Dear readers,

I'm terribly sorry for not posting as scheduled on June 1st. It devastated me that the chapter wasn't ready on time. To make it up to you, this one is a bit longer than most of my chapters. Please enjoy and now that I'm back on schedule look for our next chapter on August 1st!

Lori94

Chapter 33

Draco found his family already settled into the dining room and they greeted him warmly before beginning to speak about their plans for the day.

"Oh, I hope you don't mind, Mother, but there are multiple errands I need to address during our visit to Gringotts this Saturday." Draco confessed before turning to look at his father. "You see, to complete our betrothal, in addition to the kiss that sealed the contract, Harry gave me two gifts and one of them needs to be adjusted by the goblins." First he brought out the cloak pin and told them all about it. Then he looked at his uncle. "Is Nagini around? Or Shika and Suki?"

"I believe Nagini is hunting..." Tom looked at his nephew speculatively. "And yours and Harry's snakes were in your room when last I checked... why?"

"No reason, Uncle...I just thought I'd demonstrate one of the things my second gift is able to do..." Draco shrugged carelessly. "Perhaps later. There is a matter I'd like to discuss with you if you have time for a formal meeting."

"Well, nephew..." Tom's eyebrows rose. Draco know his uncle was intrigued but didn't want to show it. "If you tell us, I might be willing to allow my familiar to act as a test subject."

Draco sighed dramatically. "If you'd prefer, I can use you instead...?"

Narcissa sipped her tea, hiding the smirk that sprouted in response to her husband's startled look as they waited for Tom's answer.

The Dark Lord sat up straighter and narrowed his eyes at the youngest Malfoy. "I wonder what you mean by that."

Draco reached into his pocket and brought out the scepter which was a little bigger than his hand. "I mean, dear uncle, that this artifact allows me to speak parseltongue and I need to practice."

"That was...!" Lucius' eyes lit up. He was a little affronted by the scepter's size and shape, not to mention the implications of the phallic symbol.

"This is the scepter of Dagobert." Draco laughed, nodding his head. "Among other things, it allows someone who doesn't normally have the ability to speak parseltongue to do so. It has already come in handy, but I have the one witness convinced that Harry is teaching me the language."

"Potter had this?" Tom asked softly; his surprise showing.

Nodding, Draco looked at his father. "Before you start - he gifted it to me because of our snakes and the many runes that do interesting things. He didn't know of the symbolism involved until Blaise and I educated him and he's already spoken to the goblins about changing the shape of it. That is the errand I spoke of. They're going to make it smaller and adapt it to a bracelet."

"Clever." Lucius nodded thoughtfully. "A bracelet - worn properly - will be a signal to others of your relationship."

"And it keeps the secret of the artifact bestowing my skills." Draco told them. "I'd rather have people believe Harry taught me parseltongue than know they could get the talent by thievery."

"Smart. We will tell Nagini of your new ability later." Tom dismissed him with a smirk. "Go; talk with your snakes and get settled for your stay. I'll call upon you later."

Draco grinned and hurried up to his room to have a real conversation with Shika and Suki. The hours passed pleasantly and he snacked while doing his homework instead of joining the family so he wasn't too surprised when Tom brought Nagini for a visit after lunch. Nagini was thrilled to have another person to talk to but she didn't monopolize the conversation. Tom asked what Draco had wanted to discuss and their conversation became intense, allowing time to pass so quickly that Narcissa had to interrupt for the final meal of the day.

Once she left the table to perform the cleansing ceremony at the celebration site, Draco asked to speak with his father. He carefully confessed that he and Harry had shared a bed with the bundling practice in place. "I'm telling you now because Mother's cleansing ritual has reminded me that a new year is beginning and I want it to start on the right note."

Lucius looked at his heir speculatively. "You are also telling me because you want it to happen again...here."

Draco blushed but nodded.

"Very well, you may inform the elves." Lucius muttered. "I'll speak with your mother before we retire for the night."

Draco nodded solemnly and rushed back to his room. He quickly wrote a letter to invite Harry to spend the next night with him and called for Dainty. "Please send this off with an owl for me, then set up my bed with two top sheets under the comforter."

The elf did as she was told and when she returned she held Harry's answer. "Dainty didn't use an owl, sir. Since the wards were joined, Dainty is knowing Mister Harry's elvesies and she called for Ziva who took the letter to Mister Harry and Mister Harry answered quickly."

Draco eagerly opened the letter to reveal three words. "I'd love to." He smiled and got ready for bed. When he opened his eyes the next morning Yule would be here. He couldn't wait.

Draco beamed across the frozen lagoon as Harry led his party across the ward-line dressed in forest green robes. His own robes were a brighter shade of green - the green of Harry's eyes - and he stood beside his parents who were also dressed festively. As he'd guessed, his mother had decided to hold the Yule ceremony at his favorite spot on the grounds and the sky was beginning to brighten as the large tempus charm his father had cast turned eight.

In matching black robes with burgundy accents, Sirius and Remus levitated a large log between them and, as he placed the log on the already decorated altar, Sirius announced that the Yule log was a gift, given in celebration of the union of their two families.

Dudley came forward and bowed, presenting Draco's parents with a small trunk. "This trunk contains flowers, berries, pinecones, and branches to help decorate the log. We hope they will bring light and life into this gathering."

Narcissa, wearing a navy blue velvet gown with silver accessories, nudged her similarly dressed husband who sighed as he greeted his guests. "We humbly accept your gifts and welcome you to our home."

"There is mulled cider and I've prepared the traditional buttermilk bread. The elves have begun preparing breakfast which will be served shortly." Narcissa told her guests, gesturing toward a nearby table. "You'll see a pile of parchment on each table which is part of our family's holiday tradition, if you wish to join in. To begin our celebrations we usually write down one or two things we wish to release from the past year. The parchment is burned with the log. When I was a child, we would share one of the things we were releasing. If you'd like to, you may share but please don't feel that you must."

"The tables have localized warming charms, Harry." Draco said softly. "I've chosen one for us already. Dudley, would you like to join us?"

Harry's eyes instantly focused on the blond as he happily followed Draco to the table he indicated.

"R-Really?" Dudley stuttered. "I thought you'd want to be alone with Harry."

"I was once a third wheel to the Yule traditions, too." Draco reminded them. "As you and Harry are both new to the ceremonies and need instructions, I have no qualm with leading you both through them this time. After all, we will eventually have to teach our children and this will give me practice."

Harry's face shone with his pleasure at hearing this. "Thank you, Draco."

The young Dragonlord bobbed his head with a content sigh. "Now, I want you to think of what you'd like to release. It should be negative or neutral as anything positive should be cherished and taken forward." He watched his betrothed consider this.

"What do you mean by neutral?" Dudley asked.

"Well, let's see..." Draco wondered how to explain. "As an example, I suppose I can tell you what I released in my first year at Hogwarts...?" Harry seemed curious but Dudley had a focused expression so he continued. "One thing I released was my anger toward Harry for getting a place on the quidditch team instead of detention when he was caught flying without supervision."

"That's negative." Harry murmured.

Draco nodded. "The other thing I released was my regret that I wasn't able to meet the baby dragon Hagrid hatched in his hut."

"That's negative too...isn't it?" Dudley asked.

"Some might see it that way but there will be many opportunities for me to meet dragons. Father told you my family's secret. It is part of my destiny." Draco explained. "That just wasn't the right time."

Harry nodded thoughtfully. "I think I see what you mean."

Dudley seemed happy with that and retreated into his own thoughts, leaving Harry and Draco to theirs.

Breakfast was served and as Narcissa made a show of bringing her bowl around to every table Draco told them one last thing. "When the parchment is burned we say 'I release these to the return of the light'. Ok?"

They nodded just in time for their hostess to begin.

"I release my silly wish for my son to stay young." She placed her parchment in the bowl and turned to face Draco. "You're almost an adult, darling. You already have responsibilities that only you can perform. You have become your own person ...and I've loved seeing it happen."

Draco hugged her and placed his parchment into the bowl. "I am happy to release the evil pretense I've had to carry out. It wasn't me at all."

"I release my past enmity toward the young man who will one day be my son in law." As Lucius calmly nodded to the younger man, he let his parchment fall into the bowl. "My good friend wishes that I pass along his good will, as well."

"Thank you, Malfoy, I appreciate it. I also appreciate your hospitality." Harry nodded solemnly and placed his parchment in the bowl. "I've chosen to release the resentment I've held toward my aunt and uncle because it may not be their fault that they've been treating me badly all these years. I've sent my solicitor to speak with them, Dudley. If I and most of wizarding Britain have been potioned and duped by whoever it is that's impersonating Dumbleldore, then it's possible they were too. They will be tested and treated if that's the case."

"If it's not?" Dudley asked sadly.

"Then I, at least, never have to see them again." Harry sighed. "I hope you can understand."

"I do." Dudley nodded slowly. "It makes me sad to think that their terrible treatment of you might not have been the result of that bad wizard but I understand that it's possible."

"Do you want to share?" Narcissa asked as Dudley's parchment joined the rest.

"I release my past self." Dudley said quietly. "I'm a different person now. Between the healer Lady Malfoy recommended and my defense classes at Zebrawood, I've been taking better care of myself and even eating better. I reinvented myself when you saved me last summer, Harry."

Harry grinned. "Good. I'm so glad."

Remus declined to share but Sirius sighed as he dropped his parchment into the bowl. "I release my terrible treatment of Severus Snape." He said. "It has been pointed out to me... repeatedly and by numerous sources... that the man is not only a family member to Draco, but an ally in our efforts against Dumbledore - or whoever he is. I will do my utmost to play nice with him."

"Thank you, Siri." Harry murmured.

Narcissa echoed the sentiment and brought the bowl to the altar. Then she opened the trunk, inviting them to help decorate the log.

Draco was the first to join her but Harry and Lucius quickly showed their support. Once all the decorations were adorning the large Yule log, she turned to Dudley. "Please take the torch from the cleansing fire and follow the path I showed you the other day."

Dudley nodded solemnly and did as she'd instructed, leading the way as Lucius levitated the log through the house and into a large sitting room where a fireplace waited.

Once the log was inside, Dudley placed the torch in with it.

With a wave of her wand, Narcissa charmed the parchment into small birds which flew around the room and into the fire.

"I release these to the return of the light." They all intoned.

With that done, she threw the remaining pieces of the seasonal plants into the fire. "Well, that's it for the formalities. Let's get comfortable and give gifts, shall we?"

Harry chuckled at the difference in her demeanor but quickly chose a comfy looking couch to sit on. Draco seemed to approve because he took the seat next to him with a gift in hand.

Harry opened it to find what looked like a diamond ring and looked up curiously.

"It goes on your pinky finger and the stone isn't a diamond. It's a charmed crystal that changes color if your food or drink has been altered." Draco explained. "You can see that it's clear right now? Well, it'll remain clear if there is no alteration but it turns blue if it's beneficial to you and red if it's dangerous."

"By beneficial do you mean nutritional potions?" Harry frowned. "Would it detect alcohol?"

"It could be a strengthening potion or nutritional potions or Felix Felicis. It will even detect veritaserum." Draco told him. "The dangerous potions are things like love potions or poisons or the draught of living death. Uncle Severus attuned it for me."

Harry hugged his betrothed and slipped the ring on his finger as he watched everyone else for a little while.

Narcissa loved her new jewelry box and Lucius approved of the new quill and ink set Draco had picked out for him. That's when Harry handed over his gift.

"It's just a little something... and it's for both of you." He shrugged.

"A gift certificate?" Lucius murmured as he opened the envelope.

"It's to the restaurant in Hogsmeade that Draco and I visited." Harry told them. "It's modeled after the hanging gardens of Babylon."

"Sounds lovely, dear." Narcissa smiled softly.

"Indeed." Lucius flashed a slight smile. "Shall we continue the day's events?"

"Actually, Cissy, I have something else to give you." Sirius interrupted holding out a key. "I've moved a large number of Black family heirlooms into a special vault at Gringotts - none are cursed or jinxed, I've had them thoroughly checked - but I have no use or love for them so I'm giving you the first choice. Take what you want; leave the rest."

"Thank you, Sirius." She smiled as she took it.

"You're welcome, cousin." Sirius winked at her.

"Our tradition from this point on is to divide into couples until dinner, when several others will join us." Lucius explained to his guests. "As you live very close, you may choose to go home for this portion of the celebration, but we encourage you to remain here and use one of our public rooms to relax."

"If you'd like, while alone together, you might perform a wishing ritual for the coming year. The one our family uses was taught to me by my mother-in-law." Narcissa continued, handing one person from each couple a small gift bag. "Inside this bag is a candle, some matches, a charmed quill and a scroll of parchment. Light the candle and talk about the things you want to happen before next Yule. Then, plan the next steps toward that goal."

"I like that idea." Sirius nodded his approval and Remus smiled serenely in agreement. "I'd like to take them up on it, Moony. What do you say?"

Remus nodded. "Perhaps there's a small parlor or something?"

"I know just the one." Narcissa grinned and touched her husband's hand. "I'll show them the way and meet you in a bit."

"As you wish." Lucius accepted this and kissed her hand. "Son?"

"I was planning to take Harry and Dudley to the reading nook in the library, Father." Draco bowed his head solemnly and signaled for Harry to follow him. The brunet took the hint and motioned with his head for Dudley to join them.

Draco led them silently until they arrived at a cozy grouping of couches near a fireplace in the library. "I'll call for tea if you'd like or fruit and cheese?"

"Maybe later." Harry commented and patted the couch beside him.

The blond huffed but capitulated and wasn't surprised when Harry pulled him closer. "Harry! Not while your cousin is with us."

"Sorry." Dudley chuckled sheepishly. "Maybe if you just tell me what to do..."

"Dudley, Harry does not get whatever he wants just because he wants it." Draco glared playfully at his betrothed. "I have plans, Harry James Potter!"

"C'mon, Draco. One kiss and then I'll gladly let you carry out any plans you'd like." Harry laughed goodnaturedly. "Please?"

Draco sighed as his lips brushed Harry's. "Who knew relationships would include this kind of maintenance?"

Dudley smiled wistfully as he watched. "That's one thing I never had a problem with. I knew my parents loved each other."

Harry nodded and settled back against the cushions. "Petunia and Vernon did show affection for each other and for you. She kissed you both on your way out of the house and when you returned. He ruffled your hair when he passed you sitting on the couch and bought her flowers for both obvious reasons and not-so obvious ones."

"Sirius and Remus do those sorts of things with each other." Dudley pointed out.

"They do." Harry grinned. "That will lead nicely into the tradition. Let's light our candles and talk about things we want to do this year."

"Dudley, place your candle here beside ours." Draco told him as he set out two small dishes and put the candle from Harry's bag down on one of them. "Harry, would you like to start?"

Harry took a deep breath. "I want to begin by saying I have a few categories of goals that I want to see happen before next Yule."

"Then, start with ones that can be discussed in polite company." Draco joked as he lit both candles. "We'll talk about the ones making you blush later."

Dudley laughed out loud causing Harry to slap his cousin's leg.

"Alright. Moving forward...?" Draco smirked.

"Right! I've told Dudley, Sirius, and Remus everything that's happened since we went to school in September and your father has let them in on your family secret, so we can literally talk about anything now." Harry said to Draco. "I've only held back private details from our relationship and, as you said, we'll talk about those goals later."

"Good." Draco murmured.

"That being said..." Harry took a deep breath. "I have school related goals, Dumbledore and ministry related goals, and my ultimate future goals."

"Let's start with school related." Draco suggested, pulling out their scroll.

"I don't enjoy Divination so I'd like to drop it." Harry said softly.

"I'd wait and drop it after the OWL, Harry." Draco hummed thoughtfully. "Just because you've already gotten so far in the course. If you drop it now, the teachers would only make you choose something else and then you'd be taking the OWL in a subject you've studied for only one semester."

Harry shrugged. "I'm not likely to get a passing grade in it anyway, but I suppose I'll discuss it with McGonagall when we get back before deciding."

Draco grinned. "So that's the next step in your school related goals - writing to McGonagall about a meeting." Harry nodded as Draco wrote it down. "Let's get Dudley started and then I'll take a turn and we'll get back to yours, Harry."

Harry was so happy Draco was being welcoming.

"I don't really have a specific goal. I want to do well in my studies at Zebrawood. I want to help Harry as much as I can." Dudley sighed. "I want to stay healthy."

"Well, I'd focus on the broadest goal to determine your first step to making the others happen because they're all connected." Harry pointed out. "If you don't stay healthy, you won't likely do well at school which will lead to you not being able to help me at all and that would lead me to worry for your safety."

"And turn me into a burden which is the last thing I'd want." Dudley nodded. "Ok. I need to stay in shape and study hard in my defense classes."

"Draco?" Harry asked.

"Hmmm... Do you think we can defeat Dumbles before next Yule?" Draco snorted derisively.

"We can try." Harry smirked sadly. "But it's likely a bigger task than that."

"I know! I want to help Uncle Tom release all his horcruxes by next Yule." Draco grinned. "That helps you as well, Harry and, as you're my future husband, that is my biggest goal."

Harry grinned. "I have a feeling I can't do any of this without you, Draco... so thanks."

"Now, let's get the rest of yours Harry." Dudley suggested, getting interrupted by a sudden growling noise which drew their attention to his stomach. "Maybe after someone calls for the fruit and cheese tray?"

Harry chuckled as Draco called his elf. They snacked and talked for a while before Draco realized that the candles had gone down.

"It's almost dinnertime and there's only a little while left for the candles." Draco told them as he took hold of Harry's hand. "Why don't we visualize our goals coming to fruition?"

They all closed their eyes and took several deep breaths.

"Master Draco, sir?" A tiny voice broke the silence. "Master's parents are greeting the guests."

"Thank you, Dainty. Please let them know we are on our way." Draco said softly. "Harry, Dudley ... I must let you know that our guests will include all three of my uncles as well as Luna."

"I'm alright with that." Harry accepted this news calmly. "Anyone else?"

"No, all the other guests are here already." Draco assured him.

"The Dark Lord Voldemort is having dinner with a squib?" Harry chuckled. "What on Earth will happen next?"

The small group made their way down the halls and into the dining room where Tom and Severus were just sitting down across from Sirius and Remus.

"Xeno and Luna will be here soon." Narcissa was saying as she directed some of the Malfoy elves.

That's when it happened.

"Master Harry!" Dobby popped into the room sending everyone into a tizzy.

Wands were drawn and every wizard looked around for the threat.

"Dobby is sorry but there be a disturbance at the Hogwarts suite!" Dobby shouted, hiding his eyes with his floppy ears. "Dobby needs Master Harry to advise!!"

Harry's vacation-addled brain dropped into crisis mode. "Go investigate and come back here as quickly as possible."

When Luna and her father arrived, they were immediately filled in. The meal was served but everyone remained tense until Dobby returned with a letter.

Hermione bit her lip as she was once again distracted from going to the owlry. She tried to keep her patience under control. Before breakfast, Dean caught her up in conversation, somehow getting her to follow him to the Great Hall instead of 'sending her parents a letter first'. Then she'd been scheduled to take the three Gryffindor firsties to the library but a fight had broken out as they'd overlapped timeslots with the Slytherin firsties. Seamus asked her help with a dispute between the Creevey brothers just before lunch and now Roger Davies wanted to talk to her about the astronomy homework.

If she hadn't used the disappearing ink she'd be afraid someone knew her letter was addressed to Harry rather than her mother.

It was almost dinnertime but she told Davies that they could talk about homework on the way to the great hall. She steered him past Harry's suite and noticed that Sigmund was still on the door. Thinking quickly, she hissed and feigned twisting her ankle right in front of Harry's door. "You go on. I'll limp up to the hospital wing and meet you in the library tomorrow morning to talk about astronomy, Roger."

"Nonsense!" He said. "I'll go get Madam Pomfrey. What if it's broken?"

She sighed and nodded. "Alright. Thanks."

As soon as he was out of sight, she slipped her letter under the door and whispered to Sigmund. "It's important."

Harry scanned the letter which looked like it was addressed to Hermione's mother and told Dobby to bring the antidote to the disappearing ink. Draco sprayed the parchment with the antidote and seconds later the real letter took shape between the lines of the other one.

Harry scanned the letter carefully. "Hermione accidentally overheard a floo conversation that Umbrage had with her brother. They said something about their Great-aunt Alfie, a vendetta, and a French cemetery. I can't imagine how the three are connected but Hermione thinks it's important, so it's worth looking into."

Draco pulled the letter - still in Harry's hand - in front of him. "She also says the attack on our suite was mentioned and somehow they know you split up at King's Cross. She says they think you're vulnerable to attack."

Harry looked up at his godfather. "Sirius, can you go to Zacharias' house and explain the situation?"

Sirius stood, nodding. "Whatever you need."

Harry was relieved. "If he still doesn't want to join us at Hearthstone Manor, make him promise to be careful."

"I'll notify Molly and Arthur." Remus told him, looking toward their hosts. "If the Malfoys don't mind me using the floo?"

Narcissa shook her head. "Of course not. Go."

"Perhaps while you're visiting Gringotts tomorrow, I can look in your library?" Harry suggested to his betrothed.

"Lucius was planning to stay home anyway." Narcissa tried to smile through her worry. "He can help you with the French cemetery."

"Indeed." Lucius nodded. "There is already something stirring in my memory... Something my father told me. I'm certain it will hit me in the middle of the night."

"I will assist as well." Xenophilius offered. "This great-aunt of theirs is intriguing. Alfie... we'll have a look in the pureblood genealogies."

Harry smiled at Luna's dad. "Thanks. I'm sure that will help."

"Daddy? I think we ought to look in the Daily Prophet's archives, as well." Luna commented softly.

"Why, Luna?" Tom asked.

"Umbrage is a British pureblood, Uncle." Luna reminded him. "If this aunt of hers was also a British pureblood it stands to reason that her obituary would be listed in the most popular newspaper in Britain."

"Alfie sounds like a nickname..." Xeno hummed. "I wonder..."

"I don't think there's anything else we can do tonight." Harry sighed. "Perhaps we can continue our celebration?"

"Yes, Xeno, Luna?" Narcissa stood and beckoned to them. "Your gifts are waiting."

"As are yours, Aunt Cissa." Luna giggled.

Everyone followed her but Harry hung back. "Tom?" Harry hissed softly, holding out a small package wrapped in green and silver paper. "Thisss is for you but it'sss not for the others' eyesss." Once the older man took the parcel, Harry smirked and went to sit with Draco.

Tom's eyebrow rose in curiosity but he slipped the package into a pocket for later.

"You bought him something?" Draco murmured as Luna and her father took turns opening their gifts.

"Yes." Harry whispered. He was amused that his older cousin was resisting his natural curiosity and wondered how long it would take before he gave in. "Nothing extravagant ...I'll tell you later."

"I spoke to Nagini last evening. We had a lovely conversation." Draco confided quietly. "She's witty."

Harry chuckled. "The only times I've spoken to her, I didn't appreciate her wit."

Luna delivered her gifts to their recipients and waited as each was opened.

Narcissa praised the odd necklace she received. Lucius was thrilled with the French treatise on the difference between dark magic and black magic. Draco's gift filled him with satisfaction and excitement. It was a muggle book about the places that Merlin was said to have lived, died, and been buried.

"Uncle Tom?" She asked as he delayed opening his gift. "It's your turn."

Tom smirked indulgently at her and opened the envelope. "Luna...what is this? There's nothing in here."

Luna bit her lip. "She said you might have difficulty seeing it but I thought she was being silly. It's sylph hair."

"Sylph hair?" Tom murmured in confusion. "I think sylphs are extinct, Luna, dear."

"No they're not." Luna smiled at him beatifically. "There were a few at school last month. They're beautiful."

Tom chuckled uncomfortably and signaled that Harry should open his gift.

Harry nodded and carefully pulled his package onto his lap. Inside the box was a basket. Inside the basket, layed on a bed of fabric scraps which had been twisted and interwoven with grass, layed a strangely shaped rock. "Well, this is lovely, Luna. It really is...a very pretty rock."

She giggled. "You don't know what it is... do you?"

Harry sighed dramatically. "I'm so glad you guessed that! No, Luna - I really don't."

"It's a Boobrie egg, silly!" Luna explained. "It'll hatch soon too, so keep it with you."

"And, erm, what - pray tell - is a boobrie, Luna?" Tom asked gently.

"Only the perfect pet for Harry!" Luna informed them. "It hatches from a rock-like egg but then it has a fluid form."

"Might you expound on that?" Snape asked carefully.

"It's a shape shifting entity that lives in the highland lochs." She answered, excitement shining in her eyes. "It can take on lots of different forms but most often likes to be water birds."

"And..." Harry frowned, nodding slowly, before blinking at his cousin. "Why is it the perfect pet for me?"

"You have an abundance of fire in your life, Harry." Luna huffed. "You need some balance! A boobrie is perfect because it is born of rock while embodying water's fluidity and possessing the intelligence of air. Am I the only one who sees these things?"

Draco struggled to suppress his amusement, settling for a smile. "How is it intelligent?"

"For a start, once it imprints on him, it'll be able to tell if he needs or wants a particular shape." Luna smiled again. "It can't talk but it will understand when you speak to it. I'm sure we'll find a book on it in the library."

"What a unique gift!" Narcissa smiled at everyone. "Thank you all for your wonderful gifts, though - of course - your presence was also much appreciated."

"Thank you all for joining us." Lucius looked at his guests. "Please allow the elves to show you to your rooms or the floo, as the case may be."

After saying good night to everyone, Draco caught Harry's eye and led the way to his bedroom but just as they reached the door, they were interrupted.

"Potter!" Tom called out to them, holding up the diary horcrux. "How did you get this?"

"What is it?" Draco asked, frowning at it. "I thought you bought him something. That looks old and..."

"It's the diary horcrux I destroyed in second year. I also bought him a new one." Harry murmured as he turned to face the older man with a grim expression. "Dobby found it in Dumbledore's office a couple of days ago. It and several other seemingly random objects were abandoned when he left."

"Seemingly random?" Tom frowned, his eyebrow rising even as he lowered the hand that was holding his 'gift'.

"Dobby says the objects feel like yours but different. I have a hunch and I'll be talking with my cousin who is a cursebreaker with Gringott's." Harry told him with a nod.

"Tell me." Tom demanded softly.

"I believe Dumbledore - or whoever he is - has convinced others to create horcruxes over the years." Harry told him sadly. "I think he's saving some of them for a specific spell or ritual."

"That can't be good." Draco sighed.

"No! This cannot be allowed to continue." Tom's eyes grew clouded. "If it's true, we must find the people they belong to and a way to release them that will not further damage those people."

"I'm glad you agree." Harry replied with a tired sigh. "Would you mind if we continue this in the morning?"

"Very well." Tom eyed his nephew and then the young elemental. "I also expect to discuss Slughorn's party."

"Why? Nothing interesting happened." Harry smirked as Draco opened the door and pulled him in.

"I'll tell you everything you want to know as soon as I return from Gringott's, Uncle." Draco interrupted. "Good night."

They heard Tom's laughter as the door closed behind them.

When Harry looked at his betrothed, his heart skipped a beat.

"Come to bed?" Draco said invitingly.

Harry smiled as he approached. "Gladly."

Draco's lips were soft and welcoming for a moment before they became demanding. He moaned into Harry's mouth as the brunet's arms wrapped around him. The bed was a few short steps away but it felt like kilometers, so when Draco pushed him back against the door, Harry just leaned back and enjoyed the contact. Their tongues danced and Harry felt his trousers tighten. He pulled back and looked into Draco's molten silver eyes.

"Do you feel what you're doing to me?" He asked, pushing his pelvis into Draco's.

Draco nodded breathlessly. "Bed?"

Harry picked him up and set him down on the foot of the bed. Keeping eye contact, Harry let his nose skim Draco's until their lips locked again.

"Please?!" Draco gasped when he took a breath.

"Please?" Harry whispered the question.

"Touch me?" Draco asked softly.

"Through the clothes?" Harry asked.

Draco only nodded so Harry laid down beside him and let his hand rest on the bulge of Draco's trousers.

"Wait!" Draco said hesitantly.

Harry stopped, pulling his hand back.

"No." Draco grabbed Harry's hand. "I did change my mind, but just a little." He closed his eyes. "Trousers off. Pants on."

Harry nodded, smiling slightly as he watched his boyfriend unbutton his trousers. He helped pull them off and started to pick up where they left off but then decided to match his level of undress.

Finally free of their formal clothes, Harry reached out to caress hls boyfriend. The fabric was soft under his hand though Draco's member was not.

"I want to touch you too." Draco whined.

"You can do that later. Let me make you feel good." Harry murmured, caressing Draco's body. He ran his fingers across the blond's belly and chest, delighting in the shiver of pleasure that rippled across Draco's face.

"Kiss me?" Draco begged.

Harry nodded, happily moving up to a place between Draco's long lean legs. He settled at just the right spot so their cocks would meet.

The contact - even through undergarments - was electric.

Draco's eyes flew open as Harry took possession of his mouth and began to move slowly. He whimpered as sensation overwhelmed him. He lifted his legs and wrapped them around Harry's hips. His hands gripped Harry's shoulders and they moved together toward their climax. Draco got there first but Harry was close behind, collapsing on his side facing Draco.

Laying in the aftermath, they stared at each other breathlessly.

"That was..." Draco began.

Harry smirked. "Yeah."

"Better than my dreams." Draco whispered, smiling slightly as he stood up. "I'll clean up first."

Harry nodded but followed and commented softly through the door. "I was pleasantly surprised by the note last night. Sleeping while holding you was really nice on Wednesday and knowing you liked it enough to do it again made me incredibly happy."

"I'm glad. So what did you end up doing yesterday?" Draco quickly but thoroughly washed himself while listening to Harry go on about brunch at the Weasleys and Dudley demonstrating his defense training. He summoned new underwear causing Harry to duck and as he opened the door to switch places, he asked if Harry had done any of their homework.

Harry nodded as he grabbed his overnight bag and hurried through his clean up while keeping the conversation going. "I did start a few things but as you're my partner in some of the classes I can't finish the assignments without you."

"Let's plan some time next week for that. I have the trip to Gringott's and you have research to do tomorrow." Draco smirked as Harry joined him in bed. "With Christmas the day after we won't be able to concentrate."

Harry nodded sleepily, opening his arms in invitation. "Sounds good."

"Goodnight, Harry." Draco whispered as he happily relaxed into the warm comfort of his boyfriend's embrace.

It was the day before Christmas eve and Hermione had been hard pressed to get some alone time since she overheard the Headmistress' conversation. One of the other Ministerial Squad members always seemed to be 'going the same way' or 'had something to ask her'. It was getting quite annoying but she'd finally slipped away to 'visit Myrtle' which apparently didn't appeal to Umbrage's spies. She called out to the ghost but received no answer so she settled down to relax.

"Missy Mione."

Hermione jumped. The voice was surely Harry's elf, Ziva, but she hadn't expected it as she'd entered Myrtle's bathroom alone and locked the door.

"Master Harry sent Ziva to say thank you for the letter. It is being much helpful and he promises to tell his family to be cautious. He says you is needing to be careful too and sends a gift." Ziva handed over what looked like a book. "If you be finding anything else new, you is to put a letter in this box."

Hermione lifted the cover to see an empty space. "It's a fake book!"

"It be keyed to your magical signature and Ziva's elf magic. Ziva will know if you put something in and come to get it." The little elf explained. "If someone else opens it, it will appear as a blank journal."

Hermione sighed with relief. "This will be invaluable! Thank Harry for me and tell him I'm going to the library today."

"Ziva promises!" She giggled and popped away.

Draco stood proudly next to his mother as they waited for their account manager, Gorlok, to fetch Harry's before they would be led to a private office.

He allowed his hands to curl into fists under his cloak. He was about to put on the performance of his life to hopefully meet a dragon. His father had met with him before they'd left the manor and together they had decided to carefully reveal Draco's identity as the new Dragonlord. The oaths currently in place would keep the goblins from spreading the news outside of the goblin nation.

"Lady Malfoy, Mr. Malfoy, it is good to see you both again." Gorlok nodded to each of them before gesturing toward the other goblin. "This is Korlag, Lord Potter's estate manager."

"Young Malfoy, Lord Potter has spoken of you in his recent letters. Please, follow us to Gorlok's office; this way." Korlag turned and began walking through a door and down the hall.

Draco felt his mother walk briskly beside him as they kept up with the goblins. This visit to the bank was for him more than his mother and he thought back to the conversation he'd had with his father that morning. This was a necessary step in the fight against the full integration of muggle culture into the Magical World.

"Mr. Malfoy," Gorlok took a deep breath. "I must inform you, before we begin, of our security clearance which is of the highest level."

"Yes, Father told me..." you know most of the secret. Draco nodded, completing his thought inside his mind.

"Good." Gorlok nodded once. "Now, when your mother wrote last evening, she indicated that there would be more than one item on the agenda and Lord Potter's estate manager was needed."

"Indeed. Korlag is handling a matter related to my betrothal with Lord Potter. A gift he gave me needs adjustment." Draco explained as he took the scepter from his pocket.

Korlag brought out a sheaf of parchment with sketches on it. "These are the designs our goldsmith came up with."

Draco looked at each one and chose his favorite.

"Very good. The scepter itself will remain intact but, once shrunk, they will add more gold to each end to allow for the braided leather strap." Korlag explained. "As per Lord Potter's request, these gold loops will have runes to discourage theft. The alteration will only take an hour or two."

"Perfect. Thank you." Draco nodded solemnly but, internally he was melting at Harry's thoughtfulness. As Korlag left with the scepter, Draco turned to Gorlok. "The next thing we need to speak of is my aunt, Bellatrix Lestrange."

"Oh?" Gorlok frowned.

"There is something in her vault that belongs to a friend of the family and this friend has asked for it to be returned." Draco explained. "As her heir, I request to visit the vault and remove the item."

"That is within your rights as heir." Gorlok agreed. "Anything else?"

"I wish to visit my own vault after that." Draco told him.

"I will see to it." Gorlok nodded and went off leaving them alone for a moment.

Draco huffed lightly. "I thought there was a dragon, Mother?"

"That isn't what I said, Darling." Narcissa snorted softly.

"Fine. You told me there was an opportunity for personal growth." Draco pouted. "What does that mean if it doesn't mean they have a dragon?"

"I have made proxy oaths, Draco." She told him pleasantly. "I told you all I could without breaking them."

"I understand, Mother." His eyes lit up when he remembered that, by the proxy oath a person can't divulge certain details such as the protections on the vault. "You know, I may have to play the Gryffindor in order to be a Slytherin."

"Understood. Now hush." She smirked at him when Gorlok opened the door.

"Right this way." Gorlok said as he gestured.

The cart that waited for them was large enough for four beings so it was no surprise that there was a bit of breathing room. It swayed on its track as it sped along and the Malfoys discreetly held on for dear life.

Just before the cart came to a halt, a horrible clanging sound rang out and he felt it. There was a dragon nearby and they were afraid of something. Draco exited the cart, looking around and shivering. "Why am I cold?" Until he saw the dragon, he couldn't do or say anything that would reveal his forbidden knowledge.

"The Thieves' Downfall, young sir." Gorlok grinned. "It removes any subterfuge such as polyjuice potion, disillusionment charms, human transfiguration, or invisibility cloaks. If there's nothing to remove, it simply gives the person momentary chills."

Draco nodded with a pout. "And the clanging noise?"

"A precaution." Grolok explained. "We have Magical creatures as part of our protection of the deepest vaults and they are trained to retreat after hearing that noise."

"Hmmm..." Draco didn't like the sound of that. "Alright, which vault is Aunt Bella's? There's an awful lot of doors."

"This is the Lestrange cluster." Gorlok nodded. "There are three living members of that family and as the French branch of their tree died out in 1927 all assets were combined here."

Narcissa frowned. There was something familiar about this obscure fact but she couldn't put her finger on it.

"The vault you're looking for is here." Gorlok told them as he held his hand out for the key.

Narcissa handed it over and watched as the door opened for Draco to walk in and look around.

His eyes quickly scanned the room until he found what he was looking for. "There!" He pointed.

Narcissa used her wand to summon the gold cup and then removed the curses against theft before placing it in her bag. "Shall we go?"

"Yes. I need some pocket money as I still need a gift or two." Draco said, crowding the goblin.

"Just a moment, young man!" Gorlok protested as Draco rushed out. "The clangers must sound so the guardian knows to leave."

"It's a dragon, Mother!" Draco said loudly, drawing the attention of several goblins and the dragon, herself. "The guardian is a dragon!"

She was large and lovely, a shimmery white color and on the thinner side. She roared and started to ready her fire breath but Draco rushed forward.

"Wait, Mistress Dragon, please!" He shouted with his arms held wide and visibly empty of his wand. "I want to talk to you!" His heart was pumping wildly hoping she would realize what was happening.

The goblins raced forward, whether they meant to chase him away or discourage the dragon from her possible attack, nobody was quite sure but when she heard the words, the dragon stopped in her tracks. This also stopped the goblins who stared at the Malfoy heir.

"A long time have we dragons waited for Myrddin's heir to appear!" She lowered her head and closed her eyes.

Draco took a shaky breath but refused to show the nerves he was feeling. "I need to speak with Director Tukron..." He let his eyes travel the length and breadth of the dragon before turning angry silver eyes on Gorlok. "Immediately."

"Director Tukron is a very busy being, young Malfoy." Gorlok shook his head, hedging. "I can give him a message if you like but he isn't likely to have time today."

"Gorlok..." Draco's voice switched to a lower register. "I am not some political activist lobbying for something that is unreasonable. If all the dragons in your charge look as unhealthy as this one, they aren't being treated very well! How many do you hold?"

"Well, I..." Gorlok hesitated.

"This dragon has scars and it's much too thin!" Draco broke in. "Dragons haven't had a voice in centuries... Well, now they do... I am their voice! I am the new Dragonlord!"

"As you can see, Gorlok. The condition of the dragons your people care for is of great concern to us." Narcissa glanced at her son and back at the goblin. "Earlier, you told us that your security clearance is among the highest in the company. You know that he carries Merlin's blood."

"I will inform the director that you've voiced concerns." Gorlok huffed. "He may wish to meet with you."

Draco saw the speculative stare directed at him. "I'm increasingly concerned that you're not answering me."

"Several dragons are kept in the deepest caverns to secure the oldest vaults." Gorlok stared at him for a moment longer before finally signaling a nearby goblin, who rushed into a cart and took off toward the surface. "He goes now to inform the director. When we return, I am certain he will be available."

Draco nodded regally and turned to face the dragon. "I will speak with the goblin leader, Mistress dragon. You and the others will be treated better or they will be sorry."

"I am Opal, little lord, and I have been alive for well over three centuries. The gruff little creatures are not as bad as you think."

Draco frowned but nodded once. "I will take that into account, Opal. Thank you."

"Come, Draco." Narcissa said softly. "Your vault awaits."

The young Dragonlord followed his mother's lead but hurried through his vault, filling his coin purse with a mix of galleons, sickles, and knuts before getting back into the cart because he was anxious to see the director.

Rather than bringing them back to the surface, the cart rolled down the tracks further and deeper than Draco had ever been. When they stopped at an unfamiliar vault, Draco began working himself into a strop but lost his steam when he realized the goblin standing at the door was none other than the director himself.

"Your ancestor opened several vaults when he returned to England, Young Malfoy. One such vault was designated for the future Dragonlord." Tukron motioned toward the door after dismissing Gorlok. "I am told you spoke with Opal and are concerned with her health and living conditions along with the training the dragons undergo...?"

Draco nodded tightly.

"Allow me to ease your worry." Tukron grinned confidently. "Merlin left one healthy matriarch, her eggs, and several young dragonlings in my great grandfather's care in the same year he opened this vault. Opal is the oldest living member of the original matriarch's line. She has lived through many battles with thieves who have attempted to access the deepest vaults. That is where her scars come from."

"So they're treated well?" Draco asked intently. "Opal said I was mistaken but I felt her fear as we descended to the Lestrange Vaults."

Tukron sighed. "The training of the dragons is such that she probably feared having to battle yet another thief and possibly prove herself unfit to continue. She is old and nearing retirement."

Draco could understand that. "What does retirement mean to the dragons?"

"They are moved to reserves like the one that employs Lord Potter's cousin." Tukron confessed.

"So..." Draco shivered thinking of Charlie so far away. "They live their lives out on a reserve. It must be lonely without their families... without anyone who knew their mothers and grandmothers."

"No." Tukron explained. "The dragons are hatched in reserves and most are allowed to remain there but some are best suited to being trained as guardians to the vaults. We will send Opal to the reserve in the Himalayan Mountains where her sister still lives."

"Or you can keep her here to guard this one vault." Draco suggested.

"Nobody even knows this vault-" Tukron protested until he understood what Draco was really saying. "Exists..."

"Exactly." Draco nodded with a smirk. "I'll pay her expenses. Let her feel useful for a few more years."

"As the Dragonlord wishes..." Tukron grinned. "Would you like to see what Merlin left you?"

Draco nodded, taking a deep breath. "Is there a log or something?"

"No. He didn't want anyone to know what was inside." Tukron told the young man carefully. "My great grandfather was the only witness to the opening of this vault and he swore a secrecy oath along with creating a lock which would only open with a willing sacrifice of blood from the vault's heir and the director of the bank. One drop each at the same time."

Draco nodded and stepped up to the door panel which held two sharp prongs. At once, they pricked their fingers and gave the needed blood allowing the door to swing slowly open. He didn't know what he expected but it wasn't the ordinary vault he was seeing. Granted the things inside were exceptionally old but it looked very similar to his own vault. Robes, furniture, chests full of books and brewing equipment for potions.

A strange feeling came over him, drawing him toward the farthest corner of the vault.

"Dragon?" Narcissa called as he seemed to wander away from her.

Draco knew his mother was calling to him but he couldn't form a reply so he beckoned for her to follow him. They soon stood in front of a knee high chest which he quickly opened.

"What are these things, mother?" Draco whispered as he looked at the leather objects that were decorated with intricate detailing. Some of them had metal plates that showed celtic dragons.

"I'm not certain, darling." She frowned at the chest. "Come along, now."

"It is quite alright, Lady Malfoy." Tukron stepped forward and looked into the chest. "They are modeled after pieces of armor."

"Are they decorative, then?" Narcissa asked.

"No." Draco shook his head. He frowned as he pulled out a cuff bracelet. "I don't know how or why but there's a conviction in the back of my mind. It's symbolic of the Dragonlord. It tells the dragons what humans ...or beings, I suppose... belong to me. This one - specifically - will be worn by my mate."

Narcissa's eyebrow rose.

"It's a feeling I have, Mother." Draco told her softly. "A strong one."

She sighed but nodded in acceptance.

"This one is yours." Draco held two small boxes.

Narcissa gently took and opened the one he'd indicated. The silver necklace's pendant depicted a dragon curled around her nest which held one egg that was glittering in the torch light. "It's beautiful."

"The other one is for Father." Draco said, releasing it to her.

She lifted the lid and saw a dragon head with glittering eyes. Without a word, Narcissa closed the lid and placed the box in her bag. "Is there anything else you need here, Draco?"

"This is for Blaise..." Draco held up a metal armband, looked around and lifted a leather utility belt with a dagger, a small pouch and a wand sheath on it. "And this is mine."

"That dagger is goblin made." Tukron said quietly.

Draco put the belt on, placed his wand in the sheath, and then pulled the dagger. "It's lovely."

"From this point on, Young Dragonlord, my youngest son will take over as your account manager while Gorlok remains with your parents. You will meet him next time as he's currently assisting the dragon trainers and doesn't know of the transfer. You will have access to the vault whenever you need. It is only the first time that my blood was required." Tukron confided. "For today, I will send Korlag to retrieve you. Do give Lord Potter my regards."

"I will. Thank you." Draco murmured as Tukron left.

"While we await Korlag, is there anything else you want to look at here?" Narcissa asked.

"Everything!" Draco smirked as he walked directly over to a large trunk with the Hogwarts coat of arms. "Do you know what could be in here, Mother? Ancient texts or spells that only Merlin knew! Potions recipes! The map to Avalon!"

"I'm sure it's nothing so grand." Narcissa laughed and sat on a nearby ottoman. "Perhaps some old Hogwarts robes or his homework?"

"Perhaps..." Draco glared at her playfully. "But that's still more interesting than my personal vault at the moment."

She smiled at her son. "I suppose so."

"I think I'll skim the books and take some home to read." Draco looked around for something to put the books in. Pointing to a pile next to his mother, he called out. "That satchel looks handy."

She reached out to get it for him and looked inside. "Draco, there's something in it."

Draco would've answered but, just at that moment, Korlag appeared at the door, a bit awed. "I am ready to escort you to the surface at your convenience, Young Dragonlord." He said. "I'll be in the cart."

When they were alone again, Draco frowned at his mother. "Whatever is in it can stay, I'll look at it later. For now, I'll just grab a few books and put the bracelet and armband in it until I can give them to their recipients."

She agreed and handed it over. As they left the vault, several handlers were leading Opal into the cave beside it.

"Opal!" Draco walked over and bowed his head. "I spoke with the director. You'll be guarding a special vault for me and I'll get to see you everytime I visit."

"I will do my best, Lord of Dragons... may I ask who travels with you?"

"This is my mother." Draco said softly, feeling her come to stand beside him.

Opal bowed her head to Narcissa who bowed pleasantly back as if meeting any of his friends' parents.

"Come, Draco." She murmured.

"People are waiting on me, Opal." Draco sighed. "I hope to see you soon."

"And I, Lord of Dragons."

Draco backed up toward the cart, keeping eye contact with her as long as he could before the cart turned a corner.

"Your new bracelet is finished and sitting in my office, Dragonlord." Korlag informed his passenger a moment later.

Draco took a deep breath. "Korlag, please... only use my title in the tunnels. Nobody outside the goblin nation should find out unless I tell them or I and my family will be in danger."

Korlag nodded. "Shall I pass that along?"

"Yes." Draco replied quietly, adding 'please' when his mother cleared her throat.

They quickly arrived at Korlag's office where Draco was presented with a box the size of his hand. The young blond promptly took the bracelet out and almost asked his mother to help him put it on. It felt surreal knowing that this would signal others that he was committed to Harry. But would it really? It seemed to Draco that something was missing.

"Does Harry have...?" He stopped and shook himself. This was stupid. He wasn't used to feeling this way. It shouldn't matter that there was nothing to specifically say that it was Harry's bracelet he was wearing. People should just know by now that he was dating Harry.

Narcissa hid her amusement well upon realizing what was happening in her son's mind. "A letter H... or perhaps the Potter crest?"

"May I make a suggestion?" Korlag asked innocently, having understood the situation as well. "A small charm in the shape of a water drop, with a flame embossed upon it?"

Draco nodded silently.

"I can send it to you this evening, unless you'd rather wait...?" Korlag replied dutifully.

"How long would it take and what is the fee?" Narcissa asked but the goblin shook his head.

"Lord Potter has instructed me to accommodate any additional alterations to the scepter at his expense." Korlag replied. "Our workers will be able to create this small charm in moments since they keep a small stock of templates."

"We'll wait." Draco murmured, once again giving the bracelet back. He wanted his gift to be complete before leaving the bank.

Narcissa was impressed with Harry's intuition. He apparently knew Draco well enough to guess that he might want something else done to the bracelet. She waited until they were alone before leaning in close to quietly comfort him. "It is not shameful to love, Dragon. You wanted the bracelet to be more personal - it is quite understandable."

"It isn't the affection I feel towards him that embarrasses me, Mother." Draco tried to explain. "I'm embarrassed by the way it makes me act. You saw. I was hesitant and unsure."

"Confidence will come with time." Narcissa smiled softly.

Korlag returned at that moment and Draco smiled to himself as his mother fastened the bracelet around his wrist. They thanked the goblin and left, visiting several shops before using a portkey to return home.

Harry was so deeply immersed in the search for information that he didn't notice Draco walking into the library.

Lucius, however, looked up at the disturbance.

Draco nodded politely to his father but put a finger to his lips and crept up next to his betrothed to surprise him. "I'm back!"

Harry's eyes lit up as he jerked backwards with a gasp. "You're speaking parsel and your hands are visible!"

"Want to see?" Draco asked with a smirk.

Lucius cleared his throat and moved his books to another table with a sigh.

Harry nodded eagerly and held out a hand to hold Draco's. The leather strap was soft and twisted into a thick braid that was connected to the shrunken scepter at each end. "It's perfect." That's when he noticed the charm and looked up at Draco. "I love it but..."

"I asked for something that symbolizes you... or us..." The young blond shrugged. "It was Korlag's idea."

"It doesn't just symbolize me or us, Draco." Harry shook his head. "It symbolizes the elements of our houses and the elemental powers coming back into the world through me-or... well, us...I guess."

"Are we finished with sentimentality, yet? We have news, and I feel certain you and your mother have some to share as well." Lucius spoke through pinched lips. "If you'd like to share your family news, you can do that while going to my study, Potter. I'll gather Tom and Narcissa and meet you there."

Harry and Draco smirked, suppressing their laughter until he had left the room.

"So what's going on?" Draco asked, standing up and pulling Harry up beside him.

"The Weasley kids will join us as scheduled at Hearthstone Manor via portkey tomorrow morning, but Arthur has another day of work and Molly wants to wait for him before taking the trip." Harry told him as they walked, hand in hand through the hall. "They'll arrive early Sunday morning."

Draco nodded, slowly opening the door to his father's study. "I've finished my Christmas shopping."

Harry smirked at his boyfriend and tugged him down onto his lap on the small couch across from Lucius' desk. "Was that before or after meeting a dragon?"

"Ah, that would be telling!" Draco smiled widely, not noticing the book at the far end of the room which was beginning to glow.

Harry chuckled and drew the blond into his arms for a kiss that ended just as Draco's parents joined them, relating the news that Tom was on his way.

In order as they come up in the chapter...

1- Italics alone = inner thoughts

Bold italics = parsel dragon tongue

1A - Draco speaks English but understands dragons when they speak to him. Humans and goblins only hear Draco's side of the conversation.

2- Yule is still celebrated in many areas of the world and I combined several practices into the Malfoys' (hopefully) unique tradition.

3- There is a real recipe for the buttermilk bread mentioned by Narcissa if you care to Google it.

4- Sylphs are true mythological creatures embodying the air element.

5- The Boobrie is a true mythological creature from Scotland exactly as Luna explains (with the exception of the imprinting ability - I took some creative liberty)

6- As you can see I played a little with the consent issue in our smut scene. Harry was a good boyfriend and stopped when Draco said 'wait'.

7- The Thieves' Downfall is a piece of canon from the Deathly Hallows. I took creative liberty adding the chill effect to innocent people.