See first chapter for disclaimers/warnings/summaries. Link to TBDH Forum is in my profile. This chapter was betaed by the wonderful brissygirl to provide a smoother reading experience. All remaining mistakes are my own.
RECAP:Harry is rescued by an Air Elemental by the name of Lewis Peverell, who turns out to be his great-great uncle on the Potter side of the family. Lewis helps Harry return in time for the introduction when the sudden change in location and ambient magic triggers Harry's second dragon transformation for the day. He presents in his dragon form only to find himself able to transform back after Quinn and Kyle arrive to help him. Together, they decide to stay and watch the royal introductions with the Deveraines.
"Lewis, you're back!" Harry greeted his weary relative with a welcoming smile. He was glad that Lewis had decided to stay, in spite of the Deveraine's frosty welcome. It warmed him inside to think that the man was willing to put up with it, for his sake. There were few people that would. Very few. Harry counted it as a positive thing. "What's wrong?"
The taller man offered a tired smile, a few wrinkles showing at the corners of his eyes. "Long day. Short tempers." He said, simply. "You look better, how are you feeling?" He reached out to gently squeeze Harry's shoulder, allowing his hand to drop back to his side at a restless twitch from Theo. It was clear to see that the young Alpha still did not trust him for whatever reason and he had no intention of putting their newly formed triad through any more stress. They all looked quite exhausted. He wondered what they had been through, but resolved to ask Harry some other time.
"Feeling sick of hearing that question." Harry answered, honestly. He looked away, a moment later. "I didn't think you'd come back."
Lewis's eyebrows arched clear to his hairline. "Why not? I said I would. It's only a matter of formality that—oh." He rested a hand on Harry's shoulder and waited until the younger man looked at him. "I do not make idle promises," he said, quietly. "If I cannot make it, I will be sure to let you know ahead of time." He squeezed gently. "I can't stay long, because they'll have another round of introductions again, but I'll stay as long as I can."
Harry couldn't stop himself from smiling. He ignored Theo's mild scowl and Charlie elbowing Theo. Instead, he promptly pulled Lewis over to their corner of the Deveraine seating and took a seat beside them. He was definitely looking forward to knowing him better.
Maybe.
Maybe for dinner.
Maybe for breakfast.
Maybe just to visit.
Because maybe, Lewis might care.
Maybe.
Dyshoka's scolding did not last for much longer, but it was a very contrite Quinn and Kyle who returned to join Harry and his, mixing up the seating until Harry found himself with Quinn on his right and Kyle on his left. It displaced Lewis to the far end of the aisle, on the other side of Emily, who sat on Kyle's other side.
Neither Theo or Charlie objected and Harry bit back his own objections to that, as well as having a Healer on one side and a Medic on the other. Instead, he chose to think of the fact that Quinn sat in such a way that their arms touched—to maintain his mental connection, he'd said—and Kyle had managed to coax Shadow out of his shirt and now cuddled the little Nytura in his arms, scratching his chin just the way he liked it. He also breathed a sigh of thanks that no one had kicked Lewis out.
He'd seen Bhindi's scowl and the way she'd shielded Bahn from seeing the older dragel's return. The other Deveraines had simply pretended that the man did not exist. Delani had frowned, but seeing there was no outward confrontation, she'd simply placed herself in Harry's line of sight and kept an eye on them both.
Harry supposed he was lucky to be the near center of attention when it appeared that there were more people looking out for him than he could ever remember in his life up to now. People who currently hadn't screwed him over for something like the sake of the greater good and while they were trying to maintain whatever ridiculous social customs required of them, they were still willing to endorse him.
It was strangely relieving and satisfying in a twisted sort of way. He found that he didn't particularly care to complain.
"…and it's time for the royal introductions!"
A loud fanfare blared through the air and Harry found himself belatedly scrambling to his feet as neatly ordered rows of dragels began to file into the auditorium. He found himself somehow holding Kyle's arm with Quinn's own wrapped on his, as the two simply pulled him up alongside with them. He almost wondered what the fuss was for, but simply copied what the others did, figuring it couldn't hurt.
"We stand to show respect for the first entry," Kyle whispered.
When the announcer reads out the order of the processions, we stand in respect. Nothing to worry about. Quinn squeezed Harry's arm, lightly. A faint glow of excitement had colored his lovely teal eyes and a smattering of vividly colored scales fluxed in along his cheeks and neck.
Quinn's explanation was longer and more useful, Harry decided. He shared a smile with the blond, brightening as he caught sight of Quinn's lovely scales. In all the dragels he'd seen so far, only Quinn had four distinct colors to his. A moment later, a musical fanfare signaled that they could return to their seats for the remainder of the procession.
"Best behavior," Delani called out, a hint of warning in her voice. "Privacy wards coming down, alright?" A slight ripple of magic passed over them as the darkened tint on the clear panels of the viewing box lightened to their natural clear hue, as if they did not exist at all.
Harry stiffened, feeling as if he'd been exposed by the sudden influx of natural light. It sent a restless curl spiraling through his body, his magic knitting itself together, trying to prepare for an attack with the struggling levels present within. He felt a wave of reassurance coming in from Theo and Charlie through their shared bonds. It eased his worries somewhat.
Quinn nudged him, ever so slightly. Everything alright?
Harry nearly shrugged. He was surprised that Quinn had noticed, but then again the Healer had always been oddly perceptive in their few encounters, knowing just what to say and when to say it. "The privacy wards…?"
Ah. Well, we have to also stand in respect for the element that we belong to. Quinn offered a small smile. In your case, you can stand for whichever element you identify with the most or your Alpha's element.
"Oh. I see. Thanks."
Anytime.
They stood again, shoulder to shoulder and at one point and as directed, they all placed a two-finger salute over their hearts and recited a pledge of general allegiance of sorts. Harry didn't understand the half of it, but he dutifully repeated the words as Quinn recited them into his head for him.
"…for that which we have founded, by hands young and old. We give thanks, respect and love. We maintain our loyalty for the pledge taken by our souls, to uphold truth, honor and individuality. We ask nothing and take nothing. We give that which will not destroy us and we build up that which requires repair. For the earth beneath our feet, we stand tall. For the fire within our hearts, we burn bright. For the air that we breathe, we shout for joy. For the tears that we cry, that we will never forget. For the shadows that lurk at our feet, we accept. For the storms that simmer overhead, we understand. For that which joins us all, we count ourselves as one with the universe. We stand as one, united. By Arielle's sacred name, our thanks to Ergen, Portgas, Alloras, Styris, Meeras, Saurenth, Orus and Hyenda. Eternal harmony to us all."
"That's beautiful." Harry murmured, picking out the individual reference to each element and smiling as he figured out that the Nameless was the last one to receive a salute. He'd wondered how they would include it.
"First to present, is the royal house of the Earth element. We warmly welcome Prince Raspen, the crown prince of the Earth Royals and his entourage. Welcome to his ministers, his court and the royal guard." The announcer said.
Harry scrambled to his feet again, this time without any further prompting. He was starting to feel as if this was some bizarre exercise routine. Kyle and Quinn stood up once more as well. He then hesitated, realizing that only Kyle, Quinn, Theo and Ilsa were standing. Another careful look showed that Okahn, Nathan and Jacques were standing as well. Earth elementals, he realized, belatedly. He mentally shrugged it off, realizing that there was nothing wrong with standing up to respect Theo's element. He wondered if he could stand for more than one. Quinn hadn't mentioned that.
A growing rumble of cheers rose up from below and Harry found Theo at his side, urging him forward to come and stand at the front of the viewing box so he could see all the way down to the earthy center of the auditorium. He could see close-up shots from the hovering shimmering screens floating at different levels and sections below, but his sharp eyesight could make out the details on its own.
The ground cracked and shifted, until earthen pillars began to rise from the dusty depths. Waves of dirt crumbled and sprayed every which way as the pillars shuddered, forming a ceiling-less pavilion, with four thrones in the center, each throne facing a specific side, back to back, with stone steps leading up to the newly formed dais.
Four walkways were formed into existence. The dirt molding into hard, packed matter, then whispering away to reveal smooth, grey stone and fancy stonework. At the far right end of the giant circular center, Harry saw a gaping hole beginning to yawn up out of the ground. He didn't realize he was squeezing the feeling out Theo's hand, until he heard his Alpha's soft chuckle in his ear.
"Ease up, Harry. It's all theatrical. Don't worry. Nothing can happen here like it has in the wizarding world."
Harry slackened his grip, wondering when they'd started holding hands, when Theo rested his chin on his shoulder and he let his attention return to the beautiful display of impressive spellwork. He felt his jaw drop when it became obvious that there were stairs leading down into that gaping hole and there were dragels coming into view.
From deep underground, they came.
In solemn procession with musical fanfare, the earth court came to the surface. Then the music began to fill the air. Almost tribal in nature, They were clad in earthen tones of browns and gold, bearing a royal crest boldly upon the chest and sleeves of their tunics and overtunics. They marched in perfect unison, first came two Military Circles that branched off to stand at attention, while the others filed through. The musicians took up the second section of the pathway, lining up with their shiny instruments. The third section was filled with performers, mages with impressive animated replicas trotting along between and beside each other.
In the fourth section of the procession, came the royal court. Advisors and council men and women, bedecked in gilded robes.
And then, came the prince.
Harry couldn't stop the little sound of surprise that slipped past his lips as he processed what exactly it was that he was seeing. He'd expected the Royals to be something big, but he certainly hadn't imagined this vision of loveliness.
Prince Raspen was a lovely young man with charming boyish features and the traditional golden-eyed gaze expected of all earthen elementals. His hair had the same chocolate-hued curls as Theo, with wide full lips and a tilt to his chin that silently proclaimed his royal status without screaming of arrogance. He was dressed in exquisite robes with several layers and shimmering golden embroidery. Atop his head, of course, was a simply decorated crown with an even row of points around the circle and a glimmering amber-colored jewel set in each tip. He waved to each side as he walked, escorted by a circle of bodyguards. Matching rings glimmered on each hand.
Behind his formal procession an almost grotesque hulk of rippling, dripping mud rose up until it took the form of a giant golem, faceless, but with gaping holes for a mouth. It remained silent as it followed obediently, the wetness drying with each step until it looked as if a living statue trailed after them.
Prince Raspen walked to the foot of the stairs leading up to one throne and waited until his court—the advisors and council—had taken their respective positions on the stairs, before gliding forward to take his place on the throne. He smiled when the golem settled down with a huff, slumping into a restful state to his right. His familiar was the most unique out of all of the elements, save, perhaps, for the Storm section. He turned to face the crowd as his bodyguards took up protective stances around the throne, with watchful eyes looking out to the general public.
"I thank you for this warm and hearty welcome," his voice echoed in the air, husky with a touch of warmth. "I am pleased to lend my presence to the Hunt and I wish everyone health, happiness and eternity in finding their soulmates. May you continue to uphold the reputation of our respected element and embody all that the earth is." He sat.
A round of applause and cheers started up again.
When the noise died down, Prince Raspen leaned to the side, listening to somethingwhispered in one ear, then he nodded and turned to face the crowd once more. "It is also my pleasure to introduce to you, her royal highness, the Princess Ebony, crown-intended, of the Fire Royals with her entourage. Welcome to her ministers, court and the royal guard. The Earth Clans extend their warmest welcome and express their sincere appreciation for the alliance between our elements."
"Quinn?" Dyshoka rose to her feet with Dahlia behind her. "They said we'll be presented, we need to leave now." She gave a short bow of apology in Bahn and Bhindi's general direction.
"All of us?" Kyle wanted to know. He looked at Emily and then Quinn, before his brown-eyed gaze flickered over to Harry. Quinn seemed to be thinking the same thing, because his own teal gaze found Harry's eyes.
Dyshoka smiled. "You can be the one to tell Mama otherwise." She suggested, cheerfully. "I'll see you later love," she turned to give Dahlia a peck on the cheek. "Look me up for lunch, alright? We'll probably be on stage forever."
"Why?" Harry looked from her to Quinn, rather wishing that Quinn would answer.
"Family name." Dyshoka waited while Quinn and the others made their way over to her. "We're Kalziks. We are currently favored in the Royal courts because of our healing talents. They were still processing our ranks, but apparently we're approved, which means we'll have to be screened for security, which means we need to leave now. We'll be presented with the Earth Clan Chiefs."
Dahlia snickered and leaned over to whisper something into her lover's ear. Dyshoka's lips twitched at that and she elbowed her in answer. "Ow, hey!" Dahlia protested, dancing back a step. "Have fun."
"I'll be standing and looking pretty," Dyshoka retorted. "How do you think I'll have fun?" She threw a wink to Harry. "Keep an eye out for us in the ranks." She looked to Lewis. "Doesn't your Circle present too?"
Lewis had a distant look in his eyes as he stared off into the distance a moment later, he jolted upright to his feet. A sheepish look registered and he sighed. "Sorry. I'm being recalled too."
"I thought it was odd that it was just us," Dyshoka offered him a smile. "Want to use the same 'portal?"
"That would be lovely, thanks." Lewis smiled gratefully. "Harry, I'll be by later, alright? Enjoy the ceremony. I'll be in the Air section with the Clan chiefs."
Harry nodded in understanding. He felt a little disappointed that everyone seemed to be leaving just as soon as they'd started to settle down. A hand touched his and Harry blinked to find himself staring up into Quinn's vivid teal eyes.
Take it easy for the rest of today, stay close to Theo or Charlie. Try not to use your magic if you can help it. You should be fine by tomorrow. Rest, sugar and blood will be perfect for speeding things up. Simply pull on their magic if you need to. Quinn smiled.
"Will you come back?" Harry heard himself asking before he could help it. "I mean-"
Amusement showed plainly on Quinn's face. I suppose I could. If not today, then tomorrow.
Harry smiled. "Great. Uh, have fun?" He echoed Dahlia's suggestion, uncertainly.
Quinn laughed, silently. I'll try. Standing up for hours makes it feel like I've cast a permanent numbing charm on my feet and my brain.
Harry laughed and watched him leave as Dyshoka held hands with Lewis to cast the portal. He gave a tentative wave as Lewis looked over at him and was rewarded with a warm smile from his uncle.
By the time everyone had left, the Deveraines finally settled down. Theo and Charlie took up a handful of seats in the front row and Harry let himself be guided to Theo's right side. He found himself staring down at the final arrangements of the Earth Royal's procession and realized that they were readying for the second entrance. "That was," he tried to find the words.
"Showy and unnecessary?" Theo suggested, with a chuckle. "Our element is actually the most subtle of all."
Harry found himself turning with a smile on his face. He hadn't thought it was very showy, at least, compared to some of the elaborate fanfare he remembered from the TriWizard Tournament at Hogwarts. On second thought, it probably was a tad showier, but then his mind flickered back to the dramatic entrance of the other two schools and he tried not to think of the other memories that came with them. "It was actually—not what I was expecting. It was nice."
"Nice?" Theo teased. "Eloquent as always, my treasure." He looped an arm around Harry's neck, drawing the smaller dragel to his side. "Keep watching. It'll be ten years before you see this again."
Harry snuggled into the proffered side, turning his attention back to the center stage below.
It was why his reaction was so quick and severe when the Fire element made itself known.
Strips of fire blazed down the aisle rails, leaving behind hovering flames, a line of torchless lights illuminating each section. The visual effect from a distance, appeared as if it were a spider's web, neatly and precisely woven. Then, sections began to blaze brighter than others and Harry realized it was the Fire elemental themselves.
His reaction had been equally instantaneous. He was on his feet, wrenched free from Theo's side, wand drawn on the floating flame, words at his lips for a spell he hadn't even considered, adrenaline surging up and through his veins. It wasn't until he felt Theo's arm curling around his waist, honey-soft voice in his ear, that he jolted back to the unsettling present.
His grip on his wand tightened, the tip wavering as he warily processed the threat for what it was and allowed Theo to talk him down. He had not been expecting that and embarrassment came next as he realized that no one had really reacted, except for the Gheyos had started forward at his movement.
"Hey," Ilsa's voice filtered over Theo's murmurs. "Harry?" She threaded her way through the tiny crowd of her Bonded to stand in the aisle behind Harry, one tier higher. "You have my word that you are safe here," she said, quietly. "Rest assured that none of ours would be sitting this comfortably." She extended a hand to Harry's side, with careful movements and gently pushed his wand hand down.
He let her, feeling his face warm and a rush of giddiness as the adrenaline faded as quickly as it had come. He briefly squeezed his eyes shut, hating the feeling as if he was always somehow managing to do the wrong thing, the opposite of what seemed to be expected of him—every single time.
"Good reflexes, Harry." Delani praised. "I think only Greta is halfway that fast with a focus object." Her smile was gentle and a look of understanding simmered in her soft orange eyes. "Ilsa is correct though. It is her duty and theirs," she gestured to the Gheyos that were strategically lounging in the corners of their viewing box and hovering by the closed entrance. "This is actually their time to shine. They love being useful in a way that only they can be."
Harry gave a small nod, then focused on tucking his wand back up his sleeve into the arm holster. He had noticed the Gheyos keeping to the fringes of the activity, while also placing themselves directly in the perfect spot to counter any potential attacks. He had seen it, read it for what it was, but hadn't been able to stop his own reaction to it.
A flutter of movement beside him registered as Ilsa. Harry stopped himself from flinching, when she reached across the seats to pull his head back towards her. He was completely unprepared for the soft press of cool, dry lips to the side of his temple and a gentle rub to his spell-neatened hair. Ilsa made a deep humming sound in her throat and released him, stepping back to retreat to her original position.
She only said one word, "Theo." And continued back to her seat of honor beside an anxious Bahn and vaguely worried Bhindi.
Theo didn't need any further urging. He was already on his feet, having been a half-pace behind Harry, his own instincts finely attuned to his Submissive and Charlie had been just a breath behind him. Now, Theo reached out, wrapping his arms tightly around Harry and nuzzling the side of his neck, a soothing rumble working up in his throat.
Harry felt the next strands of tension beginning to bleed away. He turned enough to bury his face in Theo's neck, seeking the particular scent that calmed his shot nerves and reminded him that he was safe in a strange place. He sighed, body growing slack in Theo's strong arms.
"It's alright. It's just fire." Theo murmured into his hair, splaying his fingers on Harry's back, one above his waist, the other between his shoulder blades. He gave a few pats and then tilted his head to the side so he could press his cheek to Harry's ruffled hair. "I did not think that would startle you, treasure." He kissed the top of Harry's head, shifting to accommodate the weight as Harry sagged back against him. "I should have warned you." He shifted towards the seats. "I thought you were fine after the earthquake."
Harry blinked at him, allowing himself to be seated.
Theo looked at him. "Didn't you feel the earthquake?"
"What earthquake?"
Theo's lips twitched. "You have a greater affinity with earth than you may be willing to acknowledge," he said, lightly. "Everyone who wasn't connected to earth, felt it deeply enough to stumble or grab at their chairs." He tilted his head towards Charlie who had risen along with them, but had been glared back into his seat by a scowling Loren. The Fire Gheyo had snapped at him to sit down, as it would be disrespectful to his element for him to stand before it was cleared to do so.
"You can stand now," a grumpy Loren muttered, a moment later after Theo and Harry had been settled. His fiery hair had burst into rich, red flames and his brown eyes had taken on a glittering hue. "And control your flames, please."
Charlie shifted to his feet, his blue eyes clouding over, a tinge of red visible. He was annoyed at the older dragel's displeasure, but once Theo had calmed Harry, he'd listened and reseated himself. Now, he made a mental note to keep watch for potential triggers for Harry.
He could easily piece together the reason for Harry's reaction. The pomp and circumstance of the Hunting Season was close to the festivities for the TriWizard Tournament. He'd been called in as a Dragon Handler to help with keeping the dragons manageable for that first task. He'd also seen Harry's quick thinking, fast reflexes and grim determination. He knew all too well how haunting the echo of a memory could be.
Harry had probably reacted purely on instinct. Charlie shrugged his shoulders back, feeling the heat simmering beneath his skin, his element roiled up within. His ponytail escaped its confines to burst into a froth of flame reminiscent of the triple-color hues he'd been sporting since the realization of his inheritance. The flames burned a vivid, deep red at the crown, lightening to a bright orange before it tapered off to a respectable yellow at the tips. He stared down at the center of the stone stage. This was his element in full glory.
The sound of marching feet drew attention to the aisle and Harry stared as solemn ranks of fire Gheyos descended the aisle stairways in single file. They passed just outside of the viewing box in solemn procession. Many of them were clad in bright reds, oranges and yellows, every single one of them had fiery hair and proud expressions.
From the far end of the auditorium on the ground floor, twin double-doors were opened to admit the royal procession. The dragels filing down from the aisles, simply vaulted over the protective railings and into the dirt center. From beyond the double doors, came a rumbling roar. The Gheyos that had filled the center now formed a line, standing at attention as a giant scaly paw stretched out into the natural light.
The shadows of the entryway parted to reveal a massive, blood-red dragon in full, true form. The great head was ridged and horned, showing an intelligent face with a wide, fanged mouth, lips curled back in a roar that charged the air. Aerobic performers came next, cartwheeling, flipping and dancing with great, glittering lengths of ribbon, breathing fire and singing a song that seemed to be the very fire itself.
The crowning moment was the ornate figure perched atop the massive dragon's head.
In a sea full of redheads, Princess Ebony was a petite beauty with hair the color of pitch black. It cascaded down thin shoulders and streamed out behind her, some strands even long enough to splay out behind the crest of the dragon she rode. Her jewelry was simple, flame-colored stones dangling from her ears and nestled in the curve of her generous bosom. Lips painted the brightest, boldest red, the same color of the silken cape twined around her shoulders. Her crown, a delicate matter of twisted gold with blood-rubies set in each of the four points, identical to the signet ring on her right hand.
Her procession continued until they reached the base of the stairs leading up to the dais. From the gaggle of performers, certain individuals began to move forward, taking up the same ranks as Prince Raspen's royal court had. Their flashy costumes melted away to show respectable robes of office. The great dragon was the last to approach and when it reached the bottom of the stairs, it simply bowed the great head, allowing the princess to slide down to the ground.
She stood tall and proud beside it, whispering something that only the dragon could hear. A moment later, a shimmer of magic shrank the massive body to one tenth of the size, allowing it to follow her up the stairs, where it curled around the base of her throne. She curtsied to Prince Raspen, who solemnly inclined his head to her in turn.
The smile on her face stretched from one end to the other and she leaned over to one advisor to hear the prompted words.
Charlie sat down, heavily, mouth open, eyes blinking, hands clenching and unclenching. He didn't know exactly what to say or if he should say anything at all. He hadn't mentioned anything to Theo or Harry yet, simply because he hadn't had the chance. Now, he wished he had someone to share this revelation with.
He'd been offered a mentorship by the Royal Princess of the fire element. He could see her clearly in his mind's eye exactly as she'd been on the way to the bathhouse. Her causal offer and the no nonsense way of speaking. The air of authority gathered around her and the grace with which she had carried herself.
He couldn't believe his luck. Merlin! This was the very last thing he'd expected and it left him at a distinct loss for words in more way than one.
Suddenly, he very much wanted to accept, except for—wait—He looked at Harry, biting his lip. It didn't seem fair to be taking on his own mentor and haring off to learn whatever it was that mentors and their mentored students did, while Harry desperately needed a teacher of his own. He could understand the gap between perfectly matched elements and otherwise—after all, one only need to look at Theo and Ilsa and see how the earth element connected them so deeply that they were practically shadows of each other.
He thought of Lewis and Harry's cheerful reception to the man that was apparently his uncle, a few greats back. Charlie bit back a sigh of near-worry. If he only mentioned his worry to Harry, the younger man would immediately insist that he accept Ebony's offer. That was simply who Harry was.
A jolt of warmth traveled through him as Charlie remembered the intensity in those burning eyes. He wondered how they would meet again so he could accept and then pushed that thought away. Ebony seemed like the type of dragel that would make circumstances come about to whatever she desired. He would wait—at least until the day was over. He wanted to ask Theo and Harry first.
"…and so I thank you for this welcome," Princess Ebony's voice rang out, clear and brisk. "As head of the royal house of our element, I am pleased to lend my presence to the Hunt. I wish health, happiness and eternity to each of you in finding your soulmates. We are all one half of a whole. May you find your missing half. May you uphold the reputation of our element with pride and dignity as you embody all that the power of flame is."
A round of applause started up, accompanied by a rush of cheers and happy screeches.
Princess Ebony smiled at the reception and waited until the noise died down, before continuing her welcome speech. "It is my greatest hope that you will extend this warm welcome to our friends, the Air Clan. It is my honor to introduce to you to our hosting element this season, her royal highness, the Princess Dawne, crown-intended, of the Air Royals with her full entourage. Welcome to her ministers, her court and her impressive royal guard. On behalf of the Fire Clans, I extend our warmest welcome and express our sincere appreciation for the alliance between our elements." Princess Ebony rose to her feet and craned her neck upwards. "Look to the sky!"
And so they did.
Harry let his head roll back to rest on Theo's shoulder as he stared up into the clear, slightly tinted ceiling of the viewing box. At first, he couldn't see much of anything, then a glimmer of light caught his eye and then a flicker of silver, then the entire overhead sky was filled with glittering, shimmering, reflections of all colors.
The gasp that escaped him was accompanied by a soft chuckle from Theo, who now sat comfortably, one arm wrapped securely around Harry's waist. "They're gorgeous, aren't they?"
"Yes," Harry breathed. Like angels…
The angle of the light changed and a collective gasp of awe rose from the seated crowd below. Princess Dawne and her entire entourage descended from the sky in a flurry of glittering wings, shimmering scales and airy, whispery magic so potent that the air grew thick and heavy with it.
As the Earth types had taken to soft earthy colors and the Fire types had claimed the reds, oranges and yellows of their element, the Air clan made full use of white, silver and gold. Harry started faintly when he realized nearly the entire Deveraine Circle was standing out of respect for their respective element, but Theo patted his stomach in a soothing manner. "It is their element, they can stand, we do not have to." He murmured.
Harry hummed in agreement, turning slightly to see as each of the Air Deveraines in turn, stretched out beautiful wings, looking perfect in their pristine white dresswear and perfectly plaited golden hair. He could now understand Bahn's horror at seeing his Bonded's efforts to dress themselves. He could also understand the vaguely superior air that surrounded all of the Deveraines on principle, because now, seeing the Air's fantastic display, it made sense.
They descended in ordered ranks, the royal guard first, followed by the royal court of ministers and advisors. The final one to set foot on the smooth ground was the Princess Dawne herself. She was clad in numerous layers of shimmery, near-transparent white fabric that expertly swathed her tall, lithe figure. She was at least an entire head and shoulders taller than Princess Ebony and the exact opposite in looks. Ebony sported rich, tanned skin and hair such a rich shade of red that it appeared black, Dawne was all pale skin and nearly white hair.
She waited patiently while her entourage arranged themselves into the respective greeting line. A happy screech overhead had everyone looking up and Princess Dawne merely smiled and held out an arm. Overhead, a circling shadow gave way to a brilliant white bird that gradually grew smaller as it approached until it could safely perch on Dawne's slender arm. Princess and familiar greeted each other with affectionate nuzzles, before a minister urged them forward.
Princess Dawne greeted both of her fellow Royals with a deep curtsy and a few murmured words that were not broadcasted to the entire auditorium. She did not take her seat, as the other two had done, however, but instead turned towards the gaping hole that Prince Raspen's entrance had left.
A fond smile settled on her face and she waved off her entire court to take their positions by her empty throne. Standing alone off to the edge of the stage, she spoke in a strong, clear voice. "As the hosting element for this Hunting Season, it is my greatest pleasure to welcome the Water element, that which completes the foundation of our four corners. I welcome the Aqua'Kin'e, the Merrow, as we know them. A hearty and honest welcome to the Crown Prince and his court. Please show your appreciation for Prince Alcandor!"
At her request, the fine smattering of applause rounded out to a decent-sized cheer of welcome. Princess Dawne favored the excited crowd with a gentle smile in reward and waited for her welcome and invitation to be acknowledged.
For several minutes, nothing happened.
The applause tapered off and it seemed as if nothing was happening.
But her smile didn't waver and instead, it morphed into something showing fond exasperation as a gurgling, bubbling sound drew all eyes to the darkened hole in the floor, where water had begun to spring. At first, it was a pale brown color, then it began to lighten, until it was vivid, bright blue.
Like liquid crystal, the water sprang up from the gaping hole and began to snake towards the royal platform. It poured forth, filling the ground, lapping at the edge of the raised platform of the royals. It was the loveliest shade of blue and almost too clear to be believed, as it settled into a nearly smooth surface.
Perfectly safe from the new water, Princess Dawne continued to wait, smiling when her familiar chattered in her ear. She reached up with one hand to stroke the downy feathers and fought to keep the smile on her face from growing wider by the second.
A loud sucking sound announced a vortex that swirled to life in the center of the hole where the pouring water now stilled. From the shadowed, nearly black depths, three pointed golden tips emerged, taking on the shape of a trident that towered overhead before a crown was visible.
With slow precision, the darkened figures rose from the watery whirlpool one after another. They came into full view, the moment they stepped free from the transportation portal and the Merrow magic made itself known first. Sweet and cloying almost, a heady rush accompanied the oppressive feeling as the proud Merrow marched in perfect unison to form the greeting line for their Royal.
When the last one had stepped from the portal, Prince Alcandor stepped fully into view. The same collective gasp that had greeted Princess Dawne, now repeated itself in the face of witnessing the ethereal beauty of the haughty Merrow Royal. At first glance, the differences between Merrow and Landwalking dragels were painfully clear.
Every single Merrow had skin the color of pale teal, hair the color of rich blue and fluted, scalloped ears that peeked out from their unnaturally colored hair. The obvious differences seemed to vanish in the face of the reality of a closer look. Every Merrow present was clad in identical sleeveless tunics and slender fitting trousers with shiny, heeled boots. Jewels and precious metals adorned them from delicate earrings to fat cuffs on a wrist or bicept and cords of gold draped around their necks. Each face wore a look of bland indifference and the court surrounded a section of twenty young Merrows—young, because they were shorter than all of the others present.
The Merrow guards were heavily armed and clad in deep purple armor with gleaming shell segments and flexible leathery hides. They were a head and shoulders taller than even the advisors, draped in their official garb. Not a single scar, mark or blemish was present on any body and it was almost as if they were all operating on some semblance of a hive mind.
Prince Alcandor strode forward, head held high, grip firm on his gleaming golden trident. Six Merrow at the head of his procession stepped to the side and raised twisted flutes to their lips, playing a lovely, eerie melody that seemed to sum up the strange beauty and attitude of the Merrow.
Of all the Merrow present, the Prince was the only one shirtless. The shirtless state of dress was the only obvious hint to the androgynous features that Alcandor was definitely male. His chest, well-defined and bare, sported a ring of gold from each dusky nipple and a fat collar of ornate craftsmanship with jewels the color of the sea. His hair was a deep navy hue and it fell almost to his knees, held away from his face by a few intricate braids interwoven with strands of shimmering gold and pinned with the stately crown perched atop his head.
A sumptuous cloak of shimmering greens and blues were draped around his shoulders and fell to the ground, fanning out behind him for several feet in a luxurious train. His body proudly displayed the tattoos of his dragel heritage, the elegant scrolls quite visible on his pale blue skin. In the left hand, he held a swirling blue orb in a round, gilded cage. It glowed with every step that he took.
This was the Merrow Royal.
Harry found himself frowning as he watched the Merrow's entrance. He now had the answer to his question, as to whether Alec was a unique Merrow or not—as far as he could tell, Alec was not. Every Merrow was blue in the same way—skin color, eye color, hair color and so on. It was impossible to tell any of them apart, at least from this distance.
Careful study allowed him to pick out a few minute details such as smaller eyes, fuller lips or a pointed jaw. However, it was almost as if they'd planned for it to be that way, at least for the group of twenty Merrow that stood proudly a few paces from the royal platform, the cool blue water lapping at their ankles.
The water didn't seem to bother any of them.
Harry squinted at the group, realizing that instead of the darker blues of the advisors and ministers, the twenty were dressed far more openly, compared to the conservative official dress. While the officials wore patterned robes with white, blue and green hues, the twenty in the group were identical in every way. There were no fancy jewels or necklaces either, they all wore matching blue earrings, black-corded necklaces and bracelets and more than one had an anklet on each leg.
What really surprised Harry, however, wasn't the strangeness of the entire procession, but the familiar face of one Advisor Kieran. He stepped forward, with a guiding hand that never once touched Prince Alcandor, but urged the royal forward and into the very public eye.
This Merrow Royal was an absolute pleasure to look at.
Charlie made a soft sound from Theo's other side.
Loren snorted. "Don't even think in that direction," he half-scolded. "Our kind doesn't mix well with theirs. Especially our kind." He said, meaningfully. "You'd best resign yourself to being scorned for no other reason than the element you were born with. Merrow do not trifle with fire types."
Charlie's look of interest faded away to one of pensive thought. "Just because we're Fire types?"
"What is more unnerving to a fire type than water?" Loren retorted. "Think about it, they could douse and drown us before we even had a moment to-"
"Don't scare him off," Ilsa scolded. "If he's interested, he's interested and he has just as much right as anyone else." She sent a severe frown in Loren's direction until the Gheyo huffed and turned away. "Charlie, Loren does have a point in that you will find it just as easy to avoid them as they will avoid you. The same way they can—drown you, as Loren so charmingly put it—is the same way that with a hot enough fire, we could kill them, burning out all the moisture in their body. Much along the same tune that you would torture a beached mermaid. I tell you this in allowance for your wizarding upbringing. It's best not to mingle with them." She turned her frown to Harry, who remained with his head half-nestled in the crook of Theo's neck. "And Harry, please be careful. You might be a Nameless element and Theo is an Earth one, but with Charlie as your Beta—there will be problems and it would likely be best that you kept a respectable distance as well."
Theo snorted. "He's been cursed by Merrow magic, Oretta. I think he's passed the point of respectable distance."
Harry elbowed Theo's stomach. "That was an accident!"
"Try not to have any more accidents?" There was a hint of exasperated fondness in Ilsa's voice as she turned and murmured in Elven, an answer to something Bahn was whispering in her ear. "Right. Harry, I'll try to meet with my father sometime this afternoon. I can't promise how fast he will react, but he has access to Prince Raspen, which will likely allow us some sort of opportunity to speak to a Merrow in good standing to take a look at that spell on you, alright?"
Harry nodded at that. "Thanks."
Her smile softened. "I will try to rush things if I can, so that you do not have to bear that longer than you should."
"Do you recognize anyone?" Theo asked, staring down at the stage. "They all look alike, don't they?"
"Don't say that to their face," Loren snorted.
"By which, Loren means that he had the misfortune of being the reason why our Circle does not boast of a Merrow Bonded." Bhindi sighed. "Take a word of advice and don't invite trouble. You won't have a moment's rest if you should be as unfortunate enough to survive a Merrow courtship." She sniffed.
Harry's eyes narrowed faintly in her direction.
"What they both mean is that a Merrow took interest a few seasons back," Ilsa said, quietly. "Long before I was ever involved in this-" she gestured to the twins cuddled up between her and Delani. "And they declined to engage in a formal courtship after discovering Loren's presence."
"But we're all dragels," Harry said, softly.
Bahn snorted. "True, but Merrow are special dragels." The smile on his face turned wistful. "And if you are lucky-" here he shot a glare at his twin. "Then you will yourself to be very, very blessed by the powers that be."
"Look in front, Harry." Theo interrupted, before the conversation could grow too serious. "You'll miss the formal introductions."
"It is my pleasure to present to you his royal highness," Advisor Kieran began. "He no longer stands before you as a crown-intended prince, but as the accepted ruler of his domain, King Alcandor from the clan of her royal highness, Queen Manthestia. I give you her favored son and the people's choice. He has ruled with a kind and firm hand since assuming his duty seven years before. I ask that you welcome him with the respect that is due his elevated station."
Princess Dawne stared in shock for a moment, recovering quickly with a bright, charming smile as she started forward to the edge of the royal platform. As Alcandor approached, she held out both hands to him. The young king immediately passed his trident over to Advisor Kieran and the orb to the one on his left. He inclined his head, grasping both of her pale white hands in his and bringing each of them up to kiss the knuckles in turn.
The Princess blushed prettily, swatches of color blossoming on her pale features and she offered him a slight curtsy, leaving her hands in his.
A friendly smile cracked across his solemn face and almost at once, it seemed as if everyone relaxed. "Princess Dawne," he said, silkily. "You have grown infinitely more beautiful than the last occasion I had the pleasure of your company. Eternal harmony to you and yours."
"You went and changed crowns before all us," she chided softly. "I am so pleased to see that it suits you so well. Welcome to the Hunt."
"It is a weight I bear with gladness," Alcandor returned. "I thank you for this welcome."
"Where is Goonter?"
"I will summon him after you are safely seated," A smirk played across his face. "Well met to you, dear lady." He inclined his head to the feathered familiar. The long-feathered bird stretched her head out and nibbled a tiny blue braid peeking out from beneath his golden crown. "Does it suit me?" He inquired. He released Dawne's hands and held out his arm. "Shall we, my dear?"
Dawne accepted the arm with no small amount of amusement. "Chivalrous as ever," she hummed. "You'll be vicious in a minute, won't you?"
"Why, whomever to?" Alcandor led her to the throne and saw that she was properly seated. "Raspen," he murmured, stepping down from the dias and crossing over to his own empty throne.
Ebony bristled faintly, but held her head high and said nothing as he deliberately ignored her and took his place.
"Goonter," the single name was spoken with a faint hiss.
A loud roar erupted from the swirling whirlpool and with playful roar, Goonter's head surfaced, followed by the rest of his gleaming, scaled body. The iridescent shimmer cast a faint rainbow sheen along the tall stone walls of the auditorium. Goonter's significant bulk continued to stream forth from the portal as the giant sea serpent coiled himself around the royal platform, folding the rest of himself into a comfortable coil close to Alcandor's throne.
One wisp of movement drew attention to the great, flared head and as the colorful ruff flared out, a young Merrow could be seen perched on Goonter's head, dressed in a wetsuit, a sour look on his face.
Alec. Harry straightened up at once, leaning forward. A feeling of triumph surged through him and he wondered, briefly whether the scowl was simply Alec's standard look, before the original annoyance at their last encounter registered. He mentally began to recite spells in alphabetical order in his head to distract his temper from simmering any hotter than necessary.
If he had to bet on anything, he would say that Alec's latest spell had caused him that headache at the introductions just minutes ago. Idiot Merrow. The next time we meet… Harry snorted. Alec was not the apologizing type, as far as he could tell, so he didn't delude himself with the thought of a possible apology, but he didn't dismiss it either.
The disturbing scene he'd witnessed between Alec and Advisor Kieran had left him feeling very, very unsettled and he wished he knew more about Merrows and Merrow politics to understand which rules he could actually break and which ones he ought to be mindful of.
"Harry?" Theo leaned forward with him. "Who is it? What is it?"
"It's smerlf!" Harry tried to point, disturbed when he found his hand wandering off everywhere else but where he was trying to point it. That was new. He hadn't experienced that particular side effect before.
Theo grabbed his wrist, frowning at the spark of magic that leapt between them. "I take it this curse is more complicated than we thought. You can see him, he's there? The one that did this?"
"It's a he and not a she?" Charlie wanted to verify. "How can you tell?" He frowned. "Not that I see any-"
Loren snickered. "There hasn't been a female Merrow anywhere near the surface in centuries," he said, shaking his head. "Don't repeat that to anyone else. Only the men surface and as if that's not insulting enough, see that bunch in the center there? That little gaggle of twenty?"
Charlie slowly nodded.
"Those are all the available Merrow that will surface that are available for courting or being courted. No one else. In fact, his new royal highness will have to give a speech about the proper conduct and acceptable behaviors towards them in a moment." His lips curved into a bitter smile. "They think us to be barbarians."
"For good reason," Ilsa said briskly. "Do not dwell on that which is unchangeable. Now, if you keep on talking, you will miss that lovely speech on good manners."
"…and so I wish to impart a few words of wisdom. Those you see standing before you here today are those who have agreed to surface and permit interaction aboveground. There are twenty eligible Merrows of varied ranks, none are Alpha and none are Submissive. Beyond that, you will have to discover their individuality on your own. During the day time, our kind will move freely with yours. At night, we will reside in the White Caverns, as we always have, during the Hunt. There are no exceptions to this. Each Merrow is required to report in for the night, a failure to do so will incur my immediate displeasure and consequent wrath." Alcandor paused.
The Merrow guards stood stiffly at attention, a tangible wave of magic rippling on outward. There was no room for misunderstanding the veiled threat.
"You should be well aware of the jewelry worn by the eligible, they are marked tokens of favor and if gifted, you should understand that you have been chosen or accepted to some degree. We are expressive and seductive creatures, please beware that the term 'harmless flirting' is something entirely different to us. At any time, should an incident of criminal nature occur involving one of our own, we reserve the right to refer to Merrow Law. In following with our native laws, expect Merrow justice." Alcandor offered a smile. "Hopefully I have not discouraged you from befriending these charming young fellows, because I assure you, they are polite and interested."
"Thank you, Alcandor." Princess Dawne spoke next. "Next to join us are the respective heads for the remaining two elements. I give you Lady Bianca Dreswell, head of the Storm Clan and those with that unique element. Please welcome her!"
The expected round of applause started up.
And then a streak of lightning sizzled down on the platform, followed by another and another, framed by the echo of thunder looming in the distance. A ball of white-purple energy formed out of thin air and then the following successive cracks gave way to eight long legs. The center ball of energy twisted and morphed until a spider's shape was visible.
The final crack of thunder revealed a short, golden-skinned young woman with bushy, blonde hair and a grim expression. She was dressed in a skintight suit of black and purple and she made no speech or announcement, but simply settled atop the head of her created spider.
The odd creature rose up and walked around the platform, settling down on the space between Alcandor and Dawne, the sponsors of her element.
"Thank you for gracing us with your presence, Lady Bianca." Princess Dawne said, formally. "You are-?"
"My court is here." The Lady said, uncomfortably. "They need not be acknowledged."
Princess Dawne smiled. "As you wish." She turned to her left. "Ebony? Your turn."
Princess Ebony mirrored the smile offered and turned to face her section of the auditorium. "I wish to welcome, on behalf of myself and Prince Raspen, our shared element, the Shadow Clans. We welcome Lord Cunningham and his esteemed Circle."
Like the Merrows had, at first, nothing visible appeared to have happened.
Then the shadows from Princess Ebony's throne stretched over to the shadow from Prince Raspen's throne and a large square of blackness rose up, from which the wispy folds parted and a distinguished, bearded fellow stepped forward, holding his arm out for a pretty submissive with her hair done in coiled pigtails.
Following the careful duo, the rest of the Cunningham Circle stepped into the lighted platform. They were all clad in black from head to toe and while it was clear that they were uncomfortable with being in the spotlight, they presented themselves as a unified front.
The final dragel to emerge from the shadow portal was an entirely different story altogether. Tall, with dark hair feathered around a strong, angular face, he wore the expected black and grey hues with one very obvious exception. Two broad sword hilts stuck up over his shoulders and his face was obscured by a lovely black mask with golden scrolls along the border and the eyes. Two feathered plumes adorned the right side, one of scarlet, the other of purple. He stood relaxed and uncaring.
From the shadows at his feet, a massive hound took shape with glowing eyes, one red and the other green. It had the appearance of a mastiff with sloped shoulders, a broad head and large paws. It padded around the Cunningham Circle and took up residence at the Submissive's feet.
In the viewing box, Harry felt his gaze drawn to the proud shadowed figure and for a moment, he panicked. Surely that couldn't be a suggestion that he was Bonded material, could it? He waited, almost breathless, but then nothing happened. No click, no shift and twist, just nothing.
An audible sigh of relief escaped him and Harry leaned into Theo. He smiled inwardly when Theo responded by stroking his side and humming in his throat. The gesture was appreciated. He had enough to think about with Alec and Wikhn, he did not need anything else thrown in there.
The feel of eyes zeroed in on him had Harry turning halfway to find Ilsa's steady golden gaze fixed on him. He swallowed and turned back to Theo. That single look had him remembering her words on the dock the night before. It tickled a bit of his temper and he managed a respectable scowl, settling back against Theo to watch the rest of the proceedings.
A/N: Whew! and so we're finally here at last, the Royal Introductions. This chapter took forever to hammer out. I couldn't keep it just the way I was seeing it in my head. I hope I did it justice. I hope it lived up to the hype. Now we can really get into the fun stuff. I can't wait. Thank you for your patience and kind reviews in the last chapter. I really appreciate each and every one of you.
The entrance playlist for the Royals, if anyone is interested was:
Enya's "Return to Innocence" (Earth). Fall Out Boy "My Songs Know What You Did in the dark" (Fire). ATC's "So Magical" (Air), Enya's "Deep Forest" (Merrow), Pryda "Nile" (Storm), Nazca's "Aicha" (Shadow).
REVIEW RESPONSES are in the FORUM for Ch 82. Copy and paste to get there, click on the appropriate chapter number and scroll down to find your review and my reply. Replace the (heresadot) with actual dots as FF eats all urls. Live link is on my profile.
forum(heresadot)fanfiction(heresadot)net/forum/The re_Be_Dragons_Harry_Forum/108964/
STATE OF CHARACTERS:
Theo-(with Charlie, Harry and Deveraines)
Charlie-(with Theo, Harry and Deveraines)
Harry-(with Theo, Charlie and Deveraines)
Deveraine Circle members-(Bahn, Bhindi, Delani, Okahn, Takar, etc. in the private viewing box.)
Deveraine Children: Introductions over, with friends (Ariki, Soula, Lorelei)
Kalziks: Reporting to their family Circle.
Lewis Peverell : Reporting to his Bonded Circle.
~Scion