Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Freedom In Chains	By : TaintedSensibly Category: Harry Potter AU/AR > Slash - Male/Male Views: 29614 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 7
Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter. All original characters and plots are mine. No money was made with this story.

Chapter List
- 5
- 6
- 7
Untamed

May 24^th, 1995

Zabini Manor, Italy

A crack signaled the arrival of a house elf. It had a beatific smile on its face. “Master Armand, Mistress is home! She wishes to see you in the sitting room!”

“Thank you, Ryrie. I will be there momentarily,” he answered calmly. Once the elf was gone, however, Armand loosed a soft sigh and stood gracefully to his feet. He straightened his shirt as he considered his attire. He wore comfortable black slacks and a navy blue button down, which was presentable at least, once he put shoes on his bare feet and twisted his hair up into a bun or braid.

Severus shot him a smile. It was so rare to see the younger man nervous. “You look fine. Go see her.”

Armand inclined his head and took his leave. He made a quick stop at his room to fetch shoes and did his hair quickly while walking to meet his mother for the first time in four years. He didn’t know what to expect. His mother loved him dearly, which meant she had worried about him constantly, especially considering the dark times. He hadn’t contacted her once since he left with Severus. She was bound to be at least a little furious.

Gloria was just as intimidating as he remembered. She stood by the fireplace in opulent, dark purple robes. Pearls the size of grapes wreathed her neck and hung over her torso in layers. Her long hair was braided in hundreds of tiny braids and wrapped up in an intricate knot.

“Amadeo!” she called in joy. Gloria moved to meet him halfway across the room and wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug. “Oh, I’ve missed you. I don’t think I’ll ever forgive you for going away so long.”

“Madre,” Armand murmured. “I apologize for not contacting you.”

Gloria pulled away, her hands clasped on her son’s shoulders. Her tearful expression had melted to one as hard as steel. “And what excuse do you have to give for not contacting your mother?”

Armand lowered his head. “It was dangerous.”

Her hand tightened as fury rushed from her gut. “How dare you put your life in danger! You are precious to this family, and you left us to sit around in agony of never knowing your fate! I never thought you could be so thoughtless and cruel. Especially considering what this family went through when you were younger! I hope it was well worth it, Armand! You will not be leaving my sight again for a very long time!”

xXx

Hale shot Laine a worried glance as they were coming downstairs for breakfast. They could hear the raised voice of a woman coming from the sitting room and she sounded furious. Laine’s whole body went loose, ready to fight, and his eyes narrowed. Stay here, he ordered his boy before slowly creeping forward.

Laine slowly slid around the corner to see a tall, older woman berating Armand. The way Armand stood with hunched shoulders told Laine he expecting a blow and it set his teeth on edge. Worse, Armand’s hands were clasped at the small of his back, indicating he was defenseless and wouldn’t, or couldn’t, strike back at the woman.

Laine’s instincts strummed with urgency. Armand was the only one in this house Laine trusted to any real extent. He was the one who calmed and soothed. He understood Laine enough to help him do wand magic. He didn’t try to hem Laine in or control him, and he was gentle with Hale. Seeing Armand so vulnerable in front of this aggressive woman made Laine instantly furious.

“It’s not surprising he didn’t contact you if he had to listen to this when he did,” Laine hissed, stalking forward.

Gloria stared, wide eyed. Magic thrummed around the teen. It wasn’t quite visible, but its angry presence could be felt in the air. Armand didn’t move an inch from his position, although Laine could see his body tense up. He stroked a gentle hand down Armand’s back in reassurance, letting him know his fury was for another. Armand felt something warm shiver through him at the touch.

Gloria’s eyes narrowed in fury. “How dare you speak to me in such a tone!” Her magic rose in response to the impertinent teenager standing with his hand on her child and her voice lowered to a dangerous growl. “This is my son and my home. I do not know who you are, but if you do not excuse yourself immediately from this private conversation, I will see you harmed in ways only I am famous for.”

“Make me,” he spat, reaching for a knife.

Armand sensed his mother had reached the peak of her temper and was about to expel Laine from the house. He could feel it in the wards he was keyed to. Gracefully, he dropped to his knees, successfully drawing his mother’s attention. His hands were still clasped behind his back, but his head lifted revealing an expression that was as serene as ever.

“I have given my comrades my welcome, Madre. Do not force them to leave.”

“Armand!” Gloria hissed furiously. “Get up this instant!”

Laine moved between the kneeling man and the furious mother, but before he could say anything Armand spoke first.

“I will go with them, Madre, if you send them away.”

Gloria felt tears fill her eyes. Her anger dispersed under a feeling of pain and she shot Laine an agonized glare. “Do you enjoy the power you have over my son? Does it give you pleasure to see him reject his family on your command?”

Laine bore the accusations with unconcern. He didn’t care in the slightest what other people thought of him, so he had no urge to set the woman straight. The only one who mattered to Laine was Hale.

Hale wasn’t so uncaring. His – dismay protectiveness – filled the bond, and Hale stepped into the room, hands balled into fists and his green eyes flashing. “That’s not true! Laine doesn’t enjoy those things at all, and he never told Armand anything like that! It’s my fault Armand was gone so long. He was searching for me!”

It wasn’t your fault! Laine said harshly into Hale’s mind, hating the rising guilt in his charge. He spun and stalked up to the teen, abandoning Armand. Hale would forever be his priority, and right now he was angry that Hale had entered the room with a potential threat. Worse, if Armand and his mother didn’t reconcile, Hale would blame himself. Laine reached out and grabbed a fistful of Hale’s hair in a punishing grip. I told you to stay out there, didn’t I? You disobeyed me.

remorse worry

Armand rose to his feet, sensing that the balance had shifted. Laine was on the defensive, which made the teen more dangerous not less. He had to defuse the situation quickly. “Things are not as they seem, Madre. Please don’t make any hasty decisions.” Armand faced the teens, regretting the situation and the stress it had put on the boys. “Let me introduce you. Madre, this is Laine Lukas and Hale Matthews. Laine, this is my mother, Gloria Zabini.”

Gloria’s expression closed off to cover her shock when she recognized that famous scar. Harry Potter was in her home! It made her take a mental step back. Clearly she didn’t understand the situation. “I apologize for speaking out of temper,” she allowed, more to her son than to the teen who had offended her so. “You may of course stay. Be welcome in my home.”

Laine gave her a grudging nod and pulled Hale from the room.

Armand turned to face his mother once more. “I have much to tell you.”

Gloria gave an exhausted sigh and guided him to the couch where they could sit together. “Ryrie!” The elf appeared with a crack. “Bring breakfast for two.”

“Yes, ma’am,” the elf answered and moments later they had the requested refreshments.

“Now tell me,” Gloria demanded as they began their meal. “What exactly have you gotten involved in this time?”

xXx

Laine dragged Hale back upstairs to their room. He pushed the younger teen inside and shut the door behind him. When he turned back around, Hale was on his knees, tears streaking his face.

“I’m sorry, Laine!”

Laine sighed. Now that they were alone and relatively safe, his anger faded away. Hale had disobeyed, but Laine could feel the tension in his charge. It wasn’t punishment that Hale needed at the moment. The stress of the situation was catching up to both of them, and if it wasn’t relieved soon, it would become a serious problem. He needed affirmation.

“Strip,” he ordered lowly, holding Hale’s eyes.

Hale scrambled to his feet and obeyed quickly, expecting punishment. His T-shirt, jeans, and underwear were soon discarded around him on the lush carpet. He stood with his back perfectly straight with his head ducked down. A faint tremor ran through his muscles as Laine’s gaze caressed his naked skin.

“Go prepare a bath.”

surprise - Hale’s head lifted as his eyes widened. A bath? He darted a look up at Laine’s face, hoping for a clue. When he saw the older teen staring at him expectantly, he swallowed hard. “Yes, Laine,” he answered and hurried into the bathroom - nervousness curiosity

Laine undressed at a much slower pace. He needed the time to prepare himself. He stretched his shoulders and let all the concerns about magic, the war, their father, and all the people around them fall away. All that existed was Hale. Laine took several deep breaths, his eyes closed. Memories from his slavery always hovered beneath the surface of his mind and he pushed them even further down. This was Hale. He adored the younger teen beyond comprehension.

Hale needed to feel useful or he was prone to guilt and feelings of worthlessness. His usual tasks – cooking, cleaning, and tending to the apartment – had been impossible since arriving at Zabini Manor. Hale needed this time with Laine to reassure himself he still had something to offer in their relationship, that Laine still wanted and needed him. It was his job to make sure all of Hale’s needs were met. He wasn’t about to fail now. Anything he needed, Laine would provide.

He was naked by the time he entered the bathroom, and he found Hale kneeling beside the tub, steam rising from the water as the massive thing continued to fill. Laine smiled his approval and ran his hand through the messy, dark locks. He stepped into the tub and sat down into its warmth. The water was the perfect temperature, and he let a groan of pleasure escape his lips to reward his charge. A burst of pride and happiness was his answer. Hale’s eyes were still wide, but the nervousness had disappeared completely.

“Wash me,” Laine ordered softly and closed his eyes as Hale practically sang with joy excitement.

Hale’s hand trembled as he was granted permission to do something he’d always wanted to do. He had Laine in front of him, his body bare. Gently, reverently, Hale grabbed a wash cloth and soaped it up. He watched with wide adoring eyes as he ran the dark blue cloth over Laine’s shoulders, across his throat, down his hairless chest. Hale had always admired and respected Laine’s strength. His protector had always been more capable, more athletic than any other sixteen-year-old Hale had ever met. And now he could touch those lean, hard muscles of Laine’s abs and arms with only a thin bit of cloth between their skin. Hale shivered and tingled as he traced every hard line.

Laine couldn’t remember the last time he’d had a bath. It had definitely been over four years at least, before they went on the run. The sensation of water lapping at his skin, of Hale’s touch, sent sparks and tingles throughout his body. He cracked an eye open to look at his charge. He’d never bathed with Hale before. The teen was beautiful. Hale’s face and neck was flushed with the heat from the steam, and Laine enjoyed the way Hale’s muscles strained slightly as he had to stretch to reach Laine from his position on his knees.

Laine lazily watched every movement, every expression, as he lay relaxed in the warm water. “Take your glasses off.”

Hale set his glasses aside and Laine sighed in pleasure at being able to see those beautiful green eyes without hindrance. At the sound, Hale’s blush deepened and happiness flooded the bond.

“You may wash my hair,” Laine said softly.

Hale closed his eyes, the permission sending a physical thrill singing down his nerves. “Thank you, Laine,” he answered reverently. Gently, his fingers wove through Laine’s hair, massaging his scalp. The subtle scent of vanilla further seduced their senses.

Hale began to pant softly. Long black lashes gently brushed Laine’s sharp, angular cheekbones with every slow blink as Hale rubbed gently at his scalp. Laine was so beautiful when he let his guard down; the arched brows, the long nose, the soft glowing skin. Hale’s hands gently dipped down to caress the hardened pink buds of Laine’s nipples, and Hale shivered as it drew a soft, breathy moan from Laine’s perfect lips. The slightly parted mouth looked pouty once the hard edges of Laine’s expression were smoothed away.

Hale settled back on his knees, trembling. He needed more somehow. It was as if something had been building within him and it had left him unsatisfied now that the bath was finished. Self-disgust scorched his veins and Hale wrapped his arms around himself tightly so that he wouldn’t taint Laine’s perfection. He knelt there, naked beside the tub, and felt tears burn his eyes. Laine had given him something precious. Only he was allowed this close to Laine, only he was trusted to do something like this, and here Hale was being ungrateful!

Laine frowned as the pleasant haze shattered under Hale’s self-loathing. He reached over and firmly clasped the back of Hale’s neck, drawing a surprised gasp from his charge. Green eyes lifted, blazing with pain. Laine knew what he needed. “Get in the tub, Hale. You’re not done yet,” he said gently but firmly.

Hale scrambled into the warm water, desperate. Laine caught the trembling, uncoordinated body and gently shifted Hale so that he was sitting sideways over Laine’s lap. As Laine began to gently wash Hale’s hair, the darkness infecting Hale’s soul broke away and sank out of sight once more. Hale was consumed with gratitude pleasure love.

The pleasant haze returned tenfold, and Hale shivered under every gentle caress of Laine’s long, slender fingers. He could barely contain himself. It was only this last year when Hale had turned thirteen that Laine had allowed them to rub against each other, and it had only happened when they were both fully dressed. Hale had thought nothing would feel as good as that, but the sensual feel of so much skin touching made Hale nearly delirious. The thought that he didn’t deserve this scattered into oblivion as Laine leaned forward and licked a long line along Hale’s jaw. Hale arched his back with a low, loud moan.

Everything was peeled away in that moment. They bared themselves to each other fully and completely: Hale’s compulsive need to be reassured of being loved, wanted, and safe; Laine’s need to protect and provide. Every desire was recognized and embraced. It was the most liberating feeling in the world to let all their mental barriers down and still be accepted.

Laine turned his charge so that Hale was facing outwards, his back to Laine’s chest. Laine’s free hand splayed across Hale’s thin stomach while the other hand captured Hale’s fragile wrists, restraining them. Laine tangled their legs together purposefully; Hale couldn’t move now even if he wanted to. He was held safe, secure.

Hale tilted his head, exposing his neck and submitting completely. Laine nudged Hale’s head to the side with his cheek and nipped and bit lightly at the warm, wet skin of Hale’s shoulder and neck. Mine, he whispered into Hale’s mind. His free hand ghosted over the younger teen’s erection, and Hale arched with a long, soft moan. Laine watched through lidded eyes as his charge gave his body and soul into Laine’s care. It was sexy as hell.

The water lapped against their skin, set into motion by the gentle movements of Laine’s hand. Each little wave brushed Hale’s nipples, and it made his heart beat harder in rising pleasure. Dizzy, practically purring, both of them arched and flexed, sliding minutely against each other. Neither of them were in a hurry. They luxuriated in every touch and breathy moan. Every inch of skin was alive and awake.

Hale had never known such pleasure. It was addicting and glorious. Hale nearly screamed at the feel of Laine, his Laine, touching him. Laine’s long-fingered hand wrapped more firmly around his erection and slid up and down, pulling deliciously. Hale did cry out, loud and long, his head thrown back, as Laine dragged his thumb across the sensitive head. Laine’s own erection pressed hard into Hale’s lower back, and Hale wiggled until it was held between his cheeks. Laine groaned lowly in his ear, making Hale gasp, and flexed his hips, enjoying the make-shift channel.

Laine squeezed Hale’s wrists in warning before releasing them. Hale obediently kept them together, the ghost of Laine’s touch binding him still, as Laine dragged his now freed hand up Hale’s thin chest. He pressed down on a perky nipple, rubbing in small circles until Hale groaned and bit down lightly on his plump lower lip. His bright green eyes were wide open, the pupils dilated with passion; his dark hair clung to his forehead and flushed cheeks.

Laine grabbed Hale’s jaw, forcing his charge’s head to tilt to the side. It gave him an excellent view down Hale’s chest to his groin. Laine enjoyed watching his paler hand work Hale, enjoyed laving all the skin of Hale’s shoulder and neck with lips and tongue. Hale was nearly constantly moaning now, and Laine released his boy’s shaft to pull hard at Hale’s balls, denying him release. Hale bucked with a sharp cry before falling still once more, his whole body shivering and his skin raised in goosebumps.

“Not before me, Hale,” Laine whispered into the flushed shell of Hale’s ear.

“Y-yes, L-Laine,” Hale stuttered, his mouth falling open in a pant.

Laine returned to stroking Hale’s penis, his hand moving in time to his rocking hips. He was close, very close. Laine spread his legs, pulling Hale’s open with them. He bucked his hips up harder along the crack of Hale’s ass and gasped at the firmer friction. Hale’s balls bounced under the water, completely on display.

“Oh, Laine,” Hale moaned, almost mindless with sensation.

The sound of his submissive’s voice, so wanton, pulled him over the edge. Laine bit down on Hale’s shoulder hard enough to mark this time, and Hale arched with a hoarse scream, releasing in Laine’s hand. When they could both think again, Laine delivered one last lick to Hale’s neck before setting him free. Hale sighed, content, still tingling from his dominant’s touch.

Hale climbed out of the tub with Laine’s help. “Thank you,” he whispered, knowing those simple words would never convey how much Laine meant to him. How humbled he felt, how utterly grateful and blessed he was to have Laine take care of him. He could only hope a fraction of the overwhelming love and devotion he felt for the older teen shone though the bond they shared.

Laine gently caressed Hale’s blushing cheek before holding more firmly, forcing Hale’s eyes to meet his own. You’re mine, Hale. I want every piece of you, inside and out.

Hale released a soft sob of joy, tears wetting his face. “Yours. I’m yours, Laine.”

“Good,” Laine said and basked in the feelings coming from the slender teen for a moment longer before dropping his hand. “Get dressed, Hale. We still haven’t had breakfast.”

xXx

Severus entered the dining room and frowned when he noticed that the love-sick couple of their team were the only ones in attendance. “Have the boys not come down yet?”

“Not yet,” Tonks said cheerfully, pulling away from Remus’ side. “And Linc hasn’t been back since he took off on ‘business’.” Her fingers made air quotes.

“Did you contact your family?” Severus asked, sitting and pulling his napkin into his lap.

“I did, thanks.” Tonks gave him a bright smile. “They’re fine.” She cast Remus a sly look. “I was trying to talk Remus into visiting them with me once the barrier is dropped.”

Severus’ mouth twitched into a smile as the werewolf flushed bright red. They may be allies, but Severus still enjoyed seeing Lupin uncomfortable. Which reminded him. “The full moon is tomorrow. I’ll have the Wolfsbane finished by tonight. You can take your first dose then, another in the morning, and the last right before the moon rises.”

Remus inclined his head. “Thank you, Severus.”

“Where’s Armand?” Tonks asked, helping herself to some pancakes.

“He is with his mother,” Severus answered. He poured himself some coffee and unfolded the Daily Prophet.

“Severus…” Remus waited until the exasperated dark eyes lifted to meet his own. “What did the potion reveal to you?”

Severus scowled. “That’s none of your concern, mutt.”

“I disagree,” Remus argued patiently. He put his hand over Tonks to prevent the boisterous woman from coming to his defense. Tonks glared at him for his trouble. “Harry is very much my concern. James and Lily were a part of my pack. I care about their son very much. It’s why I agreed to join this team. I have a right to know what happened.”

Severus stared back at his old adversary, eyes dark and cold. “Harry is fine at the moment, that’s all you need to know. His past isn’t up for dissection.”

Remus didn’t agree, but he knew now wasn’t the time. Severus was stubborn. He decided to let the subject drop for the moment. “Have you discovered anything about the bond Harry has with your son? Were you responsible?”

Severus sneered. “I assure you I have nothing to do with it. The bond was in place years before we found them.”

Remus took a sip of tea. “I believe you. I still had to ask.” He set his cup down gently. “Actually, I wanted to ask you about Harry. I’ve noticed how you treat him. Laine I can understand. He’s your son. Not to say I’m not grateful for the care you’ve displayed for Harry,” he was quick to say.

Severus rubbed his forehead with long, potion-stained fingers. He was uncertain if his growing headache was due to the Membrosis potion or if it was because of the annoying couple. Perhaps it was time to let a few things come to light. It would get Lupin off his back, and it wasn’t like he was planning on keeping it a secret forever. Lupin and Tonks would be a good test run for when he let the truth become public.

Decided, he braced his hands on the table, his thin black hair curtaining his face, making his expression look more severe. “Lily and I had an affair during our last three years at Hogwarts. She gave birth to Laine during our sixth year and we decided to give him up for adoption. She conceived a second time at the end of our seventh year and decided to leave me and seduce James Potter instead of giving up the second child. Harry is also my son.”

Remus’ hand clenched around Tonks’ arm, making the witch wince. “Oh, Severus,” he said mournfully. “You mean you don’t know? She promised me that she’d tell you.”

Severus tensed. His body went absolutely still. “Tell me what, Lupin?”

Remus released Tonks and reached across the table. Severus was too far to touch, but the sympathetic gesture couldn’t be denied. “Severus, Harry really is James’ son. Lily lost your second child.”

“No,” Severus whispered. It was the only sign of weakness he allowed. His expression remained blank, his body still.

“She had a miscarriage two months after graduation. James and Sirius were on a mission. I was the only one with her, and she confessed to everything. That it was your child and not James’.” Remus closed his eyes in remembered pain. “She was devastated by the loss. She thought it was punishment for falling in love with James. She was extremely depressed the following month. It wasn’t until she discovered she was pregnant with Harry that she came alive again.”

Severus stood so fast that his chair scraped loudly along the hardwood floor. He shot Remus a venomous glare before storming from the room.

“What do you think he’s going to do?” Tonks asked in a whisper. Her hair had wilted around her, fading to a dull brown. Her eyes darkened into a muddy hazel.

“Brew the lineage potion, I suppose.” Remus leaned back in his chair, his lightly scarred face creased with exhaustion.

Tonks kissed his cheek. “It’ll be all right. If he loved Lily as much as I think, then this won’t change how he feels about Harry.”

“I hope you’re right,” Remus whispered and pulled her in for a gentle kiss.

xXx

When Laine and Hale finally made it down to breakfast, only Remus and Tonks were still present. The witch and wizard were talking quietly, several newspapers spread out in front of them. Coffee and tea sat at their elbows. Steam rose from the cups, indicating they were fresh. Remus looked up with a welcoming smile. Laine nodded his head stiffly in greeting. The man’s eyes set him on edge. They had grown progressively more golden and less amber over the last couple days. Whenever those eyes settled on Hale, Laine’s hair stood on edge and he felt a strange urge to growl.

“Are you reading about the war?” Hale asked as food magically appeared on the table in front of them. It still didn’t seem real to him. They had been safe from the frightening cloaked figures since they’d escaped America.

Tonks sighed and rested her chin in the palm of her hand, her elbow braced on the table to hold her head up. “It’s so frustrating. The only Daily Prophets we can get are from before the barrier went up. No one knows what’s going on in the Wizarding world since then.” She flicked at the paper. “And all the European Wizarding papers are still arguing over whether they should care or not. Most people want to believe the Dark Lord won’t try to expand his territory once he’s done settling his power in the UK, but that’s a load of crock if I’ve ever heard it! Of course the Dark Lord will expand. He’s a megalomaniac!”

“They are frightened,” Remus said and put a calming hand on her arm. “It’s not like they can do anything about England. It’s too late.”

“They can prepare!” Tonks resorted hotly.

“They are.” He retrieved his wand from his pocket and waved it. The papers obediently neatened themselves and settled into a tightly folded pile at the end of the table. “Just because it isn’t in the news doesn’t mean the governments aren’t scrambling to put together a defense just in case the Dark Lord should attack.”

Tonks ruffed up her hair violently. “It’s just so frustrating.”

Laine and Hale had sat silently through this conversation. Laine was thinking that if these people were right, then the Dark Lord would come after Hale again once he solidified his power base in the UK. Laine needed to make use of this time and prepare himself for magical combat. Hale, on the other hand, was worrying about the people trapped within that barrier. He didn’t want to think about what life under an evil dictator would be like.

“Well, boys, I have a feeling Severus will be quite occupied brewing potions today,” Remus cut into their thoughts with a friendly smile. “I thought we could take a walk through the woods. It’s a beautiful day. It’d be a shame to stay inside and not enjoy it.”

“Maybe we’ll even see a magical creature or two,” Tonks added with enthusiasm. She even bounced in her seat. “They’re attracted to magic and this place is warded to the teeth.”

“Really?” Hale’s green eyes sparkled with excitement.

Laine ran his hand gently down Hale’s arm, smiling when it made the younger teen shiver and turn his full attention to him. “We’ll go exploring, but after lunch we have to go back to lessons.”

Hale cheered, making Tonks and Remus laugh. They finished their breakfast quickly, and Hale practically ran toward the front door. Laine ran after him, calling over his shoulder, “I hope you two can keep up.”

Tonks gave chase, running after the two teenagers into the warm summer day. Remus followed more slowly. His whole body ached and throbbed and he felt hot and achy. There was no mistaking that the full moon was tomorrow night. But he was used to the pain, and he smiled happily as he watched his lover and the two boys play.

The three settled down once they were under the shaded canopy of the woods. Tonks and Hale were flushed in the face from their exertions, but Laine looked as collected as ever. Remus was impressed. Clearly the boy was athletic. Hale turned and matched his pace to Remus’. Laine kept pace on Hale’s other side while Tonks scouted on ahead.

“What kinds of things live here?” Hale asked curiously, head tilted cutely to the side.

“We’ll just have to see.” Remus smiled and ruffled the boy’s hair. He ignored the sharp glare Laine shot him for the action. “There are many things magical in these woods. Like calls to like and the strong magical aura around Zabini Manor calls to magical creatures.”

“Aura?” Hale asked. He turned around to look back at the large manor. It stood resolute and beautiful. Fantastical stone gargoyles stood at the corners of the roof and half the house was blocked from view by tall, ivy-covered walls that held secure the gardens. It was a beautiful sight, but Hale didn’t know what the older man meant by aura.

“Yes.” Remus stopped to look as well, Laine a few steps behind them. “For almost a century that building has stood and housed nearly a dozen magical children. Think of how much magic has been used within its walls in the few days you’ve been here. Now imagine how many days it has sat there. There is so much magic and history here that it has taken on its own aura. Much like Hogwarts has, but Zabini Manor is an infant compared to the castle.”

“Wow. And creatures are drawn to this?” Hale asked as he looked around the woods. The trees stood very tall and he had to crane his neck back to see their tops. The thick canopy and dark leaves created deep shadows just three feet past the wood edge, but even so he didn’t feel anything foreboding. The trees had a feeling like they belonged there, that in a way it was just an extension of the manor. He couldn’t wait to explore.

“If we’re going to look around, we should get moving,” Remus said and led the way.

Hale quickly caught up. “How will we know if we’re near a magical animal? What if we miss it?”

“I already found some,” Tonks assured, coming back for the slower boys. “Come on! Try to walk silently.”

Laine had to admire her ability to change her color. The woman had made her skin a dark caramel that matched Armand’s, her hair was a brown with black dapples and stripes like a cat, and her eyes were as black as Severus’. Paired with her dark blue jeans and brown shirt, she was near invisible in the shadows of the trees.

They came to a small clearing and crouched down obediently when Tonks flashed her hand out. Crawling forward, they peeked passed the bushes to see a pure white horse. It was large with a round belly, white glittery hair covering its huge hooves, and a long flowing mane. Hale gasped when he noticed the pearlescent horn rising from its head.

“A unicorn…” he breathed near silently.

Laine shivered as Hale’s awe joy flooded their bond.

Tonks leaned into Remus’ side and they shared a sweet, loving smile. Remus put his arm around her and held her tight. The four of them sat for nearly ten minutes, just watching the gorgeous creature. It grazed and stomped its foot. Its dark brown eyes remained calm and peaceful. Finally, it leapt from the clearing and disappeared into the trees.

Hale definitely wanted to keep exploring after that. His eyes darted from shadow to shadow excitedly, but Remus was more serious. There were dangerous things in the woods, usually not so close to the edge, but he would be alert just in case. They walked for nearly an hour. Tonks was scouting ahead again, hoping to find something as she had the unicorn.

“Remus, did you really know my mother? Will you tell me about her?” Hale spoke up unexpectedly.

Laine flashed Hale a surprised look before turning to Remus with an expression so wary that it made Remus’ heart ache. He smiled and stopped, leaning heavily against a tree. “I would love to. Why don’t we rest here a moment?”

“Are you alright?” Hale came to his side, but the older man just brushed him away.

“Fine. Just old age.” Remus sat and Hale quickly settled next to him while Laine stood watch a few feet away. “Your mother was a wonderful woman. She was very kind and had a wicked sense of justice. Lily was loyal and true, never doubt it. She loved Severus very much, but she also loved her children. She knew that she couldn’t help Severus, but she could help you. So she courted and married James.”

“But how is that true and loyal? It doesn’t seem fair to anyone. Not James or my mother or my father. Or even me.” Hale kicked at the leaves, eyes downcast.

Remus decided it was best not to mention that Severus wasn’t Hale’s father. The truth would come out once Severus was done with his potions. “She needed James, Hale. She needed his protection and his connections to find Laine. As soon as the war was over, she planned to go looking for Laine, too.”

“So she used James,” Laine said coldly. Hale bit his lip unhappily.

“No. That isn’t true.” Remus shook his head and placed a gentle hand on the Hale’s shoulder. He didn’t leave it there, merely squeezing once and letting go. He knew by now that Laine would attack him otherwise and the boys needed to hear this. “Listen. James was my friend many years before Lily was. I tell you truthfully that he needed Lily more than she needed him. He was losing himself. The war was raging, every side was putting pressure on him, and his best friend was getting more and more out of hand. He needed stability and a guiding light. Lily became that for him. She loved him just as much as Severus in the end.”

Laine snorted and crossed his arms.

“What was she like?” Hale asked softly.

“Hmmm… Let me tell you a story. One day James and Sirius, that was James’ best friend, experimented and made some magical fireworks. Lily found out and made them promise not to set them off in the school. Who knew if they had made them correctly? Well, Sirius talked James and I into trying the smallest ones. He promised the shields we could put up around would keep anyone from getting hurt. But the firework didn’t go off. Mad and disappointed, James and Sirius left to work on them some more. Classes let out and the common room filled with the younger students. The firework exploded unexpectedly. Several kids were injured. Lily was there and instantly helped me tend to the wounded. When James and Sirius made an appearance, she was furious. With just a look, she had them cowed. Sirius went on and on about ‘how were they suppose to know it would do that?’, but James came over and helped. He carried a little girl in his arms all the way to the hospital wing promising her treats. They didn’t test their fireworks inside again. Sirius tried to talk him into it, but James was firm. Even so, it took him a week to get Lily to talk to him again.”

Hale watched Remus avidly as the story was told, but before he could ask for another he saw lime green eyes blink at him from a bush. He quickly got Remus’ attention and they watched wide-eyed as the strange creature stepped closer. It had a human body, but the ears, horns, and legs of a goat. It was very thin with blue skin and green hair and eyes, and it stood about waist high.

The creature backed a step and then crept forward. It was like a strange dance. Hale reached toward it, but Laine slapped his hand down. He wasn’t about to let Hale touch some strange creature without knowing what it was first.

“It’s called a Woodland Leshy,” Remus said quietly. “They are guardians of the forest. They don’t physically attack people, but enjoy getting them lost in the thick underbrush and trees. They are very mischievous creatures who love to misguide those who trespass on their territory.”

“Be you lost, poor humans?” the Leshy asked sweetly.

“No.” Hale shook his head. “We were just looking for a creature such as yourself.”

“What could you want with one like me? I am ignorant of all the world beside that covered by leaf and branch.”

Before Hale could answer, the bush shook and out flew a new creature. It was half the size of the three foot Leshy and was a perfectly formed man. Everything about the creature was green. Green skin, green leaves for clothes, it even had dark green eyes the same color as Hale’s. It glared viciously at the Leshy and the Leshy stamped a hoof back.

“You will not endanger this wood by leading these mortals deeper within my trees. Send them away quick or I’ll have to bury you!” the green man shouted in a surprisingly loud voice, though still not as loud as a normal speaking voice.

“That’s a Green Man or Jack in the Green. They are ardent protectors of the woods and care for all vegetation,” Remus whispered.

“You rule me not, Leaf-Kisser,” the Leshy said with a sneer. “Be gone whilst I help these poor souls.”

There was no more warning than that before the two creatures crashed together. Hale cried out in dismay and leapt to his feet. Laine wrapped an arm securely around his chest to keep him from interfering in the fight. Hale turned to plead with Laine, but stopped when a small furred hand tugged on his fingers. The boy looked down and found a six inch man covered in silky hair standing on a low tree branch.

“Come away, lest they remember you. It’s time for you to leave,” the sweet voice murmured almost too low to hear.

“Thank you,” Hale said. “But what about them? They could be hurt.”

“No, no. Go. They are fine. Time to go, child, time to go.”

“Thank you,” Hale repeated and allowed Laine to guide him back toward the manor. “Sir, what was that?” he asked, looking back at Remus who followed him.

Remus smiled. “That was a Domovoy. I’m surprised it came out. They are spirits that live within homes of any kind. Maybe the Leshy’s or the Green Man’s was near there. They are very rarely seen and hearing one moan is a sure sign doom is coming.”

“Wow. I can’t believe we got to see so many magical creatures.” Hale was practically skipping, his worry over the creature’s wellbeing forgotten. “They were so cool! Do you think you could teach me more about magical creatures, Remus?”

“I would love to, Hale.” The older man smiled brightly. He then lifted his fingers to his mouth and whistled loudly. “Just letting Tonks know we’re going back.”

“Will she be okay?” Hale looked around as if expecting to see her step out of the woods any moment.

“She’s fine,” Remus reassured. “She’s very capable of defending herself.” What he didn’t tell the boys was that Tonks was marked as Remus’ mate. Very few creatures, magical or otherwise, would mess with a werewolf.

xXx

Gloria sat down to lunch not quite sure how she felt about Armand’s story. Having raised ten children, she was aware that her son had left a few things out, but she’d be patient. Clearly her home would have to remain open to the group. At least until she found a way to extract her son.

“Lady Zabini,” Remus Lupin greeted with a low bow. “It is a pleasure to meet you. I’m Remus Lupin, and this is Nymphadora Tonks. We thank you for your hospitality.”

“You are welcome here, Mr. Lupin, Ms. Tonks,” she returned graciously and shot a pointed look at the scowling Laine. “Please be seated and enjoy the meal.”

Laine sneered and decided to ignore the older witch. She wasn’t worth his time. But he did make sure to give some clear instructions. Never be alone in a room with her, Hale.

confusion – Hale slanted him a glance, a frown tugging down the corners of his mouth.

Laine stared back seriously. He was not going to soften the order or retract it. He meant every word and would be very displeased if Hale didn’t obey.

Hale ducked his head and gave a slight nod – acceptance disappointment.

Gloria allowed herself to be drawn into a conversation with the only other female present. The young woman asked her about the current fashions and complemented her on the necklace she wore. Gloria kept her ear on the men’s conversation, however.

“Did you enjoy your morning?” Armand asked politely.

The boy called Hale eagerly described their adventures in the woods and Gloria felt a pang even as she smiled and nodded along to what Tonks was telling her. She missed Blaise desperately. She worried constantly about her youngest child, sealed away from her in Hogwarts. Her only consolation was the fact that Blaise was hopefully equally sealed from the Dark Lord and the war.

“I want to start training,” Laine spoke once Hale finally fell silent. “Where’s Severus?”

“He’s working on some delicate potions work. He most likely won’t join us until dinner,” Armand answered.

Gloria frowned and turned away from Tonks. She had a feeling she knew what was coming and she didn’t like it. Sure enough, Armand inclined his head to the obnoxious teenager.

“I would be honored to begin your instruction in dueling. If you agree, Remus and Tonks can continue Hale’s lessons while we work.”

“I am no slouch in dueling, Amadeo,” Gloria said sweetly, eyes on Laine. Like hell she would allow this aggressive thug to duel with her Amadeo.

The teenager looked back at her, face blank and hard-eyed. “Fine with me,” he said with a careless shrug.

Gloria gave a soft smile. She was going to enjoy putting Laine in his place.

“Laine?” Hale’s eyes were wide behind his glasses.

“I’ll be fine.” Laine stroked the younger teen’s hair a few times and brushed his finger tips along his jaw. “You’ll have fun with Remus and Tonks.” Silently, he added, I’ll be monitoring you closely. If you feel uncomfortable at all, I want you to go up to our room. If I need you, I’ll call.

Hale smiled, his worries laid to rest. “Okay.” He smiled across the table at Remus and Tonks. They smiled back.

Laine, on the other hand, stared Remus down with dangerous warning etched across his features. Remus shivered as even his wolf whined in fear of the older teen’s wrath.

xXx

Laine followed Armand and his mother out into a gravel courtyard. There was a steel circle inscribed in the ground along the courtyard’s walls. Obviously it had been designed for what they were about to do.

“Do you really think you are ready for battle magic?” Gloria asked.

She stood in the exact center of the circle. Her fancy robes and jewelry were gone. Instead she wore more form-fitting robes that stopped at her ankles to prevent them hindering her movements. Laine was perfectly fine in jeans, sneakers, and his T-shirt. He had taken off all his jewelry, though.

Her dark eyes were filled with disdain, her mouth twisted into a sneer. “From what I understand, you and your brother only recently acquired wands. Do you even know any spells?”

Laine felt adrenaline heighten his senses. He was actually pleased the bitch was going to be a part of the training. She wouldn’t pull her punches like Armand. To get her even more worked up, he ignored her completely and turned to her son. “I’m going to need to know how to fight sooner rather than later. I don’t have the time to go through the basics.”

Armand nodded, having suspected something like that. “Very well. I’ll show you the basic attack and shielding spells. Once you have them memorized, you’ll begin a simple duel with my mother.”

“Do hurry up,” Gloria said with an impatient flick of her fingers. “I do not have all day.”

Laine nodded and lifted his wand. The spells Armand demonstrated were difficult and delicate, but he had to get this right. An hour later, he wiped his brow of sweat and scowled at the annoyingly calm and unruffled man across from him. Gloria was sitting on a bench reading a book and occasionally yawning. Scowling, magic pulsing under his skin, Laine struggled to keep it contained.

“I’m ready,” he bit out between clenched teeth.

Armand nodded and bowed to his mother. “Madre, if you would enter the circle, please.”

“About time.” She rose gracefully and moved to position herself directly across from Laine with Armand between them.

“You are regulated to the use of the Blasting and Petrification Curses, the basic Shield and Disarmament Charms, and the Sleeping Hex.”

“Understood.” Gloria lifted her wand across her body and slashed out.

“Got it.” Laine rolled his shoulders. He bent his legs slightly, ready to move in any direction necessary. His blue eyes stared at his opponent dangerously.

Armand hid a shiver at the sheer force of Laine’s willpower. Staring into those cold eyes, Armand could sense that Laine had no concept of yielding. It was do or die for the teen. That mindset paired with the powerful magic his body contained was truly intimidating. He shook his head at his mother’s stubbornness. This duel would not end the way she foresaw.

“The victor is the first to render their opponent unconscious or wandless. Stepping outside of the circle is the same as forfeiting. Do both of you understand the rules?” Gloria and Laine both said yes and Armand stepped out of the circle. “Begin!”

“Stupefy!” Gloria yelled while taking a large side-step right to throw off Laine’s aim.

The spell went wide as Laine rolled forward, toward Gloria. She had expected the teen to use a shield. Laine’s instincts, unlike the average witch or wizard, told him to get close to the enemy, close enough to do bodily damage, pin them down, or - Laine’s favorite - close enough to cut their throat. He still had his knife on him, he never went without it, and Armand hadn’t said anything against physical attacks.

Gloria wasn’t about to let Laine closer to her, however. She began to fire off spells rapidly. She didn’t bother casting them out loud. Laine ducked, rolled, and dodged. His wand snapped out twice to cast the Shield Charm. He rolled backward and leapt to his feet, keeping his torso low, nearly parallel to the ground, as he ran around the circle’s edge.

“Stupefy! Expelliarmus!” he hissed.

Gloria shielded the spells and frowned at the tingle that ran up her arm. The teen was hitting her with surprising power. Avoiding any more direct hits, she danced around his attacks with the grace of a ballerina. “Reducto!”

Laine dropped into a backward roll. His eyes narrowed dangerously and he aimed his own Blasting Curse. It hit the ground in front of Gloria and lifted a fine spray of gravel into the air. Gloria cried out in surprise as she was pelted with the tiny rocks. It stung painfully and grit got into her eyes, hindering her vision. Laine didn’t stop to preen under the successful attack. He went in for the kill immediately. Laine threw his knife. Gloria screamed as sharp pain flared in her arm, her wand tumbling to the ground. Laine was still moving forward at a near run. He was only a foot away when he cast, “Stupefy!”

The witch dropped unconscious immediately under the powerful spell. Laine stood over her limp body, eyes blazing with triumph. He looked across to Armand to see his reaction. The man gave a shallow bow, saying, “Well done.”

“Is she going to be a problem?” Laine demanded.

Armand considered the question. “Not yet.” He strode forward and knelt beside his mother. He smoothed his hand over her head. “If she becomes one, we will leave.”

Laine nodded. Hale. Come. When Armand went to examine the deep gash in Gloria’s forearm, he gently toed the man’s hands away. “Leave it.”

Armand looked up sharply at that, but before he could question the teen, Hale entered the courtyard.

“Laine, are you okay?” Hale asked quickly as he hurried to the older teen’s side.

“Fine.” Laine gestured toward the growing puddle of blood under the woman’s arm. “I cut her.”

Hale dropped to his knees and cradled the limb in his lap. He lowered his head and closed his eyes.

Laine frowned as the minutes drew out. Hale’s gift of healing was extremely powerful. A cut like Gloria’s should have taken ten seconds at most. He crouched, eyes narrowed on Hale’s profile. The younger teen was sweating and his skin was growing pale. He settled a long-fingered hand in Hale’s messy hair worriedly. “Hale?”

Armand had watched Hale heal Laine’s broken leg with miraculous ease. He would have assumed a cut would be easier not harder. A dark suspicion grew in his mind.

Hale gasped and fell against Laine’s chest. Laine immediately brought his arms up around his charge. Hale stared up at Laine with wide eyes. “It… It was different,” he said tiredly, afraid. “It felt… heavy. Laine, what’s happening?”

Laine ran his hand up and down Hale’s back soothingly. He looked to Armand for an answer.

Armand settled back on his heels, his hands dangling between his knees. “I can only guess where Hale’s problem lies.”

“And that would be?” he demanded through gritted teeth. He needed to know what was wrong with Hale!

Armand bowed his head in apology. “Without a wand, magic is wild. You exerted more control over your magic over the years, so your magic isn’t so much wild as it is wandless magic. Hale’s magic is different. It is truly wild. He offers his magic a single goal and lets it use him to accomplish that goal however it will. Now that he’s taming his magic with a wand, his magic will lose… sentience, I suppose. He’ll need to learn the actual spells to heal.”

Hale stared at Armand with wide eyes. He began to shake his head slowly in denial, his attention instinctively moving to Laine for reassurance and comfort. Laine let the denial fear rejection wash over him for a moment. “What would the consequences be for not taming his magic?”

“Hale wouldn’t be able to use a wand or do everyday spells. He will be reduced to healing magic only, since that is where his natural inclination lies, and any accidental outbursts that occur.

Laine pushed Hale away from his side gently. He crouched in front of the kneeling teen and clasped his thin shoulders. Hale stared back at him with a look of pure fear. Laine held his green eyes seriously. Listen to me, Hale. Focus. “You won’t be able to cast an Umbrella Charm in the rain, create a Lumos, or summon things to you. You won’t be able to use your wand ever again.”

Hale stared into his dominant’s eyes, heart beating fast. He loved magic and he loved the feel of his wand, but he’d lose the ability to heal instantly and completely. He’d have to learn healing spells. It would take years to learn how to do what he could do now so easily. Tears burned Hale’s yes. He didn’t want a wand at that cost. How many times had Laine needed him to heal him? How many times would Laine have died if Hale hadn’t been there? But this was their world now, the magical one. Would he be a burden to Laine without normal magic and a wand? His breath came in panting gasps, panic seizing his lungs. The smallest decisions were difficult for him and this was huge.

Laine delved deep through his charge’s emotions. As Hale’s distress rose, his fingers tightened around the younger teen’s shoulders. He’d made his decision. “Stop training. Give me your wand. I’ll take care of you. I’ll protect you. If you need a spell done, I’ll do it.”

Hale went limp, tears of absolute relief gratitude love soaking the bond. Rubbing his cheek against Laine’s chest, he pulled back to hand over his wand. “Yes, Laine. Thank you,” he said softly, obediently.

Laine took it carefully. He pulled Hale’s head back with the grip he had on his hair and kissed him deeply. Good boy.

Armand watched the two teens kiss with a worried frown. He didn’t think Severus was going to like this.

Chapter end.

Please review!

It’s crucial for the development of this story. I need to know if there is any confusion in the readers as I depict this complicated relationship.
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Freedom In Chains