Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, its characters, or anything associated with it. The others are mine. Resemblance of any character to an actual person is completely accidental. Please don't sue *shows pockets* look no money.

They knew what to do, their various Elements had fully instructed them on the details.

Except who they were to partner.

By afternoon, Natasha called them together for Air had agreed to send them to their destination. She lifted her left hand in the air, her hand curling gracefully, and then with a fluid sweep, brought her hand down.

The moment her hand was down, they had arrived.

And there was a man was standing next to a table, with a startled expression on his face. She recognised him, of course, from the many scryings she had done.

She took a deep breath and schooled her expression to one of disdain, arrogance and determination.

It was Professor Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts, of course.

~*~

Dumbledore blinked. And blinked again. If he was not mistaken, four people were now materialising into his office.

Four very young people.

I'm going mad, Alastor was right. Perhaps I need a break, a very long one in that, or maybe a nice, relaxing retirement. He sat down on his armchair, and poured himself a cup of tea. Yes, yes, a cup of tea is fine. I need a cup of tea.

But it was not their youth that shook him.

It was the knowledge of who they were and what they had come for.

Pyros looked amused as he noticed the old man's hand tremble while pouring the tea.

Is he going to offer the cup of tea to us? What is this, a welcome party to Hogwarts? He directed the thought to Natasha and noted a slight curling of her lip.

Yes, you idiot. This is Dumbledore, also a branded servant of Air. Who will co-operate with us in this…venture. Her answer was tinged with derision and in his mind, felt like an icy winter breeze.

Why are you so sure?

He owes us a debt. He knows who we are.

I see…A debt in exchange for what service? And are you saying that our decision was already made for us in advance?

Buzz away, 'ros. Let me concentrate. She then blocked him, effectively preventing him from a sharp retort and further questions.

Dumbledore cradled the cup of tea in his hands, drawing in its warmth for comfort. Sipping the tea slowly, he stared at them unabashed, scrutinizing their every detail. He knew what they were and what was demanded of him of course, his price in a bargain made a very long time ago when Air claimed him for servitude.

He had just never really thought about the whole thing.

Or perhaps he had never wanted to.

The girl with silver hair went forward – ah yes! She must be Air. She was lovely, he would admit, in a sharp, untouchable way. Slim bordering on thinness, of moderate height, with unfathomable silver eyes and power – real Power, forming mists around her limbs. Her voice was lilting and clear.

 " Airnetus?" 

He felt his lips moving before he even thought of answering, " I will obey." All of them knew his True Name now. Dumbledore felt a sudden pinch of fear.

" Good. Air, Water, Fire, Earth have come as is our right and you will pay for your debt. Get the students. Bring them here. One of course, will die. The others will still have a chance of living. We came to you first, in courtesy only. Meddle Airnetus, and you will find the consequences…unpleasant."

She smiled suddenly, her eyes dancing with mirth, " Introductions will come later…when everyone has assembled."

Bowing mockingly, she nodded to the others and as suddenly as they appeared, they vanished.