Chapter 10: Ripples of uncertainty

The rest of the day went smoothly for Kaza as he spent it with the Daimyo and Amara. They discussed investments in the Togusa lands and gathered information about the region. Kaza provided a detailed map of the lands, which he had meticulously created during his travels. This map included reports on the terrain and potential hunting grounds, which he used for his missions in the village.

Kaza also explained the progress on the temple, emphasizing how he had cleaned and organized it, making it operational with just a bit more work and modernization. He discussed the potential income the temple could generate and how it would contribute to the renovation of the temple grounds. Additionally, he provided detailed information on the local roads, their conditions, and areas requiring improvements due to weather concerns.

The day's meetings showcased Kaza's talents beyond the battlefield, highlighting his skills as an explorer, scout, businessman, and clan leader. These qualities set him apart from other landowners in the Land of Fire and further endeared him to Princess Amara.

After a successful day of discussions, the group gathered for dinner before parting ways. Kaza smiled and waved to Amara, feeling a sense of accomplishment as he headed to his room to relax. The weight on his shoulders had lifted, knowing he had gained the respect of the Fire Daimyo and the Princess of Fire, which would serve him well in the future.

As Kaza slowly removed his robes, he suddenly noticed a threat and swiftly dodged to the side, narrowly avoiding a kunai aimed at him. He quickly assessed the situation as a ninja attacked him, realizing that this was not an ideal time for a fight. Thankfully, his armor absorbed the initial blows, saving him from potential death. However, he was still knocked back by the force of the attacks.

His assailant was dressed entirely in black, concealing their identity with a mask and hood, leaving only their eyes visible behind goggles. Kaza found himself immediately on the defensive, as the attacker launched a relentless and deadly assault. He noticed the enemy wielding a knife, which they brought down towards him.

Thinking quickly, Kaza blocked the attack by drawing a kunai hidden in his sleeve. The two engaged in a close-quarters knife fight, trading blows as they struggled for dominance. Kaza sustained a cut on his chin that extended slightly up toward his face, leaving a distinctive mark. In response, Kaza managed to strike the opponent's shoulder, leaving a noticeable injury that could be used for identification later.

The enemy suddenly retreated, as if they had a limited window of opportunity to attack and either disable or eliminate Kaza. Shortly after the assailant departed, Ino entered the room and was met with the aftermath of a fierce battle, seeing Kaza with minor injuries and signs of a confrontation.

Ino had been thinking about Kaza most of the day, feeling a bit worried that the princess might steal any potential future chance she had with him. As soon as she saw his wounded face and hand, her concern deepened. She quickly looked around the room before her gaze returned to him.

"Now, Kaza, let's get these injuries taken care of. I'm sure they have some basic supplies here, or I can fetch whatever we need to treat these cuts before they become a bigger problem," she stated firmly, determined not to accept any refusal.

"So, what happened?" Ino asked as she began cleaning up the wound on Kaza's face, which was a significant cut and not something to be taken lightly. Though, in truth, no injury was ideal.

"Well, a person dressed in black attacked me, and we had a battle. It was pretty intense, and I managed to land some good hits," Kaza replied, trying to downplay the situation. Ino gave him a stern look.

"Kaza Togusa, I'm not concerned about how well you did in the fight. I'm worried about your safety. Winning a fight doesn't matter to me if it puts your life at risk. I can't bear to lose you," Ino said sincerely, emphasizing just how important Kaza was to her.

Ino smiled back at Kaza as she continued to tend to his wound, her touch gentle and caring. She appreciated his understanding and his commitment to being more cautious in the future.

"I know you will, Kaza," she replied softly. "And about the fight, you're right, it's strange that no one heard it. We'll have to be on our guard and figure out how they managed to sneak in and attack you without anyone noticing." Ino was determined to get to the bottom of this mysterious attack.

As she finished applying the antibacterial cream, Ino carefully bandaged Kaza's wound. "There, you should be okay now," she said with a reassuring smile. "Just remember, you don't have to face everything alone. We're a team, and we look out for each other."

"Of course, that's why I'm glad to have you as my best friend, Ino," he replied, his tone appreciative. After Ino finished tending to his cuts, he let out a silent sigh, his thoughts still lingering.

"Let me get the others, and we can talk about this and plan something out," Ino suggested, making her exit. She knew they were friends, but the uncertainty about her feelings for Kaza weighed on her mind. First, she had to deal with the romantic threat and rivalry presented by the beautiful princess, and now, the possibility of being friend-zoned left her feeling conflicted. It hadn't been the easiest day for Ino, but at least she had shared a meaningful moment with Kaza.

As Ino left the room, Kaza's thoughts lingered on her. He couldn't help but appreciate how deeply she cared for him, and her protectiveness towards him was both endearing and reassuring. In many ways, she was the ideal teammate and partner, impressing him with her strength and independence. However, he couldn't shake the awareness that he belonged to a clan with a history of short-lived males. His reckless nature could easily lead to his demise, and he didn't want to subject anyone, especially Ino, to the pain of losing him.

Meanwhile, Ino was also lost in her thoughts as she walked down the hallway. Her feelings for Kaza went beyond mere friendship, and she admired him in countless ways. However, she hesitated to push for more in their relationship. They were such great friends, and she feared that pursuing romance might jeopardize the wonderful connection they already shared. The looming presence of the princess added another layer of complexity to her emotions, making her wonder if waiting too long might allow the princess to make her move and win Kaza's heart.

A few minutes later, Team 7 entered the room, surprised by the events that had transpired and the fact that they hadn't heard any commotion. The group talked openly about what had happened, how the attack went down and how it was most likely an area jutsu, or genjutsu that prevented the noise from being spread outside the room.

"I managed to get a wound in on him," Kaza explained as they conversed. "It was to the shoulder, pretty deep. I lost a kunai to that guy, so if we find someone trying to conceal a possible injury tomorrow, I think we might be able to figure out who it is. Though, with that said, I don't think that person will show up for work because of that fact."

"Yeah, Kaza, you need to be prepared in case someone else attacks you. You've garnered a lot of attention with the impression you've made. They see you as a potential threat to the future of the land, someone who might jeopardize their status," Kakashi advised the young ninja.

The group continued discussing the situation, brainstorming ideas and plans to overcome any genjutsu meant to hide the truth. Naruto decided to bunk with Kaza to provide backup if and when another attack occurred. With that settled, the teams began heading back to their respective rooms.

"So, Kaza, I hope you don't mind me asking," Naruto began as he brought his belongings in and found a place to sleep on the oversized couch. "What's the deal with you and Ino? Even though I know Ino is pretty, the two of you seem more than friends?"

Kaza shook his head. "She's just a friend, Naruto, an important one, a best friend, similar to how you're friends with some people too. We work together really well, I'm sure it's nothing more," Kaza added as Naruto gave him a questioning look. The blonde ninja contemplated pressing the issue further but decided against it. He figured that the two of them would figure it out on their own; this complicated stuff was really complicated. How honest Kaza had been was questionable, but it seemed that Kaza wasn't even going to be honest with himself yet.

Ino sat on her bed, a thoughtful expression on her face, as Sakura settled down next to her. The room was dimly lit by a single lamp, casting a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Sakura started, choosing her words carefully, "Ino, I've noticed there's something going on between you and Kaza. It's more than just friendship, isn't it?"

Ino sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. She had been expecting this conversation. "Yeah, Sakura, you're right. It's... complicated."

Sakura nodded, her green eyes showing empathy. "I can tell it's complicated. But, Ino, you can talk to me about it. You know I've had my own share of complicated feelings."

Ino looked at Sakura, appreciating her support. "It's just that... Kaza and I, we've become really close. We work together so well, and I've come to depend on him in ways I never thought I would. He's my best friend, Sakura, and I don't want to mess that up by pushing for something more."

Sakura nodded in understanding. "I get that, Ino. But, what if Kaza feels the same way? What if he's just as scared to admit it because he doesn't want to risk your friendship either?"

Ino's eyes widened slightly at the thought. "You really think so?"

Sakura smiled gently. "I've seen the way he looks at you sometimes, Ino. There's something there, I'm sure of it. But neither of you will know for sure unless you talk about it."

Ino let out a sigh of both relief and frustration. "You're right, Sakura. I need to talk to him about this. I just hope I don't make things even more complicated."

Sakura gave her friend a reassuring pat on the back. "You'll figure it out, Ino. Just be honest with your feelings, and remember, I'm here for you no matter what."

Ino smiled at Sakura's support. "Thanks, Sakura. You're a good friend."

With that, the two kunoichi settled in for the night, their hearts a little lighter, knowing they had each other's backs in matters of the heart.