A/N: Harry Potter and his world belong to J.K. Rowling, Warner Brothers and anyone that has received licensing rights. I am grateful she gives us the privilege of playing in her world.

-oOo-

Chapter 29

April 6, 1995

Hogwarts, Scotland

Draco had waited three days to finally find Fleur alone. She was down by the lake, looking out towards the spot where the stands had been.

Unlike that day, it was quiet. There were no enchanted boats taking people to and from the center of the lake. No people cheering or screaming. The Black Lake was glassy calm. It reflected the Forbidden Forest, the mountains and the school depending on where or how you looked at it. The calm water hid the turmoil that had happened below and was still happening in many of them that had slid below the water that day.

He had tried to be as noisy as possible as he approached her silent reverie. Draco didn't want to sneak up on her or give her the impression his intentions were anything other than just to talk with her. She didn't look up as he came to stand next to her. "I can keell 'ou right now weeth one fl'ck o' my wand," she stated quietly.

His heart pounded in his chest. He didn't doubt her words. "Then why don't you," he asked. It was a reaction he winced against the second it left his mouth. He wasn't hear to start trouble today.

Fleur didn't move or look at him. Her accent was thick and disdainful. "Why are 'ou 'ere? 'ere to see eef 'ou can keell t'e other 'alf-breed?"

"I never meant to hurt anyone," he told her.

She snorted. Her nose scrunched in disdain as she talked. "I t'ought 'ou wanted all t'ings like me dead? I've 'eard 'ow 'ou and 'ours 'ave talked about t'e Potters and t'e ot'ers"

Birds tweeted and flew around them as life had started to return to the lands around the castle. There were signs of rebirth or the promise of new life all around them. And here he was, talking about death. "I don't want them dead," he said in a very soft voice.

"Ex'use moi," she said.

"Potter and I will never be friends, but I don't want him dead. Discredited. Disgraced. I wouldn't say no to, but not dead." He took a letter out of his pocket that had taken him five days to finally write and get correct. He placed it on the ground between them.

She turned to look at him. "W'at ees t'at?"

"I am sorry about your sister. I was only trying to save my wife," he told her.

"Well 'ou did t'at," she said angrily.

He closed his eyes. "I have not told Pansy that your sister was not the only life lost down there. I haven't told anyone. My parents don't even know." He was her husband. Even with his parents' rights over him, he had rights over her. The bond and traditions of their world ensured that. Madame Pomfrey had been very discreet in talking with him first and he had forbid her telling Pansy or others.

The bell rang up in the school. Soon, the sounds of students moving around to their last classes of the day or starting to wander the grounds were coming to them. Fleur looked at him. He tried to keep his own tears in. He hadn't been able to morn his potential child. Pansy couldn't know. It would gut her. He was getting to know her well enough to know that.

His father couldn't know. If he did, his father would try to kill anyone that caused it. He hated his father, but he needed his father for three more months. Mother had taught him that. His father was Lord Malfoy. If he were to be sentenced to the Veil or Azkaban, there would be a chance he would lose the Lordship himself before he was named Scion in July. Draco needed his scion rights before that happened. Then the Wizengamot couldn't strip the Malfoys of their titles and fortune.

Fleur moved and he took a step back, his wand coming to his hand. He had to be here for Pansy. She couldn't be left to his parents.

She didn't raise her wand, instead stepping over to the letter and picking it up. He watched her as she opened it and read it. By the time she was done reading, a few tears were running down her cheeks. "I don't know eef I can ev'r forgive 'ou, and I am sorry for 'our loss. I weell ask people to stop t'reatening 'ou."

"I am not asking forgiveness and I don't care about me, Ms. Delacour. I can handle myself. I need them to stop threatening Pansy. I also don't want them bothering my betrothed when it is announced."

She looked at him. "One eesn't enough for 'ou?"

"Pansy is enough. Unlike in France, though, I am property of my father until I am seventeen. He wants an heir if I don't survive the last task. Tomorrow it will be announced that I am betrothed to Tracey Davis. We are to marry April 29th," he told her.

"Eesn't she a Loup-garou," she said after a few minutes.

He took in a deep breath. "She is a girl. Pansy and Tracey have been friends since they were little. Pansy misses her as a friend." He had seen how affected Pansy had been since Christmas. The shakeup of the second task had spooked her. He felt awful for not telling her, but no-one could know. "She misses both of them."

Draco held Fleur's gaze for a long time as the girl regarded him. "Did 'ou che't to get into t'e tournament?"

"I tried to put another's name in. Dumbledore's wards changed it to my own name for Hogwarts. That name was not chosen. Someone else put the name in that came out of the cup," he said. He figured he had nothing to lose if it meant Pansy, and now Tracey, were safe.

At the start of year, even three months ago, he would never have swallowed his pride to see others protected. He couldn't bear the possible loss of his wife, or another child. The blond girl haunted his dreams most nights. Both of them.

"'Ou love 'our wife," she said.

Draco nodded. "Yes."

"'ou weell treat 'our ot'er wife well?"

Draco met her eyes. "I will not be my parents. She will be loved." Draco would love her in whichever way he could. He doubted it would be what he felt for Pansy, but Tracey would not be condemned. He couldn't be responsible for losing another life that was under his care.

He wasn't sure how long they stood there. He didn't waiver his stare as she seemed to weigh him. He hoped he didn't come up lacking for Pansy and Tracy. After a while she spoke. "Moi weell not forgive 'ou. I don't know eef I ever 'ill. I weell tell moi fat'er of this. 'Ee weell leave 'ou alone." With that, she turned and walked off towards the large carriage on the grounds.

-oOo-

April 15, 1995

Hogwarts Express, Scotland?

Bonnie moved to the back of the train, taking the last available compartment. She didn't want to be up where many people would be passing by. Her bleeding had just ended yesterday, and she felt like she could smell more than she wanted around her.

Neville, Ron, Luna and Jason followed her in. Annabel had gone off with her brother for the train ride. She had said she wanted to spend time with him. Bonnie suspected it was Wayne she wanted, otherwise she doubted the third year would be hanging out with the fourth years.

"I am glad I am not a Prefect," Ron said. "I would not want to do rounds or make sure everyone was on the train."

Bonnie shrugged. "If that was my responsibility then what's the issue?"

"Ron just doesn't like to work," Neville said with a grin.

"Nothing wrong with only doing what you need to," he informed Neville.

"How in Merlin have you moved up to seventeenth in class this year with an attitude like that," Neville asked.

Ron shrugged before fishing a napkin out of his pocket. "Same way you are now thirteenth."

Bonnie knew the boy complained, but he had been right next to his best mates in the library and doing workouts since October. Both boys from Gryffindor had, with Neville pushing almost as hard as Harry and Hermione. Ron didn't push himself quite as much as them, but he wasn't far behind. Bonnie and Jason were just about a match for Ron now physically. She thought Ron just liked to complain. "I can't wait for the trolley to come around. So, have Harry and Hermione said anything about where we are going this week? I still can't believe they are getting married. Barmy, if you ask me," Ron said before taking a bite out of the sandwich that had been in his pocket.

"I think it really sweet," Luna told him. "They are mates and should be celebrated."

Bonnie smiled at Luna. In the last two months Luna had become her best mate. She had also joined them on thier workouts and Sunday morning. Since the attack, Bonnie and Jason were joining the Pack on Sunday morning. She sat next to her, making sure there was room for Neville to settle in the other side. It was spot he took easily, eyeing Jason when he had tried to sit there first.

"Ron, you do realize they are already married," Neville asked.

Ron sighed with his mouth full of a sandwich. "I knowf," he said around the food.

"Ronald, it would be better if you chew and swallow before speaking. Belligerent Entengulls may find it a good nest. You don't want their larvae eating their way out from your intestines," Luna said serenely as she took out a copy of the Quibbler and started to read.

"Belligent what," Ron asked, looking at Luna like she had a hole in her head.

Jason snorted while Bonnie smirked. She wondered how many of these creatures Luna actually believed in and which she didn't.

Neville gave her a look as though he didn't know what to do. "Right. So, I know Remus is coming on Sunday afternoon to get Gran and I. I was going to stay for two nights, how about you," he asked Bonnie.

She smiled. "I kind of live where they are getting married," she told him.

"Oh, I didn't know. I thought Harry and Hermione lived with her parents now," Ron said.

"We all live in a big house with Hermione's parents, Remus and others. Prim had to convert some of the old servant quarters in the attic to more bedrooms. I'm going to give mine up to sleep in a tent," Jason told them.

Bonnie laughed at him. "You know you don't have to give up your room, Jason. You just want to sleep outside."

"Why wouldn't you," Jason asked. "I am making smores and going to look at the stars."

She didn't miss the way his eyes shone with his excitement or the way his scent was as sad as excited. She knew he missed his father. "You want company," she asked him. Jason had become a brother as much as Harry. Hermione, Annabel and Tonks were her sister. Remus, her serious uncle, and Sirius, her silly uncle, but with a dark side that always seemed close to the surface. She was finding she loved them as much as her mum.

"We should all sleep under the stars. I am sure Harry and Hermione will join us," Luna said to them.

Ron looked at Luna. "On their wedding night? Wouldn't they, you know," he said, his face going a little red.

Bonnie laughed. "I think they do that often enough they will just want to spend time with their friends."

Ron turned an even deeper red. Neville looked abashed but didn't look away from her. She really liked his blue eyes and the way he shied away from almost anyone else but her or the people in this compartment. "Bonnie, what is an eight-letter word for a dragonkin that only has two legs," Luna asked, quill in hand, head on Bonnie's shoulder and her father's magazine open to a crossword puzzle.

"Lindworm," Jason said pulling out a deck of cards from his pocket.

"I am not playing snaps today," Bonnie told them.

"Oh, I should have known that. I was thinking of a taragrant, but that is nine letters," Luna told him writing down the answer. Bonnie didn't ask. It wasn't any animal she knew, but Luna was like that.

Jason gave her an evil grin. "Afraid you'll lose?"

"I don't want my paws still hurting tonight. You know how uncomfortable that is," she told him.

Neville elbowed her. He looked a little shy as he held out a small jar with a pale pink paste. "I have a soothing balm I made from asphodel and dittany. It will heal any burns you might get."

It spoke volumes of their friends that they wouldn't say anything about her comment about what they were.

"I didn't think you were any good at potions," Ron said moving to make a space to put the cards on.

"This is a paste made from the fresh crushed plants Professor Sprout showed me," Neville said.

"Neville, isn't dittany rather rare," she asked him.

Neville shrugged, but she saw a little color come to his face. "Gran let me take some snippings from our greenhouse and Professor Sprout has allowed me some greenhouse space. Half of what I grow will go to the Hospital wing or Potion Labs."

"What are you doing with the other half," she asked.

"Gran has allowed me to sell to the apothecaries or use it as I want," he told her.

"Is the wolfsbane and wiggentrees going to be ready for harvest before the next moon," Luna asked.

Neville went three shades of red. "How did you know about that," he asked.

Bonnie looked at him, his reaction not making sense. Luna spoke in her airy voice before Bonnie could say anything. "That is why you brought them. Didn't you want to give Professor Tonks the ingredients for the wolfsbane potion? That was Himalayan blue petal wolfsbane, wasn't it. Isn't that supposed to be more potent for the potion? Rare though."

Bonnie's eyes went wide. "I thought I could start getting enough every month for your pack and the others at the school," he said lowly.

"Neville, that is worth a hundred galleons or more for that much potion. Can I pay you anything? Or maybe we can talk to Harry," she said.

"I thought it was more like hundred galleons just for that breed of wolfsbane," Luna said. "Not including the other ingredients."

"Luna," Neville said embarrassed.

"Nev, that is generous," Ron said. He looked a little red. "I wish I could help them that way."

Bonnie agreed it was generous and sat up and kissed Neville on the cheek. "Thank you," was all she could say. Neville looked shocked and his face turned a deeper shade of red.

"Ron, you help to keep the Pack safe. You escort them around and stick up for them. Harry and Hermione are very appreciative," Luna told him, still acting as though she wasn't noticing what was going on and she wrote something else in the crossword puzzle.

"Right, if your done with your boyfriend, we playing," Jason asked with his smile taunting her.

She glared at him. "Shut it, you," she threatened. "I'm going to read."

Neville shifted next to her, but he didn't protest the jab or say anything else. He met her eyes for a few before quietly looking out the window. Bonnie's heart leapt. He had looked at her in a way that the wolf in her stirred and panted. She hadn't felt that particular reaction before and wondered at the heat that radiated through her body. It was pleasant.

Ron and Jason played Snaps while she read her Potions book. She was finding potions was one of her favorite subjects. Herbology wasn't, but she understood the importance between them. She was happy Neville didn't mind helping with Herbology. On the whole, they were quiet until Harry and Hermione joined them. As the train moved south, she found that soon she started to feel the pull of the wolf. Some months it would be very strong on the day of the full moon, many times the couple of days before, but since being with Harry and Hermione she found that wasn't really the case. Her wolf would stay calm until close to moon rise. Today it wasn't staying down.

Hermione looked at her. She could tell Hermione could tell something was off in her. "You need go to the lav," Hermione asked as she sat on the other side of Luna.

She looked at Hermione and shook her head. She wanted to be around her pack, and Neville. It was the only things settling her. Luna was looking at the Quibbler, with it still open to the crossword puzzle. Bonnie felt that odd. Nudging Luna, she said quietly, "You alright," she asked.

Luna lobbed her head onto Bonnie's shoulder. "Something is off," she told Bonnie, her eyes unfocused and her voice more serious.

Hermione looked at them. Harry, as though sensing it turned from a conversation he had started with Ron to look at them. "What kind of wrong," she asked her friend.

"Can you feel it," Luna asked.

"As though your wolf is unsettled," she said to her Alphas. Hermione frowned. It was better now they were here.

"I can feel it in my blood," Harry said.

"I can too," Hermione responded. "Like it's restless and close to the surface?"

Bonnie nodded.

"You all feeling well," Neville asked. He looked at them concerned, his eyes lingering on him for a few seconds longer than the others.

Luna closed her eyes. "There is just something wrong," she said before opening her eyes. "Harry, stay close to your pack."

Harry frowned. "Hermione, I'm going to get Annabel."

"She's in the next car. Ron or Neville, can you go with him," Hermione asked. Bonnie could see the look pass between them. They didn't want to leave their pack without one of them here.

Ron looked at them. "Yeah, I'll go."

Neville got up and she felt like two of her anchors were leaving her. Harry must have seen the sudden panic on her face. "Nev, why don't you stay here. Ron and I can get this."

The blond looked at Harry before nodding. "Sure, Harry."

After they left, Neville turned to them. Jason had grown quiet and was sitting on the bench with his knees to his chest. "What is going on," Neville asked.

"I don't know," Hermione said. "Shortly before we got in here Harry said his blood was tingling. That usually doesn't happen until it's close to time to turn. A few minutes later, I felt it too." She rubbed her arms. "Luna is right, something feels wrong."

"Is Daphne or any of the berks on the train," she asked.

"Bonnie, they are wolves," Hermione corrected her.

She gave the girl a look. "You can't stand them as much as I can't."

"I like Tracey," Jason said. "She doesn't bother us."

"You just like Tracey," she teased. A smile spread on his face before it crinkled. "You alright?"

Jason squeezed his knees to his chest. "My stomach feels unsettled."

Hermione scrunched her brow. "Neville, can you see if Harry is on his way back. Daphne and Blaise were staying at Hogwarts. Tell him Tracey is up in the first cabin. I think she should join us. Luna, I am not sure you should stay."

"Sure, Hermione," he said getting up.

Luna looked at her, her eyes focusing. Her head shook. "None of you will hurt me."

"Luna, please," Bonnie told her. She didn't want her friend hurt. Her stomach was also starting to bother her

"What time is it," Luna asked.

Neville was in the hall and looked at a watch on his arm. "Twelve-thirty three."

"This doesn't make sense," Luna said.

"What doesn't," Hermione asked.

Bonnie felt her body tingle. It was like when it was close to her change. Jason looked sallow. Hermione not as well as she did this morning.

"There is a penumbral lunar eclipse tonight, but that is peak at twelve-oh-seven," she said. "Is it possible you are feeling an effect of what is to come?"

Hermione frowned. "Wouldn't Remus or Alexandra warn us?"

There was a silence in the car, everyone looking at Hermione. Luna suddenly sat up. "Our charts at Hogwarts are based on standard time. It's day light savings time. The sun is at its zenith at one-oh-seven."

After a moment, Neville spoke up. "They are coming back. Hermione, would you like me to go with Harry to get Tracey?"

"Yes, Neville. Dobby," she called out. A moment later, Bonnie saw the elf appear. He looked happy to be called until he looked at his Mistress.

"Mistress called Dobby," the elf said before looking at her. His face turned to concern very quickly. "Mistress, what is wrong," he asked.

"I don't know. Can you get us to Bliyhl House?"

"Yes, Mistress, but I am not sure I can do all you. That is a far distance," Dobby said looking as though he was letting her down.

"Will a portkey work," Jason asked.

Hermione and Luna shook their head. "The train is protected like Hogwarts. It is also enchanted to not let any student off before Kings Cross Station unless there is an emergency," Hermione told them.

"Remus stayed at Hogwarts for the night to do the second dose of Healer Tonks potion," she spoke up. She shifted as her body got that uncomfortable feeling that came with the change.

"Dobby, can you take us back to Hogwarts? Straight to the WRC House?"

Dobby nodded. "Dobby can do that."

Hermione took out her wand. "Expecto Patronum." Bonnie watched as an elegant wolf came out of her wand. It was slightly larger than a normal wolf, not the gigantic size of Harry's. "Tell Remus Dobby is taking us to the WRC House. Have him get Daphne and Blaise there."

"Hermione, what is going on? I feel funny," Annabel told her.

The spectral wolf jumped and went clear through the roof. "Dobby, take Jason, Annabel and Bonnie," Hermione ordered.

"I am not leaving without you," Bonnie told her.

"You are going," Hermione ordered and she felt the pull of her Alpha's Mate. "Dobby, now."

"Hermione!" The elf took her hand and before she could rip her hand out the elf turned and a second later, she was standing in the place she hated every moon. "No! Dobby, take me back!" She didn't want to abandon her Alphas.

"Miss is to stay." He lifted his hand and was gone with a snap.

Jason had sunk to the floor, not looking well. Annabel looked at her with wide eyes. "Why are we here?"

Bonnie let out a scream. "This isn't supposed to be happening. Annabel, do you feel like you do before a change," she asked.

The look said it all. Bonnie was rubbing her arms. It was like her skin was crawling, but it was broad daylight, on a cloudless day and it was hours before moon rise. This was just all wrong. Annabel screamed as a white-bluish wolf burst through the ceiling. Remus spoke out of it. "Locking myself in the Lobo Dorm with Ms. Greengrass and Mr. Zabini. Stay there. Tonks and Sirius to arrive shortly." As his voice stopped, the patronus dissipated.

The soft crack of Dobby came and she turned to see Harry, Hermione and Tracey. Tracey looked to be in as bad shape as Jason. Bonnie started to feel the pain that she used to feel as the change would start before the wolfsbane potion. It was muted, but it was there. "What is going on," Tracey said with fear. Her hands were shaking and looked to be elongating.

"Dobby, lock the doors. Don't let anyone in unless they are an animagus we know," Harry ordered sinking down next to Hermione.

Bonnie whimpered through several minutes of pain, her body feeling like it wanted to tear itself apart. A few minutes later, she found herself laying on the catwalk of the WRC Containment House. Merlin how she hated that name. It made them sound like criminals.

Her breaths came in ragged gulps. Someone moved nearby.

"Hermione," a croaky Harry said. She heard a groan.

"That hurt," Hermione said. She turned to see Harry kneeling at Hermione's side. He looked around and caught her eye. It took a moment to realize he was still human and in his clothes.

"Bonnie," he asked.

She forced herself to sit up on shaky arms. "What the bloody hell was that," she responded.

Harry snorted. "You're fine. Jason, Annabel and Tracey, are you alright."

Jason whimpered before rolling onto his back. "I thought I was changing," he told them.

"I did too," Annabel said.

Harry helped Hermione sit up before helping Tracey. Tracey swayed before grabbing her head. "I think I'm going to be sick," she said scrambling to the edge and tossing up her stomach contents into the cages below. Harry reached over to make sure she didn't fall. Hermione tried to stand and fell down on wobbly legs.

"Are you three alright," Hermione asked them.

Bonnie shook her head. Her body hurt. It was like when she was younger. "I will be," she told her.

"I hurt all over. Can I just sit here for a while," Annabel asked.

Before Jason could answer, Remus' wolf patronus came in. "No change. Stay where you are. Tonks is on her way."

"Hermione, can you send a response," Harry asked as he moved Tracey to a sitting position.

"Expecto Patronum." Where Remus wolf was thinner but powerful, Hermione's was sleek and graceful. "To Remus. We are staying here. No change here."

Her Patronus took off.

"I have to learn that," Bonnie said.

Tracey looked at them with wide eyes. "You can cast a patronus," she asked them in awe through her haggard state.

"Harry could last year. I've only been able too since around Valentine's Day," Hermione said. "Harry, how do you feel?"

"I'm fine," he told her. Bonnie could see his pinched eyes. He was in pain like them but already moving about as though it was nothing. "What the hell happened?"

They all looked at each other in silence. Eventually, Hermione said. "Luna said there is a penumbral eclipse tonight. She was wondering if this could be a side effect of that."

Harry shook his head, as though trying to clear it. "Why wouldn't Remus or Alexandra warn us? If they knew, Remus would have never allowed us to go on the Express. What about your father and the others?"

Hermione looked at him. "Would a patronus reach that far? Harry, I don't know what is going on."

"Were are you lot," they heard Tonks.

"Dobby can only let Miss in if she is her wolf," Dobby said.

"Let me in, Dobby!"

"Tonks! Dobby, let her in," Harry yelled over Tonks explatives.

The doors burst open. Tonks had her wand in her hand and walked in a few steps. She took a look at them and let out a breath. "Are you lot alright?"

"We think so," Hermione answered.

Bonnie still felt so soar.

-oOo-

April 16, 1995

1:07 AM, Hogwarts, Scotland

Sirius crouched down, looking into the cages. All the wolves were acting agitated tonight, wolfsbane potion or not. It was a lunar eclipse and the moon had an eerie brown-reddish tinge. Many would call it a blood moon. What concerned Sirius was that he had never seen his friend act this way when in school or after they graduated. He would remember Moony being this agitated. Or at least he thought and had looked up dates of Blood Moons. James and him would have run with Moony during a blood moon while at school.

Harry and Hermione were doing what they could to keep Bonnie and Jason calm. They seemed irritable and had snapped at the people on the walkway a few times. Annabel and Remus had received the normal potion with what happened earlier, but both had had the same reaction that Greengrass had had. Shortly after turning, all three of them threw up. After that, Moony had started to pace and looked ready to attack, even if his eyes were clearer. It was too dangerous to let Andromeda down there tonight.

Andromeda was pacing, acting as agitated as the wolves. Tonight, Sirius had only allowed two of his Aurors and the two Tonks on the walkway. Except for Andy, they were all Animagus, in case something went wrong. He was expecting to get in trouble with Le Brun for this, but something was way off.

Daphne had stirred and risen to challenge Blaise, who had been challenging the Potters. The boy had relented after a few minutes. Tracey was the only acting calm tonight, sitting in a corner and rocking.

"This isn't right," Andromeda said for the tenth time. "Sirius, I need to go down there."

"Andy, I will stun you myself. You are not going near them tonight."

"Sirius, you would not! My oaths are to help them. I need to know why things are not going as planned tonight," she told him.

"Andromeda, every person in the world I treasure more than myself is down there tonight. You think I don't want to know either? How much longer does the blood moon last," he asked.

Pilson tapped his watch with his wand. "One hour thirty-eight minutes."

Remus looked up at him. The man's eyes looked clearer, closer to his human eyes. He had never seen the man so lucid during a turn. Sirius saw pain and concern in them. "Bloody hell, what is wrong with you tonight," he asked.

Harry suddenly barked and snapped his jaws a few times as Blaise stood up and started to howl. The two black werewolves bared their teeth and Sirius had no doubt if they got out he would have a full on pack fight. he frowned, knowing Harry and his pack would rip the others apart.

Sirius couldn't let that happen.

"Recheck the wards. Make sure they are stable," he told the other Aurors in the room.

"Wotcher, luv," Tonks said as she knelt and cast her wand. Remus had turned to support his alpha, sparing Tonks a look before moving to the side of the cage that was towards the Greengrass pack. She may not be an Alpha yet, but Sirius could see Daphne would be.

Tonks sniffed as she moved to Annabel's cage. She was acting more like Tracey now. As Harry sat but, still growling at the other wolf, she sat and curled her legs to her chest, trying to stay far away from the sick that was on her floor.

-oOo-

April 16, 1995

Hogwarts, Scotland

From the top of the Headmaster's Office, the procession of fifteen people from the old store house looked like ants. They were making their way up to the castle.

Albus rubbed his arms. Something was very wrong. He could feel it in the magic around the castle. He could see it in the group that was walking on the grounds. There was something going on with the werewolves he didn't know and had no reference to understand. That alone was enough to send an icy chill through him. Never mind the fact that the werewolves said it felt like they were changing in the middle of the day.

Books, scrolls and parchment littered his office. He had been up all night trying to discover what was going on.

He held a great amount of trepidation letting the nine beasts back into his school. What if this wasn't the only time?

He had never dealt with magic on this scale. Reports had come in of other werewolves having similar experiences around Scotland.

Watching them enter the covered bridge, he frowned. As much as he didn't want those beasts back in his school, he couldn't deny their actions. Instead of giving into the beast, like he had always seen for those not on wolfsbane, they had all sought refuge. He had talked with the Potters before their turn last night. As loath he was to admit it, they had controlled their pack and had the presence of mind to lock themselves away to prevent harm to a train full of unsuspecting students. Remus had done the same here, barricading himself in the Lobo Dorm with the other two that had stayed behind.

All that behavior was so unlike a werewolf. He couldn't make out his intended werewolves from this far away, but he knew that the black hair boy and his mate were at the center of it.

How many years had he tried to find a way into the packs? Forty? Fifty years?

Always he had been rebuffed. He had thought Remus might finally be his way in, but until recently he had been too gentle a soul. Though, Albus had to admit he had never spent as much time with as many werewolves until this year. The dynamics of a pack were different than he had thought. He had always wanted Remus to show the wolves what it could be like to live among wizards and be peaceful. He knew many tried to live that way, but the Wizengamot and prejudices had restricted what they could, driving most werewolves towards their darker sides to survive.

He had failed to understand that until recently. Advocating Remus to be so meek was destined to failed. Even in a pack like the Potters, and what he was suspecting would be the Greengrass pack, the wolves congregated around power. An alpha led the pack with that power. For many, it was the violence of their nature that led the Alpha. It was a domination over the others in a pack.

To the Potters, it was power, but it was a soft power that brought them together out of respect and love. Albus had no illusion that that soft power could turn hard at any moment, having numerous examples of that, but on the whole they didn't give into the beast. None of his pack did. And they only used the harder power when they needed. For that, he had seen many in the school give them a grudging respect. Perhaps it was a respect he could use?

Perhaps all his plans were not in ruin. Could Harry be used to bring the packs under control? Could the beasts truly be tamed? Could the new potions Andromeda Tonks was trialing work to reform them?

If he could use Harry to get the werewolves under control, then Tom would be lacking an attack dog that had been used to devastating effect last time. Perhaps it was time to discover what Tom was up to. That could be very important now that he also knew the prophesy was still active. Tom must still believe that Harry was his largest threat. After seeing the boy grow this year and with the magical power he now had, Albus was inclined to agree with the man. Albus found that he was looking at the boy as a future rival.

As he thought about it, he felt the pull on his magic. "Damn Remus," he muttered. The man had put him in more shackles then he had thought. He was not to involve them in any plans that way.

Could he guide Harry and his pack into taking control of other packs?

His magic settled. He could guide Harry. How was he going to guide Harry? The prophesy still held sway over the boy. Even with Tom's Soul shard gone from the boy, had Albus missed an opportunity to turn the mutt into an attack dog of his own?

The other horcruxes would need to be dealt with now if he wished to use… Albus winced at the pain from his oaths. He would need to guide the boy… he winced again.

Apparently his intentions had to match his words.

Albus would need to become a mentor to Harry. There was no pain. Albus felt it though if he mentored Harry, then the boy would be a match for both Tom and him. Albus was not ready yet to step back. His dreams of a preserved wizarding world were standing on a dangerous precipice and Harry and his allies would be the key to it. Tom and his Death Eaters were no longer the way to preserve his world.

Albus could see that. A resurgent Voldemort would find a resistance that hadn't been there before. To pit those flocking around Harry and Cedric against the Death Eaters could see a catastrophic loss of magic. One that he wasn't sure Britain would recover from for hundreds of years.

He wished he knew how many horcruxes, but with the part in Harry gone, it was imperative for him to live. Albus had come to that conclusion now.

Albus sighed.

He moved over to a cabinet containing many memories, all revolving around Tom. He had been such a handsome boy. For years, he had let his own feelings cloud his judgement and it had cost more than just the young man he once knew. How could he have been so blind and how the bloody hell could a boy of fourteen show him that?

Albus was going to have to let the boy he loved go. It would be for the greater good.

A knock came at his door.

"Come in," he said aloud. In came in another soul who was doing what he must for a lost love.

The black billowy robes accompanied the man that had once been key to his plans. Severus was still useful, but only until the last Horcrux could be found. Then Harry could have his go at Tom.

"Headmaster, the monsters have come back?"

Albus wasn't sure if he agreed with his Potions Master or not. "Yes, Severus. They are welcome at this school for as long as they don't pose a threat."

The man snarled. "And what of yesterday. Those foul things tried something that almost turned them. What will it take to ban them from this place? What will it take to put Potter down? He is too dangerous."

"Severus, you shall cause no harm to them. The Potters may be werewolves now, but they are still children." The sour taste in his mouth was as much from Severus' disgusted face as his own conflicted feelings. "They have a right to be here."

Severus sneered. His dark eyes showed his hatred for Harry. He had thought Severus was finally turning a corner for Harry last year, that was until Sirius Black's escape and his blaming Potter. Not that Potter and Granger weren't the cause, but Severus could never know. He had a feeling that the man would hunt them down if he knew the truth.

"The other students have a right to live and not fear being hunted down..."

"Severus, that is enough. What is it you want?"

The man looked sour before unbuttoning his sleeve. "It is getting darker, more painful. The Dark Lord is returning Albus. Last night, at the peak of the Blood Moon, it burned, as though it was an echo of the calls he used to do. What is going on, Albus? I thought the mutt had killed his last remains second year."

Severus was bright. He had figured what the book was within a minute of seeing it. With the man's occulmancy skills, there was no way he could deny it. At the time it had seemed that knowing it wouldn't have meant much. Then he had his suspicions of Harry. That was two fragments gone. Would the fool be foolish enough to split his soul more? "It appears I might have been mistaken, Severus. There must be at least one more vessel out there."

Very rarely had he ever seen Severus so pale or frightened. Within seconds, it had passed, and he was a stone of emotions. "How many more of those abominations," the man asked in a low tone.

"I am unsure. To make one is abhorrent," he said.

Severus left eye twitched. "You know the depravity the thing was capable of. How many, Albus?"

He turned to look out the window. "I know of one other. I had been afraid before now to search it out, thinking if no one found it, he would never be able to come back."

"Where," Severus said with loathing to his voice.

He turned to look at Severus. The man had gone into his lock down mode. All emotion and thought were blocked. It had been many years since this man had been in the Dark Lords presence, and given his current mental state towards Harry, Albus wasn't sure he wanted him in the same room as Tom or a piece of his soul.

"I have an idea. I plan to go tomorrow night. I wish you to be available for my return on the off chance something goes amiss," he told him.

Severus eyed him for a long moment. "Why not Poppy?"

"Because you are the most knowledgeable person, besides myself, in the dark arts and their counters. If something were to go amiss, you would be the only one I trust."

"You place too much trust in me, Albus," Severus said.

Albus shook his head. "I place just enough." It was silent after that as Albus looked out his window. A chill ran up his arms as he felt a small pulse of what had hit yesterday. It was like an aftershock. There was a very ominous feel to the magic.

"Is there anything else you wish," he asked.

"Yes. Tell your supplier that we will need more silver before the next moon. Then, I would like you to produce more of the special death cap draught."

He didn't see the glint of joy in Severus eye. "We were told the last shipment was the last we could receive for a long while."

"I understand, but I am uncomfortable with what happened yesterday and would like some insurance." He would not be able to use it Potter and his pack, but it could be used it more of the beasts found their way onto the grounds. Daphne and her runts would be safe too. He could not afford to upset Lord Greengrass. The man was the head of an alliance of six houses. That could go very wrong for him in the Wizengamot.

"You know that potion is only good for about three months? We still have another month on our current stock," he told Albus.

"I am aware of that, Severus. I just like to be prepared," he told him.

-oOo-

April 16, 1995

Blyihl House, Devonshire, England

It was a little past noon when they took the floo from Professor McGonagall's office. Harry had insisted that the rest of the Pack go before him, leaving only Remus, Tonks and Professor McGonagall. "You go through, Harry. We have a little business with Professor McGonagall. "

"You won't be long," he asked them. Harry didn't want to see his pack separated today. Yesterday and last night had been worrying and he didn't want to worry anymore. He still felt off from yesterday, his blood still tingled and the he could swear he felt the magic around the castle and it felt off.

"We won't be long, Harry," Remus said.

"Go spend time with our girl. Tomorrow is a big day," Tonks said with a wink.

"Yes, I look forward to attending," McGonagall said.

Harry nodded. Hermione was already his wife. Nothing would change that. She was looking forward to the ceremony though, and he hoped it would help settle her mother finally. "You won't be long?"

"No, Harry. Trust your Beta. Don't wait for us. We can apparate."

Harry looked at him before nodding. He stepped up to Professor McGonagall's floo and threw some powder in. "The Black Wand," he said clearly before stepping into the green flames. It was not his favorite form of travel, but it was better than portkey and about the same as apparition. It was the easiest way to travel about 600 miles in a matter of moments.

He stepped out of the flames with more grace than the first time he had ended up in Borgan and Burkes. He just barely had time to register Bonnie and Jason before a frizzy hair woman grabbed his shoulder and pulled him into a hug with Hermione. "Oh, Harry," Mrs. Granger said with emotion. "I'm so glad to see you two."

Hermione hugged her tight. "Mum, that's enough."

His wife gently pushed him away, probably sensing his unease. Harry really didn't like other people touching him. Well, Hermione could touch him all she wanted. The only other people he would actively encourage to touch him was his godfather and Remus. "It's good to see you too, Mrs. Granger."

"Where's Remus," an attractive chestnut hair woman asked.

He smiled to see Trisha McKinnen. Remus had told them if anything ever went wrong, they were to find her or her husband. They would find a way to help them. "Tonks and him were going to talk to Professor McGonagall. He said we should get going without him," he turned to Mrs. Granger at the end.

"Mr. Potter, if you ever need a hand, any of your Pack, all you have to do is ask."

He nodded. "Thank you, Trisha. We will help you if needed. Never hesitate."

She came over and patted him on his cheek. "You're cute, but a bit too young." Hermione growled and Harry flushed. The woman chuckled as he looked at Hermione, who looked less than please. "Don't worry, Mrs. Potter. I'll make sure he stays out of trouble."

Bonnie snickered and Hermione growled at her. "Hermione Jean Granger, that is enough."

"It's Potter," she said irritably.

Mrs. Granger sighed. "I know, Princess. Alexandra and your father have convinced me of what is going on. Give me this last day to still think of you as my little girl."

Hermione's expression softened. "I'm not that little anymore." She hugged her mum again.

"If you lot are good, I would like to get on the road," Mr. Granger said poking his head into the bar.

Harry was glad that the barroom was mostly empty. They all filed out and piled into two cars. It had been decided that it would be best for them to use the cars from the Black Wand to prevent magic tracking to Bliyhl House. After yesterday, they weren't sure what was going on. The Grangers took them to a Land Rover. Annabel, Jason and Bonnie fit into the back seat while Hermione and him used fold down seats in the back. It wasn't exactly comfortable, but luckily it was only a half hour drive to Bliyhl House.

"Ok, why don't you all go get some rest. We'll get you up about five," her mum said as they pulled into the drive.

Annabel had fallen asleep on Bonnie's shoulder, who was just staring out the window. Jason had been slowly drooping his head and jerking up suddenly for the last twenty minutes.

When they got out, Harry gawked at the side yard. "Hermione, I thought it was like twenty at most," he said looking at a new gazebo on the side lawn and what must have been fifty chairs or more. The Gazebo had some type of climbing plant up its posts with white flowers with purple centers

"Mum, why are there so many chairs," Hermione asked as her mother got out of the car. "I know of only twenty-six people we invited."

"And even that is alot," he said in a low voice.

"It is everyone we are close too," she responded.

"I know, princess. Prim wanted to lay out more, just in case," her mother said looking at her. "Come on. Prim wanted to keep all that a secret and show you herself. She is very proud to do this for the Potters. She still loves your family, Harry. She only let me plan things, set the menu and decorations. She is insisting on doing everything herself."

Her father chuckled. "She hexed your mother out of the kitchen last night when she went in to help with dinner."

"She did not," Hermione said looking shocked.

Her father was still chuckling as her mum didn't look as amused. "Floated her into the hall and glued her to a chair until Dawn came to her calls."

"Yes, it was very amusing. I was only trying to help with everything she is doing. It is my daughter," she huffed just like Hermione would when upset.

Harry nodded and smiled. Hermione had much of both her parents in her. "How about we try to get her more help. Dobby," he called out. After yesterday, he knew Dobby could easily apparate between here and Hogwarts, but not with anyone else without getting magical tired.

Barely a second later, Dobby appeared at their side. He gave them an uncertain smile. "Yes, Harry Potter?"

Hermione sighed. "Dobby, you aren't in trouble. You did brilliant yesterday," she told their elf.

Dobby grabbed his ear. "Dobby, don't hurt yourself. You did do brilliantly yesterday. Thank you, again," Harry told Dobby.

The elf finally smiled. "As Master and Mistress say. Can Dobby do anything?"

"I'm sure Prim has everything in hand, but can you please help her? I don't know how much is left to do for tomorrow."

Dobby's smile broadened. "Oh, yes. Yes. Dobby can do that for Master and Mistress."

"Prim doesn't need any help," another squeaky voice came.

He turned to see Prim. She looked tired. Her ears were drooping, and her eyes looked red. "Prim," his wife's mother started.

Hermione held up a hand. She walked over and knelt down, taking the small elf's hands. "Prim, do you know who I am now?"

Prim looked at her. "You are Heiress Potter," the small elf said with tears in her eyes. "Prim and her family have served the Potters for hundreds of years. Prim is the last of her family and you and your Scion are the last of the Potters."

He walked over and leaned down next to her. Hermione motioned for him to remain silent. Harry heard the crack of apparition nearby. "Prim, are you doing this because we are the last of the Potters? Are you pushing yourself for us?"

"Prim was just old enough to be released from my mother when Mistress Lily married Master James. It was a happy day when Master James asked if I would be Mistress Lily's elf. Mistress Lily loved Prim. Prim did all she could for Mistress and her family."

"You were Harry's mother's elf," she asked and Prim nodded. She gave a side long glance at Harry. "Prim, are you doing all this for Harry?"

She nodded. "Master James and Mistress Lily were so happy when Master Harry was born. Mistress Lily let Prim help her. She always talked about what Master Harry would do. Wondered who he would be. She talked one time about Master Harry getting married, that she hoped he could have the wedding she didn't. Only four guests were there."

"Myself, Remus, Alice and Frank Longbottom. The Longbottom's had gotten married two months before in a similar ceremony and we all thought it best to keep it small and intimate. It was too dangerous for anything larger," Remus said sadly. "Not that James and Lily had any other family to be there anyways."

Prim wiped at her face. "Prim wants to do well by the Potter's, Misses. The Potters always did well by us. The Potters were family. Prim should punish herself, Master Remus." She tried to pull her hands out of Hermione's.

"You will not hurt yourself," Harry commanded. Prim looked at him with tearful eyes.

Hermione moved to take Prim's hands again. "Primrose," Remus said gently and she stopped struggling. "Prim, would you like to return to the Potters? I am sure the Grangers can handle things here," he asked her.

He looked up at Remus. Hermione smelt uncertain. Harry looked at the elf. She looked so hopeful he couldn't deny her her wish if Remus decided to let her go. He knew Hermione wouldn't either, knowing what they did of house elves now. Hermione would do everything she could someday to find a way to release them from their servitude.

Prim didn't say anything. She couldn't speak ill of her current Master. Remus smiled at her. "Harry and Hermione, would it be possible for Prim or Dobby to continue helping down here when you don't need them," he asked. "I think Theresa has grown quite attached to her."

The elf blushed. "Ms. Terry is a handful, but Prim knows how to keep Ms. Terry out of trouble. No offense, Mrs. Jane."

Her mother nodded. "No. She is a handful."

"Remus, we don't order Dobby. If he wants to work for you when you ask that is his decision. You are Pack. You are family," Hermione said with determination while still looking at Prim. "Prim, if this is your wish, we will accept your bond. We will also let you choose what you wish to do, like Dobby."

Tears welled into Prim's eyes as she looked at Hermione. "Prim," Remus said. Harry saw Remus holding a scarf in his hands. It was a burgundy scarf that had to be Tonks. "I hope you don't mind, but I no longer need you in my service." He held the scarf out to her. She had heard of how house elves feared clothes. It was the sign that they had totally broken their trust with their masters. This time, Prim nodded and took the scarf. A smile teased at her mouth as she pulled the scarf to her chest.

Harry felt it this time, or maybe he recognized it this time as she reached out her magic. "Will Master Harry and Mistress Hermione accept Prim," she asked in a small voice.

He was about to say yes when Hermione spoke up. "Prim, I would like to ask if you accept us. Harry and I won't take you hurting yourself. We want to hear you speak up. You will also have to work with Dobby. I will not have you pushing yourself until you drop." Prim's eyes were going wider. "We also want you doing what you want. If that means you wish to stay here to keep an eye on Theresa, that is your choice. Harry and I will only call on you if we have a true need. Do you want to accept us?"

Prim nodded her head emphatically. "Oh, yes, Mistress Hermione. Oh, yes." Harry could feel his magic accept her as she reached out.

Hermione smiled at the elf. "Dobby, come here please."

Dobby came over with a big smile. "Yes, Hermione Potter."

"Prim, will you let Dobby, my mum or anyone else that would like to help you do so?"

Prim nodded her head. "Prim do what Heiress Potter ask."

"And you know that is a request, not a command? We don't order family," Hermione said. Prim's eyes overflowed with tears as the smile on her face grew wide.

"Yes, Mistress Hermione," she said.

Hermione smiled. "Good. Now, please let Dobby and others know what they can do to help."

She nodded before turning to Dobby, taking his hand and rushing into the house. Harry helped her up and Remus came up to them. "Expertly done," he told her.

"I am sorry, Remus. I know she has been a huge help around here," Hermione said to him.

"Hermione, I don't need an elf. I am a simple man and this house is more than anything I ever expected your parents to give me for our kind. I also have seen the way she looks at you two. I think this is better," he told her. "Besides, I don't think she will go far and she will probably listen more to your mum now."

Her mother and father came up. Her mother wrapped her into a hug. "I have been trying to get that elf to listen to me for weeks. She has been in a right state about tomorrow. Remus couldn't calm her down."

"I hate how they have to bind themselves to a magic master or place. If she wanted to help us, I wouldn't say no, but I want her to do it because she wants to," Hermione told her. Harry had a feeling he would have to talk to her later. He felt there was more to it.

Her mother moved back enough to hold her at arm length. "You seem so much older." She looked at Harry. "You both do."

Harry tried to stifle a yawn. The last twenty-four hours were starting to catch up with him. He hadn't slept well the night before, having strange dreams of his wolf trying to fight some great dark shadow. Then none of them had slept last night. Her mum gave them a look. "I think you two should go take a nap. I wouldn't want you to fall asleep at dinner tonight. Most of your guests are coming tonight."

"I thought they were coming tomorrow," his wife asked.

"Yes, well, this is a bit of your wedding gift. Now go get some rest. We'll wake you close to five. Dinner is at seven," her father said. "Remus, you have a few?"

"Of course, Dan. I'll see you later, Dora," he told Tonks before giving her a kiss. "Why don't you head to our room. I'll join you shortly."

Tonks nodded. "Not too long. You haven't slept either."

"Yes, dear," Remus said playfully. Tonks gave him a cheeky smile. They both looked tired. "You lot get going."

"Come on," her mum said pulling her along. Harry followed.

As she led them into the house, she pulled them off to a side room. "I wanted to talk to both of you for a moment."

"What is it, mum," Hermione asked. He could smell her apprehension.

"I just wanted to say I don't understand everything you two have been going through. I can't even pretend too. From what Remus has told us, I am so glad you two are safe and in one piece. It took your father some convincing, but I accept that you two are mates and what that really means. Even with your father, I can feel something. Also, no matter what, you two have a home wherever we are. No matter what happens. I don't care about this Alpha thing. You are both our children. Well, I guess young adults now, but either way, we are your family," she said looking more at Harry than her daughter for the last.

"Mrs. Granger, thank you. Thank you for taking me in over the summer and making sure we have a place to go," he said to her.

She gave him a resigned smile. "Harry, if we had known before, I would have acted sooner and we will never turn you away."

Hermione hugged her mother again. "I love you, mum."

"I love you too, Hermione. You and your husband," she said. Harry smiled. It was the first time she had fully acknowledged Hermione and him were married. He felt guilty for stealing her daughter in the way it happened, and they were young, but Hermione was his mate. He would do anything for her.

Soon after, Harry flopped in their bed fully clothed while Hermione went to the bathroom. He doubted it was more than a few minutes later when she rolled him enough to fit in his side.

They didn't see or hear Prim enter the room and cover them with the duvet at the foot of the bed. Dobby and her had checked in on all the Potter pack that was now sleeping in their beds.