Kakuzu's Treasure
Chapter 22: Hallucinations
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Perspective: Snow
Snow's Perspective
Where am I?! This wasn't Master's land? How did I get so far away? The sound of my heart beating was the only thing I could hear. Calm, I have to calm down. I collected my thoughts. Kakuzu, that's how I got here. This is no strange place this is my home. Kakuzu. Where is he?! My panic only grew, when the sounds of my hunters growing closer. I won't go back to that hell. Not after I've tasted freedom and love. I rather die than go back! I tensed when someone came into view. A guard. I'd taken to long to think. I didn't know whether to flee or accept my fate.
"Little Bitch, don't move", yelled one of his guards.
I stared at him. Never had a guard called me by that. I spared a few seconds to look at him. I'd never seen him before. There was a three-bladed scythe in his hand. I touched the scars on my abdomen. I know that blades. It's Hidan's. How did this guard get it?! Did he defeat Hidan? If that were true I don't stand a chance. I shook my head. I have to fight. There's no way I'll be able to outrun him.
"Please, I don't want to fight", I begged.
He gave a harsh laugh.
"You can't take me. Not in your wildest dreams", he said.
He stepped closer. No, I can't allow him any near. Diamond blades sprouted out of the earth to protect me. One pierced the guard's, heart.
"You fucking bitch what was that for?" asked the guard.
How is he still alive?! No, I don't have the time to think on such things. I need to run. I crashed into something. Sadly, it was a something it was a someone. Another guard. I was about to take off when he said it.
"Snow",
I froze. How does he know that name?
"Look at me", he pleaded.
That voice I know that voice. But it can't be, can it? I turned to face his gaze.
"Snow, it's me, Kakuzu", he said.
My hands fisted.
"How do you that name?!" I screamed not caring who would hear.
How dare this man claim to be the one I love! Blades of diamond jutted out of the ground, forming a protective barrier around me. He placed his large hand on the diamond.
"Please, Snow you know me. Can't you see that?" he said.
The ache in his voice hurt my heart. Why does it hurt me? My legs grew weak and I was forced to the ground. I hugged my legs close to my chest.
"You know me, Snow. You know better than anyone else", he said.
The walls around me shattered like glass. Sparkling fragments diamond floated slowly to the ground. The guard still stood in front of me, but I didn't have the power to move.
"You're not him!" I growled.
"Yes, I am", he said.
His voice was calm, but I could hear the underlying tones of frustration.
"I'll prove it to you", he said.
His tone was softer. I looked up at him, trying to figure out exactly what he was up to.
"I know you are ill and now your mind is playing tricks", said the guard.
I clutched my head and my body started shaking. No this can't be a delusion. It's too real.
"When you have nightmares, you feel safest in my arms. Where you can listen to my hearts beat, because you know it means you're safe and no one will ever harm you there", he said.
How does know that? Before I could make a run for it, he embraced me tightly. I couldn't move. My ear was pressed against his chest. I heard his hearts beatings. All five of them. His embrace loosened enough for me to pull away and gaze up at him. There was no guard. I was trapped safely in Kakuzu's embrace. I buried my nose into his chest and breathed in his scent.
"Kakuzu", I said.
His body relax.
"Snow",
I forced myself out of his embrace when I heard other growing near. The guards are still following. Kakuzu disappeared from my vision.
"Where are you?" I cried.
"Snow, I'm here", said the guard.
"Don't call me that!" growled Snow.
Sapphires fell from my eyes.
"I want to go home!" I screamed.
Sapphires fell from my eyes.
"I can take you home", said the guard with his hand outreached.
I swatted it away.
"Not with you! NEVER WITH YOU!"
The man took a few steps back, but he was still close enough to pounce on me. There was hurt in his eyes.
"You're not him! Why can't leave me alone? What horrible things have I done in my life to earn such agony? My only wish is to live my life with the man I love", I said.
The guard was stunned. I took the chance to run.
"Snow come back!" yelled the guard.
My pace slowed, when I heard that voice. The deep warm tone belonged to Kakuzu, but when I glanced back he wasn't there. I took a breath to get some bearing on where I was. I was at the clearing where Kakuzu and I trained. I couldn't stop myself from daydreaming, which a mistake. In that short space of time, I was surrounded by guards.
"Snow, it's okay we are your friends", said one of the guards.
"You have no right to call me that! You stood by and watched as that monster tormented me!" I yelled.
I couldn't control my anger. The earth beneath my feet shook violently as diamond blades erupted from the ground. It encaged them. I took a moment to stare back at them, before taking off. I ran through the night and most of the next morning. My legs only stopped moving, when I tripped. I skidded roughly along the ground. There were deep scratches all over my body. I stumbled on the road toward a nearby tree.
My shoes ragged from my pace. I took them off and threw them to the side. My feet were blistered and cut. I forced myself to my feet and winced. Can't stop. Have to keep moving. I took a few unsteady steps, before going into a full run.
My body gave into the exhaustion and my legs went out from under me. After running for such a long extent of time, I should have expected this. If I don't rest my body will completely shut down. In the distance, there was a barn. That will have to do. The sun was rising. A start to a new day. I walked to the door. It creaked as I slid it open. I walked into a random stall and fell asleep in pile of hay. I felt a soft muzzle gently against my cheek. It belonged to a large Clydesdale. The horse reminded me of Midnight.
"Sorry big guy I fell asleep in your breakfast", I said as I stroked the horse's nose.
He leaned his muzzle into my touch.
"You remind me of my horse Midnight", I said.
His ear perked up when I called him by that name. His large brown eyes focused on me. I slowly got to my feet and stumbled out of the stall. In the hall in front was a tall man at least six feet tall. He was muscular in build and had ash on his hand and face. His hair was messy and black. It was streaked with gray. His eyes were warm amber.
"What are you doing in my barn?" asked the man.
My vision went dark. When I woke, I was in a giant bed that took up most of the room. When I woke, I was in a giant bed that took up most of the room. A whiny caught my attention. The large black horse was gazing at me through the window. He's my Midnight. My old friend that I thought was lost to the past.
"You're awake", said the man.
I darted from the bed. As soon as my feet touched the ground I hissed in pain. I went to the floor. I tensed when the large man came close. With the little strength, I had left I tried getting away. I had cornered myself. My body started shaking.
"Easy, I won't hurt you", he said.
He spoke in a hushed tone. It was gentle and warm. He spoke to me as if he were speaking a spooked animal. I stopped shaking. This man seemed safe enough.
"I'm going to pick you up now. Is that okay?" he asked.
I nodded. He carefully picked me up and place me gently on the bed.
"Why are you being, so kind to me?" I asked.
"You are a scared young girl whose hurt. I couldn't allow you to suffer. It goes against my oath as a healer even though most of my patients are animals. Besides, you remind me daughter. If that ill-tempered horse likes you can't be that bad", he said.
"Is a horse a reliable judge of character?" I asked.
"The most honest creatures I know", said the man.
I didn't like being alone with a man I hardly know.
"You said you had a daughter. Where is she?" I asked.
He frowned.
"My Emiko is in a better place now", he said.
"Sorry, may I ask your name", I said.
"How stupid of me. My name is Tatsuo. And yours?" asked the man.
"Snow", I said.
I tried getting out of bed, but Tatsuo said, "Where do you think you're going? You need your rest, Snow. I'll get you some food".
He went into the kitchen and came back with a plate that had some bread and an apple on it.
"Sorry, I know it's not the best food", said Tatsuo.
"No, I don't mind. I love bread", I said.
"Let me see your feet", he said.
I didn't want to argue. Most my wounds were already treated. His large hands were callused, but his touch was gentle. Once he finished bandaging my feet, he pulled the blanket over me.
"Can you ask what you were running from?" said Tatsuo.
"How do you know I was running?" I asked.
"You general demeanor. From the state of your feet, it must have been bad. So what are you running from", said Tatsuo.
"My past", I said.
"Those scars on your back mean only one thing. You're a slave", said Tatsuo.
"Was", I corrected.
"And how'd you end up here?" he asked.
"I told you already I ran", I said.
I couldn't hold back my tears. Blue sapphires fell from my face. Tatsuo didn't seem to care about my gift he just brushed the sapphire off the bed and tried to comfort me.
"Do you have any family?" he asked.
I nodded.
"That's a start do you know where they are?" asked Tatsuo.
"No", I said.
"Your welcome to stay here until your family finds you", said Tatsuo.
"Why would you want me to stay you don't even know me?" I asked.
"I don't like an empty house. My children are grown and have families of their own", said Tatsuo.
"And your wife?" I asked.
"Passed not too long ago. I'd be grateful for the company", he said.
I know that kind of loneliness. Tatsuo seems to be a kind man he doesn't deserve to be all alone.
"Tatsuo, what do you do?" I asked.
"I'm a horse breeder and blacksmith", he answered.
"Where did you get that black horse?" I asked.
"I bought him from a merchant who sold precious stones", Tatsuo said.
"My Midnight", I said.
"How do you know that horse? He seems to really like you", said Tatsuo.
"We shared a master", I said.
"Call him over here. That grumpy horse never comes when I call it all the other horses do", said Tatsuo.
"Midnight", I called.
After I said that I heard the thundering gallop of Midnight as he came I over to me.
"It's been a long time, Midnight", I said.
Midnight whinnied happily at being called by his real name.
"You can stay in my daughter's room", said Tatsuo.
He led me to a small bedroom. It was painted blue and there was a small twin sized bed. There was a bathroom connected to the bedroom. On the dresser were photos of Tatsuo's family.
"Is this your family?" asked.
"Yes", he said.
I looked down at my dirty clothing I don't want to ruin the sheets of the bed.
"You look about the same size as my daughter you can wear my daughter's clothes", he said.
"I can never thank you enough for helping me, Tatsuo", I said.
"Snow, you don't know how much your helping", he said.
I showered. I walked into the small bedroom and went to the closet. The clothes were very simple. I put on a simple red t-shirt and blue jeans. The only pants Tatsuo's daughter were blue jean or overalls. I would have liked this girl if I had known her. I put my hair up in a ponytail. Then walked into the kitchen where Tatsuo was waiting for me.
"You look like a whole new person", said Tatsuo.
"Thank you", I said.
"You remind me so much of her", he said.
"I do?" I asked.
"Yes, except for the hair", said Tatsuo.
I want to get his mind off of her for a little bit. When I looked around the living room I saw beautiful pictures of his family and his horses.
"Did you take all of these?" I asked.
"Yes. Taking pictures is my hobby", he said.
I yawned.
"Rest", said Tatsuo.
I nodded.
"Goodnight", I said before leaving for my bedroom.
I got into bed. I realized how I'm helping, Tatsuo. He needs someone to care for and I need someone and I need to be taken care of. Until now Kakuzu had been my caretaker. He gave me comfort and love. I wanted that back again. That's if he ever finds me. It was too painful of a thought. I cried silently into my pillow. I miss my family.
Three weeks past since I first met Tatsuo. We've grown close in this short time. He's the closest thing I've ever had to a father. I helped around the house as much as I could to show how grateful I was. Since I've arrived here I haven't suffered through nightmare or flashbacks. I got out of bed and dressed. I went into the barn to feed the horses, while Tatsuo cooked breakfast. I loved the smell of the sweet grain and hay. When I finished my work in the barn, I went into the kitchen. It was a simple breakfast, but none less enjoyable.
"You miss them", said Tatsuo.
"What?"
"You're working harder than usual so I thought it was to take your mind off them", he said.
I nodded.
"Snow, I know you don't like me asking about your family, but is there anything you can tell me", said Tatsuo.
I couldn't reveal much about my family without putting them at risk. I've already caused them enough suffering.
"What do you want to know?" I asked.
"Do you have siblings?" asked Tatsuo.
The closest things I to have siblings are Itachi, Tobi, and Konan. I would protect them with my life. They don't need my protection. Each of them is extremely powerful ninjas.
"I have three siblings. An older sister, an older brother, and a younger brother", I said.
"How big is your family?" he asked.
"Ten if you include me. I hope I'm not worrying them too much", I said.
I left Orochimaru out of my count.
"I bet they are worried sick about you, Snow. Especially your husband you must be one of the most important things in the world to him", said Tatsuo.
I interrupted by coughing on my tea. Did he say, my husband? I'm not even sure where my relationship stands with Kakuzu. We were defiantly more than friends we might be lovers. Yes, he must be my lover since he told me he loves me, but he didn't know I knew that.
"I'm not married", I said.
"Then you're in love", said Tatsuo.
My face went red.
"How do you know?" I asked.
"Besides your blush. The way your eyes sparkle whenever you speak of him. And the way you say his name in your sleep", said Tatsuo.
"What name?" I said.
"Kakuzu is he your lover?", he said.
I nodded.
"He's an idiot for not putting a ring on your finger. Any man would be lucky to have you as their bride", said Tatsuo.
My faced turned pink. It is a nice dream Kakuzu and me getting married having a family, but that would never happen, but I would just be happy spending my life with him. I don't need a wedding or a ring. All I want is to be with him. The day's work was over, so I decided to go to the village.
"Tatsuo, I'm going out to the village", I said.
"Did I say something to upset you?" he asked.
"No, I need to stretch my legs that's all", I said.
"Be careful out there, Snow", said Tatsuo.
"I always am", I said.
He handed me a list.
"Pick these up while you're out", said Tatsuo.
"Sure", I said.
I went to the stables. I slid Midnight's bridle over his head then climbed onto his back. Riding was a new skill for me. In his free time, Tatsuo taught me. He was happy to see Midnight getting some exercise since allowed no one else to ride him. When we got to bounties he stopped. I tried moving him on but he refused.
"Really, we're doing this again", I said.
Midnight nodded. I slid off his back and went to the fence where the bounties were listed. He tried biting the back of my shirt to keep me in place but I was too fast for him. Midnight huffed and stomped his foot angrily.
"You'll have to be faster next time", I said.
Some walkers by stared at me. The entire village thinks I'm odd because of my frequent conversations with Midnight. What can I say he's my dearest and oldest friend. When I tried to get a closer look, he moved in front of him.
"Let me through", I said.
He pinned his ears back and snorted. I pushed past him. I sighed again he wasn't there. I don't know why I even get my hopes up at this point. Midnight pressed his soft muzzle against my cheek.
"Is this why you don't want me coming here? You're fear me being disappointed", I said.
He gave a small sigh. I handed him the apple from my bag. He crunched into it. I touched the paper image of Kakuzu. It read:
Kakuzu S-rank missing-nin. He was from the Village Hidden by Waterfall. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. Only highly experienced bounty hunters should attempt to capture him. He his wanted dead or alive.
I tore down the poster and folded it.
"Now what business does a farm girl have looking at bounties", said the stranger.
He was tall. His features were rouged. He had dark blue hair that hung in his face. There was crescent moon shaped scar on the right side of his face. An eye patch covered his right eye. His uncovered eye was a cold ice blue. He was dressed in black. The forehead protector tied around his neck showed he was a ninja. I didn't know the symbol.
"Little girl, why are you looking these?" he asked.
I didn't answer. This man is dangerous. I have to get away. Midnight came cantering over. He stood by my side. His ears were pinned against his neck. He snorted. The man completely ignored Midnight's presence.
"What's that in your hand?" he asked.
"Nothing", I said as I clenched the paper tightly in my fist.
He grabbed my wrist.
"Let me go!" I warned.
The stranger took the poster from my hand.
"Give it back", I said.
He unfolded the poster. The had yet to release me. He glanced up at me.
"Now what would you want with this?" he asked.
"That's none of your concern", I said.
"Did he cause some crime against you? Or did he kill someone you love? Are you seeking revenge" he asked.
Why so many questions?
"None of your business", I said.
"You're mistaken there, my dear. I'm a bounty hunter, so this is my business", said the man.
"I'M NOT YOUR DEAR!" I growled.
I tried yanking away my arm, but his grip was too strong.
"Give it back", I said.
I kneed him nuts and dropped the paper. I grabbed it. I climbed on Midnight's back and galloped away. I slowed him to a walk when we reached the river. I slid off his back.
"For an old boy, you can sure run", I said.
He huffed.
"I didn't mean anything by that", I said.
I took the poster from my pocket. I tore out the picture of him. My fingers traced over the image. Midnight walked over to where I was sitting. He nudged the paper. I turned it over so he could see.
"This is Kakuzu", I said.
I climbed onto the large horse's back. I still had to go to the market. I bought the stuff on the list and returned home. Midnight trotted off to his field. I put away the groceries. Tatsuo was asleep in his chair. He must have fallen asleep waiting for me.
"Wake up, Tatsuo", I said.
He slowly opened his eyes.
"Good you're back", said Tatsuo.
He yawned and walked to his bedroom. I went to mine. There was presence there
I led him back to his room and then went to my room. When I went into my room it felt like someone was there in the room with me.
"Who's there?" I asked.
Before I had a chance to react a dart was shot into my neck. I collapsed. I pair of large boots came walking toward me. He kneeled down beside me. I couldn't move a muscle. What had he done? Why can't I move?! He moved my hair from my face. His breath smelled of smoke.
"Tatsuo", I called.
There was no answer. I resisted the urge to cry.
"You caretaker is fine. I wouldn't waste my energy killing him. There's no money in it", said the stranger.
My shoulders relaxed. His eye focused on me.
"My sweet girl", he said.
I glared at him. He took the poster from my hand. I was lifted off the ground. I couldn't struggle in his arms.
"What have you done to me?" I asked.
"Don't bother the dart I shot you with suppresses chakra", he said.