Hello! I've been busy with college, so this chapter took a bit longer than usual to release. However, I did make it lengthier, so I hope you enjoy. Comments are always appreciated as well! Also, this may be one of the last chapters containing just Reina and the Ashikaga clan. So, thank you for your patience.

-Spliced

***THE FOLLOWING CHAPTER CONTAINS ADULT CONTENT. READER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.***

Almost a year had gone by since Reina joined the Ashikaga clan. She was finally a normal weight. Her appearance and character improved dramatically. Reina was well-received by the clansmen and had already grown to adore them. They had protected her and reassured her every day, earning her trust and admiration.

Reina sat in a room with numerous plants hanging from the ceiling or standing on the wooden floor. The sliding door to the room was opened, revealing a zen, rock garden which she stared into almost hypnotically. "I think I've come a long way."

Kimi, who was sitting to Reina's right, turned to face her as she spoke. "I believe so as well. You haven't had any power outbursts. You've been mentally and physical stable. I believe we should have a check-in once a month instead of twice a week. How does that sound?"

Reina nodded. "I like the sound of that." She said as she continued looking off into the garden. The sun was beginning to set and she smiled at the pink and orange cast of light. "I'm very thankful for everyone in the clan and everything you've done. It means a lot to me."

Kimi smiled at her and gave her a delicate hug from the side. "We love you too, Reina." She let go of her and stood up. "I say it's about time we get ready for dinner. I don't know about you, but I'm starving."

Reina giggled and got on her feet as well. "I'm always hungry."

The two ladies began walking down the hall, away from the room. They were about to go their separate ways when Kimi called to Reina. "Oh, and Reina!" She watched as the teenager spun around to face her. "If you need me, do not hesitate to ask for help… And wear something cute tonight."

Reina nodded. "I shall… Wait something cute?" She looked puzzled.

"Yes, my dear. You'll see why in a bit." With that, Kimi walked down the hall until she disappeared.

"Alright then…" Reina shrugged and went to her bedroom.

Reina was walking down a hallway to the main dining room when she saw pink and white flower pedals lining the floor and candles lit every few steps of the way. She heard commotion coming from the dining room and hurried to get in on the action. Reina stopped at the door and then opened it with an eager grin. She stepped in with a wide smile. "What's all the commo-"

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOO YOU! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOO YOU!" The clan began to sing to her as Nao and Han grabbed the frozen girl from either side and walked her over to the head of the table. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEAR REINA! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOO YOU!"

Reina clapped with everyone as they concluded the song. Her shocked expression was priceless. During her rehabilitation with the clan, she completely forgot about her birthday. It simply wasn't a priority. To be completely frank, it never was. Tears began to well up in her eyes, but she blinked them away and began laughing at everyone's cheers.

Nao smiled and put an arm around her waist. "Are you happy?"

"Of course I am! I completely forgot it was my birthday today!" Reina exclaimed earning a chuckled form the crowd. "Thank you so much, everyone. This is so special. I never would've thought I was going to get to celebrate my birthday like this."

Shinji stepped forward and set a box down on the table in front of her. "Well, we're glad we could deliver, but now it's time to open presents. Have a seat."

Reina shook her head. "No, this isn't necessary. It's too much."

"Come on!"

"Open it!"

"You've earned it!" The clansmen said as they urged her to open her present.

Reina sat down reluctantly, but was also giddy to open her presents. "Okay, here goes." She tore open the wrapping paper to reveal a smooth, black box. She lifted the top off to reveal a new kimono. It was white with silver flower petals hand stitched into the fabric. It came with a pale pink obi and cherry blossom hairpin. Reina's face slowly lit up as she felt and examined the fabric.

"We know you may not have many occasions to wear it, but we thought you would enjoy an elegant garment such as this." Kimi said with a sweet smile. "We also got it a little bigger than your current size since you're still growing."

Reina looked up at Kimi and Shinji. "Thank you, I love it." She stood up and gave them a hug with both of her arms simultaneously. She gently wrapped her arms around them and squeezed. They returned her hug with warmth and love until she let go. Reina continued unwrapping presents until all of them were done. "Thank you everyone, I appreciate the gifts."

"Now, let's get some food going." Shinji said as they opened the sliding door attached to the dining room to reveal food being cooked outside, just how they did during Nao's birthday.

Reina's mouth watered as the smell of meat hit her nose. "Oh, my body is ready."

Nao snuck up on Reina and gave her a hug from behind. "Happy Birthday, Reina." He said in her ear as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

Reina smiled and turned to head to face him. "Thanks, Nao." She looked into his eyes with a twinkle. They stared deeply into each other as if allowing one another into their hearts.

All of a sudden the two of them felt a jolt as Han hip-checked them, ruined their moment. "Come on, lovebirds! It's time to eat." Han teased as he pulled them outside.

The clan ate, danced, and drank in the coolness of the November night with no care in the world. Reina enjoyed her time with everyone, but mainly focused on stuffing her face. As the night grew older, it was time to wrap up the party. Everyone cleaned up and went to bed, all except for Reina and Nao.

Reina was walking down the outdoor hallway to her room when she saw Nao leaning against a railing with his arms crossed. "Nao?" She called softly as not to disturb anyone sleeping.

"It's about time you showed up." He said slyly as he walked over to her. "Mind if I come in?"

Reina blushed and shook her head. "N-no, I don't mind." She opened the sliding door and let him in before quietly shutting it behind him. She lit a few candles to illuminate the room before turning to face Nao. "So… what brings you here so late?"

Nao sat down on her bed and patted next to him. "Come sit."

Reina shuffled over to him and sat down next to the blond boy. "What's up?" She asked with genuine curiosity.

Nao pulled a small package out from behind him and held it out. "Here. It's for you."

Reina looked down at the package and raised her eyebrows with surprise. "Oh? You shouldn't have." She took the package from his hands and looked him in the eyes. "Really. Just you being nice to me and being a great friend has done so much."

Nao shook his head in protest. "I had to. You did the same for me and I didn't want you to think I didn't get anything for you or don't care enough. What kind of- friend would I be?" He smiled and nudged her arm. "Go on. Open it."

Reina grinned as she began to unwrap the twine holding the package together. "You doing this in private, because you didn't want other people to judge your present?" She teased.

"I'm not you! Thank you very much." He retorted with a pout. "I just wanted it to be sentimental like when you gave me my birthday present." Nao lifted the scarf that was on his neck to show her. "I always wear it."

Reina smiled. "That's nice of you." She unwrapped the paper and stopped as she stared at the contents. "What is this?" She said with a giggle. "It's so cute?" Reina reached with her hand and pulled out a teddy bear. It had visible stitches, button eyes, and was super plump and soft.

Nao blushed and turned his head away. He looked down at the floor. "I know it's not much of anything. I wanted to make you something like you did for me."

Reina looked at him in amazement. "You made this?"

Nao turned to her and nodded while rubbing the back of his neck. "Yep! It took a long time, but I wanted it to have character and actually look okay."

"It's perfect. I love it." She leaned in and gave him a hug, wrapping her arms around his neck and nuzzling his face in his scarf.

Nao hesitated before wrapping his arms around her waist. When they pulled apart he grabbed the teddy bear and held it by its arms. "So, now, when you're sad or lonely or scared, you can hold onto this guy and think of me."

Reina nodded." I like that idea. Does he have a name?"

"Oh!" Nao handed her the teddy bear, feet first. "His name is Tadao. It means sincere or loyal man. He'll forever be yours and will forever be by your side, especially when I can't be."

Reina hugged Tadao and then looked up at Nao. "Thanks again…" She smiled and moved to sit at the edge of the bed, closer to Nao. "So, is there anything else you came for?" She inquired.

Nao looked at her and closed his eyes slowly before opening them again. "There is one more thing…"

Reina tilted her head. "And what might that be?"

Nao grabbed her hand and held it in his. He looked her in the eyes and spoke. "I like you, Reina… and I have a feeling that you like me…"

Reina's heart began to pound in her chest like a caged bird waiting to be released after a millennium of imprisonment. "G-go on."

"Will you be mine?" Nao said swiftly and softly.

Reina closed her eyes softly. "Nao…"

Nao leaned back defensively. "I-I mean- If you don't want to, you don't have to. I could've TOTALLY misread everything."

Reina tilted her head up toward him and opened her eyes. "I would love to be yours."

"It's fine then. I'll just- wait… what?" Nao blushed. "You want to be my- girlfriend?"

Reina nodded. "Yes, I've wanted to be for some time now." She said sweetly. "U-unless I completely misread everything." She mocked.

"Oh, now you're just being a dick!" Nao laughed. "Seriously?"

Reina reached up and pulled Nao in by the scarf. "Yes." She said while looking into his eyes. She leaned in and smoothly moved her face to the side to kiss his cheek. Pulling away, she looked at Nao's face.

Nao had a look of both pleasure and dismay. "You tease!" He accused and watched as she stood up to place Tadao on her dresser.

Reina set the bear down. "So, what?" She turned around to look at Nao, but met his chest instead. "You're fast."

Nao tilted her chin up toward him as he snaked an arm around her waist. "That I am." He said smoothly before leaning down and kissing her on the lips.

Reina held Nao's arm with one hand and placed the other hand on his chest as they continued to kiss. The two pulled apart before leaning in form more. Reina dragged her tongue long his bottom lip before kissing him. She tilted her head and leaned further in as his grip tightened on her. She bit his bottom lip, earning small moan from him. Nao moved his hand that was on her chin to her long brown hair and grabbed a fist full against her scalp. He pulled her in more by pressing her head forward. Nao pulled away from her so she could catch her breath and started kissing down her jawline toward her neck. He let his lips graze the soft skin on her neck before giving a gentle kiss. Reina moaned with excitement as she felt his tongue lick her soft spot. She gasped and held onto him tighter as he trailed his way back up to her lips. They looked into each other's eyes and gave a few soft kisses before pulling apart.

Reina blushed and looked down at Nao's chest before looking back into his eyes. "We should probably stop."

Nao nodded. "Yeah, sorry. I didn't mean to get carried away."

"No, I liked it." Reina smirked and gave him one small peck. "Wanna stay for a bit?"

Nao smiled. "Sure."

Reina walked him over to her bed and the two laid there and cuddled for some time. When Reina fell asleep, Nao quietly got up as not to disturb her. He was about to reach for the door when he smirked to himself. He walked over to Reina's dresser and grabbed Tadao. Gently, he slid the bear in Reina's arms and smiled at his crafty work. He turned around and left Reina to herself for the evening.

Months went by and Reina and Nao became increasingly closer. They would spend lots of time together, including training together. By this point the entire clan new that they were a couple and supported their bond. They let them be and were polite about their choice. It helped that Nao and Reina weren't publicly displaying affection like star-crossed lovers every minute of every day, as they were rather mature about their relationship.

One evening during the spring, Rein and Nao were walking through a field of tulips that were beginning to blossom. As night grew closer, the two walked back to the Ashikaga estate hand in hand. When they made their way back, the two entered Reina's room and began chatting and relaxing. It seemed like that was their usual routine.

Reina was sprawled out on her bed as Nao sat on her dresser. She stared up at the ceiling as she spoke. "Nao, do you think I'll be strong and have purpose one day?"

Nao furrowed his brows, perplexed by her question. "Of course. I think you're powerful already, but as time continues you'll be even stronger…" He hopped off the dresser and began walking over to her. "In regards to your purpose, well, that's up to you. You can change your life purpose or it can change before you realize it… It depends on what you set your mind to or if you even have a specific mindset at all." He sat down on the edge of the bed. "Why do you ask?"

Reina shrugged. "I guess I just wanted your input." She sat up and crossed her legs. "You could say I'm insecure about my strength and where I'm going and what life has in store for me. I don't mean to prattle. It's just, compared to my brothers… sometimes I feel like I'm a mistake."

Nao folded one leg up on the bed to face Reina. "Reina, you're not a mistake. Whether you know it or not, you are here for a reason- you just need to manifest it." He leaned in and gave her light peck on the lips. "As for your power, I don't know what it truly is. Your power could also lie in your character. You've grown from your past experiences, correct?"

Reina nodded. "Yeah, I guess."

"Well, if that's the case then you're already on the right track." Nao smiled. He looked down at the sheets and then back up at Reina.

Reina blushed and looked at her hands. "Thanks, Nao."

Nao leaned in and kissed her. Reina kissed back and pulled away softly. Nao smirked. "Scooch back."

Reina moved back and pressed her body up against her pillows and headboard. "Why?"

Before she could say anything, Nao crawled between her now extended legs and kissed her lips. "That's why."

Reina closed her eyes and kissed him back. Nao grabbed her chin with one hand and supported himself with the other. He licked her lips slowly and sensually before kissing her. He swirled his tongue inside her mouth and continued kissing her feverishly. Reina moaned into the kiss returned his favor as their lips met and tongues mingled. She felt herself getting hot as the intensity grew. She bit his lip before gently pulling away. The two panted and looked at each other.

Nao looked Reina in the eyes and placed his hand on her cheek. "Reina…"

"Yes?" She said breathily.

"Do you trust me?" Nao asked seductively.

Reina nodded. "Yes…"

"Lay down." Nao commanded as he got of the bed. He took his scarf and shirt off and threw it to the ground.

Reina blushed as she laid herself down on the bed. She blushed as Nao climbed on top of her. He leaned down and began kissing her again. He trailed his lips down her neck and to her collarbone. Nao pulled away and grabbed at the hem of Reina's shirt. He lifted her shirt up and over her head, revealing her black bra. He continued kissing down her chest as he slid his hand under her back and unclasped her bra. Nao took her bra off and threw it to the side.

Reina blushed and immediately covered her breasts with her arms. "Ah!" She gasped nervously.

Nao bent down and gave her a sweet kiss. "Don't worry. I'm not here to judge you. You're beautiful, Reina. Show it." He sat up and gently pulled her arms away. "That's more like it." He said as he stared at her perky breasts. Nao began to kiss her left breast as he fondled the right. He sucked on her nipple and flicked it with his tongue.

Reina moaned and tossed her head to the side. "N-Nao…"

"There's no need to be bashful. Weren't you the one who got naked after getting to know me for the first time?" He asked with a smirk.

Reina blushed. "Th-that was different."

Nao kissed her sweetly. "I'm teasing… tell me if you want me to stop."

With that, Reina had his full trust. She relaxed and nodded her head. "Keep going… I want you."

"I want you too." Nao said before trailing kisses down her chest once more.

Nao switched sides and sucked on her right breast while groping her left one. Reina moaned and tossed her head back with bliss. Nao moved back and began pulling Reina's pants off. He dropped them on the floor and moved between her legs. He took his hand and began rubbing her clit through her underwear. He massaged her with slow strokes up and down. Reina moaned and bit her lip as she felt Nao grab her underwear and tug it up toward her, rubbing against her clit.

"Mmm, Nao…" She grabbed her own breasts and began squeezing them as he tugged.

"Do you like that?" Nao whispered.

"Mhmm." Reina nodded as she moaned again.

Nao let go and gently peeled her underwear off her body. He spread her legs with his arms and lay down between her legs. He leaned in and kissed her clit before taking his tongue and sliding it up her womanhood. Reina moaned and arched her back, never feeling a sensation like that before. Nao smirked and continued slowly licking up her clit to tease her. He then leaned in and started sucking on her clit. Nao took his tongue and licked her in circular motions. He then used his tongue to flick her clit, causing his saliva to drip down her pussy, mixing with her cum.

Reina moaned and arched her back. "F-fuck yes! Ah!" She grabbed Nao's hair and gripped it tightly as he continued licking her clit. She began to moan louder and breath heavier as the feeling of pleasure began to build. "N-Nao! I can't take it anymore! I'm gonna-"

"Do it." He commanded. Nao took his middle finger and slowly slid it into Reina. He ate her out while gently fingering her pussy.

Reina spread her legs even wider as she almost reach climax. "I'm gonna c-cum!" She squeezed her breast with one hand and held Nao's head against her womanhood with the other before giving a loud moan. "Aaaahhhh! Aaah! Fuck!" She said between pants.

Nao moaned as she came on his face. He kissed her clit once more before coming back up and kissing Reina on the lips. "How do you taste?" He asked.

Reina smirked. "Yummy… but how do you taste?"

Nao smirked. "Guess you'll have to find out."

Reina grinned, but quickly became vulnerable as Nao stuck a finger inside her pussy again. "N-Nao…"

Nao kissed her lips softly before lookign her in the eye. "You're really tight. We need to stretch you out a bit."

Reina nodded. "O-okay…"

"It might hurt a bit, so tell me if I need to slow down." Nao gently pulled his finger out and slowly inserted two inside her. "You're so fucking wet though."

Reina moaned and gripped the bed sheets with her hand. "I-It just burns a little, but it feels good."

Nao started pumping his fingers in and out of her. He listened to her sweet moans before picking up the pace. "You sound so hot when you moan, Reina." He said as he continued to pleasure her. "You ready for a third?"

Reina panted and nodded. "Yes, do it." She squeezed her eyes shut and gripped the bed sheets harder as Nao put in another finger. "A-Ah…"

"Breathe… relax your body." Nao said as he gently kissed her lips. "Breather, Reina."

Reina took in a deep breath and opened her eyes gently as he began moving his fingers in and out of her. "Mmm, fuck…" She said as she bit her lip again.

Nao began kissing her neck until he got to her sweet spot and sucked on it as he moved his fingers inside her even faster. "Mmmm…" He moaned into her neck. "You like that?"

"Yes!" Reina turned her head to face Nao and began making out with him. "Nao… I wanna suck your cock."

Nao immediately took his fingers out of her and flipped onto his side to pull his pants off as Reina readjusted. He lay down on his back as Reina got on top and moved between his legs. Reina grabbed his hard member in her hand and began sucking on his head. She swirled her tongue around it before lowering her head down his shaft. She sucked his cock as she moved her hand up and down, swirling her tongue as she did so. Nao moaned and grabbed a fistful of her hair. Reina looked up at him sexily and grabbed the base of his penis with her finger and thumb, sliding her head all the way down and deep throating him. She bobbed her head up and down a few times, earning moans from Nao. She pulled her head back up and began sucking him normally while twisting her hand up and down. She could taste his salty cum in her mouth as she swirled tongue around his head more.

"Fuck, Reina…" Nao let go of her hair. "I want to fuck you so badly."

Reina crawled up to him and gave him a kiss. "Then fuck me."

Nao swiftly flipped her over and got between her legs. He took his cock and began rubbing his head all over her clit and up and down her opening. "You sure you want this?"

Reina blushed and nodded her head. "Yes…"

Days turned to months and months turned to years. Reina and Nao continued to develop a strong relationship, caring for each other and putting trust in one another. Though they've spent copious amounts of time with each other, Nao still didn't know much about Reina. He didn't exactly know her past, nor was he aware of her jutsu capabilities.

It was a cool summer night when Nao decided to ask Reina. The two were sitting by the waterfall they first spent time at when he turned toward her. "Hey, Reina."

Reina turned her head toward Nao. "What's up?"

Nao sighed. "I know we've been together for some time, but there still is a lot I don't know about you, such as your past. Why did you come to the Ashikaga clan emaciated and depressed when your brothers were so healthy and strong? You are a very capable woman, so, what happened? And why do you need to be isolated from war?"

Reina gave a small smile. "It's about time I tell you. After all, you have the right to know."

Nao put his hands up defensively. "Hey! If you don't want to tell me, you don't have to… I just was curious."

Reina shook her head. "It's important to be transparent in a relationship." She again flashed a small smile. "I'll tell you."

Nao nodded and sat up straight, giving her his fll attention. "Thank you…"

Reina closed her eyes slowly before opening them. "As you know, I've been banished from war, because my abilities aren't quite figured out or understood for that matter. However, I can tell you about my life up until this point and how I got here."

"That works for me." Nao gave her a serious look.

"Alright…" Reina took in a deep breath and exhaled. "I'll tell you my story."