Good Intentions

By: SheWolfe7

folder Harry Potter › Slash - Male/Male

Rating: Adult ++

Chapters: 9

Views: 25,752

Reviews: 69

Recommended: 0

Currently Reading: 0

Category: Harry Potter › Slash - Male/Male

Rating: Adult ++

Chapters: 9

Views: 25,752

Reviews: 69

Recommended: 0

Currently Reading: 0

Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor any of the characters from the books or movies. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter V: Delusion

A/N: This chapter is 35 pages long which would be about two chapters smushed into one. Not bad for a four month wait. Not beta’ed so forgive mistakes.

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE- There is a very large plot twist in this chapter that will very likely have some of you going ‘WTF?’ I would like to emphasize ahead of time that NOTHING is what it seems so PLEASE keep that in mind.

Text Formatting:
‘Character thoughts’
Emphasis, Article Heading, setting info
Foreign words, spells, letters, media text (newspaper/books)
- Parseltongue -
:: Telepathy ::

Good Intentions
By: SheWolfe7

Chapter V: Delusion

The Receiving Room
Palacio d’Asturias, Oveido, Spain
Friday the 27th of December 1974
2:07 PM

Evaristo was relieved that he had insisted on adding to the Privacy Wards before beginning their…discussion. It was rather surprising how a dozen people could make the gigantic Receiving Room, seem small. Of course, their raised voices filled the room just as well as if there had been hundreds of guests present. It was an impressive feat, truly. There were several arguments taking place, most using considerable volume, yet all the people present somehow managed not to be distracted from their individual arguing.

Near the fireplace, his father engaged in a heated debate with his uncle and cousin about the merits of canceling the New Year’s Eve Gala.

“It’s too late to cancel such a large gathering on such short notice!” Estavan shouted.

Silvio’s eyes were narrowed with annoyance. “Brother, unless you would risk the lives of your guests and our family again, I would advise that we cancel the gathering until we gather more information about who is behind the kidnapping attempts!”

“The New Year’s Eve Gala was to serve one purpose and one purpose only, to reveal the details of Anastas’ inheritance so that potential suitors could include a prospective marriage contract with their Anterior Courtship Rituals proposals. We could just as easily release the information to a trusted Wizarding Publication and avoid the potential dangers of hosting a gathering entirely.” Cyril pointed out reasonably.

Estavan opened his mouth to reply and Evaristo quickly turned his attention to the next argument. This one was of a less serious nature, in his opinion, but it was one that was long overdue.

“Anastas has been re-instated into the Family and I will not have it said that he was not acknowledged fully! There is no shame in deeding him Montrose Hall, it was originally given to my brother Columbe and now, it rightfully should be given back to his Heir!” Alauda snapped.

Apolinar looked pained. “Madam Folcalor, I am not disputing you the right to act as you see fit in regards to a kinsman. I must protest however, the other…gift that you would give him! It would make the courtship madness a thousand times worse!”

“Every Prince and Princess born to the Torres Family has a coronet, just as every Patriarch or Matriach of a Family has a ring, and every Focolar Hellion is given an account with Gringotts! What right do you have to deny him his legacy?”

“I am not denying his legacy! I simply do not believe it wise at this time to announce the reason why he was given such a portion of the Focalor fortune! A million Galleons may be nothing more than a stipend to those Families who are of the haute monde but when one adds that money to Anastas’ overall fortune, it only increases his desirability!”

Alauda snorted. “A million Galleons is a pittance compared to how much money Anastas makes annually!”

Shaking his head, Evaristo resisted the urge to sigh, not that anyone would have heard him over all the noise. Why his brother even bothered to argue with Madam Focalor he did not know. The Matriarch was correct after all, the addition of a million Galleons and another estate would not halt the madness that would erupt when Anastas’ inheritance was announced.

Near the windows a more potentially dangerous conversation was taking place. Odysseus had decided after the incident on Christmas Eve that it would be best to find Anastas a more suitable mentor. The incident itself had been noticeable and had drawn the attention of the Harpy Council which in turn, had led to one of the Elders becoming Anastas’ new mentor. Elder Asikis was a Squall Harpy in the prime of his life, with thick, waist-length black hair and vivid eyes the color of a churning ocean.

“…Fly twice a day and I was told to wear thirty Siphoning Gems. In the privacy of my rooms at school and when I have no public outings planned, I don’t bother keeping to a purely human form.”

“Good, you have sense.” Elder Asikis commented. “Truthfully, it may be best if you withdrew from your Wizarding schooling until you have gained more control over your abilities. The training Odysseus gave you was very basic compared to the training a Squall Harpy should receive. In light of the nature of your newest therapontes, it is imperative that you fully harness the power they will give you. At the rate you are developing, you truly need the additional training or you may never fully express the potential of your therapontes. Few Harpies are like yourself, whose power lies in their therapontes more so than themselves. Individual power will never be as dangerous as the full might of a well trained Harpy who has good rapport with their therapontes.”

Anastas frowned slightly, “How long would this extra training take me to master?”

“It varies greatly from Squall to Squall and considering how unique your therapontes are, it could take anywhere from several months to several years. Possibly even decades.” Odysseus answered.

Elder Asikis nodded, “In addition to that, I could not teach you here. You would have to return with me to Asikis Hall. It has been heavily warded over the years to contain Squalls as they learn to master their powers. It would be pure foolishness not to fully develop your power now before it settles completely.”

Anastas hummed thoughtfully. “You have a point and it is not as though I am in any danger of falling behind in my Wizarding studies. It is a matter worth further discussion and after the recent…disturbances there have been concerns about my returning to a less than secure educational facility. Can you tell me more about Asikis Hall?”

“Of course, that is understandable. The Hall is located in the Rhodope Mountains and the oldest portion of the Hall was first erected in the months after Archelaus the Vengeful won our freedom from the Warrior-Mages…”

Evaristo made a note to observe the rest of their conversation as he turned his gaze to the final argument taking place. This particular argument, or discussion as the ladies claimed, he would not have any part of, at least not at this particular time.

“The Najafian Family is worth a little over 5.3 billion galleons as I recall and make their galleons in both worlds. They are the sole suppliers of Re’em goods and they own a substantial number of oil fields in the Middle East. I would think an alliance with them would be the most profitable for both our Families.” Isabella suggested, calmly.

“Money is not everything though,” Tiziana pointed out. “The Li Family from China is the oldest Pureblooded family in Asia and make their fortune through the trade of luxury magical creature goods. A better match could not be found, truly.”

Ariande Sardelis, Silvio’s wife, shook her head. “Too much emphasis is placed on money and bloodlines; I truly believe that we should focus our attention on influence for this particular match! The Grecian Liatos are masters of the Arts and have made their fortune through that craft, the Cargenven of northern Wales are not only miners of magical ores and harvesters of unique crystals but considered to be the best Mage-Smiths in the Wizarding World, and the Irungu of Africa number in the thousands and are the foremost experts in magics involved in the fields of Herbology and Healing. A scion of any of those reputable Families would best serve Anastas as a spouse!”

“Ladies, we could spend the next decade arguing over semantics about who would be the best match for Anastas. At this time, I think we should save the arguments until after we receive the Anterior Courtship Ritual requests, then and only then can we weight the worthiness of each potential suitor. As we are all well aware, once news of Anastas’ Inheritance is released we can expect all sorts of outrageous ACR proposals. Let us save our energy for the viewing of the proposals and the selection process itself.” Araceli interjected before the conversation could get any more heated or out of hand.

A loud banging on the doors finally ended all the arguments taking place in the room. Estavan looked very irritated as he called for whoever was outside the doors to enter.

Alfonso, Alpolinar’s oldest son, stepped into the room. “I know that you said that you weren’t to be disturbed but Great-grandfather Illarion has just arrived.”

“What?!” Estavan exclaimed as he hurriedly got to his feet.

Evaristo sighed; it looked like the arguments had only just begun. Joy.

“Ah, I will excuse myself then.” Anastas commented darkly as he stalked out of the room without another word.

Apolinar groaned softly. “Damn it.”

Anastas wasted no time, the moment he stepped outside of the Palacio, he let his temper have rein. His clothes shredded as his wings burst from his back and without sparing a look at the gawking guards, he stormed to the Royal Training Hall. The building quickly emptied once the off duty Guardsmen noticed his foul temper. Summoning a sword off a weapon stand, Anastas cast an Animation Charm on the training dummy and began taking his frustrations out on it.

He let his instincts guide him as he danced that familiar lethal dance of metal and spell, his body moving with fluid grace. The sound of metal crashing against metal and spells sizzling in the air soothed a savage part of him that he kept buried deep within. It sickened him in a way. He never felt more alive than when he was skirting danger, with his heart racing and blood pounding in his veins. How he would love to place the blame on that insidious fiend who had granted him power but no— that savage bloodthirsty part of him had existed long before he had ever touched that godforsaken faux book.

Snarling with a mixture of anger and self-disgust, Anastas cast aside his sword and wand and threw himself physically at the moving training dummy. Throwing wild punches and kicks, Anastas chuckled at himself. God what a sick bastard he was! Pain was the one constant of his life, the single thing that he understood intrinsically and, oddly enough, the only thing that ever cleared his mind from all vicious thoughts that circled inside his head without end and without answers.

- I resent that, pain is not the only constant in your life! -

Anastas stumbled backward a few steps, hands instinctively reaching up to his bloodied nose. - Speak of the devil and he will appear…couldn’t you keep your damned thoughts to yourself until later? -

A spine tingle inducing laugh caressed his mind. - Why wait until later when you’re so deliciously vulnerable now? You yourself call me an insidious fiend so why shouldn’t I live up to that delightful designation? -

Dodging a swipe at his legs, Anastas countered with a low kick. - The ancients may have worshiped you as some creation made by a higher being, but you’ll never be anything more than a sanity destroying leech! I was nothing more than a desperate, guilt-stricken fool driven into a corner, unable to resist the temptation of power until it was too late. -

- You left out broken, suicidal and damaged goods. - The voice chided with dark humor. - Regardless of what you are and what you think I am there is one absolute truth and that is simple. You. Are. MINE. Freedom has done nothing but allow you to cripple yourself further and it begins to irk me and need I remind you what happens when I am irked? -

Anastas forced the dummy back by the strength of his chest strike. - There were days when I thought Voldemort was the greatest danger to my sanity but now I know better. The two of you are greatly alike in that way. -

- There is some truth in that. - The voice stated slowly. - I am what he wished to be and he had what I wanted. -

- And I stood between you both, fighting a war on two fronts. -

- Such bitter thoughts, can it be you feel some regret? -

Pain blossomed in Anastas’ abdomen, the foot of the dummy having made a direct strike, one he hadn’t bothered to dodge. - The only thing I regret is going to Rasha’ule and finding you. -

- Without my aid you would be dead! -

- It matters little; I stopped living long before we ever met. -

Goosebumps crawled along his belly in response to the cool, barely there phantom caress. - How you charm me with your morbid thoughts and twisted fragility. I long for the days when I may possess you in full and those days come closer and closer the more you struggle against me. -

CRUNCH! Anastas bit his lip as he felt his left arm break. - Destroy me later; I tire of your cryptic prattling. -

- I will leave you alone for the time being but you’d best get your arm fixed. Delude yourself as you desire, fight me as you will and draw us ever closer… -

As he felt the other fade from his senses, Anastas felt a subtle shift in his mind and then he was lost, immersed in a memory he willingly kept buried.

FLASHBACK

November 2004

Elation pulsed through every fiber of this being. The task was done! Voldemort was dead and now, now he would finally be free to find whatever solace he would be allowed!

With sure steps, he navigated the broken and ash covered plain that had served as the site of the final duel between the two enemies. Everything around him was a wasteland but he paid it no mind. Nature would heal this ravaged, blood soaked plain and the lingering imprint of destructive magic that tainted the very air would fade with time.

Once he had gotten a fair distance away from the worst of the devastation, Harry reached into his robes and drew the dagger that Peter Pettigrew had used during the ritual to restore Voldemort to a corporeal form. Weighing the dagger, he idly pondered what to do. The human body had so many vulnerable spots after all and how he died matter little so long as he did. It would be quickest perhaps if he slit his throat but did he deserve a quick death after all that he had done? He remembered watching a Japanese movie long ago and quickly decided that committing seppuku would be fitting. Having reached his decision, Harry closed his eyes and lowered the dagger, turning the point inward. Just as the tip of the blade pierced his abdomen, his hand literally froze.

- What do you think you’re doing?!?! -

Harry’s eyes snapped open, startled. “What does it look like I’m doing? I’m fulfilling the rest of our bargain.”

- You owe me. -

“I already paid you in part, remember? You agreed that Voldemort’s life would suit and now that he’s dead, I owe you a body. I’ve killed enough so the only body I have to offer you is my own.”

- Apparently you didn’t listen carefully to what I said. I told you that all power has a price and that the power I gave you would require one life and one body. Voldemort was the life yes but the other… -

Harry frowned, “If not my body whose would you have?”

- Do you always jump to conclusions? I allowed you let Voldemort’s life serve that portion of our bargain because that was something that you needed to keep your sanity. You are right, it is your body that I want but it does not require your death. That is not what I want. -

“What? But you always talked of having a body for yourself!”

- …I want many things Harry but the thing I want foremost is simply, you. -

Harry blinked, “You can’t have me and have a body! You said yourself when I asked that there can’t be a consciousness in the body or you wouldn’t have possession of it. That would mean that my consciousness would have to be destroyed or released or something!”

The voice sighed with obvious frustration. - You are amazingly blind at times. While your body is very lovely, and I do look forward to claiming it, you do not understand. I have been enhancing your body, unlocking all sorts of hidden potential and when I finish making these adjustments, your consciousness will go into a stasis. That’s when I can safely transfer myself to a new host without killing you. -

“But that’s so much work!”

- Yes it is, but it’s the only way we can be together! -

“I can’t live with myself! The things I’ve done and the people I’ve killed…” Harry choked, bile rising in his throat.

- Surely after all we’ve been through you can trust me to help you through this? You’re so afraid to be alone and if you do this, you’ll never be alone again. I promise you that. -

Harry’s eyes dropped down to the dagger in his hand. “I’m so tired…”

Phantom arms wrapped around his body. - I know but it’s all over now. Let me take care of everything…just stay with me, that’s all I ask. -

“Make me forget it all! I don’t want to remember what’s happened, never ever.”

- I will erase what I can and the rest I will bury but all of this will take time. Be strong for a while longer and I will do my best for you as I always have and as I always will. Now I want you to throw that dagger away and go somewhere to get those wounds of yours looked at. -

END FLASHBACK

Numb with a mixture of horror and shock, he could only stare vacantly at the ceiling as the memories washed over him. As he lay on the floor of the Royal Training Hall with blood drying on his face and his arm pulsing with pain, Anastas could feel tears pooling in his eyes.

The fiend was right about one thing, he did delude himself and he would continue to do so because he couldn’t handle the truth. Every time he remembered the truth in all it’s stark reality, his mind would come one step closer to shattering completely. So they had done the only thing available to insure that both of them would survive. All those years spent in Azkaban the two of them had fabricated the life he viewed as truth, piece by delicate piece, and rooted the ‘memories’ so deeply that they had completely re-shaped his mind and gave it a semblance of stability.

Anastas chuckled brokenly. He was a Slytherin to the core without a doubt! Anyone who tried to read his mind would find nothing but the identity and memories they had created. There was not a hint of manipulation anywhere in his surface thoughts that would lead anyone to think that what they saw was not in fact, truth. Only someone very determined and strong in Legimency would uncover the truth. His mind was as fragile as a spider’s web and at the heart of that web, which lay deeper than even the subconscious, wrapped in a cocoon was a mangled corpse that represented truth.

It took a combination of physical pain, a large dose of masochism, and the fiend to drag that corpse into the light.

- You should thank me again, and remind me why I put up with this twisted charade. - A faintly amused voice commented.

“It amuses you…sometimes.”

- Only sometimes yes, most of the time it’s terribly depressing. –

“I don’t suppose you’d like to tell me what grand scheme you’ve plotted that ends with the two of us not so tangled up in each other? Preferably without shattering my sanity again?”

- I have some ideas but it’s too soon to say for certain which idea will work out best. What you’re doing will suit my plans so I think it’s time for you to forget everything again. –

Anastas grumbled, “When will it be safe for me to remember all of this?”

- You know that you won’t ever be able to remember everything. I couldn’t erase the worst of the memories because they’re tied to the power that you accepted from me. The only things you will remember clearly and without too much editing is what happened after the final battle and what we did to you in Azkaban. -

“I know all of that. You remind me on the rare occasions you let me remember.”

- Then you should stop asking. I’ll let you remember when the time is right and not a minute sooner. We’ve wasted enough time, take better care of yourself. -

“Have I told you that you have a terrible sense of humor? Seriously, activating my dormant Harpy blood?”

Mirthful laughter washed over his senses. - It was too hard to resist but at least it’s useful, right? -

“Stressful I would say,” Anastas began but was cut off by a splitting pain stabbing through his mind and then there was only darkness. (1)

“Hmm, he’s more temperamental than I had expected.” Elder Asikis commented dryly as he was escorted out of the Palacio.

Evaristo rubbed the back of his neck, trying to ease the tense muscles. “My Grandfather does not approve of my decision to Adopt an Heir and has made his displeasure known. Upon my mother’s death, I inherited her dowered properties and Grandfather Illarion has been incensed at the idea that those estates shall go to my son and heir.”

“Magical Adoption has existed since the beginning of our civilization, why he so strongly disapproves of the practice, I do not know.” Silvio replied sharply. “In fact, some of the greatest Wizards and Witches in our history were Adopted, Merlin was and no one looks down upon him.”

“He needs to begin his training as soon as possible, the longer he goes without the proper training, the more danger he poses to others. Odysseus briefed me about the recent…turmoil in your household but if you truly want to avoid another incident, Anastas must be trained.” Asikis urged Evaristo.

Evaristo sighed as they reached the gates. “His training has become the most important concern at the moment. All the other matters can be dealt with, in time. There is at least one obligation that must be dispatched before he can begin his training though.”

Silvio sighed, “I can’t believe you still want to go through with that blasted Gala!”

“There is no choice but if it is of any comfort to you, nothing ill will take place. Focus your attention on the security arrangements; I will have my hands full with the would-be suitors.” Evaristo said wryly. “Elder Asikis, you may come for Anastas on the afternoon of the First.”

“Very well, though if you wish for him to attend this Gala, I would be happy to provide a few of my own guards to prevent any other…incidents from occuring.”

“They would be most welcome, thank you.”

“It is no matter, I shall select them this evening and meet with you again tomorrow afternoon to discuss the security arrangements.”

“That would be most helpful,” Silvio agreed cautiously.

Elder Asikis chuckled, “There is no need to be wary of me. I have nothing but the best intentions. It would do none of us well should the young tiercel lose control of himself and start another rampage. I am offering my aid simply to prevent any possible repercussions between our peoples.”

“No matter your reasons, the offer is most appreciated.”

“I will speak with you both tomorrow then, good afternoon gentlemen.”

The Shining Garden
Rose Arbor Palace, Paraíso Island, Azores
Monday the 30th of December 1974
8:55 PM

Calixto wanted nothing more than to be anywhere else but here, trapped in yet another gathering of courtiers engaging in sly word games and false fawning. The gardens looked as though they were inhabited by overgrown butterflies, what with the courtiers dressed in vibrant colors, drifting lazily from one group of guests to the next. Fortunately, as it was winter, only his father’s favored nobles had been invited. Still, the night would prove to be tedious. How could it be anything else when there was only one topic available for conversation?

“Prince Calixto, I’ve been looking for you all evening!” A stern voice called out behind him.

Calixto suppressed the urge to groan. Damn it! He thought the hideous statue of Lygia the Bashful would provide sufficient cover from the courtiers, especially his father’s chief advisor Lord Milazar. Said advisor was as taciturn as a marble statue, more observant than a bloody watchdog and loathed disorder and misbehavior!

Turning, he smiled politely at the stoic man. “Lord Milazar, I apologize for the trouble I have caused you.”

“Truthfully, I should be relieved that you even bothered to join us this evening. I wanted to have a word with you about tomorrow night.”

“You are referring to the Torres gathering?”

Lord Milazar flayed him with a dark look, “Of course that is what I am referring to!”

Calixto nodded slowly, inwardly wincing. He’d forgotten how the older wizard disliked having the obvious pointed out. “You were saying?”

“Your father, His Royal Highness, has asked me to remind you that your attendance at the Torres gathering tomorrow night is mandatory.”

“I remember.”

“Good. He will be expecting you in his study tomorrow evening at a quarter to five o’clock to brief you further about what will be expected of you.”

Calixto nodded again and Lord Milazar excused himself, no doubt leaving to report to the King that he’d spoken to the wayward Prince. Scowling, Calixto headed back to the central gardens. Obviously, there was no point hiding. It wasn’t long before he spotted his younger brother Thierry.

“Why are you scowling?”

“Lord Milazar, need I say more?”

Thierry sighed, “You know, father wouldn’t send Lord Milazar to talk to you so much if you would just do your duty.”

Calixto glanced around warily and then, seeing that there was no one near enough to eavesdrop, spoke his mind. “How is seducing a thirteen year old boy, considered ‘doing my duty’?!”

“Prince Anastas is constantly surrounded by guards and chaperones, how could anyone possibly seduce the boy! Even if you managed to sign a marriage contract with him, you wouldn’t be allowed to so much as kiss him on the lips until the wedding! Calixto, you’re utterly hopeless! A ten year age difference is hardly something to balk at in our circles, need I remind you?” Thierry commented, exasperated. “Even if you aren’t interested in marrying him, it can’t hurt to at least get to know him a little. He’s attractive, if you’re into fair coloring, and even if he is only thirteen he’s intelligent enough to make you forget that fact.”

“I don’t like it,” Calixto replied, grouchily.

Thierry frowned, “Well you’re going to have to get used to it Calixto! Father has desired stronger ties to the Asturian Royalty ever since Prince Estavan gained renown as a Diplomat. He’s all but shoved Maël into Prince Alfonso’s arms at every gathering since Prince Alfonso reached marriageable age four years ago. Realistically, a marriage to Prince Alfonso would be more politically sound but marriage to Prince Anastas has its own unique benefits and father would rather have those benefits than direct ties to a future ruling monarch.”

“It’s ridiculous!”

“No, it’s common sense.” A new voice interjected, causing the two brothers to turn around in surprise.

“Damn it Casimiro, do you always have to sneak around like a thief?” Calixto complained, returning his wand back to the sheath he wore on his arm.

Casimiro shook his head, his honey gold eyes amused. “It is not my fault if you are too absorbed in your…indignation to notice my arrival. Be happy that it was me and not Lord Milazar or worse, father who overheard your discussion.”

“Do you think you can talk some sense into him? I’m supposed to speak to Lord Taffarel about the repairs to the East Wing.” Thierry said before abruptly leaving the two older wizards alone.

Neither spoke for a few minutes, Casimiro gazing at his younger half-brother while Calixto shifted restlessly in place.

“You’re taking this too personally, Calixto. The Torres Family won’t let just anyone pay court on Prince Anastas and you can be damned sure that they’ll thoroughly investigate each and every potential suitor. Father allows you more freedom than the rest of us but it is time that you fulfill your obligations to the family. Even if you are paying him Court, there is no guarantee that you will be among the select few who will have their ACR proposal accepted.”

Calixto visibly deflated. “You’re right of course, both of you are. I just can’t help but…compare the situations.”

“The situations are vastly different. For one thing, if someone did manage to isolate Prince Anastas and attempt to…force the issue, he would very likely rip them to shreds and no one would so much as bat an eye.” Casimiro replied, amused. “It’s a shame you didn’t attend last week’s gathering, he gave quite the…show of force.”

“Thierry told me as much.”

Casimiro chuckled. “I felt bad for him actually, everyone was even more eager to dance attendance on him after that messy affair. Truthfully Calixto, I have doubts that the Torres’ would find Thierry, Maël, Denzel, Aimery or you a suitable spouse for Prince Anastas. Our blood is not as pure as theirs but more importantly, there are other would-be suitors who have both purer blood and better connections than we do. I do not know what sort of match they would hope to make but I doubt that they would be satisfied with a simple marriage between two small nations when they can make a greater alliance.”

Calixto frowned, “Think what you will but I cannot help but think that there is some deeper game afoot. I don’t like this situation at all.”

“Of course there is, we are all members of the haute monde are we not? Ulterior motives are simply expected. As the Torres Family is Royalty, one can also add politics and subterfuge to the list. Every soiree and gathering is a dangerous game Calixto, the only thing that changes are the players and the prize.”

The Formal Drawing Room
Torres Villa, Luarca, Spain
Tuesday the 31st of December 1974
5:00 PM

“You will make quite the…impression tonight.” Evaristo commented at last, discomfort obvious.

Anastas shrugged, sensing his adopted father’s discomfort. “Truthfully, it’s far more comfortable and practical, to wear these Harpy garments.”

Evaristo merely shook his head. The strange scarf-like wrapping the Harpies favored showed too much skin in his opinion. He supposed it was simply a modified Palla. They were worn wrapped behind the neck, crossed over the torso to cover the nipples (or breasts, if one was a woman) and were either tied or pinned behind the back. Evaristo hadn’t met very many Harpies, so he couldn’t be sure what materials or patterns they usually wore but Anastas had ordered dozens of those body scarves made in many materials and sporting various designs and adornments. Tonight he had chosen a rich black velvet scarf decorated with strands of siphoning gems, which swung and caressed his skin. Anastas no doubt selected it to act as a contrast against his fair coloring and his dark red wings.

“You’re certain you want to attend the Gala like that?” Evaristo asked, hesitant.

“It’s slightly easier to control my temper with my wings extended like this. Plus it serves several purposes, it reminds the guests what I am, which should significantly cut down on the fawning, and it reminds them that I have power that should not be trifled with. They covet me for whatever reason they choose but it’s important that they know that I am the one in control. Despite my age or my appearance, I am strong and not someone to be manipulated or controlled.”

Evaristo frowned, “You are a Prince…it would be foolish of them to condescend to you.”

“Never underestimate the stupidity or superiority complex of other humans, Father. Even amongst the lofty members of the haute monde there are fools. In these circles, bloodlines may mean a great deal but deep down everyone desires power. We all play power games but only a select few will ever play the games that change the Wizarding World. There is very little that I am unwilling to commit to in order to see my goals fulfilled but it will take time and subtlety. I will not rush needlessly and that will make all the difference in the end.” Anastas explained with surety.

Sensing his son’s conviction, Evaristo only nodded before glancing at a nearby clock. “It is almost time for the rest of the family to arrive. I can only wonder what they will make of you.”

Anastas smiled at his father, “They will each see what they wish to see.”

Turning his attention back to the window he had been gazing out of, Anastas returned to his introspection. Since his strange blackout on Friday he had not been feeling like himself. Smiling faintly, he recalled the panic that had ensued when he had been discovered by his Cousin Cyril. They had almost canceled the Gala then and there, fearing that he had been attacked by some unseen assailant, but Anastas waved off their concern, admitting that he had gotten distracted in the middle of a spar with one of the training dummies. After being duly chastised, he hadn’t been able to so much as step outside of his rooms without several bodyguards trailing him around.

Anastas had not yet been to any other estates his father owned, as the Torres Villa was his main residence, but he could only wonder how much more grand the others were. The Palacio was a regal fortress made of shining ivory marble and was laden with some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Europe. It was a home befitting royalty and it towered over Oviedo like a silent, watchful guardian. In comparison, the Torres Villa was one of the smaller estates, only having four above ground floors and forty guest bedrooms. Of course, it could accommodate several hundred guests easily as it had been built with clever re-sizing charms which expanded all rooms as needed. It had two hundred House-elves bound to it, all of whom cooked, cleaned and maintained the Villa, the extraneous buildings on the grounds, and the massive gardens on the property.

The double doors swung open, admitting the rest of the Royal family who came to an abrupt halt at the sight of Anastas.

Tiziana looked as though she was about to faint, “What are you thinking?!”

“This is the fastest way to weed all the unsuitable would-be suitors. In addition to that, it also lessens the likelihood of my causing another incident and it is a display of power which should give me the advantage. Only the very cream of the haute monde and close friends of the family were invited to tonight’s Gala but we all know what madness will erupt once news of my full inheritance is announced. I am simply taking my own precautions to best find a suitable future spouse. As most of you can guess, I hardly need to marry for money or influence.”

No one could argue that point, though Anastas noted that a few of his relatives certainly looked as though they wanted to. Evaristo simply gestured for everyone to enter; all did so though some strode through with obvious reluctance. The next fifteen minutes were spent exchanging pleasantries while everyone seated themselves and refreshments were passed around.

Silvio waited for a lull in the conversation before gently interrupting. “Let us discuss the security arrangements tonight. After the incident that took place at the Palacio, I personally oversaw the reinforcement of the wards here at Torres Villa. I have stationed an additional two hundred guards within the Villa itself and there will be six teams of Griffin Handlers patrolling outside the Villa. All the guests will arrive via time delayed Portkey and depart similarly. The Floo Network has been completely blocked off for the evening and a temporary Anti-Apparition Ward has been erected over the entire estate. The walls surrounding the estate are in defensive lockdown, no one may pass through the gates and I pity any fool who tries to fly over them. To be utterly blunt, nothing less than an army will get through the defenses and with all the Ward Towers in Asturias active, no army could so much as tiptoe across our borders without setting off the signal. We are perfectly safe tonight.”

“Excellent and very well executed considering you only had a few days to make all the additional arrangements,” Estavan praised, grinning.

“It was nothing,” Silvio dismissed. “I did not make all the arrangements alone after all, Cyril handled most of it.”

“I will be certain to give him my compliments when I return to the Palacio. The plans for this evening are similar to most New Year’s Eve Galas we have thrown over the years. Save for one thing, at a quarter to midnight, I will make the announcements regarding Anastas’ inheritance. Until I make the announcement, no one is to say a word about the properties, monies or conditions of a suitable marriage contract. As we are all family and trustworthy, I will tell you some of the information now.”

Silvio quickly checked the room and then erected a strong Privacy Barrier.

“Anastas will inherit a total of eight estates, of them five are Lund estates, two are Torres estates and one is a Focalor estate formerly held by his great-grandfather Columbe. There are four estates in Sweden, one in the United States, one in Spain, one in France and one in Russia. Anastas has a total of seven accounts with Gringotts, three are Lund accounts, three are Torres accounts and one is a Focalor account. There are four vaults located with Gringotts, three of which are Lund vaults. Anastas has two Investment accounts with the Dahl Group and one with the Mercer Company. The Mercer Company is also charged with four separate Diversified Stock accounts. Anastas also owns two Adamantine Mines, a dragon preserve, a botanicals garden, a chain of luxury wizarding hotels and a very profitable Muggle conglomerate based in Sweden. Have I missed anything?” Estavan asked, looking at Anastas. (2)

The Harpy shook his head. “No, that’s everything as of this year anyway. I haven’t yet decided what investments I will make next year but I will be sure to let you know when I finalize them.”

“Of course,” Estavan agreed before returning to the subject at hand. “As most of his funds are constantly changing, I will only declare to the guests his total net worth with Gringotts and the number of estates he stands to inherit. I don’t want to be accused of giving the guests tonight too much of an advantage. That rough estimate would be about 1.52 billion galleons by the way.”

Mercedes Torres, Estavan’s younger sister, sputtered. “1.52 billion galleons?!”

“That’s enough money to buy out a country!” Miles Scrivenor exclaimed, helpfully offering his handkerchief to his fiancée Elvira, who dabbed at the wine dripping down her chin.

Apolinar smiled slightly, “The sharks will be doing more than circling soon. With a fortune that sizeable, including the benefits of being a Prince of Asturias and a Lord of the Realm, the suitors will be salivating.”

Eloisa’s fiancé Baldassare snorted, “As the sole heir to the Lund fortune Anastas has one of the largest independent fortunes in the Wizarding World, a fact that all are aware of. The addition of estates and monies from both the Torres and Folcalor Families has only made a future match more…enticing. You are right to expect a furor; I can honestly say that there has not been such a marriageable prospect in centuries, easily.”

“Enjoy the night while you may,” Estavan commented with amusement. “Once I make the announcement, I have my doubts that any of us will have much rest. We will stand together as we always have and we will weather this particular storm as we have others.”

“Indeed,” Evaristo agreed.

Alfonso laughed. “Well, now I suppose I don’t have to be too worried about being mobbed by suitors!”

“Don’t think that, everyone with a connection to the Family will likely be just as plagued as Anastas will be. You forget that the suitors will be attempting to win over any allies that they can from the Family.” Isabella warned her oldest son.

Anastas glanced around the room, wearily. “Tonight will be a trial but I fear the forthcoming months and possibly years will be the most tedious of my life! Let us pray that I find someone suitable soon or we all may go mad.”

Silvio chuckled, “Well said!”

The Drawing Room
Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, UK
Tuesday the 31st of December 1974
5:29 PM

Severus glared at his friend, who was smoothing his robes for the hundredth time in the last hour. “Must you continue to act like an imbecile? Your robes are immaculate, your hair is perfect, and you are the very image of a respectable wizard!”

Lucius had to force his hands down to his sides. “I apologize if I am nervous but tonight is a very important night!”

“Yes, yes we all know.” Regulus Black intoned, rolling his eyes. “Tonight is the night that the Torres Family will announce the exact details of Anastas’ inheritance and make any stipulations they deem necessary before all the Anterior Courtship Ritual proposals may be submitted the following day.”

Sirius sulked at the far end of the room, “I don’t know why everyone is making such a fuss. I mean everyone knows he’s filthy rich and he’s a Squall Harpy, but it’s not like half of them stand a chance anyway. He’s a Prince!”

“Even if three quarters of the Wizarding World is unsuitable, that won’t stop anyone from trying.” Regulus pointed out, irritated. “Father even stooped low enough to tell you that he’ll be submitting an ACR in your name even though I’m eligible and the better choice.”

“Like I’d want to marry that git!” Sirius exclaimed, shuddering.

Severus snorted, “No, you’ve only eyes for James Potter.”

Sirius flushed, gray eyes narrowed. “We’re friends and nothing more! Though I’m sure the two of you have a vested interest in tonight’s announcement.”

Lucius glared, “Keep your damn mouth shut, Black!”

“You’re a fool if you think you stand a chance Lucius! You may be one of his closest friends but your blood isn’t blue enough to even grace the circles he walks in on a daily basis!”

Severus quickly interceded. “Be quiet the both of you or you’ll bring the combined wrath of our parents down on our heads! We’re all of us going to be submitted whether we want to be or not.”

“I could not have said it better myself,” Abraxas Malfoy commented as he strode into the room with the other adults behind him, silver eyes annoyed. “All of you are of marriageable age now and should stop acting like children. Tonight you will be in the presence of some of the greatest pureblood Families in the Wizarding World and each of you will be representing your own prestigious bloodlines. Act like you are now and you’ll become a laughingstock.”

Orion Black glared at his oldest son. “I don’t care if you despise the Lund-Torres heir, Sirius. You will not jeopardize the friendship I have cultivated with his father with your uncouth behavior and your foolish schoolboy antics. The Torres Family are of Royal blood and if you make an enemy of them, that is your business but do not drag the rest of the family down with you! For tonight I would ask that you leave your foolish Gryffindor recklessness behind you, lest you dig yourself deeper into some pit you won’t be able to find your way out of!”

Sirius shot his father an irritated look but did not speak.

Severus relaxed slightly in response, the last thing they needed tonight was for Black to mortally offend the rest of the Torres Family.

“Tonight’s Gala is a singular opportunity for all of you,” Eileen reminded them. “We will be in mixed company with close associates of the Torres Family and some of the greatest pureblooded families. Alliances can be sealed with more than matrimony, I assure you. Similar interests have led to many a business or political partnership, so I would advise you all to mingle amongst the other guests of your age and converse at length.”

Abraxas focused in on his son, “Lucius what are the titles of each member of the Royal Asturian Family and where their main residences are?”

“His Serene Highness, the Sovereign Prince of Asturias, Prince Estavan’s main residence is the Palacio d’Asturies located in Oviedo. His Serene Highness, the Hereditary Prince of Asturias, Prince Apolinar is also the Duke of Xixión and his main residence is Torres Hall in Xixión. His Serene Highness, Prince Pascual is the Duke of Mieres and his former principle residence was Torres Manse in Turon. His Serene Highness, Prince Evaristo is the Duke of Valdés and his main residence is Torres Villa, located in Luarca. Her Serene Highness, Princess Eloisa is the Duchess of Aller and her main residence is Torres Manor in Caborana. Her Serene Highness, Princess Elvira is the Duchess of Laviana and her main residence is Torres Tower in Villoria. His Serene Highness Prince Alfonso is the Lord of Cangues d’Onis and his residence is the Antiguo Palacio which is located in Cangues d’Onis. His Serene Highness Prince Guiomar has not yet received a title, nor has His Serene Highness, Prince Anastas. Both will likely be titled on their eighteenth birthday as Asturian tradition dictates. Warlord-Prince Silvio is the Duke of Biscay and his main residence is Alcazar Torres which is located somewhere in the Cantabrian Mountains.” (3)

“Correct. Severus please summarize Shui Luo-shan’s recent address to the Potion Master’s Guild.” Eileen prompted.

“Master Shui has spent the last forty years studying the use of powdered Dragon eggshell in various potions and by various dragon species. He proposes that the shell of a Ukrainian Ironbelly is best used as a base for volatile potions, while the shell of an Antipodean Opaleye acts as a stabilizer in medical potions. Hungarian Horntail shells are best used to enhance the potency of potions while Peruvian Vipertooth shells cannot be used as anything other than a thickening reagent. The addition of Chinese Fireball shells generally acts as a catalyst and they are the hardest eggshells to retrieve. Shells from the Hebridean Black and the Welsh Greens are commonly used in potions with Transfigurating effects, while the Swedish Short-snout and the Norwegian Ridgeback shells are best used in cosmetic potions.”

Orion nodded, “Very good. Sirius, tell me which four Quidditch teams are in the semi-finals for the Quidditch World Cup and where the games will be played.”

“The final four teams are Portugal, New Zealand, Canada and Peru. The first semi-final is between Canada and Portugal, no decision has been reached about where it’ll be played. The second game between New Zealand and Peru is going to be played in Peru.”

“Yes, though the first semi-finals will be played in Canada, according to an associate of mine. Regulus I want you to recite the current line of succession to the Asturian throne up to the twelfth in line. ”

“Prince Apolinar currently is the Hereditary Heir to the throne. After him are his eldest son Prince Alfonso, and then his second son, Prince Guiomar. Prince Pascual is no longer in line to the throne due to his marriage to Olivier Sauvageon, who is currently fourth in line to the French Throne. Likewise, their son Simon is also ineligible. Prince Evaristo is fifth in line to the throne. Since the Torres Family is Patrilineal and favors True-born heirs, Prince Estavan’s twin daughters and their eventual children are also ineligible to inherit the throne. So the sixth in line is Warlord-Prince Silvio, followed by his only son Cyril, who is Warlord presumptive at this moment. Eighth in line to the throne is Cyril’s oldest son Fausto who would be succeeded by his brother Agustin and then Cleto. As there are no more direct True-born male heirs to the throne only then would Prince Anastas become eligible to inherit as he would be the only remaining Torres male of the primary line. Should the entire primary line become defunct, the throne would then revert to the secondary line, that of Prince Renato who is younger brother to the previous Sovereign Prince of Asturias, Prince Cleto. The twelfth in line to the throne would be Prince Vasco.” (4)

Abraxas smiled widely. “Very good! Lucius, tell me where the European Wizengamot will meet two weeks from tomorrow and why.”

“They will meet in Amsterdam to discuss the Werder Trade Act and the current policy with Gringotts Bank International.”

Sirius resisted the urge to sigh, wonderful now they would spend the rest of the night until it was time to take the Portkey to the Gala, reciting useless information in preparation for wasting the night in pointless conversation with a bunch of stuck up purebloods. How he hated his family at times…

Torres Villa, Luarca, Spain
Tuesday the 31st of December 1974
5:50 PM

Anastas steeled himself as he took a position next to his father. The guests were due to begin arriving in less than five minutes and the guards were being extremely vigilant. Unlike the previous Ball, there would be four receiving lines. His Grandparents and his father and he, would each form two receiving lines and would greet the most prestigious of their guests. His Uncle Apolinar and Aunt Isabella, along with his Great-grandmother Araceli would greet the close friends of the Family that had been invited.

The Portkey arrivals had been staggered to five minute intervals, all of the guests arriving at one of three separate destinations. Dozens of guards would keep the lines orderly and move things along as swiftly as possible. Introductions would be brief and to the point, introductions would be made, the invitation would be exchanged for identifying party favors and the guests would enter the ballroom. If all went well, it shouldn’t take longer than an hour for all the guests to be granted entrance into the ballroom. The Gala itself would continue until two a.m. and likely the ACR proposals would begin arriving sometime around dawn. Earlier if not for the stipulations that would need to be filled before they would accept the proposals but that was another thing entirely.

Captain Renaldo, the Captain of his father’s personal Guard, quickly saluted his father. “All is well and the guests are due to arrive in less than two minutes, your Serene Highness.”

“Very good Captain Renaldo, I will await your next report in half an hour’s time then.” Evaristo commented before quickly turning his attention to the Harpy Captain also waiting to report.

Zayle Asikis, one of Elder Asikis’ many sons, smiled. “My men detect no activity that is not expected.”

“Thank you, Master Asikis. Again, I am in your father’s debt for offering such support on such short notice.”

“It is nothing, as he has said; this is merely the best way to prevent any unpleasantness for both our respective peoples. I am happy enough to be here.” Zayle answered smiling at Anastas.

Anastas stiffened slightly knowing the older Squall was not antagonizing him, quite the opposite actually, considering the rather…lingering looks he graced Anastas with. Zayle stepped back two paces, having noted the effect he had on the younger Squall and calmly turned his attention back to the duty he had been given, personally overseeing the younger Squall.

Even if his father hadn’t ordered him, Zayle likely would have been happy to do it simply to observe the new Squall Harpy. There had been a great deal of speculation about the wizard born Squall but Zayle was happy to see that all those rumors about the young tiercel being powerful were true. He was much too young yet but in seven or eight years, the new Squall would make a very attractive potential mate. That was, if he was still unattached and Zayle knew very well that the odds were quite good that the tiercel would be. The Wizards may mate young but Harpies generally did not take mates until well into their thirties. Courtship and dalliances might begin early but life-long mating would not occur for a decade or more.

A bell chimed, announcing the arrival of the guests. Evaristo smiled encouragingly at his son before turning his attention to the first of their guests. Anastas took a deep breath, let the games begin!

Estavan smiled brightly, “Old friend, I see that Niall was finally able to convince you to drag yourself out of the smithy!”

Aodh Cargenven mock glared at the Asturian Prince from his lofty height. “I’ve always been an honest, hardworking man Estavan. I’m not fit for these ridiculous parties, well as you know. My tongue is as sharp as the weapons I forge and has cut many an arrogant dandy’s ego to ribbons.”

“Or charmed a handsome devil with your honesty,” Niall teased his gruff husband as he passed their invitation to Tiziana who chuckled at their antics.

Aodh grinned wickedly, his dark green eyes gleaming. “It wasn’t my tongue that charmed you!”

Tiziana laughed outright as she held out a tray with two cups, holding what looked like white mints. Sharing a look, the two each took a cup and swallowed the mints. Almost instantly, a white osprey appeared on the back of their dominant hands, signifying that they had been invited.

“Enjoy the evening, my friends!”

“Evening Apolinar,” Tancred greeted as he passed his invitation to Isabella.

Apolinar grinned. “I’m surprised to see you here; I’d have thought that you would have hurried off on another adventure after dispatching your duty!”

“My appearance at one gathering would hardly please my Uncle and well you know it! I figure, if I am to be tortured into attending these gatherings, I might as well attend one where I can at least have a decent conversation! Unlike some gatherings, those held by your family generally have guests both of breeding and good sense!” Tancred joked.

Isabella smiled as she held out a tray. “I’m sure that you will find someone worth speaking to tonight.”

“Oh I’m sure I will,” Tancred agreed as he accepted the cup.

“Good evening, Mr. Ryuzaki is it?” Araceli greeted.

Kisuke bowed, “Quite correct, Serene Highness. I am Ryuzaki Kisuke.”

“You’re alone?” Araceli commented as she accepted his invitation.

“My family had other obligations tonight,” Kisuke answered with a smile. “I was happy to come though and I have little doubts that it shall be a wonderful evening.”

Netuno smiled as he shook hands with Evaristo. “It’s a pleasure to see you again, Prince Evaristo.”

“The pleasure is all mine, I assure you King Netuno. Your Majesty, I should like to introduce you to my son Anastas.”

Anastas bowed slightly. “Good evening Your Majesty and be welcome in Torres Villa.”

“I am most welcome I assure you, Prince Anastas! Let me introduce my family quickly. At my side is my wonderful Consort, Prince Alphonse. Then we have my oldest son Prince Casimiro and his sons, Prince Maël and Prince Denzel. My son Ferrão could not be with us tonight but his son Aimery, the Visconde Flores was more than happy to attend in his place. Finally we have my two sons Prince Calixto and Prince Thierry.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you all,” Anastas greeted smoothly as he quickly shook hands with all the men in this particular entourage. “I look forward to furthering our acquaintances later this evening. Please enjoy yourselves.”

“Good evening, Albus! Where is your charming wife?” Estavan greeted.

Dumbledore smiled slightly, “My youngest granddaughter has had some complications with her pregnancy and Sharon felt it necessary to remain close to home in case there were any difficulties. At her request, I am escorting my great-grandchildren Roderick and Emily.”

Tiziana smiled at the two teenagers. “I am sorry to hear that but I am pleased to meet you both! I hope you all have a wonderful time this evening.”

“Actually, I was hoping to introduce them to Anastas? They both attend schools oversea.”

“You are asking the impossible this night, Albus! My poor grandson is in much demand but I will see what I can do, you are his Headmaster after all.”

“Thank you; I shan’t breathe a word of you aiding me in this endeavor.” Dumbledore commented, eyes twinkling with amusement.

“Mr. Li, good evening!” Evaristo greeted cheerfully as he accepted the invitation. “That unicorn horn divining rod I bought from you is the best I’ve come across so far.”

“I will be sure to let my son Naosuke know that his selection for you has been so well received.” Li Jie commented pleased.

Evaristo grinned, “Do! Now gentlemen, I will introduce you both to my son. Anastas, this is Li Jie and his youngest son, Li Cheng. Their family specializes in luxury magical creature goods and I am a particular patron of theirs.”

Anastas bowed, “I am honored to make your acquaintance, Mr Li. Cheng has told me so much about your family already.”

The older wizard smiled approvingly. “I have heard much of you from my son as well. I hope that later we may speak again at depth.”

“I would like that,” Anastas agreed, mind racing with possibilities.

Cheng smiled slightly, “Would you honor me with a dance later?”

Anastas paused in the middle of accepting a tray from one of the guards. Quickly evaluating the guest list, Anastas decided that he could be generous without slighting any of the other potential allies gathered tonight. “If you desire it, you may have the second dance.”

Jie’s eyes widened slightly at that unexpected honor, his son must have made quite the impression to be offered the first dance with a non-family member! He was very pleased to see his son graciously accept, dark eyes glowing with pleasure.

The Gala had finally begun now that all the guests had arrived and had been granted entrance into the ballroom. Once again, Anastas was surrounded by guests’ eager for introductions or to exchange conversation and somehow win his favor. Unlike the Ball, the crowd around Anastas consisted mainly of suitors and not watchful parents. The presence of the guards, both human and Harpy, kept even the most eager on their best behavior.

“Handsome boy,” Aodh commented as he plucked a wineglass from a floating tray. “If he’s as clever as everyone says perhaps he’d suit one of my grandsons.”

Estavan quirked an eyebrow, “Grandsons and not granddaughters?”

Aodh snorted, rolling his eyes. “I don’t need to look at him to know the lad’s queer. I’m just wondering why he hasn’t mentioned his preferences yet, that’d easily get rid of a third of his would-be suitors.”

“You think he’s…” Niall trailed off slowly as he observed Anastas more carefully. Appearance and behavior alone was not an indicator of sexual preference, especially among the wealthy, privileged members of the haute monde . Mannerisms and social graces were molded young in Pureblooded Families, so that too could not be counted upon. Ah, but the way the boy observed and interacted with his guests? Hmm, that was rather telling.

Estavan hid his amusement behind his wineglass. “Let’s just keep that little fact to ourselves for the moment and let the suitors come to their own conclusions.”

“…unknown amount of time, though I have my doubts that it will set him back.” Evaristo informed Dumbledore.

The older wizard nodded agreeably. “Elder Asikis is quite correct in this matter; Anastas should focus on gaining more control over his Harpy Magics rather than worrying about fine tuning his control of Wizardry. When I return to Hogwarts I will ask the teachers to provide their lesson plans for the next month. That way, he may study at his leisure only what he needs.”

“That would be much appreciated, you have my thanks Headmaster. If you will excuse me, I had best return to collect Anastas. It is almost time for the dancing to begun.”

Dumbledore chuckled, “I imagine he will not be lacking for partners.”

Evaristo shook his head, smiling. “No, I highly doubt that.”

Anastas stifled the urge to groan as he was paired with his cousin Simon for the first dance. Dancing was the least pleasant aspect of this charade but fortunately, there were fewer guests at this Gala than there had at the Ball. As the orchestra began to play, he let his older cousin lead as they began to waltz.

“How are you holding up tonight?” Simon questioned with a sympathetic smile.

“Well enough,” Anastas answered as he paid close attention to maneuvering his wings as they danced. “Ask me again after two hours of dancing and I think you’ll get a different answer.”

Simon laughed. “And I’m sure it will be very different if I ask after grandfather’s announcement tonight, right?”

“Undoubtedly,”

“At least you’ll have your pick and no one’s going to rush you into things,” Simon pointed out, trying to focus on the positive parts of being so eligible.

“That’s true but the downside is that I’m everyone’s first choice, no matter if they’re suitable for me or not. It’ll be hard to get rid of some of them and as you pointed out, since no one’s going to rush me this will take years and with each new Courting Season there will be new proposals to decline. It’s a never ending cycle of madness,” Anastas muttered, irritably.

Simon smiled, “At least you have the entire family supporting you! Could you imagine trying to fend off all those suitors if you were still an orphan?”

Anastas shuddered, “Let’s not contemplate that, okay? How are your prospects this Season looking?”

“No where near as crazy as yours, thankfully. I’m all but engaged to one of Consort Khayri’s nieces. Odds are that our fathers’ will have the engagement announced by late Fall.”

“Well congratulations, I guess. Are you happy with it?”

Simon shrugged, “It could be worse, I suppose. For a while I thought I was going to end up with one of the Duc d’Anjou’s shrewish daughters. At least Jilila is pretty and only a few years younger than me.”

“How long of an engagement will you be having?”

“Probably the traditional two years so that she can finish her schooling and I can have my abbreviated tour of the Wizarding World before going on to the Fidelis Academy of Law.” (5)

Anastas grinned, “Who’re you going with?”

“Alfonso, Fausto and Tyr, didn’t you know? Since everyone’s so worried about security they decided that the three of us should all go together, accompanied by Alfonso’s Deadly Dozen.” (6)

“Makes sense I suppose, there’s only about a year difference between you all. I wonder who I’ll be going with.”

Simon frowned in consideration. “Well, Agustin is a year older than you and Ryan’s a year younger and those two are the closest in age to you. Though since you have ‘special circumstances’ they might make you wait until you’re twenty and by then, Cleto and Rainer will be of age.”

Anastas grimaced. “The five of us together? They’d make us take half a Private Guard!”

“Well it’s only a guess. Honestly, I don’t know if they’d make you wait that long. I suppose it’ll depend on who you end up engaged to as well. That might make all the difference. My parents ended up going on their tour together.”

“That’s a good point,” Anastas agreed thoughtfully as the waltz came to an end and they stepped apart. “I wonder who my father and Uncle Apolinar went with, I ought to ask.”

Simon patted him on the shoulder, “Ask them later, right now there are a whole lot of other people who’d like some of your attention.”

“Of course,” Anastas murmured as he glanced around the onlookers, looking for Cheng. The Chinese wizard was not hard to find, dressed as he was in elaborate vermillion robes trimmed with gold silk. Simon escorted him to his next dance partner before melting into the crowd.

Cheng smiled widely as he held out his hand for Anastas to take. “You honor me with this dance.”

Anastas smiled slightly, “Such flattery…”

“It suits neither of us truly but it is a necessary game we play,” Cheng murmured as he led the younger wizard to an open place on the dance floor.

“Those in a position of power must always be prepared to play games,” Anastas agreed as they waited for a signal to see what dance they would be dancing.

The orchestra conductor waved his wand causing a red fox to burst from his wandtip.

“A foxtrot, how fortuitous!” Cheng said with obvious amusement as they took their positions.

“Tonight at least, I am spared of any dance that requires too much contact or less restraint.” Anastas commented stretching his wings slightly to emphasize his point as they took their stances. “I tried that spell that we spoke of; it was as effective as you said it would be.”

“I’m happy that you were so pleased with it. I checked the registry at our warehouse and we are scheduled to receive a shipment of Demiguise hair in three weeks. Shall I ask my esteemed brother to select the best for your use?”

“If you would be so kind, I would be very thankful.” Anastas agreed with a smile.

“Think nothing of it,” Cheng answered as they began dancing. “You would hardly be the first to request such a thing and grandfather sees no harm in conducting business at these affairs. The flaunting of wealth is not the sole purpose behind these gaudy gatherings, after all.”

“No, I would guess that is not all.” Anastas replied with amusement. “Dare I wonder what your father thinks of me?”

Cheng sighed, “He thinks much like any good businessman. A match between us would surely advance the family, diversify the bloodline and extend our already vast connections. Obviously he approves of the idea but it will be my grandfather who will need more convincing. He thinks that the fact that both of my brothers married outside of China has diversified the bloodline enough for one generation.”

“After this evening, he may not need much convincing,”

“What do you mean?”

“You’ll find out with everyone else,” Anastas answered smoothly before changing the subject. “I should like to see that style of sword fighting that we spoke of last. I have been trained largely in the common European styles but the Eastern styles have always intrigued me.”

Cheng smiled, “Perhaps we could arrange a demonstration? There is little harm in it and it has no traditional value as a bargaining chip for courtship so your family may not be so quick to dismiss it.”

“That is a good point; I should speak to my father about it later. Ah that reminds me! I thank you very much for that lovely gift you gave me for Christmas.”

“I’m pleased to hear you enjoyed it. You wouldn’t believe how long it took me to convince my brother Naosuke to part with those rare shark teeth…”

Lucius glared darkly at the Chinese wizard dancing with Anastas. The two of them looked far too comfortable in each other’s company for his liking. This was only the second time they had seen each other after all! Severus exchanged a look of exasperation with Regulus before casually strolling off to search for a decent conversationalist. The younger Black glanced around the crowded room and spotted his older brother dancing with one of Dumbledore’s great-grandchildren. Shaking his head, he too left the blond wizard to fume as he searched for someone to talk to or better yet dance with.

As the foxtrot came to a close, the Chinese wizard escorted Anastas back to his father who was in company with Dumbledore. They conversed for a few minutes and then Anastas spotted him and quickly excused himself.

“Hello Lucius, what are you doing here all by yourself? I would have thought that you’d be mingling.” Anastas greeted, ignoring the guards that had followed him.

Lucius smiled, “I was waiting for a chance to speak with you. I wanted to thank you for the crystal unicorn figurine you gave me for Christmas. It’s very beautiful.”

“I’m happy you liked it. I bought it from a shop in Sweden when I was in town for some business. I appreciated the watch you gave me; it’s a work of art.”

“Of course it is, it’s a Jaeger LeCoultre after all!”

Anastas rolled his eyes. “LeCoultre is a very fine brand, I never said it wasn’t. My Uncle Apolinar is very fond of them.”

“Do you have a preference?”

“I like Vacheron Constantin myself. Grandfather and Uncle Pascual are fond of Lizt-Brauner, my father and Granduncle prefer Bulgari and most of my cousins choose Rolex.”

“Ah, my family is particular to LeCoultre.”

“Understandable,” Anastas agreed. “Pureblooded Families have a tendency to keep to tradition especially when it comes to heirlooms. For instance no other jeweler but Vargas has served the family and we have a long-standing contract with the Cargenvens for arms and armament.”

Lucius was about to reply when he was interrupted by the arrival of several Azorean Princes.

“Good evening, Prince Anastas.” Prince Thierry greeted with a smile.

Anastas nodded politely, “Good evening again, Prince Thierry. Let me introduce you to my friend and schoolmate, Lucius Malfoy. If my memory serves me correctly Lucius, these five gentlemen are Prince Thierry, Prince Maël, Prince Calixto, Prince Denzel and Aimery, the Visconde Flores.”

Nods and the usual polite inquires were made before attention was once again turned to Anastas, who looked rather amused.

“You both seemed to be very engrossed in your conversation; may I inquire what you were discussing?” Prince Maël asked curiously.

Lucius smiled, though his eyes remained cool. “We were exchanging thank-yous for the gifts we gave each other for Christmas and then began discussing how many Pureblooded Families traditionally retain the services of certain shops and suppliers.”

“That is an…interesting choice in conversation.” Aimery replied, slightly taken aback.

“Well, it is a better choice than the usual exchange of pleasantries that are expected at such a prestigious gathering,” Anastas said with some weariness. “Truly, I get sick of repeating my interests, likes and dislikes and discussing current events.”

Prince Calixto smiled slowly, “I couldn’t agree more. I hate these affairs.”

“It has its uses but I prefer to socialize in less crowded venues where there is not such a great need to observe all the formalities.” Anastas confided.

Lucius nodded, “These gatherings do get tiresome and I imagine that it will be worse for you.”

“I’d be lying if I said that it wasn’t trying. Much of the time I feel rather cast adrift in the ocean and every time I think I’m getting closer to the shoreline, some unexpected wave pushes me farther back. There is a great deal to learn and simply not enough time to learn it all. Considering marriage at this point in time is rather silly in my opinion but this provides and excellent opportunity for business and expanding my connections in the Wizarding World. If there is one thing I have learned since I was adopted and thrust into this world, it is that the connections one holds can be the greatest asset a person may have. Unfortunately, it is an area I am somewhat behind in as I was not reared in the Wizarding World but I am fortunate that I will be allowed many opportunities to amend that.”

“What was it like? Growing up in the Muggle World?” Denzel asked curiously.

“It was different and much harder. Growing up in the orphanage, I had my basic needs provided for but there was always uncertainty. The days outsiders came were especially tense. It was both humiliating and pathetic how many of the children struggled to be on their best behavior while competing with each other, in the hopes of getting adopted. I was sickened with that aspect of the orphanage and after a time I didn’t bother to make myself available for the adults who came, looking for a child to adopt. You can imagine my reaction when my father arrived, not at all like the other adults who had come and only interested in me. I was suspicious of course, the few orphans who reached my age were rarely ever adopted and then he told me about magic…” Anastas trailed off, a distant look in his eye.

Lucius stared at his friend, enraptured by his story and a little bit ashamed of himself. He was no better than all these pedigreed popinjays, only interested in Anastas because of his bloodlines, his fortune, his heritage or his rank. How did Anastas put up with such a pretentious gathering of fools?

“In a way it’s ironic,” Anastas said softly, wings twitching subconsciously with his agitation. “I went from having no security in the world and my future, to literally having the world at my fingertips. There are days where I feel as though I am living in a dream and I am uncertain if I want to wake.”

For several heartbeats, no one said anything, still mulling over his words. Anastas frowned slightly and excused himself, his guards falling into place around him as he forged through the crowd.

It was time for the announcement that everyone had been waiting for. The entire room had quieted down to mere whispers as they watched the Prince of Asturias take his place in front of the dais the orchestra had been seated at. Fifteen minutes to midnight and the dawn of a New Year and everyone was breathless with anticipation. Servants appeared levitating trays filled with champagne glasses as they circulated the room. When all his guests had been served, only then did Prince Estavan speak.

“Tonight we have gathered to celebrate the end of a glorious year and the beginning of a one we hope will be as bright. As you all very well know, I am about to announce the contents of my grandson Anastas Lund-Torres’ inheritance. Due to the vast fortune and assets, I will not be announcing the individual net worth of each account, business, investment or estate. Only some of that information will be released through the media later this morning. What I am prepared to tell you is the number of estates and the estimated net worth my grandson has with Gringotts Bank. As of this morning, Anastas has a total of eight estates, five of which are located in Sweden, one in the United States, one in France and one in Spain. His total estimated net worth with Gringotts Bank is 1.52 billion galleons.”

Dead silence filled the room as the guests gaped in shock, not even daring to breathe. Like a dam bursting, noise filled the room as people started talking excitedly and the guards had their hands full keeping the crowd in check as they attempted to press forward on any members of the Royal family. It took a good five minutes before order could be restored and Prince Estavan could finish with his announcement.

“Due to the change in circumstances, we will not accept any ACR proposals unless they include a prospective marriage contract. Proposals will be accepted from January 1st until midnight February 14th and notices accepting or declining the proposals to be delivered on April 1st. I have spoken at length with my son Evaristo and Warlord-Prince Silvio and we have deemed it unwise to accept invitations to social gatherings for the sole purpose of conducting the necessary courtship rituals. All the proper Anterior Courtship Rituals will take place at Torres hosted gatherings solely and we will host one gathering a month beginning in April until Anastas has his official Debut in July.

“During the month of August we will host two gatherings a week and beginning in September we will host two gatherings a month until the end of the year. There will be twenty total gatherings this year and next year we will host two gatherings a month until the end of May and two gatherings a week from June to August with two gatherings a month from September to December. If we need to continue with Anterior Courtship Rituals for an additional year, it will be three gatherings a month during the school term and three gatherings a week during summer holidays.”

Estavan calmly looked around the crowded ballroom. “I would remind you again that the Amello Clause is in full effect and should a marriage contract be signed, marriage may take place as early as my grandson’s sixteenth birthday. If a marriage contract is not signed before my grandson’s sixteenth birthday, a traditional four year long engagement will take effect and no marriage will occur earlier than his twentieth birthday. After much consideration, we will accept ACR proposals from those fourteen up to thirty-eight years of age, as of January 1st. As a final note, we will not accept ACR proposals from anyone who is currently married and seeking an additional spouse. I can think of no greater slight than my grandson taking any position but that of the primary spouse.”

Plucking a glass of champagne from a tray, he raised his glass in toast. “To the New Year, may it be one of prosperity and peace!”

All the guests raised their glasses and happily drank, minds racing with the endless possibilities the future held.

The Study
Golden Oak Hall, Leicester, UK
Wednesday the 1st of January 1975
5:48 AM

Ogden’s Firewhisky seared his throat as he pondered his choices, quill in hand and papers arrayed on his desk. Tancred Peverell— Scholar of Ancient Wizarding Rituals and Rites, known to a few as the Dark Lord Voldemort was at a crossroads. One he had not expected to reach.

Uncle Cuthbert may have lectured him at length about doing his duty for the Family but this was the first occasion that he seriously contemplated actually doing the honorable thing. To his amusement, his outspoken Uncle had been struck speechless at his announcement. Of course, being the sort of wizard he was the older man had not remained silent for long. In fact he had been stomping, roaring and gesturing wildly for the last two hours, like a man a third his age. Tancred really was quite impressed.

“What the devil are you thinking Tancred?! Are you insane? It would be one thing to marry some naïve Pureblooded twit still in school but to make a Prince of the Blood your dupe? Have your brains deserted you?!” Cuthbert roared, his wrinkled face flushed darkly.

Tancred smiled slightly, “No, Uncle, I assure you I am thinking very clearly.”

Cuthbert narrowed his gray-green eyes. “Then enlighten me!”

“I have no intentions of making Anastas Lund-Torres my dupe. That, as you were quick to point out, would be suicidal and I quite enjoy living. Marriage would greatly improve my position and possibly avert open warfare as I had expected. To be honest, I had not expected a bloodless approach to present itself to me but I would be a great fool to dismiss it out of hand, correct?”

“Yes and I did not raise a fool,” Cuthbert agreed reluctantly. “Regardless of the benefits such a marriage would bring, you can’t simply hide your aspirations without risking censure later down the road.”

Tancred sipped his whisky. “I know and I am prepared to reveal my full intentions if I do submit a proposal. The Torres are vengeful and I have no desire to make that illustrious family my enemy.”

“It’s risky.”

“I know but sometimes risk is called for.”

Cuthbert sighed, rubbing his eyes. “Bloody Hell, you can’t do things by halves can you? Damned Slytherin blood!”

“It’s fortunate then, is it not, that I have Ravenclaw blood to balance my ambition?” (7)

“You could ruin the Family with your damned ambition and well you know it, Tancred! All these years of striding the line and you would risk it all on some boy! Madness!”

Tancred sighed, “I have never been impulsive, Uncle. I will be very cautious with the boy and if he proves to be narrow minded, I will withdraw my suit. He would be the ideal solution to many of my problems but I will not coerce him into anything. I dare a great deal but I will not risk my life in such a manner.”

“Very well, you have my approval but I want to meet the boy at length and if I tell you, you’ll withdraw that suit immediately!”

“Of course,” Tancred agreed.

Cuthbert dropped down into the chair in front of his nephew’s desk. “Give me those papers there, you start writing that letter of introduction and I’ll look it over when you finish. May Merlin guide us!”

INTERLUDE

There was no doubt it was the last of its kind. What had happened to the others would remain a mystery, one that it did not contemplate often. In truth, it had little reason to ponder idle things such as the past and its beginnings. No, it had something much better to focus on, that wonderful, most beloved personage known as its Host.

It had encountered people from the very first hours after its creation but it had never met anyone quite like the Host. The greatest of Kings down to the lowest of slaves had attempted to harness it, even the odd non-magical human had tried and all had failed. Thousands of years had passed and it had been carried all across the world by those who wanted its powers and those who had protected it from consuming more mortal lives. Time had no meaning, minutes could pass in between the attempts to unlock it or millennia and still no suitable Host had been presented to it. With every unworthy life it consumed, it grew stronger and wiser to the ways of mortals. Gradually, it had gained some awareness of the world and though it was trapped in the form that it had been bound to, it knew that someday a worthy Host would appear and grant it a limited freedom.

It had grown into an even greater awareness of the world, granting it the ability to sense the thoughts of all life within a certain distance around it when it had come under the ownership of a Mage of great power. This one had been a scholar and knew what danger it presented and wisely had it hidden away to safeguard the lives of those foolish enough to attempt to possess it. A great span of time had passed without any mortals presenting themselves, perhaps a little over two thousand years, and it knew frustration.

Then came the day that it had long waited for, a mortal had braved the deadly labyrinth and succeeded! Hands drenched in magic and blood had picked it up from the unadorned stone pedestal it had sat upon and then, it knew Joy. This was the one! This would be its Host. A lifetime of waiting had come to an end at last.

The Host was a magnificent specimen of mortality. Damaged in mind and body but so very stubborn and strong! It took great pleasure in immersing itself in the Host. The mortals it had met before were no comparison to the Host. They lacked the vibrant spirit and undefeatable will that kept the Host alive even after all the betrayals, sorrows and death. It had been honored to give its power and aid to the Host, so honored in fact that it had changed the price for its service. This one was different than all the others that had come before and this one was worthy of keeping his life.

Many months had passed and the Host had been victorious in battle, so victorious in fact that he had killed enemy and ally alike. The Host had been so distraught by his actions that it took a whole week of soothing before he would take to the field again. Much to its pleasure the more the Host fought, the more distraught and dependent he became to it. As knowledgeable about humans as it was, it knew that such dependency was viewed upon as unhealthy but it could not help but take joy at the fact that the Host needed it to such a degree.

The Creator would likely destroy it, should they cross paths again, but it did not care. What the Host needed the Host would get, even if it broke the guidelines it had been instructed to follow. Luckily those guidelines were more suggestions than actual, binding laws.

In any event, the Host and it grew closer and once again, it found that its understanding of mortals (specifically humans in this case) had grown. At this time, the Host was close to finishing the task that had been left to him, the destruction of that foul wizard by the name of Voldemort. The sun had bathed the world in light when it came to a rather startling conclusion. It loved the Host in a very inappropriate manner, according to the guidelines it no longer followed. But then, it reasoned, the Creator could not have known that it would gain such understanding of mortals. Had it not been created solely to aid the one found worthy to be Host?

A very cunning Idea had struck it. The likelihood of meeting the Creator again was slim but should it happen, there would be no repercussions surely if the actions it took were at the Host’s request? Confident that the Creator could not refute such a thought, it had turned its attention to the Idea.

The Host completed his task nearly a year after it began to implement the Idea. Many lives had been lost in the War and like many of the battles before, only the Host had survived. With much horror, it had stopped the Host from committing suicide and best of all, had convinced the Host to give himself into its care. It could not have been more overjoyed.

It took many, many years to repair the damage done to the Host. Many a time, it cursed itself for allowing the Host to cling to it, for such behavior had spawned a great darkness in the Host’s mind. That darkness was minor compared to the absolute atrophy some of the Host’s memories had caused his mind. Left with little choice, it had erased over half the Host’s memories, modified an eighth of them, created a small portion and bound what could not be erased, but would cause damage, into a place deep within the Host’s mind. The process was painstaking, time consuming and had taken too long to perfect, another fact that it cursed. The Host’s mind was so damaged from some of its errors that even now his mind only appeared to be stable and was always on the brink of shattering again.

By the time it had finished repairing the Host, the world was no longer suitable for the Host and it had expended even more time and energy into finding a world that was. When the Host woke in the new world, it had been so exhausted from pulling them into a new reality that it had left the Host defenseless. Fortunately, the memories it had rooted into the Host’s mind had served him well and by the time it had recovered enough to communicate, the Host had been deeply immersed in the goals it had left him to pursue.

The next stage of its plan would take years to put into place but it was patient. How could it be anything else when it knew the reward that awaited it once the plan came into fruition? Now it only needed to wait until the Host made a choice and then, it could begin the transferring process and claim its reward.

If it could smile, it would grin widely with pure bliss. (1)

Notes:

1) This would the giant Plot Twist mentioned in the Author’s note. Before I get bombarded with a billion questions, I will explain briefly. Not all the events that happened in the ‘old world’ occurred as Anastas remembers them. The most important thing to note is that the only one that would know what actually happened is the fiend itself. It is obvious the fiend is planning something very twisted and Anastas is quite blind to the whole plot. Where this will go, even I am not yet certain.

It may think it understands humans but remember what it knows of humans it has ‘learned’ from all the people it has consumed over the years. That’s a lot of impressions to take in and many will be contradicting. Oh and just to let you know, the fiend has no gender (as it doesn’t have a body). It seems male because it is in a Male host and has adopted male mannerisms. Also, it does not have a name and has never needed a name. I refer to it as Not-Friend because it is the best ‘not-friend but not-quite an enemy’ a person could be (un)fortunate enough to have.

2) Yes, Anastas is filthy rich. It took me ages to figure out what would be appropriate sums. It may seem ludicrous but you have to remember that he comes from an extremely old, very wealthy family. A huge chunk of the Lund monies have just been sitting in Gringotts collecting interest and it’s been decades so it’s collected a lot. The estates too, are worth a huge amount of money and often, have some sort of income produced too.

3) A lot of information yes, I know and I apologize for dumping it all on you in such a manner. In a nutshell, most of the Royal family has additional lesser titles and estates. I used Asturian spellings for some locations.

4) I made the Succession heavily reliant on Patrilineal ties and keeping power within the family (thus the exclusion of the Torres daughters and Pascual). As Anastas is Adopted, he is considered ‘lesser’ than a blood-born Torres and thus, would only inherit if the primary line was completely decimated. The odds of said decimation occurring in this story are nil I can assure you, that’s the absolute last thing I want to deal with.

5) The whole ‘tour of the Wizarding World’ is not an idea based on events in DH. All Wizarding Families do this but only the wealthy can afford to make it a world tour. The tour is generally not made alone. Usually siblings, cousins, close friends or betrothed couples go on tour together. This tradition is used mainly so that young adults can experience other cultures and is also used to enrich friendships. It’s common to stay with family friends if they live nearby your destination. It’s an honor to host a child of a friend because it shows how trusted and valued your friendship is to the parent of said child.

6) All the members of the Asturian Royal Family have a Private Guard force who serves them solely. Generally the Private Guard force is taken from the overall Asturian Military and the Private Guard are usually given to a Royal upon reaching majority at age seventeen. The reference to the ‘Deadly Dozen’ simply refers to Alfonso’s twelve best guards.

7) Tancred has Slytherin blood via the Gaunt connection (which originates from a male descendant) and Ravenclaw blood via the Peverell connection (which originates from a female descendant). Both connections come from his mother’s side of the family and the Peverell connection is the more recent of the two.

Next Chapter- Anastas gets a beat down, Hogwarts without Anastas, Tancred’s plots, Kidnappers deliberate, ACR proposals for your viewing pleasure and Evaristo gets a bad feeling…

Oh, I’m also curious about what side pairings you might be interested in seeing. A good argument for or against a pairing may sway me. For instance, a certain someone I know is quite interested in seeing Sirius/James. Ah and that thing about Dumbledore? I’ll probably fix it, somehow. When I’ve the time.

Have re-written the Character Appendix for this story, will post it to the Group when I have time in the next week or two and probably on my IJ. Will send it if anyone is interested as well, just leave your e-mail address. Write your e-mail like so, otherwise FFnet will make it disappear! (i.e. reviewer at yahoo dot com)

This story is over one year old and has now broken 100 pages. I dream of celebrating with 100 reviews but I have my doubts that will happen. Please, please prove me wrong!

-SheWolfe7 (11-3-07)

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