The Diamond Family
Chapter 4: A Dangerous Reunion
Perspectives: Snow, Itachi, and Kakuzu
Please leave a review. I was in rush to get this published, so there might be more errors than normal. Sorry, it took, so long to get this chapter out it's been a long week. If you have any questions or suggestions I would be happy to hear them.
Snow's Perspective
I returned to my room exhausted. My every muscle ached. First training with my students then training with Kameko. Her methods were statistically intense. She is a merciless teacher. Kameko refuses to take it easy on because now we are equals. Can't say her methods were ineffective. I've learned a great deal from her. I'd improved in using lightning jutsu. I showered before falling back into the cushiony bed. I hoped for dreams of my beloved.
Snow's Dream
Kakuzu's held me closely as against his powerful body. I breathed in his scent. He smelled lightly of earth, blood, and cinnamon. It was an odd, but comforting smell. He ran his fingers through my hair
"That feels nice", I said.
"Why do you so enjoy me doing this?" asked Kakuzu.
"When we are like this I know I'm always safe", I said.
He brought me into a deep kiss. His lips felt so right against mine. Tears welled in my eyes. I rested my head on his chest and listened to the sound of his hearts beating.
"What's wrong my treasure?" he asked.
My heart fluttered at his special name for me. I curled up against him and enjoyed his close presence. My fingers traced against his stitches.
"Why do you cry?" he asked.
"Please hold me. Never let me go", I said.
"Never", whispered Kakuzu.
He caressed my cheek and placed a soft kiss on my lips. He raised my chin. His eyes were so warm.
"I love you", said Kakuzu.
"I love you too, Kakuzu", I said.
I woke when Eiji joined me in bed. Such a wonderful dream. Why must he disturb me? He's perfectly capable of entering our bed without disturbing me. It was one in the morning. He normally returned at such a time.
"Why did you wake me?" I asked.
"It was an accident, Snow. It's been a long day", said Eiji.
"I don't believe you", I said.
"Believe what you wish my beautiful wife", said Eiji.
He scowled.
"I was calling for him in my sleep again", I said.
He nodded. That's the only reason he would ever wake me.
"I can't control what I say in my sleep", I said.
"I can't stand hearing his name", said Eiji.
I tried not anger. I settled back into the pillows and closed my eyes. I fell into a deep dreamless sleep. The next morning I met up with my students. I tried blocking out their complaints about the low ranking missions they were receiving. I understood their frustration, but they'll eventually get want they want. Eiji entrusted me with high ranking missions. I was always teamed with my sisters. They were my most trusted allies.
I glanced at my students. Ryuu's face was covered in scratches. He glared at the white fluffy returned to its owner's arms. It hissed at him. Ren giggled and Toshi smirked.
"Mr. Fluffy be nice to the young boy returned you to me", said the owner of the cat.
She left.
"I hate fucking cats", said Ryuu when the owner was out of range.
I flicked Ryuu on the forehead, which made him fall to the ground. Ren and Toshi started giggling.
"What the fuck was that for?" asked Ryuu as he got up from the ground.
I flicked him on the forehead again, which made him fall to the ground again. He rubbed his forehead and there was a red mark on his forehead. Ren and Toshi were laughing.
"You shouldn't speak in such a way, Ryuu", I said.
I do not want him to have a mouth like Hidan or Mari.
"But it's the truth", said Ryuu.
"It may be the truth, but it can be stated in a different fashion", said Toshi.
"He's correct, Ryuu", I said,
"Know it all!" he growled.
"That wasn't me being a know it all, nitwit. I was only stating the truth of your lack of manners", said Toshi.
"You can save what I know to be an oncoming fight for later. We must receive our next mission", I said as stepped between the two boys.
We walked into the assignment room. Eiji sat at the middle of the table look over requests. He wore his reading glasses, which showed some of the age hidden behind his youthful appearance. It reminded of my first days with Kakuzu. How I've grown since then.
"Listen here old man we are the strongest genin here we should get a harder mission", said Ryuu.
Eiji smirked.
"True, but you're the only genin here", he said.
"That's not what I meant!" growled Ryuu.
Eiji spared a glance from his work. He stared at Ryuu with such curiosity. The knucklehead knows how to draw attention to himself. He wouldn't drop the subject. He wasn't one to give up easily. The beginnings of a headache coming on.
"Maybe you're ready for something of more difficulty. A c-ranked perhaps", said Eiji.
He's actually considering it. My squad is more than ready for it. I have full confidence in their abilities. This would be the perfect opportunity for them. If they are granted permission.
"Why do you believe you're ready for such a task?" asked Eiji.
"Our sensei has trained us well. We are extremely strong", said Ryuu.
"Well indeed", said Toshi.
"I'll give you a low-level c-ranked mission. If you're harmed don't come crying to me", said Eiji.
His advisors seemed stunned at his decision. I'm confident in their talents. They're growing quickly.
"Thank you, grandpa", said Ren.
Eiji smiled. Ren has become part of the family and Eiji excepted her as his granddaughter. In truth, Eiji really isn't her grandpa, but I don't know what else she could call him.
"What will this mission be?" I asked.
"You will be escorting a group of merchants to the Hidden Leaf Village", said Eiji.
"Easy", said Ryuu.
"Ryuu",
"What it's the truth", he said.
"You shouldn't complain Ryuu. It's rare for a genin squad so soon after graduating to be given such an opportunity. You should be thankful", I said.
"Why?" asked Ryuu.
"Apologize",
"NO!" yelled Ryuu.
All eyes were on us.
"He's going to do this again", said Ren.
"Look like it. Such an idiot he is", said Toshi.
Ryuu was on my last nerve. I lack the patience for this today.
"Apologize!"
"NO!" yelled Ryuu.
"Maybe I'll tell your mother of your rude behavior", I said.
He went pale. Ryuu feared one person more than any other, his mother.
"You wouldn't", he pleaded.
"Are you willing to bet?" I asked.
"Fine, I'm fucking sorry", said Ryuu as he glanced over at Eiji.
I glared at him.
"Back down, Ryuu. She's giving you the glare", warned Ren.
"The glare?" asked Eiji.
"In simple terms, it's a specific glare unique to sensei. It roughly translates into you would do well not to anger me", said Toshi.
"How many times do I have to tell you not to use that kind of langue?" I asked.
Ryuu stuck his tongue out at me.
"You asked for this, boy", I said before I flicked his forehead.
He went flying across the room, slamming into a wall.
"Okay, I'm sorry Eiji and I'm sorry sensei for using bad langue", said Ryuu.
"Better, but still needs work", I said.
"I feel bad for your children", said Ryuu.
"Grampa, when are you and Minori going to have a baby?" asked Ren.
Eiji coughed on his tea. I blushed. My students and elders laughed our reactions. It was an innocent question, but Ren had no idea the significance of it.
"We in no rush to have children", said Eiji as he tried to regain his composure.
"Isn't that what couples do after they get married?" asked Ren.
"Technically, they don't have to, but it is the norm", said Toshi as he pushed up his glasses.
"Don't you want to have a baby with Minori?" asked Ren.
Eiji looked to me for an answer.
"Well Ren I want to enjoy my husband's company for some time longer", I said.
That satisfied Ren's curiosity. Sadly, that wasn't and end to the conversation.
"She does bring up a good question, when shall we expect a child from your union", asked one of the elders.
Both Eiji and I were growing annoyed with this conversation. This was a personal topic that didn't concern them in the least. I was uncomfortable speaking of it further. I played nervously with my fingers. A rare anger filled his eyes.
"We've already spoken of this subject. I refuse to allow it to go further!" yelled Eiji.
The room fell quiet. All eyes were focused on Eiji. It's rare for him to raise his voice.
"Why is this of such importance?" I asked.
"An heir is needed", answered the elder.
"I'm in no need of an heir", said Eiji.
"One more question before we close on this topic", said another elder.
Eiji glared at the elder who had spoken.
"Fine", he said.
"Have you even started the process of making a baby?" asked the elder.
"Don't you old fucking perverts have better things to do than pry into my husband's and my sex life", I yelled.
"They do have such matters to attend to", said Eiji.
"Probably, for the best considering your wife's lineage. We wouldn't history repeating", said the elder.
This again? What of my bloodline. Eiji's went tense.
"We won't speak of this again", he commanded in a low dangerous tone.
An uncomfortable silence fell over the room. It was a brought to an when Mari came charging into the room. Blood splatter covered her clothes and face. It did nothing to dull her smile.
"From what I heard a few nights ago they've started", said Mari.
My face went red. She heard that.
"You aren't one to hold back your pleasure are you, sis", said Mari.
My face went a shade darker.
"I could have gone my whole life without knowing that", said Ryuu.
"I as well", said Toshi.
"Me too", said Ren.
"What between the two them is only natural. You three won't be so disgusted by the idea when you reach our age. She was enjoying herself that's all", said Mari.
Even Eiji was blushing. Mari laughed enjoying the awkwardness she'd created.
"You're dismissed, Mari. Return tomorrow for your next mission", said Eiji.
She left with a smug smile. I fanned my face in an attempt to cool my blush. Eiji walked me out of the office.
"You three go on ahead. Your sensei will be with you in a few moments", said Eiji.
They ran off.
"I apologize for that Minori. I know how uncomfortable that must have been for you", said Eiji.
"An understatement", I said.
"I know", said Eiji.
He wrapped his arms around me.
"Why was my lineage a concern to them?" I asked
"It's of no importance. You should be on your way", said Eiji.
"Well, there must be something", I said.
"It's nothing for you to concern yourself with Snow", said Eiji.
He's dodging. What is he hiding?
"Sensei come on!" shouted Ryuu.
"Looks like I should be going", I said.
He let go of me. I got a few steps away when Eiji grabbed my hand and pulled me into a passionate kiss. He caught me off guard and used that chance to push his tongue into my mouth. I found myself losing into the kiss. His hands moved down my body to my butt. He suddenly pulled away from me.
"Come back soon", whispered Eiji in my ear.
Eiji is sometimes a pain in my ass, but I will give this he's one hell of a kisser.
"Get a room", said Ryuu.
"You wouldn't want that my child. Then you wouldn't have the mission you so crave", said Eiji.
"I must take my leave", I said.
"Be careful my love. I would hate to see you harmed", said Eiji.
"I will try", I said.
"Why does he tell you to be careful on such a simple mission?" asked Ryuu.
"Idiot, you should never underestimate a mission no matter how simple it may be", said Toshi.
"Toshi, don't mock your teammate, but you're correct. Underestimating even the most simple of missions could lead to tragedy", I said.
"Yes, sensei", said Toshi.
Their constant bickering reminded me slightly of the fights between Hidan and Kakuzu. On a lesser level of course.
"I thought it was cute it show how much grampa cares about sensei", Ren.
I smiled at Ren. She's such a sweet little girl. There wasn't a doubt in my mind that she'd grow to be a romantic. The bickering between Ryuu and Toshi continued.
"If you don't stop this bickering I'll give this mission to another squad. I'm sure Kameko's squad would enjoy this. Do you understand?" I said.
"Yes, sensei", said the two of them.
That shut them up for all of five minutes. We met the merchants at the entrance of the village. It was a group of twelve not including my squad and I. It would be week's journey may be more considering there was elderly in the group.
"They sent children to protect us how pathetic", said a tall slender woman whose hair was tied up in a tight bun.
"I assure you're in capable hands", I said.
The woman looked familiar, but couldn't place her face.
"Be kind to these people are protecting us. You joined my group and that means you will follow my rules, which means you will be civil to these people, Rose", said an old lady who seemed to be the leader of the group.
A few days into the mission our journey went smoothly without. My students tensed in preparation for a fight. A group of bandits surrounded us.
"May we sensei?" asked Toshi.
"Please", begged Ren.
Even Ryuu first look to me for permission.
"Go ahead", I said.
The bandits were no challenge for my students. Only if they need my help will I step in. It took less than five minutes for my students to defeat them. The bandits went running.
"Amazing young man. I've never seen a person breath out a fireball before", said the old lady.
Ryuu blushed.
"Thank you Miss", said Ryuu.
"You're a good boy calling me miss. You can call me, Momo. Who taught you such great manners?" asked the old woman.
"Sensei", said Ryuu as he pointed to me.
"It was a challenge I promise you", I said.
"You were able to train such a wild boy?" asked Momo.
"All children need to bloom is structure and someone to believe in them", I said.
"True", said Momo.
Ryuu has improved so much since I first took him as my student.
Snow's Flashback
I waited for Ryuu outside his home. It was a small plaster cottage. Outside his father worked the forge. His name is Foji. He was the best blacksmith in the village. He waved me over.
"Thank you for taking my son under your care", he said.
"It was my pleasure. He's a great student. A little rough around the edges, but that's part of what makes him great", I said.
Under my teachings he's gained control over is ability. He hasn't had a single accident with his ability. There's still more progress to be done. Teaching him meditation was a lesson in patience for the both of us. An orange hair woman pushed Ryuu out of the house.
"You will not keep your sensei waiting", she said.
"Hey, Sensei", he said.
"I'm so sorry he's late, Lady Minori", she said.
"It's fine. Actually, he right on time. I assume you being on time is your mother's doing, Ryuu", I said.
"Kinda", said Ryuu.
His mother angrily tapped her foot against the floor.
"Yes, she got me up", he said.
Ryuu seemed confused.
"Where are the others?" he asked.
"Today you're my only student", I said.
He smiled.
"Don't look so happy. That means all my focus will be on you", I said.
He frowned. We stopped at a lake.
"Why are we here?" I asked.
"To teach you a new jutsu", I said.
His smile grew.
"Is it really powerful in destructive?" asked Ryuu.
"Yes, but I think you're responsible enough to handle such a jutsu. If not I'd be greatly disappointed", I said.
His expression took on one of more seriousness.
"What is called?" he asked.
"Fireball jutsu. You already have a basic understanding of it", I said.
"Show me", said Ryuu.
I did the hand signs and blew out a giant fireball. I taught him the hand signs.
"Show me the signs again", I said.
He did as told.
"Now try", I said.
A small fireball left his mouth.
"This time knead the chakra within you before releasing the flame", I said.
This time a large fireball left his mouth.
"I did it", he said.
"Don't sound so stunned", I said.
He smiled so brightly at him.
"I want you to come to this lake once a day and perform this jutsu. Don't stick one size or form. This jutsu is extremely flexible. A large wild flame is easy a controlled blaze proves more difficult", I said.
"Like the wild flame inside me", said Ryuu.
"Yes", I said before poking him on the forehead.
"Ouch",
He rubbed his forehead.
"Why must you always do that?" asked Ryuu.
"My sensei did the same to me", I said.
"Did he also flick you on the forehead?" asked Ryuu.
"No, that's something special only for you", I said.
I returned to reality. Our travels were peaceful. We close to being there.
"Let's set up camp here. You three help set up tents. I'll keep watch", I said.
"Why do you get the easy job?" asked Ryuu.
"I'm your sensei. I've already mastered such tasks", I said.
They helped the merchants with their tents. The Leaf may be only a few miles away, but the elderly needed rest. Ryuu made a fire. Everyone seemed relaxed. Eventually, my students fell asleep. I didn't allow my mind to wonder. No matter how tempting it is. Ren tapped my shoulder.
"Sensei, you should rest it's my turn to take watch", said Ren.
I was about to get up when Ren grabbed my shoulder.
"Sensei, may I ask you a question?" asked Ren.
I nodded.
"Who's Kakuzu?" asked Ren.
My shock must have been apparent because her eyes went wide. How much does she know? I never speak of him.
"He was your protector before Eiji. You love him dearly", said Ren.
"How do you know?" I asked.
"You call for him in your sleep sometimes. By the tone of your voice, it wasn't a nightmare. It's the same way I call for mommy. He's your protector", said Ren.
"Ren, you can't mention this to anyone", I said.
"Why?" asked Ren.
"I'm a married. Relationships of the past are best left there", I said.
"You wouldn't look and sound so sad if that were true", said Ren.
I smirked.
"You're a clever girl, Ren", I said.
"Why aren't you with him?" she asked.
"That's a painful story which I rather not tell", I said.
"If you ever need to speak to anyone sensei. I will always listen and you know I won't tell", said Ren.
"You are not yet old enough to hear my stories", I said.
"But", she said.
"Another time", I said.
I couldn't sleep. Hearing his name brings me such pain. Is he in such pain? We woke early in the morning and started our travels again. I tensed when two hidden chakras heading our way. My students didn't notice. This was a powerful threat.
"Stay here", I said.
They could tell by the tone of my voice that didn't have a choice in staying. I went ahead.
Itachi's Perspective
Kisame and I were assigned a mission to capture a high priced target. Kakuzu rejected the offer. It was too close to the Hidden Diamond Village. Sending him would on such a mission would be an unfair temptation. Our information stated that she would be leaving the village. The destination was the Leaf. I tensed when I spotted three genin standing guard over them. Where's their sensei? This makes things more difficult.
"Who are you?" asked the old lady.
"That's none of your concern. We only need one of you someone named, Eri. If you give us her the rest of you can leave unharmed", I said.
"None of us here go by that name", said the old lady.
"There's an easier way to get an answer, Itachi", said Kisame as he drew Samehada.
I won't allow him to endanger innocent children unless forced. He approached the old woman. A little pink haired girl took a protective stance in front of her. There was no fear in her crimson eyes.
"Leave her be", said the girl.
"You're a brave little thing. You remind me of a friend", Kisame said.
The girl has the same flare as Snow. Kisame kneeled down so he was at eye level with the child.
"Aren't you afraid of me?" asked Kisame.
He smiled showing off his sharp teeth to the little girl. I wanted to know the girl's answer. Anyone else in her position would be terrified right now.
"I'm not afraid of you. You're pretty looking", said the girl.
Everyone, there was surprised at her answer.
"If you hurt this lady I will hurt you no matter how pretty looking you are", said the little girl.
"You're a brave little girl", said Kisame.
"I may be small and young that doesn't make me any less of a shinobi", she said.
Very much like Snow.
"What's your name little one?" asked Kisame.
"Ren", she answered.
"A water lily still in growth", said Kisame.
It was odd for Kisame to take such interest in a child.
"Who are you?" asked the redheaded boy.
He glared at Kisame with a fierce rage. So young yet he holds such gaze.
"Ryuu, he's Kisame Hoshigaki the Monster of the Mist wanted in every nation. The man next Itachi Uchiha", said a browned haired boy.
"How the hell do you know that?" asked Ryuu.
"I'm curious about that too", I said.
"A photographic memory comes great use", said the boy.
The red-headed boy looked like he was going to attack.
"Don't, you idiot", said the boy's teammate.
"Why not, Toshi?" asked Ryuu.
"They are far beyond our level. They'd prove difficult for even the most elite of our village's jonin. Sensei is the only one who stands a chance against them. Even then the odds are against her. She's outnumbered", said Toshi.
"But she isn't here", said Ren.
"Why do you two have to be so negative?" asked Ryuu.
"It's the truth", said Ren.
"When did you start taking his side, Ren?" asked Ryuu.
"He's right", she said.
"Let's make a deal kiddies", said Kisame.
"What's your offer?" asked Toshi.
"If the three of you beat one of us we will let you live. I'll even let you pick", said Kisame.
"Make your choice", I said.
They'll be knocked unconscious. I will not have the blood of children on my hands.
"You", said Ryuu.
"You're an idiot, Ryuu", said Ren.
"Fireball jutsu", said Ryuu.
The boy blew out a good-sized fireball. It was a rather common jutsu, but it could be related to Snow. I grabbed the boy by the throat. The boy shut his eyes.
"Who taught you that?" I asked.
"Why do you care?" asked Ryuu.
"SENSEI!" screamed the girl.
Snow's Perspective
Ren screamed for me. I should have sensed the danger sooner! I should have never left them. If they're injured or worse it will be my fault. A man held Ryuu by the throat. My skin changed to diamond. The attacker jumped in time.
"Don't you dare touch my students!" I growled.
"Sensei, be careful he has Sharingan eyes", said Toshi.
Sharingan? There's only one person I know with those eyes, Itachi. His expression only carried slight shock at my appearance.
"Isn't this a happy coincidence", said Kisame.
He smiled. This isn't a happy moment. This dangerous to both my students and I. There's no way they'll understand how difficult this situation is.
"Snow", said Itachi.
I fought the urge to give such reaction.
"I'm not the one you speak of. My name is Lady Minori", I said.
"Your place isn't here", said Itachi.
"I'm a jonin of the Hidden Diamond my place is with my students", I said.
"Sensei, they speak as if you know them", said Toshi.
"The only knowledge I have of them are gathered from bingo books", I said.
This isn't my escape only a temptation. There is too much innocence here. I'm not sure for there reason here.
"Toshi, Ryuu, Ren take the merchants back to the village", I said.
"We can't allow that", said Kisame.
"Go", I said.
Merchants started leaving, but my students refused to leave. Kisame charged at them. I ran in front of him, blocking Samehada with my diamond skin. The blade could steal my chakra.
"Leave!"
"We can't leave you behind", said Ren.
My arms shook under the force of his blade.
"As your sensei, I command you to retreat", I ordered.
"What are we going to tell, Eiji?" asked Ren.
"Just go", I said.
"No, we won't!" yelled Toshi.
"You should listen to your sensei", said Kisame.
"Does our deal still stand? If she defeats you we are free to go", said Toshi.
"Yes", said Itachi.
Our battle started. My iris turned to diamond reflecting some the direct effects of his Sharingan. This isn't a simple sparring match, but an actual battle. We tested each others' skills.
"You've grown since our last encounter", said Itachi.
Taijutsu will get me nowhere. Ninjutsu. I didn't waste my energy on dodging his attacks. The heat of his flames deflected harmlessly off my skin. I have to be careful. Even if I don't meet his gaze there's a chance I can be caught in his genjutsu.
"Itachi, let me step in", said Kisame.
Itachi nodded before stepping back. Kisame has the advantage in this dual. His strength is water nature.
"You will return with us", he said as he cracked his neck.
Speed and agility are my only advantages in this battle. It has to be enough. I missed his strikes by only centimeters. Water flooded our surroundings.
"I have never felt chakra like this before", said Ren.
"Shit", I said.
If he gets me underwater this battle if over. I must stay on solid ground. Them taking me will put them in danger. Kisame struck at my weakness. Spheres of engulfed my students. How long can they hold their breath? Ren was struggling the most.
"Your fight is with me. They are only children", I said.
"Weakness is weakness. You left it unguarded", said Kisame.
"Ten diamond dragons",
"Where are your dragons?" asked Kisame.
They erupted from the water. His water clones disappeared. My students were freed. They were gasping for breath. The dragons continued their attack on Kisame. I need an advantage
"Impressive trick, but how much longer can you keep this up?" asked Kisame.
They were a massive drain on my chakra. Living diamond is much difficult and tiring. I've only just started to understand it. The water rippled violently. Diamond blades exploded from the earth. Making the surroundings more to my advantage. I can only hide for so long.
"Where are you?" asked Kisame as walked through the forest trying to find me.
Five of my creatures zoomed toward him. They were swiftly struck down by Samehada. my blades further enclosed around us. I need to heat things up. White flames poured from my mouth. The surrounding water sizzled angrily as it evaporated into steam. The air became impossibly hot. How managed to breathe it I didn't know. I made my appearance known.
"Can't take the heat?" I asked.
Extreme temperature has little effect on people of my bloodline. Kisame's breathing grew heavy. His skin shone with sweat and his attacks slowed. All I have to do is outlast him. After what seemed like hours of battle Kisame gave in and collapsed. I summoned Pearl. My blades returned to earth.
"Ryuu, Ren, Toshi come here", I said.
"What is it sensei?" asked Toshi.
"It's time to go", I said.
A sparkling white mist engulfed us. We returned to main gates of the Hidden Diamond Village.
"Minori, please well", said Eiji.
His voice was heavy with concern. The last thing I felt before losing consciousness was Eiji lifting me off the ground.
Itachi's Perspective
Snow has become a force to be reckoned with. She hasn't wasted her time with her family. Snow has grown more patient. She understood she couldn't handle Kisame in head to head battle. I helped him to his feet.
"She's wasn't like that before", said Kisame.
"She's grown exponentially. Conserve your energy Kisame", I said.
A white crow perched on my shoulder. It was Snow's summon. I believe her name is Pearl. She's some sort of messenger. We returned to the hideout. I set him down in one the infirmary's bed.
"What happened?" asked Pain.
Sasori took Kisame to the infirmary.
"We tracked our target, but there was an unexpected issue", I said.
"Issue, we needed that income!" yelled Kakuzu.
"Snow was traveling among them", I said.
Surprise overtook his normally stern expression.
"Why? Why didn't she run?" asked Kakuzu.
"She wasn't alone. There was a squad of genin. She was their sensei", I said.
"Has she chosen to stay there?" asked Pain.
"No, I believe there was a reason she chose to act the way she did", I said.
"Even with her advancement in growth. I doubt her remotely capable of being able to beat the both of you", said Pain.
"Our aim wasn't to kill her. And we did not know the true circumstance of the interaction. She did leave behind a clue", I said.
I took Pearl from my cloak's pocket. She swiftly to Kakuzu.
Kakuzu's Perspective
The full extent of the battle between Kisame and Snow was unknown to me.
"Pearl",
The crow gazed at me with its mismatched eyes. She sat and when she stood two eggs were revealed. Pearl cracked them with her sharp beak. Two tightly fold message lay in the broken shells. One was addressed to me and the other was for the rest of us. It explained her reasoning. I returned to my room and settled on my bed. Along with the letter was a photo of Snow. In it, she sat in a cherry tree. She was dressed in pink. I flipped over the photo. The color didn't fit her. She'd written on the back of it.
A photo isn't nearly enough, but it's all I have to offer. I miss you. My heart will always be yours.
I unfolded the letter and read:
I miss you more every day. I don't know how long I'll be trapped here, but I try every day to find a way to return to you.
After such a battle she would be hospitalized. She's injured. I must see her. If I leave now I should reach the village by nightfall. I walked quietly through the alleys of the Hidden Diamond Village, but they've earned the right. The wealth was obvious even in the poorest parts. Hidden behind its beauty was a vengeful enemy who spared no mercy on those who cause them harm. I'd arrived too early. I'll have to wait to see her.
Snow's Perspective
Everyone in the village came to visit me. Eiji visited me once. The man was wise enough to know I didn't wish to see him. Flowers, toys, and cards packed my hospital room.
A nurse came into the room and asked: "How are you feeling Lady Minori?"
"Sore and tired, but otherwise fine", I said.
"Can I get you anything?" asked the nurse.
"Can you open the window? The fresh air would be nice" I asked.
"Sure", said the nurse.
The one I craved most I couldn't see. Sleep didn't come to me. It wasn't the pain that kept me up. Time past slowly. I closed my eyes. I tensed as someone crept through my window. I need them closer if I'm going to attack. They sat on my bed.
"Open your eyes",
That voice! Is this a dream? Please, don't let it be. I tried hugging him, but my restraints stopped me.
"This isn't a dream my treasure", he whispered.
"Please, let me see you", I begged.
He took off his mask and hood. His long brown hair came falling over his shoulders. Kakuzu glanced nervously at the door. He's taking a great risk by coming here.
"You must be quiet, Snow", he warned.
"I don't they all think I'm high on painkillers. Now untie me", I said.
He quickly untied me. I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him. His tongue explored my mouth. He kissed me like this would be his last chance to. I want more of him. I want him to fuck me until I faint, but that wasn't a possibility, not here. We slowly separated. I place a brief kiss on his lips.
"What's on your mind?" he asked.
"Do you really want to know?" I asked.
"Yes", said Kakuzu.
"Promise me you won't laugh at me", I said.
He nodded.
"I was thinking about how I want you to fuck me until I faint and I would be so sore the next morning that I would have a hard time walking", I said a blushed formed across my cheeks.
He smiled at the idea I planted in his head.
"As much as I would love to take you up on your offer, Snow we both know that we can't. As soon as you're out of this place I will", said Kakuzu.
I want more. I pulled him into another kiss. His big hands moved up my waist. I whimpered in pain when his hand touched one of my giant purple bruises. He tried pulling away.
"Pull away and I will kick your ass!" I growled.
"I don't want to hurt you, Snow", said Kakuzu.
"Kakuzu, I'm not a delicate flower I can handle a little pain. I won't let it stop me from being with the man I love", I said.
"I missed you", said Kakuzu.
"I missed you as well", I said.
I cuddled close to him and rested my head on his chest, listening to his hearts beating.
"Hold me", I said.
He pulled me close. It feels so good being in his arms. Finally, I'm in the safety in his arms once again.
"Are you sure this isn't a dream?" I asked.
"Yes", he said.
"Are you sure?" I asked.
"Snow, I promise this isn't a dream", said Kakuzu.
His fingers ran through my hair.
"Kakuzu, I know it's asking a lot, but can you stay until I fall asleep?" I asked.
"I will stay until sunrise. I won't be able to return, Snow", said Kakuzu.
"I wish it wasn't that way", I said.
"I as well", said Kakuzu.
"I know", I said.
"I got you something", said Kakuzu.
"What?" I asked.
"Give me your locket", said Kakuzu.
I raised my hair and he took off my necklace. He placed a photo in the empty frame. Kakuzu returned it to me. The photo was of me and him. I was asleep I used his chest as a pillow.
"Where did you get this?" I asked.
"Tatsuo took it while we weren't looking. You said you wanted a picture of me in your locket", said Kakuzu.
"Thank you", I said.
"You need rest, Snow", said Kakuzu.
"I don't want to rest. The faster I fall asleep the sooner you'll leave", I said.
"Snow, before I go can you show me the tracker?" asked Kakuzu.
I move the blankets and showed him the diamond bands around my wrists.
"What is your plan of escape?" asked Kakuzu.
"You have to trust that I have one", I said.
Soon I drifted to sleep. When I woke, Kakuzu was gone. It was a wonderful night I won't soon forget.