/ "Dialogue." /
/ 'Internal Thoughts.' /
/ "Flashback Dialogue." /
I am on AO3 with this story under the same title, but it is not updated yet. I am reading through the chapters, fixing any cringe or mistakes.
"I have to show you something!"
Not even a moment had passed through the barrier before he had been approached. She came to him, smelling him, sensing him, practically instantly. However, her presence was quite a sight. Her form was battered, exhausted, and her attire soaked with a combination of water, dirt, and, even more alarming, black burn marks that intensified what had happened.
There had been no proper greeting, no welcome, none of the usual courtesies a host might offer a guest or even a passing traveler.
To an outsider, the abruptness of it all might have been overwhelming, even unsettling. A sudden spectacle without time to properly adjust to the surroundings.
Of course, he had not cared in the slightest.
Sasuke stood on the grassy bank, his dojutsu watching her like a hawk. Nothing would pull his attention away.
Before him stretched a small, tranquil lake nestled just behind the shrine.
A simple wooden dock extended out over the water, its planks creaking under the weight of the girl standing at its edge.
She was the heiress to this sacred place.
And she had been waiting for him.
A young creature. A young girl. A young kitsune. A nine-tailed princess. Not the Kyuubi. Not yet.
That title still belonged to her mother.
From what he could observe, her chakra was dangerously low. Yet, she did not seem to feel the effects just yet. Her determination, especially after his sudden arrival, may have jolted her into pushing forward.
It seemed he had arrived at the perfect time.
There was no better motivation than when all the pressure was on you at once.
Out of nowhere, his eyes slightly-widened as a memory invaded his mind, tugging at something deep within him.
It happened!
She lifted her chin!
Her fingers moved! Swift! Accurate! Precise!
Into a motion he never thought he would see from another person.
Let alone in this world!
Then, with confidence, she took a deep breath—and exhaled like she had never exhaled before!
"Katon: Gōkakyū no Jutsu!"
The lake's surface rippled as a massive sphere of fire erupted from her lips. It was perfectly shaped, larger than anyone, even herself, had expected. It roared forward, soaring over the water before colliding with the trees on the opposite shore, igniting them instantly. Smoke rose into the air as the flames spread, forcing those who witnessed it to rush in and contain the destruction.
Like her mother's power, these flames crackled and burned with a solid shade of blue instead of red-orange.
Around them had been spectators. Other Youkai. Attendants. Guards. They quickly swarmed the damaged area, using water magic to suppress the flames before they could spread too far.
When the heat had died down, Sasuke stood motionless, his eyes soft, his stare still fixed on the fox.
A sudden breeze rolled by, whispering—whispering something important, whispering… one of the deepest, complex memories he has.
"Why did I think you would be like Itachi?"
"I could teach you everyday for a week, it would not help."
He looked over his shoulder, and wondered if the wind had been his father speaking to him beyond the grave.
But no man stood there.
Just him.
Over ten years had come and gone since he had shown his father their clan's signature jutsu, yet the memory and sight of it still tied an immense knot in his stomach. That fear, that true anxious fear of being a disappointment still remained and likely would for the rest of his life. Many would argue failure was a necessary part of success, but for Sasuke, being in his brother's shadow, failure had never felt like a luxury he could afford.
Even long after his father's death, the thought of never earning Uchiha Fugaku's approval left him feeling as though he were still trapped in the past.
Now, as a man, he no longer needed that approval.
But the boy he once was still ached for it.
Though... it would be wrong to forget how he did obtain it. At least, one time.
"That's my boy."
"You've done well. Work hard, and you're bound to soar high and bring honor to the crest on your back."
Just as gut-wrenching as it had been to fear his frown, it had been the complete opposite when he saw his smile.
Sasuke had become older, stronger, and wiser. Better than ever. No longer chained to the quest for vengeance or sacrificing himself for power.
There had never been an Uchiha more powerful at his age. An expert swordsman, an unstoppable force. He could create the moon, shatter worlds, and subdue bijuu with a single glance. A true wielder of all five chakra natures, his mastery was unmatched. His Kekkei Genkai was not just inherited. It was instinct. The Sharingan, the Mangekyō, an extension of his very being. But he had surpassed even that. The colossal power of the Rinnegan and the divine strength of the Six Paths coursed through him, exposed for the world to witness at his discretion.
No one could deny it. History had already carved his name in stone as one of the most powerful shinobi to have ever lived.
And he was still young, with limitless potential ahead of him.
Anyone who harbored even a shred of doubt would be ungrateful, unaware, naive. Foolish, even.
And what of Uchiha Sasuke now?
He was still a man who held unwavering faith in his power, his ambition, and his goals, no matter how distant they seemed. As long as there was a way, and there was always a way, he would take it. He would fight for it. He would pour his blood, his sweat, and his very being into achieving it. His entire life had been built on the belief that he could rely only on himself to reach his goals. Even if it meant throwing his life away, as long as victory was within his grasp, he would seize it.
Yet, now, and perhaps forever, there had never been another moment in his life than when he stood on that dock and felt as confident, as self-assured, and held as much pride in himself than when his father told him those words.
"That's my boy."
There had been no telling how long he had stood there in his reminiscence. Both good and bad memories and feelings had swirled together in his mind and in his heart.
Eventually, a small shadow below brushed those buried emotions back into void.
Sasuke looked down, his black eyes distant, his face soft.
"Was that how it was supposed to be!? I'm not sure if I did it right..."
When Kunou spoke, he could hear it and feel it. Nervousness and excitement. Quiet desperation.
And when his eyes met her golden ones, it was like a candle had been lit inside him. She that look, a similar look, a familiar look.
One that needed to be acknowledged, needed to be heard, needed to be… approved.
Those feelings reached him just as deeply as those memories from long ago, and he knew he had to say something.
The Kitsune felt his hand suddenly press gently against the top of her head.
He ruffled her hair, back and forth, a peaceful gesture, a warm one, one that made her comforted and assured.
"... That's... my boy..."
.
..
...
After a long, annoyed pause, Kunou deadpanned.
"HUH!? BOY!? I'M NOT A BOY! I'M A PRINCESS!"
Never before had a young girl's sudden anger startled him so much.
Sasuke quickly corrected himself, "I meant to say, yes. That was it. Even... better, than what I knew you could do, truly. You've done well. Work hard, and you're bound to soar high and bring honor to your... shrine."
That had been much better. So much so that when the kitsune heard it, her eyes lit up, and her cheeks flushed red with a sudden wave of unexpected appreciation, a flutter of butterflies stirring in her stomach. She quickly bowed, both in gratitude for his words and in the hope that he would not notice any more of her reaction.
When her eyes opened, she caught the curious reflection of light shining through a small opening in his sword's sheath.
She stared at it, feeling an irresistible pull.
"Can I... can you... I want to know how to use a sword..."
That was not unexpected. Swords had a mythical, symbolic presence in the eyes of many. It was not just their appearance but the weight of history behind them. Every culture, regardless of its past, held reverence for the blade. Even now, when one could argue that mastering devastating magic was a more practical path, the sword remained a powerful and enduring weapon.
Recently, Cao Cao had broken his blade. However, that did not mean it could not be reforged. After all, the Khaos Brigade had no shortage of weapon smiths.
The Uchiha unsheathed his Sword of Kusanagi and smirked playfully.
"Go right ahead. See if you're even strong enough to hold it."
Kunou was taken aback. "I'm not a baby! I can lift plenty of things heavier than me. I could probably carry you!"
She took a steady breath and slowly grasped the hilt of the sword. Swallowing, she cautiously pulled it toward her, lifting the blade with care, her eyes fixed on the tip. Yet, the entire weapon radiated danger. She laid it flat, resting the edge of the blade on one hand while keeping a firm grip on the hilt with the other.
Her brows furrowed, and her eyes narrowed.
"Is there..."
Suddenly, she jolted!
Her body flinched and spasmed into a reflexive recoil.
The Kusanagi dropped from her hands, hitting the ground with a thud.
"EEHHH!"
Scrambling toward Sasuke, she hid behind him, panting. "What... what was that?"
Though, the Uchiha smiled, "There's something sealed inside it. But I didn't expect you to sense it. Did it scare you?"
Kunou swallowed hard, "It spoke to me..." she replied, her voice trembling, "Evil. Vile. And... it spoke to me."
He raised an eyebrow. "Did it now?" His voice was full of irritation, though, not at her, "Dragons feed off fear. They have a tendency to speak when they shouldn't. What did it say?"
She squeezed his leg, and appeared hesitant. But when she saw his reassuring, calm expression, she told him.
"... He said he would eat me."
Oh, my.
How that had soured his mood.
Kunou, with her senjutsu, had the power to read life on a much deeper level. Despite the dragon being sealed, she could hear its voice, its venom, its threats, which Sasuke could not typically hear unless he meditated and broke into the seal himself, as he had done some time ago in order to establish a cooperative relationship.
But that did not mean the Uchiha would tolerate its abominable attitude.
There was no desire to hear anymore. She watched him, with curiosity, as he grabbed the sword, walked toward the edge of the dock, and tossed the blade into the lake.
'Enjoy the water.' he thought bitterly.
When he came back, he saw her smiling at him, but then, the Kitsune suddenly stumbled, her balance losing its footing.
"I'm tired..." she mumbled, rubbing her eyes. "It's not even noon..."
Sasuke had already known. "You're low on chakra," he informed her. "Sometimes, when training, you get carried away and forget how much you have. It's easy to lose yourself in the moment. Trust me, you never want to run out. Your body will freeze, shut down, and you might even die. If you don't have friends to keep you safe, that's the end."
Gaara...
Before she could reply, her body fell forward, but before she hit the ground, he caught her.
The soft drizzle had come, much lighter than the hard rain down in Kuoh.
Sasuke sat comfortably on a thick branch, concealed by the large leaves and foliage. This hard and large tree was no doubt the most massive in the area, perhaps even in the entire city. It reminded him of the colossal forms of nature deep in the Land of Woods or the Forest of Death. Behemoths capable of hiding many shinobi from enemies.
Perfect for an ambush, or, to be ambushed.
Below him, the shrine and the river stretched out beneath. There was life here. Fortunately, they had prepared for the weather. Lanterns flickered despite the dampness, and canopies shielded visitors from the worst of the weather. It bustled with activity, filled with both humans and Youkai, who likely regarded them as mascots putting on a show for tourism.
But he was not here to socialize.
'Lowering the chakra levels dulls the shape of the rain... but my senses are weaker too.'
Why come to Kyoto?
There were many, obvious, reasons to not wish to be in the Underworld with everyone else, or back in Kuoh.
Some were personal, some were part of his mission, some were... concern.
Sasuke clenched his fist, narrowing his eyes, 'Ajuka Beelzebub...'
Never would the Uchiha be so naive as to believe that the Maou did not know something was happening. To bring him up in front of the entire devil society like that? There had to be an explanation. Now, practically every social class of devil would have a face to attach to the name Uchiha Sasuke. He valued his anonymity, despite it waning. To be exposed like that, put on display, brought a simmering anger.
But why?
Where had Sasuke gone wrong? As far as he was aware, there had never been a moment for anyone to doubt him. He had proven his loyalty, had fought beside them, had bled beside them.
Battle of Kuoh Academy, Loki, the Hero Faction. Twice. Then, the Battle of the Underworld. Twice.
There was much to be concerned about regarding Ajuka Beelzebub...
Intelligent. Charismatic. Creative. Powerful.
Insidious. Manipulative. Sociopathic. Destructive.
And...
Loved by all.
Well, those still alive, that is.
To say Sasuke was being paranoid would have been overreaching. Rather, he was just being cautious. Now, he took his time, never revealing himself to the world when he did not have to. That was why coming here had not been a bad idea. No one cared. No devils. No fallen angels. No Khaos Brigade. No one to inquire about him or the little companion he had brought with him.
Ophis.
Before he came, he wondered if he should leave her alone at Akeno's Shrine. But it felt wrong. Then, the idea came to just bring her with him, and that also, felt wrong.
He glanced over his shoulder, where she sat, staring down, her feet dangling off the edge.
Infinite. Chaos. Nothingness.
Though she embodied those words, he had only ever felt the nothingness of her invisible presence. Even now, despite her being right next to him, it felt as if she was not even there. She rarely spoke, never complained unless it was too loud, never needed food or rest. When she slept, it had only been to pass the time.
One issue, however, was that she often ran-off at the slightest intrigue in something.
That would be his doom someday.
Sasuke looked at Ophis, "That's why you and I get along." he said lowly, "We both understand being alone is our advantage. Gives us clarity."
"Silence," she replied in her tonelessly detached voice, "My silence..."
'Exactly.' he thought, 'More people can do wonders with silence.'
When the rain poured heavier, his Rinnegan flared. He sensed something approaching but could not pinpoint it until he observed more closely.
Quickly scaling the tree was a large presence, both in chakra and senjutsu, enough to warrant the feeling of a Bijuu tracking him down.
Lady Yasaka appeared before him and bowed. "My, what a horrible host I have been. It is never a good sign when our most esteemed guest can only feel welcome by being at the top of a tree."
Sasuke smirked, "I'm quite enjoying myself up here."
She tilted her head. "You mean, were enjoying yourselves." Her eyes shifted toward Ophis. "And this... I have never had the pleasure of meeting..." A smirk dawned on her face. "Is this your daughter?"
He raised an eyebrow, knowing full well the Youkai recognized the dark dragon energy within her.
"... I have no daughter."
Yasaka gave him a wink. "You mean to say, she's your niece."
There was a moment of confusion, but he quickly realized she was simply giving him an explanation.
Obviously, he had no niece, let alone a Dragon-God for one.
And she knew that.
"Yes," he replied. "My... niece."
By now, most of the visitors were preparing to depart. The rain had only intensified, and they had seen most of what the area had to offer.
There were pictures to take home, souvenirs, and memories to be saved.
It was a grand shrine in every sense. The one in Kuoh did not compare, but that was not because Akeno lacked the desire to expand it. It was because her mother had been cut off from her clan and had never received the support or proper means to establish the same amenities many other shrines enjoyed.
Yasaka yawned, stretching her arms before slipping one through his and holding onto him.
Sasuke, silent as ever, simply held the umbrella.
"I have to admit," she said with a smile, "When I saw a man carrying my daughter to her bedroom, for a moment, I thought I had fast-forwarded in time and today was her wedding." She shrugged. "It was quite the troubling sight, but then I noticed it was you, and I was delighted."
He gave her a stern look. "I handed her over to one of your guards. I would not have the indecency to wander into your home uninvited." Then, his voice calmed. "I also owe you an apology. I should have requested your permission before showing her any magic related training. If it had been my child, and some stranger came offering power, I would be concerned, to say the least."
Yasaka was taken aback. "Stranger? Is that what you call yourself?" She squeezed his arm, her tone light. "I already told you, you're welcome here. And look at you, revealing that beautiful eye of yours. It brings a shine to this gloomy day." Then, with a curious tilt, she added, "Though, it was supposed to be sunny today. I wonder what changed?"
He changed the subject and asked, "Is she awake?"
"Yes," The woman replied. "And she wants to see you. You're all the craze these days. But I ordered her to rest, or she would not see you at all."
Sasuke frowned. "Did she tell you about my sword? She looked distraught over it. Tell her it is sealed and of no concern. It was my responsibility, and I should have forewarned her about what was in it. Instead, I assumed it would be of no concern. That was foolish of me."
Yasaka studied him slowly, her lips curled into a sly, knowing smirk.
"... What is it?" he asked.
"Oh, nothing." she paused, "... She did not mention a sword."
Oh no.
Oh no, no.
"My own daughter," She mused softly, "... Hiding things from me. I give her the world, and she does not tell me her fears." She squeezed his arm once more. "I suppose I have you to thank for that."
Before he could open his mouth to apologize again, she spoke.
"Kunou is not allowed to be around swords. Not yet, at least. If she wishes to in the future, I will gladly support her. But those weapons are dangerous. I have developed something of an aversion to swords, spears, and imaginary creatures."
The Hero Faction.
Sasuke quickly replied, his voice assuring, "They are either dead, captured, on the run, in exile, or, worse." he said lowly, "They should bring you no fear. Not to you, or to anyone."
She nodded her head back and forth, "That provides some comfort. But what if they do? And I am here in the same situation?"
"I'll come back."
"And then what?"
His expression hardened. "Then there is nothing else to discuss. I will come back, and nothing more will be required on the matter."
Yasaka replied confidently, "Then, I will take your word on it."
Sasuke looked around and noticed that Ophis had left him again and was now on the other side of the courtyard. This time, she was being hounded by a group of young Youkai. More kitsune, eagles, and even a tiger inspected her as if she were an alien. In their world, that was not too far from the truth. They were cautious but not fearful of her. Meanwhile, the Dragon God seemed somewhat intrigued, sniffing back as if she were one of them.
"She seems curious about this place," Yasaka observed before turning her eyes on him. "What about yourself? Or have you only come here to glare at me from the tops of trees?"
He smirked slightly. "It has a good vantage point."
She tilted her head, her tails flicking behind her. "You are quite the elusive man, Sasuke. Always watching, always brooding, always just out of reach. One might think you're playing hard to get."
"I don't play games."
Her fingers brushed against his sleeve, her touch soft, "A shame. I think you would be quite good at them."
Yasaka smiled, "I knew you would return here. After all, you made a promise to us, or rather, to Kunou." Her eyes lit up, "That means more than you realize..."
"I try to keep promises." he replied.
"Tell me, you aren't planning to leave so soon, are you? It would be such a shame. Having you here for a short while would be… sweet." she continued, "There's a festival in a few days. Stay, and you can help train Kunou. Under proper oversight, of course." A soft laugh escaped her lips. "And if that does not entice you, there is always the shrine to explore. Unless, of course, you prefer spending your time in the trees, watching from afar."
All of that enticed him to a degree.
Sasuke allowed a small smirk. "I'm planning to visit Mount Huaguo next week. Until then, if you don't mind my… or rather, our presence, we'll stay." His posture straightened, "I don't lounge. So if there's something that needs doing, let me know. I know a little about shrines... my friend, she… runs one."
"I love you."
That memory no doubt forced its way to the front of his mind.
She rubbed her chin, "A week, you say? Well, I suppose I shall have to make the most of your presence while I have you. As for being useful… well, I do like a man who can handle shrine work. Perhaps I'll put you to the test."
"Show me around." He replied, his voice casual.
Yasaka suddenly leaned in, her lips just shy of his ear. "Gladly," she murmured, her voice soft and sly. "But many of these walks are outdoors, and I'd much rather have your arms free for… other things than just holding an umbrella for me."
She pulled back slightly, her tone suddenly lowering, "So, if you don't mind, would you be so kind as to… turn off your rain?"
Sasuke remained unshaken, though he was mildly surprised at how quickly she had caught on.
Saying nothing, he gave a small nod and handed her the umbrella.
[Bird] [ Rat] [ Ox] [Monkey] [Rat] [ Snake]
'Ukojizai no Jutsu.'
The Rain Tiger at Will Technique.
Suddenly, the rain and clouds, formed from his own chakra reserves, dispersed. It was not a technique meant for battle, but rather a method of detection.
Each droplet acted as an extension of his awareness.
While it could not pinpoint unfamiliar presences, it no doubt alerted him to… unsuspecting figures within its area.
Though he was a guest, the guards remained cautious of him. Not because he was human, but because his chakra was absurdly vast, unsettling in its sheer density. Yet, despite their wary glances, they all held a quiet respect for him.
After all, the last time he was here, he had saved the Lady of the Shrine.
That was not something easily forgotten.
As the leader of the West Youkai Faction, Yasaka resided in the Shamusho. It was no surprise that even her guest quarters were esteemed.
The room provided to him was spacious yet minimalist, adorned with a fine low bed, religious symbols on the walls, calligraphy scrolls, and a carefully placed incense burner and heater.
Ophis was in her own room as well.
Kunou had woken up early as ever. She had been so excited to see him again, to learn more. It was something she wanted to excel in, pushing herself further and further. He seemed like an infinite source of knowledge, power, and admiration, and she was only beginning to tap into that well of significance.
Now, she was determined to reach him before the day even began.
There was hope to catch him asleep, maybe bite him and surprise him awake, which fit her mischievous nature.
Instead, she and her mother were the ones surprised.
Sasuke was already awake.
Not only that, he had already started cleaning before anyone else had.
Every morning, a long list was placed in the center of the courtyard. It contained instructions for a rotating list of necessary maintenance activities for everyone.
Now, his name was on the list. But he had finished as early as he had begun. So, he started doing what he could.
Kunou had appeared before him, eyeing him with confusion, "A guest does not have to do these, usually."
He had replied, "That's not a good mindset to have. Princess or no, you will be someone's guest, sometimes. And if you ever wish to be a guest again, then you will do them the respect."
"... So what should I do?"
Sasuke smiled, "Clean. Then, we can train, later."
These common-hospitality rules had been established long before he was born. As the son of the head of the Uchiha Clan, he was expected to be the most humble, the most respectful, and the most kind, so that everyone could see Uchiha Fugaku could raise children as well as he had raised their entire bloodline.
Later that morning, Yasaka wandered through the shrine, following the faint traces of a growing familiar chakra.
It led her to one of the most sacred places in the estate, the Homotsuden, the treasure hall where the shrine's most revered artifacts were kept.
She found him there, stood in front of an altar, a cloth in hand as he finished wiping the dust from the wooden platform. Every other artifact in the room had been tended to, yet his eyes lingered on only one that had not.
A mirror.
Yasaka stepped closer, her voice smooth and knowing. "That mirror has been here for centuries. They say it reflects more than just an image. It shows glimpses of the heart, things buried deep, things one refuses to acknowledge. Truth. Self-reflection. Clarity."
She watched him for a moment, then a sly smile tugged at her lips. "Perhaps that is why you are staring so intently. Do you see something unexpected? Yourself? Maybe even with... someone else?"
Sasuke remained idle as he looked into it. Contrary to her words, he saw only himself and her.
A slight disappointment.
He recognized that look in her eyes. That playful, sly smirk. He had seen it more and more since coming into this world. There was no harm in it, and he was never offended.
Rather, especially now, it made him feel… something.
Relief? Nostalgia? Regret?
There was a lot to process these days whenever a woman flirted with him.
He placed the cloth on the surface, and rubbed it cleanly.
Yasaka chuckled. "Ah, what a shame. I would have loved to know what you saw."
Eventually, the Uchiha spoke. "I've never seen this relic before. My friend, she is a maiden as well, but I have never come across this one. Some of these others look familiar, though not as ancient. Perhaps hers are even replicas."
She watched him carefully, her playful expression softening. "This friend of yours… you should bring her here. You would not believe how many couples come here as a date. Not to mention, the proposals, and even... weddings."
Sasuke shook his head, but smirked, "I'll be sure to recommend the idea."
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
He looked back at the mirror, and hoped, for a fleeting second, he would see someone who was not there.
'Akeno...'
Yasaka had begun to realize that to understand him, was not to listen to him. No, it was to look at him. Not his face, either. Rather, that look in his multi-colored eyes. That spoke volume, his distance stare, they had a language of there own.
Most people express their panic or happiness in their tone of voice, or perhaps in the look of horror or excitement on their faces.
But those eyes screamed something else. Not horror, not happiness, but a middle ground.
One, like the rain that had been falling outside.
"That warms my heart, seeing you miss her..." she said, her voice gentle yet full of tease. "But I did not take you for one to have separation anxiety. I am sure you will see her again..."
No, that was not it.
Quite the opposite.
When Sasuke corrected her, the mood changed, his voice became lower.
There had been more than one reason to not wish to be in the Underworld with the rest of the Occult Research Club.
More than Ajuka. More than Ophis.
"I wanted to get away from her."
Had she known who he was, what he was about, that admission would not have been so stunning to hear.
A frown had formed on her face. Despite his honesty, her natural reaction to those words had made her somber.
Uchiha Sasuke was a solitary creature. That could not be denied. Even as a child, when socialization and being around others would have done him as much good as any medicine, he had refused. Trusting others had never come easily, not after experiencing betrayal firsthand, and so every personal relationship was kept at a careful distance.
But now, there was someone.
Someone who had spoken the forbidden words.
Words he had always brushed off as nothing more than empty sentiment.
And... he had said them back with full conviction.
'What madness had come over me? To say such a thing? In a time like this?'
He gave a shake of his head.
'Too much. Too much affection. Too much touching. Too much... too much...love.'
There would never be a time when he could be as open as others. That could not happen. It would not be him. That did not mean he could not love or that he would not love, but he would do it in his own way. And more often than not, it would not be the way those who received it had imagined. Distant but present. He was a quiet shinobi. He would not shower others with affection, nor would he proclaim it to the world.
But, he would whisper it to himself, and to those who truly wished to hear it.
He craved being alone as much as a flower craved the sun.
Then, out of nowhere, her face appeared in his vision, and her voice rang in his head.
"Sasuke-kun!"
And now, he wished to see her.
Sasuke ran his hands through his hair, as she often did.
Affection. Love. Relationships.
A clash against his own self, his beloved solitude, his distance, his... lack of relationships.
Neither side will ever win, but they can lose.
Best case scenario, is a compromise, a blend, cooperation.
Yasaka asked sternly, but without judgement, "And what do you feel now?"
The words came without expression.
"I don't see her enough, and when I do, I don't know what to do. Then, when I don't see her, I feel relieved. But not long after, I wish to see her again. Just like now."
"You know," she replied, her voice softer now, "Caring for someone does not mean you must become someone else. There is no single or perfect way to love. It is not measured by how loudly you speak it or how openly you show it. Love is simply felt. People who truly care for you… they will learn the language you speak. Even if, in your case... it is silence and distance."
Sasuke did not respond, but he did not look away either.
He was not sure what to make of her words. Whether to believe them or dismiss them.
But he did feel better.
Night had come as early as expected for this time of year, along with a sudden drop in temperature. Dancing around the shrine, the deep indigo lanterns flickered to life, just as the moon did when it reached the top of the sky. Everyone living on this sacred ground returned to their quarters to avoid the eventual snow that may or may not come to bury them.
At the Shamusho, the scent of a cooked meal, boiling tea, and incense were strong in the air.
They were waiting gracefully for one permanent inhabitant, as well as one guest.
Ophis was still roaming the shrine, immune to the weather.
Yasaka stood in her kitchen, assembling the tea. When she heard footsteps, one light and the other loud, she smiled and turned around.
Then, not even a second later, immediately boiled up, as hot as the tea itself
"What happened to your kosode and hakama!?" she yelled.
Kunou looked down at her miko attire and stuttered, "Uh-"
She scanned over her daughter intensely, "That is the fifth outfit that has been burned to nothing! You are almost naked!"
The young kitsune crossed her arms, "I had to dodge! The fireballs were huge! And there were shuriken's in them!"
Yasaka let out a long, slow sigh, rubbing her temples. "You are the fireball." Her eyes traced up to Sasuke. "And you are the shuriken..."
He stood behind Kunou and replied, "Her reaction had improved all day. I will be surprised if another piece of clothing is incinerated."
Unfortunately, the Kyuubi had no patience for further excuses.
"You two. You reek of ash and burnt hair. Freshen yourselves up. Dinner will be ready, and you will be ready for it."
The table was set with yudofu, steaming tofu simmered in a light broth, and grilled eel glazed with sweet soy sauce. A bowl of kinoko gohan, rice cooked with mushrooms, sat nearby. Lastly, cinnamon-scented slices of yatsuhashi rested on a small plate, a Kyoto specialty that Sasuke later learned was unique to the region. To accompany the meal was Uji Matcha, a rich and ground green-tea, that was also from Kyoto.
Kunou, as expected, fidgeted. She reached for her food without thought.
"Kunou," Yasaka's voice was firm but gentle. "Sit properly. We have a guest."
The young kitsune jolted but straightened, reluctantly adjusting her posture as she picked up her chopsticks. Her mother gave a satisfied nod before glancing at Sasuke. "Normally, we eat alone," she said pouring herself a cup of tea. "It is… different to have someone join us."
Sasuke said nothing, only giving a small nod in acknowledgment. Of course, he was not going to tell them how to act in their own home, even if he saw no need for them to change their behavior because of him.
As he lifted his own cup, his eyes looked down, lost for a moment in the tea.
There was a reflection that could see, but not of his self.
A woman, warm but reserved, setting dishes with care. She looked like him more than anyone else he had ever known. More than his father, more than his brother, more than his ancestors even. Ah, yes. She was beautiful. Her black hair, her dark eyes. Tall, though the last time he had seen her, she had towered over him. But that was only because he had been a child then.
How long had it been since he had last thought of his own mother?
The image passed as quickly as it had come, fading into the steam rising from his cup.
Kunou suddenly spoke, "Sasuke, ar-e you sta-ying for the f-estival tomo-rrow n-ight?"
Before he could even react, he mother let out a sigh. "Kunou, do not speak until you have finished chewing and swallowing."
"Sorry, Mother…"
Sasuke did not respond at first. He continued eating, his expression unreadable.
They blinked, waiting. Then, just as she was about to repeat the question, he gave a single, brief nod.
Still, he said nothing.
Yasaka watched the exchanged and formed a sly smile, "How charming. A man of so few words, yet he still manages to accept an invitation." She let out a soft chuckle. "I wonder, Sasuke… do you enjoy keeping us in suspense, or do you simply believe actions speak louder than words?"
Sasuke look up quietly, then finally spoke. "My mistake. The food is great, but I became lost in thought. I will be here tomorrow, as well. If you will have me."
The Kyuubi nodded, "Of course."
The festival had begun early in the day, lanterns casting warm light over the shrine grounds as laughter and music filled the air. The scent of grilled food and sweet dumplings lingered, mingling with the strong aroma of incense. It drifted from the sacred halls, weaving through the gardens, following the river stream, and reaching even the bridge that visitors crossed to arrive.
How convenient. There was no rain.
Yasaka had told Sasuke that if he truly wanted to reciprocate the hospitality given to him, he would walk beside her for the night. She would introduce him as someone who had greatly helped the shrine.
Thankfully. He did not need to say anything. His presence alone was enough.
Most of the attendees were Youkai, and though they were disguised among the human festivalgoers, they could all feel his chakra. Even in the middle of the lively crowds, whispers followed him, quiet murmurs of surprise and curiosity. Many were shocked that he could carry such immense energy without going mad.
And then, there was the stranger twist. He was human.
He looked around, his eyes drifting through the sea of people until they landed on Kunou.
For the first time that evening, he cracked a smile.
She walked ahead, dragging Ophis by the hand. Around her, a small group of Youkai children clustered together, all of them smaller, younger, and marching with purpose. They moved like a trained unit, their little group resembling a retinue of fighters preparing for battle.
Kunou, of course, led them like a commander.
From what Sasuke could observe, they were whispering, scheming, planning something mischievous. His eyes trailed to where they were looking and landed on another Youkai who appeared displeased, annoyed even. Not hostile, but definitely unamused.
He was not from this shrine, but clearly powerful in his own right. Older, eating something, but wished to venture into the sacred artifact room, and the guards were not letting him in.
Yasaka saw his curiosity and informed, "Leader of the East, Nurarihyon. The reason he looks human is because he enjoys shape shifting. Ever since the attack here, I have tried mending ties with the opposing Kyoto Faction. If we work together, then maybe we could fend off attacks from others. Though I have to admit, it was Serafall Leviathan sama who recommended the idea. She... is an ambitious one."
"Hn," he replied. "There seems to be an issue. He wishes to enter your sacred hall."
She squeezed his arm, a gave a smug look, "And he will be disappointed. He is a known moocher. Never let him in." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Truth be told, he is just jealous that everyone enjoys my festival nights more than his own."
There was something amusing about the rivalry between the two. It seemed petty, yet, despite that, ties appeared to be mending regardless.
Meanwhile, the festival grounds were not without humans. Plenty of elders strolled through, accompanied by grandchildren eager to see the celebrations.
A few younger men wandered as well, particularly the ones bold enough to flirt with Lady Yasaka.
They were relentless in their pursuit.
Yasaka, ever the picture of grace, entertained them with cordial replies and gentle smiles. But she kept her distance, ever the professional.
"Come," she urged gently. "I wish to show you something."
The gardens were vast, organized, and well kept, a sanctuary of nature within the grounds. Cherry blossoms stood in bloom, though they were the winter cherry blossoms and not the ones typically seen in spring. Smaller trees surrounded them, with large vines connecting one another along the big branches and foliage. On the ground, the same stone walkways laid the path forward.
Sasuke followed, her arm still through his, in silence, his eyes taking in the scenery.
"It is beautiful, is it not?" Yasaka mused, slowing her steps as she reached a grand sakura tree. She caught one of its petals between her fingers. "Though… I wonder, between this view and myself, which do you find more breathtaking?"
Another woman who liked to tease.
No matter.
He had experience dealing with this...
"The tree."
Her face pouted. "Ah, how cruel," she sighed. "You wound me, Sasuke-kun. Here I am, personally guiding you through my shrine, and you say I have less value than a tree?"
"The tree is more breathtaking... " he conceded. Then, after a pause, his eyes lowered on her, "... But you are the one standing close enough to steal it."
'Oh, my...' Yasaka did not expect those type of words to come out.
Yasaka did not expect that to come off as subtle as it was sly. She shared the same sentiment, somewhat. These blossoms were one of the most beautiful creations nature could ever offer.
As they crossed the bridge, he stopped and knelt down. He inspected a colorful pod of koi fish, their scales shining beneath the bright moon. They swam in response to him, unafraid, moving with an expectation that he might offer them something. Likely food.
The pond reflected their images, both of them side by side under the same light.
A sudden gentle breeze swept through the trees above, rustling the branches and sending a soft fall of petals drifting descending toward the ground.
"You know," Yasaka mused, "the petals that fall into this pond are said to carry whispered wishes. If one lands upon your shoulder, it means someone is thinking of you."
As if on cue, a stray blossom floated down, settling lightly against the dark fabric of his cloak.
Yasaka gasped dramatically, pressing a hand to her chest. "Oh my… could it be fate?"
He flicked the petal off without a second thought.
Before she could gasp, more petals suddenly followed. Even though he stood in the same place, more landed gracefully on his shoulder.
Not just one. Two. Three. No, four in total.
She covered her mouth in amazement. "Four?" she exclaimed, her energy suddenly rising. "My, having four people think of you at the same time?" She exhaled. "I did not think you would be the type to have more than one, let alone that many. But that is my fault." She winked. "Perhaps I just need to get to know you better to truly understand."
Sasuke stood, brushing the petals off him with a smirk. "You," he paused, flicking the last one away, "... Play too much."
She laughed softly. "The truth is, I do not get to play enough. Running this place. Running this place with that daughter of mine." She glanced toward the pond, her expression softer now. "This is a fun escape for me, and I am glad it is with you."
When they came across the wall, she stopped talking. Stopped chatting. Stopped giggling. She even let go of his arm.
A stone, straightforward wall. It looked out of place, something so solid and man made against all the natural beauty around it. Though, it stood next to a rock. A large one. It was nestled into a grassy hill where animals often roamed freely. This place was almost as much a farm as it was a shrine dedicated to certain gods .And yet, this structure was here for a reason.
He could see it.
Etched into the wall were runes, drawings, and designs. A language he did not know. But what he could read were names. No last names, no titles, just names. And at the core on the right vertical axis was her name.
Yasaka.
'A memorial?'
No, rather, a log, of all names, previous generations of Kyuubi.
Then, his left eye flexed on its own. He saw something. Something within the wall itself. Something his Mangekyo, which he had revealed to compare, could not detect. Without addressing or even passing her a glance, he placed his hand on the invisible barrier, and it went right through. He did not wait. The rest of his body followed.
Yasaka stood, and watched him. She was clearly somewhat surprised, and had followed him inside.
She asked, "Those eyes of yours..." It was more a statement, as she seemed to recognize the power coursing through them.
Sasuke answered, "These eyes I inherited from my parents, and their parents before them. The same way your daughter will have your tails someday.
"That is beautiful," she replied. "What a way to honor them, showing the world their appearance."
When they stepped in, he witnessed an otherworldly sight.
'What is this?' he asked himself, his eyes slightly widening.
It was a cavern of sorts, though not dark. It was lit, all around was this blue light which illuminated the entire area and resembled a very tranquil sight. There were trees, with green leaves glowing, and a river with yellow fish swimming about around them. The space itself was not vast, yet it felt endless, as if it stretched beyond what the eye could perceive.
Fireflies roamed, carrying the burden of keeping everything visible.
Even the air was different, not the same as outside, or even in a normal forest.
There was chakra in it, sage energy, and most prominently, senjutsu.
"In the trees..." Sasuke said, his eyes casting a glance at moving figures, "What could be there? What could be here?"
Yasaka looked at him with a frown, 'You can see... even them?'
Finally, one of the creatures was brave enough to peak through the brush of grass. It was small, a canine-like, having fur and on four legs. It's color was glowing gold, and had curious red eyes that watched them two.
'Spirits?'
A fox like spirit, recognizing it too, was being observed.
He looked at her with a bizarre expression. "What is this place?" he asked, almost fearful. "This place... are these Youkai? Why do they not have... bodies?"
At that point, more of them began to appear. Other small spirits, in the forms of various animals. They wandered the grounds as if they were caretakers and watchers. None of them appeared fearful, though some were cautious when they stared at the unfamiliar presence.
The same fox, the first one, came closer. Bolder than the others who lingered behind it. It appeared before the Uchiha, recognizing him as someone worth inspecting, perhaps due to his chakra levels.
Yasaka covered her mouth in amusement. "Oh dear, she likes you." she laughed, "I did not expect that, truly."
Her voice then became mischievous, "You know, they say fox spirits are drawn to those with strong souls. But I must admit, I am feeling rather jealous."
She leaned in slightly, golden eyes full of mischief. "Should I be worried about competition?"
Sasuke could not even respond. He knelt down, and placed his hand on the spirit, he rubbed its head.
And his mind raced.
That's all it was, a blink, and he snapped back into reality.
They were not illusions.
They were not creatures spawned from power.
They were real.
'That was not a fox! That was a person!'
When he rose to his feet, his eyes trembled, "What..." he paused, "What is this place?"
Yasaka stepped beside him, her voice softer now. "This is the most sacred place in my shrine. No one living comes inside. Not my people. Not my daughter. Even I try to avoid it."
She took a deep breath and explained, "This is more than just a sanctuary. It is a graveyard, a cemetery where the bodies of those who served this shrine were laid to rest. Yet, their spirits do not leave. It is the power of this place, to allow them to roam as they had lived, within these grounds, for as long as there spirits will allow them to."
After a long moment of silence, she continued, her voice quiet, even saddened.
"My mother and father are here. I do not need to see them to know. This place keeps them, and one day, it will keep me too."
Truth be told, Sasuke looked startled. This was a very, very strange place. Never in his life had he come across something like this. A place full of death, yet full of life. Somber, yet full of happiness. It was quite unsettling.
"I shouldn't be here, either..." he whispered, "Why show me this?"
The woman almost laughed. "I truly did not mean to," she said. "I wanted to show you the memorial, a list of all the Kyuubi before me. Everyone gets to see that. Had I known you would be able to see and walk through the most ancient and powerful barrier embedded into this shrine..." She gave him a playful glance. "...I would have just shown you what I look like in my favorite kimono instead."
He could not even joke in response.
"Fox got your tongue?" she suddenly said, seeing his blank stare, "No matter. You do not need to speak. Just walk me through the forest, until the end of night comes. That, will make me happy. After all, how often does a woman ask you to lead her through the afterlife?"
There were many hot springs in the elemental nations, and though he had rarely partook in them, he had now.
Being inside one was as relaxing as it was warm. A perfect combination, as the light snow began to gently come down from the sky.
Now, it was his last night.
Every day had been a practiced routine, as ancient as the shrine itself. Wake up, perform maintenance, train the heiress to the sacred grounds, eat between breaks, entertain tourists, rest, rinse, and repeat.
It was a peaceful life. No wonder they had been so unprepared when Yasaka had been kidnapped.
The sound of movement shot his eyes open, as he expected to be alone.
Though, he knew would be impossible.
Hyoudou Issei had referred to the Kyuubi when he returned back to Kuoh in a very descriptive way.
"Aah! Yasaka-chan has huge oppai! I can't believe I didn't get to suck on them before we left! Ah, what an absolute ~feast~ of a woman!"
Sasuke mentally slapped himself.
Why think of the 'Pawn' in a moment like this? He hated when that happened.
Then, two sounds came, one was her voice.
"Oh my… and here I thought the steam was thick because of the water. I see now it is just you, Sasuke-kun."
Then, the loose drop of clothing.
When he looked up, his eyes were… blocked by the sun.
Two suns, in fact.
Though, he did make out her eyes...
He could not even see her face, with her chest blocking the view. But what he did see, from this angle, confirmed it. Yes, a woman. The lady of the shrine herself, disrobing and entering the water without a second thought. She slipped inside , submerging to her shoulders, then stood again, allowing the water to glide down her body like a wheel rolling downhill.
And then, without a word, she sat right next to him.
"The rules here are the same as where I come from, if I remember correctly. These springs are meant to be separate. One for men. One for women."
Yasaka eased closer, the water rippling around her as she tilted her head with a knowing smile.
"Oh, they are. You are in the women's section, Sasuke-kun."
When he stood up, her hand grabbed his wrist and with sudden force kept him from leaving.
"Leaving so soon? You just got here. How rude of you to walk out while a lady is still enjoying your company. At least let me enjoy the view a little longer."
Never uncomfortable with his own body, but no nudist either, he sat back down and conceded defeat. He had not realized this was the women's section, and mentally scolded himself for not even checking. He had assumed no one would be in the hot springs, given how cold and late it was outside.
"Good. I would have been terribly offended if you ran off after seeing me like this. I might have thought you did not like what you saw. Besides, it is much warmer with company
He shot back, "If you're expecting me to comment back, you'll be disappointed."
"This place," he said, "It reminds me of home. You've done well. I would like to make my home something similar to this."
Yasaka gave a soft sigh, "Disappointed already, and we have only just begun? How tragic."
Sasuke shook his head and smirked, "Still playing your games..."
They enjoyed their company, and though her hand placements were gentle, he quickly had to set a boundary, one that she respected. But, she did not give up entirely. Her head leaned on his shoulder, the glimpse the two would get staring, eye to eye. This all happened, and for him, it reminded him of another person who gave similar sly words, touches, glances, and of course, hints.
"This is a well-run place you have," he said, "It is peaceful. It is nature. A wonderful area to grow up in."
She tilted her head. "You say that like you have experience. Did your family reside on a shrine?"
"A clan," Sasuke answered. "But not from a shrine." He paused and smirked. "Actually, I'm from a different world."
He was unsure why that joke had come to his mind, since it was no joke, but there was no reason to believe she would take it seriously.
Yasaka giggled. "I don't think so," she replied. "You seem like you could have belonged here. Maybe, you still do. I do appreciate your compliments, however. It is not easy... running this place alone". she shrugged, "Thankfully, I have all those who serve this place."
"You're the Kyuubi." he replied sternly, "I expect the best."
"I suppose I will just have to impress you, then. After all, it is not every day the I get evaluated by someone with eyes like yours."
She had hoped he would bring his eyes out once more, since, that was one day she could try and read him. But, he didn't.
When he spoke, he was monotonic, almost like reading a dictionary. There was no passion in his words, but that neutral pitch and tone had been his own way of praise, of admiration. It was the way he wished to speak.
Sasuke replied, "I've seen you with my regular eyes. They've seen what you are, who you are. Everything there is to know. How you care, how you deal with managing this intricate, delicate system. And, most importantly, how you raise your child. I will not deny, it is quite informative to see what proper child raising looks like. My parents taught me well, but they are gone."
Yasaka coughed, almost choking on her words. "No need, no need. I do my best, and I do not believe I am extraordinary." She frowned. "But it does bring me joy knowing that you are learning about it from me, and it pains me to know you no longer have your parents."
He waved his hand. "It's been a long time. I had them, I lost them, that is life. Luckily, I knew them long enough. Long enough to know they cared. Long enough to know what they were about... good and bad."
"There's never a good time to lose your parents." she said with a sigh, "I suppose, leaving an impression on you is perhaps the best thing, though."
"You've certainly done that yourself."
She looked at him skeptically, "What do you mean?"
"I said too much." he replied, "I'll take my silence, now."
Yasaka was taken aback, "You said too much? Not enough, if you ask me. Never enough from you."
The Uchiha looked down at the water and recalled something Kunou had said to him.
"You never told me your mother said you can't use swords. No more of that for you."
"What?" she had complained. "Come on! That isn't fair!"
"Life's not fair," he replied. "And you should listen to your mother."
"I did," she replied. "And look what happened. Those men took her. From me. From our shrine. I could do nothing but hold onto you..."
Sasuke had crossed his arms. "You have fighters here. You have alliances. You have..." He stopped then, almost saying the missing word from their family. Yet, she was not as young as she appeared. She knew what he meant, and what he had almost said.
Kunou was almost in tears. "I have no father. It's just us two." She looked at him, eyes wide. "What would you do then, if it had been your mother?"
That question had shaken him to the core. So much so, he had rethought almost everything when it came to parenting, listening, childhood obedience, and power.
"Get the sword." he replied sternly. "And throw it back in the lake when we're done."
The Uchiha had made a promise then as well. That he would not mention any of this to Yasaka, as it would likely upset her. This was a matriarchal run shrine, and she was used to everyone doing as she commanded, and had every right to make decisions for everyone, especially her own daughter. But Sasuke was in a bind, since he was not the type to go around parents and their kids, or in anyone's business, really. But alas, he was there.
And he told her.
"I would ask," he paused, "that you do not be upset with her. I enabled it. I could have talked her down. But... I didn't."
Yasaka listened, and he waited for her stern response.
"I find it sweet you two are close, despite it being at my expense. But next time, Sasuke-kun... do not make me ask about something you already knew I deserved to be told. I would rather be part of your secrets than the last to hear them."
He smiled. "So, you won't tell her? Good."
Her body sank deeper into the water beside him. "I'll keep your two's little mischief... for now," she replied with amusement. "Though, I do feel… replaced. Just a little."
"Replaced?" He raised an eyebrow. "There's only one Kyuubi out there in this world. More than enough if you ask me."
Yasaka tilted her head. "Replaced is the wrong word, you're right," she replied suddenly. "It's more like... sharing. A strange feeling. A new feeling. A jealous feeling. I've never had to share my daughter before. It's always been me, me, and me. And now, I have someone to... think about when Kunou looks up at me."
She suddenly rose from the water and appeared before him, her upper body exposed to the air in its magnificent might, though he did not admire it as many would have.
Her eyes met his, both soft, "Though It feels like I might be sharing more than just her..."
For a moment, they just stared at each other, both trying to read through their gazes. Though, for him, it was not as difficult. She loved her life and only wanted the best for her shrine, for her family, and for the rest of the world. It was a peaceful existence, one where problems could only arise from foreign interference. Yet, when she looked into him, she could not breach as deeply as he could.
Yasaka asked, "Those eyes... they can see chakra. They can see barriers. They can... change the weather, if I had to guess." she then paused, as if hesitant, when normally, she would always be sure of herself.
She grabbed his hand, and placed it above her breasts, toward her upper chest, where her heart was.
"What else can they see?"
Sasuke replied truthfully, "Pain." he began, "Doubt." he added, "Desire." he finished.
She cuffed his cheek, and kissed him.
There was pain. From her past. Past experiences. Past lovers. Past betrayals. Past sadness.
There was doubt. For her future. The certainty. Doubt about herself. For her world.
There was desire. For her future. Desire for an independent daughter. Desire for a shrine still standing. Desire... for him.
They went at it for a long while. So much so, their skin began to prune as the snow piled on, heavier and heavier. When they started, the moon was in one place, and when they finished, it was in another.
But when she felt a certain part of his body rose against her leg, her eyes jolted awake. And she was snapped out of her temporary blissful stasis.
"We should stop."
Sasuke did not disagree, and though it was anticlimactic, it made sense to him.
There was a good reason too.
Yasaka placed her hands on his shoulders and spoke from the heart, her true heart.
"I need someone. I've always needed someone. And not just that, I want someone. For myself, and more importantly... for my daughter." She paused, looking away. "But... that someone needs to need us as well. To want us. To be with... us. Someone who will not leave in the morning and never come back. As that has already happened. Kunou has friends, masters who will train her to make her stronger. Instead, a hole in our hearts needs to be filled. That person cannot leave. It will break us. They cannot have dreams or ambitions. Their life has to be with us. We have to be their dreams, and their ambitions."
Uchiha Sasuke had dreams and ambitions.
And they, were far, far away from here.
When his response came, it had been instantaneous, "I am not that man. And I would not lie to you and say I was."
Yasaka returned a sad smile, rubbing his face, "I know. But for tonight, I just need someone who will keep me company in this water, until I need to rest."
They both leaned in once more, knowing, that he would be that desired man for tonight.
They stood where they had first entered, on the final step of the stony stairway. Below would lead out to the bridge that crossed back into the city, where he was expecting to meet a certain nekomata.
Though he had come here to escape, to distance himself from affection, from relationships, from the mission he was on. Now, he had only become more entangled in its web.
Yet he did not appear as discontent as he had when he first arrived. There was more clarity, more… satisfaction.
Yasaka stood before him with a smile, though one she wished could have been wider. Her hands reached out, adjusting and straightening the black collar of his cloak. She felt grateful for everything—for him showing up, training her daughter, helping around the shrine, and being her escort while enduring all the introductions during the festival.
"Please, give our regards to Sun Wukong-sama. He is greatly beloved among us Youkai. And it would mean a lot to me if he knew we were thinking of him."
Sasuke gave a nod. "I will." He then looked around. "Is…" he paused, "Is she mad at me? For leaving?"
There was someone noticeably missing from his departure. Someone he had not expected to care about missing it.
The Youkai raised an eyebrow and smirked, "Oh? Is that what you are worried about? I did not take you for the type to be concerned over a farewell."
Sasuke looked away. "I'm not."
She stepped a little closer, "I am sure she will not miss a chance to see you." Her eyes lingered on him for just a bit longer, "Just as I have not."
He smirked at that, but did not reply.
When a breeze rolled by, the Kyuubi said, "I want you to have this…"
The Uchiha looked down, took the object and widened his eyes, "I cannot take this…" he said. "This is sacred. To you, to this place, and to those who come to visit it."
It was the mirror. The one he had seen in the hall on his second day here. The one said to reflect truth, clarity, and self-reflection.
Yasaka waved a hand dismissively, "You can," she assured him. "And you will. Consider it a token of appreciation. Not for saving my daughter, but for the shrine." She shrugged. "Besides, that one broke, remember? I will have to obtain another. So take it to the other shrine. They deserve to see these artifacts too, regardless of where we are from."
Sasuke smiled, knowing it was not broke, and how happy it would make a certain someone.
"I will get it to where it needs to go." he replied, "I will... I mean, she will..." he paused, "We appreciate it."
From across the court yard, the peaceful silence that had come was shattered when a high-pitched call and yelping rang through the entire shrine.
Running at an accelerated pace came a fireball of auburn hair at full speed. She darted past shrine attendants, priests, guards, Youkai, and even humans, all of whom turned with widened eyes. She was drenched from head to toe. Her golden hair and clothing were soaked, water dripping with each frantic step. She charged forward, clutching something tightly in her hands, her expression a mix of frustration and urgency.
Kunou appeared before them, panting, her appearance a disaster.
"You…" she nearly collapsed, but his hand caught her before she fell. "You forgot your sword! I went in and got it. I did not want you to leave it behind."
Sasuke looked at her bow, took the blade, and sheathed it back at his side.
When his eyes looked over at her, there was a a concerned urge within him. He wanted to ask, if she had been afraid. Fearful, of the dragon sealed inside his weapon, as she had been when she first touched it. He wanted to know if it threatened her again, and how angry that would make him. But when he saw her run, and now, that confident smile stretched across her face, he had his answer.
"Thank." He said with a smirk, "Take care of your mother. I'm sure her and I will be talking about you, again."
Kunou's hands shot up, her cheeks flushed deep red, ears twitching in alarm. "What!?" she blurted, her voice rising with panic. "Why? Why talk about me without me?"
She stepped forward, eyes wide with disbelief, "Why not just talk to me… about me? What could you possibly say that I cannot hear?" Her head snapped toward her mother, seeking comfort, only to find Yasaka holding in laughter and turning her face away, clearly enjoying the reaction far too much.
Her shoulders dropped, her voice softening. "...Don't tease me..."
Sasuke smiled and turned away, ready to leave, but Kunou's voice caught him once more.
"Does that means you will come back?"
Instead of giving her an answer, one that might disappoint her or give her exactly what she wanted, he chose something else.
[POKE]
Two-fingers.
On her forehead.
Sending her slightly back, leaving her even more surprised and flustered than before.
"I will see you again."
Before the kitsune could process what had happened, or even respond with emotion, the two had descended down the steps.
She watched, alongside her mother, both of them, smiling.
Sasuke strolled down the steps, Ophis next to him, and his sword at his side.
The Dragon-God suddenly looked at him as they paced down, "It wasn't so loud..." she said tonelessly, "I did not need my silence..."
He raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean? It was only loud for you."
But she did not reply.
They would be going to the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit next, where the Great Victorious Fighting Buddha resided.
He had to admit, he was excited to be going somewhere that was not about forming bonds or dealing with memories, nostalgia, and emotions.
To fight, to train, to learn. That was ideal. That was why he was here to begin with.
But he will not deny this was a time to look back on fondly.
And after that?
A flash of light in the corner of his eye caught his attention. He reached into his bag and pulled out the sacred-mirror that had been given to him. The first time he looked into it, all he saw was his own reflection. Nothing more. Honestly, it had been a bit of a disappointment. But now, as he tilted it and pressed it a little tighter in his hand, a faint shade started to appear in his black eye.
Strange.
Only one of his eyes was supposed to be purple. And yet, this one darkened, grew deeper, more visible, even with all the black surrounding it.
Violet.
"Sasuke-kun!"
A smile now came to his face, knowing how nice it would be to see Akeno again.
Yasaka is our second-harem member! In the Light-Novels, the author actually has Both Yasaka/Kunou wanting Issei. Not exactly the route I'm going for...
Despite the anti-climatic end, it was for a reason. Lot's of more story. Things can change...
Let me know what you thought! Honestly, the amount of reviews, despite the bots, is pretty damn high, thanks for that.