Scarlet Justice - ep. 111
"Peppermint Kisses"
[Something Precious, Part 3]

Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves well enough. I know that this party was meant for me, but...it would be a waste if the guests were bored or distressed, just to try and accommodate my tastes.

"Hey there, girlfriend! I've been looking for you!"

"Ino. Lovely to see you, as always. I just had a chat with my other favourite blonde."

We hug and exchange kisses, just as always. Ino has chosen a mature look tonight, her hair tied back into a bun, a sparkling necklace and earrings, and a stylish opening in the side of her red dress that allows her to show off her legs.

"You mean Naruto, eh. The kid really does cut a handsome figure these days..."

"Oh? Are we about to see some competition?"

She snorts. "Yeah, right. No way I'm going toe to toe with the Hyuuga Princess, especially on that front. Even I'm not that arrogant, hon."

"Well said. How has the party been so far?" I ask.

"Oh, it's been gorgeous. Not just the food and drinks...and that incredible cake..."

"It's quite a treat."

"Right? But aside from that, the atmosphere is like, super low key and there's just a positive vibe, you know? Like, if this were anyone else's party, I don't think it would be like this. Goes to show how classy you are, Lili."

"I didn't bring this to life myself, you know."

"No, but you're the life of the party. Remember, everyone's here because of you."

"Mm. I suppose so."

"I should be asking you if you're having fun."

"I am, definitely. I love gatherings like this...no expectations, and everyone can do as they please. Lovely conversations, and even new friendships can come out of it. Nothing too complicated...the kind of thing I like, really. I suspect you had a hand in putting it all together?"

"Eh...kinda sorta. Hinata and Fio took the lead, I did a little magic when it came to design, but not too much. Besides, I know you. You would have found it tacky if we went all out with everything."

"A wise decision," I say with a nod. "Thank you for this, Ino. I really do appreciate it."

"As you've probably heard a million times already, you're more than worth it, and this is the least we could do for someone so awesome. Plus, I know you'll pay me back some day for it. Even if I tell you no."

"Really? You would turn down a gift?"

"Well no, but...you know what I mean. The point is that you're stubborn. But I like that about you," she says with a smile.

"And what else do you like?" I ask.

"A lot of things. Nice things...interesting things. Your personality, for one."

I scoff. "Nobody likes my personality."

"Some call it an acquired taste!"

"That's called masochism."

She rolls her eyes. "You talk way too much sometimes, you know?"

"And that's my line."

"Dummy. I got you something, it's gonna be arriving on your doorstep tomorrow. The usual, with a surprise or two mixed in."

"Same as all the other presents, then. Funny how life works," I say as I take a glass from the nearby tray.

"Party one day, presents the next. That's a rich girl's life for you. Listen, it'd be great to gossip away the hours with you, but I think we should both get to our other guests for now. I gotta track down those puff pastries, make sure Choji is taking it easy on the snacks, check the wine and champagne supply, make sure we have enough party gifts..."

"Goodness. So you're still on the clock, then."

She shrugs. "Yeah, but it was something I wanted to do. You know, because it's for you and all."

"So what was all that about you having so little to do earlier?" I ask.

"Oh, please. If I can't handle this, how can I handle running the Leaf when my turn comes up?" she says with a smile. "I'll be just fine, hon. You're worth it."

"As long as you promise not to burn yourself out."

"Cross my heart. Have yourself a great time, Lili." She gives me a hug.

"I will, Ino. Thank you again."

I wander about the hall for a while, greeting people politely as I pass them by. Some of my old teachers at the Academy, who have been quite shocked with my growth over the past year or so. Even they didn't predict I would become a jounin so soon...frankly, I never had that high of an estimation of my abilities either. But that thinking has changed along with everything else. There are a few members of the regular forces who must have been invited to round out the numbers, which is more than fine...well, I thought so at first. It turns out that these are all people I know somewhat well. Hina, Fio, and Ino really did their homework.

"It's the birthday girl. I hoped I would run into you."

"Iruka-sensei, always a pleasure seeing you."

"Heh. Here you go, I picked something out that I thought you'd like."

Cleaning up nicely in his suit, Iruka hands me a leather pouch with something inside. It has to be a book of some sort, knowing him. From the looks of it, he wants me to open it here, so I'll oblige him. I undo the straps on the pouch and slide the book out so that I can see the title.

"Iruka." I frown at him. "You silly man, this is a limited print...how much did you spend on it?"

"Enough, really."

"I can't tell you to send it back, can I...very naughty of you. You shouldn't go spending all your money on young girls," I say with a smile.

"You can say that a bit louder if you want," he replies wryly. "As long as you like your gift."

"Like doesn't even begin to describe it. The world's finest and most accurate encyclopedia, fresh off the press...I can smell how new it is from a distance. An incredible gift. Thank you, Iruka." I put the book back into its home and hug him tightly.

"I wanted to do something special, so...here we are. I'm happy to hear that from you, Lili."

"It will please you further to know that I've decided to stop running away from my future. I'm going to become a leader that you can be proud of, and protect our home until the time where we are no longer needed as assassins in the shadows."

He looks at me with surprise. "Ah...so you're going to put yourself up for Hokage?"

"One day soon, without a doubt. I want to be like the old man in a lot of ways, and that will mean that you'll have an even greater importance to me, Iruka. I will need your help and expertise."

He points to himself. "Me? You're sure?"

I nod. "Positive. You'll see when the time comes."

"Well...alright. Who am I to turn down the birthday girl's request?" he says with a smile.

"Much appreciated. Thank you, not simply for the gift, but for everything you've done. It was thanks to you that I could get this far. Comforting me in the wake of despair...you did leave a fantastic impression on me. If I could become even half the person you were in that moment, I could change this world forever."

He rubs the back of his head, blushing. "You're saying way too much..."

I huff at him playfully. "Hmph! You men. It's too much when I tease you, and then it's also too much when I properly praise you. Little wonder women gossip and complain so often."

"It's my fault, now?"

"It always is, sensei."

He chuckles and I hug him again.

"Enjoy your birthday, Lili."

"I will. Thank you, Iruka."

I ascend to the upper level of the hall with my glass in hand, standing in front of the railing and looking downwards. Everything is just as lovely as when I was on the ground...a beautiful mix of people, everyone I've met since coming to this village. So many different bonds that I've managed to form for myself.

Shino and Hina are with my friends from Team Ten, with Ino entertaining the group as only she could. Choji is enjoying a generous slice of cake, while Shikamaru tries to fend off Hanabi as she pesters him.

Sakura and Sasuke are together as always, quietly seated away from everyone else. They seem content enough, and I can be happy for that much, even if I'm not very fond of them. Nearby, Shizune is trying to keep her mistress Tsunade from getting into the alcohol – to no avail, of course – with Tonton at her heels.

I wanted to send for Teuchi and Ayame earlier, but Ino took care of that, of course. I'm glad that they're here and able to enjoy the event. Currently, they're chatting with Kurenai and Asuma. My sensei seems just a bit on the tipsy side by now, but that much was to be expected. She does love her drink.

Speaking of drinks, Kakashi might be thinking that he could get away from some of that debt he owes her, which is why he's keeping his distance somewhat. Ruki is by his side, looking as bright and happy as ever. Naruto and Jiraiya are making noise with some sort of heated discussion, which goes to show that the perverted sage only brings out the worst in him. I will have a good talk with that man later on. In another corner of the hall, Fio is having herself a good time, letting out that lovely laugh of hers. She's speaking with Yuno and the Hokage, who has a circle of elite snobs that look less than happy at the moment. But he's paying them no mind, and seems happy to spend time with his beloved children. Erika is catching up with Kiba, and the fat-chested sensei is nowhere to be found. Perhaps she's on a mission. Hm. I don't really care, honestly.

Lee and Guy are taking pains to avoid alcohol of any kind, and Hina has made sure that they are accommodated. They're both enjoying themselves, which I like to see...but that insistence gives me pause. Are those rumours about the drunken martial arts berserkers true? If so...well, it's a good thing the girls took extreme caution, then. We wouldn't want anyone hurt...or worse, for me to ruin my dress subduing them. I really like this dress.

Neji and Tenten are making conversation on their own nearby. I have to wonder about that girl...hm. Neji is her type, is he? He probably isn't aware, but might be soon. But then, given his stalking of Hina when she goes out, I have to wonder. Iruka gets himself pulled into Kurenai's circle as she takes on more champagne, while Anko is making trouble for everyone in her own way. Ibiki is just as bad, and they team up to bully the closet pervert known as Ebisu – Konohamaru's tutor, I remember.

In the midst of everything, a sizable crowd gathers towards a singular point. My beautiful, beloved sisters are entertaining everyone with the greatest ease. Midori spins tales, with Luna occasionally interjecting. They playfully argue with each other, sharing smiles and providing little visuals for the audience to follow along. Soon enough, it seems like the whole hall is drawn towards the sounds of their voices, and Midori responds by telling more tales of strange and far off lands, some of which she's told to me before bed. She's absolutely captivating...I'm reminded of how much I want to be like her when I grow up.

I sip slowly from my glass and smile, watching everything progress on the floor below.

It's a magnificent thing. Despite all of my sins...despite the darkness that is in my heart. I have been blessed with all of this. People who give to me, and think of me, and care for me. People who love and trust me, with their lives even. People who see me as worth fighting for, and trust me to fight for them. Not just about tradition, or honour...but pure, genuine love.

I do not yet understand the will of heaven, nor will I pretend to. But...I will carry out what must be done, and follow the growing feelings inside of my heart. I will fight ahead, as many times as I am asked.

"Because I am truly blessed. And for that, I will be forever grateful."

I figured that the least I could do was wish everyone farewell at the conclusion of the gathering. Gift bags were prepared for all in attendance, and I delivered every one of them by hand. The guests were appreciative.

And as I expected, my family and friends took various steps to prevent me from helping with the cleanup, saying that it was my special day and that I should be resting, so on and so forth. I decided to spare them more trouble and gave in, allowing Kakashi and Ruki to escort me home. He is his usual self, dodging questions about his progress with Ruki. They are doing well enough, according to her, but she is also a bit more secretive than usual. Perhaps they've decided to get serious? If so, it's a relief to hear. I wish them a good night as we reach my home, and I ascend the stairs before taking the key from my purse.

"I'm home."

I sigh and take off my heels before flopping onto the couch nearby. A long, wonderful night.

"Let's rest our eyes a while..."

Closing my eyes, I take a short nap. The sound of the door opening wakes me, and I sniff at the air to be sure of my surroundings.

"Fio?"

"Hey! You weren't too bored waiting, were you?" She sets several boxes on the table, then goes back to grab another set of items from the person standing outside. "Thanks a lot! Have a safe trip home!"

"Good night, ma'am."

Fio closes the door and lets out a breath. "Whew! We actually made out pretty well tonight with the cleanup...nothing too bad, especially with so many of us around. I'd call that a super smashing success!"

"I was just sleeping...felt a little bit drained after all the activity."

"I totally get it. Your emotions must have been bouncing up and down all day." She takes off the adjustable sandals I had made for her. Certainly for someone who doesn't normally wear heels, they must have been a godsend. "How about that. Your present for me came in handy, hehe."

"An act of providence, to be sure."

"Has to be." I make room for her and she drops onto the couch beside me. "Ah, that's comfy. So, did you have fun tonight?"

"I certainly did, love. Thank you for organizing all of that for me. It must have been a lot of work..."

"Maybe. If it was, I didn't notice one bit. Working with Hinata was a lot of fun...gosh, she's so diligent, you know?"

"I do. She's worked hard her entire life."

"Yeah, I could see it. And Naruto, he's such a fun guy! I hope we get to meet again soon."

"I think he would love to have you over. He and Yuno like to play videogames about once a week. Maybe you could join them?"

"Ooh, sounds neat. Once I get all my team stuff finalized, I should ask him about that."

"You should. You two are a lot alike, you know."

"Hehe..."

"Fio..." I pause as she looks at me. "I...I love you so much. I always will, and not just for the celebration you gave me just now. You have been...a blessing to me."

"Heh, that's my line." She takes my hand and squeezes it gently. "I love you too, Lili. Thank you for giving me a second chance in life. Your whole dream and everything, I want to see it come true. And I figure, aside from you being so cute, it's always a lot better to get there when you're happy. So, making you happy whenever I can is the goal. My life's work, I guess."

"Thank you, Fio."

"Anything for you, Lili."

"Anything...then, can I make a request?"

"Sure."

"I want to rest until morning...just like this." I rest my head in her warm lap.

"Of course." She smiles above me, gently stroking my head with her hand.

Today was something I needed, more than I realized. I really am blessed beyond measure.

It's the next morning. And with it comes more excitement than I thought possible.

Aside from the food – and that divine cake! – saved from the party for us to stuff ourselves with, we have presents that have arrived by a parade of couriers. As Ino correctly stated, this is the decadence of the elite in full view of the masses.

"Oh, sheesh. Okay, hold on...I'll take yours first. Now you can stack that one on top..."

Fio is handling the door, as she insisted upon, while I sit and read the daily reports, delivered early this morning by local hawk. A hot cup of tea sits waiting for me, and I've changed into one of my favourite silk gowns for the morning, since nothing should be coming up as an interruption.

The gifts are progressively stacked onto the kitchen table, which is more than sturdy enough for the task. Luna made sure of it, of course. I sip my tea and Fio keeps the door open so that she doesn't have to keep moving it back and forth. It's warm out and the aircon is off, so that much is fine.

"That...seems to be it, for now at least." Fio closes the door, and I stand up to stretch my limbs. "So. We ready to go?"

"Just about," I say. "Let's open our gifts..."

Candies and chocolates of all types, some imported. Plenty of cards that I make sure to read through – the feelings contained within are important, after all. Some are short and sweet, others more elaborate in nature.

Ino got me flowers – magnolias, to be exact. I put them in the vase that Yuno gifted me. The extra things she hinted at are...a cute top and shorts, paired with a new watch. Very nice. I'll have to wear them the next time we have tea. Naruto got me a manga collection, one that I was looking at a while ago. Erika, the latest season of my favourite anime. Kakashi went practical and got me a set of gloves with some advanced material. I'll try them out at some point. So many thoughtful and useful gifts from my close friends, like the adaptive sunglasses from Shino, or the portable medical kit from Ruki. Perhaps there's more to come once the days press on, but I'm more than happy with all of this.

"You can eat as much of the sweets as you like, Fio."

"Wow, thanks. Some of these look pretty interesting...hm. Peanut butter inside of...a chocolate disk? Eh? Wonder how that works." She scratches her head.

"Oh, here it is...this one's from Mama," I say with a big smile. Something that doesn't immediately reveal what's inside...a thick manila envelope that has been carefully sealed. Fio hands me the thin letter opener, and I delicately slice open the seal to get at the undoubtedly juicy contents.

Fio stands beside me and squints. "Papers, huh."

"..." I stare at the documents in my hands before my belly fills up with laughter. "Hmhmhm...!"

"Lili? What's so funny?" Fio asks.

"Hehehehehe...Emi Kobayashi, you ridiculous woman. So this is what you had planned all along."

Not at all what I was expecting, but considering her...it all makes sense.

Kobayashi Rice has obtained more land in Fire Country. To be specific, they will have a new base of operations within the Hidden Leaf. For that reason, a set amount of passive income will go directly to me, into a separate bank account that only I can access. Jakari Programming – incidentally, because of course – will be across the street. In addition to all of this, there is another plot of land within the village, currently barren and untouched, controlled by the Kobayashi Estate.

That woman has left me to deal with how it might be used.

"Oi. You really are a handful, Mama." Considering that at current, she has full control of the Kobayashi Family holdings and assets, she could very much do as she pleased. Which means new benefits for me, and by extension...

"Whoa! No way! Look at all those zeroes!"

...who else but Fio?

"Hey, hey. Are we moving out, Lili?"

"Haaa...I'll have to think on it," I say as I sit down. Fio pours me another cup of tea and delivers it faithfully. "Thank you, love. I don't know yet what I want to do with this land. Mm...a mansion could work. Or...perhaps I should think of others right away. A complex of sorts. A home with lots of trees and flowers around it, a preserve, maybe. It could be the home of a business or two. So many options. Fio, what are your thoughts?"

She places her arms on the back of my chair. "Hmm...I like...the idea of community homes. It would be great for families of all kinds! And old people! A big complex is nice, too! Or we could be secret heroes...making our own base, hidden in plain sight until the time comes to fight evil! Like super sentai!"

"Something I should chew on a bit...I could also just sell the rights to it. Lease it, maybe." I sip at my tea. The land is clearly very valuable. But...I don't need more money. With my allowance, the new income stream, missions...unless I end up funding something drastic, I might have money forever. Even subsidizing an entire apartment complex wouldn't be that hard in the end.

"Giving back..."

My heart is guiding me towards that idea. But the form that it will take...that's something that I really want to get right. I can do something big with this land in the heart of the village. I know it.

"There's one last fancy gift. This one's from your big sisters."

Fio hands me an impeccably crafted box, made of what looks to be solid oak. I run my hands over the smooth surface before opening it. Inside is a flat and segmented chain...made of platinum, I think. Quite costly, and just like those two. But at the bottom of it is an interesting shape.

"..."

"Wow...it's beautiful," Fio says quietly. I put the necklace on and hold the object in my hand. It's a snake made of diamond, biting its own tail to make a complete circle. On the surface, there are three names etched in their proper characters. Lunamaria...Midoriko...Lilith.

"It truly is stunning," I say. A smile comes to my face as I let the diamond fall from my hands, the necklace settling around my neck. "It seems that my sisters all are with me now, no matter where I might go." I look down to see the sparkling charm from Hina, wrapped around my ankle. "A very comforting thing."

"It's gotta be. You look awesome."

"Thank you, Fio."

"I'll put away some of this stuff, and then we can eat! Those leftovers from the party look pretty good..."

So many good things. So many good feelings...

"Everyone...if you can keep supporting me, I promise...I will make everything right. I will take all of you to the promised land that you've been dreaming of all this time."

Yes. I won't let my precious people down. To protect the world's possibilities...that is why I fight.

And that is why I will win.