Chapter 82

Homeward Bound: Ibiki's Analysis

Amari took a deep breath of sea air as she stood guard over the bound, gagged and sleeping Aoi.

The prisoner complicated the journey home. Aoi's over-reliance on the Blade of Thunder Spirit and ambush techniques, as well as his overconfidence, led to his downfall at the hands of a Genin team. However, Aoi was still a shinobi. He ambushed her squad perfectly, and had the Fifth Hokage failed to identify the poison and antidote, Team Seven and Idate would've met a fatal end on that deserted shore.

Binds, gags and genjutsu weren't impossible to escape. Shinobi training consisted of capture and escape scenarios, after all.

Thankfully, unbeknownst to Team Seven, Boss Jirōchō and Tsunade arranged for a ship, equipped with a brig and a small guard detail, to retrieve her squad and the prisoner. Beside her the small transport vessel, flying a white canvas sail with a large and proud red Leaf Village symbol sewn into it, arrived and prepared to dock.

Relaxed, Amari couldn't help but smile as she watched a few gulls wheeling around above on the sunrise colored sky, now and then letting off their cries. A pelican, previously perched on a nearby docked ship, suddenly took off, flying up only to then nosedive at the water, causing quite the splash.

People occupied the port in varying densities and duties. Some were dock workers with early morning shifts, cleaning the walkways, checking the docked ships and the anchoring ropes preventing them from floating away. Crew members of some of the vessels prepared to set off, or prepared to dock, depending on the vessel. Out on the horizon, away from traffic and flow of ships, were fishermen on their way to cast their nets and lines.

Shops, hotels, taverns and restaurants were already open, or would be shortly. Shop owners or workers could be seen sweeping the floors, cleaning the windows or organizing merchandise. Decorations for the race were being taken down. Messes from the festivities cleaned.

Daily life continued. It never really ended, not for the average person.

Still, Degarashi Port seemed like an entirely different animal now. No more Wagarashi Family thugs milled about, extorting and bullying the populace. No possible threats monitored their every move from the shadows.

This place finally seemed at peace.

Or maybe she was. Ever since the Akatsuki incident and the Land of Snow her heart stood precariously on the edge of anxiety and grief.

"Everyone still looks at me like I'm the same kunoichi who went toe to toe with Mimi," she recalled telling her mother after being discharged from the hospital. "The same fearless Genin who recklessly battled against the Akatsuki. I'm happy they're inspired to become stronger, but I don't feel like that kunoichi anymore. She was strong. She refused to lose. I…feel weak."

"Mm. And you expected to jump out of bed and back into training?" Her mother rubbed her arm. "Little one, you've been in a coma-like state for a month now. Your body is guaranteed to feel weaker."

"But it's not just my body," she argued weakly, lifting up her hands to look at them. "My spirit feels sapped, too, Mom. I feel…broken inside, just like I did after Ryu died."

"If that's how you feel then we know what to do: We'll rebuild your foundation, one piece at a time—together." Amari shifted her teary gaze to meet her mother's red eyes, full of warmth and support. "You are not broken, little one. You are strong, with no short supply of stubbornness."

The lightness of her mother's voice coaxed a sniffle and a giggle out of Amari. "Today is the first day of your recovery. It's okay to feel weak, physically and emotionally. It's okay to grieve, Amari." Kurenai pulled her closer. "We'll get through this together. I promise."

This mission, despite the injuries she incurred, helped to reinforce her foundation once more. It helped her reinvigorate her spirit. It healed the fractures in her confidence. And it was because of her precious people—as well as no short supply of stubbornness—that she found her way here again.

There was still a lot to learn, she knew, and plenty more internal struggles to deal with. But the success of this mission helped her take another step forward. Not a series of lateral steps. Not a hundred steps back. This was a step forward on her path, perhaps small, but every little step added up overtime.

I'll keep moving forward, she thought, humming a tune to herself as she reached her right hand behind her back and grabbed her left arm. For Shisui, for my parents, for my family, my team and for the future.

"You and Mimi Inuzuka have already positioned yourselves as the next generation's guardians. You two must continue to inspire your peers to become greater than they are. It is the only way they will survive what is to come, should the worst happen."

Itachi placed his trust in her that day to take care of Sasuke and empower her generation for the threats ahead of them. For him and Aimi, too, she would do everything she could to be the shinobi they believed her capable of being; a shinobi who inspired her generation to rise and stand against a threat to the shinobi world.

The burden of knowing even a fragment of truth was tremendous; it weighed on her conscious and heart. She had no place to complain, though. Itachi and Aimi carried heavy burdens as well, just as Shisui had.

And besides, she wasn't doing this alone. She had her cousin backing her up in spirit and a team to pick her up when she fell down.

I can do this.

She glanced to her gathered teammates. The trio waited patiently for the ramp to be set for them to board with their precious cargo.

Sasuke stood with his hands in his pockets, eyes gazing out at the horizon in deep thought. Sakura raised her arms above her head as she stretched out her back, interlocking her fingers at the peak and leaning from side to side. Naruto covered his mouth as he yawned, eyes sleepy after their long day yesterday but raring to get on board so they could get home.

I can do this. For them. For everyone.

Amari sensed the approach of Idate, Boss Jirōchō and a few of his trusted guards—the veteran with the Masakari among them. They all turned to face the group. Amari and the veteran shared a short nod of mutual respect.

"Hey Boss, Idate, what's up?" Naruto asked casually.

"I hoped to see you four off," Boss Jirōchō said, greeting them with a warm smile. "And to thank you once more for your help."

"Our pleasure," replied Amari, a light smile on her lips. She bowed her head. "Thank you for your hospitality, and sorry we only left a note behind. I didn't want to disturb you all with our departure."

"It's quite all right." He reached into his jacket and pulled out a scroll, stepping closer to hand it to Amari. "Here. Please give this to your Hokage with my compliments and gratitude. It's my payment, as well as a note praising the hard work all of you put into your mission."

She took the scroll awkwardly. "Oh, uh, thank you."

I was so focused on being polite I totally forgot he had to pay us! How would I have explained that to Lady Hokage?

"No, thank you." Jirōchō gave a slight bow of his head.

The veteran bowed his head. He glanced to Idate and grumbled beneath his breath, "Bow, you fool. The Boss is extending his respect to these four shinobi, as should you."

Idate opened his mouth to retort, but never got a word out. The veteran placed his hand on top of Idate's head and forced him to mirror the motion.

"Hey, don't be so rough!" the runner whined.

"Quiet. The Boss is speaking."

"The Land of Tea and the Wasabi Family will never forget what your four have done for us. It is with your help the Wagarashi Family's control has been broken, and through your examples Idate was able to learn valuable lessons in trust and respect. On behalf of the whole Wasabi Family, thank you."

"You're welcome," Amari replied.

"I want to thank you for all of your help as well," Idate said next, raising his head only after the veteran relinquished his hold.

"Yeah, well, like Amari said, it was our pleasure," Naruto said.

Heavy steps strode to the edge of the wooden ship behind them, drawing their collective attention to the man they belonged to.

"I've come to take the prisoner," Ibiki's gruff voice disturbed the peaceful air.

"Mr. Ibiki?" Amari mentally glanced to Idate. Did you come to see him?

"Uh, Big Brother?" Idate called out in surprise.

Ibiki didn't acknowledge his existence. He scanned over the four shinobi, examining them for any sign of injuries; he noticed the tear in the back of her shirt, and the bandages beneath, but his experienced eyes recognized it as a minor injury. Nothing to reprimand her for.

Then his cold eyes moved to the gagged and tied up prisoner next to them. His brow set in a stern expression. Distant recognition teased his mind.

"Who is that man?"

Amari smiled a sadistic smile. "A present wrapped up just for you, Mr. Ibiki." She created two clones, who set about lifting up their unconscious prisoner and carrying him up the ramp. "You remember Aoi Rokushō, right?"

Ibiki's unshakable scarred features changed for the briefest second. The corner of his lips lifted with evil intent, ugly and cruel. He said not a single word, yet that smile described everything in excruciating detail.

Dispatching her smile for a serious look, she continued. "Apparently he was a Jōnin for the Rain. I'm not sure how much he can give us, or if he knows anything at all. But capturing him alive seemed like the best option. We've retrieved Lord Second's sword as well."

"I see," he said with a nod. "A wise decision, Amaririsu Yūhi. A wise decision indeed. Now, let's go. My men will take him to the brig."

"All right. Come on guys. Let's go home." She offered one last bow of her head to Boss Jirōchō and farewell to Idate before leading her team up the ramp onto the ship. Ibiki's men took over Aoi, allowing her to dispel her clones and relax.

"Big Brother! Big Brother, hey, wait!" Idate called out to Ibiki.

Ibiki stopped his retreat back onto the ship. "Who are you? Only one person ever called me that," he spoke in an emotionless voice. He turned back around to face his brother. "And he died three years ago."

Not another word was spared between them.

Idate smiled at his stone faced older brother.

The Jōnin turned around and walked up the ramp, eyes closed, a proud smile on his face. Idate bowed his head to his back. He'd finally learned the lesson Ibiki tried to teach him, and how Ibiki was continuing to protect him.

Amari smiled at the interaction and moved to take a seat while the ship prepared to leave port.

Hopping up onto the railing of the wooden ship on port-side, the Nara dangled her legs over the edge towards the water and let out a content sigh. Sasuke sat next to her, back braced against the cabin, right leg bent towards his body to prop up his right arm as his left leg dangled off the side. Naruto leaned onto the railing on her other side with Sakura doing the same next to him.

The ship set sail shortly after.

"So long Idate! See ya again someday!" Naruto waved.

"Take care!" Sakura said.

Amari smiled and offered a quiet wave. Sasuke merely raised his hand up in farewell.

"You got it! You guys come back anytime!" Idate replied.

"You take care of yourself, Boss!" Naruto said.

"Yeah," he smiled. "Perhaps next time we'll be able to play another game of shogi, Amaririsu."

She nodded. "You bet."

One final nod was shared between her and the veteran.

As the ship began to pick up speed, Idate jogged along the dock after them, waving his hand at the group. "Naruto, Amaririsu, thanks again!" he yelled to them.

They all raised their hands in farewell, smiling and grinning at the runner until he reached the end of the dock.

"You know, you really made an impression on that old guard, Amari," Naruto said.

"He definitely respects you," Sakura agreed.

"The feeling is mutual," Amari replied.

"Yeah, but you guys didn't even say anything to each other. He just kept nodding to you, and you kept nodding back."

"He said everything he needed to."

"Without speaking? I don't know. That sounds kind of weird."

"Maybe it's a bond shared between warriors."

"Mayb— Hey! Wait a minute, are you saying I'm not a warrior?!"

Amari giggled.

"Aw, come on! Not cool, Amari!"

"Don't make it so easy for me and I won't tease you like that."

Naruto crossed his arms and huffed. Sakura hid her laughter behind her hand.

"We'll be passing the Land of Water on our way back," Sasuke said after a beat of silence. "I wonder if you'll get another love letter on the way."

Amari flushed red, squeaking in shock as she almost fell off the railing back into the boat.

"Sasuke!"

"Maybe he'll give her another flower," Sakura teased.

"Or a shirtless picture," Naruto snickered.

There was an image she had almost forgotten. Only almost.

"Gu- guys! Come on! It- it's nothing like that!" she sputtered, face flushed.

"Sure it isn't," Sakura sang.

The Nara deflated. "You're supposed to be on my side, you troublesome girl," she whined.

"Who knows, maybe Haku will help her give Kurenai-sensei grandkids," Naruto teased.

Amari's head exploded. Instantly. And as it did, she fainted, falling off the railing and flat on her back.

Ibiki, leaning against the mast, smirking devilishly, watched as the panicked members of Team Seven rushed to their unconscious teammate's side.

"Amari! Breathe! Breathe!" the kunoichi waved her hand in front of her teammates red face. Amaririsu mumbled incoherent nonsense. "Grandkids, Naruto? Seriously?! Were you trying to kill her?"

"You brain-dead idiot!" the Uchiha boy scolded, knelt next to the downed girl. "What were you thinking?!"

"Aw man, not again!" Naruto wailed as he tried to shake his teammate awake. "Hey, come on Amari! Wake up! It's just a joke!"

Heh, he chuckled, always interesting with these kids.

It wasn't without reason Ibiki volunteered to retrieve this young team. He had two, to be precise. Ibiki was aware his little brother would be running this race and, should he succeed, he hoped to see how he had grown since the incident three years ago.

Boss Jirōchō had done well with his brother, as had the influence of these four Genin in their short time around him. Idate had grown up well. He finally learned from the mistakes he made as a shinobi.

Ibiki was proud of him.

His second reason for volunteering was these kids, specifically their temporary team leader. During the Chūnin Exams she acquired his interest, an interest that grew with each new part of the Exam, from her report on Orochimaru, to her fight against Mimi Inuzuka—the other kunoichi to impress him.

Shikaku, Kakashi, even the Third Hokage saw the potential they both possessed, as well as what they symbolized among their peers. Amaririsu Yūhi and Mimi Inuzuka, they were the next generations leaders, even if they had yet to see this for themselves. Their skill and their Wills served as an inspiration their peers looked to follow; their bonds, their tenacity and their grit left an impression on all those they met.

It's no wonder the Fifth Hokage has taken a shining to them.

He had too. They proved themselves during the Invasion. No one could minimize their efforts to defend the Leaf, protect their allies and stop the Sand Genin. Ibiki was confident greater causalities would have been sustained had Kakashi and Genma never sent them to aid their forces—a personal note he did not hesitate to inform the Fifth Hokage of when asked.

So how had she grown since then, he was left to wonder.

Did the Akatsuki incident set her back, or had she persevered through the events that had taken place?

By his estimations, a Genin team on a B- or A-rank mission returning with minimal injuries, a stolen weapon of the Leaf and a captured traitor wrapped up in a bow displayed excellent progress.

Any fool could have chosen to eliminate Aoi, and the world would have carried on with one less traitor poisoning it. There would have been no judgement or reprimands for such a decision, especially when the whole situation was considered.

However, it would seem Amaririsu went out of her way, even possibly at the risk of injury to herself, to capture Aoi. Of course there was a distinct possibility Aoi held nothing of immediate interest; he was always a loudmouth, and the reclusive Rain Village likely wouldn't give him key Intel.

Yet somewhere in his mind they may find little details not known to anyone outside of the Village.

Amaririsu proved a capable leader, during the Invasion against the Sand, Sound and Cloud as well as here today. Leaders did not ask for decisions to be made for them; they bore the burden of their decisions, good or ill, as they united a team together.

As he watched the three members of Team Seven aid the dazed Amaririsu back onto the railing, Ibiki nodded to himself.

Yes, she will do well in the future.

Aoi awoke slowly. Immediately he realized he was no longer on solid land. Where those impudent Genin's put him was cold, wooden, dank and constantly moving—the brig of a ship, no doubt.

Ha! As if their binds and wooden prison could hold him. He'd make them regret sparing his life, starting with that blue-haired child. He would make her suffer the most for making a fool of him.

"Ah, so you're awake."

Aoi's plans for revenge suddenly and violently shattered. That voice… No, it couldn't be!

In the shadows beyond the prison cell, the silhouette of the demonic figure that voice belonged to could be seen, sitting at a desk, scarred features dancing with light and shadow from candlelight. He didn't look over at Aoi. But he was addressing him, voice gruff and unamused.

"It's been three years, Aoi. You haven't changed one bit: You're still a fool."

Aoi growled as he squirmed desperately on the floor. He winced and groaned in pain when he felt his flesh rip open. No. This couldn't be happening. This couldn't be real! This must be another genjutsu of those pathetic Genin.

"Yes, I know. Those binds are quite tight, aren't they? Team Seven are a vigilant squad, experienced in dealing with dangerous enemies. They weren't willing to leave your escape to chance; that razor wire is to encourage you to accept your fate. I'd advise you to stop struggling. I have no intention of healing your injuries."

"You…bastard!" is what Aoi tried to curse him. It came out as indistinct grumblings.

"And you will accept your fate," Ibiki stated, still not looking at Aoi. "You don't have a choice. Soon the Rain will know you've been captured; you can't go back to them. They'll kill you on sight, suspecting you as a spy or an informant of the Leaf. However, that would be assuming you survive long enough to escape what I have planned for you."

Aoi writhed on the floor like a wounded animal, frightened at his sudden mortality.

Ibiki rose slowly from his seat. With methodical steps, he approached, boots making a dull thud with every step, wood creaking in fear beneath them. Every step cast a longer shadow over Aoi, whose pride and arrogance dissolved into trembles of terror and wordless, horrified, muffled sounds.

No, no, no, no.

This was real! He was real!

He recalled the stories he heard about Ibiki breaking prisoners as he watched him approach, stony faced. Step by step he was breaking, and the interrogation hadn't even begun.

Ibiki crouched at the gate separating them.

"Save your energy and stop trembling." Ibiki's scarred lips and haunting eyes took on the appearance of an excited devil. "You're going to need it, Aoi."

Aoi screamed.

Team Seven collectively paused everything they were doing and looked around as they heard a sudden, piercing, terrified scream erupt from below deck.

They shared a look.

Naruto chuckled nervously. Sakura rubbed her forehead, lips twisting uncomfortably. Sasuke shrugged.

"Ear plugs in tonight guys," Amari ordered as she walked through the quarters towards her bunk, located above Sakura's this time. "Mr. Ibiki is getting an early start on his work."

Naruto stepped onto Sasuke's bed and prepared to hop onto his own. "I guess what goes around comes around," he said to himself.

"Don't pity him," Sasuke replied. "He sold out the Leaf, tortured Ibiki and helped kill Leaf shinobi when he did. Good people lost their lives because of him. And he enjoyed it, too."

"Yeah. I guess you're right."

Amari prepared to hop onto her bunk, but stopped when Sakura's hand rested on her knee.

"How are you feeling, Amari?"

"Hm. There isn't any pain from forcing my Shadow Possession, thankfully. My back stings a little still. Hopefully it doesn't make sleeping impossible," she frowned.

"Would you like me to reapply the ointment? It may alleviate the pain more."

Amari considered toughing through it for the night; she didn't want to inconvenience Sakura with removing the bandages and reapplying them. But she didn't want to risk an infection, or suffer a sleepless night.

The warmth of Sakura's gentle hand on her knee also held its sway.

"Could you?" she asked.

Sakura smiled, nodded and patted the space on her bed. "Sit here. I'll take care of it." Her emerald eyes shot over to the other side of the room. "And both of you better turn over. If I catch either of you trying to peak at Amari, you'll wish you were stuck with Mr. Ibiki."

Naruto and Sasuke quickly turned onto their sides to grant them privacy, and to hide their blushes.

Amari sat down with her back to Sakura and stripped her tank top and mesh top off. Bandages covered her from her bellybutton to the clasp of her bra. Sakura captured her wild hair and guided it to drape over her chest, unhooking the clasp of her bra afterward after warning Amari she would. The Nara held the undergarment against her chest while her friend worked to remove the bandages.

The ointment was room temperature instead of cold. Sakura painted it gently over the healing wound, and the pain slowly began to alleviate. Amari felt herself decompressing simultaneously.

"I don't think it's going to scar," Sakura informed.

"That's a relief," Amari sighed. "I have enough scars already."

She heard her friend hum lowly, in discontent. Then felt her clean fingers draw over the scars marring her left shoulder and back.

"I…never realized how badly the Lightning Blade affected you," Sakura admitted in a soft voice.

She wasn't referring only to the scars she was examining in closer detail.

"Had I been able to, I wouldn't have let anyone see it. Not even my mom or Kakashi-sensei. I told myself it was my choice and my burden. But…I think Kakashi-sensei knew the moment I made that choice what I would endure. He saw it all before we left the Land of Waves. My mom knew it, too."

"We were the only ones who didn't see it," Sakura mumbled.

Amari turned slightly, took Sakura's hand into her own and looked directly into her eyes. "Because I didn't let you see it. Don't blame yourselves. I made the choice to hide it. It's just my way." She smiled. "I'm a troublesome girl, after all. Ask Shika. He'll tell you all about it."

Sakura giggled lightly and nodded. "I'm sure he will." She shut her eyes and shook her head. "Sorry. Trying to blame myself was selfish. But when I look back, it seems so obvious that you were suffering right in front of us. And we failed to see it."

"It wasn't as obvious as hindsight might make it. And you guys didn't fail me. I should've brought you guys in instead of hiding it. If anyone is to blame, it's me. I made a reckless call to save Haku. I hurt Kakashi-sensei doing it, too."

Amari released Sakura's hand and looked down at her scarred arm. "I made him strike me down. For a moment he thought he killed me; he has to live with that feeling, that memory, because of me. Nothing I can do can take that away. I wouldn't change what I did, because what I gained is greater than the pain I endured. But, like I said, if anyone is to blame, it's me."

The pink-haired kunoichi took Amari's hand into her own. They met each other's gazes, and in that moment they were once again alone on a ship bunk.

Sakura smiled at her. Amari felt the bird trying to break free in her chest again. The natural, vulnerable, scary and wonderful feelings were back again.

She smiled back, shyer. Timid. More vulnerable given her current state of undress. Goose bumps covered her flesh, her heart raced. It felt good. Scary. Comfortable. Uneasy. The warmth of Sakura's hand holding hers, the pretty smile on her lips entranced her. Her emerald eyes embraced her with warmth.

She wanted…

"You don't have to— Ah! Sorry! I thought you two were done!"

"You idiot. They'll tell us when they're done!" Sasuke swore at their teammate.

Amari flushed redder than the light of Amenominakanushi, eyes diverting to the floor. Sakura blushed, too, as the spell was broken, but immediately turned her rage towards their knucklehead.

"Naruto!" Sakura boomed. "You are so dead when I'm finished bandaging Amari up!"

"It- it was an accident! You two went quiet, an- and I thought I heard Amari stand up, an- and I didn't want her to blame herself so much! I swear I didn't see anything!"

"You're lucky she kept herself covered up! That Master Jiraiya is a bad influence on you!"

"Wait! You have the wrong idea! I'm nothing like Pervy Sage!"

"Don't you dare turn over again or it'll be the last thing you ever do."

Amari heard Naruto gulp in fear.

With Sakura's help and quick hands she was bandaged up and dressed again in a few minutes. Embarrassed, Amari hopped onto her bunk with a quiet thank you. But only after poking Sakura affectionately in the forehead.

Later, when conversations and threats reached their end and everyone settled in for bed, Amari found herself smiling pleasantly in the darkness.

Maybe one of these days they could sort out these feelings.

Amari struggled not to fidget beneath the interrogating gaze of Ibiki Morino.

This certainly wasn't what she expected to encounter upon exiting their quarters for the open, upper deck. Sheesh, didn't this man realize how imposing he was? Walking into him first thing in the morning was like walking into a nightmare manifested in reality.

Contrasting her state of gradually building anxiety was the peaceful early morning sun floating on the horizon, casting rich pinks and oranges over the blue, cloudless canvas. Good wind caught the sail of their small vessel; they carved through the smooth sea with minimal resistance.

"Uh, Mr. Ibiki? Is something wrong?" she prompted nervously.

"We have an unexpected visitor," he said.

Her brow furrowed. "An enemy?"

"We're about to find out." He half turned and pointed to the mainmasts highest yard—a horizontal beam on which their sail was set. "Are they a friend of yours or your team?"

Amari expected a person to be sitting up there, but she saw nobody. She squinted in the direction of his finger. Then her eye widened.

"Kaito!" The hawk let out a cry and swooped down from the yard to her forearm. "Heh, sort of a short trip this time, huh?" she asked to the bird, gently rubbing a finger along his head and beak.

"So, an ally then," Ibiki's gruff voice reminded her of her current company.

The Nara nervously rubbed the back of her neck. "Um, yep. He's a messenger bird I use to keep in contact with a friend I made on our first real mission."

I have letters from a Mist shinobi and the Mizukage. A Village we do not have an alliance with right now who I'm speaking with in secret. And he's the Head of Torture and Interrogation.

Her anxiety levels were on a steep climb. Of all the people to be around, it had to be Ibiki and his soul piercing eyes? Even Kaito seemed to sense the tension, hopping quietly up her shoulder further away from the man and closer to the kunoichi.

"I see."

He said a lot with those two words.

"Well, I will leave you to read this friend's letter."

Like observing a painting from a distance, he didn't know the finer details, but he knew enough. And he wanted her to know that.

Feeling brave, foolish and stubborn, Amari spoke up.

"Mr. Ibiki." Ibiki stopped and glanced over his shoulder at her. "I trust this person with my life. I know that probably means very little to a veteran shinobi like you since I'm only a thirteen year old Genin. I don't blame you if that is how you feel. I'd feel the same way in your position if I heard some young kunoichi claim she trusted a shinobi from outside of the Leaf with their life.

"But I do trust him. He and I are two sides of the same coin. We understand each other's pain better than anyone else can, and neither of us will ever knowingly hurt each other again after what we experienced in our first battle. When we write to each other, we aren't writing as shinobi; we're writing to one another as human beings, as friends.

"I'm not asking you to trust me on words alone, but I hope in time I'll prove to you that my trust in this boy isn't misplaced."

Ibiki gave the slightest of nods. "I'll be waiting then." He turned to face forward again. She couldn't see the amused and sadistic smirk on his lips as he said, "And choose where you sit to read this letter wisely. I will not be fishing you out of the sea if you faint again."

Amari sputtered and flushed at the reminder. She was pretty sure Kaito was laughing at her too, the feathered jerk. He had no idea how embarrassing it was!

All the while the Nara never realized Ibiki gathered the Intel he wanted out of her.

Banishing her blush, Amari moved to the starboard side of the ship and sat with her back braced against the railing. Kaito hopped down and offered his back to her, allowing her to open his pack and retrieve Haku's letter from within. A second letter also waited, but that wasn't for her to pry into.

Kaito returned to her shoulder and peered down to read with her.

Amari,

I am relieved to learn you have made a full recovery, and that there was no lasting psychological or physical damage left behind by the attack. I was worried for you…I still worry for you. Our bond and these words we share are deeply precious to me. I felt that way before these Akatsuki members attacked you, but I…

The paper was stained by a thoughtful pause and erased attempts to put his thoughts into words.

I hold you in the highest esteem, Amari, Haku continued. Although I owe you a lifetime debt for saving my life and Zabuza's, that is not the reason I care so greatly for you or hold you in such high regard. It is a small fragment of a much larger whole.

You are…unique. In heart and spirit. In your actions, in your love for those you hold precious and in the way you see the world. I admire your kindness and am inspired by your physical and emotional strength. You endure through your internal conflicts, finding ways to keep moving forward even when others would give up, and as you do you bring light to those steeped in darkness.

Forgive me if I've been too forward. But we can never know if this letter or the next will be our last words ever written to one another, and I would feel more regret if I never found the courage to tell you how admirable and unique you are when I had the opportunity.

Amari's cheeks were on fire, and yet she couldn't hide her smile or ignore the fluttering warmth in her heart. Troublesome boy, making me blush, she thought affectionately.

I, too, hope an alliance will one day come from this. Lady Mei seemed pleased by Kakashi's reply; she has made writing a response a top priority and appears quite excited about it. I fear for Zabuza and Ao, though—he is one of her bodyguards and advisers—because Lady Mei has misheard them both on occasion, and whatever she believes she has heard from them causes her to threaten their lives.

Admittedly, I have found it humorous.

The confession wasn't written any differently than the rest of his letter, and yet it felt like they were conspiring together in a whisper so Zabuza wouldn't hear. It coaxed a giggle out of her.

Thank you for your trust. And thank you for giving Lady Mei a chance. She was quite humble when I told her how you felt about her; she wants to thank you in person in the future. And don't worry, I have not told Zabuza about you blushing. You're right in assuming he would never let either of us forget it.

Hmm, I think I am handling our return to the Land of Water well. As you said, my memories of this place are not all fond, though my childhood was not completely without joy and love. I have a few memories I hold onto, mostly of my mother. And Zabuza wasn't nearly as bad of a caretaker as you may believe. His training was demanding and his attitude cold, but there were moments where he treated me as if I were his child. He pretended to be annoyed by it, I think, but I always appreciated those small moments.

She could sense the fond smile on his lips through his words.

However, Mist Village is in a poor state. Worse than I remember it. The Blood Mist Exam may no longer be in effect, but the wide-spread effects of the Fourth Mizukage's reign of terror are everywhere here. Poverty, fear and past scars cannot be hidden by anyone. I see it in their eyes, in their body language and hear it in their voices.

Those who believe the rule of a tyrant or peace through force need only look here to see its cost. They need only look at our people, the abject fear and poverty they struggle in and any wise individual will see this is not a righteous or worthy path to walk. But there are those here who profited during the Fourth's reign who see it as the only means by which to lead.

Zabuza suspects they will one day betray Lady Mei, so I wait with him and watch from the shadows for their true intentions to come to light. And when they do, we will eliminate their influence of the Mist.

Lady Mei is very kind to me. I am one of three young shinobi she has placed in important positions among her counsel. There is Natsumi, her personal assistant and head of her intelligence gatherers; Chōjūrō, a member of the Seven Swordsmen who now serves as a personal bodyguard and adviser; and as you know I am Zabuza's second-in-command in the Anbu as well as an adviser.

We're the future of the Mist, or that is what Lady Mei tells us and others. When she asks for our opinion, she listens with an open mind and scolds any who interrupt us before we can finish our point. I appreciate her willingness to listen.

Zabuza has adjusted well. There is a mutual respect between her and Zabuza, even when they disagree on points. He does fear her, but not as a tyrant. It is a fear of… I'm unsure of how to put it. Lady Mei is a kind and compassionate woman, full of passion to create a brighter future.

Yet, simultaneously, Lady Mei is a kunoichi of incredible power. She is the Mist's strongest shinobi, of that I have no doubt. Zabuza doesn't live in fear of Lady Mei, but he harbors a fear of her power. No, that's not right either. Those who killed my mother feared her power and mine.

Hmm. This is harder to explain than I originally believed. Let me try another way. When Lady Mei first approached us, I sensed her immense power; it irradiates off of her, like an invisible chakra cloak of strength and will, far greater than Zabuza's. And during that encounter I felt her killing intent. Within it I could feel the turmoil that hardened her into the remarkable kunoichi she is.

I would be afraid of Lady Mei if I was her enemy, and any enemy who does not fear her is a fool. I think that's the best way to say it. Does that make sense?

"Completely," Amari said under her breath.

I imagine Kaito will forgive you in time and learn to appreciate his training with the Crows.

She could sense his amused smile.

Amari looked to Kaito. "Hey, are you ever going to forgive me for the training Atsuko put you through?" Feathers slapped her face. "I'll take that as a no," she mumbled in defeat, eye returning to the letter.

Atsuko was very kind, although she had a few curious questions. Nothing to be concerned about, I promise.

I'm sorry for the pain you've experienced in remembering your cousin. I wish there was something I could say or do that could help ease this burden you now carry, but I can only offer condolences, and those alone are not enough.

But you do not need to restrain your emotions when you write to me. Holding it all in is far less healthy, so if you feel comfortable talking to me about it, I will gladly listen.

One day I would like to hear more about your cousin. Perhaps when we see each other again you can tell me about him.

She looked forward to that day.

I have told Lady Mei of this Akatsuki group and all you could tell us. We'll keep our eyes open for them.

As for your A-rank mission to the Land of Snow, Kakashi and Atsuko are right. It's not wrong of you to wish you could have spared his life, but you are not responsible for Sandayū's fate, Amari. He made his choice, and there may be others who do the same. Don't dishonor their sacrifice by making them a burden.

"Please, don't allow his spirit to be another burden you carry. Remember him with joy," she recalled Koyuki's plea.

She would do her best to listen to their advice.

This Kōri also made a choice to walk a path of evil. I know you, Amari. Had you seen something redeemable in her, you wouldn't have killed her. You saw through Zabuza's darkness. You helped set him onto a different path. Do you truly believe you could have changed Kōri?

"No," she whispered.

Whatever you feel now, I will listen. Never forget that. Don't feel as if you are throwing your personal problems on me. As someone who cares about you, I want to help, even if the only thing I can do is listen.

I will be careful.

Try not to be troublesome, Amari. And stay strong. If anyone can overcome this, it's you.

Haku

"Thanks, Haku."

Amari rolled the letter back up and placed it back within the safety of Kaito's carrier pack. There would be time to reply later.

She offered to summon a Crow to take Kaito to their home, but the hawk shook his head furiously and shrieked in obvious displeasure. Taking the hint, she let him rest on her shoulder until her teammates arrived on the upper deck, first Sakura and then Sasuke with Naruto the last to arrive.

She endured through their teasing about her newest "love letter" again before finally the subject changed.

"I'm sooo bored," Naruto groaned as he hung dramatically over the railing. "At least if we were on land I could train, but out here we just have to sit around."

Amari rolled her eye. "First off, at our speed we'll reach the Land of Fire by the end of today, so enjoy this time of relaxation while you can. Once we get back Lady Tsunade will probably have D-rank missions for us to complete."

Sasuke sighed noticeably. "You know, I almost forgot about that."

"Secondly," Amari continued, "who said you can't train out here? Last I checked we all had the ability to walk on water."

Kaito cried out in agreement. Amari winced. Sheesh. He still hadn't learned volume control.

"Oh yeah!" Naruto snapped up, suddenly excited. "Come on guys! Let's spar!"

"I'll sit out," Amari said. Her three teammates looked at her as if she'd grown a second head, only the second head had cat ears and whiskers. "I know. I'm a workaholic. But I need to take it easy until I can have a doctor confirm if I'm fully recovered or not. Channeling chakra consistently to my feet and sparring might agitate my chakra network again.

"But if you three want to spar to stretch your legs, I have an idea to make it tougher on you."

Sasuke cocked an eyebrow up. "I'm listening."

"Well, if we just leave you three to fight, you'll probably forget about the ship we're on and the direction we're traveling. So instead of a free-for-all, only two of you will fight at a time, but every ten seconds the third member will tag in.

"So, for example, if Sasuke and Naruto start, after ten seconds is up Sakura will switch with Sasuke, and when the next ten seconds is up Sasuke will switch with Naruto. Then Naruto switches with Sakura. Sakura switches with Sasuke. So on, such forth."

"In this situation one of us will always be fighting for twenty seconds," Sakura analyzed. "And the ten second intervals give us little breaks in-between to keep up with the ship."

"Right," Amari nodded. "Think of it like a gauntlet. In those ten seconds you'll be fighting at high intensity with the constant threat of a second opponent; it'll be a good workout, a good exercise for chakra control and it'll force you to increase your battlefield awareness. But that's not all I'm going to do to increase the difficulty on you guys."

"Bring it on! We can take whatever you've got!" Naruto cheered.

"We'll see about that, because all three of you will have separate handicaps. Sakura, you can't use chakra to enhance your speed or strength. You'll have to rely on your physical capabilities as they are."

Sakura lowered her head in defeat. "Great."

Naruto snickered first, so Amari snapped her eye to him next. "Naruto, no Rasengan or Shadow Clones."

He slapped his hands to his cheeks and let out a cry of disbelief. Kaito was definitely laughing at him.

"Sasuke, no Chidori, Fire Style or Sharingan."

Her clan-brother's eyebrow twitched in mild annoyance. "I understand the first two, but why the third?" he questioned.

"Notice anything about my stipulations?" she asked the group.

"No ninjutsu or genjutsu," he replied.

"True, but not the whole truth. The real stipulation is no techniques that require chakra, except walking on water. That I can't avoid, given our current training grounds."

Naruto deflated. "Is this a punishment for my joke?"

"No," she answered, shaking her head once. "It's training. Naruto, you rely heavily on Shadow Clones to give you numbers against opponents, but most of the time they end up being cannon fodder and deplete your chakra. You showed a tactical use during your fight with Neji, and you need to keep on that pattern. Fight smarter, not harder.

"Sakura, we used chakra to enhance your speed and strength as a quick but difficult way to improve your abilities. You will still need to train with it, but you also need to improve your physical stamina, endurance and strength.

"And Sasuke, while our Sharingan does not drain our chakra supply all that much, you should still treat it as a tool, not your trump card. Because there may come a time for all of us when we battle a powerful shinobi who pushes us to our very limits, and we may lack the chakra to use a single jutsu, or activate our eyes or enhance our speed and strength.

"Aoi's greatest failure wasn't just his arrogance. That played a starring role, I assure you, but his greatest failure was he had one trick. One power. The Sword of the Thunder Spirit. Once I took that away and he was forced to rely on his physical attributes, he didn't stand a chance against us."

Amari met each of her teammates eyes. "We cannot become a shinobi like him. Think of the Leaf's best Jōnin, or even our greatest adversaries; not a single one relies on one skill alone. My mom is a genjutsu master, but she is also capable of fighting hand to hand combat and dueling blades with Itachi and Aimi Uchiha, and trust me, they were impressive.

"I've seen Kakashi-sensei use Lightning, Earth, Water and Wind ninjutsu, and I wouldn't be surprised if he can use Fire Style too, which means he's capable of using all five Natures. That alone makes him a special genius shinobi, but he also has a Nara level of intelligence and the Sharingan. Asuma-sensei augments his trench knives with his Wind Nature like I do with my Fire Nature, plus he can use a Fire and Wind Style Jutsu. He also has great strength, battlefield awareness and speed.

"And Guy-sensei is insane."

That earned her snorts, snickers and giggles from her teammates. "So this time you guys are going to be fighting as if you've been cut off from your jutsus and your dōjutsu. And when we're back home there'll be plenty of time to refine our other skills and work on gaining new ones."

"Complacency and arrogance is our greatest enemy," Sasuke said with a nod. "All right. I get it."

"We can't afford to rely too heavily on one of our abilities," Sakura agreed.

"Definitely with that Orochimaru and those Akatsuki guys out there," Naruto nodded.

"Exactly. So, Sasuke, Sakura, you start first. Naruto will switch with Sakura after the first ten seconds, and then Sakura with Sasuke, then Sasuke with Naruto. All right? Keep up that pattern, keep the ship's location in mind at all times and I'll offer what help I can through critiquing you guys."

So the sparring began. Amari sat on the railing, calling out the switches at first and offering critiques to technique and moments of second guessing.

Eventually the trio found their rhythm to the point she no longer had to call the switches out. And as the sparring continued, they found their battle rhythm as well and began fighting far more seriously than before.

As Amari nodded to herself, still offering advice now and then, Ibiki watched from his silent post, hidden in plain sight. He, too, nodded to himself.

Yes, she would do well in the future.

"Mom, I'm home!" Amari called.

Silence answered her back as she slipped out of her ninja sandals. Still armed and carrying her traveling pack, Amari meandered quietly into the kitchen, checking the dining table for any evidence of her mother's return. Her letter still sat in the same place, untouched and unread.

"Must be out on her mission," she mumbled to herself.

Leaving the kitchen behind, Amari headed up the stairs to her room, setting her pack down next to her bed before beginning the task of disarming herself. The debrief with the Hokage had gone well; she handed over the Blade of the Thunder Spirit and Boss Jirōchō's scroll while explaining the major bits of the mission.

Their successful capture of Aoi, as well as the restoration of the Wasabi Family's power, earned Team Seven praise by the Hokage, who gave them the rest of the day to recharge and recover after their B-rank turned A-rank mission. Tomorrow they'd be back to work.

Such was the life of a shinobi.

Kaito mysteriously disappeared between their entry into Hokage office and their exit, and when she said mysteriously she meant one of the Crows retrieved him—a fact Osamu found quite humorous when he swooped down to inform her of the hawk's location before departing once more.

Amari made a quick stop to the hospital on the way home, where the doctors treated the lingering damage by her forced jutsu. The Hokage and the doctors gave her quite the reprimanding for it.

Troublesome adults, she thought as she set the last of her ninja gear down.

Amari made her way over to her closet first, grabbing her loose fuchsia V-neck and full mesh long sleeve before heading to her dresser, where she picked out a new pair of black shorts and undergarments. New clothes prepared, she took a trip to the bathroom to freshen up after their journey over the sea and across the Land of Fire.

She savored the shower for all it was worth. Savored the clean clothes and warm lunch she made afterwards even more. She missed being home. Missed the quiet, the peace, the simplicity of doing laundry and cleaning dishes.

It's nice to take it easy.

Of course she needed to keep working on the fūinjutsu technique. She needed to keep training. Keep pushing herself and her peers to get stronger. The Akatsuki were still out there. Orochimaru too. Plus the Foundation. Threats were everywhere, and none would be taking it easy.

But what was the point of life if you didn't live. Shisui implored her to not become overwhelmed by these burdens. He told her to focus on living, on chasing her dream, to take these selfish moments when she could.

Even you found time to have a girlfriend and enjoy yourself, she thought as she grabbed the novel she hadn't finished in the Land of Snow. Even though you were carrying a heavy burden, you didn't let it steal your happiness. I'll train tomorrow. Today I just want to relax.

That's okay…right?

She paused in her doorway, the small book hugged to her chest. It felt wrong, the more she thought about it. Itachi placed his trust in her to keep herself and her peers on a forward path. He was suffering, even if he didn't show it, and she wanted to relax?

How unfair.

Amari frowned and looked down at the book she was hugging. How did one balance work and life? She had never been good at it. Everyone called her a workaholic for reason, after all. And her Shika always said she worked too hard. But when she thought about the threats ahead, about Kasai and those who sacrificed themselves so she could be here, just kicking back felt like a betrayal to their sacrifice.

How did others do it so easily? How had Shisui done it? Or her parents? When so much was riding on their shoulders, how did they balance chasing a dream, living life and the work that needed to be done?

It seemed so difficult. But maybe that's what made it worthwhile.

Amari inhaled a deep breath and fought the urge to turn around to grab her ninja gear.

I'll just train twice as hard tomorrow, she promised herself.

With that promise, she stepped out of her room, headed down to the front door to slip her sandals back on before heading out to find a tree to read under.

In her heart she knew there wouldn't be many of these moments left to her. Sooner rather than later, the other sandal would drop again, and the Akatsuki, Orochimaru or an enemy she didn't even know would attack. And once more she would be battling for her life and the lives of her friends.

Such was the life of a shinobi.

On her walk through the Village, two black bowl cuts caught her attention. The shortest of the pair, still braced on a crutch, noticed her first.

"Ah, Amaririsu! Hello!" Lee greeted, the light in his eyes and smile no longer as clouded by depression as it had been before Lady Tsunade returned.

She offered a quiet wave and smile. Guy, however, did not.

"Amaririsu!" he bellowed with exuberance only he was capable of. She was surprised the nearby windows didn't shake. "What a pleasant surprise it is to see you this bright and youthful afternoon! How was your mission? Mimi said you were leading Team Seven in my eternal rival's absence."

"Oh, yeah, I was," she admitted, bashfully rubbing the back of her neck. "The mission went well. We toppled a corrupt and tyrannical family of gamblers strangling the Land of Tea and captured a Leaf traitor in the process."

I'll have to tell Mimi about it, and thank her again for believing in me.

Lee's eyes widened. "That's amazing!"

"I don't know about ama—"

"Of course it is, Lee," Guy said with a nod, as if she hadn't even spoken. "But would you expect anything less from your rival?"

"No sir!"

"Good!" Guy turned to Lee and lifted his pointer finger up. "If I have learned anything from my rivalry with Kakashi, it's that you should never underestimate what your rival is capable of. Amaririsu will be a formidable opponent, Lee; she's only grown stronger since your first battle, as you know. So once the surgery is complete, you must train twice as hard to match her strength!"

"No, Guy-sensei, I will not train twice as hard."

"Huh? But Lee…"

"I will train three times as hard to overcome her strength!" Lee declared passionately. "And then I will train four times as hard to match you, Guy-sensei!"

"That's the spirit, Lee! But you will have to train harder than that. You're aiming to low. Don't just train to match me. You must embrace your hot-blooded spirit and surpass me! I know my eternal rival," Guy lowered his voice in seriousness. "He will not settle for Amaririsu becoming his equal. He will train her until she surpasses him, which means we must do the same!"

"Yes, Guy-sensei!"

Uh, why do I get the feeling they've forgotten I'm here?

Walking away seemed rude, even if there was a high possibility they had already forgotten her. So she waited quietly, wondering if she should read while waiting. Would that be too rude? Or too much like Kakashi-sensei?

When Guy paused for the slightest moment to breathe, she capitalized on it.

"Uh, well, whenever you're back to health I'll be waiting for your challenge," Amari said.

Guy had definitely forgotten she was there. Lee, on the other hand, looked enthused by her offer. "It will be the first thing I do! No, the second! First I will train to prepare for our challenge, but then I will come straight to you!"

I feel like I'm going to regret saying that.

Amari smiled outwardly and nodded. "I'll be ready. We're rivals, after all. And rival is just another word for friend. You taught me that."

Lee looked like he was sparkling and ready to cry from sheer joy. "Thank you, Amaririsu!" he bowed his head.

Guy clapped a hand on Lee's good shoulder, grinning widely. "Do not worry about Lee, Amaririsu! I will do everything in my power to make Lee the perfect rival for a kunoichi of your caliber!" He gave her a thumbs up. "That's a promise!"

Yep. Definitely going to regret it.

Bidding farewell, Amari left the streets of Konoha behind for a cozy hill where she was finally able to slip out of her sandals to feel the blades of grass beneath her feet as she laid on the bed of green. In one hand she held her book above her head. The other she used to brace her head.

On that isolated hill, away from the Village and responsibilities, she lost herself in the fluffy romance of a redheaded space Commander and master thief. One day, she hoped, she wouldn't only read about love, but find it herself.

One day.

Tsunade stood in her office at the big picture window behind her desk, looking out at the rest of Konoha with a thoughtful expression on her face.

Everyone to witness the Exams and Invasion held the same opinion; quite frankly, she was the only one holding out. She hadn't seen any of it, and being so new to her office meant she hadn't seen the full capabilities of the next generation.

This wasn't a decision to be made lightly. Lives could be lost. Their blood would be on her hands too if this gamble fell through.

But so far all of her personal bets against the decision were the only ones to fall apart. Even Ibiki, who she believed would harbor the greatest doubts, held firm in his confidence in the abilities of the Genins in question. She expected it from their Sensei's, but not every single proctor of the Exams; even Hiashi Hyūga praised them for their abilities and actions during the Invasion.

Tsunade bit the inside of her lip. It felt too soon. To push them into positions of leadership when they were still so young…

Are they really ready so soon?

Had she been? Or Jiraiya or Orochimaru? Was anyone ever ready?

The Genins passed her tests without realizing she was testing them. So, what was she waiting for? For one of them to make the slightest mistake so she could have an excuse not to promote them? As some skewed way of protecting them?

I'm too late for that.

These kids didn't need her to protect them from the reality of shinobi life. They faced it already, more than once. And with Orochimaru and the Akatsuki out there, these kids had no choice but to keep facing it.

Heaving a heavy sigh, Tsunade turned away from the window and walked back to her desk, her heels clicking with every step. She leaned her crossed arms onto the back of her seat and rested against the tucked in chair, a frown on her lips as she looked at the pictures of the Genins in question laid out on her desk.

Each experienced. Each intelligent. Each already seen as leaders among their peers.

"You'd want me to trust in the next generation, wouldn't you, Sarutobi-sensei?" she asked to the air.

After a brief moment of silence, she chuckled to herself.

"All right. I'll give them a chance."