Chapter I
Regulus snuck into Hogwarts through the Hogsmeade tunnel, it sure did pay off to marry a Marauder. It was late, and he was exceptional at sneaking about, so manoeuvring through the halls he once called home came easy.
He was making it through swift and unseen until he stumbled upon the case outside the trophy room. A case full of Quidditch medals, James’ front and centre. He smiled, letting the memories flood in. Those of windy days, messy hair, and betting on who would take home the trophy with some rated M acts. James usually found himself at Regulus’ order, but not that year.
Regulus’ eyes moved to the left, and in doing so his heart twinged. There was a shiny medal, no doubt newer, one that read:
1994
Harry J. Potter
Seeker
Harry was a seeker, his son, a seeker. If James was here he’d be thrilled. Mr. “I want enough kids to make an all-Potter Quidditch Team.” Regulus had tried to keep up with his children, as well as the others, but it was hard. Being held captive and only getting shreds of The Daily Prophet, proved to be difficult.
Harry was obviously the most reported on, yet misreported, in the sense that everyone believed Lily was his mother. Honestly, did no one question his marriage, and the birth of his 3 children?
Truth be told not many in the Wizarding World would question Albus Dumbledore, not anyone worth a shit, anyway. But Regulus Potter, that was another story.
He was determined to make it right, and if that meant sneaking into Hogwarts to rattle the old man, then that’s what he would do.
He shook the emotions off and continued his mission. This time not stopping until he reached the stone Gargoyles. “Les étoiles voient tout.” Regulus was quite surprised when the password worked. Sure, it was promised that any member of the Ancient and Noble House of Black would be able to use it anytime, but he wasn’t sure that Dumbledore would keep the tradition alive.
When he walked in it was the same as he remembered from his own days at Hogwarts. Dumbledore was sitting with his back turned.
“Hello, Mr. Black. To what do I owe the pleasure?” “I have not been a Black in almost 2 decades, you know that, Albus.” “Forgive me, Mr. Potter, old habots.” With that Dumbledore turns around to look at Regulus. “Where is my son?” “In his dorm, sleeping I presume.” Regulus lets the air out of his nose. “So you admit it?” “Admit what?” “You switched them. After Voldemort killed James and Lily, you switched Leo and Harry. You sent my son to live with those muggles, instead of keeping him safe.” “I did keep him safe.” “No, you didn’t. How could he have possibly been safe there? He is a pureblood wizard, he would’ve been protected! I would’ve, Sirius and Remus would’ve-” “When Lily died she placed a powerful protection over Harry.” “That’s another lie!” shouted Regulus. “Her love protected HER biological son after the unbreakable vow was broken, it’s blood magic 101, you know that!” “You were gone, Sirius went to prison, Remus went underground, I had no other choice.” “I know you knew that the Death Eaters captured me, and you’re the one who sent my brother to that place! You knew Peter and Sirius switched! You only think about yourself!”
“What were you hoping to accomplish with this Mr. Potter?” “I would like to speak to my son.” “Well seeing as he currently has no legal guardian for Hogwarts to contact, his head of house would have to approve that conversation, for his safety. You understand.” Dumbledore stated with a smirk. “Then get them.” “Well it’s the middle of the night-” “I said get them.” snarled Regulus. “Very well.” “Wait,” Regulus got a look on his face, one of sadness and understanding. He moved to sit down at a padded chair, then looked at Dumbledore. “Does he know, does Harry know?” “I’m sorry, know what?” “You’ve spent the last 14 years telling anyone who would listen that Lily is his mum. Does he know she’s not?” “I’m afraid not.” Regulus nodded. “Get his head of house.” he pauses “Please?”
Regulus sat alone for what felt like an eternity. Thinking of everything and nothing all at once. What would he say? What would Harry say? How could he let it get like this? His friends. Their friends, what would they say?
That’s when the unmistakable scent wafted in through the door, and there stood Minerva McGonagall. She looked the same, still, after all these years.
All Regulus managed to get out was “He’s a Gryffindor?” “I am pleased to say he is,” she replied. “I want to see my son.” “Mr. Potter, I’m afraid I’m not sure if I can allow that.” “Look I get that he is in a fragile state, and he doesn’t know half of what has happened but-” “I understand your frustration, but I don’t think I can do this for you.” Regulus looked up at McGonagall. “Then don’t.” “I’m not sure I understand.” Regulus stood up. “Don’t do it for me. Do it for James.” McGonagall’s face shifted to sadness. “He was your best student, and you know that. He would do anything for you, and you know that. Do it for Effie and Monte, who were nothing but friendly to you, inviting you and Madame Pomfrey into their home for every holiday. Do it for Sirius. He loved you, he listened to you, he tried his damn best to be as good as James to make you proud. Do it for Remus, who cried when he missed your classes, and did extra classwork while bandaged up in the infirmary. Do it for Lily, who stayed after every lesson to help you clean up, because of her kindness. Do it for my friends, Harry’s aunts and uncles, who while not always agreeing with you, never once disrespected your authority. Do it for Harry, who has never, in his entire life, been told the truth about the people who loved him, that laid down their lives for him.”
With that, McGonagall broke. Silent tears were streaming down her face. Regulus truthfully, had never seen her cry. A snap of magic was heard then a house elf was standing next to her. “Rinky, please fetch Mr. Potter from the Gryffindor dorms. Do not tell him why he is being summoned to the Headmaster’s office. “Yes ma’am.” Another snap and he was gone.
“Regulus, please go easy on him. The poor boy has been through enough.” she sighed. “I’ll try. Truthfully, I don’t even know what to say.” “You’ll figure it out. I think it should also be noted that Mr. Potter is under the effects of a Sealing Form Charm.” Regulus whipped his head around to Dumbledore, who was sitting quietly in his chair sipping tea. “You sealed him?” “Yes. I did it to further the facade of Lily being his mother. It can be removed tonight.” “Damn straight it will be.”
-
Harry was tossing and turning. He hadn’t been sleeping well at all lately. Then someone started poking him in the side. “Oi, Ron, come off it.” he groaned. “Not Mr. Weasley, Mr. Potter.” replied a squeaky voice. Harry opened his eyes and fumbled around on the nightstand searching for his glasses, when he put them on he saw a house elf staring back at him. “And who are you?” “Name’s Rinky, Mr. Potter. You are being requested in the Headmaster’s office.” “What for?” “Oh, I’m not supposed to day, but follow me. It is urgent.”
Harry peeled himself out of bed, slipping on his robe and stuffing his wand and the map in his pocket, just in case. What on earth could Dumbledore need from him at this hour?
When he got inside he saw Dumbledore at his desk, looking sorrowful, and Professor McGonagall standing off to the side looking dishevelled. Well, that was a first, and had she been crying?
“Headmaster?” “Come in, come in Harry.” “Why am I here, this late I mean? We haven’t done anything-” “Oh no, Mr. Potter, you aren’t in any trouble.” Professor McGonagall chimed in. “Okay?” Harry seemed quite puzzled. “Well first I need to ask you, has Professor Flitwick gone over the Sealing Form Charm?” Harry thought for a minute. “I think so, that’s the one where the castor can make a subject appear physically different, and the charm isn’t worn off until a reversal?” “That’s the one.” “Do you want me to go under one? To ward off Voldemort?” “No Harry, quite the opposite actually.” “I’m confused.” It was Dumbledore’s turn to speak again. “Well Harry, I assume that you are under the impression that Lily Evans is your mother?” “Yes?” replied Harry, looking more puzzled than ever. “Well, she isn’t. In fact, one could argue that you don’t have a mother.” “I’m sorry. What?” “I think it’s my turn to explain.” said a deep voice. Harry didn’t see him at first, but then he stood up from a chair off in the corner and walked over. “Do you know who I am Harry?” he asked. Harry took a minute to really look at him before responding. “No, I don’t think so. But you look like Sirius.” The man chuckled. “Well, I suppose I do, yes.” “Sorry, I still don’t have any idea what’s going on.” “Well first.” He pointed his wand at Harry and chanted a revealing spell.
It’s weird, he could feel his hair grow and become curlier, bits of it now falling over his eyes, it was darker now too. He got taller as well, not by much, but enough to make his pant legs shrink a bit. And he just felt different.
“So Harry, this is how you are supposed to look, without the charm,” said McGonagall, as she handed him a mirror. He looked the same aside from the hair and height. Except- except for his eyes, the one thing everyone claimed he shared with his mother. Maybe that’s why they asked if he thought Lily was his mum. His eyes looked like Sirius’ now, that mix of stormy-grey and sky-blue. The same as the man in front of him.
“Harry, my name is Regulus. The reason I look like Sirius is because he’s my brother.” “I didn’t know he had a brother.” “We went through a bit of a falling out a long time ago. But, Harry, I’m also your father.”
Harry’s face became a mix of rage and confusion. “No. My father is James Potter.” “Yes, you misunderstood me.” “James is your father, and I am too. I gave birth to you.” “What? You’re- Wait, I don’t-” “I’m transgender Harry, do you know what that means?” Harry nodded. “Yeah, it’s um- where you identify with a different gender than you were born.” “Exactly.” “I still don’t-” “I can’t imagine how confusing this is for you.” “Where were you?” Harry asked angrily. “All these years. When the Dursleys were hurting me, when I had to go up against Voldemort all those times when Sirius was in Azkaban, when-” Harry started crying. “I’m sorry.” “No, Don’t be. Do not apologize for the way you feel Harry. I will tell you anything you want to hear. The truth. Anything. You’re my son.” Harry looked at him. “I’ve been having nightmares.” he managed to mumble out. “Could- Could I have a hug?” Only a few seconds passed before Regulus’ arms were wrapped tight around Harry.
Harry didn’t know how to feel and he surely didn’t know what to ask this man who supposedly gave him life. “You said I could ask anything?” “Anything at all.” Harry nodded then paused and looked around. “Not here.” “Is there somewhere you have in mind?” Regulus asked.
Dumbledore chimed in, “I believe Harry has something that might be of use.” he pointed to the pocket of Harry’s robe containing the map. Harry smiled and pulled out the map. “Merlin, I haven’t seen this in ages.” “You know what this is? Oh, wait. If Dad, Sirius and Professor Lupin made it then you do. “Professor Lupin? Remus is a professor?” “Oh he was, then he had to leave, just got used to calling him that.” “You know once upon a time they were your Moony and Paddy?” “I guess they were huh?” “Moony was your 2nd word, right after dada. Sirius and I were quite miffed.” Harry chuckled.
Regulus pulled out his wand and pointed it at the map. “Open.” Harry gave him a look, “That’s not how you-” he stopped when he saw the words appear.
-Mr. Prongs would like to say that Regulus is looking extraordinarily handsome tonight-
-Mr. Padfoot feels the need to add that that’s disgusting and Prongs is a traitor and a brotherfucker-
-Mr. Moony would like to express his concern as he knows that Regulus is well aware of how to open this map-
“I forgot they did that, I wish it was real.” “Believe me, it was.” “I solemnly swear that I am up to no good,” spoke Harry. “The astronomy tower is free.” Regulus smiled. “I used to love it up there. It’s actually where your dad and I had our first kiss.” Harry made a face. “What? We were young and pining, and trying to hide from your uncle Sirius.”
-
The tower was just as beautiful as Regulus had remembered. “Have you thought of what you might like to ask?” “There’s so much. I guess- did- you want me? I mean you are a man and I’m sure that wasn’t easy.” “Harry I- Wait, there’s something else you need to know.” “What is it?” “You have sisters Harry.” Harry’s face became unreadable. “I- sisters?” “2. You have an older sister, Violet. She’s almost 20, that’s hard to believe, and you have a twin sister, Ruby.” “I have a twin?” “You do, I wish I had a photograph or something to show you.” “I can’t believe I have sisters,” Harry said smiling. “Back to your question, your dad and I were careful, but I got pregnant with Violet when I was only 16. I was terrified. I had just moved into the Potter manor, and it felt like everything in my life was crumbling, but then I had this thing, a baby, to look forward to. I’d be lying if I said we weren’t terrified, but I knew I wanted a family with your dad more than anything else in the world. It was hard and then the war happened and I got pregnant again, it was somehow even scarier, but I wanted you, I wanted all of you more than I can ever truly put into words.”
Tears were forming in Harry’s eyes. “I’ve never felt wanted before.” “Trust me, you were. You are.” “Could you tell me more about him- about Dad?” “Of course.” Regulus smiled. “He had the goofiest smile, he could turn anything into a joke. His hair was always sticking out, no matter how much hair potion he used. He was bloody brilliant at Quidditch, and the top of his class in Transfiguration, he did bomb quite a few potions exams though. He was so comforting to be around that almost everyone flocked to him with a problem at least once, which led him to being alone with his most of the time, he always said he didn’t mind but, he did.” “He sounds perfect.” “He was.” “You can talk more about him.”
“I first met him when I was 10. He and Sirius were coming off the train at the end of their 1st year, and I thought it was so cool that he was allowed to wear muggle clothes. As time went on my crush on him grew. But Sirius and I grew apart, which meant James was always just there, out of my reach. It wasn’t until my 5th year that we really spoke. Your uncle Sirius was being an arse to him and he went for a run in the forest when he came across me reading out there, he had been crying, and he wouldn’t stop apologising, I invited him to sit and talk, and that’s when it started. For a while, he’d check the map and if I was alone he’d come to talk, about Sirius, about your grandparents, about anything really. And then one night in here it was my turn to speak. I think in that moment I knew my love for him wouldn’t really go away. And then he kissed me, and everything just felt perfect. But then, it stopped for a bit, we barely talked, and I got so mad at him. Finally one day he pulled me inside a broom cupboard and snogged my face off.”
Harry made a face. “I seriously don’t need to know that part.” “So I suppose I shouldn’t tell you what else happened in that cupboard?” “Definitely not. You mentioned my grandparents, what were they like?” Regulus smiled. “They were perfect too. It runs in the family. Your grandfather, Fleamont, was an extraordinary wizard, he invented Sleekeazy’s hair potion. He loved working on muggle machines with Sirius too, helped him fix up a motorbike and several cars. And Merlin, I don’t think there’s anything he wouldn’t have done for your grandmother.” Harry smiled. “What was she like?” “Her name was Euphemia but almost everyone called her Effie. She took pride in being a mother, not just to your dad, but to anyone who needed it. They took Sirius in, and then me, and I can’t count how many times our friends slept over. She never let us go hungry, and she had this amazing garden that lined the entire Manor, with rows of fresh vegetables and herbs. They both died of Dragon Pox before you and Ruby were born, it’s a shame, they would’ve loved you. But truth be told, it’s probably best that the Pox got them and not the Deatheaters.”
“What about your family?” “I don’t have much of one. My parents were terrible people, always wanting more money and power than they could handle. Sirius took care of me until he went off to Hogwarts, a lot of very bad things happened that year. Everyone in the family married their cousins to keep it pure so there’s quite a bit of us, but when Sirius and I went our own way, the blood-traitor way, we were cut off.” “That’s horrible.” “We managed.”
Harry paused. “You- you were in Slytherin right?” “I was. Almost every Black has been, going back centuries. I think the whole family had a fit when Sirius was sorted into Gryffindor.” “The sorting hat almost put me in Slytherin.” “Is that so?” Harry nodded. “I begged it not to. I- I thought Slytherin was a bad place to be, I thought I didn’t belong. Maybe I was wrong.” “My son, the sorting hat knows what it is doing. Where you truly belong. And if you ask me, it takes mighty courage to stand up to it, a Gryffindor's courage." “Thank you.” “Anytime.”
“You know you can ask me questions too.” “I suppose I can. Um- what’s your favorite class?” “Definitely D.A.D.A. It’s useful to know how to protect myself but I like the thrill and mystery of it too.” “That’s wonderful. You know I saw your quidditch trophy in the case.” “Oh I love quidditch! It gives me such a rush, like nothing else.” “I felt the same way, I was a seeker too.” “You were?” Harry asked with an excitement-filled face. “Mhhm and your dad was a chaser. He loved it way more than me though, you know he wanted enough kids to make an all-Potter quidditch team, I, on the other hand, was not so fond of popping out 7 of you.” “I couldn’t imagine.”
“So, here comes a dad question. Do you fancy anyone?” “Well- Harry paused. “I think so. I just, I don’t have anyone other than my mates to talk about it with I guess.” “You can talk to me about it.”
“Well, I know I liked girls, but I think I like boys too.” Harry paused to see how Regulus would take hearing that. “Harry, if you think you liking boys is going to get a reaction out of me we might have to get that head of yours checked because I’ve been going on about how gay I was for your father for the last hour.” “Right.”
“There was this boy I really liked.” “Yeah?” “Yeah, he was brilliant. A Hufflepuff, smart and kind, bloody amazing at Quidditch.” “What happened?” Harry looked down. “Pettigrew killed him. Right in front of me.” “Oh, Harry.” “I never got to tell him, and after I carried his body back, his dad just yelled at me and-” “Made it worse?” Harry nodded. “It was the first time I ever saw death. At least enough to register it.” Regulus nodded. “The thestrals are beautiful though, aren’t they? In their own way.” Harry laughed. “Yeah, I guess. You’ve seen them?” “I have.” “I didn’t even though they existed until this year.” “I bet it was jarring to find out.” “Thought I was losing it. But I did make a friend out of it.” “Well, that’s nice.” “I guess, she doesn’t have many I hear.” “Why’s that?” “Well for one, everyone calls her ‘Loony Lovegood’.” Regulus made a noise that Harry couldn’t quite decipher, then whispered under his breath. “Pandora.” “Pandora?” asked Harry. Regulus smiled. “She was my best friend. She hardly ever made sense to anyone, but she made everything make sense to me there for a bit.” “She sounds like a good friend.” “She was. Luna, who is assume is your friend, is her daughter.” “Well, that makes sense.” “I’ve always hoped Dora was ok.”
Harry gets a sad look on his face. “I hate to be the one to tell you this but, the reason Luna can see the Thestrals is she watched her mother die.” Tears pooled in Regulus’ eyes. “Seems like everyone good is gone. In one way or another.” “I’m sorry.” “It’s alright. Bound to happen eventually I suppose.” “That doesn’t make it any easier.” “No, it doesn’t.”
“So what happens now?” “No idea. Suppose I need to go to America next to find Violet, Ruby, and Leo.” “Who’s Leo?” “Figures you wouldn’t know about that either.” “Leo is Sirius and Remus’ son, your dad and I were his godparents.” “I didn’t know they had a son.” “I guess Dumbledore made a lot of people keep a lot of things tight-lipped. Well, Lily is technically Leo’s mum, she and Remus did some muggle procedure for Sirius and Remus to have a baby.” “Should- Should Leo have been the one to live with the Dursleys all this time?” “That’s right.” “Wow. I’m not sure how to feel about that.” “Me either. That’s why I came here. To talk to Dumbledore about it. He’s the one that switched you two.” “I can’t believe he did that. Do- Do I live with you now?” “I’d love if you did, although I understand if you want to stay with them, some sense of normalcy.” No!” Harry piped back, a little too quickly. Regulus would definitely ask about that later. “Although, we need to find a place to live.” “Well, Sirius did offer for me to stay with him, I’m sure he’d let you too. He’s on the down low since the Azkaban break but-” “That’s nice Harry, but I doubt he’d want to see me after all this time.” “There’s no harm in trying.” “I guess. Would you want to go with me?” “To see Sirius?” “Why not?” “I don’t think I can leave Hogwarts in the middle of the term.” “Wanna know a secret Harry?” “What?” “Well first of all I’m your dad, so I can do whatever the hell I want when it comes to advocating for you. And second, while I may be a Potter, I’m still equally a Black, and we get what we want in this world.” “Good to know.”