⟩Whirlpool's Very Own⟩
Chapter 1.3 (part 3): Comradery
⟩W•V•Ø⟩
Naruko lay on the ground breathing laboriously, her chest heaving up and down as she gasped for breath. Her forehead dripped heavily with sweat. The girl's blonde hair was soaked and matted, dirtied and drenched with water from having been blown off the beach of the island and into the freezing waters several times over by Kayo's hands. Thanks to that, her disheveled hair matted flat against her head; soaked bangs hanging limply over her eyes.
"Agh!" The girl whimpered in pain as she took another labored breath, her body stiff and shaking with aching soreness from the beating she'd been the beneficiary of these past few… she didn't know how much time had passed.
Before the intense torture -meaning training- session, both brothers spent time working with her on correcting the basics and especially her taijutsu. She only knew the foundational stances and stage one Academy Standard techniques. And both brothers Improved her knowledge on that to give her the needed foundation to build on and further taught Naruko their Swift Fist.
Meanwhile, her shadow clones were split up into small groups and assigned ninjutsu, bukijutsu, battojutsu, kenjutsu books and scrolls to learn from while being instructed by a shadow clone of Kei. Any attempts at genjutsu and fuinjutsu would have to wait.
Naruko had a great foundation due to her tenet, but her mind wasn't nearly ready or yet flexible enough to split focus and resources towards both instinctively operating in the complex, everyday physics of an artificial realm, and also maintaining the brain power to focus, interpret, and memorize two types of art that were mentally intensive than any physical exercise and most other jutsu disciplines.
Before beginning, Kei explained to Naruko; as well as made sure she understood that while several hours ticked by in the outside world, the fuinjutsu scroll that emulated and recognized the existence of himself, his brother, and Naruko - would also execute the same or similar methods to create, stabilize, and maintain the 'scroll-grounds' as a true 'alternative reality'.
The Hidden Whirlpool environment they were training in would last, about, one month's time. Now that they were past more than half of that month, the remaining time was mostly spent on taijutsu, chakra control manipulation, and kenjutsu shurikenjutsu training.
The meaning to doing so was the fact Naruko was behind in her academy lessons and also required an intensive breakthrough in chakra and basic skills to, at the least, catch up to her peers. Especially those like Sasuke and Shino. That's how Kei explained it at the beginning, and so the 'time' was meant to help hey make up for that lost time, while also, hopefully, improving overall.
Through most of it however, the blonde jinchuriki girl was beginning to think that Kayo didn't truly understand the definitions of 'training', 'practice', and 'improvement', because he seemed to be a bit too serious through everything. Naruko just thanked the gods that older brother, Kei, was always present and kept his younger brother in check when he began going overboard.
And he tended to go overboard a lot.
That aside; the scroll-scape they were in operated by a pre-coded, pre-determined set of laws set within the seal's formula. Providing its realistic environment and physics; like gravity. The formula making up the seal made it more than just the paper it was written on.
She only understood the differences between 'here' and the 'real world'... That chakra exhaustion was negligible up to a point, as well as the feeling of exhaustion as the word was traditionally defined, would be vastly different. However, the physical feeling of pain, exhaustion, and wear would still exist…which was Naruko's current issue. She felt completely drained despite knowing she was capable of continuing.
•
"C'mon, get the hell up, 'Ruko. You can rest when you're back in the real world. We're almost done anyway, but you gotta push now; through the exhaustion and the pain." That was Kayo speaking of course; while giving the young girl a kick to her ribs and making the blonde girl yelp loudly. The kick forced her to roll over onto her back. She found herself staring up at her vassal with a pained, yet annoyed frown gracing her features cutely…unknown to her.
Kayo only grinned.
Meanwhile, the simulated night sky was dotted with white-hot burning gasses known as stars, sparked through the evening skies and winked unconcerned by Naruko's plight and frustrations.
"Kayo…don't." Kei sighed out, standing several yards away from the two. "Let her gather herself first." Arms crossed over his chest. "Her Evolution won't truly set in until later and you know that." The Kei doppelganger said easily.
"True, but this brat is still making the same mistakes…" Kayo complained, his attention focused on his older brother for a moment, giving Naruko more reprieve. "Stop babying the girl. Her enemies ain't gonna give a damn and I'm gone make sure she endures." The younger brother scoffed.
"You heard me, Little Bro. Back off…now" Kei threatened, his tone leaving no room to argue. "Matter of fact, it's time to switch out anyway. Stand aside." Kei added, shoving his younger brother aside.
Kayo scowled irritably as he stepped away from the jinchuriki girl without another word at Naruko's lack of perseverance and endurance. He shrugged, "holy…hell, we gotta do better than this." He mumbled while walking off.
Kei and Naruko both ignored Kayo's hissy fit as the eldest brother sat beside Naruko. The young man presented a dry cloth and began gently dabbing the sweat and blood from her eyes and face.
He sighed. "My brother is acting like a brat, but he's also right. That pain and exhaustion you're feeling, that's the key. Initially your body will tell you, 'No Mas, or no more. You gotta push through that feeling. Doing that activates more brain chemistry, more oxygen through your body, increased blood flow, and other benefits you'll discover later on. That's how you get your second wind, level up faster, improve quicker, become more aware and even understanding. Your ninja IQ improves, making you more acute, intuitive, and understanding. You gain clarity about the world and situations you didn't possess before. Your senses become heightened. Your chakra increases in tandem with chakra control. It's possible to be 5x improved in one go. I know that sounds otherworldly, but it isn't much. The world is grand and ever changing. As soon as you improve, there's someone else in the world doing the same or working twice as hard as anyone else." Kei was quick to add on that last part as he saw Naruko's eyes glowing.
Naruko's expression turned to a mix of a frown and pouting. "No way anyone's training harder than me," she muttered, crossing her arms defiantly.
"Good," Kei grinned.
He wanted to pop any and all ideas or misunderstandings she might get from this little talk he was giving her. There was nothing about her motivation though. One thing he left out was that getting her to breakthrough would easily make her stronger and more capable than anyone in her class. And failing that, she'd at least be on even ground.
The only problem with that was Sasuke's exaggerated ability, or as Kayo called it, overvalued perceived wealth. Which was a fancy way of saying he passed the eye test. He looked good, came from good stock, a strong clan with a strong history. And so in theory he had to possess true genius level potential. Further signifying genius was the Uchiha fire technique he learned, unarguably placing him as a genius shinobi by Uchiha standards…
Continuing.
Thanks to the village as a whole. The civilians, the Konoha council, the clans, the fan boys/girls…most of the village really. And because the Sharingan was coveted, placed on a pedestal. A bloodline he'd yet to activate have Sasuke even more clout.
Kei felt differently, knowing there was a list of others that created or found means and ways to negate or defeat someone with the eye technique.
Rather, they hadn't seen anything yet. Kei couldn't wait until the light shone brightest on the largest stage. The open world.
Naruko wouldn't learn until she was ready. Many facts would be kept in the dark for now. But with time everything came to the light.
Itachi's little plan didn't play out as expected, and her true message was lost in translation from the start. Itachi gave people too much credit for having common sense and reading between the lines. Especially that little brother of hers, who was said to be a genius, but wasn't sharp enough to notice what was in front of him if he cared to find it.
Kei knew he was one of the few outside of the small circle of village leaders that were supposed to know. But it was Itachi herself that let him in on it, sort of as a stop gap if Sasuke should be swayed for the worse, but there were no promises. It was possibly to Itachi's detriment though. She practiced heavily in stoicism, so being around them growing up and knowing that, they really didn't hide their feelings well. Kei realized the change in Itachi days prior to her actions…and confronted her about it. That was when it happened.
Although that didn't necessarily mean Itachi told Kei everything, because becoming a world class nuke-nin running with a group of world class criminals was something that requires some secrecy. And he didn't pretend to understand what she ultimately hoped to gain in the end.
Somewhat fortunately for them.
Sasuke was considered great because, Uchiha. Because, the last Uchiha. Because, Sharingan.
Sasuke was skilled, but so were a baker's dozen of other academy kids in the same class. Kei could see that. Never mind the up and coming youth from around the nations.
Naruko sighed and winced as Kei gently took the girl by one of her arm's and began to pull her help. "Come on now, get up." He said softly, making his voice sound as soothing as possible.
"Ye… Fine". Naruko sighed as she felt Kei help her up so she could stand on her own. Once she was back on her feet she tried standing up straight, her breathing still slightly sporadic. "Wha-what…are we doing now, then?" The blonde asked as Kei released her, however she soon felt that her legs had become jelly. A soft cry of surprise escaped her lips, "kaa!" As she practically fell into Kei's arms.
"Take it easy, Naruko-chan." Kei quietly advised as she collapsed into him, his arms encircling her small frame protectively against him. "Take a moment." His words earned a silent nod from the blonde jinchuriki as she took advantage of the situation to hug herself to him before finally able to stand on her own.
When she was standing straight and didn't seem like she may fall again, Kei nodded. "All good now?"
"Yes," She answered, rubbing her right arm with her left hand sheepishly.
"Okay, um," Kei glanced at his little brother as he thought about what to have her do next. He looked back to Naruko and summoned a Shadow Clone.
"What!" Naruko yelled, incredulous as a clone of Kayo also came over.
"Don't worry, remember we're doing this in levels. You're fine." Kei reassured her with a smile as he turned away to talk to his brother. The chakra entities began game planning.
"So… What are you thinking?" Kayo asked as they both huddled together.
Again Kei sighed, a little frustrated by the way things turned out. 'Maybe I miscalculated.' He thought, groaning internally as he looked back to his brother. "I think we've pushed her all we could. And in your case, you pushed her too much!" Kei whispered harshly.
Kayo sighed. "Well, we're only getting this one shot at it. Ya know the twins will be pissed if we squander this part of the assignment. We don't got forever either, so I don't think it matters what we do…we just better do something…"
"Er, Kei?" Kayo's chakra imprint asked as he looked to see the imprint older brother was no longer listening.
Naruko was now going at it with clones of both brothers, being mindful to utilize the techniques taught to her earlier in the temporary fixture of time and space. From what he could see; the girl was fighting an uphill battle as the clones adjusted to her fighting style.
Kei grinned easily, folding his arms over his chest at ease. "Looks like we spoke too soon. Naruko's almost at her breaking point, see her frustration starting to show through?" He chuckled as Kayo watched on.
Turns out Naruko actually did do some leveling up and both brothers watched as the girl continued going at both shadow clones. Naruko performed convincing techniques and agile maneuvers that she either hadn't been seen pulling off before, were entirely unorthodox just like her fighting style in general, or struggled with prior. But everything she did now possessed utilizing what she been learning or what her clones had been practicing.
Naruko was being beaten but gave as good as she got more than once. However, like any skilled fighter or ninja, the clones were beginning to work together to overwhelm the blonde girl as they figured out her attack patterns.
"Ahh, this is beginning to become desperate." Kayo frowned noticing Naruko's eyes flashing deep red intermittently. "Never mind frustration, she might just snap!" He added worriedly.
"Well, she's your responsibility and you're the one who pushed too forcefully. And yet, this is what we needed to happen." Kei turned to Kayo. "Don't complain, don't make excuses. Bring her home…and don't push anymore than what's needed. Finish this, get it over with." Kei sighed and promptly disappeared, the imprint of Kei evaporating.
"Wah!- Oh shit, no… Kei!" Kayo yelled angrily. "If you don't get your ass back here…" But, Kei was long gone…
"FUCK! That asshole." Kayo cursed as he suddenly heard a loud bang followed by a rumbling that sounded like one hell of a thunderstorm. "On God and them, someone's gonna pay for my bad mood." He swore, turning around as Naruko screamed out.
He turned to see Kei's clone disappear as well. "No, stop!" Kayo tried to halt his clone. That was when his clone landed a hard two kick combination. The first kick nailed her abdomen, with a following push kick to her chest that hurtled Naruko into one of several dilapidated village homes dotting the beachfront. Only for said wooden home to collapse on top of her after she fell inside it, kicking up dust and debris.
"Pfft!" Kayo snickered, feeling too amused to hold back his laughter as he dismissed his clone and started making his way over to the scene of the destruction. "Ay brat, you good in there!" He called out.
"Dammit! Damn you!" Naruko cursed as a deep red -not blue, not white- red blast of chakra exploded outward hurling debris in every direction.
Kayo stood in place, unblinking as a piece of escaping debris smacked across his face, slid off, and continued bouncing down the beach. Kayo blinked and continued watching while forcing away the tremors in his body caused by the sickening feel that accompanied that red chakra.
Naruko stood up, more debris being swept up by the thick red chakra surrounding her and throwing it around the beach.
Kayo was sure to notice that her eyes were equally as red; no longer their beautiful and unique pale violet and bright clear blue gems respectively. He could also read the complete frustration and anger in her expression. She looked a little betrayed as a tail began to grow at the tailbone of her back.
Kayo fought against his instinct to immediately run, quenching his fear as a deep shiver ran through his bones that almost felt as if they might snap at any moment. 'She's still the same lost, naive, scared girl.' He reminded himself, swallowing hard. 'This is good, all part of the plan-,' he was thinking before he was cut off!
Naruko looked around, confused by the sudden whisper of a deep, hate filled voice…tempting her…and demanding she release it and ruthlessly annihilate Kayo into nothing but a red paste on the ground!
She started to respond until she felt a moment of passing fear! Not from her, but from Kayo…because of her. She ignored the thing as she wondered why he would fear her?
'Shut up! I'm not listening to you, but I am… just, so…mad at him!'
"You asshole!" She screamed. And a sonic boom was unleashed!
Sharp, powerful, and dynamic winds carrying chakra blew past and through him, almost unlocking his feet from the beach sand. A difficult prospect to be sure. Kayo crossed his arms before him as he was forced to lose sight of the blonde girl as he closed his eyes and ducked his head, waiting for it to pass. His knees and arms shook, his teeth talked as he grit them, and he was sure he would be thrown from the beach. However after another couple seconds and just before he could be pulled more than a few centimeters from his precarious grounding.
Kayo's head snapped up as it finally and suddenly died out. He immediately raised his head and located Naruko. She had yet to move as he focused on Naruko. "G-huh?!" He managed to get out.
Before he could do or say anything, Kayo gasped as Naruko, on all fours, rushed him in a blazing fury of red. All he knew before he was torn apart was that she made no effort or attack to do so. She literally ran through him, allowing the red hurricane of chakra behind him to viciously cycle through his midsection, destroying his lower half on a molecular scale.
Freshly handicapped, very quickly and horrifically at that. What was left of him fell into a splattered mess of his own gore and innards, needles to say there was plenty of blood. There was some simulated pain, mostly muted by the dynamics of the scrolls coding.
He was forced to cough up a bit of blood, waiting for the scroll to adjust this…ugly yet… insightful situation he suddenly found himself in. "Fucking Uzumaki and their "We're born seals masters genetics"." He mocked. "This is fucked…matter of fact I'm cussing Kagura out the next time I see her. This is no accident."
While Kayo was having a hissy fit all the blood and gore disappeared. Leaving the beach front unblemished. That was when the particles of light began making itself present and coming together to reform Kayo's body. To be sure, this was a strongly written and enhanced scroll, far outside the everyday or average knowledge of today's seal masters.
Anything less and the seal would've broken earlier, ending this little experiment. All in all, this had been a success. They wanted and needed Naruko to be able to tap into the Kyubi's power indirectly as to unlock certain key seal barriers. And this was the best way without exposure while also making it safe for all involved.
As Kayo lifted himself up, lower body and all. He sighed and started brushing the sand off himself and out of his wild, mangled hair. Before he could begin looking for Naruko, he looked around curiously as he began to hear crying nearby.
Naruko looked miserable, betrayed, scared, and confused. So much so, he thought the blonde could go into shock. And Kayo didn't need his silver polished eyes to tell him that. What happened before was expected and what happened after was expected. She would be able to pull on the Kyubi's chakra a bit; later being able to harness more as she matured and grew in strength, but it would only last a few minutes within the scroll's safety mechanisms which activated to snuff out that flame. Only access was provided, not utilization. That was up to her.
The crying and despair was not a part of that plan. But it was expected. The tales off history Kayo explained to her before they began only mentioned the Kyubi in passing a few times. Mentioning the nine-tails was done to see if she held any knowledge of her burden before going any further. It was plain to see that Naruko's knowledge on the Kyubi was only what she learned from the academy. No sign of recognition in her eyes as it pertained to her relation to it.
Now it was time for damage control. As the scroll's usefulness was now exceeded, the chakra imprint of Kayo vanished in a sheen of light. And Naruko would regain consciousness.
⟩W•V•Ø⟩
⟩Undercover Kei: The Past Mission⟩
"Best to be waking up, we'll be there in five minutes."
"...I hear you, old man. Appreciate the wake-up call." Kuria Kei yawned, thanking the captain of the small fishing boat he'd hitched a ride from for this sudden 'mission'. Originally he questioned the motives, but since starting out he keyed into the facts given the secrecy of it.
Of course he had to grease the boatman's palms a bit and the room and board was definitely nothing to write home about, but nothing was free after all.
Lazily he looked out over the edge of the fishing and shrimping boat, staring into azure blue waters as the Land of Waves appeared on the horizon a few hours before sunset. The skies were beginning to fill with the familiar and vibrant hues of a day nearing its end. The sun fading into the background presented a glorious image, shooting it's dimming rays into the sparse cloud cover above.
As he looked back to the island he could see the approach of the pier and the beginnings of a super bridge in the distance serving as a noticeable and symbolic landmark, but it appeared that construction had only gotten so far. Maybe little more than a quarter of the bridge currently stood, partially wrapped in oversized tarps, exposed rebar sticking up from the concreting that would serve as part of the bridge's inner support system.
It wouldn't be long now. 'Thank the heavens for this one,' he thought. 'When that old boy and his sister came up on me some years back talking about my life and my heritage, and wanting to right a wrong...well...Didn't think I'd be an errand boy for our female cohorts.' Kei shook his head as he pulled at his water dampened cloak.
He had his first experience and the pleasure of being awakened by one of the ANBU working for the Hokage, first thing in the morning...
⟩The Mission⟩
"What the fuck!" Kei cursed after being awakened via sword sheath to the head by an ANBU operative disguised by a cat mask. The sudden wake-up call immediately put Kei in a bit of a mood as he set blurry eyes on the cat masked operator with long, flowing purple hair. "Damn yo, what is it?" He snapped, taking in the ANBU while still coming out of his sleep with half-lidded eyes. Kei frowned, blinking away the blur of sleep from his silver eyes when he didn't get an answer.
Unfortunately, Kei didn't recognize the ANBU as ANBU. Worse, they knew each other personally, but only as passing acquaintances that held the same sentiments towards Naruko's treatment in Konoha.
Kei sucked in a breath of regret as he realized too late he should've heeded what he said as he recognized just who he'd been talking to. The captain of the guard, so to speak. Upon wakening he's thought it was his brother screwing with him. He further realized that wasn't the case when his bedroom began filling with killing intent and he could see the woman's eyes narrowed at him from behind that mask as he shuddered his next breath.
"That's…definitely my bad, Neko-san. I didn't know it was you. I meant to say… Good morning? What's up?" He said slowly, leaning away from the aggravated black-ops kunoichi standing over his bed.
Let it be known that Kei lived by many mottos. One which he phrased, 'never scorn a kunoichi, beware the scorned kunoichi'. An unwritten rule, mostly common sense, and as such there were many guys that didn't heed it as they should. Sometimes there was no need for them to act, as indirect as karma could be; it always came around full circle.
Directly, there were too many ways for kunoichi to have their get back, especially to men. It didn't help that nearly all of them were desirously beautiful. And many kunoichi knew they held certain advantages. Some openly spoken about, but most others, not so much.
And Happy Ending revenge plots were only read about for a reason. He'd studied those horror stories and that shit was particularly cruel. He still has nightmares from the graphic depictions at times.
This particular kunoichi was cerebral with a bladed edge. She'd just put him to the sharp end of her sword, clean her blade off, and be done with it. If he were unlucky, he'd get a week long torture session.
"..." Kei soon felt as if his very soul was being penetrated and weighed by the female's stare before she finally answered. "Hokage-sama would like to see you in his office as soon as possible." She said in a clipped tone before disappearing in a puff of diffusing chakra.
Kei blinked at the spot she'd been standing as he started wondering if he'd done something wrong. He'd only been called on by the Hokage a few times in his career outside of mission prep, and those times were usually because of some ignorant mess his younger brother had gotten himself involved in.
Outside of missions, he hadn't nearly been involved with the village enough to see the venerable Hokage as often as some.
"Please…don't let this be about some bullshit Kayo got into, or I'm going to kill him. It's my off day and it's five in the morning right now." Kei yawned, stepping out of bed with plans to get in a quick shower before getting dressed and heading out.
Kei was in his early twenties, already among those select ninja with a budding reputation, and a somewhat growing AKA. Matter of fact he truly wasn't all that known. Unlike his ninja peers with a reputation and an Also Known As moniker. Therefore, it came as a great shock to Kei when the Hokage informed him that…
"You've been personally asked to handle a mission, Kei-kun. What we like to call a 'Gratuity Assignment'." The third Hokage informed him, lighting his wood carved tobacco pipe. Casually puffing on the smoking pipe, the office filled with a light, pleasant aroma reminiscent of pine and oak. Well, he didn't know about others, but he thought it was pleasant.
Meanwhile, Kei blinked blankly as he stared at the Hokage mouth agape in confusion. "A Gratuity Mission? From whom, I don't think I can remember anyone outside of Konoha that well!" Kei exclaimed.
"Mm," Hiruzen nodded as he sat up in his chair and placed his pipe aside. "The request asks for you personally and comes from someone in Hot Water country, I was hoping you'd be able to tell me who it could be...curious." The Hokage mumbled before falling silent.
A mission request that asked for a specific ninja wasn't unheard of, but usually the person making the request was known to the village or the ninja in question, otherwise there was a chance of it being a setup. However, the mission request had come with full payment for a B-rank assessment and there was little chance of such money being wasted just to murder a little known shinobi.
The mission itself was estimated to last about 10 days. It was nothing remarkable, an escort was needed while traveling to a few nearby towns from Hot Water to negotiate and peddle mercantile services to new distributors. One couldn't easily overlook the fact that it could be a convenient cover though.
Looking over the request once more, Sarutobi made up his mind.
"Perhaps you've forgotten the person in question? Anyway, I can approve the mission and you can leave once prepared if you're up for it. Here's the file...also, your 'benefactor' stated a request for some supplies of Konoha make you'll deliver to them at arrival. A short item list is included in the mission briefing."
Kei blinked curiously as he took the scroll from his village leader and stood from his seat. He bowed, "I'll take the mission, by your leave…" he said quietly as he turned to depart the office, closing the door soundlessly after himself.
After getting back home Kei felt the tattoo behind his right ear pulsating. The tattoo was a seal that his Uzumaki benefactors had placed on every member sometime before their final, in-person group meeting. The seal was hidden within a tattooed image of the Uzumaki spiral.
He placed two fingers to the seal pushing a bit of chakra into it and opening a communication link. Communication took place within the mind, utilizing the same neural networks and inner brain waves that mind/body techniques relied on to create or utilize a mindscape. A bit of mental juggling was required as making contact split the user's vision between one eye remaining in the 'here and now', while a miniature physical mindscape was perceived by the other. Giving participants a secretive manner of physically meeting with one another
The distance between them didn't matter. And it doubled as a location beacon to keep track of everyone. A pleasant but unexpected side affect was due to the chakra in their bodies. Empathic lanes between everyone's minds were widened which allowed for perception of one another's emotions. Especially when those feelings became particularly strong or overwhelming.
When it was placed, everyone's mental awareness and consciousness widened as the Whirlpool Group became much more aware of each other. Everyone's location and presence could be deciphered in this way. They could keep tabs on, communicate, or know if someone died, needed help, or lost their connection to the seal.
Kei closed one eye as Kagura appeared before him.
"Have you been assigned and briefed yet?"
"Right on time, I was just about to pack. I'm heading out in an hour. It's still early here, so no point in waiting until tomorrow." Kei answered as he retrieved a scroll and looked it over to make sure it held everything he could need. He still packed a small bag for essentials he'd need to have open access to and could be quickly reached.
"Good. I'll also tell you that your mission isn't a complete lie either." Kagura vaguely explained, smiling pleasantly in the face of Kei's annoyance.
"So I am an errand boy." Kei frowned. This wasn't his first time doing a mission like this.
"The only one saying that is you. You're already going that way. And when did you start asking so many questions?" Kagura asked, still smiling.
"You sound concerned and I'm going that way because you and your brother set it up that way." Kei shook his head.
"For a good reason. That's why I'm being so pleasant. Would you rather not be informed and left in the dark?" The Uzumaki inquired.
"Hell no." Kei growled.
"Then we're done discussing." Kagura finished and ended the connection before Kei could think of responding.
"Fine. Do whatever the hell you want then." Kei huffed to himself as he slung his backpack over one shoulder and his the scroll on his person. On the way out, he write a note for his brother then left out the door.
'On the clock. Don't wait up.' The note read, along with instructions for what to help Naruko with.
⟩On the road⟩
Eiji made contact with Kei about an hour into his trip; this was after he got tired of her bitching about Kei's responses during their short conversation.
He decided to explain why they needed him to get to Wave. The Hot Springs part of the mission was official with Konoha, but the mission's timeline was cover to have him help with a small situation in Wave. He wouldn't be in Hot Springs for more than 24 hours.
Before leaving for Wave, Kei was to make a small supply pick up from their contact in Hot Springs, then send the cache of goods sealed in scrolls to Tsutsuji in Water Country in an effort of winning over the rebel faction to form an allowance before the civil war ended. The thought was that if their Whirlpool Group showed interest afterwards and the rebels came out on top without their help, it would pay as being disingenuous.
A friend of the Whirlpool Group who worked as a fisherman would courier the supplies first. Then transport Kei to Wave and bring him back on the return trip once done. While there, Kei would assist Sakaeru with a matter that had come up. Besides that, he was chosen to also lift the woman's spirits and keep her focused on the big picture of the group's goals. There were questions of her resolve wavering due to her assignment.
Kei was unsure what was happening with his teammates as none of them knew more than they needed to. He chalked it up to being a small piece of a larger picture, otherwise there was an increased risk of revealing themselves by way of mix-ups and slipups. Better they not reveal things by not knowing details.
After a couple days, Kei was on his way to Wave after making the delivery to Tsutsuji and a brief exchange of 'be safe'. It was all very straightforward and uneventful. His time in Kiri was also short-lived, staying around for about eight hours total. Eiji and Tsutsuji both advised him against entering into the forests and any village along the coast. A large number of civilians were sympathetic to the bloody Mizukage. That sort of attention was not worth attracting.
Neither of them wanted him getting involved or being seen by the Mizukage's men, bloodline bigots, or sympathizers. Although he was told that eventually the war would make its way out towards those areas of the coasts that had yet to be effected.
The meeting was made in a small, barely operating bar and inn off the so far unaffected eastern coast. The boatman didn't care, he remained in the boat and positioned himself a few hundred yards away. Kei would have to signal him back once he was ready to depart. Then they would be off to Wave.
The aid he delivered to Tsutsuji happened to account for a large portion of their weapons and supplies cache.
Kei was surprised to be given something in return. Tsutsuji passed him a small care package meant for Sakaeru. Once again he was beginning to feel like an errand boy.
As he thought more about it however, he found he actually didn't mind this assignment. Sure, there was no action, but he knew they needed to keep to a low profile. The Whirlpool Group was known by few, but their footprint was large due to the previous 3 years of preparations. It took the Uzumaki 2 years before that to gather everyone together.
Akatsuki was only vaguely aware of the existence an entity calling itself the Whirlpool Group, while W-G were much more aware of them. Destroying towns and villages for pay would do that, although the general public still had no idea of either groups existence. Their more immediate concerns were keeping the former Sannin, Konoha, Cloud, and Stone ignorant; a situation that was very fluid so far.
Akatsuki knew of the group, but not its members or goals. Which was pulled off by not getting in their way, having near opposite motivations, and not associating directly with those that previously hired the mercenary group. That was easier said than done but where there's a will, there's a way. To be sure everyone knew it was just a matter of time before it couldn't be helped.
Kirigakure and Wave were currently the top exceptions. The Whirlpool Group had to acknowledge and work with a few people to get their projects up and running.
Despite the lack of activity, it was relaxing just being able to breath. Kei never felt fully at ease in Konoha, both before and after he'd met and teamed up with those red headed siblings, but more so now than before; so he decided to take advantage of being outside his home village for awhile.
He had several days and figured if he finished early, he could use any remaining days as down time. Whatever the situation in Wave, it didn't sound like a large issue. At least no one gave that impression so far.
Naturally he wondered what the issue on Sakaeru's end could be that was worth risking their cover. So much so that he was required to see her in person when a virtual face to face meet was possible with their comm-seals. Kagura didn't say, wouldn't say and Eiji asked for trust and only stated he would know when he got there.
Once the ship docked in the shipping port, Kei decided it was time to get to it. The boatman wouldn't be able to hold around since Gato had a stranglehold on the docks with severe penalties and upsell fees.
"Thanks for the surf, Captain. Stay Wavey" He grinned, shoving a grip of ryo into the hand of the boatman. "We'll see you again soon."
"Be sure ya do, sonny. You younglings have given an old man hope again." The boat captain said gruffly, a thick and finely rolled cigar between his teeth.
Kei turned and blinked at the boatman with surprise in his silver eyes. Everyone in the group knew the boatman, but no one had ever heard him speak. Tsutsuji didn't compare, she was good for words or clipped responses, but this man's vocabulary consisted entirely on grunts and nods. No one knew his name and so they all took to calling him Boatman or Captain.
"Off with ya, less we both be troubled." He grumbled, pulling his hat lower over his head and shaggy, dark hair.
"Heh. Take care old man." Kei turned again and quickly departed the fishing boat before the captain got nervous about being seen by any of Gato's men.
The old boat captain mentioned something about 'Gato and back in his day…' as he began preparing his boat for its return trip.
Kei was slightly curious as to why Gato would care about him, it wasn't a Gato owned boat, but he'd been told that was the problem. Screwing with a town's transportation and porting meant nothing less than a hostile takeover of this entire island. Kei only knew generalities about Gato, but now he knew this guy was a obvious problem. He figured that's part of the reason he were here as he proceeded down the dock.
If only Gato owned boats were allowed while those that weren't, were charged a premium for docking. That obviously meant those that couldn't pay likely found their boats set to flames and sunken to the bottom of the ocean, or if nice enough, stolen from them and forced to work for Gato.
Kei already planned to avoid the creep and his thugs anyway, as well as anything he had a hand in, so it wasn't a big deal for him to agree to heed his elder's advice to lay low.
Kei tore off his cloak, which was soaking wet from a earlier rain shower while standing out on the deck. He stuffed the thing into a nearby trash bin at the dock exit and made his way up the stairs into town. He would meet up with Sakaeru a little later. First, he was going to find a local restaurant in town. 'Fishing towns have great seafood!' He thought, grinning with anticipation. 'Sakaeru will keep for a while!'
Kei laughed to himself and walked a bit faster while considering what he should eat. And most importantly what to drink it down with.
⟩W•V•Ø⟩
Two years, she'd been stationed on the island of Wave under Gato's employ by the directive of the twins, Uzumaki Eiji and Uzumaki Kagura. She didn't mind the assignment at first, truth be told she was excited about the espionage work.
Before those two nosey red heads butted their way into her carefree life she'd never considered what the world might look like without violence or killing involved. Hearing that she might actually be able to help people; people that were weak, poor, infirm, enslaved, and abused in various ways...situations worse than death like being traded for sex or enslaved for various means, even killed for the entertainment of others, or studied for their unique traits.
The thought of helping people without hope and restoring that strength and hope... Restored her faith in mankind. Because the truth was that heroes didn't exist anymore.
Before those two appeared in her life, she felt like her soul was painted black due to feeling responsible for her various acts and indiscretions, whether they were the result of assignments or not. It was with guidance from her Uzumaki benefactors that she freed these people who lacked hope and gave them the ability to make their own choices, to give them strength again. She was so used to seeing the light go out in the eyes of someone by her hand that witnessing the light rekindling in the eyes of a living person was a novel experience for her.
That was likely the reason why she'd been given this assignment instead of one of the others. Especially with her non-attributed mission history as a hired hand. Not a one of the people, towns, or villages she'd worked for previously would keep a written history of her deeds for them. Never mind admitting to even knowing who she is.
For the first time in years she was able to sleep through the night, or wake up in the morning without feeling like being alive was an injustice and a slap to God's face. That didn't mean she no longer suffered from night terrors, or other forms of trauma.
She chose her side long ago and there was no penance from the reaper.
It was just as she thought she was redeeming herself and hurting Gato's business interests that she learned a hard truth. For every person she freed, there were ten more brought in to replace what was lost, something that both angered and frustrated her. She felt like she was running in place the entire time and the assignment that brought light to her dark life now filled it with shades of grey.
She realized she'd somewhat underestimated the seriousness of her assignment and the responsibilities that came with it. Destroying was easy, following orders was not. Dealing with Gato was simple enough, but she was overwhelmed by just how vast the human flesh trade was.
When she tried to speak to Eiji and Kagura about it, they ignored her attempts to make contact after three conversations that ended the same. Do your job, stop overthinking, see the bigger picture, we can't save everyone, you're stronger than this, you're doing great work, don't fail us now, a lot of people are relying on you and us, etc.
She later suspected they already knew things would play out like this. They were nothing if not cerebral and at a glance were capable of reading people and their personalities. She hadn't joined with them for nothing. They were testing her, which was honestly fine by her, they'd doted on her long enough she felt. Her guilt was her problem but knowing you had a problem was easier realized than resolved. And that part was eating away at her.
Then she met Kaiza. A man with true morals, a man, a human who only wanted to do right by his family and community. Sakaeru met him a few months after arriving in Wave on her assignment and despite her position, they became good friends. She let him in when she knew better and now…
She couldn't help it. She found his altruistic nature refreshing, if not naive, but he was the only person she trusted enough to know the truth about her and what she was really doing in Wave.
As a former assassin for hire, revealing her cover had been very risky and went against the basis of espionage, but Kaiza swore to keep her secret and his word was his bond. Besides, what the Uzumaki siblings didn't know wouldn't hurt her.
They got along well enough, although they disagreed on various topics; which they liked to debate about.
Sakaeru disagreed with his approach of openly defying Gato on his own, with no one to watch his back; often telling him that the villagers were far too scared to back him up, and that if he wasn't careful he'd be leaving his family shattered if he died recklessly. Despite that, she found herself admiring his style of 'never say die', as well as respected his strength. Truly a strong fighter for someone who wasn't one by life or trade. For someone who wasn't a trained warrior of any kind the guy was fairly stout.
...And that kid, Inari, loved and was in awe of him for it. She smiled thinking about their interactions together.
For his part, Kaiza would remind her of her failures to truly, meaningfully help ALL people of Wave, and not being aware or wise enough to learn from those failures. While not a born fighter, once Kaiza learned the generalities of the things she was doing or planning to do, he could hold a conversation well enough. Enough to make small suggestions, which surprised Sakaeru given that he 'said' he'd never been more than a laborer.
She wouldn't go so far as to call him a tactician, but he possessed a sharp mind and was definitely a deep thinker, also well versed about people and behavior. In the basics at least.
Kaiza would say her actions weren't nearly enough and essentially amounted to nitpicking. That so long as she and those she worked for refused to bring down Gato outright, or at least deal a decisive heavy blow that stalled out his businesses and interests, that they were merely playing at espionage and delaying the inevitable.
In that way, Kaiza was oblivious. They're would be no stalling out his business or interests. He made enough money for so many people that it wouldn't be a question for those same people to make sure his operations got back underway immediately. And to outright destroy him would only create a power vacuum for much worse to take his place.
Sakaeru only knew Kaiza for a couple of months. She was there to pull him out of flood waters for his crowning achievement of keeping the village from flooding. Kaiza's gain in credibility caused Gato to lose face and the business mogul showed up personally, without his goons to sincerely convince Kaiza he was on the wrong side. For that slight Kaiza blackened Gato's eye and embarrassed the man in front of many village witnesses.
By then, Gato finally had enough of Kaiza. He didn't use his thugs for once, but instead went out of his way to hire a team of ninja from Stone to dismantle Kaiza on display. An hour long exhibition on torture to make sure no one else got the same ideas again.
And Sakaeru...was forced to stand with Gato and watch as her words came to fruition, had to see the looks of shock and betrayal in the eyes of Kaiza's family when they saw her standing with their local bad guy. Everyone watched with morbid fascination as Kaiza was slowly killed against the backdrop of one of the most gloriously hued sunsets she'd ever seen in her life.
Clouds dotted the horizon of gold, orange, purple, and red... And seeing the sight beautiful enough to bring tears to the eyes was contrast against the sounds, sights, and smells of the macabre torture and execution of a man that was more man than most and certainly more so than the squat narcissist responsible for Kaiza's death and dismemberment.
That certainly brought tears to the eyes. But not hers, she was her naturally carefree self, smiled pleasantly while everyone else winced, laughed at Gato's obnoxious jokes. Because she had to.
And meanwhile Kaiza was made a martyr in the worst way and his small family was left to pick up the pieces while the village got to deal with Gato's cruel methods as a consequence.
The villagers of Wave broke in no time and Sakaeru quickly realized how naked she felt without Kaiza around to argue, politic, or critique. She retreated, taking up residence in one of Gato's beach bungalow's. A part of some residential project he was invested in. Before that she lived and worked out of the village, refusing Gato's gifts up until that point. But there was no point in that now.
She also realized that she and Kaiza were the only ones truly willing to step up to Gato. The villagers simply didn't have it in them. Sakaeru didn't blame them for giving in to the tyrant, they weren't warriors after all and lived simple lives.
They were the weak, those she was sent to Wave to help. And she couldn't, not really.
It wasn't their fault...but what she did blame them for was using Kaiza's sacrifice as some sort of horror story. A story told to make sure people remembered their place, stayed in line, and kept their mouths shut. She'd even seen a few use Kaiza's death to scare children into behaving. This, rather than any tales to honor and remember a great man and his sacrifice. An honorable person who was stolen from the world before his time.
She could really do without overhearing their whispers of the grisly tale and pointing her out to people anytime they saw her in the bars or in the village proper.
That old drunk of a bridge builder seemed to understand better than anyone, his idea for the super bridge coming shortly after...but Sakaeru had doubts about that bridge of his. That alone would not stop Gato or hurt his business enough. He was one of the richest men in the Elemental Nations. Gato had various businesses throughout the land. Resources, people, enterprises, and political pull. The bridge was just a tool, one she could see Gato applying a heavy tax on people going in or out.
Wave was just the beginning since the island now served as his headquarters; from there they could work towards making the other dominoes fall. Which would, of course, take time.
In the meantime, Wave was forever scarred. Once Gato made an example out of Kaiza things in Wave became much worse without anyone around to openly defy him. The shipping magnate easily took complete control over the island much quicker...despite Sakaeru's sabotage tactics.
What killed her progress and motivation...what absolutely destroyed her in the end, wasn't Kaiza's death. It was that she had to silently stand by and allow it to happen and do nothing about it...for a greater good.
She was dying inside to do more, but the Uzumaki siblings were very specific about what they wanted, when they wanted it, and how they wanted her to deal with Gato.
After one especially heated argument that threatened to see Sakaeru split from the group and call it quits, the twins explained to the uninhibited woman that they were sorry for Kaiza. However, she needed to properly soften Gato up for his eventual downfall and that she was only one of several cogs in the mechanism that would topple Gato for good... Whatever that meant.
She didn't like it, but better knowing the true purpose for her mission in Wave made her feel better and she had a better idea of how to perform her end more effectively, as well as thoroughly. No matter how much it bothered her.
So far as she knew, it was a sound plan, but as the days flew by, it seemed like it might become too little and too late. This 'plan' wouldn't progress quickly at all and Gato got to rule over the island nearly uncontested that much longer. Starting out, this was not how their plan was foreseen as going, and now she was basically playing things by ear.
⟩Now⟩
Sakaeru stood at the edge of the beach looking out from Wave's coastline, dwelling deep into her thoughts while watching the sun set. The setting sun brightly colored a clear sky exhibiting magnificent hues of red, orange, and yellow; there was even a bit of purple spotted. Clear waters reflected those wondrous colors in glistening sparkles like crystal as their allure painted the calm waves in an otherworldly fashion… Reminding her of him. The residential bungalow she was staying in was definitely located on the best piece of its beach land. Several more like hers were spread down the beachfront, a few nearly completed.
"Kaiza-kun…" Sakaeru sighed softly, once more, feeling absolutely defeated and hopeless. Another full day of what she felt were half-assed spy games was coming to a close.
"Sakaeru-chan looks deep in thought. Come on, love, it can't be that bad…"
The woman shifted her stance to glance heatedly at her smooth talking teammate from over her shoulder, her eyes narrowed at him in annoyance behind a piece of stray hair. Kei met her eyes, eyes which he always thought were quite lovely, and saw they were filled with pain and heartache.
"Kuria Kei, how nice of you to join me." Her words carried their usual sultry lilt of her unique accent, even through the tone of annoyance as she ignored the cool way he swaggered over to her.
Melancholy was all Kei heard, lacing through her voice in a way that he easily noticed and became concerned about.
Sakaeru always maintained a generally sunny and carefree disposition. This wasn't like her, not like the other times he'd seen her. If he hadn't noticed that, the conflict in her facial expression surely would've given her away.
"Don't be upset," he groaned, keeping up his usual character and mannerisms while sweeping his hand through his thick, loosely braided hair with a tired sigh. "I've been here awhile-,"
"I know that, you jerk." Sakaeru gently shrugged her shoulders - the sleeves of her kimono style top barely resting off her shoulders against her upper arms revealing fair skin from her chest to her neck.
The styling was far from traditional, revealing a slight cleavage as the material loosely hugged and lined her body correctly, perfectly tailored. It barely stretched past her thighs with a slit at the right hip. An inner stitched lining like boy shorts hid what was beneath. Nothing more than long legs adorned in black mesh from the thighs down was exposed. Gold reflective whirlpool patterns designed the smooth deep black cloth that made up the kimono. It was outlined by a stitching of silver with further silver accents making up the entirety of the under hem. A pale blue obi rested and was intricately tied into a large ribbon at an angle just behind her left hip.
The entire dressing of the material comfortably rested over and around her voluptuous body. Looking further would show black painted nails and purple ninja sandals.
"I know, Kei. I could sense you...I was just thinking." Sakaeru sighed slowly making Kei think she sounded tired. She waved her hand as if to dismiss his concerned look as their eyes continued to meet. The long kimono sleeve hiding the hand gesture as she did.
Kei looked at Sakaeru, not at all believing her. He turned to gaze out at the water while a short hush filled with the sounds of ocean waves fell over them.
Sakaeru seemed to be completely lost in thought. "What are you seeing out there, love. What are you thinking about?" He asked keenly, putting his hands into the pockets of his black harem style pants as the sea breeze swept over them.
Sakaeru raised a hand to sweep aside a few loose hairs as the ocean breeze swept over her. She hummed thoughtfully and closed her eyes, tilting her head slightly. "Hmm...a shining star perhaps?" She smiled coyly, turning her gaze to an amused looking Kei.
"Oh?" Kei questioned with a raised eyebrow and a slight smirk, willing to play her game if it placed her back in her usual character again.
"Well, it's no matter." The woman responded, no longer smiling. "I believe you'll see for yourself." Sakaeru smiled with a self-assured nod.
"No worries then, love." Kei smiled, deciding not to comment on her mood which was in stark contrast to the last time he'd seen the beautiful woman. He knew she'd talk when she was ready.
He remained at her side, a supportive aura coming from him while looking out to the sea along with her until she was ready. Kei reached out to move the loose hair behind her ear so he could properly see her face. As he did, he gently caressed her cheek, but that made her lightly flinch away. "Kei, please..." She whispered, shrugging away.
"You're annoyed with me." He sighed, digging his sandaled toes into some of the beach sand.
She tried to smile, "Annoyed. Not at you. This is enough. We don't need to be seen together. I was just...paying respects to a friend."
Kei nodded. "Aright. After you, love."
Sakaeru nodded silently and turned to leave the beach.
Kei lagged behind before following her. He knelt down and scooped up a handful of sand. Holding the sand between both hands, he said a short prayer; not knowing who it was that Sakaeru seemed to be mourning.
"...Blessed be." He finished quietly and tossed the sand into the water. He glanced up at the setting sun in the distance, painting the horizon a variety of colorful pastels, before turning to catch up with Sakaeru.
"The Uzumaki told me nothing... Just to get here and assist." Kei stated as they left the beach and disappeared into bungalow sitting at the edge of light foresting.
"I hate that they tend do that, but I guess it's better to get the information from the source." Sakaeru sighed as she led the way through the bungalow. "When you arrived, did you pass through the village?" She later asked.
Kei took in the interior of the house she was staying in. Outside, a stairway circled around the hut styled home. It turned into a deck platform that wrapped around at the center to a rear and front entrance. It was created entirely of wood which explained the sparse trees of the area. The front door opened into an open floor plan and while made like a bungalow, the interior didn't stick to that theme. Modern made windows were spread around the round shaped house. A spiral staircase led up to a second story where a large open area maintained a long sized bed, walk in closet, full bathing room, and a office space with plenty room to spare.
Sakaeru did a great interior job. The floor was dressed by exotic but tasteful carpets. Silk drapes dressed the windows. The lighting was completely natural, bright during the day while lit aroma candles set a relaxed, island energy with evening style lighting. Wall torches seated in the right places and several more candles resting on a table by the door where Sakaeru placed her keys, best to it was a bamboo coat rack. Candles sat on accessory tables beside the couch and love seat on either side with a few books and scrolls in the slots beneath the tabletops. Also on a silk draped hearth.
The entrance led into an open sitting area with a pale yellow couch and loveseat decorated with off-white colored throw pillows; both small and large. At the center was a floor table with floor pillows over a nicely fashioned carpet. The hearth was also decorated with handmade island trinkets between each candle above a fireplace that helped with heating and lighting. Another bathroom entrance off to the side beneath the spiral staircase. Further back was a kitchen with stainless appliances, a granite and marble island bar, and a fridge with a clear glass door. A wooden kitchen table and enough chairs to sit 8 or more, the island could sit 4 on handcrafted wooden stools. The slide glass door nearby gave way to the rear of the raised deck with a view of the forest. Between the living space and the kitchen hung a floating wall made of small beach shells hanging from the kitchen.
What stood out to him was the lack of personal effects. No pictures or anything that could be tied to other members of the Whirlpool Group or the group itself. A few art decorations and paintings hung on the walls. A metal art installation above the hearth depicted a map of the Elemental Nations with Hidden Whirlpool prominently featured. The installation appeared to be crafted out of broken glass on acid drip metal that gave it a faded look, somewhat like an old worn map. And that was exactly what it looked like.
Kei turned to lock the door behind them, removing his sandals just as Sakaeru had done. "Nice crib. You're quite the interior designer." He commented.
Sakaeru just shrugged. "As long as I'm not paying for it, I am. Gato's failing attempts to win me over. He thinks me to be very shallow if he believes his wallet can win me over."
"No judgement here, love. Anyone would take advantage." Kei responded coolly. "Back to what we were discussing…"
Sakaeru nodded, halfway to the kitchen when Kei moved to catch up to her. He knew exactly what she was thinking and was in agreement. "Have you been into the town?" Sakaeru inquired as she took two drinking glasses from the bar.
She filled the lower bottom of both glasses from decanter. "This is a honey bourbon, produced by one of the local bar proprietor's. Very good, not all that expensive either." Sakaeru said softly as she used chilled tongs to drop two ice cubes into each glass from a nearby ice bucket. "Better when chilled. It's strong but smooth and flavorful."
Gato purchased a few cases of the stuff to give away not too long ago. That only meant he would come around for more. Only instead of cases, he'd likely demand the recipe and secret ingredients of the liquor's make. And then most likely force the man to manufacture alcohol for him.
Gato was very predictable in that way, anytime he found something he liked. He figured these simple residents trying to carve out a living for themselves or their families should feel gratitude for his liking their things enough to want to steal it from them. And he acted like it.
He'd already stolen ownership of a 4-star restaurant because he liked its fanciful layout and exotic meals that were cost friendly. Similar places charged 4 or 5 times as much as the owner had. It was the most popular restaurant in Wave, with a second Wave location being prepared to be opened. But now, now, Gato owned it. The former owner was made to work as his personal chef. 90 percent of the island citizens were priced out of eating at the restaurant after that, leaving the place near empty on a daily basis as few could afford to5t56.
Before that he stole a nationally recognized family farming business from under the 5th generation of the family that ran and employed about 65 Wave residents as the largest farm on the island. They were 1 of 3 farms as the island had limited farming land and the other two operated in share cropping for the village.
This stolen farming business was known for growing some of the largest, longest lasting, and freshest produce for a quarter of the Elemental Nations; especially in Wave. The family refused them, so Gato had them murdered. And with no one left with knowledge of the family's farming secrets, the place was now used to store and manufacture opium and not the kind for cooking with, nightshade, and other exotic plants to create poisons and illicit drugs.
"They may give the assignments, but perhaps they're trusting us to take care of business our own way." Kei suggested before taking a sip from his glass. He found himself wincing slightly from the heat of the liquor, but he was satisfied to find it cooled on the way down.
The honeyed bourbon was very good, of a great quality. The taste wasn't overly strong either. Before drinking the rest he held up his glass, clinking it against Sakaeru's glass. He then threw back the remainder of the aged alcohol. Swallowing down the rest in one quick go. He was acquired to the taste right after the first sip. Kei then looked to Sakaeru as the assassin kunoichi drank down her own glassed liquor in one go.
"It no good to micromanage others It's basically nitpicking and nothing comes out of that. Anyway, no, not through the main town, I traveled as far as the edge of town. And that was when I stopped to get a bite to eat and a beer before coming to see you." He answered. "I did sight a few homeless and drunks, a beggar child or two that seemed like orphans whom I have a little ryo to. There was nothing out of the ordinary. Why...did I miss something?" Kei inquired when Sakaeru hadn't immediately responded.
He prided himself on being detail oriented and noticing the little things, but having only been at the edge of town there wasn't anything worth mentioning. He had attracted a lot of eyes though.
"No, Kei. It's fine." Sakaeru released a quiet sigh. "It just means tomorrow we'll have to take a proper trip into town. The evening nears and it's time for dinner, so let me cook a meal for us. Tomorrow, I also want you to meet someone that plays a part in my assignment. I can brief you in the morning. For now…" She trailed off with a whisper.
"And..?" Kei asked, but received no reply. "Sakaeru, please. For now……what?" He questioned again. As he plead with her he stepped around the bar to her side of the island bar, stepping closer to the now quiet woman while being aware to give her space. He worried she might brush him off again and though he'd accept it if she did, it wasn't a great experience.
Sakaeru raised her head and Kei was taken aback by the beautiful look of vulnerability on her cute, mature face. She looked at him with soft, dough eyes that reflected in the evening candle light. She looked breathtaking, otherworldly even; in the pause of the moment but also deeply wounded. "Just hold me, Kei. And kiss me already."
Wordlessly, Kei took the older kunoichi by her delicate yet deadly hand, and pulled her closer to him. She let him. And he wrapped his arms around her, holding her in his warmth, and pressing her tightly against him. Her body lined up against his as he kissed her gently, taking her lips between his own. Sakaeru melted into him and his kiss, both able taste the honeyed liquor on one another's breath and lips.
"Kei…" Sakaeru moaned with a gentle whisper as their kiss ended and he squeezed her lovingly against him. She didn't give words to it, but she needed him right now, needed this moment. Wanting to just feel protected and taken care of for once. She wrapped her arms around his body in return and closed her eyes, soaking in the moment.
The two stood there, in the kitchen, for what seemed like forever. Quietly sharing moments of kisses and cuddling between holding each other. Sakaeru's heart pounded in her chest every time she was close to this young man. She didn't understand why and it frightened her. Why did he want her? A tainted, retched older woman with baggage.
Those thoughts of hers was the reason why. Though they were sweet on each other. She repeatedly retreated out of a misguided fear of loss that only fueled her indecision to officially be his and him, hers.
"I'll wait as long as I have to, love. I'm not going anywhere." Kei said, his voice deep with the passion he felt for her. Lovingly, he softly kissed the top of her head.
Sakaeru, shedding a few quiet tears simply half laughed and half sobbed at his words, her body lightly quivering against the younger man. "You're a stubborn man. And a silly little boy. Waiting for me." She joked. "Always so sure of yourself."
Kei hummed, nodding his head against hers as his chin lightly rested against the top of her head. Squeezing her against him again. He luxuriated in her beauty and warmth as the woman leaned further into him; her voluptuous breasts pressed against his broad chest.
"Perhaps, love. Perhaps. You've never been wrong before." He trailed quietly, knowing that she was hurting but currently, not really caring why. He just knew she needed comforting and healing time. She smelled something he could only describe as divine, as his nose filled with the exotic and seductive scent coming from her. Sakaeru was so soft to hold.
He wanted more of her, certainly. And for a long while now. Still, he was satisfied just being here like this with her after being told she needed him. A side of her that only he had the privilege of seeing and experiencing.
The beautiful kunoichi no longer sounded as wounded as when Kei first found her. She now sounded a little refreshed, as if she'd gotten her second wind, and was only focused on the now.
"So, how about that dinner?" Kei inquired, hungry for more than just the woman in his arms.
"Mhn. Of course, whatever you want." Sakaeru giggled quietly. "Can we just…stay like this awhile longer, please?"
"Whatever I want, huh?" Sakaeru laughed bashfully at Kei's response. "Sure, awhile longer it is, love." Kei said, knowing what the woman was up to when she used phrases like, 'whatever you want'. Which usually meant she got her way.
Sakaeru revealed a ghost of a smile that Kei wouldn't be able to see. She closed her eyes, humming softly.
Kei and Sakaeru fell into a comfortable and companionable silence, neither one feeling further need to talk at this moment.
•
Expect next chapter to be a running start for this marathon, things happen quickly from there. Next chapter will wrap up events of this chapter, a small time skip will priced, and that'll lead into the interesting stuff.
If you enjoyed or hated it. Please, please leave a review. It's greatly appreciated! The next Grey Label will be up in the next day or so.
Til next time, happy holidays and be blessed. As we continue on…