Lord of Shadows Arc, Book One: Prince of Darkness

Ok, so I admit to a bit of Snapey-ness in the lead-in to the last chapter. . .sorry. . . kinda. . .
But please review!
Also, you may find my list yahoo list (see prev. chapters for address), because in the Files Section, I've got 2 mini-lessons on Kabbalah and Angeology, and how both apply to the events in this chapter. No, you don't need it to get the story, but you may find them interesting.
Just a suggestion . . . enjoy, smut follows . . .

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Chapter 9: Sacred Love
NC17 rating earned this chapter!!!!!yay-ness!!!!
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From General Chaos

In every battle, every war, there is a "tipping point", where victory is assured for the side which wins. Often, the points pass unnoticed, only to be recognized long after everything is over. The Samhain Bonding was the tipping point, I think, in the whole long war between Harry and Voldemort. Of course, we didn't know it at the time, but looking back…

Everyone learned a lot that night. About the way the Universe works, about High Magic, about Love. . . None of us could feel anything for a week after, our hearts were exhausted from that night—even we who stood on the outside of the circle. I don't think I ever wept as much as I did that night, except maybe after the Battle of London. To be part of something like that, to see miracles unfold before your eye, to see and speak with creatures made of Love . to to feel your heart break with another's. . . to feel their joy. . .

That night, as Mrs. Potter spoke with my mum, and Sirius with Professor Snape, I asked the ArchAngel Michael how to help Harry defeat Voldemort. His answer was: Love him, and each other. That is the everything and all of your victory.

Friday, October 24

A crisp autumn breeze blew over the bare hill, ruffling Draco's pale, silvery hair, and setting the leaves on the ground to swirling in miniature cyclones. He watched as Harry counted off the paces to Hermione's direction, placing charmed markers at various intervals. In the centre of the circle Harry was walking, a gravestone stood, adorned with fresh flowers and a half bottle of Firewhiskey. Although partially obscured by the flowers, Draco could still read the words engraved:

Here Lie
James Potter
And
His Beloved Wife
Lily Evans Potter
Betrayed Murdered Avenged
Remembered with Love
In necessariis unitas, in dubiis libertas,
in omnibus caritas


Harry finished the circle and returned to Draco, who noticed the tightness around the former's eyes.

"Steady on," he murmured. "They're still watching."

Harry nodded, taking a deep breath. "When I was little, Aunt Petunia used to tell me that they died in a car crash, and everything exploded, and there was nothing left of them."

Draco pursed his lips, nodding. "Remind me to pay your relatives a visit, someday. I might as well use father's lessons for something . . ."

Harry gave a faint snort. "If you insist. I think we're done here-- we've been seen, we've seemed interested in the site, we've paid our respects, Professor Lupin has left half a bottle of Firewhiskey and I'm getting more depressed by the moment."

Draco frowned, turning and walking over to where Hermione and Professors McGonagall and Lupin stood, Harry following morosely behind.

"You alright, Harry?" Hermione could see the tension now, and gave a worried glance to Lupin.

"Let's go back to school," was all the reply he gave.

Professor McGonagall held out the Portkey with a quickly suppressed look of concern, and in a moment, they were back in Draco's sitting room. No sooner had they arrived than Draco wrapped his arms around Harry, who leaned gratefully into his embrace.

Hermione carefully incinerated her "notes" in the fireplace, exchanging worried glances with the Professors.

"Harry. . ." she began.

"I'll be alright," Harry responded, his voice muffled by Draco's neck. "It's just . . . I didn't even know they had a grave until I asked Professor Lupin in August."

There was a stir in the painting over the fireplace.

"See Godric? Muggles are nothing but trouble. Look what they've done to the poor boy!" Salazar Slytherin scowled over his shoulder at his companion.

"Oh, come on, 'Zar. Not all Muggles are like that. . . look at Miss Granger's parents, they're wonderful!"

"Is that what you think, you-- "

"What I think," Gryffindor interrupted, "is that you look really sexy when you get all agitated." He kissed Slytherin's nose affectionately.

Harry started chortling. "Tell me, Professor Lupin, why did you leave that bottle of Firewhiskey behind?"

The werewolf sighed.

"It has to do with how your father and mother finally got together. . ." he looked warily at Professor McGonagall before continuing. "Your father was madly in love with Lily but, as you know, she couldn't stand him. So one weekend at Hogsmeade, James, u ., ., well he ended up having too much Firewhiskey while lamenting your mother's lack of attention . .

* * *

The two masked men knelt on the floor, finishing their report.

". . . and then they left, leaving the markers in place. We examined them, and they're set to last for a week. As for their, er. . .relations. . . well, they seemed a bit distant to me, not unexpected since they've hated each other for years . . ."

The one before whom they knelt was silent for a moment.

"Ahhh, poor sentimental fools . . ." he finally hissed, gazing into shadows. "We shall await them, and lovely young Draco will be mine again."

* * *

The morning of October thirty first dawned bright and crisp, the fire of the autumn leaves painting the Hogwarts grounds red, brown, orange, and gold. Inside the Great Hall, students ate their breakfasts, some eating far more than usual, due to the fasting requirements later in the day. Harry and Draco, especially, were trying to fill themselves as much as possible. The Slytherins seated near Draco -- now almost half the House-- entertained themselves by watching as Draco managed to stuff himself to bursting with more flair and panache than any had ever thought possible


"Why are you stuffing yourself this morning?" Pritchard asked around a piece of sausage.

Draco swallowed. "Because, after lunch, I can only have water until about eight, and then nothing, until the whole ruddy thing is over, which will be after midnight. So I've got to eat as much as I can, while I can, so I'm not passing out at an inopportune time."

A second year girl blinked. "You can't eat anything after lunch? What about the Hallowe'en sweets?"

"Not even sweets," Draco said regretfully. "And that does not mean you can have mine. I'll eat it tomorrow. . ."

The girl's face became crafty. "Well," she said. "Perhaps we should make sure there's some left for you. . ."

Draco smirked approvingly. "I would be in your debt," he said solemnly. "Not much, mind you, but a little."

She smirked back. "You're a prefect, and I never know when I might need a small favour in the future. . ."

Over at the Gryffindor table, a strangely similar conversation was taking place.

"So," Dennis Creevey consulted his list. "We're saving sweets for Harry, Ron, Hermione, Neville, Malfoy, Zabini, and Parkinson . . .what about Silversman?"

Ron shook his head, swallowing his juice. "No, Silversman will be staying here tonight."

"Are you sure? He's really clever. . . "

Ron shook his head.

"He's a first year. If something should happen, it'll be my responsibility . . ."

"Some first years can handle a lot," Colin said, looking at Harry as he said this. Harry didn't say anything, pretending to concentrate on his food.

"That was an exception," Ron said. "I have no doubt that Silversman would be fine, but I won't risk it. Don't think that night was without its cost. . ."

Colin sighed. "I think you're selling him short. . . he'd be very useful. . ."

"I'm not, and he still will be," said Ron curtly. "Just because he's staying here doesn't mean he won't be helping."

That got the table's attention.

"Is there anything we can do to help? Aside from saving sweets, that is," Dennis ventured.

Ron looked at the faces, then at Harry and Hermione.

"Later today, invitations will be sent out to the students, inviting them to a Hallowe'en Party, here in the Hall, hosted by the Hufflepuffs. If you want to help, go to the party and keep the other Slytherins occupied, until at least one o'clock in the morning. Silversman and Parkinson will be heading up the effort, so tell them you'd like to help, and follow their direction. Whatever happens, make sure they don't go wandering about, or have a sudden need for their Head of House. When Snape eventually does show up, it'll mean we're done, and you can go to bed."

Harry stilled suddenly and silence fell as the students pondered on this.

"So. . .Snape. . ." someone ventured.

Ron made a show of scoffing, chagrined at the slip.

"Harry's the one who drew up the list. Do you really think he'd have included the greasy git?"

The others nodded, mollified, if still somewhat puzzled. Harry nudged Ron's foot under the table, acknowledging his dodge.

As the day progressed, several Gryffindors approached Pansy and Todd, volunteering to help for the evening. There was concern, however, when Silversman got landed with detention with two of the other Slytherins with Snape that evening. Apart from being upset over missing the party, however, he didn't seem unduly concerned. Finally, Pansy took Seamus and Dean aside.

"Don't ask me why, for I won't tell you, but it was supposed to happen. Don't worry about it." Pansy's voice was hushed, not wanting to be overheard. Seamus anan nan nodded their puzzled understanding, curious, but letting it go. They were well aware that there were some things they could not know, now, for their own safety.

Lunch was a noisy affair as the Hufflepuff invitations went out. The House was well known for their parties, and the students were overwhelmed with last-minute plans for costumes. In the midst of all the excitement, the doors to the Great Hall swung open, and the twins strolled in, dressed in lurid greens and magentas.

Loud cheers erupted for the trickster heroes-turned-businessmen. Fred and George waved to their fans as they made their way over to their old table.

"Hullo, Harry." Fred sat to his side, as George settled on the other side of Ron. "Ready for tonight?" Before Harry could answer, George interrupted,

"Of course he's ready," he said teasingly. "He's been waiting for this day for months." Harry blushed at the truth of the statement.

"Why are you here?" he finally asked. The twins feigned hurt expressions.

"Do you want us to leave already?" Fred asked in a sorrowful voice.

Harry sighed a bit impatiently, and they relented.

"We're here early, for later tonight," George said. "Ron wants us to rig some surprises outside the Room tonight."

"Oh," Harry nodded, taking another bite of food. "Well, I am glad to see you, despite your need to make sport of me."

The twins smiled. "Speaking of making sport, where's that delicious little love-muffin of yours?" leered George.

Harry rolled his eyes. "Draco is sitting at his table, near the doors."

"Good! We'd like to discuss some business with him before tonight . . ." Fred looked around. "So, how's Neville doing with everything?" he asked in a lower tone, eyes showing concern.

Hermione grinned. "Neville's been doing quite well. He even impressed Snape at his last practice. He's getting quite good. . ."

"Snape was impressed?" Somehow, the twins found this hard to believe.

"He didn't say as much, of course, but he has stopped questioning his ability. . ." Hermione was quite proud of Neville, having been the one who helped him practise when he wasn't with Professor McGonagall or Professor Flitwick.

The twins looked suitably impressed. "Well, on that cheerful note, we'd best see to the love-muffin before he leaves for class. . ." Fred and George rose from the table, stopping to briefly hug Ginny, and made their way over to the Slytherin table.

"Oy, Malfoy!" they cried as they passed the Ravenclaw table. "We've got an early copy of this month's earnings report for you. . ."
* * *

The rest of the day proceeded more or less as usual. Between classes, Harry would corner Draco in abandoned hallways and attempt to kiss the life out of the blonde. After lunch, they, Neville and Hermione were dismissed from class, so they could take naps to conserve their energy. Ron and the others going to the Ministry also took naps when the afternoon classes were over. Night fell, and everyone gathered in the Headmaster's office. Most people were dressed in plain, everyday robes, except for Harry and Draco, who each wore their favourite pyjamas, dressing robes, and beach shoes.

An open trunk sat by the wall, and people were putting various things inside it, many shrunk to save space. Hagrid had come by with two small ebony statues, one a stag, the other a cobra. He had also brought a small box of carved wood to pack them in, and Draco quickly added his silver fox pendant to it. In addition were an assortment of sheets, pillows and cushions. Professor Flitwick stopped by with a jar of Dead Sea salt, a pouch of Red Sandalwood shavings mixed with rose petals, and several lumps of Benzoin from Java. To this collection, Blaise and Hermione added their bottle of potion and Professor McGonagall added a bottle of Burgundy, bottled on the day when the last King Louis lost his head. Professor Dumbledore had an assortment of things to add. First, a sword that Harry found very familiar. Then a wooden goblet, a shard of golden-red stone, and several other odd items, which were really Portkeys to get everyone back to Hogwarts with, and finally a bottle of reddish water from Chalice Well, at Glastonbury.

Harry gave his father's Invisibility Cloak to Professor Snape, before adding his and Draco's potion to the trunk. Hermione stood nearby, ticking off the objects on their list. Soon, everything was accounted for, and Hermione closed the trunk with a resounding thud.

Dumbledore cleared his throat.

"All that is left before you leave is for Miss Tonks to take her place . . ."

Tonks, wearing heeled boots and having bound her chest beneath the robes, stepped up to Snape and stared at him intently for several moments, before her face melted and morphed into his.

"That's all well and good, but what if she needs to speak?" asked the real Professor.

The fake smirked.

"All accounted for." The voice was identical. "I'm even wearing heeled boots to match your imposing height. The only thing left is to remember to scowl whenever I feel like smiling, and to growl at every Gryffindor I cross." At this she turned to Ron and scowled for all she was worth.

The target twitched.

"That's uncannily accurate," he said, grinning, despite the scowl.

She smirked. "I'll be off then. Good luck everyone!" She rearranged her scowl, and left.

Harry shuddered.

"That was bizarre. . ." Everyone, including Snape, agreed.

Dumbledore spoke into the silence,

"Well, then, that should be everything taken care of. Mr. Shacklebolt and Mr. Moody will be meeting you there. Oh, and I know you know the way, Harry, but my contact would not allow the Room to be used unless I promised to give you this." He gave Harry a sheet of parchment, upon which was written directions to get to the Room, and safety instructions for when he arrived. In big, bold letters was the warning: DON'T LISTEN TO THE VOICES, IF YOU HEAR THEM. AND NEVER TOUCH THE VEIL. Harry tucked the sheet into a pocket, and the headmaster continued, handing out assorted candy wrappers.

"These will take you to telephone box. You can come back here directly from the Room, but to go, you must enter the normal way. To activate them, count from four to seven, then say the word 'elope.' You'll appear inside the telephone box, so you'll have to go in small groups. Once you are all down, Shacklebolt and Moody will join you and, should you run into anybody, will serve as your official escort. I doubt this will be needed, but it never hurts to be prepared. Now. . . was there anything else . . . ?" His thick brows furrowed in thought. "No, I think that was it. Does anyone have any questions?" Heads shook in negation.

"Then I wish you good luck. Who's going first?"

Ron stepped forward.

"Mum, Dad, Charlie, Ginny and I will go first. After us Zabini's group should come, the Professors, and then Harry, Malfoy, Neville, and Hermione."

Snape bristled at being told what to do by a student, but a sharp glance from the Headmaster held his tongue.

"A good idea, Mr. Weasley. Sounds as if you've thought this through."

Ron nodded, and with a last glance at Harry and Draco, counted from four to seven, then said "Elope!" and disappeared.

Zabini turned to Bill, the twins, and Luna Lovegood, holding out the wrapper. They waited for a couple of minutes, before leaving.

Next, Professors McGonagall, Snape, and Lupin gathered together. After a few final words with the Headmaster, they too left.

Neville, Hermione, and Draco gathered close to Harry, levitating the trunk over as they did.

"I'm a little nervous," Neville confessed.

"At least you're not the one getting shagged in front of everybody," Draco replied tartly.

Hermione smiled primly. "I'll close my eyes, if it makes you feel better."

"Not hardly," he snorted. "But please do . . . and plug your ears while you're at it."

Hermione blushed, and Dumbledore cleared his throat.

"I have one last thing to give you, Harry." He withdrew six envelopes, each with a sigil on the outside. "It is an old tradition when working with angels to place a piece of parchment beneath their place, so that they may leave additional messages if they so choose." Harry took the envelopes, his eyes recognising the sigils inscribed on them.

"Right, thank you, Sir," he said. "Anything else?"

Dumbledore shook his head. "No. I will be waiting here when you return."

Harry nodded, throwing an arm around Draco. The others reached out to touch the Portkey, and Harry spoke the necessary words.

* * *

The Atrium of the Ministry hadn't changed much since Harry's last visit, save for the absence of the statues that had previously stood in the middle of the fountain. The group was silent as they made their way down in the lift, each lost in their own thoughts. Again, Harry passed through the black door, and they all stood in the centre of the circular black room.

"We need the Veil Room," Harry said, and the walls spun, the blue-burning candles blurring as they passed. When they stopped, Harry approached the door before them, a d a deep breath, and led them through.

"Right then," Harry said, rubbing his hands together briskly and turning to Ron. "Thank you for helping with this, Ron, it's good to know you're watching over our back. Are you all set?"

Ron nodded.

"We've got a small army here tonight," he replied, smiling grimly. "We'll hold them for as long as you need."

"Then I'll see you when we're done." Harry turned and made his way down the stone steps to the dais with the stone arch, the floating trunk following behind. Draco was waiting at the bottom of the stairs, looking small in the vastness of the room.

"Well, I suppose we'd best get started." He gave Draco a tight smile as he opened the trunk. The first thing he pulled out was the jar of finely ground salt, and a piece of parchment with a carefully drawn diagram. He quickly opened up the jar and, holding the parchment before his eyes, said "Exemplar amplifico," and tipped the jar over in his hand.

But, instead of falling to the floor, the sparkling contents poured out like a river of white fairy-dust, floating through the air to trace the design on the parchment, only in the air. When the jar was empty, Harry handed it to Draco. Checking the design once more, he dropped the sheet and held his hands out in front of himself.

"Amplifico!" he repeated, drawing his hands apart, and the rings of salt grew wider, until they were large enough to cover the dais. Satisfied, Harry slowly lowered his arms, the rings descending with them until they reached the ground. Breathing a sigh, he took Draco's hand and walked over to the dais to inspect his handiwork.

"Look alright to you?" he asked.

"Yeah, looks good." Draco replied, inspecting the angles, rings, sigils, and other writing. "It's prettier in salt than it would have been in the . . . what was it, ground sulphur and goat's blood?"

Harry snorted faintly.

"I'm glad it pleases your aesthetic sensibilities," he said, and drew out his wand. "Concresco!" he murmured, and all the small particles solidified into solid, crystalline halite, frozen into the proper configuration. Both boys nodded, satisfied, before turning back to the trunk, the other participants gathering round them.

"All right," Harry rummaged through the articles, "Draco, here are the potions, the wine, and the bedding. These go into the innermost circle. Hermione, the sword goes to the east, Professor McGonagall, the chalice goes to the west, Professor Lupin, the stone goes to the north. Professor Snape, the sandalwood, rose, and benzoin need to be lit-- the first two around the edges of the outermost circle, the last in Haniel's place. Neville, see where the crescent is? The statues go in the outermost circle, opposite the crescent." All that was left were the Portkeys to get back to Hogwarts, and the bottle of Glastonbury water.

Harry took the bottle and carefully walked over the halite circles, reaching the north end, closest to the Veil. With utmost care, he unstopped the bottle and tipped it, the thin stream of water falling directly onto the outermost ring of halite. But, instead of dissolving the ring, the water was absorbed, the crystal becoming a pale pink. Harry carefully walked clock-wise around the circle, pouring out the last drop of water as he returned again to the north. That task accomplished, he returned the empty bottle to the trunk, and returned to examine the rest of the preparations. The incense was burning nicely, wisps of pungent smoke creeping along the floor like strange, ghostly vines. Everything seemed ready-- except Draco, who was looking more nervous by the minute. Harry stepped into the centre ring, and knelt next to him where he was arranging, re-arranging, and re-re-arranging the assortment of cushions, pillows, and sheets.

"You all right?" he asked, somewhat worried.

Draco glared at him.

"In less than," he pulled Harry's wrist over to where he could look at the watch, "in less than twenty minutes, everyone will watch as you put your. . .in . . . my . . . what I'm trying to say, Potter, is no, I'm not all right. But there's not really much to be done for it, is there?" He shook his head. "Sorry. I guess I'm just more nervous than I expected. Still, I'd rather this lot saw me with my arse in the air than the other group wanting to see it . . ."

Harry sat back on his heels, pulling out the envelopes Dumbledore had given him earlier.

"Tell you what," he said, "since we can't do anything about it, we might as well get it over with. You go put these where they belong, and then we can begin."

Draco looked at the envelopes. "Yes. Deciphering angel sigils will certainly take my mind off my impending . . . consummation . . ." he peered at the first envelope. "Alright. . .two squiggles, one sort of looks like an upside down S. . . and there's that little flag thingy at the bottom. . ."

"Raphael," Harry grinned. "Under Gryffindor's sword."

Draco sighed and took the envelope over. "Yet another bloody Gryffindor. . . I can't believe this. . ." He slid the envelope under the sword. "Right. Next is . . . there's two loops, looks like an M. . . oh yeah, M for Metatron . . ." He walked over and placed the envelope behind Neville's feet. "And now. . .Roman number three, some Saturn-ish shape . . . like a Z with a J over it. . .J. . . Jibril, right? So Gabriel. . ."

"Under the Goblet of Fire," Harry pointed west, and Draco followed.

"Alright. . .massive squiggles . . .two inverted angles, overlapping. . . I should know this . . . Michael?" he guessed, showing the sigil to Harry.

"Looks like. . ." Harry handed Draco his wand. "In the south, put my wand on top."

Draco did so, looking at the next envelope. "Hm. Only angles here . . .looks like Uriel."

Harry pointed north.

"Under the shard of the Philosopher's Stone."

"So this last one must be Haniel. . ." Draco returned, placing the final envelope opposite Neville, next to the smouldering benzoin. "That's it, then."

Harry took his hand and squeezed it in reassurance.

"Everybody at their place?" he asked, looking around. Professors Snape and Lupin stood opposite each other just outside the southern half of the innermost ring, while Neville stood awkwardly at the northernmost extent of the ring. Hermione and Professor McGonagall had taken their places on the crescent, and to Harry's surprise, both the Professor and his friend had their hair loose about their shoulders. Taking one last look up at the doors, he saw Ron and the others already at work securing them.

"Ron, we're going to start down here. I'll see you again when we're done." Ron waved in response, nodding, and directed Luna to her place beside the doors.

Harry took a deep breath to calm himself, then leaned over to place a soft kiss on Draco's lips.

"Here we go," he whispered, and Draco replied with a squeeze of the hand and a game smile.

Seeing Draco finally smile, Harry turned and walked to the eastern edge of the outermost ring. He took another deep breath, centring himself, and began. To the others in the room, the low whistling hiss sounded like the sound of the wind through the trees. The pitch varied, and a soft crooning started behind the hissing. Soon they became aware that some of the hissing was indeed from air, as a wind picked up in the room, first a faint zephyr, but quickly growing to cyclone force, sweeping up the incense smoke into small tornadoes. Harry stopped speaking, but still the wind grew, until it began to assume form. A bright light, like a travelling star, shot out of the wind, bounced off the walls, floor, and ceiling, until it landed on the sword.

Harry, old bean! How ARE you?

The light resolved into the form of a young man, about the same age as Harry. He was dressed in a white lab coat and was leaning on a fishing rod, prismatic eyes blazing, huge golden wings sweeping off his back, and wearing a thousand-watt grin.

"Raphael?" Harry had heard that Raphael was the "chummiest of all angels", but this was even more than he'd expected.

Righto, chum! Oh, and Draco! I haven't seen you in, like, forever!

"Erm, hello," Draco replied awkwardly from the centre of the circle. Harry gave the overly cheerful angel a sidelong glance as he walked to the south. Again he spoke in Parseltongue, this time making sounds akin to water dripping onto a hot skillet. Sharp hissing and spitting filled the air, and soon sparks were flashing up from the floor, suddenly exploding into a raging bonfire which subsided to reveal a tall warrior in golden armour, a green cloak, and a red surcoat with a dragon device on it. His hair seemed to be flames, his eyes piercing sapphires, and in his hand he held a glowing spear.

Greetings, Harry, Son of David.

"Er. . .my father's name was James . . ." Harry was quickly finding the angels confusing. Michael nodded.

Well, yes, your immediate father was James. But your grandfather of . . . bloody long ago, his name was David. One minute. . . Raphael, love . . .

The first angel turned to the second. Hmmm?

Focus, dear. I know it's in your nature to be somewhat flighty, but do you think you could tone it down a bit?

Raphael rolled his brilliant eyes. Oh, brother, you're no fun.

I'm loads of fun. Michael seemed to smirk. But the fun comes later, no?

While the two angels were occupied with each other, Harry moved on to the west. Again he spoke, this time the hissing a lower tone, like the sound of surf crashing on to the shore. A fine mist filled the room, congealing into a young, silver-haired woman, dressed in dark blues and purples, bearing lilies in her hand.

Hello, Harry. Her voice was low, smooth, and calming. I see my dear brothers are acting up again. Don't worry, they're only like this around people they like. They'll calm down when they need to.

Harry nodded in thanks for her reassurance, and moved on to the north, facing the arch and the ever-moving black Veil. He began to croon, the sound coming from low in his belly. At first, nothing seemed to happen. Then an unfelt wind seemed to touch the Veil for just a moment, before dying again. None of the mortal participants, therefore, were ready when the earthquake hit, the floor dropping out from under their feet for a moment before rising back up. Harry just caught himself before falling down, but in the corner of his eyes, he could see Hermione helping Professor McGonagall back to her feet. Refocusing on the Veil, his eyes widened as it seemed to part to allow a tall figure to be revealed, completely covered by emerald robes. Massive green-black raven wings swept out, the wind of their passing causing a few dry, dead leaves to tumble into the circle. Harry brought his eyes up to meet the angel's sharp gaze.

Harry. The voice rumbled in the depths of Harry's being. Taking a deep breath, Harry addressed the angel.

"Sir, there are two I need tonight to act as witnesses, and they reside now in your realm."

Uriel didn't move, his gaze unblinking. Finally, his wings ruffled.

Call them forth.

Harry blinked. He hadn't thought the living were allowed. . .

"Mother! Sirius! I need your help. . ."

A violent wind seemed to take the Veil, and within moments, his call was answered. Sirius looked better than Harry had ever seen him, dressed in formal robes. At his elbow, he escorted Lily, who was in a bright red, ankle-length dress and matching heels. Harry found himself speechless as they approached. His mother smiled in understanding, bending to place a swift kiss on his cheek before passing him to greet the others. Sirius grinned and ruffled his hair, passing quickly on as well. Harry turned to follow their progress, absently rubbing his cheek where his mother had kissed him.

With a quick shake of his head, Harry brought himself back to his task. Hopefully, there would be time to talk with them after. Walking past Neville – who looked at him wide-eyed-- Harry rejoined Draco in the centre. Together they walked to the south end of the innermost ring, where Haniel's envelope lay.

Harry began hissing again, and between one blink and the next, a short, round woman in bright green robes with soft grey wings appeared. Jewels dripped from her ears and fingers, and she spoke with the lilting tones of the Caribbean.

Ohh, now ain't dey cute! She smiled warmly at the two, her wings fluttering in excitement. I'm happy you two finally got together. . . now eef only some othahs in dis circle would be as smaht . . .

Draco lifted an interested eyebrow, but Harry pulled him away to stand before Neville. One last time Harry began hissing, but this time it was so soft that even Draco could hardly hear him. There was a low rumble, more felt than heard, and then the light and shadow before them bent.

"Eep!" Neville jumped. "He looks like Professor Snape!"

True enough, the black and white angel bore a striking resemblance to the Potions master. That THE VOICE, the Divine Chancellor, should so resemble the feared Professor was a blow to Neville's already frayed nerves.

Metatron gave the boy a wry grin.

Let us say, rather, that the good Professor is similar to me, in appearance and speech, although not, here he turned his firey gaze to Snape, in attitude. He could rival Job for sheer grouchiness. He smirked, turning back to Neville. Although, he's only so bad- tempered because underneath it all he's very soft-hearted and sentimental.

"I am not!" Snape cried, horrified at the damage his reputation was taking.

The surrounding angels snickered as Metatron lifted one elegant eyebrow, leaning forward conspiratorially to Neville, Harry, and Draco.

And he has a fondness for shoes rivalling Dumbledore's affinity for socks. He winked at Neville. But enough about my twin, we've got to get to business. First, is everyone here?

His burning eyes scanned the room and, finding everything in order, motioned Haniel forward.

Is the Foundation set? he asked.

Haniel grinned broadly. Oh, yes, dey is more den ready!

Next he looked at the other participants. Are you all prepared to witness the joining of Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter?

There was a ragged chorus of "Yes's" and "I am's".

"Uhm, about that 'witnessing the joining' thing. . ." Draco blushed as the luminous eyes met his own.

Harry put a supportive arm around Draco's waist.

"What he means to ask is, 'Is there anyway we could have some privacy?'"

Wings fluttered around the circle, and Metatron smiled.

Our sister Gabriel has come up with a solution. Do you have any other concerns? Both Harry and Draco shook their heads minutely. Good. Now, Draco, speak truthfully. Are you here of your own free will?

Draco nodded. "I am."

And you, Harry, are you here of your own free will?

"I am," Harry smiled, glancing at Draco as he said this. Haniel picked up the bottle of wine and one of the potions, then drew a wineglass out of the air. Setting everything to hovering, she carefully poured the wine into the glass, then added three drops of potion. Metatron narrowed his eyes.

Aphrodisiac? Is that altogether wise?

Haniel pursed her lips and glared at her brother. It's only a little bit, to help them get over 'dere nervousness and inhibitions. Dis will in no way effect dere free will, I promise.

Very well. Hand it over. Metatron still looked dubious about the potion, but trusted that Haniel knew what she was doing. Taking the glass, he held it between Draco and Harry.

Darkness raised you, Draco, and will never leave. Darkness chases the heels of your love. Will you accept the shadows he bears, with the light he brings? If so, drink. . .

Draco took the glass and sipped, the wine bitter and sweet on his tongue, warmth kindling in his stomach. Light shines harsh upon the desert of the soul, but your love will give you shade.

Metatron took the glass back, turning to look at Harry.

From your earliest memories, you have run, you have fought, and the fight will not end. But with trust, one can find rest. Will you trust your love with all that you are, and find your rest? If so, drink . . .

Harry sipped in his turn, frowning at the strange taste.

Darkness wraps you as a shroud, but your love will give you light. Once more the angel took the glass and threw it to the floor. The glass shattered and disappeared, the remaining wine absorbed by the halite circles, staining them a darker pink than the outermost ring.

Well, that's all the formalities. If everyone could please link up to Neville, we can let these two get to their business. . .

Neville drew out his wand, concentrating as strands of energy reached out to connect. At first it was very easy, since he was very well accustomed to the energy of the people he was working with. But then Sirius and Lily added their energy, and the strange feel of energy from people not-really-living threw him a bit.

Steady on. Metatron murmured in his ear. It's just like the others', it only feels a bit different. Now, when my dear siblings add their energy, that too will feel different, but handle them just the same.

Neville nodded, tongue poking out of his mouth in concentration. The angels added their energy, and his wand began to hum.

"It's not as hard as I thought it would be. . ." he commented.

Metatron smiled, and nodded to Gabriel. You can shield them, now.

Gabriel reached out past Professor McGonagall and Hermione, touching an invisible barrier at the innermost ring. Mist swirled around Harry and Draco, shielding sight and sound, forming a pearly, semi-reflective dome. Raphael and Michael both reached out, igniting small lights within the dome so that Harry and Draco would be able to see what they were doing.

Inside, Harry smiled, enjoying the way the flickering lights seemed to make Draco's hair and skin glow. Already, he could feel the effects of the wine and aphrodisiac on his empty stomach, but he didn't mind. All he could think about was the porcelain beauty in front of him. Licking his lips, he stepped forward, kissing Draco tenderly, wrapping his arms about the lithe form as lips opened to his. A soft moan graced the air, and the kiss deepened. Hands wandered, clutching, caressing, roaming errant over much desired territory. The need for oxygen finally intruded and they pulled slightly apart.

"You've been teasing me all day, Harry," Draco breathed. "Don't start again now."

Harry grinned.

"Lucky for you, we haven't got time." He reached down to pull the sash holding Draco's dressing robe closed. Their lips met once more, their hands given purpose this time, as each worked swiftly to reveal the other. Beach shoes were easily slipped out of, as were the dressing robes. They gasped as the pyjama tops were discarded, letting their chests meet skin to skin.

"Ohhh, Potter," Draco smirked, "is that a broom in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?"

"Cut it out, Malfoy," Harry growled back, reaching down, "this is sex magic, not Quidditch. The proper term is wand." He caressed his prize, drawing a moan out of his companion, who eagerly sought to reciprocate.

Moments later, the two had fallen down onto the cushions, pillows and sheets, pyjama trousers mysteriously gone. The touch of erection to erection clouded their minds in a warm haze of passion, tongues twining together even tighter.

Taking a deep breath, Harry pulled back. It was all very well for Draco to lose himself in the heat of the moment, but it was essential for Harry to keep his head, both to keep from hurting his love and to ensure the ritual wasn't performed in vain. Carefully, he leaned back down, kissing Draco's heart softly, then laving a taut nipple with his tongue and lips, teasing its partner with one hand while reaching for the last potion—the all-essential lubrication-- with his other. Dividing his concentration, Harry opened the jar and tipped it, coating his fingers with a slick substance that felt like liquid Teflon, but smelled of frankincense.

"Draco, my love, if you turn over, you'll enjoy this more . . ."

With a wanton groan, Draco turned over, rearranging the pillows and cushions as he went, shuddering as they rubbed against his leaking prick. He arched his back and mewled as he felt something warm and slick run over his entrance, and then enter it. Soft kisses were placed along his spine as the finger worked its way in, turning first this way, then that. He bit his lip as Harry added a second finger and then, without warning, Draco gasped and convulsively pushed back onto the fingers in his arse.

"Oh, Gods, Harry! Do that again!"

"You like that, love?" Harry grinned, twisting his fingers again, deciding that that particular sound Draco made-- a sort of whimpering scream-- definitely was something he wanted to hear again. Carefully he added another finger, searching out that place inside him again, eyes sparkling at Draco's response.

"More, Harry! And no dallying!" Draco was sure Harry was trying to kill him, between the teasing he'd endured all day, and now that incredible thing Harry had just done. He whimpered when he felt the fingers leave, frowning, drawing his lips into a pout which quickly disappeared as he felt something much larger than the fingers being placed against his entrance.

Harry tenderly kissed the nape of his neck.

"Are you ready?" he asked. Draco thought it was sweet that Harry even bothered to ask, but still.

"Damn, Harry, I've been ready for a h!"h!" He heard a chuckle by his ear and then he was being slowly opened as Harry's hardness entered him. There wasn't any of the pain he had expected, only a wonderful, incredible feeling of fullness.

"Ohhh. . ." he was sure he had meant to say something, but he couldn't remember what. Luckily, Harry had some ideas.

"Uhn, Draco! So warm and tight! Ah."An"And then he was fully settled in. "Are you OK, love?"

"Oh, I'm . . . quite good. . ." He clenched his muscles around Harry's cock in emphasis, causing the other to gasp in pleasure. But still, Harry wouldn't move. "What are you waiting for?!"

Harry's hands tightened on Draco's hips.

"I'm looping your energy back through Neville, so you're an active part of the bond, not just the passive recipient. Trust me, I'm going as fast as I can . . ." He licked the spot beneath Draco's ear, before sucking the lobe in to nibble on it. For his part, Draco strove to take deep breaths, understanding the importance of waiting a bit, but not liking it at all.

Finally, after what seemed a thousand years, but was really only a few seconds, Harry sighed in relief, and began whispering in a soft, sibilant whisper, pulling slowly out of Draco. Then, with a hiss, he thrust back in, aiming for and hitting his target, causing Draco to scream. Soon, a rhythm grew between them, Harry's voice blending in with the whispering of the sheets, Draco pushing back to meet each thrust with noises of his own. And each was aware of energy building all around them, circling them like a small hurricane, their heaving bodies in the eye. Faster and faster the energy swirled, and the two found their tempo increasing, feeling the swell of an invisible, unheard symphony, building and building in a glorious crndo ndo until--

With a crash marked only by dual screams of joy, everything collapsed inward, through Harry and into Draco. Unseen, but not unknown, their souls met and rejoiced in their joining, a feeling somehow beyond any pleasure flooding through both as orgasm claimed their bodies, their souls kissed, and their minds merged. All at once, Harry found himself being filled with Draco's memories, as Draco was likewise filled with not only Harry's essence, but Harry's essence, gaining his memories as well.

And then the moment was past, and Harry was Harry again, and he collapsed, spent, on his beloved's back. Draco, however, felt more alive and energised than he'd ever felt before. With a smug smile, he struggled to turn over under Harry's weight.

"Harry, I do love you, but you're not a feather weight . . . could you maybe move a bit?"

"Mmph . . ." Harry could hardly move his eyes enough to blink, let alone his arms to move the rest of himself. He blinked blearily at Draco. I do hope that worked. I haven't the energy to try again tonight. he thought faintly.

Draco smirked, rolling Harry onto his back. Of course it worked, you dolt. We worked on this for three months—did you really doubt our genius?

Harry was confused for a moment. How had Draco . . .Ohhh! Harry smiled lazily. "It worked . . ." That was good, now he could sleep.

"Oh, no, not yet, Harry," Draco warned. With a sudden thought, he leaned over and kissed his . . . his husband-- he grinned at the thought. Harry's eyes widened as he felt energy flowing into him, refreshing and waking him back up like the smell of freshly brewed coffee, or newly harvested peppermint.

The kiss was interrupted as Draco suddenly sat up and looked south. A frown marred his face.

"Let's continue this back in our own rooms, love. . ."

Harry sat up.

"What's wrong?" he asked as Draco performed a quick cleaning charm on the sheets and themselves.

Tossing Harry his pyjamas, he scowled.

"There are about fifteen Death Eaters outside the doors to this room." He was fully dressed by the time Harry had pulled on his trousers. Seeing that Harry was at least moderately decent, Draco touched the silver-grey dome that surrounded them, and it collapsed in a snow-like flurry. Now Harry could see where Ron's group was gathered by the doors, some already knocked out on the floor, the others straining to hold the door. Suddenly, Michael turned from his observations of the fight to look at Draco.

Draco nodded at an unheard communication. "Harry, love, I'll take care of this. Uncle Sev, you should cover up."

"Draco-- " Harry was confused for a moment, before Draco's plan filtered through to him. "Ohh. . . wow, alright. . ."

Draco smiled, tightening the sash on his dressing robe, pleased at Harry's confidence in his abilities. Calmly, he walked over the halite circles, pausing momentarily as Michael leaned down to whisper in his ear.

"Weasley," he called out. "When I give the word, let them in and get out of the way."

"I trust you have a plan?" was the tight, strained reply.

In answer, Draco pulled out his wand and concentrated. A band of silvery light stretched across the doorway.

"Now!"

As one, the remaining defenders dropped their spells and charms, splitting up and dragging their unconscious companions out of the way. With a resounding crash, the doors opened, masked figures pouring through, only to get caught in the band which wrapped around them, halting their progress and blocking their magic.

One of the figures straightened in shock.

"Sirius Black!"

Both Neville and Harry snarled at the voice of Bellatrix Lestrange, but found themselves grasped firmly by immortal companions.

"Sorry, Auntie Bella," Draco purred, smirking as he put his wand back in his pocket. "I'm afraid you won't be very successful in your mission tonight. Give my other suitor my regards. If you remember, that is." He reached out both his hands, light sparkling between them."Obliviate!" The lights rushed at the Death Eaters, hitting them each in the head. Draco pulled his hands apart, then brought them together again in a huge clap, and all the Death Eaters disappeared.

"Where'd they go?" Ron asked, puzzled but suitably impressed.

Draco smirked. "After wiping their memories of the evening, I Disapparated them. They went back to the last place they apparated from, and won't be able to go anywhere else for at least an hour." He turned back to the circle, looking at Michael. "Thank you for your help, Sir."

The angel gave a lopsided smile. You can call us by our names, you know. And you're very welcome. That was well done.

Draco smiled at the angelic praise, stepping over the halite rings to rejoin his -- he grinned again at the thought -- his husband, where he stood speaking with his mother and godfather.

"Harry, love, won't you introduce me to your family?"

Harry turned with a strained smile.

"Of course. Mum, Sirius, this is Draco Malfoy, my . . .husband . . ." a grin lit his face as the realisation came to him. "Draco, this is my mother, Lily, and my godfather, Sirius Black."

Draco gallantly bowed over Lily's hand with a murmured "Enchanté," and then gave Sirius a firm handshake.

Lily smiled. "I see he's inherited the infamous Malfoy charm. Welcome to the family, Draco."

"And he cleared my name with such deviousness!" Sirius grinned. "You don't suppose he could be one of the next generation of Marauders, Harry?"

Harry wrapped an arm about Draco's waist as Lily shook her head and rolled her eyes.

"Hmm, that's a thought. You think Quicksilver would get along with Moony, Prongs and Padfoot?"

Sirius laughed.

"Of course! Well, as long as he doesn't revert . . . he's partway avenged me, so Padfoot is no problem. Moony obviously approves enough just by being here . . . and I think Prongs would approve of Prongs Junior's decision . . ."

Draco was happy he had the approval of Harry's family, but there was something he had to ask.

"Quicksilver?"

Harry looked at him, biting his lip. "You don't mind, do you? I thought, you know, being a silver fox and all . . ."

"And his somewhat . . . mercurial nature . . ." Sirius added, grinning.

Draco snickered.

"I think it's a great name. . . Junior." He gave Harry a sweet kiss on the nose as the other rolled his eyes.

"Any jokes about 'Little Prongs,' and you will be sleeping on the couch."

Lily sighed, relieved at her son's happiness.

"Harry, I have to speak to a few people before I go back. Draco, it's been good meeting you." Giving her son and son-in-law pecks on the cheek, she walked over to speak to Remus.

Sirius grimaced slightly.

"She's right. I, too, have some business to take care of." He put a hand on each of their shoulders. "I'm glad you two have each other, you've been alone for far too long." With that, he squeezed their shoulders and walked over to where Snape was standing, partially obscured by the Invisibility Cloak.

"Severus," he said in greeting.

"Black."

Sirius bit his lip, eyes narrowed in thought.

"When a person. . . dies, they gain . . . perspective. . . they see their past as an observer. . . I have come to regret nothing more than everything I ever did and said to you. . . . So, for what it's worth, I'm sorry."

Snape's eyes betrayed nothing, though his lips may have tightened a bit.

"Why do you regret it?"

"Because I was wrong, unjustified, unfair. Because the knowledge that my selfishness and unreasoning jealousy has built a wall, keeping my heart from his happiness, is more painful than any length of time in Azkaban." Snape thought that Sirius' eyes flickered over to Lupin, but he immediately decided he'd been mistaken. Wait . . .

"Jealousy?"

Sirius smirked. "I am a Black, Severus. It is given to us to have some limited knowledge of our fate and the fate of those close to us. Jealousy." With this, Sirius walked away, leaving Snape blinking in his wake.

Sirius stood in front of Lupin.

"I . . . I didn't get a chance to say goodbye, last time."

Remus took a deep breath, pushing down tears, hands clenching at his sides.

"You were wrong, you know. I still love you." He ducked his head, blinking back the moisture threatening to spill over. But Sirius would have none oft, at, and placed a gentle hand under his chin, lifting the face until their eyes met again.

"No, Moony, I wasn't. You will never stop loving me, I know this now, just as I will never stop loving you, but you will come to love others as well. And the sooner the better-- seeing you in such pain and knowing that it's mostly my fault . . . it's not something I relish." He wiped away the tears with his thumbs. "And for now, try to keep Harry and Severus from each other's throats, won't you ?"

Remus smiled sadly. "I'm not sure either would listen to me . . ."

"Nonsense! You are the closest thing Harry has to a father, now, and you mean very much to him. And Severus. . . well, he's a stubborn old bat, but I think you'll be surprised." He leaned forward, softly kissing Remus. "I have to go now. I love you, always."

Tears streaked down Remus' face.

"Already? But . . ."

Sirius's eyes were getting suspiciously moist.

"We'll see each other again, I promise. But this is no longer where I belong, it's like being a fish on dry land. . ."

Remus drew a long, shuddering sigh. "Then, I suppose you must go. I miss you terribly, so terribly . . ."

"Goodbye, Remus," Sirius leaned in for one last kiss. "I love you."

"Goodbye, Sirius, I love you too." Their lips met one last time, tears mingling as they fell to the floor, and then Sirius faded away, Remus' arms left empty as he fell to the floor with heart-wrenching sobs.

Draco found that, like almost everyone else in the room, his eyes had refused to stay dry. Wrapping protective arms around his softly weeping husband, he noticed that even his own godfather's face seemed strangely softened. He gently shook Harry's shoulder as Lily approached.

"Do you have to go now too, Mum?"

Lily smiled gently. "Yes, Harry, but first, I must tell you something very important. On the day your father and I were killed, he wrote a letter, which was never delivered. That letter still exists, and is tucked into the back of his journal, which is currently in your father-in-law's library. If you ever have the chance to retrieve the journal and the letter, please do. And see that the letter is delivered."

Harry frowned. "But, it must be, what, fifteen years out of date? What good could it do now?"

Lily bit her lip, her eyes troubled. "Understand, Harry, Heaven is a state of being, reached when one has let go of everything except love. If one has regrets, one can not also have Heaven. That is why Sirius had to speak to Severus and Remus, so he could let go of his final regrets. But you father never had that chance. Please deliver that letter."

"You mean. . ." Harry's eyes widened with realisation. "You mean Father's not in Heaven?"

Lily sadly nodded. "He won't allow himself, no matter how anyone tries to reason with him. He is consumed with a particular regret, and only that letter being read by its intended recipient will rid him of it."

Harry nodded, snuffling. "Do you need me to do anything for you?" he asked.

"No, Harry, I've never had regrets." She smiled. "I am . . . happy, though the word hardly fits the reality. But now that I've told you this, I really do have to go. I'll always be there for you—both of you." She included Draco in her glance. "And as Sirius said, we will see each other again."

Harry pulled out of Draco's embrace, wiping his eyes with his sleeve. "Wait. Before you go, there's something I want . . ." He snuffled again.

Lily quirked a small grin, taking her son into her arms. "If there was one thing I missed, it was this," she said quietly into his hair.

Harry smiled into her shoulder, trying to memorise the feel of his mother's arms holding him.

"Thank you," he whispered, "this is all I've really wanted for so long . . ."

She hugged him tightly, kissing his temple. "We're so proud of you, Harry. All of us. Love is the only truly immortal thing, and you'll always have ours."

"I know," Harry's reply was muffled as he hugged her back. "I guess now I can let you go…"

"I will always be with you," she said, beginning to fade as Sirius had. "I am a mother who will never abandon her sons." Draco thought that at this very last, she glanced over at him, but she was gone before he could tell.

Harry drew a long, shuddering breath, wiping his tears on his eye. Draco reached out to him with both mind and arms, but before he could fully wrap himself around Harry, the other suddenly stiffened, frowning.

"Harry, what's wrong?"

Harry only cocked his head.

What are these things? Harry's voice pointed to the strange somethings in his mind he hadn't noticed until just then. Draco now frowned, reaching inward to run his thoughts over them.

"Neville, didn't you let go of the energy strands?"

Neville was confused. "Of course I did. Why?"

Harry turned to him.

Then how is this possible?

Neville jumped as he heard Harry's voice in his head.

"Harry, I swear, I let them go! I don't know how this happened!"

Metatron took that moment to clear his throat and step forward.

I assure you, Neville did nothing wrong. In fact, no one did anything wrong. This is a natural side effect of what happened.

"What exactly happened?" Harry had the sneaking suspicion this could only end with his death at Snape's hands.

I believe the term used for the past several centuries is "Coven Bond". The two of you are bound by a much stronger bond, but all the participants have been bonded to each other and to you, with Neville as the hub. As was supposed to happen.

"What do you mean, 'supposed to happen'. I've never read anything about a bond like this." Draco's brow furrowed, at a loss as to how they could possibly have missed something so important.

None of Tom's writings or notes would have mentioned it, since all the participants he meant to use were already bonded to him. And it was 'supposed to happen', because it is essential to the prospects of the future that this happen. All of you will be much stronger, now that you are a Coven.

"A Coven?" Hermione's curiosity was kicking in. "But the bonds are not just the living mortals. Is it possible for immortals, and the dead, to be part of a living Coven?"

Metatron smiled. Yes, and no. We are part of the Coven, in that you will all have a connection to us now, and the bond. But, Hermione, you're right. Magically speaking, we don't count. Before the final meeting between Tom Riddle and Harry, he and Draco will have to bring the Coven up to a full functioning thirteen, besides themselves.

"So, a Grand Coven then?"

Indeed, Hermione. Harry and Draco, their Thirteen, and each of those with a Circle of their own.

"Um, excuse me." Harry looked lost. "What's a Coven?"

Raphael answered.

Any group of thirteen people. Jesus and his Apostles, for instance-- classic Coven. But in your case, unlike Muggles, you've got a Coven bond bringing you together.

"Isn't that dangerous for Professor Snape? What if Voldemort sensed the bond?"

He won't. Metatron spoke again. Because he was wearing the Invisibility Cloak on his back during the bonding process, some of the Cloak's energy was mingled with his. As Neville wove the strands, I made sure to wrap his particular energy with the invisibility. Because you all know it's there, you can feel it. But Tom won't. He won't be able to find it no matter how he might scour Severus' mind. Not even direct questions under Veritaserum would reveal it. He is safe from discovery.

Harry nodded, swaying on his feet as exhaustion began to set in again. Draco tightened his hold of Harry, making sure that if he suddenly passed out, he wouldn't fall too fast.

The angels noticed this, wings fluttering.

Well, den, I tink dat's ev'ryting, no? We should leave so you kin go home. Haniel's smile was gentle.

"Thank you all for coming. I appreciate all the help." Harry smiled back at them.

Metatron smirked. I'm glad we helped, too. I look forward to working with you again. And then he was gone.

You boys is gonna be allrigh'. Don't you worry about a t'ing. Haniel kissed both their cheeks before leaving.

Hn. This will be interesting. Uriel's lips may have twitched into a ghost of a smile, before his wings drew back and, with a great buffeting wind, disappeared behind the Veil, which flowed forward over him, reaching out to brush Harry's arms.

Everyone took a sharp breath, remembering the warning, but Harry only felt a softness like rose petals on his skin, and then the Veil settled again, and everyone sighed, seeing him apparently alright.

Don't worry about Uriel. He's the quiet type. That he spoke at all shows how much he cares about you all. Gabriel's eyes were warm as she dissolved into a quickly dissipating mist.

Before my brother and I take our leave, we have a gift for you. Michael and Raphael stepped forward, standing before Harry and Draco. Raphael blew into his hands, fashioning an arrow out of air, which Michael took and ignited, handing to Draco.

Go ahead, I promise, the fire won't hurt you.

Draco took it, eyes wide with awe.

"What exactly is it for?" he asked.

Raphael grinned. It's a healing instrument, my specialty. It heals illnesses of the heart—just aim it in the general direction of your target, and it will fly true, healing whomever it hits. But, see how it's fletched? Three feathers for three uses, so be careful who you use it on.

It will let you know when it wants to be used. Michael added. Since we made it, it does have a limited intelligence of it's own, equivalent to an overenthusiastic puppy.

"Wow," Draco and Harry were impressed.

"I know angels have a reputation for helpfulness," Harry said, looking intently at the angels. "But this is a little beyond the norm, isn't it?

Michael and Raphael glanced at each other. We have a . . . vested interest in your continued success.

"The whole 'Battle between Good and Evil'?" Draco smirked.

Raphael seemed to shift uneasily on his feet.

Sort of. Michael admitted. One could say. What we're really interested in, though, is getting our brother back.

This is not what either boy expected to hear. "You lost a brother? How?"

Michael looked upset. Mortals forgot the difference between Evil and Darkness, making the sin of equating the two. This tore our beloved brother away from us, since human belief has a much greater impact on the truth than generally understood. We just want him back with us, where he belongs. And you two will help that happen.

Harry frowned; as though defeating Voldemort wasn't enough. "And how are we supposed to do that?"

Raphael laughed merrily. Don't worry, kiddo. It'll be as natural to you as breathing. And I think Michael's already got a guide on the way for you. They'll be meeting her, when, this summer?

Michael nodded. If not then, definitely next September.

"A guide?" Harry wasn't quite sure he understood.

The universe conspires to aid you, Harry. We've waited a long time for the two of you. Farewell for now, Son of David. And to you as well, Son of the Chief Dragon. With a flurry of flame, Michael was gone.

It was totally awesome getting to meet you guys! Raphael beamed, hugging them both close. I've got to go pester Tzaphkiel now, he gets a bit dour if left to his own devices. Bye for now! And then with a flutter of wings, the last angel left.

Draco heaved a sigh. It was over.

Quickly, the others got everything packed up, Draco having to support a half sleeping Harry. He did have to reach around his beloved to utter one quick charm, dissolving the halite back into salt, which was then swept up into the air and back into the jar from whence it came. Soon everything was packed up, except for the Portkeys back to Dumbledore's office.

"C'mon, Harry," Draco said, as the Professors disappeared with the trunk. "Let's go home."


From The Prodigal Dragon

"The greatest thing you'll ever learn, is just to love, and be loved in return."

Anyone who's seen Moulin Rouge will recognise that line. But as I write this, I am struck by its truth. There really is nothing that I have learned greater than learning to love and be loved. Because, Lily was right-- the only truly immortal thing in the universe is love. It is the "all that you can't leave behind," in the song, the one thing you take from life to life, the key to Heaven, and the cure to all illness. It is the difference between what is Good and what is Evil. It is the first thing, and the last. It created all, underlies all, and is what all returns to.

Doubt me if you want, but consider who my husband is. If anyone living knows what lasts beyond the Veil, it is he. And again and again, every message from that wondrous place is the same: Nothing is greater, or better than Love. And based just on my experience alone, I'd have to agree.