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Coming Together

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the content following this statement. All titles, names, and plots are owned by Masashi Kishimoto.

Authors Note: Would it kill you to leave a comment?

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The aftermath was devastating—30% of her clan lay dead, the compound was in disarray, and Hinata's world had been turned upside down. As she took a deep breath, her mind raced with thoughts of the future. She knew rebuilding her clan would be a monumental task, but she was determined to free the branch family members and honor her promises to the other clans. She would lead her people into a better future. It was going to be hard, but with the support of her friends and allies, she believed she could overcome any obstacle. It was his way of the ninja and it was hers as well.

"Lady Hinata, please stop. It is not your place to move the dead," said a branch family member she only knew from passing in the winding halls.

"It is work that needs to be done quickly. I am not wounded like so many others," she responded, dragging another elder's body into the center of the back gardens. They would all be burned by the end of the day, and their ashes would be washed down the river if she had her way.

The courtyard was filled with the wounded and the dying. The stench of blood and death lingered in the air, mingling with the smoke from fires set by the traitors as she now looked at them. The cries of the injured echoed through the compound, a grim reminder of the price they had paid.

Hinata's hands were stained with blood, her own mingling with that of her fallen kin. She moved with purpose, ignoring the pain that wracked her body her chakra network half closed down after fighting with so many of her skilled kin. The dead had to be dealt with swiftly, and she refused to stand idle while others did the grim work.

As she worked, her thoughts drifted to those she had lost. The faces of friends and family haunted her, their voices a constant whisper in her mind. She could not afford to grieve, not yet. There was too much to be done.

Karin approached her, her expression one of concern. "Hinata, you need to rest. You're no good to anyone if you collapse."

Hinata shook her head. "There will be time to rest later. Right now, we need to finish this."

Karin nodded, understanding the fire and grief in Hinata's eyes plain to see. "At least let me help. We can do this together."

The two women worked side by side, their movements efficient and practiced. Karin had moved so many dead and dying over the years working in the labs that she had to remind herself these were once members of her village, not some failed experiment. Hinata couldn't help but feel a sense of grim satisfaction every time she added another body to the count. The elders had paid the price for their betrayal, and she would ensure their memory was washed away as their ashes would be in the river.

By the time the sun set, the back gardens were filled with pyres, the flames reaching towards the sky. The air was thick with the smell of black smoke and ash, a fitting end for those who had sought to destroy her clan. Hinata stood watch as the last of the fires burned, her heart heavy as the bodies of those who had died senselessly due to the status of their birth.

The night was eerily quiet as the fires died down, leaving only smoldering remains. Hinata turned to Karin, her voice soft but firm. "We will rebuild. We will honor those we have lost and ensure this never happens again."

Karin placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We will stand with you, Hinata, as you have stood by us in our time of need. I am sure you will make the Hyuga clan stronger than ever."

Hinata nodded, a flicker of hope igniting within her even as her heart turned to iron thinking of those she had trusted who had turned against her. The path ahead would be difficult, but she was ready to face it. With her friends and allies by her side, she believed they could overcome any obstacle.

With the setting sun and the moon starting its walk over the stars, Hinata took a deep breath, steeling herself for the challenges ahead.

"Thank you for staying with me, but it would be best if you returned to your family," said Hinata as Karin stood at her side, covered in soot and blood from the day's gruesome task.

Karin shook her head, her eyes resolute. "I'm not leaving you alone in this, Hinata. We've come this far together. Besides, I need to make sure you don't pass out from exhaustion before you even start rebuilding."

Hinata managed a faint smile. "Your loyalty means more than I can express. But your family needs you too."

Karin smirked slightly. "Yes, I am sure Tayuya is driving everyone crazy by this time," she said, knowing her sister-wife had been on edge for days now. Karin gave Hinata a quick hug, then stepped back with a formal bow, acknowledging her as the new leader of what was once the largest clan in the village. Despite their losses, the Hyuga's wealth and political power remained untouched.

Hinata's eyes hardened, reflecting both gratitude and the weight of her new responsibilities. "Thank you, Karin. The clan will remember who stood with us."

Karin straightened, her expression neutral. "I know you will rebuild, and the village will stand stronger because of it. And remember, we all have much to protect.", Karin's mind raced back to the children waiting for her back at the clan building.

Hinata nodded, a silent agreement passing between them. "I'll keep that in mind."

As Karin turned to leave, she cast a final glance over her shoulder. "Take care of your clan, Hinata. We're all counting on you."

With a final nod, Karin walked away, her mind already strategizing the next moves in the intricate dance of power and survival. The bonds of loyalty had been tested, but the undercurrents of ambition and caution flowed stronger than ever, ready to navigate the ever-shifting landscape of alliances and rivalries.

Karin knew that soon she would claim the Red Chair, and then things would change for the better. The restoration of the clan council hung on a delicate thread—the Daimyo's agreement and his signature on the papers had yet to happen. She hadn't told Tayuya, but she had covertly asked the princess to travel to the capital to do what she could to persuade him.

However, Karin had noticed something unsettling. Tayuya and the blonde princess had formed a bond, one that seemed to extend beyond the usual friendly alliances. It was a personal, almost intimate connection, and outside the control and influence of the clan. This troubled Karin, a gnawing worry that she couldn't quite shake. She realized she would have to confront Tayuya about it, but she wasn't sure how to approach the subject without causing a rift. The balance of power and loyalty was precarious, and any misstep could have significant consequences.

Karin straightened her back as she walked, her expression contemplative as she considered the complexities of their relationships and the evolving political landscape. Without Naruto to act as a buffer for all of them, the path ahead seemed uncertain, and she knew she needed to proceed with caution. As she made her way towards the clan building, the short distance felt longer than usual, her mind buzzing with thoughts of what needed to be done next. Amidst the weight of responsibility, Karin reminded herself to approach the tasks ahead with care. Love and lust were different yet strong emotions, and she couldn't help but wonder which of them Tayuya was tangled up in.

…

Once Karin was out of sight Hinata turned to her nearest clansmen her voice cut through the night air, firm and commanding, as she issued orders. "Find others and gather up the ash. I want all the traitors' remains cast into the river before sunrise," she commanded, leaving no room for questions. They hurried off to find buckets and shovels.

Approaching her, Neji, always the silent shadow that had not once left her side asked "What about your father's body?"

"He was a terrible father but a good clan head. We will honor him and gather the clan heads when the time is right," Hinata replied, her gaze fixed on the burning fires. Despite their heat, she felt no warmth.

"And Seiji? I have placed his body aside," Neji continued, his cold demeanor unchanged.

Seiji, the man she was meant to marry, had betrayed them, joining the elders in their fight to take control of the clan. She had witnessed Neji's fury firsthand as he broke every bone in Seiji with a brutality she had never seen before. "Reduce his quarters to the bare walls and use it to build a pyre. His ashes will mix with the others," she ordered, but Neji remained motionless, silent.

"What? Did you have other plans?" Hinata asked, turning away from the fire to meet his gaze with a steady look.

"I would toss his body into the Forest of Death and let the beasts and worms have him," Neji replied, his tone laced with simmering rage.

Hinata observed the pain lurking behind Neji's cold eyes, a pain he refused to acknowledge. "It seems fitting. Do as you wish, but I still want all his belongings searched and burned," she added before he turned and walked away to complete his grim task.

Turning her eyes back to the fire, Hinata pondered her next steps. 'What would Naruto do?' she thought, her thoughts drifting to her guiding light, Naruto, whom she would follow to the ends of the world. She knew he would want her to be strong. If only he were here; with one word, he would remove all doubt from her mind.

"My Lady," a clanwoman's voice interrupted her thoughts, drawing Hinata's attention. "Your sister is calling for you."

"What does she want?" Hinata inquired without bothering to turn her head.

"I do not know, My Lady," replied the woman, bowing low. Word had already spread that the young mistress, now clan head, acted with an iron fist.

With a dismissive wave of her hand, Hinata gestured for the woman to lead the way. Following her, Hinata's mind was preoccupied with concerns about the state of her clan and the rebuilding efforts that lay ahead. Her sister, still recovering, had been taken to one of the untouched quarters. The main family rooms had been destroyed in the battle, and they would all have to make do with what was left.

Entering Hanabi's room, Hinata found her sitting on the futon with a cup of black tea, surrounded by a small army of nurses. Kneeling on the tatami mat next to the bed, Hinata waited for Hanabi to speak. Assessing her sister's condition, she noted that Hanabi was mostly healed, thanks to Karin's blood and the efforts of the medics brought by the Hokage.

As seconds turned to minutes, both sisters waited for the other to speak first. Finally, they spoke simultaneously, their voices overlapping in the quiet room. "What is it you… Why did you call…" they began, before trailing off.

"You first," Hinata said, breaking the silence, unwilling to engage in any games of politeness or avoidance.

"I wanted to ask, now that you are clan head, when will you place the Caged Bird seal on me?" Hanabi inquired, her tone betraying a mix of apprehension and resignation.

Hinata was taken aback, her shock evident in her widened eyes. Didn't Hanabi understand that the fight wasn't just about land or money, but about the freedom of the branch family?

"Why would you ask that?" Hinata almost stood up, her initial reaction strong, but she thought better of it, opting to remain seated.

"That cursed seal is never to be used again. The branch family is free of it," she declared firmly.

"That is what you say, but it still lives," Hanabi countered, pointing with her cup at the nearest nurse, indicating that each of them had the Caged Bird seal on display.

Hinata's expression faltered for a moment as she absorbed the gravity of the situation. "I... I know," she admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. "But I will need a seal master to find a way to remove it. You all know that removing the seal as it is will cause instant death," she added, addressing the room as a whole.

Hanabi's words resonated in the room, each syllable carrying the weight of her decision. She looked directly at Hinata, her gaze unwavering.

"I want the seal," Hanabi declared, her voice firm. "You will free me when you free them all."

Hinata's mind raced, grappling with the implications of Hanabi's decision. She understood the deep-rooted desire for equality and liberation within her sister, but the thought of subjecting her to the same burden that had plagued their family for generations filled her with a sense of dread.

"Hanabi, you don't have to do this," Hinata pleaded, her voice filling with desperation. "There must be another way."

"Your bold words and actions must mean something, give me the seal and free me. Show me, show the clan you are good to your word or you are nothing be the new elder." challenged Hanibi.

Hinata's brow furrowed, a mixture of frustration and concern clouding her features. She rose to her feet, her stance conveying a quiet authority.

"You speak of boldness, Hanabi, but do not mistake recklessness for courage," Hinata countered, her voice steady. "The seal is not a tool to be wielded lightly. It is a burden, a curse that has haunted our family for generations."

Hanabi's expression hardened, her voice unyielding. "And yet, it remains a symbol of our oppression, our shame," she retorted. "If you truly seek to lead with compassion and integrity, then prove it. Free me from these shackles, and let the clan see your commitment to our freedom."

The tension in the room was palpable, each sister standing firm in her convictions. Hinata paused, her mind racing as she weighed the consequences of her decision. Finally, with a resolute nod, she made her choice.

"Very well," Hinata said, her voice low but committed. "Bring forth the sealing scroll."

As a servant hurried to retrieve the scroll, Hinata turned to face Hanabi once more. The gravity of the moment hung heavy between them, a silent acknowledgment of the path they were about to embark upon. Her young sister had grown in minutes which took her years to reach. Had she always been this wise or had the death of their father changed her so quickly?

With a heavy heart, Hinata proceeded with the sealing ritual, her gaze unblinking as she laid out the scroll before Hanabi. The weight of responsibility bore down on her, a solemn reminder of the choices she was forced to make as the new clan leader. In days past it would have been an elder doing this with glee in his heart but now she was being forced to imprison her own sister.

"This is normally done on the very young," Hinata remarked, her voice filled with regret. "I hear it is very painful the older you get."

As the scroll rested in Hanabi's lap, Hinata took a moment, allowing the gravity of the situation to sink in. She silently hoped that her sister would reconsider and that they could find another way. But Hanabi remained steadfast, her eyes unwavering as she stared into the distance.

With a steadying breath, Hinata began to form the hand signs, channeling her chakra into the master seal inscribed on the scroll. Energy surged forth, a tangible force that enveloped Hanabi's head. A piercing scream filled the room as the Cage Bird seal seared into her skin, its mark etched upon her with unbearable intensity.

Hinata's heart clenched with every cry, her anguish mirrored in her sister's pain. Why had she made her do this, this was not part of the plan and she hated Hanibi for making her do this in front of so many.

"It is done," Hinata stated firmly, rolling up the scroll with a sense of finality.

"It is customary to test the seal, My Lady," challenged one of the nurses, though Hinata didn't bother to look up to identify who had spoken.

"Very well," Hinata replied, her resolve unwavering as she stood with the scroll tightly clenched in her hand. If this was their plan, then so be it.

"Seal," she commanded, making the necessary hand signs as Hanabi screamed in agony on the futon, writhing as if engulfed in flames while the seal glowed brightly.

Stopping the flow of chakra, Hinata glared at her sister, who lay panting on the floor. "You will be the last to have this seal placed upon you, and you will be the last to have it removed," she declared firmly before turning and leaving the room, her anger palpable to all who witnessed it.

…..

Karin paused in the street to gaze up at the imposing Uzumaki building. Although the tower's windows were still covered with steel panels, the glow of the master seal had vanished. She noticed a large number of people moving around the lower floor, which was unusual since all the shops were closed for the night. The distinctive pink and blond hair on most of them revealed they were from the Haruno and Yamanaka clans, but she couldn't fathom why there were so many at such a late hour.

"You put on a nice show tonight," said Ino, emerging from the shadows behind her, causing Karin to jump and turn to face her. This habit of Ino's, using shadow jutsu to block her chakra sensing, was getting on her nerves.

"What show?" Karin asked, keeping an eye on the tall blonde master of Root as she walked over with a sway to her hips that would put many a man's mind in the gutter.

"Oh, please. As if you didn't intend to show the whole village the power you now control," said Ino, stopping inches from Karin. "Covering the tower in Kyubbi-laced chakra was a bit overdone, don't you think?" Her voice was low, just above a whisper, as if they were girlfriends sharing secrets about a new boy in school.

Karin was taken aback. Yes, the master seal was Kyubbi-powered, but they had never tested it, and she had been as surprised as anyone else when it glowed and radiated the Kyubbi's hateful energy. Not wanting to let Ino in on that little piece of knowledge, she said, "We do what we must to protect the future. Naruto's children will not be touched by the hateful acts of the village, not now, not ever."

Ino's smile was as sharp as a blade, causing Karin to take a step back. "On that, we agree. I will not allow the children to be harmed; I have sworn an oath, as has my clan. What I don't understand is why you filled the building with Haruno. They are merchants, not ninja or even samurai."

"Me? I thought it was you," said Karin, keeping her voice low even as she activated the Mind's Eye of the Kagura. For her, the world was alight with chakra, each person within a mile radiating a bright light that she could see, judge, and inspect at will. She could perceive every member of Root hidden in the shadows and all the village ninjas moving about, watching and waiting for something to happen.

It was the Haruno in the building that caught her inner eye. Each was weak in chakra compared to the many ninjas moving about, but the ones that had come all showed signs of being partially Nukekubi. None were anywhere near as powerful as Sakura, but they would be a force in numbers if the tower were under attack.

"So, what have you learned? I can feel it in your mind even as you keep me out," said Ino, moving close and running her finger along Karin's jaw, a gesture that would have frozen any man. Karin slapped Ino's hand away.

"The village is taut like a bowstring, but without a target. I think it would be best if you told your people to return to their holes and had the Hokage tell ANBU to go about their business. The tower is safe, and I need to find Tayuya," said Karin, turning her back on Ino and walking toward the front doors. Barriers flared up around her, preventing anyone from approaching her.

Seeing Root vanish and Ino step out of the shadows into the lobby to talk to her clansmen and women, sending most of them back to their homes, Karin was surprised but happy her request was granted. As Root left, so did ANBU, each playing their intricate game of watch and be watched, as the balance of power between the two was ever at play.

"Oyakata-sama," said one of the many Haruno. Karin had never spoken with this person, but he was an imposing man with bright pink hair and an open smile. He gave her a low bow before continuing, "We have come to honor the oath of old. Please forgive us for our weakness."

"You are not weak. Do not shame yourself or your clan with such words," replied Karin, striving to maintain the balance between clans. "Tayuya would know more of the old oaths than I, but I thank you for coming. Please, it is time to go home; the night's adventure is over."

"As you order, oyakata-sama," said the man as he bowed. He waved for his clan members to follow him as he walked to the door, his head held high as if they had achieved a great deed by coming.

The ride to the top of the tower was swift, and as she walked into the main room, she was greeted by Tayuya in her own special way. "Wow, you look like shit. What the fuck did you do, roll around in the bloody dirt?"

Tayuya was in her favorite chair, wrapped in her silk robes and curled up into a ball, resembling a silk egg with a bright red head of hair on top. She uncurled herself and came walking over, pushing and pulling at Karin to ensure the blood wasn't hers before stepping back.

"You need a fucking shower. What happened after I left?" she asked, blocking Karin's way even as she told her to go.

"Hinata lost it at the end. She burned all the bodies and dumped the ash in the river. I tried to slow her down, but she was unstoppable. It was like one of Orochimaru's purges after an uprising," Karin explained, knowing that this was one of the many things they shared that no outsider would understand.

"Fuck, that bad, huh? OK, then shower and bed. Temari is overseeing the children again, so you don't have to worry," said Tayuya, now pulling Karin towards the back suite.

Dropping her clothes in a pile and vowing to never wear them again, Karin walked into the large shower, letting the hot water and a whole bottle of shampoo rinse away the pain and smells of the battle. As she scrubbed away at her skin, removing all the spots of dried blood, she spotted the newest scars on her arms, their small circles of pain reminding her of what happened tonight. The pain led to thoughts of Sakura, which then led to Naruto, and ended with the realization that she had to talk to Tayuya about the princess.

The web of power and personal needs was so thick that she wanted to just get them all in the same room and scream at them for putting themselves before the clan. Knowing that would never work, she decided to just do what she could for now. Tayuya was a force she needed on her side, and she would do whatever it took to keep her happy.

With those thoughts in mind, she wrapped a towel around herself and, drying her hair with another, walked out into the bedroom to find Tayuya in bed, reading one of her oversized books about clan history that she seemed to love.

"Feeling better?" asked Tayuya, closing her book and looking at Karin as she walked by. Her eyes never left Karin as she dropped the towel and bent over, searching her nightstand for something to wear to bed. Looking over her shoulder, Karin could see Tayuya looking at her in a way she hadn't noticed before.

"What? Is something on my back?" she asked, thinking she missed a spot of blood or something.

"No, no, that's not it. Sakura did such a good job removing those fucking scars; I just hate seeing those new ones," said Tayuya as Karin straightened up and pulled a nightshirt over her head.

"I know, but she can remove them when she gets back," said Karin, slipping into bed next to Tayuya, who she noticed was wearing a silk top that ended just below her breasts, giving Karin a view of her tight abs and strong arms. She knew in a few more months, she would start to show, but for now, Tayuya looked the part of a trained ninja.

"Like what you see?" said Tayuya, slapping her stomach with a grin. "I still got it. Thank God we have that dojo; I would hate to have to use one of the training grounds."

"Yes," said Karin, lying on her side facing Tayuya. "I need to use the dojo more myself. You look as fit as the first time I saw you." This was as good a time as any, as Tayuya seemed to be in a better mood since the last time they talked.

"So, I've been meaning to ask, what is it between you and that princess? She seems attached to you," said Karin, doing her best to keep it light and non-confrontational.

Tayuya's eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of something unreadable passing over her face. She sighed, her expression softening as she looked at Karin. "It's complicated. She and I… we have a thing going on. It's not something I can easily explain."

Karin felt a surge of emotions—jealousy, curiosity, and an urge to protect her clan's interests. The web of power and personal needs was indeed thick, and she knew she had to tread carefully. Confronting Tayuya directly might push her away, but she needed to understand her loyalties.

"I get it, Tayuya. We all have our pasts. But right now, what matters is where our loyalties lie," said Karin, keeping her tone measured. "Can I count on you when it comes to the clan and our goals?"

Tayuya studied her for a moment, her expression unreadable. "Yeah, you can count on me. But don't expect me to spill everything just because you ask. Some things take time."

Karin nodded, accepting the partial concession. "Fair enough. Just remember, we're in this together, even if we have our secrets."

"Secrets?" laughed Tayuya, rolling to her side to face Karin. "What secrets do you have? You're an open book."

"God, I hope not," said Karin, trying to make light of it.

"No, really, everyone knows you want to take over the village. Even the clans see it and still go along. What secrets could you possibly be hiding?" Tayuya leaned closer, almost hovering over Karin.

"You first," declared Karin, not wanting to say what came to mind.

"Oh, so you want to play that game? Fine. Pussy, I like pussy, okay," said Tayuya, hoping to shock Karin into submission with her sharp words.

"Okay, that's… interesting, considering you used to say you didn't like women all the time," said Karin, not breaking eye contact with her bedmate. That was one thing she learned in the labs—never take your eyes off the experiment, as they had a habit of jumping you when you did.

Tayuya raised an eyebrow, her grin widening. "People change. Situations change. Maybe I've discovered new tastes. What about you, Karin? What's hiding behind that calculating mind of yours?"

Karin smirked slightly, trying to maintain her composure. "Mostly that I think you're not telling me the whole truth.", Karin's mind's eye jutsu let her know when someone was lying, and being this close to Tayuya she could see the half-truth and little lies she was telling.

Tayuya's gaze softened for a moment, she knew of Karin's skill and even used it to her advantage a few times but now that it was turned on her she knew that she had to come clean or Karin would keep chewing at this for days and months until she broke.

Karin felt the tension between them shift, the conversation taking a more serious turn. She knew there was more to uncover, more to understand. The air was thick with unspoken words, and she could sense that this was just the beginning of a deeper conversation. The web of power and personal alliances was intricate, and navigating it required patience and a willingness to wait the other people out.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck," said Tayuya, falling back to look at the ceiling. "Okay, so back in the good old days when we first started to live in the village, I kind of maybe confronted Ino about her relationship with Sakura."

"So? It was clear to everyone back then. What did you say?" asked Karin, worried that Tayuya had pushed a little too hard or insulted Ino in a way that had been affecting her relationship with the new head of Root.

Rolling back to face Karin, Tayuya paused for a moment before coming to some internal conclusion. "I asked her what the big deal was, you know, with Sakura. So she kind of did a mind fuck, sharing with me a time she and Sakura went all out."

Tayuya laughed a little, thinking about how tame that seemed compared to what she and the princess had ended up doing, and Ino, and Temari. God, she was turning into a whore, she thought as all the encounters ran through her head.

Karin raised an eyebrow, sensing there was more to the story. "And?"

"And," Tayuya continued a hint of amusement in her voice, "it was eye-opening, to say the least. Ino has a way of making you see things from her perspective, literally. It changed how I saw both of them and maybe it changed me a bit too. But I didn't stop there. You know me, I never do."

Karin leaned in slightly, intrigued. "So, what happened next?"

Tayuya smirked, her eyes glinting with mischief. "Let's just say I got a lot more involved with Ino and Sakura than I ever planned. And then there was the princess and Temari… things got complicated."

Karin felt a mix of emotions—curiosity, jealousy, and a strange sort of admiration for Tayuya's audacity. "Temari?! How… I mean, when could you?"

"It's all Ino's fault, that damn jutsu she put on me. It was supposed to make me get over Sakura, you know, as a joke, but it backfired, and now I can't stop going after blondes," said Tayuya with a giggle as she saw the look on Karin's face clouded with anger.

"Oh, don't get all bent out of shape. I had Ino remove the Jutsu a long time ago, but you know, I kind of still get the need for a little womanly comfort when Naruto isn't around," added Tayuya, hoping to stop Karin from raging out on Ino and causing even more trouble.

Karin took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions inside her. "So, it's just a side effect? And you're sure Ino removed it completely?"

Tayuya nodded, her expression serious now. "Yes, she did. It's not the jutsu anymore. It's just... well, habits and desires. But it doesn't change my loyalty to the clan or to you."

Karin sighed, running a hand through her hair. "You're a real piece of work, you know that? But I guess that's part of life I guess."

Tayuya smirked, her playful demeanor returning. "You know it. But seriously, Karin, we need to trust each other. This whole thing with the village, the clans, it's bigger than any of us. We have to stay united."

Karin nodded, the tension between them easing slightly. "Yeah, I get it. Just... try to keep things a little less complicated, okay? We have enough to deal with as it is."

Tayuya laughed softly. "No promises, but I'll do my best. So, what is your big secret?"

Laughing, Karin flopped on her back and kicked her legs playfully. "Oh God, it's nothing like yours. I've been spending a lot of time with Temari's son, sneaking him ramen when she isn't around. God, that little boy looks so much like Naruto!"

Tayuya sat up completely, the bed sheets falling away as she put a hand on Karin's shoulder. "You do know Temari hates ramen, right? If she finds out, she's going to kill you."

"I know, I know, but his little face is so cute when he sucks up the noodles," squealed Karin, turning to look at Tayuya.

"You are braver than I thought. Good night, you crazy bitch," said Tayuya, reaching over and turning off the light.

Karin lay there in the darkness, feeling a mix of relief and uncertainty. Tayuya's blunt honesty and unexpected revelations had shifted their dynamic, but it was far from resolved. She knew there were still layers to uncover, both in their relationship and in the intricate web of alliances they were navigating. She had to remember that Tayuya had her own set of goals when dealing with those around them. Ino was understanding but Temari that seems a little off.

As she listened to Tayuya's breathing slow and steady beside her, Karin's thoughts drifted to the challenges of the morning. She would have to confront Ino again and find a way to balance the personal and political complexities that surrounded them. For now, she allowed herself a moment of peace, knowing that tomorrow would bring new battles and decisions.

She wished Naruto would return the future was anything but certain until he returned.

….

The next morning, Karin felt a hand on her back, gently pushing her over. She had gotten so used to Sakura's morning backrubs that her sleeping mind let her be moved until she was face down. Sakura had a way of removing all the stress and knots from her back, and Karin would just let her do as she pleased. Sacrificing a little chakra was the least of her worries.

Feeling the bed shift and now two hands on her back, Karin let out a long, low sigh as the hands worked on her. The skill was the same, and still half asleep, she didn't think about why Sakura had returned without saying anything.

As the soothing pressure continued, Karin's mind began to wake up, and she realized something was different. The touch was familiar but not quite the same. Her eyes fluttered open, and she turned her head slightly to look over her shoulder.

To her surprise, it wasn't Sakura. Tayuya was straddling her, her hands working expertly on Karin's back. "Good morning, sleeping beauty," Tayuya said with a smirk. "I figured you could use a little relaxation after last night."

Karin blinked, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. "Tayuya? What... why are you doing this?"

Tayuya shrugged, her hands not stopping. "I noticed how tense you were, and besides, I picked up a few tricks from Sakura. I thought I'd help out. You seemed to need it."

Karin couldn't help but laugh softly, the tension easing out of her muscles. "Well, you're not wrong. This feels amazing."

Tayuya gently pushed her head back down on the pillow. "You just lay there and enjoy. I'm not done yet." With those words, Karin felt her shirt being pushed up and off over her head as Tayuya's backrub reached a new level.

As Tayuya's skilled hands worked their magic, Karin let herself sink into the sensation, the knots in her muscles melting away under the firm pressure. She closed her eyes, letting out a contented sigh as Tayuya's touch traced along her spine with precision and care.

The room was filled with the quiet rhythm of their breathing, the only sound was the occasional soft hum of approval from Karin as Tayuya worked out the tension in her muscles. It was a moment of unexpected intimacy, a shared connection between two unlikely allies amidst the chaos of their lives.

As the massage continued, Karin found herself drifting into a state of relaxation she hadn't felt in a long time. With each soothing stroke, she felt a sense of gratitude towards Tayuya, for her skillful hands and the unexpected kindness she was showing.

As Tayuya's hands moved lower and lower, Karin felt a mix of surprise and anticipation. She tensed slightly as Tayuya gently pulled her panties off, but any reservations melted away as Tayuya continued her massage, focusing now on the muscles of her rear end and thighs.

The sensation was both unexpected and oddly comforting. Tayuya's touch was firm yet gentle, skillfully working out any lingering tension with precision. Karin let out a soft sigh, her body relaxing further into the bed under Tayuya's ministrations.

It was a moment of vulnerability, but also of trust. Despite the intimacy of the situation, there was no sense of discomfort or unease between them. Instead, there was a quiet understanding. As Tayuya continued to work, Karin allowed herself to fully surrender to the sensation, letting go of any lingering inhibitions. In this moment, there was only the soothing touch of Tayuya's hands and the rhythmic flow of their breath, a shared moment of connection amidst the chaos of their lives.

As Karin closed her eyes and let herself be carried away by the sensation, she felt Tayuya's hair brush against her lower back, followed by a soft kiss on her left hip. Tayuya's lips trailed a path of kisses over her lower back, descending further still as she wiggled her legs between Karin's.

The unexpected intimacy of Tayuya's actions sent a shiver down Karin's spine, her breath catching in her throat. Each kiss was a gentle caress, a tender reminder of the bond they shared, both as sister wives and as friends.

As Tayuya continued to explore, Karin felt herself sinking deeper into a state of relaxation, her body responding instinctively to Tayuya's touch. It was a moment of truth as Karin allowed herself to fully surrender to the sensation.

In the quiet intimacy of the room, with only the soft sounds of their breathing filling the air, Karin felt a sense of peace wash over her. Despite the complexities of their world, at this moment, there was only the simple joy of connection, and as Tayuya's kisses continued to rain down upon her, Karin let herself be carried away by the sensation, allowing the waves of pleasure to wash over her as Tayuya lifted her hip up until she was on her knees, her face pressed into the pillow. Karin's heart raced with anticipation as Tayuya's hands ran up and down her thighs as if testing her reaction before moving on.

Tayuya's touch was electrifying, sending tingles of pleasure coursing through Karin's body. Each caress, each gentle stroke, felt like a revelation, a reminder of the depth of their connection. In this moment, there was no need for words only the raw, unfiltered desire that pulsed between them.

As Tayuya replaced her hands with her lips, holding Karin's hips steadily, a surge of anticipation coursed through Karin's veins. She felt Tayuya's breath hot against her skin, sending shivers of excitement racing down her spine.

With a steady hand, Tayuya guided Karin forward, urging her to surrender to the intoxicating pleasure that awaited. Karin's heart pounded in her chest as she leaned into the touch, her body responding eagerly to Tayuya's silent invitation. As Tayuya's lips trailed lower, Karin felt herself teetering on the edge of bliss, her senses ablaze with desire.

She had no idea Tayuya was so skilled, each touch and caress sending shockwaves of pleasure coursing through her body. Tayuya teased her relentlessly, bringing her to the edge over and over again with expert precision. Her tongue worked wonders as it explored Karin's most intimate place, while her fingers and lips danced in perfect harmony.

The pleasure was overwhelming, a symphony of sensation that built and built until Karin felt herself reaching the peak of ecstasy. With a cry of release, she tumbled over the edge, her body trembling with the force of her climax.

As she lay there, spent and breathless, Tayuya rolled her completely over onto her back, a hungry glint in her eyes. Without a word, she drove in between Karin's legs once more, reigniting the flames of passion with a fervor that left Karin breathless.

At that moment, there was only Tayuya, her skilled hands and insatiable appetite driving Karin to new heights of pleasure. Karin surrendered herself fully to the ecstasy of the moment, knowing that in Tayuya's care, she would find out why Tayuya couldn't fully answer her questions last night.

"Enough, please, please, enough," Karin pleaded, her voice filled with urgency as she pulled on Tayuya's hair, forcing her up into a passionate kiss that she hadn't expected. Their lips met with a fiery intensity, a clash of desire and longing that left them both breathless, the taste of her lips and tongue seemed strange yet familiar.

As they broke apart, their chests heaving with exertion, Karin felt a sense of overwhelming need wash over her. Her mind was spinning from the dozen moments of ecstasy Tayuya had given her, but she couldn't bring herself to let Tayuya go just yet.

Breathing heavily, Karin allowed Tayuya to lay fully on top of her, wrapping her legs around the smaller woman to keep her from moving or leaving. At that moment, there were only the two of them, bound together by an unspoken understanding

Tayuya looked down at Karin, her eyes filled with desire, and without a word, she nestled closer, seeking out Karin's breast. In that moment, she felt a surge of urgency, a primal need to claim what she had desired for so long. With trembling hands, she traced the curve of Karin's breast, her touch tentative yet filled with longing.

As she rubbed her face against the soft flesh she had been watching for years, Tayuya's heart raced with anticipation. She found a nipple and sucked it in with contentment, unwilling to let go of the pleasure it brought her.

"What… What is this all about?" Karin's voice trembled with shock and a hint of pleasure as she spoke, her confusion evident in her words.

Tayuya paused for a moment, her lips still pressed against Karin's breast, before lifting her head to meet Karin's gaze, she saw the confusion in Karin's eyes and uncertainty that made her pause.

"It's about giving in to what you want," Tayuya confessed, her voice soft but determined. "In a world of fire-breathing madmen and creatures made of chakra, I learned to stop holding back. I love Naruto with all my heart, but if I find a chance for a little more pleasure in a world where I could die at any moment, then I'm going to take it."

With those words hanging in the air, Tayuya leaned in once more, capturing Karin's lips in a passionate kiss that spoke volumes of the unspoken desires between them. Then, with a sense of purpose, she returned to the breast she seemed fascinated by, licking it in long strokes before capturing it in her lips.

Karin's breath caught in her throat at Tayuya's bold declaration, her heart racing with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. But as Tayuya's lips trailed a path of fire across her skin, Karin found herself surrendering to the intoxicating pleasure of the moment, knowing that in Tayuya's arms, she was a pawn.

As Tayuya lavished attention on her, Karin surrendered herself to the moment, not out of desire, but out of a sense of necessity. Tayuya's actions were driven by the pain she carried within her, seeking distraction in the fleeting pleasure of the present. Karin, in turn, saw their union as a means of controlling the clan's future, a calculated move in the intricate game of power and politics.

Their experiences under Orochimaru had taught them different lessons. Tayuya had learned to find and take pleasure where and when she could. Karin, however, understood that only those in power had choices in this world. To her, power meant happiness, and she planned on being very happy.

And as they lay there together, tangled in the sheets of their shared bed, Karin couldn't shake the feeling of emptiness that lingered within her. In the midst of their union, she couldn't help but wonder if they were merely pawns in a larger game, destined to fulfill a role dictated by forces beyond their control. Naruto was the true kingmaker—or kingkiller—depending on which side you found yourself on. She only hoped he would return soon to make things right once again.

...

"What do you think, Pa?" asked Ma as they watched Naruto touch sage mode for a moment before losing control once again. She gave him credit for never giving up, but by this point, he should be finding his center, not failing to connect with nature's source.

"I don't know, Ma," Pa replied, turning away. "The boy never gives up. We can't make him leave now, can we?"

Under the waterfall of oil, Naruto sat unmoving, with Jiraiya watching over him. The focus in Naruto's eyes was unquestioning, a testament to his unyielding spirit.

Jiraiya watched Naruto with a mixture of pride and concern. The boy had come a long way, but the road to mastering Sage Mode was steep and unforgiving.

"Alright, Naruto," Jiraiya called out, stepping closer. "You're doing better, but you need to find your center. Remember, Sage Mode isn't about brute force; it's about balance. You need to blend your chakra with the natural energy around you."

Naruto nodded, his face set. "I know, Pervy Sage. It's just… it's hard to keep it steady. One moment I can feel it, and the next it slips away. Every time I touch nature the fox says or does something to pull me away."

Jiraiya smiled, a glimmer of his old, playful self shining through. "That's because you're trying too hard. It's not about control, Naruto; it's about harmony with everything in and outside of you including the fox. Let the energy flow into you, don't force it. Trust yourself and trust the nature around you."

Naruto took a deep breath and closed his eyes, focusing on the sensations around him. The cool oil cascading over his body, the gentle rustling of the leaves, the distant calls of the forest creatures. He tried to feel the natural energy, to become one with it.

"You've got this, Naruto," Jiraiya encouraged. "Remember what Fukasaku said about stillness. Find that inner calm."

Naruto's expression softened, and he concentrated on the stillness within him. Slowly, he felt the natural energy begin to merge with his own chakra. His mind quieted, and for a brief moment, he felt the balance.

"That's it," Jiraiya said softly, not wanting to break Naruto's concentration. "Keep it steady. Feel the flow."

The seconds stretched into minutes, and Naruto's connection with nature deepened. The orange pigmentation around his eyes grew more defined as he held onto Sage Mode longer than he ever had before.

Jiraiya's eyes widened in amazement. "You're doing it, Naruto! Just a little longer!"

But then, the balance wavered, the fox slammed into the bars of his cage roaring and Naruto felt the energy slipping away. He gritted his teeth, trying to hold on, but it was too late. The Sage Mode flickered out, and he stumbled, breathing heavily.

"You were so close," Jiraiya said, placing a reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder. "That was the longest you've held it. You're getting there."

Naruto nodded, determination renewed in his eyes. "I won't give up. I'll get it right next time."

Jiraiya chuckled. "That's the spirit. Take a short break and then we'll try again. Remember, it's all about finding that inner calm."

Naruto nodded and sat down on the rocks, closing his eyes to meditate. As Jiraiya watched him, he couldn't help but feel a swell of pride. The boy was relentless, just like his father. With that kind of determination, there was no doubt in Jiraiya's mind that Naruto would master Sage Mode and become an even greater ninja than he already was if only he could find a way to block out the fox.

….