Whirlpool's Very Own

by Charlywood

Secrets rise from the grave to haunt Konoha and the Elemental Nations for past sins brought against the former Hidden Village of Whirlpool. It all begins with Naruko Uzumaki. A shadow group calling themselves Whirlpool's Very Own, all descendants of various Whirlpool clans see Naruko as Whirlpool's hope to restore their ancestral home to glory. In Naruko Uzumaki We Trust!

5. Ripples in the Wave - The Midorinami

AN: This chapter was done months in advance. I planned on releasing it with the next Grey Label chapter, as this chapter was done quickly. However, plot changes and editing, plus life events slowed the Grey Label chapter to a halt as I reworked both story plots. I've also taken on a change in writing style. They're slowing being implemented.

Now, those of you that read and do comment, much love. The discrepancy between follows and favs is kinda throwing me off, but I can guess the reason for it. This stands out to me for the following reasons: 1.) I value my time, 2.) I'm an author of original stories first and foremost. I didn't start with fanfiction and make the jump to creating my own stuff, It's the opposite. 3.) While I won't be trying to monetize what base I do have (that's an awful, and ineffective way of trying to earn. Time has shown this), However, the priority is MY works and my budding clothing company.

I say this because while I write for enjoyment, first and foremost, I'm not that kind to continue an attachment to something I do, being taken for granted. I say this knowing art is subjective. For now, it's fine, but I wouldn't expect WVO or Grey Label to see too much further development or completion if the number disparity between comments, favs, and follows doesn't change.

Making a long author's note longer, I'm wincing right now because I don't like AN's, especially meaningless ones. You want your story and nothing more, unless it's a little clarification for something that might be confusing and rightfully so. I'm fine with keeping AN's to a minimum because that's the professional thing for me to do. Right now, I'm considering shorter chapters to alleviate the wait times, cause while I like writing long form, you all shouldn't have to wait months for updates. So, if you like the idea of shorter chapters with quicker, weekly update times…LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS. If you prefer the long form, I'll work to increase my update times. LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS. Failing any meaningful response to this, I'll continue as I see fit!

~On with the show…

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«Whirlpool's Very Own»

Chapter 2: Ripples in the Wave: This is the Midorinami!

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⟩Water Country - Battlegrounds⟩

The humid oppressive mists swirled red, but the tide of battle had turned a crimson of its own. Kiri's loyalist troops were falling back, their water dragons dissipating feebly against the relentless fury of Mei's rebellion. Bodies littered the muddy earth around what had been a strategic watchtower, now a smoldering ruin. Mei straightened, a sheen of sweat and rain upon her victorious, yet weary, face.

"Secure the perimeter," she barked to her battle-worn but jubilant troops. "Hold until we establish a forward camp." A flicker of pride touched her eyes and a ghosting smile. It had been costly, but they'd taken it.

Ao limped to her side, Byakugan deactivated but his face etched with a mixture of grim satisfaction and concern. "That was a gamble," he rasped, nodding towards the wreckage.

"A necessary one." Mei countered. "Yagura's supply lines in this sector are crippled. What he's got is all he's got, now" And crippling them meant help from unexpected quarters.

Ao lowered his voice as he reminded, "This...assistance...is coming at a price."

Mei's jaw tightened. Yes, victory carried a bitter tang. Those strange seals which were woven into their ambush. Unassuming notes marked "Great Green Wave" and "Courtesy: Local Midorinami" arrived attached to scrolls of varying ordinance…instructions just as promised. These instructions detailed not only their use, but when and where.

And their eventual use exposed explosively dynamic mechanisms potent beyond any of their making...they were obviously a Whirlpool hallmark, what else would Green Wave reference? Not the damn Isle of Waves, that was for certain. And their utilization immediately wrought reminders of the desperate bargain struck with the Kaguya representative and her Midorinami sponsors.

The words, Mea Culpa were beginning to appear in her dreams intermittently.

"A price worth paying?" Ao pressed at Mei's thoughtful silence. The Byakugan thief was no fool. He knew her too well, and saw the shadow of unease upon her brow.

"Kirigakure is dying, Ao." Mei's voice was raw with emotion, the fiery rebel momentarily eclipsed by a woman who mourned a broken homeland. "The bloodline purges… children pitting their fangs against each other..." Her gaze swept the field, seeking out the many young faces among her wounded troops. "Yagura's tyranny will bleed us dry long before any foreign enemy bothers to take advantage."

"What if this is their advantage? Those Whirlpool descendents," Ao's tone held both caution and understanding, "they fight Yagura as we do, but their hatred burns deep. Do we risk becoming kindling for their vengeance?"

"They want leverage, a place at the table when the dust settles." Mei admitted. "Kiri will owe a debt, but alive and owing is better than being consumed by Yagura's madness, swallowed into the unfillable abyss." She exhaled raggedly. "It's not ideal, Ao. It's just survival. That's what matters right now."

Ao grunted, a grudging acceptance that echoed her own. "Then we ensure the debt owed makes us stronger, not simply slaves to a different master."

Mei's lips thinned in a grim smile as she turned to kiss the man's cheek, leaving a smudge of blue. "Ever the strategist, Ao. Rest assured, I bargain as fiercely as I fight. When Kiri bleeds, it will be to staunch the old wounds, not open new ones."

They watched as a group of their medics approached the ruined base, bearing not just the wounded, but scrolls, maps – the spoils of a hard-won victory. This was just a start, a slightly brighter flicker of light in the blackest darkness.

Kiri's future was yet unwritten, but for the first time in years, Mei Terumi dared to imagine a dawn where the mist might clear, revealing something resembling hope.

Mei stood among the dissipating mists and dying flames as the draining feeling of expiring adrenaline sent her into a fog. The feeling was familiar as her hands rested unsteady at her sides… she controlled her breathing as thoughts about the reality of her situation took hold.

Born into the Bloody Mist Era, a witness to her village tearing itself apart, a people, a community of many…tearing itself apart. Clans clashed, betrayals poisoned those in power, and even Kiri's legendary Seven Swordsmen were felled into pride, hubris, and ruin.

'When the Bloodline Purges began, a lifetime of fighting felt like my only destiny.'

'Father was right to have pushed. I hated it then, but I understand now. He had the vision, but I couldn't see it clearly. If I'd seen it sooner… god. And this war might have... still, I'm proud of the woman I became… had to become. I know he would too. Forged in fire as I was, to persevere the torture chamber, not unlike these kids.'

'If ending this bloodshed offers even the slimmest chance of tranquility as a result, every battle scar will have been worth it.'

Mei let her eyes close, at a loss to fight against her exhaustion. Needing a rare moment of respite from tactical plans and bloodshed, responsibility of lives. Just a few seconds in the darkness to imagine a better future, what peace must feel like.

W×V×Ø

Mental exhaustion clouded Kei's thoughts as he paced sluggishly back into Konoha. The Midorinami assignment itself had devolved almost as soon as he set foot in Wave, ending up a bizarre afterthought he'd prefer to forget. A half-baked excursion launched with no real threat, no mission, no team-up, no responsibility to client or an affiliate, and no sense of accomplishment. An expensive waste, nothing more.

Mind exhausted from thoughts and frustration in the thereafter, physically fatigued him as unanswered questions gnawed deeper, stemming from something far more personal.

His hand raised to push open the familiar wooden doors of his boutique shop with a sigh, greeted by a familiar fragrance mixed of leather, metal, polish, and dye did nothing to soothe his frayed nerves as he shrugged off his vest and unstrapped the shuriken holster from his shoulders, letting the gear fall haphazardly to the showroom floor.

He stepped to the rear of the shop, since expanded in storage size, and additional space for equipment and work. He glanced at the seal inscribed forge set against the opposite wall. Snatching up a rolled blueprint from a nearby desk, he pinned it to the standing cork-board with more strength than required, falling onto the work stool with an aggrieved sigh.

Kei looked over the blueprint. Some folks tended to binge food, drink, drugs, fuck, etcetera when upset. He worked, or trained, either one or both until he couldn't see straight or blacked out. So he'd occupy himself finishing a special order for the Uzume clan- A two sided mirror, fashioned into a four-pointed star, crafted from fine jade, engraved with specific dawn and sky inspired designs symbolic to the clan.

The Uzume were a minor clan from Hoshigakure. The clan was known for their Dawn Release. Funny to him that the Uzume relocated to Konoha years ago after conflicts concerning the village's leadership and the use of Star Training. Also funny, that same leadership seemed to want them gone. By all rights, Konoha had none…he was getting distracted.

He penciled adjustments, notes, and marked notations around edges of the blueprint. He turned to the clay model, the finished concept with the Uzume clan's approval, before proceeding to production. He started his work with a pen knife. Envisioning the process from start to end, he nicked and sliced away small pieces starting at the top.

Mapping out the objects appearance with each precise cut, he planned to start on the outside, working his way in, and finishing with the engraving designs - A swirl of crimson light erupted, spinning up behind him with a glow cast at his back in their revealing of Kagura's furious astral projection, joined by Eiji's worried visage. Kei released a breath of patience, set down his tool, and slowly turned to face the two, their seal on his ear throbbed with a minor, dull ache, an obvious reminder of how precarious a situation they were in.

"Spare me your angst, Kagura." He was sarcastic as he turned to face the projections of the twins. "Before you say anything, know that I won't hesitate to wash my hands after the bush-league shit I just experienced." Kei warned, his voice calm, staring into the eyes of the diabolically gorgeous Kagura. "Sakaeru blew her cover to some civilians, so you risked my cover and my brother's by extension sending me to Wave to…" Kei's anger showed as he paced, eyeing Kagura contemptuously.

"...That I'd give her some rope! As if she'd drop it or forget what her issue was? That you deluded yourself into thinking I'd take advantage of our relationship in that sleazy fashion is an insult." Scoffing, angry at himself for not realizing that sooner although they did share something of a mutual attraction. She'd let him if he tried. Sakaeru was a great woman, but irreparably damaged. She'd go along, because she'd think it would help him. And sure, they bantared, played their games, and messed around, but it was an innocent thing. …being beautiful from youth, in a small town.

A big fish in a small pond - she did what was best to support an ungrateful family, while in the services of the worst sort of trash imaginable. She didn't know what love was, didn't really understand the concept, and he wouldn't be taking advantage of that, nor would chivalry die with him. The only weak and damaged minds to be taken advantage of were the enemies.

That the twins used something so personal to make her excited and willing to go along - helping those in similar situations like herself, didn't bother Kei. Not as much as the fact that they were beginning to take liberties that invited unwelcome thoughts.

Anyways…

Eiji, ever the voice of reason, tried his hand at keeping Kagura and Kei on middle ground, lest they be at each other's throats the next time they met in person. His brow furrowed in concern as he spoke, "We're just here to—"

Kagura cut her brother off with a dismissive wave of her translucent hand. "Oh, we'll straighten out that dizzy bird, you can be sure of that. But make no mistake, Kei, you're far from blameless…" The red-headed woman was smug, going by her glowing projection. "Why didn't you use those eyes of yours? Every one of us can tell you've long fallen for her Kunoichi no Jutsu. And got nothing out of it. Honestly, that's a first for me." Still smug, she didn't stop. "You didn't consider disposing of that family…even threatening them with Gato's name would have sufficed."

"Kagura..!" Eiji exclaimed, his neutral expression altering into stern disapproval, shaking his head at the insulting words that launched off his sister's tongue. "Blackmail, murdering civilians? What is—" But Kagura spoke over him.

Her words were quick and lethal as a viper's strike, laced with an overdose of venom and a hint of something else – twisted amusement delivered a jolt of surprise and pained anger through Kei.

"If you want a Uchiha, Kagura," Kei hissed through clenched teeth, voice tight with controlled rage, "go find yourself a damn Uchiha. You don't get to compare my ability, when you know the two ain't the same!" He scoffed, stepping closer to Kagura's projection. "Plus, we don't use jutsu against our family, or did you forget what family is?" He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down.

"I don't care about the civilians! I simply chose the best option for the Midorinami with what little time and info I had! Which already expands Sakaeru's mission in a way that leaves us free from responsibility. " He whispered quietly into her ear about the actions he'd taken and stepped back, enjoying the flicker of surprise that crossed Kagura's spectral face, replaced quickly by a mask of defiance.

"You're fucking welcome." He grinned savagely, then he appeared fine after dropping the expression. "You know something, Kagura?" he continued, his voice low. "I actually like that you're a shifty, untrustworthy, manipulative bitch of a woman. We need you for this thing to have a chance, and the Midorinami knows we'll go deeper than the gutter, leaving our morals in the sewers with the blood, guts, and entrails of enemies, innocents, and collateral damage…into the black unfillable void. We're here because…you're the one who won't crumble on the darkest day, or the biggest stage. It's almost twisted how much we love you for that. But targeting family out of anger? None of us signed up for something so cliche, typical, or blase."

The air crackled with unspoken tension. Kagura looked with wide-eyed wonder at Kei's words. She didn't know what to say to Kei's brutally honest admission - having thought about keeping a buffer of distance between the members and herself and her brother, not wanting the group to get any ideas, too close, or think they weren't expendable because it was unlikely they would all see the end.

That said, it was especially surprising to hear Kei…Midorinami's unofficial leader absent the twins, resident mentor, big brother, and whatever else. The brooding, large chested Kaguya clinged to him when she felt troubled, and if the person this meeting revolved around could love - admit that he'd vouched for her as the one reason they could pull this thing off and no one questioned it, had no delusions really…touched her in a way she thought she'd never feel again.

Then, she heard Kei sigh as he reached behind his ear, raising the tip of a kunai close to his seal. A flicker of fear, raw and primal, alighted in Kagura's eyes.

"Kei, don't!" Eiji spoke up quickly, stunned by the odd falling out he was witnessing and Kagura's uncharacteristic behavior. "Severing the seal might severely compromise your life!"

Kei's eyes flicked to Eiji having forgotten the quiet male was present. "Then get the fuck out…do what you want, just keep me out of it. I'm done!" He announced, voice flat. "Just don't. Contact. Me. Or Kayo. He's got enough to worry about already. I will contact you when I feel like it."

He severed the link with a sharp snap, leaving an echoing silence in its wake. The shop felt suffocating in the sudden silence. Kei raised the kunai in his hand and threw it across the room where it pierced through the opposite wall, embedding itself up to the hilt.

"Damn it all," he muttered, his voice laced with bitter frustration, his voice choked with a mixture of anger and disappointment.

He winced, head throbbing from overloading the seal with chakra to forcefully sever the link with Eiji and Kagura, he couldn't deal with them right now, especially with Kagura acting petty. He tried shrugging off her scathing words, knowing she was just mad due to Sakaeru's actions but she still got to him. More importantly, Sakaeru's recklessness could still compromise the Midorinami.

"This feels like a failure in the making," he sighed, running a hand through his messy locks of hair. "What a time to grow a conscience." A humorless laugh, devoid of emotion.

Her cover was blown, destroyed, the only benefit was Gato's ignorance, but how long would that last? Kaiza's family went from keeping her at arm's length to knowing far too much. And civilians with privileged knowledge were reckless, giving the opposition an advantage. Kagura had a right to be angry, a weak link could unravel everything they'd been working towards.

~15 days Later - Konoha: The Academy

"Graduate, Uzumaki Naruko!"

A smattering of applause, mostly from attendees Kei and Kayo, and a few others scattered in the audience. Naruko practically vibrated with excitement as she dashed across the small wooden platform set up in the Academy courtyard, a megawatt smile plastered across her face.

Today, she wasn't just Naruko. She was Uzumaki Naruko, a Genin of Konoha. The weight of the village's emblem, soon to be adorning her forehead, settled on her with a thrilling intensity.

"Congrats, Naruko. I knew you could do it," Iruka offered, a hint of guilt coloring his smile. His words were genuine, but he acknowledged his bias toward her. A shudder threatened to shake him recalling a particularly passionate advocate confronting him. Naruko, thankfully, remained blissfully unaware of Kayo's interventions.

"Thanks, Iruka-sensei!" Naruko burst with vibrant energy, culminating in a hug that squeezed the breath out of the teacher.

"Heyyy! That's what I'm talkin' about!" Kayo whistled, cutting through the applause, black shades gleamed in the sunlight, increasing his air of brash coolness. His attention gaining whoops and clapping clashed in contrast to Kei's subdued enthusiasm. Dressed casually in a black button-up and brown khaki shorts, Kei projected an air of cool pragmatism next to his brother's flamboyant display.

The Kuria brothers were Naruko's most vocal supporters, joined by a smattering of classmates and villagers familiar with the long haired teen.

A concerned groan escaped Kayo, peering over the rim of blacked-out shades to scan the area with a hidden intensity. He continued to clap, but his gaze darted restlessly around the courtyard searchingly.

"The Hokage?" Kei murmured, his voice barely a whisper - hiding his indifference behind a mask of enthusiasm. "He's here, but not really here." He clapped along, his perception far sharper than his brother's. He could feel the faint thrum of chakra, invisible to the naked eye – the signature of the viewing orb belonging to the 3rd Hokage.

Hmm, Kei's mind echoed, more concerned with his brother missing the presence of the spy orb's effect over the area. Looks like Kay-kun needs practice. That, or he's gotten rusty in the General Corps. He silently mused to himself as he noticed his brother eyeing him guiltily from his peripheral vision. At least he still knows what I'm thinking.

"Sorry brother, I dunno why I missed it." Tentatively made his apologetic admission knowing his brother took such things to heart, certain there would be a consequence for his lack of awareness later. "Shii…can't all be sensitive or naturally inclined ya know?" Kayo mumbled. Kei tuned out after he apologized, knowing his brother's tendency for unprovoked tsundere-ism. Kayo's predictability made him yawn.

Kayo's eyebrows creased into an annoyed frown behind his shades noticing his brother purposely tuning him out. He narrowed gray eyes on his brother following his line of sight to see what was so interesting.

"Mm?" Kayo tilted his head, a playful glint in his clouded gray pupils beneath the dark shades. He lowered them slightly, peering over the lenses with a grin. "Interesting," he muttered, pushing the shades back over his eyes. "Is our fiery little blonde blossoming into a young woman? Falling in love, perhaps?" Thoroughly tickled laughter escaping him, laced with teasing chitter.

Kei shrugged noncommittally. "Far too surprised, Kay-kun." He gruffly muttered. "She's acutely aware and honest with her emotions, at least when it comes to people. 'Ruko doesn't have fleeting feelings, but who knows what love is…we could learn from her, I think." Kei further contemplated. "It's the other one I'm interested in. The Hyuga. She certainly isn't shy about her feelings, or what she wants. Forwardness is her preference." He focused chakra to his eyes, a low groan escaping his lips. The angle and distance hampered his ability to fully lip-read the verbal exchange between the two.

It was as if, no, they were actively keeping him from spying. Despite that, Naruko's constant blush and flustered demeanor was like reading an open book. Kei snorted in amusement. Seemed like Naruko had underestimated the Hyuga heiress's sweet and charming approach, got herself baited, and wasn't prepared to be devoured.

Kayo shook his head, openly staring, mouth open. "You did just say we could probably learn something, huh? That is just wholesome…in a fucked up kinda way."

Kei shrugged. "Ninja. There's no accounting for it."

The Hyuga girl, her face hidden partially behind a tessen fan, whispered something playful, sending a wave of deeply flustered and embarrassed shock through Naruko. The blonde's every surprised response fueled the Hyuga's continued erotic teasing, her flirtations playful and coy, going just far enough that Naruko's mind filled in the blanks left from the unsaid.

Meanwhile, the Kuria brothers looked at one another as they caught a glimpse of the Hyuga's next words, a suggestion that made even them raise their eyebrows in surprise.

"Geez…" Kayo chuckled in further amusement, "never heard a kunoichi her age talk like that. The hell have the Hyuga been up to?" He muttered, amusement battling his usual boisterousness. "Repressed energy, perhaps?"

"Self-indulgence is only so satisfying and Hinata's infatuation with Naruko does seem slightly skewed, maybe." Kei observed, a small hint of concern lacing his voice. "It could be hero or idol worship rather than love. I'll see about it, ensure she knows the difference before it leads to a damaging misunderstanding." Kei suggested.

"So, what's the plan?" Kayo asked, then slapped his forehead as the answer hit him. "Obviously, the coming-out party, right?"

Kei gave a curt nod. "Agreed, but I'll handle the Hyuga. You keep focused on the logistics, keep our girl happy. Thankfully, everyone's self-absorbed because those two are in their own little world. The assistant, Ko, doesn't seem concerned…for some reason." He cast another watchful glance towards the two girls, a silent promise to keep a close eye on whatever he was witnessing.

Kei briefly recalled noticing Hinata before the graduation ceremony began. A small, porcelain-esque girl with deep eyes carrying a posh, quiet vigor. Her light skin-tone was highlighted by the large, pink bow-tied obi and bright hued accents styled upon her pitch black kimono.

Several admirers had approached upon noticing the girl's presence, heiress of the Hyuga clan, their ulterior motives obvious with conceit driven by selfish greed was transparent. The small group thought to take advantage of a young girl of great standing, with great responsibility, from a great clan seemingly arriving on her lonesome.

Before they could slither close enough, a Hyuga branch member, Hinata's personal assistant named Ko, materialized beside her. Ko's stoic expression held the weight of the Hyuga name, effectively driving off the misguided fools without one word. Hinata, face partially hidden behind her tessen, allowed herself a small smile of amusement at Ko's reliable protectiveness. But he'd seen through it, she didn't need protecting.

Kei also saw past the girl's facade immediately. The 'moe' act, the innocent charm, and aristocratic kindness masked a cold, dark truth. They couldn't see it, but he, sure as truth, could. A monstrous, dormant power surrounding Hinata towered to the sky as a mighty tiger to his eyes. He'd stared up at the largest aura he'd ever seen on anyone, with few exceptions, prisoner of the moment. This small, seemingly naive girl was a Hyuga after all, bred and trained for a life far beyond the understanding of the world's majority.

By comparison, the other genin graduates, for all their exuberance, seemed pitifully unprepared for the harsh realities of being a ninja shown in their lack of awareness, and naivete. Kei knew he couldn't relate, but he acknowledged the future Konoha genin were simply excited youths and held out hope their Jonin instructors would focus their minds.

Kayo frowned, replaying Kei's words about the Hokage while Kei continued watching Naruko and Hinata. Through their communication seal, Kayo reached out to his brother. "Naruko's going to be disappointed if the Hokage doesn't show up, for real. He promised, and you know how seriously she takes promises. She was really excited."

Kei, willing to give the old man the benefit of the doubt, replied, "You sound concerned. The Hokage might still arrive after the presentations." But he said that knowing that if he didn't show, Naruko's disappointment would be Kayo's responsibility. As her vassal, he needed to handle it. And it was time for him to step up.

Kayo was closest to her in age and understanding. They spoke the same language, held similar interests, outlooks, and shared a unique bond. Kei made sure he reminded him, "You're her vassal, Kayo. This falls on you."

Kei didn't notice his brother's annoyed frown as he watched the young, steadily maturing blonde enjoy her moment, signature smile ever present. She was really endearing, besides being a jinchuriki she was like any other kid, but paranoia and ignorance thrived in weak and thoughtless minds.

Despite the constant negativity that most of Konoha's populace treated Naruko with, she became a vibrant, optimistic, empathetic, loyal, passionate, determined, and kind person. Her self-esteem had been low early on, but it was much improved from before.

He only worried that the Hokage would unintentionally alienate her. It would be detrimental to all if she became bitter, jaded, or distrustful of others or the world at large - that risked earning her vengeance, and nothing good would come of a vengeful jinchuriki. The Hokage had more power and control than he gave himself credit for where Naruko was concerned, and while he knew the man was tired of dealing with bullshit, it wasn't fair that Naruko was usually the collateral damage.

~Post Graduation - Konoha: Academy Street

After the ceremony ended, most people left the Academy grounds while others mingled in the courtyard. The Inuzuka siblings being two such people.

"Congrats, squirt. Mom would've come, but something came up last second," Hana said, flashing Kiba a superior grin.

"Thanks, sis. So, is anything planned?" Kiba asked, growling as he tried to bat her hand away when she swiped at his head in amusement.

Hana's smirk faded as she shrugged. "She didn't say and I didn't ask," she responded, her eyes scanning the crowd. "Actually, I don't think so," she added, slightly animalistic eyes shifting to her brother. "You know you were expected to graduate, right?" She raised a questioning eyebrow. "Like… it was never a question. We don't do participation trophies, you know." Her voice dripped with arrogant sarcasm, brown eyes looking away again.

Kiba gave his sister a withering look before snorting. "You're obsessed, right, Akamaru?" He muttered to the puppy poking its head out of his coat, but didn't get the agreeing response he was expecting.

"Hey!" Kiba yelped as he received a hard fist to the top of his head for smarting off to the older brunette. Akamaru whimpered, deciding to stay out of the sibling squabbling as he shuffled deeper into the coat.

"Worry about yourself. Grow up, brat… quickly." Hana said with a mild glare as she folded her arms.

"Whatever," Kiba scoffed, waving his sister off.

Hana was about to retort when she frowned thoughtfully. "Why are you saying anything at all, I thought you two were tight?" She twisted her index and middle finger together in Kiba's face.

Kiba knocked her hand away as he responded. "We are. I mean, he's cool I guess, it could be worse." Kiba shrugged, trying to sound nonchalant.

"Cut that shit out, don't think less of him because of me," Hana said with emphasis, words dripping with playful scorn. "We go way back, long before your blonde friend introduced you."

Kiba bristled. "Hey, I never said there was a problem!" he protested, a touch too defensively.

Hana rolled her eyes, lowering to scratch Akamaru behind the ears, she addressed the Inuzuka pup. "Just make sure you don't catch his impulsiveness," she teased with a smirk. "Keep him sharp, alright boy?" Akamaru rumbled in agreement, then yawned and nuzzled into her touch.

Hana's amusement was clear. "Dreaming of being Alpha, are we?" she cooed, scratching him playfully.

Shifting her gaze to Kiba, she turned serious again. "And you gotta mature if you're serious about it, mom isn't going to take it easy on you. You can't just say things like that because you think it sounds cool, the ninja way isn't for the naive. It doesn't care about feelings or who you are. And our history is littered with the stories of those who forgot that."

"There's nothing wrong with being braggadocious, it's just our nature, but talk is easy." Hana flicked her brother's nose, earning a glare, and glaring back in return.

"For instance, who do you think you should be concerned with from the Academy? Even better if they're a source of motivation." Hana said with a seriousness rarely shown given her carefree personality. "Complacency is death for any ninja… among other things." She added with a shrug.

Kiba didn't respond. He knew he wasn't as dense as Hana made him out to be, he was more aware of the playfulness hidden behind their tense rivalry than he let on. He listened, of course he did…but like Naruko, sometimes information overload was easily achieved pending the topic, and his circuits got "fried" at times. It's why he abandoned learning more complex Inuzuka clan techniques after mastering just a few, as those few had served him well so far.

This shared struggle was part of his and Naruko's renewed bond. They understood each other's mental blocks. Likewise, both easily succumbed to boredom and thrived on action. They also shared an obsessive work ethic.

Imagine Kiba's surprise when Naruko smashed through her learning barrier. Her progress was an epiphany for him, especially considering she lacked the support of a clan. Unlike him.

Kiba, a keen observer, saw the new Naruko. It surprised him she played it close to the vest – he wouldn't have. By graduation, she could've been top dog, maybe even Rookie and Kunoichi of the Year. A feat that left Kiba wondering – was it possible?

The answer to his Naruko questions turned out to be Kuria Kayo, and ironically, that revelation made Naruko his most sensible rival. He'd known Kayo 2-years before he graduated, during a few odd years where civilians outnumbered clan entrants the Inuzuka filled several such seats - clan kids were ostracized for once and while Kayo was welcomed, he welcomed the Inuzuka. The civilian kids' envy was too petty for him to put up with. And it was often that he watched the older boy sparring amongst his kin. Now, he was helping Naruko, and because of her and Hana to a lesser extent, Kayo helped him out from time to time.

Shino, his closest competitor in terms of skill, lacked the spark. His stoic personality failed to ignite Kiba's competitive spirit. Competing with someone who didn't grasp "friendly rivalry" was pointless.

Sasuke was a universal rival, his arrogant me-against-the-world mentality rubbed most everyone the wrong way. But Kiba craved a deeper connection, a rival who pushed him beyond jutsu mastery, but also someone he could actually stand to be around.

Naruko fit the bill perfectly. Their rivalry stretched back to their childhood Academy days until he realized just how unpopular she was. Back then, he feared ridicule, and distanced himself from the ostracized blonde.

Now, most importantly, he needed to come clean, make amends. Naruko's transformation demanded respect, not just as a rival, but as a friend. Her newfound independence, evident in her renewed attitude, was a stark contrast to her past need for validation.

A surprised squeal shattered Kiba's focus. He whipped around to see Kayo hoisting a giggling Hana into the air, spinning her like a ragdoll. The surprise on her face wasn't from the maneuver, though.

"Cheater!" Hana yelped, shoving Kayo playfully as he set her down. "How do you always do that?"

Kiba blinked, realization dawning. No scent, no sound - the same way he appeared before. 'So that's it,' he thought, mimicking Akamaru's curious tilt of the head.

Kayo chuckled. "Trade secret, Hana-chan. Unless..." He wagged his eyebrows, a goofy grin splitting his face. "You know, unless you become Wifey-chan."

Hana rolled her eyes, a playful but loaded punch smacking his arm. "Don't even joke about that, you idiot! You know I hate it." This time, the punch held a hint of real irritation.

Kayo's grin faltered, replaced by a feigned shiver. "Whoa, someone's feisty today. Attractive though." His eyes roamed over her, a playful glint returning as he appreciated the kunoichi's alluring presence. "Gotta admit, that fiery toughness of yours is why I like you so much." Seeing Hana outside of her vet's cloak made Kayo look long and hard in appreciation. "So, tell me…am I joking though?" He mumbled.

Hana's modified Chunin vest barely contained her athletic form. Cropped to reveal a sliver of her toned midriff, hinting at the power and flexibility beneath. A mesh top peeked from beneath the unzipped upper section revealed a glimpse of tan flesh from her cleavage, adding a touch of rebellion to the uniform. Fitted khaki shorts cupped a soft, round backside showcasing toned thighs and legs sculpted by years of rigorous training signifying power and agility.

Hana snorted, a classic Hana move - rolling her eyes and shaking her head like she heard it all before. But a faint blush betrayed her, a flicker of warmth under her tough exterior.

Kayo smiled smugly, unfazed by her act. He met her raised eyebrow with a playful challenge in his own eyes. A spark ignited between them.

Kiba and Akamaru exchanged a silent glance, their excitement a palpable energy. They watched, more invested than they'd care to admit, as their friend made his move. Hana, despite her bravado, couldn't hide the quickening of her heartbeat as his hand brushed her hip.

As a new couple, Hana braced herself for a quick kiss, something low-key to avoid unwanted attention. But when Kayo met her gaze, a tender smile playing on his lips, and leaned his forehead against hers, her cheeks flushed crimson.

Kayo, having Tsume explain the significance of this gesture among the Inuzuka, knew exactly the message he was sending. Whether Tsume intended it as a test or not, it had its intended effect.

Hana's cheeks burned. Was this a genuine gesture, or was he just messing with her? He could be such a goof sometimes. Still, the tenderness in his eyes gave her pause. Briefly, a pang of guilt flickered – maybe she'd lower her defenses a bit.

Pushing aside doubt, Hana closed her eyes and let herself savor the moment. This was sweet, unexpected.

Across from them, Kiba's jaw dropped. Blinking rapidly, he hadn't realized Hana and Kayo were that serious. Were they that serious? He recalled their mom calling their relationship "a thing", and Hana hadn't even been offended. Just shrugged it off like a passing fancy. Confusing.

"So," Hana mumbled as they seperated, a hint of shyness replacing her usual bravado. "Dinner tonight?"

"Can't. I'm closing the shop tonight, and big bro pulled a custom order he wants to finish before the completion date." Kayo sighed, running a hand through his hair.

"Oh. I see." Hana's smile faltered, a flicker of disappointment crossing her face. "Well, that's fine." She ran her hand along her arm uncomfortably.

"Right? Because that don't mean we can't do something later," Kayo grinned, tapping her chin playfully making Hana look up again. "We're having a small party for a friend tonight, see? Maybe even stay over?"

"Stay over? Kay-kun, after that first time I—" Hana stammered, cheeks burning. The idea of spending the night again was as equal parts thrilling and terrifying as it had been the first time.

"Relax," Kayo chuckled, his voice warm. "I just want to be next to you. You come to the party, help me avoid the imminent threat of endless bowls of ramen pushed my way, and maybe, just maybe," he leaned in conspiratorially, "we can catch the sunrise."

The playful glint in Kayo's eyes sent a shiver down Hana's spine. The thought of a quiet sunrise with him, a moment of peace from the usual, was undeniably appealing, especially with increasing responsibilities. But the stubborn part of her remained hesitant.

"I don't know, Kay," she mumbled, looking down at her shoes. "It's just...maybe we should slow down. What about our family? I know mom, she'll start pressing and being weird if she thinks we're going further than we really are."

Kayo groaned passively, shrugging. "There's nothing for it, cross that bridge when-if we get to it," Kayo winked, earning a playful shove from Hana. "And weird?" He continued. "That's equal parts Kei and Tsume-san, but then that's kind of our thing too, ain't it?"

Hana couldn't help but smile at that. He had a point. Their relationship had always thrived on a healthy dose of friendly competition and the unexpected. A night surrounded by boisterous colleagues and friends celebrating a milestone, suddenly sounded less like a burden and more like a quirky, unforgettable experience.

"Alright," she conceded, a playful glint mirroring Kayo's. "But you're making breakfast. And no ramen for you either."

"Damn, I gotta cook too?" Kayo threw his hands up in mock defeat. "Aright, deal! You drive a hard bargain. You're lucky you're gorgeous." He joked.

Hana laughed, the disappointment from earlier forgotten. This was all unexpected, the evening was shaping up to be interesting, outside of mission assignments, for once. Feeling her hand idly caressed by Kayo's fingers, she felt a thrill for the night of unexpectedness course through her. Maybe a little weirdness, something different, was exactly what she-they needed.

"Alright, little brother. Let's head out, still a long day ahead of us… Hana, Kiba." Kei greeted the Inuzuka siblings with a nod as he stopped to collect his brother after Hana and Kayo's conversation. Impeccable timing, as usual for someone of Kei's nature.

However, Kei was greeted with everyone looking oddly at the sight of him carrying a sleeping Naruko on his back.

"A wild 'Sleeping Naruko' has appeared…" Kayo echoed, amusement lacing his voice as he referenced a popular culture icon. "Must be pretty rare."

"Oh, you're a fucking riot." Kei sighed, shaking his head. "Our energetic little blonde here spent all night burning through chakra. She practically begged me to help her review 'til late…graduation jitters. You two, however, have 'work' to do before any celebration begins," he added, giving Kayo a pointed look. "We talked about this, your responsibility. That means you're waking her."

"Oh, joy, and she's such a beauty when her sleep is interrupted." Kayo deadpanned, rolling his eyes playfully as he regarded Hana and Kiba. "Looks like our free time just ended. Oh, and congrats Kiba. Don't forget what we spoke about, bring Kiba too." He nodded, sending Hana a wink.

"Sure thing," Hana responded somewhat absently, a hint of curiosity flickering in her eyes. The sight of Kei carrying Naruko sparked a question. Did her mother, or even the council, know about the brothers' bond with the jinchuriki? Usually anything involving Naruko was a sensitive matter, after all.

Kiba gained Hana's attention when he suddenly spoke as the two departed. "Man, she was so close to washing out before the break. Now she's completely different." Kiba voiced, beginning to leave as well. "Oh well, guess we should head home ourselves?"

"Sure." Hana nodded absently. She replayed Kiba's words in her head and made a mental note of it. Perhaps she could get Kayo to spill about Naruko after a little feminine convincing. "Hmm…"

W×V×Ø

Early in the evening, Kei strolled into the Hokage's office, a mischievous smirk on his face as he leaned in the doorway. "Looking sharp, old man."

Sarutobi's gaze snapped up from his paperwork, annoyance flashing in his eyes. His assistant rushed in behind Kei the very next second, red faced and stammering, "I-I told you Hokage-sama..!"

Sarutobi cut her off with a raised hand. "It's fine. This visit was... anticipated. Thank you, you may leave."

As the door clicked shut, Sarutobi fixed Kei with a stare that held equal parts exhaustion and wary suspicion. "Your theatrics grow tiresome, Kei-san. Whatever excuse you offer this time."

Kei looked at the stack of paperwork he had yet to get through compared to the stack going out, and shrugged, taking a seat across from the Hokage with an air of practiced nonchalance. "Only just now?" He scoffed. "I'd have gotten sick of my shit ages ago."

He chuckled, then paused, the smile fading. "Then again, I know you had eyes on me earlier, with that little crystal ball of yours. Your words hold some truth in that case." Kei's eyes narrowed when Sarutobi had no immediate response.

Kei nodded to himself, clicking his teeth together. "Don't play with me, old man. You promised her, and then bailed." His voice dropped, the previous annoyance replaced by a flicker of accusation. "I respect you, but I don't respect you enough to let you pull wool over my eyes."

A muscle twitched in Sarutobi's jaw. "I was... occupied, you understand more than most." He replied, a hint of guilt in his tone. He quickly shifted the focus. Best to push forward, lest Kei kick around all evening.

"So? How is she?" The question was laced with caution – he knew Kei played a role in Naruko's increasing distance, and while part of him welcomed it, he couldn't shake an underlying unease.

He feared Kei discouraging Naruko's budding friendship with his grandson, Konohamaru, an innocent bond that had nothing to do with him nor Kei or his younger brother. He didn't want his mistakes or lack there of affecting that.

Thankfully, Kei was one of his more pragmatic ninjas, unlikely to take petty actions for petty attention or reasons. Despite their mildly contentious relationship, Kei always moved with blunt honesty. Their occasional verbal spars were strangely refreshing amidst the landscape of everyday politics Sarutobi usually waded through-keeping him on his toes. Put that way, he had a measure of respect for the man, if not a certain amount of trust.

Kei met Sarutobi's gaze unflinchingly, the thoughtful glint in the Hokage's eyes not going unnoticed. "Hokage-sama," he said, his voice a low reminder, "Some things stand apart."

"True enough, I suppose." Sarutobi admitted with a small nod. Kei looked expectantly at the old leader, waiting for him to continue, but more words weren't forthcoming.

Instead, an unwelcome silence stretched between them, heavy and tense. It was a silent duel of wills, each man studying the other, searching for weakness or a hint at their true intentions.

"Might as well be talking to a wall," Kei muttered, finally answering the unspoken question. "The girl... she's doing fine, better than the finest finest." he shrugged dismissively.

"She'll just have to get over it. Blondie's mature enough to understand that certain responsibilities have to be fulfilled, even at the cost of a personal promise... but you won't get endless chances with her. And despite her understanding nature, especially in regards to you, she's always going to be disappointed." He rubbed his eyes, a flicker of something resembling genuine concern passing over his face.

"Just know that she's also onto the lies about her heritage, so be warned. You might wanna switch some things up." Kei leaned forward, gesturing between himself and the 3rd… a challenging flicker shooting through his eyes. "And I could push harder, you know." He said cryptically.

Sarutobi exhaled a cloud of smoke, the scent of hickory heavy in the air as he lit his smoking pipe and gave his own cryptic reply. "There's certainly a method to your madness, I'll grant you that." He left the unspoken accusation hanging in the air – treason was treason, no matter how neatly packaged.

Sarutobi chose to reserve judgment on any decisive action as this little situation between them had been fluid thus far. So long as everything between them remained at an even keel.

Well…as even as it could be considering Kei stood as himself and he stood as Hokage with the might of a ninja village's military and the support of a Daimyo - however flakey that could be. Though, he wasn't too quick to deny himself the potential usefulness of having a destructive, disruptive enforcer like Kei at his disposal, aimed directly at those who sought to undermine his rule. He hadn't had that benefit in a long while, he'd been spoiled by the long list of larger than life talent he previously oversaw throughout his rule.

Kakashi held too much influence, that was the real reason he was pulled from ANBU, couldn't risk sentiment swaying after Jiraiya and Tsunade grew a conscience and clued in Orochimaru. That mess, after Kushina and Minato. Shishui and Itachi had been his last two, and Danzo threw the wrench in that. Now, Kei…perhaps Kayo held the potential but it was far too early to tell. Interesting…he'd never noticed how just this thing happened in pairs - look into that, he noted.

Personally, Kei was aware that this 'blackmail' of the Hokage mostly existed because the old leader allowed it, for the same reasons the Hokage were considering now. It was more like a soft blackmail, if such a thing existed.

"Alright, it's been a long day, son…and it's getting longer. So, Naruko aside, let's move forward productively." Sarutobi set his pipe down, a silent signal of shifting gears, thoughts stored.

Kei sensed the subtle opening and grinned. The Hokage merely returned a knowing smile, waiting for Kei to make his move. "So, if you're amenable, maybe we could–"

"One moment." Sarutobi raised a hand, cutting him off. With a flicker of chakra, the single ANBU concealed in the room vanished at the subtle gesture.

Kei watched the Hokage dismiss his ANBU with a raised eyebrow. Unexpectedly, he hadn't cared about their presence. Their meetings usually adhered to a familiar pattern, a tense dance of veiled threats and hidden agendas made before operators who were all too acclimated to overhearing backdoor negotiations. This hinted at a shift in the dynamic.

Trust? Not a chance. He knew Sarutobi could toss him to the wolves on a whim, sacrificing him to appease others if it proved convenient and beneficial, sure enough. It wouldn't solve the problem, of course.

The 'Midorinami', the great Green Wave wouldn't stand for it. This wasn't a convenient, bland rebrand that only implied improvement over the 'Whirlpool Group' previously whispered about outside Konoha. This new title held a velvet touch of obscurity for a reason, one that would slice with the edge of one-thousand blades. Kei could only imagine what progression was made that caused the jump to part-2 of their plans.

The Uzumaki entrusted him implicitly with this game of espionage with Konoha, and Naruko most importantly. More than a mere messenger, they saw something in him – a pragmatism, a willingness, perhaps even recklessness, to act where others hesitated.

And for all that, Kei wasn't inherently good nor needlessly cruel. More neutral-chaotic, but he possessed the necessary ruthlessness, a most brutal edge, also tempered by a deep understanding of the larger picture.

He was ready to do whatever was necessary, when it was necessary, for better or worse. This was his home, even as tattered as his pride in it was, and he wouldn't let outsiders destroy it. The consequences of inaction were clear. There was a time to act, a time to do nothing, and a time to pay the price.

"We understand each other. No one unduly harasses Naruko or your brother, as long as I play my part, that's easily done." Sarutobi said, a veiled threat behind the words. "Just remember the sword cuts both ways."

The old Hokage might hold the official power, but Kei had shown a willingness to target those who undermined Konoha from within, the corrupt figures who threatened its true stability in favor of alternative agendas. Especially as their games threatened to harm his own goals, both directly and indirectly.

"Sounds good," Kei said, idly inspecting his fingernails. "On a side note, be prepared for Mizuki to... vanish soon."

Sarutobi scowled. "That walking disaster. Iruka said he no-showed the graduation."

"He's not gone for good, yet. We know he's been in contact with black market sources, shopping offers for the fake Forbidden Scroll, and he had contact with Naruko as recently as a week ago," Kei added with an unsettling chuckle. "Got a bead on everyone he contacted and intended to contact. I got some bait pretending to be him, we'll see where it goes. Guy's so stupid he never stopped to consider if the theft had been too easy to not be a setup." He snorted. "Shoulda seen his face when it finally dawned on him. Thanks for the support on that, by the way. A bargain at twice the price." He clicked his tongue, winking.

"You say that, but I've never had my Cryptology Department complain about how tedious something was until that, and everything they do is tedious." Sarutobi sighed, pipe in hand. "Just... clean up after yourself. Don't make me look incompetent," Sarutobi warned. "Now, let's get back to the main reason for this meeting. What's the play you have in mind?"

"Nothing much this time, nepotism mostly. A little say in team assignments. I know you've chosen your preferred Jonin to instruct these most recent graduates…" Kei spoke before releasing a short yawn.

Sarutobi blinked, not expecting team assignments to have been a focus. It was possibly on the list of things Kei was least likely to ask for, so something must've happened. Truthfully, there wasn't much he could do about it now.

"That's all?" He asked, understanding this would have to do with Naruko. It seemed a small pittance compared to any number of other requests he could've made. "Hm, let me guess… This is about Naruko… and perhaps your brother." He acknowledged.

Kei snapped his fingers. "Got it in one, Professor-sama." He smirked, pointing at Sarutobi. "Haha, just don't hold me for the nepotism. Shit, you got a son and a grandson…you know how it is. Way I see it, Kayo has a bit too much free time and a lack of focus. He's giving most of his time to that girl of his, had to force him into the shop tonight. That boy has a problem with multitasking, you see…" Kei sighed, gray eyes turning dull and smokey as he stared down his village's Kage.

Sarutobi cleared his voice, banishing the memory of Itachi from the similarity Kei's emotionless gaze invoked just then. "I think that would be a good thing, unless..?" Sarutobi asked.

"Nah, I'm just being a nosey older brother. I couldn't care less, but it's a world tradition you see." Kei idly scratched at an itch to his arm. "Admittedly, Hana's a wild card in all this. But Tsume clearly likes that brother of mine, so there's possible outside implications," Kei explained. "It's starting to become a whole…thing." He waved his hand in the air nonsensically before scoffing, amusement evident in his expression. "Like a family adopting an endearing and loveable, but troublesome pup who won't learn to stop pissing in the house."

Sarutobi refrained from laughing, funny as that image was, he coughed lightly into his hand to gather himself. "I see. Tsume-chan rarely gives her blessing for anything." The 3rd Hokage chuckled. "Maybe you should let her handle your worries if this really is an adoption, hm?"

"Like that woman ever gave me a choice!" Kei laughed, he'd be mad if it weren't so damn interesting. "You know that saying? The one about god laughing at man's plans…"

"Hm," Sarutobi nodded.

"More like man plans and woman laughs. Tsume stole my little bro, put a bow on it. Now Kayo's working the kid out here and there. And I doubt Kiba or Kayo realizes what's even happening." He paused thoughtfully. "And Hana's more like Tsume than she wishes to admit." Kei smiled ironically. He'd cry about the wrench in his plans later.

Sarutobi gave Kei a dubious look. "And you didn't see that coming?"

Kei half laughed. "Moving on…" He cleared his voice for what he was about to admit. "Iruka… kinda let me know that Naruko would be teamed with Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno for the new iteration of Team 7."

"He did what!" Sarutobi exclaimed, flabbergasted and ready to reprimand Iruka for breaking protocol. "He was just recently here with the team lists and recommendations."

"Blame me, Hokage-sama. I kinda sniped him with my…" Kei trailed off, pointing to his smoke gray eyes and increasing Sarutobi's silent ire.

"I'm gonna pretend I didn't hear that from you. So, just…" Sarutobi waved his hand for Kei to continue, not wanting to get off track.

"Regardless, the last Uchiha and Naruko with Kakashi as sensei… I don't even want to think about it given what I know about the Uchiha." Kei grinned, hinting at deeper knowledge. "Kid'll burn the world down just to get a shot at his own big brother. You should really do something about that by the way."

"...Fucking travesty," he mumbled as his gray eyes clouded with thought. "It's a no-go, Hokage-sama. Kakashi had his chances, he ain't so much as acknowledge her existence. I know you were hoping he'd lift the veil on our girl's heritage, take some of that burden off your shoulders, but I don't see it." Kei's voice hardened, revealing his intense dislike for Kakashi. "Let him have Sasuke, those two were made for each other."

Sarutobi took a deep breath to quell his simmering irritation. Kakashi might've been the name mentioned, but the old Hokage felt the stray accusation at himself weaved within.

Kei assured Sarutobi he didn't hold his lack of due diligence towards Naruko against him, so moments of indignant reminders didn't surprise him. Admittedly, mistakes were made and he couldn't fault Kei for wanting to run with the ball now.

He did have a point, especially with the council's insistence that Kakashi focus almost solely on Sasuke behind the scenes. And Sarutobi loathed the way his advisors repeatedly undermined him, sometimes to his face under the guise of politics. Naruko was just the latest in a string of such examples – they wanted to prove a point to Sarutobi using the girl to harm his position. It was all too obvious they never considered that harming his rule could also harm the village and themselves - probably more than he'd be affected.

The tedious power plays were irksome all the same because it invited chaos and delusion. Luckily, he recognized that he had his own counter for such situations sitting across from him. A little misdirect could prove entertaining. And Kei could be the perfect pawn for him, his personal little chakra-driven ace in the hole.

Espionage was always a double-edged sword, a concept the Hokage suspected wouldn't and probably didn't bother Kei in the slightest.

"For transparency sake, I actually wasn't planning on assigning Naruko to Kakashi, but my hand was pretty much forced. Now you're essentially asking me to let you pull the same trigger. I have to say, you're asking for a hefty dose of trust given the fact you have no meaningful credibility built up with me," Sarutobi said, a hint of feigned disinterest in his voice.

Kei shrugged, not taking the third's honest response to heart. "I think our seeing eye to eye on many things makes up for it. You're better off with me than your own advisors. They protest, conveniently shift between petty plots with minimal gain, try again as if everything's a negotiation using the same old playbook without variance. Rinse and repeat. I'm far less predictable, more open minded, and I can actually help myself." Kei chuckled with a hint of self-deprecation.

"After my dealings with Konoha's Commerce Council I learned which way the wind blows. Hell, your council threatened me when I refused to enter a wholesale agreement with one of their commerce cronies. Nevermind the fact that mine's a custom boutique! And they can take their collective bargaining agreement and shove it." He sighed. "But I digress. All that aside, how do you see this playing out, Hokage-sama?"

"I think you'll be pleased, but in return… Let's just say I'll need your help in- ahh, navigating the council's... enthusiasm in the near future." Sarutobi's words were measured.

"Right, right. But in what way?" Kei leaned forward, curiosity piqued.

"I need to regain control of my council. I might be running the show, but they've stopped listening while still pulling the levers. I have a few ideas for it, but nothing concrete yet. This will mean a favor down the line and I'll tell you upfront that it'll more than likely outweigh what I'm willing to give you now. I can't use ANBU for reasons that should be clear. That is the price." The Hokage's old features became outlined by a serious expression.

Kei shrugged. Even if the Hokage's future request was steep, this was a chance to make his own life a little easier later down the line. Instant gratification was so short lived. "Sure," Kei sighed, "I'm in." His quick agreement took Sarutobi by surprise as Kei ran his hand through his hair coolly.

The Hokage hummed thoughtfully.

"Don't get me wrong, I don't think it'll be easy, but these idiots are beginning to annoy me. They're always so irritatingly smug. Besides, the enemy of my enemy..." Kei trailed. "So yes, I'm on board," he confirmed again with a nod.

The Hokage nodded in return. "Then we have an accord. Now, tell me exactly what you were thinking."

"My first thought was to seek your favor to allow my little brother and I to apprentice young Naruko. Given the current climate, however, it's clear that ain't happenin'. So rather… I'd appreciate you having Kayo as a fourth on Naruko's team. Kayo's a little older as a Genin, but that experience will be a benefit to any team and take some weight off the sensei." Kei explained, sounding as if he had it all worked out.

Kei thought, then added, "I don't hold anything against Genma for his evaluation. True, he misjudged my brother's potential at the same time he mishandled his team test…" Kei trailed, removing a stray strand of metallic blue hair from his face. "I was sure he wouldn't bother with a personal test, but maybe he wasn't ready for that responsibility."

He sighed to continue, "and then he was slow to own up to his mistake. Kayo got a raw deal because of it, but I've since charged it to the game." Kei sounded at ease, but Sarutobi could tell he was holding onto some animosity still.

"He set a terrible precedent that day, but it's one that no one wants to think about." Kei's voice rose slightly.

The Hokage was well aware. He knew that was a sore spot for Kei. It should have been a day for him to express brotherly pride in his little brother beginning his career with a promising start. And if Sarutobi knew anything about Kei, it was that he took his bonds seriously and treated them with religious devotion.

What made the situation so unfortunate was that Kayo and Genma hadn't been the only two affected. Konoha experienced minor ripple effects of that event.

That year had been an unpredictably weak year for Academy graduates due to a lack of clan entrants, of no fault to the civilian entrants. The only clan kids that came out that year was Hana Inuzuka and a couple others and there just weren't enough openings for all the Inuzuka graduates for tracking or medical teams. Three successful teams overall, all since disbanded, and Kayo's team should've been a fourth. Talk about a down year.

The resulting fallout hadn't been a big deal and the Hokage had thought it blown out of proportion and long forgotten. But then he hadn't considered Kei's feelings on the matter.

"A ninja's supposed to…"

"Okay, okay. Please, it's been a couple years now." Sarutobi sighed, but Kei grinned to hear the Hokage's words. "Drop the baggage already."

It seemed the old man was keeping himself relatable while proving his moniker of 'The Professor' true to life. Professors did nothing if not study and Kei almost laughed out loud imagining the old Hokage studying a book on modern day phraseology and terminology.

Ignorant to Kei's inner thoughts, the old Hokage set down his pipe after tapping the ashes out of it as he continued speaking. "...And also, all things being fair, don't you think you're a bit biased here?"

Kei shrugged, a mix of amused defiance filling his smokey gray eyes. "Of course I'm biased! That's my little brother… My beloved. That's kinda the point." The Hokage gave Kei a flat look, but didn't comment.

Sarutobi just shook his head, choosing to push their meeting forward. "Anyway… I know all my ninja, but I can't very well keep track of every little thing. So, let's just focus on the solution." The old man chuckled at Kei's petulant expression being thrown his way. It was a stark contrast to his usual confidence and bravado.

Kei nodded. "Fine. You take control, I trust you that much. You already have my piece."

The Hokage chuckled to himself as he considered their discussion.

An apprenticeship for Naruko was absolutely out of the question, there wasn't a justifiable reason or excuse for going that route, real or fabricated. And the rogue elements of his council would cry favoritism and likely a slew of far less flattering things that wouldn't help any of them. No, it'd be too obvious, and Naruko needed to be around her peers, other young ninja, and positive influences that an apprenticeship would hinder.

Mind made up, Sarutobi addressed a patient Kei with his answer. "You already know I wouldn't agree to an apprenticeship, not under these circumstances. But the other thing is very doable, just leave it to me. Tell your brother to report to the Academy tomorrow with the new graduates," Sarutobi agreed, masking a smile.

Kei looked genuinely surprised. "Just like that?"

Sarutobi raised an eyebrow. "Just like that. Why? Is there a problem?"

"Not at all. I just... Well, it doesn't matter. I'll be sure to let him know not to make you regret the decision. Can't have our Hokage losing face on our account." A hint of mirth in Kei's voice. "To that end I'll be making sure Kayo shows his thanks for this, especially given all the bitching he's made me suffer."

"Indeed, that would be a wise precaution and greatly appreciated." Sarutobi said, chuckling with great amusement at Kei's candor as the tension previously filling the office cleared.

A sharp knock echoed at his office door. "Come in!" he commanded.

Three Jonin filed into the room, their focused expressions causing Kei and Sarutobi to exchange a silent look. Kei mentally cursed, having wanted to be gone before now.

He didn't miss a beat as he stood to his feet with a bow. "Well then, Hokage-sama… I appreciate your taking the time. Good talk." He chuckled to himself as the Hokage responded in kind, dismissing him before addressing the three.

"Kurenai… Been a minute, congrats on becoming a Jonin instructor, yeah?" Kei acknowledged the woman as he made his way out.

"Oh, thanks, um…" The woman trailed off trying to remember his name. His face was familiar but the name eluded her.

"Ouch." Kei feigned being hurt, but smiled.

"She does that," Asuma muttered. However, unbothered, Kei didn't bother addressing the man. Kakashi snickered, an orange book stuck to his one-eyed face. One hand situated firmly in his pants pocket.

Kei put on a winning smile nonetheless. "Kei…Kuria." He said simply. "Asuma, Kakashi…" He regarded, proceeding on his way.

"Kei, right!" She said slowly, her eyes filling with recognition while also blushing in mild embarrassment at having forgotten his name.

Kei frowned and shook his head. "Don't pretend…" He acknowledged everyone and made his way out the door. "Well, I'm off. Remember me fondly."

"Why does he always say that?" Asuma sighed.

"Damn!" Kurenai bit her lip. "That's why he seemed so familiar, only ninja I ever met with a sign-off."

"So then…" Kakashi mused, lowering his book. "You still didn't recognize him after he gave his name…again, and he busted you in real-time."

"You better not tell him that, Kakashi." Kurenai ground out, smiling threateningly.

The Hokage brought everyone's attention back to him, silently thankful for the ninja's tact until even that little bit caused a distraction. "Focus people…" He sighed. "Here are your team assignments. Review them, and let me know if you have any questions."

Kayo Kuria was now assigned to Kurenai's team alongside Naruko and Kiba, while Shino was shifted to Kakashi's team. The old leader idly wondered what the response would be once the information made its rounds.

'I agreed to help, but I never specified how. Let's stir the pot a bit though, council be damned,' Sarutobi thought with a mischievous glint in his eye. 'I have to get my fun in somehow…'

W×V×Ø

"I'm gone need you to get over yourself, shorty." Kayo smacked the gum in his mouth with some frustration, referencing the blonde girl before him as he filled a saucer with some unlabeled sake and put it down on the table in front of Naruko.

"I'm tired of your shitty nicknames." She muttered, looking him up and down with distaste. "And your fucked accent too…" She glanced at the saucer, shifting her blue and purple eyes back to Kayo to level him with a glare.

Kayo hummed throatily, chewing his gum. "I'm going to shove that down your throat if you keep pouting. Or we can have another one of our parody plays because…"

Kayo transformed himself into a mirror image of the pouting girl. "Hokage-sama ain't come to play with me." He… she cried, hands feeling up her chest suggestively before turning back to himself. "You got some fetish you need to come to terms with? If so, get over it…right now."

"Fuck you," Naruko mumbled, still pouting but picking up the saucer and smelling the alcohol. She shuddered at the smell and looked back at Kayo skeptically.

Kayo released a laugh. "Yeah, that's how it starts." He scoffed, then frowned. "And fuck your mother. I ain't here for the coddling. You're the one who wanted the veteran experience." He sighed, watching her. "No one can simulate you into being battle tested, this is the other half. Behind the veil. Now drink it, for fucks sake."

Kayo sat down in a chair beside the table and drank a bit from the bottle. He shivered a bit as the drink went down, warming his insides. "The real fun ain't even started yet. You asked for this, so what happened to that enthusiasm?"

Naruko shrugged and drank down the liquid held in the saucer before putting it down, blinking as if waiting for something to happen.

Kayo nodded, predicting that. "So much for getting a baseline. Here, drink the rest of that." He put the container he'd just drank from down in front of her and got up to go back in the kitchen.

"All of it?" She asked, picking it up and feeling the weight of the liquid inside. "You hardly drank any though?"

"Don't worry about it," He told her as he came out of the kitchen grinning wildly. His arms were filled with several magnum sized bottles. "We're good on all that." He said, chuckling.

"What the he-..." Naruko watched as he set the bottles of sake on the table.

"You said you were ready, right?" Kayo grinned, lifting one of the massive bottles with both hands. "If not, I won't like it, but I'll have Kei cancel this coming out thing. It ain't a tradition otherwise."

"Think about it though…we did that crazy training with Kei, the extra academy stuff, the village stuff, and the practical stuff. Missions will eventually cover the other end of the real-world stuff, this," he gestured at the bottles, "this is the other half." He took a deep swig directly from the bottle neck, gasping as the rice wine hit.

"Stick with me, kid…" He swallowed, wiping his mouth. "You'll go far." He joked, affecting the tone of a cartel boss.

Naruko watched him, then mimicked his actions. The alcohol burned, making her choke and cough. "Definitely not water!"

Kayo laughed, a little breathless himself. "Seriously though, Big brother's impressed, proud, you know he is." He leaned back in his chair. "You know by now how hard it is to get any sort of compliment out of him, he pretty much gives it freely now…to you, anyway."

"I think it's cause you wanted to be worked harder since they underestimated you. Well, you did it. We all pushed ourselves at the same time because we couldn't ask you to do something we weren't willing to. You doing that earned his respect, and Kei's a madman – he invents grudges and rivalries just to motivate himself. You had to hold back in the Academy, but now... I can't wait to see their fucking faces." He laughed deeply.

Naruko beamed, pride swelling inside her despite the burn of the alcohol. She took another swig, opening her own bottle.

"Oh, right!" Naruko exclaimed with a wide grin. "Tonight's kind of a big deal for you too, huh? Is the General Corps really that bad?"

Kayo stared at her, expression blank, completely unblinking. Naruko squirmed under the stare. It was unnerving as all hell. Kayo sighed, taking another swig from the bottle. The potent rice wine hit hard, making him cough and his eyes water.

"You okay?" Naruko asked, concern evident in her voice. "Is it that bad?"

"No… I guess not, but that depends on one's goals, I guess." Kayo sucked his teeth, not wanting to give the wrong impression. "It's just, individuality kinda gets thrown out the window. You become a cog in a larger machine of many moving parts, another one of many. My pain point was the lack of freedom because it's all about structure first, but I can't say I didn't improve from the experience. They love a ninja with good fundamentals." He shrugged.

He admitted, "Its purpose and importance can't be understated. It's a crucial military arm in sustaining the village's standing, image, and whatnot… only more generally, that is."

"Never thought about it until then, but not everyone can be a Hokage, a legendary Sannin, or even an average Jonin… nevermind an elite. Kei says no matter the position- the focus, the drive, the dedication, and the loyalty should remain fierce all the same. And he's right because that's how most go, but the truth hits hard, and most are satisfied to earn a living, serve the village, and hope for a career that lasts longer than the life expectancy average of 2-and a half years. ''Kayo shrugged. "But I'm hard-headed and that just ain't gonna cut it for me, my lady." He winked, a silly grin on his face.

"And when put like that, how many shots does one person get to prove themselves..?. And no matter what Kei says, nothing will make me feel differently about it." He shrugged again. "Guess we'll see..."

Naruko winced. "What kinda attitude is that though?" She slammed her bottle down, aggravated. "You put me through hell and now you're not even sure–"

"We're not promised shit, Naruko. You know that more than anyone." Kayo cut off his blonde charge. "Don't misunderstand me. I'm confident, but you can only control what you can control." Kayo sighed. "And you don't worry about me. You, fresh Genin here, is the real concern!" Kayo grinned, the insult a joke towards the general consensus about rookie Genin. That they were unreliable due to a lack of experience, if not woefully ill prepared for the challenges of the real world.

Naruko giggled heartally while flipping him the bird. "Fresh, yes, but not new!"

"Ha!" Kayo scoffed, laughing. "Cute words." He winked lasciviously, "Just make sure you back that up, someone may take advantage if you don't." He suggested, reminding her of someone's particularly rabid interest.

Naruko rolled mismatched hued eyes, giving Kayo a worthy retort. "Weak words from a jealous man." She threatened, eyes flashing scarlet.

They stared silently at each other, faces flushed. "HA! Hahaha!" They both burst out laughing together.

Both teens laughed like a couple of loons. "Keep that energy right there and you can't go wrong. Everyone who thinks they can get away with it already tries you, like that Academy moron we snatched."

As the laughter died down again, Naruko blinked with mild curiosity. "Hey, do you know anything about our Jonin-instructor, Kurenai-sensei?" She asked, taking another swig in unison with her vassal.

Kayo, eyes half-lidded, and the alcohol long since starting to kick in, shook his head lightly. Noticing this, Naruko felt she had a ways more to go before reaching his level. She had the light, warm feeling but the addition of feeling fuzzy headed had yet to arrive.

Kayo wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. "Nah, not anything that isn't public knowledge. Kei has worked with her before, but he wouldn't tell me shit. All we have to go on is that she's Konoha's top Genjutsu specialist – folks call her the 'Genjutsu Mistress' outta respect for her talent in that department, pretty high praise. She was promoted to Jonin some months ago. And before that, she taught at the Academy. Oh, and she's a stunner, but that's not saying much, that's nearly all kunoichi." He winked at Naruko as a grin split his lips.

"Mhm." She acknowledged skeptically as her vassal's tone suggested an appreciation for her own appearance while comparing another.

"Anywayyy," the blonde trailed, moving the discussion forward. "How is that possible when you and your brother both have your dojutsu awakened? Especially since Sasuke hasn't even activated his yet." The blonde found herself tilting her head in question when Kayo shook his head.

"Ours…doesn't count. We craft illusions. The bloodline has similarities with Genjutsu, but are completely different in function, ours is more physically tangible than mental, but we can weave influence. Unfortunately, it don't concern me, cause I'll never be able to use mine." Kayo admitted bitterly. "A rare defect ruined my bloodline upon activation. I have the gray eyes of the Illusion Eye, and you've seen how they change color, but that's part of the defect. Coloration that allows me minor intuition or personal expression." He sighed. "Just keep that between us, okay? You're the only one who knows besides bro."

"That's awful, I'm sorry… I didn't know" Naruko mumbled. As she nodded, a melancholic smile in tact, she swore, "Of course, it's our secret." She nodded assuringly. "I mean… you and Kei are like- family, to me…" The blonde mumbled low, her cheeks pinkening as she bashfully made the admission.

Kayo smiled in appreciation. 'God, she is too cute right now.' He thought to himself as the girl's honest words and expression made his heart throb pleasantly. The feeling was mutual and definitely heartfelt. He wouldn't tell her, but Naruko had taught him just as much as he'd taught her.

She was so in tune with her emotions and her person for someone her age. Everytime Kayo thought he was more honest than most, Naruko showed him there was no limit to being genuine.

As a comfortable silence hovered between the two, he decided to spare Naruko further embarrassment by breaking the silence, but damn if he didn't want to, because she looked adorable shooting him those quick, hesitant peeks with her head and eyes lowered.

He promised himself not to take for granted that Naruko cared what he thought about her. And there was nothing more attractive to him than seeing a strong female showing her natural and instinctive feminine traits as an admission of that. The jinchuriki's actions scream 'female!' right now.

Kayo's eyes closed as he smiled in appreciation and despite the warmth he still felt from her admission, he chose to change the subject. "So, with everything moving faster now, how confident do you feel?" He slid a fresh bottle of sake across the table towards Naruko as they both finished a bottle.

Naruko grabbed it, thinking carefully as she chose her words. "Anxious, but excited… and powerful. Like, I could do anything now." she finally said, her voice quiet, thoughtful.

"I know I'm anxious and excited," Kayo easily admitted with a nod. "But powerful, huh… care to explain?" He pressed, genuinely curious about her reasoning. Articulating themselves clearly was a practice both had taken to in understanding the other more after previous misunderstandings.

After a brief pause, Kayo took another swig and leaned back in his chair, bottle balanced on his thigh. "No need to think too hard about it, you know what you feel." He gently pushed the girl.

Naruko huffed, then shrugged. "Powerful, as in… Better than my classmates, better than anyone who doubted or questioned me, and looked down on me…called me good for nothing, dead last, and insulted me." She grit her teeth feeling some annoyance at the memories. "Definitely powerful enough to make them eat those words." She stared at Kayo with determination and resolve in her eyes.

An emphatic nod from Kayo followed, believing the resolve he saw in Naruko's expression, the sureness with which she spoke. "You're in control." He nodded.

The blonde's eyes dimmed until he could no longer see a difference in either, near to black. "Now, they worry about my every move, their scents mix into something disgustingly pitiful." She scoffed. "Their own doubts and worries will consume them before I ever consider lowering myself to their level."

"And how's that feel?" Kayo asked, the answer already obvious. "Knowing you've risen above them and their petty concerns and fears?"

"Great!" She beamed. "And I feel like a weight's been lifted." She sighed pleasantly, wrapping her arms around her own shoulders, hugging herself.

"That's the way." Amusement filled Naruko's vassal as he shook his head, laughing. "You've grown above them and theirs. They know it instinctively and there's no ignoring it. Your strength, your energy, your scent, the way you carry yourself. What once made them comfortable taking advantage has been turned on its head." Kayo took another swig. "Now you do them more harm by disregarding them. As humans, we have a way of becoming our own worst enemy."

"The merchants hassle you less, right? You never wished them harm. Now, they're being contrary because they can't get a read on you, not only that, but they're hesitant to even try because a noticeable risk is involved. Your ire." He pointed at her.

Naruko nodded. "You're right." Her smile was bright. "The temptation to take advantage of their fear is everything your brother said it would be." She'd be lying if she said she didn't want to return some of the past onto the opportunistic bastards out there.

"Don't be ashamed of that feeling." Naruko looked up with some surprise, not expecting to hear that from Kayo. "I know that feeling and yeah, it's hard to fight. And you would be justified to act on it. I'm just saying…" He trailed off, chuckling. A self-deprecating sound that the blonde couldn't reconcile hearing from the older teen she most associated with arrogance. It sounded wrong coming from him, so much so, her heart squeezed painfully in response.

Kayo sighed, swiping his hand back and forth through his wild hair, and suddenly at a loss for words. "Well… you're better than me, smarter too, you'll know what to do when the time comes." Naruko wasn't sure whether he meant to make that statement sound like a question or not.

Naruko was still building her understanding of what exactly a vassal was, as well as their purpose. She pictured someone that was a confidant of secrets, a supporting presence, and an advisor of sorts. Because Kayo could be rather prolific in his thoughts and views of varying topics when he wanted to be. And more often than not he left her with more questions than he did answers.

She was certain there was something he wasn't saying, but he was obviously done speaking as he stared off into space as if at a loss.

Naruko was about to speak up again, but a knock at the door interrupted her, and pulled Kayo back into the present.

Naruko glanced at the door, then back at Kayo mischievously. "Party time, huh?"

"Damn right!" Kayo hollered back, seemingly recovered as if the moment had never happened. "It's open!" He called out.

The door opened and Kei stepped in. "Well, look at this. You two just couldn't wait." He smirked.

"Anyway, your big brother came in clutch with the guest list." He waved at the doorway, and a crowd of familiar faces followed in. Kayo and Naruko stood to their feet to see who Kei had brought. There was no guest list, this was done at the last minute, but amongst ninja it wasn't hard to spread word of a last second party.

Kurenai, Genma, Kiba, Hana, Yugao... the list went on, including several faces Kayo could happily go without seeing. His eye even twitched at seeing a few of those faces. Kei, attuned to his younger brother's moods and thoughts, beamed and slung an arm around his shoulders.

"Now, now, little brother… What's with that face? Remember, more flies with honey. I ain't invite everyone that's here, but hey, it's a party… A Konoha party." He leaned in, whispering, "And you never know what a little kindness could bring about later."

Kayo gritted his teeth. "Fine. Konoha is Konoha after all." He muttered, forcing a smile onto his face.

"That's what I'm saying! And besides," Kei's voice was low, "who paid for this place, huh? Don't act spoiled, that ain't our way. Now, be a good host. Welcome your guests." A hard pat on the back, then Kei was gone, leaving Kayo to swallow down the bitter truth.

"Is this Konoha's will? All rise..!" Kayo called out.

"All rise!" Everyone gathered responded.

"Does Konoha consent? All rise..!"

"All rise!"

Kayo nodded, acknowledging all gathered. "Blessed be. All rise..!"

"Blessed be!"

"All rise, blessed be. My home is Konoha's home away from home. As are drinks. And all you suckers who brought money, we got game! Your price of admission is to congratulate our new Genin, Naruko. Final blessings at 3am. House rules: you will respect this house, protect this house, and enjoy. Now, let's go!" Kayo clapped his hands energetically.

Everyone joined in, congratulating the blonde jinchuriki all at once. Kayo chuckled as Naruko blushed fiercely as the sole attention getter for the moment. He didn't think he'd ever seen anyone so red in his life.

"'Ruko, put the mood music on," he teased. "You know how to work the player." Naruko started grumbling when Kayo suddenly pulled her into a brief hug. "Congratulations, for real." He whispered to her. "You got a family watching somewhere proudly, I want you to believe that." He pulled away.

Naruko looked up at Kayo, really looked into his eyes - expressionless, she could sense the depths of his emotions beyond his smokey grays as they tinted a pale blue. She didn't know what that color meant, but she smiled as she held out her fist. "I know, and you too." She grinned, feeling his fist press against her own firmly. With a wink, she turned and went to turn on the player.

Kayo watched with a smirk as Naruko mumbled again, having to push her way through the gathering. As the music started, the party kicked off.

"Proud of you, little brother. Well said, all of it." Kei caught his younger brother around his shoulder and kissed the side of Kayo's forehead.

"Yeah, yeah," Kayo muttered as he found himself caught under his brother's large arm. Just then, another knock sounded at the door.

Kei laughed as he let Kayo escape his hold to go answer the door, ready to greet another guest. "Welcome to the—" The words died in his throat as his eyes widened.

"Hokage-sama..." he trailed off. "Uhh, not that I'm complaining, but is this…appropriate?" He cocked his head, thinking. "Not that a leader partying with his subordinates would be a new concept, but—"

The old Hokage smiled and stopped Kayo before he started rambling. "Really? Is that what you truly believe I'm here for?" He asked, amused by Kayo's dialog.

"...Well, I don't know. It'd definitely check off something on my bucket list," Kayo admitted with a nod. "Worth it, for sure… at least I—"

"Son," Sarutobi interrupted again. "You mind if I come in? It's getting on and I'm a busy man, you know," Sarutobi smiled still, but his tone hinted at his patience being tested.

Kayo finally snapped out of his awe, remembering he was speaking to the Hokage as if he'd forgotten.

Kayo laughed through a shocked expression. "Pfft! My bad, my bad! I kinda blanked out there. Come in!" Kayo stepped aside, opening the door wide to let the old man in and closing the door behind him.

The party practically screeched to a halt as everyone spotted their leader all at once. "Hokage-sama!" exclamations rose above the music with some kneeling or bowing.

"Please, everyone, as you were," the Hokage chuckled. "I'm just here to drop off a gift." He cringed slightly as no one moved at first, then hesitantly resumed their conversations.

Kei nodded to the Hokage. "Naruko, someone's here to see you," he said, catching the girl's attention as she was chatting.

"Huh, old man! What are you doing here?" Naruko exclaimed, jolting over, her blonde hair trailing behind her. The Hokage noticed she didn't hug him like usual.

"Naruko," he greeted her. "I wanted to bring you this to celebrate your achievement. A little bird told me you'd be having a…celebration." He glanced at an openly amused Kei standing in the background, grinning. "And I must apologize for breaking my promise," he added regretfully, handing her a small wrapped box. "I'm very proud of you, young lady. I know you'll only achieve more with time and maturity."

"I understand, you're busy," Naruko replied, shrugging while looking down at the box with a smile. "Thank you. But um…" she glanced around, reminding the Hokage of the frozen party.

He cleared his throat. "Open that when you're ready. I'll be off now. Don't forget that tomorrow's the start of your career, so be sure to get some rest." He emphasized.

Kayo opened the door for the Hokage again as the man made to leave. "Awfully kind of you, Lord Hokage. You're a class act, for sure." He nodded approvingly. "And thanks for pulling me out of the General Corps. I won't let you down. Have a good night!"

Sarutobi chuckled. "No problem, and I would expect nothing less than your best effort. Please, keep an eye on her, will you?"

"How could I not? Until next time, Professor-sama." Kayo and Sarutobi exchanged a nod, and Kayo closed the door.

He could hear the music start back up as cheering reverberated into the hall. He laughed as he adjusted his hat on top of his head and started home. "Hahh, the more things change. The more they stay the same." He smiled with his thoughts. There was a smoking pipe, tobacco, and a stiff drink waiting for him back in his office.

"Yo, Kei." Kayo pulled his brother aside as the party kicked off again. "Everything set up for the…know what I mean?" He asked with conspiratorial lingo.

"Mhm, I took care of it." Kei nodded as he looked at Naruko. "I wouldn't have bothered otherwise."

"Should be good." Kayo whispered in response.

"Boy!" Hana barked, Kayo twitched as she made her way over. You can scheme with your brother any time. I remember things being said and I expect some follow through on your end." Hana announced as she leveled a stare on Kei. The older brother conceded, holding his hands up as he backed away without a word.

He looked at Kei as if he were a traitor, but grinned easily. "I don't remember promising anything, I was just making a "for instance" argument.

Hana didn't look amused as she hooked her arm with Kayo's and pulled him down to her height enough to whisper to him. "Don't play with me."

"Best give the girl what she wants, brother." Kei advised, earning an ire filled glare from the brunette. "Oh look, an old friend I haven't spoken to in awhile is calling me over. Small world." That said, he made himself scarce.

Kayo blinked. "...So that happened." His voice was flat as he watched his brother tuck tail and run. "You know, you'd make more friends if—."

"Yeah…no." Now it was Hana cutting him off, shoving her hand in his face. "Just come on, I wanna dance." She said, leading him away.

"So, did ya hear we're on the same team?" Naruko said, sipping a little more sake she and Kayo had started on before, and was now sharing with Kiba.

"Why would I have? That's not supposed to be 'til tomorrow! How'd you find out so soon?" Kiba asked as he tried some of the sake the blonde handed over as they stood in the kitchen with a few others.

Naruko shook her head with a conspiratorial grin. "A little bird told me." Her smile widened.

"Solved! It was her boy toy she's always with." Ten-Ten smirked, nodding in Kayo's direction as he danced quite intimately with Hana. This, the brunette's attempt to instigate an embarrassed reaction and maybe some idle girl talk.

"Oh yeah?" Ino said, picking up on the older girl's intentions. From being in the Academy together, Ino knew it was almost impossible to embarrass Naruko. The blonde held herself together almost too well. Therefore, she wasn't too disappointed when the blonde's reaction was only an emotionless blink of the eyes.

Naruko shook her head. "Yeah, no. I'll admit to a very, very short lived crush when we first met. Kayo's pretty cool, but he's really more like-..."

"Oh, don't say brother. That's so cliche now, any girl who says that about a non-relative guy, it's pretty much a guarantee they end up dating." Ten-Ten sighed, hand going to her forehead. "Know what? Go ahead and say it." She smirked after realizing what she said.

"Well, it's true!" Naruko argued, huffing at the wild accusation and sounding a little annoyed. "An arrogant, talented, nosey and annoying older brother…" Struggling to explain, with Ino and TenTen looking skeptical, even humoring her with unconvincing nods - she sighed and nodded at Kiba's direction. "Kiba knows what I mean, damnit."

Kiba scoffed, looking around at the gathering. "No shit. Just don't let my sister hear you say that, lest they start double teaming us. Ain't enough to make them mad, but they're both just as petty."

Kiba's words summoned a pretty hilarious image to Naruko's mind, one she started laughing openly at. "That's going to be hard to forget." She said, tearing up with laughter.

"One day I'll learn to just, not say anything." Kiba sighed to himself. He was one thing, but Naruko was twice the motor mouth he could ever be. So, the teen gave himself a couple days before Hana or Kayo were clued into this little exchange, and estimated there would probably be about a week or more of damages to make up for it.

Ino blinked, focusing back on the conversation taking place ahead of her.

"What's more, he's steady with Kiba's sister. So, it's moot. And Kei don't count because everyone, and I mean everyone has a crush on Kei," Naruko shook her head with a nonchalant shrug. "Sometimes, what you see is really just that." Naruko smirked, an image in her mind of someone that she had a great desire for. And she wouldn't be sharing that.

"Tell 'em again, Naruko. In case they didn't hear you the first time." Kiba suddenly spoke up. "I'm standing right freaking here, so stop instigating!" Kiba narrowed his eyes on both girls. "The team thing, you gonna tell me?" He snorted, getting back to the initial topic.

"Oh, right. It's me, you, Hinata, and Kayo as a fourth." Naruko listed off.

"Four?" Sakura asked, blinking curiously, and having been satisfied to watch and listen awhile. Iruka hadn't mentioned anything about any teams having four members…or anything at all, really. Every announced team consisted of three members when she thought about it. And Sakura was nothing if not well read, with all the benefits of an eidetic memory. History books weren't a great source for team dynamics, but even still there were glossed over references to teams that weren't so typical.

One man army's, pairs, threes, and teams in number of upwards of 6 to 12. The results of a lack of resources on the low end, and a heightened political climate on the high end. Even still, a lot of those incarnations had a situational or strategic reasoning that couldn't be helped. And most of them were one offs. Immediate disbandment, no matter success or failure.

Shikamaru and Choji stepped over to join the group, overhearing the last of the conversation. "It's not entirely unheard of now that I think about it, it just hasn't happened in the 4th and 5th generations. "Interesting to consider the type of missions you'll get assigned." Shikamaru further voiced.

"Huh, I didn't think about it like that." Naruko said thoughtfully. "More missions, or…more difficult assignments!" She said excitedly, envisioning something grand, and the twinkle in her eyes caused the others to shake their heads. She knew the why, but this kept her from having to explain anything at all.

"I don't think Shikamaru meant it to be taken so simply," Chouji laughed.

Kiba took another drink for himself, shrugging nonchalantly. "That's fine with me, Kayo's pretty good, and honestly, it increases our chances of success. I can't even get a clean hit on him." Kiba grinned.

"Because you suck," Sakura teased, finding an open chance to make Kiba mad.

"It's always you or Ino screwing with me, you ain't so great yourselves. Following around the Uchiha like cheap s-..."

"Hey-yo! Everyone over here having a good time? Y'all are kinda just standing around." Kayo cut in suddenly, coming up behind Kiba and catching him around the shoulder with his arm.

"Great, that's great!" He smiled a big white smile, eyes closed, when he heard a round of positive responses and seeing that no one had any complaints. He shifted his focus back to Kiba. The boy's boisterous tone was easy for Kayo to catch despite the noisy atmosphere. Hearing the irritation in his voice from across the room, Kayo decided to step in just as Kiba was about to…cross the line with an overblown response. He couldn't let that fly, especially not in his home.

Kiba liked blowing a gasket over the smallest of things. If he kept up like this Kayo was sure he'd end up an incel or something. And he refused to let it happen on his watch. Kiba was becoming one of his good friend's around the village as of late.

Besides, if he didn't keep his word to Hana to help the boy, Hana would cut him off and if that happened he'd have to murder the guy.

"Keep that heat for the enemies." Kayo patted the younger boy on the shoulder playfully, a wide grin accompanying his words. "Why so much animosity?" He swept an arm around Kiba's shoulder in a brotherly manner.

"How did-..." Sakura began. She'd have been pleased by his words if she wasn't too surprised by Kayo's sudden appearance. She'd been staring right in Kiba's direction and hadn't seen a thing. The pink haired girl glanced around, she was immediately able to tell Ino and the others were equally shocked.

"Don't ask," Naruko grumbled, narrowing her eyes at her vassal as he whispered something to Kiba. "...He won't tell me how he does it." She huffed.

Kayo sighed, his patience sounding worn as Kiba shook his head in denial- whispering still. This made Ino and Sakura wary and curious everytime the older boy glanced up at one of them, smiled, and started whispering to Kiba again.

Finally, the Inuzuka looked taken aback. "Them!?" Kiba exclaimed, sounding surprised, horrified, and morbidly intrigued all at once as he looked up at both girls.

"Whoa, what the hell are you picturing, dog breath?" Ino looked equal parts wary and disgusted as Sakura silently frowned, a disturbed but questioning blink following, although she said nothing.

Kayo huffed. "You…you, you, you." He smiled slightly, but it was strained. "I love you, man. But you ain't making it easy for me, and you got zero tact." He sighed irritably.

"Come and talk with me for a minute, I got something I want you to see." Kayo pulled the boy away, arm still circling his shoulders. He waved, turning his attention back to Kiba.

Ten-Ten had a pretty good idea what just happened, wincing at the results. "He's got his work cut out for him." She laughed before suddenly shifting a frown towards Naruko. "Anyway, are you sharing that or adopting it?" She asked, pointing to the sake Naruko was clutching.

"Oh, sure. Here." She passed over the bottle. "Think I've had my fill for now anyway," passing the bottle over to the brunette, face glowing red.

"Thanks. Unlabeled, no telling where this came from." Ten-Ten said as she returned the bottle back to Naruko. "I'm an orphan like you, so things are a little different for us." The weapons specialist reminded Naruko with a smile. "I think we've both been around a little. No one said it, but this is a coming out party, am I right?" She smiled knowingly.

"Yeah, actually." She nodded. "You know about it?" She asked, surprised.

"Yeah, some older kids that aged out of the orphanage before me put something together since I was the only one of us that made it through the Academy. It was fun, but it wasn't on this level." The weapons user said as she focused on some of the more notable ninja in attendance.

"It might be a small gathering, but the presence alone makes this worth being here for. My sensei isn't here, which was likely purposeful. But you all…" She pointed to the Ino-Shika-Cho trio, Sakura, and Naruko.

"You're at a party where your possible Jonin sensei are, even the Hokage stopped by here. Same goes for Kiba, he said his sister was here too. And I heard that guy with the senbon in his mouth was tight with the 4th Hokage." Tenten smirked mischievously.

Everyone looked shocked except for Shikamaru, Choji, and Naruko.

Ten-Ten blinked, wondering if she should laugh or not. "You… you did think about that, right?" She asked, her eyes narrowing in question.

Shikamaru let out a tired, withering sigh when Ino looked embarrassed. "I explained that to you on the way over here… three times, but…" He sighed again. "It's too troublesome to explain again. I'd rather see if I can get a game of Shogi going." He muttered, wandering off.

Choji couldn't help laughing to himself as he settled for drinking his soda and the snacks he'd brought for himself.

Tenten gazed around, considering, looking for something to get into. She liked to take her time and feel out an environment. 'Hm. Good taste.' The brunette, hair in buns, continued watching without staring. 'Maybe.' She thought, stepping past some of the gathered, disappearing into the throng.

~Meanwhile: Condo Hallway

"Welcome…" Kei bowed, holding himself with a casual seriousness. He sounded genuine in his greeting as he eyed the special invite. Someone he invited secretly, and in agreement with how they wanted to get here without notice.

"I gotta admit, I was uncertain about being able to do this. And despite the cost to make it work, it was worth it for a friend…and a possible new friend." He chuckled, smiling. "I really should've known just how close to the vest you would play it, so thanks for proving me wrong."

The current time ticked around a little past 1 A.M, the celebration slowly but steadily winding down from its peak as 3 A.M grew nearer. Time obscured as beverages were consumed. Engaging conversations had, jokes made, tall versions of war stories weaved, and games played.

The build up to the current hour was as important as the timing, to begin on a high note. He just hoped for the best - no accounting for the path of emotions and circumstance. While he was personally invested, none of this was for his benefit. Least he could do was protect the two. Neither one could afford exposure to rumors, or gossip. They had too much to account for without outsiders getting in their personal business.

This was a thoughtful gesture on his part, a little insurance, although he was uncertain Naruko would appreciate his meddling. Before anything else, he needed to feel out Hinata although she seemed honest enough in their previous conversation.

By all appearances she was a lovely and talented young woman. Her reputation among her own clan spoke volumes, the Hyuga clan having nicknamed her a couple times over, 'Hyuga Demoness' was heard most. However, sometimes a moniker was just that, unable to capture a person as a whole.

Just as an amused, subtly smiling Hinata was about to speak, an explosive outburst interrupted her.

"Ohhh! Snake eyes!" Kayo howled. His boisterousness rang through the door into the hallway. Several groans followed, then Laughter, and bragging followed. "All money in, no money out!"

"Damnit, Genma! How are you so awful at this? This brat's cleaning up! Pass the dice." Anko's frustrated and cocky dialogue followed.

Kei half laughed, coughing to head it off, and trying to clear his voice. The timing of the moment couldn't have been more awful.

"So- your timing's good." He smiled. "The party is just winding down. Eventually anyway." He grinned. "Nothing will kill a party quite like my little brother outdoing his superiors. The only difference this time is that it's intentional." Kei winked conspiringly at Hinata.

The sounds of the party reverberating into the hallway went unheeded as Hinata and Kei silently gauged each other. Though both were connected to Naruko, this was only their second encounter, which lacked any meaningful time to understand one another.

Hinata appeared at ease, a gentle, mirthful smile playing on her lips, and amusement dancing in her lavender eyes. A carefree laugh escaped her as she partially hid behind the antique tessen, held just beneath her eyes. "Well, the evening certainly seems to be lively." She fluttered the fan gently with quick, imperceptible flicks. "Not that I mind it. My clan too has their occasions- only they insist on ruining them with snob and pretension." She rolled her eyes subtly, her tone still pleasantly diplomatic. "...Boring," she added, punctuating her disdain.

"I see, so Demoness-sama is not a clan traditionalist." Kei trailed with some sarcasm in tone. His gray eyes brightened into a hue closer to silver, amusement clear to see.

Hinata feigned shock at hearing the moniker, her eyes turned coy as her lips pulled into a teasing smirk. If Kei was feeling her out, she was willing to play along.

"Really now, Kei-senpai... my-my," Hinata said, adopting a faux tone of disappointment. She snapped her tessen shut and gestured towards him with it. "For shame, comparing this cute, impressionable junior who sees this strong senior as an example to follow and seek guidance from, a demon. I can only believe I've disappointed you so..." Speaking with regrettable melancholy, hand placed to her cheek. "Have I failed my senior so thoroughly, to be labeled so scandalously?" She inquired, her eyes sparkling with an allure of teasing innocence as she snapped the fan open to hide her smile.

Kei snorted, tickled by Hinata's playful banter. "Scandalous, you say? I can only imagine the designs towards that end you've schemed or executed." He quipped.

"Oh, but senpai! Sharing is half the fun!" Hinata exuded brightly, smiling quite adorably. She leaned towards him, swaying forward and back on her heels completing an instant attitude shift. Kei didn't show it, but Hinata's ability to shift from different ends of the emotional spectrum and their extremes without pause or hesitation.

"Hard pass." Kei held his hand up. 'This girl, yo. My god. Hinata's obviously been thoroughly abused. More mentally by far than physically. She's pretty much a multiple personality that she managed to keep herself in control of. That's unheard of, and she's still a baby, so she's not long off the abuse she experienced.' Kei breathed quietly, his heart thrumming as he remained cool on the outside, but as mildly concerned. He may have unintentionally underrated Hinata - Little wonder why her clan can't control her.

Further addressing Hinata... "Inappropriate sexual connotations aside…" He coughed into his hand, calming himself before the little pale eyed devil. "Pretty little thing is not only that, but dangerously strong, but you carry quite the aura in your passive state. It ain't a problem for me…" He shrugged slightly. "I mean, no one ever said that young maidens couldn't help themselves, right?" Kei gestured.

"Prejudice, the average can't understand because they don't want to. Knowledge, responsibility…are stressful, scary…awareness. Knowing… What is and what isn't." Kei air quoted, punctuating the words with two fingers. "Doesn't care about our…whatever. So, that strength you carry so passively. It isn't there for no reason, genetics aside, is a blessing…1 of 1. Utterly unique, and beautifully so." Kei's lighthearted banter had shifted to become meaningful, enlightening, and encouraging. "Little lady, they fear you'll become ravenous. And that's good…it's good they haven't realized you already are."

A single, thin eyebrow angled upwards showing a cautiously pleased gaze. A subtle touch of surprised innocence from Kei's admission expressed by quirked lips. Her surprise and joy in check, Hinata slowly nodded, bowing gently. "I don't deserve the praise your understanding gives. Hinata mumbled quietly as she straightened herself. She continued on before Kei could refute her words.

Few were unbothered by the abnormal strength and quirky personality she cultivated and maintained. The lack of friends didn't bother her per se, she was accustomed to it, but that didn't mean she didn't want acceptance or some semblance of it.

"So, it's Funny that you should mention it…" Kei was silent, prepared to listen as she continued. Hinata's smile widened slightly, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

"After you left the estate earlier," Hinata confessed conspiratorially, holding her fan between them in a manner that dampened their words from traveling. Kei leaned down, leveling his face closer to hers in curiosity. "I just had to know more about you, senpai. You know, since we share specific interests in common." She blushed, bashful cuteness as she looked up at him beneath fine, black lashes. "And following our brief but enlightening meeting, I instructed my assistant delve into your history."

She paused, a calculated blink of her long lashes. Meanwhile, Kei's frown turned curious, but considering. Unbothered by her admission as he expected her to look into him.

"You know, it's interesting that you and Little Brother-senpai share one file of record. When I saw that, I just knew I was right about you. And what I learned was… rather delicious." Hinata's tongue nipped at her lips, wetting them in an audacious display. Kei remained silent, a faint frown, his only response - warning the girl not to get carried away.

"I would love to discuss… "us", at a more appropriate time. And you-yourself carry a burden not so different from my own. It seems your brother only knows so much due to your protection. Rightfully so, as I do the same for my sister." She fanned her tessen over her mouth again, eyeing him closely. "That is how I decided if I would present myself here tonight..." Hinata concluded with a knowing blink, as if her actions were merely a passing fancy.

The tessen collapsed shut, Hinata folded her arms and tapped the fan gently against her shoulder. "You didn't just assume I'd attend this evening for so small a reason," she continued, smirking. "It's nothing I couldn't handle myself." The unspoken implication hung in the air: Hinata wouldn't be dictated to, not even by her own clan. She had her own means, her own methods, her own path, and she would continue with the same unapologetic approach that earned her the moniker "Hyuga Demoness."

"And here I thought I was being clever," Kei chuckled, both amused and impressed by Hinata's confession. "I didn't mean to imply a power dynamic between us. I wouldn't look at Naruko in that way." He couldn't help but admire her cunning though. He didn't expect she'd been strategizing well before he made his move. It was certainly a testament to a sharp mind and mindful tact that she'd need to navigate the intricate social dances of the shinobi world. Plus the high-life society life she'd grown up in as an heiress of a well known and powerful clan, whom many sought favor and involvement with.

A genuine laugh escaped Kei's lips as the irony of the situation hit home for him. This girl, with her delicate features, innocent dough eyes, and gentle smile, was a master tactician. He could envision her moving through the world of politics and power with the grace of a dancer and the mind of a seasoned general. Kei found himself more intrigued than ever.

Everyone was aware the Hyuga clan held little to no sway over Hinata. Not since she began at the Academy at the least. Despite the Hyuga's rigid hierarchy and traditions influencing their stance on things like arranged marriages and political alliances for reach outside of Konoha, Kei figured they'd still maintain some control over Hinata's life. Yet, her carefree demeanor suggested otherwise.

"Senpai truly is just as he presents himself... genuine. Very…down to earth, to borrow a turn of phrase." Hinata murmured, raising her tessen to her face, her pale lavender eyes visible above the delicate fan. She cast a coy glance at Kei. "Previous experiences have led me to believe that anyone else would have felt insulted and simply given up," she confessed, a secretive smile gracing her lips.

Kei shrugged effortlessly, returning her smile with a carefree one of his own. "Not me. Getting angry or feeling insulted because you're smart, or because maybe…I got a little ahead of myself - that would be disrespectful to both of us." He folded his arms again, shaking his head with a playful smirk. "That's the way of the weak, little miss." He punctuated his statement with a wink, the air between them buzzing with a newfound understanding.

Hinata took a half-step forward, her head bowing slightly in a gesture of both apology and invitation. "Still," she murmured, a demure smile gracing her lips, "why don't I make it up to you... respectfully, as my senpai, and to clear the air between us?" Her pale lavender eyes fluttered upwards, meeting his gaze briefly before she calmly extended her free hand towards him.

Kei's eyebrow arched in silent question. This turn of events was unexpected, and he was unsure how to respond.

"Yes?" he asked, his voice a gentle but rough echo of her own as he tentatively offered his hand in return. Hinata's smaller hand disappeared among his, and she began sending raw chakra towards him. After a quiet few seconds, Kei reciprocated. A minute or two passed as they exchanged chakra in this manner until she released her grip, her gaze searching his face for understanding.

A smile bloomed on her face, her fan forgotten as she broke into soft, girlish giggles. It was another transformation that caught Kei off guard, the usually composed heiress revealing more of her playful side, this time not feigned or controlled. He chuckled, still able to feel the coldness in her chakra versus his own.

Kei glanced at his hand, the silent message they conveyed between each other a first for him. A small smile tugged at his lips as understanding dawned on him. "That was unexpected, you knowing this age-old technique for sharing thoughts and emotion." he mused, as he met Hinata's gaze from behind her fan. "But I believe I understand."

He paused, his expression turning more serious as he addressed the unspoken message she had conveyed. "You're right, of course. Our friend would want us to be united."

"And I've seen the damage that meddling can cause," he continued, his voice laced with a protective warmth. "That's not my intention at all." He paused, choosing his words carefully. "The misguided motivations of others. I know it's being overprotective, like you said. I don't have to be, but I feel obligated to. I care a lot more than a damn."

Looking Hinata over, he sensed the vast well of strength hidden within her delicate frame. "Darkness is most attracted to light," he mused with a soft chuckle, his gaze lingering on her. Hinata tilted her head, remaining purposefully silent, her smile widening behind the fan.

"Considering what the spiritual realm teaches us," he continued, idly combing his fingers through his hair, "I suppose it makes sense that you two would be drawn to each other." He raised an eyebrow, amusement lacing his voice. "Is she the brightest light to your blackest dark, Hinata-san?"

Hinata blinked, her cheeks flushing a delicate shade of pink as she mumbled something inaudible behind her fan. "My-my, senpai… so blunt," she chirped, waving her fan playfully.

Kei chuckled. Hinata's enigmatic nature kept him on his toes, and it worked to her slight advantage. "Could be worse, I suppose," he joked. "I could be simple-minded like the rest and choose to misunderstand you." He paused, then added with a playful shrug, "Or would you prefer that, given how easily you manipulate the Hyuga and others?"

"Ah, senpai!" she sighed longingly, lowering her fan from her face. "If only it were that simple…" Her lavender eyes drifted down to her purple-heeled sandals and the hem of her kimono. "However, I did not cultivate this darkness or intentionally hone my potential for it - my clan did so for me." She looked up at Kei from beneath her thick lashes, unable to raise her head out of shame as melancholy filled her eyes.

Kei felt a mighty jolt in his chest, as if struck by lightning. He felt like his heart was splintering like too much cracked glass as a painful squeeze followed Hinata's admission. "I see."

In that moment, a vulnerable beauty radiated from her, striking Kei to his core. Her dark beauty, still blossoming, was highlighted by the dim glimmer of broken hopes in her wide, tear-filled eyes. She was the very image of a perfect mistake, captivating in her sorrow.

The windows of Hinata's soul were flung open, revealing a glimpse within as the hallway fell away around them. Kei saw it all: the slow erosion of a little girl's innocence and naiveté through relentless training in the ways of the Hyuga clan's beliefs, livelihood, and martial arts. A ceaseless torrent that drowned her childlike joy.

Then, a darker chapter. The same girl, stripped of her innocence, was indoctrinated by twisted, based tortures into the familial and clan pride. Her understanding of the world, her very identity, had been shattered, recast, and molded to serve the agendas of her elders. In essence, a willing casualty of the Hyuga's experiment to transform a gentle and kind girl into their ideal heiress. The clan was lucky they hadn't created an unfeeling sociopath with a hubris to rival a god.

"Don't feel too bad. I could have defied them," Hinata murmured, her gaze flickering away from Kei's understanding eyes. "But to what end? I would surely wither away before the clan ever did. Would it have been better to let them brand and curse my little sister instead?" Her voice was barely a whisper, heavy with unspoken burdens.

Hinata met Kei's gaze once more, a radiant smile blooming behind her open fan as those open windows into her eyes slammed closed, and with a click, the hallways returned. "It is my curse to bear, and mine alone. But given all I've endured," her voice gained strength, "might I be allowed to make some decisions for myself?"

Before she could finish, she found herself enveloped in a tender, unexpected embrace - engulfed by a broad chest and strong arms. Kei held her fiercely, conveying through his actions a certain amount of affection and understanding that words could not express. "Yes," he whispered. Able to scent her hair as his head placed lightly against her own, having to lower himself to hug the girl as he gently squeezed her. "This is my gift to you, so you never let them see this side of you. Furthermore, you can even live for yourself. To deny yourself desire is to deny your autonomy, don't lose your perspective. You're off to a great start." His whispers were filled with a gentle reassurance and confirmation that to be selfish was to remain human, and that was just fine.

As he gently swayed with her in his arms, he added, "You have every right to be angry and if you feel violated, be angry at me later. Today is a day for celebration. You've made your decision and shouldered a great burden...they can never call you selfish. Keep your resolve." He sighed, a weight seeming to lift from his own shoulders from this experience. "You're smart enough to know that yours is both a gift and a curse."

When Kei finally released her, Hinata was momentarily speechless. The carefully crafted mask she wore had slipped, revealing a glimpse of the innocent, kind-hearted girl hidden beneath. She nodded, her eyes brimming with gratitude and newfound ease.

"I have a hard time, still…deciphering my actions from their own. Bastards are crafty that way." She confessed, her voice tinged with a bittersweetness, "Even after I broke their influence on me…they still got what they wanted. Just much more that they didn't bargain for." A dark chuckle escaped her lips. "But I never inherited their greed or aversion to self-sacrifice." Her smile returned, brighter than before. "It's a daughter's duty to uphold the ideals of her family and clan, to keep them in high esteem, and to respect their wishes." Another giggle, this one filled with a mischievous glint. "But no one ever said I had to do things their way."

Kei chuckled, charmed by Hinata's candidness. "A fair and honest analysis," He remarked, glad that she was so adaptable. Then, his expression shifted, a shadow of introspection passing over his features. "And it seems we have more in common than I initially realized," he mused.

He began to bow in a gesture of respect, as to say 'well played', but Hinata raised a hand, forestalling the formality. A silent understanding passed between them more than once since their conversation began, and she acknowledged that their connection transcended the usual social conventions because of it.

Kei's smile deepened, a genuine warmth that reached his eyes. "I like you, Hinata." He paused, his gaze lingering on her for a moment before continuing. "I already understood why Naruko caught your eye, but now I see why she's been allowing your advances. You're confident, you know who you are... who you want to be. And you know what you want, in a way that Naruko doesn't quite yet."

A thoughtful frown creased his brow as he added, "You don't pretend you can do everything yourself, or that you know it all." His gaze met hers, filled with a quiet understanding. "You truly wouldn't hurt her." It wasn't a question, but a statement of fact.

Hinata giggled, her fan fluttering before her eyes as she batted her lashes playfully. "Senpai," she vowed coyly, making her tone solemn as she lowered her head in a mock bow, "I would gladly turn myself over to your vengeance if I ever harmed a single hair on her head."

"That's good, Hinata..." Kei's voice suddenly echoed in her mind, chillingly intimate. In an instant, she found herself within the opulent expanse of her own mindscape, a sprawling palace of white and gold. Kei stood before her, barefoot on the black marble floors, a commanding presence within her mental sanctuary.

"Because death is easy," he continued, his voice resonating through her mind like a haunting melody. "And my vengeance... is one far worse than death." He ascended a short flight of red and gold carpeted steps, taking a seat upon her velvet throne, adorned with the Hyuga clan crest.

Hinata's breath hitched as Kei surveyed the vast throne room, its walls lined with banners detailing her life's accomplishments. "You wouldn't want to live a life where I've your safe haven as my own," he purred. "Your pretty little ass would literally belong to me…or whatever I wanted. And I'd hate to dethrone you, it's clear you spend a lot of time here. I'm impressed, it's quite finely detailed."

Hinata gasped, jolted back to reality. Her carefully constructed mindscape, her refuge, had been breached. Bypassed in a breath. She felt exposed, vulnerable, as if stripped to her very core. She stared up into Kei's clouded gray eyes, his hand gently caressing her cheek as a chilling smile played on his lips.

"Ah, you're alright..." He consoled as he withdrew his hand. Hinata noticed a dampness, her own cheek wet with a tear she hadn't shed.

Silently, Hinata raised a trembling hand to her face, wiping away the moisture. "I understand," she said slowly, a quiver passing through her words as she regained her composure. She took a deep, calming breath, her heart still pounding in her chest. Kei's intrusion had shaken her for the moment. Her mindscape, meticulously crafted and fortified by an unwavering resolve, had been invaded with an ease she hadn't thought possible. It was a stark reminder that there were levels to this game.

"Compose yourself, Hinata-san. We're friends after all, but you'll acknowledge the need to draw a firm, bright line." Kei smiled nonchalantly, leaning back against the wall to give her a moment. "You're stronger than this," he challenged gently, "show me, help yourself."

A frown slowly crept across Hinata's face as his words resonated with a painful truth. He was obligated to warn her, she knew. She would have done the same for Hanabi if their roles were reversed. And in his warning, there had been no cruelty, no malice. He had simply acted out of a need for a friend, and that truth was not devoid of respect or friendship.

Hinata recognized the futility of bitterness. They were both ninja, bound by a code that often diverged from the societal norms of the everyday. With this in mind and hearing his detached tone, she composed herself, adjusting the pale pink obi of her kimono with a resolute tug.

"Lovely, Hyuga-sama. Truly," Kei remarked with a coy smirk, lightly placing a hand on her shoulder as she regained her usual regal demeanor. "I'm sure Naruko will appreciate your efforts on her behalf. And that kimono is rather dashing, you wear it well." He offered a wink of self-amusement, his compliment subtly focusing on how she made the attire captivating rather than the garment itself.

He meant it too, it was difficult not to notice. The kimono, already eye-catching, was elevated by the way it draped over her blossoming curves. Like Naruko, Hinata had a healthy growth spurt, and while her form was still developing, it was clear what it would lead to. A petite, voluptuous form. In contrast, Naruko promised to be tall, lithe, and athletic. He imagined, if it were to be, they'd make for an impressive and influencing presence.

Hinata blushed to hear his honest words, her cheeks dusted with a delicate pink. She raised her fan coyly, tilting her head in a playful gesture. "So sweet. Thank you, senpai. But this is just an old kimono one of the servants dug up. If you're impressed by this, just wait until my new wardrobe is finished." Her eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. "Not to sound crass, but I don't intend to let Naruko focus too much on my fashion sense."

Kei laughed heartily at her blunt honesty. "No doubt!" Noticing that the hallway had grown quiet as the party inside seemed to wind down, he checked his watch and nodded at Hinata. "Perfect timing, then. Are you ready?"

Hinata's smile widened behind her fan, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "I'm quite eager to be honest," she replied simply.

"I knew it." Kei jerked his head towards the door for her to follow as he turned, his hand on the knob. "Just follow me. My brother will divert attention when he sees us. You know how flighty Naruko can be, so Kayo will have to be on his game to keep her distracted."

With that, he opened the door, ushering Hinata into the apartment. The lull of slow music and laughter washed over them as they stepped inside, a vibrant contrast to the quiet intensity of their conversation in the hallway.

Kayo glanced towards the door as it opened, revealing his brother and Hinata. A silent, knowing look passed between Kei and Kayo as both siblings silently communicated. Kayo smoothly proceeded as if nothing was amiss, making sure that Naruko's attention was on him.

"Okay, beloved. It's winning time! This is the last round and it's your night, so you roll the last go." he said, his arm casually encircling the blonde's waist and pulling her close to him. "Let's see what you've got." He grinned, pressing the dice into her surprised hands as he watched Hinata and Kei disappear towards the back of the apartment.

Naruko blinked blankly, before snapping out of her pause. "Wha—no way! All that money?" She protested, her voice rising in alarm. "I refuse to be responsible for it!" She pushed him away from her and turned her head away to ignore him. Memories from her scavenging days returned, replaying past misfortunes she'd witnessed, and the desperate scrambling and scrapping of gambling addicted villagers while out on the streets of Konoha. Dice seemed to have a way of attracting trouble and getting people hurt.

"Don't be stubborn, Naruko. Just roll them, It's on me," Kayo chuckled, tightening his grip as he pulled her back and she tried to pull away. "Look, it's all in the wrist, see? Simple." He demonstrated a practice roll, the dice clattering across the table.

"Roll 'em if you got 'em, kid," Anko chimed in, muttering, her voice edged with impatience. She'd already lost three games in a row and was eager to move on.

"No! That's way too much money… Now stop it!" Naruko demanded, her tone firm. Kayo sighed, he knew better than to push her when she got like this. She could be a force of nature when provoked, a lesson he had learned firsthand during their countless training sessions.

"Yo, do you two need a moment alone or what?" Genma teased coolly, a senbon dangling from his lips. The older ninja standing around erupted in laughter, their amusement fueling Naruko's frustrated annoyance.

"...Funny. How long did it take you to come up with that one?" she retorted, pouting and crossing her arms.

"Aright now, just calm down." Kayo told Naruko, ignoring the teasing, and held out his hand. "Give them back. You're making me look bad, girl," he grumbled. Naruko stuck out her tongue and reached out to return the dice.

"Get it girl!" Kayo yelled, and swatted her on the ass.

Naruko's reaction was immediate and swift. She yelped out of pained shock, sending the dice tumbling across the wooden playing board. Kayo laughed and ducked, throwing his arms over his head as the blonde began cursing him while slapping and punching him on the back

"You perverted…little bastard. I keep telling you to stop taking advantage of me!" During Kayo's attempt to escape Naruko's feminine fury, the dice rebounded off the partition, flipping and spinning in bounds before finally coming to a rest.

"Ohhh!" The room erupted in surprised cheers as the pair of dice landed in a winning combination.

"That's what the fuck I'm talking about! Got damn!" Kayo hooted in victory, with Naruko attached to his back and planning to keep pounding him until she realized what happened with wide eyes in response.

Anko cursed under her breath, and Kurenai shook her head, a wry smile on her lips.

"That's my girl! Did you see that!" Kayo exclaimed, sweeping Naruko into a hug. "Have I told you how much I love you?" he said, planting a kiss on her cheek, then her forehead enthusiastically. Naruko blinked, momentarily stunned by the sudden energetic affection, before a bewildered smile spread across her face.

"Unbelievable!" He yelled, leaning down to scoop up the winning spread and counting the cash with a wide, silly grin. He peeled off a few bills for himself, and divided the rest. "Eighty percent after the house's cut. And for the lovely lady luck," he teased, stuffing the wad of cash into Naruko's pocket despite her protests - leaving money bulging in her thigh-cut orange shorts.

"No back talk," Kayo whispered in her ear, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Take that fine ass girl of yours out or something. Stack it, hell…you can burn it. Just don't let me see that shit if you do." Naruko's eyes widened. She hadn't realized he knew about her crush on Hinata. She mumbled incoherent excuses, realizing she'd been caught somehow, but it was generally ignored.

"Now, that's a fluke if I ever saw one," Kurenai muttered, partly distracted, just barely sighting Kei and Hinata slipping into a bedroom and shutting the door locked behind them while everyone was distracted.

"Shit, I'm bingo," Anko sighed, officially tapped out of cash.

"You were saying?" Genma quipped, overhearing Anko's declaration and getting a flat stare in return. He shook his head, a cool smile on his face as he turned to speak to his former-potential student.

"Great party, kid. Big of you to invite me, glad there's no hard feelings." He clapped Kayo on the back. "...And hey, Don't forget what we talked about. You could really clean up in the underground games, you know where to find me."

"You got it, big bro. See you around," Kayo called out, a hint of amusement in his voice as he turned to check on Naruko, who was standing nearby smiling like a loon while counting the money he'd given her.

Before slipping out the door, Genma leaned close to Anko, a sly grin spreading across his face. "You know," he murmured huskily into her ear, his arm snaking around her waist, "I've heard things, but rumors ain't really my deal." His breath tickled her skin. "The night's still young, and the kid gave me a couple of bottles. Maybe you can clarify what's what?"

He didn't see the spark of interest in Anko's eyes as she turned in his embrace, her lips curving into a seductive smile. She leaned into him, pressing her soft, voluptuous body against his, a tantalizing warmth radiating from her alcohol-tinged breath. "Now that sounds like a great consolation prize," she purred, her voice a low, sultry whisper. "What's your thoughts on NDA's?" she added, flicking her tongue against his neck in a gesture that left no doubt about her intentions.

"No Discussions Afterward? Are you underestimating me, woman?" Genma smirked, his hazel eyes locking onto Anko's lust-filled gaze.

Anko flinched as a suggestive hum escaped her lips, followed by a blunt clap slap as Genma firmly slapped her perky backside. Cooing at his boldness and the sting on her skin, Anko pulled away. "Fifteen minutes, you." She whispered, a promise hanging in the air.

Kurenai shook her head discreetly at their blatant display. "And please, could you two wait until you get to a room?" Anko simply stuck her tongue out at Kurenai, mouthing the word "jealous." Kurenai, ignoring her friend, watched as Kei returned from the bedroom without Hinata. Okay... he's definitely up to something, she thought.

Kayo caught his brother's eye, receiving a subtle nod. Kei made a circular motion with his finger, signaling for Kayo to wrap things up quickly. Kayo's eyes widened in understanding.

"Alright, party's over, folks!" he announced, his voice booming over the dwindling crowd. "You don't have to go home, but you gotta get the hell out of here!" He glanced towards the kitchen. "Yo, wrap up that Shogi game, Shikamaru! Stop playing with him, you had him beat 5 moves ago!"

"Troublesome timing," Shikamaru mumbled, mildly irritated by Kayo's loudness. He sat across the kitchen table from Asuma, his future sensei, poised to end their marathon Shogi game. Asuma was a worthy opponent, but not quite on the level of Shikamaru's father. Another victory was within reach.

"Shit," Asuma cursed under his breath as Shikamaru made his final move, securing the win.

"Good game, sensei," Shikamaru said as he stood, a hint of satisfaction in his voice. "See you tomorrow. It was nice meeting you." He turned to Choji, who was lounging nearby. "Let's head home. I'm already going to lose an hour of sleep to mom yelling at me for being late." He sighed.

"You'll be a hell of a tactician if you can translate your skills from the board to the real world," Asuma remarked as they bowed to each other.

"It's the same either way," Shikamaru replied with a shrug. "A good commander goes into any fight expecting to lose more than a few good men. Sometimes even more than that."

Asuma nodded, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes. Would he really apply that logic if those men were his close friends? he wondered.

Choji, overhearing the unspoken question, chuckled as he passed by. "I know that look, sensei. He's said the same thing to me, and to his dad. The answer is yes. Shika would sacrifice an entire team, a platoon, anything, if it was a tactically sound decision." He shot an amused look at Asuma before following Shikamaru out the door. "See you, sensei!"

Asuma watched them leave, a mixture of surprise and admiration on his face. "I wonder..." he murmured, picking up his Jonin vest from the back of the chair and heading out, the question of Shikamaru's true nature lingering in his mind.

"Kurenai-chan, you're worrying for nothing. Both girls are mature enough to know what they want and where their boundaries lie," Kei explained calmly, countering her disapproval of his admitted actions.

"You say they're just kids, and you're right. They're young. But I didn't create the government that effectively grants them adult rights as ninja. A bad influence? You wound me." Kei's voice was lighthearted, but his words held a firm conviction.

Kurenai persisted in her argument, a little flustered while debating the responsibility of allowing Hinata and Naruko such freedom.

Kei shook his head. "No, not really," he countered. "Those two are going to do what they want, whether we're here or not. You didn't raise the same concerns about Hana and Kayo, and they're only a few years older. The difference is negligible."

Kurenai found herself at a loss for words, momentarily silenced by Kei's logic. She huffed in frustration, rising to her feet. "If anything untoward happens to either of them, I'm blaming you," she threatened, her eyes narrowing. After a moment her cheeks flushed unexpectedly in perceived embarrassment. "You better hope they're rested enough for tomorrow... Now," she cleared her throat, "you mentioned this was your brother's place and you were about to leave? Would you mind seeing me home?"

Kei chuckled at Kurenai's sudden change in demeanor. "Well, I didn't see that coming. Or is it a pretext for you to chew me out for being irresponsible?" He remarked as he rose to his feet. As the last guests to leave, he turned off the music and lights, locking the door behind them.

'Four teens, two pairs of potential lovebirds under one roof to themselves', Kei mused with a slight yawn. 'It's late, so they should be fine, right? Can't have Kurenai of all people hitting me with, I told you so. I'd never live that down'.

Kurenai eyed him skeptically. "Hmm," she hummed, her voice flat. "You don't look so relaxed about leaving them alone now. Worried?" Her lips curved into a wry smile as she huddled closer to Kei, seeking warmth against the cool night air.

"Nah, it's fine, really!" he exclaimed, a bit too forcefully. He shrugged out of his poncho-style sweater and draped it over Kurenai's shoulders.

~Moments Ago:

"Aright, remember what I said earlier?" Kayo asked, a mischievous grin spreading across his face as he opened the bedroom door. "Someone special wanted to congratulate you personally."

A tired and slightly bewildered Naruko was ushered into the dark room. "Kayo," she sighed, annoyance creeping into her voice. "Even if I believed you... there's no one here. If this is some kind of prank—"

"No prank. I'm dead ass serious," Kayo interrupted, giving her a gentle push that sent her stumbling further into the darkness. He swiftly closed the door, channeling his chakra into it to seal it shut.

A glowing seal materialized over the door as Kayo stepped back. He could hear Naruko tugging and pushing, but the door held firm. "Just relax, you're in good hands, he called out. It'll unlock at sunrise!"

"Wasn't that a bit... abrupt?" Hana's voice questioned from the other side of the door, hearing the blonde struggling at the door. "Not smooth. I don't like messy boys." She teased.

He frowned. "I'm wavey, you're hating." Was his immediate response, then he heard Naruko pulling harder at the door. "Well…" He flinched with embarrassment, hand going to the back of his head in wincing action. "...Maybe you got a point, but it's moot. She'll be fine in there," Kayo assured his Inuzuka girlfriend who was watching him with her arms folded impatiently and skepticism written all over her face.

"Fine." She scoffed. She wanted to cuddle damnit! And she slept so well in his presence - a soothing thing that she noticeably missed when in her own bed.

"Just don't prolong whatever this is…and hurry up." She shook her head at the clunky way his plan was playing out. "Don't make me have to come back out here to get you." She threatened her immature boyfriend with a mild glare when he gazed at her blankly.

Kayo sighed and nodded solemnly knowing she meant business from that look. "I'm not some deviant… a pervert, maybe…

"Definitely," Hana interrupted, rolling her eyes.

"...Anyway, I'll be in the room once she settles down, girl. Damn." He cursed. Noticing Hana's testy expression, he folded, smiling and silently blowing her kiss.

Hana rolled her eyes at his boyish antics. "Whatever." The brunette huffed, not at all fooled by Kayo, she knew him far too well to fall for his immature antics that most others thought was endearing. She proceeded to the bedroom.

Watching her go, Kayo placed his ear to the door, just to make sure Naruko calmed down enough to actually realize Hinata was in the room with her.

Naruko huffed, still pushing and pulling on the door. "Damnit, Kayo open the door. I can hear you out there. You said no pranks!" She cursed. "You're my servant, listen to me!"

"...And I meant it, it ain't a prank. Just…calm down, you'll see. Now, I'll see ya in the morn!" He said for the final time, leaving to his own bedroom where Hana was waiting.

Naruko's sharp hearing sense allowed her to hear Kayo's footsteps fade down the hallway into his bedroom and then the door closing. "Agh, damnit…" The blonde sighed, pouting. "Telling me to calm down… I'll kick your smug, brown ass." Naruko muttered bitterly.

A musical giggle echoed through the room behind the blonde, unrestrained. The alluring chime familiar as it echoed through the dark room, quieting the blonde immediately. "Oh, Naruko," a voice purred from the shadows, "always so demanding when frustrated. I've warned you about being so cute in my presence, you know it's my weakness."

Naruko heard the voice but didn't quite believe it. Instead, she sniffed eagerly at the magnetic, familiar scent of lavender, mixed flowers, and unidentified sweetness in the air. It was a vibrant, tantalizing blend that sent a shiver down Naruko's spine. It was Hinata's signature, but oddly intense and cloying. The smell was far richer, heady, and almost hypnotic. The air was thick with the smell and it made her heart race.

Slowly Naruko turned, greeted by a short petite figure emerging from the darkness, bathed in the soft moonlight streaming through the open glass doors of the balcony. It was Hinata, but not the same girl who once faked innocent shyness, but the girl as she truly knew her. The real Hinata exuded confidence, aloofness, and a playful sensuality, dancing forth while fanning her tessen in time with the rhythm of her hips swaying. The lights of the Konoha skyline like colorful stars in the background of glass.

Naruko noticed her kimono was undone, flared open as the obi and underdress were missing, leaving Hinata's light-toned body draped in the freely flowing silk that hinted with small peeks of her body, the deep purple fabric shimmering like starlight with every sway. Her waist long hair was parted in two as it cascaded over both shoulders in loose waves that fell over her chest, framing a round face that seemed both familiar and strikingly new. Her eyes, usually soft, now sharp with awareness, filled with want, held a mischievous glint, and a knowing smile on her lips.

"Perhaps," Hinata mused lyrically, her voice a velvety caress to Naruko's ears, "it's time for a change in perspective. After all, my dear Naruko, this isn't the Academy. Our shackles have been removed. Let's not linger in childish limitations."

A hot flush crept up Naruko's neck as she met Hinata's gaze, the full weight of the situation settling upon her as Hinata shifted to give the blonde another angle to view her, noticing her shadowed eyes swallowing her form. "Hinata... you..." she began, her voice barely a whisper.

Hinata leaned forward, closing the distance between them. "Shhh," she murmured, her finger gently pressing against Naruko's lips. "Tonight is for action. I've seen how you look at me, shining your light upon this undeserving one- With, not just want, but with appreciation, affection, and dare I say..?" Hinata whispered, trailing off and gazing further into the blonde's single blue and single purple eyes.

A silent question lingered in her eyes, milky white pools in the moonlight glimmered with nervous hope, holding Naruko captive. A playful smile tugged at the corner of her lips at a shared memory, despite her silent worry. "Remember you always wanted to know what it was like to be pursued, Naruko?" Hinata smiled, worried that Naruko hadn't wanted her at all, wanted her like this. That she'd misread the blonde. "And instead, after a time we somehow pursued each other?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with unspoken intentions and hidden meaning. Hinata's hand lowered from Naruko's lips to her chin, caressing her face. "Need I remind you?" She sighed when Naruko remained silent, her eyes doubtful as her voice echoed solemnly in the hushed stillness of the room.

Naruko's gaze flickered to life, her blue and purple eyes glimmered locking onto Hinata's pale lavender ones with awakened awareness. She shook her head, "You… weren't wrong," the blonde murmured, her voice husky. "I've always... admired you, Hinata-chan."

Her hand drifted to Hinata's cheek then the back of her neck, pulling her closer, surprising Hinata. "But you... you honestly make me nervous. I don't know what I'm doing. you expect me to lead, and you're always so sure." Naruko admitted, a hint of vulnerability lacing her voice. "You're just so beautiful, so strong, so... everything I'm not. I don't want to disappoint you. I'd rather stay friends than risk it and lose you."

A playful but understanding smile tugged at Hinata's lips. "My-Oh my Naruko," she breathed, a sultry tone as her fingers tangled in the blonde's hair affectionately as she was pulled closer by the blonde. "You underestimate yourself far too much."

"I know, and…" Naruko smiled solemnly, trailing off to think as her eyes gazed over every detail of Hinata's face before meeting her eyes again, nearly struck silent by Hinata's dark and exotic beauty. She continued without hesitation, the strength in Hinata's solid lavender eyes pushing her to continue.

"...And, any other time I'd be confident, but…you're just so… alluring and beautiful and special. And I'm…" The blonde leaned in closer, whispering into silence when Hinata tried to shake her head and deny her words, her lips teasing at Hinata's ear hesitantly as she scented the girl before her tentatively - her smell loosing something within her.

Hinata "eep'd" quietly, immediately drowning in the strong jolts of pleasure that suddenly shot through her and ignited a fire in her belly down to her core. Shuddering with needy sensitivity and nearly losing her balance at Naruko's inexperienced nipping. The Hyuga heiress felt like her thighs had been dipped in warm water as a second pleasurable wave made her head tilt up with a quiet, throaty purr that filled the vacant room.

The heiress's eyes were blank, narrowed, and lost in the whiteness that filled her vision, uncomprehending as she panted with wanton breaths overcome with tingling, lightheaded pleasure blanketing her. Naruko licked her lips, a sly smile going unnoticed as she supported a weak kneed Hinata.

The blonde's hold suddenly became possessive to see Hinata's expression as she traced a chakra coated tongue around Hinata's earlobe again, proceeding down to her throat with light, butterfly kisses, leaving Hinata to swoon endlessly. "Na-Naru-ko…Naru-ko." Hinata mumbled between soft, begging moans.

"You are everything I desire," Naruko whispered confidently, her voice demanding and husky, her tone telling Hinata she was just getting started. Hinata's gaze was clouded over hazily as the girl was left in a tingling daze, her bosom swelled with an intense heat from the intimacy she experienced, a first for the clan heiress. Was it supposed to be this overwhelming?

"As you…are- for me… Ruko-sama." Hinata muttered submissively, her eyes fluttering as she smiled a misaligned smile, managing to kiss the blonde's lips lightly despite her daze. She felt as if she were floating above the floor as she locked eyes with the blonde dreamily.

"Just making sure." Naruko grinned brightly, slightly cocky as her confidence had returned. Her arms encircled the Hyuga princess's waist pulling the dark haired, swooning kunoichi closer. Hinata's wanton horny breaths pushed her. Hinata's breath hitched as the blonde's possessive actions added fuel to the fire raging within her core, backed up by eager and needy breathless moans that were driving Naruko crazy. "Stop making those sounds, I'm gonna lose it."

Managing to keep control of herself and wanting to savor this moment, this… Hinata, mismatched eyes met Hinata's wide, innocent, entranced eyes as she traced the soft contours of the Hyuga's cheek, her gaze sharpening as they set on the girl's pinkened lips, slightly parted. Naruko tilted her head to watch with sexual frustration in her eyes, her thumb gently tracing the curve of her hot lips. "Open…your mouth." Naruko ordered her tone soft but demanding.

Hinata gasped at her words and their intent, immediately responded with a whimper, her lips parting slightly more as her warm breaths tickled Naruko's lips. Hinata began kissing the blonde's thumb as it enticed her soft lips, her tongue nipping at the digit playfully.

Naruko gazed, entranced, at the girl's mouth as it teased her thumb. "Show me…" Another quiet command and she sighed at the pleasant warmth of Hinata's breath and damp tongue. "I am tired Hinata-chan…" She confessed, that sexual frustration was obvious in her tone as she inserted two fingers into the entranced Hyuga's mouth, her voice a seductive whisper as Hinata enthusiastically tongued her fingers with a needy whimper. "Tonight, I'm going to take something for myself."

Hinata shook as Naruko showed her boldness, pulling Hinata closer so their bodies molded together, a wave of passion washing over them. Hinata's response was a soft, breathless sigh of, "Naruko," that sent a thrill through the jinchuriki's core as she removed her fingers from the girl's mouth. Their lips met in a passionate dance, Naruko's hands eagerly exploring the curves beneath Hinata's open kimono, seeking the warmth and feel of her bare skin possessively.

Naruko's hand ran up the inside of Hinata's thigh, her saliva dampened fingers collecting the honeyed fluids of the girl's arousal from her warm flesh. Her free hand tangled into Hinata's dark waves of hair, petting her head as she formed a grip and pulled the silky strands, her fingers dancing playfully over the swollen, wetness of Hinata's entrance as she pulled her head back.

Hinata whimpered again, hearing Naruko inhaling her scent from her neck as she quivered from the blonde's teasing. "Mmh," Hinata moaned, nearly turning into puddy when Naruko released a soft, predatory growl. She wet herself further, a sprinkle of intimate juices leaking generously onto Naruko's fingers as she rubbed her hand over her petals. She felt as if she were literally on fire as Naruko continued playing with her, teasing her as if a spoiled child playing with their food.

"Hinata…" Naruko whispered her name, her fingers petting the girl's swollen, sensitive nub. Hinata couldn't help the long throaty moan that escaped her lips as the jinchuriki applied some pressure and pushed the kimono back from her shoulders, leaving her entirely naked.

"Mmm, Narukooo." Hinata's voice was a lilting purr filled with hunger for more as she managed to stop Naruko's hand despite herself. She backed away with a sensual display, falling back onto the bed behind her while pulling her hand through her waist length hair and over her shoulder.

Naruko watched Hinata lay back with hungry eyes in all her nudity as she pulled off her black and orange jacket, revealing a black mesh sports bra that soon joined the jacket on the floor. Hinata licked her lips as she raised her leg, her foot toeing playfully at the inside of Naruko's thigh. "Naruko…" she cooed with wanton impatience feeling the results of the blonde's own arousal and peak desire as she lowered her hand across her flat belly, then lower. "Come, now."

Naruko was out of her sandals then wiggling her hips, shimmying out of her tight, body hugging black and orange shorts hearing the lust and base want in the heiresses voice as the girl began to massage herself while making eye contact.

Hinata stared in awe at Naruko's figure and cute face as the girl was finally unclothed, noticing the lack of underwear. "Please." The young Hyuga begged, as she held her hand up to Naruko.

Naruko shook her head as her eyes perused Hinata's form again as she took the girl's hand into her own, threading her fingers with Hinata's as she got in bed with her.

"Ah! Naruko, my love!" Hinata squealed as the blonde attacked her neck before kissing and nibbling her soft, unblemished flesh of her chest, her free hand going to the back of Naruko's head to hold her close and encourage her to continue as she pulled the bands from the blonde's pig-tails to free her long, golden mane.

~Meanwhile

Hana and Kayo lay quietly in bed cuddled up together. Hana had herself pressed into Kayo's side wearing one of his jersey shirts, her bare leg wrapped around his as they shared each other's warmth, their eyes closed, drifting on the edge of sleep. Kayo's breathing was calm and relaxed, his hand lazily trailing along Hana's side beneath the shirt in a slow, affectionate rhythm that calmed the brunette in his arms.

His silence was a stark contrast to their usual routine, filled with whispered conversations and playful banter. This time he claimed he wasn't responding well to the alcohol consumed earlier but Hana could feel his subtle tension, a low hum beneath the surface of his seemingly relaxed exterior. Hana's instincts were screaming at her, that something was off, and it was keeping her awake. The ensuing denial didn't help either - that they weren't mates by the traditional meaning and that she shouldn't be feeling this…something she hadn't felt with previous interests… right now. Still, that concern was brushed aside in favor of the male's next to her.

She couldn't stand it any longer. "Kay-kun..." She murmured, her voice barely a whisper in the darkness. "What's wrong?"

Opening his eyes lazily at Hana's voice and the concern threaded within, Kayo hesitated, a moment of silence stretching between them before he sighed, a soft sound that barely disturbed the quiet of the room. "It's nothing, for real," he replied, his voice a touch too casual. "Just... thinking." He answered vaguely.

He couldn't just come out and tell this beautiful girl who was steadily breaking away the hardened brick wall around his heart. His involvement with the Midorinami, following after his brother, put an unexpected on him from his involvement with Hana. He was having regrets about something she didn't and wasn't supposed to know about. 'Why does big bro always have to be right? He warned me, and to the letter he was on point.' He sighed, mentally exhausted.

Hana lifted her head from Kayo's chest, smiling curiously to find him staring at her with open affection in his cloudy gray eyes.

"Ah, for logs sake… please, don't look at me like that!' His inner dialogue tinged with guilt and regret. His eyes deepened to include a dark blue haze mixed in with gray as their gazes met. Hana recognized this shift in color. She didn't know much about his defect or the every meaning of the hues his eyes could take on because of it.

However, she knew what blue meant. And that exact shade usually meant he was feeling a lack of clarity.

He returned her smile, the blue fading as he ran a hand through her wavy brown hair. "I'm keeping you up, ain't I?" He leaned in to kiss her lips softly, fingers tangling in her locks.

The brunette held back a scoff, ignoring his attempt to deflect, and persisted patiently. "Thinking about what?" She tilted her head into his hand, returning his kiss despite the growing annoyance she was feeling. This wasn't going to work on her.

The simple enjoyment he got from Hana's soft, pink lips was short-lived as Hana persisted, as he knew she would. She wasn't like his previous bimbos, she was his first kunoichi interest for a reason. The differences between her and them were a stark difference he wasn't always prepared for. And Hana usually got her way because of it.

A shadow flickered across Kayo's face, a hint of unease betraying his words. "Nothing important," he murmured, his voice a shade too nonchalant. "Just nervous about tomorrow. You know how it is." He kissed her forehead, a tender gesture masking his true concerns. "Don't worry, baby" he whispered. "Go back to sleep."

Hana wasn't having it. She knew he wasn't being honest, and her Inuzuka instincts tingled with a silent alarm. She nestled closer, a knot of worry building in her chest. "It's not nothing, Kay. I can feel it. I don't want to go to sleep worried, if you keep it up I'm gonna wake up mad. I only want your honesty, you've had an issue with that before, so you're only making it worse." She murmured, warning him of the consequences before it came to that. She traced a fingertip along his bare chest affectionately, willing to chip away at his reluctance even if neither one of them got any rest.

To her advantage, Kayo lacked patience and she outclassed him in stubbornness. Their unique brand of open honesty and awareness served as the foundation of their relationship supported by a great friendship that didn't change, but evolved to what they were now. Therefore, Kayo wasn't incentivized to deny her while she was inclined to not let him get away with his reckless and destructive habits.

A thoughtful silence settled between them before Kayo finally spoke, his voice a hushed rumble in the darkness. He couldn't lie to her, but he could give her half the truth. "Thinking about...a few things," he admitted. He couldn't tell her what exactly was on his mind, but he could explain other thoughts he'd been having in relation to his main concerns.

"...How fortunate I've been lately. For once I can feel growth in my life and all things being fair, gotta admit that started with you." His voice took on a gentle tone. "I know I don't really have anything to complain about, I know I'm blessed. I could be overthinking it, but the receptance you and your clan have shown me… It's not to be taken for granted, but the irrational part of me is saying I'll screw it up. There's a lot of love and loyalty there with your clan that's been enlightening. And I sometimes wondered...but now I know what it feels like to receive genuineness, rather than just being it. Doing what we do, I just want to keep experiencing these new feelings for a very long time. Having been desensitized from these things and no longer being so has changed my perspective. I don't want to fuck this up."

His words hung in the air, raw, honest, and vulnerable. The last of which was not like Kayo in any way. Hana was speechless, stunned by his admission. The usual playful retort died on her lips, replaced by an unfamiliar warmth that spread through her chest. She had never wanted him more than in this moment, feeling a drive and a need to be physically closer to him than was possible recognizing the man before her, the depth of his affection shining in his eyes whether he meant to show it or not. It was a side of Kayo she had never seen before, didn't expect to see, and it ignited a passion within her.

"Kay-kun." She whispered, sitting up to look into his eyes, a heartbreaking expression of love filling her eyes that made the young man's heart skip a couple beats as his eyes widened and eyebrows raised at the unexpected response.

"Have I ever told you just how damn sexy you are?" His cocky grin returned as he kissed her lips again, the words "I love you" lingering unspoken on the tip of his tongue.

Hana hummed in response as she took his hands and put them on her firm, round ass, her smile widening as she melted into the kiss. "Mhm, you have," she murmured, straddling him, her eyes sparkling with intent as she pulled the shirt off and tossed it to the floor. "Now, tell me something I don't know."

"Hana..?" He started, surprised by her actions. The spooning, skinship, making out, getting handsy, sleeping together, and seeing this beautiful, vibrant, young woman in her underwear were far from what her actions were now suggesting- leaving him stunned as his eyes showed. Was this what was called a role reversal? She was supposed to be the level headed one, and he was supposed to not pressure her. But now he was the one feeling the pressure.

"I'm sure, now stop being understanding. I want you to fill me up." Hana demanded as she caught his lips in a kiss so passionate, his desire immediately overflowed as she moaned into his mouth.

"No foreplay!" Chakra coating his hand Kayo slapped her ass, the sound bouncing off the walls of the room joined by Hana's long, guttural moan as he rolled her over.

W×V×Ø

Clandestine Location

The roar of the oversized waves crashing against the mountainous cliffs of Uzushio was deafening, as were both concentric rings of miles wide, intensely angry whirlpools surrounding the outer vicinity of the island and its depths in the ocean. Otherworldly, an impenetrable village defense - both a symbol and a namesake, the frightening effect of the seals powering the whirlpools Uzushio was famous for were nowhere to be found. The frenetic whirling tides were reduced to little more than choppy waves, mostly crippled… powerless to stop the sudden and growing onslaught that blitzed Uzushio's beaches as a result.

The sky was dark with massive storm clouds as smoke and fire contributed to the dire atmosphere, the air thick and acrid with the scent of burning wood, spent chakra, blood, and the echoed cries of battle. Whirlpool's clans of illusionists, seal masters, and warriors, many bearing the distinctive red hair of the mystical island's royal family, the Uzumaki clan. Angry determination was etched on their faces as they formed a mighty sight, united with families of Uzushiogakure's minor and branch clans, fighting valiantly against the combined forces of at least two identified foreign invaders.

Amidst the growing chaos of the frontline battlegrounds on the beach, the Uzumaki seal masters chanted ancient incantations, their hands weaving intricate patterns in the air. Seals erupted around them, creating barriers and traps that slowed but could not stop the tide of enemies. Explosive tags detonated, sending shockwaves through the ranks of the attackers, but it was clear the defenses were failing.

Kenshin Uzumaki, Captain of the Seal Engineering Corps, barked orders to his comrades after earlier cutting their losses attempting to repair Uzushio's whirlpool seals. Repairing them wasn't the issue, timing was, large swaths of the main seal were damaged- erased so severely the repair would need to be done from scratch. The focus was now on defending the beach side, the weak side of the inner sanctum given its unhidden, outside access point.

"Hold the line! Do not let them breach the inner sanctum!" His voice was hoarse, eyes blazing with determination as he unleashed a series of powerful sealing jutsu, temporarily pushing back the enemy forces. "Do not falter, do not doubt…we stand together or not at all!"

But it was a losing battle. The whirlpools, the greatest natural defense of Uzushiogakure, of anywhere, had been neutralized. Unknown to the defenders, the seals controlling the whirlpools had been sabotaged from within, rendering them useless as a pretext to these events. Infiltrators confirmed to be from Konoha, Mist- and others unconfirmed but thought to be from one of Kumo, Waterfall, or Rain disguised as refugees from lands now war torn due to the current shinobi war, and brought in by the Uzushio Armada's humane outreach campaign seeking shelter, had methodically dismantled the seals over weeks, ensuring the village's downfall.

A piercing scream suddenly cut through the air as an Uzumaki warrior fell, and the barriers layered around the beach, out to the inner sanctum, began to waver.

Amidst the chaos, Aya's vassal and protector, Izanagi Kuria stood unwaveringly by the young girl's side, using his eyes to construct illusions that either set the invaders up to fall by Aya's seal weaving hand, or to defend from and misdirect others away from his charge as she healed their injured and fallen with a few drops of her blood.

Izanagi, a member of the Kuria clan's Adamantine Corps service branch which produced vassal warriors to guard, assist, and advise Uzumaki clan royals, was known for having the complete confidence of, and once serving Kenshin Uzumaki before asking Izanagi to protect and guide Aya in his stead. He was acknowledged for his fierce loyalty and absolute dedication. The power of his Illusion Eye, a dojutsu unique to the Kuria clan, was considered prolific among a long history of Kuria clansmen that had long served as perfect vassals to the Uzumaki, especially as their abilities naturally complemented the Uzumaki's own formidable sealing arts.

Making sure not to get bogged down in one place for too long as their responsibility was one of support, Aya and Izanagi moved through the battlefield with precision and grace. Aya's healing touch brought injured comrades back from the brink, while her sealing techniques repelled enemy attacks swiftly and with little effort. Izanagi, with his Illusion Eye activated, provided an impenetrable shield, manipulating the perceptions of enemies to create confusion and disarray.

Kenshin, realizing the gravity of their situation was now irreversible, signaled to the young Uzumaki girl as he approached from the decimated frontlines ahead of the enemy. He took a short moment to feel pride in his sister as Aya fought valiantly, painting the portrait of a fierce Uzumaki at her young age. She instinctively acted with Izanagi who covered her blind spots, making her a much more fearsome and effective kunoichi. She made much better use of his presence than he ever had as her unique healing abilities and seal techniques had very nearly turned the tide to Uzushio's favor.

Unfortunately it was too late and wouldn't come to pass.

"Aya, it's time. Our efforts have stalled, and so you must activate the failsafe seals. Shut it all down. The focus now is protecting the land, our ancestral scrolls and relics. We cannot let them or our home fall into enemy hands!" Kenshin growled, hating himself for having to give this order and put the weight of Uzushio's survival on his young sister. His only redemption was that he had more than prepared Aya for this turnabout and that she wouldn't go through it alone.

A young Aya nodded without hesitation, her face pale but resolute. Kenshin knew his little sister was beyond her years in every way. She'd been born with unreal expectations placed upon her, so he was unsurprised when he could almost see the young girl switching her train of thought to the new directive.

"Nagi-nii, be ready to move! We'll clear a path for ourselves to secure the village's defenses from within the inner sanctum." Aya whose voice could be described as nothing other than cute, commanded, her tone resolute amidst the din of battle.

"Understood, Lady Aya," Izanagi replied, his voice calm and steady as he threw a pair of kunai past Aya's head dropping two more infiltrators wearing Konoha insignia's. The young girl cocked her head curiously, not at his defense of her but that he had begun collecting the headbands from the corpses of the fallen.

"When we are able, these may provide us with some clarity as to who is really who.." Izanagi explained after seeing her expression. Aya nodded and wordlessly sealed the items away with a wave of a glowing hand.

Izanagi turned to cast a glance around, his eyes flickering with the eerie light of the Illusion Eye, disorienting several more approaching enemies to clear a path.

As the battle raged on, Aya and Izanagi made their way to the central command post. The village was now under siege from all sides. Kenshin was ever the steady hand, holding back the tide, while Aya and Izanagi worked to safeguard the literal heart of the village.

"Nagi-chan, the seals on the eastern gate are weakening. We must reinforce them," Aya instructed, her mind racing with the intricate patterns of the defensive seals. This, even as they had yet to make it to the inner sanctum.

Izanagi nodded, huffing with exertion as he moved with swift and immediate efficiency. As Aya concentrated on the complex hand signs, Izanagi's Illusion Eye flared as he provided support, creating mirages that confused and distracted the attackers while at the same time blanketing Aya's position out of sight. The two worked in perfect harmony, their efforts a testament to the bond between the Uzumaki and the Kuria.

Finally they were free to dash towards the shrine at the heart of the village with Kenshin barely scraping in behind them before the seal enforced walls sealed the entrance off with a crash. This was where precious artifacts, historical records, and scrolls were kept. It was also where the dual mind/engine of the village resided, making Uzushio far less understood as an island and a village than outsiders may have believed.

As the group reached the entrance, a massive explosion rocked the ground, sending debris flying and throwing Aya from her feet. As Kenshin moved to help his little sister back to her feet, figures emerged through the smoke and chaos, Elite shinobi from Konoha, their faces grim with determination.

As the debris cloud cleared, Izanagi narrowed glowing eyes of green and yellow as he noticed the leader to be a stern man, their eyes cold and calculating. Obviously, a high-ranking ANBU operative. "Eliminate any who resist. The Second Hokage's orders must be carried out."

Kenshin, coming up to Izanagi's side with Aya, recognized the man, and felt a deep surge of betrayal and fury. "You... Konoha! Traitors! After everything, this is how you repay us?"

Aya gasped despite having a feeling that Konoha was responsible for this dark day.

"You're certain?" Izanagi asked Kenshin, his gaze locked on the shinobi operator.

The ANBU operative's face remained impassive, looking Kenshin off in favor of Izanagi. "It is for the greater good. The power of Uzushiogakure must not threaten the balance of the ninja world."

With a roar of defiance, Kenshin attempted to launch himself at the operative, but was held back by Izanagi as he began sealing jutsu.

"It's just too bad for you then… you'll leave here empty handed with nothing but a sleeping village to show for it. Sleeping…not destroyed. Konoha has won this battle, but certainly not the war!" Izanagi proclaimed, his eyes bringing down the walls of the corridor where the Elite shinobi and their ANBU leader were.

Everyone except the ANBU operative moved as if the walls would collapse on them as Izanagi leapt, cutting down the gaggle of Elite shinobi before spinning away from the ANBU's attempt to take his head off with his tanto.

"You can try me, traitor." As the two made to re-engage each other, a massive explosion rocked the sub-level corridors causing the passageway to collapse in on both shinobi.

"Nagi-chan, no!" Aya tried to reach for him but Kenshin pulled her back.

"We need to push forward, Aya." Kenshin told the younger Uzumaki as the battle raged on, a desperate struggle as Izanagi fought with the last of his strength, heart heavy with betrayal.

"Not without, Nagi-chan!" The girl refused as Kenshin bodily lifted his sister up and threw the small girl over his shoulder, letting her beat on him with anger and frustration.

"I know, sister…I know this is hard. I would rather it be me, even Izanagi would say the same but it's you…" Kenshin sounded grimly resolved as they disappeared further into the inner sanctum. "Don't lose focus, you are what's most important to our survival, you know that. Don't let his sacrifice be in vain."

Further in the depths of Uzushio, hidden from the prying eyes of the enemy as well as their knowledge. Aya and Kenshin entered the sacred stasis chamber at the center of the inner sanctum.

"This is the only way," Kenshiro said, his voice heavy with regret. "Aya, you must survive. The future of our clan depends on it."

"And she will if I have anything to say about it…" Izanagi suddenly cut in, stepping into the hidden chambers with the Uzumaki, his clothing torn and one eye swollen closed as blood leaked from the facial wound. He was limping heavily and covered in soot and dust.

"Nagi-chan, you made it!" The young girl smiled with obvious relief.

"Mm, and you're surprised by this?" Izanagi said calmly, ghosting a smile- until he found Aya running over and hugging him.

"Ah. Lady Aya this is not…approved behavior." He said slowly, eyes slightly wide as his face dimmed a shade from embarrassment. She was of a noble line of Uzumaki. Izanagi willingly devoted his life to selfless service, putting others before himself came naturally and made him feel fulfilled. Furthering his purpose by serving the Uzumaki and by extension, Uzushiogakure as a whole required a type of focus and sacrifice few could imagine, let alone achieve.

"I don't care!" She shook her head, still hugging him. "You'll just have to deal with it… Besides, It doesn't much matter right now."

Izanagi sighed hopelessly. "Willful girl," he muttered, relenting and patting Aya's head, much to her satisfaction. "So glad you're enjoying this," he looked at Kenshin flatly as the elder Uzumaki was getting his last bit of enjoyment out of the moment.

"Well, she does make a good point." He shrugged. "We're at the end of the line." Kenshin smiled, eyebrows stitched together, and his eyes hard. This was not how he imagined the future of Uzushio playing out, his show of lightheartedness hiding his heart ache, his only consolation was that Izanagi would remain with Aya. But who could say when or even if Aya would be awakened to enact Uzushio's rebirth.

"Come, Nagi-chan, you must stay with me," Aya said, her voice now trembling with exhaustion and grief as the moment passed and the sounds of fighting grew louder. "Ensure that the knowledge of our clan survives. I don't- I can't do it alone."

He looked at Kenshin who only nodded slightly, his expression more grim than it had been at any point throughout the fighting. Izanagi nodded and agreed. "I will, Lady Aya. I will protect you and our legacy with my life, without fail," Izanagi promised.

Kenshin hugged his little sister, placing his head against hers. "I'll always be here with you. I know it'll be difficult, but don't waver. You're prepared, you'll know what to do when the time comes." He kissed the top of her head and stepped back.

Aya nodded, her resolve unbroken. "I will do my part, brother. Nagi-chan will help ensure our survival. I'm ready."

As Aya entered the stasis seal, Izanagi activated the final layer of protection, "We'll be right back," he vowed as a powerful illusion that would hide the chamber from all but the most determined searchers. Aya's form shimmered and then stilled, preserved for the future.

Eiji and Kagura stood in a dimly lit chamber, the soft glow of the visual seals casting eerie shadows on their faces. The seals, inscribed meticulously on the walls, replayed the events of that fateful day, a haunting reminder of their clan's downfall.

Kagura's fists clenched at her sides, her eyes burning with anger and sorrow. "I knew it, we knew the truth…but to actually see it."

Eiji's expression was grim, his gaze fixed on the replayed scenes of the battle. "The Second Hokage saw us as a threat. Our sealing techniques, our knowledge... he feared what we could become. He doesn't pull this off on his own, we still lack for the complete picture like who else was involved. I don't like keeping this or the fact that the Kuria brothers' responsibility could be connected to Kushina Uzumaki and her grandmother. Kushina alone…" Eiji sighed hopelessly. He'd been trying to convince his sister for years, but she wasn't hearing it.

Kagura shook her head, tears welling in her eyes. "It matters not. Simply to use our kindness and generosity against us, to betray us so completely... it's unforgivable no matter who it may be."

Eiji placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "We will make them pay, Kagura. We will rebuild our clan, reclaim our heritage, and ensure that Konoha, whoever else, faces the consequences of their treachery. We just have to do it our way, this plan is working, and it is slow, but we are getting the results and information we need."

Kagura nodded, her resolve hardening. "We must focus our family members further, find the relics and scrolls that survived. We'll need to switch our focus for a time, find…Aya. And concerning Kushina, you're right but we're in a precarious situation as it is. And we really need Akatsuki thinking they're the trendsetters for as long as possible."

"For now… Contact Nao, tell him to engage Tsunade Senju." Kaguya bit her lower lip considering her words and then nodded stiffly. "It's far earlier than expected, but do it. Meanwhile, we'll start our search."

"Just leave it to me," Eiji placed his hand supportively on his sister's shoulder. "This could prove a large advantage to us if it plays out how you're thinking, but it's all going to come down to timing." He turned to look at a similar container as featured in Aya's replay, filled with fluids at the opposite end of the chamber.

"And still we will rise," Eiji said softly, his voice filled with conviction.

The visual seals flickered off, leaving Eiji and Kagura in the dim chamber, the weight of their ancestors' sacrifice heavy upon them. The silence stretched, punctuated only by their breathing and the distant echoes of the village. They knew that to honor their fallen kin, they had to delve deeper into the history of Aya Uzumaki.