Harry was having the time of his life.
For the first time in months, he felt truly free—no saddle, no cautious flying for the safety of small passengers, no wary glances downward to make sure little arms were holding on tight. Just him, his dragons, the vast open sky, and the feeling of lightning dancing at his fingertips.
It was exhilarating.
Lightning forked down from the heavens, hitting Harry's open hand and then shooting out of his other extended palm with a bright crack that echoed across the sky.
Altair let out a crooning roar beneath him.
"You enjoy this too much, my dear. Nox gets so jealous when she can't bring the ocean with her," Harry teased, brushing his fingers along one of the old scars at the base of Altair's neck.
The dragon let out a pleased hum as electricity dances over his scales.
Altair huffed. "Let her. This dance, this sky, this freedom, its everything you promised me and more, mother."
Harry laughed even as his throat closed slightly at the reminder of his captivity, the sound lost in the wind not long after.
He couldn't help thinking about Shikaku as Altair mentioned it being a dance once more.
He refused to call it a mating dance. But when Altair swooped low over the building where he felt Shikaku earlier and Harry caught sight of the older man on the rooftop, his heart had skipped slightly.
"Mother, look! Is that the Shadow Mate you were looking for?" Altair teased.
"Not you too," Harry muttered aloud, heat rising in his cheeks. Still, he felt that flutter again. That little pull as he swooped past the man, laughing and deciding to give him a show by falling onto Nox's back mid-flight.
Nearly an hour later, he decided it was time for him to join the other back on the ground. He let his magic spread out over the village below him, searching for his boy's magical signatures.
There.
Two familiar sparks.
"Time to go join the boys down below," he said to Nox, broadcasting the feeling gently to the others. "Keep flying if you want. Once you're ready, return to the compound. You can stay there or go through the gateway to the Keep. Theres enough room for all of you to sleep there."Nox grumbled in response, but Harry could feel her affection. She was proud of their display today and didn't want it to end. Still, she swooped downward to where he was guiding her.
Harry wrapped his veil around himself, weaving it around him until he was unnoticeable to all below. There were shouts from the villagers marvelling as the dragons passed overhead. It made for the perfect distraction.
He leapt from her back without hesitation.
The wind bit at him a bit, but he was already summoning it to slow his fall, guiding his body down into a narrow alley nearby. His boots touched the ground with barely a whisper.
He straightened his coat, catching his breath as he reigned in the laughter bubbling in his chest. He hadn't felt this young and exhilarated in years.
Loosening his veil a bit, he approached the crowd. Saeko stood with Shikamaru and Teddy just ahead. The two Nara guards with them—Ko and Daen, if he remembered correctly—looked subtly alert, as if sensing something in his direction.
Interesting, he mused.
He remembered Ensui seeing through his veil back in the capital. That had been unexpected. But to have these two Nara reacting as well? He's been so used to no one sensing him at all, even with his veil barely covering him.
The fact that they were sensing him — even slightly — was a bit of a shock.
He let the veil fade slightly and watched as the guards exchanged glances. Confusion clouding their faces for a second, before focusing on the area he was standing in with narrowed eyes.
He pulled the veil tighter, and their tension seemed to evaporate, although their confusion lingered.
It must be their connection to the shadows, he thought. I should show Shikaku the shadow magic texts I have. Shikamaru could definitely learn them. With his magical core from the blood adoption, it would be easy. But Shikaku might be able to use them as well…
Finally, he let the veil drop entirely.
The reaction was instantaneous.
Ko and Daen straightened, hands darting toward their weapon pouches before recognising him. Then they relaxed with visible effort, though their faces remained slightly wary at his sudden appearance.
Harry raised a finger to his lips in a shushing motion.
He crept behind Shikamaru, who was talking animatedly to Saeko, gesturing at the sky.
"Did you see the way that black one twisted around the others? He's Rigel, he's Teddy's dragon! And the big white one, Maashah fought a whole army of warriors to free him from his chains!"
Harry grinned and wondered what elaborate stories Tilly had been telling his son again.
Instead, he pounced.
Shikamaru yelped as Harry lifted him clean off the ground with a quiet roar, tickling his sides and pressing kisses to his cheek while the boy squirmed.
"Massshaaa!" Shikamaru yelped, half-laughing, half-scolding. "We're in public, this is embarrassing!"
"Oh no," Harry teased, setting him down with exaggerated care. "Whatever will people think? That I adore my son?"
Shikamaru pouted. "Troublesome."
Saeko was laughing softly, holding a sleepy Teddy in the chest harness. Harry turned to her with a warm smile.
"Trade you," he said, already reaching for Teddy. She gladly handed the baby over.
Teddy cooed and immediately planted a kiss on Harry's nose, babbling nonsense in excitement. Harry returned the affection tenfold, peppering his face with kisses and nuzzling their noses together.
"You saw it, didn't you, Teddy? Did you see me fall through the sky like an idiot?"
Teddy shrieked in joy.
"He definitely saw it," Saeko said with a smile. "We all did. That was... something else, Hari. The lightning manipulation alone…"
Harry chuckled. "We all had fun. Though Nox grumbled about me cutting it short." He looked down at Shikamaru. "Did you like it?"
Shikamaru nodded quickly. "It was amazing! Everyone is talking about it. You even flew over my dad's building, didn't you?"
Harry grinned. "Maybe. I might have given him a heart attack or two."
"You definitely gave him a heart attack," Saeko said dryly.
"When you kept falling from one dragon to the next," Shikamaru chimed in excitedly, "everyone screamed! That was the best part!"
Harry laughed, bouncing Teddy lightly.
Saeko turned to the two guards. "Ko, Daen, this is Ryūjin-sama. I'm sure you've seen him at the compound."
Ko bowed deeply. "Ryūjin-sama. It's an honour."
Daen gave a more casual bow and a small grin. "You put on quite the show."
Harry nodded politely, ignoring the way Daen was looking him up and down.
He felt no malice from the man, so he didn't let it bother him.
"The Nara really do have strong genes, don't they?" Harry commented instead, tilting his head.
Daen chuckled. "If Shikaku-sama takes too long, I'd be more than happy to show you around the village, Ryūjin-sama."
Harry flushed, caught off guard. "I—um."
"Daen," Shikamaru interrupted sternly, little hands on his hips as he glared up at the man. "Stop trying to sabi—sabotage my dad."
That earned a bark of laughter from Harry.
Saeko shook her head, amused. "A man needs to work for what he wants, Shikamaru. Your father will have to work faster if he wants to stop others from trying to woo your pretty Maashah."
Harry was still trying to cool his cheeks when he felt a small tug at his coat.
Startled, he looked down.
A small boy. About Shikamaru's age, wearing a thick coat and dark glasses.
Harry blinked.
Before he could ask anything, the boy let out a strange vibrating sound and smooshed his face into Harry's side, rubbing against him like a cat.
"Er. Hello there," Harry said eloquently.
He recognised that sound. He was sure it was the same hum Shibi made when his beetles reacted to magic. The boy did look like him.
"Are you... an Aburame, little one?" Harry asked gently, crouching slightly.
The boy just giggled and vibrated harder.
Harry groaned. "Right. Almost forgot about that effect on your clan."
Teddy was staring in fascination, pointing at the boy and babbling, vibrating his little chest in response to the beetles.
Harry looked helplessly at Saeko, who took Teddy back as Harry gently patted the boy's shoulder to get his attention.
"Did you wander off? Do you know where your parents are?"
The boy, still giggling, snuggled deeper into his side.
Harry sighed.
"Of course. Cats, the lot of you."
And with that, he crouched beside the vibrating child, resigned and bemused as the rest of the group laughed at his expense.
Harry gently lifted the boy into his arms, letting the small figure snuggle into his chest. The boy was slightly smaller than Shikamaru, practically vibrating with glee.
Shikamaru, stalked closer with narrowed eyes, tugging at the boy's thick coat in an attempt to gain his attention. When the Aburame child didn't react, Harry saw the familiar furrow of his son's brow.
He chuckled softly and reached down to smooth the crease from Shikamaru's forehead.
"I think he's an Aburame. They have insects living in their bodies," he explained quietly.
"I know that," Shikamaru huffed. "But why is he clinging to you like that?"
Harry leaned closer, stroking his son's hair affectionately. "Be kind," he hissed softly in Parseltongue, "Their insects react strangely to magic. It overwhelms them and makes them... emotional, slightly drunk."
"How do we fix it?" Shikamaru asked, matching his tone in Parseltongue like it was second nature.
Harry sighed, switching back to Japanese. "I don't know. Hopefully, his family is nearby."
Turning slightly, he looked toward Ko. "Would you mind holding him for a moment?" he asked, attempting to pass the boy off.
But the child only tightened his grip around Harry's neck, making a soft, delighted hum in his throat.
Harry let out a resigned sigh, and then a light tickle landed on his nose, and he almost swatted it before he realised. He blinked instead and carefully plucked a beetle from his skin before it could fall to the ground. It shimmered faintly, probably having tasted his magic and clearly looked overwhelmed.
He looked up when Saeko greeted someone behind him. Relief swept through him as he saw Shibi approaching, unreadable as ever behind his high collar and glasses.
Harry smiled. "Shibi. It's good to see you again," he said, holding the boy forward slightly. "A little beetle found me and decided I'm apparently very comfortable. In fact, he reminds me of you…" he trails off with a slight smirk.
The older man gave a knowing look, ears turning red and murmured, "Shino. I apologise Ry—Hari-sama, he got away from me while I was distracted. I believe his Kikaichu must have tasted your energy, and it made him curious."
The boy stirred slightly but only nestled deeper into Harry's neck with a giggle.
Shikamaru, ever dramatic, let out a loud sigh.
"Hey! You can let go now. Your dad's here…" he muttered, tugging at Shino's hand.
Harry laughed softly. "Mind if I come closer?" he asked Shibi. "It's been over a week since we last saw each other, I don't know if your tolerance has improved since."
Shibi gave a small nod, stepping forward.
Harry gently offered the beetle in his hand. "I think this little guy got a good dose."
Shibi examined the insect and then, to Harry's surprise, bowed his head slightly. "Thank you. It's very kind of you to help them, most would have killed them without a thought."
Then, he said formally, "Congratulations on your new position as Clan Head, Ryūjin-sama. I wish your clan many prosperous years."
Harry inclined his head. "Thank you, Aburame-sama."
It took effort to pry Shino from his neck, the boy giggling and whining as his father tried to take him back.
Shikamaru stepped up and, with all the seriousness of a diplomat, held out a pastry from the bag he'd been carrying. "If you let go of my Maashah, you can have this."
Harry groaned, amused. "We don't bribe people, Maru."
Still, Shino grasped the pastry and relaxed enough to be transferred fully into his father's arms.
"He's adorable," Harry remarked. "If you'd like, I could try crafting something imbued with my energy—maybe a token or small charm. It might help him acclimate, so this doesn't happen again."
Shibi blinked. "That would be... appreciated."
"I'd also love to invite your family for dinner at my compound sometime," Harry continued, smiling. "I think my boys would enjoy Shino's company when he's more himself."
Shibi looked taken aback, clearly unused to such invitations. "It may take time for Shino to adjust to your presence."
Shikamaru bit his lip, then shyly offered, "Maybe Shino can come over to play sometime with just me? You know, so he can get used to Maashah slowly."
Harry's heart swelled with pride.
He heard Saeko try to hold back a teary sniffle as she nodded. "He would always be welcome in the Nara compound as well."
Shibi seemed stumped for a moment, as if surprised by such openness. He nodded slowly. "That would be acceptable."
Harry smiled a bit more warmly seeing the man's awkwardness, "I'll be sure to send an invite for Shino to come play soon!"
As Shibi walked off with his sleepy son, Harry looked around and noticed the stares they were drawing. Whispers and eyes followed him, but none dared approach —not yet. It seemed people finally realised that he wasn't flying on the dragons anymore.
Harry ignored them and turned back to Shikamaru, cupping his face gently. "That was a very kind thing you did, little dragon. Do you want to be friends with Shino?"
Shikamaru blushed and looked away. "I guess. I already met Ino. She wasn't too bad…for a girl. And Dad said I can meet Chouji soon. It wouldn't hurt to have more friends for the Academy next year… right?"
Harry smiled warmly. "That sounds wonderful. You can have as many playdates as you want."
Saeko, holding a sleepy Teddy, nodded. "It would be good for you to have more friends by your side, little fawn. And it looks like Shibi-sama will be a good friend for your Maashah as well."
Harry smiled at her words. Truthfully, he had felt a bit lost without his close friends by his side these past months. He wouldn't object to finding more.
Daen snorted, "Looks like Shikaku-sama's going to have to beat them off with a kunai if he wants a chance."
Shikamaru glared. "It's not Maashah's fault everyone likes him."
Harry laughed. "And luckily, it's not so bad yet that I need a weapon to fend them off."
Ko looked at the surrounding civilians, murmuring, "Not yet. How troublesome."
Harry took the baby harness from Saeko and began to strap Teddy to his chest, taking off his coat first. As he adjusted the straps, he ignored the way eyes around them sharpened with interest. He made a mental note to never wear these pants during their outings again as he felt the eyes zoned in on him, specifically his backside.
Teddy sniffed and scrunched his nose, clearly displeased by the smell of another on Harry. The little boy began violently rubbing his face into Harry's chest, making little wolfy noises.
Harry laughed slightly. "Feeling territorial, little wolf?"
The baby just shoved his face into Harry's neck and growled cutely.
He turned to Saeko. "Where were you headed before I found you?"
Saeko gave him an amused look, "We were going to browse the travelling merchants' wares. The district is just west of the market."
Shikamaru took Harry's hand, and together they walked through the streets.
Along the way, children rushed up, eyes wide with wonder. "Can we ride your dragons, Ryūjin-sama?!"
Harry chuckled. "Sorry dears, it's not safe enough for children to be that high."
He didn't say that he didn't want to be responsible for anything that might happen to them. Although, that was an excuse since he would never allow harm to come to a child, but the thought of children banging on his gates demanding rides every day made him shiver with dread.
He would never get a moments peace if he agreed.
Some parents looked wary, but their curiosity was stronger. Hands reached out, trying to touch him, some murmuring blessings under their breaths. It was like the capital all over again.
Ko and Daen stepped in many times, keeping the nosy civilians from getting too close.
Once they reached the market district, the crowd had thinned, and Harry sighed in relief.
He let his veil flare subtly again, watching as the civilians' attention waned away from their little group.
Ko gave him a sharp look. "Was that the same jutsu you used earlier? Before you appeared out of nowhere?"
Harry nodded. "I can hide completely with it usually, but that depends on how much energy I put into it. The Nara seem to sense it better than others, you all have a strong connection to shadows"
"And do you have a connection to the shadows?" Daen smirked, innuendo in his voice that Harry gleefully ignored.
Shikamaru piped up, "We used it to sneak into Iron Country, remember?"
Harry groaned. "Tact, Shikamaru."
Saeko and the guards looked amused and started sniggering.
Harry hissed, "It was necessary at the time!" and dragged Shikamaru to a nearby stall.
Harry leaned down with a mock glare, nudging the boy playfully. "Were you trying to get me in trouble just now?"
Shikamaru laughed, utterly unrepentant. "It's not a big deal! Ninja sneak into places all the time! What do you want from this stall?"
Harry smirked, shaking his head. "We're picking out gifts. One for Fu, and one for Gaara. I was thinking something fun and thoughtful—you think you can help me choose? I'm sure they would like a surprise from their friend."
Shikamaru's eyes lit up with excitement at the opportunity. "Okay! Something for Fu should be bright or funny. Gaara… he might like something quiet. Maybe a book or a puzzle? Or a teddy!"
"Sounds like a good start," Harry said, proud of his son's thoughtfulness.
While Shikamaru eagerly examined trinkets, figurines, and a small wooden puzzle box, Harry drifted toward a selection of books and scrolls under a large awning. A middle-aged couple managed the stall, both with gentle and curious faces.
"Looking for anything in particular?" the woman asked, her tone respectful but friendly.
Harry glanced up from the stack of aged tomes. "Something on the history of the elemental nations, if you've got it. Preferably written from multiple perspectives, not just the victors."
The woman chuckled. "Oh, those are rare. But I have a few that might suit. Some may be biased, but they're still informative."
Saeko, hovering nearby, leaned over Harry's shoulder and pointed at a few titles. "That one's a good read, and that one over there is mostly accurate. Just ignore the glorified nonsense about Lightning Country's conquest history."
Harry made a mental note and picked out four books, already assembling a neat little bundle.
As he turned to the vendor to ask about the price, the woman hesitated, chewing her bottom lip before finally asking, "You're really the dragon rider, aren't you?"
Harry offered a polite smile. "Yes, the only one I know of."
Her eyes widened, then sparkled with recognition and glee. "You're really Maashah-sama! Kami above, you're the one who saved little Toma's leg in Sorai village!"
Harry blinked, slightly stunned by the sudden shift. Remembering suddenly about their little trip through the village after escaping the Earth Capital.
"I'm glad I could help."
Her husband, already stepping closer, added with growing excitement, "You did far more than help! We pass through Sorai about four times a year. We just came through Earth country a few weeks back, it was completely changed. The villagers are building a small school to teach what the apothecarist learned from the books you gave him. Their crops regrew overnight, homes that were shattered were fixed like magic, and every family found food on their doorstep. It was a miracle!"
The woman was nodding furiously. "And they said it was you! They said there was a note on each crate, thanking them for their hospitality and to accept the gifts."
Harry's eyes narrowed slightly in confusion. "Note? I don't remember leaving a note…"
A small, strangled noise came from beside him.
Harry turned slowly, eyes locking onto a sheepish-looking Shikamaru. "Shikamaru… what did you do?"
The boy flinched under his knowing stare and Saeko's amused one. He stared at his boots and then confessed in a rush, "I asked Tilly, Kip, and Lyric to help me leave a note. I didn't want anyone to think badly of you! Especially, after that stupid Daimyo tried to steal you when you healed his son. I thought everyone should know what kind of person you are! That you care about people!"
Harry sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose with his thumb and forefinger. "You didn't… gods, how many other places did you leave notes in?"
"Just that one! I swear!" Shikamaru said quickly, clutching a bug figurine in one hand like it would protect him. "They were nice people, and you fixed everything, and you made sure they were all safe and not hungry anymore. I just wanted them to know that you're the one who helped them!"
Harry looked up at the sky, internally groaning. "I'm amazed the Daimyo hasn't sent someone crawling through Sorai to find me after we escaped from his palace."
The woman at the stall giggled, clearly entertained by the boy's antics. "People love you, Maashah-sama. Most of us thought you were some wandering healer, but the stories are spreading. We've heard many about you and your dragons! And what you did for the Waterfall village!"
Harry offered a modest smile. "I've decided to settle here with my sons. I don't intend to go wandering again for a while."
The woman's lips pursed thoughtfully. "We've heard things… about the Earth Daimyo's son. That he was dying and that a mysterious healer saved him. That the Daimyo tried to keep you locked away in his palace after you healed the boy. The prince has apparently sent his own search parties out to apologise for his father's actions. The best part though? They say he fainted when you got away."
Harry smirks slightly as he remembers the note he left the Daimyo. Then he groans realising that he can't even be mad at Shikamaru because of the example he set.
Harry let out a short laugh. "How unfortunate."
Shikamaru tugged on his sleeve. "Am I in trouble?"
Saeko grinned. "You should be."
Harry shook his head. "I'll let it go. This time. But no more secret note-leaving campaigns, alright?"
The couple chuckled at the exchange, the husband folding Harry's books neatly into some parchment. "It's too late, Maashah-sama. Word has already spread. You're the healer who is blessed by the dragons. And after today—" he tilted his head upward at the still-gliding dragons overhead "—there's no stopping the stories now."
Harry bit his lip, not entirely pleased but he should have expected it. He glanced at Saeko. "How bad do you think it could get?"
Saeko laughed.
"You really shouldn't tempt fate," she warned.
Harry paid for the books and added the little bug figurine Shikamaru had picked out for Fu. The couple seemed delighted by the interaction, and Harry thanked them warmly despite all the things he had found out.
As they moved on to the next stall, Harry didn't realise just how far their words would go.
Merchants were the best—and worst—kind of gossips.
And by the end of the month, it would be known in every major trading post that the mysterious Maashah-sama, the miracle healer, was none other than the dragon-riding Ryūjin clan head of Konoha.
~
Harry sighed as Shikamaru tugged his hand insistently, pulling him along to the next row of market stalls. Saeko fell in beside him.
"What Shikamaru said back there," she murmured softly, glancing back toward the book vendor, "about Earth country—was it true?"
Harry gave a soft sigh. "Mostly. We were running from Earth Country's capital after… well, after things got messy. We stumbled across the village while looking for somewhere quiet to rest for the night. It had been caught between two ninja groups having a battle. The place was wrecked, their healer—if you could even call him that—was still using practices from centuries ago."
His voice lowered. "I overheard someone talking about a boy, no older than five. They were going to amputate."
Harry continued, "But it's not hard to vanish some bone and regrow another. It took a couple of days, but the boy was giggling when we left."
A fond smile touched his lips. "I left some texts behind—basic healing theory, anatomy, advanced first aid—but I wasn't sure they'd be able to make use of them. Hearing they're teaching from them now…" He trailed off, eyes a little brighter.
Saeko smiled. "No wonder you and Tsunade get along so well. You're both natural-born healers."
She leaned closer, whispering conspiratorially, "You'll tell me about that bone-vanishing technique later, yes? Could be a game changer for a few of our retired shinobi."
Harry chuckled. "Thirsty for knowledge, I see."
Saeko grinned unrepentantly. "Always. There's a reason I married a Nara."
Harry smiled and changed the subject, looking down at Teddy nestled in his chest harness. "We should schedule that playdate soon. Get the kids together before the academy starts."
Saeko nodded thoughtfully. "If we can convince Shikaku to introduce Chouji soon, then Ino and Shino can join too. Make it a full day this weekend?"
"I like Ino," Harry said with a grin. "She's a fierce little gremlin. Didn't take any of Shikamaru's sass."
He grinned, tone teasing, "And her dad is ridiculously attractive."
Saeko gasped, then burst out laughing. "Oh no. Shikaku would kill him before that blonde disaster flirts his way into your life."
Harry chuckled. "I'm only half-joking. I don't go for married men anyway."
Saeko gave him a sly look. "That wouldn't be a problem. Inoichi and his wife have an open marriage. Just friends, I hear. There's a reason they only have Ino"
Harry blinked. "That's a thing here?"
"Sometimes, especially in clans," Saeko shrugged. "When the heir doesn't choose a partner, arranged friendships fill the role. You'd be surprised by how often it works."
Harry's mind drifted to Shikaku. "He wasn't so lucky."
The mood dipped briefly, but Saeko lifted it with a grin. "Still, I'd love to see my son's face if you got wooed by someone as pretty as Inoichi."
They both laughed.
"Maashah!" Shikamaru called out, holding up a puzzle box from a nearby stall. "Look! They said its Lightning country design!"
Harry brightened, walking over. "Excellent choice!"
The vendor gaped as Harry paid, muttering something about dragons and miracles. Harry just smiled, then bought a few more items, arms full before Daen kindly took a few of the parcels from him.
Saeko guided them toward her favourite tea shop and the moment Harry stepped inside, he knew he'd made a tactical error.
The place was filled with women. And not just any women—matchmaking, cheek-pinching, gossip-loving aunties and grandmas.
Saeko beamed. "Everyone! This is my future son-in-law!"
Harry choked. "Saeko!"
She just smiled innocently as a dozen women descended, pinching his cheeks and patting Teddy's little feet.
"He's so young!" one cooed.
"So handsome!" another sighed. "I have a niece about his age—!"
Harry stammered, "Shikaku and I haven't even had a date—"
Bad move.
Within seconds, offers of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and distant cousins flooded the room. Clan matriarchs-in-waiting, all suddenly available.
Harry looked toward the door like a man about to make a break for it—only to see Ko smirking, arms crossed, blocking the exit.
Harry mouthed, "Traitor."
Ko just grinned wider.
"Oh!" Harry said sweetly, dragging Shikamaru forward. "You haven't met Saeko's grandson properly, have you?"
Shikamaru looked betrayed. "Maashah, no."
Maashah, yes.
Harry pressed a quick kiss to his forehead. "Sacrifices must be made, little one." Then he gently shoved him toward the women.
"What a drag," Shikamaru muttered darkly as a chorus of awws erupted around him.
Harry just laughed, finally settling at the table. He ordered herbal tea and retrieved Teddy's snacks, offering spoonful's of mashed food to his wide-eyed baby while keeping half an ear on the chaos.
Teddy wrinkled his nose as one spoonful smeared on his cheek, watching his big brother being fawned over with something like horror.
"Shikaaa," he whined, looking up at Harry with wide, scared eyes.
Harry sipped his tea and pat his back softly.
"Poor Maru," he said softly, "it had to be done Teddy Bear."
~
He'd admit it—grudgingly, and only in the safety of his own thoughts—but Harry had a wonderful day.
He felt it in the ache of his cheeks from smiling too much, in the content presence of his sons, and in the faint scent of tea and street food clinging to his coat.
By the time they left the tea shop, the sun had dipped lower, and the dragons had vanished back to the compound.
But despite the warmth of the late afternoon and the laughter echoing from nearby streets, Harry could feel Shikamaru's glare on the side of his face.
The boy walked stiffly, arms crossed, lips puckered into a pout. Harry risked another glance at him, then winced.
"I'm sorry," he said gently.
Shikamaru didn't answer.
Harry sighed. "I'll never do it again."
That earned him a side-eye. He should've stopped there.
"Unless there are too many of them. Then I might need to—"
Shikamaru gasped, scandalised, betrayal blooming across his face like a storm.
"You said you wouldn't do it ever again!"
Harry winced. "Okay, okay—bad joke. I swear on Teddy's next nap, no more throwing you to gossiping old ladies."
The boy grumbled something that sounded like "traitor" and looked away again.
Harry bit back a laugh. "Besides," he added, "it would've happened eventually. Saeko was going to show you off anyway today. She just… showed me off too."
That earned a slight twitch at the corner of Shikamaru's mouth.
Not a smile, but progress.
And truly, Saeko had played him like a fiddle.
After Teddy had finished his snack, he was promptly removed from Harry's arms and absorbed into a gang of what Harry could only describe as ex-shinobi posing as kindly old ladies. They passed the baby around like a sacred artifact, cooing and pinching his cheeks with the ruthless efficiency.
There'd been no escaping after that. Shikamaru and Harry were both dragged into a cushioned booth, surrounded on all sides by chatty elders who wielded gossip like the senbon they hid in their elaborate hair.
Harry had just taken his third cup of jasmine tea when he noticed Daen and Ko were also trapped—Daen faring far worse. The tall Nara had thrived at first, smirking and charming the aunties with sly comments. Until marriage came up. Then his face paled so fast Harry worried he might faint.
But beneath the layers of humour and flirting, there was strategy.
They told him of the village's reactions to him saving the Nara heir, his obvious wealth, and his connection to the Daimyo—how whispers had turned to rumours, and rumours to belief. His dragons, his power, his presence. Some thought he'd bring prosperity, fortune, a new golden age.
Others… wondered if he was just biding his time to burn Konoha to the ground.
Harry had felt the weight of what they shared with him, and for once, he appreciated the gossip.
They were testing the water, giving him a chance to be included into their social circle. These women may not wield kunai anymore, instead they wielded influence and secrets.
So, Harry leaned into it.
He refilled their teacups, nodded thoughtfully at their cryptic suggestions, and even offered a few pointed questions of his own.
He inclined his head respectfully. "Thank you for the information. And the tea. I would be happy to share my home's food and tea with you next time."
They became tamer after that. Their cheek-pinching became less aggressive, their laughter softer.
After what felt like hours—and far too many cups of tea—they all stumbled back into the open streets.
Still, they'd interacted with half the village today. Harry had achieved his goal: a public presence, he felt like he had reassured most of the village with his stunt this morning.
He'd even had to refuse the more… eccentric requests from the ones who got overly familiar.
One woman asked him to bless her shrine. Another thrust her baby into his arms without a word. The third time it happened; Teddy had had enough and tried to bite the poor infant.
Harry declined very politely after that.
Saeko introduced him to a number of retired ninja as they passed through the edge of the ninja shopping district. Many had shops—blacksmiths, clothing, bookstores—and all regarded Harry with a curious respect or suspicion.
To the civilians, he was Ryūjin-sama. Mysterious. Awe-inspiring.
To the ninja?
He was a powerful unknown.
Which meant a potential threat.
So, they tested him.
Subtle questions. Assessing looks. Flirtation. So much flirtation.
Harry tried not to flinch when the third Jounin in an hour leaned in and purred something about interrogation techniques.
Shikamaru, meanwhile, had gone from pouting to outright scowling.
Especially when the fourth Jounin appeared—tall, muscled, wild brown hair and red fang-like triangles on his cheeks. A massive dog padded at his side, tail wagging lazily.
Inuzuka, Harry guessed internally.
The man grinned, nostrils flaring slightly. "You're even prettier up close… and you smell amazing."
Harry's eyes narrowed.
"Your dragons are stunning," the man continued, gaze running over him far too slowly, "but not as stunning as their master."
"I am not their master," Harry said, tone cooling by the second.
The man leaned in, his breath hot against Harry's cheek. "I'm Kenta, Jounin, and available. If you like riding dragons so much, maybe you'd like to ride something else tonight. Ditch the brats and—"
That was when all hell broke loose.
Shikamaru lunged with a low, feral snarl, but Ko caught him by the back of his coat just in time.
Harry stepped forward instead, a slow, cold smile curving his lips as the man attempted to lean in closer.
He stomped his foot once and his magic surged into the ground.
The earth beneath the man exploded in a narrow stone column, rising fast and hard right between his legs.
The man let out a high-pitched yelp as he was launched backwards, his dog barking in alarm and moving to lunge before Harry let out a deep, dangerous growl from his chest that made Teddy whine slightly.
His magic flared out dangerously, and the dog stopped dead, ears flat and tail tucked.
Harry stalked forward, green eyes blazing.
"Who do you think you are, saying things like that in front of my sons?! Do you think being a ninja gives you the right to harass people in public like this?! Do you think it's okay to say such things to anyone?!"
Around them, murmurs rippled.
"That was disgusting!"
"In front of children!"
"Disgraceful…"
"Poor Ryūjin-sama."
"He's such a wonderful father…"
The man scrambled upright, clutching his groin. "Who the hell do you think you are Bitch?! Do you even know who I am?! I'm the Inuzuka head's cousin!"
Harry's smile turned razor-sharp.
"Then I'm sure your clan head will be very interested in your behaviour. I've heard she's quite protective over pups. What do you think she'll say about you harassing me in front of mine?"
The man paled… then, with a snarl, shifted his weight as if to lunge again.
He didn't get the chance.
Shadows erupted across the ground, snapping around his limbs and freezing him mid-step.
"What do you think you're doing?!"
The voice was low, a furious growl that rumbled through the crowd like a warning.
Harry turned his head, and his breath caught.
Shikaku was striding towards them, a bouquet of wildflowers clenched tightly in one hand, the other still locked in a hand sign as his shadows writhed and coiled around the frozen Inuzuka.
The look on Shikaku's face was a storm of fury and protectiveness. His eyes swept over Harry, Teddy strapped against his chest, and Shikamaru, scanning for any sign of harm.
Only when he was sure they were unhurt did his gaze swing back to the man he held bound.
"Kenta," Shikaku said, his voice low and dangerous, "what exactly do you think you're doing? Harassing my family in the middle of the village? Attempting to attack a civilian holding a baby on his chest?"
Kenta stammered, sweat beading on his brow. "I—y-you didn't see what this bitch did to me—"
Harry's fingers twitched.
He very nearly finished the job he'd started.
Kenta froze under the weight of Shikaku's glare, his mouth opening and closing like a fish on dry land.
Shikaku's voice dropped even lower, enough to make the surrounding civilians lean in to catch the words. "I'm starting to wonder if you're even Jounin material, Kenta. If you think this kind of behaviour is acceptable—if you can't recognise where the line is—you have no business wearing that flak jacket."
The man's face went pale, his protests dying on his tongue.
"Apologise," Shikaku ordered. "To all of them."
Kenta glanced at Harry, at Teddy strapped close to his chest, at Shikamaru still bristling beside him. "I… I'm sorry," he muttered.
"Louder," Shikaku snapped.
"I'm sorry!" Kenta barked out, his voice trembling. "To you and the boys, Ryūjin-sama."
Harry said nothing, just raised an unimpressed brow, but the civilians around them began murmuring approval.
"That's the Nara head for you."
"Not sweeping it under the rug, not even for another clan."
"Protecting his own—"
"—and the civilians. That's leadership."
Shikaku gave the man a final, assessing look, then said, "You will report to me tomorrow morning for your disciplinary hearing. Don't be late, Kenta… or I will come find you."
The way he said it made Kenta blanch. "Y-Yes, Shikaku-sama."
The shadows loosened and slithered back into Shikaku's frame. Kenta didn't waste a second; he bolted, his dog trotting after him with its tail tucked.
Shikaku turned immediately, closing the space between himself and Harry. His eyes swept over him, over Teddy, over Shikamaru again, searching for any trace of injury. Only when he seemed satisfied did his attention snap to Ko and Daen.
"And why," he said, his voice deceptively calm, "didn't either of you step in sooner?"
Ko and Daen both stiffened, looking distinctly uncomfortable. "We—" Ko began, but Harry stepped in before they could dig themselves deeper.
"I told them not to interfere unless it was violent," Harry said firmly. "It would have caused a scene if they stepped in for every flirtatious interaction."
Shikaku's eyes flicked to him, and something like reluctant amusement softened the line of his mouth. "You caused a scene anyway."
Harry gave a half-smile. "Not on purpose."
Shikamaru broke the tension entirely by grabbing his father's hand, his face lighting up despite the earlier anger. "Dad, that was really cool! I can't wait to learn how to do that."
Shikaku chuckled quietly and pulled him into his side, ruffling his hair. "One day, kid."
From Harry's chest came an insistent little noise, and they both glanced down to see Teddy squirming, chubby hands reaching for Shikaku. "Sh'kuuu!" the toddler demanded.
Shikaku didn't hesitate, he caught the small hands in one of his own and pressed a gentle kiss to Teddy's knuckles.
Harry's heart gave an entirely inconvenient little squeeze.
He tried not to sigh, but his smile softened without his permission.
And then Shikaku smirked at him, like he'd heard the thought. Harry felt the heat rise in his cheeks immediately.
Before he could recover, Shikaku shifted awkwardly, lifting the slightly broken bouquet of wildflowers still clutched in his other hand. "Uh—I, uh… I thought you might like these. Since you mentioned wanting to brighten up your kitchen table yesterday." His gaze darted away, ears just faintly pink. "I, um, asked Inoichi for advice… hope you like them."
Harry blinked.
When Harry didn't answer right away, Shikaku's mouth tightened, and he began to pull the flowers back. "Never mind—"
Harry stepped forward quickly, catching the hand holding the bouquet. "They're beautiful," he said, his voice warm and utterly sincere.
And then—before Shikaku could react—Harry leaned in and pressed a light, lingering kiss to the corner of his mouth.
The Nara head went completely still, eyes widening slightly.
Then, slowly, he relaxed, rubbing the back of his neck with his free hand as the small blush that crept over his nose and up to the tips of his ears deepened.
Harry just smiled, bringing the bouquet closer to breathe in the scent. His laughter bubbled out when Teddy sneezed violently at the pollen.
Shikaku recovered faster than Harry expected, clearing his throat. "Can I walk you home?"
Before Harry could answer, Saeko's voice cut in dryly from nearby. "And what am I son, chopped liver?"
Harry laughed outright at the way Shikaku groaned under his breath, their banter carrying on as the little group began to make their way home.
The civilians who had been gaping at the sidelines didn't even bother pretending they weren't staring.
Oh, the gossip about an uncouth Inuzuka Jounin getting publicly reprimanded by the Jounin Commander would spread quickly enough—but this? This was better.
They'd all seen the way Nara-sama's eyes had softened when checking over the young lord and the boys, the way the man defended his family, the bouquet clutched in his hand, the awkward yet deliberate way he'd offered it, and then—that kiss.
The flowers were a gift of intent. They had to be.
And it looked like Ryūjin-sama accepted.
By the time night fell, every tea shop and market stall in the village would be buzzing, and the whispers wouldn't just be about dragons anymore.
The Nara head openly courting the new clan head of Konoha right in the middle of the street? Not long after the Nara matriarch died?
Scandalous.