A rust colored afternoon adorned the village as Aino dressed a mannequin with her latest project, finally taking its true shape. Her black dyed hands clutched her hips as she laid a critical eye on her finished piece. Everything seemed alright at first, but she quickly noticed a few hiccups here and there. Minor details that could make the whole thing perfect when fixed. She turned around and opened the drawer containing a small spool of thread she had dyed at the same time as the suit, just in case. Unwinding the spool she made sure to twist in a piece of chakra string, and then cut a length of it to thread the needle with. If the fabric itself was reinforced, the seams better be as well. Her skilled hands began to work the pleats to their rightful place and correct any mistake that the machine would have caused.

It had been a long couple of weeks, in which every second put her to the test. She had been taught how to create something from the bare minimum up to its completion, but she had never thought that doing it all alone would be so demanding. To have no one interfering had its peeks, yet to not be able to share tasks outnumbered them all. Managing her own pet peeves, time and deadlines were already something, now she also had to deal with the pressure to succeed like never before and with her image outside of the shop as well. How many times did she have to rip seams apart or cut another portion of fabric to fix all these inattention mistakes, or had to let everything on standby just before a burnout? Hours upon hours of dedication to this project brought both praise and great isolation from the few people she considered close. She sighed. With this finally out of the way she hoped things would get better.

After a while, the suit was truly finished. But before it left the shop, it needed one last test to earn its seal of approval and it wasn't a moment she looked forward to. One person had the power to judge if something was worthy enough to leave the Shiraishi shop, and Aino in all her disgust still had to follow the rules.

Swallowing back her pride, she left the mannequin behind and walked to the back of the shop where Otome's office was located. As head of the clan she would be the one to endorse all commercial aspects of the trade and could be found most of the time there sorting things out and organizing everybody's scheduled projects.

Aino knocked on the door and let herself in, then as per custom put one knee down in order to salute her aunt. Otome glanced at her from her desk. They hadn't seen each other since she got yelled at by Madara, and Aino could see that Otome just got reminded of this ordeal just by seeing her. "What do you want?" She asked with barely credible indifference.

"The order for Lord Uchiha is done. Your approval is needed."

At the mention of his name, Otome's face lightened up, as if she just remembered he had placed an order. She let go of her pencil and stood up, visibly agitated. "What are you waiting for? Lead the way!"

A moment later the two women were back in the room, with Otome studying every inch of the suit and Aino waiting silently for comments. They probably wouldn't come out nice, but even bile to her ears would still allow her to perfect her techniques later. The old woman may not be the nicest person around, but she was by far one of the most skilled and knowledgeable people in this clan.

Aino watched as blue swirls spread on Otome's forearm and hand, pulsating with chakra. To make sure that this chakra bound piece was up to the clan's standards, it had to be tested by someone wielding chakra to a higher level, and this was the privilege of the clan's leader and heirs. Her palm went to touch the fabric and the entire suit started glowing blue, making it easy to spot any weak chain in the weave. Fortunately, not an inch was weaker. Then the swirls retracted inside her hand and a blast of chakra abruptly came out of her palm, hitting the suit yet not destroying the mannequin underneath. Aino clutched her hands in delight, feeling relieved. The suit had absorbed the blast. It had passed the test.

"It turned out better than I thought." Otome said, withdrawing her hand. "Package it well. We'll be leaving first thing in the morning."

She went back to her office, leaving behind a smug Aino. An approval from the head of the clan was worth praise, and to see her aunt being forced to recognize she did a good job felt nice.

She went on to remove her creation from the mannequin, but stop when she grabbed it. Tomorrow, it would go to its owner and would be worn and serve its purpose, like any other thing she made. But this one was different. This one would bring her respect from the rest of her peers, enough for them to recognize her as a valuable member of this clan. She straightened up, feeling proud. It will be something to be known in her own family for her achievements rather than her life choices for once.

She took the suit and holding it close she went to the stock room to grab the needed materials for a package, then she took everything to the front shop where ready to dispatch orders would be stored. There on the counter she prepared the package, layering the wrapping paper and the suit so that it would cover it nicely. This being done she closed the box and tightened it secure with a ribbon. Now to the more solemn part: She lit the large candle next to her and placed on top of the flame a spoonful of golden wax. Once melted, she poured it on the knot of the ribbon, hiding it from sight. While it was still viscous she stamped it with the clan's crest, sealing it and making the package ready to meet its recipient.

Aino stored the box safely, satisfied at her job well done. The afternoon was still at its early hours, a perfect moment to finally let go of this project and enjoy the nice things in life, starting with a nice meal in town.

If there was one day where waking up late was not an option at all, it was this one. Yet this very morning Aino made that mistake. Trying to put on her yukata as fast as she could she mumbled to herself how she should know better. This wasn't her first delivery after all, and this one she couldn't allow to go wrong. Under the pressuring shouting of her aunt from behind the door she combed her hair and hastily tied it up with a few hair pins. It wasn't flawless as she had hoped, but it would have to do.

She opened the door to meet an annoyed Otome holding the precious package. "Late and barely presentable. Hurry up for all gods' sake! Lord Uchiha cannot wait any longer!"

At least I didn't overdo it, old hag. Aino swallowed her words and nodded before following the matriarch in a hasty walk.

Aino shivered as the chilly morning breeze found its way up her sleeves. They were supposed to be late, yet pressing the walk didn't seem to be an option for her aunt. Every step after the other she would slow down and even stop to greet people, being visibly thrilled by the clan's newfound prestige. Aino could only salute and erase herself before Otome's exaggerated behavior and appearance. It was one thing to be proud of your clan's achievements and rise in status, it was another one to be overly confident and so richly attired it would throw shade at the local Tayu.

The Uchiha estate was a solid twenty minutes away from their place, located in the outskirts of the village. Once on the main road they passed the Hyuga compound, a landmark Aino never went beyond before, and crossed the river to reach the southern districts of Konoha. The atmosphere was different from the shopping district, less crowded yet busy nonetheless. The metallic banging from the weaponry forge would set the pace, while in the middle of detonations and puffs of dirt and dust, young genins from the academy were training on the empty grounds beyond. Aino smiled with kindness at how hardworking the youth of today was.

The rectangular shape of the Uchiha estate appeared in the distance, its white and blue ramparts clashing with the dark wooden architecture surrounding it. With every step bringing her closer, Aino's train of thought would race. It had been roughly two months since she saw him, and she wondered if he would pull another reckless act of his. There was a big chance considering that Otome was with her, as he seemed to have a really short temper with her. Couldn't really blame him on that one, who wouldn't with this woman?

They got welcomed at the outside gate and upon entering the estate Aino immediately noticed how empty and monotone it was. Nothing like their own compound which even though was much smaller, was still more decorated than that. As they followed the young Uchiha to the center place, this first impression of hers continued. All around them was naked stone and hard wood, a few patches of wild grass and the emblem of the clan as the only touch of color. It was all so stern and rough, she wouldn't be surprised the estate also served as a private training ground.

The procession came to a halt when they reached the leader's meeting hall. To Aino's disappointment this place was as monotone as the rest, despite its size and the tentative at decorating it with sculptures and plants. The crest fan stood proudly on top of the entrance, surrounded by the tomoe that made the Sharingan's pattern, and under it two men were guarding the door. Upon closer look, they weren't the ones who had accompanied their master earlier this season. The tallest of the duo stepped towards them and waved the younger Uchiha away, a hand strategically placed over the hilt of his katana.

"Who are you?" He asked, visibly annoyed by the impromptu visit.

"I am Shiraishi Otome, and this is my niece, Shiraishi Aino. We came to deliver Lord Uchiha's order in person as per his request." She declared, bowing slightly.

The two men murmured to each other before the other one went inside. Next to her, Otome readjusted her many hairpins, giggling and jittery. Aino backed off slightly, refusing to be associated to what she considered a pathetic spectacle. Her hands clenched around the box even tighter. Otome had to be there as matriarch of the clan, as a sign of respect, and there was nothing she could really do about that but secretly hope she'd get at least a few praises for herself.

The Uchiha man emerged from inside the residence, and posted himself in front of the door. "He only wishes to see lady Aino. She is to bring this thing in alone." He said, a hint of annoyance tainting his tone.

Otome scoffed. "What is this nonsense? I am the leader of the Shiraishi clan, it is my duty. How else am I supposed to pay my respects?" She protested, not even trying to hide the offense.

The guard raised his palm. "He has made himself clear, madam. The patio has been arranged for you to wait comfortably. I suggest you follow me there and not anger him."

"But this is-"

"Leave it to me, aunt Otome." Aino replied as sweetly as she could muster. "I'll be fine, and I promise not to disappoint you." The old woman frowned at her, struggling to keep up appearances. After another nod from the guard, she reluctantly followed him away to the patio. The remaining man waved at Aino, stepping aside to allow her access the door. As she passed the threshold, the bright light of morning dimmed suddenly before being suppressed completely by the door closing behind her.

The vestibule leading to the main room was skimpy and oppressing, yet dancing to the flicker of the candles was the shine of silver. Her steps leading the way she allowed her eyes to follow the intricate patterns on the walls, sometimes representing scenes of the clan's history, sometimes presenting the crest in majesty. In the end it seemed the Uchiha had a thing for art, it was just well hidden.

She reached the paper door and a familiar feeling contorted her gut. Behind the thin separation this aura of power was boiling.

He's there.

She removed her sandals and left them on the side, then raised her hand to the wooden frame of the door. Now was not the time to back off. She slid it open slowly, as if a salve of this fantastic power would hit her and then stepped in. The room was bathing in the subdued rays of sunlight, spacious and airy, not as richly decorated as the vestibule but with a certain charm nonetheless. She recognized the mane of black hair facing her from behind the table, and her heart pounded hard in her chest. To be alone with this man felt surreal, as if he had put her into another illusion. There was no fear, but a deep sense of the unknown, both thrilling and too much to handle at the same time. There was something about this man that just wouldn't leave her alone.

Speaking of being left alone, she grinned to herself. Now was her time to shine, and she ought to start it the right way. She silently walked towards him and kneeled gracefully, placing the packaged order in front of her before curling her back into a respectful bow. It was barely the basic protocol, just with a hint of theatrics. She promised not to disappoint after all.

"So you do know how to properly greet a superior." He spoke turning towards her, the corner of his lips curling slightly.

Aino rose slowly, careful when meeting those eyes. A little sarcasm she could handle, especially since he could do much worse to her for having disrespected him in front of a crowd when they first met. "One has got to remember their place sometimes." She replied, reciprocating the smile.

"Wise words." She furrowed her brows at the tone he chose there. "Now… come sit with me. I've been waiting for you."

He outstretched a hand in the direction of a cushion, and she opted to obey immediately. As she drew closer to the spot set for her, she couldn't help but notice how tired the Uchiha looked. Dark circles were looming under his eyes and his face was paler, more than what the effects of autumn's growing lack of light would usually have. Still, he had kept that fierce, piercing look in his eyes and this imposing allure that had struck her in the past. She sat down while he poured himself a cup of tea and allowed her gaze to linger on his soft, almost graceful movements.

"Is that it?" He asked pointing at the box beside her.

She nodded and presented him with his order. He wasted no time and went to rip the wax seal and ribbon apart to get rid of the lid, a hurry which was to the seamstress both a pride and an irritation. After removing the wrapping paper the same way, the Uchiha paused at the sight of his newest possession.

"Did you follow my instructions?" His eyes never left the contents of the box as he spoke dryly.

"Strictly, as you can see." She let the sleeves of her yukata fall to her elbows, revealing the uneven grey colors the dye had left on her skin. "From the raw materials to the finished piece, no one else but me worked on it."

Madara exhaled, and it seemed the whole room got lighter with him. "Good." He replied calmly.

He grabbed the suit and let it unfold by itself before laying it flat on the tatami. Aino watched him in silence proceed to his meticulous inspection, watched those fingers stroke the fabric and then tug on it, how he appreciated its thickness and texture and traced the seams with his thumb. His hands were those of a warrior, dry and calloused, yet in their inspection they were gentle and soft. Her mind started wandering in places where these hands would show their skills on skin. In too deep in her curiosity, her eyes trailed from his hand to his arm, following the loose creases of his tunic to the loosened collar at the front. Peeking shyly there was a small patch of pale skin from his bare chest, curving lovingly on toned muscles. She followed up to the contours of his shoulders and neck down to his ornamented waist, appreciating his manly build while he was still looking away. There was no denying, the leader of the Uchiha was a handsome man.

Her own fingers clenched into fists on her lap as she tried to get rid of such thoughts. Even if this was irresistibly tempting to do so, it was neither the time nor the place to fantasize about her customer.

Madara turned back to her, which made her jump. "You used your own chakra, right?"

"Yes… Yes I did." She muttered, relieved that he didn't catch her daydreaming.

"It explains why it feels so familiar." His grin returned and as quickly as it did, escaped her sight when he went to store the suit along with its box away. To her surprise, he didn't come back empty handed. As he sat back down, her own grin faded. He had brought another box, and was carefully placing it on the table. Aino stared at it in confusion. When she entered that room she thought she had come prepared, or at least not completely ignorant, but it seemed like Madara just proved her wrong. Her mind raced, trying to adjust to the impromptu change in her plans and to quickly come back on a confident track.

"What is this?" She asked, raising questioning eyes at her host.

The Uchiha leaned into his chair, his arms crossing nonchalantly. "A reward for the hard work you pulled out for me."

Puzzled by the whole situation, Aino's gaze went back and forth between the mysterious box and Madara. She was about to protest when a nod from him incited her to open the box right now. Decided not to go against his wish, her trembling hands reached for the lid and slowly pulled it off, setting it aside before unfolding the wrappings. What she found nested in there caused her mouth to drop.

Neatly folded in was a kimono. At first glance what caught her was the shine of gold and silver threads intertwined with hues of red in a floral pattern. It circled the collar in arabesques, and as she lifted the kimono out of its box she saw that it continued down the front panels and sleeves, flowing on the fabric effortlessly, each bud and petal as smooth and delicate as the last. Turning the whole thing over she discovered with awe the back piece, a bouquet of blossomed camellias in majesty, with nacre pearls ornamenting each flower. Several of them! Several sewn on what could only be silk, dyed a deep dark blue and highlighted with more silver at the edges. Her thumb glided with ease on the heavenly soft surface, gently moving it aside to reveal the under layer of the kimono. The sheer ruby red was truly a refined compliment to the main layer, muted enough not to over shine it, but vivid enough to bring a nice contrast to the neck and wrists when worn.

Under it all was a plain red sash and the obi belt, made in beautiful red brocade, highlighted once again in silver touches. The shades were chosen perfectly so that the pattern would be given texture and the illusion of a color shift. Still holding it up, Aino also realized that despite all this handy work the kimono still retained a reasonable weight, probably thanks to finer, higher quality materials. The rarest dyes, the pearls, such fine threads… It was truly the work of someone skilled, and was probably worth much more than what she could afford or even make herself. She could stare at the beauty of this kimono for hours, marvel at its craftsmanship all she wanted, but uneasiness was growing in her chest. This was beyond everything she was ever gifted. She should have been flattered, as many ladies in Konoha would kill for such a beautiful kimono, let alone a gift from the leader of the Uchiha himself.

"Where did you get it? Who-"

"It doesn't matter." He interrupted. "It's all yours."

Following his affirmation she carefully folded the kimono back into the box. It was wonderful, but way too much. "Lord Uchiha, I…" She gulped, knowing she probably was treading on thin ice, or rather his thin temper. "I don't understand. Why would you gift such a precious item to someone like me?"

He chuckled lightly, leaning in with both hands on the table. "I'm surprised you haven't figured it out yourself."

The playful tone in his baritone voice started a wave of goosebumps all over her body. Her gaze found his, and it was clear that this man was not the same she had formally greeted a moment ago. Here before her was the man who had trapped her in an illusion and toyed with her there. She brought a hand to her nape as she understood, hushing the phantom sensations tickling her skin. It didn't come from her wicked imagination. They were indeed playing a game, and he had the upper hand.

Before her thinking got any further he reached above the table and grabbed her jaw with one hand, pulling her forcefully closer to him. She gasped at the bold move and at his raw strength, though his grip on her wasn't painful. In this sudden intimacy between them a wave of crimson colored her cheeks while desire rooted inside her, threatening to manifest in broader ways.

"I like you, Aino." He pushed a few wild hairs off of her face. "And I know you too are not indifferent."

The change of atmosphere was drastic and definitely no longer professional, but it wasn't to her dismay. Since things seemed to be clearer between the two of them, Aino deemed better to play fair. She went to cradle her face with both hands when his let go of her, a way to manage that embarrassing heat that kept spreading. "Alright, I admit it. You've seen through me."

"That wasn't hard. You're terrible at hiding your wandering glances." She frowned at the remark while he let out a light chuckle. She knew she wasn't the most discrete person, but for her musings to be that noticeable? She needed to take notes on that one for later. "I want you to have that kimono." He said in a whisper. "I want you to wear it and be at your most beautiful when we see each other again… in a different context."

More pressure from her stomach dropped into the cradle of her desire as she understood her fantasies could be coming true by some ungodly miracle. This situation was so surreal. He wanted her. He was damn serious! To think that a man like him could want her this way made her blood race. She had been with men in the past, but not a single one met the caliber of the one sitting in front of her. "So… you want to spend a night with me." she asked, repeating the words echoing in her head.

"Glad to see you're catching up." He earned another frown from her. "We could meet in the Uchiha compound in three days, at the hour of the Rat. My work load should be much lighter then."

The offer was tempting, irresistible even. He was offering her what a bunch of ladies were craving, her included. Yet a little alarm went off in her head as the sweet thought rooted in there. This was no ordinary man she'd be sharing a good time with. The possible repercussions this could have on her would have a greater impact on her future reputation, which was not pristine to start with. The coil of lust in her core screamed for her to say "yes" at this very second, but she couldn't ignore this feeling of prudence.

"I'll see about that, Lord Uchiha." She said as she rose with the kimono box in hand. "Now if you'll excuse me, I should be going. My venerable aunt is waiting for me."

He rose as well, reaching in his inner pocket. "Of course. Here's for the suit." The way the coins clinked as he put the bag on top of the box betrayed a far greater amount of money than what was due. Aino chose not to complaint, as there was a high chance this large monetary reward could take Otome's attention away from the priceless kimono he had just gifted her.

"Thank you for your gift. May you have a pleasant day." She said, bowing her head.

After he returned her salute she turned to exit the room but suddenly stopped. "Oh… Lord Uchiha? I have one last question." She blurted out after a few steps.

"Mmh?"

She paused to throw a glance at him. "Why a genjutsu?"

He laughed lightly, visibly not taken aback by the question. "I wanted some entertainment after waiting so long."

Aino scoffed at the aloof reply, but she quickly mirrored his smile afterwards. This kind of reasoning suited his character just fine. Satisfied with this answer, she went on her way out.

Even with her back turned and the distance between them growing, Aino could feel Madara's piercing eyes tracking her movements. When the main door closed behind her she felt a weight lifting her shoulders, only for a much different one to take its place. As any offer, as good as it could be, she'd have to tread carefully. The Uchiha just brought her recognition, but who knows what he had in store for her.

Once the woman out of sight, Madara returned to the table and finished his cup of tea in one gulp. He sighed at the warm liquid soothing his nerves, allowing him to focus. So far, everything was going according to plan and he now had all of the tools necessary for the next phase to begin. It would be complicated, a test to his will, so might as well enjoy his last peaceful days. He chuckled to himself while he went to store the suit, hoping he'd see the seamstress soon to see his cravings and, hopefully, his fantasy satisfied. After all, what better way to have fun than in the company of a woman?