This chapter was betaed by the wonderful brissygirl to provide a smoother reading experience. All remaining mistakes are my own. See first chapter for disclaimers/additional warnings/summaries.

RECAP:Dyshoka, Dahlia and Kyle have a bit of pillow talk, after Dyshoka returns from her visit with Quinn. With nowhere to go after leaving Aiden's court, Theo and Co. take up an offer of hospitality from Quinn Kalizk. Once Harry and Co. are safely ensconced at one of the Kalzik Guesthouses with Quinn Kalzik watching over them. Quinn cooks them breakfast and contemplates his reasons for doing so. George has a bad reaction to Harry's anchoring to Nevarah and Jun and Co. scramble to make sure he's alright. Harry and Maury have a chat in Harry's mindscape about dragel life. Hermione meets up with Gideon and Fabian and is invited to stay with their Circle. Dumbledore discovers that the Torvak Weasleys are missing.

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HADRIAN – IN WHICH A GREAT DEAL OF THINKING AND TALKING IS NECESSARY

"You'd better go," his ACE said, uncomfortably. "I know you don't want to and I won't lie and tell you that things will be better with time, but if you don't go now—I don't think you'll be able survive our ladyship and hunting for Death's Hallows."

Hadrian grimaced. As much as he loathed the current dungeon—proof that Lord Cunningham wasactually upset with him—there was a definite kernel of truth in older Gheyo's words.

"Running will make it worse," said one of the Vega twins from their position on the dungeon stairs. "And then you'll have both of them to contend with when you return. You will have to return you know."

"If they don't hunt him first," said the other twin. "Might not live through that. I think her ladyship would be beyond furious."

"And so will I if he's brainless enough to listen to you lot," Lord Cunningham said, darkly. "What part of leave him to his own devices was so difficult to follow?"

Silence reigned for a moment, then all three Gheyos immediately 'ported out.

Lord Cunningham sighed. Loudly. "Remind me to ground them when I see them again. You love making things difficult for yourself," he told Hadrian. Making his way down the dungeon stairs, he came to stand in front of the shackled ACE. "Your problem is that you don't question anything and that kind of complacency will cost your life in a moment where you should have seen the end coming."

Hadrian twitched, faintly. "...I'd rather not be lectured," he said, at last.

Another sigh filled the cell. Lord Cunningham clicked his fingers and the shackles opened, allowing Hadrian to drop down to his feet. "How's your shoulders?"

"...better." The stretch had helped, even if he didn't want to admit it.

"You're a Reaper. You should know how to take care of yourself before the Scythe starts doing it for you. The end result is quite ugly."

Hadrian shrugged and winced at the movement.

Lord Cunningham merely perked a brow.

This time, it was Hadrian that sighed. He shuffled over until he was within arms' reach, then listed forward. He was caught by those impossibly strong arms and allowed to stand there, head on the Alpha's shoulders, his worries draining away.

"...I need your help," he said, softly. Ever so softly. "I don't have enough time to do this myself and the end result—he doesn't deserve that."

Lord Cunningham combed a hand through Hadrian's dirty hair. "How do we ask for what we want?" he prompted.

"...nicely."

"Then ask."

Hadrian took a shuddering breath. The inner war was waged, fought and lost in a matter of seconds. This was for Harry and for that precious soul behind those brilliant emerald eyes, he'd do anything. His knees buckled. "Please, Alpha?"

Lord Cunningham tipped Hadrian's chin up with one gloved hand. Their eyes locked, a wealth of emotion and unspoken agreement tangled together. "...very well."

Hadrian sat in the rinsing section outside of the large heated pool that the rest of the Gheyos were clustered in. He squirmed, faintly as the Gheyo Knight attending to him, poured more hot water over his hair, scrubbing the grubby locks until his head was more shampoo than hair. He didn't dare complain. The exhaustion had sunk into his bones and he didn't think he could manage this on his own.

"Do you know where you want to start?" Lord Cunningham asked. A darkened spark leapt from one hand to Hadrian's shoulder. "Make sure you sift through all of that, before you answer."

Still adjusting to the knowledge transfer, Hadrian wrinkled his nose. That was almost a dare he couldn't pass up, but there was truth to it. The information shared had his head spinning. He'd never even heard or seen any of these things, but there was proof enough of them.

A wand that could rule all other wands. A cloak that could mask him from Death's eye. A stone that would revive the dead.

Truly horrifying objects, if he was honest. Granted, there was a lot of unnecessary and terrifying things that dragel Blood Magic and Death Magic could do, but he liked to think that they were sane enough not to push boundaries that ought not to be pushed.

"Just because you won't do it, doesn't mean that someone else won't," the ACE said, his voice gravelly. "You have an utterly pointless conscience given your Reaper ranking; spirits below know why you have that. If you think it's too horrifying, chances are that someone's already done it. You'd do better to keep that in mind."

"He has a point," Lord Cunningham said. He eased into the hot water with a quiet groan of contentment. There were a few visible scars on his broad shoulders, newly healed. He'd been busy in the past few weeks.

"...is Mariana returning?" Hadrian dared to ask.

Lord Cunningham stared at him, pointedly. "If she comes, I highly doubt you will survive her temper."

Hadrian slumped. He was fairly certain he wouldn't.

Mariana was clever and sharp in a way that was hard to explain. He wanted and valued her opinions and suggestions. He also had a feeling that things would move very quickly along, if she was involved.

Things like finding all the Hallows before Death came to make good on their promise. He could do without Death breathing down his neck and clawing at his blackened soul. There was more than enough terror and destruction in his wake without amplifying it unnecessarily.

He sighed.

The Knight dumped a large bubble of water over his head, sending shampoo suds everywhere. He squeezed his eyes shut and thought back to Death's words. He barely felt the hands in his hair, rinsing out the last of the shampoo.

"The stone," he said, at last. "It's a resurrection stone, right? That's what you said it was. There has to be some sort of pull towards it, right?"

"As a Reaper of your rank—possibly. I feel I should warn you that it's likely not the siren calls you're envisioning. Your job would be to destroy something like that, you would be searching for an item that is actively repelling you."

Hadrian shuddered.

The Knight patted his shoulder in sympathy, then nudged him towards the giant hot bath.

KALZIK GUESTHOUSE – THEO, CHARLIE, ETHAN, HARRY & QUINN

Dinner was delightful, Theo thought to himself. He watched as the table was magically cleared and his Bonded dispersed at once. Charlie retreated to the bed and his earlier position beside Harry.

Ethan bustled about the room, carefully packing things away and spelling extra protections around the room. Theo had to admire that; he hadn't even seen when Ethan had summoned their few belongings over from the Peverell's guest house.

Charlie watched Ethan with a fond expression on his face, eventually catching Ethan's eye and motioning him over to the bed. "You can relax," he said, knowingly. "He's just in a healing trance, like you said. We don't need a lot of fussing right now. I think this might be the only chance we have to relax for a while, so you should take it."

It was easy to read Ethan's hesitation in the slight stiff set of his shoulders and the worry in his golden gaze.

Theo caught his arm and towed him to the bed. "Charlie has a point. You've set the room up nicely and there's really nothing else you need to worry about. Sit down and rest, so I can stop feeling tired watching you."

Ethan bit his lip. "I-I just feel that I should be doing more. A lot more. We don't have much of a base, as you said and-"

"And this is a Kalzik patient guesthouse," Theo said, patiently. "We can't very well call it our own right now, so there's nothing for you to fuss over. We'll figure it out. We'll figure everything out, for now—I think-"

"Why don't you take first turn in the shower?" Charlie interrupted. He could read the slight tick at the corner of Theo's forehead, a hint that he was tired, but holding onto his temper by sheer luck and fraying patience.

Ethan's golden eyes fluxed to hazel, before he gave a stiff, shallow shrug. He could recognize a dismissal when he heard one and that's what Charlie's words sounded like. He pulled free of Theo's grip on his arm and headed for the bathroom.

A moment of shocked silence registered, before Theo's brow knitted together in a mixture of frustration and confusion.

Charlie reached out, catching him around the shoulders. "He's just worried," he said, calmly. He could feel Theo's agitation rolling off of him in short, controlled bursts of emotion. Some of it he was sure was from Harry.

Empath spill over or something like that. Ebony had mentioned it. She'd warned him to work on being a buffer and a calm voice of reason. In the moment, he could appreciate the advice. Theo's own eyes had gone nearly the exact same shade as Ethan's.

Charlie didn't need to be a genius to know that they were probably liable to tear into each other, if one of them wasn't prepared to be patient for a little while longer. He didn't release Theo until he was able to push some warmth into those thin shoulders. He had a feeling that two strong Earth types were similar to two sturdy rocks.

Even now, he was caught by surprise at how small, but sturdy his Alpha was. The stress and strain had to be immense, he was sure. There was so much he didn't know as a Beta and he could only imagine the burden resting on Theo.

Sighing, Charlie leaned forward until he could press his cheek to the side of Theo's head. He pushed a bit more warmth into him when Theo didn't complain outright. "Is this about before?" he asked, carefully. "With Ethan?"

Theo strained against his embrace—cautiously.

Charlie hummed. "Alright, so not Ethan? Is it Harry?"

"...Charlie."

"Alright, not Harry." Charlie's lips twitched. Theo hadn't made a concentrated effort to get away from him, so he was probably alright for now. "And it can't be me, because we're here and you're not saying anything."

Theo made a sound in his throat and twisted around in Charlie's arms to face him. They stared at each other for a long moment, simply soaking up the comfort that came from being so close together, regardless of the unsorted emotions hanging overhead.

When Theo could hear the shower start up in the bathroom, he drooped.

Careful to give him time to refuse, Charlie gently pulled him forward until Theo was back in his arms. He was glad he sat on the edge of the bed, even though Theo stood, because then, there couldn't be any complaint of whose head was higher.

It seemed his first guess was right after all—Ethan.

"If you need something from me—anything," Charlie murmured. "Ask. I might not know the exact translation of it, but I can do something, alright? Even if you have to tell me what to do to give you what you need, I want you to do that. We're in this together, Theo. All of us."

Theo melted into those warm, sturdy arms. For a moment—just a moment—it was alright. He could breathe easier. Charlie had an excellent point, though there really wasn't anything he could do about this. Not now, anyway. It was something that Theo would have to do on his own.

Too soon, he pulled away, the golden glow returning to his eyes—his attention now fixed on the bathroom door. Charlie had given him the boost he needed, so he'd take that and tackle this head on.

Charlie bit back a smile. "Don't be too hard on him, eh? He's worried."

Theo didn't answer, but he walked to the bathroom door—instead of storming over. He tapped once on the door and listened, surprised to hear the softest scuffle of sound. He huffed and knocked again. "Ethan?"

Ethan slumped on the floor, his back to the door. The amount of emotion coursing through him in that moment, was more than he'd felt in years. It made his insides hurt in places he hadn't known could hurt.

Was this from Harry? He didn't know. Couldn't tell. His first guess was yes, but he had no way of knowing whether that was true or not. If it was some kind of Empath thing, then it could be possible, even though Harry was settled deeply into a healing trance.

He hadn't found the time to check through old cases and papers on Circles with Empaths in them. The research had to wait because of the more pressing necessities in front of them. Maybe with Harry in a trance now, he could carve out some time for a quick research dive and a library archive hunt.

Or maybe he could ask Quinn for a block of some sort. Something to dull or numb the feedback until Harry was awake. His mind was such a muddled mess, it felt as if he'd never be clear-headed again, much less coherent enough to sift through detailed stacks of information and archive reports.

Ethan pressed his head into his hands, biting his lip. He'd never felt like this before.

Without having Harry awake and willing to explain, he felt as if he were wandering blindfolded through a cursed maze of some sort. The events of the day rushed over him with double the guilt.

He'd called on Quinn for the very reason that they were now currently safely ensconced in one of the Kalzik's guesthouses. Because he'd read something between the lines of Harry and Quinn, thinking that it was worth trusting.

Maybe it'd been too soon for something like that.

Riven Cairothe's reaction had been unexpected—right along with the entire Kalzik triad. He hadn't expected that level of animosity from a Healer Clan, but then again, he should have listened to Riven's request.

The man came from a long line of immensely powerful spellcasters with the kind of magic that could unmake the very fabric of time. A helpless laugh bubbled up in his throat. What had he been thinking?

It was a miracle that Riven had only gotten snappish and panicked, instead of erasing all of them from history or dissolving them into nothingness right there.

A shiver ran through him.

Mages of that calibre were immensely powerful and subject to their own whims. Normally, he'd be able to read things a little better than that. What had gone wrong? Why hadn't he caught that? Why had he put his new Circle on edge?

And then there'd been Theo.

Oh yes. Theo. Charlie was there too, but he was such an open, inviting ball of warmth that Ethan hadn't been able to read anything at all from him. Just the growing threads of fondness and the subtle shifts he knew to look for.

The details that meant a Beta was adjusting to a new Bonded. Ethan could see it in the way that Charlie had stepped up to mediate between him and Theo at least twice now. He was settling in a way that Ethan wasn't.

Glad as he was that Charlie's reaction was normal, the other end of it—Theo—left him scrambling at threads of connection that didn't feel fully formed yet.

Ethan's head thunked back against the bathroom door. On one claw, he'd kind of hoped at least one of them would follow him in here, but it seemed as if he'd have to ask for what he needed with words instead of wishful thinking.

Oh, he knew he needed to ask, but the first few times were always the worst. Figuring out what to say and how to phrase it. Timing his request for when his new Bonded would be most likely to grant it—and all the subtle nuances that his Pareyic rank would never let him forget.

The sharpness in Theo's manner had left him feeling unsettled and agitated. He'd gone past whatever calmness had initially come from the bite at the Hellhound's place. He'd wanted more—and he hadn't known it until this very moment.

A hollow ache settled in the pit of his stomach.

Could he ask for it now? Waiting for a better time felt as if he'd have to claw his eyes out to find some sort of distraction. Now would have to work.

No wonder Harry had been so worried. It was things like this that bothered him. Just enough off kilter to ruffle some instincts and yet—Ethan flicked a hand at the shower and turned it on to drown out the murmurs of whatever Charlie was telling Theo.

He didn't want to know. Didn't want to overhear. Wanted to be anywhere, but there, on the floor, feeling wretched and miserable over something that he couldn't even put his claw on properly.

A knock on the door made him start. Ethan scrambled up from the floor and banished his clothes to the sink, before scrambling into the shower and the safety of the hot water and the privacy of a shower curtain.

He'd imagined that, hadn't he?

But the knock came again, this time, a bit sharper, followed by Theo's voice. "Ethan?"

Oh Arielle. He'd asked for this, hadn't he? Ethan scowled up at the ceiling and hoped his voice was steadier than he felt. He really did need to be careful about wishing desperately for things.

"...yes?"

"Can I come in?"

Ethan choked. It wasn't like he had to ask, but the consideration left him feeling fluttery and confused. He gave a warble in answer, not trusting his words to be coherent.

The door clicked open and Theo slipped in. His presence filled the entire bathroom with a strong, solid pressure and a deliberate blanket of steady, irresistible energy.

Curling his toes against the tiled shower floor, Ethan focused on breathing in and out. That's all he had to do. In and out. In and—oh Arielle, he would lose this. Somehow and without any kind of buffer, he'd lose his temper or his mind. Maybe it didn't matter which one as long as the muddle in his head cleared up and-!

Theo moved closer, choosing to stay braced on the wall just outside of the shower stall. He said nothing, simply waiting. His outline barely visible, if Ethan stole a peek around the shower curtain. A thin haze of steam had already filled the room.

Eventually, Ethan started his usual shower routine. Water all over. Foamy soap suds. More water. A basic shaving spell. A few more intimate cleaning spells. More water.

It wasn't until Theo reached into the shower and shut the water off, that he realized he'd been stalling. He stood there, torn between wanting to ask for something he didn't know how to approach and fighting against the need that was more than mere instinct. No amount of reading or imagining had ever prepared him for this.

Theo drew the curtain back, his pale golden eyes looking over Ethan from head to toe. He seemed to like what he saw, because there was no incriminating reproach or unyielding sternness.

Instead, the faintest hint of a smirk, before Theo reached for him and Ethan went.

He didn't care about wet skin on dry clothes or the fact that Theo won him over with a single, hot, open-mouthed kiss that stole the breath from his aching chest. He couldn't have asked for this—he hadn't known it was an option.

"You have two options," Theo growled. "Back in the shower or over the sink, which one?"

Ethan sucked in a breath. There was no if or maybe to worry about—it was going to happen and he just had a choice of where. Nice.

Full Shower Scene on AO3

The aftercare surprised him.

Because Theo joined him in the shower without hesitation. He didn't bother with spells of any sort, but instead, did it all himself. A clean, soft washcloth. Plenty of nicely scented bodywash and careful, firm hands that kept him upright and soothed, even as he basked in the afterglow.

He hadn't even realized how heavy everything had weighed on him until it didn't. This was a different kind of peace that he hadn't known he could experience.

Theo gently turned him to the side, keeping him close with an arm around his waist. He ran the sudsy washcloth in deliberate, soothing circles.

Ethan keened, softly. His scales had faded back, his damp face nestled in Theo's neck, his long limbs half-draped around Theo's warm form. He could've sworn that Theo was borrowing some of Charlie's warmth, but he wasn't about to complain.

It felt so good.

"...thank you," he mumbled, when Theo began to rinse him off.

Theo rumbled encouragingly in answer. He turned enough to kiss Ethan's ear, then directed the warm water over both of them. He gave Ethan a moment longer to enjoy the warm water, then turned the taps off.

It took some manoeuvring to get him out of the shower and wrapped in a thick, fluffy towel. Gently towelling him off, Theo was caught by the similarities between Ethan's hesitant smile and Harry's adoring gaze. He could see it there, the way that both of them wanted—needed—the affection and reassurance, but didn't quite know exactly how much they could ask for.

Nuzzling along his temple, Theo grinned inwardly at Ethan's slight shiver—and the tilt of his head, silently asking for more. He would have to make a note of this in the future—no, he'd already noted it. Now, he would just make sure to follow through.

Charlie had already picked up on some of it—clever man.

"...I should be doing this for you," Ethan said, hoarsely.

Theo unwrapped him from the towels and went about slathering him up with a lightly scented body lotion. "Should you?" Theo asked, mildly. "Or am I not allowed to do this?"

Ethan ducked his head, his ears warming at the indirect rebuke. "...you can do as you like," he admitted.

"Good. Because I like doing this," Theo said, squeezing his shoulders, lightly. "I don't mind it. Not for you or Charlie or Harry. This has nothing to do with ranks and everything to do with the fact that it's been a long day for all of us. You're exhausted on several levels and so am I."

"Thank you," Ethan whispered again.

"I heard you the first time," Theo said, softly. "You're welcome. Now, I want you dressed and ready for bed. No complaints about turning in early tonight and no fussing. If you're cold, you sleep with Charlie, understand? We all need sleep and I intend for us to get some tonight."

Ethan bit his lip. "...alright."

"And tomorrow, we're getting you a ring," Theo said, firmly.

Hazel eyes finally fluxed to bright gold. "A ring?" Ethan perked up, a new sliver of hope curling around his heart and settling there like it belonged.

"Yes." Theo lifted his chin with one finger. "A ring, so you remember where you belong and how much we appreciate and adore you."

Ethan sucked in a breath. He blinked rapidly.

"We might not be one of the most coordinated or sane Circles out there, but we are what we are—and we'll grow together in time. I trust that. I hope you can too. Because even though it might take time, I think—we have a good foundation to build on." Theo cupped his cheek, smoothing a thumb over Ethan's cheek. "So, build on it, alright? This is new to us and you. I understand that. But don't fold into yourself because you're not sure how much you can ask for. You can always ask. Even if I don't know what to do about it right then, we can figure it out."

"Together?" Ethan offered.

"Together."

By the time Ethan emerged from the bathroom, he was far more composed than when he'd gone in. He was dressed in his favourite pair of pyjamas, needing the comfort of familiarity and routine to add to his elemental grounding.

Charlie and Theo were whispering to each other while watching over Harry. It seemed as if they were comparing some sort of notes.

You need to all rest and stop thinking so loudly. Quinn stood in the doorway; his arms crossed over his chest. He looked just as grumpy as he has during the dinnertime meal and now, his teal eyes were a near stormy blue.

Charlie looked as if he wanted to laugh, a slightly guilty look on his tanned face. "Sorry," he said, lightly. "Didn't mean to. It's just be a very rough couple of days. I don't think anyone's managed to breathe much."

Quinn sniffed. Obviously, you have, or else you would all be dead right now. Could you continue to keep breathing and do it quietly to the tune of actually sleeping? I'd appreciate it.

Ethan bit back a laugh. So, Quinn had a sharper sense of humour. That was unexpected, but not a bad thing. He wandered over to the bed, glad to see that Harry's face was relaxed in his rest and not creased in worry.

"Will Harry be up at all?" Theo asked. He was torn between wanting to give some space, in case of magical spill over, yet not wanting to be too far away, in case Harry woke earlier than expected.

Not until the trance has ended, unless he is in some sort of life-threatening circumstance. I would hope that never happens.

Ethan winced. "That makes all of us," he said, lightly. "I think we'd all prefer if he didn't charge into the life-threatening circumstances part anytime soon."

Charlie nodded in agreement. "I think we've all had enough of that to last a week."

"A week?" Theo perked a brow. "Really."

"A week's all we'd get," Charlie said, lips twitching. "You know as well as I do that Harry can't help his luck."

Quinn lingered in the doorway. Are you staying in here for the night?

Theo's head snapped around to him at once. "Any reason why we shouldn't?"

There was a deliberate pause on Quinn's behalf, before he stepped into the room fully, brows creased. He paced the entire perimeter of it—as best as he could—before retreating to the hallway.

You should stay outside of the room. His magic is pressing up against all the corners. It's seeking an outlet, but trying to temper itself because of you and yours. I would suggest sleeping in the living room outside. It is across the hall and that should give enough space on both sides.

"Tempering itself? For what?" Theo frowned. "I thought he was in a trance."

Just because he's in a trance, doesn't mean he's helpless. Well, technically. He can still hear, if he's tuned into you and whatever is happening in his mind right now, it's certainly very real and will likely affect the outside atmosphere.

"But he's alright?" Charlie glanced from Harry's sleeping face to Quinn's furrowed brow. "There isn't anything we can do?"

Just give him space. He will wake at the appointed time. Trances are usually rather specific. He must be alright, because his vitals are fine and everything else is at a neutral reading. Quinn drew out his focus pendant from within his pyjama jacket. He traced a few symbols in the air, watching as they came to life in shimmering shades of teal.

"Peace, solace and—I can't read that last one," Ethan said, squinting. "You know your runes."

And you know enough of them. Quinn seemed pleased. Peace for an untroubled sleep, solace in the absence of your physical presence close-by and a grounding charm given his empathic nature.

"What's the best thing to do for him when he's reacting?" Ethan wanted to know. He followed Quinn out of the room and into the hallway. "Theo?"

"What?" Theo stood beside Harry's side of the bed, watching as Quinn's teal runes shrunk to fit on the blank spaces of Harry's face.

"Let's take his advice," Charlie said, gently. "He's done well at keeping up with what Harry needs, so-"

"I'll be there as soon as those settle," Theo muttered, his sharpened gaze fixed on the glowing teal runes. "And I won't touch them either," he added, when it seemed as if Charlie would stay with him.

With a sigh, Charlie left, joining Quinn and Ethan in the living room across the hallway. It was a rather large room, likely meant to hold a full Circle of dragels.

Quinn worked his way through the room, whisking the furniture aside and transfiguring actual sleeping pillows out of the small decorative ones accenting the sofas. He flicked the coffee table to the side and freshened up the thick, fluffy rug on the floor. Weren't there spares in the bedroom?

Ethan scurried off, returning a moment later with an armful of soft blankets and clean sheets. He waited, patiently, beside Quinn to see how things would be set up.

Quinn eyed him critically. Don't you need more bedding? There's plenty of blankets and such for guests. More than what was in there. We keep extras in the hallway linen closet, I just set those in there in case Harry needed them.

"A few more blankets then," Ethan requested, perking up. "More pillows too."

Come and get them. Quinn disappeared down the hall with Ethan trailing after him.

Charlie stood to the side, watching as the makeshift beds were made up on the floor. He wondered why Quinn hadn't transfigured proper beds, but figured he might be missing something obvious.

Several minutes later, Quinn returned, arms full, along with Ethan. Sleeping on the floor will help with grounding, given Harry's current state. Ideally, I'd like to have you outside in the dirt, but I doubt Theo will approve of that.

The thought of all three of them buried up to their necks in dirt, had Charlie's lips twitching. It sounded like a prank the twins would enjoy. A pang of loneliness stabbed through him.

He missed his family even more when he remembered details like that. Even if they were sometimes on each other's last nerves, they were still family and it hurt to think that what they'd once had would never be the same again.

The twins had always taken care with their pranks when it came to him, however. The same with Bill, almost as if they weren't quite sure how far to push or whether they should. He had a little more leeway than Bill, as dragon-tamer gave him a certain awesome-factor that the twins had assigned to him.

The near smile turned into a sad one as Charlie dutifully shuffled out of the way so Ethan and Quinn could fuss to their heart's content. He watched them spread out fluffy bedding, crisp sheets and clean, plump pillows, just begging to be snuggled.

Still, despite how inviting it looked, Charlie could only feel a heaviness within him. Today, of all days, he wished that he could be closer to Harry, if not completely melded with him, then close enough to hold.

The feeling threatened to turn bitter and that was enough wallowing. Charlie started, faintly, when Theo brushed past him, fingers lingering on his arm. Lucky Theo. He'd already had the opportunity to settle himself—and Ethan at the same time.

"Runes are good," Theo announced, choosing a spot closest to the hallway entrance across from Harry's room. He fluffed the pillow to his own liking and inspected the bedding with a nearly militant air.

Ethan stood anxiously on one corner, relaxing when Theo gave a nod of approval. He selected the spot to Theo's left, closest to the door and Harry.

Which left Charlie on the right side and the emptiness of the large, open floor of the room. He left them to their own preparations and disappeared in search of a turn in the shower.

By the time Charlie returned, Ethan had brought them all a warm cup of golden milk to help them sleep. It was mixed with turmeric and a little bit of honey, heated to just the right temperature.

"Quinn's recipe," Ethan explained, handing over a warm mug. "He said we all look like we could use it." He nodded to where Quinn appeared in the doorway, having gone for one last check on Harry. "How is he?"

The same. I expect he'll be fine throughout the night. Quinn hesitated, casting a glance over his shoulder.

Theo huffed from where he'd just settled into the blankets. "Why don't you join us? There's plenty of room and if Harry does need something, you'd be right on hand."

It was plain to see that the idea appealed to Quinn, as his teal eyes fairly glowed and the heaviness in the room, seemed to lift noticeably. I could not impose, he answered, politely.

A half-growl came from Theo's corner. "It's hardly imposing if I ask, isn't it?" He rolled onto his side, patting the space beside him. "Ethan!"

Ethan ducked his head, lightly, and moved around Charlie to hurry to his appointed space. He bent down, whispering to Theo for a moment, then slipped beneath the covers beside him. He made no comment when Theo curled an arm around his waist and pulled him closer.

They snuggled together, still murmuring quietly between themselves.

Charlie drained the mug and handed it off to a waiting Quinn, who banished it to the kitchen. "You can join us," he said, repeating Theo's offer. "I don't mind and I don't think Harry would either."

Quinn sighed, his shoulders drooping. It isn't a matter of minding...

Charlie glanced at the half-intertwined Theo and Ethan on one half of the bedding. "They'll be too busy with each other," he said, quietly. "And I am a very deep sleeper."

Another beat passed.

Quinn rubbed his face. Perhaps later. I have paperwork.

Charlie shrugged. "Suit yourself." He chose a pillow and slid beneath his own blanket, inching as close to the cuddling Theo and Ethan, as he could, without actively smothering his Alpha.

He doubted Theo would appreciate being smothered right now and his usual heat spill over was likely to make them all overheat, if he wasn't careful. The sight of Quinn's frown was the last thing he remembered as his exhausted body gave into the softness of the blankets and the clean sheets.

When dreams came, he knew nothing.

At one point in the night, the blankets shifted and a waft of cool air travelled under the blankets as a new body joined their sleeping space.

Must be Quinn...Charlie thought, drowsily. He didn't bother waking all the way to verify it. His instincts were calm and his flames simmered softly within him. It wasn't worth the hassle of waking all the way up.

When warm hands pulled him close and an equally warm body wrapped around him, Charlie only sighed in contentment and cuddled closer. He liked the feel of the soft skin and sleek scales. His magic had no problem with it and though one part of his sleepy brain tried to make sense of it, he was too tired to puzzle it out.

Relaxing into the warmth, he fell back into dreamland.

DAY SIX - KALZIK GUESTHOUSE - HARRY AND CO.

It was rare to be up before Theo, but Charlie was starting to think it was a good idea. At least, there was some peace and quiet, without any shadowy worry lurking behind him. He was glad to see that Theo was fast asleep on the floor, though it a very different situation than what he'd started with.

His guess had been right. It was Quinn who had come to join them.

Charlie stared, amused to realize that Theo had no idea he was sandwiched between two cuddlers—yet. He'd lost his place beside Theo at some point, though he didn't quite remember if it was when Ethan had gotten up to check on Harry in the night.

Fast asleep, half-curled around Ethan now, Theo's worried expression had smoothed out in sleep. He had one arm tucked around Ethan's waist, pulling him close and his chin pressed against Ethan's forehead.

The amusement though, that was from a certain Quinn Kalzik pressed up on Theo's other side, snuggled up as close as possible without actually smothering Theo and half-reaching over him to touch Ethan as well. It was tempting to wait and see the actual reaction when they woke, but he'd roused himself from sleep and warmth for a good reason.

Ebony.

He needed to make some time to speak to her. His mentor had urged him to contact her for anything at all, but with all the chaos and Prince Raspen in the mix, there were a few details missing.

Alright, more than a few details.

Charlie slipped out from under the covers. He paused to check on Harry—there was no change—and then crept out the door and into the outer hall. Making his way to the kitchen, he was surprised to see a glowing display outside of the bedroom.

He guessed it to be on account of the guest cottage of sorts belonging to the Kalziks' as a glowing grid displayed several lines of pertinent information. It listed a small Circle with the Submissive in a healing trance. There were notations for no known food allergies and requests for minimal interaction and outside interference.

Interesting.

Charlie surveyed the pristine kitchen, wondering if he really ought to try to make anything there. It was almost too clean to use. Quinn's hot dinner had been incredibly soothing and nostalgic all at the same time. It made him miss home, his mother and the dragon preserve.

He found a tea kettle and half a loaf of bread in the bread box. That was enough to work with, so he set about heating water for tea and the toasting spell he'd grown up using since he was able to cast it.

It took a little effort to create a communication bubble the way that Ebony had taught him. His magic, though obedient, felt sharper and a little wilder now. Soon enough, he saw her bright-eyed face in the shining energy bubble.

A sleepy grin stole over her face and she waved at him. "I'd say good morning, but you all left a mess yesterday."

Charlie winced. "I wanted to catch you up, but I guess you've heard?"

Ebony laughed. "I don't think there's anyone who hasn't, but at least things are working out, right? How is he? Taking to it well? Raspen was pretty upset last night, but he's fine. Dealing with Aiden can wear any hardened soul out."

"Harry's in a healing trance according to Maia Kadel. We're at—the Kalziks'. They've put us up in one of their guest cottages."

"The rest of yours alright?"

"...they're still sleeping."

"You're the only early riser?" Ebony laughed again. "What are you doing?"

"Tea," he said, holding up a steaming cup of tea to the bubble. "And I have some questions."

"Go for it."

"What would it take for us to have a place of our own over here? I wasn't rich by any means, but I did have some assets off-realm in the Wizarding World and I don't know how to access them from here. We haven't gone to anywhere near like a Wizarding bank and I don't know how that works in Nevarah. Theo's not comfortable at the Peverells' and Harry's not enough of a buffer. Ethan offered to let his family put us up, but Quinn Kalzik stepped in and we're here in a guest cottage. I think the lack of roots or something is making it harder on everyone."

Ebony's expression softened considerably. "That would do it, wouldn't it?" she said. "It does help to have someplace you can call your own. First off, you should have access to your accounts the moment you checked into here as a Nevarean guest. Your actual realm citizenship was submitted when your bonding was registered. That will probably clear after the Hunt, but won't really affect much as long as Theo is a verified Nevarean. That entitles him to purchase land and the necessary wards to keep it protected. I would say with Harry being anchored to the realm now, that won't be an issue for you or anyone else in your Circle. The official paperwork will probably be late, but the reality is already set."

"Is it expensive?" He spelled another square of toast onto a clean plate. He needed something else to go with the tea and toast combo though. There wasn't any sort of meat or protein. "I don't have anything to compare it to, because I don't understand your currency."

"It's probably easier than you're thinking," Ebony said, at last. "And it would depend on what you're shopping for, same as where you're from. If you're looking for traditional rooms that's fairly standard and there's always something available. Custom-built is a better option, but definitely pricier. You'd be starting with a small central home and expanding out as your Circle grows, per the dominant elements."

Charlie added more sugar to his tea and stirred in slow figure-eights. "I don't know what we need or if we're traditional at all. I don't know how many soulmates Harry has or when he'll find them."

"Alright. Are you all sleeping in the same bed?" Ebony's surroundings changed from soft lights, to a brighter space, as if she'd moved near a window.

"...I'm almost afraid to ask why. We are, actually."

"Then traditional quarters can work," Ebony explained. "It means you'll end up with a shared sleeping room. Obviously, every Bonded will have their own room and space, save for the triad. They're expected to share and their quarters are configured for three. For the rest of the Circle, they're usually flanking the triad room. It's only fair, considering that interests and privacy needs are different and vary by individual, but it's catered to closeness."

"...and if I wanted my own room?"

"Non-traditional," Ebony said, cheerfully. "And there's nothing wrong with it if you do. Just means that you'll probably want to find a small place to start with or a custom-build residence. Considering that your Theo is Earth and he's sensitive to it, I'd think you might want to be looking for places with Earth-specific elemental boosts. Nothing too high or airy—so no floating residences—and unless there's more Fire-types, not close to the Fire territories."

A sigh escaped. "Sometimes I think you all complicate things just for the fun of it."

Ebony grinned. "We probably do. We like complicated things. It'll grow on you. Don't worry. For a traditional house though, it'll have a central room, usually near the actual centre of the house, where everyone rests. It's generally circular and padded everywhere, so you can sleep wings-out, if you like, depending on how big it is."

Charlie blinked. "I can't tell if you're serious or not," he said, slowly. "That sounds—"

"Fantastical?" Ebony said, dryly. "I'm quite serious. Non-traditional quarters are basically everyone where they want to be or sometimes divided by element. Earth elementals on the ground floor, Air types in the attic or upper floors, that sort of thing. Elements play heavily into existing structures as they usually favour one or two more elements than others. Fire, for instance, will have a lot of heat-absorbers. Sunning rocks, sprawling balconies, that sort of thing."

"Would we be able to find something during the Hunt or no?"

"It's possible, but showings would depend on whether anyone's available to show it to you. There's also a distinct possibility that you won't have all the paperwork processed at once."

"Doesn't this cause problems?"

Ebony shook her head. "Not when it happens every ten years. You learn to make an allowance and usually, you're working pretty hard to prepare for it. The Hunt is a chance to let your hair down or test your flames out. Are you just eating toast?"

"...the kitchen's too clean."

A laugh sputtered out. "That sounds like a Kalzik. I'm sure you can find something though—or, is it clear where you are?"

"What?"

"The table. You're sitting at the kitchen table, right?"

"Yes," Charlie said, slowly. "Why?"

"Sit back. Hands in your lap. Give me a minute."

Puzzled, he did as requested.

A soft flare of golden light deposited a full breakfast tray directly in front of him. The tea cup was rescued by a protective bubble, along with his half-eaten slice of toast.

"...thank you?"

Ebony grinned. "Can't have you dying of hunger in the middle of this conversation. Speaking of which, have you connected with your mother's side of the family, as yet? They're on the current roster for today's attendees."

Charlie froze.

"...I guess I should have warned you, sorry." Ebony rubbed her nose. "I didn't mean to break it to you like that. I thought you knew. A message should have reached you, if your Theo had a notification request. Did you know they are here in Nevarah?"

"No, I didn't. We sent requests. Theo did, anyway. We didn't hear anything back." He hesitated. "We haven't heard anything at all from anyone really, since we've come. Is it because of the Hunt?"

"You can pretty much blame everything on the Hunt," Ebony said, lips twitching. "It's probably buried beneath their other requests. They usually stay in fairly deep in the Fire territories so coming this far out for the Hunt is a bit of a struggle. They're quite a large Clan. When I meant they're on the list, a Clan of their size is required to inform me when they're attending, in case there are any awards, requests or restrictions necessary. They'll be somewhere in the Hunt today. I don't know if I'll see them, but at least now you know."

Charlie busied himself with the breakfast tray, his entire demeanour growing serious. "...and if I don't want to see them right now?"

"You do not have to," Ebony said, firmly. "The choice is yours. I'd rather you be aware that they're moving through the Hunt, instead of accidentally stumbling across them, given Harry's luck."

"Harry's not attending today, so I doubt we will either."

"You don't have to skip because he's not attending," Ebony said, kindly. "I wouldn't mind seeing your face in person, if you felt up to it. You could meet the Fire Council. Possible connections there."

Charlie shook his head. "I think we'll stay in today."

"All of you?" Ebony's orange eyes gleamed. "Really?"

"...yes."

"Alright then. Don't let your breakfast get cold. "

"I'm not even sure what all of it is."

"Good point—starting from the upper right, that's a candied sea syrup salad. Lots of minerals, but with a bit of a crunch. The plate below that-"

"Thank you," Charlie interrupted. He poked at the sea syrup salad, but there was a flicker of noticeable gratitude in his soft blue eyes. "For everything."

Ebony grinned. "What are mentors for?"

MOLLY AND CO - NEVARAH - DAY FIVE - EVENING

Molly summoned up a polite smile as the tall, elegant fellow directed them to the only active information hub during the Hunt. He'd introduced himself as Lewis Peverell, a name that rang oddly familiar in the back of her head, though she couldn't quite place it.

"So happy to help," he said, smoothly. He checked something in his pocket, then bowed formally. "I must be on my way. There are a thousand and one things to attend to. Enjoy the Hunt."

"He's very polite," Augusta grumbled, watching him disappear into the crowd with hooded eyes. "Too polite."

"He had something in his pocket," Dean said, slowly. "I think it was alive?"

Seamus grinned. "Definitely alive. I think it wanted to climb out." He nudged Dean with his shoulder. "Seems like a good place though, right?" He was pleasantly surprised to find that the final leg of their trip had deposited them in a place that instantly felt like home.

He'd never been to Nevarah, but not because he'd never wanted to. He'd simply never heard of the place and it wasn't like he had anyone to ask about it either. This was new, but welcome.

Dean nudged him back, then huffed and reached out, looping an arm around his shoulders to add a bit of pressure and reassurance. There was a bright spark in his eyes as he took in the bustling city streets. "Feels alive and—welcoming," he said, quietly.

Seamus leaned into him. "Going to stay a bit longer?" he asked, his voice low for Dean's ears alone. He could feel his luck straining a bit, but it'd been worth it to wrap things up this quickly. It'd been an unexpected twist to be delivered straight to their final destination, but he wasn't about to argue about it.

"Yeah. If you want." Dean studied Molly and Augusta at the head of their little group. Both women were whispering furiously between themselves. Neville and Lavender were much like he and Seamus, as closely fused to each other as they could manage in the current public view.

Ginny was the only odd one out. She hugged her arms to herself, her eyes sharp, her expression neutral. She was taking in every single little detail, with the occasional glance back at her mother every so often. There was a vaguely haunted look in her eyes, as if the upheaval in the past few days had done much more than turn her world upside down.

Seamus wondered if she was cold or just worried. He decided it had to be both, though he couldn't understand how she could feel cold, given how nice and warm it felt to him. He was reminded again, that he didn't really know much about this whole adventure. That would change in the next few days, hopefully.

"You have family?" Augusta looked to Molly; her gaze critical. "A place to stay or should we find somewhere to-"

"You need fresh soil," Molly said, wearily. "If you don't get your roots covered soon, it'll be harder than it needs to be."

"Worry about your own self," Augusta grumbled. "I have a grandson to do that for me. He can use his head for a change. He has some brains, if he'd use it." She eyed the bustling flow of dragels and creatures streaming through the streets.

That wasn't entirely fair to Neville, given that she'd seen more of him in the past few days, as he'd helped to pick up the slack around their little group—and keep a certain young witch happy and helpful.

Lavender Brown might not be her first pick for Neville, but Augusta had privately reworked her opinion of the witch for the time being. Perhaps they'd grow into the promise and security that Nevarah offered them.

As much as she didn't want to agree with Molly straightaway, she did need some fresh soil and Nevarah's magic felt like it would be enough to feed her for centuries with the sheer depth and welcoming energies that surged up to meet them.

She was tired—they all were. They needed a place to stay and set some roots, even if only temporary. The problem was not knowing where to go or what to do now.

Molly sighed. Nevarah was busier than she'd expected. The few things she remembered already made her feel older than she really was. It took a half-minute to figure out the shortest distance to the general council hall.

"Family," she said, at last. "I could request an audience. It's—entirely up to them if they wish to see me. We didn't part on good terms."

Augusta huffed. "Your fault?"

The words stung, but Molly tried not to take it to heart. It was true after all. She'd been young and in love, her flames burning so hot they'd burned her in the process of carving out a place in the realms. "A little bit," she lied. "A heart in love does foolish things. Ginny?" she twisted around, searching for her only child at present.

Relief spread through her as Ginny shouldered her way through their small group to reach her side. She looked so tiny and angry, but the tangible undercurrent of worry made Molly's heart ache to ease it.

"We're almost there," she soothed, stroking a hand through Ginny's soft hair and cupping her cheek. There was so much to explain—or try to explain—and she barely knew where to start.

She was only aware that her growing unhappiness was beginning to take a toll on her. Much faster than she'd expected, considering that Arthur wasn't dragel. But she'd known that when she'd agreed to marry him. Had known quite well that she'd be giving up things that she wouldn't get back. Especially when it seemed as if they were connected so deeply to each other, that she might've thought they were soulmates.

"Where, Mum?" Ginny wanted to know. It was hard to keep the whine out of her voice, but there was too much newness happening all around her. From the odd dreams as of recently and her Mum's equally odd behaviour, not to mention the entire family breakup—yes, there was too much to process.

Ginny just wanted somewhere to exist for longer than a few hours. A place where she could either breakdown or numb out. Not that she would ever tell her poor Mum that. In all the years that they'd lived and struggled, she'd never seen her mum this way. There was no telling what the rest of her family was like either.

She even missed the twins at this point. They'd grown up around and tripping over each other so much at the Burrow that being on her own—if that was what this was—felt so strange.

"Somewhere that we can rest," Molly said, softly. "Somewhere safe, I think."

"Is there anywhere safe?" Ginny drew herself up, doing her best to keep it together. "What about Dad and everyone else?"

Molly's expression grew pained. "...I am sure they are—safe."

Rolf hung back at the fringes of their little group, his brow furrowed. Now that Luna's friends were safely in Nevarah and on their way to meeting up with whoever they'd come for, he was anxious to resume their initial mission.

Luna, of course, seemed supremely unperturbed by all of the fuss. She'd greeted Lewis in a way that sounded as if she'd known the man for years.

But this was Luna. Rolf wasn't sure he wanted to know how she knew some of these things. Maybe a few, but not all. Definitely not all.

Now, he trailed behind her as she gaily waved goodbye to all of them and started down the backstreets of Nevarah as if she'd always roamed there like that.

"Luna—Luna, wait!"

She smiled, sweetly and quickened her steps.

Rolf stifled a groan and broke into a trot to keep up. Whatever she was up to, he'd just have to wait and see. There was still the troublesome matter of getting their Queen there as well…

DEVERAINE ESTATE – ILSA AND CO. - DAY SIX, MORNING

"Ilsa, mail for you—" Aracle held up a fancy notice, while doling out the rest of the day's items to Sueh, who stood at his right.

"Ilsa, breakfast for you—" Greta smushed her second breakfast sandwich together for the morning held it out in the same fashion as Aracle.

A disgruntled growl came from the opposite end of the kitchen, before Ilsa slunk over. She plucked the offending notice from Aracle's hand and took an angry bite out of the breakfast sandwich. "Cute, very cute," she said, sarcastically.

"Can't understand a thing you're saying," Greta said. She held up her cup of coffee. "Drink?"

Another less grumpy growl came this time, as Ilsa reluctantly washed the mouthful down with a few gulps of caffeinated bliss. She tore into the notice, skimming the official summons presented within. Her golden gaze sharpened accordingly.

Greta offered her another bite, before Aracle reached out to snag Ilsa around the waist. He pulled her onto his lap, so he could read the notice as well.

"Is that what I think it is?" Sueh wanted to know. She joined him in reading the missive, shaking her head. "Let me guess, everyone will need a full suit again?"

"For what, loveling?" Alma sailed past, Bruen balanced on her hip. He was carefully eating his way through a fruit-filled pastry, in better humours because he was being carried. "We just did two of them already for the Hunt, haven't we?"

"Accounts are fine," Ithycar said, absently. "Order whatever you want."

"Don't encourage them," Delani said, amused. "They will order whatever they want."

Ithycar shrugged. He scribbled a few more notes at the bottom of the work proposal on the table beside his breakfast plate. "It's not like we can't afford it. I just prefer that we plan it in advance. If it's necessary, it's necessary."

"Your idea of necessary and mine, have never been within the same realm," Delani said, lightly. "And you know quite well that if everyone is ordering new outfits, the Gheyos will want new armour. That's twice as expensive."

"We can mix and match some things," Sueh said, turning away to greet Salani. "If we have to, I suppose. A new set really would be ideal, considering that we're trying to show a united front. Morning, Sal—who has Camalis?"

"Morning," Salani greeted. She nuzzled Sueh's cheek and accepted the kiss in return. "I don't have him. I got the little ones up and moving though. They'll be through in a minute."

"I do." Bu shuffled into the kitchen; the baby held in the crook of her arm. "And that's thirteen attempts on the rear wards for this morning. They're really not giving up."

"If they gave up, we should worry," Callistair said, his voice gravelly, his eyes tired from lack of sleep. He'd taken turns with Loren in monitoring the property for the entire night. The magical backlash he'd felt from the newest anchoring to Nevarah, had left him a bit cranky.

"Come in and sit down, love," Alma fussed. She waved them both over and ousted two of her Bonded from the small, informal table. They were all clustered in the kitchen today, simply wanting to be near to each other.

"Well?" Okahn prompted, when neither Aracle nor Ilsa volunteered the contents of what appeared to be an official court summons.

"Give her a moment," Sueh said, quietly. "And finish sorting that." She nudged Aracle, before trailing after Salani. The two Pareya were already discussing outfits, before Ilsa finally spoke again.

"...Theo's being requested to attend an acknowledgement of mistreatment," she said, quietly.

All conversation stopped.

Ithycar and Delani exchanged a look, something dark flickering between them. Those were distressing accusations. "Elaborate," Ithycar said, briskly. "And quickly."

"Harry's home life was—distressing. He flinches. You know as well as I do that there's too much to read into that."

Aracle frowned. "You'd have to pry that out of him, wouldn't you? "

"Most likely. He likes to do everything himself. Gives me the feeling that he's someone who feels alone in a crowd. He's probably asked for help before and no one listened. Maybe no one believed him. Who knows. This kind of thing though-" Ilsa scowled, a conflicted expression on her face. She'd already instinctively taken in Harry as if he were her own and hadn't given it any second thoughts since.

Greta hummed. "It's not about you though, loveline, it's Theo, right?"

"They've found Harry's next of kin and determined that the state they were found in, suggests that there was more to the reason why Maurice Elswood couldn't retrieve him." Ilsa's scowl deepened. "They're saying that there were extreme circumstances keeping everything from working out the way it should have."

"You're not making much sense, love," Delani said. "Try from the top. Why is Theo summoned?"

"Because Harry's involved," Ilsa said, simply.

"Which means we're involved," Aracle said, slowly. It wasn't hard at all to read between the lines, but he knew this side of Ilsa. The slow shift from uncertainty to a fierce, unrelenting persistence. She was just trying to figure out how to best respond and how to still hold rank for their Circle, without abandoning her mentee.

Greta frowned. "On what grounds though? That's very general. It could be a pointless-"

"Harry's—Aunt and Cousin have been recalled. His Uncle is dead. They were attacked by Torvaks. There's been a claim of mistreatment." Ilsa paused. "To Harry."

The silence in the room stretched out.

"Only Torvaks?" Ithycar said, at last. "No Fabrine?"

"It doesn't say. I can request the report but-"

"Give it to me," Greta said. She swapped her breakfast sandwich for Ilsa's summons. Sharp violet eyes skimmed along the bottom of the notice, before she set it on the table. "I'll be right back. Might take a few minutes."

"Greta-"

"Shush." Greta kissed her cheek. "Eat your breakfast. You should keep your strength up, if we're going to need you for everything we do today. Ithy, Lani—need anything?"

Ithycar sighed. "Drop these off and request an audience with Queen Arista. I want our business settled as quickly as possible. It would be nice to avoid war, though I doubt a court settlement would whet either of their appetites."

Greta nodded. She rose from the table and with a flicker of lavender-hued magic, swapped her daywear for a fancy set of dress armour that she'd only worn out of the house twice. It had plenty of gilded gold detail and rich earth tones, with one very obvious coiled whip fastened at her waist. Looking the official part would get her in and out of where she needed to be, as quickly as possible.

"They're asking Theo to bring Harry in as a witness?" Aracle asked. He frowned at the notice in front of him. "Someone's filed a complaint on his behalf. Why weren't we notified?"

"It's a private note," Ilsa said, wearily. "I knew there was something up, but I haven't had the time to look into it properly. Everything's been-"

"A mess," Bahn said, matter-of-factly. He entered the kitchen with Bhindi trailing behind him, their hands loosely linked. Their eyes were the same shade of eerie silver-white, both of them mirroring each other.

"A very troublesome mess," Bhindi said, irritated. "I thought we were scheming."

"We're scheming," Ithycar said. He beckoned both of them to his side. "But Ilsa's ties to Theo require attention. You know he has no family left here."

"None that would claim him," Ilsa said, darkly. "Or none that we can prove are his on such short notice. There's too much chaos in his history for anyone to want to look this closely at it. He deserves much more than I've given him."

"But you gave him what he needed," Aracle said, simply. "And that counts. He wanted love and guidance; you're still giving him that. He needs it more than some random plot of property he should've inherited decades ago. Don't make yourself miserable over things you can't change. What would you need to do for him now?"

"He'd need a representative, given that his Circle is so new. If he wants Harry to stay out of the proceedings though, I have no idea if that's possible. They'll want proof that things were worthy of the filed complaint and if they weren't, then both him and the family will be judged. Abuse is serious."

"Of course, it's serious," Bhindi said, darkly. "What kind of monster treats family like that?"

"The worst kind," Bahn said, his own voice a near growl. This wasn't what he was after. The stunt on the rooftop was supposed to generate better results. Not things like this. It made him want to snap and growl at something. "I don't like this, Ilsa. Fix it."

Ilsa rubbed her forehead. The edge in his voice meant he was serious, but the grim looks on her Bonded's faces said that they would back her, no matter what she chose to do. "...trying to," she said, quietly. "You know I'll handle it."

Bahn sniffed.

"If I claim the case on Theo's behalf, we can at least keep it out of the public view." Ilsa ticked it off on her hand. "If they insist on it, we can have it blocked for a fee. It'll be pricy, but they won't be able to argue after that, if they refuse my claim."

"Do it," Ithycar and Delani said, in perfect unison.

"He deserves some privacy," Bahn said, still frowning.

"We can back him, can't we?" Loren wanted to know. He'd slipped into the room, bringing his warmth with him, despite the current scowl. "They haven't got a blade yet."

"Not for lack of meddling," Bhindi muttered. "I thought you had that covered." She glowered at Bahn. "I thought you had a few other things covered."

Bahn's glare was even sharper. "Don't come crying to me, just because you want more blood than I've already spilled. Carve into them yourself."

"How about no carving?" Takar asked, delicately. "Or doing it so that it doesn't overlap?"

"They meant to kill him!" Bhindi snapped, viciously. "How can I not take offense at that?"

Her words caused Bahn's expression to soften, just barely around the edges. "Alright," he said, grandly. "I'm not stopping you. Have at it."

Bhindi's silvery-gaze fluxed feral-pitch-black. "I'm not deaf," she said, through clenched fangs. "I can hear you loud and clear."

"Good." Bahn inspected his claws. "Then I won't have to repeat myself. Don't drag anyone else into it though."

Delani pursed her lips. She held her tongue though, when the twins seemed to reach an unspoken agreement between them. She hated when they didn't explain all of their schemes, but sometimes, it was better that way.

The tension in the room upped significantly.

Loren stayed for another minute at best, then hissed and slunk away, his fiery hair a subdued simmer around his shoulders. He'd just wait for Ilsa or Greta to explain it later. The explanation wouldn't be long in coming, if everything was wrapped up neatly.

Greta 'ported back into the room, swapping out her dress armor for a Flexi-armor jumpsuit for casual wear instead. She held two shiny black scrolls in hand with official golden ribbons on them, a self-satisfied smirk on her face.

The entire kitchen seemed to perk up.

"Is that what I think it is?" Ilsa tried to stand, but Aracle refused to let her up, locking both arms around her waist. "Aracle-!"

"Shh. Stay." He kissed her neck. "Give those to Ithy, Greta."

"Aracle!" Ilsa squirmed.

Ithycar took the scrolls, allowing Bhindi to take one, and Bahn to start unrolling the other. He read over Bahn's shoulder, his own expression shifting into a satisfied smirk.

"Oh, that is nice," Delani said. She nudged Bhindi forward. "Go show Ilsa."

Bhindi eyed her warily at the end of the table and elbowed her twin instead. "Go show Ilsa." She said, handing over her own scroll. She climbed into Delani's lap, beginning to poke at the breakfast plate.

With a roll of his eyes, Bahn eased out of Ithycar's embrace and circled around to the table to hold out the scrolls to Ilsa's impatient hands. "Congratulations. You'll be happy to know that because of your rank and title, we are now entitled to a blood price in the matter of the Vaughns' and on behalf of Harry, as he has no acting or Intended Gheyos registered."

A choked sound of relief left Ilsa's lips. She sagged back into Aracle's arms, unresistant when he continued to pepper her neck and shoulder with kisses.

"You're alright with both of them?" Greta asked. She rolled her shoulders back, stretching her arms overhead. "I could help."

Ilsa snorted. She pushed free of Aracle's arms and stood, pulling him up to stand beside her. She'd liked the kisses and cuddles, even if her mind was slowly shifting to thoughts significantly more bloodthirsty. "You know damn well I'm not going to settle for one."

Greta sighed. "It's the last of his family. There'll be an issue somewhere. You can't just tear them apart because you don't want them to exist."

"And Theo's my mentored student," Ilsa said, fiercely. "Harry is his world. You can see that as plain as I can. Harry was a child that was forced to grow up too fast and alone. No one should ever have to do that because the ones called family cannot bear to treat them properly. It's not right."

"Of course, it isn't right," Aracle rumbled. He squeezed her shoulders, gently. "No one's questioning your right to take charge to claim retribution. Just—be sure."

"You've seen both of them," Ilsa said, stiffly. Her eyes locked onto Bahn's steady gaze. "And you've already chosen a side. That's as sure as I need to be."

Bahn smirked. "I chose that side a long time ago," he said, calmly. "Any monster that cannot show respect to a child—the smallest of us—" he laughed. It was a dark and devious sound, promising the sorts of things that would never be suspected from a dignified Elf.

A chill hung in the air.

Delani twitched. "And the Vaughns?" she checked.

"They should've learned their lesson the first time. I guess I wasn't thorough enough." Ilsa shrugged-lightly. She was more than pleased at the mention of a blood price, because it would allow her to do what she couldn't the last time.

Bhindi snorted. "Really? So, what will be different this time? I don't want a third time, Ilsa."

"...there won't be," Greta said, answering for Ilsa. Bhindi's words hit a sore spot for all of them. This had been one of those things that had fractured the fragile trust of their growing Circle so many years ago.

Even now, she could see the moment when golden eyes shifted to dark brown, edging towards black as scales surfaced along Ilsa's arms and neck. She watched Aracle guide Ilsa from the room, his voice low in her ear. She counted to ten, wishing she could join them straightaway, but someone had to stay and make sure they were all on board with the general plan.

"Definitely won't be," Ithycar said, pulling Bahn over to him. "We have them where they should've been the first time. That was still an extremely unnecessary risk you took," he said, sternly. A slight nip to the ear, settled his resurfacing instinctive reaction from that temporary fright.

Delani's lips twitched. "He apologized quite prettily. I'm sure he can extend that to you."

Bahn sniffed. But at a mild Look from Delani, he leaned forward and gave Ithycar a brief kiss. "...won't do it again," he said, charmingly.

Amused, Delani shook her head. He would, she knew. They all knew. But next time, at least, he wouldn't drag anyone else into it without warning them first. "The rest of you call the others to the War Room, please? We need everyone on the same page and Nara will want some time to think of the best way to handle this."

"New outfits," Bhindi mused, aloud. "Definitely something new."

"Anything you like, Princess," Okahn said. "Anything you want."

Bahn smirked. "Make it new," he said, nudging his twin with his foot. "Get that fancy set that we saw last month. You know the one."

"Oh, that is a good set," Bhindi agreed. Her sharp eyes flicked over Greta, looking her up and down. "It would even look good on them," she mused. "Alright. Let's go. There's a lot to settle today."

Bahn's laughter made them still. "It's going to be such fun."

HARRY AND MAURY – KALZIK GUESTHOUSE

"So, the fact that I'm dreaming them is good?" Harry asked, uncertainly. Explaining his dream of the Twins had brought them to an interesting point in conversation and he didn't quite want it to end.

Very good. Maury smiled, knowingly. You dream soulmates and the closer you are to each other, the more intimate those dreams may be. Of course, this depends largely on the individuals. If physical intimacy isn't something desired by either party, the dreams will remain affectionate and non-sexual.

Harry squirmed. The dreams had definitely gone there. The part that confused him was having both twins there.

Did you dream them recently?

"Define recently?" Harry said, weakly. His face was so hot, he was sure he was stuck in perpetual embarrassment for the foreseeable future. It wasn't the conversation, but rather the memory.

Maury chuckled. I'll take that to be recent. Now, why don't you tell me more about them? You've only hinted and suggested, but you haven't come outright to tell me what's bothering you about them.

A jolt of warmth had Harry relaxing at once, the embarrassment fading to a tolerable level. If he couldn't ask his own mentor this, then who could he ask? "I-it's a really-"

You can ask me anything, Harry. Maury said, kindly. And you are welcome to share whatever you are comfortable with. I promise you that I will keep our conversations with the utmost secrecy. You need not worry of that.

"It's not that," Harry blurted out, tugging at his hair. "It's just—the thing is—Oret—the Twins? They're...Charlie's brothers."

Maury tilted his head to the side. I'm not sure I see the problem?

"Brothers!" Harry burst out. "They're—all related! Isn't that—won't there be-? I mean-"

Ah. Maury shook his head. You don't have to worry about that. You'll find that the ranking designation overrides all sibling hierarchy and that while they may be more affectionate with each other, they won't cross the line you're worrying about.

Harry bit his lip. "Then how will they bond?" he asked, his voice whisper-light. "I know that they have to—with me and Theo and-"

And Charlie? Maury shook his head. There are many different ways to Bond, Harry—and you would not be the first Submissive—or dragel—to have multiple family members in the same Circle. Sometimes it's a matter of soul magic and others, well, it's personal taste. Not to mention there are some siblings that are just meant to stay together. Sharing each other's lives and knowing that there's a different kind of love behind it.

A tentative sigh escaped. Harry drew his knees up to his chest, mulling over those thoughts. It did help, a little. But he was still—worried.

Maury beckoned to him with wispy hands. Don't sit by yourself, he chided, gently. You're thinking too hard about this. Let me put it this way. Blood siblings are different than human siblings. I know that may seem more familiar, but remember that there are three parents for every dragel child. In rare cases, four—depending on the strength of the magic or the element.

"Three parents?" Harry frowned. "How does that even work?"

With a great deal of love and magic. It means every child has a sire, a carrier and a Third. The sire is typically the one with the most dominant rank, the carrier is the one with the strongest defensive magic and the Third is the one capable of bridging those two.

Harry bit his lip. "That doesn't make—sense."

Maury's smile softened. Dragel children are infinitely more magical than anything else in the realms, Harry. Rather like how Fae children may be born from a Star Flower. It's a lot of magic, maybe a bit of blood, and whatever little pieces of the parents that are given. I am not the most scientific man, so you will have to pardon my explanation. A Healer will do a better job of the specifics, but remember, you do not have to know exactly what comprises every molecule to believe it. Nevarah is a very giving realm. When there are some Circles that wish for children, but are unable to have them for whatever reason—there are children who are in need of mentors or simply who want a different place to belong. Everyone has their reasons and family is what you make of it. Not what it is given to you.

Harry sidled closer and settled in. "So, there's actually—bonded siblings?" he said, uncomfortably.

Maury sighed. Alright. Let's try it this way. Say you have a large Circle, yes? Multiple parents, different pairs or triads—quite possibly several children that don't share the same blood nor parents—just the magic and maybe not even that. That's a very different connection than human blood siblings. Of course, there are adopted siblings and step-siblings as well, that terminology still applies in some cases.

"I guess like Dyshoka and Kyle?" Harry said, slowly. "Dyshoka Kalzik and her adopted Fae brother, Kyle. They aren't really—I mean, they were adopted siblings, but when Shayla's soulcry rang out, it pulled both of them down there and now they're bonded."

A slight smile touched his face and Maury nodded. Exactly like that. There is also the point where magic will rewrite all sorts of things to make other connections more dominant than others. In the case of a soulbond—theirs specifically—I'd imagine their it overwrote any other designations, if there were any.

"So, if the twins really are—mine," Harry said, swallowing hard. "I wouldn't have to really worry about—them and Charlie?"

No more than I had to worry about Cole and Shar. Maury said, simply. They were close and affectionate with each other, but they were twins and they set their own boundaries for their interactions once bonded. It was normal to find them cuddled up somewhere, working together on whatever project they shared. They were always overlapping in some ways and I rarely ever found them apart. In fact, if there was ever a time when one of them wasn't quite like themselves, it usually was because their other half was missing or otherwise incapacitated. Getting them together would usually resolve that. Of course, even pair of twins is different, but you may find that helpful. That's not to say that your two won't want their own spaces, but it's something to keep in mind.

"W-would they be alright with that?" Harry ventured. "I mean, I don't want to split them up if they're—they've just always been together, see?" He tried to explain.

And you think they wouldn't want to stay together?

"I don't know. I just—I've always been able to tell them apart, sort of. George is a little quieter, a little more subtle, Fred is more protective and proactive, I guess." Harry mused. "Is it a Twin thing to get merged Circles or something?"

That would depend solely on the Twins, Triplets or more. Some Twins might court the same Submissive or Alpha. Some prefer to have a separate Circle, but merge later on. They'll usually cross-bond to the respective Alphas and ACES or Alphas and Betas. It really depends on the pair, Harry.

Harry gave a rueful grin. "I know. I just want to be prepared."

It's fine to wonder about it. Some Triplets prefer to bond in small Circles, but live within the same estate, overlapping in their daily lives, but still having the exclusivity for their respective Circles. Sometimes, it's just the closeness you want. A level of intimacy that is different from that of a stranger.

"They're Fire Elementals. I think. Charlie is, so they probably are," Harry reasoned.

Maury stifled a laugh. I hope they're lighter flames than mine. You could use some lightness. Mine were always grumpy.

"Always?"

Most of the time, he amended. They were Fire Elementals as well, but they had dark flames, which meant they needed to purify them often—through excess usage or they would feel restless, heavy and weighed down. That was unique to them though, they were Gheyic Pareya, specifically, Pareyas with strong Gheyic tendencies.

Harry stared. "Is that even possible?"

Maury stifled a laugh. Very much possible. It usually means they were too grey to hold a Gheyo rank. One of the requirements for a Gheyo rank is a zero-hesitation kill-strike. If you can't consistently manage that without repercussion, they shift you to a gentler rank.

"I don't think I like that distinction," Harry said, quietly. "I understand it, but I don't like it."

It's one of those things you don't have to like, Maury said, knowingly. There are a dozen other requirements, but while a Pareya protects, their goal IS protection. Not to fight. They will defend to the death, but they aren't wired for a fight. There's something that keeps them from dipping close to that feral edge—something that Gheyos willingly dive into and welcome.

His mind slipped back to the moment on the rooftop, where Ithycar Deveraine had called Ilsa and she'd come. With the entire Deveraine Gheyo Suite 'porting in behind her in a manner that left no doubt what would be taking place the moment Ithycar's portal had whisked them away.

Is it such a hard thing to reconcile? Maury asked, gently. He skimmed spectral fingers over Harry's hair. They are not lawless and ruthless every waking minute. They are only dangerous and immovable when they need to be.

"Did you have a lot?"

Oh, a full Suite, at least a few times over. Maury's smile turned fond. I had all ranks filled out and more Jokers than I knew what to do with. The Twins were the only Pareya I had, so we fell under a Military Designation. Ah—I did have two Mages, but they tended to keep to themselves and I was only an anchor for them.

Harry's brow furrowed. "What's an anchor?"

Mages are sort of like living magical generators. They have excess magic to the extreme, take the Cairothe and Arythe Clans, for instance. They have so much magic that it puts them at odds with each other and could actually consume them from the inside out. Kesmar knows why they've been gifted with it, but it isn't a designation they can outrun. Usually, they try to keep their distance from each other, unless they are bound to a realm, sworn to a guardian or Bonded into a Circle. They need something to focus on, to keep their head on straight, see?"

"An anchor." Harry scratched his head. "So Riven's a Mage? Riven Cairothe," he amended. "He was the one who was helping us with everything. He anchored me to Nevarah."

Good man. Maury praised. That is no easy task. Did you see something you liked?

Harry tugged on the ends of his hair. "I-I don't know?" he hesitated. "See, this is why I feel like I'm walking around blind. All the time! I get all of these feelings and random encounters and then nothing seems to come out of them and I'm left like- "

Do you like him, Harry? Maury interrupted, patiently. Did you see him and think, that is nice or that is good or I wonder what it would be like, if they were mine? That's what you're looking for. Something that makes you sit up and go—I want that or I need that.

Harry gave a helpless shrug. "I don't know! I was—I liked his magic. I think. It was pretty and powerful. He was—alright. Strict, but almost gentle? I don't know!"

Most mages are strict. They work with the kind of magic that would rip the fabric of time and space apart, if they so much as sneeze in mid-spell. There's a great deal of concentration and self-discipline required. No matter how scatter-brained or flippant they might seem at first glance.

"No, he was serious," Harry said. "Had a staff and everything Giant eye on the top. Kind of—you know." He pantomimed the blinking eye with one hand. "I guess I liked him? He was straightforward. He didn't make excuses or anything. Just told me what he thought."

And you appreciated that.

"...yes."

Nothing wrong with that at all. You said Cairothe though?

Harry slumped. "...what's wrong with that?'

They're Storm Elementals. You won't be able to court him. At least, not until you have a larger Circle and that's only if you catch his interest. Storm types are finicky that way. They won't join small Circles, unless they all share the same element and they don't want to be involved in the messy-early-rank-building that happens.

"…messy?" Harry bit his lip.

Depends on the Circle and the temperaments. You seem like you're building yours quite naturally and methodically. So far, you have some complimentary elements—Earth and Fire. Enough Earth elementals will keep the Fire elementals from rushing things and the Fire elementals will keep the Earth ones from staying too set in their ways. It's a good mix. Your next one will probably be along that line.

"So not a Storm? Not—Riven?"

Not a Storm. Could be Riven down the line, if that's something you think you want and there's enough of a connection to capitalize on it.

"Even if I'm soulbonded?"

Maury began to pet his hair with slow, wispy fingers. The thing with Mages, see, is that they have enough magic to do big things. Most of them have a specialty magic of some sort. It also means they can block a soulbond, if they aren't pulled straight to your side. They can also choose whether they want to answer that call.

"So, I have no chance?"

Didn't say that at all. I meant exactly what I said before. If you want to court him, you have to capture his interest. That won't happen until you have at least—let's see, there's you, Alpha, Beta, and one Pareya, right? That's three. You'd need at least an ACE and a King, preferably another Pareya. Ah, but if you want the twins, that would automatically give you a total of three pareya, which means you could technically look for a Rheyo as well, if you wished or an Advisor—things among the general ranks, yes? A Carrier even, you don't have to be set on children straightaway, to court a Carrier, but that's usually easier when you're trying for a child.

"I like Charlie," Harry offered. "He's good."

A Rheyo is not a replacement for a Beta. They're simply a second referee of sorts. They help to ease a Beta's burden in a large Circle, which could happen, if you fill out your entire Suite.

"How many would that be?"

Suite's court would be at least seven and you can have as many Knighted ranks below that as you like, the same for Jokers.

"Oret..."

I mean, ACE, King, Queen, Prince, Princess, Knight one, Knight two, Joker one, Joker two, and so on.

"Oh. How do they know which one they-"

They'll know. Trust me. Besides, it isn't as if you'll call them by title. You'll use their names. Their ACE or King, however, will call them by ranked title and their preference is taken into account then. There may be a few more obscure ranks, such as Page, Second Prince or Second Princess, but that is solely at the Suite's discretion and usually only in play when you have so many Gheyos you need to separate them out.

"Can you have more than one ACE?"

Maury hesitated. You can, but it's not a good thing, unless you have so many Gheyos that you need a second one, at which point, you'll have to get three total, to make a secondary triad of sorts, or it won't be pretty.

"How do I court one?"

Got your eye on one?

"Yes."

Ask them if they'll court you.

Harry choked. "What?"

Walk up to them. Ask for a moment of their time. Say that you appreciate their aura, their fighting style or the way their magic feels. You believe you're compatible, then you ask, would you court me?

A low whine escaped. "Oret-!"

You have to show a little interest and be perfectly clear at the same time. ACES' don't appreciate flirting when you're already committed. They want exclusivity. So, you can ask multiple ACES to court you, but the moment you've made up your mind or one of them accepts that intention, you must inform the others at once. Sometimes your ACE will do it for you. It's a pride thing for some of them.

Quiet grumblings came from Harry's corner. "What if you already asked and they didn't answer?"

If they didn't answer, then what did they say, exactly?

Harry sniffed. "That he had to ask someone."

Then they need permission. If he's a Training ACE, they have to ask their ACE. It's a ranking thing. If they aren't, then they are being courteous to whoever is hosting them. Either you have to ask or they have to ask. Which was it?

"He said he had to ask."

Ah. Then you will have to ask him again the next time you see him. If he is interested, he will tell you whether he's sought permission already. If he isn't, then he'll say that he doesn't have time for courting, but that you're welcome to send a favour. If you send one, he'll refuse it and that'll be the end of it.

A scowl replaced Harry's confusion. "What if I don't want to send a favour to get rejected?"

The favour gives him time to think. If he changes his mind, he can accept it. If he doesn't, then he can reject it and neither of you have to bring it up again.

"I like him," Harry said, at last. "I don't even know why I like him. I just—he's—nice."

Maury stared. Nice is not the word you use to describe an ACE, Harry, he said, amused. I feel that I should warn you not to tell him that to his face.

Harry winced. "I haven't. It's just—he is nice."

Mine was—complicated. A good man, but darker than he ever knew what to do with. It took us a while to settle in around each other and then some until we were truly comfortable. He was a brave and fierce soul. All ACES have their good points. But before you bring an ACE in, you might find it easier to grab those twins you have your eye on. Where are they, exactly? You haven't said.

Another sigh slipped out. "That's one of the problems, Oret. I don't know. I haven't seen them since I left Earth. Theo put in some requests for family connections and stuff. I think one for Charlie to get in touch with his side of the family here, but there's been nothing as yet."

They must be close by. You wouldn't be dreaming them that frequently or vividly, if they weren't. It's a hint that you're getting closer to making that dream a reality.

Harry's face warmed. "But how do I do that?"

Maury tapped a finger on his chin. How are your financials? he asked, at last. Are you reasonably well-off? Or not quite?

"I don't know that either. We've just come here," Harry said, shoulders arching forward. "We don't have anywhere to stay. I-I don't even know where my body is right now, though it must be somewhere safe. I feel comfortable. At home. I can tell that my Bonded are nearby and that they're alright."

Good read. Maury praised. You feel at home or you are home?

"At home," Harry said, quickly. "Kind of like how it was at Hogwarts that first year. I felt safe. Reassured."

Then you're a guest somewhere. Not a clinic, if you can still feel comfortable enough to find it reassuring. Probably a friend or a friend of a friend. Alright. How are your expenses then? Bought anything for the Hunt? Sold anything for the Hunt?

"Theo gave me this." Harry held up his wrist to show a dangling cord and a token. "Charlie has one too—wait. We need one for Ethan." His brow furrowed again, predictably.

I'm sure they'll see that he has one and if they don't, Ethan will remind them. He sounds like a sensible and good Pareya. I'm glad you've found him.

Harry beamed. Ethan was perfect for them and he liked the thought that his Oret approved.

What about clothes? New outfits? New trinkets? Weaponry?

"New clothes," Harry said, slowly. "We didn't bring much with us and I don't even remember what we brought, honestly. Theo handled all of it."

So, he's watching the accounts and making allowances for necessities. That's good too.

"New clothes?" Harry repeated. "We had to get fancy ones and I'm pretty sure I've got two or three sets now."

The Hunt is the one time where you want excess and elaborate finery in any possible measure. It's good that he's outfitted you with more than one set, but you'll still need a few more before the Hunt is over. Sounds like he's budgeting for that though. I assume he did the same for himself, Charlie and Ethan?

"Yes, to all three of us, no for Ethan. We've just—he's new."

Ethan will be included in the next round then. Maury mused. And what work does he do? Steady income? Inheritance? Volunteer in exchange of services?

"I-I don't know," Harry admitted. "He said he's a scholar, because he come from the Hartwood clan, but I don't know what that means and I haven't asked him."

It's good to ask. You shouldn't be worried to ask. If he said Scholar, it's likely that he writes research papers and subsists on a grant. He may submit things and have them published or put into action, or to win awards and prize money. It depends. Some scholars will take on teaching, if they like it and there are several established academies in Nevarah.

"Really?"

Oh yes. The most famous ones are the Merlin Academy, Noir Academy has a branch here as well and I think Despaira Elite was requesting a branch as well. Maury smiled. Which is to say, one is magic-heavy, one is dark-magic-creature friendly and the third is known for creating household names with each new wave of graduates. They're fairly high-magic level.

"Charlie was a dragon tamer in Romania," Harry said, softly. He'd think of schools later, when Hogwarts didn't feel so deeply entrenched in his heart. It had been his saving from the Dursleys and so much more than he could properly put into words. "He liked it and he was pretty good at it. How does that even work here?"

A dragon tamer? Maury said, admiringly. What an interesting career choice. He can still make use of his skills here, though perhaps he may need some Field Medic training and probably an apprenticeship of some sort for a year or two. Then he could help to wrangle Ferals. It's close to being a dragon tamer. We also have the Elderly fields where most of the older dragels who are waiting to pass on, tend to spend time in their dragon-forms. There's also the option that there are quite a bevy of magical creatures within Nevarah and there are also dragons here. Non-dragel dragons, mind you. We are a sanctuary for them. He might find that familiar and easy to settle into.

"I'll tell him," Harry said. "Thank you."

And what about Theo?

"He was the Nott heir," Harry said, fiddling with his sleeves. "I don't know how much or what for. We were supposed to combine estates or something. He was doing a lot of paperwork before we left, but I didn't see any of it. I don't know what went through or not."

Inter-realm accounts, probably, Maury said. Llevan—my Beta—handled all of our financials. He was good at it and I believe he did it on the side for extra. Ryu could never pin him down on that, but he always managed to make everything come out alright.

"Why can't I do it?" Harry asked, boldly.

Do you want to?

Harry hadn't known until that moment, that he at least wanted to try. He turned it over in his head, before deciding the idea agreed with him. "I want to try."

No harm in trying, but there'll probably be a learning curve. Ask Ethan whether he's good at that or not. Some pareyas are, some aren't. Some ACES like to do it as well, so they can see that everything's distributed fairly, especially if their Suite is circuit-fighter-heavy.

"Depends on the Circle," Harry said, half to himself. He thought of the twins and their side business and dreams of opening a shop. He wondered if they'd be good at it and if they'd show him or not.

Indeed. Which brings me back to my point. If you want to find your twins, you can escalate your requests or purchase certain tracking potions and spells. They have no harmful side-effects, but they do help to forge a long-distance connection, until your Intended are within range. Think of it as a long-distance favour.

Harry hesitated. "I don't know. That's kind of-"

It can be risky and pricey, depending on the potential Intended. Just an option I wanted to mention. You don't have to do it, if you don't want to or if you feel it won't work right.

RON WEASLEY - W/MARIANA AND CO.

Ron hobbled to the bed after a quick trip to the bathroom. There was something in the air in this mysterious place that made his joints ache less. That was a vast improvement from his grandfather's estate, even if he didn't know exactly why.

His partial transformation made his body ache in ways that he'd never discovered before. Even playing Quidditch hard, hadn't left him this sore the days after. He supposed it had something to do with claws and feathers sticking out where they shouldn't, but he wasn't an expert at magical creatures.

Or research.

Ugh.

That brought him full circle back to the series of thoughts he'd been studiously avoiding since arriving in Torvak territory. He'd sort of listened and ended up as a tangled up mess in the midst of a feud he knew nothing about.

Of course, he'd had to go and put his foot in his mouth-but honest-to-Merlin he hadn't meant it that way. At least, not really. It was just confusing.

But everything had gone from bad to worse and he didn't know what to do about it. His own situation had spiralled downward and there was no telling how he'd get out of this.

The raid on the Weasley Estate had left him shaken. On one hand, he hadn't expected his grandmother to lock him up in a cell, but then he'd started seeing things and that had been worse.

His rescuers seemed to be dangerous people. They weren't the attackers of the estate, if he'd understood all of the coded wordplay, but the best he could figure was that they were passing through.

And they knew his grandmother.

PEVERELL GUESTHOUSE – LEWIS, VINCENT, CORA. - DAY FIVE

"Lewis?" Vincent hovered in the doorway of the casting room on the second floor. It'd taken him a few minutes to track down his fellow Pareya and the effort frustrated him.

It wasn't until he stood directly behind Lewis, that his words seemed to register.

"...yes?" Lewis barely turned to acknowledge him, his attention clearly elsewhere.

"There's an official notice for you." He handed over the sealed missive. "It requires immediate attention."

Lewis took the missive and set it to the side of the desk. "Thank you," he said, simply. From the tense slope of Vincent's shoulders, he could read that something was bothering him. He wasn't about to pry and ask why.

Vincent growled. "What are you doing?"

"Inheritance Seal Removal," Lewis said, quietly. He picked up a gold ink stick and continued to outline the casting circle he wanted to use to remove Harry's Peverell Seal. He was sure the official missive was permission from their Clan head to proceed with the next set of approved preparations.

They wouldn't have bothered sending a reply through official channels, if it'd been denied. He was trying to craft a simple, painless way to remove the seal. The look on Theo's face when he'd all but demanded such, weighed heavily on him.

Something was off with the little Alpha, but he couldn't place what exactly he'd done to offend him. Not that it would've mattered, but still. There were things hinted that he didn't like. It would be so much easier if they all got along with each other.

Even if he had the slightest feeling that would never happen now.

"Lewis!"

A growl of his own built in his throat and Lewis struggled to swallow it down. He was not in the right headspace for one of Vincent's messy moods. Sure, he could feel the displeasure coursing through their Bond—he'd have to be dead to miss those obvious cues.

But that didn't mean he wanted to offer his own body in exchange for keeping the peace. That much he could read into Vincent's unhappy aura. While he'd hosted them, it was clear that Vincent hadn't been too happy with the intrusion into their private lives.

Even though he'd tried to explain Harry and their familial connection, Vincent's sole loyalty was to Cora, who was still not quite at her usual level of exuberance—or tolerance. Her usual self was better able to moderate and encourage them, often preventing the friction in moments like this.

He missed that. He missed her. He wished things would go back to what they used to be.

"It's for Harry," Lewis said, tightly. "If you don't mind, I'd like to-"

"You have other things to tend to!"

"He's a young Submissive that should be hunting while the Hunt is happening," Lewis threw back. "I've already done my duties for the morning. Unless someone has managed to deviate from their usual routine, everything is taken care of-"

Vincent's growl was deeper and less forgiving than before.

Lewis twitched. He swapped inks sticks again and forced himself to focus on the casting circle for the seal removal. If he didn't answer, then Vincent couldn't hold that against him. Sort of.

"Ever since you've-" Vincent began.

The door popped open and Cora trotted through, her hands tangled in her long, flowy hair. "Why are both of you here at the same time?" she asked, obviously annoyed. "We need to be moving to check production at the fabrication plants and there's at least a dozen more requests that came through from the-"

Lewis set the ink sticks down and obediently turned in his seat, hands outstretched. Cora came to him at once, turning her back so he could reach her hair easily. He drew a comb from one pocket and spelled it to order.

"Something simple?" He began to divide the hair into sections. "Henry took my place for the morning inspections. He said something about an adjustment at one of the side-plants. I think we have far less bloodstones than we should."

"How?" Cora scowled. "We didn't sell them." Her brow furrowed, her sharp gaze flickering to Vincent. "Did we? Did you check the purchase records like I asked you?"

The edge in her voice made Vincent bristle. "Of course, I did," he growled. "I checked within the hour of your request."

"Don't growl at me." Cora shifted from one foot to the other. "This is serious. If we don't have some way of proving that we didn't conveniently lose a realm-vital component to-"

"I said I did." His words were terse, scales beginning to show up and down the sides of his face. "And I don't appreciate your tone."

Cora gave him a Look, before her shoulders drooped. "Sorry. I don't mean to snap at you. I'm just—on edge. This doesn't look good and it's—something's not right. You know something's not right, don't you? I can practically taste it in the air and it's vile."

She quivered, stilling when Lewis patted her shoulder.

The unexpected apology was enough to stop Vincent's temper right there. He looked away, composing himself and then back at her. She was the absolute picture of worry, her brow furrowed, silvery eyes clouded, good arm rubbing over her cyborg one.

He sighed, irritated at himself and the situation. He hadn't meant to snap at her either. "...you didn't need to apologize," he muttered. He'd pulled rank on her because Lewis had irritated him.

A knowing look settled on her face and she held out her arms.

Reluctantly, he went to her. "…I'm sorry too," he muttered, a beat later. His eyes locked on Lewis' studious form as he continued to work on her hair.

Cora reached up to cup his cheek. "You're cranky from the anchoring, aren't you?" She danced her fingers along his jaw, tapping teasingly on his lips. "It's fine, you know. It must've been necessary, whoever it was. You know that never happens unless it's necessary."

"Makes the air heavy," Vincent grumbled. He clutched her tighter, leaning into her touch on his face. Her fingers were cool against his warm scales and he liked it. Maybe he should've gone to her in the first place, like his instincts had called for. He'd been trying to give her space though and apparently, that wasn't necessary.

Lewis finished styling her hair and tucked his comb away. A flicker of understanding passed between them, as he rose from the chair, gently drawing Cora back to him.

She turned to catch his eye and sighed into the kiss that followed.

It was short work to share her between them, basking in the warmth of renewed connections. Vincent finally relaxed, as he felt their bonds open wider than before, snapping into place with definite deliberation.

CHARACTER SNIPPET – VOLDEMORT - EARTH

Of all the setbacks he'd experienced so far, this was one that Voldemort was not very happy to endure. Some of his previous ones had been temporary obstacles or personal challenges that he'd used to try and increase his power and reach.

This—was new.

Regrouping from the chaotic attacks on Hogwarts and the Burrow had left him feeling restless and irritated. His followers were failing him—again.

Their lack of inspired imagination and foresight left much to be desired. He was twice as irritated when Rastaban brought a certain little tidbit of information to him.

"He did what?" he snarled, ignoring the way Nagini flared beside him. "That meddling old fool! He thinks this is just like that last time, doesn't he? Thinks he'll take me down just like he did with Grindelwald."

Voldemort swept from the room with Rastaban trailing hesitantly beside him, taking care not to trip over Nagini's glorious self. She slithered beside him, at the perfect pace, her presence both a comfort and a reminder.

Even if things were taking longer than he'd expected, he was in this for the endgame. A world free of those pathetic muggles and a paradise for those born with true magic in their veins.

Maybe it was time to raise the stakes. Remind the Wizarding World that their priorities should still include him, instead of Dumbledore's ridiculous machinations. Spells at Hogwarts should be the least of their worries.

His current irritation was due to one specific problem that he hadn't been able to resolve. It was because of Dumbledore that he'd come to know there were other worlds and realms besides the current one they resided in.

Dumbledore knew of places that were hidden away—pockets of time and space—places where the darkest of magics could be left to simmer in peace. Growing in power and prowess, until the even strongest had no choice but to surrender beneath such massive might.

A darkened thrill ran through him. The problem was Dumbledore. He had some way that he was able to access those places and while he'd tried—he really had tried—the only thing he could note was that Dumbledore was not human.

That was a significant bit of information he meant to use against the meddling fool at some point in time, but for now, he'd just wanted more answers. What was Dumbledore? And how did he get to be that way? And could his power be siphoned off?

With that much power at anyone's disposal, of course immortality would only be a simple spell away. It was a specific kind of immortality he desired. Not just like the Vampires—blood-sucking creatures dependent on other lesser forms to survive—no, he needed more. Power, prestige and control.

Absolute control!

"My Lord," Rastaban huffed, struggling to keep up beside him. "We received notice from one of the Vampires replacing the-"

"From the raid?" Voldemort rasped. "I told them to come see me in person. Not to send messengers."

"...he sent his Childe," Rastaban said, uncomfortably. "And he is refusing to speak unless you are present."

Voldemort didn't answer. He simply changed directions and started in the direction where said Vampire Childe was most likely to be waiting. The shadows along the wall seemed to stir, as if frightened by the sudden movements or change in atmosphere.

His lip curled, faintly as Nagini kept pace with him. Something was—wrong. He just didn't know what it was yet.

The Vampire waiting was a disturbing sight. It was none other than Ricardio's Childe, Weston.

Clad in pastel baby blue satin from head to toe in a custom-playsuit, the young man looked more like a doll than anything else. It was only his eerie red eyes and the sharpened glint of his fangs over one cherry-red lip, that gave away his vampiric nature.

"My sire sends his greetings," Weston said, bowing deeply. "He regrets that he is unable to visit you in person-" he sidestepped the slicing spell that carved up a chunk of the floor. Crimson eyes flared brightly with suppressed power. "I am to tell you to meet at the Old Burying Point for the Elder Council's concessions."

Silence reigned.

Voldemort waved a hand and Rastaban hurried forward, attempting to shoo them away.

Elder Council? He'd thought that mess was solved with the convenient coup he'd helped them stage. Bloody vampires. They were so entrenched in their ancient ways and pathetic attempts at manipulation.

Pity he'd had to sacrifice Lucius for that. The elder Malfoy had been invaluable with his honeyed words and aristocratic manner. Among his followers, there was none with such polish.

Save for perhaps, the Malfoy heir who seemed to have gone into hiding.

Just like Harry Potter.

Voldemort rose from his cold throne and made his way across the chilled, stone floor. Taking over Malfoy manor in this way, had granted him a far more agreeable space, compared to their previous hideouts.

There was just the small matter of keeping certain unwanteds out.

Bellatrix's familiar cackle made him twitch. She was mindlessly devoted in a way that sometimes, tried his patience. He'd sent her off on a minor errand, though from her sounds of deranged delight, she'd enjoyed it.

"My Lord?" she simpered, in her favourite way. "One of the Mer-people to see you." Her words slurred together as she twirled her wand and her wild curls twirled along with it.

The wet squelching sound filled the room.

Voldemort sneered at the dripping creature that dared to approach him. He hadn't seen one of the Hogwarts Mer-folk since he'd been at the school. But any insults were swallowed back as Bellatrix danced around the creature, her wand at the ready.

"He says he has found a portal," she mocked. "A portal to the fountain of youth!"

Voldemort froze. "Really?"

The slimy green creature wiped its bulbous nose with one dripping, vine-wrapped arm. "There is a p-p-portal," it quavered. "L-l-leads to N-ne-va—Nevarah."

A/N: Hey guys! I worked on this yesterday, but ran out of time to finish the edits, hence the extra day. T_T At any rate, this was a whopper of a chapter. I think I tied up a few plot points here and only started like, two more. (the Vamps and Voldysnort). As always for the sexy stuff, find the full scenes on AO3. I'm so glad I got this chapter out! I've started some scene blocking for Chapter 110 (while this chap was fresh in my mind, lol). So hopefully, it won't take as long for the next update. This chapter clocked in at a whopping 20k, so enjoy the read!

Also, if you're keeping up with my original stuff, book one in my new series, Haunted Hearts, releases on June 26th! It's a paranormal dragel adventure bit. Think Kadels, Reluctant heroines, and ghosts. :P The sequel to Soula Deveraine's story Treasured Sands, is also close to a finalized release date and should be coming out this summer! The Dragel's Song will also be available on Amazon this summer as well (like this month-cough-srsly) and Episode 5 of that is also being scene blocked.

Thanks a BUNCH to everyone who's read, reviewed and shared about it-you make me ridiculously happy and I'm thrilled to have such amazing readers like you~!

Thank you for your continued support! I love you guys! ~Scion