Albus Dumbledore sat in his office at Hogwarts reading the latest letters from various magical schools from around the world confirming their participation in what would be seen as the largest international educational competition in history. Forty-eight magical schools would be sending their best and brightest to compete in various magical, and a few non magical events over the course of the year. Dumbledore was excited for one school's participation more than any others. The International Wizarding Academy was a school that was very exclusive. Only the best and brightest were allowed admission. Their students were the most talented and skilled witches and wizards in the entire world. Having his students compete against them would be a wonderful chance for his students to be pushed hard and make them work harder. Those that didn't would receive a very humbling lesson.

He had sent letters out to all his top students to inform them of the competition and what events and subjects would be covered. He was most looking forward to a few of the nonmagical events the most, as it would hopefully get the British Ministry of Magic to realize how behind they were in the times. He figured the dance competition would be interesting, as he loved the variety of dance styles that the world had to offer. He was intrigued by the non-magical combat tournament. He knew this meant teenagers engaging in fighting without wands and instead using their fists and legs. He was not very supportive of allowing students to engage in such barbaric acts within his school, but he did see an opportunity to recruit some strong allies in the war against the Dark Lord Voldemort. The other event he was truly interested in was fencing. It was a wonderful, civilized sport.

As he finished marking down his latest confirmation, he felt the gargoyle guarding his office begin to move. He stood up and walked over to the door to greet his lunch guest.

"Sirius! It has been too long," said Dumbledore with glee in his voice and his trade mark twinkle in his eye.

"That it has. That it has. How long has it been? Seven years?"

"I would guess that long. Please sit," Dumbledore said to his guest and former student. The man that stood before him was not the same young man he had taught. Dumbledore knew that his better style and the way he carried himself was all due to Sirius' bride. "How is the family?"

"Doing great, thank you. Marisol send her regards. She would have joined me but keeping the boys in line has not been easy lately."

"Not any trouble I hope."

"No, just having two teenage boys who are constantly in a competition with each other usually leads to at least one explosion a week, many injuries, and an incredibly stressed out wife. We really do love when they go back to school. They are like if me and James had grown up together since we were babies."

"That is a rather terrifying idea. You two are part of the reason that Minerva started going grey."

"Yeah. How do you think she will react to my boys being here this next year?"

"When I told her that it was a possibility, I do believe her reaction was something along the lines of debating retirement."

"In all truthfulness, the reason this summer has been so chaotic is because we have stepped up their training. With everything going on, we are not taking any risks. We know that as soon as word gets out, attacks will happen, and my boys will defend each other with little restraint."

"That is what concerns me Sirius. How much restraint do they have? I can not have them dueling everyone that insults them or making hostilities worse."

"I'm talking about open conflict. If someone is looking to cause them severe harm, then they will not hold back. If kids give them shit about their lineage, then they will live up to their heritage as sons of the marauders. I can promise you that Minerva will have many more grey hairs by the end of the year. Those boys are just as good, if not better than we ever were, however; they will not start a conflict or harass anyone. They are rather laid back most of the time."

"Good. Very good. Besides training, how have things been," asked Dumbledore?

"Well, we recently discovered an old marriage contract. That was a fun conversation. At least the boy got lucky."

"How so?"

"His betrothed is Daphne Greengrass."

"Then he is a lucky young man. Ms. Greengrass is rather intelligent, and although she seems to push most people away, she is very kind and loyal to her friends."

"We've talked to her and her family over the summer. The two are keeping it a secret until after he gets here. I think her statement was something about shock and awe value to the reveal."

"I hope not too over the top."

"You hold on to that hope Albus," said Sirius with a grin. "Oh, and while I am here, I have been asked by Dean Fredericks to ask you about hosting weekly gatherings for the students."

"What kind of gatherings," asked Dumbledore, not sure what Sirius was thinking?

"Weekly gatherings where the competitors and other students can mingle and forge international friendships and allies. We would cover the cost of food and entertainment would be provided by us as well. We have music covered since a few of our students actually formed a band. They cover all types of music. We just need a place big enough to host this."

"We are still trying to finish the temporary living quarters for all of our guests. I am not sure if we have a place that can provide what you are wanting, as much as it sounds like a wonderful idea. If I find a spot big enough, what all would you need?"

"A place to serve food and drinks and a stage. That's it. We will cover the rest."

"I will keep an eye out. If you are going to be around for a little while, maybe you could look for such a place."

"I may just take a stroll around today. It has been so long since I have walked the grounds."

"Sirius," came a voice from the doorway to the Headmaster's office. Sirius turned around and grinned.

"Minnie," yelled Sirius in excitement! He ran over and gave her a massive hug, lifting the older transfiguration mistress in the air.

"It is wonderful to see you too," said Minerva McGonagall as Sirius put her down. "I take it that if you are here, that means they are coming."

"If by they, you mean the boys, then yes. But I also had some official business to take care of. Thank you for meeting me Headmaster Dumbledore. If I find the spot we discussed, I will send my elf with it's location."

"Thank you, Professor Black."

Minerva's jaw dropped as she looked over at her former troublemaking student.

"Professor BlacK? What are you a professor of?"

"Well, I was so inspired during my time here, that when I left, I got my mastery in Transfiguration. I had a great teacher in school," said Sirius as he placed his hands on her shoulders. "You really were, and if I understand correctly, still are an amazing teacher."

Albus watched as one of his oldest friends and colleagues teared up and smiled.

"Well, I must be off, but before I go, who do you have working the entertainment for this event?"

"A couple of former students who would love to meet you," replied Dumbledore with what could only be seen as a sinister smile. "The Weasley twins idolized the Marauders."

"NO! NO! Albus, are you insane? Introducing those two to him might mean the death of me," yelled Minerva.

"I promise I won't interact with them too much. I do have to be a responsible professor," said Sirius, once again placing his hands on her shoulders. "But wait until they meet my boys! Those two are chips off the old blocks!"

With that, Sirius ran out of the Headmaster's office, laughing as he heard Minerva ranting louder than he had ever heard before.

"This is going to be a fun year," thought Sirius.