Broken

"Senju Ai is now the head of her clan. As such, a certain level of decorum must be maintained - even as she learns to rain death on Konoha's enemies. The Elemental Nations will remember the Senju clan was feared with good reason." Continuation of: Cosmic Comedy. WARNINGS: Strong OC, OC-centric, Dark, Gore. Rated M for: Adult situations (limes), language and shinobi business.

Secondary warning: Homosexual, bisexual, heterosexual, asexual and transgender characters will be getting significant screen time. If that isn't your cup of tea, please don't read ^_^

Chapter 9 – Something worth fighting for

Chapter specific warning! There's a lot of fluff in this chapter. In fact, other than like two scenes, it's all fluff - enjoyable fluff, but fluff nonetheless. As well, there is (what I consider to be) a Lime scene towards the end of the chapter. They don't have sex, but it's rather graphic. Enjoy!

8-8


~Sunday 9:00 AM, with original and teams~

Laying down in the park, I can't help but enjoy the moment. Kouji and Daichi are with me, as are Choco and Hibari. I have my teams with me, the girls have their teams. Everyone is busy reading something, studying something. We just happen to be in the park while this is getting done.

By some stroke of luck, I have Jei with me too. It seems he's taking a day off, seeing as his parents wanted to bring the girls out to do something. No clue what, but I'll find out if it's any business of mine. That means that Pou and Raiko are here as well and seeing as they didn't feel like getting left out, that means Rika and Himono had to tag along. It's all quite cosy, really.

I know my teams are studying up on Sealing theory right now, as are Himono and Rika. I can't say what the others are reading though. As for me? I'm trying to pick apart the theory on Space-Time Ninjutsu. It's actually fascinating what one can do with it, and it's even more fascinating how few people ever attempt mastering it.

I'm pretty sure my clone will have found some more scrolls by the time we head back home – this is from Tobirama's personal collection after all, so finding more shouldn't be too hard.

"Whoa!" The sudden influx of memories comes out of nowhere. Especially considering that it's way too early to have expected Naruto to have unlocked and learned six Wind based jutsu. That boy is just a chakra monster! He is soooo turning into a Ninjutsu specialist, I can tell.

"Hmm?" Jei asks what's wrong. I apologize and just say that one of my clones brought back some shocking, but good, news. "Naruto completed his training then. That went quick." I know right! ... And how the hell does that boy read me like a book!?

Whatever, back to manipulating all that makes this plane real. "We really need a date night again soon. We've been doing way too much training and it's starting to make Ai-chan crabby." I glare at Rika. Glare daggers into her. I just humph and get back to my scroll. "See what I mean? She needs to unwind a bit!"

"It actually sounds like a good idea, Ai." Jei backs her up. "I mean come on – they have a really good action movie. Lots of explosions, lots of killing. I'm pretty sure this one guy gets tortured on screen." Hmm, tempting, tempting. Not tempting enough to make me put away my scroll though.

"Come on, Ai-chan! You've done nothing but ignore me since you got back! I need some love." Rika pouts, obviously trying to manipulate me.

"And you're not asking Rai, because...?" I drone. Everyone gets a laugh out of that.

"Well, duh! If I'm going to the movies with someone it's not exactly brain surgery to figure out who I'm going with!" I sigh, wondering why they won't let this go. "Come on, Ai, you're leaving for another three months soon. And Kami-sama knows what's going to happen after that."

I might be tempted to say that I'll be on Konoha-traitor execution duty, but Himono isn't exactly comfortable with talks of death and beheadings and the like. Not as far as I know at least. "All right, but only after I've gotten in some decent study and cuddle time. And someone needs to invite Matsuri, Sakura, Naruto, Konohamaru and Shikamaru. Whoever said person is should also consider inviting Gaara and his Matsuri, by the way. I'm plotting on getting those two together." I ignore the amused snorts and giggles.

"So who's Shikamaru and Konohamaru taking then?" Rika asks, curious. She knows me well enough to know I have a plan.

"Shikamaru's going with Temari. As for Kono-chan... let's just say we've cracked his secret wide open. He'll know to bring her or I'll blab." What'd that boy expect to happen being on a team with me, Matte-chan and Jei? Secrets just aren't safe around us! We can keep them just fine; it's the not figuring them out that irks us. And we are not the type of people that enjoyed being irked!

"You're seriously just plotting to get everyone hitched, aren't you?" Rika is the most amused of the bunch.

"Something wrong with that? It got Naruto and Hinata together after all." Now I just need to figure out something for Karin, she's of age after all. And I haven't seen or heard of her courting anyone. That needs to change.

...

I think I just thought of a way to make Gaara's Matsuri indispensable to him in the eyes of their village! "Jei, I'm really going to need to hog more of your time like this. I keep coming up with the best plans with my head in your lap." Damn it, Ai! Perverted wording, much?

I can hear her choking on her laughter before the words even start forming in her mind. "Ai, do you even-"

"Can it, Rika." Why do I love that girl again?

8-8


~Sunday 11:30 AM, with original and teams~

"I hate you people sometimes, really I do." I drone. Everyone just shrugs, knowing I'm exaggerating. Well, thinking it at least – I really do hate them right now. Who got voted for in the most eligible for inviting everyone to the movie? Yup, yours truly. Why? I'm 'efficient like that'.

Feeling too lazy to actually do it myself, means my clones will feel too lazy to get it done either. That means I have to work myself up into a mood where I do want to get it done, so I can send my clones to fucking do it. Damn it! I'm going all out against Naruto tomorrow, who'll just so happen to want to test out his new found jutsu repertoire! Can I be lazy for a few hours!?

But then again... I smirk. Wanting to talk to Gaara's Matsuri about them going on a date-date is tempting. And that opens the door to asking Temari about going with Shikamaru... And I can just 'happen' to ask Kankurou who he'd be tempted to bring... I mean, regardless of which way he swings, I should be able to hook him up – depending on his type.

Damn it! Now curiosity's got the better of me! I don't even want to wait until my clone disperses to figure this out anymore! FUCK! "Rika, I blame you for this, just so you know." I grumble, putting my scroll away. As interesting as Space-Time Ninjutsu theory is, there's just a pull that interpersonal relationships have that drives me to understand them just a little better.

Groaning one last time, "Fine!" I get up and start dusting myself off. "Does anyone know what time the movie starts?"

"Six-thirty." Jei offers without even having to think. Damn that boy's up to date. Well, I can't complain, it makes planning so much easier.

"Okay, that means dinner and time to chat, teasing the hell out of each other, and negotiations would set our ETA at Ginkai's for... Four at the latest?" Everyone agrees. Good. I make three clones sending them off to do their duties. "Usagi, I don't know what you want to do, but if you feel like lazing around here while you study, I won't complain. Just don't wander out into the village alone, okay?" With that, I start heading to the Sand Siblings' hideout – I love calling it that for some reason.

8-8


~Sunday 11:45 AM, with original~

Walking up to the front door, I knock loudly and announce that it's me. Why apologize for the intrusion when I'm not intruding and even if I was, I still wouldn't be sorry for it. Temari is the one to open the door, and I immediately start my trouble.

"Hey, Tema-chan! We're planning on going out later – couples' night. Dinner and a movie. Interested?" I smirk knowing that she'll at least try to deny wanting to come.

"Depends on who's going?" She's narrowing her eyes at me. She doesn't know me as well as the others, but she knows me well enough to know I like having a plan – or that I'd rather gouge my own eyes out than not have one.

I only offer one name, but it should be reasoning enough if I sensed her mood around him right. "Shikamaru?"

Yup, she's blushing. Busted. "And who's he going with?"

"You?" Yup, I'm invited in, she wants details and she wants them now! I'm half dragged to the sitting room, where Gaara and Kanurou are relaxing. I'm pretty sure Kankurou's tinkering with something again, but I can't see what from here.

"Details. Now." She demands.

"Well, you know my track record with spotting people who have the hots for each other but just won't do anything about it." I offer. "Shikamaru and you fit my requirements. So I'm working my magic."

"Wait! Tema-nee has the hots for Nara-kun?!" Kankurou abandons his project and is immediately interested in our conversation.

"Shut it, dweeb!" Temari is blushing so hot I think she'll pass out any second. Gaara whistles, showing he's surprised but nonetheless impressed.

"Give it up, Nee-san. If Ai's on the case you've already lost!" Kankurou seems to know my track record when it comes to this! But then again, Gaara and Naruto are practically brothers... And Gaara hangs around me a lot too... Yup, Kankurou is well up to date.

"Or won." Gaara puts in his two cents.

"Point! So, Ai-chan come on. Details please!" He's making this sooo much easier for me. And now that Matsuri is entering the sitting room, even more so.

"Well, like I said, it's a couples' night out. We do this every now and again. We're all meeting up at Ginkai's for four, having a meal and going to some action movie Jei thinks I'll like. He said something about shit blowing up and some guy getting tortured on screen? Doesn't say much to be, but..."

"Ooh! I'll bet it's that new movie from Spring Country! They've been bringing out a lot of action packed movies lately!" Matsuri's excited as well. Good! Perfect!

"Could be! Anyway, I'm inviting my usual crew." I give them a rundown of who all that includes these days. I do make sure to point out that Raiko and Rika are an unofficial couple, but they count as a couple nonetheless. "I've also already sent out clones to invite Naruto and Hinata, Sasuke and Sakura, Shikamaru for Temari, Shikamaru's little sister Matsuri – who we mostly call Matte-chan – and her boyfriend, who's a Nara, and Konohamaru with his 'mystery date'." I offer vaguely. Offering vague information always gets people interested.

"Sounds like a blast! You've basically got nothing but Shinobi going out for a night out. That's always interesting!" Kankurou offers. Slowly but surely I'm building up a profile on him – his defences seem to be down right now, so there's no better time!

"Yup! And I want to discuss some important matters with Gaara and Matsuri while we're there. So they have to come as well." I don't bother hiding my cocky smirk, knowing they've been following this whole conversation. In other words, they know this is a 'date night' and they are being conned into a 'date-date', simply because I won't even let it slide if they blow me off! I'm so evil when I'm playing Ms Matchmaker.

Much to my surprise –and everlasting joy– neither seems upset by the notion. They just share a look and both readily agree. JACKPOT! Okay, no squealing, Ai! That's two – I had Temari from the time I mentioned Shikamaru's name.

"But I'd feel bad if we leave Kankurou out!" I complain. "I know you didn't bring a date with you, but I can arrange one if you tell me your type?" I leave that purposely open-ended to ensure that, no matter his type, I'll gladly help.

"Nah, I doubt you could help me with this." He tries, but he's eyeing me a little too close, so he knows I'm up to something.

"Come on, Kankurou! I can't leave my Gaara-nii's older brother stranded and alone! I mean, the house will be empty while we're all having a good time. How do you think that's going to make us feel?!" Evil. Unapologetically, unabashedly, simply and thoroughly evil. Don't ever get between me and my need to hook people up, damn it!

"And that has what to do with me?" He tries, he's mentally backing up now, seeing what my plot is. Too bad the trap's already set and he's caught in the middle of it.

"Tema-cha~aaaan! Are you really going to let him mope alone while we go out and have the time of our lives?" Rule number one about emotional blackmail, know their weaknesses and how to exploit them. Temari has a country sized weakness for her brothers, so there's nothing that's going to stop her from helping me now!

"Come on, Kankurou-dono! You don't really want to stay here alone do you? I mean, who'll guard Gaara while he's out?" Ooh, I think I just got Matsuri on my side too!

"You're going with enough manpower to level a country. Do you really think I'll add anything?"

"A brother's love?" Matsuri isn't giving up so easily. "I mean, come on. What would make Gaara happier than seeing both of his siblings enjoying a night out?" I knew I was going to like her! And don't think I missed the lack of honorifics, let alone that it happened twice in a row!

"Kankurou! Stop being a coward and just tell her!" Temari's in 'big sister mode now'. Yea! I can taste victory's sweetness already!

"Come on, Kankurou... it's not like I'm judging you for liking whatever you're into!" Again, very open-ended. That can mean ANYTHING!

"Fiiine!" He groans. "I like older guys, okay!"

"Yeah, but what kind? You like them dominant? Submissive? You like buff or sleek? Hairy or smooth? Details are important if we're going to narrow down the choices, you know!" I don't even blink, showing him that I really am okay with whatever he's into.

He gazes at me. He blinks. He turns to Temari, he blinks again. Then Gaara gets two blinks. He just can't seem to process this at all. "Dominant..." He begins, almost as if he's testing me to see at what point I'll freak out. Sorry, Kankurou, but I'm quite used to all kinds of people. "Preferably buff... Smooth. And shinobi is a must! I tried dating civilians, but that just never ends well." He gets more and more comfortable as he goes. Hmm, for some reason Ibiki is the first to pop into my mind.

"At least a Chuunin, I'm guessing? I mean, dating a Genin is kind of... bleh?" I think out loud. I mean sure, Jei and I were both Genin when we started dating, even when we got engaged, but there was never a doubt in our minds that the other would not get promoted at some point.

"Definitely!" He seems to have recovered his earlier enthusiasm. Especially now that he can see that I'm okay with his sexuality.

"Hmm, I have a few in mind. But I can't just out everyone to you! Would you trust me enough to set you up on a blind date? I swear on all that is holy that I'm keeping your desires and preferences in the forefront of my mind!"

He takes a long moment to think about that. "Hmm, can't say I'm too thrilled about the idea. But it's better than nothing?"

I squeal, unable to contain my joy any longer! Then I glomp the poor boy, laughing like a madwoman as we tumble over the floor. I just enjoy the moment, enjoying that he feels safer around me than he ever has. But eventually, I decide it's time to get things in motion.

"This is going to be soo much fun! Kami-sama, I soo need to get busy! Alright, meet me at my house for three-thirty. That'll give me plenty of time to update Kankurou on who's coming and we can take our time to get to Ginkai's! You two should dress however you feel to dress. Temari, Matsuri, if you don't have anything you want to wear tonight, feel free to come over to my place. We have closets full of options ranging from full on kimonos to more practical kunoichi-wares. Although... I'm sure Jei and Pou might have something if you guys need something nice too. It's up to you. Ciao!" So much to do, so little time!

8-8


~Sunday 3:30 PM, with original~

Okay! I have everything set up! Everyone is ready – including Choco. Kami-sama knows it takes an act of Kami-sama to get that girl ready on time! We're outside, waiting on our go-withs to show up. Sasuke and Sakura are the first to arrive, and little Mikoto is wide awake and gurgling about something that her daddy is trying to get her to say.

I greet them warmly, calling for Inaho to come out – she's waiting nearby, knowing that she's on babysitting duty tonight. I do make sure that Tenzo and Hayate are staying in tonight, to ensure that everyone –Yuugao especially– will be well guarded. "Thank you so much for babysitting for us, Inaho-san. It's been so long since we've had a night out!"

"Think nothing of it, Sakura. You're family after all!" Inaho says, taking Mikoto carefully. She bounces the little girl on her hip a few times, playing one of her favourite games. She's going to be an adrenaline junkie when she gets older, I can already tell. She loves all the rough and rowdy games we play with her after all. "And please, call me Ina-chan, everyone does. Isn't that right, Miko-chan?"

"Ah-brrrrr! Gaaaaah!" Mikoto offers her opinion, nodding sagely after she's said her piece. She then start drooling all over Inaho's kimono, not that she minds – Kimiko was just as bad from what I hear, and I know for a fact both Sango and Michiko were as well. Inaho just wipes the girl's mouth with her sleeve to prevent any more drool from running down. Which lasts for about three or four seconds. Gross, but babies are still too cute for words!

"Come on, princess. Let's get you inside. You want to try terrorizing the house again? I won't mind if you do!" Mikoto is highly amused with the conversation. Almost as amused as her father is. Finally an Uchiha who can terrorize the Senju clan... and she's turning seven months old next week. Sasuke and I share a look, before we both roll our eyes and leave it for what it is.

A moment later, Jei and his entourage join us. I can't help but stare at that boy as he casually walks towards me. He isn't dressed up at all, but somehow that boy cleans up well and he just... does things to me. "Not underdressed, am I?" He asks. Sure I went for a slightly dressier kimono (iromuji, but a high end rather than the usual ones I used to wear on missions) than I'm used to –or rather, than he's used to– but... no, I like him just the way he is. Instead of offering words, I close the gap between us and plant a kiss on his lips. I wipe away the lipstick left behind though, but he doesn't seem to notice, let alone mind.

"Does that answer you?" I whisper breathlessly. Damn, how does that boy take my breath away every time we kiss?

"Mm... Not exactly. Maybe if you...?" He trails off, looking towards... ah Naruto-nii just arrived. I had suggested that that his group wash up and go through their closet at home to ensure that they can dress however they want to dress, and to speed things up. I guess he's not going to be all kissy-face around Naruto-nii? Should have seen that coming. He turns back to me. "Maybe if you whisper it in my ear I'll take the hint better?"

I bite my lip, not in the least nervous... but I must admit that impresses me more than I thought it would. Deciding such things shouldn't go unrewarded, I lean in. "You look gorgeous." I then kiss him on the neck to further accentuate my point – though only lightly, it's one of his weak points. I can't help but feel somewhat aroused when I feel him shiver slightly from pleasure.

"You look gorgeous." He counters, whispering in my ear like it's a secret. Feeling his hot breath on my skin is not helping me maintain my equilibrium in the least. "You just happen to like how I look regardless of what I wear. Not the same thing."

Now I'm twice as glad I went all out and wore make-up and light perfume. He sniffs my neck, rubbing his nose against my bare skin. "And you smell nice too." Okay... I need a little room to breathe before I jump this boy. I push him back lightly, biting my lips and worried that he'll misunderstand – or worse, that he'll understand all too well. Judging by that knowing smirk however... shit.

"Looking good, Hina-nee!" I compliment, trying to shift focus onto anyone but me. "You too, Saku-nee! We're really making sure we reel them in tonight, huh?" I could have done without that last part! Why did I say that last part!? I'm trying NOT to draw attention to me!

"I was about to say the same thing, Imouto-chan." Sakura has too broad a smile on her lips. I think she knows what just happened. And seeing as that same smile is on Hinata... busted.

"What are you talking about, Sakura-chan?" Naruto-nii plays ignorant. I do notice he's eyeing Jei though. Not displeased, and –if I can be cautiously optimistic here– perhaps even a bit impressed? "You do look beautiful though, Imouto-chan. It's a good thing I can trust Jei around you."

I don't bother to hide my elation, it's not like he wouldn't pick up on it anyway. "Thank you, Nii-san." I can't help but feel a warm glow inside me, knowing that I'm as safe with these people as I'm ever likely to be – physically and emotionally.

Looking around –and sensing my surroundings again– I notice that Pou and Himono are with us as well. She went the same route as Choco and I, wearing a colourful kimono, while he is pretty much in uniform. He does wear it well though. As well, Raiko decided to go in her uniform, while her date, Rika, is going more low-key. Rika's wearing a short sleeve kimono top, and three-quarter leggings that accentuate her legs quite nicely. I also notice that she's wearing a pair of dangly earrings with red tinted glass – I can't tell if it's real or not, so I don't bother to figure it out.

Now we just need to... nope here they come. Gaara-nii, his Matsuri (I love calling her that for some reason, but that's a rather bad habit), Temari and Kankurou. I can't help but notice that even though they all are dressed as if ready for a mission, they are all fit to entertain a Kage at the same time. That's hard to pull off both! Temari and Matsuri decided to go with battle kimono tops with short sleeves and mid-thigh length skirts with a split running up the side... and tights underneath it, just in case. They are also wearing their shinobi sandals. Practical and good looking, quite the combination.

Gaara on the other hand, wet and combed out his hair – probably at Temari's badgering. He's also wearing a red overcoat... type thing, and a long white scarf. No gourd though. He's actually going without his sand gourd; that says something! And Kankurou... he's dressed similar to his brother, looking more like a diplomat than a Shinobi. He's forgone his war-paint as well, and his head is left entirely uncovered. I have to admit, it's hard to not notice they're siblings now, and he does look rather handsome!

I make my way to them, already linking arms with Kankurou. "Looking good there, stud!" I compliment. I already gave Jei the heads up – just to make sure he doesn't get jealous. "I got you the perfect date for tonight. He's a Tokubetsu Jounin from T&I. His name's Morino Ibiki. Have you heard of him?"

"The Ibiki? The one who was our proctor during our Chuunin Exams here?" He sounds surprised. I guess his gaydar isn't as accurate as he thinks it is.

"That's the one. He's got a rough exterior, but he's such a softie if you know which buttons to press. Interested?" I don't hold anything back, he needs to know he has a choice to go through with this or not.

He's lost in thought for a moment, but I can tell he's not in the least appalled. In fact, if I didn't know any better, I might think he is more than pleased with the opportunity. "And he knows?"

"Of course he knows. He wouldn't agree to a date otherwise. Did I get your type just right?" He looks at me incredulously.

"Perfectly! But let's not go into details out in the open." He suggests. He's already conjuring up his 'macho cloak' to keep the world from guessing who he really is. How frustrating it must be for him to have to do that.

I nod, telling him that Ibiki will meet us at Ginkai's, before I compliment both Temari and Matsuri on their looks – and pointing out how it shows skill to be so pretty and practical at the same time. I can't help but notice how Gaara beams just as much as the ladies I just complimented. Hmm, interesting. Is that pride of being associated with such kunoichi? Or is that pride that one such kunoichi is interested in him? Worth monitoring.

8-8


~Sunday 4:00 PM, with original~

Arriving at Ginkai's, I notice a few VERY interesting and juicy details. First off, Shikamaru is waiting outside for us. Not only is he not looking bored, he looks nervous. And! He has flowers! Desert Jasmines from the look of it. That is soooo sweet! As he sees us approaching, he ignores everyone and zones in on Temari. He walks up to her and offers the flowers. From the surprised, but pleased, look on her face, I'd say he picked her favourites. Coincidence? Not likely when a Nara is involved.

The second thing I notice is Konohamaru is here with Moegi, just as my clone instructed. She's dressed up, while he's wearing his uniform. I can't help but notice that she's blushing up a storm as everyone gives her a once over and is drawing more than accurate conclusions regarding their relationship. Good, she deserves to be recognized as his partner, not just as his teammate. It's not that I don't get it, he's the heir to the Sarutobi clan, she's just a nameless orphan – I get it. I just think it's bullshit, and bullshit I plan on eliminating permanently.

Next up is Matte-chan and Mitsugi. They seem to have followed the set pattern – she's dressed up, he's in his uniform. What I love about seeing them, is that he has his hand on her lower back. Subtly done, so you wouldn't notice if he didn't want you to, but I notice all the same. And I approve! As Matte-chan looks at me, our eyes meet and I offer a subtle wink. She blushes, knowing exactly what I'm talking about, but she doesn't look away. I nod to Mitsugi, showing my approval of both his subtlety and his desire to show Matte-chan affection. It's just super sweet!

Last, but most DEFINITELY not least. Morino Ibiki is outside waiting as well. He was waiting across the street, acting as if he was waiting somewhere else like a true Shinobi would, and he's also bearing a flower. A single long-stemmed red rose. He casually walks up to us (Kankurou), suggesting that we all make our way inside.

Once inside, we are immediately recognized and we are escorted to a somewhat larger private booth, given the amount of people we are dining with. We are offered our menus, but our waitress knows it takes larger groups somewhat more time to get settled in. Naruto-nii orders several pots of tea – I think he said three, each of different flavours, but I really am not sure. I just know he said a number higher than two. He also offers to take the menus for the waitress, who's trying her best not to single out Choco and start small-talk.

It takes some doing, but eventually we all agree on some rudimentary seating layout. It was taking so long, because most of us were too busy gawking at how Kankurou was blushing like mad at his date offering the rose to him. They just look so damn CYUUTE! Anyway, I end up between Rika and Jei, and Himono ends up on Jei's other side with Pou next to her. Everyone else is pretty much seated wherever, but I do notice that Daichi and Kouji put the girls between them and are seated nearest the window. And Kankuro and Ibiki are seated nearest the door. As are Temari and Shikamaru. Gaara is sitting across from me, with Matsuri and Naruto next to him. That way no one will accidently activate his sand's defences – not that I'm sure there is any sand to activate it with, but better safe than sorry.

Naruto starts passing out the menus and we actually start settling in for our pre-meal banter. "So, Ai. What is it you wished to discuss? Or was that just an empty ploy to get Matsuri and I on a date?" Gaara-nii draws all attention to himself at once. Poor Matsuri is blushing so deeply that she's matching his outfit!

"Well, to be honest it's a little bit of both. I want to discuss a means to ensure that there is no political reason to prevent the two of you from courting openly in Sand."

"Here we go, Matchmaker Ai is at it again." Rika groans, but I still sense her smiling all the same. Still, my words intrigue all around me. It isn't a secret that Gaara is both jinchuuriki and the Kazekage's son, so there is more than enough reason to prevent some no-name orphan –see a pattern here?– from courting him, and that works the other way around too. I mean, the politically snobby will always object to a noble courting anyone from a lower status. It's just 'how the world works'. It's still bullshit though.

"What I suggest is this. Allow Sakura and I train her in Medical Jutsu. Once she is proficient, you can present her to your father as someone that can guard you and heal you should the need arise. She will be one of the precious few about to get though your defences after all, so she'd be worth more than her weight in gold. Your father would be hard pressed to object, and no one could ever come up with a reason to separate you without looking like they wish you harm."

"..." Everyone mulls that over for a moment.

"And as added leverage you can say that passing her over the student of both the Senju and Uchiha matriarchs... is political suicide." I add. I can't help but feel pleased that everyone is nodding approvingly.

"And they say a motivated Nara is dangerous. Matte-chan, please tell me you're not going to take up Ai's hobbies?" Shikamaru drawls. Since when does he call her Matte-chan? Oh right, calling her full name will be confusing.

"Who do you think she comes to when she needs a second opinion, O'nii-chan?" Matte-chan bats her eyes at her now very annoyed older brother.

"I must say..." Gaara's mind is still gnawing away at the proposition. "It might just work. If either or both of you are willing?" Sakura and I exchange a look – she looks more excited than I am at the opportunity.

"We'll do it!" She announces happily. "Matsuri, I can start teaching you the basics tomorrow?"

"No need, Saku-nee. She can join the Usagi learning the basics. That way you can focus on training her when it comes to more practical work later on. And besides, anyone can teach the basics. It's the advanced stuff she'll need you for."

"That's beside the point! I want to know I've helped someone the way you helped us!" Did I just see Sasuke nod approvingly? And is his hand suddenly caressing her lower back? D'awwww!

"Alright." I concede. She's too passionate about this to let it go easily. "I'll help when you are otherwise occupied. Please do not forget this is my idea, and I want to brag that I helped train Sand's soon to be best healer ever!" Both Choco and Hibari offer the same, knowing that I'd probably ask them to lend a hand at some point anyway.

"Do you really think I could be? The best Medical Nin Suna's ever seen?" Matsuri asks, tears in her eyes.

"Without a doubt!" Sakura's the one to answer. "I saw your Chuunin exam début. You showed excellent control, forethought and caution. You seem to prefer defence over offence. And I have no doubt you have the right mindset to heal. You would rather help than harm, wouldn't you?"

"Nn!" Matsuri agrees.

"There you go. Medical Ninjutsu is the right choice for you! And other than Ai and myself, there are few better to show you the ropes!"

"I would quicker say there are few better to help you soar the heights. But... semantics." I shrug.

Just then, Choco's mom shows up and takes our orders. She's quick to offer her daughter and her date a hug though. Once she leaves... the next part of my negotiations comes to me. Oh how I love letting them stew until they come to me for help. I know... evil.

"Umm, hey Ai-chan?" Konohamaru silences the room once again. I smirk openly, showing that I know exactly what he's about to ask. "Do you think you could..." His eyes flick towards Moegi, who's fighting down her blush.

"I wouldn't push you out in the open if I hadn't planned ahead, Kono-chan." I tell him plainly. He nods, having expected as much. "I have two options for you. One is that you discuss with Asuma about either fully adopting her into the Sarutobi clan, or simply becoming a retainer for the clan. She doesn't have a name to warrant such a thing, but you could offer the story that you want your best friends taken care of as thanks for their loyalty to you... or something like that."

Konohamaru and Moegi think that over. Neither seems to think it likely, but they are considering it nonetheless. "And the other?"

"I adopt them into my clan. Or you can even arrange with Naruto that he adopts them into his. We would offer them shelter, protection and training. And once she has earned a name that demands respect, just as Kurenai has, you can present her to your council as a worthy future matriarch. If that is your intention, of course."

The room is once again deathly silent. "That would work... and seeing as no one would be surprised if I am in the Senju District often..." Kono-chan catches on quickly.

"Exactly. Not only would they be able to save their money and train to their heart's content. You would also have an easy in, and a safe place to openly court her without judgement. I mean, after all, why would we deny a future request to have a Sarutobi marry one of our clan? Your heritage does you a great service in this, I assure you." I wink at him, showing that I'm just teasing. Well, mostly just teasing.

"Ai..."

"Don't thank me, Konohamaru. I'm manipulating you, remember?" I smirk showing him how 'seriously' I mean that.

"Well, since everyone else is addressing the love guru. Mind if I give a go?" Temari teases.

"Tema-nee, please! If you ever needed someone to orchestrate your marrying Shikamaru, it would end up being the man himself. He could plan circles around me!" I toss out there, enjoying Shikamaru's annoyed blush. "Besides, Matte-chan just so happens to be a very close friend of mine, so I believe can speak for her when I say that you can always ask her or Yoshino-san for advice on how to manipulate him into anything. They've been waiting on a woman like you for years, after all!"

Everyone laughs at Shikamaru's annoyed groan. I'm not done yet though. "Besides, you'd have to pay people to not rush a wedding once they find out that the Kazekage's daughter is courting the Nara heir. Besides solidifying the Leaf-Sand alliance, you would also be marrying into a very well-off shinobi clan. No one with half a brain would dare contest that. In other words, you don't need my help in any form or fashion. Other than motivating that boy... good luck with that by the way."

"Luck? All I need to do is let slip how hot he looks when he's focused." She fans herself. Interestingly, she's not acting – she actually feels a little hot and bothered by whatever she's thinking about. "Oops. I think just did." She dramatizes. Shikamaru looks intrigued by that – I doubt anyone's ever told him that before.

"And that he happened to spend a month badgering your scary brother about your favourite flower?" Matte-chan happily supplies. Everyone turns to Kankurou, wondering if he knew about this. He just looks confused. Gaara on the other hand... He's the cat that caught the canary.

"Gaara! You told him!?" Temari is just as shocked as the rest of us.

"I did. But what else he now knows is not for me to reveal." Gaara announces cryptically. Ooh! I think someone approves of this union... See, my intervention would be totally superfluous. They're as good as married.

"Hold on, little missy. Seeing as you're going about predicting marriages and doing back alley deals to ensure that they happen... when are you two tying the knot?" Ibiki just had to go into his work mode. I try not to groan, but knowing Jei he noticed that and will be asking about it later.

"We're thirteen. Why would we be considering marriage at age thirteen? Yes, we're engaged. Yes, we will marry. But why rush into it if there is no need?" I sense more heat in my voice than I'd intended. Jei rubs my lower back, whispering in my ear not to let it get to me – it's just curiosity, he says.

"Besides, Ibiki. I'd be careful if I were you. I've interrogated your colleagues in plain sight before. I might be tempted to try my hand at you before the night is through." I offer playfully. Thank Kami-sama Jei knows my moods as well as he does; now I can just write this off as playful banter.

Even now, even if it's with Jei... the thought of my wedding day happening without Ka-san there... hurts. I lean into Jei, trying to soak up his warmth as best I can.

"Hey Ai-chan. What are the odds of you being able to change Village Law to let us get married one day?" Rika asks. I love that girl so bad sometimes. I think about that for a moment.

"Pretty decent, actually. If we can convince enough clans to support the law it should pass without too much of a problem. It'll do little for overall acceptance, but let's be honest no one likes public displays of affection in the Elemental Nations, regardless of whom is displaying it."

"What, seriously?" Raiko seems quite shocked.

"Well, yeah. I mean, even individually, Naruto, Sasuke and I hold at least as much weight in the Council as anyone. If we were motivated enough, we could easily pass a few laws, depending on who we approach about it and how." I can't help but notice how Raiko, Riko, Ibiki and Kankurou all look quite hopeful at that. There isn't a town, village, city or country in the Elemental Nations that legalized same sex marriage. In fact, there are more than a few that made it punishable by death to be homosexual. Not Konoha nor anywhere in the Land of Fire, thank Kami-sama, but there are more than I am comfortable considering that have such laws.

Hmm... speaking of which, should I start introducing myself into the Royal Courts? I would be able to have so much more political reach if I do... Worth considering.

8-8


~Sunday 5:00 PM, with clones~

This truly is the life! To be in the library, reading every hidden and/or forbidden scroll we have. I can't tell you how many forbidden or obscure jutsu we have documented here, not because I'm not counting –currently I'm at six-thousand and fifty-two documented that I've read, and eighty-two I find interesting enough to be worth learning– but because every scroll I read seems to only have more. I love my ancestors. I really do. Their obsessively journalling everything they think is important. Their meticulously keeping track of every battle so I can learn what tactics worked. I just love them so much!

I mean, they were so thorough that I found some jutsu of every element in damn near every rank! I even have jutsu of elements I didn't know were elements! Like Yin release, Yang release, and Yin-Yang release! Holy shit! I've also found Hashirama's own journal about his Wood Release jutsu! One of the other clones is copying some out of that for Tenzo – gotta make sure his skills are up to par after all!

But... what interests me most isn't the plethora of already created jutsu documented here. It's the notes that led my clansmen to creating them in the first place. Kami-sama, I've lost track of how many jutsu were created based on the jutsu creation notes of their ancestor's notes. There are even notes on how someone went about doing that! I fucking LOVE THIS LIBRARY!

And the fact that the majority of chroniclers had a primary Water affinity... it just makes this a wet dream come true. And an eye opener like you wouldn't believe! That specialized transformation jutsu Naruto-nii taught me? It's in here! Created by and Uzumaki, which is probably why it's in Naruto-nii's archives – I really get curious sometimes to snoop around in his hidden library, but I've never dared to ask. And by the way, it's Yang-release! Yup, that's why I had hell learning the jutsu, I was literally being forced to unlock Yang-release first without even fucking knowing it!

And Genjutsu? Yeah, even those basic, taught-in-the-academy-genjutsu... Yin release! All of them! It's no wonder I sucked at creating, or even learning, most Genjutsu, I was approaching them like I would a ninjutsu!

Well, that's going to change now that I know the truth! I've been writing down the training regimens of harnessing each type of elemental chakra. And that clone over in the corner... well, she's been cackling and scribbling furiously for at least an hour, so I'll just go out on a limb and assume she found something awesome too.

"Hmm? Oh, you curious what I've found?" The cackling clone asks me – she must have noticed my curiosity. Sad that I can't hide that even from myself. "How's about I clue everyone in since I'm done? I mean, we both know the original will be happy to know we've been busy while she parties her ass off." With that she disperses.

As her memories hit me... the only thought running through my head... HOLY... KAMI-DAMNED... FUCKING... SHIT!

Hashirama's Wood-release creation notes. How he went about actually trying to create his bloodline-limit. He meticulously wrote everything down! I fucking love it here! This truly is the life. I hope the original can keep her shit together while she's in the middle of everyone that knows her well enough to know she'll be up to no good from now on.

8-8


~Sunday 5:15 PM, with original~

FUCK! I hadn't expected one of my clones to disperse just yet! I damn nearly choked on my rice from the influx of memories! But... sorting through said memories... I damn nearly hyperventilate and orgasm at the same time! The notes, including a training regimen, to create the Wood-release! Holy fucking shit! Sure, I can't do Earth release to save my life and it's a requirement to be an A-ranked Water and Earth specialist before even attempting it... but do you know what I can do with that knowledge? I could start researching how to create my own fucking bloodline limit! So that's why that clone dispersed. Of course I'd want to know that!

Jei is still patting me on my back and offering some more tea to help me not choke, but I think he's either ignoring the signs, or he's purposely doing this to not make it obvious – probably the latter. "Your clones found something interesting?" He whispers in my ear. He said it so soft that I don't doubt that no one heard him but me.

After wiping my mouth in a napkin (and being super careful not to muck up my make-up) a bit, if for nothing other than not making my current situation less obvious, I turn to him. "You have no idea..." I whisper back. For some reason I find my hand rubbing against his inner thigh... curious.

Turning back to my meal, and pointedly ignoring Naruto-nii's curious and knowing look, I dig in. I can't help but feel like something big is going to happen soon. Something I may one day see as good, but right now, I'm mostly just annoyed about it – and so fucking turned on that it's taking all of my will power to not give Jei a blowjob right here and now... But that's mostly what has me annoyed; too many people I don't want to witness such an act.

Check please?

8-8


~Sunday 8:00 PM, with original~

After the movie, we start making our way back to the Senju district. Everyone wants to hang out, but I claim I just want to take a nice long soak before calling it a night – I even told Kouji and Daichi that tonight's lessons are postponed. And they heard me, so they know I'm being dead serious. I'm quite blatantly clinging to Jei right now, so he knows that he's not getting the option. I do tell the others to go on, go have fun. Especially the ones sleeping in my room, just in case.

Seeing as everyone trusts that Jei would give his life to protect me, no one complains that he's the only one I'm walking back with. Good. Very good.

As we make it to my porch, I turn to Jei. "You are going to go home and grab some clean house clothes and clean pyjamas. You are sleeping in my bed tonight." I inform him, my tone deadly serious.

"And if I refuse?" He's teasing me, but frankly I don't have the willpower to deal with this right now.

"Off the top of my head, I can think of thirty Kunoichi that would love to help me where you refuse. I'm in no mood for teasing, unless you want me to get started here and now." I lean in to kiss him, purposefully and overtly rubbing my humble bust against his chest – and shivering from the pleasure I get from the contact. Once our lips meet, I quickly deepen the kiss. I offer him the passion I've been bottling up all night. And judging from the bulge now rubbing against my tummy, I'm guessing he understands just what I'm getting at.

"I'll be upstairs washing up. Hurry or I start without you." With that, I turn and leave him standing there.

8-8


~Sunday 8:05 PM, with original~

I sense Jei walking down the hallway. No one else is upstairs with us, not even the Usagi. Good. He enters the outer room and I hear him put his things down. His pants zips open and I hear it drop to the floor. Kami-sama, having good hearing is the most exquisite torture right now.

While listening to him getting undressed, I'm losing the last of my will to not start without him. Not that I had a whole lot left. Passing the hot water over my skin, feeling how it caresses my nipples. The very same nipples that are so sensitive that only feeling the hot water running over them is making my knees tremble. No, not 'shiver'. Shivering is long gone now. And frankly, there's a fire down south that needs to be tended to before it burns away all decency – not there's a whole lot of decency left in me right now... that fire has been untended all kami-damned evening!

Fuck calm. Fuck decent. Fuck all of that! I guide the showerhead down my tummy, downwards... when I feel the scalding hot water assault my sex, I almost scream! The only thing keeping me from doing so is the lack of air in my lungs. I don't hear the door slide open, but I do sense Jei's eyes on my naked flesh. I turn to him, lust on plain display in my eyes.

"We can't have sex. You know that." I beg him with my eyes to come closer, try to control his very being with little more than a motion of my hand. He remains where he's standing.

"Why are you so far away?" I ask. My voice has never sounded so primal, demanding... lustful.

"I'm still not convinced this isn't a dream." Fuck you and your twisted logic. Come here NOW! I place the showerhead firmly against my most intimate place, my breath hitching as all I've ever known about myself to be true is washed away in a deluge of desire.

"Jei... come here... Now." I demand. He still looks unsure. Fuck it. I toss the showerhead aside and saunter up to him. Instead of kissing him to entice him, I drop to my knees. I'm in no mood for more teasing. My needs will be tended to. One of my hands lands on his hip, gripping him firmly, the other hand winds its way to finish the job the showerhead started. It's my mouth that gets all of Jei's attention though... at least, his mental attention. I lick his member, slurping him into my warm and welcoming mouth. My jaw tries to protest, complaining that this isn't what my mouth was designed for. I ignore it. I don't care.

While giving him pleasure is a kick in itself, the combination of that and feeling my slick and dripping sex... decency is overrated right now.

I slide my mouth off of him, taking a few deep breaths. "Not sex. I need release." My eyes meet his. I see his lust, his love... and his desire to please me.

"Lay back." He places a hand on my shoulder and pushes me gently. Without even registering what's going on, I find myself on my back, my legs spread wide and EVERYTHING down there on full display for him. Only for him.

I should be embarrassed, but all my brain seems to process is how his eyes are taking in every detail. My hands act without consent, and I feel them continue with their ministrations – touching, teasing, exploring every inch of me. That too his eyes hungrily take in. I'm going to lose my mind if that boy doesn't help me!

8-8


~Sunday 9:30 PM, with original~

Cuddling in bed, I can't help but sigh contently. Jei eventually got his ass in gear. And boy can that boy put his tongue to work! If I didn't feel so sensitive down there, I'd still be begging him to...

I sigh again. Best to not think about it, it won't help. "So, Ai... what was it that sparked your mood?" Jei turns me to him. He's so gentle right now, so different from in the washing room... he was so... carnal, so feral. Even though he controlled himself enough to not take my virginity, he was soo... Ai, stop. Stop picturing him!

"I think I get turned on by either knowledge or power." I confess, blushing like mad. "Probably both." Well, that certainly gets his attention.

"What do you mean?" He's thinking back to dinner. "The information your clone sent back? What'd you find out?"

"..." Well, if I can trust him enough to see my stuff, I think I should be able to trust him enough to know what I know. "I found Hashirama's research notes. The ones he made while researching how to create Wood release."

"Knowledge and power in one." He mumbles. His eyes are unfocused as he processes that. "So, the best way to get you hot and bothered is to teach you things you didn't know?" That never used to be the case, not like this. But that definitely seems to be the case now.

Again, I blush hotly at where this is going. That we stopped after he made my entire body convulse, was because I felt too sensitive down there to continue... not because I actually wanted to stop. "Behave, Jei. I mean it. There's no way anything else is happening tonight."

He pauses to think about that. "I'm starting your training in Lightning-release tomorrow." Fuck! Knowledge and power in one... Jei, you sneaky bastard! I just twitched down there again!

What's worse... I don't have it in me to turn him down. "And I just so happen to have started my training in Earth release. Maybe you can help me with that?" He knows? Kami-sama... he knows!? Him knowing things he shouldn't just used to give me a warm, fuzzy feeling... the feeling he's giving me is still warm and fuzzy... but it's a lot more to the southwards than it used to be! He's not going to let this go. Ever.

I find us sharing a searing hot kiss before my mind can even catch up to my actions. Of all the turn-ons in this Kami-forsaken world... I had to end up with this one?

8-8

End Chapter 9

8-8


A/N: Updated October 12th, 2015.