A/N: Yeah I know, author note not supposed to be here. But it will be short. I got a lot of comments and PM's that people didn't like Dom Draco and Sub Harry stories. And so just thought I would let you know that its not really that way at all. I don't see Kyler/Harry as a sub. Slow to trust and wary, but not a sub. And Draco in my mind is always going to be arrogant and get away with what other people allow him to. He wouldn't be Draco otherwise. Then again that's just in my mind and imagination. Okay, stepping off my little author box now...

Disclaimer: Same as first chapter.

On with the story...

Draco was sitting in the Slytherin common room when Blaise and Hermione entered, and saw him writing notes furiously with two owls ready to take them off. Blaise had gotten a note from his best friend the previous night just stating that he had found his mate and would be back today to give details. Of course he didn't say what time, so Blaise had dragged Hermione to the common room every half hour to see if Draco's trunks had arrived. It exhausted Hermione to the point where she really didn't have a whole lot of interest, or was hiding it well, when she dropped on the couch and closed her eyes with a loud huff..

Blaise gave her a withering look, but when he saw it wasn't reaching her, only gave another little huff internally.

Draco looked up and smirked at his closest friend. Blaise was standing there with his hands on his hips waiting for an explaination and evidently not willing to wait long.

"So get on with it!" Blaise said agitated when a few seconds lapsed. He was positively beaming with excitement for his housemate. "Details Malfoy! Details!"

Malfoy, finally finished with his notes gave them to the owls to fly off with, and sat back at last content. He had not felt this content in over a year's time.

"Well what would you like to know?"

"Bloody hell Malfoy! Who? What? Where? When? How? In order. Go! Pretend you're a gossiping Hufflepuff, not a snarky Slytherin." With that Blaise huffed, moving his girlfriend's pretending sleeping body over so he could sit down with her curled up by his side.

Malfoy only chuckled.

"He's acceptable." Draco saw Blaise give him a withering look and finally relented somewhat. First he put up a silencing ward around the room, having no taste of having this conversation overheard.

"He was at Crescenzo, and I met him this morning for a few hours. Which of course stays between the three of us, or I swear as a Malfoy to start vanishing vital organs out of your body."

Blaise merely nodded. Draco said it in a pleasant manner that they both always delivered the most serious of threats in, and knew in this instance Draco really would do as threatened. Which was fine by him since his girlfriend was already included in the conversation and Hermione was the only person he would possibly want to tell. Not enough information he thought though. Finally Blaise realized he was going to have to take the bull by the horns.

"Good looking?" At Malfoy's predatory grin, Blaise only laughed.

"Is that all you can think of?...He'll be lucky if I ever let him out of bed." Blaise laughed and Hermione finally stopped playing asleep only to wrinkle her nose is disgust, and a muttered "men."

She did have a more appropriate question to her mind. "In favor of the mating or against?" At this Draco lost his smile and thought.

"Somewhere in the middle but extremely open to it all. The veela allure definitely plays a part. He's powerful, I could feel it radiating it off of him. I mean he has astounding control, and seems superbly trained but the raw power is there. I will deny it if ever asked, but more power then anyone I know. He's stubborn and willfull. Not someone that can be pushed around which father tells me is a blessing. He's extremely interesting overall." Draco said with finality, thinking of the little spell his Emerald had placed on him, and without a wand in sight. Come to think of it he had levitated the tea over to the both of them both of them with out a wand either, Draco thought.

"Which house would he be in?" Blaise asked digging deeper, and hoping that this Crescenzo man was someone he could get along tolerably well with.

Draco pondered at this. His mate didn't seem to fit into any category. "I would guess he really is a combination of all four or maybe three best houses. Loyalty is there, but he doesn't appear to be the type to rush into things. Bookish definitely, but not obsessive or nerdish. Sneaky, but doesn't care for the blood fanatics. And he's not pureblood, though I forgot to ask what he was."

At that Draco looked down to his catalog putting stars next to what he wanted to order in the morning, without realizing the shock he had caused to the two people across for him.

Blaise finally stuttered. "Malfoy, you and your parents forgot to ask about his lineage? Were you feeling alright? Did he cast a spell on you?" Draco looked up and saw Hermione just barely recovering from her own shock. They were right though. It definitely was not in character for him to not care about a person's blood. But after he had seen his mate on paper, it just didn't matter. Nor to him nor his parents. He was his mate. He didn't go over the oddness in that, just took it for what it was.

Outwardly he just arrogantly shrugged his shoulders. He would make it known right away that he had no problem with his mate's blood, and therefore no one else would have a problem with it either. He was after all a Malfoy. His word was law in Slytherin house. Blaise understood the gesture clear as day and let the subject drop. If it didn't matter to the Malfoy's then it wouldn't matter to anyone else. It really was not anyone's business anyway.

Malfoy went on to tell them about the visit or general points, and nothing in depth. His relationship with Kyler would be a private one, not that he really cared or gave a shit what anyone else thought, but he could tell his mate had a private side. And since he wasn't sure how large that side was, he would curb the information he gave out to his best friend. Blaise seemed to understand this as well. No longer asking questions but accepting the surface information he was given. It had been the same with Hermione the farther along they had gotten in their' relationship. Potential spouses seemed to be the one gray area and sort of off limits to gossip about to him and Malfoy. They told each other more then they told anyone else about their relationships, but it was definitely less then the flings they used to have.

He did have one question for his friend though. He looked around to make sure no other Slytherins were around, since no one accept his Mione could ever accuse him of being a softy.

"Intelligent bloke? Personality okay?"

Draco silently stared at his friend. Blaise had been with him through everything, even changing allegiance, although the Italian in front of him had always edged more towards the light anyways. He deserved to know a little more.

"Intelligent definitely. I expected that considering the school he's at. Personality so far is fine. He's serious although I think he could be down right charming once he stops being scared of the whole situation. I can't blame him though, its a lot to take in. And a little slow to trust but I think it will work out quite well. "

Blaise and Hermione just smiled to each other, but then turned to a frown at the racket abbove them.

"I TOLD YOU NOT TO CHEAT OFF ME!" and the interrupting, "AS IF I WOULD CHEAT OFF SOMEONE WITH THE INTELLIGENCE OF MY OWL!" -CRASH-

Draco, Hermione, and Blaise were all thinking the exact same thing. First years were finally bonding as a family. Ah, the first arguments of brotherhood.

Draco and Blaise both looked at each other, and silently held out their hands.

"Rock Paper Scissors!" They both said in unision. Blaise snorted in disgust and silently went up to deal with the two first years. No one would ever let it get out that he and Draco were the mediators of the seventh years, and sometimes he wanted to put first years in a full body bind for some much needed quiet time.

Draco sat looking at Hermione as she watched Blaise stomp up the stirs with a bemused smile. The arguing had gone quiet as soon as the stomping had begun, and the first years realized they had been heard.

Draco sat staring at the young woman in front of him.

"You know he thinks of you more than a girlfriend right? I mean…..hell….don't hurt him." Draco saw Hermione surprised look and mentally cursed himself. He felt like a bloody idiot having to have the such clichéd talk with her.

"I won't. You ever think of the possibility that he would be more likely to hurt me though?" He was sure Hermione meant it seriously but he could only laugh, but quickly saw the young woman frown.

"Yes, and while he has me and few other on his side if you hurt him. Well I don't think your house, or the Order would let him live more then a few minutes past their knowledge of him hurting you. And trust me, my friend isn't that stupid. Seriously, if he hadn't been completely sure of you or himself, even if he doesn't realize it, he never would have approached you in the first place. You never noticed him watching your every move starting around fourth year. That man hated Krum with avengence. Him hurt you? He wouldn't live to see the end of the day."

Hermione's frown turned to a small smile as she stared off obviously thinking it all through. Draco picked up all his parchment and walked away quite pleased. That warning had gone better then he anticipated. God he must be going mental; A pleasant talk with a Gryffindor. The world was going insane.

XXXXXXXXX

A similar conversation had taken place between Kyler and his friends that afternoon. Nickolai of course wanted to interrogate the veela with in an inch of his life, but Rose hushed him up quickly. Nickolai was extremely protective of his good friends, and Kyler was as close to family to him as you could get. He wasn't sure about this whole thing, but knew that the Headmaster would look out for Kyler and not let anything get out of hand. And Kyler, well he could handle himself just fine when it came to fights, but Nickolai knew his friend had a couple vulnerable spots, and this veela seemed to hit all of them.

Money first of all. They had researched the family, and found that they were one of the richest in the world. It would take some getting used to. Kyler had been very ready and prepared to make his own way, his friend thirsted for it. Now, it was being taken out of his hands. This veela would probably end up giving Kyler everything he wanted, and Nickolai worried that might end up being a problem. Kyler wouldn't like it or accept it graciously.

Another was the whole family aspect. Everyone in the Academy liked and respected Kyler, some people for his brains, or personality, power, helpful nature, or other things, but few actually got close to him. Especially not in the last six months. Kyler had closed up a bit on that avenue. Not that Kyler had shut out his good friends but he had not been willing to really let new people into his life. Kyler didn't take betrayal lightly.

Kyler had once told Nick he lived by the phrase, "you forgive and forget, you'll relive it and regret it."

Once you betrayed Ky expect he would get passed it in time but never ever expect to get close to him again. Betrayal in Kyler's eyes meant you were cut off completely from ever being important again in his life again. Harsh in Nick's opinion. He hoped the veela recognized this side of his friend, because it was a big deal. Ky had no problem striking out when he was hurt. Six months ago his now ex had walked around with the word "whore" on her forehead for a couple days, before Ky calmed down enough to end the spell that no one could remove. Again harsh Nick thought, and made certain no one ever crossed his friend again.

Nick would be sure to question this veela when he saw him. Kyler could take care of himself, but brothers took care of brothers.

XXXXXXX

By dinner time word had broke out that Malfoy had found his mate. There were whispers and looks everywhere, more so at the fact that Draco was joking and talking normally to the other Slytherins. A couple days ago that would never have happened, he would have stayed surrounded by his friends and quiet during dinner, glaring at the rest of world before he would stalk off to his rooms. The search combined with the dreams and minimal sleep had taken their' toll over the passed year. Even students that didn't particularly like or know Malfoy smiled seeing him obviously re-energized.

Everyone was curious as to who the mate was, though obviously it was no one in Hogwarts. Rumors did say that it was a male, which wasn't anything new but it seemed confirmed. And with Malfoy's relaxed nature, everyone took note that he must be quite pleased with nature's pick for him. More than a couple students were already jealous that it hadn't been them. They had always been a little jealous but now they had a person to be jealous of an not just an idea.

If Draco had any idea of the fluster he was causing he definitely didn't show it. Even the headmaster was looking at him in barely concealed amusement. He'd had a visit from Draco's father early in the afternoon confirming that his son had found his mate, but wouldn't tell him where he was located, the boy's name, or any relevant information. Lucius had remained a closed book professing that the boy origins and placement didn't matter, and soon enough he would be a Malfoy. Dumbledore didn't really care one way or the other, though was made considerably more comfortable when he was assured that the mate was not aligned with the Dark Lord. That could have turned out to be some trouble, but Dumbledore kept a few things in his arsenal of magic should that have happened. It would not have been allowed for Draco to mate with a dark wizard and threaten the spy they had in his father. So beyond the reassurance, and he was certain Lucius was telling the truth, he really didn't care who the mate was.

Seeing Draco this evening piqued his interest a little more now that he saw the young man. Everyone could see that a huge weight had been lifted off the boy's shoulders. He was chatting with his friends and joking around. Laughing, the boy was actually laughing with real humor. It would be interesting Dumbledore admitted to see what kind of mate young Draco had. Lucius had not told him much but it was enough for now, and Severus who had gotten a full report on the match seemed fine with it. It was even better when Lucius stated that he was going to step up getting information since the search for his son in law was over. Was positive news, and definitely in his favor, the head master thought with a smile.

He'd had another meeting just today with the order. Again no good or new information on Harry Potter. There simply never was though. They were making strides in other ways though, and Lucius stepping up more would be of great help. Now, he thought wearily, if they could only start making headway on a way to vanquish the Dark Lord that agreed with the damned prophesy.

XXXXXXX

Draco was getting ready for bed when his Godfather came in the room and ordered the rest of the people to leave with his usual sneer. Actually Draco was quite surprised that his Godfather had left him alone this long. So, Draco sat on the edge of his bed waiting for Snape to stop pacing the floor in front of him.

"Well let's hear what your father failed to report to me." Snape always had a habit of making his questions sound like orders Draco mused. He would have to instruct his relations on that before they met Kyler. Merlin only knew what Kyler would do to them, Draco thought with pride.

"Nothing much I would guess." Draco said blandly knowing that his Godfather would become agitated at his vagueness. Even though he was no longer a child, Draco still took pleasure in causing him some irritation.

"Your father says you were alone with the boy for forty-five minutes and didn't say much about what happened afterward, so I would guess there is plenty your father did not report upon." Snape said it all so matter of fact that Draco rolled his eyes.

"And so what makes you think I would tell you if I chose not to tell my father?" Snape merely snorted and waited for the young man to continue. They seemed to always play this game. Lucius would get half the details and Severus would get other details, and then the two would get together and put the pieces together.

"Honestly I told him more about myself then the other way around. He doesn't trust me at all, which is I suppose expected, but will change in time. He didn't talk much, so it is more just feelings I got from him and ideas. Time will tell if they are correct. Actually I half way expected him to tell me he was trying to find a way out of the veela bond." At this Draco smirked remembering the look on Kyler's face. The considering look, judging all his options.

"Well we all know there are several options, and now that you've met him, would you like me to start researching them more thoroughly? With contact now established son, you have more time to look for other options." Snape had brought forth many in the beginning and wanted to make sure his Godson knew he would support the use of them, but Draco looked at him murderously instead.

"Snape, he's mine! Any small thoughts of options flew out the window the moment I saw him."

Snape actually colored a bit at his Godsons declaration, thinking how kids grew up so fast. He tried not to think about the extreme sexual nature of part veelas, and really had no interest going there. At the same time he was a little amused, and finally chuckled.

"That gifted genetically, eh? Or the bond?" Snape looked at Draco an smirked, while Draco turned a huge grin on him.

"Genetic jack pot in my opinion, certainly. However, the bond is there. Maybe not on his end yet, but definitely on mine." For one of the few times Draco could remember Snape went into full on laughter.

"There is however a question that suppose I could take your advice on. He seems to be closed off a little emotionally, or maybe I just notice it more because of the bond. I get the impression that he likes things very ordered not in a weird way but in a nothing outside his comfort zone way I suppose you could term it. So do I let him take things at his speed or force them along? And he seems to have issues with money. I mentioned that we were somewhat wealthy and his temper, and what a temper that was, got the best of him." Draco looked off a little confused by what he was remembering.

"Well my dragon, the first only you can know by watching and observation. Everyone has a past and buttons that set them off. Take things a step at a time with him. As for the wealth, I have always found that there really are only a couple reactions that people with out huge wealth react to it. Either they want it, despise it, or make plans to get it their own way. Obviously your young man doesn't have the first. Could be the second, but most likely the third. Depending on his situation, you offering him a pile of gallons may not make him like you at all. So be careful. If he has made his own plans to success you won't want to minimize them."

Draco nodded thoughtfully, as Snape then bid him a good night and good luck in the morning. He would have to go to Lucius and start asking some questions and play both ends. Neither Lucius nor Draco would give him specifics on the young man. No name, no place, no hints. And Snape, being a Snape, wanted to know more, this was his Godson's future for Merlin's sake!

XXXXXXXX

It was early morning and Draco had just shipped off his final catalogue order to the robe makers, and various other places. Now that he knew his mate, he was able to decide what would look good on him. Of course he wouldn't be giving anything to his Emerald until he figured out a way to do it in a way that would ensure the clothing and gifts were not blown up upon being received. Kyler seemed to have a decent amount of pride, Draco thought with a smile. He would fit in as a Malfoy, Draco was sure of it. However, right now it made things a little more complicated, since he doubted his mate would just accept gifts. Even if he needed them.

His parents had been able to get general student information out of the headmaster. School attire only, which meant Kyler would need a wardrobe at some point and that took some time. Students also were not allowed much in the way of personal objects, one because it promoted homesickness and two because they were gone such a long time students were usually traumatized by the differences that happened while away at school. Leaving your baby sister, and coming home to a teenager tend to provoke negative responses. So no family photographs were allowed of living people. Other than that it was more because no students went anywhere to buy stuff.

Draco had even decided on a time table. Taking into account how many meetings they had per week and natural progression of things, which he and Kyler were actually ahead in that area he thought with a smirk, and normal courting time range, he was estimating courting period to be done within two to three months. He would make sure to move it along. Draco had a strong desire to have his mate officially bonded to him even if it was a mere formality. Kyler would be in their' house and in their' bed no longer then three months from now he thought with a determined nod.

Draco wrapped and put away the packages he had put a rush order on yesterday. It was a time when he didn't mind throwing the Malfoy name around to get packages and things in a timely fashion. Come to think of it he never gave a fuck when he threw the Malfoy name around, as long as it got the job done, but why did he have a feeling that Kyler was not exactly going to approve of that? That was a wait and see thing in Draco's opinion, and one thing he was not going to stop doing with out a fight. His family had worked hard to have people jumping at their' commands. Though he supposed he would have to curb that a little.

He still had to make it to go to morning transfiguration class before he aparated, with out his parents this time, to Crescenzo's and then back in the afternoon for classes and a night session with Snape to make up the potion the class did while he was gone. He didn't understand why he had to do that, he was way ahead in potions anyway. Draco was a natural at it, and helped his Godfather brew most of the potions the seventh years were doing this term. He would make a point to bitch a little tonight though, he decided and hurried to his first class. Time to get the whole learning nonsense over with.

XXXX

Kyler was again waiting in the headmaster's office when the veela popped in. This time he was dressed a little more too fit in, with the same navy and blue motif that the students wore. The shirt and slacks were fine enough he supposed, but the polyester vest. Well his tailor would have laughed his ass off if he had seen his customer this morning.

Draco was pleasantly surprised that his mate seemed a little more relaxed this morning. And even more surprised that his mate didn't have his usual coffee cup in hand. He would ask about it later though. The headmaster was there as well and Draco minded his manners enough to give a proper hello, before Trighton suggested that they meet back in three hours, and then left the office for a staff meeting asking Kyler to close up behind them.

Kyler wasn't surprised when he found himself immediately back against the headmaster's desk with the tall veela pressing against him. The veela did as he had the day before and leaned in with a breath to kiss right below Kyler's ear and sniff a bit. It was slow and drawn out, leaving Kyler more amused then anything, and more aroused then he wanted to admit. How was it possible that one act could turn his stomach like that?

However, when the veela pulled away all he saw was an amused little smile on his mate's face.

"Just getting my morning fix." Draco answered to the grin in a husky low voice, very near Kyler face. That only caused Kyler to chuckle.

"Well, if you've gotten that fix, we have lunch scheduled with a few of my friends right now."

Draco walked with Kyler down to a restaurant that was the chosen place for the meet and greet with his friends. He usually didn't give a shit what people's opinion was of him, and he couldn't honestly say he cared about the people he was meeting today, except for how it related to the young man next to him.

Draco did understand that the people he was going to meet were family to Kyler, so whether he absolutely hated them or not, he knew he would pretend to the best of his ability that he loved them. He would continue the charade for the rest of their' lives if need be. Of course, unless an opportunity came up to sever his mates ties to these people. Which even then he wasn't certain on. He reasoned that his mate, considering his personality, was probably friends with people of his caliber, therefore they might be good allies to have in the world.

If he found them unworthy, well at this point he would keep his mouth shut, turn on the Malfoy veela charm, and play nice.

He had the advantage of knowing who they were ahead of coming to the table they were all sitting at. It was a large booth, with the Russian sitting next to the girl on one side, and a brunette man sitting at the head of the table with chair pulled up. Etiquette dictated Draco allow Kyler the furthest in seat, and taking a look at the Russians face he knew the man had counted on that, and would be sitting right across from him, face to face. With a smile he thought, let the games begin. These people were out of their league.

Nickolai didn't extend his hand in greeting, but did give a smile a few degrees warmer then ice. Draco who usually assumed people were Neanderthals with no knowledge of manners, definitely knew that the Russian did this on purpose. The girl glared at the Russian a bit and did offer her hand. Rose, the name definitely fit her. She obviously had a spine of steel and was able to control the man next to her fairly well.

Kyler made proper introductions, and Draco studied each person in turn, noting the smaller things. Taylor, though sort of a third wheel, was filled with confidence and certainly no lackey to his friends. He was sharp, but about as harmful as puppy. Draco noticed a few things right of f the bat. Whenever people passed by they said hello to Taylor first and then, depending on the person, greeted the rest of the table. Taylor was obviously the social person and knew most people by sight.

Draco took Kyler's recommendation of what was good in the place to eat and waited for the questioning to begin. Actually he was curious to how much his mate had told his friends, and guessed it was more than Draco told his.

Rose and Taylor looked towards Nickolai to start the round, which he did in fine fashion once drinks were served.

"So how many animagus forms do you have? That something you learn at your school in Scotland?"

Draco was a little surprised and thought over his answer carefully. He wondered what Nickolai was getting at, either Draco's lack of power or lack of schooling? Either one was insulting, he thought, and inwardly grinned. The Russian was on par with him after all! Fabulous, he may learn to actually like these people.

"One, and no it isn't a skill that our headmaster thinks necessary, so unfortunately those who don't have the power to learn it on their own, don't." Draco said it with a grin, covering both areas. He had the power while admitting his school was headed by a less than genius man. From what he knew, Trighton didn't like Dumbledore anyway, so the admission was no great loss.

Nickolai just stared and smirked. "So I imagine you all spend more of your time on Quidditch fields then classrooms then?"

Draco laughed out loud at that, and glanced over at his mate who he saw smirking and realized that Kyler was enjoying himself and had no intention of helping him out. Obviously, he had known the quizzing would come and either wasn't able to or not inclined to stop it.

"Not nearly as much time as one would hope. I'm surprised though with the time your school puts into studies that there are not more students a bit rounded in the mid section."

Nickolai had a frown at this, but Draco heard a chuckle coming from his side and looked to Taylor who's head was down trying to hide his laughter. Finally he did look up and over to Nickolai, answering his friend's frown with a negligent shrug.

"What he has a point." Then Taylor started chuckling again. Draco was saved from another question by the arrival of food, surprisingly which, he found to be quite good.

Finally Taylor decided to expound on his own thoughts. "Actually we all would be soggy around the midsection if not for the clubs we join. Most of which, make a solid game a Quidditch look like something you could do in your sleep. You should see our dueling courses. Absolutely awesome!"

Draco looked on in a little bit of puzzlement, which Taylor saw.

"It's a designated zone on the property for dueling and battling. The headmaster changes it weekly. Could be a sandy dune area, a shopping outlet, or the main halls of the ministry of magic in England. It's not only a fabulous work out but great fun. Until you die, but you're sitting with three of the top duelers in the school."

Draco was a little shocked. Dangerous yes, completely demented actually, but at the same time it would obviously prepare the students for anything they had to face in battle. He finally looked over to Kyler, and took a moment looking at his mate's unconcerned face.

"You're top I imagine," Draco said solemly. It was a question but came out more of a fact.

He only received an affirmative nod and shrug in response and continued to stare. Finally Kyler looked up from his salad.

"Its not a big deal." Draco gave his own snort and looked over to Taylor for more information. He seemed to be the most loosed mouthed in the group.

"He's been top for a couple years now. Can nail a target with the killing curse at fifty paces." Even Taylor said it as it was not a big deal at all, and Draco finally shook his head and got back to his food. Obviously his idea of normal, and that of the people he was sitting with was different. He certainly would not make a fool out of himself and tell them how not normal Kyler's skill was. A Malfoy never looked undignified.

"So have you all been here since you were children?"

Rose was the first to answer this, starting out with a nod.

"Yes, of course. We were all admitted to school around the age of seven. Basically you are here for ten years. With some exceptions." To which her eyes fled to Kyler's, and he answered the unasked question looking at the blonde sitting next to him.

"I've been here since I was six."

"Don't you think that can hurt you in some ways though? How are you supposed to know what happens in the world and succeed in it if you are separated away?" Draco thought it an obvious question, but that people all around him started to laugh and he felt like he was missing something.

"We're not really separated," Kyler said with a grin, "just because we don't live in that world doesn't mean we don't know about it. We have a class every month to catch us up on the most current of problems, and what is being done to solve them. And we do have two breaks, so it's not as though we don't see the world, and not as though anyone of us would be lost as to deposit money into an account. We're not idiots…… though your question does have some merit and that's where alumni come in. When we graduate each of us goes to live with an alumni that is professionally in our chosen field, for a month. It helps us get acclimated."

Draco nodded understandingly and thought about the whole thing. It definitely helped to put the pieces together of how the students were able to be successful outside of school. They were smart enough to start learning about the world around them after they left, and the students probably had a lot to catch up on.

"So when do your families get chosen?"

"They already have been. Chosen a little over a year ago, but everyone is told to keep it to themselves till after they leave." Kyler explained, though he could see that Draco didn't seem thrilled with the idea, not that he really cared or would budge on the issue though. Kyler had been excited about the graduation and next step for some time.

The rest of the lunch went rather smoothly, with Nickolai letting up on Draco just a bit, and finally showing a humorous side of himself. The others soon went off to class, while Kyler led Draco on a walk about the campus and buildings.

"So since you were six?" Draco asked, fully willing to let the question drop if Kyler wasn't ready to talk about the more private parts of his life, and Kyler did seem to consider it for a few moments before answering.

"Yes. My parents were great friends of the Headmaster, and when they passed away he brought me here. I stayed for a year under his tutelage and that of some outside Professors, brought in to start my education."

Draco couldn't even imagine what it would be like to loose your family and home in the blink of an eye.

"I'm sorry." Draco's words were only met with a shrug though, as if the whole thing didn't bother Kyler in the least.

"Well your parents must have been great people to have made you." Draco meant it as a compliment and thought Kyler would at least smile at it, but it was met only with a slightly worried look.

"Let's leave my genetics behind closed doors for now, shall we?" Warning signs went off in Draco's head and he knew he would analyze that statement later.

"If you like." Was all Draco responded with, but he did remember what he had talked about with his Godfather, and finally turning another corridor turned to Kyler, stopping their leisurely stroll.

"I have a feeling that I am going to be at your mercy at bit in this area." At Kyler puzzled frown Draco made it a little more blunt. "It's obvious that I'm willing to be an open box where your concerned. I'm not usually, understand that. You don't really know me so you can't know that to all others I'm an immensely private person. With you though, well I'm more of a veela, open and wanting to share even though its quite obvious I won't get much in return. I don't want to force you into discussing things that your not comfortable with, but just keep in mind, well, I'm at your mercy a bit in this area." Draco stopped and saw Kyler considering, which was a step in the right direction. He wanted Kyler to consider that he was willing to trust him with his inner most thoughts. His own genetics practically demanded it, but he was hoping for something in return.

"So, this isn't really you?" Kyler wondered aloud.

Draco barked a unamused laugh at that.

"It's definitely a side of me, even I'm not used to. People who know me would be certain that its someone else using polyjuice. I suppose in some ways I should have expected that I would be like my parents, more particularly my father. He loves me utterly and completely. It's a little different in public though. Just as my close friends see me differently then I am certain the rest of the school does."

"The masks we wear usually are never who we really are, just little pieces of our true selves," Kyler said understandingly. Draco started to walk on, the air a little lighter now that he had said his piece. It was Kyler's words that put them to a halt again.

"I'll try. I can see that other side of you too, and I think your going to find that you need to be brought down a couple notches now and again." Draco stared at him surprised, but his amusement was overwhelming.

"So I need a keeper do I? To keep me in line?"

"No, but you definitely have a rather arrogant side to you. So do I sometimes. I recognize that. Nickolai tells me it rears its head most often when my skills or abilities are questioned. With you it is all about your family, standing, honor, proudness, and probably other areas I have not yet found. I will take your thoughts under advice though. "

Draco knew what he said was true. His thinking was right. Kyler was going to make him curb the throwing around of the Malfoy name, he thought with an internal sigh.

Draco was heartily surprised when his so far more quiet mate continued on. "You're going to find out a couple things about me. One, I don't lie. Well at least not unless its needed. If I tell you a topic is not up for talking about then that's just it for now. I find it far preferable to do that then make up some sort of excuse or lie and retrace later. Two, I don't accept lying from anybody I know. Trust issue some of my friends call it. I don't much care what the source is, but if I'm honest then I expect the other person to be as well. The rest well I guess you'll learn that stuff in time. Its probably obvious I don't lay my life on the table for people to analyze, but I can try to be a little more open. We've met only a short time ago though, so don't expect a lot. Nickolai will tell you it took him the better part of a year to get as far as my middle name. And generally I am more open with people, I suppose this whole situation is just different though."

Draco nodded. "I can accept that. Merlin, I've known about you and waited for you far longer than you have me. I'm going to push though forward though."

Draco figured he could accet what Kyler said. More so, Kyler would hopefully learn by watching him. He would be open and therefore Kyler might see that he could be as well. He was getting some insight now, and found his mate to possibly be the most fascinating person he'd ever met. Could be the whole bond thing, but somehow he doubted it.

Draco and Kyler spent another hour walking around the campus, but soon enough Trighton showed up and escorted him back to the apparition point. Draco scowled as he was only given time to give Kyler a perfunctory handshake, and quick whisper into his ear. Draco talked to Trighton in his office for a few minutes, gave him some packages, and then apparated off, quite pleased with how the afternoon had gone.

XXXXXX

Nickolai and Kyler went up to their' room after classes that day to find a nice stack of packages on Kyler's bed. Draco had whispered to Kyler to expect something, but this was a little much. Nickolai gave a laugh and flopped on his bed, laying on his side, and thinking that now things were getting fun, but saw his best friend didn't seem happy about the stack on his bed.

"Oh please," Nick said with a huff, "it's a tradition old as veela themselves, that introductory period usually includes some small gifts, and you aren't going to be able to change it. So, I don't want to hear it Ky! Zip your mouth closed, open the gifts, smile, send a thank you note, and get over it!" He saw Ky start to talk, "Ah! No, open! Now!"

Finally Kyler gave a huff of his own and a mumbled, "Yes, mum." Nick only smiled.

Kyler tore through the first package to find clothing, Shrunken to fit in a box the size of a shirt box was over a dozen dress button down shirts, and another dozen pairs of jeans in different washes. Also included were robes of varying colors and material. He wanted to be pissed. No one could buy him off, and certainly not with clothing. Draco seemed like a person that would know the difference between the washes and silk versus silk blended but Harry didn't get it. Clothing wasn't a big deal, it just kept you warm, and kept you out of detention! Maybe then it wasn't really of a buy off, and more of something Draco just saw that he needed so he got it. Knowing what he did about Draco it was probably a bit of a mixture between the two. Unwrapped Harry muttered under his breath and watched the clothing fly to his armoir.

The next was something wholly unexpected. Graduation announcements. They were something that Kyler couldn't buy, but he hadn't said anything about it to anyone. He didn't even know who he would send them too. On top was a note explaining that Draco expected the mating would add to the list of people needing graduation announcements, so he felt honor bound to re-order them. They were large on expensive white parchment, and Kyler thought, exactly his style if would have had the money. Simple, straightforward, and elegant. Not fussy.

Lastly was a small jewelry box, that made Kyler somewhat nervous. He knew what was coming. Opening it though he gasped. The ring was almost indescribable. Platnum gold, the Malfoy crest in the middle, with diamond and emerald accents. It was quite large, heavy, utterly masculine, and made him quite uncomfortable. It was a possessive gift he was sure. Although he considered again and thought it possible that Draco was just rying to integrate him into the family. Make the bonding more of a sure thing, which is certainly wasn't in Kyler mind. He had seen Lucius Malfoy and Draco both with a Malfoy crest ring on, though each was different and obviously designed with the wearer in mind.

Attached was also a platinum chain necklace, with another note.

Dear Kyler,

I hope you enjoyed your first set of gifts. Knowing you, I think I should mention that I won't accept any of them back. The ring is tradition, and although I realize it would hardly be appropriate for you to wear it yet, I did include a chain for it. I might also mention that the giving of gifts tradition is as old as the veela line, and a simple way of saying thank you for appearing in my life and letting me get to know you. More of these tokens can be expected every few days. I look forward to our next meeting, and the chance to see you put the gifts to good use.

Always,

Draco Malfoy.

Kyler threw the note down and stared at the ring again, looking to Nickolai he then tossed it to him.

Nickolai let out a long whistle. "What is it they say?….oh yes, now that's some bling. Tasteful though." With that he tossed it back. Nickolai had found Draco to be a very interesting person, and was willing to give the whole thing a chance.

Kyler immediately slipped the ring onto the chain and attached it to his neck, more out of desire not to loose the thing though. Kyler found he was always misplacing objects, and this was definitely something that could never ever be lost.

XXXXXXXX

Late on that same day Draco was studying in the common room when the head master came into the room. Was an unusual ocurrance for the man to make his way to the snake pit. He made his way straight over to Draco and stood before him. Draco stared at the man in silence, knowing that in his own time the headmaster would reveal what he had come for, although Draco already had some idea.

"I hear congratulations are in order Mr. Malfoy." If he meant Draco to take this as an opening to start gushing about his found mate, then he had another thing coming, Draco thought smugly. It wasn't that he didn't like Dumbledore, not really, but if he wasn't telling his Godfather much then why would he tell the headmaster anything?

"It also seems that packages and orders have been going out with some frequency I hear. I only hope that this process will not affect your studying."

Draco smirked. "Unlikely sir."

"Would you like to tell me about your chosen partner?" Dumbledore finally asked, seeing no other alternative. The young man unfortunately was a little more private then the headmaster would wish.

"Nothing much to tell. I am sure in time I should like to bring my mate here for a visit though. Sometime in the near future, so he can spend the day with me."

Dumbledore smiled although it was definitely clenched and all teeth.

"Of course. As long as you clear it through Professor Snape I see no reason not to allow the visit. If you feel any need to discuss it my door is always open."

"Appreciated, sir." Silence droned on and finally Dumbledore took his leave, realizing quickly that Draco had absolutely no intention of saying anything of use, and now that Dumbledore was curious about the mate he would go to Severus and see what he could learn. Although, he was already doubting it would be of any use.