A/N: Ok ok, I have no excuse for such a wait in this fic, it is absolutely disgusting. The only thing I can offer is that I tried to get the next ball in to this chapter and it just wasn't working. I can only apologise for the delay and thank you all so much for reading and sticking by this story.
Now, we finally meet Theodore Nott Snr and we have a bit of Harry!Remus bonding, so enough of the words and on with the fic!
Warning: Language, mentions of, and, light slash!
Disclaimer: I am not J.K but this story is mine.
Parsel
Chapter 46:
The Dark Lord wasn't even the slightest bit surprised when he swept in to Theodore's lounge to see drinks laid out and his oldest friend browsing the paper waiting for him to arrive. He grabbed the tea offered and took a slow drink once he had sat in the chair he had deemed his own, his lips quirking at the perfectly made beverage.
"Last night was certainly a spectacle, if the rumours are to be believed." Theodore commented, not looking up from his paper.
"Come now, Theodore," The Dark Lord began, casting a side glance as his friend, "Do not tell me that you have sunken to listening to idle gossip."
Theodore finally put down his paper to give the Dark Lord an unimpressed looked at the jab, which only served to make the man chuckle.
"Your humour is particularly bright this morning, Marvolo," He threw back and Marvolo smirked.
"Yes. Last night's opening ball was particularly pleasing."
"Oh? Something I would be disappointed not to witness?" Theodore wondered.
"Most definitely." Marvolo agreed instantly, "It was quite the moment."
"Then please, do share." Theodore encouraged, "I wish to know of the McKinnon and Prewett arrivals."
"They did have a major part to play in last night's happenings." Marvolo told him, "Nearly everyone was waiting to see who they were and to know where they stood given the current political shifting. All the balls have been pre-cast with the Act of Silence."
"You already knew who they were." Theodore stated, knowing it was true even when Marvolo made no move to confirm his words.
"Of course, another many were interested in hearing about since his surprise appearance at the Malfoy Solstice ball."
"Yes, the Lord Potter-Black." Theodore murmured, "And if your descriptions of him are accurate then he would have had a plan to make an impact on this ball."
"Oh he intended to make an impact," Marvolo muttered under his breath, smirking when Theodore raised a questioning eyebrow. "When Harry was announced, he wasn't alone."
"He has a partner?" Theodore said in surprise, and something vicious flashed across his friends face before it was replaced with a marble-like calm – an action that told Theodore that the thought of Potter-Black with a partner sent rage through him. They had known each other for nearly sixty years, friends for over fifty, he knew the man's expressions and that amount of calm usually only came out when Marvolo was speaking with Dumbledore.
"Absolutely not," The Dark Lord's sharp words unnecessarily confirmed his thoughts.
"With company then," The swift change of subject was obviously appreciated as the other man's expression settled back in to an amused smirk.
"Yes, of the most interesting kind."
The slight hint was not missed on Theodore and his found his eyes widening slightly as he regarded his friend.
"Surely not Prewett and McKinnon." He said in disbelief and Marvolo's smirk stretched.
"But of course,"
"How is that even possible?" Theodore demanded, "No one has heard anything about them. They have abstained from all voting and not even businesses seem to have had any purchases or inquiries from them."
"Presenting: The Most Honourable, Marquis Harry James, Lord to the Noble and Most Ancient Houses of Potter and Black. In the company of: The Most Honourable, Marquis Ronald Billius, Lord to the Noble and Most Ancient House of Prewitt, and The Most Honourable, Marchioness Hermione Jean, Lady to the Noble and Most Ancient House of McKinnon." Marvolo repeated the announcement from the previous mind and watched as it sank in to his oldest friend's mind.
Theodore froze when he heard those names, his mind instantly connecting them from the tales his grandson as regaled to him, but it just wasn't possible. And then he blinked, the dubbed 'Golden Trio' attending the dark/neutral ball together, as a company, an image of complete unity; Theodore shook his head.
"Now that is an entrance." He declared and Marvolo's smirk had stretched to the point where he was outright grinning.
"The entire room went silent and just stared at them. Harry in the front with Prewett and McKinnon marking his right and left in a daring black, crimson, white and gold."
"I am truly envious that I was not in attendance." Theodore admitted.
"It was glorious, and even I will admit I did not expect him to arrive thus so." Marvolo told him, "And it made an impact."
"No doubt,"
"Yes, many were very surprised and it took them some time to arrive to our circle, but when they did they were the centre of conversation."
"I assume their thinking likens to Potter-Black."
"They are at the very centre of his network. The stories of the 'Golden Trio' are correct, the only difference is they are not so golden."
"Do they intend to enter the Wizengamot?" Theodore asked, "The three of them together would be a force."
"Even more so when you consider that the House Longbottom will honour it's allegiance with House Potter."
"They gained favour with Augusta Longbottom? Over Dumbledore?"
"No, but Heir Longbottom is in Harry's group and doesn't appear to appreciate the illegal withholding of his Heir and Lordship."
"Such times I seem to miss." Theodore bemoaned and Marvolo chuckled.
"Not everyone maintained pleasant surprise at the reveal of our newcomers." Marvolo informed him.
"Oh?"
"Yes, and something I do wish to speak with you over."
"I see," Theodore's voice cooled and his expression set, knowing instantly who had broken the usual decorum, "Is there anything permanent?"
"It was… borderline." Marvolo said slowly, making Theodore tense slightly.
"Do please explain plainly."
"I have told you, of course, of Harry's rather obsessive protectiveness of his friends."
"Yes, he fractured his spine the last time."
"Izar nearly called Lady McKinnon a Mudblood."
The room was suddenly very still and Theodore processed what he had been told, he knew his son was foolish and he knew, from Marvolo's unspoken words, the only reason Potter-Black hadn't moved against his son was because of his friendship with the Dark Lord. But he did not believe that Izar would be downright stupid. Good Merlin, not only was his slur obviously incorrect as she was the Lady McKinnon but he was right in front of someone who had a lot more power than his own.
"The consequences?"
"A final warning, I believe. This was an outright move, Greengrass, Malfoy, Zabini, Lovegood, McKinnon, Prewett and I were all present."
"The Lady Herself," Theodore muttered, "Do you know how it will ripple should he act."
"It would depend on House Nott clauses."
"Ah,"
"I do believe you should consider the possibility of retaking your title if it is an option." Marvolo said to him.
"Do you think it necessary?"
"I believe, and Harry agrees, that it would be highly beneficial should you become, once again, the Lord Nott."
"I stepped down sixteen years ago for a reason," Theodore pointed out.
"Yes, I know."
"I will have things to consider of course,"
"Do as you wish, I am merely offering our thoughts." Marvolo waved off, "Harry pointed out that, though a break you have had, you will be one of the oldest most respected Lords within the Wizengamot halls."
"I shall speak with my son while I look in to the matter."
"Very well," Marvolo allowed, "Though I can no longer promise his safety."
"I understand,"
"No matter," Marvolo decided, "There were many other things discussed last night, one being the revival of the Rosier House."
"Oh, but it is a patriarchal line."
"Yes, but the Lord Prewett pointed out that Lucius' son would be eligible to take the title."
"So he would, and it would give us another seat in our favour."
"I believe Lucius and Narcissa are discussing whether or not to grant it."
"It should be a simple decision. Merlin knows Draconis has had more than enough training for it, even I did not teach my Theodore as much as Lucius taught his son."
"You are correct, and I have seen some of his legal work first hand; he is very well learned in the art. He would do well within the ministry." Marvolo admitted.
"No doubt he is considering it." Theodore said, "Should he decide to include the Rosier House, it would be the perfect timing. With Dumbledore's recent dethroning…"
The smile that came to the Dark Lord's face was equal amounts pleased and malicious, and a low chuckle escaped him.
"That was a true masterpiece,"
"And her information is not fictional. Yes, it is written leadingly, brilliantly so, but it cannot actively be disputed." Theodore said admiringly.
"It makes it all the more beautiful." Marvolo agreed.
"Do you know her source?"
"Of course,"
"It's Potter-Black, isn't it?" Theodore said, a hint of a sigh in his voice and Marvolo smirked.
"I have warned you that impossible does not work for him."
"Yes, I understand your frustrations." Theodore said with a wry smirk, "At least it is beneficial to our cause."
"Thankfully. I often wonder what would have happened should Harry be as he is but against us."
"It is an oddly chilling thought." Theodore answered slowly, "There are many of our main players who have very damming secrets and if Potter-Black can dig out Dumbledore's past, I highly doubt he would struggle with some of ours."
"I am glad we do not have to witness it. They are a dangerously efficient team."
"Do they have upcoming plans?"
"I know they have a plan for the Wizengamot should they get there, but not details as to what."
"He is playing it close to the chest?" Theodore wondered and Marvolo nearly snorted.
"No, he likes playing games."
"I see,"
Marvolo did not look the slightest bit impressed with his friend's amusement but he didn't huff at all, at least that was what he was telling himself.
"As it is, they are settling for their plans for the Wizengamot and writing out laws for when it is possible for them to be passed."
"How goes the infiltration?"
"It is gaining speed since Dumbledore's recent drop in popularity, but legal work is always much slower."
"Should Dumbledore's decline continue it would only be a benefit to us, and something very much appreciated."
"It would depend on the state within the Wizengamot as to if that is possible." Marvolo pointed out, "Dumbledore will be clutching that position, as well as his international platform."
"Which may not be his to clutch soon," Theodore hinted and Marvolo looked at him sharply.
"Oh?"
"Yes. The recent discord over such endangerment of the next generation stretched beyond our borders and it has not been well received, especially when there was evidence presented confirming the paper's accusations."
"Where would they get the evidence?" Marvolo wondered.
"I do not know. I only received word on it this morning. They broke for Yule and only yesterday did they analyse the authenticity. With it proven there are some very unhappy people raising their voices, and it might not only be the lead position he may lose." Theodore explained.
"This is very interesting indeed." Marvolo mused, "I shall have to speak with Harry to see if he passed it along, though I doubt it. And Lucius would have informed me."
"Should that happen then there would be more shifting within the ministry, especially if Hadrian's Vote goes through."
"There are too many variables to be able to predict an outcome." Marvolo sighed, "It is as frustrating as it is pleasing. The mess that is the ministry will give more opportunities for ours to slip through, but it could also lead to Dumbledore slipping back in to power through his people."
"It is precarious, but we do hold current favour."
"Do you still hold your contacts within Selwyn's court?" Marvolo asked him and Theodore raised an eyebrow.
"You have heard whispers of his new bill?"
"Harry can lip read, but we didn't get much,"
"I am afraid I do not have any details to offer. Whatever it is, Selwyn is keeping it very close to his chest."
"How is he to gain support?"
"I believe that he intends to surprise people, therefore gaining the first thought that comes to mind." Theodore answered and Marvolo frowned.
"That is unnecessarily risky,"
"Yes, and very stupid."
"Incredibly. But he does not know the newcomers actual ideas, so he could be making sure they do not block him." Marvolo mused, "Which would make sense, of course, if it is on what Harry believes."
"Oh?"
"Creatures, specifically werewolves."
"If it is against them Selwyn won't have a hope." Theodore said immediately, "Potter-Black has enough power to make it suicide to back."
"It should be interesting. We may gain insight tomorrow at the Zabini ball, they are allied I believe."
"Ah yes, Zabini is going to sink sooner or later." Theodore noted, "It is a bad allegiance unless he revives his House."
"I believe Harry wants the Heir to take over soon."
"Also part of his group?"
"Yes, his mother taught him well."
"Ah," Theodore smirked, "If he is with Potter-Black, should he take over it would bring yet another line in to his web and a straight line in to the neutral party."
"He will have a tie in each. With the Potter-Longbottom allegiance waiting for renewal, they will, once again, become the backbone of the light side."
"Only they won't be light and it could cripple them." Theodore realised pleased, "He's very clever."
"He is rather brilliant, isn't he?" Marvolo said fondly, and Theodore rolled his eyes. He was waiting for the day to arrive for Marvolo to inform him that he was finally going to marry and settle down, it would happen soon and there would be a Lord Consort should Potter-Black accept – not that Theodore could say he wouldn't, the other Lord was obviously equally enamoured with his Lord. The best thing about Potter-Black was that he wasn't some sycophant after his next fix of power, he had much of his own, he was wicked smart and he held Marvolo's interest like Theodore had never seen before; it was actually quite incredible.
"Enough of the politics," Theodore decided, ignoring Marvolo's raised eyebrow, "How was your Yuletide celebrations?"
"Honestly Theodore, we are grown men," Marvolo sighed.
"You did not receive anything of note?"
"Now that you mention it…" Marvolo relented, without any actual fight, "Lucius' son presented me with a customised potion that will give me selective mage sight."
"Politics and potions, Lucius will be insufferable." Theodore jested and Marvolo smirked.
"Save your pity for the Ladies, Narcissa will be positively vicious."
They shared a laugh and Theodore called for a light snack and more drinks, Marvolo nodded in thanks and grabbed a shortbread biscuit he was partial to.
"What did Potter-Black surprise you with?" Theodore inquired and blinked when an incredibly soft look overcame his friend's face, he had never seen such a look, not in the fifty odd years he had known him.
"He got me a bottle of scotch whisky."
Theodore looked at him startled.
"Scotch?" He repeated, wondering why it had gained such a reaction; he sent the man scotch every birthday. It must have been a rare one. "What one?"
"A Macallan,"
"Very nice choice," Theodore allowed, knowing the brand well. They were quite pricey, but they were a beautiful blend, "What year? The '84 is quite pleasant, but the '68 is astounding."
"The 1926," Marvolo answered and Theodore stilled, turning slowly to look at his friend in disbelief.
"Excuse me?"
"You can imagine my surprise when I opened his gift and saw the year and the verification," Marvolo said somewhat wryly.
"That's one of the rarest and most expensive scotches in the world. How did he even get it?"
"I have no idea, he only said he bought it because of the year," Marvolo said and Theodore was about to ask when he realised the significance of 1926; the wedding would definitely be going ahead.
"Did yours appeal to him?" Theodore questioned, and Marvolo smirked.
"Harry did tell me he would kill for an Ancient Elven blade."
"Sweet Circe!" Theodore exclaimed, "The pair of you are as bad as the other."
"We merely know each other's tastes." Marvolo brushed off and Theodore rolled his eyes.
"You are not wrong," Theodore muttered, "Where is the Lord Potter-Black? You have yet to introduce us."
"I had planned on doing so today," Marvolo admitted, "However, the Lord Greengrass revealed that Dumbledore personally gave evidence for the late Lord Black to be put in to Azkaban without a trial and that it would be impossible to clear his name without hard evidence. I suggested he visit his uncle."
"I do still find it hard to believe that the Heir to a Noble and Most Ancient House was thrown in to that place without a trial. If Arcturus was still alive and well he would have torn them all to the ground." Theodore said with a shudder.
"Nothing was ever uncovered as to how he died, nor to why he withdrew." Marvolo mused. "But Sirius Black is a very sore subject with Harry, it is best he be with his uncle else he decided to do something potentially stupid."
"Dumbledore does bring the worst of ourselves out." Theodore agreed, "I shall have to meet him soon instead."
"Most definitely. You will find it all but impossible not to like him." Marvolo assured. Theodore withheld the fact that he already liked the teen because he made his oldest friend happier than ever before, he knew the man would definitely not appreciate that despite its truthfulness.
"He sounds like an extremely interesting character." Theodore said instead, "I will look forward to it."
"At least you have had warnings to prepare yourself." Marvolo muttered, his put-out tone only half fake and Theodore laughed.
"Come, let us have lunch before retreating to the library. I have recently purchased some very ancient tomes that I believe you find interest in." Theodore decided.
"Let's," Marvolo agreed, "I shall catch you up with my and Remus' latest breakthrough."
"Remus Lupin is another I would like to meet. He appears to be very intelligent." Theodore decided.
"I was surprised by how much so," Marvolo allowed, "I shall speak to Harry. Until then, the books await."
Theodore smiled at his friend's enthusiasm and led them out, reading and discussing new works sounded like a good way to spend the rest of the day.
Harry was very happy to see his uncle the morning after the ball, even more so for the long hug he received when he reached him and if he held on longer than was strictly necessary then Remus didn't seem to mind.
"How you doing, cub?" He asked, dropping a kiss on to his dark hair.
"I've been better." Harry admitted.
"How did the ball go?" He wondered, keeping Harry tucked in to his side as he walked towards his office, "The grins on your friends faces say so much."
Harry couldn't help but laugh at that, he could only imagine their reactions when they got to the sanctuary.
"Yeah, most of the ball was brilliant." Harry agreed, "It couldn't have gone better overall."
"I sense a 'but'," Remus noted and Harry sighed sadly.
"We found out some more information about Siri's case." Harry admitted quietly, the previously felt pain rearing up again, and he wasn't surprised when Remus tensed next to him.
"What about it?" He questioned slowly, sitting next to Harry on his sofa but making sure he was facing his cub.
"We knew that Dumbledore knew he was innocent, and we knew that Crouch and Bagnold threw him in to that hell hole without a trial, but last night we found out that Dumbledore actually gave evidence to state that Siri was responsible." Harry explained, his lips twitching in to a small smile when Moony growled.
"That absolute bastard." He snarled, "Hasn't he done enough?"
"It seems that all the bad comes back to him," Harry agreed, "And it's not only us. Did we ever tell you what it was that sent Tom in to an uncontrollable rage when we went to the Flamel's?"
"No, only that you had to stop him killing Dumbledore with his bare hands." Remus answered and Harry grimaced.
"I won't say too much as it is not my right to speak of it, but Tom had an upbringing quite similar to mine and, just like mine, we found out that Dumbledore was responsible for it." Harry told him, nodding when Remus' eyes went wide in disgusted horror, "He used some truly nasty wards, even one to stop natural healing. If it was anyone else other than Tom, they would have been dead before eleven."
"What is his game?" Remus wondered, "There has to be a plan behind his actions, because they all seem to be somehow connected."
"And that is a problem we have. We don't know. We don't know what he's working towards." Harry sighed, "We believed that he wanted to get rid of the Dark Lord, that it was a huge power play that would crown him the new Merlin, the ultimate power in the world and taking away Tom and me in one sweep. Then we found these wards for when Tom was growing up, which meant that there was something else going on, because I wouldn't have been a subconscious thought back then."
"If we are ever going to be truly free of that man we need to work out what he is working towards." Remus said, "But at the same time, if we are to keep ourselves alive we need to keep working on our projects."
"It's a very dangerous game we're in," Harry stated, "To the point that a minor mistake could cost the lives of so many people. You are right, we do need to work out what Dumbledore actually wants, but at the same time I don't want to find out what he wants only for us to be unable to fight against him."
"So far you are on track for the Wizengamot, yes?" Remus confirmed and Harry nodded.
"Thankfully yes, as long as we keep doing exactly what we are doing." Harry said, "After last night I am sure there are more than a few people who also want us all there, so if something crops up in the ministry are am 80% sure that Lucius or Hadrian will make it go away."
"You seem to have Hadrian Greengrass well on your side," Remus noted, "No mean feat given that not even the Dark Lord will bother him."
"I wouldn't say he was on my side, more that we have shared interests and my thoughts on some ideas mirror his." Harry said to him, "I also think it is because I am not after anything. I just want to talk to him. He is very interesting, and someone who cannot be bought no matter what the price is someone very hard to find these days."
"I don't remember much of him from school, he was in the same year as Lucius in Slytherin, but I know he was fair to all students, no matter their house of blood status." Remus said thoughtfully.
"It does not surprise me."
"Anything else of note happen?" Remus asked, "You've had a grand entrance and lots of information, there couldn't have been much else even at the peak of the seasons."
"Don't count your dragons before they've hatched, uncle Moony." Harry warned playfully, grinning as his eyebrows rose.
"Good Merlin, what did you do?"
"I didn't do anything." Harry defended, but then he smirked, "Nott, on the other hand, was not so fortunate."
"He made a move on someone obviously higher than him during the ball."
"With witnesses." Harry confirmed, "Greengrass, Malfoy, Zabini, Prewett, McKinnon and the Dark Lord were there to hear it."
"That was stupid." Remus stated bluntly.
"I know, and he is lucky that there was witnesses." Harry grumbled, "Should he had spoken when it was merely me, Ron and Hermione, he would be in the hospital right now."
"What did he say?"
"Called Ron 'nothing' and went to call Hermione a Mudblood." Harry bit out, "The bastard is lucky, but no more. Anything else then his time is up."
"I am surprised that you have not yet done anything." Remus admitted, "All of the others have mentioned at least twice that Nott's behaviour is getting worse. You are remarkably like both your father and Sirius in that manner, because they did not stand for insults against their friends or family, well, the Potter Family anyway."
They shared a fond smile at Sirius' well known hatred of his family before Harry looked over at the crackling fire.
"It has been difficult," He admitted, "But I haven't acted more than words because Tom is very close friends with Theodore Nott Snr. He is speaking with him today, and I am hoping that he will be able to convince him to come back as the Lord Nott. If that is possible then he will take over and we shall not have these problems, and I know that Theodore Nott Snr must be a pretty incredible man given Tom's high praise of him."
"That makes sense." Remus said slowly, "I know that Theodore Nott Snr was one of the leading people within the Wizengamot when he sat there, and should he still be there he would be one of the oldest too."
"I know, which is but another reason I wish Tom to convince him to come back." Harry said, a sly smile working its way on to his face, "If he comes back then we have the prime candidate for a new Chief Warlock, I will have to speak with him of course, and make sure he can keep it from Tom until it's in place, but it has been my growing plan."
"That is brilliant, cub." Remus praised, "He would have enough respect from the dark and neutral, and he would have the age and experience."
"Thankfully, the strongest other candidate will be removed if we get there in January." Harry said, "Augusta Longbottom, had she not been bat shit, would have been the next thought of, and if she wasn't in Dumbledore's web then I would probably vote for her – she's rather formidable."
"Yes, she is." Remus agreed, "Badger plans on banishing her, doesn't he?"
"Yep," Harry confirmed cheerfully, "To the Welsh Mountains or something."
"A just punishment."
"Most definitely," Harry said, "I honestly couldn't believe she would do that to her own grandson. I mean, Dumbledore I can understand, but her own blood? No, its beyond me."
"I assume you have plans for both success and failure of the Vote?"
"Oh yeah, but only we know. Tom has no idea what we have planned and I want to keep it that way." Harry said and Remus grinned.
"You just love surprising him."
"I won't even bother to deny it." Harry said with a laugh, "It's very fun, and you have to admit that you also like doing it."
"It's quite satisfying." Remus relented, "I really cannot believe how much things have changed."
"It makes you wonder, doesn't it?" Harry said, "If we have had these potions, spells and charms controlling us, I wonder if mum and dad did?"
"Honestly, cub, I would rather not know. I would rather believe that they went out fighting for something they truly believed in rather than something they had never wanted to fight for." Remus said quietly, "I know they were killed because of the fake prophecy, and I know for a fact that they would not have acted any differently in regards to saving you. But even then, I could not bear to know that they never intended to fight for the light anyway."
"I understand." Harry said, "I have to believe that they knew what they were doing and while I have not made peace with their deaths, I know I will once Dumbledore is gone."
"Yes, I can agree on that." Remus allowed, "Though working with the so called dark also brings forth so much more. The Dark Lord is as he was before the final years of the war, according to Cissa anyway, and that alone is something to marvel."
"He's brilliant, isn't he?" Harry said with a smile, "It's his mind,"
"Yes, I don't know how there can be so much knowledge in one human being." Remus shook his head in amazement, "I was always certain that, given his age and accomplishments despite how much we hate him, Dumbledore was the smartest anyone was ever going to get, but the Dark Lord outstrips him by a significant amount."
"He loves magic." Harry said, "While everyone believes that Tom fears death above all things, I do not think that is true. I think, if it were to come down to it, Tom would rather die than have his magic removed permanently."
"Really?"
"I encased his magic once before, it was when I was trying to stop him from killing Dumbledore. It's a vile trick, the costs can be very high and it cannot be kept up on a permanent basis, but it cuts off the connection between magic and body, like a binding. He felt it and he sounded so desperately scared…" Harry trailed off and shook his head, "If I never have to hear him sound like that again it would still be too much."
"I think I can understand." Remus said after a moment, "I know how to live in the muggle world, but I do not know how to live without feeling my magic within me. Even if it's subconscious its still there, and to have that suddenly taken…"
Remus shuddered as he let the sentence fall, Harry nodded in agreement, he knew he would rather die than have his magic taken; he knew he wouldn't be able to handle it.
"I think that is another reason Tom is so knowledgeable, his adoration of magic made him seek out as much information about it as he could. He still searches now, delighting in anything new about magic." Harry said.
"What had me so surprised is most tend to narrow their field of study." Remus said, "Dumbledore is very smart, but his specialty is transfiguration and I doubt there is anyone alive who could outreach his theoretical knowledge of it, his practical application too really."
"I would say the same with Snape and potions." Harry said.
"Yes, exactly like that. The Dark Lord, on the other hand, didn't bother to specialise, he just went for it all."
"Yeah, Tom doesn't do anything by halves." Harry laughed, "Though, if I were to narrow it down, I would say offensive magic is his specialty."
"I suppose you could say that, because that would incorporate dark arts as well as normal charms, hexes and curses."
"Exactly,"
"I didn't have chance to give you your Yule gift." Remus remembered suddenly, flicking his wand and summoning a neatly wrapped package.
"Did you get mine?" Harry asked, examining the package with excited interest.
"That wasn't a gift, cub," He deadpanned and Harry pouted.
"You deserve a holiday. Where else would you take it than at your very own hidden beach house?" Harry said innocently.
"First of all, it's not a house, it's a mansion." Remus began, giving him a look that told him he didn't buy his innocence, "Secondly, it comes fully furnished and if those two things weren't enough it has its own private beach."
"Well what if you wanted guests? As for the furniture, well you can't stay in an empty house, and why would you want a beach where you can't do exactly what you want?" Harry pointed out reasonably, Remus rolled his eyes but gave him a one armed hug.
"It was lovely, cub." He told him honestly and Harry grinned.
"My turn," Harry carefully tore of the paper and found a somewhat worn brown journal, his eyebrows rose but he flicked it open and felt his breathing stop. He looked up at Remus with wide eyes and the werewolf smiled softly.
"I found it when I went looking for some of the old safe houses, Sirius must have taken it from the cottage." He told him, "It was Lily's idea, she said that it was only right that we all kept a journal of her first pregnancy. She included us all because Sirius pointed out that just because she was having the baby it didn't mean it was only hers, he was adamant that you were all of ours.
"So she set it up, and we were told to write whatever we wanted, though Sirius and James were both warned to be reasonable. Sometimes James would take it with him, and it would be filled with his and Sirius' wonderings about the things they were missing. It goes right up until-," Remus flipped the book to one of the final pages and revealed a picture.
Harry found himself utterly lost for words as he looked down at his father, godfather and honorary uncle all around a hospital bed that his mother was laying on with a tiny baby in her arms. The shock of black hair told Harry that it was him. His father looked like the proudest man on the planet as he shared a high 5 with Sirius, who was smiling wider than anything Harry could remember seeing, and Remus was stood next to Sirius laughing at their antics and seeming looking a little stunned as he cast a look at baby Harry.
But that wasn't what got Harry about the image, his eyes stared at his mother, a mess from giving birth and obviously exhausted and yet she looked absolutely radiant, and she was looking at the baby as if it was her entire world. There was so much love in her eyes, and the utter joy on her face when she looked up at his father was astonishing.
"They were the happiest I have ever seen them when you were born." Remus said to him. "Your father worked himself in to a state when your mother went in to labour. Sirius thought it was hilarious until Lily screamed at him that if he didn't get in the room and help with the birth of his Godson then she would string him up and send him to be stuffed; he all but apparated in to the room. The funny thing was, as soon as he got in there he started panicking more than James."
"Thank you," Harry got out, completely overcome. He carefully closed the journal and held it to his chest as he leaned over to hug his uncle. "This is more than I could have ever wished for."
"I was pleased I was able to find it," Remus said, "They were not able to give it to you, so the least I could do was make sure it got to you."
"I think, when this is all over, I'll finally visit them. I haven't been able to make myself go, not yet. It doesn't feel right."
"I understand, Cub. It took me years before I could go back, when I found out Siri was innocent actually. Your time will come."
"It will. We are slowly working towards it."
"I find myself quite peaceful for the first time in many years. Even though one wrong move could have a horrific outcome, and every week we seem to find out something else Dumbledore has done, I finally feel comfortable in who and what I am."
"I'm glad, uncle Moony," Harry said, "And I'm glad I still have you."
They spent the rest of the morning talking about the Sanctuary and the success of the Yule celebrations before Moony led him down to lunch. Harry was very interested because he had yet to find the time to spend a meal at the sanctuary and he couldn't help but smile brightly as he saw the amount of wolves who were now comfortable eating inside. It was lucky that Peverell Manor was so big and that the dining room was so grand because it was filled with people, but not many could fit in comfortably.
"As you can see, we may have to plan a small renovation." Remus said pleased. "At the moment we are fine because not everyone comes at once and some still do not wish to venture this far in yet."
"It will be possible. This room is on an exterior wall, we can extend outwards without issue." Harry replied, "Even just for comfort. The only problem I can see is where everyone will eat while the goblins are working?"
"I shall speak with Alpha and Moonrise to see what can be arranged, once we have a solution I'll come to you." Remus decided and Harry nodded.
"Perfect."
"Mister Snake!"
Harry looked over at the call and saw Petal waving frantically at him from her mother's lap, Harry grinned.
"I've been summoned." He said and Remus chuckled.
"Come and see me before you go."
"I will, thanks, uncle Moony." Harry hugged him and then weaved his way through the tables and wolves to reach Petal, who wasted no time in launching herself at him.
"Hello, Petal," He greeted, catching her and setting her on his hip. "How are you?"
"Miss Paws teached us about Yule and then Mister Moony let me give my cookie to Lady Magic." She told him in excitement, "The fire got big."
"Is that right?" Harry said, making sure his voice had the right amount of amazement in it, "What was it like?"
"It was 'mazin'!" She exclaimed, "There was so much food!"
"Well I am glad you had fun," He told her, smiling when she nodded her head wildly, "Now, were you about to eat your lunch?"
He cast his eye over to her mother, who was looking amusedly exasperated as she looked at her daughter.
"She spotted you as soon as you walked in, Mister Snake." Freya said to him, "Wouldn't sit still and eat her lunch,"
"But, mama-,"
"Don't you 'but mama' me, you need to eat your vegetables."
"You aren't eating your vegetables?" Harry questioned with wide eyes, "What would Marvolo say?"
"I is eating them!" She assured hurriedly, "I'm going to be as tall as him one day."
"I'll make sure to let him know." Harry said seriously, setting her down on her chair and taking a seat next to her when she pulled him down.
"Are you staying for lunch, Mr Snake?" Freya asked, seeing to Petal's food.
"Yeah, I haven't managed to stay before so I thought I would give it a shot." Harry answered, "How are you finding things?"
"It is wonderful," She said immediately, "Nearly all of our pack are able to come inside for food now, and soon we will all be able to come up."
"That's brilliant," Harry said pleased, "Moony was telling me that we are going to need to expand to fit everyone in."
"Some of us stay within our house that we have within the forest for food. It's always stocked for us but Petal loves coming up to the big house and Alpha is encouraging everyone to come and at least eat one meal a day." Freya explained, "I do not mind either. It is strange, but a good strange."
"I am very glad." Harry said, "I didn't ever think things would work out so well here."
"This place is the best thing to ever happen to us." She told him honesty, "I didn't think I would ever feel safe again, until I got here."
"It is my intention to make it so this place isn't necessary." Harry admitted, "It will never shut, but I want all of you to be able to be part of the magical community as a whole, not hidden away. I want to make it so when the time comes, Petal gets the chance to go to Hogwarts with every other eleven year old."
"That would be a dream,"
Petal demanded Harry's attention back on her and Harry grabbed some of the food from the platters in the middle of the table so he could eat and entertain. He had noticed that his presence was gaining quite a bit of notice, and he was happy to talk to all the wolves who came up to him. Most were just offering their thanks, but others had questions which were answered easily enough. Three of the wolves that came up to him had found themselves bored, now that they weren't running and hiding for their lives they had found lots of spare time on their hands so Harry pointed them in Moony's direction for jobs and told them that if they wanted to learn things then his friends would be willing should they ask; they weren't only teaching cubs. He said goodbye to Freya and Petal when some of Petal's little friends ran over and insisted she go to the playroom with them. Harry checked the time and decided it was time to get back if they were going to be speaking about the ball with Lucius, he also wanted to speak of the upcoming even if they had little to work on. He easily slid through the thinning crowd, spotting Moony sat in a somewhat private corner with Greyback, Ellen and Drew and making his way over.
"Hey, cub." Moony greeted, offering him a seat, "Have fun?"
"Yeah, I was speaking with Freya and Petal."
"They are part of my main pack." Greyback told him, "I have never seen the runt so lively."
"Runt?"
"She was one of the smallest born cubs I have ever seen, and the smallest I've seen survive. Freya and Peirce have been too afraid to mate since, it was obvious that it was Freya's lack of health that caused such conditions." He explained, and Harry grimaced.
"Thankfully no longer an issue."
"Yeah, which we are all grateful for." Drew said, "We ain't spoke since this place was set up."
"I know. Things have been happening."
They shared a laugh at the understatement and Harry shook his head.
"It is good to see you though,"
"Same to you. I gotta say I didn't have much faith come the end but you more than pulled through."
"I understand why you didn't, and if I'm being honest it is only by chance that this happened, but I am glad."
"I've been updated about the old man, you face him soon don't you?" Drew wondered and Harry nodded.
"Just under three weeks from now. That's when things really kick off."
"Oh Merlin, don't remind me, cub." Remus bemoaned and Harry laughed.
"Sorry, but you know it's going to get hot and fast."
"Do you expect problems?" Ellen asked and Harry frowned.
"I wouldn't say expect more like know they are going to happen. It is impossible for us to predict what Dumbledore is going to do when he realises I'm no longer under his control. The only thing we can do is push forward with our plans and hope we can counter what he throws at us." Harry told them. "First on the agenda: get a minister of our choice in office. Once we have that in place we can begin implementing our laws."
"How do you think they will be taken?" Ellen wondered.
"It will have to be dealt with gently. People have been lied to for many years, but I do think many will be swayed when they read and have proof of the truth. Plus, it will still be a punishable crime to infect another person and now we know there is a true way of identifying the biter then there will be no incorrect sentences." Harry answered thoughtfully. "Anyway, we do not need to fret on that yet. What were you all discussing?"
"The renovations." Alpha answered, "I suggested we use the entrance hall if the construction is only going to be a few days, that way everyone can just go around if they want something."
"It could work." Harry allowed, "I'll make an appointment with the goblins as soon as I have some spare time and get them to contact Moony."
"We can easily call a meeting in the courtyard to alert everyone, and goblins hold no ill will to us." Drew pointed out.
"Then it's settled." Harry decided, "Now, I should really get going because I want to pop up and see Ron, Hermione and Neville before I go back. Uncle Moony, I will see you soon."
"Bye, cub. Be careful,"
"You know me!"
"That's what I'm worried about." Remus sighed, pulling him in a hug and dropping a kiss to his messy head, "Don't do anything too mad, if only for my sanity."
"I will try my best." Harry assured, squeezing his uncle before stepping away and turning with a wave. He searched the others out in the library and flashed them a grin when they spotted him.
"Oh Lord Potter-Black how good it is to see you once again," Ron said in the snottiest voice he could manage. Harry snorted and threw himself down on a chair, kicking one leg casually over the arm and slumping down.
"Lord Prewett, this is a surprise." Harry returned in the same tone.
"They have already shown me the memory," Neville said to him, "And just well done for a truly worthy entrance."
"It was definitely one of our best moves to date." Harry agreed. "Last night was intense. How you guys handle it? I didn't get to ask."
"I'm honestly surprised I didn't feel out of place." Ron admitted, "I know we've practiced for it but doing it is a completely different thing."
"I know what you mean." Hermione mused, "I was expecting to feel like I shouldn't be there despite my invitation."
"It was surprisingly fun, too." Ron added, "It was good to get others opinions from them and not rumours."
"And the amount of information that you can collect in those hours is innumerable." Hermione said with a grin.
"Our next ball will be a completely different setting. I do not know what to think." Harry allowed and Ron frowned.
"I do not have high hopes, Blaise didn't paint the best picture." He informed them both.
"Wonderful,"
"I'm off to the MacMillan ball tonight, so tomorrow before you guys go off again I'll share what information I can gather." Neville said, and then he grimaced, "I am really not looking forward to it. Ernie becomes absolutely unbearable at these things."
"I don't envy you." Ron muttered.
"I just wanted to check in and make sure you guys were alright." Harry said, "We can speak more tomorrow when we meet before the ball, I'll come around three."
"We're at my manor again," Hermione reminded him at he got up.
"Ok, see you tomorrow guys. Happy thoughts, Nev."
Harry tossed a wave over his shoulder and vanished in to the shadows, stepping out near the private sitting room of Malfoy Manor and walked in to see all the Malfoys and Tom sat discussing the ball.
"Ah, I was wondering where you had gotten to." Tom said to him with a slight smile. Harry flashed a grin and moved over to sit next to him on the sofa, greeting the Malfoys as he did so.
"I stayed for lunch and discussed renovations with the main wolves." Harry explained, "It's basically sorted now."
"Good. You need not more stress." Tom said.
"Tell me about it." Harry agreed, "I also dropped in on Ron and Hermione before coming back."
Here Lucius gave him such a disdainful look Harry burst out laughing, turning to smother them in Tom's shoulder as the Malfoy Lord looked extremely put out.
"How are Lord Prewett and Lady McKinnon?" Lucius drawled.
"I'm not even sorry," Harry snickered, "I've been planning that for ages."
"Oh, Harry," Narcissa said fondly, "You did indeed cause quite a stir."
"It was one of the greatest things I have ever seen." Draco sighed in relish, "Such a lack of decorum for high-class society."
"Once the shock had worn off I could understand Lord Prewett, but Lady McKinnon…"
"I recommend implementing a mandatory blood test for all muggleborns citing Hermione as the example." Harry said candidly, a smirk curling on to his face at Lucius grimace.
"They fitted in marvellously," Narcissa commented, "Not one social faux-par,"
"Does that really surprise you since you saw my transformation in the summer?" Harry asked and she smiled slightly.
"I do have to admit I was still surprised. The Lord Prewett is rather famous for his terrible manners."
Harry snorted at that, Hermione had beat manners in to Ron with an iron fist and by the time it was their point to learn etiquette Ron wasn't stupid enough to argue.
"I am comfortable in blaming Hermione for that particular transformation," He said with a grin, "She instils fear in to him like no other."
"Lady McKinnon looked beautiful," Narcissa said, "I assume the dress was of your creation."
"Yes, as was Luna's,"
"Naomi was very impressed with Luna's gown. They were both gorgeous creations and caused many whispers within the other ladies."
"Oh and yours did not?" Harry returned slyly, laughing at the pleased smirk that came to Narcissa's face.
"It was the beginning of the season." She replied primly.
"Of course, my mistake."
"The press release of the Yule season is definitely going to be interesting with the new arrivals and your gowns in play. No doubt the other Ladies will see it as a challenge."
"Witch Weekly will be the one doing the fashion spread, won't they?" Harry asked.
"Yes, though it will also appear in Lush – the upper-class version of Witch Weekly, and given the recent political changes I wouldn't be surprised if it appearing in the European equivalents. We will give permission for it to be done."
"Of course, with the Acts nothing can be published without the hosts' permission." Harry remembered.
"Thankfully, we are able to hold all releases of you and yours if necessary." Lucius told him and Harry nodded.
"I hope that is not the case." Harry said, "Especially seeing as we have even more riding on the Wizengamot now."
"I cannot foresee a problem now unless Dumbledore kidnaps you himself. He does not suspect and word cannot get out because of the Act." Lucius pointed out reasonably.
"I know, but we have spent the past four months calculating all of our moves because of Dumbledore. It is hard to think he won't get in the way."
"Given Dumbledore's capacity of appearing where least wanted, it is good to err on the side of caution." Tom put in, and Harry nodded.
"Who knows what the crazy man will think up being out of the castle." Harry said with a shudder.
"Let's not," Draco decided, a look of distaste on his features making Harry chuckled.
"Yeah, its not exactly nice thinking."
"Let's speak, instead, of Hadrian's movement." Lucius suggested, "During our after-dinner discussion he believes he has solidified enough backing to cover his Vote even without your presence. Both Smith and Ogden seem to be on bored, Ogden's allies will come with him but it looks to be the end of the Smith/Diggory alliance, and possibly the Shacklebolt one. I do not know if the Lord is as loyal to Dumbledore as the auror. Plus many in attendance last night would be very happy to see Fudge gone."
"That's good. The ending of the Smith/Diggory alliance is something Ron already planned for, and we are under the assumption that the Lord Shacklebolt is equally loyal to be on the side of caution currently." Harry remarked, "This does release some pressure, however we will not be able to control the aftermath nor the final voting and that's the thing we were worried about. Luna already confirmed the backing to get the Vote accepted."
"There are many things that are going to rely on chance no matter how well we plan them." Draco stated, "Mother and father have agreed to let me take the Rosier Lordship which means even without you we will have eyes in the room."
"Brilliant!" Harry exclaimed, "You are already briefed on what we planned so that gives us more of a chance."
"Thankfully yes." Draco agreed, "Which is good because I haven't found out anything about Selwyn's new bill and one of us needs to be there to hear it if it doesn't come out in the ball."
"Selwyn has not released any details as of yet." Tom said, "None of Theodore's contacts have heard anything."
"How was your morning with the rightful Lord Nott?" Harry asked him interested, completely ignoring Tom's look of amusement at Harry's chosen name for his friend.
"Quite pleasant. He informed me of some interesting news regarding Dumbledore's position within the ICW."
"Oh? What's happened?" Harry questioned.
"The news about the blood quills has spread and evidence has been presented and authenticated to back up the paper's claim. Theodore believes it may lead to his removal from the entire ICW, not just the head." Tom responded and Harry's eyes lit up, but then he frowned.
"How did they get the evidence?"
"That remains the question,"
"I did not send it, I used mine with the governors." Lucius said.
"I haven't had time to send it, nor would I have thought to." Harry admitted, "Nor would I know whose hands to make sure it ended up in."
"How could they have gotten hold of it?" Narcissa asked, "It is not something one can merely pick up."
"Not only that but to send it and make sure it got to the right people without notice they would have to have eyes and ears everywhere…" Draco trailed off with his expression turning to one of understanding and quickly glancing at Harry, who had just gained the exact same look.
"Luna," They said together.
"She causes me great alarm." Lucius muttered with a slight shudder.
"If it was, her initiative was perfect." Tom said with a smirk in Lucius' direction.
"Luna is a delightful girl, if frighteningly knowing." Narcissa spoke with a smile, her husband had told her about the reveal at the meeting. It had surprised her that Luna had known such secrets, but she couldn't bring herself to question it; it was Luna, she just knew.
"I will ask her if it was her, but now that I think about it I cannot doubt it was. No one else has unlimited access to everything I own." Harry said. "Despite whoever sent it, they have the evidence and it won't remain silent for long, especially in the countries that have completely outlawed blood quills."
"So all of the African countries at least." Lucius remarked, "They use bloodstone."
"Dumbledore is going to be very angry." Draco pointed out, "Do you think the ICW will act before the Wizengamot?"
"I don't know when the next meeting is?" Harry said, looking at Tom for an answer.
"February 2nd I believe,"
"Yes, to avoid any seasonal conflicts." Lucius confirmed.
"Unless they call an emergency meeting." Narcissa said, "But that seems very unlikely."
"It would depend on how many people are outraged enough to demand a new leader." Tom said.
"Plus, Dumbledore's main concern is here at the moment. He already has contacts within the countries he wants, and many allies within the ICW. He will be able to talk himself out of things with them, so he may choose to graciously step down." Harry added, "Though I am working on the best case scenario."
"Worst case is he completely loses it and goes for you as he believes he's lost too much control." Draco said brightly and Harry snorted.
"Thanks, Dray."
"Anytime."
"In other news, Neville is attending the MacMillan ball tonight." Harry told them all, grinning at the looks of interest he gained.
"That is interesting." Tom murmured.
"That is basically a direct line in to the light side thinking and their own Yule planning." Lucius said gleefully.
"Exactly, even more so given that House Longbottom will obviously be at the head table."
"I cannot wait to hear what they are saying right now."
"Do you think they will call the Act of Silence?" Draco wondered, but Lucius shook his head.
"I highly doubt it, not McMillan, unless it is specifically requested."
"Even if the Act is called, Neville can still develop our plans around it. He can't speak of the ball nor anything that happened in attendance, but he can direct our movements." Harry pointed out.
"In what sense?" Narcissa asked.
"Well say we plan to raise one of our laws but Neville has heard something at the ball that will be a conflict, he can tell us not to do it he just can't tell us why." Harry explained.
"Very nice loop hole." Tom said with a slight smirk.
"I thought so," Harry agreed.
"The only thing we can do is gather information and wait." Draco said, "Might as well make the most of the break."
"What a great idea." Harry said, stretching out on the sofa and dropping his feet in Tom's lap, much to the man's amusement.
"Are you quite comfortable?" He inquired lightly and Harry pretended to think about it.
"I think so."
Tom rolled his eyes fondly but didn't throw them off. They stayed talking all afternoon, their topics flowing from one scale to another and getting in to debates about magic and politics. Lucius, Draco and Tom got in to some heated chess battles while Narcissa and Harry watched them with amusement and discussed her schedule for her own ball.
When Tom and Lucius started threatening the chess pieces Narcissa deemed it time for dinner. The meal was enjoyable and Harry spent another hour after having drinks because saying his goodnights, Tom said he'd be up soon so Harry left with a wave. He spent the time alone working through his own projects, making notes and attempting a few of the early stages of one of his spells.
Harry had done the exercise before, but he knew from experience that a solid spell base was crucial. So many spells had been known to rupture because the creator never solidified the base. He almost didn't notice Tom's arrival and he wouldn't have it he hadn't glanced at some of his other notes when the man walked past the bed.
"Hey," Harry greeted, grinning at Tom's raised eyebrow.
"What are you doing?" He questioned, indicating the streams of parchment and multiple books that covered the entirety of the bed except where he was sat with his legs crossed.
"Personal projects," Harry answered, "But you can't see them yet," he waved his hand and obscured the words as he realised Tom could actually read parseltongue; that was inconvenient. Tom looked extremely put out and huffed, much to Harry's amusement. He waved his hand again to pile his work up and give Tom a place to sit down, Harry quickly flicked through his work and pulled out a long sheet of parchment before banishing the rest back to his room through his shadows.
"You can look at this one because it's basically finished, I'm working on the final incantation." Harry allowed, holding it up for Tom to take; which he did happily, "It's only an edit, but it's efficient."
Tom removed his robe and shoes and dropped down on to the bed next to Harry, relaxing back and opening his arm so Harry could settle comfortably curled in to him.
"An edited summoning charm?" Tom remarked in surprise, "What made you think it needed editing?"
"It was just after the first task when I got the idea, but I never started it until last year and I put it aside in favour of other things until this year." Harry said, "I thought it was ridiculous that I had to wait for my objects to fly through the air to get to me. I mean, first of all, you've no guarantee it has worked until it gets to you with long distance. Secondly, the charm can fail half way if your focus wavers or something interrupts the spell, and finally, who knows what your items are going to hit on their way to you?"
"All valid points," Tom agreed, as he read through the parchment, "Why have you got the breakdown for apparation here?"
"Oh, because my concept was to make the summoned item appear directly before you, but my first ideas kept falling flat when it wasn't items within the same room. I decided to break down the apparation process because not only can you obviously apparate to places outside the same room as you are in but you can go incredibly long distances."
"I see, so you apply the same concept but reverse the magical direction." Tom said and Harry nodded.
"Yes. As apparation is silent and internal, it had to be turned inside out for lack of a better term, which is why I incorporated its concepts in to the charm and not the other way around."
"That makes sense. Doing it the other way would create possible lethal results."
"Yeah, I didn't fancy accidently summoning something and having it appear in my stomach."
"I cannot imagine why," Tom responded dryly.
"Anyway, it's basically finished. It'll be done by the time we're back at the castle." Harry said.
"I have no doubt." Tom told him, banishing the sheet to dresser on the other side of the room.
"So, you never did finish saying about your visit to the rightful Lord Nott's residence." Harry prodded.
"The rightful Lord Nott as you have so quaintly named him is looking in to the Nott clauses." Tom informed him and Harry turned to look at him in delight.
"Really? That's brilliant!"
"He has not given a guarantee, but he is furious with his son even without using the direct words."
"Thank Merlin for that. We both know Nott will screw up again which means we are getting a decent Lord in replacement." Harry said brightly "I wonder if it will be before or after the Wizengamot."
"I cannot answer, it depends on Izar's foolishness."
"I'll have to add this to our notes." Harry decided, settling back down, "You'll have to introduce us soon, Tom, he sounds very interesting."
"Yes, I do intend to. Preferably before the holidays are over."
"That would be good. Maybe after the Malfoy ball, that way all the stress will be gone for the final few days." Harry suggested.
"That sounds reasonable. I shall write to Theodore." Tom agreed.
"Good. Now, we have an incredibly boring ball to attend tomorrow night, and I believe falling asleep is frowned upon." Harry said, yawning, "Venom has already painted a bad picture,"
"Delightful," Tom sighed, waving his wand to change his clothes in to sleepwear, "At least it is a change in circle."
"That's what I am clutching at," Harry said, trying to get comfortable. He rolled on to his other side and while the position was comfortable something wasn't right. He reached behind him blindly to grab Tom's arm and pull slightly, Harry heard the man huff a soft laugh and move so his arm was around Harry's waist holding him against his chest.
"You are terrible." Tom informed him lowly, making Harry smile even has his eyes fluttered shut.
"I know."
So there we have it. A small respite before the next ball and I promise I will get working on it ASAP. Please let me know what you think.
Thanks guys!
Jess*