Heart's Treasure
Chapter 14: Loyalty
Sorry this chapter took a bit longer. I had a bit of writer's block and had a lot of wrapping to do. Please leave a review telling me what you think. Kakuzu will reveal himself soon. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday.
Perspectives: Snow and Kakuzu
Snow's Perspective
I woke early in the morning from a restless sleep. Old and painful memories haunted my dreams. I stretched. I groaned as muscles fought against the movement. They were aching. I brush off the ache and pushed myself out of bed. I walked to kitchen. Might as well make breakfast. I opened the fridge and saw it was empty. How does Mari survive? I made coffee, but I made myself a cup of tea. Mari, Hantia, and Dad came down. They each poured themselves a cup of coffee. I enjoyed the smell.
"What a cup?" asked Mari.
I shook my head. It's only a matter of time before things go to hell.
"You look like shit", said Mari.
I glared at her. I heard two sets of footsteps coming down the stairs.
"Mommy",
I smiled.
"Hey you two how are you feeling?" I asked.
"Sore", said Hazel.
I lifted the side of Hazel's shirt. The bruising darkened since last night.
"It hurts", she whimpered.
"I know sweetie", I said.
I couldn't confidently heal her in this state.
"If you want I can look them over. I am medical ninja", said Dad.
I nodded my head. Dad picked her up a laid her down on the table. He channeled his chakra into her side. Hazel started giggling.
"It tickles grandpa", said Hazel.
We both smile at Hazel's cute reaction.
"Alright Saizo your turn", I said.
I tried lifting him up, but he swatted my hands away.
"I can do it myself", said Saizo.
His voice was weak. He got up on the chair and then climbed onto the table. Saizo sat on the table waited Dad to help him. He flinched, when Dad placed his hand on his neck. Saizo started crying. I sat on table next to him pulled him close. I ran my fingers through his hair to help calm him down. After about ten minutes he calmed down enough to allow Dad to heal him.
"We should be getting home. Hantia your coming with us", I said.
She nodded her head. I need to see Kotaro and Rose. I need reassurance that all of my children are okay. I picked up Saizo and Dad picked up Hazel. We rushed toward my house. I opened the door and saw Kotori pacing nervously back and forth. He went at ease, when he saw the twins and me were safe and sound. I went into each of the nurseries making sure each of my babies were okay. They both looked perfectly happy and healthy. Kotaro started crying. I sat in the rocking chair with Kotaro and let him nurse. I rocked back and forth in the chair humming a song to him. I took these few minutes to try and relax before I went to see Eiji. I placed Kotaro in his crib.
"Kotori, I need you to watch my children for a while longer", I said.
He nodded his head. Dad followed me out the door. The meeting with Eiji was a going to be pleasant. The residence of the guardian was hectic. People were running around preparing for the upcoming war. I walked up the stairs toward the office I shared with Eiji. The doors of the office were open. Eiji was glaring over a large map spread out on the table. Elders surrounded him. They chirped in their opinions every chance they could. Eiji looked up at me. He wasn't frowning or smiling. I couldn't read his emotions. The elders looked up at me and smiled. They hardly ever smile at me. Most of the time they frown and scold me for my actions.
"Leave us", said Eiji.
The level of seriousness in his voice left no room for questions by the elders. They filed out of the room.
"What caused you to act so stupidly? Why the hell would you release that monster?" asked Eiji.
"What I did wasn't stupid. I had the strength to follow my heart. Isn't that the strength of the diamond? Our unbending strength and loyalty to follow our hearts and protect our home. Did what I do go so much against that concept?" I asked.
Eiji gritted his teeth he couldn't argue against me especially when I mentioned the belief of the village.
"That doesn't explain why you released that monster. You didn't even take this family into consideration", said Eiji.
My hands fisted.
"How dare you?! I've always put my family first!" I yelled.
"You put every member of this family in danger by letting him out", growled Eiji.
"You are blinded by your own hatred. He's done nothing to harm my children or me. I know he won't be able to", I said.
"Besides he will be a great advantage in the battle", said Mari.
She was sitting in the window ceil.
"Mari this doesn't concern you leave", said Eiji.
"Yes, it fucking does. I'm part of this village and part of this fucked up clan", said Mari.
"Stay Mari. I want to hear your opinion ", I said.
Eiji set a glare in my direction and returned to it. I'm in no mood for him.
"Continue your thought", I said to Mari.
"The legends surrounding him will be enough to scare most of them away", said Mari.
"I can't deny that's true. Manzo's presence might be a useful benefit as much as I hate admitting it. I just have to figure out what to do with him until the time comes, when the village might need him", said Eiji.
"What do you want to do him? He's been punished long enough Eiji. Please give him a second chance", I said.
I could see the gears in his turning as he tried figuring out what to do.
"I'll put him where he belongs", said Eiji.
Dad's eyes widened. The fear was apparent. He looked like he was on the verge of a panic attack.
"With his family", said Eiji.
"It can't be that easy. What do you want in return?" asked Dad.
"Only two things. I want you to fight. Two I want a blood oath", said Eiji.
A blood oath was a forbidden jutsu. It's considered cruel, since took a person's free will. It was a blood contract between two or three people. The contract was a double-edged blade. If either signer did anything to harm or betray the village it would kill them in the most painful possible. Their suffering would go on for days before it finally killed them. The other who signed the contract would be haunted by nightmare of the other's death as warning of what would happen if they did anything to harm the village. Sometimes the nightmares were, so powerful they caused insanity.
"What use would a blood oath with me do for you? If I were to do something to betray the village the oath won't kill me it would only put me in state of constant pain, which is nothing new to me" asked Dad.
"Did I say it would be with me? If Snow is so willing to stand up for you she won't mind making an oath with you", said Eiji.
"Fine", I said.
"You don't have to do this", said Dad.
"I know you won't betray my trust", I said.
"What are you going to do with Hantia?" asked Mari.
This was the first time Eiji had take notice of her.
"Who are you Hantia?" asked Eiji.
"I'm the daughter of Orochimaru and Snow", she said.
"You're the embodied of the curse mark. Why should I allow you to stay within this village?" asked Eiji.
"You need powerful shinobi on your side. I'm forever in debt to my mother for truly freeing and giving me a chance to live a life of my own. That's a chance my father never gave me. I will do nothing to harm her or this village", said Hantia.
"Are you willing avouch for her also Snow?" asked Eiji.
"Yes", I said.
"Then she will join in the blood oath", said Eiji.
Eiji went to the shelf behind him and pulled out a large scroll of paper. He spread the paper out along the center table. The paper wasn't ordinary. Just by the look of it I knew the paper was highly susceptive to chakra. It was normally used for discovering a person's chakra nature.
"Each of you must sign your name at an edge of the paper in blood", said Eiji.
I bit my finger and wrote my name in blood. The others did the same. Eiji handed me a diamond kunai. He instructed us to cut our palms.
"Hold your hands above the paper and let it drip onto the center of the page", said Eiji.
We let our blood drip onto the center of the page. It formed a small puddle on the paper.
"Now each of you channel your chakra into it", said Eiji.
The paper stiffened with chakra. The puddle of blood at the center of the page reached out and touched each of our names. At the center a large triquetra started forming. I groaned as I felt something being carved into my chest. When I moved down the collar of my shirt triquetra was carved right above my heart. The same symbol was above the Hantia and Dad's heart.
"Satisfied Eiji?" I asked.
He nodded his head.
"Where will your eldest daughter be staying?" asked Eiji.
"She can stay with me. I have a spare room", said Mari.
"Is that okay with you?" I asked Hantia.
I probably didn't even have to ask. Both of them looked happy with the idea. They will be good for each other.
"Yes",
"Do you need me here Eiji?" I asked.
He shook his head. I went to my house. Dad followed me back home. He settled into small guesthouse.
"Is everything alright Minori?" asked Kotori.
"Yes", I said.
"You're bleeding", said Kotori
"It's nothing you can go home. Blossom is probably worried sick about you", I said.
"Are you sure?" asked Kotori.
"Yes now go", I said.
I went into the bathroom and cleaned the cut on my chest. I tried healing it with chakra, but it refused to hear. I pulled a large bandage out of the medicine cabinet. I sighed, when I saw the only bandage left was pink and had Hello Kitty on it. I sat down at table.
"You don't look alright", said Dad.
"Tired", I said.
"Sleep, I'll make sure nothing happens", said Dad.
"Thanks", I said.
Before I could get up from my chair. Hazel screamed on the top of her lungs. We ran into her room.
"Mommy",
Kotaro and Rose started crying.
"I'll take care of those two", said Dad.
"What's wrong honey?" I asked.
"Bad dream", said Hazel.
"It was only a dream", I said.
"What if someone takes me away again?" asked Hazel.
"I promise no will take me from you again. If they somehow do I will hunt them down and kill them", I said.
Her brother was awake now too.
"Can we go to uncle's house?" asked Hazel.
"Ya can we?" asked Saizo.
I nodded my head. That will give them and me a good distraction.
"Is grandpa coming?" asked Hazel.
"No, I have to visit someone", said Dad.
My best guess was he was going to visit mom in the graveyard.
"See you later. Make sure you're back by five", I said.
"Why five?" asked Dad.
"Dinner",
A warm smile appeared on his face. I know that feeling. Something as simple as dinner with family can mean, so much especially to a person who never thought it would be possible.
"Grandpa, make sure you come back. Today is breakfast for dinner", said Hazel.
He seemed to enjoy his new titles of dad and grandpa.
"If you see Goemon invite him to dinner", I said.
He nodded his head.
Kakuzu's Perspective
I was wired and couldn't focus on my work. That massive storm of chakra last night was unsettling. I've only felt it once before, but it was much more controlled this time. Snow has to have a good reason for entering sage mode. She tried avoiding it. My mind went back to the day I first saw her training in it.
Kakuzu's Flashback
I felt Snow stirring in bed. I slowly sat up and rubbed the sleep from my eyes. It was five in the morning. What could she possibly be doing at this time?
"Go back to sleep Kuzu", she said before she kissed me on the cheek.
"Where are you going?" I asked.
"Training you know I like to get an early start", said Snow.
I shut my eyes. From my room I heard the door of the hideout slide open. Only an hour later I was disturbed from sleep by a powerful chakra. Snow what are you doing? The hideout was almost empty except for Pain. I dressed and ran out the hideout. I stopped, when I saw her in the training field. There were purple markings around her eyes. Her chakra changed. It had a deadly intent to it. This wasn't natural for her. She looks all right. Her eye rolled back in her head and she fainted.
"Snow",
I gently patted her on the cheek.
"Wake up", I said.
She gave no signs of waking up. I picked her up and carried her back to the hideout. I carefully tucked her into our bed. I sat at my desk and waited for her to wake.
"You worry too much Kuzu", said Snow thirty minutes later.
"Then don't give me so much reason to worry", I said.
She groaned loudly as she sat up. Her muscles were flinching as her body tried regaining control of them.
"You shouldn't have gone into that form. It takes too hard an impact on your body", I said.
"That's exactly why I have to do it. I have to make sure my body adjusts to the power of sage mode without the assistance of the course mark", said Snow.
"I rather you not", I said.
"There's a lot things you rather not have me do. That doesn't mean I'm going to listen. Some day their might be an opponent where have to use that form. I want to be able to control it", said Snow.
"I doubt there will be a day where you have to use it", I said.
"Why do you hate the idea of me using it? Is it because of where and who I learned it from or because you don't like the effect it has on my body", asked Snow.
"That's part of the reason and the idea of you having to use it means you're in great level of danger", I said.
"I'm strong Kakuzu. I'm not the weak girl you found laying in puddle of blood", said Snow.
"But you're my wife and I will always want to protect you", I said.
"I know that's part of the reason why I love you", said Snow.
I scowled, when someone nudged me out of the memory. It was Manzo. Something seemed different from before. He had a more dangerous feel to him. Bishop my normally brave mutt had his tail between his legs and was cowering behind me.
"I'm sorry if I disturbed you from a pleasant memory. I know how bothersome that can be", said Manzo.
"What do you want?" I asked.
"I'm here to talk to you. I know you must be curious about what you felt last night. Let's continue this conversation somewhere more private", said Manzo.
He followed me into the tomb.
"First let me start off with your children are safe", said Manzo.
"Why wouldn't they be safe?" I asked.
"They were kidnapped, but Snow successfully rescued them", said Manzo.
"That explains the chakra. Was there really an opponent that would pose that much of a challenge for her", I said.
"She didn't even have to use that power. Snow was only showing off as warning to them never to go near children again", said Manzo.
The way he said that made it sound like nothing.
"That explains the two graves I have to dig", I said.
"Yes", said Manzo.
"Who are you Manzo? I want a real answer", I said.
"I'm Snow's father", said Manzo.
"That's not possible her father is long since dead", I said.
"Jun wished he fathered a child that powerful", said Manzo.
"Prove it", I said.
There was a crinkling sound as he pulled something from his pocket. It was a paternity test. Snow has 23 chromosomes in common with Snow. There's no doubting he's her father.
"You don't seem shocked", said Manzo.
"After all the things I've discovered about this family nothing shocks me anymore. I'm only happy my children are safe", I said.
"You have to tell her", said Manzo.
"I can't. Even if I could how would I explain it to her", I said.
He shrugged his shoulders.
"The only advice I can give you is this you need your family", said Manzo.
"I'm under orders to stay concealed", I said.
"I wouldn't think of you as person to give into order of some teenage brat. You can a least hint at it", said Manzo.
"I can't risk it. It puts my family at risk. There guard is unprepared for the enemies who want to harm her", I said.
"That will change. I won't be leaving my daughter's side any time soon. One day soon she will even surpass me", said Manzo.
"I thought you abilities were sealed", I said.
"Unsealed now thanks to my little kitten", said Manzo.
"But even hinting at who I am might cause her mental distress I don't want to harm her", I said.
"Do you think she's better off thinking you are dead? She's stronger than you think", asked Manzo.
"I know she's powerful", I said.
"Yes, you see her as physically powerful, but you question her mental strength which is understandable", said Manzo.
"You don't know her like I do. You haven't seen her at her worst", I said.
He nodded his head.
"How is she?" I asked.
"Tired and needs someone to make her smile. Eiji has lost that ability for the moment", said Manzo.
I couldn't help smiling.
"They've hit a rough patch?" I asked.
"More that they've a rough situation that would be taxing the most loving of couples", said Manzo.
I sighed, but she's still bound to him.
"Snow promised him she would marry and have his children if anything were to happen to me. She won't break that promise easily", I said.
"Unless her missing bounty hunter husband returns suddenly out of the blue. It would be a miracle", said Manzo.
"I wish I could walk through the doors of her house and take back my place in my family, but it isn't that easy `", I said.
"You shouldn't be wishing you should be trying. Nothing will happen unless you don't try", said Manzo.
I pinched the bridge of nose and tried to force my mind to think clearly.
"Goemon the grounds keeper is nice role, but isn't husband to your wife and father to your children better", said Manzo.
"I'll see you at five", I said.
"Are you at least going to think about it?" asked Manzo.
"Maybe", I said.
"Her heart belongs to you", said Manzo.
"Will you leave already? Like you said I have a lot to think about", I said.
He smirked and then left. I don't like that smirk. He's right. Manzo with protecting them it should be safe for me to at least hint at my identity. It's been so long since I've last been myself. I laid in my cot staring at the sealing until four fifty and then started my making my way to Snow's house.
Snow's Perspective
"You're going to burn the pancake if you keeping staring off like that", said Dad.
I quickly flipped the pancake.
"Do you want me to take over?" he asked.
I nodded my head and took his place at the counter.
"What has your mind so clouded?" asked Dad.
"The stress helping run a village. I have a massive load of paperwork to get through before I can even think about sleeping", I said.
"I never envied my brother, when it came to his job. I don't know why anyone would willingly want to rule over a village. Especially as one as trouble the Hidden Diamond", said Dad.
I sighed.
"That's not the only thing bothering you?" asked Dad.
"Marriage problems are putting just as much strain on me as other things. That must sound stupid", I said.
"What marriage problems could you possibly have? You're single", said Dad.
I gave a bitter laugh.
"I never divorced from Eiji. So yes I can have those problems", I said.
"You should be able to marry who you want. Why haven't you divorced him?" Dad.
"I made a promise and I don't have the heart to. I made a promise I don't take those lightly. Eiji has always been good to me", I said.
"I can't deny that he's been good to you. I'm glad he was the one who found and not Hiro. He wouldn't have been so gentle", said Manzo.
There was a knock on the door. That must be Goemon. I left the counter and went to answer the door. I smiled when I saw him. His dog Bishop was standing by his side.
"Hope you don't mind that I brought the mutt", said Goemon.
"I don't mind please come in", I said.
Goemon followed me into the kitchen. There was another knock on the door. I was expecting anyone else. I went to answer it again. It was Mari and Hantia.
"Hope you don't mind us stopping by. My fridge is empty", said Mari.
"You know my house isn't grocery store", I said.
"Yes, I know that are you going to let us in?" asked Mari.
I nodded my head and let them in. I couldn't help smiling. The feeling of having a full house put me at ease. Dad went into the living room to watch of the younger children. Hantia and Mari were busy talking to each other in the dinning room. Goemon was staring at Hantia. It wasn't a look of attraction. He more trying to figure her out.
"Goemon"
"Yes"
"If you're interested in her you can talk to her", I said.
I couldn't help laughing at the expression on his face.
"She's not my type", said Goemon.
"That's not what I meant. You be looking at her differently if you were attracted to here. But what is your type?" I asked.
"I prefer more petite women", said Goemon.
"She's only two inches taller than me. So you prefer someone my size or shorter", I said.
He nodded his head.
"I also I have love of blue eyes", said Goemon.
"Why blue?" I asked.
"My wife had blue eyes", said Goemon.
He took another glance at Hantia.
"Who is she I've never seen her before?" asked Goemon.
"She just got out of the anbu. That's why her face is new to you", I said.
He nodded and then smirked.
"I didn't take you as a Hello Kitty person", said Goemon.
"What?"
He pointed to my chest.
"First thing I grabbed", I said.
I finally finished cooking. I turned off the stove.
"You have flour on your face", said Goemon.
I wiped my cheek. He smiled.
"You missed it let me", said Goemon.
He took the cloth from my hand. Then he lifted my chin with his fingertips making me look into his neon green eyes. Those eyes looked at me in such a loving way. Has he always looked at me that way? No, I must just be imagining it. I felt my face going pink under his intense gaze.
"Mommy your face is all red", said Hazel.
My face went a shade darker.
"Thank you", I said.
"No thanks needed", said Goemon.
Is he normally this flirtatious? Maybe I've been blind to it since my focus has been focused on Eiji. I couldn't help being flattered. Most men in the village know better and than one who do aren't men of my interest. But Goemon is far from unattractive. I placed dinner on the table. Eventually twins and babies grew tired and went to bed. I struggled to get a bottle of wine from the top shelf.
Kakuzu's Perspective
I reached up from behind and grabbed the bottle of wine she was reaching for.
"Thanks",
Her face was a beautiful shade of pink. I've been avoiding making contact this, because it put her and our family at potential risk. With Manzo serving as guard dog Kabuto should be scared. Its safe with me to be like this.
"Why do you keep it up so high?" I asked.
"I say it's to keep it away from the kids, but really just a way to keep the temptation away", said Snow.
"Do you need me to get anything else?" I asked.
She shook her head and we walked to the living room where the others were sitting. Everyone except for Snow filled their glass.
"Do you think your daughter will follow taste?" asked Mari to Snow.
She looked completely clueless on how to answer Mari and so was I. Snow and Hazel are so alike in their tastes.
"What do you mean my taste?" asked Snow.
"Your taste in men. It seems to be passed down from mother to daughter", said Mari.
I stopped myself from glare. If I had my way Hazel would never have boyfriend. No one is good enough for my little girl. Snow still looked confused.
"Your love of silver foxes. Your mother fell in love with a man two hundred plus years older than her. How much older was your first love than you?" asked Mari.
I couldn't help finding the title of silver fox was a small bit insulting, but otherwise it was compliment. At least I'm not some cradle-robbing pervert like Jiraiya.
"Ten years, but he was only twenty eight I hardly call that a silver fox", said Snow.
"Isn't that a bit young? You were only eighteen", I said.
"I was young in love and he was a perfect chance for happy ending. All I saw was someone who loved me. I have no idea what taste my daughter will have men. I never really thought about the whole boyfriend thing for her", said Snow.
"Because she's so young?" I asked.
"No, because her father was so protective over her. That he would scare away any boy that tried to get near her", said Snow.
"What about Eiji? He has silver hair", said Mari.
"I don't want to talk about him right now!" growled Snow.
"Is it really that rough?" asked Mari.
"Leave it Mari", said Snow.
"I'm only worried about you. Did you ever hit rough patch with him?" asked Mari.
"I can only think of one event that could have made a massive change in my life if I approached it in a different way", said Snow.
If she accepted having a life with Tatsuo both of our lives would be so different. The twins would never have been born. I would be in a depression and would still have the same fate of death. The only difference would be less people would care.
"What was that?" asked the strange woman.
"It doesn't matter it was a long time ago", said Snow.
I sighed that fight does seem like a lifetime ago. Manzo, Mari, and the strange woman with white hair left leaving me alone with Snow.
"What was your wife like?" asked Snow.
I smiled.
"The most beautiful woman in the world inside out. No matter how many times I told her that she never believed me",
"What was your husband like? You spend so much time visiting him, yet I don't know anything about him. I know it isn't any of my business", I said.
"I don't mind it's nice to talk about him for me. He was tall dark and very handsome. He was like a giant teddy bear", said Snow.
"Teddy bear?" I asked.
How am I a teddy bear?
"He was big and strong, but he was cuddly like a teddy bear. But my husband also had a vicious protective side", said Snow.
I with held back a smile. It was an accurate description of what I was like.
"How about your kids?" asked Snow.
"I have two", I said.
"Boys or girls?" asked Snow.
"One of each they're grown up. I have no idea how I can you handle four alone", I said.
"I'm not alone. I have sisters and a can already tell their grandpa is going to be a big help in raising them", said Snow.
Snow took the bottle of wine from the table and tried putting back on the shelf. I came up behind her and took it from her hand put back in its place on the shelf.
"How did you even get up here in the first place?" I asked.
"I honestly don't remember", said Snow.
She turned around to face me. We were only inches apart, but she made no move to escape this closeness. She smiled when she saw my necklace. I actually consider it more of a collar that shows that bastard Kabuto has control over me.
"That necklace works", said Snow.
"What does it do?" I asked.
"It reunites lost loves. I used to have one like it. What love one are you hoping to find again?" asked Snow.
The one standing right in front of me.
"Its only a trinket my wife gave to me. I can't force myself to get rid of the ugly thing", I said.
She yawned. I glanced at the clock on the wall. It wasn't that late be her body is still recovering. I moved away to let her through.
"Goodnight Minori", I said.
"Goodnight", she said.
She followed me to the doorway. Before I could leave she grabbed my hand. Snow kissed me on the cheek.
Snow's Perspective
I felt my face go hot. He was looking at me in a different way. Goemon leaned closer to me. I know what he's going to do, but I have no want to stop him. His lip met mine. His lips were gently. I wrapped my arms around his neck. His tongue slowly traced my bottom lip. I opened my mouth a bit and his tongue pushed into my mouth. No, no! I can't be doing this I'm married to Eiji. I put my hands against his chest and gave a gentle push. Goemon instantly pulled away.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to take advantage", said Goemon.
"You didn't, but you have to understand we can't go any further than this. I'm married. I won't let his affect our friendship. I hope you will do the same I would hate to lose it", I said.
"I won't", said Goemon.
He left quietly. As soon as shut the door I slid to the floor. I touched my lips. I've felt that kiss before. I know that kiss. It belonged to Kakuzu. What does this mean? Why can't I have a simple love life? Is that even possible for me? What's wrong with me? I walked into my bedroom and tensed, when I felt a presence in my room. A diamond kunai appeared in my hand. When the intruder step forward, I grabbed them by the neck and slammed them against the wall.
"Easy Snow",
I moved my hand away from her neck.
"Why are you her Konan? Do you know how much danger you're putting both yourself and my family in by here?" I asked.
"This was the reaction I was hoping for", said Konan.
"I'm sorry", I said as I hugged her.
"It's alright. Can I see her?" asked Konan.
I nodded my head. She followed me into Rose's bedroom. She was sleeping peacefully in her crib.
"Can I hold her?" asked Konan.
I nodded my head. She carefully picked up Rose. Konan sat down in the rocking chair.
"She's beautiful", said Konan.
"Yes, she is just like her mother. Are you here to take her back?" I asked.
It's a painful question for me, but my pain is nothing compared the suffering Konan must be going through.
"No",
Tears were streaming down her face. I made no mention of it. I waited until I thought she was ready to talk.
"Why are you here Konan?" I asked.
"To see Rose and to check up on you Snow", said Konan.
"Does Leader know you're here?" I asked.
"No, but he's probably figured it out", said Konan.
I leaned against the wall.
"Who was the man you were kissing?" asked Konan.
"Goemon Fuma the grounds keeper of the graveyard", I said.
"I can see why you like him. He resembles Kakuzu", said Konan.
"How are the others?" I asked.
"We are dwindling, but we must move forward", said Konan.
"You know you can tell me anything Konan. Nothing you tell me will ever leave this room", I said.
"I know. I'm trying to figure out where to start. It feels like you left years ago instead of months ago", said Konan.
I nodded my head. We talk for hours. The whole time we talked Konan held Rose in her arms. She sighed loudly, when she finished informing me about the Akatsuki's latest business. Konan placed Rose back in her crib.
"I should go", said Konan.
I took a heavy yellow envelope from the shelf in Rose's room.
"Take these with you", I said.
She took the envelope from my hand. Konan opened it and smiled, when she saw a photo of Rose.
"I can't take these", said Konan.
"They are spares. I've been saving them for you", I said.
"Thank you", said Konan before she gave me hug goodbye.
I walked out of the nursery and glared at the large amount paperwork on the counter. I sat down and started working. Sometime during the early morning I must have fallen asleep. I was tucked into my bed. How did I get here? I smelled breakfast from my room. When I walked into kitchen I saw Dad had made breakfast. I smiled at him. I sat with the twins. Both Kotaro and Rose were happily crawling around in their playpen.
"How are you feeling?" asked Dad.
"Tired last night was long. Did you move me?" I asked.
He nodded his head.
"I changed and feed them. And burped Kotaro", said Dad.
"Impressive thank you", I said.
"I will be happy to watch them while you catch up on your work and sleep", said Dad.
I hugged him tightly.
"It's no trouble kitten. I love have something to do", said Dad.
I returned to my bed and quickly fell asleep and I somehow I managed to get most of my work done. I should go check on Eiji. When I opened the door to my room I saw Dad playing with Saizo and Hazel. I snuck out while he wasn't paying attention. I walked to his office. This was one of the rare times when he was alone. I knocked on the door.
"Come in", he said.
I entered his office.
"Are you still upset with me?" I asked.
"No, I'm stressed. I'm sorry that was cruel to you Snow", said Eiji.
"Eiji you haven't been cruel to me", I said.
He gave a loud yawn.
"You need to rest", I said.
"I don't have time to", said Eiji.
"Well you will have to make time to. You'll be useless to everyone if you're too tired to function", I said.
I took his hand and led him to his bedroom. I got into bed with him. I started working through his paperwork. It wasn't anything too difficult, but it was time consuming. A few hours later Eiji started waking.
"How long have I been out?" asked Eiji as he sat up.
"A few hours. You didn't miss anything important", I said.
"Snow you shouldn't have let me sleep so long", said Eiji.
"Tell me what you're so stressed about. Is the meeting with the kages", I said.
"Yes"
"I thought it would be canceled when we are at such a risk of war ourselves", I said.
"Hiro would be a fool to attack, when some of the most powerful ninjas in the world are in our village. You have to attend we have to agree to follow them into war with the Akatsuki. I will leave the choice to you. We both have to agree to go to war. If you decide not to go against your adoptive family I understand. The choice is up to you", said Eiji.
I sighed. I don't want to think about this.
"I'm going to take Kotori from your personal guard", said Eiji.
"Why?" I asked.
"You have to perfect guard in your father. I don't see why you would need Kotori in your service", said Eiji.
"What will you have him do instead?" I asked.
"He will take the role of my advisor. My previous advisor finally decided to retire at the most inconvenient time", said Eiji.
"Does he know?" I asked.
"Yes, he does. He seems happy with his new job", said Eiji.
"I think that might have be his dream job", I said.
"You'll have to find your own advisor", said Eiji.
I left. I stopped at the large gates of the academy. The academy is a large white building with white marble pillars supported it. The windows were silvered framed. I walked down the halls until I reached the classroom I was searching for. As I walked into her room her attention rose from her papers.
"Sister, what do I owe this visit to?" asked Kameko.
I sat down on her desk.
"I want you to be my advisor. Its your choice I won't force the title on you", I said.
"There has to be someone better for the title. Maybe one of the elders", said Kameko.
"You know the elders aren't my biggest fans", I said.
"I would say differently. They all know that large explosion of chakra came from you. Now they don't consider you a figure head that's only go for the people and tourism profit", said Kameko.
"Is that a no?" I asked.
"It isn't a no. I'm only saying there are better people for the job than me", said Kameko.
"You are the best person in my book. Kameko you're my older sister and I trust you with my life and my children. I wouldn't want any other person to be my advisor", I said.
She smiled.
"Yes, I will be your advisor", said Kameko.
"Are you sure you want this job? It means you'll have to quit your job as teacher", I said.
"But it also means I will be able to spend more time with my family", said Kameko.
"If you ever grow tired of the job you are to leave it whenever you want. I will need your help with the meeting", I said.
"Of course. I will inform you about the other kages later tonight. Around eight thirty", said Kameko.
"That sounds good. Thank you Kameko", I said.
I needed time to think. I returned to my house. I have no idea what tomorrow would be like. Dad was sitting in a wooden lawn chair. He watched Saizo and Hazel running a long the playground with their cousin Hana. Rose was toddling around in the grass near her grandpa. Kotaro was happily nestled in his arms. I took the seat next to him.
"How was your time with Eiji?" asked Dad.
"He seems to have cooled down from yesterday", I said.
"Eiji must be under immense amount of pressure. He has to consider his actions more carefully. If he choses wrong he might harm the one he loves", said Dad.
"He can't put me in front of the village. It will only end up harming more people including my family. I have to put my biological family first. My ties with adoptive family had to be cut off. It only hurt them and my children", I said.
"Then what was last night?" asked Dad.
"How did you know about last night?" I asked.
"Nightmares keep me up and even if I do sleep its light. An unfamiliar chakra is enough to wake me", said Dad.
"When was your last peaceful sleep?" I asked.
"A little less than twenty nine years ago. Sleeping with wife and unborn child safely held in my embrace. I bet he hasn't had a truly peaceful since his loss", said Dad.
He must be talking about Eiji. Who else could he be talking about?
"Do you know your new position?" I asked.
"I don't consider it a new position. I've tried to be your guard since you were born. This is the firs time I've gotten a chance to be capable of doing it", said Dad.
"How old is the grudge between the land of earth and the land of wealth?" I asked.
"Very old. My grandparents were the first ones affected by the land of earth's hostility. Why do you want to know?" asked Dad.
"I wanted to know how much hostility I will face from the Tsuchikage", I said.
"There's bound to be a small physical altercation between Eiji and the Tsuchikage. There's always one. You'll do fine kitten", said Dad.
Once the twins were put in bed there was a knock on the door.
"Come in", I said.
Kameko walked in with a stack of files in her arms. She placed them on the table and took a seat. I sat down next to her
"Where do you want to start?" asked Kameko.
"The Leaf", I said.
"How much do you know of Lady Tsunade?" asked Kameko.
"The basics. She one of the famous Sannin. Tsunade is also one of the most powerful medical ninjas across the lands. Her apprentice is Sakura Haruno", I said.
"You don't need much informing on her then", said Kameko.
"I don't know who her advisor is", I said.
"Well she doesn't really have one. She has an assistant", said Kameko.
"Is there anything I need to know about her", I said.
"Her name is Shizune. She's a skill medical ninja", said Kameko.
"That isn't odd considering who her teacher is. Anything else I should know about her?" I asked.
"Shizune is the niece of Lady's Tsunade's lover", said Kameko.
"She lost her true love too", I said.
"I'm not sure if Dan was her true love or not. The data we have on that time didn't focus on romance", said Kameko.
"He had to be her true love. She's a beautiful a woman, Tsunade. If he weren't she would have been able to move on from him. Whose next?" I asked
She handed me a file. I opened it. The photo in the file was of fair skinned woman, with long auburn hair, and stunning green eyes.
"Who's this?" I asked.
I wasn't in mood for reading. It's easier to listen to her.
"Mei Terumi is the fifth Mizukage. You should know this Snow you are one of the two guardians", said Kameko.
"I know my title you don't have to remind me of it", I said.
"You look older Snow", said Kameko.
"I stopped aging how can I look older?" I asked.
"Let me rephrase. You've grown more mature in a short amount of time. I can see it in your eyes. They hold wisdom beyond their years", said Kameko.
"Is there anything I should be concerned with it comes to Mei?" I asked.
"She might be a little jealous of you. So don't take any perceived rudeness personally", said Kameko.
"What did I do to earn her jealousy?" I asked.
"How can you not remember?" asked Kameko.
She got up and took a magazine from the holder near the door. Kameko placed it in front of me. On its cover was a photo of me. My faced turned pink. I saw the two smaller photos on the cover were of Tsunade who earned second and Mei who earned third.
"She's angry over a such a petty thing", I said as I turned over the magazine.
"And this just came out", said Kameko as she placed another magazine in front of me.
On it was Eiji. He was only wearing a towel wrapped lowly around his waist. Water dripped down his muscular body. His long silver hair was down and his mismatched eyes seemed to sparkle. Eiji was smiling right into the camera. The heading read:
Hottest Male Celebrities
"Did he pose for this?" I asked.
"No, some of the press snuck into the hot springs and took the photo. Unlike you he humors the wants of the press. Knowing that if he does they will leave him alone", said Kameko.
"Why would this make Mei jealous?" I asked.
"You married to one of the best looking the men in the lands. Many women are jealous of you", said Kameko.
"I'm guessing the topic of love is to be avoided when talking with her", I said.
"She becomes extremely irrational when her age and her single status is mention", said Kameko.
"How irrational?" I asked.
"Enough to attack without a second thought", said Kameko.
"Who are her guard and advisor?" I asked.
"Her advisor is Ao. He's an interesting man and especially deadly", said Kameko.
"Why?" I asked.
"He's a holder of the Byakugan", said Kameko.
"I thought that bloodline only existed in the Hyuga clan of the leaf. How did he obtain one?" I asked.
"You knew that, yet you didn't know who Mei Terumi is", said Kameko.
"I know great deal of the Leaf for multiple reasons. My brother was one of their most powerful shinobi. He told me of his village", I said.
Kameko attention went to one of the files in front of her. She always becomes somewhat uncomfortable when I talk about my other family.
"How did Ao get the Byakugan? The Hyuga clan is very protective of their eyes", I said.
"He stole it from an unknown member of the clan during the Fourth Shinobi War. He's also a hunter-nin", said Kameko.
"He would love to get his hands on Kisa", I said.
"Why would he want your daughter's toy shark?" asked Kameko.
"I wasn't talking about my daughter's toy", I said.
"You mean the freakish looking shark man", said Kameko.
"He's not a freak!" I growled.
"Calm down there's no reason to get upset. You can't react that way during the meeting", said Kameko.
"Sorry Kameko. Kisa was a friend it's difficult for me not to defend him", I said.
"I know how much they mean to you Snow. But you have to let them go. You left the Akatsuki and now you are a supporting pillar of this village. You can't go switching back and forth between sides. Now that you are here your side lays with the Hidden Diamond", said Kameko.
"I know", I said.
I took a deep breath.
"What of her guard?" I asked.
"Ah his name is Chojuro. Looks a little young for his age", said Kameko.
She showed me his photo. He did look much younger than nineteen.
"Is their anything special about him?" I asked.
"He's one of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist", said Kameko.
"Impressive, what sword does he weld?" I asked.
"Hiramekarei", said Kameko.
"Do we have anything more of the Hidden Mist?" I asked.
"We don't have much information on them compared to other villages since they are so far away. Who do you want to know about next?" asked Kameko.
"You pick", I said.
"Do you know much of Gaara of the Sand?" asked Kameko.
"Yes, I know he once held the one tail, Shukaku. One of my friends died during Gaara's rescue. I hold no grudge. Sasori knew what he was in for", I said.
"And he's also the leader of the one of our oldest allies", said Kameko.
"Impressive at such a young age", I said.
"His advisor is his eldest sibling Temari. She's a master strategist. Her choice of weapon is a giant folding fan. I think you'll find more interest in the middle brother", said Kameko.
"Why?" I asked.
"His name is Kankuro. He's a puppeteer who uses your friend Sasori's body as one of his puppets", said Kameko.
"Good to see it didn't go to waste. What village is next?" I asked.
"The Hidden Stone Village", said Kameko.
The distaste in her voice was apparent.
"Not all people from the Hidden Stone Village are bad", I said.
"If you are talking about Deidara I beg to differ", said Kameko.
"I wasn't talking about Deidara. I was talking about his brother Leo", I said.
"A very handsome man yes. I've always wondered where he went off to. But how do you know of him?" asked Kameko.
"He became a painter. At that time I knew him as Takumi. I was going to marry him", I said.
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Kameko.
"I told you about Takumi. He hated being Leo. As a sign of respect to him I only told you about that part of his life. Me not telling you wasn't an insult or sign of distrust. I was only respecting his wishes", I said.
She seemed to understand.
"The Tsuchikage is Onoki", said Kameko.
She showed me a photo.
"How old is he?" I asked as I looked down at his photo.
"Seventy nine", said Kameko.
"Whose his advisor?" I asked.
"His granddaughter Kurotsuchi. He's been grooming her to take his place", said Kameko.
"Whose his guard?" I asked.
"Akatsuchi", said Kameko.
I yawned loudly.
"How much more time will your body need to recover?" asked Kameko.
"One more day and my body should be back to its original strength", I said.
"You should rest", said Kameko.
I nodded my head and returned to my room. A dreamless sleep came to me easily. My alarm clock woke me early in the morning. I took care of my children and right when I was about to leave Betty came.
"You shouldn't look so stressed it's only a meeting", said Dad.
I stood next to Eiji in the office. The first person to walk in was Onoki. The old man was much shorter than I thought he would be.
"So the old twit is still in power", said Eiji.
I slapped Eiji on the back of the head.
"My love what was that for?" asked Eiji.
"You know exactly what that was for. Onoki is a guest in our village you should be polite", I said.
Onoki gave me a low bow and took my hand in his and placed a sloppy kiss on it. I pulled my hand away.
"It's very nice to finally Lady Minori as for you impolite husband I can't say the same", said Onoki.
"Who are your friends?" I asked.
"This is my lovely granddaughter Kurotsuchi and her partner Akatsuchi", said Onoki.
"It's nice to meet you Lady Minori", they both said.
"It's nice to meet you too. I hope you enjoy your brief stay in the Hidden Diamond", I said.
"May I ask who your friends are?" said Kurotsuchi.
"I'm Manzo Lady Minori's father", said Dad.
Onoki's eyes went wide.
"I thought it was a myth. You're the original immortal of your bloodline", said Onoki.
Dad nodded his head.
"What made you bring him out of his prison?" asked Onoki.
"I thought he might be useful in up coming events", said Eiji.
"He killed hundred of my people!" yelled Onoki.
"Yes, I did. I was only a child then forced by father to carry out his war. It wasn't anything personal", said Dad.
Onoki grumbled something under his breath. Eventually the conversation started up again.
"Who are you?" asked Akatsuchi as pointed one of his pudgy fingers at Kameko.
"I'm Kameko. I'm a distant relative of Lady Minori, but we are like sisters to each other prefer to be considered as such", said Kameko.
Onoki took his seat at the table. His two companions stood next to his chair. The next people to arrive were Lady Tsunade, Sakura, and Shizune.
"It's a pleasure to see you again Tsunade. I took care of that little problem of yours", said Eiji.
She frowned.
"One day I will have to pull in you gambling debt", said Eiji with a smile.
For some reason seeing the Hokage of the Hidden Leaf annoyed was satisfying to me. Tsunade took her seat. After Mei Terumi and men arrived. She glared at me.
"So you are the woman who knocked me off the cover page", said Mei Terumi.
"I'm sorry for that. You have a much better body than me. You would have looked much better on the cover", I said.
A small smile appeared on her face. An even bigger one appeared, when Eiji placed a kiss on her hand.
"It's wonderful to have the beautiful Lady of the Mist in my village", said Eiji.
A deep blush appeared on her cheeks.
"Who are your guards?" asked Eiji.
"How rude me not to introduce them sooner. Their names are Ao and Chojuro", said Mei.
"It's nice to meet you two", I said.
They nodded their heads and stood behind their Mizukage. The next to arrive was Gaara and his siblings. He didn't say much, but he bowed and took his place at the table. I didn't take it as an offense I just wanted to get this over with. The next person to walk in was a tall dark man. He had blonde hair and dark eyes. There were large brass bracelets around his wrists.
"A it is nice to finally see you in my land", said Eiji.
Eiji stuck out his hand and A gave it a strong shake. I reached my hand out.
"Sorry little missy I think I'll break your dainty little hand", said A.
I hate it when people underestimated me. I took his hand and gave it an overly firm shake. I saw A give a small flitch.
"I'm far from dainty A. It will serve you well to remember that", I said.
I settled in my seat next to Eiji. The conversation seemed to go on for hours. But eventually the question I was dreading came. Each of the kages agreed on helping.
"Eiji we all know you're in a difficult position with a potential civil war. But even finical help will be welcomed", said Tsunade.
"I will lend finical aid and shinobi, but you must ask the same of my wife. I can't move forward without her approval", said Eiji.
"Lady Minori do we have your approval?" asked Tsunade.