Prince Consort

Chapter 43

"Inform Jackson and the others to come to my rooms the moment they return," Severus requested of Alfred, as he scooped Harry into his arms. Ignoring the indignant murmuring of his already nearly asleep mate. He was much too tired to continue walking, considering vampires didn't need a lot of sleep it spoke volumes. No, he was sleeping to aid in his healing and perhaps even his pregnancy. "And bring me the most accurate book on male carriers." He wasn't leaving Harry alone to go to the vault, or even a meeting.

He would endure people in his private space just this once.

"Maria wishes to speak to both of you," Alfred explained as he easily kept up with Severus' long strides.

"Was she injured in the fight?" Severus stiffened, had someone thought to collect her and get her away from the fight?

"Not at all, she was however, picking off the enemy from behind her cabin," Alfred informed him. "Jackson and the others who had moved to escort her ended up joining her, unable to convince her to leave." She was a mother to Harry, would protect him come hell or highwater. No doubt very glad that her son was safely tucked away at Hogwarts.

If anything happened to those two boys…he didn't want to imagine Harry's reaction. He was a vicious little thing when wronged as proven today. They were like brothers to Harry, closer than blood brothers were known to be.

"Bring her up," Severus replied, she deserved to see Harry, to know he was doing okay all things considered. No doubt she was absolutely worried, especially with the lockdown. "Inform her she can return to the cabin tonight." Which would be when the lockdown eased.

"I will do," Alfred replied, "Is there anything else needing your immediate attention?"

"I suppose Lupin should be informed as well, unless he already knows?" Severus questioned.

"He escorted Black out of the room long before you informed the council." Alfred explained, he'd never been one for stiff formality. Which meant he hadn't gotten on well with the majority of the 'Elder council' at all. Its perhaps why Glen had picked him to aid Severus in his new role. Either that or the fact he looked seventeen, while all other elders actually looked…elderly. He along with all Elders had been advisors to all Lord Princes for generations. Except he'd been selectively chosen to help lead Severus instead of a dozen, no doubt not desiring to overwhelm Severus at the time.

"Then bring both of them up," Severus murmured, "That is all, thank you Alfred,"

"I shall return momentarily," was all Alfred replied, already making his way towards the vaults, having an idea on which book would be best for Severus and his mate. Normally consorts took years to get pregnant, Harry was not only the youngest, but also the quickest to end up pregnant.

Alfred made quick work of getting into the vault, finding a few others already inside. A few of the Elders he noticed. Ignoring them, he made his way to the appropriate section, finding what he was looking for. His finger delicately drawing along the row of books, until he found what he was looking for. Sliding it out, he nodded, perfect, this was written by one of their own, who had documented the entire progress and had it published.

Then an idea came to mind, something perfect for Harry to read. Who better than the very wizard's journals who had gone through the exact same thing? It took some digging and shifting for Alfred to find what he was looking for. Removing the box gently and reverentially, he opened it up and found the contents relatively undisturbed.

Delicately tapping his wand against the journals, they copied themselves. Once the spell was done, he reclosed the box and sealed it from the elements. Then placed it back in its spot, before doing the same with everything else.

Scooping up the four journals and the book on male carriers, he took off towards Lupin's quarters. He could sense that Maria was also there, which saved him a bit of time and explaining.

He knocked on the door, waiting patiently for an answer.

"Hello, Alfred," Maria smiled in welcome, as she opened the door, "Come on in, I apologise for this," waving her hand in the direction of the heated conversation Remus and Sirius were having.

"Is Harry okay?" Remus immediately turned his direction to Alfred, waiting for his answer instead of continuing his 'debate' with Sirius regarding what he'd just seen. As an Auror it went against all Sirius felt and believed. The creature world had different laws and regulations; Sirius knew this. The vampires took care of their own, it's the way it had always been. The Prince's were the law of the vampire world.

Alfred smiled, "He's recovering well," he informed Remus, "The Lord Prince wishes to see you and Maria as soon as possible."

"But Harry really is recovering?" Maria asked, worry consuming her, at the way he worded it. Why else would Severus Prince want to see them? She relaxed seeing the smile still on Alfred's face. He looked as young as her son, it was mesmerising to know he was so old and full of wisdom.

"He's going to make a full recovery, it's just general aches and pains he has," Alfred reassured the worried mother of three. She might not be biologically Theo's and Harry's mother, but they most certainly saw her as one.

"We can leave right now," Remus informed Alfred, knowing that as soon as possible usually meant right away. "We'll finish this…conversation, when I get back." He told Sirius, who was now pouting over the fact he couldn't come. Sirius was rather predicable that way, he couldn't act like that then be asked to visit Severus. The last thing Harry needed was negativity thrown his way when he was finally coming into his own.

He wasn't a wizard anymore, he was a half-vampire, a creature, a Lord consort, with that came obligations that Harry couldn't set aside for Sirius or his beliefs. Sirius wouldn't last long as a creature with that sort of mindset. Which made his wolf rumble, they loved their mate but disliked his thinking. The wolf was rather simple, and by product of that, Remus was too.

"Follow me," Alfred replied, without waiting for further questions or such, he began to make his way towards Severus' quarters. Informing the guards that he was coming with two approved guests. No doubt they were still on edge, more so after the bomb Severus had just dropped on them all. Their Lord's consort was pregnant.

Remus and Maria were quick to follow the vampire, despite them knowing the way. They were very bright individuals and knew they wouldn't get to see Harry unless they were accompanied by Alfred. So, they wasted no time at all.

Alfred did slow down for them, since they could not walk or run as swiftly as he. He could run around the entire grounds in the time it would take for them to get to his Lord and Lord consorts' rooms.

"Everyone seems…in high spirits," Maria commented, as she observed the others, considering what had just happened it was rather unexpected.

"Yes, they are," Alfred agreed, he too was feeling the elevation of spirits. It would take a while before they came off the high that their Lord consort was with child. It was another generation of Princes being born. The next Lord, after what happened with Eileen Prince…they had thought for sure this would never happen. So, when another Prince ascended to power, they'd been so hopeful, now things were returning back to normal – so to speak – where the line was secure.

Yes, they were indeed happy with this new turn of events. Especially now knowing exactly how badly it could have gone wrong. They could have lost not only the Lord Consort but the future ruler of their world.

"Why?" Remus asked befuddled, sure it could have been worse, they could have lost, or lost more people. It just seemed out of character for the sombre spectacle they'd seen earlier after the battle.

"You'll see," Alfred informed them, a subtle smirk working at his lips, wondering how they'd react.

"We'll that's not ominous at all," Remus murmured perplexed, as they followed Alfred passed two sets of guards, two sets he'd never seen before actually, the last set of guards before Severus' rooms were Strom and Corin which was definitely normal. Despite their happy appearances they were further on guard when it came to Severus and Harry.

"No, definitely not," Alfred said drolly, "Storm, Corin," he nodded to both of them, as they let him passed, well aware of the fact they were invited. They had not only heard Severus' earlier conversation but been informed by Alfred himself that he was approaching with the pair.

He knocked briskly at the door, before entering, "Maria and Remus as requested, shall I order refreshments?" or were they not staying that long went unasked. The doors to their rooms were open allowing Severus to see Harry despite being in the adjoining sitting room. The doors were very rarely closed regardless, and less so now he reckoned; Severus wouldn't want his mate out of his sight. The injuries and pregnancy were probably playing havoc with his emotions.

"Yes, refreshments, and two additional goblets of blood," Severus requested, he knew more than enough of them had been out to gather more than they would need for weeks. Not stopping until the pantry cupboard was filled with warm fresh blood.

"I shall have Damien bring something up momentarily," Alfred agreed, or rather have Damien have something escorted up by the House-elves after making sure everything was as it was meant to be or cook and make something himself. He probably wanted to do something to keep busy so might end up making a feast. He'd need to make sure he didn't go overboard. He was going to be cooking a feast regardless, and didn't need to waste too much food on only two people. "How is he?" evidently Harry was awake, although he honestly couldn't tell from here.

"Stubbornly remaining awake," Severus said dryly, "Hopefully after another goblet of warm blood he'll give in." he'd slept maybe for five minutes once he put him to bed, if you included the time slept sleeping in his arms perhaps seven or eight minutes in total. It wasn't enough for an injured vampire let alone a pregnant one. He just wanted to be the one to inform Maria and Remus himself, and Severus couldn't grudge him that. It's not as if he had a lot of people, he could personally tell himself. He only had four people close to him, Maria, Remus, Theodore and Blaise. It was natural to become excited about it, and he was glad Harry was exited.

"Understood," Alfred said wryly, moving aside and gesturing for Remus and Maria to enter.

It was a good job he was a vampire and quick, with the way they'd almost barged into the room in their eagerness to see Harry. Too see with their own eyes that he was indeed, just fine.

Alfred placed the books on the table closest to him, before he slid out of the room unobtrusively after that.

"He's in bed, make sure that he stays there," Severus told them, "Refreshments will be brought up momentarily. He has something he wishes to tell you both, so go on, I have a meeting being held in here soon." Telling them that they would be gone by then, without saying anything.

Maria and Remus wandered through to the bedroom, "Hey, kiddo, how you feeling?" Remus asked, speaking lowly in case Harry had a headache. "Maria is here as well, we're both here."

Harry's eyes opened, showcasing just how exhausted he was, but a beatific smile appeared on his face. "Hey!"

Remus and Maria smiled back, hiding their worry.

"I'm fine," Harry rasped out, "Just achy,"

Remus wanted to demand why Harry hadn't gone to the safe house, to keep safe. Yet he knew it hadn't been safe, Harry's inability to do what he was told had likely saved his life. So, he couldn't reprimand him for that, no matter what.

"Oh, you're always getting into trouble, you're going to give me grey hairs, kiddo," Maria said, brushing his hair from his face with a soft smile.

Harry sniggered for a few seconds before it cut off, "No chance of that," Maria was beautiful, the most beautiful woman in the world he thought. She'd certainly passed her good looks to Blaise, who was going to be just like her and his dad.

"We'll see," Maria said teasingly.

"I…I'm pregnant," Harry told them, eyes positively glowing with happiness.

"What?" Remus squeaked out, shocked and surprised…although Merlin only knows why, he could smell that Harry was sexually active. "So soon?" he asked, still squeaking, huffing at Maria's laughing.

"You're going to be a grandfather," Harry said smugly, "Ha! A dad and a grandfather in the same year!"

"I…are you really happy about that?" Remus asked, to make sure it was indeed what Harry really wanted. His emotions did reveal it seemed to be the case.

"Yeah," Harry nodded vigorously, as a House-elf popped in with refreshments, laying it at the side of the bed. Giving Harry a beaming look before taking off once more.

It seemed the news had even reached the House-elves, no surprise there.

"You okay, Granny?" Harry teased, noticing how quiet she'd gotten.

"Oh, Merlin, no, I'm too young to be a grandmother!" Maria protested, but the shit eating grin on her face that made her look like she was about to become a puddle of goo suggested otherwise. "But I think Uncle Blaise might be happy." Merlin, her son was going to be an uncle. She had shopping to do, she thought with glee.

"How do you think I feel?" Remus murmured wide eyed.

"I'm younger than you," Maria protested.

"By two years!" Remus retorted right back, two measly years.

"Two years is two years," Maria commented, wryly.

Harry bit his lip watching them tease each other. There had been a time where he had hoped they'd get together. But no, they were both only good friends, and it was better that way. Remus would never have gotten over Sirius…and it would have made Maria second best…and she didn't deserve second best to anyone. It wouldn't have even been Remus' fault either…it's life.

Remus hmphed in reply, before turning back to Harry, "How far along are you?" he asked, accepting the food Harry gave him and Maria, no coffee though he noticed idly.

"Not far at all," Harry murmured tiredly, as he sipped on the blood. "A month and two weeks," which was obvious, since Severus had been gone for nearly a month before today.

"I must travel to Italy, they have the best baby items, the most comfortable blankets and throws! The selection here in Britain is definitely substandard." Maria explained, excitedly. "Vampire pregnancies didn't last as long, oh, this is going to be wonderful!"

"There's no need to go into all that trouble," Harry said, but he knew Maria she was going to do it anyway. She loved shopping, any excuse and she was off like a shot, except for when Blaise was home, then they all went with her. Usually given some money with the promise to stay outside the café or gelato store while she shopped. Trusting them to know not to go with a stranger, put themselves in danger and to go to an adult if needs a must. After Remus came on the scene, he'd normally stay with them too. When he could, not always able to if the full moon had been recent.

"Trouble? It's no trouble!" Maria waved off Harry's concern, "You won't know what you're having yet…so neutral colours it is! Creams, whites and the like."

Remus said nothing, knowing better than to get in the way of a woman and their shopping trips.

"Maybe you should go to your favourite spa too?" Harry suggested, "While you're there?" she had been fighting, he'd seen her, from a distance. She could probably use a little pampering.

"Already booked in, I didn't expect to be going shopping too," Maria insisted, "It's lovely when plans come together." She added smugly.

Remus laughed, before biting into his roast beef sandwiches, they were lovely. The food here always had an abundance of meat. Which was what he needed to flourish; he was healthier than ever before. Some of it might have to do with his bond to his mate…though.

"Have you been in touch with Tonks recently?" Maria asked, well aware of her being pregnant. It was quite an unusual situation, she was pregnant with Remus' child, in a relationship with Kingsley Shacklebolt and Remus and Sirius were bonded. The child was going to have quite the large family. It was good though, it wasn't easy raising a child on your own, even with all the money in the world.

"Yes, I informed her we were all okay, that I'd explain later." Remus said softly, his entire face easing considerably as he thought on all this happy news. Finally understanding why everyone was in high spirits. "Just in case she hears any rumours,"

"I doubt it, the fight was contained," Harry murmured sleepily, forcing his eyes open so he could spend more time with Remus and Maria, who he hadn't seen all that often. She spent a lot of time in Italy, at the spa, visiting friends or shopping, or all three collectively, going on holidays doing her usual thing when her 'boys' were at school. "I can't to tell Blaise and Theo." He told them sleepily.

A low clearing of the throat brought Maria and Remus' attention to the doorway, and to Severus himself who nodded just once. It was time, he had a meeting to hold, and they weren't to know.

"We're going to go, let you get some rest," Remus murmured, kissing Harry on the forehead, "I'll come and see you tomorrow alright? Rest, get better, sleeps the best thing for you right now." Brushing his hair back, smiling softly.

Harry gave a sleepy murmur of agreement, already nearly completely out of it, his stomach full and warm.

Maria patted his hand, with a fond smile before both of them made their way immediately out of the room that Jackson and the others were piling into. They said quiet goodbye's before they were escorted by Alfred to the main part of the castle once more.

Severus pulled the covers over Harry's chin, put the food back on the platters and kissed him, brushing away Remus' scent on Harry's forehead. Brushing his hair back again, despite it definitely not being needed, just to get more of his own scent on him.

He then had to force himself away, he had meetings to attend. Best to get them over with while Harry was resting.

"Did you find them?" Severus demanded as he returned from his mate, bringing the platter of food with him, setting it down in the middle of the table.

"Exactly where you said, Sir," Jackson replied promptly, "They've all been dealt with, the two children under the age of seventeen have been obliviated and de-aged and put in an orphanage." De-aging them prevented them from ever regaining their memories, it was fool proof.

They never killed children as the Elders stated, but Severus wouldn't have blamed Harry for killing the woman regardless. Especially knowing what he did, that Rodney had nearly killed his mate and his unborn child. Anyone over the age of seventeen however, was fair game, especially if they fought back.

"You went to every one of our safe houses?" Severus commanded.

"We did, there were five at each location," it was Primrose who replied there, "They weren't expecting an ambush." She said smugly. The entire Clan had been dealt with, no single adult had survived and the children who had…would never know their origins.

"The safe houses are compromised; we don't know who knows of them." Mark stated, worry clear in his tone, "That's…twelve safe houses just unsuitable…"

"Fifteen," Severus corrected him, lips pursed, "You're quite correct."

"So, what do we do? Upgrade the security or start making new ones?" Bob questioned tensely.

"Even with added security, they're compromised, they will be sold off," retorted Severus immediately. "As will the land surrounding them. Alfred will find new ones." And he'd be a lot more selective on those who knew their existence.

"What if we just use the Fidelius charm?" Mark suggested, "It would ensure it cannot be found by anyone."

Severus frowned, he was unsure of such an idea, look at what happened to the Potters. They had assumed they were safe under that spell, he would also need to make at least the 'leader' of the groups aware of the 'secret' so that if anything happened and they were unable to get back to base they could head there, or take his consort and child with them. It was the whole purpose of safe houses.

"It's possible," Severus replied, "I'm rather leery of using that charm, mostly due to the fact my consort's own parents were under that spell." Nothing further needed said to know they'd been betrayed.

"I'd willingly submit to Legilmens if it helps you trust that I would never betray the secret," Jackson vowed.

Everyone agreed, eager to prove they were not another Rodney, the betrayal stung fiercely, even to those who had spent zero time in Rodney's presence. They were brothers, always, when they joined, yet he'd done the unspeakable. Tried to kill their Lord presumably, and Lord Consort…and take over the Prince holdings.

That was unforgivable.

"That I think would definitely need to be a demand I'd make before I allow it." Severus agreed, his faith had been severely shaken. Plus, he had his mate and unborn child to protect now, a lot more to lose than ever.

"I'm happy to go through with it," Jackson repeated, he knew the other group leader would as well. Severus always picked the same people to work as the group leaders when it came to anything that needs doing. It was habit now, he always had the same group, people he knew would take his direction easily.

Same with the core group too.

Severus nodded curtly, perhaps both ideas had merits, Secret Keeper and newer safe houses. He didn't think anyone had succeeded before him in compromising the entire set of safe houses. Still, it couldn't hurt to have more spread out, he'd need to reapply the proximity warning spell and alert spell he had on them all.

He hadn't been alerted to anyone being near or in the safe houses. They evidently had a ward breaker in their ranks, who was liable to be dead now…either that or they paid someone handsomely for it.

"Where is everything?" Severus asked, returning to the matter at hand. He could think on that later, or ask Harry what he'd suggest. They were in this together after all, despite his young age. He'd need to ask Alfred how he'd done in the time he'd been away…that would be his deciding factor.

"It's being brought in as we speak, all of it's being checked over for all manners of spells." Jackson replied.

"All item individually." Mark informed them.

"Mary is overseeing it herself," Jackson added, Mary was the best warder they had, her ability to see magic along with Storm made it quick work. All magic had auras, she'd know just seeing it, but it never hurt to be cautious and have them checked over especially with how hypervigilant they were at the moment.

Everything they'd had in bags, boxes and buildings had been rounded up. Everything they owned was now theirs. All for Lord Prince to inspect, he'd either share the loot, or half of it, sell the rest and keep some for himself, half the time a lot of the things went into the vault for collective use. Everything had been cleaned out, there was nothing left of the Clan. Even tapestries had been pulled down and set fire to. Once the building had been emptied, it had been set fire to until it was reduced to ash. Not that it was difficult with this one, due to the fact they were nomads, the building had been small and practically derelict. They'd had a lot of stuff with them though, a lot of luxurious items, probably gains they'd gotten from thievery.

"Put them in the grand hall," Severus informed them, he didn't want them brought in here. He'd sort through them when he was ready. "In the corner, so that they do not disrupt the proceedings." He didn't need to be told that they would be having a large celebratory meal, with everyone that could possibly come in attendance.

Jackson frowned, "Proceedings?" what had he missed? Were there still people alive that others had dealt with after he'd gone? "Are they still alive?" making sure to make it sound like a question and not a disbelieving statement. Which it was, in actuality, but he would never think to question his Lords decision. Plus, there was an atmosphere around the castle that he'd put down to the end of the traitors.

"Yes, you were absent for the announcement, Harry is pregnant." Severus informed him with smug pride. Merlin, he had wanted to shout it from the rooftops, especially after hearing that Harry wasn't entirely against it.

"Congratulations, My Lord," came the immediate excited murmurs, eyes alight with happiness and relief. They'd hoped one day that Harry would give birth to the next generation…so soon meant he was extremely fertile. They knew everything, including when they first actually started having sex, it was a downside to having super senses. There was no such thing as privacy, not really, although they did try to give the appearance of such a thing.

A fertile mate meant more than one child, at least an heir and a spare, Merlin, how they hated the term…but it did apply here. It would mean they would never end up in the situation Glen and Rose had ended up in, bless them, they'd been devasted by their daughter's abandonment. There would be someone to take over the seat of power when the time came.

It had been so long since a consort had been able to have more than one child. Fertility issues galore, that made having even the one child risky. They usually tried for decades before succeeding. Science and magic had come a long way, but there was only so much even science and potions could do against fertility issues.

No wonder the atmosphere had changed, he'd assumed it was due to the perpetrator being executed.

"Is the celebration tonight?" Primrose gushed, excitement thrumming through her. It would mean her fiancé would be back for the celebrations…as last minute as they were. They were all probably heading back anyway, there was no doubt they'd all been informed in regards to what happened.

"You'll need to ask Alfred that, I'm afraid," Severus informed her seriously, understanding why they would look forward to a celebration. So many had partners, mates, that were separated for months at time. Celebrations brought them all together even if only for a day. He didn't make the same people go all the time though, for that reason, especially if they were mated. "Send him in after this meeting." He added, he would need to have a long conversation with him.

"Yes, Sir," Primrose agreed, making a mental note so that she didn't forget.

"Go on, ask your questions, drink, recover," Severus all but shooed them out of the room.

"Give our congratulations to your mate," Jackson stated, nodding curtly. He knew from frequently debriefing Severus that he actually preferred using his first name in private, that he preferred drinking as equals, that he loathed bowing and scraping and anyone trying to butter up to him.

Severus' gaze softened a tad, "I will," there was no denying that Severus adored his mate. As far back it had either been arranged marriages or mating, this turned out to be both. Normally Lord Prince's rarely showed emotion, definitely not towards their significant other. Fondness may sometimes occur, but that was it, until Glen and Rose they hadn't had happy fulfilling marriages. For a time, it looked like Glen and Rose were going to be the same as every couple. However, they'd been very lucky to fall for each other.

Severus and Harry were different though, the feelings they all sensed would soon transcend love.

With that the group left, and Severus picked the book back up. He trailed his finger down the picture on the front. The picture of a male carrier allowed him to envision what his mate was going to look like while round with his child. He was going to be a father in eight months, perhaps less depending on the baby. Whether the baby was going to be born a vampire or human, or even half-human half- vampire.

Flipping through the pages, he gazed at the picture of what his child looked like right now. Just a mass of cells, it was mesmerising to see, Merlin, he was so overwhelmed. He hadn't felt like this since he gained his inheritance.

His gaze was lost in the book until he heard a throat clearing.

"You wished to see me?" Alfred asked, looking amusedly at the vampire who had been so lost in thought – with hypervigilance at that – enabling him to actually enter the room and stand there for over a minute.

It showed how trusted he was that Severus wasn't even on the defensive with his scent.

It meant more than Severus would ever know.

"Yes, I did," Severus replied, closing the book and speaking firmly, "How did Harry do while I was gone?"

"He did very well indeed," Alfred admitted, "A few grumbled complaints, but I think we know now why…" his magic will have been building a sac, a womb, which will have tired him immensely. The fact he'd succeeded with minimal complaints was quite an accomplishment. It also explained why he didn't want to get up those days, Harry wasn't a full vampire, he needed a little more sleep than ones that received it as an inheritance or bitten or born.

Pride thrummed through Severus, when Harry put his mind to a task, he did it. He was amazing, and it was a pity that he'd need to hold off on completing his N.E.W.T's after working so hard to do them early. Unless, he felt he could take them within the next month…which did not sit well with him.

A male carrier's entire pregnancy was a drain on their magic. As powerful as Harry was…it would be a tiring and magically draining time. If he caused too much of a drain…well, he didn't want to think about it.

He would need to get Harry to read the book, then they would make a decision, together. As it was meant to be.

"All the deals you wanted to see done he accomplished, with ease, despite the fact many of them underestimated him." Alfred continued with an amused quirk of his lips. "He wasn't impressed with the time you were gone." he chided Severus playfully.

"I was quite…unhappy myself," Severus replied dryly, lips pursed, any later…it didn't bear thinking about really.

"The Santos Clan wish to meet up and talk this through," Alfred explained, "They're worried what it means for the alliance and more importantly…fearful of retribution. They'll come here and accept any date and time you can offer them."

Severus arched a brow; they certainly hadn't given an apprehensive air the entire time he'd been on their territory. They'd been courteous, making sure he felt more than welcome, despite the changes they both negotiated between them. Technically, he could consider the contract null and void. Their own had attacked him and his. Regardless of whether they broke off with the Santos Clan.

Still, he pondered, was it worth risking an alliance? Was it worth keeping them onside? When they couldn't control their own people? Then he vividly recalled trusting Rodney for a decade. A vampire that was the son of a Clan leader, not just any Clan leader either…one that used to be in Santos' protection until he broke off, hiding and spying until the right moment.

Worst of it was, it was a rather ingenious move, and would have found himself impressed if it didn't directly affect him. What could he say? He was a Slytherin and he appreciated Sly moves.

"Let them sweat for a few days," Severus stated firmly, "Do not answer any of their calls, this week is mourning and celebrating."

"Kyrian has perfected the map," Alfred added, "It is now live and operational."

"When did he complete it?" Severus asked.

"Ten minutes ago," Alfred revealed, not surprised that the sudden urgency had propelled them into working ten times harder.

"I see, inform him that I want it in my quarters by the end of the night. I don't have any plans for the next few days to deal with it, nor do I want anyone else having to either." Severus replied, as eager as they'd no doubt be. It could be put off for a few days. He didn't want to lose anyone else because they were angry and wanted to let off some pent-up aggression on the Death Eaters and Voldemort himself.

"Understood, but they will need a way to feel useful," Alfred cautioned him.

"They need to grieve," Severus refuted, "If you believe they still need it in two days, let me know and I'll set something up." Trusting Alfred to notice something if he didn't, distracted as he was due to his mate's current state.

Harry might need to take his mind off a lot of things too.

"The Elders, how often are they talking behind my back?" Severus requested; eyes gleaming darkly. Donald had come very close to being decapitated. The way he was speaking to his mate, the Lord's Consort…it wasn't on, added with his protective and possessive instincts…he truly was very lucky indeed.

Alfred blinked, surprised by the unexpected question, he shouldn't have been. "They've been around a long time. They're used to the Lord Prince's seeking advice from them. They don't fight, they don't contribute, they're advisors. They were brought back after you reclaimed your rightful place and you've not asked them for advice even once in all the years on the seat of ultimate power. They also aren't used to being ignored, or better yet, seeing their customs being discarded or what they see as discarded."

Severus just stared at him blankly, waiting on his answer.

"They believe they know best, however, due to your mate's pregnancy, I have zero doubt that they will lay off you for a few years." Alfred explained, "That's if Harry doesn't get them all riled up." Which probably would happen, Harry was very good at that, and he had a feeling Harry would turn the Elders' worlds upside down before he was through.

"How would they react to the laws changing?" Severus questioned thoughtfully.

"Badly," Alfred stated immediately and without reservation. "You saw how Donald got, almost to the point of insubordination. Questioning you in front of quite a few vampires, they're not supposed to do that. It weakens your image within the ranks."

Severus nodded thoughtfully, "And has the Elders ever been disbanded? Except for the obvious," he waved his hand, the obvious being the time between Glen and Rose being ousted and him taking back his birth right.

"No, nobody has disbanded them, they're…expected," Alfred explained cautiously, wondering what on earth Severus was planning. He was grateful he was useful and not just another Elder walking the halls of Prince Castle. Especially with the look that was currently adorned Severus' face.

He was going to change things up, probably just as much as Harry did.

There we go! Will we see something happen to Severus and Harry raise the baby alone taking on the Prince title for himself? Or will Severus live to see his child born? long drawn out pregnancy or giving birth within a few chapters? (perhaps 5-6 chapters) depending on how it goes I mean the main plot has finally been complete, on to the last phase which means maybe 10-20 chapters more ;) depending on what new plots come up...I cant think of any of my old ones so *Shrugs* what can you do? AND FYI THE CONTRACT HAS BEEN UPDATED - SOMEONE SAID THEY DIDNT GET AN ALERT SO I'M POSTING IT HERE JUST IN CASE YOU HAVEN'T! STAY SAFE EVERYONE xx R&R please