Chapter 26: Goblin Justice

The smile that adorned Gellert Grindelwald's face made him look like what he was: an apex predator. Things were progressing in Romania. If they got to the giant community there, it was only a matter of time until Ukraine would fall. If Grindelwald managed to get the Russian magical community behind his ranks, they would take most of Europe within a couple of year. Horatio Parkinson had come through with the money that was financing their Romanian ops. His only caveat was that he would be allowed to destroy every single one of Malfoy's possessions. That was an easy feat. It had been a couple of days since Malfoy was taken deep underground in Gringotts. Since Lucius was awaiting goblin trial, and Armand had quickly decided it was in his best interest to bend the knee for Gellert, Lucius' house was empty save for a few lackeys that were disposed of with ease.

Horatio had finally grown a backbone. He had sworn to scorch the Earth in revenge for the death of his male air. Such passion, ruthlessness, and fierceness -Grindelwald noticed- was not extended to his daughters. What a hypocritical bastard. Horatio had allowed his wife to do what she saw fit. As a result of this, he was essentially forced to sign to betrothals, but Gellert really thought that Horatio would have preferred Malfoy to marry Pansy. The man clearly had a soft spot for his oldest daughter and the youngest, from all accounts, sounded like a nightmare. Gellert could throw up. Giving your child willingly to such a swamp creature as Malfoy was despicable regardless of the circumstances. Just because he had never envisioned parenthood as a possible future for him, that didn't mean he wished them evil, and a life as Malfoy's sex slave was as horrible as it could get for anyone… Ever.

Since the miscarriage and the epic fight that followed, Antigone had packed up her and her daughters' stuff, and she had moved to a secondary home that the Parkinsons had in Scotland. The girls still were for all intents and purposes heiresses, especially Cicely, but Gellert was certain that did not matter to Horatio, for his House would die with him. His pride wouldn't let him expose his family with a divorce. He wouldn't recognize a bastard, and Antigone was forbidden from trying to get pregnant again. As Frederick Douglass once said, "At a time like this, scorching irony, not convincing argument is needed." It was no less than Parkinson deserved. He was reaping what his cowardice and stupidity had sowed.

And so, Malfoy Manor was attacked with bombardas and fiendfyre once all the valuables had been removed and sold to the highest bidder. Once only scorched ruins were left, Grindelwald and an uncomfortable Dumbledore cursed the land with so many different dark enchantments that would ensure no one could ever live there comfortably again. The land itself was no use to the pair because it was too close to populated areas, and as such, no secrecy would be guaranteed. When all was said and done, Grindelwald received not one but two million galleons from the Parkinson vault. Let the second uprising begin!

Under all his rage, Horatio was heartbroken. He had always wanted a male heir to carry on his family name. Like many men of his generation, he felt he could only express his feelings through rage. He had only broken down at the hospital because of the cruciatus. Horatio wished he could obliviate the Potters and that hag Greengrass. He hated that they had seen him vulnerable. Up until that moment, only Antigone and his parents had ever seen him cry. Oh… And Lord Voldemort, but those were tears of pain, not heartache.

To make matters worse, Antigone had decided to separate from him. Her move to Scotland was to afford her time and space while she decided whether to demand a divorce. Narcissa had talked to Antigone about her situation and retold her how she revamped her life after she got rid of Lucius. Horatio's hatred for Narcissa only grew as she encouraged his wife to leave him with her comments on how happy she was with her second husband and her son, as well as the baby on the way. Parkinson would make her pay. This was the second time she had humiliated him, but it would be the last. He'd have no mercy if they ever faced each other in a battlefield.

Lucius couldn't see much. It was quite dark where he was. After that chit electrocuted him, he knew no more. The goblins had dragged him down to the deepest level without a care as to what his limp body would hit: steps, obstacles, pieces of armor, or walls on the way. He was now tied, hands and feet, to a cement bed without any mattress. His clothes were filthy, and he was in so much pain he could not think straight. The air was sweltering hot. A bloody dragon was too close for comfort, and it kept trying to reach deeper into his cell. He had no clue how his sheets hadn't caught on fire. His clothes were drenched in sweat. He felt sticky and gross.

Lucius couldn't remember the last time he had eaten. However, he wasn't hungry, just very thirsty. He blinked furiously as his own sweat fell inside his straining eyes. He heard several sets of heavy steps coming towards his general direction and the clacking of heels, more than one pair, from the sound of it. The heat lessened a bit as the dragon was moved away.

"Malfoy, wake up. His Majesty, King Nagkrat, Lord and Lady Potter, Lord and Lady Prince, and Lady Parkinson are here to see you," a guard bellowed.

With a snap of King Nagkrat's thick fingers, Malfoy was sat up while still tied. The Deatheater groaned but realized he could not say anything.

"You will not speak. You will listen," King Nagkrat snapped.

"Malfoy, at last, where you belong," Lord Potter looked at the man with scorn.

Lucius tried to turn away, but a new tie forced his face towards the group.

"The most Ancient and Noble House of Potter calls a Blood Feud with House of Malfoy," Lord Potter said slowly. "If you ever make it out of here, which you won't, I will own your head."

Malfoy groaned as if asking something.

"On what grounds? Trespassing, attacking our home, our friends, our allies, and especially for what you did to Lady Dagworth-Granger and Nymphadora Tonks. This is also retributive action for how you tormented and hurt Narcissa and Draco," Lord Potter looked at the blonde with absolute contempt. "Abusers like you should be condemned to live as you forced your ex-wife and son to live for the rest of your life: in pain and in fear. You are a bloody pedophile, a wife-beater, a poor excuse for a father, a rapist, and an all-around foul piece of shit," Charlus stepped back so Lady Parkinson could approach the blond.

"My husband has always been a coward. But he reached new lows by even considering you could marry Pansy. I cannot call a feud with you because I am not the Head of my House, but I have already taken what I wanted from you. I am sure that the goblins will not disappoint with their punishments," Antigone got closer to him. "You may not remember this, but allow me to remind you," she pulled down his pants in one swift motion. Lucius screamed without making a sound. He had been castrated?! Why couldn't he remember it?!

"You will never rape anyone else again. Oh, and in case you are wondering why you are not in pain, I asked His Majesty to keep you sedated until I could see your pained face in person. I needed that satisfaction. King Nagkrat, may I?"

"By all means," the king smirked evilly.

Antigone removed the strong numbing and pain-relieving spells, and Malfoy knew agony. It was worse than a cruciatus by Voldemort himself. Rivers of tears ran down to his ears as he tilted his head back as much as the ties allowed. Narcissa thought she would be gleeful at this scene, but since she was pregnant, she felt sick more than anything else. Thank Morgana that Severus had insisted on coming. He wrapped his arm around her waist supportively and squeezed her against him gently. Narcissa placed her hands over her belly protectively.

Charlus cleared his throat, "The Alliance accuses House Malfoy of four counts of threatening their line succession by ordering the children of his minions, Crabbe and Goyle, to hurt Scion Black, which in turn led to attacks on Scion Potter, Scion Longbottom, and Scioness Dagworth-Granger which could have been fatal had they lost control of their cores," Lord Potter spoke with an angry scowl. He was glad Malfoy was in horrible pain. Lady Potter pulled him back and gave him a placating look. This was about House of Prince.

"The Noble House of Prince declares a Blood Feud on House of Malfoy," Severus said in his coldest tone. "First, for the kidnapping and attempted murder of Lady Dagworth Granger, who has been under this House's protection since the alliance was formed. Second, for the physical injuries that Lady Prince and Scion Black suffered on the attack upon Potter Manor… and as retributive action for the hell, you put them through for years."

Malfoy rolled his eyes. He looked at Narcissa's round belly with hatred.

Lady Prince took a deep breath and straightened her back to her most royal stance. Slowly, she said, "I really thought I would rejoice at seeing you destroyed, especially considering that you would have loved to see me torn apart by rabid dogs… You deserve all that is horrible and painful and soul-crushing in the world. But here we are, and the only thing I feel for you is pity, and you don't deserve that."

Through the pain, Lucius was furious that she thought she could ever pity him. He struggled in vain against his ties.

Narcissa took a step forward with her head held high and carried on, "However, I know that you enjoyed seeing me and Draco suffer and cry for years. And I know that the worst punishment I can give you is to tell you that you didn't win."

Lucius looked at her with fury and struggled harder, which made his still recent amputation hurt as if it had just happened. He trashed on the bed, screaming without a sound. When he finally stopped, Narcissa bent at the waist sightly so Malfoy could see her face clearly in the darkness of the cell, "I am happily married, in love with a wonderful man who is ten times a better husband and father than you ever were. We are expecting a healthy baby and have a thriving business together. I have never missed anything material you thought compensated for your torture and abuse; neither has Draco."

Malfoy looked at Narcissa in a way that made it clear he didn't believe her.

She carried on, "Draco is a smart, gentlemanly, kind, loyal, and loving boy. Lord Black and Lord Lupin-Black have spared no expenses to prepare him to one day take over his lordship, and he has flourished. He is happy and strong. He has friends who love and protect him and who he loves and protects fiercely. Draco is not a bully like you. He will grow into a great man because he has been surrounded by incredible men since we left you."

Lucius rolled his eyes as Severus and Charlus placed their hands on Narcissa's shaky shoulders supportively. She took a deep breath. She refused to cry in his presence. "Charlus, Sirius, Remus, Daniel, Martin, Severus, and Matthieu have been a blessing to us. They have lovingly, patiently, and voluntarily helped put all the pieces of my son back together after you took a bat to every inch of him. We rebuilt him from the ground up. Emma, Eileen, Dorea, Minerva, Ianthe, Nymph, Hermione, and Neesy have healed the wounds you left on his body and heart. He doesn't even look like you anymore. They have all helped me shape Draco into the amazing young person that he is today… Someone who couldn't be more different than you, someone you wouldn't even recognize, thank Merlin and Morgana… Oh, and thank Jesus too. He actually prays for you, you narcissistic sociopathic motherfucker… After everything you did to us -to him- Draco still has it in his heart to wish you well. Live with that."

Malfoy closed his eyes. He wouldn't give her the satisfaction to see that her words were getting to him. Never.

"Lords, Ladies," King Nagkrat cleared his throat slightly. "Anything else?"

"No, I just want to leave. He makes me sick," Lady Potter took hold of her husband's hand and pulled him away. Lord and Lady Prince gave Lucius a last scathing look, and Narcissa kissed her husband tenderly for good measure. Lady Parkinson lingered behind.

"Your Majesty?"

"Yes?"

"Would you be opposed to making his life more painful and difficult?" the woman looked predatorial.

"Never," he smirked. "We just need him alive for the trial."

Antigone showed the king a bottle of pure alcohol, "May I?"

"Suit yourself," the king nodded and undid the silencing spell.

The screams that followed would have made Bellatrix Lestrange delirious with joy. Antigone left with a bright, self-satisfied smile on her face, as did the king, who thought it was very fair punishment.

Elloise was having tea with her mother. Her brother had decided to stay in the States to pursue a work opportunity there. The Dugards weren't happy about that, but adult children could make their own decisions. As tensions escalated in England, with people being killed randomly and others just disappearing, Elloise started working in an overwhelmed Auror Force. Today was the first day in two weeks that she had off. They were working every day with significant over time. If it wasn't for Tonks' attitude and jokes in their stakeouts, she would have fallen asleep more than once. She hated depending on Pepper Ups.

"Nous étions très heureux que vous ayez réussi à arriver aux Parkinsons à temps, ma chère," Genevieve patted her daughter's hand. [We were very happy that you made it to the Parkinsons on time, my dear]

"Je sais Maman… Il a battu une femme enceinte, l'a torturée aussi. Malfoy est un gaspillage d'oxygène." [I know, mom… He beat a pregnant woman, tortured her too. Malfoy is a waste of oxygen.]

"C'est très vrai… Je suis toujours inquiet pour toi ma fille: interpellations, exorcismes," Genevieve sighed. [That's very true… I am always worried about my daughter: arrests, exorcisms,]

"Maman… Je t'aime. Mais j'adore mon travail. De plus, le danger est implicite," [Mom…. I love you. But I adore my job. Plus, danger is implicit.]

"Je sais, mais je ne m'y habituerai jamais," Genevieve smiled sadly. [I know, but I'll never get used to it]

"Je sais, maman. Où est papa?" Elloise asked after a sip of coffee. [I know, mom. Where's dad?]

"Il est au Ministère avec Charlus. Ils s'assurent que tout va bien…" [He's at the Ministry with Charlus. They are making sure everything is okay]

"Que veux-tu dire par 'tout'?" Elloise had a suspiscious tone. [What do you mean 'everything'?]

"Ce n'est pas important... La bureaucratie," Genevieve blushed behind her teacup. She hated not being completely honest with her daughter. But they were trying to avoid a conflict of interest. [It's not important… Bureaucracy]

The Auror frowned. Her mother was a shitty liar. "Mhmm," she replied with a tone that conveyed she was not eating it up. Genevieve stood up with a slight blush.

"Je dois m'habiller. Ton père et moi nous rencontrons au Longbottom Manoir," Genevieve kissed her daughter's forehead as their Head Elf vanished the cup. [I have to get dressed. Your dad and I are meeting at Longbottom Manor]

"Pourquoi?" Elloise asked, giving her mom a hug goodbye. [Why?]

"Nous avons la première réunion du personnel de l'hôpital," [We are having the first staff meeting for the hospital]

"Quoi?! Vous sortez de la retraite?!" Elloise was shocked. [What?! You are coming out of retirement?]

"Oui... Depuis que toi et ton frère êtes partis, je suis à la maison…Cela fait quelques années. Je m'ennuie de me sentir productif." [Yes… After you and your brother left, I stayed home…. It's been a few years. I miss feeling productive]

"Maman, tu n'as pas à justifier ta décision. Je suis très fier de toi," Elloise's eyes were shinning and she kissed her mother's brow. [Mom, yo don't have to justify your decision. I am very proud of you]

The hiring process for the hospital was long and arduous, but the first meeting proved that they were right to only hire those who had proven their genuine interest and commitment. All specialists were truly brilliant and invested in the cause. Some of them, or their loved ones, had been discriminated against by St. Mungo's, and they saw the rationale and the need for a true open hospital. Emma talked animatedly with the Head of the Women's Health Department. Hermione had, against everyone's advice, requested a meeting with Headmistress McGonagall to talk about the lack of any sexual education at Hogwarts.

Minerva had been shocked. Not at the topic. She was no blushing, innocent maiden. The Scotswoman had been surprised at Hermione's well-thought-out explanation of why this class was necessary for all students, especially teenagers. They didn't want another pregnancy scandal with the older students... or Merlin forbid the younger ones. Minerva had heard from Severus what happened in his class. She felt bad that Hermione had to go through that, but at least she had the boys to protect her privacy as much as possible. It would be a bit of a stretch to think that the Board would approve this without a fight, but the healers were willing to go on record with all the STDs and pregnancy scares that they had dealt with, and that should help sway some people. One could hope. So, at the moment, Emma was making arrangements with a specialist to teach a workshop for the oldest students.

Charlus and Dorea felt proud. Being surrounded by so many wonderful professionals who believed in proper healthcare for all at reasonable costs was inspiring. True, they would have to hold stuffy galas and charity balls, even auctions for both the muggle and magical sides, but as long as they could raise enough money to cover up for those who couldn't afford care, they would take one (or a few) for the team. Their home was almost ready now after extensive reworking on the foundations and a harnessing of magical power from the lay lines under their grounds, thanks to human, elven, and goblin rituals. Their basement was half a safe haven, half a military training camp. Their fences were built back stronger than ever.

The Potters were resolved. They rebuilt in a way that, in the case of open war, Potter Manor and the Hospital would manage to be completely off the muggle and magical grids. Being able to survive on their own grounds without any external influence was a must for them. They created an inner grid to travel from the manor to the hospital and back, and in secret spots around the house, there were elven Portkeys that would bring them to Potter Island in case of emergency. Only their allies and friends were put into the blood wards of the island. Anyone who tried to hold on to them would be killed as they landed.

It took a lot of meetings and back and forth with Ministry authorities and the Wizengamot, but now the Hospital was given Neutral status like Switzerland in World War II times. St Mungo's had pushed hard against it, but the Alliance had too much influence in the voting. This made it so that only The Ministry, St. Mungo's, and Potter Hospital would be able to close their floo entrances and shut down any apparition or magical travel for self-protection in case of attack.

The Potters weren't naïve enough to believe that Grindelwald, Dumbledore, or Voldemort would give a damn about tearing down a full hospital. But that was not what Charlus and Dorea needed. They wanted to buy time for their personnel to evacuate as many patients as possible, especially those in no condition to defend themselves. Charlus had sought an audience with the Queen to inquire about lands that belonged to his family for ages. They had been loaned to the government for mining and crops in times of war when poverty ravaged the rural areas, but they needed them back as an undisclosed secondary location to move patients and staff in case of duress. The Queen had been surprised. She knew about magic, of course. However, she tried not to get involved. History showed the crown that they were better off without meddling with religions or magic. She acquiesced, and by the end of the month, the lands were back in the Potters' hands.

"Lucius Malfoy, you stand accused of one count of trespassing, endless domestic violence, child endangerment, two counts of kidnapping, aggravated assault and battery, pimping and pandering, several counts of rape, many counts of conspiracy to commit murder, far too many counts of murder -including the murder of Auror and Order of Merlin recipient Lord Tobias Greengrass. You are also accused of terrorism, treason, and sedition. Oh, and fleeing Azkaban, of course. Those are just the offenses humans have accused you of with ample objective proof," King Nagkrat said all this with a murderous smile. Amelia could barely sit still with how excited she was that this was finally happening.

Queen Gankra continued: "The Goblin Nation accuses you of false representation, of holding a class 7 artifact illegally within your vaults in breach of a blood signed contract, and of accessory to an attack that wounded me, Queen of Goblins, and almost killed me on Goblin Ground. This last thing alone allows me to split you in half where you stand. Additionally, you attacked our allies and family causing them serious financial and emotional harm. You threatened the lives and wellbeing of hot one but two pregnant women and their unborn children. Lastly, you were paying large commissions to your Manager at Gringotts and using him to bribe several high-ranking officials to be lenient towards you regarding taxes and permissions of all kinds. The Manager has been disposed of in a manner befitting our laws. It was… slow and painful," she smiled like the cat that got the milk.

"How do you plead?" a Goblin Judge asked.

"You can all go fuck yourselves with the largest cactus you can find!" Malfoy growled.

Emma and Daniel had covered Harry and Hermione's ears just in time.

"Innocent or guilty?"

"Guilty and proud!"

"This court appreciates your honesty, regardless of how off-putting we find it."

"Blood purity will win!" Malfoy strained, and his sleeve came up his forearm. "I will be rewarded in ways you cannot imagine, in this life and the next!"

"Your Honor, Your Majesty," Lily Potter's voice resounded echoey in the chamber. "May I address the accused?"

"A mudblood ghost?! Really!? What the bloody hell do you want?! Wasn't the Dark Lord's killing of you and your pathetic husband enough proof of our superiority?"

"You may, Mrs. Potter," the judge blatantly ignored Lucius. "As a member of a family that has been physically, psychologically, and financially affected by this man's crimes, you are entitled to speak."

"At my request, Lord and Lady Potter, as well as Lord and Lady Dagworth-Granger, had an Auror take samples of your blood from the nasty scene at the Parkinsons' store. You know, when you kidnapped them and attacked a pregnant Antigone, causing her to suffer a late miscarriage."

Many humans and goblins looked aghast at this. The man fell even lower in everyone's estimation than most would have thought possible.

"We had the sample analyzed in a blind test by three different labs. It fills me with sheer joy to let you and the world know that your blood is average at best and mediocre at worst. Minister Delacour, our ally Matthieu Dugard's personal friend, had his most trusted advisors look into your family tree in France. His findings were… quite a disappointment. Your family is comprised of weak wizards and witches, many a squib, and a couple… oddities. Incest tends to do that to a gene pool," Lily finished this with a dashing smile that didn't reach her murderous stare. Had she been in the flesh, Malfoy might have lost control of his bowels. As it was, he blanched and seemed terrified of the painted ethereal lady.

Emma stood next to the painting, and the goblin judge waved her to speak.

"When your blood magic potential was measured, it ranked in levels of average Fourth Year students at Hogwarts," the doctor shared a look with Lily, who smiled and nodded. Several people in the chamber gasped. "Our son Harry is about 10 times more powerful at his age than you are at yours. All those rituals you did to enhance your performance in the bedroom, all that dark blood magic… Well, they did a number on you."

Lucius blushed furiously as many muffled giggles and not-so-muffled commentary. Harry hid behind Charlus as many present started to try to get a good look of him. Hermione helped block him from view.

"Order! Several of you here today are not familiar with how goblin procedures work. Allow me to explain. There is no jury of peers because the accused committed trespasses against the Goblin Nation within goblin territory, so he lost that right. His offenses have been measured against our laws. We have also added the penalties against humans that put him in Azkaban, however brief his stay was. As such, this court finds Lucius Malfoy guilty of all offenses he has been accused of. You are hereby sentenced to 250 years of forced labor in our deepest mines in Russia. Your punishment will be done in chains tethered to a 22-kilogram ball. You will only be allowed to eat goblin meals, and you will not be allowed separate quarters, mail, or any privacy. You will live with the rest of the rabble that is doing time there," the Judge snapped his fingers, and Lucius' attire changed to a mining uniform. His long platinum hair fell down his body as magic gave him a buzz cut. But he refused to react to the extreme punishment.

"Any words you want to say before you are escorted away?"

Malfoy raised his face in his usual haughty expression that had less of the desired effect because of his current diminished appearance. "Yes. I only have one thing to say. House of Malfoy has decided to collect the Life Debt owed by House of Parkinson," Lucius growled.

Several people gasped, Harry and Hermione screamed "NO!" in fear. Charlus had explained Life Debts to the kids, and they had been traumatized by the mere idea of people playing God. Antigone was so horrified that she accepted Lady Potter's comforting arm around her waist. Her knees were weak. Emma reached her and held her up from the opposite side. Lily and James' portrait let out sparks, and the candles all around flickered.

Queen Gankra stood up, and in a fraction of a second, was in front of the accused before he could attempt to complete the ritual. Her sword was piercing the skin of his neck. The king appeared next to her in support. She growled, "You do not get to collect that debt, Malfoy. You cost that family their male heir. The debt is paid tenfold."

Malfoy tried to speak, but the judge lifted a hand. "And now, Your Majesty, you may bind the prisoner's core," the judge said.

"What?!" Lucius looked at the judge in terror.

"You have proven you cannot live within the confines of what you humans call civilized society. Weren't you one of the wizards who were against all creatures being equal? Didn't you think we were all animals and beasts? You can't live with your kind. Therefore, you will have to live with our kind. However, our kind deserves to be safe from you as well. " the judge sneered at the man. With another snap of his fingers, thick shackles surrounded Malfoy's ankles and wrists and a big iron ball at the end of a chain. The weight of the ball made Lucius curve his back as his head slumped forward. King Nagkrat hit his staff on the ground, and Malfoy vanished.

Harry and Hermione were shocked by the proceedings(?) at the goblin court. It was so different from any legal system they had heard of. There was no jury, no questioning the accused, no deliberation. Malfoy had been asked to plead. The word of the judge, based on the previous human ruling and the attack on goblin soil, was absolute. There was no right to appeal. No nothing. It wasn't like the man deserved any better; still, it was different from what they were expecting.

Draco was morose the whole day. His friends retold what they saw. He knew Lucius was getting what he deserved. Still, some part deep in his heart hurt. It was quite annoying. His biological father never cared for him. Draco knew it was dumb of him to give a damn, but he couldn't help it. He had received a letter from Martin, who had already left for Brazil. However, Narcissa had contacted him. She felt the priest's relationship with her son was quite special, and he could help Draco move past his like he helped him when Malfoy disowned him.

Emma told Narcissa that Draco would ask the kids what happen, so she decided to send him the moving ultrasound pictures through her husband right after her appointment, which was that same afternoon. Severus had been concerned that the trial would agitate her and wanted to make sure everything was alright. The appointment had gone very well, the baby was growing nicely, and the mother was as healthy as could be expected. The moving image perked their son up considerably. He went around the entire school to show his baby brother or sister (it was still too early to tell) to all the professors he liked and his friends, of course. The kids of the family were all happy for Draco. He would be a wonderful older brother: protective, patient, and kind.

Lord Black and Lord Lupin-Black had moved to Potter Island. Remus left under protest. He kept saying that he saw no point in leaving. Their cottage was very isolated. They had no neighbors for miles. Plus, they were needed in England. No matter what he said, Sirius put his foot down. He wouldn't be comfortable until the mating season was over.

Tonks had volunteered to join them at Potter Island to test their… impulses, for research, of course, and under the strict supervision of Scamander. They had talked during the hospital's first staff meeting, and Newt insisted on the importance of the data.

The day the two got to the island, and Remus got his first whiff of the powerful pheromones that his inner wolf had fixated on, he decided his husband was right. This was a bad idea. That thought didn't last long, though, because his nose was celebrating the delicious smell that arrived with the Auror. Tonks greeted them with a wave. She was inside a sort of thick glass cage for her own protection. Inside the cage was also Ianthe Greengrass, who had volunteered to tag along. The ladies had been tasked with advancing the planning of a preventive initiative, and as they would be coming there for a few days, they could advance as they helped Newt.

Remus was mortified. Sirius was much more practiced at not drooling over women anymore. Remus wasn't. Although his rational mind wanted to gauge his own eyes out, he couldn't help but ogle Tonks. The man felt all sorts of wrong about it. He was always respectful, even to a fault, but he had never been attracted to women before Sirius bit him. His hormones had other ideas than his gay self did.

Tonks and Ianthe were on a sofa inside the cage, talking, running numbers, and having iced tea. A couple of elves were inside for their security. Additionally, the two ladies had asked for their inputs. Jonsy was much more experienced than Tremmy, but this meeting would help the young elf a lot. The four were enraptured in a strategic conversation. How could The Alliance get to the Russians before Grindelwald did? There had been chatter that their dark faction was in Romania and advancing steadily.

Newt approached the married couple.

"How is it going?" he asked, shaking their hands.

"I want to throttle you," Sirius admitted with a shrug.

"Is it because of the ladies or because of me?" Newt lifted a brow at Sirius, entirely unconcerned that the man would actually act upon that wish.

"Huh?" Sirius countered.

"Have you been defensive about each other?" Newt took out his pad and magical feather pen. "Or am I just lucky?"

"It's the ladies for sure. No offense Newt. You are not our type," Sirius nudged Remus, who didn't reply. His senses were too focused on the beads of sweat traveling down Tonks' décolletage. His husband's nudge didn't break the spell.

"She has eyes too," Sirius snapped.

"What?" Remus replied. His eyes were still glued to the witch.

"Oh, for fucks sake! Snap out of it!" Sirius complained. "If I didn't know better, I would think you have never seen a woman before!" He walked away to get himself a cold beer

"Remus," Newt snapped his fingers in front of the man's eyes.

Remus turned with an annoyed low growl, his canines peeking. "What?!"

"Are you attracted to Ianthe at all?" Newt asked with genuine curiosity.

Remus looked away from Tonks to find that Ianthe was indeed there. "Huh? I didn't even realize she was here," Remus sighed.

"How strong is your attraction to Tonks on a scale from 1 to 10?"

"Do I really need to answer that?"

"This is for research purposes, not for gossip, Lupin," Newt reminded him.

Remus pulled his hair in desperation. Why the hell did I not sense Inthe? Why can't I be attracted to her? At least, she's my age… And we're not related. "Newt, I know that! But I am a married man. I don't feel okay talking about this, even in theory."

"I still need a number," Scamander insisted, his magic feather paint pointing at Lupin.

"Twenty," Remus replied with shame.

"Has your attraction for your husband diminished in the last few days?"

"What?! No, of course not."

Scamander just stared at him. "So you are equally attracted to Sirius?"

"As I have always been."

"A twenty?" Newt asked.

"A ten out of ten… Bloody hell. This is wrong. This is VERY wrong. Tell me that there is something you have come up with that can chemically castrate me at least during the mating period," Remus pleaded.

"No. Not yet. We are still working on it. We have seen some promising updates from Lady Prince, but it's still deadly as of now. By the way, we are running out of blood samples to test potions against," Newt replied.

Remus growled before he could stop himself. He hated feeling like a lab rat. "Fine."

"You should go talk to your man. He looked hurt before when you were… staring at Tonks. I am not good at reading people. Heaven knows I still don't know how I managed to marry my Tina, but if I can tell… It has to be obvious to others," Scamander shrugged. "I will set up in the terrace to draw your blood and examine you."

Remus walked towards the house feeling less dazed the more distance there was between him and Tonks. Sirius was leaning against the counter, looking towards the pool in the backyard. He sighed. Remus knew his husband knew he was there. They could always feel each other, but since their senses were particularly heightened this month, it was almost as if they were hyperaware of each breath, each heartbeat, each pained grimace.

"I'm sorry, love," Remus stepped towards Sirius, who raised his hand in a stop gesture.

"Don't. I can't stand it. I know you have little control over the animal inside. However, I would appreciate it if -for my sake- you could at least make sure I leave before you gawk at OUR niece!" Sirius snapped and slammed the empty glass bottle into the recycling bins that Emma had insisted they kept on the island.

"Do you think I like this?! I hate this every it as much as you do!" Remus growled back.

"That's bullshit!" Sirius turned, and Remus stopped midmotion. His husband wasn't furious. He was heartbroken.

"W-What do you mean?" he whispered.

"You DON'T hate it as much as I do! I fell in love with a faithful man, a loyal man… a man I never doubted who never made me feel jealous or insecure. But now that your wolf is straight, every time you look at her like that, I see a person I don't know. I see someone predatorial that I don't like. I see someone who would cheat on me at the drop of a pair of panties… and that terrifies me because if you were to leave me, I wouldn't be able to go on without you," Sirius' head hung low.

Remus's heart constricted, and he felt like his brain had been electrocuted. His marriage was in danger. He wouldn't have it. Suddenly, it clicked. Remus was biologically hyperfocused on the sexual side of Tonks. His wolf somehow felt it knew she would be an ideal mate for him… that their sexualities would match, and yes, she was a gorgeous young woman. But Sirius? Sirius Black was the love of his life. They shared everything: their past, their losses, their present, their home, their mindsets, beliefs, and sexuality. Remus swallowed thickly as Tonk's pheromones got closer.

No. I love my husband, and I only want him, he thought. The infuriating voice in his head replied, You want her too, and you know it. Remus' rational side growled: I would want to eat all the chocolate in the world without gaining any weight too! But I don't do that! And I won't do this either!

"Sirius… Love," Remus pulled his husband into a hug, turning Sirius to face him. "I will not allow my body to rule my actions. I am sorry I have made you doubt my feelings for you. You are my husband, my life partner, my home, my family. There is nothing, no one on Earth that could take your place."

"Until your hormones get the best of you," Sirius sniffled against Remus's shoulder.

"No. I just had a realization that may sound stupid, but if I can stop myself in all my chocoholic glory from eating Honeyduke's entire stock, I will do the same with my physical attraction to Tonks. You and I, love, we share everything. She is beautiful, yes, but we have very little in common; the age gap is huge, we would have nothing to talk about. You? Other than being the most handsome man… You and I share a history, a generation, a life plan, a family, a routine, a set of values and morals, a future," Remus kissed Sirius deeply.

"Don't say things you don't mean."

"Oh, I mean it. I want no future if you aren't in it," Remus said this looking deep into his husband's eyes. "10 minutes of pleasure will not make me jeopardize that."

Sirius chuckled, "You are not giving yourself enough credit. I would wager 20 minutes at least…."

Remus chuckled back. "Because we like tantric sex, who knows what she's into…."

The married couple shared a look, a blush, and simultaneously said, "Nevermind, I don't want to know."

This made the two start laughing until their sides hurt.

"Ugh, don't show off your gross love in front of those of us who aren't lucky," Ianthe groaned as she walked into the kitchen.

Sirius stopped laughing and looked at her up and down. She was wearing clothes that had to be Emma's. Ianthe had never exposed so much of herself, "Well, you got legs for miles, gorgeous," he winked.

"I was warned it would be hot here, but this is really hell," Ianthe fanned herself with an empty platter.

"At least it's purgatory," Tonks agreed, walking in. "We need something cold right away,"

Remus' nostrils flared, his face flushed, and Sirius put a restraining arm around his husband's neck.

"What the fuck are you doing out of the box?" Sirius snapped at his niece. She was wearing short that looked like they were painted on. Her t-shirt was clinging to her curves from how much she had sweated. Her pheromones were everywhere, as were Ianthe's.

"We decided exposure therapy could work, and we were melting out there," Tonks replied, slightly miffed at Sirius' tone.

"He doesn't need this right now! Do you have no sense of self-preservation? You think you can handle him, but you don't. He could split you in half!" Sirius growled, tightening his hold as he felt Remus tense up and his eyes zero in on Tonks.

"What is that supposed to mean? Do you think I would willingly sleep with your husband?! Your husband who happens to be my UNCLE!"

"Whoa! Enough!" Ianthe stepped in between the couple and the younger woman. "I am sure that Sirius did not mean to imply you are easy or that his husband is a rapist," she narrowed her eyes at Sirius, who blushed furiously and shook his head rapidly. "Didn't think so… Now, Newt needs you outside. He wants to record your reactions to us. Now, Sirius, I am trying not to be offended that you don't find me attractive, for I will have you know that such a reaction is rare. I am single out of choice," Ianthe said with a slight chuckle. She was trying to diffuse the tension. Tonks looked ready to snap at her uncles.

"What? Who said I don't find you attractive? You are stunning. But I have always been bi. The difference is that I am used to pushing back my base reaction to your pheromones because I have years upon years of practice doing just that," Sirius responded, looking down in embarrassment.

"Good. You should share your technique with your husband. Let's go do what Newt wants. Tonks and I need to leave before night falls. As you know, tonight is the most dangerous," Ianthe looked at Remus meaningfully.

Newt came in and looked at the married couple. "Were you drinking alcohol?" the man asked with a frown.

"I was. Just a muggle beer, 4% alcohol. I'm a big boy; I can handle that," Sirius replied.

Newt placed his hands on his waist, the way Emma did when she was crossed, "Well, obviously. But it tampers with my results. Stay sober on the day of testing and the day before. Once I take your samples, you can get smashed for all I care."

"Smashed?" Ianthe lifted a brow. "My sweet Newt, you are spending way too much time with these reprobates."

"Hey!" Remus complained. Sirius had loosened his hold by now.

"These reprobates we adore… but still," Ianthe winked at Remus, who seemed less upset.

Tonks pulled her hair up in a ponytail. "Let's do this. I want to go home."

The samples were labeled and placed inside a muggle icebox for Tonks and Ianthe to take back to Newt's office in the hospital.

"Just so you know, uncle Remus. I am dating someone, so I wouldn't be involved with you anyways. Just saying that in case it helps you find my personality, my age, or my tastes more repelling," she whisper shouted in Remus' ear as she sauntered towards the glass box.

Remus felt his very magical core get furious, "Who the hell is she dating?" he asked Sirius.

"I don't know. But they better be treating Nymph right, or as soon as mating season is out, we will go hunting."

Remus nodded. Despite his animal's attraction, he was over the moon to realize that this was the uncle in him, not the man in him that was feeling overprotective. Ianthe hugged the two men without warning.

"I know you think Remus would split her, but I can handle him… and you… Just saying," Ianthe winked and spanked them both once, making them jump and rub their bottom.

"Oh, woman, you are evil incarnate! So evil! Such a tease!" Sirius groaned jokingly.

"Who says I am teasing? I know I can handle you, but I doubt you can handle me," Ianthe smiled and blew them both a kiss. She walked to the box and closed the entrance behind her.

Tonks snapped at her, "What was that?"

"Just getting them started so they can have a good night," Ianthe shrugged.

"Fuck. I agree. You are evil."

"They need to fuck each other stupid. You know that there are no pheromones on Earth that top having mind-blowing sex with the person you love and trust most in the world," Ianthe said nonchalantly.

"No, I don't know that."

"Oh, sorry… I thought you and Bill were-"

"Nope."

"Why?" Tonks frowned.

"I could be his mother, but I have eyes and hot damn!" Ianthe laughed.

Tonks blushed.

"Were you lying?"

"Huh?"

"You said you were dating someone," Ianthe questioned her.

The elves apparated them away.

"I am not. It just hurts, you know. I was in love with Remus once," Tonks shrugged.

"I know. I am sorry about that… But what is wrong with Bill? I see the way he looks at you," Ianthe commented.

"Bad idea. We work together."

"Hmm, and what about Elloise?"

"We work together."

"You need a new job!" Ianthe laughed. "I am going to need to get some capable people like you on payroll soon. McGonagall will hate me, but I have to look out for my business. If you are not working with them, you may find yourself leaning more towards one of them… Or maybe both, I don't know," Ianthe wiggled her brows.

Tonks stammered, "Where was this teasing goddess all my teen years?"

"Being age-appropriate around all the minors in the house," Ianthe shrugged.

"Shame. It would have been fun to see all parents awkward and uncomfortable," Tonks replied. They exited the box and transfigured their clothes to fit the new weather and altitude. "I appreciate you being open about this, but I am not a polyamorous type of person. I don't share well," she added with a smile.

"Good. It's safer for you. But get out there, have some fun."

"I didn't expect you to encourage… this," Tonks said pensively.

"Well, my daughter is bi, and she has never been shy. I keep telling her to have fun... I only had one serious boyfriend, my husband. Sometimes I wish I would have fooled around a bit more when I was young."

"You ARE young," Nymph blinked repeatedly. "You are young and a drop-dead gorgeous woman," Tonks looked at Ianthe up and down and grabbed her hand to twirl her around.

"Thank you. You have good taste," Ianthe laughed.

"You should put yourself back out there. I guarantee you that, within a week, you will have men swarming you as far as the eye can see," Nymph smiled.

Ianthe saw Martin smiling sweetly at her inside her head. No. Snap out of it. It will never happen! Ugh, I hate the Catholic Church and their damn celibacy rules!

"I can set you up with Kingsley," Tonks went on.

"The chocolate god of thunder Auror you work with?" Ianthe said this out loud without meaning to.

Tonks' jaw was hanging, "The what?!"

Ianthe blushed furiously, "Nothing. Don't make me obliviate you, Tonks," she said in a warning tone.

Tonks laughed. "Obliviate what? I heard nothing,"

"That's a good girl," Ianthe replied, satisfied.

"I'll owl you the deets!" Tonks hugged Ianthe and stepped away to apparate home.

Ianthe apparated to her office, only to find Martin waiting for her. Bloody hell! she thought. Not now! Her coherent thoughts vanished when he jumped off the chair and hugged her tightly against him.

"Weren't you back in Brazil?"

"Yes, but I asked his holiness for a leave of absence."

"Why?" she asked relishing in his hug.

"Because I am not so sure I can keep all my vows anymore," he replied, looking at her with smoldering intensity.

"Why?" Ianthe asked again.

"Ianthe I-" they were less than an inch apart, sharing the same breath when a loud thud made them jump apart.

"Maman!" Astoria rushed into the room from the floo. "It's true! You are here!"

The little girl jumped into Martin's arms. He hugged her tenderly. Martin loved her girls. "Monkey!"

"I missed you, Martin!"

"I missed you too, monkey!" he replied, putting her down.

"I have so much to tell you! You are invited to dinner at the Dugards. There's an alliance meeting," the girl pulled him to the fireplace.

Ianthe cleared her throat.

"Oh! Hi mom!" Astoria blushed and waved at her mom.

"Hi, daughter. Go ahead, I need to lock up."

Ianthe had to stay still and breathe for several minutes before she felt composed enough to go face the family.

A/N: Thank you for reading! Happy Halloween to those of you celebrating. Stay safe and healthy. Just an FYI, updates will take longer because I am currently in the first month of a new job while still working at the university (until the end of the semester). I am also taking classes so life is hectic, to say the least. I appreciate your patience. I have some older things that I wrote and never posted, so those may still go up. -Lux-