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Chapter Text

He had felt it building since the moment the Death Eaters appeared.

He didn’t know why; wasn’t sure what good it would do. It took everything in him to hold it back. Through all the fighting and running, through seeing his friends placed in danger, through the realization that he had been tricked and all of this was for nothing, he had held it back.

And then Sirius was hit by an unknown spell and Harry watched as he fell backward through the strange archway that had been whispering to him.

He screamed.

Unimaginable pain hit him in that moment, pain worse than what he had felt during the graveyard the previous year. It was like every bone is his body broke and reformed, he could feel something in his back tear, could feel the blood running down the previously clean skin. There were sounds around him, someone calling his name. Others telling him to stop screaming. He couldn’t. He had to keep going, had to keep screaming. Had to call them.

It didn’t register that he had no idea who he was calling.

There were bright flashes of light forming around him but Harry didn’t care, not at that moment. No, because the pain had stopped and his eyes now zeroed in on one person and one person alone.

Their eyes met.

She ran.

He followed.

“I killed Sirius Black!” the woman taunted as she threw spell after spell behind her, Harry managing to dodge them all without a second thought. His hand tightened around his wand and he momentarily thought of the curse he had been hit with the year before, the one that had caused so much pain. It was unforgivable to use. Crucio…it would have been so easy.

But it wasn’t right.

He barely registered that he tossed his wand to the side and launched himself forward, taking Bellatrix down in one pounce. He moved, letting his claws swipe across any patch of skin he could find. She wouldn’t get away with what she had done. He wouldn’t let her.

Claws.

The thought took a moment to process and when it did, Harry stopped all movement to see what he had done. Bellatrix was lying beneath him, gasping for air. There was blood, so much blood on her and surrounding them. So much blood on Harry. Bellatrix gurgled, lifting a blood red hand and pressing it against the deep wounds in her neck. Harry thought he should help her. He hadn’t meant to kill her…had he?

“Very good, Harry,” a new, sickeningly familiar voice taunted. “Unexpected. So much blood lust. What a charming change.”

Voldemort had arrived.

________

Theo had been sitting in the Slytherin common room, flipping through his Transfiguration book and trying to ignore Draco’s whining when he felt it. The sharp tug in his chest that he had only heard about and never expected to actually feel.

A soulbond.

Called because of a soulscream.

He rose to his feet quickly, knowing that he needed to get out of the common room before something happened that he couldn’t explain. He hurried toward the stairs and couldn’t help but blink in surprise when he saw Blaise following him just as quickly, his own hand rubbing against his chest in a way reminiscent to Theo’s own movements.

Wasn’t that an interesting development.

“Wh-hey! What’s going on?” Draco demanded, a pout forming as he ran after the other two Slytherins. Theo grimaced and glanced toward Blaise. They both knew that it was a possibility that Draco would come into his own dragel inheritance in a few months but until that time, neither of them had planned on letting the blonde into their secret.

It seemed like they weren’t going to have a choice about that now.

“Soulscream,” Blaise answered through gritted teeth, pushing Theo into their shared dorm room and letting his violet eyes flicker around quickly to make sure that no one else was present.

“A what?” Draco questioned. He studied both Theo and Blaise’s tense positions and turned quickly, making sure that their dorm room door was shut and warded. Theo inwardly rolled his eyes. He had always been perceptive at the most inopportune times.

“Dragels,” Theo spit out, the tugging in his chest growing worse by the second. “Our submissive is in danger. We’re going to be pulled toward them.” Draco’s eyes were wide as he glanced between Theo and Blaise. He opened his mouth, most likely to demand answers, but Theo cut him off. They didn’t have time for any more explanations. “Go to Professor Snape. Let him know what happened. He can explain.”

Draco looked even more intrigued but no one had a chance to say another word as Theo and Blaise disappeared in a bright light.

___________

Ariki Deveraine smile down at the slightly younger dragel he was teaching at the moment. The boy was definitely cute with his dark hair and bright blue eyes and he was excited about flying in a way that Ariki found particularly endearing. The submissive dragel had shown interest in Ariki over the last few weeks but this was the first day the other seemed to be making some sort of advance.

“I was hoping that we could-“

Unfortunately, right at that moment a sharp, painful tug made itself known in the center of Ariki’s chest. He gasped, leaning over as he pressed a hand against the area. There wasn’t any sort of wound, nothing visible at least. But that tugging…

Ariki didn’t even attempt to fight as a bright light appeared around him, whisking him away from the training grounds and the now pouting submissive. “Or not,” the young man groaned.

_____________

Quinn Kalzik smiled politely as he led his last patient of the day out of the exam room. It had been a long, tiring day that had pushed him close to his limit. He had had a full schedule already but the matron had added two unexpected cases onto him at the last moment. He was just lucky Kyle had been there with him and had been able to do some of the more basic tests.

He was looking forward to heading home and getting a good nights sleep before he had to do it all again the next day. He was pretty sure his schedule was just as booked as it had been the last week.

He let out a soundless sigh and turned toward the cabinet he had been stocking. Best to get it over with now. It would be just his luck to not stock something vital and end up needing it the next day. “Well, that was a massive mess,” Kyle chirped as he walked into the room with his hands full of some of the missing items. Quinn quirked a smile at the wavelength they shared. One that had been forged in circumstances that Quinn still regretted and punished himself for daily. He was just lucky that Kyle was the type of person he was and had forgiven him, even if Quinn thought that he shouldn’t. “Mama is going to be upset with us again. Especially you,” he said, shaking his head in mock disappointment. “You look dead on your feet, Quinn.”

I’m fine.

“You’re not,” Kyle replied. “But I’ll let someone else deal with that. Let’s just take care of this so we can get out of here for the night. Hopefully we can leave before she sends someone else up to us.”

The clinic is closed.

“I wouldn’t put it pass her,” the other man sighed. He placed the last of the bottles in the cabinet and then stepped back, eyeing it with his hands on his hips. “Looks good. Ready to go?” Quinn nodded and began to follow Kyle out of the room, only to stop when he felt something odd in his chest. He frowned. That couldn’t be what he thought it was. He had protections in place to stop that. Well, he had protections. When had he last gotten them reinforced? “Quinn? You okay?” Quinn ignored his adoptive brother, frantically trying to stop what he knew was coming. This couldn’t happen. He didn’t deserve it. They didn’t deserve it. They shouldn’t be stuck with him, not after everything. Not with him being the way that he was. “Quinn! No! Stop. You have to stop!” Kyle said frantically, shaking his head and waving his arms around. Quinn knew he wouldn’t get too close, not with the possibility of getting pulled through as well. “Quinn, you have to go! I promise, no one will be upset. Please, please just let it through.”

Quinn knew he shouldn’t. He wanted to, more than anything, but he shouldn’t. It wouldn’t be fair. But when he met Kyle’s eyes, saw the desperation in them, he felt himself letting go.

He disappeared only moments later.

__________________

Hadrian had been contracted to the Cunningham’s for a few years at this point and he couldn’t complain about the work. It was interesting and kept him busy. It also paid well. Yet, sometimes he wanted to be as far away from them as possible. Especially when they were arguing about their next steps.

It was never good or safe to be around the Cunningham’s when they were arguing.

He sighed and leaned against the wall as he let the argument play out around him. They would come to a decision soon enough and then they could get this finished. It had been a long hunt and fairly enjoyable until this moment. Now he just wanted it over with.

Maybe that was why he didn’t even try to push off the tugging once it started. He simply stood up straight once more and said, “soulscream,” before letting go.

_______________________

Wikhn had started working with Dahlia for a year or so and he supposed it was going well. Much better than his former training circle. He just wished the Ace would stop getting on everyone’s bad side and getting them assigned to unpleasant placements. At least the clinic they were currently at had some sort of action. The last placement had almost made him lose his mind in boredom.

“Quinn? Quinn! No, stop!” Wikhn straightened up quickly when he heard the shout. The patients were all gone, there shouldn’t have been anything that he needed to step in for. He and Dahlia had just been waiting for the healer and medic to leave for the night so they could head home as well. He hurried forward, Dahlia a step in front of them. They arrived just in time to see the bright light surround the healer.

“What just happened?” Dahlia demanded, her hand on the knife at her side.

Kyle frowned at the spot his brother had been standing. “Soulscream. I need to contact mama and then follow-“

Wikhn blinked as a familiar light appeared around him. It was only then that he noticed the tight pull in his own chest. Dahlia and Kyle both turned toward him in surprise. “oh.”

___________________________

“How is your new project coming?” Ethan’s father asked as he and his family sat around their large dining table. Well, most of his family. A couple of his sisters had their own circles now and appeared sparingly while his brother was in the middle of his own research project and probably wouldn’t be seen until it was finished.

Ethan wished he could do the same but at this point, he was still waiting on some of his contacts to get him the required information. “Slow,” he admitted, receiving understanding looks in response. “Hopefully I can really start digging in within the next week or so.”

“Hmm,” his father responded. “Sometimes these things do take some time to get going. I do believe your uncle once started looking into the matter. Maybe he has some notes he can share with you.”

Ethan smiled tightly and hunched his shoulders forward. Sometimes being from a family of scholars was great. Other times, he just wanted to sink into the floor. It felt like there was very little that he could do that someone else in his family hadn’t already done, or at least started looking into. It made for a great foundation but…well, Ethan just wished that he could be different from his siblings in some way. But here they were. All pareya, all researchers. It was difficult to stand out in a family that was known for being brilliant.

“Um, Ethan?” his sister, Roslyn questioned.

“Hmm?”

“Are you alright?”

For a moment, Ethan worried that she had somehow read his mind and figured out one of his deepest, most shameful secrets. He panicked, wondering how he could save this situation, but when he looked toward her, he saw her staring at his chest. Ethan frowned and glanced down. He had a hand pressed tightly against an area that was now registering a sharp, biting pain. “oh,” he let out breathlessly. Maybe he would be a bit different after all.

________________________________

Devrim had been staying away from dragel regions for many years when he felt the unmistakable feeling in his chest. He could feel his eyes widen and his instincts perk up. He had never thought something like this would happen to him, not with his heritage. Not with the way his dragel side had been pushed down and hidden away.

And yet, here it was.

He knew he could put up a fight if he really wanted to, but the thought made him whine. This was his chance, a chance to be around people that would accept who and what he was. Well, they were supposed to. Wasn’t that the entire point?

He supposed he would find out soon enough.

____________________________

Idan and Minh were lounging on their sofa, Minh resting on top of Idan when the tugging started. The two men that had been laughing only seconds before, froze and looked at each other with wide, horrified eyes. “Do you-“

“Yes.”

“Good.”

As long as they were pulled together, there wouldn’t be any issues.

They weren’t going to be separated.

No matter what happened.

_________________________

Alec knew that it was going to be a bad day. His dear cousin had been furious over something that wasn’t Alec’s fault but he still ended up taking the brunt of the anger. Of course, it could have been a lot worse. He could have been descaled or beached. Not that he thought his cousin would go that far for something Alec didn’t have any control over, but you never knew when you caught the merrow king in a bad mood.

Alec supposed he was lucky that Killigan had been there to turn the others attention away from him long enough for Alec to go back to Goonther. He scowled and shook his head. Idiot king. What would he do without Alec, anyway? His talents were too important to be ignored. That was why the other man had tried to get Alec to side with him against his brothers in the first place.

Alec pushed that thought away. He didn’t want to think about his brothers. He still saw a few of them around the court from time to time since they were members of Crimson Tide, but they rarely interacted. He had thought, a few times actually, that a couple of them had made motions to speak with him, but they never had. He should stop thinking that they would.

“Alright, you stupid beast,” Alec said as he swam toward the sea dragon. “Ready to get started?”

Poor Goonther, who really didn’t want to get started because he had eaten something that wasn’t agreeing with him, brightened up significantly when his merrow trainer was picked up by a bright light.

____________________________

Bran ran the moment he felt the tugging sensation in his chest. He was young, too young really, but he knew what it meant. He had been warned from a young age that it could happen anytime after his tenth birthday. It was always a possibility. But he, like most, didn’t really think it would happen to him. Especially not now.

So he ran, hoping that he would be able to find one of his parents before he disappeared and no one knew where he went.

He should have expected his mother to be the one to find him. She was in her corporeal form for once and she instantly scooped him into a tight hug. “You’ll be fine,” she whispered as she ran a hand down his back. “Trust yourself. Trust them. I can’t see where you are going and I can’t follow, but I know you’ll be back. Stay safe.”

She was still holding him when the light whisked him away.

___________________________

Harry didn’t know what was happening. One moment, he was kneeling over Bellatrix. Then Voldemort was there and saying things. Things that Harry really didn’t understand. He remembered dodging when Voldemort threw a spell at him but it wouldn’t have reached him in the first place. A statue had appeared right in front of where he was kneeling, taking the brunt of the spell.

Dumbledore was there.

And then there was lights flashing, screaming…and Harry found himself yelling in pain as his scar seemed to explode. There was a voice in his head, a voice that shouldn’t be there. Telling him things, things he knew wasn’t true. He needed it out.

“Possession? What do you mean possession?”

“Do something!”

“We got them…”

“What’s happening?!”

“How do we…”

“You! Healer! What-“

And then it stopped. The pain was gone, and Harry was gasping for breath, laying on the floor. He opened his eyes, only to stare into a blood red pair. A pair attached to a head that was no longer attached to a body.

Where was Voldemort’s body?

“He was here,” a voice whispered. “he was – but the boy. The boy! The boy is a dark creature! That’s how he was able to know! Aurors! The boy and the other creatures! Get them!”

There were growls. So many growls. Harry felt his own growl rise in response. No. He wouldn’t hurt them. No one would hurt them. He pushed himself to his feet, ready to fight if he needed to, but multiple bodies moved to surround him.

“Hold on!” A voice growled from behind Harry. He barley had time to blink in surprise when an arm came to hold onto his waist. “Temptrificus Portgas!”

Chapter Text

Harry was thankful for the tight hold around his middle when they came to a hard landing inside an unfamiliar building. On instinct, he reached for his wand but found his pocket empty. He let out a low hiss when he remembered throwing it somewhere in the ministry. Great. Here he was, in an unknown place with unknown people and nothing to defend himself.

It seemed like he couldn’t do anything right that night.

“Take a breath,” the person pressed against his back ordered calmly. Harry’s mind protested loudly as his body did as the other requested, even going as far as to relax completely against the person behind him. “Good. Just breathe for a moment while we get our bearings.”

Harry let out a low whine and was rewarded with the arms tightening around him, holding him close. His mouth grew dry. Why wasn’t he fighting this? What was going on? Where was he? He started to tense once more when he saw the multiple gazes being sent his way by people he didn’t know and had never seen. He looked around frantically, trying to find someone, anyone that he knew. He flinched back when his eyes met a pair of familiar, violet ones. “Zabini?” the question was out before Harry could really think about it.

The Slytherin boy smirked in his direction. “Potter. Seems like you got yourself into yet another mess.”

Mess. Right, that was one way to put it. But it didn’t explain what the hell Blaise Zabini was doing there. Or any of his other questions. “I – I have to go back! Where am I? How do I go back?”

The arms tightened yet again but Harry pulled away, determined to see the person that had said those words that seemed to bring them here. He was familiar, just like Zabini was. He knew him by sight but had never really spoken to him.

Theodore Nott.

Harry let out a desperate whine, rearing back in surprise. Theodore let out a low purr of his own, one that had Harry’s shoulders relaxing on instinct. Harry looked into the golden brown eyes in front of him, completely bewildered by his actions. “Give us a moment and we’ll explain everything, treasure,” Theodore spoke calmly and without the hint of hostility Harry would have expected. “Right now, you need to take a breath so we can figure out where we go from here.”

Harry wanted to. He did. He wasn’t sure why he did, but he did. But… “I have to go back. My friends – they’re still there! And Sirius fell into that archway and I have to get him out – “

“Sirius?” Theodore asked sharply, a furrow between his brown.

“Black. My godfather,” Harry responded quickly. He saw the dawning understanding flash across Theodore’s face, and the anger. “He’s innocent! He didn’t do it! But he fell. I can’t be here, I need to-“

“The archway?” Theodore cut him off smoothly. Harry nodded, not wanting to explain about the strange voices he had heard to someone that he didn’t know. Theodore shot a look to a man that Harry hadn’t noticed until right that moment. He was tall, wearing dark clothing and a mask, and had weapons all over his body. The man met Theodore’s eyes, then nodded and disappeared into the shadows.

Harry gaped.

“If we can get him out, we will,” Theodore reassured him but Harry was shaking his head. They didn’t understand. Didn’t know what was going on.

“My friends-“

“I’m sure Dumbledore has taken care of them,” Theodore responded. Harry scowled and Theodore sighed before glancing toward another man. This one was extremely pale and watching them closely. He grinned lazily at Theodore and gave him a mocking salute before grabbing the arm of the man beside him. Those strange words were spoken yet again and the two of them were gone in a flash of light.

“How are they doing that?” Harry demanded.

Theodore shrugged. “One thing at a time.”

Harry’s shoulders squared and he rounded on the other teen. Theodore met his gaze calmly. “What is going on? Why are you here? Where are we? I need to go-“

“You need to stay right where you are,” a new, irritated sounding voice cut off Harry’s tirade before it could really get started. “You landwalkers make everything so complicated.” Scowling, Harry turned toward the person that interrupted him. The scowl quickly fell when his eyes landed on the man. He was taller than Harry, well, everyone was taller than Harry, with blue skin and dark blue hair. Harry blinked at how…pretty the other was. “Merrow,” the young man grunted, as if that was supposed to mean something to Harry. “Your alpha just sent the gheyo to check on whoever it is you’re worried about. They can handle it.”

Alpha? Gheyo? Merrow?

“You have no idea what I’m saying, do you?” the man questioned. Harry sputtered indignantly but the other just waved his hand. “well, this should be fun. Hey, someone want to do something about this before he passes out from the stress or something?”

Less than a second later, another young man was standing in front of him. He had blond hair and bright, teal eyes. Eyes that were scanning over Harry quickly as he waved a hand. Harry instantly relaxed and the waring emotions inside of him seemed to calm. He blinked at the strange feeling. “Calming spell?” Theodore questioned and the young man nodded. He hesitated for a moment, then gestured to where another figure, one that looked no older than Harry, was shaking on the ground. They seemed to be…flickering? Changing in a way Harry had never seen before. It was kind of like when Tonks was shifting her features but this person didn’t seem to be in control over it. Harry whined as he watched them. That had to hurt.

“Go,” Theodore responded to the unspoken question instantly and the teal eyed man was instantly at the figures side. There was another young man there, this one with dark skin and eyes. He had been attempting to help the person on the ground but they kept flinching away from him. The dark skinned man looked worried and hurt at the response.

Harry couldn’t stop the whine from escaping at the sight.

He didn’t fail to see the responses that the sound received from those around them. Shoulders tensed, fists clenched. The blue skinned male reached out and gently tugged on Harry’s ear. “None of that, now. Your healer is going to help.”

Healer?

Harry felt like he was getting more and more lost the longer he spoke to these people. He wanted to find his friends, wanted answers, and he wanted…something. It was like every nerve in his body was screaming at him that he was supposed to be doing something but he didn’t know what that was. Harry bit his lip and decided to ask at least some of his basic questions, but just then a shadow appeared from the corner of his eye. He whirled around, once again reaching for a wand that wasn’t there, but it was just the three men that had disappeared a few minutes before. Between them was a familiar figure, one that Harry really hadn’t expected to see again.

“Sirius!”

He jumped forward, ready to kneel before the man that was being placed on the ground, but a pair of blue arms stopped him “Stop, get off-“

“Let your healer work,” the man said, not loosening his hold in the slightest. “You don’t want to be in his way, do you?”

The words made Harry slump forward but he watched intently as the teal eyed man moved toward the completely still Sirius. He didn’t say anything, actually, Harry didn’t think he had said anything this entire time, but he was waving his hands over his godfathers form and Harry could swear he saw bright, teal magic pouring out of him.

“Incoming!” someone shouted and only a second later, bright lights began to appear all over the room, depositing even more people that Harry had never seen.

“Oretta!” Theodore said, the first real hint of emotion in his voice since they arrived. Harry felt his face twist into a scowl as the other teen moved toward a stocky woman with weapons in her hands. The woman scanned the area quickly, her eyes barely pausing on Harry before she placed the weapons at her sides and pulled Theodore into a hug.

Harry twitched.

“Theodore. I assume the danger is passed?”

“For the moment.”

Harry didn’t hear the next words the other spoke because another young man, this one with bright green hair, ran toward a kneeling, shaking Quinn. “Quinn! You’ve already exhausted your magic. What are you doing?” he took in the situation quickly and turned to shout something over his shoulder. Another man moved forward quickly, kneeling beside the teal eyed man that Harry now assumed was named Quinn. “He fell through what? Arielle…”

“Harry.”

Harry turned his attention back to Theodore, who had moved toward him with the unknown woman. “I need you to tell me what happened.”

Harry frowned. He wasn’t sure why he was being asked. It was clear these people knew more about what was going on then harry did. “I don’t know. I don’t know who anyone is or why we’re here or-“

“Not that,” Theodore said, shaking his head and waving it away like it wasn’t important. Harry disagreed. He thought it was very important. “You screamed, right? I need to know what led up to it.”

Harry blinked. He wanted to know why Harry screamed? “Sirius fell,” Harry responded duly.

“Yes,” Theodore agreed, his own brows furrowing. “So you’ve said. They were able to get him out.” He gestured toward where Sirius was lying, now surrounded by people. “But you screamed because…”

“Sirius fell.” Harry repeated yet again, not understanding why the words weren’t registering with the young man in front of him.

Theodore frowned and the arm around Harry’s waist tightened. Oh. He had forgotten about the blue man. “Are you saying you screamed because your godfather fell through the doorway?” the man asked and Harry nodded, relieved that someone understood what he was saying. “Not because you were in danger?”

Harry frowned. “I’m always in danger. It wasn’t anything new. Well,” he winced as he recalled the blazing pain in his forehead and the dark, oozing magic that he had felt inside of him. “The possession part was new. Kind of.”

“Possession?” the woman behind Harry asked sharply. Her golden eyes narrowed. “what do you mean that you’re always in danger?”

Harry didn’t respond to the question and Theodore sighed as he reached up to pinch the bridge of his nose. “He means what he says,” the Slytherin countered. “I supposed I should be thankful it took this long. From things I’ve heard, it probably should have happened years ago.”

“Explain.”

“Not now,” Theodore responded, earning himself an irritated look and a light slap in the back of the head.

Harry growled.

Both the woman and Theodore froze for a moment. Theodore took a slow step forward. “It didn’t mean anything, Harry. It didn’t hurt. It was just Ilsa’s way of telling me to think before I speak.”

Harry scowled at the woman and turned away from the two of them, one again looking to where Sirius was laying. He could barely see his godfather with all of the other people surrounding him. Quinn was looking shakier by the minute and the green haired man beside him was whispering something frantically. Quinn shook his head and the dreadlocked man that had knelt beside him said something in response. Harry wished that he could hear them.

Finally, after what seemed like ages to Harry, Quinn pushed himself to his feet with the help of the two men beside him and fixed his eyes on him. “He’s going to be fine,” the green haired man said. “He took a nasty curse that was boiling him alive. Falling through the veil was probably the only thing that saved him. He’s a hellhound,” Kyle shot a look toward a couple of the men standing off to the side. The ones with weapons.

“He’s a what?”

“A hellhound,” the green haired man once again stated, sounding bewildered that Harry was questioning the words. He blinked. “Oh. I see. Well, that complicates things. I think I’ll let someone else do the explaining bit, then.”

“And with that,” Theodore said loudly, causing everyone to fall silent. Harry blinked. He wasn’t sure why the other teen speaking had that affect but it felt right for some reason. Weird, since he was pretty sure he hadn’t ever heard Nott speak before and he had been in classes with him for the past five years. “Can everyone pulled here from the scream circle up? Introductions and some explanations,” he shot a small smile in Harry’s direction, “are needed.”

Harry found himself shuffled forward and sitting between Theodore and the blue skinned man with the woman Theodore had hugged standing behind him. The others all filled in, sitting in a circle with those that had arrived later standing around the outside. “Right,” Theodore muttered. “Harry, I’m sure this is very confusing. As far as I know, there hasn’t been a dragel in the Potter family, so I’m not sure where your inheritance came from.”

“Dragel?”

Theodore nodded and leaned forward to stare into Harry’s eyes. “Dragels are essentially a human-elemental-dragon hybrid. Dragel’s are very rare in the wizarding world. Most of our kind live in Nevarah. Dragel’s, unlike most wizards, have bonded circles that revolve around a submissive Dragel. The submissive’s power dictates how many people will be in the circle. There are various ranks within a circle. There’s alpha, beta, pareya, gheyo, mage, royal, merrow, healer, advisor, companion, gheyic pareya, and carrier. Not all circles have all ranks. All ranks have a particular skill set that are tailored toward the submissive. Are you following me so far?”

“Not really,” Harry muttered, his head swimming with information. “wait, so I’m a dragel? Even though there hasn’t been one in my family?”

“We don’t know there hasn’t been one,” Theodore said, shrugging his elegant shoulders in a way that seemed unnatural to the posh boy. “I just haven’t heard of one. But there had to be Dragel blood somewhere or you wouldn’t have come into your inheritance. Most Dragel’s come into their inheritance on their sixteenth birthday. It takes extenuating circumstances for them to inherit early. Mostly a life or death situation.” He nodded at Harry. “which you have plenty of experience in, if I’ve heard things correctly. It seems that the possible death of your godfather is what pushed your own inheritance into action. Despite that, you are still technically underage until your sixteenth birthday.”

“I thought it was seventeenth.”

“It is in the wizarding world. Sixteen for Dragels.”

Harry slowly nodded, not sure that he truly understood what he was being told but deciding just to accept it and move on. It had seemed to work for him in the past. Mostly, anyway.

“I believe that I’ll let everyone explain their ranks on their own,” Theodore commented, his golden eyes flashing in amusement as he watched Harry closely. “it will be easier that way. I’m sure everyone would appreciate a few moments alone with you, anyway.” There were nods around the room. Harry frowned. Why would anyone want to spend time with him?

Wait… hadn’t Theodore said…

“I’m the submissive?” Harry squeaked and there were a number of laughs that followed. He flushed. That didn’t sound like a good thing. He thought back to his time with his relatives. The cooking, cleaning, being ordered around. He couldn’t do that for the rest of his life. He wouldn’t.

“It’s not what you’re thinking,” Theodore sighed, looking up toward the ceiling in thought. “The submissive is the heart of a circle. They have more power than anyone else. They’re part of the main triad, which is made up of the alpha, beta, and submissive. You aren’t at the bottom of the pecking order, or whatever it is you’re imagining. In fact, in normal circumstances you would be the one in charge of finding and choosing members to complete our circle. However, you gave a soulscream when you were at the ministry.”

“Soulscream?”

“A Dragel can give three types of cries,” the woman behind Theodore cut in and Harry reluctantly turned his attention toward her. “A heart cry, that requests the attention and response from a partner. A soulcry that opens up the possibilities of soulbonded. And a soulscream. A soulscream can only be done when a submissive is in true danger. The cry pulls all of the submissives soulbonded, or soulmates if you will, to them to help.”

Harry’s face flushed and he looked around quickly at all of those Theodore had said were part of his circle. All of these people? All of them were his…soulmates?

There were more chuckles and some coos that had Harry ducking his head. He had pulled them away from wherever they had been. “Sorry,” he muttered. “I didn’t mean to ruin your lives or anything.”

A sharp tug on his ear had Harry letting out a hiss as he glared at the blue skinned man beside him. “You didn’t ruin anything so get that thought out of your head. It’s rare to be pulled by a soulscream but no one here is going to regret it. How could we when we’re able to be with our true bonded?”

With those words, Harry’s face burned and he buried it in his hands to try and stop the growing sound of the agreements swirling around him. He swallowed hard. Right. No matter what they said, he had done something that would completely change their lives and force them to be with people they didn’t know and hadn’t got to choose. He would just have to do everything he could to make it up to them. “I think we should do introductions,” Theodore cut in and everyone quieted once more. “I’m Theodore Gorgens-Nott, alpha, Earth type. This is Harry Potter, our submissive.” Harry nodded shyly, glad that Theodore had taken that over. He had never enjoyed speaking in front of a large group and most of the time, he didn’t have to. He was used to people knowing who he was. It was odd that none of these people did.

“Alec. Merrow,” the blue skinned man said bluntly as he crossed his arms over his chest. Harry blinked. Alright, apparently that was all he was going to get.

“Ethan Hartwood. Pareya. Earth type.” It was the dark skinned young man that had been trying to help the younger kid that was in pain. The kid that was now sitting at his side, perfectly stable from the looks of it, though Harry did notice he was keeping a careful distance from those around him.

“Bran Kadel, nameless,” he muttered, avoiding looking at anyone’s eyes. Ethan sent an encouraging smile his way but Harry was pretty sure the teen didn’t see it.

“Devrim, Ekene.” Harry hadn’t even noticed the next man that spoke. He was also avoiding looking at anyone, his shoulders hunched forward protectively. Harry wanted to coo but held it back.

“Minh Shiae. Gheyo, Air.” The next man spoke, throwing his blond hair over his shoulder before tugging on the pale man beside him. These were the two that had disappeared when Harry asked about his friends. He jolted. His friends! How had he forgotten? “This is Idan Koelior. Gheyo, Air. Your friends have all been taken to your school by your headmaster,” he said, almost as if he had read Harry’s mind. Harry paled. Could they do that?

“Wikhn. Dark Fae.”

Dark Fae? That was a thing?

Harry was never going to understand what was going on.

“Quinn Kalzik, Healer, Earth type,” it was the green haired man speaking but the teal eyes man that stepped forward and bowed. “Quinn had an accident a few years ago and is mute. I’m his brother, Kyle. I talk for him through our link. He has other ways of communicating if I’m not here.” Harry frowned. That was kind of…uncomfortable. He’d rather just be able to talk to the young man himself.

“Hadrian Maruke, contracted Gheyo to the Cunninghams,” the next man said. He was the one that had been swallowed by the shadows earlier.

“Blaise Zabini. Joker.” The words had an immediate effect, many people turning wide eyes to the Slytherin who just stared impassively back at them. Harry sighed. He was missing something yet again. “I go to school with Theo and Harry. Though that might not be the case any longer,” he said, looking at Theodore (Theo?) inquisitively.

“We’ll see,” Theodore responded with a quick glance in Harry’s direction. “It will need to be discussed.” He looked toward the last young man, the one sitting at his side. “And you?”

The woman behind him snorted loudly and Theodore raised an eyebrow. “I know you two didn’t spend much time together but I expected better than this,” she muttered, rolling her eyes at the protest the young man let out.

He sighed. “Ariki Deveraine. Beta, air type. She’s my mother,” he muttered the last part and Harry couldn’t stop the giggle that welled in his throat at the look of shock that crossed Theodore’s face. It was nice to know that there was something that could ruffle the Slytherin teen. Harry hadn’t really been sure.

“Now that that is finished,” Kyle said. "Quinn would like us to do a quick health check on everyone. Even though he’s exhausted and should really be resting,” he chided the other man but got a long stare in response. “Right. Fine. Just quick ones. Nothing in depth. We can deal with that tomorrow.”

Theodore nodded his assent and Quinn moved toward Harry without a second thought. Harry blinked as words appeared in front of the young man. I can talk to you like this or use a temporary connection. Do you consent to me doing a health check?

Harry sighed in relief. So there was a way he could talk to him. “The connection is fine. And…yes? I consent?” to whatever it was he was going to do? Quinn sent him a soft smile and did something with his hands again. Harry stared in fascination at the teal, warm magic. Oh. That was nice.

The smile on Quinn’s face fell and his brows furrowed. The magic stopped and he reached out toward Harry, placing a soft hand on his arm. There are a lot of things we are going to need to discuss. I’m a healer and I take confidentiality seriously, but there are some things I will need to speak to our alpha about as well. And others that would be best known by the whole circle. I will not discuss any of your previous injuries or what I suspect caused them until you allow me to do so. Agreed?

Harry took a moment to process the words. No one had ever asked him about any of that before. “I…guess? What do you need to talk about with everyone?”

Seals. At Harry’s confused look, Quinn grimaced. I will explain more when we discuss them.

“Uh, alright?” At Harry’s agreement, Quinn turned away from him and looked toward the Merrow. Alec merely raised an eyebrow and Quinn shot a spell at him before nodding and going toward the next person in line.

“Interesting,” Alec muttered, staring at the healer with narrowed eyes. At Harry’s questioning chirp (a sound he had no idea he could make and was kind of mortified to realize came out of him), Alec shrugged his shoulders and leaned back against the palms of his hands. “Most healers aren’t aware of spells for my kind. He did it without thinking.”

Right. His kind.

Harry wanted to ask more, Theodore had said that he could talk to everyone about their ranks later, but a new, overwhelming urge seemed to come over him. He let out a loud whine as his teeth seemed to sharpen and his gums ached. “Wondered when that would happen,” Theodore said from his side. He smoothly came to his feet and reached down to grab Harry’s hand, pulling him up as well. The others watched as Theodore pulled him off to the side, slightly away from prying eyes. “One thing I didn’t mention is that Dragels feed off blood, Harry. No, not like vampires,” he said, rolling his eyes when Harry made a loud squeak. “We still eat food but blood is a substance that we need to stay alive. It’s perfectly natural for people to feed off of those in their family or bonding circle.” He hesitated for a second, then plowed on. “Your soulscream started the bonding process but you’re going to need to bite each of us, and us you, to seal the claim. If this had happened in a few months, after you were sixteen, there would be some other things we need to do as well. But since you’re underage…just a bite and a hug should do it.”

Harry wanted to question about these other things that Theodore mentioned but couldn’t get the words out of his mouth. Instead, he stared at the expanse of pale flesh on Theodore’s neck. His gums ached. “Anywhere you want, treasure,” Theodore said softly and Harry flushed at the name. It didn’t stop him from moving forward and standing slightly on his toes to reach Theodore’s neck, despite the fact that the other was bending down to make it easier for him. He placed his teeth against the flesh and bit down. He was unable to stop the groan of pure pleasure that escaped him when the warm liquid filled his mouth. He moved closer, pressing himself more fully against the Slytherin. Theodore chuckled, then weaved his hand through Harry’s hair and gently lifted him away. Harry whined but Theodore shook his head. “That’s enough for now. You have plenty of others to feed from.” He eyed Harry’s neck and nodded to himself. “I’m going right here,” he said, lightly brushing his fingers high on Harry’s neck. “Ready?”

Harry nodded and let out a loud purr as the fangs pieced his throat. Theodore fed for only a moment before he pulled away and used his blood to close the wound. Then, he gave Harry the first true smile he had seen from the other and pulled him into a tight hug.

Click.

Chapter Text

Harry rested against Theodore happily for a few moments but the urges he was feeling weren’t fading. He whined, not wanting to move from Theodore’s arms but knowing that he needed to. Theodore chuckled, sending a warm buzz through Harry’s body. “Time to move onto everyone else, treasure. I’m sure they’re all pretty anxious to get to meet you officially.”

Harry grimaced and surprised himself when he buried his face against Theo’s chest. “this is weird, this is weird, this is weird,” he muttered out loud, earning yet another laugh from the man in front of him.

“It is, but just because it’s so new to you,” he assured Harry, placing a quick kiss on his forehead that had Harry’s face brightening once again. “I’m an alpha, Harry. Your alpha. I’m here to protect you and lead our circle. It’s natural that you feel safe with me – especially since I’m your soulbonded alpha.”

“Still weird.”

“Alright,” Theodore agreed. His arms tightened for just a moment once again before he let go completely and took a step back. Harry frowned. “Go see the others, treasure.”

Harry bit his lip as he looked back toward the circle he had just left. Many of the men averted their eyes and acted as if they hadn’t been watching the exchange closely. Harry sighed and turned to Theodore once again. “Theodo-“

“Ah,” he winced. “Just Theo. Should have mentioned that earlier.”

Harry nodded. “Theo. Who should I…?” he trailed off, not sure of what he was asking. Who should he bite? Were those the right words?

Theo’s lips quirked as his eyes flickered toward the circle of people. “There is a kind of traditional order,” he said slowly, “but I don’t really think that would fit us. And I’m sure that no one would mind. Just go with your instincts. They’ll tell you what you need.”

Instincts. Right. The last time he followed his instincts he almost got Sirius and all of his friends killed.

“Harry,” Theo said, his voice turning firm as he waited for Harry to meet his eyes. “Honest, all you have to do is go where your instincts lead you. No one here is going to get offended.”

Harry hesitated once more but slowly nodded his head and turned his attention back toward the men that were now talking quietly amongst themselves. It still didn’t stop the questioning looks that were being thrown his way. He swallowed and squared his shoulders. Right. Instincts. He could do this.

It would be fine.

_________________________

Theo waited until Harry started to hesitantly make his way toward Ariki, more traditional than he realized, before slipping off to speak to Quinn. He wasn’t sure what the other had found on Harry’s scan but he had reacted to the sharp look the healer had sent his way. He just wanted to make sure Harry was distracted before he figured out what was going on.

Quinn glanced at him as he stepped up beside him. The older dragel was doing another check on their youngest bonded, who was doing everything he could to avoid being touched by those around him. “Touch based ability,” the younger supplied when he caught Theo’s questioning look. “It – usually I have better control but the soulscream and the portal…”

Theo nodded and mentally filed the information away. He was sure that he would need to find out more about that at a later time but things seemed to be taken care of for the moment. Quinn waved a hand and the word cleared appeared in front of them. He then turned toward Theo and beckoned them off to the side of the room. The two made their way over and Quinn turned to him with a scowl. I would prefer to do this through a temporary connection, but I can get someone over here if that would make you more comfortable.

Theo’s eyebrow rose at the words. “I’ll agree to the connection. What did you find?”

Quinn placed his hand on Theo’s arm. Too much. He’s definitely lived a very hard life, especially for a submissive. There are some things that I cannot tell you without his permission, but just know that we will have more than enough for rights when it’s revealed. Theo scowled at the words. He had known, like everyone, that Harry’s life wasn’t as great as the headmaster had wanted them to think, but he hadn’t heard it being that bad. In addition, he has multiple seals on him. I think that it would be best for me to speak to the entire circle about those, because it’s going to affect us all. Theo sucked in a breath. Multiple seals. That couldn’t be a good thing. There is one I wanted to give you a warning about. A soul seal. It should have stopped him from being able to give a soulscream.

“But he did.”

He did. Quinn agreed. But the seal is only cracked. Not broken. That means that it wasn’t a full scream. Anyone that had any sort of protections in place to block a soulbond or anyone that were sealed themselves wouldn’t have been called. And I could see them, the open bonds. More than the people we have here.

Theo pinched the bridge of his nose. Of course, there were more. This was Harry Potter. There had to be some sort of conflict somewhere. “Right. So, more soulbonded that are not aware that they are soulbonded. What does that mean?”

Even after he finishes bonding to everyone here, he’s still going to feel those open bonds. He’s going to want to find them as soon as he can. If he meets them face-to-face, the bond should activate. Unless they’re actively fighting against it. A shadow crossed over Quinn’s face. But the important thing is that he’s not going to feel settled until all of those bonds are closed.

Theo sighed, wondering just how long that was going to take considering how many dragels there were. They might not even be in Nevarah for Harry to find. This was going to be a mess.

____________________

“So a beta is basically second in command and part of the triad?” Harry questioned from where he was curled up against Ariki’s side.

The other nodded and shifted so Harry could cuddle closer. “We also play mediator between Alpha and Submissive when needed. The triad is the backbone of any circle, so its important for the three of us to be united.”

Harry hummed and slowly nodded, taking in Ariki’s calm and relaxing posture. He could see how Ariki would be good at something like that. Everything in him was screaming that Theo was going to be a good alpha, a great one, but he had a feeling the two of them would end up butting heads at some point. A mediator would be welcome at that point. “Alright,” he hesitated before climbing up on his knees. “So, am I just supposed to bite or is there some sort of traditional thing I don’t know about?”

Ariki laughed and shook his head. “I mean, you should probably ask before actually biting but there isn’t really anything set. Some of the Gheyo’s might ask for conditions but that’s just the way they are. They’ll explain that and their ranks.” At Harry’s questioning chirp, Ariki smiled. “Gheyo’s are basically a circle within a circle. They have an Ace that they answer to and the Ace either answers to the Alpha or Submissive. Considering we’re a soulbonded circle, they’ll probably swear to you first.” Harry frowned, not sure that he liked that. Theo was a good alpha. He knew it. “Anywhere you want is fine,” Ariki encouraged, getting Harry back on track. Harry smiled shyly at the other boy, then tilted his head to the side. There. He leaned forward and bit down, whining slightly when he felt Ariki wince. “It’s fine,” the other said, lifting his head to hold Harry in place. “Just a bit of pain for a second. It’s gone now.”

Harry finished his feeding and pulled away, looking at Ariki expectantly. Ariki laughed and tilted Harry’s head, putting his mark just below Theo’s.

Click.

Harry spent a few more minutes with Ariki before the itch took over once again. Ariki waved him away and Harry turned back toward the circle. He eyed Ethan and Bran for a moment but something about that didn’t feel right. Before he could really think of why that was, he turned toward the person standing in the far corner, having removed himself from the group when Harry was with Theo. Alec gave Harry a small smirk as he made his way toward him. “So, what’s a merrow?” Harry questioned, not even allowing himself to wonder why he had just draped himself across the front of the man. Alec let out a surprised “hmph” but caught Harry against him instantly.

“Water dragel,” the man responded promptly. “the others,” he motioned around him, “all live topside and intermingle. Merrow have our own court and lives underwater. We don’t go up much.”

Harry frowned, not liking the thought of that at all. “So you won’t be with us?”

Alec shook his head. “Those that bond to a landwalker circle stay upside but there has to be some provisions made. Some houses have flooded rooms, some have pools. We’ll have to see what can be found. I do work for the merrow court, so I’ll be down there every day.” He said it almost challengingly, like he thought Harry would tell him he wasn’t going to keep his job or something.

“Okay,” Harry responded easily enough. “I don’t want to make things harder for any of you. I would just want to know where you were.”

Alec blinked at the odd request but nodded his head. “Alright. Before you bite, know that merrow blood is a bit different. Don’t take too much or you’ll explode.”

“I’ll what?” Harry exclaimed, but the merrow just laughed and pulled Harry closer toward him, bearing his neck. Harry hesitantly moved forward, not sure of how serious the other was, and bit down. He instantly knew the other hadn’t been fully lying. The blood was different, it made every hair on Harry’s body stand on end. He could see how someone would be overwhelmed. He reluctantly pulled away and Alec smirked at him before tilting his head back and placing his own bite on Harry’s right shoulder.

Click.

This time, Harry went straight over to Ethan and Bran. Both grinned at him as he plopped between the two, making sure he wasn’t close enough to touch the younger dragel. He didn’t want to make him uncomfortable. “Bit too much merrow blood?” Bran questioned lightly.

Harry grinned back. “How’d you know?”

“You’re vibrating,” the younger stated bluntly. Harry looked down at himself in surprise. Huh. He was vibrating.

“Nothing to worry about,” Ethan assured him. “Just don’t indulge too often.” Harry nodded, still unsure about the whole exploding bit, but decided to put it and Alec out of mind while he focused on the two in front of him.

“So, you said you were a p…”

“Pareya. We insure that the circle has everything they need. Food, clothes, the housing situation is good for everyone.”

“They’re fussy,” Bran teased and Ethan grinned.

“We can be,” he hesitated. “It seems that I’m the only one. That’s fine, of course,” he said quickly, “it’s just…I might need some help in some areas.”

“Of course we’ll help!” Harry responded. “I wouldn’t want you to do all of that alone!” Ethan grinned and something in his shoulders seemed to ease. Harry turned toward Bran. “You didn’t say…”

“I’m only fourteen,” the boy in question responded. “I haven’t come into my inheritance yet, so I don’t really have a set rank. I’m considered a consort,” his  nose scrunched at the word and Harry couldn’t help the laugh that bubbled to the surface at the sight. “Until I turn sixteen, anyway.” His smile fell away and his shifted, pulling his long sleeves over his hands. “I, um, my gift allows me to see the history of any person or object I touch. I know we’ll have to exchange marks to bond but I wanted you to know because…well, I might not process everything right away, but I am going to see it.” Harry must have made some sort of expression because Bran dipped his head and his shoulders fell. “Sorry.”

“No!” Harry protested, reaching forward and barely stopping himself from touching the other boy. “No, it’s just…well, it isn’t pretty and I don’t want to hurt you or anything.”

Bran shook his head. “It won’t hurt. I mean, I probably won’t like it but it’s more of being uncomfortable. And making people uncomfortable.”

Harry clenched his jaw stubbornly. He wasn’t going to let the boy be upset by something that he couldn’t control just because it might make Harry a bit uncomfortable. “Is there anywhere in particular you want your mark?” He asked instead.

Bran blinked and shook his head. Harry moved toward him but Bran held up a hand. “There’s something else. I’m a changeling.” At Harry’s incomprehension, the boy sighed. “I have another form. A female one. You might have to mark both of us so it takes.”

Oh. That’s why he had been flickering earlier.

“Alright,” Harry responded easily. He moved slowly, wanting to be able to pull back if the boy changed his mind. Instead, Bran just tilted his head and allowed Harry to place a claiming mark. The boy tensed as the memories hit him, but he pushed them aside to sort through later. Now wasn’t the time. Harry slowly pulled away and Bran allowed Brynn to come to the forefront. “Did it take?” the female asked. Harry nodded and Brynn sighed. “Good. I go by Brynn in this form. I…don’t use it often.” Harry nodded again and Brynn slowly grabbed Harry’s wrist. “Can I?”

“Yes.”

Brynn bit down on Harry’s wrist shortly, then shifted back into Bran. The boy turned the his wrist over, biting down so the marks met one another on the side of Harry’s wrists. This time, the bite took longer as Bran fed gently. He pulled away and smiled. “Thank you.”

Click.

Harry gave Bran a quick hug and determinedly turned toward Ethan. The pareya smiled back. “Anywhere is fine.” Harry nodded and scooched toward him, already eyeing the swell between his neck and shoulder. He bit down, purring happily at the thick flavor. He almost didn’t want to pull away but he knew he had a lot more to do. He pulled back reluctantly and chirped at Ethan as he shifted to give the man access to his own neck. Ethan pressed a quick kiss to the area before sinking in his fangs. He didn’t stay long before pulling away and wrapping Harry in his arms.

Click.

Harry pushed himself to his feet after receiving more hugs from the two and pursed his lips as he surveyed his remaining bonded. The moment his eyes met the masked mans in the corner, he knew where he had to go. “Hello,” the man said softly, keeping his hands firmly away from the weapons at his sides. “You’re looking better.”

Harry grinned. “Apparently I’m vibrating.”

Hadrian laughed and nodded his head. “Yes, that does appear to be the case. Do you have any questions for me?”

Harry grinned. He was going to wish that he hadn’t asked that.

__________________________

“Okay,” Harry said. “So, with our suite we’ll have an Ace, King, Queen, Princess, Prince, and Joker. They all will answer to the Ace, except the Joker that can swear to the Ace, Alpha, or Submissive. Right?”

“Correct.”

“And you’re an Ace.”

“yes.”

“And Blaise is a Joker?”

“He is.”

“And the others?”

“Will need to determine their ranks,” Hadrian replied. “We will do so when we are a bit more settled. We will need to fight and I would rather not do it in front of you.”

Harry nodded quickly. “Please.” Hadrian smiled yet again and Harry responded in kind. “Okay. So, I was told that some of you might have conditions?”

“Yes,” Hadrian responded. “I am contracted to the Cunningham circle and cannot be courted at this time. However,” he cut off Harry’s protest. “there is a clause for a soulscream. We can bond but you will need to speak to the Cunninghams about releasing me from the contract as soon as possible.”

Harry nodded in agreement. “Bite now?”

“Of course, little one.”

Click.

Harry approached Devrim slowly. The man was fidgeting in the corner, eyes shifting around the group warily. Harry knew that posture, knew those motions. He had been like that in elementary school when he was just waiting for Dudley or one of his mates to attack him. He didn’t like that the man was feeling the same in a place where he should be comfortable.

Harry needed to make him comfortable.

“Hi,” he said as brightly as he could. Devrim jumped slightly but forced a small smile of his own. “I’m Harry but I guess you already know that.”

“Devrim.”

“Nice to meet you. You’re a gheyo, right? Hadrian just explained all the ranks and stuff to me, but I think you’re going to have to help me out a bit. It all seems a little confusing.”

Devrim smiled truly and some of the tenseness in his body started to fade. “It is at first but you’ll catch on quickly. We haven’t settled ranks yet but I’ll help you when we do.”

“Great!” Harry smiled. “Do you have any conditions? Or anything you want to ask me?”

Devrim hesitated and Harry was preparing himself for whatever it was the other man wanted to ask for, but instead he just shook his head. “Are you sure? I won’t be offended or anything.” Another shake. “Alright. Do you have any preferences on where I mark you?” Another shake. “Okay then.”

The process was over quickly, Devrim seeming too shy to actually hold more of a conversation at that time. Harry hoped that he would be able to open up once he became more comfortable. Everyone seemed like good people so far and he wasn’t going to tolerate any bullying in his circle.

He purred happily as Devrim pulled his fangs from his arm.

Click.

Idan and Minh hadn’t left each other’s sides since they arrived. Harry titled his head as he walked toward them, observing their closeness. They were pressed together tightly, talking so lowly that no one else could hear them. He almost felt as if he was interrupting and that he should let the two be, but before he could make good on that thought, they both snapped their heads in his direction. He froze under the two piercing gazes. “Sorry,” Idan said after a moment, his expression softening as he gestured Harry forward. “We’re a little too used to us being alone.”

“Alone?”

“Idan and I are soulbonded to each other, as well as to you,” Minh explained, grabbing Harry’s hand and pulling them into a sort of three-way hug. “We’ve been together for about five years. Honestly, we had almost given up on finding a circle of our own.”

“Oh.” Did that change things? Having the two of them bonded to each other?

“yes, oh,” Idan responded, amused. “We’re happy that we’re here, Harry. It just might take us a bit of time to get used to it.”

“…alright.”

“Hmm,” Minh flipped his hair over his shoulder, then pointed to a spot on his left arm. “Here, I think. Easy to spot but easy to cover if I have to.” Harry moved forward, not upset by the order, but before he could bite, Minh shook his head. “Best to do Idan first. He has…potions in his system that aren’t the best thing to drink.” He smiled at Idan’s glare. “Bit of a nasty surprise if you aren’t expecting it. I’m pureblood, so having me after him will get the taste out of your mouth.”

“Brat,” Idan muttered.

“Not wrong,” Minh shrugged.

Idan just rolled his eyes and turned toward Harry. “I’m not picky. Anywhere you want to go.” Harry decided that the two of them should have matching marks. He bit down in the place Minh had indicated and couldn’t help but scrunch up his nose at the taste. Minh chuckled as Harry pulled away quickly and bit into his own arm.

“See? Better this way.”

“Yeah, I know.”

Harry pulled back, glad that he no longer had that horrible flavor on his tongue, and shot Idan an apologetic glance. The man just shrugged. He and Minh exchanged a glance and then stood on either side of Harry, both of them moving together to bite his shoulders.

Click. Click.

Harry was hesitant as he made his way to the dark fae standing in the corner of the room. The man was watching everyone carefully, but his eyes continuously strayed to Harry. He wasn’t sure why, but Harry thought that the man really didn’t want to be here, despite what everyone kept telling him. “Hello,” Harry said quietly as he leaned against the wall beside the much taller man.

“Hello,” he responded, turning his head fully so his pink gaze met Harry’s own. “I have one condition.”

Alright, not a rejection then. Conditions, conditions were something that Harry could do. “Okay.”

Wikhn turned toward him fully then. “I will bond to you and you alone. I do not want to be forced to bond with the alpha or Ace.”

Harry blinked. He was sure that was something that was considered to be odd but he didn’t really see a problem with it. If Theo or Hadrian got upset, they could talk to him about it. But… “I won’t force you. But I would ask that you reconsider down the road.”

Wikhn’s jaw tightened but he nodded his head. “Acceptable.”

Harry beamed at the easy acceptance and reached forward, drawing toward the man’s chest. “Here okay?”

“It’s fine.”

Click.

Harry had both Blaise and Quinn left and he wasn’t sure which to approach first. Blaise was off with Theo, the two having their heads together as they muttered to one another. It was a posture that Harry had actually seen from the two before and he wondered just how close the two were. Hadn’t Hadrian said that Jokers usually chose who they bonded with? He assumed that Blaise would want to bond due to their soulbond, but maybe he would just prefer Theo?

And Quinn…hadn’t stopped moving since he got here. He was now waving his hand around Idan in a particularly unsettling way. Harry remembered the potions in the others’ blood and frowned. Maybe there was more to that story and Quinn wasn’t happy about whatever it was. Either way, he seemed to be a bit busy at the moment.

Mind made up, Harry moved toward Blaise and Theo. Theo’s eyes met his first and he smiled softly as he held out a hand. Harry didn’t think twice about grabbing it and wrapping their fingers together as he pressed himself against the alpha’s side. “Almost done, treasure?”

Treasure. There it was again. Harry blushed. “Almost,” he agreed, turning his green eyes to the bright violet ones in front of him. Harry wondered how he had never noticed the others eyes before now. They were beautiful.

“Anytime, Potter,” Blaise smirked, holding out his arms in a way that showed Harry he was free to pick and choose where he wanted to place his mark. Harry relaxed. So he did want to bond. Good. “All I ask is that only you and Theo can push about what made me a Joker and my inheritance.” Harry nodded. Easy enough.

Click.

Harry stayed with Theo and Blaise as he watched Quinn carefully. He wasn’t really listening to what the others were saying but he thought he heard mentions of leaving and Hogwarts. Harry decided that he would deal with that later, though. He was waiting for Quinn to take any sort of break so he could get a moment with him.

It was another five minutes before Quinn seemed to stop and take stock of everything around him. As soon as he did, Harry rushed over and planted himself firmly in the healers path. “You look tired. Shouldn’t you be getting some rest? I think you’ve checked on everyone here.”

Quinn grimaced and started to wave his hand but Harry grabbed it and linked their fingers together. “This is easier, yes?”

The man blinked, then gave Harry a tired smile. It is. I’ve checked on everyone and there isn’t anything left that can’t wait until we return to…where we’re going. I will just need a minute and then I’ll be fine as well.

Harry didn’t believe that for a moment but he wasn’t going to argue about it. He was sure that Theo would make sure their healer had more than just a minute. “Well, I don’t really know much about healers but do you have any conditions for me?”

The others asked for conditions?

“Some,” Harry responded. “Do you have any?”

Quinn didn’t meet his gaze for a moment, then he sighed. I have some…requests, but they can be negotiated. I would like to remain working as a healer. And I would ask that if you add more people to our circle, I would remain the only healer.

Why did people think he was going to tell them they couldn’t keep working at their jobs? “That sounds fine. It must take a lot to be a healer and it would be a waste if I made you give up something you love. And I won’t add anyone unless we’re all comfortable with it. Why would I do that?”

You’d be surprised.

Harry thought back to the people he knew, people that had treated him like garbage and that his opinions didn’t matter. He shook his head. “No, I don’t think I would be. So, is there anything else?”

Quinn’s eyes darkened and Harry realized the other was nervous. Very nervous. “Quinn?”

He let out a deep breath. I – I’m a bit different than others, Harry. You aren’t aware of this, but most of the time, bonds take an act of intimacy to complete. Since you’re underage, that act isn’t required.

“Act?”

Sex. Quinn replied bluntly and Harry felt his face burst into flames. The others will most likely be happy to indulge that when you’re old enough, both with you and with each other, but I most likely won’t. It’s never been an interest to me and I can’t imagine myself pertaining. That isn’t to say it’s completely off of the table, but for now-

“That’s fine,” Harry said, still blushing but wanting to assure the other as quickly as possible. “If that isn’t something you want, no one is going to force it. Does that mean you don’t want…any of it?” Harry asked, not really sure what he was trying to convey but not wanting to do anything that would make the man uncomfortable.

Quinn looked stunned for a moment. I – I like cuddles and kisses are fine. It’s just the sex itself that holds no interest.

“Okay,” Harry responded easily. “Is that everything?”

Quinn grimaced yet again and Harry almost laughed. How was it that everyone had warned him about the gheyo’s having conditions but it was his healer that had the most to say? I am from a healer line and have healers blood. It’s kind of like a controlled substance, he explained at Harry’s confused look. There are only certain reasons you can have it. But bonding to a healer is an exception. You just…take very little.

“Okay,” Harry agreed, interested in just what he would be feeling when he bonded to the healer. He was still shaking from feeding from Alec almost an hour ago. Surely it couldn’t be any different than that.

He was very, very wrong.

The moment the blood touched his tongue, Harry had to hold onto Quinn to keep himself on his feet. His head was swimming and all he wanted to do was continue to feed from the man in front of him. Quinn chuckled and grabbed Harry’s hair, forcing his head back. Harry’s eyes swam for a moment as he attempted to get his bearings. Alright?

“I…yes?”

Quinn let out a breathless chuckle yet again before leaning down to make his own mark on Harry’s collarbone.

Click.

Chapter Text

“You said that this is a temporary connection, right? Does that mean we can do a more permanent one?” Harry questioned as he leaned against Quinn’s chest. Quinn, who had his own arms wrapped loosely around Harry’s back, jerked in surprise.

Really? You’d want a permanent link?

“Of course, I would,” Harry frowned. Quinn was one of his bonded. Why wouldn’t he want to be able to speak to him anytime he wanted?

It makes some people uncomfortable.

Harry’s mind flashed back to Bran and his misgivings from earlier that day. It seemed many of his bonded had issues with people around them being uncomfortable because of who they were. Merlin, Harry had the same issue.  “Why? Would you be able to hear me all the time or something?” 

No. You’d have to be thinking about the words going to me. I couldn’t read your mind. 

“Then I really don’t see the problem,” Harry informed him. His breath caught in his throat at the blinding smile he received in return. 

I’ll need to set it up. It’ll work better if someone from my family does the actual ritual. Quinn promised. He squeezed Harry quickly before letting his arms loosen. For now, I think we should gather everyone and explain the seals that you currently have. I should warn you, some of the people here are going to get upset. He paused, then shook his head. Actually, everyone here is probably going to be upset. But we can work on removing all of them. It will just take some time.

“I still don’t really understand what they are,” Harry muttered but allowed Quinn to pull him over toward Theo. 

It depends on the type of seal. Quinn explained. There are different types that are used for different things. For example, a family might place a seal on their young child to help control accidental magic. It should fade over time.

The way Quinn stressed the word should worried Harry a bit. He had a feeling he had some seals that should have faded but didn’t. That would be just his luck.

Quinn whistled lowly, gaining Theo’s attention, and the alpha turned toward the two quickly. “Yes?”

I thought we could go over the seals. Quinn wrote. Theo nodded quickly in response and let out his own whistle. Every eye turned in his direction instantly. “Gather up. Quinn has some information for us.”

Everyone quickly fell into yet another circle and this time Harry found himself sitting against Theo’s side, the others arm thrown over his shoulder. He, along with everyone else, had their eyes fixed on Quinn. Harry saw Kyle move forward but Quinn placed a hand on his own throat and mimed something. A second later, there was a flash of teal light and the blonde let out a deep breath.

“Quinn!”

“Quinn.”

“I know,” the man replied, his voice low and raspy. Harry blinked. “But this is important.”

“Explain,” Theo cut in, eyeing Kyle and the dreadlocked man that were glaring at the healer. 

“It’s a spell that allows him to talk. But he isn’t supposed to use it because it makes the damage worse and makes it more likely he’ll never be able to talk again in the future.” Kyle glared at his brother.

Quinn stared back, not even slightly apologetic. Harry let out a sound of distress. If there was a possibility that Quinn’s voice could be returned, shouldn’t they be staying as far away from something that makes it worse? “Then he will not be using it in the future without a very good reason,” Theo responded, eyes leveling on Quinn in a way that demanded the other acknowledge him. Quinn’s lips turned down a bit but he nodded his head. “Good. Now, since it’s already in use, why don’t you tell us what you found?”

Quinn sucked in a deep breath. “Thirteen seals.” He paused, having expected the loud outcry from both the bonded and family that were surrounding them. “Two binding seals, one for wizarding magic and one for dragel. Those should be pretty easy to remove but they would eventually have caused him to not be able to use his magic at all. There are three family seals, one for Peverell and two for Evanson. We should look into those families for relations,” Quinn added to Theo. “Only a Peverell can remove their seal and one of the Evanson seals is ruin based. We’ll need them for that. Then there’s a blood seal.” Another large outcry. 

“What’s a blood seal?” Harry muttered to Theo as he saw everyone around him begin to hiss and growl. 

“You usually get a blood seal by using a dark artifact that involves your blood,” Ariki explained from where he was sitting at Theo’s side. “Can you think of anything?”

Harry’s hand clenched as he thought of Umbridge and the quill he had been writing lines with all year. “Uh, yeah. A teacher here had a quill that cut into my hand when I did lines. Would that do it?”

“A blood quill?” Theo growled, “Who was having you use a blood quill?” 

“Umbridge,” Harry responded with a shrug of his shoulders as he glanced down at his hand. At least whatever had happened to him had made the scars fade away. 

“A teacher. Had you use a blood quill.” The words were spoken in a flat tone, but it sent shivers up Harry’s spine. He frowned as he turned toward Hadrian. The man’s eyes were blazing furiously and Harry couldn’t stop himself from flinching back. 

“Yes?”

There were more growls and Theo let out a louder one of his own. “Enough. It will be dealt with,” he practically demanded, golden eyes locking onto Hadrian’s. The man nodded. 

Harry was sure he wasn’t going to like whatever it was that that meant. 

“The others are…more complicated,” Quinn admitted. Everyone tensed at the words. “There is a soul seal that is entwined with a prophetic seal and a death seal.” Bran hissed loudly as the rest of the group began to shout once more. “They appear to have been placed sometime between your first and second birthday.” Harry flinched. He wasn’t sure what that meant but he knew of an event that had happened at that time. “Then there are the three seals placed by a mentor. No one has arrived, have they?” At Theo’s shake of his head, Quinn nodded as if he had expected that. “Two of the seals were placed for protection. The third…” he paused. “The third looks like it was an attempt to break the death seal. Instead, it created another.”

More shouting. Harry’s head ached. He still had no idea what was going on or what any of this meant but he knew that everyone being furious on his behalf meant that it wasn’t good. “A death seal?” he asked tiredly. 

Theo and Ariki exchanged a glance, then Ariki held out his hand. “Knowledge transfer. It’ll be easier than us trying to explain it.” Harry frowned at that but placed his own hand into Ariki’s. Instantly, the information on the different types of seals filled his mind. Oh. So that’s why everyone was so upset.

“And the last?” Alec cut in, having stepped away from the corner he had been sequestered in. Everyone blinked and turned toward him. “You said thirteen. That was twelve.”

“Another soul seal,” Quinn admitted. “One that was meant to suppress. When Harry let out a soulscream, the seal cracked but it didn’t break.” 

The silence lasted longer this time as everyone processed those words. Finally, Bran sighed. “So, that means that not all of the soulbonded were called.” 

“No,” Quinn agreed. “Anyone that had any sort of protection in place would not have been called. But the bonds would have still activated.”

“Open soulbonds,” Alec said flatly. He turned toward Harry and shook his head. “You really are going to be trouble, aren't you?”

______________________ 

After Harry had a mild panic attack at the thought of having more bonded, Theo pressed a firm hand against the teens neck and settled him to sleep. He received some disapproving looks but he didn’t care. This had been a lot for Harry to take in and he was beginning to come to his limit. Some sleep would do him good.

"They're going to be looking for him," Blaise muttered, eyeing the boy that was sleeping in Theo's arms. "There's no way that they'll just let him go. Not now."

Theo nodded in agreement. After the last year, it was clear that Harry would always be in the spotlight, whether that was for good reasons or bad. And now that Voldemort had been shown to have been returned, and killed by Harry's mates shortely thereafter, he was sure that it wouldn't only be Harry's friends that were searching for him. He clearly remembered Fudge's order to grab Harry when it was clear he was a creature. He was sure that the ministry would find someway to use that information so they didn't lose face when they had to admit Voldemort had indeed returned. Too many people had seen for them to try and cover it up. Harry being a creature and surrounded by others of his kind would be ammunition that they could use against him. 

Theo had managed to get them all away and to Nott Manor before the Aurors had moved, but he was sure it would not take long for someone to realize where they were. Most of the people in the ministry would not have been able to recognize him, but he had clearly met Dumbledore's eyes right before he ported the group away. 

He was honestly surprised the man wasn't already there to try and get Harry back in his hands.

It wasn't a secret to anyone in Slytherin that Dumbledore had been manipulating the situation around the famed Boy-who-lived. Not all had been sure why, not until last year, but it was difficult for someone sorted in their house, a house known for being ambitious and manipulative, to not recognize it when it was so blatant in front of them. He was also aware that Harry had no idea. He was sure that was going to be a point of contention some time in the future. He just needed to figure out a way to show Harry the truth of the matter before it got out of hand.

The best way to do that would be to get them off realm as quickly as possible. 

He eyed the people around him. None of them had mentioned much about what they did in their everyday lives but he was sure that many of them had jobs that they would not like to leave, especially for a realm that was known to hate their kind. Based on Ilsa's reaction to their Ace, he was sure the man had a very particular skill set that would not serve him well here. In addition, the open soul bonded that Quinn spoke of would not be found on Earth. Any Earth raised Dragel would not have blocked said bond. No, the best thing to do would be to get them out of here and settled on Nevarah. 

He just wasn’t sure how to bring it up with Harry.

He still could not believe that he was soulbonded to Harry Potter, of all people. It wasn’t a disappointment, far from it if he was honest with himself, but the Potter’s were not known to have any creature blood in their veins. The fact that Harry was also known to have a particular type of luck worried Theo a bit. He was not sure he was ready for this situation, no matter how much Ilsa had been trying to reassure him. The fact that Blaise was also here with them was both a blessing and worrying as well. Blaise himself had not led a very pleasant life, which was obvious based on the fact that he was a Joker at the age of sixteen. Then there were the others in the circle… he eyed everyone yet again, not surprised that their own eyes flickered toward Harry every few seconds. He would need to spend time with each of them as soon as he was able. 

Harry might have been able to seal the bond with a bite and hug but that wasn’t the situation with Theo. He already felt his instincts rampaging at the fact that there were so many tied to his submissive and not to him. 

His arms tightened when he felt what he could only describe as a knock on the wards surrounding the manor. He grimaced. It looked like his earlier prediction was going to come true sooner than he expected. “What is it?” Blaise asked, his own body growing tight when he saw Theo’s reaction. Others also seemed to freeze in preparation, already in tune with Theo’s body language. 

Well, that was a positive sign.

“Someone is here,” Theo muttered as the knocking continued. “They’re also being extremely polite in a very annoying way.” Blaise raised an eyebrow in amusement and pushed himself to his feet. Theo glanced behind him and motioned toward the glowering merrow. Harry had seemed comfortable with the man earlier and Theo figured it was safe enough to leave him in Alec’s hands. If nothing else, he knew the bloodthirsty being would make sure Harry was kept safe. Alec came toward him easily enough, making himself comfortable on the ground and opening his arms so Theo could transfer a peaceful Harry into them. He felt bereft for a moment and desperately wanted to scoop the submissive up once more, but the knocking was beginning to give him a headache. He bit back a snarl and elegantly stood. “We have a visitor. Would anyone like to accompany me to the gate?”

Hadrian was beside him before he finished speaking. The man eyed the other gehyo and they all seemed to fall in step - all except the dark fae who leaned against a far wall, a very sharp dagger in his hand. He and Hadrian eyed one another slowly, then the Ace nodded and turned his own eyes away. Alright. Apparently, Wilkh would be staying exactly where he was. 

Ariki also joined the group and Theo led his way down to the front gate. He wasn’t sure what he expected but he was both surprised and not to see a familiar figure standing there. “Mr. Nott. I trust that yourself and Mr. Potter are well?” Albus Dumbledore questioned as Theo and his group came to a stop, the iron gate separating him from the headmaster.

“We are,” Theo agreed, keeping his face expressionless as he eyed the older man. “What can I do for you, professor?” 

Dumbledore looked surprised at the question. “My boy, I was just letting you know that the matter with Minister Fudge has been sorted and you, Mr. Zabani, and Harry are free to return to school.”

Theo tilted his head. “Minister Fudge seemed to be…upset about Harry’s inheritance.”

Dumbledore gave him a disappointed stare. “You are aware that there are many who believe creatures should not be part of our world, Mr. Nott. He was merely surprised to see Harry in such a position. However, I have spoken to him and gave him assurances that the matter will be taken care of. It is important that Harry continue his education, after all.”

Harry. Important that Harry continued his education. 

“And why is that, Professor? There are other institutions that Harry can attend that will not discriminate against his inheritance.”

Theo’s instincts came to the forefront when a dark look entered Dumbledore’s eyes. Before he could see exactly what it was, the man forced his grandfatherly persona to the front yet again. “Ah, but there are circumstances that make it imperative for Harry to remain here.”

“And what circumstances would those be?”

“I’m afraid I cannot tell you something like that, Mr. Nott,” Dumbledore chided. “The matter is for Harry-”

“Anything to do with Harry is my business, Professor,” Theo rebutled, titling his head to reveal the new bonded mark on his neck. There. There was that darkness again. “Harry is my soulbonded submissive. Anything that affects him affects my entire circle.”

Dumbledore’s jaw twitched. “Circle?”

“Harry let out a soulscream when his godfather died,” Theo explained, watching the man carefully for his reaction. He didn’t mention that they had indeed saved Sirius Black. That was for Harry to explain if he wanted to. “It pulled all of us to him. We have all completed our bonds to Harry.”

Even the most unobservant person would have been able to see the displeasure on Dumbledore’s face. “I see.” The man seemed to take a moment to collect himself. Or maybe he was trying to figure out what information he could give Theo that would get him what he wanted. Either way, it was almost a full minute before Dumbledore spoke again. “There is a prophesy,” he said slowly, “one that names Harry as being able to defeat Voldemort.It is best that he remain here to complete his education and get training.”

“Voldemorts dead,” Theo returned, having watched as Hadrian swiped the man’s head off of his shoulders. 

“It was believed he was dead thirteen years ago,” Dumbledore responded. “He went to extreme measures to make sure his death would not…remain. He will be back and he will come after Harry once again. If you want to keep your submissive safe, it is best that he remain.”

There were many growls at the man’s words and Theo couldn’t stop his own scowl. The old man should know better than try and manipulate those that could see through his games. “Is Harry aware of this prophesy?”

The look of false sorrow made Theo sick. “Alas, I believed it was best for him not to know. After tonights events, I have decided he should hear what was said.”

“Fine,” Theo agreed, taking a step away from the gate. “Harry is asleep at the moment. It was a tiring day. However, I know that he will want to see his friends and make sure they are alright. Me and mine will come to Hogwarts in two hours and you can reveal to us the prophesy. We will make a decision then.”

“Mr. Nott-”

“Two hours, Professor.” 

There was only the sound of the man apparating away when Theo turned back toward the manor.

Chapter Text

Theo’s mind worked frantically as they reentered Nott Manor. Many hurried toward him, asking who it had been and what they wanted. He held up a hand, feeling the beginning of a headache start behind his eyes. “It was the headmaster of our school,” he said, motioning toward Blaise and the still sleeping Harry. “He had some…things to say.” Not wanting to deal with it, Theo held out his hand for an information transfer. Quinn was the first to step forward. Theo saw his brows furrow as the information passed from person to person. Ilsa’s shoulders tightened when she finally saw the scene. “We need to leave but…”

“If there is a prophesy, we need to know what it says,” Bran spoke quietly, leaning heavily on Ethan. Theo’s eyes flickered toward the young dragel. “My family is nameless but their talents mostly lie in prophecies,” he admitted. “My mam might be able to help, well, yeah she probably could, but to hear it now would be best. Plus,” his eyes flickered toward Harry. “He’s not going to leave until he makes sure his friends are okay.”

Theo grimaced but knew the younger was correct. He might not know Harry as well as he would like, not yet, but he did know how close he was to his friends. He had seen that many of them were injured before he had followed Harry out of department of mysteries. He hadn’t cared much at the time but now, now he knew that it was going to be an inconvenience. “Blaise, can you get your vaults transferred to Nevarah within the next hour?”

Blaise grimaced. “Maybe? I have most of it set up because I was going to leave after we graduated anyway, but I thought I’d have more time.”

Theo nodded in understanding. His would definitely take more than an hour. “I suppose we’ll have to make a return trip. We’ll just have to be careful about it.”

“Harry’s would need moved as well,” Bran cut in. “But I don’t think he’d agree to that. Not yet.”

Theo looked at the other in confusion and Bran sighed. “Touch based ability. I see everything a person has lived when I make skin contact. Harry and I had to touch to bond.” He shrugged his shoulders. “It’s still processing so I don’t know everything. But I do know how important his friends are to him. He’s not going to leave until he sees them.”

Again, Theo nodded in agreement. He made a note to speak with Bran later, both about Harry and about their own bonding. His memories weren’t exactly pleasant and he didn’t want to give the boy any discomfort if he could help it. “I’ll gather what I can and close the manor. Blaise, you do the same. Return here in an hour. We’ll visit Hogwarts and play the headmasters game. For now. After we make sure that Harry’s friends are okay, we’ll leave.”

“And if Harry disagrees?” Hadrian questioned lowly.

Theo’s eyes flickered toward the sleeping submissive. “He might. But I think he’ll at least go initially. It’s getting him to stay for any period of time that’s going to be difficult.”

Bran nodded his own agreement. “He feels guilty for pulling everyone here and away from their lives,” he admitted and received growls in response. He held up a hand. “I know, but guilt is…something to deal with later. He’ll go just so everyone can go home.”

Theo sighed and nodded. “Alright. Alec? Everything okay?”

“Still asleep and alive. So yes.”

“Noted,” Theo quirked. His eyes flickered toward Blaise. “I’d like at least one person to go with you.”

Blaise rolled his eyes. “My mother won’t care either way. You know that. She has her manor in Italy. I just need to go close up Zabini manor and I can at least withdraw a substantial amount for now. I don’t need a babysitter.”

“Still,” Theo sighed. “Dumbledore saw you and it’s possible he has people watching. I don’t know what he’s planning but I wouldn’t put it past him to do something to try and get Harry back under his control. Please take someone.”

Blaise scowled, then blinked in surprise when two arms were thrown over his shoulders. “We’ll go!” Minh chirped, sending a sharp grin in Blaise’s direction. “We both want to see a bit more of this world, anyway.” Idan nodded in agreement but didn’t say anything. Blaise just rolled his eyes before shaking off their arms and making his way toward the fireplace.

“Fine. Just give me a minute to change the wards and then come through.” He threw a handful of floo powder into the fireplace before disappearing in green fire.

There was a yell of shock and Theo winced. Right. No floo in Nevarah. He held out his hand to Minh, who had been staring at the fireplace with a dropped jaw, and the man quickly accepted the transfer. Understanding blossomed across his features. “Interesting,” he muttered. “Idan, look at this!”

The two were quick to give the information to others in the room as Theo turned toward Ilsa. “I can withdraw some funds but it’s going to take some time to get us a place that caters to everyone,” he muttered lowly, the headache growing as more issues began to flood through his mind. “And Bran’s right. Harry’s not going to go without a fight.”

“I can’t help with Harry,” Ilsa stated bluntly, putting her hands on her hips. “If he’s smart he’ll understand what’s happening and not fight you on it. As for the housing, you can stay at the beach house until you find something. That should even please your merrow.”

Said merrow shot them a glare but didn’t protest.

Theo nodded and rolled his shoulders. “I’m going to the bank,” he stated loudly. “Keep watch here. No one should be able to get through the wards but it’s best to be prepared.” Hadrian nodded his understanding but motioned toward Devrim. Theo blinked as the man stepped up to his side, clearly intending on accompanying him. “Alright,” he said, slightly amused. He supposed he deserved that after demanding Blaise have people with him.

Dealing with the goblins was never a pleasant affair but they were particularly stingy that day. Theo supposed it had to do with the amount he was pulling out of their bank. He bluntly stated that he would be using the services in Nevarah and would return to complete the transfer paperwork when he was able. His account manager was especially ferocious. Afterall, transferring all of his assets meant the Nott vaults would be closed and the goblin would no longer have the esteemed position. Theo made sure to get an account of everything he currently had in his possession. Just in case.

He didn’t mention Harry.

When he returned, he wasn’t surprised to see Blaise already there. He would have had an easier time of it, considering his mother was staying and the only thing Blaise had access to was the funds left to him  by his father. Theo had barely stepped through the floo when he was knocked back by a lithe body. “We’re going to Hogwarts? Did Dumbledore say anything about Ron? Hermione? Neville? Luna?”

Theo wrapped the submissive in his arms and let out a calming purr. He glanced at Alec over his bonded’s shoulder and the merrow shrugged, completely unrepentant. “Yes, we’re going to Hogwarts. Professor Dumbledore want’s to speak with you. After that, we can check on your friends. However,” he took a step back and gazed into the bright green eyes. “After we make sure they are okay, we need to leave the realm. Even if Dumbledore smoothed things over with the minister for the moment, it won’t last. Dragel’s are considered dark creatures here and we will be hunted if we stay. Do you understand?”

Harry looked reluctant. “But…the war…”

“I don’t know what is happening with the war,” Theo said slowly, “or your part in it. I suppose I will find out soon enough. But we need to leave.” He held up a hand as Harry began to protest. “At least for a few days so we can get our bearings and everyone can make arrangements.” No need to admit that a few days would be much, much longer for anyone on earth. Harry blinked at the words and glanced around. Theo saw the moment the guilt hit the submissive. He internally sighed. Yes, he would need to deal with that sooner rather than later, but for the moment, it worked in his favor. “Many have jobs and families they need to report to. It would not be possible for us to be separated by realms at the moment. Not until we are more settled.”

Harry still seemed hesitant but he slowly nodded. “I, yeah, alright. A few days. But only after we check on everyone!”

Theo nodded and pulled the stubborn submissive against his chest once again. “Agreed. Now,” he glanced around and took stock. “Is everyone ready? It’s a bit of a walk once we arrive.”

“We will remain with the hellhound,” Ilsa said, gesturing to those that had followed family and friends. “When you decide to return to Nevarah, send a message. We will meet you there.” Her eyes also said to let her know if anything went wrong. Theo was sure she and the rest would be there in seconds to help. Theo nodded, showing his understanding, the round up all of his circle so he could portal them outside the gates of Hogwarts.

Theo saw many exchange glances at the sight of the castle. Hadrian and Devrim in particular seemed to tense the closer they went. “Mister Nott,” Professor Snape greeted lowly as the group stepped toward the main doors. His eyes flickered around the group before landing on Harry. Harry tensed at Theo’s side. “Potter. I should have known you’d be at the center of this mess.” Snape didn’t seem concerned at the multiple growls he received at the words. “The headmaster is waiting.” He snapped, turning on his heel and leading into the castle. Theo bit back a sigh at the murderous looks his head of house was receiving. He knew the man had some issues with Harry but did he have to be so obvious about it when they were so on edge?

The group followed Professor Snape through the castle and up to the headmasters office. Theo noticed the scowl the man wore when he noticed the group following after Harry. A scowl that was quickly replaced by a kind smile when Harry himself looked at him. “Harry, my boy! I hope you are feeling better.”

Harry nodded. “I am, sir. Thanks.” He shifted. “Is everyone okay? Ron and Hermione?”

The smile fell. “All are recovering. Some will take longer than others. Of course, Sirius is…” the man trailed off. Harry’s brows furrowed and he opened his mouth, most likely to tell the man that Sirius was fine, but Theo squeezed his hand. Harry’s mouth snapped shut. “I don’t want you to blame yourself, my boy. It could have happened to anyone.”

“Sir?”

“The link you share with Voldemort. He was able to manipulate it and give you a false vision. Sirius wouldn’t blame you, Harry. It’s important you understand that.”

Theo bit back a snarl but didn’t protest when others in his circle didn’t do the same. The man was manipulating their bonded right in front of him, feeding into the guilt. No wonder Bran said it was something they were going to have to work on. If Harry’s conversations with Dumbledore went like this on a regular basis, there was no telling what sort of things the man had implanted in their submissives mind.

Theo wondered if Quinn knew of a good mind healer.

“I…”

“Now, we must discuss some important matters,” Dumbledore stated, folding his fingers together and gazing at Harry sternly. He hadn’t even looked in the others direction. “Mr. Nott implied that you might not return to Hogwarts. I must insist that you do so.”

“But…Voldemort is dead…”

“He’s not,” Dumbledore countered. “I’m sorry to say that Voldemort has found a way to return. Again. You see, there are ways for a person to become immortal. Or close to it. Voldemort implemented one of these methods. Though yours managed to kill on version of the man tonight,” he nodded in Hadrian’s direction, “he will be able to return yet again.”

“And how is that Harry’s problem?” Theo questioned, ready for the man to get to the point.

Dumbledore hesitated, then let out a sigh. “I must stress how delicate this situation is. I did not want to burden Harry any further than he already had been. However, I suppose circumstances have changed.” He gazed at Harry for a moment longer, then nodded his head. “Yes, they have changed. Years ago, there was a prophesy. This prophesy was about you, Harry. It states that you would be the only one to defeat Voldemort.”

Bran twitched and Theo eyed the teen from the corner of his eye. He wondered what he was thinking. He certainly knew more about prophecies than anyone else in the room – even Dumbledore. No matter what the old man thought.

“Me?” Harry squeaked.

Dumbledore nodded and pulled out a glass orb. “Are you certain you want…everyone to hear this, Harry?”

Theo’s eyes narrowed as the question was met with snarls. You did not keep something like that a secret from your circle. Especially if it is about the submissive. Harry even seemed taken aback at the question. “I – yes. They can hear it.”

Dumbledore looked disappointed. “Very well.”

"The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches... born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies... and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives... the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies...."

Theo’s arms wrapped around Harry as the submissive cowed against his chest. Alec was at their side in an instant, his own hand on Harry’s shoulder as Hadrian stepped in their eyeline. Bran crossed his arms over his chest, his eyes narrowed. Yes, they needed to speak to the younger dragel’s family as soon as they could.

“So you see,” Dumbledore said sadly. “I must insist that Harry remain here and continue his schooling. Voldemort is aware of the prophesy and will not stop his attacks.”

“We will take care of this Voldemort,” Hadrian cut in lowly, his hand falling onto the sword at his hip. “He will not be a problem.”

“I must insist-“

“We will discuss it,” Theo cut in, planning on doing no such thing. “For now, Harry want’s to see his friends. We will be heading to the hospital wing.”

“Mr. Nott-“

“We will speak with you again soon, headmaster.” Theo had no such intention of doing so. They were going to see Harry’s friends and then they were going to get the hell out of there.

Chapter Text

Harry led the way toward the hospital wing, desperately trying to put the words Dumbledore had spoken out of his mind. A prophesy. There was a prophesy that he would have to fight Voldemort. That neither of them could survive while the other was alive. He had thought that Voldemort was dead, but apparently there was a way that he cold come back. He was going to come back and, when he did, he was going to come after Harry.

Which meant he was going to come after anyone that Harry cared about.

He swallowed hard and glanced behind him, glancing from one person to the other. He didn’t know them well. He hadn’t really even had a chance to get to know them all one on one. But they were here, they were his bonded. He had called to them because they were his soulmates.

He was going to get them all killed.

“Whatever you’re thinking, stop it,” Alec chided, reaching out and tugging harshly on Harry’s ear. Harry hissed and batted the hand away. “Prophesies are in no way as simple as that old man made it seem. Just ask your consort,” he said, nodding his head toward Bran. The ‘consort’ in question sent him a glare. “And you aren’t alone in this. Your Ace beheaded the man once, I’m sure he’d love to do it again.” The merrow gave Harry a bloodthirsty grin. “If not, I’d be happy to help.”

“Not necessary,” Hadrian commented lowly, his fists clenching at his sides. “We’ll take care of it.”

Minh tossed his hair over his shoulder. “Doesn’t seem that difficult. Of course, we all know there’s more to it than he said, right?” He shrugged. “Whatever. We can get the information one way or another.”

Harry blinked at the man and slowly turned to face forward once more. More than what he said? Prophesies aren’t simple? Ask the consort…? He felt like he was slowly drowning and he had no idea how he was going to end up keeping his head above the water. What was he even supposed to do with all of this information?

“Harry,” Theo’s voice was low and firm, “concentrate on seeing your friends. We will focus on what Dumbledore has said at another time.”

Harry scowled and wanted to protest. If they were all in danger because of him, that was something that they needed to figure out now, but they had reached the medical wing and Theo was quick to push open the door and step inside.

“Oh, Harry dear! There you are!” Harry’s shoulders slumped forward in relief at the familiar voice. He turned toward the woman hurrying toward him, preparing himself for the hug he usually received, but Molly Weasley came to an abrupt halt a little more than an arms length away from him. Her eyes flickered from Harry to the men standing behind him. Her frame tensed. “What happened?”

“Harry!” Mr. Weasley started behind his wife, only to stop as well. “Oh. Well,” he cleared his throat and squared his shoulders. Harry stared at the two helplessly. What was going on?

“Mr. Weasley? Mrs. Weasley? Is everyone okay? Are they hurt?” Harry asked frantically, taking a step forward in an attempt to see further into the hospital wing. Mr. Weasley’s hand snapped out and grasped Mrs. Weasley’s shoulder, pulling her back abruptly. Harry froze.

“Everyone will be fine,” Mrs. Weasley told him. She avoided his gaze and rung her hands together. “It appears that more happened than we were told. Did you, um, go through some changes, dear?”

Harry’s brows furrowed and he glanced behind him to make sure his wings were still hidden. No, no wings. He glanced down. No claws, either. So how? “I, uh, yeah. Sirius,” Harry cleared his throat and glanced toward Theo. The Slytherin slowly shook his head. Harry had no idea why Theo didn’t want anyone to know that Sirius was alive but he would trust him. For now. “He fell. And I just…screamed and then there was pain and all this light…” Harry trailed off and Mrs. Weasley’s skin paled.

“I…see,” she cleared her throat. “A dragel inheritance? That is, well,” she didn’t finish her sentence. “And a scream? I assume that means these are your bonded?”

Something in Harry’s chest warmed at the words. “Yes! They are my – wait, Mrs. Weasley, is everyone okay?”

Mrs. Weasley forced a smile on her face and something inside Harry flinched. “They will be fine. Ron and Neville are currently sleeping and should be recovered when they wake. Luna is with her father at the moment. Hermione has been healed and is waiting to be discharged. Ginny just took a potion to help with some of her injuries.”

Relief swept through Harry and he felt whatever had been holding him together slowly start to unwind. He slumped and would have fallen if multiple arms hadn’t reached out to hold him up. “I knew you didn’t sleep long enough,” Theo muttered by Harry’s right ear. Alec snorted in agreement. Quinn was instantly in front of him, his teal eyes narrowed. “Now that you are assured everyone is alright, may we return home so you can sleep?”

Home? Hogwarts was his home.

“No,” Harry denied, forcing himself to stand once more and shake off the arms surrounding him. “I need to talk to them. To apologize and…and tell them what’s going on. I’m not leaving yet.”

Theo let out an exasperated sigh but nodded. “Fine. Bed, then.”

“…what?”

“You’re exhausted,” Theo replied firmly. “You can sleep here in the hospital wing until your friends wake up.” His bonded seemed to like that idea because they all ushered him to an open bed. Ironically, it was the same bed Harry usually found himself in after he was injured.

“I need to make sure-“

“I’m sure Quinn will look your friends over as well,” Theo cut him off, shooting the healer a questioning look. Quinn nodded. “He’ll make sure that they’re alright. Now, just sleep.”

Harry scowled and fell back against the bed. He stared up the ceiling. He wasn’t sure how he was supposed to sleep, no matter how tired he was. Not with his friends being injured. Not with the scare of almost losing Sirius. Not with the prophesy. How was he supposed to handle all of this? Especially with all of his new bonded? Bonded that he had practically destroyed the lives of. How horrible it must be, to be stuck with him and all of the baggage he had.

“Sleep,” Bran muttered, crawling into the bed beside Harry and wrapping his arms around him. Harry blinked in surprise at the younger teen, but quickly pulled him against him. “Quinn will make sure they’re okay. Everyone will make sure that we’re safe. You need to sleep for now.”

Harry sighed and nodded. Fine. He supposed he could at least try.

****                     *****                   *****                   *****                   ****                     *****

Theo eyed Harry and Bran as the two drifted off. He was glad that Harry was able to get a bit more sleep, but it was making him anxious that they were still there. He had hoped it would be a quick visit, then they could get out of Hogwarts and Nevarah as quickly as possible.

“He needs to eat,” Ethan muttered, stepping up beside Theo. “I couldn’t get him to take anything but blood when he woke.”

Theo sighed. “Hopefully we can get him to eat something when he wakes up. I have a feeling he won’t be touching anything until he talks to his friends.”

Ethan grimaced but nodded. “Did you notice the reactions?” Ariki questioned lowly, his eyes fixated on the Weasley’s. Theo nodded, his hands tightening into fists. He had seen. He shouldn’t be surprised. The Weasley’s were known for being a light family and blood-traitors on top of it. He had heard that they had taken Harry in and had hoped that they wouldn’t let their…morals leak into their relationship with the submissive. Apparently, he had been giving them too much credit.

He hoped further interactions went better.

“We all did,” Alec muttered from where he had positioned himself in front of Harry and Bran’s bed. Indeed, the rest of their bonded had spread out but were all keeping a sharp eye on the other people in the hospital wing. Blaise was positioned next to the door, Wilkh at the foot of Harry’s bed, Minh was closest to the Weasley’s with a disarming grin on his face. Devrim was trailing after Quinn. Hadrian was leaning against the wall behind Theo…where was Idan?

“He stepped into the hall,” Ariki said lowly. “Making sure no one else comes in.”

Theo nodded sharply. Good. The last thing they needed was Dumbledore to appear when Harry was sleeping and vulnerable.

It took another hour for an exhausted Quinn to make his way toward them. Theo instinctively reached out, pulling the slightly smaller man against him and taking on his weight. Theo grimaced. Quinn had already been exhausted and this just added to it. He shouldn’t have offered his services without checking in on him first. “Alright?”

Quinn’s right hand wrapped around Theo’s wrist. They’ll all be fine. I was able to speed things up a bit. Your medi-witch wasn’t very happy that I invaded her space.

Theo snorted, not even slightly surprised. “Any idea how much longer it will be?”

An hour? Maybe two for the redheaded boy.

Theo nodded sharply and slowly pulled Quinn toward the bed. “Then sleep. We’ll wake you when we do Harry.”

Quinn didn’t protest. He quickly slid into the bed beside Harry, leaving the submissive sandwiched between him and Bran. He closed his eyes and was out quickly. Theo shook his head. Yes, definitely exhausted.

It was a little over an hour when they woke the three, Harry’s friends having woke a few minutes before. “Treasure, time to get up,” Theo murmured softly, brushing Harry’s hair from his eyes. Said eyes blinked up at him in incomprehension for a moment, before understanding flooded them and he sat up abruptly. He scrambled over a flustered Quinn and ran toward the beds where his friends were all sitting up.

“Harry! You’re alright!” Hermione Granger sighed, holding out her arms. Harry dove into her side, hugging her tightly.

“I wasn’t the one hurt,” Harry protested.

“You didn’t exactly look healthy, mate,” Neville Logbottom commented. Theo held back a snort. That was putting it lightly.

“I’m fine,” Harry protested, pulling away from Hermione and letting out a long breath as he looked at all of his friends. “I – I’m so sorry about –“

“Nope,” Neville cut him off.

“But-“

“Harry James Potter,” Hermione growled. “You do not have anything to apologize for. We all went with you willingly and would do it again. Now,” her stern expression faded and was replaced by sorrow. “I’m sorry about Sirius, Harry.”

Harry avoided her gaze. “Uh, yeah.”

Theo bit back a sigh. He wasn’t going to fool anyone with that and it was all of their best interest if people were not aware that Sirius was currently being healed at Nott Manor. “I’m glad you’re feeling well, Granger,” Theo cut in, stepping up beside Harry and placing an arm around his waist.

Hermione blinked. “Nott?”

“What the hell is he doing here?!” Ron Weasley snarled, his face turning an obnoxious shade of red.

“Well,” Mrs. Weasley started, fluttering about her children’s beds, and pulling at the blankets. “It seems Harry came into his inheritance during your little…adventure. The danger he was in brought his soulbonded to him. Mr. Nott is one of those bonded.”

Harry ducked his head as his friends mouths dropped open. Theo groaned lowly as he saw the inquisitive look on Hermione’s face. He’d seen it enough over the years in class to know that she was going to start throwing out questions and accusations that could quite possible offend some of his bonded. And, depending on the bonded, that would not go well.

“Soulbonded? Congratulations!” Neville smiled. “We’ll need to do introductions sometime soon.”

“I-yeah.”

“Soulbonded?” Hermione started in.

“Soulmates,” Harry muttered, a flush spreading across his face.

Hermione tilted her head. “More than one? How does that work? Do you choose who you want to be with?”

“I…no. All of us. A circle,” Harry said, shrugging his shoulders as Hermione’s eyes widened.

“Harry-“

“You’ll be very happy,” Luna commented in her usual dreamy tone. Theo and Blaise exchanged a glance. Neither had ever spoken to the girl but they had heard enough to be weary. Still, Harry seemed to care about her.

“Are you all insane?” Ron Weasley snapped. “He’s a Slytherin! And you mean a creature inheritance? What type of creature? And they’re all guys! What is Harry supposed to do with that?!”

Theo scowled furiously and many of his bonded shifted their positions around him. Harry placed a soft hand on Theo’s arm. “That doesn’t bother me, Ron. And yes, a creature inheritance. Dragel.”

Ron yelped and pushed back further in his bed. “Dragel’s are dark creatures, Harry! They use dark magic!”

“Dragels are only considered dark creatures in Britain,” Theo commented.

“yeah, well, we’re in Britain!”

“Dumbledore can fix it,” Ginny Weasley fiercely said. “Harry, don’t worry! He can fix it!”

There were more growls and hisses as Harry stared at her with unblinking eyes. “I don’t want to fix it.”

“But-“

“Are you going to Nevarah?” Neville asked, throwing a stern look at the girl Weasley that had her mouth snapping closed. Theo titled his head. Well, wasn’t that interesting.

“I – uh, I don’t know,” Harry muttered and Theo’s hand tightened. He thought they had already discussed this. Was Harry already having second thoughts?

“You will,” came Luna’s comment. “You will and you will be very happy, Harry. Please let yourself be happy.” Theo saw Bran’s eyes narrow thoughtfully as he stared at the girl. Great, another thing that they were going to need to discuss.

“I – alright, Luna. Thanks.”

“Trust me, Harry. Everything is as it is meant to be.”

Chapter Text

Theo should have known it wasn’t going to be easy to get Harry to leave England. He had thought they had already discussed this and agreed that it was best to go to Nevarah, but here they were.

“We can’t just leave! Not after hearing about the prophesy!” Harry argued yet again, his hands on his hips as he glared up at the alpha. Theo grimaced and sent a side glance toward his bonded, who were all avoiding his gaze. An unhappy submissive made for an unhappy circle and the fact that they were so newly formed was not helping matters in any way. “We’d be leaving everyone in danger! My friends! We need to stay-“

“Harry,” Theo finally snapped, cutting the submissive off and causing him to snap his mouth closed. He fixed the green eyed boy with a firm stare. “My first priority is you. It always will be. Things here are dangerous for you. Dangerous for the entire circle. I am not saying that we are going to abandon everyone.” Though I wouldn’t be opposed. “I am saying that we need to go to Nevarah to regroup. Many here need to speak to their families. You have people to help you fight now. It is not all up to you. It should never have been in the first place.”  Harry’s jaw clenched in his stubbornness and Theo bit back a sigh. Just what had happened to his submissive that he thought the entire war rested solely on his shoulders? He thought back to his conversation with Dumbledore and scowled. That man had a lot to answer for.

“But the prophesy-“

“Oh, stop it with the damn prophesy!” Bran finally snapped. Both Theo and Harry turned toward the younger teen, blinking in surprise at the furious look on his face. “Prophesies are in no way as easy to interpret as that old man made it seem. And we only heard about it from him. We don’t have the actual prophesy to listen to. It could have been changed-“

“Dumbledore wouldn’t!”

“He would,” Bran responded. “You forget that I’ve seen your memories, Harry. All of them. I know that you trust the man but I can honestly say that I don’t. My family is well known throughout all realms for their prophetic abilities. Before we jump into this thing, can’t we talk to them and see what they think? Isn’t that reasonable?”

Theo bit back a smile at the flabbergasted look on Harry’s face. It was worrying that Bran had to point out how completely Harry trusted Dumbledore and opposed the thought. It made Theo wonder yet again just what Bran had seen in Harry’s memories. “I – but what if something happens while we’re gone?” Harry finally asked, his voice smaller and less confident than it had been only moments before.

“Time is different in Nevarah,” Ariki reminded Harry softly, pulling the submissive into a hug. Harry trilled lowly and buried his face in the beta’s chest. “It’s more likely that something would happen if we stayed here to prepare. We’d have more time if we go.”

Harry’s shoulders drooped at the reminder and Theo felt a pang of sympathy. He had nothing here to stay for, neither did Blaise. The closest friend either of them had was one another. But Harry had friends that had literally followed him into battle that he was worried about. However, Ariki was correct that they would be much safer and have more time to strategize if they left for Nevarah. “Alright,” Harry muttered and Theo saw the way his bonded all seemed to relax at the agreement. Harry seemed to notice as well and a slightly shamed look crossed his face. Theo sighed. They were really going to have to work on Harry’s savior complex. Not everything was his fault and he was not responsible for everyone’s happiness.

“Blaise and I have already gathered what we can from our estates,” Theo informed him lowly. “We’ll return at a later date to finish the transfer. I know the Potter family has a large estate. Do you want to go to Gringotts before we leave or wait until we return? I’m sure between Blaise and I we have enough to get us settled for the time being.”

Harry pulled away from Ariki and frowned at Theo. “Large estate? I mean, I have a vault my parents left me and I guess it would be enough to last me awhile if I was careful. Not that I don’t want to help! I mean, we can definitely use it, I just don’t think there’s as much as you think.”

Theo couldn’t help the shocked looked he threw in Blaise’s direction. The dark skinned teen’s eyes widened. “Harry, the Potter’s were a greatly wealthy family. There are sure to be holdings… the vault you’re talking about is probably the trust vault since you’re underage. Did no one explain this to you?”

Harry sucked in a deep breath and wrapped his arms around himself tightly. Ethan was by his side in an instant, cooing soothingly and rubbing a hand up and down Harry’s back. “I – no. No one ever said anything. You mean there’s probably more? Maybe something from my parents?”

Theo couldn’t stop the groan this time and he pinched the bridge of his nose. “Right. So, this is going to take much longer than the time that we have. I think it best that we visit Gringotts at a later date once things have settled a bit and we do a full inheritance test. That way we’ll have more time to sort through everything. Is that alright?”

Harry bit his lip but slowly nodded his head. “Yes. I mean, I’d like to know more about my family but I guess it makes sense to wait a bit longer. It isn’t going to go anywhere, right?”

“Right,” Theo agreed, already calculating how soon they could feasibly return to England. “And don’t forget that you have familial seals on you as well. That means there is possibly family in Nevarah as well. We can start looking there once we arrive. Maybe that will give us some more answers.”

Harry perked up at the news and he nodded his head. Theo smiled, glad that Harry was at least feeling a bit more comfortable. “Alright. I suppose we’re mostly ready-“ He cut himself off and let out a curse. “We forgot to grab our things from Hogwarts.” He really did not want to go back to the school. He, like Bran, did not trust Dumbledore and was honestly surprised that they had managed to leave as easily as they had. He thought that had to do with the man believing Harry would talk them into staying after he told them about the prophesy. In that respect, he had trained him well. He just hadn’t factored in the fact that Harry would be so closely tied to his bonded already.

“Oh, I can help with that!” Harry said. “Dobby!”

There was a loud pop and then one of the oddest house elves Harry had ever seen appeared in front of them. Theo’s eyes widened and he shot a glance toward Idan, who had stiffened at the appearance of the being. It was known that high elves and house elves were distant cousins and the high elves did not appreciate how the house elves were treated. Theo had no idea that Harry had a house elf tied to him. This was bound to become an issue.

“Harry Potter sir!” the house elf, Dobby, shouted before launching himself at the submissive. Many of the bonded yelled out but Harry just laughed and hugged the smaller being. “Mr. Harry Potter sir is okay! Dobby heard that he was hurt!” Dobby stepped back and blinked his large eyes. “Oh, Mr. Harry Potter went through an inheritance! Is Mr. Harry Potter going to Nevarah?”

Harry’s jaw dropped and many of the dragel let out low chuckles. “You can tell?”

Dobby nodded frantically. “Mr. Harry Potter sir should go!” His eyes narrowed and his voice dropped low. “There are bad things happening and Mr. Harry Potter is safer in Nevarah!”

Harry grimaced and nodded. “Yeah, we’re going to go. I, uh, had a favor? My trunk and Hedwig are still at Hogwarts. And Theo and Blaise’s stuff is there too. Can you bring it to us so we can leave? But not if it gets you in any trouble!”

“No trouble!” Dobby squeaked. “I will bring Mr. Harry Potter sirs things and owl! And the snakey’s belongings as well!” With a pop, he was gone.

There was a moment of uncomfortable silence, then Idan cleared his throat. “Friend of yours?” His tone was conversational but Theo noticed how his fists were tightened at his side. Minh was leaning against him, his hand slowly rubbing the man’s back. Theo grimaced.

But Harry just beamed. “Yeah! Dobby saved my life a couple of years ago and I managed to free him. He works at Hogwarts now. He’s the reason I survived the second task in fourth year,” he told Theo. “I had no idea how I was supposed to breath underwater for an hour and he brought me Gillyweed.”

Theo blinked at the information and saw Idan’s posture relax from the corner of his eye. “How did he save you?”

Harry’s smile fell a bit. “Oh, he found out that Lucius Malfoy was going to open the Chamber of Secrets and target me. Dobby tried all year to save me…but went about it in a way that actually made it worse? Sort of? He’s the one that charmed that bludger to attack me. He thought if I got hurt, I’d leave Hogwarts. I made him promise not to try and save my life again.”

Great. Yet another thing to worry about.

No one had a chance to respond to that before Dobby was back with three trunks and an owl. “Hedwig!” Harry said happily as the owl flew and landed on his shoulder. Theo couldn’t help but smile at the happiness he saw on his submissive’s face.

“Mr. Harry Potter sir should go now,” Dobby said, his previous eccentric energy dulled and his eyes wide. “Mr. Dumbledore was talking to minister. They is looking for Mr. Harry Potter and saying he is a dark creature! They had posters! Mr. Harry Potter sir needs to leave!”

Theo cursed and checked his wards. He had no doubt that the ministry would be arriving soon and he would prefer they be long gone by then. “Thank you, Dobby,” he said to the elf.

“Mr. Harry Potter sir’s snakey is welcome! If yous need anything else, just call Dobby!”

“We will,” Theo promised and the house elf beamed before disappearing once more. “Well,” he said, turning toward his bonded. He waved his wand, shrinking all three trunks and placing them in his pocket. “Shall we leave?”

Chapter Text

Harry could honestly say that traveling by portal was not his favorite way to travel. Though, most magical travel wasn’t really something he enjoyed. He stumbled as his feet hit the ground and couldn’t stop the grateful chirp that escaped as a strong arm wrapped around his waist, keeping him on his feet. “Thanks,” he blushed. He received a slightly wicked grin in response.

“Anytime,” Blaise responded, squeezing him slightly before letting him go.

“Welcome,” a familiar voice greeted them. Harry turned and saw Ilsa standing with a large group of people slightly behind her. He inched backward, not knowing who these people were and not really comfortable with their attention being on him. “I expected you days ago.”

“We had some complications,” Theo said smoothly and Harry felt himself flush. His arguments against leaving and his insistence to see his friends were those complications. Still, he didn’t think he was wrong. He wasn’t going to leave without making sure his friends were okay and he still wasn’t completely okay with them being here. But he had other people to think about and all of them seemed to think this was where they needed to be for the moment. So, he supposed he would agree. For now.

“I assume those complications have been taken care of,” another woman stated. Bran let out a surprised cry and ran forward, throwing himself at the woman. “Hello, dear one.”

Theo’s slow blink was the only thing that showed his surprise at the actions of their youngest bonded. “Not completely but they can rest for now. Theodore Gorgens-Nott, alpha.”

The woman nodded and introduced herself. Oh, she was Bran’s mother. Harry shrank back even further, hiding himself behind Blaise’s broader frame. The Joker’s lips twitched in amusement but he accommodated Harry by moving further in front of him. “Allow me to introduce our submissive, Harry Potter,” Theo stated, ruining all of Harry’s hard work. Blaise chuckled lowly under his breath as Ethan wrapped an arm around Harry’s shoulder to guide him forward. Harry glanced up at the intimidating woman and attempted a shaky smile. Did she hate him for pulling her young son into this mess?

“I see. How old are you, dear?” she questioned.

“Um, fifteen,” Harry responded shakily.

“Oh, you poor thing! Quinn, I need details! Have you completed a full health check?” Another woman cut in and Harry suddenly found himself wrapped in a strong hug by yet another woman. Harry saw Quinn shoot the woman look that had her sighing deeply. “Yes, yes, I understand. I’m Surajini Kalzik, Quinn’s mother. I’m also a healer-“ She cut off and sent a blushing Quinn a sharp glance. “I will do what needs to be done! I understand that you are all tired but we will get something scheduled!”

“They do need rest after what they have been through,” Ilsa cut in smoothly. “I have had the beach house prepared until they are able to find something of their own.” Harry bit off the protest that was rising in his throat. He didn’t understand why they would need something of their own. They weren’t going to stay here that long.

Sarajini nodded slightly toward Ilsa. “I see. Thank you for your hospitality. They are welcome to stay in one of our guest houses as well.”

Quinn waved his arms at his mother but she ignored him as Ilsa nodded in response. Harry had a feeling that he had just missed something. “Thank you both,” Theo said lightly. “I believe we will retire to the beach house for now. Quinn will get in touch with you soon to schedule those appointments,” he said to the submissive healer. “And I will happily come with Bran to visit you soon-“

Bran’s mother waved a hand. “It is difficult for me to be fully in this plain. I did so just to see all of you. I will let Bran know when I can be here again,” her eyes flickered over the group before landing on Harry and her lips pursed. “I believe there are things we need to speak of. But for now, it can wait.”

Theo hesitated and Harry swallowed hard. Hadn’t Bran said something about his family and prophecies? Shouldn’t they talk to her now? They should find out all they could quickly so they could get back. He didn’t want anyone to get hurt because he was playing around while they were fighting Voldemort. “I-“

“We understand,” Theo quicky cut him off. “Thank you for coming to meet us.”

Harry growled lowly at the brush off but Theo reached out to pull him against his side. “Now is not the time,” he murmured. “We’re all tired and still trying to get everything worked out. Let us rest, treasure.”

Harry instantly felt guilt well up as he glanced at his circle. Right. He had been sleeping on and off since the ministry but his bonded hadn’t. “I will come see you in a couple of days,” Ilsa warned Theo. Well, to Harry it sounded like a warning. Theo nodded at the words and gathered everything together. Then, he said those dreadful words to portal them to their new destination. Harry felt the breath catch in his throat and his body ache as he slammed into the ground at their beach house.

He really hated magical travel.

“Is this a thing we should be aware of?” Blaise laughed as he reached down to pull Harry to his feet. The brunette grimaced.

“Unfortunately. The only form of magical travel where I don’t end up on the ground is on a broom.”

“A broom?” Bran questioned, “Why would you be on a broom?”

Harry blinked at the odd question but saw the confused looks his other bonded were exchanging. Theo chuckled. “In the wizarding world, they enchant brooms to fly to use for travel or to play sports. Harry is very good at flying on a broom.”

“Brooms? Flying?” Ethan muttered. “Sports?”

“We’ll need to find out more about that,” Minh chirped. “Sounds interesting!”

“Sounds idiotic,” Idan responded.

“I can teach you to fly using your wings,” Ariki cut in as Harry turned toward the gheyo in protest at the words. Harry’s attention was instantly drawn toward the beta. He could learn to fly on his own? Without a broom? He nodded frantically and Ariki laughed. “Good! That’s actually what I do. I teach people to fly with their wings.”

“That’s brilliant!” Harry blurted. He whirled to stare at Theo. “Did you hear that? Do you know how to fly?”

Theo’s lips quirked and he ran a hand through Harry’s messy hair. “I learned a few years ago. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.” He looked up at the beach house that Harry hadn’t paid any attention to until now. “We should go in and make sure we have everything we need. Ilsa says she got it prepared but she’s a gheyo and their needs are a bit…”

“Minimum?” Ethan cut in, already striding toward the house with purposeful steps. “I’ll get started. You two should get some rest.” Harry frowned at the words. What two? He had slept already. It was the others that needed sleep! He glanced around and frowned when he realized a good portion of his new circle were missing.

“Gheyo’s have their own way of establishing hierarchy,” Bran murmured lowly. When Harry frowned at him in confusion, the younger dragel continued. “Fighting and sex.” Harry instantly felt his face flush. Bran chuckled. “They’re most likely off getting that all…done so they can be settled. It being left open like it was makes things murky and can be dangerous.” Harry nodded, wanting this conversation to be over. Bran chuckled.

“I need to return to court and let everyone know where I am,” Alec told them, already moving toward the ocean. He paused briefly to tug on Harry’s ear before he continued on. “I’ll have some very angry people coming after me if I don’t.”

“Just be back by dinner, if you can,” Theo responded. “I’d like us all to be here for the night.”

Alec waved a hand and Harry watched him disappear into the water. He felt a slight tug in his chest. He wasn’t sure he liked so many of his bonded being away from him. He swallowed and shook his head. No. They all had lives that he had already disrupted. He wasn’t going to push it by keeping them cooped up with him. They had their own things to do.

“Actually, anyone that needs to meet with family or their jobs can do so. Again, I just ask that you return by dinner tonight,” Theo continued. Harry bit back a grimace. Right. They’d be fine. It was fine.

Ariki sighed and pulled Harry into a hug. “I need to go see my family before they show up here in force,” he told the submissive. “They don’t really talk to mom much at the moment but I’m sure at least Bahn knows that someone is staying at the beach house. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Harry nodded against the beta’s shoulder. The beta held him for a moment longer before pulling away and going to speak to Theo. The alpha nodded in response and then the beta was gone.

Bran had already hurried after Ethan and disappeared into the beach house. Harry started that way as well but stopped when a large hand gripped his own. I need to go to the clinic and let them know what happened. I’ll be back as soon as I can. Harry nodded in understanding as Quinn disappeared. He wrapped his arms around his stomach. He didn’t like this. Not at all. “Come on, treasure,” Theo sighed, holding Harry close to his side and slowly making their way toward the beach house. “I know it feels wrong for them to be gone but it will settle down in a few hours. You and I need to spend time with one another to establish a firm bond. The stronger our bond, the stronger the circle. That’s the real reason everyone left. Well, that and I’m sure they all really do have people they need to speak to.”

Oh. So that was the two that Ethan had mentioned. “Shall we explore the beach house?” Theo asked as they stepped in the entryway. “Or do you want to rest, like Ethan recommended?”

Harry turned his green eyes to meet the golden ones staring down at him. He swallowed hard. No one had ever looked at him like that before. Like he was important. Like his words meant everything. Like he meant everything. It was unsettling and yet…

What did he even know about Theodore Nott? They had been in class together for years and yet Harry could honestly say he knew very little about the other. He vaguely remembered seeing him often with a book in hand. Remembered thinking he was kind of like Hermione. He remembered Hermione mentioning that he was close to her rank wise in classes. He saw him hanging around Blaise on occasion. He had never really been one of the Slytherin’s that he saw bullying others. He never really saw him around Malfoy. But that was it. That was all he knew.

And now he was his alpha. His…soulmate if all of this was to be believed. One of the people he was going to spend the rest of his life with. He didn’t even know him.

“I want to know you,” Harry blurted. Theo seemed taken aback for a moment and Harry felt himself flush. “I just, I mean-“

“I get it,” Theo reassured him, that quirked twitch once again on his lips. “Well,” he twisted his fingers around Harry’s and led the two of them to one of the sofa’s. He sat and pulled Harry down, wrapping the two of them together until they were both comfortable. “Let’s get to know one another, shall we?”

_______

Ethan and Bran went from room to room, making sure there were plenty of supplies for their newly formed circle. The kitchen was surprisingly stocked though Ethan was sure they’d go through the food fairly quickly with the amount of gheyo’s they had. He grimaced at the thought of himself being the only  Pareya. While he was gifted in most areas, cooking was not one of them. Hopefully one of Harry’s other open bonds was with a pareya that could cook. For now, they would just have to deal with his lucklaster skills. Unless there was someone else in the circle that was able to do it. He glanced at Bran but shook his head. He doubted the other would present as a pareya. Though, that could change now that he was in the circle at such a young age.

“I think that’s it,” Ethan said as he closed the last cabinet. The two had avoided the front lounge area where Theo and Harry were. They were all aware that the alpha and submissive needed some time to bond on their own. Ethan glanced around again and sighed. He knew what he should do. He just really didn’t want to do it. “I need to visit my family and let them know about Harry and the circle. Do you want to come with me?” It was a strategic move. They would still ask questions – lots and lots of questions – but hopefully the young dragel would be able to distract them.

Bran shot him a look in response, one that said the younger knew exactly what he was doing, but he shrugged his shoulders. “Alright.”

Ethan grinned and pulled the younger boy out of the house. His mama would love Bran – so would his sisters. Hopefully that would be enough to get their attention off of him until they returned for dinner that night.

________________________

Ariki wasn’t the least surprised to see both Bahn and Bhindi waiting for him when he arrived. “What happened?” Bahn demanded as soon as he was in sight. The twin submissives hurried toward him, both checking him for injuries.

Ariki let them do their fussing, knowing it would be worse if he tried to stop them. He quickly explained the situation he had found himself in when he was whisked away by Harry’s soulscream and what had happened to them since. Both Bahn and Bindi’s lips were pursed in displeasure by the time he finished. “Ilsa’s Theo is the alpha? We must meet with them. Especially if you are all staying in the beach house.”

“I agree,” Bhindi cut in as Ariki began to protest that it was too soon for them to meet the entire family. “Your submissive is young and has been through a lot, from what you have heard. It’s important that we make sure he is aware of customs if he does not yet have a mentor.”

Ariki’s mouth snapped shut. He hadn’t even thought about Harry’s mentor. Shouldn’t they have appeared after Harry’s inheritance? Even if it came early? It was something he needed to speak with Theo about.

“Did Ilsa set up the beach house?” Bahn said, his brow furrowed. “I mean, appropriately? Do you have everything that you need?”

Ariki grimaced. He should have anticipated that question. “I left before Ethan was able to go through everything. I thought it would be better for Theo and Harry to spend some time together.”

Displeasure crossed Bahn’s face yet again. “Well, we’ll send some dishes home with you just in case. It would be unseemly for us to let our guests starve.”

“We wouldn’t starve-“

“Come, we’ll talk to the pareya. How about a clam bake? We could set one up within the next few days…”

Ariki sighed and followed after the twin submissives. He had a feeling their family meeting was going to happen sooner than he or Theo anticipated.

____________________

Quinn should have known the matron would be…less than accommodating of his situation. He was only working at the clinic because he liked being able to help those that couldn’t afford other, more private healers but he had a feeling that his time there was just about up.

His mother agreed.

“Finally!” she clapped her hands together happily when Quinn explained the situation to her after he left the clinic. He had originally planned on returning back to the beach house after the went to speak to the matron but the discussion took much less time than he had expected. And he thought he needed to speak with his mother about his future plans before he did anything too rash. “You can set up here, of course. And you can even take on some of the…more specialized patients, if you prefer.” He knew what she meant by that. His family usually catered to the earth court, particularly those in higher positions. It was one reason he liked working at the clinic. But if they allowed him to treat those of lower social standing, even if they were only in the earth court, he would be happy. “You’ll need to speak to that alpha and submissive of yours, of course. Do you think they will have an issue with it?”

Harry’s green eyes flashed in Quinn’s mind. He shook his head. Harry would be fine and he was pretty sure Theo would be as well. His mother nodded decisively. “Good! You’ll need some time to settle with your circle but after that we can get you set up.”

Quinn felt his shoulders slump as he relaxed. He didn’t deserve this, the circle or the chance his mother was giving him. He worked at the clinic for a reason. He worked there to pay back all the hurt he had caused. Yet…

“This is a good thing,” his mother told him firmly as she pulled his larger frame against her small one. Small she may be, but he gasped for breath as she hugged him tightly. “I’m very proud of you.”

Quinn’s eyes watered at the words and he quickly blinked them clear. Um, there’s one more thing I have to tell you. A couple of things were found during Harry’s scan…

_____________________________

The gheyo’s reappeared a couple of hours into Harry and Theo’s talk. Harry smiled at them in greeting but Theo’s eyes narrowed. “You are all free to leave until dinner,” he stated calmly. Most people would probably take it as an option.

They all knew it wasn’t.

“We need to pack our things anyway,” Minh responded brightly as he grabbed Idan’s hand. “See you all soon!”

“I need to see someone,” Devrim muttered, quickly following the two out the door.

Hadrian eyed the alpha and submissive for a moment but nodded his head. “I too have business to…negotiate. I shall return shortly.”

Blaise hesitated a moment before following the others without a word. Theo grimaced. He knew the other didn’t have anyone to talk to or anywhere to go but he and Harry needed this time together. He’d make it up to his best friend later.

Wikhn was the last to leave. He tilted his head at the two of them and studied them silently before turning and walking out of the beach house. Theo tilted his own head as he listened to the gheyo’s footsteps stop down the beach. It looked like the man wasn’t prepared to leave them alone just yet. That was fine.

“They were quick to leave,” Harry muttered as he turned his face so it was buried against Theo’s chest. Theo chuckled and wrapped his arms more securely around the submissive. The two had been chatting for the last couple of hours, both of them talking about their likes and dislikes, both avoiding subjects that they probably should be talking about but neither really wanting to get into it at the moment. Theo was well aware that there were things Harry wasn’t telling him, rumors he had heard in school, but he decided not to push it. Afterall, he was keeping his own secrets at the moment.

“So, what were you saying about a third?” Harry questioned as he snuggled against Theo once again.

Theo ran his hand through Harry’s hair. He was surprised with how soft it was despite its appearance. “All dragels have a third parent. There is the bearer, the sire, and then the third that contributes magic. I have no idea who my own third is.”

Harry bit his lip. “So, I should have one too?”

“You should.”

Harry nodded slowly, “Is there any way to find out who they are? I mean, if they’re…alive?”

Theo jolted at the question and he mentally cursed himself. Of course Harry would want to know if he had a parent, one that was alive, out there somewhere. “We can try,” he said quickly, making a note to go to the library yet again. He wasn’t sure if they would be able to find any other information there but they could try. Maybe Quinn would know of some other options.

“Okay.”

Chapter Text

Harry was delighted that all of his bonded managed to return to he beach house for dinner that night. Ethan and Bran were the first to arrive, Ethan popping his head in and letting them know that his family had sent some dishes for dinner that night. Quinn’s family had done the same and the healer appeared only a few minutes later with bags of things with him. Bran had just sighed and helped the healer bring things into the kitchen. Harry shifted from where he was in Theo’s arms so he could help the other three, but the alpha had pulled him back and told him to relax and the others would take care of it. Harry settled against Theo, feeling a bit guilty that he wasn’t helping but happy that he wasn’t expected to cook for everyone.

The gheyo all trickled in next, Blaise and Wikhn arriving first. Hadrian was the last to arrive and he paused in the doorway for a moment to observe the alpha and submissive before speaking. “Sorry to interrupt. Harry, can I talk to you for a minute?”

“Course!” Harry replied quickly, chirping happily as he received a quick kiss on the forehead from Theo before he stood and followed the ace out the door and onto the porch. “Is everything okay?” He asked worriedly, wondering if something had happened within the last few hours.

Hadrian shook his head and reached out, running a hand through Harry’s hair. “Everything is fine. Do you remember what we spoke of earlier? That I’m contracted to another circle?” Harry nodded, thinking back on the conversation that they had had had before they bonded. “Now that we are in Nevarah, we will need to contact the Cunninghams and explain the situation so they can let me out of my contract. The sooner we do this would be the best.”

Harry nodded but worry grew in his chest. What if they didn’t let Hadrian out of the contract? What if he did something wrong? “No need to worry,” Hadrian said, pulling the young submissive toward him and letting Harry rest his head against his chest. “If we weren’t soulbonded or if you were of age, things might be more of a challenge. But with our circumstances, everything will be fine.”

Harry sighed at the reminder and nodded. “Alright. Just let me know when…should Theo come too?”

“Not for this, little one,” Hadrian responded. “But we’ll talk to him about it before we make any plans.”

“Alright.”

“Everything okay?” Harry chirped at the familiar voice and held out his hand, not moving away from Hadrian’s arms. A cold hand wrapped around his own instantly.

“You made it back!” Harry said, turning his head to meet Alec’s eyes.

“Theo said to be back by dinner,” Alec responded, dropping Harry’s hand and walking by the two to go into the house. Harry exchanged an amused glance with Hadrian before the two followed after him. Everyone had arrived and was sitting at the table by the time the two entered and Harry slid into the seat between Theo and Bran at the end of the table. He blinked in amazement at the array of food, most of which he had never seen in his life.

“Uh…”

“Try a little of each and see what you like,” Theo chuckled, picking up his plate and placing small, very small, portions of each of the offered dishes. “Some of them will taste pretty familiar even if they look strange. Others…well, you’ll just have to see.”

Harry soon found himself the center of attention. A place that he really didn’t enjoy being, but he found himself pretty amused as his bonded made a game out of him trying various foods. As he picked the next thing to try, his bonded would take a bet on whether he would like it or not based on whatever he had previously tried. So far, Quinn and Alec were winning by one and ariki was laughing as Minh pouted at Harry disliking his favorite dish.

“So, did everyone have a good day?” Harry finally asked, cutting into the fun when he realized he couldn’t eat another bite without feeling like his stomach was going to explode. His bonded smiled in his direction, though Harry noticed a few of them eyeing his still full plate. He fought against rolling his eyes. He wasn’t sure what they were expecting. There was a lot of food on there!

“I think most of our families want to meet the circle at some point,” Ethan said as his eyes flickered up to meet Harry’s. “I know mine does. I managed to distract them for the moment with Bran but it wont last long.”

“Thanks for that,” Bran muttered but his lips quirked up into a smile. “I know my mam will want to meet everyone when she’s able to. Especially with…everything.”

The prophesy. It went unsaid but they all knew what he was referring to. Harry’s smile fell slightly, guilt once again welling up in his gut. He was here, spending time with his new bonded when others were facing something that wasn’t their responsibility. He should really-‘’

“I can honestly say that none of you have to worry about meeting my family,” Alec muttered from where he was sitting between Quinn and Blaise. “We aren’t exactly on speaking terms.”

Harry blinked at the merrow, wondering if he should ask, but Blaise snorted. “No family for me either. Mother is on Earth.” He didn’t elaborate on his sire or his third. Harry flashed back to his request that only Theo or Harry could push for information on his past. Another thing they would deal with later.

“We’ll set something up with everyone that wants to meet the circle within the next few weeks,” Theo cut in as he moved his own, empty, plate away from him. “We also need to make a trip to the library and look at the family scrolls to see if we find anything on Harry’s family. And we are going to meet Quinn’s family for medical scans, correct?” he sent a glance toward Quinn, who nodded sharply.

“Bahn mentioned a clam bake,” Ariki sighed and Theo snorted before quickly regaining his composure. Harry couldn’t help the delighted smile at the sight of his alpha losing his composure.

“Of course he did.”

Ariki seemed to hesitate for a moment then sighed. “He also asked if we had heard anything about Harry’s mentor. I hadn’t really thought about it until he mentioned it, but it’s been almost twenty-four hours…”

Harry saw his bonded exchange a frown. “Mentor?”

“A teacher,” Theo explained, “Someone to explain about dragel culture and help you through your inheritance. They’re assigned when someone comes into their inheritance and usually arrive pretty quickly. It is a bit…strange that we have not yet been contacted.”

Harry’s shoulders slumped. Great. Another thing that was strange about him.

We can put in an official request if we don’t hear anything by tomorrow. Quinn wrote, a frown on his face. We can also check on Harry’s third if we take a scan of his magical signature. I can do that after we eat.

“Perfect,” Theo responded. They continued to eat, everyone talking amongst themselves, then Quinn, Theo, Harry, and Ariki retreated into what Harry assumed was going to be Theo’s office for the time being. Quinn did some sort of spell and took a sample of Harry’s magical signature and explained that they could use it to track down familial connections. “It can take some time,” Theo warned Harry as Quinn nodded at his side. “Why don’t you see what everyone is doing while Ariki, Quinn, and I start working on the requests?”

Harry was happy to leave any sort of paperwork to anyone else and wandered out of the office and down the hall. He was pleasantly surprised to see that the rest of his bonded, even Alec, were in the lounge. The gheyo’s were playing some sort of game that seemed to involve sharp objects and stones, while Ethan was reading a book. Alec was leaning against the far wall, watching the gheyo’s steadily. Harry had a feeling he was learning what move each of them made so he could use it against them later. Bran was curled up on the sofa beside Ethan, a book in his hand but his eyes were also flickering up every few seconds as he watched the others in amusement. Harry moved toward his youngest bonded and flopped down beside him, careful not to touch the other. Bran sent him a smile before reaching out, curling around Harry carefully so the two were pressed together without any skin touching. “It’s fascinating. And bloody,” he whispered loudly.

Idan sent them a grin over his shoulder and hissed when a knife ended up in his hand only a second later. “Keeps our skills sharp,” he responded.

Minh rolled his eyes. “Not if you’re distracted,” he pouted, pulling the knife out of Idan and shaking his head. “Pay attention.”

“What’re you reading?” Harry questioned and Bran flipped the book closed, showing an unfamiliar cover. He explained it was a book of magical tales that he had enjoyed when he was little and he had grabbed it when he saw it on the shelf. Harry, having never heard of any of the tales before, requested to read them together. Bran grinned and the two bent over the book together, laughing and pointing out different passages. Neither noticed the fond glances they received from the other bonded.

Harry only glanced up when the sofa moved and a warm arm wrapped around his shoulder. He looked up to see an amused Quinn. He chirped happily at the sight of his healer and glanced behind him, expecting to see Theo and Ariki as well. Theo and Ariki are completing their bond. Quinn wrote. Harry frowned in confusion for a moment before he flushed brightly when he remembered what he had learned about those of age completing their bonds. Bran giggled at his side. “That’s a good thing,” Bran told him lowly. “Our alpha and beta need to be bonded and stable.”

They do. Quinn agreed. Harry nodded, his inner dragel preening and cooing at the thought of his alpha and beta bonding, of them making his circle strong. Still…well, it wasn’t that Harry didn’t want to think about it, because the thought of them together just made him…well, he shouldn’t think about it. Especially not in a room with a bunch of people.

He once again looked down at the book Bran was holding and the two returned to their reading, this time Quinn holding onto his hand and pointing out his favorite parts as well. Theo and Ariki joined them later that night and Harry squeaked when Theo lifted him from the sofa and slipped in behind him, setting Harry on his lap. Ariki laughed and went to sit beside Ethan, the two talking to each other lowly. “Happy, treasure?”

Harry glanced around the room and nodded. He heard Luna’s voice echoing in his head. You will be very happy. He still wasn’t sure how he could be. Not when he knew what was happening back home and his friends were in danger. But right here, right now…yeah. He was happy.

Chapter Text

Harry woke up warm and extremely comfortable the next morning. He let out a long, content sigh as he sank into the arms that were holding him. He was pretty sure he had never felt this…relaxed in his life. The person behind him chuckled. “Finally awake?”

Harry shook his head, not wanting to admit he was awake and be forced to get up. The person laughed again and tightened their hold around Harry’s waist, pulling him more fully against the warm chest. “Alright. We can stay here a bit longer until Quinn starts getting antsy about us needing to eat.”

Harry couldn’t help but smile slightly at the mention of his other bonded and the mothering tendencies they had already began to notice. He snuggled back against the person holding him but opened his eyes slightly, looking down at the arms around him. “Where is everyone?” he asked lowly, his voice slightly raspy from the long night of unuse.

“Up and about,” Ethan responded lightly. “Alec stopped by earlier before leaving. He’s the only one that wasn’t excused from work for the rest of the week. I get the feeling he’s more important to the merrow court than he wants to let on.”

Harry smiled again at the mention of his sarcastic and snarky merrow but felt a bit sad that the man wasn’t there with the rest of them. “You decided to stay here?” Harry questioned.

“Well, you were very snuggly,” Ethan teased. Harry blushed. “And I wasn’t about to give up having some alone time with you. Even if you were asleep.” 

Harry blinked at the words. It was true that with the large group, it would be hard for them to get one on one time with each other. He and Theo had managed the night before only because everyone had purposely left them alone because it was important to the circle. He didn’t want to make anyone feel like they were left out or second place… or third or fourth. “You said everyone is here today?” Harry questioned quietly.

“Hmm? Yes.”

“Good,” Harry stated firmly, squirming around so he was facing the man behind him. Ethan blinked at him for a moment at the movement but then gave him a fond smile. “So…tell me about you,” Harry said lowly, his face flushing at the odd phrasing. “Not about ranks or whatever. Just Ethan.”

“Just Ethan, huh?” the man in question laughed. “Well, I’m a scholar. All of the Hartwoods are. I do contract research work, so I spend most of my time at the library. I have a large family circle that is very excited to meet you. I am a horrible cook and admit that I’m happy that Quinn seems to want to take that particular chore over.” Harry giggled at the man as he scrunched up his nose. “I’m a bit fussy when it comes to certain things… I might end up driving you a bit crazy to make sure you and everyone else is comfortable.”

Harry shrugged. “That doesn’t sound bad. But it might be stressful for you – there’s a lot of us.”

Ethan gave him a small smile. “Yes. That’s why I have a feeling at least one of your open bonds is another pareya. We already have a fairly large circle but Quinn feels like you have multiple open bonds. I do believe that I will need some assistance.”

“Of course!” Harry said, determined to do everything he could to help Ethan even if he didn’t find another pareya for their circle. He didn’t want to think of the open bonds right then. He had enough bonded for the moment and enough to worry about. “I know how to cook and I’m pretty good at it. I don’t like it, but I can do it. And I can clean. And garden…”

Ethan smiled and leaned forward, pressing a lingering kiss on Harry’s forehead that had the submissive blushing. “Thank you. Quinn has taken over the kitchen and I have a feeling some of our families are going to be sending food to us for a while. As long as everyone cleans up after themselves, we should be okay. And we can talk more about gardening when we find a place of our own. I know Theo and Ariki were talking about it last night.”

Harry nodded, having overheard the two muttering to each other about trying to locate a property for them all to stay on a more permanent basis. He had ignored them. He still wasn’t sure he was willing to stay there for a long period – not with everything going on back home. He knew they at least needed to go back soon so he could make sure everyone was okay and he could deal with Voldemort. And with the prophesy…well, there wasn’t any guarantee that he would be alive to return after they went back to Earth. So, he really didn’t see the point in finding a more permanent residence.

“Tell me more about the school you went to,” Ethan said, breaking Harry out of his thoughts. “What was your favorite class? Which did you like the least?”

Harry smiled in amusement. Trust his scholar bondmate to want to talk to him about school. Harry gave him a brief rundown of his classes and explained about Defense Against the Dark Arts. Ethan seemed disappointed when Harry mentioned he didn’t enjoy History of Magic but when Harry explained about Binns and what they were taught, the man understood. He seemed determined to show Harry that history was interesting and began to dive into some of his favorite events in dragel history. Harry found himself drawn in – not so much to the events himself but into how exhilarated Ethan was to talk about it.

They continued to lay there, Ethan rambling on about various historical events and Harry downing in his voice, until there was a light knock on the door. Ethan instantly cut off and called out for whoever it was go come on in. The door pushed open and Quinn poked his head in. He gave the two a quizzical smile. “Ah, sorry,” Ethan chuckled, sitting up and pulling Harry with him. “We got distracted. Well, I did.” Quinn’s smile turned more fond and he stepped forward, holding out his hand. Harry chirped happily at the healer and wrapped his hand around the one offered.

Quinn pulled him lightly and Ethan gently lifted him so he was on his feet beside the bed. “I’m going to assume breakfast is ready?” Ethan questioned as he stood himself and reached his arms out, stretching his back. Harry’s eyes fell down to the strip of skin the move revealed and he quickly averted his gaze as he flushed. More like brunch now, Quinn’s voice entered Harry’s head and the submissive let out a giggle. He relayed the message to Ethan, who laughed as well, and then the three moved out of the bedroom and down the hall. They entered the dining room and saw everyone already sitting around the table, most of them talking loudly or shoving food into their mouths. The only person missing was Alec. “Morning!” Various voices greeted them. Harry beamed and slid into the open seat beside Theo. The alpha was quick to wrap an arm around his waist and press a kiss against the side of his head.

“Sleep well, treasure?”

Harry nodded. “It was nice,” he said, thinking of how he hadn’t had a nightmare and had slept more deeply than he had in years. He hoped it wasn’t an anomaly. He smiled thankfully at Quinn when the healer placed a plate of food in front of him. He hid his grimace at the large amount of food. He’d just have to eat what he could and hope that no one noticed what was left.

“What are you wanting to do today, treasure?” Theo asked and everyone around them seemed to stop speaking so they could listen to Harry’s answer. Harry hid a sigh. He had a feeling things like this were going to happen often.

“Not sure,” he responded, pushing around something that looked like green eggs on his plate. He thought back to this morning, when he realized he really didn’t know much about his bonded beyond what their ranks were within the circle. “I thought…well, maybe I could spend some time with everyone? Alone? Just so we can…” he trailed off, unsure of how the others were going to take the request. He lowered his eyes, not wanting to see the reactions. But his head jerked up when he heard rumbles of approval around the table. He saw pleased grins and fond glances. He flushed.

“That sounds great,” Theo assured him. “I have some paperwork to work on with Ariki, but he can join me later. The others can entertain themselves around the house.”

“We can train,” Hadrian stated firmly. The other gheyo’s nodded in agreement. “Just find us when you want.”

“I got my time this morning,” Ethan said, smiling at Harry fondly from where he sat across the table. “I have some research to compile. Do you mind if I sit with you in the office?” He asked Theo who was quick to assure him it was fine.

Bran looked a bit unsure and Harry turned toward Ariki in determination. “Can you teach me to fly? And Bran?”

Bran blinked. “I don’t have my wings yet-“

“You can still come with us!” Harry said quickly, not wanting to subject his youngest bondmate to sitting in a room with Theo and Ethan while they worked on paperwork. Bran still looked unsure but Ariki nodded happily and said that there were a lot of younger dragels that would come down to the field to learn the basics before they came into their inheritance.

So, Harry moved out toward the beach with Ariki and Bran after breakfast. He and Bran sank down onto the sand as Ariki stood in front of them, lecturing them on safe flying. He then had Harry pull out his wings and begin some strengthening exercises. “So, what was that thing you mentioned about a broom?” Bran asked from where he was lounging in the sand, basking in the sun as Harry continued to move his wings and Ariki watched him closely.

“Hmm? Oh! Well, there’s this game…” Harry started, explaining what quidditch was and how it was played. Bran, who already knew all of this thanks to Harry’s memories, watched in amusement as worry, anxiety, and amusement flashed across Ariki’s face as their submissive told of his past games. Bran had to stifle a laugh when Harry explains why he caught the gold ball in his mouth during his first game when he was eleven. It was horrifying in a general sense, but the fact that Harry didn’t seem to realize how the stories were affecting his bonded was just too amusing.

Bran was almost looking forward to the gheyo’s reaction.

Just to the broom thing, though. The rest of it was not going ot be pretty.

After a couple of hours, Harry bid the two of them goodbye and Ariki whisked Bran away to the beach house. Bran protested, saying he could find something to do, but Ariki led him into the office where Theo and Ethan were working. “You didn’t tell us just how…dangerous that game Harry played was,” Ariki stated as he moved toward Theo and nuzzled against the alpha’s neck.

Theo raised an eyebrow as he wrapped an arm around the beta. “Harry was telling tales, I assume? Yes, it can be dangerous – especially if Harry is the one playing. He does enjoy it, though.”

“He does,” Bran agreed as he hesitantly made his way toward the alpha. Theo smiled at him and opened his other arm. Bran quickly situated himself in the alpha’s hold, careful not to touch any skin. He wanted to bond with the alpha but he didn’t want to force the other to reveal himself to him. He knew that something unpleasant must have happened for his alpha to have presented so early. He was still in the middle of processing Harry’s memories – which was a lot – and he wasn’t sure if he was ready for Theo’s yet. “I think he’s going to spend a lot of time in the air when he can finally get off the ground.”

“Well, we have a few air dragel that will be happy to go with him,” Theo responded, sending a smirk toward the beta at his side. Said beta just laughed in response. “Ariki and I need to complete the paperwork to register the circle. Do you-“

“Not want to do that?” Bran questioned quickly, laughing at the exasperated looks he received in response as he ducked away from Theo and turned toward Ethan. The older dragel was deeply involved in whatever he was working on. Bran was pretty sure he hadn’t even heard him or Ariki come in. He noticed the slightly ruffled appearance of the other man and the fresh bond mark on his neck. He shot a knowing glance at Theo, who shrugged his shoulders. “I’m tired. I’m going to take a nap.”

“You just woke up a few hours ago,” Ariki laughed as he plopped down into the desk chair.

Bran shrugged his own shoulders and turned toward the door. “I’m a teenager. I’m tired.”

Theo snorted loudly at the words but Bran continued on his way. He was sure someone would wake him up eventually.

Meanwhile, Harry had found Quinn making a list of things in the kitchen. He stood over the man, peering over his shoulder. “What’re you working on?”

Quinn jerked slightly, his eyes wide, and Harry sent him an apologetic smile. “Sorry!”

The other shook his head and reached out to wrap their hands together. It’s fine. I wasn’t able to tell you yesterday, but I had some…issues at the clinic when I went back. I’m going to start working from my parents house starting next week. I’m making a list of things I need to make sure they have in stock.

Harry frowned, remember how Quinn had requested that he be able to continue to work at the clinic if they bonded. “Is that okay? I thought you wanted to stay at the clinic?”

I liked being able to help a bunch of different people and species. The other responded. My family is very specialized in the cases they take. But the matron has made it impossible for me to stay. I talked to my mam and we worked it out so I can still take on the cases I like while working with the family. Plus, it’ll give me more time to spend here.

Harry smiled unsurely. “As long as that’s what you want. I don’t want you to give up something you love just for us.”

Of course I would, Quinn replied instantly. You and the circle are the most important thing. But that’s not the reason why I’m doing it. Now, did you enjoy your flying lessons?

Harry knew the subject was being changed on purpose but he let the other get away with it. Mostly because he really had enjoyed his flying lessons and he wanted to talk about them with someone. He rambled on for a bit before changing the subject back to Quinn and his family. “So, your entire family are healers? What do you mean by they’re specialized?”

Harry learned more than he ever thought he would about healers and healer circles for the next hour. He was absolutely fascinated by the different specialties and the things Quinn had run across over the years. He understood why he had enjoyed his job at the clinic so much, despite the matron. He was glad that he had been able to work something out with his family. My brother is a mind healer, Quinn said hesitantly. I know that there are things that happened with you on Earth that you don’t want to talk to us about. But I think you should talk to someone. No necessarily my brother, he said quickly when Harry jerked away from him and opened his mouth in protest, but he can recommend someone. When Harry didn’t respond, Quinn continued. I’m actually going to talk to Theo about many of our circle seeing someone. There were things that showed up in the scans… he trailed off and Harry imagined him letting out a deep sigh. I just think you guys should think about it. I know that it helped me.

Harry turned to him in question and Quinn averted his eyes. There was an incident a few years ago. When this happened. He motioned to his throat. I hurt someone that I care about. A couple of people. After, I was in a bad place. In fact, if I hadn’t spoken to a mind healer I’m certain that I would have had a block on and would not have responded to your call. Harry blinked at the words, unable to imagine Quinn not being there with them. I didn’t think I deserved to be with anyone. Not after what happened. But they made me see things a bit differently. I still have issues but I know better how to deal with them now. And I still go once a month, more if I need it. I just think you should think about it.

Harry couldn’t help but nod in agreement, his throat burning. He knew if he tried to speak right then, he’d probably start to cry. Maybe it wouldn’t be too bad to talk to someone. But it would have to wait. He had other things to deal with first. Maybe later, if he managed to survive the war. He was sure he’d have a lot more to talk about if that happened.

He and Quinn curled up together on the sofa, the serious topics forgotten as they talked about things from their pasts. Neither of them touched on anything too deep. Harry relayed some of his more fun stories from Hogwarts and Quinn told him about shenanigans he got up to with his siblings when he was younger. Then the two of them put together some snacks for everyone since they had a late breakfast, Harry actually enjoying the cooking when he was doing it with Quinn. They let everyone know there was food available and the others trickled in and grabbed things over the next few minutes. Harry gave Quinn a lingering hug when he noticed Bran was missing and Theo told him that the younger had gone to take a nap. He grabbed a few things and threw them on a plate before heading out to find the teen.

Bran, true to his word, was fast asleep on the large nest of blankets. Harry giggled and crawled in beside him, snuggling up against his side and nudging the younger boy. “Wh-“ Bran muttered.

“I brought snacks!” Harry told him, laughing again as Bran turned toward him instantly and blinked sleepy eyes. “You have to get up to get them.”

Bran groaned but pulled himself into a sitting position. “Alright, alright. I guess I need to get up.”

Harry shrugged. “I guess. I was going to go see the gheyo’s train for a bit and wondered if you wanted to come with me.”

Bran sent him a quizzical look, then grinned. “Oh, you’ve never seen them train before, have you? Yeah, sure. I’ll go with you.”

Harry decided not to question it and the two went down toward the beach where Harry felt his other bonded. He instantly knew what Bran meant. The training was…bloody. And kind of terrifying. At least he knew that his bonded could handle themselves in a fight. With the way his life went, that was probably a good thing. “Is it our turn yet?” Minh questioned, flying down and dropping beside Harry. He threw his arm over the submissives shoulder and leaned over to peer into his eyes. “We’ve been waiting forever!”

“Don’t be irritating,” Idan muttered but he also looked at Harry imploringly. Harry grinned at the two before sending a questioning glance in Bran’s direction. The younger waved him away and plopped down on the sand.

“Don’t mind me. I’ll hang out here for a bit.”

Harry was hesitant to leave Bran alone when he had brought him out there but the other seemed to be content where he was. He let himself be ushered away by Minh and Idan but glanced over his shoulder just in time to see Blaise sit beside the younger dragel. “Blaise will take care of him,” Minh muttered to Harry as the three turned and the others were out of sight. “He’s a joker – he can do what he wants. He just joined us because he didn’t have anything else to do.”

Harry frowned at that and wondered why he hadn’t seen Blaise around Theo much. The two had always been together at Hogwarts and Theo had said the other was his closest friend. Maybe it was odd for them now, being in the same circle. He needed to talk to Theo about it. Or maybe he could ask Blaise if he was uncomfortable.

“So, flying went well?”

Harry shrugged. “We didn’t do any actual flying. Just learned the basics and worked on strengthening my wings. Ariki said we could start the actual flying later.”

“Yeah, I forgot about that,” Minh scrunched up his nose and threw his long, blond braid over his shoulder. “Well, do you want to go flying?”

Harry blinked. “I thought-“

“Air dragel,” Minh reminded him, motioning to himself and Idan. In an instant, both had their wings out and they had scooped Harry up, bringing him into the air.

Harry laughed loudly and decided to just enjoy himself and let the two do as they pleased.

Bran grinned as he heard Harry’s laughter and Blaise glanced over his shoulder. “Not a sound we hear often,” the joker muttered and Bran’s grin faded. With the memories he had seen, he knew the other was correct.

“Yeah. He’s had it rough,” Bran agreed. Blaise frowned and tilted his head, his violet eyes narrowing thoughtfully. Bran grimaced. If he didn’t want to see Theo’s memories yet, he was positive he didn’t want to see Blaise’s. Luckily, most jokers chose not to bond with the rest of the circle and, if Blaise and he did eventually decide to bond, it would be much, much later. “Touch based ability. I see someone’s life when I touch them.” Blaise shifted slightly, moving further away from Bran. He tried not to feel slighted.

“No offense,” the other said. “Just don’t think you want to see anything about my life.”

Bran grimaced. “Sorry, but I’d have to agree. I’m still processing everything from Harry and it’s already a lot.”

Blaise’s eyes met his again and the other slowly nodded. He seemed to hesitate a moment before his shoulders squared. “We’d hear things. About Harry and his life. But it was never clear what was real and what was just people talking. It’s kind of funny, though. Theo…he always watched him. Harry. Draco was obsessed in a different way. Theo would just get this look on his face, like he wanted to…”

“Protect him,” Bran said, his mind flashing to Theo standing in the background and watching Harry as the others turned against him the previous year. Harry had barely noticed him, too focused on the tournament and the fact that that “friend” of his had actually thought he had put his name in the goblet. Now that he thought about it, he saw Theo in a lot of Harry’s memories. Harry had just never noticed.

Blaise had been there as well. Always at Theo’s side.

Bran was a bit surprised Blaise had bonded to Harry and not Theo. Of course, he was soulbonded to Harry so it wasn’t that strange. Still, he wondered if Blaise and Theo had a soulbond as well. He wondered how long it would take for the two of them to complete their bond. If they did at all.

The two sat in silence as they watched Hadrian, Devrim, and Wikhn train. Bran was quick to catch the fact that Wikhn had not bonded to the other two. “He requested to only bond to Harry,” Blaise muttered at Bran’s questioning look. “I don’t know why. Didn’t care enough to ask.” Bran nodded. It was odd but he wasn’t going to question it. One thing he knew for sure was that he wasn’t a gheyo. He never really understood how they worked. “What do you think about the open bond thing? With Harry?”

Bran hesitated. “I think that it’s going to be hard for Harry to add anyone else to the circle unless he has to,” he finally said. “It’s already hard for him. Seeing things from his point of view, I understand it. He’s going to need all of us to reassure him that he isn’t destroying our lives. And then there’s that prophesy…”

Blaise snorted and leaned back on his palms, titling his face up toward the sky. “Dumbledore has been manipulating him for years. Everyone in Slytherin could see it. If he had been one of ours, we would have put a stop to it. But since he was in Gryffindor-“

“Yeah,” Bran agreed, not spoiling his bonded’s secret that he had first been sorted into Slytherin. He was sure they would find out at some point. “But Harry doesn’t see it that way. And he isn’t going to just forget about everything and stay here.”

“I know,” Blaise agreed. “Theo does too, though he doesn’t want to admit it yet.”

“Admit what?” Minh asked as he dropped down beside a startled Bran. Harry was smiling widely as he joined them, his arm wrapped around Idan’s waist as the two came to stand beside Blaise. “You two have a good conversation?”

“We did,” Blaise agreed, pushing himself to his feet and pulling a windswept Harry toward him. “I think I’ll take my time with the golden boy now. You good?” He asked Bran, who nodded and laid down fully in the sand. He had been awake for a few hours, he was sure he could sleep for a bit. The sleeping helped him with processing memories. By the time he woke, he should have all of Harry’s completed.

“Don’t burn,” Minh said, gently tugging on a lock of Bran’s hair before pushing himself to his feet and moving toward the other gheyo. “We’ll wake you in an hour!”

“We’ve known each other for years but I don’t actually know much about you,” Blaise said as he pulled Harry down the beach toward the hammock he had seen by the house. Harry was surprised at the words. He was so used to people from school acting as if they knew him. Theo hadn’t acted like that but Harry had figured he was an anomaly. The fact Blaise said the same thing made something in him warm.

“Me either,” Harry admitted. “You and Theo are friends, right? And you’re friends with Malfoy.”

Blaise grinned at the distaste on Harry’s face at the mention of the blond. “Yeah. Theo and I met at Hogwarts on the train our first year. I knew Draco for years before that. Theo’s father was not the best person,” Blaise said and Harry nodded. He had learned about Theo’s father the day before. Death Eater, friend of Voldemort during school, how he had been unfit to the Nott lordship and tried to kill Theo when it fell to him. “He kept him pretty isolated when he was young so he was never around most of us. The one person he was allowed to be around was Draco. The two of them are friendly but not really friends. Draco and I tolerate each other. Theo’s my closest friend.”

Harry nodded. The two of them curled up in the hammock, Harry resting fully against Blaise’s chest. “So, tell me the truth,” Blaise said as the two of them got settled. “How was your head floating in Hogsmeade in third year? Draco would not shut up about it.”

Harry laughed and explained about the cloak. Blaise demanded he be allowed to see it at some point and Harry agreed. The two exchanged stories of their exploits, Blaise growing amazed as Harry described the map and the different passages he had not been able to find. He explained how he and Theo had managed to avoid being part of Umbridge’s squad that year and how upset he was to learn about the blood quill. Harry flushed and admitted that he had instigated some of it but Blaise was quick to shut that down. “It was never and will never be okay,” he told him firmly. “No matter what you said or did.”

Harry swallowed hard to fight the lump in his throat and ducked his head against the joker’s chest. He wasn’t sure anyone had ever said anything like that to him before. He sucked in a deep breath and nodded his head, letting Blaise know that he understood what he was saying. Blaise hugged him tightly for a moment, then sighed. “I suppose we should get you back. There are still three more people waiting to spend time with you.”  

Flushing, Harry forced himself to stand and the two made their way back to the grounds the gheyo’s were using to train. Hadrian saw them coming and motioned for Devrim to step out. The half-were ducked his head and hurried toward them. Blaise chuckled before moving toward a still-sleeping Bran. “I thought you were going to wake him?”

“We did!” Minh yelled out as he ducked under Hadrian’s arm. “He just went back to sleep!”

Blaise shook his head and waved Harry and Devrim away. “I’ll take care of it. He should probably go back to the beach house before he burns. I’m done training today anyway.” He ignored the glare Hadrian shot his way and leaned over Bran. Harry didn’t get to see the way the other woke the sleeping dragel as he and Devrim headed down the beach.

“So…” Devrim started, shifting uncomfortably as the two of them walked down the beach. “I really don’t know what to say,” he admitted, rubning the back of his neck sheepishly.

Harry giggled and wrapped his hand around Devrim’s. “Just talk. Tell me about you. Tell me something you like. Something you don’t. Anything.”

It took some time to get Devrim to open up to him and Harry was once again reminded of himself when he first went to Hogwarts. It was clear that Devrim had some issues about his past and was uncomfortable around people. He lit up when he talked about Hadrian and Harry thanked his ace silently for being so good to the other man. He’d have to thank him. He thought back to what Quinn had mentioned earlier that day. About the mind healer and how he thought others in their circle might benefit as well. He could see why he thought that. But Harry couldn’t expect the others to see someone when he wouldn’t do it himself.

Another thing he would have to deal with later. After the war. If he was still alive.

Devrim and Wikhn exchanged places seamlessly when Harry and Devrim wandered back toward the gheyo’s. Blaise and Bran were gone, most likely in the house. Harry wondered if the two were together or if they had found something else to do. He hoped the two would become friends. And he still needed to talk to Theo about him and Blaise. He should have mentioned it to Blaise earlier but he hadn’t had the nerve.

“What’s worrying you?” Wikhn asked. Harry flushed.

“Sorry. I shouldn’t have been-“

“It’s fine,” the dark fae responded. “What is on your mind?”

Harry searched the others face, wondering if he actually wanted to know or if he was just being nice. When he saw the curious expression, Harry sighed and explained that he was worried about Theo and Blaise. Wikhn nodded slowly as Harry spoke and steadily watched him with his pink eyes. “I do not think you need to worry,” he said steadily. “Theo is busy with finalizing everything for the circle and Blaise is finding his place in the circle. The two of them will find their way to one another. It is clear to all of us that they are close. You might be correct in thinking the two of them also have a soulbond. You will just have to trust that the two of them will work things out.”

Harry nodded as his shoulders relaxed. He hadn’t realized that just talking about it with someone would make him feel better. “I just want everyone to be happy,” he admitted. “I don’t want anyone to feel left out.” He thought of Bran.

Wikhn’s eyes narrowed. “Is there more?”

Harry smiled sheepishly and admitted his fears about the younger dragel. “I know he’s young and not had his inheritance yet, so it’s hard for him to find his place or whatever. I just don’t want him to feel like he doesn’t belong.”

“Bran grew up in a dragel family,” Wikhn reminded. “He’s our consort at the moment but that could change when he comes into his inheritance. He knows that. And you, Blaise, and Theo are not that much older than him. He’ll be fine. And I believe he is still in school and has friends outside the circle as well.”

Harry came to a stop at the information. School. Why hadn’t he thought of that? He, Theo, and Blaise were still in school. Why hadn’t he thought about Bran being in school as well? How did the school system even work here? Was Bran missing class? He needed to find out. Especially if he was keeping Bran away from his friends.

Now that Harry’s worries were alleviated, he and Wikhn began talking about Wikhn’s job. The dark fae seemed surprised that Quinn had left the clinic but said he understood why. Harry then learned more about the matron and realized that Quinn had probably made the right decision to get away from the woman. Wikhn admitted that he was going to be happy when they got reassigned and he could leave the clinic as well.

Hadrian dismissed the gheyo as soon as the two came into view and they were quick to disperse. He led Harry back to the beach house and informed Theo that the two of them had some business to do and that they would return for dinner. Theo raised an eyebrow but said it was fine.

That was how Harry ended up meeting the Cunninghams.

They were terrifying.

Yet, for some reason, they seemed to love him. They were furious when they learned how old he was and that he had several seals on him that had partially blocked his soul scream. He saw Hadrian duck his head and speak privately to Mariana before the woman gave him a bloodthirsty grin. She released Hadrian from his contract and told the two of them that she would be in touch. Harry asked what that meant but Hadrian just shook his head.

Harry wasn’t sure if he really wanted to know.

They arrived at the house just as Quinn was placing the last dish on the table. Everyone was already there, even Alec, who reached out and tugged on Harry’s ear as the submissive slid into the chair beside him. “Heard you had an eventful day,” the merrow muttered. Harry laughed and leaned against the other man.

“Yep! You and I are going to spend time together after dinner.”

“Oh, are we now?” Alec asked sardonically but he gave the submissive a small smile and nudged him slightly.

The game from the night before seemed to continue with dishes that Harry hadn’t been able to try. He noticed right away that many of the dishes that he didn’t like either weren’t on the table at all or they had been moved toward the people that did like them. None of them made it onto his plate. He warmed at the thought that his bonded had paid enough attention to him that they remembered what he liked and didn’t. Even Hermione would give him things that he disliked on occasion.

“I had a call from Bahn today,” Theo announced. The table fell silent as everyone turned their attention to the alpha. “We scheduled to have the clam bake tomorrow afternoon. Does that work for everyone?”

Most of the table nodded but Alec shrugged his shoulders. “I might be able to get away. I have actual duties to attend to.”

There were rolled eyes around the room but Harry frowned. “What exactly do you do?” Harry questioned and Alec met his eyes steadily but didn’t answer. Ethan cleared his throat after a few seconds of silence and changed the subject to the research project he was working on. Harry narrowed his eyes at Alec. He would find out. One way or another.

He had barely pushed his plate away from him when Alec was on his feet and picking Harry up, throwing him over his shoulder. “Alec!”

“You said it was my time after dinner,” the merrow responded, ignoring the laughter that followed them out of the room. Harry gave up fighting and allowed Alec to carry him to one of the merrow rooms. The merrow put him down outside the pool and flung himself into the water, coming up a few seconds later so he was completely submerged except for his forehead and eyes. Harry laughed and stripped off his shirt and trousers, leaving him only in his shorts before joining the merrow. He winced at the too warm water.  Alec swam over toward the taps and began draining the water, turning on a cooler tap. “Oh. You don’t have to-“

“You’re uncomfortable,” the merrow muttered. “It doesn’t really matter to me. Water is water.” He swam back toward Harry and pulled the submissive toward him. Harry sighed happily at the feeling of the merrow’s cold scales against his body. He wouldn’t have minded the warmer water if he had been pressed against Alec.

“So, what is it you do?” Harry asked again and the merrow chuckled before reaching up and gently tugging on Harry’s ear.

“Not going to give that up, are you?” He laughed again as Harry shook his head. “I work for my cousin. He’s the king.”

Harry jerked back, eyes wide. “King? Of what?”

“Of the merrow,” Alec said slowly, like Harry was some sort of idiot. Harry stared at him, trying to understand the words, and Alec rolled his eyes. “The four main elements have a royal family. Air, earth, water, and fire. My cousin is the king of the merrow – water. I work for him. I train Goonther.”

“Goonther?”

“Water dragon.”

“There’s a water dragon?!”

Alec snorted loudly. “That’s the part that surprises you?” He laughed at Harry’s offended look. “Yes, there’s a water dragon. I’ll introduce you at some point. Now. Yes or no?”

“…what?”

“Yes or no?”

“Uh,” Harry met the merrow’s eyes and squared his shoulders. Trust. Bonded. “Yes.”

“Good choice,” Alec grinned and then something was being slipped on Harry’s wrist. He jerked slightly and looked down at the cuff that now adorned his wrist. “I’m going to be courting you the merrow way. I don’t care if we’re already bonded and pulled by a soulscream.”

“I have no idea what that means.”

“I know,” the merrow grinned and Harry felt trepidation rise in his chest. “It’ll be fun. Trust me.”

Chapter Text

Harry watched in both amusement and a bit of trepidation as Ethan, Theo, and Ariki all fussed over the circle. They were all going down to the beach to meet with the Deveraine’s, Ariki’s parents circle and the circle that Ilsa apparently belonged to. Ariki had admitted to Theo earlier that night that his mother had some issues with the circle and hadn’t been around them in many years – Theo had not been happy to learn that bit of information but Ariki had asked him to stay out of it.

“Okay, I think we’re all good,” Ethan finally said, taking a step back and looking at them with satisfaction. Harry saw Minh roll his eyes but he did it where Ethan couldn’t see him. Theo, on the other hand, shot the gheyo a sharp look that received a sheepish smile in return. Harry knew that Theo was nervous about this meeting. The Deveraine’s were the closest thing the alpha had to a family and he had just learned that Ilsa had distanced herself from them. Harry was sure the alpha was worried about the welcome that he was going to receive. Harry wasn’t sure how to make it better. He just hoped that everything went well.

The circle made their way down the beach to where the Deveraine’s had set up for the clam bake for the day. Harry glanced around at their circle, still amused that Ethan and Theo had decided the group should match in their green and brown swim gear. He wasn’t sure why that had been so important but Ariki had nodded along with them, so Harry assumed it was a family thing. When the Deveraine’s, all dressed in white and gold, came into view, he understood.

They were beautiful.

Harry shouldn’t be surprised, considering he had Ariki for a bonded and he wasn’t exactly difficult to look at, but he instantly fought back the urge to try and flatten his hair when he saw just how perfect they all were.

“Ariki! Theo!” the man leading the group called, a brilliant smile on his face as the two groups met. The man instantly pulled both of Harry’s bonded into a tight hug before pulling away and glancing the two of the over quickly. “The two of you look good. Happy.”

“Theo,” the woman beside the man speaking said cooly, nodding at the alpha before pulling Ariki into a hug. Theo nodded in return as Ariki wrapped his arms around the woman.

“Bahn, Bhindi. It’s good to see you both,” Theo greeted.

“You as well,” the man, Bahn, said brightly. “Now, let’s get the introduction over with quickly so we can move on.” He flew through names and positions so quickly that Harry had not time to process what was being said. He forced himself to smile as all the eyes turned toward him in interest. Was he supposed to do something? He sent a quick glance at Theo and the alpha slipped an arm around his waist.

“This is my submissive, Harry Potter,” he said calmly. “As you know, we are a soulbonded circle formed from a soulscream. Harry is only fifteen and has yet to have any sort of training. We’re working on it,” he said quickly as both the submissive’s in front of them frowned. “We have yet to hear from his mentor. I’ll do the introductions.”

Theo introduced everyone present and said they had another bonded, a merrow that they weren’t sure would be able to attend. Bahn waved away the apology and moved toward Harry, smiling softly. “It’s nice to meet you, Harry. Why don’t you come with my sister and I and we’ll get you up to speed on a few things?”

Harry nodded but sent another look in Theo’s direction. The alpha ignored him. Right. Okay. This was going to be fine.

He grabbed Bran’s sleeve as he was whisked away to a shaded area that had blankets laid out. Bran didn’t seem to mind, giving him an amused smile as the two shared a blanket while Bahn and Bhindi sat beside them. “I’m so sorry that you had to go through whatever happened,” Bahn said softly, grasping Harry’s hand and giving it a light squeeze. “it is difficult enough coming into an inheritance. But coming into one early and with a soulscream…”

“Not to mention all the seals,” Bran chimed in. Harry sent the younger boy a glare as both Bahn and Bhindi’s heads snapped toward him.

“Seals?”

“Hmm,” Bran nodded. “Harry had a lot of them. I’m sure Theo will mention it later or Ariki but one of the seals was actually supposed to block a soulbond. Harry cracked it with his scream but it didn’t fully break. So…”

“So there are more bonded,” Bhindi cut in. Harry winced at the cool voice she used. Her face softened and she reached out to gently pat his arm. “I’m not angry with you. Placing a soul seal on someone is horrible and the fact that you cracked it is worrying. And you said there were more seals?”

“Many,” Bran quipped.

Harry glared at his youngest soulbonded but the other just shrugged his shoulders. “They’re our in-laws. They should know. Oh, one of the seals is a parental seal from the Peveralls. I know Theo is going to try to get in touch with them but since you’re members of the air court as well…”

“We’ll look into it,” Bahn responded firmly. “Now, what is this about a missing mentor?”

What transpired next was one of the most interesting, informative, and infuriating two hours of Harry’s life. While the rest of his bonded where playing some game down on the beach, Bahn and Bhindi had made it their mission to educate Harry on everything he needed to know about dragel customs and etiquette. Bran was quick to join in on what he knew as well. The three of them were doing Harry’s head in but he couldn’t make them stop. He didn’t want to do anything that would embarrass his circle and it was nice to have Bahn and Bhindi – Ariki’s parents and Harry’s in-laws, family – want to help him. After a couple of hours, Theo made his way toward them. Harry couldn’t help but smile at the relaxed posture of his alpha. He hadn’t seen the other boy so comfortable. “Everything alright, Treasure?” He asked as he sat behind Harry and pulled him back so he was resting against Theo’s chest. Harry chirped and turned slightly to lean more fully against the alpha. This was one thing he was never going to get tired of.

“Yes. Is everyone having fun?”

“It’s been nice,” Theo admitted, rubbing his hand down Harry’s arm before lifting his arm slightly. Bran was quick to lean against him, making sure their skin didn’t make contact. Harry winced for the other boy. He wondered how long he was going to be able to go without having to have contact with someone. “Alright?”

“Yes,” Bran agreed. “We’ve been going over some things with Harry.”

“Things?”

“You really should look into the mentor situation,” Bahn cut in. “Even if he came into his inheritance early, they should have been notified. As you well know.”

Theo grimaced. “Yes. We’re going to send an inquiry to the Earth court.”

Bahn hesitated a moment, then nodded. “It might go quicker if it is sent through Ilsa. I’m sure she would help you.” The words were stilted and it was clear Bahn was uncomfortable with the situation. Harry felt Theo tense behind him. Not for the first time, he wondered what had transpired between Theo’s mentor and her circle that had her leaving for so long. He couldn’t imagine being away from any of his bonded like that.

“I’ll speak with Ariki about it,” Theo responded after a moment and Bahn nodded.

There was a tense moment before the Deveraine’s announced that food was ready. Theo told Harry and Bran to stay where they were as he stood and walked over to the buffet style setting. “Sorry about that,” Bahn said lightly. “It’s an…uncomfortable subject. Anyway, I’m sure Theo will be able to take care of it. But if not, let me know and we’ll make our own inquiries.”

Bhindi nodded in agreement. Harry wondered why the other hadn’t said anything when Ilsa was mentioned. From what he had learned about her over the last couple of hours, she wasn’t exactly someone that kept her opinions to herself.

Theo returned with three plates and many of Harry’s bonded. Harry smiled in greeting as they all sat around him, their own food in hand as they asked how his day had been. Harry said it had been good, he was happy that they were all able to relax. He was about halfway through his too large plate when Bahn blinked at the water. “I think we have another visitor.”

Harry followed his gaze and smiled brightly when a familiar figure emerged from the water. Alec moved toward them slowly, maneuvering around all of the people sitting on the ground until he reached Harry. Harry held out a hand, eager to feel the other’s cool skin against his own. Alec’s lips twisted into a smirk as he grasped the offered appendage and twisted their fingers together. He sank down beside Theo, slightly behind Harry. “You made it!”

“Barely,” the merrow responded, nodding at the greetings he was receiving from both their circle and the Deveraine’s. Theo was quick to introduce him but Alec ignored it. Harry knew that this went against protocol thanks to his lessons with the twins that afternoon, but he also knew that the merrow tended not to follow said protocol, also thanks to his lessons.

Just the fact that Alec was there was a big deal.

Harry would take it.

Chapter Text

Harry shifted nervously as Ethan fretted around them once again. They had planned to meet the Hartwoods the week before, the day after the clambake, but Harry had ended up falling asleep on the beach and started his realignment cycle. To say that his bonded were a bit frantic when they couldn’t wake him that day was an understatement. Luckily, Bahn was able to calm everyone down and the Deveraine’s got them all back to the beach house safely. It had taken five days for Harry and his circle to wake, then another two days for Ethan to catch up on his own sleep. Now that they were all rested, they had rescheduled meet Ethan’s family. The pareya was clearly stressing out about having his family meet the circle, which had Harry stressing out even more than he usually would. What if they didn’t like him? What if they wanted Ethan to bond with someone else, someone better? Smarter? They were a circle of academics and researchers. Maybe they would be upset that Harry’s circle….wasn’t. Harry couldn’t say he had ever really done well in any class expect Defense and that seemed kind of pointless here. Especially since he still didn’t have his wand. It had taken him a couple of days to ask about it but no one had picked it up or even realized it was missing at the Ministry and Theo said that they would have to wait to find it. Harry hadn’t been happy and it had led to yet another argument between the two. Which, in turn, made things more uncomfortable for the rest of the circle. Harry was learning quickly that the circle became very upset when the alpha and submissive were upset with each other.

Harry was trying. He was. But it was his wand.

Even now the thought was making that familiar burning feeling build up in his chest and Harry quickly pressed his hands into fists to hide the fact that his claws had slipped out. Theo could put it off all he wanted – he still had a wand! Yes, Harry understood that wands weren’t really a thing here, but he would feel better to have it on him. Especially since he really didn’t understand much about the gift he did have and it wasn’t really good for fighting, anyway.

Of course, he glanced down at the blood slowly dripping from his palms as his claws dug into his skin. He sighed. He guessed he wasn’t completely defenseless.

Gentle hands took his fists in their own and Harry grinned up sheepishly at a stern looking Quinn. You know that isn’t going to help anything. The man said before he cast a gentle healing spell.

“Sorry,” Harry muttered, leaning forward and pressing his forehead against Quinn’s chest. “Just feeling a little…”

He trailed off, not really sure how to describe how he was feeling at the moment. Stressed? Upset? Scared? There are plenty of options.

Harry cracked a smile. “A bit of everything, I think. Ethan’s worried.”

Quinn hummed and ran a gentle hand through Harry’s hair. He just wants to make sure everything goes well. I’ll probably be the same when you meet my entire family and we all know that my mother already loves you. Harry blushed at the thought of Quinn’s mother. They had only met briefly but the woman was constantly asking Quinn for updates and passing over gifts. Nothing bad is going to happen. They aren’t going to take Ethan away from you. Even if they wanted to, do you really think that he would go?

Harry glanced once more at the fussy pareya and giggled as Minh crossed his arms over his chest and glared at the man. Harry wasn’t really sure what the two were arguing about, but Minh seemed like he was at his wits end. Theo was pinching the bridge of his nose and Blaise had a large smirk on his face. Harry suddenly had a flashback of the two in a very similar position when they were at Hogwarts when Harry and Draco were in an argument. Huh. He had never really noticed the two of them there before.

“Okay, I think that’s enough,” Theo finally said, cutting into whatever spat Ethan and Minh seemed to be having. “If we do not leave soon, we are going to be late. I, for one, would like to make a good impression.”

Ethan ducked his head. “Sorry, alpha. Yes, we should go. But my family would understand if we didn’t show up exactly on time.”

“I would rather us be there when scheduled,” Theo commented lightly and Ethan ducked down even further. Theo took a step forward and placed a quick kiss on the pareya’s bent head. “No need to fuss so. Everyone looks well. You did a good job in preparing us.” The tension leaked from Ethan’s shoulders. Harry sighed. It was hard for him to stay upset with Theo when the alpha did things like that. He glanced around the circle and saw the fond looks the pareya was getting from the rest of their bonded. Good. He knew that Ethan was also stressed about being the only pareya and wanted to make sure that everything was perfect. Harry was determined to find the man some sort of help. He was sure one of his open bonds was a pareya.

Well, he hoped they were.

He wasn’t really sure what else they could be.

“You are all free to spell your ears if they get to be too much,” Ethan told them with a deep sigh. “I have a lot of siblings. They’re loud. Really loud.” He glanced at Harry and grimaced. “I think it would be best if someone was to stay with Harry. It can be a bit overwhelming.”

“We will,” Ariki assured the pareya before pulling him into a hug. “You already told us everything we need to know. Quinn is going to stay by Harry’s side the entire time. He’ll get him out of there if things get too bad. And Bran will be sticking with them,” he shot a sharp look at the underage dragel, who just nodded his head from where he was standing at Harry’s side. He didn’t seem nearly as worried about the potential overwhelming as the others in the circle.

They had barely ported in when Harry realized why Ethan had decided to warn them. Multiple times.

There were so many people.

So very many.

They all wanted to meet Harry, many of them pulling him into hugs that had him stiffening and fighting desperately against himself not to pull away. He knew doing so would be rude. There were the many, many siblings. Ethan’s parents and their circle. His siblings circles. Their children. Harry had no idea how anyone was able to keep so many people straight. How was he supposed to keep them all straight? He briefly remembered a group of triplets asking him a million questions before Ethan came up and chased them away. Then they were replaced by someone that Harry thought was Ethan’s brother. Then his mam. Then his sire. Then another set of twins.

He was never going to be able to do this.

“Take a breath, treasure,” Theo whispered in Harry’s ear when he came over and pulled the submissive into a light hug. “No one is expecting you to remember everyone right away. We have an entire lifetime. Just try to have some fun.” Harry frowned at the words. Wouldn’t he be rude if he didn’t at least try to get to know everyone?

Apparently not, because his bonded seemed to make it a game to see how many people they could fend off to keep away from Harry. Or, at least, make it so he was only talking to a few at a time. Bran seemed to find the entire thing particularly amusing by the grin on his face. Harry scowled at his youngest bondmate but the other just giggled. The sound had Quinn grinning as well, though he at least tried to hide it behind his hand. “You two are terrible,” Harry muttered.

The groups somehow managed to shift and Harry found himself sitting with Quinn, Bran, and a couple of Ethan’s sisters that he was embarrassed to say he couldn’t remember the names of. He didn’t want to ask and insult them, so he figured he could ask someone later. They didn’t need to know that he had forgotten. “Ethan has always been a little fussy,” one of the girls told him lowly, “we knew way before he presented what he was going to be. It isn’t really a shock – we’re pretty pareya heavy.” She rolled her eyes. “The triplets are really the biggest exceptions. The one thing Ethan is really bad at is cooking,” she whispered. “He never could make anything that tasted…good. He tried! He really did! But he definitely has other strengths.”

“He’s great!” Harry glared slightly at the words. “He takes such good care of me and the rest of the circle! And he’s my only pareya and has so much to do-“

“Yeah, but he can’t cook,” the other girl said bluntly. “I hope you have someone that can take up that task. Or you guys can just come over here. Mera would love it.”

“Quinn cooks,” Harry muttered, glancing at the blushing healer sitting at his side. “Ethan told us the first day that it would have to be up to someone else. I can help as well. I don’t necessarily like it, but I’m pretty good.”

“He is,” Bran agreed. “I guess I could learn as well. I never really thought about it before but it really isn’t fair to leave it all up to you and Quinn…”

I don’t mind.

Harry sent the healer a teasing grin. “I’m sure you don’t. That way you can make sure that everyone is eating what they’re supposed to and not a bunch of junk.”

Quinn’s blush deepened slightly and Bran snorted. “I miss my dessert.”

The women both laughed at that and Harry snuggled into Quinn’s arms as the healer continued to blush. He was kind of surprised to find that he was enjoying himself. He had certainly been a bit stunned when they got there, but now that the introductions were done and everyone had calmed down, he was enjoying himself. The two women spoke to them a bit longer and then hurried to help with dinner. Only a few seconds later, they were replaced by two of Ethan’s brothers.

Harry had a feeling there was some sort of schedule that he was unaware of.

He wasn’t going to complain. At least this way he was able to speak to everyone and get to know them without there being a huge jumble. A quick glance around the room showed that there were multiple groups like his, Theo and Ariki talking to the triplets, the gheyo’s split into pairs and talking to other members of Ethan’s family…Ethan himself seemed to be speaking to his parents. Harry just wished that Alec had been able to join them but after their unscheduled nap, it seemed that he had trouble getting away. He had muttered something about catching up on a lot of work and getting it done before there was a descaling. Harry wasn’t sure he wanted to know what that meant.

Harry enjoyed himself even more as the night went on and was giggling at the game of tag the younger dragel had started up when he was suddenly hit by a wave of guilt. The smile fell off his face and he blinked quickly, trying to hide the tears that had suddenly filled his eyes. How could he be happy right now when he had no idea what was going on back on Earth? For all he knew, Voldemort could have already been back and terrorizing everyone. His friends could be in danger – they could even be dead. And he wouldn’t know because he was there and not fighting like he was supposed to be.

There was a prophesy saying that he was supposed to fight Voldemort. He needed to be there.

“What just happened?” Bran asked, cutting into his thoughts. He tilted his head to peer into Harry’s eyes and let out a distressed sound. Harry’s entire circle froze and slowly turned toward them. “You were fine just a moment ago!”

Harry?

“Treasure? Is everything okay?” Theo asked calmly as he suddenly appeared at Harry’s side.

Harry bit his lip and glanced around. Ethan’s family were pointedly not looking at him, all of them talking amongst themselves. Harry appreciated it but it made his stomach sink even further. He had ruined everything. He should have known it was going to end like this. “Sorry,” he whimpered slightly before clearing his throat. No, he didn’t want to sound like that. “I just…should I really be here? I mean, we don’t know what’s happening back home and with the prophesy-“

“Treasure, we’ve talked about this,” Theo sighed, pulling him into a loose hug. “Time runs differently here. We’ve barely been gone a day on Earth.”

Harry scrunched up his nose at the words. They all kept telling him that but it didn’t really mean anything. Voldemort could return at any moment. It wasn’t like there was a waiting period. “But-“

“I thought we agreed to speak to my family about the prophesy first,” Bran cut in. Harry blinked and turned to the younger dragel, who was standing with his arms crossed over his chest. He met Harry’s eyes stubbornly. “We need to talk to my mom. She’s off realm at the moment but we’ll go see her as soon as she returns.”

Harry grimaced. He had forgotten about that. For some reason, Bran and the majority of his circle seemed to think there was more to the prophesy than what they were told. Or that Dumbledore was somehow wrong. Harry really didn’t understand it. Dumbledore was the leader of the light and had been fighting Voldemort for years. He knew the man better than anyone. Why didn’t they want to trust him? “I know, but what if-“

“We agreed,” Bran replied crossly. “I’m not going to run off and risk my life, or anyone elses, because of one old man. Prophesy’s are never as clear as he made them out to be. I don’t have the talent like most of my family so I can’t really help interpret, but I know more than…most,” he cut off whatever he was going to say when Theo shot him a glare. Harry’s brows furrowed. Why did it always seem like they were keeping things from him?

“I…fine,” he muttered, not wanting to fight about it again. Especially not here when he was supposed to be getting to know Ethan’s family. He sighed and pulled away from Theo. All his worrying about being rude on accident and then he went and did something like this. He was going to be lucky if they ever wanted to see him again.

Still…

“Can we go see Sirius soon?” Harry questioned Quinn quietly. If he couldn’t check on the rest of his friends, he could at least check on the one person he still had that wads there with him. Quinn nodded quickly.

Whenever you want.

Chapter Text

Harry scowled in irritation and swatted at the hand running through his hair before snuggling into the warmth surrounding him. There were multiple chuckles at the action and Harry scrunched up his nose. He was determined to ignore whatever it was that was going on and continue sleeping. It had been so long since he had slept so deeply. He wasn’t willing to give it up. Not yet.

“Sorry, Treasure,” a familiar voice said warmly. “Quinn is waiting for us. We’re going to see Sirius today, remember?”

Harry’s eyes flew open at the words. “We are?”

Theo gave him a soft smile and held out a hand. Harry grabbed it quickly and allowed the older teen to extract him from the pile of bodies he was currently surrounded by. Harry looked at the group in interest but Ariki waved a hand. “You and Theo can go with Quinn to visit your godfather. The rest of us will be there in a couple of hours to meet with the rest of the Kalzik clan.”

Harry grimaced at the reminder of the medical appointments they were going to have later that morning with Quinn’s family, but even that didn’t stop the excitement of visiting his godfather. He knew that Sirius wasn’t awake yet but Quinn had been keeping him updated. He just wanted to see him and make sure that everything really was okay. He maneuvered around his bonded to reach for his trunk, but before he could get there he felt the familiar feeling of magic wash over him. He glanced down and saw himself in a nice pair of trousers and a clean shirt. “Bran!”

“You’re not meeting them in those,” Bran muttered, closing his eyes once again and rolling over. “We really need to get you some new clothes.”

Harry flushed. It wasn’t as if he didn’t know his clothes were a mess. Most of them were way too large, worn thin, with multiple holes in them. But he didn’t like the fact that to get new clothes, he would have to get money. He didn’t even know how money worked here. He was planning on getting some new things when they returned to the wizarding world and he had access to his vaults. He had already been pestered into letting Theo get him things to wear when they met Ethan and Ariki’s families. Enough was enough.

“We’ll take care of it,” Theo cut in before Harry could say anything and start another argument on the subject. “I take it these are yours?”

“We’re the same size,” Bran agreed tiredly. He opened one eye and studied Harry before nodding. “You look presentable.”

Harry huffed and sent a glare Theo’s way when the older boy huffed a laugh behind a hand. Theo’s smile grew at Harry’s look and he reached out, pulling Harry against him softly. “You look wonderful, Treasure. I’m sure Quinn will appreciate the effort.”

Harry’s shoulders slumped at the mention of his healer. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t met Quinn’s mother and various members of her circle before. But he guessed it was better that he didn’t look like he crawled out of a gutter when they were meeting with so many of them today. “Alright. Thanks,” Harry muttered, leaning his head against Theo’s chest and letting out a sight. He then perked up when he remembered exactly why he was up when most of his bonded were still asleep – well, trying to sleep. Many of them were giving him sleepy smiles. “Okay, we should go. Go back to sleep.”

“We’ll join you soon,” Ethan called out as Harry and Theo made their way toward the kitchen. Quinn was waiting for them, two hot plates on the table where Theo and Harry usually sat. His own breakfast was sitting in front of him. Harry shook his head when he saw the healer. He looked perfect and completely awake. He wondered just how long the other had been awake.

“Good morning,” Theo said, placing a soft kiss on the top of Quinn’s head. Quinn blushed and gave the alpha a grin. “Looks great, as usual.”

Thanks. As soon as the two of you finish, we will head out.

Harry didn’t argue, sliding into his seat and quickly shoveling food into his mouth. Theo sent him a reprimanding glance but Harry ignored him. He was going to get to see Sirius. It wasn’t as if he thought Quinn was lying to him about his godfather but he needed to see the man with his own eyes.

The three ate quickly and in silence, Harry finishing long before the other two. He shifted anxiously in his chair until Theo, the last to finish, pushed his plate away. “Alright, Treasure. We can head out. Quinn, you want to do the honors?” Quinn agreed and Harry braced himself. He still wasn’t good at porting. He squeaked when Theo chuckled and wrapped a steady arm around him, pulling him back against a strong chest. “Just in case,” the alpha said in amusement.

Quinn’s lips twitched before the three of them ported away.

Harry slipped out of Theo’s hold as soon as they landed and hurried after Quinn, who led the way to a small hut behind a much larger one that the family lived and worked in. Quinn explained to them that it was one of the ones used for those that needed long term healing. Sirius was welcome to it for as long as he needed.

Harry slipped through the door and stopped instantly when he saw the form of his godfather laying on the large bed. Despite the fact that the man had been asleep for weeks at this point, he seemed to look…better than Harry had ever seen him. More like the man he had seen standing beside his father in his parents wedding pictures. “He…he looks good. Better, I mean.”

Quinn nodded and waved a hand, the sparkling letters appearing in the air. Many members of my family have been working to bring him back to full health. There were many things that needed to be taken care of before they could even think of bringing him out of the healing trance. They’re getting closer every day. Quinn hesitated for a moment, then sighed. We had to alert the death court that we had one of his hounds. They were very…concerned. They sent a representative to see him. Said that when he woke up, they wanted to talk to him.

Harry’s brows furrowed. “Is that a bad thing?”

No, Quinn said quickly. It’s just odd for them not to know of his existence. I’m sure it will all be worked out. Theo sent the healer a look Harry decided he didn’t want to interpret at the moment. Instead, he moved toward the chair beside his godfathers bed. I thought Theo and I could give you some time alone. Talking to him will help.

“Can he hear me?” Harry asked softly, sliding into the chair. He slowly moved his hand to wrap around Sirius’s. It was warm. He didn’t know why he thought it would be cold.

He can. Quinn smiled. I’m sure he will be happy to hear from you.

“You and Theo-“

“Quinn is planning on opening his clinic here within the next couple of weeks,” Theo commented lightly. “I’m sure he has things to do and would be happy to have an extra set of hands.”

Quinn scrunched up his nose before shrugging his shoulders. You aren’t wrong. Who knows what my mother would do if I don’t do it myself. He looked back at Harry. Spend time with your godfather. Someone will come get you when it’s time for your treatment. Harry’s eyebrows raised. He knew that they were getting scans today – he didn’t know anything about treatment. We need to set some things up anyway.

Well, that couldn’t be good. “What treatment-“

“We’re hoping to be able to remove some of the seals,” Theo admitted. “We weren’t going to say anything until we were sure,” he shot a look at the unapologetic Quinn, “but I guess Quinn is sure they’ll be able to do something.”

At least one, Quinn agreed.

Anxiety rose withing Harry. “Should I be worried?”

“Not at all,” Theo assured. “Quinn would not allow anyone to attempt a removal if it could cause you harm.”

No, I would not, Quinn agreed. Mam and I have spoken of what is the best route to take. We believe we can remove the blood seal and possibly the soul seal today. It will just depend on how difficult they are to break.

Harry bit the inside of his lip but nodded his head. He knew that Quinn would only do it if he thought it was best. And he knew that none of his bonded would do anything to hurt him – not on purpose, anyway. Theo and Quinn both kissed his forehead before they left the small hut, leaving Harry alone with Sirius.

Harry sighed deeply and slouched in his chair. “Well, this is awkward,” he said lightly. “Quinn says you can hear me so…I guess I should tell you what’s been happening. Do you know about dragel? That’s the important part. Cause I didn’t know anything about them and it’s made things so confusing…” it was like a flood gate had opened. As soon as Harry started talking, he couldn’t stop. He went through the events at the ministry after Sirius had fallen, about waking up in Nott Manor. About their trip to Hogwarts and how he had been convinced to come to Nevarah. He told his godfather how guilty he felt for leaving and how he was going to convince Theo that they needed to go back. Or at least he did.

“I can’t just stay here,” Harry said in frustration. “No matter how much I might want to. I can’t just leave everyone. The prophesy said that I was the only person that could defeat Voldemort… and that’s another thing! None of them seem to trust Dumbledore about the prophesy. They want to talk to Bran’s family first which, okay, I get that. But I don’t see how it will make much of a difference…”

Harry continued to talk for so long that his throat began to ache. He really wished the man was awake so he could respond, so he could tell Harry that he was right and that they needed to go back. At least until Voldemort was gone. He just knew Sirius would agree with him. The man had been fighting Voldemort for longer than Harry had been alive! He had gone to Azkaban because of the war. He had lost his friends…Harry’s parents…because of Voldemort. Surely he would see where Harry was coming from. Maybe he could help Harry convince Theo…

Harry must have been talking longer than he though, because there was a light knock at the door before it was pulled open. “Good visit?” Bran asked, striding into the room and coming to stand beside Harry’s chair. Ethan was right behind him, giving their youngest bonded a fond smile.

“Yeah,” Harry responded. He squeezed Sirius’s hand once again before letting it drop. “Is it time?”

“Yeah,” Bran responded. “Quinn and his mam got everything set up for the ritual to remove your blood seal. The others are already meeting with some of Quinn’s family to health checks. Ethan and I volunteered to come get you when Quinn’s father pulled Theo into a room. He didn’t look very happy.”

Ethan grimaced. “It shouldn’t take long. He’ll be out in time for your ritual. I doubt Quinn would do it without him there.”

Harry wasn’t so sure about that. If Quinn thought Theo was going to be in the way or do something to interfere, he had no doubt the healer would find a way to distract the alpha – or kick him out of the room entirely. “Alright,” he said softly. “I’ll come back to visit,” he told his sleeping godfather. “Or you could wake up and visit me at any time.”

Bran snorted. “He’s in a healers coma. He won’t wake until they let him.”

“Well, hopefully they’ll let him soon.” Ethan laughed and threw a warm arm over Harry’s shoulders as he led him out of the hut and up toward the main house. The three walked in comfortable silence and only separated when Quinn stepped out of the hut and motioned Harry to follow him. He sent at stern look at Bran. You were supposed to have a health scan.

Bran shrugged. “I feel fine.”

Scan, Quinn insisted. Bran rolled his eyes but nodded his head. Ethan shook his own head in response. “I’ll make sure he does it.” They ignored the betrayed glance he got from Bran. Harry sent Bran a sympathetic glance before he was pulled away by Quinn. He soon found himself in another room, this one with a ritual circle and ruins on the floor.

“Oh, Harry! I hope you had a good visit with your godfather,” Sarajini said, pulling Harry into a warm hug. “He’s doing wonderfully. We hope to wake him within the next week or so. It just depends on how his next round of healing goes.” Harry smiled at the other submissive at the news. Great! “Now, did Quinn explain the process to you?”

Harry raised an eyebrow at his sheepish bonded. “I didn’t even know we were doing this until about two hours ago.”

Sarajini blinked, startled, then rounded on her son. “Quinn! You know better than that!”

We weren’t sure if it was going to happen until you confirmed it last night, Quinn explained. Theo did not want him worrying all night.

Harry wanted to be upset, really, but he had to admit that Theo was right. He would have been up all night long wondering what was going to go wrong. “Nothing to worry about!” Sarajini said quickly, most likely seeing the look on Harry’s face. “Quinn has been monitoring your health and the seals and we are sure that removing the blood seal will be fairly easy. I’m going to be the one doing that with Quinn as backup. As long as all goes well, we should be able to remove the soul seal as well. Quinn has an affinity for soul magic, so he’ll be primary. All you have to do is lay in the middle of the circle. It might feel a bit strange, but it shouldn’t hurt. If you feel any pain, tell us and we’ll stop immediately.”

And that means actually tell us, Quinn chimed in, his face stern. If you are experiencing any pain, it means something is going wrong and we have to stop. Don’t try to tough it out. Tell us.

Harry bit back a scowl and nodded. He was pretty sure Theo had been telling stories. Speaking of…Harry glanced around. He, like Ethan, was sure that Theo would have at least tried to be here.

He is on his way. He promised to stay outside the circle.

“And I will,” Theo responded as he walked into the room and straight up to Harry. The submissive noticed that the alpha looked a bit unsettled. He let out a soft chirp and Theo rumbled reassuringly. “Nothing to worry about, Treasure. Are we ready?” Quinn seemed just as interested in their alpha’s ruffled state as Harry, but he nodded and motioned for Harry to step into the circle. Harry did so, laying where indicated. It was strange, staring up at the ceiling and bracing himself for what was to come. He fought the urge to fidget and glance over at his bonded.

“Try to stay as still as you can,” Sarajini called. “We’re starting.”

The circle seemed to instantly light with a bright light and Harry quickly closed his eyes when the light became too bright for him to keep them open. At first, he didn’t feel anything at all…then there was a feeling in his chest, like something was being pulled. The pulling sensation grew worse and worse, not hurting, just like something was trying to move. Then, with a pop, the sensation stopped and Harry sucked in a deep breath. Oh.

“Harry? How do you feel?”

“…light,” Harry commented, rubbing his chest in confusion. It was like there had been a knot there that he hadn’t noticed until that moment. “Good.”

“Good!” Sarajini called. “Your vitals look great. The blood seal is gone. I think we’re good for the soul seal removal. Take a breath and let us know when you’re ready.”

Harry did as instructed, letting out a deep breath and shifting on the ground. He was not sure how long that had taken but he was surprisingly stiff. He had not thought it was that long. Once he was in a somewhat comfortable position, he called out that he was ready to start. The light was different this time. Instead of that bright white, it was a familiar teal color. Quinn’s magic. Harry smiled at the feeling of it brushing his skin.

The feeling was different this time. It was a burning sensation. Not painful. Just…odd. It wasn’t like anything he had ever felt before. It seemed to go on forever, never getting hotter but not letting up either. Finally, there was a fading in Quinn’s magic and the burning sensation began to fade. Once it was gone, Harry blinked. It was like a weight he hadn’t known was there had faded with the heat. “Harry?”

“I feel good,” Harry responded. “Can I get up?”

“Yes, just be careful. You’ve been down for a long time.”

Harry blinked. Again, he knew it had been a while but he didn’t think it had been that long. He sat up slowly, groaning as his muscles protested. Okay, it had been longer than he thought. Before he struggled to his feet, Theo was at his side, helping him stand and letting him lean against him. “Everything okay?”

Harry slowly nodded. “Yeah. I feel…lighter. Better. I didn’t even know I felt bad.”

Quinn snorted. You’ll feel even better when we get the magic binding off of you. We don’t want to risk it today but if you’re still feeling well in the morning, we should be able to remove it.

Harry nodded quickly. If he felt this good only getting rid of two of the seals, how was he going to feel with the rest of them off? The sooner he could get rid of them, the better. “Alright, let’s get you home, Treasure. Anything we need to watch out for tonight?”

Quinn shook his head. He should rest when he gets home. A good dinner. Harry and Theo both rolled their eyes and Quinn smiled. But I’ll be there to monitor him. He should be fine.

“Then we’ll see you soon,” Theo responded. He turned to Sarajini. “Thank you for all your help.”

“Of course! I’m sure that I’ll see the two of you in the morning.”

The rest of Harry’s bonded were waiting out on the grounds for Harry and Theo to join them. Harry found himself being passed around from bonded to bonded, all of them seeming to want to make sure that he was alright. Even Alec was there. “You’re here!” Harry gasped in surprise as he was pulled into cool arms.

“Just making sure you didn’t end up in some sort of trouble,” Alec responded, tugging on Harry’s earlobe. Harry shook his head to dislodge him. “I guess everything worked the way it was supposed to?”

“No issues,” Theo agreed. “They said that they will probably be able to remove the magical block in the morning, as long as he’s still feeling well. Quinn said to make sure he gets some rest.”

“Then we should return to the beach house,” Ethan said quickly. He eyed Harry. “I’m sure Harry could do with a nap anyway. Healing always takes a lot out of you.”

Harry shook his head. “I feel great. Not tired at all.”

Ethan looked like he was going to protest, but Minh pulled Harry toward him, earning a glare from Alec. “Rest doesn’t necessarily mean sleep. We live in a beach house but none of us have really spent time on the beach. Why don’t we do that this afternoon? Harry can rest in the sun.”

There were mutters of agreement at the suggestion and Theo nodded. “That sounds like a good plan. But you’re going to explain to Quinn if he doesn’t agree.” Minh didn’t seem worried about the possibility of angering their resident healer. Harry was just happy that he wasn’t going to be forced to go lay in bed.

He really did feel better than he had in years. He wondered just how different he was going to feel after the next days seal removal. He was actually looking forward to it.

Chapter Text

Harry couldn’t stop the happy trill that escaped him when he spread out on the blanket that Ethan had placed on the warm sand. He felt good. Definitely better than he had in years. He was cautiously optimistic about how he would feel once the other seals were removed. There were fond chuckles surrounding him at the sound and many of his bonded fell on the blankets they had brought, a couple just sat in the sand. Bran was careful not to actually touch Harry as he sank down beside him on the blanket. Theo sat down behind him and gently lifted Harry’s head so that it rested in the alpha’s lap. Harry smiled slightly and closed his eyes as Theo’s fingers slowly began to weave themselves through Harry’s hair.

“Sorry, my family can be overwhelming at times,” Ethan said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. “We probably should had met them when we didn’t have a lot going on. With that and the seal breaking today, you’re probably exhausted.”

There were instant sounds of protest and Harry opened his eyes to frown at the pareya. “They weren’t! It was just…just me. I just…” Harry sighed and threw a hand over his eyes. He felt guilty that he had upset everyone. Again. “I was having fun and really enjoyed meeting everyone.”

Theo gently removed Harry’s arm from over his face and began to stroke Harry’s hair once more. “We’re glad you were having fun, Treasure. We just wish we knew why you stopped.”

Harry hesitated, not wanting to start another fight when it seemed like they were all going to have a good afternoon, but everyone was watching him. None of them seemed really upset. Hesitantly, he started, “I just felt kind of guilty that I’m here, having a good time and my friends aren’t.” He admitted. Many of his bonded exchanged looks but no one seemed to be angry with him or what he was saying. “I know you said time is different here and they have probably barely noticed that I’m not there, but what if something happens while I’m here? They were already in the hospital wing. What if someone is hurt? And then there’s the prophesy…”

Harry broke off and winced as Bran sat up abruptly. His youngest bonded always seemed upset when the prophesy was brought up and Harry really, really did not want to upset anyone right then. “Harry, I wasn’t exaggerating when I said my family is known for prophesies. Beings from all different realms come to speak with members of my family about different prophesies and what they could mean. My family is really well-known and all of us receive training, even those of us that don’t have that particular gift,” he shrugged his shoulders and motioned to himself. “I promise that prophesies are never as straight forward as they seem. The thing that makes this prophesy so dangerous is that you have two people on Earth that are taking it at face value. Even if it was so easy to interpret, no one should be relying on a 15-year-old to fight a war for them. Having you here is the safest and smartest option. Once my mam returns, we can talk to her. But until then, the best thing is to act like the prophesy doesn’t exist.”

Harry understood what Bran was saying but that really did not change the fact that it did exist. “But what if-“

“Plus,” Theo cut in smoothly. “Hadrian beheaded Voldemort in the Department of Mysteries. The first time he was defeated, it took him thirteen years to be reborn. And, if I remember correctly, he needed you to do so. Is that right?” Slowly, Harry nodded. “Right. So, it took him thirteen years to figure out and, even if he can replicate what he did last year, he can’t do it without you. So, staying here in a completely different realm, is the best way to keep you and everyone else safe.”

Harry blinked for a moment before staring up into Theo’s golden eyes. That was right. And something that Harry had not thought of. “The Death Eaters-“

Theo tilted his head. “Many that were in the Department of Mysteries are dead. Those that survived were arrested. You think any that weren’t are going to do something? They never did for those thirteen years. None of them are going to risk Azkaban without Voldemort.”

“Dumbledore-“

“Harry, Dumbledore is a grown man that has fought in multiple wars. He knows better than to rely on a fifteen-year-old.” The sighed. “But none of us are saying to forget it completely. We just want to speak with Bran’s family and figure out the best course of action. Come up with a plan that keeps everyone safe.”

“I’d also like to bring the matter to Aiden,” Hadrian said, only to receive confuse and questioning looks from many of the circle. “He’s the head of Death’s Court, the first hell hound. Someone returning from the dead, taking measures so they can’t die is something he needs to know about.”

Theo nodded slowly. “Alright. We can add it to our list.” He gave a wry smile. “That list just seems to keep getting longer and longer.”

Many of the group chuckled and Harry felt his tense muscles slowly start to relax as he thought over what he had just been told. Why hadn’t he thought of the fact that Voldemort would need his blood to return? Why hadn’t Dumbledore? Dumbledore had seemed so disappointed when Harry said he was going to Nevarah. Shouldn’t he have been telling Harry to go so they could put off Voldemort’s return? Or maybe there were even more things that were being kept from him. Things Dumbledore just had not gotten around to tell him yet.

Harry pushed the thought away and glanced down to where some of his bonded had gone to play some sort of game. He hadn’t even noticed them leaving. He had no idea where they had got the ball or what it was they were doing, but they seemed to be having fun. He sighed and closed his eyes once again. No, he wasn’t going to worry about it any longer. He’d focus on his bonded, on helping Sirius get well, and on removing the rest of the seals. They could meet with Bran’s family and this Aiden person, then come up with a plan. Hopefully they could stop Voldemort from ever being able to return and then they would never have to deal with it again. After that, they could truly focus on just…living.

Harry’s eyes opened as a cool body rested against his own. He gave Alec a small smile as the Merrow slid their fingers together. “You landwalkers should be careful,” he muttered, narrowing his eyes as he studied Harry’s face. “You’re burning.”

Ethan tutted loudly and Harry felt his familiar magic wash over him just a second later. Harry sent him a thankful smile. Quinn stood and motioned to where the gheyo’s were playing their game. Ethan nodded and stood as well. Bran shook his head and closed his eyes, obviously deciding it was time for a nap. Harry looked at him fondly. Even Ron didn’t sleep that much. “Theo? Ariki?” Ethan questioned.

Harry saw Theo’s eyes flicker to him for a second and he couldn’t help but roll his own. He sat up and motioned for Theo to follow Ethan and Quinn. “Go. I’m under strict orders to rest,” he sent a teasing smile in Quinn’s direction. “And I’m sure Alec wont mind keeping me and Bran company.” Alec snorted but shifted so Harry could lean against him more fully. “You two need more time with the others anyway. Without me.” Harry’s eyes landed on Blaise, who was standing with his hands on his hips as he said something to Wikhn. Maybe this was a good start for him and Theo to work out whatever was going on between them.

Theo followed his gaze and frowned questioningly, but did not argue when Ariki grabbed his hands and hoisted him to his feet. “Yell if you need anything.”

Harry nodded and watched as the four joined the others. Theo instantly gravitated toward Blaise, who turned his attention to the alpha without a thought. “Something to share?” Alec questioned.

Harry sighed and shared his worry about Theo and Blaise. During his explanation, Bran’s eyes opened and the younger dragel sat up. “I just don’t want to come between them,” Harry finally finished, laughing lightly when Blaise tackled Theo and the usual stoic alpha began to laugh.

“I don’t think you need to worry about that,” Bran said, also watching the two. “I think they’re both just settling in to their roles at the moment and focusing on getting to know you. Once things calm down, they’ll be more relaxed and spend more time together.”

“And if they do have a soulbond, it’ll make itself known soon enough,” Alec agreed. “No reason to worry as of now. Though,” he turned to face Harry and raised his eyebrows. “You seem to worry a lot. About everything. You should stop that.”

Harry glared as Bran started laughing. Alec shrugged his shoulders at the look and squeezed Harry’s hand lightly. “I’m going to need to get you in the water at some point. Make sure you live up to being a Merrow’s submissive.”

Harry winced. “You’ll be disappointed. I only learned to swim last year because of the tournament. I’m kind of a mess, actually.”

“What tournament?”

Well, that wasn’t something Harry really wanted to get into. “Hogwarts and two other schools had this tournament and each school had a representative. There were three tasks – the second was in the Great Lake. I had to learn to swim really quickly.” Bran shot him a look and Harry flushed. He had forgotten the other boy had seen his memories.

“What was the task?”

Harry turned his attention back to the game. “The clue said they took something we value and had an hour to find it or they would keep it forever.”

“They?”

“The mer-folk,” Harry admitted. “They took my friend, Ron. But another friend of mine gave me Gillyweed so I could breathe under the water and it gave me webbed hands and feet, so it was a lot easier to swim. Without it, I probably would have failed.”

Harry felt Alec tense and when he turned to look, the man had frozen. “Alec?” Bran leaned forward to see around Harry, concern clear on his face.

Alec’s head slowly turned till he met Harry’s eyes. “Your school had mer-folk in the lake?”

“Uh, yeah?”

“And they were part of this…tournament?”

“…yes?”

“Where did you find your friend?”

“Huh? Uh, he was in the city. Tied up. There were all these guards around with tridents.”

Alec blinked a few times. “And they let you and the other people just swim in?”

Harry really felt as if he was missing something. At least he wasn’t the only one. Bran seemed just as confused. “Yeah. I mean, they got upset when I untied more than just Ron, but otherwise it was fine.”

Alec’s jaw clenched. “Was that the only time you saw them?”

Harry frowned as he thought back. “Um, we’d see them sometimes when we sat beside the lake, but they never came close. Oh! Some of the Slytherin’s used to say they saw them in the windows.”

“Windows?”

“Yeah! The Slytherin common room was in the dungeon and the windows looked out into the lake. You’d have to ask Theo or Blaise about it more. I was in Gryffindor. Our rooms were in a tower.”

Alec’s brows furrowed. “I might do that.” He looked at the two in question, as did Harry and Bran. Both boys stiffened, as if they could feel they were being watched, and slowly turned their heads to look in Harry’s direction. When they saw the three watching them, Theo instantly started back up the beach in their direction but stopped when Blaise put his hand on his arm. They spoke for a second, then Theo turned back to the game and Blaise walked toward them. He gave the three of them a charming grin as he sat beside Bran. “Something I can help you with?”

“Harry was talking about going into the Great Lake during the tournament last year,” Bran explained when Harry took too long to do so. The smile slid off of Blaise’s face at the words, his expression instead turning to worry as his eyes flickered toward Harry. “He told Alec about the mer-people and Alec was asking if you guys saw them often. Harry said he thought you and Theo might know more?”

Blaise hummed and stretched out his legs. “Our common room looked out into the lake. The mer-people would look in the windows at times. Sometimes, they would ask us to throw certain foods in the lake.”

“What?” Harry asked, startled. “How did they do that?”

“We learn sign in our first year,” Blaise responded, signing as he spoke. “Sometimes they’d strike up a conversation, but that’s usually only with the little ones. I’m pretty sure they’d spy on the common room and report to Snape if they caught us doing something we shouldn’t.” Alec seemed to be getting more upset…angry?...the more Blaise spoke. “Everything alright?”

Alec gave a murderous grin. “Fine. Just wondering how long it’s going to take to clean this up.” At the confused looks, he waved his hand. “Never mind. I’ll deal with it tomorrow after I speak with my cousin.”

“Cousin?”

Alec waved his hand again. “Anyway, we’ll have to work on your swimming on a day you aren’t supposed to be resting.”

“Work on your swimming? You did fine during the task.”

So, Harry once again had to explain about the Gillyweed. Blaise stared at him with wide eyes. “You went in without even knowing if it would work? Theo’s going to throw a fit when he finds out.”

Harry gave the joker a dubious look. “throwing a fit” did not seem like Theo’s style. Blaise laughed at the look. “Well, he’ll lecture and give you a hundred different options of things you could have done differently, then he’ll make you promise not to do it again.” Harry and Bran laughed in delight as Alec shook his head with a smirk.

“He won’t do it again because I’m going to make sure he can swim.”

“That still wouldn’t have helped me with the breathing under water thing,” Harry pointed out.

Alec rolled his eyes. “I can help with that too. Just not today.” He eyed those that were playing the game on the beach. “I don’t even want to know what sort of retaliation your healer would come up with if I ignored his orders.”

Chapter Text

Harry shouldn’t have been surprised when Alec hugged him the next morning and said he had to return to court. Not after the way he had reacted the day before. Someday, Harry was going to get him to admit what he really did at the Merrow court. Apparently, today was not going to be that day.

“Just tug on the bond if something goes wrong,” he muttered as he tugged on Harry’s ear. He glanced at Quinn. “I’m sure it will be fine.”

Quinn nodded. It’ll be another easy one. We just couldn’t do them all on the same day. He’ll need to rest again after.

Harry scrunched up his nose as Alec nodded. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t enjoyed their time at the beach yesterday, he just felt like there were other, more important things they could be doing. They would have plenty of time in the future to lounge on the beach or whatever else they wanted to do.

“I’m not sure when I’ll be back,” Alec told him. “Depends on how things go.”

Harry’s brows furrowed. “What exactly-“

Alec shot him a grin and slipped out the door before Harry could finish the question. Harry sighed as the others chuckled at the Merrow’s antics. “What is happening?” Theo questioned as he wrapped his arm around Harry’s waist and urged him into the chair next to his own.

Harry shrugged and explained the conversation he had with Alec the day before. Theo hummed, a contemplative look on his face. “I’m sure he’ll tell us if we need to know.” He smiled at Quinn when the healer placed a plate of food in front of him. Harry did the same, though he noticed that his plate looked to be different than those around him.

Best for you to eat light, Quinn told him as he slid into the open seat on Harry’s left. We aren’t expecting any sort of push back today, but it could still make you a bit nauseous.

Harry nodded and happily picked up a piece of fruit. Honestly, this breakfast was more along the lines of what he’d usually eat when he returned to Hogwarts after break. If he ate more or anything too heavy, he’d just start feeling sick. “I assume we’re going to have another easy day after we see your family?” Ariki asked Quinn, politely avoiding the words ‘bed rest’. Harry snorted.

Quinn smiled slightly, then nodded his head. We really don’t know for sure how this will affect him, so it’s best to plan to stay home and relax.

“Sounds good to me,” Bran commented as he finished the food in front of him and pushed his plate away. “I like the relaxing days. I’m going to have to go back to school eventually and then I’ll have a lot to do.”

There was a pause for a moment as everyone processed the words, then Theo sighed. “Right. That’s something we’re going to have to talk about at some point.” He looked at Harry, then Blaise, then finally Bran. “If you could get me some information about your school, it would be appreciated.”

Bran nodded but Hadrian shook his head. “There are schools for gheyos once they’ve presented. Blaise would be better off at one of those.”

Blaise frowned but didn’t protest. Ethan saw his expression and cut in, “most schools end up separating people by their dynamic after they have inherited. I learned all of the normal subjects but had other class for pareya’s as well. Even if Theo and Harry go to the same school, they most likely wont have any classes together.”

Theo frowned at being included and Harry’s brows furrowed. Had he not been planning on going back to school? And, why were they so certain they wouldn’t be returning to Hogwarts? Wasn’t that something they should talk about?

We can discuss it later, Quinn said, most likely having seen Theo and Harry’s expressions. We still have a couple of weeks left in out approved bonding time.

There were a few nods around them room. Harry sighed. It wasn’t as if he was trying to be difficult. It was just hard for him to imagine going to school somewhere other than Hogwarts. Hogwarts was his home. Though…he looked around the room and felt happiness well in his chest. He might have to rethink what home meant to him now. He had heard people say that home didn’t have to be a place. It could be a person. Maybe his home was a group of people.

Though…

“Is it really okay for us to be staying this long?” he asked.

Theo’s eyes closed briefly and many of the others looked exasperated. “Harry, I know you want to go back to –“

“No, not here like Nevarah! Here like the beach house. I know they said it was okay, but shouldn’t we be looking for something so they can use it?”

Theo blinked and Ariki leaned forward. “Harry, I promise no one in my family will be upset if it takes us some time to move out of the beach house. But we haven’t really been looking because…”

He trailed off and Theo lightly held Harry’s hand. “You’ve been a bit upset at the thought of us staying, Treasure. We didn’t want tot push.”

Harry flushed at the words. Right. “Oh, I, er, well, I do want to go back. But not forever! I mean, all your families and jobs are here. I just want to make sure everything is safe back on Earth. But what you said yesterday makes sense. That me not being there actually helps keep them safe because Voldemort cant come back. So, I guess I’d be okay with it. Us looking, I mean.”

Smiles erupted around the room and Harry couldn’t stop his own happy trill at how excited his bondmates seemed to be. “That’s great! We should make a list!” Minh said loudly.

Idan’s eyebrows rose. “A list?”

“Of the things we want in the house! Obviously, somewhere where all of us will feel comfortable. A place to grow, since we know there’s more bonds. Training grounds…”

Theo nodded. “Maybe everyone write down things they’d like and we’ll go over them. See what we cant do without and what we would just enjoy.”

“It’ll be difficult to find something that caters to so many elements,” Ethan put in. “It might take some time.”

“We’d best look for something for all elements,” Theo sighed.

“All? With Alec?” Ariki questioned.

Theo smirked and shook his head. “It’s Harry.”

Harry wondered if he should feel insulted…and what they even meant by that. “What does Alec have to do with anything?”

There were light chuckles. Bran reached over to steal a piece of fruit off of Harry’s plate, earning a glare from Quinn. The healer pointedly picked up some fruit in the middle of the table and placed it on the youngest dragels plate. Bran ignored him. “Merrow don’t really do well with fire types. Water and fire, you know? Most merrow wont even consider a circle if there’s a fire element.”

Harry frowned. For some reason, he didn’t like that. “But Alec’s already part of the circle.”

“Which means he cant escape, no matter who you bond to!” Bran ignored the disapproving looks he earned for those words. “You’ll just have to make sure he doesn’t kill any fire types if they to court you.”

“Kill?” Harry squeaked. He looked at Theo, hoping the older boy would contradict the words, but Theo grimaced.

“We’ll make sure he doesn’t kill anyone.”

Harry looked around the room in disbelief. They were all acting like Alec killing someone was perfectly normal. “No one’s killing anyone!”

He slumped at the looks he received. Theo pat his hand. “Don’t worry about it. We’ll only tell you the basics.”

“That doesn’t make me feel better!”

*** ***

Harry found himself wrapped in a tight embrace the moment he stepped out of the portal. “How are you feeling?” Sarajini asked brightly as she took a step back and gave him a brief look over.

Harry nodded. “I feel great! Truthfully, I didn’t even know I felt bad until we got those off yesterday.”

Sarajini smiled, pleased. “Good. You’ll feel even better after today. I suppose you all are going to be hanging around?” she asked, glancing at Harry’s bondmates with a teasing expression.

Theo moved forward and bowed his head slightly. “If that’s alright. We’d rather be close.”

Sarajini laughed lightly. “Of course! With it being a new bond, and a soulscream one at that, all of you are probably going to remain on edge until we manage to get all the seals off of him. Feel free to wander. Only Quinn and I can be in the ritual room.”

Theo nodded to show he understood btu all of Harry’s circle followed them to the ritual space. “We’ll wait out here,” Ariki said cheerfully, placing a quick kiss on Harry’s cheek. Harry flushed but did not protest as all of his bonded moved toward him, either giving him a tight hug or a kiss on the cheek.

“It shouldn’t take too long,” Sarajini commented as Bran was pried away from Harry by a smiling Ethan. “Maybe an hour or so.” Theo nodded again. Harry jumped, startled, when an arm wrapped around him. He looked up into Quinn’s teal eyes.

Ready?

Harry nodded and gave the members of his circle a smile, before following Quinn into the room. “Alright, Harry. Same as yesterday.”

The process seemed to go quicker this time, like Harry’s magic was doing what it could to help. It wanted that seal gone and Harry could feel it. Finally, something inside Harry seemed to snap and he felt a massive wave of magic flow through him. He heard Sarajini loudly  say something and Quinn shuffled toward him, but all Harry could do was lay there as he tried to process everything that was happening. His magic felt happy as it seemed to fill the room. He could actually feel the shock coming from Sarajini and Quinn, like it was his own. Reaching out further, he could feel Theo’s astonishment and fondness, Ethan’s bewilderment, Bran’s delight… the list went on and on.

It was amazing.

It was freeing.

It was…overwhelming.

So many emotions flooded through him. Harry somehow knew that they weren’t his own but he couldn’t control it. He gasped as fear began to rise. He heard Sarajini say something but he couldn’t make out the words. Then…

…then it stopped.

The only emotions Harry felt were his own.

Quinn was beside him in an instant, pulling him into a tight hug. “What happened?” Harry asked. His magic was still there, still more powerful than it had ever been, but it seemed more subdued than it had moments ago.

“That was your nameless talent,” Sarajini explained, urging Quinn away from Harry so she could run a diagnostic. “You, my dear, are an empath., The rush of magic and your ability all arrived at once and overwhelmed you slightly. Quinn placed a dampening charm on you for the moment. I’d advise using it when you are out and about until you can control your empathy. Other than that, everything went as planned. Are you feeling alright?”

Harry did a quick inventory. Again, he felt…different, but in a good way. No pain or anything. “Fine.”

“Good. Now, we best get you to the rest of your circle. I’m sure they felt that and are probably a bit worried.”

Quinn snorted. A bit? His mother rolled her eyes and ushered the two of them out to where Harry’s circle were waiting. The gheyo’s were tense, many with hands on one or more of their weapons. Ehtan was holding Bran. Ariki seemed to be talking to an agitated Theo. And Alec-

“Alec? What are you doing here? I thought you had to work?”

Everyone turned at the sound of Harry’s voice. Theo jerked away from Ariki and pulled Harry toward him, looking him over quickly as the others moved to do the same. Alec’s brows rose. “After that wave of energy? Of course I came. I had to see what kind of trouble you got yourself into this time.” He turned to Quinn. “I thought this was going to be easy?”

“Nothing to worry about,” Sarajini chirped. “Harry had a bit more magic than expected and his talent appeared when the seal was removed.”

“Talent?” Theo asked.

“He’s an empath,” she responded. “Quinn placed a dampener on him for now. He should use it in crowds until he learns to control it. It seems to be very powerful.” Her brows furrowed. “If I remember correctly, one of the Evanson circle is said to be a powerful empath. You might mention it to them when you discuss the rune seal removal.”

The sighed as his lips twitched. “I’ll add it to the list.”

Chapter Text

Harry honestly had never felt so…anxious in his life.

It was like a thousand ants were crawling under his skin. His brain wouldn’t stop going in a way he had never experienced. And all these emotions were just…he didn’t even know if what he was feeling was his or if they belonged to someone else. He was once again thinking about the prophesy and wondering if they were spending too long just…not doing anything. He understood where his bondmates were coming from, he knew that time was different, he knew that they needed more information before they made a move. Logically, he knew all of that.

But he was worried about his friends.

What if they decided that he had abandoned him and tried to fight without him? Ron wasn’t the most patient person. Hermione could probably hold him back if needed, but she could be just as hardheaded when she believed she was right about something. What if Dumbledore told them about the prophesy and she decided to try and destroy Voldemort so Harry didn’t have to? To protect him? That sounded like something that she would do. And he wasn’t even sure they were fully recovered yet. What if there were some complications after what happened in the Ministry and they were still injured?

He tried to keep all of the worrying to himself, but apparently when you’re an empath, especially an untrained one, it was difficult to do. He could feel other peoples emotions, but he could also send out his own. That was something that hadn’t been mentioned and he learned about it when he had every single one of his bonded anxious and irritated so that they were snapping at one another. Quinn finally realized what was happening when Alec almost stabbed Minh when the gheyo teased him about a small tear in his wetsuit.

It was an overreaction, even for a merrow.

Quinn was quick to place a dampening spell and the room had basically sighed in relief. Harry apologized profusely once they realized what happened, but that had not helped the situation because now all of his bondmates knew exactly how upset and stressed Harry was. He wasn’t able to hide it nearly as easily as he could before his empathy came in. So now, they were all tiptoeing around him in a way that made him want to throw something or tear his hair out.

He just…needed to do something. Anything.

“Ma said we can come visit this afternoon,” Bran announced loudly as he entered the resting room. Harry instantly sat up in excitement. Finally! It had been over a week since his empathy was released and he really could not stand doing nothing any longer. They had been waiting for Bran’s ma to physically return to Nevarah….which Harry was still confused about but he wasn’t really going to question it.

“Finally,” Minh huffed, then whined when Idan smacked him in the back of the head.

Bran ignored him and focused on Harry. “I told her that there was a prophesy about you on Earth but I did not tell her what it said or what that…what Dumbledore interpreted it to mean. We’ll tell her the prophesy when we get there and we’ll see what she says. Alright?”

Harry nodded and kept his mouth firmly shut. He knew that Bran- and most of his bondmates – did not have a high opinion of Dumbledore. Harry still did not really understand why. The man was the leader of the light. He had destroyed one of the greatest dark wizards in history and had the other afraid of him. He ran the greatest school in the wizarding world. Surely that all meant something? He always treated Harry kindly. He had even kept his fathers cloak for him! But…but Bran knew all of that. He had seen all of Harry’s memories.

So what was it that Bran saw that Harry didn’t? Or was it that Harry understood Dumbledore in a way that Bran couldn’t?

“We’ll head out right after lunch,” Theo informed those that were still in the room with Harry. Harry had been having a late morning and many of his bondmates had decided to join him. “Quinn is planning on having it a bit early since most of you skipped breakfast.” He sent an admonishing look Harry’s way, but Harry just grinned at him in response. Theo rolled his eyes. “I’ll send a message to Alec and see if he wants to join us.”

With that, Harry and the rest of his lazy bonded finally rolled out of the bed and got ready for the day. Bran was radiating happiness at the thought of going to see his family and Harry smiled at him fondly as the younger dragel literally bounced on his toes as he spoke to Quinn. Quinn was watching the younger in amusement, nodding his head along with whatever it was Bran was rambling about. Blaise seemed to be just as entertained with the scene as Harry, his lips quirked up into a smirk as his eyes lingered on them. Harry almost purred at the sight. He liked the fact that his bonded were getting along so well. It made him hopeful that some of them might bond to one another in the future. Especially Blaise. He felt like Blaise needed a lot of people in his corner.

Of course, the first in that corner should be Theo and Harry was still trying to figure out how to make the two of them realize they should bond.

Maybe after they talked to Bran’s ma.

Harry was quick to eat everything that Quinn placed on his plate, even though his stomach protested the larger portion. They had slowly been working to get him to eat a more ‘normal’ sized plate and if Harry pushed back, it would just take them longer for them to leave. So, he quickly shoveled the food into his mouth until the plate was clean, then leaned back and watched as his other bondmates finished their own meals. Theo shook his head when he saw the uncomfortable expression on Harry’s face, but he didn’t say anything. That was good. Harry probably would have snapped back if he had.

“Alright,” Theo sighed as he finished his meal. He had been the last to do so. Harry was pretty sure his alpha had purposely moved as slow as he could without being called out just to torture Harry even more. “Let’s all circle up and port over to the Kadel’s. Alec said to tug on the bond once we were there and he’d meet us,” Theo informed Harry.

Harry nodded to show he understood and Hadrian wrapped a tight arm around his waist. Harry leaned back against the broad chest and let out a sigh. He wondered if he would ever be allowed to port without someone holding onto him. His bonded all seemed to be convinced that if they didn’t, he would end up breaking the portal and falling from the sky. Which… yeah, okay, he could understand their worry. Still, it was a bit irritating.

Not that he was upset about being held by his bonded. That part was fine.

More than fine.

Good, actually.

Harry blushed at his thoughts and more than one of his bonded gave him raised eyebrows or wicked grins. He groaned and quickly slammed his shields down. He and Quinn had been working on his shielding for the past week but Harry had to focus to keep them up. Eventually, Quinn assured him it would be second nature and he wouldn’t even think about it. Until then, he was going to have to have these embarrassing moments.

Theo’s lip twitched before he opened the portal and the group disappeared from the beach house and arrived to the Kadel estate where there was a large group of people waiting for them. “Ma!” Bran yelled out, stepping away from Ethan and holding fast to the woman standing in front of them group.

“My love,” the woman responded, running a hand through Bran’s hair and smiling down at him before hugging him close. Harry felt a deep longing at the sight. He had never had something like that but he hoped one day that he would. Maybe he would bond with one of his bonded’s parents. Or maybe it would be with one of his own children. He just hoped that he would have that familial connection one day. “Welcome to the Kadel household. Thank you for taking such good care of our Bran.”

“Of course,” Theo said, stepping forward and bowing his head. “I am Theodore Gorgens-Nott, Alpha. This is my beta, Ariki Deveraine. And our submissive, Harry Potter.”

Harry bowed his head and stepped forward slowly. He still had no idea how these things were really supposed to go. They still hadn’t heard anything about a mentor and he felt like he messed things up every time he tried. “A nice circle,” the woman said softly. “One that will be growing. You have open soulbonds,” she commented. Harry blinked. He and his bonded knew that, of course, but this woman could tell just by looking at him? Quinn hadn’t even been able to do that!

“Yes,” Theo gave a wry smile. “Harry has many seals placed on him and one of them stopped a full soulscream. Any who had protections-“

“-were not called,” Bran’s ma nodded. She studied Harry for a moment and nodded her head. “Yes, there are many things for us to speak of. Come, Harry. Let us see what we can do.” She held out an arm but left the other around Bran. Harry hesitantly stepped closer and flinched slightly as that arm moved around his waist. She didn’t mention the action, only urged himself and Bran into the large home and down a hall. Harry glanced backward to make sure that his bonded were following close behind. They were. Even Alec was close.

They entered a large room that reminded Harry of the divination classroom at Hogwarts but more homey. Maia nodded toward the large cushions on the floor. “You may all choose a seat. Harry, you sit here.” She led him to a cushion in front of a large scrying globe. She sat in the cushion on the other side of him, a pipe appearing in her hand. Harry was afraid he would start to cough as she breathed out smoke but it was surprisingly pleasant. Nothing like the cigarette smoke from back home. He wondered what it was. “Now, Bran has told me that there is a prophesy believed to be about you on Earth. That is very surprising – there have been very few true prophesies on that realm. Oh, there are little ones that don’t mean much, but a true prophesy? Only a handful.” She tilted he head. “You are worried because of this prophesy. It frightens you.”

Harry felt like a golf ball was stuck in his throat. He nodded and willed himself not to cry. “It does,” he admitted lowly. He saw many of his bonded shift from the corner of his eye. They probably wanted to comfort him. One look from Maia had them freezing.

She held out her hand. Harry slowly placed his own hand in her own, not surprised at how strong her hands seemed to be despite how delicate the looked. “Think of the prophesy. Only the words. Nothing more.”

Harry closed his eyes an took a deep breath, then thought of the words Dumbledore had told them only a few weeks ago. Once finished, he opened his eyes. Maia’s eyes had gone a milky white and she was staring above his head. Her hands were tight around his own. They tightened even further, enough that Harry bit back a cry, before going slack and falling away completely. Maia blinked and the white slowly began to fade. She took a deep drag from her pipe, then focused on Harry once more. She gave him a look of apology. “Sorry. I’m sure your healer can take care of your hands.” Quinn, who must have been waiting for permission, was beside him in an instant. Harry gave the blonde a smile when the teal magic washed over him and the pain instantly faded. Quinn smiled back before going back to his cushion.

“There is a prophesy,” Maia stated, her voice somewhat distant and holding a familiar quality. It reminded Harry of Luna when she started talking about her creatures. Or right before he left and she had said that he would be happy. “One that is tied to you. However, much of it has already been fulfilled. A prophesy cannot go uncompleted. It is either avoided completely or finished. Fate will always find a way.” She focused on Harry once more. “However, there are more forces at play and what appears to be not always is. I cannot say more than that in regards to the prophesy.”

She took another deep inhale from her pipe and slowly let it out.  “However, there is something else I must convey. Attached to the prophesy seal is a soul seal, as I’m sure you are aware,” she glanced at Quinn, how nodded. “Behind that soul seal is something hidden. Something that needs to be removed before you focus on the prophesy. A shard of a soul.”

The uproar was instant. Harry blinked, trying to process the words. A shard of a soul? What did that even mean? “Wh-“ he stammered as his bonded spoke over one another, attempting to be heard. Maia took another deep inhale.

“The ritual this man used to bring himself back,” she started, her voice low enough that his bonded fell silent so they could hear her. “Only worked because he used a dark, ancient curse to cut his soul. If death’s court was aware, they would find and hunt those shards down to destroy them. The only reason they have not is because we have been…neglectful when it comes to Earth. We believed that most of our kind did not reside on the realm, so we were content to let them be. I am starting to believe that was a mistake,” she frowned. “It is something I will have to speak with some others about. Never the less, the man of the ritual broke his soul so many times that he accidently left a piece of it inside you. It will need to be removed. Very, very carefully.”

Harry was going to throw up.

Voldemort had broke his soul. Torn it apart. And he left a piece of it inside Harry. Did…did that mean that he was influencing Harry? Was that why Harry had always seen so much of himself in Voldemort?

Was Harry even Harry?

“It is trapped behind the seal,” Maia said firmly, looking at Harry with soft but determined eyes. “I believe that your own magic created the seal to keep it locked away. I know of someone that will be able to remove the shard and the seal safely, but they are currently offrealm. I will send them a message to return as quickly as possible so they can complete the ritual.” She turned her focus toward Harry’s bonded. “You – reaper. You will be needed once the shard is released.” Hadrian bowed his head in acknowledgement, his hand tight on the knife at his side. Harry knew it was taking everything he had not to rush in and try to destroy the piece now. “However, this piece is very small. Much too small for this…man…to have only broken his soul two or three times. To truly destroy him, all of the pieces must be sent to Death.”

Theo turned to Hadrian. He was furious in a way Harry had never seen from his alpha. “It’s time to start a hunt.”

Hadrian’s lips twisted into a bloodthirsty grin. “I thought you’d never ask.”