Empty

by Narurific

He thought it was over. He thought there was nothing left. Until he met her. That majestic hair. Those lively eyes. That bright smile. That heartfelt personality. He was a perfect, empty shell, now he was a fully imperfect being. Only question was: for how long? FemNaruto, FemSasuke. Rated T for violence and language. Warning: Character Development.

14. When Two Becomes One

Chapter 14

When Two Becomes One

-Empty-

"Kennii-sensei!"

That cute voice sent a pleasant shiver in the boy's heart, his red eyes making contact with the pitch blackness of his student.

"Hey there, S-Saku-chan." He gave her a small wave, her training transforming into a sprint toward his way.

It halted however, but her footsteps had still led her in front of him. It just didn't lead her in his arms, as she intended it to, since her eyes had darted on the presence next to him.

Naruko smiled friendly. "Hi there. My name is Uzumaki Naruko. You must be Sasuku's sister?" She noted pre-arrival that it would be respectful if she didn't use the word 'teme' around these parts, especially in front of a youngster such as the girl before her.

Sakuri stared at the blonde, a contemplative look on her face, then back at her sensei.

"Who's this, Kennii-sensei?"

Naruko's eye twitched. Did the little tyke just avoid introducing herself like she didn't exist only afterward?

"She's my t-teammate, and best friend, N-Naruko."

"Best friend?" She looked at the Genin up and down, evaluating her being.

"Yeah."

Naruko kept her smile pasted, the little girl taking a while to finish her inspection of her. "So you're the one who I was going to be taught by a few weeks ago?"

"Huh?"

"I was searching for a tutor." She crossed her arms. "I heard my sibling had been placed on the same team as the 'Rookie of the Year', so I thought they would be my best bet on efficient solidification of my skills." Then an ugly glare affected her gaze. "To think I would have ended up in the hands of someone like you."

"Excuse me?" Naruko furrowed. "What does that suppose to mean?" Sakuri didn't answer right away, instead squeezed her way in between the two and clutched tightly on her Kennii-sensei's arm.

"I'm glad I wasn't taught by a man stealer like you."

"Huh? Man stealer?" The blonde asked, both Genin confused.

"Statistics have shown that 'best friends' usually end up with romantic feelings for one another due to the highly accurate compatibility rate."

"R-Romantic feelings?" Ken stuttered with surprise, a lenient blush forming.

"You better not have the hearts for him, blondie."

"Blondie?" Naruko glared.

"Saku-chan…" Ken tried to intervene, but seemed to be at a lost of words.

"Listen here, kid," The twelve year old spoke sternly, "I really don't care if you're an Uchiha, or even Jiji-san's granddaughter, I will punch you, just like I did with Konohamaru."

"Konohama-who?"

"Ladies, p-please…"

"You think I'm arrogant enough to care about the name of my clan?" Sakuri shot back. "A name is just a name. But I advise you to not call me 'kid' again."

"Too bad. In my eyes, you're just another spoilt little kid."

Both women growled, getting up in each other's faces.

'Geez,' Ken thought awkwardly, 'Women sure look scary when they get pissed off.' "Please, y-you guys, let's not d-do something we'll regret, o-okay?"

"hmph." Naruko huffed, her arms crossed in front of her. "I suppose you're right, Kenny-kun."

"Anything for you, Kennii-sensei." Sakuri tightened her grip, her warning stare still on the upset Genin.

The boy sighed in relief, the thick atmosphere still present in the air. 'Well, it could've been a worse start. Luckily no punches were thrown. Still, we haven't even gotten inside yet. Hopefully things will go more smoother from here on out.'

-Empty-

Damn it.

She knew sleeping outside would be more occurring for the life of a ninja, especially if you're expected to go on long missions, but man, did Kibira miss her bed. You would think that a Inuzuka wouldn't mind using the ground as a mattress now and then, but if you did, then you were just stereotyping. Shame on you. Just because they were best friends with canines didn't mean they were expected to get comfy on dirt and the like. Oh well, she supposed one night wouldn't hurt though. I mean, everyone was sleeping soundly, so why shouldn't–

Wait, where was Ken?

She blinked, looking around for the green-haired boy. His being wasn't spotted. Who she did find however was Naruko, casually strolling away.

What in the… Where was she going? Kibira decisively went after her, suspicion rising in her stomach. For some reason, the Inuzuka member didn't call out to the blonde, and was instead spying on the blonde, sneaking forward as her fellow Genin made her way to who-knows-where. It might have had something to do with the strange situation back at the campsite.

Really now, why didn't Kakashi-sensei just accept the offer of cramming in the guest rooms back at the Watanabe residence? I mean, sure, it would be uncomfortable, but it certainly could've been better than the cold, night breeze tickling her freezing skin. Man, what she wouldn't give to be cozily snugged into a warm bed right about–

Oh, hold onto that thought. Ken finally was in view, his presence a considerable distance away from the others. Why was he all the way out here?

"Can't sleep?" Naruko's soft tone barely made it's way to the Kibira's ears, despite her good hearing.

"N-Naruko?" Ken's head quickly turned to the approaching female, his expression spoke of his surprise. "How did y-you find me?"

"I heard you left in this direction a while ago. Thought you wanted some fresh air or something." She sat down with him, a small clearing in front of the two. "When I noticed you didn't come back however, I decided to investigate."

"It's n-nothing." He looked forward again, their faces hidden from Kibira's vision. "I was j-just thinking about s-something."

"About what?"

"…Something…"

"Not gonna share?"

"It's s-stupid." He shook his head, the green batch of hair swaying from side to side.

"Try me."

There was a substantial pause before the boy finally spoke. "I was j-just thinking about my p-parents."

"Your parents?" Naruko questioned curiously.

"Yeah."

"Home sick?"

He chuckled, lowering his head in his lap. "Yeah."

"I don't think that's something stupid to think about." She smiled sadly. "I think… it's adorable."

"Sure…" He rolled his eyes, "thanks f-for uplifting m-my manly pride."

"You had one to begin with?"

He furrowed in her direction, before both laughed, knowing his glare was an attempt to extend the 'argument' further.

Kibira frowned, a painful tug in her chest despite finally hearing that amazing laugh of his years prior. The duo seemed… happy with each other. They spent so much time, if not, all the time together back at the Academy. She would've given up anything just to make eye contact with him aside from the stalking stares she had given him back then. Literally anything. Even disobeying her mother. But the lingering statement of the woman kept stopping her.

If you even utter a word to him again, he'll forever hate you.

Such a ridiculous thing to even say. But that strand of factuality stayed around regardless. Besides, her mother wouldn't lie to her, right? There was no reason to. Still, knowing her daughter had befriended him already was very contradictory.

Mothers knows what's best.

She sighed longingly, his hatred the last thing she wanted on her list. But keeping her distance still hurt like hell.

"How far are you anyway?" Naruko asked through Kibira's thoughts.

"With wh-what?"

"Your training with your father?"

"…" He averted from her for a reason Kibira wasn't aware of. "We're getting th-there at least."

"Good." The blonde smile warmly. "So long as my BFF is happy in the end, I'll be too."

Ken looked back in her cerulean eyes, attempting to unintentionally match her radiating smile.

Soon they left for the camp, Kibira retreating with water rapidly leaking from her orbs.

-Empty-

"Mikoto-chan, I'm b-back."

"Dead La– Idiot?" Sasuku stopped in her tracks, both of her teammates coming into view.

"So you must be Naruko-chan." Mikoto smiled, drying her 'kitchen-busy' hands with a cloth, Ken-kun, her youngest daughter, and said blonde entering the home, their shoes being taken off. "I heard a lot about you. My name is Mikoto, but there's no need for any honorifics, so you can just keep it at that."

"Konnichiwa." Naruko bowed respectfully, the woman's statement only then clicking. "Wait, you have?"

"Mmhmm." Mikoto nodded, giving Ken-kun a look. "Ken-kun wouldn't stop talking about how an amazing person you are."

A strong blush made it's way on the male. "N-N-N-No I hadn't."

"Well, I suppose that's partially true." She placed her hands on her hips, her pink apron in plain sight. "He seems more interested in gaining information than sharing. Honestly, I'm really not that special to be the center of your attention, Ken-kun."

"Y-Yes you are." Ken said, only to receive a different assortments of looks around him. "Th-Th-That Mikoto-chan's s-special, I mean."

"Gosh, deary," She surprisingly pouted, her usual beautiful maturity turning cute momentarily, "and here I thought I was actually the center of your attention. Oh well, I suppose beggars can't be choosers."

"Mom," Sasuku groaned, "stop it."

"I guess you're right, honey." She sighed. "There's just not enough room for me in Ken-kun's circle of women, I suppose."

"Mom!"

The older woman giggled melodically, "Okay, okay, I'll stop." She then turned to the stoic blonde. "But really, your reputation to the village really is incredible."

"Oh." Naruko simply replied, finally understanding where the woman's knowledge of her came from. Of course it had to come from the villagers outside. Who else could it have been?

"Don't worry, honey." She smiled reassuringly. "I'm positive the previous perceptive of you has died out. If not, I still wouldn't view you with the same."

"Really?" She asked, genuinely surprised.

"Of course." She eye-smiled. "Just because you did some pranks here and there doesn't mean you're an awful child."

Naruko didn't even know how to react to that. Her pranks never made people happy; it always did the opposite. Regardless, pranks in general was a bad thing anyway. So hearing someone other than her Kenny not poorly judging her because of that was a complete shock.

This woman… was really chill.

"So," Mikoto's voice broke the silence, "who's in the mood for some dinner?"

-Empty-

Another mission, another day. It appeared to be just that for a while now. Just the same D-Ranked routine over and over again. I mean, Naori didn't mind it; a mission is a mission, as she always said. Or was the saying 'Don't misplace the keys to the apartment'? She shrugged, it was probably both. Anywho, where was she? Oh yeah, missions. Urgh, damn missions. They were just beginning to grow on her, and not in a good way. They were mundane chores to be specific. No real experience as a ninja, just real experience for skills she probably wouldn't use in the near future.

I mean, what was gardening good for when she was intended to put her life on the line someday? Water a giant plant to eradicate her enemies? Hopefully not, because that would take too long, and it would just prove her nagging wrong.

That was one thing she didn't want to be: wrong. Or was it useless? She shrugged, it was probably both. Or maybe only the latter. She stopped for a second.

Eh, déjà vu, anyone?

Shrugging once more, she soon placed her groceries down. Monday was a bitch in general, especially when you're impatient to purchase your expenses. Tuesday was even worse! Probably Monday's cousin or somethin'. But here she was, paying for this white bag of these tiresome products on said day. Tuesday, that is. Don't blame her, Monday was daring her to shop. She wasn't going to fall for that.

She chuckled, feeling proud and triumphant over the day that starts the week. Or was that Sunday? She shrugged, it was probably both. Wait… The blunette shivered, overlooking the actual problem to her conclusion. Urgh, Sunday. The worst day of all the eight days of a week. That was it, right? Nine days in a week? Yeah, she was right.

Ten days a week it had to be.

Hah, gotcha!

She was only pulling your leg. She wasn't stupid after all, only a bit wacky on the inside, she admitted, only to bloom her craziness when she was alone.

That's right. The 'you' she was referring to was herself. Or the little voice in her head, she supposed. Were you thinking it was someone else?

Just open the damn door already.

"Okay, okay, sheesh calm down, party pooper." She waved to no one in particular, though unbeknownst to her, her nosy neighbor on the same floor was peeping at her from a distance again, the old lady fearfully apprehensive of the girl's actions.

'And I thought I was senile.' The lady thought cautiously.

Okay, scratch 'unbeknownst' off the surface; Naori suddenly twisted her head to the side, an awkwardly wide smile meeting the old woman's eyes. "Hi diddly ho, neigborino!"

Squealing in fright, the woman retreated, locking her door behind herself.

She should mind her own business.

"You can think that again." Naori said, crouching down and searching under her welcome mat.

She should mind her own business.

"Heh heh." Naori giggled cutely, pulling out her key from below. "See? You're finally seeing the joy in life."

Hardly.

"Whatever, Ms. Frowny face." She placed the key in the keyhole. "I only wanted that nosy neighbor of ours to beat it so she wouldn't know where the hiding spot of our key is."

Yeah, cause no one would look under the welcome mat. It's too advanced.

"Whatever, Ms. Frowny face."

You already said that.

"And you already demonstrated your negativity."

Touché.

"Thank you." Naori gave a little bow, though it lurked unknowingly amongst her crouch for her bag as the door was pushed open. "Ah." She flopped on the couch, the bag on one side.

…

Silence.

Complete and utter silence.

The clock on the wall wasn't making a noise as always…

…it ran out of batteries.

What? Was she expected to buy a pair? Nah, she wasn't interested. I mean, she would; Naori might not look it, but she was a very schedule-like person, always trying to be on time, even if she was a bit, bit, 'bit' early on everything she did. Heh, she loved irony, too bad they left for a trip to Lightning Country. Raikage probably suffocated them with his tanned armpit right about now.

Anyway, back to the 'clockitty clock clock'. It was just that her pay on a daily basis was not very good, not even able to get everything what she needed when making a trip to the 'market of supers'. That was why the bag near her always cried– it missed it's twin 'vewy' much. But she supposed sacrifices were to be made, like batteries, for example. Besides, the sun's position was her best friend nowadays, i.e. it helped her tell the time.

You really have a mood swing, don't you? Speaking about sacrificing when you were only a few weeks ago threatening the 'Keyhole'.

"Hey," Naori furrowed, "you heard what she said the other day. Speaking as if she and my prince were a couple. And you of all people should know how I feel about that."

Of course I do. The feeling's mutual, is it not?

"That goes the same for you." She threatened heavily.

Hah, as if you can even touch me. I'm your conscience, am I not?

"No you not. You're just a curse given to us Shudame during birth. Nothing more, nothing less. As soon as my prince finishes his destiny, you will be nothing but a thing of the past. Until then, you and I are unfortunate partners with the same convenient goals and… preferences."

Won't you be a thing of the past as well?

Naori tilted her head toward the ceiling. The bland, cracked ceiling. It's representation was appropriate for her heart. Cracked, and bland by the very thought her inner voice had spoken of.

"Yeah," She mumbled, "but that's fine." She placed a hand on her chest, her aching chest. "So long as he attains his rightful place on his throne, I will be in content."

Same here. Might be because we're one in the same?

She sighed, deciding to clear her mind by repacking the groceries. "Sure. Whatever you say."

-Empty-

"Hey there."

Sasuku turned her head. Naruko smiled at the Uchiha. It might have been forced, but that wasn't any of the black-eyed girl's concern. She looked forward again, sensing the blonde taking a seat next to her.

"Why are you here?"

"Ken invited me."

She sighed. "I thought as much. Sometimes his caring heart is more troublesome than affectionate for me."

"What?" Naruko blinked.

"N-Nothing." Thank goodness her flushed face was buried a bit in her arms that rested on her knees, so she didn't need to avert as if she was hiding something.

…

Naruko looked in front of her, her Kenny and the brat meeting her view. "Your mother's very kind."

"Yeah…"

"She works two jobs at once, right?"

"Yup." Sasuku said nonchalantly. Dinner time was, in other words, her mother's third 'interview' for another occupation. That occupation being an open book for her guests. One thing Sasuku didn't like personally. With an attitude like her parent's, anything could slip out that might change the tides of any wave. The thought was nerve-wracking if nothing else.

"It's barely dusk and yet she's at home."

"Busy, much?" She shot the blonde a glare.

"S-Sorry. Just curious."

"…" She turned back to the pair before them. "I don't ask questions about her work. What she does shouldn't be our concern, or at least that was what my mother said. Probably something happened at work, meaning more free time for the employees. But I'm no politician. I'm just a ninja with one goal in mind."

"To take down a specific person?"

"…Yes." The thought was anything but sunshine and rainbows. The memory fell in the same category.

Damn it, Itachi!

"Care to share who this person is?"

"No." She simply said.

"…Okay…" Her attention went back to the two in the field. "Hey, can I ask you a question?"

"No."

"Ken's your sister's sensei. Am I right on that?"

"Unfortunately."

"Unfortunately?"

'Cause then he would be spending more time with me, you idiot!' Sasuku's eyes bulged, before shaking her head rapidly. "Forget I said that."

"…Okay, well, I was just thinking, why aren't you teaching her? You are her sister, aren't you?"

"I'm too busy to teach her."

"Too busy watching them?"

"Don't piss me off, idiot." She warned, still staring forward, but her face grimaced nonetheless. "What that means is that I'm more focused on gaining strength than to give it out."

"Then why not train now?"

"Stop asking me questions already." Her face was a bit hot with embarrassment right now. The 'idiot' had a point though, she wasn't going to get stronger by just sitting around, but ever since Dead Last helped her perfect her Gokakyu, she had less confidence in herself training alone than being assisted by him. And, well, she couldn't fully concentrate on anything anymore ever since then, let alone find the motivation in them. Her mind just mindlessly drifts to Dead Last's face. She couldn't still be tired, right? Damn body! Only remedy she found out so far was said Genin being beside her. Sure, it made her act weird, internally and externally, but at least she became more focused and more motivated than before, and, well… excited, and… happy, she supposed.

Like he was the thing she needed all this time ever since her sister left her family behind. Someone that brought a smile on her face each time she saw theirs. At least, inside. Maybe even more. It certainly felt stronger.

So her slacking around was only because that damn numbskull wasn't spending more time with her personally. She wanted that… more than anything. Just to be alone with him like the time he lent a hand. Besides, he seemed more knowledgeable than her, so Dead Last coaching her was a definite must. But he probably didn't know that. She had to inform him after his session with her younger sister was over. Then they would finally be together, alone.

Maybe even… hold hands?

Her face reddened dramatically, but instead of denying such ridiculous ideas, she instead smiled fondly at the thought, her heart skipped several beats as if it were playing an organic version of hopscotch.

Yeah, holding hands could be fun.

Unfortunately, Naruko broke her trail of thought, causing her to grumble incoherent curses below her breath.

"I'm just saying, if you were to train her instead, then Ken-kun would have more time on his hands to spend time with his father."

"His father?"

"Yeah. The man's helping Ken mold his chakra, or at least, that's what Ken told me."

"Mold his chakra?" She glanced back at the boy in the distance. She… haven't thought of that before. Attempting to mold his– "Wait a second, that can't be right."

"What can't be right?"

"You can't learn how to mold chakra at this point."

"What?" Naruko raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"

"What I mean is, you either born with moldable chakra, or you're not. Dead Last hasn't been able to even jump ten feet in the air."

"Your point?"

"My point is that he was obviously born without moldable chakra."

"That… that can't be true."

"I'm almost certain, idiot."

"So you're not one hundred percent sure then."

"My certainty is irrelevant. I can't believe you haven't figured it out before. It's basic logic."

"You're lying." Naruko furrowed.

"I'm not." She shook her head. "We've all known this, but you somehow hadn't. Why do you think he was told time and time again to leave the Academy? Aside from the apparent hate he got, some people cared for him at least as a student of theirs. But even they told him to leave. Because he wasn't fit to be a ninja in the first place. He would just get himself killed if he miraculously succeeded in passing."

"And yet, here we are." Naruko crossed her arms.

"That's not the point, idiot. Listen carefully, cause I'm only going to tell you this one more time. Society is divided into two groups. Ninja, and non-ninja. Ninja are people who were fortunate enough to be born with above normal expectations, the other division isn't. Ninja can reform chakra as they see possible, the others cannot. Ninja are able to use supernatural abilities that are beyond the reaches of non-ninja. I'm not saying people can't be what hey want to be, a good example is Dead Last. But as Kakashi-sensei said before, and as much as it pains me to side with it, he's just not cut out to be a real ninja. Even with immense training sessions as he seem to put himself through, he's still unable to even walk on walls. Because he's not born to. Because he, just like the rest of the villagers, was born a non-ninja."

"…"

"…"

"…You know," Naruko muttered, her head hanging, "I came here not because I wanted to, but because Ken asked me to. He didn't beg, he asked. Along the way, he asked me to strengthen our 'bond' also. Again, he didn't beg, like he was desperate as all hell, he asked me. He asked. Do you know what that means?"

"…I–"

"Let me give you another situation then, one you can be familiar with. When he politely asked us to stop arguing after Kakashi-sensei's second test, we all listened. We all behaved. We all did what he asked us to. Do you understand now?"

"No, I–"

"How about the time at the Academy when you were being spoken about behind your back? You know what he did? Do you? He asked them to stop their bickering. And you know what? They complied. Whether it was because they understood what you might have done to them, or because they were not brave enough to start a fight with him and get suspended in the end is irrelevant. The important thing is that he stood up for you. You! Someone he wasn't friends with back then, who he didn't even know fundamentally, who still, to this day, calls him 'Dead Last'."

Sasuku opened her mouth to speak, but then closed it in realization.

"Do you finally understand what all of those moments mean? They show how extraordinary he was– he is. So what if he cannot mold chakra? Does that make him any less extraordinary than he already is? Does it make him any less of a ninja– a hero? No, it doesn't. As a matter of fact, he's just that influential even though he's not able to mold chakra. If that isn't what being a true ninja is all about, then I don't know what is. Sure, battling might be tough for him, but just look how far he has come." She looked up, pointing at the boy. "He's a Genin. A Genin! Something only ninja can be. The guy's gotten this far without any typical perks that comes with being 'born with moldable chakra'. If he can get this far, why can't he go any further? Because of the dangerous implications outside? Who the hell cares! He'll conquer that, I know he will. And do you want to know why?"

"…Why?" She somehow found herself asking.

"Because he's Tayamaru fucking Kenjo, that's why." She smiled confidently. "And anyone with that birth name has the ability to shock the doubters no matter what, especially you."

"…I…" She bit her lip, looking away in dismay, her gaze ending up on the Genin a ways from them despite averting. "…I don't doubt him."

"Then what's your excuse for being so 'undoubtful'?"

"I just… I don't want to see Ken-kun get hurt, okay?" She spoke softly.

Naruko's eyes widened in surprise. Did she… did she just say her BFF's name? And with an honorific no less?

"He's my teammate. He… he means too much to me. And if…" She bit her trembling lip, the grass delightfully absorbing the waterfall splashing on them, "and if berating and mistreating him despite the pain it might cause myself to do such things means he will quit putting himself on the line, then so be it!"

"…Sasuku…" Naruko uncrossed her arms, observing her trembling form.

"Do you think I enjoy calling him that name? It's the only thing I can think of that might save him from this profession. I don't care if he hates me in the end, so long as he's safe, so long as he's out of harm's way, my ugly soul can rest peacefully."

Suddenly, she was embraced. By the idiot. By Naruko. She had made her way in front to hug her soon-to-be-collapsing form, Sasuku's eyes too wide to even know what was happening. Where she was? What was going on? Was this really happening? The idiot hugging her?

She shivered.

Was it out of pity?

Her lip trembled.

Was it out of empathy?

Her hands raised sub-consciously.

Was it because of who the idiot really was?

Her hands quivered apprehensively.

The part under the idiot's– Naruko's– annoying competitiveness?

Her glistening eyelids hugging each other.

A caring and loving person?

Her arms landed on the blonde's back.

"It's okay," Naruko whispered, "I understand… I understand perfectly."

She tightened around Naruko.

She tightened around Sasuku as well.

They embraced each other warmly.

'Damn it, Itachi.' She cried internally, 'You really fucked me up big time, didn't you? Why only now am I feeling guilty treating my teammates, treating everyone, so poorly only now? No. No. No excuses. I'll… I'll do my best to reimburse. I'll try my upmost to redeem for my past mistakes. For mother. For Sakuri. For Kakashi-sensei. For Naruko.' She tightened even further, not wanting to let go. 'And especially for you, Ken-kun.'

Unbeknownst to the two, a quiet Mikoto watched them from behind, her head poking soundly from the front door, her smile spoke capacity of her joy for the scene in front of her. She knew by her daughter's attitude toward Naruko-chan, and by previous reports, that Team Seven wasn't the tightest team out there, especially when it came between the 'Rookie of the Year' and the 'Top of the Class'. To see them reconcile with each other was heart warming beyond belief.

Children grew up so fast.

"I did it!"

A voice broke the tension between the two, their hug discontinuing, both heads turning to the source. Sakuri was jumping up and down, celebrating her recent achievement.

Her spirit was contagious to their lips, all three females giggling from the excitement before them. Then, looking solemnly at Naruko, Sasuku made to speak. "N-Naruko… I just… I want to say, that I'm–"

"It's okay," She smiled back genuinely, "I was kinda of a bitch to you too, so we're even I guess. At least I'm not that big of an idiot to not realize my own mistakes."

"Yeah– no."

"Hey." She furrowed with a smile, lightly punching the Uchiha's arm.

Sasuku suddenly glared back, earning a wary look from Naruko, but then both started laughing.

"That w-was incredible, Saku-chan." Ken's voice was heard as the girl suddenly jumped in his arms, feet wrapping around his waist like a birthday gift.

"I finally did it! I did a ninjutsu! It's all because of you, Kennii-sensei! Thank you so much!"

"D-Don't thank me," He held her close around her back, her arms uncomfortably, yet pleasantly hugging his neck, "it w-wasn't me who did i-it. It was a-all because of y-your hard work, S-Saku-chan."

"Nonsense." She broke her arms' grip to stare at him better– though it still held on– her wide smile threatening to cross the boundaries of feasibility in length. "Your contribution was mandatory in order for me to even get this far. I can't thank you enough, Kennii-sensei."

"You're w-welcome, Saku-chan." He glowed a bit in embarrassment, causing the girl to giggle.

Before she knew it however, her own flushing face came close to his, her lips surprising him by smacking against his pale, yet cozy cheek.

It's pressure in the lines of gentle yet rough, with it's impact way past the point of lightness. When she finally pulled back due to agnization, both pairs of wide eyes saw the deep redness from the other, especially Sakuri's, which could even be felt from her home.

"S-S-Sorry, I-I didn't mean…"

"It's okay." Ken chuckled nervously. "I w-would be lying if I said I-I didn't like th-the affection."

That just made her turn even redder, steam suddenly whistling out of her beet red ears. She hugged him closely with force, leaning the Genin back a bit. "Silly doofus." She mumbled into his shoulder. "You know just how to embarrass me, huh?"

"S-Sorry…" He hugged her back apologetically.

"It's fine." She smiled contently, her blush still as present as ever. "Just… well, I-I, urm…"

She squirmed a bit in his grip, her drumming heart only one of many signs of her nervous reaction.

"What's wr-wrong?" He gulped, the redness of himself mild right now, his heart still trying to catch up with what just happened. He was kissed, by Saku-chan. How bizarre. He never thought in his wildest dreams that this hated boy he played as would get kissed. Sure, she was eight years of age, but Saku-chan was still a girl. But regardless of the age and gender, the kiss was affectionate, and that was all that was needed to bring a hopeful smile on his face. He knew she cared about him, but how she just projected her care, to go through such lengths by kissing his hated flesh, it made him feel wanted, not only by Naruko and the others, but by Saku-chan as well, if her actions beforehand weren't evident enough.

It was truly touching and memorable. Something he would hold onto for the rest of his life. Another reason to not reuse the rope that was safely tucked away in his drawer.

"…I just… I mean, if you really didn't dislike it, then well… I-I could, well, k-k-k-ki–" She bit her lip. Gosh, what was she doing? She was going to die out of embarrassment. But she couldn't help herself. He was driving her wild. Driving her on the fast lane. Man, was it heart fluttering. And her stuttering. Was this how he felt when he couldn't get the words out clearly? Poor Kennii-sensei, and for Kami knows how long. She should try to look up with a remedy for his impediment soon. "…I could… k-kiss you again. I mean," She nervously spoke up, "not now, n-not even soon. I mean. wh-what I meant was I, well… n-never mind." She gulped anxiously, sliding off and stepping back. Where was the ground's mouth when she needed it? What was she even thinking? Stupid brain! Stupid, stupid, stupid, STUPID! Now he really was going to hate her for being a weirdo beyond all doubt. "F-Forget what I said. I'm just b-being an idiot again. H-Heh heh…"

Ken frowned, leaning forward to be on eye level. "Hey," His curved pointer finger gently lifted her head from her round, cute chin, "Don't f-feel embarrassed about a-asking me such a th-thing. Frankly, I-I would be r-really honored to even b-be considered as s-someone to kiss. So i-if you feel like it, go r-right ahead, okay?" He leaned more and tenderly pecked her burning cheek, giving the pair of flesh more fuel. "'K?"

Sakuri's mouth gaped open a bit, unable to comprehend anything anymore. Her core was running crazy like a steam train. She was pretty sure she was going to pass out the way her body was a mile away from her. And pass out she did.

Ken caught her though, a sudden panic written on his face. "S-Saku-chan!? Saku-chan!? A-Are you okay!? Answer me!"

Through it all however, the little girl smiled peacefully, her mind in a whirl of unconscious bliss.

-Empty-

"I see you children are enjoying yourselves?" Mikoto asked innocently, hoping she hadn't been found peeking on them. It wasn't criminal, but certainly rude.

Thank goodness she did decide to eavesdrop though; Naruko-chan and her daughter's moment was so heart warming. Don't get her started with Sakuri either. The girl fainting like that was just to die for. 'Gosh,' She thought, 'I didn't know her little crush on her 'Kennii-sensei' was so intense. It's just so adorable. What a cute couple they would make. But I doubt my older daughter will just give up if that even were to happen. Naruko-chan probably has a thing for Ken-kun too. What a polyamorous conflict. Hopefully Ken-kun would choose all of them. What a lucky boy. And such a charmer in his own way too.' She mentally bit her lower lip. 'Too bad I'm not around his age. I guess I'll just have to make do his cute politeness for myself personally.' Sighing with a hint of disappointment, the Uchiha woman shook back to reality.

She really missed being loved. Sure, she had family love, but ever since her Fugaku-kun 'passed on', aside from the heart shattering reality of it all, Mikoto really longed for a man to sweep her off from her feet again. She remembered being single before meeting her husband. It was really lonely. Like a piece of her soul was missing, needing to be found by her soul mate. When she met Fugaku though, she thought she finally found eternal happiness. But unfortunately, it wasn't meant to be.

Now single once more, and a parent no less, Mikoto was missing herself again. She knew Fugaku was a wonderful man by his own right, and just thinking about betraying his rested soul with another disgusted her to no end, but she couldn't help herself.

She was human too. She needed affection as much as the person next to her. Without it, mundane adventures only became more blander and more desaturated. It was dreadful, even with her daughters around her. She needed color back in her world again, desperately.

Besides, her daughters needed a fatherly figure sooner than later, otherwise they'll never feel the joy of having a loving dad again, especially for young Sakuri.

But surviving came first regardless, so her quest for love would have to wait.

"I suppose you can say that." Sasuku entered the building along with the others.

"Well, it's getting a bit late," Naruko glanced at the orange hue of a sky. Pure dazzling beauty. "I better get home before it gets dark. Thank you again Mikoto-sama, for the hospitality, for everything." She bowed respectfully, her gold pigtails touching the floor.

"It was my pleasure, my dear." She flashed a kind smile. "But about your departure."

"Hmm?" She stood up straight, arching an eyebrow.

"I was wondering if you'd like to sleep over for the night."

"Sleep… over?"

"Mmhmm." She nodded. "In fact, if you would like, you could stay here instead."

"Stay… here?" She questioned again, her shock clearly visible.

"Just agree, idiot." Sasuku teased. "Besides, Dead La– I-I mean," She stole a glance over Ken's direction, but the boy obviously caught it due the attention mainly on her. "K-Ken-kun… is already staying over, so you might as well also."

"I…" Naruko blinked, not sure what to decide, while Ken gave Sasuku a momentary stare, his surprise perceptibly radiating from his expression, not expecting the Uchiha to actually address him by his real name, and with an honorific no less.

'Well, that is a wonder.'

"I mean," Naruko fidgeted awkwardly, "I don't want be of a nuisance…"

"Nonsense." The woman waved her off with a smile. "We would be grateful if you accept the offer. Also, there's enough room as it is; you can sleep in the room down the hall to the left."

Sasuku immediately realized what room was being mentioned.

"I…" She bit her lip, eyes shadowed dramatically. "I don't… I don't know what to say…"

"How about a thank you?" Sakuri raised an eyebrow.

"You're right." Naruko looked back at Mikoto cheerfully, wiping some leaked tears. "Arigatou gozaimasu!"

"You're welcome, Naruko-chan." Mikoto eye-smiled.

"Still," Ken said through the softening tension, "we b-better tell your parents about your s-sleepover." This made Mikoto raise a suspicious eyebrow.

"N-No," Naruko sounded a bit panicked, but she quickly regained control with a shake of her head, "I mean, they wouldn't mind."

"Really?"

"Yeah," She nodded reassuringly, "I told them if I miss my curfew, then that would mean I was planning to sleep over at my friend's."

"Wait," He cocked an eyebrow, "you mean t-to say you expected this to h-happen?"

"Well, not exactly." She fidgeted nervously, "I was… referring to you."

"Oh." Ken put two and two together, but was still unsure. "Are you certain it's a-a good idea? I mean, it wouldn't hurt j-just to give them the message."

"I'm sure, Kenny."

"Well, alright then."

Naruko almost sighed in public, thankful he hadn't asked about what she was even going to wear to bed. She usually just slept with her jacket off, since her closet was rather… vacant.

"Then I guess y-you have to borrow some clothes f-from Sasuku-chan." Ken chuckled, causing Naruko to stiffen nervously.

Sasuku grunted incoherently. "Well, if I have to."

"Thanks, Sasuku." Naruko smiled politely.

The elder woman smiled fondly. "Gosh, your politeness really resembles that of Ken-kun's. Two peas in a pot, in other words."

"That's Naruko f-for you," Ken shook his head with a sigh, "always f-following in th-the footsteps of coolness."

"Heh," She sent him a smirk, "this is the first time you've 'actually' been humble. But that's Ken-kun for you," She shook her head, her locks moving from side-to-side, "always following in the footsteps of amazement."

They couldn't help it, every one of them just burst out laughing.

For a while, problems were no where to be seen. If only it would have lasted more longer.

-Empty-

Knock. Knock.

Ken blinked, turned around to the door. A silhouette stood behind the shoji door. "Co–" He froze, and looked down. He was in a towel and nothing more.

Oh shit.

Whoosh.

Sasuku locked eyes with a frozen green Genin.

Well, at least things couldn't get any worse than this.

Flop.

A dampened towel laid idly around a stark naked male's legs.

Well, at least things couldn't get more– n-nope, not going to finish that thought!

"S-Sa-Sa-Sasuku-ch-chan!" He panicked like a child being caught stealing from the cookie jar, trying desperately to cover himself with his hands while he made to pick the damn cloth up from resting.

Sasuku's face couldn't have been more redder, eyes fixated on the nakedness of her teammate's now covered… thing.

"Wh-Why did y-you open th-the door!?" He nearly shouted, finally protected from below.

Wasn't this the guest room, where he was obviously staying in? What was the big deal!?

She blinked, then gulped loudly, trying awkwardly to avert somewhere else. His presence was like a flippin' magnet or something! "Y-You were about to allow me access, so I let m-myself in."

"About. Not f-fully!" He furrowed embarrassingly, his face almost as colorful as Sasuku-chan's. To be honest, it was the brightest he had ever been, especially considering his pale complexion.

"Hey!" She closed the door behind, realizing the predicament they were in. If someone were to see them like this, all hell would break loose. "You saw me naked too!"

"I s-said I was s-sorry, didn't I? I wasn't a-aware someone was inside a-already."

"Well, nice excuse. You should achieve an award for it. Don't you know, catching a girl so vulnerable like that ruins any and all connections to the voyeur?"

"I…" He blinked, surprised. "I d-didn't know you felt so…"

Her eyes bulged a bit too. "I-I mean," She crossed her arms, huffing to the side, "it didn't have that much of a negative impact. I was still really upset that you had caught me in such a state though."

"I'm… sorry…" He looked down, his own half-nakedness secondary to his mind right now. "I'm r-really sorry… I didn't m-mean…"

"It's fine." She gave him a glance, noting his guilty expression. She felt really awful causing such an emotion on him. "I mean, I know you didn't mean it, and I guess looking at it, if I were to be found like that by someone, you wouldn't be the last person I would want it to be…"

Ken stared back at her… Wha…?

"I-I mean," She looked away again, her blush returning knowing what it might have meant, and because he was still half naked. Just knowing what hid behind that single piece of cloth made her heart race and face burn with embarrassment. It would forever be ironed into her mind. Pictures in sex-ed books paled in comparison to the real thing though. It seemed much… bigger and… thicker than how she imagined it would be, or how the illustrations portrayed it. She shook her head a few times to try and concentrate. "you would definitely not be the first person I would want to see me so susceptible like that. Perv. That spot's reserved for the special someone who will obviously never be you." She bit her lip again, her heart sinking. Her pride really made her do discourteous and unappreciative actions. 'Was I not just a moment ago revealing how much I cared about him? And yet here I am, acting like a bitch. Sure, the message wasn't impolite, only a rejection, I suppose. But the tone I used… damn it, get it together already, Sasuku!'

"Oh…" He looked to his side, then gave her an expectant look. "I s-suppose you have some-th-thing to tell me, but c-can it wait a little?"

"Why?" She looked back, only to blush furiously again. "Y-Yeah… sure. Urm… s-sorry for barging in."

'Sorry'. She almost never apologized for anything, always shrugging her mistakes off to the side. Though with Ken-kun recently, Sasuku felt inclined to do it regardless of her opinion. It was the right thing to do anyway, right?

"It's fine." He smiled. "I d-deserved it for being a peeping t-tom."

"So… you were peeping on me?" Strange, the thought didn't upset her, just as him being the actual 'special someone'. Damn it, what was going on with her nowadays!?

"N-No I wasn't! I m-mean, it w-wasn't intentional o-or anything, it was…"

Sasuku giggled, surprising her companion. Last time he heard her laugh, well, while they were alone at least, was when they sat on the porch, eyeing the dedicated Lightning user he taught, since this evening her laughter had been camouflaged by the others'. Sure, it was only a mere chuckle, but it was music to his ears nonetheless. So to hear her laugh again was, again, a soothing music box being played on a rainy day.

Really enlightening.

"Naruko's right, you really do look cute when you stumble with embarrassment."

"C-Cute?" He flushed a bit more, growing the girl's eyes.

"Wh-What are you talking about!? I didn't say none of the sorts!" She hurried to the door. "Just get dressed, Ken-baka!"

Whoosh, and she was gone.

Ken blinked, completely confused. Was it really him hearing things?

'Shit. Don't tell me not only am I suppose to put up with my impediment and disabilities, but also an early senile stage!?'

Kami, he hoped that wasn't the case.

-Empty-

"What was all the racket just now?" Naruko came across a flushed Sasuku, her face attempting to avert away.

"I-It was nothing."

"People say that, and yet it almost definitely mean something else."

"It was nothing, okay? I just… wasn't aware how loud I was…"

"Right…" Naruko dragged, squinting her eyes in suspicion. "Was it because you waltz in while Kenny-kun was dressing?"

"Wh-Wha?!" Sasuku nearly tripped, catching herself just in time. "Wh-What makes you say that?"

"He left the bathroom a moment ago," She pointed behind her, "and you are coming from down the hall, which is, if I'm not mistaken, his temporary bedroom."

"You…" The Uchiha trailed off awkwardly. Was it that obvious, or was Naruko that mindful? Maybe both? Damn it! She really had no other words to astray the blonde anymore. "I-It's not what it seems." She waved, flustered. "I didn't mean to barge in. He spoke and I thought the coast was clear."

"I doubt it." She crossed her arms. "Kenny is anything but a pervert. I should know this." Then, a devious smirk crossed her face. "Wait, were you timing the situation?"

"What?"

"Did you wanted to catch him with his pants down, literally?"

"N-No!" She fumed. "Of course not!"

"It's fine if you wanted that." Naruko waved her off. "I know puberty is around the corner, and you might have already entered the 'danger zone', so curiosity can grasp anyone in that state, no matter their morals."

"I wasn't trying to, idiot!" She stomped rather adorably. When they met, Naruko didn't like the uptight, arrogant asshole that was Uchiha Sasuku. But for her to actually burst with embarrassed emotion? Man, the once silent emo really came a long way.

"Sure you weren't." The blonde patted her on the shoulder. "I mean, it's not like you actually have feelings for him."

Sasuku made to speak, but didn't utter anything, rather, she closed her PIE hole with uncertainty of her next rebuttal. She haven't thought it that way before. Feelings? For Ken-kun? The thought seemed ridiculous at first. I mean, she was an Uchiha. Not only were her goals, or goal, already aligned and destined to be initiated, and that she really didn't have the time to play 'intimacy' with anyone, but an Uchiha in general was expected to traditionally tie the knot with a person who had the same standards as they had.

Last time she checked, Ken-kun didn't have a single ninjutsu under his name, no moldable chakra, no speed to physically keep up with her, and was as a whole, just not cut out to be a ninja, as far as statistics went.

But even still, her emotions told her differently. Yeah, she had said he wasn't cut out to be one just an hour ago, but if she was really honest with herself, then she would absolutely 'bitch-slap' her own self for even considering such an absurd proposal. Ken-kun was a hero, a ninja, in his own way, and no number of rejections could change that.

She was really proud of him. Of how far he was going. It made her happy, to know someone who was shunned by society just because he was a 'weakling', was becoming a prominent ninja. He was going to achieve his goal, she just knew it.

Regardless of the above, Ken-kun being this figure Naruko just described as Sasuku's 'attraction' didn't bring up nausea, nor did it bring up any rejected riposte. In fact, it actually sent a weird warm feeling down her stomach.

WHAT THE HELL WAS GOING ON WITH HER!?

Naruko raised an eyebrow. "Right?"

"I…" She shook her head. "Of course I don't. Don't be ridiculous. I don't have anything like that for someone like him."

"But you care about him? Don't you?"

"I…" She bit her lip, "of course I do. I… I care a lot."

"Then it's possible you're in love." Naruko smiled, again sending a flabbergast up the Uchiha's spine.

"I don't." She said, less sure of herself. Was that really why she cared? Because she cared… deeply enough to have such feelings?

"You're probably right." The blonde shrugged, turning for her leave. She stopped after a few steps. "Don't get me wrong, it's not like I'm okay with what you might feel, it's just I care for my BFF as well."

Sasuku stared at the back of Naruko's head, a bit confused.

"I care enough to put his own wants and needs in front of my own. And I'm not saying that to seem as if I'm this cool, selfless person. No… I just want him to be happy. He deserves it. So if you two do feel something for each other," She turned her head, smirking confidently at the Uchiha, "just know that I have your backs, okay?"

"…Sure…"

Then, Naruko was gone, humming faintly to herself.

Sasuku just stood there, not sure what happened.

-Empty-

"Where were you?" Naruko's voice had a strong sense of strictness in it, which couldn't be good news all around, especially when it was being addressed to him. Ken gulped, having an idea on what the question was referring to. Both females– Naruko and Sasuku-chan– were staring at him, both were upset, and both were waiting impatiently for a reply.

"Didn't my l-letter explain my nightly wh-whereabouts?" He was almost certain the note he left behind elaborated enough for them to not panic because of him.

"No, it didn't." Sasuku crossed her arms.

"It only said you would be gone for the night." Naruko summarized the message.

"I was j-just taking a s-stroll." Ken raised his hands in defense.

Lie.

"Kenny," His BFF looked disappointed, "that lie wasn't even funny."

"B-But I'm not l-lying."

Lie.

"Stop lying." Sasuku took a step forward, the warm, yet breezing morning hitting the three on their Team's bridge. "Just speak the truth already. Don't you trust us?"

"I do, I…" Ken sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "It's c-complicated."

"Why?" Naruko asked.

"I… I c-can't explain. Just kn-know I didn't d-do anything stupid l-last night."

"We know you won't." The Uchiha uncrossed her arms, pocketing one of her hands. "Just… try to be more open to us and use the front door next time, okay? My sibling was really worried."

"She was?"

"Yeah." Naruko nodded. "I told her it was your handwriting, but she wouldn't believe me."

"Oh…" He glanced down with guilt, but soon looked back up with a reassuring smile. "Okay, I'll b-be less suspicious n-next time."

"Good." Both returned the smile, a peaceful silence absorbing the atmosphere for the rest of the duration.

"Yo." Kakashi finally appeared.

"Finally." Sasuku nagged, despite the pleasant harmony of her daydreaming. Man, Ken-kun was really an invading thought, wasn't he? "Why can't you just be on time for once in your life, Kakashi-sensei?"

"I agree." Ken and Naruko coincidentally said at the same time.

"Oh, don't be like that." He scratched his cheek. "Is it not evident enough that I'm a busy man?"

"No." All three said bluntly, producing a sweatdrop from the Jounin.

"That's no fair, you're ganging up on me." He complained, though honestly, he was really glad. Not because of his misfortune, but because of the early uplifting nature between his students and him, specifically Ken. Since two days ago, the boy had kept his distance away from him, and it was more personal than just his typical daydreaming. That was understandable however. They hadn't ended on a good note last time, which was generally his fault for amplifying the situation. He didn't mean to hurt the boy– he never would dream of doing such a thing intentionally against his students, or anyone close to him for that matter– but it unfortunately felt so for the longest of times. Even returning from the land of Waves was a silence he would rather forget.

Now however, Ken was laughing alongside his comrades, like nothing had ever happened between the four of them. Just a bad, forgotten dream. Even if it was because of his dismay, Kakashi never would've expected him to lighten up so quickly around the person who seemed to dislike his taste in every thing he did, especially when the former Anbu had not even apologized yet. He was about to, specially after Kurenai's advice, so to speak. It really made him glad to see the positivity infesting the atmosphere so extemporaneously.

Still though, the covered happening from before was still there, he could feel it, no matter how much joy they dispersed. Which was why, whilst they made their way to Training Ground Three, instead of taking out his book of Icha Icha like always, he brought out the 'book of closure'.

"Ken?" He somehow got Ken on one side; separating him a little ways from the others. The copy ninja didn't know why he needed to speak to the boy in private for this matter. He wasn't that introverted, despite what his nose might say when buried in his favorite series, when it came to interacting with others, and yet, he wasn't sure if it was his nerves or just the proper talking method when he got the Genin alone with him.

"Hmm?" He looked up at the man, instinctively slowing down to keep pace with him.

"Well, about what I said a few days ago."

"A few d-days ago…? Oh, you m-mean your advice."

"Yeah, my advice." Kakashi didn't know if Ken was mocking him or was actually being genuine. I mean, maybe back when the heat of the moment was still burning the white-haired male thought of it as such, despite the harsh reality it might have brought up, but overtime, or maybe once Kurenai had, quote on quote, put him in his place, he realized that his so called 'lecture' was anything but. "I just wanted to apologize for what I said back then."

Why was he scratching his head so awkwardly? Why did he feel so 'out of his element'? This wasn't his first apology, and it was definitely not his first genuine one either. He had gone through this tunnel before, but now for some reason, he wasn't equipped with an enlightened torch or any light source for that matter.

It was completely dark– completely uncomfortable. But why? And why was it that Ken was looking so calm and… confused? Was it those emotions being shot at Kakashi from the boy's eye that was the result of his discomfort? It was so disturbing to know the Jounin was this vulnerable.

"Apologies? Wh-Why? I don't get i-it."

…Nani? "What do you mean you don't understand?"

"That's j-just it. I just don't get it. W-Were you not l-lecturing us for future co-n-nundrums?"

"I was." He shook his head. "I mean, the way I said it was unnecessary, much less the pleonasm clearly evident in my so called 'advice'. I didn't mean to put you– all three of you– in such a compromised position. My choice of words were poor, and were judgmental at it's best." He looked down shamefully, despite his mask masking half of the expression. It surprised Ken to say the least. He always viewed Kakashi-sensei as this monumental ninja who always knew what needed to be done, what needed to be said, and what was best for anyone he came across. His stature was just that incredible. His sensei was, in simple terms, the summarized personification of what he wanted to become one day. And to see the man doubting himself so was just…

…Wow…

"Kakashi-s-sensei…" He started, cutting off any other words the man was planning to say. "I… I get it n-now."

"You… get it?"

"Yeah." He gave him a small, sad smile. "I under-s-stand the place where you're s-standing in. It's n-not easy having to b-break yourself down for s-something to proceed forward."

Kakashi gave him a look, which made the boy chuckle a bit, realizing how stupidly philosophical he might have sounded.

"What I m-mean is… we all see y-you as this cool, amazing n-ninja everyone a-admires and/or fears. What you s-said could've been better p-portrayed , sure, a-and realizing that y-yourself got yourself in a fickle. A-Apologizing might've needed f-for you to break your s-stature down a bit, if n-not, a lot, which could h-have others judge you as a-an imperfect ninja wh-who doesn't always know wh-what is the right p-path to take. That by i-itself could not be a g-good sign as a leader, a J-Jounin, and even a s-sensei."

Kakashi's look of uncomprehending only deepened, and was about to deny such a foolish explanation when the speech finally sunk in. Wait, was that really what he was feeling? The unknown lurking behind his mind that he couldn't grasp properly? He was… afraid of being wrong? No, no that couldn't be it. He knew he wasn't a library with all the answers for all the questions out there, so screwing up once in a while was just something waiting around the corner for him. Obi… Obito's demise was a summary of such reasoning.

But then… why did it feel like Ken-kun was spot on with his elaboration on what he was uncomfortable with? It was crazily illogical, and yet, it made total sense at the same time. Maybe… maybe it was that exact moment what was causing all of this mixed confusion. The moment he had witnessed his comrade– both of them, die right before his vision. The moment he realized he needed to be more stronger, more knowledgeable, more everything, to prevent such memories from happening again. It made him more strict with his orders, more strict with his lectures.

So maybe coming to terms with how wrong he was, despite how much he wanted to be right for others, for the lives around him, made this particular situation– the alone time with Ken, the apology for his 'advice', the explanation of his wariness, everything– more intensely disappointing and self-loathing than it could've been. It was because despite the self-discipline he partook to be a better version of himself for everyone, including himself, Kakashi was faced with the destructive reality of this world.

He would never be a perfect protector of death.

The thought scared him, very.

Obito.

Rin.

He missed them so much…

"I…" He tried saying, but couldn't continue due to the shocking revelation. Was Ken-kun always this… intelligible?

"It's okay," Ken smiled genuinely, "I f-forgive you, Kakashi-sensei."

"Hey." They looked in front. Naruko and Sasuku stared back. "What are you guys stopping for? Let's get a move on already, 'ttebayo!"

Ken glanced back at the man, his smile still on display. "Well? Let's not keep th-the cheetahs waiting a-any longer."

Kakashi-sensei just kept staring, seeming to be fascinated by something.

Ken became confused because of this. 'Strange. Did I say something wrong?'

"Sure." He walked past his student. "Just don't hold me back again, slowpoke."

The Genin raised an eyebrow, a curiously pleasant smile replacing the soft one from before. "Hey, Kakashi-sensei w-was the one who needed a break f-from his 'busy schedule'."

The older male chuckled through the fabric, knowing the reference. It was amazing how an expectedly sour day could turn out so sweet in the end.

Amazing indeed.

-Empty-

Knock. Knock.

"Are you done yet, Mimiru?"

…

Knock. Knock.

"Mimiru…?"

…Damn it, the little neko wasn't responding through the bedroom door. It might have been because Sakura was asking, or maybe because she was too busy getting ready for the Academy. Still, how long could one take to get ready for a Ninja Academy? There was no dress code and no personal equipment necessary, well, maybe a bag of notes, but that was it. So why was it so difficult to prepare yourself for something like this? Was it an intentional drag? Damn it!

She was going to be late for today's meeting for Team Nine. If only she wasn't responsible for locking up the house after their departure.

Man, why was her mother's medic appointment needed to be so early on a day dad worked on as well? Sure, her sister could do it instead, but Sakura was told to, and judging by how unresponsive the eight year old was to her, the Genin couldn't risk Mimiru somehow not have heard the order, or just plain doubted the young Academy student would even listen in the first place.

Due to being told by the one who ruined everything between them.

Sigh, she really screwed up big time. So many what ifs and could haves, just because she happened to open her flippin mouth on this 'crush' her sister had on Kenjo.

This was really going to be the death of her.

Knock. Kno–

The door swung open, surprising the pink-haired kunoichi.

Mimiru eye-smiled, skipping past her with a melody being hummed from her diaphragm.

Sakura's eyes followed the girl downstairs, finally sighing in relief. Well, at least what little patience she still had could at last regenerate itself again. Walking behind, Sakura witnessed her sister turned the knob of the front door and–

Click!

'…Did… did she just closed the door in my face…?' Sakura's eye twitched.

As she said before, this whole thing between the two was going to be the death of her.

-Empty-

"Hey Kenny?"

The boy stopped, and looked behind him. Naruko stared back with a wide smile.

"Hmm?"

"Wanna spar?"

"S-Spar?"

"Yeah." She swiftly gave a straight jab in front of her. "I realized all you've been doing for our training sessions are solo practice over there and occasional observation on how I kick Sasuku's ass."

Said girl rolled her eyes.

"So, whaddaya say?"

"I…" He turned to face her properly, revolved away from the spot he was aiming for. The spot he usually trained by himself. Funny enough, this was the first time in a long time he was asked this. The first couple of times came from Naruko as well, during the first days when they joined Team Seven. Her expression from before still lingered in his mind.

Psych. Hype. Excitement. Pure enthusiasm. Just like always.

He rejected the offers, obviously, forcing his friend to spar with Sasuku-chan instead. The proposals probably ended due to constant 'disinterest' on his end, some interruptions stopping the offers without his knowledge, or maybe both. Regardless, he was left with his devices in peace since that day, until now.

Her expression showed the same eagerness from before, although there was an undertone being shown as well. An undertone of… wariness? Doubt? Maybe even foreseeing disappointment?

A steel for rejection, perhaps?

He was planning to just gently lower the suggestion down a peg, as he had done in previous times, but just knowing such an undertone existed, in Naruko no less, had cut his options in half.

From two, to one.

From no, to…

Oh god, was he really going to do this to himself? I mean, it wasn't real fighting, well, not to the bitter end at least, and it was a good way to test out how far one has came, but damn, was he going to receive a blue eye at the end of this, and then some.

That was, if Naruko wasn't planning to go easy on him. But then again, no progress would be made for none of them if that were the case, right?

Yep, a sack of ice was guaranteed at the end of all of this.

"Sure." He tried to put on a pumped expression, or at least a reassuring smile at best, but he could feel fakeness smacking it's self-promotion on his face, revealing itself for all to see.

But the way Naruko's face lit up like a thousand light bulbs in one enclosed area really made all of it worth it.

'Gosh, she has such an amazing smile.'

"Woo-hoo! That's what I'm talking 'bout, 'ttebayo!"

"I'm next." Sasuku suddenly announced. "That is, next in line to spar with De– Ken-kun." Man, she still needed to get use to his real name. It was a pleasant change for her tongue, sure, but she supposed the change was really embarrassing for her stature, and/or because of the repercussion hanging on for dear life due to using the name so many countless times. Especially if her damn self couldn't verbalize his name without a darn honorific!

…Fuck… He was really screwed, if he wasn't already. Oh well, it could be fun.

Yeah, getting beaten up is ssoooo much fun.

…Wh-What was that?

He looked around like a maniac. Was that… the voice from before? Wait, wasn't it always just Ken being conscious of himself in the past? Why did it… But he wasn't even in the motion of thinking verbally, much less in that manner.

…What in the world was going on?

"Kenny?" Naruko tilted her head. "Something wrong?"

"Oh…" He gave her half of his attention. "It's n-nothing."

"Okay… if you say so." She got into position. "Ready?"

"Huh?" He finally realized her stance. "O-Oh, sure, let's."

"This will be interesting." Kakashi stood next to Sasuku. "Aside from his intelligence on traps and aiming during training, I never had gotten a chance to see where Ken-kun stood on the bar of skill on a general level before. Not even when I interrupted their bout against that masked person."

"Yeah, no joke." Sasuku crossed her arms. "Surprisingly, this is the first time we'll get to witness it. Naruko probably has a general idea what it is though, since not only is she his best friend, but also because she was with him when they fought against the bastard. By the way, has Kakashi-sensei found anything new on him? The masked man, that is."

"No, unfortunately not." He looked at his two students in front of them. "Hopefully, we'll be more ready next time we face such enemies in the future."

"We better." She stared at her male comrade. "I wouldn't want anything like that happening again to any one of you, especially Ken-kun."

"Hmm? What was that?"

"N-Nothing." She brushed him off, not interested in sharing her growing blush either.

Meanwhile, Ken was still trying to wrap his head around what was going to happen. Throughout his life, he never actually got to spar with Naruko before, even back at the Academy, where he was expected to, but refused, with anyone really, too afraid he'd be embarrassed shitless compared to his opponent. Although, he had been content to assist Naruko on occasions with her own training. She was happy at least for that, but was obviously disappointed at the same time.

But right now, she was finally going to spar with her friend. Her best friend. Her BFF. Her Ken, Ken-kun, Kenny-kun. Her Kenny. It was still so surreal to know it was actually going to go down.

But she couldn't dwell on it too much though.

He couldn't dwell too much either.

He needed to focus.

She needed to focus.

For him.

For her.

For their best friend.

"Ready?" Naruko asked once more, a determined frown resonating on her face.

"Yeah." He nodded back, the same frown mirroring hers.

The two bystanders stood by and watched carefully, knowing right now, history was going to be made.

What type of history wasn't definite though.

But it was there.

They could feel it.

The duo ready for mobility could feel it as well.

The regulations, and how far they would go with it were irrelevant right now.

What mattered the most was what was going to happen in a few seconds time.

Two close friends who knew each other so well were suddenly going to become closer.

Ken and Naruko suddenly broke into a pair of smiles.

Then rushed in with adrenaline pulsing through their veins.

And struck.

-Empty-

End of Chapter.

Phew. This is actually the longest chapter I've written yet; standing at a whopping Eleven Thousand plus words. It would've been longer, but I wanted to give the 'fight' between Naruko and Kenjo the space and nurture it deserves. Shoving it into this already stretched upload would've just been a giant cluster of madness, if it isn't already.

So that will be it's own chapter. It's completed, along with Chapter Sixteen. The only reason it's not up yet is because of needing to double check for grammatical errors, so I'll upload it as soon as I'm done with that.

Thank you again for your continued support, guys!

Until next time.

-Narurific-