AUTHOR NOTE

Thank you again for all the continued love and support I receive for this story. Really love how many of you like it.

Some parts of the text in this chapter is taken from HP&tPS, HP&tHBP, 'The Avengers' (2012) film and the 'Avengers: Endgame' (2019) film

I continued for slightly longer with this chapter as I more than likely will not do another update before my thesis submission in September and Interview in October-November.


CHAPTER 9


"[...] you think you can explain all this in a letter? These people will never understand him! He'll be famous — a legend [...]" - Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone [1]


Taking the last steps of the ladder to finally hit the gravel floor, Harry turned and looked back up. Dr Selvig was just behind him, though slower in coming down.

Unfortunately for the muggle scientist, baby-Fawkes wouldn't be able to magically transport them anywhere, let alone back inside Mr Stark's tower, anytime soon. Instead, Harry had held the baby phoenix carefully in the palm of his hands, to place him (at the Hat's encouragement) in the nest that was his hair, when it had come time to go back down. Covered and protected by the Hat, the small chick, barely bigger than a snitch, only let out the occasional chirp, as they slowly descended from the roof.

'Fawkes won't be able to sing for some time,' the Hat had explained. 'He will only do small calls for food and of curiosity. Nor will he be able to use most of his magical powers. He is back to being a fledging in all sense of the word. But there will soon be a time where he will sing once more — and that is hope enough for now Harry.'

Possibly out of impatience with the slow-going scientist, Agent Barton fastened a rope to the tower's roof. He swiftly glided down the side of the build (far more gracefully than Dr Selvig was currently going down the ladder), to land near Harry, barely making a mark on the gravel.

Mr Barton barely had a chance to look out from his landing when the first of the rest of the group —of the Avengers Harry quickly corrected himself, joined them:

Thor landed with a muffled boom, leaving a rather large indent on the stone floor. Compared to everyone else, Thor looked fine for the most part. Even his cape was still mainly the same bold-red it had been at the start of the battle. There wasn't any scratches visible, as far as Harry could tell.

The super jet-plane, on the other hand, looked like the rest of them were feeling: worse for wear, but somehow with still some life in it. As it landed on the designated tarmac on the lower balcony, Harry noted one of its wings had several huge marks as well as an alien spear still imbedded in it. As for the other: Harry wasn't quite sure how it hadn't yet fallen off. — The doors on both sides opened, for Agent Romanoff to quickly jump out. She was followed at a more sedated pace by Captain Steve and Mr Stark (his suit definitely looked like it had seen better days).

Mr Barton quickly met with Ms Romanoff, both agents hugging and exchanged a few words. Captain Steve easily climbed the steps leading to them. There was concern clear in his eyes, looking at both Dr Selvig and Harry.

Before he could say anything to Harry though, Mr Stark, helmet removed, moved past him to give Harry a huge grin, "Great job out there kid. A very death-defying super-boy, Gandalf mumbo-jumbo quality, stunt. Though, no spinning the Earth in the opposite direction, okay?"

Harry tried to follow all the man was saying as he was slowly guided inside the apartments (though mainly failing), "-And watch out for any Belrocks out there. Not that I'm sure you wouldn't be able to handle it, seeing how you shish kebab-ed that alien beast. —Hey! Have you had shawarma before? Do they have shawarma on Krypton?"

Most the words passing over his head, Harry focused on the (first) question and shook his head, "umm, no."

'Shawarma' definitely did not seem like something Uncle Vernon or Aunt Petunia would have had in their home; far too foreign sounding. As for Hogwarts... Harry was pretty sure he had never had any 'shawarma' there either. He definitely had never heard of it before.

'It is indeed foreign,' confirmed the Hat. 'It is a dish originating from the Sublime Ottoman State[2] and not prominent in Wizarding Britannia. It is a meat dish prepared with layers of the meat stacked and pierced in the middle by a spit - most commonly presented vertically - to be grilled through the length of the day. It was one of the several eastern dishes that became all the rage during the era of wixen Grand Tours. Headmaster Black, for one, was very fond of Levantine cuisine. But the dish, much like Grand Tours, went out of fashion, especially as Herr Grindelwald started invading Europe.'

"You up for trying some Earth food?"

Harry smiled back up at the robot-suited man, "Why not."

There was a pause, Harry's eyes narrowing as he took in the suit, now that he was close enough to properly look at it...

'There is definitely nothing like it in Wizarding Britannia.'

Yeah, Harry agreed. It was far from wizards' preference for long robes and pointed hats, a picture of Professor Dumbledore in his flowing deep purple robes with different constellations glistening on it coming to mind.

The Hat gave a chuckle, as Harry stared back up at Mr Stark and asked, "Is your suit really made of iron?"

The grin widened. "Actually it's mostly made of carbon-fiber and ceramic: Earth tech —technology, that is. But you gotta agree, 'Iron Man' has a much better ring to it — 'Iron Man'," his arms going wide showing the whole of himself off. "We'll have to find you a cool superhero name as well, before the press decides it for you. — One better than 'Captain America', that's for sure."

Harry blinked, Captain America?

He turned and looked in the same direction as Mr Stark, to where Captain Steve stood. Harry's face scrunched as the 'Boy-Who-Lived' moniker came to mind. 'Warlock Britain' would probably have been much worse...

"First though..." Mr Stark gave a pointed nod towards the inside, to step through one of the broken window.

Still tied up, Loki was now awake — and had shifted to the sofa, with the minimal amount of movement the bindings allowed him.

Thor was already glowering down at him, but it seemed that, at least for now, any possible confrontation hadn't yet evolved from a staring contest. Not that Loki appeared all that bothered by the huge thunder god's heavy stare. His own face looked an odd mix of amused and tired more than anything else. — Though it transformed quickly enough, with the staring match breaking as Harry stepped through the glass behind Mr Stark.

Completely dismissing his 'brother', Loki's green eyes sharpened onto Harry. While Harry might have tensed some, Dr Selvig visibly flinched, having followed in after Harry. Even Captain Steve, not a step behind them, tensed, his metal shield-Frisbee raising, readying for an attack.

Loki gave a sharp smile at the action, for it to ease into a Lockhart-worthy grin (after he had been knocked off his feet by Snape during their duel) as he turned and gave his attention to Mr Stark, "If it's all the same to you, I'll have that drink now."

"All right — Good one," Mr Stark replied with a dry laugh.

Loki's smile only faltered some when Ms Romanoff stepped towards him. The god of mischief was understandably wary, eyes fixed on the agent — or really the blade in her hand. But instead of stabbing him, she went for the rope; the magically conjured rope from Harry's binding spell. Needless to say, the blade went through the rope, not affecting it in the least, as if cutting air.

Only then did humour and bravado return to the god's eyes.

As for the agent, she pulled her arm back to look at Harry, her eyebrow raised. Harry felt his face redden. "Mr Slytherin, if you wouldn't mind?"

Mr Stark chortled, "Not that we don't all appreciate Reindeer Games being tussled up like a Thanksgiving turkey — but really, he's not the sort of guy you would let surf on your couch long term."

Harry released the bindings on the god's legs. He was hesitant to do the same to the bindings holding his arms and upper body—

THUMP!

Harry turned, along with most, to see Mr Hulk land on the balcony (leaving a far larger indent than Thor had), for him to—

CRASH!

— go through the only window that had still been standing.

"Seriously!" Dismissing both Loki and the rest of the space, Mr Stark glared at the green giant.

The Hat gave a chuckle, while Harry's lips might have twitched. — Still. Even if worn out, Harry couldn't help but step closer to the broken window, to point his wand at it and call out - "Reparo!"

He smiled, pleased with the result. Clear thick glass, like it had looked before Mr Hulk had smashed through it. Plus it was a spell Harry actually knew for himself, from earlier in the school year. There had been no need for the Hat having to whisper this spell in his ear. - Professor McGonagall had warned them it would more than likely be on their exams (along with Hermione repeating the warning several times, before looking over the theory once more, and memorise the wand movement and enunciation perfectly, as if she hadn't already done so several times before).

Everyone's gaze snapped to him.

Hulk grunted, Harry unsure what this meant, but thankfully the green giant didn't go smash the window once more. Both Captain Steve and Agent Barton blinked, while Thor beamed, as if he had done the incantation himself. Loki also smiled, though the gleam in his eye was as far from that of the other Norse god. The one who barely reacted was Agent Romanoff. Yet, like Loki, there was a certain look in her eye Harry wasn't sure about. It reminded him of how Mr Malfoy had looked at him in Flourish and Bolts — assessing him.

As for Mr Stark, he blinked at both Harry and the repaired glass a couple times, to move cautiously to the window and give it a tentative tap on the pane... along with a second, harder punch—

"Dibs!" Swerving, to give Harry his full attention, Mr Stark definitely had a slightly manic look in his eyes as he asked, "How would you like to live with me full time Kah El?"

Harry's stomach gave a jolt. He barely noticed Ms Romanoff roll her eyes. Or, Agent Barton frowning, while Captain Steve reproached Mr Stark, "Tony, you can't call dibs on a child!"

"Do you even like kids?" Agent Barton added.

"I like Harry. What's not to like: travel size, goes head on against gods, saved the city with his space-bird, not to mention the magical tree branch, cape and Arthur-worthy sword? Besides, I have more than the resources to take care of him. —And, I'm the only one here in a strong, stable relationship, with a gorgeous red-head (sorry Romanoff). I mean, no offence but: pretty sure Cap' hasn't been on a date since the 1940's, you two are super-spies married to your jobs, Point Break is apparently trying the very long distance thing with an Earth-girl who he hasn't seen in over a year, and Banner... well, not sure being on the run was conducive to going for a dinner and a movie."

"And you liking Harry has nothing to do with the number of tests you want to do to said 'magical tree branch, cape and Arthur-worthy sword'?" Agent Romanoff retorted dryly.

Mr Stark was quick to retaliate with a scoff, "Please, I got my own toys. Besides, would he really be better off with the super-secret spy organisation? I'm sure SHIELD just wants to keep him by the goodness of their own hearts. They'll probably hide him in a top secret facility. Hel-heck, they might even put him in the same one they've been hiding all the Krees and Skrulls we've heard so much about. — Or better yet, why not turn him into another child-spy like you Red. — Or another experiment, like our good old captain here?" nodding to Captain Steve. "I don't know about you, but I'm not ready to let Harry anywhere near SHIELD while they go on about 'Phase 2'."

Mr Hulk gave a grunt of agreement.

As for Captain Steve, he frowned pensively, his eyes going between Mr Stark, Harry and Ms Romanoff.

Thor stepped forward, "Aye —I know not what this 'dibs' is, but Young Harrý will be coming to Asgard with Loki and I."

There, Mr Stark definitely rolled his eyes, "Yeah, let's send him to the people who actively hunted his kind down and killed them — great plan."

Actively what?

"That was a millennia from now. On Asgard, he will be taught to harness his powers and use them for good. There is no better sorceress and teacher than my mother, Dróttning[3] Frigga."

"Yeah, sure — remind me again who exactly taught Loki his powers before he decided to go all super megalomaniac villain (complete with the creepy smile and questionable wardrobe choices) and try to conquer Earth?"

The remark earned him a glare from both gods. But before either could reply, there was a ding, for the lift door to start opening.

Mr Barton grumbled, "Oh sh-right, forgot about the STRIKE team." The agent moved forward, as the rest watched the lift door slide completely into the wall. Several men stepped out, joining them in the living room.

Harry wondered if this STRIKE team was part of SHIELD — 'most probably', whispered the Hat — as Agent Barton greeted the first man, the one in a business suit, who could fit in just as well in one of Uncle Vernon's business dinners as Agent Culson had - "Agent Sitwell."

But before 'Agent Sitwell' could reply though, Thor interjected, "where is Kevin?" having clearly recognised the man.

The agent blinked, "K-Kevin?"

"Aye," for Thor to give a nod towards Harry, "Young Harrý's serpent?"

Harry ears warmed. He had completely forgotten about the snake he had summoned on the muggle ship.

"They're probably testing it for all types of magic stuff - taking its blood and venom," snarked Mr Stark. Clearly his opinion of SHIELD hadn't improved since the arguments in the flying-ship.

"Python don't have venom," corrected Ms Romanoff. For the Hat to remark that she didn't comment on to the possible tests being done to the snake.

Mr Stark turned his attention to Harry, "You better watch out kid; they're probably gonna try the same with you - and Loki. Test your spit, blood -"

"They are WHAT?!" Thor face turned outraged, his eyes going from the new team —to spin to face Harry, as if to ensure he was still there, his hammer lifting in his hand, "None shall take Young Harrý or Loki's blood!"

Loki definitely looked as disturbed by the idea.

'Blood Magic is one of the most ancient forms of Magic, Harry. As such, it is one that has been revised and developed many times through the centuries; sometimes to detrimental effect. So drastic have been certain consequences of the practice, nearly all forms of Blood Magic have been deemed by the ICW too dangerous. In this, I would very much be line with Thor Odinson. A wizard with you blood could do horrible things to you if he has the right knowledge... Your own foray with polyjuice potion underlines that any part of you can be used by another wizard, to potentially dire consequences.'

Harry's stomach dropped. He definitely did not like the thought of someone else pretending to be him, even for an hour. Merlin, the only reason Harry had agreed to use polyjuice was to help find out who was behind the attacks.

The Hat hummed. 'I would also warn you of the side effects to your own body for taking such a potion at such a young age. - The polyjuice potion is very strictly regulated not only because of its difficult and time consuming brew, but because of its altering properties, similar to that of most human transfiguration. The animagus ritual - the ability to transform into an animal - is the most prominent example: slowly, through time, the mage takes on a number of the traits of their chosen form. For one sill growing and on the cusp of puberty, the polyjuice potion could have had - and could still be having - consequences on your body.'

If possible, his stomach sunk further. Harry was already quite short compared to his roommates. He really hoped the polyjuice wouldn't be stopping him from growing altogether.

'Indeed.'

At least on Asgard taking someone's blood appeared to be as much of a taboo act as in the wizarding world, given how Thor was still accusing the STRIKE team — along with Ms Romanoff and Mr Barton, of planning to possibly create mindless armies to do their bidding, all while Loki (and the rest) watched on in serious apprehension.

'At the very least, I would also recommend perhaps developing a 'security question' of sorts. It would help reduce the danger of accidentally speaking with an imposter. -Though not to worry, you have a few years. Just as it isn't recommended to taking any physically altering potions at your age; most mages also know the dangers of transforming into a youth who has not yet gone through puberty.'[4]

It took several moments, mainly from Captain Steve and Mr Barton promising that SHIELD would not be taking Harry's — or Loki's, blood for Thor to calm some, and for the SHIELD agents to state why they were actually there: "We're here to retrieve the spectre..."

The statement wasn't without the agent, along with the rest of the team, taking a second longer look round the room, expectantly... for several eyes to land and stay on either Loki or Harry.

Which was when Mr Barton informed Agent Sitwell, "The sceptre was destroyed."

Harry gaze snapped to the agent in worry, wondering if he would mention Fawkes having eaten its core stone. (That, and remembering that Fawkes was a fledging in every sense of the word, and couldn't as easily escape from possible danger.) Surely they wouldn't cut Fawkes up to retrieve it, would they?

'I very much doubt your companions would let it come to that. For one, I am certain that Mr Odinson would definitely not allow any harm to come to Fawkes or yourself, Harry.'

Thankfully, Mr Barton only added, "The... flame...fire-chanting magic song... ritual melted the staff..."

Much like Agent Romanoff, most of the 'Strike Team' didn't visibly react — at least not much. The suit-wearing agent though blinked, to frown, "destroyed? — M-melted? But - but..." Looking slightly lost, his eyes went round the room in a veined hope that the staff would suddenly appear in front of him. — Had he not seen the great big spiralling beam of fire?

Yet the next moment, Agent Sitwell quickly regained some of his composure, and with a cough, his face became serious once more, "—Well, SHIELD will of course need to be informed of all evidence that was destroyed during the attack. You will need to be debriefed, Agent Barton — as well as the rest of your... team. The same goes for Dr Selvig and—"

He just as suddenly stopped, as his eyes had landed on Loki, realising something else. Tensing, he demanded, "What of the Tesseract?"

— "The Tesseract will be returning to Asgard," Thor stepped forward, for Agent Sitwell to take several steps back.

The difference in height, stature, and outfit was rather comical. It reminded Harry of when he had first met Hagrid, and Uncle Vernon had actually tried to intimidate the giant. Still, just like Uncle Vernon, Agent Sitwell seemed to find have some courage, as he cleared his throat and challenged, "I-it's been SHIELD property for over 70 years..."

Pushing his luck, he then added, "... And we'll be needing to question the prisoner... along with the two unknowns who entered the portal before him." The statement finished with a nod to Harry, before giving the room another sweep with his gaze, most likely in search for Fawkes. (How did he expect to question the phoenix?)

At the statement, several, including Thor and - more worryingly - Mr Hulk stepped forward. Agents Barton and Romanoff, along with Captain Steve and Mr Stark had also quickly moved forward, or even physically placed themselves between the god or giant and the agent. Clearly Harry hadn't been the only one to notice Thor minutely raising his hammer once more or Mr Hulk's deep throat growling.

Agent Barton spoke up, "I'm sure Agent Sitwell is only interested in following protocol."

Agent Sitwell quickly nodded, while another of the STRIKE team agents added, "Of course, just following protocol." Giving Thor a firm nod, he smiled down at Harry, "In this case, I'm sure it's more of a formality. We are after all very grateful for Mr Slytherin helping save not only New York, but also the life of Agent Coulson —along with many others on the Helicarrier. Still, it would be remiss not to follow standard procedure, for Earth's security's sake."

There was a tense moment, for Mr Stark to slap his hands together and exclaim, "Come on, we just saved the city! I, for one, am really looking forward to some shawarma! Why don't we worry about protocol and wanting to interrogate twelve year olds - who helped save the world - after that, 'k?"

Captain Steve said something about them needing to also help with 'coordinating search and rescue' as several gave Mr Stark, Thor or Harry lingering looks. Thankfully though, the agent soon gave a nod to Mr Stark, to give an 'of course' with another smile. He then proceeded to moving back to the lifts, guiding the rest of the team including Agent Sitwell, with him.

Keeping an eye on Agent Sitwell, the agent's gaze now focused on the case in Mr Stark's hand, Harry slowly followed behind everyone else.

He hadn't needed to worry though. As Agent Barton and Captain Steve started talking with the STRIKE Team, Thor and Mr Stark somehow moved to place themselves between the various agents and Harry.

Close behind Harry, Mr Hulk also made to follow—

"Whoa!" called out Thor.

Turning, Harry quickly understood the god's exclamation. While not full, it was clear that the lift didn't have enough room left for the green giant. Nor was Harry certain it would be able to hold Mr Hulk's weight.

Mr Stark quickly joined the protest, "Whoa, whoa. Hey! Buddy. What do you think? Maximum occupancy has been reached."

Thor gave a firm nod, to suggest, "Take the stairs."

Mr Hulk's scowl hardened. Anger visibly growing, Harry watched his huge hand form into a fist and drawing his arm back, while Mr Stark quickly raised his own hands, "Stop-stop—"—

Harry quickly jumped back out of the lift, just before the doors closed, making them re-open.

— And have all eyes on him.

Thankfully the surprise of his action seemed to have stopped Mr Hulk's arm mid-motion... along with the full lift in front of them.

"Oh umm, if the lift is full, I can wait with Mr Hulk for the next one."

Truthfully, Harry wasn't sure he wanted to go down with the STRIKE team. While the Avengers seemed fine, he was unsure about the rest of SHIELD.

Agent Romanoff slapped her hand to the side of the lift — stopping the doors from closing for the second time, "Wonderful idea; I'll wait with the Hulk and Harry."

Mr Stark's eyes narrowed on Ms Romanoff as he also stepped —or really, more sauntered, out. Only for Thor to cry out in protest, "I am not leaving Young Harrý alone with the green giant!"

There was another moment of various outcries; especially as Thor was sceptical in leaving Loki with SHIELD. He seemed both worried if the team of agents would be able to handle the other god's trickery, even if still bound, as well as looking somewhat hesitant and concerned for Loki. Ultimately, Doctor Selvig, along with Agent Barton and Captain Steve, going down with Loki and the STRIKE Team seemed to calm the god some (that and a couple of the Avengers pointed out that they didn't necessarily want to be babysitting Loki during their celebratory meal).

It was definitely calmer in the flat now, with a lot less people.

Still, Harry was starting to get hungry and well... Is there a way of helping Mr Hulk turn back into Dr Banner? Harry asked the Hat. Even with less people in the lift, the doctor would definitely take a lot less space or weight than the giant.

Fawkes gave a small chirp, from Harry's hair.

Thor looked down to give Harry a confused look, all while the Hat exclaimed, 'Ah! While I don't have an actual calming draught in my brow, Fawkes is right to remind me that I do have a bag of Professor Dumbledore's lemon drops. As it so happens, in addition to apparently be 'very tasty' according to Albus, they are coated with a very mild dose of calming draught. While far from the effectiveness of one of Professor Snape's potions, they do aid with the odd troubled student sent to the Headmaster's office (and possibly Albus himself, in particular when dealing with the Ministry).'

Thinking on it, Harry removed the Hat to the curious looks and exclamations of the others as they noticed the baby phoenix in Harry's hair.

"The Hábrók survived! Of course he did!" — "Wah! Well, I did think your hair looked like a bird's nest. But that didn't mean you needed to actually make a nest out of it."

Harry did his best to ignore the cries, along with Ms Romanoff small smile, and Mr Hulk's huge grin. As for Fawkes, clearly comfortable, Harry left the baby phoenix where he was. Instead, he focused on the Hat, looking inside it, to find the expected bag of sweets ready for him to grab.

He just as quickly put the Hat back on, thanking it. He then turned to Mr Hulk, who by now was staring attentively at Harry and the bag of lemon drops (along with the rest of the group).

And yet, just as quickly as he had place the Hat back on his head that baby Fawkes gave a rather loud chirp —to flap his fluffy wings against Harry's hair.

'I believe Fawkes would like a sweet.' — A quick, sharp chirp confirmed the remark.

Harry quickly lowered the Hat once more, to gently take the fledging in his hand...

He obviously recognised the bag of sweats. Lowered, the baby phoenix's eyes quickly went to Harry's other hand, to start chirping again and looking ready to try jumping the distance. Quickly taking one out, Harry noted the lemon drop was nearly as big as the phoenix face. Yet, much like the glowing yellow stone, that didn't stop the baby bird to pounce on it and taking it in his beak in one go. It did make Harry wonder if the phoenix had thought the stone a lemon drop.

Fawkes gave a grateful chirp — to nip at his fingers, before puffing his yellow fluff and sink into Harry's hand and close his eyes.

The phoenix snoozing, Harry turned back to look up at Mr Hulk — and the rest of the room staring at Fawkes and Harry (completely ignoring the lift ding, indicating it's return). Slightly unsure how to proceed (ignoring the stares), Harry decided to just open the bag, and present it to the green giant, "Would you like a lemon drop Mr Hulk?"

Mr Hulk had been staring at the bird in confusion, as if trying to figure out one of Snape's more complicated potion instructions. Yet at the question, his stare turned to Harry, turning more wary.

Certain a grunt wasn't far from his lips, Harry quickly pulled out a lemon drop and plopped it in his own mouth. —Wow! The Hat was right: they were really nice.

"Lemon drop, was it?"

Harry turned to find Mr Stark (and the others) eyeing the bag with interest.

"Uh yes, lemon drops — they're sweets. You're welcome to have some as well," presenting the bag to the whole group.

Thor was stepped forward — only to be out manoeuvred by Mr Hulk. The giant actually growled at the god, to push his whole fist into the bag, before Harry had time to cry out in warning. But the bag did not tare. Instead it widened with the large fist, easily fitting it, for Mr Hulk to pull out a (very large) hand full of lemon drops — and stuff them all in his mouth in one go, all while continuing to glare at Thor.

Not to be out done, the god was next, taking a large handful as well, and soon exclaimed his own appreciation, "These are most pleasing!"

"Didn't take you for Willy Wonka kid."

Mr Stark also took one, but rather than eat it like the rest of the group (though Harry was pretty sure Ms Romanoff had slipped hers in her suit rather than eat it), it was still in his hand. He held to the light, between two fingers, looking at it with great intensity. "What else you got in your hat; a whole of candy factory? Don't know about the others, but I wouldn't say no to a Resse's cup."

He finally plopped the sweet in his mouth after a few more moments of scrutiny (and smelling) — to give a hum in approval.

Which was when Mr Hulk started to... shrink — albeit slowly. The giant stopped mid-chew to look down at his hands as they slowly but visibly shrunk... — for his hands to quickly go to his trousers.

Thor made some remark about the beast becoming man, while Harry gave Dr Banner a tentative smile.

Ms Romanoff also smiled at the scientist, "Good to have you back doctor." With Mr Stark close behind her, "Welcome back, doc. —Let's go find you some pants," giving him a small pat on the shoulder, to guide him down the corridor. (Privately, Harry thought he might need more than just a pair of pants — would probably want some trousers and a shirt as well.)

They were (finally) in the lift (Dr Banner fully dressed, and having also taken one of Harry's lemons drops) when a voice spoke out from the ceiling, "Sir, it seems Secretary Pierce has arrived at the tower, after having been informed with regards to the sceptre and the Tesseract... along with Loki."

Harry was not the only one to look up, in search of the speakers, wondering if this Pierce lady was Director Fury's secretary.[5] Thor was quick to exclaim, "I did not know you had spirits on this realm!"

"Not a spirit; that's Jarvis," Mr. Stark corrected him, even while clearly distracted by the information relayed. With Mr Stark preoccupied (and possibly letting out a couple American curses Harry didn't understand but was sure would have Mrs Weasley pursing her lips), Harry turned to Thor and tried to explain, "It's not a spirit but a mug—electronic speaker. It's a device to help communicate between different places. There is another person somewhere else speaking through a machine, for the voice to carry to the speakers." Unfortunately, as the speakers weren't visible, he couldn't point to them.

Thor beamed, "Most ingenious!"

The god was clearly eager to ask more questions (all while silently reminding Harry of Mr Weasley), however they had finally reached the ground floor.

Instead of a secretary greeting them though, it was a whole bunch of men wearing suits —no women whatsoever... And none looking particularly happy. - Then again the city had just been attacked. Truthfully, the whole atrium looked rather busy. At least, Harry was pleased to note, none of the STRIKE team were in sight. —Nor were Agent Barton or Doctor Selvig. He did notice Captain Steve off by the doors, speaking with two people wearing uniforms, complete with helmets.

"Gentlemen, how may I help you, in my tower?" Mr Stark was definitely not as relaxed as when he had taken the lemon drops. It was with a tight smile that he greeted them, "—The letters outside might now say 'TAR' but I can assure you, I still own it."

The man in the middle stepped forward, "I was wondering where you were all going?"

"To lunch and then Asgard," Thor answered promptly, stepping in line with Mr Stark. "... I'm sorry, you are?" obviously wondering the same thing as Harry.

It Mr Stark who answered: "Alexander Pierce. He's the man, above the folks, behind Nick Fury." Harry did not miss the note of warning in his voice.

Indeed, not looking the least bit amused, 'Alexander Pierce' added, "My friends call me Mr. Secretary. I'm gonna have to ask you to turn that case over to me," looking Mr Stark's suitcase. "That's been SHIELD property for over 70 years."

Harry blinked. He was far from Uncle Vernon's secretary, who he liked to yell on the phone to (nearly as much as he liked to yell at Harry). It seemed some titles had different meanings here.

Harry must have missed something, as Mr Stark was now talking about who had the higher authority, while Mr Pierce was going about 'the prisoner' (most likely Loki).

Thor, clearly not happy with whatever Mr Pierce had just said, quickly retorted, his voice rising, "Loki will be answering to Óðinn himself."

"Oh, he's gonna answer to us. —Odin can have what's left..."

Harry was pretty certain Mr Pierce did not realise who 'Odin' was. The situation reminded him of when Uncle Vernon had dared talk about (insult) Professor Dumbledore to Hagrid's face. Going by the look on Thor's face, the god's reaction was close to being that of Hagrid's.

Fearing the worse (and remembering Dr Banner shifting into Mr Hulk, the scientist still standing next to him) Harry spoke up, "Couldn't Agent Romanoff hold on to the case — at least for the moment? She's from SHIELD, no?" His voice becoming hesitant at the end, as Mr Pierce's -well, piercing stare, along with the others, fell on him.

Eyes fully focused on Harry, Mr Pierce's jaw tightened, "Agent Romanoff is indeed from SHIELD, Mr... Slytherin was it? However, given that her past is far from being the most... —"

"Kid's right though."

Mr Stark stepped forward, blocking most of Mr Pierce's view of Harry, "Sure Ms Triple-agent - who helped save this city - might have a questionable past. She does have the whole Femme Fatale look down to a pat. But what about Legolas here?" — giving a nod to Agent Barton, who had at some point joined them, along with Captain Steve. Indeed, the nod was followed by another to the captain, "— and Star Spangles? Now surely you don't have any objections for America's finest war hero — the guy who punched Hitler — to hold on to the case? Surely they're enough to ensure its security, while we calmly discuss who actually has the higher power. —Well authority, 'cos power: let's be honest here, I feel thunder-cat here has us all beat."

The discussion finished quickly after that (with Mr Pierce promising a meeting very soon).

It was only once they moved through the doors that Captain Steve, suitcase in hand, protested that he hadn't actually punched Hitler, only someone called 'Johann Schmidt' (Harry guessed he had also been a Nazi).

Thor was louder in his protest that he was not feline.


Ron, Harry decided, would love shawarma. Along with Hedwig; she always went for Harry's bacon at breakfast.

On the other hand, baby-Fawkes clearly preferred the few critters scuttling about the place; given the number of times he tried to escape Thor's hand to go chase them.

They had ordered, ate (Harry's own belly ready to burst), to which most had found their fill. Bar Thor and Captain Steve that is. Both had ordered another round of several items on the menu, including fries that Thor occasionally offered to the baby phoenix. Neither Harry nor the Hat were sure that was all that good for the baby bird, but then again, if Professor Dumbledore was happy to give Fawkes lemon-drop sweets... 'As long as he does not eat too many,' was the Hat's prerogative.

Mr Stark, on the other hand, had definitely stopped eating. His sliced meat was completely gone, while his remaining fries were completely forgotten. Instead he had been staring at Harry for a good couple minutes, "You know... those words you've been saying all while pointing your wand at things, 'reparo', 'emancipare' - they're rather latin-y sounding, no?" He turned, to look at Ms Romanoff, "helped me out Red: mini-Gandalf's speaking Latin?"

The agent gaze went from her own fries, to Harry, to Stark, taking a fry before speaking, "reparo: Latin for to fix or mend — 'to repair'. Emancipare sounds similar to the Latin ēmancipō, which literally means 'I set free'."

Stark gave a nod, his eyes swerving back to Harry, "Which begs the question: You some kind of Roman god, like Point Break here's distant cousin? — You have a super-powered family somewhere, who are the origin to Roman Mythology? Though, that wouldn't explain the 'bind rune' on your forehead..." his brows creasing into a frown.

Thor readily protested, "Harrý is a seidr, not a Roman."

A what?

"Yeah, but by your own words, you Norse gods can be seidrs, along with 50 different shades of elves."

Dr Banner gave a chocked sound next to him. Mr Barton's lip twitched. Ms Romanoff's eyes might have shown with humour, but Captain Steve and Thor looked as befuddled as Harry felt. It is most likely something of the modern times of this Earth.

"And if I remember correctly, our Latin-speaking friend here mentioned something about a basilisk, which has more a Greek-Roman monster vibe to it than Norse. — Unless there you guys have a big giant snake on your home planet as well?"

"Well there's Jörmungandr," Harry supplied, all while Thor shook his head in the negative, completed with a 'Nay'.

Both frowned at the other, "Jörmungandr?" — "No?"

— "What's a jormongunder?" the question echoed by Captain Steve.

"Umm... yeah, a Jörmungandr: great big snake that winds around Earth-Midgard." Given Thor's confused look Harry decided not to add that it had supposedly been fathered by Loki.

"Maybe it's a metaphor?" Mr Barton suggested, straightening himself in his own chair. "Like not an actual snake, but a metaphorical one — like Hydra?" giving a nod to Captain Steve for some reason.

"Hydra?" Unsurprisingly Thor was as confused - if not more so - than Harry.

Harry who was unsure how a hydra was supposed to be a metaphor for the World Serpent, "Hydra, the seven-headed sea serpent?"

Thor looked impressed by the description, "With so many heads, how do you vanquish such a beast? If you go for one head the six others will be at the ready to retaliate."

'At its heart' supplied the Hat.

Harry nodded, "Not to mention, if you cut a head off two grow in its place. The trick is to go for its heart."

"Umm, well our Hydra was a bit different," Mr Stark stated, cutting through the discussion before Thor could ask more questions. "Thankfully we had Cap-sicle. He took care of them, between punching Hitler and driving a plane into an iceberg Titanic-style. —But we were talking about huge snakes of the non-metaphorical kind. Are we to understand that - in addition to basilisks - you've gone toe-to-toe with hydras of the serpent variety?"

"Oh no," Harry shook his head. "Hydras were thought to be extinct. For centuries they were hunted for their fangs, bones, scales... loads of their parts. Only, a few reappeared near the Black Sea last summer, and are now on the endangered protected list."

"And basilisks?" Ms Romanoff asked.

"Umm, I don't think there are many around... There was a thousand year old one in secret chambers under —under where I live.

Several blinked. "There was a thousand year old snake - one that kills you with its eyes - in the basement?" Mr Barton repeated faintly.

"And we were worried about 'gators in the sewers," Mr Stark added.

"I closed my eyes —and Fawkes did most of the work," Harry quickly replied. "He pierced the basilisk's eyes. It was only then that I was able to use the sword to stab it through the roof of its mouth — through its head... like the levanthian." Given their earlier talk of blood (not to mention with the SHIELD agents), Harry decided not to mention the whole basilisk's fang piercing through his arm or Fawkes crying on him.

Thor looked down at both Fawkes and Harry full of pride, "A truly magnificent creature. You'll have to tell us more of your and Fawkes' battles Harrý! I slayed a bilgesnipe during my first scouting mission; not nearly as impressive."

"Have you had many battles, Harry?" the question coming from Agent Barton, his gaze going between Harry and Ms Romanoff. The others definitely seemed interested in hearing about Harry's possible battles.

Harry's cheeks warmed, "Only a couple, though the basilisk was the first one I had Fawkes by my side."

Mr Stark eyed Fawkes, "Speaking of which... Is it just me, or does the baby firebird seem more and more to be also from legend: a phoenix?"

Harry shifted, "well..."

Thor frowned in confusion, to insist, "Fawkes is a Hábrók."

"He can be both," corrected Ms Romanoff. "There are legends that appear through different cultures. They vary in name, but are similar in nature..."

Mr Stark nodded, "visiting Earth before, becoming stuff of legends —like superhuman beings who control the weather with magical hammers." His eyes going once more to Harry he added, "Which begs the question: where do you come from 'Young Harry'?"

Harry froze, looking back at Mr Stark.

The rest of the room also looked to be holding their breaths, waiting for Harry's reply.

'Perhaps some level of trust would be appropriate here. After all you did all fight together. There is also their respective skills and resources. They do seem to be in an optimum position to aid us in returning back to our world. Though perhaps not in such an open setting —and a test,' the Hat quickly added.

Trusting the Hat... and the Avengers, Harry gave a small nod, "Umm... I'll —I can tell you some, but not here."

Lunch soon wrapped up after that, with Mr Stark insisting on paying, while the owner insisted it was on the house. (A compromise of sorts was met, where the meal was on the house, but Mr Stark left a very large tip, going by the amount of American notes he left at the table.)

As they left the shawarma place, a thought came back to Harry all while thinking of what he would say... He turned to Thor, "Do the names Hel[6], Fenrir, Narfi or Nari mean anything to you?"

"Helheim?" Evidently not, going by the god's confused face. "—Are they beings of great import?"

The Hat hummed in agreement, 'there are definite disparities between our two universes.'


By the time they returned to the tower, most of the lobby had been cleared out, with focus being on search and rescue outside.

Stark's elevator might not be as fast as the space-bird's 'fire-teleportation', but the slower travel was better in this case. The pause before whatever the kid was about to tell them was needed. Clint also wasn't ready to lose his meal so soon after having eaten it, thanks.

Plus, the bright orange-red puff ball was rather cute.

Not that Clint wasn't gonna do everything in his power (and SHIELD's power) to make sure no pics of the puff-ball made it out in the general public. If word of an actual phoenix got out, they would have a riot on their hands. (That, and Lila and Cooper would definitely want one for themselves. Cooper only last week had pleaded once more about getting a dog.)

Hell, Clint hadn't informed Sitwell of the rock-eating baby-bird. —Something in his gut told him not to speak up in front of the STRIKE team about it.

Just as his gut trusted Fury (and Nat, but that was a given) with the information during their brief call. (Just as Laura and Clint had trusted him with their relationship and kids.) Unsurprisingly, Fury hadn't been happy at the news of the stone swallowing. (Then again when was Fury ever really happy?) The cursing could have been more PG though (Cooper and Lila thankfully hadn't learnt such language yet), and the 'not again' groan had been confusing; not that Clint wanted to know the story behind it.

At least when Clint informed Fury of Thor's worry of Harry, bird and even snake, the director had been more than receptive to getting the 'Motherf-ing snake off (his) plane'. While the lab-nerds had taken samples of the snake's scales and spit (python's didn't have any venom as Nat had stated). Thankfully none had the brilliant idea of killing the kid's snake. Apparently a large number of SHIELD agents - Sitwell included (in whose arms Thor had first dumped said snake) - had a minor, or in some cases, major snake-phobia. It was to the point that Fury had sounded ready to create a mandatory reptile training course for the whole of the agency.

Still, Fury was clearly not a snake person himself. And while unconfirmed, a bird person was also unlikely. Clint had of course heard the rumours that Fury had owned a cat at one point, but he'd never tried to get confirmation one way or the other.

Of course Stark was right on the money. From the call, Clint had read between the lines and knew that the snake wasn't the only thing being looked at. For one, Phil's blood and other fluids were also being tested. The same would have been true of the white cloth the kid had wrapped him in, if not for the fact that it had apparently dissolved in front of the medical team's eyes as soon as they had started cutting into it to get to Coulson's wound. That, and during their call, it was clear things were happening in the background —some currently happening on the Helicarrier. Clint knew several in SHIELD (and not just in SHIELD) were against the Avengers Program.

Stark had his money and supersuits — and genius mind. Cap was a goddam war hero, with super-serum in his veins. The doc was just as super-smart as Stark, with super-temper issues added on. Thor came from another planet, one with magic, and where fairytales were real.

As for Nat, well Nat was the Black Widow (red ledger and all).

And Clint... well he might not have any sort of super-something, but he wasn't bragging when stating he was SHIELD's best marksman, not to mention proficient in a number of other weapons. Plus he'd like to think he knew more about the real world, and having better instincts than most of those pencil-pushers, agents looking for glory or prove they are the next big hotshot. Besides, he was one of the few to go head-to-head with the Black Widow, and live to tell the tale.

And yet, while they had all done their part, it still didn't sit well that it had come down to a pre-teen and his magic bird to save the city.

That, and SHIELD having been so easily dismantled. Hell, Barton and half a dozen mind-controlled mercenaries had been able to de-route SHIELD's main base of operations for several hours.

Still, the fire ritual had also... well, purified.

Clint felt lighter. His head clearer. The pounding and soft hum that had continued even after Nat had knocked him out was now completely gone.

Of course, it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. For one, the kid's magic definitely had an adverse reaction to anything tech. Worse than Thor's magic. The comms had completely switched off during the height of the fire-swirl, to take time to get back online. Stark's suit had been completely unresponsive for several moments —several far too long moments, which had had the Hulk jump in and catch the guy. Even after the battle, most of his suit had apparently refused to reboot, forcing him to hitch a ride on the Quinjet. Understandably, what had worried Stark all the more was the control systems in his Tower had also completely shut off, and had also taken time to reboot after the battle. The same could be said of the Quinjet - though not as badly. The modifications done after the New Mexico incident had meant Nat had been able to right the jet before any possible crash-landing in a neighbouring skyscraper.

They arrived with a soft ding, for the doors to open.

The penthouse's looked worse in the 'cold light of day' (though still a whole lot better than outside).

Clearly Stark felt the same. He turned to Harry, hope in his eyes, "hey, any chance you could use your powers for good Kal El, and Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo more of your magic in here?"

Cheeks turning pink, the kid raised his wand to point at the other windows. — One after the other, with each call, the windows returned to their previous state. Even the huge indent done where the Hulk had apparently smashed Loki several times into the floor (something Clint might be definitely very pleased by) was fixed for the most part.

There was a small pause, for Harry to then cry out 'scrou-something' several times, for a certain cleanness to fill the space — bar the scorch marks on the walls and fireplace made by the sceptre.

It seemed that "what has been magically destroyed can't be fixed," explained Harry. "Or at least they cannot be completely fixed, depending on the complexity of the destruction. Curses are the worse, as their intent is to destroy..." His eyes going to Thor and his hammer, the kid hesitantly added, "I suppose anything hit directly by the staff's magic, by the Chitauri's weapons... or Thor's hammer, had the intent to destroy."

"Hey—don't go trying to sell yourself short Harry. All I'm seeing is reasons to keep you fulltime," Stark replied, starting to pour everyone drinks, while most sunk into the couch and chairs. "But—" the billionaire added, obviously ready for Thor's protest, "first we need to check if ET has his own home to get to?..."

And so it started.

Or, actually it started with the kid asking them to try on his hat... and make a vow?

Stark gave a nod of approval, his face serious, "Knights of the Round Table shindig - I like it." (Clint noted Thor give the definitely more oval coffee table a confused frown.)

The doc focused more on the first part, a clear note of disbelief in his tone that Clint wasn't far from echoing, "Your hat? You want us to try on your hat?"

"Is it like a magic trick? —Actually, can you pull a rabbit out of the hat?"

"Why would Harrý need to retrieve a rabbit out of his hat?"

Clint wasn't the only one to bite back a smile. Even the kid got the reference, as he explained, "Mug-On Earth, there are 'magicians' who do tricks that look like they are doing actual magic. One of the more known tricks is pulling a white rabbit out of a tall black hat. But actually the rabbit has been there the whole time, hidden under a fake bottom, hiding it."

Thor looked at the rest of the group slowly, like they were all crazy, "That is... most amusing."

"If done well, it can look really impressive," Harry defended.

Banner was apparently just as curious as Clint, as he asked if the trick was possible using real magic.

"Yes... But with real magic, pulling a white rabbit out of a hat is very advanced. Either you summon a rabbit from somewhere else — similar to the snake I called to fight Loki. Another option is transforming something that is already in your hat into a rabbit. That's hard since rabbits are living creatures. And the hardest, but most impressive way to go about it: you actually create one out of thin air, but very few people can actually do that. Besides the rabbit doesn't stay for long; it depends on the witch or wizard's abilities."

Trying on the hat seemed to be simple enough, but first the vow.

Thor - of course - was quick to agree with the vow (with Rogers not far behind him), "Those marked with Baldr are pure of spirit and all that is just! Nor would the Hábrók have attached himself to Harrý, if he was untrue."

From the little Clint actually remembered of the magical bastard, he was certain Loki would definitely not have been as quick to agree —if to agree at all. At least not before hearing what this 'magical vow' entailed.

To be fair, once Harry did explain what it did entail, it didn't seem all that bad, especially as the vow went both ways.

Hell, and that was even before getting into the whole Harry possibly being the last of his kind after they had been hunted down throughout space. Clint's teen-self would never forgive him if he was part of the 'evil government of suits and nerds' who let E.T. die in the name of science and research, rather than help him go back to his home planet.

Shady government types weren't just a thing in the movies. The 'greater good' was one of those statements that you sometimes had to take a step back about. Nat was a fine example of the loose morality, or downright amoral 'ends justify the means' certain organisations used as an excuse far too often.

Given Clint's own background - even before SHIELD - he more than got the kid's wariness... Each and everyone here had some very justifiable trust issues. Clint had read the report on Obadiah Stane. General Ross was actively hunting down Dr Banner. (Fury had warned Clint and Nat - who in turn had warned Banner and Stark - that the General had taken a direct flight to New York as soon as the skies had been cleared for travel.)

As for Thor: Loki. Need he say more?

So as it was, feeling slightly ridiculous (all while reminding him of the fire ritual on the roof), Clint added his hand to the group's...

... All piled on top of each other, Harry added his last, to place the baby phoenix on top of their linked hands, along with the kid's wand and Thor's hammer.

Prior to the hand pile, for the sake of symbolism, the captain had readily suggested placing his shield under where all the different hands would be. Stark (possibly not to be outdone) had then gone and gotten his previous 'heart' from his bedroom and to add it on top of the shield. Not one to be left out, Clint had added one of his arrows... for Nat to add her widow's grip, and Banner (not having many options) had added the jeans the Hulk had worn during the battle.

Harry spoke:

"Will you, Thor son of Odin, to the best of your ability, keep secret all mentioned going forward, and not to share them without the consent of the prolocutor?"

"I will," vowed Thor.

A thin tongue of brilliant white flame issued from the space-bird, to wound its way around their hands like a hot wire.

"Will you, Anthony Stark, to the best of your ability, keep secret all mentioned going forward, and not to share them without the consent of the prolocutor?"

With Stark's promise, a second tongue of flame - red this time - shot out and interlinked with the first, making a fine, glowing chain.

Each following had a red thin flame...

For Harry's own vow, "I promise to be truthful, with no aim to deceive or obscure information intentionally, but in the hope to be provided aide..." a second thin white flame twisted itself with the others, to bind them thickly around their clasped hands.

There was a moment of silence. All watched, even the chic remained perfectly still upon their clasped hands...

There was a bright glow... for the lines to sink into the skin of their wrists. To fully disappear...

... They slowly untangled their hands...

... Clint unclasping and re-clasping his own into a fist...

For Thor to take the offered Hat and put it on his head (and look rather ridiculous in doing so). - After a couple oments he was followed by Rogers —a weary Banner —

Nat raised him a challenging eyebrow. Clint to let out a sigh, and put on the headwear (feeling all the more ridiculous having seen it on the others before him)... Somehow, after several moments had passed, he knew when to remove the hat and give it to Nat -

"Think we've found your Halloween costume for this year Red: sexy-witch," Stark remarked, which earned him a sharp smile as he took the offered hat.

"No offence kid - but you don't have any lice do you?"

For him to (not all that unsurprising, really) not put the hat on straight away...

Stark looked at the Hat thoroughly... to look inside... —and to put his hand within.

The kid gave a small yelp. Rogers looked ready to tell Stark off — along with Thor, who probably considered this a break of the vow, as well as earning protests from the rest of the group. — For him to pull out a bag of candy; most likely the 'lemon drops' Nat had told him about.

Stark plopped one in his mouth, to offer one to the phoenix —and throw another to an un-expecting Doctor Banner, who caught it, but only just.

Thor was next to be thrown one, looking like a sad puppy from missing out on the treats...

Only once everyone had gotten one (Clint definitely liked them), did Stark focus on the hat once more. And yet, instead of putting it on, he once more looked inside. — The kid's cloak from before the battle came out, but before Stark could take a proper look at it, the kid quickly grabbed it, with Stark making no protest, other than a clear look of interest.

Instead, he focused once more on the hat. — Hell, by now the whole room was just as intrigued by what would possibly be pulled out next. Harry looked intrigued.

Following the cloak, were the kid's previous clothes from when he had first arrived (they had definitely seen better days). Clint had already taken note of their state and the crest featuring the four animals (lion, a snake, some kind of raptor and a badger?) back at Mojave. Stark only made a nod of approval at the red-gold combo as he looked it over...

The clothes were followed by a chess set.

Stark raised an eyebrow, "you play chess?" — Only for Rogers to give a small yelp, as the chess pieces started moving.

Harry stifled a laugh, "Magical chess."

Next to Mr Stark, Thor gave the white king a gentle poke — for one of the white knights to make several hops and place himself in front of his queen, his tiny arms rising in the air. A fight seemed to be breaking out between some of the white pieces and red ones. Harry quickly picked the reds, "There's not much different to mu—non-magical chess, but the pieces move by themselves. You need to make sure you don't mix them up in their compartments or things can get pretty violent before the game even begins."

"Magical chess," — Stark's eyes weren't the only ones fixed on the pieces, looking ready to possibly steal them away. The next moment though, his attention snapped back to the Hat.

A couple books were pulled out: one about knitting patterns, the other on bowling, as far as Clint could tell.

Clearly as enthused by the reading material as Clint was, Stark's attention quickly passed to the next item being pulled out: a bottle of... —he looked to the label, reading it out loud, "Ogden's Old Fire—whisky."

Stark blinked, to stared back at the kid with a raised eyebrow, "right, confiscating this. – It is definitely not something for your young space-age."

There were a couple more knick-knacks, several adult sized clothes (long robes being the primary choice), another bottle of something called 'Veritaserum'[7] which Harry didn't know what it was for... and nothing else.

"Where's the sword?" Stark asked, looking rather cheated.

The kid's cheeks and ears pinked. "Uh, it only comes when needed — and can only be called by those who show bravery and courage... and have magic," he explained, as if apologising.

Stark gave an exaggerated pout, "Shame." — To bounce back up in his seat the next moment.

"So Kah-El... is this where you tell us about Krypton?"

Harry took the Hat back, placing the items back inside (even the whisky), to give a heavy sigh (it had been a long day, to be fair), "Well, my name is Harry Potter."

Clint blinked, Harry Potter? Definitely didn't sound very alien-y. Going by the blank faces from the rest of them, Clint wasn't the only one to think so.

For some reason, a small smile crept up on the kid's face then, "and I'm a wizard."

— "And I am the Sorting Hat."


NOTES

[1] I was honestly really tempted to go for with the quote, but decided not to 'spoil' the lemon drop 'reveal: "We have much to be thankful for. Would you care for a lemon drop?" - Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone

[2] With the political + religious aspects being normally different (very different) from the muggle counterparts, it could be said that the magical equivalent to the Ottoman Empire still exists / it continued as it was even after the installation of the Statute of Secrecy.

[3] 'Dróttning': 'Queen' in Old Norse - going to assume it's the term is the same on Aagard

[4] It always disturbed me thinking too much about Crabbe and Goyle turning into first year not to mention girls, during Sixth Year.

[5] Small note: Harry is not being intentionally sexist. He grew up in the 1980's where it is more than likely that Uncle Vernon had a female secretary. Most secretaries in typical office jobs in the UK in the 1980's would be women. Pretty sure the Harry Potter website mentions Aunt Petunia having a secretarial position before marrying Vernon.

[6] Harry saying Hel (and not Hela) is on purpose; from my (basic, fair) research, she is called 'Hel' in Norse Mythology not, with Hel meaning 'hidden one'. I might be wrong but feel that the 'a' was added for the comic books, to make her name sound different from Hell and more feminine...?

[7] I had been very tempted for the potion to be the Felix Felicis potion, but feel like the Hat would have definitely suggested Harry take some during the battle...