Chapter Eight: To Become a Chūnin?
Ino shyly sat down beside the Uchiha. "Ummm, I figured that you might be hungry." She held out a small bento. "It's not much… but you can have some."
Sasuke raised an eyebrow at the Yamanaka. It was true that he was hungry—he had lost his backpack… but while he could be a jerk at times, even he could have some manners. It wouldn't be right to eat Ino's lunch. It wouldn't be fair either.
"I'm fine."
The kunoichi pursed her lips. "You don't have a backpack."
"Tch…"
"It's fine," Ino insisted. "I still have bentos for the next two days. I'll be fine."
The Uchiha huffed, still not wanting to take the offer despite the soft grumbles from his stomach—he hoped the Yamanaka didn't notice…
"Yo, Ino, I need your advice on this!"
The kunoichi reddened slightly. "I-I'm coming!"
And Sasuke was finally alone… again. But when he glanced over, he saw that Ino had left the bento behind. Seems like she wasn't going to let him say no.
He couldn't be ungrateful, but she better not expect him to actually thank her for it! He still had his own pride to think about. If word got out to Sakura that he had accepted a bento from Ino… things could get ugly quick.
Hopefully, the kunoichi would have sense not to mention anything about this to his pink-haired teammate. But knowing their rivalry, he knew that wasn't really a possibility. Or was it?
He glanced over at the blonde kunoichi who was looking over Shikamaru's shoulder and making some sort of comment on his makeshift strategy map. She looked rather focused on what the shadow-user was saying, frowning slightly as she made corrections or asked a question. Ino seemed to have forgotten all about him—not that he was complaining! It was just… surprising.
But then again, maybe he shouldn't be so surprised at her behavior. While he might not have seen it, he had heard Shikamaru and Chōji mention before how Team 10 had great teamwork. There were no complaints from either shinobi on Ino. And well, he had recently overheard some civilians talking about Team 10. With the battle rounds coming up for the final part of the Chūnin Exams, some of the civilians likes to bet on the teams they thought would do well. Team 10 was often mentioned—not that Sasuke was really paying that much mind. It was really odd that he remembered this at all!
Perhaps he was slightly jealous of their teamwork? After all, his team had a pretty rocky start. They were definitely improving on building their teamwork, but nowhere as solid as Team 10. Ino had a different air about her than Sakura, and well, she had a strong bloodline. Not that he would hold that against Sakura—at least, not anymore (after all, Emiko respected Sakura… he could do the same though not to the same extent), but Ino had abilities that Sakura could only wish for.
But why was he even thinking about those two girls? This was a terrible development… Not only was he thinking strange thoughts, he was also truly missing the stupid blonde that was his teammate!
Emiko was still struggling a bit in the Hatake's grip, but at least she wasn't shouting at the retreating Sannin anymore.
"You can let me go now," she grumbled.
The jōnin raised an eyebrow and released her.
The Uchiha busied herself with dusting herself off and tidying up her hair, pretending as if she hadn't caused such a scene only a few minutes ago.
Kakashi hummed softly to himself in amusement. Well, if anything, Emiko would keep him entertained while Team 7 was busy with the exams.
"I hope things have been settled?"
The jōnin immediately stood at attention and gave a respectful bow. "Hokage-sama."
Emiko reddened and also bowed.
The Hokage glanced between the two after side-eyeing her assistant. "Where's Orochimaru?"
Shizune coughed awkwardly. "He went back to the inn he is staying at."
Emiko shot her a grateful look. No need to mention what had just happened a few minutes ago…
The Hokage sighed, but really, she didn't want to talk to him again. "I see."
The Hatake cleared his throat. Now that the Uchiha was finally calm and the Otokage was long gone… perhaps he and the Hokage could get to the bottom of things.
"So what exactly happened?"
Emiko scrunched up her face before facing the jōnin. "You want to know everything?"
The Hokage gave her an apologetic look. "It would certainly clear up a few things…"
And hopefully prevent a new stack of paperwork from appearing on her desk!
A sigh escaped the Uchiha's lips. Well, she should have seen this one coming. The snake of a Sannin was the leader of his own village… she would have a lot of explaining to do about her actions. Might as well come clean and tell them what had actually happened (well minus that).
"He asked me for have tea with him," she started slowly.
Flashback
"What exactly does Otoga 'offer'?" Emiko asked, side-eyeing Orochimaru suspiciously. "And what makes you think that your 'offer' will be worth it for me?"
The Sannin arched his eyebrow gracefully (far too gracefully in Emiko's opinion…). "We are more open in Otoga. I'm sure you have found that Konoha has many forbidden scrolls." He paused, glancing over at her as if expecting a response.
The Uchiha shrugged. There did seem to be many scrolls and books that were forbidden, but she wasn't really bothered by that. Those things were forbidden for a reason. Why dig into something that was none of her business? True, she might be curious, but she wasn't dumb. Did this man really think she would take such risks?
"You'll find it easier to find your strengths and weaknesses with the knowledge in Otoga," Orochimaru continued. "And… there are ways to enhance one's abilities."
That sneaky—or rather snakey—look in his eyes made Emiko uneasy. And just her luck… the waitress was nowhere to be seen!
"I'm perfectly happy with my current status."
"Are you?"
The Uchiha hesitated. It wasn't a lie… not exactly. She was content with her current status—Chūnin Exams were not for her at this stage. But she couldn't deny there was a desire to have a better grasp of things. Yes, she was improving. Yes, she was remembering. But these things all took so much time!
Orochimaru's offer was slightly tempting… to be able to easily understand things. To know what her strengths and weaknesses were right off the bat instead of through trial and error, that would be nice. To actually be of use to Team 7 and not just a bystander or freeloader.
But looking back into his snakey eyes… she knew the hard way was better.
The Sannin leaned over and was now resting his arm around her shoulders. "Surely you can see that Konoha will always hold back your true potential."
The Uchiha tried not to shudder at his touch. "I am fine where I am… I told you, I'm perfectly happy here."
Their eyes met briefly and before she could prevent herself, her sharingan activated—much to the Orochimaru's pleasure. He had been hoping to trigger it. Who knew it would be so easy?
The color was fascinating. Not the bright red he had been expecting. And those tomoes! It was all so fascinating. Now, to take a closer look—
Emiko blinked quickly, desperately trying to deactivate her sharingan. No easy task… but there was no way she wanted to see anything about Orochimaru. Nope-ity nope nope. She did not want to know anything more than what she had gathered from the library and rumors.
She avoided the Sannin's eyes as she struggled to turn her sharingan off. But those eyes… they always had a mind of their own (at least that's what it felt like!). That magnetic-like pull was absolutely determined to force her to look into his eyes. But that wasn't going to happen!
After some more rapid blinking, she was finally able to overpower that pull and force her sharingan to deactivate—much to Orochimaru's displeasure. However, he couldn't be too disappointed. He had gotten a glimpse to satisfy him for now.
Though, right now, it was more important to convince the Uchiha to join him. She was being more difficult than he had anticipated… Perhaps Uchiha women were more stubborn than the average woman (not like he knew any other women well outside of Tsunade…)?
"Are you so sure?" The man leaned closer to her. "Don't you wish to know more about your family and heritage?"
Emiko furrowed her brows. Who wouldn't want to know more about their family? It was true that those in Konoha didn't speak much of the Uchiha Clan (especially Sasuke…). Not to mention her memories didn't exactly give her a full background either. And most of the records were prohibited. How exactly did this man have knowledge of them (or at least that what he seemed to be hinting that he had access to such things)?
"How would you know anything?" she asked suspiciously. "You're not an Uchiha."
"I have my ways."
Yes, he had that scroll after all (and there was that Uchiha who had inspired his desire to learn more about the sharingan—what was his name again?—owed him one since Otoga granted sanctuary to missing-nin).
The female Uchiha scrunched up her face, trying to move away from the Sannin. "I don't think I want to know what or how you know…"
Orochimaru had to hold back his frustration. This girl was not being very pliable… very well. He had other ways to control her to his will. He had hoped she would have come willingly. It would have made things so much easier. Oh well, this could make things more interesting anyways.
He tightened his grip on the Uchiha's shoulder, forcing her to move closer to him. Emiko couldn't hold herself back when she saw his tongue leering closer and closer to her face (why was it so long?!). He had his teeth bared as if ready to bite her.
If she had been really thinking about the situation, she probably could have used a jutsu or something to attack—or even better escape—but she wasn't thinking. Instead, she used her natural weapons.
The Uchiha whirled round, clawing angrily at the Sannin's face. He obviously hadn't expected an attack, but he was more prepared to fight than she was. He grabbed the smaller kunoichi tightly, preparing to finally get her where he wanted her when she did the unexpected.
The female Uchiha bit him. The audacity! Biting was his thing!
He would have finished things then and there if the ANBU hadn't appeared just in time, separating him from the screaming Uchiha. He couldn't quite catch what she was saying, but whatever it was, it was directed towards him rather angrily. She seriously had quite the spunk.
Which made her all the more fascinating. He would get her somehow. Now just wasn't the time.
End Flashback
Emiko chewed her lips nervously. "Yeah… that's basically what happened."
The Hokage frowned. This wasn't good development. Apparently, her old teammate had something he wanted from the Uchiha. She would have to double the guard on Emiko—no, double the guard on Sasuke too, Orochimaru wouldn't just stop at getting Emiko now, would he? Better safe than sorry.
What a headache… but she wasn't about to let down her defenses. It was dangerous when someone who knew you well was your enemy. She should have done something sooner, but at least for the moment, the female Uchiha was safe.
"Kakashi, you and Emiko can go," she excused them tiredly. She felt a headache and a pile of paperwork coming on…
The jōnin pursed his lips. He could tell that there was more the Hokage wanted to say… but that was for a later time. Perhaps he'd talk to Emiko about it once they left Hokage Tower (nah, probably not).
"Ah, one moment, Kakashi." The Hokage motioned for the Hatake to stay behind.
The female Uchiha raised an eyebrow as she slipped out of the office. The adults had things to say that weren't for her ears (as usual…).
"Keep a close eye on her and Sasuke. I don't want Orochimaru or any Otoga-nin anywhere near them if we can help it. I don't know what he wants, but he isn't going to get it." She frowned. "I'm not losing the last Uchiha to the likes of him."
Naruto stared hard at Sakura. "That?"
The kunoichi nodded seriously. "You said that you were going to pack it, didn't you?"
"Well yeah but—"
"Then get it out. We need it."
The Uzumaki wanted to ask 'why,' but his sore neck told him it was better not to irk the pink-haired kunoichi again. Instead, he took off his backpack and started digging around for the desired object. He just hoped Sakura wasn't too impatient… He may or may not have overpacked, so finding that wouldn't exactly be easy. Come to think of it… why had he packed it? Something like this wasn't exactly useful. At least, to others. He found it useful, so why did Sakura suddenly think it would be needed?
"You got it?" She looked at him expectantly.
Naruto nodded.
"Good… keep it handy. We're going to use it tonight."
"Tonight?!"
It took all of him from asking why did she ask for him to take it out now if they weren't even going to use it now?! He so desperately wanted to… but he bit his tongue. Sakura's temper was not one to be messed with. He'd just have to keep his question to himself and wait for the answer… tonight.
"Come on." The kunoichi started walking again. "We need to cover some more distance before we break camp."
The blonde pursed his lips as he gathered his things back together, being sure to keep that close as he followed behind Sakura.
"How far do you think we should go for?"
Now that was a question that shouldn't cause any problems, right?
"Enough," was her short reply.
And well, there was no arguing with that. After all, she was the one with the plan, not him. He'd just have to trust her judgment. That's what teammates do, right? They trusted each other. Hopefully, Sasuke was somewhere out there trusting them too.
To be honest, he had been initially worried. Watching the interaction between the two had made him concerned. And he didn't like having to be concerned! In fact, this was all too troublesome. But if he was going to be in this mess, he might as well try to do decently.
Still, Ino had been a concern. While he was lazy, that didn't mean he was utterly unobservant. He wasn't blind to the rivalry among the girls when it came to Sasuke. Though, he did notice that the rivalry had died down a bit. Well, at least, it died down a bit between Sakura and Ino. However! That did not mean Ino had completely dropped it. He knew how stubborn his teammate could be. So having Sasuke in tow had made him a little worried. What if Ino lost her head and just gaga-ed over the Uchiha? What if Sasuke manipulated her into handing over their scroll?
What if, what if, what if?! It was a headache that he didn't want to deal with, but he had to put it all in his calculations whether he wanted to or not.
Yet… strangely enough, the Yamanaka hadn't pulled anything over the past two days. Oh, she had shared her bentos (don't think he didn't see that, Ino!). And she had chatted several times with Sasuke alone. But other than that, she had been surprisingly hands-off. And Shikamaru had kept a very close eye on the two. There was no way he was letting the Uchiha get his hands on their scroll: ally or not!
If anything, the shadow user was thrilled when Sasuke was finally reunited with his team. Though trust Naruto to make a spectacle of things… He couldn't complain though. If it weren't for that, they wouldn't have been able to return Sasuke to Team 7.
Though, he couldn't deny his feelings of curiosity at the state of the Uzumaki and Haruno. They both look liked they had stood right in front of an explosion. If the two hadn't at least wiped the soot from their faces and hitai-ate, he wouldn't have recognized them.
"Sorry for being late, Sasuke," Naruto apologized sheepishly, dusting off some ashes from his hair. "We were going to try it last night, but Sakura decided today would be better."
Sakura cleared her throat, glancing at Naruto then warily at Team 10. She hadn't expected Sasuke to be with others… even if they were from Konoha, they couldn't exactly just trust the others—not in this sort of situation.
Sasuke snorted softly. "It's okay. They're allies."
"Allies?" the blonde asked, looking rather confused while the pink-haired kunoichi looked relieved.
"Ah well… thank you for helping Sasuke," Sakura murmured politely.
Shikamaru merely shrugged. There were other things to worry about.
Now that Sasuke was back with his team, things could get complicated. And well, they were at the very edge of the center of the forest. They would have already gone towards the center if it hadn't been for the series of explosions that had suddenly gone off, putting everyone on their guard.
It ended up being a somewhat elaborate plan of Sakura's to locate Sasuke and distract the other teams. How exactly Sakura and Naruto managed to do it all was beyond Sasuke—though inwardly, he was impressed and just grateful to have his teammates back. He would, however, have to ask what exactly they had done… Sakura had an odd expression on her face. Something was up.
"So what are your plans?" the Haruno asked, turning to face the Nara.
Shikamaru was checking out the status of the other teams. The team from Suna had already made it to the center of the forest (for some time too from the looks of it) and had taken out Team 8 and the team from Ame while the other teams seemed to be still distracted by the small explosions that were still going off.
If his team wasn't careful, they could be next. However, he still had an alliance with Sasuke, right? The Uchiha hadn't forgotten that, had he? They couldn't afford attacking each other right now. Both teams needed each other if they wanted to keep the three Sand genin from taking their scrolls (since apparently the other two teams didn't have the one Suna was missing).
He glanced over at Sakura. "You're still our ally?"
"Of course!" She frowned, crossing her arms some. "Besides, you're going to need us."
The shadow user raised an eyebrow as the pink-haired kunoichi motioned for him to come closer. His eyes widened ever so slightly as she whispered something in his ear.
"Fine… but I've got an idea too," he agreed grudgingly. "If we do this right, it'll work."
Emiko didn't know whether to be happy or annoyed to be with the jōnin so much. She had been lonely. But still… things were a little more or less awkward between the two. There was still a slight tension between the two thanks to her little *ahem* incident several days previous—that and the Orochimaru incident two days previous…
She didn't think she could last much longer if things stayed this way… There had to be a way to break the ice so to speak.
"Ummm… Hatake-san?"
"Hmmm?"
"Ah well… I was um… wondering," she started slowly. Things were getting awkward before she had really gotten started on making it unawkward! "Could you… could we… um maybe ah… take a walk in the park?"
The jōnin raised an eyebrow then shrugged. What choice did he have? The Hokage wanted him to keep a closer eye on her—and well, there was that incident too—and a walk didn't sound half bad. He would have been at a loss if she wanted to go shopping or something like that.
"Maaaa… I suppose we could."
Emiko brightened at his response. "Great! Do you um have a favorite path?"
Lame… so lame! But she had to continue the conversation somehow. She didn't want things to fall into silence again no matter how awkward it might get.
Kakashi shrugged again as the two made their ways toward the park. "Not really, but there is one that I usually take."
"The quickest or the slowest?" the Uchiha asked somewhat mischievously.
After all, it was commonly known how the jōnin was constantly late (though she knew the reason wasn't tardiness…).
He cleared his throat. "Both depending on how you go about it."
Emiko nodded. "Let's take the slow one then. We have the time, don't we?"
Kakashi shrugged again. "Maaaa…"
The kunoichi squinted at him. "Is that the best response you got?" She cleared her throat and gave an exaggerated and somewhat scratchy "Maaaaaaaaaa!"
His lips twitched slightly in amusement. "Are you… mocking me?"
Emiko side-eyed him, deciding conversation might be best put off for the time being. "Maybe."
The Hatake watched her walk on ahead with an amused expression. She was certainly full of surprises… and unfortunately, she was just as mischievous as his students. But at least she was older which meant her maturity level was higher?
Then again… he was reminded of the incident a few days ago with the Snake Sannin. She had certainly not been mature in that instance (and no, he was not laughing at the memory!).
He'd have to be wary of any pranks from her. She was definitely smarter than Naruto. But why was he even thinking of that? It wasn't like she was actually a part of Team 7 (at least not according to paperwork…). He wouldn't be stuck with her forever, now would he?
Surely, the Hokage would find a suitable team for her or something eventually. Yes, he could help with her sharingan and keep an eye on her as needed, but that didn't mean he needed to be so close to her.
He found himself studying the female Uchiha much more than he would like. Just watching her as she took in the sights of the park. She seemed like most girls who enjoyed the beauty of nature—not that he would really know about such things…
Emiko had caught a falling cherry blossom and seemed to be admiring it. Ah yes, now she was placing it in her hair. He had always wondered why girls did that…
Overall, she amused him. That was it. She was different from the Uchiha he had ever known. So naturally… he would be somewhat curious. That was all it was. He wasn't forming any attachments of any sort. Not him. He was just—
His thoughts were interrupted as he spotted Kurenai approaching Emiko. She seemed to be eagerly sharing news with the younger kunoichi.
"Hatake-san!" the Uchiha called out, motioning for him to join the two.
The jōnin came over at a casual pace. "What is it?"
"The exams seem to be wrapping up," Kurenai explained.
"And Yūhi-san was letting us know in case we wanted to meet with them as soon as they finished," Emiko added.
Kakashi blinked. "They're that close already?"
The other jōnin-sensei raised an eyebrow. "It is a three-day test. Surely, you didn't think they would finish it at midnight tonight?"
The Hatake raised an eyebrow. "Maaaa… I just thought they would take a little longer."
"Have more faith in our teams," Kurenai huffed softly. "Will you be joining us?"
Kakashi nodded. After all, he had another Uchiha to keep an eye on.
It was odd but most definitely a pleasant surprise to see both their jōnin-sensei and Emiko waiting for them outside the gates of Forest of Death. After all, neither had been there when they had completed the first part of the exams. But then… they didn't almost die in the written test (at least if you didn't count Naruto's opinion on such things).
The female Uchiha's eyes lit up when she spotted them. She left the jōnin to greet them and hover over them like a mother-hen. Sasuke hoped he didn't look as awful as he felt… but judging on how Naruto and Sakura looked, he knew that he probably didn't come out completely unscathed—but at least he wasn't covered in soot.
"Are you three okay? What happened?" Emiko asked worriedly, inspecting their various cuts and bruises—that and trying to wipe away the soot from their faces.
"Ah you know, nothing," Naruto tried to laugh it off.
"Nothing?" Sakura huffed. "I wouldn't call all that happened 'nothing.'" She did, however, crack a small smile. "We passed, Emiko-san."
"That's good, but are you all okay?" the older genin asked as she gently poked and prodded them. "You all should see a nurse or something."
"Actually…" the pink-haired kunoichi blushed. "We were thinking about heading to the bathing house with the other teams. It would be nice to get clean and relax our sore muscles."
"Oh…"
"We were hoping you'd join us," Sakura added. The other girls hadn't minded the suggestion, and most of them were actually curious to know the female Uchiha better. After all, Emiko hadn't really expanded her inner circle outside of Kakashi and Team 7. This would be a good time for her to get to know the other kunoichi.
The female Uchiha hesitated. "I don't want to intrude…"
"Nonsense!" the younger kunoichi assured, taking the older by the arm. "You would be a part of the group."
Emiko glanced over at Kakashi. He was talking with the boys, learning more about why exactly two of his students were rather sooty-looking. Naruto's story—er explanation—wasn't quite believable. Or rather… it wasn't very clear. All Kakashi got out of it was something about explosions, swiping a scroll, and shadow bombs? Yes… he would have to get a better explanation from either Sasuke or Sakura later.
Perhaps it wouldn't be a bad idea… It would be nice to be around girls. She gave Sakura a slight nod. Though, she still felt a little nervous about joining the younger kunoichi. She didn't really know them as well as she did Sakura.
However, the pink-haired kunoichi wasn't about to let her refuse now that she had agreed.
The bathing house didn't seem too busy thankfully. Sasuke and Naruto had already joined the boys, and Sakura was introducing Emiko to the others—all of whom were eager to meet her, but were doing their best to respect her space. It was difficult since they had never known a female Uchiha. They had been ever so curious about her ever since Sakura had announced that Emiko was officially a Team 7 member (at least, in her mind and her teammate's mind, there was still paperwork on that…).
As the girls made their way to the women's side of the bathing house, Emiko found herself getting acquainted with Hinata and Tenten—Sakura was eagerly discussing something with Ino as the two entered the bath ahead of the others.
"So what exactly happened with you and Sasuke?" Sakura asked curiously.
Ino reddened. "Ah about that…"
The pink-haired kunoichi raised an eyebrow, as she scrubbed her face. "Surely, you're not suggesting that I'd get jealous?"
"N-no! Of course not."
Sakura laughed softly. "No need to be so tense. We made a promise about this, remember?"
The Yamanaka just sunk deeper into the bath, hoping the heat of the water would excuse her reddening cheeks.
"Are you going to tell me?"
"Nothing happened," the blonde answered hastily. "We just were allies for the two days until we found you."
The pink-haired kunoichi gave her a rather creepy grin. "Of course. Nothing happened."
Ino gulped nervously. "What about you? How was it with being stuck with Naruto for two days?"
Sakura pursed her lips thoughtfully. "It was… different," she started slowly.
The blonde smirked. Now this was a conversation she could steer. "Different, hmmm?"
Oooo! Was the pink-haired kunoichi blushing?!
"He wasn't annoying? Hard to get along with? Not focused?" she pressed.
"Naruto was fine!"
Ino grinned. "Oooo defensive, aren't we?"
"No!" Sakura was definitely blushing. "He's not like that is all. He's a good teammate like Sasuke. There's nothing more to say."
"You sure?"
"Positive!" the pink-haired kunoichi insisted, scrubbing herself a little harder. "Anyways… I hope Emiko-san is getting to know the others."
Ino glanced over at the other kunoichi on the opposite side of the bath. "Looks likes it. Even Hinata seemed to be joining in."
Sakura nodded thoughtfully. Hinata was always shy around others, much around the boys, but she had been making progress slowly but surely. And well, she thought Emiko and Hinata would hit off well. The female Uchiha was shy in her own right, and then Tenten could balance things out.
At the moment, it looked like Tenten was explaining one of her latest ninja tools.
"It's about this big, and very nifty for ranged battle. I got a really good deal on it." Tenten frowned slightly. "Unfortunately, I didn't get to use it in the exams… but I'll have to show it to you sometime, Emiko-san!"
The Uchiha nodded. "That'd be nice."
"Tenten has a quite the collection," Hinata added shyly. "If you're interested in weapons, she is definitely the kunoichi to turn to."
The kunoichi beamed at Hinata's praise. "Yes, don't hesitate to ask me if you want to know anything."
Emiko smiled at the two kunoichi. "I might have to take up your offer."
"That'd be great!" Tenten grinned, though it faded somewhat. "Since Hinata and I didn't make it to the final rounds… we have plenty of time to spare if you want to join us."
The older kunoichi felt a twinge of pain for the younger girls. It had to be hard to not be able to continue in the exams… if spending some time could help ease the pain for them, she certainly wouldn't hesitate to do so. Besides, it would be nice to get to know them better (and not be so close to Kakashi).
"I'd like that… I'd like that a lot."
While Team 7 focused on some more solo training for the upcoming and final exam, Emiko found herself spending time with Hinata and Tenten. The other two kunoichi were no longer busy with the exams and had plenty of time to spare as time drew near for the finals.
It was nice spending time with the younger girls. Having to be with Kakashi 24/7 was just awkward at times. While she was sad that they were no longer participating in the exams, she was grateful to have their company since they were free from such things. She was learning more about the village from a different perspective. They knew more about the things textbooks couldn't answer and things she wouldn't dare ask the Hatake. She could almost say she felt like one of them—almost…
The three had just finished touring the parks when the subject of the Chūnin Exams were brought up. The finals were going to be in just a few days.
"Will you be watching the final matches?" Tenten asked curiously.
The older kunoichi shrugged. "I suppose I will… what are they like?"
Hinata pursed her lips. "Ah… well… they are quite intense."
"Intense?" Emiko raised an eyebrow.
"Ah well, they have the genin face off each other in a sort of one-on-one battle."
Tenten nodded. "It's a way to really showcase one's abilities. I was hoping to show off my weapons…"
The Uchiha shot her an apologetic look.
"It's fine," the younger kunoichi assured. "I'll do better in the next exams."
Hinata nodded in agreement. "We all will. You as well… right, Emiko-san?"
"Um… yes, I think? I'm not sure."
"Nonsense!" Tenten smiled up at the older kunoichi. "You'll definitely be in them then. I'm sure the Hokage will have a team set up for you."
Emiko wasn't so sure on that… but she supposed it was possible. She certainly could try being more optimistic about the future.
There was a sort of tenseness in the air as it got closer and closer to the final round of the exams. The participants were getting rather jittery with nervousness and excitement. Team 7 seemed to be on edge… And well, even Emiko was feeling it. The whole village seemed to be in a buzz.
Before entering the arena, Emiko spotted the Hokage. She didn't look very thrilled… but then again, Emiko wouldn't be either if she were in her shoes. Politics were never fun. She might not be too familiar with the politics of Konoha… but she could tell things were a bit tight between Leaf and some of the other villages—specifically Sand and Sound. Not that she blamed the Hokage for not liking Sound. She certainly didn't like the leader of the village. What a slimy no good snake!
"So… why do they have Chūnin Exams together?" she wondered, taking a seat beside Kakashi.
Watching this stage of the Chūnin Exams seemed to be quite popular. There were so many people in the audience. It made her, once again, very grateful that she wasn't participating… She just knew she'd do something embarrassing in front of all these people. She was very happy to just be sitting amongst the jōnin-sensei to observe and watch. But she wasn't there to just watch like the rest of the audience. She really needed to focus because next year… that could be her.
These exams were also little scarier than she had anticipated. Though, she really should have been expecting it after the last part—Team 7 had looked pretty beat up after their excursion in the Forest of the Death. That and Tenten and Hinata had briefed her a little on what to expect. They had told her how the students would be pitted against each other to fight and showcase their various skills as a shinobi or kunoichi. But really! It got a little violent at times… she hoped those teens weren't too terribly injured.
The fights were not friendly ones that was for sure—and these were just the preliminary rounds! The genin from Suna in particular were rather vicious, but she couldn't take her eyes off their fights. The one called Gaara caught her attention. There was a strange aura about him. Or maybe that was just all the sand surrounding him? There was something about him… she had been watching him ever since she first saw him over at the training grounds.
Her eyes briefly met Gaara's green ones. So cold… so lonely. Then, the visions bombarded her, but this time, she had a sort of control of them. Perhaps all that training was actually paying off? No matter, it was nice to be able to have a stronger sense of control these days as she watched the visions. She was so focused on Gaara that she didn't notice Kakashi tensing beside her.
"Of all times… why is she activating her sharingan now?"
It was a good thing no one else had noticed Emiko activating her sharingan or else they could be in quite the mess… He nudged the kunoichi casually with his elbow, pretending to just be shifting and adjusting the book in his hands. Emiko jumped at the sudden jolt, sharingan disappearing in the process.
Kakashi hummed softly, turning the page of his book. Emiko raised an eyebrow at him—and briefly glared at that book—but turned her attention back to the red-headed Sand genin with a frown. She didn't like what she had seen. She wanted to help, but how? She wasn't taking the Chūnin Exams… But there had to be some way she could meet him. She couldn't let Gaara keep thinking like that.
Things certainly weren't going according to plan. Perhaps he had been too hasty… No, the female Uchiha had been unpredictable. That, and the Hokage had upped security.
He would have to come up with a different plan. There was that plan, but no, it wouldn't do. Especially not since he had seen he had competition for the Uchiha. He had to play things very carefully. There was no losing her to him.
As much as he hated to admit, it looked like he might have to get into the Hokage's good graces. For the sake of getting the Uchiha, he would be willing to make sacrifices—no matter how unpleasant. It would take a lot of work… Tsunade would not be easily convinced, or would she?
Now there was a thought. If he could prove that and well hint at some information, perhaps she'd see reason. This had something do with her village after all. And who didn't want such rare information?
Yes, things would come together. He wouldn't turn and run just because his first plan didn't work. Things would go his way. He just had to adjust and adapt.
The Uchiha would be his. No one would be able to get either Uchiha if he had anything to say about it.
Now… how exactly should he execute his plan with Tsunade? He needed to act fast as the Chūnin Exams were coming to a close. There wouldn't be an opportunity to be this close to the Hokage for a while.
It was difficult to try to meet the Sand genin. She had tried watching for him around the village at first. But that was no good. He didn't frequent the village. She should have realized that much sooner than she had… So, the best thing to do was just to try to catch him when he was training at Team's 7 training grounds.
Problem… Kakashi was always hovering around nearby. He would find it strange that she wanted to talk with genin from outside Konoha. Not to mention she couldn't exactly explain why she wanted to talk to Gaara in the first place! That would be bringing out a whole can of worms.
But she had to take the only chance she had—even if the jōnin would be around and sure to ask questions. The final rounds would be coming in just a few days. If she didn't try now, Gaara would be long gone. This was her last chance before the Chūnin Exams ended.
So far, everything was going according to plan. She had requested to watch Naruto and Sasuke train (poor Sakura had gotten knocked out in the preliminaries…), and Kakashi hadn't objected. And well, the two boys actually begged him to allow her. They wanted her opinion on a few things which she was happy to oblige—though she wasn't sure if her opinion was really worth anything…
She just hoped the two boys—and the jōnin!—didn't notice her jitteriness. The Sand genin would be here soon to train. And she had to find the right opportunity to speak with Gaara without getting Konoha into any trouble… so many difficulties! But she wouldn't let that stop her (she'd figure out how to resolve any issues later).
Sasuke and Naruto had just finished discussing a few things with Kakashi and were waiting on her to join them… which she wasn't about to do. Where was Gaara and the rest of his team?!
"I thought the Suna genin would be training…" she mumbled.
Kakashi raised an eyebrow. "They are training."
The female Uchiha reddened. The jōnin had sharper ears than she had thought…
"But I don't see them?"
The Hatake raised an eyebrow. "They train at Team 3's now."
Emiko's eyes widened. How had she missed that bit of info?! No wonder she hadn't been able to see the Sand genin lately. She was at the wrong training grounds!
Before Kakashi (or the other two genin) could ask her any questions, she had taken off. The jōnin sighed and followed after her with his students at his heels. Really… this Uchiha was a handful. He never understood what was going on in her head. What put her in such a—
He didn't finish his thought. No, there were more important things to worry about now! The crazy kunoichi was heading straight for the Sand genin. Perhaps he should have seen that coming with her muttering and all, but still! What was she thinking?!
"Emiko-chan!"
"Oiii Emiko-oneechan!"
"Emiko-san!"
Ignoring the people frantically calling her name, Emiko headed straight for Gaara at a speed that did her great credit (Kakashi had not been lying or exaggerating when he had said she was fast…). This was her chance! Possibly her only chance, so there was no way she was going to let this slide by her.
Before Gaara or the sand could move, Emiko pulled the Suna genin into a tight hug.
Gaara's eyes widened in surprise, not able to quite comprehend this feeling or small warmth that forming in his heart. He hadn't felt like this in many years… and to think that some genin from Konoha was doing this to him. Who was this even? He didn't recognize her from the exams.
"What… is this feeling?" he murmured.
"Forget it. Just forget it all," Emiko whispered shakily. She couldn't believe she had been able to do this… she was finally able to speak to the Sand genin.
"Just forget those thoughts… it can't happen? Don't be silly. Nothing is entirely impossible. Think of that one thing. The one thing that changes everything. And cling to that with all your heart, Gaara-kun. You don't have to be the monster they think you are."
She looked into his eyes once more, her sharingan swirling madly. "And Shukaku-san… I have something to say to you as well."
From what she had gathered from Kurama's memories, she knew it would be difficult to reach out to this tailed-beast. And Kurama certainly wouldn't be able to give her any advice even if she had asked the Kyūbi…the fox and tanuki weren't exactly on friendly terms. This wouldn't be easy. But since when did she let something like that hold her back?
She'd get through to the tanuki somehow… she had to try.
"You… smell like her."
Emiko blinked in surprise. That was not exactly the reaction she had been expecting from the Ichibi.
"Like who?"
"Not that it matters…" the tanuki grumbled to himself before replying to the female Uchiha. "Why should I listen to you? I should just kill you here and now."
"Because… I'm asking you sincerely."
Shukaku snorted. "Fine. Only because you smell like her. But if I don't like what you have to say, I'm going to kill you," he warned, causing Gaara to pale. The Sand shinobi didn't want to hurt this kunoichi—the first person who didn't look at him like a monster despite knowing all that he did and could do. He inwardly prayed to anyone that could possibly care… not this time. Shukaku couldn't hurt this one. Not this one.
Emiko bit her lip. "Okay, you have a deal, Shukaku-san."
Gaara stared hard at the female Uchiha. She… was just going to let the tailed-beast have its way? Why would she do that? She must not know the rumors of Shukaku… he wasn't one to be reasoned with! She needed to just get away from here while the tanuki was somewhat held back.
"Why are we just standing here?" Sasuke growled, clenching his fists.
Kakashi glanced at his student before returning his gaze to the large sand dome fortress that separated his team and the other shinobi and kunoichi from Gaara and Emiko.
He understood the Uchiha's complaint. After all, they couldn't see what was going on. Who knew what was going on behind all that sand? For all they knew… Emiko could be dead. And why did that make the Hatake's heart twist in such an odd way?
"Don't be hasty, Sasuke," the jōnin scolded. "Gaara has proven that his sand is impenetrable. We can't just rush in."
There had to be a way to get in there… somehow.
"But that monster could be hurting Emiko-san!"
"He's not a monster," Naruto said quietly, causing the Uchiha to face him with a frown.
"You've seen what he's like, what he does. He's heartless. And Emiko-san just doesn't have the common sense to just—"
"He's not a monster," the blonde repeated but with more volume as he clenched his fists. "Don't you get it, teme? He's like me. Like you." He pointed at the sand dome. "She's in there doing the same thing she did for us. She… she sees things, Sasuke," he said more softly. "She can see the goodness deep inside us, even if we seem like monsters to others. She cares more than anyone could ever care. So don't you dare call Gaara a monster. He's just like us." Naruto let his eyes meet his teammate's. "Don't worry about Emiko-oneechan. She'll be fine. I know she will."
The Uchiha looked away, unable to meet the Uzumaki's blue eyes so filled with emotion. He wasn't like Naruto… at least, not in that way. He didn't wear his emotions on his sleeves.
But his words. Those really hit deep. The blonde might be dense at times, but he could be insightful when he really tried and was passionate about the subject.
Not like Sasuke wanted to admit that he once thought poorly of the blonde and even of himself at times… but it was true. People had seen kids like him and Naruto as tools or monsters. Just things to be used. When really, the two were just kids.
Emiko was one of the first to see through all that. He didn't know how. And he still didn't understand how… but she cared. And well, if she cared that much for him and Naruto, he supposed she could feel the same way towards Gaara.
He just hoped that the Suna genin proved that he wasn't as heartless as he appeared. No matter how Naruto felt, he wasn't going to be very forgiving if there was even one small scratch on Emiko. There was no way he'd forgive Gaara if he harmed the female Uchiha. Emiko was family.
While the female Uchiha—Emiko was her name—had explained what she was going to do, Gaara still felt this odd sense of dread. Allowing her into his mind-space… to talk to Shukaku… alone. He didn't like it, but he couldn't stop her either. There was something in her eye that kept him from trying.
So… here he was. Sitting cross-legged and alone as Emiko slipped through the gate separating them from the tailed-beast, just so she could speak with Shukaku more privately. Gaara would have liked to eavesdrop, but the two were speaking in such low voices, he couldn't hear anything even if he was trying.
He frowned as he watched the Uchiha. She was so determined to get through to the tailed-beast… What drove her to try so hard? No one had ever been able to get Shukaku to listen. The beast was the one in control, not the jinchūriki, not anyone! What madness led her to think that this beast could be reasoned with?
But then again… what had possessed her to try speaking with him? No one dared approach Gaara of the Sand Waterfall. There was something strange about this kunoichi. She wasn't like anyone he had ever met or seen before.
She didn't flee from him despite seeing his abilities during the exams and his cool indifference to those around him.
And she wasn't a threat to him. From the little he had seen of the Uchiha genin, she was nothing special. She was not stronger than him—or her own teammates for that matter.
She was nothing to him… yet, she had come to him with such a warm heart. A warmth he thought he'd never feel deep within in his soul. It was a feeling he had squashed and abandoned…
And somehow, this Uchiha had broken through and reached out to him. It was strange… how she could be like that despite not knowing him yet knowing everything. She was a mystery.
To his surprise, Shukaku seemed to relax and be at ease as he continued to speak with the Uchiha. The beast seemed to be willing to listen—something that previously been impossible to even imagine! The tanuki wasn't trying to attack or kill the kunoichi despite what an open and vulnerable target she was.
What on earth could they be talking about?
"Ah… Gaara-kun?"
The Sand genin looked up in surprise. The female Uchiha was giving him a slightly concerned look.
"Are you doing okay?"
He blinked then gave her a slight nod before glancing over her to look at the tailed-beast.
"Leave me be," he growled, turning his back to the two genin.
Emiko gave Gaara an apologetic look. "Give him some time… okay?"
He raised an eyebrow as he got onto his feet. That seemed dangerous… if he left an inch of freedom, the tailed-beast was sure to take over. But Emiko had faith in the beast. Perhaps this once… he could try for her sake.
The Uchiha cracked a small grin as she held out her hand to him. "Shall we?"
Gaara blinked, and before he could really make sense of it, the two were back outside of his mind-space.
Emiko was rubbing her eyes but was still smiling. "Thank you."
"For what?" he found himself asking.
"Allowing me in… and talking to Shukaku-san," she explained. "You didn't have to."
"You… you are not like other kunoichi."
Emiko laughed softly, though there was a slight bitterness in it. "No… no, I'm not."
Gaara didn't like that bitterness… he wanted to take it away like she had taken his inner pain.
"Emiko-san, I—"
"No need for formalities," she interrupted with a sad smile. "Just call me 'Emiko,' okay?"
He frowned. No, there was a need to show some form of respect for what she had done even if he didn't know exactly where to go from there.
"I—"
"It's fine," she insisted quietly. "You and Shukaku have a lot to think about. So… I should be heading back to the others.
Gaara pursed his lips as he watched his sand slowly made its way back inside his gourd. The sand gently tousled Emiko's hair, and in the sunlight, it almost looked like a golden halo was resting on her head.
She was an angel… but one with broken wings. Something was holding her back from healing and spreading out those wings and flying. He was half-tempted to ask Shukaku, but the tanuki made it clear he didn't want to be bothered—he had some major thinking to do after all. Perhaps some other time… he wanted to know what the tailed-beast seemed to know about the female Uchiha.
Emiko glanced back at him, giving him a small smile. "Take care, Gaara-kun."
And before he could stop her, she had brushed past the last sand particles and was now approaching the wary Konoha shinobi and kunoichi: her people. They were really lucky to have a kunoichi like her.
Perhaps one day… he'd met her and the other shinobi and kunoichi of Konoha again.
"Until we meet again… Emiko-oneechan."
Author's Note: It's been awhile… so sorry for the long breaks in between updates. I think I finally have the story wrapping up and can post on a set schedule! *fingers crossed* The plan is to wrap up the story this week if I am able. I just have a few chapters to tweak and then a set schedule! Yay! For any of you who follow this story on A03, be aware that the updates will be slightly slower since I am working on illustrations for certain chapters and drawing takes much longer than writing for me. XD
A lot has been going on in real life. My family finally purchased a house so we will finally be moving in a couple of months. But hopefully I'll be done with this story long before the move actually happens. I really love this story, but recently, I've kind of lost motivation to do anything really. I'm trying to push myself to get things done because you guys deserve a finished story. Thanks so much for sticking with me!
Some deviation from the anime/manga when it comes to the Chunin Exams and Gaara. And well, with Emiko being in the story at all there is going to be some deviation... Heheheh. I apologize if things seem a bit rushed. The Chunin Exams are important but not exactly important important for this particular storyline. I hope you all can forgive me? That and I'm worried I didn't do Gaara justice... his character is hard to work with at times.
Hello again, Fictional Fanatic from Fimfic! Yes, you're right, canonically it was five days not three. I totally forgot to mention that change in the my author notes. Heheh… I was more focused on mentioning Orochimaru that it slipped my mind! I'm sorry that I forgot to note it. :O
JintoLin! Good to see you as always. :3 You put out quite a long review. And I enjoyed reading it! But yes haha, poor Emiko really wasn't thinking things through by reading on the busy training grounds. Music probably would have helped drown out that but alas, she has no such items or music. :') And yes, she just *had* to grab those history books. Just her luck, right? ;P Oh yisss, the parts with Kakashi and Emiko were quite fun. I was very pleased with how that section turned out. Poor Emiko will really have to rethink her plans with Jiraiya. That man is most definitely not a good idea for a mentor. XD Should we worry for the poor Toad Sage? Haha! I have to agree with that comment! It would be safe to say that for sure. Emiko would have something to say if *anyone* mentioned her looking like a tomato. Heheh, gotta squeeze in a little fluff here and there. ;) And well, Naruto needs some love. Those two really needed a little time together. Ah yes… Orochimaru. He was "fun" to write. :P Took some tweaking, but I think I like how it turned out. With the Chunin Exams and all, it was inevitable that Orochimaru would need to meet Emiko. He definitely learned a *very* valuable lesson! X3 Emiko does not mess around (but in her defense, the bite was a last resort! ;) and well, Orochimaru tried to bite first lol!). But yes, all's well that ends well. ;3 Yep, I like Sakura and Ino working that out between each other. I think they are a great pair of friends. Aw yeah… Ino can't totally be over her boy issues, can she? But with her focus on her team, she didn't let Sasuke distract her too much. You got that right! Kurama might complain about a lot of things, but he does look out for Naruto in his own way (and yes, now Emiko too! :D). Mmmmm, yes. Emiko's lips are sealed and so are Naruto's if he wants to live! XD Gotcha. I've only really dabbled on FF. I always heard of AO3 but didn't really know much about it. It has a lot of great tools! I am enjoying it immensely. I might have to check out Wattpad. I used to read comics on there, but I digress! I'm glad you enjoyed those pictures. I hope you liked the one for chapter 7. ;) ;) ;) That's good, haha. I am notorious among my friends and family for being the queen of spoilers. X3 It's hard *not* to answer the questions sometimes! Thanks again too much for your review. I hope you enjoyed this chapter and my long response to your review!
Hello Crystal-Wolf-Guardain-967! I'm so glad you loved it. :D Hope to see you around.