Strange Potter

Albus was quick to recover from his surprise. "This is unexpected but welcome. I didn't believe you would ever wish to converse with me."

"There are matters that are more pressing than personal feelings." 

Albus examined the man. How calm he was. How he commanded attention. He believed he was in complete control of the situation. He seems to learn a lot from his mentor. She had the same energy.

"Would you care to sit?" Albus motioned to his desk.

Strange nodded and took a seat across from him.

"Lemon drop?"

"No thank you. I don't have much of a sweet tooth."

"Shame. They are quite good." Albus popped one in his mouth. "Before we begin can I say something?"

"Be my guest."

"Thank you." Albus's eyes twinkled. "You saved an innocent man from prison. I thank you for that."

"It was the right thing to do." Stephen shrugged.

"Very true. I regret I wasn't informed of the truth about Sirius and Peter. If I had known I would have assisted in his capture."

"There wasn't a lot of time. The spell I used to track Pettigrew was very time-sensitive." And I didn't want you involved.

"With that out of the way. What can I do for you, Dr. Strange? I feared your opinion of me might have caused us to not be able to converse."

"Even If I don't like someone. I am not foolish enough to not listen when they could provide important information." Strange reasoned.

"Yes. I must ask what have I done to warrant the animosity?"

"I have many issues with you and your 'leadership'."

"Nobody is perfect Dr. Strange. Have I made mistakes? Absolutely. But I've done my best with the situation."

Stephen rolled his eyes. "Your best? That's frightening."

Albus narrowed his eyes. "Is there a reason you came here or did you just wish to insult me?"

"I haven't begun to insult you Dumbledore. But there is a reason I'm here. Why were the Potters targets of Voldemort?"

Dumbledore straightened up. "It's hard to say why exactly. The dark lord was merciless. Any who challenged him were targets. James and Lily fought against him on multiple occasions. When he was given the opportunity by Mr. Pettigrew. He acted."

"You're withholding something." Strange smirked. "You gave just enough to answer the question without actually answering. A skill I'm sure you have much practice with."

Dumbledore exhaled a deep breath. "This animosity is getting us nowhere. We are both adults and both have a duty. Despite your opinions of me. I am on the side of good. I fight for every innocent person in this world."

"Again. A workaround. Now I'll be direct." Stephen leaned forward. "Why was Voldemort willing to spare Lily to kill Harry?!"

Albus looked at him in thought. "I'm afraid I don't understand. How can I possibly know what truly transpired between the two? I only have a speculation of the event."

Strange huffed and waved his hands.  Lily's voice began playing over them.  

"Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead!"

“Not Harry, not Harry, please not Harry!”

“Stand aside you silly girl … stand aside now.”

“Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead. Not Harry! Please … have mercy … have mercy… ”

The voices stopped and Stephen waited for Dumbledore to speak.

"How...how do you do that?"

"Magic." 

Dumbledore didn't look amused by the answer. "That night. How could I possibly know what Voldemort was planning? It's possible he wanted to make Lily watch before finishing her."

Strange didn't disagree with that. This dark lord was known for his cruelty. But once again Dumbledore didn't say he didn't know. Only asked how.

"Headmaster I'm giving you a chance to work with me against this evil. We both know he isn't gone. Not for good. Tell me everything you know and this world won't have to live through his return."

"You are aware of this? What have you learned about him? Any details can be vital to his defeat." 

"I know his body is gone but his spirit remains. And that there are several ways he could have accomplished this."

"This is my theory as well. But I have no solid proof. Only suspicions. But I'm not a liberty to disclose them with someone I don't know."

"In other words, you don't want to tell me. Are you that stubborn? To refuse my aid."

"I have lived longer than you. I have trusted and made mistakes with that trust. I have more faith in my judgment than a man I do not know."

"So if we were old associates you would tell me? Or tell members of your 'secrets vigilante group?" Strange knew full well that Dumbledore never disclosed anything with anyone in that group. Part of justified paranoia and because giving out information to others might have them disagree with it.

"I see Sirius has been telling you things he should have stayed quiet about."

"Remus as well. Both told me details of what James and Lily were doing against Voldemort. They too were reluctant but I've earned their trust."

"Yet you haven't earned mine." Dumbledore sat back. "It's nothing personal. The information I'm guarding is too dangerous in the wrong hands. Perhaps if you would encourage Sirius to speak with me we can begin to develop a working relationship." He offered.

"You are dead set to discuss Harry, aren't you? Why is that child so important to you? He is safe and happy. His parent's wishes have been honored. Why are you obsessed with him?" All the futures he saw he had an understanding of why. But he needed Dumbledore to learn that keeping things from people never went well.

"Things you can not understand. I failed to protect James and Lily. I will not fail to protect their son."

"You already have. It's another of my issues with you. I have low regard for child abusers. Even less for those who would ignore it."

Albus looked offended. "I would never harm a child!"

"No, you would just ignore it because it's the easy option." Stephen raised his voice. "I know exactly what life Harry would have lived had I not intervened. The dark years you knew full well he would have.

Dumbledore was for once at a loss of words. Yes, he knew the boy could suffer some difficulty living there but his safety was the most important thing.

"His safety was paramount!"

"It wasn't your decision! You don't get to play God with someone else's life! You don't get to choose where a child, that isn't yours, gets to live."

"Neither do you. If you would have simply left him, the wards would have taken hold. The whole family would be safe from all the darkness of this world. But you interfered and now none of them are truly safe!"

"The Dursleys didn't want Harry. They didn’t want anything to do with him. They choose to toss his off to me. A stranger. If someone from Voldemort's group found them how fast would they toss him to them?!"

"You placed spells on them!"

"After they gave me Harry and to only stop someone from forcing them to change their minds."

"Well, now they are in danger because of you."

"No, they're not. Who all knows of Lily's sister besides you? You didn't disclose their location to anyone, have you? And the world knows Harry isn't with them. So there is no reason for them to be in danger. Besides your protection was easily beaten even if it took hold."

"It is the strongest magic available. None who wished him harm would have been able to reach him."

"I don't know what's sadder. That excuse or the fact you believe it." 

Dumbledore was about reply when the doors opened and another man came in. His black cloak waving in the nonexistent breeze.

"Headmaster I set myself..." He then realized Dumbledore wasn't alone. "My apologies. I didn't know you were preoccupied."

"It's quite alright. I wasn't expecting company." Albus was thankful for the small distraction. "Dr. Strange may I introduce you to my new Head of Slytherin and Potions Professor? Severus Snape."

Stephen's eyes narrowed. "Care to explain why you have a Death Eater employed in a school?"

Snape straightened up further at this.

"Dr. Strange Professor Snape is no more a Death Eater than you or me. I trust him with my life." 

"The mark on his arm suggests otherwise." Stephen stood and looked at the man. "And If I'm not mistaken you trust Grindelwald with your life as well." He looked back at Dumbledore. "But it wasn't your life that ended. Was it?"

Dumbledore looked even more stunned. Deep personal history was so open to being discussed. By a man who shouldn't know any of it.

Snape was confused and intrigued. Albus's reaction said that this man was telling a very interesting story. If this man speaks true...then Albus has a darker history than people know. This could be useful.

"How do you know that?" Dumbledore asked once he regained his composure.

"A question for a straight answer. After we're alone." 

"If you wish to say something. Have the courage to speak directly to me." Snape sneered.

"I hardly think a terrorist is allowed to discuss courage. One who hides behind masks and strikes from the shadows. The word coward comes to mind." Strange turned his eyes at Snape.

That word would always infuriate the man. "I am NO coward!"

"Actions speak louder than your voice can scream."

"It's ironic that a man in charge of an organization that doesn't involve itself would cast judgment on me. How fast could this war have ended if you would have acted? Perhaps you were too afraid. Perhaps you are the coward?" Snape replied.

"We use to believe you could handle your problems. We were wrong. Based on what I have seen it's easy to see how the man who marked you like cattle came to be."

"You are not aware of what the dark lord is capable of. And do not pretend that you have any idea who I am."

"So you feel deep remorse over your choice to follow him? And that gives you a free pass to avoid the penalty for your crimes? The consequences."

"Don't speak to me of consequences! I chose to turn against him. I have earned my freedom and respect."

"Not from me."

"Dr. Strange. Severus has risked his life and welfare to provide information to Voldemort's inner circle. His actions saved many."

"Name them." 

"I'm sorry?" Confusion was on Dumbledore's face.

"Name someone his actions saved." At the lack of response, he continued. "So he's not as valuable as you believe?"

"Don't speak like I'm not in the room. I don't have to lower myself down to explain my actions to someone who knows nothing. You come in and act like you're all-knowing. When you are more ignorant than most." Snape sneered.

"I know enough. You have a very high opinion of yourself. Of course, having Albus Dumbledore backing you is no doubt one reason behind that. Do you think because he trusts you that gives you free rein? I honestly don't know how your arrogant head fit threw the door."

"Arrogance is thinking you can come in and demand the world bend to your wimps. Perhaps you've spent too much time with that dog Black?" 

"Personal issues with Mr. Black? Not my concern. Children are now in the same building as a terrorist. That's indisputable. But it is amusing that you do everything to avoid answering for your actions."

"You don't know anything about Black or that disgrace of a man Potter!"

"Severus." Dumbledore tried to calm the man.

"I don't know what Mr. Black or Mr. Potter did to you nor is it relevant. But disrespect the dead again and you won't like the consequences." Strange threatened.

Snape's sneer grew bigger. "Of course, the arrogant fool is being defended. The world is a better place without...."

He didn't get to finish as a portal opened under him and his startled yelp was the last thing heard before he disappeared.

"SEVERUS?!" Dumbledore shot up. "Where is he?!"

"Gone. I'll return him. After we have our conversation. He's alive and unharmed."

"Return him now!"

"No."

Dumbledore showed anger. He was not used to hearing that word in his castle. "You insulted him and now kidnapped him."

"I called him what he is. He fired back. Then refused to heed my warning. You would think you would defend your dead friend's honor. But you were strangely quiet."

"Do words truly hurt you?" The disappointment was practically dripping off Dumbledore's tongue.

"A man's last act was to give his life to buy his wife and son time. I think he deserves to not be disrespected in death."

"The personal history between Severus and James is a difficult one. Both were less than civil towards the other. Not to mention the problems with Sirius and Severus."

"I don't care. One risked death the protect his friends, one is dead, and the other is a member of the group whose leader was a psychopath."

"You don't wish to see both sides of the conflict?"

"He is an adult. If he can't let go of some grudge after the man gave his life. Then it's his problem that he needs to get over."

Despite what he was saying he would be asking Sirius what the man's issues were. But he could tell that Snape wasn't someone to let the past go. Just a few minutes with the man were too much.

"Still to treat him so..."

"Back to the matter at hand." Strange cut him off. "Voldemort. You have yet to answer my question."

"You are a very disrespectful man!" One of the portraits spoke.

"And who are you?" Strange looked at the painting.

"Phineas Nigellus Black." The portrait said smugly.

"Black? An old relation to Sirius I assume."

"That disgrace is no Black!"

"Based on what I've heard, that is a good thing. Black in name but light in the heart."

"He's an embarrassment to my family. It's a shame I've had to watch my once-proud line go so low."

"Low to you." Stephen shrugged. "Please be silent. This is an important conversation you are interrupting. Or will I have to silence you?"

"Arrogant fool! Only the current headmaster can silence us."

Strange made a circle in the air and all sounds from Phineas stopped. Shocking the rest of the room's paintings.

"Now back to Voldemort. I'm still waiting for an answer." Stephen sat back down.

Dumbledore was once again alarmed how the rules and magic of his world didn't apply to this Doctor. "You make demands and threats. Why would I give aid to a man who bullies everyone he believes himself better than? Voldemort has the same mindset."

"Comparing me to him? That's amusing." Stephen chuckled. "If I wanted to rule this world I would have already done it. My job. My duty is to protect it. Am I heavy-handed? Absolutely. I discovered that is the only way to get threw the thick skulls that are abundant here. Logic and reasoning are the first casualties in your world."

"Even now you insult my world."

"You insult yourselves. None of you wish to act like responsible adults. They want a hero to save them from the monsters. So they look to you. The Ministry trembled at a name. Turning a blind eye to the infestation that let him rise to power. Only a fool thinks the problems of your world are at the feet of one man. This has been building for decades. Maybe centuries. Right now is the best time to begin pushing those true evils back. We both know nothing would have changed had I not forced it!"

Dumbledore raised his voice slightly. "You can't force your will on the world. You will only breed resentment and hostility."

"I'm forcing this world to open its eyes. The Ministry is finally seeing how bad it's gotten. People are not living in fear of their neighbors anymore because I showed the truth of the mark. I know some may have slipped but you know the numbers would have been much more otherwise."

"You are very short-sighted."

"Funny, I was thinking the same for you. At least my actions give me a chance for a better future. What was yours?"

"Our world needs healing now. No more division."

"To heal properly you have to cut out the infection. But we are off track. What we both agree on is Voldemort needs to be dealt with. And I still need to know his reasons for targeting Harry."

Dumbledore sighed. He would rather discuss anything else. "I have no answer for you. As well as I know him, I can't see into his head and can only imagine what he planned. I truly wish I could be for forward coming."

"No, you don't. You know more than you want to tell me. That is clear. Your secrets are going to cause more problems than they solve."

"Everything is under control. The secrets I hold are vital to the survival of this world and millions of innocents. I will safeguard them and only share with those I deem trustworthy." Even then it would only be what they needed to know to accomplish the goal.

"So what is your plan to defeat him for good? You do have a plan don't you?"

"I have many plans. With his defeat, I have time to act. Don't worry yourself over this. Everything is under control."

Strange shook his head at the man's arrogance. He would believe he has a wildfire under control. He doesn't want to discuss Harry or the Horcrux. Well the less he knows, the better the boy is.

"Well, obviously that is the only answer I'll get from you." Strange moved on. "Tell me everything else then. Including his real name."

Dumbledore exhaled a deep breath. "And where did you find this information?"

"I looked. There's no record of any lord or even the Voldemort name anywhere in your community. The closest I've found is a rough French translation. Which means his name isn't his birth name. So who is he?"

Dumbledore knew he had a choice here. Withholding this information was risky but he didn't know what side this Strange was truly on. But if he did share some of it then perhaps it could be the start of a bridge of compromise. Something that wasn't too informative.

"He is one of my greatest regrets. A student who came from a horrible place and embraced the darkness like a lover."

"So you taught him."

"Me and several teachers. I was only a professor when he first walked these halls. He is an orphan. Lived in a troubled orphanage and was known to be...confrontational with others."

"His name?"

"Tom Marvolo Riddle Jr. His mother named him after he was born but she passed soon after."

"What was her name?"

"Merope Gaunt. A tragic woman. Very dark history there. " Dumbledore reluctantly answered.

"Father?"

"Tom Riddle Sr."

"Why didn't he take care of his son after she died?"

"I'm not entirely sure. I know there was a falling out between his parents before he was born and it's possible he may not have even known of the boy." Dumbledore sidestepped.

"Interesting. Tell me about Tom,  the Jr. How did an orphan become the greatest evil wizard in your world?"

"A large number of unfortunate circumstances. He never had friends or desired them. But his studies were impeccable. He was one of the smartest and most talented students I have ever seen. If only things would have been different he could have been the greatest wizard to walk these halls. One who could have been a true example of our community." Dumbledore said sadly.

"This affects you. You feel you're responsible for his fall."

"I...I suspected he was delving into dark arts but the time of his schooling was when Grindelwald was at the height of his power and I had to face him. I often wish it would have been another time. I may have been able to help him."

"Based on what I've heard of this dark lord. There was nothing you could have done. This kind of evil can't be guided or mentored. Some people just want to watch the world burn."

"Unfortunately true." He agreed. "But still it's a regret I will carry forever."

Stephen decided to toss the old man a bone and answer one of his questions.

"Dumbledore. You answered some questions with honesty. I believe. To answer your earlier one. The Ancient One kept details on all influential people in your world. You were her biggest chapter. I read all her volumes recently. Well, all the recent ones." It's difficult to go through 700 years of notes.

"I don't believe that is a good thing. At least not from her perspective of me." He mused.

"It's not flattering. She said you had the potential to be a great man but will always choose the easy path over the right one."

Dumbledore looked offended. Those words were indeed told to him by her all those years ago. "I always strive to do what is right."

"Those were her words but they do have merit. By your own words, you stayed in the safety of this school rather than face Grindelwald even though you knew what he was planning. You chose yourself over millions. You let a corrupt ministry be run by fools. Rather than take the position that would be handed to you. Don't tell me you didn't want to be Minister. I never wanted to be a sorcerer but I knew I had a responsibility. You hid from it. You left a baby on a doorstep. I easily took him without magic or you even knowing. Seeing what I'm getting at here?"

"You don't understand. Things are far more complicated than you wish to believe."

"Nothing is ever black and white but you do have a pattern." Stephen rose. "Headmaster I'm going to go. If I leave then you will lose your chance to work with me. I will simply act without you. So I'll ask one last time. Why did Voldemort target Harry?"

Dumbledore didn't reply. His silence was the only answer he would give.

"Very well then." Strange moved towards the wall. "You made your choice."

"Wait! Severus?" The old man reminded him.

"Oh right." Stephen spun his hands in a circle above the room.

A portal opened and Snape fell threw. Landing on the ground, hard.

"I...I have been falling...for twenty minutes!" Snape shouted as he tried to stand.

"Maybe next time you will think before you speak." Strange starred the man down.

Snape rose up and on instinct went for his wand but self-preservation stopped him when he saw Strange's hands began to glow.

"Understand one thing, Professor." Strange moved face to face with him. "I don't care that Dumbledore trust you. I don't care what reason you 'choose' to turn on Voldemort. I do NOT trust you. I WILL be watching this school closely. And you even closer."

A portal opened before Dumbledore or Snape could reply and Strange left.

It's bad enough Potter's spawn has Black as a guardian but with him. The brat will be everything his good-for-nothing father was. If the brat shows up here I'll put him in his proper place.

"I apologize for that. He was here unexpectedly."

"I'll be in my quarters." Snape's cloak billowed as he left. Anger filled him as he walked.

Dumbledore reached into his desk and pulled out a small bag of lemon drops. They had a calming potion infused with them. He rarely used them but were handy to have. He popped one in and felt the potion take hold.

"That could have gone better." He spoke to no one.

"Understatement." One of the portraits spoke. "He is certainly a force to be reckoned with."

"He's disrespectful! He has no place in these halls." Phineas shouted after the spell silencing him vanished.

"Like there is any way to stop him. Once a Supreme is involved things are changed. Forever."

"Maybe that's a good thing." Another said.

"Enough please." Albus rose from his seat. The conversation left him even more tired and was hopeful tomorrow would be a better day.

But he couldn't shake the feeling that those words were too true. Things had changed and he didn't like how they had.

The following few days had Wanda and Strange discussing Harry's powers and setting up training areas around the wood and lakes of Sirius's cabin. 

Stephen also made good on his words and place more magical wards than the Marauders had ever seen before. The cabin had more protection than Hogwarts had.

He also set a door inside that was connected directly to his Sanctum. One Sirius was exploiting.

"How did your talk with Dumbledore go?" Sirius sat across from Stephen, Harry on his lap

"How did you know that?"

"Who else would you not want to talk to?" Sirius smirked.

"Very true. It was more informative than I thought. But he doesn't want to give me any information. Especially concerning Harry and Voldemort."

"Can't you just force him to talk?"

"I don't like doing that and he was given a chance to be cooperative. He passed on it."

"You didn't have a problem using this chair on me."

"You were a possible criminal. Dumbledore is a lot of things but not that. Officially. But while I was there I did have an encounter with his new potion professor. A Severus Snape."

"Snivellus is a teacher?! Has Dumbledore lost his mind?" Sirius groaned.

"Interesting reaction, and choice of names. Very immature."

"Force of habit. The man is a pile of dragonshit. Practically skipped joining the dark lord."

"Why do I have the feeling you're withholding something?"

Sirius shook his head. "Look when we were in school Snape and James...well they were like water and fire. And I'll admit sometimes we took things too far with him."

"So you bullied him?"

"Hardly. Can you bully a bully? Snape loved targeting younger years. Of course, none of them told the teachers all the time he hexed them out of fear he would do worse."

"So that justifies you bullying him?"

"Nothing justifies how I was. Or James. But we at least went after those our age. Though James did hate Snape for more than his associates and did go after him or others just for fun sometimes."

"Explain."

"Snape and Lily were friends. Why? I have no idea. James was in love with Lily since the second year, but she couldn't stand being around him."

"Yet they got married."

"James grew up. When we were in school we were pranksters. Called ourselves the Marauders. Childish I know but we were children. Snape was one of our biggest targets."

"Why?"

"For James, it was for several reasons. His closeness with Lily and Snape was a walking example of everything the war was about. He created dark curses, called people mudbloods, intimidated those smaller than him, and hung out with others who we knew were Death Eaters. Knew but couldn't prove."

"So you were some shining examples of standing up to bullies by pranking them?"

"Of course not. We were spoiled brats that did what we wanted our targets were usually those who showed the same characteristics as Death Eaters. But there wasn't a lot that could be done. The teachers couldn't do much because all the ones Snape and his friends targeted were too afraid to say anything. We weren't. So we humiliated them. They came after us. More than once Snape hexed us in the back. Sometimes with spells, we knew nothing about. Ones that would kill us if we weren't fast enough to dodge. He never missed a chance to come after us so we never miss an opportunity either."

"Sounds like your professors were failures. Neither of you should have been able to get away with any of that."

"They did their best but it was a difficult time. Fear was paramount throughout the school. It's difficult to be a normal student during war. Even more to be a professor."

"Sounds like an excuse to me."

"Maybe but it is what it is. Why do you care about my less than stellar past?"

"I don't. I expect adults to act like adults. Childish behavior is left in the past."

"I will admit I went too far once. Probably more than once."

"How?"

Sirius looked down at Harry with some shame on his face. "I nearly got Snape killed. And I used Remus as the weapon."

Sirius told Strange the whole story of that night he told Snape how to get to Remus.

"I never actually thought he would go. But that doesn't excuse what I did. If not for James.."

"Why weren't you expelled?"

"Dumbledore didn't expel people. Not once. If he would have back then. I would have been pissed but now...I  probably deserved it."

"Well, at least you admit it. Still, what person goes looking for a werewolf the night he transforms?"

"He didn't know."

"Then why was he obsessed with finding out? What was he hoping to discover?"

"Who knows what goes threw his head? Besides hatred and bitterness."

"We can't change the past. But I would recommend you take a page out of your friend's book and try to grow up."

"I'm trying." 

"Hopefully this Snape will too."

Not bloody likely. Sirius scoffed to himself.

Remus rolled down his sleeve as Bruce finished another round of blood draws. "Will you need any more from me today?"

"No. This should be enough." Bruce put the vials in the container. 

Remus sat up. "I thank you again for this. But I fear it will be a waste of time."

"Maybe." Bruce shrugged. "But you never know."

Remus looked the man over. One question he hadn’t asked came to his mind. "Dr. Banner. If you don't mind can I ask you something?"

"Just Bruce and go ahead."

"What did you mean when you said you might understand what I am?"

"F.R.I.D.A.Y brings up the feed on Big Green," Bruce spoke.

Suddenly a large projection was showing. Remus fell back at what he was seeing. A huge green monster was destroying smaller monsters and buildings. It was a terrifying sight.

"What magic is that?!" He finally let out.

"It's not. That is me on a bad day." Bruce sat across next to him. 

"You? You become that?!"

"When I lose control. He takes over. Sometimes just getting me angry can unleash him."

"I...that is terrible. At least I know when I will lose control." 

"I've made my peace with him. We have to live with each other. So when I say I understand. Believe it." 

"How do you get by with it? Don't people treat you like...?"

"A monster? Some." Bruce smirked. "Some even see Hulk as a hero. Maybe you can be seen the same?"

"Not going to happen. My kind is practically exiled in our world. And I can't blame them for it. Many werewolves joined the dark lord. They did horrible things."

"But not you. You choose to fight against him. That means something. You may be seen as a monster to some but you don't have to see yourself that way."

Remus let those words sink in. This man was smart and wise. But it wasn't easy to let go of past pain.

Suddenly a small elf popped into the building.

Bruce stepped back. "What the hell?!"

"Easy," Remus said. "It's a house-elf." He looked at the small creature. "What are you doing here?"

"Letter for Remus Lupin." The elf delivered it and popped away.

"Are those common?"

"Fairly." He opened it and read. 

It was a statement from the American branch Bank. Similar to Gringotts. An account was opened in his name and a large amount was deposited.

"Damnit, Sirius." He looked at Bruce. "I have to go strangle a dog." 

Bruce gave him a confused look but didn't press on. 

A portkey later and he was outside the perimeter of the cabin. 

"Still prefer those portals." He mumbled. He marched into the house and stopped at the sight. 

Sirius was passed out on the couch. Harry laying on top of his chest asleep too. 

"Tomorrow," Remus said softly. He conjured and blanket and put it over the two before going to his room.

That morning.

While Remus was still sleeping Wanda knocked on the door. 

"Mr. Black."

"Just Sirius please." He stepped aside holding Harry in the other arm.

Harry saw her and smiled at her.

"Hello, Harry." She tickled his bare foot.

"Careful he hasn't been changed yet," Sirius warned.

One quick nappies change and Harry was ready to play. 

Wanda smiled and sat down with him on the floor. She was partial to the boy not just because of his powers. He was an adorable kid. But she did like keeping an eye out for any signs he was using his abilities.

So far he didn't. 

Sirius watched Wanda and Harry. The boy seemed to take a liking to her. The odd connection between the two was obvious. Something he didn't understand but was happy someone could help Harry with his new 'gift.'

Prongs what the hell am I going to do? I was never parenting material. You're the one who grew up. Without you and Lily. How am I supposed to handle this?

Sirius, we want you to be Harry's godfather.

The day Harry was born. The day he held him. The day James asked him to take care of the most important thing in his world.

"Padfoot," Remus said as he came down the hall. "We need to talk."

"I didn't do it." 

"Yes, you bloody well did!" 

"Calm down." Sirius motioned to the other room. 

They entered and shut the door behind them. Sirius cast a silent spell on the room but put one out that let him keep track of what was happening in the other one.

"What's this about?" He asked Remus.

"This!" He held out the bank statement.

"Wow, they work fast here." Sirius chuckled.

"I don't need your handouts!"

"Good thing it didn't come from me." Sirius shrugged. "That was what James and Lily left you in their will. I can't and won't take it back."

"This is too much!"

"It's what James wanted you to have. He knew you would never take any money from either of us so he left it to you. And you can't do anything about it."

"Sirius..."

"Don't Sirius me. James wanted to help his friend. You might not ever be able to live off it alone but at least you don't have to worry about having food or a roof. Just take the damn money and accept the fact he wanted you to have it."

Sirius patted his shoulder and left the man there.

"Damn you Prongs. Why did you have to do this? Now Sirius sounds like the reasonable one." Remus mumbled.

Settling into the house was very easy when you can wave a wand and be finished. Everything was in place and all the rooms were furnished.

Charms added to the inside made the house a mansion on the inside. He could easily house the entire Order with ease. 

Not that he had any plans to do so. Strange talk with Dumbledore may not have led to much but it saved Sirius a trip. He didn't want to talk to him any time soon.

But I do need to go there eventually. James cloak and my motorcycle. Need to get them back.

Suddenly the bell hanging in the kitchen began making noise. Someone was at the parameter of the house.

"Stay with Harry and Wanda," Sirius ordered Remus. He pulled his wand and slipped out the door.

Carefully he made his way down but had to stop dead in his tracks. The beauty from Starks Tower was casually leaning again an automobile.

"How did you find us?" Sirius asked after he canceled his notice me not spell.

Natasha didn't seem too surprised by someone appearing out of nowhere. "I put a tracker on your jacket when you shook my hand." She pulled out the coat Sirius was wearing and showed the small device on the sleeve.

"That little thing can track a person? Wait why did you do that?

"Unknown people are a risk in my line of work. I couldn't find anything on you from any source. That alone has me curious. There are very few who can hide from my people. I'm guessing this is where you live. The real place is hidden by some sort of magic." She looked around at the wooden area.

"Yeah,  Strange put some many spells around it's very impressive. But it will only let people I allow in. Except for the Wanda woman. She can bend them easily. Too easily."

"That's Wanda. You'll get used to it."

"So you tracked me because you don't know me and think I'm untrustworthy." He smirked. "Or did you just want to see a handsome face again?"

Natasha stepped forward right up close to him. "You got me." She smiled. "Now where is the handsome baby boy, Harry?"

Sirius's face went from cocky to deflated instantly. "That hurt..."

"Can I come in or not?"

Sirius paused. She was beautiful but for some reason, he felt uneasy about her. Something he missed when they first met. Now she was appearing right outside his home. After tracking him.

"Strange trust you?"

"As much as a man like him can. Wanda does too. Same with Bruce and Tony."

Sirius decided he could handle one muggle woman if she wasn't all she seems. "Okay. Welcome."

He did a big theatrical show of his hand and the house appeared.

"Once that would have surprised me. Not so much anymore."

They walked in silence. When Sirius opened the door he found Remus and Wanda standing near the door. Remus wand in hand.

"Just another surprise guest," Sirius explained.

"Nat." Wanda greeted.

"Wanda. Do you prefer Remus or Mr. Lupin?"

"Just Remus is fine." He put his wand away.

"Mum!" Harry saw Natasha in the doorway.

"I'm going to have to help him as he gets older to not do that." Sirius rubbed the back of his neck.

Natasha didn't respond. She just lowered herself down as the toddler took an uneasy step toward her.

When he reached her she picked him up. "Such a big boy." She smiled.

It should be weird hearing a baby call her mom. It was strange but nice. And also painful. A reminder of what she can never have. Plus the sadness of the child, not even remembering who his mother was.

"Odd he only does that with you," Wanda smirked.

"He's young." Natasha shrugged. "Any issues?" 

"None. He's not been using them lately. I consider that a good thing for now."

"You and me both." Sirius agreed.

Natasha slipped out the door to the porch Harry in her arms.

Sirius motioned to Remus and the other guy rolled his eyes.

"Wanda, fancy a cup of tea?" Remus asked the woman.

"Yes. Thank you."

They stepped into the kitchen and Sirius went outside.

"I like the place," Natasha observed as Harry hung off her. "Quite. Peaceful."

"And far enough away from anyone noticing all the magic bound to happen." Sirius agreed.

"Magic. I thought only Strange and his group was in the magical world. But I'm surprised you remained hidden so long." Natasha sat on the swing Harry sitting happily on her lap.

"We put a lot of effort into being secretive. Very strict punishments for anyone who risk the Statute."

"How do you handle all the cameras that everyone has?"

"Film is tricky with magic. Easy to fool."

Natasha raised her eyebrow. "Film? Camera film? What about high-definition photos from a phone?"

"Phones can take pictures now?" Sirius asked in surprise.

"You are far behind." She pulled out her phone and aimed it at him. "Do some magic."

"I don't think that is..."

"Scared? Don't want to embarrass yourself with your stick?" She teased.

Sirius gave her a cocky grin and stood. Soon a large dog was standing in his place.

"Impressive." She complimented. 

"Pafooo!" Harry shouted and bounced on Natasha's lap.

The dog barked and jumped up on the swing. 

"Don't even think about licking me. Unless you want to be neutered." She threatened.

That made the dog slide back. Then Sirius was sitting next to her. "You're not the first redhead to threaten me with that." He mumbled.

"Here." She showed him the recording.

Sirius watched in stunned revelation as he saw himself transforming. "And all Muggles have access to these devices?"

"Mine has a few features that aren't on the market but all have these cameras."

"That's terrifying. But magic should have made it not work."

"Works fine." She replied.

"That's odd. Maybe Stranges magic lets it work?"

"Not my area of expertise." She put her phone away.  "Luckily things like this would be dismissed as a fake. You have no idea how many videos on YouTube are labeled as hoaxes but are very real."

"What's a YouTube?"

Natasha's eyebrows went up high. "You have a lot to learn."

"I'll be the first to admit that...What would you say to teach me? Over dinner?" Sirius asked.

"Persistent aren't you? Wanda no longer has your eye?"

"She...made it clear that was a bad idea. So far you haven't completely shut me down."

"Lucky for you. Because I don't miss."

"So is that a yes?"

Natasha leaned back. "I don't think you understand what kind of woman I am."

"That's the problem. I want to learn."

"If you don't like what you find?"

"I find that very unlikely."

The redhead smirked. "Well, I am curious about this world of yours. I'm not usually in the dark on things."

"Happy to answer your questions." Sirius smiled.

"Then I won't pass up a free meal." She answered.

"Harry!" Stephen shouted. "Stop this!"

A huge red dome covered the area. Hogwarts lay in rubble. Teachers and students are dead all around them.

Voldemort and Dumbledore both lay broken and lifeless.

Sirius and Remus are dead as well. Wanda and Natasha laying to them.

A teenage Harry floated above them. His eyes glowing red.

"I will never stop," Harry spoke. 

"Don't become this!"

"I am this!" Harry said so calm it sent shivers up Strange's spine.

The two traded spells and Harry unloaded on Strange.

"This won't bring them back!" Stephen yelled.

"I can! I will. I'll bring everyone back!"

"It won't be real!" Strange implored.

"It will be to me!" Harry's eyes grew even redder.

"This isn't what they would want!"

"Then you shouldn't have stopped me! I could have saved them!" The power radiating off him was causing the ground to shake.

Harry blasted Stephen back and he felt himself being lifted as Harry's magic tore into him. Then he felt nothing.

Strange shot up. Cold sweat covered him. Shaking his head he went to the sink and splashed his face.

How I wish that was just a dream...