Dreams

He smiled as he entered the clearing. This was his place where he could go when he needed to be alone or just to think. No one would ever look for him here. Although it was odd that he was dreaming of it since usually his dreams were filled with darker things, ever since that day. He suddenly froze, every sense alert as he searched the clearing. He wasn’t alone. Finally he spotted another figure at the other end of the clearing, standing with his back to him, he was positive the figure was male. If it weren’t for the fact that his brother was shorter he would have thought he was dreaming of him, that and his little brother would never be seen wearing such rags. Cautiously he moved silently closer but the figure didn’t seem to notice him. When he was finally just out of reach he purposely stepped on a twig, snapping it. The other male spun around, backing away automatically. He found himself staring into the greenest eyes he’d ever seen on a human, eyes that held fear, pain and strength.

“What are you doing here?” He growled out. The other didn’t even flinch but studied him in return.

“Dunno. Last I checked I was in bed at my families so I’d say I’m dreaming. Not the sort of dream I usually have but so far it’s a nice change.” He didn’t recognise the boys, for that was what he was, accent which was odd.
“Question is, am I dreaming of you or are you dreaming of me?” He tilted his head to the side and smiled as he said it, eyes now holding only an almost childish curiosity.

“Who are you?”

“Oh, sorry. Harry Potter, pleased to meet you.” He stared at Harry, why wasn’t he afraid of him? Everyone one was afraid of him now.
“Well?”

“What?” he snapped.

“I told you my name, only fair you tell me yours.”

“Uchiha Itachi.” He blinked, why had he answered?

“Nice to meet you Itachi. From the way you gave your name I’d guess you’re from Asia somewhere?”

“Asia?”

“Of course that’s assuming we’re even from the same world. We may not be, who knows when magic’s involved.” Itachi just stared at the boy. Was he mad or something?

“Magic?”

“Yep, magic. I am a Wizard after all and with those eyes I doubt very much you’re a muggle. Of course your world may not have wizards.”

“I’m Shinobi.”

“Shinobi?”

“Ninja.”

“Oh. Neat. I’ve never met a ninja before. Don’t think they exist anymore. So maybe you’re from the past? But your clothes look fairly modern.”

“Do you always talk so much?” Harry grinned at him.

“Not usually. Don’t know why I’m being so talkative.” Harry suddenly frowned.
“I think my Aunt’s calling me. Maybe I’ll see you again, it was nice meeting you Itachi.” With that the boy faded away, leaving Itachi alone in the clearing that in real life was only a days travel from Konoha, the home he could never return to.

Harry sat up, fumbling for his glasses. That had to have been the oddest dream he’d ever had. He checked his scar out of habit, no pain at all. So that ruled out some twisted game on Voldemorts part. But something told him that had not been a regular dream and that he’d see the cold young man again.

“Hurry Up Boy!” He winced at his Aunt’s shout and scurried out of bed. In another month he’d be back at Hogwarts for his sixth year and then he’d only have to come back here for one month before he was free.

“You’re quiet.” Itachi glanced up at his partner and friend. He was the only person alive beside himself who knew the truth about his past.

“Dreams.” He answered softly.

“Dreams? Not nightmares?”

“No. There’s a boy, but I know I’ve never met him. He has the greenest eyes I’ve ever seen.”

“Careful, sounds like you like him.” Itachi snorted.

“Hardly, the boy is a dream and even if he wasn’t he’s clearly mad.”

“If you say so.” Kisame went back to caring for his sword, leaving his friend to his thoughts for now. Itachi sighed in frustration. The dreams didn’t come every night but they were frequent. Most times they didn’t even talk, just sat in the clearing staring up at the sky silently. To his surprise he’d found himself almost looking forward to seeing Harry, his presence was soothing and he never pressed him to talk. Harry would sometimes talk about his day or a letter he’d received from a friend and Itachi would listen, feigning disinterest.

“You alright mate?”

“Sure. Why?”

“You’ve been quieter than normal, that’s all. Everyone’s noticed.”

“I’m okay Ron, just have a lot on my mind.”

“Oh. You-Know-Who?”

“Amongst other things. I’m fine, I promise. How about a game of chess?” Ron grinned.

“Get ready to be beaten mate.” The two teens laughed and set the board up. Sure enough, Harry was beaten within ten minutes but they were a fun ten minutes. He smiled as Hermione launched into a rant about homework and the NEWTs, even though they still had over a year to study for them.

“I was starting to think you weren’t coming back.” Harry smiled at Itachi as the other man spoke.

“I think we only come here when we aren’t exhausted. Thanks to Snape that’s what I’ve been this last week. Honestly, how he expects me to learn anything when all he does is shout ‘clear your mind’ at me I have no idea.” Harry threw himself down on the lush grass, sighing in contentment.
“Does this place exist in your world?”

“Yes. It is where I go to think.”

“Or to be alone. I have a place like that, but its nothing like this.”

“Why aren’t you afraid of me?” Harry rolled over so he could look at his companion. Itachi was looking away from him.

“Should I be? If you were going to hurt me you would have done it that first night.”

“I could kill you.”

“Probably, then again I don’t know if we could hurt each other here. Besides, according to some stupid half-baked prophecy there is only one person who can kill me and I’m the only one who can kill him. Really sucks. What chance does a sixteen year old, half trained Wizard have against the darkest Dark Lord my world has seen in millennia?”

“What?” Itachi turned to look at Harry. The way he’d said that, as if he was discussing the weather, not his possible death.

“The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches…Born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies…And the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not... And either must die at the hands of the other for neither can live while the other survives…The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies… Nice huh? Could have been me or another boy but Voldemort picked me. Maybe because of the similarities between us, both halfbloods. He’s been after me since I was born. He killed my parents when I was one and tried to kill me but it backfired and he was left as a spirit for thirteen years. He got his body back two years ago and went straight back to killing. Every year since I started learning magic he’s tried to kill me and so far I’ve been lucky, but how long can my luck last?” Itachi simply stared at him. Okay, so he wasn’t the only one to have a bad life. Maybe…maybe that was why they were here? To help each other, even if it was just by listening. Itachi took a deep breath; maybe he could trust Harry with his own story.

“I come from one of the hidden villages, and trained all my life to be a Shinobi…”

Itachi looked around the clearing for Harry but couldn’t see him. He frowned, he only ever came here when Harry did so where was he? A low, pained moan answered that question and had him running across the grass. He dropped to his knees beside his friend and carefully rolled him onto his back.

“Harry what happened?” Green eyes flickered open but didn’t focus on him.
“Harry say something.” Itachi began running through the hand seals for a healing jutsu even as he spoke. He didn’t know if it would help but he didn’t know what else to do. Besides Kisame Harry was the only friend he had, if the other teen was truly real and not something his mind had created.

“Voldemort.” Harry groaned and tried to get away from Itachi.

“Don’t move Harry, you’ll make it worse.

“No, stay away.” Itachi flinched and withdrew his hand.
“Won’t tell.” He blinked in confusion before it hit him, Harry really wasn’t seeing him, he was stuck in the memory of what had happened to him or even what was happening. Was it possible for Harry’s mind to have retreated here while under torture?

“Harry its me, Itachi. I won’t hurt you. Come on, focus on me.” He slowly reached out and kept his hand on Harry this time even when he tried to flinch back.
“Focus on my voice Harry, you’re in the glade with me. No one can hurt you here. Come back Harry.” He watched, relieved as Harry’s eyes began to focus on him.

“Itachi?” Harry coughed and groaned, clutching his ribs.

“I’m here Harry.”

“It hurts so much.” Now that Harry wasn’t trying to get away from him he tried the jutsu again and relaxed as it seemed to work. Harry sighed in relief and uncurled a bit. Itachi froze as the younger teen moved so that he was laying half in Itachi’s lap.
“Don’t let go.” Harry murmured and Itachi cautiously wrapped his arms around the slender form, realising that Harry needed the touch to stay grounded.

“What happened?”

“Voldemort attacked Hogsmeade while the school was there. There were so many screams. Ginny!” Itachi tightened his grip as Harry began to sob.
“She was just laying there, she wouldn’t get up. I tried, I really did but…”

“You were too late to do anything for her.” He felt Harry nod. He knew Harry had seen death before but not like he had or in the same quantities.

“One of them must have seen me, next thing I remember is waking up in front of Tom. They chucked me in a cell sometime later and then I was here. I don’t want to wake up Itachi.”

“You’ll have to Harry or you won’t be able to escape. I know it hurts but you have to fight. In some ways you remind me of Sasuke, both stubborn and strong. You will escape Harry because you have to.” Harry nodded again.
“I managed to heal the worst of your injuries but I don’t know how that will translate in the real world.”

“S’okay. I’m used to beatings. I’ll manage and I will escape.” Itachi smiled slightly as determined emerald eyes met his. Harry would escape, or die trying.

“Don’t drop your guard!” Itachi yelled causing Harry to glare at him. He grinned at the other teen, his glares weren’t at all scary but he wasn’t going to say anything. Last time he had he had spent the rest of the night as a newt, not an experience he wanted to repeat. After Harry had recovered from his time in Voldemort’s hands Itachi had offered to train Harry in the Shinobi arts and after three nights thought Harry had agreed. After all, it wasn’t like his own people were giving him the training necessary to kill Tom and hopefully survive the experience. And it wasn’t like Itachi could get in any more trouble than he was already in with his village for teaching Harry things only a leaf nin should know. While Harry was fast for someone with no training his physical condition had been sorely lacking. That was the first thing he had decided to fix. He had designed an easy to follow training program for the clearing and the real world that hopefully wouldn’t draw too much attention to Harry. He’d even convinced him to sign up for martial arts lessons. Apparently it had not been a fun experience convincing his relatives to let him do so. Itachi was itching to meet said relatives and show them what he thought of the way they treated Harry but that was impossible, at least as far as they knew. His grin widened as he hurled a handful of shuriken at Harry who managed to dodge them all although more through luck than skill.

“Slave driver!” Harry yelled before dodging another attack. He smirked as Harry went back to his workout. He knew he was pushing him hard but he didn’t have a choice. Harry never spoke of what had been done to him in the three days it took for him to escape but it had to have been bad. Harry had never feared him before but now there were occasions when he would see Itachi’s eyes and flinch back. They only had a few more days before Harry’s birthday and the day when his relatives would kick him out. He had to be able to better defend himself without magic before then, even if it meant simply being able to outrun his attackers and being to fast to hit.

Two hours later he finally let Harry stop and the other teen collapsed into the grass next to him. They sat in silence for a while, just enjoying the time away from reality and their lives. Itachi suddenly frowned as he became aware of a voice calling him.

“Itachi?”

“Kisame’s calling me, he sounds worried.”

“Better wake up then. See you next time.” Harry smiled as the glade faded and Itachi woke up. He sat up and groaned. Hunter-nin, joy.

“Well, that was fun.” Itachi shot Kisame a glare.

“You nearly died and I had to carry you out of there. Exactly how does that count as fun?” Itachi sat back and surveyed his handiwork.
“You won’t bleed to death anytime soon. Still, we should stay here for a few days to let you heal.”

“Sure you don’t want to stay just so you’re not too tired to meet up with Harry?” Kisame asked slyly.

“You’re not too badly hurt for me not to hit you.”

“Face it Itachi, you like the kid.”

“He’s only two years younger than me. Besides it’s his birthday soon.”

“Not like you can get him anything.” Kisame shrugged and then winced slightly. Okay, maybe he had been a little careless against those hunters but it had been fun.

“So you don’t think I’m crazy?”

“Itachi you’ve been crazy for years. Do I think you’ve gotten crazier? No. If anything you’ve been calmer since the dreams started. Are the dreams actually real? Who knows?” Itachi started at his friend in shock.

“Thanks, I think.”

“No problem, now get to sleep. Harry’s probably worried.” Itachi threw a rock in Kisame’s general direction since he didn’t actually want to kill him.

“I’m going to try to teach you a jutsu tonight.” Harry sat up from where he’d been laying in the grass, trying to catch his breath after his usual workout.

“Really? Do you think it’ll work?”

“You managed to find your chakra when awake so I don’t see why not. I’m going to teach you henge. From what you’ve told me it seems to have the same basic results as your glamour magic. It will help you stay hidden once you leave home.”

“That’s great! When do we start?”

“Now.”

“I did it! No one suspected a thing. It was brilliant! Thank you so much!” Itachi froze as Harry threw his arms around him in an impulsive hug. Except for when he’d been tortured they had rarely touched outside of training. Itachi forced himself to relax and hugged Harry back. He knew that like him Harry had not received a lot of physical affection as a child so he couldn’t push him away. Sasuke had been the most physical of his family and Itachi had tolerated it, pity these days it was his fists that Sasuke wanted to use on him. He’d just ignore that little voice in his head that sounded suspiciously like Kisame that was telling him he wasn’t pushing him away because he actually really liked the hug.

“So what happened?” Itachi stepped back and sat down, Harry flopping gracelessly down beside him.

“I snuck out when Tonks went on duty as my guard, it was easy. Once I was away from Privet Drive I used henge to change my appearance and to look older. Caught the Knight bus to Diagon Alley and went straight to Gringotts. Not even the goblins could see through my disguise so a wizard has no chance. I had to drop it in private to prove my id. Turns out Sirius has a will and that I’m his heir, something I should have found out last year! Get this; Dumbledore’s been funding his little group using my inheritance, the Potter’s and now the Black’s. I really need to talk to him about that, preferably in front of Rita Skeeter. For now I’ve blocked him from all of my accounts. Then, on my way to muggle London I saw Ron and Hermione. I decided to eavesdrop for a bit, very Slytherin of me I know. But watching Hermione punch Ron like that was brilliant! His being a lying bastard I could have done without though. Apparently Dumbledore’s been paying him and his family, once again from my money, to be my friend and fill him in on everything I do. He let slip to Hermione so she let her fist slip, right into his nose. Good to know I’m not a total failure when it comes to judging the loyalty of friends. I listened for a bit and then headed for the real estate. I am now the proud owner of a penthouse apartment in a lovely area of London. I move in on August first. How was your day?” Itachi stared at Harry in shock, still trying to sort out exactly what Harry had said. So it came as a bit of a shock when he suddenly broke down into tears.
“How could Ron do that to me? I would have died to protect him and all he cared about was my money!” Itachi hesitantly reached out and pulled the distraught teen into his arms, letting him cry and scream as much as he needed to.
“If there’s a way to get to your world I’ll find it! I just can’t take this much longer.” Itachi smiled slightly at that. Life would certainly be interesting if Harry where around, that was for sure. It was a good thing he knew of no way to Harry’s world or he would really be guilty of a clan massacre, just not the one he was accused of.

“Happy Birthday!” This time Itachi initiated the hug and Harry smiled brightly at him. His training was coming along well and in a few hours he would leave his ‘family’ behind forever. Life for Harry was definitely looking up.

“Thanks! So, can I have the night off from training as a present? We could just talk or something.” Itachi made a show of thinking about it before nodding. Harry had been working hard and one night wouldn’t hurt.
“Want to hear what I set up for my loving normal family?” Harry’s grin was pure evil.

“Will I hear their screams from my world?”

“It’s possible. Good thing I plan to be long gone before they get up. The twins sent me a ‘care package’ so I decided to put it to good use caring for my family. By the time I’m finished with them their beloved ‘normality’ will be nothing but a fond memory.” Both snickered slightly at that. They sat quietly in their usual positions, Itachi leaning against one of the trees lining the edge of the clearing and Harry lying flat out on the grass beside him. Itachi smiled as he listened to exactly how Harry had booby trapped the house and felt proud, some of those techniques he’d taught the Wizard himself and if they could get a ninja then Harry’s relatives didn’t stand a chance. He didn’t notice when his hand dropped down to gently stroke Harry’s hair and Harry didn’t say anything to bring it to his attention.

“Itachi? Where are you?” Harry couldn’t hide the concern in his voice. It had been almost a week since he’d last been drawn into the glade and now he was here but there was no sign of his best friend and trainer.

‘What would you do to help him?’ Harry looked around wildly, trying to see who had spoken but he was alone.

“Who’s there?” Harry mentally conjured a kunai and got ready to fight if necessary. It was odd that he called a ninja weapon instead of preparing a spell but using magic here felt weird.

‘You hardly need that with me young Gryffindor.’ There was a flash of flames and Fawkes was hovering a few feet in front of him.

“Fawkes? How? What is this place really?”

‘There is no time, your friend needs your help.’

“But how can I help? I don’t know where he is!”

‘Lie down and sleep. The path between you lies in dreams, so it is through dreams that you can reach him.’ Harry stared at the phoenix for a few seconds before deciding to trust it. He lay down in the grass under their tree and closed his eyes. He smiled slightly as Fawkes began to sing and willingly surrendered to the pull of sleep, aided by the haunting song.

Harry opened his eyes and stared around. If it weren’t for the fact that his scar didn’t hurt he would think he was having a vision. He took a step forward and tried to touch a wall only for his hand to go right through it as if he were a ghost. How was he meant to help Itachi if he couldn’t touch anything? He took a closer look at his surroundings; the hall he was in was empty and kind of gave him the creeps. He nearly jumped as a door swung open and cloaked figures entered. Even though everything was in black and white he could recognise them from Itachi’s description when he had told him about the organization he was hiding in. This was starting to look very bad for Itachi and possibly his friend Kisame too since he couldn’t see the other man anywhere. On the plus side no one seemed to be able to see him either.

“Bring the traitors.” At least he could hear what was going on. Harry gasped, as Itachi and Kisame were dragged in. he struggled to keep hold of his temper as they were tossed onto the cold stones and left there. He watched as Itachi stirred and pushed himself to his knees a few seconds before Kisame.

“Itachi.” Harry breathed, worried that if he could hear them they might hear him. Surprisingly Itachi looked straight at him but from the looks of it he wasn’t sure if he was really seeing Harry or a figment of his mind.
“I’m here Itachi, just hold on. Remember, just like you told me.” He smiled at his friend, trying to be brave for his sake.

Harry watched as the two were but through an utter farce of a trial before being found guilty, not that there could have been any other verdict from those people. He stared in horror as the sentence was declared, death by burning. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from the scene as every person in the room began a set of hand seals that were very familiar from a lesson Itachi had given him just last week. He remained frozen until the resulting fire reached the midpoint between the accused and their accusers.

“NO!” Without thought Harry moved until he was standing directly between the two groups and threw up a hand, his magic visibly swirly around his form. From the multiple gasps he realised he was now visible to more than Itachi. The fire slammed to a stop not an inch from his palm, impacting against a wall of pure magic and being absorbed.

“Harry?” Kisame asked very quietly.

“Harry.” Itachi stated, shocked. He’d guessed Harry was powerful since he had a prophecy hanging over his head dealing with an incredibly powerful enemy but he’d never really seen Harry use magic, not like this. But how was Harry here and as some sort of spirit? Emerald eyes turned to meet his gaze for a second before turning back to the others.

Harry focused his magic, acting purely on instinct and threw back a wave of power three times more powerful than the fire he had stopped. As people were tossed into walls like dolls he summoned a loose pit of scroll and pushed magic into it, turning it into a crude portkey. He threw it at Itachi and Kisame.

“Go!” Itachi nodded and grabbed the piece of paper, keeping a firm grip on Kisame. Harry relaxed as they vanished.

Itachi lay gasping for air, Kisame half on top of him. No wonder Harry hated those things.

“What the hell was that?”

“Portkey, a method of travel from Harry’s world.”

“At least we now know for sure that he’s real. But how?”

“Don’t know, I’ll ask him next time I see him.”

“Hope he got out okay. Where are we anyway?” Itachi didn’t need to sit up to know where they were.

“The glade. It’s the only place Harry knows here since we meet here in our dreams. It also means we are far to close to Konoha to be safe.”

“Yeah, well let me know when you can move and I’ll follow you.” Kisame groaned as he rolled off his friend.

“I want to be sure Harry’s safe, keep watch?”

“No problem.”

Itachi looked around the glade and smiled as he saw Harry asleep under their tree. But he tensed as he noticed the bird nearby.

‘Harry is fine, he will awaken in a few seconds.’ With that the bird vanished in a flash of flames. Not trusting it, after all how many birds can talk, he ran over to Harry. He swiftly checked his pulse and breathing before allowing himself to relax. Sure enough Harry began to stir even as he was removing his hand. Dazed green eyes blinked open before focusing on him.

“Itachi?” Harry suddenly bolted upright, nearly hitting Itachi.
“Merlin, are you alright? What about Kisame?”

“Bruised and tired but we’ll be fine, thanks to you. At least we now know beyond a doubt that this is real.”

“Brilliant way to test that fact. And thank the ruddy bird. I was worried but Fawkes told me you needed my help and showed me how.”

“So that was Fawkes. But you’re okay? The attack didn’t hurt you?”

“I’m fine, I promise.” Harry smiled shyly, not used to such concern from anyone other than Hermione.

“Good. I’ve never seen anything like what you did Harry, you saved our lives.” Itachi frowned, as Harry seemed to close off.

“Harry? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. I’m glad you’re both okay. Guess I’m tired.” Harry gave a smile that was obviously false.

“Don’t lie to me Harry. You know it won’t work here.” Itachi put his hand on Harry’s shoulder only to feel him flinch. He thought about what he’d said and then back over all of their conversations. It suddenly hit him.
“Harry. You are my friend because you are you. Anyone else would have been scared of me but you accepted me. I don’t care about how powerful you are or what you can do, except where it will keep you alive. You could be totally powerless and you’d still be Harry to me. Those people are just glory seeking idiots who don’t know what they’re missing out on.” Harry looked away, ashamed of his reaction.

“I’m sorry.” Itachi hugged him, ignoring the pain it ignited.

“Don’t be, it’s not your fault.” Itachi let him go.
“I think it’s safe to say training’s cancelled tonight.”

“No, really? You should probably get some deeper sleep anyway to heal or wake up and move if the glade isn’t safe. I would have sent you somewhere else but it is the only place I know of.”

“Trust me, its better then where we were.”

“Yeah, it’s missing the giant fireballs.” Harry smiled a real smile this time.

“See you later Harry.”

“School goes back tomorrow so I may be too tired for a few nights.” Harry called as Itachi began to fade. He managed to see him nod before the glade vanished.

Harry stared out the window as the civilisation vanished to leave wide-open country. So far he’d managed to avoid his friends so he was alone in his compartment and he was happy to stay like that. He’d have to start acting soon enough as it was. Or would he? Should he tell Ron what he thought of him now? He knew he was going to get called to the Headmasters office due to his vanishing act over the summer but he didn’t really care. Harry turned as the door slid open to reveal a familiar blond.

“Either come in and sit down or move on Draco. Standing in the doorway is going to attract attention I would rather avoid.” Harry stated as he turned back to the window. He held back a smirk as he saw Malfoy’s expression reflected in the glass.

“Who are you and what did you do to Potter?” Draco asked as he slipped inside and settled on the seat opposite Harry. Harry laughed.

“Oh its me Malfoy. Lets just say I found out a few things this summer that forced me to re-evaluate a lot of my beliefs. Don’t get me wrong; I’ll still hex you if you call Hermione a Mudblood but Ron? Well, lets just say its open season shall we?”

“So the Golden Trio is no more?”

“It never existed apparently. Do what you want to him; he’s a backstabbing glory hound and no friend of mine. So, how was your summer?”

“Not bad, Mother and I spent a lot of time in Paris. She loves travelling, I actually spent a lot of my childhood there before Hogwarts.”

“It sounds wonderful. I’ve never been out of England except for school.”

“Your relatives don’t like to travel?”

“Oh, they love it. Taking the resident Freak however?” Draco stared at him in shock.
“Don’t believe everything you hear. My family and I share a mutual dislike of each other, although on their side it’s more like hatred.”

“Then why do you stand up for Muggles?”

“Because for everyone bad one there are at least five good ones. It’s the same with Wizards. In the end, we’re all human. So since you were in Paris I’m guessing you haven’t joined the club?” Draco stared at him blankly before he realised what he was saying.

“I…No. That was the reason we left. Mother didn’t want.” He stopped and Harry nodded.

“Do you want to join?” Draco stared at him, unsure what to do. On one hand he was talking to the poster boy for the light, on the other this Potter was a lot different to the one he usually fought with and he could use someone to talk with.
“It’s your choice Draco, no one can make it for you. However I will listen if you need to talk and I won’t say anything to anyone unless of course you admit you’re going to kill someone at school or something.”

“Why?” Harry shrugged.

“Everyone needs someone to talk to. I found someone over the summer and it let me sort out a lot of things I didn’t even realise I needed to sort out. If you do decide not to join don’t go to Dumbledore.” Draco stared at him in shock.
“For now lets just say he isn’t exactly what he makes everyone believe. I have no doubt he’ll be calling me in for a nice little chat at some point since I managed to get away from my babysitters for most of the summer.”

“Nice to see you thinking for yourself Potter.”

“Thanks, and it’s Harry.” He extended his hand and Draco slowly took it. They began talking about various things as the train continued on its way to Hogwarts, keeping the conversation light to let Draco think things through. Both looked up as the door slid open and Hermione stood frozen in shock.

“Are you coming in Granger? We’ve managed to keep the groupies out this long however you just standing there will attract attention.” Hermione stared at him and then Harry, not sure what to do. Harry’s warm smile had her stepping inside and sitting beside him.

“Harry, there’s something you need to know. It’s about the Weasley’s. I…” Harry took her hand and squeezed it comfortingly.

“I know Mione. I was there that day when you punched Ron. I heard everything. Thank you for standing up for me like that.” He hugged her gently.
“You should be glad she punched you in third year Draco, her punches appear to have gotten a lot harder since then.” Draco chuckled slightly.

“She hit hard enough back then. I’m sure the Weasel deserved it Granger.”

“Harry? What’s going on?”

“I better go find the ‘groupies’ before they find us and storm in.” The Slytherin stated, standing.

“I meant what I offered Draco.” The blond paused with a hand on the door. He nodded slightly and then left.

“Harry?” Hermione was nervous. Something was different about Harry and she wasn’t sure what. There was no way he’d side with Malfoy’s views, was there?

“It’s okay Mione. I’ll tell you everything.” Harry smiled softly at her and she relaxed, no he was still her Harry.

“Ah, Harry my boy. Come in. Lemon drop?”

“No thank you.” Harry sat and made himself comfortable. Unknown to the old man his hands were already part way through forming hand seals in case he needed a quick get away. He turned to look at Fawkes as the phoenix let out an amused trill and shook out his feathers before settling more comfortably. The bird obviously knew this was going to get interesting.

“Now Harry, you caused a great amount of worry with your disappearing act this summer. I understand that you suffered during your captivity and that you feel bad over Miss Weasley’s death but that was no reason to put yourself in unnecessary danger. You know you are only safe as long as you remain with your family.”

“Frankly sir it is none of your business where I go or what I do outside of school. You are my Headmaster not my guardian.”

“Now Harry.”

“No. I am not a pawn on your chessboard Dumbledore. I will fight Riddle because he must be stopped, not for you or your precious Order. You can no longer take my money and the only reason I haven’t thrown you out of Grimmauld place is that I have no desire to live there myself. You are manipulative and in some ways as bad as Tom. You have known since I was born that I would have to face him and yet what have you done to prepare me for my fate? You left me in the care of my oh so loving muggle family. A family that decided to starve and beat the magic out of me, that kept me locked in a cupboard for ten years. You manipulated my life in the Wizarding world from the word go. You sent Hagrid to collect me and then paid the Weasley’s to befriend me. Oh yes, I know all about that. Ronald really needs to learn to watch what he says in public. Every year I asked you why Tom is after me and every year you denied me an answer. And when I do find out you claimed you wanted me to have a normal childhood. Tell me sir, how many children do you know of that are treated the way I have been? I will not play your game any more Dumbledore.” Harry spat, breathing heavily and struggling to control his temper.

“I am sorry you feel that way Harry. It is obvious that your capture has affected you more than I originally believed. I can not risk you going Dark and it is obvious you have started down that path.” Harry saw the wand move and quickly finished the last hand seal. Instead of him the spell hit the bowl he had replaced himself with, giving him plenty of time to get out of the office. Using chakra to increase his speed he ran along the ceiling towards the dungeons. He only hoped he hadn’t judged the man wrongly.

Itachi smiled as he saw Harry leaning against their tree. They hadn’t seen each other since the rather spectacular rescue and he was eager to hear how his friend had been. His smile vanished as he got a closer look at the other teen.

“Harry? What happened?” Itachi dropped to his knees beside his friend, worried by the look on his face.

“Thanks for teaching me how to do replacement or who knows what I’d be like now.” Harry's voice was flat with anger and pain.

“What do you mean?” The worry was clear in Itachi’s voice.

“Dumbledore called me in for a chat like I figured he would. I told him it was none of his business what I did outside of school and that I knew what he had been doing. He decided I’m going Dark and shot off a spell. Luckily I had the hand seals all but complete so the spell hit a bowl and I ran to Professor Snape. I told him what was going on and he gave a Magical Oath to keep my secrets and let me stay for the night. I don’t know what the spell was but I’d guess it was to knock me out or make me susceptible to suggestion. What am I going to do? I have to finish my education but how can I with Dumbledore in control?”

“You’re a celebrity right?”

“Yeah.”

“So go to the press. Reveal him for what he is. Use your money and influence.” Itachi said, wishing more than anything that he could do more to help.

“I do that and I’ll end up dividing our forces. I can’t fight Tom and his Death Eaters alone.”

“True but anyone with sense will realise that siding with someone like Dumbledore is stupid so you shouldn’t loose too many.” Harry nodded slowly.

“I’m scared.” Harry whispered.
“Everything’s moving so fast now.” Harry leant against Itachi and the ninja wrapped his arms around him.

“I wish I could do more to help.” Itachi whispered.

“You have helped a lot. If I hadn’t had you to talk to I don’t know what I would have done.” Harry smiled up at him warmly. Itachi smiled back and leant down slightly even as Harry stretched up towards him. He froze as their lips brushed, waiting for Harry to push him away but it didn’t happen. They stayed like that for a few minutes, leaving the kiss at just a light brush before pulling back. Itachi looked at Harry closely and the younger teen smiled shyly, no sign of regret or disgust on his face or in his eyes.

“Harry.” He started only for Harry to put a finger over his lips.

“I like you Itachi, a lot. I know the odds of our ever having something are pretty non-existent what with the whole different worlds thing but can’t we try? I don’t care that you’re a wanted man there; I know you’re innocent and that’s enough. You…you see me. Not the Boy-Who-lived or James Potters son but me, Harry. Please?” Itachi nodded slowly.

“I like you Harry, I have for a while now. Kisame noticed it first and I didn’t want to believe him. But I can’t ignore it any longer.” Harry smiled brightly at him and leant back in. Their second kiss was less unsure but still light. Neither had much experience after all and this was very new to them.
“Don’t think this means I’m going to go easy on you in training.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” Harry snuggled closer and sighed.
“I should wake up and get to the press before Dumbledore has a chance but I don’t want to leave.”

“I’ll see you soon Harry, you’re right. You should go, I don’t want him to hurt you anymore than he has.” Itachi kissed him softly goodbye.

“I’ll be back tonight if I can.” Itachi nodded and Harry faded away, still smiling at him.

Harry sat up on the couch Snape had let him sleep on. He smiled softly and touched his lips, remembering their kisses before slipping quietly into the bathroom to neaten up. He jumped in surprise as he left it.

“You startled me Professor.” Snape nodded.

“A little late to be up and about.”

“I’ve been thinking. Dumbledore has decided I’m going Dark, what’s to stop him going to the press or government about it? It would be a way to get control of me back.”

“Agreed. So what will you do?”

“I need to beat him to them. The goblins have proof of his theft and it’s about time I started using my stupid fame for something.” Harry looked at him, waiting for a comment about how much like his father he was but it never came.

“You’ll need backing from at least one family. The Weasley’s are obviously out, as am I due to my dubious loyalties. The Longbottom’s could be a possibility if you had time but they are not quite your equals in station.”

“What is your opinion of Draco? Do you think he’ll take the mark?” Snape raised an eyebrow and Harry shrugged.
“We talked on the train. I think I nearly gave him a heart attack when I told him to shut the door and sit down.” Harry chuckled slightly at the memory.
“He seemed confused to me.”

“Narcissa took him to Paris so that he couldn’t be given the Mark on his birthday as he should have had. Draco is spoilt and can be a bully but I think actually being exposed to some of the life of a Death Eater since the Dark Lord’s return has shocked some sense into him. You are thinking of him?”

“He’s got the family station and money if he can disconnect himself from his father’s shadow.”

“I will speak with him now. If you want to beat Dumbledore you need to go now. Get your proof from Gringotts and then got to the Prophet, there is some staff there all night.” Harry nodded and stood, moving to the fireplace and the Floo powder.
“Wait.” Harry turned back
“You can hardly go in school robes. Change into your dress ones, if I remember correctly they are at last presentable.” Harry nodded and disappeared back into the bathroom to change.

“Thank you sir.” Snape nodded and Harry disappeared into the Floo.

“Hey.” Harry leant in for a tentative kiss and Itachi wrapped his arms around him.

“Are you okay?”

“Spent the whole night and most of the day with the prophet and then at the ministry. Turns out I totally beat him to the press and just to the ministry. They’re bringing charges against him, the trials in a month. I’ll have to testify under Veritaserum.”

“You’ll do fine. Come on, let’s get you training.”

“Sir, yes, Sir.” Harry grinned and took off.

“Brat.” Itachi stated fondly before taking off after him, kunai in hand.

---------------

“Breath Potter.” Harry nodded numbly at Draco’s instruction, still in shock. They’d done it. The verdict was unanimous; Albus Dumbledore had been stripped of all titles and positions and wouldn’t be seeing daylight for a long time. All it had taken was Harry making a stand for several dozen others to come forward and press charges against the aging Wizard. Only Draco’s firm grip on his arm kept him from bolting as the approached the exit where they could already hear the shouts of the press and various people who had not been able to get inside.

“How dare you!” Both teens fought a flinch at the shrill voice of Molly Weasley. The irate woman grabbed Harry’s arm, pulling him away from Draco.
“You ungrateful little brat! Albus warned us you were going Dark and this proves it! Consorting with a Death Eater to imprison such a great man!”

“A great man because he uses other peoples money to line your pockets Molly?” Harry spat, finally pulling his arm free.
“For your information Draco is not a Death Eater, just because his father licks that hypocrites boots does not mean he does. Draco is a good friend to both Hermione and I, a far better friend then your pathetic family. How much exactly did Dumbledore pay you to ‘befriend the poor little orphan’?” Harry was well aware that the media could hear every word but he didn’t care. He could see Draco smirking out of the corner of his eye, a smirk that turned to a look of shocked horror.

“Harry!” He spun back to Molly only for her open palm to connect with his face with considerable force. He staggered back slightly but didn’t fall thanks to his training, not that it made the blow hurt any less. Aurors were on the group in seconds, pulling the Weasley matriarch away and surrounding the two teens for their safety.
“Merlin, are you all right?” Draco tilted his face to look at where he’d been hit.

“I’m okay, just shocked, never thought she’d do that in public.”

“Yes, well the press will certainly have a field day with the pictures of that.”

“Harry! Draco! What happened?” Hermione shoved her way past the Aurors and to their side.

“Just Mrs. Weasley expressing her anger at my actions. Nothing to get worked up over.”

“Oh you were brilliant in there.” Harry stumbled in shock as Hermione threw her arms around him.

“Uh, thanks Mione. Could you let go though? I do need to breath at some point.”

“Well done Mr. Potter.” The teens looked up and smiled at their Potions Professor.

“Thank you sir. Come on, lets get out of here and celebrate.”

----------------

“It’s finished.” Harry said as he collapsed beside his friend? Boyfriend? What exactly was he meant to call him?

“Are you okay?”

“Exhausted. I got questioned and then cross-examined and then they made me take Veritaserum. Then after the verdict I had to face a very mad Molly Weasley and then the press. After that we went out and celebrated. Remind me to never touch Firewhisky again! I have such a headache!” Harry’s groan turned to one of relief as Itachi sent healing chakra into him, easing the pain.
“Thanks.”

“Your welcome. So I’ll assume he was found guilty?”

“Yep. All it took was me to start things and a whole lot pf people stepped forward wanting to ad charges. There is a nice cell in Azkaban with Dumbledore’s name on it.”

“Good. I don’t want that man anywhere near you.” Itachi kissed him lightly and Harry snuggled in closer. Itachi smiled, he no longer minded the physical contact that Harry seemed to crave and was quite willing to give it. That did not extend to anyone else though as Kisame had found out the hard way, he was still nursing the bruises. So far he’d managed to keep his friend from learning of the change in his relationship with Harry and he hoped to keep it that way for as long as possible, last thing he needed was for the other man to start gloating.

“Voldemort’s going to have a field day though. Dumbledore was the only thing keeping him from attacking Hogwarts. Now that he’s gone…”

“You’ll need to increase the defences. I’ve taught you how to do that and plan for an assault. Believe in yourself Harry, I do.” Harry nodded and they fell silent, content to just sit together.

“How’s Harry?” Itachi looked at Kisame as they travelled through the treetops.

“Worried. He did just cause the so called most powerful light wizard to get sent to prison after all.”

“Yeah, nice job. Give him my congratulations.” Itachi nodded and they fell silent. Since they’re rescue by Harry they had kept moving constantly, only stopping to sleep. They simply had too many people after them now. Kisame groaned and Itachi shook his head, joining his partner in turning to face the latest group of attackers. Life was getting very predictable.

Itachi dodged a blow from Kakashi with only half of his mind on the fight. It had been three days since he’d last seen Harry and he was more than a little worried since Harry’s departure had been more than a little sudden. His eyes flicked to the side where Kisame was keeping two others occupied. Itachi went to throw some shuriken but froze, looking around wildly. Kakashi had stoped too he noticed but the other three were still fighting.

“What are you doing?” Kakashi asked, he hadn’t seen Itachi use any seals.

“I’m not doing this. But I think I might know what it is.” He frowned as transparent stonewalls lit by torches appeared around them.

“An ally?” Kakashi asked suspiciously, still ready to move at any moment. By now the forest had been completely replaced by the building and the stones had solidified. Itachi put his hand up to one only to find it passed through easily. It seemed to be the same thing that had happened to Harry but then how was Kakashi with him? Unless the Sharingan had something to do with it? The other had been using it in their fight after all.

“A friend who has nothing to do with our world.” Pounding footsteps had both men tensing and the watched as three figures rounded the corner, obviously out of breath. Kakashi saw Itachi take a half step towards one of them and readied himself for an attack.

“Did we lose them?” One, a blond male asked.

“For the moment.” The only female answered.

“Are you alright Harry?”

“I’ll be okay, just a headache.” The final figure, and the one Itachi seemed to recognise answered.
“Further we get from him the better it’ll get.”

“We have to do something! We’re the only ones free.”

“Do what Granger? Commit suicide? Three teenagers against an army aren’t exactly good odds.”

“Someone needs to get out and warn the Ministry. The remaining two can at least cause some havoc till help arrives. They may be adults but thanks to the Weasley twins and my Dad’s cloak we know the Castle better.” The one called Harry stated.

“So who goes for help?” Granger asked.

“You do. Book smarts won’t get far now and Harry and I are more powerful. Besides, Father taught me a thing or two about their tactics.”

“But…”

“Draco’s right Hermione, you’re the best choice.” Harry smiled at her.
“You can do it Mione.” The girl took a deep breath and nodded.

“Now that that’s sorted, how exactly is she meant to get out?”

“The one way only two people alive can use.”

“The Chamber.” Hermione whispered.
“Harry.”

“You’ll be fine. We’ll stay with you until you’re clear of the password areas. The tunnel leads out passed the Wards so you cam apparate immediately.”

“Where exactly is the entrance to the Chamber?” Draco asked.

“Moaning Myrtle’s, where else.”

“Merlin help us.” The three took off again but for a second green eyes focused on the two Shinobi and lit with recognition as they saw Itachi.

“Come on.” Itachi said, taking off after them. Kakashi watched for a few seconds before deciding to follow, better than getting lost in a strange place. They followed the teens to a bathroom and watched as Harry searched the sinks.

“Found it. ‘Open’.” Everyone watched as the sink moved back, revealing a dark drop. Kakashi shivered slightly as the boy hissed, that did not sound natural. Once again Itachi instantly followed them.

“We must be heading for the Chamber of Secrets.” Itachi commented.
“Wonder if the snake’s still there?”

The snake was still there and from the way the three teens paled had obviously started to rot.

“Charming.” Draco commented, earning two glares.

“What’s the matter Draco? Can’t stand the smell?”

“Honestly you two, we need to go!”

“Yes ma’am.” Both boys answered simultaneously. Harry led the way confidently through the chamber and then the tunnels.

“This is as far as we go Mione. Be careful.” He hugged her briefly.

“I will. You two be careful. Don’t get caught.”

“Those idiots catch us? Honestly Granger I thought you had a higher opinion of us then that.”

“Oh shut up.” Harry stared in shock as Hermione grabbed Draco and kissed him before bolting towards the exist. He had to muffle a laugh at the look on his friends face.

“Not one word Potter, not one word.”

Harry slipped into an unused classroom to catch his breath and talk to his two ghostly followers.

“Hey Itachi.”

“Are you okay Harry? What’s happened?”

“Other than Voldemort deciding to invade the school, nothing much. They’ve got the students and staff locked up in the Great Hall at the moment but it’s only a matter of time till they start killing and torturing them. Who’s your friend?”

“Hatake Kakashi. He’s my brother’s sensei.”

“Nice to meet you. How’d he get dragged along?”

“No idea, we were fighting till we ended up in that hall. I was worried when you disappeared so suddenly.”

“The wards going off woke me. Haven’t really had much sleep since, too busy trying to keep the Death Munchers outside. As you can tell we failed.”

“Where are we?” Kakashi finally asked.

“Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. I’m Harry Potter by the way.”

“Magic?”

“Yes magic exists, well at least it does in this world. Look, Itachi can tell you all about it later if you decide not to try and kill each other but I have some idiots to annoy so if you’ll excuse me.” Harry slipped out of the room. Itachi swore as the castle began to fade and the forest reappear to reveal three rather shocked Shinobi.

“Harry?” Kisame asked from where he had the two leaf nin cornered.

“He’s in trouble.” Kisame snorted.

“And that’s new?”

“Who was that boy?”

“You heard him, he’s a Wizard by the name of Harry. Poor brat’s got the fate of the world on his shoulders. He should be able to cause a bit of trouble using the jutsu’s I taught him plus magic. He’d make a fine Shinobi.” Itachi commented, confusing the others except Kisame. Wasn’t he meant to be an insane mass murderer?
“Another day; lets go Kisame.” With that the two missing nin were gone. Kakashi watched them go, something odd was definitely going on. The boy had obviously known and trusted Itachi and hadn’t been scared of him at all and Itachi seemed sane. There was more to this then met the eye and he needed to inform the Hokage.

“Kakashi-sensei, there’s someone up ahead.” Sakura said quietly. He nodded and the four spread out, ready for an attack. Looking down at the ground they saw a crumpled figure with a growing pool of blood surrounding him or her. Kakashi dropped to the ground and cautiously approached, weary of any traps. The three teens remained in the trees to keep watch. He knelt and carefully rolled the figure over; it was a young man with dark, messy hair and a lightning bolt scar. Kakashi froze for a second, he’d seen this boy once before.

“Harry.” A low, pained moan answered him and unfocused green eyes fluttered open. What was Itachi’s friend doing so close to Konoha and in such condition?

“Who?” Kakashi barely heard the question and it sounded like it hurt a lot for him to speak.

“Kakashi, I was with Itachi.” The boy nodded slightly and then his eyes widened.

“Where?” Harry coughed and Kakashi decided to take a risk. He gently pulled him up to lean against a tree and his breathing became easier.
“Thanks.”

“Not far from Konoha.”

“How? Last thing I remember…oh Merlin no.” Kakashi stared as Harry simply passed out.

“Kakashi-sensei?” Naruto called.

“We’re heading back. He needs medical attention.” Kakashi lifted Harry easily; he was far too light for his age and build.

“Who is he?” Sakura asked as Kakashi rejoined them in the trees.

“His name is Harry. We need to hurry.” With that they were off.

Harry groaned as light forced its way past his eyelids, sending sharp pain into his brain. Please say he hadn’t decided to get drunk with Draco again, Hermione would kill them. He relaxed a bit, as the light was shaded, quite content to go back asleep.

“I know you are awake. I have some questions for you.” The unfamiliar female voice had Harry’s eyes snapping open. Without a thought he reached for his magic ready to fight or run if he had to. The first thing he noticed were the guards on the door and the woman near the bed; the second was that he was in a hospital, again. All of which was completely unfamiliar.

“Where am I?” He coughed and accepted the glass of water, subtly checking it for potions or poisons before drinking it. Okay so he was a little paranoid these days, you would be to if you’d nearly been killed how many times?

“Konoha hospital. I am Tsunade, the Godaime. One of our genin teams found you in the forest and brought you here for treatment.” Harry sat, staring at her in shock. Konoha? But that meant… It was impossible, wasn’t it?
“Kakashi told me a very interesting story, about having met you before.” Harry focused back on what she was saying and nodded.
“So you are Harry Potter?” She stumbled over his name slightly.

“Yes ma’am. Thank you for healing my injuries.” He answered politely. Tsunade smiled ever so slightly, at least he was polite. But he was still an unknown with ties to Itachi and that meant he was dangerous.

“What is your relationship with Uchiha Itachi?” Harry mentally groaned, fighting not to blush. He doubted she meant it that way. But it was a question he didn’t really want to answer for fear they would lock him up or something.

“It’s a rather long story. Would it be possible to get some food? I can’t really remember when the last time I ate was. I can talk between bites.” His stomach chose that moment to make its presence known and Harry did blush at that. She nodded and one of the guards left to get him some food. A few minutes later Harry was eating quickly but neatly, enjoying his first taste of their food.
“Thank you, that was very good. I’ve never eaten anything like it before.”

“Your welcome. Now?”

“I met Itachi…okay I’m almost eighteen now and I was just sixteen so it would be about two years ago I guess. I hadn’t realised it had been so long. Our first meeting was rather odd since neither of us had a clue what was going on or if the other was real.” He paused to drink some more water.

“How could you not know if he was real?”

“Quite simple really since I knew I was at my relatives asleep in bed and yet there I was in a glade in a forest I’d never seen before. I think I thoroughly confused him that night actually. After that we saw each other nearly every night. He didn’t talk much so I’d tell him about my day, stuff like that. Took a while but eventually he started to open up and we became friends I guess. It really helped, having someone to talk to while stuck at my Aunts that summer.” Harry shut his eyes. He’d accepted Sirius’ death and the part he had played init but that didn’t mean it no longer hurt. Tsunade let him take his time; it was obvious he was remembering something painful.
“The closest person to a father I’d ever known had just died and it was partially my fault. For my so-called safety I wasn’t allowed to contact anyone outside so being able to talk to Itachi helped. Pretty sure it stopped me going mad from grief and blaming myself.”

“How was it your fault in any way?”

“Because I did something stupid and Sirius died coming to my rescue. Once I was back at school we didn’t see as much of each other, we only shared dreams when we weren’t exhausted. There was a village within walking distance of school were we would go some weekends. There was an attack and I was caught. After that Itachi decided I needed to learn how to fight. So he started working on getting my fitness up, I think I drove my guard up the wall with the runs I did around the neighbour.” Harry smiled at that.
“Only one who could keep up was Tonks.” Harry’s smile faded as he remembered what had happened to the friendly Auror. She’d been captured, tortured and then killed at the beginning of his seventh year while out spying for Dumbledore. Tsunade sensed his sadness but had to ask.

“Why did you have guards?”

“For my safety, not that the Order was much use in a fight. For my entire life I’ve had a Dark Lord and his followers after me. After my fourth year the Order began following me around, didn’t do much good. I had to break myself out the one time I was caught.”

“Why are you so important?”

“Because I’m the freaking ‘Boy-Who-Lived’. I survived the killing curse, the only one in history to do so.” He lifted his hair revealing the unusual scar.
“I should have died as baby but for some reason it didn’t work and ended backfiring on him. Unfortunately it didn’t kill him, just split his spirit from his body. Anyway, on Itachi’s advice I convinced my relatives to let me sign up for martial arts classes. A month later I turned seventeen and was out of there. Pulled a disappearing act on the Order and found out a few things about the so-called leader of the light that he would have rather I didn’t. He confronted me at the start of school and it was only thanks to Itachi having taught me the replacement technique that I got out and ran to another teacher. It was Itachi who suggested I start actually using my fame to get things done so I went to the press and the government. A few months later Dumbledore was put on trial and sentenced to prison and the rest of my people finally pulled their heads out of the sand and started preparing for war. Oh, I also somehow ended up in this world at one point but as some sort of ghost like thing. Saved Itachi and his friend from getting fried by their ex-bosses, that was before I went back to school. Towards the end of the school year we were attacked. We kept them out of the castle for a day but then they overpowered the wards. Only three of us managed to stay free. Draco and I stayed behind after helping Hermione get out to get help. That was when I met Kakashi. He and Itachi showed up like I had when I rescued Itachi and followed me around for a bit before I found somewhere where I could stop and talk for a few seconds. Then I left and went back to causing trouble for the Death Eaters. The idea was to buy Hermione time to get back and keep as many of the students and teachers alive as possible. Turned into a month long game of tag since the creeps had put up their own wards to keep help out. The Ministry finally broke through and…”

“And?”

“I…I don’t know.” He looked up at her in near panic.
“Why can’t I remember what happened?”

“You were badly injured and nearly dead when Kakashi brought you in. The trauma may have affected your memory. With time you should remember.” He nodded, calming down.
“What I have to decide now is wether or not you are a threat to Konoha.” Harry looked back up at her.
“You have associated, physically or not with a known missing-nin for several years and have at least some ninja training. That is enough for some to want you killed.” Harry paled.

“Great, survive the stupid prophecy to get killed in another world. My life officially sucks.” He slumped against the pillows.

“That will not necessarily be your fate. How much has he taught you?”

“Henge, Kawarimi, Katon: Goukakyuu no Jutsu which I’m sort of getting the hang of. Other than that just how to fight, throw shuriken, that sort of thing. I can use a sword but I didn’t learn that from him and I’m still learning.” Harry shrugged, not bothered that he was leaving out his magical training, she hadn’t asked. The last year had brought out more of his Slytherin side, much to Draco’s amusement.

“I need to get back to work. For now, the team that found you has been asking about you. Feel up to visitors?”

“Sure, why not.”

“A word of warning. Uchiha Sasuke was one of them, make no mention of knowing Itachi.”

“Yes ma’am.” She nodded and left and Harry relaxed, clearing his mind and reinforcing his occlumency shields. He stared out of the window visible from the bed, lost in thought. Obviously he had survived the fight but had he actually killed Voldemort? What had happened to everyone else? Did Itachi know he was alive or did he think he was dead?

“Hey! You’re finally awake!” Harry jumped and looked around. He smiled at the younger teen that had spoken. Ninja certainly had interesting dress sense but orange?

“Seems like. Apparently I have you four to thank for still being alive.” Harry laughed softly as the orange clad teen actually bounced around the room.

“Yep! We found you in the forest. You really didn’t look good.”

“I’m not surprised, um?”

“Oh. Naruto, Uzumaki Naruto. These are my teammates, Haruno Sakura and Uchiha Sasuke. The pervert with his head in the book is our sensei, Hatake Kakashi. Kakashi-sensei said your name is Harry.”

“It’s nice to meet you all. My name is Harry Potter. Though I suppose you would say Potter Harry. That just sounds weird.”

“How do you know Kakashi-sensei?” Sakura asked.

“We’ve met once, very briefly.” Harry said, watching the older man curiously.

“Are you a ninja? Where’s you forehead protector? Are you a missing-nin?” Harry laughed honestly at the rapid questions.

“Naruto, give him time to answer.” Kakashi said, watching Harry while still reading. He was curious about the teenager. He didn’t seem the sort of person to make friends with the older Uchiha and yet they had been comfortable with each other.

“I’m not a ninja. My home is, well far away from here. We don’t have Shinobi.”

“Then who protects you?”

“Various people. Aurors for one, they’re sort of a police force more than anything.”

“Oh, are you an Auror?” Naruto stumbled over the strange word.

“No, I’m still in school, well I was. Should have graduated a month or so ago but it was put off. I was going to apply for Auror training though.”

“School? How old are you? We finished school years ago!”

“It wasn’t that long ago Naruto! Don’t be rude!” Sakura yelled at him.

“It’s okay, school for us lasts until your seventeen or eighteen, depending on the school. As for my age, I’ll be eighteen this year.” Harry honestly didn’t mind the questions, he liked the blond already. Something about him was tickling his magical senses but wasn’t setting any warnings off so he’d ignore it for now. It was nice talking to someone who had no idea who he was. He was observing Sasuke while talking; he could see the family resemblance between him and Itachi and Sasuke seemed like Itachi had been when they first met, cold and distant. But Harry could see the pain in those dark eyes, pain the boy believed his own brother was responsible for. Harry wished he could tell him otherwise but he couldn’t ay anything, at least not yet.

“Who attacked you?” Harry blinked in surprise as Sasuke spoke and then shrugged.

“I don’t remember. The lady who was in here before, um Tsunade? She said it could be from trauma and that I should eventually remember.”

“The Hokage is a great healer, she healed many of your wounds herself.” Kakashi said.
“The three of you should return to training. I wish to speak with Harry alone.”

“But…”

“I don’t want to keep you from your training. Maybe you can visit again later?” With much grumbling on Naruto’s part the three left.
“They seem like good kids.” Kakashi nodded at Harry’s observation.
“What did you want to talk to me about?” Harry leant back into the pillows, he was getting very tired, then again he couldn’t remember when he’d last slept and Naruto’s excitement plus the Hokage’s questioning had worn him out.

“Your intentions towards Sasuke.” Harry sat up instantly in shock.

“Huh?”

“I saw you watching him. I will not allow you to harm any of my students.”

“Whoa! Slow down sir. How dare… I would never, ever harm a kid. Yes I was watching him but out of curiosity, nothing more. Itachi speaks of him often and they look a lot alike. That’s a big part of your way of life I dislike. Children should never be expected to fight and kill.” Kakashi watched him carefully, his responses seemed honest.

“You were?” Harry nodded.

“Shortly after I was born there was a prophecy made about the one who would finally defeat the Dark Lord. Lucky me. I was fifteen when I finally found out about it and I’d just watched the only father figure I’d ever known die because of it. But I’d been in training since I was eleven without even knowing, he kept pushing me in the way of trouble and watching to see how I would do, how his little weapon was progressing and how soon he could truly pit me against Tom. I killed for the first time at eleven. It was self-defence but…I didn’t even realise till later. All I knew was he had to be stopped so I touched him and he burned.” Harry had curled up on the bed without realising it and Kakashi felt bad for asking.
“I hate killing, I know that sometimes its unavoidable but I still hate it.”

“Get some rest. You’ll need it if Naruto comes back to visit.” Harry managed to give him a tired smiled before getting comfortable under the covers and drifting off.

“Your opinion Kakashi?” Kakashi stood slouched in Tsunade’s office.

“He appeared genuinely upset by my suggestion that he was here to hurt Sasuke or Naruto. Apparently Itachi has spoken of Sasuke to him. The boy has lead a hard life but he is no killer unless given no other option.”

“So you don’t think his presence here is a trap?” Tsunade asked.

“No, his reactions were too honest. That is not to say that his presence could not be taken advantage of. If Itachi were to attack I do not know what he would do beyond not harming children. He sees my team as children though so that would put him at a disadvantage.”

“There are those who would want him used to trap Itachi or simply be killed for liking him.”

“I do not believe he is a threat. When I first saw him, he was one of three left free after their school was attacked. He stayed behind to distract the enemy, giving one of his companions the chance to go for help. He was fighting to protect children when he was little more than one himself and as he admitted he is not fully trained.”

“Very well, for now the council will remain ignorant. As far as anyone knows he was a simple traveller who ran afoul of bandits. But he will be watched.”

“I volunteer my team to watch him.”

“Agreed. For now he will remain in the hospital but once released I want him to live with you, at least until we’re positive about his intentions.”

“As you wish.” Kakashi left via the window to her annoyance. She looked over the medical file she had made for Harry Potter. Yes, he had had a hard life. She shook her head sadly; no child should have scars like that.

“Morning Harry!” Harry turned from the window to smile at his most frequent visitor for the past two weeks.

“Good morning Naruto.”

“Hey, you’re out of bed!”

“Yes, I can leave tomorrow so it was decided I’m well enough to be up.” He walked back to the bed and sat on the edge, patting a spot next to him for Naruto. The blond jumped up ext to him.
“So what have you been up to?”

“Just boring missions. Next Chuunin exam is in a few months and Kakashi-sensei said he’s going to enter us again.”

“Congratulations. That’s the next rank right?”

“Yep! Iruka-sensei’s a chuunin. The last exam got interrupted by an attack.” Harry nodded, Itachi had told him about it, and the mark given to his little brother. It sounded too much like the Dark Mark for comfort and in some ways even worse.
“What’ll happen when they let you out of here?”

“I don’t know yet.”

“I hope you stay. I... well, I.”

“Don’t have a lot of friends do you?” Harry smiled softly as he saw Naruto freeze. He gave the younger teen a comforting pat on the arm.
“I know what that’s like. Because of my cousin and his gang I had no friends as a child, they scared them all away and beat up anyone who tried to talk to me.”

“Why?”

“Because I was different to them. It got better when I started at Hogwarts; I made a few friends but not a lot. And there, everyone knew who I was because of what happened when I was a baby and a lot of people only wanted to be my friend so they could say they knew me. It wasn’t until the last year that I really found out who my true friends were. It’s not the amount of friends you have that matters Naruto but the quality. One friend who will stand by you even to the death is better than a hundred who will turn their backs on you when there’s trouble.” Harry let Naruto think about that in silence, content to stare out the window until the younger boy wanted to talk.

“Are we friends?”

“I hope so.” Tsunade smiled from her place just outside the door. She really hoped Harry was genuine for Naruto’s sake. He could do with all the friends he could get and it sounded like Harry needed the same.

“Good to see you up Harry.” She said, walking in and acting as if she hadn’t been listening at the door. The smile Harry shot her let her know he’d known she was there.

“Thanks to you. The nurse said I’d be able to leave tomorrow. Guess I’d like to know what happens next.” She could hear a twinge of nervousness in his voice though he hid it well.

“Kakashi has agreed to let you live with him for the time being. Speaking of Kakashi, shouldn’t you be at training brat?”

“Oops. By Harry!” Naruto bolted from the room leaving Harry to laugh.

“I’m guessing you want to talk to me alone?”

“As far as the village knows you are a travel who was attacked by bandits on the road and found by Team 7. Despite your ties to a known criminal I am allowing you to stay here.”

“With Kakashi keeping an eye on me? I understand ma’am, I’d probably do the same if I were you.”

“If Itachi were to attack what would you do?” She studied him closely, glad to see he was thinking about his answer and not just giving the answer he thought she wanted to hear.

“I…I couldn’t just sit by and watch him hurt children but I wouldn’t want to fight him either. I don’t know if I could. Guess it’d come down to bodily placing myself between him and his target and finding out if he’s willing to kill me or not.” Harry swallowed his pain. He would never stand by and watch people die but the idea of fighting Itachi made him feel sick.

“I understand. If Konoha were to fall under attack in general?” That needed less thought.

“I’d help in any way I could.” He met her eyes and she smiled.

“Good. I hope you never have to find out if he could kill you or not.” She moved to leave.
“Since the bandits took everything but the clothes from your back you will be given money to buy clothes and other necessities until you can work out what to do for work.”

“Thank you.”

Kakashi walked into Harry’s room to see the teen sitting up and staring at what looked like normal hospital paperwork with a blank look on his face. His gaze focused on Kakashi and the older man smiled behind his mask at the look of utter relief on the teens face.

“Help please!”

“What’s wrong?” He leant over; sure enough they were standard forms.

“How about I have no clue what any of this says?”

“You can’t read?” Kakashi raised an eyebrow, that didn’t make any sense considering they had first met in a school.

“I can’t read this, whatever it is. Turns out I cast a translation charm without realising it which is why we can understand each other. Unfortunately I don’t know any that will work on written material. We don’t normally speak the same language. I think yours is similar to Japanese but I’m not positive and even if it were it still wouldn’t help since I never learned it. Could you read the questions and write my answers? Please?” Kakashi stared at him, that could cause problems. Without being able to read he wouldn’t be able to live alone and even going shopping would be difficult. Someone would have to teach him and the spoken version too, he couldn’t rely on whatever it was he said he done for the rest of his life. Kakashi thought about it as he helped Harry with the paperwork. Maybe Iruka would be willing to help; they’d become friends through Naruto.
“All that just for one stay in hospital.” Harry shook his head.
“Remind me not to get hurt or sick.” Kakashi laughed.

“Come on before the staff decide to keep you after all.” Harry jumped up, eager to leave.

“Don’t like hospitals?”

“Spent to much time in the hospital wing at school. Madam Pomphrey put a plaque on my bed there saying it was mine.” Harry smiled at the memory.

“I was going to suggest we walk but since you seem to have no clothes that may not be the best idea.”

“Actually my clothes were returned and I was given money to buy some more. They put them in that closet.” Kakashi grabbed the clothing and turned his back as Harry dressed. The clothing was ripped in places and still had one or two stains but at least it covered everything. He watched as Harry searched through the material and then grinned in triumph.
“Still here.” He pulled something from the material and put it on the floor.
“Resize.” Kakashi moved back as the trunk grew to normal proportions.
“Looks like I can give the money back.” Harry dug through his trunk and pulled out some fresh clothes. Kakashi once again turned around and Harry redressed.
“Much better.” And it was. Dressed in black cargo pants and a green short sleeved shirt he would blend in better than in the torn clothes of before.
“Okay I’m ready.” Harry re-shrank his trunk and hid it on his body. He was curious as to where his wand had ended up but he didn’t seem to be having any trouble with his wandless abilities so he wouldn’t worry, yet.

“Let’s go then.” Harry followed Kakashi put of the hospital and onto the streets, looking around as they walked. People would occasionally greet Kakashi and he’d wave in response and Harry could feel the odd curious look but he was too busy absorbing everything he could about his new home. It was so different from anything he’d ever known.
“Here we are.” Harry obediently followed into the building and up the stairs. Kakashi unlocked the door and undid the various traps while Harry watched.
“This is it. I’ll show you your room and you can get settled or something. Um, I don’t usually have a lot of people around.” Kakashi blushed underneath his mask, even after his rush clean this morning, because he’d forgotten to do it earlier, the place was still messy.

“Reminds me of the dorms. Is there anything I can do to help out? Cook, clean, something?”

“You can cook?”

“Since I could reach the stove.” Harry shrugged; being able to cook wasn’t that big a deal. He followed Kakashi into an empty bedroom and sat down, testing the mattress. He smiled, not to soft but not to firm.
“I don’t know any recipes for your foods though so if you have a cookbook and read the instructions? Or I could try some of the things I know if you want to try something different.”

“You have yourself a job. You cook and I’ll…” Kakashi stared back out into the rest of the apartment.
“I’ll clean.”

“Deal. Look, I know you’re doing this because you were told to but, well thanks.” Kakashi nodded.
“I also know you’re meant to be watching me and I don’t mind. But what will happen when you’re on missions and stuff? I can’t go with you so will someone else watch me?”

“Probably. The Hokage didn’t tell me but I’m sure she has thought about it.” Harry nodded and they fell silent.
“Unpack.” Kakashi left him to get used to his room. Harry sighed and pulled his trunk out. He was worried about Itachi; he’d been too exhausted since waking in Konoha for them to share dreams so the Shinobi must be going crazy with worry. Harry chuckled slightly; he didn’t envy Kisame at the moment. After talking with Kakashi he’d worked out that he was only missing three days of memory and that he’d been unconscious for a week in the hospital. Hopefully he would be able to talk to Itachi tonight. How would he react to knowing Harry was in Konoha? Would he come for him or ask him to leave? He wasn’t sure he would want to leave but if it meant being with Itachi? But how could he? Itachi was living on the run and he would just slow them down. Maybe he could move to a town where Itachi would be able to come and go a lot easier. Then again he could keep an eye on Sasuke for Itachi and maybe do something about that seal. He had managed to remove Severus’ Dark Mark after all.

Harry hung and folded his clothes, leaving the more outlandishly wizarding articles in his trunk except for his winter cloak with the school symbol and his house scarf, those were placed with his muggle clothes. He placed his framed photo of his parents and himself, a photo of Severus, Mooney, Draco, Hermione and himself and a photo of him and Sirius on the table beside the bed along with the novel he’d been reading. A few texts and writing materials were placed on the small desk along with his spell workbook. He felt tears gather as he came across a pack of owl treats. He had no idea what had happened to his loyal companion, he could only hope she was safe and well looked after. He left the money and gems in their container in the trunk and then shrank it again, placing it on a chain to rest around his neck. The chain was spelled to only come off for him but he simply hadn’t had the time to attach his trunk at Hogwarts, if he hadn’t spent the entirety of seventh year living out of it instead of unpacking all of his possessions would have been lost. Hopefully he’d be able to sell some of the gems, gold and silver for the local currency so that he’d have enough to live off until he worked out his new life. He definitely needed some new clothes more along the lines of what others his age here wore. Most of his muggle clothing was of the dressier look simply because he had been in an upper class area for the summer and had had a lot of business to conduct. He’d only bought what he’d needed, thinking to buy more the coming summer after graduation. Once finished he left his room in search of his babysitter. Harry mentally scolded himself, that wasn’t nice. Kakashi seemed to be trying to treat him as just a flat mate so he would do the same.

Itachi froze for a second before leaning back into the embrace and then spinning around, grabbing the other in a fierce hug. He pulled back just enough to claim willing lips in a kiss.

“I thought…. Where have you been? Are you hurt?” If it were anyone else it would be babbling but Itachi did not babble. Harry relaxed in his embrace, thankful for the one familiar thing in his life.

“Merlin I’ve missed you.” Harry breathed and Itachi smiled.

“You’re alive. It’s been so long I started to think you were dead.” They sat beneath their tree, Harry mostly in his lap.

“Hey, this is me we’re talking about. You know, ‘the boy-who-just-won’t-freakin-die’. As for where I am well…”

“Harry? Voldemort captured you.” Itachi felt a stab of fear, what had Harry been suffering?

“What? No, Itachi I’m safe. I’m, well… I just got discharged today. From Konoha hospital.”

“You were hurt? How?” Itachi stopped suddenly and thought back over what Harry had just said.
“Wait…Konoha!”

“Yep. Kakashi and his team found me in the forest nearly dead and brought me back for treatment. The Hokage has me staying with him since they’re not 100 sure I can be trusted but at least they didn’t lock me up.”

“You’re really here? Real and solid?”

“Real and solid. I met Sasuke, he reminds me a bit of you when we first met. Tsunade asked me what our relationship was so I told her how we met and about the training you gave me since she already knew. I left out magic and that we’re well together. She asked me what I would do if you attacked.” Itachi had tightened his grip, worried about Harry being in his home village. He would be the perfect bait for a trap and surely Tsunade realised that.

“What did you say?”

“That I wouldn’t help you but I wouldn’t fight you. I would however stand between you and any children. And for the record, your brother counts as a kid in my books. So no goading him into a fight, I just spent nearly a month in hospital already.” Itachi nodded, it was the safest answer Harry could have given and knowing Harry completely honest.

“What happened Harry? How did you get here? Is Voldemort dead?”

“I don’t know. There’s a three-day gap in my memory. Tsunade thinks it’s from trauma and that the memories will return when I’m ready to deal with them. Which could be a long time since a part of me is very scared of those memories.”

“You’ll have to remember eventually Harry. What have people been told about your presence? Do they know you know me?”

“Only Tsunade and Kakashi know about that. Anyone who asks is being told I’m a travel who was attacked on the road and found by Kakashi’s team.”

“Sounds like they plan for you to live there.” Itachi said quietly.

“Yeah. I like it so far but…but I wish I could see you, really see you.”

“Maybe you can. They won’t have you watched forever. Or you could ask to move to a non-shinobi village.”

“Or maybe you’ll be able to clear your name and come back.” Itachi smiled sadly.

“You know how likely that is. Even if I did prove my innocence of the massacre, there are still my actions since. They could give nothing but the death sentence.” Harry nodded sadly.
“Could you keep an eye on him for me, as much as you can?”

“You didn’t have to ask. I’ll see if I can tag him with a tracking spell as well.” They fell silent, content to just be together. Harry only moved when he realised he was beginning to drift into a deeper sleep.
“What do I say if they ask if we’ve met again?”

“You’ll have to tell the truth. Tell them that I will not put you in the position to choose between us.” Harry nodded and kissed Itachi before beginning to fade out.

-----------------

Harry yawned as he staggered out towards the kitchen, still partially asleep. He froze and was instantly fully awake as he saw Kakashi and the Hokage waiting for him.

“Ma’am?” Harry questioned although he was pretty sure he knew why she was here.

“Did you see him?” Harry sighed.

“Yes. He knows I’m here and said to tell you that he will not put me in a position where I have to choose. I told him I will not help him but that I will not fight him either and he accepts that.” Harry kept eye contact the entire time.

You believe him?” Kakashi asked.

“Yes. He has never lied to me.”

“Then do you know why he did it?” There was no chance of misunderstanding the question. Harry smiled sadly.

“I swore to say nothing about that night and I will not break my word. I am sorry.” She nodded.

“When Kakashi is away on missions you will be at the Academy, helping the staff as they see fit. I explained your training as childhood teachings from your family. After you were orphaned you decided to travel and have done so since. That will explain your knowledge, just avoid any Konoha specific jutsu’s such as katon.”

“Yes ma’am.” Harry smiled, he honestly didn’t mind helping out. He knew the idea behind it was that there was plenty of staff to keep an eye on him without their even realising that was what they were doing. That wouldn’t stop him from enjoying the experience. Maybe that was what he could do for a living, become a teacher.
“Do you know where I could exchange these for currency?” Harry held out his hand where he’d been hiding some gems and Galleons. He fought not to laugh as their eyes widened.
“I am the head of two old families back home, with that comes responsibilities and money.” Harry shrugged.

“Kakashi can show you. I better get back before Shizune sends the ANBU to find me. Have fun.” With that she left.

“So do you cook breakfast or what?” Harry asked the still shocked Kakashi, smiling at the older man.

“Morning!” Harry groaned at Kakashi’s overly cheerful wake up call and tried to burrow deeper into his covers. He was not allowed to escape back into sleep though as they were torn off him and the blinds covering the window thrown open, the window angled so precisely that the morning sunlight all but blinded him.

“Go way!” He mumbled, head now shoved under the pillow.

“You’ve slept over ten hours Harry! Time to get up!” He pulled the pillow from the teen’s head and had to bite back a laugh as a disgruntled Harry sat up. The kid’s bed hair was rather interesting, as was the sleepy glare.

“Why are you so cheerful?” Harry grumbled as he dragged himself out of bed, grabbing some clean clothes and heading for the bathroom.

“With such a wonderful cook in the house how could I not be cheerful?” Harry didn’t need to be able to see Kakashi’s face to know that he was smiling.
“We are getting your finances taken care of, getting you some more clothes and then joining my team for training. You get to watch.”

“Joy.” Harry drawled and slammed the bathroom door in Kakashi’s face. The older man chuckled and then pulled out his book. Harry was definitely not a morning person but that was what made it so much fun. The teen had only been with him for one full day but he seemed to be settling in okay. Kakashi had taken a brief look around after Harry had unpacked; there was nothing out of the ordinary that he could find. Of course the books could contain anything, it wasn’t like he could understand them.

Kakashi was waiting for him in the kitchen when he re-emerged, dressed in one of two casual outfits that he owned; he had worn the other yesterday and on the walk from the hospital. Today it was dark blue jeans, hiking boots and a Gryffindor red t-shirt. He had a small bag with him that Kakashi assumed had his valuables in it.

“So, is it true you’re always late for training?” Harry asked as he began making breakfast.

“No, who told you that?” Harry shot him a disbelieving look.

“Naruto and Sakura. Seeing as Sasuke actually nodded I get the feeling you’re lying.”

“Maybe.” Kakashi smiled behind his mask.

“So what time are we meant to meet them?”

“One.” Harry just nodded and served the food. Mentally he subtracted three hours and then locked at the clock. It was doable, just.

“YOUR’E….on time?” Naruto had simply gone quiet; it was Sakura who had continued speaking.

“What?” Kakashi stared at them and then at Harry. The teen was obviously fighting a smile. How had he? Kakashi shook his head and Harry cracked up.
“Well, let’s go. Sasuke, Naruto start sparing.” Harry moved away and sat down, pulling supplies from his bag. Kakashi moved so that he could keep an eye on him and his students while still being able to read.

“I may not be able to read the language but I can tell from the cover that is not appropriate reading material when around kids.” Harry commented as he began to work.

“So?” Harry just smiled and Kakashi watched him closely, tightening his grip on the beloved book.
“What are you doing?”

“Finishing my final project. It was meant to be done for graduation but wasn’t due to the whole invasion so I figured I might as well finish it now.”

“And the point of that is?”

“It’ll be useful if it works. If it doesn’t, well it wouldn’t be the first time I nearly blew myself up.” Kakashi’s eyes widened. Just what was he working on? As if he’d read his mind Harry continued speaking.
“I was trying to combine apparation with a type of scrying. Usually you need co-ordinates or a mental image of a place to focus on. I’m trying to make it so you can apparate to a person.” Harry looked up and smiled.
“Relax, I got through the riskiest bits at school under supervision, it’s mainly the fine tuning left.” Kakashi nodded but decided to keep a very close watch, just in case. McGonagall had been surprised when he had chosen his project but he had a very good reason behind it. Originally he was hoping to use it after the war to hopefully get to Itachi. That was still the purpose behind the spell since he had yet to figure out any other way to see him but at least he wouldn’t be running the extra risk of travelling between worlds. Harry winced, his hands flying to his head as a sharp pain lanced through it.

“Harry?” He moaned slightly, fighting back the pain.

“Kakashi-sensei? Harry!” Sakura’s call had the other two stopping their fight and coming closer.

“Harry can you hear me?” The teen blinked at Kakashi. When had he gotten so close?

“I’m okay.” He lowered his hands and went to stand but swayed and would have fallen if Kakashi hadn’t caught him.

“Take it easy. You three continue training, I’m taking Harry to the hospital.”

“It’s okay Kakashi, it’s just a headache. I was thinking of a friend and then…” Harry met Kakashi’s eye meaningfully and the Shinobi nodded slowly. He realised what Harry was saying.

“You sure?”

“Positive, I’m fine now.” Harry smiled and stood under his own power.

“Alright, back to training.”

Kakashi opened the door and slipped into the room silently. He frowned as he saw Harry tossing on the bed, tangled in the sheets. He was sweating and obviously locked in a nightmare just like the previous three nights. Ever since his headache. They both knew it was Harry’s repressed memories trying to come forward but that didn’t make it any better. They were both losing a lot of sleep but the teen was incredibly stubborn when he wanted to be and he flat out refused to go back to the hospital. But if something didn’t change soon he’d force him to go. Dealing with a cranky Harry was not his idea of fun.

“Umino Iruka?” Iruka looked at the hesitant teen in his doorway. He smiled at the boy and tried to work out who he was before coming to the conclusion that he had never seen him before.

“Can I help you?” He accepted the note and then smiled.
“So you’re the Harry Naruto won’t stop talking about. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

“You too sir, Naruto speaks highly of you.” Harry answered politely. Iruka had known the teen would be coming to help today, he’d just plain forgotten about it.

“You have some ninja training correct?” Harry nodded.
“But you were never formally schooled?”

“No sir, my parents taught me.”

“Well why don’t you listen in on the lecture. We’ll be doing practical work later and I could do with an extra pair of eyes to watch them.”

“Sure.” Harry sat off to the side and was soon engrossed in the lesson. Because of time restraints Itachi had focused far more on the practical side of his training so a lot of it was new to him.

“So you’re staying with Kakashi? Iruka asked as they watched the children practice.

“Yes sir.”

“Call me Iruka. He hasn’t driven you insane yet?” Harry laughed.

“No, not yet. Though you should have seen the looks on his teams faces when he showed up on time last week.” Iruka stared at him on shock.

“How?” Harry just smiled.

“My secret. It’s not that bad actually. We made a deal, I cook and he cleans. This way we avoid food poisoning and can actually see the floor now. He’s a nice guy really.”

“Yeah. He actually asked me about helping you with something.” Iruka watched as Harry blushed slightly.

“I…I can’t read your language.” Harry said quietly.
“It’s not the same as back home.” He pulled out one of his books to prove his point.
“I need to learn or I’m going to be stuck relying on other people to tell me what things say and I can’t live like that.” Iruka nodded in understanding.

“Are you doing anything this evening?”

“No.”

“Then we can have our first lesson.” Harry smiled at him.

“Thanks.”

“It’s no problem.”

Kakashi was up and halfway into Harry’s room when the teen slammed into him before bolting into the bathroom. Harry’s scream had probably woken their neighbours but at the moment he was more concerned with his flatmate. Sure the boy had been having nightmares nearly every night but he had never screamed like that before. Kakashi grabbed a glass of water from the kitchen before joining him in the bathroom. He knelt beside Harry and awkwardly rubbed his back as the teen continued to heave. When he was finished Kakashi handed him the glass and wet a cloth for is face. The whole time Harry remained silent, worrying the older man.

“Harry?”

“I remember.” Harry whispered, shivering slightly and staring off into space.