Danzo let out a guttural scream of rage as his hands swept across his desk with a violence that sent neat piles of scrolls and plans cascading onto the floor.
Porcelain cracked, ink splattered across old wood, and a startled root operative in the hallway tensed before wisely fleeing.
Danzo stood amid the ruin of his office, chest heaving.
For a moment, the only sound was the rough rasp of his breath, he clutched at the ornate wood of his desk, the weight of his rage pressing down on his shoulders.
He could feel his age in his bones, the fury burning through the fatigue that had haunted him since the moment that Ryūjin whelp had stood up in the council chamber and, with a few clever words, torn months of planning into worthless scraps.
He closed his eyes and counted, not to calm himself, but to catalogue his enemies, his failures, his new objectives.
Who did he hate most, at this moment?
Hiruzen, the old fool whose back was more bent by the year, who had allowed Konoha to drift into rot and stagnation? The Uchiha, always so quick to righteous anger, whose sharp-eyed patriarch had been just a little too quick to sniff out Danzo's latest plan? Or that little upstart Ryūjin, the child who barely filled out the ceremonial seat he'd claimed and yet had somehow managed to command the room's attention, twist the outcome, and ruin everything.
Danzo straightened slowly, and surveyed the ruined mess of his work, months, months of manipulation, bribes, and subterfuge all undone by a teenager's ego. He had underestimated Hari Ryūjin, there was no denying that.
He would not make the mistake again.
For now, all he could do was plan anew. He ran a gnarled hand over his headband, and let his thoughts settle.
How had it gone so wrong?
He replayed the meeting in his mind, the way Yamaoka had puffed himself up, thinking the proposal was his brilliant idea; the greedy gleam in Tanaka's eyes as he imagined snatching up property in the districts Danzo wanted for himself, the carefully spread bribes, distributed through intermediaries so none could be traced back to him, the merchants and bankers who had lined up in support, eager for their share.
He'd set the stage perfectly.
He didn't even care about the "unsavoury" nature of the Aka and Kuro districts. Sex work, gambling, black-market goods—all were useful. The orphanages he planned to build there would have been the real prize, new, clean, shiny buildings that would lure the street rats and unwanted children off the streets and into his grasp. There, they'd be ripe for the picking and trained, conditioned, sent where he chose.
Some would be lost to "accidents," some sold to visiting dignitaries with expensive tastes. Others, the lucky ones, would become his new ROOT, loyal to only him.
And no one would ever know.
With a fresh orphanage, Konoha could maintain its reputation for charity and generosity, while Danzo's hand would tighten on the underbelly of the village. He'd planned it down to the smallest detail.
His own operatives would hide in plain sight and take over the village one by one, until it was too late for Hiruzen to do anything.
Months of work, all for nothing now.
He bared his teeth, the memory of Ryūjin's words still echoing in his mind.
How dare he speak to Danzo like that. And in public, with the whole council watching.
Danzo's hand shook with the force of his anger. He needed to destroy something—someone—but there was nothing left in his reach that he hadn't already broken. He drew in another slow breath, forcing calm, and sat heavily in his chair.
Composure, he reminded himself.
He was not some emotional child.
He reviewed the events of the past months, each failure stinging worse than the last, all leading back to that brat.
The attack on Waterfall. That should have succeeded. All the intelligence he'd collected had assured him the Hero's Water was barely protected, the shinobi there unmotivated, undisciplined. He'd known the names of every guard, the pattern of every patrol. His own operatives had watched for weeks, confirming it. All he'd needed was the right mercenaries to strike, take the water, burn the village to ash, and bring the spoils back to Konoha.
And, if the Jinchuriki could be taken alive, all the better. He'd dreamed of moulding such a weapon, had even laid plans to spirit the child away for ROOT's use.
But it had all gone wrong.
He still remembered the first garbled reports of a mere teenager controlling the elements like they had never seen before, of a dragon flying above them, scattering them like leaves.
Danzo had not believed it at first.
Dragons were a myth, an old wives' tale, and the idea that a child could control them was even more absurd. Yet the reports had continued, the devastation too great to ignore. When he finally understood that the "Maashah-sama" spoken of in whispers was none other than the new Ryūjin clan head, his fury had been incandescent, only outshone by his greed.
Not only had his operation failed, but Waterfall was now on high alert, their Jinchuriki more closely guarded than ever, and a loose-lipped mercenary had nearly exposed the whole affair. Danzo had dispatched a ROOT agent to silence the fool, but the damage was done. Waterfall's leaders were noisy, already making trouble with their daimyo.
That boy had foiled him without ever knowing it, had in fact ruined his plans more than once.
Danzo's mind flicked to the Kumo exchange. Another disaster. It had started out flawless. Yoshino Nara, nudged by her weak-willed father, had handed over her child to missing-nin for delivery to Kumo.
The mother's viciousness surprised even Danzo, though he'd always considered her a useful pawn in his game. Poisoning the previous Nara head, trapping the heir in an unwanted marriage, and the next generation would belong to ROOT in one capacity or another.
If only the plan had succeeded.
A Nara child in his care would have been invaluable, shadow manipulation, genius-level intellect, and no troublesome family ties. It was a shame that Kumo was always greedy for bloodlines, but he could have turned that greed against them eventually.
Instead, the child had disappeared, lost at sea, or so everyone thought. Kumo raged, but with no evidence of his involvement, their threats were empty.
Danzo himself had assumed the boy was dead.
Until, to his amazement, the Ryūjin lord reappeared, and in possession of the child.
He would have liked to blame the kami, but Danzo was not that superstitious.
If fate itself was conspiring against him, he would just have to work harder.
But then there was today.
Hari Ryūjin had ruined everything.
By speaking.
He'd thought the boy would be too inexperienced to challenge him, too intimidated by the political outbursts. But he should have known, a boy who threatened a Daimyo was not going to fold in front of a handful of elderly advisors.
Danzo's hand thumped on the table, setting a half-cracked inkpot wobbling.
And then the brat had the gall to publicly rebuke him.
The thought of Ryūjin's so-called contributions made Danzo's jaw clench. Those protections would complicate everything. He had spent decades cultivating unseen pathways into every vital artery of the village, and now a single teen had slammed iron doors over them with a smile.
Worse still was the envy that burned in his gut, the thought of having those protections for himself... Even ROOT, his finest tools, had failed to penetrate the brat's compound.
Danzo hated that more than the dragons.
Because power that could not be stolen, infiltrated, or controlled was the most dangerous kind of all.
Couldn't Hiruzen see that?
Everything Danzo was doing was for the good of Konoha.
For its strength.
Its future.
Its survival.
Hiruzen was blind.
Only Danzo had the will to do what was necessary.
Only he saw that Konoha needed unity.
Ruthlessness.
He leaned back in his chair and allowed himself the smallest of smirks.
If Hiruzen would not sanction the strength Konoha needed, Danzo would build it in secret.
Like he always had.
But he would need new alliances.
His eyes narrowed as he picked up a piece of parchment from the floor, smoothing it across the battered desk. He dipped his brush, the motion calm now, as his rage turned to cold calculation.
If the dragons would not bow because of their summoner, then perhaps the summoner could be… eliminated. And his son, just to be sure none of the bloodline survives.
And then the contract would be ripe for the taking.
It was a shame. The boy was powerful, more powerful than Danzo had anticipated.
Danzo began to write, brush strokes swift and sure, detailing his offer for an alliance.
When he finished, he folded the letter and sealed it, a dark smile twisting his lips. He flared his chakra and waited.
It was only moments before a ROOT operative appeared, kneeling at his feet.
"Prepare an operative for a scroll delivery," Danzo ordered, holding out the sealed letter.
"Yes, Danzo-sama," the teen replied, voice devoid of emotion, face blank as a slate. "Where should it be delivered?"
Danzo smiled, cold and thin.
"Amegakure," he said. "Specifically, to Orochimaru, it's time I bring an old pawn back onto the board."
The operative vanished, and Danzo sat back in the gloom of his office, fingers steepled. His rage had dimmed, replaced by the familiar thrum of plotting, the thrill of playing the game behind the shadows.
They thought today was a victory.
But the war was far from over.
Soon, they would see.
Soon, they would all see.
~
Harry woke to a soft pop and the faintest tug at the sheets on top of him.
"Master," came Tilly's hushed voice, the little elf's ears twitching anxiously as she rocked a squirming bundle in her arms. "Little Master wouldn't take his bottle until seeing yous."
Harry blinked his eyes open and chuckled softly at the sight of his tiny son's wriggling form. "Oh, my love," he murmured, voice rough with sleep as he pushed himself upright, "pass him here Tilly."
He reached for Teddy, who let out a soft cry that immediately melted into a coo the moment he was in his arms. "There we are," Harry whispered, pressing a kiss to his soft curls.
The baby made a pleased sound, clutching at Harry's chest.
"Maaaasaa!"
"Thank you, Tilly," he murmured, glancing to the elf who was watching them fondly. "Can you go get breakfast started? I've got him."
Tilly bobbed her head, her eyes crinkling in pleasure. "Tilly will make pancakes! And porridge for the little ones!" she whispered proudly, before disappearing with another soft pop.
Harry smiled to himself, shifting to sit back against the pillows. Beside him, Shikaku slept still, one arm flung over the sheets, his bare chest rising and falling steadily. His hair still loose from last night, spilling across the pillow.
A soft coo drew his gaze downward again. Teddy was staring toward the other side of the bed, little hands stretching out, fingers curling in the air. "Sh'kuu."
Harry's lips twitched. "Shikaku's sleeping," he whispered, rocking him gently. "We have to be quiet, okay?" He smoothed a hand over the baby's stomach.
Teddy giggled quietly.
"Yeah, you think you're funny," Harry murmured fondly, rubbing his thumb over the boy's warm cheek. "You're lucky you're adorable, that's what you are."
He pressed Teddy closer against his chest and let it rumble into a purr, a sound that came as naturally as breathing now. Teddy, in turn, tried to mimic it, tiny chest puffing out a sound that was more giggle than growl.
Harry couldn't help but laugh softly. "Close enough, my little wolf," he said, leaning down to nuzzle at the top of his curls. The baby responded by sighing happily before finally accepting the bottle Harry offered.
While Teddy drank, Harry began humming a lullaby that Pandora used to sing to him and Luna.
He startled slightly when a large, warm hand brushed his arm and came to rest against Teddy's back, helping steady the baby as he drank. Turning his head he found Shikaku awake, eyes heavy-lidded, the barest smile curving his lips.
"Morning," the man rumbled, voice gravelly and low, sending a shiver through his body.
Merlin, I love his voice.
"Morning," Harry whispered back, unable to keep the smile from his voice.
Shikaku leaned in, pressing a kiss to Harry's shoulder. "And good morning to you, little troublemaker," he added, brushing a thumb across Teddy's curls.
The baby immediately let go of the bottle and squealed, arms waving. "Sh'kuu!"
Harry rolled his eyes with a fond huff. "I swear he loves you more than me."
Shikaku chuckled, the sound rumbling deep in his chest. "He's got good taste," he said, grinning as Harry elbowed him lightly. "Besides," he continued, sitting up fully and reaching for Teddy, "you've got him wrapped around your finger. I just make the funny faces."
Harry surrendered the baby easily, watching with a small smile as Shikaku lifted Teddy into his arms and began making exaggerated faces at him. "You do more than that," Harry murmured softly.
"Mm?" Shikaku said absently, making a sound somewhere between a growl and a hum that had Teddy squealing with laughter. "You saying I'm a natural?"
Harry snorted. "He's going to start thinking you're the fun one."
"I am the fun one," Shikaku replied smugly, reaching out a hand without looking and wiggling his fingers until Harry placed the bottle back into it.
"Uh-huh." Harry settled closer, leaning into his side, his head coming to rest on the man's shoulder. "I love watching you with him," he murmured quietly.
Shikaku grinned faintly, and leaned down to press a kiss to Harry's temple before capturing his mouth in a brief, slow kiss that left Harry sighing softly against him.
Of course, Teddy decided that was the perfect time to interrupt.
"Sh'kuu, no!" the baby squealed indignantly, batting at his chin.
Harry pulled back with a laugh, unable to help himself.
"Jealous little puppy," Shikaku teased, grabbing Teddy's hand and pretending to chomp down on it, making exaggerated growling noises. "Nomnomnom! Got you now!"
Teddy shrieked with laughter, wriggling in delight. "You're ridiculous," he told the man fondly, though his eyes were bright. "You're going to spoil him."
"Too late now," Shikaku said with mock seriousness, pretending to examine Teddy's chubby hand.
Harry smiled down, whispering softly in Parseltongue the happy baby. "Is Daddy eating you all up, my little wolf?" he murmured teasingly.
Teddy responded instantly, squeaking and hissing back in the broken mimicry of the language that only Harry could understand.
Then it hit him — Daddy.
The word had slipped out unthinkingly.
He glanced up, half-worried that Shikaku might have somehow understood, but the man was still busy making faces at Teddy, blissfully unaware. Relief flooded him, chased immediately by guilt. He had no right to place that title on the man, but he couldn't deny that he wanted Shikaku to have that place in Teddy's life.
Teddy hissed again, utterly delighted, and Harry returned it.
"I'm feeling a little left out, Sweetheart," Shikaku said finally, smirking.
Harry tilted his head, smiling at him through his lashes. "I thought the Nara were fast learners."
"Teach me something," Shikaku demanded.
Harry chuckled softly. "Alright." He leaned closer, lowering his voice until it was almost a whisper against the man's ear. "My love, I am so very glad I met you."
The words slipped out smooth and quiet, each hiss rolling like a caress. Shikaku's expression softened, his brow furrowing slightly as he listened. "Didn't understand a word," he said, but his tone was amused. "But I think it was something good."
Harry smiled faintly. "I'm sure you could figure it out."
"Could try," Shikaku said, the corner of his mouth lifting. He hesitated for only a second before trying to mimic the sound, his deep voice stumbling over the unfamiliar hisses. "M—my lo-ve."
Harry's stared, eyes wide. He knew he must have looked utterly lovestruck, but he couldn't help it.
"Perfect," Harry whispered.
Shikaku pressed a soft, lingering kiss to his lips, pressing a little harder this time.
Teddy pressed a tiny hand insistently against Harry's cheek, and they broke apart laughing.
"Alright, alright," Harry said, scooping Teddy up when he began clambering over them with surprising determination. "Someone's getting jealous."
"Can't imagine where he gets that from," Shikaku murmured dryly, earning a sharp look and a playful swat from Harry.
He leaned over to press another kiss to Shikaku's mouth. "I'll go get the boys ready, you go shower," he murmured against his lips. "Make sure you have breakfast before you leave."
Shikaku groaned dramatically, flopping back against the pillows.
"You're bossy this morning."
"Twenty minutes, then food." Harry said lightly, giving him one more kiss before walking towards the door.
Behind him, Shikaku watched the pair disappear. He let his head fall back again, a slow, unguarded smile spreading across his face.
And for a long moment, he just lay there, listening to the faint sounds of laughter drifting from across the hall.
~
Harry had been pleasantly surprised to find Shikamaru awake so early, by choice.
That alone was cause for concern, considering that prying him out of bed most mornings was a battle. His son had inherited every ounce of Nara laziness from Shikaku, something that only got worse the more Shikamaru embraced being with his clan once more.
He hadn't realised how often his son used the words troublesome and drag until he returned to his clan.
At first glance, Harry thought Shikamaru had simply fallen asleep sitting upright under his blanket, an impressive feat even for him. But then he heard the high, excited squeal of a girl's voice echoing faintly from beneath the blanket.
He sighed softly, padding silently closer, Teddy balanced against his hip.
Of course it would be Fu.
Shikamaru had managed to master the art of mirror calling far faster than Harry expected, and it had become a regular ritual between the two children. Twice a week, sometimes more, the two would chatter through enchanted glass for hours.
Fu's bubbly voice often carried through the house, rising with excitement whenever Shikamaru showed her something new. And every time, he would huff about "troublesome girls" and swear he wasn't going to do it again… only to call her the very next day. He wrote to Gaara just as much in their shared journal.
Harry found it painfully adorable.
He leaned against the doorframe, shifting Teddy slightly so the baby could see too. The little boy's wide eyes blinked curiously toward the sound under the blanket.
"Sh'ka?" Teddy whispered.
Harry chuckled softly and pressed a finger to his lips. "Shhh," he whispered. "We're going to surprise your brother, alright?"
The baby giggled, pressing his tiny hands over his mouth as if to mimic Harry's gesture.
"Good boy," Harry murmured, lowering him gently to the floor. Teddy stood wobbling for a moment, his chubby hands gripping the edge of Shikamaru's bed for balance.
He took a silent step closer, and then, without warning, swooped down and wrapped his arms around the lump under the blanket.
There was a muffled squeal of surprise.
Harry grinned wickedly, tightening his grip as he dug his fingers into Shikamaru's sides through the covers. "Good morning, sunshine," he teased, voice sing-song.
"Maashaaaah! Stoooop!" came the breathless laughter from beneath the blanket, followed by frantic squirming.
Harry only chuckled, digging in harder, delighting in the unrestrained giggles of his son.
He only paused when another, shriller voice cried from under the blanket, Fu's alarmed voice.
"Pineapple head?! Are you okay?!"
Lifting the blanket with one hand, he revealed a tangled mop of dark hair, wide startled eyes, and an extremely red-faced child. Shikamaru gasped in mock betrayal, clutching his chest as if mortally wounded.
"Fu's gonna think you killed me!"
Harry's grin only widened as he picked Teddy back up, setting him on the mattress. "Not with how loud you squealed," he teased, then reached for the small mirror lying near the pillow.
Fu's anxious little face filled the glass, her bright eyes darting around the reflection.
"Good morning, Fu! Chomei!" Harry greeted warmly.
The girl's face instantly transformed from worry to excitement. "Good morning, Maashah-sama!" she shouted loudly.
Harry laughed quietly. "You're up early," he said.
Fu beamed, rocking slightly where she sat. "We were talking about games!" she explained proudly.
"I see," Harry said, amused. "Well, as much as I'd love to chat, we need to get ready for the day, little one."
Fu's lips puckered into an exaggerated pout, but then she caught sight of Teddy. "Awww! Hi, Teddy!" she cooed, waving enthusiastically.
Teddy squealed, pressing his face close to the mirror and slapping a hand against it.
Fu giggled. "Bye, pineapple head!" she added suddenly before the connection flickered out.
Shikamaru groaned, falling back onto his bed with both hands covering his face. "She's so troublesome."
Harry couldn't help but laugh. "And yet you keep talking to her."
"She won't leave me alone," Shikamaru mumbled through his fingers, his ears turning pink.
Harry threaded his fingers through the boy's messy hair, combing out a few knots gently. "Because she's your friend."
Shikamaru only muttered something under his breath, voice so quiet Harry almost missed it.
"What was that?" Harry prompted softly, his tone light. "You'll have to speak up, hatchling."
With a huff, the boy finally blurted out, "I was nervous about today! I called Fu to ask her what games I should play!"
Harry's heart stilled.
Oh, sweet boy.
He wanted to curse Shikamaru's egg donor, to go back in time and tear down every cruel word, every cutting remark that had ever made his son doubt himself.
Harry swallowed hard and pulled Shikamaru gently against his chest.
"Oh, sweetheart," Harry murmured, stroking his back. "You'll be just fine today. You hear me? You've got nothing to worry about."
Shikamaru's voice came out muffled. "But what if they don't like me?"
Harry leaned back enough to look at him properly, thumb brushing along his jaw. "Ino likes you!"
"Yeah, but—"
"And Shino seems like a lovely boy," Harry continued. "You'll like him, and I'm sure he'll like you too."
Shikamaru frowned, clearly trying to find a counterargument and failing.
Harry smiled faintly, pressing on. "And Chouji and Sasuke will be there too. It'll be good for you to meet all of them. Remember what Itachi said about his little brother? How lonely he was because he didn't have friends his age? Do you think he's not just as nervous for his first playdate?"
Shikamaru shook his head immediately.
"Good," Harry said, ruffling his hair. "Then you'll be wonderful, like you always are."
Shikamaru seemed comforted, though, his small shoulders relaxing. After one last yawn, he pushed himself upright and rushed towards his bathroom, shouting that he had to get ready.
A sudden suspicious smell made his nose twitch.
"Oh, no," he said flatly, lifting Teddy at arm's length. "Does my little wolf need a nappy change?"
Teddy only blinked innocently, his chubby hands grabbing at his sleeve. "Maaa no! Faaaass!"
Harry snorted, trying not to laugh. "That's the unmistakable scent of guilt," he said, mock stern.
Teddy only beamed.
~
Shikamaru had been nervous since he'd opened his eyes that morning.
No matter what his Maashah said, no matter how many times he told himself everything would be fine, the thoughts kept buzzing in his head like Shino's bugs.
What if the other kids didn't like him?
What if he said something stupid?
What if they thought he was weird. Too quiet, too sleepy, too… him?
It was stupid to care, but the words from that woman, his mo— no, not his mother, not anymore, they still clung to him.
"They'll think you're a freak for being smarter than them.""No one likes a lazy child."
"You should be grateful anyone talks to you at all."
Even now, they whispered in the back of his mind. His fingers curled in his skin until he heard something else, the voice that always cut through the noise.
That voice was Maashah's.
You're wrong, it told him gently, the way Maashah always did. They'll love you, just like I do.
He took a deep breath, letting the thoughts disappear.
That quiet reassurance stayed with him, even when they reached the Yamanaka flower shop. He stood half behind Maashah's legs, peeking around the fabric of his long coat, feeling stupid for hiding.
He didn't even notice Ino until she shouted from the back, "Daaaaaaaaaad! Shikamaru and his mom are here!"
Shikamaru froze, cheeks heating instantly.
His mom.
He didn't know why that made him feel all weird inside, but before he could think too hard about it, a blur of blonde barrelled through the doorway and promptly tripped over her own feet.
She went face-first into the floor.
He blinked once.
Then snorted.
Then started laughing so hard he had to grab Maashah's coat to stay upright.
"Shika— Shikamaru!" Ino shouted from the floor, face red as one of the tulips near her head.
Maashah immediately leaned down, his soft voice fussing as he reached to help her up. "Oh, are you alright, Ino?"
She popped up like nothing happened, brushing imaginary dust from her skirt and grinning at him. "I'm fine! Hi, Shikamaru!"
He tried to stop laughing but failed miserably. "You're such an idiot, you don't even know how to walk!"
Her jaw dropped. "What did you just call me?!"
He crossed his arms, trying to look smug. "An idiot."
That did it. She lunged.
Before he could dodge, her hand shot out, grabbed his ponytail, and yanked.
"AH—! Ino!" he yelped, spinning to glare at her as she stuck her tongue out. "You better run!"
The next few minutes were chaos.
Petals flew, pots rattled, and the air filled with shrieks of laughter and angry giggles as they darted around the shop.
It ended only when two large adult hands caught them mid-run. Maashah grabbing his collar, Ino's dad catching her arm. Both kids dangled slightly, still squirming, until the two adults exchanged exasperated grins.
"Looks like they need time-out before the playdate even starts," Maashah teased.
Ino's dad chuckled. "Maybe you could put me in playtime instead, Hari."
The tone made something in Shikamaru's stomach twist. It sounded like when his dad flirted with Maashah.
Wait, eyes narrowing in thought.
Oh. Oh, ew.
Uncle Inoichi was flirting with his Maashah.
Disgust and outrage filled his tiny chest.
Absolutely not.
"Hey!" Shikamaru blurted, glaring furiously at the blond man. "Ino, tell your dad to stop flirting! Aunt Tsunade said people do that when they wanna kiss, and your dad can't kiss my Maashah!"
The shop went dead silent for half a heartbeat, then Ino cackled, throwing her head back like a little witch. "My dad says your dad hasn't married him yet, so your mom is fair game!"
Harry groaned softly, one elegant hand covering his face. He gave Shikamaru a helpless, half-amused glance. "Shikamaru, love—"
He straightened indignantly, glaring at Inoichi again. "Tell Uncle Inoichi to back off, Maashah!"
Maashah sighed dramatically, dropping his hand to point at the grinning blond. "Yeah, alright. Inoichi… knock it off."
That made both men snort with laughter. Inoichi crouched down, his hand landing on Shikamaru's head to ruffle it fondly. "Your dad's a lucky man, kid. You're a good little guard dog."
Shikamaru sniffed, but he couldn't help the small spark of pride that lit in his chest. He was a good son. His dad said so, and Maashah said so too. He stood taller, chin lifting as Maashah smiled softly behind him.
"Alright," Maashah said, clapping his hands. "Time to go, troublemakers."
They left the shop, Maashah holding his hand while Ino skipped ahead, her pigtails bouncing. They stopped by two stalls and then at a bakery where Maashah bought cakes.
Though he teased them by holding the bags just out of reach.
"Little hatchlings must wait for lunch before devouring all the sweets," he said with mock solemnity.
Shikamaru pouted instantly, sharing a look with Ino. She nodded solemnly, a temporary truce in their ongoing battle.
They were plotting an ambush when Maashah suddenly tilted his head, pausing. "Seems some of our guests are early," he said with a small smile.
When they reached the gates, Shikamaru nearly froze.
Uncle Chouza was there and beside him stood a round-faced boy with rosy cheeks.
But that wasn't all.
Across from them stood a pretty dark-haired woman in an elegant kimono, a small boy at her side. The two adults were chatting softly, but when they noticed Maashah and the kids, Chouza waved.
"Shikamaru! Good to see you, kid!" he boomed. "Glad you're home safe, we were all worried sick!"
He looked down, mumbling, "Thanks, Uncle Chouza," even as something inside him loosened.
He had been missed. People really did care.
Maashah's hand squeezed his shoulder gently.
Then Shikamaru tugged at that hand, stepping forward. "This is my Maashah," he announced proudly. "He's the best, but don't be like stupid Uncle Inoichi and flirt with him or I'll have to tell my dad."
Maashah groaned, dragging a hand down his face while the adults laughed. "Forgive him," he said, still smiling faintly. "And please, call me Hari. It's lovely to meet you outside the council chamber."
He turned to the rosy-cheeked boy. "And you must be Chouji," he said warmly. "I've heard so much about you."
Chouza chuckled and patted his son's head. "This is my little butterfly."
Chouji turned red. "H-hi," he stammered, fidgeting with his sleeves.
Shikamaru blinked. He'd imagined Chouji as loud, like his father, but the quiet nervousness felt familiar.
He smiled slightly, deciding then and there he liked him.
He stepped forward, trying to sound as confident as his dad always did. "I'm Shikamaru. And that's Ino."
Ino waved brightly. "Hi! I'm Ino! Do you like flowers?"
Chouji blinked. "Uh… I like food."
Ino looked scandalised. "Food is boring!"
Shikamaru sighed, already tired. "Ino, you eat food every day. You'd die without it."
She huffed. "You're boring too."
He turned his back on her and looked at the other boy that he didn't know.
"Um… are you Itachi's little brother?" Shikamaru asked.
The boy smiled, polite and bright-eyed. "Yes! I'm Sasuke. Big brother said Hari-sama is very nice."
Maashah chuckled softly. "Did he now? I'll have to thank him for the compliment."
Shikamaru nodded approvingly. "Then you're okay."
That seemed to settle it, because the next second, the adults drifted into their own conversation, and the children relaxed until a quiet voice from behind them said, "Hello."
Every single one of them jumped.
Standing there was a man with dark glasses and a high collar, hands resting lightly on the shoulders of a small boy who looked like a miniature version of him.
Shino.
His Maashah beamed instantly, stepping forward. "Shibi! I was hoping we'd see you soon."
"Apologies for the delay," the man said calmly. His hands tightened gently on his son's shoulders. "He was… enthusiastic this morning."
"Can I, Father?" the boy whispered.
Shibi sighed but nodded.
In the next heartbeat, Shino launched forward and barrelled straight into Maashah's legs, giggling softly as he rubbed his face into the dark fabric.
Harry laughed, scooping him up effortlessly. "Hello to you too, little bug."
Shino giggled, tucking himself closer.
Shikamaru blinked.
Huh.
When they'd first met Shino in the streets, he'd been jealous.
Someone else trying to steal his Maashah's attention? Not a chance.
But now, watching the little Aburame curl into Maashah's hold, smiling that shy tiny smile, well… maybe it wasn't so bad. In fact, Shikamaru thought it was kinda cute.
He turned to the others, trying to sound like a proper host. "That's Shino. Be nice, okay? His bugs get weird around Maashah."
Ino went white, mouthing, "Bugs?" while Sasuke and Chouji both nodded solemnly, eager to agree.
The adults chuckled softly as Chouza handed over a large wicker basket over. "Just something as thanks for watching the kids," he said.
Harry's eyes softened. "That's very kind, Chouza. You won't stay?"
The man shook his head. "Got clan business, I'm afraid. But I'll be back around six to pick up my little butterfly."
Chouji waved wildly, his earlier shyness fading. "Bye, Dad!"
"Be good, son!"
Shibi crouched briefly beside his own child, murmuring, "Remember to tell Hari-sama if you feel unwell."
"Yes, Father."
Then he spoke a bit quieter, words only Maashah seemed to hear.
Whatever they were made him nod, gentle but firm, before lifting the boy higher into his arms.
Sasuke's mother took the basket from Chouza's departing hands, smiling warmly. Then they all turned together toward the compound.
The grown-ups' voices drifted behind them. Sasuke's mom praising the gardens, Maashah's soft laughter answering.
"It's beautiful," she said wistfully. "Our compound looks so dull in winter, nothing survives the frost."
Shikamaru puffed up proudly before Maashah could respond. "My Maashah grew them himself!"
The other children gasped, impressed.
Even Ino's mouth formed a little o.
Maashah laughed quietly, brushing Shikamaru's hair fondly. "You flatter me, love."
"It's true," Shikamaru said stubbornly, crossing his arms. "You're amazing."
That made everyone laugh, even Sasuke's mom, who looked utterly charmed.
As they continued walking, Ino began chatting animatedly about flowers again. "You should work with my dad in the flower shop, Hari-sama! You'd make it even prettier!"
Shikamaru almost tripped. "No way!" he blurted before Maashah could answer. "No way is Maashah gonna work with pervy Uncle Inoichi all day!"
"My dad isn't pervy!" Ino shot back, hands on her hips.
"He flirted with Maashah!"
"So what if he did?! Hari-sama is beautiful!"
"You're dad is gross!"
"Is not!"
"Is too!"
Their argument devolved instantly into loud squabbling until Hari, laughing under his breath, placed a gentle hand on each of their heads. "Alright, little hatchlings," he said fondly. "Enough for now. There's plenty of time to fight later."
Ino huffed but leaned into his touch.
Shikamaru pretended not to, but did the same.
~
Despite being nervous that morning, Shikamaru was actually having fun.
Maashah had done some kind of warming charm on all of them before sending them outside, even though it was supposed to be winter, it felt like early spring behind the compound's wards.
Maashah had said to stay close to the house, where he could see them through the big windows.
He sighed dramatically and plopped into the grass, watching his new maybe friends with his chin on his knees.
It was Sasuke who spoke first, looking at him with serious eyes. "Are we gonna play shogi? Big brother said you're really smart, and I wanna beat you!"
Shikamaru perked up immediately, pride swelling in his little chest. "The only one I can't beat is my dad. You don't stand a chance," he said.
Sasuke grinned, eyes gleaming with challenge. "We'll see about that! I beat Itachi once!"
But before they could grab the board, a loud huff interrupted them.
Ino, her hands planted firmly on her hips, as she glared at both of them. "We are not here to play boring old man games!"
Shikamaru blinked offended. "Old man games?"
"Yes!" she said, her voice dripping with impatience. "My daddy says shogi is for people who drink too much and fall asleep!"
Shikamaru frowned, affronted. "But me and dad play shogi all the time!"
"Exactly," Ino said triumphantly, pointing at him.
Chouji just nodded agreeably, clearly unwilling to risk Ino's wrath. Even Shino, quiet and twitchy, seemed to tilt his head like he was trying to understand what was happening, his attention drifting to the house where Maashah was sat talking with Sasuke's mom.
Shikamaru tugged lightly on Shino's sleeve to bring him back. "Hey, you can hug him again later," he muttered.
The boy blinked behind his glasses. "Ah."
Good enough.
Shikamaru sighed. "Fine, fine. What do you want to play, Ino?"
Ino puffed her chest out proudly. "Princess and the Ninja!"
Four blank stares met her.
"…What's that?" Shikamaru asked flatly.
"It's a fun game," she said, already sounding exasperated. "One of us is the Princess and two of you are guards. The others are enemy ninja trying to kidnap me! I have to hide somewhere, and you have to stop them from finding me! But after five minutes I have to shout 'TIME' and my guards have to stop the nin from tagging me!"
Shikamaru scratched the back of his neck. "Fine," he said finally, "but I'm not being the princess."
Ino gasped like he'd said something scandalous. "You couldn't be the princess!" she said. "You don't even have pretty hair!"
Shikamaru snorted. "Do too."
"Do not!"
"Do too! Dad says it's our best feature when its down!"
"Then your dad lies!"
Before he could respond, Sasuke stepped between them, looking oddly diplomatic for a six-year-old. "I want to play it! But Ino should be the Princess."
That seemed to satisfy Ino, who crossed her arms and nodded regally. "Fine! Let's pick teams."
They decided the only fair way was a round of rock, paper, scissors, and one small tantrum from Ino about "boys cheating," they finally had teams.
Shikamaru and Shino were the guards.
Chouji and Sasuke were the enemy ninja.
They sent the "enemy ninja" to the far end of the garden, facing a tree while Shino counted to one hundred and twenty under his breath. Meanwhile, Shikamaru dragged Ino toward the best hiding place he could think of.
Luckily for them, this was his territory.
He knew nearly every corner of their back garden.
The shed and the treehouse were obvious. Too easy. The enemy would go there first. Instead, he led Ino to the very corner of the garden where an old decorative rock cave sat, half-covered in moss. It was small but deep, the perfect hideout.
Ino wrinkled her nose when she saw it. "This is my castle? It's dark and damp!"
"Princesses can't be picky," Shikamaru muttered, glancing back at Shino, who was still quietly counting. "Ten seconds," the other boy murmured softly.
"Fine, fine!" Ino huffed. She climbed inside and posed dramatically, one hand to her forehead. "Go forth, brave guards! Protect your princess!"
Shikamaru snorted so hard. "You sound like Aunt Tsunade when she's drunk."
"I do not!"
Shino tugged his sleeve. "Five," he said simply.
Shikamaru grabbed his hand and darted behind a line of thick bushes. From there, they could just see Chouji and Sasuke turn around, ready to search.
"I saw a shed over there!" Sasuke shouted.
"Hey, wait up!" Chouji puffed as he followed.
Shikamaru grinned at Shino. "Told you they'd go there first."
Shino nodded, voice quiet. "It was the best stra-te-gic ass-um-ption."
"Exactly."
For a while, the game was perfect chaos. Sasuke and Chouji ran across the yard, waving sticks like swords, while Shikamaru and Shino ducked behind bushes and flowerbeds.
Every so often, Sasuke would shout, "Give up, guards! We'll find the princess!"
"No way," Shikamaru yelled back. "We'll never tell you where she is!"
"Then I'll make you tell me!" Sasuke charged, Chouji following.
"Run!" Shikamaru laughed, grabbing Shino's hand again as they sprinted across the grass.
The rules were simple: if the "enemy" tagged you, you had to give them clues, "hot" or "cold", to help them find the princess. Shikamaru ducked behind a low hedge, heart pounding from all the running. He peeked over the top, assuming that Shino had been right behind him.
And he was.
Until a butterfly drifted past, making Shino freeze in delight as the little bug landed gently on his outstretched finger.
"… pretty," he whispered.
Shikamaru blinked, seeing that he was no longer by him. "Shino—?"
Before he could say more, Chouji's triumphant voice shouted, "Got you!"
Shino turned, still smiling faintly as Chouji tapped his shoulder and proudly showed the butterfly to the round cheeked boy.
Shikamaru groaned. "Ah, man—"
He didn't have time to be annoyed because Sasuke was suddenly there, darting out from behind a tree, hand outstretched.
"Gotcha!"
"Not today!" Shikamaru shouted, twisting away at the last second. He ran, laughter spilling out of him as Sasuke chased close behind.
The sound of their giggles filled the yard, Ino's voice echoing somewhere in the distance.
"TIME!"
They all froze mid-stride. Then Sasuke, grinning wickedly, pointed toward the rock cave that her voice had come from.
Shikamaru's stomach dropped. "Ino, run!" he shouted, bolting after him.
But it was too late. Sasuke lunged first, Ino squealed, and the next second they were all tangled in a heap of limbs, laughter bubbling uncontrollably from all three.
Chouji and Shino hurried over, panting.
"Who won?" Chouji asked between breaths.
Shikamaru and Sasuke exchanged a grin. "Tie," they said together.
Ino flopped onto her back with a dramatic sigh. "Princesses never lose."
"Troublesome princesses do," Shikamaru teased, still grinning.
They all laughed, and Shino stepped closer, holding up his hand. The butterfly was perched there still, delicate and vibrant in the sunlight.
"It's pretty," he said softly.
Ino leaned in, forgetting her earlier disgust about his bugs. "It really is," she whispered.
Shino's voice was matter-of-fact as he added, "It's a female. Why? The colouring is brighter."
Chouji crouched beside them. "There's a lot of bugs in the garden!"
Shino nodded solemnly. "Butterflies shouldn't be here in winter. It's too cold."
Shikamaru frowned thoughtfully. "Maashah said he makes sure all the plants and stuff stay alive through winter," he explained slowly. "Maybe that's why."
Ino gasped. "That's amazing!" She picked a nearby flower, twirling it. "Your Maashah makes everything so pretty!"
Shikamaru puffed up proudly. "You think this is pretty? The meadow by the dragons are way prettier!"
That got everyone's attention.
Sasuke's eyes widened. "The dragons live here?"
"Yeah," Shikamaru said with a lazy grin. "They sleep right over there in a cave." He pointed toward the high cliff side that could be seen over the trees.
"Can we see them?" Sasuke asked, excitement slipping into his voice.
"Please?" Chouji added, looking eager but nervous.
Shikamaru hesitated, glancing toward the house. Maashah was still sitting inside, talking to Sasuke's mom.
He really, really wanted to show his new friends the dragons.
He wanted to see their faces light up when they met Nox, to see them realise that his Maashah wasn't just smart and nice, but amazing. Because Nox was his sister, and Altair was his brother, and Lyra and her babies were family as well. Even Rigel was his little brother, just like Teddy.
Everyone needed to see how cool they were.
But then he remembered the rule.
Maashah had been very clear about it.
He wasn't ever allowed to visit the dragons alone.
Not because they would ever hurt him, Nox adored him, Altair let him climb on his tail, and Rigel liked to nuzzle him until he fell over, but because, as Maashah said, "Accidents happen, love."
Shikamaru didn't want Nox to get in trouble if she accidentally hit one of them with her spikes.
He turned back to the group, determination replacing the restless need to show off in his chest. "We can ask Maashah after lunch!" he said brightly. "I see the dragons every day, so maybe we can all go later!"
Ino gasped, clapping her hands. "Really?!"
Sasuke grinned wide, his usual seriousness melting away. "Cool!"
Chouji and Shino both smiled.
Shikamaru let out a long breath of relief.
They weren't upset, they didn't think he was being cowardly.
Instead, they played.
The next hour was filled with laughter. They chased each other through the gardens, hid behind bushes, and invented games as they went.
Chouji talked endlessly about food, describing in mouthwatering detail the rice cakes his mom had made that morning.
Ino wouldn't stop talking about flowers, every other minute she was shoving one under someone's nose, declaring it the prettiest she'd ever seen.
Shino kept crouching in the grass, murmuring facts about beetles and butterflies.
Sasuke bragged about his big brother and his cousin, calling them the strongest ninja in the world, though he scowled deeply when Shikamaru said that Shisui was funny.
"He's not funny," Sasuke said stubbornly. "He's… uncool. But he is fast."
"Fast and funny," Shikamaru corrected, grinning.
Sasuke opened his mouth to argue but couldn't seem to think of a proper comeback.
Shikamaru took that as a win.
By the time they switched to hide and seek, it was nearing lunch time.
Chouji was it, counting loudly under his breath while the rest of them scattered. Shikamaru darted toward the nearest tree, glancing back to make sure no one saw him climb.
The higher he climbed, the smaller everyone looked below. The branches creaked softly, but they held firm.
He grinned to himself, best hiding spot ever.
Or it would have been, if his foot hadn't slipped.
It happened so fast he barely had time to think. One second he was crouched against the trunk, the next his foot slid on damp moss, and his balance vanished.
His stomach lurched.
The branch slipping under his hand, and the world turned upside down.
A shrill scream tore out of him as he fell.
The ground rushing up to meet him.
Panic swallowed everything, he screwed his eyes shut, every instinct screaming for someone, anyone to help!
Then something coiled around his ankle.
A sudden pull, and he was hanging upside down, his small body swaying gently midair.
~
Harry had been having a delightful morning.
Teddy sat in Harry's lap, his tiny fists gripping at his shirt, face buried stubbornly against his chest. His pup had been unusually clingy since the children ran outside, occasionally glaring at the scent Shino had left behind when he had carried the boy.
Harry had laughed softly at that. "Someone's a little jealous," he teased, rubbing Teddy's soft curls.
Mikoto's lips curved faintly. "Far too jealous for one so young."
"Terribly so," Harry agreed, kissing the boy's temple.
Conversation flowed easily after that. Mikoto was quieter than Tsunade or Shizune, but she wasn't shy. There was a certain calm authority to her words that Harry found comforting.
They spoke first of her children, and then of the Uchiha clan's expectations.
"Itachi was always gentle," Mikoto said, her gaze distant. "Quiet. When he was little, he used to feed stray cats behind the compound. He talked about how he wanted to find all of them and give them a home, he was such a sweet child. But after that mission when he was eight…" She sighed softly. "He hasn't been the same. None of them are, once they've seen battle."
Harry's throat tightened. "That's exactly what I fear for Shikamaru."
Mikoto looked up slightly amused. "He's not even at the academy yet, we worry when they graduate."
"I know," Harry said, smiling weakly. "But I dread it. Shikaku promised me he wouldn't push him to finish early, but even twelve feels far too young." He exhaled slowly, eyes flicking toward the window where laughter echoed. "The idea of children—babies, really—carrying weapons makes my stomach turn."
Mikoto hummed thoughtfully. "And in your homeland? Did you have no ninja?"
He shook his head. "None like here. We have law enforcement, both civilian and chakra-trained, but no one is raised to kill or spy like here. The age of graduation is seventeen."
Her eyes widened slightly. "Seventeen?"
He nodded. "And even then, most go into shopwork, seal work, medicine, or politics. Fighting isn't expected. I graduated early but that was only because I'd already taken on my family's responsibilities and was planning to relocate."
Mikoto's brows rose delicately. "Head of your family? So young?"
Harry smiled wryly. "I was the only one left and I became emancipated at fourteen so I could accept my father's Lordship. Circumstance… forced my hand." He sipped his tea, voice softening. "The political field is a lot tamer than the battlefield. I've fought a fair few battles, but I would never wish that life on my children."
Mikoto's expression gentled. "You don't think you would have joined your police force if you had stayed?"
"I've always fought my battles out of necessity than want," Harry admitted with a small laugh. "If I'd stayed in my homeland, I think I'd have stayed home with my children. I'm an academic at heart but if I could spend my days healing and with my boys rather than fighting…" He shrugged. "That would've suited me fine."
Mikoto smiled into her teacup. "A healer and a scholar. I can see it."
Harry chuckled. "My dragons and my boys are plenty of work. I can't imagine adding a full career on top of that. Teddy is already shaping into a mischievous boy, I dread his toddler years. He gets a lot of it from the dragons I think."
At the mention of his name, Teddy perked up. He turned, standing clumsily in Harry's lap and pressing their noses together. "Maaas!" he squeaked, then added proudly, "Nox!"
Harry laughed softly, rubbing their noses together. "Yes, love, Nox. And we'll go see Rigel before bed, hmm?"
Teddy's face lit up with pure delight, even if he only understood half the words.
Mikoto's voice softened. "He's so precious."
Harry turned him around gently. "Teddy, say hello to Mikoto."
The baby blinked shyly, then offered a grin and a coo.
Mikoto smiled, her composure warming. "He has your eyes," she said, admiring the bright green.
Harry's smile softened. "He does." Grateful that Teddy had chosen them before he cast the spell to hide his constantly shifting appearance.
"And his age?"
"He'll be one next month."
Her eyebrows lifted. "Oh! Much younger than I thought. He walks and speaks so well for his age."
"Bits and pieces," Harry said fondly. "He's always been ahead of his milestones. I think he's just determined to grow up too fast."
Mikoto studied the little boy for a moment. "He's very intelligent. You can see it in his eyes."
Harry just kissed the curls on his head.
"Do you plan to have more children?" she asked, feigning casualness as she refilled their cups. "Your wife must be very proud."
Harry hid his smile behind the rim of his teacup, he knew exactly what she was doing.
"I've never had a wife," he said simply. "And never plan to. Teddy's biological mother was… unfit. So I fill both roles now."
Mikoto's lips curved knowingly. "Ah. So you're the mother and father both."
"I suppose so."
Her smirk turned teasing. "Though I've heard rumours about the Nara clan head. Perhaps you only need to play mother if Shikaku-sama is willing to play father."
Harry nearly choked on his tea. He felt the heat climb his neck and shot her a look. "Mikoto," he said warningly, though there was no real bite to it.
She laughed softly behind her sleeve. "Forgive me. I couldn't resist. It's simply that I have heard so many rumours surrounding you both, but to see your clear affection for him, I now know them to be somewhat true."
Harry's voice gentled, mouth curving into a smile. "Shikaku is a good man. And an even better father. Teddy would be lucky to have him as one, but I wouldn't force that on him unless he wanted it."
"Force?" Mikoto said with an elegant snort. "From what I've heard, you'd have to fight him off first."
Harry groaned, face in his hands.
She chuckled, but her tone softened. "It's a shame you're not a woman. The two of you would make beautiful children."
Something in his chest clenched painfully. "Yes," he murmured quietly. "It is a shame."
He forced the thought away with a sigh. "Teddy and Shikamaru are enough for me," he said finally. "Maybe one day, I'll adopt again. But for now… I'm content."
Mikoto's gaze softened. "Any child would be lucky to have you."
Harry smiled faintly. "You're kind to say so."
Just then, the wards flickered softly against his senses telling him that someone had entered the compound.
"Ah," he said, setting down his cup. "Saeko's here."
Mikoto's eyes brightened. "Saeko-sama? She's a lovely woman. We've met in the archives many times, she's quite the historian."
Harry smiled warmly. "She is, in fact she's taught me more about Konoha than any of the books I read have."
Laughter echoed from the garden, a mix of giggles, shouts, and the unmistakable sound of Ino bossing someone around.
Harry smiled to himself, glancing toward the window just as Shikamaru darted behind a tree, hiding from sight. They were playing tag again.
Teddy wiggled in his lap, drawn by the noise.
"Do you want to play too, pup?" Harry murmured, kissing his hair before setting him gently in the playpen he'd pulled near the table. The little boy stood immediately, gripping the side and bouncing with excitement.
"Sh'ka! Sh'ka!"
Harry chuckled. "Yes, your brother's out there. Maybe after lunch you can join him, hmm?"
Teddy babbled something in reply, already half-distracted by his toy dragon.
Mikoto sipped her tea, her smile soft. "You have a very peaceful home, Hari-sama."
Harry sighed and shot her a look, "If I can call you Mikoto, then you will call me Hari."
Saeko's familiar voice echoed from the front door then.
"Hari! Where are my grandsons?"
Harry smiled, lifting his head from where he was putting Teddy's toy dragon back into the playpen. "Back dining room, Saeko!" he called, his voice carrying easily.
She swept into the room like a storm. Her hair was pinned neatly despite the speed of her entrance, and her eyes immediately softened when they landed on the baby in the playpen.
"Teddy, my darling!" she cried.
The little boy squealed, his curls bouncing as he grabbed at the edge of the pen, babbling something that sounded suspiciously like "Gah-ma!"
Harry snorted. "You're creating bad habits, you know that? He's starting to think every time you visit he gets new toys."
Saeko scoffed dramatically as she swooped down to lift Teddy into her arms. "And why shouldn't he? Have you seen how cute he is?"
"I have," Harry said dryly, crossing his arms. "Every day, in fact. Which also means I know just how mischievous both of my sons can be."
Teddy gurgled, reaching up to pat Saeko's cheeks, his little fingers curling against her skin as he cooed happily. Saeko's stern matronly expression melted into pure adoration as she nuzzled his tiny nose.
"There's no such thing as spoiling too much," she said firmly, bouncing the baby as she turned toward the other woman in the room. "Ah, Mikoto! It's been far too long!"
Mikoto rose gracefully to greet her, setting down her cup. "Saeko-sama. You look as radiant as ever," she said with a warm smile. "I must visit the archives again soon, motherhood has kept me far too busy these last years."
Saeko laughed lightly. "It never gets calmer, trust me. You'll think you can rest when they're older, then they start climbing trees and setting things on fire."
Harry opened his mouth to make a dry remark and froze when a sound cut through the air like a blade.
A shrill, terrified scream.
For a heartbeat, everything stopped.
Then Harry's chair scraped back violently. The tea sloshed forgotten onto the floor.
"Shikamaru!"
He was out the door before the others could move, the sharp tang of fear burning in his nose. His heart thundered as he sprinted through the gardens, his mind already cycling through possibilities, magic flaring, the wolf under his skin surging forward in panic.
"Shikamaru!" he shouted, his voice raw. "Answer me!"
The children were already gathering near the old oak at the edge of the yard, their faces pale and eyes wide. Sasuke looked ready to cry. "We can't find him!" he said, voice shaking. "We were playing hide and seek and—"
Then, faint but clear—"Maashah!"
The sound was strangled, panicked, but alive.
Harry's blood roared.
He reached the tree in seconds and stopped cold.
Shikamaru was there alright.
Or rather, hanging there, dangling upside down several feet off the ground, a thick vine coiling around his leg. Flowers were blooming from it even as he watched, spreading delicate white petals.
For a single stunned heartbeat, Harry could only stare.
Mikoto and Saeko caught up seconds later. Both gasped, hands flying to their mouths.
The other children clustered behind them, wide-eyed.
Harry exhaled slowly. He wanted to close his eyes, to curse at fate for choosing now of all times but his son's frightened little voice snapped him out of it.
"Maashah?"
"Hold on, love," Harry said softly. "I've got you."
He gathered the air around his feet, the familiar sensation of levitation coming as easily as breathing, and rose smoothly from the ground.
Gasps rippled through the group behind him as he ascended, robes fluttering lightly around him.
He ignored them, his focus solely on the wide brown eyes staring down at him.
Shikamaru looked both embarrassed and relieved, his dark hair hanging loose from its tie as he swayed gently in the vine's hold.
Harry crossed his arms midair, arching a brow. "And just what," he asked sternly, "did you think you were doing climbing a tree by yourself?"
Shikamaru squirmed, cheeks red. "I—It was the best hiding spot," he mumbled, his voice small. "But… Maashah, can you get me down now?"
Harry's heart unclenched at the sound of that whine, fear and embarrassment tangled together. The wolf in him purred with relief that their cub was okay.
"Hmm," he said, pretending to consider. "You know, it wasn't me who made those vines."
That made Shikamaru blink in confusion. He twisted awkwardly, following the curve of the thick vine as it coiled around his leg.
"Did… did I do that?" he asked, voice filled with awe.
Harry's smile softened. He reached out and cupped his son's upside-down face in his palms. "It seems the blood adoption gifted you more than my magic after all," he said gently.
Shikamaru's grin broke across his face like sunlight, the flowers seeming to grow all the brighter for it.
"That's so cool!" Shikamaru whispered, completely forgetting his fear. "I made plants!"
"Focus, please," Harry said dryly, though he couldn't quite hide his own amusement.
"Alright, love. Let's get you down. This vine is yours, you're connected to it. All you need to do is ask it to let go."
Shikamaru frowned in concentration, eyes narrowing as he stared at the vine. "Thank you for saving me," he said earnestly, his little voice trembling slightly. "But you can let me go now. Maashah will catch me."
There was silence at first. Then the vine loosened, curling back around the tree trunk instead.
Shikamaru dropped into Harry's waiting arms with a startled laugh.
Harry held him tightly, one arm cradling his back, the other smoothing through his messy hair as he descended slowly, his feet touching the ground with barely a whisper.
Gods, that scream.
For those few heartbeats, he'd thought, no, he couldn't even think it. Every instinct in him had howled, ready to tear apart anyone who dared hurt his pup.
Shikamaru's little hands fisted in his robes. "I'm fine," he muttered, cheeks pink. "You can put me down now."
Harry just tightened his grip. "Maybe I don't want to."
"Maashaaah," Shikamaru whined, voice muffled against his chest.
That earned giggles from the watching children, and from Harry himself. "Fine," he said finally, loosening his hold. "But you're never to climb a tree again without me or your father there, understood?"
Shikamaru nodded sheepishly. "Yes, Maashah."
Behind them, the other kids erupted into excited chatter.
"You were flying!" Ino shouted.
"And Shikamaru made plants!" Sasuke added.
"That was amazing," Chouji said breathlessly.
Shino, ever quiet, simply walked up and patted Shikamaru's back once. "It's okay now," he murmured, and then he stepped closer and hugged them both.
Harry laughed softly and bent slightly, wrapping his free arm around Shino's small shoulders. "Thank you, sweetheart."
Behind him, Saeko was making her way over, Teddy wriggling furiously in her arms. The baby's face was scrunched up in outrage at being left out.
"Maas!" he shrieked, reaching out. "Sh'ka!"
Shikamaru laughed, wiping at his cheeks as Teddy practically launched himself from Saeko's hold into Harry's arms. The baby immediately tried to climb over Harry to get to his brother, babbling fiercely and rubbing his little face against Shikamaru's neck as though marking him.
"Alright, alright," Harry said between laughs.
Teddy just burrowed deeper, chanting "Shika, Shika, Shika" with single-minded devotion.
Saeko let out a shaky breath, one hand pressed to her chest. "You nearly took ten years off my life," she said to Shikamaru, voice still trembling
Harry gave a wry smile. "Believe me, Saeko, mine too."
Then her expression shifted into excited caution. "Hari, did I really see what I think I saw?"
Her eyes flicked toward the tree, to the vine still curling along the bark.
Harry exhaled slowly, letting his hand smooth down Shikamaru's back as he answered. "I didn't expect it so soon," he admitted. Then a proud smile bloomed on his face, lighting his features. "But yes. It seems our boy inherited more than just the Ryūjin chakra. He has the Peverell gift too."
Saeko's lips parted in wonder before splitting into a beaming smile. "Mokuton," she breathed. "Just like you."
Harry nodded, pride shimmering in his eyes. "Just like me."
Teddy squealed, reaching out toward the tree as though he understood. Saeko laughed through her lingering tears, tickling his tiny foot. "Maybe you'll grow flowers too, little puppy."
He cooed back at her, delighted.
For a moment, the three of them forgot anyone else was there, grandmother, mother, and sons wrapped in a bubble of quiet pride.
Then Harry remembered who was watching.
He glanced up sharply at Mikoto, who had remained silent through the entire scene, her eyes watchful and far too perceptive.
He shifted slightly, his magic flaring subtly around him, an aura of warning that prickled against the skin.
"Mikoto-san," he said, "I've enjoyed our time together today. Truly. I'd like to make it a habit, if you'll allow it."
Mikoto blinked, then nodded slowly. "Of course—"
"However," Harry continued softly, "if word of what you saw today spreads through the village…" He tilted his head, eyes gleaming like a predator's. "I will show you exactly why the Daimyo feared me. And exactly how far my battlefield talents go."
For a long moment, Mikoto simply looked at him then inclined her head with solemn grace. "You have my word, Hari-sama. I will not breathe a word. Nor will Sasuke."
Her lips quirked faintly, her composure sliding back into place. "A scholar indeed," she murmured teasingly, the humour gentle but sincere.
Harry huffed a small laugh and let the tension ebb away. "Touché."
As they all turned back toward the house, the children darting ahead with renewed energy, the last of his fear finally began to fade.
Harry's shoulders finally relaxed.
The knot of terror in his chest loosened, replaced by something fierce and blazing.
Pride.
Because his son had called to nature, and it had answered.
Because Shikamaru was truly his, blood, bond, and magic intertwined.
The wolf in him howled in joy, exultant, proclaiming their pup's strength to the world.
But the man felt something colder beneath that pride.
A sliver of fear.
Because he knew what the Mokuton meant here.
It was a gift once revered, then stolen from little Nawaki to try and recreate.
He had seen the monsters who coveted that power, how far a man like Danzo would go to possess it.
His eyes hardened, the smile fading into something grim.
He would not let that monster touch his children.
If Danzo so much as looked their way, Harry would make sure he never saw anything again.
He's sure Shikaku would agree to speed up Danzo's execution when he found out that Shikamaru had the Mokuton.
It's a secret that would get out into the village eventually.
And such a treasured gift could hardly escape the notice of monsters.
And there were far too many already close to home.