V 5 ch 3
OtoMori Village part 2
Idai yawned as they started out for OtoMori the following morning. He rubbed his eyes sleepily. They had walked pretty far the previous day and it had worn them all out. His body ached. Daiya was walking slower than the rest of the kids. Idai stopped until his friend had managed to catch up. He looked at him. "Are you okay," he asked softly.
Daiya shook his head slowly. "I feel strange." His body hurt all over. He felt as if he couldn't focus. He watched Idai move closer to him. Idai brought his hand around as if he was hugging him from behind – only to put his hand over Daiya's forehead. "Idai," he said softly. The world was spinning. He didn't feel well at all.
Idai caught Daiya as his legs buckled. "Sensei," he called to get one of their attentions. "Daiya?" He shook his shoulder.
Saori turned around. She tugged for Ryu to stop. He looked in the same direction. Shikamaru ran past them to Idai. "Is he alright?"
Ryu's heart practically stopped. Idai was holding Daiya on the ground. Please don't let that be what I think it is. He felt Saori wrap her arms around him. Ryu felt numb as he watched Shikamaru check Daiya. Soon Sasuke was with them. Everyone had stopped to wonder what was going on. They had departed from camp two hours ago. Ryu looked around at the forest. "We're not near a village that could aid him," he said worriedly.
"Dad, what's wrong? Is he okay," Saori asked as her father approached them. She watched Sasuke pick Daiya up. He had to carry the boy in his arms.
"We think he's having an allergic reaction to his medication. The most important thing right now is to make sure his throat doesn't close. Don't worry. He has Sasuke and me keeping an eye on him. We should reach our destination this afternoon." Shikamaru gestured to the forest. "This whole area is part of OtoMori. When we get closer to the village, you guys will hear all sorts of sounds. It's the reason for the name. Alright, we're off again."
Yanagi put her arm around Takeru to comfort him. His eyes were full of sorrow. His view was directed at his brother. Even Onari was keeping her gaze on him. She was walking with Eiyu. Eiyu reached for her hand and held onto it. Yanagi wondered if he liked Onari. He sure was taking his position rather seriously about being her protector.
Hire also looked at Takeru. "It's alright, Uchiha. Don't doubt Sasuke sensei or Shikamaru sensei. They are both very intelligent and have lots of training experience with students. Daiya's not the first to have a medical ailment."
Takeru looked at Hire. "Who else has had complications like he has?" He watched her nonchalantly point to Ryu. "Ryu? When?"
"Ryu has asthma. He's had to learn to push himself and learn how to handle it. Your father is had on us because an enemy is going to be. Ryu's passed out before when he first started training with Sasuke. Your father has had to aid him in the past," Hire said.
"How much do you know about Ryu," Takeru asked.
"How much do you want to know," Hire asked him in return. She watched him glance at Ryu then back at her. "I don't mind questions if they are the right ones. I cannot answer personal ones simply because I don't have the knowledge. That girl is the only one who sees his true self," she said nodding to Saori. Takeru started to ask her mild questions about Ryu.
The children walked for hours hardly talking. Whether they were doing it out of respect or concern, no one knew. There was only mild conversations occurring until Kiba, Areku, and Idai stopped. Their hearing was intensified compared to the others around them. "Shh," Areku said. Everyone halted around him. He moved his head, listening. "I hear faint chiming sounds."
"We must be getting close," Shikamaru said. "The chimes are tired to all of the branches of the trees surrounding the village." He started to walk again.
Sasuke rubbed his hand on Daiya's head. "Daiya." The boy moved a little. "Daiya, it's time to wake up." Sasuke started to shake his shoulder gently. He could feel Ryu watching him. Daiya stirred slightly, but his eyes remained closed. "Daiya, come on, son, look at me," he said softly. Was it possible the medication was still in his system?
"Sasuke, how long does his medicine last? It can't still be active, can it? There has to be something to counter it," Ryu said. He was worried.
"It's not wise to give Daiya anything, Ryu. It could react badly with what's in his body," Lee said. "We have to find someone who can help him in the village."
Ryu swallowed. "How far is the village from here?" Saori looked up at him in alarm. He was making a serious decision.
"The village is still a few hours away," Kiba said. He noticed Ryu was deciding on something. "Ryu, leaving the group is not wise."
Ryu looked at Kiba, then to Sasuke. "I'm the leader of my team. He's my responsibility. I'll take him to the village. They need the four of you," he said gesturing to the others around him. "You have to let me take him, Sasuke. I'm the oldest."
"Ryu-," Sasuke started out to say. He looked at Daiya. His eyes left the boy in his arms to drift to his son watching him. Takeru was wide eyed.
"Sasuke," Ryu shouted in alarm. "Let me take him!" He felt a panic strike him.
Saori's heart was beating wildly. They were all inexperienced and vulnerable by themselves. She grabbed onto him hard. "Ryu, there might be an enemy out there. We are safe with our group."
"Daiya is my responsibility," he told her softly. "I have to make sure he gets help. My team can't survive without me. Please understand." Ryu walked past her. He looked at his trainer and opened his arms.
Sasuke handed Daiya over to Ryu. "Run as fast as you can, Ryu. You're on your own. If you come across an enemy, we won't be there to help you," he said seriously as he made him aware of the situation.
"No, but we will be," Eiyu said walking forth with Gin and Idai. "We are family. We don't let one of our own take on a burden alone. We will make sure you get there."
The trainers were speechless for a moment. Each one of the team leaders was stepping forth to help Ryu. The children before them showed a new sense of responsibility. "You three must keep up with Ryu. He's fast on his feet, as many of you noticed last night. Do not hesitate to defend him against an opponent. Keep your eyes open, ears listening, and guard up," Kiba said. "Do not freeze," he said directing the last part at Idai. They turned around and were off.
Saori put her hand over her mouth. Ryu was gone. Oh, please make it. She looked around her. Yanagi was being shielded by her father. Takeru was also being comforted by Sasuke. Kandai was staring at the ground. Hire had her hand on his shoulder. Saori looked around the group several times. Her eyes darted around, searching. She gasped. "Sensei, where is Onari?"
Onari ran after the group that was escorting her brother to the village. Her eyes darted around searching the area. It wasn't the fact that she didn't trust them to take him. Onari was protective of Daiya. She was the same with Takeru, although, he wasn't aware of it. She was keeping a fair distance behind them. If someone were to attack the group, she'd have to assist them. Onari's training was going to come into play.
Idai ran on the left of Ryu. Eiyu was in front so that he could use his Byakugan to search ahead for foes. Gin was to his right. It wasn't easy keeping pace with the older boy. Ryu was alarmed and Idai suspected his body was full of adrenaline. They were trying their best to get medical aid for his best friend. Idai glanced at him. Daiya had no idea where he was, or what was occurring. Idai was really worried. He couldn't help it. Daiya had been through a lot in the past month.
"We need to get off of the main road, Ryu. There are a lot of travelers coming this way," Eiyu said. "It would be wiser to stick to the trees."
Ryu adjusted his hold on Daiya. "Alright, we change course. We're traveling through the trees, you guys." He ran up the side of a tree, hopped onto a branch and leapt off. The kids were right with him.
Onari stopped. She felt she wasn't going the right way. Had they decided to go another way? It wasn't easy to lose her. Onari formed hand seals and closed her eyes. Her form shot above the trees. From her aerial perspective, she could see for miles around in a 360 degree area. Onari's eyes shifted searching the road for the quarry. There were only strangers approaching. A flash of metal caught her attention off to the right. She was instantly drawn to the light reflecting off of one of Idai's swords. Onari knew where they were.
Her form shot back down into her body. She opened her eyes coming out of her dreamy state. They had taken to the trees to avoid the people on the road. Onari didn't blame them. She climbed into the tree and started to follow them. "Ryu fast turkey," she said smiling.
"Where could she have gone? Is it normal for her to take off on her own like this?" Rock Lee had scouted the area with Kiba. There was no sign of Onari. Her scent was not around them. If they had lost her, it was going to prove a problem.
"I can't believe she took off like this," Shikamaru said. He flicked his cigarette. "This is causing stress and it's supposed to be our vacation. So much for relaxing."
Takeru was trying to think like Onari. She is aware Daiya's sick. I don't think Onari would have given up easily on letting the others take care of the matter. He furrowed his brows. Onari's a fighter in more than one way. She does defy the adults like Daiya if she knows something they don't. He adjusted his back pack. Takeru tilted his head. He had it. He turned his head to look at his father. "Dad, Onari followed Ryu and the others to the village!"
"How do you know this?" Sasuke watched Takeru scratch his head. "No one saw her leave, Takeru."
"No, but Onari doesn't follow orders like Daiya. She's overprotective of him. It would make sense for her to have gone after them to protect them. Her skills are advancing. Even Eiyu said so."
"I understand your reasoning, but we can't know for sure where she is. It would seem we were easily distracted by Ryu and his concern for your brother. She was paired with Eiyu, right? Maybe she sought the need to follow him because he swore to look after her," Areku said.
"I don't know, Areku. Onari is very observant. She watched everyone constantly – that's why she's so quiet. When I've visited Takeru, Onari is always on the move learning. If someone goes near Daiya, she's close by, or watching them like a hawk," Saori said. "I can understand why she is like that. They're both orphans from the same country. I don't believe I'd put it past her not to protect him to some extent."
"Let's hope you guys are right in your train of thought," Shikamaru said. "If we lose her, it's going to be one hell of a search to locate her." He really hoped they were right.
"We have to rest," Ryu said. He touched down on a branch. He was breathing hard. The area around them was quiet. They could still see the road below.
"Ryu, I think we're being followed," Gin said as she pointed behind them. "The trees said we've been sought after for some time. Do you think one of our trainers is behind us?"
Eiyu turned around. "They wouldn't have left the others. We're on our own. Let's see who is daring to get this close." He closed his eyes for a moment then reopened them. Byakugan! Eiyu's body tensed as his eyes focused on the direction they had just come from. His vision zoomed ahead. He could see a figure leaping from each branch. Eiyu gritted his teeth. "I'm going to hurt her!"
Gin looked at him in shock. "Eiyu, who do you see?" She watched him close his eyes in frustration. "Eiyu?"
"Onari is following us! Why didn't she stay with the group," Eiyu said angrily. He punched the tree.
Idai looked behind them. Was she following them because of Daiya? He leapt off to go after her.
Gin watched Idai leave. "Where is he going?" Ryu was standing up again. Eiyu had his arms crossed, thoroughly annoyed with the situation. They waited until Idai came back with Onari.
"You're in a lot of trouble, Onari! You made us think you were an enemy! You're supposed to be with the trainers," Eiyu shouted at her.
"Daiya Onari brother. Onari protect brother, Eiyu! No different Eiyu with Kandai," Onari said with a stern voice. She met his gaze and held it. "Onari fight Eiyu over Daiya!"
"Nobody's fighting anybody. My concern is to get him help! Onari, keep up," Ryu said as he started to leap off. His body jerked as he felt someone grab him. "Onari, we have to get moving!"
"Akaihi faster. Daiya sick boy, Ryu. Village too far. Ryu tired. Ryu sick," she said. Onari watched him stare at her.
"What the heck is Akaihi," Ryu asked.
"It's her bird," Idai said. "I've seen it before. I don't see how it can help us, Onari. It's small." He watched her roll up her sleeves. Onari's arms were covered in bandages. She was unraveling them.
Gin watched Onari curiously. "What is she doing?" Onari's arms were covered in tattoos containing symbols and colors. She had never seen such a thing in her life.
"She's attempting a summoning jutsu," Idai said answering her. Onari bit both of her thumbs, smeared the blood on her arms, and started to form hand seals quickly. He watched her press the palms of her hands to the branch.
"Summoning jutsu! Akaihi!" Onari kept her hands still as patterns started to form around her in a circle of light. The trees around them started to crack. The ground below gave way and several of the trees fell over. Everyone was on guard as a large hole appeared. Light started to flicker in the darkness of the hole along with sounds of a beautiful melody. Then there was silence. The group looked at her wondering what was up. Suddenly, a large ball of feathery red came out of the hole. They all lowered their bodies, turned, and stared as the large phoenix touched down. It eyed them all with a serious gaze. "Akaihi dramatic. He take Daiya to village."
"That is the biggest chicken I've ever seen," Ryu said. He watched Onari approach it. She signaled for it to lower
its form. Daiya stirred a bit, grunting.
"He looks awfully pale," Gin said softly. "I don't think it's his medicine, Ryu. If he was allergic to it, he would have reacted this way the first time – not weeks after. He is having a reaction to something else."
Idai felt Daiya's forehead. "He doesn't have a fever. In fact, he's cold to the touch. What would make your body react this way?"
Eiyu stayed silent for a long time. He anger at Onari had finally subsided. "Poison," he said seriously. "He could have been poisoned by something he ate. We have to hurry."
"Eiyu's right. Everyone get on the… um… get on the… chicken," Ryu said with his eye twitching. The large bird made noises at him. The others hopped onto its back. He took a deep breath and leapt.
"Grasp these," Onari said to the feathers on its back. "Akaihi fly fast. Tell him where Ryu." The bird started to run. Ryu was on top of Daiya pressing his body to his to keep him from falling off. Eiyu and Idai had their arms hooked under Gin's as they held on for dear life. The bird took off flapping its wings. It soared into the air.
"The village is the other way. We're going towards the sea," Ryu said. He held on tighter as the bird started to change its course. He really had to press his body against Daiya and use a lot of his upper arm strength. "Sorry, Daiya," he said softly.
"How long will it take us to get there," Gin asked.
"At this rate, we should be there soon. We're covering a lot of area quite quickly." Idai looked out at the forest. They were passing the trees rapidly. It looked as if Akaihi was pushing them back with his feet. "Ryu, we should get there sooner than you think."
Onari crawled back slowly to look at her brother. Ryu was watching her as she kissed Daiya on the cheek. "Onari not in trouble no more?"
Ryu's eyes softened. Onari was an amazing girl. She had a few tricks up her sleeves. "No, I don't think you're in trouble. Not with us, at least. I don't know what the trainers are going to say about you leaving though. You didn't tell anyone what your plans were. Despite how he is, Sasuke sensei worries and so does Takeru."
"Sasuke mad at Onari," she said knowing it fully. She hid her face on the phoenix. He was probably going to send her back to the village, or make her scrub floors when they returned. She felt Ryu pet her head, smirking.
"Hey, I found out where the clinic is in this place. We're not far from it. It's two streets over," Shikamaru said. "I believe our little group got here quite a while ago. Several of the children that were hanging around were telling me about a pretty red bird they saw."
"Onari must have used Akaihi to get them here," Sasuke said. He thought for a moment. "Why don't you guys go ahead and find an inn. The kids need to rest. Shikamaru and I can retrieve them."
"We're going to find a place to let you guys rest," Lee said. "I'm not sure if this village has large rooms or not. We might have to pair three or four of you guys to a room. Three students will be placed with a trainer." Lee led the students down the road.
"Can we wait until the others come back before we decide," Masaru asked.
"I think that would be best," Lee said agreeing.
Onari watched Daiya lay back. His color was starting to return. The doctor had checked him out and given him something once he was awake. He was watching them all curiously. "Daiya feel better?"
Daiya nodded slowly. "Where… are we?" He looked at Ryu, Eiyu, Idai, and Gin. Why was he being surrounded?
"We're in OtoMori. We had to leave the others behind in order to get you help. We didn't know what was wrong with you. Shikamaru sensei thought you were having an allergic reaction to your medication. Ryu made the decision to leave the others on his own," Eiyu said as he jerked a thumb at the spiky haired boy.
Daiya's gaze drifted to Ryu. He was sitting with his back against the wall, embarrassed by Eiyu's praise. "Why did you risk the chance of someone attacking you? We were in a group for a reason."
Idai watched Ryu close his eyes. "Ryu was going to carry you alone, but we wouldn't allow it. We're supposed to look out for each other. We were his guards."
Gin shyly tugged on Idai and Eiyu's sleeves. "We need to go. Sensei might be here soon." She watched Idai's eyes meet hers and she blushed badly, averting her eyes. They left Ryu along with Onari and Daiya.
"Why did you abandon the group? They could have gotten hurt, Ryu. We're not as experienced as you," Daiya said not understanding.
Ryu turned his head as he opened his eyes. "You're my friend. When it comes to someone I care about, there is no hesitation, Daiya. I'll fight whoever gets in my way if they dare to interfere. My decision was made. We didn't know what was wrong. Regardless, I promised Sasuke I'd take care of you."
Onari leapt onto the bed. She looked at Daiya hard. "No be mad at Ryu. Ryu like Daiya. Daiya let Ryu?"
"Ryu, come here," Daiya said softly. Ryu just looked at him. "Please?" Ryu got up. He walked over slowly. Daiya reached up to ruffle his hair. "Thank you," he said rather embarrassed.
Onari turned her head as she saw Shikamaru say 'I found them'. She darted off of the bed and went under it. Onari saw two pairs of feet enter the room.
"Boy, we were sure worried about you. You seem to be doing better. What was wrong," Shikamaru asked.
"They made me throw up," Daiya said disgusted.
"The doctor said he had food poisoning. What did you guys purchase last night," Ryu asked. He watched Shikamaru scratch his head.
"We purchased a lot of things. There's no way of really knowing precisely what it was. As long as it's out of his system, he should be fine," Shikamaru said. He watched Sasuke check Daiya's forehead.
"Onari, hiding under the bed won't get you out of trouble," Sasuke said as he got Daiya to stand up. The girl poked her head out. "I know you used Akaihi to get them here. Don't let him be seen, Onari. You were lucky only the children saw it and not the adults. It could get us a lot of unwanted attention."
"Sasuke mad Onari?" She crawled out from under the bed. He gave her one of his stern 'You know better' expressions. She scurried and hid behind Ryu. Onari peeked out with her hands on Ryu's sides.
"Alright, well, I hate medical facilities. Let's go find the others," Shikamaru said. The truth was he needed to find a place that was selling cigarettes. He was on his last one.
"How are we going to figure out the room situation? Would the girls have to sleep in the same room with the boys? Is that allowed," Masaru asked as he eyed Yanagi, Hire, and Saori.
"Masaru, we slept in a huge room together the last time. Why are you being so biased," Saori asked. She crossed her arms. The boys were on one side of the entrance to the inn and the girls were on the other. They were staring each other down.
"We're going to draw names out of a hat, so to speak," Lee said. "That way, fate decides and there aren't any complaints. Here come the others now." He greeted the group as they approached. "I see you are doing well. I'm glad to hear it wasn't worse," he said to Daiya. The boy stiffened and averted his eyes.
"Sasuke, we're drawing for rooms. They don't have a huge area to accommodate us," Kiba said. "There's going to be one of us in each room with the kids." He wrote names down onto four columns. Kiba put the first group as himself; the second group was Sasuke; the third group was Lee; and last was Shikamaru. "We're going to do this a little differently than last time. Instead of names being chosen, you guys are going to draw numbers. Draw a piece of paper out of this bowl. Tell me the number and I'll write you down on a spot. Once the numbers are all taken, I'll tell you all where you guys will be sleeping. The numbers are not in order and are completely random. There are no take backs. You get what you get."
The children started to draw numbers. They looked at their pieces of papers then told Kiba what numbers they got. Kiba wrote them down on his paper. Once everyone was finished, he began to announce the sleeping arrangements for their stay at OtoMori.
"First group consists of Eiyu, Saori, Ryu, and Hire. You guys are with me. Second group is Yanagi, Kandai, and Daiya. You guys are with Sasuke. Third group is Gin, Idai, and Takeru. You guys are with Lee. Last group is Onari, Masaru, and Areku. You guys are with Shikamaru. The festival isn't until tomorrow night. You guys can rest and stay up as late as the trainers you're with. When he says 'lights out', he means it." Kiba waved at them. He signaled for his new group to follow him.
Hire looked around at the bare room. "It's not too bad. It's the size of our living room." She set her bag down. She couldn't believe her luck though. On a good note, she was with Ryu, but so was Saori. Hire glanced at the girl. Could she win Ryu over? Not likely. He loathed everything about her. Hire felt sad and hopeless; however, she had to make due with the situation.
Saori ran to the window. She opened it and looked out amongst the village. There were people putting decorations up everywhere. Saori watched a couple stream star lights all of the way down the street. She looked off into the distance. There was a pond in the middle of the town. "That must be where the Lotus Competition is going to be! Wow! They're putting up some sort of huge statue," she said.
"Statues of what?" Hire walked over. "It looks like a couple holding hands and in love or something," she said squinting. "Nice details. Whoever designed that has some talent," she said as Saori glanced at her. Hire caught her eye and back away. She felt out of place. Hire moved to sit against the wall pretending to go through the back pack.
Eiyu went through the closet checking the size of the futons. "There are two futons currently in here. Should I go downstairs and ask for another?" He looked at Kiba. He wasn't sure of the sleeping arrangements.
"No, we should be fine. They might not have another one available. This place is pretty packed. Heck, the entire town is filled with people from all over the area. Everyone's here for the festival. I can sleep on the floor. It doesn't bother me any. However, you can go see if she has any blankets and pillows available. If not, I can make do."
Eiyu nodded. He didn't like to sit in the room and stare at everyone. He liked to be useful. Eiyu walked out of the room to do as Kiba asked.
"Are we allowed to explore," Ryu asked. Kiba nodded. He ran forth and hoisted Saori into the air. "Let's go find a bakery!"
"What is it with you and bakeries? Ryu, if my father sees you picking me up like this, he'll be furious," she said looking down at him. He lifted his eyebrows at her. "I have an idea! Since everyone is tired and resting, let's buy treats for everyone!"
"Hey, that sounds like a great idea! I could help if you want," Kiba offered. They started to walk out of the room. Kiba stopped. "Are you coming, Hire?"
"No, thanks," she said softly. "I don't like baked stuff. I'll just guard the room." She felt really stupid for ever thinking Ryu would notice her. They left her alone. Hire didn't want to be in the same room with them anymore. I don't even have anyone to hang out with at the festival. She closed her eyes trying to block out her loneliness. Who needs them? I don't…
Masaru stared at Onari. The girl was eying him right back. He moved a little towards her. Onari shot back pressing herself against the wall. "You're awfully jumpy," he said. He raised his hand trying to touch her.
Areku popped him on the head with one of his books. "She's not a dog. She's cautious because you're unfamiliar to her. Leave her alone." He sat on the floor checking provisions. One could never be prepared enough.
Shikamaru came into the room annoyed. "We need to find another inn. This place doesn't allow smoking." His eyes shifted to Masaru trying to approach Onari. "I wouldn't do that. She hits hard and fast." Masaru stopped.
"None of the inns allow smoking. Besides, we can't go to another one anyway. They wouldn't accept this many of us." Areku watched Shikamaru open the window. He lit his cigarette and smoked it with his head sticking out.
"There's always a way," Shikamaru said smirking.
"Sensei, aren't you setting a bad example," Masaru said.
Shikamaru turned to look at the boy. "Have you learned nothing about speaking out of place?" He watched Masaru move away quickly.
Yanagi watched Daiya. He was staying near Sasuke. Kandai looked at her and shrugged. "Is he always so defensive?"
"It looks like it," Kandai said. He smiled at Daiya. "We're not going to hurt you. How come you're way over there?" He saw Daiya move closer to Sasuke to where half of his body was hidden from view. "Hmm?" Kandai blinked.
Sasuke looked down as he hung a line in the room for their clothes. "Daiya, Kandai and Yanagi aren't going to harm you. They're trying to befriend you. Will you let them?" Daiya only stared back.
"Who are you going to the Moon Festival with? Are you going to compete in any of the other competitions," Yanagi asked. Daiya stayed silent. "I'm not gong to bite," she said smiling. Yanagi stepped closer. Daiya tensed and moved farther back. She stopped in her tracks.
"Daiya, you're being rude," Sasuke said lowly. It was hard for the boy to accept others. It was no wonder it was difficult for Takeru to get past Daiya's walls. "You don't act like this with Idai or Takeru. Stop treating Yanagi as if she's going to attack you."
Daiya clung to Sasuke's vest. "Dad, I… don't know them," he said very softly. He looked at Kandai and Yanagi. They were watching him curiously. "Can't I go stay with Takeru?"
"No, you picked this group. It wouldn't be fair to the others if you changed sleeping arrangements. Why are you so afraid of them? They're the nicest kids out of everyone on the teams. You were put with them for a reason. Sometimes, fate intervenes, Daiya. Try to let them get to know you. It doesn't hurt to have friends," he told him.
"Daiya, we're going to watch the villagers put up decorations. You can go with us," Kandai said thoughtfully. Daiya was very hesitant.
"Why don't you go with them? It's not going to hurt." Sasuke moved away so he couldn't cling to him. "The idea of teams is to work together. Pairings on vacations let you get to know everybody's different personalities and styles. Go," he said pushing Daiya towards the other two kids. He dug his feet into the floor. Sasuke still pushed him.
Daiya gritted his teeth as he was stopped right in front of Kandai. The Hyuga boy smiled at him. He moved his hand towards him. Daiya jerked until he realized what Kandai was doing. He stared at the boy's hand.
"I promise I'm not going to snatch your arm off," Kandai said. "It's just a hand. See?" He moved his hand around so Daiya could see he didn't have anything. It took him a while to shake Kandai's hand. "Are you going to shake Yanagi's, too?"
Yanagi's eye widened. She blushed badly. Her eyes went to Daiya's hand. He half-lifted his hand at her, trying to make friends. She was the one who ended up freezing. Kandai shook her shoulder. Yanagi's heart raced as she moved her hand slowly towards his. She swallowed hard. As her hand touched his, her body tensed badly.
"Yanagi, you can let go of his hand now," Kandai said still smiling. He had to force their hands to part. Aw, I think she likes him. She sure is acting strangely.
"Nope, sorry! You can't have it back now," Idai said as he held the box away from Takeru. He laughed as he watched the boy try to snatch it out of his hand. Idai kept moving his arms around to avoid Takeru.
"Idai, give Takeru back his box. You will behave under my watch," Lee said. He put a futon down. "If you three need to rest, you may. I may do the same," he said as Gin shyly lay down.
Idai crawled onto the futon. He crossed his arms as he rested his chin on them. "What's in the box anyway?"
"Nothing," Takeru said as he trucked it into his shirt.
He watched Idai raised a brow. "It's nothing," he said again. Takeru closed his eyes thinking about the box and its contents.
"Here, Eiyu, hold this box," Saori said. She put the box of baked goods into his hands. Saori couldn't help herself when it came to a sale! The baker had to get rid of everything before it hardened. She looked at the donuts. "Should we get some for later," she said spotting the different varieties.
"Yes," Ryu said all a little too eagerly. "Nothing would please me more than to wake Sasuke sensei up on a sugar high!" He gave her the thumbs up and she laughed.
"I dare you to wake that man up. He'll meet you head on with a snake," Eiyu said seriously. He was watching Saori pick the different donuts out. He saw a blue frosted donut that caught his eye. "I want that one!"
Saori smiled as she picked it out for him. "Gee, Eiyu, why are you so interested in the blue frosting?" She had never seen him so happy over something before.
"Those are the blueberry ones. I like those the most. They have real fruit in the middle," he said as his mouth watered.
"Watch it, Hyuga. If you start to sway away from acting like an adult, we'll have to tell the entire Hyuga compound," Ryu teased. Eiyu blinked.
"Ryu, leave him alone. Eiyu's not under any pressure right now. He doesn't need you giving him any. Here, you can carry the donuts," Saori said as he gave him the box. "I wonder where we can find a tea shop."
"There's a small restaurant here that serves all sorts of teas. If you ask nicely, Mrs. Nagori might let you buy some from her. Just tell her Myaku sent you. After all, it's the least I can do for the kid that bought out my store," the baker said laughing.
"You're telling me. He doesn't have to carry it," Eiyu griped as Saori gave him two more boxes and Ryu three.
"That shouldn't worry you. Wait until we get to the teas. I don't know what it is, but Saori loves it. You can say it's one of her dignified characteristics," Ryu said. He smiled.
"Hey, where did Kiba sensei go," Saori asked as she turned around from paying.
Kiba whistled as he walked back towards the bakery.
He grinned. Tomorrow night was going to be remembered for years to come. He waved at the group as they walked towards him. "I see you bought the bakery out. The others will be in debt to you."
"Where did you go," Ryu asked as he looked around the towering boxes at Kiba.
"I went ahead and signed our groups up to participate in the festival. You guys will have to go back and sign-up for the individual events yourselves. They're doing something different this year. Everyone gets to wear necklaces with charms on them. The different charms tell others what events you are participating in. They're also handy keepsakes," Kiba said.
"Isn't that costly," Eiyu asked.
"It sure is. That's why I paid for everyone," Kiba answered. He caught the shock on their faces. "The necklaces were five ryo a piece. Not too bad. You can participate in up to three events. The only event all of you will be in is the Lotus Competition."
"Wow, Kiba sensei, that's really nice of you," Saori said. "We could have bought ours though," she said softly. Kiba was being very generous.
"Oh, I'll get it out of the others somehow," Kiba said with a toothy grin. "I'm utterly broke now." He watched them roll their eyes at him.
Yanagi ran through the garden looking at all of the plants. She crouched to admire an iris. Kandai had found Kiba earlier and was hanging out with the others. Daiya had stayed with her. He was shyly walking behind her keeping his distance. "Oh, wow! They're decorating the garden for people to eat out here." She saw people bringing out tables and seats. They were arranging them in a nice pattern.
Daiya stood still. His gaze was attracted to a cloth that had been hung. It displayed a constellation that he was familiar with. It was beautifully painted. "Horus," he said softly.
Yanagi walked beside him. "You know astrology?" He moved away from her quickly. Yanagi looked at him sadly. "I'm not going to hurt you. I was only curious."
Daiya stayed his distance from her. Why was she looking at him like that? He tensed as he felt a hand plop onto his head. The shock of it made his heart clench. Daiya gasped in pain.
Ryu looked down at his team mate. "Daiya…?" His friend's eyes were closed. Ryu noticed his breathing was quick and sharp. "What's wrong?"
Yanagi watched in horror as Daiya collapsed. Ryu was shaking his shoulder hard. Daiya wasn't getting up. What's happening? He's not moving. Her eyes were wide. She was afraid for him.
"Shit!" Ryu turned him over so he could put his ear to his mouth, listening. Ryu sat up. "Kiba," he yelled to the top of his lungs. Kiba came running along with the others. "Daiya won't get up," Ryu said in a panic.
Kiba crouched. "Daiya?" He went over his vital signs. His fingers then went for the boy's vest. Once his fingers found the lining, he tore the Velcro loose. Kiba put his ear to the boy's chest. He heard the uneven rhythm of Daiya's heart.
Saori, Kandai, and Eiyu put down their boxes and other purchases. "Is he having an attack," Saori said bewildered. Kiba looked up at her. "Takeru said Daiya has attacks that cause him to pass out. It's due to his heart problems."
"What did Takeru say about fixing it," Kiba asked.
"There isn't anything to fix it. That's why his mom is taking training from the Hokage while we're gone. There isn't a way to help Daiya right now," Saori said sadly. She watched as Kiba lifted him.
"I have to get him to Sasuke. You guys stay here," Kiba ordered. He took off at high speed.
Ryu slumped against a tree. "I scared him," he said ashamed of himself. "I didn't mean to. Ms. Izumi warned us about loud noises and sudden movements around him." Ryu closed his eyes. No one could say anything him. They all watched as he hid his face in his knees.
Sasuke sat on the futon with his hand over Daiya's chest. He could feel his lungs pushing air in and out. It was lucky an adult had been with him. I hope Izumi is making progress. "Takeru, I need you to watch Daiya for me, alright?"
Takeru nodded slowly. He watched his father get up. "Dad, are you angry with Ryu?"
Sasuke looked away as he gathered his thoughts. "No. If he had done it intentionally, he wouldn't be here right now. Although, he assumes I'm going to harm him in some way."
"Saori said Ryu wouldn't budge from the garden area. It took all four of them to persuade him to come back," Takeru said. He played with the box in his hands.
"Ryu takes things very hard. He always has. If Daiya is in pain come and get me. Don't hesitate, Takeru." He put his hand up in a wave.
Takeru thought back to his conversation with Masaru earlier. "Aren't you jealous of Daiya," Masaru asked as they drank the tea Saori had made. Takeru put his cup down looking at him strangely. "He takes a lot of attention away from you. Your parents have to worry about where he is and what he's doing all of the time."
"They're supposed to. My parents are his parents. What harm is there in letting them take care of him? He's never had anyone before, Masaru. I think you're saying those things because you don't like him."
"I don't understand him. I'm trying to like him. Idai is my friend and I shouldn't have a reason to not like Daiya, but-"
"You don't. You've always been annoyed with him. If you don't have a valued reason why you don't like someone, it makes you a jerk. Areku didn't like him or Idai, at first. They were afraid of his persistence. You're acting like you're concerned about me, but you really aren't. I'm not taking sides. I've wanted a brother since I was little. I like Daiya. I know why he is the way he is. My dad told me. I'm not sitting here and listen to you try and persuade me to hate him." Takeru left disgusted with Masaru.
I'm not going to hate Daiya. He's my brother whether he accepts me or not. Takeru turned the box over a few times in his hands. The object shifted as he did so. He closed his eyes. Masaru's a jerk.
"What's in the box," Daiya asked as he opened his
eyes.
"Hi, are you rested?" Takeru crawled over him. "I bought you a present a few days after you came to live with us. I just haven't found the right time to give it to you."
"You bought me something?"
"Uh-huh. Do you want it now," Takeru asked. He helped Daiya sit up. "If I give this to you, it's a secret. You can't let Dad see." He handed the box to Daiya once he agreed.
Daiya stared at it. No one had ever bought him anything before except the Uchihas. This was a gift. He slowly tore off the blue wrapping paper. Carefully, he lifted the top off. Daiya furrowed his brows as he took the necklace out. There was a charm on it. He held it in his hand as he examined it. His throat clenched.
"It's the Uchiha clan symbol – a fan. I added a lightening bolt in the middle of it to signify you. You're part of our family now. I didn't want you to forget your heritage." Takeru took it from Daiya and put it around his neck. "It looks good on you," he said smiling.
Daiya gasped hard. He grabbed Takeru and wrapped his arms around him tightly. He gritted his teeth trying to suppress his emotions. The necklace was custom made. Takeru had spent a lot of ryo to have it designed. "I've never had a brother before," he said gently as he shut his eyes.
Takeru turned Daiya's chin so he could look at him face-to-face. There were tears in his brother's eyes. "I love you, Daiya." Daiya started to cry harder. "I've waited for you all of my life. I want to keep you." Takeru hugged Daiya and let his head rest on his collarbone.
Daiya clung to Takeru for some time. He hid his face on him. Once he wiped his eyes, he coughed. Takeru put his arms around his neck and tackled him to the futon. Daiya stuck the necklace in his vest. He watched Takeru with a blank, calm curiosity.
"Do you know what events you're signing up for? Lee sensei has gone to get the sheets. Do you want to be my partner for the Lotus Competition?"
"Yeah, but if we get a date together, I'm not kissing you," Daiya said. Takeru laughed at him. He kept his new brother close to him for a little while. Takeru didn't seem to mind at all. He was contempt for the time being.
Yanagi grumbled as she and Masaru were being carried under Sasuke's arms. It was time to take their punishment. She noticed how everyone seemed to be coming out of their rooms as they passed. She waved at Saori smiling. "I have to go take my punishment now. I'll see you later, Saori!"
Hire and Idai followed after them. "I wouldn't be voicing that too happily. You've never taken one of his punishments before. Watching is not the same as experiencing."
"And common sense doesn't go hand-in-hand with intelligence. If you had kept that in mind, you would have thought twice about what you said to Idai," Masaru said with his teeth gritted. He acked when he was squeezed hard around his sides by Sasuke.
"Quiet – the both of you. All of you are fixing to learn the real meaning of mental torture," Sasuke said as he went down the stairs.
"Um, Ryu, will they be alright," Saori asked worried about all four of them.
"For the most part. He's basically going to break them down. It's the only way to break Hire. Normally, I get ran to death," he said with a smile. Saori blinked. "Sensei makes me run up and down a tree using chakra. It's hard work trying to glue yourself to the bark and run back and forth without falling off."
"You can do that," she asked rather amazed with him.
"Yeah, it's some form of training sensei was under by his trainer. They had to learn to balance upside-down and run up trees. It's difficult to master," Ryu said. He winked at Saori.
"He learned it from your father," Eiyu said out of nowhere. "Chakra control was one of Kakashi sensei's specialties." Eiyu noticed the heavy shock on Ryu's face. "You weren't aware that your father was his trainer? He trained the Hokage and Yanagi's mother."
My father trained Sasuke? Is that why he wanted me on his team? He's paying my father back by training me. Ryu lowered his head. He felt unworthy about being on his team all of a sudden.
"Eiyu, it wasn't your place to say that," Lee said. He pointed to Kandai, Gin, Areku, and Onari. "Go over there and sign the sheet for the events you want to participate in." Eiyu walked away glancing back at them. Lee put his hand on Ryu's shoulder. "Ryu, Sasuke did not volunteer to be your trainer because of Kakashi. He did so because you needed his help like Daiya. His sole purpose to his team is to bring out the best in all of you. Do you remember when you first met all of us?" Ryu shook his head slowly. "The day the teams were decided, you were very nervous. There was trouble on where to place you. No one knew who would benefit you the most. There was a fight over you, you know."
"A fight," Saori repeated. "Why?" She watched Lee smile.
"Kiba and Sasuke argued about which one of them would be better training Ryu. It lasted for two days," he said holding his fingers up. "They are both very competitive. The Hokage wanted them to settle it amongst themselves. It was two days of having to listen to those guys argue, along with constant competition. Kiba lost to Sasuke over a pie eating contest." Ryu raised a brow. "It was a harmless event decided by Sakura."
"I don't understand how Kiba sensei lost to Sasuke sensei," Saori said. She looked at Lee. He smiled at her rather happily.
"Simple. Sasuke cheated," Lee said matter-of-factly. "He put small grub worms into a few of the pies. Kiba saw them and got sick instantly."
"That's horrible," Saori said.
Ryu smirked. "That's downright funny. It sounds like something I would do."
"My point is, you were wanted, Ryu. Sasuke didn't choose you out of pity. If he was that determined to get you on his team, than you shouldn't assume he was doing so as a favor to Kakashi," Lee said. "Don't forget to sign up for the event you guys want to take place in." Lee walked off.
"Why in the world are we at a bath house," Hire asked. She looked at Sasuke. He pointed for them to go inside. She glanced around at the establishment. It was humid in the place. Steam drifted through two side entrances that led to the back.
"Welcome to the Habinaro Bath House! Ah, you are the trainer that has come with students. We are glad to have you help us today," the man said from behind the pedestal. "The robes you are to wear are here," he said as he handed them to the kids.
"Robes?" Masaru looked at it. It was a bath robe. Was he supposed to undress and walk around in this?
"I don't like the looks of this," Idai said as he watched
two elderly men pay and walk through the door.
Sasuke looked at all of them seriously with his hands in his pockets. "Yanagi and Hire will be working in the men's bathing area. Masaru and Idai are in the women's bathing area. You guys are to clean the areas, get supplies, and assist the customers." Masaru started to blush. "Don't get too comfortable, Masaru. It's Senior Citizen's Day at Habinaro's. All of the young customers are attending to festival preparations."
Sasuke had to refrain from laughing. The students were all in total shock. They were probably envisioning what they would see in the bathing areas. "I wouldn't try to bail, either. I'll be sitting right here." He pointed to the couch in the waiting area.
An elderly woman paid the man at the pedestal. She made a comment about how Idai and Masaru were attractive young men and they about died. "Chop, chop. Time to get to work," Sasuke ordered. This is going to be amusing. I need a good laugh. Perhaps this will teach them to think twice about defying me.
Masaru swept the hall as Idai walked past him with dirty towels. Idai was eying the basket as if it was going to leap out at him and take his face off. Idai slipped on a puddle of water in the hall. He yelped as the filthy towels fell onto him. "Idai, are you okay?" Masaru ran to him and stopped.
Idai had the look of pure terror on his face. "Get them off of me!" Masaru started to sweep the towels off with the broom.
Yanagi sat on a wooden seat scrubbing the back of an elderly gentleman. She had her eyes closed and shivers running up and down her spine. Hire screamed as an old man slapped her on the rear. Yanagi was alerted and stood up to be faced with an elderly man fully nude in front of her. Her eyes widened and she screamed so loudly and high-pitched that Hire came running.
Hire flew at the man with a side kick to get him away from Yanagi. The man flew into the water with a splash. Yanagi was shaking all over. Hire put her hands on the girl's shoulders. "Hey! Snap out of it!" That old geezer is supposed to be wearing a towel! Hire grabbed Yanagi and carried her out of the area.
"Your punishment is not over, young lady," the man from behind the pedestal warned.
"Stow it! Your customers are supposed to be wearing towels! Yanagi's scarred for life!"
Sasuke walked down the hall annoyed. "What is all of the commotion?" Hire was challenging the owner.
"Sensei, some old fart walked right up to Yanagi without a towel on! Look at her!" Hire turned to where he could see the girl's face.
"Is that true? I thought you assured me that they would be covered at all times," Sasuke said threateningly. "Her father is one of the trainers with us."
The man bowed several times lowly to the trainer with raven hair. "I'm sorry, sir. I will go see what happened immediately," he said as he backed away. He hurried off to the bathing area.
Sasuke carried Yanagi out of the area. "Your punishment is not over, Hire. The rest of you will continue." She went back to work.
"Pillow fight!" Ryu hit Kiba on the back of the head with it. "Oh, come on. You're acting like an old man, Kiba sensei." That got his attention. He ran around the room with Kiba trying to tackle him.
"Ow, Ryu, that was my foot," Hire said as she threw her own pillow at him.
Eiyu twitched his eye. "It's hard to meditate when they're so noisy." He watched Hire tackle Ryu by his legs. Kiba was on top of him with a pillow smacking the spiky haired boy with it.
Saori came back with her pink pajamas on. "You
guys, Dad said we need to be quiet. It's almost morning. We need to get some sleep."
Hire looked out of the window. Birds were already starting to chirp. She pulled the blinds down. "If we don't rest, we won't be able to stay up all night for the festival."
Saori crawled into the futon. "I can't wait! It's going to be so much fun! Hire, what did you sign up for?"
Hire blinked as Saori spoke to her. "I signed up for Spider Crawlers and Hunter." She sat next to Saori cautiously. Ryu had to share a futon with Eiyu. Shikamaru would freak if Kiba had let Saori and Ryu sleep next to each other.
"Who are you doing the Lotus Competition with," Saori asked.
"Um, Areku volunteered to be my partner," Hire said rather embarrassed. Why had Kiba's son wanted to participate with her? She turned over. "Anyway, we need to get some sleep."
Kiba dragged Ryu to the futon and threw him on top of it. "I don't think it was wise for you to eat sweets after dinner. Settle down, Ryu."
Ryu flopped back. He looked at Eiyu. "Are you asleep?"
"No, and I never will be unless you shut up," Eiyu said as he put the pillow on his head. He heard Ryu smirk.
"Alright, whose sleeping where?" Sasuke watched Yanagi smile at Daiya. Daiya stepped back. He went around Sasuke and hid. He sighed. "She has to sleep next to one of you."
"Come on, Yanagi. It'll be like bunking together," Kandai said. "Daiya's not going to let us near him. It's better to let sensei take care of him," he said trying to coax her into leaving Daiya alone. Yanagi frowned.
As the lights were turned off, Yanagi glanced at Daiya. He was balled up into a fetal position, his eyes watching all of them. There has to be a way to help him adjust. "Kandai, turn your back towards me. I think he's afraid we'll hurt him while he's asleep. We shouldn't face him," she said gently. Kandai rolled over as she did. Yanagi sensed Daiya easing up.
Sasuke studied Daiya. He was very nervous about being in the room with the other kids. He wondered what would have happened if the trainers had decided to let the kids board alone. It was probably not going to be a good outcome. "Daiya, come here," he said softly. The boy didn't move. He was studying Sasuke for a moment before he finally moved a little closer. "It's okay. I don't have anything on me," he said showing Daiya his open palms. He lifted his shirt and shook it. Nothing fell out. Daiya's fear of adults dug deep. He had every reason to be cautious.
Daiya moved closer, but caught himself in mid-crawl and hesitated. "Daiya, it's alright," he said again as he tried to coax him over. After another minute or so, he managed to crawl over fully. Daiya lay down slowly next to Sasuke.
Sasuke gently wrapped his arms around the boy and pulled him closer. He put one of his hands on his head like he used to do to Takeru when he was afraid. If I move right now, it'll frighten him. Sasuke relaxed his body. When he did, Daiya relaxed. He closed his eyes. You're defiantly a challenge, Daiya.
Daiya stayed awake until the sun rose over the trees. Yanagi and Kandai were fast asleep. He looked up at Sasuke. Daiya bit his lower lip. He actually felt safe. He moved even closer to where he could feel Sasuke's chest rising and falling. Sasuke wouldn't hurt me. I don't think he would… He never has no matter how angry I was, or what I did on the team. He's never hurt me. Is that what a Dad is? Daiya closed his eyes. "I like having you as a dad," he said softly.
Sasuke opened his eyes. He petted the boy's brown hair softly. And I like having you as a son, Daiya. Let's hope I never meet the bastard that chose to abandon you. "Sweet dreams, lightening bug," he said as he pulled the comforter over Daiya's shoulders.