Chapter: 8

HOLY SHIT ITS FINALLY HAPPENED! I UPDATED! xDDDDD yays!

Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, regrettible, I do not even own sheka, as he is based on the basilisk in COS. T^T why must you be such a cruel bint JK Rowling? Why must you take away my right to publish my storehs?

Chapter 6 – Neville Longbottom: one sexy mother fucker.

"Gahh!" Plump lips gaped open in a gasp of air as harry sat up in his bed, panting in a cold sweat out of the panic his dream had caused him. His mind flew at supersonic speed with the many images that had flown behind his eyes as the details of his already forgotten nightmare slowly ebbed away. Placing a hand to his forehead instinctively, he recalled how his scar didn't hurt in the least considering the only detail of the dream being the One-And-Only, and had been suspiciously mute for several weeks, though harry paid that no mind. However he had considered visiting the Headmaster, he chalked it off to inactivity on Voldemort's part.

"Finally you woke up." sounded out a familiar voice from inside the bathroom. "You slept like the dead last night, mate." Ron stepped out into the room, pulling a white T-shirt over his head.

"Nnn." Harry reached out and put his glasses on, finally realising he was in his Gryffindor dorm room.

"How are you feeling?" Ron asked, and in an instant, the events of yesterday came back, rushing to the front of his mind like a tsunami.

::NO!::

Sheka turned to Harry with a glare to massacre all of Britain, who lay broken on the floor, eyes pleading in submissive protest. He knew that in the state his love was in, nothing short of that would have a chance of stopping him; not that he had the energy to do much else.

::D-don't…Amente…please …:: he winced at the stabbing pain in his chest as he struggled to breath and found himself trembling as he attempted to sit up. Sheka's eyebrow visibly twitched, his cold stare meeting Harry's desperately begging eyes.

::You would have me let this filth live?:: he hissed in response, jabbing his wand into the boys throat as he sat frozen in terror, teetering on the edge of his consciousness. ::This bottom feeding spawn, who dared threaten you!:: Harry looked deeply into his eyes and with more effort than he though he could muster he crawled onto his knees and bowed his forehead to the ground, ignoring the stabbing pain in his chest, as he did so.

::Yes.:: he said shakily, barely above a whisper. :: The Headmaster will punish him, Amente.::

He didn't know why he knew doing this would convince his mate; he just did... well, hoped it would. He lifted his gaze to Sheka once more, still seeing that his anger had not subsided at all. Harry's stomach plummeted when he saw the ghost of green at the end of his wand grow brighter, and he knew he had to risk offending his mate, if it meant the life of this pitiful spectacle.

::Would you rather kill a human child than heal your mate?:: As if suddenly coming out of a trance, Sheka's eyes cleared of the anger that had clouded them, steadily and slowly, replaced by an expression of horror and self disgust.

Harry shuddered softly and he felt his arms give out at long last, his strength now fading with his consciousness, and as if the horrible quarrel had never occurred, Sheka rushed to Harry's side, who was now sobbing in short gasps. His eyes fluttered shut as he was taken into his nest mate's arms, snuggling into the comfort he craved and found he cared not that his body was searing with pain. Although Harry hated acting so weak, not being able to take care of himself when injured; he revelled in the warmth that spread throughout him. Sometimes, it felt good to let someone else take control. That was his last thought before floating into the darkness of sleep.

"Where's Sh-Slang?" he asked as he rose out of bed, surprised at the lack of pain he felt from the incident. "And why am I not in the hospital wing?" Ron's neck snapped in his direction as he was given a look as if asking, "You want to be stuck with that maniac woman?" Harry quickly shook his head and blushed.

"Slang had to do some major fast talking to get her to let you sleep here." Ron said in a serious tone. "She wanted you in the bloody hospital wing for a week until he showed her you were fine. Then she began prattling on about how he'd better feed you chocolate and come to visit her once a week." He rambled. "No clue what that was about but apparently she wants him to help her out with something and-" Harry rolled his eyes. In all that waffle Ron had fed him he still didn't know where his partner was.

"So where is he?" he interrupted, causing Ron to turn pink around the ears in embarrassment.

"With the first years in the east wing on the fifth floor." He said fastening his school robes. "They postponed the sorting to this morning cause of all the commotion on the train." He suddenly directed his gaze back to harry. "What happened any ways?" he lifted an eyebrow. "One of those spells blasted straight through the compartment wall and demolished the Hogs Head when we passed by it! I didn't know there were spells that could do that!"

Harry paled.

'Sheka and Draco did that much damage? Scratch that... DracoMalfoy could do that much damage?'

"Is Malfoy okay?" Ron rolled his eyes.

"The slimy bloke is probably in the hospital wing milking his 'injuries' for all they're worth." He hissed out. Ron looked absolutely irate, though; he suddenly smirked. "But you should have see McGonagall's face when Slang told her he had been the one to break your ribs. She totally let him off after that and went straight to giving Malfoy hell." he, then proceeded to imitate the Gryffindor matron in a high falsetto, and Harry's laughter rang out as he watched. "Never have I-oh! You could have- Never in my life! Twenty five...grrrr! One hun - gahhh! Two hundred points from Slytherin!" he shrieked. "And you can bet that you will be spending every night this term in detention! You are the most lucky man alive, Mr. Malfoy that I am not your head of house!" Ron was snickering and wiping tears of laughter from his eyes when he was done, when Neville suddenly appeared from his bed curtains shaking his head with a lifted eyebrow that was...surprisingly suave.

"Nearly wet himself this one." He grinned dashingly, jaunting his head over to the hysterical red head as he stepped out in all of his nude glory. "Professor Slughorn was dodging hexes from the woman when he told her he wouldn't even suspend him." Harry blushed softly when he saw Neville's newly toned and masculine...masculinity. Long gone was the awkward boy of eleven, rummaging around for his toad, who couldn't manage a simple spell. In his place climbed out a powerful, handsome and well endowed man of 17. His babyish face had thinned out into a chiselled jawline covered in a Sirius-esque five o clock shadow; and when looking over to Ron, who was in a bit of shock, he noticed that he too was looking extremely vexed.

'I hope Hermione never finds out.' He thought dubiously, trying not to grin.

"Hey Nev." Harry hopped out of bed, thankful he was not in the nude as he usually slept these days. "How was your summer?" Neville gave him a beaming smile.

"Apparently not as plentiful as yours." His smile turned into a perverted, and suggestive grin when he noticed a rather visible hickey under his jawline.

Suddenly, Ron rushed out of the room muttering about having to "take care of something". Harry snorted when he saw a morning wood that had escalated to visibility upon Neville's appearance.

"Hell," he muttered, trying not to laugh as he watched Ron stumble to the bathroom again. "You got him into a right state…"

"I know." Neville's mouth stretched even further, making him look like some dashingly handsome child molester, as much of an oxymoron as that could be. "It's so cute. I wish he could come to terms with us already."

"Are you serious?" Harry gaped at him in utter shock. "when!"

"This summer." Nev smirked and looked to the side in his reminiscence. "He was drunk off his high horse when he told me he was Bisexual." His cheeks flushed in a familiar way. "But he was completely sober later on…u know…when we." Harry's eyes all but popped out of his skull.

"But Hermione-"

"Planned it." Neville snickered as he pulled on a pair of boxers. "Woman's a goddess, I tell you. Saw it in an instant and came to me the moment she was sure."

"But what about-"

"She's been writing love notes back and forth to Krum for months. Last I heard, he finally was able to say her name correctly." Harry laughed.

"At long last."

"Mmhm." Neville continued to clothe himself when Harry began rummaging through his trunk, realising he had absolutely no clean clothing.

"Shit." Nev waltzed over and peered into his drawers.

"All dirty?"

"Yup." They both groaned knowing how bad it was for the clothing to Scourgify them. "Wanna' borrow mine?"

"Please?" harry nodded, thanking god for size altering spells. He was still way to skinny to fit into the other's pants who had not thinned out much, purely out of the fact that he looked as if every ounce of his baby fat had been transformed into muscle mass.

"He wait. what's that?" Nev asked abruptly, pointing to a slightly glossy bit of fabric that was sticking out of his trunk. He pulled it out and lifted them in front of him, his teeth now exposed in a frighteningly pervy grin.

"Harry?" he asked clearly trying not to laugh. "What are you doing with a pair of leather pants?" Harry squeaked and lunged at him, trying to snatch them away.

"No! they aren't mi-"

"Then why is 'Golden Boy' embroidered on the arse?" His eyes widened with glee as he showed the "Golden Boy", what he was about to be forced to wear.

"No! Nev I cant wear tha- NO! DON'T LOOK IN THERE!" he pulled the boy back as best he could in an attempt to heel him from rummaging through his B-day gifts. But only found himself in a one armed headlock.

"Oh my harry!" Neville teased. "I definitely think you should go with this one." He held up the "If you think this shirt is tight..." T and waggled his eye brows.

"I'm sure you're boyfriend would love to see you in these." He let harry go and threw him the pants and shirt. Harry glared daggers at him in defiance,his lower lip extended in a pout. "You might as well cause I know a really useful hex that can make sure that whatever you wear is completely translucent." Harry gulped.

"You wouldn't." Neville pointed his wand with a dead serious look and a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

"Induvaie li-

"Putting them on!" harry squeaked again, charging into the bathroom. Muffled yells filling the dorm.

"Akh! Harry what are you-"

"Get your arse out and go fuck Neville already!"

"Wha?"

"OUT!"

"How did you-"

"OUT!"

"But-"

"IM ABOUT TO CUT OFF A PAIR OF BALLS IF YOU DON'T GET OUT NOW!"

"But Ha-"

"Testicolo Rimozione!"

"AAHHHHH!"

Ron came out a few moments later, whimpering and sobbing as he clutched his groin. His balls would not grow back for another hour.

Sheka sighed exasperatedly as he and the first years were led to the great hall where everyone else was waiting and eating. They had been given an early breakfast as classes would start virtually right after the sorting. But this was not why he was so…uncomfortable. No. It was the fact that every one of the potential Slytherin's now gazed at him with reverence and clung to his every movement…and his legs. Yes, one or two of the more spoiled, pampered, or just childish students had been feeling homesick and he had been idiot enough to try and comfort them. However as he looked at the undoubtedly adorable faces of his future house mates, he found himself glad that he now knew he would be at least a semi good father when Harry bore him children. A total of four witches and two little wizards now hung onto him for emotional support while as the others who were less attached to their parents stood close by not wanting to remove their mask of superiority. He supposed this was a good thing. After all, his influence was already under way, and he had in fact found a – Sheka smirked to himself- friend in one of them.

"What's going on, Slang" Anwen asked, quietly, her curly black hair curled around her unnaturally yellow eyes.

"Shh the sorting is about to begin." He said smiling over at Harry who sat at his table. He felt a tug to his heart string when Harry turned his way and sent him an affectionate wink.

McGongall stepped forward at long last, carrying with her a scroll and the old sorting hat. Sheka's breath hitched in his chest. Even from this far away, he could feel his fathers magical signature, and he was filled with more emotions than he could recognise all at once.

"When I call your name." the Professor announced mechanically. "You will come forth and be sorted into the appropriate house." She glanced at the list and began calling them up one by one.

The first six names called were all Ravenclaw's Gryffindor's and Hufflepuff's. Needless to say these houses were looking quite smug as their numbers grew bit by bit, while Slytherin sulked disappointedly. Draco was looking particularly sour, harry noticed as he looked over and he couldn't help an evil snicker. His position at the top of the Slytherin hierarchy was about to come to an end, and he knew it. Personally, he was looking forward to whatever Sheka had planned for him by means of embarrassment.

"Othello, Anwen." Was the first of Sheka's dependants to be torn away, and hoped with all his might that she was a worthy Slytherin. She would need him in the months to come. When her name was called, Harry noticed she did not let go until he bent down, cupping her ebony cheek assuringly with a short whisper. But even then it appeared as if she were clinging to him till the last second. Harry shifted in his seat uncomfortably at the familiar gesture and his eyes narrowed.

"Harry..."

Harry's eyes followed the girl up to the front of the hall tentatively, analysing every aspect of the face, the figure-

"Harry."

-the smell, the taste of the threat's essence as it trailed behind her. Harry turned his head to Sheka, who's gaze followed her with what he recognised as affection. He looked to the girl again and felt a livid, feral growl escape his throat.

"Harry!" harry shifted his attention to the voice that called his name and saw a pair of feminine auburn eyes looking at him with evident concern. "Harry are you feeling alright?" He looked at her, then back to Sheka, who was now watching him with equal concern.

"N-nothing. I'm fine." he smiled. "Don't worry I just kind of drifted off." Both Hermione and Ron exchanged worried glances, but did their best to accept his answer.

"Slytherin!" there was an enthusiastic cheer for the first Slytherin of the ceremony, and Anwen sped over with a new jaunt to her step.

"Crevey, Gavin." Harry all but groaned when he heard the surname Crevey. He did not need another shutterbug, flash-happy Huffendor on his tail. But as he watched, the dirty blond boy strutted up to the stool and sat down, the hat hadn't even reached anywhere close to his head when it bellowed out-

"SLYTHERIN!" there was a collective gasp throughout the room before Slytherin broke into cheers, happy to have what was no doubt a far cry from his older brothers.

One by one the crowd around Harry's mate all were sorted into the house until there were a total of twenty three new Slytherin's. Needless to say, all but said house and secretly, Harry, was grousing as if Christmas holidays had been cancelled.

Harry held his breath as finally Sheka was called, the last on the alphabetical list.

"Rodrego, Slang." The effect was quite similar to how Harry had been welcomed into Hogwarts. Whispers broke out through the entire room as the tall god-like figure stepped up almost regally and sat down on the stool.

Sheka was practically trembling with excitement as the hat settle upon his brow. Finally, finally he would be able to speak with his only "living" parent.

::Seryeshka?:: a voice whispered into his head. ::Merlin above I never thought id see you again.::

::Father,:: Sheka was thankful for his lack of ability to cry. ::I've missed you.::

::And I you,:: Salazar wished so dearly he could reach out and hug his son. ::Why are you here being sorted?::

::I have found my mate.:: he felt his pride swell up within him when he heard an approving hiss. ::I am here to learn more about what we share, as that fiend took you away from me before I could learn. Is it true he killed Papa?::

::Slaughtered more like.:: Slytherin growled. ::I am glad you had not grown into your eyes yet. It was horrible to look upon…I admit, I was partially glad he forced me into this existence. I may have killed myself of grief should he have not done so.::

::It is so good to speak to you again.::

::The same for me, my son.:: he said. ::But we can talk later, the headmaster keeps me in his office should you seek me out.::

::I assume I go into your house?::

::Where else would my true heir be placed.:: he chuckled. ::Tom Riddle himself was the only other I ever had conflict with bedsides Mr. Potter, who by the way is looking rather delectable if I do say so myself. He would have made a fine Ravenclaw, but he insisted upon my house.::

::Oh dear.:: sheka smirked. ::I wonder how Carus would react to that.::

::I hope I am there to see it.::

The entire great hall was staring at Sheka, who had been sitting on the stool for a good five minutes.

"What on earth is taking it so long to sort the guy?" Ron hissed to harry. Said boy's expression remained unreadable and watched tentatively.

"The sorting hat is Slytherin, Ron."

"Whaa?"

"oh!" Hermione grinned in realisation. "Father son time?" Harry chuckled, though he still watched as the Anwen creature stared at his mate.

"As close to that as they can ge-"

"SLYTHERIN!" the applause was incredibly loud from all the first years of Sheka's new house walking over giving Harry a playful smirk.

"Right then! Everybody go ahead and eat your breakfast. Your schedules will be in your pockets shortly." Dumbledore trilled as the tables filled with food.

Sheka finally reached the "head" of the Slytherin table, stopping just in front of where Draco sat. The Malfoy heir looked up at him, his face bearing a look of superiority and pomp, though there was a wave of fear behind his eyes.

"What do you want, Rodrego?" he growled impatiently, taking a delicate bite of his eggs. "Another arse beating?"

"I believe that seat belongs to me." Sheka hissed menacingly. "I would like you to remove your skinny arse from it before I become any more irritated by your existence."

"That would have hurt me so badly if I gave a damn about what you think of me." Draco said, not even privileging Slang with a look in his direction.

In a split second, Sheka's face shifted, his snake-like features rivalling that of Lord Voldemort himself. Needless to say the look on the faces of all who could see him was priceless.

"I~ do~ not~ like~ repeating~myssself, ~Human." He half-hissed. Several people backed up in panic. Harry observed that only Blaize and Anwen were still and unprovoked and he suddenly felt his anger elevate just slightly when her gaze still followed his mate. Draco looked up at him defiantly, but after several moments of death glared passed between them, he did something that shocked every person within viewpoint of the commotion. He looked up, stood on his feet, and made way for Sheka, giving him the him the top seat in the most dignified step-down anyone had ever seen.

He had given up his spot in the Hierarchy, Draco knew this; but he was sure that if he was to serve his master properly, he had best be on the good side of this newcomer and give his lord every titbit of information he could offer.

"My apologies, Rodrego." He tilted his head up in a superior manor, as if appointing himself as Slang's right hand man. Sheka eyed him before sitting down glaring at Crabbe who was on his right side. He moved away instantly and Malfoy took his place.

Sheka smirked; the blonde menace was annoying for sure, not to mention a small threat against him (He was still feeling quite sore about having to use only Latin based spells while at Hogwarts of which he knew very little); however, the child could learn, and had learned that messing with him would only cause trouble.

He could practically see the cogs churning in his little blond head. Malfoy intended to spy for his master, and Sheka knew that he would send every detail of information he gathered to that creature. Yes…it was best to keep him in the higher ups, where he could keep an eye poised on the child's movements.

Harry sighed absently, wishing it was not against protocol to sit with the Slytherins next to his mate. He supposed it was in his nature, he thought as he took a bite of his Bellini cakes, that he should feel insecure about Sheka being amongst others, much more attractive than he. He wasn't jealous parse, just…paranoid. After all they had failed to mate the other night and he had already caused trouble to him. He would soon have to bear children to his mate. He had no clue how that would work; however, he took a wild guess he wouldn't be entirely human for that. It just wasn't possible for Male humans to carry children not even in the wizarding world, metamorphigi being the one exception. He could only assume that he would become like his mate. He purred inside as he imagined himself as a Basilisk or Naga, entwined with his Amente, and moaning out as he was pounded into in the most rough and delicious way. The thought sent a shiver down his spine and he found his already ridiculously tight pants become rather painful.

But suddenly the most awful image of his Mate and that...girl. What was with her? Why did she seem to trail her eyes after him with such interest? Why was he so affectionate with her- the way he ruffled her hair like that? What was she to him?

"Fuck." Harry felt a small tingle against his leg as his schedule appeared in his pocket. The school year had started.

He climbed out of his seat, thankful for wizarding robes and made his way to his first class, Accioing his schoolbag and joined Sheka in the hallway, mind very, very set on inquiring about that Anwen creature.

"I missed you last night Carus." He purred into Harry's ear, snaking his tongue over the shell as Harry's hand entwined with his. "I'm sorry I wasn't there." Harry however, was doing everything he could to not listen to the silky melodic torment that was now chafing his member. Focus...focus harry! You have a bone to pick with him remember? ::What's our first class?:: Harry winced visibly as he began to throb, all thoughts of that girl leaving his mind in an instant.

"Nnh ahhnk" he coughed in attempt to mask a whimper. ::M-magical History.:: Sheka chuckled and twirled his finger on the inside of Harry's palm. There was no need to say what that was doing to the poor boy.

::Mnn perfect.:: he hissed suggestively, ::I've heard those classes tend to be mundane.::

::Mmhm.:: harry nodded, biting his lip when Sheka's hand eased out of his and wrapped around his waist, not quite missing his bum.

::I'll bet I can make it enjoyable.:: harry tasted blood when Sheka's teeth scraped over his earlobe and he could only imagine what his wanton future nestmate would be doing to him during class.

:: Ngh No. Sheka.:: he suddenly growled out and slapped him away, getting an odd and confused look from the serpent. ::Stop!::

::What?:: the serpent recognised the anger on harrys face and held his shoulders:: What's wrong carus?::

::That...Anwen girl.:: Harry's eyes narrowed, showing his mate the displeasure he felt at her immediate closeness to him. ::What is she to you?:: Sheka's worried expresson instantly relaxed into an embarassed smile.

::Oh thank Slytherin!:: he rubbed the bridge of his nose, releife spelled out on his face. :: Is that all?:: Harry crossed his arms and lifted an eyebrow.

::I'm still waiting for an answer, Sheka.:: he growled, not sensing the presence appearing behind him.

::Does he suspect disloyalty of you, big brother?:: a small female hiss trilled girlishly behind him. Harry spun around and had to restrain his instinct to hex the girl long enough to register what had just happened. A dark skinned first year peered up at him with an innocently curious finger to her lip, as if inspecting him before leaning to the side with a thumbs up to said "big brother".

::You got really lucky Seryeshka! He's so cute!:: Harry's face drained of color as she began circling him, prodding his hips and stomach, muttering about how many eggs he'll produce; he looked incredulously to Sheka for an explanation, his face red with embarrassment.

::It's in her nature, Carus:: he hid his smile behind his hand as Harry slapped her hand away from his arse (do you mind!). ::She's a Cayne. A Shaman I suppose would be the human word for it.::

::So she's basilisk?:: Sheka shook his head.

::No, actually.:: harry tilted his head as the girl finally left him alone and clinged to sheka's side, earning her a small glare. ::She's-::

::Sheka.:: she poked his side, whining childishly. ::The Ghost is gonna call your name in exactly one hundred twenty point nine two seconds. I think you and Harry should go.:: Sheka nodded and took the sputtering Brunette by the arm, dragging him off to Magical History as the strange girl waved goodby.

::What on earth was that about?:: harry muttered as soon as they had sat down in the back of the room.

::Anwen is a Cayne.:: sheka began explaining again, as the ghost began to drone on about the one hundred and eightieth Goblin war. ::Her kind are one of the rarest in the magical world.::

:What to you mean?::

::She was born from a basilisks egg, but has no Serpentine form.::

::How does that make her a shaman?:: Harry was so confused. He had no idea there was so much to Basilisk society and culture, as if they were a world within themselves, which, he thought, they probably were. Werewolves were like that too, as were vampires and mermaids, now that he really pondered it.

::think of her as a seer, if it's easier for you:: sheka purred, his hand reaching over to caress harries, ::A true human seer is born from a male.:: harry's jaw dropped. Human Male pregnancy? How the hell did Sheka figure that? He'd never heard of that.

::The Seer's never speak of it.:: he continued. ::In the past, when it was more well known, the minestry would weed them out and hold them in a small community where they could collect the prophesies with ease. Eventually, they were able to hid the births from public view, and the knowledge was lost to most humans.::

::So Cayne's are just Basilisk Seer's?:: Sheka nodded.

::Anwen is, belive it or not, several thousand years older than myself. One of the first of her kind.::

::But she's just a-::

::She choses to appear so and effectively, her mind set changed with her physical age.:: sheka chuckled when harrys expression became one of overwhelming confusion.

::How am I supposed to remember all of this?:: he asked, worriedly, pretending to pay attention to Professor Binns

::Don't worry about it, Carus.:: he leaned over and kissed behind harry's ear. ::You will learn in due time::

It had been two months since school had begun, and things had gone generally without event. Sheka was top of the class, putting everything he could into his studies; and he always had time left over for cuddling a few hours with harry before curfew.

After about a week, Anwen had finally ceased her constant "inspection" of Harry and one day, had suddenly burst out of nowhere whilst they were kissing in the courtyard that harry would, in his lifetime, produce no less than sixty five children to his mate during his first pregnancy. Harry, needless to say went into hysterics (how was he supposed to hold all those kids inside him?) and once again found himself in the hospital wing, breathing into a paper bag while the Matron scolded Anwen for her lack of tact.

"Dear I know you mean well, but you must understand that Harry's only known Sheka for a few months." Madame Pomfrey was one of the few staff members informed of the situation at hand, as her medical prowess transcended human subjects. "It's a bit early for him to be thinking about such things." Anwen had instantly rushed over to Harry and began a teary eyed apology.

After that fiasco, He and Anwen had begun to get along quite well. She had taken it upon herself to teach him and Sheka about her role in Basilisk society, letting them follow her on her excursions to the edge of the Forbidden forest where she gathered herbs and dust from select patches of dirt, and brought them into the dungeons to teach them her knowledge as an accomplished apothecary.

Slughorn had grown quite fond of the Cayne and had, upon her exuberant skill with potions, allowed her access to his classroom when he was not teaching and had been devastated when she politely declined his request to initiate her into the slug club.

Along with that Harry and Sheka had been in simple terms, given The Talk. Anwen explained in the greatest detail she could about the life cycle of the Basilisk and had informed harry that he, indeed would become inhuman - though the shape taken would vary with the mate- when his magic recognised pregnancy. She had also explained the significance of the Venom that ran through Harry's blood and informed him that not only did it give him immunity to most poisons, and slight instinct changes (hence his new addiction to live food) also, minor shape shifting abilities, similar to that of his mate. He couldn't become basilisk, that was impossible, unless his animagus form was such. But he could in time and with practice, morph his facial features into a snakelike appearance.

::Does that mean Voldemo-::

::No.:: Sheka had growled, his furry evident. ::My former "master" milked me of my venom to gain immunity to it...in the process his face was permanently disfigured.::

::Human's who have not been preordained as a potential mate are not capable of communing with the venom properly::Anwen said as she inspected a flask of crushed, sun dried lemon grass, flicking it to help the powder settle. ::The morphing of his face was his magical core's attempt to push the venom into the place it would damage the least, and because of his already damaged soul, twisted heart and corrupted mind, the only thing it could reach in such a way was his physical appearance.::

In addition to the lessons on anatomy, herbology and other such things, Anwen would sit him down by the fireplace, every night in the Gryffindor common room (none of the students above third year minded too much.) and told him the history of her people, starting with the first basilisk, Quetzalcoatl, who had become regarded as a god by the Aztecs and leading so far, up to the century just before Branco Slytherin was born.

Out of everything he and his mate were being taught, though; the one thing that fascinated him the most was the Iua ritual. Every full moon, the Cayne would perform an offering Her. Harry had yet to know who "She" was, but Anwen had informed him that on the sixteenth of October she would perform the offering before the lesson.

When Blaze, Crabbe, Goyle, Malfoy, Parkinson and Wilbur Flint (Marcus' younger brother) had seen the new "Slytherin King" following the Golden boy into the dorm, they had expected to find them snuggling, or making out, or even heading up to Potter's room. But instead had been shocked to stumble upon, quite literally, every Gryffindor gathered around the fireplace watching intently as the girl Anwen stood up, telling the history of the Basilisk people, like heathens. In a matter of minutes, they two had been sucked into the group of devoted listeners.

Within a week after that, half the school, staff included was crammed into the little dorm just to hear this mysterious and exciting tale of Slytherin history.

As a result from his lessons and nightly inter house story times, Hogsmead weekends had become a bit on the mundane side in comparison. Ron and Hermione, however fun to be around, seemed to be trying to spend as much time together as they could manage. Although this slightly disappointed him, when he hoped to spend the Weekends with them, he understood completely and let them go off to Madam Puddifoots, or some other such place for their weekly date.

It was just as well, really. More time for him and Sheka to spend together. The two would usually take the day off for a stroll around the village, have a butterbeer at the hogs head, and then venture off into the hills to visit Sirius' old hideout. Harry didn't know why this place was so special to him, seeing as it probably held the least amount of memories of the deceased man. But that didn't change the fact that every time they sat down in the cave (which was now supervised with multiple charms upon its discovery by the ministry) an ecstatic cry of "CHICKEN!" would run through his mind, making him feel like laughing and crying all at once.

It was quite frustrating to the couple, that every time they tried to be alone in either the Slytherin or Gryffindor dormitories, someone had the bright idea of walking in, effectively ruining the moment, as at the moment it was a terrible idea to let someone see "Slang-Prince of Slytherins" in his basilisk form. Regardless of his position, they doubted that the general population of either house would not go off screaming in terror, effectively jeopardising their position; and Harry refused to let Sheka remain human for their first time. And now it had gotten to the point where both had become quite testy, which led them to where they were now; wrestling on the floor, grabbing and clawing at each other's hair and faces in a manner most couldn't decide weather to be aggressive or sexual.

The two rolled around moaning and growling and hissing illegibaly as they tore at each other, merely letting out their frustration in the only way they could think. Neville ignored them, and made way for the two as they readied for the trip to the Village. Ron however could just see themselves being late.

"No offence guys," He asked. "But could you maybe get ready to go? Hermione is staying behind today and I'd kind of like to bring the person who's actually getting a tattoo when I go to La Aubepine."

With a grunt harry slammed Sheka's face into the floor by the back of his head and held his arms behind his back.

"Hah!" Harry exclaimed in triumph as his lover to be struggled under him. Sheka smirked inside, glad he had let him win this one. It was worth seeing the look of pride on his love's face as he stood up, brushing himself off. "Right then." the serpent took the hand offered him by Neville.

"How long do you think this will take, Ronald?" he asked throwing on an open silk shirt. Ron turned to him and turned a bit pink around the ears and cheeks at the sight of his semi bare chest. He still had not come to terms with his bisexuality and quickly turned away to see Neville smirking at him, licking his lips absently.

"I see you like the shirt I bought for him last week Ron." he purred, striding over to him as Harry and Sheka snickered behind their hands.

::Ten galleons says he'll come out by next week.:: harry whispered. The basilisk nodded with a mischievous grin as he pulled harry into a provocative embrace.

::I'll match that.:: he hummed into his ear as his hands snaked into harry's back pockets, giving his arse a playful squeeze. ::But I say by tomorrow night.:: his heated breath skimmed over Harry's throat, who swallowed visibly in attempt to keep from whimpering in need.

::ngh Amente-nmhh...:: his protests were interrupted by a pair of lips pressing feather-light against his own before trailing over to nibble the lobe of his ear.

::Why dont we skip the Hogsmead trip once more Carusssss...:: he whispered sensuously, earning himself a shiver from the boy in his arms. ::I am ssssure there is a broom closet Filch doesn't know about.::

Harry's eyes glazed dramatically as the image of their hot sweaty bodies pressed against each other in a cramped cupboard, and he could not withhold a rather loud moan as his pants tented considerably.

"Get a room you two." Neville laughed as his own victim was pressed against the wall under him, blushing like a virgin. Sheka scowled and shot him a glare.

"You're one to talk!" he threw back, reverting to the teenage persona he had made a habit of portraying during classes and meals. "It wouldn't hurt you to cast a silencing spell when you're sucking Ronniekin's face off all night." Ron all but squeaked and pushed Neville off gaining his composure as best he could.

"We er..." he coughed. "We should go now." he said wiping the spittle from his chin as casually as he could. "Gon-gonna be late." Harry who had since come back to earth, exchanged a knowing smirk with Neville.

Harry gazed around the room, eyes darting every which way to catch as many of the designs and photos portrayed on the walls. Behind him, Ron, Neville, and Sheka explored the surprisingly large tattoo parlour. Every inch of the walls were lined with the most extravagant designs harry had ever seen; none of which could have possibly been done without magic, what with the fact that they moved.

Over in the corner was a rather tough looking read head, wearing leathers and dragon hide. His arm was perched on a cushioned arm rest while a rather busty woman pressed her wand against his flesh, drawing in the design as his teeth gritted just visibly.

"Be right with you loves." she announced, not looking up as the man turned their way. Blue eyes widening in surprise, dragon fang earring dangling from his left ear.

"Harry!" he grinned, looking directly at said boy with a suggestive glint before wandering to his brother and the other two. "Hey Ron, Nev."

"Hi, Bill." Ron smiled and led them over. "What's up?" Bill's eyes skimmed back to harry, who was trying not to blush at the hint of a leer in his direction.

"Nothing much." the Man glanced over to the Sheka, who stood next to Harry. "Just adding some colour to my scarab here. By the way its nice to see you again, Slang." He offered, noticing his arm was wrapped around Harry's. Bill tried not to pout; teasing him was off limits the moment he spotted that.

"Likewise." the Serpent nodded his head politely. He knew of the fling he and harry had partaken in a while ago. Bill must be a wise man to have removed that appalling tone from his voice so quickly. "How is your Fiance?" he asked, giving one last hidden warning to the human.

"Oh Fleur's fine." Bill winced as the wand prodded his arm a bit too hard for his tastes ("sorry.") "She's a bit panicky though. Her mother has been a bit too overbearing lately, so she stayed home in an attempt to avoid her." He nodded almost invisibly in recognition of the hint. "How have you and Harry been doing?" He said as Harry wandered off to the counter with the others to look at what he may want.

"Well enough." Sheka tilted his head a bit. "Though Harry's developed some habits I didn't for see." Bill chortled, remembering Ron's last letter home mentioning how Harry are rodents like he himself ate chocolate frogs. It had been strange to say the least.

"You're all set, love." said the woman as she stood up, dabbling his arm with scar resistant. Bill smiled and thanked her as he walked over and sat by Sheka on the other side of the counter.

"Charlie mentioned that happening sometimes with interspecies mating." He offered. "Fleur's father developed a habit of turning into a harpy lookalike when he was angry enough after they began courting." Sheka looked at him in surprise.

"Your brother, is the Dragon specialist is he not?" Bill nodded.

"Yeah, but really he knows more about magical creatures than anyone I've met. It was an obsession of his for the longest time. Still is really."

"Do you think he may be able to offer some help with Harry and I? We are not sure what we will do if he...gets pregnant on our first...yeah..."the basilisk wanted to scream at himself for being so bashful about talking of these things. 'Stupid human emotions.' Bill's eyes widened.

"You mean you haven't..." sheka shook his head and sighed. "Merlin, you have a lot of self control."

"Not really." Sheka grumbled, resting his chin on his fists. "We just cant find a decent place where we wont get caught, and the ro-"

"Room of requirement doesn't appear if it thinks you'll use it for sex." Bill crossed his legs and glanced over to the three teens at the counter, chatting with the woman over a booklet of designs. "Trust me, not one person graduates Hogwarts without finding that out." He grinned, remembering a date that ended under the head table rather than his planned night at the ROR.

"Spot on."

"Best place..." Bill spoke slowly, trying to keep the mood casual. "I'd have to say is in the northwest forbidden forrest." Sheka quirked an eyebrow at him.

"...really?" Bill snorted at the look he was given.

"you know the old gnarled tree by the lakes edge? Head straight for the forrest from there. Its one of the few unicorn mating grounds here in scotland. This time of year its considered neutral ground." Sheka's face brightened.

"Are you serious?" he grinned, tone changing drastically for the better.

Bill winked and stood up. "You'd better join your boy, Slang." he grinned jerking his head over to Harry. "He's looking a bit lost as to what to get."

"You heading home?" Sheka asked.

"Yep. Fleur's making some Sheperds pie and I aint missing it." he winked and walked out the door. "See you guys around!" he waved. Harry and the others waved back.

"See you later Bill!"

"Bie bill. I'll send you an owl, alright."

"Sure thing Ron. Bie." And he stepped out just as the slytherin squeezed between Neville and his Harry.

"What are you looking at Carus?" He asked directing his gaze to the booklet.

"I think I decided on getting something on my hip." he shot his friend a pout. "But Ron thinks its too girly and to get it on my chest or shoulder.

"What kind of bloke gets a tattoo on his hip?" Ron defended. Neville rolled his eyes as he muttered something about, "Not manly".

"I think hip tattoos are sexy." Nev insisted. "I wouldn't mind if you had one, Ron." he poked the boy in the stomach, making him squeak and jump back. "Something feminine, like swirls or cherries." Ron glared as best he could, but his blushing cheek's betrayed him.

"I'm thinking something small." offered Sheka with an affectionate smile, as he wrapped his arm around Harry's waist. "What do you think miss?" he asked the woman who had been staring heatedly at Neville.

"Wha-oh! um." she glanced at harry. "How about one of these?" she flipped the pages to the very back where she had a very, very old photograph of a tattoo done in runes she had never quite been able to find elsewhere. "Not many find these appealing though, as I have no clue what the runes here mean."

Sheka gazed in shock at the photograph, recognising the tattoo emediately. The runes that spiralled around each other in a Celtic knot were in parseltongue. Not many knew that there was a written language for the Serpents, as most had no clue of the Basilisks shape-shifting abilities. But there it was, right there, in front of him. His Father's arm adorned with his own special mark of recognition in the Councilliu de Creaturie. How had this woman gotten a hold of such a priceless photograph?

"Where did you get this?" he asked in awe, reaching out to touch the protective sheet over it.

"I'm not sure." she shrugged. "It was here before I came. But this building is almost as old as Hogwarts. It started out as a Sword smith's Shoppe." Sheka weighed the situation a moment as harry and the tattoo clad brunette agreed that this would be his choice for the day.

"Miss er..."

"Call me Susan, love."

"Susan, would it be possible that I buy that photograph off of you when we are done?" She looked at him strangely, as if wondering why he would want something like that.

"Um...I suppose." she lifted an eyebrow. "Why?"

"I would like to study it." Sheka said simply. The witch smiled and tapped her chin as she too looked at it.

"It is rather amazing isn't it?" she said. "I wonder who's it is?"

"that is what I would like to find out."

"It wont do me much good here as nobody before you and Mr. Potter decided on it." she concluded. "I suppose ten galleons would be reasonable, considering the age."

"I will give you twenty." Sheka offered generously, pulling out a small sack as she gasped at such an offer. "I have a feeling it is worth much more than you think." the lady was practically bouncing on the balls of her feet.

"Oh my!" she noticed the red head staring as her top threatened to ride under her overly exposed cleavage, and blushed as she calmed down. "Well then, Mr. Po-"

"Harry is fine." the teen offered with a smile.

"Alright harry, dear. Lets get you all cleaned up." she led him behind the counter as the others watched.

Harry removed his shirt and set it on the counter where Sheka stood, flashing him a nervous smile as he sat down and leaned back on the cushioned bench as Susan sat on a low stool and pressed her wand to his hip with a quick scourgify.

"Okay hun, this is going to sting a little." he nodded and promptly bit his lip when she began her work, muttering softly as she drew the runes into the skin of his hip.

"Told you."

Albus sighed serenely as he stood at the balcony of the astronomy tower, his hands hanging limply at his sides as he let the soft breeze of the Scottish countryside caress his elderly, worn face, a softly spoken whisper echoing through the wind as if calling out to him. He missed the days when he was young, carefree and thoughtless where he could enjoy the magic of nature. Down below, he watched as two figures slipped out into the night, laughing jubilantly. He shook his head with a chuckle as the two figures dissappeared into the forbidden forrest, feeling the fool for preventing the two precious boys, no; the boy and his ancient lover from bonding so long. He had been so worried for harry, but after watching them for the last month, he could see how ready his little golden boy was, and wished them the best of luck tonight.

"Headmaster." Albus, blinked and came back to reality as quickly as he could before turning to see Remus Lupin walking over to him with a furious expression.

"Remus," he said as pleasantly as he could. "What brings you back so early?" the werewolf only glared all the more, confusing the elderly wizard.

"We want out." He said simply.

Dumbledore frowned at the blunt reply. It was not angry, nor irritated, just…contemplative.

"I see…" he said softly, gazing at the floor. He knew exactly what must have happened and cursed under his breath. Severus...his all but adopted son had made a pact with him when the boy had become a spy. Should his "master" ever harm him to the point of near death, he would be permitted to withdraw from the order and retire from his job at Hogwarts. It was the least he could have done for making such a sacrifice.

"Does he wish to continue living here at Hogwarts?" Albus looked up at him, hoping to Merlin that Severus was going to recover.

"After my fruitless efforts to convince him not to," he murmured. "He has decided to come live here, though he wishes to continue teaching."

"Well, Horace has taken potions this year. I suppose he would want defense?" Dumbledore offered, "We are depending on The Grey Lady to teach as best she can, but she doesn't particularily enjoy it."

"He wants History of Magic." Remus said. "I however would love to take on Defense." Dumbledore looked genuinely surprised.

"I was not aware he was showing interest in that subject."

"I never let on." said a hoarse yet, no less snarky voice behind them. Remus looked aghast.

"Severus what are you doing out of-"

"I was always a rather fast healer, Remus." Snape drawled as best he could with a voice that sounded like he had swallowed steel wool one too many times. "As for my reasons for wishing to teach History, I have no desire to assist my students in learning more spells that can do each other harm." He said, almost sorrowfully. "I would rather be teaching them to learn from the mistakes of past, instead of letting history repeat its horrors again."

Remus gazed upon Severus, stunned. He had never known Severus was a pacifist.

"How could I not be Remus." He murmured, having heard his thoughts through his habitual Leggimacy. When he spoke next, the emptiness that had been slowly consuming his heart for two decades finally shinned through. It was bleak, and sorrowful, the man had not had a reason to live for many years, but had been unable to die. "I have lost everything to this god forsaken war." but only moments after letting his internal turmoil become visible, his lips spread into something, neither had seen on his face in over seventeen years.

"I want to help others avoid that." he said in a hopeful and almost optimistic tone.

::Sheka! Please!:: harry begged humorously as he was dragged along by his snakey companion, as he felt the cool air of the outside hit his skin. ::Can't you tell me what this is about?::

::Can't tell you Carus.:: Sheka pulled him along faster, their bare feet crinkling in the dewy grass and dry leaves as he led the way into the forest. ::It's a surprise.::

Sheka's heart pounded excitedly as they ventured deeper and deeper into the darkness of the trees, as they rustled in the wind. For the past month he had been staying up to all ours of the night while harry slept soundly, planning and searching for all that he could think of who would be worthy of helping him with this task. Harry of course knew nothing of this, and only weeks ago, he had no idea himself.

::You did WHAT?:: Anwen shreiked in horror when he told her of Dumbledore's interruption of their mating. ::Sheka you absolute ingrate! You had better thank that man on bended knee for stopping you!::

::What do you mean?:: Sheka was quite taken aback at her outburst, but was suddenly very worried. Not much could make a Cayne loose their temper.

::The mating between one of our kind and the human counterpart is SACRED!:: she smacked his arm, eyes blazing with scandalous furry. ::You can't just go off and mate with him on any old day like a common whore! There's the purification and thebonding ceremony! Not to mention its tradition to welcome him formerly into the clan! In the name of all that is Her! I swear I will-::

She had continued like that for well over twenty minutes until she finally calmed down, only to sit him down and give him a lecture on the whole process and had promptly helped him begin it.

Anwen had agreed that the mating ground would be perfect for its neutrality and swiftly had gone to inspect it for the best places for each part of the cerimony. Sheka had contacted Esther Ollivander, who had assisted him via owl post invite the Councilli de Creaturei and – he smiled to himself- some select others. He was thankful that Fawks herself lived on the school grounds, and had taken great pleasure in inviting her personally.

Anwen had spent the Hogsmead weekends at the neutral ground, doing merlin knows what to purify and prepare it. Endless hours on her part of cleaning and communing had finally paid off, though; Sheka could feel the energy radiating from miles away.

::Could you at least give me a hint, Amente?:: harry pleaded, looking around himself as they ventured forward, noticing the almost complete absence of sound, other than the wind in the trees and the crickets on the forest floor.

::Trust me, Harry.:: sheka hummed out as they finally slowed down, drawing harry into the crook of his arm. ::You want this to be a surprise.:: Harry shivered, unsure of whether it was the cool air or his mate's voice that sent the tremor down his spine. The way he had spoken just now...it sounded promising.

::Harry...:: Sheka suddenly stopped him and took his hands. ::Do you promise to do what you are told, when the time comes? His voice was firm, and refused to be argued with in any way; demanding complete obedience. This worried harry a little. What was going on, and why was Sheka suddenly acting so...odd?

::Sheka wha-:: he froze in mid sentence when yellow eyes locked with his, demanding silence, but assuring safety as well. Harry did not know why he was being dragged out here, or why he was being made to vow obedience. But he trusted those eyes...and anything his mate told him to do...well almost anything, he would do.

::Okay...:: he murmured. Sheka nodded and released Harry's hands, placing a soft, affectionate kiss to his forehead.

::Undress Carus:: harry nodded and remained silent as he removed his robe and stripped down to his boxers. Sheka waved his wand through the air and conjured a sheer, brackish green robe and nodded to his mate with a gentile smile, all harshness gone from his tone as his hand caressed harry's neck. ::Everything.:: Harry blushed and looked around, as if worried that someone would see. Normally he would have been fine with it. After all he had gone hunting in the Fen and in this very wood with Sheka on countless time, always stripping down for lack of the need for clothing. But the way his Amente was acting, and the feel of the venom in his blood made him feel as if under a spotlight. Nonetheless he removed them and allowed Sheka to robe him trying not to lean in and moan at his touch. Hell, he felt so...wanton tonight. What was up with him? His very veins just screamed at him to jump his serpentine lover and make love with him all night. But that invisible hand was always there, just strong enough to hold him back, assuring him that waiting would be better.

::Follow.:: Sheka's hiss became deeper and sooooo much more seductive as he shifted into his basilisk form, his coils extending into his full sixty feet as he slithered away. Harry did as told, and followed, eyes darting everywhere as if unconsciously searching for something.

It wasn't long before the quiet began driving him almost as mad as, the endless walk; however with every step, the evidence of distant music grew louder and louder. The crunching of leaves and dirt under his feet were non-existent, as was the whispering of the breeze as it blew his hair askew; replaced by the sound of laughter, music and idle chatter as they approached a veil of willow branches that spread for them allowing them access to the astounding sight within.

They had reached a large, open clearing, where the night sky shone and shimmered above him, looking down at the massive string of lamps around the edge of the clearing. Frolicking around himself and Sheka was an array of creatures making merry, chattering and laughing together in mixes of magical creatures he never thought would consort with.

Through the sky above him came a great cloud of black smoke as several dementors arrived at the scene, dropping their hoods to reveal, not the horrid faceless holes that he had seen previously, but pale, blue eyed creatures who's silver hair flowed to the ground, smiled on their faces as their icy presence warmed into a sunny glow. Watching as they glided in all directions, leaving a trail of new plant life behind them Harry, who was absolutely flabbergasted at the sight of them, now had a hunch as to what they did with the happy memories they leached.

Towards the opposite end was a group of fairies and nymphs drinking from a fountain of wine that poured from out of thin air, just beside to a large array of strange, but elaborately decorative food around which several dwarves, chimera and thestrals had gathered.

Several phoenixes sat at a large makeshift table, close by to where the adult vampires seemed to be keeping mostly to themselves, save one or two veela draped over their shoulders looking as if they were ready for a "walk through the woods". Even the wolf cubs ran about wrestling and tumbling about with the vampire children, something that harry had thought to be unheard of.

Everywhere he turned there was some other activity of celebration, weather it be dancing, singing, drinking, or just talking amongst others. It got him to wonder what the occasion was, and why he seemed to be the only human here. Though when Sheka led him into the fray, he cared not, and proceeded to observe, wanting very much to go and join in the fun.

Again harry's eyes were directed into the air when a loud thunderclap sounded out and a large pole of fire materialized, where at least a dozen dragons had perched themselves so as not to take up room of those grounded to the forest floor. One or two he noticed, were smirking at him and the welsh, he could have sworn had nudged the Horntail next to him. Before he averted his eyes, said dragon had actually winked, as if he knew something harry didnt.

Off to his immediate right several sirens sang to their hearts content, and harry had to suppress a giggle when he noticed the gnomes who were lumbering towards them like drooling zombies in a trance.

But his attention was dragged over to the very centre of the clearing, where a Celtic band of fauns played nearby to where they entered the gathering their tune speeding up to meet the calls of the crowd for a more jaunty tune. From the left to the right there seemed to be an endless amount of creatures he didn't even know how to identify.

Up in the trees on the outer edge were several of what looked to be sprites sitting among the edges swinging back and fourth as their wooden wine goblets sloshed about, splashing the heads of the line dancing...goblins? There was no doubt about it, the sharp menacing teeth, the wrinkled faces and normally grimacing frowns were spread into surprisingly warm smiles. And every last one of them was dancing a faced paced minuette to the lively music.

'It's official' harry thought as he watched the grinning creatures. 'Hell's frozen over.'

As he reached the other end, he had spotted several Naga and Banshee dancing lively with what appeared to be a very drunk werewolf. In the stream near the rightmost end were several merpeople splashing about with the kelpies as the doxies played with and braided their green manes of hair. Out of nowhere a giant mass of kappas burst out of the river, giggling and running off towards the other end, followed closely by a hoard of what appeared to be miniature laviathans.

Everyone, be they either dark, light or grey, was laughing, joking about and running from group to group, greeting each other as if old time friends. It was as if everyone here was close family.

As they finally reached the group where several other basilisk's sat, some merely chatting with the others, and some snuggling with, as harry could now see, the other human's who accompanied them. All of whom looked at he and sheka with welcoming smiled, urging them to join.

::Welcome:: Sheka said happily when he saw harrys smiling face.. ::to the Councilli de Creaturei.::

yeah i know its another filler, but i had to lead up to the smex in a plotty way. *smirks* yes my freaky darlings. i said smex. soon, the long awaited lemon shal be uploaded! wahahaha!