Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or the Avengers. Unfortunately.
Chapter 19: Mischief Almost Managed
Several weeks had passed since Sirius had been cleared of all charges. Harry had remained on Earth since Sirius's trial to get to know him better, and because of the looming winter holidays. This would be Harry's first Christmas with Tony. It wouldn't just be Tony either. Harry had an entire pseudo family now with Pepper, Sirius, and the other Avengers. Harry wanted to savor every moment of it. Of course it would only be Tony, Pepper, Sirius, and Harry for Christmas this year. The other Avengers already had other plans for their holiday celebrations. Harry was a little disappointed he wouldn't get the chance to see them over the holiday but he wouldn't mind a quieter holiday for the first one he spent with his dad. Any type of celebration was more than he had ever experienced before. He'd loved the ones spent at Hogwarts but this would be different. He was actually going to be spending the holiday with his dad.
He was also going to miss Frigga and Loki. Harry had admitted to Tony about Loki teaching him. Understandably he threw a fit. Only the reassurance from Frigga that Loki wasn't going to harm him kept Tony from putting a stop to his visits to Asgard entirely. Harry likewise reassured Tony that Loki wouldn't harm him, and Tony reluctantly accepted his judgment. Harry was happy to have Tony's acceptance and belief in him.
Loki was different when it was just the two of them. He tried to be standoffishness, and push him away but Harry could see through his defenses. Harry knew because he recognized his own worries in Loki's eyes. Loki was just as desperate as Harry for acceptance. Loki had gone through the same shock that Harry had. His parents weren't who they thought they were, and Harry understood how shattering that could be. Loki had acted a bit extreme but now that he had calmed down a bit Harry was certain that he could be redeemed. The only ones who seemed to share his sentiments about Loki were Thor and Frigga. Harry was resolved to figure out a way to help Loki as soon as the holidays were over, and he returned to spending his weeks in Asgard.
For now Harry was enjoying his time with Tony and Sirius. The first week Sirius had moved in had been rough. Sirius still held a bit of a grudge against Tony, and Tony was worried that Sirius was going to try and replace him in Harry's affection. They were understandably a little hostile to one another. The only reason the two of them even attempted to build a semi-friendship was because of Harry. But after reaching some sort of agreement they now got along, and even argued like an old married couple. Harry personally enjoyed watching their little squabbles about little things like Tony's remodeling of the Malibu mansion. Sirius had a strong opinion about colors and such, and always picked contrary colors to Tony, partly just to annoy him. To which Tony would argue about it being his house.
Sirius had finally gotten his hands on his new wand. The first thing he did was give Tony donkey ears and a tail. It backfired a bit because Tony was thrilled at being transfigured, and spent the rest of the day pestering Sirius to give him wings and gills so that he could study the new structure of his DNA. With Sirius in the house he was able to provide Harry with a little bit of the wizarding education that Harry was missing after being removed from Hogwarts. But only the bare minimum. Sirius insisted that they spend more time on pranks and having a good time than studying. Harry was only too happy to go along with it.
Harry and Sirius got along really well. To Harry it was like they had always known one another. It made him wonder if he subconsciously remembered Sirius and trusted him from when he was a baby. They tossed the quaffle back and forth, went to the beach, and practiced spells. Harry also spent a lot of time with Tony in his workshop. Tony had a whole bunch of new suit ideas, and was spending a great chunk of his time refining and building them. He was working on implantations that would go beneath his skin so that he could call his suit whenever he wanted to.
Harry worried Tony was working too much. He had tried to talk to him about it but he was always quick to distract him with a different project. His dad was very good at distractions. He was even capable of distracting Pepper. Of course Pepper was really busy with Stark Industries. Since the attack on New York everyone wanted to be involved with all of the leaps into technology that Tony was building. Pepper was swamped with all sorts of different companies contacting her for a chance at getting funding or just working with Stark Industries. Although, Happy was really enjoying his new job as the head of security. Pepper thought he'd gone mad with power the way he constantly insisted that everyone wear a badge in the Stark buildings.
He'd even made Harry wear one. Pepper had dragged him to the office to get him out of the house. She'd tried to get Tony to come too but he'd waved her off mumbling something about testing his new product.
"This will be good for you, Harry. One day you might be in charge of Stark Industries," Pepper coaxed, smiling brightly as she forcibly tugged him into the building.
"I don't know if I'm cut out for that sort of thing, Pepper. I'm like dad. I don't think I could put up with the business side of things," Harry hedged, wishing he was back at the mansion with Sirius trying to make all the toilet seats in the house unexpectedly belt out AC/DC songs when Tony used them.
"You should at least be familiar with it, and have the experience of being in the office, at least once," Pepper pleaded.
Harry relented. "All right, but just today."
Pepper smiled at him. Pepper wanted to share something with him just like Tony wanted to share his engineering, and Sirius wanted to share his magic.
Harry got the full tour of the building. This was their main base of operations, and was the center of Stark Industries; everything had to come through here before being developed further. Harry spent the day following Pepper around as she went about her daily tasks. She was easily one of the most efficient and organized people he had ever met. Pepper interacted with people firmly but politely. Harry figured he could learn a lot from social interactions.
While Harry enjoyed lunch with Happy and Pepper she mentioned it was her and Tony's date night. Harry and Happy shared a panicked look. Harry was pretty sure that Tony had forgotten it was date night. While Happy distracted Pepper, Harry quickly called Tony to correct that mistake.
"Hi, dad," Harry had called him from Happy's StarkPad so he could see Tony and his workshop behind him.
"Hey, kiddo. Having a nice time with Pepper?" Tony teased.
"It's alright. I'll tell you about it when I get home. Right now though, I'm just calling to remind you that it's date night," Harry informed him.
"Oh, sh-ugar, completely slipped my mind. Where would I be without you, kiddo?" Tony asked.
"Dead, because Pepper would have killed you," replied Harry smartly.
"Yes, she would have. You just saved my life, Mini-Merlin. I may have to get you a few more Christmas presents for that. Although, I don't know what else I could get you. Maybe Pepper will let me get you that…" Tony's voice trailed off in thought.
"Just plan something nice for her," Harry commanded.
"I will do my best," Tony saluted before signing off.
Harry made his way back to Pepper and Happy. Pepper appeared to be stalling by arguing with Happy before heading on to her next meeting.
"So what's next on today's schedule?" Harry asked as he joined them.
"It's a meeting with someone I used to know," Pepper said a little nervously.
"Did you two used to date or something?" Harry questioned.
"No, but he used to ask me out quite a bit. I never said yes," Pepper replied peeking into the conference room.
"I'll make sure he doesn't bother you," Harry assured her.
Pepper laughed. "Thank you, Harry."
The two of them walked into the office. A well-dressed blonde man stood from the couch and flashed the two of them a bright, blinding smile. Harry instantly didn't like him. His fake smile reminded him of Lockhart, and the way he was looking at Pepper just wasn't okay with Harry.
"Aldrich, wow, I can't believe that's you. You look great," Pepper greeted looking stunned as she stared at him.
"And Pepper, you are still just as beautiful," he replied leaning forward to kiss her on the cheek.
"Thank you," Pepper smiled.
"And who is this?" Aldrich flashed him another bright smile. But Harry noticed the tightness around his eyes that gave away his displeasure at Harry's added company.
"This is Harry, he's Tony's son. He's been shadowing me today so that he can learn a little bit about how the company is run," Pepper smiled fondly at Harry.
"Well, bucko, I have a treat for you today. You're about to see something very exciting," Aldrich said in a cutesy voice as if Harry was five instead of twelve.
"Great," Harry forced a smile.
He launched into his spiel, and Extremis was interesting. The presentation of the mapping of the brain was certainly eye-catching. But Harry and Pepper both had the same idea when it came to altering genes, and testing it on people. Pepper politely declined Aldrich's proposition.
Pepper and Harry saw Aldrich out. Happy stood beside them muttering about how there was something up with Aldrich's driver. Harry hadn't seen him so he couldn't agree or disagree about his character. Happy stayed behind while Harry and Pepper headed home. Harry and Sirius would be having a movie night with Remus tonight while Tony and Pepper had their date night, as long as Tony remembered their date night.
When they entered the mansion, it was to find Tony in the suit sitting on the couch, and there was a very large stuffed rabbit. It was the biggest stuffed animal Harry had ever seen, and he wondered if Sirius had a hand in enlarging it. Harry went upstairs to his room so that Pepper and Tony could have a private conversation. Tony had installed the same type of ceiling in his room here as he had in his room in the tower. Harry liked Malibu but he missed the tower and the other Avengers. He understood that Tony needed a little time away from the tower and the bad memories, and Harry did enjoy the privacy of the Malibu mansion. It was nice to have access to the beach and the ocean every day, and the view from his bedroom was incredible. Harry could have stared at it all day.
"Hey, pup," Sirius greeted from the doorway.
"Hey, Padfoot," Harry replied smiling at the wizard.
Sirius was still a little worn looking but he looked loads better than he did a couple of weeks ago.
"How was your day with Pepper?"
"It was pretty good. I suppose the company is pretty neat but I don't think I could ever do what Pepper does," Harry admitted.
"Harry, I don't think ten people could do what Pepper does. She runs a business, and keeps that barmy father of yours out of trouble. I think it would take an army to accomplish that," Sirius grinned.
Harry laughed. Just then they both heard a loud clang.
"Should we go check on that?" Harry asked.
"I think Tony's been working on that new project of his. He can control the suits without actually being in them now," Sirius replied.
"Wait, so was dad not in the suit down there?" Harry could only imagine how mad Pepper would be if he pulled something like that.
Sirius smirked. "I don't believe he was."
"Brilliant," Harry sighed.
"I don't envy his position right now. Pepper is a scary, scary woman. On par with your mum when she was in a temper," Sirius shuddered. He was no doubt remembering the time Pepper caught the two of them enchanting the mirrors in the mansion to make everyone's appearance in the mirror become that of Chewbacca from Star Wars. Pepper had honestly thought it was funny but she'd wanted to scare Sirius to keep his pranks from escalating any further. Needless to say, Sirius had wisely decided to never pull another prank that directly affected her again.
Remus arrived by portkey around six. The three of them ordered pizza while Tony and Pepper went out to dinner. This was Remus's third visit to the mansion. The werewolf reminded Harry a lot of Bruce. He was also a very calming presence to Sirius. Harry knew that Sirius still sometimes had flashbacks to Azkaban. Both Sirius and Tony had Harry worried with their behavior.
Harry enjoyed his movie night with Remus and Sirius. They ended up playing a game of Exploding Snap, and regaled Harry with their exploits from their school days. Remus eventually said his goodbyes and had to return home. Sirius was trying to convince him to move to America so that the two of them could buy a place together. Remus was still reluctant to make the move for reasons unknown. Of course even Sirius was nostalgic for Britain even after all he had been put through. Harry was just glad to have Sirius here with him for the time being in the event Sirius decided to move back.
Harry and Sirius headed to bed before Tony and Pepper got back from their date. There was a crash that woke Harry up in the middle of the night. Harry got up to investigate. He could hear Sirius still snoring in the room over from his, and Pepper and Tony talking. He walked over to open his door only to see an upset looking Pepper walk past him.
"Pepper, is everything all right?" Harry asked in concern.
"It's fine, Harry. I'm just going to sleep downstairs tonight," she answered curtly before continuing on downstairs.
Harry frowned and glanced over to see the light coming from Tony's room. Worried about him, Harry walked over to his door and knocked.
"Come in, kiddo," Tony called.
Harry walked in to see Tony sitting on his bed with a lost look on his face. Scattered pieces of his newest Iron Man suit lay across the floor.
"Are you all right?" Harry stood awkwardly in the doorway not really sure what to do.
"Come here," Tony patted the bed while he flopped down on the pillows to look up at the ceiling.
Harry crossed the floor avoiding the pieces of the suit as he went, and climbed onto the bed to sit beside Tony. Harry waited patiently for Tony to speak while he stared up at the ceiling.
"I'm drowning here, kiddo," he finally said.
"What do you mean?"
"I thought I had everything together after what happened in New York. But then seeing Asgard and the Chitauri, even wizards. Human beings are seriously outclassed in so many ways. I want to protect the ones I love from those threats, and sometimes I just get so…"
"What?" Harry encouraged.
"Overwhelmed, terrified, and I just can't function or I'm overworking myself just to keep myself from thinking too much about it. I'm having nightmares when I do sleep. You know how I went to lunch with Rhodey the other day?" Harry nodded. "Well, I had a panic attack. Me, Tony Stark, I had a panic attack."
"It happens. What you went through was horrible. It takes time to get over things," Harry tried to console him. He was pretty sure he was absolute rubbish at it.
"You were there too, Loki mind whammied you and you almost died. Then you had a fight with a man-eating snake and you're fine. Which I'm grateful for, don't get me wrong. It's my mission in life to make sure you're more well adjusted that I am. I just wish I was as strong as you are," Tony whispered.
"You are strong. The strongest person I know, and the only reason I've been so resilient is because I've had you. I know you'll protect me no matter what, and I trust you to do it. Who knows what would have happened if I didn't? I feel safe with you, and so I guess I really don't feel the same feelings of panic," Harry told him firmly.
Tony was one of the first adults he'd ever truly trusted.
Tony turned to Harry looking a little misty eyed. Of course he hadn't slept in a couple of days so his eyes could have been watering because of that. It just seemed so strange to think that Tony Stark could cry. Harry had seen it before but this felt different. Tony was opening up to him, and treating him and speaking to him like an adult.
"Thanks, kiddo," Tony choked out. "I'll try to live up to that trust."
"You already have," Harry assured.
He finally felt comfortable enough to flop down next to Tony, and snuggled in. It was truly peaceful moment between the two of them. Where they completely understood the other, and took comfort from their growing bond. Together they stared at the ceiling. Soon after Tony had Jarvis hit the lights, and Tony began making shadow puppets on the ceiling using the light from the Arc Reactor. He had Harry laughing, and without meaning to he drifted off to sleep.
The next morning Harry was woken up by the sunlight streaming through the windows. For a moment he was confused about where he was but memories of being woken in the middle of the night, and talking with Tony filtered back to him. Tony must have just tucked him under the covers after he had fallen asleep. Harry glanced over to the side to see Tony still asleep on the other side of the bed. Harry was relieved to see him asleep for once. Even in his sleep Tony looked anxious, and Harry wished he could have erased it.
Harry got up and decided to make a nice breakfast. Tony didn't like him cooking or doing any of the household chores but he didn't mind when he occasionally cooked since it was something Harry enjoyed doing from time to time. Pepper was still asleep on the couch. Harry moved quietly in the kitchen so he wouldn't wake her. She was under nearly as much stress as Tony was. Stark Industries was still undergoing a huge switch from a weapons company to creating a clean energy source.
Tony was the first to make his way downstairs.
"What's all this for, kiddo?" Tony asked as he accepted a plate.
"I don't know, I just felt like it," Harry shrugged.
"Thanks," Tony smiled.
The two of them ate in companionable silence. They turned on the TV to watch some cartoons. They'd been watching for only a couple of minutes when their TV station was hijacked. It was the Mandarin and he was claiming a bombing that had occurred in Malibu last night.
"I have no idea why SHIELD hasn't tried taking that guy out yet," Tony muttered angrily once it was finally over.
"He is crazy. But maybe they just think it's something the government should take care of by themselves? Maybe they have other things to do?" Harry offered.
"Maybe," Tony shrugged, and had Jarvis switch to the news.
The news anchors began to list the causalities of the attack. Both Harry and Tony were stunned to discover that Happy Hogan had been identified as one of the victims. He was in critical condition in one of the local hospitals.
Harry watched the horror and rage that over took Tony's features. Harry was extremely upset as well but Happy had been Tony's bodyguard and friend for years. The hit was very close to home for Tony.
"Dad?" Harry asked quietly when Tony had remained staring at the TV screen for several long moments.
"I need to get to the hospital," Tony murmured.
"I'll go with you," Harry said.
"No, kiddo, you stay here. The press is going to be a zoo and I want you out of the limelight for this," Tony insisted.
"But dad… Happy. I want to know if he's all right," Harry sent Tony puppy eyes in hopes that it would change his mind.
"No, Harry. I'm sorry. It's safer this way. I've got to go. Let Pepper know where I went when she wakes up." Tony rushed out of the house.
Harry watched him go before turning his attention back to the news, and trying to find some hint of information on Happy. Eventually Pepper and Sirius drifted down to the kitchen, drawn by the smell of eggs and bacon.
"Good morning, Harry, thank you for making breakfast," Pepper smiled warmly as she sat down.
"Yeah, pup, you didn't have to go through all this trouble," Sirius said around a mouthful of eggs.
"Is Tony still in the workshop?" Pepper asked, frowning.
"No, there was another Mandarin attack last night. He claimed responsibility for it this morning. Happy was hurt, and dad's at hospital to see how he is," Harry replied glumly.
"I can't believe it. Does it say what sort of condition he's in?" Pepper asked her hand pressed against her chest.
"Just that it was critical. He was really close to the blast. But other than that the news hasn't mentioned anything else about him," Harry fiddled with his fork nervously; hating that he had been left behind.
"Let's check again. Jarvis?" Pepper called.
The AI complied quickly and brought up several different news channels before settling on one with relevant information. They were talking about the causalities and went into a bit more detail about Happy especially since it had been discovered that he was Tony Stark's head of security. Suddenly they cut to breaking news on sight.
"Tony Stark: Iron Man, Avenger, and former CEO of Stark Industries's head of security, Happy Hogun, was injured in last night's explosion. Mr. Stark is reportedly just leaving the hospital now. Let's see if we can get a word with Mr. Stark," the newscaster announced before the screen changed.
The three of them watched in silence as Tony appeared coming out of the hospital. He looked angry, tired, and just miserable though he hid it well even as the reporters swarmed him. Harry's heart went out to him, and wished Tony had brought him with him.
One of the reporters asked Tony about the Mandarin.
"Oh, don't do it Tony," Pepper whispered in distress.
Harry glanced back at the TV to watch as Tony announced his intentions to take out the Mandarin. He even went as far as to threaten him and give him his home address.
"I can't believe he just did that," Pepper muttered.
"He's got madness in his eyes, and I should know considering that's pretty close to what I looked like after getting out of Azkaban," Sirius muttered.
"He hasn't been sleeping. He said he has nightmares, and they make it difficult for him," Harry defended.
"Either way, we're not staying here after that. Harry pack a bag, we'll head to the island. We'll spend a nice quiet holiday there," Pepper assured him.
"Or we could spend Christmas in England with Remus. He has a cabin out in the woods. I'm sure he wouldn't mind a few extra guests," Sirius offered.
"We can decide later, let's just get out of here as quick as we can. I don't trust this Mandarin person at all," Pepper stated.
Harry couldn't argue with Pepper's logic, and quickly went upstairs to pack a bag. Pepper and Sirius did the same. Harry threw all of his important items in his trunk, and made sure Hedwig was close by. The sound of Tony, Thor, and a unknown woman's voice had Harry heading towards the stairs with his trunk and Hedwig. Pepper had already thrown her bags to the floor, and was stalking down the staircase. Harry was surprised to see Thor standing in the middle of the living room along with an unfamiliar brunette woman. Pepper had asked who she was.
"This is Maya Angelo, an old botanist friend," Tony responded.
"Botanist, sure. I really need to tell you something, and no there's not a twelve-year-old kid waiting in the car. Although, I've heard that's already happened to you once," the now named Maya informed Tony.
"Right, well, Maya, would love to chat but I gave out my address to an unstable and very hostile terrorist so I really need to get my son away from here as fast as possible," Tony explained.
"Dad, what's going on? Is Happy okay?" Harry demanded descending the staircase.
"Everything is fine. Happy is going to pull through but he was hurt pretty bad. Thor's going to take you to Asgard until this all blows over. So go grab your—"
"What? Dad, no. I don't want to leave you. I'm not going to leave you. How can you just send me away like this?" Harry cut him off in outrage.
"Harry, we're not arguing about this. You're going. I need to know you're somewhere this guy can't touch you. And I'm pretty sure he can't reach you on Asgard," Tony insisted.
"We will have a glorious time, nephew, we can go hunting in Vanaheim," Thor boasted.
"If you don't want my help. Then ask Thor or Bruce to help you," Harry suggested.
"This is personal, Merlin, and I think I can handle this whacko," Tony replied.
"Sir, three helicopters are rapidly approaching," Jarvis suddenly chimed.
"Shit, okay, Thor take Harry. Black take Pepper and Maya," Tony commanded.
"Dad, no!" Harry cried.
He struggled as Thor swept him up into his arms, and called for the Bifrost. The last thing Harry heard was the sounds of gunfire before being swept up into the Bifrost. The moment Thor, Harry, Hedwig, and Harry's trunk arrived in Asgard Harry shoved his way out of Thor's arm. He was only successful because Thor let him go.
"Bring me back, Thor. Please bring me back," Harry demanded of the god.
"I am afraid I cannot. Your father charged me with your safety, and I will not disappoint him. You may return when your father calls for you but until then you will remain here," Thor replied steadily.
Harry glanced to Heimdall who only looked on passively.
"Are they all right? Did they make it out of the house?" Harry demanded of the all-seeing gatekeeper.
"Your father, and all of the others successfully made it out of the house before it was destroyed," Heimdall nodded calmly.
"Good, that's good," Harry was in shock.
He couldn't believe that the mansion had been destroyed. He couldn't believe that Happy had been hurt. So much had happened in such a short amount of time that it was difficult for him to process. Harry was great when in the middle of danger but standing on the sidelines, and worrying about others putting themselves in danger wasn't something that he was used to.
"Come, Harry, Mother will be pleased to see you. I'm sure she will order the cooks to make your favorite meal tonight," Thor put an arm across his shoulders and began to lead him up to the palace.
Harry allowed Thor to pull him along. There wasn't much he could do to get back to Earth. He was stuck here if Heimdall didn't let him through, and there was no way he could get past the gatekeeper. Unless he found someone who could tell him about a secret pathway he could use to get back to Earth. Luckily Harry knew just the person he could ask to get that information. With a plan in mind he joyfully went along with Thor to greet Frigga.
The next morning after he had settled in a bit, and enjoyed a nice breakfast with Frigga, he went to visit Loki. He descended into the dungeons of Asgard, which were much more resplendent than the dungeons of Hogwarts. The guards on duty hardly batted an eye at him. They had gotten used to seeing Harry come to visit Loki, and no longer bothered to search him when he came and went from the dungeons.
"Harry, I thought not to expect you until after your mortal holidays," Loki greeted as he stood from his position reading while on the bed.
The god looked much the same as he had during every other visit Harry had paid to him. He'd been reduced to simple cloth clothing and his hair was in a tangle of black waves.
"Some villain is after my dad, and he sent me here to protect me," Harry shrugged.
"Which you were not pleased with, correct?" Loki quirked an eyebrow.
"No, and I want to go back to Earth," Harry stated.
"You want me to tell you how to accomplish this?" Loki asked.
Harry nodded.
"Returning to Midgard would put you in the direct path of danger," Loki pointed out.
"I know, but it's my dad. I have to know he's all right. I have to help him," Harry pleaded.
"Ask Heimdall to tell you what is happening. He sees all, and it will be much safer," Loki replied.
"Please Loki, help me," Harry begged.
"I promise I will tell you… tomorrow. Right now you are not thinking clearly. Give it a day to think things through before you rush off into unnecessary danger. You are perhaps the only mortal that I somewhat tolerate, and I don't want anything to happen to you. Do we have a deal?" Loki offered.
Harry mulled it over and sighed. He didn't really have any other options. "All right."
"Good, now let's review. You've been gone for over a fortnight and I want to make sure you haven't forgotten anything while lazing away on Midgard. In fact why don't you come inside the cell?" Loki offered.
"Inside the cell?" Harry frowned.
"Yes, inside, remember we went over this. The wards around it are keyed into my unique genetic and magical signature. Our signatures are very similar but just different enough for you to be able to move in and out. Frigga often enters my cell when she comes to speak with me. Only I am incapable of getting in and out. Unless you are uncomfortable entering," Loki speculated.
"No, it's not that. Why haven't you asked to me to enter before this?" Harry questioned.
Harry knew that the walls of the Asgardian prison were keyed in to a prisoner's unique signature and allowed others to move in and out of the cell freely while the prisoner themselves couldn't break through the wall. Loki could also perform magic inside the cell but because it was keyed into is specific magical signature he couldn't perform magic that would affect anything outside the cell.
"Because I knew you would not be comfortable with it before now, and even now I am not sure you are entirely ready," Loki answered.
"It's fine, and it will definitely be easier to practice without the barrier between us," Harry stepped into Loki's cell.
Loki smiled.
Harry smiled back, and their lessons commenced as they always did.
The next morning he had breakfast with Frigga, which was became awkward with the addition of Odin. Thor wasn't even there to ease some of the tension since he was off fighting in another realm. Apparently there was quite a bit of unrest that had to be quelled after the destruction of the Bifrost. Harry went out to talk with Heimdall about his dad after he spending the morning with Frigga in lessons on the Nine Realms. The Keeper of the Bifrost gave Harry a play-by-play of what had been happening down on Earth. His dad was working hard to find the Mandarin. But he didn't have his suit with him. It had been partially destroyed when the mansion was bombed and all of the others were trapped in the rubble. At least he did have Sirius. Harry wasn't sure if it was a good thing or not that the two of them were working together.
After getting Heimdall to swear to contact him in the event that something happened, Harry once more made the journey down to Loki's cell. The god greeted him and invited him inside once more.
"So, I waited a day. Will you tell me about the different pathways back to Earth?" Harry asked.
"I did promise, didn't I?" Loki smirked.
"You did," Harry agreed.
"Very well, I will tell you today. But not right now."
"But you promised," Harry cried.
"I said today, I didn't specify a time," Loki pointed out.
Harry rolled his eyes. "I should have known."
"Yes, you should have. Do try to pay more attention to people's wording. You are far too trusting, and honest for your own good," Loki chided.
"Those are good things you know," Harry argued.
"Are they?" Loki frowned, smiling slightly, and not looking at all convinced.
"Yes."
"Those things allow people to take advantage of you," Loki explained as if Harry was either very young or very stupid. Loki probably thought Harry was both in comparison with himself.
"They also allow you to have friends, and be a good person," Harry responded.
"Being a good person is rather boring. It gets you nowhere in life. If you want something you must go after it. To achieve your goals must be willing to do whatever is necessary," Loki argued.
"But then people get hurt, and people hate you. Then you end up alone," Harry whispered.
Loki glared. "Who needs other people, if they just get in your way?"
"I suppose we'll just have to agree to disagree," Harry sighed.
Harry was certain that the only reason Loki thought this way was because he felt alone in the world. He no longer felt like he had a place to call his own. He wasn't an Asgardian and the Frost Giants probably wouldn't accept him after being raised in Asgard by the man they all hate. Not to mention he also killed their king, and tried to destroy them all. Loki had a right to be so defensive all of the time. But it also meant he was shutting everyone else out of his life, and Harry had seen how much it hurt Frigga.
"If you're not going to tell me about the pathways right now, what do you suppose we do all day?" Harry questioned.
"You plan to stay here all day?" Loki frowned.
"Thor's gone to Vanaheim or Anaheim. It was something with a heim at the end," Harry replied.
Loki chuckled. "It doesn't narrow it down much. Most of the realms end in heim."
"It makes things rather confusing," Harry grumbled.
"Yes, I suppose it does, for you mortals."
"Oi!" Harry protested.
Loki just smirked. "Now as for what we could do. How about we play some games?"
"Too bad we don't have any Exploding Snap cards," Harry sighed.
"Exploding Snap? It doesn't sound very promising," Loki muttered.
"Wait, my trunk is here, and I have some in my trunk," Harry cheered.
Loki frowned. "Oh joy."
"Please, can we play?" Harry sent Loki the look that never failed to work on his dad.
"Very well, go and retrieve them, and we will see if this game is worth the time," Loki sighed.
Harry grinned and raced up and out of the dungeons to his room to collect the game. The rest of the afternoon was spent with Loki in his cell. They started out playing games but soon it turned into Loki telling him stories he had been told in his childhood. Loki used his magic to make the stories play out like a movie before their eyes. It was extremely entertaining, and Harry was certain that the two of them were finally getting closer.
Harry was forced to leave Loki's cell around dinnertime with the promise to return so that Loki could teach him a few of the different pathways to get to Midgard. Thor was still off fighting. There had been a lot of rebellions breaking out ever since Loki used the Bifrost to try and destroy Jotunheim. The other realms were in a bit of chaos. Now that the Bifrost had been fixed Thor and other Asgardian warriors were out trying to settle everything down again. Harry once again had dinner with just Frigga and Odin in their private chambers. Frigga and he kept up most of the conversation while Odin remained silent. Odin still hadn't warmed up to him, and he wasn't exactly Harry's favorite person either.
After dinner Harry returned to Loki's cell with the excuse to Frigga that he wanted to say goodnight to Loki. The god sat them both down on his cot.
"I will start by explaining how dangerous and unpredictable these pathways can be," Loki regarded him sternly.
Harry nodded solemnly. He knew it would probably be dangerous but needed to get to Tony. Logically he knew Tony was a grown man capable of taking care of himself but Harry couldn't help the fact it was ingrained in him that he needed to help. He felt useless.
"They are not to be taken lightly. These pathways can be highly unstable. Some more than others. One of the most reliable pathways is between Asgard and Jotunheim. From Jotunheim there are several pathways to various realms. One being a direct bridge between Midgard and Jotunheim. The Frost Giants took advantage of this passageway during their attempts to take control of Midgard. Odin was never able to find it to destroy making it possible for me to discover it years later. However, I am uncertain if you would be able to survive in the temperatures of Jotunheim. I suppose if you were properly bundled up you could survive long enough to find the pathway to Midgard," Loki mused.
"I know what you're trying to do," Harry said.
"Good, because I do not want you to go. It is dangerous, and I doubt you would be able to survive the freezing temperatures of Jotunheim for an extending period of time," Loki warned.
"I promise to wait one more day," Harry offered.
"Very well," Loki sighed.
Loki told him of several different gateways between the realms, and their locations. Loki only told him about the ones that were the most reliable to use. It worked out well because Harry feared he wouldn't be able to remember all of the locations of the ones that Loki did tell him and where they went.
"Thank you, Loki," Harry told him sincerely once Loki finished.
"Yes, well, appreciate the knowledge you have been given and don't abuse it. It has taken me many years of hard work to gather all of that information," Loki warned.
"I won't, I'll use it wisely," Harry promised.
"Good," Loki nodded.
Harry said goodnight before he went back up to bed. He wanted nothing more than to rush back down to Earth to find his dad. But he thought of Loki's words, and about how he would probably be more in the way than a help. Harry didn't know what to do. He felt helpless knowing that his dad was down there possibly fighting for his life while Harry was here perfectly safe and comfortable. It went against all of Harry's instincts to just sit back and wait.
In the end all of his worrying didn't matter. The next morning when he woke up Frigga had come to inform him that Tony had called Heimdall, and he was safe and ready for Harry to come home. Harry was thrilled to be going home. He'd missed Christmas day but he was certain that they would be able to make it up.
Harry was eager to return home, and see his dad but he had to say goodbye to Loki first. They wouldn't be able to see one another for a while. Harry would be staying on Earth for a month or so just like he and Tony had originally planned for their holidays.
"Harry, I take it you are finally returning home," Loki said by way of greeting.
"Yeah, and I won't be able to come to visit for a while so I've come to say goodbye. I didn't want you to be upset if I just left without telling you," Harry told him with a cheeky grin.
"And why should this bother me?" Loki waved his hand dismissively.
"Because you like me having me around," Harry grinned.
"Oh, don't do that, you look like your insufferably smug father when you smile like," Loki scowled.
"Are you talking about Tony or you?" Harry shot back without thinking, he'd been hoping to startle Loki into laughing or recognizing their connection.
Loki appeared a bit uncomfortable so Harry wisely backed off.
"I've gotten you a gift," Loki said after a moment of silence.
"Really?" Harry was surprised.
"Yes, a magical text for you to study while you are away. It's one of the few I was allowed in my cell. I hope you appreciate it. I will test you on the information when you return," Loki warned.
"Thank you," Harry sighed.
"You are welcome. Now, come here. There are a few pages I would like to go over with you before you leave," Loki motioned him to enter the cell.
Harry did so without hesitation just as he had done for the past few days. Loki showed him the book on illusionary magic. They went over layering techniques, and how some illusions could be layered so thickly that they would last for days and could practically become solid. To demonstrate Loki began to layer complicated illusions over himself until finally standing before him was a perfect replica of Harry.
"That's wicked!" Harry enthused. "Can you do it to me?"
"Of course," Loki said with Harry's voice.
Loki began the process until Harry was an exact copy of Loki.
"This is weird," Harry murmured looking down at his hands. "I still feel like me. You know shorter and what not but at the same time I'm not."
"Yes, illusions take a little while to become accustomed to. They aren't like actual physical transformations," Loki agreed.
Harry nodded still looking over the illusions. He couldn't even see the lines of magic. Harry looked up to ask Loki a question only to find Loki as him outside the cell.
"Loki?" Harry questioned in confusion.
"I'm sorry, Harry. But I cannot stay here. The illusions will wear off in a week at most and when they find out they will release you. By then I will be long gone," Loki informed him.
"Why? How?" Harry demanded.
"I needed to escape, and you were perfect for the part. A failsafe if you will. Our magical signature was just close enough for it to work, and confuse the cell. You could move in and out of the prison walls but with just a minor adjustment the wards could be fooled into thinking I'm you and you are me. As long as one person remains behind in the cell I would be able to escape," Loki explained with grin.
"This was your plan all along. You were just using me and I fell for it like a fool," Harry cried.
He ran to the side of the cell only for the shimmering yellow walls to repel him and send him stumbling back.
"Yes, well that is what you deserve for trusting a monster," Loki mocked.
"You aren't a monster, and I don't care what you say, you couldn't have pretended to like me for so long," Harry insisted.
"Why won't you just accept that I am not the person you seem to think I am? It was all a lie you trusting, foolish boy!" Loki snarled at him.
"Because someone has to believe in you," Harry said staring straight into his eyes.
"You will not change my mind with this pathetic, compassionate act," Loki hissed looking away, unable to meet Harry's sharp gaze.
"And you won't change mine," Harry said stubbornly.
"Goodbye, Harry," Loki waved as he departed.
"Loki, don't do this!" Harry called.
"You'll see, this is for your benefit as well, Harry. In a way I'm protecting you for what's to come. There is no safer place than Asgard," Loki called back.
Harry watched in stunned amazement as Loki disappeared up the stairs without looking back, and he was left standing alone in the cell feeling utterly betrayed.
/
It had been a crazy few days for Sirius. Tony Stark certainly was one of the craziest, and most brilliant men he'd ever known. Their little adventure had certainly brought the two of them closer together. Now, they were set up in Avengers Tower waiting for Thor to bring Harry back. Stark was on the couch healing up from their adventure, and watching a movie with his friend Bruce. He seemed like a nice guy to Sirius. When Stark mentioned the whole green monster thing Sirius thought it would be a good idea to get him and Remus together. Remus had been a werewolf for most of his life maybe he could help Bruce with his transformations.
The ever-mysterious Agent Coulson had arrived shortly after they did, and had asked to speak with Sirius out on the large balcony. Sirius was curious so he followed him.
"Thank you for all your help with the Extremis situation, Mr. Black," Agent Coulson stated as Sirius approached him. The squib was a very no nonsense type of person, and Sirius would never admit it but he was actually a bit intimidated by the man. He was also very grateful to him for his part in getting him pronounced innocent.
"It was my pleasure," Sirius assured.
The attack against Stark and the ensuing battle had been the most fun Sirius had experienced in ages. Not to mention he'd gotten the chance to finally prove himself to Stark. It had been invigorating and reminded him a great deal of what his life had been like when he'd been a part of the Order. He missed those times and all the trouble he and James had gotten into. Being in situations like that kept him from remembering his time spent in Azkaban.
"I have a little team. We deal with situations similar to this one. Perhaps not on such a large scale but similar. We're also working on learning more about Voldemort," Agent Coulson informed him.
Sirius unintentionally flinched at the name. But he felt a familiar rage stir up inside him at the mention of the dark bastard.
"You've fought against him before. We need an expert on him. How would you like to join my team?" Agent Coulson offered.
Sirius was shocked by the offer. He wasn't sure he even fully understood what his team really did. But it didn't stop him from wanting the chance to continue having adventures and being involved in dangerous situations. It helped to keep his mind from the darkness of Azkaban.
"Yes," he said quickly.
"You're certain?" Coulson insisted.
"Yeah, I'd love to. And if I get a chance to stick it to that snake bastard all the better," Sirius said with a fierce grin.
"All right then, welcome to SHIELD. I'll introduce you to the rest of the team next week," Coulson gave a small, pleased smile.
Sirius laughed. He couldn't wait to start. Life was certainly looking up.
When he heard Tony's loud shout from inside he was pretty certain he'd spoken too soon. Sirius ran back into the tower. Stark was glaring at Harry and pointing one of the metal hands from his suit at Harry threateningly.
"Now, who are you?" Stark demanded.
"Tony?" Pepper frowned, understandably concerned about Stark's mental health. Had the fight been too much and caused the man to finally snap? Why else would he be threatening his own son?
"Stark, what do you think you're doing?" Sirius worried, convinced that the man had finally lost his mind.
"Dad, I don't know what you're talking about," Harry replied, looking frightened.
"I know my son and that is not Harry," Stark insisted. "Harry's nice but he's not that polite or stiff. Now, who are you!?"
A smirk flashed over Harry's features, a smirk that seemed very out of place on Harry's face.
"Loki!?" Stark growled.
In a shower of gold sparks Sirius got his first good look at the God of Lies himself as he stood before them in all his black leather and ridiculous horned glory.
"Man of Iron," Loki greeted. "I didn't think you would have been able to catch on so quickly."
"Where's my son?" Stark snarled his eyes dangerously dark.
"You have nothing to fear. He is not harmed in the least. We merely switched places. However, I have somewhere I need to be. May we not meet again," with a jaunty wave Loki disappeared.
Stark screamed and lunged trying to catch the bastard but it was far too late. Sirius hadn't even moved he was far too startled by the turn of events. Now he was stuck staring at the spot where Loki had been just a moment before. What was going on here? How did Loki free himself? Where was Harry? And more importantly was he all right?
So sorry about the long wait. I've just started my very first full time job in the field I went to college for. So I've been more than a little busy, and haven't had any time for fanfic. Now that I'm finally getting the hang of things I can start taking a look at my stories again. But that still means that my updates will take a little longer. But rest assured that they will eventually be up. I have no intentions of abandoning this story or the others. I've actually been working on a one-shot AU of My Son the Wizard. Its a what if Petunia had discovered Lily's diary earlier and a pre-Iron Man Tony Stark gets custody of a much younger Harry. It should be finished by the time I post the next chapter.
There have been a few questions about Loki's children. I am aware of them but in this fic much like in the movies there will be no mention of them or involvement. Only Sleipnir makes an appearance in Thor but he's never mentioned again after that or referenced as Loki's son. Because I didn't plan on involving them at all I decided not to have them exist at all. If you would like to read something with Loki's other children check out my other fic A Case of Mistaken Identities. Loki's children are going to be involved quite a bit, especially Jormungandr who will have quite a large role.
Thanks for reading!