Everything is J.K. Rowlings. I only claim the plot. Everything else is hers, all the characters and the magic, all of it. Please let me know what you think though, I encourage feedback of all kinds, just be nice about it!

So, a lot is happening in this chapter. I tried writing the Claiming based on how I kind of hope a warrior's death would be, a way of honoring soldiers on either side; those who just want to fight and defend their country but don't make it home. But also those who might at home and internally. I don't know if I conveyed and captured it well, but I tried.

Also, Harry might be starting to come to a realization about his feelings. Very slowly, he's not quite there but he's right on the edge. I think his friends will be able to fully help him in the coming chapters. So yay. Also, Harry and Marvolo will not be kissing during the holiday season. I'm sorry. But they still aren't quite there yet. But never fear, I've actually written their first kiss/feelings reveal (and I'm super excited about it) but it will be another month or two before they come clean. Probably around March, in the story, it will all come out. So hang on till then.

Now, the story recommendations. Thank you guys so much for all the story recommendations. I've been reading so many amazing stories since then and it's been amazing! My tabs are still full of so many stories. And I'm getting so many ideas for other stories that it's getting kind of hard to focus on this one, lol. I already have two ideas kinda sketched out. But I'm trying to make myself wait until this one is finished. I am also trying to write my own book at the same time after all. Which, speaking of that, what with me trying to balance my own book and school and this, I'll probably only really get one chapter published a month. If I can get more than that, awesome. But I think one a month is the goal I will set for myself.

Also, in regards to Marvolo. Some of you were speculating on this, and yes, I kind of envision Marvolo as a bit demisexual and maybe a bit sapiosexual, too.

And thanks to MP4, that gave me the idea for Marvolo's present.

I hope you all enjoy!

Merry Christmas

"Severus."

"Potter."

Harry smirked a little as he observed the Potions' Master. Hogwarts had just let out for Christmas Break and Harry had requested the dour spy to meet with him once he was available. Whether through fear of Marvolo, desire to get the meeting with Harry himself done and over with, or actually having some free time, Severus had elected to show up that very afternoon. Glancing at his watch, Harry determined that the Hogwarts' Express probably would have arrived an hour ago.

Admittedly, Harry had seriously considered arriving at Platform 9¾ just for the fun of it; just to see the reactions that his presence would create but Marvolo had strongly argued against it, and told him not to be an idiotic Gryffindor. Bored, Harry had almost gone along with the idea anyway but then Marvolo had brought up how he could be putting his friends and allies at risk by showing up and Harry finally relented. He would be seeing Neville tomorrow and his friends the day after Christmas anyway.

"Thank you for meeting with me so quickly." Merlin, Harry felt so awkward sitting across from his former professor. He and Snape might have reached a truce of sorts, but they were hardly friendly. Still, Harry hoped that being polite would help get the man on his side with less resistance. Snape sneered, but the intensity of the look was lost because his dark eyes kept drifting towards the Christmas decorations near the fireplace.

Harry really didn't like having the meeting in the library. He didn't like others seeing his and Marvolo's place or their decorations, but he hadn't had many other choices. He couldn't use Marvolo's office, because he actually did have work to do. Harry didn't want to use the Gathering Room because it was such a large space for a quick meeting of just the two of them. Harry didn't think the side room off the Gathering Room was accessible to everyone except him and Marvolo. And Harry certainly wasn't going to invite Snape into his bedroom, plus Harry wasn't positive that the wards surrounding Marvolo's private wing would allow anyone else either. So the library was the only option since it was too cold outside to meet on the patio and Harry didn't have an office of his own. Maybe he should ask Marvolo about that...No, Harry immediately dismissed the thought. He preferred working in the library or just sharing Marvolo's office.

"Yes, so don't waste the haste I spent to arrive."

"Relax, I'm not calling you here out of spite or malice. I just wanted to talk to you, see how the school is. I thought we could work on building up our working relationship, given the change of circumstances we've experienced in the past few months. We didn't really get a chance to address things in the summer."

Snape eyed him critically. "Why? I don't desire to be considered your friend and you shall never be mine. Why the farce of small talk. I have potions I could be brewing."

Harry ran a hand over his face, already rethinking his idea of making amends. "Well, if this went as I hoped, there wouldn't be a farce. And I'm not looking for friendship, I'm hoping for understanding, maybe? You told me where your allegiance lies back in August, and you already know that everything you tell me is in complete confidence because Voldemort can't use Legilimency on me. So I'm literally the only person you can probably safely talk to, I'm giving you the chance to utilize that."

"I don't need a shoulder to cry on, Potter."

"Oh trust me, I would never accuse you of being teary-eyed or faint of heart," Harry drawled with a roll of his eyes. "Look, forget it. It's an offer that's on the table, you're a spy and you can't trust many people, I'm offering myself as someone for you to trust who won't use what you say to manipulate you. But anyway, let's just move on. Dumbledore, what're his plans?"

"I intend to update my Lord tomorrow during the meeting. Why not wait until then? Unable to practice a bit of patience, Potter?"

Harry didn't even bother reacting to the pathetic attempt to rile him. "I won't be there tomorrow, I have plans."

"The Dark Lord is allowing you to leave a pre-scheduled meeting?" Snape asked, his eyes flicking to the Christmas tree and stockings once more.

"Well yeah, he can't demand my time," Harry frowned. "I'm my own person. And it's not like I attend all the meetings anyway. Besides, this meeting is a pre-scheduled Necromancy thing. Trumps what Voldemort does. Now, updates."

"The Headmaster is rarely at the school," Snape began, clearly eager to get this meeting over. "Especially in the recent months. His injured hand is becoming harder to conceal and the students are noticing his absence."

The hand again, Harry thought with a frown. Marvolo had refused to speak more on it but Harry was becoming more and more convinced that it was somehow connected to his attempts at preventing death.

"Has he said why he's gone?"

"He hasn't spoken to anyone that I'm aware of, though it is my belief that he will start including Longbottom in the coming term."

Harry nodded, his thoughts spinning as he tried to understand and predict the Headmasters' actions. It was a hopeless cause though because even when he was in the Headmasters' favor Harry hadn't been able to understand the man. Hopefully, Neville would have more information after the new year.

"Where do the teachers think he is?"

"You don't wish to know what the students think?"

Harry waved a dismissive hand. "I'll get the students' opinions in a few days, and no offense but theirs will be a more accurate depiction than yours will be."

Snape pursed his lips but didn't argue. It was strange, Snape just accepting Harry's comments and not offering scathing retorts. Harry wondered how much of it was out of fear of Voldemort and not wanting retribution for potentially upsetting an ally and how much was actually out of respect for Harry himself.

"They believe he is gathering forces to discredit yourself."

"And what do you think?"

"I believe discrediting you is a primary goal of his, however, I don't believe his outings are a direct relation. I believe he is still working to bring down the Dark Lord, how he believes to do this I know naught."

Harry nodded. Snapes' analysis made sense. A cold chill prickled his skin at the very thought of Dumbledore succeeding in bringing Marvolo. He knew Dumbledore wouldn't succeed. He couldn't. Harry wouldn't allow it.

"I think you're right. If he was trying to discredit me, he would be doing more things with the Wizengamot but he's been pretty quiet on the political front. Alright, good, anything else? Oh, why did he make you Defense Professor instead of Potions?" It was a staffing change that Harry had never actually understood. Snape was one of the youngest Potions' Masters in recent years, maybe decades, and sure he had wanted the Defense potion but resume alone, there would be few to out place him for the Potions' position.

"I am more than qualified for the Defense position," Snape said sharply, sitting stiffly and sneering.

"I'm sure you are," Harry placated. "Just saying, you're also a Potions' Master. From my understanding, there aren't a lot of qualified Potions' Masters in the UK. Who replaced you?"

"Horace Slughorn, the man who taught Potions while I was a student. Dumbledore convinced him to come out of retirement for this year specifically."

Harry frowned. What was Dumbledore's reason? Why would he pull a man from retirement to take a staffing position that was already filled? It made no sense. He tugged at his hair in frustration. There was something about Horace Slughorn that Dumbledore needed or wanted, Harry was positive. Something that meant the man needed to be in the castle, under Dumbledore's eye or protection. But why would Slughorn need protection when he was in retirement? What could the man know and why did what he knows only now become important? He would have to talk with Marvolo and bounce some ideas off of him. Maybe they could figure it out and start planning how to head Dumbledore off before he got started.

"Alright, anything else?"

"Nothing in regards to the school." Harry blinked. Why couldn't Snape just speak clearly? He was almost worse than Marvolo when he wanted to be evasive.

"Well, then what else is there not in regards to the school?"

Snape glanced at the tree and stockings once more. "Potter...are you aware of the amount of influence you hold over the Dark Lord?"

"What?"

"The influence you hold, the power that the Dark Lord has allowed you."

"I mean we're allies," Harry said slowly. Snape narrowed his eyes and pierced Harry with a glare that had Harry rushing to defend himself, even though he didn't know what he was defending himself from. "He listens to me, sure, but I mean I listen to him too. And it's not like he always does what I suggest. I mean, I don't either. But we're partners. You listen to your partner. I don't have any more power than any of his other allies and partners."

Snape stared at him and Harry shifted, feeling highly uncomfortable under his former professor's gaze. "There are no other partners, Potter. You are the only partner that the Dark Lord has allowed in all of his years of leadership." There was silence and Harry fidgeted again. "Are you aware that the Dark Lord is intending to give you a Christmas gift?"

"Really?" Harry asked, perking up in eager excitement. Marvolo was going to give him a gift? Immediately, Harry flushed at the incredulous stare Snape gave him. "I mean, I didn't ask him to do that. It's really nice of him to plan that."

"Exactly, you didn't ask him, and yet he is."

Harry stared at Snape, who returned the stare. "I mean it's really nice of him," Harry said again after another minute of extended staring. He was tempted to ask Snape what Marvolo was getting him but decided against it.

"Nice? You believe the Dark Lord is...nice?"

"Well, I mean not to everyone, I suppose. But to me, as I said, we're allies, partners. He has a reason to be nice to me."

"Potter…" Snape stopped and pursed his lips. "The Dark Lord does not have partners, he certainly doesn't buy gifts for people, he does not allow people to reside in his home, nor does he allow others to interrupt him during a meeting…."

"Well — but...we are partners..." Harry said but it sounded weak to his own ears.

"What kind of partners are you exactly?"

Harry frowned. What was Snape trying to say? Why couldn't he just speak clearly? Snape stood abruptly then, muttering under his breath, pinching the bridge of his nose. Harry's frown deepened, picking up the words 'pining', 'oblivious', and 'school'. Harry stood as well, but he didn't know what to say. What was Snape on about? The poor man probably needed more this holiday break more than anyone. Maybe it was the stress of a spy?

"Well, thanks for the update. I suppose I'll see you at the Yule Ball," Harry offered and Snape sneered again but it lacked almost all venom. The man looked more tired now.

"Yes, I suppose I shall need to be in attendance for that. Until then, Potter." Harry moved to sit in his favorite seat in the library after Snape swept out dramatically.

Finally alone, Harry let his thoughts drift: nerves regarding tomorrow, confusion about Dumbledore, eager anticipation for Christmas morning, a strange fluttering in his stomach at the thought of Marvolo getting him a present, and trepidation regarding his own gift for the Dark Lord. Why was Snape so insistent about how Marvolo was getting him a present, how no one else had been considered a partner, how strange it apparently was for Harry to consider Marvolo nice. His swirling embarrassment, jealousy, giddiness, and confusion compounded on each other, adding to a growing headache but he felt there was something there, just out of reach. An understanding, a clarity, an epiphany that kept slipping through his fingers. An hour later, Harry was no closer to sorting his own thoughts and emotions but it was time for dinner, so he shoved it all aside. He would try and ask Hermione or Ginny when he next saw them at the Yule Ball. They were better at understanding emotions and picking up on things. They would hopefully help everything make sense.

Harry exited the Floo and only stumbled a bit. Constant use meant he was getting better at this method of travel but he still didn't like it. He could Apparate now thanks to multiple lessons with Marvolo but he still needed to go by the Ministry to get his license to do so legally. Luckily, St. Mungo's was busy enough that no one noticed him immediately. When people did, Harry was pleased to notice the majority's reaction was favorable. He received a few suspicious and wary looks but not any more than he'd received when walking through Diagon Alley. He'd certainly received far more — and far worse — looks during his Second, Fourth, and Fifth Years at Hogwarts. Harry gave a courteous nod paired with a pleasant smile in the general direction of the lobby as he cleaned himself of soot and righted his robes.

Properly situated, Harry strode off with a vague memory of a destination in mind. Mainly, he didn't wish to remain and be ogled at; and if he walked with confidence people were less likely to approach him. Harry was admittedly nervous about today's events. He was about to Claim Neville's parents. His first time Claiming someone that was not muggle scum or on Death's hit list. He was praying to any entity he could to not mess this up. He swiftly avoided the bustling Healers, easily identified by their lime green robes, and made his way to the Fourth Floor. He wore thicker navy blue robes to combat the December weather while not resorting to continuous Warming Charms and Mimsy had assured him this morning that he looked very respectable. He'd debated wearing more formal robes or robes that broadcasted his Necromancer status, but thought normal but classy was a better route.

Marvolo had argued that wearing robes with his Necromancer symbol better suited the occasion but Harry argued that he didn't think wearing Deaths' symbol in a hospital would be appreciated. And while he wasn't doing anything illegal and was technically repaying a favor for an ally, Harry didn't want to shout his business to the world by wearing his House crests. He already knew that this would cause problems for Neville and his place with Dumbledore, best not make it worse.

"Lord Potter-Black-Peverell," a Healer said with a regal dip of their head when he reached the Janus Thickey Ward.

The ward didn't look any different from when he had visited last year except some of the patients had changed. Lockhart's area was still covered in his autographed photographs; the witch he remembered being called Agnes was still set up on her bed. There were a few additional residents that Harry didn't observe too closely.

"Healer Fawley," Harry replied with a quick glance at the name tag. He didn't recognize the face but he did recognize the name. He wondered how close this young man was with his other relatives, the ones loyal to Marvolo.

"Madam Longbottom is right this way," the Healer said and guided Harry to a separate room off of the main ward. Harry didn't remember seeing it when he was here a year ago but admittedly he hadn't been overly focused.

Augusta had thought it prudent to request a separate room for Harry to perform his Claiming and Harry had agreed. He didn't know how his magic would feel when doing this Claiming. He knew how overwhelming and intense it became when he Claimed Travers and Bellatrix and the muggles, at least based on his guards' descriptions, and if this ritual went similarly he preferred not terrifying the Healers and the patients already residing in the mentally ill ward. Who knew how it might affect them.

Healer Fawley opened the door and gave another dip of his head, maybe a bit deeper than strictly necessary for a simple, unaware Healer but Harry said nothing. Once Harry stepped in, Healer Fawley shut the door. It was a small room, smaller than his current bedroom and only slightly larger than the room he'd had at Privet Drive, with two beds and no windows. Now with five occupants, it felt a little cramped.

"Harry," Neville greeted, walking over to wrap him in a brief hug. "Don't worry, Gran already soundproofed the room."

"Hey, Neville," Harry said, returning the hug. "Augusta," Harry greeted the woman who stood a few paces away who returned his greeting with a simple nod. "How was the train ride home?"

"Boring, but we did manage to stage a pretty fun fight between the Slytherins. So that was interesting."

Harry chuckled and looked forward to hearing the Slytherins version of events later. "Are you still coming to the Ball after Christmas?"

Neville glanced at his grandmother before giving Harry a firm nod. "Yeah, surprised at the invite, but I wouldn't miss it."

"Great, sorry you can't take Hannah."

Neville reddened and Harry snickered. "It's fine. I don't think it's much of her scene. I know she knows about everything but I don't think she's ready to really witness it."

"I will not be attending either, Harry," Augusta said, making her presence known once again. "At my age, I have attended far more than my share of Balls and don't feel the need to continue to do so now that my grandson is fully capable of operating in the full capacity of the Longbottom name."

Neville turned redder, his shoulders rising as he hunched over slightly, and Harry beamed proudly at his friend. He knew how much it meant to his friend to hear that.

"I know he'll do just fine," Harry agreed.

Unable to ignore the elephant in the room any longer, nor able to postpone the reason for his visit without seeming completely crude and flippant, Harry turned his attention to the two beds. Frank and Alice Longbottom were dressed in nicer robes and not the typical white patient robes. Frank resembled a shell of the man Harry remembered from the photo Mad-Eye Moody had shown him. Eyes empty, skin sallow and hanging limply on his once strong and broad frame. In the next bed over his wife. Hair white, and her formerly round, joyful face thin and worn; her eyes overly large. Both of them stared at Harry, Neville, and Augusta with absolutely no recognition. Simply watching because of the movement and noise they made.

Harry felt a tremble of cold fear and sorrow at the sight. He couldn't imagine being stuck in such a state and thought he should probably tell his friends that if this were to ever occur that he wished them to handle it, not to make him remain like this, alive but vacant. A Dementor's Kiss might even be more preferable. Not that Harry would say those thoughts out loud.

"Now, you two are certain this is what you wish?" he asked, turning his focus back to Neville and Augusta.

Augusta held her chin high and gave a firm nod, her fingers wrapped tightly around her large red handbag. Neville swallowed, his eyes wet, but his gaze didn't waver. "It's the right thing to do. Even — even if it doesn't work."

"Okay. I'm going to perform the Warriors' Claiming. I thought this one was most appropriate for them."

"What other options were there?" Augusta asked sharply, her brow furrowed and her eyes sharp.

"Not many. Two don't apply at all. It's really just between the Warriors' Claiming and the Innocents' Claiming that do. From what I've read, the Innocents' Claiming is mainly for children, but it's supposed to be gentle and peaceful. It could be for the sick as well if that is the one you wish instead. But the Warriors' Claiming is to honor those who fought valiantly and honorably. It doesn't have to be done on the battlefield but it's most common from what I've read. I thought that given the fighting they did during the first war and then the internal fight they've faced for the past decade or so, well I thought it best to honor them by respecting that fight."

Augusta sniffed, her chin high, her eyes glassy. "Quite right."

Harry smiled gently and took another deep breath, trying not to fidget with his sleeves. "I'll have to do it one at a time and it should be painless. If you want to say your final goodbyes?" He offered.

Neville and Augusta turned to Frank and Alice, and Harry turned his back not wanting to intrude. He purposefully ignored the soft whispering behind him and tried to steady his rising nerves and twisting stomach.

"Harry," Neville said and Harry couldn't say how long he'd turned his back for. "We're ready."

"Right," Harry said nervously. "Do you...er...have a preference on who...which do you…" How the hell was he supposed to ask this?

"My son," Augusta responded, saving him from floundering.

Harry nodded and swallowed thickly. "Right. Okay."

Stiffly, he moved to Frank Longbottom's bed. The man just blinked at him, giving no other reaction to Harry's foreign and unknown presence. Harry took another deep breath before reaching out his hands. He placed one hand on Franks' forehead and the other on his chest. Harry could feel the sluggishly beating heart under his own clammy palms.

Clenching his eyes shut, Harry took another breath and sent out another fervent prayer that this all worked. Next, he sunk into his magic and welcomed the detachment his magic provided. Now knowing what the Life aura felt like based on his experimentation with Bellatrix, Harry could feel the warmth of the aura spring forth without having to see it. It felt faint and weak but steady. He opened his mouth and began to chant. It wasn't like when he Claimed Travers or Bellatrix. He wasn't filled with vengeance and hate, instead, Harry forced the respect and honor he felt, not just for Frank but for Neville and Augusta too, to coat each word he spoke. He called on Death to look favorably upon the Life he Claimed. Harry called on the valiant warriors and honored fighters of old to walk their brethren to the peace he so rightly deserved. Harry called on those with fire in their blood, adrenaline in their hearts, and fear in their veins to recognize a kindred soul. Either way, Frank Longbottom would die but if the Claiming went properly, and his Life was judged worthy, then Frank Longbottom would die in peace and with honor.

Harry felt the weariness of the fighters from beyond sweep through him. His own body and magic were mere conduits for those beyond to judge and guide the Life in his hands. He felt the pain that all warriors feel after the battle was done. He felt the bone-deep weariness of the sorrow and loss that soldiers feel for their comrades and families. He felt the souls judging Frank worthy. Felt the softness of the peaceful, pain-free place they guided him to. Felt the echoes of the welcome home cheer that lifted spirits after the war was won. He felt the acceptance and inclusion that all soldiers crave.

Harry felt more than heard the soft sigh from the man on the bed brush against his wrist, the heart beneath his hand growing still.

Sucking in a harsh breath, Harry tightened his grip on his magic as the rushing feelings he'd played host to left him. Opening his eyes, Harry blinked rapidly, finding his eyes a bit wet from all of the emotions he'd embodied. Frank Longbottoms' eyes were closed and he looked like he was asleep, a small smile on his face. Harry belatedly realized how thankful he was that Frank didn't resemble the decayed corpses that Bellatrix and Travers did after he Claimed them.

Harry pulled his hands off of Frank and noticed they were shaking. He ran a hand over his face to help gather himself. Feeling a little weak, Harry pushed off the bed and walked slowly to Alice's bed. Sitting down, he observed the woman's face. Her eyes on his, but looking too vacant to hold any awareness. It hurt to see the same soft, kind, open eyes that Neville shared looking so dead and dazed. It hurt to look at and reminded him of his own fears: seeing his closest friends dead, specifically because of him. Glancing behind him, he saw Augusta and Neville gripping each others' hands. Both had tears streaking their faces. Harry thought he might actually have some dripping down his face too but he was still too mentally distant — thanks to his magic — to care. Neville caught Harry's eyes and gave a jerky nod, so Harry turned back to face Alice Longbottom. He repeated his actions, placing a hand on her forehead and another on her chest. Her heartbeat was just as sluggish as her husband's but spiked erratically like she might sense something about to happen but not coherent enough to know what or why.

Taking another breath, Harry shut his eyes, loosened his grip on his magic, and began to chant.

He repeated the call for Death to judge favorably, for those who fought valiantly and honorably to judge the soul he Claimed and to judge her well. The wave of feelings crushed him faster this time and Harry wasn't sure if he was just better at this Claiming or if it was because the fighters and warriors of old had just known and lingered. Maybe both.

Harry became a conduit once more and succumbed to the multitude of emotions that the Warriors' Claiming called for and demanded. The raggedness of fading adrenaline during a battle, the fierce fire that encompassed the heart in the peaks of a fight, the overwhelming justice and honor that embodied those who fought for their beliefs. The sorrow for lost comrades, the misery of longing for family, the emptiness at witnessing horrors. The bittersweet return home, the laughter in the face of dark nights, the guilt of surviving.

Harry felt it all. Felt everything that a warrior, soldier, and fighter, might feel at any moment on the spectrum of battle no matter how large or small; no matter mental, emotional, or physical. It was exhausting, even more so since it was the second time he was doing this ritual within the span of a few minutes and his body, mind, and soul were already weakened. But he embraced each emotion and refused to falter. Alice Longbottom deserved for him to suffer this if it meant that she got the honorable death that she deserved. Harry had remained committed to seeking Franks' justice and he refused to waver for Alice. Neville deserved for both his parents to have a proper Claiming.

Finally, Harry felt Death brush coldly against his neck, signaling the Claiming was complete and to stop before he lost himself. Harry tightened his hold on his magic and realized it was a fight. He hadn't realized how far he had sunk. That was probably why he hadn't noticed Alice's heart stop beating as he had with Frank. Feeling a little drugged, Harry forced his eyes open fighting to manage even that and saw Alice looking just as peaceful as Frank, eyes closed and content, a smile gracing her face.

Harry swayed a little on the bed, taking deep breaths as he dug his fingernails into the palm of his hand to force himself to remain present, to pull himself out of his magics' thrall. He wasn't sure if he'd be able to stand. Maybe two intense Claimings back to back were a bit too much. Maybe he should have done one tomorrow. Too late now, he thought sluggishly as he felt a hand on his shoulder. Harry blinked and saw Neville looking at him.

"Happy," he said. "A' peace," he slurred through a yawn.

"Thank you, Harry," Neville said, his face wet and his voice thick but still looking at Harry with pure, genuine concern. "I appreciate what you've done. Are you alright?"

Harry grinned. "Gr't." And he did feel good, cleansed somehow. The emotions he'd played host to were intense but now he felt better for it. His body and mind were still weary and foggy but it felt good. He remembered Hermione once explaining that sometimes when emotions got too much a good cry would make everything better. Harry still didn't know if that was true — he'd never really cried since he was a child — but he thought it might be equatable to this.

"Help him, Neville," Augusta said. "I'll call for Healer Fawley."

"'M fine," Harry insisted as Neville pulled him up. "Pepper Up potion is all I need."

Neville sighed but placed him back on the edge of the bed as he left to get the potion. Harry closed his eyes and swayed slightly. Blinking his eyes open, he saw Augusta peering into his face, watching him closely. The door opened and Healer Fawley followed Neville inside, a Pepper Up in Neville's hands. Harry accepted it and gave it a quick sniff. Marvolo had drilled the proper smells for common potions a few months ago — and continued to do so weekly during dueling sessions — and despite how tired he was, Harry could still identify a properly brewed Pepper Up on instinct. Knocking the potion back, Harry immediately felt more alert. He stood and offered a smile to the Healer, Neville, and Augusta.

"I appreciate you allowing me to do this for you and I hope you're able to find peace. The day after New Years' we should be able to perform the ritual." Neville and Augusta nodded, turning their focus back to Frank and Alice. "I'll leave you now. I'm here if you need me," Harry added, giving Neville's shoulder a squeeze. Neville just nodded and Harry left the room. He moved quickly to the fireplaces and luckily didn't run into anyone. The Pepper Up helped but a night of good sleep was due.

"Harry," Marvolo greeted when Harry stepped out of the Floo and into his office moments later.

"Marvolo," Harry said with a smile, already feeling at ease in the office. He yawned, the drain on his magic would soon surpass the effects of the Pepper-Up. Not desiring to overdose on potions again, and having no need to, Harry thought an early night was exactly what he needed. "I think I'm going to call it a night already. I'm sorry I won't be there in the library tonight."

Marvolo inclined his head in acceptance. "It is understandable. I'm sure you're quite drained." Harry nodded. "Do you need assistance to get to your rooms?"

Harry didn't think he did. He was tired but not enough to not make it to his rooms. He felt like he did after an intense dueling session...only emotionally. But, it would mean Marvolo escorting him and Harry felt greedy for the man's time. So he yawned again and stumbled a little. "I'd appreciate your help," he said innocently.

Whether Marvolo could tell his stumble was fake or not, Harry didn't know but the man did stand and move to wrap an arm around his waist to support him. Harry felt his face heating up at the contact and titled his head into Marvolo's shoulder to hide it. He didn't understand why he felt this way, he'd never felt like this for anyone else. But ever since Snape had emphasized how Marvolo clearly held Harry to some importance, Harry had realized how much he liked it. He liked how important he was in Marvolo's life, he liked Marvolo's attentions and kindnesses. He liked that he was the only one who got to see and experience these things. He still wasn't certain on why but the realization had been rolling around in his head almost constantly since Snape brought it up. He certainly didn't feel this way when he held other people's attention. Marvolo began to move and Harry allowed himself to be escorted, enjoying the coolness he could feel through Marvolo's robes to soothe his heated face.

"I take it that your Claiming went well."

Harry nodded. "Almost couldn't let go," he admitted. "Gets harder to not succumb to the magic the bigger the Claims."

"Don't fret, we shall figure something out to combat that, little lion."

Harry felt himself grinning at the nickname and yawned again. He took a chance and wrapped his arm around Marvolo's waist as well. Marvolo faltered in his steps but it was hardly noticeable before his stride returned to normal. Grinning at the privilege to hold Marvolo in kind, Harry decided against pushing his luck and simply enjoyed walking with his head on Marvolo's shoulder and arm around his waist, being sure to yawn and stumble occasionally so Marvolo would tighten his grip and not grow suspicious of whether Harry actually needed an escort.

"Death told me how," Harry admitted. "It'll get too dangerous soon."

"What is dangerous?"

"Losing control."

"What occurs if you lose control?"

"I die," Harry said. "Or go insane. I need even the smallest sliver of my magic to keep me tethered to the world. Unlike other wizards who can drain themselves completely and just take some time to rebuild their reserves. I lose mine and that's it. That's what my dad said when I spoke to him anyway." Harry felt the grip on his waist tighten to an almost painful degree and he grunted.

"That will not happen," Marvolo hissed, his voice bordering on Parseltongue. "And there aren't many left for you to fully Claim."

"Dumbledore and Umbridge," Harry agreed and yawned again as they reached his door. "Thanks, Marvolo." Harry opened his door and waited another moment before stepping out of Marvolo's grip.

"Sleep well, Harry," Marvolo said softly.

Harry smiled and shut the door. He tugged off his shoes and tossed his robes onto the chair. He pulled on his sleepwear and climbed into bed with a sigh. Why did he feel like this with Marvolo? It didn't make sense. Or maybe it did… maybe there was a reason he wanted to be the only important person in Marvolo's life. He wasn't normally so selfish or possessive, but Marvolo seemed to be inspiring that. Harry yawned and felt sleep inch closer as thoughts of Marvolo twisted in his mind, turning into dreams that left him hot, flushed, and nervous when he woke and desperately wanting to talk to his friends to make sense of them.

Two mornings later, Harry woke up feeling strangely content and excited and stared at his ceiling for a moment while he tried to realize why he had woken up feeling like that. It took an embarrassing three minutes for Harry to realize that it was Christmas morning. It was Christmas morning! Harry grinned and threw off his bedsheets. Hedwig hooted in displeasure at his sudden movement startling her on her perch.

"Sorry Hedwig," he apologized and moved to feed her some treats. "Merry Christmas." She hooted and accepted the treats, giving his fingers a friendly nip before she settled down to sleep again. "I'll bring you your presents, all right?" His owl gave a soft churring sound and Harry chuckled.

Harry debated getting dressed but decided that it was Christmas morning and that meant pajamas were acceptable, plus his flannel pants were comfy and a cheerful red. He did grab Marvolo's present that he had put on his desk last night after wrapping it and shoved it into his pants pocket. Nerves and doubt already resurfacing as he thought about giving it to Marvolo.

"Mimsy," he called. "Is Marvolo in the library or the dining room?" he asked when the little elf showed up.

"The Great Master is still in his room, Master Death Master."

"Oh, really? Wow. Well, thanks Mimsy. And Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas, Master Death Master," Mimsy squeaked with a deep curtsy.

Harry grabbed the Gryffindor Quidditch sweater that he found in Sirius's bedroom at Grimmauld Place a few weeks ago for extra warmth and comfort, and walked to Marvolo's door. Harry hesitated. He'd never seen Marvolo's room before; he'd never even walked up to it before. Marvolo had always escorted him to his room; Harry had never gone near his ally's room.

Gathering himself, Harry raised his hand to knock on the door but before he could it swung open revealing a slightly less put-together Marvolo holding him at wand point.

"Marvolo?" Harry asked hesitantly.

"Harry." Marvolo blinked at him, his eyes focusing, and lowered his wand. His robes still looked impeccable, not a wrinkle in sight, but his hair was slightly rumpled indicating that he probably had been asleep. "What are you doing here? What's wrong?"

"It's Christmas morning. I asked Mimsy where you were, I was surprised you weren't up yet. But, well..." Harry's reasons for interrupting sounded weak now. Why hadn't he just waited until their normal time? Why did he think waking him up early was a good idea? "Do-do you want breakfast or presents first?" Marvolo stared at him intently and Harry felt his face growing hotter the longer he stood under the scrutiny. His fingers fidgeted with the hem of the overly large sweater. "Merry Christmas," Harry offered meekly with a hopeful smile.

"Merry Christmas, Harry," Marvolo finally said and stepped out of his room, shutting the door swiftly behind him. "I believe the elves have prepared an impressive breakfast feast for us, so let us begin with that."

"How did you know to open the door? I hadn't even knocked yet."

"Wards."

That made sense, maybe he should set up some wards. He was starting to learn more about them in his Ancient Runes studies after all. It could be a fun practice.

A breakfast feast was an apt description, Harry thought when they sat down at the table. Instead of the typical breakfast food items that the elves supplied them with based on what the two usually ate on a typical morning, there were mounds of food. Plates of pancakes, waffles, bacon, and sausages; platters of scrambled and fried eggs; stacks of toast, a cauldron of oatmeal, a bowl of cut fruit...

Harry stared. "I...I don't think I can eat all this," he admitted faintly.

"Nor I," Marvolo replied, staring at the food as if it might attack him as he prepared his tea. "The elves' enthusiasm for this event must have overridden their common sense. They know that I detest excessive amounts of wasted food."

"Can it be saved or donated or something?" Harry had never been fond of wasting food either, a commonality he was sure stemmed from both of their childhoods.

"Perhaps. I shall speak with them after." Then he began plating his standard breakfast foods — two slices of toast, lightly buttered, two spoonfuls of scrambled eggs, and a bowl of cut fruit — ignoring the extra options entirely.

Feeling guilty about not at least trying the other foods, Harry loaded his plate with a bit of everything. It looked monstrous all piled onto his single plate but Harry was determined. It was Christmas morning and the elves had gone above and beyond, and he wanted to show them that he appreciated their efforts. It was all delicious, of course, but it was a chore to clean his plate.

Finally, Harry pushed it away and groaned, his plate empty. "Satisfied?" Marvolo drawled, sipping his second cup of tea. He always had two cups of tea. One for during his meal and a second after all of his food was gone, to sip and savor.

Harry grunted and rubbed his stomach. "Ready to open presents?" he asked, his eager excitement creeping back.

Marvolo offered him a slight smile as he dipped a small nod and stood. Harry pushed himself to his feet as well and fell into step beside him.

Entering the library, Harry grinned at the sight. The elves had strung up fairy lights during the night encircling their area of the library. It made the shelves of books and larger tables darker and more shadowed, but their area, their space, looked magical. Harry didn't even bother to glance at the pile of presents, because he honestly didn't care much for the gifts. But staring at their decorated tree and the row of stockings and the string of lights, Harry desperately wished he had a camera.

Marvolo moved to sit but Harry grabbed his sleeve to stop him. "Tobi," he called out. "A camera please."

"Here is being your camera Master Death Master," Tobi squeaked, handing him a camera and Harry didn't bother asking where it came from.

"Thank you, Tobi. Wait just a moment and then you and the other elves can take your stockings." Tobi squeaked, twisting his ears as his large eyes darted to the stockings.

"Why are you taking a picture, Harry?" Marvolo asked, moving to stand next to him, hovering just behind his shoulder.

"It's our first Christmas. And I need to capture it," Harry said absently, focused on working the camera. Satisfied with the picture, he put the camera aside with plans to develop it in the coming days. "Alright, Tobi, if you could gather the elves to all take their stockings."

"Yes, Master Death Master," Tobi said faintly. He disappeared with a crack and returned with the rest of the elves just as Harry and Marvolo settled into their chairs, a tea set already prepared between them thanks to the forethought of Mimsy.

It became a bit overwhelming with the thankful cries and tears of the seven house-elves. They'd each received a small game and some candy. Marvolo didn't tolerate it for very long and sent them all out of the library, even Dobby and Kreacher obeyed his order without question.

"Sorry. I should have expected that I guess," Harry admitted as he took a sip of tea. "Now, how are we going to do this?" he asked, nodding at the stack of presents. Marvolo flicked his wand and muttered some spell that had the presents separating into piles. "Why four piles?" he asked as two stacks of presents settled next to Harry and the other two settled next to Marvolo.

"The first pile is from those close to us, the second from the masses. Most of it will be from my followers and those in the Wizengamot attempting to gain favor from you. Any cursed gifts, and yes you did receive some, were disposed of when they arrived. So no need to worry about detection spells." Harry flushed, he hadn't actually planned on casting those spells and was now relieved that he didn't have to show that lack of insight in front of Marvolo. The fact that he had received cursed gifts didn't actually surprise him.

"Is there a list of the people who sent the cursed ones?"

"Mimsy has kept a record."

Harry nodded. He didn't want to do anything to those people, but it was good to know who had attempted cursing him, for future reference. "Let's get the masses over with first. Then we can take a break and then open the ones from the people we care about."

Marvolo did not argue with this and summoned his first present. It took just under an hour to open the gifts from Marvolo's followers and from all the Lords and Ladies of the Wizengamot. Harry felt a bit guilty because he had most definitely not bought gifts for everyone on the Wizengamot. He didn't feel as guilty about the Death Eaters.

"Don't fret, little lion," Marvolo assured him. "You outrank them. It is expected of them to attempt currying your favor, you have no need to lower yourself by partaking in such attempts."

Most of the gifts were sweets or books on various subjects. Harry grimaced. Sure he was reading more now but that didn't mean he overly enjoyed it. Most of the books that he got Marvolo also received. Harry wondered if the Death Eaters just didn't realize that the two of them interacted outside of meetings. Also, most of the books were on topics that he had no interest in. He stacked the doubled gifts off to the side and planned to donate them later. He received a lot of Seeker gloves and broom maintenance kits too, and some people sent him jewelry. Harry sneered a bit at a gaudy bracelet bedecked in diamonds. Why would he ever wear something like that?

"That was a lot," Harry sighed and stood up to stretch. The pile of opened gifts at his feet.

"Now you realize why it is in the best interest of the economy that I don't also celebrate my birthday."

Harry laughed and nodded. He looked over Marvolo's pile of ancient books and jeweled antiques and Dark artifacts. Harry had received a few Dark artifacts as well but just gave them to Marvolo without examining them much further.

"Break and then the gifts we care about?" he suggested.

Marvolo nodded and stood as well. "I shall return momentarily," he said before swiftly leaving the library.

Confused, Harry shrugged it off and called for Dobby and Tobi to bring all of his opened gifts to an empty room to properly sort through later. He also asked for Vossy and Sora to do the same with Marvolo's gifts. Then he called for Mimsy to refill their tea supply. She brought biscuits as well but Harry was still too full from breakfast. The fairy lights had gone out now and the daylight pouring in through the library windows brightened the room, the fire was still going strong, crackling and casting a heat that might have been stifling if Harry were wearing his robes. As it was, he did take off Sirius' old sweater but didn't bother putting out the fire.

Curling into his chair, Harry levitated his stack of personal presents closer and browsed through the names with idle curiosity while he waited and made a game of trying to guess what was in the wrappings. His nerves were building at the thought of exchanging presents with Marvolo, as well as doubt over the quality of his own gift. Would Marvolo appreciate it? Would it be good enough? Harry took a breath and refocused on the presents. He spotted Mrs. Weasleys' lumpy package and grinned at the thought of another Weasley sweater. Marvolo returned, Nagini slithering alongside him, with a basket and a neatly wrapped package in hand.

"Hatchling," Nagini hissed, moving to curl up in front of the fireplace.

"Merry Christmas, Nagini. You have a stocking full of treats if you wish for them now."

Nagini raised her head to peer at the stocking with the letter N on it and opened her mouth, flicking her tongue and scenting the air around it. "You may feed me one of the mice. The rest I shall eat later."

Harry chuckled at her command and did indeed reach his hand into the stocking, pulling out a petrified mouse which Nagini quickly snapped out of his hand. Grinning, he turned to Marvolo who was watching him with a soft look on his face. Harry felt his face heating up at just the sight, the honor and privilege at being given the chance to see that look. He thought it adorable how deeply Marvolo cared for his familiar.

"Ready for round two?" Harry asked.

Marvolo stared at him for a moment longer but did nod, returning to his seat and placing the items he held on the floor next to his chair. They were on the side that Harry wasn't, so he couldn't see what was in the basket. Curling back into his chair, Harry pulled the first present closer. His stack was larger than Marvolo's but Marvolo didn't seem to care as he finished his pile and watched Harry open the rest of his.

Harry did receive a Weasley sweater, this one a dark green with a golden snake, and a tin of her fudge. Despite being full, Harry helped himself to a piece and offered the tin to Marvolo who also took a piece with very minimal coaxing. Most of his guards had gotten him clothing and dueling equipment, his Slytherins gave him books that looked far more interesting and applicable to himself than the prestigious nonsense he had already received that morning, and his friends had given him a range of products ranging from more Weasley pranks supplies, Quidditch trading cards, a bottlecap necklace and dreamcatcher made of what looked like unicorn hairs, and a Hindi-English translation dictionary. Harry gave Marvolo anecdotes for some of the gifts, such as Mrs. Weasley's and Luna's presents, to fill the silence of Marvolo simply watching him.

Finally, all the presents were opened except for the ones to each other. Harry swallowed and pulled out the small gift he had shoved into his pajama pants pocket earlier that morning. "Um...do you want to just swap and then open at the same time?"

"That seems acceptable," Marvolo said smoothly and handed Harry the basket and rectangularly wrapped present. Harry handed Marvolo his gift, a hand-sized square box wrapped in green silk instead of paper.

Harry planned on waiting to open his gifts in order to watch Marvolo open his but the movement of the basket disturbed what was inside and the hissing noise called his attention. Harry gasped seeing a young snake curled up on blankets placed in the basket.

"Hello, beautiful," Harry hissed softly as the snake raised its head. It was slender and probably only three feet long once it uncoiled itself. It was very obviously a magical breed of snake, the golden scales and blue eyes made that evident.

"Are you to be my Master?" the snake hissed.

"If you wish me to be," Harry answered, holding his hands out. The snake's tongue flickered out, tasting his fingers before the snake raised itself higher.

"Yes, you smell nice. You will do."

Harry laughed. "I'm glad you approve. What is your name?"

The snake began crawling up Harry's hand, wrapping itself around his forearm. "Raaja," the snake replied.

"Raaja in Hindi means King," Marvolo said, pulling Harry's attention from the golden snake. Marvolo watched Harry with a cautious gaze. His own gift lay unopened in his lap. "I understand you have Hedwig as your familiar, but I thought you might appreciate another, a snake to converse with. You seem to enjoy speaking with Nagini, and Raaja would be a confidant, always remaining at your side. He is an Indian breed as well, a connection to your ancestry."

Harry smiled at Marvolo, he'd never expected to witness Marvolo rambling but that was the closest Harry could describe what Marvolo was currently doing. "Thank you. I love him and I appreciate the efforts you went to get him for me."

Marvolo swallowed and his back stiff. "Well yes, you are my ally. It is only logical to purchase you a gift to properly convey my appreciation of your assistance." Marvolo wasn't looking at him but Harry nodded nonetheless, looking down at Raaja as the small snake settled contentedly around his arm. "He is a breed of python and should grow to at least eight or ten feet. Not quite as large as Nagini but impressive nonetheless."

"Thank you, Marvolo," Harry repeated. "What else could you have gotten me?" he said with a light laugh to cover his own guilt over only getting Marvolo one gift. Harry pulled the wrapped box closer and tore the edges. It was a book. Harry tried not to frown at the sight, because Marvolo had done tremendously well buying him a snake, a personal friend and confidant that would be there for him just like Hedwig, and he was sure any book that Marvolo got him would be very nice.

The book was bound in black leather, the spine was unbent and stiff. Harry frowned a bit when he cracked it open and saw the pages were blank. He glanced up at Marvolo, who looked so stiff he could have been petrified. "I recall you mentioning that your previous Necromancer ancestors wrote their excursions in journals and that it was expected that you would do the same. You might already have a journal for this purpose, if so I ask you to overlook this duplicate gift, and perhaps you could find another use for it? The pages are charmed to never run out."

Harry stared at Marvolo in surprise. "No, no, thank you. I haven't gotten my Necromancer journal yet. It kept slipping my mind. Thank you, Marvolo, truly. This means a lot that you would do this, both the journal and Raaja."

Now Harry was certain that his gift was unworthy. Marvolo had obviously put a lot of thought into Harry's gifts — not that Harry hadn't put a lot of thought as well — but it was hard to purchase a gift for someone so absolutely perfect as Marvolo. Harry ran his fingers over the leather cover of the journal and swallowed against the thickness in his throat.

"You can open your gift now if you want." Harry's face was already starting to burn in shame at the inadequacy of his present.

Hearing the soft sounds of Marvolo unwrapping the green silk, Harry forced himself to watch. He was a Gryffindor, he would not hide his head in shame. The silk fell away to reveal a flat, black, velvet box. Marvolo flipped open the lid and stared at the pendant nestled inside. Harry had thought for long hours on what to get Marvolo and once he had decided, he'd spent even more hours determining a design. A silver snake with emerald eyes wrapped tightly around a golden lion with rubies for eyes, no larger than the palm of his hand. The chain was made of alternating silver and gold chains.

"A symbol of our alliance," Harry began to explain, feeling an intense need to try and justify the mediocre gift. "I know I've said it's temporary but I'd really like for it to be more permanent. If you want it to be of course." The words were tripping over his tongue now and he couldn't stop them. "And I engraved some protection runes into it. I know they aren't overly strong yet, I'm still in the beginning stages of learning Runes, but I thought — as we started to learn the Hindu runes together and I learned my Necromancer ones — I could continue to add them into the pendant. And, I mean, I plan to be there if you're ever in danger and use my Inheritance to save you if necessary but just in case I'm not there or I can't reach you, I thought this would be another layer of defense. Not that you need another layer, I know you're perfectly capable of defending yourself, but I mean you gave me that portkey necklace and it's what originally gave me the idea. And—"

Harry cut off when Marvolo grabbed his arm. The cool hand soothing against his flushed skin. His face burned and his tongue felt thick. Marvolo held the pendant in one hand and gazed at Harry with those crimson eyes glittering and shining in the firelight and the afternoon sun seeping through the windows. "Thank you, Harry," Marvolo said, voice deeper than it normally was. Or maybe it was just because his head felt heavy. Harry swallowed. "I shall treasure your gift and wear it always."

Marvolo withdrew his hand to drape the chain around his neck, the pendant resting low on his chest. Harry's pulse raced when Marvolo caught his eye again and he found himself bobbing his head senselessly, licking his dry lips, and running his hands over his pajama pants as his stomach twisted in knots. "Um...I should go introduce Raaja to Hedwig and start writing in my journal. A lot of months to write about, you know," Harry said, pushing to his feet.

"Yes of course. I shall have Tobi deliver your gifts to your room." Marvolo rose to his feet as well, but far more gracefully. Harry moved to pass him but Marvolo grabbed his arm, the smell of spices and parchment permeated his senses, and Harry's eyelids fluttered briefly. The hold was gentle but Harry felt rooted to the spot at the soft touch regardless. "And I do appreciate you wishing this alliance to be permanent. I believe we can do great things together."

Harry grinned, warm at the soft acknowledgment from Marvolo that their partnership would continue, his free hand — the one with Raaja wrapped around the arm — moved to his hair on impulse. "I'll see you for dinner tonight. Merry Christmas, again, Marvolo."