PASSING TIME
Kakashi and Sachiko sat comfortably in the cosy tea hut, the soft glow of the fire casting gentle shadows on the wooden walls. Sachiko had laid out a small tray of pickled onions, their sharp, tangy scent mingling with the more subtle aroma of tea. Kakashi eyed the snack with a mixture of curiosity and amusement as he poured them each a cup of steaming tea.
"You like pickled onions?" Kakashi asked, a hint of a smile in his voice. Sachiko laughed softly, nodding as she reached for a pickled onion.
"They're my favorite. They have a strong taste, but there's something about them that feels... homey. Would you like to try one?" Kakashi hesitated for a moment before picking one up and popping it into his mouth. The intense flavor hit him immediately, causing him to blink in surprise.
"Wow, those are... potent." Sachiko chuckled at his reaction, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
"I warned you. But they do grow on you." As they continued to enjoy their tea and the pickled onions, Kakashi couldn't help but appreciate the peaceful ambiance of the hut. The warm fire crackled softly, casting a comforting warmth that contrasted with the chill of the evening air outside. Sachiko's presence added to the sense of tranquillity, making the small sanctuary feel even more inviting.
"Do you have any other favourite snacks?" Kakashi asked, leaning back comfortably in his seat. Sachiko smiled, her eyes reflecting the firelight.
"I do. But pickled onions are special to me. They're a bit of a comfort food, making me think of my grandfather." Kakashi nodded thoughtfully, taking a sip of his tea.
"I can understand that. Sometimes it's the small things that make a place feel like home." Sachiko's expression grew thoughtful as she stirred her tea, her gaze drifting to the flickering flames.
"It's nice to have a place like this, isn't it? Somewhere you can just... be yourself and enjoy simple pleasures." Kakashi agreed, his gaze following Sachiko's.
"Definitely. It's rare to find such a peaceful place, especially with everything that's been going on lately." Sachiko nodded, her tone reflective.
"It's important to have moments of calm amidst the chaos. I find solace in the little things—like making tea and spending time with friends." Kakashi's eyes wandered around the room, taking in the cozy décor and the homely feel of the hut.
"You seem to have a talent for creating a warm atmosphere. It's like stepping into a different world when you enter this place." Sachiko's cheeks flushed slightly at the compliment.
"Thank you. I enjoy making it a welcoming space. It's my way of creating a sanctuary, even if just for a little while." Kakashi smiled, his gaze softening as he looked at Sachiko.
"Well, you've certainly succeeded. It's a haven from the outside world." Sachiko's smile widened as she set her cup down on the low table, her eyes meeting Kakashi's.
"I'm glad you think so. It's important to me that this place feels special, not just for me but for your visits, too." Kakashi nodded, his expression sincere.
"That... really means a lot to me." he breathed.
"So, what have you been reading lately?" Kakashi leaned back in his seat, considering the question with a thoughtful expression. Sachiko smiled, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief.
"I've been revisiting an old favourite. Poetry, actually. It's called A Trade of Sorrows." Kakashi's eye crinkled in amusement.
"Really? That sounds profound. For me, I've been reading The Tale of the Utterly Gutsy Shinobi. It's inspiring, in its own way." Sachiko's eyebrows lifted in surprise.
"That's a rare one. I didn't expect that to be your choice." Kakashi nodded, a faint smile on his lips.
"Yes, it is. It speaks to me. The idea of never giving up, no matter the odds... it resonates deeply with me." Sachiko's eyes softened as she listened.
"It's remarkable how stories can impact us in such profound ways. What about you, Kakashi? Do you have a book that shaped you?" Kakashi took a slow sip of his tea, his gaze distant as he pondered her question.
"There's a book I read a long time ago, The Tale of the Last Shinobi. It's not as well-known, but it left a lasting impression on me. It's about perseverance, honour, and the sacrifices we make for those we care about." Sachiko's interest was piqued.
"That sounds fascinating. What was it about the book that stood out to you?" Kakashi's eyes grew distant as he recalled the book's themes.
"It portrayed the struggles of a shinobi who faced insurmountable odds but remained true to his principles. It was a reminder of why we fight, why we endure, and why we must protect what's dear to us." Sachiko nodded, her expression thoughtful.
"It's amazing how stories can mirror our own experiences and challenges. They give us perspective and strength." Kakashi agreed, his gaze meeting Sachiko's with a newfound warmth.
"Exactly. And sometimes, discussing these things with someone else can provide even more insight." Their conversation continued to flow naturally, blending reflections on literature with light-hearted banter. The fire crackled softly in the background, adding a comforting ambiance to their dialogue. As they shared their thoughts on the books that had influenced them, the bond between them grew stronger, grounded in mutual respect and understanding. Sachiko's eyes glimmered with a hint of curiosity.
"Is there a particular passage from The Tale of the Last Shinobi that stands out to you?" Kakashi smiled, his gaze thoughtful.
"There's one line that always resonates with me: 'A true shinobi is not measured by the battles they win, but by the heart they show in their struggle.' It's a reminder that our actions speak louder than our victories." Sachiko smiled warmly, clearly moved by his words.
"That's a beautiful sentiment. It's a reminder that our inner strength and compassion define us, not just our achievements." Sachiko leaned forward, genuinely intrigued.
"I'd love to hear more about it. Maybe we can exchange books for a while? I'd like to see the world through your eyes." Kakashi's smile widened, feeling a rare warmth in her company.
"I'd like that. And maybe I'll find some deeper insights in A Trade of Sorrows as well." Sachiko blinked in surprise, a playful smile tugging at her lips.
"Didn't think you'd like poetry, but I'll be happy to share." Kakashi chuckled softly.
"We'll see. But it's always good to try different things, and find something new each time." They continued to talk, their conversation flowing easily between them, filled with laughter and shared stories. The night grew darker outside, but within the tea hut, there was only light and the comfort of understanding. Sachiko's gaze softened as she spoke.
"It sounds inspiring. My grandfather placed great emphasis on that in his teachings. He said, 'You will only know your power to the extent that you know yourself.'" Kakashi listened intently, captivated by her words. Sachiko picked up another pickled onion from the bowl, a soft longing in her striking eyes.
"He loved to make comparisons to the ocean. An endless source to draw from..." she added, gingerly placing the onion in her mouth without so much as a flinch. Kakashi watched her, noting the way her eyes seemed to shimmer with fondness as she remembered her grandfather. He found himself drawn into her words, her calm demeanour, and the gentle wisdom she carried.
"It's amazing how such teachings can shape us," Kakashi remarked softly.
"They become a part of who we are, guiding us in ways we might not even realize." Sachiko nodded, her eyes meeting his with a shared sense of reflection.
"Exactly. It's like the stories and teachings become a part of our very being, influencing how we view the world and ourselves."As they continued their conversation, the connection between them deepened, strengthened by their shared insights and mutual respect.
"I think he'd be proud of you, Sachiko-san," Kakashi praised softly, and Sachiko smiled, a small, wistful curve of her lips.
"Thank you. I hope so. He always believed in the strength of the individual, in the power of understanding oneself." Kakashi leaned back, his gaze drifting to the flickering flames in the hearth.
"It's a lesson that takes a lifetime to master. Even now, I find myself discovering new things about who I am, what I want." Sachiko tilted her head, curiosity evident in her expression.
"Like what?" He hesitated for a moment, then shrugged lightly.
"For one, I've realized how much I value these moments of peace. The chaos of the village, the constant demands... it's easy to lose yourself in it all. Here, I can just be... myself." Sachiko smiled in understanding.
"That's why I cherish this place. It's a sanctuary, a place where I can reconnect with who I am, without the noise of the world intruding." They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the crackling of the fire and the occasional hoot of an owl outside the only sounds. The warmth of the room seemed to embrace them, offering a reprieve from the complexities of their lives. Then, Sachiko's eyes brightened with a sudden thought.
"You know, Kakashi-san, we've talked a lot about our personal revelations and the importance of these quiet moments. But have you ever thought about what you'd do if you had more time away from your duties? What would you pursue, if you had the chance?" Kakashi looked thoughtful, considering the question.
"That's an interesting idea. I suppose I'd explore more of the world, learn about different cultures and their ways of life. There's so much to see and understand beyond the village. And maybe, I'd dedicate some time to learning new skills, not just for combat, but for personal growth." Sachiko's smile widened.
"That sounds wonderful. There's so much more to life than what we're often caught up in. It's easy to forget that sometimes." Kakashi nodded, his gaze meeting hers with a sense of shared understanding.
"Exactly. And it's these conversations, these moments of clarity, that remind me of what truly matters." As they continued to talk, the connection between them grew stronger, their shared reflections creating a bond of mutual respect and understanding. The night deepened around them, but within the warm glow of the tea hut, they found solace and companionship in each other's presence.
As the stars drew lazily across the night sky and the pickled onions were finished, Sachiko lay down on the floor next to the low table, her form settling comfortably between the scattered pillows. For just a brief moment, Kakashi's eye took in the shape of her— the edged muscles of her shoulders from pulling the bowstring, the defined curve of her chest, her slender waist, and fine hips... a flowing hourglass that caught every light and shadow. Thankful for the mask that hid the rush of warmth to his cheeks, he glanced away.
Deciding on a distraction while she enjoyed her space among the pillows, Kakashi leaned back, his fingers deftly twirling a kunai. The blade spun effortlessly around his finger, catching the soft light from the fire and reflecting it in a dance of shadows on the walls. Sachiko watched with a smile playing on her lips.
"You're always so at ease with those," she remarked, her voice filled with a mix of admiration and curiosity.
"Doesn't it ever make you nervous? Handling something so sharp so casually?" Kakashi chuckled softly, his eye crinkling with amusement.
"I've had a lot of practice. It's almost second nature by now." He paused, catching the kunai and holding it still for a moment before continuing its spin.
"It's kind of like your bow. I bet you could hit your target with your eyes closed." Sachiko laughed, shaking her head.
"Oh, I could definitely shoot it. The problem would be what that arrow hits. I could be jailed for that," she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief. Kakashi chuckled, nodding in agreement.
"Fair point. We don't want any accidental mishaps, especially not from such a skilled archer." Their banter continued, filling the tranquil space with warmth and camaraderie as they enjoyed each other's company and the simple pleasures of the moment. Sachiko sat up from her place amidst the pillows and held out her hand.
"May I?" she asked, her gaze inviting. Kakashi grabbed hold of the kunai's hilt and blinked.
"Sure. Just, don't hurt yourself." He carefully passed the knife to her, and she held it in her hands, studying its weight and sharpness. Her finger glided through the eye of the kunai, and she slowly spun the knife in a circle three times before letting it settle and smiling.
"I understand why you like doing it, but it does seem to need a lot of practice. So I'll leave that to you," she said, taking the grip of the kunai in her palm, her fingers curling around it and her thumb pushing through the eye. Kakashi chuckled.
"Best not to hold it like that. It could break your finger," he advised lightly. Sachiko nodded, a playful glint in her eye.
"Oh, I see. And here I thought I had discovered a new fighting style," she joked, readjusting her grip on the kunai. Kakashi smiled, amused by her jest.
"You might need a bit more training before you start inventing new techniques," he teased back, a hint of laughter in his voice. Sachiko grinned, returning the kunai to Kakashi.
"Fair point. I'll leave the inventing to the professionals," she quipped, settling back among the pillows with a contented sigh.
"Did that happen to you?" she asked, and he laughed.
"No, not to me. But I might have caused a few," he said, and she shared his laugh.
"Well, that would certainly leave a lasting lesson," she agreed, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
As they continued to talk and laugh, the night deepened around them, and the warmth of their shared moments became a comforting cocoon against the chill of the outside world. The gentle crackling of the fire and their easy conversation created a serene atmosphere, a welcome respite from their usual responsibilities.
"Have you ever had a broken bone?" Sachiko continued curiously.
"A few ribs, maybe. But no arms or legs as far as I can recall," Kakashi assured, a faint smile playing on his lips. Sachiko raised an eyebrow, a mixture of surprise and concern crossing her features.
"A few ribs? That sounds painful," she remarked, her tone sympathetic. Kakashi shrugged nonchalantly.
"It comes with the territory of being a shinobi," he replied, though his eyes held a hint of reminiscence.
"But don't worry, I've had my fair share of injuries, but I always manage to bounce back," he added with a reassuring smile. Sachiko nodded, her expression thoughtful.
"I suppose that's the nature of your profession," she mused softly.
"Always facing danger head-on, but emerging stronger for it." Kakashi's smile widened.
"Exactly. And with a little luck and skill, we manage to come out on top," he said, a note of determination in his voice. Sachiko smiled back, a silent acknowledgement of his resilience and bravery.
"So, what are the eyes used for, then?" she asked, glancing at the kunai on the table surface. Kakashi leaned forward, his gaze fixed on the kunai as if analysing its every detail.
"They're mainly for distraction and misdirection," he explained, his tone becoming more focused.
"During combat, if you can catch your opponent's attention for even a split second, it can give you the opening you need to strike," he elaborated, his hand gesturing to emphasize his point. Sachiko nodded, absorbing his words with interest.
"So, it's all about creating opportunities," she summarized, her expression thoughtful.
"Exactly," Kakashi confirmed, a faint glint of admiration in his eye as he looked at her.
"You catch on quickly," he remarked, a hint of approval in his voice. Sachiko smiled, feeling a sense of satisfaction at grasping the concept.
"Thank you for explaining," she said genuinely, a spark of curiosity lighting up her eyes.
"It's fascinating to learn about the intricacies of combat techniques." Kakashi returned her smile, a sense of camaraderie forming between them.
"Any time. I'm always happy to share what I know," he replied warmly.
"It also gives a solid point to attach wires and tags that might otherwise slip off a smooth surface," he added. Sachiko nodded in understanding, her curiosity piqued.
"That makes sense. Efficiency in combat is crucial," she remarked, acknowledging the practicality of Kakashi's explanation.
"Indeed," Kakashi agreed, his tone serious as he glanced at the kunai.
"Every detail matters, especially in life-or-death situations," he added, a hint of gravity in his voice. Sachiko nodded solemnly, a new-found appreciation for the precision and strategy required in battle.
"Thank you for sharing your insights, Kakashi. It's eye-opening," she said sincerely, acknowledging the depth of knowledge he possessed.
"You're welcome. If you ever have any more questions, feel free to ask," Kakashi replied, his tone warm, a sense of camaraderie evident in his words.
"Your hands continue to astound me, even now that I know the reason for it, Lady Fubukinokamiya. Or is it Princess? Goddess, maybe?" Kakashi teased, hoping to lift her spirits. Sachiko laughed lightly at his jest.
"Oh, please, none of those. That's a time long buried and forgotten," she said, her eyes turning towards the fire.
"I'm just me. Exactly as I am. No titles or treasures or fief or mask. But I'm happy that you know that, Kakashi," she added, turning back to him with a genuine smile. And in that moment, Kakashi saw a glimpse of true happiness in Sachiko's eyes. Kakashi glanced around the interior of the hut.
"We've discussed so much, but it feels like I've only been here a little while," he mentioned, and Sachiko paused for the slightest instant as her eyes flickered over the garden window.
"It's between ten and eleven now, and you do need your rest." Kakashi blinked in surprise.
"Really?" he asked, quite surprised that she could tell that from glancing at the dark world outside.
"Another one of my grandfather's teachings. The stars form patterns in the night sky, and they move," she indicated.
"He said it's called sidereal time. Like finding your way with the stars, but for time," she added, and Kakashi nodded.
"Very clever. That's an old method, though. Where did he learn that?" he asked, fascinated.
"During the First War, when he was with the vigilance legion," she said softly.
"And he taught that to you... He certainly was a man that considered every situation and outcome," Kakashi breathed, no longer able to hide the smile that lit up his eye.
"I really wish I could have met him, too," he confessed. As Kakashi prepared to leave Sanctuary, he paused just outside the door.
"By the way, you're still okay with tomorrow's test, right?" he asked, mindful of the secrecy around this haven and her privacy. But she smiled.
"Of course. I'm a little nervous, but really excited to meet your team," she assured, and Kakashi released a relieved breath.
"Okay. As long as you're sure," he confirmed, his voice warm as he stepped out into the night.