Fun Fact: I have a huge, overarching outline. As I go, I do more detailed outlines for specific arcs. The closer I get to writing said arc, it gets broken down and outlined as individual chapters.

Chapter Twenty-Four - Frondescence

[frondescence—noun. 1: leafage; foliage 2: the process or period of putting forth leaves, as a tree, plant, or the like]

"I thought I was gonna learn how to use a tanto."

"You will," Hayate said, nodding. "And I brought one for you to have. But you're starting with a wooden practice sword."

Naruto frowned. "But—"

"He's right, you know. I didn't use my actual tanto when I first started learning kenjutsu." I looked up from where I was sharpening my tanto. "You have to get the basics down before you actually start using a live blade. Just like how we used practice kunai and shuriken at first at the Academy."

"Exactly." Hayate held out the wooden sword again. "Well?"

Brow still furrowed, Naruto took it. He squinted at it, weighing it in his hand. "Okay. What do I do with it?"

"I'll show in just a moment. Mirai, you're not actually doing any kenjutsu today. Instead, you're finishing toton."

I straightened. "Really?"

"I think you're ready. Go ahead and warm up with some hand drills, and I'll get Naruto started on some kata."

As he moved away, I got to my feet and stored my tanto back in its scroll. While stretching my hands, I also started stretching my chakra coils. Hayate rearranged the way Naruto was holding the sword. After he set Naruto up with some exercises, he turned to me. I bounced excitedly, grinning. "I'm ready."

He turned his head away for a second to hack out a cough. Then he smiled tiredly at me. "I know. Alright, show me the hand signs." He nodded as I showed him. "Good. Alright, careful, now. I want you to try to use the jutsu."

"Got it." I took a deep breath and slowly went through the hand signs again, shaping my chakra as I did so. And then— I made a sound of pain as I tried to push my chakra through tenketsu I'd failed to open. I shook out my left arm, wincing.

"That's pretty normal for a first try," Hayate murmured. "Take a moment and then try again. I'm going to check on Naruto."

I sat down and took another deep breath. Then I started the hand signs again.

Tsume opened the door and stared at me. Then she grinned. "Uzumaki! Come in. What can I do for you?"

Well, the Inuzuka seemed to like it when people were direct. With that in mind, I held out my paper to her. "You could sign this for me."

"Oh?" She took it with a frown. "What's this?"

"I'm collecting signatures to see how many clan heads would vote for my legal recognition," I said, holding out a pen for her as well. "I thought I'd start with you."

Tsume huffed out a hot breath. And then she started laughing. "I like you," she announced. "Alright, give it here." She snatched the pen from me and turned, putting the paper up against the wall so she could sign it. "So, where to next?"

"I'm talking to Sasuke-kun tonight. Then I plan to talk to Yosu and Shibi-dono tomorrow."

"Ah, good. Well, I know Shibi will sign. Can't promise for any of the others." She thrust the paper back at me. "Good luck, kid. I look forward to seeing that page full."

"Thank you." I carefully folded the paper up and stored it in my kunai pouch. "And I'll definitely need the luck."

I was halfway home when Kurama rumbled lowly in the back of my head. What about the Yamanaka?

I have a session with him tomorrow. I'll start laying the groundwork for a conversation, but I don't know if I'll bring it up then or wait until next week.

Kurama made a clear sound of disagreement but didn't actually say anything to that. I reached out with a shunshin, then another, and then another. When I landed in front of the apartment building, the boys were sitting at the base of the stairs.

Sasuke saw me first and hopped to his feet. "Neechan! You have to take me next time too!"

I faltered. "Um . . . I was just speaking with Kiba's mom. I think that would be boring for you."

"What?" He frowned. "Oh! No! Dobe was showing me some of the kenjutsu. I want to do that too."

"Oh." I lit up. "Sure! I, uh, I don't think Hayate will mind." I opened my arms to him as he hopped over to me in his excitement. Naruto joined him just a second later. I started slowly herding them towards the stairs. "Ke-kun, I need to talk to you about something."

"Um, okay." Sasuke's hand tightened on my arm. "Am I in trouble? I don't have to do kenjutsu if you don't want me to."

"No, no, no, that's not it at all. It's about something else. I need to talk to you about signing something."

"Ooh, ooh!" Naruto grinned, bouncing on his feet. "Can I sign something?"

I hesitated. "I mean, I can make something for you to sign, but I can't let you sign what Sasuke is signing."

"Oh." He faltered, shoulders slumping. "Okay. What is it?"

"That's a good question." I released them for a moment so I could unlock the door. When we were inside, I turned to face Sasuke. "I want to be Uzumaki clan head. For real. That way, I could say yes to Kakashi and Tsume giving us marks. But to be clan head, I need other clan heads to sign yes for me."

"Clan . . . heads?"

"Yeah." I smiled softly. "That's you, Sasuke. You're Uchiha clan head."

"Oh. But." He frowned. "I'm, I'm the only Uchiha."

I shrugged. "Kakashi is the only Hatake."

"Oh." He seemed to be focusing on something. Then he nodded. "Okay. What do I have to do?"

I pulled out the paper and a pen and moved to the table. "Here," I said, tapping the page. "I just need you to write your name."

"Okay. I can do that." He took the pen from me and carefully wrote out his name. When he finished, Sasuke hesitated. "Is that, is that good?"

I smiled. "It's excellent. Thank you, Ke-kun."

We made it all the way to dinner and Yosu still hadn't said anything I'd expected him to. He hadn't commented on our cancelled lesson from Tuesday, he hadn't asked me about the fight, and he hadn't said anything about the rumors going around about myself and the Inuzuka. Instead, as he finished up his food, he said, "So, what have you been working on?"

I looked up from my tempura. "Huh? Um, I finally did toton yesterday. And I've been doing some seal work."

"Oh? Tell me about that."

"Okay." I straightened, dusting my hands off. "So I'm making a timer seal. And I'm trying to figure out how to tag items in a storage seal."

He frowned. "Tag items?"

"Yeah. You know how if you put stuff in a storage seal, when you open the seal it all empties out? Well, I'm trying to make it where I can recognize the different things put in the seal and only pull out one at a time." I cleared my throat. "So instead of having a scroll for homework and having it sorted into a different seal by subject, I could have it in one seal and just be able to pull out one subject at a time."

"Can you do that?" he asked, sounding doubtful. "That doesn't sound like how it works."

"It isn't how it works. Not yet, at least. That's why I'm trying to figure it out."

"Huh." Yosu started cleaning up the food Konohamaru had left over, having long since fallen asleep. "Well, if anyone in Konoha could figure it out, it's you."

I beamed at him. "Thank you." And then I hesitated. "Hey, Yosu?"

"Hmm?"

I retrieved my paper. "Could you sign something for me?"

His gaze flicked to me, curious. Cautious. "Sign what?"

Something about the look in his eye made me nervous. I straightened. "I want to be legally recognized as Uzumaki clan head," I said firmly. "So I'm getting signatures from clan heads that say they'll vote yes for me."

He didn't say anything for a moment. Then he reached out. "Let me see." When I handed it over, he glanced across the page. "Hmm. Tsume has signed already."

I nodded. "She wants to be able to pledge me. And Naruto. But Hiruzen said no. If I'm legally recognized, she can pledge us."

"Right," he murmured. "He mentioned that." He nodded for a moment, pursing his lips. Then he sighed. "Alright, where's a pen?"

As I handed it over, I frowned. "Do you not . . . want to sign?"

He looked up and gave me a smile, taking the pen. "No, that's not it. Just . . . tired. That's all." Yosu signed his name and then handed the paper and pen back to me. "Are you done eating?"

"Almost." I stored the paper away and then took the last few bites of my food.

"Alright, I think we should call it a day. Konohamaru definitely seems done. How about you?"

"Um." I frowned. "Yeah, we can be done. Are you okay?"

"Hmm. Like I said, just tired." He packed everything up. Then he scooped Konohamaru into his arms. "Good luck with your list, okay? You deserve it."

"Thank you for being here," I murmured as I set out the snacks.

"Course." He shrugged, winced, and then sighed. "Not like I'm useful for much else, right now."

I looked up at him, wrinkling my nose. "That's not true."

"Hmm. Well, I did get this for you." Izumo carefully reached for his kunai pouch. He picked out a scroll and handed it to me. "I included a list of everyone that should be out of your Bingo Book because they died. And then all the new pages you need."

I stared up at him, eyes wide. "Really?" I breathed. "Are you serious?" I grabbed the scroll from him, looking at where he'd written my name out on the band. "That's— Thank you. I, uh—" I blinked in surprise and reached up to rub my stinging eyes. "Wow, and I'm making you come out here and work in return."

Izumo chuckled. "I don't mind. Really. After all, someone has to make sure you guys are okay today."

"Speaking of," Shikamaru butted in from where he was sitting a couple feet away. "Are we going to get this started? Looks like they're getting restless."

I glanced back to find that Naruto, Lee, Kiba, and Sasuke had devolved into a four-way wrestling match and that the others were cheering them on. I sighed. "Right. Okay, everyone! Are you ready?"

At that, they scrambled up and closer. "I want to go first," Sakura said firmly. She then faltered, looking hesitant. But then she nodded. "No. I want to go first."

I could see Izumo grinning at her from the corner of my eye. "Sure," I said. "Why not? Go ahead and try." Then I waved to everyone. "Give her some room."

At my direction, they backed up. Sakura moved so there was some distance between her and the snacks and then she took a deep breath. "Okay." She glanced nervously at Izumo.

"Loose," he reminded her.

"Right." She shook out her arms and settled into a stance, facing towards the lake. Sakura brought her hands up into a tiger seal and she murmured, "Suiton: Teppodama." She reared back. And then she spat a large bullet of water from her mouth. It slammed into the water with concussive force, sending out shockwaves in the lake.

I had to focus to keep my jaw from dropping. "Sakura," I said slowly. "Have you been . . . practicing?"

She glanced at me hesitantly. "Um, a little. I got tired of waiting."

"Ah. Well. That was . . . ."

"Really good," Izumo said, grinning.

Sakura beamed proudly at him. Then she turned a grin to the others. "Who's next?"

The others attempted their jutsu with mixed success, though only Naruto and Sasuke managed execution at the same level as Sakura. Kiba swaggered up to stand in front of the lake, grinning widely. He stretched, bounced on his feet, and then dashed through the hand signs. He shouted the jutsu, brought his hands to his mouth, and then—

And then the force from his misfired jutsu flung him backwards. Izumo gave a cry of alarm and started forward, but Kiba had already tumbled into Sai, sending them both to the ground. I scrambled forward. "Are you okay?"

Kiba blinked at me. Then he grinned. "That was awesome!"

I grabbed his arm and hauled him to his feet. Sai pushed himself up so he was sitting, wobbling on his arms. I crouched down in front of him. "Sai?" I asked. I looked him over and caught my breath. "Shit. Okay. How bad does it hurt?" I asked, reaching for his leg but stopping just before touching it. It was twisted in a way that it shouldn't be, and his pantleg was already staining red.

"I'm fine," he said, but his voice was hoarse and shaky and weak.

"That's not what I asked," I muttered. "Alright. Shikamaru!"

"Huh? Yeah?"

I glanced back at him and then to Izumo. "I need you to work with Izumo to finish up here for today, okay? I'm going to take Sai to get fixed up." I wavered on what to do for just a second before I slipped one arm under Sai's knees and the other behind his back. "You're going to have to work with me here," I said. "Hold tight." I lifted from my knees, pushing extra chakra through my muscles to stabilize myself. And then I activated a shunshin.

We landed on the very edge of Uchiha land. The extra weight made me falter for a moment. Sai's grip around my neck tightened. "Where are we going?"

"The hospital," I said flatly. "Where else?"

"What? No, no, no, no." He started shoving at me, squirming in my hold without any regard for his broken leg.

"What the— Stop that!" I stumbled down to one knee, struggling to keep ahold of him. "Sai! Stop!"

He froze, still hyperventilating. Instead of struggling more, he stared at me with wide eyes. "Don't take me to the hospital."

I frowned, considering my options. "Okay," I said slowly. "Fine. I won't take you to the hospital. But your leg still needs to be fixed, agreed?"

He stared at me some more. Then he nodded.

"Good." I straightened back up and activated a series of shunshin, hoping to get through them all without dropping him.

As we came out of the last shunshin, I stumbled, unbalanced, and fell forward. Sai hit the ground hard at the same time I did. Unlike me, he didn't make a sound. I gasped in surprise, muttering a curse. "Sorry. Sorry, sorry." I spent a few seconds checking him over again. And then I hauled him up again, turning towards the stairs.

It was a struggle to get him up the stairs. Then I had to set him down so I could unlock and open the door. "Alright, up we go." I half-carried, half-dragged him inside and laid him out on the couch. As I propped him up with pillows, I considered our options.

"Alright. So here's what we're gonna do." I bit my thumb, went through signs, and touched the ground. At the puff of smoke, I sighed in relief. "Perfect. Chisai, do you remember Tenzo?" Without waiting for a response, I said, "I need you to find him and tell him to come here immediately. He's supposed to be in-Village, at the moment."

As Chisai scurried away, I moved to Sai's leg. I hesitated. "I've never set a bone before, so you'll have to wait for Tenzo. So I don't want to— I'm not going to touch it, okay? But I can still help you. Water? Are you hungry?"

"I'm fine."

That pulled a frown from me. I nodded. "I'm getting you water." It only took me a moment to fill a glass with water and return to his side. "Here. Drink," I ordered.

He eyed me, then he obediently took the glass and sipped at it. All the while, he never looked away from me. There were still tears in his eyes, and he looked terrified. I was viscerally reminded that he was just eight. One of Danzo's dangerous pawns, yes. But still eight. With a sigh, I sat on the edge of the couch. "Okay, really. How bad does it hurt?"

"Fine."

I huffed. "Well, that's not an answer."

He suddenly wouldn't look at me anymore. Some of his tears escaped.

I bit my lip. "Do you . . . need a hug?"

Sai jerked his gaze to me in alarm, looking almost confused. Frowning, he shook his head.

There was a knock at the door and then fiddling with the doorknob. I glanced back, just barely able to feel that uncomfortable chakra. As the door opened, I said, "Thanks for coming."

"Well, Senpai would insist on me being here if he knew you asked." Tenzo paused awkwardly in the doorway, glancing across the scene. "You should take him to the hospital."

The glass hit the ground, spilling the rest of the water, as Sai lurched up as if to try to get away. "No! No hospital!"

"Okay, I know! I know!" I grabbed his shoulders and held him down. "I said I won't take you to the hospital, so I won't. Okay?"

Sai was breathing heavily again, glancing between me and Tenzo. Finally, he focused in on me again. "Who is that?"

"This is Tenzo. Sit back down before you make your leg worse." I helped him ease back down to his spot on the couch. Then I turned to Tenzo, taking a deep breath. "This is Sai. We can't take him to the hospital."

Tenzo glanced from me to Sai, expression unreadable. "Why not?"

I hesitated. The last thing I wanted was for Kakashi to find out that Danzo had snuck a spy into my life. "Because," I said slowly. "We just can't. I need you to trust me. You don't even have to do anything, if you don't want. Talk me through it, and I'll do it myself."

He cast a critical eye over Sai's leg. Then he sighed. "No. Fine. I'll do it."

"I've been hearing rumors."

I didn't say anything to that, watching as he moved his piece with what had to be deliberate slowness.

"It sounds like you've been speaking with some clan heads. Something I should know about?"

I considered my options and then moved a knight. "Should is a complicated word."

He didn't say anything right away as he made his move. Then, after he moved a pawn, he said, "Well, should I be concerned, then?"

"Maybe. Tsumi." I glanced at the clock. "Three minutes. You're not even trying anymore."

He smiled as he sat back, bringing up his pipe to light it. "I'm afraid your skills are simply too advanced for me. Another game?"

I stared at him flatly. Then I shrugged, shoving myself to my feet. "If there's no challenge in the shogi, then there's no reason for me to be here. I can easily get tea somewhere else."

"Mirai-chan, you and I both know that this was never about the shogi."

"I know." I shrugged. "But if you no longer want to put effort into the ruse, then I no longer want to be here at all." I turned to the door, only to pause. "You know, rumors exist for a reason. So if you're hearing something, it started somewhere." And then I stepped out—

—right into someone.

I heard the door slam closed behind me just before I fell back into it. I sank to the ground in surprise, blinking. There were so many chakra sources buzzing around the Hokage's Office that I hadn't even realized one was that close.

"Oh, I'm sorry! Are you alright, Mirai-chan?"

I stared at the hand that was being offered to me. I looked up past it. Then I grinned. "Iruka-sensei!" I took his hand and let him pull me to my feet. "What are you doing here?"

He raised and eyebrow and then looked pointedly at the stacks of folders he was holding in his left arm. "Mid-year assessments," he said simply. "Don't worry; you're doing well."

"I wasn't worried." I shoved my hands in my pockets and rose on my toes to try to get a look at the files. When he responded by shifting so I couldn't see the info, I glanced at him and innocently said, "I'm just looking out for my group!"

He looked unimpressed. "Your group is doing just fine, Mirai-chan. Trust me. Now." He nodded past me at the door. "If I may?"

"Oh, uh. Yeah. Course." I stepped out of the way and watched as he pushed his way inside, but not before giving me a little wave. "See you tomorrow!" I called after him. The door closed before I was even finished talking.

"Remember to breathe," I said quietly, watching as she shifted on the board in an attempt to stay balanced. When she steadied finally herself, I could see Natsu relax out of the corner of my eye. I glanced at her. "She's doing well," I murmured.

Natsu just nodded, not taking her eyes off her ward. Hanabi opened her eyes briefly, glancing down at the water. She sucked in a breath and snapped her eyes closed again. Her fists curled tightly on her knees and her breathing quickened.

"You've got it. Don't worry, okay? Just breathe."

Hanabi took one long, focused breath. Her shoulders relaxed as she did so.

"Uzumaki-san."

I glanced back to find Hiashi standing on one of the flower paths, his gaze focused past me on where his daughter was meditating atop the Hyuuga's pond. "Hiashi-dono. Can I help you?"

His gaze flicked to me. He nodded. "I would like to speak with you." Then he turned and started walking.

I got to my feet, glancing at Natsu. When she gave me a nod, I turned to follow Hiashi. I caught up to him and fell into step beside him. "Is there something I can help you with?"

"I believe it is more of what I can help you with, if I may be so bold." He paused at a plant, brushing his fingers over a half-eaten leaf with a frown. "I understand you are meeting with clan heads. I would like to know more." He withdrew a small red flag from within his robes and knelt down to place it in the soil at the base of the plant.

"Of course." I folded my hands behind my back. "I'm . . . collecting signatures," I said carefully. "Pledges, of sorts. Promises to vote yes when I go to the Hokage with the request to be legally recognized as the Uzumaki clan head."

"Ah." He straightened. His Byakugan fixed on me. "The Hyuuga Clan already recognizes you."

"Yes, I understand. And I'm grateful for that. Legally, however, I have no real standing. And, most importantly, no real authority over the lives of myself and my brother."

"Is this an immediate need, then?"

I considered that. "There are . . . obstacles. But speed is preferred, despite those."

"And has the recent incident involving the Inuzuka influenced this desire?"

I glanced to the side, thinking of how to phrase it. "Tsume-san's request to pledge us was denied," I said carefully. "I'd like to be able to overturn that."

"Yes, I can see why this is something you would value." He nodded sharply once. "Very well. Where do you need me to sign?"

"Oh, I—" I blinked, taken off-guard by the sudden agreement to do what I needed. I scrambled for the scroll and unsealed the paper. "Just here. Arigato, Hiashi-dono."

He signed and then returned the page to me. "I'll go attend to Hanabi for now. Thank you for your time today."

I nodded, storing the paper away. "Of course. Thank you." I bowed. Then I continued down the path as we parted ways. The guards opened the gate for me when I reached them.

A few short shunshin got me to the training ground, admittedly a good while before I was scheduled to be there. I settled down in a seiza.

Kurama and I were working out the details of the tag system when I felt chakra approaching. I opened my eyes, blinking. "Hi, Genma-nii."

Genma grinned and moved to stand in front of me. He crouched down. "Hi, Pumpkin. You're early."

"Hmm," I said by way of acknowledgement. I let him take my hand and pull me to my feet. "Where's Anko?"

"She's on a mission. But don't worry." He tapped his coin bracelet and gave me a little grin. "She's okay."

I smiled. "I'm glad to hear it."

"What are you doing?"

"Baking," I said, taking the tray out of the oven. And then I began working on moving the food over. "Now I'm packing."

"What is that?"

"Melonpan."

"But what for?"

I glanced at him. "I'm going to go talk to Choji's dad. I want him to sign my paper."

Naruto frowned. "Paper," he echoed. "Oh. The one you had Teme sign?"

"Yes."

"But why does Choji's dad have to sign it?"

"Because," I said carefully, covering the basket of food with a cloth. "If I get enough signatures, then I'll be . . . more in charge. And then we'll be able to do things, like get Hatake marks from Niisan."

"Oh." Naruto rocked on his feet for a second. "Can I have one?"

I sighed, giving him a smile. "Not of these, okay? I'll make some more tomorrow. But there should be some leftover bean buns, alright? Share those with Sasuke. I'll be back later." I picked up the basket and moved to the door. "Bye, Ke-kun!" I called.

I got a loud farewell from Naruto and a more distant one from Sasuke. Then I pushed my way out of the apartment. I chose to walk to the Akimichi compound instead of shunshining, just to be on the safe side. The last thing I wanted was to accidentally drop the food. I knew that my melonpan was nothing compared to typical Akimichi delicacies, but this was one meeting that I didn't want to go to empty-handed.

And then I was standing in front of the Akimichi gates, bracing myself for the conversation to come.

One of the guards eyed me for a moment. And then she prompted, "Name and intention?"

I nodded, clearing my throat. "Uzumaki Mirai. I . . . would like to speak with Akimichi-dono, if I could."

The guard held up a hand. "Stay here." She moved through the gate and into the compound.

I rocked back and forth nervously as I waited. Finally, the guard returned. She opened the gate and stood just inside it. "This way."

I nodded and moved to follow her as she led me up to the main house. She took me through the large hall, where I'd dined with the clan before, to a door at the other end. The guard opened the door. "Sir, here she is."

Choza was sitting behind his desk. He motioned to the chair across from him. "Go ahead and take a seat. Thank you, Aika."

The guard nodded and left the room, closing the door behind her. I stepped forward and took a seat. "I brought melonpan," I started with.

"Ah, good." He reached out and took the box from me. "I can enjoy this while you tell me why you've chosen to interrupt my work."

I swallowed thickly, curling my hands into fists where they rested on my thighs. "I would like to make my case for becoming the legally recognized head of the Uzumaki Clan in exchange for your signature as a promised affirmative vote for when I bring my case before the Council. As an Uzumaki, I have a rightful claim not only to Uzumaki assets in Konoha, but to the remains of Uzushiogakure as well. That would, in fact, give me access to the entire Uzumaki fuuinjutsu archives, currently unavailable to anyone, Konoha included. As clan head, I would be able to access the library on the behalf of the Village."

"On behalf of the Village," he echoed. "Don't feed me that line. Why do you want this recognition?"

I caught my breath. Then I cleared my throat and squared my shoulders. "Inuzuka Tsume's request to pledge Naruto and myself was denied by the Hokage. I would like the authority to grant it."

Choza stared me down, reaching for another bun. As he ate, he didn't look away from me. I shifted nervously, curling and uncurling my fists.

And then he burst out laughing.

"There's no reason to look so scared!" he yelled, clapping a hand to his chest. "I'm more than happy to sign! You've proven your merit in your defense of the Inuzuka. And besides all of that, I trust Shikaku's judgment. He wouldn't so much as let you breathe the same air as his son if he didn't think you worthy of his trust. What do I sign?"

I scrambled to unseal the paper. "Here. Thank you, Choza-dono." I slid the sheet across the table.

"This benefits Konoha, which in turn benefits my clan," he said simply. He held the newly signed paper out to me. "You should stay for dinner. Choji would be thrilled." He nodded to the door. "He's practicing his doton in the training yard with Chiki. I'm sure they'd like company."

I smiled. "I'd be happy to join them."

"Who's left?"

"Inoichi, Niisan, and your father. And then two more votes from . . . somewhere. Though I have an idea there," I murmured, tapping my pen on the desk. "Not sure yet."

"What is it?"

I shook my head. "I need to have it more developed before I talk about it."

Shikamaru huffed, crossing his arms and slumping down in his chair. "Well, fine, then. We can talk to my dad tonight."

"After training," I pointed out. "We have kenjutsu training with Hayate. It'll be Naruto's second session and Sasuke's introduction."

"Will there be shade?" he asked.

I squinted at him. Then I sighed. "Yeah, you can come watch. And then we can go talk to you father afterward."

He nodded. Then his gaze flicked past me. "Morning."

I glanced over my shoulder to find that Sai was standing at the end of our row, just an empty chair between us and him. I smiled. "Sai! You know, I looked for you yesterday so I could check on your injury like Tenzo said, but I couldn't find you."

"Ah," he said in response. He dropped his gaze to the empty chair. "Could I sit here?"

I blinked. "I haven't stopped you before."

"I know."

"Oh, well. Sure. As long as you let me look over your leg." I glanced towards the front of the classroom, where it looked like Iruka was getting ready to start. "During lunch, I guess."

He nodded, sitting down. "Okay."

Shikamaru leaned forward to look past me at Sai. "How you feeling? Leg looked pretty nasty before."

Sai glanced at him. "I'm fine." And that was all he said about it.

As Iruka began class, Shikamaru and I switched to studying our folder for the week. Sai, meanwhile, sat ramrod straight in his seat and didn't move an inch. When lunchtime came around, Shikamaru was actually the first to his feet. "Hungry?"

"Always," I responded, sealing away my things. "We'll catch up with you later, though. I need to check Sai's leg over." I waved Sai out of the row ahead of me. I moved to the front of the classroom. "Iruka-sensei? Could Sai and I use your office? He hurt his leg during training over the weekend, and I would just like to check it over."

Iruka frowned. "Of course. Sai, do you need to sit out of physical training today?"

"No."

"Yes," I countered immediately. "That would be best."

Sai glanced at me with a frown. But then Iruka nodded. "Go ahead."

I beamed at him. "Thank you! This way, Sai," I said, reaching for him but then thinking twice. I led the way instead. Once we were in Iruka's office, I waved him forward. "Roll up your pant leg. Let me take a look."

"He's good," Shikamaru noted.

"Yeah. He's probably going to end up better than me," I said proudly. "Sasuke, too."

"Maybe you just weren't meant for kenjutsu."

"Maybe you were," I countered. "Next time, you can train with us instead of just watching." I tilted my head to the side. "Or we should just bring in more bukijutsu to our Study Group."

"Maybe you could expand your bukijutsu interests and leave the rest of us out of it," he said, yawning.

"I have been interested in seeing what Saisu can show me about his kusarigama." I straightened as we stepped onto Nara land. "Your dad's in the shogi house."

"Well," Shikamaru said, hooking an arm around mine and moving me forward, "let's go say hi." He dragged me to the door of the shogi house. "Touchan."

Shikaku glanced up, pausing in putting the shogi pieces back in place. Then he looked back down at the board and continued. "Shikamaru, I was expecting you back earlier. Mirai-chan, why don't you sit down and have a game with me?"

I nodded and stepped forward. Shikamaru let go of me and claimed a spot on the floor to watch. I sat seiza, and Shikaku motioned for me to go first.

We were three turns in when Shikaku broke the silence. "I'm assuming you're here because you want my signature."

I froze. I glanced at him, but he was still looking at the board. Clearing my throat, I moved a general. "Yes," I admitted.

"Very well. Hand it over."

I blinked, looking up again to find that he was holding a hand out. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see Shikamaru straighten. I scrambled to get the paper. "Arigato," I said, handing it over to him.

He picked a pen up out of nowhere and wrote out his name. Then he handed it back to me. "There."

I took it hesitating. "Um, actually, since you're— Well, I need two signatures from you."

"I know. I sighed as Jonin Commander because I think it's a good move for Konoha." He tilted his head to the side. "I'm not sure it's a good move for my clan."

"Touchan?" Shikamaru asked, frowning. "So you're voting no?"

"Not just yet," Shikaku said, looking sideways at him. "For me to sign as clan head, I need to know that it benefits the Nara specifically, not just the Village in general." Then he switched his stare back to me. "We can both do some thinking about it in that regard." He moved a pawn. "Tsumi. Now, let's go inside. Yoshino is making some tea."

"Why the desperation?"

"It's not desperation," I shot back.

"Fine," Inoichi conceded. "Perhaps not desperation. Maybe that was the wrong word. How would you put it?"

I considered that. Then I lifted my chin. "I know what I want. Is that so bad?"

"Tell me why," he prompted. "Political power is not the usual desire of a usual child."

"Usual," I echoed.

Inoichi sighed. "Yes, I see my mistake in using that word. If you would please, Mirai-chan."

"Right." I laced my fingers together, frowning down at my hands. "I want you to imagine for a moment that you're a child. You have no control, no authority, no say in anything. You have no parents and two brothers to look after. There's people you loved who are gone. And when there are others that want to be able to call you family, you're told they can't. Because the person in charge of you doesn't see you as a child. Instead, they see you as a politcal piece. A pawn." I looked up at him. "Imagine that. And then think over if you really need to ask me why I want these signatures."

Inoichi watched me evenly for a moment. "I understand. However, this is more than asking me to approve you having authority over yourself. Or your family. This would give you authority in the Village. Over others."

"Fine. Okay, I can do that." I squared my shoulders. "I'm going to be a shinobi. I'm strong, and I'm only going to get stronger. I'm a jinchuuriki. I'm an Uzumaki. I'm one of the last two legal Uchiha. It's in the Village's best interests to keep me in the Village. I think that the Village is the best thing for Naruto, but if it's the Village itself keeping Naruto from his family . . . ."

The Yamanaka watched me darkly. "These are dangerous waters, Mirai. That sounded uncomfortably close to a threat."

"Not a threat," I stated. "Just pragmatic reality."

"Give me the paper," he murmured, holding out a hand. "You're like you father. And that might be just what Konoha needs most."

"Is that bread?" Sasuke asked, watching as I carefully took my baked goods out of the oven.

"Pumpkin bread!" I said cheerfully.

"Can I have some?" he asked hesitantly. "You wouldn't let us eat any of the melonpan."

"I made two loaves." I got the second out of the oven just before I closed the door with my knee. "That way, you two can eat one yourselves. So long as you leave the other one alone."

"Really?" Naruto asked, popping up from his spot on the floor and coming over. "What's the other one for?"

"I've giving it to someone." I cut off two slices from the first loaf and put them on plates for the boys. "What do you think? Careful. It's hot."

Naruto poked at his. Then he wrinkled his nose. "Can we have forks?"

"Sure." I got a couple out and handed them over.

The boys cut into their bread, blew on it, and then took bites. Sasuke's eyes widened. "I really like it," he mumbled, shoving in another mouthful.

I winced. "Isn't that hot?"

"Worth it!"

I laughed. "Alright. Well, that's good, then." I turned and transfered the untouched loaf to the bamboo breadbox I had waiting for it. I tucked the card in alongside it. "You two enjoy that, then. I'll be back later."

"Where are you going?" Naruto asked, frowning as I moved to the door.

I grinned. "Taking this to a friend." And then I escaped. I sealed away the pumpkin bread for safety and then shunshined my way to Genma's house. I paused in the alleyway, taking a deep breath. A few hand signs and a pulse of chakra and I'd completed toton. I straightened and looked in one of the house's windows just to be sure. When I didn't see my own reflection staring back, I grinned.

Genma had a lot of security on his house. A lot of security. Between that and his insistence on how little people should know about him, I was getting concerned about his paranoia. When I'd finally removed the last layer from the window, I stopped and listened carefully. I could hear chakra somewhere in the house, but I couldn't tell if it was Genma's, Anko's, or someone else's. Whoever's it was, it was calm and even. They were sleeping.

I slid the window open, thanking the fact that the remaining security seals were ones that I could feel Genma had adjusted to accomodate me. And then I crawled through onto the counter. I moved to climb down, but then I paused. I could feel hollow chakra humming along the floor. I huffed. Of course he had the floor trapped too. I eyed the table, decided it wasn't work the risk of jumping to it, and took out my scroll. I unsealed the pumpkin bread. Putting the container on the counter, I retrieved the card from inside and set it on the top.

Suddenly, the hum in the floor was louder and my skin started to burn from the unexpected heat. A door slammed open. "Show yourself!" a harsh voice commanded.

Well, shit. "Sorry. It's just me!" I said, letting toton drop. "I just wanted to surprise you."

Genma blinked at me several times. And he closed his hand—the one that wasn't holding a kunai—and the humming from the floor disappeared. "Pumpkin?" he asked incredulously. His gaze flicked to his window. "What the fuck?" He moved across the room and closed the window. "What are you— What did you do to my security? What are you doing here? What—"

"Happy birthday," I interrupted, trying to stop him.

He stopped talking, but his breathing was still faster than I liked. His gaze flicked over the window again. After another moment, he turned his stare back to me. "What?" he asked blankly.

"Sorry." I sat down with my legs over the edge of the counter. I tucked my hands under my thighs and kicked my feet. "I wanted to leave my gift to surprise you." I shrugged. "Thought it might be a good chance to see how far I could get, too."

"How far— Shit, Pumpkin," he said, dragging a hand down his face. He looked so tired, and I started feeling guilty.

"I didn't mean to wake you up," I said softly, glancing at the clock. Nine in the evening. He must have been exhausted if he had already gone to sleep.

"No, don't—" He shook his head. "That was impressive. But rule one: always close the entry behind you." He reached up and cupped my chin. "And until you can hide it better, try not using chakra in someone's house when you're trying to hide from them. That's what woke me up." He leaned forward and kissed my forehead. When he pulled back, he was frowning. "Why were you using chakra? What are you doing here?"

"Like I said before, I wanted to leave your gift to surprise you." I leaned over and picked up the bamboo box.

Genma blinked as I held it up for him. His gaze flicked briefly up to mine before darting back down. He picked up the card and opened it, taking a moment to read it. The tiredness in his face was still there, but it softened. "Thanks," he mumbled. He leaned forward to kiss my forehead again.

I lifted the box up to my head so that he ended up kissing that instead. "You haven't even looked."

Genma pulled back in surprise, breathing in. "What is that? That smells good."

I pushed the box into his hands. "Pumpkin bread!"

"Ah. That's why it smells so good." He snuck in another kiss on my forehead. "Go ahead and sit at the table. I'll get us some plates."

I nodded and moved to get down. But then I paused and stared doubtfully at the floor. "Security's off?"

He laughed. "Yeah. Security's off."

Shikamaru captured one of my pieces. "You look dead."

"I am," I retorted, snapping a glare his way. When he just raised an eyebrow, I sighed and returned to studying the board. "I haven't been sleeping well."

"Well, if it's stress from getting signatures that's making it hard to sleep, maybe I can help out there. I had an . . . idea. Touchan said it would gain you his signature."

I sat up. "I'm listening."

"Right. Okay. So it's asking a lot, but it would get you more than just his signature. With it, you and Naruto could reveal your heritage and claim everything your parents left to you with the full backing and protection of the Nara Clan."

"Everything they left us?" I asked doubtfully. "What? A few coins?"

"Yes, money. And jutsu theory," he countered. "Weapons." And then he made sure to stress his next couple words. "Hiraishin kunai."

I straightened. "Okay, I'm listening. What is this big ask, then?"

"Once you had authority as a clan head, you'd become a Nara."

I frowned. "Okay. More like a mark from the Inuzuka or Hatake or more like the Uchiha, with it just being a legal standing?"

"Neither. My clan doesn't do pledges."

"O . . . kay? If your clan doesn't do pledges, then how does someone become a Nara if they aren't one already."

"Take your turn."

"Maru—"

"You're taking forever. Take your turn."

Huffing, I slid a pawn forward. "Fine. There. Now, how am I supposed to become a Nara?"

He responded by moving one of his own pieces. He cleared his throat. "Same way any non-Nara does. Same way my mom did."

I stared at him, trying to figure out if I was hearing him correctly. Finally, I very slowly said, "We're eight."

"Yes."

"Doesn't matter how old I am up here," I said, pointing at my head. "I'm not getting married at eight."

He gave me a flat, unimpressed look. "Betrothal is a legally binding agreement. It made my mom a Nara before she officially married one. And betrothals can last for a long freaking time."

I looked down at the board. "And . . . I get betrothed to a Nara and your dad signs?"

"A Nara?" he echoed. "I mean, I count as a Nara, yeah." When I didn't respond to that, he groaned. "C'mon, Soph. Take your turn."

I reached for a piece but then paused, hesitating. Finally, I said, "I'll have to think about it." I moved my golden general. "Tsumi."

I jerked awake, clapping a hand to my chest. My face ached from where it'd been pressed into the table and my back hurt from my contorted sleeping position. But it was the dark figure at the front door that claimed my attention. It stilled.

"Pup," a voice rasped. "Thank kami."

I rubbed my sore cheek, wincing when I felt the sticky ink on it. "Niisan?" I mumbled. "You're back?" I shuffled back in my chair, rubbing my eyes. "I thought you were supposed to be back tomorrow."

And then he was right in front of me, rough hands framing my face. I reeled back in surprise. "Niisan?"

"I heard about the fight and you were in the hospital and— You're okay," he sighed, leaning his forehead down on mine. I could feel him shaking. "You're okay. You're okay."

"I'm okay," I said in return, reaching up and gripping his hands. "What happened?"

He pulled back, twisting his hands to hold mine tightly. "What happened? You're asking me what happened? Kagutsuchi above, Pup, you always have me fearing the worst."

"I'm okay," I said again. "It was just a scratch."

"Just a scratch? Just a— Pup, please—"

"Hey, look. Listen." I gripped one of his hands tightly in both of mine. Then I pressed it to my chest, right over my heart. "See? I'm okay."

"Oh, kami," he breathed out, voice ragged. And then his hand moved from my chest to loop around me, pulling me forward into his arms. "I just— I need you safe. Please."

I gripped his shirt, leaning into his tight hold. "Okay. I'm sorry." I took a deep breath. "I love you."

He gave a heavy sigh. "I love you too," he whispered. And then he pulled away. "I'm sorry for coming here so late. I heard what happened, and I just needed to see you myself and—" His gaze flicked past me to the clock. "What are you doing up at three in the morning?"

"I wasn't up," I said, turning and gathering all my seal notes into a messy pile. "I fell asleep while working, that's all."

He frowned deeply. Then he sighed, straightening up. He leaned over and pressed a kiss to the top of my head through his mask. "You should get some real sleep."

I looked up, reaching out and snagging the hem of his shirt. "Don't go, Niisan! You can stay. I need to talk to you."

"It's too late to be talking. You need sleep," he emphasized.

"I'll get sleep." I hopped down from the chair and took his hand, pulling him towards the couch. "After we talk."

Kakashi's shoulders slumped, and I knew that I had won. As I sat down, he slid off his hitai-ate and shucked off the loose long-sleeve he wore over his masked shirt. He kicked off his shoes and then sat down as well. "What do you need?"

I settled up against him, raising my hand to press it against his Hatake mark and listen to his father's chakra. "Advice."

"Oh. That's . . . not necessarily my strong suit."

I glanced up at him. "What would you do if there was someone who needed you as a friend, but being their friend might be dangerous?"

His stare narrowed at me, sharingan open. "Dangerous? Mirai, what have you gotten yourself into?"

"Nothing," I said firmly. "Not yet."

"Mirai—"

"Kakashi, please."

He stopped short, eying me. And then his stern look crumbled. "I don't have to really think about it. I've done it before."

"Oh?"

"Yes. I chose to be Tenzo's friend. Even if it was one of my more questionable decisions, in terms of self-preservation."

"Tenzo?"

"Right. But listen, if there's something dangerous going on, I need you to tell me. Why would you ask that?"

I shook my head. "It's not important yet."

"Mirai—"

"Can you sign something for me?"

He stared at me. And then he pulled his mask down, and his expression softened in a sad smile. "Yeah. Anything you need, Pup."

Everyone else had long dispersed, even Izumo, and it was just the two of us left. When we finally cleared away the last of the charred wood from the Study Group's training, I cleared my throat. "I have an idea."

Shikamaru glanced at me. "An idea? Is this the one that you wouldn't tell me about the other day?"

"Yes."

"Are you going to tell me what it is now?"

"No."

He pouted. "Well, then what's the point of even bringing it up?"

"Because this idea would get me the last two votes I need. It would involve a lot more than a couple of votes, actually, which is why I need to spend more time working on it."

"Oh?" He frowned. "Actually, you need three more votes."

"Not exactly." I shoved my hands in my pockets. "I'm fine with the plan to get your dad's vote."

"You sure?"

"I need that signature," I said firmly. "So yes, I'm sure." Then I reached out and gripped his arm. "Ready, then?" Without waiting for a response, I shunshined us away.

When we stopped at the Nara Compound, Shikamaru immediately ripped away from me. "I hate it when you do that."

I grinned. "I know. Why do you think I like it so much? C'mon, where's your dad?"

Shikamaru straightened with a groan, glancing towards the shogi house. When he saw that it was closed with lights off, he shrugged. "Next best guess is in the house. Or you could look for him yourself."

I closed my eyes, listening. I frowned. "You know, now that I think about it, I've never felt his chakra."

Shikamaru frowned. "I thought you've felt everyone's chakra."

"Everyone's? Hardly. And even feeling it isn't the same thing as knowing it." I shrugged. "It's the difference between just hearing a whisper and knowing who's whispering and what their saying. I've heard Genma's chakra, yet I really don't know how to recognize it even though I'm around him all the time. But I don't think I've ever even felt your father's chakra at all. He must keep up some pretty good walls."

Shikamaru looked proud at that. "Yeah, that sounds like him. We'll have to find him the old way, then. Let's look inside."

Even as he said it, he lagged behind me as I jogged up the stairs and into the house. We came across Yoshino in the kitchen, working on dinner. "Yoshino-san," I greeted with a bow. "Do you know where Shikaku-dono is?"

She glanced at me, raising an eyebrow. "He'll take you calling that as more than a joke than something serious, you know." And then she pointed upward.

"Right." I blinked. "Thanks." I turned towards the stairs.

"No, this way," Shikamaru said, grabbing me and dragging me back outside.

I frowned. "Your mom said upstairs."

"No. She said up." He pointed upwards, just like she had. "Who do you think showed me that stargazing spot on the roof?"

I looked up, though I was only able to see the edge of the roof from our angle. "Alright." I moved to grab his arm again.

"Oh, no, you don't," he said, quickly backing away. "I can get myself up there, thanks." He moved and started to walk up the wall.

I rolled my eyes. "Right, okay." Then I jumped, landing on the roof ahead of him. I could see Shikaku lounging on the flat area at the back of the house, a cup of tea and a book at his side. I glanced back at Shikamaru, who was just now getting onto the roof. "Keeping up, Maru?"

He leveled a tired glare at me. "I hate you."

I was about to retort when Shikaku's level voice cut in. "Mirai. Shikamaru. What is it?"

I cleared my throat, stepping forward. Then I stopped, hesitating.

Shikaku sighed heavily, sitting up. "Ah, this is going to be a discussion, isn't it?" he asked, stressing the world in a resigned manner. "Very well. Sit. Both of you. I'm assuming you were told about the idea Shikamaru thought up?"

I moved forward and sat down seiza. "Told, discussed, thought about, and agreed," I said, squaring my shoulders. "Is there a contract I need to sign?"

"A contract?" he asked languidly, looking amused. "No. Word is bond. And the betrothal would only happen if you're legally recognized as clan head with this vote."

I started nodding, only to pause. "If?"

He raised an eyebrow. "My second signature brings you to ten, correct? You're still two short, and the only people left that can give you a vote are the council members. Kami knows Tsunade isn't going to come back for this."

I squared my shoulders. "I know. I'm working on it."

He eyed me. His gaze flicked to Shikamaru and then back to me. "Be careful," he warned. "Legal recognition means nothing if you aren't around to use it."

"I know."

"Uzumaki?" Tenzo asked incredulously. "What are you— How did you find me here?" he demanded, leaning out of his apartment and glancing both ways down the hall. "Did Senpai bring you?"

"No. He doesn't know I'm here."

His gaze snapped back to me. Previously when I'd seen him, he'd been well put together—hitai-ate, shinobi garb, well-rested. Now, his hitai-ate and accoutrements were nowhere to be seen and his mussed hair was a fine match for the bags under his eyes. His expression turned stoney and his stare sharp. "How did you find me here?"

I shrugged. "Your chakra is pretty easy to distinguish. We don't like it, remember?"

His expression flickered with something that was gone before I could identify it. "What do you need?"

"I need you to tell me everything you can about Danzo."

His eyes went dangerously wide. He reached out, snagging my arm and then dragging me inside. The door slammed, and the flare of his chakra activating his security stirred unease in my stomach. "Are you crazy?" he hissed. "We've already warned you away from him. Did you not listen to us?"

"I did."

"He's dangerous."

"I know. That's why I need you to tell me everything about him."

He straightened, frowning at me. After a beat, he said, "No."

"Why?" I asked immediately. Then I braced my jaw. "Is it because you won't? Or you can't?"

Tenzo let out a hot breath. "Both. I won't be a part of sending one of Senpai's favorite people to their death. Or worse."

"It wouldn't be my death," I protested.

"That's the or worse part of my statement. Whatever you're doing, I am not going to help you with it."

"I'm not asking you to help me with it; I'm just asking for information. What do you want in exchange for it?"

"You safe. For Senpai's sake."

I huffed. "Well, I'd be a hell of a lot safer if I had more information that I am without it. Danzo is forcing his way into my life anyway; I might as well be prepared."

He stared at me. And then he shook his head. "I can't."

"Why not?" I ground out, getting frustrated.

"Because I can't."

"But—"

Tenzo titled his head down and stuck his tongue out as far as he could. I could see the black across it. After a moment, he sighed and tiredly dragged a hand down his faced. "I can't."

I pressed my lips together. I nodded once. "Okay. Then at the very least, could I look at the seal?"

His shoulders slumped. "Fine."

"And . . . would it be possible to convince you not to tell Niisan about this?"

He eyed me. "I have to tell him."

"Not right away. Just give me . . . a month."

"Absolutely not. Three days."

"Three weeks."

"One week."

"Two weeks."

Tenzo paused, considering. He huffed. "Ten days. Take it or leave it."

I grinned. "I'll take it."

"Thank you for letting me do this, Iruka-sensei."

"Well, it was more of the Hokage's decision than mine," he said, obviously somewhat nervous. "You'll rejoin class later?"

I nodded. "If I'm back in time. I'm not exactly sure on the timeframe I'll be needing."

"And you'll be safe?"

"They're my summons. Of course I'll be safe." I rocked back and forth on my feet. "And you'll check Sai's leg for me today? And keep an eye on Naruto and Sasuke in class?"

"Of course."

"Good. Thank you." I glanced towards the wall as I felt scattered, loud chakra getting closer. "I should probably go now. Before everyone shows up."

Iruka nodded, brow creased with worry. "Good luck."

I grinned and bit my thumb. Already going through hand seals, I said. "I don't need luck. I know what I'm doing." Then I touched my hand to the ground.

It felt a little like when I'd first attempted shunshin. My chakra system ached as I got ripped forward. It hurt, hurt, hurt, hurt, hurt—

And then it was just hot.

I opened the eyes I hadn't realized I'd closed, squinting in the sunlight. I swallowed and worked my jaw, my throat and lips suddenly much drier than they'd been moments before. Everything was so bright.

"Summoner," someone rumbled. "Your arrival was expected."

I looked down. I grinned. "Tokage. For a moment there, I thought I'd done the signs wrong." I looked out across the expanse of craggy rock and then down at the river that cut through the center of it all. "This is the Canyon, huh?"

"Yes. Welcome home."