Chapter 65: The Selection
Writing
'Inner thoughts'
°Telepathic Communication°
Kankurō's POV
Shelving one of the documents I looked over at Gaara feeling that something was off since yesterday. Although quiet I could feel the dark cloud hanging over his head. Seeing how Temari was no longer here, I stopped what I was doing and went to lock the door. When I turned to look at my brother he was still deep in thought unaware that I had just locked the door. Letting out a sigh I went to his desk and asked him about it. "What's bothering you? Did the council say something again?"
Looking up he shook his head. He hesitated for a minute before the words spilled out, "If a woman finds you attractive it means she likes you, right?"
"It does…sometimes…" Confused by the question. I pulled a chair and sat down as he continued contemplating.
"So when we did it does that mean I was bad at it?" Letting out a big sigh he turned his chair away.
'Did it? He kissed someone!?' Thinking that's what he meant I spun his chair back around. "You did it!?" I whispered trying my best to keep my voice low.
His eyes widened and he looked away. "I did." He shyly confessed.
"When?"
"When the sandstorm hit." He admitted as his face flushed a bit.
"You-! You waited until I was out of the house." I grinned. Unable to help it, I nudged him to spill out more details. "So who was it? Was she cute? What's her name? Anyone, I know?"
"It was…" he hesitated looking guilty but soon he gave up the name, "Yukino." Saying her name he lowered his Kazekage hat hiding his face.
When he uttered her name I was taken aback. Suddenly Ryota's face popped into my mind as I remembered him giving us a warning years ago at some festival to stay away from her. Not only him but her father whose orders he was obeying. "Gaara… you really messed up, do you know who you're going to have to deal with?" I asked him as he stared at me with slight confusion. "Her father, and Ryota. But more importantly her father" I told him as we had only recently met the man. Although masked he gave off an unsettling aura one that felt almost inhuman. "You don't know how overprotective he might be, haven't you heard? The father is almost always the obstacle in a new couple's relationship if he doesn't approve. Forget about kissing one wrong move and he will tag along on every date." I imagined this as from that encounter he seemed protective of her. 'If Gaara really likes her I should prepare a gift to send. Then the next time he sees Gaara he will see him in a better light.'
"It won't matter. Yukino came to apologize after what happened. I don't think she wants to look at me anymore."
"Listen, you seem to be forgetting that Yukino was in a relationship before. One that ended tragically so I guess doing this with you must've felt weird for her. Who knows maybe she feels some guilt."
"…That makes sense." He said it in such a way that I felt insulted.
"I just don't know how to approach her after what happened."
Taking a moment to think something came to mind. "Remember those books she had? If she reads them then there must be something in them that she enjoys. The answer might be in there."
・・・
After sneaking into her room and borrowing the pervy books she left out in the open I returned to the Kazekage building. With the Icha Icha series Yukino was a huge fan on hand I hoped, that she would have written notes to help us as I was on my way to rendezvous with my little brother. With this important piece of intel to discuss a way to surrender her heart to him, I nearly teared up at the thought of him wanting to take the initiative. 'He's grown so much.' That thought fell apart as everything would go smoothly if it weren't for the old councilmen who always managed to ruin our fun.
The moment I entered the meeting room I saw Gaara holding his head as two councilmen sat across from him somehow already anticipating this as the location of our secret meeting. 'I knew I should've chosen the roof.' How they found us here I didn't know but those guys were like vultures just waiting for the moment we lower our guards.
"Gaara-sama, due to your last failed marriage we believe that it is time to consider other options." They said bringing up a binder with multiple profiles of different women they thought was best for him as if they didn't bring that same list last year.
"Didn't we go over this?" I spoke up for my little brother. Hiding the books behind me, I sat down and hid them under the table. "The first arranged marriage failed, what makes you think Gaara is ready for another so soon?"
Prepared for that question they gave their reasoning. "Well, we just wanted to remind Kazekage-sama that only an upper-class woman or an exceptional kunoichi with a strong bloodline would be worthy as his wife."
"What brings this up?" I asked since there was no warning this would be brought up again. Not so soon at least.
"W-well we think our choices would be much better than the foreigner that's been staying at your manor."
"Her reputation may be good among the medic-nin but she is not of Suna descent. Her teachings will just breed weakness."
Biting my tongue we knew the best was to let them tire themselves with all their yapping. "Wait…" Remembering something I raised a hand to shut them for a second. Looking through my pockets I found the letter that her two friends handed me when they dropped her off. A letter they claimed came from her father. Although I didn't put much thought into it and kept it in my drawer this whole time I by chance remembered it and brought it out due to my little brother's recent interest in her.
・
To Gaara and Kankurō, especially Kankurō,
Although not by blood she is my daughter. So you two must do whatever it takes to make sure she returns to her land healthy. However, if that isn't important enough for you to properly protect her, then read carefully what I write to you. She is the last of the noble line of the Uzumaki and therefore her village. In addition to this, she is from the esteemed Uzumaki clan who as you may not know dissolved due to tragedy in their homeland decades ago. However if what i say brings you some doubt you can make a request from konoha. They will confirm her clan, rank, and achievements. Though you should already be aware of her reputation from the war.
She is extremely precious not just to me but to the remainder of her clan who has regrouped. If any harm comes to her they will demand some recompensation but if she experiences death they will take up the offer your brother said before the Fourth Shinobi War started and take his head. An eye for an eye only then will they be satisfied.
In addition, if she leaves Sunagakure before she has had proper time to recover and she fails her trial as an heir because of it, the vixens that raised her will not take her failure lightly. Punishment will await her before she can reach her land. She can be stubborn so do try to stop her from leaving before she has healed. Even if she regains the ability to walk it does not mean her body has recovered enough to fight. Let her go once she can bring you and two other Jonin to submission.
Do not assume this is a joke, respectfully, Kamen of Inari
・
Reading the note out loud I could see the old men tremble with anger. "How dare they speak to Kazekage-sama that way!" They cried as if they heard the worst thing their ears could've been privy too. "We knew that woman was bad news."
Hearing this I held in my sigh. 'I saw their strange looks toward her but always assumed they would think it was impossible due to her punishment… Her punishment…' Remembering this very important fact I felt as if someone had thrown a bucket of ice on me. Looking down and then at my brother who was getting annoyed with the two council members I only felt... sad.
"As you both have heard from the letter she is of a noble line and she comes from a prestigious bloodline." Before they could speak he continued, for a moment i saw a small spark in his eye as he was struck by an idea. "The same clan bloodline as Naruto Uzumaki, the one who put an end to the Fourth Shinobi War. If you doubt her fighting capabilities I, along with the other Kage, can testify to her fighting prowess and medical ninjutsu capabilities." He said pushing back the folders in front of him. "I'm sure you two must've heard the nickname Sapphire Rose?"
Torn on what to do i didnt know whether to support him or side with the council. My gaze then shifted down to the books at my feet. Staring at them I closed my eyes. 'Why couldn't you choose someone else… I'm sorry Gaara.' Now her decision to push him away made sense. 'She was thinking of both of you.' Quietly resolving to respect her decision I knew I would have to do anything to sabotage his advances and make him give up.
"In the end, it doesn't matter if she meets all those requirements if she isn't capable of being a worthy wife to one with the title of Kazekage. The others have agreed to repeat the test in three days invite her we'll see how she fares." Standing up they thought they won as they smiled and picked up their files. Leaving the room I could hear them chuckle outside how there's no way a tomboy like her would ever pass.
Remembering Yukino's words I was confident that their dislike for her was one that lasted for years. "They don't know how much she's changed since then, she'll do good." I patted my little brother's back knowing that it would be biased and she would be firmly rejected from the possibility of being accepted. Going to the door I locked it and placed every book down in front of him. "Now this should give us an idea as to the kind of romance she likes," I said as I reluctantly handed over the books.
3rd POV
Returning from the lab Yukino felt something was off. Standing at the doorway for a minute she noticed the spot where her books would usually be. 'I doubt Gaara would read this, so it can only be Kankurō.' She thought. Having left her door open when she left to give it the illusion that she has nothing to hide she didn't think they would just walk in. Walking over to her weaving machine she took a seat and glanced at the chest beside her. She still felt the seal that the shrine had cast that could only open in response to her chakra. So there was no need to put a lock, everything was visually out in the open which left little to be curious about. Still, she was going to lecture the man about entering without permission.
Just as she was thinking that the door opened and the puppeteer entered, caught red-handed holding the very books that went missing. Crossing her arms she cocked her head waiting to hear his explanation.
"I-I…" He was racking his brain for a minute before sighing in defeat. "Fine… I just wanted to learn more about love…"
"Really? Didn't think that was the reason, to be honest… since you know this series is mostly smut." Getting up she took her books back and put them back. Opening a drawer she pulled out her favorite series. "On the other hand if you really want a mix of smut, heart-pounding love, and tragedy I would recommend this." She handed him the first novel. As he grabbed it she held on tight. "Listen next time just ask don't sneak in here and take my stuff. You should know where you can find me."
"I know. I know. I'm sorry for barging in… I could've waited a few hours to ask you."
"Good because if you don't I'll start switching your purple face paint for a viridian green shade."
"Alright… I hear you loud and clear." Standing there holding the book he felt he needed to ask now before he was kicked out. "Hey, Yukino did you know that there is going to be a selection between the noble ladies in three days?"
"Selection? No why? What is that for?"
"Well, a bunch of families will send their daughters to raise their reputation. You know how traditional the sand is… there will be a bunch of old-fashioned rules and traditions they need to follow to see if they were properly educated or whatever those old farts say. Anyway… if you want to join… do it and have fun don't take it too seriously. You aren't from a noble family from here so it shouldn't matter." He said going on trying to make the whole thing unappealing but in case she was interested to not take it too seriously.
Although he was hinting all that to her it bounced right off as she saw this as an opportunity. 'I wasn't raised noble but if I can learn from the nobles here it will be helpful for my future introduction to the nobility of other nations… Not only that if they're prominent families there is a high chance some of them are in the trading busines… the trading routes we csan gain if i make meaningful connection!'
"–some basic fighting for the kunoichi but if you don't want to join I get it, it's really boring."
"It's ok I'll join."
"You sure? If you choose to back out no one will blame you. There's still three days for it." As he made his way to the door he dropped the location and time before he left. Once out the door he walked to his side of the manor and stopped mid hall. Remembering the look on her face as he kept describing the super boring event he had already sat through a year ago, from the small glint in her eyes he could tell she had set her mind on going. 'Only one thing left to do… Make sure her turn is the last one and hope those vicious women pressure her out of there.'
Yukino's POV
After three days of preparing in my own room, I got up early and followed the routines I remember reading in books describing the life of those in the upper class. Adding soft flowering scents into the bath water I submerged my body in there and held my breath before rising and continuing the rest of the routine. By the time I was done, I was sitting in front of the vanity in a robe putting on moisturizer. Then I dipped a finger in the makeup powder. I added some pink to my eyelids and then a light blush to my cheeks. Getting some melted wax I put some on my lips before going to wash my hands.
Returning to the vanity I painted my nails a rosebud pink. Airing my hands for a minute I then grabbed a thin brush, dipped it in one of my vials and painted my lips. Staring at my reflection I could see my face glow as a smile nearly stretched from ear to ear. Bouncing happily I stared at myself for a moment more since it was not every day that I could dress up. It was fun and different.
Standing up I took out one of the scrolls and took out my outfit. A beautiful woven furisode with the right half being dark blue and the left white. Roses varying from light blue to dark blue covered the ends of the sleeves and became less as they went up and from the bottom of my dress, the same happened as there was a trail leading to my right shoulder. There were even some butterflies put here and there. Making a shadow clone I helped myself dress up. After the yukata and Furisode were put on and tied. A light blue obi-age wrapped my waist before a dark obi went over it. Then we moved to my hair tied it up and decorated it with flower accessories. By the time I was done, I had an hour to spare so to make use of the time I had a mini photoshoot having my shadow clone take the pictures of this beautiful furisode.
During all that a thought popped into my mind. 'Wait don't some noble ladies have at least one attendant by their side at all times?' Looking over at my shadow clone I had an idea.
・・・
By the time I entered the waiting room, I arrived a minute before the agreed time. To my surprise, there were a couple of people there already. 'Oh, these girls are good I'll note arriving early for next time.' Spotting an open seat near some bookshelves I headed for it with my shadow clone behind me, now transformed into a human version of my puppet Rei in a dull outfit.
°Hand me a book, please.° Holding out a hand my shadow clone handed me a book before resuming to stand by my side. As I opened the book in front of me I took a quick glance around the room seeing that almost all the ones present had an aid by their side. Wearing a small smile I stuck my nose up a bit proud of remembering that little detail.
Sitting quietly I pretended to read while eavesdropping into the conversations going around me. Mostly I heard conversations about which nation they got their makeup from and the places they visited for summer. Even so, information like this would be useful to expand our reach. Aside from that I spent a while fake reading and finishing my book after an hour with some ladies coming and going. 'Was my turn skipped? I swear if those with a higher standing go first then that means I may be here for a good while.' Complaining on the inside my face remained stoic.
Standing up I scanned the bookshelves again for another book to fake read. As I did I heard the door open behind me as another lady finished with their test. Hearing laughter as the woman joined her friends I found my book and sat back down in my corner.
"What a sad attempt to stand out." I heard the new woman snicker. As her friends joined in to laugh as well. "I know! Red is soooo tacky it's such an eyesore." Hearing the laughter I sneakily glanced around to see if anyone was wearing red. "Ugh if I was her I would have just kept it in my natural color even if it was common."
I then realized that I was the topic of their conversation. A part of me wanted to shrink into the corner and hide, and another felt the need to go charging to them. Taking in a deep breath I kept my mouth shut and eyes to the book ignoring them for now. If I acted out, there would be a chance of me getting kicked out. A few minutes passed and the girls, noticing I wasn't going to react how they wanted, turned their attention to the newcomer who just finished.
Looking glum a young woman with hay colored hair came in. The moment she spotted the group of women her hazel eyes turned to the ground.
"Well, well if it isn't Riko-chan. Did you fail miserably this time too?"
Hearing this my eyes turned up to see the group smile as they had found an easier target. The quiet woman seemed to shrink in size as she looked for the quiet corner that I had already taken. Although there were two seats around me the rest of the room offered more empty seats making it awkward for her to approach. Cornered and exposed the girl looked down and pressed her lips together to not give anything for the arrogant woman before her to use against her.
"Look at her acting tough as if she's worthy. We all know you wouldn't be here if it wasn't for your renowned family. After all… all you're good at right now is keeping your head down and working in the dirt with your plants."
"I work with the medic-nin too!" She spoke up in an attempt to defend herself.
Snickering another chipped in. "So what? It's not like you or your brother made a name for yourselves during the war. For a family renowned for their medical capabilities they haven't shown much in the last two generations, have they?" They said, breaking into laughter like a pack of hyenas.
Hearing I let out an exasperated sigh. Snapping my fingers we both knew what to do. My "lady in waiting" moved from her standing position and headed to the young woman who was on the verge of tears.
"Greetings my lady, my master couldn't help but overhear that you worked in the medical field. She wishes to speak to a kindred spirit over a cup of tea if you would like." My shadow clone gestured to me in the corner as I gave a small wave.
・・・
Chatting over our field I kept my eyes on the group of girls who began to think of a way to make me a target after ignoring them earlier. But back to the conversation before me, I learned that we shared a common connection, Botan.
"I didn't know he was your brother but now I look closely you guys do share physical characteristics. I must say that I'm happy to have him as a senior he's always making sure his team is on task and doing well."
"That's a relief. My brother doesn't talk much about work at home and our paths rarely cross at work even though we share a similar field."
"You should drop by some time–"
"How repulsive. How could they allow a nobody to attend?"
"I know! Do they no longer follow tradition anymore? How could they consider her a noble like us?"
"Yukino." I heard my name being called as it was now my turn. Setting my cup down I stood up and fixed my clothes before walking past the group. As I did I made sure to freeze their long gowns to the floor.
"I don't know what could be called noble of a rude woman like you." I snickered. "But I guess your family is all you can lean on."
"Why you–!" She quickly stood up, tea cup in hand only to be jolted back by her frozen dress and splashed by her own tea.
"Not to mention your shameless attempt to gain attention. Tsk tsk."
Leaving the room I could hear the girls arguing and yelling as they tried to pry their dresses from the ground. With a smile, I looked forward to surpassing them in whatever test they gave me.
3rd POV
Being led to the 'test room' Yukino met the two brothers halfway.
"Yukino?" Gaara said with surprise as he wasn't told whether or not she accepted.
"You look angry," Kankurō said shaking his head. "Listen if you want to leave that's ok. We'll explain to the council–."
"My do you have such small faith in me?" Yukino said with a sweet smile on her face. Not knowing if she was already in the exam she played the part of the perfect Yamato nadeshiko. °If you guys needed someone to pass the selection to avoid marrying you could've just said so! Don't worry after how those girls acted I wouldn't want to be married to them either.° Cutting the connection she gave a courteous bow and continued to the room. But before she could reach the room she heard a familiar voice call her name.
"Aiko-chan?"
Flinching at the name Yukino turned her body to see the extremely elderly council member who called her by her old alias. Seeing how much he had aged she was reminded of his sister and their past interactions when she went by that name. 'So much time has passed…' Bowing her head she replied, "Ebizō-ojiisan… It has been a long time… Uhm I heard what happened to Chiyo-baasan… I'm sorry I couldn't attend."
"So you know?" Coughing Yukino reacted reflexively and walked over to check. "I'm fine dear, its just my age catching up to me…" With a smile he returned to what they were talking about before his cough. "If she heard you say that she would've puffed up her chest upset but I know she would be happy inside. Aiko… no it's Yukino now, isn't it. To be honest it is hard to believe that it's you."
"Well I'm glad you think she wouldn't be so upset that is some relief… As for me well I will say I have grown a lot in height and back then believe it or not I dyed back then… what I'm surprised about is… how did you recognize me?"
"When you get to be my age you learn to trust your gut more," With a smile he looked at her face, "and when I saw your eyes only one person came to mind… and that was the young kid my sister used to train." He said showing a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Tell me what happened between you both?"
"I'm not too sure what happened but I can only tell things from my side… back then I chose to quit puppetry. At the time I had noticed that my other skills had begun to decline as it was becoming my sole focus. Although I had a knack for it I knew I was better at other things. Puppetry was just fun for me, a hobby I could do."
"I see… Hah…" He sighed shaking his head. "That hag she's so stubborn… I would tell you the story but you will get points deducted if you're late. Come. I'll lead you in." He said walking as fast as the oldest elder in Sunagakure could.
"I appreciate it thank you… after this can we share a cup of tea together?" She extended her arm out so he could grab it.
"Of course my dear… we have years of catching up to do." Taking a hold of it they walked each other to the room.
・・・
Standing in the middle of the room she gave the room a quick glance and noticed that one of the councilmen's wives was in the room with their newborn. 'Shoot they will definitely use them against me if they cry.' As she thought that she was given a run-through of why she would be going through the tests. Blood lineage, skill, and reputation. "Do you understand?'
"I, Yukino Uzumaki, understand."
Giving a courteous bow she went to the station where the tea was set up for her to make. Having done this since childhood she began to make it quickly before serving it from the oldest to highest rank and then to everyone else in descending order.
Once she served everyone she went to the stage to give them a small performance as part of the test. Looking at all of the instruments available she saw the koto but passed it up for the shamisen since it was more similar to the stringed instruments used here in the land of wind.
Gracefully taking a seat facing her crowd she held the bachi before playing the quick rhythm of senbonzakura. Although years had passed since she last played her muscles remembered clearly how it worked. Eyes closed she remembered all the times she played and reminisced for a while before the song came to an end.
Finishing she gave a courteous bow and scanned the surprised council's face through her bangs. Hiding her smile she stood back up and placed the instrument back in its place. "I hope you enjoyed my performance. I am ready to move to my next task if you would allow." She spoke softly and elegantly making some of them question if the red-haired woman before them was really the young girl from so long ago who knew only of the life of a shinobi.
"Splendid performance." one of the new faces of the council said clapping in appreciation. "Just as you speak I hear grace in your music as well." The new face, Masahiro, laughed approvingly as he was well-versed in the arts much more than those present who were raised as shinobi. "Now knowing you aren't born and raised here I'm going to give you a simple quiz."
The quiz was everything but simple as it went on for half an hour as they asked all sorts of questions from taxes on products from other lands, the price of a cow, facts about the previous Kazekage, to how much a high-quality Oud (instrument) would cost.
"Fascinating." They clapped. "I'm surprised you got everything right, although the price of the oud was a bit off but it's understandable since the prices can vary based on demand."
Hearing this Yukino only nodded while inside she was relieved she was able to get that much right. Her time here gathering some info from the local markets came in handy and reading the councils' minds were helpful when they thought of the answer.
"You are too hasty to approve. There are yet more tests she has yet to pass to see if she can even be worthy." Hiraku a new face as well to the council scolded the slightly younger man. Turning to the young red-haired woman he said. "Since you are new you must not know but the young ladies before you grew up learning to dance but have you?"
"Sorry to interrupt," Kankurō spoke so as not to anger them too much. "But are you looking for a geisha or a lady?"
"I agree. Dance has failed to be part of the selection for the Kazekage's wife since the first Kazekage's time. It may be done for the long-standing families here but for to be the Kazekage's wife it is irrelevant." Ebizō spoke in agreement with Kankurō.
Standing to the side as still as a statue Yukino stood without saying a word letting them decide. Whether it was dance or not she was confident she would have done well. 'Stand and look pretty…' She repeated in her head.
"...fine but tradition must be held she must at least know how to cook. You cannot deny that that is not important." Hiraku scoffed since they wouldn't accept his suggestion of flower arranging after his dancing suggestion. When he said that nobody argued since they couldn't risk the Kazekage's future children eating food from someone unknown. The less exposure the better to decrease possible assassination attempts.
Hearing this Yukino spoke and connected to their minds, "Alright. May I ask what your palettes are?" As they answered she heard what they truly craved and made note of it in her mind. "Alright, I will be done in less than an hour. Excuse m–"
"There will be two people watching in the kitchen we can't risk the possibility of you purchasing the food or doing anything to it." Takamoto a new face as well spoke on the side opposing her.
"I understand," I said showing nothing on my face other than a small fake smile.
Yukino's POV
Entering the kitchen I got to work. Seeing the two people watching me I asked. "Am I allowed to buy meat as long as it still requires further preparation for the dish?"
"Yes."
"Perfect." When they said that I ran out and hid. Creating a shadow clone I sent it to a place I knew that had a vertical spit. °Buy the whole thing.° I told them before they ran off to get my meat.
Returning to the kitchen I began to prepare everything else I needed. As I cooked I made sure I could see the attendants in some way, through reflections, or directly I didn't put it past the council to not plant some people to sabotage what I did in some way. I even cleaned the plates, pots, and utensils that were here for me to use. However, for my worries, they never tried anything and I was able to cook several dishes of food without any issues.
With the meat still leftover I even cooked some kebabs for them. "Here have this all I ask is that you guys help with carrying this all back."
・・・
Returning to the room I stood in front of everyone and explained the dishes. "Taking your tastes into account I have decided to make an arrangement of dishes for you to choose from but to start I made tagine for all of you. From there, you have your choice of ful madames, shawarma, and kebabs. For dessert, you have your choice of sand dumplings and basbousa. Please enjoy to your heart's content."
Once I finished I saw the hungry looks in everyone's eyes as they carefully dug in restraining themselves from golfing the food down. As they did I heard the child begin to cry. Turning my attention to them I walked over. "Madam I can calm him down, please enjoy your meal."
Hesitant she looked over at her husband who gave a slight nod in response. The man who let his child go has so far shown me much disdain, knowing that I still took his child to calm them down in an adjacent room.
3rd POV
Kankurō hit with the delicious food golfed his down and was nearly brought to tears 'She rarely cooks this… she's always cooking konoha dishes…' In pure bliss, he knew he would have to put in some requests when he could even if it meant owing some favors in return.
"My dish is too greasy," Ikanago complained as he played with his dish but kept eating nonetheless.
"Where are your manners?" Ebizō spoke. "She made all this for us and instead of a thank you being the first words you utter they are complaints. If it was that bad you would not be half done with it." Reprimanding the older council member Ebizō let out a sigh. "I don't want to hear a complaint about the food from all of you it is clear that she passed this portion of the ridiculous test with flying colors."
・・・
After a while, when the food was gone to the last crumb the councilman from earlier, Takamoto spoke. "Dear, where is our child?" He asked loud enough for everyone to hear.
"She hasn't come back with my child I'm getting worried?" She said playing into the part she was given.
"Quick you two take me to where she is I must make sure my child is safe." He pointed to the two guards near the door. Kicking up enough curiosity most choose to follow and see. Kankurō and Gaara confused, curious, and a bit suspicious chose to follow once they saw that the majority were those who had shown their disdain for her.
Opening the door they all stared at Yukino who sat alone humming low for the child in her arms. Without looking at who entered she remained calm. "Shhh… he received too much stimulation with all the talking…" she spoke softly. "It'd be best if he went home if you don't want him to continue crying."
Stunned no one tried to say anything and agreed. No one liked a crying child. In a matter of minutes the mother of the child bid her goodbyes and left with a happy sleeping child.
Now standing in front of everyone a final test was conjured. "Out of the other ladies, we hear you have extraordinary skills. How do you feel about taking one last test as a show of your skills?"
"It would be my honor," she answered with a smile.
・・・
As they headed to the arena she trailed behind. From her purse she took out a hand mirror and a tube of pink semi transparent lipstick. Holding up a hand mirror she carefully applied her special lipstick making sure to not mess up. As she did, Kankurō came up to her.
"Pst… Yukino." He whispered trying to get her attention. "I know you said you practiced some instruments as a kid but you never said you were that skilled at it." Kankurō said in awe as he remembered her show a few hours ago.
Chuckling she put her makeup away and pulled out a fan. "It was part of my training from when I was young. All to improve the consistency in my hand movements for hand seals." She said quietly with a small smile on her face, a smile that she hid her mouth behind the fan. "I found it quite tedious as a child, luckily weaving and origami also covered that same thing so I opted for those most of the time. However… during my travels… I came across this peculiar group that taught me the shamisen and pierced my ears… I learned more about instruments from them but that's a story for another time."
Reaching the arena she was pointed towards the jonin who would be her opponent. Giving them a curt nod she heard the given task, defeat or bring into submission her opponent within 30 minutes. A generous time they said. Given the opportunity to choose 2 weapons of her choosing, she walked towards them and slowly and analyzed each one. As she did she took note of her surroundings. The council sitting above… the young ladies who have been waiting standing at the railings looking down at her… and the worried looks of her friends.
'They didn't even give me the chance to change so I can guess what they are trying to show since I passed every test…' Realizing that she settled on a simple fan as her weapon.
Wearing a smile she held the fan gingerly. "I will choose this as my weapon."
Baki who stood in the stands let out a frustrated sigh. He knew that smile the red-haired woman below wore. Although innocent looking, her eyes held the faintest glint in them, to her this test was a game that had caught her interest.
"Ho ho…" The elder chuckled seeing the same thing Baki had. Glancing at him he said nothing more as the two shinobi below finished their greetings and were about to begin.
As the greetings were completed Yukino quickly grasped onto her opponent's flak jacket and pulled them in. Angling her head she used the sudden pull to place her lips on the shinobi's neck. Taken by surprise the contact lasted for a full second before both parties backed away from one another.
Her eyes never leaving her opponent saw the look of disgust on his face as they wiped their neck. To keep up her facade she chuckled. "Haha. Don't tell me a little touch like that is enough to get you flustered?" Wearing a smile she teased them. "How are you supposed to make me surrender if you can't touch me?" Still feeling their skin on her lips she felt the urge to wipe them but restrained herself. There was one other man she had ever done that too but the feeling was completely different from what it was now. As her heart and spirit crawled at the feeling she kept her face perfectly frozen like a doll's.
Although they didn't react too much to her taunt it was enough to distract them. With a simple swish, she opened her fan and gently blew into it concentrating her wind nature on the fan itself.
Seeing her take action her opponent moved quickly teleporting behind her to knock her out as he's been told. But before they could land their hit they saw blue eyes meet theirs for a moment before they were knocked away by a strong gust of wind.
Reacting in time to defend themselves they glanced down at themselves seeing their chest covered in small cuts. Looking up at the red-haired woman she wore a smile as she softly fanned herself with her weapon of choice.
Snapping her fan shut she quickly swiped down as simply as one would to hit someone on top of their head. Seeing nothing he felt a strong cold gust of wind, feeling a shiver he cracked his knuckles as he knew a good fight awaited him. Walking towards her that soon turned into a full sprint as he fully accepted her invitation.
From above everyone watched as Yukino stood in place and blocked each incoming attack either by pushing them back with a gust of wind, redirecting the incoming weapons with her closed fan or even just moving slightly to avoid it. To those with the quick eye, they noticed a faint glint blocking some weapons and redirecting some of them back.
Yukino hiding behind the fan puckered her lips as a chain quickly passed by her mouth. With a quick swish the chains hit the small already on her opponents body. Acting as both her spear and shield she dared not show them off too much.
Meanwhile, those above begun to wonder why she seemed to play around and not take the offensive as one would have expected. The fight went on for around 10 minutes and part of the council began to grow bored. However, that would cease, pointing her fan downwards Yukino spun and the sand was kicked up obscuring everyone's vision momentarily. When the sand settled everyone turned to look at the shinobi below, shaking and struggling to get up.
'What happened?' everyone seemed to wonder.
Ebizō who watched let out a huge laugh as he could see his sister's teachings hadn't been forgotten by the girl but refined.
Yukino standing in the same spot where she started placed a loose hair strand back into place and slowly walked over to her opponent. "I must say you lasted longer than I had imagined, especially considering how much you were moving around."
"W-was it from the beginning?" They asked as they struggled to breathe.
"You guessed it." She smiled and pulled out a small pouch from her obi. Taking out a small bottle she handed it over. "Here's the antidote."
Taking a handkerchief for herself she carefully placed it on her lips and slowly peeled off the wax that was the only thing keeping the poison off her lips.
Yukino's POV
Going to a side room like the other ladies I can only assume the arguing between the council that will commence as each side tried to win. However knowing that some of the ladies here were related in some way to some council members I was sure some who would choose her would probably do so to spite, buy time, or prevent a rivaling family from becoming tangled with the Kazekage's.
Spotting my shadow clone and the young lady, Riko, she greeted me with a shining smile. By the looks of it, the girls stopped bothering her since I left. Happy I walked over.
"You were incredible! Compared to you I don't match up I was so nervous I even stumbled over the easiest tests."
"Well that can be overcome with some practice but in comparison, I don't think I have the same experience as you do." Thankful for the compliments I took a seat and lowered my voice. "I'm actually from a fallen family from another nation I only got in because of my recognition in the war." I quietly admitted. "I don't think I passed but this certainly intrigued me. I want to learn more about this nation's customs."
"Then next time we both have breaks, why not come to my place? We can ask my mom more about it."
"I would love that!" Laughing and enjoying some tea together we waited some time before we were all called to another room.
・・・
Standing in a line everyone was given a performance evaluation. Standing quietly waiting for my turn I heard my name. "Uzumaki Yukino by far you went above what was requested of you and received high results because of that. You performed a complex song, catered to everyone's taste not only making one or two dishes but a whole meal. Even in battle you showed reservation and won your fight before it even had the chance to begin. Your efforts have shown us that you are truly the best candidate we could have hoped for."
As he spoke I watched everyone's reaction with a smile. I could tell that half the room was upset with the decision but couldn't find a fault and that made me beam with as much dignity as I could without looking smug.
When the evaluation was done I gave a curt nod and bowed. "I thank the council for the opportunity to take part in this most esteemed test." As I spoke I could hear the sound of grinding teeth a few girls down and that brought me glee.
"Well it is late so let's end this already," Ebizō said as he stood up. "Yukino dear come with me I wish to speak to you."
"It would be my pleasure, esteemed elder," I said holding my head high as we walked out of the room. Turning as the doors closed saw the fiery glares of the girls and with the door blocking the council's view of me I raised a certain finger seeing as the snotty woman's face, whose name I could care less, steamed red from anger.
・・・
Taken to the roof of the building I dropped the facade I put on. "So… Can I ask what you need from me?"
"Hm? Oh, nothing dear." He sighed. "I just wanted to get you out of that den of wolves. Didn't you find the room too stuffy with all those glares?"
"Eh… I'm used to it. It actually made me happy." Leaning against the rails I laughed. "Most of those girls were so bratty I just didn't want them to flaunt that they could be worthy to be the Kazekage's future bride."
"Haha…" He sighed. "You have improved in your acting for a moment I wondered how you could have changed so much."
"Hm… well infiltration was a specialty of mine so it shouldn't be a surprise. Also was this test just to see who would marry Gaara?" Switching the topic to another she faced the elder.
"Partially. I have no interest in meddling in you young ones lives but the rest of the council want Gaara and Kankurō to marry and have children already. Those two aren't aware but this was arranged weeks ago to see if there was anyone who would catch Kankurō's eyes. Alas, as I thought neither of those boys have an interest in being tied down. I doubt I would see them marry by the time I die. If the council did set on choosing someone I know those two will find every excuse they can to avoid it since it's not only their freedom of choice who the council wishes to strip. I still remember the poor girl who was chosen a year ago…"
Already knowing what had transpired I faked curiosity and asked as if I hadn't. "I keep hearing whispers about it what happened?"
"...A year ago the daughter of the Hoki family was chosen as Gaara's bride and at that time a coup tried to take place. The council has seen many changes since you last been here and you can guess why…"
"Damn… I can't believe it. I hope there aren't any more."
"I wish the same… but what happened in the last one was truly tragic. During the confusion of an attack she was taken hostage and sadly we couldn't rescue her in time… So I wonder now how you became wrapped in all this."
"Well they're my friends so I'm doing them a favor."
"I thought that would be the case." He hummed. "But be careful there are still some willing to go to extremes to get what they want. I want you to return to your home safely so it worries me that you have entangled yourself with our affairs."
"Don't worry about me, I can beat up anyone as long as I put my mind to it even if I have to bite, I will not lose. You can bet on that." I beamed happy that he was worrying about my safety and for giving me some useful advice. "Also… what makes you think I'm not seriously thinking about marrying the Kazekage?" I joked.
"Dear, I know you have a place you consider home and that place isn't here." Pointing to the sky he pointed in a specific direction with a thin arm. "Your home is eastward, isn't it? I still remember all those years ago how forlorn you would look at the sky and no matter where we were your eyes always gravitated to that direction in the night sky. No matter how many times we have tried to keep you here, you always returned to your home in the east." Looking from the sky to me he continued. "However, you always returned for those three. As much as I appreciate your loyalty I know your heart can only call one place home." Stunned I looked up wondering if I really had always looked in that specific direction. Looking at the stars and the constellations I went over my memories to check. "Did you never notice?" He laughed. "Well I'll leave you to reminisce, you should head home and rest, today has been long. Don't worry about saying goodbye to them, I will make some excuse." As they walked to the door he stopped for a moment and smiled. "Oh, promise me this, before you leave, let's have one last meal together."
"I promise. Let's catch up soon." Bidding them farewell I remained on the roof to enjoy the cool wind.
・・・
After a bit of stargazing, I headed back to my room and prepared to go to sleep. Just as I finished changing I heard a light knock at the door. Going over I opened it sensing that Gaara was on the other side.
"I was wondering when one of you would show up." Opening the door wider I let him in. "Come take a seat." I pointed to the small seating area in the corner of the room. "So tell me what was up back there it seems that that test was really set on hitching you with a bride by the end of it."
"I know and it was…" Rubbing his temple he looked like he was thinking about how to put his situation in as few words as he could. "You probably already have a rough idea but it is just as you said however this time the test was done to see if there was anyone suitable to be able to marry into the Kazekage family."
"And normally?"
"An old tradition by the old prominent families as a show of how they stick to tradition."
Leaning against my chair I nodded in agreement. "I will admit hearing what the council was considering on testing me on it reminded me of the stuff my aunt would have me do." I said, 'And she's centuries old.' I thought but didn't add. "I will admit, those girls were talking about rankings. If they did well it would raise the degree of their potential suitors as well as the dowry."
"Hah… I'm sorry you had to hear that." He said shaking his head. Probably aware that Konoha had no such traditions he looked as if he didn't want me to learn of this from his culture possibly because he was worried I would think of it negatively.
"It's ok, it was interesting to be in that position. And don't worry I had fun showing my less used skills."
Chuckling he remembered something and pulled something from his pocket. "I also came here to deliver this." Handing me the letter I took it in my hands. "A few days ago when the council brought the test up… they were making rude remarks about you." He admitted with some difficulty. "Kankurō showed them this and convinced them to let you take part."
Looking at the letter in my hands I read it carefully. 'Nice. He made a case for me to have some diplomatic protection.'
"But it's not all his fault I had the final say in it and I agreed to let you take part. I'm sorry for not telling you."
"Well, that's okay next time though if you want me to do you guys a favor just tell me I will accept and to be honest I had fun today I learned a lot." With a smile, she put away the letter.
"Still this is my mess… I didn't want to involve you but I did. Things will just become more bothersome for you because of this."
"Gaara you're my friend…" Going over I held his face in my hands as I looked down at him, "and let me tell you as your friend I would hate it if you got married to someone you didn't even love and much less someone who was as rude as the ladies back there. Though let me tell you if they cause trouble I will manage." Briefly remembering the intimacy we shared some moons ago I let go.
Yaaaawn
Faking a yawn I turned away. "It's getting late, you should go to sleep after all you have to come up with a way to stop the council from making you tie the knot anytime soon. Seeing how half of them still hate me I doubt they'll try to get us married so there's that relief."
"That is true," He said, letting out a small laugh. Turning to look at me before he was led out I noticed the smile he wore. "Thank you for today, goodnight."
With that he left.
Closing the door and passing by my vanity I noticed I was smiling like a fool as well. Shaking my head I massaged my mouth to wipe it away. I didn't want to entertain the thoughts and warmness I felt from seeing his joy.
I just couldn't.
A/N: Hey guys as you can tell by the delay I'm back in college. Currently in my senior year so things are busy especially right now that I'm in midterms week. Sorry though for the delay.
