The soft sounds of shuffling in the room began lulling Hayami awake. She was grogy but awake enough to reach out in search of Haku. He rarely left her side in the morning and so she was surprised when she felt an empty space. She immediately sat up, rubbing her eyes and looked around the room. A few feet from her was Haku sorting through some items.
"Haku..?" she asked lazily after yawning. Haku was focused and didn't noticed that she had woken up until she called his name.
He looked over his shoulder and sent a sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry if I woke you up. It's still early, you should get some more rest," he told her.
Hayami shook her head silently and crawled the little ways to her companion. It had been almost a week since the battle on the bridge and most of her injuries had healed. Any bruising on her body had become faint and barely bothered her movements anymore.
Once she sat comfortably beside him, she asked, "What are you doing?"
"We're going back with Kakashi's team to the Hidden Leaves today. It's only a matter of time before tracker ninjas hear about Zabuza's death.. I'm going to destroy any of mine or his belongings that aren't neccesary to bring with us."
The items Haku had arranged on the floor seemed innocent enough. An assortment of weapons... A cloth wallet with cash... Haku's broken mask and any large fragments that had broken off.. Maps and other closed papers..
"It looks pretty normal to me," she muttered and watching him continue sorting the items out.
Haku quietly chuckled, "Maybe it looks that way. Some things could be a little incriminating, I would say. I just want to be sure some information doesn't fall into another's hands."
"Is there anything I can do..?" Hayami asked. Haku shook his head in response and told her, "The less you know of this, the better. It's okay, I can handle it all."
"You're certain you saw Gato's men?" Kakashi asked the former mercenary in surprise. "Yes, there's no doubt about it."
Haku went to destroy any 'risky' items alone and came back in time for breakfast. Taking a short-cut back, he came across a small base that was an extension of Gato's main hideout. Haku recognized many of the thugs, including the two whom he used their swords against.
Tazuna also listened in. He sat back in his chair, folded his arms and let out an extended grunt in thought.
"If that lot are still around, they're sure to bring trouble again.. I'll gather some of the men in town and put a stop to whatever they are scheming." Tazuna thanked Haku for the information. Although they ariginally had gotten off on the wrong foot, Haku potentially saved the small town from more misery.
It was after breakfast. Sasuke and Sakura was off to the side helping Tsunami with cleaning up the dishes, Naruto was outside of the house fishing with Inari, and Hayami insisted on helping with doing any laundry from the futons.
Hayami folded the futon matresses and put them away. She collected any bedding in a bundle and took them to wash and dry. She came back inside to do a last walk through of the two rooms that any guests occupied, in case she missed or dropped anything. The room she and Haku used was completely clear with only their bags packed and against the wall.
When she went into Team 7's room, she saw the room was also clear and even checked the closet. She was satisfied and made her way out. In one of her steps, something under her foot caused her to slightly slip and almost fall. Luckily she was able to catch herself and didn't get hurt.
She looked to the floor and saw a shriveled piece of paper. She knelt down to pick it up, seeing now that it was a coupon.
'Ichiraku Ramen' was written at the top of it.
Hayami felt the name was something familiar and tried to remember where she heard of it.
That's right! The blonde genin, Naruto, always talked about his favorite ramen restraunt in his village. At least once a day he would sing under his breath how he couldn't wait to have a bowl after this mission.. Hayami was pretty sure she even heard the boy sleep-talking about it.
'It must be his..'
Since her chore had been taken care of, she looked for the rambunctious pre-teen just outside the house. She walked around the corner, following the voices of him and Inari. Surely enough, the two were chatting while Inari held his fishing pole in his hands.
She didn't want to just jump in to return his coupon, not that she would do that anyways, waiting for an opening in their conversation.
"Um.. Naruto?" her voice piped by Naruto and Inari's hearing. They looked to her direction and blushed.
"Oh! uh," Naruto became flustered, "Hayami, w-what are you doing here?"
"I...I was looking for you, actually." She sat properly towards him.
Naruto could feel his heart skip a beat. His blushing only intensified and he choked on his own breath, unable to utter a single syllable without stuttering.
Inari side-eyed him, 'Real smooth...' The younger boy thought.
Hayami avoided eye contact and brought out the piece of paper she found. She offered it to the genin with both of her hands.
"I think.. This is yours?"
Naruto glanced to her hands and his eyes widened. He asked, alarmed, "That's mine! I-I can't believe I lost it! Thank you so much, Hayamiiii!"
There were tears pouring out of Naruto's eyes like a waterfall. He forgot all his nervousness and tried reaching out to hug the teenage girl in thanks. Inari shot up and tried keeping Naruto from following through with his actions, holding the ninja by the back of his collar.
Hayami also jumped up from being startled. She knew the boy was innocent in intent but sometimes his personality was just... Too much.
She quickly ran back in the house. Her yells attracted Haku to her and she immediately hugged him with her head buried in his shoulder. He was initially startled but relaxed to the familiar touch.
Haku returned the hug, comfortingly rubbing her back. "Wha.. What happened, Hayami?" He looked at the others in the room, asking if they knew what happened. Everyone shrugged or shook their heads.
The door then suddenly opened. "H-Hayamiiiiii... Th-Thank you.. S..O... Much..!"
Naruto's expression was the dictionary definition of ugly crying. His reddened eyes caused his blue orbs to become particularly vibrant, tears still ran down his cheeks, and he frequently sniffled to suck back any snot back into his nostrils. In his hands, holding each side, was his coupon for his favorite bowl of ramen.
The rest of the individuals in the room sweatdropped, now understanding the situation.
Haku couldn't help but hesitantly chuckle and hold his companion closer, shaking his head at the blonde's antics. He figured that Naruto would send Hayami running into his arms sooner or later. As his teammates would atest to, 'no one ever accused him of not having enough energy.'
Since it was almost time to depart to the Hidden Leaves, Haku got his and Hayami's belongings and told Kakashi they'd meet up with his team at the end of the bridge. He took the opportunity to give Hayami a chance to center herself, though he also needed to run one last errand before leaving. He and Hayami wanted to pay respects to Zabuza's grave. On their way, Hayami picked a bundle of wild flowers to leave the fallen shinobi.
When the two kneeling before the grave marker, Haku waited for Hayami to place the flowers at the base of he cross. It was only then that they both silently closed their eyes and said their own personal prayers in their minds.
Haku had pushed aside his sadness for the sake of Hayami and ensuring the safety of Tazuna's family. Now saying goodbye to his master at his resting place, he was at his limit.
All the memories he treasured of his time with Zabuza flooded his thoughts, from that fateful day the swordsman took him off the streets and up to his passing on the bridge.
The fact that someone had seen value in him, when others barely batted an eye at his condition, was already more than he could ask for. He felt like himself again at Zabuza's side and enjoyed living with the same vigor he had once lost. Things were far from perfect but it he still felt lucky for their paths crossing to have taken place all those years ago. Not only did he not have to go another day hungry again or struggle to stay warm under worn clothes, but in their travels he had been able to see so much.
The first time he saw an unfrozen ocean, for example, played over and over in his head. His younger self played with the incoming waves at the shore while Zabuza sat down to rest.
Without Zabuza, none of that would have been possible; He would have easily died from hunger and the cold, had it not been for him.
Haku felt a kind of guilt for letting his master die. From his point of view, he should have been the one to die in place of him. Ideally, he would have sacrificed himself to rid Zabuza of any mortal threats.
But then, what would happen to Hayami?
He also promised her that they'd be together forever.
Haku couldn't even begin to comphrehend the idea of leaving her. He had fallen for her too fast and deeply and there was no possibility of him ever abandoning that love, not even for his master. And that's exactly was where he guilt stemmed from- the fact that his utmost loyalty to the swordsman had been comprimised.
But how?
How could he ever betray the one he loves and someone Haku knew- withthout a doubt- needed him?
She wasn't like Zabuza. If push came to shove, she'd fight but she dreaded spilling blood. Unlike Zabuza, she got no pleasure from the act and even regretted any deaths caused by her hand. Her own mind would be brutally tormenting her if he weren't by her side.
In his eyes, she was just like her namesake; she was beautiful and rare and even if she'd always remain as fragile as she was, he'd give anything to protect her.
Haku knew that even if she became as strong as him or Zabuza, she'd still want and need him. He was addicted to his particular feeling of usefullness as a lover.
Even now, Haku is stunned by the fallen ninja's actions. He still didn't fully understand why he'd die so that he and Hayami would live. Nonetheless, Haku would not let this precious gift of a tangible future with Hayami go to any waste.
Haku hadn't even noticed that a tear had escaped from the outer corner of his eye. He was pulled back into reality when fingers brushed by his cheek and wiped the lone tear away. He looked to his side and saw that Hayami had turned to him with her hand out-reached to the side of his face.
His hand gently wrapped around her wrist as her palm rested on his cheek. His eyes were glossed over from his overwhelming emotions, making it seem like his eyes were a darker tone. Hayami's own set stared into his with concern. She remained silent and looked to him to see what he'd do.
Seeing Haku emotionally vulnerable the way he was- crying- was a foreign sight for her. He was normally so calm and composed and normally acted as the 'rock' for them both. Right now she could feel all his sadness and guilt. She knew he missed Zabuza terribly.
Haku leaned into her touch and closed his eyes while taking slow, deep breaths. He wanted to return to his usual demeanor and was also conscious of the time they had until Kakashi's team would be waiting for them at the bridge. Reopening his eyes, he looked at her softly and with a smile. He took the hand that was on his cheek and weaved his fingers between her's. He then stood and brought Hayami up with him.
He gave one last look to Zabuza's grave marker.
'Rest in peace, Master Zabuza.' He thought before turning to leave with Hayami, her hand in his.
He didn't look back- he didn't need to. What truly mattered now with his future with the one beside him, though he'd always be grateful for his former master's actions and would continue to wish him peace in the afterlife.
Their journey came to an end without any interuptions and it was only a matter of time before the Hidden Leaf's entrance gates came into view.
Naruto wanted the mission to 'officially' come to an end, eager he could get the rewarding meal he so desprately craved while away. Kakashi held him back, reminding him that they still had to report to the Hokage.
The Team greeted Kotestu and Izumo at the entrance. They eyed the newcomers, already aware that Kakashi's squad would be bringing two teenagers with them. Haku presented the scroll they needed to pass he gates. The guards stamped just under the message and gave it back to Haku.
It was the first time that Hayami was in such a big village. As the group walked down the street to the Hokage's office, there was so many noises, sights and smells to take it. It was almost overwhelming. She walked as close as she could with Haku while looking around in awe. Haku had only traveled through the Land of Fire briefly while with Zabuza and never visited any of it's major villages. The atmosphere was light and pleasant, very different compared to the places he and Zabuza would travel to for work.
Haku and Hayami stood off to the side as Team 7 gave their report on their mission. Seated at the long, stretched out table in front of them was the Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi.
When it came time for the two descendants of the Yuki clan to present themselves, Hayami could hardly move on her own and clung to Haku. The situation was just too tense for her to process as one normally would.
Haku tried coaxing her with his discreet touch, not wanting to be rude to the man who so graciously allowed them into the village. He certainly didn't have to therefore Haku was incredibly grateful. The older teen quietly exhaled, seeing that there was no chance of Hayami acting "presentable" before the Hokage. She was attached to his side with her arms around his torso, avoiding everyone's gaze. Haku submitted himself to keep her as comfortable as he could. He rested a hand on her back but had his attention on the village official.
The Hokage read off of a scroll that was in front of him, "From the information Kakashi sent in, you must be Haku." The doe eyed teen responded, "Yes, Lord Hokage."
The elderly man then looked towards the girl beside Haku, "And the young lady next to you must be Hayami."
Hayami hesitantly nodded, not looking at the Hokage or letting go of Haku. Her companion gave a light-hearted giggle and answered in her stead.
"She is. Please forgive her Lord Hokage, she's very shy and is not used to the outside world as of yet."
Hiruzen nodded and the edges of his mouth slightly curled. He replied, "That's quite alright. You both must have endured many hardships, so I don't take it to heart."
Haku closed his eyes and bowed his head in thanks as low as he could with Hayami next to him.
It was still relatively early and the light was still out by the time the group finished their businesses with the Hokage.
Haku had taken off his Mist headband prior to arriving in the village and was given a Leaf headband by the Hokage. He was assigned chunin rank and would be up for jonin promotion if all went well for the next six months. Another condition to his six month probation was that he could only fulfill missions that would be completed in the same day.
Things were still uncertain for Hayami. She clearly needed time to adjust before considering if she wanted to enter the ranks of the ninja in the village. In the meantime, the two ice users and Team 7 were given a week off to recover from the long mission. The teens were given housing accommodations and a baseline weekly allowance, being minors and all.
Kakashi led to way to bring Haku and Hayami to the house they'd be using. Because their arrival was rather sudden, not many options were available of the two were to stay together. The Hokage offered up a property that belonged to his clan and was hardly used by his family anymore. It was a traditional-styled house from the outside, a short walk's away from the village center and surrounded by forest. The house had a generous amount of space for two people: Three bedrooms, a toilet room and separated shower room, a kitchen and living room. Two of the rooms were filled to he brim with storage and would have to be cleaned out later. Haku and Hayami were given permission to use anything in the house and the surrounding property that came with it.
The house wasn't nearly as dusty as what was anticipated. Nonetheless, Hayami did what she could to clean up while Haku was directed to the store to pick up something to eat. The real settling-in would begin the next day.
The two ice users ate, bathed and began getting comfortable for the evening. The day was exhausting between the travel and taking in everything that was foreign. The fatigue they felt and tried masking through the the day became more apparent, since they were now able to relax in the safety of a home.
Hayami felt on-edge after all the changes throughout the day. She felt compelled to do something- anything- to calm herself. Twiddling with her fingers quickly progressed into pacing, familiarizing herself with she and Haku's housing. She was hardly conciously in the moment while running her fingertips against the walls and pieces of furniture, too immersed in her own thoughts.
Haku came up from their room and took notice of her nervous behavior. Her eyes held a kind of haziness that caused him to become worried for her mental state.
His footsteps were quiet as he came up behind her. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her back to his chest. Hayami did not notice him and gasped at the sudden pull at her attention. She muttered his name and turned her head enough to peer into his warmly colored orbs out the corner of her eye.
Haku's head was directly beside her's. As he spoke, the surface of his lips brushed by the skin of her ear.
"What is troubling you?" He asked her softly.
"Just thinking.." Hayami answered back in an identical tone.
Haku hummed for a moment before urging the both of them to the couch. He held Hayami close to him with her legs over his lap. The side of her head nuzzled into his shoulder. "What about?"
"Everything.. My whole life," Hayami stated and started playing with the ends of Haku's black locks.
"That's quite a lot to have on your mind."
Hayami gently nodded and continued speaking, "Things seemed to move so slowly for me... And now, everything is moving so quickly. To be honest, I feel a bit nervous for the future."
Haku silently exhaled after listening to her. "I see now. I can understand that feeling as well, although I've already learned how to handle that apprehension at this point."
The girl in his arms replied with a mumble and stopped playing with his hair. She opted for resting her own arms around him, getting closer to breath in his natural scent. Hayami replayed their short conversation, both Haku's and her own words, and let her mind drift again. The peace she felt being with him forced her to think to herself silently again.
In refering to their lives up until then, she mentally came upon wondering about his past. She had wondered about it since he revealed it while they were questioned by Kakashi. The image she had of someone so kind and gentle living in the streets was a haunting one. He hadn't brought it up since then and Hayami didn't ask him any further about his past either. She trusted that Haku would tell her when he felt like speaking about it again. Even so, she couldn't deny that she was curious and wanted to know more. Neither of them told the other all that much about their histories in general.
"Do you wonder about it?" Haku broke the silence. "What?" Hayami looked to him in confusion.
"My past. Since speaking to Kakashi, you haven't asked any more about it."
Hayami's eyes widened in brief surprise. She then sent him a sympatheic smile, "Sometimes I'm sure you can read minds or something."
Haku playfully lifted an eyebrow and curled the edges of his lips. "No, I cannot," he replied and leaned to peck her forehead. "Well?"
Her jewel-like orbs quickly glanced away for a moment and she unconciously tightened her grip on his clothes.
"I am curious but.. I didn't want to pry. I figured you would tell me more when you felt it was right."
Haku gently smiled and took a breath. One of the things he loved about Hayami was the amount of consideration she'd have for him. He felt like it was unnecessary sometimes, but it was an endearing fact nonetheless.
"I'm not very fond of my past," Haku admitted. "However, it still happened and it'll forever be apart of me, just as your past is for you. I didn't speak anymore of it because I didn't want any of it to upset you. But you told me a piece of your's and I feel like it's unfair to keep mine from you. So if it's you that is asking, I don't mind telling you." He smiled at her when he stopped speaking.
Hayami was a little flustered by his honesty and she was nervous to ask anything, even with his permission. In her years as a slave, it was a kind of 'taboo' to ask another of their past unless they chose to reveal anything themselves. That was because of the civil wars and the hunts for anyone possessing a kekkei genkai. She knew that things were not like that now but the habit still remained in her mind.
"W-Where.." She tried but was hesitant to complete her question. Haku looked to her tenderly and lowly hummed to encourage her.
"Where.. Are you from?" She finally was able to mumble out in a hushed tone.
He shifted her in his arms to a more comfortable angle before speaking.
"I remember mentioning I was from the Land of Water, the same as you, but I was born and spent most of my childhood in a very poor and small village. Snow fell on my homeland year-round. Until meeting Zabuza, I hadn't actually seen any other season."
Hayami softly gasped. It got Haku's attention and he asked what was wrong. She shook her head and then said, "Snow year-round... You too?"
Haku tilted his head. "Too?" He had caught onto her wording.
Hayami nodded and told him, without breaking eye contact, "I'm from a place like that too." The statement made him expression softened and he acknowledged her words before continuing. Maybe sharing such painful memories with each other wasn't so horrible after all.
AN: I'm sorry but I just cannot write too much about Haku's past at once before bawling my eyes out like the dweeb that I am, when it comes to Haku anyways. I was going to.. But I kid you not, my vision started getting blurry from my eyes watering up... So we'll have to do this revelation a bit more slowly for my own sake and sanity. Good thing this story is not going to be a short one.