V7 Ch 8
Yanagi's Gift
Part I
Onari crawled over Daiya slowly. Today was a special day for her brother. It was his fifteenth birthday. Onari looked at Takeru as she smiled coyly. She swayed her hips, wanting to wake her brother up really badly. "Takeru, can Onari wake up Daiya now?"
"No, not yet. I'm still trying to put up the banner," Takeru said as he pinned it to the wall. He looked at it with pride. "Ri, you were supposed to get Saori and Yanagi to help you learn how to write 'Happy Birthday Daiya' properly," he said as he turned around.
"Takeru, Onari wanted to write it herself," she said as she looked at him. The kanji on the banner was badly messed up. He started to attach balloons to the banner. "Now can Onari wake up brother Daiya?"
"You're more excited about his birthday than he usually is," Takeru said. He tied the last balloon onto the banner. Takeru stepped back to marvel at his work. "Man, Daiya's sleeping rather hard, isn't he?" He peered over to look at his brother sprawled out over the bed, twisted in the sheets. "Dad put Ryu and Daiya on some kind of intense training to help them with their Taijutsu."
"So… Takeru and Onari should not wake up Daiya?" She looked at him. Onari wanted her brother to get up, but it appeared he needed the extra sleep.
"It is his birthday. We should let him sleep in. We can tell everybody in the village about the party while he's asleep," Takeru said as he smiled. He tugged her a little to get her up.
Onari got off the bed slowly. Daiya began to curl up in the covers. He was sleeping so hard he didn't hear a word of the conversation around him. She looked down at his legs. The sheets were halfway on and halfway off. Onari leaned down to kiss her brother on the cheek. "Happy Birthday, brother Daiya," she said softly.
Takeru walked with Onari out to the garden. The party was going to be out here later that day. "How are we going to get everything set up without Daiya finding out?" He had to think of something. "I wonder if we can distract him."
"Takeru, Daiya is not stupid. He will know if Takeru is trying to keep him away from something," she said. It was the truth. Her brother had become more observant over the past two years.
"What if Ryu could use his genjutsu to make the garden appear normal while we're setting everything up," he said pondering. He wondered if it was even possible. Was Ryu able to hold an illusion for several hours?
"Takeru, he can get out of genjutsu traps now," Onari said. "Onari is sorry," she said as he sulked. Apparently, she had shot his train of thought down. "Maybe, Takeru shouldn't worry. Daiya is tired. He will probably sleep a long time, jes?"
"Let's hope he does. I don't have a proper solution for a distraction. Unfortunately for us, Daiya's become more like Dad," Takeru said as an afterthought. "It's getting harder for me to do things without him finding out." Onari looked at him raising a brow. "Okay, let's go gather everybody. I suppose we can tell Areku first. He lives the farthest away."
Takeru and Onari walked to Areku Inuzuka's house. There were children already out on the road so early that morning. Two kids ran past Takeru chasing each other. He was only thirteen-years-old, but he found himself wondering about the future with Onari. He wanted to stay with her as long as he could. Takeru glanced at her.
Onari caught him checking her out. She cocked her head at him. Why was he looking at her like that? His eyes were noticing everything about her. Takeru looks like he wants to tackle me out in public. We must behave, or risk getting in trouble. She shook her head at him.
Takeru didn't have the slightest idea why Onari was shaking her head. He looked around for any signs. What is she shaking her head at? I'm not doing anything. Takeru started to mess with his shirt. Not like, I wouldn't want to do anything. He looked away as he walked beside her. We'd probably be found out and both Dad and Daiya would kill me.
"Takeru, ball," Onari said. A red ball flew at him. Of course, he wasn't paying attention. The ball nailed him straight in the forehead. She stopped as he clung to his head.
"Ah! Dammit," Takeru swore. He looked in the direction where the ball appeared to have come from. He glared at the group of children who were watching him. Just as he opened his mouth to yell at them, Onari put her hand over his mouth to quiet him.
Onari crouched to retrieve the ball for the kids. She bounced it in her hand before she threw it back. She turned her attention back to Takeru. "What would Takeru do if his own children hit him with a ball? Yelling does not correct misbehavior. An example is the correct influence," she said. Onari started to walk off again.
Takeru rubbed his forehead as he caught up to her. He swore there was a red mark in its place. "Onari, you weren't the one that got hit," he said lowly.
"Takeru needs to learn how to talk to kids. Takeru was a kid once," Onari said. She glanced at him. "Takeru does not remember? Onari has always heard Takeru talk like Sasuke since she came here."
"Ri, I'm a little too young to be worried about how to talk properly to children," he said. He couldn't figure out why she was worried about how he came across. "Why are you so concerned?"
"Some day Takeru will have his own children, Jes? He needs to learn how to catch bees with honey and not vinegar," she said as she made her point. Onari yawned a little.
Takeru blushed. He supposed some day he would have children, yes. He glanced at her again. Takeru reached for Onari's hand. He interlaced his fingers with hers. I wonder what kind of mother Onari would make. He leaned towards her to kiss her on the side of the head. He felt her squeeze his hand in return.
The both of them continued to walk until they entered Inuzuka territory. It was Takeru's first time being on their land. He had only recently learned where Kiba and Areku lived. It was partially due to the fact he didn't socialize with Areku. It was mainly Onari that came over to visit Kiba. She liked the man because he was as rough as she was. "Ri, be on your best behavior," he said as they walked together.
Onari looked at him oddly. "Onari only comes to play with brother Kiba," she said in her defense. She knew Areku didn't approve of her wild nature.
"I know. That's what worries me," Takeru said with a half smile. "You get rough when you're around Kiba. Areku is kind of dignified, even for an Inuzuka."
"Brother Kiba can tolerate Onari," she said. It was the truth. Kiba kept her busy when she visited. He taught her how to track and learn about nature. She found it necessary to learn about weather conditions and the landscape around her. She was attempting to plan ahead regarding her training. Ninja had to know something about the environment they worked in.
Takeru knocked on the door gently. It didn't take much to get the attention of the Inuzuka clan. Sure enough, someone was coming to the door. The door opened to reveal a scruffy looking Kiba with a piece of chicken in his mouth.
"Brother Kiba," Onari yelled happily. She tackled the man to the floor. Kiba looked up at her with the chicken leg still in his teeth. Onari towered over him as she tilted her head. "Kiba, it's Daiya's birthday today!"
"Oh, really? So what are you two planning," he asked as he spoke with his mouth full. Kiba sat up slowly with Onari in his lap.
"We're going to have a surprise party for Daiya," Takeru said. "We're here to see if you and Areku would like to come." He watched Areku poke his head around the corner. He waved at the older boy.
"How old is Daiya now?"
"Fifteen," Takeru and Onari said together.
"I'll try to talk Areku into it. He's been tending to Ichigo since she was injured on our last mission. Speaking of which, Onari, you know better than to leave as you did. You haven't apologized to putting us into unnecessary danger." Kiba turned her face to look at him.
"Onari didn't mean for Kiba and Areku to get hurt," she said. Onari leaned towards Kiba to kiss him beside the mouth. She sat back.
Kiba blushed badly. He coughed. Onari was only a child, but she sure did have ways of persuasion.
Takeru rubbed his forehead. "Mom and Dad are planning on having the party around late this afternoon. We're going around telling everyone. If you want to show up early, you can help us decorate. The garden isn't ready yet. Mom wanted us to wait for some reason," Takeru said trying to get back on track.
"I'll see what Areku wants to do first. I don't have any plans for the day. I can show up early to help. I don't mind. How many people are you guys expecting, "Kiba asked.
"Onari is inviting everyone on the teams. Everyone that brother Daiya knows will be there. Onari and Yanagi have a special present for Daiya," she said happily.
"A special present, huh? What kind of present, Ri? Don't look at me as if you don't know all of a sudden! How come I can't know, too," Takeru asked.
"Takeru Uchiha will get more excited than Daiya and spill the milk. Onari swore to Yanagi that she wouldn't tell anyone but Kiba," she said seriously. Kiba laughed at her. She gave him a Sasuke smirk.
"Ri, that's not fair! You and Yanagi are hiding something," Takeru said crossing his arms. "How important is this present?" He watched her move her arms out wide.
"It's very important. Daiya's present will make everybody happy," Onari said. "Onari will tell brother Kiba now." She shooed Takeru away. Takeru walked off and turned his back to her. She whispered into Kiba's ear. The man's eyes became wide. "It's a secret. Kiba must not tell anybody."
Kiba was as surprised as he could be. He was happy and excited at the same time. "I won't tell," he swore as he nodded. "Just be sure not to tell anyone else. I guess I'll see you guys later." Onari rose at that point.
Onari started to walk off with Takeru. "You still won't tell me, will you," Takeru said.
"No, Takeru, Onari will not tell," she said seriously.
Kiba stood on his feet as he watched the two of them walk down the path. "Well, I'll be damned. Daiya is defiantly going to get the best surprise of his life." He went inside to get ready for the celebration.
Onari skidded on the ground as she ran from Takeru. He was right behind her as they entered the Hyuuga compound. "Onari is going to tell Eiyu and Kandai!" She took off running to the dojo. The twins normally trained there in the morning. She knew where to find them.
"Onari, slow down! It's not a race," Takeru shouted. He panted. What has gotten into her? As soon as we left Kiba's, she's been running to get here!
Onari sat on the porch with her legs crossed. She watched Takeru put his hand on the wood, hang his head and pant. "Takeru, what took you so long? Takeru has an old man's legs." He glared at her. Onari leaned over to kiss him quickly before she took off again.
"That girl is going to be the death of me," he said as he lazily followed.
Onari opened the shoji screen to the dojo quickly. She stopped as Neji and Kandai paused their movements. They were training indeed. They both stared at her for a moment. Eiyu was sitting with his hands on his legs. He raised a brow at her.
"Hi, Onari," Kandai said as he smiled at the girl. "Are you here to train with us? No?" He watched as Onari ran at his father. Kandai moved back as the foreign girl tackled Neji to the ground.
Neji fell over as he was jumped. Onari's speed and strength had increased dramatically over the past two years. He looked up at her with a glare. She was swaying her hips like a cat ready to pounce. Onari was itching to tell him something. "Go ahead, Onari."
Takeru finally managed to catch up to her. He walked into the dojo to see his girlfriend on top of Mr. Hyuuga. "Oh, no. She's already jumped him, too," he said ashamed.
"What exactly is all of the excitement over," Eiyu said as he stood on his feet. His father was finally sitting up. Onari was grabbing Kandai's hands and swinging him around.
"It's Daiya's birthday," Takeru told his teammate.
"We're planning on throwing him a surprise party late this afternoon. All of you are invited. Ri, you're not supposed to pick up guys like that."
Onari looked at Takeru oddly. She had Kandai lifted in her arms, his legs wrapped around her hips. "Takeru, it's just Kandai," she said as if that would explain what she was doing.
"Takeru's become quite serious, hasn't he? Do you suppose he's taking after his brother, or his dad," Kandai said teasingly. He smiled.
"There is no way I am anything like Daiya. Onari put him down. That isn't ladylike," Takeru said in an effort to get her to behave. She put Kandai down scowling.
"Onari isn't a lady," Eiyu said truthfully. "She's a complete loose cannon." Onari shot him a mean look.
"Eiyu, there is no reason for you to be inappropriate," Neji said. He was aware that Eiyu's mood had become stern since Onari had started dating Takeru. "You guys are being invited to an important event. It doesn't mean you have to go."
"I'll go. I can enjoy myself with or without Eiyu," Kandai said. "He's become a sourpuss lately." He gave Onari a hug. He liked it when she was playful. It was fun to be around her.
Onari leaned into Kandai. The only physical evidence between he and Eiyu that told them apart was the way they wore their hair. Eiyu preferred to wear his hair loose like his father. Kandai preferred his to be in a ponytail. Eiyu's attitude had grown quite negative as of late. Onari glanced at him. Apparently, he was unaware that she understood a heck of a lot more than she let on.
Takeru noticed how Onari was acting. She was taking refuge by being near Kandai. He was not blind to the fact that Eiyu still had feelings for Onari. His teammate was bitter over the situation. "I think we should go, Ri. If you want to come, you're welcome to, Eiyu. See you later, Kandai," Takeru said as he reached for Onari's hand. He walked away with her.
Kandai looked at his brother with disappointment. "It's not Takeru's fault he chose to admit the way he felt and you didn't to her. I like Onari. She's my friend and the least you can do is have respect for her."
Eiyu lowered his gaze from Kandai's. Whether he liked it or not, Takeru had chosen to completely confess to Onari. He was acting like a child over a girl. Even his father was looking at him sternly.
"Eiyu, do you honestly think as much as Onari has improved in her training and skills, that she is still unable to decipher a person's true intentions towards them," Neji asked. "Onari is not as much of a loose cannon as you may think. Her behavior has improved greatly to what it used to be. She's only herself when she's around others she is comfortable with. I'm sorry that you are choosing to not be a part of her and Takeru's lives. That is your decision and I cannot change it for you," he said as he glanced at Kandai.
"If you wish to join the celebration, Kandai, you are allowed to go. You have my permission. Your brother must make his own decision," Neji said as he walked out of the dojo. The matter was over with.
Onari clung to Takeru outside the Hyuuga compound. She didn't understand why Eiyu was being mean to her. Takeru had his arms around her and his head leaning against hers. "Onari does not know why Eiyu doesn't like her anymore," she said muffled.
Takeru lifted her chin. He was taller than Onari by two inches. "Ri, I don't think that's why Eiyu is being the way he is. He's being a poor sport. He is upset with me because I told you how I felt – how I truly felt about you. I've been saying it for a few years, even though, you weren't able to understand me," Takeru said as he leaned towards her. He closed his eyes as he kissed her sweetly, his knuckles stroking her jaw line.
Onari opened her eyes as Takeru parted the kiss. She loved him more than anything in her life. They had lived together for two years. She reached her hands up to touch his face. Takeru smiled at her softly. "Onari loves Takeru."
Takeru kissed her back as he wrapped his arms around her tightly. "I have been waiting to hear those words for so long," he said as he rubbed his nose against hers.
"Takeru, do you want Onari to marry you," she asked as she watched the expression on his face. Onari knew he was the type of person who didn't hide anything. He was very confident in who he was.
"Yeah," Takeru said. "I want nothing more than for you to always be by my side." He reached for her hand and placed it over his heart. Takeru looked at her with a loving gaze. "You've had my heart since I saw those wild eyes of yours."
Onari blushed at Takeru's words. He was only a boy when they had first encountered one another. He had been innocent and closed off to the outside world. Takeru Uchiha had grown up quite well. He was becoming a man. Her fingers found their way to his. In that moment, there was no doubt in her mind that she had been destined to meet him. They still had a few more people to notify about the surprise party. They left the area outside the Hyuuga compound. The day was pressing on.
"A surprise party for Daiya? Sure, I can go," Gin said softly. "It's already noon though. You guys still have to inform Ryu, Saori, and Masaru. I don't mind helping. It will be easier if we split up. You won't make it to three residences and have time to decorate. Time is running out."
"I can go tell Masaru if Onari will tell Ryu," Takeru said. He looked at her to make sure it was alright. She nodded. "Alright, Gin, Saori might be training out in the sparring ring. She's been practicing a lot more. We'll split up." He took off running away from the flower shop owned by Gin's family. "Thanks, Gin!"
"Gin, wear a pretty kimono for the party," Onari said hinting at her. She smiled at the shy girl cheesily before she took off towards Ryu's house.
Daiya woke up feeling groggy. He looked out at the room. No one was there. He didn't hear Onari or Takeru shouting or feet hitting the wooden floors. He rolled over, flopping his legs on the bed. He brought his hands up to rub at his eyes as he yawned. Daiya sat up. He groaned. His body ached. Sasuke had taken him and Ryu seriously when they had announced they wanted to be trained as ANBU.
Daiya swung his legs over the bed. He yawned again. "Takeru? Onari?" There was no answer. He let his feet hit the floor. Daiya looked around the room again. This time he saw the banner with balloons on it. He had forgotten it was his birthday. Daiya eased out of the room. One could never be too cautious if living with Onari.
Daiya looked in the kitchen. No one was there. Usually Izumi was fixing something for later. He knocked on the bedroom door. "Mom? Dad?" No answer again. "Where is everybody?" It was unusual for him to be left home alone. Everyone worried about him.
Daiya walked out to the garden. It was unchanged. "Sasuke!" That didn't get his dad's attention. Daiya only called the man by his real name when he was frustrated. Sasuke didn't like it either. He was too used to Daiya referring to him as 'Dad'.
Daiya grumbled. He scratched his scruffy hair. He decided he'd take a bath since there was less of a chance for Takeru to run in on him to get away from Onari. He threw his nightclothes into the basket. After the hot water was finished, he poured warm salts in the water.
Daiya got in and grunted as he sat down. His body was on fire. His muscles ached from all of the hard training. Daiya supposed he could get away with not being so serious since no one was around. He slipped into the water and floated on his back. He closed his eyes letting the silence take him away.
Yanagi knocked on the door of the Uchiha house. She smiled a little to herself. She knew where everyone was. It was a setup and Daiya didn't know. Her job was to get him out of the house so his parents could set up the place. Yanagi had had the privilege of helping her mom and Izumi make the cake.
Yanagi waited patiently. She tottered on her feet thinking. Daiya soon opened the door. "Hi, handsome," she said as she kissed him on the lips. She threw her arms around his neck. Yanagi could smell the soap on him. "Happy Birthday," she said.
Daiya tilted his head. He put his arms around her. "I forgot about it, again. Dad has me and Ryu training our butts off. My whole body is sore."
"I'm sorry. Do you want me to give you a massage," Yanagi asked. She watched him toughen up. He normally didn't complain. She laughed at him. He was defiantly hers. "So are you too sore to let me treat you?"
Daiya kissed her softly. When Yanagi was around, he acted differently. He supposed it was because she lighted up his life. "No, I can manage." He interlaced both of his hands with hers. "Where are we going?"
Yanagi tugged him along. "Come on, Daiya Uchiha, let's celebrate your birthday!" She walked with him rather fast paced. Her mother and Izumi were going to be here soon.
Daiya wondered where they were going. Yanagi pulled him into a small stand. He looked around. "Isn't it a bit too early for ice cream?" He wasn't a child. Yanagi looked at him somewhat hurt as she paid the man in front. "I'm sorry, Yanagi. I didn't disapprove of it."
Yanagi felt stupid. Daiya was fifteen now. Ice cream was a rare treat for her, but her boyfriend wasn't going to think the same. She told the man she wished to change her order. "Just one. I'd like the cherry flavor, please." She thanked the man and started to lick her ice cream cone.
Daiya took her free hand and pulled her out of the food stand. "Yanagi, I wasn't trying to be rude. I don't like cold stuff. I'm somewhat cold natured. I catch chills easily and get sick," he said trying to make her understand.
"I should have thought about that. Then again, if you don't tell me, I cannot know. So what do you want to do with me? I'd suggest training, but you're sore enough," Yanagi said with a laugh. She got him to sit down with her as she ate. "So you said you and Ryu have been training hard?"
"Yeah, pretty much. I guess that's what I get for telling Ryu we'd make good ANBU." Daiya moved his feet on the ground. "I couldn't see Ryu and me wanting to take missions that led us away from the village for long. Ryu's gotten pretty serious about his concerns for Saori."
"So what is your reason for wanting to remain in the village? Are you afraid Takeru and Onari will get into trouble," Yanagi asked. She pictured Takeru running his butt off to get away from the girl. Onari could be aggressive when she wanted to be.
Daiya rested his elbows on his knees as he hunched over to stare at the ground. He was an adult now, wasn't he? He should mean what he says. It was time to be serious. "No, Takeru is admirable for getting away if he has to. I'd rather stay in the village to protect those that are mine to protect." He glanced at her. She was watching him. "If someone were to harm a hair on your head, I'd kill him where he stood. I'd electrocute him so badly that his own kin wouldn't be able to recognize his teeth," he said aggressively.
Yanagi knew Daiya meant what he said. He was one of the few that did. She blushed. Was she his whole reason for wanting to become an ANBU?
Daiya pressed further. "I know what my feelings are for you. You're the reason I push harder, Yanagi. You are what keeps me going when I want to break down. I know this isn't appropriate because of our ages, but-," he paused. He turned his head to look at her – to notice any changes in her behavior. "I want to spend the rest of my life with you," he said.
Yanagi's heart flip-flopped in her chest. "Are you aware of what that means?" She watched him move closer to her, his gray eyes matching hers. Yanagi's face flushed more when he touched her.
"I have to have children with you, Yanagi Lee. I want you to be mine. I want to see you on a bad morning- to sleep next to you on a cold night. I want to see your sleepy face – to hold you and know that you'll be looking at me smiling when I mess up," Daiya said. Yanagi was in shock. Had he frightened her? He feared he did.
Yanagi threw herself at him. She held onto him hard. Her forehead pressed against his collarbone. Yanagi was overwhelmed with emotions. Daiya wanted her. The boy she liked loved her more than he could express without being blunt. Yanagi had never dated anyone but Daiya. He was rough, blunt, serious, reserved, aggressive, and dominating in nature.
Yanagi knew he was like that because he wanted to protect the others around him. Daiya only knew his family and those that gave him a chance. He had come from a tormented existence to where he stood now. Yanagi kissed him hard, unexpectedly. She moved her hand to press him to her more. He didn't object to it.
Daiya blushed at how forceful she was being. He kissed her just as deeply. Was she saying 'yes' to him? Daiya gasped a little as he kept kissing her. He could taste the cherry ice cream on her tongue. He parted the kiss so they could both breathe. "Is that a yes?"
Yanagi smiled at him gently. "I'm really lucky to have an amazing guy who wants to be with me –who protects me and looks out for me – who thinks so much of me, as you do. We are too young to be thinking that way. Our parents would kill us. You're supposed to ask my parents for permission first, Daiya. I know you didn't understand that. I want to be with you more than anything. I don't intend to leave you. Let that be my answer for now. I can't say 'yes' because of our ages. We have to wait and see if we still love each other when we're older," Yanagi said hoping he would understand.
Daiya nodded slowly. "I understand. I'll ask again. I have no problem in waiting. Your parents don't like me much. Your dad watches me like a hawk when I'm around you – like my dad wouldn't deck me hard enough for trying something." That made Yanagi start to laugh.
"Yeah, Sasuke sensei is as reserved as you are," she said still laughing. "He would deck you and Takeru both!" Yanagi kicked her legs imagining it. It was funny. She'd seen Sasuke chase Daiya a time or two. It amused her.
"I'm glad I amuse you," Daiya said as he realized what she was laughing at. He shook his head. It wasn't funny to be chased if Sasuke was really after him, or Ryu. They'd get hit eventually.
Yanagi leaned over to kiss his cheek. "I have a special present for you." He looked at her quizzically. "It's not here though. We have to go to it. Do you want it now, or later?" She watched his expression. She was unsure how he was going to react once he received it.
"Is it a big present or something?" Daiya wondered what it was. Why did they have to go to it? Yanagi only smiled at him as she tugged for him to stand. He followed her to a small area near some houses. "Yanagi, are you taking me to another shop?" She didn't answer him right away.
Yanagi turned around as she walked backwards. "No, we'll eat later. If you want your present, you have to close your eyes. Someone is holding it for me," she said with a smile. "Don't open your eyes," she said as she put his hands up to his face.
Daiya closed his eyes. "I feel stupid doing this." He lowered his arms to cross them. What was taking Yanagi so long? What did she get me? She's taking her time. I shouldn't look. I should be a good sport about it. Daiya furrowed his brows. He didn't like closing his eyes.
Yanagi stood watching Daiya for a moment. He was wanting to look, but was behaving for the most part. She wanted to know if he would be all right with her gift. Yanagi couldn't let him stand there waiting forever. She took a deep breath. "Daiya, open your eyes."
Daiya opened his eyes slowly. There was a face watching him. He moved back quickly as he threw his back against the building. His body was tense, heart racing, breathing increased. The guy in front of him was watching his reaction sadly. Who was that?
Yanagi had feared he was going to react badly. She put her hand out to calm him. "Daiya, it's okay. He's not going to hurt you. It's okay," she said again trying to reassure him. Daiya's eyes were wild. He really didn't know who it was. She had to play it safe, or he would spark. "He's going to come closer, alright? He won't hurt you," she said as the tall male wearing a kimono walked slowly to Daiya.
Daiya lowered his head expecting to be attacked. He didn't know whom the guy was that Yanagi had brought. The male wore a blue kimono and had long red hair to his shoulders. Daiya tried to move farther back, but wasn't able as the guy leaned towards him.
"Lightening bugs aren't always brilliant," he said softly into Daiya's ear. He remained leaned over, not knowing what his reaction would be. He feared he was going to be rejected.
Daiya's eyes went wide. Those words. "Lightening bugs aren't always brilliant" – he had said those words to… his mind flashed back to the hospital when he had first overloaded. Daiya's heart fluttered. He turned to look at the male who was still leaned towards him. The eyes were sad. "I-..Idai…?"
Idai smiled sadly at Daiya. He nodded gently, his long hair moving. He had changed in the past two years as Daiya had. His best friend was muscular, aggressive, and more confident in his actions. Idai, was also more threatening. "Hi, lightening bug. Are you angry with me," he asked softly.
Daiya felt himself give out. Idai was here. The person he had worried about for two years and who had never written – was in front of him. His bottom lip quivered as he grabbed Idai hard. Daiya held onto him as he buried his face on his shoulder. "Why did you leave me," he asked as his emotions erupted.
Idai tried to speak. Daiya was crying and it caused him to get upset. Idai wanted to grab onto him so badly. His arms went up, but stopped. The nagging presence in the back of his mind prevented him.
Yanagi was watching it all unfold. Her hand covered her mouth to keep herself quiet. Idai was trying to fight himself. He wasn't supposed to be back in Konoha. He had returned to see Daiya. The bond he and Daiya held was strong. Idai is still fighting it. He's not well. He wanted to come back home so badly.
"I'm not supposed to be here, Daiya. My dad doesn't know I'm here. I left him in the Earth Country," Idai said. He was still trying to fight himself. "I'm sorry, Daiya, but I'm not well. I can't be fixed. I have to go."
"NO!" Daiya held onto him harder. "You're my best friend! I'm not abandoning you, Idai! I've spent two years not knowing if you were alive or dead. Don't ask me to spend every day of my life searching for you!"
Idai looked at him sadly. "Why are you trying to save me?" He watched as Daiya cupped his face in his hands.
"I'd rather you hate me for saving you than for you to be tormented like you are," Daiya said. "Why can't you let me be close to you? To help you, Idai?"
Idai didn't show any emotion. He felt the sadness in his heart, but his body wouldn't let him be rid of it. He swallowed hard. "I don't want to hurt you. I came back to see you again – even though, I wasn't supposed to. I'm still sick, Daiya. The person I become sometimes, isn't me. It's someone else. There's someone else inside of here," he said touching his chest. "I don't know who he is. My dad has tried to fix me. No one has been able to help me. I get violent when my personality changes. I have no control over it. The last thing I want is to hurt you, or Yanagi – anyone."
"Idai, if we can handle Daiya when he's angry, I don't think you'd be that bad," Yanagi said trying to give him hope.
Idai turned his serious gaze upon Yanagi. "Could you handle Sasuke sensei or perhaps, Kiba sensei on a bad day? What if they were at full strength and were your enemy, Yanagi. Could you handle me then?" Idai's serious eyes never wavered. "I'm not the same as you once knew. I'm more dangerous to those around me than you know. I cannot stay here. If I hurt someone, I won't forgive myself."
Yanagi walked towards him. "You're going to leave again as if you weren't here? That's not possible, Idai. I won't let you just walk away from us. Daiya has never forgotten about you. He's attached to you whether you realize it, or not!"
Daiya had his head lowered, eyes averted. He didn't want Idai to leave. What could he do? Idai was not well, in any means. He was still suffering. Idai wouldn't let him, or Yanagi try to help him. He raised his eyes. Idai was arguing with Yanagi about why he had to go. Daiya gritted his teeth. He watched how serious his best friend was becoming.
"It's not going to solve anything, Idai! You're not the only one who suffers! Do you want this to be the last time you see Daiya? Is it? His attacks have become more frequent!"
"Yanagi," Daiya shouted angrily. That was something he didn't like others to know. It was disrespectful to treat him differently.
Idai turned his head slowly to look at Daiya. "Is that true? Has it gotten worse?" Daiya would not look at him. Idai had fought himself endlessly just so he could make it here. "Are you going to die because of it," Idai asked sadly. His muscles tensed. The boy he had been was coming back. "Daiya!"
Daiya looked at the red haired sound-nin with a harsh gaze. "What do you want from me, Idai? I don't want your pity! If you want to leave – go!"
Idai pushed back the nagging presence in the back of his mind. It wanted to take a hold of him – control him. "Lightening bug, you were the reason I fought so hard to get here. I only wanted to come back to you, but even now, I'm hurting you. I don't want to hurt you," Idai said as he lifted his hands to place them on Daiya's shoulders. "Yanagi didn't know I was here until a few days ago. Right now, the thing inside of me is trying to come out. I don't want to hurt anyone," he said as his voice broke. Idai pressed his forehead against Daiya's.
"By leaving, you are, Idai," Daiya said as he grabbed a hold of the boy. "What is the point of us being best friends if you won't let me help you?"
"I'm the one that's supposed to help you, Daiya. You saved me a long time ago," Idai said. "I have to return the favor." At that point, Idai broke. He wrapped his arms around his best friend hard, pressing him to his body.
Yanagi wanted to break down, too. Idai had suffered with the full intent of trying to return to Konoha. She knew some of what he had been through. He had told her – that's why she hadn't rushed to Daiya bout Idai being in the village. Idai had to keep himself in control in order to be around others. "Idai, you have to tell Daiya what happens when you lose control. He has to know how to stop you – to help you." Idai was shaking his head. "Idai, please! I don't want to go against you and tell him. He's worried about you as much as I have."
"He'll hate me," Idai said as he took his hands off Daiya. "The one I want to protect is in front of me and I can't even protect myself." He looked away.
Daiya kept his hold on Idai. "I have to know what's wrong. You're supposed to confide in me. That's what friends do. Why is it so hard? Do you think I'll stop being your friend?" He saw Idai nod. "That's not going to happen. I've never lost hope in your return."
Yanagi put her hand on Idai's shoulder. "Please, Idai. We're still your friends. We do love you – even if you are a goofball sometimes or an unemotional statue."
"I-I get violent," Idai suddenly confessed. "It's like I'm in a dream. I can see the things happening, but I'm not able to stop them from occurring. I can hear someone's cruel voice as he attacks the others around me. My dad yells in anger when he's out. I'm fully aware of being restrained and I scream in pain as the being inside of me tries to overtake me. I can feel every sensation throughout my body when I'm attacked by those trying to defend themselves. When I come out of it, my head hurts so badly I can't see straight. I've killed someone in the past," Idai said with a shaky voice.
"Someone was trying to hold me in place at a temple with spells. I retaliated against him. I killed him in cold blood as he screamed in terror. I couldn't stop myself from doing it. Dad wouldn't look at me after that. There was blood all over my clothes and swords. He told me I was forbidden from coming back to Konoha. He had lost hope in helping me. I want to stay with you guys. I miss all of you so much, but I'll end up hurting you all."
Daiya stepped back to look at Idai. The Idai that he had known was in front of him again. Before, it had been a reserved Idai who was hollow and held no emotions. "Do you trust us," he asked.
Idai nodded slowly as he looked at Daiya. He lifted his hand to move Daiya's bangs out of his face. He was watching the boy from the lightening country with a soft expression. For the moment, Idai was lost.
Yanagi was watching Idai sadly. His slow movements and complacent expression told her Idai – the real Idai – was back. His moods shifted too quickly for a normal person's. The way he acted reminded her about something she had read in her mother's medical books. She turned around. "I'm getting Ryu, Idai. Don't be alarmed. He has been training to help Daiya on Sasuke's team. He can probably help." She left the two in her wake.
Daiya kept his attention on Idai. Idai had already warned them his mood changed without cause or reason. So far, he was fine. "What are you thinking about?" Idai shook his head. He was looking past Daiya. "You have to be thinking about something."
"Am I… an okay birthday present," Idai asked softly. It was only chance that he had returned a few days prior to Daiya's birthday. He had no realization of time anymore. Idai was only aware of the seasons changing around him.
Daiya felt his emotions overcome him again. He grabbed Idai and brought his head to rest on his shoulder. He closed his eyes as the overdue tears started to flow down his cheeks. Could he really save Idai before he lost himself? "You're the best present I've ever received." He meant it. Daiya felt Idai put his arms around his waist.
"Daiya, you're my best friend," Idai said softly. "I love you, even if I can't be fixed. I'll miss you terribly when I go." He felt Daiya kiss the top of his head. Daiya's body was slightly shaking with sadness. Idai wasn't sure if he could continue to live his life hurting the others around him. He had a lot to think about.
"Alright, Idai, I want you to watch the pencil. I want you to keep your eyes focused on it. Don't pay attention to anyone in the room. Only focus on the pencil," Ryu said. They were attempting to bring out Idai's 'better' half. They had to know what they were up against.
Kurenai stood off to her son's right watching. Idai had run away from Gai so he could return to Konoha. She had learned that much from Yanagi. The problems Idai faced had increased over the years. She believed the boy had a multiple personality locked away in his mind. Kurenai wondered if Idai had been brainwashed as a child when he had resided in the sound village. Idai admitted he was unaware of his own true strength when his other halfway was active.
As Idai's eyes grew tired, his head fell forward. His eyes closed. I'm not tired. I'm supposed to stay awake and focus. Why is it hard to keep my eyes open?
Daiya reached for Yanagi's hand and held onto it hard. He was afraid what was going to happen. Kurenai had warned them to be alert. Idai's attitude, personality, and physical strength were going to be altered. He and Yanagi were standing against the wall, as far away as possible.
Once Ryu was sure Idai's mind was in suspended animation, he lowered the pencil. "I want you to focus on the sound of my voice, Idai. Do you hear me?" Idai nodded slowly. "I'm going to ask you some questions. I'm not going to hurt you. please answer the question that I ask. Do you understand thus far?" Idai nodded again.
"Where were you born?"
"The Sound Village," Idai said softly.
"What is your name?"
"Idai."
"What is your surname?"
"Tatsumaki," he said even softer.
"Do you remember the clan you came from," Ryu asked as he watched Idai's body move a little. His posture was slumped over, head lowered.
"No," Idai answered.
"Who are your parents," Ryu asked. He wanted to see if Idai would answer his current adopted father, or his old family. He saw Idai's brows furrowed. "Please answer my question. Who are your parents?"
"O…Oru…sh-shin and… Yukihara," Idai said as his voice quivered.
Ryu glanced over his shoulder at his mother. She nodded her head for him to press further. It seemed they had a lead. "What happened to your mother?"
Idai gritted his teeth. He saw his mom yelling at him about what a shame to the family he was. She dragged him away from the house they lived in. Yukihara insulted him repeatedly, only to throw him out into the street and lock the gates on him. "She… She caste me out," he said.
Yanagi's heart was breaking. Idai appeared as a small boy in front of her who was still reliving his past. She leaned into Daiya.
"Where is your father," Ryu asked softly.
Idai began to play with his hands. "My..My father died.. He tried…to s-save me," he said stuttering. A horrible flash appeared in his mind of his father being thrown against the wall. Idai raised his arms to press his hands against his head.
Ryu had to press on. He watched Idai shake his head, trying to get the memory to go away. "Idai, is the memory painful?"
"Y-yes!"
"Idai, I need you to be strong. Try to put the memory of your father aside. Press it back." Ryu waited until the boy's posture had relaxed. "Why did you choose to come back to Konoha?"
Yanagi watched as Idai's facial expression contorted. He was struggling with his own mind. She moved even closer to Daiya. Daiya's eyes were intently watching his best friend.
"Idai, please answer the question," Ryu said sternly.
"I-I came back because I missed my home. I-I have no friends where I am. I missed Daiya and…-"
Kurenai moved forward. She put her hand on her son's shoulder. The fact Idai was having trouble focusing on the questions Ryu was asking, told her he was in trouble. "Ryu, we need to switch."
"Hi, Idai, it's Kurenai. I'm going to ask you something really important." She leaned forward to watch his face for signs of being over taken. "Why did you want to see Daiya so badly?"
"Daiya's my… best friend," Idai said with a sad voice. "I want to stay with…" He didn't complete his sentence.
"Idai, will you let your friends help you? They want to be close to you." Kurenai moved back. Idai was shaking his head as he answered 'yes'. She signaled for Ryu and the others to be on their toes. Idai was not controlling his own actions. She and Ryu withdrew kunai to protect themselves.
"Idai, lift your right arm for me," Kurenai said as she tested the boy. Idai lifted his left arm. She tried again. "Can you wiggle your toes for me?" Idai lifted his feet. Kurenai turned to Ryu, "Be on guard. He has no control over his body."
"I didn't tell you to move your hands. Who is controlling you," Kurenai asked. The boy lifted his arms like a puppet. He started to stand. Kurenai's heart started to race. He was still under hypnosis. She ordered him to remain seated.
"No," Idai said in a deep threatening voice. His eyes opened. Idai's orange eyes had changed. They were now black. "I am not Idai," he said as he started to move towards the long, raven-haired woman and the boy with spiky hair.
"Oh, no. He's going to attack Kurenai sensei and Ryu," Yanagi said as Idai's face became elated. He smirked at the two in front of him. Yanagi saw him reach for a kunai. He looked at it, his eyes examining the ninja weapon.
"I like ninja from the hidden leaf village. They don't die so easily as the villagers," Idai said. "It's kind of thrilling." He ran at the dark haired woman.
Daiya ran straight at Idai. He had to stop him! Daiya threw himself at Idai's side, causing the older boy to get off balance and slam into the wall. He pinned Idai against the wall with all of his strength. The face looking back at him was not his friend. "Who the hell are you? Why are you in Idai? Give him back to me!"
Ryu was protecting Yanagi. He was in front of her in case Idai, or whoever he was, got past Daiya. She watched as Idai laughed sinisterly at Daiya.
"Aw, that's sweet. You like this little sound-nin, don't you? I like his body a lot. It lets me kill. Would you like to be next, lightening bug? I know what he calls you," the person inside of Idai said. "I know the real reason he came back, too," the voice taunted. "He loves you – that's why. You mean more to him than his own sanity," the voice said as it continued to laugh as Daiya started to panic.
"I wonder what will happen if I hurt you. Do you suppose Idai will go insane? Will I finally get his body then? I'm tired of waiting for it," he said as he tried to slice at the boy with the kunai. The other boy in the room pulled the boy back. He laughed as he watched them all. They were afraid. He was enjoying this game so much.
"When I snap my fingers, you'll wake up, Idai. One… two… three," Ryu said as he snapped his fingers when Idai started to come towards them. He kept his arm around Daiya. Idai's eyes started to change from black to orange. Ryu sighed relief. Ida was looking at the kunai in his hand.
"What was I doing? Why are you all looking at me like that," Idai asked. He noticed Ryu was holding Daiya back. Yanagi was watching him with wide eyes and Kurenai was in defense stance. "Oh, no." Idai caught on to what was happening. He moved back. "I can't stay here," he said.
Kurenai blocked the door. "No, Idai. You must stay here. It wasn't you that did it. We have to find out how to get the other person inside of you to leave. You must trust us."
Ryu turned Daiya around to check on him. He pressed his hand to Daiya's collarbone to stop the bleeding. Idai had managed to get him, but it wasn't bad. The vest Daiya wore was heavily padded. It had protected him. "I'm still going to try for you, Idai. You're my friend, too."
"I hurt Daiya…?" He tried to get past Kurenai again. She forced him back. He wanted to end it all. The one person he wanted to protect and he had injured him. Idai sunk to the floor defeated. "Kill me. Please," he begged Kurenai. She was watching him with a horrified expression on her face.
"No, Idai," Yanagi screamed. She threw a shuriken at the kunai in his hand as he attempted to bring it down upon himself. The kunai went across the room. It lodged itself in the wall. She ran to him and looked up into his face as she slid on the floor. He matched her gaze. Yanagi put her hands on his face. "Don't do that, Idai. Don't give up. I know it's hard. I know you've been through more than we can imagine, but please don't take yourself away from us. It's not just Gai sensei that is trying for you now. It's all of us. We love you so much. We want to help you. we won't ever give up on you. A scratch is not going to stop Daiya."
"No, only Sasuke sensei can do that," Ryu said smiling at Idai. He crouched beside the boy. "We will continue to help you. Hurting yourself will make everyone around you very sad."
Yanagi turned her head to look at Daiya. "Daiya, I know I wasn't supposed to tell you this, but we're going to be late for your surprise party. I didn't expect things to turn out this way. It only proves that I need to think more of the consequences."
"I'll stay with Idai until he's calmed down," Ryu said. He noticed Daiya was searching Idai's frame for an answer to it all. Ryu rose to walk his mother and Yanagi out of the apartment.
Daiya approached Idai. He crouched in front of his best friend. Idai's eyes were averted. He was ashamed. "Can you look at me?" Idai turned his gaze towards him. "I meant what I said earlier, Idai. You are the best birthday present I've ever received." Before Idai could question him, he leaned in to kiss Idai on the cheek. Daiya wrapped his arms around his friend's neck. "I told you a long time ago, I would protect you. That still holds true." He let go as he rose to go. Ryu was standing at the door keeping an eye on them.
Once Daiya left the apartment, Ryu sat in front of Idai. He put his hand on the boy's head to rub gently as Idai blushed. "Daiya has tried to escape the village to find you. He cares for you deeply. If you truly want to be with everyone again, then close your eyes."
Idai looked up at Ryu not understanding. He raised a brow. "Ah, Ryu," he said as the genin put his hands over his eyes. Idai saw blackness.
"Concentrate on nothing. Let everything inside of you wash away as if a river was cleaning your body. There is no anger. There is no laughter. There is only you inside this world. Find yourself in it," Ryu said softly as he leaned towards him. "Concentrate on your inner self. Imagine it lifting up and out of the darkness it's been in for so long. Guide it to the light where we are. If you can find the light inside yourself, Idai, we'll have a better chance of helping you," Ryu said as he took his hands away.
Idai looked up at him gently. "Why are you nice to me," he asked as Ryu glanced at him.
"Probably because I like you, you goofy, hyperactive kid," Ryu said. He started to stand. "Come on, we have to get you freshened up if you're going to make a grand entrance at Daiya's party," he said bowing.
Idai stood slowly. He followed Ryu into the bathroom where he would wash. It felt good to be home. As Idai left the living room, he felt as if he was leaving some part of himself behind.