Dying Embers

Chapter 9 – The Song of Ave Maria and Your Smile

Yeah baby! We're on a roll! Come on, this is great, we're actually writing stuff! Now this chapter is gonna be kinda different. Maybe what you guys want is some romantic stuff, and if that's what's gonna make you review (but don't flame, yeah we're picky) then we'll give it to you. Also these couple which will be formed will be broken, new ones established etc. You see we're gonna focus on the whole teenage thing, like how we grow up, like someone, get together and then find out that the grass wasn't really greener on the other side. So if you're favourite character isn't paired up with who you wanted, don't fret, that may all change! Anyway, enjoy the chapter, people!

Anyuuu!

Note – This chapter has been reworked and improved.

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It had been over a week since the girls had become Chunin for Konoha, and as things usually do, they had settled down into a cheerful rhythm of life. The first jobs had been rather monotonous, literally scrambling through forests in an attempt to catch missing cats or dogs, or weeding the garden of a fancy house. It seemed that just about now, nothing really was going on. Orochimaru hadn't been seen for a while now, presumed dead, and Akatsuki again had been quiet and unknown: the lull before the storm no doubt. Even the Jonin had nothing more than C Rank missions, a B at best; the Chunin were resigned to D Ranks; the Genin, well they barely had work at all.

Mitzuki and Momoko were just glad that the jobs paid well, usually coming from the rich, and often incompetent. Finding "poor Tiddles" and saving "my darling flowers!" were suddenly enough to make Momoko get out of bed herself in the morning. She loved money as much as anyone, and would gladly have her way with it, had Mitzuki not been keeping all of it safe and hidden. She was given enough to buy what she wanted, treats and all, but forbidden to spend it all at once. Being Momoko she often pouted, folded her arms and stormed off, grabbing a book and heading off to find Shino.

Shino? Yes that does sound odd doesn't it, an unlikely pair of friends. At first it had been Mitzuki who had tried to befriend him; it had worked too. She'd sat next to him and talked cheerfully, he just sat there reading his book, perfect huh? Later she had gotten bored, and her fear of bugs had compelled her to fetch Momoko. With the promise of buying a book, she led the now delighted shinobi, clutching her new favourite possession tightly, to the bench where Shino sat. Before she had known what happened she found herself beside Shino, absorbed in his book, he didn't look up. Mitzuki disappeared in a flash of feathers, leaving a disgruntled Momoko. What had happened after that was unknown, but now Momoko would often disappear with a book in her hand and head off to that bench. Mitzuki had spied them once, along with the overly excited Naruto. They'd seen the two on the bench, completely silent, reading. They seemed content, the atmosphere calm and relaxed.

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Yes, it had all settled down. Mitzuki often met up with Ino, TenTen and Hinata; talking about girl things like fashion, make up and boys was a must. Sometimes Sakura would grace them with her presence, and whenever she was sure Sakura wouldn't be coming, Momoko would allow herself to be dragged along. Mitzuki also found herself spending much of the day with Naruto.

The guy with a limitless hyper drive seemed to be enjoying some female attention. After turning up every day, knocking on her door in the early morning, with calls of "Ne, ne, Mitzuki chan, come on, hurry up!" she realised this had probably always been his routine, except with Sakura in her position. Though Sakura had softened, she honestly doubted she'd be willing to get up that early and tag along with Naruto, full of his boundless energy. Her suspicions were confirmed one day whilst walking with Naruto down the early morning street. It was practically empty, the day still awakening, as pinks and pastel oranges were dotted about the forget-me-not blue sky. He'd been strangely quiet and thoughtful and had taken time to reply when she'd asked him if he was alright. Arms behind his head he looked at the early morning sky, slowly he answered her,

"Mitzuki chan, it's nothing really, just that I find this kinda weird. Every morning I'd go to Sakura chan and ask her if she wanted to go on a stroll," here he gave a weak smile, "as you can probably tell, she never said yes. But you… Mitzuki chan, you said yes first time… and everyday this week, for that matter!" He turned his head, his face adorned with his usual wide smile, "I suppose I should be saying thanks right now," his smile stretched, "Thanks Mitzuki chan."

Mitzuki returned the smile, but noticing the slightly pained expression in his eyes, folded her arms as the continued to walk; she'd have to be delicate. "Naruto, this is about you liking Sakura and her liking Sasuke isn't it?"

He jumped looking startled, "Where'd you hear about that?"

Mitzuki shook her head, he obviously couldn't see just how obvious it was, "Don't worry about that, that's not important right now." She looked at him out of the corner of her eye, unsure as to why she was doing this, "Naruto, if she can't see just how special you are, and would choose Sasuke over you, then honestly she's not worth you. There are other girls out there, girls who will realise, or maybe already have, just how unique you are. Naruto you just have to go out there and find them."

Naruto had been staring at her, disbelieving. Finally he broke the silence that had fallen, "Like who?"

Mitzuki shot him a grin, and laughed, "Like me for one. I know you're a special guy; otherwise I wouldn't be hanging out with you every morning. Hinata too. She knows Naruto, and she truly believes it too," Mitzuki looked at the effect it was having on him. He was examining the ground with interest, trying to conceal a blush; Mitzuki patted his back, "Rather than worry about it, just focus on being you, yeah? You're a cool guy Naruto, there's someone out there waiting for you, and they know it. Don't fight for Sakura, just find that person." Trying to lighten things she added, "And at least it's better than being in a love triangle huh? For all we know Sasuke may like you then!"

Naruto was still looking at the ground; Mitzuki gave him some time, staying silent. Finally he looked up, eyes welling with emotion. She wasn't prepared for what happened next and gasped as she felt his arms wrap round her. Head buried in her hair he muttered something, barely audible,

"Thanks Mitzuki chan."

He drew back after a few seconds. His grin was back in place and he looked his old self. Moment forgotten he grabbed her hand and dragged her down the street, excited, "Come on Mitzuki chan, let's go annoy, um I mean visit Kiba!"

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While Mitzuki had daily meetings with the Chunin girls, Momoko had daily arguments with Sasuke and fights with Sakura, though by now the initial reason of dislike was almost forgotten. She also had a blossoming friendship with Choji; they're love of food leading them to go out most evenings to a restaurant, to sample the best food around. At first they had dragged the whole group with them, but then the unthinkable had happened: Sakura had eaten the last slice of pizza; the one Momoko had had her eye on for a good half hour. The argument which ensued after that one wasn't pretty, food grudges never are.

Sasuke had once again commented on the way she enjoyed eating, after Momoko had reprimanded Sakura for taking the last one. Momoko, finding the comment extremely personal, had clenched her fist and muttered something incoherent, desperate to control her temper. This time Mitzuki had stuck up for her, commenting that Sasuke was behaving in a childish way, and that Naruto had more sense than he did, while her eyes flashed dangerously; she was beginning to have enough of Sasuke picking on Momoko, unless of course he could take as much as he got, and she told him as much.

Momoko had felt touched as Mitzuki often avoided arguments to the extreme, even backing down on her opinion, if need be. This feeling increased as Choji agreed. He stated that a love of food was the best thing possible for anything with a heartbeat and that he'd personally take care of anyone who mocked another's love of food. Ino had muttered something about diets and TenTen had nodded understandingly. Shikamaru had concluded,

"Either way it's too troublesome to see you fight. Keep it down otherwise we'll settle you with the bill."

Momoko and Choji had from this time forward gone alone. They became well known in restaurants for their good advice on how to improve food, taste and appearance. In just under a week, the whole of Konoha knew about them, Momoko couldn't be happier.

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Momoko also enjoyed cloud watching with Shikamaru. It was a similar friendship to that between Shino and Momoko; a silent one. On some days she'd be reading with Shino, and others she'd be lazing about with him. Their favourite haunt soon became a bench positioned in one of those rare green areas, with a few trees, on the edge of the village. Shikamaru would collapse on the bench, and then lie down, gazing at the clouds. Soon there'd be silence as Momoko, usually sitting in a tree, made herself comfortable, and leaned back against the tree with a sigh.

It was rare to be joined by anyone, and if they were it was usually Mitzuki on one of her less than happy days. These were the days she was usually thinking, depressing herself with dark memories, so she found the quietest area available to calm down. Momoko and Shikamaru had at first been wary, fearing that their solitude would be broken by Mitzuki's bubbly nature, but when they saw her greet them with a mere nod and just lie on the grass, silence prevailing, they relaxed. These were rare as I said, and it was rare for Mitzuki to be there without Momoko, but that day…that's what happened.

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Mitzuki had woken up, once again to the noisy calling of Naruto, though his noise wasn't enough to wake Momoko. It was a normal start to the day and Mitzuki was as cheerful as ever, though by now she felt that something was missing. She went with Naruto on his usual teasing spree; again Inuzuka Kiba the unfortunate victim, the main reason was that their clan often woke up early. But this time, while Naruto had messed about with him in a brotherly fashion, their close friendship being revealed, Mitzuki, usually taking an active role in this, just sat and watched. She had Akamaru on her lap and was stroking him absently as they watched Kiba chase Naruto around the outside of his house. Why? Oh something silly, stealing someone's photo of them sitting on the toilet for the first time as a little kid, isn't that bad now is it?

Kiba's sister walked out of the house and greeted Mitzuki cheerfully, "Hi, here again?"

Mitzuki flashed a brilliant smile, "Ohayo! Yep, here again," she hugged Akamaru close, "with this guy here, how could I not?"

"Not joining in with them?" she indicated the two blurs disappearing round the corner of the house as shouts of "baka, give that back!" and mad laughter echoed behind them.

Mitzuki shook her head, still smiling, "Nah, too tired today. Ne, Akamaru?" Akamaru barked his approval.

Hana smiled, then bid her farewell, she was on her way to her job; Mitzuki had been awed when she had discovered Hana was a veterinarian. She shouted a "goodbye slackers!" at the top of her lungs as she left the gate, probably meant for Naruto and Kiba who at that moment were behind the house.

Not long after Mitzuki also said her goodbyes. Leaving earlier than usual, she saw Naruto's face fall as he waved, Kiba, noticing the momentarily lapse of concentration, snatched the photo from his slack grip. Holding it close he ran for the inside of the house as Naruto, now turning his attention back to his hand, noticing the missing item, bolted after him.

Mitzuki smiled, the people of Konoha were too cool.

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She needed some quiet, and immediately her thoughts wondered to the cloud gazing spot. She frowned as she walked, trying to remember Momoko's plans for the day; she thought she remembered her saying something about reading this great new book she had. That would mean she was with Shino. Mitzuki considered this; she could always go there, that was quiet, but then remembering the last time she'd visited them she shook her head frantically. No way, that was more than silence, it was a concentrated silence. She was sure they'd become irritable if she joined them. Not one to take that chance she decided bothering Shikamaru was safer, with or without Momoko.

Continuing her walk across the village she passed numerous shops, now open and thriving with business. The sun was shining and everywhere she looked most people were bearing smiles. She shrugged, usually she'd feel the same, but every time she remembered him…Orochimaru… well he'd put anyone into a bad mood. What annoyed her most was that she was at this time remembering him with one of the things she loved most…it really annoyed her…

Coming out of her thoughts she stopped. She had already made it there, her legs luckily having remembered the route and carried her the right way. The calm serene atmosphere was already a remedy. She made her way over to her usual spot on the grass, looking over to the bench she could see that, sure enough, he was there. She caught his eye and he nodded, she acknowledged him with a smile, and sat down on the grass. With a sigh she fell back onto the grass and stared at the sky at the traces of petals floating on the breeze. She gazed entranced by the clouds and momentarily her thoughts wondered what Shikamaru would think of when he lay there.

I'm sure she'd be surprised to know, that at that moment, he was considering her. His usually calm mind was buzzing, trying to work out why she was here, not just this time, but ever. He was a good analyser of people, and could tell that coming to gaze at clouds when there was more to be done wasn't an immediate aspect of her character. He pondered as he watched a large cloud swallow a small wisp. Then he wondered why he cared, it was too troublesome to get involved, wasn't it? Finally, with a sigh he decided to just ask: he may not like being bothered, but right now his conscience was wreaking havoc with the "relax!" section of his mind. It was just too troublesome not to, he concluded.

He took a deep breath, then, "Oi, Mitzuki," Mitzuki turned her head to look at him, "what's up? There's something on your mind, I can tell."

Mitzuki sat up, looking at him, disbelieving, "How could you tell?"

Shikamaru sighed, "When you've been in the business of watching as long as I have, you can see just about anything."

Mitzuki smiled, "That's cool, but why do you care? You don't strike me as the sort of guy to get into things like this."

"Let's just say, the conscience is a vicious thing, it won't let me rest until I ask."

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Mitzuki sat considering for a while. Slowly she walked over to the bench and knelt down beside it, near his head, leaning her arms on the arm rest and her head on top of that. She noticed him stiffen from her sudden movement and muttered absently, "relax." They were quiet for a bit, Mitzuki still wondering how to explain what she was thinking about, Shikamaru just plain nervous of the close proximity. Trying to forget it he focused on the clouds once more; he had time, he'd wait.

Then suddenly he found her head blocking his view. She was leaning over him, face shadowed, eyes bright blue staring into his; her hair seemed on fire from the sun behind her, seemingly swimming in the deep blue which was the sky, along the current which was the wind. As the golden tresses continued to swerve about, kept in check by the rose ribbons, he tried not to allow his shock to show on his face, though he was sure his eyes had widened.

It lasted only a few seconds, but in such an awkward position, it felt like eternity. Finally she spoke,

"I know this is gonna sound completely weird, but…well, what do you think of a guitar?"

Shikamaru couldn't hide his shock so well this time, his mouth dropped open as he stared up at her, was this some kind of joke? "I….um… why do you ask?" But her face was serious…

She paused before answering, "…Well, what would you do if you'd never been allowed play the kind of music you wanted? Let's say you were forced to play classical music, and sure you love that and your instrument….but if you wanted to play something else as well… what would you do? I'm sorry this isn't making any sense, is it?"

Shikamaru stared, no not really, not to me anyway. He cleared his throat as he looked at her troubled face, "Well, I'd say go for it. If you couldn't but now you have a chance, and if that's what you really want, then go for it." Maybe this was a metaphor for something...?

Mitzuki still looked troubled and unsure, "You really think I should?" she asked as she stood up.

He nodded, "Sure, why not, what harm could it do?"

She started to leave, "Thanks Shikamaru kun, I'll see you around, yeah?"

He lay there listening to her leave, suddenly the sky felt empty without her face before it, he frowned, unsure. Then spotting something, Momoko had mentioned that Mitzuki liked them, he sat up and called to the retreating blond head, "Oi Mitzuki, look there."

She turned, and saw him pointing; following his gaze she saw a large cloud in the sky, it had the shape of a rabbit, large cotton ears and all. She squealed,

"Aww, it's a bunny chan! Isn't it so kawai?!"

She was smiling, face lit up, when she caught Shikamaru looking at her. She turned, tilting her head, "Nani?"

He stared a moment longer, then gave a lazy grin, "Yeah, you definitely go for it."

She looked at him, "What makes you so certain?"

He was lying back down now, "Because if it'll make you happy, then you'll smile some more. You look best that way, a frown doesn't suit you."

Her smile stretched and she felt truly happy, "Arrigatou Shikamaru kun, I'll do just that!" She turned running away with a spring her step, hair flowing out behind her, "Ja ne!"

He felt his conscience's probing reside and returned to relax mode, not noticing the blush the blond was concealing as she disappeared from sight.

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Mitzuki pressed her face and hands against the glass in awe. So there was a music shop in Konoha! She tore her gaze away and looked at the neighbouring shops. It was a quiet and not often visited street, dark and cheerless. But why is it in a place like this? She looked back into the shop window, gazing at the main instruments. There was a violin, shiny and clean, the wood gleamed in the light, it seemed perfect, bow laid before it; beside it a flute displayed on its case, the silver colour shone from any angle; a clarinet stood proud and tall beside, its black body contrasting greatly with the silver metal surrounding it. There was also a tambourine on the display, a set of small hand drums and a plain normal silver triangle, which made her laugh.

Some movement from inside caught her eye, she looked up and saw an old man tottering around inside. So it was open? She continued examining the instruments, while taking a good look at him as he hobbled over to the counter; he had a white-grey shock of hair on his head, with traces of brown, he had a slight moustache, also white grey, and a pair of neat spectacles, gold in colour sat on his nose. He had wonderfully clear light blue eyes, which seemed to radiate his knowledge and looked as though he could see through you, into the depths of your soul. Not a large man, he had a slightly crooked back, but the years had been kind to him, and despite the white hair, he had few wrinkles on his face. He wore a white shirt with a tie, a black blazer and trousers.

He had a violin in his hands and was expertly tightening and fitting the strings on, his hands moving so quickly and lightly, it seemed as though he wasn't touching the instrument at all. Then he looked up, obviously feeling Mitzuki's gaze. He saw her and smiled warmly; freeing one hand he beckoned her in. Mitzuki felt nervous as she opened the door slowly, this was a real musical expert, she could tell. Momoko no doubt, after their first encounter with Jiraiya san, would jump to conclusions and proclaim the man a hentai without justification, Mitzuki thought vaguely as she approached the counter. However, the moment she looked into his eyes she could tell; this was just a nice guy who loved music.

"Irasshaimase, young lady, nice to meet you. I'm Kirishima Kuze, but you can call me Kuze."

Mitzuki bowed her head slightly, "Konnichiwa Kuze san, I'm Kamio Mitzuki. A pleasure to meet you too."

He smiled, "So Mitzuki chan, what are you up to today?"

Mitzuki felt strange, though she couldn't remember her own, this man felt like her grandpa. She tried to hide the feeling and gave her best smile, "Well I've been thinking about getting an instrument, I was wondering if I could take a look around, if you don't mind that is."

He nodded, still smiling, "Go ahead, it'd be a pleasure. In this room there are mainly wind instruments," he waved a hand around, Mitzuki nodded, "in the second," he pointed to an open doorway, leading to a second room behind the shop, "there are mainly string instruments. We have a number or electric instruments in there too, as well as a drum kit. Although I doubt you'd be buying it, we also have a piano in there. Please take your time and enjoy."

Mitzuki thanked him and browsed the first section with some interest. Numerous clarinets and flutes, piccolos and recorders and many other instruments lined the tables, desks and cabinets. Though they looked very similar, each radiated their own unique personality. She stopped at a particularly shiny flute. It echoed Momoko's laziness. She smiled and made her way to the next room. On the walls violins had been hung by their necks from rails, a similar thing on the other side, though this time with guitars. In the corner, just as he'd said, there was a large piano, dominating the room proudly beside the only window, through which some sunshine succeeded in penetrating the darkness, whilst in the other corner a drum kit mocked it with its own overwhelming presence. The room seemed laced with magic or something more, in the still warmth from the sun.

Mitzuki walked past the violins with interest, 4/4, 3/4, 2/4…she reeled off the sizes in her head. She walked past the drum kit, impressed at its size, the same with the piano. Now she found herself with the guitars. The first section were all acoustic, the second was what she was looking for, electric. Their surfaces were highly polished and radiated something just downright cool, the strings seemed highly tuned and the designs were brilliant. Rather than gushing about it all day, she decided to find one which spoke to her. She looked at the first, a plain black…no, the colour was good, but not for her. A light blue caught her attention; she looked at it for a moment, then shook her head, no not this one. This continued in a similar way for a few minutes; a pure white with a purple dragonfly; a bright orange with a black flash of lightning, a baby pink with a sakura flower design. Then she saw it. This was the guitar for her.

It was black, the whole body, including the head, though the neck was a dark brown along the fingerboard. The silver of the strings complimented it beautifully, but more than anything, it was the design which spoke to her; hotrod flames of red, orange and yellow, fading into one another along the bottom. It was perfect; she loved fire. She ran a hand along it, making up her mind; yep, definitely.

She left the room and went to the counter where Kuze was finishing up the violin he'd been working on. "Ano…"

He looked up and smiled, "Ah, hallo again, did you find what you wanted?"

"Hai. You see there's-"

A bell tinkled cutting her off as a woman bustled into the shop, a handbag swinging from her arm and a box of some sort wrapped in tin foil. She had a plump figure and wore a cream cardigan on top of her blouse. She had a floral patterned skirt on and dark shoes. Her face was pretty with few wrinkles, surrounded by her dark curled hair, reaching just below her ears. Her rosy cheeks along with her warm smile gave her a very motherly look. She walked to the counter and put the tin foil box before Kuze,

"There you are dear, an early lunch today." Then noticing Mitzuki, "Why hallo there, dear, a customer, are you? I'm Kuze's wife, call me Ayu, pet."

Mitzuki nodded, "Kamio Mitzuki, nice to meet you Ayu san."

Ayu beamed. "You were just about to buy something?"

Mitzuki snapped out of her trance; this lady truly radiated a kind soul, "Ah, yes. I was wondering if I could buy that guitar in the back. The black one, with the hotrod flames. It's right within my price range luckily."

Kuze smiled, "Why yes, of course. A personal favourite of mine, to be sure." He struggled to get up, but Ayu pushed him back down,

"There, there dear, I'll go get it," without giving him a chance to protest, she bustled off into the back.

Kuze sighed, "A good woman, my Ayu. Maybe too good for me." He reached behind for a packet of picks.

Seconds later Ayu returned with the guitar in one hand, and a floppy rubbery leather case in the other. Laying it on the counter she confirmed that this was indeed the right guitar with Mitzuki.

Mitzuki nodded, "Yes, that's it." She looked at Kuze, "Um, how much more would it cost for an amp?"

Kuze exchanged a quick look with his wife, who nodded, smiling warmly; she walked back to the second room retrieving a small amplifier. "For you dear, nothing."

Mitzuki shook her head, fearing she'd misheard, "Sorry, how much did you say?"

Ayu repeated Kuze's words, "Nothing dear, you can have it for free."

Mitzuki shook her head again, firmly. "No I couldn't do that. That really wouldn't be right."

Kuze raised a finger, "Now you listen to me. Music is a forgotten luxury in Konoha. Most people aspire to be shinobi, or spend their time on meaningless tasks. But music is a passion that I rarely come across these days and it pains me. You, I can see it in your eyes, you love music don't you?" Mitzuki nodded, riveted by his speech, "what do you play?"

"Um, mainly the violin, though I've sat in front of a piano before, and my guitar playing's not too shabby."

"You see? You are one of a select few in this village, Mitzuki chan. Very few people visit my shop these days, and business isn't what it once was. For me bringing music into the world was the main reason to keep this shop, though it probably costs more than it makes. At one point I had almost lost faith that anyone would come by again, but it was my Ayu here, bless the woman, who persuaded me to stay open." Here Ayu smiled, her rosy cheeks becoming rosier. "If I have one thing I want to do, before I die, it is to bring music back to this village again. That's why I'll give you the amp, as long as you try to do that for me. You'll do it won't you?"

Mitzuki nodded again, finding she couldn't speak due to the lump in her throat.

"There we are then, it's decided."

As he had been talking, Ayu had put the guitar in its case, along with the extension cord and picks. It now stood next to a cardboard box, a plastic handle extending from the top,

in which the amplifier was placed. Mitzuki slowly handed over the money, mind reeling.

Ayu passed her the box and the guitar case. Mitzuki slowly walked to the door feeling tears welling up in her eyes. She couldn't be more grateful to this adorably kind couple, she had to show her feelings somehow, opening the door she placed the box on the floor holding it open. She turned to Kuze and Ayu,

"Kuze san, Ayu san, thank you. I really can't thank you enough. I'll try my best to spread music around the village, zettai! It's not much, but any concert, gig, performance or anything I have, you will always be welcome as special guests."

Tears now flowing freely she ran up to Ayu and flung her arms around her middle, "Can I visit you guys sometimes?" Was this what grandparents were like? It must be...

Ayu stroked her head softly, "Of course dear, it'll be a pleasure to see you."

She wiped her tears and walked to the door picking up both guitar and amp. About to leave she turned back to the sound of Kuze's voice,

"Oh, about the concerts, we'll be there, count on it."

Mitzuki smiled wide and nodded as she left, disappearing past the shop windows.

Ayu looked at Kuze. They both shared a smile,

"A nice girl, that Mitzuki chan."

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Mitzuki walked into the apartment she shared with Momoko and headed straight to the bedroom. She placed the guitar gently on the bed and the amp beside it, then sat down on the edge. She put her head into her hands, the quiet of the room allowing her to think freely, as the twittering of the local wildlife could be heard. She couldn't take this feeling right now: overwhelming guilt.

Kuze san and Ayu san, they were so great to me just now; even though their business isn't doing too well, they were kind enough to just give that amp away. I already feel as though I can love them as my own family…and the thought that one day I may have to kill them if Orochimaru samma orders it, it's just too much…

She looked up and gazed at the wall for a few minutes, steadying herself. The minutes ticked by slowly. Finally she decided she'd go drown her sorrows in the music she held so dear, that way she'd at least be able to take her mind off things. And it'll be like starting Kuze san and Ayu san's mission, she thought, a little more cheerful.

She got out a notebook, noted a message to Momoko, in case she returned before her, ripped it out and put it in her pocket for the moment. She wasn't going to take the guitar, not yet. Right now she needed comfort from one of her long time friends: her violin, she often called Mai.

She reached for the case under her bed and headed to the door. Leaving the note beside the fruit bowl on the dining room table, her mind drifted to the time Orochimaru had delivered their instruments to them, a few days after arriving. He'd sent two of his henchmen disguised supposedly as workers from the last inn they had stayed at. They'd then been delivered to their apartment by an astounded Izumo and Kotetsu, asking how they could forget something so important. Mitzuki as astounded as they were had tried to cover it up by saying it had been intentional, they hadn't been able to carry them such a long way.

She walked down the winding stairs. Orochimaru had refused to ever let them play anything other than, what he referred to, as the "classics." If the composer wasn't world famous and hadn't written something that could be played in a concert hall, then it wasn't allowed. Often they'd find themselves playing for his enjoyment during the evenings, Momoko on her flute, Mitzuki the violin, Kabuto sometimes joining in with his cello. She remembered the time Momoko had asked if they could play some pop or some rock. Orochimaru had been in a particularly good mood and had not hit her for such a ridiculous suggestion, but only laughed in contempt,

"There will not be any boulder, pebble or rock in this mansion, and that goes for soda, pop or any other wild idea they've come up with. No, only the classics."

Mitzuki smiled weakly as she stepped out the door to a sunny afternoon, not anymore, at least not while they were here…

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Mitzuki looked around. The place was beautiful, serene and had a mellow atmosphere. She was in the small garden like park outside the main building where Tsunade's office was located. Here the distance to the hospital was short, so patients would be able to visit it freely. It was quite a new accessory to the village, having been completed a little under a year ago, to give the people some time to relax and forget the stress of fighting enemies such as Orochimaru, as well as memorial to the 3rd and 4th Hokages; two statues depicting the 3rd and 4th could be found directly in the centre, tall and proud, the Third ruffling the Fourth's hair. Now, as fighting was rare, it was mainly used by families with young children, the hospital patients and Tsunade herself enjoyed strolling in it, often with a bottle of sake in one hand and an angry Shizune not far behind her, brandishing scrolls.

It was everything Ino had told her it would be; during one of their girly talks, Ino had commented on how truly beautiful Konoha's latest attraction was. Hinata, TenTen and Sakura had heartily agreed, suggesting that Mitzuki visit one day herself. Now she was here she could barely take in just how cute it was.

There were a number of paths leading through it trees lining parts of them, with benches positioned every few metres along them. There were some open spaces, where only grass grew, but also small gardens full of blooming flowers, roses and daffodils, along with forget–me-not's, sprinkles of daisies and wildflowers like foxgloves, while a few pale creamy lilies radiated their exotic perfume above all. Finally near the centre of the park like area, not far from the monuments, was a large lake-like pond. The water sparkled in the sun, waves and ripples creating dazzling effects. Some reeds lined the edge and danced in the breeze. What struck her most of all was how wild yet maintained the whole place appeared, the effect was enchanting.

She took the path down to the pond and put the case down on the grass beside it. For a moment she watched the people passing by, then, when she was sure the place was almost empty, she opened the case and took out her violin. She took the bow out, tightened it slightly, applying some rosin and then tightening it again. She then rested the violin on her collarbone, positioning the bow in her hand so that the thumb and first two fingers curled round it, the third steadying it and the little finger resting on top of it. She made sure her posture was as good as it could be and slowly ran the bow down the G string, a low note being produced. Changing direction to an upward bow she played the D string; a downward bow for the A string; finishing with an upward bow on the highest string, the E string. She tightened the G string ever so slightly, too low, then ready, closed her eyes and began to play.

She started off with a simple tune, the gavotte. Bow moving lightly and gently, the tune sounded spirited and lively; a smile graced her face as she inhaled the lilies perfume, wafting on the warm air. Already feeling more like her old self she finished the piece, paused for a moment and then started another. As the bow moved up and down she found herself nicely surprised; she wasn't remembering the times with Orochimaru, the murderous intent she'd been feeling all too often now, nor the stuffy dark malicious aura of the mansion, but instead found herself thinking of her new friends here and her new life. She played a few more pieces, some long and melancholy, most happy and short, until she felt the sun behind her; it was beginning to set. She realised that now would be the time that people may start to complain for "disturbing the peace," so considering stopping, she finished the last piece, holding the note, letting it fade. She held the pose for a moment, but then heard an incredible and unexpected sound…applause?

Mitzuki opened her eyes and jumped at the sight in front of her. As she'd been playing, lost in her thoughts she'd been too absorbed to notice anything around her, due to this she was completely unaware when a mother and child had passed by, then intrigued, stopped to listen. A couple walking hand in hand had also followed their ears to the sweet sound, as had another dozen or so people. Now all were applauding her politely, small children asking her to play again. She knew her face displayed shock as she heard some laughter, so blushing she bowed her head, her blush hidden by her fringe and bangs,

"Ano, thank you everyone, but I wasn't expecting this…um…so you know I've finished for today, so there's no need to stay, anyuu I'm embarrassed!"

Slowly the small gathering dispersed, children shouting back to her as they were dragged by their mothers,

"Ne, play again, yeah? That was cool!"

"I'll come again, teach me how to do that!"

Mitzuki raised a hand, waving uncertainly. Finally she was alone and went to her case, ready to pack away, but jumped when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Spinning round she came face to face with a set of brilliantly blue eyes.

"Naruto! Is that you!?"

Naruto grinned, seemingly pleased that he'd almost given her a heart attack. She put a hand on her chest, steadying her beating heart.

"Ne, Mitzuki chan, I had no idea you could play the um…." He rubbed the back of his head, embarrassed, "Ne, Mitzuki chan what is that?" He gestured to her left hand, which was clutched around the instrument's neck.

Kuze san wasn't kidding, these people really are musically deprived, she mused, then smiled, "Wow, Naruto, you're pretty dense. Never seen a violin before?"

Naruto grinned, "No, but I knew what it was, seriously." Mitzuki looked at him doubtfully. "I'm being honest, Mitzuki chan, I've never seen one, but I'd heard about them, I just wanted to see you smile that's all."

Mitzuki felt colour rising to her cheeks. Having just calmed her beating heart, she was astounded to find it racing again. The beating increased even more as she saw Naruto, having noticed her blush, blush himself, stuttering excuses,

"I didn't mean that – I – well, you weren't yourself today – and – I – well, I felt worried – w-what am I saying I didn't feel worried – no wait – I did – I just – would you play something for me?!" The last part was obviously something unintentional, but he rode on it, "Yeah, that's it. Mitzuki chan, please play for me."

Mitzuki nodded, mind feeling oddly numb, she turned, taking position again, in front of the setting sun; the oranges and yellows were turning into pink wisps, as they ran into a purple blue sky. She set her bow on the string and took a deep breath and closing her eyes; hearing Naruto sitting down on the grass in front of her, she played the first note. Unaware of what she was playing, she knew the blush was still strong on her cheeks and her heart still pounded, in these few minutes she'd have to work out why.

How? Why? I don't get it…why'd I blush when he said that? Why was there a rush of happiness when he said he wanted to make me smile? Why's my heart beating so hard and why now? Why do I feel as though I've had an electric shock? Considering, she realised this could work to her advantage, maybe if she charmed him enough then and there she could lead him back to Orochimaru. Putting her emotions into her playing, she straightaway had doubts, could she really do this? Moments later she reduced the flow of emotions into the instrument, sure she could infatuate someone playing like this, but in reality, she couldn't, not to Naruto… A wave of sickening guilt was already spreading throughout her, her insides clenching uncomfortably as her thoughts hissed at her. You're more like him than you thought, huh? Maybe he didn't influence you; maybe you're like this anyway. Just thinking of tricking the kid is proof!

The tune was a gentle one, soft and full of feeling, it sounded like a song with whispered words Naruto concluded as he stared at the girl playing before him. As she finished, holding the last note, letting it fade, he saw how the sun's rays caught in her hair, making it a multitude of swirling golds and oranges. Feeling as though he was in a trance he continued staring, feeling a hold. Suddenly it was gone but he felt just as warm as he had when that feeling had come.

"Ne, Mitzuki chan, you look real pretty."

He hadn't realised what he was saying, it had just slipped out and now he clamped a hand over his mouth in shock. Mitzuki's eye's had shot open, and she stared at him. Her heart was racing once more and she felt that tingle again. She'd set him free hadn't she? She hadn't continued using that detestable trick, right? Was this a true feeling or was it an after effect of the charm?

"What did you say?"

Naruto was blushing deeper than ever before, trying to save himself he dodged her question with one of his own, "Mitzuki chan, that was a really beautiful song, what's it called?" He laughed nervously.

Mitzuki felt slightly crestfallen, though she didn't understand why, it was an after effect, so what? Why should I care? Even if I did, I've only know him for a short time… she started putting the violin away. Besides if I get too close... When she'd finished, and straightened up she turned to him, "It's a piece by a composer called Schubert. It's usually referred to as Ave Maria," she held the case, feeling empty, "Well, if that's all Naruto, then I should probably get going." She began to leave, but stopped when she felt a hand holding her back,

"Ne, Mitzuki chan, stay for a bit – um – we can watch the sunset." Naruto didn't know why he'd stopped her, he didn't know why he'd said what he said earlier, but the fact was, he had. He was going to make the most of it. He sat back down and patted the grass beside him, "Come on, pull up a bit of grass."

Mitzuki sat, sighing; she had a feeling she wouldn't have been able to say no anyway. Side by side they watched the sunset for a few moments in silence, the beauty of it enough to make someone cry. The orange streaks of sunlight, mixed like an oil painting with the sky, but with the gentleness of a watercolour; they ran into each other as though close friends, part of one another, radiating warmth. She gazed at it when she heard Naruto's voice beside her,

"Ne, Mitzuki chan, you know you asked me what I said, and I just avoided you asking what that song was called?" Mitzuki nodded, glancing sideways at him, his eyes were fixed on the sunset and his voice was serious, though nervous, "Well, I wanted to say sorry, it's just I couldn't believe what I'd said and felt nervous. But…" he started picking the grass in front of him, "thinking about it now, I'd say it again, because… I think I mean it…" He turned his head to look at her, a grin on his face again, "in fact I will. Mitzuki chan you're pretty."

She felt her heart running a marathon again. What was happening to her? Without her mind's permission, she'd turned to face him, looking into the deep blue eyes as they sparkled in the light. The atmosphere felt inviting. Without realising it both were drawing closer and closer, faces inches apart, Mitzuki could feel his steady breathing on her skin, tantalising it with warmth. Her blush reigned supreme again, though she was glad that at least he was red too. Finally she felt a tingle in her spine as their lips met.

Mitzuki felt on fire and closed her eyes in bliss, she didn't care about what would happen afterwards, and it just felt so right. Forget what Orochimaru would do if he found out. Forget what Momoko chan would say. Forget that Naruto's Nine Tails may realise the truth. Forget everything…

Afterwards she heard his voice, now deeper and quieter, beside her ear,

"Mitzuki chan, I'll do anything to see your smile."

Mitzuki's heart soared for a blissful moment before plunging seconds later, her unfinished thought of a few minutes past had returned.

Besides, if I get too close... it'll hurt...

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Momoko opened the apartment door, stepped inside and locked it. She'd avoided Gai's advance as she passed his door and succeeded in reaching safety. She looked at the clock across the room, it was ten after ten. She let out a yawn, feeling a little tired. Walking to the bedroom wondering where Mitzuki was, she was shocked to find her kneeling on her bed, staring out of the window, as though lost to the world. She had a finger on her lips and kept running it over them as though uncertain. She didn't look round as Momoko entered, but continued to stare out at the newly risen moon.

"Mitzuki chan, hi," said Momoko unsure.

Mitzuki continued looking out the window as she answered, "Oh, hey Momoko chan. Hope you had a nice day. What do you say to starting a band?"

Momoko felt more unease, "Mitzuki chan, you okay? A band sounds cool and all, but it sounds like there's something more you wanna tell me. Is there?"

Mitzuki finally tore her eyes from the window, turning to look at her. Momoko's mouth dropped open as she finally said it,

"Ano, Momoko chan... I kissed Naruto kun." Her head dropped forwards, eyes trembling as the words haunted her again.

Besides, if I get too close... it'll hurt too much... to let go... Am I really that heartless and cruel...?

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Chapter 9 by Kamio Mitzuki

A word from the author:

Yes! That makes a nice change from writing battles and fights. And yes I know it's weird, having them play instruments and stuff, but it may balance out to the darker parts of the story, which shall, inevitably, come. As you can see, this focused mainly on Mitzuki, though the next will be mainly Momoko, and please remember what I said, though this sort of pairing has emerged, it may not last, so don't get upset or anything. Hides from angry readers Anyways in case people get confused about Akamaru's size, I'll clear it up now. I know that he's supposed to grow up big and be like a giant of a dog, but I preferred the idea of a cute little Akamaru, so he's no bigger than he was before.

So yep, that's it, look out for Momoko's chapter, out soon.

Hope you liked!

Hugs and Huggles from,

Mitzuki