Strange Potter

Dumbledore sat at his desk. Ten years flew by so fast. The older he got the faster time seemed to fly.

Youth is truly wasted on the young.

The last ten years had been a mix. Some positive, but a lot negative as well.

With so many Voldemort followers in Azkaban or deceased his influence had been drastically reduced.

When stories were printed about him the authors used his title instead of 'dark lord' or 'he who must not be named. It was a welcome change. He often said that fear of his name gave him power. 

Without the darker influence in the Ministry Bagnold had effectively turned the corruption to a small percentage. It would always be impossible to remove it all. 

Such is politics, unfortunately.

The Non-Magical Protection Act, Arthur's bill, was her last act. It passed, upsetting the likes of Lucius but it now gave them the same level of protection as any magical person. It began as a way to protect them from magical objects but Strange used it to ensure that all non-magical were safe from all dangerous magical influences.

Including long prison sentences for anyone who used magic on one, unless in self-defense and they had to prove that they were truly in danger. Many of the Purebloods, who didn't join Voldemort, but believed his philosophy fought hard against it. But without the support of the wizards that lost their power and freedom,  thanks to Strange, it passed.

Tom may have a new group of recruits when he returns with this law. I wish they would have listened to me. It was too much too soon. Our world is too fragile. Change must be slow and careful. 

That fell on deaf ears with Sirius and Strange. 

He may have been able to steer the assembly in the proper direction if he had indeed been given the position of Chief Warlock, but he never received it.

Another topic Sirius was able to argue against. He somehow got the school board to agree that if Albus wished to remain Headmaster then that should be his priority. When they forced him to choose between the both Chief Warlock position and Headmaster he, of course, chose the latter.

Now Augusta held the role and she was a force on her own. With Frank in his seat and Sirius, they became a power trio. Plus any support Strange gave was heavily influential. Out of fear or respect.

Sirius pushing through an exemption in the trace for First-Gens. I don't believe that will ever take off. That allowed them the opportunity to use magic after their first year, in designated areas within Diagon Alley was another battle altogether.

Sirius had a lot of pushback because of that. His argument of those born to magical families did so already was heavily disputed but he provided a detailed report of how only First-Gens ever got the warning. Even if it applied to all underage. 

He explained that he and many others grew up in magical houses and did magic all the time. They never got in trouble for it, because the trace only worked in the muggle world. He spoke passionately about giving everyone the same benefits. His compromise was to allow them to use some magic in areas in Diagon Alley. Shops that would be safe, monitored and protected for any who wanted.

Then he topped the bill by saying he would take responsibility as the first shop. That day he opened The Black Emporium. A shop that sold multiple trinkets and muggle items. But also had a designated spot in the basement for the test trial.

Three years later and the Emporium was one of the most popular shops in Diagon Alley. Constant business and a line of students wanting to show their parents what they learned. 

Other shops saw the stream of customers and followed suit creating their spots.

It did give a fairer chance for the muggleborns but was a slap in the face of those more traditional witches and wizards. 

No his issues were how Hogwarts had changed. Sirius and Strange were relentless in their changes. Changes he didn't need in his school.

Binns was replaced but a young woman from Paris. He had a suspension that she was part Veela but she never confirmed it. He had to admit she had a way to get the student's attention, especially the older ones, and there were no reports of anyone falling asleep during her lectures.

Her teachings were a mixed kind. She did move past the Goblin Rebellions and the curriculum was very detailed. Almost too many details in his opinion. Some things are better left in the past.

Non-Magical History was changed as well. No longer did it just focus on advancements on the muggle side. It gave the full history of major events in their history. The new professor went into great detail to show the similarities between Voldemort's rise and the muggle Hitler.

He even left the idea that he stole his rise from the muggle, something that didn't sit well with the outgoing years. Ones that saw him as a revolutionary, not a copycat. 

More fighting over nothing. More division when there should be unity. 

But the biggest problem was Potions. 

At first, things were going fine with Severus and Albus had been able to maintain the school board's eyes away from the new professor but that didn't last.

He knew Severus wasn't happy being a professor but he had to keep an eye on him. So he gave him leave to behave however he wished. 

That was a mistake he would regret. With the portraits monitoring the students they also witnessed Snape failing to properly investigate any issues with his Slytherins. He never looked into the cause or who was at fault. He simply punished the opposite house. More often than not the Slytherin was responsible for the altercation.

His class was even worse. There were many cauldrons ruined but any word about being sabotaged, by others tossing in ingredients, was ignored and he gave detentions.

Some of the new students spoke to McGonagall about it. He would have once been able to make her see reason but all the reports from the portraits backed up the child's claims and she brought the matter to the school board.

Sirius blindsided him with a detailed report of the decline of non Slytherins in Snape's class. Snape argued that they lacked the talent and he refused to teach anyone who didn't meet his terms.

Strange had followed as well and brought several examples of those same students passing a separate course with a different instructor, that he had provided and all did well enough to qualify for Healers or Aurors. Severus was irate and argued that Strange and Sirius were biased against him.

This may have been true but the stats didn't lie. Snape may have looked good on paper with the number of people passing his classes but when broken down it was favored in his own houses. 

In a vote that he was sure he could placate them on, but overestimated himself, they had made it clear. If he didn't want the job and refused to behave like an adult then his term as potion professor was over.

Albus argued he was the headmaster and only he had the power to remove a professor. 

The board agreed but they had the power to remove him. Even if temporary suspension the replacement could remove Severus and Albus wouldn't be able to rehire him.

An agreement was made. Snape would remain on the condition his class was monitored with a portrait and that all houses saw a rise in graduates.

Albus sighed at the memory of the long rant the angry man had. But there was nothing he could do. The school board's constant involvement had hindered his way.

Why did Sirius have to get involved? Lucius would have been a welcome addition compared to him. At least I would have a better idea of what his plans were and Lucius wasn't as well-liked as he liked to believe. He worked through fear and intimidation. Sirius was much more open and welcoming. I believe many on the board are hoping to have a good standing with Strange so they agree with Sirius.

There was one bright light at the end of this. Harry would be coming here. Ten years of not knowing what he was like or how he was raised.

Albus already had his plan in place to test the boy.

Voldemort was still out there and I need to be sure. The stone would be a perfect incentive for him. I can verify his continued existence and see if Harry would be ready for what is to come while seeing if Lily's protection is still in place.

And with the new minister, I may be able to regain some control. 

Harry finished his morning workout and showered before going back to his room. Doc and Nat both encouraged him with martial arts, most not taught to children, and he was pretty good at them.

Sirius didn't see the appeal. He kept himself in shape by jogging but fighting? That's what a wand was for. Until Nat disarmed him and had him twisted up like a pretzel on the ground, not the fun way either.

Now even he joined in the training. Not as much as the boys but he did alright and Harry and Regulus both seemed to enjoy it so he was fine with it.

Harry heard the peak on the window and smiled.

"Hey, guys." He opened it and saw the three blue birds sitting. He poured so seeds on the ledge and they happily ate them. "Sometimes I think you're just a bunch of freeloaders."

One hopped up on his shoulder and chirped. 

Harry put the guy back in the window. "Glad to see you too." He rubbed the small bird's stomach.

He heard the knock on his door. "One minute." He dressed and opened it. "Oh hey, Sirius."

"Harry. I...I got a present for you." Sirius said.

"Didn't you already get me one?" Harry looked to the broom.

"This is a little more personal than that." Sirius motioned for the door. "It's a little bit of a trip back to Britain but that's where we need to go."

Harry shrugged and followed. Once they went threw the Sanctum door Sirius led them back towards the section that led to the London Sanctum.

"Okay." Sirius pulled out a rope. "Grab hold and don't open your eyes until I tell you to."

"A portkey? I hate those bloody things." Harry mumbled.

"So you've told me. Repeatedly. Just grab it and watch your language. Nats already on me about your brother." Sirius growled.

Harry chuckled but grabbed the rope. They were off. The ride wasn't something Harry liked. To uncomfortable. He preferred just opening a portal himself.

"We're here. But don't open yet." Sirius ordered.

"What if I just read your mind?"

"Don't ruin the surprise!" 

Harry wanted to know but didn't invade Sirius's mind. He felt Sirus move him to the side slightly.

"Okay. You can open them."

Harry did and found himself looking at a very large, well done, towering manor. The place was old but looked very impressive.

"Nice house. This your new place in Britain?" 

"Nope. It's yours." Sirius handed him a key.

"Mine?!"

Sirius knelt to look him in the eyes. "Harry this is your ancestor's house. Your grandfather wanted to have it restored but he never got a chance. James wanted to too but...This is your house. Your history."

Harry looked back at the place. "You restored it? For me?"

"Of course. Not that it was easy. Hard to plan something like this when the kid you're raising can read your mind."

"I only read it when I think you're about to prank me!"

"You read it all the time!"

"Because I always think you're going to prank me!!"

Both smiled at each other.

"Stephen is setting up a doorway to our home back in the states. We'll be here most of the time while you're at school. So you know we're close."

"Sirius. Thank you." Harry hugged his godfather. "You're the best Dogfather someone could ever have."

"I know." Sirius chuckled. "Come on let me show you the inside."

Harry used the key and the two entered. It was an older house but it had been very well re-done. It had been updated inside with all sorts of technology and furniture.

"This is awesome Sirius."

"You should thank someone else as well. Kreacher." Sirius called.

The old elf popped in. He looked a lot better than last time. He had transformed his old rag into a fitting suit and looked much less depressed.

"Kreacher was the one who furnished everything for me. He was a big help." 

"Hey, Kreacher. Thank you for all of this." Harry knelt next to him. "I appreciate it."

"Kreacher was...happy to help." It sounded weird coming from the old elf.

Sirius and Kreacher had reached a mutual understanding and had a more civil relationship.

"Has Mum seen this yet?"

"No. We agreed you should be the first."

Harry smiled again and then saw the portrait in the main room.

It was his parents. 

"Did you have that added?"

"Sure did." Sirius patted his shoulder. "I wish it was magical, like my mother's, (he hated saying that word about her) but it's from the day they married."

"I'm happy dad got to be here in some way."

"Me too. Harry." 

Neither tried to hide the tear in their eyes. 

"So...what room is mine?" Harry recollected himself.

"Well, the whole house is yours so you go chose."

"Really?" Harry had learned long ago not to say seriously.

"Go ahead." Sirius waved off.

And Harry took off running upstairs. He looked through the room after room. The alchemy lab was slightly outdated but still looked cool. The library had been restocked, most he had already read, but a few he hadn't so that was another stop for another day.

He finally stopped at, what he assumed, was the master bedroom. 

Inside was huge. The bed was twice the size of his own and looked fit for a king. It had its study and fireplace. One that had a very old portrait over it.

Harry studied the older painting for a few minutes. The name read Henry Potter.

"I figured you'd pick this one." Sirius chuckled from the doorway.

"Great grandad's old portrait," Harry spoke as he looked up.

"The last Potter to live in this house. Well until now." Sirius mused. "The portrait IS magical but for the life of me I can't get it to work right."

Harry looked at the painting and raised his hand. Red magic flowed off into the painting.

Sirius shouldn't be surprised but still looked a little startled when the painting came to life.

"What?!" Henry's portrait looked around. "My home. It's been restored!" He saw the child and man standing under him. "Who enters here?"

"You're great-grandson. Harry Potter." Harry smiled at him.

The portrait's face looked surprised then grew softy. "Finally a Potter comes home. I have been waiting too long to see my family again."

"You should thank him." Harry motioned to Sirius. "My godfather restored the house."

The old man looked at Sirius. "I thank you. What is your name sir?"

"Sirius. Sirius Black. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Black?!" That had the old man's eyes grow dark. "The last Black I had encountered died by my hands."

Sirius looked uneasy. But Harry looked upset.

"My godfather is not like that," Harry growled. "My father loved him like a brother and picked him to raise me. He risked his life to help protect me and I love him for it."

"Harry it's alright." Sirius tried.

"A Potter defending a Black." The portrait narrowed his eyes. "Times have changed. "You certainly raised the boy to stand up for what he believes. Well done." A slight smirk appeared on the old face. "Perhaps I shouldn't let my past transgressions alter my mind. Well, I painted mine." He mused.

Harry smiled at that.

"Thanks for not letting my last name define me." Sirius nodded.

"That's your responsibility and from my great-grandson's words, you are not like other Blacks. So I welcome you here as well. And Harry. Welcome home."

"Thank you." But Harry knew he already had a home. Anywhere his family was. That was home.

"We better be getting back to the cabin. Regulus will be bouncing on the walls to see the place."

"How did you get him to not follow along here?"

"Called Morgan," Sirius smirked. "They've been lost in a new game all day."

"He's worse than you are sometimes."

"You're both just jealous that I have the highest score in the house."

"Tell that to NoobMaster."

Sirius growled at that name.

"Everyone ready?" Sirius asked the next day.

"All accounted for,"  Natasha answered.

It didn't take long for the rest of the family to come to the new house. Sirius also had a room set for Wanda and Remus. 

Wanda was happy to have it. She wanted to be as close to Harry as she could. 

Natasha had her first trip on the Knight bus. She did not care for it. Regulus on the other hand.

"That was awesome!!" The boy hopped out. "Let's go again."

"Not right now." Sirius chuckled. "Your mum doesn't seem enthused."

"I've ridden alien gliders before. How was that worse?" She groaned. 

"It was like a small rollercoaster." Wanda exited. "But worse driving than Sirius."

"I've gotten better." The man argued.

"Didn't you try to confound your instructor to get you to pass?" Remus smirked.

"He did," Natasha said. "But someone stopped him."

"That someone was you." Harry laughed.

"Yeah, yeah. Let's go." Sirius motioned to the pub. The group walked in. Sirius and Remus knew it well and it felt like coming home.

Wanda and Natasha looked around uneasy. Both could tell this was more than it seemed.

In the back, Sirius hit the bricks. Literally.

"Welcome to Diagon Alley," Sirius told the group. As the wall folded in.

It was the first time he brought Natasha or either of the boys here. They mainly went to the magical side of New York. Less noticeable and fewer eyes.

"It's like back home, but more colorful." Regulus looked at all the shops.

"Yeah." Harry looked at one of the shops near the entrance. But he noticed that there were a lot of eyes looking in his direction.

"Sirius." A voice said behind them.

"Professor." Sirius saw his old head of house standing there with a young girl. "Good to see you outside of the board meeting."

"You as well. Remus, you look good." She smiled at the two.

"You too. Sorry, it's been so long since we spoke in person." Remus greeted her.

"Yes. I would have preferred more interaction with my old lions but I see you both have been busy. Who is this?" She asked about the other redheaded woman.

"Wanda Maximoff." She spoke. "A friend of Dr. Strange and others." She took Remus's hand.

It is a pleasure to meet you."  The professor looked down at the young boy front and center. Lily's eyes and James' face could only be. "Hello, Mr. Potter. You have grown so much since I saw you last."

"Hello, Professor." Harry greeted. "Sirius and Remus told me a lot about you. How most of your grey hairs came from them and my dad." He joked.

Her eyes narrowed but had a hint of a smile on her face. "Very true young man. I hope you don't add to them." She teased. "You look so much like your father. Except for your eyes, they are all Lily's." She then noticed the smaller boy. "And this must be Regulus."

"That's me unless something exploded, then no. Not me." He grinned.

"Oh, I can already tell you are your father's son." She sighed. Then she remembered her charge. "Forgive me Miss. Granger these are old students and their families."

"Hello." the girl, holding way too many books, said.

"A new addition to the community?" Sirius said with a smile. "Sirius Black this is Natasha and our boys. Harry and Regulus." He motioned to the group.

"Nice to meet you all. I'm Hermione Granger." She said politely. "Wait...I know you. You're the Black Widow!!"

"Want to scream that louder?" Natasha asked.

"Sorry!" Hermione blushed. "Just you're an Avenger! A hero! And you're Wanda Maximoff! I saw both of you on the telly!!"

Natasha smirked. "A First-Gen. No one else would even know us. It's nice to meet you, Miss. Granger."

"Hermione." The awestruck girl said. "Miss Maximoff are you a witch too?!"

"A different kind." 

McGonagall wasn't sure about that answer. Must be a sorcerer like Strange. "So you are the one who Sirius spoke about," McGonagall said to Natasha. "I was surprised he found someone who could handle his...nature."

"Handle? I mainly let him burn himself out. Works for the boys too." Natasha shrugged with a smile.

McGonagall smiled at that. "You have a very clever approach. I admire it."

Sirius didn't feel like these two becoming good friends would be a positive in his future and tried to get ahead of it. "Well, would you care to join us today Minerva?"

"I believe that would be acceptable. What do you say, Miss Granger?" 

"Yes! I mean it's fine by me professor."

"We were going to Ollivanders next." The Head of the Lions said.

"Lead the way professor."

Natasha and Wand both laughed inside as Hermione ask them a lot of questions during the short walk. 

The whole walk Harry could hear the thoughts of everyone. They were all talking about him.

This is not fun. 

I hear them too. Just focus on our group and tune them out. Like I showed you.

Harry breathed in and out and let the voices fade.

The large group entered and gathered inside the shop.

Ollivander sat up and saw all who were in his store. "Minerva." He greeted. "Another muggleborn?"

"First-Gen." She corrected. "Miss. Granger requires her wand."

"Of course." He then realized who all else was in his place. "Sirius Black 15 inch Reed with Dragon Heart String."

"You never forget do you." 

"Remus Lupin. 10¼", Cypress, Unicorn hair."

"Correct as usual," Remus said.

"Mr. Potter." Ollivander eyed the young boy. He didn't have glasses but the scar was obvious. " I have been waiting a long time to finally meet you and find out what wand will choose you."

"No need sir." Harry pulled out his wand. "Already got one." 

The wandmaker looked at the wand with awe. He had never seen one like that. It looked like it was made out of some sort of metal. "Where did you acquire that Mr. Potter? It's like nothing I have ever seen."

"Wandmaker in America. Well, he and Dr. Strange worked on it." 

"May I see it?" 

Harry looked hesitant. "It's probably better if you don't. My wand can be...fussy with others."

"Mr. Potter I have made wands before your grandparents were born. I know how to handle them. May I please see it?"

Harry shrugged and laid the wand on the table.

Ollivander picked it up and gave a startled yelp as the wand shocked him. He dropped it back to the table as he held his hand. "What is the name of Merlin?"

"Told you." Harry picked it back up.

"What is it made of?"

"Wood from an extinct tree. Wrapped in an indestructible metal."

"And the core?"

Harry smiled. "Hair of the God of Thunder."

Ollivander went full fish out of water face. The very thought of a hair of a god as a core...what he would have given to make that!!

"You have a wand with Thor's hair?!" Hermione asked stunned. 

"Yeah. He and Strange are friends. Well, sort of." He shrugged.

"What's he like?!" Hermione had to know. She saw him on the telly more than once.

"Big and nice. His hammer is awesome too."

"I will lift it one day!!" Regulus promised.

"Sure Reg." Harry patted his head.

The boy waved it off with a huff.

"Well, it seems to be in order." Ollivander finally regained his senses. "Take great care of that wand Mr. Potter. For a core that power to choose you. I believe we can expect great things from you. Just as the man who gave you that scar did great things. Terrible yes. But great."

"He was a pathetic coward." Natasha glared. "There was nothing great about him."

The old wandmaker looked at her in shock. A muggle saying such things!

"Mum right." Harry agreed. "Voldemort wasn't great. He was nothing and always will be."

"Do not say his name!"

"Ollivander you need to get past that." Sirius shook his head. "That name is nothing to be afraid of."

Hermione was still reeling from this boy. He had an Avenger as a parent and a wand with the hair of a god! She couldn't help but feel very inadequate compared to him.

She had heard of the dark lord since coming here but she never heard anyone talk about him like that. Her admiration for Natasha grew even more and she would have to read further about Harry's birth mother.

After Ollivander regained his composure he went to find her wand.

She tested several wands. Some casting she would rather forget about. Until one finally chose her.

"10¾" long, made of Vinewood, with a dragon heartstring core," Ollivander noted. "Very good."

She paid and put her new wand away.

When the group left Ollivander looked back at his collection in one box. Holding a very particular wand.

As they walked Harry saw a spot that seemed to call out to him. 

Eeylops Owl Emporium was very interesting and he loved birds.

Natasha saw him steer towards the shop and followed.

"Don't you have enough animal friends at home?" She teased.

"They aren't mine," Harry argued. "I like animals and they like me."

That was something they discovered when he was six and found the injured squirrel in the backyard. He carefully mended it with his magic until it was completely healthy. The nest of bluebirds without a mom. He took care of it until they hatched. Now they were visiting daily.

Harry had become the unofficial healer of the woods. 

Harry didn't mind. He liked it. Strange said his magics were affecting the area. Not in a bad way. The small creatures never came into the house and the boys had their watch over them in the woods. 

It helped a few times. Regulus got turned around once and a possum led him home. 

They went in and the owner greeted them.

"Welcome. First-year?" But he saw the faded scar on Harry's head. "Harry Potter?!"

"Yes, sir."

"Welcome! Please look around and let me know if you see anything you like."

Harry didn't know how to feel about all the attention he was getting. Usually, it was Nat who go it. Now he seemed to be a celebrity. He knew why of course but it still was odd. Back home it didn't happen.  Mainly because Sirius took great care to hide his head when they went out to the magical side. 

Here they knew Sirius and would assume Harry was with him so they didn't bother trying to hide it. He still didn't understand why people called him the hero. His mum was the one who deserved more credit.

Two hero mums. I have a lot to live up to. 

He looked over the owls. Locked in cages. That didn't sit right with him, but it wasn't his store. Then he saw a beautiful white owl. All the others were watching him but she was different. When her big eyes met his he knew.

"May I see her please?" He motioned to the cage.

The snow-white owl hopped onto his arm and Harry scratches her chest.

Natasha saw the look in Harry's eyes and knew what was coming. "We'll take her." She got ahead of the question.

"Thanks, mum." Harry took one of the treats and gave it to his new owl.

"You're on clean-up duty for her. Remember that." Natasha reminded him.

"Can I get one too?" Regulus asked.

"Are you sure you want an owl?" Sirius asked. "There's a list of animals you can pick."

"Can I bring a dog?!"

"Dogs aren't approved, I'm afraid," McGonagall spoke. "They tend to disagree with the cats and require more room. However smaller, exotic animals have been approved as long as they can be maintained."

"Exotic?"

"Some students have brought ferrets, turtles, snakes, (she didn't seem pleased with that option) and one managed to get a fennec fox approved."

"So if it's small I can bring it?" 

"As long as it gets approval, Mr. Black." 

"I'm going to find the coolest one to get." The boy promised.

"Based on my previous experience with your father, I can't claim to be excited as you are."

"Come now, professor." Sirius smiled. "I'm sure Regulus and I will find something both appropriate and equal mischievous before he starts." He put his hands on Regulus' shoulders.

McGonagall narrowed her eyes at the two. "Three years? Well, I will have to move my retirement up to two." 

Sirius and Regulus started laughing and Harry chuckled too.

Sirius paid for the owl, along with some other accessories, and the group went on their way.

"She very pretty." Hermione looked at the owl.

"Yes, she is." Harry smiled at the owl. "I think she knows it too."

The owl hooted as a sign that she did know.

Regulus saw the other pet shop and took off to begin the search for his own.

He rounded the corner and a loud crash was heard.

Sirius and Nat ran over to him.

"Regulus Alexei Black." Natasha's voice called out. 

Harry heard it. "Oh, full name. Not good."

"I slipped!" The boy now covered in soot came back around the corner.

"Maybe watch where you are going first." She wiped his face off.

"I wanted to see the other animals!"

"Did you find any in the cauldron? Or were you hoping to turn yourself into one by falling into a cauldron of the unknown?" 

Regulus looked down meekly.

Sirius was struggling not to laugh as he cast a cleaning charm on him. "Next time walk don't run." He smirked.

A cleaner boy nodded and followed the rest of the group.

They picked up all their supplies and had their wardrobe measurements done. 

The day was almost beginning to set when Sirius suggested they stop in his shop to see how everything was.

Alice Longbottom was behind the counter and smiled when they entered.

A shop manager was a far cry from Auror but it was much less dangerous. After she and Frank recovered she resigned and took the time to raise Neville. 

Frank remained on the force and was one of their most accomplished Aurors. 

When Sirius open the Black Emporium he needed someone he could trust to run it and Alice was perfect. 

"Alice," Sirius said. "How's the shop going?"

"It's running fine Sirius. I do have a list of items we are running low on and some special requests." She held out the paper.

"I'll take care of that." He put it in his jacket.

"Busy week Minerva. Another newcomer to Hogwarts." She noted the girl.

"Hello. I'm Hermione Granger." 

"Alice Longbottom."

"Harry!" Neville came out of the basement. "You didn't tell me you were coming today!"

"Sorry had a big surprise given to me and I forgot." Harry shook his hand.

Hermione thought their handshake was too over the top.

"This is Hermione." Harry introduced her. "Hermione meets my best mate Neville."

"Hello." Neville offered his hand.

"Nice to meet you." She shook it. 

"So a newblood?" 

"Newblood?"

"It's another name for First-Gen," Harry explained. "There's a lot since Muggle and Muggleborn have kind of faded."

"Dr. Strange started it. He hated those words." Neville smirked. "I'm technically a pureblood but I don't like going around saying it. Makes me feel like a royal tosser. Harry's a half-blood along with Regulus. So that would make you a newblood."

"That makes sense. But why did Dr. Strange want to change those words?"

"They were insulting. Both to No-Maj and First-Gens."

"No-Maj?" Hermione hadn't heard that before.

"Oh American for non-magical," Harry said. "Nev here picked it up there."

"You live in the States?"

"Yes and no," Harry said cryptically.

Hermione narrowed her brow and the vague answer but didn't press on.

"Miss. Granger after your first year you will be able to use shops like this to practice magic. Provided your parents are with you of course." McGonagall told her.

"Really?! But you told me about the Statute and the Trace."

"The trace doesn't work here and since it's in the middle of magical London you don't have to worry about the Statute," Sirius said. 

"That's amazing. Thank you for telling me!" She couldn't wait to show her parents what she will be able to do.

"Well, Miss. Granger, I believe it's time to get you back to your home."

"Right it's getting late. It was nice to meet you all." Hermione said to everyone.

"You too. See you at Hogwarts." Harry replied with a smile and a wave.

She seems nice.

McGonagall transfigured her clothes to be more modern and led the girl out after saying her goodbyes to the rest.

The morning of the big day had Harry finishing packing with Regulus.

"So when can I go through all your stuff when you're away?"

"You can come into my room but I won't be held responsible for any injuries or maiming you may get here," Harry warned.

Regulus rolled his eyes. "You don't keep anything that dangerous in here. I would have found it by now."

"So you have been sneaking in!" Harry growled.

Regulus realized he had just given himself away. The boy bolted but was stopped mid-run. Then he floated back to Harry who was holding out his hand.

"You cheat."

"If you could do this you would too." Harry dropped him. 

"I...You better visit every weekend." Regulus demanded. The boy didn't like how his brother was going to be somewhere else most of the time. 

Harry smiled and pulled him into a hug. "Got your mirror?"

"Duh!"

"I'll be here on Saturdays and you can call anytime." Harry patted him. "Just think in three years you'll be there too."

"I want to go now," Regulus grumbled.

"I would like that too but you can't. You have to help mum keep an eye on Sirius."

"That is a big job," Regulus smirked.

"Full time. You should ask for a bigger allowance." Harry chuckled.

The brothers shared a moment with another hug.

Sirius and Nat didn't interrupt them as Nat took a quick photo from the doorway.

Harry and Neville walked into the station with the rest of the group behind them. Harry had Hedwig tucked in her cage. Not for long though he promised.

Strange had decided to accompany them to the train and had changed out of his usual clothes. Instead opting for a less noticeable one. His cloak wasn't happy. 

At the entrance of Platform 9 3/4, Harry spotted a familiar face.

"Hey, Hermione." Harry greeted her.

"Hello again." She realized who was there. "I read so much since about you since last time. Your mom is the first First-Gen to receive the Order of Merlin and how you survived that night." She began to ramble.

"Yeah, mum was the real hero that night. I just got lucky." Harry rubbed the back of his head.

"Still have the Boy Who Lived title though." Neville reminded him.

"You know I hate that bloody title." Harry groaned.

"Harry." Natasha scorned him.

"Sorry, mum."

"Oh. These are my parents." Hermione suddenly remembered who was standing with her.

"Richard Granger." The man spoke and offered his hand. "My wife Jean."

"Sirius Black."

"Natasha." They shook hands.

"Yes, Hermione was very excited to meet you." Jean smiled at the blush on her daughter’s face. "I believe you have a fan."

"That's a welcome change." Nat winked at the girl.

All the adults introduced themselves but it was the lone man's name that got both their attention.

"Dr. Stephen Strange?" 

"One in the same." Strange nodded.

"I've read about you. World-class neurosurgeon but you sort of disappeared after your accident."

"Didn't disappear just found a new calling."

"So you're magical like Hermione?" Richard whispered.

"Not like her. Mine is different."

"Different is putting it lightly," Sirius smirked. "Stephen here turned our whole world on its head ten years back."

"Is that good or bad?" Richard asked.

"A lot of column a, a little of column b," Sirius answered.

"I would go with most A," Alice said. "He's been a big help the last decade in fixing some issues."

"It's true. My job has been easier since his involvement." Frank agreed.

"Not to ruin the meeting but the train is waiting," Strange said. "Mr. and Mrs. Granger, would you like to join Natasha and me on the other side of the barrier?"

"My parents can't come threw the barrier." Hermione reminded Strange.

"Correct you are. Luckily I have ways around that." Stephen smiled. "If you go on threw we'll be waiting on the other side."

Harry grabbed his trolly and calmly walked through. He heard someone say get a running start but that seemed stupid. Why run head first into a wall if you're nervous?

The rest of the group came in next. Sure enough, Stephen and the Grangers were on the other side.

"But...the rules said Non-magical can't come across." Hermione was confused.

"My magic doesn't follow such restrictions." He explained. "You three are probably the first non-magical to see this." 

Natasha did think the train was impressive. It did look well cared for.

The Grangers were pleasantly surprised they got to see it and spend a few more moments with their daughter. But Jean saw the wide birth the wizard and witches were giving them. Or Dr. Strange.

"Why does it look like you are being avoided, Dr. Strange?"

"Probably because I am." He waved his hand and changed into his regular attire. The Cloak is happy to be back to normal. "I've developed a reputation around here. Not everybody is a fan of my involvement."

The Grangers didn't press further. 

"I'll write every weekend," Hermione promised.

"We'll be waiting for the letter." Jean hugged her tight.

"Harry." Strange pulled him back. "Keep your eyes open and remember what you have been taught."

"I will Doc."

"Also remember to keep that talent under wraps. The less they know the better. For now anyway."

Harry nodded. He didn't like it but he understood. As long as Riddle didn't know about it he had a very big element of surprise on his side. He still planned to use it to visit home when he was sure he was alone.

Harry received a lot of goodbye hugs from everyone and a knowing look from Wanda. Both their eyes glowed red for a second.

Don't hesitate to call me if you need help.

I won't. Promise.

She gave him a smile and a hug next. 

"Would you like to sit with us?" Harry asked Hermione as he grabbed his luggage.

Hermione was a little surprised by that. "I...yes I would. Thank you."

The three loaded into the train.

The three sat in the compartment talking. Hermione talked about the history of Hogwarts and everything she read. 

It was slightly boring to the boys. They already read it but they didn't want to sound rude.

Harry could feel the anxiety of the girl. She was both excited and terrified. He wasn't trying to read her mind but it was going so fast. All the thoughts of a better school and finally making friends.

He never had that problem. He made friends everywhere. It was easy when you could tell what kind of person they were. 

Hermione was smart and clever but he could see her hero-worship with authority figures. And her complete dependence on books. 

She needs a real friend. Well, maybe Neville and I can be that.

He had been raised to give respect as long as it was given back. From kid or adult. He also knew that just because someone is in charge doesn't mean they are to be followed blindly.

Strange taught him that.

"So what's it like having an Avenger as a stepmother?" Hermione asked. 

"She's just mum to me." Harry shrugged. "Just like Dr. Strange is Doc and Tony is Tony."

"Tony Stark... do you spend a lot of time around him?" She asked. She didn't like his childish behavior but did admire his intelligence.

"Some. He's really funny and his technology is amazing. He still won't let me borrow a suit though."

"You asked to borrow Ironman's suit?!"

"Ask is a strong word. More like he found me trying to put one on once." Harry smirked.

"What?!" 

"It wasn't that bad. He laughed about it." Harry quickly defended himself. Good thing too. Those safety precautions could have been bad. For both of us.

A knocking on the door had a redhead peak in. "Hi. Can I join you? Everywhere else is full."

The three looked at each other and shrugged.

"Sure."

"Thanks." He came in. "I'm Ron. Ron Weasley." Ron said as he sat next to Neville. 

"Neville Longbottom."

"I'm Hermione Granger." 

"Harry Potter."

The last name got the boy's attention. "Really? Do you...do you have that scar?"

"Which one?" Harry knew but wanted to have some fun with it. "I got one on my elbow from mountain biking. Oh and one on my knee from a bad swing into a lake."

"No. The Scar. The one he gave you." Ron explained.

"Who?"

"You-Know-Who," Ron said.

"That's a weird name," Harry smirked.

How can he not know?! He's famous for it! Wait. Is he having me on?

Harry had to stop himself from laughing.

"Harry." Neville chuckled. "Come on. He's not going to say it."

"Fine." He pulled back his hair and showed the faded scar.

"Wicked!" Ron looked cheerful. But he thought it would be worse looking for some reason. "But you don't have glasses?"

"No." Harry shrugged. "Don't need them. I do have sunglasses." Harry put on his Stark glasses. "That more like it?"

"I guess I thought you would have real ones."

"Why?"

"Because some still want to see you," Neville explained. "Nobody could write anything about you but some still drew pictures. They all gave you glasses."

"Yeah, I heard about that. I think it's because my dad had them so they assumed I would."

Ron shrugged and pulled out a white rat from his pocket. " This is Roscuro."

"You keep that...in your pocket?" Hermione looked disgusted.

"He's great. Found him in the garden when he was a baby." Ron pet his rat. "Want to see me turn him yellow?"

"Oh magic? Go on with it." Hermione sat up straighter.

Ron cast the spell but nothing happened.

"Bloody Fred or George." He growled.

"Not very good is it?" Hermione said dryly.

"Your brothers?" Ron nodded "I think they were having you on. It certainly didn't sound like a real spell." Harry said. "Can I try?"

Ron shrugged and handed Roscuro to Harry.

"Flavum." Harry smiled as the rat was now yellow. "He looks a little sickly like this." He cast the counter and it went back to white. "Here you are."

Ron took his rat back. "Black teach you that?"

"Sirius had taught me a lot. Well him and Remus."

"I heard all Blacks were followers of You-Know-Who," Ron said.

"Not Sirius. He's the black sheep of the family." Harry smirked. That was a long-standing joke at home.

"Mum says to be careful around any Black family. You never know when they might turn on you." Ron repeated.

Harry glared slightly. "Your mum is entitled to her opinion but I think I know MY family pretty well. Sirius is the best."

The door opened again a blond boy with two others stood there.

The blonde looked at the four until his eyes landed on the scar.

"So Harry Potter finally came back," Draco spoke.

"Blond hair and an overinflated sense of self-worth. Must be a Malfoy." Neville mocked. 

"Longbottom. If I want my shoes shined I'll acknowledge you. I'm here for Potter."

"Hello, dear cousin. Time to be an annoying tosser already?" Harry stood and moved closer to the boy. That's right I know all about you and daddy.

Halfblood thinks he's important. "You would be better to learn to respect your betters, Potter."

"Oh, I do. Which is why I have no respect for you or your coward, one-armed, Death Eater, of a father. Now leave." Harry was up close to the blonde.

"Don't talk down to me you..." Draco pulled his wand.

He didn't get to finish as Harry grabbed his hand and spun him around putting him in an arm bar.

"Back off. Too much pressure and it gets worse." Harry warned the two others. "Listen well Draco. I don't care about you the least. Don't insult my friends or family and I won't bother you. But if you do.." He squeezed making Draco scream. "One arm and you're useless, just like dear old dad. Some better you are."

He pushed Draco out the door and slammed it in their faces.

"That...was...wicked!" Ron said.

"How did you do that?" Hermione asked.

"Something my mum taught me."

"He's still bitter Sirius cast him and his family out isn't he?" Neville asked.

"What gave you that impression?" Harry smiled.

"Wait are you cousins with Malfoy?!" Ron suddenly had the words catch up to him.

"We share some blood, a few generations back."

"So do you, Ron," Neville said. "Your grandmother was a Black."

"No, she wasn't!"

"Have you looked at your family tree?" Neville asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Almost all the older families have some relation. That the problem with those who put blood before anything else." Harry said.

Before Ron could reply Hermione spoke over him.

"We need to change into our robes." Hermione motioned to the window.

The group saw the castle in the distance.

Harry took it in. It was an amazing sight. But he could feel this was the beginning of something very big.