You're A Good Boy, Harry Potter.

Harry glanced at where Ron was waiting in line, and mentally sighed. Ron had been right that they shouldn't be standing next to each other during this first inspection by the aurors, but he wanted him closer than four people away. He saw the Captain they had been introduced to earlier and noticed the mischievous look he had. Oooh, it was going to be one of *those* initiations.

A man with corporal markings walked up to their line and sneered at them. "I am *Corporal* Withseon. You are now *mine*," he told them, starting his inspection. He walked down the line, frowning and making pithy comments at each one, coming to Ron first. He looked this female over and sneered harder at her. "Thinking you can get past all these men, girly?"

Ron shrugged. "You have no idea what I can do, so save your judgement until I fuck up, thank you," Ron said back, smirking slightly.

"Ooh-ho! A *feisty* one, gentlemen. We'll have to watch out for this one. Thinks she's as good as a man." He looked Ron over again, staring particularly hard at her small tits. Then he looked in her eyes again. "You have to do what I say."

Ron laughed. "No, I don't. I have to do what *he* says," he corrected, pointing at the Captain. "He never said a thing about following you...sir."

"Really? Do you see these?" he asked, pointing at the stripes.

"No, I'm actually seeing the fact that it's not your shirt," Ron told him blandly. "The name you gave us and the name on the shirt's tag don't match...sir." He grinned. "Anything else you wanted me to observe? Like getting your ass kicked for staring at my tits?"

The Captain laughed and walked up to him. "He is not who he said he was, very well done, Weasley." Ron nodded his head. "This is actually Sergeant Witherspoon, he is in charge of training."

"And I already don't like you," he sneered at Ron. He snapped his fingers. "You'd be the wife," he said with a cold smirk.

"Yes, mine," Harry said as he stepped forward. "Stare at my wife's breasts again and we're going to have a problem," he told him. The Sergeant looked at him and Harry crossed his arms over his chest, giving him his best psychotic look. Incidentally, the Sergeant couldn't see his nametag now either. Best to set this off as an anonymous person for now. "Do continue, please, sir, we're all looking forward to the spell training we're supposed to be receiving after you get done. Much more so than standing out here in the sunlight getting sneered at. Oh, and you might want to see Professor Snape, he does that *so* much better than you."

The Sergeant walked down and looked down at the boy. "What was that, runt?"

Harry removed his arms. "I said there are others who sneer better and you should probably take lessons. My other husband can even do better and he's in a good mood today." He smiled his best impudent grin. "Anything else, sir? I'd really rather be in classes by now. Time's wasting."

The Captain coughed. "Potter, calm down. I don't need you to destroy him because he stared at Weasley." He pointed at the spot next to Ron. "You should be there."

"I thought so too," Harry admitted as he walked down there, "but Ron said not to." He kissed Ron on the cheek. "Don't fight him, it'll only take longer."

"I know, but he's an ass and I've had enough of that already today," Ron pointed out. Harry and the Captain both looked at him. "What? The other husband was in a bad mood this morning, you try dealing with him when he's like that."

The Sergeant licked his lips. "Three husbands aren't legally bound." Harry opened his mouth. "And she doesn't look like a husband, so I know something's going on." He walked back to look at Ron. "You're not a normal human," he sneered. "We don't teach *creatures* here."

Ron punched him, knocking him onto his ass. "I'm still not a creature, don't start. I haven't had my midol yet this morning, or chocolate." The men around them backed away as Ron glared at him. "Now then, we were accepted. We're not asking you to train us, but we are here for training. If you want, you can run back to your barracks and cry into your pillow because Harry and I are here. We don't really care."

The Captain laughed. "I like that. Boys, my office." Harry opened his mouth. "We'll have to send you two through some special testing to gauge your abilities," he informed them. "Is there anyone else who Misters Potter and Weasley have trained?" he called. A few people stepped out.

Harry looked at one of them. "I don't know you," he told her.

"No, sir, but my father was an auror and he taught me everything he had already. I want to be tested." She looked at the Captain. "Please, sir, if possible."

"Of course." He looked at a few of the other candidates, knowing some weren't telling the truth. He'd leave them for now. "Those of you who stepped out, head to my office," he pointed at it. "Sergeant, please give them the usual spiel since your devious plan to put them off balance has failed." He walked after the group, silently laughing. No one had done that to him in six years, not since Tonks had come in. He got them into his office and gathered around his desk. "I was led to understand that Mr. Potter was given the right to give you lot some extra training?" Everyone nodded. "Good. Which books?"

"Remus Lupin sent us the Defense set from when he went," Harry told him quietly, sitting calmly next to Ron and holding his hand gently. "Most of the people in here I've led through at least the fifth year book."

"Very well. I always enjoyed those." He smiled at them. "We'll begin your testing this afternoon. For now, wait across the hall. Not you, Mr. Potter, or you, Mr. Weasley," he said when they stood up. He smiled once the door was closed. "I know you had to do it, but to show him up like that demoralizes his command ability."

"He's an ass," Ron pointed out. "And if he thinks they're big now, he should wait and see them at full girth," he said with a small smile. "I don't put up with shit from anyone, sir. Training is one thing, outside of that I don't deal well with it."

"That's fine. Mr. Weasley, do you know if you're fertile?" the Captain asked.

Ron shook his head. "Not by all indications," he lied. Draco and Harry had both warned him. "Let me make this very clear from the start. No one's getting my blood. Not unless I *want* to give it to them." He opened his shirt to show the device Draco had gotten for him. "If anyone tries anything, this is set to deliver enough opiate into my bloodstream to kill me and muddy it."

The Captain pushed a button on his desk, bringing a mediwitch. "Is that what I think it is?"

She looked at it, then grimaced and nodded. "It's a suicide patch, sir, properly applied and linked into the superior vena cava vein." She straightened up. "You're a changeling?" Ron nodded. "Good placement. Opiate?" He nodded again. So she looked at her commander. "The patch is set to flood his heart with opiate, sir. It latches on right before the vein enters the heart, so the last few pumps will muddy his blood thoroughly. Whoever did this did their homework."

"I'll tell Draco you said so," Ron said quietly. He looked at the Captain. "As you can see, we are prepared."

"I do see." The Captain looked at Harry. "What about you? Are you prepared for this, Mr. Potter?"

"I've faced him each year, sir, this is only formally training me for the next time." He squeezed Ron's hand. "I know this is highly unusual, but Ron's supposed to be training for defensive magic, not offensive. I thought he was supposed to be in a different working group."

"He was to be, we forgot," the Captain admitted. He looked at Ron. "Is that what you want?"

Ron shook his head. "No, I've already been on the front lines. I can see the point of me not dying on the field or being captured but with this it shouldn't matter." Harry looked at him. "It shouldn't. If anyone tries to bleed me, I have a small switch I can push to set the patch off. No one knows where it is but Draco and I."

"If that's what you want," Harry said quietly. Ron nodded and gave him a reassuring kiss. "Then I won't argue since you can't be taken."

"What if he's knocked out?" the nurse asked.

"It'll go off and I'll have really vivid dreams, but no one can use my blood," Ron told her. She nodded. "Is that all right with you, sir?" he asked their commander.

"I can't argue with it," the commander admitted. "Mr. Potter, I was asked to remind you that you still have to set up formal truce relations with your former Headmaster?" Harry nodded. "Why?"

"Because Dumbledore's fatal mistake was trying to make sure I didn't have a real life," Harry said simply as he stood up. "We should join the others, it looks like favoritism." He hauled Ron up and they walked out.

The nurse looked at him. "I got Poppy Pomfrey's notes about them," she said quietly. "There's a reason his scar is now bigger."

"I noticed," he sighed. "He snapped?" She nodded. "Very well, we'll keep it subtle."

"I think it's a bad idea, sir. He'll do what's necessary without being pushed into it. You might want to train him the regular way." She walked out.

The Captain considered it. "That might help him win, but even so," he decided, "it won't assure that he fights that battle the correct way." He stood up and walked across the hall to watch over the testing. This whole section was very well taught already it seemed.

***

Harry flopped on the couch after his first week, this was their time off and he wanted to enjoy it. The only problem was that Ron was already asleep in the big, comfy chair he had staked out as his. He looked around. "Draco!" he yelled. "We're back!"

Hermione walked in. "He's outside on his broom," she said with a smile. "How did it go?"

"Didn't Tonks say we were supposed to start in on charms and hexes immediately?" Harry asked. She nodded. "We've gotten ethics lectures all week. That and physical fighting tests."

"Oh. Well, you could write her and ask her," she suggested, leaning down to give him a hug. Then she grimaced. "Harry, you smell, go bathe," she encouraged, stepping away from him. "Take Ron with you."

"Ron, Hermione says we smell," Harry said loudly.

Ron waved a hand. "Later," he mumbled, curling up on his side as best he could.

Vincent Crabbe walked in and shook his head. "Asleep already and stinking up Draco's favorite reading chair?" he asked. "We'll have to fix that."

Draco walked in and stole a kiss from Harry, then bent down to wake up Ron and get one from him. "Up, the both of you need a bath. I'll even wash your backs," he encouraged at the mutinous look Ron gave him. "Come along, let's bathe together," he soothed, pulling Ron up.

"I'm tired!" Ron whined.

Vincent took the direct route and lifted him up, carrying him up to the master bedroom for Draco. "You can sleep once you don't smell," he retorted, setting Ron into the bathroom. "There, start the water." He gave Ron a hug. "I'm proud of you," he whispered before walking away.

Ron gave the empty doorway a goofy grin, but started the water as ordered. Harry and Draco walked in together, quietly talking. He stripped off for them and kissed Draco. "I'm home," he announced.

"I noticed," Draco smirked, leaning down to kiss the hard nipple. "Into the water so I can taste more of you." That got them moving like no other incentive would have. He stripped off to join them, settling into the warm, bubble filled water to scrub the sweat and dirt off them. "How was your first week?"

"Full of ethics lectures," Harry told him, grimacing.

"With a lot of words like 'sacrifice' and 'duty'," Ron agreed dryly.

"Are they going to pull what Dumbledore did?" Hermione asked from the doorway. Ron nodded. "Are you sure?"

"Yeah, I'm sure," Harry agreed. "I'm waiting to see how long it takes them to get to the real training." He grabbed the extra sponge and started on Ron's back for him. Ron looked at him. "To get you done faster; I haven't touched you since Sunday night," he reminded him.

"Good point," Hermione said with a smile. "I'll see you three at dinner." She closed the door to give them some privacy, and to shield the rest of the house from the incredible noise those three could make.

"I think she was embarrassed," Ron quipped.

"I thought us having sex at the dinner table would have cured that," Draco agreed, then he pounced. He hadn't had any since Sunday night either. It wasn't fair. It really wasn't.

***

Harry walked back into the camp Monday morning feeling much better. Ron was behind him and they nodded at the guard. "Where are we supposed to meet?" he asked as soon as they were checked in.

"Field. You're getting more physical training," the guard told him, looking at Ron. "Didn't you used to be smaller?"

"I change around a bit," Ron admitted. "In a few weeks, I'll be male." He shrugged and followed Harry to the meeting area. He hated this physical stuff, he already knew how to throw a punch and a hex. "When do you think they'll start the real training?" he asked as they walked.

"As soon as the rest of you can meet the required physical standards," the Sergeant told him from behind them.

Ron looked at him. "That's wonderful, when?" he asked happily. "I do better at hexes when I'm in male form."

"Next week sometime," he said with a sneer. "What should we do with you next week? You can't stay in your current tent," he noted.

"He can," Harry told him. "The other female in the class knows he's gay." He walked Ron on, shaking his head and rolling his eyes. "You'd think he was a twelve-year-old Malfoy," he said bitterly. Ron burst into giggles. "He acts like it," Harry defended.

"I'm telling Draco you noticed that," Ron teased, then jogged to the group since it looked like they were about to start. Harry joined him at his side, facing the Captain.

"This week, we'll finish your physical training. By the end of the week, you'll have routines to keep you in shape," the Captain announced. He smiled at the two on the end. "Though some of you probably don't need the exercise." The group looked at them then burst out in laughter.

Harry shrugged. "It is cardiovascular training," he agreed dryly. Ron snorted. "Running again, sir?"

"No, Potter, not today. Today we're going to be teaching more hand-to-hand. Break into pairs." He stepped back, watching as the group matched themselves against the others. Interestingly enough, they all picked their equals. Most groups tried to pick people weaker than themselves. Potter even broke off with Weasley to go to someone his own equal, Ron was weaker in this form physically and he knew it. Interesting. He'd have to do an evaluation and put them with people that would make them work later in the week. "Begin," he noted. A few lackluster punches were thrown. "For real, gentlemen. And ladies," he admitted when he saw the other woman's harsh look. Surprisingly, Ron attacked first, knocking her opponent onto the ground quickly and making sure he stayed there. "Weasley, don't damage them," he called.

"Sorry, sir, I didn't like his insinuation about unicorns," Ron said with a shrug. He looked at his fighting partner. "Get up already," he said dryly. "Before you get both of us in trouble."

His partner stood up. "Didn't get any again this weekend?" he taunted.

Ron punched him in the nose, breaking it. "Yeah, I did. Multiple, satisfying times," he said with a smirk. "The same as I do most nights." He kicked the guy in the knees and watched him fall, then shrugged and went to butt in on the person who had already knocked their opponent out. He didn't know him, but he looked tough enough to be a challenge and a workout. "Care for a dance?" he asked with a grin. The bigger guy smirked and they faced off. He was pulling his punches though. "I've got five older brothers, mate. Go for it. I can fight." One more hesitant swing then Ron hit him as hard as he could.

"You hit like a girl," he laughed, then took a real swing at him.

"Only for the next five days," Ron noted. "Then I get to hit like a bothie, then like a guy again," he said happily. The guy laughed and it was on. The other pairs stopped to watch them, and to get out of their way as they danced around.

"You're good," the guy noted.

"I've been practicing with Crabbe," Ron panted, ducking under a swing. "You must run or something."

"Or something," he said with a grin. Ron nailed him with a heel strike to the chest and he grunted. "Ow! Grumpy bitch." He swung again and Ron laughed, getting him again. "No fair!"

"Give me a few days for this to be fair," Ron pointed out. "I'll grow three inches soon." He was tagged on the arm, but had shifted so his arm was the only target so he was mostly prepared for it. He got the other guy with a heel sweep but found himself on the ground as well. "Wow." He lifted his head to look at the other guy. "Truce?"

"Truce," he panted, holding out a hand to shake it.

"Very well done," the Captain said happily. "Henderson, how was she?"

"Good sir." He stood up and hauled Ron up with him. "For a recruit, she's damn good. I guess it's having five brothers," he said with a smile for Ron. He stepped forward. "From now on, I am your personal trainer," he called out. "I am Staff-Sergeant Henderson. I run the gym!" The group groaned. "I will see you at least once a week in there. Some of you will need more," he said with a look at the person who Ron had started out with. "Some of you need less," he said with a smirk for Ron and Harry. "We will be checking to make sure you come see me often enough," he said then he fell back. "Weasley," he said as Ron moved past him. "Who's Crabbe?"

"My other husband's bodyguard," Ron told him.

"Ah! No wonder. Professionals are often better trained. Good job. Keep up your breath training though, you'll want it in a real fight."

Ron nodded. "I remember." He went back to find his spot in the line.

"Huh?" he asked quietly, looking at his captain. "Sir?"

The Captain looked at him. "They've been in a few real battles already," he said quietly. "Weasley ran into a few things that distracted him and Potter was trying so hard. They were fifth years during the first real one."

"Oh. Damn!" He shook his head. "Potter, appear here," he said, pointing at a spot he was walking toward. Harry walked over. "I'm also the combat instructor. I'll be testing you and Weasley tonight, son."

"And a few others," Harry said quietly. "They've been there too."

"That's fine, point them out to me." Harry whispered the names in his ear. "Good boy. Go back to your wife." He looked at the Captain and opened his mouth, but the older man shook his head. "Fine. I'll be doing combat testing tonight," he announced. "After dinner instead of your run." He walked away, going to plan out a mock battle sequence using the next group higher. They needed it. These new kids were already better.

The Captain smiled at the group. "Good work, you impressed him. He's moving you ahead."

"Can we start on spell training?" Ron asked.

"Next week, Weasley," he said tiredly. "For now, we've got more rule and introductory instructions to give you. Report to the mess hall." He watched them walk away and grabbed Weasley. "Why do you keep insisting on that?"

Ron grinned. "Because the aurors we've talked to and worked with told us that was supposed to come first," he said quietly. "Not this sacrifice crap. Because that will make some of us leave very quickly." He got free and walked after the rest of the group, going to find a seat and hopefully some water.

The Captain frowned. "Which ones have they worked with?" he muttered, going to make a note to check up on that later. He had their files and only one was mentioned.

***

Harry finished writing the letter and sent Hedwig on her way, smiling at Ron as he finished his. "Letter to your mother?"

Ron shrugged. "To Bill. He's due in this summer and Mum hasn't told him anything yet. I don't want to have to fight with him." He looked up. "Bill's almost as protective as you are." He grinned to show he wasn't being mean. "It'll be a fight no matter what, but this way might make it easier and go quicker." He finished it by signing his name and read over it, only inserting one word before tying it to Pig's leg and letting her go off. "There, all done. What should we do now?" he asked nicely.

"Ron, we can't even cuddle," Harry groaned, leaning back on his bed. "The rules forbid it."

"I know, but I don't want to cuddle. How about one of those five minute thingies?" Harry leered and started to get up but someone opened the door. "Dammit," Ron muttered. "Yes, sir?" he asked the combat instructor.

"Boys, you're to get special training," he said quietly. He looked at Harry. "It's been noted that your file was incomplete so we want to debrief you both about your real combat experiences and that'll be your test. We want you to be honest and realistic about how badly you messed up and what you did right." The boys nodded. "Good. Come with me." He walked them to his office in the gym and sat them in comfortable chairs. "We can do this two ways: pensieve or orally."

"Both," Ron told him. "That way they can be compared. Humans remember things funny according to our friend Hermione."

Harry nodded. "There's probably some things I'll want to forget about each fight," he agreed. "The pensieve would pull them out anyway, right?"

"Yeah, that would work," Henderson agreed, pulling out the official pensieve and putting it in front of them. "Do either of you know how to work one?"

"No, but I'm a quick study at the moment," Ron said lightly.

Henderson laughed. "Keep that sense of humor, you'll need it by the end of next week." He activated it for Ron, letting it make copies of everything in his head from the last two years. Then he sorted through it to find all the fighting incidents, stringing them together. "Didn't you say he was your other husband, Weasley?"

"Yeah, he reformed," Ron said with a grin. "He learned how to use his tongue to do more than say nasty things to us."

"Ron!" Harry said, scandalized.

"I meant he gives compliments now," Ron sighed, rolling his eyes. "Perv!"

Henderson laughed. "Don't worry, we don't have a sexual harassment statue in the auror corps. You can say things like that and not usually get into trouble."

"He will when I tell Draco he said it," Harry told him. He frowned at Ron. "He'll tease you to no end."

"He'll do it anyway," Ron pointed out. He grabbed a general rubberband off the desk and pulled his shoulder-length red hair into a ponytail. "He's been dying to tease us for weeks now, Harry."

"Yeah, I know," Harry sighed, slumping down some. The watching was complete and it was his turn. It felt like someone was rummaging around in his head with fingernails, but he guessed it was all right.

Henderson looked at it, then at him. "What's that?"

Harry looked. "My cousin. He's dead now."

"I see. Bully?"

"That's putting it mildly," Harry told him.

The Sergeant nodded and went back to his viewing. When he was done, he saved them both down to show his Captain. He was on the *wrong* track with these two. Weasley would protect Potter and make sure he won, no matter what it cost him. "I see you've both had some problems keeping your focus."

Ron nodded. "That giant brain thingie wasn't that fun," he agreed. "Then again, we were younger and less experienced in real fighting."

"Good point. Harry, that was dumb."

Harry beamed. "Thank you, sir. I enjoyed it immensely though." He stood up. "Did you really want our oral accounts?"

"No, not since I saw all that. I'm going to suggest that a few of you enter combat training sooner. As soon as you start learning your spells and hexes. I'll also talk to your last Defense teacher to see how you learn best." The nodded and Ron stood up. "Dismissed, thank you both." They walked out and he flooed his boss. "I've got a pensieve full of both of their heads, sir, and you're mistaken," he announced. "Ron'll do it because he loves him, of his own free will."

"I'll be right there," the Captain announced.

***

Harry looked up at the morning mail, smiling as his owl came flying down in front of him. "Hey, Hedwig, did you enjoy your trip, girl?" He scratched her gently and fed her a treat before taking the large envelope. "From Moody?" She hooted and nuzzled him before taking off for the rafters. Harry opened it and looked inside. "Two letters," he said happily, pulling them both out, silently hoping one was from Remus. No such luck.

"Who's the other from?" Ron asked.

"Tonks." He handed Moody's over after he had read it, it was general and a bit of praise from the rumors he had gotten. Tonk's on the other hand, it made him quietly fold it back up and put it into the envelope. "I've got to put this in the trunk," he said quietly. "I'll be right back."

"Finish breakfast first," Ron commanded, holding out a hand. Harry shook his head. "I can take it from you."

"She said not to tell you," Harry countered.

"All the more reason to." Harry handed it over and Ron read the letter, then folded it back up and put it into the envelope. "My mother doesn't know, right?"

"I shouldn't think they'd have told her," Harry agreed, glancing around. "Why?"

"Call Hedwig, this is going to mum." Harry called down his owl and Ron handed the envelope to her. "Take this to my mother," he said quietly, scratching her neck ruff. "Molly Weasley and no one else." Hedwig hooted and took off, going to take the letter back. Ron looked at Moody's letter and shook his head. "He hasn't heard obviously."

"He's out of the loop that way," Harry reminded him, putting a hand on his arm. "Whatever you want," he promised. "I'll support you."

Ron looked at him. "I want this shit to be over with," he said simply. "I want our lives to be normal again." He stood up. "I'm going to beat up on a heavy bag. Finish my breakfast for me." He walked away, going to do what he said. How dare they! He was not a tool!

Harry looked at the head table, trying to figure out who was pushing to call for a formal duel with Voldemort.

***

Molly looked up from her breakfast with her son-in-law, smiling when she saw the owl. "Two letters?" she said happily. Bill grunted on the other side of the table. She took the letter from Hedwig, watching as it was petted by Draco. The envelope was opened and she was smiling up until she read the third sentence. Then she handed it to Draco. "I don't want them there."

"Mum, aurors get into danger," Bill pointed out gently.

Molly looked at him. "Read yours again, Bill."

Draco used his wand to summon the paper they had written on what to do with Ron's blood, handing it to Bill. "For your further edification," he said as he read. He had expected this. He looked at Molly and nodded. "He's wearing a suicide patch," he said simply. Molly relaxed.

Bill looked at the paper, then at Draco. "Why do I need to read this?"

"That's what Ron is," Draco said patiently.

"What?" Bill shouted, standing up. "What did you do to my baby brother, Malfoy!"

"Nothing, the twins did it," Draco said calmly. He looked at Molly. "You didn't tell him either?"

She pursed her lips and shook her head. "I thought it'd be better to show him first, or to let Ron tell him," she admitted. She looked at Bill. "The twins decided to make a candy that would allow young men like you to be a woman for a few days," she told him. "It backfired."

Bill's mouth fell open and stayed that way. He started to shake his head. "No!" he said finally, walking out into the garden.

"He'll be home in three days," Draco called. "He'll be at the inbetween spot again."

"Can you get him home sooner?" Molly asked. She looked at Hedwig. "I'm wondering which one sent her?"

"Ron did," Draco told her. "He's still furious. That would explain why." He stood up. "Perhaps I should talk to him?"

"No, I'll get George to do it." She stood up and walked out, taking him to the twin's store. "George, Fred, look who's in," she called over the crowd of returning students. Fred and George both smiled and pointed at the doorway behind them. "We'll wait for you for a bit," she agreed, pulling him that way. "Now you listen to them, Bill, and try not to lose your temper. Ron's mostly happy now." She put him onto the couch and left him there, going back to Draco's. She was enjoying helping him plan the next party he would have to throw.

Bill was scowling when the twins walked in. "What did you two do to Ron?"

Fred shut the door. "We've only got a half-hour," he said quietly, glancing around. "What have they told you?"

***

Bill looked up as Harry and Ron apparated in and the shields closed again. He looked over Ron, still frowning. Then he looked at Harry and his hand on Ron's back. "Go away," he requested.

"Sure, we'll talk later," Harry agreed. "Draco?" he called as he walked away.

"Hi, Bill," Ron said, giving him a hug. Bill scowled at him. "What? You expected me to still be sulking after a year?" Bill opened his mouth. "In another six days, it'll be a year. We're going to celebrate it with the twins if you wanted to join in."

Bill shook himself. "At least it's only warped you slightly," he admitted. He shook himself briskly. "You're not bothered by this?"

"I had a few crying jags," Ron admitted as he sat down, staring at his big brother. "That first day found me throwing a royal temper tantrum in the backyard at home. The day I started my monthlies. The last time Harry and Draco refused to have sex with me." He shrugged. "I try to control it. It has warped me, but mostly in good ways. I can now translate between couples." He pointed at the chair next to him. "Sit, I can answer questions."

"I got the long lecture from the twins, from your...mate, and from mum," Bill admitted. "Ron, that's just odd, even for us," he decided.

Ron looked down at his shrinking chest. "I'll understand if it creeps you out. Charlie couldn't quit staring the whole time he was up." Bill lunged over and hugged him. "Thanks."

"I'm not going to abandon you, Ron, but it's still weird and I need time to think about it."

Ron hit him on the arm, but he was grinning. "You're my brother, you're not supposed to think about them."

Bill laughed. "You're definitely still yourself." He gave him a hair ruffle. "What's with the hair? Mum always tries to cut mine, why hasn't she gotten to yours yet?"

"Because she thinks it's only proper to have me grow it out," Ron said with a naughty grin. "Keeps trying to get me to wear a kilt all the time so I'm never out of a skirt too." Bill burst out in giggles. "Sure, yuk it up, but I don't have the legs for it. I look better in slinky gowns, which is good because Harry and Draco like to see me in them." He beamed. "With high heels of course."

"Of course," Bill agreed. He noogied his younger brother before standing up again. "You're really okay with this?"

"I've learned to be philosophical about it," Ron corrected. "I can't change it so I might as well go with it." He stood up. "Besides, I look hot in my dresses. Come on up and I'll show you. They've *forced* me to allow them to spoil me, Bill. Threatened to tickle me and things if I didn't."

Bill patted him on the back, smiling at him. This was the Ron he was used to. "They like you to be pampered. It's not such a bad thing." He followed Ron up to their room, quickly heading into the closet with him when he noticed the two sucking each other off on the bed.

Ron looked at him, then at the bed. "Wait for me, you greedy bastards," he shouted.

Draco pulled off and looked at him. "We're entertaining ourselves until you're done talking with your brother."

"We'll get you after dinner," Harry agreed, going back to what he had been doing. His wand flicked, drawing the curtains around the bed closed.

Bill shook his head to clear away the bad images. "You put up with that?"

"Yeah, they'll lick me until I'm unconscious later. Harry likes it that way," he said with a smirk.

Bill patted him on the back. "I revise my earlier statement, you are very warped, Ron."

Ron beamed. "Just wait." He glanced around then shut the door, losing his smile. "Bill, I need advise about the training program," he said quietly. "I really do."

Bill lost his smile, nodding. "What's going on?"

"You know that I can be used as part of a power raising potion?" Bill nodded slowly. "The Captain over our training group wants to try and brainwash me to let them kill me."

"But a freely-given bit would have more power," Bill pointed out.

"And he doesn't think I'd do it for Harry," Ron told him, opening a small box to show him the three vials of blood. "But I have."

Bill closed the top of the box. Seeing the contents had made him queasy. "I'll stand behind you no matter what, but I won't put up with you being in danger, Ron. Neither will the folks. Do they know?" Ron nodded. "Then I'd drop out. You and Harry both." He scratched the back of his neck. "Mother told me about how Dumbledore made him snap and all that. If they're going to press it, I'd say leave. You're both well trained already and you can probably mimic the training here just as well."

"I guess," Ron agreed. He glanced at the door again and pointed his wand at it, sending a small burst of energy at it, making Draco yell. "Yes, we're talking about that stuff." The door opened. "I was going to tell him about the gun, just in case."

Draco nodded, rubbing his arm. "If you think he's trustworthy," he agreed. He closed the door and went back to the bed, considering what he had heard. He nudged Harry. "Are they doing it to you? Like Dumbledore did?" Harry nodded slowly, giving him a trusting look. "You can quit."

"I shouldn't. I could use the training."

Draco touched the scar. "We don't want a repeat of this, especially not if they're going to break you two apart," he said quietly. "I want you to drop out."

Harry sat up. "Draco, I can't. You know I can't. It could mean the difference between winning and losing that fight. The difference between dying and not having to see the world go to hell quickly, and living to make sure it changes in a good way." His eyes pleaded for understanding even as his hands stroked over Draco's chest and he arched up to give him a kiss. "You know I won't let them hurt Ron."

"I'm worried about the both of you," Draco told him, giving him a hard kiss. "There isn't much we can't train you to do here at the house, Potter. I don't want to have to get an owl saying you're in the hospital because you snapped again. Besides, your dog misses you."

Harry sighed and leaned against him, getting comfortable. "I promise, if it gets to be too much I'll quit. I won't let myself snap and I won't let myself go odd either. We need the training though."

"If you insist," Draco said bitterly. Harry hugged him. "We do have an extensive Dark Arts library in the study," he noted.

"We get our spellbooks on Monday," Harry soothed. "Next weekend, we'll look through it and compare notes." Draco nodded, relaxing some. "I swear, nothing's going to hurt Ron."

Draco pinched him hard. "I'm sure she'll be protected, you won't protect yourself, Harry."

"Yes, Draco."

Draco groaned and tipped Harry's face up so he had to look at him. "I'm starting to agree with the twins. This low self-esteem of yours is wrong and damaging. Where is that cocky boy who teased me back?"

"He's tired."

"I know," Draco soothed, understanding it now. Ron wasn't the only one getting pushed into sacrificing himself. He laid them down, cuddling Harry closer. "We'll have to work on your occulemencary lessons this weekend," he said quietly.

"If you think it'd be fun," Harry agreed in a lighter tone of voice.

"I do. That way I can get into your head and rearrange things in there," Draco noted, giving him a squeeze. "Maybe I'll even bring out that side that you showed the Dark One when we faced him down."

"I've gotten yelled at so many times about that," Harry said quietly. "All the 'how could you's are coming back."

"Then we'll handle it," Draco assured him. Ron opened the curtains and crawled in. "Are they being pushy with you too?" Ron nodded and cuddled in behind Harry. "Done with your brother?"

"Until after dinner. He's thinking." Ron yawned. "I think I want a nap, I'll jump you both later."

"Sure, Ron." Harry patted his hand and waited until he heard the snoring. "This isn't good for him," he said quietly. Draco nodded. "I want him to drop out, just so he's safer."

"We'll see what we can do," Draco promised, giving him a kiss. "You rest as well. You could probably use the nap too." Harry nodded and snuggled in, falling asleep while Draco thought and made possible plans. He would not allow this to go on. He wouldn't see the world ended because someone was getting desperate.

***

Draco walked into the Captain's office, sitting himself down across from him without being told to. "I decided it was about time for us to talk," he said complacently. The Captain looked up at him and started. "Yes, it's me." He looked around the room while the man put down his pen. Then he looked at him again. "I know you did a pensive reading of Potter's history. Do you understand what you've seen?"

"The boy's a loose cannon," the Captain told him.

Draco held up a finger. "He's not actually. He is not going to be pushed into anything. He knows what he'll have to do. He's accepted it and made plans in case the worst happens. He's also made a long-term goal to give himself something to look forward to." He crossed his legs. "On the other hand, you've about sent him back into the state where he tried to cut off his scar and present it to someone. I can't allow that. Nor can I allow the world to end simply because you're in a blind panic because your numbers are too low. If you continue to push Potter and Weasley, you will find yourself in the same place Dumbledore is at the moment, without him." He stood up. "This is your only warning. My mates and I know about, and have many plans for, the next few battles. Potter has had to rely on himself for too long, and you're making sure he knows he can't trust you. Do the math and then choose wisely, because I can and will train him better than you ever will." He walked out, leaving before his husbands knew he was there.

Outside the bugler started Morning Wake Up. The Captain frowned and looked outside, then shook his head. "I can't do that, Mr. Malfoy," he said quietly. "I can't risk the world on the whims of a damaged individual." He picked up his pen and went back to writing in his journal, including this incident for future note.

***

Draco walked up to Molly Weasley in Gladrags after a short nap and tapped her on the shoulder. "He is," he said quietly. She looked at him and he nodded. "Both of them are emotionally weary."

"Then they'll have to drop out," Molly told him. "They'll kill him and he won't win. Why can't they see that?"

Draco shrugged. "They're panicking and they don't understand." He pulled a robe down and handed it to her. "For Ginny. She'll need something spectacular this year to make sure Longbottom comes back for the Yule Ball." He paid the salesgirl for it and then went up to make his other call, checking on Severus. He walked into the dungeons and saw the man working on something. "An interesting case?" he asked, making him jump. He leaned against the counter with an assured air. "What are you doing?"

"I was asked to brew something for someone," he told him. "How are you liking your life so far?"

"It's decent enough. So far I've hosted Bill Weasley for a few days so he and Ron could discuss things. I've had to talk Potter back from the edge of the path that led to his last snap. Ron as well." Snape flinched. "If you're brewing for someone over there, you should know I installed the suicide patch myself," he said blandly, glancing around the room. "When were you going to get around to cleaning up the ink on the walls from last year?" He looked back at his guardian again and saw him staring him down. Or attempting to. He smiled, a disarming attempt that worked well on Weasley when he was in a bad mood. "Yes, they're doing the same thing. Perhaps you, as someone who had experience in causing it, should send them a letter suggesting that they not force another one," he said quietly. "Because he will leave. Or he'll do something brash and crazy. You of all people now realize how he can be." He nodded at the military-issued pensive in the corner. "Theirs?"

Snape pressed his lips together and nodded. "I've already told them they're on the wrong path with him. They haven't listened."

"I noticed the good Captain didn't seem very interested in my opinion either this morning," he agreed. "But it will happen if it has to." He push off from the counter. "Would you like to take lunch with me?"

"If you want. In an hour?"

"That's fine. I'm sure Ron and Harry could use some treats," he said with a smile. "I'll meet you in town." He walked away, heading out through one of the hidden doorways Harry had shown him.

Snape leaned his head against the wall and took a few deep breaths to calm himself. He couldn't finish the compulsion potion now. The boy was right, it would cause another incident. He took it off the fire, adding the last few ingredients anyway. He could always store it for later use on a student. It took too long to make if he didn't have some on hand.

***

Harry flinched as their cellphone went off, knocking his opponent out before grabbing it and silencing it. The number came up as 'home' and he looked at the person putting them through their hand-to-hand drills. "It's probably an emergency, sir, may I?"

"You're not supposed to have muggle technology here," he said harshly. "What are you? A muggle!"

"No, but if it's the only way for me to stay connected with home, then I'm going to do it." He walked away, calling Draco. "What happened?" He listened, then groaned and one hand drifted up to grab his forehead. "I'll be right there." He hung up and looked at the Corporal. "Sir, Weasley and I need to head home immediately."

"Why? Can't live without sex?" he sneered.

"No, actually it's my dog." Ron looked at him as he walked over. "Apparently Snickers was so bored he got free, walked to the nearest neighbor, and picked up their dog like it was a toy to play with. They're talking about having him quarantined." Ron snorted but followed him back to the floo point. They headed for Malfoy Manor then for the new house, just in case they were being spied upon. Then Harry led the jog down to where he could feel Draco getting ready to snap. "What happened?" he asked as he joined them. "Snickers, put that dog down!" His dog put down the little beagle and gave him a pathetic look. "I know," he soothed, getting down to pet him. "I'm not paying enough attention to you, and I'm sorry." He gave him a good, long pet before looking at the people around them. "He has had his shots," he promised. "He's usually such a good dog, it's only because I've been at training so much."

The owner of the beagle sniffed. "Can you prove he's had his shots?"

"I can," Ron agreed. "His records are somewhere back at the house." Draco looked at him. "He came with his shot records."

"I had forgotten about that," Draco admitted. "We would be willing to get him another one if it'd make you feel better." The woman nodded. "That's fine."

"It won't hurt him?" Harry asked. One of the spectators shook his head. "Then that's fine. We'll do that this afternoon." He stood up and his dog gave him an adoring look. "Come on, let's go back to the house and then we'll head to the vet's this afternoon." Snickers trotted after him, happy that his master was home.

Ron grinned at the woman, one of his innocent, 'trust me I'm cute' look. "He really was looking for a playmate." He jogged off after Harry.

Draco shrugged. "It wasn't an attack, I tried to tell you that." He walked after his mates. There wasn't any way he was going to run. He walked into the house and found Harry kissing his dog. "I'm not kissing you until you've cleaned your face."

"That's fine," Harry agreed with a smile for him. "Thank you for the call."

"You're welcome." He patted Harry on the head. "Thank you for showing up. He nearly got taken in to be watched over for two weeks." Harry glared. "Standard procedure." He walked away, finding Ron in the fridge gulping juice. "Are you all right?"

"Fine," Ron panted during a breathing break. "Tired." He got a hug. "What's happened?"

Draco leaned against him. "I had a talk with Severus. They've asked him to make a compulsion formula." Ron dropped the carton of juice in his shock. Draco nodded. Snickers walked in and started to clean it up for them, Harry not far behind.

"What happened?" Harry asked.

Draco looked at him. "I learned earlier in the week that they're trying to get a compulsion formula mixed." Harry's mouth opened. "It's so complex that no one with skills less than the most well-trained master can make it, Harry. They couldn't do it themselves."

"I see." He looked at Ron. "What did Bill advise?"

"To get out. Tonks?"

"To run away and hide." Harry leaned against the counter, watching his dog slurp the spilled juice. "I want to talk to Mad Eye. He's been doing this forever, he knows the Captain personally." Ron nodded. Draco opened his mouth. "We've been aware that they're trying to brainwash us, Draco, and we've been fighting it. I simply need his opinion in the matter." He walked away, going to call Dumbledore. If anyone could find Moody, it'd be him. And possibly Remus as well.

Draco looked at Ron, who shrugged. "He's torn. He's got to fight, and he could use the training, but he doesn't want to give up what little he's managed to achieve so far."

"I'm little?"

"No, but in the grand scheme of having a life, picking your own spouse is an issue." Ron kissed him. "To the both of us." Draco hugged him. "I hate this patch."

"You only have to wear it while you're in training or if you think you're going to be attacked," Draco soothed. "The faster the Dark Lord dies, the sooner you can take it off." He kissed him gently. "Come on, we've got to plan for Harry's birthday party. It's a surprise," he said with a wink.

"All right." Ron followed him back to the living room so they could make plans.

***

Harry walked up to the muggle restaurant and sat down in the booth, smiling at the waitress as she walked over. "I only need a small salad and a coke." She nodded and walked off. Someone sat in the chair next to him and he looked over. "Moody," he said with a sigh of relief. "I need your opinion."

"How bad is it, Potter?"

Harry leaned closer since there were people around. "We were right to protect Ron," he said quietly. "The same as we were right to worry about me being considered a tool and not a soldier." Moody stiffened. "Then I found out today that they've tried to get Snape to make a compulsion formula."

Moody relaxed slightly but Harry could see his magic eye scanning the surroundings. "That wasn't the Captain."

"It wasn't?"

Moody shook his head. "That was the big man himself." He smiled as the waitress came back. "Tea?" She nodded and got him a cup, bringing it and leaving them alone. "That's a healthy and small lunch."

"It's my afternoon snack," Harry admitted. "I had lunch before we had to leave to care of a problem with Snickers."

"What's your dog doing now?"

Harry grinned. "He got loose and went to find a friend. Picked a beagle up by the back of the neck and carried it around like a lunch pail." Moody laughed, clapping him on the back. That's when Harry knew something was up, Moody never would have done that. But Moody was sneaky enough to have sent another member of the Order in his place, so it was still probably worthwhile to ask. "So we're going to vets to prove that there's nothing wrong with him in about an hour." He dug in, spearing a large bite of salad. "What do I do, Moody? Tonks warned me, Draco's pushy, and even Ron's worried."

Moody thought for a second. "There's no better training for combat," he said quietly. "But to risk you having another...episode means that we will all lose."

"I think we've all pointed that out to him, and he's not listening. I'm starting to feel put upon again," Harry admitted between bites. He looked at his mentor, who was looking disturbed. "I slept both of my weekends off so far. Couldn't get out of bed. I'm starting not to get up in the mornings again too." Moody nodded. "And I don't know what to do. I want to stay to get the training, but I can't stay with that going on." He quieted himself and shrugged. "Is there another option? Draco said he'd help us train."

"He probably could. You have some training, they were going to refine it for you." Moody leaned closer. "If it were me, I'd do whatever was going to bring back that cocky kid for the end of last school year." He grinned. "There's nothing prettier than the Headmaster when he's fluttering about complaining about your taste in friends. Though I should probably smack you around a bit for that stunt you pulled with *him*. It sent *him* into a rage of epic proportions." Harry grimaced. "That going to the strip clubs probably wasn't the most pure thing you could do with Ron."

"I thought you were going to yell about me going to see Voldie," Harry sighed in relief.

"Hell, no! That was inspired!" He laughed, clapping Harry on the back again. "Remus was right proud of you, Harry. The strip clubs made him groan and moan a bit, but then so did Ron's condition."

"Where is he? He didn't even leave me a letter the last time we ran into him at the school. I haven't heard from him in ages."

"He's safe and we're working on it. I'll tell him to send you a letter."

Harry looked at him, then he pulled something out his pants pocket and handed it over. "A muggle post office box," he said quietly. "I check it every few days." Mad Eye put it in his pocket with a nod. "Thank you."

"It's the least I can do, kid. You needed the help. If only so you don't try to remove the scar again. Head injuries bleed like crazy." He stood up and walked away.

Harry finished his salad and soda, thinking about the problem. He paid his check and went out to his car, finding the parking ticket on the hood. He frowned as he got in and looked at it. "I didn't think it had been," he said quietly. "I wonder how they got the polyjuice and fake eye though." He put the warning aside and started the car, following the directions on it to the new meeting place. He found the real Mad Eye waiting in the park on him and walked over, giving him a hug so he could whisper in his ear. Mad Eye laughed. "I need advice."

"You need the training," Mad Eye corrected.

"Without the added shit coming down, which I can't handle," Harry pointed out. The auror, the real one, nodded. "So?"

"I still say you need the training, but if they're pushing you like Dumble does, then I'd dump them." He stood up. "What else did you two talk about?"

"I wanted Remus to write me. I haven't heard from him in forever."

"He said he ran into you at the school, before you went and plagued Malfoy senior. Walk with me, Potter." They walked around the park. "Better to be a moving target."

"I know, and understand, but I can't stand some of the shit, Mad Eye. The whole first week was about sacrifice and duty. All while staring at me and Ron."

"Do they know about the patch?" Harry nodded. "Did the fake know?"

"I only mentioned us protecting him. It can be taken multiple ways."

"Good boy, Harry." He nodded at the far group of trees. "I'd go that way if I were you, and I would find out if I could do the same training on my own."

"That's part of what I needed to know," Harry pointed out. "You know what sort of training I'll need and I've only got vague ideas."

"Ah." Mad Eye gave him a smile, making him shudder. "Yes and no. Yes, you can be trained and you can learn the same things, but training with them means that you're going to have them at your back."

"No, they're not," Harry said, stopping to look at him. Mad Eye turned to look at him. "They're not behind me. There's only been one person who's tried to teach us anything and that's the combat instructor, Henderson. Everyone else has decided that we're tools of the system and should be treated like machines." Mad Eye nodded. "Is it supposed to be like that?"

"No, they're supposed to be telling you how to work as a team. Getting you up to speed and willing to go fight. The sacrifice thing is not standard, not even with the new rules. That's all the Captain's doing. Have you talked with him?"

Harry nodded. "I have, Draco did, everyone did. Um, did Dumbledore request the compulsion potion?" Mad Eye nodded. Harry smiled. "They're treating me just like he did last year."

Mad Eye shrugged. "Then I'd take the spellbook and run personally. You've got enough balls to get through most everything and a lot more combat experience than most recruits." He looked around then stepped closer. "I am proud of you, if not one else is," he said quietly. "You've become an incredible young man, Harry, and your mother would be very proud, even if your father would write you off as being too stiff to be fun." Harry's mouth opened. "Trust me, he would have. And remember, vigilance is everything." He walked away.

Harry walked toward the trees and found Remus sitting under one reading. "Hi."

Remus looked up at him, putting the book away. "How's the training?"

"It'd be better if I was getting trained," Harry said as he sat down. Remus frowned. "I've been told all about sacrifice and duty." The other man's face hardened. "That's why I wanted to talk to Mad Eye."

"I know it's hard, Harry," Remus said quietly, patting him on the hand. "Take the training and run."

"I'm about ready to just run."

"Can you train without them?" Harry shrugged. "Figure it out first." He gave him a hug. "That's for Ron when you see her next."

"She's mostly male today," Harry told him. "And hates being called a 'she', Remus." He grinned. "But I'll pass on the hug." Remus laughed, patting him on the hand again. "You're awfully calm."

"Molly made me drink a calming potion so I wouldn't go off on what happened to Ron," he admitted.

"That was the twins."

"Yes, but it was so very obvious that you've broken Ron in," Remus pointed out.

"Yeah, and the both of us are marked as well," Harry told him. Remus looked confused. "You didn't hear it all, did you?" He shook his head. "Dumbledore and Snape's big plan was to have Malfoy protect us since his father was the main changeling researching in the longest time." Remus opened his mouth. "He does an excellent job. He cares for us now." Remus swallowed and nodded. "He marked us first, then Ron's father found their family crest." He lifted the hem of his shirt and shifted so the marks were exposed. "See?"

Remus fought down the bout of panic that seeing the marks brought up. Now he knew why Molly had fed him the potion. He patted him on the hand. "Watch out for him, Harry. He's not changed that much from what some people have said," he said carefully, judging Harry by his response.

Harry shook his head. "He kept me from walking off after I snapped this spring, Remus. He does care for us."

"Still, can you trust him with Ron?" Harry nodded. "Are you sure he won't use it to his own ends?"

"How could he?" Harry asked. "He hasn't taken the Mark. He's gone with me and reviled the idiot with me. Hell, he's even gotten me drunk a few times and likes to spoil Ron with me." He grinned. "We're happy together, Uncle Remus. Even if you don't like him because of who his father is."

"I'm more worried about the blood telling, Harry," Remus pointed out. "He's still a crafty boy and he could be meaning to do you both harm to take over once the final battle's fought. Being beside you would get him there faster."

"You're being paranoid."

"Sometimes it's necessary, especially in today's life."

"He stuck up for me, Uncle Remus, even against Ron sometimes. Would he be nagging me about my low self-esteem if he wanted to toss me over?" Remus nodded. "Now I know why you haven't written," Harry said as he stood up. "It was nice seeing you again."

Remus caught him by the pants leg and pulled him back down, catching him before he could fall. "It's my job to watch out for you, Harry, you know that. With Sirius gone, it's only my job now."

"Then where have you been?" Harry asked quietly, getting free. He looked at the older man and saw the worry. "Ask Molly, Remus, she's talked with him a number of times so far. She knows he's not going to harm us."

"If you say so; I'll keep my opinion on the matter to myself for now," Remus said gently, giving him a smile. "Don't be mad, Harry, I'm only trying to do what's best for you."

Harry leaned closer. "He cares for me, Remus, which is more than I can say about nearly everyone else in my life." He saw the pain and corrected it. "Most people see me as a tool or some tragic hero, you and Ron, plus most of his family not counting. At least Draco and Ron want to get to know me as a person. Draco is very sweet to me and he's constantly on me to be myself because it makes me happier."

"Then I'm happy for you," Remus told him, giving him a pat on the cheek. The boy looked so sure so he would keep his own council for now, until he had watched them together for himself. "Now, tell me about what's been going on in your training."

Harry settled in to explain it to him. Remus usually gave decent advice.

***

Harry looked up from his plate as someone rang the bell. He glanced at the clock, then at Draco. "Friends?" he suggested.

Draco wiped his mouth off and got up to answer it. The house elf was staring at the man, jabbering that they were eating. "It's fine," he told it. It bowed and ran off. "What do you want?" he asked, looking over the uniform. "Potter and Weasley are eating, they weren't supposed to show up until after dinner."

"That would be rather hard to do since the camp got attacked," the auror said as he walked in and shut the door. "Where are they?"

"In the dining room," Draco said with a frown, leading the way. "The camp was attacked," he announced as he walked in.

"Is everyone all right?" Harry asked, putting down his water glass. "Was anyone hurt seriously?"

"No, there were a few people killed, but no one had any serious injuries beyond that," the auror said. "I'm with Internal Affairs, boys."

Ron swallowed his present bite of roast. "We weren't there."

"I know. I need to know why." He sat down across from them. "What was so important that you had to break the 'no muggle technology' rule?"

"The Captain knew we had the phone," Ron told him, pointing with his fork.

"It rang because I had to come explain my familiar," Harry said, pointing at his dog. "It decided to kidnap a neighbor's dog."

"Your nearest neighbor is over three miles away."

Draco cleared his throat. "Harry has another residence and we were there earlier," he said. "The dog got loose there."

"They flooed here," the auror told him.

Ron snorted. "Yeah, so we can hide that place. Think about how many people will try to bother Harry and me if they knew where we lived in our off times." He sipped his water and looked at Draco, then at the auror. "Who attacked?"

"A group of people wanting initiation. They weren't looking for Mr. Potter, they were looking for you, Mr. Weasley," he told him. Ron looked stunned. "Why would that be?"

"He's a changeling," Harry breathed. "They know that though and haven't tried anything so stupid before!" He stood up and started to pace. "This makes no sense. Voldemort wouldn't risk his newest candidates that way unless he wanted them gone. The attack on the school this spring made some sense, though it was a futile gesture. That doesn't make any sense at all. Draco?"

Draco shook his head. "It doesn't to me either. Nothing about this jives with what my father used to say about him or his cohorts." He sipped his wine then put the glass back down. "Are you sure they were Death Eater candidates?"

"He could have sent them there to make sure they died," Ron pointed out. "Getting rid of the useless. Sending candidates against a bunch of aurors would let them take out some of the enemy while wasting their lives. It's almost efficient if you want to look at it that way."

The auror nodded. "We thought that might be the case. We have one person who still needs identified. They're about your age."

"I'll go," Draco told him. He looked at Harry, then at Ron, both of whom looked sickened. "They've got weaker stomachs."

"Are we to report back tonight?" Ron asked. The auror shook his head. "Then tell us when."

"It'll be a few days," he said as he stood up. "Go ahead and floo the new Captain. He'll need to know how to get in touch with you." Harry nodded stiffly. "Thank you, gentlemen. Try to stay here." He followed Draco to the floo.

Ron looked at Harry, watching him pace for a few moments before putting in a few quiet words. "That's fishy."

"It is," Harry agreed thoughtfully. "Very fishy. I'm wondering if he has spies there."

"He probably does," Ron agreed. He looked around, then grabbed Draco's wine to take a long drink, handing the rest to Harry. "Here, you look like you need it."

Harry looked at him. "Mad Eye, and the fake Mad Eye, both encouraged me to quit," he told him. He finished off the wine. "Remus went off on Draco and warned me to watch him." Ron snorted. "He thinks Draco wants to become the next Dark Lord, using us to defeat Voldemort so he can take over."

"That's ridiculous," Ron pointed out.

"That's what I said," Harry agreed as he sat down. He took off his glasses so he could rub his eyes. "I'm just so tired, Ron. I don't know what to do."

"We'll see if this has made anything change. If not, then we'll quit," Ron soothed, reaching over to touch his arm. Harry nodded but didn't look at him. "If it does change things, it might get better. We might actually get the training we need."

"Hopefully," Harry agreed in a near-whisper. "I don't think I can take much more of this, Ron. This whole war needs to end."

Ron nodded. "I know, Harry. We could always plan some sort of preemptive strike. Maybe attack him one night like the last time, only this time with fatal wounds?"

"Why didn't I kill him then? I could have."

"Because you're a decent sort and killing someone is wrong," Ron noted. "It's a fight you'll have to win with yourself some day, but not yet. Soon though, huh?" Harry looked at him and smiled. "We'll do whatever we have to, Harry. Don't worry about that." Draco came back and fell into his chair. He was pale and shaking. "Harry, brandy," he ordered. Harry went to get it while Ron wet a napkin and wiped Draco's face for him. Draco's eyes shifted to look at him. "Who?"

"Goyle," he whispered. Ron hugged him. "Thank you." He accepted the large snifter of brandy and gulped it. "We're going to have to do something."

"We are," Harry agreed. He straightened up under Draco's look. "We need to talk anyway. Some people seem to think that you're going to become the Dark Lord after I defeat him."

Draco laughed bitterly. "Why would I want every petty wannabe in the universe gunning for me?" he asked derisively. "Ron, get off." Ron quit hugging him. "Who decided that?"

"Remus," Harry told him. "I defended you," he said at the opening mouth. "I told him that you cared for us and that there wasn't any hint that he was right. He's decided to give up and just watch us for now." He shrugged. "I thought you'd want to know."

"I do," Draco agreed, pulling him closer to give him a kiss on the cheek. "He's wrong of course, but thank you for giving me more bad news." He stood up. Harry opened his mouth. "I know, you're trying to be honest, but I can't take much more tonight. I'm going to take a long, hot bath. If you want, finish dinner. Send Vincent up to me when he gets home so I can tell him." He walked away.

Harry hung his head. "I'm sorry, Draco," he called. "I didn't mean to add to it."

Draco came back and hugged him. "I know, it's the same problem as you not being very good with people." He walked away again, this time heading for the door that had just slammed. The new couple was standing chatting in the doorway. "Vincent."

"Draco," he said, turning to look at him. All the happiness fled. "Ron?"

Draco shook his head. "No, an attack earlier while they were here. Goyle." Vincent went limp and Hermione had to support him. "And his father. They had them laid out together."

"That fucking bastard!" Vincent yelled. "I'll kill him myself!" Hermione let him go when he started to struggle. "Why?" Draco shrugged. "We don't know anything?"

"Not yet. We just found out ourselves. The auror came to tell Harry and Ron," he told him blandly. "I went to identify so they didn't have to." Crabbe nodded, starting to sweat. "Run and get sick," he told him, getting out of the way. "We'll plan what to do about this later. After we make arrangements for their burials." He looked at Hermione. "The others are in the dining room."

"Thank you, Draco." She gave him a short hug. "I'm sorry for your loss." She went to talk to Harry and Ron, knowing they were upset and needed her too. She found Vincent leaning against the bathroom door first. "Occupied?"

"I'm trying to keep it inside, it's not manly," he said, pulling her closer. He buried his nose against her neck and took deep sniffs. "I'm sorry we ended our date like this," he whispered when he was more calm.

She patted him gently, then stroked down his back. "We're in the middle of a war, Vinnie. It happens to everyone at least once. We'll all end up losing someone we care about. We can only hope it's not those closest to us." He nodded and clutched her tighter. "It's all right, I promise. I'll help make the arrangements if you need it and I'll be beside you the whole time." He nodded again, clutching her tighter.

Ron walked out of the dining room and gave them a sad smile. "I'm sorry, Vinnie." He got shrugged at. "I know you guys were friends for a long time and it's got to be hard. If you want to talk, you can always find me."

"Thanks, Ron," he mumbled into her neck.

Ron walked off, going to find Draco. He found him in the study having another large brandy and put his arms around his waist, cuddling up to his back. "I'm sorry, Draco."

"I knew it would probably happen. He relied on the wrong things during fights. His father was the same way," he admitted, turning to hold his husband. "I'm not the bad guy."

"I know. So does Harry, he didn't mean to tell you like that."

"No, it was right to tell me. And doing so now gives me another thing to think about instead of berating myself over how I could have gotten him free of them." He leaned his head on Ron's shoulder. "I don't like war."

"Neither do we," Ron soothed. "We'll do whatever we can to help you through this, Draco. No matter what."

Draco nodded. "Thank you." He gave him a squeeze. "How is Vincent?"

"Cuddling Hermione close enough to crack ribs," Ron said with a smile. Draco smiled back. "Go lounge in the water, let Harry apologize. He feels rotten."

"It's not his fault," he noted, walking away. He found Harry drawing him a bath and gave him a hug as well. "I'm sorry I snapped at you," he whispered. "You were only trying to tell me that there were other problems." Harry nodded, turning to hold him. "We're still fine, everything will go back to normal in a few days."

"I hope so. That and I hope they kick us out," Harry whispered.

Draco pulled back. "Instead of quitting?" He got a nod. "Well, that might happen," he agreed. "Bathe with me? You're very comforting in the water."

"Are you sure? I can get Ron for you," Harry offered.

"If I had wanted Ron, I'd have asked him," Draco said dryly. "Why do you do that?" Harry turned to fiddle with the faucets. "No, look at me," he demanded, turning off the water and forcing Harry to look at him. "Why do you do that?"

"Do what?"

Draco frowned. "Don't think about escaping this conversation, Potter. I want to know why you always put yourself down."

Harry opened his mouth. Then he shook his head and closed it. "It's stupid."

"Probably, but in order for me to counter it, I've got to hear it. So give."

Harry looked down again. "You're only with me because I was with Ron, he forced you to."

Draco snorted and shook his head. "You dumbass." Harry looked at him, looking a little hurt. "I had no intention of taking you on but I did it only because Ron would have felt more comfortable with me?" Harry nodded. "Then you really aren't as smart as everything thinks you could be." He sat on the edge of the tub and forced Harry to sit on his thigh. "Would I have taken you to bed if that were the case?" Harry shrugged and nodded. "You think so? I would have treated someone I did that to the same?"

"I guess," Harry admitted.

"Then perhaps you should go talk with Vincent." He pushed Harry up. "He can prove to you that it's not like that. Go." He shooed him. "Go talk to him and come back when you've got your head straightened out. I'll expect an apology for such insulting thoughts." Harry opened his mouth again. "Go!"

Harry walked out, trudging down to Vincent's room. He knocked gently and Hermione opened the door. "Is Vinnie in here? Draco ordered me to talk to him."

"He's in the bathroom. You can wait in his room and I'll get us something to nibble on," she decided after having seen the defeated look on his face. "Whatever it is, I'm sure he understands, Harry."

"How can he when I don't?" he asked.

"I'll take a long time." She closed the door behind her.

Vincent came out and looked at him. "What happened now?"

"I told Draco I thought he only liked me because Ron insisted," Harry admitted, still looking down at his feet. "He ordered me to talk to you."

"Those relatives of yours should be shot, Potter," Vincent decided as he walked over and dragged Harry to the settee he had stolen from downstairs. "Sit!" Harry sat and looked at him. "If Draco had only done it for that reason, he wouldn't have taken you to his bed, wouldn't humor you when you're in one of your odd and bouncy moods, and he definitely wouldn't be sharing Ron with you."

"But it makes Ron happy."

Vincent laughed oddly. "Trust me, it's not true." He took off his shirt and pointed at a scar on his shoulder. "If he only wanted you around because of Ron, and Ron insisted you come into their bed as well, you'd have marks like this. Draco gets ...harsher when he's in it for the stress relief. He draws a clear and distinct line between his personal enthusiasms and stress relief, and the line is physical contact. He doesn't touch *anyone* he's sleeping with for that reason except when necessary. No cuddling, no kissing, none of it. Stress relief is in and out, and then you're done and gone to him." Harry nodded and looked down again. "Why do you think that way?"

"I don't know. It's the little voice in the back of my head I guess," he said as the tapping, irritated foot started. He looked up at him, seeing the understanding. "It's like everyone wants something from me, except for a very few people and I have a hard time distinguishing sometimes."

"Yeah, I can see that. You're you and you're a hero. Big whoop." Harry smiled at that. "So? Has Draco done that?"

"The second time we met," Harry told him. "The first time he tried to chat me up, just in case I was the right sort."

"Pfft. At eleven Draco was as much a tool as people are trying to make you." He sat down beside him. "I think you need professional help. Draco may not always be the nicest creature in the world, but if you think he's with you out of some sort of obligation to Ron, you really need a professional to talk to."

Harry shrugged. "Maybe I do. Everyone seems to think I'm crazy anyway."

"Have I said that?"

Harry looked at him. "Not recently."

"See, not everybody." He gave the guy a shoulder squeeze. "I don't know what they did to you, Harry, but they were wrong. One hundred percent wrong. Everything they told you was wrong. The same as nearly everything Aunt Narcissa said about me was wrong. Get over it already and move on. Their opinion shouldn't matter." He smiled as Hermione walked in. "Did you have to deal with this often?"

"Sometimes." She set the tray of drinks down. "Harry, they were wrong. You are loveable, worthy, and very normal. You're only lazy when the mood takes you and you can't fight it off, or when Ron's got the ice cream out, and you're worth more than nearly everyone. Now go apologize and let Draco talk you out of this current funk." He nodded and walked out, leaving them alone. She sighed. "There have been a number of days when I wanted to slap his aunt, this is just another to add to the tally," she told herself.

"She was that bad?"

Hermione looked at him, then at the door, casting a shielding over it so they couldn't be eavesdropped on. Then she snuggled in beside him. "Harry Potter the early years consists of tales of child abuse, child neglect, and being locked in a closet." He opened his mouth and she kissed him gently. "He has these moments for a reason, but he's getting better. He was shocked his first year at school during Christmas because someone gave him a present. The boy never had a friend until he got to Hogwarts. He also never had anything that wasn't a hand-me-down until then either. And his cousin was twice your width and then some." Vincent swallowed. "So, yes, we've had this sort of discussion before." She hesitantly touched the mark on his shoulder. "What's that from?"

"Draco's teeth." She looked concerned. "Stress relief, nothing more," he assured her. She nodded and relaxed. He smiled and kissed the side of her head. "Most girls would have run away screaming if they knew I had been used that way."

"I figure he didn't know any better and that was in the past," she said firmly. "If it happens again, I'm going to beat him up." He laughed and hugged her. "You think I'm kidding, but I'm not. I'll wear out all my anger at Potter's Aunt and Uncle on him."

"I'm sure he'd be shaking if he heard you," he soothed, gentling her back into their earlier cuddling. "Thank you for telling me, Hermione."

"You're welcome. You're working with him and I think it's only fair that you realize how fragile that boy can be." She snuggled in closer, leaning against his chest. "I hope Draco understands."

"He will. Aunt Narcissa was a bitch, even to him sometimes." He kissed her hair again. "Thank you for deciding to stay until after the funeral."

"You need me, Vincent, that's all I need to know," she said, patting him on the thigh.

***

Harry walked into the Master Suite and stripped, then padded into the bathroom, slipping quietly into the water. "I'm sorry, Draco."

"I know you are. Do you realize now?" Harry slid closer, nodding against his chest once he was cuddled up to him. "Are you sure?"

"Yeah, Vincent told me off." He closed his eyes. "Hermione got into the act too."

"I thought she might." He put an arm around Harry's waist, holding him in place so he could look at him. "Look at me." Harry looked up at him. "Do you want to talk about it?" Harry shook his head. "You should."

"If I do it hurts more. I'd rather forget it."

"If you try, then it crops up at odd times, like earlier." He gave him a soft kiss on the forehead. "Tell me," he encouraged. Harry shook his head again. "I'll have to ask Hermione then."

"She'll rant."

"I've lived through one of those aimed at me, I'm sure I can survive this one." Harry shook his head. "Fine, then you should tell me."

"I don't want to talk about it." He started to move but Draco held him in place. "I'll let you bathe."

"No, you're staying. We'll talk about something else for a bit." Harry shifted so he kissed him. "What did you want to do if you don't become an auror?"

"I was going to train until that fight, then decide," Harry admitted. "That way I don't have to disappoint a boss too."

"That's fine," Draco agreed, starting to look concerned. If Harry had been watching him, he would have been frowning at the frown Draco was giving him. "I'll show you where the Dark Arts section is tomorrow if you want." Harry nodded, curling up on his chest. "You nap," he soothed, stroking his back. That was the fastest way to make him go to sleep. When he heard the snores, he rang the little bell, bringing one of the house elves. "Find Ron and tell him to come up and bring me a drink," he ordered. The house elf nodded and disappeared, going to do that.

Ron walked in a few minutes later, looking at Harry. His curled up, protecting-himself position said it all to him. "Another bout of self doubt?"

Draco nodded, continuing to stroke Harry's back. "I think it's time you told me everything."

Ron skimmed off his clothes and climbed in beside him, curling up on his free side. "I only know some of it, Draco. And most of that my mother probably told you."

"She told me things, a list of what she knew. Not details."

"Oh." Ron nodded and kissed the top of Harry's head, making him shift. "Harry, I'm going to tell him why we were in the flying car," he whispered. Harry patted him and he smiled. Ron looked at Draco. "That summer, Dobby left here to stop Harry from going back to school. He knew that your father was going to try and hurt him. So Dobby did things like do magic in the Dursley's house, which got blamed on Harry of course." Draco nodded, shifting a little bit. Ron waited until Harry had shifted himself and started to snore again. "After that happened, the Dursleys locked him in his room, putting bars on the windows and a little cat flap on the door so they could shove food in. Which they did infrequently." Harry mumbled something. "Sorry, they fed him regularly, but mostly a sandwich at best." Draco stiffened. "When we went to get him, we were in the flying car, me and the twins. We had to break the bars off the window and had to nearly beg Harry to come out. He was scared of his uncle, Draco. Too scared to move." Draco shook his head. "The next year, Dudley went on a diet, so everyone in the house went on it."

"Harry didn't need to lose weight after his second year," Draco pointed out.

"They decided it would avoid temptation. Harry lived on basically a sliver of grapefruit three times a day until he wrote to us and we sent him food." Draco groaned. He kissed him. "That's not the worst." Draco looked at him. "You know those confinement dreams he has?" Draco nodded slowly, he'd been thrashed off the bed a few times by them. "Until he got his first school letter, he was living in a small cupboard under the stairs," Ron said quietly. "Being their house elf basically." Harry was handed over and Draco got out of the tub, pacing out into their bedroom. "It's still for sale if you wanted to look," he called.

Draco came back. "It hasn't sold yet?"

"The housing market's down," Ron reminded him. "We could call and go around it, I can show you if you want." He stroked and petted Harry, making him let go of his chest. "Shh, Harry, you sleep." Harry mumbled something and eased up a bit. "It won't help getting mad now, Draco, but you've got to understand how his mind works."

Draco nodded. "I want to see this house."

"We'll head over tomorrow. What did you want to do?"

Draco climbed back in. "There are scene recreation spells," he said quietly, looking down at Harry. "I'm going to show him the Dark Arts section tomorrow morning and we'll go out then."

"Sure." Ron let him snuggle in again and got comfortable. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm pissed at a few different sources at the moment," Draco admitted. "I'm trying to decide which ones I want to smite first."

"I meant about Goyle."

"Greg was gone a long time ago," Draco pointed out, leaning his head on Ron's shoulder. "I miss the friend I grew up with, but he's been gone for a while. I'll mourn him with the others. He and Vincent were closer."

"I'm sure Hermione has him well in hand." Draco snorted but he smiled up at him. "I'm sure she does. She's very pushy when she thinks it'll do someone good." He shifted Harry up onto his other shoulder, waking him. "Hey. Do you feel better now that you've had a nap?" Harry nodded and yawned. "Why don't you crawl into the bed, Harry, we'll be in soon." Harry nodded and got out, padding in to climb in, barely taking the time to dry himself off.

"Good thinking, the sheets will be dry by the time we get in there," Draco said happily.

Ron kissed him harder. "You can't tell him you went there. He doesn't like to talk about it."

"I noticed."

"Promise me, Draco."

"I won't tell him I know more. Only that you told me about the flying car if he gets suspicious."

"Thank you." Ron leaned against him, getting comfortable. "His birthday's in two days."

"We need to get him something that shows we want him here," Draco agreed, knowing what Ron was thinking.

"I'm sure we'll find something tomorrow." He smiled. "No chocolate though, I'm tired of chocolate."

"If that's what you want," Draco agreed, stroking Ron's back gently to calm both of them.

***

Harry waved as his two husbands walked out together, going to find him a birthday present. He had a large book of spells to look through and he was content for now. At least he was until Vincent came in. "Hi."

"Morning," he said, handing over the paper. He watched as Harry read, then as the paper was dropped. "I think you might want to do something about that."

"I'm sure I do, but the pensieve only caught my last two years," Harry told him, staring up at him. "When did that come?"

"A bit ago. It hadn't been read yet."

"Vincent?" Hermione called.

"In here," he called back. "Discussing the paper." She walked in, looking confused. "During the attack, someone stole the pensieve from the auror training camp."

"That makes more sense than randomly attacking it," she pointed out, picking up the paper to read. "Oh, Harry," she sighed, hugging him immediately. "Where are Draco and Ron?"

"Heading to town," he told her. "To get me a birthday present." He shook himself. "There's nothing really damning is in there, Hermione, it's all right. I'm simply going to hide here until it's over with." She nodded, giving him a pitying look. "Don't look at me like that," he said coolly as he went back to his reading. "Go eat or something."

"Sure, Harry," she agreed, pulling Vincent with her. She reread the article and shuddered. "They didn't get much information," she agreed. He looked at her. "There's worse, Vinnie, trust me." She walked over to the other floo fireplace and bent down, tossing in some powder. "The Burrow." Molly's head appeared. "Have you burned the paper yet today?" she asked. Molly grimaced. "They didn't get much," she pointed out.

"Arthur said Fudge is already up in arms about this," she said gently, glancing around. "Where is Harry?"

"Reading in another room. He got his usual horrified look when it was shown to him. Said he's not moving for the day."

"I can understand that." Molly nodded a few times. "I'll talk with Arthur but we may be over later. Where's Ron?"

"Out shopping with Draco for a birthday present according to Harry," Vincent put in. Molly smiled at him. "Harry insists that we can't have a party but Draco said we are."

"I've gotten an invitation already," she assured him. "We'll be up in a bit probably." Her head disappeared.

Hermione stood up. "This is bad," she said quietly. Vincent looked at her. "That was fake cheer from Molly Weasley. This is really bad."

He gave her a hug. "We'll survive and fight on," he promised.

***

Draco smiled at the realtor. "We'll just wander around ourselves," he told her. She nodded and retreated to the front stoop to let them look in peace. He looked at Ron. "Where should we start?"

Ron pointed at a small door on the side of the stairwell. "Start there, that's where his day normally started."

Draco pulled out the copy of the scene recreation spell, casting it on the door. They watched as a young boy slid out of it and went into the kitchen, following him. It stayed with only him in view until Draco did the spell for this room, then they saw the rest of the family. Ron turned away after a few moments, going to look around and make sure nothing of Harry's had been left. Draco watched with clinical interest, frowning as the boy's image wavered, becoming an older shadow. According to the spell that meant that this scene was repeated at least once exactly. He canceled them both and walked up the stairs, frowning at the catflap still on one door. It had to have been Harry's room. He walked in there and recast the spell, noticing a flickering again. Him hoarding food. Bars on the windows faded in an out, but the boy shifted age back and forth. He canceled it because he was now sick and went to find Ron. Ron was staring in the small cupboard, not moving. "We'll help him," he said quietly, patting Ron on the back. He glanced inside then closed the door for him, walking him away. He smiled for the realtor's benefit. "We'll consider it. It does need some renovation," he pointed out.

"Yes, that room upstairs was used by a problem child," she admitted. "Bad behavioral problems and the like."

Ron looked at her. "I know the kid who used to live in that room. He's never been a problem child." He walked over to the car and got in, buckling himself in.

Draco looked at the shocked woman, pulling his wand stealthily. "Obliviate," he said before hurrying to the car. He climbed in and they went to the park to wander around and talk. "Ron?"

Ron looked at him. "Now you know." Draco nodded. "And you still can't let on that you know."

"I realize why he had that bout last night too. We'll have to do something about that soon."

Ron leaned over to hug him. "We need to get him something to prove that he belongs to us, Draco. Nothing else will do this time." He saw an owl winging their way. "Mail," he said, pointing at it.

Draco got out and sat on the hood, waiting on the owl. It dropped the letter and flew off. He opened it to read privately, frowning at the contents. As soon as he had sat down, Ron stole it from him. "We won't have to pretend that hard."

Ron blanched. "We should head home." He crumpled up the letter from Arthur Weasley about the content of the morning's paper and tossed it onto the floor of the car.

"Ron, can I suggest something outrageous?"

"Sure. What?"

"Let him handle it for now. He's probably fuming and doesn't want to be around anyone. He gets like that when people find out what his home life was like. For now, we'll take an hour and find him the perfect birthday present, then go home and act like we just got it. We'll be very sorry that someone invaded his privacy that way and vow to help him fight back." Ron nodded. "Nothing further unless he asks. If he wants to be soothed, he can come to us this time. It'll make him feel like he can trust us." Ron slumped down but nodded. "Good boy. Where should we go shopping?"

"Harrods? Or Diagon?"

"Or both," Draco decided. He started the car and pulled out of the parking lot, heading for their first destination. They missed the person who took their picture as they got out of the car in front of the Leaky.

***

Ron walked into the manor and found Harry in the same spot, still reading. He walked up and kissed him on the forehead. "I just found out," he whispered. "Are you okay?"

"I'm pissed," Harry told him, giving him a clearly attempted brave smile. "How was your trip?"

"Informational," Ron said with a grin. He sat in Harry's lap, giving him a real hug. "Is there anything we can do? Beat them up for you, send nasty letters, anything?"

"No, I'm hoping it'll die down," Harry admitted, taking comfort from the holding. "Where's Draco?"

"Looking for Vincent. He's now more determined to give you a real birthday party." He smiled at the frown. "Give it up, it's his way of trying to coddle you."

"I guess that's fine, but I don't want people to stare at me," Harry told him.

"I know, and they won't." He stole a kiss and stood up. "Come see what the naughty git bought me this time?" Harry put down the book and allowed himself to be led upstairs so he could see the new lingerie. Ron laid it out on the bed and waved a hand. "See? He's got bonkers."

Harry laughed, looking at the harem outfit. "Where did he find that?"

"In Knockturn, that's why the trip was so informational," Ron told him. Harry laughed and hugged him hard. "There's a whole shop down there with costumes in it."

"Maybe we can talk him into one," Harry said with a wink.

"Maybe," Ron agreed. He smiled at Draco as he walked in. "He likes the outfit you decided on, but he wants to see you in one as well."

"I could dress up like a sheik I suppose," Draco agreed. He walked over and hugged Harry between his and Ron's bodies. "Should we plan a raid on them as well?"

"No, I've already sent off a howler to the editor," Harry admitted. "Citing privacy and them stealing information from Death Eaters. Of course I insinuated that they were Death Eaters. I'm sure that'll go over well," Harry said with a small smirk. "Did you buy him any other costumes?"

"Just this one for now. He's to wear it after your birthday party." Harry chuckled and nuzzled Ron's throat. "I thought you might like that."

"It'll be a good end to all those people staring at me," Harry agreed. Draco picked him up and tossed him onto the bed. "Hey!"

"I didn't get any sex this morning, Harry, and it's your turn to pleasure me." Draco stripped down and let Ron move his outfit out of the way, then climbed in and stuck his cock in the waiting mouth. "Much better," he purred.

Ron shook his head. "You're amazing, Malfoy. One of these days you'll find that you're impotent from having too much sex in your youth."

Draco looked over his shoulder at him. "The human body doesn't work that way," he countered with a smug smile. "No matter what your parents tell you." He looked down at the light kiss. "Aren't you enjoying it?"

"I'd enjoy it a lot more if I were made to howl and thrash," Harry offered.

"I believe I can do that," Draco agreed, pulling back so he could take Harry's clothes off him. The metallic blue shirt's buttons gave him some problems so he ripped it. "It's a good thing I never liked that shirt," he said with a faint smirk and a dangerous glint in his eyes.

"Draco! I liked it," Harry reminded him.

Draco leaned down and captured his mouth. "Yay. I'll buy you something more pleasing to the both of us." He nipped the lower lip then shifted backwards to deal with the stubborn pants.

Ron helpfully did the stripping charm and got out of the way. He laughed all the way down the stairs, going to find Hermione. "I take it you saw?" he asked as he joined them in the kitchen. Vincent nodded. "So did we." He sat down between them. "Harry's birthday is still on," he said quietly. "Draco's putting him into a better mood right now, and we're going to be noisy that night. Fair warning," he said with a grin when Hermione looked at him.

"I'm sure he'll be too busy to protest much," Hermione said, patting him on the hand. "We'll make sure we can't listen."

Ron beamed. "Draco decided I needed costuming for after Harry's party."

Vincent shivered. "Ron, don't share that much. I'll get mental images and have to talk Hermione into it."

She smiled sweetly at him. "Fantasies are for bored couples," she assured him. "By the time you talk me into bed with you, we won't need them." He choked and stared at her, so she gave him her most innocent look. "What?" she asked.

Ron giggled like a hyena on crack. "You are so bad sometimes, Hermi." He kissed her on the cheek. "Go for him girlfriend, he could use the run."

She licked the jam off her lips. "I can do that," she agreed. Vincent stood up and ran off. She took one last sip of her coffee and got up to follow after him, walking sedately. He'd run out of steam soon enough.

Ron leaned on the table and laughed some more. Those two were so cute sometimes!

***

Dumbledore walked into the auror's meeting room and paused to look at the man in chains sitting behind the table. "You had me sent for?" he asked calmly, sitting across from him.

"I'm only the messenger," the girl said, smiling like she was insane - which was quite possible. "The messenger to remind you that you're falling behind in your end of the war," she said in a sing-song voice. "You haven't made a truce and the Dark One thinks you're kidding." She laughed like a hyena at the disgust on his face. "You're not the danger you think you are. That boy's all alone," she sighed in happiness. "All for us." He let out something that sounded like a growl. "You can't help him, only hurt him, and we all know you're not going to get him back." She giggled again because the disgust came back. Then she crunched on something. "Just the messenger, just the messenger, just the messenger. Bang!" she said before falling over dead.

Dumbledore stood up. "She did something," he called. Aurors rushed in and checked her over, shaking their heads at their boss. Dumbledore looked at the head auror. "Did you hear?"

He nodded. "It was noted that Potter did declare his own side to the war," he said gently. Dumbledore's mind must be going, this man used to count heavily on the boy during their meetings. "Albus, what changed?" he asked once they were alone. "Why did the boy quit?"

"Because we imposed a bit too much and he decided he'd rather be alone," Dumbledore told him, walking out to go sulk and think.

The head auror shook his head, staring at the doorway. "You mean you pushed and he snapped, just like he did at the camp," he said grimly. "Now I know we were dumb and why. I can't think of a way to fix it though, not without compromising the training program." He frowned as he walked back to his office. He walked back to his secretary's desk. "Send Mr. Potter two complete auror training sets," he ordered quietly. "Everything, all the field manuals." She looked stunned. "Now." She nodded and wrote the note, sending it to the person in charge of the stores. He went to his office and had a large, strong drink.

***

Dumbledore walked into the present house the Order was using, slamming the door. He was in a foul mood now and not in the mood for crap. He saw Remus and glared at him. "Find a way to get Potter back," he ordered.

Remus chuckled. "Not a chance, Albus; that boy was never taught to give second chances. I'm surprised he's still writing me after I impinged Draco's honor." He curled up a bit more. "What was said?"

"Voldemort sent someone to tell us that we needed a formal truce with Harry and his family," he said quietly, still upset. "That we weren't considered part of the fight because he had left us."

"Molly warned you," Arthur pointed out gently from further down the hallway. Dumbledore looked at him. "She warned you time and again not to push the boy, to nurture and make sure he was treated like a real boy, not like a toy." He gave a little shrug. "Harry said he's going to set up a formal truce, we can ask Ron if he knows when. It can only help us to share the information we have."

"Fine, talk to your son. He may be the only Order member that will ever see Mr. Potter again."

Arthur smiled and shook his head. "We see him during meals quite often. Draco makes sure Ron spends a lot of time with us so we don't storm his house." He walked off, going to write his son about this. It probably wasn't a good time with that article being put out, but then again maybe it would give the boy some stability.

Dumbledore sat down to brood, worrying over his past mistakes. "How did I not see this coming?" he asked himself.

Molly walked in and handed him a mug of tea. "Because you saw the war, not the boy," she said firmly. "If you had seen the boy instead of the boy-wonder, then he'd be here and we'd be training him ourselves." She left him with his thoughts.

He stared at an ugly picture as he thought. He had truly messed up and the war might be lost because they couldn't work together. The boy would never trust him now.

***

Draco woke up from his post-sex nap at the yell, frowning at the doorway. "What the fuck was that!" he yelled.

"Sorry, Draco!" came floating from the hallway.

He got out of the bed and grabbed his robe, walking out to see who had been screaming. "Did you step on her?" he asked his best friend. Crabbe gave him a grin and a wink before opening his door and carrying her in there. The lock was clearly thrown and he felt a silencing spell go up. "Well," he said with a frown. He walked back into his room, but he had been alone in the bed apparently. So he went hunting for his lovers. He found them together in the kitchen with Ron's mother and all the older brothers, except Percy. "Excuse me," he said, tugging Ron up and towing him off. "I'll bring him right back." He walked Ron into the nearest bedroom and slammed the door. "I just saw Vincent carrying Hermione into their room. She was over his shoulder and laughing," he reported.

"Good," Ron said with a smirk. "Sometimes she needs someone to hold her down and force her to feel the pleasure." Draco's mouth fell open. "We were involved for a bit," he reminded him. Ron looked thoughtfully at the ceiling. "She always hated it when I got her off by licking or nibbling. Thought it was odd." He shrugged. "I hope he can break her of that thought. She does deserve to have the multiple times that I get."

Draco stopped him by kissing him. "Suck, now," he demanded. Ron smirked at him as he slowly sank to his knees and sucked him into his mouth. He sighed and tipped his head back. "Much better," he decided. Ron laughed. "You, do more or I'm going to rev Harry up and watch him attack you tonight." Ron swallowed him and all was right with his world.

Someone knocked on the door a few minutes later. "Draco, Ron?" Charlie called. He opened it and peeked inside. "Ooh! Sorry!" He walked out and jogged back to the kitchen, his face so red it matched his hair. "They're involved."

"They usually are," Fred agreed.

George saluted him with his mug of tea. "At least there's no screaming this time."

"Screaming?" Molly asked.

Fred nodded. "Ron's a vocal little fellow," he told her.

"Very loud, we couldn't even sleep through it," George agreed. Someone screamed, but it sounded female. "Oh, sounds like Hermione just got off," he said with a wince.

"You'd know this how?" Bill asked, starting to look alarmed. "What have you guys been doing while we've been working?"

"Ron brought her over to hide one night while they were dating," Fred told him. "Ron grunted and groaned even then, but she only let out one single scream as she got off. Ron, now he screams a lot."

"Bloody fire engine," George agreed.

Charlie turned redder. "I don't think he'll be doing it this time," he told them.

"Good on Draco. Ron should learn how to give," Bill agreed. Molly stared at him, mouth starting to open. "It's only fair, mum. 'Specially since there's three of them. One of them has to bottom now and then."

Charlie looked at him. But it was George who answered. "Ron's a bottom. Adores it apparently unless his men aren't going fast or hard enough."

Charlie looked at his mother. "Knock me out or obliviate me please?" he begged.

Ron came back in, looking a little more rumpled. "Sorry, Draco woke up alone and horny." He sat down and sipped some of his tea. "Where did Harry go?" Hermione let out that scream again. "Good on her," he said with a fond look at the ceiling. "Hopefully he'll get her to like being like that." She screamed again, louder this time. Then everything was silent. "Excellent," Ron said with a smirk.

"She's not nearly as loud as you are," George said with a pat on Ron's hand. "Trust us."

Ron blushed. "I enjoyed it," he said with a smirk. "I have two gorgeous men who like to boff me into the middle of next month. I consider it a perk of this whole changing thing." Molly burst out laughing. "Sorry, mother, didn't mean to embarrass you."

"Oh, you didn't," she said with a smile and a blown kiss. "Your father came back and told me that the boys had complained about you keeping them up."

"What can I say?" Ron said smugly. "Draco has incredible stamina and he's managed to slow Harry down when he's in bunny mode." He sipped more of his tea. "Charlie, did you need something?"

"No," Charlie squeaked.

"The bathroom's the third door down the other hall if you wanted to go hide," Ron said with a smirk as soon as his brother took off to go hide. "It's not like he saw more than my knees and Draco's back," he scoffed.

Bill looked at Ron. "Did this changing thing make you hit your head?" he asked conversationally.

"Not yet," Ron said. "Why?"

"Because you're now odder than the twins, Ron." Ron beamed and blew a kiss. "Are...um... are you changing?"

Ron looked down his shirt, then nodded. "I guess so. Draco said he was going to try and make me change off schedule so Harry could get a real present for his birthday." He finished his tea, and noticed his mother's look. "I should probably go change, huh?" She nodded. "Yes, mother. I'll be right back." He walked up to their bedroom and kissed Draco senseless. "I'm changing off schedule and fast again."

"I'm glad it worked," Draco said smugly. He looked as Ron took off his sweatshirt. "Take a few minutes, I'll try to make it finish before you finish dressing."

"Want to pick out my clothes again?"

"Wear the red silk," he said with a smirk.

"The twins have seen me in it," Ron reminded him as he strolled over to the closet. "I could wear the light green I guess."

"No, you were photographed in that. Wear...." He walked over and looked in the closet. "Wear that red one," he said, pointing at the other red dress in the closet. Ron pulled it out to look at it and gave him an 'are you crazy' look. "I adore you in it and you're not leaving the house."

Ron put it on the bed, shaking his head. "If my mother says anything, you tell her you picked it out." He went into the bathroom to shave while he finished changing, and came out to a new dress lying on the bed. Thin straps. Sleek design. Very naughty of his husband. "Draco, when did you buy this one?"

"Harry did," Harry called, coming out of the closet. "I think I'll like you in that one. Put it on for me, Ron?" He winked and went back to finish changing.

"Okay," Ron said with a shrug, slipping on the cool dress. The fabric stayed cool to the touch, even after he had sat down to put up his hair and work on his makeup. When he was done, he found the matching shoes waiting on him and a necklace. "Harry, you're not supposed to give me gifts for your birthday," he called as he put it on.

"It was my mother's," Draco called from their sitting room. He came to the doorway, purring in pleasure. "I like that one," he noted, watching as Ron put on the high heels. "Perhaps we should go out today for something." He stole a quick kiss, not wanting to mess up her makeup yet. "Go downstairs, we'll be right down." Ron nodded, giving him a pat on the crotch before leaving. "Harry, you naughty beast," he called. Harry came out and fell to his knees, enjoying it enough for the both of them.

Ron walked into the kitchen and everyone stared at him. "Harry picked it out," he told them, sitting in his former spot. "He wanted me to wear it. Draco liked it as well."

Fred looked around George to look at Bill. "Now you see why we think Draco's corrupting him. He turns into this slinky, pseudo-kitty Weasley when he's female."

"I enjoy my body in all it's forms," Ron assured him.

"I want tits like that," George sighed.

"They're heavy and they get in the way," Ron assured him.

Harry strolled in and grabbed Ron, pulling him after him. "Excuse us, Ron's got to help me with something."

"Charlie's in the bathroom," Fred called after him, making George and Bill both giggle.

"Boys!" Molly sighed in disgust. "You and sex and fart jokes."

George beamed at her. "I'm much more like you, mum," he reminded her.

"Yes, I know. That's why you're like that," she reminded him. Ron's screams of pleasure floated down from the nearest bedroom. "Oh, dear, you weren't kidding."

"Share, Potter!" Draco yelled. "You can't have all of her!" A door slammed and Ron's screaming reached all new heights.

Bill shook his head. "At least he's enjoying it." Molly swatted at him. "I'd like a girl to make those sort of noises some day for me," he assured her.

"If you'd date, that might happen," she told him.

"Yes, mother." He sipped his tea.

Charlie came back into the kitchen, looking down the hallways. "What are they doing to him?"

"You probably did the same thing to half your year," Bill teased. Charlie gaped at him. "Wait until you see the dress."

"Harry picked it out," George told him.

"I'm rather glad it's not that silvery one," Fred told him.

George nodded. "Indeed. That would be a bit embarrassing. Someone fell at Ron's feet in that one if I remember right."

"With his tongue out," Fred agreed.

"Boys," Molly warned. Ron strolled back in, still looking marvelous. "That was fast," she said, then she covered her mouth. "I'm sorry, Ron."

Ron hugged. "That's what quickies are for, mum, don't be sorry." He smiled at Charlie, making his poor brother moan. "Do you like this one or the red one better?"

"Turtlenecks," Charlie told him. "You need more turtlenecks."

Ron laughed as he sat down. "Harry says the same thing, then he puts me into things like this."

Bill gaped at him until George thoughtfully closed his mouth for him. "Ron!"

"What?" Ron beamed at him. "My men want me to be slinky and they reward me for it. Often."

Bill shook his head. "If you'd change, we could go eat."

"If he changes, I'm putting him into the blue velvet number I found today," Harry said as he walked in.

"Velvet, in the summer, Harry?" Fred asked.

Harry nodded. "Very cute dress. Ron, it's in the special closet if you wanted to change. You've got a spot," he said, pointing at it. Ron looked and got up, going to change. "Don't worry, that one's more tasteful, yet very pleasing to the eye." He hugged Molly. "I finally have good taste."

"I'm sure Ron appreciates wearing naughty clothes for you, Harry," she agreed, patting him on the arm.

Ron came back in the just-above-the-knee dark blue velvet strap dress and showed it off. "This one?" Harry nodded. "I think I can wear this." He sat down in Harry's lap since Draco was coming and there weren't any more chairs. "Look what else he bought me."

"I saw," Draco said appreciatively. "You should wear stockings with that." Ron shrugged. "Please? For me?"

"Fine, I'll put on stockings," Ron sighed, heading up to go change.

Draco sat down and smiled at his mother-in-law. "She does female so very well, don't you think?"

"I think it's much better than the sweatshirt and jeans earlier," Molly agreed. "Very feminine." She smiled at him. "We should take a picture of the three of you with her in that dress."

Ron came back a few minutes later and endured the photo taking. He had to slap the hand playing with the back of his thigh a few times, but that was Harry on a sex rip.

Hermione walked in and looked at Ron, then at Draco and Harry. "Can't you let her wear normal female clothes?"

"No," the boys said in unison.

Vincent groaned as he walked in. "It's better than the silver one," he decided.

Hermione looked at him, then at Ron. "Think you could let me borrow that one?"

"I think the red silk would look better on you," Draco told her. "You can borrow it as long as it comes back."

She smiled at Vincent. "Deal. We're having dinner out again tonight. I think I'll wear it then. I even have shoes to wear with it." Vincent groaned and kissed her passionately, knocking her back against the refrigerator. "Vincent!" she said, looking shocked.

"If you wear that red dress, we won't make it to dinner," he promised. Then he kissed her again.

"I approve," Ron called as he was led away by his mother for some planning. Ginny was getting married and they needed to look at bridesmaid gowns.

***

Arthur Weasley looked up as his door was knocked on. "Enter," he called. Ron walked in and his mouth fell open. "They let you out in that?"

"They insisted I wear it," Ron told him, handing over the sealed envelope. "From Harry and Draco. I am simply the messenger." He winked and sat on the edge of his father's desk, watching as he read it. "Besides, mum and everyone was with us."

"That's fine I suppose. Though I think that skirt's a little short."

"It nearly hits my knee, dad!"

"I'm your father, Ron, everything shorter than that silver dress is too short," he said as he read. "Thank you for bringing this. Was there an oral note as well?"

"Tell Remus Harry said hi, and that he's still wrong. Tell Moody he was right. And tell them both that I agree with Harry," he said, kissing his father's cheek and standing up. "We're going back to the manor. Hermi's going out for dinner with Vinnie and the boys are treating us all to take away. You're more than welcome to join us."

"I'll be there," Arthur agreed with a smile. He watched his son walk out in that stunning dark blue dress and sighed, remembering when his wife would have fit into it and looked just as amazing. Maybe he should stop off somewhere and buy Molly something that would make her look that wonderful. He thought he heard a scream so he stood up and looked out his door, but there wasn't anything out there. He shrugged and went back to his desk, going to call the Order of the Phoenix.

***

Ron woke up and blinked at the unusual wall coverings. Wallboard with a wood trim. This was definitely not any house he had ever spent a night in. He stood up and looked at the bed he had been lying on. "At least it's not a stone and there's no knife wielding idiot," he noted as he stood up. He patted himself down, nothing was horribly out of order. Nothing felt like it had been touched. He slipped on his shoes and walked to the door, surprised when it opened under his hand. What sort of kidnaper let you roam freely about? He walked out into what