Make Love, Not War

Part 15

Justin smiled widely at his lover as the plane glided through the sky. He couldn’t believe everything was really happening, he had Richard at his side and the chance of forever. He wasn’t sure exactly how he felt about Methos and Nikias, they had lied, but it had been for a good reason. He and Richard had spent the night talking about exactly what they should expect and how they felt about their siblings in light of the new information, for that’s what they both considered Methos and Nikias to be. Neither him nor Richard wanted another father figure in their lives when their own had caused so much pain.

“What are you thinking about?” Richard drawled amused as he took in the soft pensive smile on his love’s face.

Justin blushed, “I was thinking about you and I being together forever. It is everything I ever wanted I just can’t believe this is all really happening.”

“Its real, love. We are going to be together until the end of time. I can’t imagine being without you, I need, love and want you too much to survive without you.”

Justin felt his heart soar as his partner reaffirmed their connection, he couldn’t help feeling insecure sometimes, but Richard was making him believe in happily ever afters. Justin had never believed that people could live together in harmony, his family life had been awful for as long as he could remember. His parents had never wanted children and had told him since the day he could talk that he was a mistake and the only reason his mother hadn’t had an abortion was because it had been against her beliefs. His life was full of pain and disenchantment until the day he had met Richard. He had known right away that he and Richard were important to each other but he hadn’t realised just how important.

Less than two hours later Justin gritted his teeth as he felt the plane descend to land. He hated flying and always had. Normally he spent most of the flight in a wonderful drugged bliss but not this time as he had been warned by Nikias that drugs would not work on them anymore, Immortality meant that the drug was removed from the bloodstream almost immediately, which was a problem

Turning to look at Richard’s head lying on his shoulder, the brunette was once again hit by the sheer beauty and innocence on his love’s face when the man was sleeping. Gently shaking his lover, Justin looked over at his brothers seeing they were amused at his problem since they never had any problems waking. He supposed it was normal for creatures that were thousands of years old and used to fighting for their lives; they had to remain constantly alert for enemies.

“Love, come on wake up. We’re landing now, Rich.” Justin said repeatedly gently running a hand through the blonde locks.

Yawning loudly Richard said, “I’m awake. Quit nagging me, I fucking hate our brothers for arranging a flight at such a stupid time!”

Justin decided to ignore the familiar grouchiness knowing Richard was never in a good mood until he had a large amount of caffeine in his body. Truthfully Richard hated getting up in the morning, he was more of a night owl and often went out for a walk around midnight.
*******
“Just who are we meeting here, Adam?” Justin asked quickly as he looked around at the mass of people. He hated being stuck in a crowd of people who were all watching and judging him.

Three years ago, a psychiatrist friend of his parents had diagnosed Justin as having social anxiety disorder. He never felt comfortable unless he was Richard and that had only happened after he had known the man for six months. Justin had been shocked and awed by Richard’s determination to help him cope with his disorder until he was able to speak in front of people by focussing on the blonde. He had even read out his work in class because he knew he could concentrate on Richard. The blonde made him feel safe and comfortable in a way he had never known, his parents made him feel awkward, embarrassed and edgy. Justin knew he would have to tell Nikias and Methos about his disorder because he didn’t want them to worry about him if he acted strangely in front of people.

As the foursome made their way out of the airport Methos answered, “A friend called Severus who is teaching at the school. He will take us there because some people have problems getting there. He’s a little aloof and arrogant but don’t let that stop you from getting to know him.”

“Okay.” Richard said for the two of them, keeping one hand around his younger lover’s waist.

Richard just knew Justin was feeling anxious about the mass of people and he couldn’t let his love suffer. Justin was better at dealing with crowds of people but Richard knew the man hadn’t completely recovered and now that the drugs the brunette had been taking to help wouldn’t work, which made it even more important for him to support Justin not that he would ever leave the brunette to face his troubles alone. He could never leave Justin even if he wanted to; Justin was too much of a part of him.

“Sev, you’re early!” Nikias and Methos said together with a small laugh causing Richard and Justin to look up.

Richard coolly appraised the man in front of him thinking their brother’s description was accurate. He could practically feel the coldness and suppressed violence contained in the pale, thin, black clothed man with slightly greasy hair. Severus Snape was wearing a rather expensive Armani suit tailored to fit him perfectly, showing that the man had a hard, athletic body to match his cold, hard eyes.

“He is cold and dangerous.” Justin commented lowly to his lover while smiling at the happy scene in front of them.

Smiling widely Justin realised he hadn’t ever seen the older Immortals act so carefree, they certainly hadn’t acted so impulsively in Seacover but then Duncan McLeod had been an uptight idiot who had lectured all of them on the importance of fighting fair. Of course they had totally ignored the man, all that mattered was that they survived no matter if they had to use some slightly dubious methods to kill the Immortal. As a present, Justin and Richard had been gifted two exquisite long daggers each, which were placed in their boots so they could be reached quickly.

“Hello Nik, Adam. Are these your new students?” Snape said noting the nervous look in Justin’s eyes.

Nikias nodded, “They are, they joined us two weeks ago. Professor Severus *Snape*, this Alex *Richard* Nichols and Daniel *Justin* Harris.” Nikias said introducing the trio, stressing the names the trio preferred.

Richard regally inclined his head towards the dark haired man, grinning when Justin did the same. His grin widened when Snape just raised his eyebrow at the introduction before apparently dismissing them as unimportant.

“The car is outside. I take it you have all your bags.” Snape said taking the lead as he walked towards the car leaving them no choice but to follow.

As the car glided through the streets Justin took the chance to talk with his boyfriend. He wasn’t sure what to expect and that worried him. He hated going into a situation where he didn’t have all the facts, it inevitably led to pain.

Justin pondered, “Do you think we’ll met the pair right away?”

Shrugging Richard answered confused, “I don’t know. Nik and Methos said they have a some clues as to the identity of them so we shouldn’t be here too long.”

“Good. I wish we had stayed home.”

Tightening his grip of the younger man’s hand Richard les ots other hand caress the beautiful locks answering, “Everything is going to be okay, I’ll be with you.”

“I know, Rich. Do you think there’s a drugstore nearby?” Justin said biting his lip nervously.

Eyes trained on his lover’s mouth Richard nodded, “Probably but Methos might know of something else you can use instead. Do you want to ask him r?” r?”

Justin nodded his assent hoping it was due, he didn’t know how he was going to cope without his medication. He had thought his Social Anxiety had been cured by his immortality but had quickly discovered it hadn’t when he felt the familiar feelings overcoming him on a quick shopping trip.

The young lovers gave a shout of confusion as the car suddenly started flying, gracefully making its way towards an old, beautiful castle. Richard smiled fondly as he noticed his boyfriend was enthralled with the building, not that he was surprised. Justin had a great interest in architecture, which he had planned to continue in college once they had escaped from Wilmont. Richard contented himself with making the most of a new experience, watching the ground come much closer as they stopped outside the majestic building. He noticed there was a grey haired old man waiting that looked just like every wizard he had ever imagined. At the man’s side, there was a green robed, spectacled woman, whose black hair was tied into a bun, giving her a stern appearance. There was also a tired, weary looking man with greying black hair who was dressed in a shabby robe. The man looked as if a strong wind would blow him away.

Richard waited until everyone had gotten out of the car to open the door giving the teachers a friendly smile as greeting. He looked over at Justin worried about how the man was doing; he was pleased to see a guarded smile on Justin’s face.

“Welcome to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I am Albus Dumbledore the Headmaster. This is Minerva McGonagall the Deputy Headmistress and Head of Gryffindor. The man at my left is Remus Lupin one of the many highly skilled teachers at this school. I understand you are friends of Severus?”

“That is correct. I am Nikias and this is my husband Methos but please refer to him as Adam.” Nikias said politely with a quick smile at the headmaster.

Methos finished smoothly, “These are our brothers Justin and Richard.”

“Welcome again, boys. I imagine this is a rather shocking time for you, I understand this is your first time in a school of magic?”

“That’s right, Sir. This is a beautiful building,” Justin said quickly as the group headed inside the school. As he walked inside the man closed his eyes quickly gasping as images assaulted his mind.

“What cau seu see, Jus?” Richard said worriedly, what was happening to his love? Methos had warned the pair that there would be many unusual things happening once they were in the wizarding world.

Justin smiled saying softly, “I see Salazar laughing with Godric as they read together. They are in a bedroom decorated in green and red. Godric is laughing as they are in bed promising to tell everyone they are together. Now Salazar is angry with Godric so he’s going to make a part of the school that’s just his away from Godric who has betrayed him. So he builds the Chamber of Secrets, what’s that?”

“It’s a special part of the school but you don’t have to worry about it.” McGonagall said seriously after looking at the headmaster.

“If you say so.” Justin said with a shrug, grabbing hold of Richard’s hand as they headed further into the bowels of the building.
*******
“Sherbet Lemons.” Dumbledore said to his statue, waiting patiently for the door to open before showing the group inside.

Dumbledore commanded, “Please sit down and then you can tell us why you are here.”

Once everyone was comfortable Nikias said, “My name is Nikias and I’m Immortal, as is my husband. We are here because of a prophecy saying that two people in this academy are needed to help bring back my family the Olympian Gods.”

“Why would we want the Gods back?” Lupin said eyeing them suspiciously, why would they help people they didn’t even know let alone trust?

Nikias said passionately, “They will help and this Voldemort is nothing compared to some of the problems we dealt with back in the old days.”

“Enough about this what is happening to Justin!” Richard shouted unable to cope with the worry eating at him.

Dumbledore said calmly, “Your friend is a Seer, what he is talking about actually happened. He is picking up the visions from the building itself. You, Richard have very powerful blood in your veins, I believe you are half-elf. It is rare to find an Immortal half-elf but then elves are descended from the ancient Gods.”

“Rich, calm down. Its okay, love.” Justin said seriously as he turned the man’s face towards him.

Seeing the confusion on the face of the one he loved, Richard explained quickly, “I just don’t want you fucking lose you again and I could. What if you See something about me that you don’t like?”

“That’s not going to happen. I know everything about you. I love you, Rich. Together in this life and the next, remember.”

“I remember.” Richard said smiling widely as he hugged his lover hating that he was so insecure but he couldn’t believe Justin was all his.

Eyes twinkling Dumbledore said, “I have assigned rooms in Gryffindor and Slytherin. Nikias and Methos are going to be in Gryffindor. Justin and Richard will be in Slytherin. I am sure you will find the pupils in both houses helpful and friendly. Since you may have to be here for a while to determine the two needed for the prophecy, the four of you can help in the teaching of defence classes. Do any of you have skills you could teach the students?”

Methos decided to answer the question since he and Nikias knew where the younger couple’s strengths lay. Smiling politely he said, “Nikias and I are skilled in various forms of magic and have encountered a number of supernatural beings you may be unfamiliar with. We will teach the students how to fight against different types of opponents, we both know hundreds fighting techniques. Justin and Richard are both experts at Karate, Judo, and Kickboxing. Justin is skilled in long range knife throwing and archery. They can help teach the Muggle defence class, I imagine most of the students wouldn’t be able to hold their own in a fight without using their wands.”

Dumbledore nodded saying thoughtfully, “The classes are going to be just for the sixth years since they will have to face the dark forces soon. Nikias and Adam can teach an extra Defence Against Dark Arts class on Tuesday afternoons while the Muggle fighting methods class shall be held every Wednesday afternoon until you leave. Now it is time for dinner, please follow me.”

Dumbledore stood up and quickly looked over the four new guests before leading the way to the dining hall. The large room was enchanted so that images of the sky filled the ceiling as the students ate and talked. Justin smiled widely as visions filled his mind causing him to gasp at the sheer joy and happiness in the room. He started in alarm when Dumbledore waved his hand causing four chairs to appear and gestured for the Immortals to sit down.

Dumbledore said, “Students, I’m sure you have all noticed four new faces here at the Teachers table. These four are here to aid in the battle with the dark forces. They will be teaching two new classes during their stay here. Nikias and his husband Adam will be joining Gryffindor during their time here. Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermonie Granger will take them to the Gryffindor rooms.” He paused and waited for the pair to stand noticing they endured the questioning looks with an air of indifference.

Smiling reassuringly to the other apparently shy couple the wizard continued, “This is Justin and Richard, who will be joining Slytherin.”

Once the headmaster had finished Snape stood saying coolly, “Draco Malfoy, escort our guests to our common room. These are good friends of mine who I’m sure you will all get on with.”
*******
Draco Malfoy nodded his assent already knowing his Professor’s words were an order not a suggestion. He took the chance to study the new housemates, he could sense a lot of magic energy in them, but they appeared to be rather new to the world of magic. However his own feelings did not matter, they were friends of Snape so he was going to make sure to stay on their good side. Perhaps once they were in the common room he could find out about the pair.

“What do you make of them, Draco?” Pansy Parkinson asked calmly noticing the pair were ignoring everyone. She was confused at their silence but she could feel the power inside them and knew better than to anger someone with so much power.

“They must be our sort to be friends with Snape.” Draco answered distractedly as he watched the Gryffindor table where a similar conversation was taking place.
********
“Look, they are friends with Snape!” Ron hissed as he watched Nikias and Adam laugh at something their potions professor had said. He couldn’t imagine anyone in their right mind laughing with Snape! Obviously, they were being saddled with some insane weird couple.

Hermonie said quickly, “Dumbledore wouldn’t allow them to stay with us if they’re dangerous, don’t you think Harry?”

Harry nodded saying thoughtfully, “Of course. I recognise the one called Nikias. I don’t know where from though.”

“See they work for You-Know-Who!” Ron said eagerly just as the pair in question smirked at him causing the redhead to freeze in a panic.

“Of course they don’t. I’m sure they are nice. Now be quiet before they hear you.” Hermonie said taking another look at Methos and sighing happily.
*******
Richard glared at the blonde approaching him, he didn’t know why but he felt an instant dislikr thr the teen. His dislike only increased when the boy thoughtfully looked at his lover. How dare this weird kid come out of nowhere and make goo-goo eyes at Justin!

“My name is Draco Malfoy, I’m the leader of Slytherin. What are your names?” Draco said as politely as possible while noting how attractive the brunette was, perhaps this one might be worth knowing.

Hoping to defuse the sudden tension Justin said quickly, “My name is Daniel Justin Harris and this is my boyfriend Alex Richard Nichols. You can call us Justin and Richard since we have both prefer our middle names. How long have you been here at Hogwarts?”

“I’ve been here since I was ten, like most of the others. How old are you guys?” Draco said amazed at how beautiful Justin’s voice was but then he was always attracted to foreign accents.

“We’re both eighteen. What do you do for fun here?” Richard said with a quick look at his brunette lover, not liking that Justin was wearing his expressionless mask again because of Malfoy.

Leading the way to the dungeons Draco replied, “Quiddich is the main sport but most houses have their own pastimes. Slytherin prefers to party and play cards Gryffindor loves to play chess and pull pranks. Hufflepuff tends to prefer artistic pursuits like acting and Ravenclaw tends to love intellectual pursuits. They never rest.”

The dungeons was every bit as depressing as the couple had imagined it but strangely there was an air of expectation, as if something important was about to happen. They listened calmly to the password, which was rather boringly Purebloods. It appeared the Slytherins hadn’t put a lot of imagination into creating the password.

The common room was of course decorated in the Slytherin house colours of green and silver. Strewn around the room in no obvious pattern were emerald green chairs the room was dominated by the glass and silver table, which was covered in books.

“How long have you known Professor Snape?” Draco asked seriously as he sat down, gesturing for the pair to copy him. He was going to find out exactly how dangerous the pair were before he tried to get Justin. He knew the brunette wanted him, everyone did.

“We met him today. He is a good friend of our brothers who have known him for decades.”

“He’s a great teacher, the best Potions Master in the country. I take it your brothers are Methos and Nikias? So what are your abilities?”

“Yeah. Just why do you want to know?” Richard asked narrowing his eyes at the boy.

“I was just trying to make conversation. If you are friends with Snape then you must be very special.”

“I am a Seer and my love is a half-elf.” Justin answered seeing it wasn’t going to cause any problems but just in case he decided to keep their Immortality a secret.

“A Seer? Just what do you see, the past or future?” Draco answered seriously not letting his panic show on his face. Just what had Justin picked up from him and how much would it cost for the man to remain silent.

Justin said in a bored tone, “I have seen a lot about the students of Hogwarts from all times but I don’t tell anyone about students of the past unless it will affect the present or future. Now onto the present, I was wondering what you thought of Harry Potter? I believe he’s quite the celebrity here but I know Snape doesn’t like him.”

Pacing around the room Malfoy said angrily, “Talk about the understatement of the century. Potter always breaks rules but he’s treated as if he can walk on water just because his mother saved him from dying. Potter breaks even more rules than I do but no one cares and only Snape ever punishes him for it. Dumbledore acts as if the sun shines out of Potter’s ass. So what are you really here for?”

Richard sneered, “You’ll find out if we decide you need to know. Justin and I will be teaching a class on Muggle fighting methods, which will help improve your stamina, dexterity, and agility for your spell casting. It was felt that some of the students might need help so fight without using magic and since we are experts in that area it was decided we woulke tke the class.”

“How can you help anyway? There are certain rules to follow in a wizards duel.” Draco asked hoping that he could get Snape to let him out of the class.

Richard said unconcerned, “We don’t care about breaking a few ridiculous rules, all that matters is that the enemy is either killed or incapacitated so you can get away. One of the most important things for you to learn is that in a fight and in life all that matters is survival. Snape and Lupin were talking about who would get the best marks, and Lupin insisted it would be Potter because he has been in more duels and fights than you. He said that Potter’s far better than you when it comes to fighting since you have been spoiled all your life.”

“Potter’s been treated like a china doll all his life! There is no way he is better than I am! I have been training since I was four years old to become a wizard. I could take Potter in a fight in no time.” Draco ranted angrily, although there was a small part of him that admired the raven-haired boy for being so determined all the time. Just to himself the blonde admitted Potter had an amazing ability to get out of seemingly impossible situations.

“Well most of the faculty don’t agree with you I guess we’ll see tomorrow.” Justin said with a smirk, the blonde was so *easy* to manipulate.

Meanwhile in the Gryffindor common room, Methos and Nikias were being interrogated as to their intentions and alliances. It was amusing to see three infants trying to out do them and make them slip up, as if it was that easy. Both had them had been questioned by far more skilled people for years without saying something anything they didn’t want to admit.

“So how do you Professor Snape?” Hermonie asked seriously as the five sat around the fireplace.

Nikias shrugged, “I saved his life once and we got to know each other that way. He was attacked by a Beholder luckily I have a lot of experience with killing them. He met Adam later on when my love was working over here while I was in the US. He’s a good friend.”

“I’ll take your word for it. So what classes are you going to teach?”

Nikias said breezily, “We are teaching an extra DADA class on with an emphasis on the abilities of different supernatural beings we have encountered. Richard and Justin are going to teach a class on Muggle fighting methods as most wizards can’t handle themselves in a physical fight. We expect Draco Malfoy will be the best in the class as Snape said he’s a very good student and fighter.”

“Harry is a great fighter and can beat Malfoy with one hand tied behind his back!” Ron Weasley said with an outraged snarl. As if that spoilt, self-centred ferret could ever be good enough to beat Harry Potter!

Methos shrugged, “We’ll see in class. I’m sure the class is going to be far more exciting than anything you have ever done before. Justin and Richard are very skilled when it comes to fighting, they have spent years perfecting their techniques.”

“How can they be that good when they’re still teenagers? It’s not like they have spent decades learning how to fight.” Hermonie wondered aloud while knowing Dumbledore employed only the best teachers.

“They could afford the best teachers. They are very determined to be the best at what they do. Their hard work paid off big time.” Nikias said with an unconcerned shrug, it was the truth and he couldn’t see telling the trio would cause any problems.
*******
The following day found Justin terrified at the prospect of having to stand up in front of a class of students and actually teach. At least he wouldn’t be doing it alone, his love was going to be with him all the time and that was the only reason the brunette hadn’t suffered any panic attacks. Richard had insisted Justin was ready for it, since he had spoken to the classes back home and had even coped with a police interview without panicking.

The couple felt it was important thing to capture the attention of students right away. Thus, it was agreed that a demonstration was to take place within minutes of the class starting. Justin had decided to use his favourite set of throwing knives for the demonstration while Richard was going to be unarmed

As the students lined up waiting for the door to open each one could hear the sound of yelling going on inside the room. Finally, Harry could take the anger no longer, and fearing the shouting could erupt into violence he opened the door and gasped.

Looking at the students briefly Justin ordered, “All of you come in and go stand at the back of the room. No matter what happens you are not to interfere and there is an anti-magic field in here so your wands won’t work.”

As everyone moved to comply Harry said, “Is anyone else worried about how that sounded?”

“Dumbledore wouldn’t the them hurt us.” Hermonie said reassuringly.

Harry explained in a whisper, “Its not us I’m worried about from the look of it they are going to fight each other.”

At this point Justin smirked and aimed a savage kick at Richard’s torso, not reacting when the man was hurled backwards. Not bothering to look up Justin flicked his wrist causing a deadly gleaming knife to hit Richard squarely in the shoulder.

The room was filled with horrified screams as blood became visible on the man’s shirt. Pulling out the knife, Richard nodded in appreciation as he reached down and unfastened the metal chain around his jeans. Lashing out quickly with his hand, Richard grinned wolfishly as the chain coiled around his brunette lover’s arm, reducing the blood flow.

Justin grabbed hold of the chain and gave a vicious pull, causing Richard to come to him. With expert timing Justin let out a sharp kick aimed at the blonde’s midsection, he was surprised when Richard grabbed the offending foot and holding the leg up, gave the man a punch to the side. Seconds after the punch hit home, Justin wrestled his leg free and aimed a sweeping kick at Richard’s knees making the man fall.

Grabbing hold of Richard’s head Justin held a knife at his love’s throat for a second before putting the knife down and laughing. Reaching down to pull the man from the floor Justin took the chance to see how their students had taken the small demonstration. He was amazed to see the students looking at them in fear, confusion, and awe.

Richard laughed, “That was fun but I still think we need to run through it again without any weapons. Are you in the mood for a little kickboxing later?”

“We’ll see if the bros want to join us. So what did you all think of our little demonstration?” Justin said addressing the question to the gaping audience.

Pansy Parkinson gasped out, “You mean that wasn’t real? You don’t want to kill each other?”

“Of course not. I would never hurt Justin. What the fuck is wrong with you?” Richard snarled at Pansy insulted and angry that they thought he could hurt the one person he loved more than anything.

“Calm down, Mon Coeur. She is just a little shocked. We did just start fighting in front of them without warning.” Justin said quickly, placing a calming hand on the irate blonde’s shoulder.

Squeezing the hand for a few seconds Richard calmed down as he always did when his lover touched him. Justin was the one person who could calm the angry, killing rage that sometimes clouded his mind.

“Now everyone we are going to tell you a little bit about what you are going to learn in this class. My name is Justin and this is my boyfriend Ric. Yo. You can call us by our first names. We are going to teach you Muggle fighting methods, which will also help your magical abilities by increasing your stamina and agility.”

“Muggle fighting. Why on earth would we want to learn anything to do with Mudbloods?” Blaise Zabini sneered in outrage. The very idea was an affront to all wizards, Muggles had done nothing but cause disaster for wizards.

Shrugging Richard declared, “It is a compulsory class but more to the point because most of you would be killed in no time once you enter the real world away from Hogwarts. If you want to die then you can leave but if you stay, we can teach you a few tricks to help you live. We will teach you to listen to your instincts and use your common sense. Don’t listen to all the ridiculous myths that it is honourable to continue even when the chances of you winning are impossible. If you see a chance to get out of a confrontation, use it.”

“I see they fit right in with Slytherin!” Ron hissed to his friends hoping no one else would hear him. The last thing he needed was a detention on the first day of school.

“We do actually. I’ve been wondering what you would do if you had done into the houses you where destined for.”

“What do you mean by that, Justin?” Blaise said with a grin noticing the look of worry on the face of Harry Potter. He wanted to know what made the supposed glory boy react that way!

Justin gave a flippant grin saying, “I am a Seer and since coming here I have had a lot of visions. The most memorable are about a few students here. Now you, Harry Potter went to the wrong house. You were supposed to be in Slytherin but because of a certain someone’s interfering you did not go to Slytherin as you were destined. You were supposed to find true allies within Slytherin and a new family but it wasn’t your fault. You were desperate for friends so you believed what Ron Weasley said without stopping to think about it.”

“The famous Mr Potter, a Slytherin how scandalous.” Draco drawled in amusement at the shock and fear on the boy’s face.

Hermonie protested, “He doesn’t have it in him to be in Slytherin. He’s not evil.”

Justin shrugged, “Slytherin doesn’t mean evil, it means ambitious. True some peoplee ane an ambition for power but you shouldn’t tar everyone with the same brush. Now personally I am a good match for Slytherin. I am ambitious and cunning, I will do anything to get what I want. I am also a good match for Ravenclaw. I love learning and studying, you can normally find me in a library reading a book. Its true, I have done things in the past that weren’t very nice I a I am no longer the man I was when I did those things.”

“If I was supposed to be in Slytherin there would have been some signs, right?”

Justin nodded leaning down to whisper in the boy’s ear, “There have been signs, Harry. I know how ambitious and cunning you are. Hell, you remind me of myself. I know about those thoughts you have in the middle of the night that you are ashamed to admit. I know how much you dream of killing your relatives.”

Harry gasped and moved away from his new teacher, he had never thought someone would get inside his head like that. What if Justin was right and he was supposed to be in Slytherin? Even though he detested the Slytherins he had to admit that he had admired the loyalty, the house gave to one another. He had to admit that he had never really felt comfortable in Gryffindor but had assumed it was because of his status as the resident celebrity.

Justin smiled cruelly before saying, “Now we are going to split all of you into mixed house pairs. Now the pairs are as follows; Neville Longbottom and Vincent Crabbe, Hannah Abbott and Mandy Brocklehurst. Susan Bones and Padma Patil, Parvati Patil and Sarah Caldwell. Terry Boot and Justin Finch-Fletchley, Lisa Turpin and Lavender Brown. Greg Goyle and Ron Weasley, Pansy Parkinson and Hermonie Granger. Blaise Zabini and Seamus Finnigan, Dean Thomas and Adrian Pucey. Malcolm Baddock and Ernie McMillian, Katie Bell MillMillicent Bullstrode. Now the last pair is obviously Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter.”

Ignoring the groans Richard continued his lover’s narrative, “The first thing you are all going to learn is how to stretch properly, then we are going to do some running. Everyone line up in pairs and follow us outside. Do not think about trying to sneak away because we will not be happy when we catch up with you.”

Complete silence descended as the unhappy group walked outside, pointedly not looking at their partners. As they walked, Draco wondered just how he could use the information about Harry Potter to his advantage. He would never admit it to anyone but he had always wanted to by friends with the raven-haired boy. Harry's rejection was the reason why he hated the boy so much. He didn’t know why he was so hurt by Harry’s refusal to be his friend but he was and had vowed to make Potter suffer for daring to reject and hurt him.

Once all the students were standing in front of them Richard said, “Now if you don’t stretch before we work out, you’ll end up hurt. I want all of you to stretch out before we start running. The running will help get you all in good shape so you don’t get hurt when we move onto something else. After that we are going to talk to you all about the class and the wizarding world.”

“Will you tell us why you decided to come teach here?” Harry asked quickly knowing he hadn’t been told something. He couldn’t help but feel someone should have told him the truth, he was always worried about being betrayed when he didn’t know everything about someone.

“Yes. Now everyone line up in a single row. We are going to jog around the perimeter of the school only six times since it’s the first class.” Justin said seriously as he moved to stand at one side of the group.

Everyone let out a sigh of annoyance not looking forward to the first part of their lesson. They hadn’t expected an afternoon run was on their agenda but each one knew better than to argue with the teachers. The twenty-six students lined up in single file and waited for the signal.

One hour later, the run was over and the students were giving the teachers looks of amazement. The pair were acting as if the run was just a pleasant stroll in the park while all but two of the students were trying to catch their breath.

Draco Malfoy looked at his partner and smirked, amused that the boy was still trying to catch his breath. To think this was the saviour of the wizarding world! As his best friend approached the blonde smiled sharing a look of victory, he had bested Harry Potter even if it was only in something as ridiculous as running.

“As you are all so unfit the homework is that you all have to run around the grounds at least ten times before the next class I am expecting you all to shave off at least thirty seconds on your running times. You will also have a seven-page essay on the philosophy of Karate since we are going to be teaching it to you soon. Now can you all please walk inside,” Richard said seriously as he looked at the students who he knew probably wanted to kill him in that instant.

“Sit down please in the pairs assigned earlier.” Justin said once they were all standing inside the classroom. As he looked around the man was busy thinking about what to add to the room to make it feel more like a martial arts training room.

“Now we know you must have questions for us so please ask away. Just put your hand up if you have a question and once we call your name you can ask us anything.” Richard said sitting down on the teachers’ desk next to Justin.

“Yes, Hermonie?” Justin said not surprised in the least that the redhead was the first to let her curiosity get the better of her.

“I was wondering how you came to know about Hogwarts? I don’t recognise your names from Hogwarts: A History.” Hermonie said careful not to make her question sound like an accusation.

“Our brothers asked us to help them with a small problem. We agreed and so here we are.”

Disgusted at the thought of brothers having sex Pansy asked, “So are you two brothers?”

Justin exclaimed shocked, “Gods NO! Nikias and Adam asked us to consider them family a while ago and we agreed. We now consider them our brothers in heart if not in blood.”

“Harry, what is your question?” Richard asked quickly wanting to get away from an unusual topic.

“What are you two? You are not human, am I right?”

Richard nodded, “Yeah. I am half-elf and Justin is a descendent of some Titans.”

“How old are you?” Terry asked seriously confused by the aura of pain and weariness surrounding the couple.

“We are both eighteen, I’m the oldest although not by that much.” Richard answered getting a little bored by the routine questions.

“Have you ever killed someone?” Blaise asked with a small laugh.

Solemnly Justin nodded, “Yes we have.”

There was a shocked silence as the information sank in and the teachers waited for the inevitable questions. More than a few of them were wondering why Dumbledore was allowing to murderers to teach them fighting, surely there was a chance that their teachers could attack them? Although they had been told by Methos and Nikias to be careful, who they told the couple knew the students would not reveal it to anyone else.

“Can you tell us about it?” Draco asked softly seeing the look of pain in Justin’s eyes and wanting to help remove that pain.

“She was a woman we saw shopping. We kidnapped her and killed her. Although she wasn’t killed right away, we kept her prisoner before killing her. She was a nice looking woman and friendly.”

“Why did you kill her?” Justin Finch-Fletchley asked wanting to understand what would drive someone to murder another human being.

Justin imparted bluntly, “We killed her to prove our love for each other, and because we wanted to prove it could be done.”

“Did anyone find out it was you who killed her?”

Richard nodded quickly replying, “Yes, Susan. Due to my fast healing abilities and the work of Nikias, I’m still here. He was the one who got Justin out of prison and made sure we were together.”

“Was that before or after you started calling them brothers?” Draco asked confidently knowing the pair would tell the honest and bitter truth even if it was something they didn’t want to hear.

“It was before but we feel in our hearts that Nikias and Methos are a part of us and that we are honoured to include them in our family.” Justin said staring into the eyes of the students, trying to make them see what he saw when he looked at his brothers.

Richard said quickly, “I think that’s enough for now. I want you all to come and sit around us in a circle. We are going to talk about good, evil and neutrality. You have to learn to trust your partner because you will be spending every one of our lessons together and probably all of our brothers’ classes as well.”

“Harry, you are known as the saviour of the wizarding world. So do you have an opinion of good and evil?”

“I think Voldemort is evil. He always has been.” Harry answered confused as to why the blonde teacher was asking him such a ridiculous question.

Justin retorted, “Tom Riddle is a product of his upbringing really. He never knew his family and was raised in an orphanage were he was abused. No one came to help him and he started to believe all Muggles were dangerous and would only hurt wizards. No one helped him adjust to the wizarding world and no one punished his abusers. Did you know that he only became Voldemort after losing the woman he loved? Muggles killed her after they discovered her powers. He wasn’t able to help her because of the ban on underage magic and by the time the authorities got involved she was already dead.”

Seeing the boy was starting to listen to him Justin continued solemnly, “Harry, imagine yourself in his position. You have been raped and beaten by Muggles all your life but no one came to help you. When you get into the wizarding, world you are an outsider and no one believes you after you tell them about the abuse. Finally, you fall in love with a woman called Kelly who truly understands you. You tell her about what happened but she does not pity or hate you. She agrees to marry you. One night when you are asleep, you have a vision about your love being beaten and killed by Muggles. You go to see your favourite teacher called Albus Dumbledore. He doesn’t help and says you are just imaging things so you have no way of rescuing her. You try to leave the school but there are too many anti-magic shields. You are sedated at Dumbledore’s behest after he says you are suffering from a lack of sleep and hysteria. After twelve hours have passed you manage to make someone believe you, you go to the place your love is laying. You arrive in time to see her die. Tell me, Harry who would you blame for her death? Would you blame Dumbledore for not believing you and sedating you so you cannot help her? Is the Ministry to blame for not allowing you to apparate to her even though you know her location? Would you blame the Muggles who killed her and took away your other half?”

“I would blame all of them and I would want to avenge her death.” Harry admitted quickly knowing it was the truth.

“Exactly. Truthfully, he has gone slightly insane but I would probably do the same in his position. I guess most people would, ” Justin said while gently squeezing his lover’s hand.

“So are you a supporter of Voldemort?”

“No Sarah, I’m neutral. I can see qualities in both sides that I support.” Justin admitted ignoring the looks of anger on the faces of the Gryffindor students, he was shocked to see a look of understanding on Harry’s face. Perhaps there was hope for the boy to become the man he had the potential to be.

“Its unusual to find someone who is truly neutral in a war.” Terry said amazed at their naivety since it was impossible to stay neutral in a war, as each side would assume you were on the other’s side.

“We will teach you how to fight but the most important thing we can teach you is to survive. Richard and I have used some slightly immoral methods to fight but we didn’t care about using them. I don’t care what you have to do to survive or the price you have to pay as long as you survive. You are no good to your friends and side if you are dead!”

Looking up at the pale teacher Harry questioned warily, “Did you tell the truth when you said I was supposed to be in Slytherin, Justin?”

“Of course, why would I lie about that?”

“Perhaps you are right but how could the Sorting Hat lie?” Harry ventured not wanting to upset his teacher in case the man refused to answer him.

Rolling his eye at the ridiculous question Justin explained patiently, “You were desperate to go into Gryffindor and the Hat wanted you to be happy. The hat told someone what it had done but was told if he would be destroyed if he told the truth.”

“What would suggest I do now? What if I no longer belong in Slytherin?”

Seeing the strain of teaching was getting to his partner Richard decided to answer, “Ask to be resorted and the Sorting Hat will place you were you truly belong. Do not fight the hat this time and open your mind so it can discover where you truly belong,”

“Harry, don’t listen to them. You don’t belong with those bastards!” Ron protested angrily while holding onto his friend’s arm.

Giving a Mona Lisa smile Harry calmly proposed, “We’ll see what the Sorting Hat says. I would have asked about being resorted years ago but I didn’t know it could be done.”

“Harry, you can come with us after class to see some friends of ours who will help. Draco, Blaise, and Hermonie are going to join us as well, it shouldn’t take long. You can have dinner with us.”

The four students nodded while Ron Weasley glared at the two new teachers feeling betrayed at his exclusion to attend the meeting. He was Harry’s best friend and the only one who could be trusted to help Harry. He knew the pair were lying about his friend’s sorting, Harry belonged with him and that meant in Gryffindor.

“That’s it for today then. You can all leave now but remember to do your homework. Anyone who doesn’t will be serving detention for one hour with the two of us.” Justin said commandingly ignoring the dismayed groans. He felt it was only fair considering the age of the students in question, they had no reason to neglect their studies.

Once everyone but the four students had left, Justin took the opportunity to examine the quartet in detail. He wanted to trust them but he felt there was something he was missing. From what he had been told by Snape and his own visions these four were some of the most intelligent, creative, and loyal students in the school but each one had darkness in their soul that was waiting to be unleashed.

“Pick up your things and come with us. It’s time to talk some people who might be able to fix the problems in this school.” Justin said seriously, placing an arm around his lover’s waist as he waited for the students to sort themselves out.

Minutes later Justin and Richard started walking out of the classroom leaving the four no choice but to follow. The four students looked at each other in confusion not knowing why they had been singled out or what exactly needed fixing. Was there something wrong with each of them? If so, could it be cured?

End Part 15