The Contract
Chapter 112
Harry lurched out of the Floo Network, giving a great big 'Oof' as he somehow managed to remain upright. He didn't think he'd ever becoming accustomed to Floo travel. Sure, he could do it, but he was far from graceful. Coughing a little, grimacing, he had also managed to inhale some ash, which was irritating his throat as well as eyes. Well, for the most part anyway, it might have had something to do with the excitement that had him falling out of the fireplace like a clumsy Muggle-born first year.
A chuckle alerted Harry to someone being in the room with him, "Very smooth dismount," Corvus told him, eyes gleaming with happiness and merriment. Opening his arms and Harry all but ambushed him, squeezing his middle tightly in greeting. Honestly, you'd think it was months since they saw each other last, not just weeks. "Good morning, Harry," returning the hug with the same tightness. "How are your classes going?" he hadn't asked during the winter holidays. Mostly because his weakest subjects had been seen to, Severus was helping him. That and it was Yule, it was a holiday, a time of peace and celebration.
Speaking of holiday, Sirius and Rodolphus' wedding just so happened to be picked on a day of solstice. The longest day, and the shortest night. June 21st, it wasn't by any means the most powerful day to pagans but a day of celebration nonetheless. It was now a double celebration, the solstice and the wedding celebration.
"Severus thinks I won't need remedial potions after the term ends," Harry said beaming in delight, as he drew back after an extended hug. Unlike many of his classmates at Hogwarts, he'd never take family for granted. No child should really, but unfortunately, it wasn't always the case.
"Is that so?" Corvus questioned, pleasantly surprised, he had managed to teach Harry the right technique that works for him in a year? Then again, Severus wasn't the youngest Potions Master in the world for nothing. That and he didn't have as much on his plate, he taught the upper years Potions, his assistant taught the younger years, giving him a much-needed break. Given the potions that Severus had brought out – all medical in nature – it was definitely time well spent, and needed. Severus hadn't brought anything much out since his Mastery, what fourteen, fifteen years ago. He'd made potions better, but he hadn't truly had the time to create a masterpiece.
He may have to thank Severus for his dedication to Harry, regardless of the threats he'd made to him in the past. Well, threat wasn't the correct word, it had been a promise, a vow. He would have killed Severus if he had not ceased his childish bullying. No, hadn't stopped the childish bullying that Dumbledore had perpetrated on a young abused boy, a boy he'd ensured was abused. Even now years later it still turned his stomach and made him seethe for vengeance after it had been had.
Dumbledore was well and truly gone, his soul sucked out, to never return. Eternal resurrection, they believe in, wouldn't happen if your soul was sucked out by a Dementor.
"Yes, when he figured out how I learn things, he made it make a whole lot of sense," Harry said still enthusiastic. He knew better than to discuss potions or Severus with Sirius. The faces he made the entire time were maddening hilarious. "Severus even taught me to brew potions from instinct, that with enough experience I should trust myself and do what I believe should be done despite the recipe. Do you know instinctively brewing is part knowledge part magic itself?"
"That does sound fascinating," Corvus agreed fully, he very rarely brewed, he instead had Severus brewing everything he needed. If Severus couldn't – which rarely happened – he got someone else to brew them. Which had happened a few times lately, due to the fact he was trying to create all the potion required for the students who would all be doing the family tree ritual. "Are there any classes you feel you could do better in?" best to ask before O.W.L year in his opinion. Sitting down on one of the few available pieces of furniture, the Manor was undergoing a vast change as they prepared for the wedding.
"All of them?" Harry said wryly, grinning sheepishly. "I'm good, my magical theory class can get…a little loud." Which was true enough.
"Do you feel overwhelmed in the class?" Corvus asked, Harry had grown significantly more confident in life in the past four years. At least with them, it's one of the reasons he'd sent Harry to Hogwarts. To become more independent and confident in himself.
"Sometimes," Harry said, barely refraining from shrugging his shoulders. "Especially when it's regarding something they feel strongly about. Last week fourth through seventh years did one, a debate on magic, the old dark versus light." Rolling his eyes, it was just ridiculous. "I could barely get a word in edgewise, and I honestly think if the professors hadn't been there…things would have escalated to violence."
"Yes, it probably would have, that old belief I…find quite troublesome and tiresome." Corvus fully agreed, giving Harry a disapproving look when he crossed his legs. "Fortunately, due to their education it won't be a prevalent problem for long." The entire dark and light debate was going to be binned once and for all. There were not going to have dark verses light sides anymore. No more battles, wars or killing. "And if you're wondering the Wizengamot can get like that sometimes, but not quite so…rowdy, we are much too composed for that normally." He hadn't been there to see how the students were acting, but he used to be one so it was easily imagined.
"Are the horses being escorted round the front yet?" Harry asked, standing up, his legs becoming uncomfortable. He trotted over to the window, opening it, he stared outside. Luckily it was a beautiful day, no sign of rain to be had. It was the normal time of year for it to rain down showers upon everyone.
"Not quite yet," Corvus followed, but the rights were being set out, and the coaches being cleaned up. They hadn't been used since he had married his wife. It was a thirty-minute walk – ten if using the coaches – to the building used solely for celebrations and ceremonies. He had married his wife there, and was very happy Sirius and Rodolphus chose to do so as well. It was sacred, a very sacred place only family – unless spelled otherwise – could get into, set with the very same wards as the cemetery plot and mausoleum. "But soon, the guests will begin arriving and be escorted there from the back garden, their gifts left in the vestibule."
Harry peered further out the window, excitement thrumming through him. This summer was going to be the best one yet. Turning to face Corvus, he noticed a few more strands of white in his grey hair, did grey hair ever actually go white completely or did it stay salt and pepper-ish? "Where is Sirius?" he asked, belatedly realizing he was supposed to be with his godfather today. Who was probably freaking out, that's what people did when it was their wedding right? everyone said so.
"He's in his suite," Corvus informed him, "The boys are in the blue wing," which means they wouldn't accidentally see each other. Some superstitions remained despite how many years passed. They believe it was indeed bad luck to catch a glimpse of your soon-to-be spouse on the day of the Handfasting, and thus it continued even if one didn't believe in bad luck or superstitious nonsense. "Do you want me to take your gift and put it with the others?" he knew Harry had one, he'd asked for his advice, which was only natural, Harry had never attended a Handfasting before, had no idea what was important or if there was something he had to get specifically due to his spot on the Handfasting. In fact, Harry sometimes referred to it as a wedding, which wasn't technically accurate.
"Oh, yes, please," Harry said quickly rummaging around in his inner cloak pocket until he touched smooth paper. He withdrew up and returned it to its normal size, nodding happily. "Headmaster Slytherin will be here, but said to send you apologises because he won't be there early." Family and very close friends are supposed to be there all day, not just for the ceremony and reception held afterwards. Tom was probably the closest thing Corvus had at a best friend.
"Ah, thank you for letting me know," Corvus nodded, at least he'd have Dorea to keep him company. He still barely spoke to Orion despite the information that had come to light. His son had come to him with concerns, about Orion's death, his life, and everything in between. The second he heard that Orion had been wearing a fake Lordship ring that Walburga's magic had been immersed in giving it the feel of the real deal? He had asked for an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the wizard.
What they had unearthed made part of Corvus feel for Orion, being controlled by your own wife for the duration of their marriage? It was all sorts of wrong, not to forget when Orion's body began to fight off the effects – having been receiving it long enough to fight it – she dozed him with more that ultimately led to his death months later as his body just continued to shut down. Systematic organ failure.
What was worse, there was no medical potions in his system, there had been no attempt by a healer to aid Orion Black at all. Walburga had essentially kept her husband a prisoner then killed him when he couldn't be controlled. She'd killed her husband and the Lord of the Black Estate. Then after that her son Regulus had died then Sirius Black left the family disowned. Walburga had single handed destroyed the Black family. Destroyed her own family. Even her own father would be rolling in his grave, yeah, he'd wanted the Black Lordship, thought he'd do better and look where it got them.
He had shared the information with Orion and Sirius in private, two weeks after Rodolphus came to him. Private Investigators didn't take long to dig up everything they needed. The Black mausoleum was easily gotten into – most of the population had at least a little Black blood – not that it was required Harry had given permission, and then with that, the goblins had given a portkey. Orion's body wasn't disinterred, a spell from above their crypt was good enough. Not everyone chooses to be buried, but they should be glad that Orion did choose as such.
Corvus couldn't say he was surprised that Sirius had in turn told Rodolphus everything. It was going to be a good sign of a healthy marriage if they share everything. Each day there was some way he was reassured that Rodolphus was going to be happy with Sirius. He'd had some niggling tiny doubts, he'd kept them quiet, and let Rodolphus choose this time. He'd feel guilty for Bellatrix until his dying breath. The doubts hadn't been enough to concern him the slightest.
Harry bounded up the stairs, musing on the fact he wouldn't have been able to do that a few years ago. Grinning happily, he made for Sirius' suite, he probably wouldn't see Rabastan until later which disappointed him. Once he was there, he knocked loudly, causing a thumping noise from within the room causing Harry to giggle behind his hand.
"Come in," Sirius called out, and Harry opened the door and peered inside to see Sirius staring at his suit as if expecting it to be set on fire any given moment. If he kept staring at it like that it might actually do just that, magic was a hell of a thing after all.
"Hi!" He chirped, he'd been annoying Blaise, Draco, Daphne, Astoria, Vincent and Greg for advice for weeks now. He wanted to do it right, it was important to him, he didn't want to do anything wrong. Plus, should he ever be picked again, he wanted to make sure he wasn't going to make an ass of himself. Sirius was one thing, he didn't care much for tradition, but Harry did. Other people most certainly did. Tradition was important, their history, everything. "How are you feeling?"
"Harry!" Sirius said, already rushing over and bringing his godson into a bearhug. Closing his eyes, he just held him close, it felt like forever since he got to hold him. Harry hadn't been one for allowing him to touch him when they met, now he returned that affection and Sirius couldn't be prouder of himself that he'd accomplished this. Sure, with help, but he'd done it. "Merlin, I missed you, Kiddo."
"Did you even get a chance to miss me?" Harry laughed, "You've designed thirteen things by my calculations, our of the fifteen things since I went back to school after Yule."
Sirius flushed, "I always miss you," he told Harry seriously, giving him a squeeze before he stepped back to inspect him. It was still weird to see the blue and bronze unform on Harry, despite knowing he was a Ravenclaw. "Corvus put your suit over there, somewhere," pointing towards the side of the room.
"I'm…I've got something I want to…you know, give you," Harry said twitching nervously.
"You want me to open your gift before we leave?" Sirius deduced, smiling softly, hell, Harry could give him a sock and he couldn't care. He'd left behind a great deal of money when he ran away from home. With money came expectations, and he didn't want that. Not as a teenager anyway.
"It's not really your gift…I left that downstairs," Harry told him, "But I got you something else, I don't really know if it's done here…" scratching his neck in a very rare show of nerves. "In weddings they are given gifts…something old, something blue and something new."
Sirius stared incredulously at his godson, "It's for brides!" he rasped out, "The bride!" eyes wide with astonishment. Lily and James had elected for a wedding, they'd gone to the register office, still on the run from Death Eaters, they couldn't exactly hire a church, not right away, and certainly not without confounding the Muggles. Lily wouldn't hear of it, honestly, he didn't think she did anything selfish a day in her life.
"Technically that's what you are," Harry pressed out, biting his tongue to stop himself laughing. "You should have paid a 'bride price' he pointed out." He was lucky though; he was considered a 'carrier' because he could have children so technically it's 'carrier price' and 'carrier' not Bride.
Sirius' jaw dropped, "You cheeky little…sod!"
"Do you want to see it first?" Harry asked, staring earnestly up at his godfather.
Sirius sputtered for a few seconds, before raising his arms before they fell back down in exasperation. "Oh, go ahead then," honestly, he couldn't stay angry at his godson for even a moment. He had a twisted sense of humour for sure, but there you go.
Harry smiled, before handing over a blue velvet box, "I had it special made for you," he confided, the box was just slightly bigger than his hand.
Sirius' eyebrows rose in surprise, jewellery huh, it's a good job they were family – and they were family both in name and blood nobody would ever convince him otherwise – lest someone gets the wrong impression. Jewellery was seen as intimate; you really shouldn't give it someone unless you're related. Which nearly everyone was related to each other, so it was grudgingly accepted.
Opening the latch, he let it sweep up, "Oh, wow," Sirius said staring at the design, mithril and black diamond, as well as blue diamond and red diamonds interwoven in pieces. It was a disc shape, it had the Black, Potter and Lestrange coat of arms in three separate sections. Sirius swallowed thickly seeing the Potter family crest there.
"Grandma Dorea agreed, she says you've always been part of the family, you're as much a Potter as you are a Black." Harry said softly, and it went without saying he'd gotten Corvus' agreement otherwise the jeweller would have refused to do it. inhaling and exhaling softly, he added, "I love you, and you do have family, you have all of us."
Sirius choked on his emotions, before grabbing Harry again, and holding him tightly. Not something he would have wanted to do a year or so ago, he'd been so very frail. James had always made it clear he was welcome at Potter manor, to Godric's Hollow…the fact was, they'd been best friends, always acted like best friend. Helped him like you helped family when it was needed, him and Lupin both actually.
Yet he'd never been made to feel truly like family, James wasn't close to his parents the way Rodolphus was with his father. This family, this family he'd becoming a part of, and would be Handfasted into, was a dream come true.
"I love you too, Kiddo." Sirius choked out, his tears running down his face and dropping into Harry's well-kept hair. This was supposed to be a happy day, for Merlin's sake, yet here he was sobbing like a little girl. Not to mention he had butterflies in his stomach! He hadn't had that happen since he first began dating Rodolphus and before then it was his sorting. "Maybe I am a bride," he said in self-decrepitation, snorting a little, untidily.
Harry burst out laughing as he withdrew, smiling happily, "I'm sorry…you know…about before…how I was with you in the beginning." he'd felt guilty for the longest time but had never discussed it. He had been pretty damn petty.
Sirius cupped Harry's face, each hand holding onto each side, "No, you did the right thing, believe me, Kiddo, you did. If I had found out that you were living with the Lestranges to begin with? I would have done everything I could to gain custody of you. I didn't understand, I was being selfish. I wanted you, because you were my godson and I love you. I wasn't thinking of your needs or want. but I do understand now. I would have done the same thing." He reassured Harry. He hadn't been in a good way even in St. Mungo's, no, he'd only started recovering when he went to Africa with Harry and the others.
Harry stares at his godfather's earnest gaze, before relaxing a small smile spreading across his face, "Nervous?" he asked. Changing the subject entirely, not that Sirius looked like he had anything more to say on the matter.
"Yes, a little," Sirius confessed, he was a bundle of bloody nerves was what he was. "What's old about this?" it was his turn to change the subject, gesturing towards the gift he'd just been given.
Harry glanced at it, "The red diamonds, it came from the pendant my dad, James liked to wear," he had died with it on as a matter of fact. It had, had the Potter coat of arms on it, he'd been a very proud Potter there was no denying that. He hadn't worn the Lordship or Heirship ring though; he didn't seem to care about that aspect of life. Had no interest in politics and for some reason, everyone assumed if you wore it you had an interest in politics and you'd join the wizengamot. Dorea said she wasn't sure when it started amongst the youngsters, but it hadn't worried her until her son vehemently opposed wearing the heirship ring, they had created for him on his seventeenth birthday. His father Charlus had died wearing the Lordship ring. When that happens, it' not removed – they're dangerous to handle if you're not blood - instead Charlus was buried with it, and a new one was smelted. "The blue diamonds from mum's engagement ring."
Red was the only colour beside Black in the Potter coat of arms. James pendant alone could have probably fed an entire family for a decade. Red diamonds were the rarest diamonds you could find, blue closest to second. It was obscene the wealth he had, but he was so very grateful the Dursley's hadn't known or able to use it. For if they had been? There would have been nothing left of his estate. Not a damn thing, the Dursley's would have made sure of that.
Sirius' gaze became tortured, he missed James so much, oh, he missed how simple life used to be. That was saying something because his 'simple' life used to be during a goddamned war, well, hovering around a war really. "I…James never took that thing off…" he confessed, vividly recalling the pendant in question.
"The Ministry gave Gringotts everything," Harry explained, their personal effects were handed over to the goblins to be put aside until the heir – him – came of age. It's not as if a one-year-old had any use of his parents' belongings after all. "Grandma Dorea told me about James, and, anyway, I hope you like it."
"I do," Sirius said in awe, swallowing thickly, he'd lost everything really when he was put in Azkaban. He had a few things left of two decades of life once he got out. Other than that, nothing, and Harry had handed him something infinitely more precious. Something that had belonged to both Lily and James, and well, he only needed to look down to know he was family. A tangible thing that there was no mistaken, he was family. It was all he'd ever wanted.
Harry glanced to the side, hearing the clippty-clop of the horses, the doors were wide open, allowing the air in, and sound too. "We best get ready," he realized, it was nearing time for them to head out to the temple.
"Yeah, we should," Sirius agreed, stomach twisting again, he was so nervous. He'd been really calm on the lead up to today. Yet now? Now he felt as though something was going to crawl out of his stomach.
"I'm looking forward to seeing it," Harry admitted, hopping on his right leg, "It's going to be so much fun!" he hadn't attended a Handfasting before, or even a Muggle wedding for that matter. "Although, why they call it Handfasting when it's a bonding…confuses me."
Sirius chuffed, "That I can answer, the ribbon is imbued with powerful magic by the Officiant, technically it can be called both a Handfasting and a Bonding since you do both. The ribbons are handfasted around your hands and wrists. All of them having different meanings, and once you say the last of your vows the ribbon not only disappears but the magic itself imbues within you."
"Oh," Harry said blinking, he hadn't been told that bit. Then again, everyone magical already knew this, and it might have been just such an obvious thing that it hadn't clicked, hadn't felt the need to reveal that to him.
"I'm surprised you haven't read a book on Handfasting or bonding," Sirius conceded, turning Harry around and prodding him in the direction of his bathroom where Harry's own formal wear was waiting.
"The two copies that are in Hogwarts have been checked out," Harry shrugged.
"Why didn't you write to me, or Rabastan or even Corvus?" Sirius asked, perplexed. They would all fall over themselves to do as Harry asked. If it were any other situation, it would have been funny but if anyone deserved catering to it was Harry for sure. "Or better yet buy one? You could have had one within a day with Owl order."
Harry paused for a few moments before confessing, "I have other books to read, that sound much more exciting…plus, I did ask Draco and the rest of my friends about it." he told him before mulishly replying, "Go figure they'd forget the most obvious thing of all."
Sirius grinned, "It happens, before too long you'll be doing it too." Prodding him further into the bathroom, he closed the door and wandered of to his own Handfasting suit. Putting the pendant from Harry on the bed, feeling very, very emotional. He'd always have a part of his chosen family with him. Have a part of Lily and James with him too.
Black suit, red neck tie, silver socks and a green tie to tie his hair up. Red, Silver, white and green were important colours when handfasting. Handfasting itself was considered the great god and goddess Beltane, The Great Wedding, Beltane was also a popular time for pagan Handfasting but they weren't having a Beltane wedding…but Beltane was still used to worship at all Handfasting's.
Unhooking the pendant, Sirius wrapped it around his neck, feeling goosebumps crawl down his skin. "I know you're probably up there cursing, James, that I'm marrying a Slytherin…but you surely can't forget that Dorea and Charlus were Slytherin and Gryffindor respectively. We make good couples; I hope you're happy…and maybe you would have been if we had been given a chance to grow up." He spoke to James quietly, "I'll look after Harry, I promise, he'll want for nothing." Hoping that James spirit was there, watching over them all.
After that Sirius got dressed, nerves still present but not at all overwhelming.
He was getting married, something he'd never envisioned especially after being incarcerated. He had his godson in his life, Pettigrew was dead, and his best friends avenged. He had a wizard he loved so much, and honestly? Finally had a father figure in his life. Go figure he'd end up with Orion in his life too. He was still struggling emotionally finding out his father had been nothing but a puppet being controlled by Walburga since he was seventeen-years-old to her nineteen-year-old. Worse Orion didn't even know it, that particular brand? It made Orion entirely susceptible to her suggestions, he thought they were his ideas, but he remained the same in every other way.
Shaking off his depressing throughs, no, this was a good day. He could think on the shit that would depress the fuck out of even someone on a cheering draught. He refused to let the past cloud his day, he'd been at a few parties now, dealing with the public…but bloody hell, this was going to have the focus entirely on him and Rodolphus. It's funny, it's something he would have relished when he was a teen, back at his days at Hogwarts.
"They're going to need to get new measurements when I get clothes again, they're a little on the tight side." Harry said, as he opened the door, eyes widening when he saw Sirius, "Whoa! Is that your old Gryffindor tie? Did you just change the gold to silver?" silver was the colour more appropriate than gold for a Handfasting.
"Nothing of my old school things survived," Sirius said amused, Harry was acting as though he'd never seen him in anything decent before.
"Rodolphus is going to fall all over himself when he sees you," Harry told him, trying to imagine him and Rabastan doing the same thing. Just a few more years, then he would be married, that's if it was something they both wanted. He did, Rabastan indicated he did…and nine times out of ten people did bond with their Betrothal partner.
Sirius smiled, indulging Harry, when he looked in the mirror half the time, he still saw the way he looked when he got out of Azkaban. It was all a mental thing, that he was trying to get over, with the help of his therapist – again – but he'd get there. Kissing Harry's forehead, "So do you," squeezing Harry's shoulder, "Ready to go?"
Harry nodded enthusiastically, "Lets go!" he chirped, the fourteen-year-old nearly fifteen-year-old excitedly dragged Sirius along, he was probably the only one his age going to be there. That's what happens when you have a wedding before Hogwarts is let out for the summer.
The two of them met Corvus' outside the door, who smiled at them, "You both look stunning," he told them, they were Sirius' wedding suit/robes of course he was going to look extra well dressed. He wasn't dressed casually; he was dressed very formally. Both of them were dressed formally. "Everyone has gone along to the temple." By everyone he meant all their guests.
Harry smothered his amusement, "Is Bill still invited?"
Corvus' lips twitched, "Of course, as are Charlie and the twins," if he held any distaste for the Weasley's he definitely didn't show it. Sirius was close to the twins, wrote to them often, they inspired his creative side, and they wanted to work with him after they graduate. The only stipulation Sirius had – mostly thinking of Arthur here – was that the boys graduate with N.E.W.T's but that they could work part time during the summer and any creations they made, they'd be paid for.
"Oh, good," Harry said he couldn't wait.
Corvus' lips danced madly, as he valiantly fought to refrain from showing his merriment. If he didn't know any better, he would have thought Harry had a death wish. Honestly, he got away with a great deal more than any other. Even he dared not get in between Bill and Tom who were at odds at the moment. How Harry knew this he did not know…and wasn't sure he wanted to.
"Master Corvus everything is ready," came the squeaky voice of the numerous House-elves working today to make sure everything ran smoothly.
"Very well done," he told the House-elf, turning to the front doors, which were open, "At least the good weather has held up," they really hadn't chosen the best time of year to have a wedding, if they'd waited another month or so, the weather would have been scorching. Oh, he knew that wasn't true, the weather could go through four seasons. If you went through two you were considered very lucky indeed.
With that Sirius and Harry were down the stairs and situated in the carriage which was being pulled by their horses. Nobody used Thestral's for Handfasting's, they were an omen of death after all. although, there was one family in France that did, Harry recalled Rodolphus saying, Thestral's were their coat of arms, and each member was escorted to their betrothed in one.
And then they were off, the horses cantering through the estate, Harry avidly watched everything. Sirius was content just to watch him, it wasn't often they got to see him acting like a child. It helped take his mind off the Handfasting, he was so nervous that it was unbelievable.
It was a long canter; it took fifteen minutes for the horses to get to the temple. Which was situated in the middle of the forest. The marble temple was where the Lestranges had married their wives or husbands for hundreds of years. The marble temple was inundated with depictions of the Pagan God Beltane. The marble was white, looked brand new and well looked after, the pillars were beautifully done.
Harry gasped just seeing it, he had investigated the estate, of course he has. He had even walked around it, been on the horses and other animals. Using the coach to let the animals get a decent run, but he hadn't seen everything. "It's beautiful," he murmured, his face pressed against the window awed. He wished he'd seen this earlier; he'd found out it existed, but hadn't seen it.
There was a map of the entire grounds painted in the manor. He recalled seeing the temple – which was tiny on the map – nearly hidden by the trees, with two paths leading to and from the structure. The actual temple? Was extremely large, reminded Harry of the pictures of the pantheons he'd seen built for worshiping their gods, particularly the Greek gods.
Lord Aurelius' Slytherin stood draped in gorgeous green robes, he was standing in as the officiant. After all, if it wasn't for him, and Harry, Rodolphus and Sirius would still be in Azkaban (with Sirius getting out first of course, and actually being genuinely innocent). Rodolphus wanted his Lord to have a special part in the Handfasting and thus he had got his officiant certificate. So that any Handfasting, bonding, weddings he performed would be very legal indeed.
He stood on top of the alter on the dais in the middle of the temple, everyone who had been invited were all spread out seated and waiting for the couple. Aurelius' attention was primarily focused on a particular gaggle of red headed men. One, really, Bill and he had…a falling out of sorts and he wasn't sure how to make it better. He would rather die than ask another soul how to fix it, he could not have it become a 'weakness' he refused. It was a weakness, but there was a difference between him knowing and the entire world figuring it out.
He had to be careful, at least until he was one hundred percent that all his enemies were gone. There were people out there whom knew he truly was. There was no doubt about it, Dumbledore would have told someone at the very least.
It didn't help that he couldn't find Alastor Moody, whom had been a close friend to Dumbledore and possibly a confidant. The other two cohorts closer to his age, they were not a threat anymore. He wished he could have gotten a list of the people who knew his true identity before Dumbledore had been kissed/had his heart attack.
Then again, was he just using it as an excuse to stall? To not have something he wanted? He very much doubted it, anything he wanted he always took. From material items to bedding someone although he'd never had to fight so hard for someone's attention.
Narrowing his eyes, he observed Bill walking to Paul Patil, cousin of the twins that were in his school right now. Merlin only knows why he was invited; this was primary a neutral/dark celebration whether Sirius Black knew it or not. Then again, the cousin branch was neutral. It was only the twin Patil's parents that had gone 'light' mostly due to the fact they'd attended Hogwarts with Dumbledore at the helm and didn't know how to think for themselves. Paul and his siblings had attended Ilvermorny.
His eyes narrowed further until they were just slits, displeasure thrumming through him when Paul dared to put his grubby disgusting fingers on Bill's shoulder. He was not jealous, no, he was merely irritated that Bill was allowing it. Bill wasn't touchy feely with strangers, this he knew. Despite growing up with Molly No-Last-Name always being in his personal space with hugs, his father merely giving him pats and hugs on special occasions…when he left for his job, he had grown used to and loved having his personal space.
And his own identity, it had been one screwed up family, Tom came to realize. Everything had to be the way Molly No-Last-Name had wanted it. Including short shorn hair, you had to spend the money you had the way she liked it. if anyone gave the family any funds, it disappeared, to this day Bill said he hadn't figured out just what she'd done with the money or why. To think they portrayed themselves as the near perfect family for years successfully? It was a wonder none of them had snapped and gone dark.
The sound of music beginning to play snapped Tom out of his thoughts, straightening up impeccably.
It showed the high regard that the Lestrange family had for Harry, to them, he was already family, and Tom didn't think anything would break that closeness. Not even if Rabastan and Harry ultimately chose not to marry.
Sirius and Rodolphus and their 'best men' walked together, paganism was about equality, Handfasting was about having those they cared about there to share their day with. It wasn't about material items, being the centre of attention – although it was accepted despite Sirius and Rodolphus' distain – they wanted it to be a quiet joyous occasion. Not too many people, the forty-nine people that had turned out for their special day was apparently a 'small occasion' as it were.
Rabastan and Harry had cords and ribbons in their hands, for their brothers (and brother-in-law's) handfasting ceremony.
Rodolphus was dressed in black, with a subtle silver shirt, that looked white upon first glance, with a black cloak with a green trim. They had upon their cloaks, their family crests. Sirius might not be able to be Lord of the estate, but he was still a Black and he had the Black coat of arms on it. Soon it would be replaced with the Lestrange coat of arms. Sirius seemed very happy to abandon the Black name entirely, despite Orion's pleadings.
Rodolphus inclined his head in gratitude to his little brother, happiness suffusing him entirely. Then his focus was on Sirius, who had his hair brushed back and tied up in a ponytail. Sirius so very rarely wore his hair up, the wavy tresses usually went half way down his back, but he'd had it cut of split ends which made it come nearer his shoulder blades. He was standing proud and tall, with the very best of robes on, and neat and tidy, and Rodolphus knew it was for him. Sirius didn't care much for the opinion of others, so if he was messy, he was messy and that was the end of it.
"I wish to take a quick moment of behalf of Lord Corvus Lestrange, and thank everyone for coming," Lord Slytherin spoke, and as always there was a quick hush a everyone stopped speaking to listen. "Especially our own Heir Potter, and Master Lestrange, may the Lestrange and Black ancestors be looking down in acceptance and happiness as another Heir Lestrange ties the knot." Lips twitching in amusement, but he kept it to himself.
"I love you, only you. Take my hand and hold it tight. Take my hand and everything will be alright." Rodolphus said slowly, lowly and intimately, meant for Sirius' ears only. Holding out his hands, ready to embrace Sirius into the Lestrange fold for good. "Today I say, "I do" but to me that means, "I will". I will take your hand and stand by your side in the good and the bad. I dedicate myself to your happiness, success, and smile. I will stand and love you forever." He had not used such vows when marrying Bellatrix. He hadn't said anything about 'love' at all. Nor had she come to that. It didn't feel faked this time around, and it made him giddy something he very rarely felt.
Sirius smiled, his blue eyes dancing brightly, his attention avidly on Rodolphus. Crossing his hands, he put his left hand in Rodolphus' left hand, and his right in his soon-to-be husband's right hand. "I promise to be your guiding light in the darkness, a warming comfort in the cold, and shoulder to lean on when life is too much to bear on your own. I vow to always protect you from harm, to stand with you against your troubles and to look to you when I need protection. I promise to be your navigator, best friend, and husband. I promise to honour, love, and cherish you through all life's adventures. Wherever we go, we'll go together." Giving Rodolphus a knowing look.
Rodolphus' head raised a little as he stared at Sirius thoughtfully, interesting wording for sure. He wondered for a brief moment whether Sirius knew everything. Light in his darkness, life's adventures, wherever they go they go together. It could be a coincidence of course, and that's what Rodolphus chose to believe. For now, at least.
Lord Slytherin accepted one of the first cords from Harry with a small smile, he too pondered on Sirius' vows. He was quickly distracted by the cords, they were imbued with the family's magic, to make the bindings all that more powerful. Including Harry, despite the fact he hadn't married into the family yet. Which wasn't normally done at all.
"Today we're gathered here today for the joining in Handfasting Rodolphus and Sirius Lestrange, as this knot is tied, so are your lives," Lord Slytherin said, as he wrapped the first cord around their hands and wrists with deftness that only came with practice or having done it before. "Woven into this cord, imbued into its very fibres, are all the hopes of your friends and family, and of yourselves, for your new life together. With the fashioning of this knot do I tie all the desires, dreams, love, and happiness wished here in this place to your lives for as long as love shall last." The cord glowed as if it were imbued with an inner light.
With that Lord Slytherin took a step back, as Harry moved forward, excitement thrummed through him. You could see it, feel it, even if his face was composed. The downside of being extremely powerful, Tom had ensured he had his magic locked down…Harry wasn't quite able to. Something he deduced was that he hadn't known about his magic – or guessed – and tried to tame it while Tom had done.
"May this cord draw your hands together in love, never to be used in anger. May the vows you have spoken never grow bitter in your mouths." Harry said, wrapping his own ribbon around their wrists, he had chosen them. "As joining the hands, you're bound as one, eternally joined, may your life be long and happy." His was blood red, which indicated passion and love.
Rabastan approached with a purple ribbon, progress and power, and there was plenty of power in that ribbon. "As any child discovers when they are learning to tie their own shoes, the first move is to cross the ends. As your hands are bound by this cord, so is your partnership held by the symbol of this knot. May it be granted that what is done before the gods be not undone by man. Two entwined in love, bound by commitment and fear, sadness and joy, by hardship and victory, anger and reconciliation, all of which brings strength to this union." With his ribbon knotted, he stepped back a wistful look on his face, only a few more years.
Rodolphus swallowed thickly, truer words had never been spoken. Then his father approached them, with his own ribbon.
"In times past it was believed that the human soul shared characteristics with all things divine. It is this belief which assigned virtues to the cardinal directions; East, South, West and North. It is in this tradition that a blessing is offered in support of this ceremony. Blessed be this union with the gifts of the East. Communication of the heart, mind, and body Fresh beginnings with the rising of each Sun. The knowledge of the growth found in the sharing of silences. Blessed be this union with the gifts of the South. Warmth of hearth and home the heat of the heart's passion. The light created by both To lighten the darkest of times." Corvus said smoothly causing the women to sniffle a little, watching with watery eyes their hearts tugging at Corvus' words.
"Blessed be this union with the gifts of the West. The deep commitments of the lake. The swift excitement of the river the refreshing cleansing of the rain the all-encompassing passion of the sea. Blessed be this union with the gifts of the North Firm foundation on which to build Fertility of the fields to enrich your lives. A stable home to which you may always return. Each of these blessings from the four cardinal directions emphasizes those things which will help you build a happy and successful union. Yet they are only tools. Tools which you must use together in order to create what you seek in this union."
"Welcome to the Lestrange family, Sirius," Corvus finished, as he wrapped his cord around their hands. "Blessed be!"
Sirius swallowed the lump in his throat, "Thank you," he managed to rasp out quietly. It was all he'd ever wanted, to be part of a family, to be wanted. He guessed you were never too old to get what you wanted more than anything else. He'd thought he'd been happy being the third wheel in Lily and James' relationship and having a godson instead of a child…now he wanted the whole package…was it stupid of him? Definitely, but they had made him want more, want it all. Rodolphus especially, wanted to give him everything he wanted.
"Allow me to introduce you to Rodolphus and Sirius Lestrange, you are now husband and husband, you may kiss." Lord Slytherin said, a composed small smile on his face, which he told himself was just for the pictures, as cameras went off a mile a minute from guests and the wizard Corvus had hired.
"Too bad we can't leave like this," Rodolphus said wryly.
"Oh, please, it's hardly the kinkiest thing we've done." Sirius said before snapping his mouth closed mortified, he'd forgotten he was surrounded on all sides and that his godson was too close and had probably heard it!
"Blessed Be!" the guests called out, almost closing their eyes at the feel of the magic surrounding them in its cherished intensity. It was a heady feeling, both on the receiving end and reciprocating end, he knew because he felt it too.
With a flick of Lord Slytherin's wand, the bonds sank into their skin, and the ribbon and cord unfurled and laid itself on the altar. Both Rodolphus and Sirius gave thanks, flexing their hands, their skin reddened where the cord and ribbon bit into their skin a little. Criss crossed across their hands and wrists.
The magic was pulsing in the air, this sacred place, so full of Lestrange family magicks and those who had married into the family. Almost as if the family spirits were giving their approval.
Lucius and Narcissa stepped forward, Narcissa grasped their hands, "Blessings to you both! May your love stronger, your commitment deepens, and your joy increase from this day forward." Her tone was so dry that it should have produced mummy dust.
"On this momentous occasion, which marks the start of your life together I wish you that the journey you are stepping be a happy one filled with peace and harmony, romance and passion, joy and laughter, and much more." Lucius told them sincerely, he loved his wife but sometimes he didn't understand her.
"Thank you, Narcissa, Lucius," Rodolphus inclined his head, not at all ruffled by Narcissa's blandness. She had always been a rather standoffish Witch. In fact, if he recalled correctly, she said the same thing after his Handfasting to Bellatrix. She was either still angry over Bellatrix's death or she hated Sirius because he'd had the guts to leave the family.
"On your wedding, my best wishes are there with you two. May your love be the enduring crown jewel that ties together the life you are getting into. Best Wishes my father and Percy sends his as well!" Fred said beaming in delight, clearly very happy for the both of them.
"You have my heartfelt congratulations on your wedding! May the bond between you two last forever, and should it ever change, may it change to a better and firmer one," Bill said coming next.
"Wishing you many more days of happiness and occasions for celebration, and a lifetime of love and laughter together." George said dramatically causing Sirius to burst out laughing, shaking his head. Merlin, he loved the twins and the drama and happiness they brought with them. It reminded him of the good old days. Harry wasn't ever going to be like them, and that's okay, he was his own man.
"Marriage lets you enjoy with and annoy one special person for the rest of your life. I am glad you got the one to annoy and enjoy with for the rest of your life." Barty said sincerely and heartfelt. Squeezing their hands. "I'm sure Regulus would have said the same. Since he's not here, I've said it for him he really did love you, and missed you." entirely sober, the place his Lord had signed him into when he found out from Rabastan about his problem had immediately begun to rectify the problem. Which meant he'd gone cold turkey; he wasn't even allowed meals with alcohol in them. Which sucks, because he enjoyed a succulent braised venison. Although the weather more than made up for it, and he was feeling significantly improved in a few short months.
Sirius nodded, eyes pained, of course, Regulus had been good friends with Barty, and Rabastan actually. Chances are…chances are Regulus had been compelled to serve Voldemort too. It seemed every single 'Death Eater' he'd known existed had been under the Imperius curse, by Barty Crouch Senior of all people. It sickened him to the core, even Orion, his father, had been speechless. "Thank you," Narcissa was as close as to family he had here today. She definitely wasn't happy, then again…Narcissa had married out of obligation and family expectation, he was marrying for love, it has to sting.
"On your wedding, I wish your love be like a shining star, brightening even the darkest of times. Best Wishes"
"May your love nourish, and your marriage be the biggest happiness and blessing of your life. Congratulations!"
"May your love have all the power to face any storm, and your future life together be filled with unending love, laughter, and joy. Congratulations on your wedding."
"May you two share your bond as friends and love as a couple, because friendship is the most essential ingredient of a successful marriage and the two grow stronger, courageous, and joyful, with the beautiful ship of friendship. Congratulations."
"Heartiest congratulation to you two on reaching this lovely milestone. We pray all the luck, favour and togetherness always."
"Every day of your life you share together, may deepen and strengthen your love as you accompany one another to even the happier older years. Congratulations on your wedding."
And on and on it went, as the two married wizards happily received congratulations and well wishes from their guests. As they added their own magic to the cords and ribbons that bound Rodolphus and Sirius' hands together. They stood at the altar until everyone was done.
"I'm glad we didn't have any more people coming," Sirius muttered, he just wasn't used to the contact, people touching him, or the people full stop. Sure, his shop got busy, but Arthur did the majority of the sales. He'd attended a few parties with a whole lot of people, but there he could mostly just interact with people he wanted to, not be overwhelmed – half of the people he didn't even know very much – with everything. Sure, it was fun winding them up, but Rodolphus stopped him having fun for the most part. He was a spoil sport. "I'm starving, I didn't eat anything this morning." He confessed as the smell wafted towards him, his stomach grumbling.
"Nor did you eat dinner last night," Rodolphus pointed out, tugging Sirius towards the seating area, he could smell the massive bonfire before he felt it. The heat roared up his side, he could see the flickering flame. He could also see the two broomsticks laid out for the last ritual of the night, broom hopping.
"Here you go," Rabastan said, grinning widely, as he handed over the two flagons of Mead. The oldest of alcohol in the world, and still traditionally the only alcoholic beverage available at Handfasting ceremonies. It was a tradition they didn't want to break.
"Where's mine?" Harry stared almost pouting.
"You shouldn't drink any, it's high in alcohol content," Rabastan told him, turning back to his brother steeling himself. The more honey it had, the higher the alcohol content, and judging by the taste, it was at least thirty to forty percent alcohol.
"They shouldn't either! They might see double broomsticks!" Harry said sullenly, biting his lip, anxiety getting the better of him.
"Speaking of broomsticks…it's time!" Corvus said, joining them, his hands landing on Harry's shoulders. Which eased him a little, but he was still majorly confused by Rabastan being the way he was.
Everyone gathered around the broomsticks in a loose circle, their drinks temporarily abandoned as the jubilant couple jumped over the broomstick. Sirius, of course, waved his hands in a 'ta-da' movement, laughing in merriment.
As everyone began to applaud, "You were right, this was the way to go," Sirius murmured his agreement to Rodolphus, who despite getting married was mostly blank faced, too used to never revealing his thoughts and feelings. Sirius felt a little smug and rather powerful that he could bring out the best in Rodolphus. That he showed his real face to him, his feelings. "It's much more…just much more than a simple wedding." It was better than just a piece of paper for sure.
"It is," Rodolphus agreed, squeezing his hand, lips curling up smugly. The music changed from upbeat to slow and romantic immediately after the jump. He reeled Sirius in closely, genuinely so much happier than he'd been in a long, long time. "Thank you for making me the happiest wizard in the world tonight." And to add to his buoyance, there was a hope for children in their future.
He had meant it; he was quite happy to have only Sirius. Would have gone without children of any kind, from either of them. Yet there was hope, he'd wait for however long Sirius needed to be ready.
"That's something I should be saying," Sirius said, grey eyes filled with happiness. "I…I gave up on being happy a long time ago. I never expected this to be in my future."
"I know," Rodolphus murmured, leaning his head against Sirius' as they slowly swayed a little, "Me too." They both understood one another in a way nobody ever would. "And I promise tonight we'll take the ribbons back to the Manor with us." he added hotly into Sirius' ear.
"We're going back to the manor?" Sirius asked, moving away in confusion.
Rodolphus laughed, "Yes, it's where the Portkey is," then they'd be on their fortnight long honeymoon on a tropical island where there would be nobody around except for them and a House-elf. They had a lot of markets and shops they planned on visiting, but other than that, it was going to be fun and sun. Sirius was in particular looking forward to the Kelpie Water Polo.
"Should have just brought it here," Sirius shrugged, then again that is what House-elves were for.
If Harry didn't know any better…he'd say Rabastan was ignoring him…that he didn't want him anymore. Hell, he was almost entirely dismissive of him. While Rabastan's letters were still the same, Harry couldn't help but notice he was very, very distant with him in person. He was doing his level best to stay as far as humanly possible away from him.
"I'd like to say goodbye to everyone first," Rodolphus murmured, looking over at the table that the cake was on. Flowers, lots of them, spread all across a six-tier cake, along with birch, hawthorn and Rowan – at least it was meant to be – trees designed on the side. A traditional cake for a traditional Handfasting.
Rodolphus frowned, as the Dark Mark twinged, he wasn't being summoned, no. The Dark Lord was pissed off for some reason. Rodolphus didn't need to look far at all. He found Bill Weasley dancing with Patil and rather…intimately too. With Fred and George mocking them from behind. He had to choke back his amusement seeing them acting that way.
"…and you're not even listening to me, are you?" Sirius said wryly, only to arch a brow in surprise when he heard him laugh. Whirling around to see what was going on, only to burst out laughing too. Fred was mock dragging George across the ground while he fluttered his eyelashes.
"Oh, Merlin, I almost want them to come," Sirius managed to wheeze out, as George stood back up dramatically leaning back over his brother before they strutted from one end of the 'dance floor' to the other.
"Think again," Rodolphus said wryly, "They're menaces!" watching the Dark Lord Approach Bill, that look on his face? Oh, he wouldn't like to be on the receiving end of it.
"That's what makes them fun," Sirius barked out an amused laugh, his gaze still avidly on the twins, oh, they reminded him of himself and James at that age. It made his heart hurt for the past, but he knew the more he focused on the past, the less clear he'd see the future.
Rodolphus just smirked and shook his head.
"I'd very much like to cut in," one very irate Dark Lord said, gritting his teeth as Patil drew Bill even closer to him. Hmm, he wasn't the direct line, despite being oldest. The family surely wouldn't miss him, then again, death would be too easy, perhaps just four limbs being removed will teach him not to be so rude.
It didn't help that Bill just narrowed his eyes in annoyance at his appearance.
"Get your own date," Patil declared without even looking, if he had, he would have already been digging himself half way to China. The Dark Lord's eyes were practically spitting fire at the interloper.
If they were narrowed before, they became slits, it would be a genuine surprise if he could see at all.
"We didn't come as dates," Bill stated firmly, keeping boundaries. He might be trying to make Aurelius a little jealous, but he didn't want it to go too far. He didn't want Patil to get the wrong idea, even if he did want Aurelius to at the end of the day.
Hmm, yes, permanently losing all four limbs were sounding better by the day. No need to go easy on him, but he might have to wait a few days…he didn't want anyone to cast suspicion on his persona. "You and I, we need to talk." He informed Bill, "Shall we?" hand out imperiously waiting on Bill hopefully complying.
"Why? Talking never accomplishes anything," Bill said, "Now I'd very much like to continue enjoying…" a squeak left his lips as he was manhandled from Patil into Aurelius' arms, Patil was behind him…but the look on Aurelius' face was a fearsome sight to behold.
"Let me go. You sanctimonious bastard," Bill hissed, but he couldn't budge from his grip.
"Now that's hardly accurate, my parents happen to be married when I was born," Tom said insulted.
"The word isn't used for what it used to mean!" Bill huffed out, there was no wiggle room. "Now let me go."
"Ah, but is that what you really want?" Tom purred into his ear, dark eyes gleaming possessively. "I mean, wasn't this the whole point of tonight? All this to make me jealous?" whispering into Bill's ear, feeling each shudder wracking his frame.
"Did not," Bill retorted, flushing red in mortification at being called out and his reply, it was so childish and so very right.
"My attention has always been yours," Tom revealed.
"Really?" Bill said dryly, "Is that why you run every single time we have a good time as if I've stood on your tail!"
Tom cleared his throat, "I haven't run…" he denied, "I've just had appointment I couldn't miss."
"Liar," Bill stated before adding firmly. "Look I'm not going to do this with you forever…" it was like he had different personalities, it was ridiculous, it was always one step forward two steps back with Aurelius. He wasn't sure what his hang up is.
Tom inhaled sharply, staring at Bill, forgetting everything else, "My mother had my father under a love potion, it's how I was conceived. He ran the moment she ran out or stopped giving it to him. I've been told all my life that children conceived from such occurrences cannot feel anything. My headmaster especially, believed I was incapable of feeling any positive emotion, including love."
Bill froze, turning to stare at Aurelius' in shock.
"I believed it for the longest time, but what I feel for you is very different from what I've ever felt before." Tom revealed, "I'm not sure I'll ever be what's right or good for you…but I have missed you very much." Ugh, he felt sick revealing all this. Forget his enemies knowing his weaknesses, Bill knowing was worse. How did humanity do this?
Why did he reclaim the Horcruxes again? He was beginning to think he liked it better before.
Bill held his breath, "You actually want to date?" wanting to make sure he had it right. He'd thought so often in the past that he was right but not once had he been right.
"Yes," Tom agreed, looking as if he'd rather be tortured than continue this conversation. "Well?" getting impatient himself.
Bill smiled, before grasping Aurelius by his neck and drawing him in for a kiss, a real, honestly to Merlin kiss. He'd waited so long for Aurelius to come around; he was beginning to think it wouldn't happen. When they breathlessly withdrew a few moments later, "I'm glad I came," Bill muttered nodding his head eyes glazed over heatedly. He hadn't been sure if he should, knowing that Aurelius would be there.
Tom made a noise of agreement, frowning when he felt the wards give at Hogwarts. Interesting, why had Harry returned so soon? It wasn't like him.
A/N – Once again, just because I write it…doesn't make me believe it, or it true, please keep that in mind. So, if something catches your attention google it before you take me on my word. 😊 Hmm I didn't get as much as Tom/Bill in as I would have liked but they're side characters LOL all the side characters are totally taking over! The Granger scene will come next…now what do you think we could have Hermione doing that would see her expelled from Hogwarts? Hmm 😉 stealing isn't bad enough and I can't really see her doing it unless it's a very rare book that she 'doesn't think he deserves' and Tom is looking for any excuse…poor Harry though things are going to be really bumpy for a while 😊 who would have thought confidence would give him confidence issues? :P with not realizing why Rabastan was acting that way…but next chapter definitely Hermione time sooo….any ideas welcomed…she was supposed to be a background character, as in not thought of much or written about much but go figure she'd crop in now and again lol READ AND REVIEW please!