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Bee-uty & the Beast
Kraen
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Chapter Sixteen
A/N: This chapter is HUGE -- so I apologize ahead of time for all of the grammatical mistakes.
Gai was careful to not make too much noise as he shut Hani's door. It wouldn't take much to wake her up and it was his job, as ranking ninja and mission leader to ensure she was in top form and got plenty of rest. He adjusted his grip on her and couldn't help but grin as she moaned disapprovingly at being shifted.
Gai carried her carefully to the bed; the only sound being a soft "swish" from the movement of his hakama pants. Before placing her on the mattress, he took a moment to observe her. He marveled at how small she was –shorter than any of his students. He tested her weight – she was lighter than all of them too. She was as light as a bird, and probably just as delicate as one too. He lifted his arm where her head rested, so he could get a better look at her face. She was breathing lightly; her lips slightly parted. In this state, she looked less threatening than a box of kittens. He couldn't help but chuckle at the thought.
Slowly, Gai placed her legs on the bed and carefully removed his arm from behind her knees. Then he sat her rump down; her lower back and before he laid her head on the pillow, Gai used his now free hand to remove her hair sticks. After placing the discrete weapons on her end table, he ran a few fingers through her silky hair, not wanting to be blamed for any tangles later.
He made sure Hani's body was well situated on the bed before he went about removing her socks. He eyed the bruises on her toes from where she had kicked him the other day. Truth be told, if she had got off the kick before he had spotted it, then it might have actually hurt. But years of training had conditioned his body and raised his pain tolerance. Though he would be lying if he said the area she had struck didn't have a bit of soreness afterwards.
After tossing her socks to the side, Gai started to remove her obi. Unfortunately, Gai knew very little about a woman's obi so it took a fair amount of trial and error before he figured out how to remove the thing. It was similar to a man's obi, but with a few more folds than what he was use to. As he slid the fabric out from under her, he was just barely fast enough to catch a small, hidden leather case before it crashed to the floor
He stole a look at her before unzipping it a bit and taking a peek inside. 'So this is where she stores her poisons,' he wondered. Not wanting to mess up any ordered system she had, Gai quickly zipped the case and sat it on the table next to the hair accessories.
Once Hani's soft belt was untied, Gai put a hand under Hani's head and pulled the collar of her outer kimono down her shoulders and slid the whole garment off of her like removing a tablecloth from a fully decorated table (without the sudden yank).
"One down," he whispered.
He placed his hands on his hips and surveyed the situation. Hani had been dressed in a traditional kimono, which entails two actual dresses, two belts and one obi. Now, normally he could leave her as is, and it would be alright; it wasn't unheard of for someone to sleep in an inner kimono. The only problem is, Hani was a ninja and had even told him she had weapons stored in her clothing.
There is a rule amongst the teams in Konoha. When your teammate is rendered unconscious, it is necessary to ensure they do not have any weapons on them that could be a danger to themselves. There have been far too many cases of wounded ninja who have rolled onto a hidden weapon, resulting in them bleeding to death or becoming seriously injured. With Gai's team, it was easy – he knew his pupils and what they carried. Neji and Lee's hands were their greatest weapons and they usually didn't carry anything more than their belt pouch and leg holster. And the only weapons Tenten carried were in her bags or her scrolls – not finding it necessary to hide weapons within her clothing.
So, aside from Gai patting Hani down to search for weapons, it would just be better if he removed her inner kimono as well. Fortunately, he had an idea on how to do this and still allow Hani to keep her modesty.
Gai slid an arm under Hani's legs, lifted them up and pulled the folded comforter from underneath her. He then rolled it out and laid it across her; the only thing visible was her head. Gai interlaced his fingers and stretched his hands a few times – this was going to take a very gentle, skilled touch.
He slipped his arms under the blankets, carefully grabbed the collar of her kimono and pulled it down off her shoulders like he had the first. He had made it to the small of her back when she moved.
"Mnnph," she moaned as she rolled towards the center of the bed; effectively pinning his arm.
'Craaaap,' cursed Gai mentally. He had to move with her body and now the blanket he had used to cover her was threatening to reveal what was hidden under it.
He pulled his free arm out and used it to help pull out his other arm. Hani didn't seem to like this too much as she moaned again and rolled even more onto her side, tucking her hands under her cheek.
Gai sighed in defeat, there would be no way to take the kimono off her now – he'd never get the sleeves off without waking her. 'I should probably just leave it,' he thought. But what if she got hurt on a hidden weapon? He'd never forgive himself. He leaned over her and shook her shoulder gently, "Hani. I need to undress you." He nearly kicked himself – what kind of thing was that to say?
"Hmm?" she asked, still asleep.
"Your kimono, I need to take it off."
"Mn-Why?" she said, still not fully awake.
"I don't want you to get hurt," he said, taking her hand out from under her chin and pulling lightly at the sleeve.
"Noes!" she said in a half whine, tugging at her arm for him to let go.
"Geez, even in your sleep you're difficult."
"Ugh, fine!" she snapped. She sat up quickly and jerked her hand free from him. She then pulled her arms out of her kimono, yanked it out from under the blankets and tossed it to the floor.
"Good," sighed Gai. He bent over and picked up the kimono – he was right; there were an array of hidden shuriken velcroed in various places. She may have been fine, but accidents do happen.
He looked at her sharply as he caught another movement out of the corner of his eye. She had worn a tank top under the kimono and was in the process of pulling it up from around her waist. "Whoa-wait!" cried Gai as he dropped the kimono and grabbed her arms to keep her from going any farther. He looked into her eyes – they were half closed and completely out of focus; she was still asleep. "That's good, Hani. You don't have to take anymore off."
She grabbed at the straps of her shirt and tried to pull them down.
"Hani, stop!" pleaded Gai as he grabbed her hands.
She gave him a hazy stare, "Ouch!"
Gai furrowed his brows as he pulled away from her. Had he done something to hurt her?
Hands now free, Hani reached down into her shirt and fished around in her cleavage.
Gai turned his head, somewhat fearful of what she was about to do, but when she pulled out a small "W" shaped blade, he was visibly relieved.
She held it out to him. "Ouch," she said simply before handing it off and laying back into bed.
Gai eyed the weapon – ouch indeed. It looked like a mix between a brass knuckle and some bizarre curved dagger with only a thin piece of leather for a holster. He had seen these weapons before, but never used one as they were more of a weapon for the kunoichi's arsenal. They were called "Bra Blades", and nicknamed "Busom Buddies". It must have been tucked away under her massive – well, just tucked away.
It was designed to fit a woman's hand; Gai could only get three of his fingers into the grip. And it was effective when fighting in hand to hand combat when the kunoichi's strength was inferior to her opponent's. When the blade is sharp enough, it doesn't matter how hard you hit.
He added the weapon to the growing pile on her nightstand – he was starting to feel like a weapons checkpoint at some important event. He then sat up and tucked the blankets around her to be sure she wasn't woken by any chill. Once he was satisfied, he went over to her fire pit and placed a couple small logs and coal on the glowing embers.
He looked around her room as the fames grew. It was a bit smaller than Hakanza's room, with only a makeup stand, closet, two nightstands and the fire pit that was built into the ground just a few feet to the side of the bed. It was a simple room, but far nicer than anything in Gai's small apartment.
He sat down on the corner of her bed and looked over his shoulder at her to make sure she was still asleep. He knitted his brows as she reached out and pawed at the space next to her. He watched her, wondering what on earth she could be looking for. But after a few seconds, she grabbed the bed's second pillow, pulled it into her and snuggled with it. Gai chuckled lightly – it was hard at a time like this to think of her as being even remotely dangerous.
He returned his attention to the fire and gave it a few good pokes with an iron rod he found resting against the edge of the pit. He always did like a good fire – it was warm, and in some cases entrancing; lulling you to a calm state of mind after any hard mission. In addition, it reminded him of the elemental fire that burned in his veins – the very thing that made his blood boil and his inner strength blaze. He took a few deep breaths through his nose, enjoying the sweet smell of the burning wood.
After a few moments of silence, Gai scratched at his face and tried to think back on the last time he had enjoyed a warm campfire. His most recent missions with his team had been one day trips where a camp wasn't needed. But the last time must have been … He blinked in surprise, when they went to Suna …
---
It had been a late, summer evening, just one month ago. Gai and his team were sitting about a fire on the border between Suna and Konoha. His team had just returned from Suna, having delivered a note from Hokage Tsunade to congratulate the newly appointed Kazekage. Gai and his team were honored they had been picked for such a prestigious mission and were even more proud when they found out they had been handpicked by the Hokage because of their exemplary mission record.
"Your team has successfully completed every mission in the past 3 months. I think you deserve the vacation," said Tsunade from behind her desk. She gave them a small smile. "Why don't you take a few days off and enjoy Suna."
"Yatta!" said Lee and Tenten in unison. They had both been eager to see the desert capital for a while now and were happy to hear they would finally get a chance. Neji retained his usual stoic expression as his teammates dance excitedly around the room.
Gai couldn't help but grin as he watched his students express their youthful exuberance. He understood most of all, how much of an honor the Hokage was bestowing upon them.
"Here is my letter to the new Kazekage," said Tsunade as she took a scroll from her desk and held it out.
Gai stepped forward and took it with a small salute, "We will ensure it is delivered safely, Hokage-sama."
"Hai!" said Lee and Tenten in unison.
"Good," smiled Tsunade. "And try to have a little fun."
And they did. Suna had been in full celebration for the new Kazakage -- one that showed a lot of power and promise. And since Gaara was too busy to take visitors, Gai's team had delivered the official letter to Temari and Kankuro who accepted the note in honor of their brother. Afterwards, they were given a very detailed tour, lavish accommodations and had enjoyed all of the numerous festivities; including a grand fireworks display at the end. When it was all over, the younger members of the team were happy to return home so they could share the excitement of the trip with their families and friends.
"Gai-sensei," said Tenten from across the campfire. She adjusted her grip on the needle she was using to darn a spare pair of Gai's tights. The Jounin knew how to sew, but Tenten was much more talented at it than he was and she was a great deal faster at it too.
"Yes, Tenten?" asked Gai as he brought a cup of water to his mouth.
"You need a woman," she said flatly.
Gai was barely able to turn his head fast enough to keep from spraying water all over his precious students. "Pffft-hack-hack …*cough* … *cough* … what?!" he said, wiping his mouth with the back of his arm.
Tenten maintained her stoic expression, "We've been talking about it lately."
Gai tented his brows, "Whose 'we'?"
She used her needle to indicate who she was talking about, "Neji, Lee and me."
Gai looked around the campfire, "Is that true."
Lee gave his sensei a sheepish look as he tugged at a stray string on his legwarmer. Neji merely nodded in affirmation.
Gai crossed his arms, straightened his back and used his 'sensei voice'. "I don't think my personal life is any business of—"
"We were thinking you should try going on more dates," said Tenten who was unaffected by his tone.
Neji nodded in agreement, "Mhmm."
"I go on plenty of dates," said Gai in self defense.
"Oh? With you?" asked Tenten, not believing him.
"Yes, Gai-sensei. With who?" asked Lee.
"That is a private mat—"
"Is it Kurenai-sensei?" asked Tenten with a small grin.
Gai's face blanched.
"Not a chance, Tenten," said Neji as he sipped his tea. "Kurenai Yuuhi may deny it, but she has been dating Asuma Sarutobi for awhile now. Besides," he added. "Kurenai is out of our Sensei's league."
"I suppose you are right," said Tenten as she brought a finger to her chin.
Gai could only make a choking sound. His students didn't think very highly of him, did they?
"Uwhaa!" said Lee with a small fist pump. "What about the daughter of the man who owns the ramen stand? She is very beautiful and worthy of Gai-sensei!"
Gai turned to his favorite pupil and opened his mouth to speak, but Tenten was faster. "Ayame? Oh, good choice Lee!"
Neji shook his head, "I'm afraid that won't work. I believe she just started going on dates with Kakashi Hatake recently."
"Oh," said Tenten with a slight blush. "Then you don't stand a chance with her, Gai-sensei."
Gai nearly fell over -- he was losing some serious face here.
"What about Anko Mitarashi?" asked Neji who was starting to get involved in the conversation.
Tenten shuddered, "Nah, she scares me."
"Me as well," added Lee.
Gai lifted his finger -- it was time he put his foot down.
"What about Shizune-senpai?" asked Tenten.
"Same problem as Kurenai. She's out of his league."
This time, Gai did fall over.
His students were either oblivious to their sensei's turmoil or they just chose to ignore it. "You have a cousin who is Gai-sensei age, right Neji? What about her?"
The Hyuuga shuddered at the thought of being related to Gai. "I love my family too much for that."
"Oh-oh!" said Tenten with a small squeal. "What about Tsunade-sama?!"
Gai promptly collapsed to the ground again.
Neji brought a finger to his chin and pondered her suggestion, "They are both very strong."
"And she is very beautiful," added Lee with a grin.
"B-But, she's older than my mother!" cried Gai in desperation. He just wanted the humiliation to end.
"Oh … I guess that's true," said Tenten. "Sorry Gai-sensei. I forget how old you are sometimes and with Tsunade-sama's transformation technique – it's hard to remember how old she is too."
Gai struggled to retake his seat.
"Who are these women you go on dates with?" asked Neji who eyed his teacher suspiciously.
Gai cleared his throat, "Plenty of women."
"'Plenty of Women'?" asked Neji. "Is that her first name or her family name?"
Gai eyed the Hyuuga and made a mental note to work more on mellowing the boy out.
"It's OK if you don't date, Gai-sensei," said Tenten, finally sensitive to her teacher's feelings.
Gai was grateful when everyone had finally grown quite. He looked around the fire, they had all returned to what they were doing before the conversation; Tenten to her sewing, Neji to his tea and Lee to polishing his weapons. Gai brought his drink to his lips again. Hopefully the moment had passed—
"You do like women, right Gai-sensei?" asked Tenten with a mischievous grin.
"PFFT!" spat Gai, spraying water into his cup and back into his face.
"A good question," asked Neji as he crossed his arms.
"Tenten, why would you think he did not like women?" asked Lee who seemed a little hurt by the question.
The kunoichi shrugged, "I don't know. I just thought he might not like women – I mean, he's 28, single and likes to wear tights."
Lee tilted his head, "I like to wear tights."
"We've been wondering about you too, Lee," said Neji with an expressionless face.
"I like girls!" squeaked Lee.
"What a manly reply," mocked Neji.
Gai gave Lee a sympathetic look. The boy had just recently started to go through puberty and controlling his voice was a daily struggle. Neji, on the other hand had already gone through this stage of 'the change'; which is probably why the Hyuuga still picked fun at him.
Lee jumped from his seat, "I am twice the man you are, Neji Hyuuga!"
Neji rolled his eyes, "You are talentless hack who has only proved the contrary, Lee."
"Grr!" growled the green-clad teen as he ran through the camp and tackled his teammate.
"Gah! Not in the fire, not in the fire!" shouted Gai as he did his best to keep the two brawling teens from rolling into the fire and burning themselves. Their rivalry was starting wear on his last nerve.
Tenten just picked up her needlework and stepped out of the way. Fights between these boys were a nightly ritual and it was best to not interfere.
"Enough!" yelled Gai as he grabbed their collars and pried them apart. But they ignored him and continued to throw kicks and punches.
Gai gritted his teeth and slammed the two together, forcing them to head butt each other. "I am tired of this happening every night! You two need to figure out a better way to settle your differences!" he scolded as he dragged the dizzy boys to a nearby creek. "Now cool off!" he shouted as he chucked them both into the water.
Still sewing, Tenten came to her sensei's side and watched the two boys as they flailed about in the freezing water. "Gai-sensei, why do they fight so much?"
Gai sighed, "Because they are boys in the dawn of becoming men. And when that happens, sometimes the testosterone speaks louder than their good conscience."
"Were you like that, Gai-sensei?"
"Worse."
"Men," scoffed Tenten as she walked back to their camp.
Gai waited silently as the boys struggled to the water's edge. "I'm very disappointed in you two," he said as he bent over and offered them both a hand.
"I am sorry, Gai-sensei," said Lee who was filled with an immeasurable amount of guilt at letting down his beloved teacher.
"I apologize as well, Sensei," said Neji as he used Gai's offered hand to pull himself out of the water. He didn't adore his teacher like Lee, but he did have respect for the man who had already taught him a great deal about being a ninja.
Gai took each boy's shoulder and steered them back to the campfire to dry off. "Though I encourage your rivalry, I insist you two find a better way to deal with your disagreements. To throw a punch for anything other than training and self defense is just a waste of energy."
"Yes, Gai-sensei."
"If you need to burn off your blossoming boy-to-man vigor, I can always give you more exercises--"
"N-no, Sensei. We'll stop fighting," said Neji as he threw Lee a sharp look.
"Hai," said Lee with a quick nod.
"Very well," said Gai as he returned to his place by the fire. His food was getting cold and there was nothing he disliked more than cold curry.
Tenten didn't so much as steal a glance as Neji and Lee stripped from their wet clothes down to their underwear. She had known the boys since they were 12 – they didn't have many secrets left between them. "Gai-sensei, you never answered the question."
Gai halted the spoonful of food that had nearly made it to his mouth and sighed, "What question was that, Tenten?"
"Are you gay?"
Gai flared his nostrils; they were back on this topic again?
Both Lee and Neji silenced their movements and watched their teacher, anxious for a reply.
"I mean, we won't like you any less if you are," added Tenten.
"No," sighed Gai who was suddenly feeling very tired. "I am not gay."
"Are you sure?"
Gai bawked at the girl – was he sure?! "Yes Tenten, I am sure. I like women – I like the way they feel, smell, and taste. When I dream at night, I fantasize about women, not men. I want to share my bed with a woman, not a man. I am aroused by a woman's body, not a man's. I want to make love to a woman, not a man. I want to enter a woman, not be entered by a man. Do I make myself clear?!"
"Geez, Sensei – T.M.I" cringed Tenten.
"Then what's your excuse for still being single?" asked Neji who was known for not pulling his punches; physically or verbally.
Gai rolled his head, trying to relieve the tension in his neck, "I don't know. Being a jounin and having my own team -- I guess I haven't had the time."
Tenten tossed him his mended tights over the fire, "We love you Gai-sensei, but maybe you should think about making some time for yourself for a change."
Neji nodded at her words, "You are a fit, healthy man with a great deal of skills to pass on to your offspring. I think it would be wise for you to start trying to find a spouse -- you will not be getting any younger."
"It would be wonderful to see you happy like that, Gai-sensei!" added Lee.
Gai gave them a half smile. Though he was flattered his students cared that much about him, it was still a little sad that a bunch of teenagers were reminding him how much of a hopeless bachelor he was.
"We could always try to find someone to set you up with," offered Tenten.
"Oh! We can make it a mission!" chirped Lee. "D-Ranked!"
"Make that A-Ranked," added Neji.
Gai dropped his head in defeat; this was so depressing.
---
Gai jumped at the sound of Hani's sleepy moan. He looked over his shoulder and eyed the clock on the nightstand – had it been an hour already? He looked at Hani sharply as she threw her arm up into the air in a defensive manner.
"I said I'm not tired!" she shouted as she sat bolt upright in bed. She looked around her with a confused look and bleary eyes. "How did I get here --?" She spotted him at the end of the bed. It took her a few seconds before it finally dawned on her what had happened. "You!" she growled.
"Hani, I can explain –" he said, holding his hands up in surrender.
"I said I was fine! You didn't have to pinch my pressure point and knock me out!" She grabbed the spare pillow and chucked it at him.
He swatted it away, "You were exhausted! You nearly fell asleep at the table!"
She yanked the covers off roughly and stood, "I know my body better than you do –" but the sudden draft she felt silenced her. She looked down and noticed all she was wearing was her tank top, thong underwear and a kunai holster around her leg. "What the f --?!" she cried as she grabbed the blankets and quickly covered herself with them.
Gai could do nothing but sit and stare wide-eyed – he didn't even notice the additional weapons he had missed.
"So you stripped me down too?!"
Gai snapped out of his revere, "I didn't want you to get hurt – so I took the kimono off, fearing there were weapons hidden in it."
Hani looked at the dress on the floor and turned around to the pile of equipment on the nightstand. The sight of the weapon lying on top of the stack made her cheeks burn red. She grabbed it and held the "Busom Buddy" up for Gai to see. "Did you do a cavity search on me?!"
"Absolutely not!" he snapped. "You gave that to me."
"I … what?!"
"You had woken up enough to hand that to me – I didn't go looking for it, I swear!"
Hani gave him a hard look, trying to find any signs of a lie in his words, but he was either telling the truth, or he was a very good liar and she highly doubted the latter. She tossed the weapon back on the stack, "Fine, I believe you." With the initial shock now worn off, she threw the blankets back onto the bed. "But I'm still mad at you."
Gai whirled away from her now lightly covered form and tried his best to hide his embarrassment.
Hani moved around the room like nothing was amiss. "I don't appreciate getting knocked out, no matter how exhausted I am. Promise me you won't do that again."
Gai was nearly staring a hole into the wall in front of him.
"Gai?"
He heard her foot falls come up to his side and flinched visibly as she grabbed the tip of his chin and turned his face to hers. "Promise me."
Gai stared at the ceiling above her head, "I promise."
Hani furrowed her brows, "Why won't you look me in the eye?" She turned her head slightly, "Are you ashamed of something?"
He jerked his head free from her hold, "You might be fine with running around half naked, but I'm not."
"We're both adults, Gai." She turned away from him and went about picking up her clothes. "The human body is a beautiful thing; you shouldn't be ashamed of it."
Gai's eyes shifted from their spot on the wall to her bent form – he was a gentleman, not dead.
Hani hopped on one foot as she pulled on a sock. "Weren't you supposed to spar with Makoto today?"
Gai watched her dress like it was the most fascinating thing he had ever seen.
"Gai?" asked Hani as she looked at him from over her shoulder.
"Hmm?"
"Makoto – sparing – today?"
Gai blinked a few times as her words fought against the current of naughty thoughts that were flooding his mind. "Makoto?"
Hani turned to him and propped a hand on her hip and used her other hand to wave at him, "Earth to Gai. Snap out of it."
He looked away sharply and shook his head a few times, "Sorry. You were saying?"
A small, but very mischievous grin crept across Hani's face. "Gai? Were you checking me out?" she asked as she took a few slow steps towards him.
"Don't be ridiculous," he said, turning fully away from her.
She crawled onto the bed and crept up behind him, "You were weren't you?" She saw him clench his jaw. "Aww, that's so cute!" she laughed as she jumped onto his back and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Gah!" he cried as he grabbed at her arms.
"Don't deny your feel-ings!" she sang, teasing him more. She had to exact her revenge somehow.
"Get off, crazy woman!" he snapped, tugging on her arms.
She brought her mouth to his ear. "Don't worry Gai, I don't bite. Unless you want me to," she giggled as she leaned in for a chaste kiss on his cheek.
Gai yanked his face away from her, "Damnit woman!" He wiped his cheek with the back of his hand. "Stop that and get off!"
She buried her face into his neck and giggled more, "I don't have cooties, Gai."
He released a shuddered breath, "H-Hani stop – please."
She didn't hear the change in his voice, "What's the matter? A big strong guy like you can't handle a little thing like me?" She was on a roll and couldn't stop her taunting, "Where's all that strength now, Big Guy?"
Gai took two quick breaths before yanking her arms free, spinning fully around and forcing her against the bed. He pinned her arms over her head and pushed his knees under her body, up to her hips, forcing her legs to wrap around him.
Hani's eyes were doubled in size as Gai leaned over her, panting hard enough to make a few tuffs of her hair pulse with each breath. When he finally spoke, his voice was hoarse and strained, "I said 'stop'."
"I'm sorry," was all she could say, her expression still one of shock. "I-I was just joking around –"
"Shh … don't say another word … please."
Hani watched quietly as Gai ran his eyes over her a few times, burning everything into his mind. "Hani," he finally said. "I know you don't know this about me, but I am called hot-blooded for a reason." She felt his grip on her wrists tighten, "And I won't lie – I find you extremely attractive." He ran a hand down one of her arms slowly. "But," he sat up, releasing his hold on her. "You deserve more than just becoming a plaything to my desires."
Hani's jaw nearly dropped – she had never heard a man say something even remotely similar to that before, let alone actually be able to withdraw himself from such a situation.
He took her knees and removed her legs from around him, almost painfully. "I'm supposed to meet Makoto in a few minutes; I still need to get ready." Still on his knees, he walked backwards off the bed. "It would be nice if you joined us."
Hani sat up in her elbows slowly, "You know I can't fight while I'm undercover."
Gai shrugged, "It would still be nice to have your company."
Hani was speechless.
"Either way, I'll see you later." He turned reluctantly, taking one last look at her laying half naked on the bed. A voice in his head was screaming, 'How could you pass up an opportunity like that?!' Another part yelled, 'Youth – you can't deny it!' and one small voice saying, 'Great job Gai! You still deserve the "Nice Guy" title."
Regardless, every step away from her hurt more than the last.
----
"Gah!" winced Makoto as Gai slapped away his fist. He retreated a few steps, regrouped his stance and threw a few more punches at his sparring partner.
Gai slapped away each strike with minimal effort and with only one hand.
"Ouch, ouch, ow!" shouted Makoto. "Damnit!"
Gai grinned, "I'm showing you it is possible to fully defend yourself with one hand when you have a good rhythm and form."
"I understand that part," whined the Captain. "But do you have to slap? It stings!"
Gai shook his head and rolled his eyes, "It makes you think twice about using useless attacks, doesn't it?"
Makoto rubbed his red, sore hands, "Have I not already told you how slow of a learner I am?" He tilted his head towards his children who where a few feet away, playing with bamboo swords.
"Don't sell yourself short," laughed Gai. "You've learned everything I've taught you fairly quickly."
Makoto blew cold air on his knuckles, "Yeah, out of self-defense."
"Best way to learn."
Makoto eyed the shinobi for a few seconds, "Hey, can I ask you a question?"
Gai relaxed his stance, "Sure." He adjusted this hakama pants. They were far too baggy for his tastes, but apparently they were what Hakanza wore when he trained. The skin tight "bodysuit" tank top he wore was much more to his liking however.
"What's eating you?"
Gai furrowed his brows, "What do you mean?"
Makoto shrugged, "I don't know what got up your craw, but you've had this doom cloud over your head since you got here."
Gai looked away, "I don't know what you're talking about."
"Please tell me not all ninja lie as bad as you," said Makoto with a raised eyebrow.
Yuichi's voice cut through their conversation like a knife, "Dad!"
Makoto didn't take his eyes of Gai, "What is it son?"
"This sword gave me a splinter!"
"Rub some dirt on it and take it like a man." He nodded to Gai, "You were saying?"
Gai shot the Captain a glare, "It's personal."
"Mmm, I see."
"What does that mean?"
"Nothing."
"Now who's the bad liar?"
Makoto grinned, "So which one of you is the reluctant one?"
Gai furrowed his brows, "What?"
"You or Hani? Which one is holding back?"
But before Gai could answer, the sound of a door opening echoed through the small sparring grounds. Both men looked over and watched as Oda walked through the door, turned, took Hani's hand and helped her step down and then pointed to a set of seats under the mansion's awning. Hani, who was wearing a long, elegant baby blue kimono, nodded quietly to the servant as he left.
Makoto looked from Gai to Hani and back again; noting the expression in Gai's face, "Ahhh, now I see."
Gai eyed his sparring partner, "See what?"
"The 'House Divided' is in you – not between you two."
"I don't understand."
Makoto took a step closer to his new friend so only he could hear, "You like her – but you don't want to."
Gai watched him silently.
"I've seen it before – like the pauper falling in love with the princess. He loves the woman, but feels he doesn't deserve her, nor does he think they will ever truly be together. So he's filled with nothing but regret and anguish. In a way, it's like a curse – and you can't cure a curse that you've put on yourself. It takes both of ya."
Gai blinked a few times, "That's really profound, Makoto. Did you come up with that yourself?"
"Nah," laughed the Captain. He jerked his head over his shoulder, "It's in one of the storybooks I read the boys at night." He gave Gai a quick jab with his finger, "But it's true."
Gai rubbed at the poked area, "I don't think it would work out –"
"See?! That's the kind of reluctant bullshit you need to forget about. If I want to achieve my goal, then you need to stop thinking that way."
Gai lifted a brow, "What 'goal'?"
"To get you," Makoto pointed to Gai with his left hand. "And her," then he pointed to Hani with his right hand and then brought his two fingers together, symbolizing his meaning.
Gai eyed the man, why would Makoto care about his relationship with Hani?
Then Makoto got a devilish grin and made a circle with his thumb and the index finger of his right hand and used the finger in his left hand to poke through the ring a few times.
Gai caught the perverted gesture immediately and grabbed the man's hands, shielding them from Hani's view who was thankfully looking the other way. "Stop that!" he said with a quick smack to back of the man's head.
Makoto grabbed his new injury and burst into laughter – it was worth it, just to see the look on Gai's face.
"Can we just spar?" asked Gai in desperation.
Makoto, who was still chuckling, took a fighting stance, "Sure."
But before the two warriors could battle, the sound of a wailing child echoed throughout the field.
Gai's head jerked to the direction of the children, did someone get hurt?
Makoto, on the other hand, casually turned to his kids. He knew the difference between when one of his children were crying from pain and crying just to be loud.
Both men jumped as a tiny form came bolting between them, arms failing and a dust trail racing towards the seats under the awning.
Hani, who was finally getting comfortable, reacted how nearly every other woman would react. She bent down and held her arms out as Yoyo dove into her. Kissing her cheek and clinging to her neck. "Okay, okay, Yoyo. Calm down." She pulled out a handkerchief and brought it to the child's face. "You've got a runny nose there kiddo. I really don't want to wear that," she laughed.
Makoto puffed his chest out like a robin, "That's ma'boy!"
Gai chuckled, "Your son is going to grow up to be a letch at this point, Makoto."
"Just like his old man," grinned the Captain. He pretended to wipe away a tear, "In fact, that's how I caught his mother's eye."
"By wiping your snot-covered nose all over her face?"
"No! – Well … maybe. I was fifteen, so I can't really remember."
Gai crossed his arms, "If you don't mind me asking – how old are you?"
Makoto sucked in his already narrow stomach and pulled up his pants, "32 – look great for my age, don't I? It's my wife's healthy cooking."
"Actually, I thought you were already 40."
Makoto nearly fell over, "It's because of the gray hairs, isn't it? That's the boys' fault."
Gai gave him a sheepish grin, "Uh yeah, that's it."
"Can we just spar?" asked Makoto, echoing Gai's earlier desperation.
Gai resumed his stance and grinned, "Sure."
There was an anxious moment before, as usual, Makoto threw the first punch. Gai blocked the attack easily and countered. This time, the Captain was ready and threw up his own block. They went back and forth a few times, until Makoto brought his right leg up and tried to give Gai a swift kick to the head. This attack actually shocked the ninja as it was explained to him earlier that Makoto had bad hips from too much marching as a soldier and was no longer able to lift his leg above his waist. It was apparent that information wasn't entirely true.
Gai dodged the kick by dropping to his knee and countered by sending a sharp uppercut to the Captain's groin – not realizing what he had done till it was too late.
Every person on the training field, including Hani winced.
"GUH!" cringed Makoto as he doubled over and grabbed his hurting pride. It took all of his willpower to not fall to the ground and curl up into the fetal position.
"Shit, Makoto! I'm sorry – It was a reflex!" blurted Gai.
Makoto held up a shaky hand. "It's okay …" he squeaked. He turned around and tried to walk it off; giving each leg a small shake as he went.
"That's it Dad! Take it like a man! Rub some dirt on it!" shouted Yuichi.
Makoto grinned at the boy, "Not quite the same thing, son – but I like how you think!" He adjusted himself a few times, "I knew I should have worn a cup today." He straightened his pants and brushed off his shirt. "It's a good thing that being married for 15 years has left me with hardly any balls to bust," he joked.
"Captain Makoto?"
The soldier's ears perked up, it wasn't everyday he heard his name being called by such a sultry voice.
"Come here please," said Hani with a small wave.
Gai watched as the Captain practically skipped to her side – that man really was a letch.
She adjusted Yoyo who was sitting on her lap, sucking on his thumb and staring off into space with a dazed expression. "Come here," she said again, beckoning his ear with her finger.
Gai eyed them suspiciously as Hani covered her mouth and went about whispering something into Makoto's ear.
"Uh-huh … yeah. I understand. Mhmm. Oh really? Oh, I see. Yeah – okay, I'll try that," he said with a smile.
Hani gave him a small wink before he jogged back to his sparring position on the field.
Gai shot her a suspicious look and then eyed the smirk on Makoto's face. "What did she tell you?"
Makoto shrugged, "Nothing."
Gai put his hands on his hips and glared at the man.
"Haha! No offense, but if it works – she's my new sensei," laughed Makoto. He resumed his stance, not able to wipe the grin from his face.
Gai stole a glance back at Hani before retaking his own battle stance. He waited, and waited but Makoto never attacked. Figuring this had to do with what Hani shared with him, he decided he would attack first. He faked with his left hand and quickly followed through with a right roundhouse punch. But instead of blocking, Makoto sidestepped the attack and grabbed Gai's wrist with his own right hand, then pulled the punch through and promptly sent his left elbow into Gai's exposed ribs.
"Guh!" winced Gai. The hit had landed right on the ribs he had injured earlier that week – they weren't as healed as he had thought. Then his world went end-over-end as Makoto pulled Gai's arm over his shoulder and threw the ninja to the ground.
"Yay Daddy!" called Makoto's two oldest boys.
"Yeah!" he shouted in response. He ran to his children and flexed his muscles in an over dramatic way. "Who's the man?!"
"You are Dad!"
Gai sat up on his elbow and used his free hand to check his ribs. He then looked over to Hani. She had her face turned down, eyes closed and was covering her mouth with her hand; but signs of a wide grin peaked out from behind her fingers.
What did she tell him? She didn't know about his injured ribs, so that couldn't have been it.
"Shall we go again, M'Lord?" laughed Makoto as he offered Gai a hand.
The Jounin took the Captain's offer and stood; brushing himself off. "I don't know what she told you, Makoto. But that won't happen again."
The Captain only grinned in response and retook his stance.
There was another quite moment between them – Makoto didn't attack, so Gai acted. With amazing speed, he bent his left leg up to his chest, hopped onto his right foot, then quickly sent his left leg down and brought his right foot around in a wide, sweeping kick. Instead of blocking it, Makoto charged forward like a linebacker, sending his shoulder into Gai's groin. Fortunately the ninja threw in a last minute block before he was permanently castrated. But the block didn't save him from Makoto's force and he was thrown back a good 15 feet. He forced his body into a spin and caught himself on the balls of his feet and forearm. He hadn't hit the ground, but it was pretty damn close.
"OOOWA!" celebrated Makoto as he threw his hands into the air in victory.
"Yeah Dad!" cheered his sons.
Gai gritted his teeth and threw a dirty look at Hani. She was now hiding her face behind Yoyo's head, but the slight jumping of her shoulders told him she was laughing pretty hard. He stood up slowly; brushing the gravel from his now skinned arm. His taijutsu trained brain analyzed the two fights, trying to figure out what was different. Aside from Makoto no longer attacking first, the differences were not all that clear. Except … Gai blinked in realization. He was no longer trying to attack with brute strength alone. He was using Gai's momentum against him. It wasn't a natural way to fight, since it took more practice and went against one's own instinct when fighting and blocking. But it was very effective and even more so against someone of Gai's strength. But fortunately, Gai had a counter for it. "OK, I know what's going on. Let's try that again," said Gai as he adjusted his shirt.
"Hell no."
Gai blanched, "What?!"
"If you know what I'm doing then I'm stopping here." Makoto grinned, "I like to end on a high note."
Gai needed to redeem himself, "Just once more."
"Nnnnnope."
"Please?"
"Don't beg in front of the Lady."
Gai clenched his fists, "Grrr, fine!"
Makoto twirled around to his two boys and threw out his hands, "How about some skin for your old man who beat the Lord of the mansion?!" The children rushed forward, giving their father high-fives and tackling his legs. Seeing the fun his brothers were having, Yoyo slid off Hani's lap and charged into the chaotic tackle pile of his family.
Gai walked up to Hani slowly; his eyes squinting at her.
"Oh, don't give me that dirty look," she laughed.
"Are you proud of yourself?"
She stood and moved to his side. She gave him a small grin before reaching down and taking his hand.
Gai watched her lift his arm and survey his new injury. "It's fine."
She lowered his arm but still held onto his hand, "Are you mad at me?"
He looked away, "No."
"That sounded convincing." When he didn't answer her, she let go of his hand and placed it on his shoulder, "Come on. Let's get you cleaned up."
----
"You should have told me you had injured your ribs," said Hani as she tugged on the binding she was now wrapping around his chest. They were sitting on the floor of her room, warming themselves by the fire.
"What difference would it have made?"
Hani gave a hard yank on the cloth, eliciting a small wince from her patient. "We're supposed to be a team, Gai. Besides, no one can bind their ribs correctly by themselves." She held her hand out over his shoulder.
He handed her a strip of tape he was holding.
"It looks like you were almost completely healed, but that shot from Makoto must have reinjured them. You should probably hold off sparing till they are done healing." She held her hand out and was given the last strip of tape. "Let me know if this needs to be redone."
"Okay."
"Alright, I'm done here. Let me see your arm."
"My arms fine – it's just a little skinned."
"Gai, I've got the equipment out – it wouldn't hurt to just have me clean it."
Figuring it was useless to argue, Gai turned around, held out his arm and fell against the bed in defeat.
Hani bunched her skirts around her legs and moved in closer. She had stripped off her obi and outer kimono. It was hard to do any sitting in all of that clothing.
Her room didn't have much in the way of lighting, being a traditional mansion so as she took his arm, she had to bend his wound towards the fire for a better look. "Yeah, it's not that bad, I guess." She leaned over and pulled out some medicine from her bag. She then unscrewed a bottle and poured its contents over a piece of gauze. "This is going to sting," she said before patting at his arm with it.
Gai gritted his teeth – this was reminiscent of the splinter episode. "So, who taught you first aid?"
Hani smiled, "My grandmother – she's a retired medic."
"Is she also a Hachi?"
"Mhmn … why do you ask?"
"I just thought … I just thought all Hachi women share the same line of work."
Hani blew on his skin, trying to dry the medicine. "She was, but she retired from that when she got married."
"Did she marry a ninja?"
Hani smiled, "No." She stood up and threw the gauze away in a waste basket. "My grandma isn't one for male shinobi – says it's a widow's curse to fall in love with one." She walked to her closet and pulled out an instrument case and then carried it to Gai's side. She opened it and pulled out her erhu. "Instead, she married an instrument maker." She held the instrument out for Gai to take.
"No, I couldn't. I could barely hold a teacup –"
"I trust you."
Gai looked at her and then back at the instrument, taking it lightly and ever-so carefully. "It's beautiful", he said as he scanned it with his eyes.
"Thank you. It was the last one my grandfather ever made." She moved next to him and leaned against the bed. "My grandmother was working as a spy in the tea country for about a year. Every month she would take her old erhu to a little shop for tuning and maintenance."
"I take it your grandpa owned that shop?"
Hani nodded, "That's right." She stared deep into the fire and recalled her favorite bedtime story. "My grandpa fell in love with her the first time he laid eyes on her. He tried anything to get to know her better, but my grandma kept her distance. It's forbidden for Hachi women to –" She looked in Gai's direction briefly before continuing. "Her mission was almost over, so she didn't want to break his heart when she never returned."
Gai handed the instrument back to her and she returned it to its case. "So, my grandpa, in a last ditch effort, scoured the country for the perfect materials to make the perfect erhu. When the last month came that my grandmother was expected to visit, he gave her this. He told her it was something he wanted her to have, to remember him by."
Gai smiled.
"Well, my grandma was amazed and extremely flattered. No one had ever done something so nice for her before. And truth be told, she didn't want for it to be their last meeting either. So, a few weeks later, my grandmother retired from being a Willow Warrior and later that year, they were married."
"And your mother came a few years later?"
Hani shook her head, "Actually, my mother was five at the time."
Gai blinked, "Oh. But you said he was your grandpa?"
"He was my grandpa, by marriage. My grandfather was someone completely different."
Not feeling it was his place to question her, he moved on. "So, you're close with your grandma?"
"Very much," smiled Hani.
"What about your mother?"
"She's dead," said Hani flatly.
Gai flinched slightly, "I'm sorry to hear that."
Hani shuddered as a chill blew through the room, "Don't be, she was a terrible person – the world is a better place without her."
Silently, Gai reached over and took the kimono he had brought to Hani's room and draped it across her.
"Thank you," said Hani as she pull it over her shoulders.
"So, what about your father?"
Her mouth formed into a kind smile, "He was a brave and brilliant shinobi. He died when Orochimaru attacked Konoha."
"Were you two close?"
"Not as much as we would have liked. I didn't get to know him till I was a teenager." She titled her head to the side and rubbed at her neck.
"Do you have any siblings?"
"I have a brother – and a step brother. But I don't know either of them very well."
"Are they ninja?"
"My brother is –"
"How old is he? Do I know him?" asked Gai, eager to find out if he had any ties to Hani or her family.
Hani scratched at her cheek, "Huh – he's a few years older than me. I-I don't think you'd know him."
"What rank is he?"
Hani cringed, "A Jounin." She couldn't lie. What if he really did know her brother?
"A Jounin? Then I probably know him – there are only a few in the village, and the fact that he's close to my age. Heck, I probably work with him –" He paused as his mind quickly ran through the roster of men who fit those demographics and he couldn't believe she would be related to any of them. "Wait – who did you say your father was?"
"What about you? Do you have any siblings?"
Gai watched her a few moments. It was obvious she was trying to change the subject – but for what reason, he didn't know. "No, I'm an only child."
"Your parents?"
"Still alive and married."
"Are you anything like them?"
Gai chuckled, "Yeah – I guess so. I get my personality from my father and my mother wanted to be sure I grew up with a good heart."
"Where did she go wrong?" joked Hani.
"Hey!" laughed Gai as he nudged her with an elbow.
Hani was still giggling as she asked her next question, "Did you learn any of your techniques from your parents?"
"My father taught me the Gate Technique. And my mother is brilliant with weapons – the nunchaku and bow staff. But they are both retired – my father sustained a serious injury after opening the gates during a mission and my mother retired to become a stay-at-home mom."
"Are you close to them?"
"Oh yeah – I visit them at least once every couple weeks for dinner. My mother would hunt me down if I didn't. It's nice though, they like to get updates on my students and work."
Hani leaned into him and rested her head on his shoulder, "Why don't you tell me more about your team."
"I thought you'd never ask!" smiled Gai. "Hmm, where to start? Well, there's Tenten –"
"She's the weapons expert right?"
Gai was surprised she remembered, "Yes – very talented and smart. She keeps the rest of us boys well-grounded."
"I like her already."
"And there's Neji Hyuuga. He's quite the genius – though I don't know what else I could teach him. He trains with his uncle now in a technique that's a bit too 'gentle' for my style."
"And your little protégé?"
"Lee? Ah – he's a good kid. Full of youth and spirit! He had a few harsh run-ins with our fighting technique, but I think he's found a good balance."
"And what rank are they?"
"Genin – but I'm having them enter the next chuunin exams."
Hani rubbed at her neck again and winced, "I wish them luck."
Gai eyed her, "Is your neck bothering you?"
"Hmm? Oh, it's just a little stiff."
He watched her for a few moments before speaking, "If you would like, I could rub your shoulders for you."
"You'd do that?"
"Sure! You fixed my neck – it's the least I could do."
Hani was quite as she considered his offer.
He held up his hands in a surrendering gesture, "I will be the perfect gentleman."
"Well – alright." She leaned forward. "Where do you want me?"
Gai bit his tongue to keep from making a perverted joke – he promised to be a gentleman. "Right here," he patted the floor between his legs and slid back to give her more room.
Hani stood up and stepped carefully between his legs, then sat cross-legged with her back facing him.
He rubbed his hands together a few times before placing them gently on her delicate shoulders.
Hani all but melted in his grip, "Do you like being a Sensei?"
"I love it! It's the best job I've ever had!" He moved both of his hands to her left shoulder and kneaded at the knots there. "Your shoulders are really tense."
"Yours would be too if you were this top heavy."
"-- What?"
"So tell me Gai … why is it you are still single?"
Gai slowed his massage momentarily as her words sunk in. "Just haven't found the right woman, I guess," he sighed.
"I'm sorry; I didn't know it was a sore subject."
"Nah, it's alright. It's something my students have been pestering me about lately."
"I'm sure they just want you to be happy, Gai."
"So what about you? How could a woman as beautiful as you be single?"
Hani blushed slightly, "You think I'm beautiful?"
Gai halted his massage, threw his head back and roared with laughter.
Hani blushed even brighter, "What's so funny?!"
Still laughing, Gai shook his head, "Nothing – I just think it's hilarious that the most beautiful woman I've ever seen would actually be even remotely unconfident."
Hani fidgeted with her hands in her lap, "I'm not that pretty."
"Nonsense!" he bellowed as she grabbed at her shoulders and rubbed the shrug out of them. "Not even the lotus, in its first or second bloom is as beautiful as you. But you still never answered the question …"
"I – uh …" she might as well tell him – he'd find out sooner or later. "I am of the Hachi clan, a Willow Warrior … I'm not allowed to – have any relationship with a man."
Gai's hands stilled, "No relationship?"
Hani shook her head, "I'm not allowed to fall in love."
Gai looked around the room in an attempt at understanding her words, "Why on earth not and who says so?"
"It's the laws of my clan and they exist for good reason."
"Why?"
"I'm a seductress, Gai. I seduce men in order to get close to them to accomplish my missions. I can't do that if I'm in love with someone else and it wouldn't be fair to the man who loved me in return."
Gai shook his head and continued his massage with a new fervor, "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard."
Hani jerked her head to the side, "What?"
"You can't keep someone from falling in love – regardless if it's a rule or a law." He shook his head, "It's the most natural thing about being human – we're made to love each other."
Hani looked down at her hands as she listened to him speak.
"My parents taught me that everyone is only one-half of a whole. The only way you can feel complete is when you are with the person you love."
"My whole life, I've been taught how not to love," said Hani weakly.
"How's that working for you?" asked Gai with a sarcastic and somewhat heated tone. He was angry that such a ridiculous law could actually exist, regardless of its purpose. It would be like telling someone they were no longer allowed to breathe. "Are you happy living life that way?"
"A shinobi's life isn't about being happy --"
Gai grabbed her shoulders and pulled her back against his chest. "Do you honestly believe that?" he asked in her ear.
Hani skewed her eyes shut; unable to answer him. "Why do you care? Before this mission, you didn't even know me."
Gai leaned back, resting his head against the bed, "I'd like to think you have become my friend at least." He let go of her shoulders and propped his wrists up on his knees.
Hani adjusted herself into a better position against his chest; using him as a makeshift recliner. After a few moments, she reached up and removed her hair sticks. "I take it you've been in love before?"
Gai took a deep breath and sighed, "Yeah … once."
Hani rested her head on the center of his chest, "What happened, if you don't mind me asking."
"She didn't return home from a mission."
Hani closed her eyes, "I'm sorry – how old were you?"
"15."
Hani turned her head to look up into his face, "My god, Gai. I'm so sorry. Did she know how you felt?"
Gai took a slow breath, Hani's small form lifting under the pressure, "No."
She turned her head and rested her cheek against his peck, "I'm sorry."
They sat in silence for a few moments, simply sharing each other's company.
"Gai?" asked Hani in a small voice.
"Hmm?"
"What does it feel like, to be in love?"
Gai stared up into the ceiling and grinned, "Painful."
"Wow, that's convincing," snorted Hani. "Maybe my ancestors didn't have such a bad idea making love forbidden for my family."
He poked a finger into her side playfully, "Not that kind of pain."
Hani jerked away, "Then what kind of pain is it?"
"It's the kind that reminds you you're alive."
"I thought all pain was that way for you Gai – you're clearly a glutton for punishment."
He flopped his head back against the bed hard enough to make it bounce. She just couldn't understand. And he didn't think he was the best qualified to explain it to her.
Hani grabbed at a few strands of her hair and played with it between her fingers, "How do you know when you're in love?"
Gai was quite for a long moment. "When you eat something so delicious, you want nothing more than to share it with that person. When you hear a funny joke and want nothing more than to tell it to her, just so you could hear her laughter. When you see a beautiful sight and wish with all your heart you were sharing that moment with her. When she's the first thing you think about in the morning and the last thing you think about before you fall asleep – that's when you know you're in love."
Hani's hands halted their movement. "Wow," she said in a small voice.
"Yeah," he chuckled. "It's the most powerful jutsu to ever exist."
Hani settled herself into Gai's body better; resting her head under his chin.
"So, do you honestly believe you'll never fall in love?" asked Gai in a soft voice.
"If I did, I'd have to retire as a Willow Warrior."
"Then I could train you, right?" grinned Gai.
Hani dropped her hands into her lap, "You're not bringing up that crap again are you?!"
"But Hani-chan! My training could do wonders for you! I could double – no, quadruple your strength and better your endurance –"
"Gai," snapped Hani as she shot the back of her hand up to his face. He flinched, fearing she was going to smack him. "What do you see?"
He blinked a few times, "Your hand."
"Yes. Anything else?"
He shook his head, not understanding what she was getting at, "No."
She used the same hand to grab one of his and brought them both up to his face. "Now what do you see?"
"My … hand?"
She shook it a few times, "What else?"
He looked over his battered knuckles, "Scars."
"Exactly. What would a nobleman say if I handed him a cup of tea with hands that looked like yours?"
Gai didn't answer.
"He'd probably think I was some peasant or an imposter, regardless – he would call them ugly and send me away in disgust. Noblemen expect perfection."
Gai watched their hands for a few moments before moving his slowly out of her grip and taking her delicate hand in his own. "I would still think they were beautiful," he said, bringing her knuckles to his lips and laying a soft kiss on them.
Hani's head snapped to look at him; her eyes wide with surprise.
"Scars are signs of hard work and determination – a commitment to better yourself. They show you are willing to do what it takes to defend yourself and the ones you care about. They speak more volumes about a person than the perfect wardrobe or greatest accessory. If I could choose between having perfect skin or having a body that would allow me to defend the ones I loved, then I would always choose the latter." He turned his face to her and looked deep into her eyes, "Without question."
Hani felt her cheeks blush wildly under his stare; it was as if his eyes were piercing deep into her soul.
He leaned into her slowly, bringing his face closer and closer to hers. He let go of her hand and placed it gently against her cheek and trailed a finger along her jaw line to her chin; tilting her face up to his. But as his lips came within just centimeters of hers, she turned her face away at the last second. He lingered painfully for a moment, before falling against the bed with another "thud". "I should probably go," he said, taking her shoulders and pushing on them lightly.
Hani's eyes darted around the room in panic. She quickly put her hands on his legs and pushed back against him, "N-no ... I want you to stay."
Gai stilled, "Why?" He watched quietly as Hani took a few deep breaths, sat up and turned around to face him. She brought her eyes up slowly to meet his and lock him in a penetrating stare as she moved forward and placed her hands on his knees, gently forcing them to the ground; the collar of her kimono slipped down off one of her shoulders and pooled at the crook of her arm. Gai unconsciously held his breath as she moved closer, sliding her delicate hands up his thighs, to his bare chest and then to his shoulders. He couldn't help but tense a little as she wrapped her arms around his neck and crawled, one leg at a time, onto his lap.
Gai closed his eyes as blood rushed throughout his body – there were few men in the world that wouldn't react to having such a provocative woman straddle them. But, being the ever eternal gentleman, Gai kept his hands at his sides.
Hani brought a hand to his cheek and ran her fingers across his skin – he could tell by the friction that he was already in need of another shave. But his mind only lingered on that thought for an instant as her hand slid leisurely down his neck.
Feeling he finally had permission to touch her, Gai brought his hands to the small of her back and moved his fingers across the soft tie of her kimono. He looked into her half-lidded eyes, not entirely sure what he would see there. But he was surprised to find Hani wasn't looking into his eyes, but instead, they were focused intently on his mouth. She bit longingly at her own lip, signifying she was fighting an internal battle.
Gai tilted his head to side and admired how the fire accentuated and illuminated her. She was beautiful in any light, but now she looked purely enchanting. "You are stunning," he said simply.
Hani jumped like his words had just released her from a genjutsu. "So are you," she said with a small smile.
He chuckled lightly at her response and ran his hand up her back and traced the top of her exposed shoulder; moving up to her neck and then laced his fingers into her long, flowing hair. She welcomed his actions by closing her eyes and moving her head to the side to give him better access. "Hani," he whispered as he watched her.
The kunoichi returned her hand to his faced and skimmed her fingers over the edges of his lips. She grinned as his body quaked from her touch. "I told you," she said with a small grin. "You are ticklish."
"You should have bet on it," he said with a gruff voice. He was grateful she hadn't. He had been so sure he wasn't ticklish -- he would have made a very costly wager to prove it.
Hani chuckled lightly as she leaned into him, bringing her face so close, Gai could almost feel the heat from her flushed cheeks.
She brought her forehead down and pressed it against his. Gai looked up into her closed eyes and couldn't help but tent his brows. She certainly seemed troubled and in some sort of turmoil. In an attempt to offer her solace, he placed his hand at the side of her head and used his thumb to stroke the flesh just below her ear.
Feeling the tension in her body relax, Gai tilted his chin upward and affectionately brushed his nose against hers. Hani couldn't help but chuckle softly at him; this type of affection was often reserved for longtime lovers. "You're too sweet," she said with a small grin.
He stroked his thumb over her ear and caressed the side of her head with his large hand, "You make it easy."
She chuckled again; still maintaining her distance. "I … we shouldn't be doing this …"
"Hani," said Gai in a steady voice. "If you don't want to go any further ... I will understand --"
She quickly slid her hands to his shoulders and clung again at his neck. Anticipating her next move, Gai closed his eyes and braced himself.
There was only a brief moment before he felt her body shift and the featherweight touch of her lips against his. Not knowing if she had the willpower to go any farther and feeling he should meet her halfway, Gai tilted his chin up to hers; fully sealing their kiss.
As their lips pressed together, Gai thought he would melt from the heat of her touch alone. Her lips were so smooth and full -- just like the rest of her body. The energy and electricity he felt from the kiss they now shared made his real first kiss become nothing but a long forgotten memory. He tilted his chin into her again, his actions eliciting a small moan from deep in her throat.
Hani was amazed at the power she could sense within his body and marveled at how he was able to rein it in. Like a dam holding back a raging river – if he ever lost control – it made Hani's head spin to even consider what the outcome would be.
It was her mouth that opened first; but only slightly. Gai was quick to mirror her and as their tongues met each other shyly, neither could keep from shuddering.
It didn't take them long to learn the other's rhythm; each press of their lips becoming more heated than the last. Before long, the sounds of their kisses echoed throughout the room and in their ears, bringing their desires to a whole new level.
"Gai," purred Hani as his lips left hers and moved to her cheek and down her neck – he couldn't get enough of her sweet taste – like sugar water or even … honey, like her name suggests. And the wonderfully powerful fragrance of honeysuckle nearly overwhelmed his other senses.
He wrapped one arm around her waist and pulled her into him tightly, pressing her luscious body against his. He used his other hand to grab at the simple spaghetti-stringed strap of her tank top and pulled it down her bare shoulder. Hani ran her fingers into his hair and bit at her lip, as his mouth moved to her collarbone.
Hani shuddered again as another breeze moved through the room and chilled her. She had noticed Gai's skin to be warm to the touch before – probably because of the elemental fire than ran through his veins, but now he felt so hot, it was like she was sitting on a raging fire.
"Hani?" asked Gai, his breath tickling her neck.
"Yes?"
"Why ... why is my mouth tingling?"
Hani yanked painfully on his hair to pull his head away from her, "What did you just say?"
He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, "My lips and tongue -- they're tingling."
Hani quickly brought a hand to her neck and tested her skin. She blanched as she suddenly realized just how sweaty she really was – her whole skin was coated in a light layer of moisture. "Oh no -- I didn't realize I was that hot."
"What's wrong?" he asked wiping his mouth again; now it was starting to burn.
"It's my Zeru-Roiyaru … my sweat is laced with it …"
Gai blinked a few times, not understanding what she was getting at.
"My sweat … is a natural aphrodisiac," she winced.
As if her words where the incantation to a spell, Gai literally felt his pupils begin to dilate and his pulse quicken. It was just like the time at the restaurant when he had gotten caught up in her Zeru-Roiyaru before. His head fell back against the bed and he stared up into the ceiling as the chemicals coursed through his body – it was as if he had just been drugged.
"Gai – Gai?!" said Hani as she grabbed his shoulders. "Hang on Gai; I'll get you some water!" She went to stand, but Gai quickly grabbed at the sleeve of her kimono and yanked her back down.
"How long does it last?" he asked in a hoarse voice.
She looked down at his hand; it was clinging to her dress with a trembling, white-knuckled grip. "A few minutes – you didn't get a very large dose …" Gai clenched his eyes shut and breathed so hard, Hani feared he would hyperventilate. She knitted her brows; this must be torture for him. "We should take you outside – the fresh air might help." She started to stand again, but he yanked her back down roughly.
"No!" he snapped. He lifted his head, his whole body shaking, "I promised … I wouldn't make you a plaything, and this test will prove it to you." He lifted a wobbly hand and gave her a small thumb up before dropping his head back against the bed again.
"Gai," she whispered. Was he even real? What kind of man could endure something like this or even care to try? Why was he so determined to prove to her that he had the willpower to not tear into her like so many men before him? She tented her brows as she watched him jerk his face to the side and yank painfully at her sleeve.
This was all her fault – she shouldn't have let it go as far as she had. If she had only maintained some level of professionalism, then none of this would have happened. She clenched her own hands into fists; she should do something – make up for this horrible torture he was going through. But she knew if she helped him find any release right now, Gai would never forgive himself. The best thing she could do was keep her distance … like she should have in the first place.
After a few minutes of teeth clenching agony, Gai's breath finally slowed and the death grip he had on her clothing relaxed. "Ugh … gods," he sighed. "That was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life."
Hani lowered her head and spoke with a meek voice, "I'm sorry."
Noting her tone, Gai's head snapped up. "What? No – it's not your fault."
She lowered her head even more, "How could it not be?"
Gai opened his mouth to answer but nothing came out. He didn't know what to say. Instead, he brought a hand up and lightly stroked her shoulder to offer her some form of comfort.
She took his hand and stilled his actions, "Don't. I don't deserve your condolences." She tightened her grip, "And I certainly don't deserve you."
Gai knitted his brows, "Hani –"
She shook her head. "You do not caress a china doll, Gai," she said, using his reference from earlier. "They are left on a shelf, out of reach, to be admired." She removed his hand, "And you deserve someone who is, at the very least, capable of love."
Gai opened his mouth again to speak, but instead of his voice, a loud bell-like clarion echoed throughout the room.
Both ninja jumped. "What is that?" asked Hani as she jerked her head up. Gai's head snapped over his shoulder to look at her window, it was dark out and the clock on her table said it was after 6pm. "I don't know, but I don't think it's good."
"Gai, feel this," said Hani. Her hand was pressed flat against the floor.
He did the same, "Someone is coming – and they're running at top speed."
Having been drilled on states of emergency more times than they could count, both ninja stood as quickly as they could. Gai took his jacket and quickly donned it. Hani moved to her bed and threw on her outer kimono and went about tying her obi with amazing speed and skill.
The sound of the wing's door being thrown open echoed through the courtyard, as did the footfalls that came shortly after. By the time Hani's bedroom door opened, both ninja were prepared and ready for action.
"Sir!" shouted the messenger as he burst through the doorway.
"What is it Oda?" asked Gai in concern. The servant was coated in sweat and had a look of terror on his face.
"It's the village sir," he panted. "… It's on fire."
Gai spun around. Both he and Hani shared a wide-eyed, worried stare.
The sound of the village's emergency bells filled the room like a child's cry for help.
--
Thank you, for reading!