Gently, Sakura placed the cookies down on the decorative paper, arranging them in a way to prevent any breakage. Once satisfied, she cut a length of ribbon, tying them shut neatly and examining them.

Fresh-baked treats in cute paper. If she said so herself, it had all turned out well. She only hoped the recipient thought so too. "Thank you for letting me use your kitchen."

Naoko had just bitten into one of the cookies from an early batch, munching away. The Uchiha tossed her a thumbs up. "I still say there was nothing wrong with the earlier ones, but I shouldn't complain about getting any extras."

Sakura had confidence in her baking, but she wanted the ones she presented to turn out just right, so it took three tries before she was content.

"You might be right, but it's been a while since I've done this." Sakura sighed, thinking back to her academy years. She had wanted to make Sasuke some sweet treat and win his affection through the power of baking from the heart more than once, but the prospect made her shy. Then, after declaring Ino her rival in love, Sakura had vowed to go through with it…until finding out that he disliked sweets.

She had been so relieved not to have made the costly mistake. It almost gave her sympathy toward the girl who had found out the hard way by bringing him a slice of homemade cake and being rejected in front of the class.

After Sasuke defected and the boys of Konoha 11 went to chase after him, Sakura had baked for the other girls who were left behind, as a pick up. They'd all eaten cookies and shared their worries with each other.

Realizing that it had brought the girls closer during a difficult time, Sakura vowed to one day bake with all of Team 7 in attendance. She'd simply find a recipe Sasuke would tolerate. It was a desire that had never been fulfilled, and now here she was, feeling strangely nervous as she stared at her signature butter cookies.

"They came from you. I promise you that'll be more than enough to impress him." Sakura blinked, having almost forgotten Naoko was still there.

"Right, thanks again."

"Anytime," she finished off the last cookie she had been snacking on. "Now go, go…better take those to him while they're still warm."

ASiT

Sakura could feel the familiar, uncomfortable sensation of butterflies in her stomach and clammy palms. She didn't know where the sudden jitters had come from, but she needed to get it under control or risk making a fool of herself.

As it turned, locating one person was a harder task than she anticipated. By the time she got a lock on his whereabouts, Sakura felt a little winded, but just as determined to see it through as when she'd started.

Spotting her intended target, the pinkette sucked in a breath, ready to call out when she was intercepted and he disappeared from view. Several young women crowded around him from nowhere, Sakura huffing in dismay, even if she only had herself to blame for being too slow.

She watched as they brandished flowers, baked goods and shiny little boxes cupped in their hands. "Happy birthday, Izuna-kun!" one exclaimed, her voice a sweet hum. Sakura squinted, taking in her perfectly made up face and shiny nails.

"These are for you!"

Izuna suddenly had his arms full, juggling the bouquet in the crook, close to his chest and balancing the small cakes in his other hand. The tiny trinkets were slipped into his pockets, which were stuffed in no time. He listened with a gentlemanly smile as they explained why they had chosen the flowers in the arrangement and promised him the cake would be delicious, made fresh that morning.

'There goes any originality in my idea.' Sakura sighed quietly to herself, staring broodingly at the treats she'd prepared. When she looked up, the girls were leaving, giggling as they walked off, talking excitedly between themselves.

Seizing her opportunity before anymore doubts could take hold, Sakura jogged over, ignoring the glances the departing girls threw her. "Izuna!" He had just started to walk away, but turned immediately at the sound of his name.

They hadn't really seen each other since he had returned late at night from his trip, and upon locking gazes his expression changed from confused to happy.

The effect was contagious, Sakura feeling her own lips curling up at the thought of someone being so content at her mere presence.

"Sakura, I'm glad you're here."

"I should be saying that to you," she replied, "You're weren't easy to find."

"You were looking for me?" Izuna asked innocently. "Any particular reason?"

Sakura laughed, a little awkwardly, shuffling the cookies between her hands. "I heard this is a pretty big day for you. I…I don't know if you'll like these, and it's fine if you don't…just something I made, so it's not really a big deal, but," She clicked her teeth. Somehow as he patiently waited through her rambling, his eyes growing brighter, it made everything worse. "Happy birthday!" Sakura bent at the waist, unable to look him in the eye as she thrust the cookies out at him as if she were presenting some priceless treasure.

All she heard was silence, followed by a soft chuckle. Her heart plummeted to her feet, rejection feeling even weightier than she remembered it. "I'd love to try some,"

Unsure she'd heard him right, Sakura lifted her head. "Really?"

"You made them just for me. How could I not?" he retorted. "But, with my hands full like this, it might be kind of difficult…"

"Oh," Sakura felt a little foolish, jumping to the cynical conclusion she had. "I didn't think of that. Should I just drop them off at your house later?"

"Actually," Izuna drew a little closer, "I was thinking I could eat one right now if you helped me."

"Help?" Slowly, Sakura's muddled thoughts came together, causing a little color to darken her cheeks. "Do you mean….feed you?"

"If that's alright with you," Izuna stared past her bashfully.

Sakura plucked at the string holding the cookies in their wrapping. "Well, why not?" The question was meant to be light-hearted, but it cracked just a little from her nervousness. Hoping he hadn't noticed, Sakura gingerly lifted one of the little cookies up, and Izuna bent forward, biting into it. The pinkette waited with baited breath for him to tell her what he thought. Of course she had downplayed the effort but a lot of hard work and care actually went into getting them just right—but only because it had been a while since she baked!

"These are," he paused, mulling his words over. Sakura figured he was searching for a nice way to tell her they were terrible. Instead, he swiped his tongue at the corner of his mouth, where there had been a few crumbs, "the best cookies I can ever remember having."

Sakura's snort of surprise made them both pause, Izuna grinning while she tried to hide her face. "Y-You don't have to be so courteous just to spare my feelings." Secretly, though, she was a mixture of relieved and elated. It had been a long time since she'd looked into Izuna's face and thought of Sasuke. They were two completely separate people, uncanny resemblance notwithstanding. But, deep down maybe a small part of her had imagined Izuna's beautiful features freezing over in cold dismissal at the presentation of something as trivial as home-baked cookies.

Quirking a brow, Izuna sighed. "You know, before meeting you I thought I was the worst person I knew at accepting compliments." He opened his mouth, gesturing down with his eyes at the remaining half of cookie held between her fingers. Sakura obliged, freezing up when his full lips briefly wrapped around her fingertips. Sparks shot from the pads of her fingers all the way up her arm and to the tips of her ears.

"Have some confidence in your skills," he reprimanded lightly, "I can taste the warmth and attentiveness of the person who made them for me, but the precise amounts of hazelnut and the pinch of lemon don't hurt either." he winked.

Sakura had to refrain from gaping, a little amazed that he'd gotten it right. "Thank you, I'm glad they turned out well." A small, silent cheer went up in her head for how evenly she'd managed to speak, even if he made her insides feel like mush. So much sincerity from such a pretty man was more than she was used to, and probably always would be.

"No," The smell of the very same hazelnut Izuna detected wafted into her nose as he leant closer, his eyes fixed and hooded as he stared deeply at her. Sakura, mesmerized as if by some hypnotic force beyond her control, took in the length of his lashes and the plumpness of his pink mouth. The mouth that was very close to her own. "Thank you for thinking of me. Thank you for baking me cookies that taste like home. Thank you for everything you've done in the last half year."

'W-What's he doing?' The pinkette could feel her heart flopping around like a fish stranded on shore, waiting to be put out of its misery or tossed back out to sea. 'The more important question is, why am I not moving away?'

As their mouths nearly connected, Sakura practically able to taste what she was sure would be incredible softness, she realized with a panicked start that the answer was, she didn't want to. "I-Izuna…"

"Izuna-sama!" They pulled from each other so suddenly, it was a wonder they didn't butt heads. A pack of children were sprinting toward them, Kagami in the lead, oblivious smiles on their faces.

Sakura took several large steps back, trembling at what had almost happened.

"I guess I'm pretty popular today," Izuna mused, turning his attention to the young Uchiha.

"Happy birthday!" They cheered.

"Thank you," Whatever had possessed Izuna to act that way had passed, replaced by the humble, genial man Sakura knew. "I'm happy my cute students remember me when they're so busy with the academy now."

"Of course we remember," One of the little girls giggled, rolling her eyes. "You've been training us since we could first hold weapons." Given a clan like the Uchiha, Sakura surmised that was pretty young.

"Anyway, we put something together for you. It's a surprise!" A second girl chirped as her twin nodded eagerly.

"A big surprise, so come see!"

Sakura watched as a tall boy took the little cakes from him, and Kagami reached for Izuna's hand.

"Alright, alright!" Izuna was clearly amused by their enthusiasm, not really fighting it as they tugged him away. "Just give me one minute and I'll be right there, I promise."

They groaned, but bounced back quickly, telling him not to take long and then darting off as rapidly as they appeared.

Izuna stared at her, a tiny but contented smile settled on his lips. "Looks like I'm being summoned."

Sakura swallowed the tiny knot in her throat, nodding as she tried to find words. "It looks that way. You'd better go, they might not let you off with a warning if they have to come back for you."

"Knowing those kids, you're probably right, but…" Glancing down at the flowers still in his arms, Izuna worked one of the small, flowering grasses that was acting as a complimentary plant in the bouquet, pulling a bloomed sprig off the end free. Nonchalantly, he then reached out and tucked it behind her ear.

Sakura stilled, barely registering when he worked a second, different type of flower from the bouquet into her hand. As it started to slip, he gently clasped his hand around hers until her fingers closed. "Between your trips out of the village and mine, it feels like one tea session wasn't enough to catch up. I want to talk more later when we both have time, maybe pick up the conversation where we left off."

Sakura's breathing hitched, redness crawling swiftly up her neck when he kissed two of his fingers and pressed them softly to her cheek. Gently taking the rest of the cookies from her, he waved. "See you later, Sakura."

'Does he really mean…where we left off just now?' Squeezing her eyes shut, the girl shook her head from side to side. He couldn't have, it was just a spur of the moment thing, and there wasn't going to be much talking going on if it actually happened.

Watching his back, Sakura reached into her pocket, nearly forgetting her real gift. "Oh! Izuna, wait!" Scrambling forward, the kunoichi nearly dropped the gift she had chosen with so much consideration.

"What's this?" he accepted it all the same, examining its wrapping.

"I know it's not much, maybe not even as nice as some of the other things you've already gotten, but I thought…it would at least be practical." Sakura explained, managing to avoid stuttering.

For some reason, talking to Izuna was making her feel more tongue-tied than usual. It could have been her recent revelation that she was interacting with such attractive men all the time, and several of them had gotten a little more hands-on of late. It could have also just been the interrupted moment Sakura would chalk up to well, excitement about…the cookies? Admittedly that didn't make a whole lot of sense.

"Sakura," He hooked a finger under her chin, his countenance full of assurance. "I just told you to have a little more faith in yourself. Your gifts are always thoughtful, so I'm sure I'll be pleased with it."

No words left in her large vocabulary, Sakura could only nod dumbly. Izuna departed after giving her hand one final squeeze.

More confused than ever, Sakura stared down at the flower she was still holding. A gladiolus. Thanks to helping Ino out for a summer in her family's flower shop, she knew the meaning. They didn't really grow in Fire Country but grew in abundance on the fringes of a small neighboring country. A traveling merchant specializing in plants and blossoms had given Ino's parents some seeds and they were able to successfully cultivate some for a season.

According to her friend, they meant strength of character and conviction. The girls who had given it to Izuna thought highly of him, and had probably gone to great lengths to procure them for the bouquet.

It almost made her feel bad to be holding one, when they were meant for someone else. Ino always imparted upon her the importance of the arrangement being kept together once it was made to really get the giver's feelings across to the recipient.

Maybe it wasn't right, considering the flowers weren't meant for her, and maybe it was silly to feel a little giddy that he had chosen to give her a gladiolus, when he might not have even known he was indirectly praising her.

Just when she thought she was safe…

Sakura knew she had to get herself under control. She couldn't go back on her promise to herself just like that. Who knows what would have happened if the kids hadn't come along when they did. She really owed them.

'They should be keeping him preoccupied for a while with their big surprise,' Which meant, if Madara was around, it would be an ideal time to talk to him about why he hadn't made any contribution to the joint party effort. Sure, he might not have been too enamored with doing something nice for Tobirama, but Izuna was his brother and it was only fair that he helped.

While she had the time and opportunity, maybe a little visit to his house was in order. The only issue was deciding if that was a smart idea or not. Madara was a cunning one, always slyly getting closer to her before she had time to blink. Her last encounter with him had completely left her reeling.

He was so much different, almost soft, and helpful in his own way. If Izuna was supposed to be the "safe" brother to be around, then what had just happened? If her pounding heart had any say, he wasn't safe at all! Izuna being bold while Madara was…strangely gentle? She understood them and their actions less than ever.

'I might as well get this over with while I'm here.' Mind made up, Sakura just hoped that Madara was in a reasonable mood.


In spite of knowing he had remained in bed far longer than intended, Madara felt the furthest thing from rested. Kicking out of the futon, his body sagged under the weight of exhaustion, muscles stiff as he stretched.

He ran a hand through his hair, scratching idly as he shuffled from his bedroom. Today was an important day, his mind tried to tell him. The reason didn't really start to filter into his thoughts until he dragged himself into an empty common room, realizing that Izuna must not have been home.

'Izuna!' Yes, that was what it was. Izuna's birthday. How could it have slipped his mind so thoroughly? When his brother returned home, he'd give him the gift he had been stashing away, and hope he was in an agreeable mood. Izuna had never been particular about his birthday or demanded any special treatment.

Normally, because of the way they grew up, he was use to making do with some sweets and a new sword if he needed one. As he got older, friends within the clan would also contribute small presents, and hopeful admirers would lavish him in attention. Izuna being Izuna took it all in stride, accepting the attention with humility.

The clan head had only just settled himself at the table, chewing listlessly on an onigiri and sipping at some lukewarm tea left out, when the demanding sound of knocking on the front door almost made him bite his tongue.

Grunting, Madara roughly sat his food aside, taking his cup and marching to the front door with a scowl. He hadn't even bothered finding a shirt to put on, but he was far past the point of caring. Whoever was knocking had come to his house, banging on his door like he owed them something. They should consider themselves lucky he chose to grace them with his presence at all, half-dressed or not.

The wooden barrier between him and the outside world swung open, and Madara made sure to fill the space with his slouched frame immediately. A determined Haruno stood huffing and puffing, her knuckles, which had been ready to knock again, skimming across his naked torso in momentary surprise.

Recoiling, she hopped back, eying his skeptically. "Did you…just wake up?"

"No," Madara replied smoothly, sipping his tea.

"So you walk around half-naked with bedhead after being awake all day?"

Madara stared her down, unflinchingly, though he resisted the urge to tussle his hair into place. "That's my business." Figuring he could already guess why she came, he tossed a glance over his shoulder back into the empty house. "Izuna's gone out. He might still be around the compound, though he'll be quite sought after today." Trailed by giggling young women hoping to offer him their affection.

"I've already seen Izuna," Haruno sighed with a small shake of her head. It was then that Madara noticed the stem she was twiddling in her hands, and the piece of grass with its tiny blossoms tucked into her hair. He couldn't help but take a long glance at it, a long-forgotten memory bubbling up at the plant's appearance.

Madara sat on the floor next to his two younger brothers. A woman leaning over the edge of a table crammed full of various flowers he couldn't name was inspecting the young faces staring up at her, eyes catching on the three boys sitting in the back of the room.

Feeling uneasy, the eldest leaned over to whisper as soon as she was distracted. "Why are we here again? What are we ever going to use this for?"

Izuna gave him a little shrug, patting Sanna's arm. Their younger brother was completely attentive to what the instructor was doing, mimicking her twining motions with empty hands. "Sanna was curious about ikebana, and he asked if we'd come along."

To say Madara was put out that he was wasting time that could be spent improving his falconry was an understatement. "We're boys! We don't need to learn about bouquet arrangements—that's for kunoichi!"

Sanna's attention shot to them at his brother's small outburst, his big eyes full of dejection.

Izuna gave Madara a sharp pinch in the side. "Ssh!" Smiling gently at their frowning brother, he rubbed his back. "Don't listen to him. He's just trying to leave before everybody realizes the clan heir has two left thumbs and can't tell an iris from a spider lily."

That got the youngest to smile a little, though Madara couldn't be more baffled. "A what from a what?"

"Lord Madara!"

The oldest boy was ashamed to admit the woman's booming voice made him jump, his name coming from her lips like a sharp crack against his cheek.

She stood at the front of the room with a hand on her hips, glaring at him from the bridge of her oval spectacles. It wasn't often he saw an Uchiha wearing glasses, but he had relatives that told him overuse of the Sharingan was bad for the eyes, so he supposed it happened from time to time.

"All your chatter must mean you've taken in everything I've just done here, so please come and demonstrate the proper arrangement."

Not bothering to hide his shock, Madara pointed at himself, jaw slack. "Me? I have to do it?"

"Yes," Tapping her foot impatiently, the woman (was her name Hinagiku-san? Hinakuji-san?) adjusted her glasses. "I wouldn't think such a thing was above our future clan head if he was humble enough to join us today."

Puffing his chest, Madara got to his feet. He couldn't exactly challenge this woman like he'd challenge someone his own age who disrespected him, not in battle at least. But, she had rubbed his pride the wrong way, and he refused to stand for it.

All eyes were on him as he made his way to the front of the classroom, his brothers staring at him in teasing anticipation while the girls around them swooned when he met eyes with some of them.

"Okay, I can totally do this." Madara smirked, "What kind of bouquet do you want?"

Hinagiku-san—he was convinced that was her name—motioned to the wide variety laid before him. "Select four of these and make me a bouquet that signifies a message of confidence and victory."

The room was silent enough to hear a mouse sneeze as Madara carefully plucked up the first flower that looked 'confident' to him, then slowly chose four more. Putting his choices in an empty vase on the table, he stood back and waited for her to judge.

Hinagiku surveyed the bouquet, her eyes shrewd, and tutted quietly under her breath. "You see, this is an excellent example of why we must always be mindful of the secret language flowers are speaking. Are you telling your allies you're confident you can secure victory or confessing your love?"

Madara's eyes jumped between her unimpressed face and his flowers. He didn't think they looked wrong, but what did he know? "What do you mean? Those flowers are—"

"All wrong!" Hinagiku snapped, plucking out the first one and waving it in his face. "This flower is the blue violet, a symbol of faith, intuition…and love. The next you chose were these forget-me-nots, another indicator of true love, full of warm memories involving the recipient." Madara's face blanched as her bony fingers examined the next flower in his bouquet. The yellow daffodil...hm, it in itself does not particularly signify love, but new beginnings." Madara was almost tempted to take a secret sigh of relief. "However! Coupled with your last choice, which is not a flower but a flowering grass known as the clovenlip toadflax, one might assume you are hopeful for new beginnings with the one you love."

Madara could feel his face heat ruby, topics like love being the last thing he cared about. "W-Whatever! You have to be making some of this stuff up. Flowers can't really say all that!" he protested.

"Wrong again!" She wacked him across the bridge of his nose with the grass in her hand, forcing a sneeze from him. "The clovenlip toadflax is a plea to the recipient one might say—'please notice my feelings for you'! Feelings of desire for a new beginning with a true love judging by the rest of this arrangement. If you wanted to send strong feelings of affection, you've succeeded. But who can tell me what the correct choices would have been?"

A tall girl in the front row raised her arm. "Yes, Rina?"

"I personally would have used the nemophila, because they mean victory and success. I would have paired them with the spirea for good fortune and the gladiolus for strength and courage."

"Exactly." Hinagiku's face briefly lifted in a thin smile.

The lesson was so humiliating to his young ego, it had always lurked in the back of his mind, dormant until the moment he spied the clovenlip toadflax in Haruno's hair. 'Please notice my feelings for you, eh?' While it could have very well been a coincidence, Madara didn't rule out his brother's sneaky charms. He sold himself as a considerate gentleman normally, but he still had Uchiha blood coursing through his veins, which meant he could still be accordingly bold when it came to something he was after.

Haruno didn't act like she had any inkling, though. Humorous that a woman named after such a well-known blossom would be oblivious to the language of flowers.

"Have you heard anything I said?" she glared.

All he could manage was a slow blink in the face of her fiery stare. She knew he hadn't heard a word, and lying would only get her more annoyed. Not very long ago, Madara would have loved to see the heights he could push her temper to, but sticking with his new resolution required avoiding that.

"I figured," Haruno grumbled, focusing on the flower again. His brother really always was one step ahead. But, she said she had already run into Izuna, so…what could she be here for? "I know it hasn't slipped your mind what today is, right?"

It was Madara's turn to get a little indignant. What kind of brother did she take him for? Yes, she was right that it had slipped his mind, but only briefly. "What kind of rhetorical question is that, Haruno? I hope you didn't show up just to chastise me for forgetting an event I'm already perfectly aware of."

She rolled her eyes, "Fine, you remembered. What about the actual party coming up. I know Naoko's mentioned it to you."

"Oh, that." He should've known when he kept brushing off requests from Naoko and Hashirama to get involved, Haruno would be up next. "I don't know why I'd need to participate in something that frivolous." Finishing off his tea, he raised his arm above his head, resting it on open door. "Celebrating those two together is asking for the night to end in blows."

Aside from keeping an eye out for any swirls of mutiny in the midst of the clan, Madara's sleepless nights had been catching up to him, giving him little time to think of much else but the jumble of images he saw. As much as he loathed to think that unstable goddess could have predicted this, it appeared her warning had credence.

Understanding what was happening, he now took careful note of everywhere he seemed to be traveling to. More scenes of battle with that blonde Senju woman and the others, and a new image of him stabbing a young man that looked frightfully alike to Izuna.

Then there were the moments hardest to grasp, the ghost of warm touches, the flashes of pink, the smiling, blurry faces gathered around a large table. If he squinted, he could almost try to make guesses at their identities. At first, Madara assumed he was seeing his family, Izuna, Koya, Kamin and Sanna with his parents.

But there were too many people unaccounted for, and the adult and child ratio was skewed. His soul bounced too rapidly for him to recall much else aside from a deep contentment settled into the pits of his bones.

Those always felt too fleeting, and he would wake up grasping blindly for a body that wasn't next to his, a hand he wanted to hold for a reason completely unknown to him.

Vexing as all that was, what was…perhaps the most disturbing were the times when he saw a young boy, heavily bandaged as if most of his body had been sutured back together just barely. Madara had also seen a strange white being, a tuft of green hair and spiked protrusions from its oddly shapeless torso and back.

Looking down, he had reeled back at the sight of weathered hands, tugged and felt the brittle, white hair on his head. And a deep, croaky voice had echoed through his skull, as alarmed as he was. "Who goes there? You feel familiar and yet…not."

The Uchiha had clumsily rocketed himself back home, to his own time and his current body, willing all the experiences he was having to cease, or at least make more sense. But every night they kept coming with more frequency, and he was starting to get the impression he was in over his head. Not that it was something he could share with anyone.

"Are you…okay?" Somehow, Madara hadn't felt himself start to sway until Haruno was there, pressing down on both his shoulders as she leaned up to steady him. "Is something going on with you?" Her voice took on the sharp, clinical tone he had gotten use to when she monitored his amnesia, but if he strained his ears hard enough, it sounded colored by more worry than before.

"It's touching of you to ask, but there's no need." Although he attempted to dismiss it with a simple smirk, he knew Haruno was far too intelligent and feisty to leave it at that.

"Then why did you look ready to collapse?" In a move that caught him off guard, she swung one of his arms around her shoulders, allowing him to lean his weight on her and all but marching them back inside.

Madara couldn't believe how easily he got manhandled by someone half his size when she felt like it. Haruno's touch was always so commanding yet…

She yelped, nearly stumbling when he squeezed her closer, pressing her body flat to his and simply taking a minute to absorb what he was feeling. That touch that wouldn't leave his head, and the way Haruno sometimes touched him subconsciously…underneath the firm touch of a medic there was a concerned one. Thinking about it, they were almost like two sides to the same coin.

She wiggled, gasping indignantly. "Madara, what are you up to now?"

Not knowing what possessed him, but not wanting to let the opportunity pass, Madara lifted his other arm, placing it around the dip of her spine until his nose almost brushed her hair as he leaned down.

Yes…without a doubt, this was—

Sensing he was due for an incoming slap, he spoke quickly. "I'll go along with it, but don't be surprised when it ends disastrously."

For a split second, Haruno stilled. "Go along with…it?"

"This…celebration Hashirama, Naoko and I'm assuming you have planned. Expecting Izuna and Tobirama to come together in the same room is asking a lot, even for you."

Squirming until she had enough space to tilt her chin back, Haruno peered up at him with perplexed green eyes. "What's that supposed to me—"

"Is that all you came to ask?"

"Hey! I asked you a question first."

Gently pushing her away, Madara stared at his empty cup. "I'll take that as confirmation." Yawning a little, he strolled the short distance to the table in the front room. "You're welcome to stay if you'd like but don't voice any complaints when I start getting undressed."

"U-Undressed? You're barely dressed now." she pointed out.

"True," His shoulder joint popped as he rolled it. "But I can't bathe in pants."

The pink hue to her cheek and extremely large eyes were priceless.

When he slipped a thumb into his waistband, half-contemplating undressing on his way down the hall as he normally did, Haruno's outraged shriek followed him. Something smacked him hard in the back of the head—a pillow from the floor she had picked up. "Shannaro! I know it's your house and all but have some respect in the presence of a lady!"

In spite of the throbbing pain he was sure would culminate in a knot—how did she do that?—Madara let a genuine laugh pass his lips. So easy to fluster, but he never got bored.

"Have I ever told you how utterly fascinating I find you, Haruno?"

"No," she snipped. "But it's easy enough to tell. I guess if you're going to participate in helping us plan then I can go."

"Hm," The second Madara heard the door shut, he tugged his pants down and stepped out of them. "One day, I'll be sure you find me fascinating too."


It took a while to find the right opportunity. It was fifteen minutes after Yurine-sensei dismissed everyone, and lots of kids were still lingering in the classroom, grumbling about homework or telling their friends what they hoped was waiting on the dinner table when they got home.

As for Reira, she had set her sights on a particular student, and he didn't seem interested in hanging around for idle talk. During class hours, he was polite, responding with respect and showing himself to be very articulate and well-mannered.

She knew some girls were already starting to look at him the way they looked at Kagami. Boys too, for that matter. The ones who didn't look on with envy.

But, the mysterious allure of the new boy was offset by his cousin's imposing presence. Hibari was never far from his side, and she was more blunt—though completely emotionless—about her wishes to keep everyone at a distance.

Reira tried to squeeze by her classmates as Hibari cleared a path that Haruchika walked through with ease.

"Uh, wait!" she called out, waving her hand through the air. Unsurprisingly, they didn't stop. The Senju wasn't even sure if they knew she was talking to them, whether because of the volume in the classroom or just because they existed in their own world anyway.

Once they had slipped out into the halls, Reira followed with some difficulty. Other classes were emptying at the same time, and despite students wanting to give the Hyuga cousins a wide berth, the gap closed quickly as soon as they passed by. "Reira, what's the rush?"

Feeling guilty, said girl realized she had fled the classroom without even waiting on her friends. Biwako, Kagami and Chisato were trying to follow her, but getting just as squished as she had been.

Cupping her hands around her mouth, she shouted out a hasty apology. "Sorry, I'll meet up with you outside, okay?"

Shrugging, her friends waved, escaping the chaotic hallway.

Eyes in search of her target again, Reira expected they would be long gone, but as she finally managed to make it through the condensed, narrow space, she saw the back of Haruchika's head. He had such long, silky hair for a boy. Unconsciously, she combed her fingers through the end of her own braid. She couldn't compete with hair that pretty. Just as she was about to risk calling out to him and getting the cold shoulder, she noticed someone talking to them. Danzo Shimura, ugh. He was always the first to leave class and he hardly said a word to anyone, except sometimes Hiruzen. Since their run-in with him a while ago, he had left Reira and her friends alone, perhaps figuring when their numbers grew it wasn't worth it.

Reira tried to have a generally optimistic attitude and give everyone the benefit of the doubt, but something about the coldness in Danzo's eyes always rubbed her the wrong way.

Flattening herself to hide behind a corner, she watched the interaction tentatively. Haruchika wasn't the friendliest person in class so far, but he wasn't an outright bully like Danzo. Hopefully, he wasn't thinking about becoming friends with him or something.

"...The Hyuga is an elite clan," Danzo was saying. "That's what my father's told me. The Shimura are far above ordinary clans as well. That's why I make a habit of only associating with others from prestigious clans on the level ours are. Anything short of that would be an embarrassment to my family's legacy, wouldn't you agree?"

By the time her classmate had finished speaking, Reira could feel her clenched fist shaking. 'That Danzo...he's such a jerk. He goes out of his way to look down on others, and he thinks he can get away with it just because he's smart and spars well.'

She was so irritated, Reira almost missed Haruchika's response, barely hearing a quiet click of his tongue. "You think very highly of your family status, don't you? I asume you approached me because it would be advantageous if we were friends?"

Danzo lifted his chin, a rare look of approval flashing across his features. "You understand then? Yes, one day we'll both lead our respective clans, and I'm interested in securing allies now."

"I see," Haruchika nodded sensibly, and Reira twitched. He was really going to befriend someone slimy like Danzo just because it would look good. "That's all well and good but I have to ask..." The long-haired boy stepped closer, whispering something so faint Reira had to employ the trick she'd learned from Toka and push chakra to her ears. "...that your friendship has anything I can benefit from?"

Although she hadn't caught it all, she clearly saw Danzo recoil as if stunned, the self assured expression falling away. His eye twitched, leveling the Hyuga with a slight glare. "What?"

"I'm pretty sure you heard me the first time." Something strange overcame the normally proper, well-spoken boy, Reira's breath catching in her throat. A shadow fell across his face, full lips fixing into a snarl. It was hard to tell from where she was but she could almost swear that an errant strand of hair on top of his head was sticking straight up, the way a cat's puffed tail stood on end before it swiped. "You think you're close to my level simply because you have a clan name? Do you think you even register to me?"

Reira very rarely agreed with Danzo on much, or anything, but she couldn't blame him for being stupefied. Haruchika's aura had shifted into something nearly manic. His cousin stood stoically at his side, saying nothing, not so much as a cheek muscle moving. "It's almost pitiful, you know? Up until now you've gone through life thinking you're above commoners because you grew up grasping a sword, but let me be the first person ever to relieve you of that delusion. You aren't much different than them. Beneath, as a matter of fact. In short, there's nothing I could gain from allying myself with you."

Reira gulped, trying to remain quiet. For some reason her knees were knocking. She didn't know what had happened to the quiet, polite, slightly stuck-up boy, but this person seemed to take delight in delivering every line. It wasn't that Danzo didn't deserve it. He was habitually cruel, much like Manabu, feeling entitled to treat students like poor Kikue or Biwako as dirt beneath his heel. Seeing him get a taste of his own medicine was...satisfying, but whatever personality shift the princely Hyuga had undergone was almost too chilling to fully appreciate it.

"You'll...you'll regret this." Danzo vowed, his dark eyes glittering as he spoke through clenched teeth.

A sharp crack of laughter slipped from Haruchika's lips before he caged it again, surging forward to seize the front of the other boy's shirt. "Will I?" he sang, their foreheads almost touching. "Alright then, please keep that promise. I'll be waiting for whatever exquisite payback you come up with, just so long as it's interesting." Releasing the clenched fabric, he spun on his heel, hands behind his back. Danzo glowered, running out the side door into the courtyard.

Reira began to flail in panic, notice the Hyuga coming her way. She quickly ducked behind the wall, ready to dash off to meet her friends and forget what she'd seen. The pain of her nose ramming right into someone's chin had her cringing, attempting to shield it from further harm. "Saw all that, did you?"

All the saliva instantly evaporated from her mouth, tongue sticking to the roof of it under the steely gaze of Haruchika's pearly orbs.

"I...but you were just..." Reira pointed blindly behind her, sure there was no way he could have popped up. She wasn't as strong as she wanted to be but she definitely had enough training to sense him before he got the jump on her, right? "A-Are you a sensor-type?"

"No," he scoffed, the ominious feeling surrounding him gone once again. Now he was just aloof, untouchable Haruchika Hyuga again. Except he was speaking to her, something he hadn't done since that first day she'd made a fool of herself by assuming he was sightless. "Your breathing is horribly loud. I didn't need any special skills to know you were there."

Caught red-handed, Reira took a hesitant step back, only to think better of it. 'He was so scary just now. He'd probably find out where I live and kill me in my sleep.'

"Absolutely not. That's both barbaric and a waste of time."

'D-Did he read my mind?!' Clamping her hands to her face, terror really began to set in.

"What's with that stupid face? You were speaking out loud." She didn't need to read his mind to see he was getting fed up. "Anyway, you owe me an explanation. What did you hope to gain by following me, and spying on a conversation that didn't concern you?"

"S-Spying?" Reira squealed, toying with her hair. "Me? Nope! I just...I didn't get a chance to talk to you since your first day, b-because you know...you always...ignore everyone." She winced, but he didn't appear to take offense. "But I saw you were busy and didn't want to interrupt so!" Waving her hands around, she began to jog in place. "Anyway, gotta run! My friends are waiting outside to see me. A-Alive and stuff."

"I hate people who can't be direct." Haruchika sighed, folding his arms. "Why did you want to speak to me?"

"Just to..." Unsure where she had gotten the habit, she poked the tips of her index fingers together, avoiding his face entirely, "...say I'm sorry. F-For offending you back then. You know, thinking you were blind and all."

"Oh? That." He sounded...like he'd forgotten until just then.

'Way to go Reira!' she silently reprimanded herself. 'Remind him why you were the first person he decided he hates!'

"It was so ignorant it caught me off guard."

The Senju's face felt hot, though she supposed she deserved it. That's what she got for making blind assumptions...

"That being said, I'd already forgotten about it. I mean, one look at you and I could tell you're a simple-minded girl."

Nodding along, a slow smile began to form. "Great! So there aren't any hard feel...wait, did you just call me stupid?!" Red crept up her neck for an entirely different reason, and despite wondering if she would be any sort of match for him (especially in light of his super scary side) Reira began to size him up for a fight.

"I believe I called you simple-minded." Haruchika corrected, "Make of that what you will. If that's all you wanted, then I think this talk has reached its conclusion."

His cousin Hibari stepped aside, and he began to walk in front of her, down a now deserted hall. Reira could feel her blood boiling. The nerve of that guy! What a piece of...

"Oh, Raya, was it?" The boy asked, his hair swishing as he stopped.

Consequences forgotten, the irked girl stomped her foot. "It's Rei–"

"It goes without saying that what you saw? Well, better for you if you pretend you didn't."

She knew she really should just leave well enough alone, but feeling defiant, Reira shook her head with a hard pout. "Yeah? And what if I don't agree to that?"

"I'll...leave it to your imagination." A smirk curled his lips all the way up on both sides, and a flash of whatever she had seen not long ago resurfaced before sinking deep down again.

A full body shiver overtook her, and she said nothing as the Hyuga made their departure. "What. A. Weirdo."

Refusing to dwell on it anymore, Reira rubbed her arms and dashed out of the academy, making sure to go in the opposite direction.


Toka felt...fidgety. It was a rare feeling, and one she would never expect to find her in this situation. Safe inside the village walls, waiting in the academy courtyard for students to begin trickling out, and yet...the amount of anxiety accumulating in her breast was something she hadn't experienced since her first mission.

What was there to fear so much? Facing Reira, the girl she had raised as her own, shouldn't have given her this feeling. It had been so long since she had come to pick up her niece, who preferred to walk around the village with friends before coming home more and more.

They had a...tentative truce so to speak. Hashirama had nudged Reira into communicating with her again, but it was nothing like it use to be, and Toka's heart ached for the adoring smiles and clingy hugs.

She knew she had lost some of the little girl's trust, waiting so long and still refusing to divulge any solid information. There just didn't seem to be a right time, but deep down she had known for a long time that was an excuse.

It was her job to have hard conversations with Reira, as a stand in for her parents. After all, it was Toka's fault she had been orphaned in the first place...

So, today they would go to the Akimichi clan's restaurant and get the yakiniku Reira adored, and on the way home they would talk, and Toka would be straightforward. Even if...nothing was ever the same again, and the child she had come to love so much ended up hating her.

Hyper aware of her surroundings, it didn't take much for her ears to pick up scuttling from a nearby tree. Toka expected to find a busy chipmunk or squirrel when she glanced over, but ended up jumping in a rare loss of composure at the giant insect steadily climbing the bark.

"That is a kabutomushi, also known as the King of Insects." From the shadows, a hooded man with blackish-blue bangs that hung to obscure his eyes had appeared, hands stuffed in his pockets. Despite being certain they had never met, he was familiar. "Why?" he went on, as if his appearance was totally natural, "Because they're magnificent and incredibly popular among insect enthusiasts. That specimen crawling in front of us is a mature male, given his defined horns. At a glance he's approximately 65 millimeters, not the largest, but above average nonetheless."

Moving closer to the beetle, which he seemed to know an awful lot about, the man held out his palm, and Toka watched the bug walk right onto it. "He has incredible lifting power with this horn, able to fling challengers to defend his territory or a mate. Sadly, most of his life cycle is already complete. He's emerged from underground in his adult form and will only survive another four months or so. It's quite rare he's active now, because this is a nocturnal species." The beetle scurried right up his arm, but he didn't seem to mind.

"You...certainly have an impressively extensive knowledge on them." Toka said politely.

"Yes, I..." The young man stared down at the bug, then at her (she could only assume with his eyes blocked from her view). "I'm sorry. I don't know why I keep doing this." Setting the beetle back on the tree, they watched it go on its way. "I couldn't help but notice you looking particularly melancholy. I...I'm not much for conversation, usually, but sometimes when I'm nervous, all that comes out are insect facts."

Toka tilted her head, studying him anew. He was an odd character, wearing a baggy tan coat that had to have been making him a little warm under the collar. On closer inspection, the buttons of his coat were in the shape of beetles, and if she had to guess, she would pin him as being the same age as her, standing a few inches taller. He spoke with a slightly deep voice that had a chalky quality. It was hard to see many defining features with his coat in the way, but that dark hair and demeanor was making him feel less and less like a stranger. "I'm Tomoya Aburame." And just then it clicked, this man bearing a striking resemblance to Reira's friend Chisato.

"It's nice to meet you." Toka bowed. "I'm Toka Senju." Clearing her throat, she took another look at his buttons. "You wouldn't by chance have any relation to Chisato?"

The minute the words left her mouth, she regretted them. How stupid. Of course he did. They resembled each other so strongly and were from the same clan. Here and there, people poked fun at how stiff she was about making casual conversation. She'd tried her best to improve over the years, but awkwardness followed around like a cloud above her head. Maybe that was why she wasn't immediately put off by Tomoya's strange manner.

"Yes, she happens to be my younger sister." Given his age, that made more sense than him claiming to be a parent. "Would it be correct to assume that you are Reira's aunt?"

"Yes, I am," Her face softened, "Given how close the girls are, it's strange we're only meeting for the first time now."

"True, but late is better than never." Tomoya commented. "I wish to compliment you. Reira has proven to be an excellent friend to Chisato, who often struggles relating to those outside our family. You've raised her to be open-minded."

While her first instinct was to deny her part in Reira's accepting personality, Toka chose to take the comment in stride, nodding shallowly. It wouldn't do to air her own inadequacies in child-rearing with someone she had only just met. "Thank you. Chisato is a patient friend who handles all of Reira's energy well."

After that exchange, they both stood there, Toka having a hard time knowing what to say to carry the conversation further. She didn't see herself as charismatic or particularly friendly like Hashirama nor did she have Reira's aptitude for blowing past obstacles with guts and cheerfulness. Outside of combat situations or positions of leadership she had very few social qualities.

Before either of them could make an attempt at restarting the conversation, the first sounds of raucous voices filtered outside. They turned in unison, finding happy academy students pouring from the building, some walking home with friends while others met relatives that had started to appear to collect them.

Toka watched the multitude of bobbing heads, trying to spot any signs of Reira. Instead, she saw some of her niece's friends make their way over. Chisato greeting her brother with a rare smile.

He held open his arms, and she calmly walked into them, hugging his midsection. "Brother," she whispered, stepping away. "I didn't think you'd come today."

"I returned from my trip to study the migration of the citrus long-horned beetle in Keishi, and told mother I would like to meet you today."

However invisible her eyes may have been, Toka had no trouble imagining how they must have lit up. The only outward sign of her excitement was a noticeable twitch. Glancing back at her friends, the girl moved closer to her brother. "Would it be alright if we walked home together another time?"

"You don't need to ask us," a composed girl wearing a flower headband replied. "There will be plenty of opportunities to engage in casual merriment together."

"What Biwako means is, don't worry about us, just enjoy spending time with your brother." Kagami Uchiha urged.

Having gotten the blessings of her friends, Chisato latched onto her brother's arm.

Tomoya studied the children. "You've made good friends who understand you."

"Yes." Chisato's normally quiet voice lifted in pride.

Toka couldn't help the small, sharp prick of envy. Though both reserved people, it was evident the Aburame siblings were close. Close enough to not need words to convey that they were happy to be together. Was it even possible for she and Reira to be that way again?

"It was nice meeting you, Toka-san. Thank you for entertaining my talk about the kabutomushi."

"You know, Chisato's pretty mysterious, but she really takes her bonds seriously." Kagami remarked, watching them leave.

"Yes, just the other day Chisato-san came to my aid when a rather, erm, large flying insect set its sights on me in the courtyard." Biwako mumbled.

Kagami raised a brow, staring at her in curiosity. "Biwako...are you...scared of bugs?"

"N-No!" she defended entirely too quickly. "I'm training to be a first-rate shinobi. The mere notion is preposterous. I just prefer to avoid them." A light dusting of pink fell over her cheeks. "Especially those that fly, scurry, bite, jump or hide in corners."

"That sounds like a pretty detailed list for someone who's not scared." Kagami grinned.

"I am not afraid!" Biwako protested. Shifting a book she was holding higher under her arm, she turned up her nose. "I'm going home. My parents need my assistance selling wares today."

The Uchiha hummed in realization. "Oh yeah, they're merchants, aren't they?"

"Yes, and the evening crowds will be gathering soon." Biwako met Toka's eyes, surprising her with a very respectful bow. "I apologize for not introducing myself immediately. I am Biwako Hagino, a classmate and friend of Reira's."

Something about Biwako reminded Toka of herself as a girl. "Toka Senju. Thank you for being Reira's friend."

"It has been...a worthwhile experience." Biwako smiled a little shyly. "Don't forget about our assignment for the evening, Kagami. Goodbye, Senju-san."

She walked off before Toka could correct her on the formality. "I wonder what's keeping Reira so long." Kagami mused, voicing both their thoughts aloud. "We were all going to stop by the tea shop for dango, but I guess if you're here, Toka-san, then you must be taking her home."

"That's right," Toka confirmed. "Though...you're more than welcome to join us if you wish." It was cowardice talking, inviting a friend Reira was comfortable with to ease the atmosphere and stall for the right words just that little bit longer. Kagami, oblivious to her worries, only shook his head with a polite smile.

"Thanks! But that's alright. I wouldn't want to impose. You two don't get very much time to catch up, do you?" Toka sputtered. He wasn't wrong. Did Reira tell her friends about the strain on their relationship, or was it that obvious. "I'm going to go home and help my grandmother with a few chores, then start on the assignment Yurine-sensei gave us. Would you please remind Reira about it?" Toka noticed his backpack, undoubtedly filled with all the materials and books he would need. She and Mei-san both harped on Reira to take her studies seriously, but it was hard to get her interested in bookwork. She had much more of a fixation with the applied lessons, like sparring and survival training.

"Yes," The Senju said, "Of course."

"Great! I'm sure she'll be out soon." Kagami took another peek back at the building. Most of the students had come out and dispersed, but she was sure Reira wasn't the only straggler. "Hang in there, Toka-san." The boy pumped his fist in a gesture that was very reminiscent of what Reira did often.

He sprinted off with a final wave, leaving Toka to question if she should head inside to look for her niece.


Sakura felt like she was showing her face at clan compounds so frequently these days, that soon Naoko's teasing about people mistaking her as a new member would have credence. She could just see the whispers start about how a random pink-haired girl had married into one of the village's two most prominent ninja families.

To think in the past she was hesitant to go anywhere near the Senju or Uchiha grounds unless she had official business. Now, it felt much more like it did when she went to visit friends, some of which just so happened to belong to big shinobi clans.

The sentries never asked her to state her purpose for visiting anymore, waving her in with nods. The atmosphere never felt oppressing or hostile. Even those that didn't speak to her showed her kindness, and Sakura had long since memorized exactly where she was going.

Mei-san wasn't around to usher her in, but she supposed that made sense considering she wasn't visiting one of the main halls where clan members congregated for meetings and sometimes large gatherings that involved feasts and celebrations.

Instead Sakura hardly had time to knock on the door before Tobirama was opening it, dressed casually in a comfortable all black outfit. Not for the first time, Sakura couldn't help thinking domesticity was a flattering look on him. "Aren't you early?"

"You were still waiting." she quipped, watching him try to hide the barely-there pink on his cheeks. The last time she had come looking for him, he was nowhere to be found, though he did later apologize, genuinely surprised he had forgotten he would be training Kikue that day. Sakura knew she was a soft touch, but she couldn't hold it against him for long.

"You should be more gracious to me as your host." he insisted, allowing her inside. Sakura bent down and removed her shoes, popping back up only to ram right into his chin.

"Ouch," she hissed, Tobirama rubbing his chin with a little wince. "You don't have to stand so close." Just over a month ago, it seemed he thought no distance was too far away from her. Now, she found he constantly drifted into her personal space almost as if he didn't even realize it. The pinkette always assumed that after their journey together it didn't feel strange to him. They had once inhabited each other's bodies, however briefly. That crossed a certain boundary most people wouldn't be able to fathom, or find possible for that matter.

Instead of something snappy, he mumbled out a "sorry" that sounded just short of sheepish. Poking at him to ask why he found it so necessary to trail her so closely was tempting, but Sakura decided to be charitable and drop the matter. "It's fine. We're going to be working side by side the rest of the evening anyway. I hope you're ready to get a work out."

Tobirama looked at her as if to say she was being dramatic, though he solemnly dawned his white apron. "We'll see."

Because he was so meticulous in every way, it was unsurprising that he had already laid out all the needed ingredients before her arrival. They had agreed on the dish beforehand, Tobirama claiming that on occasion random Senju still complimented the meal they had made together during the pox. Sakura thought it was his indirect way of asking for a cooking lesson, so she suggested that they try preparing something else on an evening they were both free. That something else ended up being oyakodon.

Sakura examined the skinned chicken laying ready to be used in satisfaction. It was a nice cut, not too lean or too fatty. While she prepared the saucepan, Tobirama was in charge of pre-chopping the vegetables. The kunoichi began by pouring the dashi stock into the pan, followed by sugar, soy sauce, sake, and mirin. It was an easy combination to remember after all the times she had helped her mother make it for dinner.

Even when she was a little girl and completely unskilled and clumsy to boot, she was allowed to stand on a stool and add the mixture into a skillet. The kunoichi had considered getting the Senju to do it, but part of her didn't trust him not to toss aside or half the ingredients claiming they served no nutritional value. The whole purpose of this "lesson" was to drive home the point that meals were allowed to be flavorful. The heavens forbid Tobirama was ever left in charge of a large meal by himself.

Sure enough, he had something to say as soon as she broke open the sake bottle. "Is the alcohol really necessary?" he grumbled, eying what she was doing but still skillfully chopping.

"Are you kidding?" Sakura gaped. "This is a classic sweet and savory combination. It's a necessary base to get the flavor profile right."

Finished chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces, he started in on the onion. "I still can't say I understand why you care so much about this, but I also know you'll do what you want regardless."

Sakura couldn't help feeling a little smug, glad he recognized there was no way out of doing it her way. "Alright," she stirred the contents of the pan a little. "While we wait for this to boil. Let's recap. I'm sure you've made this before, but since we're handling it my way this time," Sakura placed her hands to her chest with a grin, ignoring Tobirama's sour expression, "I want to be sure you get the most out of the lesson."

"Aren't you taking this too seriously?" he drawled, cutting up the green onion and then checking in on the rice that had been quietly steaming.

"Maybe you're not taking this seriously enough," Sakura countered, using her best haughty tone. It would have been unfathomable to banter back and forth like this with him in the past, but now it came so easily. "This is boiling well enough. I think we can go ahead and add in the meat and onions."

Taking that as his cue, Tobirama left the rice behind and carefully placed the large onion slices neatly in the simmering pan, then positioned the sliced chicken around it to cook evenly. Sakura nodded in approval, peering around him. "Now we—"

"Say goodbye to any semblance of peace." he interrupted cynically.

"Yes, now we say goodbye to...huh? No, the recipe doesn't call for that." Sakura was bemused, until she felt it too. No sooner had the powerful chakra signature registered than a curious face popped up in the doorway. Though it was clear the aim was discretion, Hashirama didn't do that well.

"Why are you here?" Tobirama demanded, not looking the least bit excited. "Eat a meal in your office for a change."

"I eat meals in my office almost every day, but dinner's are special." Sakura had to hand it to him, he always knew just the right angle to make himself pitiful when needed. The big, lost eyes worked for him. "Can't I make time to be the company of family?"

Unsympathetic, the younger brother made a shooing motion. "Family doesn't want your company."

"But you do, don't you, Sakura-san?" Two sets of eyes fell to her, and Sakura felt her spine go ramrod straight. Why did she always end up in this position?

"Er, I don't mind..."

"What've I told you about using Sakura as your shield?"

"I just think if she's here, then you shouldn't have the final say on the matter." Hashirama had already eased his way into the kitchen, sniffing the air appreciatively. "I can't remember the last time your cooking made my mouth water this much."

Tobirama might have looked much scarier had he not been in his apron, but he still held his cooking knife, which helped maintain some level of intimidation factor. "Where are Toka and Reira? I don't see them clamoring around the kitchen like hungry mice."

"They won't be joining us tonight. Toka's taking Reira to one of her favorite restaurants, so it'll just be the three of us." Taking another long sniff, Hashirama's eyes brightened. "Are you making oyakodon?"

"Trying to," Sakura told him. "I'm just want to make sure Tobirama understands the importance of seasoning."

Hashirama looked at her sagely. "That's a difficult task for anyone, and Tobirama's not the most compliant student. Don't take it as a reflection of your teaching skills if he doesn't get it right away."

"Oi," The younger brother barked, beginning to beat a few eggs in a small bowl. "If you're going to stand around sucking up oxygen, at least make yourself useful and get the rice ready."

Some people would have bristled at being ordered around, but Hashirama never seemed to give it a second thought, simply complying. As Sakura looked on, they worked seamlessly, though the Hokage couldn't help making a comment or two to goad his brother. By the time they sat around the table with steaming bowls in front of them, Sakura was salivating a little herself, and ready to dig in.

It was a good thing they had opted to make a large portion, enough to feed at least five people and accomodate a desire for seconds. Sakura was only halfway through her first bowl when Hashirama started in on his second. Tobirama eyed his brother, disgruntled, but didn't bother to reprimand him. After spending all their lives together, it had to be a common sight at mealtimes.

When he raised his face, there was rice stuck to it, and Sakura wondered how much of the food he tasted when so much of it didn't make it to his mouth. Use to messy eaters thanks to Naruto, she casually handed him a napkin, trying to hide the crackle of energy she felt when their fingers brushed by rubbing her hand on her thigh. "This is a great meal, Sakura-san."

"I can't take all the credit. Tobirama trusted me enough to follow my instructions."

"This time." the white-haired man added.

Hashirama shrugged. "I'm just saying, it's something I wouldn't mind coming home to every night."

Sakura nearly choked on her mouthful of rice and egg. It was like these men custom tailored every sentence to fluster her. When he confessed something like that with so much reverence, it made her imagine something she knew could never be. She use to think about that future with Sasuke often enough, determined that she would one day give him a home full of all the happiness he had lost in his childhood.

That was such a far-off, foolish wish. She knew better now. Sasuke didn't want that from her. He wanted her to keep her distance, and she had to wryly give herself credit for doing such a great job. They were practically worlds apart.

Sakura shook out of that gloomy line of thought, only to find both brothers watching her, though they looked away when she looked up. She thought she caught a flicker of a sad smile from Hashirama. "One day I hope I can find out where you go when you get lost in your head. It seems lonely."

Tobirama didn't say anything, but his eyes held a somber, gentle sort of light that had been coming out more recently. She had come to recognize it as his concern.

"Hm?" Sakura played off their worries with a laugh she knew wasn't convincing anyone. "When you mentioned coming home to eat meals like this every night, I wondered if I remembered to feed Usamaro today, that's all." Sakura never forgot about Usamaro. He wouldn't let her. But she couldn't tell them the truth. That she thought she would be ill-suited to the role of nurturing wife. Too brash, too busy, and now stranded back in time indefinitely, more impossible than ever.


They really all thought they were being so clever, even as they snuck around in plain sight. Hashirama was terrible at hiding things (at least from him), for starters, and Naoko Uchiha had been making far too many appearances. Sakura definitely knew what was happening, but she scuttled away any time he set out to question her, possibly because she worried she wouldn't be able to remain tight lipped. With enough applied pressure, her lies tended to fall apart on the spot, an attribute of her honest character.

That was probably why they all agreed on the indirect approach. Tobirama stared down at the note he received, telling him he was being summoned to the Hokage Tower. Did Hashirama really think for a second he wasn't onto him? Not the least bit suspicious?

That suspicion only grew when he climbed the stairs, as per the note's request, only to find Izuna staring skeptically at the door to Hashirama's receiving room and a large amount of chakra signatures inside.

"What is this?" he demanded, the Uchiha tossing him an exasperated look.

"You think I'm anymore clued in than you are? I got some cryptic message and haven't been able to locate anyone with answers all day. The note I received said I'd find out everything I needed to know once I arrived here this evening."

As much as he hated to be in the same predicament as the Uchiha, Tobirama couldn't deny he was begrudgingly curious. Just a little. Clearly everyone around them had gone to great lengths to arrange whatever was waiting for them behind that door.

"After you, then." Tobirama lifted his chin in the room's direction.

"As much as I wouldn't mind relishing this rare moment of consideration for me," Izuna fiddled restlessly with a flashy inro attached to the obi Uchiha favored wearing with their high-collared shirts, "I'll have to insist you go first. You're older."

"What does that have to do with anything?" Tobirama was growing impatient, both with the situation and with arguing pointlessly in the hall.

"The man closest to the grave shouldn't be afraid to look the unknown in the eyes, even if it might be the end of him."

Tobirama grit his teeth. Everyone thought Izuna was so much more mannerly than his brother, but that was only for show in his experience. "If I recall, the one closest to the grave the last time we crossed blades was–"

"Quit bickering and get in here!" They both perked up at Sakura's voice, glancing between each other and reaching for the doorknob simultaneously.


This chapter commemorates the story's fourth year of being published. In four years a lot has changed both with me as a writer and as a person. This is the longest fanfic I have ever written and I'm pretty certain the fic wouldn't have made it this far without the support of the readers new and old. I've overcome a lot of doubts, naysayers, occasional writer's block and lots of time constraints to keep writing. It's been a memorable experience with me building this universe within the fic and continuing to get to know the characters more as I write them. Feel free to let me know what the story means to you and what you've found to be the most memorable chapters or scenes as you've read through.

On that note, Izuna and Sakura were…so close, but gotta tease out that big moment a little while longer. I have always been very interested in the language of flowers. I have several books on the topic and think it's fascinating how many different cultures have given different plants and flowers deep meanings for a very, very long time.

Is Haruchika kinda unhinged...uuuuhhhh-huh. I did say these were not going to resemble the two Hyuga characters from canon very much. I really did come to adore Haruchika when I drafted him up and hope readers eventually will too.

I promise that the Reira and Toka subplot has great significance!

Meanwhile, Sakura continues to get herself into some heart-racing moments from her doting love interests, but if you think she seems melancholy about love now, just wait. XD But I promise it gets better. This long and at times angsty tale is guaranteed to have a happy ending. Not gonna live our girl miserable.

An inro or "stamp case" is a case for holding small objects that was very popular with men starting in the Sengoku period. They kind of substitued for pockets when someone was wearing a garment without them, and eventually because of the fact that they can be made of fancy materials like ivory (ethics of this aside) they became a status symbol among wealthy merchants, high-class samurai, nobles, etc. They can be very detailed and usually hang attached to an obi. They can be decorated with an intricate gold lacquer pattern known as maki-e or even ivory inlay. The designs had a number of subjects, such as abstract symbols, clan crests, figures from mythology, scenes from popular folktales, and much more. An inro hangs from its owners obi by a netsuke, which can be described as "a kind of toggle that is passed between the sash and pants and then hooked over the top of the sash to suspend the inro".

Even the netsuke could be made distinct and fancy out of pricy materials like ivory or silver, etc, meaning they could be just as valuable separately or attached to the inro and many are commonly in the shapes of animals but you can have other things. Lastly, a ojime is a bead on the cord between the inro and the netsuke. And yes, you guessed it, these beads can be specially crafted too, and as little as they are, talented artists are sometimes able to depict entire scenes on them.

In conclusion, this is a relatively small but very meaningful, pricy gift. What does Tobirama get for enduring this joint-birthday craziness besides a headache? Find out soon. XD