Chapter 28: Never a Problem to Me

Jiraya and Kakashi both stood against the wall, their arms folded and eyes wary as they watched the early risers shuffle past barely noticing their presence. They were a 1000 km from Konoha in a small village, Rokugake, that was the current training spot for Naruto.

Jiraya spoke without making eye contact. He asked gravely, "How valid do you think your information is Kakashi?"

"It's true, Jiraya-sama."

"And Sasuke?"

"I would assume he knows. Orochimaru wouldn't keep that a secret from him."

Jiraya grimaced, "Keeping Sasuke in check has become doubly more difficult."

Kakashi sighed, "It has. But, I find it more troublesome that Itachi is a part of this organization. I wonder what the leader of the Akatsuki plans to do with the Jinchuuriki. With a extremely adept Sharingan-user among their midst, I can't imagine that they have many limitations."

Jiraya replied, his posture determined, "That will be my job, Kakashi. You've done well. It's best if you return to Konoha and stay by Tsunade's side. She will need you. I'll take it from here."

Kakashi hesitated, "Are you sure?"

"Yes, Naruto's training is almost done. I'm afraid I cannot spend more time with him due to the urgency of this matter. I'll send him home soon – I'll leave him to you."

Kakashi nodded, "Of course, Jiraya-sama."

"And, I know that I have no need to say this, but please keep an eye on Kohana for me."

"She will be safe. I am sure that with Maria's training, she has gained some control over her Genkai."

Jiraya took a deep breath, and slowly rubbed his fingers together.

Kakashi frowned, "What is it, Jiraya-sama?"

The older man answered in a lightly tense voice, "Kohana is much too curious. I've told Maria to warn her about the extent of her Genkai's power, and asked her to emphasize the dangers associated with it. But, if she is anything like her mother…I seriously question whether she will heed to our warnings."

Kakashi tilted his head, and said in a comforting tone, "Kohana is intelligent, Jiraya-sama. She won't do anything to jeopardize her life, especially not against your wishes."

Jiraya shrugged, "I hope not." He added in a soft voice, reminiscing about his past, "But, people will do anything for love."

It had been two weeks since Maria's departure, and Kakashi had still not returned. She was excited to see Sai and Sakura in the market a week ago, but found out that Kakashi had not accompanied them back. She eagerly awaited his return, feeling much more excited than usual. The talk with Maria had confirmed an important doubt – no one had yet captured Kakashi's heart and Kohana was determined to be the first and only one.

Fortunately, the wait for Kohana was not idly spent. The night she opened the black book, she was surprised to see a note fall out. She read it quickly, her lips forming a small smile at the words of caution.

Dear Kohana,

This is your mother's diary. It is my fault for not handing this to you sooner, but I felt that you would appreciate it more after your training with Maria. I hope that your mother's thoughts will alleviate any worries and answer any questions that you may have.

Finally, I want you to know that I will be away for a while on business with the Akatsuki. Do not worry about me, but focus on your training. I cannot emphasize this more Kohana– be cautious about your chakra usage. Do not get carried away.

I hope to see you soon.

Love,

Otou-san

The entries in the journal were long, written in tiny print. Kohana couldn't read more than one entry per day, not because she was tired of the minuscule words, but because she had taken up a new job. It had been nearly four months since she came to Konoha, and until now, she had been living on her father's expenses. She went around the village looking for shops to work in and finally found her niche in a small, but popular bookstore. The manager, after seeing Kohana's resume and past experience in accounting, expressed that Kohana was much too overqualified for the job. But, Kohana insisted that she would rather spend her time surrounded by books than in the local bank. The manager reluctantly agreed and scheduled Kohana for daily shifts from 8:00 am -5:00 pm. Kohana loved her job; she scuttled around the store, organizing bookshelves, keeping tally of loaned items, and also charting the book sales.

On her free time at the store, she often conversed with villagers or perused through romance and mystery novels. Gai, who had stopped by two days ago, commented that Kohana had returned to her former jovial personality. When Kohana asked what he meant by that, he answered saying that she was now 'rejuvenated' and seemed to have finally broken out of that moody character that persisted for the past few months. Kohana frowned at his explanation but privately agreed; she did feel much happier.

But, her job wasn't the only reason she hadn't finished her mother's diary. Although Maria had advised Kohana to continue her training so that she could at least become adept at chakra transfer, Tsunade had put her foot down. Since Kohana no longer succumbed to dizzying spells, the 5th didn't see the need for further training. Tsunade worried that Kohana's complete mastery of the Genkai would cause unnecessary interest in her and the village. In a time where the Akatsuki's threat was imminent, Tsunade did not wish to take any chance regarding Kohana's safety or that of Konoha's. And it wasn't to Kohana's surprise that Jiraya conceded. She had received a letter, shortly after her conversation with Tsunade, from her father restating Tsunade's words. Kohana was upset about their decision but knew that a verbal disagreement would not do her any favors.

She decided to take matters into her own hands. What was the point of being bestowed with such a gift if she was prohibited from using it? She was well warned about the dangers, and she appreciated everyone's concern, but did they really expect her to throw her Genkai away? To live her life as if it never existed? She knew her mother saved many lives with her gift, and Kohana felt obligated to do the same. It was as if she was honoring her mother's memory, which she had not been able to do before.

And so unknown to anyone, in the midst of the night, Kohana had pursued her Genkai training to the next level. The journals were plenty instructive and based on Maria's advice, Kohana was able to start Stage 2 of her training. However, she was coming to the point where she could no longer learn from words. She pondered on whom to ask, but no one seemed trustworthy enough to keep her secret. Kurenai and Asuma wouldn't feel comfortable defying the Hokage and Gai was a tai jutsu user, an art that required minimum chakra. There was only one person she repeatedly thought of –someone who could guide her expertly and also keep her secret safe. Convincing Kakashi would be difficult, but she knew that he was her best option. Plus, she thought giddily, extra training would mean more time with him.

The days flew by quickly, and soon Kohana found herself being bombarded with customers on a Thursday afternoon. When Kohana saw the line outside the door, her eyes widened in surprise.

"W-what", Kohana stuttered, unable to imagine a reason for the sudden ambush.

She stumbled slightly when her manager rushed past her, pushing a cart loaded with boxes. Two young boys who she knew were the manger's nephews followed after their uncle, their footsteps quick and hurried. Kohana grabbed the sleeve of the second boy, who turned around with an irritated expression.

She asked urgently, "What's going on? Why are there all those people out there?"

"You don't know? The new sequel to Icha Icha Paradise just came out. They want to buy it."

Kohana let go of the boy and stared outside in disbelief. She remembered when Jiraya gave her a copy of the infamous book. She couldn't fathom why people would want to buy it in public. Given its suggestive content, the book was an item that should be bought and read in utmost privacy. But, it seemed that people didn't care about getting caught with Icha-Icha Paradise in their handbags.

The manager yelled out to Kohana who jumped with a startled expression.

"What are you standing there for Kohana? Go get the register ready. We're going to be making huge sales today! I'll need you to stay past five."

Kohana scowled, but abided the order and stood behind the gray machine, making sure that it was in working order. Kohana had to blink a few times after the manager and the boys finished shelving the books. Anywhere Kohana looked, she was met with teeming heaps of yellow. She sighed and braced herself for the rush of excited, avid readers who were now impatiently knocking on the store's door.

Several hours later, Kohana leaned against the countertop massaging her fingers, a tired expression etched onto her face. "Mr. Hoshimata, it's getting late", she said warily. Her eyes found the clock, which now read 7:30 pm. The older man looked up from his documents and peered at Kohana through his black-framed spectacles. He then glanced at the clock and exclaimed, standing up abruptly, "Oh my, you're right. And I told my wife I would be home half-hour ago. Kohana, please don't think badly of me, but I need to go. Do you mind closing up for me? It's my son's birthday and I promised him I would take him out."

Kohana breathed through her nose and sighed, "I can. Don't worry about it. Do I need to put these extra books in the back room?"

Mr. Hoshimata nodded absent mindedly, packing his leather suitcase, "Yes, dear. Now, have a good night." He waved a quick goodbye and dashed out the door, the bells jingling behind him. Kohana mumbled, "Okay. Guess I won't be training tonight. It's too dark."

She quickly packed the unsold Icha-Icha Paradise books into a box and placed the box on a crate before rolling it to a dingy, dusty room. She coughed slightly, and started to place the books on the steel shelves, using the ladder whenever she couldn't reach the top shelves. She was halfway through the box, quietly humming to fill the silence, when she flinched at a voice behind her.

"Hello, Kohana."

She turned around in surprise, and lost her footing on the ladder, falling into Kakashi's ready hands.

She straightened herself with a flustered expression and exclaimed, "Kakashi!"

Kakashi chuckled, "Imagine my surprise at finding you here."

"I've taken up a job here. I don't want to make my Dad go bankrupt."

Kakashi chuckled, "Did Mr. Hoshimata leave you alone?"

"Some family outing. I was just about to close."

"Looks like I came right on time, then. I've just returned from the Hokage's office after debriefing her. I heard the new sequel for Icha- Icha Paradise just came out today."

Kohana raised her eyebrow, and said sardonically "And you just had to buy it today, didn't you?"

Kakashi flashed her a grin, "You read my mind too well, Kohana-chan. I hope there are copies left."

Kohana nodded, "A few", and handed him the yellow book. She added skeptically, "I don't understand the hype for this story. I've read the first few pages out of curiosity and well it's extremely…suggestive."

Kakashi looked at her with amused eyes, "You want to judge a book after reading a few pages? It's an incredibly well-thought out story written by a proliferative writer."

Kohana scoffed, "Yeah, I can see that. Strange how he keeps himself anonymous."

Kakashi pursed his lips and said quietly to himself, "Good thing he does too. If you found out…well, I think he knows the reaction."

Kohana asked him, distracted by the lock on the front door, "What did you say?"

Kakashi shook his head and flipped off the light before leading Kohana out onto the quiet streets. Kohana examined his appearance and was glad to know that he looked well and uninjured. Yet, he must be hungry.

She offered, "Why don't you have dinner at my place tonight?"

Kakashi tilted his head, and looked at the starry sky, and said after a moment's thought, "Thank you. I would like that."

They sat on the mahogany sofa each holding a cup of coffee in their hands. They had just finished eating (grilled chicken, and a serving of fried rice) when Kohana insisted that Kakashi stay for coffee; they barely spoke while eating and Kohana had much to tell.

Kakashi stated while sipping his drink, "So, I've learned Maria has left. I hope you didn't drive her away."

Kohana scowled at his teasing smile, "Her grandfather fell ill."

"That's unfortunate. I met him once. He must be very old now."

Kohana nodded, "It is sad, but it seemed like she had been dealing with his illness for a while. She didn't leave until she completed her training with me, though."

"I'm glad. Tsunade-sama is also satisfied with your health."

Kohana grimaced, and her lips pressed together. "I would be satisfied too had I not been prohibited from training any further."

Kakashi sighed, "Ah. She did mention something about that. I understand your frustration, Kohana. But, the Hokage has her reasons all of which concern the safety of you and this village."

Kohana shook her head, her bangs settling over her dark brown eyes, "I don't think anyone understands. I've been kept in the dark for my whole life and just when I find out about my family and my talent, I'm told to keep it quiet. How exactly is that fair? I'll throw the question back at you, Kakashi. Would you keep quiet?"

Kakashi pondered this and answered carefully, "I probably wouldn't. But, you and I are different. As a Shinobi, I am obligated to protect Konoha and I would use any measure to do that. You on the other hand are–

Kohana cut him off, her voice intense, "A descendant of the Shiori clan. The Genkai is my one remaining connection to my family, Kakashi." She reached across to her side table, and opened the drawer from which she removed her mother's journals and diary. She sprawled them in front of Kakashi and pointed to them, her voice vigorous, "This is everything my mother wrote and kept account of. She spent her life honing her skill even though she was told not to. And she helped so many people, Kakashi. What better way can I honor her than by following her footsteps?"

Kakashi silently regarded the yellowed pages. He stated softly, "This means a lot to you."

"Yes, it does."

"And so what do you plan to do?" Kakashi inquired.

Kohana licked her lips and took another sip of coffee before answering hesitantly, "Now, don't get upset, Kakashi. But, I've kind of already started to practice Chakra Transfer."

Kakashi raised his eyebrow, and asked, "You have? For some reason, I am not surprised. But, against the Hokage and Jiraya-sama's wishes? That's rebellious even for you."

Kohana rushed into her explanation, "I'm not trying to disobey them. I know they mean well. Yet, this is my fate. Coming here after all these years, meeting you again, and learning about my family –I don't think any of it is a coincidence. I've practiced what I can from these books, but I think I'll need your help."

Kakashi took a deep breath, and asked with an amused expression on his face, "So, now you're asking me to defy them too? Are you sure you still don't hate me? If I'm caught, I'm sure to be punished by the Hokage herself."

Kohana pouted, "Kakashi, I'm being serious."

Kakashi chuckled and to her surprise agreed, "Fine. I will."

Kohana blinked her eyes in disbelief, "What?"

"You heard me."

"I thought this would be difficult. I didn't expect you to agree so easily."

"Well, I see your point and I happen to have another reason. The Akatsuki are advancing towards the last of the Jinchuuriki, and Konoha will do everything in its power to protect Naruto. In the case something happens in the future, I need to know that you can protect yourself. And since Chakra transfer is a two way connection, meaning that you can both donate and extract Chakra, I think it's best that you learn it."

Kohana asked in a worried voice, her eyes traveling to her father's note that lay propped open on the sofa, "Is it that bad?"

Kakashi's demeanor changed but he said calmly, "If anything happens, we will be ready."

He gave her a cheerful smile that Kohana returned a little less enthusiastically. She had completely forgotten about the Akatsuki. She was so focused on her training that she didn't realize the looming threat that was drawing closer. Her father and Kakashi were risking their lives to scavenge what little information they could about the illegal organization and here she was asking Kakashi to help her with something that would not only make her more conspicuous but potentially place Konoha in danger too. And plus, Kakashi was concerned for Naruto's safety. If anything, he should be spending his time training him, not her.

She backpedaled, and said unsurely, "I…I don't think it's a good idea then for you to focus on me. You'll be busy, and it's like Tsunade-sama said, my Genkai is supposed to be kept hidden. I'd just create more problems for you."

Kakashi smiled and ruffled her hair affectionately, "You worry too much. You're never a problem to me. I'll see you tomorrow evening, then?"

Kohana blushed faintly, her heart skipping a beat. She nodded quietly and watched him leave her apartment and enter his own. She felt a sudden sadness at his leave, and sighed as she readied herself for the night. Tomorrow evening couldn't come fast enough.