A Marauder's Cub

by Starian NightZz

Dumbledore should have learnt that you can't keep a wolf's cub away from him. An angry Remus Lupin learned about the manipulations that have almost destroyed his life and his best friends, and decided that enough is enough. He soon became what he had been all along. A wolf. A guardian. A protector. A Marauder.

18. What Is It Like to Like Someone?

Chapter Eighteen: What is it Like to Like Someone?

Dear Hadrian,

I am seriously close to punching someone, or even casting a few well-placed hexes. I'm not picky.

Either Albus Dumbledore or that human disposal waste by the name of Ronald Weasley.

Where should I begin?

First of all, several things have happened since the events at Samhain. There was quite the fuss with the entire troll incident, and the parents and the Ministry weren't even informed about said attack until the students have written home.

Dad looked mad enough to strangle the Headmaster with his beard.

And the entire situation with Granger doesn't really help any matters either.

I've mentioned how Mr and Mrs Granger have sued the school for neglect and child endangerment, and Mum had taken on their case as their lawyer. They won hands down, since Mum also could produce proof that Hogwarts' wards hasn't really been checked in several decades; so Dumbledore's argument that the school is perfectly safe is weak.

Dumbledore as the school headmaster was forced to foot the bill for Granger's medical expenses whilst she was in Saint Mungo's, and even the rehabilitation and therapy that she had to go through later on.

I've tagged along with Mum over the Yule break when she had gone to visit Mr and Mrs Granger, and actually had a chance to speak with Hermione Granger. She admits that with the attack, and with how unwelcoming that the student population have been, she was in two minds about just returning to the Muggle world and not looking back. The bullying she had gone through under Ronald Weasley's hands was the last straw for her.

(Once term starts, I'm going to make Ronald Weasley's life hell!)

But Mum managed to change Granger's mind by suggesting she try Beauxbatons Academy of Magic in France instead. They're a lot more tolerant of people with mixed magical heritage, considering that most Veelas made their homes there. That, and I'm sure I heard Viktor mention before how Beauxbatons had a wider range of subjects than Hogwarts—something that definitely piqued Hermione's interest.

Mum definitely mentioned that on purpose, knowing Hermione Granger's thirst for knowledge from her conversations with Mr and Mrs Granger.

Heck, when I looked up the list of magical schools available by writing to the ICW, I found that nearly every single school in the world had a wider range of subjects than Hogwarts! And Hogwarts definitely isn't in the top ten list of best magical schools in the world at this point, despite Dumbledore's claims. We're in the bottom twenty at best.

I'm honestly surprised we're still considered an ICW-certified school, considering how much standards have dropped over the last couple of decades.

Mum and Dad, and even Gran, were properly horrified when I brought my findings to them. I even told them how Durmstrang had a wider range of subjects even in First Year, as compared to Hogwarts. It certainly explains why Durmstrang, Beauxbatons and even Ilvermorny School of Magic in America have been constantly vying for the number one spot as best magical school in the world for the past few decades.

Gran for one has totally no idea that so many subjects that were readily available from her time as a student have been systematically taken out or reduced so drastically that it wasn't what it once was. She was all for taking me out of Hogwarts and home-schooling me instead. Or even send me to either Durmstrang or Ilvermorny, considering how backwards Hogwarts is, as compared to the other magical schools.

Dad however managed to convince Gran not to for now, and had instead hired tutors for me during the holidays for subjects that Hogwarts doesn't offer. He was also saying something about tutors for the core subjects once I am in Third Year too; as the curriculum Hogwarts used isn't the one that was approved of and used internationally.

So I foresee a lot of self-studying in my future. Especially Defence.

Susan however would be sharing my lessons with me, so I definitely won't be alone in that. That in itself is a big relief.

Mum as well had her day in court just the other day, representing the Grangers who have filed a court case against Hogwarts and the headmaster, as I've mentioned before. It is a very clear cut case, as what Dad said. The jury were ruling in the Grangers' favour within thirty minutes.

Dumbledore, from what I heard from Gran and even Dad over the years, had definitely lost lots of influence and his positions first from what had happened with Sirius, and then you. The only position of power he has left is the Headmaster position. But with the entire fiasco over Samhain; even Hogwarts is being closely monitored by officials from Wizarding Child Services and even the DMLE.

That, and the next election is coming up soon, so Fudge likely doesn't want to be impacted too much.

There was a ruling to have Gringotts goblins and curse-breakers review the Hogwarts' wards yearly, and to add on or remove wards as they feel fit. Curse-breakers too would be sweeping Hogwarts in all it's entirety after the end of the school year for dangerous objects. And I also heard from Mum that the DMLE will also be heavily involved in the hiring of the Defence teachers from now on – due to how a poor Defence education will also impact their future Aurors.

From what is said, Dumbledore was protesting every step of the way. I've attached several copies of the Daily Prophet reporting on the court case and even the happenings at Hogwarts for you. I'm sure Sirius at least would get a kick out of reading it.

It seems like Gringotts had been chomping at the bit for decades now, due to not being allowed to check on and maintain Hogwarts' wards which had been their duty since the last Treaty was established. I'm half fearful of what they would find at the end of the year, with how hard Dumbledore had been protesting.

(If something serious happen again, I seriously doubt Gran would even try to stop Dad from withdrawing me out of Hogwarts, though it is a Longbottom tradition to have our schooling at Hogwarts)

Dad is on the School Board, so we would hear about the findings either way. And from what I heard, he's also the Potter and Black proxy who too have places on the Board.

How are things at Durmstrang by the way? You mentioned an end of the year school fair and even a cultural festival when we were visiting you over Yule. And even the Inter School Tournament between Durmstrang, Beauxbatons and Ilvermorny that takes place every year. The next one is taking place a month after Yule, isn't it? Draco and Viviane mentioned that.

All these sound interesting! And definitely a lot more events than what is available at Hogwarts! I kinda wished that I am attending Durmstrang with you now.

P.S. Has Viktor confessed yet?

~Neville

Dear Neville,

Sorry for the late reply! Arcturus had been down with the owl flu lately, and had to be isolated for his own good. So it took me awhile to get this to you, since he's the only owl we trust with this task, as Hedwig is too unique looking, and I don't want to risk sending her all the way to Britain from where we are!

Siri, it seems, had heard enough complaints from Draco about the distance between Hogwarts and Durmstrang, and how long we have to wait each time we write to each other. So he promised that he's creating something in the works that would fix the long distance communication problem we have.

Not the communication mirrors, which Aunt Alice and Uncle Frank have promised to getting us one each once we're in Third Year, at least. It seems like Siri had an idea in mind for his next big invention. All his previous ones after the invention of the communication mirrors have been small ones.

Marauders Inc definitely had some booming business since it's establishment. There was talk of opening another branch in France. And did I mention that Siri brought in Barty Crouch Junior as a junior partner about a year ago? Barty didn't seem to want to return to Britain—totally understandable, if you ask me. Too many bad memories there. And he might have his name cleared, but with how Britain is, there will probably be more than a few people there who wouldn't believe that he's innocent.

He is sad to leave behind his best friend, aka Uncle Frank. But like what Uncle Frank had explained to him once, he is only a mirror call away, and he often visited Bulgaria as it is anyway. As it is, we see you and even Susan pretty much every holiday anyway.

Years spent under the Imperius Curse by his own father had also taken it's toll on Barty's body. I don't know the full story, but I know Healer Emil and Healer Milan have managed to heal Barty enough that he's able to live on his own and such without the need of constant supervision. But he won't be able to become a Healer again, no thanks to the damage done to his body.

From what is said, Barty will likely be on a permanent potions regime that will help with his body and even the slight damage that was done to his mind no thanks to being under that curse for years.

Sirius originally brought Barty to Marauders Inc with him as a temporary worker when one of the assistants have called in sick, and Siri couldn't find anyone else at such short notice to fill in for him. Barty has a Mastery in Charms, from what is said—and a NEWT or OWL equivalent for Marauders Inc is all that Sirius asked for, considering the type of items that he sells.

Bulgaria had seen quite a boost in our economy ever since Liese had moved her business over, and ever since Marauders Inc was established. Sirius don't work in the shop himself, but he does the inventing part, and leave the accounting and sales to his Gringotts manager.

Barty had definitely found his place with Marauders Inc, and he had definitely perked up a lot since working there. In fact, he was the one to suggest quite a few of the inventions that Siri had done over the years. I know that Aunt Narcissa was saying something about a potential partnership in the works between Marauders Inc and Liese's shop.

Some kind of soothing products for alphas and omegas, I think?

P.S. If you don't quit it with the Viktor comments, I'm going to send you a hexed letter! I've learned quite a few useful curses and hexes at Durmstrang, so don't think I won't!

~Hadrian

XXXXXX

Hadrian Potter-Black woke up one day in his Durmstrang dormitory room that he shared with his cousin feeling very different.

His body felt curvier.

He had a sweeter scent.

He also felt lighter.

Hadrian sighed when he realised what had happened.

He had presented as an omega.

He knew that it's been coming for awhile now, since most people present between the ages of eleven and fifteen. There were also secondary gender tests that people can take from as young as a few months old. Most parents does take their children to get them tested as soon as possible, if so they can help them prepare for their presentations easier.

Hadrian was careful as he got up from his bed, testing the floor gingerly with his bare feet, and was relieved to find that he's able to at least move and walk properly. Hedwig who is on her perch next to the window hooted with confusion, eyeing Hadrian with her large yellow eyes.

"Draco?" Draco who is still asleep in his bed only let out a slight grunt with the sound of his name. "Draco, wake up!"

Draco let out a grunt when Hadrian threw a pillow at him, effectively waking him up.

"What?" Draco gave a groan, rubbing at his eyes. "It's early. And it's not time for breakfast yet, is it?" He looked out of the crack in between the curtains covering the windows only to see that the first rays of dawn had yet to set in over the mountains that he could see.

"Dray." The sound of Hadrian's voice caused Draco to turn towards his cousin immediately, all the sleep in him vanishing. "I…presented."

Draco's eyes went wide.

His grey eyes trailed up and down his cousin before he covered his nose when he caught the sweet scent of apples and honey that was always present around Hadrian before, but much sweeter. The scent of a newly presented omega, his mind helpfully injected.

"…Okay, let's get washed up and dressed. We're going to the infirmary."

XXXXXX

Liese Pearce can't help giggling at Sirius Black's sour and disgruntled expression even as they sat across each other in a corner booth in the Black Cat Café – a regular haunt of theirs since their move to Bulgaria, and also quite the popular hangout spot for those living in the magical district of Alinea where they both lived and worked.

Black Cat Café not only functions as a café in the daytime where people could come in to get food when doing their shopping. At night, it also functions as a bar of sorts where the adults could come in to unwind.

Thus, this is where Liese found herself with Sirius Black on a Wednesday afternoon. Though it is more like Sirius had asked her out to complain to her, since his cousin and his best friend would just laugh at him when he does. And Marko as well as Anastasia isn't any better.

"Come on, we both know that it's coming for nearly a year now." Liese tried hard not to laugh at Sirius. Can she think of this as some sort of date…? "We also knew that Hadrian is an omega. So what are you so upset about?"

"I don't want my baby to grow up so fast." Sirius sighed, and Liese had to bit on her lower lip to stop herself from laughing.

She had seen Sirius as 'Lord Black', and had seen the way dozens of women have tried throwing themselves at him, or even throwing their daughters at him, and had seen the way Sirius had turned them all down.

…Seriously, does he even likes women at all? Or is he the type of alpha that goes for male partners?

Liese had seen Sirius in his Lord Black persona and even as plain 'Sirius Black'. Even still, it sometimes amuses her to see the way Sirius fusses over Hadrian still. Though considering what had happened when Hadrian was a small child, Liese isn't really surprised. Heck, Narcissa and even Remus were equally protective over Hadrian. As is Draco.

"You're going to get another flood of betrothal contracts coming your way soon enough." Liese concluded, and Sirius only groaned, and she laughed. "Honestly, I'll suggest that you at least make the fact that Hadrian is betrothed to the Krum heir public—in Bulgaria's magical society at least, and not just amongst the House of Lords. Or you'll be receiving it by the dozen until Hadrian is married, I'll bet."

Sirius winced. "I don't even want to think of someone taking my baby away just yet, let alone marriage," he sighed. "Hadrian is going to need to get the full omega talk once they're home from the holidays."

"I'll take care of that for him." Liese promised, and Sirius looked highly relieved. Talks about mating and consent and bonding, and even the whole sex talk, but in detail. Omegas have more to be worried about than their alpha and beta counterparts, unfortunately. While there are harsh punishments in place for those that abuses an omega; sometimes, even that isn't enough of a deterrent for some.

Sirius sighed again. "I really shouldn't be talking about my kid all the time when I was the one to ask you out, didn't I?" He looked apologetic.

"I don't mind you talking about Hadrian." Liese shook her head immediately. "He's a lovely child. Quite a sweet kid too. Whoever gets to marry him in the future will be a lucky one."

Though whoever does that in the future had better be prepared to face an entire family full of protective mama bears. It doesn't matter even if Hadrian is happily married and bonded with three kids and grandchildren, Liese knew. That family will be protective until the day they died.

Sirius smiled with the way he always did whenever he talked about Hadrian.

"But he's presented really early, didn't he?" Liese wondered. "Most of us normally presented around the age of thirteen or even fourteen. The oldest presentation age I knew of is at age sixteen."

Sirius nodded slowly. He and James have presented around the same time during their Fourth Year. It was during term time, and Madam Pomfrey have to isolate them both in special rooms separately for a few days until the worst is over. Most of his peers have presented around the same age. Sirius only knew of a rare few that actually presented at age thirteen.

"The Old Families believed that if a child presented early, it normally means they're destined for something great." Sirius revealed, and Liese blinked. "It's why the magical world have always cherished alphas and omegas, and the bonding practices. Unlike the muggle world, discrimination towards the secondary genders almost never happened here."

If it does happen, most of the time, it is because those are either Muggle-raised, muggle-born or even from families that don't practice the Old Ways.

"I am actually glad to know that when I first knew I am magical." Liese admitted. "The muggle world, even now, isn't exactly great for omegas. Discrimination is a lot better now, but it doesn't change the fact that more than a few muggles still thinks of omegas as sex toys, or that omegas should just stay home to be breeding tools."

Sirius sighed. If there is one thing he disliked about the muggle world, it is that. Unlike Britain, you never really have to venture into the muggle side in Bulgaria. The magical side is totally separated from the muggle side, though they still do keep a close connection and relationship with the upper echelons of the muggle government.

"It is why Lily was so worried when we first learned that Hadrian is an omega." Sirius admitted. "Magical Britain took on too much of the muggle world's beliefs when it comes to the secondary genders, I'm afraid. Hadrian will still be the future Lord Potter, no matter what, and I've also named him my Heir. But unlike Bulgaria, people do look at omegas differently in Magical Britain. His place will constantly be questioned there. There are several reasons why I moved to Bulgaria."

Liese hid a smile behind her cup of coffee. "Viktor won't let anything happen to him."

XXXXXX

"It's been such a long time since we were both back at our old alma mater." Crow said, looking around the place of what was once the Great Hall with some fascination, but was now filled with tables and booths showcasing the students' work.

It's the end of the year annual school fair. And this year, Crow and Rean have decided to visit their old alma mater after receiving a letter from Hadrian.

"They did make quite a few additions to the school since we last attended." Rean agreed. "I'm going to check out the art side. Hadrian made me promise to drop by should we ever visit. You're going to check out the Quidditch teams, right?"

"Yeah." Crow nodded with a frown. "A recent letter I received from Viktor had me a little concerned."

Not to mention that with Hadrian newly presented, it is sure to send Viktor's protective instincts through the roof. He was the same way himself long ago when Rean first presented as an omega. It was worst for Crow though, given how he's not only battling against his instincts as an alpha, but also as a vampire.

Honestly, given how it had only been a few months since Hadrian presented, Crow is almost surprised that Viktor isn't at Hadrian's side with every possible moment.

He had visited the Black household after he'd received a letter from Hadrian, informing him that he'd presented, and how some of the older years have been acting all weird around him. From what Sirius had told him, Durmstrang's headmaster, Nikolai Kostov, had to ask Sirius for permission to room Hadrian with someone else, given how Draco is an unpresented alpha. And it's not just obscene, but also against the law to make an omega room with an alpha once one or both of them presented.

From what is said, it seemed like Hadrian had ended up rooming with Lucas Michaelis who is an unpresented omega. Both boys were already friends for awhile, so the change isn't too much of a shock to them. All that changes is Draco moving over to the room that Lucas had used previously when he'd roomed with Mikhail Vasilev who is an unpresented alpha; with Lucas moving over to the room that Hadrian had previously used with Draco. Their rooms were just separated by a few doors, so it isn't that much of a shock to them.

The Quidditch pitch stands were fairly crowded, with the school teams having just finished up a game apparently. And if Crow's eyes aren't deceiving him, he is certain he just spotted a few members from the National Bulgarian team present amongst the stands.

Crow soon spotted the person he is here for and made a beeline towards the teenager who is walking back towards the school after having changed back into his school robes.

"Viktor."

Viktor Krum looked surprised to see Crow. "Lord Crow."

"I'm your parents and Sirius' representative here today, as none of them could get away." Crow answered the unasked question. "I haven't been back in Durmstrang for a long time. Why don't you show me around?"

XXXXXX

"Well, it sure has been a long time since I was last back in Durmstrang. They sure did change quite a bit. More clubs too." Crow commented even as they wandered around the area where the clubs were showcasing their works. At the moment, they are in front of the Photography Club's booth.

Viktor was unusually silent, and when Crow looked over at the teen, he saw that Viktor was unusually taken with the photograph he is staring at. Upon a closer inspection, Crow then realised that the photograph seems to be that of the first years' orientation. Hadrian is very clearly visible in the photograph.

"Viktor, let's take a break." Crow clapped a hand onto the boy's shoulder. "Let's get a bite, yes?"

XXXXXX

There weren't many people around the makeshift café that Durmstrang was using as a rest stop for the visitors that have arrived for their end of the year school fair. This was much to Crow's relief, as it meant that no one will really be paying much attention to them.

"Is something wrong?" Crow asked at last, merely watching Viktor drinking from his glass of Butterbeer.

Crow only patiently waited, and his patience was soon rewarded when Viktor set down his glass on the table.

"How do you know that Rean is the one for you?" Viktor asked at last. "You know, when you were students?"

Crow made a sound in his throat with that question. "The first time I met Rean, he was part of the group that Towa was in charge of as the student leader at that time," he answered. "Towa roped me in to help as part of their orientation. And the first time I set eyes on him, my first thought was, 'this is the person I'm going to marry'." He fingered the silver ear cuff visible on his left ear. "Muggles mostly can't comprehend the bond between an alpha and an omega. Especially a fated pair. Pairs chosen by the Goddess, though those aren't really common. We're magical beings. There's a reason why we marry young. Back in my day, my marriage to Rean was considered late, as we married a few years after Rean was out of Durmstrang. Though we've already bonded and mated when Rean was fifteen. So to the vampire clans, we're as good as married. Our own magic tells us if we're compatible or not. It helps us to find our other half. I'm just lucky enough to find mine so early." Crow admitted. "It did however take me awhile to woo him. I think it's similar in your case, Viktor. At least you grew up with Hadrian, and he didn't dislike you from the start. I made quite the horrible first impression on Rean when we first met that it took me two years before I can even consider myself a friend to him. That, and I'm sure Rean actually felt a pull towards me too. But he was trying to deny it." Crow sighed, recalling all the ups and downs of his subsequent courtship and then marriage to his omega. "Back in our day, the discrimination towards omegas were a lot worse. So in his own way, Rean was trying to prove himself." Crow looked at Viktor. "Does this answer your question?"

"Kinda." Viktor admitted. "I think…I liked Ri since we were children. I just…" He swallowed nervously. "I got so jealous whenever I see some random alpha or even beta hitting on him, or getting close to him. Then when Hadrian presented, I just hated the attention that our schoolmates gave him." Particularly a certain someone. "I just… I like him so much." Viktor admitted. "I don't know if it's really love, like the one you had with Rean, or the one that my parents had. But I felt drawn to him from the very beginning. I just…want to protect him. I want to see him smile. That's all."

Crow nodded. "That's exactly how I felt about Rean," he revealed. "And if you asked your parents, I'm sure they're the same way too. But Viktor, you're older than Hadrian. You're at the age when your body is preparing you for hormones and um…the ability to mate in a few years." Viktor's face is bright red with Crow's blunt analysis. "Whereas Hadrian is just at the age when he would just be presenting. Would you be willing to wait for him, no matter what it takes? Will you always be there for him?"

Viktor stared down at his hands. "…I'll wait," he said at last. "No matter how long it takes. As long as there's a chance that he'll choose me, I'll wait."

Crow eyed Viktor carefully. "…And if he ends up falling in love with someone else?" he asked cryptically.

Viktor flinched. "Then I'll back off," he said at last, albeit reluctantly. "Hadrian's happiness and health is all that matters to me. Nothing more."

"I see." Crow nodded, as if seeing something that he likes. "Then why don't you make your intentions clear to him then?" Viktor blinked. "I know you're technically betrothed. Even still, the whole purpose of a courtship is to get to know your partner better. In the hopes that you can put a ring on their finger at the end of it. No matter how long it takes. It is a time honoured tradition, and tells everyone—Hadrian especially, that you take this very seriously and would be willing to do whatever it takes to win his heart. If you decide that is what you really want, and that Hadrian is the one you wanted, why don't you make your intentions clear? Communication is the key to everything, Viktor. If you don't say anything, nothing will ever change."

XXXXXX

"It really feels like the year had just gone by in a flash, hasn't it?"

It is Durmstrang's annual end-of-year cleanup where the students and the clubs have to clean up their club rooms and even the dorm rooms for the graduating students to prepare for the next schooling year. The Quidditch teams only really have the locker rooms to clean which really didn't take much time at all. And thus, Viktor is currently helping Hadrian to tidy up his art studio.

As someone taking the Art elective, and even being in the Art club, Hadrian was able to rent an art studio for his own usage. Most of the time, whenever he couldn't be found anywhere, Hadrian's friends knew that that is where he could be found.

As Hadrian is a returning student, all that they really have to do for the art studio is to tidy it up and make sure that no art supplies are left lying around. They also have to do a quick sweep and clean of the room.

While the school has house elves to do the majority of the cleaning of the school, Durmstrang Institute had believed that having the students do some manual work occasionally helps to build character and have them be more appreciative of what they have. There are always the occasional noble student that grumbled about the 'forced labour', but they are normally quickly cut down.

…Viktor can harbour a guess as to the identity of one such person that will grumble as such.

"It's been fun." Hadrian admitted, packing away his paintbrushes. "And from the letters I've received from Neville, I got the impression that things at Hogwarts are in a real mess now. I'm glad that Siri didn't want to send me and Draco there."

From the things that Viktor had heard about Britain these days, he can agree.

"Ri?"

"Y-Yeah?"

Hadrian had been really nervous around him lately, and Viktor is relatively sure that Hadrian is awake that day when he had posed as his model, and thus, remembered everything.

Viktor groaned internally. Lord Crow is right, like he had been about most things. He really needs to make things clear, or Hadrian will never understand. While he is aware that with betas, they don't delve into romantic relationships until the age of fifteen at the very least; Viktor also knew from his Secondary Genders class that things with alphas and omegas are different.

They tend to mature emotionally a lot sooner than betas. Thus, it isn't uncommon to see alpha-omega pairs that started dating as early as thirteen in Durmstrang. Many scholars have theorised in the past that it's their instincts as alphas and omegas that aided in that, especially after presentation. It is part of the reason why a class covering the secondary genders and sex-ed were added to the school curriculum for the Cultural Studies class every year.

One of the most important lessons that Professor Alexandrova had repeatedly emphasised since Viktor's first year is the respect of an omega and even a witch. They have the right to refuse an alpha's advances and didn't have to accept a courtship that they didn't want. No alpha has the right to forcefully bond an omega to them. In the past, before Bulgaria had enacted omega protection laws, that tend to happen a lot.

But ultimately, several of those 'relationships' have a pretty sad end to them. Either the omega killing themselves or said omega having had enough of the abusive sexual relationship that was forced on them, and had lashed out, killing the alpha.

While omegas are traditionally the 'feminine gender', and there is still the general misconception that they are to be protected, that isn't quite true. Omegas that are enraged or feral can be more dangerous than any alpha, especially when they're protecting children. Alphas are generally hard wired biologically to protect an omega, but the majority of them—thanks to the lessons in school, tend to treat omegas as equals and respected them.

Sadly, Viktor can't say that that is the case worldwide. He knew that there are still various countries that still sees omegas as nothing more than breeding tools. Britain isn't as bad as some of those countries, but he knew that there are prejudice against omegas there, from what he knew from Lord Black. Liese who owned the Glittering Stars shop that is a shop catered towards alphas and omegas, had never said much of her time in Britain. But it is what she didn't say that answered Viktor's questions about how Britain treats the secondary genders, especially omegas.

Viktor sighed, putting away the last of the colouring pencils, and turning to face Hadrian who had his back to him.

"Will you look at me?" Viktor walked towards Hadrian, gently turning the smaller boy around so that he is facing Viktor. The alpha had been really careful to control his strength since his presentation; since due to his size and strength, he could easily hurt someone if he isn't careful.

And the last thing he wants to do is to hurt Hadrian.

Hadrian found it difficult to look at Viktor in the face. And somehow, that hurts more than anything else could.

"…You…heard what I said that day, didn't you?" Viktor asked at last. "The day when I came down to model for you."

Viktor hadn't had a chance to look at the finished painting. But he knew from his classmates that said painting became part of Hadrian's portfolio that day at the end of the year school fair.

Hadrian didn't answer, but only nodded.

"It's not a lie." Viktor murmured, grasping Hadrian by the wrist, and making the omega look at him in the eye for the first time in weeks. He didn't like it when Hadrian is trying to avoid him. "I like you."

"V-Viktor?"

"I know what my parents and Lord Black decided when we're children, and they did say that we're free to break the betrothal if we want to once we're old enough." Viktor said. "The entire arrangement is for your benefit. But… I like you." He murmured. "You don't have to give me an answer now. I just…want you to know, that's all. My parents had a love match. As did yours. I want the same thing they did in any future marriage of mine. To be able to hug and kiss my partner because I do love them, and not just being two strangers that shared a bed like I see happen every now and then with some families. I won't make you do things that you don't want to, Ri. But if you feel the same for me at all… If I am ever so lucky to gain your love… I want to court you. Properly." Hadrian's eyes widened. "Even if we're technically betrothed. I intend to make my intentions clear. This isn't just because of some arrangement that my parents and Lord Black made for us when we're children. And it isn't because I'm an alpha and you're an omega, or that we're childhood friends. I want you. And I'm willing to wait for you until you're ready. Until you can figure out your own feelings. That's all I wanted you to know. I'll wait for you. Until you're ready to give me an answer. I'll wait. If there's ever a chance that you felt the same way for me… I'll wait."

XXXXXX

Hadrian was extremely distracted since the annual clean-up of Durmstrang until they've returned home for the summer holidays—a fact that his family had noticed. But if they knew the reason why, none of them were badgering Hadrian about it at all.

In fact, Sirius and even Narcissa have been preparing Hadrian and Draco for their Heir duties during the holidays—having lessons like estate management and even finance management for about two hours each day. Hadrian had already been learning how to manage his money and the various estates that he owned as the sole Potter heir. But until he turns thirteen, Sirius would be acting as Regent for him, and he knew that Sirius had been getting the goblin account manager to grow the Potter wealth after fixing the mess that Dumbledore had made of the Potter accounts during the few years when there wasn't anyone to manage it.

Thankfully, that old man knew better than to try to steal from the Potter accounts—not that he could even if he wanted to, with the instructions that James had left behind. But he did leave behind quite the mess for Sirius to untangle, and had basically made the Potter accounts stagnant.

Sirius too had quite delightfully deprived one Elphias Doge of being the appointed regent for the Potter seat over at Britain and had instead appointed Andromeda as the regent instead, despite the old man's protests. Elphias Doge, as far back as Sirius could remember, was lodged so far up Dumbledore's backside that it's a surprise he did anything without asking the old goat's permission. Sirius honestly wonders how Doge's wife and children took it.

It is little wonder that Doge's son barely wanted anything to do with his father at all, and had moved out immediately the moment he'd graduated Hogwarts.

Being a Peer, as what Sirius had taught both Hadrian and Draco, comes with certain responsibilities to the people, and they have a responsibility to ensure that they give back to the world or to the people in some way.

Narcissa as Draco's Regent, had been giving back to several charities that assist omegas and witches that suffered from sexual or domestic abuse—charities that Draco would get behind easily.

Thus, Hadrian decided that a break is in order a few days after his birthday on a Wednesday morning, and decided to get a comfort toy at Liese's for his upcoming heat. With him already presented, he knew that heat cycles are going to be a regular thing for him from now on. However, despite that, he also knew that he won't really be fertile until the age of fifteen at the very least.

Though Sirius had made sure to educate him and Draco thoroughly about the whole sex thing, and that he is to never let anyone touch him sexually. Sex with a virgin, as what Sirius had taught them, and even what the school had taught, could grant a boost in magic for both parties if done properly. But if done through rape, the victim would lose a portion of their magic, with the rapist gaining it. The protective amulets that Sirius had made for them both could only protect him so far.

Liese did also give Hadrian a very thorough talk about omega sexuality, protection, heat cycles, and the whole mating process two days after he'd returned home. It is a highly embarrassing talk, but one that Hadrian recognised that he needs to hear. Not everyone in Bulgaria respected omegas the way that the people around him does, after all.

"It's really nothing to be worried about, Hadrian." Liese smiled at the boy who is soon becoming like another little brother or even a son to her. "First heats are always scary, as you had never experienced it before. But it's nothing like what you're imagining. You just have to make sure that no alpha is near you when it does."

Hadrian nodded meekly; he had learned as such from Sex-Ed classes and from Liese. While legally, it is difficult to charge an alpha who raped an omega when the latter is in the throes of heat; socially, it is deemed unacceptable.

There are heat suppressants that he can use when in school, but it was generally recommended for omegas and alphas to not rely or use suppressants too often, as it can really harm their bodies and magic. In the worst case scenario, it can even render them infertile if taken in large doses.

Hadrian then picked up a teddy bear that had caught his eye on the shelf where Liese stocked the comfort toys for young children and omegas. The teddy bear's fur was soft and fluffy, and even had a smile on it's furry face, with a black and silver scarf around it's neck.

"I'll take this." Hadrian chirped, and Liese smiled even as she took the bear from Hadrian to ring up the purchase. "It kinda reminds me a little of Viktor."

"It does, doesn't it?" Liese chuckled, taking a closer look at the toy bear.

"So Aunt Cissy told me you went on a date with Siri the other day."

Liese blushed. "I did. Cissy set it up for us," she answered, putting the bear in a store bag and handing it to Hadrian. "It's honestly a surprise, but I had fun. And I think your godfather did too. I liked him since we were in school together, but he always seemed out of my league. Not to mention that socially, we were eons apart. He is the Black Heir at that time. And me? I was just…a bastard child." Liese smiled sadly.

She can't deny that it hurts, having her own blood family reject her because of her half-Muggle blood. As far as she knew, the Fawley family were all but destroyed now no thanks to the war. There were only two survivors as far as she knew—some old aunt that didn't have long to live, and a boy that is a distant cousin of sorts to her that is from the branch family, but is named the Heir and now the Fawley Lord.

As far as she knew, the boy should be just a few years out of Hogwarts now, and apprenticing under a renowned Rune Mistress from France. The boy, Michael Fawley, had actually written to her a few years ago when he had taken up the Heirship and had found out about her existence. He had officially accepted her as part of the Fawley family, but Liese had still retained her mother's maiden name.

They have exchanged regular letters and even the occasional photo over the years, with Michael promising to visit her once he could the moment he had finished his apprenticeship. He already had a position waiting for him at Gringotts, from what is said, and would be joining his best friend who is an apprentice curse-breaker for Gringotts.

The Fawley family had pretty much lost their standing and influence within Magical Britain, no thanks to majority of the members having sided with the Dark Lord during the war. Majority of the family is long dead by now, due to it. Thus, it would be a long and hard road to restore the family name and reputation. Not to mention that the Fawley fortune is pretty much gone by now.

"To be honest, if Sirius wants something more, I really wouldn't mind. But his priority would always be you, as it should be. I heard from Remus that he swore to never put someone or something else above you again for as long as he lived." Liese smiled. She then blinked at Hadrian's unsure expression. "What's wrong?"

Hadrian was silent for a long while. "…What is it like to like someone? How do you know…if you love them? How do you know if you want to spend your life with them? Tie yourself to them?"

Liese had an amused smile on her face with that question. She knew that it would be coming any day now, though she suspects that Sirius wouldn't be happy with it, one way or another.

"First love is always complicated, Hadrian." Liese said gently, and Hadrian looked up at her with his wide green eyes. "To like someone…" She trailed off slowly. "You want to be with them. To be able to do things together. To hold their hand. To kiss them." Hadrian flushed red, and Liese laughed. "You want to have them all to yourself. You think about them. Like when you find something new or try something new, you might probably think, 'they will like this, or enjoy this'." Liese smiled knowingly at Hadrian. "Does this feel familiar?"

"I-I think so…"

"What's with the questions? Did Viktor finally said something to you?"

"I-I wasn't talking about Viktor."

Liese laughed again. "Hadrian, almost everyone knows that he had a crush on you since forever," she pointed out, and the omega blushed. "You do too, don't you? I can see what you don't say. Sirius and Remus weren't able to make it to the end of the year school festival that Durmstrang had a few months ago, but I heard about it from Lord Crow and Rean when they came by to get something from my shop. They said you did a painting of Viktor that was on display at the Art Club booth. Someone tried to buy it off you, I heard, even offering about five hundred Galleons? But you wouldn't sell it."

"I didn't need that money. And I wouldn't sell that painting, no matter what."

"I saw a few pictures that Rean took of that painting you made, Hadrian." Liese commented, eyeing the young omega knowingly. "Why did you chose to paint Viktor that way? I'm no artist, but when I looked at that painting, I can just feel the love by the painter. I imagine it might be why the Art Club advisor made that painting the centrepiece as well, even though you're a First Year. Viktor seems more…real in that painting of yours. Not that the ones you previously always did of Viviane and Draco aren't good. They are. It's just that you put in more effort and care in the one that you did of Viktor."

"Liese…"

"I won't pretend I know the circumstances regarding the both of you. But Hadrian, a love like this sometimes comes by only once in a lifetime. Trust in yourself and your instincts. You've known Viktor all your life. He had always been there for you. Will he ever hurt you?"

"N-No." Hadrian shook his head. Viktor would never hurt him. Or anyone else, he knew. "He…told me he likes me. Said he'll wait for my answer. That he'll wait, no matter how long it takes me." He looked at Liese. "How do I know if I like him back? That this 'like' is really 'love'?"

"You don't." Liese shook her head. "But haven't you been thinking about him all day as it is?" She pointed out. "So shouldn't you know your answer? I know you're only twelve. But you're also magical, and an omega to boot. Magic dictates a lot on how we do things, Hadrian. Especially when it comes to things like bonding and marriage. It's why so many alphas and omegas bond young. And even married right out of school."

"He said he wants to court me." Hadrian revealed. "That he want to do things properly, regardless if we have a betrothal in place or not."

Liese's eyes widened with surprise. "Well now, that is a surprise. But knowing Viktor's personality, I can't say I'm surprised that he wants to do a traditional courting," she commented. "A courtship is a time honoured tradition. One that had been done for centuries. It tells everyone that Viktor is entirely serious about you, and he intends to win your heart. A courtship also allows the couple to know each other properly. The entire process is for your benefit. You can end it anytime you want. Viktor knows that even when he offered you this."

"I always…felt comfortable with him." Hadrian revealed. "When we first learned about our betrothal, I was…happy. I thought that spending my life with my best friend…wouldn't be so bad. I like him. But… I don't know if this is 'love'."

"You have the time to find out if it's the type of 'like' and 'love' that you want, Hadrian." Liese said gently. "Why don't you give Viktor your answer?"

Hadrian smiled and nodded, before turning tail and scampering out of her shop, with the bell tinkling somewhere as he did so. Liese sighed, as she rested her chin on her hand.

"Young love," she sighed wistfully. "First loves are always the most memorable."

XXXXXX

Viktor Krum was as pleased as punch when he walked out of the stadium that the National Bulgarian team always practiced at, with one of his best friends, Natasha Michaelis next to him.

Both of them were approached by the Bulgarian team manager and scout during the school fair after the exhibition match they had, and were approached with an offer to play professionally. After much discussion with their individual parents, an agreement was reached to have them play professionally on the National Bulgarian team, but trainings have to account for their own schooling. Both sets of parents were very firm on that note. That under no circumstances must training affect their schooling and grades.

Naturally, it means that Viktor and Natasha can't play on their school teams anymore.

"I wasn't expecting the offer until near Sixth Year at least which is normally the age when the national team starts scouting amongst Durmstrang players." Natasha Michaelis commented. Unlike Viktor who plays Seeker, Natasha plays Chaser.

"Well, it's good, isn't it?" Viktor shrugged. "I always wanted to go professional." He grinned. "I have to promise my Mama that I won't let this affect my grades though. I still intend to take a Mastery in Warding. Need some sort of backup plan once I can't fly anymore."

It only takes a misplaced Bludger or some sort of accident before it'll end a Quidditch player's career, after all. Viktor had seen it happen way too many times on newspapers before.

"Same here." Natasha nodded. "I know my dad is disappointed that I didn't want to be a Healer, but he understands. It's kind of a family tradition at this point, considering that Parseltongue and Parselmagic runs in the family. But I didn't inherit that gift. Lucas is the one that wanted to help people. All I really wanted to do is to play Quidditch. But if I can't, I want to do cursebreaking."

"It's still helping people in a way." Viktor pointed out, and Natasha nodded. "We're going to have to decide what subjects we want to take our NEWTs in after Fifth Year anyway. No harm to think ahead."

"Yeah." Natasha nodded. "Besides that, did something happen?" Both reached the spot where they could call for the bus to take them back to the Alinea district. Unlike the Knight Bus in Britain which had a notorious reputation for throwing the passengers about, the one in Bulgaria thankfully don't drive like they're in the middle of a typhoon. "You seem rather quiet lately. Lucas had said that Hadrian seem really quiet of late as well, especially during the last few months of school."

Viktor was silent for several moments, not reaching out to call for the bus just yet. "I told Hadrian I liked him," he revealed at last, and Natasha's eyes widened a slight fraction. "I said I wanted to court him. Properly. And that I'll wait for his answer, no matter how long it takes."

"Finally recognised your own feelings, huh?" Natasha smiled, nudging Viktor in the side with her elbow. "We were wondering what it's going to take. But I understand your apprehension. Hadrian's only eleven. Twelve now, I guess." She counted on her fingers, recalling how Lucas was invited to Hadrian's birthday party just a few days ago, so he had definitely turned twelve by now. "But he's already presented as an omega, didn't he?" Natasha is expecting her own brother's presentation to take place any day now. Most members of her family have the tendency to present early, probably due to their Parselmouth heritage. Even Natasha had presented at the age of twelve when most of her peers only presented when they were about fourteen. And unlike her father and brother, she didn't inherit the Parseltongue ability. "Alphas and omegas that have already presented tends to mature emotionally faster than most. We all know that."

"I know." Viktor nodded. "I'll wait. No matter how long it takes. As long as there's a chance that he'll choose me—"

BANG!

Both teens gave a jump when there was the tell-tale sound of the magical bus's arrival at their spot, before the doors to the bus opened.

"A ride, you both?" The bus driver called out, spotting Viktor and Natasha. "We're just dropping off someone, but we can take on two passengers. Fare is two Sickles."

"Yes." Natasha nodded. "To the Alinea district—"

"Viktor?"

Natasha blinked, as she turned towards the source of the voice only to see a wide-eyed Hadrian Potter-Black alighting from the back doors of the magic bus, one foot on the ground, and with the other still on the step of the bus.

"Ri?"

Natasha smiled. Seems like Viktor won't be riding the bus with her, after all.

"Hey, we'll catch up soon, okay? I'll be at Mikhail's if you need me." Natasha murmured, clapping Viktor on the shoulder who nodded dumbly. Natasha doubts that Viktor even heard anything that she'd said at all, even as she got on the bus. "To the Alinea district, please. Nearest that you can bring me to the Vasilev Manor."

The doors of the bus closed behind Natasha, before another loud bang signals their departure.

And then, for several moments, silence reigned.

"Uh… Did you come to meet me?" Viktor asked at last, finding his own tongue. "I got into the National Bulgarian team, by the way." He smiled.

"Congratulations." Hadrian smiled back, small hands clutching at a store bag that Viktor recognised being from Liese's. "Just…" He swallowed nervously. "Viktor, can we talk?"