Hello. I

here's chapter 8. I hope you like it.

Enjoy and review.

ShinoAndMe: There's a reply for Chaotic Harmony at the end.

My gratitude is again at the bottom of the page.


Chapter 8:

Operation: Rescuing Hyuuga Neji

.

"You know, I should give you flowers," said Kiba, "Or maybe a box of chocolates."

"I wouldn't mind an ice cream," said Sayuri.

Shino glared at them murderously.

Kurenai and Hinata gave him apologetic glances. However, Kurenai was smirking inwardly.

The Aburame had been 'ambushed' by his team so that Sayuri could accelerate the healing process of his shoulder. He'd ended up tied to a bed with glowing strings and while he hadn't exactly been forced to strip down, Kiba had helped Sayuri to get rid of his coat and they even tore one of the sleeves of his dark jacket.

Once Kurenai had confirmed that Tsunade had rescheduled Shino's taijutsu exam, the rest of her students and Ito Sayuri had formulated a plan to 'ambush' Shino before he left the hospital. Sayuri had even threatened to sic Itsuki on him and let slip that he loved sweetheart cake. Kiba had told him that he needed more time to practice because after hearing what Akira had done to Neji, Sayuri and Tenten, he agreed that Shino would end up looking like a statue. Finally, Hinata told him that she agreed with Kiba.

As much as Shino would've loved to complain about the absurdity of their method, he couldn't help feel grateful for the measures they were taking to make sure that he passed his taijutsu exam. Besides, it was there again.

The sensation as if butterflies were walking on his shoulder, easing the pain he still felt on his shoulder. Very relaxing, very pleasant.

"You know, it's a nice change to have someone like you as my patient," Sayuri told him truthfully, "You stay calm and don't whine, you only glare but I spent a good part of my time with two Hyuuga so I'm practically immune to any belittling gesture."

"Shino's always been like that, you know," commented Kurenai, "He's always been so calm and collected, very stoic."

Sayuri nodded and with her strings, she inspected Shino's hands. "They finally healed."

"The problem is his shoulder," said Kurenai.

"That's right," said Sayuri and she stopped healing him, just to begin applying a scentless ointment on his shoulder, "It's true that I want to accelerate the recovery of your shoulder but I must be careful, I suspect your kikaichu make it difficult. They should avoid being there, you know." She began massaging his shoulder. "That's why your hands took so long to heal, they're delicate." She glared Kiba when he snickered.

"By the way, how's Midori?" asked Kiba.

"She's better but her eyes will take a while to recover," said Sayuri, frowning, "Her family's taking care of her and I visit her every day to make sure that she's fine." She applied slightly more chakra to Shino's shoulder. "For now, you should wait a while before you start training with that shoulder. I think I'll check it in a couple of days and you might want to apply this ointment before you sleep."

"Can you untie me now?"

Kiba snorted.

"Sure."

"Kiba."

"Yes?"

"You're going to pay for my jacket."

"Sayuri helped with that, too."

"She's my medic."

"You're sulking because I made fun of you."

"I do not sulk. Hinata and Kurenai-sensei agree with me."

"Do you agree with Shino?"

Kiba snorted again when Hinata suddenly found the ceiling very interesting and Kurenai made her way to the door.

"So, I guess I'll invite Sayuri an ice cream. Maybe two, Shikamaru told me that she fed you."


"So it wasn't Nadeshiko?" said Kiba as he finished his ice cream, "Are they sure? Shino told us that she works for the T & I Force."

"Neji supervised the interrogatory so there's no doubt about it," said Sayuri, "He's a lie detector and Nadeshiko knows him so…"

"What about her subordinates?" asked Shino.

"They're also innocent."

"You don't seem very worried," Kiba commented and Akamaru barked.

"I'm not important," said Sayuri, shrugging, "Kurenai-san told me that Shino-kun thought that the genjutsu was flawed so maybe…maybe I wasn't the target."

"I also expected you to be more worried about that attack," commented Shino.

"It's not that important," said Sayuri, "By the way, Itsuki's siblings want to meet you. He told them about your affair with Midori-san."

"That sounds wonderful," muttered Shino, deadpanned.

"Right," said Kiba, smirking, "You've never told us more about his family. We know Midori and Midoriko but we don't know the rest."

"Well, the ones who want to meet Shino-kun are Misao-san, she's Midoriko-san's mother," said Sayuri, "And there's also Hideki-san, he's older than Midori-san but slightly younger than Itsuki."

"Is Misao-san married or committed?" asked Shino.

Kiba blanched. "Oi, since when did you become so…so…"

"I'm asking because I want to know if she'll also start pecking me because of my kikaichu," said Shino, "Midoriko behaves but her aunt is very affectionate so I was wondering about her mother."

"Misao-san is happily married, even if she hates her mother-in-law," said Sayuri, amused, "Hideki-san's usually away so I don't know him very well."

"So I guess that we can tell his fangirls that he's taken and that he's even going to meet the family of Midori," joked Kiba, "They filled your room with flowers, I was starting to get dizzy with all those scents. Anyway, I think you regretted giving back the bugs that some of them gave you."

Shino said nothing.

"You told me that you didn't have one of the beetles and that it was very rare," said Hinata.

"Hanako-san told me that she got it a couple of weeks ago," said Shino, "I might be able to look for one after the jounin exam."

"Hanako-san?" said Sayuri, thoughtfully, "The name sounds familiar."

"Itsuki and Midori-san met her," said Shino.

"So she's the one who angered Midori-san," said Sayuri.

"That's correct," said Shino.

There was a crash and the quartet immediately turned to see a girl with long, lilac hair hitting a boy. They sweatdropped when they noticed that the boy was wearing a basket upside down, covering most of his face, as if it were some kind of helmet. There were cans and other kind of things on the floor.

"You never let me have fun!" said the girl.

"Kaoru, you're making a scandal," replied the boy in a tired tone, "I told you, we must find Takehiko."

"He must be making out with some bimbo somewhere," replied the girl, "Now, let's go back to that store. I saw some pretty ribbons that would go well with my hair."

"Women," muttered the boy, "You're so annoying."

Kiba exchanged glances with Shino, Sayuri and Hinata. "Let's go." They were about to walk away when they heard another crash and then, a hysterical cry from the girl named Kaoru.

"You're bleeding! Tell me I didn't hit you that hard!"

"Next time, check what you have in your bags," said the boy, clearly irritated.

"Shikamaru's right, Shino," commented Kiba with a wince, "We're so lucky that we got Hinata." Shino nodded. "Hey, Sayuri, where are you going?"

Team Kurenai observed how Sayuri went with Kaoru and after frowning at her, she began healing the injured boy. Kaoru turned her glance to Team Kurenai and grinned sheepishly at them.

"There you go," Sayuri told the boy, who'd remained very still. "Is something wrong? It shouldn't hurt anymore." And she pushed the basket upwards.

Pale blue eyes stared back at her, observing carefully her features.

Amber eyes.

Black hair.

Cute braid.

He felt tingling chakra act on his face, healing a few bruises, courtesy of Kaoru.

'A medic nin? And I could swear that someone mentioned the name 'Sayuri'…But…she's not short…and she's…'

"…gorgeous."

Kaoru dropped her jaw.

The boy's cheeks flushed slightly when he realized that he had said that word aloud for the medic nin in front of him was blushing and looking away, even though she was still pushing the basket upwards. He stepped backwards clumsily and he tripped when he stepped on a couple of cans. The basket fell on him like a helmet again and he cursed himself for his clumsiness.

Meanwhile, Kaoru had finally closed her mouth and was glancing Sayuri as if evaluating her looks. Finally, the boy removed the basket from his head and revealed auburn hair and he carefully stood up.

"I'm sorry," he said and he glared Kaoru when she dropped her jaw for the second time, "I…uh…I meant that your braid is gorgeous."

Kiba rolled his eyes and Shino raised an amused eyebrow.

The boy blushed even more when he realized how stupid he'd sounded. He forced himself to calm down and when finally, thankfully, the blush from his cheeks disappeared, he spoke again.

"My name is Daichi."

Kaoru dropped her jaw once more.

Daichi glared her, as if blaming her for his actions. Then, he returned his glance to Sayuri. "Thank you for healing me." And he bowed before taking out a few coins from his pocket. "But I don't have much money right now so-"

"No, it's okay, I don't want anything," said Sayuri as she took in the state of his clothes. She gave him her ice cream. "Here, for being so…cooperative. You didn't complain about the pain so…"

Daichi glanced the ice cream. "I'm not five," he said, "But it's been a while since I had one…" When he raised his eyes, Sayuri was already with Team Kurenai, practically using Shino as a human shield. "Wait! One of those boys called you Sayuri, right?"

"That's right," said Shino and he tilted his head, amused when Sayuri tugged his coat frantically. He sighed inwardly. "And her boyfriend's a very jealous man."

Daichi nodded and watched them leave. Kaoru clapped his shoulder. "You were re-jec-ted!" And she patted him. "I thought you didn't believe in love at first sight."

Daichi rolled his eyes at her. "Yes, it was love at first sight," he said, sarcastically, "And I'm sure that if you focus enough, you'll hear the violins playing in the background, mimicking the state of my broken heart."

"You're a jerk," said Kaoru and her blue eyes glanced him with mirth, "You called her gorgeous."

Daichi's eyebrow twitched. "She's Ito Sayuri."

Kaoru blinked. "So that girl…"

"Takehiko told me that she was in the hospital with Neji," commented Daichi, "I suppose that the jealous boyfriend is him, the other girl was a Hyuuga."

"Aww…you sound jealous," mocked Kaoru.

"Shut up," said Daichi, "I was shocked to see her, that's all."

"Right," said Kaoru, "Takehiko told me that he'd like to meet Nadeshiko."

"That fool, she's a Yamanaka, she could find out about us," said Daichi, exasperated, "Let's clear this mess."

"Aren't you going to finish that ice cream?" said Kaoru, "Because if you don't want it, I-"

Daichi began tasting the dessert.

"Chocolate."

.

"I think you have an admirer," teased Kiba.

Sayuri blushed.

"You know, I don't understand why you get so easily flustered," said Kiba, "Even though you wear cloaks, you're pretty so you should be used to that."

"Not really," said Sayuri, "Midoriko-san wasn't lying when she told you that I used to look like a child and before I left Konoha, Nadeshiko was the one who got that kind of attentions. She's always been so beautiful while I was the cute type, I guess." And she tugged at her new black cloak. "I miss the white one…"

"Itsuki mentioned that it was Byakugan-proof," commented Shino.

"This one too," said Sayuri, glancing Hinata sideways, "It's not as good as the other one but for now…"

"You're so paranoid," said Kiba, "Hinata's nice."

"Maybe," conceded Sayuri, "But you should ask her about Hyuuga Yuuto."

"Yuuto-san? So he's the reason…"

"Who's that guy?" asked Kiba.

"He's a member of the main house and his father's a member of the council," said Sayuri, scowling, "He…he liked activating Soujiro's seal whenever he could because Soujiro beat him once in a spar and heavens forbid that a member of the main house be defeated by someone of the branch house."

"What did you do to help your friend?" asked Kiba, "Because you did something, right?"

"Soujiro told me before he told Nadeshiko," said Sayuri, "But only because I practically made him tell me and after doing this and that, we could finally talk with Hiashi-sama but he practically ignored us." She clenched her fists. "A-And I told him that I would tell the Hokage because Soujiro was a shinobi so he promised to investigate and Hyuuga Yuuto stopped bullying Soujiro."


"I came as soon as I could," said Sayuri, "What's wrong?"

"They know that you're married," said Tsunade and she raised a hand, "Neji is fine and Hiashi's almost here so calm down. From this moment on, you'll be my goddaughter."

"W-What?"

"This will only last until this is solved, of course," said Tsunade, "I lost too many bets with your father so I guess I won't mind as long as you behave." She shrugged. "Shizune convinced me…" And she mumbled the word 'paperwork'.

Sayuri nodded. "Can you do that? Can you be my godmother for just some time?"

"Of course I can," said Tsunade, "I'm the Hokage and one of the sannin, no one will object. Besides, it's not as if I was adopting you."

"Neji's here, right?"

But Tsunade ignored her and nodded at her assistant. Shizune gave Sayuri a worried glance before leaving the office. After a few minutes, Shizune entered accompanied by Hyuuga Hiashi. After taking a seat, the Hyuuga observed the youngest medic nin.

"It's been a while since I last saw you," he said. "Last time, you made quite a scandal at my house. To think that you return as Neji's wife," commented Hiashi and with a wave of his hand, he added, "Don't bother to deny it, I've already confirmed it."

"Where's Neji? Is he fine?" demanded Sayuri, "If you dare to hurt-"

"Neji's fine," interrupted Hiashi coldly, "You're fortunate that I was the first to receive that information or the consequences would've been severe to say the least."

"How did you find out?" asked Sayuri in a less hostile tone.

"Neji's considered the prodigy of my clan, he's important and that's all you need to know," replied Hiashi, "I'd suggest you to remember that I do not have to answer the questions of an orphan girl with no name and no fortune."

"No name?" muttered Sayuri angrily before Shizune shot her a look that calmed her down slightly, "I didn't know that the Hyuuga name meant nothing nowadays."

"I'm talking about your father's last name, he was an ordinary shinobi," replied Hiashi, "Before you speak again, I'd also suggest you to remember that the matter of your marriage with Neji is the most important thing in this moment."

"Sayuri…" called Tsunade, "Calm down. I've already informed Hiashi that you want to nullify your marriage."

"And I can't allow that," said the Hyuuga, "Not now that the whole council knows. I told them that I personally arranged your marriage a few years ago due to your skills."

Blink. Blink. Blink.

"Don't forget to breathe, girl," said Hyuuga Hiashi, "I wouldn't like Neji to become a widower so soon."

"So soon? Is that a threat?" asked Sayuri.

"No," replied the Hyuuga patriarch, "I've heard from Tsunade-sama that Jiraiya-sama's praised your skills and that you were of great service to the Aburame clan. Also, we can tell the council that you have some political influence so disposing of you wouldn't be the best of ideas."

"Political influence? What are you talking about?" asked Sayuri, confused, "Weren't you the one who said that my father was an ordinary shinobi? And so was my mother, she was genjutsu mistress, true…but she had no power or wealth."

"Tsunade-sama is your godmother."

Sayuri turned to see Tsunade with shock. "Y-You told him that?"

"Is something wrong, Tsunade-sama?" asked Hiashi, frowning, "You sent me a message earlier telling me that."

Sayuri glanced Hiashi and then, Tsunade. The sannin was so clever, so clever. Tsunade had lied in the message but now, if anyone asked her, she would be her godmother, even if it only lasted for a while. She was starting to appreciate loopholes a lot.

"She didn't know that I'd told you," said Tsunade, all businesslike, "We've never been close, she travels a lot."

Hiashi nodded. "You'll move to Neji's room this afternoon so you might want to start packing, girl."

"Sayuri," said Sayuri and with a glare, she spoke again, "My name is Ito Sayuri and you can't force me to live with him."

"Of course I can't," conceded the Hyuuga, "However, I can persuade you and I think you know what I mean."

"Neji's the prodigy of your clan, you wouldn't hurt him," replied Sayuri but there was uncertainty in her voice. "And I'll never start a family with a Hyuuga so…so you should help us to nullify our marriage."

"What would happen if I signed a document where it was specified that your children wouldn't be sealed?" asked Hiashi.

"Why would you do such thing?" asked Sayuri.

"Consider it Neji's wedding gift," said Hiashi, "I think that no one in my clan would object it if you prove to be skilled enough. Neji's a genius and apparently, you are a skilled kunoichi."

"Genetics…and he's your nephew," murmured Sayuri, thoughtfully. "He's your brother's son, he's the son of the man who took your place."

Hiashi answered with a glare.

"I think I touched a nerve," murmured Sayuri, arms folded, "Didn't you say something like that when Soujiro died? A member of the branch house…he wasn't important...he-"

"Sayuri…" interrupted Tsunade menacingly.

"Hiashi-sama talked with Neji and he thinks that Neji likes you," commented Shizune.

Sayuri blinked before giving her an incredulous glance.

"He is unreasonably fond of you," commented Hiashi with disdain, "He is very troubled, he fears for your safety."

"That doesn't necessarily means that he has romantic feelings for me," replied Sayuri, "And just so you know, Neji used to be slightly overprotective of me before Soujiro died so it's not much of a surprise that he's worried…" And then, she added. "I left Konoha and the next time I saw him, he was a jerk…that's why Itsuki dislikes him so much."

"Itsuki?" repeated Hiashi.

"One of my summons," said Sayuri and then, with a sarcastic tone, she added, "He dislikes him because Neji was so enthusiastic when he saw me…so enthusiastic that I was alive and breathing that he…" she trailed off and shrugged. "I should've kicked him harder…"

Tsunade shook her head at her. "The solution you had in mind to nullify your marriage is no longer an option, the Hyuuga clan will not let you use it."

"You can say that I'm frigid, I don't care," Sayuri told Hiashi.

"If you married someone else and had children, people would ridicule him," replied Hiashi, "I don't understand your aversion towards Neji. After all, he's smart, talented and a natural genius. Moreover, he's good-looking and he's a Hyuuga." He tilted his head. "You resent him for something he told you, you are so easy to read, girl. However, that's not a good enough reason to reject him." The Hyuuga easily repressed a smirk when he was glared. "Perhaps he told you that he wished that Soujiro was alive instead-"

"What would happen if I refused to live in the Hyuuga compound?" interrupted Sayuri.

"After voting unanimously, the council would ask him to make you live with him," said Hiashi, "I am the leader but I hope you are able to understand that we are Hyuuga and that's all the explanation I'll give you."

"So…so what would make the council vote for the annulment of my marriage?" asked Sayuri, "Can we tell them the truth? We were forced to marry so that must count. Besides, Neji's the prodigy of your clan and considering that you care so much about protecting your bloodline, the council might want to marry him with a Hyuuga or someone else."

"One of the elders investigated you and he's pleased with your background," commented Hiashi, "So pleased that he thinks that you're an excellent match for Neji."

"What does he know about me?"

"It's true that nowadays, the Ito name means nothing," began Hiashi and he smirked inwardly at the murderous glare that Sayuri sent him, "However, there was a clan with that name. A clan with no power or wealth, a clan that was even of less importance than the Yamanaka or the Kurama. They developed a technique that they used on the pregnant women of their clan to enlarge their unborn children's chakra passageways."

"It's not a technique," said Sayuri, "Actually, my dad told me that it was something more like a bloodline and it's not like we had enormous chakra capacity. 'Our chakra reserves are slightly bigger than many people', that's what he told me."

"It doesn't matter," said Hiashi, "Do you remember Hyuuga Yuuto?"

"Of course, he loved torturing Soujiro with that lovely seal."

"Remember that we're here because of your marriage," replied Hiashi, "Yuuto told his father that your chakra system was peculiar after you blamed him for Soujiro's death. Yuuma-san is an elder and I think that you can figure out the rest of the story without further explanation."

"And what does Neji think about this?" asked Sayuri, "I'm talking about sharing his room with me. He can't possibly want that."

"He'll get used to it."

"So…how did you find out?"

"I told you, I don't have to answer that question," said Hiashi.

"Tsunade-sama?" said Sayuri.

"Apparently, you have to live with Neji in the meantime," said the Hokage and she smirked, "You must live under the same roof."

"So Neji can move to my apartment, right?" said Sayuri.

Hiashi frowned. "That's unheard of. He is a Hyuuga."

"I'm terribly paranoid and I cherish my privacy," replied Sayuri dramatically in what she hoped was a good imitation of Itsuki.

"No one's going to spy on you," said Hiashi, feeling insulted, "We are Hyuuga, our behavior is impeccable."

"What if I proved to be so skilled that I could be considered a danger to your clan?" said Sayuri, considering the option. "I'm stupidly reckless, you can ask Tsunade-sama. Or you can ask your precious daughter. Hinata-sama has seen that I can be very impulsive and reckless."

"I didn't know that you knew Hinata," admitted Hiashi. "You don't like her…is it because of her place in my clan?"

"And because she's nosy and communicative," said Sayuri, nodding. "Your daughter's an excellent example of-" She was interrupted by a smack on the head, courtesy of Shizune. "Sensei…"

"It's not polite to badmouth people," said the Hokage's assistant, "What are you going to do?"

"I'll go home and pack my things."


"I'm not sure if I understand your style…it's a bit weird," commented Hinata.

"I think it's tricky," said Kiba, arms folded behind his head, "Your footwork isn't bad but I think there's still room for improvement."

"Hinata-chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!"

Itsuki appeared out of nowhere, throwing himself at Hinata's face.

"Hinata-chaaaaaaaan! Help me! Sayuri-chan is in trouble!"

As gently as she could, the indigo-haired girl removed him from her face.

"Hinata-chaaaaaaaaaaaan!"

"Calm down," said Shino, "What's wrong?"

The mantis sniffed.

"Midoriko-chan was at Sayuri-chan's home but Sayuri-chan didn't know and she heard Sayuri-chan and Shizune-san argue," began Itsuki, "Sayuri-chan said something about facing the Hyuuga council and Shizune-san said something about being too rash for the Hyuuga brat's sake and Sayuri-chan said something about being targeted because of Soujiro and someone named Yuuto!"

"Yuuto?"

"Yes! Midoriko-chan told me that Sayuri-chan insulted that Yuuto brat and she also said that if he was going to give her trouble, she might give him trouble first and that challenging him was a good idea because she's wanted to beat him for ages and-"

"She's going to challenge Yuuto-san? Is she crazy?" interrupted Hinata, "Besides, Neji-nii-san could get in trouble."

"I don't care about the Hyuuga brat! I can't let Sayuri-chan enter that place!" said Itsuki hysterically, "It's full of Hyuuga, they'll kill her!"

"If you're so worried, how come you're not with Sayuri?" asked Kiba.

"Because I want Hinata-chan to help me!" said Itsuki.

"I think you're overreacting," said Shino, "Sayuri-san is impulsive but I think that she has her own limits. Why would she challenge Hyuuga Yuuto?"

"Because he bullied Soujiro! She told me!" said Itsuki, "Now, come with me."

"But why would she act now? Why not when she came back?" asked Shino.

"That's a good question," said Kiba.

"I don't know!" said Itsuki, "I just want you to come with me!"

"I don't think that she'd go to the Hyuuga compound and attack that person, she cares about Neji and she knows that attacking a member of the main house could bring him trouble," said Shino.

"I agree," said Kiba. Akamaru barked.

"Fine! Ignore me!" said Itsuki, sniffing, "I can understand an Aburame being afraid of fighting a Hyuuga but an Inuzuka? I thought you were brave, Kiba!"

"Oi, you're a rookie when it comes to manipulating," said the Inuzuka, "Shino's better than you, anyway."

"Okay! I'm going alone!" said Itsuki, "But if I die, it'll be on your consciences!" He turned to Shino. "And you're an ungrateful brat, Shino-chan!"

"You're hysterical," replied the Aburame.

"Itsuki-kun, I think I can go with you and make sure that Yuuto-san doesn't accept Sayuri-san's challenge," offered Hinata.

"Yay! Hinata-chan is nice!" said the mantis.

"You mentioned Shizune-san," said Shino, "She wouldn't let Sayuri-san do something so stupid."

"You don't know Sayuri-chan!" replied Itsuki, "Let's go, Hinata-chan!"


"What happened?"

When Hinata arrived home with Itsuki, she couldn't believe her ears.

There was laughter.

Scandalous laughter.

The guards that were stationed at the entrance were stunned too. They'd been like that for a while, too shocked to leave their posts.

"That laughter…I could swear that one of the voices belongs to…" began Hinata, horrified, "To my grandfather."

One of the guards nodded, awestruck.

"And my father's also laughing," murmured Hinata, shocked.

"They've been laughing for a while," commented one of the guards.

"What? Why?" asked Hinata, "Arata-san, what happened?"

The guard to her left shook his head. "I don't know but a dark figure left and when we used the Byakugan, we saw nothing."

"You couldn't see?" said Hinata, "Itsuki-kun, do you think that she could've been wearing a new cloak?"

"She?" said guard to her right, "Are you talking about Neji-san's friend? She came earlier."

"You're right, Minoru," said Arata.

Itsuki hit his head against the wall. "What did she do this time?"


"The door's half-open," commented Kiba. Beside him, Shino nodded.

They heard a crash and voices.

"You shouldn't have done that."

"That's Neji's voice," said Kiba.

"You enjoyed it and don't deny it, I saw your face."

"That's Sayuri-san's voice."

"Fine. I admit that it was…entertaining," they heard Neji say.

"You're so uptight. It's not like I'm going to tell them that you played along," they heard Sayuri say, "I'm glad that you understood what I was going to do when I gave you that glance."

"Akira-sensei's a bad influence," they heard Neji say, "Now, could you untie me?"

"No, I think it's better if you stay like that," they heard Sayuri say, "I have the feeling that you'll want to go back home."

"Untie me, Sayuri!"

They heard a crash.

"Sayuri, get off!"

"No!"

"I'll scream for help."

"Suuuure."

Another crash.

"Hey, what are you doing, Sayuri?"

Another crash.

"Neeeeeeeeji! Stop thaaaaaaaaaaat!"

Kiba and Shino heard loud giggles.

"Untie me, then!"

"N-No! Neeeeejiiiiiiiiiiii! Noooot faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaiiiiiiiir!"

The members of Team Kurenai sweatdropped.

"I think Sayuri's fine," commented Kiba.

Shino nodded and a small cloud of kikaichu emerged from his sleeves. "They'll tell Itsuki."

"I don't think that's a good idea," replied Kiba, "Neji's here."

Another crash.

"Hyuuuuuuuuuuga Neeeeeeeeeeeeji!"

"Someone help me!"

"Neeeeji! Eek!"

Laughter.

Another crash.

"Help!"

"Should we help him?" Shino wondered.

Kiba laughed and nodded.

The two chuunin entered the apartment and Kiba dropped his jaw. Shino raised his eyebrows a bit too much.

They could easily overlook the mess of the furniture.

What they couldn't overlook was the fact that Ito Sayuri was on top of Hyuuga Neji, her glowing strings around his body…They also couldn't overlook the fact that Neji was pretty much shirtless, his upper garments looking very torn and crumpled.

And was that a blush appearing on his cheeks?

Kiba scratched his head. "Well, you screamed, you know…that's why we...you know…entered…so…you know, it was your fault...that we saw this so…"

Yep. That was definitely a blush.

Sayuri got off immediately, sporting a blush too.

"Wait! It's not what you're thinking!"

"You might want to change your clothes, Sayuri-san," commented Shino, averting his gaze.

The mantis summoner blushed even more when she realized that her black top was slightly torn, exposing a good part of her stomach. "R-Right!" And she ran to what they assumed was her bedroom.

Kiba approached Neji and clapped him on the shoulder before helping him to get up.

"So…she wasn't going to rape you or something, was she?"


"Unbelievable!"

A couple of members of the branch house were decidedly trying not to wince at the fury that Hyuuga Hiashi's father showed. The former leader of the Hyuuga clan was outraged at the prank that he'd been victim of, along with the rest of the council.

"We've been too lenient with Hizashi's son, Hiashi," Hinata's grandfather said, "Too lenient."

"Neji isn't guilty of the scandalous behavior of his wife," replied Hiashi and he waved dismissively at the two members of the branch house, "I've known her for a long time and she enjoys this kind of things. Besides, we saw how she restrained Neji."

"Then, the lad should learn to control her," said another elder, scowling.

A man to Hiashi's left shook his head. "However, we can't overlook the fact that she did that to protect Neji-kun. She caused no real harm."

"Masaru-san has a point," agreed Hiashi, "Considering that she's a medic nin, that scroll could've contained something much more dangerous. From what Tsunade-sama's told me about her, she likes 'playing' with poisons."

"A threat, then?" wondered the elder that had scowled earlier, "To show us what she can do? To boast her knowledge of poisons?"

"Perhaps," said Masaru and he addressed Hiashi's father, "Hotaka-sama, Neji-kun looked horrified when that smoke filled the room. I'm sure the boy must be completely innocent."

"I agree with Masaru-san," said Hiashi.

"I thought you would," said Hotaka and he addressed the elder that had also criticized Neji, "Yuuma-san? I think you mentioned that your son, Yuuto-kun, knows her."

"That's correct, Hotaka-sama," said Yuuma, "However, it's clear that the information he gave me about her needs to be updated."

An elder that had remained silent spoke. "I request to be the one who researches her skills this time."

"I think that won't be necessary, Nobu-san," replied Hiashi, "You're forgetting that like Neji, Sayuri is going to take the jounin exam. As members of the main house, we only have to be present at her examinations."

"Of course," said Hyuuga Nobu. He addressed another elder that had also remained silent. "What are you thinking, Kuro-san?"

A black-haired man tilted his head. "We've dismissed the fact that she has a strange cloak."

Hiashi frowned.

"A countermeasure for the Byakugan," said Hotaka, scowling.

"I wonder where she obtained it," commented another elder.

"I doubt that she'd tell us, Rikuto-san," said Nobu.

"What should we do regarding Neji? That girl kidnapped him," said Yuuma.

"Young love," said Masaru, "Let them take their time today."

"I disagree, we can't reward their insolence, Masaru-san," said Hotaka.

"Then, what do you propose, Hotaka-sama?" asked Rikuto, "Neji's wife is a kunoichi and she's got a close relationship with two of the sannin."

"Hinata knows her," commented Hiashi.

"Are you proposing that she handles her? That child is so meek," said Hotaka, shaking his head.

"Hinata should be able to," said Hiashi.

"And even if she couldn't, Neji is a member of the branch house," said Nobu, "It's his duty to ensure her safety."


"You didn't interrupt anything!" said Neji.

"Of course we didn't!" said Kiba sarcastically, "Next time, lock the door and don't scream for help."

The Hyuuga glared him but the effect was pretty much ruined by the faint blush on his cheeks.

"Did she kidnap you, Neji?" asked Kiba jokingly, "I think you didn't want to be rescued at all!"

"Shut up!" said the genius, clearly embarrassed, "Why are you here, anyway?"

"Itsuki was worried," said Shino, "Hinata went with him to the Hyuuga compound and we came here."

"Why was he worried?" asked Neji.

"His niece told him something," said Shino, "She told him that Sayuri-san was going to challenge Hyuuga Yuuto. Itsuki also mentioned something about facing the council." He frowned when he saw Neji avert his gaze in embarrassment. "She…"

"She played a prank on the council," said Neji.

"What did she do?" asked Kiba eagerly.

Neji sighed. "After making sure that I was fine, she poked me with a senbon," he said, "Then, she gave Hotaka-sama a scroll and she said that she thought its contents would please him. Hotaka-sama opened it and the council room was filled with a yellowish smoke." He lowered his head. "The whole council erupted in laughter."

"Wait!" said Kiba, amazed, "You mean…you mean…there was a room full of Hyuuga who began…laughing?" Neji nodded and the Inuzuka gave him a shocked glance. A smile appeared on his face and it became wider until he simply began laughing uncontrollably. Akamaru barked happily.

Neji raised his eyebrows when he saw Shino deepen his frown. It had always been hard to read him due to the amount of clothes that he wore. However, he was almost sure that the Aburame was recalling something and thinking about it. Something that he didn't like.

The Hyuuga genius was right. Shino was recalling the night when he'd learned about how dangerous candy canes could be. He also remembered what he'd thought when Sayuri had wrapped her strings around his neck after she began healing his cheek.

A friendly approach to disguise her true intentions.

Kido Akira. An unstoppable swordsman who showed a cheerful, sociable façade to the world.

Yamanaka Nadeshiko. A beautiful genjutsu mistress who specialized in seduction and manipulation.

Ito Sayuri. The enigmatic, mercurial medic nin who was sometimes too unpredictable for his taste…and a possible opponent in the jounin exam.

And how could he forget Itsuki and Midori? Especially Itsuki, who, for all his annoying habits, was quite dangerous.

.

He suddenly caught Neji's interested gaze and turned away.

"Hey, Sayuri, Neji just told us what you did!" commented Kiba gleefully, "Man! That prank's worth of Naruto!"

Shino turned around. Sayuri had returned, wearing a blue, long-sleeved blouse.

"Hmm…I didn't think of it as a prank but when I saw Neji's amused expression, I laughed," she admitted, shrugging, "I don't want to cause him trouble…that's why I thought that I needed to do something inoffensive and I thought that a sleeping or paralyzing bomb could've scared them so..."

"Man, I wish I could've seen that!" said Kiba, "Anyway, why did you do that?"

"Because I thought that I needed to rescue Neji," said Sayuri, shrugging when she saw Kiba give her a confused glance, "I thought they were going to hurt him, I don't trust Hiashi-sama...that's why."

"I don't get it," admitted Kiba, "Why would they want to hurt him?"

"Because of something very stupid," said Sayuri, "The main house is full of bullies who-"

"Hinata's nice!" interrupted Kiba.

"Fiiiine," said Sayuri, rolling her eyes, "Only the men are bullies." Kiba nodded, still looking offended.

"Are you aware that they must be insulted by your sudden attack?" Shino pointed out.

"Yes, that's why Neji will stay with me today," said Sayuri.

"I bet Itsuki will love that," said Kiba, "He was the one who made us look for you."

"Itsuki? But he's in his dimension," said Sayuri, confused. "Unless…" She frowned. "I think I know what happened."

"He sought Hinata's help," said Shino, "Now, if you'll excuse us…"

"Oh, right! We don't want to keep interrupting!" said Kiba jokingly.

Both Neji and Sayuri blushed.

"No! You're wrong!" said Sayuri, "We weren't-"

"Like Kiba said, we'll leave so that you can resume your activities," interrupted Shino, just before setting a foot outside.

"Itsuki might come so be discreet!" joked Kiba, "See you!"

And the members of Team 8 left.


"Who would've thought that Neji was the submissive type?" commented Kiba after finishing his bowl of ramen, "I would've expected that of Shikamaru but Neji…?" He chuckled.

"I don't think you should be gossiping about that. Why? Because Neji wouldn't appreciate it," said Shino before putting aside his empty bowl.

"You're no fun," said Kiba, "So, what should we do now? Do you want to practice more?"

"No," said Shino, "I think I'll go to the hospital."

"Why?" asked Kiba.

"I'd like to ask Sakura to check my shoulder," said Shino.

"Does it hurt? You should've told Sayuri," said Kiba.

Shino frowned. "I don't trust her."

Kiba raised an eyebrow. "You think she wants to sabotage you?"

"Perhaps…" said Shino with a slight nod, "Perhaps…" The bug-user suddenly moved his head aside to dodge Itsuki, having been warned by his kikaichu.

"Shino-kun! You're not going to believe this! Sayuri-chan went to the Hyuuga compound and-"

"We know, Neji told us," interrupted Shino curtly, "Now, if you'll excuse us."

"Huh? You sound annoyed and I haven't done anything yet," said Itsuki, tilting his head. "What's wrong?"

"I'm busy," said Shino brusquely, "Why don't you return with Hinata? Or why don't you go with Tenten?"

"Someone's sulky," commented Itsuki, "Did Sayuri-chan do something?"

"That's exactly what I'm going to find out," hissed Shino and his glasses flashed, "Leave me alone, Itsuki. My patience has a limit."

So Itsuki sat on Kiba's head and poked him playfully. "What's wrong with him?"

Kiba removed him from his head. "He distrusts you."

"But why?" asked Itsuki as he watched Shino walk away, "What did I do? What did I do?"

"Actually, I think he distrusts Sayuri more," said Kiba and Akamaru barked. "I'm not sure if I understand why. I think he's being too paranoid, it must be the jounin exam."


"Everything's fine," said Sakura after Shino requested a full examination. She frowned. "I should tell them that you're healing faster than we thought so that you'd have your taijutsu exam sooner but…" She shrugged. "It would involve more paperwork, anyway…"

"So there's nothing wrong with me? Are you sure, Sakura?" asked Shino.

The pink-haired kunoichi glanced him oddly. "Yes."

"We've known each other for years," said Shino, "Even though we're not close, I think Hinata's a good friend of yours. So is Kiba and-"

"What do you want?" said Sakura, frowning. "It's true that we've never been close but you're talking as if I was hiding something or trying to hurt you."

"Hinata is a Hyuuga," commented Shino.

"I know."

"You're Tsunade-sama's apprentice and you're a talented kunoichi. Shouta-san, my cousin from my mother's side, speaks highly of you," said Shino, "I'd like to ask you something."

A sudden twitch developed in Sakura's face as if suddenly realizing something. "I'm veeeeeeeeery busy." She approached the door. "I'm very busy this week and the next and…" she clapped her cheek. "You know, I think I should check a patient in the next floor. He's been very ill lately. Bye!"

And she practically disappeared in a cloud of smoke.

Shino raised an eyebrow. He shook his head and made his way to the door. Women were weird, he mused. Ino was loud and Tenten could scare Lee. Perhaps Sayuri was very normal and Hinata was the weird one. After all, Shikamaru had said that he'd been lucky to get her in his gennin team.

Just as he left the hospital, Itsuki appeared in front of him.

"Are you okay, Shino-kun?" the mantis asked. "Why didn't you go with Sayuri-chan? She'd be happy to help you."

"Why do you want us to date so much? You told me that you chose me because I'm a bug-user," said Shino, "However, I think that's an absurd reason."

"Well, you're an Aburame," said Itsuki, "And I sensed lots of kikaichu when I met you so that could mean that you had to be very smart, patient and disciplined. It's hard to control all those little insects and sometimes, it's very annoying." The mantis tilted his head. "Besides, Tsunade made you her second-in-command so that kinda confirmed that you were intelligent and a good leader."

Shino nodded.

"You're also taller than Sayuri-chan, I've had trouble finding boys around her age that are taller than her," commented Itsuki, "And I thought that because you're an Aburame, your darkest, dirtiest fantasies would only involve holding hands. I was obviously wrong about that."

"I think you should forget those delusional dreams of yours," said Shino, "Sayuri-san likes Neji."

"That's not a nice joke," said Itsuki, "Don't you like Sayuri-chan a bit?"

"I don't have any romantic feelings for her," said Shino truthfully, "And I don't know if I can trust her."

"But why?" asked Itsuki, "Sayuri-chan's been very nice with you." And he poked Shino. "Actually, she should distrust you. You already know about her sensitivity with chakra, you know she's a medic nin with wind affinity and you know that she can be very stupid sometimes." He nodded. "And you also know that you have a big advantage over her, you could beat her by making her laugh." He poked him again, this time, harder. "And she risked her life for you! There! How can you distrust her?"

"Actually, that's one of the main reasons," said Shino, "And sometimes, I ask myself if she's not an excellent actress."

"Sayuri-chan is not trying to fool you! You're implying that she's a manipulator!" said Itsuki, offended, "Why don't you go and ask Hinata-chan! She's a Hyuuga, she'll tell you that you're being an idiot!"

And with that, the mantis disappeared in a puff of smoke.

"Hey, Shino!" called Kiba, who'd just arrived with Akamaru, "I tried to stop Itsuki but he came anyway!"

"He just left," said Shino.

"We talked a bit," commented Kiba, "He told me that he wants you to date Sayuri."

Shino nodded. "He's been trying to act as a matchmaker since our mission in Sugar country."

"But she's with Neji, she likes him," said Kiba and Akamaru barked.

"If we hadn't seen them so close today, I would disagree with you," replied Shino, "She's always denied liking him that way and before she healed that boy with basket I thought that…"

"That what?" asked Kiba, getting closer to his teammate.

"That she was slightly attracted to me," confessed Shino and before Kiba could ask him further, he continued speaking, "Or that she was attracted to my voice…that was how I convinced her to help me at the karaoke bar."

"I'm not sure if I get it," admitted Kiba and he gestured to a bench that wasn't too far.

Shino followed him and sat down. Then, he proceeded to tell him how he'd threatened Sayuri to sing in her ear.

"She was flustered," he said, "Do you remember when we saw her fight with Lee? She was very tense when I began talking in her ear before she became angry when I began chastising her…" He tilted his head, thoughtfully. "And that same day, we fought using only taijutsu."

"You didn't tell us about that," said Kiba and he smirked, "Did she beat you that bad?"

Shino glared him half-heartedly. "Not really, she was tired," he said. "Actually, it was...fun." He raised an eyebrow at Kiba's comically shocked face. "It was also very educational because I was somewhat able to understand her style."

"Then, you've been spending more time with her than I thought," said Kiba.

"And then, that day, I found out a few of things about her," commented Shino, "How long she's known Itsuki, Neji and Tsunade-sama for example…and then, she unexpectedly attacked me. After that, she approached me with the intention of healing me just to attack me again. She disguised her intentions very well so that my kikaichu would let her get close."

"You know, you sounded impressed just right now," commented Kiba, "I'm talking about her being sneaky."

"Do you remember Yamanaka Nadeshiko?" asked Shino and Kiba nodded, "She told me about Sayuri-san's secret, I'm talking about her sensitivity with chakra. I told Sayuri-san and after I assured her that I wouldn't be Nadeshiko's puppet, she thanked me."

"And? There's more, right?"

"She hugged me," said Shino and Kiba gaped at him. With malicious curiosity at his friend's reaction, he added. "I hugged her back, by the way." He waved a hand at Kiba's shocked face. "Are you okay?" The Inuzuka forced himself to nod. "That night, I saw her as a very vulnerable person…but also, as someone who needed frankness…and I thought that she trusted me and that she really liked me…" And he added hastily after seeing Kiba drop his jaw. "…not romantically, of course."

"I don't understand why you distrust her, then," said Kiba, "I mean, she's been nice with you and Kurenai-sensei told us that she was very worried for you when her sensei attacked you."

"Worried enough to risk her life?" replied Shino, a hint of incredulity in his voice.

"You know what? You've been taking the jounin exam so seriously that it's making you paranoid," said Kiba.

"No, it's not," replied Shino, annoyed, "She's been too friendly and attentive…too considerate."

"Wait! You mean that she freaks you out because she's nice?" Kiba laughed.

Shino glared him but Kiba laughed even more. "Her behavior does not scare me." His glasses flashed but to his chagrin, that didn't work. Kiba kept laughing. "Kiba, don't you remember what some say? To be a ninja is to excel in the art of deception." The Aburame gave Kiba an exasperated frown. "She fooled the Hyuuga council and she's a medic nin. She has extensive knowledge of the human body and excellent chakra control."

He waited for Kiba's laughter to fade away. The Inuzuka finally spoke. "Ah, so you think that she's been using her skills to pretend that she's nice and sensitive."

"That's correct," said Shino.

"But why would she do that? I mean, sure, you might be opponents in that tournament she mentioned but I think you're exaggerating," said Kiba and he shrugged, "You're giving it too much thought. What if one of you weren't going to take the jounin exam? Would you be suspicious of her, anyway?"

"Of course," said Shino, "I shouldn't let my guard down."

"You know, if all that was an act, I think you might even fell for her," said Kiba and he quickly added, "Two masters of deception!" Akamaru barked. "Oh, right. Maybe not. So much competition might end up driving you crazy."

"I don't like her that way," said Shino.

"And I'm glad or you'd have Neji and her sensei after you," said Kiba, cringing. "So what are you going to do?"

"I'll ask her," said Shino, "Let's say that there's a method I can use with her to know if she's been honest."

Kiba smirked. "What? You're going to sing in her ear this time?"

"No," said Shino, "Itsuki just gave me the idea."

"You know, I'm surprised you're not talking with Hinata about this," said Kiba.

"Hinata may not be objective about this," said Shino, "Why? Because Neji likes Sayuri-san too much."


"…so what are you going to do?" asked Hinata.

"Neji wants to go back and if they're already wary of me…" Sayuri shrugged. "The jounin exam will start soon and you say that they're going to watch me…I wouldn't mind terrorizing them a little."

"Sayuri…"

"I want to make clear that I'm not letting them use that seal of yours."

Hinata nodded. "Does that mean that you're coming with me?"

"I guess," said Sayuri, shrugging, "You know, Shino-kun and Kiba-kun might be right. You're not so bad…"

"Thanks, I think," said Hinata, uncertain of what to say.

"You're a member of the main house," stated Sayuri, "And we don't want to be married so I…I ask for your help. If there's something that you'd like in return and I'm able to give it to you…just name it. I can help you with taijutsu or ninjutsu, I guess. I'm also good at baking cakes for obvious reasons."

"Neji-nii-san? Do you want to nullify your marriage too?"

Neji almost blinked before nodding. "We never wanted to be married in the first place and we wouldn't be if we hadn't lost that stupid contest."

"So, Hinata-sama," began Sayuri, "What would make them decide that it'd be in their best interest to nullify our marriage?"

"I suppose that you could prove yourself to be an unfit wife for Neji-nii-san or for any Hyuuga," said Hinata, "He's from the branch house so making them believe that you're weak wouldn't work so maybe…maybe…scandalous behavior."

"Scandalous behavior?" repeated Sayuri, "Like what? I wouldn't like to…cheat on him."

"Hmmm…well…no," said Hinata, "Maybe if you created chaos at home, make the elders dislike you…especially grandfather…" She tilted her head. "Or if you were unable to have children with Neji-nii-san…or you could try to terrorize them, like you said, make them think that you're uncontrollable, dangerous…maybe if you acted like Itsuki-kun they…Neji-nii-san? Are you fine?"

"Like Itsuki?" repeated Neji, completely disgusted by her idea.

"I see," said Sayuri, "It makes sense in a weird way. They probably want a dignified, composed wife for the prodigy of the clan." She nodded. "Neji, do you know where your sensei lives?"


"So that's Neji-san's wife," muttered a boy. His father gave him a scolding glare for his undignified behavior. However, he couldn't help but notice that his son wasn't the only one who was curious.

Many were following the couple with their eyes as discreetly as possible.

"What a weird person, ne?" commented the boy, "I wonder if she convinced Neji-san to wear that white cloak, it's ugly." He stepped back when Sayuri turned back to see him and glared him, just to laugh immediately at him. She waved at him and Neji groaned inwardly.

"You haven't introduced me to anyone, Neji," said Sayuri and she nodded at the boy, who hid behind his father immediately. Neji glared her half-heartedly before taking her with the boy. The boy's name was Kyo and his father's was Hiko.

"Do you want to know why I've got this cloak. Kyo-kun?" asked Sayuri and the boy nodded, much to his father's chagrin. Then, Sayuri spoke with a louder voice. "I keep lots of scrolls and other things here because I travel a lot. But the most important reason is that not even Hiashi-sama can see what I hide in it."

"Huh? That's a lie!" protested Kyo with an accusing finger, "Our Byakugan can see through everything!"

"There are special seals that can prevent the Byakugan to be used effectively," said Sayuri before ruffling his hair affectionately, "How old are you? Neji never looked as cute as you."

"I'm not cute," replied Kyo, but he seemed delighted at the praise, "Boys aren't cute…and I'm seven." His father glared him slightly. "Oh…well…I'm almost seven."

"My mistake," said Sayuri, "Anyway, you're better-looking than Neji...and you also look stronger."

"Really?" said Kyo.

"Yes, I also think he was shorter," said Sayuri, mischievously, "You know, I always wanted a little brother and you seem strong and nice enough."

"I like your wife, Neji-san," said Kyo.

"I'm glad," said Neji, deadpanned.

"And she's just as tall as you," said Kyo, "Are you wearing heels, Sayuri-san?" Sayuri shook her head. "Hmm…Sayuri-san, are you also going to take the jounin exam?" A nod. "Really? Then you must be very strong."

"She's a medic nin," commented Neji and with a louder voice, he added, "She's already familiarized with our techniques, she was Soujiro-nii-san's teammate."

"So you could help me with my kata?" said Kyo.

"I suppose," admitted Sayuri, "Neji would be better for that, though."

"Kyo, they must be busy," intervened Hiko, "Sayuri-san is moving with Neji-kun today."

"Hmm…he can come with us," said Sayuri, "I can show him a couple of things like some weapons and other things." And she raised her sleeve.

"A bug?" said Kyo.

"I'm a mantis," said Midoriko, feeling insulted by the tone of disappointment, "And I can bite."

"It speaks!" said Kyo, as amazed as a Hyuuga child could be.

"A summon?" asked Hiko.

"Yes, my name is Midoriko," said the mantis proudly.

"But you're so small," commented Kyo while pointing at her.

Midoriko bit him.

"Midoriko-san…" called Sayuri and she healed Kyo's finger, "Many summons can change their size. Mantises, toads, slugs…However, sometimes being small can be an advantage, you know. Size isn't necessarily directly proportional to power." She glared Neji when he suddenly had a suspicious coughing fit.

"It doesn't hurt anymore," muttered Kyo while inspecting his finger, "You're amazing…By the way, why are you wearing that cloak, Neji-san?"

Hiko and a couple of Hyuuga who'd been watching the exchange tried their best not to appear affected when a faint blush appeared on Neji's cheeks.

"We must get going," said the prodigy and he took Sayuri's hand, "Please excuse us."

Sayuri bowed to Hiko and ruffled Kyo's hair with her other hand before following Neji.

"Neji-san is acting weird, ne?" commented Kyo. Hiko nodded.

.

"I'd never entered the room of a boy before," commented Sayuri, "I see that I haven't missed much."

Neji's room could be easily described as tidy and practical. There was a dresser, a small desk with a lamp and a photo with his team. Beside a door that probably led to a bathroom, there was a calendar and full mirror. Lastly, there was a futon on the floor.

The Hyuuga genius shook his head and removed the cloak.

"Do you think anyone saw that you're shirtless?" asked Sayuri.

"Apart from the council?" asked Neji, "Maybe…everyone's very curious about the cloaks but mine isn't special."

"Of course not," said Sayuri, "The good one was destroyed by Akira-sensei and this one is a bad substitute but for now…" She shrugged. "By the way, one of the elders seemed amused when we entered the room with the cloaks."

"Yes, but Hotaka-sama was livid," said Neji and he shrugged.

"You're very handsome," commented Midoriko out of the blue, "You have a nice body."

Neji raised an eyebrow, unnerved. "Thanks…"

"You know, you're as good-looking as Kiba-kun but in a different way," said Midoriko, oblivious to Neji's discomfort.

Neji nodded, speechless.

"Midoriko-san, you're making him uncomfortable," said Sayuri, "Perhaps you should return with your family."

"Okay," said the mantis, "Bye!" And she disappeared in a puff of smoke.

"Are all the mantises flirty?" asked Neji.

Sayuri laughed. "Well, I always thought that only Itsuki was like that but Midori-san really liked Shino-kun so I'm not sure anymore." She shrugged, grinning. "She told me that she likes Shino-kun's sense of humor and I agree…I'd never seen Itsuki act like that, it was very funny."

Neji nodded but there was a slight frown in his features.

"And you know, Midoriko-san is right," said Sayuri absent-mindedly, as Neji took out a shirt from the dresser, "I suppose that studying under Maito Gai and sparring with Lee-san and Tenten-san has its advantages."

Neji blushed slightly. "Thanks."

"You're welcome," said Sayuri and she released the contents of two scrolls. One contained a futon and the other, a pile of candy canes. "Would you like one?"

"No, thanks."

"I'm starting to think that I'm the only one who likes them. Sakura-san, Ino-san and Shino-kun turned me down too."

Neji raised an eyebrow. "Not everyone has an obsession with sweets like you."

"I know," said Sayuri, "I hope Hinata-sama finds out who told your clan about our marriage."

Neji nodded.


The next day…

"You have interesting stuff, Sayuri-san," said Kyo, "Look, that's my cousin. She's also going to take the jounin exam." The boy nodded in the direction of a young woman with light brown hair. "Hoshi-nee-san, good morning."

Hyuuga Hoshi turned to look at him and greeted him back.

"This is Sayuri-san," said Kyo, "She's Neji-san's wife and she's a medic nin."

"Nice to meet you," said Sayuri and Hoshi mimicked her.

"Minoru-nii-san told me about you," said Hoshi and she lowered her voice, "He told me that you made the whole council laugh."

"Really? You did that, Sayuri-san?" said Kyo, with wide, worshipful eyes. "When did that happen?"

"Yesterday," said Sayuri, pleased, "But if I'm honest, I never meant for it to be considered a prank…I got the idea when I was packing my stuff in my scrolls, I suppose I improvise a lot."

"I wish I had seen that," said Kyo, "The whole council laughing…"

"Such disrespectful words from a child…" said a male voice, "The branch house seems quite lively since yesterday." A young man with dark brown hair appeared out of the blue, his forehead was bare, showing he was a member of the main house. He glanced Kyo with disdain and then, he glared Sayuri.

Kyo paled and Hoshi shielded him immediately. "Yuuto-sama, please, Kyo is only a child."

"The branch house seems to have forgotten its place lately," commented Yuuto, "He will not be the first to be reprimanded in the course of the day. For example, your sister was also-"

He didn't finish his sentence for he was suddenly thrown against the wall, his hands painfully restrained by strings. He gasped when Sayuri wrapped more strings around his neck. "You haven't changed at all, Hyuuga Yuuto."

"Why aren't you attacking her?" demanded Yuuto

"Because if she attacks me, I'll behead you," said Sayuri and her strings glowed more, drawing a drop of blood.

"The council will know about this," muttered Yuuto, "My father-"

"I'll tell the whole council about how you threatened a child," interrupted Sayuri coldly, with an expression of distaste, "First, I'll tell Hinata-sama. Then, I'll tell Hiashi-sama and finally, I'll tell the whole council."

Yuuto glared her. "Hinata-sama? Oh, she must've promised you something yesterday."

"No, you're wrong. Actually, I've known her for a while," said Sayuri, "And maybe you'd like to reconsider hurting Neji because like a couple of elders noted, it wouldn't do for their prodigy to be weakened before he takes the jounin exam."

"My father will know this," said Yuuto, "I-"

"You will fight me," said Sayuri, "I'll even invite Nadeshiko. I bet she's been dying to challenge you too."

"Who?"

"Yamanaka Nadeshiko," said Sayuri, "She'll love the show and she might even root for me, not that I care but…" She flicked him in the forehead. "And you better not activate that seal on anyone ever again."

"You think you can threaten me in-"

"I think that's what I'm doing right now," said Sayuri as icily as she could, "Like I said, you will not activate that seal on anyone ever again and you won't ask your father to do it for you. If you do so, I will know." Her eyes narrowed even more at him and the strings on his neck tightened. "Don't wonder how. I just will." She smirked at the murderous glare that Yuuto gave her. "Oh, please. Neji's glares don't scare me so you're wasting your time with that." And then, she added. "By the way, maybe you should go to the hospital. You look a bit pale and I don't know…someone might have put something on your jasmine tea."

.

.

"I don't know if you did the right thing, Sayuri-san," said Hoshi, uneasy, "Neji-kun might get in trouble."

"He'll be fine," said Sayuri, "Besides, Hinata-sama told me that Yuuto already knows a couple of things so he won't use that damn seal…at least not for a while." And she ruffled Kyo's hair. "Why don't you come with me, Kyo-kun? I'm going to see a couple of friends and then, we'll go for ice cream."


"You're so cute," said Ino. She giggled with Sakura when Kyo attempted to imitate Neji's glare.

"He doesn't like to be called 'cute'," said Sayuri and she ruffled Kyo's hair.

"We're done for today," said Sakura, "Let's go."

"Is Neji-san going to come with us?" asked the child.

"I don't think so," said Sayuri, "He told me he'd be busy."

Sakura sighed with disappointment.

"Is something wrong?" asked Sayuri.

"I was hoping to ask him something," said Sakura, "I want some advice."

"About taijutsu?" inquired Kyo.

"No," said Sakura, "I want to ask him how he'd like to be rejected."

"You want to reject Neji-san?" asked Kyo, confused. He glanced Sayuri.

"No, I'm talking about someone else," said Sakura.

"I think you already know how to handle Lee-san," commented Ino, "And Tenten helps you occasionally."

"It's not Lee-san," said Sakura, "It's someone more serious and much colder…Actually, he's the anti-Lee."

"The anti-Lee?" repeated Kyo.

"Do I know him?" asked Ino.

"Yes," said Sakura, "It's Shino."

Ino blanched and Sayuri stopped walking.

"S-Shino?" said Ino.

"Is he a bad person?" asked Kyo, "Is he worse than the other boy you mentioned?"

"Well, I'd rather date Lee-san than Shino," said Sakura, "Or Kiba…or almost any other guy."

"Then, just be honest and tell him that you don't like him that way," said Sayuri, "I think he'll understand."

"Maybe…" said Sakura, "I don't know…Kiba's told me many times that Shino can hold a grudge and that he sulks sometimes."

"What are you afraid of? A cockroach invasion in your room?" asked Ino. She exchanged a panicked glance with Sakura when they realized that that might happen. "Ewww…"

"But Shino-kun isn't a bad person," said Sayuri, "Kiba-kun might be right when he says that Shino-kun sulks but…well…I don't think he'd do something so childish." Sakura glanced her uneasily. "If it makes you feel better, you can tell him that you'll ask me to sic Itsuki on him."

"Who's Itsuki?" asked Kyo.

"Midoriko-san's uncle," said Sayuri.

In that precise moment, Shino and Kiba entered the hospital and made their way towards them, much to Sakura's dismay. However, to her surprise, Shino barely paid her attention and asked Sayuri to talk with him.

"Kyo-kun, would you mind to stay with Sakura-san and Ino-san for a moment?"

"Sure," said Kyo, slightly impressed by Shino's height.

"I'll buy you two ice creams for being so considerate," said Sayuri and she ruffled his hair.

Shino raised an eyebrow at her and then, he shook his head. "Are you planning to turn a Hyuuga into an addict of sweets?"

"He's six."

"Two ice creams is an excess," said Shino, "One is more than enough. Besides, too much ice cream could cause him a stomach-ache."

"I thought you'd told me that I acted like a scolding mother," said Sayuri.

"With Itsuki," said Shino, "But I didn't come to talk about that." He frowned. "Maybe I should look for you later. I'd like to have your complete attention and you seem busy."

"Maybe we could go with you to buy ice cream," said Kiba, "And while you talk, we can take care of Kyo."

And they did just that.

However, when Sayuri began walking away with Shino, Kyo cried after her. "S-Sayuri-san!"

The black-haired girl turned to see him questioningly.

"Be careful."

"I'll buy you another ice cream for that," said Sayuri, grinning.

"You're a terrible babysitter," said Shino, "Too much sugar is bad for a child."

"You're exaggerating," said Sayuri and they went to sit on a bench, far from them, "So what do you want to talk about?"

"I want to know why you're so considerate with me," said Shino. Sayuri raised an eyebrow and Shino sighed inwardly before he sent kikaichu to cover her from neck to toes. "I want the truth."

"Y-You…" muttered Sayuri as she eyed the black bugs, "You're threatening me."

"I'll make you laugh," said Shino, nodding, "However, because I don't know everything about your…problem, I don't know if I'll cause you other kind of discomforts. Now, start talking." And he took her hands so that she was facing him.

Sayuri glared him. "You are a jerk."

"So I've been told," said Shino, "But like I told you, I want to know why you've been so kind and considerate with me. But first, I want to check something." And he tightened his grip on her hands. "Your name is Ito Sayuri."

A glare. "Yes."

"You hair is black."

"Yes."

"You hate sweets."

"No."

"You're a Yamanaka."

"No."

"You're a chuunin."

"Yes."

"You like sour things."

"No."

"You like ice creams."

"Yes."

"Very well, tell me why you've been so considerate and friendly."

"I felt guilty and in debt with you," said Sayuri as she eyed the bugs in one of her arms, "Because you've been badly injured twice because of me." She repressed the urge to shrug. "I shouldn't have waited so long to check on you after you went to face the wasp-user and Akira-sensei almost killed you."

Shino nodded.

"Besides, I'm a medic nin, like my dad," said Sayuri, "He once healed a stray kitten and I looked after it for a while…I…I really wanted to keep it but…well…that's none of your business."

"I understand," said Shino, feeling uneasy.

"No, you don't," replied Sayuri, glaring him, "You don't understand because you don't know how I felt when I had to let him go."

"No, but you're upset so I suppose that you really loved that kitten," said Shino.

"Of course I loved him!" said Sayuri, blinking too fast, "He was cute and small and defenseless and I really wanted him to stay with me…the point is, I like healing and that's all you should know…"

Shino frowned. He hadn't expected a conversation about a stray kitten and there was also a small voice in his head telling him that he should be less hostile.

"And well, I thought you were chivalrous and kind in your own way," said Sayuri, with her eyes closed, "Because well…you tried to help me with Nadeshiko and because I thought you were concerned for my well-being when I treated Shouta-san…"

Shino nodded. Actually, that made sense and according to his experience with interrogatories, she was telling the truth. Also, his kikaichu were also convinced of her honesty as they continued monitoring her.

"Also, you've been very patient with Itsuki and Midori-san," said Sayuri.

He couldn't argue that.

"And you can even deal with Itsuki, he obeys you to some degree," said Sayuri, frowning, "I'm impressed by that."

Another nod.

"And well, you were more understanding than Nadeshiko when you found out that I was laughing when Soujiro died," said Sayuri quietly, "And you let me hug you." Shino winced slightly when her shoulders shook slightly. "I…I just…I don't know…maybe I was feeling sensitive because I'd seen Nadeshiko that day after a long time…the point…the point is…" She sighed. "The point is that you hugged me back and it felt nice and I really thought that you were being honest and kind so I thought that maybe I could leave the rivalry aside…" Her shoulders shook again. "I also thought that you're blunt so that's why, that's why I thought that we could be good friends…because I thought you were kind and frank…and I really needed to hear that I'd done everything I could to help Soujiro…"

There it was again, that tiny, quiet voice in his head telling him to be kinder.

"Is that why?" asked Shino, "Is that why you risked your life for me?" He was suddenly feeling uncomfortable as he recalled what he'd once told her in her ear, just after she sparred with Neji. "Do you care about me?"

"After this, not anymore," said Sayuri, glaring him again, "You took advantage of my…problem."

"But you cared about me," said Shino, more to himself. He was oddly touched.

Sayuri rolled her eyes. "Yes."

"And you risked your life for me."

"I guess I can be very stupid and reckless, just like Itsuki says every now and then."

Shino nodded.

"Why do you distrust me, anyway?" asked Sayuri, "Because I think that being nice is a stupid reason. We're Konoha ninja, we're allies."

"You fooled the Hyuuga council," said Shino and he added hastily, "And you're a talented medic nin."

"I never lied, I told Neji's grandfather that the contents would make him happy," Sayuri shrugged. "Tsunade-sama somehow gave me the idea."

"A loophole," said Shino.

"He was expecting a technique," said Sayuri, "A technique that doesn't exists and if it does, I have no idea how to get it or use it." She glared. "Now, release me."

And finally, the kikaichu left her body.

"My apologies. I admit that I acted with paranoia but it was because I-"

"Your hands too."

To her surprise, small black chains of kikaichu covered her hands.

"Are you threatening me again?"

"No," said Shino, "But I want to apologize."

"You already did."

"I'm not going to beg you," said Shino, frowning.

"Fine. Now, release me."

"Let's be friends."

"You don't trust me," replied Sayuri, "And I don't trust you."

"But we like each other," said Shino.

"I don't like you anymore," said Sayuri.

"You're being incredibly childish right now," said Shino.

"I don't like you and I don't trust you so I don't think we should be friends," said Sayuri as she eyed the kikaichu in her hands apprehensively, "Why do you like me, anyway?"

"Because I'd never met someone that didn't belong to my clan who could express concern for my kikaichu...that was disconcerting."

"O-Oh…"

Shino nodded and Sayuri sat down again on the bench, visibly calmer. She glanced him curiously.

"So my…er…kindness…freaked you out?"

A miniscule, barely noticeable twitch appeared on Shino's brow. "I don't freak out."

Sayuri rolled her eyes at him and nodded. "Many people think that the members of your clan are creepy."

"I know," said Shino.

"So I did freak you out," said Sayuri, recalling her conversations with Kido Akira, "That's quite sad."

Shino frowned. "I don't freak out." He glared her when her glance softened. "And I don't need whatever pity you're feeling."

Sayuri shook her head and took his hands. Strings emerged from her fingers and tightened around Shino's hands.

"Your name is Aburame Shino."

"Yes."

"You're a chuunin."

"Yes."

"I was so friendly that I startled you."

"Yes."

"And you were suspicious of me because of that."

"Yes."

"You like me."

"Yes."

"You want to befriend me because you like me."

"Yes."

"You want to befriend me because you want to know how to beat me."

"No."

"You like sweetheart cake."

"Yes."

"You're taller than me."

"Yes."

"You want to befriend me because you want to know how to beat Kido Akira."

"No."

"You want to beat my sensei."

"Yes."

"You trust me."

"…"

"Aburame?"

"I trust you less than my teammates but more than other people."

"Yes, I bet you trust me more than Orochimaru or a Kumo ninja. I want names."

"Ino, Shikamaru, Neji, Tenten, Sakura."

"Okay," said Sayuri, shrugging, "Now, release me."

"You'll have to release me first," said Shino.

"You're annoying," said Sayuri, "Why don't we release each other at the same time? On the count of three."

"1, 2, 3…"

"You only released my left hand."

"You're one to talk, you didn't release my right hand."

"You're a jerk, Shino-kun."

"Should we try again?"

.

"Sayuri-san!" called Kyo and he blinked twice, "Neji-san, is Sayuri-san holding hands with that man?"

"I think he's right," commented Lee.

Shino and Sayuri had agreed that they'd ask Kiba to release them. However, they hadn't expected to see Neji and Lee with Ino, Sakura, Kiba and Kyo.

"Neji, you must do something!" said Lee, "They're holding hands! You can't be beaten in the game of love!" The Hyuuga prodigy glared him and then, he glared Shino.

Shino frowned. "You're wrong, Sayuri-san and I are competing."

"Competing?" said Lee.

"It's a battle of wills," said Sayuri, "He tied me with his bugs, I tied him with my strings but I guess that my cloak covers them. The one who releases the other first, loses." And she sighed when Neji glared her. "We're not holding hands…it looks like it but no…"

"Sayuri-san, you're so competitive!" said Lee, "Yosh!"And he extended his hand towards his teammate. "Neji!"

But the genius ignored him. "Sayuri, if this is one of your ideas for that, I suggest you to try something else."

"No, you're wrong," said Sayuri, "It's just that he doesn't want to lose."

"You're one to talk," said Shino, glaring her half-heartedly.

"You two are acting like children," said Neji.

Shino shot him a dark glance and released Sayuri. He wasn't going to let that Hyuuga lecture him. "There you go."

Neji nodded.

"I won," Sayuri told Shino cheekily.

"That's an empty victory," said Shino dryly.

"You're a sore loser," said Sayuri, "I guess we're even now." Shino raised an eyebrow at her questioningly. "The sweetheart cake incident."

"You're keeping a score?" said Kiba disbelievingly and he shook his head.

"Sayuri-san, could it be that you've got your own eternal rival?" mused Lee and Neji twitched his brow.

"Eternal what?" said Kyo.

"Oh, and looks like Shino-kun accepted!" said Lee, tears of joy running down his cheeks, "Shino-kun! You're so youthful!"

Kiba snickered.

"Sayuri-san, I've got something for you!" said Lee and he presented her a green bodysuit, "Neji told me that you wanted one!"

Everyone but Neji and Lee glanced Sayuri with different expressions of shock and/or terror.

"What kind of bet did you lose?" said Kiba.

"Yosh! Maybe you'd like to join me when I run in the mornings, Sayuri-san!" said Lee, "Gai-sensei has been busy with the paperwork for the jounin exam!"

"Sounds…sounds nice…" said Sayuri politely, "Yes, sure…"

Ino and Sakura exchanged glances. Before Sayuri could resist, they took her apart and began lecturing her about fashion.

"Neji-san, I don't think that Hiashi-sama would like that," observed Kyo, "That outfit is…"

"Don't worry," said Neji, "That…thing is only for training."

"So…so she's really going to wear that?" mumbled Kiba, shocked.

Neji sighed inwardly.

He was so going to murder whoever told his clan about his marriage.


ShinoAndMe, there's a reply for Chaotic Harmony at the end! -

/For the rest…

Review!

You can be an anonymous reviewer, by the way! Don't forget it!

I'm craving for ice cream after writing this.


January 8th, 2012. The story has been updated and Chapter 21 has been added. Changes might occur, i.e. I might move parts of Chapter 5 to Chapter 4. It's not a certainty. BTW, I'll be deleting the thanks for reviews, favorites, alerts, PM's, etc and leave the names to save space. I think they've been here enough time to be read.

Thanks.


So yeah! This is what happens when I watch Nodame Cantabile (the dorama) and listen to string instruments in YouTube. (Oh, and I was reading Harry Potter too.)

For all my readers:

From what I was reading in your reviews, I think that some of my perceptions or intentions differ from you…or maybe it is because I read each chapter lots of times before I update. I'm starting to think that my writing is messier than I thought and that for some strange reason, the best chapters are the ones with odd numbers. Maybe it is because I don't want to make this too predictable…I dunno…

I have a question: How much do you like my action scenes? I can't decide because sometimes I write too much and some people might not like descriptions. I'd like to write two fighting scenes for Shino…or maybe three…and maybe three for Sayuri…but I want them to be short…I haven't decided yet.

This also happens with dramatic scenes. I was going to cause a big conflict and I ended up erasing practically the half of this chapter.

For those who don't let me know that they like this via review/alerts/favorites/PM's…. I'd really like to know what you think because I don't know if you think I overdo some things, if you find it illogical, if you think I could improve some kind of scenes. If you've lasted this long reading…(some of you since chapter 1…), you might as well take your time to review. Besides, it would be fair to those who have reviewed or somehow let me know what they think.

For the restWho's still following this? I can't help but wonder…because maybe not for the next chapter, but in what I hope is not a far future, things might take a strange turn. I'm talking about romance. It's true that my goal has been to keep everyone in character but I don't know how much you like displays of affection or awkwardness.

Reviewers:

Thanks a lot to:

Akd5, Yoshi Battles, valkyriegorbash, Sania Katilette, Issa V, akane

Favorites:

Thanks a lot to: LadySilverDragon2, FallenAngelFox, FuzzyShadowFoxx, RayJorSee, Issa V

Alerts:

Thanks a lot to: FallenAngelFox

ShinoAndMe: Hi! If it makes you feel better, I can hardly remember my password for fictionpress…lol… I suppose that you're the only author who has that penname and that has 10 stories. Oh, well…I'm glad you liked Chaotic Harmony.

I can't help but agree with you, Shino doesn't get enough credit. For example, I recur a lot to Narutopedia and I read in the trivia that he does appear in the latest opening. So I went and watched it again and again until I could finally see him. Unlike the rest, he's practically invisible because of the angle where they drew him. =(

Another example of this is that I wrote something based on episode 166 of Shippuden and I got more hits, reviews and favorites in two days than I got for the first chapter of Betting on a Bug when I published it. I like Hinata, that's why I've written this as carefully as possible. I must be objective, you know? It wouldn't do for Sayuri to like her immediately…that's another reason why I created Itsuki, to balance things.

Please review! And thanks for reviewing Chaotic Harmony. It's nice to know that some people like that style. Bye! =]