Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Prologue 01

“Power does not corrupt. Fear corrupts... perhaps the fear of a loss of power.”

― John Steinbeck

October 31, 1981 - Midnight

It was wrong. All wrong, and he knew that he was not the only one in a sea of black robes who was not only angry, but disturbed and disgusted. There had always been rules in place. Even if you didn’t agree or like them, you followed the rules no matter your affiliation. Rules that all those with magic in their veins have followed since before the time of Merlin and written history.

There were magics out there that tended to get snarky and nasty when you broke the rules. Time and time again humans believed they could bend magic to their will, when in actuality it was the magic that bent humans. Humans were incredibly fragile.

A glance to his right showed immediately that he was not alone in these feelings. It needed to stop or they were all going to suffer the consequences of an insane Dark Lord.

“Lucius.”

“I know, Augustus.”

“We can’t do this.”

“I know, Augustus.”

Lucius Malfoy stood at his right. He had to be one of the prettiest men Augustus Rookwood had ever met with his ice blonde hair and aristocratic features. He was also petty, but he was not stupid. He was a smart and intelligent man. He was also a family man. Augustus quite liked the Malfoy family. He admitted to feeling envy for them and what they had that he did not. It wasn’t a hatred filled envy. He wasn’t jealous exactly. More of a warm envy. An envy to see them do well.

Before all of this, their families had been close. So close that they were basically family. They said it took a village after all. Augustus was never able to have what Lucius and many of his fellow brothers had. His first official week as an Unspeakable after finishing his Mastery studies saw to that when he was stripped of his biological ability thanks to the secret experiments that were being conducted.

As the newest member he had been forced to participate in an atrocious experiment that had been funded by the Lord of the Light, Albus Dumbledore, and many others who thought it was a good idea to come up with a way to change a man’s or woman’s fertility status. All in the name of good. When Augustus heard what they were doing, the very specific wording, and who was funding it he knew it wasn’t just about increasing fertility and the number of magical children being born. The Lord of the Light was looking for a way to curtail the number of Dark magical children being born.

However, no other Unspeakable working on the experiment would listen to his concerns. It didn’t help that the Head Unspeakable at the time was known to be in Dumbledore’s pocket and no one outside of the Department knew about these experiments. Augustus had been bound to all the oaths he took when he joined the Department of Mysteries. What happened in the experimental chambers of the Department of Mysteries stayed in the Department of Mysteries. He lost everything that day when the experiment ‘failed’ and was never able to regain what he’d lost. He had been forced to touch things that should not have been touched. The only comfort he had was that it affected the Light Lord too. All who were there the day of the failed experiment were effectively sterilized.

Augustus knew that tonight too was going to have lasting consequences. You wouldn’t see them right away, but in about ten years it was going to be apparent and it was going to terrify a community who were already shunned and ostracized for simply existing.

“What can we do?” Even one of the Dark Lord’s most staunchest followers leaned over to ask. Theodore Nott the II was another lucky man, though he didn’t know it like Lucius knew it. He took for granted what he had and what many people were never likely to get, but he was also not stupid.

Contrary to popular belief, they were not all zealots. It was only in the last ten years that things had begun to take a turn for the worst. For both sides. No one was innocent. Everyone was at a fault. Augustus just knew that in the coming years that there was going to be a hefty price to pay for breaking such intimate rules.

“Xeno walked away after looking up.” That didn’t surprise Augustus. Xeno was always paying attention to Astronomy, reading the planets and stars in the same way centaurs could. He wasn’t sure, but he wouldn’t have been surprised if Xeno had centaur blood in him.

“If something isn’t done we are all going to pay a price. Everyone. Not just us. We are breaking every law of magic that has ever been laid. We are about to destroy the very foundation of magic. We are betraying it.”

“What would you have us do then?” asked Lucius. “I’m all for it if you have a plan.”

“All I can think of right now, Lucius, is praying to magic and our ancestors because if we stand here and do nothing at all, we won’t be an ancestor to anyone. Pray that magic will show us the way.” If Augustus was among friends only he’d likely rake a hand through his loose black curls in frustration. However, given the fact they were in a public place with men who did not belong among their social circle kept him from the action. All high society Purebloods followed the same protocol rules, the most important boiled down to restraint when not with your family and allies. Restraint in public because the public expects perfection from Noble and Ancient families even if they argue against it. Unfortunately for Augustus, Lucius, and a few others it meant that even when in the presence of the Dark Lord, who was nothing more than a poor Halfblood, they could not be their true selves.

It was a grim reality they had found themselves in, but no one doubted Augustus’ advice. None except for their Dark Lord who had dabbled in bending the laws of magic, believing himself to be above them. In the end, he became cut from the very same cloth as the Lord of the Light, and no one knew what they were fighting for anymore.

It was a clear dark Samhain night. So clear that you could see the pearly shadows of Muggle ghosts and magic dancing and playing through the tombstones that were stuck up from the ground like teeth. The moon was near to full but the stars weren’t overshadowed by the glow. Augustus may not have Xeno’s skills in reading the skies, but he still knew it was bad to be here. If he could leave he would. There were twenty-four men in black robes gathered around, most had shed their masks because in a graveyard this full of magic there was nowhere to hide. Thankfully wives, heirs, and other family members were not forced to participate in this; were not forced to go against everything they are. Xeno was lucky in being able to leave before the magic rose and locked them all there. Augustus already knew the numbers the Dark Lord had insisted on being there was vital to whatever ritual he planned. The ritual called for thirty with three sacrifices. Three, seven, and their multiples were magically charged numbers. Anyone who took Arithmancy knew that.

The graveyard was encircled by a tall stone wall that was well aged and starting to crumble. Godric’s Hollow cemetery was older than the village itself. It sat next to an old style Cathedral. Most Light wizards and witches nowadays tended to gravitate toward the Christian religion brought in by the Muggleborns, forsaking their long held belief in magic and everything it brings. Believe it or not, religion was not an entirely Muggle idea or concept. Muggles had corrupted religion and blood beliefs over the centuries to the point where anyone with thick enough magical blood would no longer tolerate it. Muggles burned down everything good. Everything strong until there was nothing left but ashes and smoke. It was Helga Hufflepuff who had the Cathedral to Magic built. You could see the likeness of her work if you were magical and smart enough to do so. But now, it was overrun and taken over by the filth of Muggles’ one god religion.

They were crowded around the tombstones of three men long since dead, three brothers buried near each other. The Dark Lord had committed to the prophecy told to the Lord of the Light, overheard by Severus Snape. These three dead men were supposedly the main component for the ritual the Lord of the Dark planned in order to overcome it.

Dark and Light Lords were a special phenomenon. It all had to do with Ancient Magics and their rights. Even now, with so much knowledge gained they still didn’t understand Ancient Magic to its fullest. Texts explaining Ancient Magic were lost if there had been any at all. Merlin was not the ‘founder’ of Ancient Magic. He was simply the first wizard that they knew of to possess the ability to use it in Britain along with his counterpart Morgana. She was known as the Dark Lady while he was the Light Lord. Titles that had been documented by multiple magical families. The first born on British soil.

None of that history mattered now. What mattered was that the current Dark Lord was Tom Riddle, who insisted on being called Lord Voldemort, and the Light Lord was Albus Dumbledore. With the way magic tended to work - at least the modern magic they had today - Dark and Light were polar opposites. Those who were inherently Dark leaned toward the Dark and those inherently Light leaned toward the Light, drawn inexplicably to their respective lords. It shouldn’t have been about fighting, about trying to rule one over the other. It should be about maintaining balance.

Unfortunately, somewhere along the way that balance began to tip and now it had disappeared completely because both sides had lost their way. Dark and Light Lords were supposed to be guides, they were supposed to be the leaders and rally their followers. They were supposed to be a source that allowed magic in its truest and rawest form to flourish. They were supposed to keep the sanctity of magic pure and prevent it from crumbling.

It was like a house of cards and Augustus had the nastiest feeling that tonight that house of cards was going to crash down.

Even the wind knew that something was wrong because it’d gone still. A thread of heavy magic that was neither Light nor Dark started to creep around them. It caused each of the men in that graveyard to shudder involuntarily.

There was a bitter taste on their tongues as they felt the arrival of their Dark Lord. They heard the giggles and insane laughter of his second in command, Bellatrix Lestrange nee Black, and the sniveling groveling of the sycophantic Halfblood, Peter Pettigrew. So the whispered rumors were true, Pettigrew had betrayed the Light side and gave up the location of the hidden Potter family in hopes of rising in society. The man wanted to raise the Pettigrew family from their place among the commoners to join the circles of the Noble and Ancient families.

As soon as he saw the three together Augustus knew. He knew when those in the circle all dropped their chins to their chest that they were all praying and pleading to magic, not showing deference to the current Dark Lord. This was not the way magical blood was supposed to be spilled. It was a corrupt parody of the blood rituals Purebloods and those following the Dark practiced.

His magic no longer tasted right. No longer called to them. It didn’t kiss them or breathe a different kind of energy through any of them. You did not have to be smart or intelligent to feel how wrong all this was. You could be as lame as a flobberworm and still know.

Two bodies were floating after the three figures. Augustus could see the spill of crimson hair hovering by the end of the Dark Lord’s wand. He was the tallest and most imposing figure of the three. He stood in the middle, face taut and gaunt as his ancestors. His visage had corrupted over the years with more and more rituals and magics that were too vulgar to explain.

His only comfort in that moment was when he saw Rodolphus following a few steps behind the floating bodies, holding a bundle in his arms very carefully. You could see in the way he moved that he was unhappy. He did not agree to this, but he was in an even more of a bad spot than all of them combined. His wife was the Dark Lord’s right hand, and most desperate and loyal follower. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for his cause or goals. Rodolphus was probably the most unlucky man of them all, tied up in a contract that he could never be free from. Walburga Black had made sure of that when she killed her own father, Pollux, to take over the Black family Lordship. The one person who would have been able to break the contract without shaming the Lestrange family killed before Rodolphus could make the petition.

“My dear followers, I thank you for your loyalty and coming out tonight to witness a momentous occasion that will bring the Dark to the center.” His voice was like an ice cube running down their spine combined with a razor sharpness that was on the edge of piercing them. “All of you are about to see magic as it truly is… and you will be rewarded for your sustained loyalty.”

A flick of his wand and the two floating unconscious figures were brought down upon the bed of graves. Both of them were covered in bruises, but they were not bloodied. They were not allowed to be bled until the moment of sacrifice.

Augustus saw half of Bellatrix’s face had been blown off and partially caved in. From the blackness on the red haired woman’s hand and fingers, it was likely that Lily Potter had done the damage.

It was because of that blasted Prophecy that they were all where they were today. Augustus had advised the Dark Lord to leave it alone. He hadn’t been the only one either. He knew that others in the circle with him had also advised Riddle to ignore it. Prophecies only activated if the ones they were about decided to act on them. If anyone mentioned in a prophecy actively ignored it or did the opposite then it was mute. Magical prophecies only showed a possibility after all, not a certainty.

James Potter had always been suspected of having traces of Ancient Magic. It’d been talked about extensively due to his direct bloodline ancestor, Ignotus Peverell. Except it never showed up in the Gryffindor. For all intents and purposes James Potter was completely average, but Augustus knew that even average blood was still magic blood. The Potters may have been Light affiliated but when Dorea Black had married into the family and had Henry they had shifted the family magics from firmly Light. Augustus and other Dark Purebloods had heard that Cygnus Black the II had hoped to shift the Potters towards the Dark. Henry had unfortunately married a Light witch, as did their son, Fleamont. James Potter, Henry’s grandson and Dorea’s great-grandson, was firmly still Light affiliated and the first Potter in three generations to not marry a Light affiliated magical. Pollux Black, Dorea’s eldest brother and Sirius Black’s grandfather had hoped that with Sirius breaking from the family and becoming close friends with James would be another chance to pull the Potters to the Dark, but Walburga had ruined those plans.

James Potter’s robes were singed and one side of his face looked as though a wolf had gone berserk. Augustus hoped that someone from Fenrir’s pack hadn’t been involved tonight. He had nothing personally against Fenrir and his werewolves, but the wolf strain being introduced into this ritual the Dark Lord insisted on would only spell further trouble.

Voldemort stood there untouched and unbothered. There was not a scratch on him but Pettigrew was bleeding profusely from one arm that looked to be hanging a bit too low. Upon further inspection, Augustus saw that the shoulder had been disjointed. Likely what happened was Bellatrix and Pettigrew attacked and when James’ back was turned, dealing with Pettigrew, Voldemort caught the man from behind. From rumors he had heard while at Hogwarts, James had been average in every class but Transfiguration. The one thing he had going for him was his craftiness. He’d had the luck of the devil. It was like nothing could touch him. The move was quite underhanded for a Dark Lord who was supposed to be the most powerful Dark Lord.

Augustus’ eyes searched the row of black and noted that he was not the only one piecing it together. It meant that the Dark Lord was not as confident in his power as he should have been. It also meant that maybe magic wasn’t either or magic was on the edge of abandoning him and this is why he was doing this. He was convinced that the Prophecy was to blame and he had to do something to stop it.

“Crouch, lay the runes.” Another zealot. Barty Crouch Jr seemed to move out from the shadows as he left his place in the circle of Death Eaters. A grin that matched Bellatrix’s was on his face as Barty Crouch Jr used his wand to begin laying the rune foundation for the ritual. The man may have been a zealot but he had gained a Runes Mastery before falling under Voldemort’s hold.

No one else bothered to move, everyone kept their heads slightly bowed. Raised just enough to be defiant, but not to be noticed. Augustus watched as Crouch Jr slowly created a circle, starting from the north going clockwise, runes being drawn in white upon the ground as he went. He then moved inside of it and formed a triangle whose points came to within a millimeter of the circle but didn’t touch it, moving slowly to ensure straight lines. When he moved before Augustus and Lucius before going back to the start, Augustus tried to read the few near him without moving closer to the circle. Unfortunately, the runes were upside down to him and he had a hard time reorganizing them in his mind. If he had parchment and a quill he could have figured out what the ritual circle was going to do. Voldemort had only told them the basics of the ritual and the desired outcome, but not what would occur during it.

It was only the petrifying fear of being cursed by the Dark Lord that kept them all in their place and prevented them from moving, daring to breathe, or voice a protest. No one mentioned their missing member.

Before the ritual could even begin, Augustus felt a warning buzz like a swarm of hornets start as soon as the final rune was laid. It circled around his head, stinging into his ears. Warning him against being here willingly. He continued his prayers to magic silently.

Once the circle of runes had been completed it lit up. The verve was shining white and Lily Potter was placed at one point of the verve with James Potter at another. Augustus noticed Severus Snape shuffle from his place in the circle behind a few followers so that he was closer to Lily. He wondered if Lucius was correct in his worry that the man still loved the Muggleborn and would do anything for her. Given the man was marginally Dark affiliated and Lucius’ son’s godfather, a title of great honor considering he was neither Noble nor Pureblooded, Augustus understood how much Lucius wanted to be wrong. Wanted to believe that the man he had introduced into their circles, claiming he wanted to work towards reclaiming the honor the Prince family lost because of his mother, would not be easily swayed by the Light. With a gesture at the very end point closest to where Augustus stood with Lucius and Theodore, Voldemort turned to Rodolphus and ordered, “put the child at the final point.”

Only a fraction of hesitancy could be seen by the keen observer as Rodolphus moved forward with the child in his arms. He was wrapped in a blue knitted blanket and all Augustus could see was a mop of fine dark hair. He could feel a thread of Lucius’ anger next to him. No doubt this was hitting him harder than everyone else considering this child was nearly the exact same age as his own infant son, Draco, who was born a month before the Potter heir.

Just because they were Dark wizards did not mean they were cold and heartless. That was an entirely fabricated stereotype. They may not always use their emotions to make decisions and more often than not used hard logic, but this - this was atrocious because if it was successful then all the life in the magical child’s body would vanish and he would essentially burn up from the inside out.

Based on the runes and the verve lines of magic, Augustus theorized that Voldemort was planning to stand in the middle. While he may not have been a Runes Master like Crouch, having gone for a Masteries in Arithmancy and History, he had done well in the class while at Hogwarts, getting Os in his OWLs and NEWTs for the class.

Voldemort planned to sacrifice each of the elder Potters, causing the blood to run down the verve and flow toward the Potter child before he killed the boy. Voldemort would essentially consume the child’s and both the parents’ magic. The child was the lightning rod because he, like all infant magical children, was pure magic.

His breath stopped when he realized that Voldemort was actually planning on committing line theft. Augustus’ mind raced through arithmetic equations. A Dark Lord committing line theft on a Light affiliated family was going to create a giant clash of magic.

Stiffly Rodolphus crouched before where Augustus stood and looked up at him. The man was looking for some sign that he wouldn’t actually have to partake in this ritual. Unfortunately, Augustus hadn’t figured out a way to get himself out yet. At his subtle headshake to Rodolphus, Augustus could see the man swallow as he worked to mask his horror and distaste of the situation. He didn’t just drop the child down as Bella would have. Instead, he carefully sat him down. As soon as he did, Augustus could see that the child was awake.

Bellatrix made a disgusting cooing sound, moving closer, when the child wobbled, sitting up and looking around, the blanket fell loosely around the child. He’d specifically been placed with his back turned from his parents and they could see him clearly. The child looked up at all of them in curiosity.

He heard Lucius muttering low in French at his side, saying a prayer to magic.

“Get away from him!” Rodolphus snarled, snapping his fingers around Bellatrix’s extended wrist and throwing her out of the rune circle. “You taint the Dark Lord’s line with your blood or skin he won’t be pleased.” Augustus knew that wasn’t the reason he was yanking her away from the child.

“Indeed,” said Voldemort, glaring at the woman.

“So sorry, my Lord… I just want to be up close and personal to watch the fireworks!” Her eyes bulged wide.

“Stay on the other side of the tomb, Bella,” he ordered, gesturing her to stand behind where James Potter was laid.

“Yes, my Lord!”

The child couldn’t speak, likely he’d been silenced. He looked like he was making noises from his mouth. Poor child, Augustus thought. A sudden thought hit him like a high speed broom. “My Lord,” he stepped forward a fraction at that moment, arousing his fellow men, and making Bellatrix sneer at him.

“Yes, Rookwood?” Voldemort hissed in warning.

“You might want to remove the silencer from the child. If any other magic interferes with your ritual…” He didn’t know why he was suggesting this. It was typically not true. A silencer wouldn’t do anything. Just like the magical binds on Lily and James Potter would do nothing. But the Dark Lord was if nothing else, paranoid. “It could be catastrophic.”

The Dark Lord smiled coldly at him. “Your eye for detail never disappoints me, Rookwood,” he said pleased. “Rodolphus, remove the silencer.”

“Yes, my Lord.”

Augustus took one step back, watching the child looking around and then up and around as if he was fascinated with something. A quiet child. He wasn’t crying at all. He should be screaming and squalling, even if silenced, and wondering why his parents weren’t responding to him. He should be scared. Augustus was man enough to feel scared for the child. Feel the horror that a child could never understand.

Rodolphus removed the silencer. “Stay like a good boy,” he patted the child on the head and removed himself from between the lines. He came to stand between Augustus and Theodore. “What was that about the silencer?” Rodolphus asked him in a whisper. “I may not be an Unspeakable but even I know that it wouldn’t do anything to the ritual.”

Augustus shook his head slightly, “later.” He was thankful that Rodolphus and the others didn’t push for more. He didn’t have a great answer in anycase. Just a gut magical feeling. “Just continue praying to magic. Magic is listening.”

“Shiny…” the child babbled looking around as he brought his fingers up to his mouth to chew on. He stretched out his other hand and pointed in the air. “Shiny…”

“Barty, Peter. You know your positions. You are to bleed the Potters at the exact same time. Not a second sooner and not a second later, do you understand?”

“Yes, my Lord,” they chorused simultaneously.

“I wanna do it, I wanna do it!” Bellatrix bounced up and down behind the tombstone she’d been ordered to stand behind.

“I need delicacy, Bella and you have far too many injuries.”

She pouted, but said nothing as she rocked forward eagerly.

That was when Voldemort disrobed completely. In the naked light of the mostly full moon, Augustus could see the lack of humanity like an armor surrounding the man. He was chalk white from head to toe with a scattering of blue veins. It did not look porous like a human’s skin. It was not silky soft or smooth, but like leather that had been stretched over a canvas and then heavily bleached. He stepped forward into the center of the circle. He brought a silver knife to his wrists and made a slit, one on each side and then nodded sharply at both Peter and Crouch.

Peter seized James by the back of the neck. Crouch had grabbed Lily by her hair, forcing both of them up to where they were almost sitting.

The baby by now was clapping and reaching for the soft dewy grass and pulling on the clovers. He was intent on something on the ground. Likely a beetle or a bug. He was giggling and in a world of his own. Augustus still didn’t know why he insisted that the child be unsilenced. Maybe it was for their own punishment because they deserved it for just standing around. All of them were too weak to do anything. They could not stand against the Dark Lord. He had all of them by the throat. He had tainted them all with magic that was not Dark, but something else entirely. Augustus hesitated on using the word evil. It was such an overused term and it had lost its meaning a long time ago, but it wasn’t far off.

“Shiny, shiny…” the child kept repeating as he started to place bits of the grass he had pulled up around himself.

Power flowed like air and breathed life into the still and silent cemetery. It began to raise all the fine hairs on their skin causing them to stand up straight and at attention. Lily and James Potter’s blood had been spilt at the same time as ordered and they fell to the side as the blood began to rush out of them. A hush of familiar Light magic burned the night at the edges. A part of Augustus noted that Pettigrew had cut deeper into James than Crouch had done on Lily. It was unlikely going to affect the ritual, but it did mean that James bled out at a faster rate.

Lord Voldemort was chanting a ritual in a language that he couldn’t identify. It sounded more made up. Like Latin, Greek, and Parseltongue mixing in a way that should not have been possible.

As the power bloomed, Augustus watched fascinated as the blood raced down the lines as if it was being guided. Moving where the runes demanded. It ran too fast, too hot as the heat began to rise with every syllable that Lord Voldemort enchanted. It was heading right to the child who suddenly leaned back to look around before he let out a sound, slapping his small hands into the ground at the same moment that the bloodlines connected with him.

“SHINY!”

“What-!?” It was all they heard from the Dark Lord before the magic built so fast and hot like a spill of lava then exploded.

The child screamed and Augustus reacted as if someone had possessed his body. He snatched the toddler at the same time that the magic made full contact.

“NO!”

“My Lord!”

All of the world lit up, blinding them all. Then the magic dropped the temperature to a freezing point as Lord Voldemort screamed.

Augustus tried to shield the child who was now screaming in real terror. Everyone else fell back or dropped to their knees as the pressure of the magic built and built until it filled the circle and the graveyard. He could feel something pulsing at the terrified toddler who gripped at him, squalling for his parents.

“We gotta get outta here…” Rodolphus somewhere through the haze of magic and power screamed out. “Augustus!”

The Dark Lord was continuing to scream, but they couldn’t see him. It was like the magic was blinding them all. Nothing but a white wall of pure magic. There was nothing to see. No sense of smell. Nothing except for sound and a pressure that compounded into their ears and made the insides drum on the verge of bleeding.

Then it was over. As fast as it came and as long as it seemed to last, it was over in a flash. All their senses came rushing back too quickly. When they could see again, none could be sure that what they saw could be truly explained.

Lord Voldemort was dead. His whole body had been burnt to a crisp within the triangle of power. Within the circle Lily and James Potter were still, prone and bleeding, and then there was the child.

Augustus rocked back and let go of him, lowering him back to the ground and drawing back enough to see the child passed out though he looked unharmed. A soft glow seemed to emit from him and on his forehead, beneath the jet black hair, was a small little scar. A lightning bolt.

That wasn’t all. Augustus realized that he was kneeling deep in a magic that he could feel but could not see. He felt as if his knees were in a puddle of water and he knew from the records that Ancient Magic could show up in those who possess the capability to wield it like a small glow or something shiny. It would shine like silver raindrops. He’d seen images and art of such a phenomenon in his family vaults but truly seeing it was something else entirely.

“We have to go! Bring the child,” Lucius was suddenly right there. Augustus didn’t hesitate while the confusion and chaos spread quickly. “Rodolphus! Theodore! Oberon! Where are Morpheus and Callum?”

“We’re with you.”

Augustus scooped the small delicate child back into his arms and he felt Lucius’ hand grab his robes, helping to direct him backwards. The handful of them backed away from the chaotic sea of black robes that surrounded the circle. Augustus’ eyes narrowed when he saw Severus rushing to Lily Potter’s side in the confusion, wand firing spells towards the witch while cradling her body close. Bellatrix ran for Voldemort and Pettigrew shifted into a rat before running off. He lost track of Crouch Jr but it was clear that others were apparating out, getting as far from the failed ritual as they could. Who knows who will show up with the blast of magic that occurred. Someone shot an Avada Kedavra across the circle that hit a random gravestone. Augustus could only suppose the purpose was to try and confuse what happened there tonight, the killing curse not only killed living humans and animals but the magic ate through atmospheric magic along its path. He kept backing up, smudging some the runes as he moved, watching the scene, and trying to capture as much information as he possibly could before he turned and apparated a second after Lucius let him go with coordinates whispered in his ear.

Chapter Text

Prologue 02

“Any fool can know. The point is to understand.”

― Albert Einstein

Augustus paced through his shock. A good pace always helped to calm the racing thoughts and scattered mind. His ears were still ringing and his eyes ached as if he’d been staring straight into the sun’s core. The small toddler was pressed to his chest. His blanket had been long since lost. He was wearing a blue pajama set with brown rabbits on it. He had a hood with rabbit ears attached to it, but was not wearing the hood.

He had followed Lucius and the others to one of the many safe houses that was lodged and nestled smack in the middle of Muggle suburbia. It was a brilliant place because who in their right mind would ever expect Lucius to have a property in a heavy Muggle population? Not a single soul.

Just because they did not like or approve of Muggles did not mean they couldn’t take advantage of them. It did not mean they completely ignored the advances and usefulness they’ve made over the centuries. Lucius owned tons of businesses and had investments all over the map. At the end of the day money was gold and gold was money. It didn’t matter who’s hand it was exchanging. Goblins appreciated any strong and smart magical who was able to increase their gold entrusted to Goblin care at Gringotts and Lucius was one of their favorites.

The property they were currently in was over top of some Muggle business called a dry cleaners. Lucius didn’t own the shop but he did own the building and didn’t care what business wanted to use the bottom space as long as it paid rent.

The room they were in was basic. The windows overlooked the street and all the furniture was thick, brown, and chunky. Those with a good eye for detail could pick out the luxury and refinement about the space but it was literally a hole in the wall with a bedroom, one bathroom, and a kitchenette attached to the sitting space.

It was a damn fine night when every single man that filled the space of the room was utterly silent. Rodolphus had fallen into the thick leather armchair and sagged down in the most improper fashion, legs splayed open, without a care in the world. Luckily he was among friends. He had yet to remove his robes and sweat was trickling down his face. His long dark brown hair looked almost matted where it was tied at his neck, stray hairs clinging to his face and neck.

Theodore had taken up against a wall. He was a tall too thin man who looked like he’d been stretched as a teenager and never went back to normal. His hair was very short and pale straw in color. His eyes were light, a trait that passed down to his son, Theodore Nott the III, from what Augustus could recall. He’d removed his black cloak and it lay across the black walnut coffee table.

Propped on the sofa at an angle was Oberon Montague. A member of the Italian Sacred Twenty, his family had migrated to Britain during his fifth year of schooling. Oberon’s father had been the second eldest son and received permission from the family lord to move his family to Britain and start building ties with Britain's Sacred families. His skin was a dark mocha and his hair was just as dark. Augustus could never decide if he was good looking or not. He had all the features to be good looking, but somehow wasn’t completely there. Augustus wasn’t sure how the man’s son, Graham, who was now three would turn out, but the boy seemed to be taking after his father more than his African heritage witch mother, Tatiana.

Seated beside him was Morpheus Flint. A large stocky duck footed man with eyes too dark for his light skin and his hair just as dark. Morpheus’s four year old son Marcus was unfortunate in inheriting the duck footedness. Sitting on the arm of the couch, because there was no room between Morpheus and Oberon, was Callum Warrington. He was tall, handsome, and he knew it. He wasn’t pretty like Lucius, but handsome in the masculine way that many teen boys hoped to one day be but never manage to get to. His face was strong and sturdy. His jaw chiseled and the only thing that might detract from his image was the fact that he was blind in his left eye. You’d never know it though, he hid it well. He had a tiny scar below and above his eye. He often wore a colored lens over the eye so that you couldn’t see the empty whiteness. Callum’s son Cassius was likely to copy his father as well in looks but had his mother’s eyes. The boy was often seen with Marcus and Graham and it wasn’t a surprise to anyone considering their families were close and long time allies even with Oberon only moving countries recently. Everyone who was anyone had properties on the Continent and spent time there forging ties with their Continental counterparts. At least the Dark affiliated families did.

Lucius swept through after sealing the door shut. “Where is Rabastan?” he asked, plucking a bottle of scotch from a nearby cabinet.

“Muggle scotch?” Theodore sneered.

“No magic here,” said Lucius. “Everything is Muggle. I have no doubt that our magic is now tainted after that. If we so much as cast the wrong spell we’ll have a team of Aurors breaking through every magical barrier I have, which is not much. I figure the less the better in a Muggle world.”

“Probably best after tonight,” said Morpheus.

“I’ll get the glasses,” said Callum, in understanding.

“Rabastan was ordered to keep watch at the Longbottoms,” said Rodolphus, unhappily. “They were the backup plan if the Potters hadn’t worked out. Albert and Wallace are with him, so they don’t know shit yet.” Albert and Wallace, Lord Pucey and Lord Higgs respectively, were the only other members of their family group within the Dark Lord’s ranks where not all could be trusted. All of their families had generations-long alliances as Noble and Ancient Houses in the British Sacred Twenty-Eight.

Augustus was still pacing. Normally, by now someone would have told or begged him to stop. He often annoyed his friends with his pacing, especially during exam periods at Hogwarts, but not one uttered a word.

Callum brought back the glasses and Lucius poured drinks for everyone. Augustus shook his head and left his where it was on the table as everyone took a shot at the same time. It didn’t have the kick of Firewhiskey or other magical drinks, but Augustus could tell that it was probably top shelf quality. Muggle or not. Lucius Malfoy would always be Lucius Malfoy.

Lucius’ cold gray eyes softened when he looked at Augustus or rather the child in his arms. “Shall I contact Cissa?”

“No,” said Augustus. His mouth had spoken before his brain could catch up.

“Is he hurt?” asked Callum solemnly.

“Not as far as I’m aware. Just scared,” said Augustus. He was afraid of pulling the child away from his chest, that he’d wake up. “He didn’t start screaming until the magic became too hot.”

“I’ve never heard of a quiet child,” said Morpheus, blinking at the child. “Mine certainly wasn’t quiet like him at that age. Did they give him something?”

“I doubt it. I was ordered to silence him when we left the house.” Rodolphus stated. “There wasn’t time for any of them to touch him let alone give him anything.”

“Well then, I have a question. What the bloody fuck happened?” asked Theodore, pushing off the wall and stealing Augustus’ ignored drink.

Everyone went quiet at that. No one was sure how to answer that.

“Augustus?”

Augustus was used to being the smartest man in the room. Even the Dark Lord showed him a bit more leeway than Bellatrix and Crouch Jr would have liked because of that. It made him invaluable and nearly indispensable. One couldn’t become an Unspeakable by being dumb after all.

It was quiet as Augustus continued to pace the room, but his strides were getting smaller which meant his mind was starting to piece together the puzzle of the night.

“To be honest, I didn’t know what I was hoping for when I suggested he be unsilenced. But… we all know that the Dark Lord believed the Potters had Ancient Magic.”

“So do the Longbottoms,” said Rodolphus.

“Yes,” he nodded. “I don’t know what possessed me to do it. But, when I was covering the child I felt the distinct traces of Ancient Magic.” It was a secret that all the men in the room were aware of, the Rookwood family was one of the first in the British Isles to access Ancient Magic after Merlin. They all knew Augustus was sensitive to it because of that legacy within his family blood. “You remember him being fascinated by something that was shiny?”

“I thought he’d seen a bug or was looking at the stars,” said Lucius.

“I think he was seeing the Ancient Magical wells that sometimes show up. The Dark Lord was calling on strong magic on top of the graves of the Peverells’. He was using the Potters’ magic, and even if James Potter was average and could not access Ancient Magic he still has traces of it in his bloodline. It’s there. The Dark Lord did the one thing that we have all agreed was treacherous and wrong above all else and that is line theft. The runes Crouch Jr was laying all pointed towards that being the goal of the ritual. It wasn’t just killing them, it was taking their magic and family magics.”

Everyone rippled in shudders and disgust. Line thieving had been one of their biggest issues against the Muggles and the Muggleborns encroaching in the magical world. Their blood and lines were sacred to them. It was more than just legacy and magic. It was more than anything in this world.

“And we were too weak to do a damn thing about it,” said Callum darkly. “Everything we’ve fought for. Everything we have tried to gain over the last century has been wiped out by that ritual. Gone.”

Augustus stopped his pacing and turned to face them. “I fully believe that the Dark Lord was no longer a Dark Lord at the start of the ritual. If he could not see the magic beneath this child, then he no longer had the power to be called a Dark Lord. Instead of absorbing the Potters’ magic, the child absorbed him. A person cannot just walk around with no soul after all. You could consider him a dead man walking.”

“So he is dead?” Theodore asked.

However none of them knew for sure. Crouch Jr was smart enough to have been able to do something to save him if he could. Pettigrew and Bellatrix Lestrange were not. As the three closest magicals they would have had the best chance of saving him if anyone did. It was doubtful however considering the state of the body and how everyone scattered.

“You told everyone to pray,” said Lucius quietly, looking into his renewed glass of scotch. “I prayed. I prayed to magic to save her Dark children from the corrupt.” He hesitated and then said. “I also prayed to save the child in your arms.”

Each man nodded and agreed that they had all been praying. Praying to magic because they were useless weak humans who could do nothing against the curse the Dark Lord laid on them. They were all grateful that their wives and heirs were safe at home, away from the insane ritual. Well, Rodolphus had probably been praying that his wife would die during the ritual. Augustus couldn’t know for sure, but given their loveless marriage he wouldn’t put it past the man whose wife preferred Voldemort’s bed to his own.

“What does this mean?” Rodolphus asked. “For all of us?”

Once again, no one knew. There were a lot of questions and no answers.

“I need to go wash the swamp off of me,” said Rodolphus, getting up and ripping the cloak from his body. He tossed it aside irritably and was left in nothing but a white t-shirt and black slacks. He passed by Augustus who reached out and grabbed his arm.

“Where’s your mark!?” Augustus noted instantly seeing the tanned skin clear and unmarred. Everyone got to their feet as Rodolphus looked down.

Callum let out a curse. “It’s gone!”

At that, everyone but Augustus rolled up their sleeves or shed their cloaks to check their arms. Everyone’s mark had vanished. Not faded, not sunk into the skin or hidden by magic. It was completely and utterly gone. It was like it’d never been there. As if it had been dirt and washed away. Augustus’ hands were too full to check himself as all the men stood around in a sudden silence.

“He’s dead,” said Lucius. “Truly dead. Surely there’s no other way for it to be gone.”

“I think so…”

“We were all seeped in the overflow of that magic being closest to the child,” said Augustus. “Even if we were on the outside of it. We were there. James Potter’s ancient blood, his son’s ancient blood, the Peverells’ magic…We all know that fresh new blood sometimes jolts the old dying blood awake.”

“You got the most of it,” said Rodolphus, rubbing at his arm and he wasn’t the only one. “I don’t feel him in my head.” Hadn’t that been the whole problem in the first place? The one thing that made them weak? His mark had forced them into compliance. Him and his magic had been all over them, burned into their skin. It was more than a tattoo, more than a call sign. It had magic in it that could sometimes be called upon. It was a rich and addicting magic. A magic that should not have been played with. It was one of many reasons that the Dark Lord was so alluring. If you took his mark you would have some of his magic. At least that was how it appeared and how it was presented.

Now it was gone.

“It’s too early to tell for sure,” said Theodore, shaking his head. “Let’s not jump to conclusions.”

Rodolphus headed off to wash himself down and Augustus finally sat in the armchair that Rodolphus had vacated. He adjusted the toddler until the child was in the crook of his arm, laying on his back. He looked fast asleep. The scar on his forehead was a stark red. Augustus had almost forgotten about it with everything else going on. He brushed a finger along it as Lucius leaned forward over the chair, blond hair falling over his shoulder, to examine the child. “Is that a mark?”

“It is. It doesn’t feel insidious. I don’t think he became one of Voldemort’s Horcruxes. There probably wasn’t enough of the man’s soul left to create another.”

“That could have happened?” Callum asked, leaning around to look at Augustus.

“Sometimes. It shouldn’t, but magic is magic. This child is the purest form of magic and so when all the magic backfired, it raced to the most precious source to cling to.”

“He is precious. He’s a child. We all made vows never to harm a child, be it a Light child or not,” said Lucius. “It was in our contracts.”

“Honor was never something the Dark Lord cared about,” Theodore sneered.

“He’s not a Dark Lord anymore. He wasn’t when he stepped into that circle,” Augustus reminded. “Otherwise he would have known and seen that ancient swell of magic.”

“So we are without a Leader of the Dark?” Oberon asked.

“Can’t you feel it?” Augustus asked in return. “Feel the pull, slight as it is?”

“The child is the new Dark Lord.” Lucius stated in awe.

“How can that be? He’s a Potter! They’re a Light family.” Morpheus shifted on the couch, trying to get a better look at the baby.

“Could it have been the ritual and the child taking Voldemort’s magic?” Callum asked, looking at Augustus for an answer. “Could that have changed his affinity enough to become the new Dark Lord upon reaching his magical maturity?”

Augustus shook his head as he looked at the sleeping boy in his arms. “I’m not positive, I do not know how magic chooses its Lords and Ladies, but I cannot deny that the calmer I get the more my magic draws me to him.”

“It matters not,” said Lucius. “Whether he is or is not in the future doesn’t matter. What matters is he’s an innocent child caught up in a game that never should have happened. This ritual never should have been thought about. We all know the consequences when you handle volatile magics.”

“Especially if you don’t deserve that magic,” said Augustus. “If he has the natural Ancient Magic of his bloodline perhaps that was what the prophecy was referring to all along when it mentioned ‘power the Dark Lord knows not’. ‘Neither can live while the other survives.’ Only one Lord can exist at a time. We’ve all known this.”

“What do we do with him?” asked Morpheus. “We’ve kidnapped him.”

“His parents are dead. How can you kidnap a child that has no parents?” Oberon snorted.

“If we produce him there are going to be questions about how we got him. How we found him and it won’t take long for them to realize we were all there.” Theodore stated. “Marks gone or not, by being associated with that ritual we will all be thrown into Azkaban.”

It was the question wasn’t it? Subconsciously Augustus rocked the child, observing the sleeping face. He sure was cute.

“Blood adoption,” said Lucius, who had been running a finger along the child’s forehead where the mark rested. He probably didn’t even realize he’d been doing it.

“Blood adoption? To who? Sirius Black is his godfather, but he’ll take the child straight to Dumbledore. While he may have a tie to the Black family because of that the only one we could trust with him would be Narcissa and she’s busy raising your heir, Lucius. She wouldn’t have time to look after another,” said Rodolphus, coming out with a towel in his hand. None of them even considered the other Black sister who shunned her family and heritage when she married a middle class Muggleborn, breaking her arranged marriage contract on the eve of what should have been her wedding.

“She would not find it a burden to have another in her arms. We were lucky to get Draco,” said Lucius. “But I fear that too many would question it considering how loudly we had announced Draco’s birth. My involvement with-” He stopped for a moment, eyes narrowed. “Riddle,” he said instead of the Dark Lord, “is tainted by association.”

It was obvious that Rodolphus had raided Lucius’ closet because he was now wearing summer robes in light blue that were just a hair short. His hair was whetted down and pinned back to the base of his neck.

“We also have to be weary of Severus,” said Lucius. He had a brief look of disappointment on his face. “I fear his allegiance has completely shifted to Dumbledore. He always loved the Muggleborn and I know he spoke to the Dark Lord about keeping her out of the ritual, offering potions and other magicals that could take her place. Not that we can truly blame him, love makes you do many things. I worry what that will mean for Draco as he is the boy’s godfather, but their association can be closely monitored and minimized.”

“I bloody can. The Light Lord is just as bad as the Dark Lord,” said Theodore in disgust. “He is fighting his personal nature siding with that man. Then again the man was a Halfblood and barely Dark affiliated. I know he was a friend to you, Lucius, but I never liked him.”

“There was nothing here that he wanted. I know he first told me his goal was to reclaim and renew his ties to the Prince family, but he stopped talking about them in sixth year. I didn’t question it then, but maybe I should have,” said Lucius. “We all have our lives and families. He had nothing but her. You cannot totally fault him for following his heart. Is that not what we are doing now?”

“Enough, whether we like the man or not he is Draco’s godfather and that can’t be changed. We’ll deal with it when needed,” said Oberon before he changed the subject. “We have always been careful, so that won’t change going forward.”

“I’ll take him,” said Augustus, surprising the room. “He will be mine. He’s not a future leader. He is currently a child, just as Lucius said. I’ve always wanted a family but it was stripped from me in the course of my work. You all know this. I also know the most about Ancient Magic. My ancestor was a keeper. I can help train him in Ancient Magic, at least provide him the resources he’ll need. I have also never been accused of being a Death Eater or having any affiliation with the Dark sect. It’s what made me so invaluable. I was considered neutral. Even on parchment I’m considered neutral.”

“Once blood adopted he will have to be hidden for at least three years,” said Lucius. “Otherwise you risk being separated.”

It was illegal to perform blood rituals in the UK. Blood adoption was an area that was incredibly gray. Most of the time if a child was blood adopted there was no question about it because blood was blood. There was a three year statute of limitation on accusing someone of performing any blood related rituals. After three years it wouldn’t matter. If the child was his through and through there was nothing even the Light Lord could do about it. It wasn’t like the Muggle world where the government could intervene and take a child away. Things didn’t work like that in the magical world no matter what side a person was on. For better or worse once a child had been adopted by blood and all the rites and rituals performed there was no breaking that. It wouldn’t change who the child’s godfather was, but would make the child his.

“Will you do it tonight?” Oberon asked.

“After that ritual? Surely you would need to wait for all the magic to settle before performing a new ritual with the child?” Morpheus looked at his friend like he was insane for suggesting it.

“Not necessarily. The magic is fresh upon the child. Performing a successful ritual right now may help settle the magic he gained tonight even faster. You may risk losing whatever he gained from tonight’s failed ritual if you don’t perform the next right away.” Oberon argued. “The main Montague family branch is full of Ritual Masters, I grew up hearing their conversations. Do the ritual tonight, Augustus, to ensure the child keeps as many of the gifts he may receive as possible.”

“Do we even have all the ingredients required for a blood adoption ritual?” Rodolphus asked, coming to look at the child in Augustus’ arms.

“I do at my manor,” Callum offered up, “there’s also a ritual room masquerading as a small ballroom. We can do it there.”

“If we’re doing this we better hurry before someone starts searching for him. Black, Snape, or Dumbledore.” Theodore stated. “At least once the ritual is completed it will be harder for Black to find the boy even if he is the godfather.”

“And later, we can come up with a plan for everything else. The other Death Eaters who are zealots in particular,” said Rodolphus. Augustus knew he was thinking of his wife. “They won’t take kindly to a child defeating their Lord. Do you think their marks disappeared as well?”

No one had an answer for the question. Did everyone lose their marks? Or only those who had prayed? Or only those near the child during the ritual? They couldn’t know for sure until they met with others.

“After the hell we’ve gone through this night we need to work really hard not to piss off magic again,” said Lucius. “We need to make amends and perhaps this little precious child can be the first of those amends.”

Action and consequences. Every Pureblood witch and wizard knew that there was always a consequence to the actions you take.

Chapter Text

Chapter One

“To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.”

― Oscar Wilde

A devious smile crawled onto his face the moment he awoke. It was a bright and sunny July morning. He was out of the bed, wrapped in a light summer robe, and running down the hall to fling open a specific set of doors. He had to hide his giggles as he backed up and made a running jump to land on the two snuggly lumps that lay sequestered beneath the emerald blankets of a large four poster bed, bed curtains open to the room.

“WAKE UP!” He yelled as he dived between the two, causing groans of protest. This was not the first time that a pair of knobby little knees had crashed into them. His laughter spilled out over the room as he shook both of them. “Up, up, up! It’s my week. It’s my week!!” He huffed as both men remained under the covers, not moving an inch. He crawled between them and went to the lump on the left, peeling back the covers. His dad was a tall strong man with a handsome face. He had a five o’ clock shadow that at one time had been a long beard but too many times it had been yanked or pulled and even once someone - not him - tried to eat it. Now his dad kept it neatly trimmed if not shaved completely.

He giggled and proceeded to rub his cheek right up against his dad’s own, enjoying the slight scratch of the beard growing in. “Daddy! Wakey, wakey! Dolphy?!” He rolled to the other man. He was slimmer, long dark brown hair that was usually clasped to the base of his neck. The man was lying on his stomach completely undressed when the layers of blankets were peeled back to his waist. Both men slept in the nude, something he himself had started trying recently with the summer being warmer than usual. He quickly agreed with them that the feel of cool sheets and duvet were great, cooling charms embedded in them or not.

Pressing his nose right up to the man’s nose he puffed hotly at him. “I’m going to give the biggest pout in all eleven years- Ahhh!” He let out a shout when he was wrapped in a big bear hug and brought to his dad’s chest.

“Hadrian, really?” Rumbled his father as the warm arms settled around him. Hadrian giggled as he tilted his black head back and rubbed his cheek to his dad’s. “You’ve done this since you were four, precious. You couldn’t give us one morning off?” His dad and friends all tended to call him ‘precious’ and had for as long as he could remember. He knew he was important to them and the nickname was their way of showing how much he meant to them. Of course they only ever called him that when with family and those they fully trusted were around.

“Yep, and I’m going to do it until I’m forty-four.”

“Least he’s loyal to the cause,” Rodolphus mumbled sleepily and Hadrian laughed some more when the man raised his head. He tended to like sleeping flat on the mattress and sheets without a pillow. He always gravitated off them like the pillows were too lumpy or something. Hadrian had to have all the pillows. The man’s name was actually Rodolphus, Rodolphus Lestrange, but Hadrian had a bugger of a time trying to say his name when he was a baby and had a habit of calling him Dolphin, once he learned about those animals, and then it shortened to Dolphy. Hadrian could say his name now, but Dolphy stuck. The man hadn’t put up too much of a fuss about it either. “Can’t fault him for consistency.”

Hadrian had once tried to call the man ‘papa’. It didn’t go well. He had been sat down by dad and had their unusual relationship explained. Yes, Rodolphus lived with them and was in a relationship with his dad since Hadrian was two, but the man was technically married to a witch named Bellatrix Lestrange nee Black. When Hadrian had then asked about her he was told that she was locked away in Azkaban prison for what she did under the Dark Lord Voldemort and the Civil War with the Light Lord Dumbledore. Rodolphus had been trying to get out of his marriage contract with her but the only way was through her death or a pardon granted by the Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Black. Her being locked away in prison didn’t remove the fact they were bound in marriage. So as much as they would all love for Rodolphus to be Hadrian’s ‘papa’ the man couldn’t be. Not yet.

This of course led into questions about the Civil War which his dad and Rodolphus had explained over the years. Hadrian knew that both of them, as well as his friends’ parents and Rodolphus’ younger brother, Rabastian, had once been followers of the Dark Lord Voldemort, but they all disagreed with the wizard’s war towards the end. They had all escaped prison time in Azkaban because they didn’t have the ‘dark mark’, something all followers of Voldemort who went to prison carried. It was really complicated and Hadrian knew he didn’t know everything, but he knew that his dad, Rodolphus, and the others were good people.

Ever since Hadrian was four, his dad and Rodolphus had started celebrating his birthday all week long instead of on a specific day. For a full week it was Hadrian’s birthday. This year’s week was extra special though, he was turning eleven years old. Hadrian James Rookwood would be getting his letter to Hogwarts and he couldn’t wait.

Cassius, Marcus, Graham, Adrian and Terry were already going to Hogwarts and Hadrian had been none too happy about Cassius and Marcus going off and leaving him behind three years ago. Terence Higgs, who insisted on being called Terry often enough that everyone did so, and Graham Montague were best friends and one year behind Adrian, Cassius and Marcus. All five were in Slytherin to no one’s surprise. Cassius Warrington and Marcus Flint however were his favorites. Just don’t tell Blaise or Draco that, they would pout. Their last friend Theo, Theodore Nott the III, was more of a bookworm then everyone else and while Hadrian enjoyed his company, he wasn’t as close to the boy as Draco was. Cassius and Marcus were big even when they were young boys. Hadrian and Draco had always been the smallest of the pack. Hadrian had once asked his dad why he was so small and was told that his birth parents weren’t all that tall.

He giggled some more when his father pinned him down to snuggle him and Rodolphus scooted closer to box him in. Hadrian knew he was blood adopted. His dad and Rodolphus had been nothing but honest with him about nearly anything that he’d asked. The blood adoption he underwent as a baby changed his Potter genetics a lot. He knew he still registered as a Potter to the Goblins in Gringotts, but many features that would point to his heritage showed his Rookwood blood. In theory he had little to none of his mother’s genetics left after the ritual, but he had been told she was a petite woman with large almond shaped emerald green eyes. From what he understood, the eyes and likely the height stuck with Hadrian during the adoption but everything else from her got replaced.

Despite the blood running through him his hair was black and wasn’t messy like the Potter’s were known to have. Instead it brushed just passed his chin in thick shiny layers that was reminiscent of his blood adopted dad, Augustus Rookwood. The coloring was said to come from his Black ancestor Dorea Potter nee Black who had raven locks. It was also so thick though that it had to be brushed a lot or it would wind around until it was a rat’s nest. Hadrian’s cheeks were a bit more sculpted like his dad’s and his skin was a startling shade of porcelain that made his eyes look even more astonishing. Rodolphus told him that he could have the award for world’s best crocodile tears if he tried with his large expressive eyes. At least Hadrian didn’t need glasses like every single Potter before him.

He liked to think that magic had blessed his blood adoption and gave his dad a much tighter connection to Hadrian than it normally would have. He knew about some of the circumstances of what had happened that night, but he wasn’t stupid enough to admit that he understood any of it. Most importantly, the fact that he used to be Harry James Potter and not Hadrian James Rookwood was a secret that everyone aware of the blood adoption was holding silent about. His dad had even got the others to swear by magic to not reveal it! His name had been altered just enough but not too far away from his original birth name. Hadrian was just glad that he didn’t become a Harper or Harrison. Or stay Harry - what a boring Muggle name.

He was days away from eleven years old and he still couldn’t fully grasp the scope of those events. His dad was a brilliant genius who just seemed to know and understand everything. He was always reading too. Hadrian was more interested in learning by seeing and experiencing things for himself.

His friends did not know of his background even though their fathers did. None of them knew about what happened that night. All of the men agreed that until Hadrian understood and was old enough to tell the story himself, no one else would know. Hadrian didn’t particularly care where he came from, he was a Rookwood and nothing was going to change that.

“Breakfast?”

“French Toast!” Hadrian chirped as he relaxed against his dad. “Streaky bacon! Tomatoes!”

“You know the elves are making him a full English. Why bother asking? He always wants a full English breakfast and French Toast during his birthday week.” Rodolphus grumbled as he snuggled in closer, completely trapping Hadrian between the two men.

“You never know, he could say something else and surprise us.” His dad mused, pressing a kiss to his head.

“Yeah and I was a Gryffindor.” Rodolphus snorted.

“Ugh, I will not have a Gryffindor in my bed. Out heathen!” Hadrian giggled as his dad started pushing Rodolphus out of the bed.

“Hpmf. I know where I’m not wanted.” Rodolphus left the bed and stretched before wandering over to where his gray robe was laying over the room settee. Grabbing the robe, the man pulled it on but didn’t bother to tie it close before he wandered towards the ensuite to start his morning routine before breakfast.

“Morning, Daddy.” Hadrian hummed as he turned to rub his cheek to his dad’s again. He loved the scratchy sensation.

“Morning, precious. Happy birthday week.” His dad pressed a kiss to his forehead over the faded lightning bolt scar that never fully disappeared no matter how much scar cream they used.

The three of them lived southwest of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade Valley near the former village of Feldcroft nestled between a giant mountain to the northeast, the Irondale mines to the east, and a large lake that surrounded the area from south and west to the north that was connected by a river to the lake on Hogwarts grounds. Hadrian hadn’t been to Hogwarts yet despite being a short carriage ride away. Rookwood Castle had been built just outside of Feldcroft village, a long long long time ago.

However, Feldcroft village no longer stood. Nothing was there. Not even ruins stood where the town used to be except for a single stone marker. It was once a small town mostly made up of witches and wizards who aligned towards the Dark but over time as the town disappeared the area flourished into rich farmlands that Rookwood Castle acquired over the generations. Hadrian had always loved exploring the vast estate and farmlands as he grew. About twenty homes had once ringed the heart of Feldcroft with a small market in the center for trading goods to and from Hogsmeade.

Now the Rookwood family property encompassed the whole region minus the Irondale mines that had been reclaimed by the Goblins at Gringotts. Lesser families that had allied themselves to the Rookwoods over the generations managed different parts of the vast property but usually lived in other areas while flooing in to work. Some took care of the farm fields and highland cows while others took care of the Feldcroft Creature Sanctuary on the far southern end of the property. Hadrian knew his dad was too busy with his work as an Unspeakable and sitting on the Wizengamot to govern such a large property on his own. He trusted those who have sworn themselves to the family to continue managing it all. Rodolphus helped a little but was also working for his father Lord Lestrange, taking on Heir Lestrange duties and being his father’s proxy in the Wizengamot whenever his father couldn’t make a session. Hadrian knew that as Heir Rookwood he’d eventually need to take his dad’s place on the Wizengamot and claim the Potter seat which has sat vacant since Fleamont Potter held it, but he was happy not worrying about it for now.

Hadrian loved visiting and seeing the highland cows they owned. Draco hated them, said they were ugly and his father’s albino peacocks were better. While the albino peacocks were pretty, Hadrian knew that their cows were more than just fluffy cute cows. They provided beef for many wizarding noble families and their beef was even sold to Hogwarts! The carcasses were given to the creature sanctuary whenever there were thestrals being cared for or sold to Hogwarts for the thestrals kept on the school grounds. According to his dad the contracts with Hogwarts for their cows and carcasses had been in place for a few centuries and could only be changed by the Rookwood Lord and the Board of Governors. A few years ago Hadrian overheard dad complaining to Lord Callum Warrington when Cassius was visiting that the current Headmaster of the school kept trying to cancel the contract and give it to a Light affiliated Pureblood family like the poor blood-traitor Weasleys. The problem with that was Hadrian knew the Weasley barely had any land now and wouldn’t be able to supply enough beef to feed more than their family, let alone a giant school like Hogwarts. Not after the family over the generations constantly intentionally broke wizarding contracts with other Pureblood families. Those breaks cost them lots of money each time they did so which led them to not being able to make other payments and more contracts being broken in a nasty cycle. On top of that, according to Pureblood family tree histories, which all noble Purebloods grow up learning, a Selwyn Pureblood witch four generations ago who married into the Weasley family even did a ritual to change her affiliation from mildly Dark to completely Light and removed all blood family ties by disowning herself once married, ending the Selwyn family line. Not to mention the Weasleys moved from their ancestral home to be closer to Muggles and abandoned their blood roots.

His dad always told him that family magic was always stronger where you were born. It’s why ancient Pureblood families tended to stay in one location for generation upon generation. Sure they had property on the Continent too and spent time there during various times of the year, which was where Hadrian had first met the Zabini family, but it was stronger where you grew up. Hadrian couldn’t imagine ever wanting to do what the Weasley family did. He loved his dad and the family he had too much.

It’s why similarly aligned Pureblood families tended to group together and form communities of support. Also why Muggles and Muggleborns were looked down upon so heavily. They had no alignment to connect with, not even a Neutral alignment, but they were willing to leave home and move far away without a single care.

Hadrian hadn’t understood that when he was younger. It wasn’t a Muggle’s fault that he or she had no magic. However it was a fact that magic and Muggles did not mix. It was dangerous and Muggles would never understand them. They would fear them and try to destroy them like they had done in the past.

His dad had then gone on a tangent about magic and magical theory and experiments that made Hadrian yawn in boredom. While he was interested in magical subjects, sitting and listening to lectures was not his idea of fun.

As Augustus let Hadrian go, he sprang out of the bed with a perky bounce. He let out a laugh when his dad lifted him with one arm nearly up over his head as the man climbed out of bed himself. The movement was smooth and Hadrian wasn’t worried about being dropped. “It’s not going to be easy to keep doing this.”

Hadrian laughed and wiggled his feet in the air. “Dad!” He laughed even harder when his dad twisted him enough so that he was hanging over dad’s shoulder, legs still wiggling. “Why do you have a bruise on your butt?” He asked, noticing the fading colors on his dad’s bum.

“Roddy bit me last night.” Came the casual answer.

“Why?”

“A little pain pairs well with pleasure, precious, if you’re with the right person.”

“Oh, okay.” Hadrian wiggled a bit more to see if he could get loose on his own, but his dad had a firm hold on him.

“Let me hold you a moment longer, I can only do this for another couple of years I imagine.” He eventually levered Hadrian back up and gave him a kiss on the cheek before he set Hadrian down with a smirk. Hadrian lunged forward and wrapped him up in a hug, smiling as he buried his face into his dad’s toned stomach when a hand ran through his hair. “Now, I need to get dressed. I can’t be going around naked all day.”

Hadrian shrugged. “No idea why not. It’s our house and you both sleep naked all the time.”

His dad smiled, dark eyes glittering. “You don’t think we’ll be getting visitors today?”

“I don’t know, maybe they forgot,” said Hadrian shrugging, trying to hide his worry.

“Who would forget, precious?” Augustus chucked on some boxers and quickly went for the freshly laundered trousers that had been folded and laid out by the elves the night before.

“Maybe Cass and Marcus forgot. I haven’t spoken to them in so long. Maybe they think I’m still a baby or something. They’re fourteen already!”

“I doubt that. No one can forget you, and being a baby is part of the charm. Don’t try to grow up too fast, precious.”

Hadrian didn’t understand what his dad meant by that. “I’m going to get dressed.” He rushed his dad for another hug before bolting from the room. He loved having contact with people. Just touching them was nice, the warmth of their hands, the texture of their fingers. He was constantly sitting and cuddling with his friends or their fathers when not out in public. He liked the feeling of them against him, his magic did too.

Rookwood Castle, despite the name, was more similar to the paintings of a large old English manor Hadrian had seen. It’d been remodeled in the late 1890s. However it didn’t feel large or vacant to Hadrian at all. It was warm and inviting. All the floors were done in honey maple and the walls were light and bright. Large square picture windows framed most of the house. Hadrian’s bedroom was down the hall from his dad’s. Hadrian’s room had one of those windows that Hadrian loved to sit and gaze out of whenever he was in there for a long period of time and an ensuite. It wasn’t the largest bedroom in the house after the master but Hadrian refused to be further away than he had to. Stuffed animals lined all around the room, some were tucked in various places, and Hadrian refused to admit that when he had to sleep alone he liked to cuddle up to something.

The stuffed animal gifts started when he was little. Every year his dad and some of dad’s friends would add a single stuffed animal to the collection. He had so many bears of every type and even magical stuffed toys that spat out glitter, growled, or roared in some fashion. His favorite had to be the pink stuffed pig he got one year that did nothing but warm Hadrian at night. Today, the walls of his room were a soft pale blue. It tended to change colors with Hadrian’s moods or even sometimes randomly. It was a brilliant bit of magic that Rodolphus had casted for Hadrian’s birthday when he was five. A few times it’d turned black and one time it’d turned crimson red. Crimson red tended to mean Hadrian was angry for some reason and black was fear.

Hadrian didn’t get angry much. It was like he didn’t have it in him to be angry and mad all the time. While he was a bit more sensitive than most boys he was usually happy. Although he ashamedly admitted to himself, and no one else, that he could get his feelings hurt easily without anyone meaning to.

His dad didn’t know but Cassius and Marcus had hurt his feelings. Not with their words so much as their dead silence. Terry still sent him letters and so did Adrian and Graham, but it was like Hadrian no longer existed to Marcus and Cassius this last school year.

He winced when the light blue began to darken with his sadness. No! Not today, he thought, today is a happy day! He shook the sad thoughts from his mind. He chose cool linen summer robes in soft ivory with blue accents. He washed his face and brushed his teeth, then he blinked at his reflection from the mirror. His eyes trailed up to the faded lightning bolt scar on his forehead. He had a habit of trying to hide it with some of his hair. His dad told him that it was a scar from that night.

He brushed out his hair, having to use some water to get out the tangles, until it fluttered around his chin silky smooth. He was soon done and rushed out when he started to smell the breakfast laid out below. His stomach rumbled at the delicious smells. He took the narrow stairs two at a time and then jumped the last three steps.

“- worried. We haven’t said anything about it,” said Rodolphus.

“He needs to discover it himself. We can’t give him every answer, Rodolphus.”

“But an answer about this is important. He has to be warned-”

“I know he does, but he’s also a child. He needs to make up his own mind on the matter.”

“You don’t worry?”

“Of course I do, more than you can imagine. I also know that discovery is extremely important in this. He deserves the chance to discover it for himself. We’ve handed him all the tools and resources he’ll need, but he’s going to have to make those decisions for himself. If we force him to make the decisions we want then we are no better than them. We are no better than Riddle was and remember we swore not to stoop to that level.”

“It’s not too late, Beauxbatons would be happy to accept him if you wrote.”

“No and you know how I feel about Durmstrang. No. Let him see for himself and allow him to come to his own conclusions on the matter.”

Hadrian didn’t mean to eavesdrop, so he made some loud noises to draw their attention as he rounded into the cozy dining room. “Trying to get rid of me already?” he teased.

“Were you eavesdropping, precious?” Rodolphus asked, smirking as Hadrian plopped down between them with his legs swinging. Harry leaned over to kiss Rodolphus’ cheek since he had forgotten to when waking them. In return he got one to his hair as a hand ran through it. The silver platters were flushed with delicious piping hot food. A full English breakfast as had become tradition for the first day of Hadrian’s birthday week. However, instead of eggs and toast this time there was french toast with the baked beans, blood pudding, tomatoes, and streaky bacon.

“Not intentionally,” he answered. “That’s your fault for being overheard.” His dad laughed and Rodolphus shook his head.

“He’s right.”

“What’s wrong with Hogwarts? Everyone goes to Hogwarts.”

“Unfortunately some of the curriculum isn’t up to our standards,” said Augustus. “I suppose you’ll learn more from the experiences at the castle than from your classes anyways.”

“You know that can change, Lucius has been hellbent these last few months trying to push for more things to return to the curriculum. He’s pushing for many of the classes that got dropped after Headmaster Black left to be returned to the school.”

“Black may not have been the best Headmaster, but at least he kept most of the subjects in tact,” said Augustus. “Mostly he did so because he didn’t want to have to do more work than necessary. He was a Black through and through.”

Hadrian carefully cut his french toast and minded his manners, somewhat. Most of the time he forgot and he still liked licking his fingers. No one could shake that habit no matter how many lessons Aunt Cissa had tried giving him. The taste of the bacon was too good to miss. He would lick his fingers and had even licked Draco’s fingers if only to get his own little point across.

A thought crossed his mind as Rodolphus once again complained that History of Magic was almost worthless. All students who wanted to understand the actual magical history of their world had to do it as a self-study project which led to many Muggleborns and lazy students ignoring it completely. Hadrian knew he’d have to study that one on his own or with a study group. “Not to mention, every Defense Professor seems to only bother going through the basics, and can you imagine what’s going to come of that? A bunch of basic useless witches and wizards, that’s what,” said Rodolphus.

“It’s all watered down, I agree. Maybe Lucius will be heard finally. He did get onto the school board this year. Between him, Wallace, Callum, and Oberon they might finally succeed. It’s too bad Theodore or Morpheus couldn’t get on it as well.”

“It would be helpful if we could get a couple more or at least the Neutrals on our side in making the curriculum more substantial. Thankfully they vetoed Quirrell becoming the Defense Teacher,” said Rodolphus. “Could you imagine that pathetic wizard as a professor?”

“That made absolutely no sense. A Muggle Studies teacher teaching Defense? The man doesn’t even have any Masteries.” His dad had a real look of disgust on his face. This wasn’t the first time conversation topics from the Board of Governors were discussed. Unlike the Wizengamot, where session details couldn’t be shared with those who hadn’t attended, information from the Board was easily passed around to anyone who asked. As long as someone was an alumni of the school or a family member registered for attendance and you had money you could be on it. There were a limited number of seats though.

Hadrian had a thought throughout all this as he continued to consume more food than his small body should hold. “What will happen if I get into Gryffindor?” he asked innocently and turned his big eyes onto the two men who stopped mid-conversation.

“You’re not going to be a Gryffindor,” Rodolphus laughed at the absurdity of it.

“Roddy,” warned Augustus carefully.

“What? It’s true. There is no way. He’s not foolish nor Light enough. We didn’t raise a Gryffindor.”

“That’s enough, Rodolphus,” said Augustus. He turned to Hadrian who felt really strange about the responses he got from the men. “You know I was kidding with him when I kicked him out of bed, right?”

“I don’t know? I mean, it’s not like I get to choose, right? You told me it was a Sorting Hat charmed by the founder, Godric Gryffindor, that chooses.”

“That is true. Most of the time,” said Augustus. “Either way there is nothing wrong with any of the houses. You go where you belong. I’ve heard that you can fight the hat if you don’t like what it chooses. It usually tells you the choice before announcing it.”

“I can?”

“Yes.”

“You were a Ravenclaw, right?”

“I was and my parents were Slytherins,” said Augustus proudly. “The Hat had considered me for Slytherin, but I was more interested in knowledge than ambition.”

“Most everyone I know is or was a Slytherin,” he commented softly. He knew he wasn’t as smart as his dad, so he knew that Ravenclaw might not even be a possibility. He liked gaining knowledge and liked learning, but he didn’t want to think and study all day long. It was exhausting. He’d leave that to Theo.

“Their house doesn’t matter. They will accept you no matter where you end up, just like Roddy and I will.”

“I don’t think that’s true,” said Hadrian softly. He was a bit solemn about that and dropped the subject. He wasn’t sure where he would belong. What if the hat refused to put him with everyone else? He swallowed his emotions along with some bacon. He didn’t see the two men exchanging looks but he did feel it when Rodolphus lifted him from his seat and sat him in his lap. The man’s arms settled around him in a hug, holding him tight.

“I may not love Gryffindor or almost everyone that has come from that house historically, but if that is where magic says you belong, then you will be our little precious lion.” He heard the man say to him. “It takes courage to face your fears and overcome them. Cunning to find good ways to battle with those who would do you harm. Knowledge to know how to use your resources to your best advantage. And loyalty to keep your friends close and alliances strong. All houses of Hogwarts have their pluses and minuses. The traits of the houses can be good or evil - it’s all in how the person wields those traits.”

“I’m not sure I’m that courageous,” said Hadrian.

“Besides, we’re human and we don’t fit that well into boxes, especially at eleven when we’re still learning about ourselves,” said Augustus leaning forward. Hadrian almost groaned when he saw the man’s face. It was going to be a learning moment. “Just because you get into Gryffindor doesn’t mean that’s all you are. Just because I was a Ravenclaw did not mean I was only a Ravenclaw. Just because you’re ambitious doesn’t mean you can’t be a genius. Just because you’re brave doesn’t mean you’re foolish. Just because you’re a Hufflepuff doesn’t mean you’re a coward. And no matter what anyone tries to tell you, being Dark does not make you ‘evil’.”

“Can I stop thinking on my birthday?” he asked petulantly, causing Rodolphus to burst out laughing as Augustus let out a put upon sigh.

Rodolphus snuggled Hadrian. “Yeah, dad, can we stop thinking on his birthday and have fun?”

“Heathens, the both of you,” He settled back with a shake of his head and a smile on his lips. “I guess we can count out Ravenclaw for you at the least, precious.”

“I don’t know anyone but you who wants to think all day every day and never stop. My brain needs frequent breaks and lots of cuddles to recharge.” Not even Theo was that bad.

“Just wait until your exams come up. You’ll want a Ravenclaw friend then to help you with revising.” His dad said with a chuckle. “Roddy and the others certainly were happy to receive my help and notes then.”

“Least he knows what he wants.” Both of the men laughed before they discussed some of what they were going to do during his birthday week. Hadrian knew the final day would be a humongous party with everyone close to them in attendance as it was every year.

“Ah,” Augustus glanced at the old grandfather clock in the room, “the coach should be here soon.”

“Coach? What are we doing today?” Hadrian asked curiously. His father liked to plan things for the first couple of days and surprise Hadrian.

“The boys may not have mentioned it to you yet but once you are a third year you can go to Hogsmeade on certain days. However, once you are a fifth year that area restriction is lifted. So long as your grades and classes are kept up on you have freedom to roam through Hogsmeade Valley. Today we are going to go by coach to visit Hogsmeade and tomorrow we are going for a fly. I want you to learn the highlands and the lowlands of the area so that you have the freedom and knowledge to go where you’d like.”

“Yeah, about that, why do I have to go to London and take the train to Hogwarts when I’m right here?” he asked.

“Good question, and the answer is I don’t know. The Headmaster requires all students to take it,” said Augustus neutrally. “However at the end of the year and during holidays you can simply take the carriage home.”

“So, in fifth year I can come home sometimes?”

Augustus nodded. “Yes, that was the original intent of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade Valley. The valley once kept all magicals associated with the school together in a concentrated area so that they could move freely without worrying about Muggles. Some of it has been lost over time as families moved into strictly devoted Light, Neutral, and Dark areas. You also mentioned you wanted to see the moon-calf dens. We can do that this week too.”

Hadrian perked. “Really? We get to see them?” He’d only ever seen one moon-calf in person. Rarely did they come down off the mountains and hillsides. He was still annoyed with Draco for scaring it off. Draco was kind of a baby, he got scared really easily at the slightest thing.

“Yes, but please don’t smuggle a baby home. I don’t think we ever found that diricawl chick you stole from the sanctuary two years ago again.”

“What are you talking about? She wakes me up every morning!” Rodolphus and Augustus looked at each other as Hadrian smiled smugly at knowing something they didn’t know. “She tags along with me sometimes when I go out to help at the sanctuary. She’s bright green with white tipped wings. Besides, it’s not my fault that she snuggled up into my robe pocket. I didn’t encourage it… much.” He'd only held still with his robe pocket open while she climbed inside…

Both men burst out laughing as Hadrian gave a careless shrug. He stole a bite of tomato from Rodolphus’ plate while the man was distracted.

Hadrian would never forget when they went into a mine shaft last year. It’d been him, Blaise, and Draco when Blaise was visiting from Italy. Blaise had to practically carry Draco through half of it since he was so scared. Hadrian had gone in to harvest the horklumps, which were almost always found near dark dens and spider infested caves. Ever since then Draco would refuse to go exploring with Hadrian. Cassius had introduced him to adventuring and now he loved it with all his heart.

His dad had told him that Narcissa and Lucius were great parents, but their overprotectiveness of their only son had raised a feardie, a Scottish word for a timid twat. That got Hadrian to thinking that maybe he was braver than he expected. He was always digging into new things and experiences. He loved adventures.

He also loved to learn, but not from books. Experiencing something and learning as he went was much more his style. He knew all about the magical spiders that can be found around the region. From shooters to matriarchs, he had run across them all at one point or another. Draco would pass out if he knew Hadrian was looking forward to such a thing. Blaise would find it funny and ask tag along if only to see the outcome. He’d always told Hadrian that wherever Hadrian went things would not be boring.

He may have been raised to be reserved and noble in public like all Purebloods of a Most Distinguished and Noble House, but at his core he was a curious explorer. He’d been quite rebellious growing up. Not in the mean way, but if his dad told him he couldn’t go somewhere because it was dangerous, Hadrian had to go and check for himself. See how dangerous it was. He was sure he’d given his dad and Rodolphus a few too many strokes in the past.

A hand touched his cheek bringing him out of his deep thoughts.

“You went far away, precious,” said Rodolphus, leaning around to look at Hadrian.

“Just got back,” he responded, making Augustus laugh as Rodolphus smirked. He hopped off Rodolphus’ knee. “Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s go!” He drank down the last of his milk in one gulp causing both men to laugh as Rodolphus snagged him and wiped his mouth of the milk mustache.

“Too young for a mustache, precious.”

“Go get your shoes.”

Hadrian almost pouted. He hated shoes. Still he ran off and he could hear Rodolphus speaking behind him. “Glad you didn’t raise him too noble.”

“He’s more reserved in public like a noble Pureblood should be, but being at home and when with his friends in secure locations he should be himself through and through. Merlin knows how trapped we were growing up. It’s how we fell into such a nasty cycle and caught the wrong leader.”

“And stuck with a bitch for a wife…”

Chapter Text

Chapter Two

“Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.”

― Abraham Lincoln

Since it was a lovely July day, the coach that waited for them outside had the cover pulled back. It was made of black walnut wood and the sides were tall enough that it met Hadrian’s shoulders when seated. The seats were a soft red velvet and ruched along the back.

The lands all around the estate were full of hills and valleys. The sleepy sloping mountains he could see in the distance were a perfect copy of the hand brushed magical landscape painting hanging in their dining room. Unlike the painting which only changed based on the season, in the real version you could see some green, getting darker the further out it went. Some mountains even looked white, like there was still snow or stone mixed at the very top of the peaks. The trees in the area had a habit of trying to climb as tall as they could, as if they were trying to match the stateliness of the mountains. Sadly they always seemed to come up short. Unlike the painting, Hadrian could see birds flying about through these trees.

Being mid-summer, all the trees were flushed with green leaves and honking daffodils could be heard in the distance. It was easy to spot the yellow amongst the fields of green and bushes full of lacewing flies. Every now and then you could hear a ‘clump’ sound of the leaping toadstools hidden in the grass knolls and valleys. Hadrian had wanted to have the daffodils planted all around the estate but Rodolphus had begged and pleaded against it. For some reason they really annoyed the man.

Hadrian hopped his way into the driverless coach. He was excited. His dad had given him strict rules about going too far while growing up. Hadrian tried to honor that for the most part. Sometimes, he’d break the rules if he became distracted by something but not too often. When Hadrian was little he hated portkeys and apparation. He hated the way it felt and so his dad would have to order carriages if they needed to get to Hogsmeade. Hadrian was always told he’d been a quiet baby, but he could cut up a fuss that made all the quiet moments pale in comparison.

His dad and Rodolphus sat opposite of him. Hadrian wanted an unobstructed view so they agreed to sit apart so that he could see everything. Augustus reached back and tapped the empty driver’s seat once. “Irondale.”

Irondale was one of many stops they made that day. Hadrian felt like he didn’t have enough eyes or time to take everything in. Augustus at least ordered the coach to stop at regular intervals so they could get out. At each stop he would tell Hadrian about where they were, what used to be there, and any interesting facts he knew. They traveled along the south sea bog right at the edges of Feldcroft before turning to head towards Hogsmeade. Hadrian hoped to see more creatures but since it was a warm, brightly sunny day, it was a lot less likely they’d show themselves before nightfall.

The coach traveled along smoothly. His dad once told him that in the Muggle world means of travel weren’t nearly as smooth.

“Oh!,” Hadrian grinned and pointed off the right side of the carriage. “I bet there’s all kinds of nooks and hidey-holes I can get lost in over there.”

Rodolphus made a noise and Augustus chuckled. “If you go, just make sure you have your wand at all times and always trust what your magic tells you.”

“Really, Augustus? Should you be encouraging this?” Rodolphus asked. “You know that’s not the best advice either. Not all magicals can feel it when their magic tries to tell them something.”

“True, but we can. Especially Hadrian.” He preened a little at this. It was true, his magic had always found ways of informing him of various things. It didn’t always manifest in the same way though, which made it hard sometimes to know. “Either way he’s going to do it anyway,” said Augustus. “Best to give him the tools and resources.”

“And if he gets clubbed by a troll, what then?”

Hadrian laughed. “I know how to run, Dolphy. Trolls are clumsy, stupid, and not very fast. If I get clubbed then I guess I’ll have deserved it, right Dad?”

“I don’t want you to get clubbed, that's why I’m teaching you.”

“Exactly!” Hadrian clapped.

“Sounds a bit Gryffindor-ish to me…” Rodolphus muttered.

“But learning sounds more Ravenclaw…” Augustus added on. They went back and forth as Hadrian leaned over the edges when he spotted a handful of full grown kneazles running through the valley and toward a cave that Hadrian could just make out in the distance. Hadrian’s sight was sharp and next to perfect. He could see longer distances than most, and Augustus had been very proud to point out that this was definitely from his side of the family. He’d told Hadrian that the Potters had horrible eyesight even with glasses.

Hadrian didn’t care where he got his great eyesight from, but he sure appreciated being able to see and notice even the smallest of details. It made it easier when he visited the Sanctuary in finding differences in the creatures being taken care of, even if they were the same species. He had learned that while runespoors may all look the same from a distance, he could tell when there were slight pattern changes. He could even spot runespoor eggs on cliff sides and mountain edges for healers at the Sanctuary. His eyes were also useful when visiting any of the many Pucey greenhouses. He could spot insect infected plants once Lord Pucey talked about what to look for. Lord Albert Pucey had been in charge of teaching all of the children various things about plants as they grew. All of their parents had taken point on different aspects of their education growing up. Adrian always soaked up any information about the greenhouses like a sponge and Lord Pucey was happy that his heir showed such interest in the family’s largest and longest standing source of revenue. Draco and Graham were only interested in learning about plants related to potions, while Hadrian and Cassius were interested in the relationship between the plants and animals on their different properties.

Travel was slower by coach, but Hadrian didn’t mind. It was much better than getting soot and powder in his mouth by way of floo or not seeing a thing when they apparated. Hadrian saw no need to rush things.

They were soon heading north right through the heart of Hogsmeade Valley. Augustus pointed out landmarks and some historical sites that were little more than a valley with not even a pebble left of the old ruined structure. Hadrian knew that a lot of caves and mine shafts could be found in the area. Rodolphus had frowned at Augustus again for peaking Hadrian’s curiosity.

“Where are we going now?” Hadrian asked when a sliver of magic caressed at his fingertips and then spread slowly and lightly along his arms until it reached his shoulders. His fingers reached over the side of the coach to play in the air and magic. He couldn’t see it, but he could feel the magic swirl about his fingers playfully. Hadrian didn’t think it was the castle wards, wards tended to be solid and have a hard feel to them. It may have just been the natural magic that the school had gathered over the centuries of people living there and moving about the grounds.

“We’re passing by the gates leading to Hogwarts. I’ve made plans for a late lunch in Hogsmeade.”

It was late? Hadrian checked his watch curiously and it was late. They had set off at eight that morning and it was already one thirty. “Amazing how time can get away from you.”

“Or slow down to a crawl,” Augustus agreed.

Hadrian soon spotted the bridges and trellises that would lead them to Hogwarts if they continued on their current path. At the next crossroad they hung a right going around the valley and away from that lovely spray of magic. He couldn’t help but turn on his knees to look back at it. In the misty distance you could just see all of Hogwarts, spread out and beautiful in the bright sunlight of the day. A humongous sprawling lake sat below surrounding the bedrock that Hogwarts sat upon. He could hear the rushing of the waters that hugged along the landmass. If he leaned further he could see down the cliff’s edges.

A hand seized him by the back of his robes. “You’re making me nervous,” Rodolphus grunted. “Don’t lean so far over the coach.”

Hadrian beamed at him and plopped back down. He didn’t comment about the magic he felt from Hogwarts. He knew he could tell his dad anything, but he felt like they wouldn’t understand this feeling he had. He’d tried to explain it once to a few friends, but Theo had scoffed at him and Terry just rolled his eyes believing Hadrian was making things up with his imagination. No one ever did believe him that magic had a look to it or a feel.

Hogsmeade was a good sized village that Hadrian had been to many times. They passed by the Hogsmeade Train station on their way in. He could see peddlers and old dingy shops on either side of the rutted street along with a ticket booth. Augustus had told Hadrian that there were a lot of witches and wizards who couldn’t apparate well or very far at all, and that some opted to take the train that ran twice a day. It was particularly popular with families who had small children. Hogsmeade was just beyond the station with a tall wooden sign post arched over the path. Already Hadrian could smell the fresh smell of breads and cakes sold by local bakers. Mixed in was the sweet and familiar yeast smell of local ales. The coach stopped at the entrance as there was a clear sign that said no wagons or carriages unless they were carrying trade goods. It was a safety measure implemented by the village. The streets were oftentimes too narrow to have carriages and coaches traveling along them as well as all of the pedestrians.

As soon as they came to a full stop Hadrian vaulted over the side in his excitement. He then remembered he was in public and straightened accordingly. He checked his robes and tried to keep his feet from forcing him forward. There were times when Hadrian had so much energy that he could hardly contain it. His dad and Rodolphus stepped out a lot more formally and with care.

Hadrian understood why the noble Purebloods tended to come off as cold considering everyone was watching them all the time, but that didn’t mean he had to like the facade or being watched. Hadrian didn’t understand why some people could do and act in the same way every day of their lives and then expect nobles to be perfect. Showing no emotion on a carefully crafted face set in stone. Hadrian didn’t think he would ever learn this thoroughly despite how many times Narcissa, Tatiana, and the other Pureblood ladies sat him down to explain it. He thought that people would be more open to their ways and acceptance if they showed just one small piece of themselves. Why couldn’t people just accept that Purebloods were normal too, even those from Noble and Ancient families?

Maybe one day that would change.

Shops sat on either side of the main street. Men, women, and children were passing by in a cacophony of color and high pitched chatter. Hadrian’s eyes flickered over their faces briefly, carefully watching them.

It was times like these that Hadrian really appreciated Cassius and Marcus the most out of everyone in the group. Both were from a long line of noble Pureblood but Cassius’ mother was ‘average’ as they came. She was from a less prominent American Pureblood family that had become business partners with the Warringtons a few generations ago. Marcus’ mother on the other hand… Hadrian twitched as he thought about her. He didn’t think his dad or Rodolphus knew how awful of a woman she tended to be. Morpheus was okay, but she had always wanted Marcus to be a girl and had been disappointed because for some reason they could not have a second child. She also wasn’t quiet about that fact around the children. A lot of Dark Pureblood families seemed to be having fertility issues. Hadrian didn’t know why, but he had noticed it. Theodore Nott Snr was another one that Hadrian didn’t care too much about. He’d never gotten as close to Theo as Draco because of his father. Thankfully Theo was usually happy to read a book instead of talking with him.

Contrary to popular opinion there was more than Hogs Head Inn and The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade. Most people, particularly Muggleborns and Halfbloods who weren’t raised in the magical world, wouldn’t know there were more streets, markets and shops to be found. On the upper west side of Hogsmeade, past Gladrags and Dervish, was a row of shops and restaurants. The Silver Snitch restaurant was a favorite for them to eat at when visiting the village. Hadrian knew that was where they were going as the intense smell of candy floss and fudge got stronger as they passed by Honeydukes. Most kids tended to stop at Honeydukes and never go further.

The Silver Snitch was a lovely restaurant set between a cafe and small bed and breakfast called the Sleeping Kneazle. It had only four rooms, but they were gorgeous and top of the line. It cost a pretty galleon to stay even for one night. Most took a breakfast or a lunch when they could because of the prices.

The sign for The Silver Snitch was written in looping silver with a silver Snitch with wings of gold flying around it. It had what looked like a halo over top of it and the building’s face was handsome with two large picturesque wide windows. Magic didn’t let passerbys see in, but Hadrian knew you could easily see out. It sat off the main road with a small pond containing gold and yellow fish swimming in it. A small fountain sat in the center of the restaurant and it was wrapped around by a fancy iron fence. A tapestry menu without prices was pinned next to the door. A couple of tables were outside where you could eat your meal if you’d like but Hadrian preferred the back garden if he was going to eat outside. A lot less traffic and more greenery with flowers.

The heat was so strong today that Hadrian knew they would be eating inside. It was a lovely room full of rich woods. The polished round tables were covered in silk cloth of varying shades from gold, silver, green, and red. Candles in shiny chimney glass attached to the walls lit the room making it pleasant for business or pleasure. A glowing orb sat in the center of each table adding to the aesthetic. A few booths sat along the picturesque windows. Two more picture windows sat in the back overlooking a full fledged garden that had butterflies of various shades enjoying the sweet smell of the flowers.

A young female hostess bowed to them as they approached. Her yellow blonde hair was in a tasteful French twist and she wore powder blue silk robes that fell around her ankles in layers. She greeted them and before she could ask if they had a reservation Augustus said, “our party is already here.” His voice was gruff and strong, not the pleasant cheer he showed in private. Rodolphus was looking around the room, his face blank, and his eyes cool and off putting. Hadrian had a feeling he didn’t like being there or anywhere in public. Rodolphus tended to go quiet in public.

Hadrian scanned the modest crowd wondering who they were meeting. Then he spied the only family that had entirely platinum hair with silver eyes that made Hadrian think of the winter skies and ice peaked mountaintops in December and January.

Not a single smile was exchanged as a hand brushed gently down Hadrian’s back once they got to the table. Lucius rose first followed by Narcissa and finally Draco who smirked at Hadrian. His frosty silver eyes thawed only slightly. He’d learned his father’s expression well but his eyes still weren’t as frozen as his parents. Hadrian just couldn’t be that frosty, even his dad wasn’t that frosty in public. He was gruff and blank, but not cold.

Pleasantries were passed around as they all greeted each other. Hadrian was kissed on the cheek by Narcissa and his cheek touched almost affectionately by Lucius, though his eyes remained cold and unfeeling. Hadrian turned to Draco next and exchanged air kisses. Draco had really taken to the fact that the Malfoys had immigrated from France originally and still had branches of the family that lived there. He started following French customs of air kissing on either side last year. Hadrian thought it was a little excessive but Blaise and the Montagues were the same way. Seems Italy was just like France in doing two instead of just one.

“I’ve already ordered Hadrian’s favorite appetizer,” Narcissa let them know. “You have any issues in Hogsmeade?” she looked at Rodolphus with a hint of worry.

“None today,” said Rodolphus.

Draco and Hadrian looked at one another. In most formal, social situations children were to be seen and not heard unless they were spoken too first. Draco and Hadrian tended not to follow the rules for the most part except in very public settings where there were eyes on them.

Draco leaned forward to whisper as the adults continued to converse. Hadrian really didn’t like this coldness even though he knew it was a facade. “Heard you took a coach here, sounds slow.”

“It was great. Dad gave me a tour of the region since in fourth year we can leave Hogwarts.”

“Hm, maybe your father can talk my mother into allowing me to do that too. Surely if I’m with you, they won’t mind?” He made it a question. Narcissa was always hesitant to allow Draco out anywhere alone and on his own like he couldn’t fend for himself.

She was partly right on that. He loved Narcissa to death, she was his godmother as well as technically an aunt of sorts to him, but she could be a bit much. Unfortunately, Lucius by traditional laws and blood, couldn’t be his godfather because he already had one. One who had been set the moment he was born by James Potter. His dad never elaborated, but Lucius was an unofficial godfather.

Draco started talking about Hogwarts and when they should all go to Diagon Alley to get their things. “I wanted to go to Marseille in France, but Father insists that Ollivander is the best.” He sniffed as he said this. “But really, the bootlicking Light have overrun it to a degree that’s disturbing. I don’t see why we couldn’t go to the Ollivander’s here.”

Hadrian had a feeling that Draco didn’t really understand what he was saying so much as he was repeating what Lucius said. To be honest, neither he or Draco had been around Light magicals much except when they passed any on the street. He thought it was cute that Draco tried to act like his father so much. Glancing over at Lucius, who was in a quiet conversation with his dad and Rodolphus, Hadrian could understand why.

He was quite striking. He was always poised, perfect, and his tongue was as silver as his chilling eyes. He had one of those faces that screamed nobility and money. Narcissa was also striking. Her hair was so platinum and her eyes so light that it was any wonder she had Black ancestry in her. She had a thin face that would be a whole lot more pleasant if she didn’t look like she was looking down on you all the time. She had ‘Ice Queen’ coined to perfection.

“Hadrian, are you looking forward to Hogwarts?” Narcissa asked, cutting through Draco’s whispers.

“Sure am,” said Hadrian. At least he would be if he wasn’t so worried about the bloody sorting. Why couldn’t he just pick where he wanted to go? Why did someone or something have to force him to go somewhere he didn’t want to go? He was curious and wanted to be in Hogwarts, but the sorting situation had gotten into his head now and it wouldn’t go away.

Draco unintentionally made it even worse. “I can’t wait until we’re all in Slytherin together. I’d much rather have you and Blaise with me in a room than anyone else. Theo wouldn’t be bad, but there aren’t more than three to a room in Slytherin from what Graham said. We can have it all to ourselves.”

“Can’t wait,” said Hadrian. He didn’t want to talk anymore about Hogwarts right now. He wanted to be happy and stay happy. So, he mentioned the new fleet of Nimbus brooms that hit the market last month. That made Draco go on an excited tangent until Cissa cleared her throat at him and he quickly lowered his voice.

“Pace yourself, Draco. There is no way Hadrian can understand you talking so fast.”

“He understands just fine, Mother,” Draco half-whined and muttered. Hadrian was surprised by how much information Draco rattled off considering how new they were. Then again, Draco was really into Quidditch and followed all the latest news closely.

Narcissa, for all her mothering, had a habit of embarrassing Draco by trying to get him to straighten up or slow down on his excitement. Lucius usually just let him be him unless he started whining too much. Draco was great though when he was in his own skin and setting. When he was relaxed, Draco was like a different person entirely. Hadrian didn’t understand why Narcissa didn’t seem to approve of the real Draco. It was all so confusing.

Soon their appetizers and drinks arrived, they were once more left alone. Rodolphus served Hadrian a plate since it was his birthday week while Lucius did the same with Draco before the adults got their plates sorted. He was soon reminded to use his salad fork by Narcissa. If they were in private, he’d have used a spoon just to be cheeky, but he didn’t want to get on her bad side during his birthday week.

Aside from being corrected on manners and silverware, the whole meal was pleasant. The topic of Hogwarts dropped off as Lucius made a suggestion of taking the train to Paris for the upcoming dueling competition in August. “As you know, the French don’t see Light and Dark the same way. Not as heavily influenced by magical Lords in recent years.”

“It would be a great opportunity,” Augustus agreed.

“I would feel better moving around Paris than I do in Hogsmeade,” said Rodolphus, lifting his glass of wine.

Hadrian frowned and wanted to ask about this, why did he always get uncomfortable in public? But he knew now was not the time. He wondered if it had something to do with his wife? Did her incarceration reflect badly on him?

“If other countries are okay with all forms of magic why don’t we move there?” Hadrian asked in curiosity.

Augustus smiled at Hadrian’s question and before Narcissa could chastise Hsadrian for speaking without being spoken to, he responded. “Remember, precious, the land you are born to tends to be where you are strongest.”

“Some of us also believe that our homelands are still worth fighting for,” Rodolphus added.

“But if you are French, wouldn’t living in France make you stronger, Lucius?” Hadrian continued.

Lucius smirked. “You would be correct, Hadrian. Unfortunately neither Draco nor I were born in France. It was my great-grandfather who moved the family here. We could convert and if Draco had a child in France then being in France would strengthen his magic. It’s a combination of complicated politics and the simple fact that running away doesn’t solve anything.”

Hadrian considered this. “If you keep running eventually there will be nothing left, right?”

“Exactly,” said Lucius smirking. “It never hurts to take advantage of every resource available to you. Relocation for a wizard or witch is a big deal. Some countries are richer in certain kinds of magic.”

“Ireland has the most Light magicals, right? It’s because of the Fey and how they created it with the sprites and faeries. Germany has the most Dark magic, mostly because of the off-branch of fey, the drow. Even goblins are said to be the darker halves of fey. Same with Russia.”

“You’ve been giving him a history lesson I see, Augustus,” Lucius chuckled coolly. His back was to the room, so no one could see his smug expression. His eyes twinkled at Hadrian who couldn’t help but inwardly preen at being recognized.

“He has to get some form of History. Merlin knows Hogwarts isn’t going to offer it,” Augustus grunted with a shake of his head.

“I don’t know, might not be long before we finally get a competent teacher,” said Lucius.

“Oh?” Augustus paused mid-drink. He arched his brow. “How are you managing that?”

“Seems Hawthorne Davies is furious that his young son got an Acceptable on his last two exams. He’s a Ravenclaw and you can imagine how hard that has hit him.”

Augustus inclined his head. “What about independent study?”

“They pulled over half the history books in Hogwarts and placed them in the Restricted Section,” said Lucius darkly.

“You’re kidding me?” He sat down his drink before he could smash it.

“I wish I were, Augustus. I wish-” He then stopped and glanced once at Hadrian and then changed the subject. “It’s deplorable is what it is. The lack of knowledge of one’s own history is only going to spell trouble.”

“I’m slightly surprised he didn’t remove them altogether,” said Rodolphus.

“He would if he could, but there are magics at Hogwarts that would refuse even him.”

Hadrian wondered who and what they were talking about. They seemed to be dancing around it, and he saw the warning glances from Augustus to Lucius and back again.

Draco was stifling a yawn and whispered into Hadrian’s ear. “I’m bored.”

Hadrian wasn’t, he was curious, but he knew that the adults wouldn’t say any more. “Dad, may we be excused to the gardens?” He made sure to add the ‘we’ in there so that Narcissa didn’t override them.

“Yes you may,” Augustus agreed and Lucius nodded. He could see Narcissa’s lips pinch together and knew she wanted to refuse Draco going but couldn’t since Lucius agreed.

“Just be aware of other patrons, boys.” She said as she took a sip of her wine. “Don’t be a hassle for them.”

“Yes, Aunt Cissa.” Hadrian nodded as he and Draco stood from their seats at the table.

Draco followed at Hadrian’s heels. He reached out and seized Hadrian’s arm once they were out of sight. “Thank bloody Merlin for that. You’re the only one that can make mother cave. I swear…” Once the door closed and they were alone in the gardens, Draco threw up his hands in irritation.

The garden fountains, large silver Snitches with golden wings, were spilling out water and turning it a variety of colors. Draco flopped his bottom down carelessly into the honking daffodils that jumped aside in alarm and honked in irritation at the boy who ignored them. Hadrian joined him, this was the Draco he loved the best. He and Blaise taught Draco to stop being uptight and stiff all the time. All it took was a few mud puddles during a warm summer rain.

“She means well,” said Hadrian, chuckling softly. “I agree it's a bit much. How are we ever going to appeal to others and bring more magicals over to our way of thinking if we only show the coldest part of us? I mean, I know it’s all about tradition, history, and the way we were treated, but…”

“It’s exhausting. I never realized how exhausting it was until they let me stay with you for a month last year. I wasn’t even allowed to sleepover at Blaise’s house or visit for more than two hours whenever we were on the Continent. She feared Lady Zabini would try and corrupt me or something.”

Zenyatta Zabini and Narcissa Malfoy did not get along unless they were in public. Even then they held a frosty neutrality. The two of them were polar opposites. Lady Malfoy may be called an Ice Queen but Lady Zabini was an Ebony Beauty with long black hair and striking dark amethyst eyes. Hadrian would never forget about the near heart attack Narcissa had last year when on Hadrian’s tenth birthday Zenyatta kissed him smack on the lips. It wasn’t a sweet motherly kiss that she gave him either. When she had pulled back she told him that he was going to be delicious as he grew older. Hadrian had been shocked when it occurred, but mostly at the feel of Dark magic that passed from her to him. It was the first time he had felt Dark magic from a kiss. Blaise was cut from the same cloth as her in a lot of ways, including his bright purple eyes that he claimed were a Zabini family trait. The Zabini’s were a matriarchal family unlike many wizarding families. Hadrian had never sat in on the witches’ tea parties, but he imagined there was a lot of snipping and sniping.

Hadrian looked up at the bright blue sky, there was not a cloud in sight now. “What’s wrong with you?” Draco asked, rolling and flopping his head onto Hadrian’s folded lap. “You acted a bit weird about Hogwarts.”

“I don’t know what house I’m going to be in,” Hadrian confessed. “I might not be Slytherin.”

“Wha-? How could you not be?” Draco asked stunned.

Hadrian shrugged. “I don’t know what I am, and the more I think about it the more I can’t tell you where I’ll end up. Dad says you can influence the hat, but what if it doesn’t listen to me? I know you and Theo at least will fit into Slytherin. Blaise I can’t tell yet… probably Slytherin, but he’s super smart. He doesn’t have to lift a book to simply know things. He could be a Ravenclaw I bet. Dad was a Ravenclaw.”

“You're not bookish enough, Theo would fit more in Ravenclaw than you would.”

“I do like learning, just not with books or lectures. So, I have no idea where I’m going to go. I don’t want to disappoint everyone.”

“I doubt that is possible, Hadrian.”

“Tomorrow we’re going for a fly over the mountains,” Hadrian said, wanting to get away from the subject.

Draco pouted at him. “I want to go! I know mother wouldn’t let me. Ever since they outlawed carpets. It took father a whole week to talk her into letting me learn to fly by broom. She doesn’t like how thin and unsafe they are.” He rolled his eyes as he said this.

Hadrian didn’t understand why they outlawed carpets. He didn’t understand why they were considered ‘Muggle artifacts’ when the magicals had them first. It didn’t make any sense whatsoever to Hadrian. Carpet was as universal as wood and stone. It seemed like a pointless thing to outlaw and argue. How else were families supposed to get around? Babies didn’t handle apparation well and floo, even with magic, was dangerous for children under four years old. Recently the Ministry of Magic had begun using automobiles, they were all charmed to fly and hold more space, and ran on pure magic alone. Automobiles weren’t allowed to be for sale though in the magical world. So how were those legal for the Ministry and yet not for everyone else? Not that any self-respecting Pureblood would go there, but it could be put in an argument. On that same note…

Ulgh, Hadrian was going on an inner rant and Draco started laughing at him.

“Just look at your face. You look like you’re trying to figure out something.”

“Laws and how they don’t make a bit of sense.” He shook his head. He flicked Draco’s forehead and looked over at the door when he felt the tingle of familiar magic. “Family is coming. Might want to get up and dust the yellow off you.”

Draco was on his feet quickly and Hadrian rose more gracefully for once as the boy began to pat himself down. Hadrian reached over and swiped Draco’s back free of the yellow dusting. His magic tingled from his palms causing Draco to shiver and his eyes went wide.

“Sorry.”

“Felt good,” said Draco, blinking at him.

His magic liked to sometimes do whatever it wanted without his input. “Daffodils were unhappy with you making them move. How am I looking?” He turned and felt Draco’s eyes rove over him.

“Perfect, as always.”

Perfect huh? How perfect would Hadrian really be if he wound up in Gryffindor? Or dare Hadrian say it, Hufflepuff?

Chapter Text

Chapter Three

“No matter how much suffering you went through, you never wanted to let go of those memories.”

― Haruki Murakami

Each day brought him something new. One by one the owls began to arrive with small gifts for his birthday. Blaise sent him a beautiful stuffed white unicorn. Its eyes were charmed an emerald green and when he squeezed it, a rainbow moonbeam shot out of its backside beneath his tail. Rodolphus thought it was ridiculous, Hadrian found it delightful. His dad picked him up a stuffed niffler. It was golden with the cutest beak. It sprayed out gold glitter which annoyed everyone when it ended up spilling across the breakfast table. His dad laughed and Rodolphus made a mutter about how hard glitter was to get off things even with magic.

Graham, Adrian, and Terry all pitched in to get him several custom Slytherin things: a flag, a scarf, and even a set of hand towels that were monogrammed in silver. He sat them aside, unsure how to feel about the gifts. Theo had sent him a book of poems. Hadrian didn’t know why, but he was more than appreciative of the gift. It was obvious that Theo put a lot of thought behind the gift. When he opened it he saw it was a book of poems from all across the world from America to Uganda and even small places that most people wouldn’t know existed. Some of the poems were about their culture, animals, their way of life, and preserving their magic. He was impressed.

He ignored the weird feeling in his stomach and throat when he got nothing from Marcus and Cassius during the week. He tried not to let it bother him. It wasn’t about gifts after all.

Lucius got him a gorgeous set of fwooper and phoenix feather quills. The fwooper quills were bright and soft in an array of colors, and did not need bottles of ink. Each feather came with ink inside of it that would last at least a year before it ran out. The phoenix feather was fire red with black edges. It looked like it’d been taken from the tail feather with how lovely it was. It did require ink. The stationary that came with them was definitely Narcissa’s doing. It was embroidered with silver and golden leafs. His name was imprinted at the bottom of each piece of stationary and it came in a soft black furred box.

He also got various gifts from his friends’ parents. A monogrammed tote for books. A self-updating book on magical creatures written by the Scamander family. New bronze pruning shears that would always stay sharp but never cut him. Many items that would be useful his first year at Hogwarts.

Hadrian wasn’t sure if he felt like having one big party with everyone when he awoke the morning of his actual birthday. He smiled when Phoebe nibbled at his ear. The window was always left cracked even in the coldest months so that she could flutter in and wake him in the morning. She toddled over to the seeds he always sat out for her as he sat in his expansive bed. The walls were a more solemn blue than they should be for it being his birthday.

He’d been ruminating a lot this week. So much so that he was having a hard time being his usual cheerful self. Hadrian was pleased to note his dad didn’t notice his moods. He didn’t come into Hadrian’s room often. He didn’t want to let everyone down.

Rolling out of the bed, he reached over and stroked the bird’s soft bright green feathers. She let out a coo of pleasure when he stroked the right spot of her wing. Some new clothes had arrived overnight from Gladrags for his birthday party. Hadrian had a habit of wearing most of his clothes out because he was always venturing outside and doing things. He washed and dressed and kept trying to talk himself into being more cheerful and happy. It wasn’t just the Hogwarts issue, but also the Cassius and Marcus thing. Are they mad at him? Did they forget about him? Is that why he hadn’t heard from them?

He pulled on a deep green silk shirt beneath a dove gray form fitting vest with dark trousers. The trousers were made of buckskin, tear resistant, and easy to move in. He had shoes that came up his calf made of thick Spanish leather. Current fashion had the trousers going down into the boots. It kept them clean and Hadrian rather liked it. His dad told him that unfortunately Hogwarts’ trousers had been adapted to be looser and more like trousers found in the Muggle world with the influx of Muggleborn. Hadrian wasn’t looking forward to wearing a uniform daily that didn't fit him well but was looking forward to being able to change into his own clothes after classes. After sorting out his clothes he proceeded to brush his hair. He could hear the distinct sounds of the house-elves rushing about. He had no doubt that they were working overtime. He could feel their magic all over the house.

With a distinct crack Hadrian tilted his head and smiled warmly at the creature that stared adoringly up at him. Sometimes, the people in his life, his family included, did not understand him one single bit. His relationship with this little creature was one of those reasons.

“Young master. Your guests are set to arrive in an hour,” he said, bowing so low his nose touched the shiny tiled floor.

“Thank you, Dobby. I like what you’re wearing,” he said, causing Dobby’s head to snap up and his eyes to fill to the brim with tears.

“Young master notices Dobby!” He rushed Hadrian for a hug. He could feel natural ambient magic flow through him as he stroked down the elf’s little back.

“He tries to.”

Dobby was an odd house-elf even who was willing to wear more than the basics. Hadrian had gotten crafty when he relieved the exuberant elf from the Malfoys a few years back. No longer was Dobby wearing something simple like a white sheet. Dobby was wearing a bright emerald green pillowcase that had been sewn by the elf’s own hands and he had little black shorts to match. He even had sandals made from leather straps.

Dobby was the one and only time that Hadrian had lost his cool so completely, but it wasn’t because of Dobby. It was the treatment that Hadrian had found so repulsive. As a Pureblood wizard they should all be setting the example and treating servants as less than the dirt on your boots was not the example that should be set. Just because everyone else was doing it did not mean they should be doing it too.

Hadrian was fascinated by the magic of house-elves. It was the purest form of magic that he’d ever seen in his life. If it could be seen visibly it would like gold and silver threads running together and intermixing. Nothing could make him sit in silence for hours than sitting and watching the elves work. He’d done so many times. No one seemed to understand what Hadrian was doing when he could be found sitting on a counter and watching the little creatures going about their lives in the kitchen.

He’d been responsible for encouraging them to make the cutest little house within their very roomy walls. No reason to treat those who took care of you and were so loyal and devoted to you like a piece of shit. Let’s just say that seeing the treatment of Dobby by the Malfoys had set off his magic in a way that had caused the Malfoys to be fearful of him for a couple of years.

He’d been five at the time.

“Thank you, Dobby. I’ll be down soon. Can you please refresh Phoebe’s water bowl?”

“Dobby would be proud too, young master!” He vanished on the spot, still sobbing and overemotional. Hadrian didn’t mind one single bit.

Dobby’s magic washed over him, making him shiver. It helped to perk him up enough that when he came out of the bathroom the walls had lightened considerably and were slowly turning a shimmery green.

All of the house shined like it never had before. Not to say the house wasn’t always clean, because it was, but this felt a bit over the top.

An owl was sitting on the table when he entered the dining room. “Good morning, precious. I’m surprised you didn’t wake us,” said Augustus, holding an arm out to him.

Hadrian went into him. “Thought I’d give you a break.”

“A nearly week long break?” Rodolphus arched his brow.

“What can I say?” Hadrian shrugged and kissed his father’s scruffy cheek.

“Something important for you.” He pointed at the owl who was waiting at a clear part of the table. He was eating some streaky bacon and had a small goblet of water.

“You couldn’t have taken it for me?”

“It’s not mine, the owls are trained not to let anyone but the holder of the letter take it off of them.” Hadrian was urged onto his dad’s knee as he reached out his hand causing the owl to hoot in acknowledgment and flutter up to land on his arm. Hadrian stroked him and then removed the letter that was still tied around a leg. He thanked the creature as he left Hadrian’s arm, lifted another slice of bacon, and then took off.

“Probably his favorite delivery so far,” Rodolphus laughed. “Some official Hogwarts owls can be very impatient.”

“Food is always the answer.”

To Hadrian James Rookwood

Bedroom With Picture Window

Rookwood Castle, Feldcroft, Hogsmeade Valley, Scotland

“Talk about literal, are they stalking me?” Hadrian wondered out loud.

“The quill that writes the addresses was enchanted by Rowena Ravenclaw herself. She was an impeccable witch who’s charms have never been rivaled by anyone to date,” Augustus said proudly.

Hadrian read over the contents of the letter, landing on the signature of the Deputy Headmistress at the bottom. He thought he might have heard his dad mentioning Professor Minerva McGonagall a time or two previously. “To this day I cannot understand this woman,” he muttered reading the letter over Hadrian’s shoulder.

“What does that mean?”

He shook his head. “You should know better, precious. Just keep reading. I’m curious about the booklist.” He scoffed when Hadrian produced it. “Figures. Introduction to Defense. Looks like all you’ll be doing is reading. Nothing with substance.”

“Why don’t you teach us then, Dad?” Hadrian asked shifting to look at him.

“Teach you?” Augustus queried.

“Yeah, you can send us things to do every month. It wouldn’t take too much time to put something together and send it to us.”

“Not a bad idea, Augustus,” said Rodolphus. “I’m sure we can all help out.”

“He’s a bit young to learn the things you know, Rodolphus.”

Rodolphus smirked. “Better than nothing.”

Augustus stroked his scruffy chin thoughtfully. “I’ll think about it, precious. For now, eat your breakfast. It won’t be long before everyone arrives for the party, and tomorrow morning we’ll all head for Diagon Alley.”

“Can’t we get everything in Hogsmeade?” Hadrian asked.

“Usually, but Ollivander will be in Diagon Alley for the rest of the month. He won’t return to Hogsmeade until September after school starts. It works out well because Lucius and I have business at the Ministry so will need to be in London anyways.”

“I’ll spend my time in the Spiny Serpent on the edge of Knockturn. I don’t care for Diagon Alley much,” said Rodolphus. “Besides, if I’m with you I doubt you’ll get great service.”

“Why not?” Hadrian asked.

“Just the way it is. I should be in Azkaban, and every Light and most Neutral wizards in London agrees with them. I’m sure you noticed I’m not very popular in many circles.”

“I noticed it, but I don’t know what it’s about,” Hadrian admitted.

“Being married to the number one Lieutenant of Voldemort isn’t looked upon very favorably.”

“But you were never accused were you?”

“Oh I was accused and even stood trial. I was acquitted, but the rumors and gossip from the Daily Prophet stuck,” he scowled at this. His face had darkened, but he didn’t say anything more. “Anyway, I generally do better in Hogsmeade. Most that live around here and deeper in the magical world view me neutrally, but Diagon Alley is full of Muggleborns and filth going in and out at all hours. It’s heavily watched by the Light.”

“May I ask how you were acquitted?” Hadrian asked.

“My mark vanished, completely. It was easy to stand beside my wife while she displayed hers proudly. Even if her’s had faded it was still there and had a trace of his magic. My arm was completely clean and clear. You should have seen the look on the Light Lord’s face when he saw how clean and empty my arm happened to be. He couldn’t believe it.” He laughed darkly, but it had no amusement in it. It was a hollow laugh. “She couldn’t believe it even more because she was right there when I took the mark. She called me a traitor and somehow she managed to get a hold of a poisoned silver dagger in the courtroom. I don’t know how, but she did. Maybe a guard gave it to her or she hid it under her skirts. The Ministry always underestimates women.”

“Did she hurt you?” Hadrian asked, concerned. He’d never talked about this before. Augustus was quiet and simply stroked Hadrian’s cheek.

“No. Rabastan stepped in front of it and died instantly. It was coated in one of Voldemort’s special poisons.”

“Rabastan was… your brother?”

“He was my younger brother. He was everything to me. She and that fake Dark Lord took everything away from me,” said Rodolphus darkly. “I blame the Ministry and their lack of security for his death. I blame a lot of things… some I can’t talk about right now.”

“I’m sorry, Dolphy.” He slid off his dad’s lap and went over to Rodolphus who wrapped his arms around him.

“My brother never wanted any part of it, that’s what hurts the most. He wanted to stay out of it, but was dragged, kicking and screaming into the whole damn thing. I, as the big brother, did not do a single bloody thing to stop it.” He squeezed Hadrian. “It was my greatest shame. His death is my punishment for the actions I did under a false prophet who did not have our interests at heart.” He squeezed Hadrian like he was squeezing one of Hadrian’s stuffed animals. Hadrian snuggled into his neck.

“You see, Hadrian?” said Augustus softly. “Why I make sure you get to make your own decisions? We won’t make decisions for you, only help you and guide you, but you have to always see things for yourself and make your own choices. We won’t force your hand like ours had been.”

Hadrian nodded solemnly. “Yes, Dad, I understand.” He kissed Rodolphus on the cheek. “I’m surprised you told me everything, Dolphy.”

“You’re about to strike out on your own, Hadrian. You need to know as much as we can tell you about what people may try to use against you without coloring your opinion with our own,” said Rodolphus. “I haven’t always liked Augustus’ discovery ideals or all the freedom he gives you. They terrify me. I don’t want anything to happen to you, but I can understand it. Sometimes. I used to be like you. Me and Rabastan. We were the pranksters. Always up to no good. We always covered for each other, but I kind of lost that after he died. It’s like one side of me has vanished and I won’t be able to get it back. We weren’t twins, but we were so bloody close.”

Hadrian thought about it and then his brows furrowed. “But, Dolphy wouldn’t that have been grounds for dissolving the contract between you and her? She harmed your bloodline.”

“It is,” Rodolphus said, looking at Hadrian. “You could be a Ravenclaw,” he added and Hadrian stuck out his tongue making the man laugh and real light shone in his eyes.

“I know enough to get by.”

Augustus laughed and Rodolphus smirked. “Just enough to get by, huh? Unfortunately, the bitch was carted away before I could say the words to dissolve it. It had to be said in her presence if coming from me. I probably wasn’t in any shape to do it anyway on the spot. If she ever got out or somehow escaped and got before me, then yeah - I would say the words and do it with real pleasure. I’d do it slowly. She’d know what was happening until her brain and heart stopped working - and believe me that would be the last thing I’d do. Maybe I’ll stick half of her in one box and the other half in another box and throw them out to sea or something.”

“Inventive,” said Augustus.

“I’ve come up with quite the number of innovations over the years. It helps. But, we don’t need to be talking about this on your birthday.”

“No, I’m glad you told me,” said Hadrian. “I’m glad you’re honest with me.”

“We’ll always be honest. We might leave things out here and there, but we will always give you the truth when you need it,” said Augustus emphatically. “Now, I think you should eat some breakfast. It’s coming up on ten o’ clock. Everyone will be here shortly.”

oOo

The doors had been thrown open so that guests could arrive. Wards around the property had been altered enough to allow apparition to the courtyard out front. Guests would arrive by the fountain that had the Rookwood coat of arms engraved on it framed by two eagles with spread wings. They would be met with rings of flowerbeds in a cacophony of colors that attracted both hummingbirds and butterflies. While Hadrian didn’t know half of the people attending, he knew that they were important.

Over the last ten or so years, his dad, Lucius, and many of the others had worked really hard to re-cast their cause and reshape it properly now that Voldemort was no longer an influence over them. Hadrian still didn’t understand why his party had turned into a political show, but he knew that things like this, celebrating a magical child turning eleven, was important to the families. It was important to the magical world.

While they were not the most friendly with the Light, there had to be a balance of both magics. All magic had to be accepted, even if the Light had become too strong, too restrictive and strict over the use of magic and what they could or could not use.

A lot of Neutral Purebloods were turning out for the affair, Rookwood had never even once been accused of being part of the Dark Lord’s group. He’d always claimed to be neutral, not out of shame, but because someone had to be an intermediary. Since his father was an Unspeakable, which was one of the most important jobs in the magical world, he had become that intermediary. A few might suspect that Augustus Rookwood was aligned with the Dark Lord, but it’d never been outright spoken of. Hadrian had heard his dad talk about a halfblood Snape who had been a part of their numbers but turned traitor. There had been concerns that the Light suspected his dad, they had no concrete evidence.

Hadrian was thankful that he wasn’t required to stand with his dad to greet all the guests coming in even if it was his birthday. Most of the guests were from Pureblood families. He knew that there would be a few Halfbloods that were politically important in attendance. It was important to try and appeal to everyone, to show themselves as magic crusaders not Dark crusaders. It was true that their goal was to make Dark magic more accessible, publicly allowed and acknowledged, but in the end the goal was to free all magic. It was theirs, rightfully so in their blood from birth. It shouldn’t be something to be ashamed of and hidden.

The Malfoys were some of the first to arrive, followed by the family of the name Crouch. Hadrian was surprised by this, he’d heard talks that the Crouches were staunchly Light and Bartemius Crouch Snr absolutely abhorred anyone who aligned Dark. He hated them so much so that he had legalized the usage of the Unforgivables by Aurors during the war before Hadrian was born. He wanted to fight fire with fire. His father said that he was a social climber, he only did it for his own gain and nothing more. When his son was caught and brought to trial things took a turn for the worst. His son had been discovered attacking the Longbottom family with Bellatrix.

It was all so confusing.

Crouch came alone. He shook hands with Augustus, and Hadrian noticed Rodolphus had made himself scarce.

Draco pulled him away so he couldn’t see anymore, but he thought he heard someone mention that the Minister of Magic had arrived with his wife and only son. Draco was wearing lavish robes of blue and silver. His hair was perfectly gelled back. Hadrian always told him he should let his hair breathe and lay naturally since it would look better, but his mother insisted that it be perfect with not a piece out of place.

“Come on, I saw the Parkinsons’ apparate in. I don’t want Pansy to find me!” He seized Hadrian to drag him away.

Rooms began to fill up with people, food was laid out on silver platters, and some music was playing in the background by instruments that played themselves. A few people smiled and greeted Hadrian by wishing him Happy Birthday as they went past. A couple of men tried to pull him aside in hopes of getting in a good word with his father. Augustus was a popular man it seemed and having connections with him usually meant higher ranks in the Ministry. His father might not be as rich as the Malfoys but he had power and connections. Rookwood was one of the oldest names that could be traced all the way back as far as Merlin. They were one of the only British families that could prove it unlike some who made that claim.

Draco grumbled because he too was greeted and he had to act like the perfect Pureblood. He was handed a half a dozen business cards before they could break away.

“Being rich can be tiring sometimes,” Draco grumbled, tossing the cards into the fire when Hadrian closed the double doors to the library.

Just after Hadrian turned his back they flew back open. He let out a gasp when dark arms wrapped around him and he was pulled into the unfairly tall boy who was only a year older than them, but would be starting at the same time. The boy’s black hair was braided back in long rows that were beaded with silver and gold clasps throughout making them shine in the castle lighting. They made a soft clinking sound as the braids swayed and moved, flooding over Hadrian’s small shoulder and body as full lips pressed to his cheek. Hadrian laughed and reached up to touch the beads, being the only one in the world outside of direct family who was allowed to do such a thing without asking first.

“Blaise.” He turned but didn’t have a second to catch his breath before he was wrapped up in a hug and then kissed squarely on the lips. A thread of silky darkness flowed from Blaise and into Hadrian’s slightly parted lips causing his spine to shiver. It was said that Dark magic was addicting and Hadrian could understand why if what he felt when kissing Blaise or his mother was any indication. Hadrian’s hands automatically came up as the soft lips brushed along his own. He stroked the taller boy’s strong jawline up his cheeks and when they parted, he found himself staring into the most astonishing eyes. Hadrian could only describe them as pure amethyst.

Even at nearly twelve, Blaise Zabini was a shocking sight to behold. If you met him, you would never forget him. Just like his mother. He stood nearly a head taller than Hadrian and Draco, already about five four or five five. He was also starting to lose his childhood fat to a well sculpted jaw and bone structure that made him absolutely gorgeous with an uptilt to the eyes that showed a slight oriental ancestry somewhere back in his lines.

He still had some youth and softness along the edges, but Hadrian could tell that he had hit puberty. Probably the first of all of them in their young group. Hadrian knew the basics of what that may mean, his dad had sat him down and given him the Kneazles and the Krups talk already. All Dark Pureblooded children were given the talk between their tenth and eleventh birthdays. He could only hope he wasn’t given the talk again once he started dating.

Hadrian wouldn’t be surprised if Blaise was maturing ahead of even Terry. Rodolphus mentioned that those with African heritage often did. So it was likely that Graham would too, now that Hadrian thought about it more. Hadrian last saw Terry at Yule and even then he looked like he was starting to stretch like a piece of gum. He was impossibly skinny and becoming lanky, more so than even Hadrian who was often called petite. At least Blaise didn’t look like he was getting out of proportion.

The dark skinned pre-teen was wearing a short white linen sleeved cloak in consideration of the summer months and a pair of white linen trousers with real white runespoor skin boots that had a heel to elevate his height a couple more inches topping him out at five foot six. The shirt beneath the white cloak was a dark purple and the contrast of both shades against his rich chocolate skin was beautiful.

“You made it.” Hadrian smiled at his friend. “I love the braids. They’re beautiful.”

“Thank you. I thought you would and of course I would not miss your party, Hadrian. Mother and I arrived from Italy last night. The portkey was horribly bumpy this time. I think the worker who made it was sloppy.” His voice was still young, not breaking yet, and it hadn’t caught up to puberty yet. He squeezed Hadrian, not letting him go.

“You really think this is my party? I don’t even know half of these people.”

“All about networking and connections.”

Hadrian made a face, scrunching his nose and Blaise laughed, his eyes dancing. “Come on, gorgeous. I saw Terry and Graham arrive.”

“I don’t want to go out there. Parkinson is out there,” Draco whined and then rolled his eyes to the ceiling. “Mother and Lady Parkinson are still talking about joining us together in the future.” He made a face that no Pureblood mask could hide. “Merlin… I hope father doesn’t agree. Please don’t make me go out there.” He sniffed. “Besides, this is Hadrian’s birthday. They should come to us.”

Hadrian laughed as Blaise, while keeping a hold of him, leaned over to exchange double air kiss greetings with Draco. Both boys were close friends, but Draco wasn’t a fan of how ‘touchy feely’ Blaise could get. Hadrian never minded and eagerly encouraged it if it meant more hugs and cuddles for him, which is probably why he was given carte blanche to touch Blaise’s hair.

“We have to eat sometime.” Blaise argued.

“I can call a house-elf, but yes we should probably present ourselves at some point.”

“Maybe once everyone is gathered?” Draco said hopefully.

“You just want to use us as a shield,” Blaise accused.

“Naturally,” Draco sniffed once more. “You two together aren’t very intimidating. Maybe Cassius or Marcus could help.”

Hadrian frowned. “You think? I haven’t heard anything from them in a year,” he said, trying not to stiffen. “They might not come.”

“You haven’t?” Blaise mimicked Hadrian’s frown, no doubt noticing him stiffening.

“No, have you?”

Blaise shook his head. “While I’m friendly with Cassius and Marcus I’m not sure I’d consider them ‘friend friends’ just a friend of a friend.”

“That doesn’t make sense,” said Draco.

“I always got the distinct impression that Cassius and Marcus don’t like me all that much.”

“Why?” Hadrian asked. “You’re the bestest.”

“Hey! He is not, I’m better than him,” Draco teased.

Blaise smirked over at Draco while hugging Hadrian tighter. “You wish.”

“What does he wish?” A soft barely unheard voice said, making them all turn.

“Oh man, you’re not going to help shield me either.”

“Why would I do that?” asked the boy seriously as he stepped through the door and closed it back with a snap. “Why can’t you tell Parkinson to take a hike by yourself?”

“You know why I can’t,” Draco sulked. “Well, least my parents aren’t in talks with Bulstrode.”

“Hello Theo.” Hadrian greeted the boy with a wave, receiving one in return.

“I think the two of us need to be hidden at this rate.” Theo deadpanned. “Merlin, I don’t want to be betrothed to that girl.”

“Troll you mean?” Draco grinned deviously, making Theo look down at his feet.

Theo, Theodore Nott Junior, always looked smaller than he was with the way he tended to hunch down, especially if he had a book, though he was about the same size as Draco and Hadrian. He liked to be on the fringes of the group without too much interaction. He was often quiet and thoughtful. He had dirty blond hair that was short on the sides with a bit of length on the top that swept to one side. He was thinner than Hadrian and his face was a slim oval. His eyes were light, but Hadrian couldn’t decide if they were light blue or light green. “Yeah.”

“Not sure how her square face and your oval face would make for kids,” said Blaise, causing Theo to go pale.

“Don’t joke, Zabini,” Theo said wide-eyed. “What can I do about it? All my father sees is her bloody money that she’s set on inheriting.”

“Find someone with more money,” Draco proposed as they all made their way over to the ring of stuffed couches and armchairs. A large mahogany table that was at the perfect level to place drinks and snacks on was in the middle of the seats. Draco and Theo dropped together onto the sofa.

Blaise laughed as he sank down onto an armchair and then pulled Hadrian down onto his lap before he could move to sit on another. Hadrian cheered, enjoying the warmth as he shifted about to get himself situated sideways, legs over Blaise’s with the boy’s arms wrapped around his waist comfortably. He draped one arm behind Blaise’s head and lightly ran his fingers through the loose braids.

“Why not you, Draco?”

Theo and Draco looked at each other, furrowed their brows, and then looked at Blaise incredulously. “You’re not serious?”

“Sure, anything is possible,” Blaise grinned. “Or haven’t you not heard? The research findings have been available to the public for a few months now.”

“We’re second cousins,” said Theo, and he sounded sorry about that.

Draco nodded. “Unfortunately, but it was a good idea. Least I’m good looking.”

“Pretty. You’re pretty, there’s a difference,” Blaise pointed out.

“Hey!”

“He’s not wrong, Draco. You’re very pretty with your silver eyes.” Hadrian nodded. “If Theo’s father is really only interested in finding a match based on money then contracting with the Malfoys makes perfect sense. Your father is probably the richest Pureblood in Great Britain.”

“From what I hear, if certain bills get passed multiple marriages are even possible,” said Blaise. “Imagine being able to tie your family close with multiple contracts.” Blaise said the last sentence with his lips whispering across Hadrian’s neck, making him giggle and close his eyes at the sensation. His lips were soft and smooth across his skin, different from his dad’s rough morning beard.

“I can’t even think of stomaching one marriage, how would I deal with two?” Theo’s voice actually raised at this, and the look on his face had Hadrian giggling again. He had to hide it behind a hand. “Are you out of your bloody mind? Do not - do not give my father any ideas! Merlin knows I’d be married off to a troll and a hag!”

“How about Parkinson then?” Draco suggested. Theo looked at him and didn’t even bother responding. Draco sighed. “Well, it was worth a try.”

“No one wants that pug, Draco. Don’t be cruel to Theo.” Blaise shook his head in mock disappointment.

“I wouldn’t sweat it too much. You have to at least be fifteen before you’re allowed to sign anything,” Hadrian pointed out. “It would be an invalid contract before that because of the infancy of our magic if you signed at eleven years old or even twelve. Surely you can find a way around it by then.”

“You’re a bit too optimistic,” said Theo. “My father can still create an understanding with the Bulstrode Lord before then.”

“It doesn’t pay to be pessimistic about it,” said Hadrian.

“Says the one who has all the freedoms,” Draco added.

“Maybe, but because I have all the freedoms it means that I have the freedom to help you change your outcomes. I don’t know how yet, but I’m sure we’ll figure it out. We always do.”

“You know, there’s an idea. Sign the contracts now to agree and create peace in your homes,” said Blaise, making both of them look at him. Hadrian just leaned his body back enough to see his face better, fingers stilling in their play of Blaise’s braids. “It would be invalid. It would dissolve all on its own once you reach the age of majority.”

“My father isn’t that stupid,” said Draco.

“My father might be,” said Theo thoughtfully. “We’re not poor, but he’s recently been very concerned about our finances after he made some investments that aren’t working out in his favor like he hoped. It’s not like we’re going to turn out like the Weasleys but I’m not sure what investments he made. He said he won’t start teaching me how to manage the family books until I’m sixteen.”

“Sorry to hear that, Theo. Hopefully it sorts itself out and he relaxes some. And Draco, your father is a bit more like my dad. I don’t think he’ll force you into anything you don’t want to do even if it upsets Cissa.”

Draco nodded. “I can only hope.”

“I’m not so lucky unless someone gives him a better option. Right now all I’m seeing is a troll in my future,” Theo quipped.

“Maybe you can appeal to him, fearing for the end of your bloodline by being unable to perform your marital duties,” Blaise cackled, causing Theo to shudder and close his eyes.

“Stop it, Zabini. You’re doing that on purpose to get it in my head.”

“No, me? Would I do that?”

“Yes.” All of them, even Hadrian answered. When Blaise’s face drew into a pout, Hadrian kissed his cheek with a snicker. No one could stay pouting for long when he did that. Sure enough Blaise lost his pout quickly with a small squeeze to Hadrian’s waist.

“Well, well, well looks like all the real fun is in here. Birthday boy is hiding.”

“I wondered why everyone kept asking us where you were.”

Everyone turned to the opened door as Adrian, Terry, and Graham stepped through into the room. The three older teens shut the door behind them. Adrian had just finished his third year at Hogwarts while Terry and Graham had finished their second.

“I’m helping them hide. Can’t let friends hide all alone after all,” Hadrian chirped as he hopped off Blaise making the boy sulk silently.

“So you, Hadrian,” Graham scooped him up first. He was the second tallest of the older boys. His skin was a bit lighter than Blaise’s, more on the mocha side like his father, Oberon. His hair was dark, almost pitch black but when hit by light highlights of red and brown showed. It wasn’t full black like Hadrian or Blaise’s hair. His hair was kept short otherwise it would be a mess of curls. Hadrian admittedly loved Graham’s curls when his hair was long enough to have them. The dark teen’s eyes were like orbs of molasses set behind a set of rimless square frames. The glasses made him quite noble and smart looking when combined with the Italian cheekbones he inherited from his father. Hadrian kissed him flush on the cheek as he was sat back down.

Adrian was the shortest of the three and slightly stocky. His hair was a dark auburn shade that looked brown in the shadows. He had only a small smattering of freckles over the center of his nose. He had blue eyes with hints of hazel ringed around the outside. They were further enhanced by his dark lashes. “You haven’t grown at all,” Adrian teased as he reached out to greet Hadrian.

“And you have,” Hadrian huffed. He was snuggled by Adrian a bit tighter before placed down with a kiss to the cheek.

“So I’m the last one? Which means I get to molest him for longer,” said Terry.

“Oi! That’s my job,” Blaise fake protested. They all laughed as Terry swooped around Hadrian, not quite lifting him off his feet but holding onto him tightly all the same.

Terry Higgs was tall and lanky. Terry’s eyes were rich chocolate brown that sat deep in his face and his skin was a mix between olive and peach. Hadrian could feel how thin his chest was though and worried about him not getting enough food. He sure was warm though as he snuggled Hadrian. His brunette hair had a lot on top and on the sides but was short in the very back. Some of his hair came around and dangled along his forehead and eyes. His face was a bit longer than the others, oval in shape like Theo’s. His face was cute like a puppy. A really cute puppy that would always stay cute even as it aged. If Hadrian was being honest his face was the cutest of all the boys hands down. He had a face that was set to look young for a very long time. Even if he was only thirteen, Hadrian could tell.

“This is a better gift than the gifts you all sent me!”

“You’re just an attention seeker,” Blaise teased. “Higgs, stop hogging my cuddle partner.”

“Guilty as charged. Least I admit to it,” said Hadrian, proudly as Terry continued to snuggle him. The older teen ignored Blaise and buried his nose into Hadrian’s neck right below his ear. He felt Terry press a light kiss to his neck in greeting before the teen pulled back enough to speak and be heard.

“You get to see him more than me,” he pointed out.

“I live in Italy.”

“You’re still over here quite a lot.” Terry pointed out. It was true too. Ever since they had met Blaise during one of the trips to the Continent when Hadrian and Draco were six, the three had many playdates set up. Zenyatta was more than happy to send Blaise to Britain or Scotland on his own for weeks at a time, staying in Malfoy Manor or Rookwood Castle. Augustus saw no problem with Hadrian spending time at the Zabini household either, despite Narcissa’s arguments against it.

“All of us,” Graham gestured at the older teens, “we’ve been stuck in Hogwarts. With no precious Hadrian to share his warmth with us. We all miss our free hugs.”

“Did you get your letter?” Adrian asked, interrupting the conversation to change topics. He moved over to the other free couch, settling onto the seat as Terry finally released Hadrian to sit next to him. Blaise, seeing his fellow cuddler free, pulled Hadrian back onto his lap.

“I did at breakfast. Dad doesn’t have much faith in the Defense teacher.”

“Rightly so. All we’ve learned is Levioso,” said Terry contritely.

“Levioso? In Defense?” Draco scoffed. “Levioso is a charm not a defensive spell.”

Graham shrugged as he swayed around and dropped into an armchair. “It’s also a spell we learned in Charms class at the end of our first year, but Defense covered it in second. We spent more of our time learning about ‘Dark creatures.’’ He scoffed. “Since the Ministry requires at least three spells be learned every year, Levioso was one of the picks. Nevermind that it makes more sense to use Wingardium Leviosa. You can levitate more weight, which cancels out any of Levioso’s uses.”

“What were the other two?” Blaise asked.

“Incendio and Petrificus Totalus.”

“Useless,” said Theo. “Incendio does not have any range on it. An enemy would have to be right up on you before it’s useful and Petrificus Totalus is the same. It’s good if you have a form of invisibility, but no good when you don’t.”

“Levioso also targets the clothes not the person,” said Hadrian. “It’s more of a supportive spell rather than a combat spell. It can be used in combat, but there are better options.”

“Try telling the Defense teacher that,” Adrian snorted.

“How’s the Quidditch team shaping up?” Draco asked eagerly.

“Looking good, Marcus got on as Keeper. You should have seen the spill he got into with the Gryffindor Keeper, Wood. It was nasty.” Graham cheered.

“Kinda impressed though, Wood isn’t the burliest bloke. You don’t have to like him to respect the stones he has. Much better than ‘Puff and ‘Claws who play so boringly,” said Terry. “I was tapped for Seeker, they couldn’t get anyone else small enough. I’m not very good at it though, I’d rather be a Chaser with Cassius. But they only had one Chaser position open and Cassius is better.”

Hadrian pressed back into Blaise’s arms. He was happy to hear that Marcus, Cassius, and Terry got to play on the school’s team. They had been eager to join last year when they found out that there would be openings this year. He just wishes they had told him the great news themselves instead of not writing.

“Gryffindor has a good team,” said Adrian with a slight annoyance. “Wood certainly knows what he’s doing. He’s such a Quidditch fanatic that I wouldn’t be surprised if he goes pro after Hogwarts. I heard he’ll be captain of the Gryffindor team next year.”

Draco leaned forward. “I’d love to try for Seeker. Whenever I’m staying here without mother we go flying all around the valleys and mountains. Hadrian’s good too.”

Hadrian shook his head. “I like flying but I don’t want to play Quidditch. I’d rather watch.”

“You would make a killer Seeker though,” Terry pointed out. “Much better than me. I don’t have the eye for it. I have better reflexes for throwing.”

“Unfortunately first years aren’t allowed to try out,” said Graham.

“Why the bloody hell not?” Draco asked, affronted.

“Didn’t you know, Draco? You have to be sensitive to those Muggleborns,” Theo sneered. “If they can’t fly yet, surely you can’t either.”

“It wouldn’t be fair to Muggleborns who hadn’t learned to fly yet,” Terry mocked, and everyone laughed at that. “Just wish we had a Captain as into the job as the bloody Gryffindors. Hackett just wants us to commit fouls and knock everyone out of the skies for no reason.”

Adrian shook his head. “Knocking out others is fun, but winning is better. If we can get enough of us on the team we might be able to strong arm him and change it.”

“I didn’t know you made the team.” Blaise looked at him and the redhead shook his head.

“Not enough open spots this last year. I want to be a Beater and the ones we had this year were Hackett and his girlfriend who graduated with him. The other two current Chasers graduate next year.” Adrian said with a scowl. “At least this coming year I can try for one of the spots.”

“What about Marcus?” Hadrian piped in. “He’s as obsessed as Draco, maybe even more so with the way he can get heated.” Marcus was a bit of a hothead. A bit was being nice. “He knows every statistic and rule going back to the first reported Quidditch game. He spent a whole year’s allowance on a 200 year old memory. His mother was furious over that one.”

“I’m not that versatile in the air. I like to fly but I don’t want to put up with getting smashed in the face by a Bludger. Hate the Weasleys and blood traitors all you want, but damn they were born to fly and be Beaters.” Adrian stated.

“The twins aren’t that bad,” said Terry. “Kinda funny. Did you see what they did to Wood’s Quidditch robes?”

“That was them?” Graham exclaimed, looking impressed.

“Apparently, Wood was lecturing them for two hours before a practice and the Weasley twins decided to charm his robes to be see through,” said Adrian smirking.

“Good body?” Blaise asked.

“Not bad,” Terry laughed.

“All that matters then.”

Before anyone could say any more the double doors to the library practically slammed open making Hadrian almost yelp in Blaise’s lap. Sooner than he could whip around to see who had done such a rude thing, a shrill pierced his ears making not only him but nearly everyone cringe.

“DRACOOO!” A flurry of brown and yellow whipped through the room and Draco slumped further when Pansy Parkinson came rushing forward. “There you are, Draco!” She left the door wide open and they could see people milling about. “I was looking for you all over the place! Your mother said I would find you here… why didn’t you wait for me? I know we arrived close together. Once Lady Malfoy told my mother when you were set to arrive, we planned our timing.” She was quickly at his side, ignoring Hadiran, and Draco had slumped further against Theo who had too much sympathy to push him off.

“Rude, Parkinson!” Graham scowled at her. “Haven’t you been taught not to slam doors and yell when you’re a guest in other people’s homes?” he chastised.

“A good Pureblood always knocks before entering rooms that have closed doors,” Terry added. Everyone ignored the fact that none of the boys had knocked. “Even the Weasleys know that. She hasn’t even greeted the birthday boy. The reason we are all gathered.” Hadrian didn’t really want to greet her, but Terry had a point. It was rude to attend a party, enter a room uninvited and not even offer birthday wishes to the celebrant.

Pansy gave what she must have thought was a cute pout, but it was anything but. Her face had the distinction of looking like a pug without the cuteness. Hadrian supposed some people would find her pleasant if she kept her mouth shut, but the shrill was her every day voice. It matched her even shriller mother’s voice. Her father was more wheezy and always had a pipe in his mouth. The girl had fluttery fine brown hair that was cropped perfectly at the chin. Her nose was small and puffy in her round face. She was the epitome of hoity-toity even in a relaxed setting. Her ‘facade’ to the public was her real nature. She looked down on everyone or at least tried to. Nevermind she wasn’t nearly as wealthy or noble as she or her family thought they were. She was wearing bright yellow silk robes that would be more flattering on a young lady who had some curve. As Pansy was only eleven it didn’t set right. She was dressed like an adult, and it didn’t flatter her one single bit.

“Can’t even be bothered to greet your host first. Good Merlin, you’re acting like an uncivilized Muggle.”

“Don’t be mean, Adrian! I greeted Lord Rookwood. It’s not my fault Harry wasn’t there.” She stomped her foot.

“It’s Pucey to you, we’re not friends,” snapped the usually jovial teen.

“Harry? My name is Hadrian, Parkinson, and you haven’t even been given leave to use that.” Hadrian wouldn’t normally force the issue of being called Rookwood by others outside of his friend group, but he was very against being called ‘Harry’ like some kind of Muggle.

“Harry… Hadrian… what’s the difference? My mother says you were named Harry by your birth mother and thus that’s what you should be called.”

“My name is Hadrian.” He sat up from where he was leaning against Blaise, back stiff in frustration. He could feel Blaise rub a hand along his lower back trying to calm him down slightly.

“There’s no reason to be upsetting the birthday boy, Parkinson. Do leave us alone.” Blaise spoke up.

“Draco, they’re being so mean to me! How can you be friends with such mean boys?” She pouted, reaching for his hand only for him to draw back and tuck it away against Theo.

“Parkinson - we’re trying to have a conversation and you’ve rudely interrupted us. Adrian is right. You are being rude and uncivilized.”

“Have you ever heard of shutting a door?” Blaise said irritably. “If you aren’t going to leave us alone, at least you could show enough noble dignity to do proper actions.”

Hadrian waved his hand causing the door to slam, making Pansy flinch and turn to look at him open mouthed.

“I’m not the one sitting on your lap like a baby. How unseemly,” she sniffed.

“You’re in my house. I can be unseemly,” said Hadrian flatly as Blaise tightened his hold on Hadrian. “Maybe I’ll let Lucius and Cissa know just how improper you are and they could think twice about future arrangements with your house? I’m sure all the adults would love to hear how Muggle you’ve been acting since forcing your way into this room.”

Pansy paled and Draco peaked his head up from Theo’s shoulder, hopeful.

“The Malfoys really do like you, Hadrian…” Blaise drawled. “I bet your word would mean a lot to them.”

“Th-that’s unnecessary, I was just excited to see my future fiancee.”

“I’m not your future anything yet, Pansy,” Draco said tightly. “Just because our mothers are friends from Hogwarts doesn’t mean anything.”

“But, Draco…!” She batted her eyes at him and he huffed. “It’s all but signed and sealed. I have a really good feeling about our future together! I’ve read it in my tea leaves multiple times. Mother says I have a knack for Divination.” Hadrian held back a laugh at feeling Blaise bury his head into his neck, body shaking in his effort to hide his own giggles. It was a well known secret among the Dark noble families that the Parkinson family had once had seer blood in their line until they crossed a Dark family and got cursed. Ever since then no Parkinson has been able to do divination, but every generation someone born in the family claimed to be the one to break the curse and bring it back. Seems like Pansy has taken that stance.

“Put a fuckin’ lid on it will you, stupid bint?” snarled a voice that made all the small hairs on the back of Hadrian’s neck stand on end. They all ignored the gasp of outrage from Pansy at the use of the derogatory word.

Hadrian turned slowly to look over at the entrance as his heart jerked when the door slid open and then shut again revealing the two that he hadn’t spoken to in over a year.

“Good Merlin, what the bloody hell is Hogwarts feeding you?” Draco scoffed. “And why didn’t Terry get any of that?”

“Excuse you, I grew!”

“Up, sure, but you’re as skinny as a twig.” Adrian chuckled, poking Terry in the side.

Normally, Hadrian would have jumped right in on that, but he couldn’t quite form words on his tongue. It was like it’d escaped out into the mass of people invading his home.

Indeed, both of the boys stepping into the room now had grown impressively. Annoyance flared with the flutter and jerk of his heart. His face went blank completely as he observed the two of them.

Marcus Flint and Cassius Warrington. Hadrian wondered who they even were these days. It was like he’d never met them before and that upset him. A strange war brewed inside of him as the two moved with a confidence that only Blaise could possess so naturally at a young age.

Marcus was impossibly tall and the largest boy in the room. He was taller than Graham and looked like he was growing where he stood. His shoulders were wide and broad. He’d always had a good amount of natural muscle on him. His father was naturally muscled too, but it was obvious he’d been bulking up over the school year. Hadrian thought his father had once said they had Nordic Viking blood in them. His hair was a dark brown, short on the sides and an inch or two more on top that stood up. No gel or anything needed to make it perfect. Marcus hated weird smells and gunk in his hair. His Mother had tried to force a nightly skin care routine on him and he all but lashed out at her. For most people, Marcus wasn’t what you would call good looking or even handsome, but he was striking. His strong set of cheekbones and nose showed his Pureblood heritage. A mix of Black and Flint genetics could be seen in the darkness of his eyes. They were so dark a blue they looked almost black. He had a heavier, more prominent brow that looked like he was always angry and a strong jaw. Marcus’ mouth was often set in a snarl, rarely did it ever relax. Draco had never seen more than a snarl, same could be said for everyone in the room except Hadrian and Cassius. Hadrian was sure that he was probably going to be the most masculine looking man of everyone in their friend group.

He walked duck footed, like his father, because his feet were big and his body really strong. Even as a smaller child, Marcus was naturally strong. He had a slim and toned waist that showed he had no fat on him whatsoever. Now looking at him, Hadrian could tell he had gained muscles along his arms and chest even though it was hidden by the fine black robes with dark blue velvet collar that he wore. Beneath the cloak was a deep blue silk button down. The shirt was buttoned all the way up to his throat and his strong neck did not look right with it fully buttoned. Hadrian thought the first button at the top should be undone to enhance his collarbone and best features. If he wasn’t so cross, stuck between feeling upset and his heart pounding, he’d jump up and fix it.

Even though Blaise would say: Pureblood genetics tended to breed ‘pretty men’ with a daintiness to them, Marcus defied all of that. Blaise said it was likely because of their chosen wives. All small and dainty, not much curve, except his own mother, and oftentimes fragile and delicate. A perfect noble Pureblood woman in Great Britain was supposed to have ‘lily white’ hands that didn’t lift more than a teacup because they had others to do the work for them. Hadrian thought the idea was silly. Especially since there were many great Pureblooded ladies that didn’t fit that description. Lady Zabini, Lady Montague and even Lady Warrington among them.

Hadrian shifted his attention to the other teen who entered the room with Marcus, Cassius Warrington. He was a half-American half-British Dark Pureblood. He almost didn’t go to Hogwarts but his father said that all Warringtons attended Hogwarts and his heir wasn’t going to stop the tradition. His mother’s family was from Texas and he spent part of the year there growing up so he had an interesting accent that was a cross between an American Southerner and Londoner.

Hadrian had always been fascinated by the southern drawl that often came out of his mouth. Cassius had a lot of cousins and relatives that lived in Texas. All the family he had here was his father. The Aurors had killed the rest of the Warrington family during the war, nevermind that only Callum had been a part of the whole ordeal.

Cassius had a strong chin and a not quite squarish jawline that had matured much more rapidly than what he had last year. He still had a bit of fat in his cheeks, not yet sculpted like his father. His eyes were pretty blue like clear spring skies. His honey blond hair curled along his ears and at the ends. It wasn’t as short as he usually had it and that was probably because of being at Hogwarts. No one was there to cut it for him. Hadrian could see the natural waves that his father had were starting to intermingle from the curl. He wasn’t quite as tall as Marcus, closer to Graham in height. He didn’t have a lot of muscle definition yet. He was slim, but not slim like Hadrian. He often walked with a gait that balanced a feeling of hail-fellow-well-met and confidence. His robes were a well tailored gray on black with bits of blue along the neck, shoulders, and waist. His boots were made from dragonhide.

It took some doing but Hadrian turned away from them and leaned back against Blaise’s chest. He wasn’t going to get up to greet them. He didn’t even know them anymore, why should he? Instinctually, he pulled some of Blaise’s braids around to play with to keep himself busy as the two boys made their way through the room.

Pansy drew back. Hadrian didn’t have to see Marcus to know that he terrified her.

“I-”

“Yah not wanted here, get,” Cassius drawl came out. “If you can’t even greet your host like a respectable Pureblood then you don’t belong in his presence.”

“How dare you. I’m supposed to be treated like a princess, especially being the only girl in this room,” Pansy sulked.

“You’re not the ‘only’ anything. Go away or I’ll throw you out,” Marcus growled, causing Pansy to nearly jump a foot in the air.

For once, she went quiet, her mouth trembled with the rest of her, and she bolted from the room. Cassius closed the door gently before casting a charm to lock it. It wasn’t enough to keep any of the adults out, but it would stop other children at the party.

“Thank you!” Everyone but Hadrian chorused.

“You’re like bloody Merlin, mate!” Draco cheered.

“Her’s and my mother are too fuckin’ friendly with each other. I’ve had about enough of their shit,” said Marcus, falling heavily into an armchair close to Hadrian.

“Oh, maybe your mother will take Parkinson off my hands.” Draco perked up.

“Not happening,” Marcus stated. “I’d kill her before that could happen.”

Hadrian stayed perched ramrod straight against Blaise with his eyes forward. He barely remembered what had transpired between Pansy and the rest of them now that they were here. He didn’t flinch but he drew a sharp breath when Cassius’ warm hand squeezed at his shoulder. It was a brief movement and Hadrian focused on the teen’s perfect waist instead of looking up as he passed by and sat on the arm nearest Hadrian with Marcus. His knee shifted, legs spread open as he perched on the chair, and was in almost perfect view of where Hadrian was looking.

“Precious, you're turning my braids into a knot,” Blaise leaned forward and whispered into his ear. Hadrian dropped the beautiful braids and they shushed with a sway.

“I can’t believe her audacity,” Graham shook his head. “You’d think she’d have at least been taught some manners. Just give this memory to your parents, Draco, I’m sure they’ll rethink their views.”

“How dare she call Hadrian, ‘Harry’ of all things,” Adrian shook his head.

“She did?” Cassius’ voice dipped a bit low, a small break showed that his voice was beginning to change. Hadrian did his best to ignore how the sound of Cassius’ voice affected him inside.

“Yes.”

“Fuck her,” Marcus snarled.

“What is with this party anyways? I’ve seen far too many Light families here,” said Cassius.

“You know how it is, Cassius, an eleven year old’s magical birthday is a good enough excuse to bring out the networking,” said Blaise for Hadrian who still couldn’t get the lump out of his throat. Hadrian still didn’t look at the older two teens, instead focusing on the fireplace that sat directly in front of them. The flames had already eaten all of the cards Draco and he had thrown in earlier.

“It’s why we’re hiding,” Theo offered. Draco was still slumped against Theo, and both seemed to be comfortable enough not to bother moving.

“Father said that with the Board of Governors starting to shape up that they feel now is the time to try and slowly begin building some bridges,” Draco offered.

“But why? What use are they?” Marcus asked.

“The Dark are small in number,” Hadrian found himself saying before he could stop it. “Too small to make much headway. The Rookwood name has always been synonymous with neutrality, and we need more Neutrals leaning our way if we want to get things fixed and stop the Light from ruining everything.”

“There are still far more Neutral magicals out there than even Light, and that can work in our favor if they’re not so easily swayed,” said Blaise. “Most schools that aren’t Hogwarts tend to focus on Neutral magics.”

“Uagadou focuses on all three equally,” said Graham. “My great Grandmother was an Onai before her family migrated to Italy in her fifth year.”

“The Onai’s are esteemed Seers,” Blaise added. “You could have used that to put Parkinson in her place.”

“I don’t need her to become obsessed with me next,” Graham shuddered.

“Oh why not? At least your mother wouldn’t try and push it on you,” said Draco.

Before Graham could respond, the door slid open once more. “Here you all are,” said Augustus. Hadrian turned to see his father coming into the room as everyone straightened to try and look more presentable. “No need to straighten on my account.” He chuckled good naturedly at them making everyone relax. Draco let out a sigh and sagged back down against Theo. “I haven’t told Narcissa you made Miss Parkinson cry.”

“He didn’t, I did,” said Marcus.

“Either way. It’s time to be seen, precious,” said Augustus with a smile. “Supper and tea is being served, and no one can eat without you, the birthday boy.”

Hadrian wanted to pout, but instead he nodded. It would give him a good excuse to get some space between him, Cassius, and Marcus. He could feel the two boy’s stares settle on him. He hopped off Blaise’s knee and the boy’s hand went down his back as he moved.

He turned just as Cassius stood and they were suddenly in each other’s personal space. He looked up into those sky blue eyes before he could stop it, and it set his stomach ablaze with wide-winged butterflies.

“Hadrian-” Cassius didn’t smile but he was looking at him as if seeing him again for the first time. He made to bring his hand up to touch Hadrian’s cheek only for Hadrian to turn toward his father and duck away.

“Let’s go, Dad, I hope the house-elves made pork chops.” Hadrian looped his arm with Blaise’s and pulled the pre-teen after him.

Augustus spotted the tension in his son’s shoulders and the unusual blankness in his eyes, but did not comment on it. “Mesquite with that spicy seasoning you like so much.” Cassius’ mother had introduced him to Louisiana and Cajun flavors. He never knew that black beans and rice could actually taste so good. Hadrian was never a fan of beans before that.

If he were being honest, he liked Cassius’ mother the best out of everyone. She was a laid back but no less classy lady who was jolly and good natured all at the same time. She did not have that air of stuffy nobility that everyone had. Even Lady Zabini, who Hadrian regarded as another favorite, could give off those vibes when she wanted. But not Susanna, call me Suzie in private. She made Callum smile in a way that softened his face to that of a child. He was more devoted to her than Hadrian had ever seen a couple to ever be. Rodolphus had once joked that they were sickeningly cute. She did not allow house-elves to be employed in her home or kitchen. Callum had a house-elf, but she refused to let them do any work for her or Cassius. Callum’s house-elf was more like a man’s servant and gardener in one, helping with little things outside of the manor and taking care of the grounds.

Being this distant with Marcus and Cassius was really doing a number on him. He wanted everything to be all right again. He wasn’t so sure if it would be, because in a month he would be sorted and then what?

Chapter Text

Chapter Four

“We love the things we love for what they are.”

― Robert Frost

Hadrian had always found it tasteless when witches and wizards he did not know nor care about would gift him presents only to curry favor with his father or to even try and make a connection so that the stranger’s daughter would have a hope of ending up in a contract with a Rookwood. He might not be as popular as Malfoy, but Rookwood was still a big name that was ‘neutral’ enough that even a few Light families would try and get some sort of connection formed. Noble houses garnered all kinds of interest and intrigue. From the smallest of Noble houses to the most prestigious.

He played the perfect and poised Pureblood birthday boy who could not wait to go Hogwarts once his father dragged them out of the Library. It meant that he didn’t have time to mingle more with his friends. He was introduced briefly to the Minister of Magic and his family as well as very briefly crossing paths with the lonesome Bartemius Crouch Snr. He was introduced and greeted more wizards and witches that he couldn’t be bothered to remember. He heard a lot of conversation between groups regarding the Wizengamot, various laws, and Hogwarts.

At least the pork chops were delicious and the pudding even better. He was even allowed to drink some sweet summer strawberry wine from a delicate crystal flute. Anyone who had crossed the age of eleven in the magical world were allowed to have a glass of wine so long as their parents agreed. Blaise sometimes drank more than that, catching Narcissa’s disapproval when his mother poured him a second glass without asking.

Zenyatta looked breathtaking today in her form-fitting gold dress that made her skin shine beneath the lights. Blaise mentioned she had left her dark gold open robe cape with the house-elves. The dress was so tight around her hips and perfect small waist with a side slit up to her upper thigh that there was no room for imagination on what she was wearing beneath the dress, or rather what she wasn’t wearing. Lighter gold panels lined the heart shaped bodice of the dress. All her assets were on display in the most tasteful and exotic way. She was not immodest in the slightest. She had bangles around her dark skinned wrists and a couple of golden chokers with a white thumb shaped diamond square in the middle. When she turned Hadrian could see that there was no back to the dress and he marveled at the use of magic to keep the dress on. Her black hair was swept up in a slick ponytail that ‘twirled’ down her back touching at the edge of the dress where it covered her very round, accentuated bottom. In the center of that twirl was a thick blonde strand. Hadrian knew it was a charm and not her natural hair color.

“Hello, precious Hadrian. Happy birthday, darling. I trust my son has been keeping you in good spirits.” She generated a lot of healthy sneers from ladies and wandering eyes from men that were apparent to even Hadrian when she wrapped him into her arms and pulled him in tight like Blaise liked to do. She gave him a wink before dipping down to give him a flush worthy kiss that men far older would stand in line for weeks for. Hadrian enjoyed the spark of Dark magic that occurred when she did, he didn’t mind that she held it longer than would be proper. She didn’t even smear her gold lipstick.

“Of course I have, mother. Don’t be silly.” Blaise teased from Hadrian’s side as Zenyatta pulled back.

“How do you walk in those shoes?” Hadrian asked as his eyes glanced down and he saw her tall gold stilettos.

“Very carefully. Blaise, come. I want to introduce you to someone before we sit for food.” Hadrian could only wave as Blaise was forced to follow his mother. Neither were worried that the introduction was marriage related, Zenyatta had been very vocal that Blaise should be allowed to choose his future intended in his own time.

It seemed that Hadrian’s birthday was going to be a success. At least for his father and those who were working overtime networking.

Lady Susanna Warrington greeted him with a warm hug and the warmest smile in the room when he got around to greeting her. She had the same blue eyes as Cassius, but she had a softer and rounder face. Today her blonde hair was piled high on her head and she wore an open sunflower shade robe that was only a few shades darker than her hair. It had shorter sleeves that fluttered along the edge of her shoulders. Underneath the sunflower robe was a little black dress that was a little shorter than it should have been given current British fashion.

Dresses and gowns had come into fashion for the ladies of the magical world, and particularly garments that exposed shoulders. Narcissa was still refusing to wear such a thing along with a few other staunch robe wearers, but Hadrian liked the variety. He appreciated all the colors and using clothes to show who they were and that they were not all stiff and rigid.

“Hello, sweetheart.” She and Cassius were the only two who called him sweetheart instead of precious. He liked the change and how natural it was coming from them.

“Good to see you again, Suzie,” he said softly so that his voice didn’t carry.

She beamed at him and kissed his forehead. “Happy Birthday, Hadrian. I hope you enjoyed the robes I sent you.”

He nodded, they were American in cut and style and his favorite was the dark gray sleeved cloak with black velvet around the thick collar and sleeves. The back was emblazoned with a golden thunderbird. “I love them, especially the cloak.”

“Cassius was insistent that you have the thunderbird instead of the eagle. So really it was his gift to you.”

“Was it?”

“Oh yes, he’s been so distracted lately. Teens,” she said with a slight smile as if telling a giant secret. “He’s at that age now where he’s questioning everything and trying to figure things out.” Hadrian didn’t know what to say to that and chose not to say anything at all because what could he? “My family just had to see him the moment he came off the train this year. So he’s been in Texas until now. We just got back on Wednesday.”

“I thought he was more tan,” he chose to add. He’d never been to Texas, but it’d been described enough that he had a pretty good imagination of what the heat and sun was like.

“It’s not easy for Cassius, most of the family is all ladies after all. He’s the first boy born to the Callahan family in many generations. It was a big deal.”

“Your maiden name is Callahan?” Hadrian asked.

“It is,” she said proudly. “We are one of the oldest families in the United States. Not very well known on this side of the pond, but I believe they are about as old as the Blacks. They hailed from Canada back before the United States became what it is today.”

Other cultures and countries were truly fascinating for Hadrian. He’d learned a lot about Italy from Blaise and Graham, who also sometimes shared about his mother’s extended family who still lived in Somalia. While both boys were part Italian their families were from different regions in the country. Blaise would also share about the region of France his father was from.

Hadrian’s eyes naturally slid past the chatting Susanna. She liked to talk a lot. Hadrian didn’t mind, but his attention was taken by a scene that bothered him. It was Lady Flint and she looked like she was getting drunk while berating Marcus who stood there silent and snarling. Lady Flint kept gesturing to the ladies she was speaking to, causing some of them to laugh. Marcus just glared at her not saying a word. Where was Morpheus? Looking around it seemed most of the men seemed to have vanished after the meal.

All the annoyance and hurt in the world could not stop Hadrian’s feet as he gently touched Susanna’s arm to dismiss himself as he swept toward the crowd that consisted of Parkinson, Bulstrode, and Flint ladies.

“-it’s a shame really. His grades are deplorable, Exceeds Expectations at best, but what does his father care? Now, if he’d been a girl and took after more of my side-”

Hadrian didn’t bother to speak to the three of them. Known for their borderline impropriety and distasteful manners, Hadrian had to place himself above them. Instead, he curved around on Marcus’ muscled side and slipped his arm through the crook of his, causing Marcus to flinch and drop his head down. His dark blue eyes slightly softened and his tenseness relaxed.

“Now, Lady Flint, I do hope you are not causing a scene in Lord Rookwood’s castle of all places.” Susanna had obviously caught on quickly what was happening. Marcus and Cassius were best friends after all. “Quite distasteful of you if this were so. I do not expect Lord Flint would be pleased with your behavior.”

Lady Flint’s eyes rounded a bit as Susanna smiled ever so sweetly. “I wouldn’t dream of such a thing…” and then she had to control what looked like a burp as she touched her throat. “I was just saying-”

“Marcus promised to tell me all about the runes elective he signed up for. So I’m just going to borrow him now.” Hadrian interrupted and did not give the woman or anyone else time to degrade Marcus further. He pulled the taller teen away as Susanna took all the attention from the ladies and started to lecture all three of them quite vocally, making Narcissa look over sharply. Her eyes keen as she watched Lady Warrington dress down everyone including Mrs. Parkinson. The Parkinson family had lost their noble standing at the end of the war and had yet to reclaim it.

“Hadrian…”

Hadrian shook his head as he guided them through several rooms away from the on-lookers and nosy busybodies. He still hadn’t said a single word to Marcus directly but that wouldn’t stop him from always being at Marcus’ side when he was needed. He was mad at him, yes, but he still loved and adored all his friends.

Hadrian didn’t stop as they headed through the halls to the kitchens that no one ever bothered to enter but him. It was a bright and cheerful place. All the house-elves stopped what they were doing and they squealed their delight as they rushed Hadrian.

“Master Hadrian!” “Young master!” “It is a pleasure to see you!” “What can Mindy do you for you?” “Hestor would love to serve the young master and his partner!” “Young master is Dobby’s not Hestor’s.”

Hadrian chuckled and bent down to touch each of them on the top of the head. “A bowl of strawberries if you wouldn’t mind.” Strawberries were Marcus’ favorite fruit. “And don’t let anyone but our friends come out back, okay?”

A chorus of agreement came before a crystal bowl of the freshest most plump strawberries was pressed into his free arm. Dobby presented Hadrian with some whipped cream without even asking. Marcus took that before they continued on outback.

The sun was still up despite the hour and you could hear the whippoorwills and hummingbirds. A familiar heat pressed in around them as they made it out into the back garden full of benches, hedges, and flowers. You could see fog in the distance if you really looked, swirls of smoke coming up off the mountain tops where the temperatures didn’t care to follow the lowland trends. A garden of plump and healthy vegetables sat to their left; carefully attended to daily by Dobby. It was one of his favorite hobbies. Most of the vegetables served the household only and the elves could eat as much of it as they wanted.

Hadrian walked around a hedge and took a seat on a stone bench. Here they would be out of sight of the doorway, but still close enough to hear if anyone came out looking for them. The hedge also helped block some of the setting sun from getting into their eyes. Hadrian knew once it was low enough magical lights would start glowing around the space.

Hadrian looked up at Marcus and stretched out the bowl in offering. Marcus’ natural scowl and snarly face vanished. “Hadrian…” He bumbled over and flopped down beside Hadrian with all his weight.

“Your favorite.”

“That’s not my favorite,” said Marcus, staring at him thoroughly.

“I’m sure it is,” said Hadrian, knowing he wasn’t meaning the strawberries.

“I’m sorry.”

“I’m upset.”

“I know.”

“I’m going to be mad for a while,” said Hadrian, setting the bowl on his knees and pulling one out, dipping it into the cream still held by Marcus, and popping it into his mouth as he deflowered it. He tossed the flower over to the side and it vanished before it touched the ground.

Marcus finally picked one up. He looked away as he popped the whole thing in his mouth, pulled out the flower top, and tossed it carelessly too. “I don’t get it.”

“Don’t get what?” Hadrian asked. “Get the fact that it takes one maybe two minutes to pick up a quill and parchment to send me a note? Even if it’s a single line of words? Or you know, don’t send me words, send me Herakles and that would be enough.” Herakles was Marcus’ stately screech owl. He was as cantankerous as his owner, but liked Hadrian and Cassius enough not to try and rip their fingers off so long as he was given a treat or two.

“Why would you want me to?” Marcus asked him.

“Don’t pull that. You know better.”

“Do I?” He grunted and then shook his head.

“I would hope you would not clump me in with the likes of your mother, Marcus,” said Hadrian crossly. “I’ve been going through a lot of things and could have used a word or two from you or Cass, but you both ignored me and my letters to you. Acted like I didn’t exist anymore.”

“That isn’t true,” said Marcus gruffly. “It’s been a weird year. I kept all your letters.”

It felt to Hadrian like Marcus was leaving something out. “I know I’m a lot younger than you, but you and Cass are special - least I thought you knew that.”

“Why?” asked Marcus. “I can see Cassius, but me? What the hell, Hadrian?”

“What hell, Marcus?” Hadrian reiterated and the two stared at each other. A cross between a glare and something else.

Marcus huffed and considered things as he looked up at the butterflies that were congregating on the bushes near them. Hadrian’s eyes fixated on the stupid button that looked like it was cutting his throat in two. He couldn’t stand it. He sat the strawberries between their legs so they didn’t fall and he reached over to unbutton the top causing Marcus’ eyes to slide over to look at him. Hadrian undid the second button freeing his neck and collarbone. Really, the difference two measly buttons could make on a guy. Hadrian’s fingers trailed along the newly freed collarbone lightly. “You have a very handsome collarbone. You should always expose it.”

“Mother did that just before we apparated over. I think she was trying to choke me to death,” Marcus grumbled.

“I figured that.” He dropped his hands and picked up the bowl of strawberries when Marcus’ arm swooped around his small waist to draw him into his side. He said not a word and Hadrian stiffened briefly only to relax against him. Marcus was a guy of few words.

Hadrian dipped one of the strawberries into the cream only for Marcus’ strong hand to snatch his wrist. His hand was big enough that he swallowed Hadrian’s wrist. He brought it to his mouth and bit into it.

Hadrian smiled, feeling his heart lighten considerably. He was still hurt, but Marcus was Marcus. He was as direct as he was gruff. Most people were off-put by him, but Hadrian had always been the type who would simply sit on him whether he liked it or not and force him to cuddle.

“Don’t eat the flower again.” He dropped the end into the bowl as Marcus enclosed around him.

“What have you been upset over?” Marcus asked him.

“I might not be a Slytherin. I don’t really know what I am and it’s really bothered me. Everyone else knows where they’re going. But where the bloody hell am I going to go? What’s going to happen with everyone when I don’t get in? And what if I’m a Gryffindor?” He whispered this part so quietly that Marcus almost missed it.

“It’s not gonna matter,” said Marcus.

“How can you say that?” Hadrian asked, tilting his head. “For as long as I can remember we’ve all made fun of every other house or looked down upon them. Except for Ravenclaw sometimes because of Dad, but even he pokes fun at his old house every now and then.”

“Maybe it’s best ya don’t get into Slytherin, Hadrian,” said Marcus, cocking his head thoughtfully.

“What do you mean?” Hadrian asked.

Marcus was quiet a moment and then he shrugged. “Not gonna say.”

Hadrian laughed and shook his head. “Marcus! Come on, tell me more.”

“Hmmm. No.” Hadrian elbowed him causing him to grunt and then smirk playfully.

Hadrian dipped his finger into the whipped cream and then placed some onto his nose. “Hmph!” Trust Marcus to start a thought and then refuse to finish it. A lot of people thought Marcus was simple minded or stupid, but that wasn’t true. Hadrian knew Marcus had been learning arithmancy from Hadrian’s dad for a few summers now. He was good with numbers and had a keen intelligence that he never showed off. Sometimes, his mind ran a gamut faster than his mouth could articulate. Hadrian knew this because he was a bloody good writer. He could write things better than he could say it. Hadrian blamed Marcus’ mother entirely for this. He used to write to Hadrian and Cass all the time. They once had a connecting journal, the three of them, but Marcus’ mother had found it and burned it. Hadrian still didn’t know why she did it.

“I am sorry,” said Marcus softly. He could see it in Marcus’ eyes that he was sorry. Hadrian still didn’t understand why Marcus couldn’t tell him what was going on. He knew something was off. Something was missing, but what?

“I know. I wouldn’t be mad if it was meaningless.” He squeezed Hadrian tighter, almost making him lose the air in his lungs.

Hadrian felt him before he saw him. Hadrian looked up and saw him silhouetted by the sun. The figure came closer and his back finally blotted out the deep orangey yellow. The smell of expensive cognac cologne wafted towards them.

“I thought I’d find you here when I heard the elves swooning,” said Cassius, with a sideways good natured smile that he had once called a ‘cowboy grin’. Hadrian had never met a cowboy and didn’t know what one even was. Even his dad was at a loss when he asked the man what a cowboy was. Rodolphus said it was some American thing to do with a hat and boots.

Cassius slid smoothly along the bench until he was hugged right up against Hadrian who frowned at him. “Don’t do that, sweetheart.” Cassius dropped a kiss on Hadrian’s cheek, making him scowl slightly. A kiss wasn’t going to make up for a year of no contact. The teen reached over and grabbed a strawberry, plucked the flower top and tossed it into his mouth.

“He’s angry at us,” said Marcus.

Cassius inclined his head. “We are sorry. It’s been a busy year. I was sent off straight to the states the moment I stepped off the train even though I asked to come see you first.”

Hadrian was unimpressed. “Your mom told me.” He was the only one of them who called his mother ‘mom’. Cassius could be such an American sometimes.

“You have cream on your nose, did you know?” Cassius asked Marcus who glared at him.

“I didn’t, obviously.” Cassius swiped it with a finger and then sucked it into his mouth with a smirk. Hadrian shook his head. “Hadrian worries he won’t be Slytherin.”

“That’s obvious,” said Cassius.

“Obvious?” Hadrian asked, frowning even deeper. “I haven’t seen you in over a year. How is that obvious? It’s not like I know you anymore.”

Cassius leaned down closer until they were nose to nose. “I know the house you’re going to be in, sweetheart. Any fool can see it.” He poked Hadrian in the chest gently where his heart was. “Stick this in your pocket. Do not look or open it until you’re sorted.” He then produced a thick envelope from seemingly nowhere. “Your real birthday gift is in here too. But don’t open it until September 1st after you are sorted.”

Hadrian reached up and took it, noticing the messy scrawl from Cassius’ handwriting. He could feel something inside of it, more than parchment. Something bulky. Now his curiosity was running. “Saying you’re a fool then, Cass?”

“Oh, sweetheart, we are all fools. Some more so than others. You don’t make things easy for us.”

“What are you talking about?” Hadrian asked. Cassius shook his head and exchanged a look with Marcus. Hadrian had to raise his head to look from one boy to the other. “What? What don’t I make easy?”

Neither boy elaborated, which really frustrated Hadrian to the point he was tempted to have a mini temper tantrum and stomp his feet. He’d done that only once before when he was about three or four and wanted a pony but his dad had refused. He’d kicked and pouted and stomped his feet and whined in a way that could rival Draco’s whining. His dad in a stroke of genius got down on the floor to mimic him and started to kick, stomp, and pout along with Hadrian. He even whined in the most horrible way. Exactly as Hadrian did. It looked ridiculous even to his childhood mind and he’d stopped, making his dad smile. Hadrian never did it again.

“You boys are bastards.”

“Yes.” Both answered, making Hadrian snicker when Cassius pulled him from Marcus and cupped the side of his cheek.

“I want my greeting now.”

Hadrian grumbled, kissed Cassius’ cheek, and snuggled into him as Marcus snatched the bowl of strawberries. He wrapped his arms around Cassius and buried his nose into the cognac scent. He could feel some small muscles starting to form on the teen. He grew warm as he cuddled up to Cassius who stroked his fingers through Hadrian’s hair. He wasn’t mad anymore, but he was confused. There were still things that he didn’t understand.

The last guests didn’t leave until nearly midnight. Hadrian had been disappointed when Marcus and Cassius had to leave. Cassius and Marcus had spent a long time snuggling him outside until Dobby came to warn Hadrian that a couple of guests he did not know were looking for him.

Blaise, Draco, and Theo were spending the night with him at least and they would be heading to Diagon Alley tomorrow with him to get their school supplies. Come to find out, Draco and Theo had been harassed all night after supper by Parkinson and Bulstrode. Hadrian hoped by tomorrow, after the scene Lady Flint made, that Narcissa might rethink her stance on Parkinson. Sadly Theo’s father wouldn’t likely care either way.

Hadrian was trying to stifle a yawn behind his hand as they climbed the stairs to his bedroom. They had all been offered their own rooms but had said they’d stay with Hadrian. Blaise always slept with Hadrian whenever they stayed over at each other’s house. Both of them were cuddle bugs and it allowed them to cuddle each other instead of stuffed animals. He, like Hadrian, also slept naked, but Draco and Theo were a whole lot more modest about that.

“But can you imagine how pissed Bulstrode and Parkinson would be if they knew that we got to sleep naked with you two? They might take it as betrayal…” Blaise grinned over his shoulder.

“You just want us to sleep naked for some weird reason,” said Draco.

“I’m thinking about it,” said Theo with a shrug. “If it did get back to the Bulstrodes… they’re one of those families who abhor same sex relationships the way most Muggleborns do. It could tip in my favor.”

Draco regarded him. “Not so sure about Parkinson’s family. I don’t think they would care because they’re gold diggers, they go where the money goes.”

“It’s really quite nice in the summertime. Silk sheets feel nice and cool against your sink. I’ve been doing it for a few years now. Dad and Dolphy do it all of the time.”

“They fuck, Hadrian, not just sleep,” Blaise teased causing Theo and Draco to burn red.

“Even when they don’t, they still sleep naked. I know Dolphy likes to bite Dad on the arse sometimes.” Draco and Theo choked as Blaise burst out laughing. “I know what ‘fuck’ means, guys. I got the Kneazles and Crups talk like you all did,” he rolled his eyes. “I just don’t know the exact process or why you’d bite someone on the arse. Dad said something about having a little pain with your pleasure, but he said it in his mysterious voice and didn’t say anything further.”

“So cute,” Blaise practically giggled but he turned it into a rolling snicker before it left his mouth.

“You’re both mad… bloody mad I tell you,” Draco grumbled.

“You don’t have to sleep naked, but know that Hadrian and I will. We’ll still let you cuddle up with us,” Blaise teased as they entered Hadrian’s room. As soon as the door closed Blaise started stripping out of his clothes, causing Draco and Theo to facepalm in a way that would make their parents chastise them.

“My bathroom is free for you to use. I have some spare pajamas for everyone if you want them,” Hadrian smiled sweetly as he went over and cracked his window so that Phoebe could get in in the morning. He had a golden stand in the room so that if she wanted she could sleep there. It held her food and water bowl, but she rarely ever used it except for during the winter months.

Hadrian began to pull the stuffed animals off his bed. He only slept with the ones that didn’t make noise or spit things out, but with the boys with him he didn’t need them. Blaise would happily replace them. He just didn’t want to ever roll over and wake up to a pile of glitter on his face or be awoken in the middle of the night to the roar of a tiger.

“Merlin, you have a lot of stuffed animals,” said Theo. Blaise and Draco went off to the bathroom. Blaise could be heard teasing Draco who kept telling him to shut up. He then spotted the book of poems that he’d given Hadrian. “Sorry about the lame gift. I didn’t know what to give you that would be unique.”

Hadrian blinked. “I love it, Theo.”

“Do you?” Theo asked. “I’m not good at gift giving. I never know what to give people. Even Draco is a struggle for me sometimes and we’ve known each other forever.”

“It’s a gift from you. That’s reason enough to like it. You like the poems, right?”

Theo nodded. “I think they hold a lot more history and culture in them than most written text because not many publishers look too deeply into poetry. Writers can get away with so much more and hide it behind flowery prose. Editors and publishers hear the word ‘poetry’ and will just skim over it and let it get published as is. You can hide a lot of things inside of poems, things that were supposed to be outlawed or forgotten. Mentions of rituals and spells that have been made illegal by the Light. Tales about the founders of Hogwarts that aren’t in any of the history books. Even descriptions of what places used to look like when magical creatures were free to roam about the country.”

“I’ve been reading a few each night. Probably won’t tonight, I am exhausted. My favorite was the one about the extinction of the black unicorn. How it was thought they were an evil omen but in reality they were the opposite. It was good luck if you were given the honor of glimpsing one.”

Theo nodded. “I thought you would. You seem to like magical creatures an awful lot.”

“I do,” said Hadrian cheerfully. “I even like mundane ones. Animals, magical or mundane, never do more or less than what their natures require of them. They live without care of what others think of them. It’s a nice way to live.”

“Something that is impossible in our world,” Theo agreed. He ran his finger along the bedpost.

“Exactly. So it’s nice to sit back and learn more about them and their natures and how they interact in the wild. I don’t mind reading to learn so long as it’s something I want to learn.”

“You could be a Ravenclaw.”

“I doubt it. Apparently Cass knows what house I’m going to be in,” he said, pulling out an envelope. “He doesn’t think it’s Slytherin.”

Theo blinked at him. “What house does he think you’ll be in?”

“I think he wrote it in here but he asked me not to open it until after the sorting.” He placed it in his drawer. “I’ve been a bit worried about it.”

“I don’t think it matters.”

“I’m afraid that it will,” said Hadrian.

Theo shook his head. “No it won’t. Not really. You can get away with a lot that we can’t get away with. I’m sure I’ll end up in Slytherin. No one in the Nott family has ever been anything but Slytherin, even those who married in.”

“But you are smart,” Hadrian pointed out. “You could be the Ravenclaw in our group, easy.”

“I won’t be,” said Theo solemnly. “But it would be nice to be considered. At least then that would make me different.”

“I think you already are. In a good way.” It was probably the longest conversation he’d had with Theo. He turned down his bed with all the covers and pillows. Some were feathery and some were thicker, depending on what he wanted to lay on or snuggle up to. “You want some pajamas? You don’t have to sleep naked.”

Theo let out a soft laugh. “I don’t know, the idea of angering the Bulstrodes and insulting them is a good motivator and can you imagine Lady Malfoy’s reaction if she ever found out Draco slept naked?”

“I think it’s freeing and I like the contact with the sheet and duvet,” said Hadrian.

“It’s probably related to magic. Wizarding kind is stronger together than apart. Some of the strongest, most powerful rituals in the world require the touch of two or more gifted witches or wizards to channel their magic and make things happen.”

“BLAISE! You bloody wanker!” Draco came streaking out of the bathroom and Hadrian nearly fell against the bed giggling. Draco was naked and holding onto his own chest as he tried to get away from the black pre-teen who swayed out with a grin, holding a silk blue robe in his hands. He was naked for all to see and didn’t bother trying to cover anything like Draco.

His body was perfectly smooth and blemish free, not quite muscled yet but you could see that it could be with more exercise and growth. His skin seemed to shine in the light, just like how the gold and silver clasps in his hair twinkled. Hadrian figured Blaise put on a lotion or something to shine like that.

“He stole your robe? Come on, under the covers. I’ll protect your virtue,” Hadrian teased and Draco dived for the bed. Hadrian reached out and smacked him on the bottom causing Draco to yelp and pout.

“Hadrian!” He whined. “I thought you were on my side.”

“I am, but you’re being silly.”

Theo was now laughing so hard he was wheezing. His face had turned a bright red. “I- guess it’s my turn.”

“Robes are in the bathroom.”

“If you ask real nicely, I won’t steal it,” Blaise taunted as Theo shuffled passed.

Theo huffed. “Only if you let it get back to Bulstrode that you did. I’m far more desperate than Draco.”

Blaise laughed and flopped down on the bed on top of the covers and leaned back against Draco who was covered up with the silk sheets. “Hi there.”

Draco glared at him, hair free of gel now flopping into his face. “You bastard.”

“I’ll break you of your modesty one of these days, Draco. It’ll make your mother faint when she discovers how I corrupted her baby boy,” Blaise taunted making Draco glower at him.

“Cissa does seem to have a thing about the Zabini family.” Hadrian chuckled.

“She says Lady Zabini is too vulgar to be a good influence on anyone and she’s hoping that your friendship with Hadrian and I will save you from a similar fate.” Draco rolled his eyes, something he could only get away with when not with his mother. “She doesn’t realize it’s already too late to save your soul.”

Blaise shrugged. “It’s the way we Zabini are. It’s who we are. In our magic, in our power. But it’s also what we all are in the end, Draco. We are all sexual creatures by nature, that is how the population continues, every last one of us. It’s what we are born to do. Sex is a natural thing. Some just like it and embrace it more than others. Some feel it stronger than others, but it’s always there.”

“If you think about it a bit more,” said Theo, coming out with a bit more confidence than Draco. He was really thin and really adorable like Draco, Hadrian thought. “It was the Light side who started the whole modesty movement during the Victorian era. The Muggles started it during something they call the Regency era. It bled from the Muggleborns to the Light side. So really, your mother is thinking a bit too Light side about it all. We should be ourselves, not influenced by their culture or society.”

“It doesn’t bother you?” Draco asked, peeking around Blaise and Hadrian.

“It does a little,” said Theo with a shrug, “but Blaise is right. Sex is magic and magic is sex. I can’t help but wonder if more children would be born in our social group if we just let ourselves go and allow ourselves to feel rather than hold back. Look at Hadrian for example, if not Blaise or Lady Zabini.” He made it to the bed and Blaise smirked as he moved so that Theo could slide in beside Draco. “It made me stop to think - our conversation tonight, Hadrian.” He looked at Hadrian who smiled at him.

“You really could be a Ravenclaw, Theo. You are brilliant, kind of like my dad.” Hadrian kissed him on the cheek for the first time. “My turn!” He skipped off to the bathroom.

That night when Hadrian came out of the bedroom all the boys were already arranged in bed. Draco on the far end was cuddled to Theo’s back. Blaise and Theo had a space open between them for him.

“That’s not fair,” Blaise complained when Hadrian got onto the bed and began to crawl between their legs.

“What’s not?” Hadrian asked.

“Your skin glows so naturally. I have to use lotion to get this glow.”

“Does it? I haven’t noticed,” said Hadrian.

“It does,” Theo agreed as Hadrian settled between the two boys and slipped beneath the sheets. Already their warmth hugged at him and he could feel the spill of their cool magic playing at his toes. Hadrian swiped his fingers along Blaise, making the other boy shiver as Hadrian snuggled down.

“I can feel everyone’s heat and it doesn’t feel stifling despite being mid summer,” Draco hummed, pressing his mouth to Theo’s bony shoulder. “Maybe this isn’t so bad after all.”

“See?” Blaise said, leaning over top of Hadrian as he brushed a hand along Hadrian’s smooth flat belly. “You’re all so little, I’m the biggest one here. Told you so.” It didn’t take long for Hadrian to understand what he was talking about.

“Shut up,” Draco groaned.

“Naturally, we haven’t even started puberty yet,” said Theo.

Blaise chuckled. “I’m not making fun. Just stating a fact. I’m a black guy, it’s completely natural. I bet Graham is too.”

It took a bit of shuffling to get all of them situated comfortably in the bed. Sometimes, Hadrian entangled himself in the legs of those he slept with without meaning to. Theo rested on his back, with Draco curled over his left arm, thin right arm pressed right up against Hadrian’s. Hadrian shifted to face Blaise who’s purple eyes glowed in the soft twilight, as if magic fire was behind them. Blaise casually curled an arm around Hadrian’s waist, the two so comfortable in cuddling together that their nakedness didn’t faze them. Sometimes a summer breeze wafted in through the cracked window, and a hum that Hadrian seemed to only hear played in the air to vibrate against his body.

He could feel the soft sighs of the boys all around him as they all settled. He could feel them relaxing and his eyes grew heavy even as Blaise leaned in and kissed him on the lips. It was soft and chaste, but firm as Hadrian felt the magic press against him. He, like the others, soon fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter Five

“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe.”

― Albert Einstein

Diagon Alley wasn’t nearly as entrenched in magic as Hogsmeade and all of Hogsmeade Valley. Hadrian could feel something was entirely off about the cobblestone street that he had not noticed when he had last come here a few years ago. Something felt wrong with the alley, like there was some fragment broken as they stood just outside the Floo Shack that stood at the corner of Knockturn and Diagon Alley. It was amusing how different both roads of the magical marketplace looked. Hadrian didn’t see any need for the Dark magic of Knockturn to be so literal with how oily it felt compared to the more neutral and bright tones of Diagon Alley.

Lucius and Rodolphus were the last to arrive as Augustus charmed everyone’s robes to be free of soot. Blaise muttered under his breath about how he hated floo and much preferred portkeys. Draco was no fan either because of how dirty it made him but they weren’t supposed to take a portkey to Diagon Alley. It was magically possible, but it wasn’t recommended. The portkeyer could end up somewhere that they didn’t want to be or on top of a wizard or witch walking by at the exact point they land. It was too unpredictable. Apparation was out because while Augustus and Rodolphus could have split to take two each it was not recommended. Splinching was too easy when you had multiple bodies moving. Not to mention the chance of apparating into a space occupied by another person - no one wanted that mess.

Today Rodolphus was wearing robes in a tartan green with his hood brought up as he stepped out of the Shack. Hadrian could see only his mouth and end of the ponytail draped over his shoulder. “I’m heading to the Spiny Serpent. Find me there if you get separated from each other and lost.” He left quickly rounding the corner into the darker loamy street that started Knockturn Alley.

“What’s wrong with this place?” Hadrian asked softly, stepping forward and looking around. “It wasn’t like this last time.”

“Wrong?” Augustus asked, adjusting his dark blue Ministry robes.

“Yes, something feels off around here. Like it’s broken or fragmented.” Hadrian looked around.

“We are smack in the middle of bloody Muggle London,” said Lucius, nodding sharply as he came around on Draco’s side and pressed out a wrinkle of his perfectly tailored robes. He even reached over and fixed Theo’s collar that had gotten rumpled during the floo ride. Lucius, of course, looked perfect - not a hair out of place. Just like he always did when appearing in public places.

“Correct. It’s one of the more unstable hubs,” Augustus told him further. “Especially in recent years.”

“Indeed, you are likely feeling the lack of magic from Muggle London. It doesn’t help that Diagon Alley is the only magical street that allows Muggles entrance to help their magical children find school supplies,” Lucius said in disgust. “None of you have ever been near a Muggle so you would not know the dead feeling they tend to give off.” If he’d been a lesser man he would have shuddered.

“Hogsmeade has never had a Muggle in it,” said Augustus.

“Thank Merlin for that,” said Draco.

Hadrian however couldn’t help but admit that he was curious about Muggles. He knew some about them, but not much and his dad was right. He’d never been around one.

He understood what they were saying though and that may be part of it, but that was not quite all that he was feeling. He noticed the empty spots in the magic from the Muggles, any Pureblood in touch with their magic could, but that wasn’t all that was going on. It was like… the alley was intertwined with something else. Something that didn’t feel right at all.

“Draco, your mother will be along this evening. We’re all planning to have supper on High Street.” High Street was an exclusive area for witches and wizards with a lot of money to burn. It was a gated street that sat behind Gringotts so most did not know it existed. Especially Muggleborns. The Ministry of Magic didn’t like it being closed off and exclusive. Nor did many others who couldn’t afford the prices, but the Ministry did like the tax money that came from it and so they didn’t stop it. It was a five galleon toll to get in unless you had an exclusive pass that lasted all year long. Once they had tried to lift the restrictions on the area, forcing prices to drop, and it’d tanked overnight. Businesses closed up shop. Most of the businesses were owned by powerful Purebloods for powerful and rich Purebloods. Most owners were Dark and Neutral and only three Light Pureblood families who weren’t extremists. They valued their blood enough not to pick fights with the Dark who, for all their faults, knew how to make money. The Golden Peacock was one such establishment. It was the finest jewelry shop in the UK and run by the Abbott family. Hadrian didn’t know them personally, but his dad mentioned Abbott a time or two. “If only the rest of them had the brains the Abbotts did…” Draco opened his mouth to say something but Lucius snorted. “No, Draco you can’t have a broom this year. Show me your grades and you may have one next year.”

“But why, Father?” Draco asked, trying not to sound whiny.

“I don’t want it confiscated by the Headmaster, that’s why, and you need to earn it,” said Lucius. “Now, does everyone have their gold? Theodore, did your father send you with enough?”

“Yes sir,” said Theo, nodding.

“We have to get to the Ministry, Lucius. It’ll be faster by apparation at this point,” said Augustus. “We’re meeting at the Spiny Serpent at four o’ clock. Hopefully we won’t be forced to run late. Hadrian, you have everything?”

“I do, Dad.”

“Blaise?”

“Good to go,” said Blaise.

“If any of us are missing something the rest of us can make it up,” Draco assured.

“Good. Stay within the alley. No venturing out into the Muggle world, do you understand me?” Lucius’ face went stony and stern. “No going into Knockturn alone and unaccompanied except to go to Rodolphus. It’s the first door on the right in the alley and you can’t miss it.”

Everyone but Hadrian bobbed their heads. Augustus made a noise. “Hadrian…”

“What?” Hadrian asked, his eyes widening in that innocent sort of way.

Augustus made to say something and then he shook his head and pulled Hadrian in for a hug and a kiss to the forehead. Hadrian thought he was going to lecture him about potentially sneaking off into the Muggle world, but then didn’t. “Get all your supplies first before you spend the rest of it.” He stroked down Hadrian’s cheeks and along his hair.

Hadrian smiled at him. “You know I will.”

“Good.” He nodded at all four boys before he and Lucius disappeared with two distinctive cracks.

“What did your father not say?” Blaise asked, leaning into Hadrian. His hair was still braided but this time it had been pulled back with a thick shiny golden clasp. The smaller gold and silver clasps had been replaced by tiny purple snap on beads. He had confessed once that his braids had gotten caught up in the floo and it’d been one of the most painful moments of his life. He would never floo without tying his hair back ever again.

“He didn’t restrict me from doing what I wanted.”

Draco rolled his eyes. “Why would you want to go to the Muggle world?”

“Curiosity?”

Theo wrinkled his nose. “Really?”

“Aren’t you curious?” Hadrian asked out loud.

“Not really,” said Draco, but Theo was thoughtful.

“I don’t think we will today. We have a lot of shopping to do. But I like the idea of someday taking a peak. One thing I don’t like to be is ignorant, and I’d like to see it for myself.” Hadrian mused.

Theo nodded with a lot less timidness. “My father would lose it if he found out I ventured into the Muggle world.”

“All of our parents would except for you two,” said Draco.

Hadrian and Blaise shrugged. Both of them had always had freedoms that the others didn’t have. It didn’t mean they took advantage of their freedoms. It was nice knowing that if they wanted to they could. His dad had learned the power of freedom, the more he restricted the more chance that Hadrian would rebel if only out of sheer curiosity. But not spite. Never spite. He loved his dad far too much to be spiteful. Lady Zabini on the other hand had taken Blaise into Muggle Italy often as a child so the appeal had faded away as nothing special for him.

Hadrian knew he was one lucky boy. Merlin knew where he would have ended up if his father hadn’t swooped in that night and claimed him for himself.

Diagon Alley was much more cramped with shops than Hogsmeade, which was spread out across the rolling hills. It was made up of a narrow cobblestone street with one massive tall wall encircling it. All the shops were flushed up against the wall and next to each other, making as much space as they could for the alley street. Unfortunately it was so cramped that you could only walk six abreast if nothing else was in the alley. Sadly that wasn’t the reality and people had to squeeze past other groups holding packages and dodge around outdoor displays and tables. It’s like none of the adults wanted to make use of shrinking charms and insisted on letting everyone know where they had shopped. Most of the front facades were chipped or damaged in some way too. The age of the alley was easily felt as they joined the masses of regular witches and wizards moving too and fro. Signs hung above the shops, some keepers were outside offering samples of their goods. Owls hooting in cages near the Menagerie drew Hadrian’s attention briefly. He found himself staring at a gorgeous snow white owl with big brown eyes. She hooted as if she noticed him in the crowd. Sure was gorgeous, but he already had Phoebe. Sometimes.

“Where should we go first?” Blaise wondered.

“Bookshop?” Theo suggested eagerly.

“You want to wait on that, Theo?” Draco suggested. “If it’s the last place then you can spend more money once we’ve gotten everything we need.”

“Hmmm.” Theo nodded. “Good idea.”

“I’d say robes, but it’s going to take forever at Madam Malkins. She only has two spaces available for sizing at a time.”

“There’s always Twilfit and Tattings,” said Hadrian.

“It’s even smaller,” Blaise laughed.

“Well, how about this, two of us go to Twilfit and the other two go to Madam Malkins? We can meet up by Ollivanders to get our wands after,” Hadrian suggested. “I’ll go to Madam Malkins.”

“Me too, it’s a bit cheaper and I want extra money for books,” said Theo.

Blaise and Draco nodded in agreement. When they reached the halfway point between the two shops they split up. Hadrian and Theo made their way to Madam Malkins. Theo was checking his money pouch and let out a silent curse. “Bloody Hell.”

“What’s wrong?”

“I need to pick up something for mother before I completely forget. She wanted that stupid elixir from the Beauty Shop. As if it’s going to help her any,” Theo rolled his eyes. “She’s always trying every new fangled thing coming and going. Last month her entire face turned red for a week straight when she tried a ‘wrinkle’ cream.”

He forgot that Lady Nott was quite a bit older than Lord Nott. By a good ten years. Rumor had it that it’d been a hasty marriage and the witch Lord Nott was originally arranged to marry had to find a new person to contract with.

“I’ll wait then.”

“No, you go on and get sized. It’ll be faster this way. We can get in and out, then quickly get to the bookshop.” Theo grinned at this, and Hadrian laughed at the one track mind of the boy.

“Okay.” He was fine with that.

Madam Malkins Robes for All Occasions was emblazoned in peeling gold letters across the shop’s front window. Behind the name were three mannequins. One wore a black generic Hogwarts school uniform and robe, the other two were in last season’s fashion. Hadrian spared a thought to wonder why the witch hadn’t updated the mannequins yet considering it was summer, nearly fall, and not spring. He had heard from the others that while the robes for the school uniform started black, once sorted the magic of the school changed them to reflect the house the hat called out. All school robes and uniforms were of the same cut but you could differentiate by ordering higher end fabrics if you knew to ask about it. Witches were expected to wear a white button up and gray skirt, while wizards had a white button up, a gray vest that would change depending on the house chosen, and accompanied with black trousers under the robes during class times. Robes and student ties would change to reflect house colors. Hadrian wondered why they couldn’t use magic to restore the lettering on the window as he opened the door, unless the wrong feeling Hadrian kept getting had something to do with it.

It was a rather untidy shop compared to Gladrags and other places he’d been to. It all looked sort of haphazard. Racks of robes in various shades were on one side, some were gender specific and others were not. An old counter sat in front and displayed behind the counter was a white wedding robe. Hadrian thought it was ugly with its frills and lace. It was way too much. It sat behind glass and he saw a plaque that read ‘Celestina Warbeck had this robe specially crafted in this shop for her wedding’.

She was a terrible singer. He was not into that type of music and much preferred the more smooth Jazz of Lorcan d’Eath. Now that was music and he had a great voice.

As the bell rang above his head signaling his arrival, a tired looking frumpy woman came rushing up from the back. “Hogwarts, dear?”

“Yes Madam.”

“Well what are you waiting for? Come along then! I have one spot left.” She looked out of breath and exhausted. Hadrian wondered how many students she’d served already. It was barely ten o’ clock.

He was led into the back beyond the wall partition and through a small curtained doorway to a room with two stools, a few mirrors, and some racks of fabric. Most of it was basic and looked to be barely tear resistant.

Another boy was there on the stool looking a bit out of place and out of sorts at the same time. He was short and chubby with a round face and light blue eyes. He kept twitching from foot to foot. His dull brown robe hung on a rack peg. He was in basic white linens instead of completely undressed.

“Might want to strip down to your basics, dear. I’ll be right back. I can’t seem to find my pins or the tape measurer.”

“Can’t you summon them?” Hadrian asked.

She laughed at him. “I would dear but the last time I did I almost got sued for stabbing someone.”

Right, needles are pointy. What about conjuring then? He didn’t ask and instead slid out of his cream linen summer cloak and hung it nearby. Unlike most cloaks that had sleeves this did not. Instead it had a strip of fabric that went around his neck hooked by a thin strip of bleached leather. It had gold and silver stitching along the band and it hung down off his shoulders to only a few inches from the ground. It was an airy cape with natural cooling and dirt resistance charms sewn into it. Next, he carefully undid his light cotton summer robes with blue stitching and hung them with his cloak. He stepped out of his shoes too. He was soon stripped to the basics. He had no undershirt beneath his robes like the boy who was watching him shyly. He had only silk form-fitting underpants that were very short, barely going past his ass, unlike the knee length ones the boy was wearing. Blaise had turned him onto the style two years ago during one of his Italy visits. It helped prevent bunching and lines, not to mention it was far more comfortable to simply be free. He stepped up onto the stool.

“Good morning.”

“Hello,” said the boy and then he cleared his throat as if remembering himself. “Longbottom, Neville Longbottom. You?”

Longbottom, he recognized that name. Extremists of the Light, Hadrian thought. His dad tried not to talk about the extremists much because, like always, he wanted Hadrian to make up his own mind. However, the Malfoys couldn’t always control some of the things they said and Draco tended to follow his parents' words, repeating them verbatim even if he didn’t know what they meant.

“Hadrian. It’s nice to meet you,” said Hadrian elegantly.

“You too. I hope I’m in Gryffindor. My whole family was in Gryffindor. I’ll be a right shame to them if I’m not.” he shook his head. “I can’t imagine going anywhere else. But imagine Slytherin? I’d be so ashamed of myself…”

Hadrian couldn’t hold his tongue back. “There’s nothing wrong with Slytherin.”

Neville looked at him wildly. “Oh, but there is… You must be a Muggleborn, I’m a Pureblood you see, so you might not know but Slytherin is the evil house. Only bad witches and wizards end up there.”

“Nothing is evil, there is no good and evil. Not really. It’s a human concept and ideal. Magic is not evil and neither is something as silly as a house you get sorted into when you’re eleven.” Hadrian started to understand why he might be considered a Light extremist.

Neville frowned at him. “That’s not what they say.”

“You should learn to make up your own mind rather than listening to ‘what they say.’ Whomever ‘they’ are. Plenty of different types of magicals come from various houses. Good, bad, and somewhere in between. You’re nothing but a sheep if you constantly follow everyone else’s words and not think for yourself. Plenty of past Ministers of Magic have been from Slytherin and they were vastly popular.”

He didn’t like this boy. Not one single bit. Neville just looked at him with his mouth agape. Hadrian turned and stared straight ahead at the mirror, pretending to not notice his look. Nevermind that he could see the boy’s reflection.

Before Neville could open his mouth to say something else, the witch had come running back. She was even more breathless than before. Hadrian wondered if she smoked a pipe or something. He was starting to wish he had gone with Draco and Blaise even if it might have taken longer.

“Sorry about that, dears. Young man, do you mind if I do Heir Longbottom first? He’s been waiting on me.”

“That’s fine.” The quicker she fixed him right, the quicker he’d bugger off.

She nodded and swooped around on Neville. When asked about fabric preferences for winter and summer it was obvious the boy didn’t know anything as he simply asked for the standard for school robes. Like Hadrian would be caught dead in a polyester and cotton blend all year round. As if he would let a Muggle invention like plastic be used in his clothing. No doubt some idiot Muggleborn brought it into the magical world. Plastic was abhorrent to the environment and people. Not to mention it did not feel nice against the skin. If this was really Heir Longbottom he should be rich enough to know the difference.

Hadrian didn’t know why the tape measure couldn’t size him while she pinned things to Neville. Something weird was going on in this alley. Something about the magic just didn’t feel right to him. He could not figure it out. “What is wrong with this place?” He accidentally spoke aloud.

“What’s that, dear?” Madam Malkins looked up from where she was pinning at Neville’s ankles.

“What’s wrong with the alley?” he couldn’t help but ask. “Why are you breathless, why does it feel so stifling around here, and why have you let your name at the store front start to peel off?” He couldn’t help but rattle off a series of questions. High Street shops never let themselves get this ratty.

Neville looked at him agape at this. “I don’t notice anything.”

“I do. It feels off, like I’m swimming through a swamp or something.”

“Oh… it’s the runes dear, they haven’t been upgraded in a long time,” said Madam Malkins. “I don’t know why. I don’t know what the holdup is in the Ministry. Plenty of us shopkeepers have filed complaints with them about it. It’s taking more magic to keep us from being noticed by the Muggles than it should, and they are designed to take just a little bit of magic from each visitor. You would think with the increase in visitors in recent years it would be gathering more than it used to and would be better. But alas, they just don’t seem to be working right.”

“Who upgrades them? Isn’t that important?” Is that why there are empty fragments within the magic? The Muggles who come through here don’t have anything to be taken from so there were holes? Did it increase in proportion to the number of Muggle visitors?

“You would think dear, but apparently not. I am impressed you could feel it being as young as you are,” she said with a smile. “I’ll bet my needles you’re not Muggleborn.”

Neville frowned at this. “He isn’t?”

“Oh no, a Muggleborn would not be able to notice, sad dears they are. Don’t see what is right in front of them. Please hold still,” she ordered Neville kindly.

“Hogsmeade is nothing like this,” Hadrian said, and he wondered if Neville was a Pureblood why couldn’t he feel this wrongness unless he was used to it? Young or not.

“That’s because Hogsmeade Valley is on top of one of the largest wells of magic in all of Europe. It even rivals Ireland,” said Madam Malkins, and then she hesitated and looked quickly at Neville Longbottom before looking at Hadrian a bit seriously. “I don’t really know what is going on. I’m just a lowly shopkeeper, but there is word spreading from the Ministry that some folks are attempting to talk the world into lowering the statue and coming out publicly once and for all.”

Hadrian’s mouth dropped at this. Did she mean… come out to the Muggles? “You’re kidding?” Is this why his birthday had turned into something else entirely? Is this why all Lords seemed to disappear last night after supper?

“What’s wrong with that?” Interjected Neville Longbottom. “I think it would be good for everyone. Maybe finally teach people that there’s nothing wrong with Muggles. There are many Purebloods, like the Weasleys, that talk about how we can modernize and make use of things the Muggles have invented if only the Ministry wouldn’t hold them back.”

And he called himself a Pureblood. Hadrian doesn’t know much about Muggles, but he knew that exposing themselves was a terrible idea. “We’ve had whole wars over that, and that was before Muggle science has advanced to what it has.” He knew that much from his father’s teachings. About the differences in the Muggle world and how Muggles were not stupid even though they were inferior with no magic. It was foolish to believe them stupid and dim, they could be crafty and there was more of them than magicals. “There are way too many Muggles for us to be safe if we expose ourselves!”

“That’s the fight, my dears,” said Madam Malkins. “But it doesn’t matter anyway. You boys are far too young to be getting into those kinds of things. Alright, Heir Longbottom, you are finished. Put your clothes back on and I’ll have your robes drawn up by the end of the week. You next Mr?”

“Hadrian Rookwood, Heir Rookwood.”

Neville Longbottom’s mouth dropped at this once more, and Hadrian wondered how many flies he was going to catch. “Rookwood? I didn’t think Rookwood had children… he’s not even married.”

Hadrian ignored him as Madam Malkins’ eyes lit up. “Heir Rookwood, well why didn’t you say something? Your father is Augustus, correct? Oh, he’s such a pleasure. It’s no wonder you are full of wisdom and good questions at such a young age. Augustus was one to watch for certain. Smartest lad I’d ever seen come through my shop. No surprise that Ravenclaw snapped him up for herself. Lady Rowena certainly knows her prodigies. Yes, now I look closer, you have his hair and cheekbones. I’ll bet your hair would curl should it become any longer. Rookwoods are all handsome fellows, yes they are,” she said it like it was a fact.

“Yes, Madam,” said Hadrian proudly. “Augustus Rookwood is my father.”

She seemed absolutely thrilled and asked him about his robes and if he would like standard or something more.

“Yes, Madam. I may like being treated as everyone else but I can’t help but have a specific taste for fabrics. I would like all my robes to be made of Arabian silk for the autumn months with some cotton and linen thrown in, wool and linen blend for winter, and a lighter wool and cotton for spring. I would also like my winter cloaks to be made of ermine if you have that on order. Could you double the required minimum? I’d hate to go to class with a dirty robe every day if I can avoid it. Wearing potion stained robes because I have no other options isn’t something I plan on doing.”

Unlike Muggles, his dad had preached, witches and wizards knew how to get fur from animals without killing them. Leather was a different story, but still obtained in a far more humane manner than Muggles from what he’d been taught. So there were no cute little minks being harmed in the making of his robes. A single spell during the hot summer months removed the fur leaving the little creatures bald for a good while. That was important to Hadrian because he loved animals so much. He had been very worried about it as a small child and holding his first caught rabbit in his arms. The idea that someone would kill them for sport or so horribly. He’d almost become a vegetarian until his father let him know that if they didn’t eat meat then there might be little reason to raise some creatures that could not survive in the wild. You could love and respect what you ate. It was a circle, he’d said. A circle of life, and waste was a common Muggle issue that any good witch or wizard did not tolerate.

He knew that the hides of the highland cows they butchered were sold to be made into leather used by bookmakers and the rest to high end and specialty clothing shops making clothes for magizoologists, curse breakers, and healers. Dragon skin was sourced directly from dragon reserves when dragons died or shed, and acromantula silk could only be sourced from certified silk farms. He couldn’t name all of the animals used for clothing, but industry standards were that only humanely obtained animal products, taken without harming the animal in the case of furs or animals dying from natural causes and those raised for eating, were ever used in the magic world.

A hundred or so years back there had been a serious problem with Poachers. Dad had explained that unfortunately his direct ancestor had been a part of a group of those, but most if not all had been eradicated. Just because the ancestors believed something did not mean they should do too. It was about respecting the laws of balance and the natural world. If they lowered themselves to that of the Muggles then what good would they be?

“We do,” said Madam Malkins, realizing how big of an order she was getting. “Once I get your measurements, I can make multiples of the robes easily enough. Not to worry, dear. You’ll be pleased, this year the Board of Governors have added special warm weather cloaks to all students, free of charge. They can be worn in replacement of your school robes on hot spring and autumn days. You’ll be getting one of these that will alter depending on your house sorting. I think you’ll be pleased with how they turn out. Absolutely gorgeous!”

“That’s great, Madam. I would also like an extra cloak on top of the order made with leather and a woolen lining. I know how cold the temperatures can get in Scotland. It doesn’t need to be fancy or anything. But nice. Sleek if you don’t mind. Something I can wear on the weekends and when not in uniform.”

“Indeed they can. We have also been lucky to come into a good supply of fresh acromantula silk. It’s quite pricey though.”

“That sounds even better.” Acromantula silk was very durable and had all the resistances and reinforcements that any other material could provide. It was hard to get even for the most exclusive shops. Not many people dared to remove the silk from one of the rarest most dangerous creatures in the world, though in Hadrian’s opinion it’s not as rare as most make it out to be. Rumor had it that Hogsmeade Valley had at least a couple dozen of them hidden in various locations of the mountains and caves. Silk farms however were few and far between, certificates for the work were hard to come by and very few magicals wanted to try their luck at raising them just to get access to the silk.

“I believe a deep blue or emerald green would work wonders in the stitching. Maybe some red, ravens wear red so impeccably and you have some of the finest black hair I’ve seen. Add a bit of color like your pretty eyes.” She beamed, delighted completely as she began to test the various fabrics he asked for. She made notations to a quill that wrote on some parchment all on its own. Each type of fabric would need to be sized differently than the standard. Some were more flexible than others and had more give when sewn together.

Neville Longbottom had finally got himself dressed. He was looking at Hadrian oddly. Madam Malkins seemed to not pay him much attention. “Leave the gold on the counter dear,” she told him. “My assistant in the front can help you with the calculations.”

“Er - yes, Madam.” He finally finished by slipping into his shoes. He nearly stumbled over them and looked embarrassed by it.

He shuffled out, almost knocking into a rack of clothes making Madam Malkins tut. “Honestly, Heir Longbottom has always been a clumsy sort. Poor dear,” she whispered this part, and Hadrian wondered what she meant by that. “No surprise.”

All in all the experience was educational and Madam Malkins wasn’t too bad. Hadrian was soon redressed and coming out of the back as Theo came into the shop. “Done already?”

“Yes, back is free. Don’t forget to get an extra cloak for the winter.”

“Good. I remember. One visit to you during Yule taught me that.”

Hadrian walked up to the assistant at the counter and passed over the note from Madam listing his order. The assistant was wide-eyed as they calculated and listed the total. He casually placed a few hundred galleons on the scale that counted the amount entered down when galleons were dropped on it. The assistant stared at him wildly as he handed the total over. He then moved to sit by the blotchy window and wait after he tucked the receipt away. Madam Malkin took Theo to the back and Hadrian busied himself with thinking about what the good witch had said.

Why would the Light even think that coming out to Muggles was a good idea? Hadrian had read enough history on the Muggle world to know how stupid of an idea that was. If they were so willing to attack each other over silly ideals and different cultures, imagine what they’d do or try to do to magicals? There had already been witch hunts and burnings back in the 17th century. Learning about World War II had been his biggest lesson though. His dad had taken him to Germany to tour a few old concentration camps that had contained magicals and at the same time he was taught the History of Grindelwald and that whole horrible debacle. He’d even taken Hadrian to Nurmengard where the former Dark Lord was holed up for his treacherous crimes. People could visit the prison and learn about who was locked away inside, but no one could actually visit any prisoners.

He’d taught Hadrian that the Dark had to always keep itself in check because they could become obsessive and addicted to their own magic. It could corrupt easily. It was the reason why there had been so many restrictions put on the use of Dark magic. He’d always told Hadrian there was a right way to do something and a wrong way. Sometimes you had to take the wrong way, but if you fell too deeply in the wrong way it could be cataclysmic.

At the time, Hadrian didn’t understand. He’d only been eight after all. He wasn’t sure if he understood everything now, but he felt he had a better grasp than he had.

Balance.

Getting caught in his own head on a complicated topic could be annoying. He was still too young to figure everything out. Maybe he should start looking deeper? Maybe not now. He had more things to think about. But in the future. He couldn’t let the Dark vanish completely. If this kept up there would be no Dark alignment. They would all become vulnerable and weak. They would all fail and lose everything.

He turned his mind back to those runes that hadn’t been charged in a while. He glanced at the assistant who kept yawning behind her hand as she sat on a stool trying to read. Could the runes be pulling more on the magic from the shopkeepers and those who lived in the alley to make up for the empty holes and fragments? It would explain why Madam and her assistant were so tired.

He wondered where these runes were. He didn’t know much about runes, but he’d sat in on some of his dad’s lessons to Marcus and a few of the older boys. Runes could be carved into just about anything so long as it was natural and had substance. Usually it was carved into stone and even metal. Some runes were as small as Hadrian’s thumb while others could be larger than his head. It all depended on the needs and they all reacted in different ways to each other. Runes were kind of a way around the banned rituals and long spells that were otherwise illegal or restricted in some form.

Some runes were set in the four cardinal points. Sometimes they were set on the bias at North East, South East, North West, and South West. Doing them on a bias would set them against the grain and threads giving the magic more stretch. Would the runes be etched into the stone along the wall that surrounded Diagon Alley? He was sure there were runes around Gringotts, but the goblins could take care of that themselves. They were independent of the Ministry.

He blinked when light eyes stared right into his own and he smiled when he saw Theo. “You think harder than anyone I’ve ever met, Hadrian.”

“Done?”

Theo nodded. “I am. I paid too. Shall we go meet the others?”

Hadrian climbed to his feet and they stepped out into the alley. His eyes coasted across the cobblestone alley, watching all the witches and wizards. He noticed a few cracks that seemed invisible to some people.

“What is on your mind?”

“I want to check out the runes that power the alley.”

“Runes?” Theo cocked his head. “You mean the runes that keep us hidden?”

“Yeah, Madam Malkin let it slip that the Ministry of Magic has been lagging behind in the repowering of the runes. Apparently, the magic is siphoning more than it should be. You noticed how tired the witch was? It’s not that late yet.”

“I noticed the assistant looked quite exhausted and all she does is take money. What can you do about it?”

“Probably nothing, but I’d like to look at them. You think they are on the straight or the bias?”

“Don’t know. Likely etched in the stone around the alley itself. Let’s get Draco and Blaise and then we can take a look.” Blaise and Draco were already at their meeting spot in front of Ollivander’s tiny shop. A pale gold wand sat in the window’s front on top of a ratty purple pillow. “Hadrian wants to see the runes in the alley,” Theo told them before they could say anything.

Blaise was leaning against the shop’s wall with his arms crossed and watching the street. Draco was sucking on a stick of honeycomb. “Why?” Draco asked when he broke a piece off to share with Hadrian.

He beamed and sucked at the end of the shard. If he bit on it, it’d crumble in his mouth and disappear faster. Nothing better than the taste of real raw honey.

Hadrian told them all in more detail about what information he had uncovered from Madam Malkins. Draco’s eyes went wide and Blaise leaned up when he theorized that the reason their fathers had to run to the Ministry today was to help stop a bill that could potentially ruin the entirety of the magical world.

“Are you kidding?” Blaise gasped.

“There’s no way…” said Draco. “I guess that’s why Father’s been so stressed lately.”

“And why my birthday turned into such a hullabaloo,” said Hadrian.

“It also makes sense that some of the Light families were invited,” Theo also pointed out. “This will affect them too in a way that would terrify them enough to actually listen to us.”

“I just want to take a look. Maybe I can write them down and have Dad or Marcus decipher them for me. Probably Marcus, Dad wouldn’t want me to be so distracted right now from school. He might think I shouldn’t bother. He’s been so busy these last few weeks I don’t want to interrupt his work.”

“Well, where do you suppose the runes would be? I know there’s one master rune that helps channel them all from your dad’s lessons, but that’s the extent of my own knowledge,” said Blaise, pushing off the walls.

“Most likely on the northern most point, which would be toward that ratted Leaky Cauldron,” said Draco.

“We can swing back by to get our wands. I just want to see it before I forget about it. I don’t know why I can feel this stifling pressure but you guys can’t.”

“I can feel something is wrong, but I don’t know what it is,” Blaise admitted.

Draco and Theo confirmed they did not feel anything. “But that might be because our magic isn’t fully grown yet.”

“Neither is ours,” Blaise pointed out.

“Might be more than ours. You’re slightly older than us and Hadrian is Hadrian,” said Theo as they made their way along the cobbled street in the direction of the Leaky Cauldron. Hadrian wondered if it might also be because Blaise had creature blood in him. He didn’t actually know for certain that Blaise did, but his theory was the reason he reacted more to Blaise and Zenyatta was because they were more closely connected to Dark magic and strong creature blood would explain it. It wasn’t something that he could just ask them though. Families with creature blood tended to be very secretive about what creatures had bred with their magical ancestors.

Hadrian had only enough time to look over his shoulder at the window of Ollivanders before they left the store front. He noticed wild white hair and a pair of bulbous blue eyes peeking out before it vanished.

Odd.

The Leaky Cauldron was hidden by an unimpressive brick wall. Hadrian could feel magic flowing from it and ignored those around him as he stepped forward to touch it. A hum vibrated against his palm. He could also feel the air pushing through the cracks. He jerked back when the bricks began to peel back.

“How did you do that?” Draco asked, pulling out his honey stick. “I thought you had to tap the bricks in a certain order.”

“I don’t know,” said Hadrian as they stepped into the back area of the inn. Immediately they were greeted by the strong smell of ale and pollution. Instinctively, Hadrian turned and touched the edge of the folded bricks causing it to unfold and seal them up. He could tell they were closer to Muggle London now.

“Father doesn’t like the Leaky Cauldron. He thinks only the lowliest of the scum come here,” said Draco.

“I’m not here for the food or company.” They were in a wide open yard that was as dirty and drab as the building attached to it. Boxes and barrels sat haphazardly by the wooden door going into the inn. A small enclave along the wall had Hadrian distracted and moving on instinct away from the brick along the Leaky Cauldron’s back. Draco hissed when a gray fat rat rushed by their feet with what looked like a piece of rotten apple in its mouth.

“Ulgh! Gross!”

Hadrian ignored the blond pre-teen and stopped when he felt a hum. He had Blaise roll a barrel away from the brick wall that was part of the protective wall that surrounded Diagon Alley. He was a few dozen feet from the entrance and exit. “I think this is it. I recognize the rune from the one in the Anziano Plaza.” Anziano Plaza was the main magical hub in Italy. It made Diagon Alley look even more broken in comparison.

It was a rune that looked like a wonky lower case n or a slanted arch etched in orange, Hadrian wasn’t sure of its technical name. Hadrian drew closer to it. It was etched real crudely in the rock and about the size of his fist. Hadrian was only familiar with the Fehu runes which helped empower their cow pastures, keeping them safe and protected at all times while also bolstering their nutrients and magical properties.

“That’s Uruz. It gathers magic and lifeforce from everyone passing through and then it transmits it to the other runes,” Theo told him.

“Lifeforce, that’s why everyone looks so damn tired. Did anyone in Twilfit look exhausted?”

“I didn’t notice,” said Draco.

“Yes, they did. Mr. Twilfit was shaking at one point and almost tipped his bottle of ink all over the white cashmere Draco had him pull out,” said Blaise.

“Oh, I remember that. I thought he was just being unprofessional.”

“I think the inhabitants are being most affected, but what is this? It doesn’t feel right…” He reached a hand to hover above it. It was hot, too hot. It felt wrong as his own magic reacted to it. It recoiled and pushed deeper inside of him. “Guys, this is Light magic… I thought runes were Neutral.”

“They’re supposed to be unless they’ve been altered,” said Theo knowledgeably. “Runes are not Neutral, not really. They’re Ancient Magic. A magic that has been extinct for over a hundred years.”

“It’s why the class is called Ancient Runes, right?” asked Blaise and Theo nodded.

“You think someone from the Light side tampered with them?”

“If that proposed bill that Hadrian was talking about is being fought over in the Wizengamot, then yeah I could see them tampering with it to get their way. If the runes crash down we’ll all be exposed and it can’t be taken back so easily.”

“So someone is just waiting and letting them degrade on purpose.”

“Sounds like it,” said Theo. “We should tell your father, Hadrian. He’ll know what to do about it.”

“And risk trouble?” Hadrian shook his head. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Something inside of him told him to touch the rune. He hadn’t yet. His magic didn’t like it, but something inside of him urged him on. His father always taught him to trust in his instincts. It was almost like something else was inside of him - another kind of magic.

“Two of you be look out for me.”

“What are you going to do?” Theo asked.

“I don’t know.” He scooted between the boxes and barrels.

Blaise moved another box, grunting at the weight. “Smells like oranges, some are going rotten just sitting out here. Why aren’t they under preservation?”

“For that matter why aren’t they in the cellar away from rats and other varmints?” Draco asked in disgust as he moved to stand by the brick wall. “I’ll watch.”

“Blaise, take the door to the Leaky Cauldron, please.”

Blaise agreed and Hadrian squatted down until he was eye level with the rune. “You really think you can do something?” Theo asked.

“No, not really but something is telling me to touch it. Part of me is recoiling from it, that’s my natural affinity, but something else is drawing me in. I can’t explain it.”

“No one can explain you, Hadrian,” Theo chuckled. “I don’t want to touch it. Feels wrong too.”

Hadrian’s hovering palm inched forward until it was flushed with the wall. It was smooth and cold for the briefest moment and then a roar of heat shot through his hand causing him to hiss when the magic inside of him seemed to do a U-turn.

“Ahh!” Hadrian hissed as the pain shot through him. As if someone had shoved his hand onto red hot and white coals. His eyes rolled, the rune he touched began to glow. A violent shudder rushed through his body. A searing pain unlike anything he’d ever felt, and he’d been stung by spider shooters several times.

“Hadrian!” Theo gasped out, reaching for his arm.

“Ahh… You- see that?” Hadrian asked, on the edge of tears as the pain vibrated up his arm. Oh, it hurt… it hurt so bad. His blood pressure rose into his ears and his heart thrummed and jumped as the pain spiked. What was this? He could feel weaves and layers of magic that should not be on a rune. It was distorted and twisted by layers of enchantments. He could taste a compulsion in the magic. He could taste cotton and rotten fruit indicating Light magic on his tongue and resisted the urge to throw up. His stomach rolled at the taste and he stupidly swallowed. It was like it was trying to suck the life out of him. He cried out and tried to pull away only for his palm to be stuck.

“I just see you burning the hell out of yourself! Get off it,” said Theo panicking. He reached for Hadrian’s small wrist and tried to pull. “Fuck… I can’t get it off… Hadrian!”

Hadrian could barely concentrate on Theo trying to pull him away. His head was filled with all kinds of weird things that he didn’t understand. A flash of twinkling blue eyes set behind half-mooned spectacles. Another bitter taste of bright Light magic churned his stomach again. He could see flashes of things he did not understand, hear enchantments that he did not know the meanings of.

“What’s going on over there?” Blaise called out from the door.

Something pulled on his energy as Theo tried to get his palm off the rune, but it wouldn’t budge. “It’s glowing….” Hadrian heaved as he turned away from Theo when the tears of pain sprung into his eyes. Suddenly, as hot as it had become it turned ice cold and Hadrian fell forward as his palm finally dropped from the rune. A flash of blue light bathed everyone and everything for a half a second as if it was washing down the alley.

A shush sound could be heard from the wall, and Theo let out a gasp. “I see it now. It’s lit again! But it’s not orange anymore. It’s blue now.”

Hadrian rocked weakly against Theo’s small body. He was shaking and vibrating all over. He could feel something digging into his bones. A kind of fatigue that he’d never experienced before. He brought his hand around to see his palm was blackened. Theo hissed and quickly pulled out a glass bottle of water.

Hadrian’s palm sizzled and burned with blisters and pustules on it that were quickly turning a puss filled white. Theo splashed the cold water onto it. Hadrian let out a soft cry. His good hand came up to dig his fingers into Theo’s shoulder. He had to clamp down on his lip to keep from screaming. Tears were rolling down his cheeks. He didn’t think anything could feel so painful.

“That’s not going to help young lads, but I have something that might.”

Everyone let out a series of yelps. Draco cursed out and Blaise made a noise when they whirled around to the voice that was closer than it should have been. Familiar bulbous glassy blue eyes stared down at Hadrian, they had a friendly but mysterious quality to them. It reminded him of Lord Xenophilius Lovegood and his daughter. His hair was stark white and stuck up over his head. He looked like the oldest wizard Hadrian had ever seen.

“How did you get past us?” Blaise couldn’t help but ask.

“Who are you?” Draco asked more importantly.

“You’re Lord Ollivander, aren’t you? I saw you looking out the window.” Hadrian shuddered at the thrum of needles piercing through the black of his skin as Theo looked over his palm carefully. The boy kept one eye on the creepy man who just appeared from nowhere.

“Astute of you, Master Rookwood. I am, allow me to introduce myself, I am Garrick Ollivander.” He bowed low. His black coattails seemed to sway in the nonexistent wind as he did. “Now, may I help you with your hand after you so graciously restored the runes and stripped it of its unsavory compelling compulsions that have been leaking for half a century? Light nor Dark has no business on the magical powers of Ancient Runes.” He smiled and when he did the wrinkles seemed to fold back showing a mischievous young boy that Mr. Ollivander used to once be. He was impossibly tall with more leg than anything else. He started whistling as the brick wall folded back. “Come this way, all of you.”

Blaise quickly helped Hadrian to his feet. Hadrian leaned heavily on the black boy as he was guided through the arch into the alley that transformed right before his very eyes.

Draco let out a curse. “Bloody Hell.”

Bloody Hell indeed.

Chapter Text

Chapter Six

“The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”

― Socrates

A soft bluish haze seemed to spread like rushing water down the alley. Every magical in the alley seemed to shiver as the haze swept by them, causing them to look around in bewilderment.

“Do you see that?” Hadrian asked against Blaise.

“No, but I feel it,” said Blaise. “It’s like a kiss of magic, not Dark, not Light, or even Neutral. I can’t explain it well…”

“What’s it look like?” Theo asked.

“Like the start of a lake in Diagon Alley.”

All the shop faces and rotted cobblestone pebbles seemed to be knitting themselves back together. All of the faded signs and broken timbers with splinters sewed back together and brightened. Owls began to hoot outside the menagerie in a melody that only they seemed to understand. He could hear a cheerful series of noises from one of the other pet shops’ cages of kneazles and regular kittens. It sounded happy and cheerful. Hadrian’s eyes locked with that gorgeous white snow owl again and she watched him as he watched her. Beautiful, Hadrian thought.

One by one, wizards and witches seem to pick up on the changes. The first to take note were a group of Pureblood witches standing by the stationary store. Followed by other Purebloods that Draco pointed out. After that, Halfbloods started picking up on it. It didn’t seem like any of them could see the haze like Hadrian could, but they could see the changes in the alley. It wasn’t an instantaneous or complete fix of all the damage done, but it was obviously getting better. Hadrian expected that some things would take a while to fix.

Reaching Ollivander’s shop, the wizened old man was holding the door open for them. Hadrian noticed that the curtains in the window that had been tied back were no longer infested with mothballs or eaten around the edges. Ollivander’s was written above the door and the date of establishment glimmered like it was brand new and not centuries older than anything else in the alley could be.

“It really is a pity there is not a record of what you have done, Master Rookwood. I feel like I am hardly a witness.”

“I don’t think that’s necessary,” said Hadrian.

“Oh, but I think it is. I do not believe you realize what you have done here.”

“I don’t.”

“Come, I have a burn salve and some sap that will clear that right up. Let’s get you sorted and then we can fit each of you for your wand.” He whistled as Blaise led Hadrian in through the darkened doorway. Even the shop interior seemed affected. “I look forward to no more coughing customers. There was more dust than any magic could clear away before it started to settle again. My wallpaper was peeling at an impressive rate.” He shook his head. “No one understands the value of balance these days.”

Where had Hadrian heard that before?

“I thought you were a Light wizard,” Draco blurted out.

“Neutral, Master Malfoy. Entirely Neutral, how else am I able to fit each and every customer who comes through my shop with the perfect wand? You may see Neutral as a sad part of life with nothing to offer, but that is entirely untrue.”

“Both sides have to be kept in check,” said Hadrian, repeating his father.

“Correct, Master Rookwood. Every last wizard and witch who comes through my door has a part to play in history. No matter how small or insignificant it may seem. In a way they are a record of what was and what is and what will always be or never be in some cases. I will return in a moment. Please have a seat.” He waved his hand and four cushy armchairs appeared. Blaise didn’t hesitate pulling Hadrian down on his lap into one of them as Theo and Draco took opposite sides. The fourth chair disappeared once they were all sitting.

“Let’s see the damage,” said Blaise, carefully unwrapping the cloth that Theo had wrapped around Hadrian’s hand. He hissed when he saw the damage. “Merlin…” Hadrian looked away from the blackened hand because the memories were starting to roll his stomach.

“I couldn’t pull him away,” Theo whispered.

In an effort to distract himself from the pain, Hadrian focused on all the boxes that rested on the shelves. Hundreds and hundreds of thin boxes. It was amazing to think that even with magic that there could be so many different varieties of wands. He knew nothing of wand making and neither did his father. All he knew was that it took a special kind of magic to be able to produce such unique instruments.

Suddenly the door burst open causing all of them to jump and Blaise to clench Hadrian around the waist. “Hadrian!” It was Rodolphus. He looked out of breath and fell to his knees in front of Hadrian.

“I’m fine,” Hadrian insisted, his uninjured hand coming up to wipe his eyes, but Rodolphus was looking at his blackened hand. He’d lost his hood causing his ponytail and handsome face to shine in the light.

“You’re bloody well not fine! What happened?”

“I am not sure, Dolphy,” Hadrian admitted with a sniff, and Blaise explained while holding him close about the runes and Hadrian’s insatiable curiosity.

Rodolphus’ eyes sparkled at the end. “You did this on your own?”

Hadrian nodded slowly. “Felt like something I should do. I couldn’t help it. I’m sorry?”

Rodolphus shook his head. “Your father is going to be proud of you but also upset. He hates it when you get hurt.”

“Mr. Ollivander is going to help heal it.”

“Your hood fell back.”

“I don’t care. I felt you all over me…” He trailed off as if he wanted to say something else, like he was remembering something, but he didn’t finish.

Hadrian with his good hand reached over and lifted his hood. “I’m fine, Dolphy.” He leaned in and kissed the man on the nose. “Almost worth it. I say almost because that hurt.”

“I know I can see the tear streaks on your cheeks,” said Rodolphus.

“Do not worry yourself, Heir Lestrange, I have a simple solution here filled with burn salve and the sap of a well cultivated pine and lemon tree.” It smelled of lemon and something sweet that tickled beneath his nose. Ollivander seemed unaffected by Rodolphus’ presence. “I hope your eleven and a quarter inch lurch has served you well, Heir Lestrange. I always said that the unicorn hair in your wand had to be from one of the most stately male unicorns I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I do believe the lurch wood would be lost without that as its core.”

Cautiously, Rodolphus climbed to his feet and inclined his head. “Your memory is as impeccable as always.”

“Your brother was the only Lestrange in history to hold a holly wand in their hands. An interesting combination showing that Light and Dark can exist together and create a perfect balance.”

“He was always the better one of us,” Rodolphus agreed.

Ollivander sat the ceramic bowl onto the counter. “Come, Master Rookwood.”

Hadrian slipped off Blaise and went over to the counter. The lemon and sweet scent of pine was pleasant, but the salve bubbled and looked a bit like it was going to burn him further. He was encouraged to lay his hand in it and took a breath before he did so. He was tense, waiting for the heat to explode but when he dipped his palm into it, it was cold and cool which made him relax instantly. Ollivander helped to wipe the black blisters and charring off with a small sponge. It peeled off with every gentle swipe and all the pain and burning that had been simmering beneath his hand dissolved.

He rested his hand in the liquid for a solid five minutes, and his skin came out clear and blemish free. Hadrian watched as the bubbles and frothiness of the mixture seemed to eat the black dead skin.

“Much better.”

“Yes, thank you, Lord Ollivander.”

“No, thank you, my child.” His large eyes sparkled. “Master Nott, shall we start with you? Master Rookwood, go and rest on Master Zabini again.”

Hadrian beamed at him and he practically skipped back to Blaise who enfolded his dark hands into Hadrian’s healed one and drew him onto his lap. Hadrian shifted about until his back was to Blaise’s front with the boy’s arms wrapped around him. Their hands stayed locked together, fingers entwined.

“Much better,” Blaise whispered as a tape measure began to fly up to size Theo from his head to his toes much more thoroughly than Madam Malkins’ had. It even tried to size his nose hairs, making Draco snicker discreetly.

“Enough of you. Hm, let’s see…” He observed Theo, and his eyes seemed to get bigger. Then the color darkened as if he was looking through Theo who stood straight and still. “Ah!” Ollivander cried out suddenly, causing the boys to jolt in surprise, and he vanished along with his coattails deeper into the shop.

Theo turned and arched a brow. Rodolphus was grinning slyly. “Never changes.”

“What did he see?” Theo asked.

“I don’t know. Maybe he can see auras like ol’ Xeno.”

Ollivander returned with a couple of boxes. “Let’s see, dragon heart-string and English oak.” When Theo tried it the wand fell from his hand and went back into its box on its own. Hadrian laughed when the box slammed shut as if annoyed. “No, I guess. How about this one… unicorn hair, pine, and nine and a half inches. It’s kind of rigid but if you have the mind it will bend for you.” They all watched as Theo lifted the wand. “I knew it was one or the other. Oaks and pines can sometimes trick a fellow especially if they’ve been blended together for centuries. I think that about does it. Your unicorn hair comes from a fine lady who had quite a large amount of wisdom. I suspect you are much the same.”

“Theo’s a lady?” Draco teased quietly, causing Theo to scowl at him.

“You saw last night he wasn’t,” Blaise offered immediately, causing Draco to flush bright red and scowl as Theo snorted and handed over the seven galleons.

“Serves you right, you prat!” He flicked Draco in the ear before coming to sit. “Oh, thank you, Mr. Ollivander.” He didn’t want to forget his manners.

“You are quite welcome, Master Nott. You next Master Malfoy. On your feet!” He clapped, making Draco quickly stand at attention.

It took only three wands before Draco found his. All of them had a good chuckle when one of the wands, willow, like one his mother had, flew out of his hand, did a twirl and seemed to blow a raspberry at him before going back to his box. Finally he was handed a wand made from hawthorn and unicorn hair. It was only a fraction longer than Theo’s wand at ten inches.

Hadrian slid off Blaise as he was called up next.

“Not quite native to here,” Ollivander rubbed his chin and looked Blaise over. “Hm, tricky tricky…” Hadrian’s eyes followed the tape measure, noting that the tape was even getting his waist measurements. Hadrian wondered if it was more curious than important that it do so. Ollivander made what they were coming to realize were his usual sounds and wandered off somewhere again.

He could be heard rustling around in the back, tossing a box here, apologizing to something there as if it had complained to him. He brought back at least six boxes.

“Am I that hard to figure out?”

“You never know. Always be prepared,” said Mr. Ollivander. “There hasn’t been a wizard or witch that has dumbfounded me yet.” He considered a moment and then said. “I’m a bit disappointed I didn’t get to fit your mother for a wand.”

“Hers was handmade.”

“As I suspected,” said Mr. Ollivander, winking at him. “Let’s see…” First one was made of hornbeam and even from here Hadrian could see all the indents and knots in it.

Marcus had a hornbeam wand with a dragon heartstring core from a hebridean black dragon that was said to have annihilated eight Muggle towns when it escaped the reserve, running from Poachers. Hadrian couldn’t blame it and thought that the annihilation was warranted, and it fit Marcus real well.

The wand worked, but Mr. Ollivander frowned at it and shook his head. “No.” He swiped it before Blaise could sit it back down. He tried another. Hadrian forgot what it was, alder maybe. It didn’t seem to want to come out of its box and when Blaise took it, it was jerked out of his hand by its own power.

Wands had personalities then? Hadrian realized, having noted the way some of them reacted.

Six boxes later and nothing seemed to fit. Ollivander’s eyes narrowed. “Why don’t you have a handmade one like your mother, Master Zabini?”

“I didn’t want one,” Blaise said simply. “I wanted to be here with my friends. To get my wand from where they got theirs.”

Ollivander’s eyes sparked and he vanished again, but this time he did so by apparation.

“Silent apparation. I am impressed,” said Rodolphus. “Most can’t do that.”

“I imagine most do not reach his age,” Hadrian whispered.

“There is that.”

He reappeared with a single box in his hand but there were more behind him floating in the air. Rodolphus arched a brow, clearly more impressed by this.

“Brought more. I believe I will need it. I had to make a trip to my shop in Hogsmeade.” All the floating boxes sat themselves neatly on the counter and he handed Blaise the one in his hand. “I believe this will do.”

As soon as he lifted the solid black wand, Hadrian felt a rush of deep rich magic that he hadn’t felt from Draco or Theo’s. Blaise’s smile and small sigh was all that showed that he was very affected by it. “I see the difference clearly, Lord Ollivander. I thank you.”

“No, thank you. I like the trickier ones.”

“What is it?” Theo asked.

“11 and ½ ebony wood that is as dark as it is flexible. It is made with a rare horned serpent’s horn. I trust you find the properties in this wand extraordinarily compatible to you and those closest to you. It will never fail you. It will always be loyal and true to you, should you treat it right.” Blaise paid him the gold and thanked him once more. “Master Rookwood, if you would be so kind.” Ollivander’s tape measure flew up without being prompted. “Quite eager I imagine.”

“That tickles,” Hadrian muttered to the tape measure as it flew around him.

As soon as he came to a stop in front of Ollivander, boxes all around them began to float from their places and land on top of the already stacked boxes that the old man brought from Hogsmeade. Ollivander arched a brow. “Really?” he muttered to them. One long green box jumped over top of a black box causing the black box to try and nudge him off. “Alright, alright,” he swatted at the feisty green box and lifted the black one. “Wait your turn. I doubt you’ll be compatible anyway!” The box turned around as if turning its back on Ollivander.

How weird! Hadrian thought as Ollivander chortled.

The old wizard brought the black box around. “Let’s try this first. A good hearty yew, they are everlasting after all.” Hadrian reached in and lifted the wand, aware of the hush of magic that tingled down his arms. Ollivander’s eyes narrowed when Hadrian swished it. “Hm… let me try something before we make a decision… this is a curious situation we are in.” He reached for the yew wand only for the wand to try and lean away from him. “Enough of you.” He snatched it and placed it back in. “Maybe...” He picked up the impatient green box and cracked it before looking at Hadrian. His eyes flickered to the faded scar on his forehead and looked at the wand again. “Hm. Let’s see what this is going to do.” He turned it around. It looked like cherry wood and was very attractive.

“Cherry?”

“No.” He went blank faced. “Pick it up. I need to test something.”

Hadrian was unsure if he wanted to be tested. He liked Ollivander, but he didn’t know enough about wands to understand what the man was thinking. He decided he would have to get a book about this. He lifted the wand and the warmth spread deeper through him as he flicked the wand, causing red and gold fireworks to explode from the tip impressively. It made a heart shape and then morphed into that of a phoenix.

Hadrian could feel it preening proudly in his hand. Ollivander was still staring at it. Then he snatched it and placed it aside before grabbing another. The box jumped up and down as if in anger.

“Can you explain what is wrong, Lord Ollivander?”

“Seems you have a good compatibility with a variety of wands, which means that this will make it harder to find your one true wand, Master Rookwood. That was a special holly wand I created decades ago. It seemed to match you just as breathlessly as the yew, nevermind they are polar opposites. I sometimes make brother wands.”

“So they’re brothers?”

“Not these, no,” said Mr. Ollivander. “The brother to the holly wand is or was in someone else’s hands,” he said no more about it. Hadrian didn’t push it either. He wasn’t sure if he would want a ‘brother wand’. The name made it sound like there would be expectations of the wand owners. Each wand that Hadrian tried seemed to fit him well. It was all good magic, and that seemed to frustrate Mr. Ollivander more. “I’m used to wand selectivity, not popularity.”

“Hadrian inspires that in a lot of people, Ollivander,” Rodolphus let him know.

“Indeed.”

By now, Hadrian was getting tired because he’d gone through over a dozen. All felt nice and good enough to him. Hadrian didn’t know what Ollivander was looking for. Nearly all the wands were eager in his hands and he could feel their pulses of magic like a soul or a heartbeat. “Something isn’t quite right there.” He rubbed his chin and then he bent down to stare Hadrian in the eyes. Hadrian looked back at him, not blinking. “Ah… maybe that wand. I’ve only ever made two, like the holly I sometimes like to make sibling wands.”

“Sibling wands? How is that different from ‘brother wands’?” Hadrian asked, interrupting Ollivander.

“Ah, brother wands, Master Rookwood, are two wands that have a core from one magical creature. Siblings are wands with cores from genetically connected magical creatures. The one I am thinking of has a foreign ingredient. I tend to stick to unicorn, phoenixes, and dragon heartstrings because of their versatility. But I do enjoy branching out. Let’s see then… I was trying to make my own version of that wand…” He whispered more to himself than Hadrian. He shook his head and then he walked the length of the shop to the velvet pillow in the window that had a pale gold wand sitting on it. Ollivander did not touch it, but Hadrian felt drawn to it. He lifted the pillow with the wand on its stand, brought it over to him, and leaned down to present it. It was eye catching for sure.

“I can’t touch it. After I created it, it all but electrified me. My hair is still sticking up if you haven’t noticed. It’s been asleep since that instance. It hasn’t moved or showed much personality and I thought at first it was a failed experiment. It’s why I had it in the window. It’s one of my most beautiful wands to date. It might not wake up unless you touch it. I was hesitant at first, but I don’t think you will have the same reaction as I did.”

“Wands have personalities?”

“Oh yes,” he said with a swift nod. “Only those with unclogged ears can hear them, Master Rookwood. All of them. Just like witches and wizards have their own distinctive personalities and natures. They can be a capricious lot.”

Hadrian decided not to stall anymore. He wanted to finish his shopping and he was starting to get hungry. So he lifted the wand a lot less gracefully than he had all the dozens of others he tried, but he froze, hand in mid-air when the golden blonde instrument came alive in his hands. A magnetizing charge surged and Hadrian’s hand naturally swished it causing an elegant explosion of a golden winged bird to burst forth. At first Hadrian thought it was a phoenix, but once more of the sparkles faded he realized it was actually a thunderbird. It flew over their heads and then dived right between his friends and Rodolphus before dispersing completely. He could feel the hum through his skin from the wand's magical core. It was the nicest he’d felt so far and now he felt he understood why Ollivander had gotten so picky. There was nothing else like it.

“Excellent!” Ollivander was almost bouncing with glee. “Perfection! It’s awake and it’s all yours, Master Rookwood. I present to you the most beautiful wand I have ever created.”

“What is he?” Hadrian asked, feeling like the wand was male as he rolled the hilt around in his fingers.

“Thirteen and a quarter inches from the oldest elder in the world found in the fabled Garden of Eden, and the feather core is that of a rather regal thunderbird.”

“Cass has that same wand core, but his is laurel wood,” Hadrian said. “He mentioned that he was excited to get a core from a creature naturally found in America.”

“Ah, yes, young Master Warrington. Well, you’ll be pleased to know that his thunderbird feather is from the mother of yours.” That warmed Hadrian’s heart as he handed nine gold galleons over. It was the most expensive wand price for their group but Hadrian didn’t mind. “Now I have to figure out what to put in the window next. Not sure if anything else compares.”

“What did you mean when you said you were trying to recreate ‘that’ wand?” Hadrian asked curiously.

“There’s a legend about a fabled wand known as the Elder Wand. It is made from the hair of a thestral. Many tales surround this mysterious wand. It’s never been seen, though Master Gregorovich likes to claim he had possession of the wand, but as he is still breathing I highly doubt that. You see, it’s reputation has made it to become known centuries ago as the Death Stick. For each and every time it exchanged hands, cold blooded murder of the former owner was involved.”

“But this isn’t a thestral hair?” Hadrian pointed out.

“No, I didn’t want to make one with that hair. I wanted to do the complete opposite but with the same wood and features. Most wands made out of elder turn very dark. Sometimes black, sometimes a deep crimson. Most associate it with darkness, but that is not true. It’s associated more with Ancient Magic. Many forget that Ancient is not Dark nor Light nor is it Neutral. It’s a foundation. So, when combined, this is what was produced. Elder on its own is a blond wood, quite handsome, but combine it with the golden thunderbird and you have something that is as enchanting to look at as it is to use - if you can wake it up. It won’t work for everyone or anyone I suppose. I suspect, Master Rookwood, that you have a lot more in you than it appears on the surface.” He then clapped, making the three boys behind Hadrian jump. “Now, how about something quicker and more fun, hm? I have holsters and handles. As you know the wands already come with a basic handle, but you may change it for something more fitting of your hand hold or the wand’s style. Remember, the wand chooses the wizard. If it doesn’t approve of something it will let you know.”

Talk about a history lesson, Hadrian thought. His father would be disappointed that he didn’t get to listen in on it. Hopefully Rodolphus would share the memory with him.

Each one of them chose a holster and a new handle. Hadrian chose a black marble that contrasted against the golden of the wand and it had what looked like emerald stones set all around it.

Blaise chose a similar black marble but it had amethyst to match his eyes. Draco and Theo chose white and black marble respectively. All their holsters were well cured leather. Nothing too fancy but not cheap either.

Draco let out a huff when they bid Ollivander good-bye and headed out into the light. “Merlin, I thought we’d be sleeping in there. I’m starving and we haven’t done anything yet.”

“It’s almost two and we’re supposed to meet Lord Malfoy and Lord Rookwood at four,” said Blaise, checking his pocket-watch. “You think we have time to visit the ice cream parlor?”

“I want to go to the bookshop,” Theo said disappointedly. He then pulled out the list of required school supplies. “Not to mention we still have to get our potion supplies and stationary. We all already have trunks we’re going to use, so at least we don’t need one of those.”

“Hmm… I don’t know if we’ll have time for ice cream and get our supplies.” Draco fought a frown that wanted to form on his face. Now that Blaise mentioned ice cream he was tempted to go for that. They all missed lunch after all.

“Let’s go get ice cream and then to the bookshop with the rest of our time,” Hadrian suggested. “If we have to get potion supplies and stationary another time then we can. We have all month before leaving for school after all.”

Theo cheered up and Rodolphus chuckled. “Looks like you don’t need me. Do you all have enough money for the treat and books?” When everyone nodded he squeezed Hadrian’s shoulders with all the affection he could muster in public. “I’m going to go hide until dinner in High Street. I notice a couple of undercover Aurors eyeing me,” he whispered into Hadrian’s hair. He kissed it before he let go and vanished with a pop.

Hadrian didn’t think it was fair at all that even though Rodolphus was proven innocent people still treated him horribly or even outright refused him service. Everyone made mistakes, and his father always told him that you gained more valuable knowledge and experience by mistakes than you did by successes. Rodolphus had already paid the price with his brother’s death.

Everyone else had their wands in their holsters, but Hadrian couldn’t seem to bring himself to do the same with his own yet. He liked the way it felt in his hand. Even with the marble barrier he could feel the power trickling into his palm. Hadrian’s fingers danced along the smooth surface of the wood as they waited for a family to shuffle past before they left the front of Ollivander’s shop and headed north down the street towards Gringotts Bank. They passed a second-hand bookshop and quickly entered Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor next door.

“Welcome, lads! Give a shout once you know what you’d like.” A voice called out from the back of the shop. The shop was currently empty of other customers. Hadrian looked over the order board while Draco pulled Blaise to look at the various flavors on offer.

“Think we should splurge for sundaes or just get single scoops?” Theo asked while he looked at the board with Hadrian.

“Hmm. If we split the giant sundae between us it would be like we each had single scoops and we would get to try multiple flavours.” Hadrian suggested. He reluctantly placed his wand in its holster. He’d chosen to wear the holster on his right forearm right above his wrist. He could flick his wrist and it would slide into his hand immediately. Draco had chosen his left upper arm which didn’t seem all that comfortable to him. Blaise’s was on his belt and Theo had mimicked Draco but on the right side instead of left because he was left handed.

“Works for me,” Theo looked over at the other two. “Think Draco will agree to allow another to eat his ice cream?”

“Blaise may be the harder one to convince.” Hadrian giggled.

“It’s not gelato, Hadrian. I’m willing to share.” Blaise glared, having overheard them. “Come choose flavours with us.” After much deliberation and arguing they finally came to an agreement and called for Florean.

“What can I get for you lads?”

“We’re going to get a giant sundae with one scoop each of dark chocolate raspberry, vanilla blueberry swirl, apple pie, and brownie fudge.” Draco stated, pointing at each type of ice cream as he named them. “Fudge topping on the raspberry and blueberry. Caramel topping on the apple pie and brownie. Whipped cream and cherry, but no nuts.” Draco pulled out the exact change and set it on the counter before the others could pull out their money. Hadrian saw no reason to argue with Draco paying since it meant more money for books.

“Take a seat, lads, and I’ll bring that right out to you.” He smiled wide showing a lot of crooked teeth.

The four quickly claimed one of the indoor booths by the shop windows. The seating allowed them to easily see north and south along Diagon. It didn’t take long for Florean to bring their giant sundae, setting it on the table between them, with four long handled spoons.

“You feeling better after all that? You seemed exhausted,” said Blaise.

“I was exhausted, but I feel fine now.”

“Might have been your magic and the wands you played with,” Theo said, looking at Hadrian from his seat next to Draco. “If Ollivander said you were compatible with all of them then maybe they helped you to recover.”

“Better theory than any I had ready,” Hadrian quipped, sucking on a good hefty scoop of the vanilla blueberry swirl. It was covered in fudge and whipped cream. Blaise and Draco quietly squabbled over the cherry on top of the sundae until Theo stole it, making both boys sulk at him. Florean, seeing this, stopped by and dropped three more. One for each of them. Hadrian had once heard that the Muggle world used artificial flavors in almost everything. Cassius had gone on a long rant about it when he came home from Texas once. Although he did mention how their tacos, whatever that was, couldn’t be beat and then promised to make Hadrian some someday. Like his mom, he didn’t like house-elves cooking for him much.

Even though they were in public, the boys found it hard to completely avoid being themselves. It helped that there weren’t any other customers in the shop and Florean was happily distracted behind the counter and not paying attention to them.

“Oh Merlin, look at that. What is she wearing?” Draco suddenly said. All of them looked out the window to see what caught his attention.

Across the street an older woman was yelling outside of a shop. They couldn’t hear what was being said, but it was clear the woman was unhappy. From the clothes she was wearing, it was evident to them that she was an older witch and likely a Pureblood.

“Is she wearing mink in the middle of summer?” Theo asked, perplexed.

“That’s what you’re focusing on? Not the fact that none of the colors and patterns match? Such a fashion disaster.” Blaise shuddered. “Don’t look. We need to save our fashion sensibilities.”

“Don’t be so dramatic, Blaise,” Hadrian laughed. “Although I’m questioning why she thinks an animal on her hat is a good choice. Is that a vulture? Those aren’t even native here.”

Theo leaned closer and squinted a bit. Hadrian suspected he needed glasses but would never say such. “I think that’s Lady Longbottom. If so, the vulture makes sense. She’s a self-proclaimed hunter. Father said she does nothing but brag, especially about the nundu she managed to acquire.”

Hadrian’s eyes narrowed and a flash of heat flowed through him. “How disgusting. Nundu are an endangered species.” He shook his head furiously. “Cass said that Muggles hunt to and for sport and then hang the carcasses on the wall. Not just a well preserved skeleton either. They stuff all of it or just the head that they cut off.” He shook his head as Draco and Theo gave him looks of real disgust. Blaise was not surprised. “I do not approve. We have to preserve what little we have left.” He huffed at this and scooped more ice cream into his mouth.

“Hunting was supposedly outlawed in 1946,” Theo told them. “When that great fire consumed a lot of the wildlife outside of London. Most were mundane, but it took out many smaller magical creatures that were hidden in the dells and groves.”

“Outlawed for most you mean.” Blaise said. “Let’s be honest. There’s always going to be someone who can get around it.”

“I’ll bet that mink isn’t humanely sourced,” said Hadrian. “Poor things.” His opinion of the Longbottoms had sunk lower. He hadn’t mentioned meeting Neville to the others. He didn’t see a point.

Blaise swallowed thickly. “I see its tail,” he said cautiously.

All of them turned their backs on the disturbing woman. “And they call us monsters?” Hadrian hissed. “Hah.”

Draco made quick work of the rest of the ice cream when Hadrian, Blaise, and Theo declared they were done. Hadrian had never seen anyone consume sweets as quickly as Draco. He even looked around brazenly for anyone who might be watching before lifting the boat and drinking down the fudge and caramel melted bits.

Blaise laughed at him and Theo shook his head. “Better not tell your mother about that.”

“I’ll hex you.”

Blaise made a flourish when lifting the napkin and wiped Draco’s mouth of the ice cream mustache mixed with caramel making Draco roll his eyes. “You looked around, no one saw you.” He grinned. “Don’t want to walk around filthy now do you?”

“Shut up.” But Draco let him because his vanity was more important than just about anything else.

“Books?”

“Yes!” Theo was on his feet as Florean swooped around them.

“Shall I take this lads?”

“Thank you, Mr. Fortescue,” all of them chorused politely.

“My pleasure.”

Flourish and Blotts was one of the largest shops in the alley. It had a double door entry and Hadrian noticed that the shop’s front was gleaming. He couldn’t remember if it was like this before or if it was because of the rush of magic that had swept through the alley. The windows were stained glass and they could see a few people inside browsing. A couple of what looked like much older teenagers were presenting lists to the shopkeep. He would flick his wand and all the necessary materials would come floating and then stack perfectly in front of each customer.

“Let’s look around!” Theo was already disappearing behind a tall towering stack and out of sight. Draco went toward the Quidditch section, to no surprise.

“This is the most excited I’ve seen Theo,” Blaise said, shaking his head. “We’ve got to fix that, Hadrian.”

“Give it time, we will,” Hadrian promised as he glanced at several different books on display. He wrinkled his nose when he spotted a new title called Voyages with Vampires. Instead of showing anything useful on the cover, like a small synopsis, it had the face of a blond haired wizard smiling and winking at them.

Yuck.

“Maybe I should let mother know about a potential new daddy,” Blaise whispered as he passed by Hadrian’s back causing him to giggle as he dropped his chin.

“Least he has good teeth?” Hadrian snarked trying to be serious.

“Oh yeah, good strong teeth.”

“You on Draco? Pull him back from the depths.”

“Why me?” Blaise groaned. “I’m not a fan of Quidditch. I just like watching men getting sweaty and sometimes beating each other up.”

“I do well enough in pulling Marcus away.” He wondered why Marcus and Cassius weren’t in the alley with them that day. Or any of the others, but Augustus had said the shopping trip would just be the four of them.

“Divide and conquer then.” He kissed Hadrian on the cheek and they separated. Blaise wound around toward the Quidditch section as Hadrian took on the task of having to hunt down Theo. The other wouldn’t be easy to spot since he was average in height for their age.

He found himself weaving deeper and deeper into the stacks and shelves of books. A few came flying out as some were summoned or they went on their own toward the center where the shopkeep happened to be. He easily dodged the flying books.

He had another reason for hunting down Theo, because if there were any good Defense books then Theo would know where they were. He could pick up his recommendations since rumor had it that the Defense was going to be a pointless class. Defense, not Defense Against the Dark Arts. Hadrian would never call it the latter.

As he was weaving further toward the back where there was a mustier smell, a girl came rushing out from behind a stack with her nose in a book. If Hadrian hadn’t been aware of his surroundings she would have knocked right into him. He dodged her quick enough that it would impress anyone with Quidditch skills. “Whoa!”

The girl whirled around, but all he saw was a mass of brown ratty curls and no face. “Oh, I’m sorry!” said the curls and he thought he saw a couple of larger than average teeth in there somewhere.

Hadrian wanted to tell her that Sleekeazy Hair potion could potentially help her out. But he didn’t want to be rude. He loved Draco, but coming off too rude was not his style. “It’s fine, Miss, but please watch where you’re going.”

“Right - uhm.” She threw her hair back to reveal big brown eyes and a slim mousey like face. “Name is Hermione. Hermione Granger.” Her two front teeth were quite large, but Hadrian could see where she’d be cute if she tamed her hair.

Muggleborn, Hadrian knew instantly. “Nice to meet you. Well, excuse me. I have to find my friend before he gets sucked into a book.”

Her eyes grew round. “Is that possible? I’ve had some books trying to bite my toes! I’m here alone. My parents couldn’t get in. You see they’re Muggles, but Professor McGonagall assured me that Muggles could come into Diagon Alley. We got to the Leaky Cauldron an hour ago and they couldn’t get through! I wonder why that is?” She spoke so fast that Hadrian almost didn’t understand what she was saying. She took gulping breaths between each sentence.

“I - don’t know, Miss Granger…” He wondered if messing with that rune had caused all of Diagon Alley to seal off from Muggles. He hadn’t intended to do that, but he wasn’t going to look a Hippogriff in the mouth without bowing first.

“Well, it’s caused quite a stir I’ll tell you that,” said Granger sharply. “I wasn’t the only one with trouble. I’m lucky my parents trusted and believed Professor McGonagall or I wouldn’t be here now. I had a right time with the goblins, they didn’t seem very nice. My parents are dentists by the way. Do you know what that is?”

“Not at all. Goblins are honest creatures, but they don’t care for humans much. Especially those who waste their time.”

She nodded. “I suppose so.” It seemed his dig at her went unnoticed. If she rattled on to the goblins like she was doing to him they’d be rather annoyed. She then went into a spiel about dentistry. Something about yanking someone’s teeth out, and what was this about an electric saw? He knew what a normal saw was and the very thought of it coming anywhere near his mouth was quite the painful imagery.

What the bloody hell? “Uhm, that is great Miss Granger that Muggles tend to practice oral torture on one another, but I really have to go and find my friend.”

“What? It’s not torture! It’s important. Healthy teeth are important to have but I can’t help but wonder if there is a spell I can use to help mine alone. My parents want me to get braces.”

“Whatever you say.” Hadrian deadpanned.

“Sorry, I’m just so excited. I’m the first in my family to get my letter!” No shit that was an obvious statement, he thought. “So it came as a great surprise to me. I’ve been reading Hogwarts A History. Of course, I’m going to buy it - I promise! But I just got so excited to read about where I’m going. Can you believe there are four houses? I want to be a Gryffindor like the Headmaster. They say that Headmaster Dumbledore is the most powerful wizard in the world and the only one who scared You Know Who.”

Hadrian was trying to inch back as she continued on. You Know Who? Hadrian wondered as he moved away from her. She didn’t seem to notice.

“But you know, they say they don’t know what happened to You Know Who that night. All the Potters died except for the child and he’s still missing. All that was found was his baby blanket. Isn’t that horrible? I can’t believe something like that could happen.” Ah, she meant Voldemort or what everyone liked to call Riddle. He hadn’t heard the You Know Who moniker for him. How silly was that? She leaned close to him, her eyes impossibly wide as she stared right at him. “Oh, that’s an interesting scar you have there!” She pointed inappropriately. “How did you get that?”

“Every world has their wars, Miss Granger. I will see you at Hogwarts,” he quickly cut off before the conversation could veer off further. He did not bother answering about the scar. As if he would entertain such personal questions from a Muggleborn.

“Okay, bye - er - what’s your name again?” But he never responded as he curved around a shelf and out of sight. Merlin’s beard, some people needed to put a lid on it. At least in the public. He supposed he could understand her excitement, but goodness.

He hadn’t felt a thing from her. He hadn’t realized that Muggleborns were as empty of alignment as Muggles were. He was going to have to get used to the sensation when he got to school where he’d have Muggleborn classmates.

Still, dentists. What moronic Muggle came up with that idea? Who would pay for that?

“Hadrian? You look like you’ve seen something you wish you never had.”

“You are a Ravenclaw, no matter the house the hat decides. Just had an enlightening conversation with a Muggleborn.” Theo made a face at this that he couldn’t control. “Something about teeth and the horrors Muggles inflict on one another.”

“Er - okay, does not sound pleasant.”

“My imagery is certainly not. So, what did you find? Anything useful? Where’s your books?” Theo ducked his head sheepish and stepped to the side revealing a stack that had been behind him that went to his waist. “Okay, forget I asked. Choose a couple for me? If Defense is going to be shoddy this year I want to at least do independent study.”

“Already done.”

“Cheers, mate. Any other books you want right now?”

“I’m good. I hope I have enough for all of them and my school books.”

“If not I can get them and share.” Hadrian wouldn’t offer to buy them for Theo, he wouldn’t embarrass his friend like that. Nor would he offer a loan for the same reason. Claiming them and letting Theo borrow them helped Theo save face. If they were at Rookwood castle he could have, but not in a public space.

Hadrian said not another word as he flicked his wand into his hand. It shimmered as he swiped it into the air and the books levitated. All of them rose and then floated toward the shopkeep.

Theo gasped. “Wow…! How did you do that?”

“I just wanted to.”

He shook his head. “Only you, Hadrian.”

“Come on, let’s go find Draco. I can’t wait to scare him with teeth and Muggles.” He looped his arm around Theo’s neck who didn’t flinch or push him off.

“Oh, this I have to hear. You better exaggerate.”

“Count on it.”

Rodolphus found them to let them know that Augustus and Lucius were running late. He found them in enough time to give Hadrian, Blaise, Draco, and Theo time to purchase the rest of their things before heading to High Street instead of backtracking at another date. It’d been a long time since Hadrian told him about the meeting and Draco was still shuddering after the extra gruesome details of dentistry were laid out for him.

Blaise hadn’t been able to pull him away from the Quidditch books on his own. He had even tried to stick his tongue in Draco’s ear, but the boy had all but ignored him. That was what Hadrian and Theo had come upon, Blaise pouting when Draco didn’t react at all.

“Stupid Quidditch,” he muttered darkly. “Only thing good about it are the visuals.”

High Street looked nothing like Diagon Alley nor did it have the same feel. It was a gorgeous street. Most of the buildings, while close together, were tall and painted white. The architecture had a lot of French influence with some Italian and Greek thrown in all around. A black kissing gate met them at the start of the street. Rodolphus bypassed the toll before them with a touch of his magic. All of them had exclusive passes for it and didn’t bother to stop to pay the fee. Rodolphus threw back his hood and let out a sigh of relief when he stepped into the bricked courtyard that had a sparkling silver fountain with a statue of a witch and wizard linked together by the arms in the center. All around the red brick pathway were flowerbeds and a few small, delicate and thin trees.

Hadrian could feel the heavy use of magic on the street. Magic use was much more prevalent here. Most of it was Dark, but he could feel the others and it didn’t make him recoil like some of the magic in Diagon had. It was more balanced. All the shop fronts and windows were squeaky clean. Every now and then you could catch a glimpse of a house-elf popping away with a soft crack.

The gate swung closed behind them. A small smattering of finely dressed witches and wizards were walking sedately and slowly among the flowerbeds. Rodolphus threw off the tartan green cloak, putting it over his arm, to reveal fine robes of deep purple with some white linen poking out.

“Better?” Hadrian chirped as he linked his hand over Rodolphus’ arm free.

“You look good in purple. I should know,” said Blaise smirking.

“You’re way too young to have that smile, little Zabini,” Rodolphus chuckled. “Leave that to your Lady mother.”

“Take it up with my mother if it bothers you.” He winked, causing Rodolphus to snort and then laugh.

“Must admit, being near a Zabini tends to raise one's ego from the flattery,” he grinned.

“Oi, Blaise, are you hitting on my uncle?” Draco asked in disgust.

“No. Just making an honest observation. Not my fault if you take it that way.” Hadrian couldn’t tell if Blaise was being honest or not. He was too good at hiding when he was bluffing.

“You alive over there, Theo?” Theo was in a world of his own as he walked and read at the same time. At least it was a thin book he was reading. He managed to avoid most everything, Draco had to steer him at one point to keep him from running into some dancing daisies and trampling on them.

Rodolphus looked amused, though he kept his expression blank. They were still in public even if they were in an area reserved for the nobles and upper middle class. His eyes however shined as they made their way up a gently sloping hill that was all paved in brick. No ruts or breaks to be seen.

“Where are we eating?” Hadrian asked as they passed by the Golden Peacock. The double doors were charmed to look like a large gold peacock split down the middle with the long sleek handles in the middle of the peacock’s body. Its fan of feathers were actually stained glass windows in an array of different colors. In the shop’s windows some of the most beautiful gems and jewelry could be seen, including a big fat pink diamond. Hadrian did not know how such a Light family managed to come by some of their stock. He didn’t care enough to ask about it either.

“The Dancing Naga.”

“Ooh, seafood,” Hadrian cheered. “I haven’t had oysters or shrimp since New Years.”

“Mmmmm, lobster,” said Draco, airily.

“I’m surprised with all the ice cream you ate, you’re not full,” said Blaise.

“That was a snack.” Blaise snorted at this and Hadrian fully believed that Draco believed his own words.

“As long as it’s in that garlic and lemon sauce,” said Hadrian.

“Even better. Theo, I’m going to steal your book if you don’t shut it,” Draco huffed, causing Theo’s head to snap up.

“That’s not nice, Draco. I’ll tell your mother.”

“No you won’t.”

Theo snapped the book shut. “Okay, fine I won’t. But I’ll steal a bite of your lobster when no one is looking.”

“You can certainly try.”

Rodolphus had to cough behind a hand to stifle his laugh so that he didn’t alarm the couple that passed them by. High Street was aptly named because a lot of the buildings sat together on a ringed hill. It could leave anyone’s legs feeling a bit like jelly if they weren’t used to it, but they had been visiting the street for years.

The Dancing Naga sat on the top of the hill and on the west side of the ring. Its name was emblazoned in an arch of silver over top of the door. A silver mer was etched on each glass pane of the blue/black walnut door. Most of the glass on the storefront looked foggy or beveled.

No smell hit them until Rodolphus opened the door for them. “After you, little masters.”

Most of The Dancing Naga was decorated in a crushed sea green or blue velvet. Not a real surprise, everything in the shop was water themed. Hadrian could smell the fresh garlic and the seafood and it made his mouth water enough that he had to keep it closed. On the wall behind the hostess’ bar was a massive alive landscape of the ocean that stretched across the whole wall as you came in so you had no choice but to notice it. It showed the ocean in all of its variety of green and blue hues, from the dark bottom to light waters further up the painting your eyes climbed. Seaweed and underwater plants danced as bubbles rose up from the coral and painted structures that varied in shapes and sizes. It looked so real that it always made Hadrian want to reach a finger out and pop one of the bubbles or see if his finger could go through it.

Only every now and then would you glimpse a mer swimming. Their hair colors varied along with the shiny scales of their tail fins. A few fish swam together in schools, from yellow tangs to a funny spiky puffskein kind of fish. Since it was a painting, it did not matter whether the water was salt or freshwater. It could trick the mind if you stared at it long enough, making you believe you could fall through the paint into the water.

A young woman dressed in a floor length mermaid cut green robe approached. Her hair was knotted in a perfect twist at the top of her hair, and a tasteful amount of makeup covered her face. The makeup highlighted her eyes and had rhinestones making it look like scales on her skin.

Her smile was crisp and perfectly polite as she approached. “Welcome, sirs. Do you have a reservation?”

“We’re with the Malfoy and Rookwood party,” said Rodolphus.

She bowed her head. “Of course, sir. The rest of your party has already arrived and been seated upon their request. Your party is sitting in a private room so please follow me back.”

Hadrian noted that it was a busy night in the restaurant as they followed after her. There were many couples and only a tiny smattering of children sitting around tables. Most of the conversation they could overhear was quiet and reserved. Beyond that only the sound of clanking silverware or goblets could be heard. None of the children were yelling or running about, disturbing the other patrons. Hadrian knew that most added silencers around their table after the server had taken their orders, especially the private rooms.

Privacy was a wizard or witch’s best friend. It was very easy to overhear conversations if one was not careful. It’s how gossip ran rampant. Narcissa loved to gossip about everyone else’s business, but Merlin help anyone if someone gossiped about Malfoy business. Least of all in earshot of her.

The private room they were led to was in the back and in a completely separate area to the rest of the otherwise open seating and floor plan. It was hidden behind a set of double doors with fogged glass so that patrons couldn’t see in. Hadrian knew that it was clear from the other side though so that those in the room could see out. Perfect for watching any drama that might occur in the main room.

The private room was very expansive with one long blue and black walnut table as the centerpiece. There was also a full bar of alcohol that sat flush to the painted blue back wall. Above the bar was an aquarium that sat in a cutout in the wall. Hadrian wondered what was on the other side of the wall with the rest of the aquarium. Pretty angelfish were swimming around in it.

Hadrian was excited to see that more than Narcissa was waiting for them. Everyone in the room stood as the hostess presented them. “The rest of your party has arrived.”

After a look at who was in the room, Rodolphus turned to her. “We have two more set to join us soon.”

“I will send them right through,” she assured. “When you’re ready just call.” She bowed to them and then swept out leaving them alone as she shut the doors.

Sitting with Narcissa on her side of the table was Zenyatta Zabini, Susanna Warrington, Tatiana Montague, Angelina Flint, Marguerite Pucey, Ellyn Higgs, and surprisingly Lady Nott who never came out of her manor. It was shocking enough that Theo had to work hard not to react. On the other side of the table were some of the men across from their wives. Rodolphus went to sit in front of Lady Zabini as greetings were exchanged. A final seat to Rodolphus’ right was left for Augustus since Lucius would sit in the free seat across from his wife. Narcissa kissed her son on both cheeks and made inquiries about his supplies as Theo kissed his mother’s hand. Blaise outright hugged his mother in a much warmer embrace as she raked her long painted nails gently down her son’s back.

It wasn’t the adults who had Hadrian’s attention though. Further along the table were the rest of their friends. Across from Marcus and Cassius, Adrian, Graham and Terry had sat in a reflection of their ages with Adrian closest to the adults and Terry furthest. Normally children would sit by age order, the eldest would all sit on one side and the youngest on the other. However, it seems the guys wanted to change it up a bit today.

It was a big party of people, but at least Hadrian knew all of them and there were only a few he was uncomfortable around. He happily moved forward to greet the adults first as tradition expected.

“Augustus wanted a more private supper to celebrate your birthday, Hadrian, since your party was unfortunately hijacked by unseemly matters,” said Narcissa, brushing a hand down his arm as he greeted his godmother with an air kiss to her cheek.

“Not to mention the unseemly guests. Most of them were so very rude,” Susanna’s eyes flickered discreetly down to Lady Flint who didn’t seem to notice because she was scowling at her son who walked duck-footed away from her to Hadrian’s side, ignoring the convention of waiting for the youngest to come to them. Cassius had followed and Hadrian was urged to sit with them. Hadrian, ignoring Lady Flint and Nott, moved to greet both teens with kisses to their cheeks. He was surprised when both moved to kiss his neck making him giggle at the tickle. Marcus then swung his arm heavily around Hadrian, nearly lifting him from the ground as he was guided much to the clucking disapproval of Lady Flint and a sigh from Narcissa. He worked hard to ignore the fluttering as his hand was taken by Cassius while Marcus’ arm stayed around him. He was aware that Marcus’ fingers caressed his side as Cassius’ thumb rubbed the back of his hand.

Cassius chuckled and used his free hand to fix Hadrian’s robes right where they wrinkled in Marcus’ hold. He winked at Hadrian who just looked up at him with a small frown, he really didn’t understand these boys.

Teenagers.

“Really, where are your manners, boy?” Lady Flint snapped.

“Not anywhere near you,” Marcus grunted.

“We are all in good company, Angelica. Company too warm to always keep manners in check,” Susanna hummed with a light hand flap.

“I agree, Susanna,” said Zenyatta with a full laugh. “Besides, this is a real celebration. You don’t even have to remember your salad fork should you not want to.”

Hadrian couldn’t help but laugh at that. He always forgot. Marcus pulled out the seat Cassius had originally been in and held it for Hadrian to sit in. Cassius, without skipping a beat, claimed the next seat down so that Hadrian sat between him and Marcus, nevermind he was the youngest at the table and should be sitting at the end with Draco. Blaise quickly claimed the seat on Cassius’ other side, leaving Theo and Draco to take the last seats next to Terry.

“Leave him alone, Angelica,” Morpheus grunted. “Let the boys be boys.”

“You’re too soft, Morpheus.”

“Quiet. We aren’t discussing this again.” He hissed at her, causing her to frown and swallow what more she would have said. He turned and his smile was full of real warmth that most would not expect of the hulking man that was Morpheus Flint. “I’m sorry I did not greet you last night, Hadrian. It was quite rude of me. Unfortunately, we had a rather stressing matter that took most of our attention, including your father.”

“No apologies on my account, Lord Flint. Besides, you brought the best part of you to me last night.” He nudged Marcus as he said this, making Morpheus’ face shine even brighter in a very rare and unusual way. “I couldn’t have asked for a better gift.”

Lady Flint scoffed. “Really?” She muttered lowly. “Nothing better?”

“I’m confused, I thought you went back to Italy today, Mother?” Blaise directed at the lovely witch.

No one had to yell or talk loudly to be heard, voices carried normally as though they were sitting beside one another. It was an ingenious bit of magic. He shivered in surprise when Cassius’ fingers brushed down his arm and he looked over at the blue eyed boy before feeling too shy to keep looking at him and directing his attention back to the adults.

“I stayed at Malfoy Manor after Augustus pulled me aside. I’ve been contemplating buying some property here since we’ve been spending so much time here recently. Especially with you deciding to go to Hogwarts for schooling instead of one of the options on the Continent. Augustus says there’s a charming estate on the edge of old Feldcroft.”

“He’s been in the process of trying to restore some of the housing to their former glory,” Hadrian offered.

“No easy task and on top of being an Unspeakable and on the Wizengamot, I am impressed by the time he has on his hands,” said Callum Warrington.

Hadrian had his hands folded in his lap just beneath the table. He had the urge to put his elbows or forearms on the table, but knew that wouldn’t do. He didn’t want Lady Nott to call out on ‘Muggle behavior’.

“Don’t forget raising Hadrian so well,” said Rodolphus.

“Good thing you’re there too,” said Oberon Montague. “I think the man would never sleep otherwise.”

“I do try. I like being a trophy more than you realize.” Everyone laughed except for the Notts and Angelica Flint. Even Narcissa was smiling.

“It looks good on you, Rodolphus,” she said fondly.

“I told him that in not so many words,” Blaise offered as his mother grinned slyly.

“Twelve year olds should not be saying such things,” Rodolphus chortled.

“He is a Zabini. I am surprised you would be surprised, Rodolphus,” Zenyatta purred, making Narcissa shake her head.

Some of the conversations overlapped, but never ran into each other or distracted. Albert Pucey was in conversation with Nott Snr. Lady Flint had started a conversation with Lady Nott about the elixir that Theo had brought her and how she was sure that it would work wonders this time, asking the woman to let her know of the results.

Once everyone stopped focusing on him, Hadrian could focus on much more appealing matters like his friends. He loved his friends’ parents, but he couldn’t relate to them yet. He wondered why his dad and Lucius were so late though. His stomach was rumbling. Looking at Draco who was murmuring to Adrian about something, Hadrian figured he too would be getting hungry.

“Hadrian.” Hadrian twitched when Cassius’ mouth was a mere inch from his hair and ear. The teen’s breath caused a tingle to travel down his spine. He could feel the hot breath against his thick black strands as he reached up and tucked a lock behind his ear on instinct.

“Hm?”

“You’re still upset with us,” said Cassius.

“I’m not,” he lied.

“You can’t lie to save your life,” Marcus grunted, shifting and slipping his arm behind Hadrian’s back to rest on the small spot against his spine. His shoulder blocked a lot of Hadrian’s view of the table.

“I can if I want to.” Hadrian frowned.

“Don’t encourage him to practice, Marcus,” said Cassius, chuckling softly. “I like that we can tell when he tries.” One of Cassius’ hands came up and brushed along Hadrian’s cheek, trailing under his eye. “His eyes always tell the truth.”

“I can teach him,” Blaise purred silkily, leaning on Cassius’ chair arm, only to get two simultaneous glares that heated instantly.

“You’ve taught him enough, I should think…” Cassius’ drawl came out a bit strong and thick at that.

Blaise chuckled richly. “What’s wrong? Scared you have competition?”

Marcus snarled at this, low and deep in his throat. Hadrian looked from one to the other, wondering what on earth was going on as Cassius chuckled.

“You can sure try.” Hadrian watched Cassius’ eyes flick over Blaise. “I can’t fault you for trying.”

“So gracious.”

Hadrian couldn’t wait until he was old enough to figure out what the bloody hell these boys were talking about. Adrian was snickering in Hadrian’s direction and Graham adjusted his glasses in acknowledgment. “Poor Hadrian,” he said simply.

Hadrian wasn’t dim by any means. He also wasn’t an embarrassed mess like Draco and Theo tended to be. He did not blush much or get shy, but these two had always been able to make him react in ways that surprised him. Even when he didn’t understand it. It drove him crazy.

Fingers twirled at the end of his hair, bringing his attention back to his situation. He saw that it was Marcus who was playing with the ends of his hair with his free hand.

“We have room over here if you want to sneak under the table,” Terry mock-whispered.

“No.” Cassius and Marcus said at the same time making the puppy faced teen laugh behind a hand.

Draco shook his head. “I am bloody hungry.”

“Draco, I heard that! Mind your language,” Narcissa sniped from the other end.

The blond grimaced and hid a roll of his eyes. “Yes, Mother, my apologies.”

Hadrian felt the tingle of magic before nearly everyone else in the room and looked toward the center of the table. “I think some food is coming.” Just like that, gold and silver platters appeared in a shimmer. They were laden with fresh delicious food from shrimp on ice to clams in garlic butter to rolls of fresh sushi. Dinner rolls with delicious fresh cheeses and garlic were served with several spreads of butter. Some herb crusted crab cakes morphed into a tasteful decoration on a few of the platters.

“Do we really have to wait, Mother?” asked Draco. He had to work extra hard to keep the childlike tone out of his voice when asking.

“Not this time, Draco,” said Narcissa. “We’ve ordered more than enough. Once Augustus and Lucius arrive we can have our actual order put in. It would be rude to do otherwise.”

Marcus was already bringing over the muffins having caught Hadrian eyeing them like they were gold. Cassius brought over the clams because he knew Hadrian loved them. It was slightly annoying that they knew all his favorites, especially when he was trying to stay mad at them.

Draco hadn’t cared about anyone but himself as he pulled a plate of crab cakes towards him. He tried not to inhale the crab cakes or lose his manners. It wasn’t until Hadrian’s small plate was full of a few things he liked best that Marcus and Cassius saw to themselves and finally let him go.

Blaise sent down the shrimp on ice and some extra muffins to Theo who kept sneaking snippets of his book under the table. He was the furthest away and most likely to get away with it. Hadrian shook his head in mild exasperation and some fondness. Graham burst out laughing and had to hide his mouth when the adults looked down the table.

“What has gotten into you, Graham?” Tatiana Montague asked her son. “You’re not usually this giggly.”

“Nothing mother,” Graham tried to control his laugh only for his eyes to water as he looked away. His shoulders shook almost uncontrollably as Hadrian ate quietly and slowly with his mouth closed.

“Let them be. I think there was enough ice last night at a table that was not built on friends or equality,” said Oberon. “We don’t need more here.”

“Unfortunately it was unavoidable,” said Nott Snr, shaking his head.

Hadrian felt someone kick under the table trying to aim toward Graham but hit Adrian causing the redhead to yelp. “Ouch!”

“Sorry.” Marcus grunted, stuffing a muffin in his mouth. “Wrong one.”

Adrian glared and leaned down to rub. “Fuck, your kicks..” he breathed, barely above a whisper.

“Glad it wasn’t me,” Graham grinned. Adrian silently pinched Graham making him shift uncomfortably.

“Next time, Montague.”

Graham let out an odd snerk sound that had Draco arching a brow. “Better you get chastised than me,” he muttered.

“My Mother doesn’t have the hearing of an owl like yours,” he hissed, causing Draco to grumble silently in agreement.

Blaise had served himself some sushi using chopsticks to eat them as Theo passed him one of the small soy sauce trays. Hadrian was about to reach for his second muffin when the double doors finally opened. Poised and graceful as ever, his dad and Lucius swept through the room. Everyone stood once more as they came in. “Once you are ready the menus will be in front of each of you to order.” The hostess said before leaving the room.

Draco quickly stuffed another cake into his mouth, shut it, and wiped his hands free of crumbs on a napkin. Theo hid the book he was trying to read behind his back.

“Please don’t stand on ceremony on our account today, friends,” Augustus insisted, and while he did not sound tired or stressed, Hadrian saw the wrinkle on his face as he passed everyone at the table as Lucius greeted his wife and everyone else.

Hadrian looked up at him as he was pulled into the man’s hot warm chest. He was caressed on his cheeks and his forehead kissed. “I am sorry I was late. Rodolphus let me know that your wand matching was quite incredible. He also says you have another tale to tell, but that it is yours and yours alone to tell.”

“You should probably eat first, Dad. You’re looking a bit pale.” He said when Augustus naturally bent down so Hadrian could kiss his bearded cheek lovingly.

“I believe we could all use some food if the crumbs on Draco’s seat are anything to go by,” said Lucius, causing Draco to squeak and turn bright red.

“I was hungry… we missed lunch.”

“We were at Ollivanders for hours,” Blaise offered. “Even the sundae we had wasn’t enough.”

“That was your fault and Hadrian’s,” Theo added. “For two very different reasons.”

“You are not being lectured. Now, everyone sit. Theodore pass the wine, please,” said Lucius.

Nott Snr passed it down to Lucius. Rodolphus poured a glass for Augustus once Lucius was done. Hadrian knew his dad wanted to sit with Hadrian and hear the story he had to tell but the table set up wasn’t very conducive to it. So he wasn’t surprised when his dad grabbed his glass and came down to the teens’ end of the table. Augustus was a very attentive man after all. Adrian and Graham happily made room for him. Graham offering his seat but Augustus waved it off and produced his own which got placed between the boys.

“Let’s order our actual meal and then we’ll talk.”

“After I finish this wine,” said Lucius, tightly.

“Must be serious. You’re more of a whiskey man,” said Wallace Higgs, recognizing the stress on Lucius’ face behind his normally impeccable facade.

“Whiskey will inebriate me and tonight none of us need to be inebriated,” said Lucius.

“What happened, Lucius?” asked Narcissa patiently after he’d taken a couple of good sips of wine.

Augustus sipped from glass. “First, let’s hear about their adventure. I’m quite curious and that’ll give Lucius time to finish his glass before we get into less pleasant tales.”

Lucius inclined his head. “I am impressed if it really took hours. Ollivander is often quite keen.”

“Mine was fairly quick,” Draco told him.

“So was mine,” said Theo.

“I know you would have liked to have been there for the history in wands, Dad,” Hadrian couldn’t help but say as he leaned forward a bit eagerly.

“Oh?” Augustus was now hooked.

“Yes.” He then brought his arm out and flicked his wrist causing the wand to slide out. Most of the women gasped when they saw the gorgeous golden glimmer of the wood.

“It’s gorgeous!” Zenyatta breathed.

“What on earth is in it?” Morpheus asked, even he was in awe.

“Well, that’s where it gets interesting. While a lot of wands tried to run away and hide from me it seems every single wand wanted to come home with Hadrian,” Blaise said with a wide grin.

“What does that mean?” asked Augustus.

“It means that just about every wand in that shop was compatible with me somehow and it confused Ollivander.”

“Confused him? I’m impressed,” said Albert.

“He had to apparate to Hogsmeade to get mine,” said Blaise. “No matter which wand Hadrian tried, they all wanted him. Particularly that odd holly wand. I wonder what was so mysterious about it that had Ollivander unnerved?”

“He said it was a brother wand with a phoenix tail feather,” said Hadrian. “Its brother was a yew that had already been given to someone. I think that someone has to be dead because he used past tense.” He noted the ripple of looks from the men at the table, but acted like he didn’t. “He seemed uneasy about it, but wasn’t satisfied with it for some reason, and so he worked himself into a stupor. This is the one that was in the window on display. It’s an elder wand with a thunderbird tail, the hatchling of your mother thunderbird, Cass.” He told the handsome teen.

Cassius smiled. “Is that so? So we have sibling wands?”

Hadrian nodded. “Yes.”

“He said it was the most beautiful wand he’d ever created, and it’d sat in the window asleep ever since he made it. I didn’t know wands could sleep?” Draco posed this as a question.

“I do not know the intricacies of wands or wandmaking,” said Augustus. “Not many do even if you do learn the history of it. It’s a natural born gift. A trait passed down the lines.”

“Seeing it in this light I believe that,” said Lady Nott. “Does yours look the same, Cassius?”

“No. Mine has laurel wood.” He pulled his out. It was dark and sleek with only a hint of gold along the wood grain.

“Ollivander also said he was trying to mimic another wand that was fabled? He called it the Death Stick.” Draco frowned at this. “Doesn’t look very deathly to me.”

“The Death Stick? That’s a myth. It doesn’t exist,” said Lucius.

“He said that the wand had the hair of a thestral, and that Gregorovich claimed to possess it last. But I don’t think he believed that or he did and was annoyed by it,” said Hadrian. “He said he tried to create a wand that was the polar opposite but using the same wood and methods.”

“Makes sense though, thunderbirds repel thestrals,” said Cassius. “They are said to be mortal enemies, and should a thestral and thunderbird come in contact with each other they are destined to fight.”

“Interesting,” said Augustus, rubbing his beard thoughtfully. “It’s a rather eye-catching wand that’s for certain.”

“What is yours, Blaise darling?”

“Horned serpent’s horn and ebony,” said Blaise showing his pitch black wand. It shined the light. All sleek and black. Perfect.

“Exquisite.”

“But that’s not even half of it,” Draco said. “You should tell them what happened before in the alley.”

Hadrian braced himself. He wasn’t embarrassed or shy in front of the eyes, but how did he explain it right when he didn’t really understand? So, he started at the top and explained Madam Malkins, though he left out meeting Heir Longbottom. There was no point in mentioning the boy. Augustus leaned forward, his eyes going serious when Hadrian dived into the runes around Diagon Alley starting to fail.

“Surely you’ve seen the shopkeepers and storefronts? I think it was drawing on their magic so much that they were all exhausted.”

“Mr. Twilfit almost spilled ink over white cashmere,” Blaise added in. Many of the ladies gasped in shock. Fashion disasters like that always got to the fashion conscious.

“I wasn’t planning on doing anything, but I thought I could see it and write it down to show you or Marcus, since you’re both so good with runes,” he explained. “My magic recoiled from it. There was Light magic all through the rune.”

“That shouldn’t be possible,” said Lucius. “I may not have taken Ancient Runes at Hogwarts, but even I know that.”

“That’s what Ollivander said. He can play witness to it,” said Blaise.

Hadrian told his father how he was drawn to the rune and when he touched it his magic reacted and his hand got stuck.

“That’s not all that happened,” said Theo with a frown. “Tell him the rest or I will.”

“I burned myself a bit.”

Blaise snorted. “A bit. It was black. Blacker than me. Blacker than a burnt up potion and the blisters were turning white. You were in tears, Hadrian.” Cassius was already reaching for his hand but Marcus got there first. Hadrian had to fight the instinct to blush, they seemed way too concerned.

“Yes, it hurt…” he said offhandedly as if it wasn’t a big deal.

“Let me see your hand,” said Augustus instantly.

“Ollivander healed it,” Rodolphus assured as Hadrian pulled his hand from the teens and showed his perfect clear hand to his dad. “I felt him. I felt the magic, Augustus, all the way from the Spiny Serpent. It was unlike anything - like - well - I think you know,” he left off at that as Augustus glanced once at him to let Rodolphus know he knew. Hadrian didn’t know what the look conveyed but something told him not to ask.

“You restored the rune?” Lucius deduced.

“I believe so. When we returned to the alley proper things were already starting to mend. I did more than that though. I didn’t realize it at the time,” said Hadrian, “but I met a Muggleborn in the bookshop when we were getting our books. She told me her parents couldn’t get into Diagon Alley. At all. She mentioned that she saw others were having the same issues.”

“All of the alley began to heal itself, like all the old wood and rot got renewed,” said Blaise. “It was incredible. Everyone could see it.”

“You managed to bar Muggles from the alley entirely?” Nott Snr gasped at him.

“I think so. I don’t know how I did it though,” said Hadrian.

“His hand got stuck to the rune and it was like it was sucking on his magic,” said Theo. “I tried and tried to get his hand off. It was horrible…” He shook his head slowly.

“Once it went cold I could let go,” said Hadrian. “Ollivander found us. We’d been by his shop earlier, having chosen it as the meeting place when we separated for our robes, but I wanted to look at the rune before I forgot. I intended to show it to you, Dad, or Marcus-” he reiterated. “I didn’t expect anything else to happen.”

Cassius’ fingers brushed through some of the strands of Hadrian’s hair. He was a bit embarrassed and too shy to look at him. He could feel Marcus’ energy up against him. His thick thigh to Hadrian’s smaller slimmer one. He didn’t know when Marcus had moved closer to him.

“But you did,” said Callum softly.

“You’ve been doing what we’ve been trying to accomplish for years, Hadrian,” said Lucius. “Do you know how incredible that is? It takes a huge weight off our shoulders. You barred Muggles from the Alley.”

“It does, but I do not like you putting yourself in so much danger or going through that kind of pain,” said Augustus, releasing Hadrian’s hand so that he could sit back down properly instead of leaning over the table like an uneducated poor person.

“I was fine, everyone helped take care of me. You don’t have to worry, Dad.”

“It’s my job to worry.”

Hadrian shook his head. “I was really tired and drained, like I wanted to go to sleep for a hundred years or something. But then I soon became right again. Theo thinks it’s because of all the wands I tried out. Each one I touched kind of helped give me my energy back.”

“Solid theory,” agreed his dad. He sat back and lifted his wine to drink more. Everyone was looking at him. A mixture of awe, curiosity, and something else Hadrian didn’t quite understand. Hadrian looked straight at his dad as if begging him with his eyes to change the subject. Augustus’ beard twitched. “Well, let’s finally order before young Draco clears the table. I’m pretty sure his rumbling stomach is stressing the silencing charms on the room.”

Draco’s face burned red and everyone had a good laugh. “I didn’t touch the sushi.” It was his only defense. “My apologies.”

“Boys and their appetites. It never ceases to amaze me,” Zenyatta giggled elegantly. “I hear good appetites make for good lovers.”

“Zenyatta!” Narcissa gasped out in exasperation as Draco made a noise and buried his face into his hand. All the men laughed, as well as a few of the ladies. Even Lucius had a good chuckle and he rarely ever chuckled.

Chapter Text

Chapter Seven

“Daring ideas are like chessmen moved forward. They may be beaten, but they may start a winning game.”

― Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

“Good news,” said Augustus after they’d consumed most of their order.

Hadrian had enjoyed his oysters and his glass of cucumber water always got refilled. Cassius and Marcus had gotten so close to him that he barely had elbow room.

“Our plan worked and the bill was shot down faster than anything I’d ever seen. For the first time we had a near majority ruling that included members from all sides.”

“What is the bad news?” asked Callum. “Lucius doesn’t switch to wine on good news.”

“We were late because Gringotts was robbed an hour and a half ago,” Augustus replied, stunning the entire room.

“How is that possible?” Morpheus asked heavily.

“It shouldn’t be, but it was.”

“What was taken?” Oberon asked, concerned.

“Nothing.”

“Nothing?” Nott Snr looked annoyed. “Then it wasn’t robbed.”

“Not entirely,” said Lucius, settling back. “Tell them the rest, Augustus.”

“An hour before the robbery, the Hogwarts Groundskeeper accessed the vault in question. A highly restricted old vault in the deepest pits. I didn’t catch whose vault it was but I am sure we can all put it together with our theories,” said Augustus, and a ripple of nods from all the men.

“But why rob an empty vault?”

“Good question, Wallace,” said Lucius.

“We don’t know. But it’s a damn good thing we all have an alibi,” said Augustus. “Lucius and I stuck around the Ministry in plain sight, overhearing talk that they were going to bring a handful of people in for questioning. I heard the Aurors mentioning Rowle.”

“You’re not serious?” Rodolphus hissed. “Father has been trying to get me to go to the Ministry and sit in on the Wizengamot sessions for the last two years now. I’ve fuckin’ refused. Don’t tell me I’m on their list. I won’t step foot in there.”

“Calm yourself, Rodolphus. Lucius slipped it to Minister Fudge that my son’s birthday was being celebrated again tonight, but this time with very close friends and family, and extended an invite to him. A stroke of brilliant genius on his part.”

“He was too busy with the robbery and sorting all of that out and the closing of the Wizengamot to accept. But he certainly appreciated the gesture,” said Lucius. “Enough to tell certain individuals to back the bloody hell off.”

“Lucius, mind your language in front of the children.” Narcissa hissed to him.

“Leave it for tonight, Narcissa.” Lucius waved her off. “Besides, they'll hear worse in Hogwarts soon enough.”

If only they’d heard Marcus when the adults weren’t near.

“Doesn’t sound like a coincidence,” Hadrian accidentally let out and then slapped his mouth shut. “Sorry, Dad.” He didn’t mean to interrupt. He wasn’t supposed to when Ministry issues were being discussed by their parents.

“No, you are correct, precious. It isn’t a coincidence that all of this is happening at the same time. Just when our cause is starting to gain ground and all of us have come together for the first time in a very long time.”

“I wonder why,” said Lucius, but he didn’t elaborate on the wondering and Hadrian wished he would. Many of the men shook their heads. It seemed they didn’t know either but knew what Lucius was contemplating.

“Either way. It seems the pieces are laid out now and it is anyone’s move.”

“We finally have movement,” said Morpheus. “We can all raise a glass to that.”

“For now, but it’s going to be a very long game.”

“I feel we’re still ahead with Hadrian’s stroke of accidental genius,” Callum chuckled and everyone followed along.

Hadrian huffed. “How can I be a genius when I have no idea what I did?” He pouted at the laughter. “I want a strawberry sponge,” he chirped and almost immediately a new plate appeared with a big thick slice and some silver forks. Hadrian passed one to each Cassius and Marcus. Adrian and Graham both eagerly leaned over to snag the last forks.

Augustus reached over and lifted off a sliced strawberry and smiled at his son. “I’m very proud of you, Hadrian.”

Hadrian didn’t know why, but he accepted his father’s words as the man popped the strawberry into his mouth and then engaged all the teenage boys in Hogwarts about their classes because at the end of the day, Augustus was a seeker of knowledge.

Once a Ravenclaw, always a Ravenclaw.

oOo

This is so ridiculous, Hadrian thought. He couldn’t understand the idea that he had to take the train when he could just take a coach up to Hogwarts and meet the train as it arrives. It felt like a waste of time and backtracking.

It seemed that word had gotten out about the rune in Diagon Alley being mysteriously recharged. Not only that but the barring of Muggles had made headlines next to the mysterious ‘attempted theft’ at Gringotts Bank. The Daily Prophet had a lot of fodder to give to its masses the rest of the month. Apparently, Rune Masters had finally been sent out by the Ministry to inspect the runes that protected Diagon Alley. Their findings reported that some runes showed signs of strain and damage that was being fixed as they watched and that the Masters could not touch the runes or alter them at any point around Diagon Alley. There was nothing they could do and Muggleborns would have to deal with the fact that their Muggle relatives were now unable to get through Diagon Alley. That meant that Hogwarts and Ministry officials had to escort each and every Muggleborn who was not old enough to be left on their own through the alley for their purchases.

Lucius was so happy that Hadrian caught him smiling when he wasn’t meant to. Draco told Hadrian that his father was contemplating getting Draco a broom for Yule, he was in such a good mood. His mother was less than pleased with that. It annoyed Hadrian that after that evening Cassius and Marcus went silent on him again. He appreciated the strawberry muffins that Callum brought him from Susanna though.

For the rest of the month, Hadrian had spent as much time with his father and Rodolphus as he could. Sometimes he would find himself over at Draco’s or Draco and Theo came to him. He even met up with Terry, Graham, and Adrian when they weren’t working on last minute homework. He didn’t like going to Theo’s manor and Theo much preferred coming to them when he was allowed. Blaise sadly had to go back home which meant they weren’t able to hang out. At least until the dueling competition that had been held in Paris, France which they had all attended.

Hadrian had never seen anything like it and he had tried so hard to remember some of those spells that they used. He was irritated though by the fourth year division, the youngest competitors, where a Light witch from France beat out one of UK’s finest young Pureblood duelists, Heir Brownstone. The Brownstone family was known for producing excellent duelers and of homeschooling their heirs. It’d been so stupid too. All she did was turn on her ‘charm’ and it had sent the duelist running in bloody circles.

He didn’t understand it nor did he see why a lot of men all around him were getting up on their feet and leaning too close. Many were even whistling like they were Muggle spectators or something. His father and Rodolphus had been unaffected. A quick glance around showed that all his friends and their fathers except for Nott Snr, who nearly jumped the wall and had sent Lady Nott into a tizzy, were also unaffected. Terry scoffed and asked how she was allowed to do that during an official international match. Blaise and his mother seemed disgusted with the witch but Hadrian didn’t find an opportunity to ask them about it. He did notice Zenyatta did slip away from everyone for a period of time before returning just as quietly.

It seemed the elixir for Lady Nott’s fast graying hair had worked and she was showing a sleek brown shade. Theo hinted that it smelled like mud to him. It might have had a few strands of seaweed green in it and Theo had whispered that there’d been Mer eggs in it from what he saw, but he supposed it was a step up from the bright gray enough for her to step out of the manor.

It looked to Hadrian like most of the men who had female partners had been affected. He was glad to see that Cassius and Marcus seemed more interested in their hands, glaring at them as they sat on either side of Hadrian. They were stiff and tense and looked quite annoyed about something.

Augustus’ hand fell onto his shoulder, bringing him back to the present. “I know it’s ridiculous, but in a way it’s a right of passage to take the train. Besides, who knows who you will meet on the train or what you will overhear.”

Hadrian looked up at him. “I guess you can look at it like that, and - what are they doing?” He couldn’t help but slide his eyes past his dad’s strong frame to the gaggle of redheads who were panting and standing by a wall. All were dressed in a myriad of things that Hadrian couldn’t even begin to describe. What he did know was that none of it matched and some had jumpers with a letter on it.

Augustus barely glanced over his shoulder. “It’s the path into Muggle King’s Cross Station. I don’t see a point in taking that route unless you’re a Muggleborn.” Hadrian didn’t either. His father didn’t look like he approved, but he didn’t say that to Hadrian.

“Bend down so I can kiss you on the cheek!” Hadrian playfully ordered, making the man chuckle and lean down. Hadrian kissed him on the cheek and patted the other side. “Going to miss your scratchy beard.”

“Want me to grow it out further so you can eat it again?” Augustus teased running his fingers through Hadrian’s loose hair. Hadrian blushed at the tease. He hadn’t tried to eat his dad’s beard in years!

“Maybe. Let me think about it and I’ll write you if Phoebe decides to come around.”

“You could have opted to get an owl, Hadrian.”

“I like Phoebe, though that gorgeous snow white owl has been in my dreams since I saw her,” admitted Hadrian. “Maybe if she’s still around next year I’ll pick her up. But I doubt it. Someone that beautiful won’t be there long.”

“You never know, animals can be as fickle as humans, precious. Looks like you’re being called.”

Hadrian looked over and cracked a smile that he couldn’t dim or hide in public when he saw everyone waiting for him.

“Come on, Hadrian!” Blaise beckoned for him. He was hanging onto the silver hand rail half out of the train on the bottom step. His braids fluttered in the light breeze, and Hadrian could see the beads were all white this time. Narcissa was huffing at Zenyatta for not chastising him for his inappropriate crass behavior.

“He’s got to do something to make Hadrian look over Marcus’ large handsome head, Narcissa. You can’t blame him,” she waved away the complaint with ease.

“Hurry up! Cassius has charmed our compartment big enough to hold us all!”

“Draco, do not shout across the platform,” Narcissa could be heard chiding.

Hadrian laughed and hugged his dad around the middle. “Love you, Dad.”

“I love you, kiddo.” He squeezed Hadrian tighter as if he didn’t want to let the boy go. “Don’t grow up too quickly at Hogwarts this year but do enjoy your time away with your friends. Just… do remember your manners and training even without Lady Malfoy there to correct you.”

“I’ll try.”

“That’s all I ask. Send us word as soon as you can on what house you end up in, even if you have to commandeer someone’s owl, and remember, Roddy and I won’t care which it is. We’re proud of you no matter what.”

Hadrian let go and ran toward everyone waiting, bypassing a couple of twin redheads with a short black boy. He thought he saw something hairy with legs in a box they were holding, but he couldn’t be sure nor did he care.

When he got to the doorway, Adrian shooed Draco, Theo, and Terry ahead down the corridor. There was no point in everyone crowding the doorway. Marcus hefted Hadrian’s trunk without any need for help, waving off Cassius when he reached a hand out to assist. In their haste that morning, Hadrian hadn’t even had it charmed to be lightweight. “Up you get,” he grunted.

“Thank you.”

Blaise seized his wrist drawing his attention away. “Come on!”

Hadrian laughed and almost stumbled up the stairs. Graham snatched his golden ticket to give to the conductor for him, urging him and Blaise down the aisle. The scarlet steam engine felt bigger inside than it did outside. Rows upon rows of compartments lined the corridor, some were open with students inside and others were closed. A gaggle of girls began to giggle as Blaise and Hadrian passed. Blaise’s beads swung and hit some of the silver metal handholds as the train let out a long drawn out whistle and steam could be seen pouring into the sky from the windows he passed by. Hadrian almost yelped in surprise when something hopped onto his foot. A ribbit barely caught his ears as he looked down only to blink when he saw something scamper away as if on a mission.

Seems someone lost a toad. Probably better off. He liked toads, particularly the giant purple horned toads that you could find in bogs and swamps. They were big and squishy and their tongues were funny. His dad had a near heart-attack once when they were walking along an old desolate lake beneath the train tracks only for Hadrian to spot some of them. He had let go of his dad’s hand and ran to the nearest toad with all the glee and carelessness of a small child. Apparently, their venom could be toxic, but it hadn’t hurt him one bit. He had wanted to take it home, but his dad vetoed it as they didn’t have room or the proper habitat for it.

Hadrian followed behind Blaise towards the compartment that Theo had been holding for them. Trunks lined the shelving above the seats already. Inside he could see that Terry and Draco had claimed the window seats and had already pulled out a chess set to play with. Theo was settled next to Draco with a new book open. Blaise pulled Hadrian to the corner seat left of the door and sat, pressing his back to the same wall as the door, before pulling Hadrian down between his legs.

Hadrian went with a laugh, Blaise loved sitting behind Hadrian. He snuggled back, allowing Blaise’s legs to enclose about his hips and arms wrap around under his arms as he rested his feet along the seat. Graham quickly sat, lifting Hadrian’s feet and placing them down on his lap. With a wiggle, Hadrian slumped further against Blaise and moved his legs so his feet dangled over the far side of Graham’s lap. He made sure to not hit Theo on Graham’s other side. No need to dirty the blonde’s robes with his shoes. Blaise pressed forward slightly and brushed some of his braids over his shoulder to fall down along Hadrian’s chest and be out of the way of his lean against the wall.

“Thanks, Cassius, for extending the compartment,” said Blaise with a cheerful note as Hadrian nodded in agreement. He would have hated to have the group split between compartments, not now when all of them were going to be Hogwarts together.

“Hm. I don’t feel that’s very thankful of you.” With a grumble, Cassius sat next to Adrian as Marcus put Hadrian’s trunk away. Marcus’ glare intensified. If Hadrian had looked back he’d have seen Blaise taunting him.

“All is fair,” Blaise purred.

“What are you talking about?” Hadrian asked, tilting his head back on Blaise’s shoulder to look up at the other.

“Just teasing them, precious,” said Blaise, running a hand down Hadrian’s cheek. The pre-teen leaned his head down and kissed Hadrian’s neck. It wasn’t the first time Blaise had done so and, like when they kissed on the lips, Hadrian could now feel little sparks of Blaise’s magic reach out to him at the action. “Just teasing them.”

“Just teasing them he says,” Cassius scoffed at Theo who snorted.

“Your fault you let it get to you. It’s not like he’s changed at all.”

Hadrian didn’t understand and why was it that Theo seemed to catch on? Draco looked at the grumpy Marcus. “What did you expect? They’re always like this. You haven’t even seen them really go at it either.” Draco too? What the hell?

“Shut up.” He crossed his arms and settled back. Graham, Terance, and Adrian snickered until they were outright laughing.

Hadrian looked from boy to boy unaware of Cassius’ glares and Marcus always glared or snarled so that wasn’t anything new. One of these days he was going to get it and he would let them know it too, very loudly.

A sudden lurch caused Hadrian to squeak as Graham’s hand flew up to Hadrian’s chest to push him back into Blaise. Hadrian latched onto Blaise’s arms around him as Blaise’s legs tightened around Hadrian in shock at the jarring movement. Soon a constant sound of shush, shush came from below them and a vibration started as the train began to move.

Glimpses of Muggle London flashed before Hadrian’s eyes before it was soon fading and disappearing as the train began to round a bend toward the trees, hills, and greenery that wasn’t easy to see for all the buildings and structures.

“You ever take the train from Hogsmeade, Hadrian?” Adrian asked.

“Only when I was really little, and I don’t really remember it,” said Hadrian. “Apparently I was very bad with side apparation.”

“A lot of young children are. In America it’s illegal to side apparate with anyone under five,” said Cassius. “It’s been reported a few children have lost their hearing over it and it had taken months even with a Healer for their hearing to return.”

“Oh - that reminds me,” said Hadrian. “Dad sent something for everyone. Can one of you get the smaller bag down please?”

Cassius was quickly on his feet and pulled a black leather bag that sat on top of Hadrian’s trunk. Hadrian cheered in thanks and opened it before pulling out a handful of leather bound books. Each of them had a name imprinted on them.

“I will start by apologizing for this. I made a comment when I got my letter and you know how my dad can be. He took that comment and ran with it.”

“What is it?” asked Graham as Hadrian passed each of the books out, including to Blaise who snatched it with curiosity.

“Homework?” Marcus grunted. “Really?”

“For Defense. Each year is a Chapter. So you can start on your year, but he does recommend looking at the previous years considering Hogwarts' negligent reputation.”

“I bet he had too much fun with this,” said Adrian, opening the book.

“Huh, I’ve never heard of some of these spells,” said Terry.

“Hey, when you think about it we’ll be taught by an Unspeakable,” said Theo as his eagerness and excitement mixed together. “Can’t go wrong with that!”

“That is true,” Graham agreed. “I don’t know some of these. I recognize a few of them from books in the Montague library, but not many. How many are in this book? I bet it’s better than most popular Defense books on the market right now.”

“Most are very Neutral and easily passable at Hogwarts. Some are on the fringes. You don’t have to take part, but the lessons and spells are there if you do.”

“Least he doesn’t require a two foot essay for homework,” Graham chortled. “Hey, it can’t hurt. I really wouldn’t want to go out like Brownstone did, can you believe that rubbish?” He shook his head.

“It was humiliating,” said Cassius, crossing his leg over his knee and settling back with the book on his knee.

Theo was highly interested in it and already abandoned his other book to go through the new one. Blaise sat his aside. “I’ll take a look later.”

“We could skip Defense entirely and have our own class. I heard some seventh year ‘Claws did it last year, and Professor Flitwick was fine with that and refused to entertain the idea of taking points or giving them detention for it,” said Terry.

“He thinks these Defense spells have multiple applications in which they can be used, they also go well with each other,” said Hadrian. “So they can be used in a chain.”

“We haven’t even gotten to chaining yet, and I doubt at this rate we will,” said Adrian with a scowl.

“Better than nothing,” said Marcus grunted.

“Better than Levioso,” Terry quipped as Hadrian sat the bag aside and snuggled back onto Blaise who grinned as he pressed his cheek to Hadrian’s.

Hadrian could see trees rushing by as the steam engine chugged at a good clip. All the boys got into conversation about Quidditch, and who was or wasn’t fit to be leading the team now that Hackett was gone. Hadrian barely remembered Adrian mentioning Hackett was one of the team’s Beaters.

“I don’t recognize the family name,” said Hadrian.

“He was an old Pureblood, his Grandmother ruined his line when she ran away with a Muggle,” Marcus said darkly.

Most of the Slytherins’ stances on Halfbloods were pretty neutral. They’d been taught that sometimes they needed the new blood to connect with Pureblood to avoid too much inbreeding. So long as both parents of the Halfblood were actually witches and wizards in their own right and their alignment didn’t shift too much. His dad had told him that the fresh supply of magical blood in Halfbloods could open up new avenues and magics that were long since suppressed by the unfortunate inbreeding in some of the older lines. The trick with Halfbloods was to make sure there wasn’t Muggle influence in their upbringing.

It also meant that many Purebloods had no issue with Pureblood families who married and had children with humanoid magical creatures. Magical creature blood often added unique magical skills to Pureblood families. It was often whispered amongst the Sacred Twenty-Eight that the Black’s metamorphmagus abilities came from marrying a magical species often enough to keep the ability alive within the family line. Everyone who attended the tournament in France knew that the Delacours had Light Veela blood with the charm that one witch used during her match.

Hadrian had also heard that the reason Callum Warrington had gone out of the country to find a partner was worry over inbreeding too much. Even Oberon Montague married another Italian witch instead of someone from Great Britain despite having moved here as a teen. There was a rather limited number of Pureblood families so they had to carefully manage how closely and often they tied themselves to other families. Family affiliations made things even more difficult. Narcissa had deep fertility issues because the Blacks were some of the most inbred Pureblood families of everyone since the Gaunts and Bulstrodes, but the Gaunt line was dead in the water due to insanity and a production of Squibs.

It was a balancing act of how much to preserve and how much to allow. A decision like blood and who came into that blood was never taken lightly.

“What’s with the empty parchment at the end of the book?” Theo asked Hadrian, breaking him from his thoughts. He’d been thumbing through the book and Hadrian had noted he was making a mark on some of the pages.

“If you have a question. You can send the question to him. They’re all connected to a master book he kept.”

“Great!” said Theo. “I have a lot of questions already.”

“He likes questions.”

“Did your father warn you about the Slytherin Head of House, Hadrian?” Adrian asked him.

Hadrian shook his head. “No. You know he doesn’t like to influence me too much.”

“He’s one to stay weary of, no one knows his real allegiance. They say he’s a Halfblood Dark wizard who denies his alignment. Some also say he is staunchly on the Light.”

Draco turned away at Adrian’s information. The briefest look of pain had flashed on his face. “Just goes to show that wizards like that can’t be trusted,” he spat. “Just best to stick with our own kind.”

“Not every Halfblood is like that,” said Cassius. “But yes, it does pay to be cautious. I mean, you have Purebloods like that too. Look at the Weasleys.”

“I can’t figure them out,” Marcus shook his head.

Terry agreed. “I want to like them from time to time because the twins are fuckin’ funny, but then they do that weird thing - I can’t explain it but it throws it all out the fuckin’ window.”

“Probably the parents influence, they didn’t choose to be traitors after all, the parents and their parents did,” Hadrian pointed out.

“Good way of looking at it,” Cassius agreed.

“My father hates the Weasley father,” Draco wrinkled his nose. “All of them are dirty and full of themselves. So Light, he said, that moonbeams would shine out of their arses if only they could afford it.”

“He’s always sniffing around trying to get our families in trouble,” Theo agreed.

“Twins aren’t like that,” Cassius offered.

“That bitch boy, Percy Weasley, is though. The next time he tries to tell me what to do I’m going to hex his nose to the ground,” said Marcus pulling out a Quidditch magazine.

Hadrian snuggled further down and shifted a bit onto his side in Blaise’s arms until he was laying with his head against the boy’s stomach. He wound an arm around Blaise’s thigh. He didn’t notice Cassius and Marcus watching him as Graham situated himself and kept Hadrian’s legs over him without hitting Theo. He was still small enough to fit in all sorts of places, after all.

The hum of the train and the voices of his friends lulled him. He wasn’t quite asleep, but his eyes were closed as Blaise threaded fingers through his hair. “Some of your hair is starting to have a little wave,” he commented.

“I should probably have it tidied at some point before leaving for school,” he sighed contentedly.

“Nah, I think it’s perfect. Grow it long enough and I might start adding beads to it.”

“Doubt I would look good with braids like yours.”

“Not a head full of braids, but one or two wouldn’t be too bad.”

On a busy train such as this one, interruptions were bound to be a common occurrence, but Hadrian did not appreciate the sudden bang of the door as it slid itself open.

“Has anyone seen a toad? A boy named Neville has lost one.”

Hadrian cracked his eye at the familiar voice that he would unfortunately never forget. Every one of them looked at the curly brunette. Some had incredulous expressions. Draco was wrinkling his nose at her hair and Theo brought his book up further over his eyes.

“Get out.” Marcus rumbled, simply.

“Oh - it's you! The boy from the bookshop.”

“Hello, Miss Granger,” said Hadrian neutrally.

“Is she the dentist?” Theo asked behind his book.

“Mhmm.”

She didn’t seem to get it as Blaise started snickering, drawing her attention again. “Erm - why are you laying on another boy? That’s really weird, you know! Boys don’t do that with other boys! That’s so inappropriate!”

Hadrian looked at her flatly and didn’t bother to answer her as he snuggled further against Blaise. He felt Blaise curl over him, one hand running down along his spine, as if to shield him from the girl’s words.

“Ew, Muggleborn. No one cares about your damn toad!” Draco sneered.

“How rude of you! I was only making conversation.”

“No conversation we want to entertain. I suggest you leave the compartment and go back to where you belong,” said Cassius coolly. No southern drawl or good nature showing as his face darkened. “You are unwanted here if you have not figured it out.”

“She has to be a Gryffindor if she’s this thick and brazen enough to come into our compartment,” Graham adjusted his glasses and observed her. “Why do you think you have the right to tell us what we can and cannot do?”

“I- I was just making a point. Boys don’t get so close to other boys. You just don’t do that. It’s wrong!” the girl said, her voice going up higher and slightly panicking causing Blaise to cringe slightly against Hadrian.

“Says you, this isn’t the fuckin’ Muggle world, girl,” Marcus barked.

“Your swearing is deplorable,” she sniffed boldly at him. “Have you not been taught better than to use that kind of language around women? You should apologize to me for being so rude.”

Draco jumped to his feet. Anger flushing over his pale face. “No, you are the rude one. How dare you believe you have the audacity to come into our compartment, and into our world no less, spewing your Muggle diatribe. Get OUT!” He shoved her with his hand and slammed the door harder as she let out a cry of surprise by the force in which he pushed her.

Cassius whistled. “Wow, Draco. I am impressed.”

Draco sneered, adjusted his robes, wiped his hand on the wall and sank back down in his seat. “I’m tired of them always crawling around like little insects or rats! Muggleborns, Halfbloods… and traitors the lot of them!”

“Talk about unpleasant,” said Blaise.

“I would have paid galleons to see the reactions of the goblins when she approached them with her waffle,” Hadrian snickered into Blaise’s thigh, causing everyone else to laugh at the idea.

“I’m surprised she wasn’t ground up into goblin food if she acted like that with them,” Graham cackled.

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen hair that bad,” Blaise commented. “Surely Muggles have a way to deal with frizzy hair.”

“You haven’t seen my dad when he wakes up after drinking too much,” Hadrian giggled. “I’ve tried to get pictures before but he always finds them and burns them,” he pouted at this.

It wasn’t until a little while later, after Draco had beaten Terry 2-1 in chess and moved on to playing against Adrian, that a knock caught their attention again. This time it was an old lady pushing a trolley full to bursting with sweets and drinks. Draco was on his feet so fast and all the anger he’d had toward the Muggleborn invasion vanished.

A little bit of everything was bought by all of them. Cassius taunted Blaise by holding the orange fairy nougat packet in the air, making Blaise try and snatch them only for them to be moved further away. Hadrian wasn’t a fan of orange, but he did like how the chocolates seemed to glow and float. He preferred the strawberry nougat. They were called Dancing Fairies, they didn’t really dance but it was a cute name nonetheless.

“Come on, Cassius!”

“Come get it.”

“I’m too comfortable and can’t disturb Hadrian. I’ll tell Hadrian.”

“He’s already listening.”

“Don’t involve me,” Hadrian said shifting over onto his back as Marcus handed him some sparkling melon water, a couple of chocolate frogs, ice mice, and sorbet balls. Hadrian saved the ice mice for later. He liked eating them after a meal as it left a fresh minty taste in his mouth.

“Come on, Hadrian, you don’t want him to force your favorite piece of sexy furniture to move now do you?”

“It would be disappointing, but there’s a lot of sexy furniture around here these days.”

“Blasphemy. I’m the best.” Blaise scoffed as everyone laughed. Blaise continued to try and snag them, and finally Cassius gave in, dropped the sweets, and flopped gracefully back down with his own Pepper Imps. Yuck. He might be cute, but sometimes his flavor profile made Hadrian shudder.

“How much longer?” Theo asked, snatching the chocolate frog when it hopped onto Draco’s shoulder. He plucked off the leg as it wriggled, and wrinkled his nose as he flicked the card to the floor.

Hadrian snatched it, curious on who it was, and saw the name of the Headmaster though he was not in the portrait. He looked on the back, intrigued. He did not know much about the Headmaster. His father had been oddly tight lipped about the man though from the way Lucius sounded at times, Hadrian was going to go out on a limb and say that he was not a fan. Hadrian tucked it away. He didn’t have a Dumbledore card in his collection at home.

“A couple more hours,” said Adrian, throwing a Bertie Bott bean into the air and catching it in his mouth. He made a face of disgust and then dived for another one. “We won’t arrive until after dark.”

“I’m surprised your suitors have not graced us with their ethereal presence,” Blaise teased, causing Draco and Theo’s enjoyment of sweets to take a nosedive.

“Take that back you bloody bastard.”

“Make me,” Blaise grinned, and Hadrian would later accuse the boy of having seer qualities in him because at that moment the door vibrated open again while a familiar shrill filled the compartment.

“Draco!”

Blaise had to drop his face into Hadrian’s hair as he started laughing. No one else was nice about it either as they all erupted at the same time.

“There you are, Theo. I was hoping to talk to you.”

Hadrian had only ever seen the Bulstrode family a handful of times. They were an odd family and Hadrian couldn’t quite pinpoint why that was yet. Every time he’d asked, the subject would get changed. He knew they were heavily connected to the Crabbe and Goyle families, two boys from the families were standing somberly behind the two girls like they were bodyguards or something. All he knew was that they were odd and poor. Poor Theo if that contract was able to stick because Pansy Parkinson would be a reward compared to the sour faced Millicent Bulstrode.

Bulstrode’s hair was a stringy unkempt shade of ash gray with sections of brown. Hadrian wondered if Blaise would find her hair worse than Granger’s or better. It lay lank against shoulders that were so broad that in a few years she’d rival Marcus’ broadness. She was square-ish everywhere from her body shape to her facial features. One side of her square mouth even looked a bit lower than the other. Theo had called her a hag and a troll at one point, and the description was a bit apt.

Both girls were already wearing their school robes, and that reminded Hadrian that he would need to change into his own. It’d been ridiculously warm this morning and he was still wearing his light summery linen robes. They all were.

“I do not have to talk to you,” said Theo, bringing his book back up to his eyes. “We have nothing to discuss.”

“You’re not going to have a choice in a few years,” she said haughtily as Pansy entered the compartment.

“Draco!” Pansy tried to wiggle herself between him and Theo but he shifted closer to the smaller boy.

“Get off, Pansy. We haven’t room for you.”

“You can make room. You already have for all of you. Please, Cass. Can’t you expand it more? I know it had to have been you, my mother says you have the same transfiguration skills as your father.”

“Do not call me Cass. It has and will always be Warrington to you, Parkinson,” Cassius’ snap was so sharp that it felt like a whip had lashed through the room. His face lost all the amusement that Blaise had brought them with his accidental prediction, and the temperature seemed to drop drastically.

He had the same ability that his mother had. Callum was a puppy compared to the sweet Susanna. She could change the air with a single word or a glance of her pretty eyes, and it seemed that Cassius was developing that ability. Hadrian had never heard him be so cold or sharp. Never once had he ever raised his voice to Hadrian or spoke coldly in his presence. He’d heard rumors from Draco that Cassius had a bite and Blaise had confirmed it, but Hadrian hadn’t believed it.

Until now.

Pansy’s face fell. “Why does he get to call you that then?” she whined, finger pointing at Hadrian.

“He’s the only one who can call me that. You are as unwelcome here as the Muggleborn earlier. Get out.” Hadrian could feel every word in his bones. A sharp order that nearly made all of them want to comply with.

“You wouldn’t compare us to a Muggleborn would you?” Bulstrode gasped.

“I’d say she was above you at this point,” Terry replied, causing both of the girls to look at him in horror.

“You can’t mean that!” Pansy was holding her chest.

“I could at least make her pretty. Just fix that hair,” Blaise added insult to injury. “Maybe give her a lesson in manners. I bet she’d learn faster than these two who were supposedly raised with Pureblood manners, but obviously not.”

“Ouch, Blaise. Would you really waste your time like that?” Adrian asked with a sly grin. As if he knew what Blaise was going to say next.

“Sure, why not. Even a Muggleborn deserves to be better than this.”

“Pretty sad when we’d prefer a Muggleborns presence over the likes of either of you. Leave Theo and Draco alone,” Graham insisted. “They are not required to talk to you. Nothing has been decided yet.”

“As their friends we wouldn’t let it,” said Adrian. “Now go before Cassius decides to turn you all into toads and throw you out the window. Really show his transfiguration skills.”

“Oi… no throwing toads anywhere,” Hadrian chided sucking at his sorbet ball and rising an inch off Blaise and Graham as he did. “Leave the toads alone, they are cute.”

The four of them scurried out the door. “I’m going to tell your mother, Draco!” Pansy huffed. “She’ll fix you right and maybe forbid you from having anything to do with these uncouth boys! Especially that one!” She sneered toward Hadrian before slamming the door shut only to cause Bulstrode to yelp in pain when her fingers got caught up in the doorway.

Everyone burst out laughing, Hadrian almost choked on his sorbet ball in the process.

“Right, as if my Mother would be that stupid.” Draco shook his head. “She loves Hadrian almost as much as she loves me. She is his godmother after all.”

“Who doesn’t?” Cassius fell back against the seat to relax.

Hadrian’s cheeks pinked. His insides were all warm and gooey. “We have to get our school robes on and I need to stop by the lavatory.” He had a handful of boys wanting to go with him, escort him and make sure he wasn’t harassed. As much as Hadrian adored these fellas he declined because every boy needed a second to breathe alone every now and then. Draco and Theo were too into their sweets and said they would wait to change until they were closer. They also wanted to be well clear of their ‘suitors’ but the aisle was relatively empty.

Hadrian realized he should have asked about the lavatories when he got a little lost. A tall and redheaded, lots of freckles unlike Adrian, Gryffindor Prefect saw him and pointed him further down the train, at least he had been going in the right direction. The Prefect’s hair was a lighter shade of red than Adrian’s, more ginger than auburn. Pureblooded at least or he did a good job of copying the mannerisms. Hadrian could tell by the way he carried himself.

He reached the end of the aisle, noting another red haired boy sitting in a half open compartment with a black boy and an Irish kid. The kid’s thick and heavy Irish accent could be heard from the hallway.

Finally, Hadrian reached the lavatory and went to slide open the door when it opened for him. His eyes went up and connected with soft, kind blue eyes. The teen was pretty tall, as everyone seemed to be, and had good posture. The teen was robed in a warm yellow robe with gold stitching. The robe was clasped closed so Hadrian couldn’t tell what the inner lining color was, but he could see a gold H insignia on the breast of the robe with a brown badger along the right side. The image curled around from the back, pointing its nose toward the boy’s shoulder.

The blue eyed teen had a cute round face that would probably set a lot of girls giggling. “Hi there, lavatory?”

“Yes, please.”

“Quite cramped for so many students. We’ve asked and asked if more room could be made, but that doesn’t seem to be a top priority for the school.” Hadrian stepped back for him as he swept out. “I’m Cedric by the way, Cedric Diggory.” He held out his hand and Hadrian automatically took it.

“Nice to meet you, Diggory.” He was very warm. Hadrian could feel the Light magic playing on his palm but this at least didn’t make him want to recoil, not like the rune in the alley had. “I’m Hadrian Rookwood, Heir Rookwood.”

“Nice to meet you. Please call me ‘Cedric’. Your father is an Unspeakable, right?” Cedric asked, eyes twinkling. “My father works with yours sometimes. He’s an officer in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.”

“Ah, yes. I’ve heard him mention the name a few times. He tends to work with all departments so all the names can run together.”

“Understandable. Being an Unspeakable is a hard job, but I hear it’s rewarding. Though no one knows what they all get up to. I do know you have to have some of the highest grades from exams and natural skill to even be considered.”

“Yes, my dad is every bit of a Ravenclaw.”

Cedric laughed. “Well, good luck in the sorting this evening.”

“Thank you, Cedric.” Hadrian couldn’t help but watch him walk away. He had the badger in silhouette on the back of the robe with much greater detail. Goodness, he was cute. Of course, being a Light wizard Hadrian wouldn’t entertain getting too close, but there was nothing wrong with being friendly. Least he was all warm without the cotton and rotten fruit taste that Light aligned can sometimes give off.

His robes seemed kind of droll and plain compared to Cedric Diggory’s since it was all black with no character whatsoever. The school uniform he was required to wear under the robes didn’t sit as well as he had hoped they would either. He hadn’t lost any weight since his meeting with Madam Malkin so why were they so loose? Hadrian felt like he needed a belt or something around the trousers to keep them up. He had way too much room in the trouser legs.

He frowned and bent down to try and sort them out. He knew Madam Malkin didn’t get it wrong. So what on earth? At least the fabric of the robes was top of the line black silk with the white button down being thin soft muslin. But there was too much space, why weren’t they fitted properly?

Is this what everyone was complaining about when they said the uniform got more Muggle over the years? He felt like his clothes were going to fall off him. He wondered if he could talk Graham into fixing it to be more fitted if he knew the spells. Graham’s mother was a dab hand in tailoring and sewing. Or he’d have to find a moment to mail his things to Gladrags for re-tailoring. Gladrags had his measurements on file.

Grumpily, Hadrian finished dressing and brushed out his hair once more so that it didn’t wind up like Grangers and then headed back to the compartment where most had changed into their clothes except Draco and Theo.

“I do not like the fit of these,” said Blaise, picking at his black trousers under his black robe.

“Me either. I feel like my clothes are falling off. Never had so much space on the shoulders before or the legs.” Hadrian shook his arms as if showing how loose everything was.

“We had ours altered at Gladrags,” said Cassius who was sitting in Blaise’s old seat. He held open his arms and that familiar bloom of heat spread through Hadrian in a rush. Hadrian could not refuse so he took a seat on Cassius and saw that Marcus had taken Graham’s old spot. “Gladrags is happy to do it over owl order.”

Those who had put on their uniforms did look nice. Their shirts and trousers at least were fitted and the school robes had color. While the inside lining was still black, the outer lining was a lovely dark green. The stitching on the robe was silver and there was a silver ‘S’ on the front. There was thicker silver stitching along the arms, hood, and where it clasped closed in the front. Hadrian couldn’t see a nod to the house animal like Diggory’s robes had and wondered if Slytherin didn’t do that or if it was only along the back.

Cassius wrapped himself around Hadrian as he sat and pushed his nose into the back of his hair. Blaise was smirking at him but Cassius didn’t care to notice.

“Apparently, I was voted out,” said Blaise. “Brushed to the side like yesterday’s pet.”

“Don’t be greedy,” Marcus grunted. “Or dramatic.”

“Do you still have the envelope, sweetheart?” Cassius asked softly as he slid his chin to Hadrian’s shoulder and pressed a kiss to Hadrian’s neck.

“I do.” He had remembered to take the envelope out of his trunk and placed it in the breast pocket of his uniform when he changed. He still wondered what was in it. He knew it was more than a note from the weight of it, but he had tempered his own curiosity.

“Good. Do not forget, only open after you’re sorted.” Cassius pressed another kiss to his neck before turning and joining a conversation with Adrian and Marcus.

Sorting. Hadrian had wanted to forget about it, but now the pressing matter came back full circle.

Where was Hadrian going to go?

Chapter Text

Chapter Eight

“We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.”

― Kurt Vonnegut, Mother Night

Hadrian was highly disappointed when the older boys departed from the train first leaving him, Draco, Blaise, and Theo all sitting a bit tenser than usual and just staring at one another. First years had been directed to wait on the train while older students departed. As the older boys left the compartment he was able to observe the elegant black serpent that graced their backs. It was really quite handsome.

Blaise was still picking at his robes and trying to perfect his hair. He was untangling some braids from each other and fussing with how they laid, as if it needed to be anymore perfect. “I’ll change my beads later so they will reflect with my house.”

“You should go ahead and change them to green and silver now,” said Draco.

“You never know. I could go anywhere. Nothing is set in stone after all.”

“Yeah,” Hadrian agreed. He was now by the window and looking out into the dark misty familiar moor as the train started moving again, this time it was slower.

“Father said we go by boats. All first years do,” said Draco airily.

“I suppose most people would be in awe of the sight,” Hadrian said logically. He’d been seeing Hogwarts even through fog for a long time now. Some of the awe and mystique was bound to be lost on him.

Hadrian couldn’t help but feel a bit somber when all the doors opened again and they all stepped out onto a platform that was closer to the Black Lake. Most of Hogwarts was shrouded by darkness, mist, and the trees. Scared and unsure students wandered out, eyes moving all over the place when a loud booming voice nearly rocked Hadrian into Theo.

“Firs’ years! Firs’ years! This way!”

A large towering bushy faced man was holding a lantern. His eyes and skin barely peaked out from the volume of his beard. He was big and round, and the lantern looked tiny in his clenched hand.

“That’s Hagrid,” said a boy’s voice behind Hadrian. “He’s a pretty wicked bloke. Don’t be too scared of him, Hannah.”

“Are you sure, Justin?”

“Sure. He came to our house. My parents thought he was a riot when he broke the stool but then he tapped it with his umbrella and fixed it. For some reason he asked me not to tell anyone he did it. I guess it was embarrassing for him.”

“I can’t find Trevor!”

“It’s okay, Neville, we’ll find him again I’m sure,” soothed Granger.

Huh, so the Muggleborn could talk softly. Nice to know.

‘Hagrid’ led all the students toward a dock down a slope between an opening of trees. A handful of small boats were waiting for them at the end of the dock. “Names Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts. Alright everyone, three or four to a boat. In yah go!” He nudged the child closest to him who happened to be part of a set of twin girls with thick black hair. Hadrian couldn’t tell much more than that as they were huddling in their black robes facing away from him.

Naturally, Hadrian, Blaise, Draco, and Theo claimed a boat to themselves. Draco was frowning. “I don’t like this,” he said nervously. “Feels worn down and rickety.”

Hadrian was more focused on the glass blackness of the smooth lake. The full moon was in full view, providing enough light to see steam and mist rising from the waters. It’d been humid and hot that morning when they left Feldcroft but now that it was dark the coolness was settling in. His father had explained the whole chemical process to him, but Hadrian had forgotten it.

“Oi, I have a toad here! Someone missing their toad?”

“Trevor!” shouted the Longbottom Heir as Draco sneered quietly when the round faced boy stood up.

“I’ll keep him until we dock,” Hagrid told him and the boy bobbed his head. “Now, sit down all yeh! No need to fall in, don’t want the squid to getcha.” He chortled to himself, making Draco’s face turn to terror.

“The squid is friendly, Draco. You’re safe,” Hadrian assured.

“You sure, Hadrian?” He asked, knitting his brows.

“Yes. The squid has shown up near Feldcroft before. It’s very domesticated.”

Draco only relaxed when Hadrian moved to sit beside him instead of with Blaise. Blaise easily shifted to sit with Theo and soon the boats were moving, rowing themselves across the glassy lake. The ride was smooth and quite nice, despite the state of the boats themselves.

A few times they had to duck for some of the trees and limbs that branched over the lake. He could hear a boy screech behind him. “Scabbers, stay put will you? Ack! Ouch!”

Hadrian glanced over his shoulder to a boat to the right of them to see that red headed freckle-faced boy from the train holding something in his hand to his chest. His robes looked very messy and old in the dim moonlight. The same black boy and Irish kid from the train were sitting beside him. The black boy was pulling leaves out of his short hair.

“Should have ducked.”

Hadrian turned back around and focused on the new view. Even though Hadrian had seen Hogwarts millions of times, he was still impressed. It was simply that gorgeous and he could feel magic wash over him. He had felt it slightly on the platforms, but it had steadily gotten stronger as they traveled by boat closer and closer to the castle. It was like wrapping the warmest blanket around his cold naked body. It filled him up with something that caused him to shiver as some of the fog seemed to shift and move showing all the tiny pinpoint yellow lights from the distant windows. The castle was so tall it looked like the top most turret was touching the sky.

Everything had gone silent except for the soft oohs and ahhs from some students. Those must have been Muggleborns or Muggle raised. Hogwarts was impressive looking, but those who grew up in magical communities knew there were other, more glorious buildings scattered around. Hadrian shivered and couldn’t help but throw his hair back as he leaned forward a bit. His eyes felt a bit heavy from such strong magic. It was like what he’d seen in Diagon Alley after whatever he’d done to the rune, just without the visual. Like a kiss of magic against his skin beneath his robes.

“Do you feel that?” Hadrian asked.

“I’m cold,” Draco grumbled.

“Feel what?” Theo asked.

“Magic.” Hadrian breathed out.

Blaise looked around and reached out a dark hand to the air. “Not as strongly as you it seems, but yes I feel it. It’s warm.”

“I don’t feel anything,” Theo admitted. “I wish I could.”

“Just an old castle on a rock,” Draco said dismissively. “All of our manors and grounds are more impressive looking than this at night. So what - it has lots of rooms with candles in them. It’s a waste of wax with no one anywhere but the Great Hall tonight.”

“It’s way more than that Draco,” breathed Hadrian softly as he looked up at Hogwarts. It was the very essence that made wizards and witches who they were and sadly, like Draco and Theo, most seemed to not have any access to it any longer.

He felt sorrow for them. He even felt sorrow for Muggles and Muggleborns in that moment because he knew they would never feel it. They would not know what it was like to be wrapped in the comfort of magic.

Hadrian was in a haze through the rest of the ride and moved in a daze, as if he were newly undead, when they made their way up the stone steps up the bedrock toward the castle. Seeing the castle from this angle made it seem even bigger. It was almost intimidating.

Someone was huffing and puffing behind them. Hadrian looked to see the Longbottom Heir looked like he was about to choke. His face was red and the Muggleborn girl was holding her side like she had a stitch.

“Ow my ankles…” said another boy.

These people wanted to get access to places like High Street? They couldn’t handle climbing a few staircases to a castle. What were they going to do if they had to transverse from one end of the castle to the other to get to class?

“That’s why broom riding is not adequate enough exercise,” Blaise hissed into Hadrian’s ear.

“Agreed.”

“I can teach you better exercises, ones that will make others jealous.” Blaise purred, one hand trailing down Hadrian’s back.

“I’m sure you could and as fun as it may be, I don’t need it.” Hadrian lightly elbowed him in the side.

“True,” Blaise straightened his robes, “we both look amazing without it.”

It didn’t take long before they were all met by a formidable looking witch who introduced herself as Professor McGonagall. She was as stern as she was straight backed, like any self-respecting Pureblood. Her lips and spectacles were thin as she looked out at everyone, glasses glinting in the orange yellow torchlight.

“Welcome to Hogwarts. Please follow me and no talking.” Her voice was clipped and stern. You listened to her or else, Hadrian thought in amusement.

She led them into the building through a small corridor that opened to an impressive Entrance Hall. Flagstone flooring greeted them and the doors before them were so wide they could fit about ten to fifteen Hadrian’s standing side by side. Everything seemed oversized, the Hogwarts insignia was emblazoned on a curved half-wall that had two curving staircases attached on each side. There were tapestries in all of the house colors and suits of armor that gleamed silver scattered about the hall. He passed by one that grunted and another hissing to a humming partner.

There was so much to see and not enough eyes to see them. Professor McGonagall took them up one set of stairs and to an antechamber door next to a set of heavy double doors. The antechamber door opened automatically and she waited as everyone shuffled through.

She gave them all a speech about the four houses and what would be expected of them before they could eat dinner. It was already nearly eight o’clock and Hadrian hoped that things didn’t take too long so that they could all eat before it got too late. Hadrian also couldn’t help but drop his eyes to his feet again. No amount of lovely magic in the world could let him escape his anxiety about the whole sorting process. He barely heard her words because his mind ran a gamut of circles.

He didn’t even notice when she left until Blaise nudged him. “You okay, precious?”

“Hm? Yes.”

“Liar. Cassius is right. You are a terrible liar.”

“Shut up,” Hadrian sulked and crossed his arms as he leaned against the wall. He knew that he should be setting an example and not lean back like this, but a glance around showed that only Purebloods were near him and none but his friends were paying attention.

He could hear talk about the sorting and some of the students murmuring about what it would entail. He could hear the redhead boy talking about a troll. Bloody hell, what?

Draco sneered, no doubt taking in the frayed robes and the mustard colored socks that were exposed due to how short the trousers were.

“Don’t, Draco. Let’s keep to our manners for a little while at least,” Hadrian murmured softly.

Draco looked at him. “But…”

“Not yet. Let’s not make an enemy of other people so soon. At least until we know them.” If Hadrian was going to be stuck with some of these people he’d at least like some diplomacy.

“Fine.” Draco grumbled. “But it’s obvious who he is.”

He could hear a boy talking about Ravenclaw. “My whole family has been in Ravenclaw. So I’m expected to be too,” he’d said proudly.

“Does family really matter to the sorting, Terry?” Terry? Well that would become confusing if Hadrian ended up in the same house as him. He didn’t want to stop calling Terence ‘Terry’, but that was an issue for future him. It may not even be an actual problem.

“It must. My mum and dad were in Ravenclaw house and my grandparents.”

“It has to. My whole family has been Gryffindor,” said the redhead. “I don’t suppose it’ll change any either. I’ll be a Gryffindor and my sister too when she comes next year.”

Draco snorted quietly. “See? Obviously a Weasley.”

“You should be proud to be in Gryffindor,” said that annoying Muggleborn.

“You don’t have brothers and a sister like I do, Granger, or you wouldn’t be saying that, especially Fred and George…” He made a violent shudder. “Twins are the worst!”

Hadrian saw one of the twin girls from earlier glare over at him. She must have overheard his comment.

“Is it true that they smuggled a tarantula onto the train?” squeaked a nearby girl that Hadrian couldn’t see because everyone else was too bloody tall. He’d get a growth spurt soon - he hoped at least.

“Ulgh, don’t remind me, bloody gits.”

“Come on, precious, keep leaning like that and you’ll wrinkle the robes. At least get any wrinkles out before the sorting.” Hadrian allowed Blaise to pull him from the wall and let Draco fuss over the robes, like Narcissa does.

Before any more gossip and murmurs could spread through the room, Professor McGonagall returned and cleared her throat. “I see most of you have not taken my advice to smarten yourselves up. Well, nothing more we can do about that now. Let’s go.” She clapped her hands sharply in a way that Narcissa would when she was ordering the house-elves about and led the way out of the antechamber. “Make two rows, please.”

Hadrian quickly moved to stand with Blaise, Draco and Theo ahead of them, as they all fell into order and made their way out towards the massive double doors. The doors blew open revealing the Great Hall for the first time.

Four large and wide tables ran the length of the hall with lines of tapestries hung over them depicting the Hogwarts houses. Gryffindor on the far right then Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and finally Slytherin at the furthest left. The aisle down the middle was open for them and it stretched all the way up the room to a platform that had a three legged stool with an ugly ratty hat sitting on top of it. Behind that stool a bit further back near the wall was the last table, perpendicular to the other four. With all of the adults sitting at it it could only be the faculty table.

Hadrian spared a quick glance over the school staff. None of them were familiar faces and his eyes briefly drawn to the one in the middle. The wizard sitting in the middle was impressive, Hadrian thought and he knew that this was Headmaster Dumbledore. He looked friendly. His beard was snow white and so long that it disappeared under the edge of the tabletop. It was as white as his hair on the top of his head was. He wore a pair of half mooned spectacles and a wonky hat on his head, like what Hadrian heard Muggles expected wizards to wear. It was blue and covered in silver stars and moons like his robes. He had so many wrinkles that he could have made a roadmap out of them if he wanted to.

Next to him was an empty seat. Probably for Professor McGonagall, since she was Deputy Headmistress. On the opposite side however was a man with coal black hair to his shoulders. It looked greasy. His face was sullen, gaunt, and white. He wore all black which only inhanced his paleness. He was blank faced. Cold. From the descriptions he had received over the years this could be the Potions Professor and Head of Slytherin, Severus Snape. Draco’s estranged godfather. The greasy hair would make sense too. Standing over potions all day everyday would do that. Merlin knows Draco’s complained about the state of his hair after brewing potions often enough.

A smaller man was sitting beside him. He looked to be part goblin and part human. It was an odd combination, but Hadrian wasn’t one to judge. He looked cheerful though as he sat on a stack of books. He had glasses perched on his nose and looked keenly interested in the students. On the opposite side, where the empty chair was, sat a humble and homely looking witch. She wore soft brown shades with a bit of yellow not too dissimilar to the Hufflepuff house color. Hadrian wondered if she was Head of Hufflepuff, had been sorted there previously, or just liked the colors. Her hat was also yellow with a honking daffodil. Pure silver gray curls ringed her face like a halo. He hoped the daffodil didn’t honk at random times as that could be distracting. More teachers filled each end of the table. Hadrian saw Hagrid make his way to the end of the table and sit his great big self down, nearly upsetting the poised lady beside him.

He didn’t dare to look around at all the students. He mostly didn’t want to see the Slytherins. All that anxiety came pouring back as they came to a stop in front of the stool and hat. Professor McGonagall pulled a long roll of parchment out of her robes and moved to stand beside it.

“Take it away, hat.”

To Hadrian and many other first years' disbelief, the hat’s folds shifted and created a mouth. It then began to sing, and someone behind them on the right side had joined in. Not very good though. He noted that the redhead boy was scowling and muttering. “Stupid Fred and George… always showing off.”

Hadrian busied himself with looking up at the ceiling, past the floating candles. It’d been charmed to look like the sky outside. It was absolutely beautiful with a few clouds drifting along, hiding the twinkling stars as they drifted.

“-So try me on and I’ll tell you where you belong…” It went quiet and applause broke out.

Hadrian didn’t bother. He was too nervous to be polite right now.

“Now, when I call your name you will come up to the stool, sit the sorting hat upon your heads, and be sorted. Once sorted you will go and join your classmates at the end of each table with the banner depicting your new house… Abbott, Hannah!” It began with a pigtailed blonde haired girl who nervously made her way to the stool. She was round cheeked and looked very terrified.

She had to be related to the Abbotts that owned the Golden Peacock, Hadrian thought. If not directly then at least a cousin because he could see the fine quality of her robes, particularly the bottom hem. He should have thought of that, having fur or velvet lining the bottoms. He would next year.

Hufflepuff was the first house called. Then a Bones witch was called up and also went to Hufflepuff. Next was Boot, Terry. Just like the kid had said, he ended up in Ravenclaw. A witch named Brown went to Gryffindor, the first for the night which sent the table into a canopy of noise. Bulstrode was called next and sent straight to Slytherin with barely a touch of fabric to her head.

Just after each name was called and the student sorted, their boring black robes changed. The change started from the bottom of the robes as the student left the stool, color leaching up the fabric until they reached the relevant table. They looked much better than before. It was rather fun to watch as red, yellow, green, and blue and gray crept up the black robes until the outer lining was black free and the Houses’ animal representative appeared on the back of them. Like the brown Hufflepuff badger that curved around the side of the robe, Gryffindor’s dark red griffin also seemed to curve around the side. On the other hand, Ravenclaw’s dark blue eagle was like Slytherin’s black snake and stayed directly in the middle of the back of the robes. Hadrian thought it was interesting that Ravenclaw robes were split blue and gray instead of one color like the other Houses’ robes, with rose gold stitching and rusty red inner lining. Gryffindor’s stitching was gold, to no surprise, but they had black inner lining like the Slytherins. Hufflepuffs, like Ravenclaw, had a different color for the inner lining, but it wasn’t red, it was a forest green.

A boy named Finch-Fletchley went to Hufflepuff and it turned out the Irish kid was named Seamus Finnegan. He was sent to Gryffindor, and when the Muggleborn, Hermione Granger, was called everything slowed down because the hat seemed to take a bit longer to decide for her.

Interesting.

Finally, after about three minutes of the girl sitting on the stool nervously with the hat over her eyes it cried out. “GRYFFINDOR!”

Hm, was it considering another house? Ravenclaw, maybe? Hadrian didn’t know her enough to be able to guess, but he could safely rule out Slytherin.

Names were called one after another until it got to Neville Longbottom. Kid seemed to have trouble staying on his feet. Another bit of a stall because the hat took a moment, the kid’s head was nearly swallowed by the hat. Finally, “Gryffindor!”

M’s was soon upon them and Draco was called after Macmillan. Barely a moment after the hat touched his poised head it called out Slytherin. A witch named Moon also went to Slytherin. It wasn’t a name Hadrian recognized but she could have been from the Continent.

“Nott, Theodore!”

Theo gracefully moved away from them, keeping his eyes straight ahead as he stepped up onto the podium and then turned to face them. He looked right at Hadrian who winked at him. He sat on the stool and the hat was placed on his head, nearly swallowing him too. It took about as long as Granger. It seemed to be taking its sweet time, either that or Theo was making a point to it. Finally after several heartbeats ticked by…

“Ravenclaw!”

Blaise made a noise. “Wow…although not particularly surprising.”

Hadrian couldn’t stop his smile when McGonagall took off the hat and Theo looked at him with big eyes.

Hadrian watched Theo make his way to the clapping Ravenclaw, his robes starting to change.

“Looks good on him,” Blaise whispered.

“Yes,” Hadrian agreed. He was happy for his friend. He didn’t have to follow in his father’s footsteps if he damn well didn’t want to.

A lot of P’s followed soon after. Starting with Parkinson, Patil, and the other Patil. The twins were separated. One to Gryffindor the other Ravenclaw. Perks went to Hufflepuff.

“Potter, Harry!”

What? Hadrian’s eyes dropped to his feet as the silence grew after Professor McGonagall’s call. He ignored the pounding of his heart and didn’t move an inch.

“Is he here?” Blaise whispered to Hadrian. “Isn’t he the Halfblood who went missing around ten years ago?”

Hadrian shrugged, unable to comment. He didn’t blame Blaise for not knowing considering he grew up in Italy.

“Potter, Harry!” Professor McGoangall called again.

Hadrian chanced flicking his eyes up at the staff table, noting that Dumbledore and Snape had leaned forward as if expectantly. He dropped his eyes before they could catch him looking. His name was not Harry Potter. It was Hadrian Rookwood, thank you very much. He wasn’t moving.

Another few minutes passed before Professor McGonagall moved on again, ignoring the fact that no one moved at the name. After a few names his was finally called. “Rookwood, Hadrian.”

Now, Hadrian moved his arse. Blaise caught and gave his hand a squeeze before letting him move too far away. Hadrian’s heart felt like it was going to explode into his throat and out his mouth in a sick display all across the Hogwarts Hall. His face was blank on the outside. Perfect and poised as any Pureblood. He kept his eyes down only slightly and when he raised them to Professor McGonagall, he thought he saw for a moment her own eyes widening as he stepped elegantly onto the incline and then onto the stool.

She inclined her head at him and as Hadrian looked over at Blaise, the world went black. The hat was dropped down onto his head and over his eyes. It smelled old and musty. He didn’t like this total darkness in a room full of strangers.

A sensation of a raw egg seemed to crack over his head and his eyes narrowed within the depths of the darkness. “My my… what a mind and magic we have here,” said a rutted voice that sounded older than time. “So much inside of you… it seems magic has blessed you in ways that haven’t been seen in a long time… Rookwood, huh?”

Hadrian stiffened. What if all this got back to the Headmaster and others? He was not a Potter!

“Never fear, young Rookwood. Your secret is safe with me. I am bound by strong Ancient Magic. Lady Hogwarts would never allow anyone, not even a Headmaster, to know what is inside the minds of her children that I have seen. No. No. You and your secrets are safe with me. But, let’s take a look shall we?”

“Just put me in Slytherin,” Hadrian requested.

“Slytherin, eh? You believe you belong there? It feels to me like you can go just about anywhere. You do have a certain amount of ambition and wouldn’t Slytherin love to hold a treasure such as you? You do know, don’t you? Your magic is unlike the others… you know the last who had such potential - his mind was not like yours. Hm… hm…” It seemed to be considering something. “Gryffindor is a good one. You have an overflowing amount of bravery and courage.”

“No. Absolutely not,” Hadrian growled in his own mind. “I refuse.”

“Mm, I can see that a tug o’ war is bound to break out at some point if I try. But you know, you have a taste of everyone. Ravenclaw would be proud to cultivate your mind further.”

“If that’s where you want to put me.”

“You have friendship and loyalty too. Oh loyalty in spades and not in the way that most have come to expect. You never give up. You value your long time friends and your family. Oh, this is a mind isn’t it? I’m almost giggly with an overflow of your magic.” He wiggled upon Hadrian’s heads.

“Just tell me where I’m going!” Hadrian resisted reaching up and pinching the brim of the bloody hat. “As long as it’s not Gryffindor.”

The hat began to laugh out loud, and he could feel the ripple of surprise pass along the students without seeing them. “If only there was a house for all… but - I guess the next best thing… HUFFLEPUFF!” It shouted the name aloud, and the world came back into focus when McGonagall snatched the hat off his head.

Hadrian looked right up at her. She was looking at him for the briefest moment. “Well, Mr. Rookwood, Hufflepuff,” she said and was he being deceived or did she give him an encouraging smile?

He didn’t look left or right. He simply couldn’t as he moved without thought. His robes swished about him as the black began to change to yellow the closer he got to the table filled with warm smiles, claps, and yellows. His heart was loud in his ears, the blood thrumming and pumping to the point of vibration.

Like Theo he was separated from his friends, his family. He wasn’t even a Ravenclaw like Theo and his dad. He was alone. Before his mind could tumble down that rabbit hole, he reminded himself that they all said they’d support him no matter what house he got sorted into. He just had to trust his friends.

He managed to get to his seat before his legs could actually give out. He’d unconsciously chosen to sit with his back to the Slytherins. He found Theo’s eyes as someone grasped his hands to shake it.

“Well done, may I call you Hadrian?” Hadrian almost flinched - almost being the keyword when a voice brushed against his ear and he looked over to see Cedric Diggory beside him. “Forgot to ask on the train.”

“Aren’t you supposed to be further up?” Hadrian’s mouth moved before he could control himself.

“Sure, but once I heard your house I just had to sit closer and officially welcome you.” he chuckled at Hadrian’s rapid blink. “You were a hat stall.”

“A what?”

“Eight minutes under that hat. No one’s seen a hat stall in about a hundred years or so. A few have come close, like that Granger and Nott in your year, but it’s not considered an official one until five minutes has passed. After all, some students just like chatting with the hat. I know Roger Davies over in Ravenclaw claims it was too hard to not continue asking the hat questions when it was his turn.”

“Fantastic.” It was all he could squeeze out. He wasn’t really seeing Cedric because he was a bit dizzy if he were being honest. It was like Cedric and the others were in photographs that he was looking at from a distance. His ears roared as he heard the next names being called but didn’t register them. “Yes… by the way.”

“Yes?”

“You can call me Hadrian.” It was nice to be asked. “All I wanted to do was pinch the silly thing.”

Cedric started laughing and those who caught what he said laughed too.

“Ooh, what did it say? What did it say?” asked a cute boy who looked smaller than him. He had puppy brown eyes, brown hair, and light complexion.

“Manners, Justin. Remember what I told you,” said the Abbott girl, kindly.

Justin blinked and then blushed. “Sorry. I’m still learning the ropes. I’m Justin Finch-Fletchley.”

“Hadrian… and well it was being a pain in the arse I reckon. Least it didn’t send me to where I didn’t want to go, so that’s something.”

“Where didn’t you want to go, may I ask? Hannah Abbott by the way.”

“Gryffindor,” Hadrian confessed, surprising even the older years.

“Really? I’m surprised to hear that,” said a brown haired, brown eyed girl sitting next to Hannah. “I’m Susan Bones. It’s nice to meet you, Heir Rookwood. My aunt has many nice things to say about your father. I’m sorry I couldn’t attend your celebrations but I hope they were good. My aunt said yout manor was beautifully decorated.”

“Just Hadrian, please. It’s nice to meet you, Heiress Bones,” he insisted.

“Just Susan, then.”

A Smith, Zacharias and Weasley, Ronald were sorted and both went to Gryffindor. Hadrian’s breath stopped and he shifted his attention to the front when Blaise was called last. “Zabini, Blaise.”

“Friend?” Cedric asked, leaning closer to him as Blaise looked straight at Hadrian with a sly smirk before the hat closed down over his eyes.

“One of the best,” said Hadrian, openly showing affection before he could stifle it. He turned back to focus all his attention on the hat.

About two or so minutes later it cried out. “So help me, he’s a Slytherin!” The hat called out to everyone’s surprise causing Blaise to smirk even wider when the hat was pulled from his head.

It was now over, but Hadrian was still feeling nauseous. He could hear the Slytherins behind him. He thought he heard his name but who was he fooling?

Hufflepuff. He hadn’t really considered that one.

Chapter Text

Chapter Nine

“Never tell the truth to people who are not worthy of it.”

― Mark Twain

He didn’t hear a bloody thing that the Headmaster said before the food swelled on the empty platters and the wizard was sitting back down. Silverware and goblets clinked and clanked and Hadrian sat there in a hazy daze as voices ran rampant on either side of him.

He trusted his friends, but it didn’t stop the fear inside of him. That nagging worry that hung over his head. He shook his head when he was offered something.

“You should eat,” said Cedric patiently.

“Not all that hungry.”

“You will be in the middle of the night. It’s a bit soon to be hunting down the kitchens.” He urged Hadrian to at least take a dinner roll, which he did. It was light and fluffy. It didn’t need extra butter as when he bit into it the insides already tasted like it. He did his best to not look at anyone. He heard the small talk all around him, but did not partake right now. If he was asked a question, he answered but didn’t really engage.

He couldn’t help but feel disconnected more than anything. He was used to Blaise or Draco or someone he trusted right beside him. He was used to touches and brushes to the point that the idea of not having them around or close enough bothered him immensely.

He hadn’t even thought to bring any of his stuffed animals, how was he going to sleep tonight? He would have to send for them. He hoped Phoebe popped by in the morning. He shook his head when he was offered pumpkin juice. “No thanks, I don’t like it.”

“We have melon, cucumber water, a lemonade with a swirl of sorbet, and gillyweed tea,” said Cedric. “Someone has a few other teas down that way if you would like me to get it for you.”

“Cucumber water.” He thanked the boy and sipped at his goblet. He didn’t need to be waited on, though he appreciated Cedric’s sincere kindness.

A laugh behind him made him nearly shiver, and he fought the urge to look over his shoulder as he kept his head tucked slightly. He shifted again only to feel something in his front pocket. That was when he remembered and pulled out Cassius’ envelope.

Surely it was safe to open at the table? Blaise was the one who was more likely to send him something inappropriate than Cassius. At least on the surface. He carefully opened the envelope and pulled out a thin piece of parchment. It was carefully folded and crisp.

Roses are red, violets are blue. Hadrian has always been golden so to Hufflepuff goes you.

His heart fluttered and warmth spread through him. When he looked into the envelope again, he found and pulled out a shining gold chain. On the end of the gold chain was a round golden locket. It had a simple rose carved on it with a pinky nail size diamond in the center. Around the rose eight little diamonds sat in a perfect circle. They were small and unobtrusive.

He opened the snap of the locket and smiled when he saw the inside. At first glance it looked like a clock face with too many hands. Where numbers usually were were various locations. ‘Class’, ‘Dorm’, ‘Home’, ‘Gardens’, ‘Field’, ‘Lake’, ‘Great Hall’, ‘Village’, and ‘Danger’ were clearly written in clear small letters. Instead of the hands of a clock to point out the time, the hands on this piece were tipped with small gems of varying colors. The hands stopped well clear of the words so that you could always read them. There were eight gems in total. Hadrian looked back in the envelope to see if there was an explanation on the colors, but there was nothing. He was so intent and focused on it that he forgot he was in the Great Hall.

“Oh! You got one of my family’s watch necklaces.” A female called out to him. He looked up to see Abbott smiling at him. “From our shop on High Street, the Golden Peacock. I recognize the necklace as one of the ones my grandfather created. Each hand represents a different person, if I remember correctly,” she ducked down to see the front of it, “yes, that one should have locations relevant to Hogwarts plus the standard ‘danger’. All of ours have a ‘danger’ setting as a warning you see.” She looked proud and pleased as could be. “My grandfather is such a gentle hand. I’m not sure what’s going to happen when he can’t make them anymore. No one else in my family has steady enough hands for it.”

“Locations around Hogwarts? So ‘village’ must mean Hogsmeade.”

“That’s right. It would also mean that any of the hands of it are set to people at the school. Usually, there are names on it. I can’t imagine how difficult it would have been to tie a gem to the person though. I don’t know how that works.”

Neither did he. So she wouldn’t be much help. But the fact they were tied to Hogwarts was a clue. With eight hands his mind immediately jumped to his friends, but which colors went to which one?

Eyes or favorite colors? Cassius’ eyes were blue but so was Theo sort of. Marcus had dark eyes but so did many others. But he did see the amethyst which pointed to eyes. Could that be Blaise? He was confused now because garnet was one of the colors and one was emerald green like his own eyes.

He’d have to find Cassius and ask to know for sure. He carefully put it around his neck, the chain was long enough to hide the locket under his robes resting mid-chest, and folded the little poem. He did feel a bit better, but at the same time had this sense of exposure that he wasn’t used to.

He wasn’t feeling brave enough to get up and go ask now though. Not when moving between tables would draw attention to himself from everyone. He’d find Cassius tomorrow.

Finally he convinced himself to take some grilled chicken that was teasing his appetite. At least the nausea had abated. He forwent the salad that was on offer and instead went for some buttery potatoes with herbs. No wonder all the boys grew so much - except for Terry. Maybe he should spoon feed Terry some of these potatoes.

He lightened considerably at his thoughts and resisted giggling out loud. Being melancholy was not his natural state of being.

“You look better,” said Cedric. “Happier.”

“A bit. The letter and present helped a lot.”

“Well, don’t worry. Hufflepuff accepts everyone no matter what,” he assured Hadrian gently. “We don’t believe in being divided. We’re the largest house and most overlooked, Hufflepuff tends to be the forgotten house for better or worse. Gryffindor and Slytherin are the ones that are constantly making themselves known and drawing attention. Ravenclaws tend to stand out in academics, no surprise, but Gryfiindor and Slytherin houses are always warring with each other over something. I guess your friend Zabini is one reason why you didn’t want Gryffindor?”

“A little,” Hadrian said thinking of his locket.

“We always have another Hufflepuff’s back no matter our differences in culture and blood.”

“Are we allowed to spend time at other house tables and stuff?”

“If you’re invited, yes. A lot of ‘Puffs sway between our house and Ravenclaw, sometimes Gryffindor or Slytherin. Slytherins rarely invite us to theirs though, unless there’s a sibling that was sorted here,” said Cedric. “Gryffindors don’t change tables much and rarely do Slytherins, but I have a feeling we might be getting some visitors, right?”

“Maybe. I don’t know,” said Hadrian. “Blaise probably. He didn’t come to Hogwarts with the same understanding and preconceptions that others did. Maybe some of my other friends, but they’re more likely to pull me to sit with them. What about the common rooms?”

“I haven’t heard about people going into other houses’ common rooms but I don’t believe there’s a rule against it. You have to know where they are and be let in by someone from that house though. Houses guard their common room entrances religiously though.”

“So I can’t invite my friends to Hufflepuff’s?”

“You’d have to check with a Prefect, but like I said, I don’t think there’s a rule against it. Not sure they’ll want to come though. Most houses tend to ignore us or call us ‘weak’ for dumb reasons.”

“Hmm..” Hadrian hummed. Cedric was right, he was unlikely to get any of the guys from Slytherin to step foot in a different common room because they wouldn’t be able to be themselves there. Except for Blaise, Blaise would go anywhere he wanted to. Hopefully they’ll allow him to visit them in Slytherin.

“Sometimes it’s hard being part of a legacy family,” Cedric chuckled.

“Yes,” Hadrian agreed. “It is. I’m just glad my father doesn’t expect me to end up in Ravenclaw just because he was.”

Cedric was soon introducing him to his friends, which happened to be everyone. He was clearly the popular one in the house. He had an easy going smile and didn’t seem to have any ulterior motives. Hadrian spoke more to some of the students in his year. Justin Finch-Fletchley was the obvious Muggleborn and Ernie Macmillan-nine-generations-of-Pureblood seemed to take to him, same with Hannah Abbott.

Susan Bones was more reserved, but no less friendly. Megan Jones was a dimple cheeked Halfblood. Her father had been a Muggle and he ran away when her mother fell pregnant, so she never knew him. Finally was Leanne Miller. She was a Muggleborn out of Wales. She had short bobbed brownish red hair and round features. She had what Hermione Granger had said was braces on her teeth. Hannah had asked about them. Justin had been surprised she had never heard of braces and started talking about them. All that metal in the mouth? Hadrian wondered how that was even safe. Like Hadrian, most Purebloods looked at Justin in horror and then shuddered at the very idea of it.

Hadrian didn’t offer more or less than surface information when those around him asked. Ernie Macmillan was like a Light haughty Draco in a lot of ways. He didn’t know why Ernie bugged him so much when Draco did not, but he did.

Some talk about Quidditch started up as the food began to vanish and it was replaced by desserts of every kind to blocks of ice cream, pies, tarts, and cakes. Hadrian took a lemon tart. He could hear a lot of noise from the Gryffindor table, but couldn’t quite see them well enough to know what was going on. It sounded like a couple were getting rowdy.

He then found his eyes drawn back to the staff table as he nibbled on the lemon tart. The Headmaster was in the center on his chair looking up at the darkened skies as if he was in contemplation. For all intents and purposes he looked relaxed from what Hadrian could see, but Hadrian had seen the contemplating expression every day of his life since he could remember. He wondered what Headmaster Dumbledore thought he’d gain by having McGonagall call for Harry Potter? Is there something that let the Headmaster believe that Harry Potter was still alive? He wondered about that, but couldn’t quite work through his question because he simply didn’t know. A long shot in the dark or something? Not even his friends knew that he’d once upon a time been called Harry Potter.

It was a secret their parents had given oaths to keep. They had sworn oaths on their magic to stop them from being able to tell anyone not already in the know which meant only Hadrian and Augustus could tell the secret.

He was knocked out of his thoughts when the last of the food vanished. Good thing Hadrian had drunk the rest of his water before it too disappeared. “Before I let the Prefects direct students to their House Common Rooms after such a lovely feast, there are a few announcements that must be made. First off, our Caretaker, Argus Filch, would like to remind everyone that the list of banned items is pinned to his office door. You can also ask him about items on it at any time. Secondly, students would do well to remember that the Forbidden Forest, as per its name, is Forbidden from entry to any student.” Here the Headmaster shot a look over to the Gryffindor table. “Lastly, the third floor corridor, left of this great hall, is strictly off limits to anyone who wants to avoid a most certain and painful death. The rest of the third floor is perfectly safe, I assure you, just avoid that corridor. Thank you. Now, Prefects, please escort your houses to their common rooms where your Heads will meet you. Head Boy and Head Girl, please ensure all students leave in an orderly fashion. Good night.”

What? Hadrian glanced at the Headmaster. What sense did that make in this massive castle to warn students against an exact location? What on earth?

“Is that standard?” Hadrian asked softly to Cedric.

“No,” said Cedric with the first small frown he’d seen on the boy. It didn’t fit him. “I can’t help but think of him as being a bit foolish for saying this so publicly. Surely the professors could have just blocked off the area in question.”

“My thoughts exactly,” said Hadrian. “Dad learned early not to forbid me from anything or I might do it for fun.”

Cedric coughed quietly, his smile coming back tenfold. “Come on.” He stood and held out his hand to Hadrian.

A low growl emitted from behind Hadrian, but Cedric didn’t seem to notice. Hadrian smiled and placed his hand in the boy’s hand. It was as nice and warm as he remembered the handshake from earlier.

He turned to get off the bench only to find himself being surrounded and stared at by several Slytherins with their arms crossed over their chests. Cassius being the most prominent one. Blaise was giggling behind Draco’s back, hard enough Hadrian could see his braids shaking.

“Warrington,” said Cedric cheerfully. “Good evening.”

Cassius looked flatly at Cedric and then at Hadrian who arched a brow.

“Slytherins! Come on! This way now.” shouted a fifth year Prefect.

“Fuck off,” Marcus growled back.

“We’re busy here,” said Adrian. “We’ll direct these first years, go away.”

“Not as busy as Hadrian’s been,” Blaise giggled-snorted and then ducked behind Graham who was much taller than Draco. He thought Marcus might have taken a swipe at him.

“Is everything okay?” asked a fifth year Hufflepuff prefect softly. “Do you need a moment?”

Cassius moved right into Hadrian’s personal space. His hands rose to caress Hadrian’s cheeks and he bent to kiss him on the forehead. It came off a bit harder than he probably meant to do. Hadrian was a bit stunned. “Not happy with you not looking at me.”

“Thank you for the locket, Cass. I love it.”

“You’re welcome, sweetheart.” Cassius’ glare intensified in Cedric’s direction and then he turned his back as everyone came over to hug and kiss him one by one. Draco, Graham, and Terry all gave him hugs with cheek kisses. However, Adrian and Marcus copied Cassius by kissing him on his forehead. It stunned most of Hufflepuff who had been unable to move, watching the interaction like it was a spectacle.

Most of the Slytherins had cleared out except for one or two and one of the older Prefects who was getting annoyed.

“What’s with you, Blaise?”

Blaise shook his head, braids clinking as they shifted, and scooped Hadrian off the ground. He swung them around. Hadrian couldn’t help but laugh.

“Blaise, propriety!” Draco hissed quietly.

“Oh fuck propriety, Draco. No one cares,” said Blaise, squeezing Hadrian. Before letting him go, Blaise gave him a kiss on both cheeks. He was very happy that his friends weren’t upset with his sorting.

“We should track down Theo,” said Draco.

“We will, but he has further to go than the 'Puffs,” said Adrian. “Let’s go, everyone. Hadrian, we’ll catch you tomorrow.”

Most of the 'Puffs were stunned. “Well that was enlightening.” Hadrian had noticed out of the corner of his eye how some of the teachers had been sitting at their seats stunned by the exchange.

Cedric smiled. “I guess you really are a Hufflepuff.”

“How do you figure?” Hadrian asked, watching Marcus walk away, pulling a laughing Blaise by the arm. He snorted when Marcus shoved Blaise, almost knocking him into the wall if Adrian and Graham hadn’t caught him.

“You did the impossible,” said a pink-cheeked older student. “The Slytherins rarely ever look at us.”

“Uhm, I hate to break everything up, but we really need to get going,” said the Prefect from before.

“Slytherins are evil,” Ernie muttered behind Justin. “How can he be so friendly with them?”

“That’s not true,” said Cedric. “You shouldn’t generalize, Ernie,” he chided.

“But-”

“No, it’s not right to generalize someone based on a house. That’s always done to us. We’re the ‘weak house’, Slytherin is the ‘evil house’. It’s not right nor is it fair,” he said. “Come on. Let’s listen to Audrey before a teacher comes over to inquire on why we’re still here.”

The entrance to the Hufflepuff Common Room was not obvious at first. They were led deep into the dungeons of Hogwarts, and that kind of excited Hadrian because he knew Slytherin was in the dungeons too. A bunch of barrels sat along the corridor they ended up in. Some of the old stone walls had buds of flowers and vines as if they’d naturally grown through the rock wall overtime.

He was following close behind Cedric as they reached the three largest barrels. “Every month the tune changes. You might want to memorize the tune otherwise you will be shot in the face with vinegar or honey depending on the amusement of Hogwarts herself,” said the Fifth Year Prefect.

“What?” Susan asked, confused, and Hadrian was with her.

“Watch.” She tapped on part of the barrel. “Hel-ga Huff-le-Puff!” All the first years flinched when the top of the barrel slid up revealing a large black hole that even Hagrid could fit through.

“See? Do you need me to do it again? Each month a new tune will be added to the notice board inside of the common room. I advise you to read it carefully and practice a few times before leaving.”

Several students nodded. She did it twice more.

“I want to see someone get it wrong,” Hadrian hummed, causing Cedric to smile down at him.

“You will. Someone always forgets a step.” He urged Hadrian through as everyone moved forward first. His hand gently touched the younger’s back as he did. Hadrian was impressed and awed when he came through into what had to be the most warm and comfortable space he’d ever seen in his life.

It was like a gentle forest glade inside of a music box, there were three rooms that blended together and over top of that were wide chunky staircases that went up to a balcony that looked down over into the common room. Each of the downstairs rooms had a fireplace. Most of the furniture was made of natural autumnal colors with splashes of yellow and cream here and there. Most of the seating was tufted and there were plants and vines growing out of what looked like wood rather than stone. Hadrian wondered if they were actually in the barrel. Now that was a creative concept.

It was airy and at the same time warm. It reminded him of the farm fields or the open meadows around old Feldcroft where once houses stood but now it was nothing but grass and beautiful because of it.

“I take it you like it,” said Cedric smiling.

“It’s lovely,” Hadrian agreed. “Reminds me of the fields around where I live.”

“Gather around first years!” Audrey, the fifth year Prefect, called out. “You may be unaware, but Hufflepuff typically houses the most students out of all the houses. We are the house that is known to accept everyone, no matter what. It’s a good thing sometimes to be in the middle of the pack. Don’t let other houses fool you into thinking you are soft and weak. If they don’t understand us, that is not our fault. It’s their own.” Hadrian could respect those words. “Now, we have so many students and there are often times where older students come and go. Some get pulled out in the middle of the year for a health reason or something else. A couple have even been taken out because they are moving overseas - it doesn’t matter. Anyways, what I mean to say is that unlike most houses that room their students by age and gender. We room students by gender and availability because it’s so unpredictable how many students we’ll have at any one time. Everyone is two to a room. It gives us the rare luxury of having a little more privacy than other houses I would imagine. But I warn you all - including the upper years - to respect each other’s space. You won’t be able to change rooms until the end of the school year unless it’s an emergency. You each will be supplied with a key.” She held up a handful of large bronze shining keys. All of them had something etched on the three looped flower ends. Hadrian had seen that pattern before. His dad called it fleur-de-lis. “Do NOT lose it. You will be sleeping in the common room if you lose it until a new one is made for you. Before you all come get your keys, our Head of House has a few words to say.”

Hadrian watched as the flower wearing woman from the staff table stepped into the room. “Welcome old and new Hufflepuffs. For those who don’t know, I am Professor Pamona Sprout and I teach Herbology here at Hogwarts. As Prefect Audrey stated, Hufflepuff is known for accepting everyone. We are all unique in different ways and our house prides itself in being open to everyone who needs a home. While you are with us, whether that is for a month or all seven years, you will be welcomed here. I’d like to reiterate Headmaster Dumbledore’s warnings from after dinner. Please avoid bringing any banned items onto school property, a copy of the list is on the bulletin board by the door. Do not go into the Forbidden Forest for any reason and please avoid the third floor corridor this year. I know it may be a bit of a hassle to go around, but I really must insist on it. Finally, your class schedules will be shared tomorrow morning at breakfast, so please ensure you are there for the meal. Now, receive your room keys from Audrey and the boys' rooms are on the right, the girls’ are upstairs on the left.”

“Good luck on the roommate,” Cedric whispered to him and Hadrian nodded as the boy left his side to join some of his friends who were the same age as him. If more Light wizards were like him then Hadrian could see a great relationship developing on all sides. It was a pity that extremists tended to ruin everything.

Audrey divided the keys for the boys and girls, and began to hand them out at random. Hadrian found that he had a Roman numeral seven on his key. It was weighty and felt cool in his hand.

So did that mean his room was number seven? Hadrian shrugged to himself and made his way to the staircase. He’d get an answer by viewing the doors upstairs. Justin quickly joined him. “What room did you get?” he asked eagerly.

“Seven. You?”

“Five. I was hoping to room with Ernie at least. I mean, I feel odd rooming with strangers.”

“I agree. I wonder why they didn’t take into account sexuality though?”

Justin blinked. “Hm?”

“Sexuality. Like how not everyone is interested in the opposite sex.”

“Oh, you mean like I have two mums,” Justin offered and Hadrian tilted his head at that. “Most think it’s weird. At least Muggles do. Some shun my mums. I had to go to a special private school to keep from being bullied. But I love my mums. I wouldn’t trade them for a dad for anything in this world. I was nervous though when I told Hannah and Ernie. They seemed okay with it. I was shocked.”

“Only those who come in with preconceptions from the Muggle world, their religion and culture, would have a real problem with it, Justin,” he told the boy, making him smile. “My dad is involved in a long term relationship with a man. I’m certainly going to end up the same since I’m drawn to men more than women. I ran across a female Veela this summer who was using her charms in a tournament and I felt nothing.”

“I figured after I saw all those Slytherins all around you. I think it’s cute,” said Justin. Hadrian couldn’t help but like this kid a little. Muggleborn or not. He didn’t have an alignment, but he could do well in the future. “I like that sexuality isn’t seen as a big deal. It’s a world away from the Muggle world.”

“You are no longer a part of that world. So you shouldn’t bother with their culture and ideals. Learn about this new world you’ve entered into. Think of it like moving to a new country. Comparing it to your old home won’t help you at all, but learning and accepting the culture of your new home will make things easier.” Maybe he could get this Muggleborn to drop his old thinking and learn. If Justin was willing to assimilate then maybe not all Muggleborns weren’t hopeless sheep for the Light.

“That’s kind of what Hannah said.”

“She is right.”

When they made it to the top, Hadrian saw that there was a rounded tunnel-like hallway that branched in the middle, like crossroads. Hadrian could easily see himself getting lost. Good thing that the numbers on doors started at one. Five rooms before the roads split again. Justin stopped at the last door as Hadrian hung a right. A couple of boys were going into various rooms and shutting doors behind them.

He found his room, the door was painted green with a gold VII.

He took a deep breath when he heard laughing somewhere down the hall and shoved the key into the lock and turned it. Stepping into the room, Hadrian noticed that it was fairly good sized. On each side of the room was a maple wood four poster bed with autumnal brown sheets and duvets. Gold privacy curtains were pushed to the bottom posts of the bed and looked like they had enough fabric that they could be drawn up and across if he wanted them to enclose the bed.

Good.

He may be willing to share a bed with friends, but he wanted a space where he could have privacy with a stranger around. It wouldn’t be the same if he had been sorted into Slytherin. There he could have relaxed fully with Blaise and Draco, but here he was sharing a room with a stranger. He could only hope that the stranger was someone he could put up with all year.

He knew that his mind and body was in shock right now, and he had to be on his best behavior in a den full of Light witches and wizards. A large part of him really felt as though he did not belong, but he couldn’t act like that. A Pureblood belonged anywhere they happened to be. Hadrian didn’t necessarily want to be here, but it could be worse.

He could be a Gryffindor.

He saw his black leather trunk sitting at the end of the bed. He knew it was his because Rookwood was written in old English silver lettering across the bottom. On the top was the Rookwood coat of arms.

A door opened at the back of the room. Hadrian hadn’t noticed before, but the door sat directly in the middle of the circular room, equi-distant from either bed. A tall lanky boy came out with short tidy brown hair. He was as average as average could be and was wearing a robe over flannel pajamas.

“I get the corrupted one? Excellent. That means it will be easier to save you instead of having to track you down. Jonah Parnell.” He smirked, one hand on his chest. “Hasn’t anyone told you yet? Slytherins are evil. Don’t listen to Diggory. He’s a good sort, but very misguided.”

Hadrian frowned at him. Maybe Gryffindor would have been a better option, he thought all of a sudden. “Right. Just because we’re roommates doesn’t mean we have to chat. It’s obvious from those statements, we are very different people.”

“Don’t be like that. Hufflepuff’s are all accepting. Good in theory, bad in execution. I come from a long line of Preachers in the Muggle world.”

“Preachers?”

“We’re men and servants of God who help spread his word to others. We educate others about the good that God grants and how to steer clear of the things and people who do the devil’s work.”

“Oh.” It was hard to keep the disgust out of his voice or the wrinkle off his nose. “I’m sorry for you then.”

“What’s that supposed to mean? Are you one of those weird Purebloods? Good thing things are changing around here and I am here to help you. You should stop hanging around snakes. The bible clearly shows that snakes are the most frequently used avatar of demons, tempting good men and women to be sinful. The only reason I’m here is my father believes I can bring the word of God to this magical world.”

Hadrian made his way to his side of the room, ignoring the watchful gaze. “I don’t care.” He chose to say. He could have channel Marcus or Draco but he figured pissing off his roommate the first night would not be a good idea.

“You wouldn’t say that if you understood what Heaven and Hell really was. Don’t worry, by the end of the year you’ll understand.”

“Uh huh…” Hadrian checked out his bed, noting more intricate details as he got closer. Like the pretty leaf pattern done in a lighter brown across the duvet. The bedding was soft as soft could be.

His good-natured hospitality was now starting to wear thin the longer the Muggleborn spoke. Just who the bloody hell did this bloke think he was? He went to his trunk to make sure nothing had been disturbed. He knew his father had set some rather nasty spells on it should anyone of Light or Neutral alignment try to open it, but it didn't hurt to check.

“Are you listening to me?”

Hadrian wanted to pretend he didn’t exist. It was better off that way, but he couldn’t ignore him completely. “No, Parnell, I am not listening to you.” He finally tilted his head and looked over at the boy who looked annoyed at him. “Nothing you have to say is of any interest to me. So save your breath for someone who will listen. Sounds like you’d be at home in the Muggle world.”

“You should find it interesting. My father and the Bible taught me to spread the word to those who are most ignorant. I’ve read a lot about this world and how evil and consumed it is. The Headmaster agreed with me when I brought my concerns to him. He’s even given me permission to offer sermons on Sundays to all houses, giving me the opportunity to speak to all houses at once and spread the word of God. I respect the work the Headmaster is doing to try and fix the sins of this world.”

Hadrian was on the edge of screaming. How was he going to get a shower in these conditions and go to bed? “What did you do, talk to your last roommate to death?”

“He changed rooms over summer. Another poor unfortunate soul.”

“I like my lost soul, thank you. It’s in good ‘demony’ hands, I assure you.” Whatever the hell that meant.

“That isn’t funny. You shouldn’t joke like that.”

“Bloody hell, bugger off.” He wondered if this was grounds for an emergency change of rooms? He doubted it, but he’d like to ask. If not he might have to ask Marcus and Cassius for ideas on how to get rid of him. Or find a way to introduce him to Lady Zabini.

Luckily, Jonah Parnell decided to head out of the room. Hadrian didn’t care to ask where he was going. He seemed annoyed that Hadrian wasn’t listening to him. Merlin, if he really started ‘sermons’ on Sunday Hadrian was going to have to do something to stop that. At all costs.

Gryffindor was starting to look better and better. He gathered some of his things from his trunk, sighing as the room became disturbingly quiet. He frowned at the expansive room and then turned to the bathroom.

It was tiled in green, gold, and brown. Hadrian couldn’t decide if he liked it or not. It was a modest size, not like his at home but it had two sinks and some granite counters with one large mirror over it.

A toilet stall sat on its own away from the large shower. Hadrian supposed if you were close to your roommate you could share. Hah, Hadrian was sure he’d accidentally drown the bastard.

Accidents could happen to anyone anywhere.

He quickly showered after locking the door tight. Normally, Hadrian liked taking his time but he didn’t trust his new roommate as far as he could throw him without magic.

He was out in a flash and took a towel to his hair as he dried the rest of himself off. He slipped into some silk blue pajamas and brushed his hair out until it was shiny and tangle-free. He finished with his teeth and then headed back to the room.

He was highly pleased to see that the curtain on the other bed had been drawn. He did the same thing. Pulling them until his bed was entirely encased. He pulled his wand and cast a sticking charm on them that Rodolphus had taught him two weeks ago followed by a charm to wake him in the morning. Only then did he fall into the bed. It was comfortable, but he would be willing to sleep on the cold stone ground just to be in Slytherin or even Ravenclaw.

Chapter Text

Chapter Ten

“It’s only after you’ve stepped outside your comfort zone that you begin to change, grow, and transform.”

― Roy T. Bennett

That night was the first time Hadrian not only slept horribly, but he had nightmares. Nightmares that he could barely remember, but knew that they had struck terror deep in his chest. He awoke feeling groggy and suffocated. The rotten smell filling his nose made it even harder to breathe.

Hadrian took a deep breath and pushed the covers aside with an inward groan. It was like his mouth swallowed a box of cotton balls. Why did his limbs feel stiff? He didn’t hear his roommate in the room, thank Merlin. So much for small favors.

He sat at the edge of the bed and bent over to rub at his eyes. His hair puddled around his face brushing along his jaw and chin. Why did he feel so awful? His head was all foggy.

He slid off the bed. His bladder begged to be relieved so he gathered some things into his arms and headed for the bathroom. He could smell the dampness in the air as well as a weird artificial scent that stung his nose more making him sneeze. So, the shower was used and he was gone? Good to know. His roommate was an early riser, but Merlin, what bath stuff was he using? Hadrian held his breath as he quickly finished what he needed to do. He forgot to brush his hair in his hurry to get out of there before he died.

Hadrian adjusted the robes and the button down beneath it that did not sit right no matter what he did as he made his way across the room. Just the fact that the trousers were brushing the floor and sliding under his boots was irritating.

He waved his wrist and his key flew fast into his hand. Maybe he could sleep in the common room. Unfortunately everyone was going in and out in a loud cacophony of noise and sound.

“Good morning, Hadrian!” Justin’s chirp made Hadrian want to hex him.

He barely avoided doing such a thing. It wouldn’t be fair to the kid. Hadrian could hardly form words. His breathing was off and so he shuffled past Justin without saying a word. Rude of him, he knew. He could hear his godmother’s chastisement already, but he couldn’t really concentrate right now.

All Hadrian wanted to do was get to the exit. That was all that was on his mind as he worked his way through the tunnels. He ignored Ernie who called out to him and even Cedric as he swept past him and his friends for the exit.

He stepped into the barrel and the lid slid up. It was weird, the moment he stepped out of the Hufflepuff Common Room some of the constriction around his chest began to lighten. He was so focused on his own breathing that he hadn’t noticed anything around him as he dropped his hands to his knees. He tried to take a deep breath and ended up coughing a few times.

“You were being suffocated, sweetheart.”

Hadrian’s head shot up and he groaned as he’d done it too fast, but he melted the second arms wrapped firmly around him and pulled him right into a familiar chest. Hadrian’s heart beat harder than it ever had and he moaned piteously before he could control it. He breathed in Cassius’ scent. It was natural and all things good. He could feel his magic playing against him. Caressing and helping to dissolve whatever the stuffiness he felt. “Wh-what’s wrong with me?”

“It's the magic,” grunted Marcus, coming around to his side. Hadrian could barely see him because Cassius was holding him so tight. “You ain’t ever been around so much Light magic in all your life, baby. It’s really rare for a Dark wizard to be sorted into Hufflepuff.”

“Your mother is going to have a fit if you steal my bad grammar,” Cassius teased. Hadrian was so upset he couldn’t even laugh in amusement. Instead he buried his head into Cassius’ chest, arms tightening around the taller boy’s waist. Cassius was always saying things that made nobles cringe. Mostly words he picked up from his family in America. Ain’t was one of them. It was worse than bloody according to Narcissa.

“Let her. Maybe she’ll choke to death.”

“I- I didn’t think it was this bad…!” He whimpered. “Oh, Cass, it was so awful…!”

“I know, sweetheart. I’ve got you. Come on, we’ve been waiting to get you all morning. Everyone’s waiting. Blaise and Draco were nearly pushing us out to get you as soon as the sun came up.”

“Where…?”

“Slytherin. Where else would we take you?”

Hadrian didn’t want him to pull back. He protested weakly only for Cassius to cup his cheeks and look him in the eyes. He was gently kissed on the forehead. Marcus wound his arm around him and drew him close.

Hadrian snuggled up against him as he walked through the hallways of the dungeons. Cassius firmly at his other side. He wrapped his arms around Marcus, barely managing to bring his hands together around him. “What have you been doing?” he whined. “Why can’t I reach?”

“Working out.”

“I can feel that,” Hadrian said. “Last month I could at least wrap around you. Now I can’t so easily.”

“Good. It’s working then.”

They went down another path in the dungeons. Most of the torches on the walls blazed as they drew nearer, and already Hadrian could feel the cool wash of neutral magic flow around him. Cassius reached a rusted gated wall that divided the dungeons and tapped it with his wand. It went up like a portcullis rather than swinging open.

“Just tap the gate, sweetheart. No spell needed.” Cassius said as they walked through, noticing Hadrian’s questioning look.

“Lucky for us, Slytherin and Hufflepuff are basically next door,” said Marcus.

They passed by statues of toads and Hadrian felt a draw of magic toward it. “You can use that toad to travel to the Quidditch Pitch,” Marcus told him, feeling Hadrian’s head turn toward it.

“Another one on this side will take you to the Astronomy Wing,” Cassius picked up.

They finally reached an open slightly brighter dungeon area that had a Kelpie statue standing elegantly in the middle. A set of sweeping stairs on the left looked like it went to a set of double doors. He wondered where the doors went but he was directed to look at the opposite blank wall instead.

Hadrian didn’t flinch but smiled when the blank wall was suddenly not so blank and a great big serpent began to rise up. “No password?”

“You only need to say it once if you’re a Slytherin,” Marcus told him. “It’ll always open after that.”

“Password is: Doxy Venom.” Cassius added.

“Doxy Venom. Good to know I can break in and find somewhere to sleep at night. I’ll even take the ground at this rate,” Hadrian grumbled against Marcus.

“That’s not necessary, sweetheart. As if we’d let you sleep on the ground. There’s plenty of beds you’d be welcome to join,” said Cassius as they appeared in a small entrance that had sweeping stairs going up and around. He could hear the trickling of a fountain.

“We’re under the lake,” Hadrian said as he realized where they were in the castle. He was feeling stronger again. A bit more himself.

“Yes.”

Cassius led the way and Hadrian thought he should pull away from Marcus so they could go up the stairs easier but the boy tightened his hold on him and kissed him on the head. They walked together up and around and around until they reached the top where the old and graying staircase opened up around them. Tapestries in green and silver with a bit of black thrown in covered most of the walls. Elegant rugs sat over the stone floor in various places. Much like Hufflepuff, multiple rooms were combined into a large open space. The fountain he heard sat to the left of them. It wasn’t a serpent like he first expected but a mermaid, which made sense if they were under the lake.

A lot of mer decor and motifs decorated the area. He could see a roaring fireplace in the main section of the common room. The couches were stuffed like Hufflepuff’s couches but they were done in a light fairy green. A small enclave of books on black shelving was to the side of the fireplace. Probably encouraging students to study by the fire. Hadrian saw the floor to ceiling lattice windows nearby and was impressed by the fact that he was looking right out at the Black Lake. He could see a grindylow pass by chasing after schools of fish.

“He’s not a Slytherin,” Pansy Parkinson sneered. “What’s he doing here?”

“He’s as good as one,” said a pretty blonde haired girl with a sniff at Pansy. “Are you that dim witted that you don’t feel him?” She had heavy dark eyes and fair skin that reminded him of Cissa.

“Feel what?” Parkinson huffed.

“His magic.” She then turned and bowed. “It’s nice to meet you, Heir Rookwood. I’m Daphne Greengrass, Heiress Greengrass, but please call me Daphne. I’ve wanted to meet you for some time but I’ve been in Australia until yesterday morning. It’d do you some good to learn about your betters, Parkinson. You have no title to your name like Heir Rookwood.”

She scowled. “Only because he got lucky!” She sniffed. “When I marry Draco I’ll have his name.”

“You wish,” Cassius snorted at her.

“It’s nice to meet you, Daphne. I’m sorry I’m not more at myself right now. You can call me Hadrian.”

“I imagine not. Draco explained everything to me. That’s Lili over there. She’s really shy. Doesn’t speak much English I’m afraid, but she understands every word and can write better than all of us.” She spoke to Lili in what Hadrian thought was Vietnamese. He was going to have to get a spell for that. He’d hate to not be able to communicate with a fellow Dark Pureblood just because of a language barrier. Soon enough the two made their leave after someone hissed Parkinson away, making her sulk as she stomped off toward the stairs.

Hadrian was very surprised that no one batted an eyelash at him except for Parkinson. He didn’t see Bulstrode at all. “Why does no one care? Cedric told me that it’s highly unusual for other houses to be in other common rooms.”

“We made an announcement last night after Snape left,” Cassius said, taking him down a hallway that was dark and stonewalled. It, like Hufflepuff, was rounded, but it was all stone and felt quite a bit cooler when compared to Hufflepuff’s warmth. “We let everyone know that you are Heir Rookwood and you would have free access to Slytherin rooms at all times. We only got a couple of naysayers, but when we reminded them that you were very Dark affiliated nearly everyone understood. Anyone who spends any length of time surrounded by the wrong magic knows how terrible it is. You can become desperately ill and we can’t have that. We’ve reorganized our rooms around so that some of us can be closer to each other. They aren’t in order anymore like they should be. We forced the Prefects to let us put Blaise and Draco between the room Marcus, Adrian, and I are in and the room for Terry and Graham. Snape leaves us alone for the most part. He rarely comes into the common room.”

“Yeah, about him - how are we going to avoid him seeing me here?”

“He won’t notice you. Your dad took care of that,” said Cassius smirking. “No one can talk about you being in here even if they tried. They can’t even write it down. If any adult who hasn’t spent the night in these dorms in the last year sees you here, they forget about it once they leave. So even if he does see you, he won’t remember and no one can tell him. It’s created a shield for anything anyone in Slytherin wants to do, not that people plan to get up to much.”

“I didn’t know that. When did he do that?”

“You didn’t need to,” said Marcus. “He came at the end of last year with Lucius and the others on the Board of Governors. He’s not on the Board but he is a Ministry Official so he didn’t have any issues coming in. You belong here, 'Puff or not.” He squeezed Hadrian tighter, making all of him become warm.

“I need to brush my hair,” Hadrian said, raising his face to Marcus and kissing him along the jaw. “I left my dorm as soon as I could and forgot to do so.”

“Thought it looked a bit tangled, sweetheart.”

Marcus’ eyes flashed and Hadrian nosed at him as Cassius stopped at a door with his hand on the knob. He pushed it open and Marcus led him through. He didn’t see any of the room due to being immediately surrounded by his fellow first years. Hadrian wasn’t surprised that Theo had been brought in too. He at least looked like he slept better than Hadrian.

Blaise was instantly on him, making Marcus grunt. “My turn.”

After rounds of kisses and hugs, Hadrian felt so much better. Blaise was already moving to get a brush to help set him right. He hadn’t needed to be told about Hadrian forgetting to do his hair. He and Draco were rather anal about hair care, despite Draco gelling his down.

Hadrian finally took notice of the room as he was directed to sit on a bed. It was roomy with two beds. The beds were on opposite ends of the room and facing each other. Both were draped in green and silver with some whites here and there. Hadrian realized he was on Blaise’s bed. His black trunk was at the foot, the same silver lettering spelling his name on it as Hadrian’s. His dad had gifted it to Blaise with the same level of enchantments on it when he decided that he was going to Hogwarts. A door in the middle like in Hufflepuff led to what Hadrian assumed was a bathroom.

“Did you fare better than me, Theo?” Hadrian asked.

“I think so, the magic was more bland and neutral. There’s been a rather balanced mix of Light, Neutral, and Dark magicals to pass through Ravenclaw over the years so the whole space is very Neutral on the whole.”

“We worried about you all night long,” said Blaise, coming over with a brush. Something had been sprayed on it to help detangle Hadrian’s locks and he began to brush through Hadrian’s hair.

Oh, that felt amazing. He nearly melted into the bed and Blaise had to nudge him to sit up. “Did you know what was going to happen?” He asked the others in the room.

“Most of them did. I didn’t,” said Draco. “I was really worried when Blaise told me, however.”

“I’ve had to spend time in some heavily Light populated areas before. It’s not pleasant at all.” Hadrian could feel Blaise shudder behind him on the bed as he fixed Hadrian’s hair.

Hadrian broke down and told them about last night, and about his roommate. “Whatever he was using this morning was absolutely horrendous. I think that was the worst part so far. My head started pounding.”

“Muggles are famous for their artificial scents and bath products,” said Cassius. “Unfortunately, holy rollers are nothing new, especially in Texas, sweetheart. Can you request another room?”

“We were told last night that we can only change rooms in an emergency but also the house is about accepting each other so I don’t know. I didn’t bother to talk to anyone when I left the room this morning. I just needed to get out of there.”

“We can take care of it,” said Marcus.

“You better not. I know what your solution would be and as tempting as that is it wouldn’t start me off on a good footing,” said Hadrian softly. “But I do appreciate that. At least not so soon. Everyone else was okay. I mean, I wasn’t the most comfortable around them, but they weren’t extremists or nauseating until that guy.”

“Well, you’re more than welcome to come sleep with me, precious,” Blaise paused to press a kiss to Hadrian’s cheek. “We’ve shared a bed often enough.”

“That offer is open from all of us, baby. If you need to get away you come here and sleep with any of us.” Marcus added.

“I should have packed some of my stuffed animals.” Hadrian frowned down at his lap.

“We’ll get that fixed. Your dad can send some over really quickly. Feldcroft isn’t too far away after all.” Draco stated. “I’ll write a note and get it sent after breakfast.”

Hadrian let loose a whine as Blaise reached a difficult tangle. “Why did I have to get the one roommate of them all that was a complete bastard? Can you believe the Headmaster has approved of a Muggleborn giving sermons on Sundays?”

Draco frowned and Blaise made a gagging noise. “My father would have a fit if he knew! I’ll make sure to write to him about it. Put a stopper in that before it goes too far.”

“What are sermons?” Hadrian asked. “He made it sound like he’d be teaching something but I didn’t want to ask questions.”

“You don’t want to know,” said Cassius in disgust. He checked his watch. “Unfortunately, we have about twenty minutes before we have to get to breakfast for our schedules.”

By the time Blaise was done with his hair it was perfect and sleek. Theo talked about his night. He’d spent it discussing houses with Terry Boot. “He’s Neutral. Most people in Ravenclaw feel Neutral to me. A couple of Darker aligned ones, and only a small smatter of Light just now.”

“It’s a shame, Hufflepuff is quite pretty,” said Hadrian. “It’s like being in a garden music box. Lots of green and browns, very nature-y.”

“You look fetching in gold,” Blaise teased him.

“I’d prefer green.”

“No. As I said, you are golden, sweetheart,” said Cassius, standing and holding out his hand. Hadrian didn’t hesitate to accept it. He was pulled and then twirled making him laugh. “You feel better?”

“Much.”

“Good. Let’s go pick up the rest. Adrian went to make sure Terry and Graham woke and didn’t sleep through their alarm again. Let’s head to breakfast.”

Hadrian popped into the bathroom first to double check his clothes. He used some of his magic to press out any wrinkles that might have occurred. His hair shined in the light. Whatever Blaise had used, Hadrian should probably start using it too instead of water. It rippled like a smooth and perfect thick wave.

He linked arms with Blaise as Cassius and Marcus moved ahead of them. Theo at Draco’s side. Everyone had soon joined them. Why couldn’t the hat have sorted him into Slytherin? He’d have given anything.

Hadrian did his best to memorize the path they took from the dungeons. Graham was explaining to all of the various ways to leave as they made their way. The paths were near endless and it was real easy even as an older year to become lost in the dungeons. “But there’s always a toad around to help you get to where you’re going.”

“I did wonder how everyone was getting from one end of the castle to the other,” Theo confessed. “Especially with the Headmaster forbidding magic in the corridors.”

“Can he really do that? Seems counterproductive. How are we to practice between classes?” Draco asked incredulously.

“I don’t think anyone has followed that rule ever,” Adrian assured. “Even the strictest of rule mongers would inherently forget that rule existed. It’s rarely enforced too.”

Hadrian still didn’t know what the difference was between the Entrance Hall and the Central Hall, they were in two different places but they both had entrances and exits. Even after only a day the two ran together in his mind. Students were milling about the halls from all houses. Some were walking with their noses in parchment. He noted some portraits on the walls playing music as students passed on by.

There really was a lot to see and Hadrian had barely scratched the surface of the Grand Staircase. Now that Hadrian wasn’t overwhelmed with culture shock, he could take in his surroundings.

Cassius and Marcus pushed their way through the Great Hall double doors. Students were moving up and down the aisles. Hadrian was led past Hufflepuff to Slytherin. He ignored any looks he received from those in his house.

He was soon snug between Draco and Blaise, Cassius and Marcus sat in front of him with everyone else spreading out. Several Slytherins greeted Hadrian kindly. Parkinson and Bulstrode were just sulking in their seats with bowls of oatmeal before them.

Hadrian had just taken a bite of his syrup laden pancakes that had been passed down to him by Daphne via Blaise when Hadrian saw the teachers, or rather Head of Houses, start moving toward them.

Marcus was as usual talking about Quidditch. Practice was starting the next morning and the pitch had been reserved for the first hour and then three hours after class. Hadrian was pleased when he learned that Marcus had been made Captain. The teen had only been informed last night, apparently Snape forgot to confirm who would be captain of the team until yesterday when giving his welcome speech. Everyone was talking about it. Draco groused again about first years being unable to be on the team and how unfair it was.

“I guess I should go get my schedule.” He wasn’t ready to get up yet. He took another bite of his pancakes.

“Go get it so we can compare,” Theo encouraged. “I grabbed mine first thing this morning. Professor Flitwick had them in the common room before five o’ clock.” He held out his only for Draco to snatch it to read it over.

Hadrian nodded and rose before Slytherin’s Head of House could reach their table. He crossed over as Madam Spout reached the Hufflepuff table.

“Good morning, Hadrian,” said Cedric.

Hadrian nodded. “Morning.”

“You can sit with us, you know,” encouraged Susan.

“Wanted to catch up with my friends,” he said instead.

“But Slytherins aren’t friends,” said someone at the table only for Cedric to sigh and chastise them. “No, you know it’s true, Cedric. They don’t have friends, only people they consider allies to their ambitions.”

Hadrian waved them off and reached the plump lady. “May I get my schedule please?”

“Mr. Rookwood, right?” she asked with a wide smile that showed the rose on her cheeks.

“Yes, madam.” She pulled his schedule out. “Cheers.” He took his schedule and made his way back to his friends.

“I don’t get it.” He thought he heard Jonah Parnell hissed. “What’s with the lost and their insistence on always making the wrong choice?”

“That’s not for you to decide, Jonah…”

Hadrian resisted visually shuddering as he quickly made his way around Blaise. His hand swept along the boy’s back and through some of his braids as he sat back down. Blaise took his schedule from him before he could read it himself. Hadrian felt the Slytherin Head of House stop near Draco. He also felt eyes on him, but didn’t bother looking up.

“Oh look we have Defense, Transfiguration, and History of Magic together. Wait… we all have History of Magic at the same time. All years. I wonder why that is.”

“It’s a useless subject that’s why,” Marcus grunted. “Binns is a worthless ghost.”

“How can a ghost teach?” Hadrian wondered. “And he teaches everyone at once?”

“He can’t teach,” Cassius snorted. “Mostly we hang out, read on our own, or do independent study.”

“What do I have with Ravenclaws?” Hadrian asked.

“Potions and Charms. You have Herbology with the Gryffindors,” Blaise rattled off. “Astronomy looks like it is with all houses.”

“That’s because it’s at midnight. They only want to be blamed for one sleepless night after all,” said Terry.

Hadrian couldn’t help but wonder how the teachers had time to teach every single one in different blocks. He did notice he only had three subjects that day. Transfiguration and then History of Magic with a small break in between those two and then lunch. He would have Potions after lunch.

“What are your electives?” Hadrian asked Graham.

“I chose Ancient Runes and Arithmancy, like Marcus. I’m hoping Marcus will be willing to help me out. I really regret agreeing to Arithmancy though. I never did well when your father talked about the subject,” he confessed. “But Father insisted I not take Divination because the one teaching the subject is a lunatic.”

“Ask me nicely and I might,” said Marcus.

“Understatement,” said Adrian darkly. “I thought it would be a neat subject. No one told me. Our electives are with all houses since sometimes you get only one or two students from a house in the class. I’m the only bloody Slytherin. Care of Magical Creatures isn’t too bad with Professor Kettleburn. I’m taking that with Cassius.”

“I thought about taking the same classes as Graham,” Terry pipped in, “but I’m not great with runes so I went for Arithmancy and Care.”

“At least you don’t have to deal with the nonsense from last year.” Cassius’ face wrinkled in disgust.

“What happened?” Hadrian asked.

“All Slytherins, third year and up, were forced to take Muggle Studies despite none of us checking it off when choosing electives. We were forced to sit through a semester of it before the Board got it sorted and those who wanted to could drop it. Which was everyone.”

“Father says the school has gone downhill ever since Dippet left,” said Draco with a sniff. “A lot of subjects were taken out. All for Muggleborn sensibilities!”

“There even used to be Etiquette Classes for all first years,” Daphne, who heard them talking, piped in. “But apparently it offended too many.” She smiled dryly at the fleet of eyerolls that comment induced.

“I can think of some Purebloods who could do with a refresh,” Cassius’ eyes found Crabbe and Goyle. They had egg hanging off their chins. Everyone rippled with shudders and turned away.

“Selection is their problem,” Daphne said, smirking and making everyone but Hadrian laugh because he didn’t know what that meant. Her eyes cast across Bulstrode who was whispering with Parkinson.

“Guess thicker the blood the deeper in,” Marcus drawled causing Cassius and several older years to nearly spit out their drinks and clasp a hand to their mouths.

Hadrian didn’t get it.

“Alright, everyone. Looks like I have a free period first thing,” Adrian stated. “Who has letters to send? I’ll take them to the owlery.”

“Oh, I forgot to write to Dad and Dolphy.” Hadrian frowned.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart, you can send him something this afternoon instead.” Cassius said as Adrian collected letters from some of the others before shooing everyone to go get their things for class.

Hadrian dreaded going back to Hufflepuff to sort out his books and get his things. Blaise suggested he call his house-elf, but Hadrian didn’t want to do that in front of anyone and chance they see him. At least not so soon.

He didn’t care about being seen as the odd one out, that was fine with Hadrian. But he didn’t want to draw any more attention than he already had with the way he left that morning. If Justin had been a Pureblood, he’d have gone and apologized for being rude. But the kid probably didn’t notice, so Hadrian wasn’t bothering.

Cassius suggested one of them come with him and wait, but Hadrian shook his head. “It’s fine, Cass. You can’t be late to your own classes.”

“Do you know the way from there?” asked Terry.

“I think so. Not a clue where Transfiguration is though.”

“Meet us in Central Hall then,” said Marcus, leaving no room for argument.

A handsome Ravenclaw boy came over to get Theo. Marcus rolled his eyes and muttered. “Davies. Roger Davies. He’s on the Ravenclaw Quidditch team and bloody annoying,” he told Hadrian who glanced at him questionably.

Once in the dungeons, they all separated. He ignored the eyes of the older boys watching him intently as he went through the gated portcullis down the hall toward the barrels. Right, tune and knock! He thought. He wasn’t in the mood to be the one sprayed with vile substances.

He breathed a sigh of relief when the lid of the barrel slid up for him just as most of the Hufflepuffs came around having gone the way of the Grand Staircase. A cat crossed his path as he made his way through the room and toward the boy’s hall. He hoped to get in and out before Parnell could grace him with his presence.

“You look like you’re on a mission,” Cedric caught up to him from nowhere. “You seemed haggard this morning, Hadrian.”

“Sort of,” said Hadrian. “I want in and out before Parnell shows up. I guess I can’t count his presence as an emergency and get a new room? I’ll sleep on the floor if I have to.” He was pleased that his chest didn’t start to hurt or that the magic didn’t stifle him like it had that morning. He could still feel the difference though, especially after spending time in Slytherin.

Cedric chuckled. “I think all the rooms are full. Audrey had to deal with a lot of students complaining about the room shuffle. You’ll be fine. He’ll quiet down once he’s found a new target.”

“Hm.” He chose not to comment because it might upset Cedric’s sweetness. Cedric grinned almost as if he could read Hadrian’s thoughts. Hadrian scowled at him and the boy outright laughed. “Shut up,” he mimicked Draco only to get more chuckles as people looked over at the two of them. “Away with you.” He disappeared one way as Cedric laughed while going the other.

He was relieved to find that the room was empty. Last night he had not noticed many of the intricate details of the room. Each of the bed-sides had a gorgeous maple set of drawers, two bedside tables framed the four poster beds and a mirror sat over the drawers. Each side also had a cushy tufted armchair. Hadrian’s was golden while Parnell’s was brown. A foot rest sat in front of it so you could sit and read rather than laying in bed, reading. If Hadrian could stand being in the house more than a few hours at a time, he might have thought to take advantage of that.

Hadrian grabbed his gorgeous monogrammed white stag leather bag with black stitching. It had two drawstrings on the front and a silver clasp that closed the largest part. It wasn’t large and it fit perfectly against Hadrian’s back. It held more than it looked and it was resistant to the elements. Cissa had picked it up for him after their Diagon Alley trip. Draco had a reverse mate to it that was black with white stitching.

Hadrian decided to simply grab all his books for the rest of the day so that he didn’t have to come back at lunch. He sat the bag on his bed and tried not to stiffen when the door opened to allow Parnell to come sweeping through.

Hadrian checked and selected from his notebooks. He had decided to color code them, one to each subject so that it was all in order. He made sure the quills and ink he received from Lucius were secure in their cases. He would hate to have the ink spill somehow or the quills bend. Quills couldn’t be charmed much without risk of hurting the feathers, particularly the more expensive magical creature feathers.

He was pleased that Parnell didn’t seem to want to talk or acknowledge him. He double checked that he didn’t need to take anything else with him for class. He then decided to grab some extra clothes and put them in the bag under his books. Just in case. As he slammed the trunk closed the clasps automatically sealed it.

Soon Hadrian was out the door and making his way to the exit.

“Are you going to always eat with the Slytherins?” Ernie boldly asked when he came through the common room. “You could sit and chat with us instead. Get to know us and all.”

“No house is going to separate me and my friends, Macmillan. They were my friends long before I became a Hufflepuff.”

Ernie frowned. “That’s not how it’s supposed to work.”

“Good luck with that logic.” Hadrian didn’t bother to hang around any longer. He laughed softly when he found Cassius waiting for him leaning against a barrel opposite of the large barrel.

“You didn’t have to do that, Cass.”

“I know,” said Cassius, pushing off the barrel and wrapping his arm around Hadrian’s slim shoulders. “You staying with us tonight?”

“You bet. I brought my clothes and anything else I’ll need for tomorrow.” He wondered where Marcus happened to be, they weren’t usually separated. “How did you know?”

“Know?”

“I’d be a Hufflepuff.”

Cassius smirked. “How could I not, Hadrian? Marcus knew. I don’t think the others did though. Most were thinking you’d be Ravenclaw like your father.”

“The hat said I could go anywhere,” Hadrian told him. “I fit into all houses. It seriously seemed to consider Gryffindor and I told it in no uncertain terms that I would refuse to go there.”

“Yes, I can see that, but you have a deep sense of loyal friendship. You also have a warmth that defies what we’re supposed to be. Most people see what they want to see and never look further. They have come to expect a kind of certainty but you take that certainty and throw it out the window.” Hadrian tucked himself into Cassius, enjoying the touch between them. “Just look at your wand, sweetheart. No one would guess a Dark alignment had a wand that looked like that. You defy expectations.”

“I haven't done much yet. I still don’t understand things like the jokes and stuff you guys sometimes say. Like what did Daphne mean and what was Marcus’ joke?”

Cassius grinned. “You’ll find out.”

Hadrian huffed at him. “See! You won’t tell me.”

“Got to let you discover it on your own,” he chuckled. “Or Blaise will tell you, the little bastard. He keeps trying to corrupt you.” He squeezed Hadrian as they took the dungeon stairs to the double doors.

It took a second for Hadrian’s eyes to adjust to the lighting differences between the dungeons and the ground level. So much light was spilling in from the windows and the wide open entrance doors. He could see the green courtyard beyond them as students were running in and out. One Ravenclaw ran out and then let out a shout before running back in talking about scales she’d forgotten.

Everyone was waiting just outside in the courtyard. “Transfiguration isn’t that far. Just a courtyard over under the trellis from Central Hall.” Cassius directed them.

Professor McGonagall was a stern and highly intelligent witch, and Hadrian was extra impressed by the cat animagus transformation that she showed off. She scared the dung right out of Macmillan and Justin when they came rushing through late and looking frazzled. A funny day when Hadrian liked a Muggleborn better than Pureblood. He’d never admit that out loud.

Hadrian was the only 'Puff sitting on the Slytherin side of the room. He was nestled between Draco and Blaise respectively with Daphne right behind him, Lili behind Blaise, and an olive skinned girl with long shiny black hair behind Draco. Hadrian would learn later that her name was Tracy Davis. A relatively unknown girl who didn’t talk much. He couldn’t tell what her alignment was yet. In Hogwarts it was sometimes hard to tell. So many varieties of magic were constantly flowing all around him, not to mention that breathtaking Ancient Magic that continued to kiss at the back of his neck.

Davis could be Neutral or Muggleborn. It was rare, but his father mentioned that Muggleborns could get into Slytherin. But only if they had great potential or developed a Dark alignment, which happened once nearly 200 years previously. His father explained that some Muggleborns were actually from Squib lines. His father didn’t really know how to classify these magicals, admittedly. He didn’t want to call them Muggleborns, but what else would you describe them as? Squibborns just sounded weird.

Hadrian had never really been in the presence of so many Muggleborns. Sure the few times they had gone to Diagon Alley and Gringotts there were likely a few around, but never this many and for so long. He found it startling how much of a contrast there was between those raised in the magical world and those in the Muggle. Most of the Muggleborns and some Halfbloods were wide-eyed and bushy tailed. Most seemed friendly, but they would get unsettled real quickly when their surroundings did not match the Muggle world or their preconceived notions of what a magical world was supposed to be. Blaise had whispered to him once about the Muggles’ ideas of what magic and ‘fantasy’ were. Whole books and something called films and video games were made with it in mind. Hadrian didn’t bother to ask about what a film or video game happened to be. It would never be important to him.

There were a lot of rules in Transfiguration, Hadrian was coming to find. He was glad that this father had gone over a majority of them with him over the years. One did not have a Ravenclaw parent and not learn the theory of every subject at some point growing up. Draco was the only one who actively struggled between the three of them in changing his match to a needle. He remembered Adrian showing them the spell after his first year at Hogwarts. While it was against the law to cast magic outside of school, magicals growing up in Pureblood manors and homes tended to have an exception. There was simply too much magic going on everyday in the home to bother trying to single out magical signatures.

Parkinson didn’t seem too good at it either, Bulstrode managed but the needle kept bending and not a single Muggleborn could figure it out. Everyone else had made good progress by the end of the class, but only Hadrian, Blaise, and Hannah Abbott managed to have a shiny needle. Susan Bones wasn’t too far behind with a silver needle, but her’s didn’t have the metallic shine McGonagall was expecting. First day of class and they received their first homework assignment. Professor McGonagall seemed very disappointed by the shoddy display in Transfiguration by most students.

“Theo is going to enjoy this class,” Draco muttered to them when McGonagall called the end to the class, and reminded them of their homework due date. Least they had a few days before it was due.

“I’m better at doing than theory,” said Hadrian. “Dad had to come up with creative ways to get me to pay attention when he was lecturing or going into some theory.”

“Looks like next is History of Magic for everyone. Least we have a break before then.”

“It’s going to take the whole break just to get there,” said Draco. “Graham told me it was around through the courtyard doors on the right and further out than most of the other classes.”

“That seems like such a roundabout way to go there.” Blaise frowned. “Surely there’s a path inside the school. For rainy or snowy days at least if not for convenience sake.”

“Must be because of that corridor being closed.” Hadrian suggested with a shrug.

“Draco! You should walk me to class!” Parkinson seemed to choose that moment to try and saddle up to them. She was beaming at him as Draco looked at her flatly. “You want to hold my books for me like a gentleman?”

Hadrian smirked deviously and then he grabbed his books and plonked them into Draco’s arms. “Good idea, Parkinson. Thanks, Draco!” Hadrian kissed him on the cheek.

Normally, Draco would whine about the display and having to carry anything, but the look on Parkinson’s face was priceless. Daphne started laughing followed by Lili.

Blaise cackled and pulled both of them. “Come on, this way!” All of them ran a bit ahead of Parkinson, leaving her sulking and whining at all once. Hadrian took his books back when they rounded the corner.

“I don’t get it, if all the years take part in this History of Magic, how do we learn anything new the following year?” Hadrian asked.

“Like Cassius said, we don’t,” said Draco. “I don’t mind having a useless subject to relax in.”

“Only the fifth years have a separate class for History of Magic without the other years. I guess that’s because of the OWLs. Adrian told me that sixth and seventh years rarely ever take History of Magic. Mostly ‘Claws, but they tend to opt out of History of Magic for more than any other electives,” Blaise informed him.

It was bound to happen, in their bid to get away from Parkinson they got a bit turned around. They ended up in the belltower by accident by going through a door they thought would take them the right way.

“Where are we?” asked Draco as he looked around. They had gone up multiple flights of steps by now. Some outside, some inside, through doors that had new doors, arches that turned into doors when they went through. Oh and a snarky portrait that called out to them rudely.

“Why doesn’t the school supply us with a map?” Hadrian bit out. “This is ridiculous. How is anyone supposed to find their way?”

Blaise didn’t bother answering.

Most of the portraits weren’t all that helpful either. Many snored in their paintings. Some complained and others sent them in a completely opposite direction.

That was when a pearly white ghost came flying through the wall. He was very tall and looked like something out of the middle ages. His ghostly hair was curly and he had a mustache. His front shined silver and he had a belt with a rapier hanging from it.

“That’s the Bloody Baron, he never talks to students. He’s the Slytherin House Ghost,” Draco supplied to Hadrian nervously. Even Blaise took a step back trying to take Hadrian with him.

Hadrian waved them off. “Excuse me, Lord Baron! Can you please help us?” He stepped into the ghost’s path causing him to stop abruptly and look down at him. “Please sir? We’re trying to get to the History of Magic classroom.”

“Hadrian, he’s not going to help or answer. We were all warned about that,” Draco told him. “He’s never once spoken as far as anyone is concerned. Even my father says he’s never spoken.”

That was when the Baron bowed to Hadrian who bowed back respectfully. The ghost then turned and his coattails seemed to beckon them. “Come on!”

“Whoa…” Draco gasped, but neither he nor Blaise argued and they ran after Hadrian as doors flew open for them as the Baron went through them.

“Are you sure he’s leading us to where we need to go?” Blaise asked hesitantly.

“Better than standing in one spot turning around in circles.”

“Not sure about that,” whispered Draco with a huff.

Oddly enough they weren’t all that far from History of Magic. Hadrian didn’t know how they’d done it but they were actually a floor away inside of one of the many towers. The Baron took them down a hall, one unfortunately covered in cobwebbed and smelled old and musty. Blaise nearly jumped when a shiny suit of armor smacked its neighbor who had been humming incessantly.

The Baron stopped at a door and Hadrian heard people on the other side. He bowed to Hadrian who smiled and bowed back. “We thank you, Lord Baron.”

He looked at Hadrian with hollow silver eyes. He did not smile or seemed to acknowledge his words and then. “You are welcome, Heir Rookwood.” His voice was deep and gravely, unctuous in a way that they’d never heard as he floated up through the ceiling and away.

“Bloody hell, he spoke!” Draco gasped.

“Maybe people just weren’t using their manners when speaking to him,” said Hadrian logically.

“Maybe he only speaks to Purebloods, but some are so haughty and full of themselves they believe speaking to a ghost below them,” Blaise pointed out and Draco sniffed.

“So what, aren’t they?” Hadrian gave Draco a flat stare at the question.

“Remember, they were still human once. Just because they’re dead doesn’t really change that. Come on, let’s get inside.” Hadrian pulled the door open and shooed Blaise and Draco through first.

As the classroom was nestled in what looked like the center of the tower, the room was large, round, and impossibly tall. It looked like stadium seating had been installed, forming multiple rings around the whole room with spaces for aisles in each cardinal direction. At the very center on the ground floor was a snoring ghost in a cushy armchair with a book on his lap.

All the students from the four first years were gathered in various places around the room. Most of the sections looked to be naturally divided by house. There were a few places where you could see the colorful robes mixing. On the far side of the room, Hadrian could see a small cluster of reds and golds with one blue robe. Most of the older students had claimed spots at the highest point beneath a very tall catwalk that linked with a thin staircase starting near the door that went higher up. Hadrian thought he heard creaking up there somewhere.

Only a few students were quiet and reading studiously, but the rest were just doing whatever they wanted to do. A few Hufflepuff students were even playing chess. A couple of Gryffindors, identical twins, were chasing each other around with a dreadlocked black boy. They were running circles around the sleeping ghost who did not notice one bit.

Hadrian could hear the Muggleborn girl, Granger huffing. “This is entirely ridiculous! How are we supposed to learn! What are you boys doing?!” But her complaints went ignored.

A game of exploding snap could be heard going off near her and Hadrian spotted the young Weasley boy and Finnegan with a black boy. Weasley’s face was covered in soot and the nearby Gryffindors were laughing.

Hadrian soon spotted some of the older Slytherin boys and Theo. They were already sitting along the top level. They waved for the three to join them up top and Draco quickly found the nearest aisle that would get the three up fastest.

“Looks like we won’t get points taken or detention for being late,” Blaise hissed following Hadrian.

Graham was the closest when they reached the top and he curled around Hadrian’s slim waist, drawing him down on his lap instead of in the seat beside him. Hadrian greeted him with a kiss to the cheek. “I’d ask what we missed but I don’t think that’s relevant.”

“No. He fell asleep mid sentence,” Adrian said as Draco and Blaise moved to sit where spots were made for them.

“Where’s Marcus and Cass?” Hadrian immediately noticed they were not present.

“They went looking for you,” said Terry. “Cassius got really worried when you didn’t show up on time. He started muttering about what if you got caught up in the third floor corridor that was out of bounds. When we saw you come in Adrian sent a note out the window to find them. They’ll be here soon.”

“You won’t believe what happened,” said Draco. “We were totally and completely lost from shoddy directions and Hadrian managed to get the Bloody Baron to help us.”

“He! Talked!” Blaise added while tapping the table in emphasis, causing mouths to drop open.

“You’re kidding!?” Adrian’s voice raised fractionally.

“No. I’m not.”

“I just asked respectfully,” Hadrian waved off.

“He’s never spoken,” said Graham.

“Are you really surprised by now?” Terry chuckled. “It’s Hadrian. How do you say no to those eyes?” Nearly everyone agreed. Hadrian stuck out his tongue.

“He does have gorgeous eyes and I should know,” said Blaise, chuckling. He had been discussing the Transfiguration class with Theo, letting the boy know what to expect.

“Yours are gorgeous too. Purple is far more rarer than green,” Hadrian pointed out, sitting himself so that he was angled a bit in Graham’s lap and swooped an arm around Graham’s neck.

“Emerald, Hadrian, not just any old green. Blaise always looks like he’s about to seduce someone or he has an inner joke that only he knows about but you suspect that the joke involves a lot of naked skin,” Adrian chuckled.

“Wow, Adrian, I am impressed!” Blaise said in mock shock. “I thought Graham was the one who had the seer blood in him.”

“You don’t have to be a seer to see the obvious.”

“I think I see why now all the students are clumped together in this room. It’s to give the teachers a break,” Hadrian said, glancing once more at the mayhem in the room. Wads of parchment were zooming through the room. Someone turned one wad of paper into a fireball, causing a couple of students to yelp as it landed too close to them. Someone else quickly sprayed it with water.

“Hadrian! There you are, your year mates were looking for you.” Hadrian looked down a few rows to see Cedric standing in an empty section. “They said you disappeared after Transfiguration and were worried.”

“Yes, I was in discussion with my friends when we left the class.” Hadrian nodded in acknowledgement of the other Hufflepuff.

“Have you gotten to know them well?” At Hadrian’s questioning look, Cedric continued. “Your fellow 'Puffs. Ernie was really looking forward to speaking with you more.”

“Buzz off, Diggory.” Adrian interrupted him, “can’t you see that we were in the middle of our own discussion?”

“Pucey, don’t you think that Hadrian should spend time getting to know his new housemates? He’s going to be with us for the next seven years after all.” Cedric frowned.

“It’s not a surprise, Cedric, look at how they have him trapped?” Another Hufflepuff said, coming to stand next to Cedric. Hadrian didn’t remember the boy’s name from when Cedric introduced his friends last night. “Come now Snakes, let our ‘Puff go. He doesn’t need you corrupting him.”

“You think we’re keeping him trapped here?” Graham asked with a smirk.

“Obviously.”

Hadrian frowned when Graham’s arms left his waist. “There, if he’d like to leave he is more than welcome to. However, I can assure you that Hadrian is perfectly safe, healthy, and welcome to be with us whenever he wants.”

“I don’t want to move, I’m too comfortable.” Hadrian put both arms around Graham. “I have seven years to get to know everyone else. But these boys are everything to me.” With a smirk, Graham put his arms back around Hadrian.

A shiver ran down his spine when a hand brushed along the back of his shoulder blade and up his neck. “There you are, sweetheart.”

“It shouldn’t matter to you, Diggory,” Marcus grunted as Cassius spared him a flat look.

“You should learn to mind your manners,” said Cassius. “He is where he wants to be.”

“I am,” said Hadrian. “We’re fine. Sorry for making you worry.” He threw at Cassius who leaned over to press a kiss to his forehead.

“He was chatting with Barons. You know how he can be,” Graham replied.

Most of the ‘Puffs wandered back to their own places, but Cedric kept shooting him concerned looks. A couple of other houses were glancing at them curiously. He was going to go out on a limb and guess that Hufflepuff and Slytherin did not interact much.

Marcus made a sixth year Slytherin girl who kept the class move so they could take seats near him. With a sniff, she gathered the parchment she had been working on and moved a few seats down.

“What’s that?” asked Cassius, focusing his attention on them.

“Hadrian and the Bloody Baron.”

“It’s not that shocking, Graham. Stop exaggerating!”

“I’m not. I don’t think you realize that the other ghosts have even said that he has not acknowledged a single student for as long as they’ve all been here. He sometimes acknowledges the Headmaster and Deputy Headmistress, but rarely.” Blaise summarized their trip for Cassius and Marcus, embellishing a little about how lost they had gotten before being rescued by the ghost.

“We figured that. I think they put History of Magic over here along with Muggle Studies because of how pointless both of them are, and the other teachers want to forget it exists,” said Cassius.

“So, is this all we do in this class? I am all for downtime, but I don’t really want to disappoint Dad if I fail an exam.”

“It’s goblin wars. You’ll hear it a thousand times before the end of the year on one of his awake days,” Marcus offered.

“He’s stuck on the tale of Ranrok,” said Cassius. “But we still don’t understand a word because he starts his sentence and then stops randomly. So we just remember names.”

“I know all about Ranrok,” said Hadrian, softly. “He is the reason that Feldcroft was destroyed. He and his army, composed of many goblins and even wizards, were digging for a darker form of Ancient Magic all around Hogsmeade Valley. Ranrok had gotten a hold of some form of Ancient Magic. Isadora…ah… Morganach was a Keeper who used her powers to steal negative emotions, pain in particular. She used it as her own power source. I think she’s one of the reasons that hags and banshees feed off pain and nightmares. She would steal your pain in whatever form it was in. She hid the stored Ancient Magic in mine shafts and mountainsides all over the valley. A goblin cannot touch that source of magic unless it corrupts completely. I don’t know why though. I’m thinking because they have their own brand and mixing them causes instability. Most wizards followed him only because of the power he possessed.”

“Now that’s a History lesson,” Adrian chuckled.

“Can you repeat that?” asked the Slytherin sixth year that Marcus made move down. “I’m aiming for a career that requires good scores on History NEWTs.”

Hadrian did but he articulated it a bit better. “Ranrok and his rebellion was one of the first history lessons I got from Dad.” Mostly because it involved their own family. His father wanted him to know the history: the good, the bad, and the ugly. However he did not mention Victor Rookwood’s involvement. No need to besmirch his own family name. “My dad can send us precise dates of everything related to that time along with other relevant names. If you want I’ll pass them over.” She bobbed her head and ducked back into her work after a hasty thanks.

Theo was reading through the History of Magic textbook while taking notes and it bothered him with how ignorant this generation was going to be about their history. Fun and games were all well and good until it ruined a generation.

“This isn’t right,” Hadrian settled back against Graham.

“No, it’s not,” Cassius agreed.

“No one’s going to know anything about our history, which means we’re going to get some repetition in the coming decades.”

“I heard we already are,” said Adrian. He and Terry were drawing on some parchment until Blaise muscled in and started making crude and vulgar drawings, getting everyone laughing. He started off by making lots of small penises over the sheet before drawing a large one in detail in the corner. All of them laughed while rolling their eyes. As if that wasn’t shocking enough, Blaise then began on something else that looked like a cross between a mouth and a wide hole with a lot of what was supposed to be curly hair but it was vertical rather than horizontal. It had a weird opening causing the older boys to laugh only to start groaning when he began to draw teeth inside the odd opening.

“Why did you have to draw that with teeth?” Terry squawked and Hadrian looked at the art and was confused by it.

Blaise didn’t answer. Just grinned as he continued on making Adrian shudder. “Mate, come on! That’s horrible. If my mother sees that she’s going to have a fit.”

“What is it?” Hadrian asked, perplexed at the shape. He supposed it had to be a body part based on their reactions, but that was no body part he’d ever seen. Blaise began to draw a weird wide tongue sticking out of the opening and shaded black around it drawing more laughter.

“Ya should make it wider,” Marcus input.

“Any wider and there won’t be parchment left on the sheet, Marcus. Besides, I highly doubt there is any endowment there to be seen.”

“I didn’t say it was going to be natural.” Everyone burst out laughing but Hadrian, Draco, and Theo who exchanged confused looks with one another.

“Don’t look at that!” Cassius scowled and placed a hand over Hadrian’s eyes causing the boy to huff and try to bring it down.

Blaise cackled. “You can’t keep him innocent forever.”

“Watch me.”

“Sure, you’re a hot bloke. I’ll watch you anytime,” said Blaise. “There…”

Graham snickered against Hadrian’s neck. “He certainly knows what a cock is at least.”

“Graham!” Cassius hissed.

“A cock?” Hadrian queried.

“Penis,” said Blaise with a grin. “It’s another word for a penis, but better and hotter.”

“Oh.”

“Shut the fuck up, Zabini!” Marcus snapped.

“Make me big boy.” Marcus glowered at him. “His dad may have asked me to take things slow, but he has to learn sometime. You guys haven’t been making much progress on that.”

“Zabini…” Cassius’ voice dipped low into cutting territory.

Blaise rolled his eyes, but he didn’t continue. Hadrian was beginning to hate being left out of obvious conversations.

“Least I’m not the one in trouble,” Graham snickered.

“Oh, we’ll have words later, Montague,” said Cassius, crisply. “Don’t you doubt that.”

“You just drew an accurate depiction of Bulstrode,” Marcus quipped, getting snickers going again. Graham, Terry, and Adrian began to make heaving noises. Hadrian finally brought down Cassius’ hand and lightly bit him on the thumb. Cassius pinched his side in return and then grabbed the parchment and flipped it over.

“Ignore them, sweetheart.”

“One of these days…” Hadrian grumbled. He was going to figure out these obvious dirty jokes, and he was going to throw them in their faces with even worse ones. Did they not realize that little boys grew up and became fiendish monsters? At least that’s what his dad always said.

His dad, as usual, was often right.

Lunchtime arrived and Graham, Adrian, and Terry agreed to take everyone’s things and switch them for the next classes. Hadrian had brought all of his books so thankfully he didn’t need to make a stop at Hufflepuff.

Hadrian sat in the Great Hall at Slytherin’s table again as Blaise and Draco clamored on either side of him. Theo had to switch his books and had split off early since Ravenclaw was located in a tower. Starving, Hadrian began his lunch with a good handful of fruit and some salad with fresh vegetables. Draco handed him the proper fork without question. He thanked the boy as he dug into it.

“Oh -” said Draco looking up at the sky. “I wondered why the owls didn’t arrive this morning with mail.”

“Probably because it was the first day and no one had time to respond to anything sent last night,” said Blaise as hundreds of owls and other creatures with wings flew down to greet many students from all houses.

Marcus and Cassius took their seats just as a swarm of owls passed them by. Just about everyone received owls. Blaise’s owl was almost pure gold in its feathering but really it was just an unusual brown shade for a rather stately hawk owl. Draco’s was a snotty little screech owl with extra long tufts above its eyes. He had packages ranging from fudge to a couple things that he’d forgotten back home. He saw Cassius receive some ‘cookies’, American style biscuits, before his dad’s great horned owl stopped in front of him with a clever hoot.

“Hello, Sir Ajax.” Sir Ajax would do nothing for you or answer to you if you didn’t call him Sir. How his father had trained it, Hadrian didn’t know. But he thought it was great as he stroked the creature, gave him a bite of bacon that had made its way into his salad, and then relieved the letters and packaging.

He opened the packaging enough to see what his dad sent him. It was one of his silent stuffed animals! Seems like his dad realized he had forgotten to take one. He didn’t have time to read the letter yet as a flash of white feathers caught his attention. He gasped before he could stifle it when he saw that beautiful owl from Diagon Alley flying through the room.

She was instantly recognizable, so beautiful and graceful. Her white wings were more beautiful than the first snowfall around Feldcroft before the elements and creatures could get to it. An undisturbed snow white.

“Who got her?” Hadrian asked.

“Is that the owl you were looking at so much?” Blaise asked.

Hadrian nodded faintly and then grew puzzled when he realized the owl was coming toward their table. She seemed keen to get closer and closer with such an elegant grace.

To his stunned surprise, she stopped in front of him, flapping and hooting. She had a card on her foot. “Hello there.” He held out his fingers carefully and she moved her feathery head along them. So soft as he stroked her down the wing and back up to her head.

“Gosh what a beautiful creature,” said a Slytherin from down the table.

“Don’t let your mother hear you say gosh.”

“She’s not here.”

He took the card from her foot and he snapped his head up to see Marcus smirking at him. He recognized the perfect block writing. Marcus had the steadiest hands and you’d never guess that he could write well and do calligraphy so beautifully.

“Happy Birthday. A little late. I hope she makes up for it.”

“You-?” Hadrian gawked. “Oh, she’s absolutely lovely. I saw her that day in Diagon Alley.” he stroked her lovingly as she moved to perch on his shoulder and dipped her beak into his melon water. “She was hard to look away from.”

“Seems she likes you,”Cassius smirked. “Fits you.”

“Well, I know where I need to go - this way!” said Blaise, scooting down away from Hadrian so that Marcus could go around to the other side and fit between them. “I can’t top that.” Everyone moved to make room as Marcus sank down heavily beside him.

Hadrian beamed up at him. “Thank you.”

“No.” He stroked Hadrian’s silky black hair. It was his way of apologizing. Again.

“Fully forgiven.”

“What about me?” asked Cass, with a sly smile.

Hadrian slipped his fingers inside of his robes and shirt to pull on the chain. “What do you think?” He cuddled up against Marcus as he took turns stroking her and eating his food.

Sometimes, she’d take a bit of bacon out of his salad. He most definitely didn’t mind. She felt warm and comfortable on his shoulder.

“Just what the bloody hell is so special about him?” No one answered Pansy Parkinson who was way down at the end with Bulstrode, Crabbe, and Goyle.

Despite the hiccups of that morning, it’d been a wonderful first day at Hogwarts.

“I’ll bet I know who he’s sleeping with tonight,” said Blaise. “Steal my thunder, why don’t you, Marcus.”

Marcus grinned, showing his teeth, which he rarely did. “Count on it, Zabini.” He took a grape tomato from Hadrian’s salad and tossed it into his mouth with satisfaction. That was when Hadrian noticed up at the staff table the Head of Slytherin and the Headmaster were looking directly at them.

What were they looking at?

Chapter Text

Chapter Eleven

“Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.”

― Thomas Jefferson

Classes were hit and miss at Hogwarts, Hadrian came to find out real quick. Herbology was great. He liked all the plants, particularly the more ferocious ones. He wasn’t sure if Weasley and Finnegan enjoyed it though when a venomous tentacula tried to swallow Weasley’s head at one point.

“Be lucky that she’s an infant and hasn’t gotten all her teeth, young lad!” Professor Sprout quipped as she stroked the plant causing it to release Ronald Weasley, who was now covered in a sticky substance that had every Gryffindor and Hadrian snickering. Most of the Hufflepuff’s were concerned for him and wondered if he was okay. Ernie didn’t find it funny and chastised Hadrian for making fun of what could be a dangerous situation. Hadrian only smiled and tickled the vine of the tentacula making her preen with obvious pleasure.

Defense was catastrophically bad. The small witch who was ‘the Professor’ was old, tended to forget what chapter they were on, and couldn’t remember anyone’s name. Blaise became Bradley. Draco became Donald somehow and Pansy became Patty. She liked to first name everyone, which unsettled all of the Slytherins. He was only happy that she hadn’t messed with his name. Blaise teased Draco hours later calling him Donald until Draco threw hexes at him until one actually landed, despite Blaise’s dodging laughter.

She seemed to completely forget that the other half of students existed, even the Muggleborns like Justin. Despite the fact she proudly proclaimed herself to be a ‘First Generation’ Muggleborn making Hadrian wonder how she couldn’t understand that all Muggleborns were ‘first generation’. Yeah, she was useless.

Hadrian and all the boys could be seen in the massive library after classes looking over the lesson plans that Hadrian’s dad sent over for them all. It was easy to read about History and learn. It was all you did, but Defense was something that wasn’t so easily taught with simple words. He’d even heard Granger was disappointed.

“Doesn’t seem very professional. I was hoping to learn something on the first day. Even the theory behind a spell or two,” she told one of the Patil twins and Neville Longbottom who followed at her heels because Weasley, Smith, Finnegan, and Thomas seemed to form their own Gryffindor boys foursome. Weasley and Smith together were the worst, they barely paid attention and were the first to be landed with detention in class.

Hadrian only knew this because the Weasley twins had come blowing through the Great Hall to congratulate their little brother on holding the second highest record for getting a detention so soon. One of them had to correct the other however because they both got detention at the same time, which meant by technical standards, Weasley had been third.

Still, a momentous occasion for them. Hadrian didn’t know if Weasley could turn anymore red without exploding. His face went beyond the color of his ginger hair.

The Patils were Pureblood, migrated here from India a generation ago. Padma Patil, Theo told him, was great to debate with though her sister, Parvati Patil, cared more about her hair and looks than debating. She was still a good student and only second to Granger in her house. Hadrian reminded him that Blaise wasn’t that much different in that regard, and that had Theo looking at them both differently.

Every subject had its pluses and minuses, but the most polarizing had to be Potions in the dungeons with the Slytherin Head of House. Hufflepuff had the class with the Ravenclaws. Hadrian and Theo sat together before Ernie Macmillan could insist that Hadrian sit with him. Adrian had let it slip that whoever you sat by would be your partner for the rest of the term.

Snape was cold and sour all at the same time. He always walked like he had a stick lodged up his arse, and he went around trying to frighten the Hufflepuffs. Even Ernie had been more pale and less arrogant in that class. Justin nearly wet himself and Hannah was almost crying by the end of their class.

He seemed to ignore Hadrian and Theo completely as he made a smart arse remark to Padma Patil that they were not here to learn how to create hair tonics. Never mind she’d never once said anything about hair at all. Hadrian wondered if the man might not be a bit jealous of how shiny and perfect it was.

Last day of the week was Astronomy for all of the first years on top of the tallest tower in the Astronomy Wing at midnight. Longbottom almost took a tumble off the tower but Granger snatched the back of his robes along with other Gryffindors, causing the Slytherins to let out uncontrollable laughter that they couldn’t keep in check. Hadrian didn’t laugh, but he looked away to hide his smile. The boy should have known better than to lean over the side of the tower.

Draco was outright reveling in the fact that his mother was not there to tell him to mind his manners. He let the laughter and taunts fly until Weasley stepped in to defend Longbottom only for Draco to dress him down and embarrass him instead. Hadrian was actually rather impressed with the variety of things Draco came up with. It came to a head when Weasley hit Draco with a random hex that caused his hair to turn blue and Draco retaliated with a Stinging Hex that sent the boy howling. Then, and only then, Professor Sinistra, who had been helping some Ravenclaws, intervened with detentions to Draco and Weasley both.

Least to say the week had been a busy one. After the first day of classes he had sat down with the others outside by the lake and written about his sorting and the last week. It was a rather lengthy note as everyone kept telling him to add various things to it. When he finally stood to wander to the owlery to find his new snowy owl, Phoebe appeared and took the note. Seconds later she was on her way without Hadrian saying who it was for. The second night in the castle he ended up in Marcus’ bed, as Blaise predicted, and over the course of the week he’d slept in just about half of his friends’ beds in Slytherin. He’d only stopped by Hufflepuff once that week to pick up the rest of his books and some more changes of clothing.

He was cordial with his housemates when he saw them, ignored his roommate flatout, but after that first night Hadrian learned that he had to stick with his own kind. At least Cedric was a good representation for his fellow Light wizards, Hadrian silently admitted to himself. If more were like Cedric there wouldn’t be any question on trying to work with them on the balance between affinities. He didn’t seem to see Light and Dark. He saw people. Hadrian appreciated that.

He was going to suspect that because his father worked in the DMLE, he might have heard tales of both sides taking things too far, and that might have shaped his opinion that Dark did not necessarily mean evil or that Light meant good. Susan Bones seemed to be the same way and her auntie was the Head of the Department of Law Enforcement.

Most mornings Hadrian would wake up with whoever he was sleeping with and then proceed to go down with the team to the Quidditch Pitch to watch their practice. He’d enjoyed flying through the toad statues, and after the first time doing so he’d had to do it three more times before he got it out of his system. Draco wretched the first time he did it and Theo looked green for hours afterwards. Nevermind that all of them should have been used to such movements with floo and portkeys.

Hadrian would happily sit in the stands of the gigantic Quidditch Pitch to watch the Slytherin practices. Sometimes Blaise and Draco would join him, but most of the time they chose to sleep in. When Blaise did join him, he spent a lot of the time musing about the muscles the teens would gain by riding wood constantly. The way he worded things often sent Hadrian into uncontrollable bouts of laughter. Marcus could be brutal when he woke everyone up hours earlier than they intended. At one point, he’d done it at three o’ clock sending Cassius on an inventive string of mixed British and American curse words. Hadrian’s first image when Cassius called Marcus a ‘cocksucker’ had been one that caused a weird reaction. His face and neck became a bit too warm at the imagery and he’d had to shake it from his head quickly.

Usually though, Hadrian was alone holding some hot chocolate that one of the boys always brought to him to enjoy in the morning. Sometimes, Hadrian would sit in the stands and study the locket in a bid to try and figure out what color went with who. He noted that some of the gems were on the Pitch with him and the others back at the Dorm. He learned that when Marcus left the pitch that the onyx gem was his and Cassius’ was emerald green. So it didn’t match their eyes like Hadrian first thought it might. Blaise’s seemed to though as his was a lovely amethyst. Theo was clearly a scarlet garnet. It would take another two weeks before he figured the rest out respectively.

Marcus’ fifteenth birthday had arrived before they knew it. Hadrian had used his two months worth of allowance and bought him a brand new Nimbus 2001. His mother, in an angry fit over his ‘bad grades’ last year, had thrown his Cleansweep into the fire in punishment. But now, since Hadrian gifted him one she would be unable to throw it away or damage it less she insult the Rookwood family.

Draco had been the one to tell him about the broom because Hadrian honestly had no idea what the newest ones were. The Nimbus 2001 wasn’t supposed to be released until summer of next year, but Hadrian had talked to his dad who had connections with the makers. He was not above using those connections for his friends. Marcus was smug about having the very first 2001 Nimbus.

Terry groaned as he landed and rolled his neck. “I don’t want to be a Seeker,” he sank down beside Hadrian who offered his hot chocolate to him.

“It’s too bad you can’t make special arrangements and get Draco on the team.”

“Yeah, bloody hell. Fuck Marcus for waking us up even before the roosters.” He rubbed at one of his eyes.

Terry took a drink of the hot chocolate and watched across the pitch. “I’m more Chaser oriented. You want to fly?”

“No thanks. I can fly. Just don’t really care to play.”

“I bet you’d be good. You notice all kinds of things. Marcus is really enjoying that broom and I am so jealous.”

Hadrian grinned at him. “He deserves it.”

“I’m not so sure about that, waking our arses up so damn early.” He handed the hot chocolate back when there was a shout from Adrian. “Wish me luck.”

Hadrian kissed him on the cheek instead as Terry headed back off. He swooped the broom between his slim legs making Hadrian pause and observe him a bit more closely as he shot into the air. The olive skinned brunette swerved around Adrian who tried to whack him with a beater bat. Yeah, Adrian had easily made the team with Marcus as Captain.

Hm. He kept his thoughts as muted as possible.

Charms was probably the only useful spell class right now, Hadrian came to realize. Professor Flitwick was every bit of a Ravenclaw. He would sometimes hint that some of the spells could be used in a Defense application. Which meant that he was well aware of Defense’s shoddy lessons. He also gave some history pieces here and there that were associated with whatever they were learning. He skillfully did it in a way that did not make anyone fall asleep.

First spell they learned was the typical light spell, Lumos, and in that same week they also learned to move objects away from them with Depulso. While some of these spells wouldn’t work on humans they did however work on clothes. But, as jovial as Flitwick was, he still handed them homework. Lots of it because sometimes he’d talk about two spells or three spells in one lesson. Professor McGonagall was doing something similar from time to time. It was like they were trying to pick up the slack from History of Magic. Some of the students like Hadrian had successfully moved onto transfiguring mice into teacups. A few students were still on matches to needles.

Madam Sprout taught the students Incendio and Diffindo. Good for protecting themselves and getting rid of weed infestations but could also be used in more practical dueling matters. Hadrian had already known about the extra ways to use Diffindo and Incendio from when he had been taken to see dueling tournaments.

There wasn’t a single practical moment in Defense classes like in Charms, Transfiguration, and Herbology. So much to do with so little time.

One month after starting school, Hadrian woke and let out a large yawn. He turned into the heated body he was cuddled up with and rubbed unconsciously up against the boy. It was startling to realize that he’d been there for a month now. He’d only had time to write to his dad and Rodolphus twice since they’d been there. A lot of homework had been piled onto them from the start. He was really warm though and hated to disturb the soothing body he was up against.

“Happy Birthday,” Hadrian murmured anyways. He could smell Blaise’s natural scent all around him. It was like a cross between lavender and jasmine. Hadrian had always found it interesting that Blaise smelled like purple flowers. At least neither were overpowering or overly feminine. His mother smelled of jasmine too.

“Nn? Really? Already?” Blaise rolled over and brought his arm out from under the blankets and shifted onto his side to face Hadrian. “Merlin, I forgot…” He smirked down at Hadrian.

“I think homework is draining our brain cells.”

“You’re telling me. Who needs to rattle on for three feet about Wiggenweld Potion?”

“He’s your Head of House, not mine. He assigned Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff four feet.”

Blaise laughed tiredly at this. “You just reap all the benefits without staking any of the claim.”

“Exactly.”

“I think you’re the true Slytherin then.”

“Why do you say that?” Blaise shook his head and Hadrian pouted. “Come on, Blaise, stop hiding things from me.”

“Not hiding them, precious. You know that.”

“Sure, sure.” Blaise chuckled again more to himself and Hadrian pouted at him.

“We should get out of bed before Draco wakes up.”

“What does that mean?” he asked, confused. Draco was used to him sleeping with others. He’d only slept with Draco once but when the boy accidentally rolled him out of the bed, Hadrian had decided the little Prince of Slytherin could keep it to himself, the spoiled prat. “Ngh… why are you leaving? We don’t need to be anywhere yet.”

Blaise slid out of the bed. “Gotta get pretty. It’s my birthday after all.”

“You’re already pretty, what are you talking about?”

He continued to merely smile as he sashayed nakedly toward the bathroom. Hadrian watched him, noting the sleekness of his back and how firm his arse was. Surprisingly so considering they were still eleven, though now Blaise was now officially twelve. Hadrian was sleepily entertained watching the different dark tones that made up Blaise’s skin in the shifting morning light.

Might as well get up now, he thought. He had to get Blaise’s gift from where he hid it in Adrian’s trunk. He wouldn’t leave any of his friends out on their birthdays.

oOo

Two weeks into October and already the grounds were starting to change colors as fall arrived. Everything had dried out over the last couple of weeks and the crispiness could be smelled in the air along with the cool meeting the dying warmth. The days were pleasant even with the wind that picked up. Blaise’d had to tie his braids back otherwise risk assaulting someone whenever he ventured outdoors. He loved the Egyptian beaded clasps that Hadrian had custom ordered for his birthday; they changed colors with the lights going from gold, silver, white, and even burnt red. It’d been made with a special magical metal that couldn’t be found in Britain. He’d gotten the idea from his dad who had talked about it at length and how excited the goblins had become when they discovered it. They were calling it Shifting Gold because the colors shifted in sunlight. They were thin and the size of Hadrian’s thumb. Least to say Blaise had been very popular with nearly every hair loving girl.

One evening Draco pulled Hadrian aside. “I need your help.”

It figured Draco would have gone and gotten himself in trouble when no one was around to help him out of it. His distaste of Weasley seemed to have been enhanced somehow now that they were away from their parents. Hadrian was not present for their altercation but he knew it’d all happened around Potions class from what Blaise told him.

“You always have it. You know that, Draco. What did you and Weasley do now?” Hadrian asked softly.

“Tonight at midnight in the Trophy Room. I’m going to get Weasley back for the stunt he pulled in Potions,” he sneered with a cross of his arms. “I want you to come with me. You have a knack for knowing where things are. I don’t want to get lost.”

“You mean the firecracker incident where your hair looked like Mr. Ollivander?” Hadrian had to swallow his mirth down as Draco’s face flushed with anger.

He loved and would always support his godbrother, but he couldn’t help it that he found it funny that Weasley unwittingly messed with the one thing that could send Draco into a full rage. His hot button was his hair. He and Blaise were the most alike in that regard.

“How dare he…”

“So, what? You want to set them up? You want to duel them?”

“I’d love to duel him into the Hospital Wing. I know he knows less than Muggleborns with how deplorable he does in classes,” Draco drawled. “I have a feeling he’s not going to make a fair fight. I wouldn’t put it past him to bring all the boys he could.”

“We could do the same.”

Draco shook his head. “I want to bring only you. I want to make a point. If we get away easier with only us and they get caught by Filch, well that’s not on me is it?” He said slyly.

Hadrian could go for something other than homework all night. “Okay, I’m in.”

Draco cheered and then he straightened before a second year Ravenclaw passed them by. “Great!” He hissed.

“But, you know you really shouldn’t let Weasley get to you, Draco. You’re better than him.”

“I know that,” said Draco.

“Do you?” Hadrian asked. “What’s really going on?”

Draco shrugged gracefully. “I can’t stand them. Someone always takes their side no matter who it is and no matter the reason. It’s like the sun shines out of their arses. All because they’re Pets of the Light. It’s sickening and his father is always trying to ruin my father’s reputation at the Ministry. So I want to give him a taste of what it's like to mess with a Malfoy.”

“Okay, I could do with the midnight stretch.”

Hadrian admittedly hadn’t really interacted with the Gryffindors much, if at all. Granger had boldly asked him a question or two about something from class, but that was about it. He and Granger were both at the top of their classes for their houses. Sometimes, Granger would annoy him enough with Muggle responses to questions that he would actively participate by answering questions and going a step further to expand on it based on the information he had learned before Hogwarts. Twice now the teacher had awarded points to Slytherin rather than Hufflepuff on accident. The 'Puffs were not amused. Hadrian was.

The only trick about this midnight escapade was the fact that Draco was dumb enough to agree to have it in the Trophy Room, which was nearly at the top of Gryffindor Tower. Adrian, Graham, and Terry had shown them around after the first week of classes to mitigate future chances of getting lost. Draco winced when Hadrian pointed that out. This meant that they would have to sneak their way outside at some point, cross the courtyard to the viaduct corridor and then go in through the clocktower to even get to the tower and hope they were not spotted by Filch. Unless there was a shortcut they could take that he didn’t know about, it was going to be a journey.

He also had to think up an excuse for whomever’s bed he was sleeping in that night. All of them knew he didn’t sleep with Draco. Not after being kicked out of bed by the sleeping boy.

Curfew was set at nine o’ clock unless you were in Astronomy class. Everyone had to be in common rooms by that time. Hadrian had yet to be asked by a Professor why he wasn’t sleeping in his own bed, he supposed that Parnell didn’t bother to tell anyone that Hadrian was never there. Only the bold stepped out after curfew. Prefects and some teachers patrolled until midnight before the ghosts took over. Hadrian knew he could get away with things if the Bloody Baron or the Fat Friar was watching, but there were more ghosts than the house ghosts in Hogwarts. Some of them were downright bitter, especially that ax chasing lady. Eddie Cleavor, according to the Fat Friar, had been running for his life from her for the last three hundred years and counting. Oh, and then there was Peeves.

Nothing else needed to be said about that Poltergeist.

Nope. Not at all.

He decided that he would go back to Hufflepuff for the night. It was a good thing that everyone was busy with their homework, though Blaise looked like he was writing to his mother if the color of the parchment was anything to go by. She had sent him a strongly worded letter about being forgotten about. Only one letter since they started to her had not pleased her in the slightest. Cassius had disappeared somewhere. He’d done that a few times now. Marcus was making a new Quidditch strategy and revising it over and over again. First game of the season was on the first Saturday in November. It was Ravenclaw vs Slytherin. He really took being a Captain seriously.

Had he been working out again? Hadrian couldn’t help but note. He looked more ‘muscled’ along the shoulders and arms. His head was bowed and his eyes narrowed with focus. Beautiful writing, Hadrian noted, as always. It came so naturally to him.

Hadrian shook his head and mentioned that he was going to ‘check-in’ and play good for a bit in Hufflepuff. Draco winked at him as he turned for the spiral stone stairs. As he saw the fountain he couldn’t contain a grumble and wished it would turn off at night. Every time he passed it, he had this urge to pee.

‘Fat Friar’ was the monthly tune for October. He noted that there were drops of honey on the floor and the smell of vinegar was strong and hard to bypass without stepping on it. As the lid slid up, Hadrian wandered into the beautiful enchanted garden box.

A few people glanced his way, but most were playing games, doing homework, eating snacks, and playing with the pets that had found their way in. A few birds were hanging out on golden stands that Madam Sprout had provided for them. They too like the scenery. He couldn’t blame them as he stroked a brown barn owl as he passed. It hooted at him, pleased with the attention.

“Finally remember where Hufflepuff is, do you?” asked Ernie, sitting with his legs crossed on one of the tufted couches. He had a makeshift wooden table hovering over his lap and was doing homework. Hannah was beside him with Susan sitting opposite them with Justin.

Hadrian shrugged.

“Ernie,” Hannah chided. “It’s not his fault he’s in a different house than his friends. He didn’t choose it.”

“Still, he should have some pride. Spend time getting to know us and making more friends.”

“What’s the point? It’s a house,” said Hadrian. “Who is going to care in seven years when we leave? It’s not the be all and end all of the world.”

“Just weird, is all. No one else is so chummy with other houses. Not to mention, how close you are to the Slytherins of all houses. Do you even sleep here?”

“That doesn’t sound like a me problem, Macmillan. And where I sleep is no one’s business.” He didn’t bother to wait for a response or retort and headed down the barrel-like hall to the boy’s wing.

He shoved his key into the door and froze when he walked in.

“Ack!” A girl was in their room and she was completely naked. When he walked in she was laid out beside his roommate, legs spread wide as he sucked at her small chest with his fingers trailing along the girl’s stomach.

Hadrian just arched a brow, trying to recover as his roommate growled. “Get out!”

“Who is going to make me?” he asked, recovering quickly so that they didn’t see his embarrassment. “You? Don’t worry I’ll leave you to your hypocrisy after I get some clothes. Didn’t you try to tell me how doing anything sexual before marriage was wrong when you saw me kiss my friend’s cheek?” So, that is what Blaise drew? Good to have an answer. He never wanted to see one again.

Parnell growled more at him as the girl embarrassedly tried to find something to cover up with. “It’s not hypocritical if I’m going to marry her.”

“Wow? That’s your proposal for marriage? Is that customary in the Muggle world? Proposing naked in bed with a child in the room?”

“It - it wasn’t a proposal! We’re not at that stage of our relationship yet. I mean…” Hadrian was amazed by how panicked Parnell got at the idea.

“Does it look like I care?” Hadrian snorted.

“Make him leave!”

“Leave, Rookwood.”

“No. Maybe I’ll just sit right here. On my bed, in my room.” Hadrian flopped down on his bed and crossed his leg over his knee. “You have a mole on your arse by the way. Did you know?” Parnell’s whole face turned red. “Looks odd. Might want to get it checked out. Wizards can get cancer,” he said pleasantly. Parnell shifted onto all fours over the girl, as if trying to protect her. “Merlin, you’re kinda small too, nothing like Blaise and he’s only twelve.” He smiled sweetly at the horror on Parnell’s face.

“Shut up!” Parnell scowled. “Of all the times to return. You haven’t been here once.”

Finally, the girl managed to get out from under him, stumbled onto the floor, and raced to the bathroom, nearly sobbing the whole way. What was her problem?

“Maybe my timing is trying to tell you something, Parnell? Or not.” He finally slid off the bed and opened his trunk for some things. He spared a thought about having Dobby come move it. Maybe he’d do that tomorrow, he had bigger matters to tend to tonight.

“You tell anyone-” He was finally out of the bed and had thrown on a robe.

“What? You’re going to preach me to death, Parnell? Like the other Muggleborns?” Hadrian drawled looking at him with amusement. “Really? How about I let everyone know and send an owl to your Preacher daddy. Have it arrive on a Sunday morning at work…”

“You can’t do that!” Parnell said, his voice was in a panic.

“I’m a Pureblood, Parnell. My creatures can find anyone anytime,” said Hadrian. “So, you keep your mouth shut and I’ll keep mine shut - to Hufflepuff and your daddy.” He was so telling the Slytherins. He couldn’t wait for this.

Parnell was almost shaken. “F-fine! You win, Rookwood. Can you get out now? Go back to whatever hole you found to stay in.”

Hadrian giggled like he thought Parnell was cute. “You’re not being very nice to me, Parnell. I hold more cards than you do. I’m an innocent eleven year old after all. How’s it going to look if everyone in Hufflepuff finds out when I walk out this door how traumatized I am over what I found in my room? Or the Professor? Board of Governors?” He paled at this. “Better apologize to me or I’ll ruin you and your girlfriend’s little reputation. Maybe I’ll let it spread you impregnated her.”

“ROOKWOOD! You wouldn’t!”

“Apologize to me,” said Hadrian, turning to face him. “Apologize and speak to me appropriately, Parnell. I am not above using everything at my disposal to get my way. I want you to say ‘I’m sorry, Heir Rookwood, that I was rude. It will not happen again.’ If you don’t, I’ll ruin you both.”

Parnell growled at him. “She has nothing to do with this!”

“Ah!” Hadrian held up a hand. “As soon as I walk out of here, everything I offer is off the table for your rudeness, Parnell.” He made to leave, cracking the door open.

“F-fine! I’m sorry, Heir Rookwood, that I was rude to you. It won’t happen again,” he said through gritted teeth. He sounded like he was shaking. Hadrian could see the fear and panic in his eyes and couldn’t help but giggle softly.

“See? That’s not so hard now is it? I would recommend you suspend your sermons for now on too.” He giggled again and then shut the door behind him.

Now that was entertaining, but where was he going to change? He really wanted to change and that stupid girl stole the bathroom.

He decided to change in the dungeon lavatories and made his way back out of Hufflepuff. He was still amused over the whole Parnell situation. Maybe now the bastard would leave him the hell alone and stop preaching stupid Muggle rubbish to him.

He changed out of his school robes and uniform. If he was going to be on an adventure he was going to do it in his own clothes. He replaced the uniform with a pair of dark dark blue fitted trousers, black leather boots that went to his calf over the trousers, and then a blue shirt that was a shade lighter than the trousers as he slipped into a dove gray vest. He grabbed the black robe that Cass had gotten him with a thunderbird on the back and then settled to fixing his hair.

He liked the movement of his own clothes better than the school uniform. Everything was tailored to him specifically. No awkward hang on the shoulders or in the legs. His trouser legs were out of the way. Hadrian had sent a lot of them to Gladrags for re-fitting, but with how many Purebloods were doing so his hadn’t come back yet.

He turned to look in the mirror as he raised the robes. His arse, like Blaise’s, looked good in fitted clothes. His seemed more roundish than Blaise’s. But maybe that was muscle and age. Blaise sometimes worked out with the Quidditch players. At least his arse looked nicer than the girl’s and Parnell’s. Hers was super flat and she was so skinny. Not at all voluptuous like Lady Zabini. She would never be able to pull off the outfits Zenyatta could. Parnell looked like he had no muscle.

Hadrian double checked that his wand was in its holster. Then he shrunk his uniform and put it in a pocket of his robes, glad that his dad had taught him that spell before leaving for school. He made his way out of the dungeons and checked the watch on his wrist. He liked them better than pocket watches. Most everyone but him had a pocket watch. His dad liked wristwatches too because you’d never lose it.

He found Draco leaning against the wall next to one of the flaming braziers. “I should have changed,” he said looking at Hadrian. “That was smart.”

Hadrian shrugged. “Any chance I get to wear my own clothes and I’m taking it. I can be as vain as you, Draco.”

“It’s not vain when it’s natural,” Draco sniffed airily.

“We’ll have to do some dodging. It’s easier with Prefects, but trickier with ghosts and teachers.” Most Prefects, depending on the house and nature, tended to slack in their duties. If they were Slytherin Prefects, they wouldn’t bat an eye at seeing Draco and Hadrian. If they were Hufflepuff, they would ask them kindly to move along. Audrey was really nice that way. Ravenclaws seemed to be hit or miss. Some would shoo them along and others would dock point and give detentions. Gryffindor on the other hand, well Percy Weasley, pretended that they were a teacher-to-be and acted like it.

Hadrian carefully looked around corners as they went, but it was hard to see everything with no lights on the walls. After careful consideration he decided that they might as well move into the open now behind the goblin armor case. He didn’t flinch as the hog statue opposite of them let out a snort. Draco stayed behind him as they moved quietly.

Hadrian loved his boots. Whatever shoes Hogwarts made them wear tended to squeak no matter how new they were and weren’t comfortable in the slightest. His worn leather boots were silent on the stone flooring without needing to be spelled.

No one was in sight and so they moved along, across the hall, to a set of stairs that sat at an angle from where they started. Hadrian and Draco slipped over to it and opened the next set of doors. Using as little space as possible to get through the door’s opening until they were outside at the wooden bridge that took them to the viaduct entrance. They could have gone up the grand staircase, but that possessed its own set of problems. This way was quicker in the end. It took ten minutes in total including dodging some Prefects. The Ravenclaw Prefect nearly spotted Draco’s bright hair until Hadrian seized him and hid in a broom cupboard nearby until he had gone.

“Next time, Draco, wear a black hat,” Hadrian quipped.

“Hats look terrible on me,” he argued. “My face is too thin.”

“Your hair is too bright for being out after curfew. Come on!”

Draco nearly jumped a foot in the air once they reached the bottom of the tower to a long hall and music began to play from all the portraits. “Merlins’ balls!” His hands flew to his ears. Even the suits of armor were clanking to the violins.

“Come on, this actually works in our favor.”

“Really? How do you figure?” Draco asked.

“It’s common that they make noise, so no one will be drawn to it if we make noise. They won’t hear us.”

“Huh, I guess you’re right,” said Draco. “You sneak around at Rookwood Castle?”

Hadrian laughed. “No, but just because you’re too afraid of the caves and mine shafts doesn’t mean I am.”

Draco shuddered. “Merlin, Hadrian! You still go exploring in those spider infested caves?”

“Yes. If I can sneak past a nest full of matriarchs guarding their eggs I can sneak past just about anything,” he said with confidence.

It was a long dance around and around and around and around the tower. Draco started cursing halfway up. Hadrian thought it was kind of fun. He’d have to do this again. Who knew what he would find so late at night? So many opportunities with the castle fast asleep like this.

However, when they got to the top of the tower, they could hear the ragged voice of Filch. “Check every nook and cranny, Mrs. Norris. No stone unturned for those sniveling little beasts.”

Hadrian seized Draco again and pulled him toward the tall glimmering silver troll armor. “Would you mind scooching up, please?” He asked the suit and to his delight, he did. Hadrian and Draco slipped behind it. Both small enough that the troll hid them.

“How did you-?” Draco opened his mouth.

“I find that asking gets you further than taking or demanding. Suits of armor, and sometimes portraits, like watching mischief. Gives them something to do instead of standing around all day and night. What they don’t like is rudeness. However, never ask a gargoyle - ever,” he hissed.

“You are so weird, Hadrian…” But Hadrian placed a hand on his mouth to muffle him when he heard the shuffling feet of Filch and barely caught the tail end of Mrs. Norris walking by. She must be old if she couldn’t smell them outright. Either that or she was smelling something else. “If I didn’t know any better I’d say you had Gryffindor in you.”

“Guilty,” Hadrian breathed, causing Draco to look at him in surprise. Hadrian shrugged. “It said I fit everywhere, so it did consider it. I told it no.”

“I guess if wands like you the houses would too. You are weird,” he reiterated.

“Better than being ‘normal’. What a weird Muggle ideal.”

“That’s true,” Draco considered.

As soon as Filch and Mrs. Norris skived off, they scooted themselves out from behind the armor. “Thanks, Mr. Troll.”

It only grunted inside its helmet as Hadrian and Draco made their way into the large round Trophy Room. It was full of interesting bits of Hogwarts history if you bothered to look at all the plaques and trophies. Hardly anyone ever did. Graham said that a few upper years told him it was a good place to take your significant other to snog in the middle of the day. Lots of cases creating little alcoves.

“We should hide in wait in case Weasley decides to one up you by alerting Filch,” said Hadrian. Draco agreed so they crossed over to one of the cases at the back of the room and stepped behind a tall towering gold trophy. It was bigger than them but still allowed Hadrian a good view of both entrances on either side while having his back toward a wall. Draco stayed behind him. He could hear his nervous breaths. “Although that would be stupid because Filch would just use him as a consolation prize.”

“Filthy Squib…”

It was almost midnight when they heard noise. “I bet that ferret face doesn’t show up…” Draco growled low and Hadrian reached out a hand to stop him from making noise.

“Too damn scared I bet,” said another voice.

“You really think we should be doing this, Ron? Zacharias, should we really be doing this? Can’t we leave well enough alone?” asked a timid voice.

“Come on, Neville, live a little! You can’t be scared of everything coming and going,” one of them snorted.

“But Hermione said-”

“Oh who cares about that girl? She thinks she knows everything!”

“She kind of does and she’s really helped me.”

“She’s annoying. Come on. Just through here. I bet he’ll be surprised when sees the three of us. He won’t be able to take us all.”

Draco wrinkled his nose. “How distasteful,” Hadrian breathed quietly.

Hadrian saw the jumper and the lurid ginger hair before seeing the rest of him. He learned that most of the Weasleys except Percy wore one of these jumpers with the letter that corresponded with their name. Hadrian was sure that Fred and George switched their jumpers from time to time. He’d caught them at it between switching classes when he stopped by the loo.

“Doesn’t sound very Gryffindor of you, Mr. Weasley,” Hadrian’s voice arched genially as he stepped out from behind the trophy case and Draco appeared beside him, causing all of them to jump a foot in the air.

“What are you doing here?” sneered the brown haired boy between Weasley and Longbottom. Zacharias Smith, if Hadrian remembered correctly.

“Every duelist has to have a second or do you not know your dueling rules?” asked Hadrian. “Or did you come up here with the idea of ganging up on him? Doesn’t sound very much like Gryffindor bravery. Maybe you should see the hat for re-sorting.”

“You’re his second?” Zacharias frowned. “You’re not a Slytherin, we have no beef with you, ‘Puff.”

“Yeah, why are you friends with the snakes? All of them are backstabbing traitors,” Weasley scowled.

“Says the filth who is dirtier than the dung on my shoes,” Draco sniffed at him. “What is that you’re wearing, Ronald Weasley? The parfum d'excréments? Is that all you can afford?”

Weasley’s ears grew redder and redder and he raised his wand. “I’ll show you.” But Longbottom grabbed his arms to stop him. “Let me go, Neville…”

“You’re feeding right into him, Ron,” Neville chided. “If you make too much of a fuss we may alert Filch.”

“You wanted to duel, right?” Hadrian asked. “Or did you just want to ambush my friend and act like Muggles with your fists or something? You really think a Hufflepuff would allow that to happen to his friends?”

“They are not friends, they’re Slytherins. Snakes! Evil, Rookwood,” Weasley insisted. “They don’t have friends. They only have people they use and torture with Dark magic. You must not know that if you think you’re their friend. It’s not your fault that’s how they are. That they’ve tricked you into thinking otherwise…”

“Weasley, I’ve been in this world as long as you have,” he assured. “I’m not a Muggleborn and ignorant. Now, do you want to duel or not? We’re wasting valuable time.”

Both Weasley and Smith looked at each other and Neville looked down at his feet. “I don’t want to fight anyone,” said Neville. “I don’t think you two should either.”

“Neville!”

“Rookwood’s grades are as good, maybe better than Hermione’s and Malfoy’s been learning Dark magic since he was a small child I’ll bet!” said Neville.

“And how do you know what I’m being taught, Longbottom?” Draco snapped coldly. “How dare you make presumptions about me and my family.”

“You are Dark.”

“So what?” Hadrian asked. “Doesn’t mean he’s evil. Just like Light doesn’t mean you’re the good guy.”

“I remember our conversation in the shop, but I still disagree with you,” said Neville, looking at him.

“You can disagree all you want, but you shouldn’t make assumptions about people you do not know until you have met them for yourself. Plenty of Light wizards are sitting in Azkaban right now for the things they’ve done. Just like Dark wizards.”

“That isn’t true!” Neville shook his head quickly. “Surely your Unspeakable father has taught you better?”

Hadrian narrowed his eyes at that. “Seems you’re too blind. Now, let’s cut to the chase. Duel or not?” Hadrian’s wand was now in his hand. It shined golden and matched all the trophies and shields in the room. He took a stance causing his robes to sway a bit. “It’s up to you because I have to get to bed soon before someone starts missing me and comes looking.”

Draco started laughing quietly and turned his face away. “Who is it tonight?”

“Cass.”

“Oh bloody hell, we chose a bad night!” Draco squeaked.

“We? I think you mean you.”

“Don’t pretend you haven’t had the night of your life!” Draco defended.

Hadrian smiled. “It’s been fun. You know I like an adventure.” He turned his eyes away for a single second to look at Draco.

With a stupidly loud cry of “Incendio!” Weasley shot out a spell causing Hadrian to shift out of the way. Draco yelped and jumped back.

Hadrian turned and growled at him. “Rude, Weasley! Weren’t you ever taught proper dueling etiquette? Glacias!” He hissed and swiped his wand arm down before Weasley could retaliate.

Draco shot a stinging hex at Zacharias who hit him with a jelly legs jinx. Hadrian was almost impressed by the kid knowing something that hasn’t been taught yet in Hogwarts. Weasley froze as the ice began to rise up over and around him until he was nearly solid. Longbottom jumped up and down and begged his friends to stop.

“Diffindo!” He swiped up again causing the ice to shatter and the boy fell to the ground. He gained a shallow cut across his face and down his chest.

Draco had finally unwound his jelly legs and shot a Stupefy at Zacharias, the kid actually dodged it and fired back. Hadrian stepped to the side and folded his arms to wait. It was not his fight.

Longbottom frowned. “You’re not going to attack him?” He had bent down to check Weasley. He wasn’t hurt too bad. A bit of hypothermia and a shallow cut. It would heal.

“It’s not my fight, that would be rude. In a competition I’d be disqualified if I did more than protect myself.”

A well timed Rictusempra followed by a Depulso sent the giggling Smith crashing into a trophy case. A vibration brought some of it down, smashing and echoing off the walls. Hadrian was surprised that it hadn’t been protected better.

Hadrian, knowing the duel was over, grabbed Draco by the arm. His legs were still jellified a bit, but they had no time to fix it because he could hear the thunder of the stone stairs. “GET THEM MRS. NORRIS!”

Hadrian dragged Draco away out the other side just in time for Filch to come barrelling through on the Gryffindors.

“Ah hah! I knew it! I caught you all red handed! I’ll bet I can talk the Headmaster into letting me shackle you and beat you this time! Yessum!” He sounded distastefully gleeful, which actually had Hadrian frowning. He might not like the Gryffindors but that was a bit much for him.

What kind of caretaker was in their school? He asked himself in disgust. Is this really the kind of people the Light employed?

Hadrian dragged Draco’s by the back of the robes, his legs kept twisting and they almost fell down the stairs. “Finite.”

Draco slumped. “Ow… ulgh…”

“Ssh. Come on! You can groan later. We have to get out of here before Longbottom’s muttering finally starts to make sense.”

Hadrian flew down the stairs, taking them three and sometimes four at a time. Draco whined after him as the sound of violins and music picked up again.

“Hadrian… slow down!” Draco finally made it to the bottom and nearly crashed into Hadrian’s back. Seconds later they heard a cat’s growl and they were running again. With a dive down one hall and then another, they kept moving with only a goal of getting away quickly. They didn’t stop until Hadrian felt they were well away from the scene of the crime. Draco was panting and gulping for air. “I’m exhausted…”

“Don’t lay down now,” said Hadrian when he stopped to take a look at where they were. It was a long corridor with a ton of windows on either side of them. He didn’t recognize the floor at all. He walked from one end to the other, trying to catch his own breath and let his heart come back down from its hiding place in his throat. “Where are we?”

Draco had his hands on his knees and head bowed, sweat covered him. Even his hair was sopping wet. Hadrian was sweaty too, but not nearly as bad. He’d still want a shower before crawling into bed with Cassius, but hopefully the teen wouldn’t put up a fuss about it. Cassius hated anyone going to bed with wet hair.

He walked over to one of the windows and peered out to get a sense of where they were. He could see the Hogwarts grounds as he wiped the condensation with the sleeve of his robe. Out in the distance he saw the Owlery Tower that sat just outside of Hogwarts.

Based on the view they were actually close to Ravenclaw. He should have thought of that with the pale blue coloring the decorations in the hall had. “Good, we’re not too far from the dungeons. Let’s go.”

Hadrian found himself walking by a statue of a stately one-eyed witch. Didn’t Marcus mention her? She was a marker that had been pointed out to them during that first week of school. So they were quite close to that forbidden corridor. It didn’t matter tonight, they needed to get back to the dungeons. No one patrolled the dungeons, not even Snape. Adrian told him that Snape left Hogwarts right after classes unless he had to monitor a detention.

“Hey, when you stay with the others do you sleep like with Blaise?” Draco asked quietly.

“Hmm?” Hadrian looked over at him. “Why do you want to know?”

“What? I’m curious.”

“Some. The others prefer to wear underclothes to bed and I match what they do. And no I’m not telling you more, you can ask them directly if you really want to know.” Hadrian shrugged. “Through here.” Hadrian led the way to the end of the hall to the Grand Staircase that moved and changed positions every few seconds. Portraits hung all across the rounded tower, nearly all of them were snoring at this time of night thankfully.

No one was in sight, not even a ghost. Draco followed him down, down, down until they reached the bottom and took a spiral staircase tucked away to the dungeons.

“I hate Weasley,” he spat.

“You showed them that you couldn’t be messed with.” Draco nodded sharply. “Besides, they got themselves in trouble. Not us.”

“How did you know?” Draco asked him as they passed by the barrels toward the rusted gate.

“Know what?”

“Weasley’s spell. You dodged it at the perfect time.”

“I felt it like a wind was on my face before the spell came near,” Hadrian told him. “He has a delayed reaction between his casting and magic. If he’d been older and more practiced, I don’t think I would have noticed and been hit with it. But he’s our age and I know we’re better than him.”

“I want to get better.”

“That’s why we’re here.”

“But Defense is useless.”

“Doesn’t mean you can’t self study.” Slytherin’s great serpent wall rose up as they approached revealing the entryway to Slytherin. “Why do you think my dad made us some books? Hogwarts isn’t the limit after all.”

He had a feeling that after tonight Draco was going to devour his dad’s book. Hadrian would too. He did not like being caught off guard like that. He wondered if there was any way he could practice? He’d have to think about it later. Maybe have Dobby do a bit of scoping around Hogwarts for him. He knew thanks to Cedric that there were hundreds of house-elves and it was impossible to keep track of them. Mostly, they kept track of themselves.

As expected for the time of night, the entirety of the common room was empty. Draco fell onto one of the armchairs. “Oomph, I am bloody exhausted and I sweat through my robes. Ew”

“Don’t forget your hair.” Draco scowled at this. Hadrian smiled. “Least with my hair you can’t tell. I still want a shower though.”

“Thanks for coming with me tonight.”

“Anytime,” said Hadrian. “Don’t stay down here, let’s go to bed.” Draco rose and they headed toward the boy’s hall.

He quietly slipped into the darkened dormitory for the fourth year boys and could see a small light shining through one of the bed curtains as he carefully closed the door so as not to wake anyone. He could hear Marcus’ snores loud and clear, but they never bothered him when he stayed with the teen. Adrian and Cassius were both silent sleepers but Adrian was a light sleeper so he tended to sleep with silencing spells about his bed.

Cassius’ bed was in the middle of the room, nearest the door to the bathroom. Adrian and Marcus had beds that were opposite of each other. The light was coming from Cassius’ bed.

He found himself staring down at glowing blue eyes. “You’re late, sweetheart.”

Hadrian crossed over and leaned down. “Sorry.”

Cassius shook his head. “What were you doing?”

“Would you be mad if I said I had an adventure?”

Cassius sighed sleepily. “No. You’ve been having adventures since you got caught in that black bear den. Your dad still talks about it. You have fun at least?”

“Yes. Knocked out a Gryffindor.”

“Good. Come to bed.”

“I’m sweaty. I should shower.”

“I don’t care. Undress and get in. I’ve kept a space warm for you. I want you in bed.”

For some reason that single statement sent an involuntary shiver up his spine and back down again. Hadrian was already pulling out of his robes aware of Cassius’ eyes watching him but he did not look back as he untied his laces and stepped out of his boots. He sat his wand down beside Cassius’ on the nightstand and was soon down to his underpants. They were red tonight in the same style as Blaise’s, meaning not much to hide behind. “I need a shirt. You sleep in a shirt and boxers.”

“Don’t bother tonight. Just get in. You’ve been awake too long already.” He opened the covers and Hadrian didn’t argue as he crawled into the bed.

Hadrian snuggled close as Cassius covered them from the cool dampness of the dungeon. Hadrian turned into him as arms went around him. A nose buried into the top of his head and Hadrian sighed as he relaxed with his ear against Cassius’ heart and he could hear the thumping as fingers played in his slightly damp hair and then trailed down his bare back causing him to shiver again, but this time more pleasantly.

His eyes grew heavy and asleep he went.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twelve

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”

― Lao Tzu

“You drew a very ugly interpretation of a vagina.” Hadrian had waited for the perfect time when everyone was eating the following morning to say it loud enough for the boys to hear. It was a good thing it was a Saturday, otherwise Draco would be called out in class for nodding off. “Not that the real thing was much better.”

Cassius spat out his morning tea, Marcus knocked over his milk, and everyone else’s reaction was so classic that Hadrian had to work hard to swallow his laugh.

“Is that what that was? Back in History?” Draco made a face. He had been nearly napping in his pumpkin juice.

Blaise grinned. “Call it a pussy, precious. Please.”

Cassius snarled. “Zabini!”

“Cat’s out of the bag now, Cassius,” and then he laughed along with Adrian, Graham, and Terry at the pun. “Oh that was a good one!”

“I had an unfortunate encounter with one yesterday,” said Hadrian dryly, nose wrinkling. “I don’t want to see it again.” He kept his smile down as he took a spoonful of his oatmeal with honey.

“What?” asked Cassius, shocked.

“Who?” Marcus demanded.

“Parnell, the hypocrite, had some girl over.” Hadrian grinned and then he proceeded to tell them what he saw last night when he went to Hufflepuff for the first time in months. He told them everything, including how he made Parnell apologize and call him Heir Rookwood.

That changed all of their expressions. “Now that’s devious,” laughed Graham.

“You took care of that with class,” Adrian said.

“Does it really have teeth?” asked Draco, causing everyone to laugh at him.

“What have teeth?” asked Theo coming around. He was the last down that morning.

“Pussy.” Blaise said grinning shamelessly.

Theo looked at him blankly. “A cat does have teeth, yes.” The whole table went into an uproar causing Theo to sigh. “I have a feeling this is not about cats.” He sat down gracefully. “Do I dare to wonder out loud?”

“Hadrian learned what Blaise had been drawing back in September,” Adrian supplied him with. “A vagina,” he answered at Theo’s blank face. “And no, it does not.”

“Oh… gross!”

Speaking of sleepy students, the Gryffindors hadn’t looked too happy when they came in that morning. Hadrian was pleased to see that his spell had left a light pink mark on Weasley’s face. He probably didn’t go and have it taken care of. Either his pride wouldn’t let him or he was too embarrassed. Smith looked like he was aching if the way he walked hunched over was anything to go by.

“Where did you go last night?” Blaise finally asked, shifting the amusing conversation.

“On an adventure,” Hadrian grinned.

“Without me? How dare you. I’m much better company for adventures than Draco.”

“You’d have all gotten us caught if you all went with us,” Hadrian argued. “Besides, it was better that it was just the two of us. Even the Gryffindors can’t claim lack of fairness when it’s two on three.”

“Mostly two on two,” said Draco.

“Who left the mark on his face?” Theo asked, having noticed it instantly. Hadrian raised his hand mockingly. “Smith doesn’t look too good either. What did you do to him, Draco?”

“He did it to himself, should have avoided smashing into the trophy case,” sniffed Draco. “Besides, it serves them right.”

“Someone didn’t cast an unbreakable charm on the glass,” Hadrian giggled. “All of the trophies came crashing down.”

“And the best part is they all got caught red handed by Filch,” said Draco gleefully, nearly cackling.

“How did you avoid him and that damn cat?” Marcus asked curiously.

“I dragged his arse away.” Hadrian rolled his eyes. “Draco needs to go on more adventures.”

“What? Why?”

“You’re sneaking is shit - that’s why.”

Draco sniffed and changed topics, “Hadrian can basically fly. He was taking the stairs a few at a time, skipping down them like a rock over water. I thought my legs were going to break.”

“That was jellied legs you had, Draco.”

Draco sulked. “I had hoped you forgot that part.”

“Sorry,” Hadrian offered him some bacon as a peace offering but Blaise took it and ate it before he could grab it.

“Arse!” Draco exclaimed.

“Marcus, I’m surprised you’re not on the pitch today,” said Hadrian, shifting topics.

Marcus grumbled. “The Gryffindors got it. Their game is two weeks after ours against Hufflepuff.”

“Going to root for them?” Hadrian asked sweetly, causing Marcus and Cassius to just look at him flatly. Hadrian then gave them sorrowfully hopeful eyes causing both boys to cringe. “What? You won’t root for my house, Cass, Adrian, Terry, and Marcus?” He asked with a pout. “After I root for you in your games?”

“Hadrian…”

“Sweetheart…”

“Precious…”

“I get it. I understand.” He sniffled and turned away and played with his food. He caught Graham and Blaise holding in snickers and winked at them. “I guess I’m not worth it.” He made his eyes get really big and watery and bowed his head.

“Ouch…” Blaise hissed quietly while flashing a thumbs up.

Growls and grumbles came from the boys. “FINE!” All of them exclaimed, and Hadrian brightened.

“Yay.”

“But I reserve the right to laugh if Diggory falls off his fuckin’ broom,” Marcus bartered.

“Deal!” Blaise broke into an outright laugh that echoed through the Great Hall, catching a lot of attention. All the Quidditch boys were hanging their heads and grumbling. Even Theo was trying to hide his laughter. “Great, we’ll make a big day of it. I wonder if I have anything gold and fluffy that you could fit into? We can make banners and streamers with big golden badgers on it…” The abject horror on their face was worth the five second joke before he smiled and said. “Just kidding! You know I don’t bloody care if you root for them or not. I only care about Quidditch because of you guys. Not the game itself.”

All of them breathed a sigh of relief. Graham was trying to stifle his laughs only to break into wheezes. Draco took this time to steal the last of the strawberries near them since most of them had been eaten by Marcus.

oOo

Hadrian awoke shivering on the morning of Samhain. It was not easy keeping heat circulating in such a large drafty space like the Slytherin common room with the large panes of glass looking into the lake. That cold creeped into the dorms overnight. He whined and turned into Marcus burly chest as arms tightened around him. “Cold…” The covers were drawn further up. Between them bathing him in some contained body heat and the hot body he was pressed up against he was tempted to fall back asleep.

Marcus took up most of the bed being fifteen and when his shirt came off last night, Hadrian’s mouth had nearly fallen open. He was not fat in the slightest. Not a single bit of fat was left on him. It was all muscle. Hadrian had slept snuggled up close, half laying on top of him all night long because even as small as he was, a couple inches of space was just not enough. He’d been a bit hot that night and not because of the weather. Hadrian had a hard time not staring at him.

Hadrian was on one side of Marcus with his knees curled and gently laying over top of Marcus’ legs. He was probably the only one of their friends who could hold weight all night and not feel it or mind it. Hadrian’s head had been on his chest which had been used as a pillow. A bit hard for a pillow, but the warmth and the sound of his heartbeat was nice. Marcus slept in silk pajama bottoms and no shirt most nights. He complained of getting hot.

Hadrian didn’t know how he got hot in these dungeons, it had to be his muscles because Hadrian got frigid. There was a heater in the center of their room and hearing Hadrian complain, Cassius was crossing over and tapped it causing the heat to rise.

Admittedly, Hadrian should have been with Graham last night, but he’d been going back and forth between Cassius, Marcus, and Blaise for a week now. He couldn’t help himself. Although, lately, Blaise had been flirting with a seventh year Slytherin and so he’d skipped some nights with Blaise if only to respect any fun he was wanting to have. Draco had whined that Blaise locked him out of the dorm one night and he had to sleep with Terry. Hadrian didn’t know what the twelve year old would get up to, but he didn’t want to stand in the way. The older boys wouldn’t tell him either.

Samhain was supposed to be a mass celebration of the Dark and its magic. It was one of two nights during the year when Dark magic was at its most powerful, but unfortunately over the years the true spirit of the holiday had been lost. He also knew from his dad that the Headmaster had all but banned any actual Samhain festivities from all houses and replaced it with the Muggleborn friendly, Halloween. Filling the castle and meals with sweets, candy, and pumpkins. At least the other day was during the Yule break and they could all celebrate the winter solstice, the darkest night, correctly.

Not a single person in Slytherin had been happy about the forced tradition changes. Hadrian imagined Hufflepuff was excited though. What a weird contrast Hadrian was living in these days. Adrian had told them that it was mandatory that everyone celebrate with a feast and candy in the Great Hall. They still had class that day since it was Thursday and it had been deemed not important enough to stop class. Yet it was important enough to demand everyone to celebrate.

Ridiculous.

Hadrian raised his head to look at Marcus lying beneath him, eyes half shut. He looked content. No snarl on his face or twisted brow. Hadrian reached a finger up and brushed his forehead. His eyes opened a bit further. Hadrian got shy and dropped his hand and ducked his head back to Marcus’ chest. Arms tightened around him. Soon, unfortunately, they had to roll out of bed.

“Ulgh, bladder. Your knee was pressing on me all night,” Marcus grunted.

“Sorry.”

“It was worth it,” Marcus said, sitting up when Hadrian moved so that he was settled on the bed between Marcus’ legs. He then hopped off the bed and went over to the heater to place his hands in front of it. He was wearing silk pajama bottoms too as Marcus made for the bathroom.

Soon everyone was washed and dressed. Normally, they gave Hadrian dibs on the bathroom, they seemed too scared to go in with him when Hadrian suggested that it would be faster that they do so. He did so with Blaise, Draco, and the third years all the time, even the ones he didn’t sleep naked with.

Hadrian had been cheered when the other day Gladrags had finally sent him his Hogwarts uniforms all tailored and fixed. If he had asked the tailor to tuck in the trousers a bit more so that he could wear his boots, well that was just practical. Besides, no one could really see beneath the robe unless he took it off. He found out that Cass just didn’t wear the uniform trousers. Blaise was starting to deviate too, adding various colors of trousers beneath his robes. He even daringly once wore snow white. No one noticed with the robe over his front. When it got warmer again they’d have to stop that when wearing the robes open, but that was a problem for late spring.

Thankfully, all he had that day was Herbology and History of Magic. Thursdays were a relatively slow day. The third and fourth years’ schedules were full to bursting with Runes, Arithmancy, and Care of Magical Creatures all occurring along with the joint History of Magic. At least there was no Astronomy this week on the tower due to the clouds being too thick for even high powered magical telescopes to penetrate them. Professor Sinistra didn’t even set them a research topic to do instead, just told them to meet next week when they’ll try again. Hadrian wondered what she would do once winter really set in and there were rarely any cloudy free days to be had.

History of Magic was as usual a joke. Hadrian sat on Cassius today beside Adrian and Marcus. Graham had skipped the class for some reason and Blaise was in an upper corner snogging the seventh year Slytherin who he had been flirting with. Seems the guy had the period free and was willing to spend it in the History classroom. Hadrian had seen some students look over at them in disgust, but it didn’t take long for the seventh year to do some sort of spell that stopped anyone not in Slytherin from seeing. Hadrian wasn’t sure what was wrong with the spell, because he could still see them and Blaise was very enthusiastic. Cassius kept turning his head away and back to the book he was holding.

Hadrian and Cassius were reading from the History of Magic text together. Theo was making his own notes as the ghostly Professor droned on and on about the same date. Theo would pass questions to the older boys from time to time. It was tricky to sometimes do your own independent study, but it had to be done. He couldn’t disappoint his dad.

Hadrian hadn’t meant to notice, but his father had trained him on noticing the details around him. For some reason, Granger seemed to be having a bad day and it all had to do with Weasley. Now Hadrian didn’t like either of them, Weasley was always an arse, but he seemed even more so today. It was clear that Granger was trying hard to fit in and study. Even if she went about it wrong, that was not her fault. He blamed the school and the lack of etiquette classes, but Weasley seemed to have a jealous bone that made the color green pale in comparison. Granger in her misguided attempt to help Weasley had embarrassed him further, setting him off and that seemed to spread into Charms after lunch. At least that’s what Blaise told him after.

Hadrian wrinkled his nose when he saw the orange and black lanterns strung up all over the hallways. Sweets had been scattered over the tables that evening during supper. From weird waxy corn bits with white and orange stripes that had Draco gagging when he timidly tried a bite to charmed gummy bats that flew over their heads.

A lot of dishes had been made into weird caricatures of ghosts that didn’t look like ghosts but like a white blob with a smiley face on it. There were also pumpkins shaped foods that were smiling back at him. He did not need his food to smile at him, thank you. That was creepy.

Muggleborns were running up and down the aisles joining friends here and there. A couple would shout, ‘trick or treat’ to another.

Slytherin sat in almost total silence picking around the weird things as Cassius explained what candy corn happened to be and why it was so bloody disgusting. It was some Muggle invention from America that was wildly popular.

Some of the Slytherins pulled out homework in a desperate bid to ignore the hall full of disrespect. Hadrian wanted to do the same but when he checked his bag, he huffed, realizing he’d dumped everything into Marcus’ trunk the night before. He still hadn’t removed his own trunk from Hufflepuff in the off-chance that someone went up there to check, find it gone, and start asking questions.

“I’ll be back.”

“Where are you going?” Draco asked.

“I need to get my homework. Can I, Marcus?” he asked, not wanting to invade the teen’s privacy without asking.

“You know you can, baby.”

He beamed. “Thank you!” He was on his feet and squeezed Graham’s shoulder as he swept around the Slytherin table and out of the Great Hall.

He made for the dungeons as the laughter and Great Hall chatter dissolved behind him. It wouldn’t bother him so much if there was some sort of compromise on the holidays. He didn’t think it was fair that they were required to accept Muggle and Muggleborn holidays when they completely ignored and disregarded Pureblood traditional holidays at the same time. It was worse in many ways considering how often they lined up. Hadrian could have understood if both were acknowledged and celebrated as that would be a bridge between the different cultures. But ignoring one and forcing everyone to do the other was horrible. Especially if the other had nothing to do with magic.

He was in his own mind when he noticed a putrid smell that seemed to come from down the hall behind the gate where Slytherin sat. He frowned and wondered if those silly Weasley twins were at it again. He’d heard from Theo that they had set dungbombs all over Ravenclaw Tower.

The Weasleys had not bothered the Slytherins at all that year so far. Marcus had commented about how odd it was that they didn’t try anything yet. So was this their ‘trick’ that the Muggleborns had been shouting about all night long? As clever as those boys seemed, not even they could make the dungeons vibrate until it began to outright shake. Hadrian automatically called on his wand as the ceiling began to spill small stones and sand down on his head.

Two things happened at once, the first was a high pitched scream from a girl and second was the gated wall that separated Hufflepuff and Slytherin exploded. Hadrian was forced to duck as stone and rubble went flying all around him. He could feel his wand heat up causing all the stones to stop and float before they dropped down. His wand protected him completely all on its own.

“Thank you,” he breathed, but when he looked up from his crouched position, his eyes rounded in surprise. Baring down him was a massive green skinned troll with a club as long as Hadrian’s body.

Hadrian let out a yelp and he rolled on instinct when the club came down. It smashed into some of the barrels in the hall. Hadrian slid between its legs to get behind it and avoid getting hit by debris. He was not going to be blocked in nor was he going to stupidly try and fight something that had some of the toughest skin out there. It turned with a snarl. Every step it took shook the dungeon grounds and it brought its club back around, taking out some torches as it did, and Hadrian could see it charging.

He turned and ran. He moved fast, curving around towards Slytherin but noting that the door snake was not rising up. The Troll gained ground and smashed through the nearby kelpie fountain.

“Rookwood!” A girl’s voice shouted, but he didn’t turn to look because that club was coming back his way.

He dived for the ground and shot a spell over his shoulder. “Glacias!” He aimed for the club and for the briefest of moments, the troll’s arm was stalled in midair. “Diffindo!” He knew it wouldn’t take long before it broke through. The spell made contact with the club causing it to explode in a shower of wooden splinters and bits.

One less weapon. He was running again, stumbling over rubble as he did. The troll became angry that it lost its club and picked up a large piece of the kelpie fountain, throwing it like a rock.

Hadrian let out a cry and he ducked on instinct to minimize his location. “Bombarda!” snarled a voice directly behind Hadrian. He barely had time to turn to see Cassius standing over him as pieces of the statue were obliterated, causing the troll to snarl and charge its fists. “Get him out of here, Marcus!”

He could hear the sudden fear and panic in Cassius’ voice as spells of different kinds arced over him from Cassius but none seemed to make a difference with the troll’s tough skin. Marcus however could not get to him fast enough and the troll was upon them. He was so close that Hadrian could see the texture of its skin.

“Fuck!” Cassius shoved Hadrian out of the way, towards Marcus, bringing up a weak protego. Actual defensive spells weren’t Cassius’ strong point, he was usually stronger with offensive ones. It only flinched the troll back a half a step before it was coming back on them.

Hadrian’s heart rose up into his throat and the roaring sound of everything around him began to pressurize in his ears. He only saw Cassius’ life flashing before his eyes. “No!” Hadrian cried out. He was moving out from under Marcus to get in front of Cassius. Something hot and wild flared up through him. The same hue of vibrant blue magic that he’d seen in Diagon Alley began to flow all around and through him, filling every part of him. Ancient Magic.

A piece of the kelpie statue that had been obliterated raised in front of him and Cassius when he brought his hand up over his face. He then swiped his hands down. The chunk smashed down on the face of the troll making it stagger. Hadrian followed it up with what looked like a bright blue fireball of magic. His wand helped to form the ball into one massive shape which made the entire dungeon area light up. No one was allowed to hurt his friends, he’d destroy the world first. He threw the magic before the troll could come to its senses.

It didn’t smash into the troll like would be expected, rather it cut right through that impossibly thick skin. He nearly bisected it, making the creature fall backwards. It caused a massive quake when it landed. Cassius and Marcus grabbed Hadrian to cover him as the dungeons began to cave in. Rocks as large as their head rained down as the ceiling above them had been too damaged during the fight to hold up.

“Wingardium Leviosa!” He heard the voices of Blaise, Theo, Draco, Adrian, Graham, and Terry say in sync from his place beneath Marcus and Cassius. All the rubble that had been pelting Cassius and Marcus stopped and then fell slow and lazily around them.

Hadrian’s heart was still going fast, as fast as a snidget’s wings. He could feel Marcus and Cassius over him, shielding him like they were a protego spell, both arms interlinked with each other and around him. He could hear their heart beats too in the silence that fell. He was sure it was just as fast as his. Their sweat dripped into his hair and onto his cheek.

Cassius and Marcus drew back. Marcus took Hadrian with him, guiding him to lean back as Hadrian’s legs buckled under him. Marcus stared over at Cassius as all three teens fought to calm their breaths. His face was filthy and Hadrian knew his own was probably gray as stone from all of the dirt and dust. He looked over to see nearly every Slytherin and some Hufflepuffs loitering about. He also noted that Granger was in the dungeons. What was she doing here? Shouldn’t she have been at the feast enjoying the Muggle holiday? Her back was against the wall and her cheeks were tear stained and dusty. Hadrian’s friends ringed around him, Marcus, and Cassius. All of them were breathing heavily and he could see their concern shining from their eyes. Each of them hid what emotions they could behind Pureblood noble masks with all of the Hufflepuffs around, but there were cracks.

None of them spoke for a bit because really, what would they say after that? Instead, they just looked at each other. Cassius reached out and touched Hadrian’s cheek lovingly, brushing some of the dirt away, as Marcus squeezed him from behind. He could feel Marcus shift to support him better, providing an illusion that he was standing normally. Which he appreciated considering it felt like he couldn’t move as his adrenaline started to disappear.

That was when the teachers finally arrived. Professor McGonagall and Snape moved forward. “Move aside, students,” Professor McGonagall called out, her voice slightly shaken too.

What was she worried about? Hadrian huffed. She didn’t have a troll chasing her.

Hadrian dropped his eyes to the ground, hand clenching on Marcus’ arm about his waist. He didn’t like being this shaken in front of teachers or people he didn’t know or care about. Marcus pulled him closer, taking even more of his weight. Guess all that exercise for Quidditch was good for something.

“Mr. Warrington,” Hadrian glanced up to see Cassius’ back suddenly stiffen from his place directly in front of Hadrian and his hands fell from Hadrian’s face. He already felt the loss of warmth from them. “Please step aside, Mr. Warrington, so we can check if Mr. Rookwood is alright,” she encouraged.

“He’s fine,” said Cassius.

“Warrington, move aside,” Snape said, but Warrington held his ground with a shake of his head.

“No,” he said sharply, causing a ripple of gasps from the Hufflepuffs.

“Severus, check on the troll,” she ordered him suddenly. She was tall enough that she could just make out Hadrian over Cassius’ shoulder, their eyes connected. “Make sure it’s down, and then lead all the Slytherin and Hufflepuff students back to their dormitories. Mr. Warrington, Mr. Flint, and Mr. Rookwood. Come with me.” She did not make it a suggestion.

All the ‘Puffs and Slytherins parted for her as she made her way back up the steps. She then turned and looked around at the rubble. “20 points each to Slytherin, Mr. Zabini, Mr. Malfoy, Mr. Pucey, Mr. Montague, and Mr. Higgs. 20 points to Ravenclaw, Mr. Nott, for that impeccable display of fast thinking and magic. Now, come along you three.”

“Minerva…”

“You heard me, Severus.”

Professor McGonagall kept moving without stopping. After a bit of shuffling so that Marcus could continue to support him as they walked, they followed her out of the dungeons and to the Transfiguration Courtyard. The longer he was in motion the steadier on his legs he started to feel. None of them stopped until they got to her classroom. Cassius walked ahead of them as if he was a barrier between her and Hadrian.

Hadrian was pretty sure McGonagall wasn’t a troll. She was probably the best teacher here at Hogwarts with Flitwick right behind her. “It’s okay, Cass,” Hadrian touched the teen on the back.

McGonagall shut the door with her wand and then she turned. “Well, come out. Let me see you, Mr. Rookwood. I need to make sure you’re not hurt.”

“I’m fine, Professor,” said Hadrian, stepping around Cassius and dropping his arms at his side. “A bit shaken up, but I’m alright. You might want to check on Granger though. I heard her scream before the troll busted through the gate.”

She nodded sharply. “I will. Mind telling me what happened-?” But before she could finish the door opened again. Everyone turned simultaneously and they were all surprised when the Headmaster stepped through.

“Professor McGonagall.” He then smiled at Hadrian, Cassius, and Marcus.

Hadrian looked away, noting that those eyes were too twinkly behind his half mooned spectacles. “We’re really fine, Professor. I was going to get my homework to do it with the Slytherins when I smelled it. At first I thought it was the Gryffindor twins pulling one of their pranks, I heard about the dungbombs set off around Ravenclaw Tower, but then I heard a scream and the troll was crashing through the gate. I barely had time to react before I started to run.”

“You ran?” asked the Headmaster.

“Well, I wasn’t going to stand there and fight a troll with my back to a wall,” said Hadrian, not looking at him and instead focusing more on the tear in Cassius’ robes. “That’s foolish.”

“Indeed, Mr. Rookwood,” Professor McGonagall agreed.

“It was big enough that I could slide under its legs. Large creatures like that, if you get too close, can’t really see you well. So I went running toward the Slytherin rooms because there’s more room there than the space in front of Hufflepuff. It busted through the fountain and I managed to freeze its club before destroying it. I wanted to at least get rid of its weapon. But that only made it angrier. Cass came when it was about to hit me with a piece of the fountain.”

Cassius inclined his head. “Together we all took it down,” he told them succinctly.

“Is that what happened?” the Headmaster asked, genially.

“Yes sir,” all three spoke.

“What else would you expect, Albus, from two fourth years and a first year?” asked McGonagall, surprised.

“Oh, I don’t know. I heard a story just now of a bright blue ball of light coming from Mr. Rookwood,” he said kindly. “Seemed rather interesting.” Hadrian figured that Hermione Granger must have told him what had happened.

“It must have been our magic combining,” said Cassius, offhandedly.

“Some are saying the ball was bigger than your heads. I just wondered what spell that could have been. I’ve never heard of such a thing.”

“Just random spells we learned from here, Professor. Nothing more or less,” said Cass. He kept all his answers quick and simple.

“Mr. Rookwood?”

“What Cass said,” said Hadrian, still avoiding his eyes. He didn’t know why, but he felt that he should. Something in him was warning him from looking at the Headmaster. “Marcus and Cass shielded me from most of it, and once we managed to stagger it we just bombarded it with spells. All our friends helped too. Who knows what all those spells firing formed, but I didn’t have time to stand there looking at pretty blue balls. I was more focused on the troll and making sure it was down and away from us.”

“Brave thing you boys did,” said the Headmaster in praise.

“How did a troll get into the dungeons?” Marcus asked, logically.

“That is a question that needs an answer,” the Headmaster agreed. “Unfortunately we have yet to receive it.”

“Headmaster, you don’t think it was a distraction do you?” McGonagall gasped.

The Headmaster turned to look at her and Hadrian peaked up at them, noting McGonagall looked tense. “It very well could have been, Minerva. It will require further investigation. For now, I think the students should return to their dormitories unless they need to see Madam Pomfrey. I believe she can offer some calming draughts should they wish for them.”

“We’re fine.” Cass turned on his heel and drew Hadrian with him. “Let’s go.” He pulled Hadrian from Marcus.

Hadrian immediately went to his side.

“Boys!” McGonagall called when they reached the door. All of them turned, Headmaster Dumbeldore was still observing them. Curiosity in his face from what Hadrian could see without directly looking at him. “20 points each to Slytherin and 20 for Hufflepuff. I didn’t forget this time.” She offered him one of her rare smiles.

Hadrian decided then and there that he liked her. Light or not. He liked this woman. Hadrian cracked a smile. “I wouldn’t mind if you did, Professor.”

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirteen

“Do not make the mistake of thinking that you have to agree with people and their beliefs to defend them from injustice.”

― Bryant McGill, Voice of Reason

None of them spoke as they made their way stoically to Slytherin. Hadrian walked on his own, but he had Cassius and Marcus on both sides of him. He appreciated the silent support. He was feeling better now, but there was no way to know how long it would last before his energy crashed.

During the time they had been gone talking with McGonagall the dungeons had been partially repaired. It was likely that Flitwick had shown up and used charms around the area. The gate and parts of the wall had been destroyed completely, leaving nothing to repair the area with. At least not with a simple reparo spell. The area had been cordoned off by magical hanging ropes to keep students away from the most damaged areas. The kelpie fountain across from the common room entrance had been restored, but there was no water flowing from it. Hadrian was surprised that they didn’t come across any students in the hallways.

He frowned when he remembered that the Slytherin wall had not opened for him previously. Now the great snake rose up as it had always done. “It was sealed shut when the troll was chasing me.”

“Hm?” Cassius asked, turning to look at Hadrian.

“The common room entry. I was going to head in there when I was being chased. I figured that the common rooms are the most fortified areas of the school, being where students sleep, and that magic might prevent anything dangerous from entering or something. But, the snake doorway did not rise up like it should have.”

“That’s weird,” Marcus acknowledged.

“It could have been sealed by Hogwarts herself.” Cassius was frowning too, but he didn’t say what he was thinking.

Hadrian knew it would be smarter if he went to Hufflepuff. The Professors might be more diligent with everything that happened and he didn’t want any questions about his location. What if Snape came upon them? Hadrian was sure that the magic only worked when he was in the common room and dorms. Marcus seemed to be thinking this too because he was looking around before he gently guided Hadrian through the door to the bottom entry.

All their friends came rushing over to them as soon they made it to the top of the stairs. Even Draco had yet to go shower and change, though he only had some sand and pebbles in his perfect hair and a couple of dirt marks on his cheek and robes. Other Slytherin students were scattered about the room, eyes roving over the three who entered. Hadrian couldn’t tell if they were checking that they were alright or hoping to pick up information on what happened.

“Merlin, are you guys alright?” Blaise asked first and foremost. His eyes scanned over Hadrian first before flicking to Cassius and Marcus. Even Terry was shooting spells at them despite his limited knowledge to check for injuries. Hadrian recognized a monitoring spell being shot at Cassius who looked at the brunette in fond amusement.

“We’re fine,” Hadrian insisted. “McGonagall just wanted to check on us and confirm what happened without us being smothered by other students.”

Several students were questioning each other about the troll and how the bloody hell it got into the school. A lot of students were complaining about how it shouldn’t be a surprise with a negligent Headmaster.

“He’s of the Light, he wouldn’t give a shit what happens to us Slytherins,” muttered an upper year.

“Let’s get cleaned up,” said Marcus. All of them moved from the common room.

“What was that magic?” Draco asked Hadrian as they climbed the stairs.

“It felt like the magic from Diagon Alley, but bigger this time,” said Blaise when Marcus closed the door to the shared room for him, Cassius, and Adrian.

“Apparently, you could see it this time too,” Hadrian said and then shook his head. “I’m not sure. I know Hogwarts herself is on a massive bedrock of pure Ancient Magic. It doesn’t differentiate between Light and Dark. Not even Neutral. I know from Dad that everything she absorbs from students and professors she turns it into Ancient Magic too, adding to the wells.”

Cassius came over with some clothes from Marcus’ trunk. “Go clean up, sweetheart. We’ll take care of the rest.”

“Everyone should write home, the Headmaster can’t be allowed to hide something like this. Or delay it.” Graham said. “We can call one of our house-elves to take the letters.”

“Just use Phoebe,” Hadrian offered. “She’s shown up here before to deliver letters to Dad. I think she gets a little jealous of the owl Marcus bought me.”

“If she appears we’ll ask, sweetheart. But you need to get cleaned.” Cassius pressed a kiss to his forehead, ignoring the dust still there. “Marcus and I will as well.”

“You guys can use our rooms,” Blaise offered, making Draco groan. “Oh come on, you can wait. Look at them! If you really are upset, just remember you had plenty of time to do so before they returned.”

“Not with how long you took.”

“Magic made unbraiding and re-braiding my hair easy, but taking care of this amount of hair is hard. Fuck off.”

“Sorry. You’re right, I know. I’ll wait,” Draco puffed out.

“I don’t know what really happened or how it happened. Just glad it’s over,” Hadrian grumbled.

“But you know, trolls don’t just make their way into Hogwarts,” Graham pointed out as Hadrian closed the bathroom door.

They’d been right. He was covered from head to toe in black and gray stone. His hair was streaked with pebbles and crushed stone. The sweat that had come off him was gluing the rubble to his thick hair. He noted that some of it was slightly curling too.

He shook his head and set to undressing and showering. His heart, thankfully, was back at a normal rhythm. He hopped into the walk-in shower when he heard the door crack open behind him. He was unsurprised by Draco coming in. He wouldn’t be able to stand the dirtiness for long.

Well, at least that horrible Halloween feast ended up cut short and canceled. It’s always good to look at the bright side.

The next morning, the Troll Incident was all anyone could talk about. Many Hufflepuffs had approached him before he could cross to the Slytherin Table once he entered the Great Hall for breakfast. Cedric in particular had led the charge. It was also the first time the Weasley twins had approached him and asked him if he was alright. Oddly serious for the boys and then they proceeded to make Hadrian giggle despite Marcus grumbling and a lot of Slytherin eyerolls.

He was soon sequestered between Marcus and Cassius, Blaise grumbling about them stealing his seat. No one talked about the Troll Incident at their table. None needed to rehash what they’d seen or talk about it in the Great Hall where others could overhear them.

Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and Gryffindor weren’t the same.

Hadrian was just taking a bite of French toast and some bacon when the doors flew open. His hand froze on the fork and he blinked a couple of times when two figures stepped into the room. Their presence seemed to fill the Great Hall as every single student went quiet, turning to them, without prompt.

His dad was standing there, formidable and tall. He was wearing dark blue Unspeakable robes with the Department of Mysteries’ logo on the back, a silver wand surrounded by stars. His dark beard had grown out a couple inches since the start of the school year. Not so ridiculously long like Dumbledore, but it was shapely and prominent. Always well maintained now that babies weren’t grabbing at it and pulling out the hairs. You could see his curls shining in the light, the black hair with some tones of deep blue rather than red thanks to the candle lighting in Hogwarts.

Beside him was a smaller fellow with a forgettable presence dressed in the same robes. Hadrian knew of him. His name was Bode and he was old. No one knew how old, not even his dad, but the man suspected he was older than the Headmaster. He was a strictly neutral fellow.

They made their way through the center of the hall. His dad’s eyes stared straight ahead on the Headmaster who was now rising along with an invisible tension that spread through the Great Hall.

“Unspeakable Bode, Unspeakable Rookwood, what brings you to our fine school on such a lovely November day?” The Headmaster asked genially. Hadrian ignored any glances sent his way at the name.

“You shouldn’t pretend ignorance, Headmaster,” said Augustus, his voice was calm and firm but also cool at the same time.

“I was not informed by the Minister of your plans to arrive. I’m sorry, friends, if I’m surprised,” said the Headmaster.

“And neither of us were informed that a troll just so happened to make its way into Hogwarts on Samhain where children and my son,” he emphasized the ‘son’ part, “are supposed to be safely gaining their education. Since the school didn’t seem it pertinent to inform parents or the Board of Governors of this issue last night, you will excuse us if we do not offer an apology for our apparently surprising arrival.”

The Headmaster inclined his head to give way. “Professor McGonagall, would you please escort these two fine men to my office?”

“Yes, Headmaster.” She stepped down off the platform. “Right this way, Lord Rookwood, Sir Bode.”

“Hadrian.” It was all his dad had to say to get Hadrian was on his feet and crossing the room. He smiled at his dad when a hand touched his cheek and he was guided gently between his dad and Unspeakable Bode as they made for the exit. Oh, the gossip mill was going to love every bit of this.

No talk or discussion was had as they traversed the halls of Hogwarts. A couple of students late for breakfast froze in their path to the Great Hall. Eyes following the three adults and lone first year.

“Move along, Mr. Belby,” Professor McGonagall said crisply. She then turned over her shoulder to speak directly to Augustus. “Would you like to make use of my office to speak with your son for a moment in private?” she offered.

Augustus actually smiled at her. “Perhaps after, Professor.”

“Come now, Augustus. You’re not a student anymore. You can call me Minerva. You are an Unspeakable now. Not that anyone who has taught you should be surprised.”

“Habits can be hard to break from time to time.”

“Quite. You should be proud of your son. He has shown exemplary magic skill and great logic throughout this semester.”

“I have always been proud of him.” He squeezed Hadrian’s shoulder lovingly as they continued on their way beyond the Hospital Wing and up a large staircase that was tucked behind it. Hadrian had never been to this part of Hogwarts yet, even on the tour Adrian gave, and so it was all new to him. Soon, they came across a long corridor and at the very end was a tall gargoyle sitting in a curved enclave. “Sorbet Lemon,” McGonagall said to the gargoyle statue.

Hadrian watched in surprise as it sprang aside very willingly. Its open mouth and grin turned into a bit of a snarl though as it moved to reveal a fleet of revolving stairs that spiraled up through the open enclave. Hadrian twitched, “not fair. Gargoyles aren’t helpful to students.” His dad smiled slightly at this.

Hadrian was guided up first followed by his dad, silent Bode, and his Professor until they reached a solid door with a gold phoenix knocker. She bypassed it with a turn of the handle and Hadrian stepped into the Headmaster’s office for the first time.

It was impressive, but really everything in Hogwarts tended to be. The round office was packed with bookshelves and curious instruments. From magical globes that spun on their own to a small replica of the solar system. Hadrian spied the sorting hat on top of the bookshelf. It looked fast asleep, but that was not what caught his attention most.

What did was the absolutely gorgeous creature that sat by the walnut wood desk. Its plumage of scarlet feathers had Hadrian in awe. Its long sweeping tail almost touched the floor. Its face was stately and elegant as it chirruped.

“Oh…! A phoenix.” Hadrian gasped.

“Correct, Mr. Rookwood. Seems you might be heading for Care of Magical Creatures in third year.”

“Most certainly he is,” Augustus agreed as Hadrian crossed over, unable to help himself. “I should tell you about the black bear incident. I never thought I’d get my boy back after he met the ursula who thought she was his cub.”

“Oh, this I have to hear…” Was Hadrian being deceived or did she sound like she was gushing?

The elegant creature leaned its long neck forward and Hadrian took that as permission as he raised up and stroked it on the heads. The phoenix was soft and warm. Hadrian could feel the creature’s innate magic tickling at his fingers. It wasn’t Light magic. No. It was the same magic that called to him last night, the same magic that Hogwarts was seeped in. He wondered if all phoenixes were this way or if this one was special.

He didn’t care about the curious portraits of former Headmasters and Headmistresses snoring or sleeping in their frames. People were people after all and they were not eye catching like this phoenix. He was enraptured by it, and almost forgot about those behind him.

“His name is Fawkes and seems to have taken to you well, Mr. Rookwood,” the Headmaster’s voice carried through the room. “Phoenixes are fantastic creatures, they can carry immense loads and their tears have immense healing powers.”

“He’s lovely, Headmaster.”

The phoenix preened at the compliment. Hadrian reluctantly drew back.

“Come over and sit here, Mr. Rookwood, while the adults have a discussion.” Professor McGonagall was suddenly right there blocking the Headmaster’s access to him and vice versa. He was gently guided away to the further side of the room. She gave him a calm smile and he smiled back at her. She handed him a packet of maple sugar and cinnamon biscuits. Not the best idea for breakfast, but would be delicious nonetheless. He brightened and she turned, oddly enough casually standing in front of him.

“I was planning on reporting the incident to the Board of Governors, my fellow good wizards, but as you know it only just happened,” chuckled the Headmaster. “We are in the process of making sure the dungeons are secured and the rubble repaired. I am most surprised by the arrival of the Unspeakables so quickly.”

“I received an urgent letter early this morning regarding the incident and when I raised it to members of the Board first thing they had no knowledge of it. Obviously they were concerned, and since my son was directly involved, they asked if I wanted to handle it. I would have insisted either way,” said Augustus in his professional business voice. “I can’t help but wonder why the Defense teacher made such a panicky public outcry and not dealt with the matter herself. Is she not qualified to defend against a troll? Instead, she alerts the entire school of its presence and you just so happened to send the Hufflepuffs and Slytherins to one of the locations that the troll was suspected to be in. I will agree that the dungeons cover a wide area of the school and thus it may be hard to know what section was referred to. However, both houses are located in the dungeons and your decision endangered all students from both houses. Do you truly expect us not to act when we learn this information?”

“Professor Karen Dunn isn’t as young as she used to be. You cannot fault her for panicking.”

“Retired from the Muggle Liaison office where she had been for the last fifty years before taking up the position of Defense Against the Dark Arts professor. According to Ministry records she had an A in Defense and her best qualifications are for Muggle studies of which she had an O and Astronomy of which was an E.” Unspeakable Bode calmly stated as he glanced over the trinkets on the shelves.

“Could you not find a retired Auror or anyone from the DMLE office of the Ministry? How is a witch whose best subject was Muggle Studies, qualified for teaching Defense,” asked Augustus reproachfully. “The teachers at Hogwarts are supposed to be the first line of defense in ensuring the students’ safety.”

“I assure you their safety is always number one. It was an incident that is being looked into.” Dumbledore stated.

“Clearly not a priority,” said Augustus. “For the last ten years or more the teaching in Defense has been deplorable. One teacher after another has either been fired for inappropriateness or were not up to the task of teaching. None of them had proper qualifications in Defense. You even brought one in five years ago with a T in Defense, Headmaster.”

“Everyone deserves a chance, Lord Rookwood. You know as well as I do, you don’t stop learning once you leave Hogwarts.”

“Not at the expense of students’ safety and lives, Headmaster.”

“Now that is a bit much. It was one incident.”

“One is all it takes for a life to be lost. Was it not in this very school, fifty years ago, where a young child perished in the bathrooms?”

“I was not Headmaster then.”

“But you were Deputy Headmaster and you were there.”

“I must have been doing something right. Mr. Rookwood and his young Slytherin friends handled the troll impeccably or so I am told by many witnesses.”

“That is not their job,” said Bode flatly. “It is the job of the teachers and those here at the school. Not the job of students. No matter how skilled they may be.”

Augustus followed up with, “learning is why they are here. Now, the Board of Governors have allowed this defect to go on for long enough, but this is the last straw.”

“You need a majority vote for any changes in Hogwarts, fellas, and from what I recall the Head of the Board of Governors is Augusta Longbottom.”

“Not anymore.” Hadrian could hear the smirk in his dad’s voice. “Since Lord Morpheus Flint was voted onto the board last week that tips the vote and favor. In an emergency meeting this morning she was ousted when she attempted to stand in the way of an investigation.”

Hadrian looked around the Transfiguration Professor to see the Professor Dumbledore’s eyes widening. Huh. McGonagall was still blocking him. He really wished she’d move so he had a front row seat of the action.

“Who is the new head?” asked the Headmaster cautiously.

“Lord Lucius Malfoy,” Bode answered. “Lady Longbottom’s ineffectiveness to act promptly in the last ten years to requests and demands have finally come to an end.”

“And the Minister of Magic signed off on this?”

“He did.” Bode produced a sealed scroll with a ribbon around it. “All here.”

“I feel, gentlemen, that this decision is a grave mistake. Lord Lucius Malfoy is an exacting man for sure, but he cannot be trusted to think of the students’ future.”

“Lady Longbottom has already expired her chance to prove that she does. One only needs to look at the current grades of Heir Neville Longbottom and the grades of Heir Draco Malfoy. It seems that no matter anyone’s opinion on Lord Malfoy, his son at least has a well rounded education and drive to do well given that his grades are nearly top of his year. All the knowledge and information speaks for itself, Headmaster. In the end, she chose not to act and now someone else gets that chance.”

“I do not think you two understand what a mistake you are making. The Light-”

“Save it, Headmaster.” Augustus made a motion of holding up his hand. “Neither of us care about the feud going on between the Light and the Dark.”

“Neutrality is where we are standing and exacting our decisions,” said Bode. “For the last hundred years the Light and the Dark have been playing games back and forth. I’ve seen that and more. Neither seems to be doing anyone any favors and so now here we are. I’m far older than you, Headmaster. You were born when I finished Hogwarts and joined the Unspeakables. I do not have the taste for the games that you lot play with each other. Especially when it starts to affect the children who will one day grow up to be adults themselves.”

“If they even have the chance to grow.” Hadrian hid a snicker at how much his dad sounded like Lucius in that line. “Are you aware, Headmaster, that in the last seventeen years there has not been a single student that came from this school who has the qualifications to join the Unspeakables? Not one of them has met even the most basic requirement. I was the last Hogwarts alum to do so, and the one who we thought might have been good enough didn’t last more than six months before she was fired. Unspeakable Bode is not getting any younger and neither am I for that matter. It would have been nice to take an early retirement so I could spend more time with my son, but there is simply no one qualified.”

“Have you perhaps considered lowering your qualifications? You lot are rather picky after all,” He chuckled as if he’d made a joke.

“Headmaster!” Professor McGonagall interjected. “Now don’t go sounding petulant like a student. You know the Unspeakables must have those qualifications otherwise they risk not only their own lives but those around them by playing with magics that most would never understand. They are not the first to bring these matters to you. I do believe Professor Flitwick and I have made it loud and clear how we feel on the matter of the education in Defense the students are receiving.”

“Not now, Minerva.”

“Don’t you ‘not now’ me! I am the Deputy Headmistress, not Severus Snape. You’ve been running half of your decisions by that man, who is barely out of his teenage years and made a Professor at the school only ten years ago!”

“Professor Severus Snape has been an invaluable addition to the school. His Mastery in Potions-”

“Not mastery in students, clearly, Headmaster,” Professor McGonagall sounded passionate right then. “He’s more like a teenager taking advantage of his authority. You do not order three fourths of the school to complete twice the amount of homework because you’re a good exacting teacher with their interests at heart. You do it because you are immature and full of folly.” She made a noise. “And let’s not even begin to touch on the farce we call History of Magic. It’s become more of a - what do those Muggleborns call it? ‘Independent Study Hall’,” she snapped sourly. “There have been many complaints from students in all years about that class and the horsing around that happens.”

Hadrian had to literally put his fist into his mouth to stop the giggles from escaping because Blaise and his seventh year Slytherin popped into his head. He made a snerk sound causing Professor McGonagall to relax and look over her shoulder at him. He was almost crying, he was quietly laughing so hard. He shook his head in apology at her. “Eat your biscuits,” she told him, her lips twitching.

“I’m thirsty…” He managed to shudder out. She called for a house-elf immediately, and he was given a nice tall goblet of fresh milk. He thanked her and sipped at it while wiping the tears with his sleeve.

Hadrian honestly didn’t know why he was a part of this discussion. Maybe it was so he could carry this information back to his friends without it getting lost in gossip and translation. Or maybe his dad just wanted him there to learn something or even to check that he was alright in a subtle manner.

“It seems that your Deputy and some teachers are in agreement with us and the Board,” said Augustus, bringing the matter back full circle. “Even your teachers are outvoting you, Headmaster. In the coming days you will be receiving some intense feedback into the education here at Hogwarts. Do not be surprised when things begin to change because I assure you they will.” He then turned to Bode. “Is that all we need to say?”

“It is. You can spend some time with your son and take the good Professor up on her offer. It isn’t every day that an Unspeakable gets the opportunity to have such a precious gift.”

“You will be given a chance, Headmaster, to rectify this situation,” said Augustus. “By the end of the year you will replace Karen Dunn and find a qualified person to teach the Defense classes. You will seek out a new teacher who has at least an E in th. Surely it shouldn’t be hard to find someone given the ‘excellent’ education being provided. If need be, you may even stretch your inquiry to our neighboring countries if you must. We will speak more later about the Troll Incident as a separate matter when the Board of Governors meet over Yule.”

The Headmaster let out a sigh. “I thank you for giving me a chance to rectify the situation, Lord Rookwood.”

“I do not like deposing of venerable Headmasters or Headmistresses. I had hoped that would never happen. Do not make me regret my choice in remaining a neutral party.”

“Neutral? You believe that to be so? Believe yourself to be a neutral party?” Hadrian could hear the underlying note of sarcasm. A taunt and Hadrian frowned at this.

“You don’t have to be a Muggleborn to be Neutral, Headmaster. We will dismiss ourselves now. Hadrian, walk with me.”

Hadrian quickly got to his feet.

“I will excuse you from your classes this morning, Mr. Rookwood,” said Professor McGonagall, turning and banishing the half empty goblet.

“Thank you, Professor.” He took his dad’s hand and they made their way out with Unspeakable Bode. Professor McGonagall stayed behind.

Hadrian would love to be that fly on the wall. It looked like Professor McGonagall must have been building up for some time and her tolerance was tipping over.

As the gargoyle closed behind them, Bode turned and inclined his head. “I’ll take my leave now, Augustus. It’s nice to see you again, Hadrian.” He held out his hand.

“You too, Mr. Bode.” It was old and wrinkly, felt like thin parchment that had been crinkled too much.

“Congratulations on your sorting into Hufflepuff. It does well to stay in the middle. I’m going to go have a look at the damage the troll caused.” He winked and started off taking down another wing that suddenly appeared from a blank stretch of wall.

He must know all the secrets, Hadrian thought watching him go. He smiled and looked up when his dad’s hand ran through his hair. “Come on, let’s head to Slytherin for a chat. We’ll take the longer route.”

Neither of them spoke as they made their way back to the dungeons. Most of the students were in classes now meaning the halls were empty and silent. Checking his watch, Hadrian saw that it was coming upon ten o’ clock. He wasn’t missing anything important. Most of the first year students were on the ground for their second flying lesson of the year. He didn’t need to see anymore Hufflepuff’s tumbling off their brooms, though he’d been impressed by the artistic display in which Justin Finch-Fletchley had landed. Draco had enjoyed telling Hadrian about Longbottom’s fall during the first week of classes. The boy apparently had a remembrall on him at the time that broke when he fell.

Slytherin’s wall opened for him and they made their way up to the empty common room. Hadrian twitched. “I have to pee again. Stop that,” he said to the tinkling fountain.

Augustus chuckled. “Many tend to remember the need when they pass by. Do not tell anyone I told you this, but Theodore actually wet his trousers once.”

Hadrian burst out laughing and grinned. “I can’t promise not to tell, but I’ll try. Who knows if the crushing weight of Theo’s house will have me saying something to make him smile or laugh.”

“Indeed.” He then dropped his smile as they sat together on the couch. “Are you alright?”

Hadrian nodded. “Yes. It was scary, but Cass and Marcus were there.”

“Yes, I got detailed letters from everyone,” said Augustus, stroking his cheek. “Your Phoebe was quite insistent that I wake up in the middle of the night to read them and then pass the relevant ones on to everyone else’s parents.”

Hadrian smiled at that. Phoebe usually only ever appeared before him. “My magic reacted oddly again.”

“I was written about that too. How do you feel about it?”

“Just glad it saved us. I thought Cass was about to die. I felt it…” He bowed his head. “I can’t have that…” His eyes went wide as the fear from last night came back to him. A couple tears began to sting his eyes. “Merlin - no!” He shook his head wildly. He could feel the panic rise in him like a serpent.

“No, you can’t,” said Augustus, pulling Hadrian into him to calm him down.

Hadrian snuggled up against his father. “I’ll do anything for my friends.” He shuddered as he pushed that feeling back down. He didn’t like the thought of losing any of them. Not one bit.

“I know. That’s why I’m so proud you are a Hufflepuff,” Augustus bent down and kissed him on the head, “and not the least surprised.”

“You really are?” Hadrian asked, feeling a bit shy about it.

“I am. It warms me to know that I was able to raise such a sweet and loyal child, who knows what is most important. More important than knowledge. More important than power.” He sounded a bit rough too. Augustus stroked down Hadrian’s side as he held him closer. “Most would have thought it impossible. We are Dark - that’s what we are. It’s natural to us, right? But you defy that expectation. You’ve taught an entire Dark generation that that is not the way it has to be. I’ve always known it or suspected it, but I could never prove it.”

“That’s why we’re not Slytherins,” said Hadrian softly. “We have to show them that they are better than their ancestors and even parents. Show them we’re not all Riddles.”

“Exactly.”

Hadrian raised up and then he smiled at the glassy look in his father’s eye. A devious tickle in his chest had him leaning up and biting at the end of his dad’s furry beard, just like he had as a baby. Augustus burst out laughing and squeezed him all the tighter as Hadrian turned and rubbed his face up against the beard. His dad rocked him back and forth gently making Hadrian giggle.

He really missed his dad.

Chapter Text

Chapter Fourteen

“Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored.”

― Aldous Huxley, Complete Essays, Vol. II: 1926-1929

Saturday morning dawned cold and wet. All of Slytherin was rather quiet. At least all of Hadrian’s friends were since half of them were preparing for the Quidditch match. Marcus wasn’t even his usual self.

Hadrian stole one of Marcus’ green and silver jumpers, and didn’t bother to have it shrunken down for him as he slipped it on. It was soft and cozy, made of wool with only enough cotton to keep the wool from being scratchy. He didn’t even bother with putting a shirt on underneath. Marcus had frozen when he saw that Hadrian was nearly swallowed in it. It went down to his knees. Cassius smirked and Adrian chuckled. “That is the cutest thing I’ve ever fuckin’ seen.”

“You don’t mind?” Hadrian asked, looking up at Marcus.

“No, baby. I don’t.”

He wore black perfectly fitted trousers that clung to him and went down into his boots. It was warm enough he did not need his robes or a winter cloak. He didn’t mind this jumper hanging off his shoulder from time to time. Hadrian could feel the layers of charms woven into it and smell Marcus. It smelled like a solid sturdy oak tree, one that had been standing for centuries and would still stand no matter what elements took it on. He laughed and had to bunch the sleeves up over his thin wrist. He was excited to root for his boys and Marcus as Captain. It was his first game as Captain.

He’d slept the night before on Marcus. The teen hadn’t slept well and Hadrian had spent the night rubbing his arms, trying to soothe him.

“We’ve got this, Marcus. It’s Ravenclaw after all,” Cassius pointed out.

“New girl is good,” he grunted. “Terry isn’t as good in the Seeker role.”

“But the rest of the team is rock solid,” Adrian pointed out.

“Maybe I can help train Draco over summer,” said Hadrian. “You should all come to Feldcroft. I bet Dad could set up a Quidditch Pitch somewhere in the fields.”

“That’s not a bad idea,” said Cass. “Get some good practice in.”

Marcus nodded, liking the way that sounded. Hadrian finished with his hair. “You can seek?” asked Marcus.

“Yes. I’m better than Draco,” Hadrian confessed.

“But you don’t want to play?” asked Adrian in confirmation. It wasn’t a concept that they could wrap their heads around easily.

“No. Not really. I mean I like playing with you guys, but I prefer to watch. I love to fly, don’t get me wrong. It’s one of the best feelings in the world,” he told them.

“All for the better, I wouldn’t want to see him get hit with Bludgers,” said Cass.

“I don’t want to be hit with them either,” Hadrian agreed. “I prefer to be in the stands and watch you guys. Much more fun!”

Cassius swooped around him from behind making Hadrian laugh as the others came out of their rooms. Cassius walked with Hadrian in front of him, which would have been awkward if it wasn’t something they had done a lot when they were younger. Hadrian used to stand on the older boys’ feet and they’d walk or dance around. It was also how he learned his limited dance skills.

Blaise laughed when he saw Hadrian sporting Marcus’ jumper. “I’m surprised there’s any of you left.”

“It’s not that big.”

“It wasn’t the jumper eating you that I meant.” He grinned salaciously over Hadrian’s head at Marcus. “I can see you didn’t bother with a shirt under all that either.”

“You going to be warm enough in that?” Graham asked.

“I will.”

“I brought a spare cloak he can use just in case,” said Adrian.

“What did you mean by that? If the jumper isn’t eating me, what is?” Hadrian asked, making Cassius hide a laugh in the back of his head.

Blaise outright cackled mockingly. Marcus reached a hand around and shoved the boy. “Shut it and move along, Zabini.”

Theo was grumpy when they met him at the Slytherin table. “What’s wrong?” Hadrian asked.

“Unlike your fair Hufflepuffs, the Ravenclaws are upset that I won’t root for them. I don’t even care about Quidditch. I’m just rooting for my friends.”

“With your nose in a book,” Draco added.

“Naturally. I’ve come prepared with a new book covering magical history on the Continent.”

Hedwig came by the Slytherin Table for a morning pet and some free bacon. It’d taken Hadrian a month or so before he settled on a name that sounded right. He’d had her in Slytherin going through a list of names and most of his friends had watched as she gave loud indignant sounds to ones she did not prefer and then when Hadrian said ‘Hedwig’, she had preened and soared up into the air elegantly. So her name became Hedwig. She always gave him affectionate nips and he’d sent a letter to his dad so that he could meet her. He’d sent Hadrian back some premium high quality owl treats in return.

Graham, Blaise, Draco, and Theo went to hold some premiere seats for them as Hadrian went with the Slytherin Quidditch Players. He wanted to walk with them to the lockers. He could feel their tenseness and Terry looked a bit solemn.

Hadrian moved and linked arms with him. The brunette looked at him. “I’m going to screw this up,” whispered.

“No you won’t,” said Hadrian, shaking his head.

“I don’t want to let Marcus down.”

“You won’t.” Hadrian leaned up and kissed him on the cheek. “Good luck.”

He received hugs and squeezes from the boys before he made his way toward the stands through the wet grass. It rained yesterday and last night. His boots thankfully protected his feet leaving him nice and toasty. Nearly every student and teacher were making their way to the wrap around stands. Hadrian spied Professor McGonagall in the teacher’s box with the Weasley twins’ friend. Jordan, Hadrian thought his name was. Lee Jordan. This was the boy’s first year as official school Quidditch announcer, the last announcer having graduated last year. It would be interesting to see how he did.

“Come on, Hadrian!” Cassius had given him his Slytherin scarf when he left the guys at the locker rooms, worried about Hadrian getting cold. It was wrapped snugly around his neck and the faint smell of whiskey that he always defined as a Cassius’ scent went into his nose. Blaise held his hand out for Hadrian as he stepped up into the stands and he was soon sequestered between Blaise and Draco. Blaise was on the end with Theo beside Draco. Graham had taken a seat behind the four, ready with Adrian’s extra cloak if Hadrian showed any indication of being cold. Theo had his book ready and poised. He was also wearing Draco’s spare Slytherin scarf beneath his school robes.

Madam Hooch stood in the center of the Quidditch Pitch, and they were sitting low enough that he could see her deep gold hawk-like eyes. He’d found them quite interesting and when she’d passed by him during their first flying lesson, he noted that she felt like she was Dark aligned. He wondered if there was a connection with eye colors and magic affinity? It would not surprise him. His father used to always say that the eyes were the windows into the soul. He hadn’t understood what that meant at the time, but he was coming to understand now.

All of the Slytherins let out a roar and got to their feet when the Slytherin team was called out onto the Pitch. Hadrian had to stand on his seat to be seen. It was the only time you’d see him getting overly loud and rowdy in public.

On a delay, Theo raised his head from his book. “Go, Slytherin!” He punched in the air causing Hadrian to giggle when he flopped gracefully back down.

“You better be making notes of interesting things for all of us,” Hadrian teased him.

“Already done so with what I’ve read so far,” said Theo. “Father wasn’t too pleased about me being in Ravenclaw. Mother seemed indifferent about it. He seemed confused about how it was possible that he didn’t raise a Slytherin. Your father put him right for me and sent me a letter of congratulations.”

“That sounds like Dad. He’s said that he’s the Ravenclaw of his friend group and that all Slytherins end up with a Ravenclaw friend or two at some point. Rodolphus wondered if that would be me, but it looks like it was destined to be you.”

A lot of students rooted for Ravenclaw, most of the school in fact, but he had noticed that some of the Hufflepuff’s had cheered a bit louder for Slytherin this time around.

“Now, I want a good clean match - from all of you!” Madam Hooch’s voice was amplified for all to hear.

Hadrian leaned forward to try and get a better view of Marcus and the Ravenclaw seventh year girl that were ordered to shake hands. It looked to him like Marcus was trying to cut the circulation off her hand. She had grimaced as she pulled back and shook out her hand.

It didn’t take long after the players and the balls were in the air for it to get dirty fast. The Slytherins moved fast and hard and scored the first goal within the first few minutes. Hadrian watched the boys in the sky, their green robes flapping as Cassius intercepted the Quaffle when a Ravenclaw Chaser tried to pass it.

Adrian slammed a Bludger toward the one behind Cassius causing him to drop a few feet. Cassius streaked across the field toward the Keeper, he shot and scored their second goal.

Marcus caught several of the Quaffles, but it wasn’t all seamless as it sounded. One of the Ravenclaws got frustrated and sent a Bludger smacking into Terry’s broom when he was passing by Marcus causing him to whirl in the air.

“FOUL!” Everyone cried as Lee Jordan shouted about the foul.

Marcus had grabbed the end of Terry’s broom mid-swirl to stop it going off course causing him to miss two Quaffle shots by Roger Davies and Ravenclaw finally got the score on the board. But Slytherin earned a foul shot and Cass scored again bringing them up 40-20.

Hadrian spotted a black haired asian girl in Ravenclaw colors. She was small and willowy riding upon a Nimbus 2000. She was searching the skies and veering skillfully away from any Bludger that might come for her. He was not a real judge, but considering how effortlessly she was flying Hadrian was going to guess that she was a natural flier. Marcus did not say someone was good and not mean it after all.

“Cho Chang,” Theo said, only briefly raising his eyes. “She’s a second year Ravenclaw. Claims every girl in her family was a famous Quidditch Player at some point. Even if it was for a single season.”

“I thought she looked skilled.”

“Yes, she knows the playbook as much as Marcus. But she’s reserved and so if Terry can frighten her that would knock her off her game.”

“That’s Adrian’s job,” Hadrian chuckled and Theo hummed in agreement.

Terry was actually the gentlest of all the Slytherin players, who could all come off as rough and abrasive at times. Terry wasn’t like that. People also always assumed Adrian would be meek given his love of Herbology. Hadrian wondered how many would keep that assumption after seeing him in the air with a beater bat.

Fouls and volleys of the Quaffle had the Ravenclaws tightening up their ranks, making it difficult for the Chasers to cut through. Lee Jordan was a pretty funny bloke and during the constant circling the players were doing, trying to find openings, he would tell jokes. Professor McGonagall did not appreciate the joke about a giant and his love of a fairy if her shout was any indication. Even Blaise laughed while Draco made a noise of disgust while also snickering.

Something gold flickered out of the corner of Hadrian’s eyes causing his eyes to snap up toward the dim sunlight hidden beyond the graying clouds. He saw it then, hovering below Marcus’ foot.

“Oh, oh!” Hadrian clamored onto his seat and placed his fingers between his lips. He gave a long drawn out whistle that caused Blaise and Draco to squawk and snap their hands to their ears. “You got this Marcus!” He shouted, confusing everyone. Marcus had been sitting, giving Adrian directions while their Chasers tried to score. The shout caused everyone to look toward Marcus.

He’d learned how to whistle a few years ago. He had been visiting one of the witches who looked after their highland cows and she taught him how to use a whistle to herd the cows to pasture. He sometimes used it to call Phoebe who could hear him from very far away.

Terry saw Hadrian’s hint first and dived. A second later Chang did as well and she flattened across her broom, zooming from the far end of the pitch where she had been looking. Marcus, finding the Snitch, kicked at it before it could fly off and it went zooming right into Terry’s path. He snatched it as Cho Chang finally reached him and the game was called.

“And Slytherin wins! 190-40!”

“Bloody hell. Warn a boy next time, Hadrian.” Blaise grumbled as he dropped his hands to clap in celebration. Theo had been so surprised that he dropped his book.

“Sorry!” Hadrian jumped excitedly down the stairs and out of the stands, like many Slytherins, onto the wet grass. He jumped the last over the last few steps and landed perfectly. As he raced out onto the field, all the players came flying down to the ground.

Marcus reached one burly arm out as he continued to speed up right into Hadrian’s path and snatched the young noir around the waist. The teen hoisted Hadrian onto the front of his broom before Terry could as they sped off up and around the Quidditch Pitch in a victory lap. Hadrian laughed as the sharp cold wind tried to cut through him. It didn’t stand a chance between Marcus’ sweater and his warm body curled around Hadrian. He wasn’t worried about Marcus dropping him off of the broom and held his arms out in joy. He really did love flying through the air. The rest of the team quickly caught up to them and joined their laps around the field.

“Great job, baby!” Marcus rumbled against him, leaning forward to kiss his neck.

“No. You did a great job. All I did was see gold.”

“That’s because you are gold.”

Hadrian preened. “Fly me to the moon!” He ordered, raising his fist into the air.

“Sure.” He flew high and then dropped them backwards all of a sudden making Hadrian laugh because he liked being high up and the feeling of falling was thrilling. Hadrian let out a shout of glee with his hands in the air. He trusted Marcus’ grip on his waist.

“Drop me!” He said seeing Cass come close. With a grin, Marcus released his grip and Hadrian fell a few feet. He squealed with delight as the rush of cold wind rushed him. He swung hold of Cassius’ outstretched hand, his smile wide and full of excitement. He was pulled onto the other’s broom smoothly. It was a move they had done many times before and Hadrian wasn’t worried about missing Cassius’ hand. They’d never let him fall for long. If Cassius missed then Adrian would have caught him. He had full faith in his friends and their flying abilities. He heard the belated shouts of anyone who had been watching, but Hadrian hadn’t been scared. Not one single bit.

“Hi there.” Hadrian grinned.

Cassius let out a chuckle. “Sweetheart.” He held one hand firmly on Hadrian who shifted around to face Cassius, easily ignoring the feet of empty air beneath them. Hadrian’s breath caught when he found Cassius’ face so close to his, full of excitement from winning, and he reacted without thought. Hadrian pressed his mouth to Cassius’ lips. There and gone in a flash, it was soft and lasted barely a second, but that second was enough. Cassius froze, expression changing from excitement to surprise at the brush of contact exchanged between them.

Hadrian drew back, blushing lightly, and he turned to face the front of the broom. Brushing off what he did and the downright stunned expression on Cassius’ frozen face, he leaned back and said, “Take me away, cowboy.”

The blond teen said nothing, simply tightened his arm and flew.

A party raged through Slytherin all night long. Someone had snuck some whiskeys and wines into the common room. Hadrian didn’t know who, but really it didn’t matter. That night saw many upper years getting drunk while ensuring the younger students didn’t have too much. Many lamented that most of the team was too young and they couldn’t go all out in celebration. However, everyone had a great time. Terry claimed Hadrian that night, saying it was all thanks to him that they won. Insisted on cuddling with his ‘little helper’ overnight.

All of the following week it seemed the Slytherins were in high spirits. The dungeons had finally been fully restored back to their original state, even down to the old rusty gate that divided Slytherin and Hufflepuff. Hadrian would have thought they’d put a new one in. Apparently not.

Rain followed the Quidditch match for the rest of the week. Some mornings would be almost night with how dark the skies became. Lightning would streak and stretch across the vast open world and the thunder would follow along as the rain fell heavier. It was perfect cuddling weather however and Blaise and Hadrian could often be found cuddled together before a fire while working on their homework. Draco and Theo insisted on using proper tables to work at, but the others would sometimes join Blaise and Hadrian on the couch.

Rumors flew in the next few days that a group of first year Gryffindors had gotten themselves stuck on the third floor corridor that was forbidden. To Hadrian this seemed odd because not even the Weasley twins or the rare daring Ravenclaws who knew more magic could penetrate the barrier that closed off the third floor corridor.

He highly doubted that Longbottom and Weasley knew that kind of magic. So how did that happen? It shouldn’t be a Hadrian problem, but it felt like something had changed after the troll incident. He didn’t know what though.

Maybe it was him finally waking up and realizing that the world wasn’t the most safe place to be in. Hadrian already knew this from adventuring through caves and wooded forests around Rookwood Castle, but that hadn’t been by the hands of humans interfering. He hadn’t understood his dad’s warnings until now.

He sat in the back of the library with his back to the window one afternoon. He could feel the rumble and the lightning that flashed behind him. The rain slapped and spilled down the window in a failed attempt at getting at him.

Some of the teachers had wanted to cancel the Quidditch match between Hufflepuff and Gryffindor the week before, but both houses adamantly refused and Madam Hooch took their side on the matter. Professional Quidditch players played in rainstorms all the time, students should too.

Shockingly, he was all alone. Draco had a detention for hexing Weasley and Smith, and getting caught doing so. Blaise was off doing Merlin knew what. Adrian, Terry, and Cassius were down at the greenhouses working on some extra credit planting with Professor Sprout. Graham was getting some help from Marcus with Ancient Runes. He wasn’t sure where Theo was though.

Hadrian was in a back section of the library, leg crossed over his knee and watching those who spilled in and out of the library. He should be working on his Potions essay, but he needed a bit of a mental break so was partaking in harmless people watching. Madam Pince was hissing whenever one of the students came in soaked and dripped on her floors.

Currently, he was observing Granger who seemed to group herself with the very boys that had sent her crying into the lavatories often. He hadn’t meant to notice them, but he was the son of a Ravenclaw. It looked like their heads were bowed together over a book and they were whispering furiously.

He noted that Thomas and Finnegan weren’t a part of the group. No one noticed him and he saw now why Bode had said being in the middle was more often a better choice than being at the front or the back. People sometimes forgot about him if he wasn’t with his friends.

He had another reason for not being around his friends just then. That was because ever since the troll, Hadrian had started feeling stronger magics around the school. More so than just the castle. He noticed there were trails and spots of that Ancient Magic, like it was gathering somewhere in the castle independent of the castle’s usual magic.

“Doesn’t make sense,” he heard Weasley’s loud voice.

“Let’s go talk to Hagrid then,” said Granger, imperiously. “Maybe he knows something.”

“You don’t really think he would tell us anything do you?” asked Longbottom.

“He likes to talk even when he’s not supposed to,” Granger smiled. “He escorted me to the train since my parents couldn’t and he liked to talk a lot of randomness that most would call senseless. But I found it rather useful.”

“Can’t hurt,” said Smith. “I’d rather do that than sit here in this stuffy library reading.”

“You could do with a bit of light reading, Zacharias,” Granger lectured gently.

“What for when we have you now?” Smith said, causing the boys to laugh and Granger’s cheeks to pink. “You’re better than any book, Hermione.”

“Well…” She seemed to be gushing over the praise. “Let’s go!” She cleared her throat as she slammed the book shut. “Put this back.”

Longbottom took the book. Hadrian thought it looked like an older version of the History of Magic textbook. “I wonder though, why would Flamel let the Headmaster borrow it? Isn’t it like the most valuable magical object in history?”

“He’s the Headmaster, the Light Lord of the magical world,” Granger added succinctly. “Of course he’d trust him with it.”

“It did say they were friends.”

Flamel? Hadrian hummed to himself as he watched the Gryffindors gather their things.

“Oh, no it’s so stormy out. Do we have to go now?” Smith complained.

“Maybe it can wait a night. Let’s go finish our Transfiguration homework.”

“Or we can brave the storm, sounds funner,” said Weasley cheerfully.

“Funner is not a word, Ronald,” she chided patiently.

“It is when Fred and George are around, even funner when Percy hears them.”

All of them laughed, but Granger just shook her head.

Hadrian rose once the students left and he went around to where Longbottom had put the book back. He ran his fingers along the spines until he felt the remnants of strong Light magic. He pulled the History book off the shelf, noting it was warm from having been touched.

Lucky for him, a lot of people don’t care about abusing books because he could feel the indent when Granger had placed her thumb between the book’s pages and then closed it at some point. Theo did that too when he wanted to save a place without earmarking but he preferred to use a bookmark.

He opened it up to read that Nicholas Flamel was the only known maker of the fabled Philosopher’s Stone. A stone said to have unusual properties that could grant one an obscene amount of gold by transforming bland baseless metals into gold and was even used in the making of the Elixir of Life which gave the drinker immortality. Nicholas and his wife were apparently over six hundred years old.

Hadrian frowned at the pages. But why? He couldn’t help but wonder. If that really was what was on the third floor being guarded, why was it here? Why wouldn’t the Flamels keep it? Why had Dumbledore announced it at the beginning of the year and why if it had been there this whole time was he feeling it more strongly now?

Something wasn’t right about this. He then recalled his dad mentioning that Gringotts had been robbed. Nothing was taken but an hour before the breakin the Groundskeeper, Hagrid, had been there and removed something from the same high security vault that the thief had broken into. Did the Headmaster know that it was going to be robbed?

He stood there for the longest time in contemplation, but he couldn’t quite link this puzzle together. He supposed the best he could do was go and look for himself. He thought maybe the boys had approached Granger because she was an incredibly intelligent witch. No matter her blood, she was smart and they were not. Maybe they asked her for help since she was always in the library. A lonely Muggleborn who couldn’t really make friends and was too smart for her own good would jump at it. He at least hoped they apologized for being bastards.

Hadrian nearly got the scare of his life, and later he would deny that he had yelped and jumped a foot in the air, when two boys popped up on either side of him.

“Merlin’s balls on a stick!” Hadrian quietly spilled out Marcus’ language, remembering he was in the Library, causing both boys to start chuckling at him. A good hearty chuckle that rolled from one to the other. “You boys need bells on or something.”

“Good idea,” said the first one.

“We’ll do that and see how far we can go before Filch notices.”

“It’s not Filch you have to worry about. It’s that cat, but you would know that wouldn’t you, sweet cute little Hufflepuff?”

“Cracking mark you left on our baby brother!”

“No doubt deserved. He can be an aggravating braggart.”

“But he’s still not as bad as Percy.”

“None are as bad as Percy.”

“Ah, but where are our manners?”

“Lost I imagine,” Hadrian quipped.

Both were still grinning at him. “Allow us to properly introduce ourselves. I am Fred Weasley!” He bowed and Hadrian noticed he had a G jumper on.

“And I - am the better looking George Weasley!”

“Hadrian Rookwood.”

“Yes, the Slytherins’ sweet little badger. Do you taste like honey?” Fred asked, tilting his head.

“We would ask for a taste but I have a feeling Flint might try and rearrange our heads if we did and we rather like them where they are thanks.”

“But if our heads were removed we’d be able to join Nearly Headless Nick on his escapades.”

“Oh no, you’re forgetting Fred, he was banned from joining because he’s only ‘nearly’. We’d be completely and utterly headless.”

“Make for an interesting change of scenery.”

Hadrian couldn’t control the laugh that spilled out of his mouth. He brought the book to his face so that Madam Pince didn’t hear him. Hadrian had the book in front of his face and lowered it so that he only saw them with his eyes. Both seemed quite pleased with themselves.

“He certainly is adorable,” said Fred.

“I wish our brother was this cute.”

“That would be creepy, George.”

“Not any creepier than we can already be.” George wiggled his brows causing Hadrian’s face to tense as his mouth began to ache.

“Wh-what can I do for you boys?” Hadrian asked, looking from one side to the other.

“Oh, but sweet 'Puff, it’s not what you can do for us, but what we can do for you,” said Fred, turning and leaning against the bookshelf next to Hadrian, crossing his arms. “There is no one in this school who knows more about the ins and outs of this castle than we do.”

“You heard that right. We know everything about Hogwarts and her secrets. At least, we’re sure we do.” George mimicked Fred and Hadrian stepped out from between the two to observe them.

“What’s in it for you?” Hadrian asked.

“Ooh, good question,” said George.

“Remarkable question. You’re not a random first year. But then you can’t be if you’re a ‘Puff and you have all the Slytherins wrapped around your finger.”

“Cute finger it is.”

“I do not, we’ve always been friends,” Hadrian defended.

“Still, it takes a lot to move a Slytherin.”

“We’re not like our family or our house,” said Fred, shifting just a bit so his shoulder pressed to the books.

“Don’t know why either. We just came out different.”

Hadrian’s eyes narrowed at them on instinct. He reached out with his senses and his eyes widened when he noted that they were not Light wizards, not like the other Weasleys. “How is that possible?” Hadrian whispered more to himself. “But even still… what is in it for you?”

“Maximum amount of chaos,” George answered him.

Fred nodded in time. “We know something very valuable. We’re sure you want to know it and we think you’re the sweet honey that will make the cauldron explode. It’s shaping up to be a fun few years.”

“You want chaos?” He reiterated to the boys, head tilting, and they nodded. “And that’s going against everything that your family is?” He posed it as a question.

They nodded again. “We are what we are,” said Fred.

“We can’t be anything else. I tried for a day, it didn’t work out the way I intended,” George followed up. “Besides, do you know how hard we have to work to keep from getting ill?”

“Ill?”

“It’s stifling at home and in Gryffindor Tower, so we have to get our drink of choice where we can, and that happens to be Lady Hogwarts herself.”

“You haven’t seen Gryffindor and Slytherin go at it yet on the Pitch,” Fred said slyly. “There’s a reason we sometimes go too far.”

“How do I know this isn’t a ploy?”

“You don’t,” said George shrugging. “We’re not trying to convince you of anything.”

“We just want to take part, little Rookwood. We can feel you are at the epi-center of the very alignment that has been denied to us.”

Hadrian considered this. He still didn’t trust them nor have any reason to, but he could at least hear what they had to say. “Okay…”

“We figure you would understand. We know Hufflepuff House is worse than Gryffindor when it comes to stifling.”

“Beautiful common room though,” Fred whistled. “It’d be almost worth it.”

He was not surprised that these two had been in the Hufflepuff Common Room. The only one they’d be unable to get into really was Slytherin. “Alright boys, I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt. What do you have to tell me that’s interesting?”

Both boys closed in closer to him until he could smell them, they smelled of chocolate and fresh grass. “The Headmaster stopped by our house before everyone left for the trains and let our parents know that he has decided on the next Light Lord to take his place should he croak.”

“Apparently it had been a tossup between Diggory and Longbottom.” Hadrian’s brows rose at this, nearly to his hairline. Now that was good information.

“He let our father know that there would be a series of tests and trials coming up to test Longbottom. Seems he’d been in talks with Lady Longbottom for a long time about this. The kid has the potential, but he lacks the will and ability at the same time.”

“Not like you, sweet little badger.”

“I’m not anything.”

“For now.”

“But we can taste your magic.”

“Do not forget that. We can feel it.”

“It calls out to us.”

“Do you know how good it feels to be in your presence? We’ve only passed by each other a couple of times and we felt it then. Just standing here now this close it’s like we can breathe again.” Fred’s eyes went serious, and Hadrian could see the awe and pleasure on his face. A similar reaction that Blaise sometimes possessed and even his mother and the other Slytherins.

“For the first time. You’d think our lungs were filled with pipe smoke until now.”

“But Dad gave that up years ago when our sister Ginny ate his tobacco and threw up.”

“You love your family.” Hadrian couldn’t help but shake his head.

“We do.”

“No doubt about that.”

“But-?” Hadrian pressed.

“We are not betraying them so much as trying to protect them,” said Fred. “From themselves. My parents have never known any better. We know that both sides can exist.”

“We don’t know why we exist though or how it came to be, but here we are, Dark among the Light,” said George, opening his arms. “So, sweet honey, was that worth it?”

Yes, it was worth it. Hadrian brought the book down, holding it by his side. “I think it was.”

“We want an alliance with you. Just you. Not the Slytherins or anyone else. We aren’t looking to play nice during Quidditch or anything,” said Fred. “That is all we want.”

“We figure after watching you carefully that you can understand our situation.”

“It’s precarious.”

“I would say,” Hadrian agreed. He couldn’t imagine how Fred and George Weasley survived being in such a Light rich environment without becoming dangerously ill. Not after how he had gotten after a night in Hufflepuff. He could see the war in their cheeky smiles and thought about some of the pranks and mayhem they caused. He wondered if their home wasn’t as Light as the family pretended it was, surely they weren’t the first in the family.

“So, the stone is a test for Longbottom? Dumbledore is risking the entire school’s safety to test a new avatar?”

“We believe so.”

“Based on what we heard.”

“Mum thinks You Know Who is set to come back someday. Headmaster told her himself that he would.”

Hadrian shook his head. “He’s dead.”

“I know.” Both of them said at the same time.

“So, did Dumbledore bring the troll into the school?” Both shrugged at him. “Another test?” Another shrug because they honestly didn’t know. “Well, shit. Now that’s interesting.”

“It would be, if it’s true,” said Fred. “For now, we will leave you to your light reading.” He pushed up from the shelf and both boys rubbed down his back as they passed him.

“We’ll contact you again, sweet honey,” George whispered into his ear as they passed him by and out of sight.

Now that was enlightening in the darkest of ways.

Chapter Text

Chapter Fifteen

“The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.”

― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

“Can a Light family have a Dark child randomly?” Hadrian flopped down beside Cassius on the couch.

It was only Cassius and Marcus tonight in the common room, everyone else was off doing various things. Both boys looked at him. “What?” Marcus asked.

“Can a Light family have a Dark child randomly?” Hadrian asked again. “Or if you’d like, can a Dark family have a Light child randomly?”

Cassius opened his mouth to probably say no, but then he shut it. “I - guess? Technically it’s possible if a Dark and Light marry but I think the child would either take after the stronger affiliation or be Neutral. I couldn’t say for certain though. Maybe that’s a question for your father.”

“Why?” Marcus asked.

Hadrian shook his head. “Just wondering.” He loved all his Slytherins, but he sometimes felt like he needed to be careful with some of the information and knowledge he had. There were times he had to protect his loved ones from themselves. Fred and George Weasley were not wrong on that account.

“A weird thing to wonder, sweetheart.”

“You’ve been walking around in your head for the last couple of weeks,” Marcus pointed out. “Want to talk it out? Might help make sense of what’s going on up there.”

“I’m fine,” Hadrian shook his head. “Don’t worry about it.”

Clearly neither believed that, Cassius and Marcus looked at each other and then at him. “What is it?”

He shook his head. “No.”

“Hadrian…” It wasn’t often that Cassius used his actual name.

“If you can keep things from me, I can keep them from you. My turn, Cass!” He kissed the boy on the cheek and then hopped up. “Going for a walk. I can smell the snow in the air.”

“Hadrian!” Cassius and Marcus shouted after him.

Hadrian laughed as he descended the spiral stairs. It was kind of nice knowing things they didn’t. Just because they were older and stronger and handsome.

December came in with the first snowfall of the year, tumbles of white snowflakes danced down around the grounds of Hogwarts until a thin layer spread across the vast lands of bedrock and beyond. Professor Sprout had taken them outside every day during the early December days to show them how to harvest some of the mushrooms around the school and overgrown Forbidden Forest. They never stepped into the forest, she was very careful and watchful, but the outskirts and edges were still full of plant life. Hadrian seemed to be the only one in the class who had a great time doing so. Everyone else complained, even the Hufflepuffs who rarely ever cut up a fuss.

“Stick to the rotting stumps on the outside now!” Professor Sprout called after the students that were encouraged to spread out. “Don’t go further than necessary towards the forest!”

In other words: you can go into the forest, but not too far. So, what did Hadrian do? He curiously stepped into the forest with a hop, skip, and a jump. He could feel the silky Dark magic breathing in and out with the cold still trees, he rolled his neck around and raised his nose to the air and breathed in. It was lovely. Dark magic seemed to welcome him.

He harvested some of the bright blue mushrooms that were growing out of some of the birch and oaks. His fingers moved nimbly beneath the base of the mushroom, the tops spread out like a frilly skirt and it had small white dots. Each was about as big as his palm, they smelled sweet rather than rubbery or like a snail. Poisonous if they weren’t stewed right.

He could hear Ernie in the background complaining. “What’s the point of this when we can just buy them?”

“Don’t be like that Ernie,” Susan chided. “Fresh is always better after all.”

“My robes are getting filthy.” Justin whined. “How come yours aren’t?”

Hadrian moved further into the trees, his fingers coming out to stroke the leaves that he passed by. He could feel the ground and the cool skittering of insects. Just like the caves and mine shafts around Hogsmeade Valley, he could feel spider nests all around him.

Most of the spiders in the valley were all quite magical. He whistled as he gathered. When he had enough he turned and sat on one of the stumps just inside the forest, hidden by a grove of trees, not ready to leave the Dark ambiance.

He ran his fingers along the bark he sat on, feeling its ridges when something cantered lightly towards him. He turned on instinct and blinked when he found himself looking at four muscled hairy hooves. His eyes continued to rise, taking in the equestrian features until he reached a very human torso. The centaur was very muscular with intriguing features of man and horse combined. Soft toffee brown fur rode the horse portion of the creature’s body. The long hair on the top of his head and the bit that trailed down the middle of his chest to where it bloomed into the horse was a darker brown color.

“Hello, young wizard.”

“Hello, sir,” replied Hadrian.

“Beautiful morning is it not?” He raised his face to the skies. A typical centaur move.

“It’s gorgeous,” Hadrian agreed. “I’m Hadrian. Hadrian Rookwood.”

“Yes,” he said. “You are the child in the stars. Even during the light you can see them if you open your eyes. Merely hidden.” He dropped his eyes back to Hadrian. “I’m called Magnus.” Upon his strong muscled human back rode a bow and quiver of arrows.

“Am I in your territory?” Hadrian asked. “Sorry if I am. I did not mean to intrude.”

“No, the local herd’s territory starts beyond the matriarch’s of the east and extends further away from Hogsmeade. I only arrived in these lands myself not more than a dozen moons ago. Unlike my brothers, my ire is never to young folk.” His voice had a hypnotic quality to it and Hadrian couldn’t help but listen to him raptly as he spoke. “I am visiting the local herd, but they are sheltered and do not understand what I understand. I am not sure if this is a good location to start my own herd. I was given leave, but I do not like the feel of these brothers.”

Hadrian tried to decipher what he was saying. “Well, you know Feldcroft has a lot of lovely forests,” he offered. “South of where Feldcroft stood. There aren’t any centaurs who call it home.”

“Hm, I have heard many things of Feldcroft. I must take a look if this does not prove fruitful.”

“You are welcome to claim them for yourself,” said Hadrian. “Not that I’m anyone to give permission. I’m just a kid.”

“A kid who has a great swell of respect for all beings,” Magnus pointed out. “The stars shine brightly on that truth for all.”

“I love all creatures. I find the matriarch’s funny and like to test my sneaking abilities against them.”

Magnus let out a warm chuckle, his eyes sparkled within the soft dim forest light. “You are the child of the stars, the Dark that was kissed.” He leaned down and brushed his fingers beneath Hadrian’s chin. Hadrian’s eyes lidded at the feel of strong Dark magic brushing against him everywhere the fingers touched. “You are a precious gift. Perhaps I may stick around for a time, observe the forest and my brothers.” He let go of Hadrian when the sound of snapping nearby caught them both. He smiled at Hadrian, turned, and cantered off leaving Hadrian to watch.

“What was that!” Granger’s irritating voice knocked Hadrian out of watching the beautiful scene of Magnus weaving through the trees like a flowing river. “Rookwood? You’re not supposed to be this far in!”

Hadrian arched a brow at her as he stood. “Unless you’re a teacher, it would be wise to hold your tongue, Miss Granger,” he said flatly. He swept past her as she whirled around.

“Was that a centaur?” But Hadrian never answered her as she continued to try and nag him. “I heard the pounding of hooves. Hagrid said there were centaurs in the forest, but I hardly believed it. Oh - I want to see them! I have so many questions. In mythology they are sometimes thought to be very wise. But other times they’re depicted with the Greek god Dionysus and drunk a lot.”

That would be almost amusing. Centaurs would probably kill her just to shut up her consistent talking.

“I would not do that,” said Hadrian, who couldn’t leave well enough alone. “Centaurs are not to be trifled with and they do not fall under Ministry purview. They are their own law and order.”

“But they’re Headmaster Dumbledore’s centaurs.”

Hadrian snorted. “Are you out of your mind? They are no one’s centaurs. They belong to themselves. You say that in front of them you might find an arrow in your throat, Granger. You should learn to think before you speak. You may be a good thinker, but a terrible speaker.”

She stopped and he continued on to Professor Sprout and held a jar out to her full of mushrooms. “Oh, absolutely marvelous! You have such a delicate hand, Mr. Rookwood, ten points to Slytherin,” she stared at him for a brief second. Hadrian swallowed his grin and then she coughed. “Erm… Hufflepuff!”

Hadrian giggled and Ernie sulked. “That’s not funny…”

It really was.

oOo

Hadrian was surprised when Hedwig came by with a letter from his father. It wasn’t more than a few days until the holidays began and Hadrian was looking forward to going home. Until he read the letter. His father had asked him to remain in the castle that winter because he had to help deal with a situation and Rodolphus would be gone, assisting his father on some research. Hadrian didn’t know why he couldn’t stay with one of his friends.

Blaise’s mother was begging him home. Most of the other Slytherin parents were doing the same. Hadrian couldn’t help but wonder about this and feel a bit down about it. He was looking forward to seeing the Castle again and Rodolphus. He was looking forward to running through the pastures outside the castle and maybe trying to go a bit further out on an adventure.

“Looks like Mother is pregnant,” said Blaise, reading his own letter. “Doesn’t know yet if it’s a girl or boy. Guess we’ll find out soon enough. She wants me home over Yule so that I can be with her when the family healer checks.”

“Tell her congratulations.” Hadrian didn’t want to spend Yule alone, but he kept it quiet and tucked the letter away. He fed Hedwig some bacon and then prepared to get to class as she flew off to nap in the owlery. He didn’t want to spoil Blaise’s good news. He would think he’d have to stay at Hogwarts on Hadrian’s behalf and he couldn’t have that.

It was going to be a bit terrifying sleeping on his own, but he supposed he could give it a try. Maybe he could do some adventuring through the castle. Less students meant less Prefects after all, and the rules would be lax enough. Maybe he could fuss around the Restricted Section. See what books the Headmaster deemed unsuitable for students, but safe enough to keep in the school. Cassius had taught him a spell that helped to reveal the fake books that were set up to ward off any students sneaking around.

He hadn’t planned to tell anyone at all that he was staying alone in Hogwarts and frowned at the clipboard that was passed around. He let it bypass him completely for the moment and later after Transfiguration he approached the Professor.

She looked up at him. “What can I do for you, Mr. Rookwood? I was impressed with your pumpkin.”

“I don’t like pumpkins much so any chance to change them into something else I’m all for that,” said Hadrian and she cracked a smile at this. “Like the smell though. I need to sign that clipboard about who is staying over break.”

She looked surprised. “Did it skip you? You could have signed it at Slytherin table. It wouldn’t have mattered if you were a Hufflepuff or not.”

“No, I didn’t sign it because then some of them would feel the need to sign it too and I don’t think that’s all that fair. I want them to spend time with their families.”

Her eyes twinkled and she reached down and pulled out the clipboard. A very small handful of names had been written. Hadrian noticed that the Weasleys took up four of the slots. Hadrian scratched his name below Theo. He was the only Ravenclaw staying, but he’d been at Slytherin when he got the clipboard. “How are you getting along - in Slytherin?” she asked him slyly as he began to write his name down.

He raised his eyes. “Hufflepuff you mean?”

“I meant what I said, Mr. Rookwood,” she said simply.

“Great,” he answered her. “I’m disappointed I can’t go home. I’m tempted to call for a coach. It’s not that far.”

“I’m sure your father is too.”

“Sometimes his job takes him to unspeakable places.” He smiled at his bad joke. She smiled back. “Thank you, Professor.”

“What was that about?” Blaise asked him inquisitively when he rejoined them.

“I asked her if I could change the pumpkin into something more edible like a watermelon. She told me I should be able to since it has the same mass and density, and even in the same food group, but that the sweetness and flavour might not be quite right.”

“I haven’t had watermelon since we all went to the Caribbean a few years ago,” said Draco.

“Pumpkins aren’t that bad,” Blaise chuckled.

“They’re pretty and smell nice, but eating them makes me think I’m eating someone’s perfume that’s long since gone rotten.”

Everyone had a good laugh. Hadrian couldn’t help but think he’d lied to Blaise and actually succeeded. Too bad he couldn’t gloat about it.

On the day that everyone was leaving, Hadrian had risen earlier than the rest from Graham’s bed. Graham slept like a log. You could kick him and he would go on sleeping. Marcus and the boys had great fun a few times using makeup and other odd things that stained or left color on the boy. He’d even woke up one morning dressed in Draco’s mother’s nightgown. He hadn’t slept with Graham in a couple of months. The few times he had he noticed Cassius and Marcus a little more irritable at the curly haired teen when he did. No one would explain why that was.

He knew he had to hide from them all that morning because then one of them might make the decision to say ‘fuck it’ and stay. So he spent his time in the library. Only him and Madam Pince were there so early in the morning. She kept yawning and paid him no mind.

He settled in the back with his winter break homework and spent time on it while sometimes glancing out the window at all the horseless carriages that circled around the courtyard that would take students to the train. He knew that the carriages were being driven by thestrals that he could not see. He’d only seen drawings and paintings of thestrals. They could only be seen by magicals who had witnessed death occur before them. He really wanted to know what the creatures who ate their highland cow carcasses looked like in person, but was willing to wait for it to happen many years in the future. Sometimes, he could feel the thestrals on the grounds of Hogwarts, sense their magic even when they were invisible. They were natural Dark magic afterall, Hadrian would be a poor excuse for a Dark wizard if he couldn’t feel them.

Hadrian finished his Herbology homework rather quickly. He was confirming that he had the perfect length by magic when he heard some of the clattering of the carriages outside. He didn’t flinch or blink when Fred and George slid cheerfully into the seats opposite of him.

“You’ve got all the Slytherins wound up,” said Fred gleefully.

“Warrington cut a fuss like you wouldn’t believe when you didn’t show up.”

“Flint was angry when they couldn’t take back their names.”

Hadrian giggled softly. “I did what needed to be done.” Diligent little spies, Hadrian thought.

“Ever the Hufflepuff, the sweet sweet honey badger that you are,” George chuckled.

“We have a feeling you are planning some mischief.”

“Honest Hufflepuff - I know nothing!” He held up his hands and both boys snickered when George pulled something from his robes. It was an old and ratty piece of paper.

“We thought you’d like this. We were planning to send it to you for Yule as a gift. But we figure if you’re staying here you could make use of this. We already know everything about Hogwarts, so we are ready to pass this on.”

Hadrian arched a brow when the folded parchment was placed over top of his homework. It was yellowing at the edges and he lifted it curiously and turned it over. He knew there was more to it because he felt some magic on it. “Magic… revealing charm?”

“Sort of, tap your wand and say the following, ‘I solemnly swear I am up to no good’.”

Hadrian flicked his wrist and his golden wand slid pleasurably in his hand. It always felt like it was kissing his palm everytime.

“Pretty wand.”

“Pretty wizard.”

Hadrian shook his head with a smile at them and tapped his wand. “I solemnly swear I am up to no good.”

Messrs Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs bid you welcome to the Marauder’s Map.

Hadrian gasped when he opened it and just kept opening it to reveal an entire map of Hogwarts, but that wasn’t all. He leaned forward when he saw the names and dots everyone left in the school. “Oh…”

“Brilliant, isn’t it?” Fred said, leaning up with his elbows on the table. His back effectively blocked Madam Pince’s view, not that it mattered. She was snoring on a book at the front of the room.

“Whoever these Marauders were, we aspire to be like them.”

“Better than them.”

“How did you get this?” Hadrian asked when he watched Snape’s dot. He was currently in the Headmaster’s office and it looked like he was pacing, the Headmaster was also there and still, likely sitting at his desk.

“We found it.”

“We pilfered it from Filch. Dumb arse Squib left us in his office after he spent an hour threatening us with the rack and went off to ask the Headmaster if he could. We helped ourselves to his stuff of forbidden things.”

“We only allow that kinky nonsense after the second date!” said one of them quite seriously, making Hadrian giggle softly.

“Most of it was junk, but this - this was anything but nonsense.”

“How did you figure it out?” Hadrian asked. “I’m really impressed you did.”

“Ah, but you see we saw this message inscribed hastily on the back of the statue of the one-eyed witch a few weeks before we found the map. It had the same handwriting. So we tried it.”

“You really do know the castle. Are you sure you want to give me this?”

“We figure you could make use of it better than us. Together, we are two pairs of eyes. You only have one, however beautiful they are.”

By now, Hadrian didn’t know which one was talking. He’d lost the flow of them. He had noticed that usually, Fred started the conversation and George would finish. On the map he noted that Theo was heading to Ravenclaw from the Great Hall. A total of fifteen students were staying at Hogwarts that winter.

“You’ll find that the map even shows shortcuts that the Marauders have found, several of them Filch knows, but a few he doesn’t. A couple are caved in or blocked entirely.” He figured this was likely Fred speaking now. Someday soon he would figure out who was talking without batting an eyelash.

“Unfortunately, it doesn’t have the ghosts’ names.”

“I can get around that, but really, guys, this is bloody brilliant.”

“We are happy to assist, little honey badger!” Fred stood and bowed to him in his seat causing Hadrian to shake his head.

“Oh, and be warned during holidays with this few students we’ll all be sitting up at the staff table,” George informed him.

“Good to know. I’m surprised you’re all staying.”

“Our parents are visiting our older brother Charlie with our younger sister. Couldn’t afford for us all to go. He left school last year.”

“What does he do?” Hadrian asked. “I think I remember Marcus complaining about a Charlie Weasley being too good of a Seeker.”

Both boys beamed at him and nodded. “He was, but I doubt he could seek his way out of much anymore with the muscles he’s gained.”

“He’s working with dragons in Romania. You have to have muscle for that. So he’s not so lithe anymore.”

Hadrian looked down at the map, still in awe of it. “How do I wipe this?”

“Mischief Managed!” George tapped the map.

Messrs: Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs bid you adieu, and ask you to stay mischievous.

“Brilliant!”

“We know.”

“You really want nothing for it?” Hadrian couldn’t help but ask. It was a risk to ask, his Slytherins would have discouraged it, but these twins were Gryffindors and he was sorted into Hufflepuff. Despite never being there. He had finally gotten around to moving his trunk to the Slytherin rooms earlier. It was stashed in with Draco and Blaise.

“Fill your days with mischief.”

“Tis your Yule gift, sweet honey.” As both stood, Hadrian marveled at them a moment as they leaned closer to him and then pecked his cheek, one on either side, and then they were gone.

He smiled down at the map. Oh, this was great. His plans would work out even better than he had hoped.

Seeing none of his Slytherins on the map, they had all finally left Hogwarts grounds, he decided to see if he could catch a late breakfast. He was starting to get hungry. Then he would scout out the forbidden corridor. He had no plans on doing anything about it yet, but he did want to know what the Gryffindors found that led them to start snooping. Especially the rule monger Granger and timid Longbottom. That did not sound like them, and if Dumbledore was testing Longbottom - well - he couldn’t test much if Hadrian got there first, right? Hadrian did, after all, have an adventurer’s spirit. He had so wanted to go home for Yule, but if he had to stay he might as well make the most of it.

The boys had been right about the Great Hall because as soon as he stepped into it for a late breakfast he found that all the house tables had vanished and the long staff table had been moved to sit in the very middle of the hall.

Hadrian admitted that even though Hogwarts celebrated ‘Christmas’ the decoration was absolutely lovely and not far off from Yule decorations in the Pureblood circles. Except for the Christmas tree, but even that was stunning. All wrapped in white with fairy bottoms glowing nestled somewhere in the spiny fir. Icicles hung down from the enchanted ceiling and the candles seemed more reflective with their flames bigger and brighter.

Only a couple of teachers were at the table. Professor Flitwick was one of them. “Come along, Mr. Rookwood. You are welcome to sit!” he cheered to the boy who made his way up the aisle.

“Hello, Professor.” He slid opposite of the small man. He helped himself to some scrambled eggs, sausage, and baked beans. He was the only student at the table, a couple of teachers he didn’t know were cheerfully chatting with one another.

“I must say I’ve been very impressed with your wandwork, Mr. Rookwood.”

“I think my wand would lecture me if I wasn’t impressive,” Hadrian answered back as he neatly cut his food up.

Professor Flitwick chuckled. “Indeed, indeed! You know, I had the pleasure of teaching your father. I’m so proud that he went as far as I suspected he would.”

“My dad is brilliant,” Hadrian agreed, accepting the pitcher of orange juice passed his way by one of the other professors. “He’s done his best to teach me some things before coming to school. Sadly he was always disappointed when he couldn’t keep me in a classroom listening to him lecture.”

“A hard thing for any parent, I imagine, Mr Rookwood.” Flitwick chuckled.

He kept up polite conversation with the cheerful Charms Professor and learned that the little man had been a dueling champion in his time. “I got the chance to see a competition in Paris before the start of school. I was impressed, somewhat.” He thought about Brownstone and that dratted Light Veela.

“Oh, those are spectacular, especially when it’s your first time. I suspect you picked up some of their spells.”

“Some,” agreed Hadrian. “Dad sent me with independent studies, so I’ve been working on that too.”

“Not a surprise. It pleases me that students have the willingness to do their own independent studies. One never stops learning even after Hogwarts.”

“Exactly what my dad says.”

Professor McGonagall swept through as Hadrian was finishing his breakfast. “Well, Mr. Rookwood, you’ll be happy to know that you left the Slytherins in a tizzy.”

Hadrian worked on keeping the flush down. “Sorry, Professor.”

“I think I understand now why you waited to write your name down. Filius, please pass me the coffee. Black.”

He did so. “You normally take tea, Minerva.”

“Not this morning.”

“Well at least you’ll have a break for a couple of weeks.”

“Do not be so sure, you did see who was staying right?” asked Professor McGonagall tersely.

“Well, it wouldn’t be Hogwarts without them, now would it?” He chortled.

“Your bright side, Filius, is exasperating sometimes.”

He laughed even more cheerfully and Hadrian found him infectious. If only there were more teachers like these two then Hogwarts would probably be one of the top most schools in the world.

As if they knew they were being talked about, the Weasley twins blew open the doors with all good cheer and Hadrian could have sworn he heard Professor McGonagall groan as Professor Flitwick stifled a chuckle and coughed into his goblet.

“Thank you, thank you! No need to stand on our account,” said Fred.

“Yes, do stay in your seats. We know we are fabulously handsome and popular, but no need to crowd us… unless you want to.”

“I’m the better looking one.”

“‘Fraid not dear brother. The handsome genes took one look at you and came directly to me.”

Hadrian had to hide his face briefly into the sleeve of his arm as he caught Professor McGonagall close her eyes briefly as if giving herself a mental pep-talk. Her lip kept twitching. Several of the teachers lost their composure despite how hard they tried to work on it, and they bowed at the laughter before sliding on either side of Hadrian casually.

“Pass the sausage, please.”

“And the honey.”

Hadrian bit his lip at the wink the one on his right sent him as he passed both items at the same time. It really was hard not to laugh when both went at it.

“You were saying, Filius?” Professor McGonagall finally went back to completely normal.

“I meant what I said, Minerva,” said Professor Flitwick dismissively.

“Of course you do. Mr. Rookwood, please do not let them influence you too much this break. I like having a diligent student.”

“Oh, now Professor-”

“-You don’t mean that!” Both acted wounded and she glared at them.

“Don’t wound us. We know we are your favorites.”

“Like a swarm of bees in my bonnet. Be quiet and eat your food.”

Both of them beamed at her and dug in. Hadrian almost choked and had to turn away to hide it.

“It could be worse, Minerva, there could be four of them.”

Professor McGonagall side-eyed Filius. “My gray hair is the product of those four - or rather two. You couldn’t catch the one, he was far too smart. The other, I am not sure. I still can’t figure that out.”

“You still made one Head Boy.”

Professor McGonagall sighed at that and focused on her food. “Be that as it may…” She changed the subject. Hadrian had a feeling that Fred and George might not be wrong when they teased her about favorites. They might just be.

Hadrian soon went back to Slytherin and he took advantage of the emptiness. It was like a cacophonous echo where even the water fountain vibrated through the still silence.

He would have taken advantage of the Hufflepuff Common Room being empty because it was just so pretty, but he didn’t want to spend too much time in all that Light magic. He had to respect the Weasley twins for being able to survive in their environment. He did not envy their positions one single bit.

He stretched out over Marcus’ bed on his belly. He knew by nightfall he would be getting lonely and his mood would start to turn sour, but for now he was cheery and excited. He had a whole map to study and no one to disturb him.

He opened it and spread it out on the bed after saying the enchantment, and his eyes had a hard time not zipping too fast around the magic. He started at the bottom near the boat docks, noting that the grounds had also been marked all the way to the edge of the Forbidden Forest before it dropped off completely. He circled around and mentally mapped out where it was stopping. Seemed to stop at the edge of the Black Lake.

He saw Hagrid’s name, Rubeus Hagrid, near the Forbidden Forest. The map denoted the little hut that tended to smell like barley and cooked meat on the edge of the forest near the lake as his. Hadrian ran his finger up along the etched staircase in the bedrock. He ran across a couple of names in the main entrance courtyard. He saw the Weasley twins had migrated out of the Great Hall and were heading to the Ravenclaw Tower. He blinked when they seemed to vanish somewhere around there and they went off the map entirely.

Interesting.

He then followed the next series of dots, noting that Theo was still in the same place in Ravenclaw, only three others were in the tower with him. He was glad to see that Theo fit in so well with Ravenclaw.

He then went down the map, Professor Sinistra had a woman in the tower named, Mirabella Sinistra, with her. A wife? The names were on top of one another, blurring more than the twins’ had when they gave him the map in the library, which was odd. He continued his tracing going down, down until he reached the Great Hall. No one was left in there. It was lunchtime now, but everyone seemed to kind of do their own thing and not keep to a schedule. Not even the teachers. Professor McGonagall was in her office and then he inched further to the dungeons.

Hufflepuff had the most students still in the school with six or seven, still a scant amount compared to the others. He was pleased to note that Parnell was not there at all. Good. Bloody bastard. Hadrian hoped he choked on his religion.

Now, he was at Slytherin. A lone Hadrian Rookwood in the tower all by himself. Hadrian frowned for a moment at that.

He shook his head and moved along, where was Longbottom? He searched and searched the map and for a moment he thought the kid had gone home, but then he saw him. His name was with Ronald Weasley and they were on the grounds heading toward Hagrid’s hut. Smith wasn’t with them. He probably went home and the same could be said for Granger.

Hadrian stared at it a moment before making a random decision. He rolled off Marcus’ bed, folded the map and hid it away, before grabbing his thunderbird robe and sliding it over his clothes. He straightened it and then double checked his wand was in its holder before looking around at the quiet somber room that smelled like oak, whiskey, and chocolate.

Adrian loved chocolate, but what was funny was that he didn't like that many other sweets. Just chocolate. Marcus liked to sneak his stash from time to time. Cassius would never, he was not a chocolate man. In fact, he hated the stuff unless it came with bourbon or whiskey. He liked weird flavors. His father always blamed the American side of him, his relatives had turned him onto the weird flavors of something called tabasco? And things with heat on it. His American relatives were always sending him these flaming red candies that Cass called Bourbon Bons. He didn’t even know what bourbon was, but the smell wasn’t bad.

He realized that Snape had all but left Hogwarts by this point, which was good for him after he double checked and made his way out of Slytherin, hanging a right toward the stairs and doors. He shivered only a little as he made it out to the snowy white grounds. He lived in the valley all his life, but it always amazed him. Two students were having a snowball fight in the courtyard.

He arched his way toward the covered trellis bridge as his breaths came out white and distorted. He should have brought his scarf, but hadn’t thought of it. He made his way onto the grounds and then followed the tracks in the snow instead of creating new ones.

He soon found the hut with smoke pouring out of the chimney. He wrinkled his nose at the strange scent and he could hear Hagrid’s booming voice coming from inside. He hunkered down and inched around the other side facing the Forbidden Forest instead of the school. He pressed his back to the stone wall near the entry.

“-How’d you know about that?!”

“We researched it.”

“Hermione researched it, Ron,” Longbottom corrected.

“Same thing.”

“Ah, that Hermione. Knew she was a clever one,” he chortled. “Well, yeh ain’t supposed to know. Can’t let the others know.”

“We swear, Hagrid, we won’t. We just want to make sure that it stays safe. What if a nasty Slytherin tries to get it or worse, Snape?”

“Nah, Snape is loyal to Headmaster Dumbledore. Always has been and always will be. He might be unpleasant, but he follows the Headmaster’s orders. But yeh don’t have to worry, the stone is well protected.”

“But why is it here?”

“Tha’ I don’ know. It twas the Headmaster’s decision. He always has a reason for everything.”

“Does he really think You Know Who is still out there?”

“I can’t say… probably. He knows stuff, he’s the Light Lord after all. He knows things that we can’ possibly know.”

“How did you get that dog?”

“What dog?”

“Dog? You call it a dog? It had three bloody heads the size of this hut or nearly so!” Weasley squawked.

“Oh, you mean Fluffy?”

“Fluffy?” Both boys cried out.

“Yah, Fluffy. I won him in a pub. Isn’t he great?”

“No!”

“Hagrid!”

“He’s a beaut, isn’t he? Ah, he was so cute as a pup… when he looked at me with those six little eyes…”

“Hagrid…” Weasley squawked in horror.

“Well, anyway… I’ve always had a kinship with beasts. I guess it comes from livin’ so close to the forest,” he chortled. “Wha’ I’d really love to have is a dragon though. Gorgeous creatures they are.”

“A dragon… My brother said you can’t house a dragon.”

“I know, I know. But I’d give anything to be able ta. Can you imagine it?”

“I don’t want to,” Longbottom’s voice sounded faint.

Say what you wanted about Hagrid’s loyalty to the Light, but he had good taste in creatures. Now he was really curious about this ‘Fluffy’. Three heads? A cerberus maybe? He’d never seen one before, not even in pictures. He’d only seen the name in a Greek Mythology book. It was a large canine that had supposedly guarded the underworld.

“So… there’s more than Fluffy?”

“Oh yah, all the teachers have placed their own enchantments. Insisted on it when the Headmaster brought it into the school. I don’t know why they don’t trust the Headmaster, he knows what he’s doing.”

“And the troll?”

“I don’t know about that… Headmaster wasn’t too happy about it neither.”

“Did Snape do it?”

“I told ya, Snape is a good guy… well good is stretchin’ it I imagine. He’s loyal to Dumbledore. He’d never do anything that Dumbledore didn’t want him to do.”

That was an interesting way to put it, Hadrian thought. It was interesting to note that even the Light kids didn’t seem to trust Snape. If the Dark didn’t and the Light didn’t… well that said a lot, didn’t it?

A whine from inside made Hadrian frown. “What was that?”

“What is it, Fang?” Hadrian bounced back when he heard a scratch at the door. “You can’t go out chasin’ the winter rabbits! Get back here…” It howled.

Shit! Hadrian turned and flew into the Forbidden Forest. He had to dive into some bushes and roll through the snow as he turned just in time to see the door opening and Hagrid’s big bushy head stuck out. A large dog peaked around him sniffing at the air.

“You silly mutt. Come on!” He called, pushing the dog’s big head back inside and closing the door.

Hadrian let out a breath as he remained where he was in case the dog wanted to get out again. He supposed animals weren’t on the map. After a few heart pounding minutes, Hadrian stood and began to pat himself down. “Cerberus? Oh, this I have to see…”

“Cerberus?”

Hadrian’s eyes widened and he turned to see Magnus standing a few feet away beneath a shady oak tree. His gorgeous toffee equestrian body seemed to glow against the backdrop of the snow. “Magnus!” He cheered.

“You remembered my name.”

“Of course. It wasn’t that long ago that we were introduced.”

“You would be surprised how many humans forget that we even have names.”

“Shame on them,” said Hadrian. “I was eavesdropping,” he said honestly as he jabbed a thumb over his shoulder. “I didn’t know he had a dog that could smell me.”

Magnus cracked a small smile. “And you heard the word ‘cerberus’?”

“I did.”

“They are dangerous.”

“So are you. So are matriarchs. So, too, can I be.”

Magnus bowed his head. “That is true. I suppose anyone or anything can be seen as dangerous.” He drew his eyes up to the skies. “Interesting.”

“Are you still visiting your brothers?”

“Yes, I am curious as to why they are not - them. I have come to deduce that it may be the magic.”

“Light magic, you mean?” Hadrian moved to stand closer to the stately centaur, carefully keeping eye contact to show respect as Magnus spoke.

“Correct. You see, unlike humans, creatures, or beings as we are sometimes called, do not shift our alignments. Centaurs have always been Dark creatures who have remained out of the affairs of wizards. It seems some of them are fighting that nature and I am unsure if it is willing or not.”

“The Light is famed for its illusions and manipulations,” said Hadrian. “But the forest feels Dark so that should help wipe any traces of Light magic. I can’t see Light surviving in this forest.”

“You are correct. You are a wise young one.” He smiled at Hadrian. It was a handsome and good smile. “I spent time in Fairy Country and so I know the Light well. We centaurs are encouraged to seek new paths and learn our knowledge the hard way. Only then can you decipher the stars and moons.”

“That must have been hard for you. I spent a single night in Hufflepuff, my first night here, and I started to suffocate. I didn’t realize what was happening at the time. It wasn’t until I stumbled out the next morning and was surrounded by the Dark that I learned what was happening.”

“I do not understand why humans believe the way that they do. I suppose they have not lived or traveled or experienced the same.”

“Creatures and beings are all about instinct, they never do more or less.”

“Unless you are half human,” said Magnus, stepping forward elegantly. “Do you know what happens when Light forces its way into the Dark?”

“Nothing good I imagine.”

“It twists them, they fight and fight, and do not realize they are fighting a battle that has no end.”

Hadrian tilted his head. “Are you saying the centaurs are fighting amongst themselves?”

“Precisely. It is common for them to do so, but they do so with honor and rite of ritual. Not like this.”

“You should head to Feldcroft, you won’t have to deal with so much Light magic then,” said Hadrian. “I love Hogwarts, she’s not Light magic. She’s-” He turned to look at her through the trees. She was foggy, but she stood out.

“Ancient Magic,” said Magnus, bringing a hand down on Hadrian’s head. His fingers tangled lightly within Hadrian’s black locks. “Just like you. You are Dark but you also house Ancient Magic.”

“Why do I house it?” Hadrian asked.

“I cannot answer that,” said Magnus. “It is not for me to gaze at. What I do know is that humans have lost that right long long ago, but there are a few who have the ability to unlock it.”

“Does that mean centaurs lost it too?”

“Most of it. You say Feldcroft is not full of Light?”

“No. All that’s there is Rookwood Castle, our creature sanctuary and farm lands, and lots and lots of caves. Perhaps I can show you in the summer or something?” He suggested.

Magnus smiled at him. “I would not turn down such an offer.” His hand shifted down from Hadrian’s hair to brush along his cheek.

“Excellent! I’m sorry about your brothers though. I hope it gets sorted out,” he said softly.

“As do I, young one.”

Chapter Text

Chapter Sixteen

“Never was anything great achieved without danger.”

― Niccolo Machiavelli

Hadrian’s eyes opened blearily to the loud silence that vibrated through the room. He’d almost said good-morning to Cassius from habit. He could smell him all over because he’d chosen Cassius’ bed to sleep in. He frowned at this. He hadn’t slept well at all. He had his stuffed pig, Peppa, under his arm, but it was a sorry substitute.

In the years that Hadrian could remember, he’d never been alone. Not truely. His father and Rodolphus were always down the hall. He could sleep with them whenever he wanted to. He’d often done so until he was six or seven.

His eyes burned and he felt the ache in his chest as he sat up. He placed Peppa between his legs and looked around him.

No grumbling Marcus who sometimes passed gas making Adrian laugh and Cassius to throw a hex at him. No Adrian digging into his fudge in the morning and Marcus teasing him that his teeth were going to be worse than his own. No Cassius playing around with his harmonica to the annoyance of Marcus. Adrian used his silencers a lot so only rarely did he hear it, unless Cassius was in a dickish mood and would sneak up to the bed to directly do it in the boy’s ear.

Hadrian’s smile fell. Goodness, how do people do this? He liked his moments alone to think and wander around, but he also liked to know that everyone was still close by. He pulled out the locket that always rested on his neck. He opened it to see everyone’s gem hand on ‘Home’.

Everyone but him and Theo. Theo’s gem was on ‘Dorm’. Guess he was still asleep or working on homework, but Theo was also a natural loner. He liked being alone. Hadrian on the other hand was not. He shook his head again and cleared his throat as he decided to get up and out of bed.

He had to stay busy to keep that feeling from clutching at his chest and squeezing it. Cassius and Marcus had made room for him in their bedside drawers and in their joint boot rack. Hadrian’s boots sat on a rack below a few pairs belonging to Cassius and Marcus that they’d left behind because they wouldn’t need spring or summer footwear in winter.

He made his way to the bathroom, already the smell was fading in the rooms from the colognes and bath products that the boys used. At first he didn’t get why eleven year olds needed colognes when the boys showed them off before their first year at Hogwarts, but now he couldn’t imagine them without them. His own was still there, but who cares what he smelled like? He made a plan tonight to go and check out Fluffy. He wondered if the creature would let him pet it?

He didn’t bother with school robes. There had been a note in the common room the first day of break stating that students were not expected to wear their uniforms during the break. He dressed in dark brown trousers and cream lace up boots with good tread because slipping on ice was not enjoyable unless he did it on purpose. He finished with a deep purple silk beneath a velvet brown doublet vest. He adjusted the light lace around the sleeves. He brushed his hair and then grabbed the thunderbird cloak before taking his bag with him and heading out.

He kept his focus on anything other than the silence. When he stepped into the Great Hall he saw that the few students who stayed back and most of the teachers were sitting at the staff table. He noted that Fred and George were sitting with an open chair between them near the end, as far from the Headmaster as possible. That brightened him considerably as he made his way up the aisle.

He was aware of the stares as he drew closer. Seems many students decided to keep wearing school robes. “Seat taken, boys?”

“Only by you!” How did they do that? He smiled cheerfully at them, feeling much better as he hopped onto the stool.

“Good morning, Mr. Rookwood,” Professor McGonagall addressed a few spaces down on the other side.

“Morning, Professor.”

“Honey with your breakfast?” Fred teased him.

Hadrian smirked. “Mm… only if I’m having croissants or crumpets.” But today he wanted some salted ham and potatoes. He had some winter fruit on the side.

“I’ll take it,” said George, reaching over and plucking it from his hand. It was rude to reach like that, but Hadrian couldn’t help his smile at the move.

“Careful, he’s way too pretty to get it on him this morning.”

“Better with clothes off,” George mock whispered, causing Hadrian to choke on his juice.

“Why would you want to put honey on someone with no clothes? Wouldn’t that be- sticky?” Hadrian asked, keeping his voice quiet enough so that it didn’t reach across the table. No need to have Professors overhear.

He ignored the weird stares they received from the youngest Weasley and Longbottom. Percy Weasley didn’t seem phased at all. He was busy talking to the Ancient Runes teacher.

“A lot of things are sticky, little honey badger,” Fred whispered.

“Hasn’t your Dark friend told you yet?” He was going to go out on a limb and guess they were talking about Blaise.

“I’m surprised they have yet to corrupt him.”

“Cass and Marcus won’t let them,” Hadrian pouted.

“I never would have figured,” said Fred in surprise. “Especially Flint. Huh…”

“I can see Warrington. Can’t help but respect that. We’ll try and be good…” George twitched and then looked at his brother and they both burst out laughing.

“Nevermind, that doesn’t work for long.”

“It’s dangerous. We tried it once, lives were nearly lost.”

“Houses burned down.”

“Fields smoldering…”

Hadrian couldn’t hold back his laughter as he ducked, dropping his chin behind his goblet of mint and cranberry water. He had to sit it down unless it upturned. “Every manner I’ve learned has gone out the window. My godmother would be horrified.”

Both smiled at him. “Mission accomplished.”

How did they do that?

Hadrian was mentally planning what he was going to do after this, and knew it was going to be him all alone unless he went to Ravenclaw to drag Theo down. That was when Fred and George settled back and their arms linked behind Hadrian and leaned closer.

“How about a tour of the Gryffindor Common Rooms, little honey badger?” Fred asked in his ear.

Hadrian smiled at this. His smile grew into a smirk when he saw little Weasley turn red in the face while looking at them. Seemed he had an issue with his older brothers talking with him so casually.

George chuckled. “I take that as a yes.”

“Yup. Just remember you are answering to Marcus and Cass if you corrupt me.”

Both laughed and drew back. “Come on.”

“Oh no…” Hadrian wasn’t sure, but he thought he heard Professor McGonagall say as he was led out of the Great Hall.

Hadrian had a near skip in his step, these two boys were infectious. He noticed some of the portraits ran and hid as they moved through the Grand Staircase, hopping from stairs to stairs in a seamless fashion.

“You don’t always have to go around to the viaduct entrance. A lot of ways to get to the same place,” Fred told him.

“I studied it last night,” Hadrian told them. “Where did you guys go?”

George grinned. “Just because we’re not fifth years yet doesn’t mean we can’t go where we want and when we want.”

“In third and fourth year you can go to Hogsmeade at certain times of the year, but once you hit fifth year you can go anytime.”

“But why should we have to wait until we’re fifteen?”

“Pointless, what’s two more years?”

“Good way to look at it,” said Hadrian logically.

“You may be a Hufflepuff with Slytherins wrapped around you but you clearly have a Gryffindor in there somewhere,” Fred pointed out with a teasing poke at Hadrian’s nose. They were waiting on one of the staircases that decided to take them up and down twice before taking them to where they wanted to go.

“Hat considered it,” Hadrian offered. He saw no reason to hide that from them. He might not completely trust them, but his instincts were pretty good and had yet to lead him wrong. He wasn’t all Slytherin after all. They just felt right to him.

“Did it? It must have. You were under there for ages. A real hat stall. It had the Gryffindors wondering.”

“I told it in no uncertain terms, no,” said Hadrian. “It’s not that I dislike Gryffindor, but…”

“We get it, the animosity between Slytherin and Gryffindor is a tale as old as time.”

“Song as old as rhyme…” George followed up and then they started coughing and gagging. “Merlin, Mother and her Muggle Princess fetish.”

“Princess?” Hadrian asked, confused.

“When Mum had Ginny, first girl in well - a long long time,” Fred rolled his eyes. “She became obsessed with all things girlie, including some Muggle things. It’s kind of embarrassing. Please don’t tell anyone.”

“We have nothing against Muggleborns, we actually prefer them to many Lights because at least they’re blanks and don’t drive us crazy.”

“Sure their thinking could usually use some work.”

“But that’s easy enough to ignore.”

That made sense, Hadrian thought, especially if they grew up around only Lights. “I won’t say a word and I think I understand.” It did make him think that he should have a look at people a bit differently. Consider more the ‘why’ instead of just rolling his eyes like Draco and the rest of his family and friends. It was a new perspective on the whole Muggleborn invasion. “I just don’t like how Muggleborn things get pushed on us while all our traditions and culture gets shoved under the rug until you can’t see it anymore. It would be better if there was some compromise.”

“Unfortunately, the Light don’t compromise well. Not even with each other a lot of the time.”

“Some just follow so blindly that it takes everything from them,” said George, and for once Hadrian saw the serious side of them. No smiles or playful teasings.

He wanted to ask, but felt it would be rude to do so. “So, why me then?”

“We’re not blind.” Just as the stairs stopped on the seventh floor.

Hadrian said nothing to that and scooped up both of their hands into his. “Lead me boys!”

“Yes, little honey badger!” All their smiles and mirth returned as they led him up a small staircase tucked behind a wall until they reached their floor and Hadrian saw at the end of the hall a golden framed portrait with a plump lady in a pink satin dress. She had curls about her ears and pearls adorning her thick neck.

Fred stood in front of the Fat Lady. “Good morning to you, fine lady! We seek entrance to our fine dorms.”

“Password?” She looked at Hadrian curiously. He wasn’t wearing Hufflepuff robes so she couldn’t tell what his house was, but she obviously didn’t recognize him.

“Caput Draconis!” George told the woman.

“Yes indeed.” She flipped forward revealing a human sized hole in the wall. Fred led the way with George behind Hadrian.

Cozy and crimson, Hadrian didn’t think it was too bad at all. If Slytherin was cool and calm, and Hufflepuff was enchanting and cozy, then Gryffindor was kind of a riot but at the same time homely. All the walls were a deep scarlet with tapestries in gold and scarlet. Roaring fireplaces sat on opposite ends and two sweeping staircases were on either side of him that must have led to the dormitories. All the couches, like in Hufflepuff and Slytherin, were tufted and done in crimson.

“Password changes every month.”

“If you ask nicely, we might be willing to tell you.”

Hadrian wasn’t sure he’d take them up on the offer, but it was good information to have. “Snuggly. Bit of a riot of colors, but still feels like I could curl up on the couch and sleep. However, I bet you don’t let the students do that, do you?”

“Depends.”

“Do we like you?”

“Or are you annoying?”

“Also depends on our mood.”

“Ask Cormac McLaggan, though I doubt he’ll answer you. He’s still got the itch.”

“Itch?” Hadrian asked.

“Itching powder. We might have accidentally spilled it down his trousers one morning.”

“Total accident, we wouldn’t really mean to do that.”

Hadrian doubled over in giggles and shook his head. “Great Merlin…”

Fred shrugged innocently. “He scratched so much I’m sure he managed to lengthen himself a few inches.”

Hadrian coughed as the air left his lungs.

“So really, if you think about it, we did him a favor.”

“Dammit…” Hadrian grumbled, tears in his eyes. “I didn’t think itching powder did that much - itching. It wears off after about five minutes.”

“Not ours,” said Fred grinning.

“Nope, extra strength!”

“You made some?”

“Oh yeah, why bother with five minutes when you can have five days or even weeks if you wanted to?” George asked logically with a straight face. “What’s the fun in that?”

“You wanna know the secret?”

“I think so?”

“Well, young Hadrian, listen closely, the secret is troll bogeys…”

“Freshly scooped from their noses.”

“Right after they’ve been defeated by little honey badgers.”

“Y-you harvested the troll?” Hadrian asked, impressed. “You secretly let it in didn’t you?”

Fred shook his head. “No.”

“Absolutely not,” said George. “But, we harvested a lot of it.”

“Really?”

“If we were going to let a troll in, we’d have made sure it made it into the Great Hall, Hadrian. What do you take us for? Amateurs?” scoffed Fred.

Hadrian tilted his head. “Okay, I believe you.”

“Hagrid was told to remove it. He took it to the forest and left both parts there overnight.”

“We just happened to clean up for him,” Fred finished. “Do you know how much their bits go for on the black market?”

“A lot!” said George. “Some bits we keep and use, the other bits we sell.”

Wow. Impressed was an understatement. It wasn’t often that third years would even know about there being a black market for parts of creatures. Poaching as a profession had disappeared after all and that had used to be the main way to get parts for the black market. Hadrian wasn’t surprised it was still around, just that third year Gryffindors could access it.

“Of course our cultivation is strictly humane.”

“Sometimes…”

“Can’t help it if we’re attacked during the process and defend ourselves of course.”

“We don’t touch anything that doesn’t attack back. Not our style.”

“Plus there’s not much there to use either if they are harmless.”

Hadrian shook his head with a slow smile. “You boys are ridiculous.”

“Thank you!”

By great happenstance he had access now to three common rooms. Maybe it was time to check out Ravenclaw and surprise Theo with a visit. He was feeling better than he had this morning. Not so lonely anymore.

Hadrian saw something wriggle from beneath a pink couch cushion and he looked over to see a plump fat gray rat twitching its nose. It looked pretty rough and old, missing bits of his ear and half of its paw looked like it’d been eaten off at some point. “Pet?” he guessed, feeling like he’d seen a rat like this before, but couldn’t remember where. “Or do you have a rat infestation? I’m sure my owl would be happy to help out.”

“It was Percy’s.”

“He handed it off to Ron this year.”

“He was found in a garden. He has no magical rat qualities. Just a rat.”

“Right…” Hadrian blinked at it. “Rats are everywhere.” He waved his hand at it nonchalantly.

“Unfortunately, the thing likes to sleep anywhere and everywhere. Sometimes he has to be chased down when he gets lost. No brains that rat.”

“About like its owner.”

Hadrian coughed. “I think I’ve exercised my stomach muscles more than enough for the next year. Marcus will be jealous of my secret.” It was his turn to make the boys laugh.

Instead of going back to Slytherin, Hadrian headed for Ravenclaw. Fred and George were heading out again. Hadrian checked the map for them, but they weren’t bothered with being caught and they separated at Ravenclaw Tower. Both of them slipped behind the one-eyed witch after tapping it’s nose and whispering. “Dissendium.”

It took only a few minutes to make his way up, up, up, up and further up than Gryffindor Tower until he reached what felt more like an attic than a landing. He found himself standing in the darkness in front of a gorgeous door with a golden bronze eagle stretched over it.

Hadrian cautiously approached it, Theo had not gotten around to telling them how they got in. It’d never really come up. Hadrian would have been the only one with any interest.

Hadrian flinched when the eagle began to speak. A woman’s voice floated out with a clearing of throats. “Riddle time!”

“Excuse me?” Hadrian asked it.

“Riddle. Are you new? It’s a bit late to be sorted.”

“Erm, yes,” Hadrian said. “Sorry. You said a riddle?”

“Yes I did. Are you ready? I have a good one today!” She sounded excited.

Hadrian puffed out a breath. “Okay, lay it on me.”

“Smashing!” She cleared her ‘throat’ again. “What is once in a minute, twice in a moment, and never in a thousand years?”

Hadrian froze at that. “Can you repeat that please?”

She did and he stood there for a moment with his arms crossed. “Once in a minute, twice in a moment but never in a thousand years…?” His father would tell him that most riddles were actually very simple and that the human mind oftentimes made them more complicated because they never looked for simple answers.

A spark went off in his head when he murmured, “minute has one - M? Moment has two M’s but never in a thousand years has none?” He nodded to himself. “The letter M.” He might not be as fast as his dad or Theo, but he wasn’t stupid.

“Fantastic!” The gorgeous eagle came alive at that moment. It stretched out its wings and then flew up and disappeared revealing a simple door with a simple knob.

He was first greeted by a giant pale gray stone statue of an eagle as he entered through the door. The eagle’s wings were spread, as if in mid-flight, and the wall behind it was like looking at an astronomy map of the constellations done in royal blue and gold. Stairs were on either side of the entry room, leading up into the tower. When he reached the first landing, he noted that the pale gray stone from the entry flowed into the room, covering both the floors and walls. In the middle of the circular room was a giant round blue rug that continued the astronomy motif. Light blue curtains draped from stone arches that arched out from between tall windows circling the room, allowing large amounts of natural light in. Off on one side he noticed a smaller circular space with a fireplace in the middle whose walls were filled with bookshelves instead of windows. He crossed the empty room to go up the next set of circular stairs.

On the second floor he found even more rugs littering the floor. There were some that were gold on blue, others fully blue, and even some pale cream. Instead of stone floors, the floors were covered in a brown wood laid out like tiles, slats changing directions every now and then to form a pattern. The walls between windows were a more gray-ish blue with the pale stone lining every edge. Glancing upwards, Hadrian was surprised to see a glass domed roof instead of the next level’s flooring. He knew there was another level since there were two spiral staircases at the back of the room, which he guessed led to the dorms, but the giant glass dome was in the center and was letting in bright natural light. It must be like the spell in the Great Hall.

All of the windows in the tower made it feel very light and airy. Especially paired with the pale stone and creams used on the couches and armchairs. He could see how this would be a relaxing place to sit and study. Lots of natural light during the day and conveniently placed torches at night would keep this tower bright enough to read. He did wonder how the students kept warm during the winter months with all of the windows, but the tower was a nice temperature. He spied a stone bust beneath a tapestry of what Hadrian supposed was Lady Rowena Ravenclaw. She was rather regal with a diadem perched on her head.

It was magnanimous and now he could not decide which of the houses were the best. His eyes went all over the place.

“Hadrian!” Theo gasped from one of the tufted blue couches by one of the windows. He was laying on his back with a book.

Hadrian beamed. “Hi!” He hopped through the room like he was a little boy skipping into his dad’s room.

“H-how did you get in here?” he asked, surprised.

“Eagle let me in, after I solved the riddle. I’ve been on a tour all morning long.”

“Tour?”

“Gryffindor is pretty interesting.”

Theo’s mouth dropped and he sat up. “You went to Gryffindor?”

“Sure.”

“Oh Merlin, Cassius and Marcus are going to flip!”

Hadrian shrugged. “I love Cass and Marcus, but I can do whatever I want to do.”

Theo shook his head. “You don’t understand, they were angry yesterday. You didn’t tell them or anyone that you were staying here.”

Hadrian flopped down gracefully into an armchair across from Theo. “I didn’t want to spoil their Yule, getting to spend the darkest and longest night away from here? Actually celebrate it? They deserve that. Dad asked me to stay here for Yule though I don’t know why.”

“I get it, but they’re not going to,” said Theo. “You don’t have to answer to me. There was a reason I signed the clipboard.”

“And there was a reason I didn’t sign it in front of them.”

“I don’t think Marcus would have minded staying back. You know how his mother is.”

“True, but Cass should see his family. I know the Americans were planning on coming here. It’d be a shame if he missed them.”

“You’ve been quite secretive lately, you know. It’s been driving them crazy,” and then Theo smiled. “About damn time too.”

Hadrian grinned back. “I know and I lied to Blaise effectively. He bought my watermelon lie.”

“You can gloat when they return, but make sure I have a front row seat.” Then he looked at Hadrian. “Gryffindor?” He then prompted.

Hadrian was quiet and thoughtful and then he said. “Maybe you’ll know with all your reading and history. Is it possible for a Light family - known to be totally Light - to have Dark children?”

Theo blinked at this, then he shifted and dropped his legs to the floor. “I read in one of my books written by a Professor Eleazor Fig that at one time Light and Dark had no distinction, it was all magic. Everyone was everything.”

“Ancient Magic,” Hadrian said softly.

He nodded. “But overtime and too much integration and exposure to non-magicals and their culture slowly ate away at that. So, in theory, yes. If Muggles can have children who are entirely magical but they are not, then I don’t see why a Dark family couldn’t have a Light child and a Light family have a Dark child. I’d like to do more studying about that and family lines.”

“If you do, copy some notes for me.”

“Always do. I’ve been saving all the notes I take. But now I’m getting hungry.”

“And that is why I’m here. To remind you to come out of the tower and eat.”

As they made their way out of Ravenclaw, Theo couldn’t help but ask. “So, who is it? Someone from Gryffindor?”

“The twins,” Hadrian said over his shoulder.

“Really? Weasley?” Theo asked softly. Hadrian nodded and then he stopped at the spiral staircase, grinned, and then hopped onto it. Theo made a noise. “Really? What if you whack your head? How will I explain that to Cassius and Marcus? Or Blaise for that matter or your father?!” He looked a bit worried about that.

Hadrian giggled. “In about two years I might not be able to do this and I have to do it because of how tall this tower is. Just once.” So he moved himself into position and after checking his balance, Hadrian let out a cheerful whee as he went flying around and around, down and down the staircase until he reached the bottom and jumped off and yelped at the dizziness. “Oh - that was fun! Woo- okay! All the staircases have decided to multiply!” He staggered drunkenly only for something that clanked to reach back and grab his robes to bring him up right.

He blinked a few dozen times when he saw multiple suits of armor step back into their guarding position. Soon that multiple returned to one. “Thank you, Sir. Knight!” He chirped when Theo finally met him at the bottom.

“What was that?”

Hadrian shook his head. “Let’s go! That was fun, but I don’t recommend it unless someone is there to make sure you don’t walk off the grand staircase.”

Theo shook his head, lips twitching. “That’s okay. I’m not much of a thrill seeker.”

Finally, after an afternoon of hanging out with Theo, dusk settled in. Theo agreed to sleep in Adrian’s bed that night as Hadrian claimed Marcus’ bed. At least he wouldn’t be alone in the room.

Still, he had places to be and a three headed dog to see, so he patiently waited for Theo to stop reading and fall asleep. He was still dressed when he snuck under the covers, Theo was so absorbed in his book that he hadn’t noticed. Hadrian sat his pink pig aside and straightened his robes before checking the map. He’d been eyeing it every hour to check for movement near the corridor. It didn’t look like there were any teachers guarding it. Maybe there were ghosts?

Hadrian was impressed by how utterly empty Hogwarts was when he worked his way to Central Hall. On his trek so far he had only passed the Bloody Baron. He stopped to bow and greet the ghost who inclined his head and continued on his course.

It was fascinating listening to the inner workings of an ancient castle when there was no one around to disturb the silence. He could hear the water pipes somewhere in the stone walls, feel the flares of the magic all around him and at varying times, like the castle was taking breaths in and out. If he concentrated he could even feel small pops as house-elves moved around. It made his skin tingle and the back of his neck prickled as his fingers grazed along the stone.

Some of the portraits were snoring away. A few of them were murmuring in their sleep. Even the staircases were silent and sleeping wherever they were stopped. A few had done so in mid-air but once Hadrian got within arms reach one of them would slow and lazily swooped down for him. He brushed the railing and thanked it.

His footfalls were soft as he was let off at Ravenclaw Tower, but instead of going through the tower he made his way beneath it along the long blue high windowed corridor that he and Draco had discovered the night of the duel. As he grew closer to the forbidden floor area, he could feel something new that hadn’t been there the last time. An urging sense of moving forward and an unusual amount of curiosity folded around him drawing him closer and closer.

Odd. Yes, Hadrian was a curious fellow. He was an adventurer to the core and kind of a thrill seeker, but he was also kind of like his father where he would make a decision and execute it. He didn’t linger too long on the snap decisions he made. So why was the curiosity digging into his bones? Before the troll the hallway hadn’t made him feel like this.

He remembered the professors saying that there were added protections to the corridor to prevent anyone from accessing the corridor entirely.

So, had the troll in the dungeons been a distraction so that the enchantments could be removed? If so, was it really the Headmaster who sent it in? Maybe as a diversion and a test? Granger had been down there - had he expected the noble and brave Gryffindors to go in search of her when they noticed she was missing from the feast?

That was a lot of gambling on an eleven year old who couldn’t even transfigure a match to a needle. Only in the last couple weeks had the kid finally learned how to cast Lumos and Levioso with Granger’s tutelage.

He was soon trekking down a much tighter, more narrow corridor. No windows here, only a long graying runner rug. A few torches lit as he passed them by. He could feel the change in scenery as he snaked his way. He did have to hide behind a column when he heard the soft sobbing of the Grey Lady. He waited for her to float on by, her head bowed.

He felt sorry for Ravenclaw, she was the least helpful of the ghosts. Even when compared to the Bloody Baron who had never spoken to anyone before Hadrian. At least his house ghost was a jolly bloke who offered any ‘Puff a helping hand.

He stepped out from behind the column and reached an impossibly tall wrought iron door. It was an old medieval style door with an iron ring rather than a knob. He tried the door, noting it was locked. Not for long. “Alohamora!” He whispered as he tapped his wand softly on the ring. He could feel the lock mechanism turn and click.

He stepped cheerily into the room only to freeze as the door shut behind him. His back went right against the wall on instinct and he crouched down to minimize his position. His mouth was open and he couldn’t shut it right away because of the stunned surprise of the creature he was staring back at.

He supposed there was an obvious reason that he could smell the famous dog drool. All of its three heads were bigger than Hadrian and were attached to one body. It had dark coarse brown fur, or it may have been black. It was hard to know for sure in this dark room. Its eyes were large and black with glints of red in them. Its three muzzles and six sets of nostrils let out a snort when they smelled him. They had been asleep on their paws but now they were roused and all looking at him.

His eyes flickered briefly to the trap door below their feet. “Hi, puppy?” He flinched and drew back again when the dogs growled at him, the sharp canine teeth were long. “Not so puppy-like I guess.” Thankfully the chain that kept them in place did not allow for much reach as he saw the nostrils flaring to sniff him. “Kind of sad that you’re all chained up. Fluffy right?” Hadrian’s voice arced enough so that it pricked their ears. “You’re Fluffy. You are gorgeous. I’m Hadrian. I’m sorry you’re chained down.”

They continued to sniff, low growls spilled from their mouths and then tongues began to lick along their snouts.

Hadrian took in as many details as he could, his pounding heart had slowed in rhythm. He could feel the magic that was natural to the creature, could nearly taste the Darkness, and with their licking tongues to the air they must have tasted something from him because they stopped growling and seemed to swallow it.

All three heads came down until he saw all their eyes. Hadrian wasn’t foolish enough to approach them for a pet though the temptation was there. He observed them observing him. Curious now. He wondered if Hagrid was one of those who was inherently Light but because of something else might have some Darkness in him? Even if he didn’t want to? Hagrid was a massive bloke. He wondered what was in those genetics of his.

“You’re Fluffy right?” Hadrian tried again as the eyes peered back at him. Sometimes they sharpened, but then they relaxed as they flattened themselves until all three hands lay together on their human size front paws. “I’m sorry you’re chained up.” He shifted and sat cross-legged at the door to allow himself space enough to relax. “That’s not fair to you, the Light using you like this. You deserve to be out there and free running through forests and eating the stags that roam. Not here, in a cramped corridor. You’re not a Muggle guard dog after all.”

It snorted at him causing Hadrian to twitch as his hair blew. Hadrian continued to look at it in its multiple eyes. “Maybe if I come back again I’ll have something for you. A treat or something. Must remember to bring three, I wouldn’t want to leave any of you out now.” He imagined fresh or raw meat would be their food of choice. He wondered if there would be a way to get some fresh highland cows.

He sat with the cerberus, talking to it. He noted that their defensive stance had changed and they continued to look at him, more curious rather than vicious. “You really are beautiful, absolutely fetching. I wonder if Dad would let me have one? You could run in our forests, that is if Magnus doesn’t mind if he chooses to live there. Be much better than here.” He followed the chain and shook his head solemnly. He knew of course that creatures like Cerberus should not be within the vicinity of the average human. But that was their bloody fault for putting them in the situation in the first place. He was surprised that Longbottom and Weasley hadn’t become dog chow. How they got out of that situation, Hadrian couldn’t begin to know. It wasn’t like they were all that smart.

He spent about an hour talking and observing the creature and noted how tired it was getting. He nodded. “I’ll come back,” he said, moving to get up. It didn’t growl but it watched him cautiously. “Bye, Fluffy!” He shut the door and locked it back.

Chapter Text

Chapter Seventeen

“What should young people do with their lives today? Many things, obviously. But the most daring thing is to create stable communities in which the terrible disease of loneliness can be cured.”

― Kurt Vonnegut, Palm Sunday: An Autobiographical Collage

Each night after midnight leading up to Yule, Hadrian would go down and sit with Fluffy. He brought three fat winter rabbits that he’d caught one night. He hated to do it, but progress got nowhere without a bit of sacrifice. Sad too because the rabbits liked him. He’d done it humanely and quiet enough that they simply fell asleep and never knew.

He fed the rabbits to each of the heads. “No, no! Marcus. I just gave you yours. Let your sibling have it. I’ll bring more!” He chastised gently. Fluffy was a stupid name and so he had decided to name each of the heads. It’s not his fault that the first names that came to mind were Marcus, Cass, and Blaise.

Marcus was true to his namesake and kept trying to steal food from Blaise. Cass was shockingly the whiner in the middle of them. His real Cass didn’t whine, but he’d already named them so there was no going back.

Good tidings of food and by the night before Yule, Hadrian was stroking their paws. He made sure to keep his body out of canine reach. He even brought a ball of yarn and then expanded it before tossing it into the air at them. All three jumped at it before growling and whining because the chain didn’t have enough give.

“You boys need some exercise and that chain is doing you no favors. I’d release you if I could,” he told them. “Maybe soon.” He managed to pat their noses, one at a time. Their tongues would come out sometimes to tickle at him.

Theo had no idea about any of this. He was always asleep and the twins seemed to have vanished in the coming days. Hadrian hadn’t thought about gifting them anything until that night. He didn’t have much on him, but then realized that he did have a lot of beautiful feathers from Phoebe and diricawl feathers were really expensive and hard to come by. At least five to ten galleons a piece depending on the supply, Cassius had told him when he asked for a couple of feathers once. It wasn’t that diricawls were so rare rather that they liked to disappear and go invisible and so getting the feathers was a task that most people weren’t up for.

He took a handful of the feathers, a good dozen or so, and placed them in a long wooden box so that they weren’t damaged. He used one of Adrian’s gold markers he’d left behind to write their names on it.

Not as pretty as Marcus’ writing but it was better than Cassius’. He sent the gift with Hedwig before heading back to the dungeons for a good night’s sleep. He would have to shower, he smelled like a dog and yesterday Theo had made a passive comment on a weird dog smell.

Hadrian groaned when he awoke on the morning of Yule with the weight of something crinkling at his feet. He turned over in Cassius’ bed only for him to kick at something that fell to the floor.

“What-?” He sat up, still on his side and looked down to see that the end of the bed was overflowing with packages. Some had even spilled onto the floor. He tucked a lock of hair behind his ear.

He always got gifts on Yule. Usually a modest amount that would come throughout the day. Hadrian never truly needed much though he still held a childish grudge over not being able to get a pony when he was little. He turned and got on his knees, his pig moved itself out from between Hadrian’s knees as he peered up over the mound to see awake and smirking Theo.

“Looks like someone is overcompensating,” said Theo, chuckling. He had a good stack too, but Hadrian’s was a bit overwhelming if he were honest. “Blessed Yule.”

“Clearly. Blessed Yule.”

He had to pee first and so he climbed out of bed. His pig had rolled itself again out of the way as he staggered to the bathroom. Soon, he returned and collected all the letters to read first. All of his friends were upset that he hadn’t told them he was staying at Hogwarts for Yule. Cassius and Marcus were the most upset. Blaise understood though it annoyed him. Draco was wondering why Hadrian couldn’t come stay with him for the rest of the holidays and that it didn’t feel right that he was stuck in a dreary castle to spend ‘Christmas’ rather than Yule.

He opened all his gifts. His dad had really gone overboard, every gift came with a letter of apology like he was punishing himself for not wanting Hadrian home. Hadrian thought it was silly. He knew his dad could be a busy man. Hadrian would always be there waiting on him. He sat all the letters aside. A few had come on gorgeous cards.

He thought he was done with the gifts when he reached the bottom only to notice something soft and thin in one last wrapping. He frowned as he lifted it.

-Hadrian Rookwood, this item is an old family heirloom passed down through generations. It is a part of you and I will not have anyone stealing it on my watch. Do. Not. Let anyone know you have acquired this unless they discover a truth that does not need resurfacing. It’s rightfully yours and no one else’s- M

Who was M? Malfoy? Hadrian wondered. If this was an old heirloom why wouldn’t his father send it?

“What is it?” Theo asked, briefly looking up. “You look confused.” He was already reading a new book wrapped in crimson leather.

“Who is that from?” Hadrian asked, creating a distraction. He didn’t know the answer to Theo’s question and didn’t see a point in making the other boy as confused as he was. Not on Yule.

“Draco. Not really my kind of reading, but I appreciate that he’s given me a history book about Quidditch.”

Hadrian chuckled. “That sounds like something he’d send.” Reading the letter again, Hadrian was hesitant on opening the gift in front of Theo. It was flat enough that he wouldn’t see it over the foot of the bed. He touched it experimentally. It sunk in and a familiar magic seemed to prickle his skin through the wrappings.

Now he was curious. He made a snap decision, sliding the package behind him and casually getting off and grabbing some clothes that he’d laid out. “I’ll leave you to your reading and get dressed, then we can go get breakfast.”

“Fine by me,” said Theo, not looking up. Hadrian smiled at how cute he was. He’d managed to acquire a series of first edition fiction books. Some were thrillers and others were mysteries. A whodunit novel and thought Theo would appreciate them.

He stepped into the bathroom and laid his things on the counter and then brought the package around. He felt it again and then shrugged and ripped it open. His eyes widened at the contents.

Inside was a gorgeous invisibility cloak. His dad had one, but it was old and faded. It didn’t work anymore, but it was still valuable enough that his dad kept it. Heirloom? Hadrian’s mind boggled. How could this be an heirloom? Invisibility Cloaks lost their magic and beauty over a series of years. A decade was about the limit. But this… this was unlike any cloak he’d ever seen. He could feel that the magic was still strong.

It was gorgeous and felt like a watery fabric beneath his fingertips. It was silver with lighter silver intricate designs. He brought it out and it was sweeping and blanket-like as it trailed to the ground. It’d cover all of Marcus if he’d tried it on. From the reflection in the mirror it shimmered in an otherworldly sort of way.

This could not be from his dad or the Rookwood family at all. His dad would have said something, not to mention he’d have given it to Hadrian in person.

He was puzzled, and then staring at himself in the mirror his eyes widened. If not his dad but still an heirloom could it have been Potter? James Potter? He went back to the note that said not to show it off unless the truth got out. So, this was James Potter’s cloak? He knew now that Lucius Malfoy hadn’t sent it to him. None of his dad’s friends would have either. A friend of the Potters who knew the truth?

He didn’t know anyone who would have been friends with his birth parents and know who he now was. He couldn’t begin to guess what the M stood for. Steal it? Someone was trying to steal it? Who and what for? Someone on the Light, Hadrian would imagine. Could the twins-? But no, they had no idea about the Potter link nor would they and likely they’d keep the cloak for themselves.

So someone who might be Light but was an honest Light. Not an extremist and did not approve of this being handed to anyone but him.

It felt farfetched to think that the Headmaster would steal an old family heirloom from a child to try and give to someone else. But as the Light Lord he might. Maybe the sender took it before he could?

He puzzled on this while holding the cloak. Well, he should at least try it out. He shivered when he wrapped it around him and all but his head vanished. Not even a wave or thread that he was there. Not like a Disillusionment Charm, which Hadrian had been wanting to practice but hadn’t gotten around to it.

A map and a cloak? His adventurer’s spirit could help but cheer. It was going to make sneaking around too easy. He decided to follow the words of caution on the note. He would write to his dad about it, but he would not tell anyone that it’d been given to him. At least not yet. He was not ready for that truth to come out to his friends and those he loved.

He dressed, crimson stagskin trousers accompanied with a black long sleeved silk that tied at the sleeves with some silvery string. It was open in the front in a small V with the same silver thread spiral lacing. It was Yule, so he wanted to dress nice even if he wasn’t home. He finished with a silk vest of silver, burgundy wine, and black. It had silver shining buttons. His boots were fancier than his usual, giving him some extra height. He laced the black ties from his foot to his leg and then slid the leather at the top to the buckle on the side.

Blaise had sent him an entire range of haircare products for his hair and so instead of water he made use of the foam that made his hair shine as he ran a new brush through it. Blaise had given him detailed instructions, of course, to use a detangler that he’d gotten Hadrian before using his normal brush.

Hadrian shook his head. Blaise would be the authority on hair. Draco had also complained that too much water on his hair could cause it to dry out and tear. Says the boy who used so much gel that you could barely see his natural hair texture.

He finished with a velvet black robe that was sort of heavy but also light enough to sway. It had silver stitching in a tasteful pattern up and down the back and up over his shoulders. A spray of silver and gray intertwined down the sleeves of the robe. Might be a bit of an overkill, but it was Yule and he was a Pureblood.

He settled the gold locket to rest beneath the robe. Barely in view. He then folded the invisibility cloak and hid it beneath his other things.

Theo was dressed finely in silver and purple. Hadrian had been impressed that he could be pulled away from his new books. Like Hadrian, Theo’s outfit was very Pureblood in feel, so they matched well as they made their way out of the empty Slytherin dungeons.

“It feels odd that I’m not being pestered by Mother.”

“I’m used to dive bombing Dad and Dolphy awake even when it’s not Yule.”

“Who would have been hosting the midnight supper this year?” Theo asked. A part of the Yule celebrations every year was fasting for at least eight to ten hours before having one big supper at midnight followed by a bonfire that would be lit until New Years. On New Year’s Eve they would perform a dance around the bonfire. Kind of like a celebration to magic for giving them another year, and they did so in magic’s honor. It was said to bolster their magic for the coming year and then the fire would be put out and the ashes would be divided between all the families in attendance, and they’d be used in their manors until it ran out. Maybe next year, Theo and Hadrian would be able to celebrate with everyone.

“I think it would have been the Malfoys, last year it was the Montagues. I think the Puceys wanted to host it but had some issues pop up with their greenhouses that meant someone else had to.” Lucius was always quick to stand up and take over an event when needed. With the amount of money the family had, taking on an event last minute wasn’t a big deal.

As the two of them swept through the Great Hall, the smell of delicious food assaulted them along with even more decoration. Unfortunately, unlike the beautiful and tasteful decoration that had been up all of break, it was much more garish. Bright splashes of reds and greens covered every surface. Colored paper streamers hung along the walls and crossed the room in dizzying zig-zags.

Snow tumbled from the enchanted ceiling but never went further than the paper streamers before it disappeared and restarted all over again. Great big wreaths with gold bells hung above the roaring fireplaces on either side of the room. The staff table, that was now everyone’s table, had been dressed with a red and gold table runner, red place settings, green napkins, and gold candelabras.

It looked like a picture of a Muggle Christmas that he had seen one year.

A couple of Muggleborns were laughing and pulling on crackers, red and gold paper crowns on their heads. A handful of ice mice escaped and went running off the table onto the floor. One had stolen a piece of cheese before they puffed away. Peppermint candies and ice mice were spread across the tablecloth, the mice would chatter every now and then until someone snatched it and popped it into their mouths. Nearly everyone was there, but only Hadrian and Theo were dressed appropriately.

“Happy Christmas, Mr. Rookwood and Mr. Nott.” Hadrian hadn’t been paying attention and so he was surprised when the Headmaster addressed them.

They were the last to arrive it seemed.

“Blessed Yule, Professor,” both of them said the proper greeting despite how obvious it was that the man preferred the Muggle holiday. They made their way further along the table. He ignored Longbottom and Weasley who rolled their eyes.

“Really, dressing like that on Christmas?”

“Shut up, Ronniekins.”

“Before you embarrass yourself and us,”

“We’ve saved you and your fair friend a seat!” Fred cheered.

“All warm and toasty. Just for you!”

Theo looked at Hadrian who smiled sly at him.

“What? You saved a seat for them and not us?!” their brother whined.

“Of course,” they chirruped as Hadrian and Theo took seats. Theo settled beside Fred and Hadrian was in the middle of them.

“You’re not much to look at after all.”

“Talk about creepy.”

“We prefer to look at each other!”

Hadrian snickered.

“Blessed Yule, Weasleys.”

“Blessed Yule, sweet little honey badger.”

As the teachers greeted them, Hadrian tried real hard to stick to his manners and he nearly went into tears when even Theo couldn’t stop the choking from the antics of the twins. He tried so hard too, but they had their end of the table in an uproar. He was unsurprised when both of them leaned in and whispered ‘thank you for the feathers’.

“We haven’t seen a single diricawl since we arrived at Hogwarts.”

“Suppose they’re too smart for us.”

“Good morning, Mr. Rookwood, Mr. Nott. Blessed Yule.”

Hadrian raised his eyes to Professor McGonagall who was seated further down from the Headmaster. “Blessed Yule, Professor!” Theo copied him.

“I must say your robes are absolutely fabulous, Mr. Rookwood.”

“Thank you. I may not be home, but this is still Yule. No need to forget traditions.”

“Indeed.”

“Yule is so old fashioned, it’s Christmas! Don’t you know anything or keep up with the times?” Ronald Weasley scoffed. Unfortunately, Hadrian was going to have to start using ‘Ronald’ otherwise he was going to confuse his own brain with the number of Weasleys at the school.

“Yule has always been, Mr. Weasley, and always will be. You could do with some extra reading into your history,” said Professor McGonagall curtly.

“Not on Christmas. Christmas is for presents, paper crowns, poppers and food and being lazy all day.”

Hadrian and Theo could not hide the disgust on their faces. Fred and George said nothing and only shook their heads.

“So, Christmas is everyday for you, Mr. Weasley,” said Hadrian cheerfully.

“Nonsense, I don’t get presents every day.”

“But you are a lazy bugger.”

“And you eat like a troll that wiped his arse without washing first.”

Ron went bright red and Longbottom’s mouth fell open as a squeaky cough from the teacher's side showed Professor Flitwick had turned his face away. Hadrian noted that Professor Dumbledore did not look happy one single bit.

Theo spat out his drink before he could stop it. He hastily apologized and accepted a napkin from someone opposite of him and Fred. Hadrian had thankfully figured something was coming and had put his drink down dutifully.

“Boys…” McGonagall cleared her throat. Her stern gaze could rival Narcissa’s.

Both boys grinned at her innocently.

Hadrian was distracted from whatever else the twins decided to say by the hall doors opening again. He was surprised considering he and Theo had been the last ones in of those who were staying at the castle.

“What is Professor Snape doing here?” Theo asked in a whisper. “I thought he went home with no Slytherins staying over break.”

Hadrian could only shrug. What the sour man chose to do in his own time wasn’t any of his business, nor did he care. He had done well keeping off the man’s radar so far, despite the fact he basically lived in Slytherin. Hadrian kept a low watch on the man who bypassed everyone for the Headmaster. Just because he didn’t care, doesn’t mean he’d ignore something interesting happening. Hadrian noted that his hair looked washed for a change or maybe it was the dungeon lighting. But then there were plenty of students including him who had black hair that didn’t look like they’d been rolling in the black sludge of a manticore. He was still unpleasant, and Hadrian was affronted that many of the Light kids though he represented what true Dark was. He was Dark but not the right kind of Dark.

“Snape never comes to the castle during the holidays.” Hadrian flashed a look at Fred who was convincingly looking busy and as if he wasn’t paying attention around the table.

“As soon as break starts he’s gone and doesn’t come back until the last minute.”

“So what would bring him here now?” Hadrian asked.

“Ah, Severus, do you have it?” Dumbledore’s voice rumbled down the table.

“Of course, Headmaster. I’ve left it in your office. If there’s nothing else I’ll return home.” Hadrian watched from the corner of his eye as the man bowed his head in difference to the Headmaster.

“Splendid! Do have a Happy Christmas, Severus, and wish your wife and daughter the same.” Dumbledore waved the man off. Their end of the table was silent as the man strode past and out of the hall, door closing softly behind him.

“Snape has a kid?”

“Snape is married?”

“Brother, I think you’re missing the point - Snape has a child.”

“No. It is you who is missing the point - someone chose to marry him and fuck him.”

“No, that’s not the problem. It’s the fact that someone - a bird - would willingly spread their legs for him,” George finished, flashing a side-eye toward McGonagall to make sure she hadn’t heard that.

Hadrian’s lip twitched. “Well, if Parnell can talk someone into doing it, I s’pose Snape could too.”

Both boys laughed.

“Ah, Parnell…”

“He was such a joy when we first started.”

“He would preach every sunny morning in the courtyard as we, as wee-little first years would, rove passed.”

“He stopped doing it when a Chinese Chomping Cabbage got annoyed at being sermoned to death and chomped into his little Y fronts.” Drink carefully set down, Hadrian bursted into laughter. “Great memories.”

“Fetching ones. Always brings a tear to my eye.”

“And a tear to your trousers!”

“Sacrifice is progress, ugly.”

“I’m the one who was blessed, and the little honey badger can be witness to that.”

Theo’s shoulders were shaking but he had controlled himself and ducked into his book, but he was still laughing quietly. He wasn’t touching anything to drink again while the twins were seated at the table.

Hadrian was leaning into George, giggling, as Professor McGonagall let out a quiet breath and ignored them for her tea. George grinned over Hadrian’s head as he curved an arm around him.

“Not fair… just because you’re on that side.”

Hadrian was laughing so hard that he hadn’t heard the double doors opening to the Great Hall again. He had lost it completely. He was done trying to control it.

“Boys, if you send Mr. Rookwood to a laughing death it is not I who you have to answer to,” Professor McGonagall said and a devious smirk had crossed her face. Not something that was normal as both looked at her, astounded and probably impressed.

“Oh…” said Theo.

Hadrian tried to straighten, aware of George’s hand squeezing at him. “Oh, hello there, Warrington, Flint…”

“Such a lovely morning isn’t it? Blessed Yule!”

Hadrian, while still choking on his laugh, whipped around. He could feel his face was burning blood red from the laughter that he couldn’t control. His eyes shined when he saw Cassius and Marcus standing there. A cross between confusion, disbelief, and unhappiness was splashed across their faces. Easily seen despite their Pureblood masks.

“Cass! Marcus!” Ow, his stomach. Hadrian shifted and practically stumbled his way off the bench to greet them. “Hi! Blessed Yule!”

“Blessed Yule, but no distracting us. You disappeared. We are forced to leave and what do we come back to, sweetheart?” Cassius asked low and thick.

Hadrian brought up his shoulders. “Can I have a hug?” He asked instead of answering.

Marcus grunted and snagged Hadrian’s wrist bringing him closer. “You are ridiculous.” He shot glares over Hadrian’s head to the Weasley boys. Hadrian did not have to have eyes in the back of his skull to know they were smiling and probably taunting him because he heard Professor McGonagall.

“Boys…” It seemed to be her chosen moniker for them.

Hadrian wrapped his arms around Marcus’ muscled middle, and he breathed in the scent of the strong oak as Marcus’ hand ran through his soft hair. He looked over at Cassius who was still looking at him. His face blank, but cornflower blue eyes questioning and concerned.

“Cass?”

Cassius shook his head. “Later.”

“Come on, we have more seats for everyone!” Fred and George chorused at them. “Let’s call a truce!”

“For the sweet honey badger of course.”

“And Yule.”

“But mostly for sweet honey.”

“You’re f- kidding me?” Marcus grunted.

“Oh come on, are you that surprised?”

“If you know him as well as we expect you do why are you surprised?”

Cassius shook his head, hating the fact that they were right.

“Come on, they’ve been good to me,” Hadrian breathed when he folded into Cassius’ chest and inhaled the light scent of whiskey. “You’ll be pleased.”

Cassius dropped his eyes to Hadrian’s and then looked at Marcus, and seemed to make an instant decision. It looked like Cassius wanted to make a point because he wrapped around Hadrian, took him to the middle and sat down before pulling Hadrian down on his lap. A very public move for sure. Usually something only done when surrounded by other Slytherins and family. George even scooted down so Marcus could sit with them.

“See? We’re compromising.”

“Boys, did you get permission to return to Hogwarts?” asked Professor McGonagall.

“Yes, Professor,” said Cassius, situating himself easily. He was used to Hadrian in his lap. All of them were. “A letter should arrive from our parents in a couple of hours. We went through the floo to Rookwood Castle and arrived here by broom. We’re here just for the day, Lord Rookwood is kind enough to let us use his floo to return home later.”

“Very well, Mr. Warrington.” Hadrian was surprised she hadn’t made a remark of Cassius holding Hadrian in his lap. It looked like Dumbledore wanted to from the unpleasant expression that briefly crossed his face. Professor Sprout however kept engaging him in conversation that he couldn’t escape.

It was suddenly real quiet and even Theo leaned up to look at Hadrian. Fred and George had a pleased, shit-eating grin. George started a conversation about Quidditch and Marcus engaged but Cassius was quiet.

“Finish your breakfast,” said Cassius.

“My stomach still hurts from the muscles I’ve exercised,” Hadrian pouted, taking a sip of his juice. “Oh… so overworked.”

Cassius squeezed his sides. It was obvious he wanted to talk and ask, but wasn’t going to at the very public staff table. He was already breaking a lot of rules by showing public displays of affection or any emotion at all around those who aren’t in their circle. Rules Hadrian often tried to remember to follow but would often forget when his friends were around, even in public.

“We are happy to be of service!” Fred just had to go and say, causing Cassius to glare at him and Hadrian to grin. He finally managed to get some food in him. It was delicious, but he didn’t care all that much about it.

“I’m going to go back to Ravenclaw,” said Theo slowly. “So I can read and not destroy my new books. You good, Hadrian?” He asked the boy.

“Yes.”

“Good, maybe I’ll start in on those mystery novels you got me.” He was soon heading for the doors.

“Don’t forget your homework.”

“You think I didn’t finish that the first day?” Theo asked, brow raised. “What do you take me for? Weasley?” The last was said quietly enough the professors couldn’t hear. The twins laughed knowing it was said about their brother.

“I’ll not expect to see you until the first then!” Hadrian called only for Theo to wave above his head as the door swung closed behind him.

“Come find us in the courtyard in an hour,” said Fred. “All of you.”

“For now, Fred and I are going to make sure Ronniekins gets a good ‘Christmas,’” George mocked and the two redheads were off.

“Ready to go?” Marcus asked.

“Yep.” He snatched a couple of ice mice that skittered in front of him and he elegantly slid from Cassius to stand. His robes swayed in perfect precision. He had learned how not to be too rumpled, plus the built in charms helped.

“Good luck, Mr. Rookwood.” He thought he heard Professor McGonagall murmur.

She liked having the last line didn’t she? Marcus and Cassius were quiet as Hadrian smiled between them as they headed for the dungeons. A couple of ghosts flew past, the Fat Friar cheered at him as he went through a nearby wall.

Hadrian expected a lot of questions, but he didn’t expect silence when they got to the common room and then then their rooms. Even if it was empty, Hadrian knew that Marcus and Cassius didn’t want to chance anyone coming in on him.

Some of the wrappings were still littered on the floor. “Guess the elves are taking a break,” said Hadrian, moving to gather them only for Cassius to banish them with a single flick. Hadrian hadn’t learned the banishing charm yet. He hadn’t seen a reason for it right off the bat when they were scheduled to learn it in second year.

Marcus flopped down on his bed, smiling briefly, and then grunted when something let out an angry squeal. He pulled out from under his arse and the covers, Hadrian’s pink pig.

“Sorry,” Hadrian said as Marcus waved him off. Cassius came around to sit with Marcus leaving no room for Hadrian.

“Talk.”

Hadrian stared at both of them, really stared at them this time. He went back and forth. He had always known these two boys were different to him than the others. Even Blaise. He loved Blaise with all his heart. He was like another side to Hadrian, a more deviant side but his other side anyways. Blaise was his best friend, even more so than Draco. He also knew that it was returned.

But, these two had always been prominent. Even as small children they favored Hadrian. It wasn’t his dad who taught him how to ride a broom when he was five after all. It was Marcus. It wasn’t his dad who had shown him a cave for the first time. It was Cassius. His dad had not actively encouraged the cave exploring even though he had full knowledge of it. It was, after all, dangerous. But he never stopped Hadrian so long as he had the resources to protect himself.

“I don’t know,” he said finally.

“Why didn’t you tell us?” asked Cassius, and for the first time Hadrian could feel the hurt in his words.

“I didn’t really know how,” said Hadrian. “I mean, you had family coming in from America. I was sad when Dad told me to stay here for the holidays, but I wasn’t going to let you guys force yourself to stay here too. That would be wrong.”

“You don’t force us to do anything. I’d have much rather been here than home,” said Marcus.

“Just didn’t want you to give up your holiday for me.”

“That’s stupid,” said Cassius. “We want to be here with you. You don’t know that?”

Hadrian nodded. “I do… and that’s why I didn’t tell you. Besides, I have been figuring some things out around here.”

“Weasleys?” Marcus asked, staring at him. “What is that about?”

Cassius was studying Hadrian and then his eyes widened. “They are the Dark ones. The ones you asked about.”

“Seriously?”

Hadrian nodded. “Yes, they approached me before the Yule holidays. Just because I’m a Hufflepuff doesn’t mean I trusted them…” he said quickly before Cassius could say anything. “But, there is nothing wrong with listening.”

“But why would they approach you?” asked Marcus.

“Guess ‘cause they like me? They said they were drawn to me and my magic. They thought I could understand because of the way Hufflepuff feels. I can’t believe they feel that every day. I don’t know how they’ve not croaked.” He shrugged. “But they’re funny and they are Dark and they explained some things that actually made sense to me. Also, they gave me some really valuable information.”

“Information?”

“The Headmaster has chosen his successor for future ‘Light Lord’ and the Forbidden Corridor is a test for him.”

Cassius leaned forward. “Test? What’s in there?”

“The Philosopher’s Stone.”

“You’re joking,” said Marcus.

“No. I’m not.” Hadrian shook his head. “I’ve been doing some adventuring, exploring here and there. I’ve overheard conversations and Fred and George helped me with the missing links. They’ve also kept me company. I didn’t like waking up all alone.”

“You’ve been staying with them?” Cassius asked.

“No, I’ve been staying in Slytherin and I’ve sometimes convinced Theo to sleep in here too. But it’s been really quiet around here.”

“You could have said something, I could have at least stayed. I wanted to stay,” said Marcus. “If you’d have given me an excuse to do so my father could have dealt with her.” He hated calling his mother ‘Mother’.

“I’m sorry, Marcus. I didn’t think of that. I’ve been switching from bed to bed,” he confessed sheepishly. “Missing you both.” Both their sharp eyes softened.

“Come here.” Cassius held out his hand and Hadrian folded his smaller one into Cassius’. He was drawn to sit on the bed between Cassius’ legs as Marcus leaned in and kissed him on the cheek.

“I don’t like the Weasleys, but I guess some shit makes sense,” said Marcus.

“Sense?”

“You haven’t seen us play yet,” said Marcus with a vicious grin. “Nor seen how some of their jokes aren’t just funny but borderline cruel.”

Cassius inclined his head. “That is true. Have been since their first year.”

“What do they want?”

“Nothing. I asked the same questions. I asked about their family. It’s clear they love their family, but they said they wanted to protect them from themselves and the Light. They don’t know why they’re different. Just that they are. I can feel their Dark magic so it’s not a ploy or a gimmick.”

“I can’t really believe it though. Still not happy.” Cass squeezed him around the waist. “You know you’re ours right?” He asked softly, dropping a kiss to the side of Hadrian’s neck.

Hadrian’s chest tightened and his heart swelled twice its size. “I know that and I know your mine. I know you’re different to everyone, including Blaise. But not how, I’m still trying to figure that out.”

“We know that,” said Marcus. “It took us a while to figure us out too.”

“We’re still sorry for not writing to you last year, sweetheart. But we knew we had to figure things out first.”

Hadrian leaned back and kissed Cass and Marcus both on the cheek. “I forgave you. I’m starting to understand now why you didn’t write. I’ve only written to Dad a couple of times since I’ve been here. A lot of things easily take your attention.” He was thoughtful and then remembered something else. “Fred and George also said that the Headmaster came by their house before the start of term. It seems he’s been riling everyone up believing that Riddle is still alive and out there. I don’t know if he really believes that…” He felt both of the boys stiffen. Cass drew back. “Or if he’s using it as a platform to do what he wants.”

“You need to tell our fathers about this.”

“I’ll send word to Dad with Phoebe. I’ve already got the letter half written,” he told them. “I haven’t really given the boys anything more than some of my time and an ear. It seems that’s all they want from me right now.” He shrugged causing both Marcus and Cassius to scowl openly. “But I won’t turn down their friendship.”

“Why not?” asked Marcus.

“They are too funny, that’s why,” said Hadrian, making Cassius snort. “No, really though, I won’t deny anyone who wants to embrace their Dark side and after one full night in Hufflepuff, I understand that they are craving some connection. So if my friendship is all that they want from me, then they can have it.”

“I bet that’s not all they want,” Marcus muttered as Cass elbowed him.

“It’s all they’ve asked for, Marcus.” Hadrian frowned at the older teen. He was getting better at catching the references sometimes. “None of us know what the future will bring, but that’s all they’ve asked for now and I don’t see a reason to deny it.”

For a while Cassius held him tight, and no one said a word and then Marcus snorted. “Figures.” He’d been playing with Hadrian’s hair.

“Figures, what?”

“Of all the people, it has to be you.”

“Me what?” But Marcus just shook his head, dark grin on his face. “What?” Hadrian huffed as he shifted from between Cassius’ legs to kneel over Marcus, swinging his arms around his neck as he did so. Marcus squeezed him around the middle, drawing him down to sit properly in his lap. “You keep hiding things from me and you’re going to be sorry. I’ve already learned to successfully lie and to Blaise of all people. Don’t test me!”

Cass gasped. “You would lie to us?” he said in mock shock.

“Only to protect you from yourselves,” Hadrian giggled slyly.

Marcus made a noise. “We’re older.”

“But not all that wiser. I have a Ravenclaw daddy after all.”

“Ouch, burn, sweetheart… not nice!” Cass laughed, and it was a good healthy laugh. You didn’t hear it often.

“Unfortunately, he is not wrong if the Slytherin points are anything to go by,” Marcus said grinning as he pressed a kiss to Hadrian’s cheek. “I think you’ll be a main factor in us winning the cup this year.”

“Nevermind he’s a Hufflepuff that everyone, including his own Head of House, thinks is a Slytherin. Despite the cute yellow robes he wears,” Cassius pointed out as he flopped backwards onto Marcus’ bed. He was a lot more relaxed now.

“I never correct them so it often goes unnoticed unless a 'Puff starts whining about it,” Hadrian giggled. “What do I care about who gets points and all that?”

“House loyalty, but to the wrong house.” Marcus grinned.

“Sounds like you’re complaining. Finch-Fletchley complained using those words the other week.”

“Never complaining, sweetheart. Enjoying the fact that even Professors know who you belong to.” Cassius reached over to pat Hadrian’s leg while still lying down.

“I’ve learned that Professor McGonagall is a smart enough witch to pick and choose her battles wisely. I like her.”

“That doesn’t surprise me. She’s like a Light version of your father.”

“She might be Neutral,” said Hadrian.

“I haven’t been that close to her or paid enough attention to notice.”

“Me either, yet. But she doesn’t come off as strictly Light. I’m not an expert considering I’m just eleven, but there’s this feeling about Hufflepuff, not magic. Something else - like they are too bright. Same with Longbottom, Dumbledore especially, but not Professor McGonagall.”

“You might be able to sense auras. Graham can see them sometimes, but he doesn’t talk about it.”

“It’s not an aura. I’m not a seer.”

“Didn’t say seer, baby.”

“Just a feeling. Like, right and wrong. What feels right is right and what feels wrong is wrong. She’s not really either. She’s somewhere in the middle, like Mr. Ollivander.”

“We didn’t get to know Mr. Ollivander like you did,” Cassius pointed out as Hadrian shifted off Marcus to get between them. He slithered on his belly up the bed as Cassius’ palm stroked his cheek and neck. Marcus lay down and turned too. Cassius grinned over Hadrian’s head at him. He curled an arm around Hadrian’s waist, pulling him closer so that they could all fit easier on the bed. Even with Marcus and Cassius on their sides it was a tight fit. The Hogwarts beds weren’t as big as the beds they all had at home.

“Seems he has a habit of knowing everyone whether we like it or not,” said Marcus.

Hadrian giggled. “Yes, like that centaur I met.” He waited for it and then...

“WHAT?!”

Hadrian giggled even more furiously at the expression on their faces. All Pureblood nobility had broken. He rolled over to be on his back between them still giggling.

“Centaur?” Cassius hissed between his teeth. “You have to be pulling our leg, Hadrian…” It was rare for Cassius to use his actual name.

Hadrian shook his head, rubbing the back of his head against Marcus who swept an arm around him and pulled him from Cassius. “He’s joking. He has to be.”

“I’ll let you decide if I am joking or not. He could give you a run for your muscles. Muscles for days.”

Classic, the reactions were absolutely classic as Cassius let out a noise and looked away. “Figures…”

“I think the Weasley twins want to have a snowball fight. I heard them discussing it while I was laughing around my drink.” Marcus and Cassius turned to look at him, and then smirked deviously.

“I’ll be in for that. I could do with practicing my aim,” said Cassius.

Marcus nodded. “You can ref.”

Hadrian pouted. “Why can’t I join?”

“Not advised. We have a lot to get them back for.”

“Back?” Sometimes, he didn’t understand these boys, but dammit he loved them. All he got in return for his one word question were a pair of nasty grins. Even Cass could be nasty when he wanted to be.

Chapter Text

Chapter Eighteen

“The world’s greatest achievers have been those who have always stayed focussed on their goals and have been consistent in their efforts.”

― Dr Roopleen, Words to inspire the winner in YOU

All four of them had to make a stop at the Hospital Wing that night. Hadrian had partaken in snowball fights before, but he had never heard of them being so bloody.

Cassius’ pretty face was gushing with blood that Hadrian had a hard time stemming. Marcus’ arm had been disjointed at the shoulder and one of his fingers was outright missing. Just a stump with a dribble of blood.

Fred and George? Well, both were as happy as a niffler in Gringotts laying on twin beds beside each other, bloodied, broken, and covered in the same multiple of bruises that Marcus and Cassius had.

It only stopped when Professor McGonagall broke them up. Hadrian had been sitting on an ice made chair thanks to Cassius, but Fred had to go and piss him off by removing his ugly Weasley jumper and spreading it for him to sit on it. George had warmed it for him with a flick of his wand. That was when Marcus bashed the twins with the first snowball. It’d been full of rocks and pebbles.

Hadrian didn’t bother to interfere and figured they’d figure it out once they passed out from blood loss.

Longbottom and Ronald had come out to this while on their way to Hagrids. Both had been terrified when one of the twins turned on them and sent them flying through the air away from them. A hard throw for sure and Marcus had even complimented the arm.

Being Beaters, they knew how to swing.

But, then the boys had to leave and that made Hadrian sad. Theo had been unaware of all of this, tucked away safely in Ravenclaw. He hadn’t even come down for supper that night. He probably got lost in his books. Hadrian was sure he had enough candy and fudge from his gifts to get him through the night, he was slightly worried about the boy getting enough proper food though. He promised himself to check on Theo every few meals if he didn’t show up himself.

He finished his night by spending it on the third floor with Marcus, Cass, and Blaise. He’d procured them some chickens this time as they were easier to get. Hagrid had so many in the coop behind his house he’d likely not notice the three gone. One for each of them as they all swallowed the birds, feathers and all.

It wasn’t until New Year’s Eve that Hadrian managed to really pet them for the first time. All three of them. He pet each between their massive eyes. “Good boys. You are brilliant and beautiful…” He soothed each of them as he ran his fingers through their coarse fur. His small fingers barely made a dent in the fur as he tried to give a harder scratch between their eyes. A nuzzle from one though had the habit of making him stagger. Even gently, these guys were giants. The puppy form must have been adorable.

The last night of break they even let him open the trap door they guarded. Hadrian didn’t drop down, not knowing how far of a drop it would be, but he did shine a light in. The lumos spell very handily showed him a mass of vines below. He couldn’t tell the distance nor how thick the vines were, but thanks to his time at the Pucey greenhouses and with Albert, he knew the vines were Devil’s Snare. He closed the trap door and left the cerberus to its guarding duties.

As life began to return to Hogwarts with the arrival of the Hogwarts train, classes resumed. Blaise was going to have a little sister in the summertime and it seemed she would be a full sister since Blaise’s father had been the donor.

A Hufflepuff versus Ravenclaw game at the end of January wasn’t as entertaining as when the Gryffindors and Slytherins played. It was tame and from Marcus’ words. “Boring.” Chang almost caught the Snitch within the first half hour, but Cedric had thrown her off course. Hadrian was surprised to see that Cedric had snatched the Snitch right before her, but Ravenclaw still won. It was unusual. It’d been the closest capture so far. Chang’s arm was just a bit too short.

It wasn’t until the middle of March that the snow and ice began to truly melt around the castle, the Black Lake thawed and the giant squid could raise its tentacle back up out of the water for the first time as the sun began to shine first thing in the morning.

Most of the grounds had turned into a miniature Black Lake. All the small hills and dells around the castle were full of water. Some of the hills further out couldn’t even be seen. A lot of mud was trekked in through the castle, infuriating Filch to a degree where Hadrian thought he would have a real heart attack. No one would cry if he did, not even a 'Puff. Hadrian was sure of it.

If it wasn’t for Hadrian’s robes, and sometimes a mention from the other 'Puffs, he would have forgotten he was a Hufflepuff. Ernie seemed to have finally decided that Hadrian was a traitor. Not that Hadrian cared. Cedric was still too sweet for his own good and the Weasley twins - well - they were not boring at all. Cassius and Marcus hadn’t told anyone about the Weasleys’ alliance because Hadrian had asked them not to. It wouldn’t do for Draco to go blabbing and somehow it got back to their parents or even the Headmaster. So it was best that all was quiet about it. Theo didn’t need to be asked.

He never once neglected the puppy on the third floor because once you softened their hearts, they were stinky, drooly, slobbering little puppies with three heads. Somewhere through it all, Draco seemed to have amped up his hatred and rivalry with Ronald because they were back at it again. Back and forth to the Hospital Wing until one night Hadrian was coming back early from watching quidditch practice. Since Gryffindor and Slytherin were set to match each other in May, both teams had exclusively reserved the fields. Marcus had even added an extra three hours of practice after supper. Adrian had complained he wasn’t going to have enough time to finish his homework, but Marcus didn’t give a shit about people’s homework. That was not important. Not compared to beating the Gryffindors.

Hadrian was almost back to the Slytherin common room when Draco came running down the hall like his life depended on it. Even his hair couldn’t stay still. He was more ash white than usual and he seized Hadrian’s Hufflepuff robes with both hands. “D-D-Dra- it - it!”

Hadrian waited for him to spit it out, but he kept opening and closing his mouth. Finally, Hadrian grabbed him by the shoulders, pulled his robes from the boy’s hands, and smacked him with both hands on his cheeks to wake him up.

Draco jolted and then puffed out. “Thanks…”

“What happened?” Hadrian asked.

“Dragon.” It was all he said at first.

Hadrian arched a brow. “A dragon?”

“Dragon. He has a dragon.”

Interest rose. “Who?”

“That oaf of a Groundskeeper! I saw it through the window of that filthy hut. Granger, Longbottom, and Weasley are down there right now. It was hatching and then it popped out… of the egg… he has a dragon.”

“Not fair!” Hadrian groused with a pout. “I want a dragon!” He pulled away and huffed. “Why does he get the good ones? Where’s he getting these creatures from?!”

“Hadrian!” Draco squalled. “A dragon in a hut made of straw and wood, at the edge of the Forbidden Forest, and Merlin knows what else holding it together.”

“So? If they all burn up, who cares?” Hadrian asked logically. “But a dragon… oh Merlin, can you imagine a dragon flying around Feldcroft?”

“No!” Draco practically shouted.

“Shhh. Keep your voice down.”

His eyes were wide like saucers. “You know it’s illegal to hatch one outside of a Reserve.”

“So are a lot of things. And I wouldn’t have hatched it, Hogwarts did.”

“But, Hadrian… he has a dragon.”

“Is it a baby?” Hadrian asked, getting that gooey feeling inside of him.

“Yes, it just hatched. That’s what I’m saying!”

“I have to go see this! I wonder if Dad would let me have one if I do well on the exams.” He made to leave only for Draco to seize him.

“You can’t. I’ve already told McGonagall.”

“What?!” Hadrian squawked and frowned at him. “What did you do that for?”

“They’ll be expelled! For sure this time. They can’t get out of it,” said Draco cleverly.

“But… why would you-” Hadrian stopped and rolled his eyes. “I forgot just how petty you can be. Honestly, there are a thousand better things to do when you see a baby dragon and wanting to expel a bunch of brats is not one of those things!”

“What is then?” Draco asked, hurrying to follow and keep his voice down.

Hadrian was now at the end of the hall. “Stealing it.” He disappeared through the door leaving his godbrother stuttering in the dungeons.

A dragon! Say what you wanted about Hagrid’s loyalties, but that man had good taste in creatures. He was almost starry eyed and sorrier than one could imagine because as he was making his way to the Entrance Hall. The doors flew open before him and Hadrian had no time to hide or duck.

“Of all the silly nonsense!” McGonagall was shouting to herself. Hadrian turned to go the other way. “Mr. Rookwood!” Her voice was sharp and whippy.

Hadrian turned and smiled. “Yes, Professor?”

Her eyes narrowed as she walked across the floor to meet him. “What do you know about a dragon and the Groundskeeper’s hut? Your friend Mr. Malfoy mentioned seeing one there but he was blathering so much… I feel like a fool.”

“I love Draco,” said Hadrian. “But, he tends to get scared of his own shadow sometimes, Professor. Did you see this dragon?”

“No, and when I went to check there was nothing there.”

“May I ask why you thought to believe him? I mean, maybe someone was trying to get him back. I know he can be pretty nasty to the youngest Weasley and Longbottom at times. He’s a bit spoiled.”

“Clearly, but unfortunately the story isn’t out of the ordinary for Hagrid. He sometimes can’t understand that some beasts aren’t friendly with the public masses. Good heart, terrible set of brains.”

“I think a couple of detentions to sort them all out would be a fair compromise for having you run in circles all night and wasting time.”

“Yes, that was my thoughts exactly! I’m disappointed in Granger.” She sniffed. “She’d shown such studious aptitude.”

“Friends can make you do silly things from time to time. It’s clear that Granger was a lonely child before coming to school. She didn’t inspire friendship at first,” he said, appealing to the woman, causing her to nod her head. “But, whatever I think of the boys doesn’t matter. It’s clear she’s finally found friends. I’m glad for that.” He knew how to play on his Hufflepuff side and that had her smiling.

“Your friends could do with you rubbing off on them from time to time.” Then she looked thoughtful. “This isn’t the way to the dungeons, Mr. Rookwood. I know the Slytherin team has finished with their time on the pitch, so where are you going?”

“I forgot a book with Theo and I think he’s in Ravenclaw Tower, Professor. I was doubling back to go there and ask for it.” Hadrian didn’t think twice about lying to her and was glad he could get it out so smoothly. “He showed me where the tower was over Yule. I only remembered that he might have the book when I was on my way to the dorms to work on homework before bed.”

Professor McGonagall nodded. “Very well, best be on your way. It’s almost curfew and it wouldn’t do to be caught out after curfew. I’ll write up the detentions for tomorrow. Punishment should always happen right away, leave it for a few days and the impact is lost.”

“Thank you, Professor.” Hadrian made his way toward the Grand Staircase and went all the way to Ravenclaw. No need for some portrait to tell her if he didn’t go. Theo would be happy to let him borrow a random book for his story, especially if he returned it over breakfast.

Draco was going to pout at the detention, but that was alright. It was a small sacrifice and Draco really needed to think outside the box.

He ignored the stares when he answered the riddle and swept through the tower like he owned it. Roger Davies nearly dropped his book. “Rookwood?”

Theo raised his head. He was sitting in an armchair with the other first year Ravenclaws. “Hadrian?”

“Hi, Theo, I came to borrow a book. Please?” He asked with a big smile on his face.

“How did you get in here?” asked one of the first years he never cared to know the name of.

“He’s a Rookwood, what do you expect, Mandy?” asked Padma Patil. “His father was a Ravenclaw and is an Unspeakable.”

“Oh…”

Theo leaned forward, making it obvious to the other Ravenclaws that their conversation was private. Like Hufflepuffs, Ravenclaws tended to be considerate of private conversations happening in their common room. “What did you do now?”

“Just gave Draco detention and now I need a book that looks like it’d be a reference book for class,” he grinned as Theo looked at him oddly.

“You gave Draco detention?”

“Pretty much.”

Theo shook his head. “Sometimes, I wonder if the hat got it wrong.” He reached into his bag and produced a book. “Not this one, I’m still reading it.” He dug further and finally pulled out an advanced copy of Charms In A Decade.

“Cheers, Theo!” Hadrian pressed a kiss to his cheek as he took the book. “I’ll return it in the morning.”

He made his way back towards the entrance and stopped when he noted Roger Davies staring at him. “Good game against Hufflepuff by the way.”

The boy shook his head and then smiled. “Kind of embarrassing though, we didn’t get the Snitch.”

“But you still won. I think it’s more embarrassing to get the Snitch and lose than the other way around.”

“Are you going to try out next year? You would probably make a killer replacement. Cedric isn’t that small after all.”

“Nope. I just like watching! See you.” He held up the book so Roger knew he meant no harm by wandering into a common room that wasn’t his, and he swept out of Ravenclaw just as he came in.

He stood on the landing of the Ravenclaw Tower and took out the map of Hogwarts. He knew he should have checked it before running off after Draco’s news, but he forgot in his excitement. The first thing he checked was for anyone in his proximity and only saw the names in the Tower. He folded it around to next check the grounds. He saw Hagrid but not the Gryffindors. He searched the map, shifting it and folding it in different ways so that it remained compact.

Seems McGonagall had finally rounded all of them up. He saw Draco, Granger, Weasley, and Longbottom in her office. He didn’t have to be a fly on that wall. Since she was distracted with them, Hadrian decided to go check out this baby dragon. He couldn’t wait to see it!

Hagrid came out as Hadrian was making his way down the stairs. He hid behind a large protruding stone nearby as the man huffed and puffed his way up to the castle. Probably to try and help out the Gryffindors.

He grinned and took his opportunity to fly down the hill. He was so excited that he forgot about the dog Hagrid owned. The dog was in the yard around the hut and Hadrian stopped right in front of it.

It looked up at him and tilted its head. Its eyes were kind and all the wrinkles around its face made Hadrian more sulky about Hagrid getting the good beasts. “Hey there, Fang, right?” He thought he’d heard Hagrid saying the name at some point.

Fang sniffed at him and Hadrian delicately raised his hand to pat him on the head. He was jumped upon and licked in the face. “Urgh… okay. You’re a puppy too. Got it. I’ve come to help Hagrid.”

Fang barked as if in understanding, turned, wagged its stumpy tail and headed back into the hut. Hadrian wrinkled his nose at the heat that flowed out. “Goodness.” Already sweat was forming on his neck and beneath his hairline. “Now if I were a baby dragon, where would I be?”

The sweat and smell of the house annoyed him, but none of that truly mattered. Not the extra large furniture that was sturdy. Not the wood scrubbed table or the hard as rock cakes that looked like balls of molasses. No, what was interesting was the sleeping creature that was nestled in a wooden box hidden behind a cast iron pot-belly stove.

Hadrian had to hide his outward squeals as he approached it and knelt down. “Oh, you are so cute… Just a wee bairn, aren’t yah?” It was small. About the size of a newborn human, maybe a little smaller. Its wings were small and delicate and it opened its eyes blearily, raising its weak head. “Hi there.”

It hiccuped and flames spilled out over the box causing some of it to start burning. Hadrian quickly put it out with his wand. “Draco wasn’t wrong.” He was tempted to snatch it that night, but knew that patience was its own reward.

He stroked the creature, asked about what it was and what kind of silly name Hagrid had given it. Fang was sitting on the floor looking pleased with himself. Not a very good guard dog, Hadrian thought.

The dragon let out a strange chirrup noise. “I should study dragons some more. Who knows? Maybe you will be mine.” He then had an idea because he knew the basics of creatures. He didn’t need a class to be told that scent was everything. He stuck his hands into his pocket and pulled out the green silk handkerchief that he always kept with him.

McGonagall was right, Hagrid didn’t have much in the way of brains. He’d probably think one of the Gryffindors dropped it. It wasn’t monogrammed or anything, but it had his scent on it. Hadrian wiped the sweat from his neck and then he tucked it beneath the baby dragon causing it to let out a sound as it bumped Hadrian’s hand and nuzzled into the silk.

This way the dragon would remember him. Dragons were extremely clever beasts. Interesting bit of information though dragons could be either Light or Dark magic depending on their species. Swedish Short Snout was a Light dragon and so was the Common Welsh, but Hebridean Black and Chinese Fireball were Dark.

Hadrian didn’t quite know what this one was, but he’d find out. It was going to be his, one way or another. If he already had it and it was already attached to him, his dad wouldn’t be able to say no, right? He’d give in. Eventually.

Maybe.

A couple nights later, and after Draco whined about a detention that he didn’t deserve, Hadrian decided to spend time near Hagrid’s hut in hopes of overhearing more information. He had been sneaking in from time to time when Hagrid was gone to check on the dragon. He’d overheard Ronald in the library talking to Hagrid about getting a hold of his brother who was a dragon keeper in Romania. Hagrid however didn’t want to send ‘Norbert’ away, what an awful name for a dragon, and looked tearful at the thought. Granger tried to be a voice of reason and pointed out the burns on his hands and how half of his furniture was now crispy fried.

“Honestly, Hagrid, you’re going to have to do something. If you get caught with a dragon you will be in so much trouble and so will the Headmaster,” Granger pointed out logically.

“I know, but - but I’ve always wanted one.”

“How did you even get it, Hagrid? Dragon eggs aren’t exactly found at a dragon egg shop.” Not a bad question from Ronald. Hadrian was hunkered down in the far corner of the room. His invisibility cloak had become very useful recently.

“I won it from a chap in a pub over a card game.”

“Gambling you mean?” Granger frowned. “Gambling is wrong, Hagrid.”

“It was a lot of fun,” Hagrid defended. “Besides, Norbert don’ mean no harm. He’s just trying to get used to his flames is all.”

“He might not mean any harm, but he is going to harm you and your hut,” said Longbottom. “Besides, we are already in trouble.”

“Professor McGonagall thinks we set up Malfoy,” Weasley scowled. “Tried to trick him or something.”

“She probably didn’t know what was going on and so decided to give detention to us all fairly,” said Granger waving her hand.

“Fairly she says. Snape’s not all that fair.”

“Snape’s a greasy git,” Smith snarked.

“Professor Snape,” Granger corrected. “Hagrid, let Ron send a letter to his brother. If not for you, then for Norbert. He needs to be with his kind.”

Hagrid looked sad at that. “I guess I should… Dumbledore has done a lot for me. I don’t want to see him in trouble.”

“Exactly.”

Hadrian was so distracted over the next couple of weeks and he knew he concerned his friends. Draco kept frowning at him and asking him what he was planning. When their friends inquired about what he was talking about he shook his head, refusing to talk about it. Marcus, Adrian, Terry, and Cassius were distracted by Quidditch at least. Hadrian always knew that sport would come in handy one day.

It finally happened and Hadrian had been waiting for it. He’d been camped out just inside the brush of the Forbidden Forest when it happened. Hagrid’s hut began to smoke and smolder more than what his chimney usually let off. He’d been out here every day for the last couple of days. He would watch the Gryffindors coming and going and whenever Hagrid stepped out of his hut, Hadrian would go in and check on the sweet little dragon. He’d also been doing research in the library and learned that the dragon was a female Norwegian Ridgeback, which were interesting creatures because their alignment could switch depending on the environment they grow up in. It was only a pity Hadrian did not have a mother dragon to go with her.

A great shout from inside the hut was followed by the door bursting open. Hagrid came bumbling out of the hut. His beard was nearly gone and he had the dragon’s wooden crate in his large hands. “Go Fang!” He ordered the dog who went whining away as flames streaked out of the hut.

Hagrid came closer and closer to Hadrian’s spot. He was panicking as he looked over his shoulders to see several Professors descending from the castle in a hurry with their wands out, ready to put out the fire that was now catching on the thatched roof. Hadrian was hidden under his cloak and went completely unnoticed.

Hagrid puffed and placed the box very close to Hadrian’s vicinity. “Stay there and be good, Norbert!” He patted its head and then turned and ran back.

“Hagrid! What in the dickens?!”

“S’rry, s’rry professor! I was boiling tea and Fang upturned it.”

“What did you have in it to cause this, Hagrid?” asked Professor Flitwick.

“Oh, well, some mead maybe… a little ale…”

“Hagrid!”

Hadrian quietly stepped out and around the lovely creature who was making soft noises caught between growling and chirrups. He was delighted when he saw the silk green handkerchief was in her mouth. Gently, Hadrian cast a freeze flame charm on the creature’s body. If the dragon had been any bigger, and its scales more thick and full of its own magic, Hadrian wouldn’t have been able to do that. But, as she was only a hatchling, she had yet to grow into all of her strength and powers. Hagrid was right. She was learning to use her flames, and while Hadrian loved dragons he didn’t want to be burnt to a crisp. Could Hagrid not do magic? He couldn’t be a Squib. Justin Finch-Fletchley had said he’d repaired a stool with his umbrella. Not a wand? Odd.

Hadrian reached into the box and carefully withdrew the creature like she was a human baby. She made a funny noise as Hadrian rested her on his chest. Hadrian giggled when the dragon’s neck stretched out and her snout bumped at Hadrian’s chin. She was still so small, but her wings were growing. She let out another chirp as Hadrian drew the cloak back over his head and the rest of his body. He wrapped the dragon in it too. He cuddled the creature to his chest as he took the long way around back to the school.

He had made a few plans regarding the dragon. Feldcroft could do with some more creatures after all and they had the space. It would take another month or two for the dragon to be able to survive all on its own. Until then it needed constant care. Usually, its mother would be right there for it, but there was no mother for this wee bairn.

Hadrian could have allowed Weasley’s brother to take her to the reserve, but that seemed a shame. It would never be truly free at the reserve. It would always have to fight for its space and territory. If she were with Hadrian, she’d never have to fight to belong.

He snuck his way around the professors and flaming hut and was soon in the castle. He admitted to not being all that careful about the slipping and sliding of the cloak as he was moving quickly. Thankfully most of the teachers were busy with the hut. He saw the Gryffindors rush past him in haste.

“Oh no! I knew this would happen!” Granger groused.

“I hope he doesn’t get in trouble. Charlie hasn’t written back yet.”

“What are we going to do? I don’t want to get in trouble again!” Smith grunted.

Hadrian didn’t bother to listen to any more as he headed into the dungeons. The dragon seemed to heat up against his body making him feel incredibly hot beneath his robes and the cloak.

Hogwarts recognized his presence enough, despite being under the cloak, to open the serpent’s entry and he swept through and up the stairs. The main room was near empty now, most were in their rooms. He didn’t see his friends and so made his way to the boys room. He opened the door as he felt cold flames shoot out on his chin causing him to shiver.

“What the fuck…”

Hadrian almost cursed, when two of the boys rose from their beds.

“Ghosts don’t come in here…” Marcus growled as their wands came out.

“It’s me…” Hadrian squeaked and used one spare hand to pull back the cloak’s hood. “Don’t shoot me, please.”

Cassius and Marcus’ eyes widened. “Hadrian!”

“How do you have an invisibility cloak?”

“What are you doing?” Cassius asked as Hadrian closed the door, carefully keeping his cloak closed about the dragon.

He threw off the invisibility cloak and Marcus caught it, gaping at the soft watery substance but that was not what Cassius was looking at.

Instead, he was staring at the cuddling baby dragon pressed to Hadrian’s chest. “Fuck…”

“Isn’t she cute? Do you think Dad will let me keep her?”

Both of them watched as Hadrian walked across the floor and settled on Marcus’ bed before placing the dragon down.

“And if it burns my bed?” Marcus asked, still holding the cloak.

“She won’t. I’ve cast a freeze flame charm on her body. I’m not that stupid, boys,” Hadrian chided them. “A Norwegian Ridgeback is a fascinating dragon, their alignment shifts depending on the environment they are in. Most dragons are set depending on the species, but not this girl. I’ve been checking in on her every day for a few weeks. Giving her my scent and stuff. See?”

The baby dragon let out a spill of flames but they did no damage as she tried to flap her baby wings. Cassius couldn’t resist getting closer to look at her as she tried to crawl to Hadrian. She nipped him on the knee, tearing a small hole in his trousers.

“You can’t keep a dragon, Hadrian,” said Marcus, looking fascinated and exasperated. He came around to sit behind Hadrian to watch the creature over his shoulder.

“She is a beauty. I’ve never seen a dragon up close,” said Cassius, reaching out to stroke her scales. “But Marcus is right, what are you going to do with her?”

“Well, I thought I only need to keep her for six more weeks and by that time we’ll be leaving for home. So if I can just hide her, she’ll want to be out on her own and I can release her in Feldcroft forests. She can be free, not holed up and used by the Light like they do my puppies!”

“Puppies?” Marcu asked, confused. “What puppies?”

But Hadrian waved them off on that. “Anyway, I’ve already made some preparations, but I’m going to need help once we get her out of the school. I was hoping you’d help, Cass. You have that multi-compartment trunk.”

Cassius looked at Hadrian flatly. “And if my trunk goes up in flames?” He’d been stroking the creature who rather liked the attention.

“I’ll buy you a new one, but we should be able to renew the spell on her every day for a few weeks at least. She hasn’t gotten her scales yet, so she’s still squishy.”

“How are you going to feed her?”

“Raw meat, that’s easy to get.”

“Easy to get raw meat?”

“Yah, I’ve been feeding some to the puppies for a while now.”

“Puppies…” Cassius looked at Marcus and back at Hadrian. “I have a feeling that this isn’t the cuddly kind of animal I’m thinking of.”

Hadrian shrugged. “Doesn’t matter.”

“He’s saying it doesn’t matter, which means it matters,” said Marcus.

The baby dragon let out a deep hiccup causing the flames to spill out harmlessly. Cassius chuckled. “Well, at least you thought to freeze her flames before you kidnapped a dragon. That’s something at least.”

“Can I keep her? Just for now.”

Marcus rolled his eyes. “We are not the ones you need to ask.”

“I want to be there when sweetheart tells his father. I have to be,” said Cassius. He stopped stroking the dragon and stroked Hadrian instead. “You are ridiculous.” He kissed Hadrian on the forehead. “The things we do for you.”

“You have a dragon…” Adrian said in shock, quickly noticing what was on Marcus’ bed. He obviously was awoken from his sleep. “You stole a baby dragon,” he said faintly.

“And he wants it to room with us,” Marcus pointed out gruffly.

“Please?” Hadrian batted his eyes up at Marcus who scowled at him.

“Fine, but I don’t want it to wake me up biting my feet like it’s a hamhock.”

“I’ll take care of her,” said Hadrian as he leaned down to coo at the sweet creature. It nuzzled at Hadrian’s chin and face, chirping back at him. “Such a cute bairn, yes you are!”

“Oh Merlin…” Cassius sighed. “Well, if this is going to happen we should probably do it right.”

“We’re seriously going to sleep in the same room as a dragon?” Adrian queried.

“A baby dragon,” Hadrian corrected. “She’s really very sweet. Just don’t tell Draco. He was scared enough as it is and I barely managed to clean his mess up. I almost didn’t get her! Silly boy. He can’t think outside the box. If it’s too much, I can always go back to Hufflepuff with her. I don’t know how, but I’ll do it.” Maybe she’d eat Parnell. No one would miss him and his shrimpy penis.

Cassius and Marcus scowled at the idea of it and Adrian rolled his eyes. “No, because if you go back to Hufflepuff, I’m never going to sleep in this room with these two again. I’d rather take the dragon, thank you. I’m going back to bed. Don’t burn down the room.” He fell onto his bed and rolled before flicking his wand. “Silencio!”

All three of them laughed at Adrian’s grumpiness. It wasn’t every day a boy gets a dragon.

Chapter Text

Chapter Nineteen

“The best index to a person's character is how he treats people who can't do him any good, and how he treats people who can't fight back.”

― Abigail Van Buren

It wasn’t often that Cassius would willingly sit on a floor, but he was now often found there because the little dragon was starting to scamper across their floor. He liked feeding her and watching her in the morning. Hadrian, without question, always procured animals to feed her. Hadrian was surprised when Marcus agreed to cut them up for him. Hadrian had done it before and didn’t have a problem with it, but Marcus insisted. Hadrian and Cassius took turns feeding her. Hadrian would carefully wash her every single night and rub her down with an oil that Cassius had procured for him because it was good on scales or skin that was growing scales. It prevented the skin from getting raw and drying out. After giving her breakfast they would then spend time helping her with some movement and motor skills. They’d tire her out for a nap so Hadrian could get to class. He did have to skip History of Magic and Defense a few times at the start though.

Within one week she started showing color on her body. Sometimes the scales she grew glimmered green, black, or deep blue. Cassius could fuss all he wanted, but he thought she was beautiful and encouraged her to come to him. No one knew about her, and Hadrian hadn’t gotten a chance to talk to Blaise about her yet. Seemed he and the seventh year weren’t working out too well. Blaise seemed to be appalled when the seventh year had told his friends they were exclusive. Blaise then had to go and make ‘friends’ with one of his buddies. Yeah, that was a mess that Hadrian didn’t want to observe first hand. Adrian never told the others and he warmed up to the dragon when she nuzzled at his knee one night. It was super cute. Even Marcus was fascinated by her.

There wasn’t any information shared by the professors regarding Hagrid’s hut catching fire, which of course led to rumors flying about the school. One day, when studying in the library with Draco, Hadrian overheard Weasley complain about the fact that Hagrid lost the dragon before his brother could come collect it. Granger thought the dragon was still in the forest and was wondering why no one was coming to get it. Weasley’s guess - it was dead and that’s why no one bothered.

But, Hadrian couldn’t get distracted. He had one more thing he needed to do before the end of the year. He’d been planning it carefully. Not like the haphazard plan he’d had for Astra. Astra was Greek for Star, thanks Professor Sinistra, and a much better name for a dragon than ‘Norbert’.

He’d managed to get beyond the trapdoor and used some fire to draw back the Devil's Snare. He found himself in another room after getting through the vines. Another defense? He followed the sounds of wings flapping and found the room full of keys with wings and a broom waiting on them. He had gotten as far as the live chess board only to stop as he looked around it. He tried to slip around the board only for the queen to rush out and stop him while pawns blocked the far door.

So, he couldn’t get around it and if there was one thing that Hadrian was absolutely terrible at and his dad could not teach him, then it was chess.

Shit.

He did not leave without noting the putrid smell of a troll coming from the door beyond the pawns. Hadrian had gotten up close and personal with one after all. No one forgot their smell after encountering one up close and personal.

Hadrian had to have a good long think about this as April bloomed all across Hogwarts and the valley. Fall was Hadrian’s favorite time of the year, but spring was pretty close since everything was bright, green, and beautiful. Cassius on the other hand was a summer boy through and through. He loved the warmth that came with summer and had the worst allergies in spring. Poor boy kept sneezing every day.

Professor Sprout sent them out to collect some Mary Fae Bells along the grounds of the Hogwarts. Most were white with a glowing yellow bell in the center, but the large petals came in all pastel colors too. They weren’t anywhere near the forest though as they were infused with a rich Light magic. Good for use in a Cheering Potion or even in a salad. Pretty though they were, Hadrian noticed every time he tried to harvest them they’d wilt.

To keep from getting a bad grade, Hadrian waited until Longbottom sat one of his jars down to get a new jar. He snatched it for himself to turn in. It was the best he could do.

The Muggleborn’s Easter Holiday came upon them and they had a week of no classes. Nevermind that they still had to attend during Halloween. Everyone was required to stay at the castle for the week, except for Muggleborns and Halfbloods who lived in the Muggle world. Those students were encouraged to go home to spend ‘Easter’ with their families. Some of them complained about only having a one week break. A question to the Twins revealed that ‘Easter’ was only one Sunday in April but that many Muggle schools took two full weeks off. Hadrian was disgusted that they were yet again following Muggle traditions, even if only partially, but he did enjoy the week of no classes. Meant more time with his dragon and his side project.

The Saturday following the week off would be the last game of the season. Gryffindor versus Slytherin. Marcus was beginning to lose his mind. Even when he was ‘taking a break’ he was sitting in the common room near one of the lake windows. His legs would be splayed and he’d be slouched, off in his own head about the strategies he’d come up with and what they had or hadn’t improved on.

Cassius was doing both their homework, though his writing could not compare to that of Marcus’. They were careful to have Marcus copy the answers to a new parchment before it was turned in however. He was sure that once Quidditch was over Marcus would return to doing his own work. Graham helped with Arithmancy, doing the best he could considering Marcus was a year above him, but Marcus definitely had to spend time correcting anything Graham got wrong before it was turned in. He couldn’t turn in less than his usual or Professors would start picking up on what was happening.

One night Hadrian came downstairs after putting Astra to bed. She was now cuddling with his stuffed hippo in Cassius’ trunk and seemed to like it there. He sucked at the tiny bite on his thumb as he wandered over. He noted that there was a chessboard by Marcus’ elbow. He moved and sat on the teen’s thick thigh, perching daintily.

Cassius smirked. “He’s been gone for a while now, sweetheart.”

“What’s with the chessboard?” Hadrian asked, shifting closer and leaning his side against Marcus’ chest. He smiled as the teen subconsciously wrapped an arm around him.

“He’s been going through every play that we have practiced or not practiced. He keeps thinking of a million different strategies and things happening.”

“You can’t predict everything,” said Hadrian.

“I know that and you know that, but well--” He waved his hand at the frozen teen.

Hadrian chuckled and brushed his nose along Marcus’ jaw. “I didn’t know he was good at chess.”

Cassius frowned. “I’m sorry about that,” he said, looking guilty.

“Sorry?” Hadrian asked, raising his finger and gliding it along Marcus’ strong cheek bone.

“He picked up the skill last year. I’ve never seen someone pick up chess so fast.”

“It’s one of the few things that Dad could never drill into me.” Then Hadrian straightened. A smile spread across his face. “Oh… that’s brilliant!”

Cassius arched his brow. “What is? Should I be worried?”

“Yes,” said Hadrian, honestly making Cassius let out a breath and then he chuckled quietly. “Maybe after the match Marcus can help me with a side project.” He rubbed his hands giddily.

“Side project? You’ve already acquired Astra, what more have you been up to?” Cassius asked.

“Now, now Cass. Do not go spoiling my surprise.”

“Sweetheart,” said Cassius carefully as he sat down the quill. “Your surprises are borderline terrifying.”

“But I’m never predictable.”

“So true.”

Hadrian resumed his perusal of Marcus’ face as he tucked his legs behind him on the teen’s knee. He studied the ridges Marcus’ frown created like they were fascinating and then Marcus’ eyes blinked to awareness. Hadrian smiled as they were almost nose to nose. “Hi.”

“Baby.” His hand came up to squeeze Hadrian’s side. “How long have you been here?”

“Enough to harass you.”

“He’s about to involve you in something precarious,” warned Cassius, sliding closer.

Marcus arched a brow and Hadrian shook his head. “Just need your chess skills. After your match of course. It can wait.”

“What can?” Cassius asked.

“No.” Hadrian shook his head.

“Sure. I think I’m done. Nothing more to think about.”

Hadrian watched him from up close and then he kissed Marcus softly on the lips before pulling back. “Thank you.” His frown was gone, his eyes were wide.

Cassius was chuckling softly. “Yeah. Imagine that but a hundred feet in the air.”

“Wha-?”

“What?” Hadrian blinked. “I kiss you both all the time. What’s with that shocked look?” He asked innocently.

Cassius’ eyes were warm and soft. Marcus was now stroking down his back. Light gentle motions. “Sweetheart, you kiss our cheeks all the time. It’s a shock for somewhere else.”

“Oh…” Hadrian hummed. “I hadn’t realized.”

“Why did you do it?” Marcus asked.

“I wanted to. Why else? Is that okay?”

“Yes.” Both answered, and Hadrian warmed completely.

“Okay.”

He snuggled against Marcus who locked his arms around him tight. Cassius reached over and stroked his hair. “You are interesting, sweetheart.”

“I don’t know why. I’m just me.”

“That’s what makes you interesting. You can’t hold a mask to save your life. It’s like you are your mask.”

“I don’t think we get anywhere hiding who we are all the time, and I don’t really hide. I get why we have what the masses call a ‘Pureblood mask’ but it sucks that it’s needed as often as it is. I show what I want when I want and when it’s best. Sometimes, I don’t show anything. But I never really hide. The ‘Pureblood mask’ makes it too easy for them to discriminate against us.”

“Big word, sweetheart.”

“Blame Dad, he’s always using large words. Dolphy hates it.”

He didn’t understand why Cassius was looking at him so differently, but he liked the way they looked at him. Both of them. He unconsciously licked his lips tasting the oak flavor on them from Marcus and it got him thinking a bit too hard for the rest of the night.

On the morning of the Quidditch match, Hadrian and his friends grabbed the best seats they could, having awoken extra early in the morning so they could get to the pitch early. They wanted the best seats before the Gryffindors bombarded the stadium with their riot of scarlet and gold banners. He’d had to get up at four o’ clock to make sure Astra wasn’t fussy. All the boys needed their sleep, but it didn’t matter. Marcus hadn’t been asleep. Hadrian doubts he slept at all that night.

Marcus and the twins had said that the game between Gryffindor and Slytherin was going to be brutal. That was an understatement. It was the quickest turn to nasty that Hadrian had ever seen. Fred’s arm whipped through the air hitting the Bludger and knocked Terry into the stadium stands near the teachers. He’d done it so hard that Hadrian was sure something cracked on the newly turned fourteen year old.

A second later, Adrian was retaliating, sending George almost off his broom. No one had scored yet, but the Gryffindor Chasers were zipping across the field. A dark skinned girl with a streaking ponytail currently had the Quaffle. He knew she was good, Cassius had to flatten to catch up to her. She swerved around toward Marcus and then she held still for a brief second. A Bludger came whizzing toward her and Marcus. She took the hit but still scored putting Gryffindor on the board first at 10-0.

Lee Jordan, despite being a ‘neutral’ commentator, definitely favored the Gryffindors. Hadrian didn’t fully blame him, that was his house and he was friends with the Twins. Sadly it made for some lopsided commenting.

Marcus fired back at the Gryffindor Chaser, taking a foul to bash her in the face causing her nose to explode. Lee Jordan cried out about the dirty tactics and a foul. Cassius ran circles around the Weasley’s, one of the girls tried to intercept, this one was blond and thin. She got caught in the crossfire of the three of them and in the chaos Cassius snatched the ball and made for the play. Adrian and the other Beater surrounded Wood, circling and circling as Bludgers came their way. Wood had to duck and Cassius took the opportunity to score so that it was tied.

Back and forth, it got dirtier, both sides started fouling and Hadrian saw that Fred and George were even instigating fouls on their own team. It was cleverly hidden from the Gryffindors, but it was like they were taking all their aggression out on the Bludgers.

Terry had to be patched up before he could continue on and Hadrian spied the Gryffindor Seeker searching the skies desperately to try and find the Snitch to end it. Hadrian thought that Terry might have a chance because the Gryffindor was more muscular than him. Even if he saw it first, Terry could get there faster.

Hadrian drew his eyes away at the sound of a pained groan only to see Marcus had done a fly up and then a fast dive down to smack hard into the blonde with the Quaffle. It wasn’t a foul, but it was brutal.

For an hour the score ended up tied at 10-10 before Slytherin managed another goal. Gryffindor fouled giving Slytherins a second chance but Wood caught it before it could get through.

“Bloody Hell, I’ve never seen a game so nasty,” said Theo. Even he had been distracted from his book enough to just stare.

“Look at all that blood and the muscles. Say what you want about the Weasleys, but damn they have an arm,” Blaise purred. Hadrian grinned. Oh right, he did not know that the twins were Dark. He’d let him know soon, or not and watch it rile up Draco. It depended on his mood and how he was feeling.

“How’s that boy of yours?” Hadrian asked, momentarily distracted.

“Delusional and going to find himself dropped shortly if he doesn’t bloody lighten up. His sixth year friend, that blonde guy with the small mustache, is at least up for fun without strings.”

“Just don’t get hurt or I’ll find a way to hurt them.” Hadrian kissed him on the cheek before turning his attention back to the game.

“Of course not, precious. No one can hurt a Zabini.”

Draco rolled his eyes at a play on the field. “Stupid Weasels!”

The Gryffindors were going crazy in the stands, Lee Jordan couldn’t hardly keep up with the commentary because two or three different things were going on at the same time. Marcus had purposely fouled by stealing Adrian’s bat and swinging, aiming to hit George in the back of the head with it as he flew by. He ducked right before it could make contact.

It was tied again.

Hadrian started to search the skies in hopes of catching another glimpse of the Snitch. He hadn’t caught sight of it the last few games but then he hadn’t really paid attention. So now he was looking around. He also noticed that Terry would sometimes glance at him and follow his eye line. Hadrian hoped he didn’t cause the boy to lose the game, but then he saw something sparkling out beyond the hoops. It could be the sun, but Hadrian leaned forward slightly trying not to squint his eyes and give anything away to the Gryffindors.

“Ooh, that is going to hurt in the morning!” Cassius was nearly lynched by Fred and George. Blood was streaming from his face but he was ignoring it.

Terry shot off in the direction of Hadrian’s stare. He hoped he wasn’t leading the boy in a false direction but then there was a lot of loud noise and Lee Jordan was screaming. “And the Snitch has decided to show itself and Higgs finds it first! Can Donaldson catch up or will his big muscles slow him down?!”

Terry nearly fumbled it, the Snitch was zooming away now but he was on a chase. Donaldson was intercepted by Marcus who let two Quaffles through.

“Foul! For intercepting the Seeker!”

It gave Terry enough time to duck beneath a Bludger and snatch the Snitch before it could get further away from him. Nasty game, but a hell of a lot of fun. The score ended up being 240-80 and the blood soaked teams were done. Most were heading to the ground on opposite sides of the field.

Hadrian was on the move, this time Marcus was off his broom and they moved to help Cassius who looked a bit dazed from all the Bludgers. “Oh, your nose broke again…” Hadrian blotted his face with a handkerchief.

“All worth it,” he said, sounding nasally. Hadrian had no way to kiss him without getting blood in his mouth at the same time. He was soaked in it.

“I think one of those beastly twins knocked my arm into Hogsmeade,” Adrian grunted. “I can’t feel it…” Graham came around to help Adrian with Blaise.

Marcus hooked an arm beneath Cassius and wrapped around him as Hadrian got on his other side, nevermind how small he was. “I ain’t putting my weight on you, sweetheart.”

“Shut up and do it.”

“You heard him. Do it.”

Draco went over to help Terry and grill him about being Seeker in a game against Gryffindor. If Draco was really going to try for the team next year, he would want to get as many pointers as he could while it was all fresh.

Most of the team had to put off the party for the next night. Nearly all of them wound up in the Hospital Wing for some reason or another along with most of Gryffindor. Madam Pomfrey could be heard complaining and lecturing about how stupid the sport of Quidditch was and how it gave her way too much work.

Hadrian had sat on a stool while Cassius and Marcus were fixed right. Adrian went to sleep off his injury after getting a Healing Potion. Terry was more disoriented than hurt, the same could not be said for the dark skinned Gryffindor Chaser who was on the opposite side of the room.

He was pleased to know that Cassius’ nose went back to perfect with some potion and a brutal hand-done crack from Madam Pomfrey, who seemed to take pleasure in the pain that flashed through the boy’s face. He didn’t scream though. Just gritted his teeth and bared it.

Fred and George met them outside of the Hospital Wing with grins. “Good game, Slytherins!”

“Let’s do it again.”

“Real soon!”

“You lost,” Marcus pointed out.

Both shrugged. “It was fun.”

“All that matters.”

“See you later. Little honey badger,” and they headed into the Hospital Wing to get themselves fixed up and play nice with their fellow Gryffindors.

Cassius looked over his shoulder. “I felt them on the field.”

“So did I,” said Marcus.

“I told you. I told you!” Hadrian teased between them.

Cassius groaned and slung his arm over Hadrian. He was still disoriented and tired. “Yes, I guess you did. It’s incredible and scary sometimes.”

“But not that scary,” said Marcus. “I do not like them calling you a honey badger.”

Hadrian shrugged. “I don’t mind.”

“We do,” said Cassius. “You’re ours.” He tightened on Hadrian.

Hadrian turned into Cassius and stroked the boy’s handsome cheeks and kissed him on the lips. Cassius reacted back, not so stunned this time. Hadrian then turned and kissed Marcus. Soft and gentle, tasting them both at the same time in his mouth. He liked the combination. It was smooth. ”Congratulations. Slytherin won the Quidditch Cup.”

oOo

“I don’t understand, have I not given him enough clues, Severus?”

“Pardon me for saying, Albus, but you have chosen the worst possible Champion.”

“I had hoped after the troll that Miss Granger would have been of more help.”

“She’s as much of a rule monger as they let her be. You should have chosen Diggory.”

“His father was too cautious of me. He doesn’t trust me, which is a shame.”

“You have made some choices lately, Albus, that’s caused all sides to bristle.”

“It can’t be helped, they don’t understand what I sense. Something is growing more and more, and I’m too old. I don’t know how long I’ll be around to help stop it and I want to make sure that our choice isn’t a foolish one.”

“What are we going to do, then? Maybe we let it go and try next year. We have the second trial for him, and if it involves them directly then they might act.”

“Yes, you did exactly what I asked for. I had no idea that one of those was still in existence. I wonder how many though? That is what is important.”

“Is he going to return, Headmaster?”

“I cannot say, for I do not know what took place that night. I can only theorize. It did not happen the way I expected it to.”

“Are you willing to risk an entire school of children in the hopes that Longbottom makes it to the top?”

“Maybe I’ll visit Miss Granger this summer. I bet if I tell her the truth of the matter, she’ll be more diligent. If all else fails I shall turn and look at other options. I feel Diggory would soon be out of reach to me.”

“What about Rookwood?”

A sigh. “Fascinating child. He’s been able to do what I have not been able to do within a few months. But I cannot get close to him. I don’t dare. At least not yet. I do not know what kind of magic affinity he is. I want to say Neutral, but knowing who his father is…”

“No one really knows what Rookwood was. He was clever as any Ravenclaw, Albus. He did not react like the usual Death Eaters. He had managed to get oaths out of the Dark Lord in return for his services.”

“That is the only reason why I kept Igor’s information away from the Ministry. He might prove valuable in the coming years. No, there’s something about the child… Minerva seems struck by him. Favors him.”

“Does she? I haven’t noticed. I thought she was favoring those blasted twins! But if she’s drawn to him wouldn’t that make him Light? Minerva is a devoted Light witch.”

“She’s had more time with him to interact. Perhaps next year I’ll make time too. See what she’s seeing. He’s still young after all. Not adult enough to make the most clear decisions like Diggory.”

“They aren’t that far apart in age, Albus. You better tread carefully, the Board of Governors is watching us.”

“That is a shame, yes. But it is no matter. We still have our foothold. I simply wish I knew what was coming to us. I feel a change in the air. I have since that night. If only I could find the Potter child.”

“You really think he’s alive after all this time?”

“I do.” Another long pause. A deep shuddering breath, and some movement like a pacing up and down the flagstone floors. “Severus?”

“She cannot know. Her mind isn’t well enough for that, Albus.”

“Understandable, now. You want to help me get this to the end? Just in case a student gets clever enough to go looking for the stone, I would not want it to wind up in the wrong hands.”

“We can’t use magic?”

“It’s made of Ancient Magic. It cannot be moved by the magic that we hold now in our hands. No, we will have to do it the hard way. Maybe one day when we eradicate the Darkness, Ancient Magic will return, and your sweet little daughter may be there to witness it. I am doing this for her, for your wife, and for all those who will come after us when we are no longer on this mortal plane.”

This was a conversation that he was not supposed to overhear. Hadrian carefully stepped back. He had been coming down to see Fluffy regularly still, and so he’d been surprised when he’d gone down there to see another room beside Fluffy’s half open and with the Headmaster and Snape discussing something while standing in front of an old wrought mirror. He’d felt the Ancient Magic the moment he stepped into the corridor. That’s how he knew to hide beneath his cloak, otherwise he’d have been caught red-handed.

“Do we have to do this tonight? Could we move it the rest of the way tomorrow during classes? I really must return home. You know how delicate she is when I’m not there in the evenings.”

“It shouldn’t take long, Severus. No more than a half hour once Fluffy has been put to sleep with some music. Once we move it I’ll find a way to give Granger a hint that will lead them to it. Maybe something more obvious, they are only eleven after all. After I send the letter I’ll add monitoring wards but not before, in case Minerva discovers them and chews me out again.”

“Just send her a note telling her that the one who stole that ridiculous dragon is coming for the stone. Do not sign it, change the writing, and she will take the bait.”

Professor Dumbledore chuckled. “Simple is always best, isn’t it?”

Hadrian scampered back down the hall and hid in the darkest part he could find. He did not trust that Dumbledore couldn’t sense him. He had no idea what kind of powers a Light Lord even had, but it was obvious he had very little Ancient Magic now. Maybe just enough to still be considered the Light Lord.

He waited a lot of heartbeats until Dumbledore and Severus came round the corner just out of Hadrian’s sight. “Ulgh, that fetid creature! What are you going to do with it when this is all over with, Albus?”

“I will let Hagrid know that a friend in Romania will take him while silently seeing to its humane execution. We cannot allow something like that - though rare it is - to survive. It’s full of Dark magic after all. In the wrong hands it could be lethal.”

Hadrian’s eyes narrowed into points at this. Oh, hell no! Hadrian thought, his mind mimicking Cassius when his parents were around. He’d unchain it and let it run free through the forests first.

Music, huh? The Pups would be okay with Hadrian, but probably not with Cassius and Marcus if he were to get them. He had to get that stone. He had to take care of this as soon as possible. Even if he never used the stone. He’d like to see what kind of magic Dumbledore used and what’s more, take something from the Light and help his dad and the cause. It was obvious that Dumbledore cared nothing for the Dark. At least Hadrian was neutral when it came to the Light who weren’t extremists.

A lot to do and little time to do it, but he’d get it done.

He was up all night because he knew it would take time for Snape and Dumbledore to get that heavy looking mirror down to the room. He checked his map while sitting on the floor by Cassius’ open trunk.

Astra was going through a sleeping phase. She was growing like a weed and currently as long his legs but she curled so cutely. Her scales glimmered in the soft torch light. Everyone had gotten used to having her in the room. Even Adrian would wander over to check on her from time to time to find her playing with her hippo that Cassius bought her on one of his trips to Hogsmeade or gnawing on a leg of mutton. Her face was still dreadfully cute and she didn’t have spikes yet. Just little bits on her head that looked like hair strands stuck up. Her eyes were a keen yellow, changing from the blue she was born with.

Cassius was the first one to wake. “You’re still dressed in yesterday’s clothes, sweetheart.” He noticed it while yawning at the same time. “Did you sleep at all?”

“He’s going to kill my pups, I can’t let him do that,” said Hadrian tightly.

“Huh? Merlin, it’s too early for you to not make sense.”

“I’m sorry.”

He shook his head and slid off the bed onto the floor behind Hadrian and wrapped around Hadrian tiredly. He leaned against the bottom of the bed. “You could tell us what you’ve been up to.”

“I told you that the Headmaster chose Longbottom to be the next Light Lord right?”

“Yes.”

“I also told you that he’s been setting up trials for him. What I didn’t say is I want to go through them. I want to steal the stone the Headmaster is hiding.”

Cassius paused on his stroking of Hadrian’s hair. “You want to steal the stone? What for?”

“For one, it’s Ancient Magic and we wouldn’t want that in the Light’s hands, would we? Think about it, Cass. Magic I used on that troll could potentially be in his hands.”

Cassius actually paled at the implications. “Well shit.”

“Shit what?” asked Marcus, coming off the bed with a thump. He slid onto the floor less gracefully. His hair was all over his head as he scooted closer. Cassius told him what Hadrian had said. “What do you need us to do?”

“I need your help. You, Marcus, are brilliant at chess. I’ve scouted most of it out. I also know there is a troll down there. I managed to get as far as the chess set. I couldn’t get around it. It’s an insanely clever form of transfiguration so I think that’s Professor McGonagall’s doing. Anyway, I overheard them last night when I was going to see the pups.”

“You keep saying pups.”

“Uhm, well it’s best I show you rather than tell you. Anyway, I overheard them talking and the Headmaster is planning on tricking Granger to get Longbottom to go down there and try and get the stone. Weasley will probably join in.”

“But they are rubbish at magic, both of them.”

“Granger isn’t, no matter her blood. She’s clever.”

“So, what, they want to see if the bastards can do it for shits and giggles?” asked Marcus.

“I think it’s a test. You know how Defense is around here. It is terrible. I suppose that’s the Headmaster’s plan all along. Leave us in the dark, train his Champion. So I want to take that away from him. Either way, I’ll do it and find a way to free them. He’s going to kill them and I won’t have that.”

“Why do I get the feeling we’re going to have another weird pet?” asked Cassius, looking down at the dragon who had snorted out a few flames over the hippo.

“Gorgeous. Not weird.” Hadrian pouted.

“They can describe the same thing, sweetheart.” He smiled at Hadrian.

“Are you calling me weird?”

“Yes.” Both of them said in unison.

Hadrian tilted his head. “Just checking. I know I am, and that’s why you love me.” Both didn’t deny it.

“So, we’re going to follow you into Merlin knows where?”

“You said there’s another troll?”

“Yes. I don’t know what else. But I’d like to get it before they do.”

“What if it’s a trap?” Cassius asked.

“No reward without a bit of risk,” said Hadrian.

“That was too Gryffindor-ish,” Marcus grunted. “Think Slytherin.”

“I’m not all Hufflepuff either.” Hadrian thought about it. “Everyone sees what you appear to be, but few know what you are.”

“Sounds like a Ravenclaw.”

Hadrian rolled his eyes. “I just want to do it, okay? I want to win. I want to beat them at their weird game and they don’t have to know it.”

Cassius laughed and pressed his forehead to Hadrian’s. “There you go. Do what you want, take what power you want. That’s more Slytherin.”

“Well, when are we doing this?” asked Marcus.

“Tonight. We need to do it before the monitoring charms get put up. Does anyone know detection spells?”

“We do,” said Cassius. “You don’t want to involve anyone else?”

Hadrian shook his head. “The less the better.”

Marcus couldn’t help but frown. “If I hadn’t been good at chess, you never would have told us would you?”

“Not today, no. Not until after I did it so you can’t be mad. I’d rather seek forgiveness than permission.” He smiled cheekily and that had Marcus grabbing him and pinning him to the floor at the same time that Cassius assaulted him with tickles beneath his arms and down his sides. “Ahhhh! No! Cass! Marcus!” He couldn’t flail if he wanted to as he squealed. His whole body spasmed as his back bowed.

“Ulgh, you broke the silencer… seriously!” Adrian groaned beneath the loud pitched squeals of Hadrian’s laughter as his body twitched and recoiled.

“‘Nuff! Please! I’ll sick my dragon on you…!” He fought desperately and then it all stopped. Hadrian was left almost sobbing as both boys hovered over him. His heart raced and he giggled insanely.

“Low blow. She’d tried to eat us,” said Cassius.

“Least she’d get a good hearty meal?”

“You should say that in a couple of years,” said Marcus, bending down and kissing Hadrian on the nose.

“Okay? But she’ll be bigger then.”

“So will you,” Cassius quipped as he pulled back, taking Hadrian by the hands to sit him up.

Hadrian smiled. “Thank you,” he said sweetly. Cassius and Marcus shook their heads at him.

He had to think about how to get the cerberus out of the school. How on earth did they get it in there? He couldn’t imagine Hagrid trotting it up the Grand Staircase. There had to be another more secretive way to do it? Another path. Between classes, Hadrian took breaks in the lavatory longer than usual to check the map and try and find a way.

Hadrian grumbled as he sat on the nasty loo floor next to the toilet. Desperate times called for desperate measures after all. He moved and manipulated the map, but he wasn’t seeing anything that could get a cerberus out. He knew that the dungeons weren’t all swallowed by water. But once again, how do you get something so big down moving staircases?

Just how?

He still hadn’t figured out where to hide it too. A baby dragon was easy. A three headed pup who wasn’t actually a pup and could crush half the school?

But so could the Weasley twins.

Maybe he could ask them to cause some serious chaos while he did more chaos to get them out. But how?

“Hadrian, are you okay in here?” asked Blaise almost hesitantly. “You have stomach troubles or something?”

“Er… maybe. Can you leave me a moment-” But then Blaise pushed the door open and made a face.

“On the floor, really, Hadrian? Gross.”

“Shut up.” He folded the map and stood. “I’m trying to think.”

“On the lavatory floor? Where people probably piss and other things.”

Hadrian shrugged. “Just Hogwarts robes, who cares about them? I’m not in my clothes.” He did move out to wash his hands. He’d take care of anything gross later.

“What are you doing?” Blaise asked, leaning against the sink. “Cassius and Marcus are acting like they’re planning something and if they are I know you’re involved.”

“Not here, Blaise,” said Hadrian delicately.

“But why aren’t you telling me?”

“You’ve been busy.”

“Not that busy,” said Blaise. “And you know I’d drop anything to help you.”

“You’re having your fun, Blaise, and I’m having mine.” Hadrian kissed his cheek with a light peck. “I’m not at your level of fun yet.”

“You could be,” Blaise purred, leaning closer.

“I will be there when I get there,” he told Blaise. “Besides, it’s best if everyone is innocent. I’m a 'Puff, whatever happens I can go more unnoticed.” Although, now that Dumbledore had taken notice of him, he was wondering about that. “Dad did tell me not to grow up too fast because once you do that’s all you are, grown up. You can never go back.”

Blaise rolled his eyes goodnaturedly. “Ravenclaws,” he muttered. “I guess I get it. I have been a bit too much these past few months. I’m feeling things even stronger than when I was younger. It’s hard to control.”

“And that’s why I left you to your fun. Besides, if you really want to help me, how about baby-sitting for me tonight?”

“Baby-sitting?” Blaise asked, arching a brow. “What? Do I have to baby-sit Marcus and Cassius or something? I know they are off limits. You'd never forgive me if I went there.”

“Went where?”

Blaise shook his head. “Nothing. Baby-sitting?”

“My baby dragon.”

Blaise froze and stared without blinking at Hadrian. Hadrian grinned and shifted to look at him better. He loved the expressions Blaise could pull off. “Huh?”

“I have a baby dragon. It’s sleeping in Cass’ trunk but we’ll be away tonight and Adrian uses silencers. I need a baby-sitter.”

“A dragon?” He breathed, and then he looked around him and back at Hadrian. “Shit, I’ve missed everything!”

“Don’t be mad.”

“I kinda am. I’m the one who went with you through those caves around old Feldcroft. I’m the one who was alway with you and I’ve blown it. You have a baby dragon, the one that the groundskeeper was rumored to have?”

“She’s beautiful. You want to see her?”

Blaise nodded. “Fuck yes!”

Hadrian wrapped his arms around Blaise and leaned into him. He had to raise up on his toes a bit to meet him. “Kiss me.”

Blaise grinned and tilted his head and pressed a soft kiss to Hadrian’s lips. It’d been a while. Hadrian enjoyed the flare of Dark magic that always happened when he was kissed by a Zabini. “I’ve missed you. Your kiss is much better than Shane.” Blaise licked his lips, as if chasing the taste of the Dark magic.

“Is that his name?”

“Doesn’t matter.”

“I think you’d be insulted if I didn’t kiss better than some boy you’ve picked up, even if he is a seventh year. You taught me.”

Blaise laughed and squeezed Hadrian. “I knew you were the smart one.”

“Let’s go see my dragon, and I still have some serious thinking to do. Tick-tock goes the grandfather clock!” Hadrian pulled back and Blaise huffed. He looked annoyed. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” said Blaise. “Just having a rough time… you kissing me like that.” He turned away briefly. Hadrian was confused but Blaise shook his head. “Come on, I need to see this dragon.”

Dragon first, stone second, cerberus third.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty

“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.”

― Eleanor Roosevelt

“My back is fucking killing me.”

“If you weren’t so damn tall we’d all fit without our feet showing,” Cassius hissed back.

Hadrian was between the two giants snug as a bug under the invisibility cloak. It was after curfew and they were walking the halls. Hadrian had mapped a route that had no one in it. He’d overheard earlier in the library that the Gryffindors were planning to go tomorrow. Longbottom had mentioned that Hagrid gave him a hand carved flute that he needed to practice with first.

“How is it we’ve bypassed everything, including ghosts?” Marcus asked, being as quiet as he could, which still wasn’t the most quiet.

Hadrian liked keeping some secrets from his boys. It made life more interesting. “It’s clear because of the Gryffindors,” he said instead. “Dumbledore wants them to ‘steal’ it.”

“Makes sense.”

Score another lie! He was getting good at that fast.

He led them to Ravenclaw and along the corridor before they stepped into the more narrow one. “How did they get him through here? How?”

“Do what?” Cassius asked him. “And - why again did I have to bring my harmonica?”

“Good question, why?” Marcus asked. Hadrian felt that the coast was clear and he drew the silver cloak off them. Marcus groaned and moved from side to side. His back popped. “Fuck me!” Hadrian folded the cloak. Cassius took it for him and put it in his pocket.

“Marcus, Cass, and Blaise love me to pieces, but they’re not going to love you one single bit.” He was being stared at and grinned. “My only advice when we open this door,” he brushed his hand along it, “is keep your back to the wall, especially you, Marcus.”

“What the fuck?” It was all Cassius could say. Marcus decided not to add anything because that’s all that needed to be said.

“Alohamora,” he whispered, making the door snick. He stepped in first and smiled when he saw the three heads rising.

“Shit…”

“Fuck…”

“Hi boys!” Hadrian chirped, skipping toward them.

“No!” They were too late, Hadrian reached up as the first head came down and nuzzled him. A long gooey tongue flicked out to lick him.

“Haha, Marcus that tickles! You silly thing.” He scratched hard and then moved to Cass who was more gentle than Marcus. He let out a whine as Hadrian kissed him on his big old wet nose and finally Blaise. “You being nice to Cass? I won’t have you being mean now. Don’t you worry you’ll be free from here soon enough. I promise. No chain will keep you locked away.”

“Hadrian…!” Cassius had a faint tone when Hadrian turned. Cassius looked very white. Marcus was shaking his head.

“I didn’t know what to name them,” said Hadrian, thinking they were upset over that. “You guys were the first ones I thought about. Better than ‘Fluffy’, who names these gorgeous creatures, Fluffy? Such a Muggle name! Then again, he did name a dragon ‘Norbert’.”

Cassius started to laugh until he was giggling. He literally slid down the wall like his legs had been about to give out on them. He continued to laugh, hugging his knees to his chest.

“I think you broke him, baby. Good going,” said Marcus.

“Cass? Are you okay?”

Cassius shook his head. “Fine…”

“You’re really not. You can stay behind if you like.”

“Fuck that… bloody hell, just give me a minute, sweetheart. Do you know what you do to a man when you suddenly surprise him over and over and over again? Bloody hell it’s a cerberus!”

“Oh… I’m sorry?”

“Sorry, he says. You have no idea the power you hold, do you?”

“Not really,” said Hadrian. “I know I have some power. I’ve been taught by everyone from an early age like all Pureblood children and I’ve always been fascinated with creatures and caring for them. Just like you. While I know I don’t have all the answers, I’ve been testing things a lot this year. Like, I’m not good alone. I know that. I thought I would like being alone for the first time. Able to test myself without worrying if I was holding anyone back or not advancing as expected, which is another reason why I didn’t tell you until recently. But being alone… it’s not me. I don’t like waking up without someone around. I’m weaker alone, that I’ve learned. Maybe that’s why I am a Hufflepuff? Cause I need you all to make me better.”

“You had to say that with a three headed beast guarding your cute arse?” Marcus growled at him.

“Sorry?”

Cassius smiled, and seemed to slightly recover. “He is always sorry.” He looked at the creatures that were sniffing toward them and then they growled before nuzzling Hadrian, all three of them. “They are amazing… how did they get them into the school?”

“I don’t know, but I have to get them out. Dumbledore’s going to kill them.”

“But wouldn’t that be a betrayal to the groundskeeper?” asked Marcus.

“He’s not going to know about it.”

“That is a shame. It is a majestic creature,” Cassius recovered and slid up from the wall. “How-?”

“Just came down here once the enchantments broke. I found out after the troll the enchantments were torn down. Dumbledore didn’t put them there, Professor McGonagall did. She has no idea what Dumbledore is doing.”

“Right, she’s a real teacher,” said Cassius. “Okay, so my harmonica?”

“Get them to sleep. You know that lullaby you play sometimes?”

“Which one?”

“You Are My Sunshine? I think it is called that.”

“First one I learned,” said Cassius, pulling out the small silver instrument. Hadrian stroked his dogs who kept going back and forth between happy and annoyed at the extra people.

Cassius made sure the lip of the harmonica was clean and he brought it to his mouth, hand covering the back and he began to play. He started slow at first, his mouth moving seamlessly along the harmonica. His hand made different motions, up and down sometimes to the side. It was beautiful and hypnotic.

Hadrian felt the drooping of the beasts as they all three whined behind him. Cerberus Cassius was first to let out a snort and began to lower his head followed by the other two heads. At the same time, Hadrian moved around them to the trap door. He beckoned the two of them and they inched closer to him all the while Cassius playing the chords to the song without stopping. His melodic tang of the harmonica trailed through the room.

Hadrian pulled the trap door up and then he cast a spell. “Incendio!” A jet of flames fell down through the door to the next floor. He did it again to be sure. Then Hadrian pointed towards his shoes and cast a Levioso on them before he jumped, causing both boys to flinch. Marcus immediately went after him. Cassius paused for one second to stop playing and followed right through.

Both of them fell through without a cushion for themselves, but Hadrian was ready for them. ”Levioso!” He aimed for their clothes as the two boys free-fell. Before they could hit the ground he released the spell and sent another jet of flames toward the regrowing plant. Marcus tucked and rolled gently across the floor. Cassius groaned as he staggered, his robes coming down around him from Hadrian’s spell. Hadrian flicked his wand up and closed the trap door back with a snap before the Devil’s Snare could start to cover it and try to get out.

“Fuck, that was a long way down,” said Marcus, looking up at the black tendrils.

“Devil’s Snare,” said Cassius, shaking his legs. “Glad Lord Pucey never kept any around and only showed us in books. Creepy plant. I can see why we jumped now. How did you land on your feet?”

“Like the twins said, I’m a little honey badger,” Hadrian chirped, whirling around and heading down the darkened hallway. Both boys raced after him as he giggled.

“Not funny,” Cassius sulked.

“I thought it was.”

“You would. I can’t wait to wring their necks next year,” Marcus grunted.

Marcus was curious about the key room. Cassius circled around. “Looks like Professor Flitwick’s work. Can you see which it is? They all look the same to me.”

“That one!” Hadrian pointed at the one key they needed.

“I’ll get it,” Marcus grunted. It didn’t take long to fly up with the broom to snatch it. “I’m not a Seeker, but I don’t suck either.”

“You’d be so damn slow,” Cassius laughed at the idea.

“I hope Draco is up to snuff.”

“I’ll make sure he is and here is Marcus’ speciality,” Hadrian said cheerfully.

The boys stepped into the next room. Hadrian entered backwards, wanting to see their expressions when they saw the giant, life sized set. Marcus whistled when he saw it.

“You can’t sneak around it?” Cassius asked.

“I tried.” He then had a thought. “Marcus, how far do you think we fell? I thought we’re likely on the second floor.”

“First for sure,” answered Marcus walking along the edge of the board and examining the pieces.

“How big do you think that hole is?” Hadrian asked. “From the trap door?”

“You want to squeeze them through it? I guess they could eat the Devil’s Snare…” said Cassius. “I mean if they went one head at a time… maybe? It’s about the size of two normal people, maybe three. But if you bust the ground up you can always fix it. Besides, we’ve been going down a slope since we dropped in. It’s gradual, but I can feel it.”

“So, if I take them straight down I can go through the dungeons?”

“We are in the dungeons now or an ante-chamber that leads to the dungeons,” said Marcus. “This used to be a dueling hall.”

“How can you tell that?” asked Cassius.

“My father told me that everything stayed the same for the first few years after the Headmaster took over. Probably because he didn’t have as much power or sway. Every year they would have dueling competitions and they were hosted here because of the size.”

“So, they got in through here likely? Probably Headmaster’s magic, but we aren’t at that level.”

“Yet,” Cassius muttered.

Hadrian nudged him. “Okay, so what should we do here? I know we have to play.”

“Yes, I think we have to take the place of various pieces across the board.”

“Can’t we do it and Hadrian just watches?”

“I don’t know, maybe. But we might need three pieces to move freely. We can take up the attackers and Hadrian could take the place of the king. He’ll be protected by me and the pawns.”

“I’ll be queen I guess,” said Cassius.

Marcus smirked. “Sure, if that’s what swings you.”

“You know it doesn’t,” Cassius scoffed.

Hadrian wondered what he meant by that. Marcus nodded as he came to a conclusion. “Guess I’ll do the knight.” He looked eager to get started, almost as excited as if this were Quidditch. “I can see the strategy behind this clearly.”

“Those Gryffindors could never do this puzzle,” said Cassius.

“Not entirely,” said Hadrian, going to his position as the king moved out of the way. Hadrian noted that the pieces that they replaced were blocking their exit. “Fred and George let me know that despite all of Ronald’s stupidity, he’s a good chess player.”

“Not to mention there could be a cheat in here somewhere,” Cassius added. “To make it easier.”

“We are not cheating.” Marcus called out the first move on the board without hesitation. Cassius moved to where he was ordered to. Marcus was moving in a diagonal. “You can cheat in a game, but chess isn’t about a game. Not really.”

Hadrian watched them, he watched the pawns get taken out by Cassius, Marcus, or the actual pieces. Marcus skillfully managed to avoid several traps but he had to do a backtrack to keep himself from getting reamed by the other queen that was moving flawlessly.

Marcus stopped to think for a moment and then he called Cassius to a square. Hadrian had no idea what they were doing but he was impressed with Marcus because he kept going and evaded every move the board tried to throw at him.

He got Cass in position to reach the other queen and he took it out with a simple Bombarda. Hadrian was going to have to learn that spell. It was much better than Incendio. Finally, Marcus checked the other’s king causing its sword to drop.

“Not bad, sixteen moves.” Cassius clapped while Marcus smirked.

Hadrian heard the door unlock and the sound of a rising gate, like one of the gates in the dungeons, echoed in the room. Marcus and Cassius were right. He could probably squeeze the cerebus through. If he could just get them outside all the better.

“Eew. I can already smell it,” said Cassius in disgust.

“A troll.”

“At least we know it’s there this time,” said Hadrian. “It’s not a surprise attack.”

“And it doesn’t know we’re coming… you should let us handle it.”

“Don’t be silly. I won’t get in the way, but like I said this is a test, a trial. I am not going to let you do all the work.” He swept forward making Cassius and Marcus sigh. “You can’t hold me back forever.”

“We can try.”

“We could surround it. Hadrian, what is your strongest spell?”

“Probably Glacias and Diffindo combo,” said Hadrian, feeling embarrassed.

“You should learn to do Confringo, it’s much stronger,” said Cassius.

“Maybe next year I’ll get to it. I have a lot of spells and not that much time.”

“If we all do the same it should in theory be three times as strong,” said Marcus. “We’ll do ice and cutting repeatedly.”

“Sounds good to me.”

Hadrian knew he couldn’t count on Ancient Magic again, and with the plan the troll really wasn’t that big of a deal. It was still nasty and stunk. It shook the ground and broke through their ice, but Hadrian kept a steady stream of ice so that the boys could use their more powerful cutting curses. Hadrian’s first job was to get rid of its club.

Marcus only had to dodge once and soon it was crashing to the ground. It was actually dead considering Cassius’ last spell combined with Marcus’ had nearly tore its throat out.

“Now I see why you wanted to do this. I think that’s the most I’ve learned all year in Defense in this school.” Cassius took a deep breath.

They were slightly surprised that there wasn’t more. With the troll down they had an easy time walking to the room exit, a creaky iron door. Cassius checked for monitoring charms and he disabled one before stepping through.

“Looks like something should have been here too.”

“Maybe Potions? I know Longbottom is terrible at it and so is Weasley. Granger would be decent at it but she’s only one person.”

They crossed the small room and found themselves in another room that had a fleet of steps going down into the center. A glow was surrounding the ancient mirror that he’d spotted last night.

“A mirror?”

“It’s old,” said Hadrian. “Ancient Magic. I can feel it.”

“I feel something… not sure what,” said Cassius. “Be careful, there’s probably traps on or around it.”

“Or in it if it’s magical.”

“I don’t think so. Professor Dumbledore couldn’t really charm the mirror. He had to have Snape help him drag it down.”

“So, what? Do we break it?” Marcus asked.

As they grew closer, Hadrian saw the words written over top in an arc. “I show not your face but your heart’s desire,” he read. Below that was its title: Mirror of Erised. “Mirror of Desire.”

“What does that mean?” Cassius asked.

“Step away a second.”

Both boys stepped away from him and Hadrian looked into the mirror, but he didn’t see anything. He stepped closer to it and felt the tingle along his fingers. “My desire, what do I desire?” But there was nothing. “Do I not desire anything? Cass, can you try it?”

“Why not.”

Hadrian moved to the side out of the Mirror’s line of sight and Cassius stepped forward and looked into the mirror. “What do you desire?”

Cassius blinked and then his eyes went a bit wide. Was Hadrian seeing things or did a blush crawl across his face. “Erm… what? How is that-” He looked at Hadrian and then behind him. “What kind of trick is that?!” he asked severely. His eyes went wide.

“What are you seeing?” Marcus asked.

Cassius shook his head. “No. I am not telling.” He moved quickly away from it. His face looked hot and he turned away, not meeting either Marcus or Hadrian’s gaze. “You do it, Marcus. Tell me what you see,” he had taken a shuddering breath.

Marcus’ eyes narrowed. Hadrian noticed Cassius was adjusting his robes. Marcus walked cautiously in front of the mirror and then he went still. He, like Cassius, looked startled at what he was seeing. He too looked behind him. “Huh… it shows what I want. What I want more than anything.”

“What did you see, Hadrian?” asked Cassius softly.

“I think I have everything I want so it doesn’t work for me.”

“What do you mean?” Marcus asked.

“What do I want? I have you guys. I have Blaise. I have friends. I have my dad. As long as you are here I have what I want. No material possession is important enough to truly desire it. At least for me.”

“I imagine people can go mad looking in that thing,” said Cassius, shaking his head. “I’m not sure I like it knowing what my desires are. I like to keep some things to myself.”

“At least for a few more years,” said Marcus.

“Agreed.”

“So, if it shows our desires - deepest desires - what does this have to do with the stone? Normal spells can’t be used on this mirror. I heard that directly.”

“It means that some people will never be able to get what they truly want.” He looked sad at that. Hadrian didn’t like his pretty eyes being sad.

Hadrian said not a word and moved to stand in front of it. His robes rippled around him. He looked at his own reflection. “What do I want with gold? I don’t need it. I have more than enough and I’m not greedy. Why would I need an Elixir of Life and endless days of immortality? If there is no one there with me to share that with? What would I be or do without my friends and family? I love them all, there is nothing else I ever need. I don’t want to live forever and watch everyone die. I don’t care about the stone. What I want is for him not to have it.”

His reflection began to move independently. It was smirking back at him and he raised up a fist sized rock that was glimmered blood red. He then stuck it into his Hufflepuff pocket robes. Hadrian reached into his own pockets and withdrew the stone, making both teens stare at him.

“Couldn’t have been that easy,” said Cassius.

“It had to be. Normal magic wouldn’t work.” He’d love to steal the mirror too. But he couldn’t drag a big old mirror through Hogwarts. It was gorgeous though. He reached out and touched it, feeling the glimmers of magic touch him back. It was then that he saw something in the mirror as the spark spread through him. Hadrian was standing there in the middle as an older man with everyone surrounding him. Cassius and Marcus were standing confidently at either side of him. Blaise stood close too - gorgeous and perfect. Draco, hair finally free of gel, smirked at him from beside Theo and slightly behind Blaise. As he shifted from one foot to another, his eyes flicked over Adrian, Graham, and Terry who were behind Marcus. Vaguely, further behind his friends, he could make out their families and a few others. His dad and Rodolphus were off on one side in the foreground, smiling and staring at him with love and pride.

So, he did have a desire. But it wasn’t unobtainable. He smiled at it.

“We ready to go?” asked Marcus.

“How do we get out of here?” Cassius wondered, “and you still haven’t explained how you’re getting a cerberus out safely.”

But, Hadrian already had an answer. At least most of it. Everything they could want was obtainable. Every desire, so long as you worked for it and kept those who meant the world to you close enough. If you mistreated them then you would forsake them and yourself. Everything you could want will no longer be an option.

Marcus found a door. “I know where this leads.”

“Hold on.” Hadrian shoved his hands into his pockets and pulled out the map. He tapped it open while saying the words quietly, no need to give up all of his secrets yet, and quickly checked. He noted the Headmaster was moving along a corridor and then back up again. Seventh floor. Interesting. But that wasn’t important until he vanished off the map. He was near the Astronomy Wing, seventh floor and vanished? You couldn’t apparate inside the school. That was written in multiple editions of A History of Hogwarts, including ones printed before Dumbledore was even a student. Theo had found an old copy a few years ago and they all had looked through it to see what changes had been made.

“What is it?” Cassius came over to look over his shoulder. “Whoa!”

“What?” asked Marcus. He came over to look too and his mouth dropped open. “What the-? That’s a map.”

“Showing everyone in Hogwarts and where they are,” said Cassius. “Sweetheart, how did you get this?”

“It was a gift,” said Hadrian. “I’ve been using it for a bit now.”

“You didn’t tell us you had something like this,” said Marcus.

“I wanted to surprise you. Gotta keep you boys guessing or I’ll bore you.”

Cassius snorted. He wrapped his arm around Hadrian, drawing him in. “You can’t bore us, sweetheart. Not possible.”

“Cerberus and dragons. Stones that should be myths, living chess… I think boredom would actually be a form of excitement with you around,” said Marcus dryly.

Hadrian beamed. “Glad you think so. Looks like we’re right between Hufflepuff and Slytherin, on the other side of the dungeon.” He reached into Cassius’ pocket and pulled out his Invisibility Cloak, making Marcus groan.

“My back…”

“I’ll massage it for you,” said Hadrian, making Marcus perk up.

“Really?”

“Of course!”

“Cheat,” Cassius hissed at the chuckling teen, making Hadrian wonder what he meant by that.

It was a straight shot to Slytherin after a few simple turns. Once in the dungeons there was no need to have the cloak anymore and so he removed it from them. He ran his fingers along the walls. “I need to do one more thing before I go to bed.”

“What are you going to do with the stone?” asked Cassius softly.

“Send it to my dad? I should get it away from Hogwarts, but that’s not my immediate thought.”

“Where are we heading now?” Marcus asked. “I’m kind of tired, but-”

“It’s about the cerberus. I can get it out of the castle of that I’m sure of, what I need is to get him to Feldcroft.”

“How are you going to do that?” asked Cassius.

“Ask.”

“Ask?”

Hadrian nodded. “Yes. I’ll go see if I can find him.” He smiled and then swooped the cloak over his body causing Marcus and Cassius to let out a shout. “Let Blaise know he’s relieved from baby-sitting duties!”

“Hadrian!”

He rushed off, aware of the shouts for him. Hadrian couldn’t help but giggle, they were so cute when they were trying real hard not to be.

Hadrian hadn’t been sure if the first part would work. It was a shot in the dark really. But he knew that the second part - yeah that was going to be fun and he knew a set of twins that just loved to have fun. Come to find out some creatures or beings had abilities far beyond Hadrian could have imagined.

Who knew?

Morning dawned bright and early, Marcus was kind of a groggy monster. Neither he nor Cass had gone to bed until Hadrian returned an hour after them with a shit-eating grin, his eyes twinkling, and refusing to tell them where he’d been.

He spoke to the twins before classes. He had waited for them in the shadows of Gryffindor Tower. When they passed by he reached out, grabbed them both, and pulled them back.

“Well, if it isn’t the little honey badger coming to us!” Fred cheered, looping an arm around Hadrian.

George snuggled up on the other side. “Looks like the little honey badger holds no ill will toward us over Warrington’s pretty face.”

Hadrian rolled his eyes. “Boys will be boys.”

“Yes, they will.”

“Some can be very pretty boys.” George pushed up against Hadrian, making him press closer to Fred. “So, what can we do for you this bright and beautiful May morning?”

Fred’s nose tickled at his hair making him smile. “I need chaos. I need you boys to cause so much chaos somewhere far far away from the dungeons and the third floor’s right hand side.”

Blue eyes shined at him. “Oh? What are you planning, you sweet little honey badger?” Fred asked, tickling the ends of his hair. It’d grown about an inch or so now and the wave was starting to truly show.

“I’m planning on my own chaos but it’s going to be noisy. Three heads kind of noisy. So, I need you boys to cause a stir. A stir that draws everyone and I mean everyone.”

“You mean an explosion or several.”

“We can do that. We love going out with a bang,” said George nodding. “When?”

If the Gryffindors went down tonight like he overheard them planning to do, then he could take advantage of their progress. He would hate to be too late. What if once they got in there the Headmaster decides to dispose of his puppies while they’re working on the other puzzles? Hadrian couldn’t have that. He’d probably want to get them out of the school before the Board of Governors had time to descend. Knowing those Gryffindors, a big to-do will be started. Better to blow past them then risk a domino effect that he couldn’t control. What were four children? Or he could do it earlier and prevent the Gryffindors from ever getting near it. Stop them before they started. It was a toss up, and he knew Dumbledore would sit back and watch and wait for a while. So would all the teachers. But he might panic if something bigger and badder was going on elsewhere. So many paths, but which to take?

“Tonight, exactly at curfew.”

Their eyes widened. “Such short notice!” Fred gasped.

“I’ll supply anything you need,” said Hadrian. “It has to be tonight, I’m not sure what will happen in the morning.”

“We’re not complaining,” said George. “It’s a challenge for sure, but we can cause chaos and mayhem anytime and anywhere.”

“But if you really do want to go big - we might need some supplies,” said Fred, fingers tapping along Hadrian’s back as he thought.

“You have it.” Hadrian shoved a velvet sack of gold into their hands. “Keep the rest in case you get expelled.”

Both grinned at him. “They have to find us to expel us.”

“But we have a feeling they are going to be way too busy.”

“More things on their minds.”

“We can do most with nothing, but we can do all with everything,” finished Fred.

Hadrian giggled. “Good, and now I have to go to class and be a good boy.” Both boys kissed him on the cheek before they casually rejoined the wave of Gryffindors leaving the Tower. Once the hall had emptied of students, Hadrian took his leave.

“Be on the lookout tonight, something spectacular is going to happen,” Hadrian whispered to the Slytherins and one Ravenclaw that morning in History of Magic.

He drew everyone’s attention as he nestled himself on Blaise’s lap. Hadrian ignored the glare from the seventh year Slytherin Blaise had abandoned for the class. Hadrian has missed cuddling up to Blaise whenever they felt like it the last few months with both of them busy with distractions. After their chat in the lavatory yesterday it seems Blaise was in agreement and had quickly claimed Hadrian at the start of History. Hadrian swung his arm around the boy’s head and ignored the glances sent to him by Marcus and Cassius while the others snickered.

“What does that mean?” asked Draco.

Theo even closed his book. “What have you gotten into now, Hadrian?”

“Nothing yet,” said Hadrian sweetly.

“I doubt that,” said Adrian.

Graham couldn’t resist. “What’s going to happen?”

“Oh, I don’t want to spoil anything. A lot to do, so little time, tick-tock goes the grandfather clock.”

“Where are the twins?” Marcus asked suddenly, noting that only the Muggleborn was there.

“Twins?” asked Draco, confused.

Blaise was stroking Hadrian’s sides. Cassius eyed him suspiciously and then he hissed. “Shit!”

“Fuck…” When Cassius looked at Marcus, the boy couldn’t help but grin. “Well, least something useful comes of it.”

“Shit, shit… he’s really doing it.”

“What?” Terry asked.

“Nothing… you’re really going through with it?” he asked Hadrian.

“Of course, what do you take me for Cass? A quitter? I don’t think so.”

“Where can we be to get front row seats?” asked Marcus.

“It depends on which show you want to watch. You have multiple options.”

“Your show.”

“It’s all mine, Cass.”

“A reminder to the big boys here that he is only eleven years old and he has multiple shows tonight that are making even you two twitch. Can you imagine his shows in about six more years?” Blaise mocked.

Cassius and Marcus made a small shudder and Blaise cackled at them. Everyone else was just confused.

“Not to mention the theft and acquisition of a certain creature - at eleven,” he reiterated Hadrian’s age.

“Fuck you, Zabini,” Marcus grunted slouching back.

“Sorry, you’re off limits big boy.”

Marcus shot him a look and Cassius shook his head. “Maybe one day we’ll experience the excitement of boredom. Until then…”

“You have a choice of the grounds or somewhere else tonight. Somewhere far away from the other chaos,” Hadrian supplied genially.

“So we have options? Oh, I can’t wait to see this…”

Hadrian made full use that night of the map and the invisibility cloak. He’d told Slytherins not to be so obvious in their own little campouts. Theo had declined to join in on the show and instead remained dutifully in Ravenclaw Tower.

He dressed in nearly all black except for the cloak that had his thunderbird on it, and he went to camp out in the room beside the cerberus. He decided he would wait for the action to start. He noted that the Gryffindors were still in their common room, and the Headmaster was in his office with Snape. Everyone else seemed busy with something. No one showed that they had any idea he’d taken the stone the night before.

At exactly 9:01 on the dot, according to Hadrian’s watch, the entirety of Hogwarts began to rumble. It started lightly at first. Just a vibration that could make tea cups rattle, but then it grew and grew like the pulse in his throat.

“BANG!” It didn’t stop at one, multiple bangs echoed in various locations. Hadrian grinned and got ready to move.

“What the bloody hell was that?!” Hadrian froze beneath his cloak briefly when he saw the Gryffindors standing at the end of the third floor corridor. Another bang and something that felt like an earthquake or a horde of Trolls began to shake and vibrate the entirety of the school.

“Is someone attacking? Trying to get the stone? That letter was right!” Granger seized Longbottom to draw him closer to the wall. Weasley and Smith followed him.

“M-maybe this isn’t a good idea. We should go see the Headmaster…He’ll be able to protect it.”

Smith was looking around the corner. “Oh good God, look at that! What is that?!”

“What’s what?”

Hadrian was almost curious enough to go see what the Gryffindors were seeing.

“On the grand staircase. It looks like a firework of flames! It’s rocketing all around the tower!”

Hadrian took this time to push through the chamber to the happy yips and whines of the three headed Pups. “Are you guys ready?” All of them came down to lick at him. Hadrian wrinkled his nose as he scratched each of them. “You need to listen to me now- hey - no come on! That tickles…” he complained. “No distractions. Listen!” He seized cerberus Marcus on either side of his great big jowls. “Are you listening to me?” He looked into his eyes. “Tonight, I am setting you free. I know you have some intelligence, probably a lot more than anyone can imagine. I need you to listen to me. I’m freeing you.” A puff of breath flared from their nostrils as Cass came down on him and nuzzled him. “Yes, that’s right. You are going to be free tonight. No more chains and no more trapped corridors. I have a friend waiting for you. He’s going to take you somewhere safe and you can be free. Are you ready? Do you like Devil's Snare? Because you’re going to have to eat it.”

Hadrian brought his wand down on the chain embedded into the floor. He couldn’t use Alohomora, there was no lock. Diffindo was too weak. So, instead he froze the chain links as more rumbles and the sound of fireworks went off above them causing the boys to whine and growl. He then heated the links, froze them again, and finally he used Diffindo so that it snapped apart.

The cerberus let out a grateful howl all at the same time. “Yes, yes. Be quiet you three!” he chided. “Now, for this.” He pulled open the trap door. “Is this how you came in? I have to get you guys down there. Cass said I should blow a hole…” A few tendrils of the devil’s plant were climbing up the wall toward the trap door but because of the light in the room it shied back.

“That’s it!” Hadrian said, stepping back. “Back up, boys!” He was stunned when they listened to him. The large capricious three heads waddled back as far as they could. He drew up on his magic, remembering Cass’ wand movements. “Bombarda!”

An explosion of the trapdoor and floor threw pieces of stone and rubble into the air. He could hear the screeching and flailing from deep below and saw that the light from the room had spread down into the monstrous Devil’s Snare causing some of its tendrils to wilt and smolder.

Hadrian then turned and grimaced when all three licked him like they understood him. “I need to get on one of you. I have to ride you down and guide you. Can you trust me to do that?” He didn’t know if they would understand him, but cerberus Marcus nuzzled him, his breaths stinky and hot on Hadrian’s face.

He let out a sudden slightly fearful gasp when Marcus’ jowls opened and his teeth wrapped around him almost gently. Marcus lifted him up gently like he was one of their pups or something. He was planted on the lowered head of Cass.

“Ulgh…” He had drool all over him, and those teeth had been a bit too close to his skin for comfort. “O-okay,” he said shakily. “Thanks Marcus! Glad you didn’t eat me.” He wondered just how much they truly understood what was going on? He really needed to do more research into the magic and intelligence of these guys. He settled just behind the neck of the middle. “Okay. Let’s go!”

Hadrian was almost jerked off and he had to hold tight as the cerberus moved. His fingers dug into the fur before him to clench tight as the dog shot down straight through the floors and the flailing Devil’s Snare.

Hadrian winced when one of the vines was able to hit him, causing a sting to vibrate through his body. “Ouch…” Blaise quickly bit the vine in retaliation.

In theory the chess set should be disabled as the dog scampered through the halls. Just barely fitting through doorways. All of them growled and snapped at the flying keys, Hadrian had a hard time staying on as all three heads went for different keys. Before Hadrian could try and open the door they barrelled right through it with a crash. He had to duck for both protection from flying wood but also to fit with all of his body parts intact. The cerberus was really tall.

“Well, that’s one way. Good boys! Keep going!” He continued to lean down, flattening himself along the neck under him. He was no bigger than a flea compared to these dog, dogs? Should he call them one or more? He was still deciding that.

He was pleased when he spotted over Cass’ large ears that the door and gate in the chess room was still open from last night. The far gate started to close when they reached the board but they didn’t care about the chess set and barreled right through the pieces that were reformed and waiting for the next player. A queen ended up in Blaise’s mouth when it tried to bar their way briefly. Hadrian was amazed when the cerberus sped up and slipped through the gate opening before it could get too small. It clanged shut behind them.

The troll was still dead and the sniffing creatures growled at it. “Go on! You don’t need to eat a troll.” This was proof that no one had been down there since they left last night. Headmaster Dumbledore must have been so sure of himself. Hadrian resisted cackling like Blaise did. “Go, go!” He urged. Only half the door to the final room was taken out and they were streaking down the stairs barrelling right toward the glowing mirror. “Around. Go around, not through it! Let’s not add seven years of shit luck!” But the dogs could sense freedom.

A spread of Ancient Magic began to roll through the room and Hadrian cried out as the pressure grew stronger. He barely had time to look up to see that the wrought mirror was growing and had turned a deep blue almost black. He thought he saw grass through its reflection and a dark sky. It grew bigger and bigger, larger and larger and before Hadrian could command them to stop, the cerberus flew through it like a portal engulfing them within the mirror.

A spill of cool outside air rushed him and mixed with his sweat, causing Hadrian to shiver when magic buried itself into him. When his eyes adjusted to the change in light he saw the grounds of Hogwarts laid out before him. He looked around and found himself by odd stones. Theo had noticed them first on the second day after they arrived at Hogwarts back in September. In various locations around the grounds were tall protruding stones ringed around a stone plate with an odd flower shape in the center. Looking back at them briefly, he saw that one of the stones was reflecting the mirror room in Hogwarts.

“Okay, that worked better than I expected! Good boy!” He reached down and rubbed Blaise’s nose that was pointed towards him, as if waiting for the praise. It seemed there were shortcuts that made absolutely no sense or if they did all that sense was lost long long ago.

“Stop!” A thunder of magic tingled Hadrian’s small body and the creature stopped as fast as it could run and this had the unfortunate consequence of Hadrian losing grip and flying over their heads.

“Ack!” But instead of landing hard, breaking bones and busting his head open, strong hot arms caught him bridal style. All the air had left his lungs causing him to wheeze as his eyes went cross with disorientation.

“Good evening, child of the darkest stars,” his voice was ever so close to his face. He could feel the breaths along his cheek.

Hadrian’s eyes blurred briefly and then he let out a weak smile. “Magnus… hi!” He was now feeling what Cassius might have been feeling when he saw them for the first time. A little bit dazed, a little bit confused, and feeling like jelly all the way through.

“I knew to wait for you here, the stars never lie. You made it and caused some mayhem on the way.” He raised his handsome face to Hogwarts herself and Hadrian shifted to look.

Part of the Astronomy Tower in the distance had been taken out and he could see flames. “Oh Merlin… I’m so sorry, Hogwarts…” He breathed. He saw something scampering along windows, but couldn’t quite pinpoint what it was.

“I believe she can forgive you. You did it selflessly after all. What grand beasts they are.”

Hadrian looked at the dogs who were sitting on their haunches pleased with themselves. “Good boys!” He told them and he cringed when they barked loudly, all three. “Ssh! Quiet boys.”

Magnus laughed melodically. “I do not think it matters now. I believe they have more important things to worry about.” He then sat Hadrian gently down on his feet.

He wobbled a bit when Marcus’ snout came down to nudge him in the back affectionately. “We can’t play fetch now boys, just wait until I go home.” He noted a rock was in Cass’ mouth, looking at him expectantly.

“Oh all right!” Cass tossed the rock down and Hadrian, using Levioso, sent it into the air and then he flung it causing them to scamper toward it.

“I believe that is my cue. I shall take it from here.” He stroked Hadrian’s cheek. “I hope to see you soon.”

“You will. The woods of Feldcroft are far bigger and better than the Forbidden Forest.”

Magnus smiled at him and then he was cantering off. He said something in a foreign tongue and the cerberus turned to look at Hadrian before they complied with the call from the centaur. Hadrian was transfixed on the scene that was like something out of a painting or landscape. Magnus’ tail streamed behind him as his strong legs moved him easily around the three headed beast and the hair from his head blew in the cool breeze. He commanded the beasts like it was natural for him to do. It was a gorgeous sight, the stars above him were big and bright with the moon hidden and dark as the magic in the air.

Hadrian made a noise and flopped down onto the ground unceremoniously. He was exhausted. Sweat drenched him from his head down to his toes. Even his boots didn’t keep him safe. He could feel rubble and pebbles in his hair, and it seemed that cerberus’ shed because he was covered in fine dark hairs.

“You don’t see that every day.”

“I’d so let him fuck me… I bet he’s a horse for sure…”

“Blaise!”

“What? I’d be happy to wait a few years for it. It looks like he needs something sturdy and I am, unfortunately, still rather too skinny. Shame.”

Hadrian threw his head back and laughed as he looked over to see all his friends. He turned in time to see Terry shoot a tickling hex at Blaise, causing the boy to fall to the ground in laughter. The rest stood back observing the spectacle, it seems that they couldn’t decide between watching the creatures run off or Blaise. Draco had been hiding behind Adrian and Graham.

“Wh-what the bloody hell was that, Hadrian?!”

Cassius stepped forward and held out his hand. “Need a hand, sweetheart?”

“I think he needs more than that,” Marcus mused. “Boredom does not exist with him around.”

Hadrian was pulled to his feet and Cassius wrapped around him drawing him in. His legs were still wobbly as he kissed the boy on the chin. “I did it.” He smiled.

“You’re mad, Hadrian! Simply mad!” Draco finally came around the two bigger boys. “What do you think you were doing riding on a three headed beast the size of a troll?!”

“Hey, don’t insult my puppies that way,” Hadrian defended.

“Puppies? You called them puppies?” Adrian laughed. “Of course you would. You house a dragon, ride a cerberus, and take down a troll.”

“Not bad for my first year.” Hadrian grinned, and Adrian, Graham, and Terry all face-palmed as Blaise managed to right himself from Terry’s tickling charm. “Can you imagine the second year?” Hadrian gushed.

“NO!”

Chapter Text

“A story has no beginning or end: arbitrarily one chooses that moment of experience from which to look back or from which to look ahead.”

― Graham Greene, The End of the Affair

Nifflers in the Astronomy Tower. Catnip spread in thick green sneezing trails from the Trophy Room all the way to Professor McGonagall’s classroom. Fireworks from the bottom of the Grand Staircase to the very tip-top had kept the portraits awake and even scared many suits of armor and the staircases. But the pièce de résistance had to be the transfigured rabbits. Hundreds upon hundreds of rabbits had lined the corridors that led to Headmaster Dumbledore’s office to the Hospital Wing.

Oh, and then there were the clocks. Hadrian had never seen so many clocks before, they had been set in the dungeons from the Potions classroom to Huffllepuff and Slytherin corridors. Hadrian had said to keep clear of the dungeons, but it made sense that the twins would put something there so that it wasn’t obvious that something was happening down there that night. Clocks going off at the exact same time and causing noise was far more harmless than hundreds of owls swooping through the corridors as the good Headmaster tried to get through the cotton tails and droppings. Fred and George had snickered and said it was a smorgasbord of chaos. Cassius had referenced something about the Alamo, but Hadrian wasn’t sure he heard that properly.

The best of it all? Fred and George had been in a detention with Professor McGonagall when all of this started. No one was claiming responsibility. Fred and George made sure to show outrage when they were the first accused.

“Pu-lease Professor, if we were going to start a night of mayhem and chaos we certainly wouldn’t have used such inferior firecrackers.”

“Or let Peeves have all the fun!”

“Give us some credit.”

“Besides, how would we have afforded all of that?”

“I imagine all those clocks would have cost at least five hundred galleons, maybe more! Do you know what we could do with that many galleons?!”

That was the evidence that got them off, how on earth would they have afforded it. Sometimes, it paid to be raised with no money. It was a logical excuse after all. Some were saying that days after that fiasco bunnies were still cropping up all over the place. Theo confessed that a couple of girls from Ravenclaw had tried to keep a few only for them to vanish after a period of time.

And his cerberus and the stone?

Well, Hadrian didn’t rightly know because everything was quiet on that front and Hadrian had to be a good boy and stay far away from the scene of the crime. Cloak or not. So he wasn’t sure what happened and there weren’t any rumors creeping around. No, the only rumors spreading around the school were about Blaise dropping the seventh year he had been seeing. Apparently there had been a fight between the seventh year and his friend Blaise was seen kissing and Blaise refused to speak to either. Hadrian suspected that the Headmaster, having decided that silence was probably his only friend when it came to that disaster, encouraged students to gossip about relationships. The weekend after the gossip about Blaise, word spread that a Ravenclaw and Gryffindor couple had signed an arranged marriage contract. Young Muggleborns across the houses were very outspoken about the ‘barbaric tradition’. The poor couple found themselves complaining to their Heads of Houses and Board of Governors about constantly being hounded about their decision.

Whenever anybody got close to Hagrid’s hut, he could be heard inside sobbing about his missing Fluffy and Norbert. Even at meals, when he was forced to sit at the head table, he was crying and sniffing.

Hadrian actually felt a little sorry for the bloke. He didn’t have to like someone to feel compassion for them after all. So he had written a small note promising that both were safe and free and would never forget him, then sent it with a school owl. Hadrian blamed the Hufflepuff in him for it. He had respect for Hagrid and his taste. It was too bad he didn’t embrace more of himself and question those he followed so blindly.

Now, however, exams were quickly approaching and everyone was feeling the crunch. The Daily Prophet for days talked on and on and on about the ‘Night of Mayhem’ in Hogwarts and there were rumors that the Ministry and the Board of Governors were looking even harder now at the Headmaster and the school.

He had seen the first year Gryffindors sitting in the library with their heads bowed, whispering furiously with each other. Longbottom looked pretty upset. It seemed someone either told them to be quiet about the stone or they never managed to start the destroyed trials. Fred and George hadn’t heard a peep from any of them. Granger was putting them all to work on studying for exams instead.

Astra was flying around Marcus, Cassius, and Adrian’s room now. Hadrian knew he had to get her out into the world so she could really stretch her wings. She had been trained by then not to shoot out her flames for no reason. She was still about the length of Hadrian’s legs, but her scales were beautiful and the spikes on her head were growing. She couldn’t fly high but she liked to swoop around the room, her gorgeous growing wings elegant and causing a light wind to blow on them. In late May it was quite nice even if they were in the dungeons by the lake. Hadrian had taken some of her scales that shed and placed them in a jar to send to the twins. Who knows what they’d come up with? Adrian mentioned that their dung did amazing things to the plants in the greenhouses. Apparently, that was the only reason he had been ‘cleaning up’ after her. Hadrian and the others certainly did not mind.

One night Draco, the silly spoiled noble, had sauntered in in hopes of demanding Adrian’s Herbology notes. Apparently Terry and Graham had already told him no. He let out a shriek that resembled a bunch of little Muggle girls and flattened his back to the door.

“D-d-dra-dragon!” He pointed at it and Hadrian thought he was exaggerating, but the fear and ashen look on his face had sent all of the boys who had been studying together into laughter.

Blaise was sad he missed it. “Stupid seventh years who can’t understand what ‘fuck off’ and ‘don’t speak to me again’ mean!”

Astra could still fit in Cassius’ trunk and seemed to like it. Good thing the truck could expand inside so that she could nestle up to her hippo. It was no longer a silvery shade. It had burnt edges and so many tears that the magic was fading from it. They could only repair it so much, but she refused to part with it.

Exams dawned and spanned the entire week. Hadrian wasn’t worried about them, but he helped the older boys. Next year was OWLs for Marcus, Cassius, and Adrian and so Hadrian often sat with them or on one of them. He would read over their notes with them and sometimes add his own suggestion. Not that he was smarter than them, but sometimes he would remember something his dad had said about a subject they were studying.

From the looks of the House Hour Glasses of points it looked like Slytherin had won in a deep landslide. Surprisingly, Hufflepuff was second in line whenever the teachers could remember. Gryffindor it seemed had not a single point in their jar.

Huh.

Fred and George later pulled him aside and told him that McGonagall found out about the first years trying to breach the third floor corridor. “Caught Granger, Longbottom, Smith, and Ron red-handed, and she drained every point from Gryffindor. Even refused to entertain Hermione when she tried to show some note about someone breaking in to get it. She challenged Granger to prove that she was smarter than the teachers at the school. It was brilliant. I think she was looking for someone to blame after the catnip incident. Who could have guessed she was really sensitive to it?”

“You don’t sound like you like Smith much,” Hadrian pointed out, noting the slight difference in tone.

“Needs his head shoved into a troll’s arse.”

“Might improve his personality.”

“First time we have ever agreed with our Big Head Prefect brother. Something is not quite right with that one.”

“Can’t figure out what though.”

As June bloomed, so did the last days at Hogwarts. It was cleanup time all around Slytherin. Hadrian had gotten a letter from his dad letting him know that a coach would be waiting for them in the courtyard. Them meaning Cassius, Marcus, and Blaise who were going with him back to Feldcroft. His father had let him know that a centaur had come to the estate. He’d not expected that and had hoped next time Hadrian would warn him. He made no mention of the cerberus, which Hadrian wondered about.

“Draco! You stole my shampoo!” Blaise could be heard shouting in annoyance outside the room in the hallway.

“You don’t need it. You have like a dozen of them! I ran out.”

“You bloody idiot! My shampoo isn’t going to be useful for your kind of hair. It’s deeply hydrating with oils for extra moisturizing of naturally black hair.”

“What if I want extra moisture? Besides, Hadrian doesn’t ask!” he sulked. “You’re not going to miss it.”

“He has naturally black hair! You glue your hair on every morning - did it make you blind? Your hair never changes.”

“Shut up!”

“Fine, consider my hair products you’ve used as your birthday present.”

“What? Blaise - no! You can’t do that.”

“Bite me, Draco.”

Cassius was a bit nervous about taking his trunk loaded with a sleeping dragon down to the Entrance Hall. Marcus offered to carry it, but it did have to be featherlighted this time. Even for him it was a bit of a strain.

It was announced at the feast the night before they were leaving that Slytherin had won not only the Quidditch Cup but also the House Cup with an overwhelming amount of 825 points. Hufflepuff was in second place with 651. Ravenclaw 340, and finally Gryffindor with 0. Granger, Longbottom, Smith, and Weasley were being heatedly glared at by every Gryffindor and Fred and George could be heard fake crying really loudly.

“So proud…”

“He upheld our name…”

“And our honor…!”

“RONNIE, WE ARE SO PROUD!” Both would shout causing the boy to squawk and then try and hide beneath the table. Granger and Smith pulled him back from doing so.

Finally, the morning arrived for them to leave. Hadrian was sitting at the Slytherin table between Draco and Blaise eating a quick breakfast of fruit and toast. Marcus was sitting out in the hall on top of Cassius’ trunk and Cassius was with him to guard all of their trunks since they weren’t taking the train. Hadrian planned to bring them some bacon sandwiches in thanks. He even borrowed Blaise’s expanded thermos so he could put coffee in it and sat aside some strawberries for them to share.

That was when all the Heads of Houses came toward them with envelopes in their hands. Hadrian suspected that it was their exam scores. Snape began to pass them out to the Slytherins.

“Rookwood, I have yours,” he said before Hadrian could get up to see Sprout.

“Oh, great, Professor. Can I get Cassius’ and Marcus’ too? You know how Slytherins are with their things. They’re out watching our trunks.”

Snape took out theirs and Hadrian reached up. For the first time all year his eyes connected to the Professor’s dark black eyes. The man froze, hand in midair.

“Thank you.” He took them and Snape continued to stare at him. “Professor?” He blinked and Snape snapped out of it.

His face was unusually blank as he shuffled down beyond Hadrian without a word. His back was stiff and tense. His fingers slipped on a few envelopes nearly causing them to spill from his hands.

“What did you do?” Blaise whispered into his ear.

“I’ve been good for almost a month,” Hadrian sulked, causing Blaise to snicker. “How could you accuse me of something so hurtful?” He sniffed, making his eyes water.

Blaise shook his head, grinning. “Sorry sorry! Peace offering?” He offered Hadrian some raspberries.

“You know… As much as I love raspberries, the seeds are troublesome, even with magic.”

“Fine, I’ll offer you my first born then.” He sat them aside. Hadrian laughed out loud. “With a look like that I almost feel I must! Unless you want a kiss instead?” That just made Hadrian laugh louder considering Blaise said it loud enough for the scorned seventh year to glare at their group. As if that guy was ever going to last long, he was graduating and would likely never see Blaise again.

Soon, everyone but those graduating, were loading up in the courtyard to leave. Hadrian, Cassius, Marcus, and Blaise stood on the steps as most of the students got into the thestral drawn carriages.

Once they said goodbye to the others and the carriages had departed, their coach came trotting up. Hadrian was surprised to see that they were being pulled by two gorgeous cream abraxans with long flowing white manes. Their white wings were tucked against their backs as they trotted forward. No actual driver. The carriage itself was made up of the Rookwood colors with the coat of arms on the side of the door.

“Your father knows how to show off. He probably did this so you can differentiate it from the school ones.”

“We don’t have abraxan,” said Hadrian, staring in awe as they stopped elegantly in front of them.

Blaise whistled. “Looks like you do now.”

“Gorgeous specimens, Malfoy bred abraxans for sure,” said Cassius.

“Ooh, they are beautiful!” He trotted down and Cassius floated Hadrian’s trunk down to the carriage before doing the same to Blaise’s. He couldn’t quite float both at the same time, yet. Marcus’ floated over next and finally the both of them walked Cassius’ trunk down.

“Oh, hello beautiful!” Hadrian trilled as one of them bent their head down for him to pet. As everyone climbed in, Hadrian was the last giving both all of them his attention and a snuggle.

“Come on, precious!” Blaise leaned out the door. “You can snuggle them later and give them sugar lumps.”

Hadrian beamed and kissed each of them on the nose. When he turned he was surprised to see Headmaster Dumbledore and Snape standing on the top of the stairs to the castle, looking directly at him. He waved at them and after a moment the Headmaster dutifully waved back. Smiling at him. Snape was simply staring.

He accepted Cassius’ hand that reached out when Blaise opened the door for him. He was pulled seamlessly so that he sat on Cassius. Cassius’ trunk was sitting on the floor of the carriage between the seats for good reason while the rest of their luggage was beneath the carriage on a rack. Marcus casually put one foot on the lip of Cassius’ trunk, ignoring Cassius’ glare.

“I guess even the Headmaster is impressed,” said Blaise, eyeing the two from the corner of his eye.

“They do make a statement,” Marcus agreed.

The horses did not need any prompting and simply knew when they were ready to go. They started an elegant walk around the courtyard fountains and then along the rutted path carved into the bedrock for easy transport. It would take about two hours at a good steady trot for them to arrive at Rookwood Castle. About an hour into their journey Hadrian spied the hidden caves, dells, and outcrops that told them they were definitely now on Rookwood land. Hadrian hung out the window to look over the space, wondering if he’d see the cerberus or Magnus’ herd. Marcus kept hold of the back of his robes as if he was going to tumble out.

For all of the concern he had last summer and start of the year, Hadrian thought that his first year at Hogwarts turned out quite nicely. He learned some and gained a few new pets and allies. Hopefully he’d have a quiet summer before he started his second year.

He soon saw the old English style manor. He noticed a set of new stables spread out near the woodlands of the forest and then he saw his dad and Rodolphus waiting for them at the front entrance. He laughed as he flung open the door causing Cassius and Marcus to shout in surprise. Blaise just laughed as he jumped out and landed perfectly.

“Dad!” He ran into his dad’s outstretched arms and he was drawn into the biggest bear hug that even Marcus couldn’t manage. He was lifted off his feet and he kissed the man on his scruffy cheek. His smile grew as Rodolphus reached over to ruffle his hair.

“Sorry we weren’t here for Yule…” He rumbled into Hadrian’s hair.

“You’re here now and that makes it better. I’ve missed you.”

“And I you… we’ve heard many rumors but I would prefer the tale.”

“Oh…” Hadrian drew back just as the horses came to a complete stop and a flustered Cassius and Marcus stepped out. Blaise giggling as he followed behind. “Marcus! Bring the trunk out. I have to show Dad!”

“Now?” asked Marcus, wide-eyed.

“What better time than like the present? I’m tired of being the one stunned by what sweetheart does,” said Cassius.

“Stunned? I doubt there is anything you can surprise me with after that centaur’s arrival. I never imagined a centaur would walk up to our home and knock on the door.” His father’s eyes twinkled. “I really need to learn the story behind that…”

“Nothing else was with him?”

“He said he and a trio of friends were coming to live in Feldcroft. I assumed they had already made their way to where they wanted to go. You never make enemies of a centaur if you can help it.”

Hadrian beamed as Marcus heaved the large trunk out and then sat it a few feet away from them. He was smirking now as Hadrian wriggled down and rushed over to it.

“Are you ready, this will be the only time!”

“Wait!” Blaise ran over to hide behind Hadrian’s dad who arched a brow.

“What does he have in there?” asked Augustus.

“My hair is too pretty to be exposed. Just in case.”

“Hey! I trained her properly.”

“Does not escape the fact that when I was baby-sitting she took off two inches of my braids!” Blaise said seriously.

“That’s not her fault. She’s still a wee bairn.” He flipped open the trunk and threw it back. “Come out, Astra, you’re home and free!”

Augustus Rookwood let out a sudden cry and his eyes went as round as saucers when he followed the wide-span of wings and a sound of an elegant yet terrifying screech as Astra streaked herself into the sky. She let out a caw and began to circle.

“Bloody hell!” Roldolphus whispered in shock.

“Great Merlin…!” He stroked at his beard as he watched her do an aerial circle and then come back around. He flinched when she began to head straight for Hadrian at perfect height. “Ha-” But he stopped when she stopped an inch before Hadrian.

He reached up and scratched her on the head, she preened, and then nuzzled him. “Isn’t she beautiful? Can I keep her?”

Rodolphus leaned over and hissed to Hadrian’s dad. “This is your fault, Augustus. All your fault! Discover things for himself you said. Let him make his own mind up you said. Well, he’s done it now!”

Before his dad could respond there was a thunder of paws along the ground and Hadrian whipped his head around, grinning. “Hey boys! Ohhh I have missed you!”

“What-?!”

Cerberus Marcus, Cass, and Blaise came barrelling toward him like one giant puppy with their long tails wagging. The first head bumped him, second licked him, and the third tried to nuzzle him only for Hadrian to come away with drool all over him.

The real Marcus, Cassius, and Blaise had lost all the air in their lungs. No matter how hard they tried, they couldn’t keep their faces blank because they were all nearly collapsed, bent over and laughing.

“Aren’t they beautiful, Dad?!” He beamed and wondered why his dad looked like he was about to faint. He never fainted.

Ah well, he’d get used to it.

-Finite-