Title: Forever In Blue Jeans

Author: Parseltongue

Rating: NC-17+

Fandom: Harry Potter

Pairing: Harry-Severus

Warnings: Male to male sex, just so there's no confusion.

Beta: Rakina – Thank you for all your help and suggestions. They made me think and they certainly helped to improve the story. This one wouldn't have made it but for you. Any remaining mistakes are mine.

Dedication: For Rakina, fellow Slytherin, who saved my bacon at the eleventh hour by offering to beta this one for me when RL viciously attacked my usual beta. Thanks for curbing my overuse of commas, among other things.

Author's Notes: Snape's a possessive bastard & Harry doesn't mind. Harry's over 18 and of legal age in this story. This is AU and bears little, if any, resemblance to any of the JK Rowling's books. And yes, the song was the springboard for this piece of libidinous smut. If you are interested in the quotes, etc used they are at the end of the story.

Any similarities between this story and another are purely coincidental and I apologise in advance to any other author already published, if my work even remotely resembles theirs.

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Harry Potter, Severus Snape, etc. They belong to J.K. Rowling and to whomever she sold the rights. I am making no money from this. It is a piece of fan fiction and as such is written for pleasure – mine and anyone else who cares to read it.

Archive: Part of the From Dusk To Dawn Severus Snape/Harry Potter Fuh-Q-Fest at http://www.kardsai.com/HPSS/story index.htm

Challenge: Not here, Not now No Magic? How do Harry Potter & Snape meet for the first time?

I looked up at the sign over the door and grimaced. Ferret Enterprises. I realise that Draco had to make his own way in the world since the debacle of Lucius' involvement with Voldemort became common knowledge but I had hoped for a modicum of style from my godson. Alas, it was not to be. He had eschewed all attempts from his mother and me to enter a respectable profession and chose instead to become of all things- a commercial photographer. I laid the blame squarely at the feet of Hermione Granger. The Muggleborn witch had introduced him to the ‘delights' of photography the summer they had toured Europe and the Middle East, the usual ‘reward' for those students excelling in their N.E.W.T.s.

I drew a deep breath and entered the building. The silence as the door closed behind the cacophony that was Diagon Alley was balm to my ears.

A young witch looked up at the spill of noise into her environment and I recognised the former Miss Weasley, who was now one of the Mrs. Malfoys.

She smiled briefly before inclining her head and rising to her feet. I was caught unaware and know my mask slipped briefly as I noted her gravid state. What I wouldn't give to be at the Sorting of this child. It would be the first Weasley in Slytherin in decades I should warrant. Molly were she still alive, would have had a conniption.

“Mrs. Malfoy.”

She smiled.

“Please call me Ginny, Professor.”

“Very well….. Ginny.”

I balked momentarily but gave in for Draco was very enamoured of his wives and if I wished to maintain contact with my godson, and I did, then I would have to get along with his mates.

“Please call me Severus.”

She smiled and trapped her bottom lip between her teeth before briefly shaking her head.

“Thank you for the gift of your given name, Professor, but I well know only Draco has earned that right.”

I sniffed loudly and raised an eyebrow at her impertinence.

“Perhaps if we become better acquainted I might feel comfortable using your given name.”

I nodded.

“Very well, Ginny.”

“Draco is in the studio if you would care to go up.”

She gestured to the stairs to one side.

“Thank you.”

I walked across the carpet and placed my hand on the wooden handrail. It warmed briefly to my touch and as I placed my foot on the first step they began to move.

Draco was obviously doing very well for himself if he could afford to have a moving staircase installed.

The ride was smooth and quickly deposited me outside a wooden door. It opened as I approached and another familiar face smiled briefly at me. The second Mrs. Malfoy – formerly Hermione Granger. How Draco managed to stay married to two women – and happily so if the reports were to be believed, I had no idea. A brief shudder skittered across my skin at the thought of being intimately involved with females before I inclined my head and managed a brief rictus of smile in the woman's direction.

“Welcome, Professor, please come in. Draco's about to begin the shoot. Tea or coffee, or something stronger?”

“Coffee, if you please, Mrs. Malfoy.”

She nodded and gestured for me to enter the room.

I stepped into.... another world. One which I knew nothing about.

The room's walls were unadorned, pristine white. The starkness reminded me uncomfortably of the sterile rooms of St. Mungo's and I shied away from the memories they recalled. I swallowed hard and was about to turn on my heel and leave when they suddenly transmuted. Three of them took on a vibrant colour, one blue, one black, one blood red. The one behind me morphed into an off white the colour of ivory.

I drew a calming breath and continued to peruse the room, using the time to settle my badly jarred nerves and slow my racing pulse-rate.

Overhead were rack upon rack of strange black shapes, some round, others square, still others with a cylindrical shaft ending in a bulbous bowl-shape. I blinked as several spilled light onto the Floor and walls.

Swathes of different material were spilled casually in a large wooden barrel to my left.

“Professor?”

I focused on Mrs. Malfoy.

“This way.”

I nodded and gripped my cane more tightly in my left hand and trailed after her.

I noted her gaze flicked briefly to the cane. She had recognised it, who in the Wizarding world did not? It was a gift from Draco once his father was sentenced. He'd specifically asked me to bring it with me today. I had no idea why he had requested it of me but I chose to indulge my godson's whim. For some reason I felt compelled to explain its presence.

“Draco asked me to make sure I brought this with me when I visited today.”

I was surprised at the visible relaxation of the stiff posture before me and the quiet “Thank you”, from the rose-robed form.

She stepped to one side and I blinked. She had disappeared. And then I noted the slight difference in my perception and walked around the protruding edge of the expertly constructed screen.

The space revealed a large clear viewing area, the window taking up a goodly two thirds of the wall. Set to one side were several grouped chairs each with a side table. At the back of the room was a servery with covered platters upon it. A house elf stood to one side. The pressed linen it wore bore the Malfoy crest. I was quite surprised that the former organiser of S.P.E.W. would allow this. She noted the direction of my gaze and smiled ruefully.

“I understand the bonds between house elves and their families better now, Professor.”

“I am pleased that you do, Mrs. Malfoy.”

“Tansy, coffee for the Professor if you please.”

“And Mistress?”

“No thank you, Tansy. Apple juice for me.”

The house elf busied herself as I was gestured to a chair. I moved towards it and waited for my hostess to seat herself. She sat slowly and sighed as she did so and softly muttered a spell. I blinked as her gravid form revealed itself. Both pregnant? How in Merlin's name did Draco manage to keep two pregnant women happy and still stay sane?

Mine hostess chuckled. Obviously I had let slip my mask – yet again.

“Draco says he'd rather be married to two harridans from hell for nine months of the year instead of one for eighteen months.”

I nodded politely. Obviously my godson was irrefutably mad.

Tansy appeared at my side and placed a deliciously aromatic beverage on the table beside me as I settled into the seat.

“Thank you, Tansy.”

“You is welcome, Professor.”

Movement caught my attention and I watched as Draco walked into view. He had a camera hung around his neck and was loading another onto a stand. The youngest Creevey came into view and I inhaled sharply as I saw the way his fingers slid over the camera he was holding. I had not realised he was blind.

“Dennis processes all Draco's films. “

I glanced sharply at her.

“Professor Cassiopeia says Dennis has the ‘inner eye' and as loathe as I am to agree with her, he must have something for he manages to print everything and have it done correctly. He says he's lazy, that's why he gets things done the right way the first time. He doesn't want to use up extra energy having to do them again.”

I just manage to suppress the chuckle that statement provokes.

Mrs. Malfoy the elder (I must have some way to separate them) sips her juice as I watch the toing and froing that obviously accompanies a ‘shoot'.

I gasp and reach for my cane as Crabbe and Goyle enter the room from the right side.

“Vincent and Gregory have been exonerated, Professor. They were spies for the Light. They were questioned under Veritaserum. From your stock, sir. Both were under the Imperius curse.”

I nod, but do not relax my grip on the cane.

“Lucius?”

“Yes, sir.”

I replace the cane beside my chair. Mrs. Malfoy allows a small chuckle to escape.

“They've volunteered to help Draco with the calendar shoot this afternoon. Along with a few others you should recognise as well, sir.”

After several more moments of frenetic activity another figure steps through the doorway and looks around.

Harry Bloody Potter. The person who worked with the side of the Light for twelve long years while we strove to get rid of the blight on the Wizarding world-Tom Marvolo Riddle aka Lord Voldemort.

“I must leave, Professor. Tansy will answer your summons.”

I stand as she rises from her chair and she moves out of the viewing room and into the studio, leaving the door open behind her. As she moves slowly into the studio proper she calls out a greeting to the Saviour-of-the-Wizarding-world.

“Harry.”

Potter walks towards her and raises her hand and kisses her fingertips.

I knew of the man but had never met him. He had not the height of his father though he'd obviously inherited his father's unruly mop of dark hair. The face was not that of the scion of the Potter line, but rather showed more of the feyness of the Evans line. The emerald green eyes were a dead giveaway. Only dear Lilly had had those bright eyes and now her son had them too. Suddenly I felt the fifteen years of Banishment keenly. Oh, I had served the Light but from afar and now… now I felt the sudden yearning come rushing back, the same yearning that I had ruthlessly quashed when I agreed to serve as Albus' spy among the distant horde of evil. It lodged in my breastbone and I ached, rage burning the back of my throat and stifling my voice at what the Dark bastard Riddle had stolen from me. Fifteen years of being unable to work with colleagues I trusted and liked, watching from afar as my godson grew from a laughter-filled child to a pale and haunted man while I was unable to aid him.

I suddenly realised that since I had returned I had yet to see Draco smile, yet alone laugh.

“Unhand my wife, you cur!”

I started and looked to see Potter hugging the elder Mrs. Malfoy. My hand went to my cane once more before I realised that the woman was giggling and that there had been no true anger in the words aimed at Potter.

“Give me one good reason to, Ferret!”

The words were flung at Draco as Potter pushed Draco's wife behind him. She was still giggling too much to prevent him.

“If you don't I'll let Pansy know where you live, Scarhead.”

Potter immediately fell to his knees, hands outstretched, horror etched into his fine features.

“Oh please, anything but that!”

Draco smiled.

“Oh get up, you great prat!”

Potter chuckled and got up from the Floor no doubt pleased he's managed to coax a smile from my godson. I too, was pleased at the outcome and resettled back into the chair.

“Go and get ready, you lot. Time is money.”

Potter sketched a mocking bow at Draco and sauntered after Crabbe and Goyle.

“Dray?”

“Yes. ‘mione?”

“I love you.”

I watched open-mouthed as the stern, almost forbidding man reverted to the small child I remembered. His entire face softened and his smile was tender and sweet.

“I love you my support.”

He let his hands slip to the round swell of her body.

“And I look forward to greeting our own Hermes.”

She slapped his hands.

“No child of ours shall be labelled with that name Draco Louis Iskander Malfoy!”

Draco leant forward and kissed her.

There was movement to one side and I glanced and was glad of the private nature of the room. Potter stood in the doorway. I allowed my gaze to range over the feast given me.

Slung low on his narrow hips was a pair of dark blue jeans. The top button was left open and the v-shape of the gaping waistband offered the most tantalising, framed sight of a dark ribbon of treasure trail hair leading downwards. I licked my lips and forced my gaze to rise. There, nestled in the delightful round belly button indent was a beaded jewel barbell that winked in the light as he breathed. Flat, well-delineated muscles webbed his abdomen and I thanked Merlin for the muscle toning game of Quidditch. His pectorals were nicely defined and hairless, the nipples well formed and dusky pink. I salivated at the thought of nibbling on them. The left one held a small ring from which depended a fluttering snitch. I envied the tiny jewel. I forced my gaze higher and moaned. Around his throat was buckled an inch-wide thick leather collar. I looked swiftly at both wrists and gasped. They were encircled in black leather bands with sturdy o-rings. He was my walking wet dream and I reminded myself to purchase Draco that new expensive camera he'd blathered on about the last time I'd visited. If nothing else occurred today this vision of ‘fuck-me' Potter was worth it. I allowed my gaze to focus on his groin and swallowed heavily. The outline of a large sweetly rounded bulge made my fingers itch to stroke and fondle the hidden contents. I contented myself with gripping my wooden cane. I was surprised at the hissing that emanated from the serpent head.

“Oy! Don't you know you can get pregnant if you kiss a boy, ‘mione?”

The pair broke apart and a snort of derision came from Draco while his wife turned side on and framed her swollen belly with her hands.

“I think it's a bit too late to be offering me that advice don't you, Harry?”

Potter chuckled and shrugged. Draco pulled his wife back into his arms and curved them around her high under her breasts.

“It's a pity you don't admire the female form, Harry. Looking like that you would have hordes of witches flinging themselves at your feet.”

Potter grimaced and then smirked.

“Now, if they were wizards I wouldn't mind at all.”

My wayward libido sat up and howled. The serpent-headed cane continued to hiss and I placed it to one side.

Draco leant forward and kissed his wife's ear and then stepped back. She moved to one side and I became aware of a change in the lighting. A raw, pulsing beat began and Draco set to work.

“Over here, Harry. Kneel.”

Potter slinked over to the spot indicated and knelt.

“Ready, Harry?”

Potter drew a deep breath and nodded. He lowered his gaze to the Floor and shifted slightly. His hands went behind his back and his stance widened. From the shadows came Crabbe and Goyle. Their bodies were oiled and the leather framed their forms beautifully. The pudge of childhood had been replaced with solid well-defined muscles and they towered over Harry. I swallowed hard for in Goyle's fist was coiled a wicked black leather dragon-hide whip. Harry tipped his head back and Crabbe snicked a chain leash to the collar, the end was wrapped around the knuckles of his hand. Harry lowered his head again and slumped, every line of his body screaming ‘defeat'.

The click of the shutter was rapid and the only reminder that this was a ‘performance' and not real.

The men moved and I swallowed hard. Crabbe knelt; one knee raised and then fisted his hand in the captive's hair and hauled him backwards, cruelly arched across his massive thigh. The rapidly rising and falling rib cage and ridged abdominal muscles of the ‘victim' were clearly delineated. Crabbe bent over and from where I sat looked for all the world to be kissing his prize. Goyle's hand with the coiled whip slithered across the flat rib cage and down over the delightfully displayed groin, framing the delicate organs encased in denim.

The lighting changed and Crabbe blocked my view briefly before moving to the side. Potter's wrists were clipped together behind his back. He was kneeling facing Goyle's groin. Goyle's hands were fisted in the raven dark hair and the implications were obvious.

Another light change and this time Potter was draped over a meaty shoulder, head and chained arms hanging over the well muscled back of Vincent Crabbe. They moved once more and Potter was draped belly-down across Goyle's thighs, the jeans slipping just enough to show the enticing beginnings of the sweet curve of his buttocks. Gregory's hand slid between the material and the flesh.

“Any lower Greg and you lose that hand.”

Goyle snickered but left his hand where it was.

“I'm a happily married man, Harry.”

It was Potter's turn to snicker.

“You're both as bad as each other.”

“We try, Harry. We try.”

“Let Harry up, Greg.”

“But I like my new toy, Draco. Can I keep him, please? Can I, huh, can I?”

Harry snickered as Draco rolled his eyes and shook his head. But I noted that Goyle was assisting Potter onto his knees and steadying him as he raised his head.

“You alright, Harry?”

Potter drew in a deep breath and nodded.

“Harry! Get changed.”

A snort of amusement came from the kneeling man as he held up his cuffed wrists.

“And he calls these clothes?”

I sighed knowing that were Potter mine he'd wear little other than what he had on now, except at formal clan gatherings where he would be covered from neck to floor to deter the inevitable challenges that would come my way were his delectable form displayed to the clan members' gaze.

Potter rose to his feet and headed into the room that was obviously a changing area.

Crabbe looked at Goyle who looked at Draco and they counted together silently. They'd reached three when there was an angry shout from the change room.

“ Ferret! ”

Crabbe and Goyle both wiped the smirks off their faces and stood behind Draco who hastily swallowed the chuckle I'd heard escape.

An irate form stormed from the room and stalked across the room. The display fazed Draco not one whit which did not surprise me having been present on occasions when Lucius had vented his rage.

He thrust a handful of material under Draco's nose.

“I will not wear this!”

The hissed sibilance in his tone sent shivers down my spine. I adored the language of snakes and mourned the lack of parseltongues in our culture.

“That's fine, Harry.”

Draco's placid acceptance had Potter narrowing his eyes.

“And the catch is…?”

Draco shook his head.

“No, no, Harry, get it right. You are the catch, the prize and if you don't want to wear that costume I'm sure Greg and Vince and the others won't mind doing the shots with you naked. Personally I think you're very brave and I applaud you for baring your all for the calendar.”

My hormones were screaming their assent as well for an unclothed delight. I was curious as to his ‘assets'.

By this time Potter's grip on the scrap of material was white-knuckled and I wondered if Draco had pushed the raven-haired wizard past the point of no return.

“Harry?”

“What?”

The snarl was out before Potter had registered who had called him and he flushed as he realised he'd snapped at the younger Mrs. Malfoy.

“Ginny. I'm sorry. I apologise for snarling at you…”

“When you'd really like to wring my husband's neck?”

Harry nodded and visibly relaxed.

“Please don't. Our as yet unborn children need their father.”

Potter's feral grin had Draco frowning.

“But Ginny, I'm a good provider. You know I love children. I'm sure there'd be plenty of men willing to be your toy-boy. You could have one or two or three on the side and we could share them on a rotational basis. I'm willing if you are.”

Draco's jaw dropped as his wife actually seemed to be considering his proposal. She nodded.

“But only if ‘mione agrees.”

Draco cracked.

“Ginevra Malfoy!”

She smiled sweetly at him and batted her eyelashes as she twirled one of her ringlets around her fingers.

“Yes, Dray?”

And suddenly Draco realised he's been outmanoeuvred. His shoulders slumped and he scowled at Potter.

“Payback's a bitch, Ferret.”

Potter's grin had Draco pouting.

Hermione entered the room and taking in the scene in one glance she chuckled.

“I warned you, Draco. “

Draco nodded.

“Indeed you both did. And I did listen and …”

“Then went ahead regardless,” came the chorus from his wives. Draco sighed and nodded.

The door opened and all heads turned to see. A veritable forest entered the room.

“Neville!”

Potter's delight was obvious in his voice. He stopped and stood, hands on hips as he peered at the hovering foliage.

“You are in there somewhere, aren't you, Nev?”

The foliage dispersed to various parts of the room and a tall, dark-haired wizard moved forward to greet Potter.

“Harry, mate. Good to see you.”

And his eyes took in the toned body standing before him. I was delighted when Potter flushed a dusky pink.

Neville turned to Draco and the rest of the group.

“Greetings and felicitations from my house to yours, Scion of Malfoy.” And bowed.

Draco gasped and drew a deep breath and bowed back, the formal one required for such a greeting. Narcissa's etiquette lessons were about to bear fruit.

“Gratias, I greet thee, Scion of the House of Longbottom. May the generations of your house be fruitful and peace-filled.”

I sighed, well-pleased with Draco's faultless answer.

Both Mrs. Malfoys approached. The elder bore a gold chalice, the redhead a sliced pomegranate. I relaxed as they curtsied and showed them to Longbottom.

He acknowledged them with a slight bow of his head. In time honoured tradition Draco took the cup and sipped from it before offering it to Longbottom to show that it was untainted. The dark-haired man sipped from it and returned it to the tray as Draco took a piece of pomegranate, halved the slice and ate the glistening fruit. Longbottom followed suit. Draco offered a linen square and Longbottom wiped his lips with it.

I would find out what this man desired above all else and would gift him with it. He had proved to my godson that he was finally free of Lucius' shade, for only the head of a household and could be greeted in such a manner.

Draco's eyes were suspiciously shiny and both Malfoy wives were smiling through their tears. The elder handed the tray to a hovering house elf and curtsied to Longbottom. The former Miss Weasley curtsied also.

Potter looked on, obviously delighted, and both Crabbe and Goyle were smiling.

Longbottom gestured at the greenery scattered around the room.

“I hope you don't mind, Draco.”

My godson shook his head.

“Not at all.”

He darted a sly glance at Potter.

“I'm sure Harry is very grateful.”

Potter glared.

“What have you got planned, Ferret?”

“A few shots of you amid the foliage, Harry.”

Potter continued to glare.

“Sans clothes.”

I was surprised that Draco did not instantly combust with the intensity of the viridescent gaze scorching him.

Draco nodded at the crushed material still clutched in Potter's hand.

“That's to preserve your modesty.”

Draco smiled the moment Potter's resolve disintegrated.

“Neville would you like to stay and watch?”

Longbottom shook his head.

“Thank you, no. Padma is due to present me with our first child in the imminent future. I should be present. Keep the plants for as long as you need them, Draco. I'll send Keely over every couple of days to check on them and change them as necessary.”

He stepped back and once again bowed formally.

“Adieu, Scion of Malfoy.”

Draco returned the bow and well wishes and Longbottom departed. Both Mrs. Malfoys moved to Draco and kissed his cheek, talking quietly to him before leaving the room, chatting amiably as they did so.

“Merlin's beard, Harry. You look delicious!”

My gaze swung once more towards the direction of the change room and I grunted.

Potter was indeed ‘sex-on-legs' as Draco had said.

The tiny swathe of green material was indecent and the thong barely contained his assets.

I licked suddenly dry lips and watched as he sauntered towards the greenery at the back corner. The clench and flex of his buttocks had my hands curled into fists as the urge to skim my fingertips over the bare skin beat at me.

Harry slipped between a couple of tall palms and I could see his lips moving.

I wondered what he was doing.

“Harry don't freeze the devil's ivy. I want it curling around your body.”

“It won't keep its tendrils to itself and I refused to be groped by a plant!”

I snickered and briefly thought of scorching the vine for touching that which I desired.

Draco was smirking even as his shutter was moving.

“Move over to the palm. Use one of the fronds to cover up.”

Harry sidestepped the devil's snare and moved to the palm. He selected a small frond that gave a very tantalising view of the majority of his body and moved it into place.

Draco took yet more photos and then conjured a forked tree trunk. Harry eyed it, lips pursed.

“If you turned it on its side I could lie down on it.”

Draco nodded and immediately had it in the new position. I watched as Potter sauntered over to the tree and used a Wingardium Leviosa spell to rise to the point where he could recline belly down on the wood. He was draped artlessly so that the thong was hidden behind a small stubby branch. For all intents and purposes he seemed naked. He rested his head on his forearms as he faced the camera and I seconded the whistles of appreciation let loose by Crabbe and Goyle.

They sauntered past. Goyle had a net in one hand; Crabbe had a length of chain and a sturdy pole in his hands. They approached the tree and Goyle flung the net. It arced high and landed covering Potter. He clawed at the webbing and ‘fell' from the branch. Goyle and Crabbe pounced and Draco took shot after shot as Potter struggled amid the confining netting.

The next shot had Potter's arms secured across the pole, the leash attached to the collar and the netting tangled seemingly artlessly around his hips hiding his assets from view, yet tantalising the libido at to what might come into view if he struggled a little more.

Draco straightened up and let the camera dangle from his hand. He was frowning at Potter.

“You're leaking power again, Harry.”

There was a shimmer of gold surrounding Potter. He was indeed spilling excess energy.

“You know how little I like to be confined, Draco.”

My godson nodded and Crabbe and Goyle immediately freed his hands. Potter shrugged the pole from his shoulders and tossed it back to Goyle.

“You could have broached the bindings at any time.”

Harry nodded and sighed.

“True but the pole could have shattered and wood splinters flying through the air is not good, Draco.”

“Merlin's beard, Potter! Haven't you found a teacher yet?”

Harry shook his head.

“Albus was going to teach me…..”

Draco sighed.

“And Albus is dead.”

Harry nodded.

Dennis entered the room and walked over to Draco. He held out his hand for the camera and Draco handed it over.

“Harry you have to find someone and soon. The continual build up and dissipation without proper containment is lethal.”

Potter nodded and slowly stood up. I looked into the grey eyes of my godson.

“How very Slytherin, Draconis. You laid the bait beautifully, dragon. Touché.”

An interesting proposition and one not …unwelcome. To teach the hero of the Wizarding world to control his prodigious power. To be that close to so much raw power. The very thought sent goosebumps flitting across my skin. I could scent the power dancing on his skin, its siren call settling low in my groin. Sex and power were almost as powerful a drug as blood. To have all three…..

I drew in a calming breath and nodded once. But how to present the option so Potter would accept it and me?

Draco handed his camera to Dennis and accepted the newly filled one. He turned to Crabbe and Goyle.

“I want to get some shots of Harry with the animals I mentioned. You might like the chance to get changed.”

Crabbe paled and nodded.

“Do you want us for any more pictures Draco?”

“Yes. How about tomorrow with Blaise?”

Both nodded and turned to Harry.

“See you later, Harry.”

“Bye Vince, Greg. Thanks for helping out.”

Vincent grinned.

“Believe me, Harry, it was our pleasure.”

Gregory licked his lips.

“If you ever want to be part of a threesome, give us a call.”

Harry merely laughed as they left to change.

Draco turned to Potter and smiled.

“Thank you for putting up with being man-handled, Harry. You have no idea how desirable you look.”

Draco drew a deep breath and looked Potter in the eye.

“I have another favour to ask.”

Potter cocked his head on one side and nodded.

“I'm listening.”

“I want one or two more shots that have a more menacing touch to them. I'd like you to agree to let me take them.”

“What makes you think I won't agree?”

He'd piqued Potter's interest. The bait was dangling, now would he be able to ensnare his prey?

“These would involve a hooded cloaked figure dressed all in black. The audience would never see his face, merely the outline.”

“And me?”

The tones were butter soft and I shook my head. Potter had seen where this was heading and was about to refuse.

“I'd like you naked. I will make sure that the audience is tantalised but will see nothing untoward. No hint of your genitals, my oath on it.”

Potter hugged himself, chewed on his bottom lip as he looked at the Floor, and like Draco I gasped as his leakage soared til he was surrounded by a golden nimbus of light that teased his hair.

My teeth ached with all the power swirling around the room and I waited as did Draco for Potter's reply.

Finally he looked up, eyes narrowed and nodded.

“You have a plan. I know you well enough to call you friend and to trust you a little. I know you wouldn't deliberately put ‘mione and Ginny at risk and you know enough about me to know I'll eviscerate you slowly over a hot flame and scatter your ashes if they are hurt. What do you want me to do apart from get rid of the last vestiges of my modesty?”

I watched as the tension eased from my godson and he licked dry lips.

“I'd like to do the shots of you with the animals and then those with the figure I spoke about.”

Potter nodded and spoke softly. He'd worked some magic but what it was I wasn't sure.

“I've locked and warded the door. No-one but a house elf can enter or leave until this is finished, Draco. You might want to tell ‘mione and Ginny what's going down here so that they won't become concerned. I'll get Osiris.”

I watched Draco summon a piece of parchment and a quill and hastily write upon the vellum. Potter turned on his heel and disappeared back to the changing room.

Draco summoned the house elf Tansy and handed her the note. She bobbed a curtsy and disappeared.

Potter re-entered the room with his arms curled around two woven baskets that moved. He muttered a spell and I watched as he raised a circle of power. Nothing could cross it. Then he knelt down and opened the lid of the largest basket.

Both Draco and I flinched as from the depths rose the familiar shape of a cobra. As it cleared the rim the hood flared and the reptile scented the air. Potter held out his arms and the snake climbed his body to settle around his shoulders.

Lust jolted through me as he hissed at the serpent. A parseltongue, by Merlin! I watched as he spoke the language of Salazar and fondled one of the more venomous snakes known to mankind. He obviously adored the serpent for his hands lovingly caressed the muscular body and his voice had a gentleness to it I have known lovers to use when enamoured of each other.

Draco stood frozen to the spot, his eyes fixed on the twenty foot snake.

“Draco?”

My godson stayed still and I noted his breathing was strained.

“Malfoy!”

The commanding tone jerked Draco out of his daymare and he drew a deep breath.

“You know I have the power, Draco. You see the circle. Osiris cannot get past it and he has sworn he will not attack unless I am in danger. You are safe. My oath on it.”

Draco shuddered and nodded.

“I know here”, and he touched his head, “but knowing here”, and he touched his heart, “is an entirely different matter.”

“Draco, Nagini ‘played' with me as well. She told me in minute detail what I was in for and believe me; in this case your ignorance was bliss.”

Draco nodded and managed a weak smile before crossing to where a stand was positioned. He placed his camera on top of the stand and fiddled with the base. When he stepped back the camera remained in place.

“I'm going to use the stand or else the pictures will be useless.”

He smiled wryly and held out his hands. I could see the tremors.

Harry nodded and stroked along the spine of the glistening reptile.

“I have the same trouble around beetles now. It's a good thing Marni likes them and keeps them in check or I'd still be in St. Mungo's. I can't abide them on my skin at all.”

Draco's eyes widened.

Harry looked up and sneered.

“What? Perfect Potter can't have terrors like any other normal person?”

Draco shook his head.

“Sorry, after seeing you in the final battle facing that … megalomaniac and the demented spawn of hell he'd raised to be at his back I truly thought there was nothing on earth that you feared. There's a reason people look at you in awe, Harry. You stood before the worst things in the Wizarding world, spat in their collective eyes and … kicked them all to the deepest pit of Hades and managed to stay sane. That's one hell of an achievement, Harry.”

I watched amazed as a dusky rose colour sped across Potter's skin. He snorted.

“Give over, Draco. My ego's big enough as it is.”

My godson chuckled and shook his head.

“Harry, Neville has a bigger ego than you.”

Potter sniffed and spoke to the serpent. It hissed at him and flicked his nose with its tongue. Potter shook his head and looked at Draco.

“What do you want us to do?”

My lascivious thoughts spilled free and I gasped as I envisaged the reptile slithering around and across his body the serpentine tongue flickering across pebbled nipples and sliding through pearly pre-come before slick, muscular coils encircled a firm cock and squeezed it until seed spilled from its tip.

“Move.”

Harry sneered at the one word reply and then tipped his head on one side as the serpent spoke to him. He stilled and nodded before looking at Draco once more.

“Osiris suggested we go through our daily workout for you, but I'll need to wear something….”

Draco sighed dramatically and then nodded.

“Oh, very well, but you ‘owe' me Harry.”

“The routine takes about fifteen minutes. Want to see it first so that you can decide whether it's what you want or not?”

“Yes.”

Potter muttered a quick spell and several things flew from the direction of the dressing room. He gathered them to him and muttered another quick spell and was instantly clothed- if you could call the tight black shorts that moulded to his body leaving absolutely nothing to the imagination clothing. I could see the outline of the sweetly rounded head of his shaft and noted that he'd been circumcised. Both of Potter's forearms were covered in leather gauntlets from knuckle to elbow. His hair was tied back with a piece of leather thonging and he looked utterly delicious.

Draco's camera stuttered into life and then both Potter and the serpent started to circle each other. The cobra rose, flaring its magnificent hood and began hissing. Potter threw back his head and laughed. The dance of death continued with the cobra intent on striking exposed flesh, Potter on avoiding contact. I marvelled at his speed and dexterity as he avoided the lethal reptile and like Draco gasped as the envenomed mouth missed by the slightest of fractions on many occasions.

Eventually the great hood collapsed and the reptile dropped to slide across the Floor. Potter stayed still and drew large lungfuls of air before collapsing to his knees and allowing the snake to climb his body and drape about his shoulders.

I looked to Draco. He was smiling.

“Harry, that was awesome.”

I agreed with my godson.

Potter snorted.

“It's thanks to my daily workout with Osiris that I manage to stay fit.”

Draco bowed to the reptile.

“The Wizarding world thanks you, Osiris. You've done a mighty job keeping him in prime condition.”

Harry hissed at the serpent and the snake hissed back. Harry threw back his head and laughed.

Draco took the camera off the stand and held it out. Dennis came from the side and exchanged it for a fully reloaded one.

“Osiris says he's glad someone has finally recognised his efforts. Do you want us to go through the routine again?”

Draco shook his head.

“No, I think I've managed to get some reasonable shots. But if I do need you to come back and repeat the dance of death I'll give you a call.”

Harry summoned a saucer of milk which he placed before the cobra and as Osiris enjoyed the liquid Potter stroked the shiny skin.

Draco took even more shots and I watched mesmerised at the open and honest affection on Potter's face as he talked to the snake.

“Who's in the other basket, Harry?”

Potter drew a deep breath and chewed his bottom lip briefly as Osiris left the saucer and flowed over and into his basket. Potter banished the saucer before answering.

“Charon.”

“What sort of reptile is Charon?”

Harry stood up and walked over to the basket and flipped the top up. Immediately a crested reptile rose up and I averted my gaze and Draco shouted.

“A basilisk, Potter! Have you gone out of your tiny fucking mind?”

My sentiments exactly, in spades!

“Draco, Charon is blind. He was born without eyes. He cannot turn you or anyone to stone.”

Draco slowly straightened up from the protective hunch and glared at Potter.

“You said you wanted eye-catching snakes for the calendar, Draco. I thought Charon fitted the requirement.”

Potter was looking unbearably smug and smirking.

“Merlin's balls, Harry! I'll remember to be very careful when I ask you for a favour in future.”

Potter nodded.

“Be careful what you ask for, Draco. You might just possibly get it.”

The basilisk, a mere baby of fifteen feet gently butted its head against Potter's chest and he rubbed its eye ridges. I could see the empty eye sockets and felt a momentary pang that the creature was robbed of part of its birthright.

“You let Charon loose around your home Harry and no-one will come within a quarter of a mile of it.”

Potter continued to stroke the reptile and I gasped as it opened its jaws and closed them around Potter's wrist.

Draco choked and summoned a chair into which he promptly collapsed. He managed to reach out a shaky hand and trigger the shutter of the camera as Potter ‘wrestled' with the child of death.

I watched, aghast, as the deadly fangs slid along Potter's sweat-soaked skin and Potter giggled!

Eventually Potter hissed at the king of serpents and it obligingly returned to its basket.

I collapsed into the chair as Potter casually broke the wards with a wave of his hand and called for the house elf.

“Tansy!”

The house elf popped into sight and curtsied.

“Master Snape requires something?”

I nodded.

“Firewhisky if you please. A double.”

Her eyes widened slightly before she curtsied once more and then fetched the drink.

I accepted it from her and downed a full third of it, choking slightly as it burned my throat.

The amount of power Potter was displaying was utterly wanton and yet… so naïve. He had no concept of what was ‘normal' and I acknowledged the ‘siren call' of desire for control of this marvellous creature who talked to snakes, that slid through my blood and pooled in my groin.

Draco released the camera from the stand and banished the chair. He turned to Potter.

“Would you like to take a break or finish the last few shots, Harry?”

Potter smiled and thought for a moment.

“Finish the shots.“

Draco nodded and waited for Dennis to collect the camera and give him the freshly loaded one.

“You know Harry you could ask three times what you're asking for the calendar and still rake in the galleons.”

Potter snorted.

“I'm doing the calendar to help raise money for more scholarships to Hogwarts, Draco, and to help fund the orphanages. If the calendars are reasonably priced more people will buy them and more money is raised. Surely you see that is good business sense?”

Draco nodded and then smirked.

“You are sin personified on film, Harry. You could stand there in rags and people would still buy the calendar.”

Potter snorted.

“If I'm going to whore myself to the Wizarding world it's going to be for a ‘good cause', Ferret, not because someone wants another piece of Harry Bloody Potter, the wizard that killed Voldemort.”

Draco frowned at the bitter tones as did I. His fingers stilled on the camera he'd hung around his neck.

“I'm sor…”

Harry cut him off.

“I could have said no, Draco. Don't apologise it's unnecessary. It's just sometimes I'd like to been seen for who I am instead of what I've done.”

Draco snorted.

“Oh, believe me Harry; once this calendar is released everyone will see who you are.”

Potter shook his head and gnawed at his bottom lip.

I watched as the nimbus of power surged briefly around his limbs. Draco missed it as he was fiddling with the lens of the camera and I smiled as Potter swiftly stripped off the ‘clothes' he'd worn whilst dicing with death.

Draco disappeared from view and I watched entranced as Potter summoned a small cloth and used it to wipe the sweat from his body. Another cloth whizzed towards him and he wrapped it around himself. I sighed as it slipped around his hips wishing instead that it was my hands spanning the honey-gold skin. I watched the firm buttocks moving as Potter walked into the ‘dressing room'.

“Uncle?”

I drew a shuddery breath and managed a credible conversational tone.

“Yes, Draco?”

“May I ‘borrow' you for a series of pictures? I promise all the world will see is a hooded figure.”

I waited a few moments to be seen as actually considering the request when in fact I was willing my erection to subside. I nodded.

“Very well.”

I stood, adjusting myself as I did so with my back to my godson and collected the cane. I gestured for him to lead the way and he obliged. I trailed in his wake and walked onto the ‘set'. My cloak was removed and I turned to grasp it.

“Uncle, your crest is too well known Use this one.”

I accepted the cloak and tightened my grasp on it. The material was much heavier than mine and I glanced enquiringly at Draco.

“It's a much denser weave so neither light nor spell might get through. Your identity is to remain our secret, Uncle.”

I gathered the material and swung it around my shoulders, straightening my spine as the weight settled across my shoulders. The folds fell to my feet and swirled lazily there. Black gloves were held out by Dennis.

“Your hands are as recognisable as your crest, sir.”

I leant the cane against my body and slipped the supple leather onto my skin, shivering as the soft skin caressed me. I reached back and drew the hood over my head and then took hold of the cane.

“Merlin's beard!”

The oath had me turning. Potter stood framed in the doorway, pale and trembling, his wand held before him.

Draco sped between us, his hands outstretched.

“Harry, No! It's my uncle. Blood oath!”

Potter straightened, his eyes narrowing, his features forming into a snarl.

“Why, Draco? You know…..”

Draco shook his head.

“Harry, I swear on ‘mione and Ginny's lives that I didn't do this to bring back memories. Please, believe me. I only asked uncle to be the ‘presence' in the last few shots. I'm sorry, Harry, I didn't….”

Potter drew a calming breath and I blinked for suddenly the wand in his hand was no more. He wiped a shaking hand across his mouth and drew another calming breath.

“Mr. Potter.”

His head jerked up in surprise.

“Shade?”

I jerked in response to the name I had used for the Light.

“Yes.”

“Phoenix.”

I blinked, uncertain. He must have seen it for he muttered something and then spoke again.

“What have you to tell me, Shade?”

The tones, inflexion, distortion and cadence were as I remembered them. Each long distance communication meeting would begin in this manner, sight unseen.

“You?”

He nodded.

“After Albus' death Fawkes came to me.”

I nodded. The Order Of The Phoenix controlled the Light's contribution to the war. Whomever Fawkes bonded with was the leader.

“A day of surprises it would seem.”

“Harry, I'm so….”

Harry waved his hand.

“Forget it Ferret, it caught me by surprise is all and you do remember how well I deal with ‘surprises'?

Draco trembled and nodded.

“Sorry, Harry.”

Harry grimaced at the whispered apology. He crossed the room and gathered Draco into an embrace.

“It's okay.”

He kissed the fine, flyaway blonde hair and then released him and stepped back.

Draco's gaze was assessing and he drew a quick breath and released it.

“You sure, Harry?”

Harry nodded.

“Yes.”

Draco drew one more breath and turned back to me.

“Uncle I apol…”

“Unnecessary, dragon.”

He smiled and swallowed hard, blinking rapidly before he gestured to the centre of the ‘stage'.

“Stand there if you please, Uncle.”

I searched the ground for the ‘x-marks the spot' spell marker and strode over to it. I turned slowly and the cloak followed, swirling heavily around my ankles.

Draco rushed for the outstretched camera in Dennis's hand and began rapidly taking photos. I shifted the cane to my side and more photos were swiftly ‘snapped'.

“Harry.”

Harry approached and dropped to his knees below Draco. I looked down at him and he flung himself forward to land sprawled at my feet one hand clutched in the heavy folds of the cloak. I raised my cane automatically to get it out of his way and he dropped his head, shoulders hunched as though expecting a blow. It was only then that I realised that I could see the sweet curve of his buttocks and that he was naked save for the leather collar and wrist cuffs. My heart rate exploded and I stepped back. His other hand came up to grip the material and he was displayed enticingly, erotically so and my groin tightened.

I wanted to see his face and I fisted his hair and drew his face up. I looked down and fell into the depths of lust. Eldritch eyes gazed up at me and he panted, flushing across his cheek bones as he noted my gaze.

“You are eminently desirable.”

Doubt flashed across his features.

“Do not doubt me.”

I swooped and drew him up, spinning him to face the camera even as I folded the cloak across his body; my arm nestled across his throat. With my arm extended thus the heavy material fell across his skin, allowing only a thin stripe of uncovered flesh to show. His lips scorched the fine leather covering my hand and I gasped.

“Maestro.”

Another kiss heated the fire in my belly and I spun him round and I brought my arm across his back using the cane to hold him tight against me. We gasped as our firmed flesh collided. His hands slid around my waist and he arched back, thrusting his cock against me even as he dropped his head back. I slid one gloved hand between his pectorals and he trembled. I left my fingers splayed across his pectorals for a few moments before sliding them forwards and hooking them under the thick collar. He looked up at me and in the greatest trust I have been given in years, let go and hung in my grip.

I used my strength as it has not been used in months and slowly lowered us both to the ground. He lay unmoving as I knelt over his body and turned his head to the side, submitting. His hands were outflung and curled slightly.

I shuddered as the need to take him there and then thundered through me, and then I managed to gather the strength to rise and step back. As I drew a deep breath he slithered serpent-quick and plastered himself to my left leg, his weeping erection trailing across the shiny leather of my boot, his ribs moving against my inner leg as his hands slid up my body and splayed across the heavy material of the cloak. His face was pressed against the cloak at groin level and I thanked the deities present for the thickness of the cloak. I felt the flush of heat across my cheekbones as he mouthed my hardened cock through the material. I fisted my hand in his hair and pulled him from me. Desire-laden green eyes flicked to mine before being respectfully lowered. I gave him a slight shake.

“This is not a game.”

He swallowed hard and nodded.

“I know Maestro.”

“And you want this?”

He nodded.

“Why?”

“Your magic … comforts me Maestro. I feel …. warm and … and calm for the first time in many, many months.“

I heard Draco gasp and looked up. His grey eyes were wide as he stared at us. I glanced down and saw the fine tendrils of the golden nimbus of power leaking from my captive and swirling around them- entwining with them, yet containing them- the silver of my own power. It seemed our powers were compatible- eminently so.

“Teach me, please, Maestro.”

There was no guile that I could see but rather, a deep desire to be the master of the power and not mastered by it.

“I will consider it.”

“Thank you.”

I released him.

“Be seated, please, Uncle.”

I looked up at Draco's words and turned around, sneering with great disdain as I saw the seat behind me.

I own to pride, desire too, and turned back to Draco.

“The image you wish to present is one of darkness, of uncompromising and unlimited power is it not, Draco?”

He nodded.

I drew a deep breath and began to chant. I spun as I finished the call and strode forward.

The throne was utter decadence, the back of intricately carved phoenix feathers, the neck and crest of the bird arched over as a canopy and reeking opulence, covered in gold and glittering gems. The twin bronze braziers to either side had foot high flames dancing in them and incense curled lazily from the censer hung slightly to the left of the seat. Rich, wine-red carpet flowed from the base of the throne down the three steps of the dais to finish almost at the base of the tripod before Draco.

I sat in the throne with the folds of the cloak falling at my feet, the cane held across my body sceptre-like and gazed at Harry.

“Come to me.”

He did and crawled up the steps of the dais and laid his cheek on my boot. My breath caught in my throat and I accepted the trust given me.

“We have much to discuss.”

He glanced up at me and I nodded.

“I will teach you, guard you from harm and keep you safe.”

“Maestro, I will serve you in any way you see fit to ask of me. In all things I am your student. “

He had sealed himself to me. I wondered if he realised this.

Draco's gasp had him turning. He looked at Draco and shook his head as my godson opened his mouth to speak.

“I know what I'm doing Draco.”

“Do you, really?”

My quiet enquiry had him looking up at me. He nodded.

“Yes, Maestro. Cassiopeia had a true seeing the day before the final battle. She gifted me the vision in a pensieve. If you wish you can enter my mind and see the memory she gave me.”

I nodded and he dropped his shields.

I looked into his mind and saw …myself as I was, here and now, seated on the throne with him at my feet. The scene shifted and he knelt before me in front of the clan with my escutcheon emblazoned across his back for all the clan to see. It shifted once more and he stood by my side with the Snape consort's circlet of gold gracing his brow and my sigil ring on his hand as we were feted by my family.

I withdrew and looked at Harry.

“You truly wish this?”

“He nodded.

“Yes, Maestro.”

“Do you know anything of me, of my clan, of my people?”

He nodded.

“Once the battle was over and I had some time on my hands, I asked Hermione for help.”

He laughed and Draco chuckled.

“Hermione loves to learn and researching is as necessary to her as air. I was soon buried under a mountain of books and parchments.”

Draco snickered.

“Well, she managed to keep you quiet and entertained long enough for the healers to set you to rights.”

Harry nodded.

“And for that I am indebted to her. She kept me sane when I was on the very edge of the precipice called madness.”

My thoughts fled briefly to a lithe figure with an engaging smile that had not been so lucky. Resolutely I pushed the quiet shade to the back of my mind and looked around me. Draco, Dennis and Harry shared the distant pensive look of one who had lost someone dear to them in the same manner. I looked down at Harry as I spoke, to gauge his response.

“Then I accept your offer and gift you the clan name of Viridian. Your true name will only be used between the two of us until I have claimed you as my consort. ”

Draco grinned and Harry kissed the back of my hand. He was smiling and his green eyes were clear of shadows.

“Thank you, Maestro.”

I gestured Harry to come closer and he moved towards me.

“A year and a day you will serve me.”

“In all ways, Maestro.”

“Then we will finish here. You shall look after your serpents and we will discuss this further over a meal.”

“As you desire, Maestro.”

I looked up to see Draco smiling, obviously waiting for us to complete our dealings and finish the day's shooting. He looked unbearably smug. I inclined my head to him and he returned the courtesy.

“One last series if you please Uncle.”

I nodded and the cheeky brat levitated a leather pouch to me. I collected it and glanced inside. My eyebrows rose and I lowered it for my treasure to see into it.

He did and glared at Draco before sighing mightily and dipping in a hand. He drew the golden linkage out and found the end with the clasp on it. He offered it to me and I took hold of it. He tipped his head to the side and I snicked the catch through the collar ring. I allowed the length to slip between his pectorals and further before I fisted the remaining length and rested my gloved hand on the arm rest of the throne.

“Harry would you mind….. “

“Doing what, Ferret?”

Draco frowned at the appellation and sneered, before taking a deep breath and rushing his next request.

“Sittinginbetweenunckle'slegsfacingout.”

There was silence for a moment as we both untangled the gnarl of words and then bright green eyes looked up at me once again.

“Your choice, my Viridian.”

He smiled and slowly took his place.

Draco was slack-jawed at his compliance and needed an audible ‘poke' to remind him of the task at hand.

“Dragon!”

Draco started and then flushed, ducking his head to check the framing of these last shots.

Harry reclined at my feet facing outwards. One leg was curled under him, the other outstretched, his ‘assets' masked by a judiciously placed fold of my cloak.

He was ‘kissing' the head of my cane and trembling. I looked down and he bit his bottom lip.

“What is wrong?”

He looked at the Floor.

“Nothing, Maestro. You have a very libidinous cane.”

“Oh?”

“Yes.”

“Translate for me.”

“Here, Maestro?”

I sighed.

“Perhaps not. After our repast, then.”

“As you wish, Maestro.”

Draco took what seemed to be a multitude of pictures before finally sighing and stepping back from the camera.

“Thank you, both.”

The simple words were heartfelt and I nodded. I tapped mine own on the shoulder and he turned to me. I chucked him under the chin and he drew back, startled. I gently reeled him close and unfastened the chain.

“I will wait for you here.”

He backed away slowly and then rose to his feet and strode to the change rooms. I stood and undid the clasp of the cloak, pushed the hood from my head and allowed the weight of the material to carry it to spill onto the throne and the floor.

“Dragon, a word or three if you please.”

Draco inclined his head.

“I will have all the pictures ready a week from Tuesday, Uncle and you may screen them, though I'd be more than happy to prepare a private portfolio for you if there are any there that please you.”

“Thank you.”

Dennis approached with my cloak and I rested the cane against me as I placed it around my shoulders and did up the clasp.

The changing room opened and a stranger emerged. The mousy brown hair had slight wisps of blonde scattered through it and the plain dark brown robes were totally unprepossessing.

“Which contact lenses are you using today, Harry?”

The mouse-brown figure looked up and Draco snickered.

“Well 'mouse', that should get you through Diagon Alley unrecognised and molestation free.”

“I've sent Osiris and Charon home. I don't like to have them jostled by the unwashed masses, and the last thing I want is them spilled onto the ground. As for me, well, you're right-no-one will look twice at me and that means there'll be no riots or people getting hurt.”

Draco sidled a look at me and snickered openly.

“Well, you could always get Uncle to hex them for you. You are, after all, under his protection.”

My cane hissed some more and my newest acquisition blushed. Draco chuckled.

“I'll just bet that blasted cane said something wickedly smutty.”

He sighed, wistfully.

“Wish I could understand it.”

“I offered to teach you, Draco.”

My dragon nodded.

“I know you did, Harry, and I do have a modicum of regret that I did not take you up, but at the time I was rather busy.”

An inelegant snort followed by a snide snicker came from the ‘mouse'.

“You were too busy convincing ‘mione and Ginny that they had to marry you to be bothered with me.”

Draco straightened and his features morphed into the coldly haughty demeanour I remembered from the last time I'd seen him.

“I was the last of the Malfoys, Harry. I had to secure a future for me , one that would make sure that the taint Lucius and Narcissa had sullied our family name with by their actions, was removed.”

“Oh, hogwash! Your hormones suddenly sat up and you couldn't choose between ‘mione and Ginny.”

Draco deflated like a pricked puffer-skin, and then suddenly smiled.

“True. But you have to admit I do have two of the most wonderful women in the Wizarding world for my very own.”

I shuddered at the thought of trying to keep two pregnant women satisfied by any means.

I felt a sudden rush of power and looked around.

“The wards that had been erected have been dismantled, Draco. It's safe for ‘mione and Ginny to come back in here.”

“Thanks, Harry. You're quite useful to have around.”

A sardonic grin, a faultlessly-executed, ‘frilly' bow and my sweet morsel's caustic, “soooo glad to be of service, Ferret” had me fighting to hide a snicker.

The door opened and both Mrs. Malfoys entered. I waited as they clucked and cooed over Dragon and ‘mouse' whilst pondering my latest acquisition and how best to protect him from the clan until he could take his place by my side, and then I recalled the power he spilled so casually and snickered softly. It would be the clan that would need protection from him, not the other way around. He crossed to me and stood by my side. I looked at my godson and his wives and bowed.

“Dragon, ladies, thank you for a most entertaining afternoon.”

Draco returned the bow and both ladies curtsied slightly.

“You are most welcome, Uncle. If you would like to Floo home you may use my office. May I expect you Tuesday week to see the galley proofs?”

I nodded.

“Yes.”

I was quite looking forward to seeing what images he had captured.

Draco gestured to a half glass panelled door tucked to one side.

“My office.”

I walked towards it and heard the trailing footfalls a little behind me. Secure in the knowledge I was being followed I opened the door and walked into the room. A desk, a chair, a lamp, several tall wooden cabinets with drawers and a fireplace, and the customary Floo pot atop the mantelpiece along with some pictures furnished the room.

I turned and beckoned.

“I will need to hold you as we Floo. My wards will not accept you otherwise.”

I was the recipient of a cheeky smile.

“Maestro, I must warn you, the first time I ever Flooed I was twelve.”

I sighed and he snickered.

“To this day I still cannot keep my feet when I do. I humbly apologise for being an ungainly prat. I only hope I will not embarrass you too much.”

I reached into the Floo pot, took a handful and gestured him to my side. He stepped alongside me. I raised my cane and drew my cloak to one side.

“Closer. Put your arms around my waist and press tightly against me. Keep your face to my chest otherwise you will arrive with lungs full of soot, cinders and smoke.”

He snuggled against me and desire flared within me. We moved into the fireplace and I held him close, the cane diagonally across his back and flung the powder down into the fireplace. The green flames flared.

“Ravenhurst Manor.”

I felt the usual disorientation of Floo travel and stepped out onto the hearth in the main entrance hall of the manor. My companion struggled to stay upright and I gently propelled him to one side so we could both maintain our footing and I could brush the soot from my cloak.

“Welcome home, Master Snape.”

“Thank you Riffly. This is master Viridian. He will be staying here.”

Riffly glanced at my companion and his eyes widened and his ears flicked backwards and forwards. He bowed.

“Welcome to Ravenhurst manor, young master.”

“Thank you, Riffly.”

The quiet answer had my sedate house elf trembling and he reached out with shaking hands to take my cloak.

“A quiet, intimate meal for two please, Riffly in the conservatory in ten minutes.”

Riffly bowed once more and snapped his fingers, disappearing even as my companion muttered a quiet spell. Green-eyed temptation was once more calling my name.

The blue jeans, a Muggle item I had before now abhorred, clung to his frame, moulding to his shape and outlined his assets beautifully. The simple white shirt was open down to the third button and framed his throat sweetly, drawing my gaze to the fluttering pulse showing at the base of his throat. I had to claim him.

“I would like to leave the tour of the manor for tomorrow. I have other plans for this evening.”

“Whatever pleases you, Maestro.”

I held out my hand and he moved to my side.

“Are you a descendant of Salazar Slytherin?”

He sighed and shook his head.

“Voldemort had the skill of speaking with serpents. He tried to kill me when I was a baby but his curse backfired and he gave me some of his powers. Parseltongue was one of them. I expected the skills I had from him to die when he did but they haven't. I have retained all of them, even the scar, though it has faded.”

I turned to face him and drew him close. I nuzzled into his neck and then whispered in his ear.

“I find the language of serpents quite arousing. Do you think you could excite me?”

I nipped his earlobe and he shivered. I drew back and urged him to walk with me once more. He stumbled for the first step but soon regained his equilibrium and walked beside me.

The carpeting muffled our steps as we walked the distance to the conservatory. I would be interested to see his reaction to the lush decadence of the place. I was pleased that he could deal with silence for I abhor mindless chatter that is only used to fill the air with sound. Too few people actually enjoy silence.

As we reached the doors of the conservatory I turned him towards me.

“This is the domain of Griddly. He toils here and here alone. Beware his wrath if you thoughtlessly damage a plant.”

“I shall take care, Maestro. I've no desire to have a house elf angry at me.”

“Alohomora!”

The doors opened and lush green greeted our eyes. I looked about cataloguing the changes wrought by my talented house elf. Magical and non-magical plants were intermingled.

Green eyes catalogued the guardian plants on either side of the door and deftly moved out of the way of inquisitive tendrils. I allowed it to touch me and it retreated knowing me as one who belonged here. Griddly would have to introduce it to the newest member of the household so that it would allow him to wander through the hidden delights, unhindered.

“Cerberus Ivy. Griddly does take his responsibilities to heart. I'll remember to ask before I try to liberate any of the foliage here. I've no desire to be trapped and mauled by this watchdog.”

We stepped across the threshold and at once Griddly appeared. His leather apron was as muddied as ever, and he had various tools hanging from his work belt. Several butterflies perched on his head, their shimmering iridescence in sharp contrast to the bald pate they rested upon.

“Welcome home, Master Snape.”

“Thank you Griddly. This is Viridian. He is a member of the household.”

“Greetings, Master Viridian.”

“Greetings, Griddly. You honour us with your work.”

I hid laughter with great difficulty as my grizzled, older-than-I-am, house elf flushed bright red at the compliment given him, his ears rising and falling in a sure sign of consternation.

“Master Viridian is too kind.”

“Is there anything apart from the Cerberus Ivy that I should be wary of, Griddly?”

My house elf smiled and nodded.

“There are many poisonous things in here, young master.”

“Oleander leaves and twigs are poisonous but as long as you don't chew them, touch them to an open wound or put your sap-covered fingers in your mouth, you're quite safe to enjoy the glossy leaves and different coloured flowers they bear.”

Griddly's eyes rounded. Another kindred soul. One who knew and understood plants as I did. He bowed low to mine own and gestured to the Cerberus ivy.

“If the young master would step beside me I will introduce you to the guardian so that you may pass freely amongst the plants, taking what you desire or need.”

Viridian looked at me and I nodded so he walked with Griddly to the guardian plants. Griddly reached out a hand and the deadly vines twined around him without harming him. With his other hand he took hold of my chosen's hand and the plant slithered across to learn a new family member. Both plants gave a wriggle, rustling their leaves and slithered more swiftly over the skin of my-soon-to-be-claimed. Griddly spoke softly to the plant and it reluctantly released its captive. He looked up at Viridian and grinned.

“They likes you, Master Viridian.”

I was snickering slightly at the dubious look Harry gave the ivy.

“'Like me' as in they'll let me pass in and out of here unmolested or ‘like me' as in the next time I come this way they'll try to eat me?”

I was startled to hear a hissing and wheezing sound the likes of my silencing potion makes as it reduces. The unlikely source was Griddly. It finally dawned upon me that he was laughing.

He gasped and spluttered for a few moments before he could straighten up.

“Oh,… the young … master … is a … wit.”

Harry shrugged and Griddly finally drew enough breath to speak without gasping.

“You is fine, Master Viridian. The ivy will behaves itself.”

I was the only witness to the dubious look thrown at the ivy for Griddly had turned and gestured towards the right-hand path.

“Master's repast is this way. Please follow the dancing toadstools.”

There was a sharp snap and Griddly was gone. I looked down the path and grimaced. The toadstools were indeed dancing. There were twelve of the fungi in one long line doing of all things – the conga. I would have to have words with Griddly.

“We don't have to…..?”

The rest was lost in an unsuccessfully smothered snicker. I pursed my lips and tried to glare at my companion. It had no effect.

“Most definitely not!”

He managed to finally subdue his mirth and draw a calming breath. He smiled and bowed.

“Sorry Maestro, but I haven't seen dancing toadstools do the conga before now.”

“Neither have I!”

By now the blasted fungi were halfway up the path and in a cluster, blue dotted redcaps bobbing in unison to music only they could ‘hear'. I'd stupefy the lot and pickle them in brine before the week was out!

I began walking and Harry fell in by my side. We passed by the beds of waxy jasmine, the cloying sweetness of their small flowers scenting the air. Tall ruby-red flowers of the Belladonna lily and the delicate pink of the foxgloves were intermingled with ginger and lemon verbena.

Nearby a waterfall trickled into a pond filled with shimmering goldfish of varying shades of orange. Here and there the occasional black form could be seen. Water lilies bloomed peach pink and alabaster white, silk soft in the clear water. The red-gold fish darted to and fro and a large glistening black cat sat on the edge of the pool, front paw hooked and claws extended as it fished for a snack.

“Life and death, side by side.”

I nodded.

We rounded a corner and Harry gasped. I too, was not unmoved by the vista before us.

A fine mist of water droplets sprayed delicate Maidenhair ferns clustered around a fountain. Violets peeked over moss-covered rocks, and baby's tears spread over the ground beneath flowering tree begonias smothered in pink, orange and white clusters of blossom. Bird's nest ferns surrounded a burgeoning bush of pink, blue and mauve Hydrangea blooms. Small orange, lemon and lime trees spilled a froth of white blossom above a swathe of spread material. Piles of cushions rested against the boles of the trees. A low table sat to one side.

We stepped off the path across a bed of prostrate basil, our feet releasing the clean scent of the herb as we walked. I drew the delightful scent deep into my lungs, noting that Viridian did the same.

I approached the cloth noting that it was one of the padded quilts designed for providing comfort when one sat outside. The design was one of the constellations and I wondered which of the house elves had chosen this particular one. It remained to be seen if my companion was as observant as I.

He stopped before the colourful cloth and drew a quick breath.

“The lovers- Deneb and Vega.“ (3)

“You did well in your Astronomy studies, I see.”

He chuckled as I sat.

“There were many nights I couldn't sleep. Learning the skill gave me purpose, taught me logic and patience.”

“Wine?”

He shook his head and sat where I indicated, in close proximity to me.

“Thank you no, Maestro. I would prefer a clear head. I wish to remember everything that happens.”

I picked up one of the crystal goblets and summoned water from the chilled crock set to our left and added a wedge of lemon and one of lime to the edge.

“Chilled water?”

He nodded.

“Thank you, Maestro.”

I summoned a glass of my favourite beverage cut with a little red wine and raised it.

“Be welcome in my heart and in my house, Harry.”

The traditional blessing had him blushing.

“Thank you, Maestro. Be welcome in my body and my heart.”

He had done his research well.

We both drank deeply and I uncovered one of the dishes. Fresh, moist, plump oysters.

I beckoned him closer.

“Come; lay your head in my lap. I've a notion to hand feed you.”

He swallowed hard and turned to do as I instructed. I looked down into emerald eyes and watched fascinated as his lush, moist lips parted slightly. A small tendril of gold rose from them and I reached out and caught it in my hand. It tickled and danced in my closed fist and I placed my hand on his belly and ‘pushed' the tendril back into him. He gasped and wriggled and I was pleased to see a soft swelling begin in his groin. I lifted an oyster.

“Open for me.”

“Whenever you wish it, Maestro.”

I drew a calming breath and placed the shell against his open lips and tipped the succulent morsel inside. He chewed and swallowed. I picked up another shell and held it to his lips. His tongue darted out and slipped over my fingers and the first tendril of need burst in my groin.

He looked at me, a frown beetling his brows.

“Should I not be seeing to your needs, Maestro?”

I smiled down at him.

“You are. Anticipation sweetens the desire. ”

He flushed and swallowed audibly. I brought another oyster to his mouth and slipped it in. He chewed, swallowed and then brought his hand up to clasp mine. He drew my hand down to his lips and kissed my palm. I shivered at the moist caress of his skin on mine. I slipped free of his grasp and moved to his shirt front. My hand hovered over the first of the still closed buttons and waited. His whispered, “Please” freed me and I slipped my fingers behind the cloth and opened the button. He drew in a deep breath and the shirt gaped anew. There were four more buttons before I could run my hands over his honey-gold skin.

I plied him with another oyster and as he swallowed it I undid another button. He shivered and panted. Three buttons to go before I could touch all that enticing skin.

I reached out and lifted my goblet from its resting place and swallowed the remaining liquid.

As I put it down he wriggled and a blur of white flew past me. I looked down. He was naked from the waist up. I licked my lips and another blush stole across his features.

“I'm sorry if I spoiled your fun, Maestro, but I was hot and ….”

I placed my fingers across his lips to silence him.

“Hush. I find I have new delights to explore.”

My fingers slipped over his pectorals and dusted over his left nipple. He sighed and arched upwards. I looked down at the fluttering snitch and grasped it. The tiny wings beat against the palm of my hand as his heart beat in his chest. I tugged it gently and he moaned. I watched as his nipple firmed and rose to a peak. I let go the snitch and trailed my fingers over to his right nipple. It too, hardened under my touch. I looked forward to suckling and nibbling on the hard nubbins of flesh.

“You like your nipples played with.”

He nodded.

“Yes, Maestro.”

I tweaked the right one.

“I shall place my sigil here later, so all will know you are mine. “

“Thank you, Maestro.”

I slid my hand down his ribs and his muscles fluttered under my touch as I headed towards the firm bulge in his jeans.

I played with the jewelled bar in his navel and wondered if he would replace it for a promise ring. I gently flicked the jewel.

“I would like to replace this. Will you allow me?”

He nodded.

“Anything, Maestro.”

I brought my hands up to cup his face and looked deep into his eyes.

“I would place a silver ring inscribed with a date, a year and a day from hence. If at the end of that time you still wish it I would replace the silver with a gold one that bore your name and mine linked with our house sigils.”

He blinked as the implications sank home and he nodded.

“Please. Yes.”

I nodded and muttered a quiet spell. He smiled as a small wooden box hovered in front of me. I gathered it into my hands and then placed it on his abdomen. He twitched as the cool of the wood contacted warm skin. I opened the lid, the scent of the hawthorn rising from it made me smile and I took out the promise ring. Untarnished silver, it gleamed in the light and I summoned my wand. It flew to my hand and I laid the tip of the wand against the circle of silver.

“I, Severus Snape, eldest son of the House of Snape do hereby state my intended promise to bond with Harry James Potter a year and a day from this date. Thus do I place this consecrated ring upon my intended's body for all to see my intention and to know that he is under my protection. ‘Ware any who would come betwixt us!”

I spoke the rest of the spell that would inscribe the ring and place several protection spells upon it.

Silver tendrils of my power spiralled from my body and entwined with the golden ones leaking from my intended.

I removed the box and banished it to the vaults from whence it came and concentrated on removing the jewelled bar and replacing it with my silver ring.

With it in place I looked up to see a wide smile on my own's face. Hs fingers located the ring and slipped around and over it. I conjured a mirror to show him and he gasped. The ring glowed with a tiny nimbus of silver and gold.

“Maestro?”

His voice was husky and his fingers sought mine.

“I'm no longer hungry …. for food.”

I drew a calming breath.

“What do you desire, Harry?”

“You. Deep inside me, spilling your seed.”

I drew in a quick breath and watched as he brought my right hand up to his mouth and licked my palm. His touch sent a lance of pure lust streaking through me and I licked suddenly dry lips. His lips drew a moist line from my palm to my thumb and my groin tightened. It flared into full bloom heat when he sucked my thumb into his mouth and swirled his tongue around it, before reluctantly easing it free of his sinful lips.

“Shall I treat your silken hardness this way, Maestro?”

I nodded.

“Here?”

I nodded once more, lost in a sea of shining emerald desire.

He slipped from my lap and softly uttered a spell. I gasped as my heated cock was eased into the cool air. Harry rolled to his knees. He gazed at the thickness of my shaft and moaned. He licked his lips.

“Want this in me later.”

I nodded and then arched up, crying out as he blew a stream of air across my purple crown. This was swiftly followed by his lips slipping over the tip and I cried out again as his mobile tongue slid up and around my shaft. The pressure was exquisite. He swirled his tongue around the underside of the mushroom-shaped head and I cried out once more, arching up into his touch as he rubbed the sensitive spot. I was gasping as he slipped his tongue into the eye of the crown and when he hummed I sobbed. His mouth was sin personified and I could not get enough of it.

He slipped his lips over the tip of my cock and slid down taking more of me into his mouth before grazing his teeth very lightly along the shaft as he slipped back up towards the tip. He did this several times and then moved back up to plunder the juices spilling from the eye.

He was panting and leant back. He pulled in his stomach muscles and slipped the button free at the waistband of his trousers. He lowered the zip a little and sighed as the constriction around his shaft was released. His cock was firm and stabbed his belly, the eye smearing liquid across his skin.

“Come to bed, Harry?”

I held out my hand and he grasped it.

“Yes.”

I closed my eyes and Apparated us both to my bed. We landed on it in a tangle of limbs. Harry pulled back and stood up and dragged at his clothes. He toed off his shoes and pushed the jeans down around his ankles. I noted the lack of underwear.

“No underclothes?”

Harry blushed scarlet.

When I went to get re-dressed they were gone. I'll pay Greg and Vince out later.”

He shrugged.

“I shouldn't have left them on top of my gear.”

He risked a cheeky grin.

“It's saving time this way.”

I nodded and muttered a quick spell. My clothes were gone and I reclined on the bed. Harry licked his lips and walked towards me.

I reached out and stroked his cock. He moaned and swayed on his feet.

“I'm so close and I want this to last.”

“I have a spell that will help ….”

He nodded and I spoke the words that would allow desire to reach fever-point but still prevent him from reaching orgasm until I released him. He sighed as it took affect.

“You will curse me later.”

He smiled and stood beside the bed. I sat up and held out my hand. He reached out and grasped it. I waited until he was firmly in my grasp and then moved swiftly. Before he realised it he was on his back on the bed with me looking down upon him.

“Mine!”

He nodded.

“Yours, Maestro.”

I slipped one foot between his legs and urged them to open. He did so readily and I moved between his widespread legs and slowly lowered myself onto him. We gasped as skin met skin and our cocks slid along each other. Hs hands moved to my shoulders and slipped over them. He drew me closer and looked up into my eyes.

Slowly I moved nearer still and his lips parted. I licked along his bottom lip and he clutched at me and whimpered. I slipped my tongue into his mouth and he opened to me allowing me to take possession. I mapped it slowly, savouring the unique flavour of him.

When I had sated my knowledge of the inside of his mouth I drew back. Dazed green eyes looked up at me and he sighed.

I moved to nuzzle at his jaw and he shifted allowing me to see the trip-hammer pulse point beating in his neck. I lowered my head and licked at it before quickly slipping lower towards his inviting nipples, for if I stayed too long at the sweet juncture of his neck, the siren call of his power-rich blood would weaken my resolve and I would end this feast of my senses way too soon.

He moaned as I breathed on his left nipple and when I took it into my mouth he lurched and cried out. I suckled briefly on the swelling flesh and once it had risen to its fullest prominence I carefully took it between my teeth and worried it gently before releasing it to kiss the swollen skin. Harry moaned and his hands tightened on my shoulders.

“Ah, sweet Merlin, Maestro….”

I kissed the skin between his pectorals and he gasped. He was so responsive. I turned my attention to his right nipple and noted its pebble-hardness. I blew across it and he cried out, his fingers gripping with an intensity that would leave bruises on the morrow. I drew back and he arched his spine offering his sweet flesh for further torment. I swooped and suckled the peaked hardness with an intensity that had his head threshing from side to side and a continuous litany of moans, whimpers and broken pleas spilling from his mouth. I mouthed the nubbin and he gasped and panted and then curled his legs around my hips.

“Take me; fill me, please, oh, please. I need you in me, please Maestro.”

I eased back from the swollen nipple and waited for him to settle. He did not. His hands slid from my shoulders to tangle in my hair and he looked at me and spoke even as he bucked against me.

“I am yours. Take what is yours. Mark me with your scent and your seed. I am aching with the need to be filled with your cock. “

He muttered a combination of spells and shifted under me, pulling his legs back towards his shoulders and holding his body open. I gasped as I realised he was indeed ready for me. The entrance to his body was slick with lube and the bud of muscles slowly relaxing, opening wider. I shifted so that my cock-head was resting against the opening and moved slowly forwards.

I slid into silken heat and sighed, allowing my weight to pin Harry to the bed as I entered him fully. He moaned and locked his heels in the small of my back. I panted as his muscles contracted around me gripping my cock tightly before releasing.

It was whilst I was buried to the hilt that I realised that the snake-head cane was resting atop the bed-head in its usual place and was hissing once again.

I thrust down into liquid heat and Harry moaned. I repeated the slow thrust and finished it with a circling of my hips. Harry jolted, crying out, his eyes widening. I'd hit his prostate gland. He gasped as I repeated the action three times. Sweat dewed his skin and a tiny bead slipped from his neck to pool in the little indentation at the front of his throat. I leant forward and licked it, my hips and tongue moving in time. Harry sobbed and panted.

I drew back and stilled, drawing Harry's attention to me. Dazed green eyes slowly focussed on me.

“Speak to me of libidinous canes, snakeling. If what you say pleases me then you shall be ridden to satiation.”

Harry swallowed hard. The cane resting atop the bed-head began hissing once more and Harry began translating, his voice husky from the erotica spilling from the serpent-head.

“Sweet flesh awaiting impalement! Beg me to take your submission. I shall sheathe my slick cock deep in your liquid heat; take my pleasure as you writhe beneath me, striving for release. Sweat-slick skin sliding against my heated flesh as you gasp your needs to me, crying out as I thrust languidly in your hot depths, playing idly with your nipples. As you strive to gain your release you inflame my pleasure and take me deeper into your tight grasp. I shall plunder your sweet hole and incite your passion as I find the hidden spot inside you and caress it endlessly until you call me master and convulse around me accepting the seed which I spill deep within you, marking you as mine, only mine! “

As he spoke I began to thrust again, slowly, rolling my hips with each downward move to hit his pleasure gland. His gasps and shivers told me I had found his sweet spot. I slid my hands up his arms to interlace his fingers with mine and pin him to the bed. I lapped at the base of his throat, marvelling at the triphammer pulse–point and the salt coating his skin.

“Accept me deep into your body, caress my heated flesh with your inner muscles, grasp it firmly and release it, bend willingly to my needs, open yourself so I may deepen my stroke and I shall reward you by caressing your hidden treasure, give yourself to me and I will send you flying.”

I nipped at his jaw line.

“Please…”

“You do.”

And I began to make action meet the words. Harry moaned and writhed and gasped as I thrust into his body. The charm would deny him release until I spilled inside him.

I roused him to babbling incoherency and marvelled at his willingness to allow me to torment him so.

I eased back and then began to mouth his nipples, denying him respite. He moaned and pleaded and cursed as I worried them back to throbbing, heated, swollen sensitive nubs and screamed as I suckled them once again. His writhing sent delicious spears of pleasure arcing through my groin. His breath was sobbing as I drew back and looked into lust-crazed eyes. Raw need stared back and I smiled. I spelled his hands to the bed and grasped his hips.

“And now my Harry, mine own, the thorough fucking I promised.”

I continued to thrust into him slowly at first, then more swiftly, making sure to hit his prostate every thrust. He mewled and it resonated deep in my balls. This was what I had wanted, his total submission to me. He lay open, accepting my pounding and as I felt the urge crawl from the depths of my soul I gathered him tightly to me and allowed the surge to break over us. I screamed as orgasm shattered me and my hips bucked relentlessly through the release of my seed. It pulsed from my body, filling him and slicking his channel further and still I spilled. He keened as orgasm took him, his muscles clamping around my shaft and squeezing. He milked the last of the seed from my cock and spilled his pearly essence between us slicking our skins further. I rode out the spasms of his internal muscles crying out as my tender shaft was relentlessly massaged. The pleasure rose and rose and crested and I slipped into darkness as his keening died away.

I awoke to cool air across my back, raging thirst and a bone deep contentment I had never known before. I was still atop my green eyed imp though no longer buried in his heated depths. I reached out a trembling hand and gathered my wand and spelled us clean, and the bedding as well. I rolled to one side and groaned as pain sliced across my lower back. I summoned several pain killing potions and swallowed one. The other I opened and dripped slowly into the slightly parted lips below me. I stroked the tender skin of his throat to encourage him to swallow and stifled the urge to suckle at the pulse-point so trustingly exposed to me.

Drop by drop I fed him the potions and waited for his awakening.

A slight sigh, a tiny twitch across lidded eyes and he licked his lips before his eyes slowly opened. I looked down and waited for the terror to fill them. He smiled and his hand rose, trembling to stroke down my cheek. I risked a quick kiss to his curled palm and he gasped.

“How long may I stay with you?”

“For as long as you desire to, Harry.”

He shook his head.

“You claimed me. I am yours, Maestro.”

“I would have all of you.”

“You do, Maestro.”

And he turned offering me his neck.

I gasped.

“Are you sure, boy? Once claimed you will never be free.”

“There is freedom in belonging to you. Mark me with your crest, Maestro so all shall see that I am claimed, please.”

The soft plea robbed me of words and I could only nod.

“Fill me with your seed as you claim me, please, Maestro.”

“Harry, my heart, our coupling was vigorous. Your muscles ….”

“Then let me take your seed as you place your crest on my back, Maestro.”

“There is great pain…”

“I know. The pain is worth it if I am marked as yours, Maestro.

Rich the treasure,

Sweet the pleasure –

Sweet is pleasure after pain.”

“You are determined to be mine?”

“Yes, Maestro.”

I smiled, allowing my canines to lengthen and showed him. He swallowed hard but stayed unmoving.

“There are three stages to being fully claimed. My sigil in your left pap to signify your heart belongs to me. My marks on your throat to tell all that you are mine by right of blood and last my scutcheon across your back to proclaim you claimed and marked as a member of my clan and due the protection of the clan in all things. Do you wish for all three signs Harry?”

He smiled and licked dry lips.

“With all my heart, Maestro. I want no other but you if you will have me.”

I nodded well pleased with his answer. I flicked the ringed nipple and his breath caught in his throat and he arched up towards me before relaxing back on the bed-linen.

I shall place my sigil here, then feed and finally mark you. You will scream for me Harry.”

He nodded and moved to take the snitch from his nipple. I shook my head and he lay back. I used my wand to summon my sigil. I placed the carved box of apple and rowan woods in his open palm and he curled his fingers around it to hold it in place. Then I placed the tip of my wand against the snitch and broke the sealed ring. I moved it from him and placed it in his hand. He smiled as he curled his fingers around it. I placed my hand on the box containing my sigil and it opened to me. I withdrew the golden marker and placed it on the end of my wand. I spoke the spell and it flew from my wand to his nipple slipping into the ready-made hole. Another softly spoken spell closed it. Harry gasped and flinched as the metal warmed and fused. Only I could place the sigil on his body and only I could remove it.

“The first of my marks. It is to be seen at all times for a year and a day. You will be allowed a cloak to protect yourself from the cold. The beauty of a cloak is that it can instantly provide protection for your back as you are plundered or opened to reveal your marks. Accio lube.”

The jar sped to my outstretched hand. And he offered me his throat; he was truly a pearl of great price. I struck immediately and infused his body with the spice of the vampire – a voluntarily released hormone that would rampage through his system and gift him with sexual euphoria. Any Human with it in their bloodstream would happily allow a Vampire to drain them of all blood and die on a sexual high. It would sweeten the pain of his claiming.

As I drew the blood from him his magical signature tore through me. Merlin! He was powerful! He was intoxicating and I drew back, gasping, my fangs aching with the desire for more of his life-spice.

He looked up at me, his irises almost eclipsed by his pupils. He was flushed with the fever and would obey my every command. I held out the jar of lubricating gel and removed the lid.

“Prepare yourself for me.”

His breath caught in his throat and a delicate blush stole across his cheekbones. Gold tendrils of power spilled from his mouth and nose and I uttered a containment spell. Entrapped between us it swirled and eddied and where it rippled across our skin desire flared. He writhed as I skimmed the skin of his belly and when I touched my promissory ring he arched and sobbed. I petted him up onto his knees and once more held out the jar. He dipped his hand in the pot and drew forth the viscous gel before he knelt facing away from me. He parted his cheeks and I bit back a gasp at the swollen entrance to his body. I was glad that I had summoned the pain numbing gel. He sighed as his slick fingers slid over his hole and sighed again as he penetrated the swollen muscle. I made sure to coat my cock liberally and watched, libido rising as he prepared himself.

I tumbled him to the bed and pinned his shoulders to the linen. He opened his legs and raised them, displaying his willingness to me. I positioned myself at his entrance and thrust home, wringing a scream from his throat. I smothered it and forced him to accept my tongue in his mouth. He acquiesced and relaxed against me. The trembling abated and I knew the numbing potion was taking effect on his abused tissues.

When I released his lips he turned tear-spiked eyes to me and managed a watery smile.

“Thank you, Maestro.”

I urged him onto his belly, maintaining my connection with him and pulled him up onto his hands and knees. He moaned as I fisted his cock. It was hot and firm within my grasp. I fisted him several more times and he moaned.

“Claim me, Maestro, please.”

I uttered the gloving spell that would titillate him whilst I etched my crest into his skin. As my scutcheon was completed he would explode into orgasm.

He rocked on my shaft and I groaned as his youthful muscles clenched around me. I summoned my wand and began the incantation. I placed my wand tip at the nape of his neck and drew it down his spine finishing with it in between his buttocks at the entrance to his body. As I finished I cast the wand from me and held him tight against me as I spoke the activation word.

He screamed as desire and pain warred for dominance. Pleasure won and he begged me to fuck him senseless.

I obliged, triggering his orgasm as mine hit with the completion of the crest. I slumped across the fanged serpent of my house and we collapsed onto the bed.

I withdrew carefully and watched as a tendril of blood seeped from his body along with my seed. I swore in several archaic languages and summoned my wand. Once I had it in my hand I muttered several healing and cleaning spells and wrinkled my nose at the rank odour of sex and sweat that still clung to our bodies. Dragging a stained sheet across both our forms I summoned Smythly.

He appeared, only the widening of his eyes betraying his surprise.

“Master desires….?”

“A warm bath in the dragon room. Add to it three of the purple vials from the fourth shelf in the cherry wood cabinet in my second storeroom. Return when all is in readiness.”

Smythly bowed and with a snap of his fingers left. I looked down at the lax head lolling against me and kissed the crown of dark hair. So much. He had given me so much and I cursed the tradition of a year and a day before I could claim him as my consort. He stirred slightly and moaned. I held him close and stroked down his back. His breathing hitched a little and then he opened dazed eyes.

“Maestro?”

I nodded.

“You are mine, Harry. You are claimed. I will present you to the clan tomorrow, and then we will begin to work on taming your spilling power.”

He snuggled closer.

“Yours?”

The plea slid straight to my power and it surged washing him in silver tendrils and binding him tightly for a few seconds.

“Mine,” I avowed and his golden tendrils slithered and twined around mine before the entwined ribbons of power slipped free of him and swooped over both of us.

A Muggle said it best:

‘Doubt thou the stars are fire;

Doubt that the sun doth move;

Doubt truth to be a liar;

But never doubt I love.

Story Notes.

‘Doubt thou the stars are fire;

Doubt that the sun doth move;

Doubt truth to be a liar;

But never doubt I love.

Hamlet act 2 Scene 2 Line 115

William Shakespeare

(1) Rich the treasure,

Sweet the pleasure –

Sweet is pleasure after pain.

Dryden—Alexander's Feast -1. 58

(3) The Magpies And The Milky Way . An even more romantic story about the stars of Lyre comes from both China and Japan. It is called the Magpies and the Milky Way. The story tells of a beautiful young princess, daughter of Sky God, who was the most skilful weaver in the land. One day she glanced up from her loom and saw a herdsman. The two fell in love at once.

The princess begged her father to allow her to marry the herdsman and finally Sky God agreed. The two were married and were so much in love that they began to neglect their duties. The princess did not weave her special cloth and the herdsman neglected his animals. Sky God decided that the two must be punished.

Sky God placed the princess and the herdsman in the sky on opposite sides of a river of stars (the herdsman is represented by the stars of Aquila.) The two could see each other but neither could cross the river. The two lovers had no choice but to return to their work, but both were very sad.

Seeing his daughter so sad was too much for Sky God and at last he took pity on them. He decided that the two could be together one night a year, on the seventh day of the seventh month, if they could find their way across the river. On that one special night, a group of magpies came and formed a bridge across the river for the princess to cross and the two could be together for that one night.

Tree lore

In Celtic times the trees had attributes. For many those still hold. Apple is for love, hawthorn for protection, love and marriage and rowan is for protection.