Chapter 58: Reminiscence and Secrets
'Inner thoughts'
Writing
°Telepathic Communication°
3rd POV
After that day of practice, her helper had to return to his duties as Kazekage. Thus the remaining brother became her helper from time to time. But like his younger brother he had his job to do. Leaving her alone in the large manor.
This however came as no surprise to her as she had anticipated this. With time to herself, she worked on using her jutsu privately. Holding a short ceramic cup of water she dipped her index in it, slowly infusing her chakra into it, returning to the basics she was taught. As practiced she watched for hours until small ripples began to appear. With a small smile on her lips, she placed the cup down and cheered quietly in her room.
Taking the cup into her hands once more she took it to the bathroom and poured the water out. Taking it back with her into the room she put it down on the coffee table near the entrance and headed to the windows on the opposite side of the room. Looking up at the curtained window she let out a long sigh.
With this being the first floor the windows were naturally higher to prevent any passerby from peeking inside but this setup only reminded her of her prisoner status. Even though no one has said it before, that could be the only word that applied to her current situation.
Looking over the room from where she was she stared as everything was decorated in neutral and plain colors. The only things adding some brilliance to the room were the red curtains embroidered with golden dyed thread that hung from the bed that clashed with the blue of the pillows. Although she had yet to see the main wing of the house she had a feeling that the two brothers weren't the type to indulge in such luxury. Considering their shinobi upbringing and training she knew that someone was hired to do the decoration. Aside from that the few potted plants in the room brought her some comfort as it was the only other living thing aside from her in the room.
'It's only been a few days. I can't believe I'm already feeling lonely.' She thought, letting out a sigh to just fill the room with some sound. Looking at the chest beside her loom that Ryota dropped off, she rummaged through the chest to waste some time.
One afternoon…
Finishing her meal on the main wing of the manor she handed her plate and stared up at the windows of the living room wistfully. 'Oh, what I would do to just sit in a forest and watch it all day. I could just close my eyes and rest under the warm sun hearing the chirping of the sparrows…'
Having believed the two brothers left for their jobs she closed herself off and submerged herself in her memories of when she was a child. Memories of when she ran through the woods carefree. Resting under the spot of sun she sighed contently.
The two brothers on the other hand stood to the side with worry in their eyes. "Do you think this is what Ryota meant by being careful to not leave her alone for too long?" Kankurō asked quietly as Yukino chuckled to herself, increasing his worry slightly.
"I think… a change of scenery might be good." Gaara agreed.
"I knew I should have taken the left a tree ago," Yukino mumbled to herself with a frown now on her face. "The thorns ahead hurt like hell."
"Yeah…" Standing close to him Kankurō nodded. "But where? Does the council even know yet?"
"I'll tell them she's a guest as she may know something about our father that they didn't know."
"Oh, good one. They would freak out if you told them the real reason." Remembering something he gasped startling the woman. "Yukino, do you want to check the greenhouse?"
'Ah, I thought they went to work. Were they worried about me?' Deciding on whether or not to reject their offer so they could spend more time doing what they liked instead.
Before she could even have the chance to refuse their offer Gaara told a small lie. "We don't know much about plants and we would like it if you can give us advice on their care," he added, giving her a reason to accept without worry.
・・・
Taking a small trip to the western part of the sandy village Yukino once again kept her head low. Tying her hair up this time she decreased the unnecessary attention that her hair brought compared to when she arrived. Needless to say, the Kazekage being present still drew attention to himself.
Giving up her hat Yukino gave it to him exposing herself to the harsh sun and without sunscreen, she felt her back and arms begin to heat up. Pointing to an alley she ordered the eldest brother to buy her a scarf. "I'll pay you back." She promised.
With the new item in her possession, she took back her hat and helped wrap the new scarf on Gaara's head like a hood, lowering it enough to hide the distinguishable marking on his forehead.
Content at the decreased number of eyes staying on them for more than necessary she kept arms close to herself with one of them covering and tracing the white spiral of the emblem she wore on her hip. With a small smile, she kept her eyes to the ground, catching the momentary sight of green from the corner of her eye. Hearing the shifting sand she saw the stairs go under her as they went to a more elevated platform.
"We're here." Raising her head she was greeted by the sight of a greenhouse, its glass blurred from the moisture within. Sitting there with anticipation the brothers took note of the change of air she gave off. Looking side to side she started looking up at the tree beside the greenhouse before looking around at the surrounding vegetarian. The very sight reminded both brothers of a kid in a toy store.
"Well," She turned to look back at them, her eyes sparkling with joy, "are we not going to check inside?" Happy with their choice of visit, they failed to take notice of a few visitors at another greenhouse a distance away, one meant to entertain.
A distance away a man in his later years stopped as he was about to enter the indoor garden catching movement in the greenhouse a bit away. But what really caught his attention was the fact that he controlled the sand to help a lady up the stairs. "Is that Kazekage-sama?" He asked his companion in front of him before he could enter and follow his family.
"Nonsense," The other man brushed it off but stopped, seeing as the young man removed the scarf he wore, keeping it around his neck and shoulders. "It is, and who is that woman?"
"Hm… Gōza-san we should bring it up tomorrow what do you say?" Whispering amongst themselves they watched as the trio entered the greenhouse together. Noting the way they treated the mysterious woman with care.
Yukino's POV
Upon entering the greenhouse I was hit by the moisture in the air. Shivering at the change I felt a sensation similar to that of home from just that. Looking over the plants as they had said to get me out of the house I gently lifted the leaves inspecting the soil and roots first. "Good," Going from plant to plant I inspected each one basking myself in their scent. Stopping at one that I helped breed I smiled at their numbers. "You've multiplied so much," I whispered to the small plants, remembering them only as seedlings when I left them. "You guys were troublesome to deal with but finally that pesky disease won't get you. "
Cough.
Flinching, I was reminded of the two brothers who watched me. Sitting up I brushed away the dirt from my hands. "Ahaha…" Moving away from them I went over to the other side of the aisle nearly passing by the crouching figure that hid in its shadows.
Visibly flinching in surprise I saw the figure breathing heavily as they stood up. Holding a stack of books, I noticed the slight trembling in his body. "I'm glad you are happy."
Remembering the two brothers who stood on guard I raised my hand the moment he revealed himself. "Otou-san…" Feeling myself tear up more than I expected I quickly wiped the accumulating tears. "Where have you been? You know… I have been awake for more than a week already."
"I'm sorry. I had hoped to talk to you sooner before you had entered this land. By the time I returned to the inn you were all gone. Then we figured you might get bored sooner or later so I brought you some entertainment." He said holding up the stack of books that were neatly wrapped in a simple red cloth. As if remembering the two brothers he pulled down his mouth covering, forcefully smiling at them. "May we speak alone?"
Obeying his request both brothers left giving me the time to calm down. "You didn't just come to deliver a few books did you?" Wiping the few tears left in my eyes I guessed that he was the one Ryota said would arrive.
"No," Placing the books on my lap he began to explain. Speaking softly so only I could hear, he gave me the instructions he was ordered to say. "In Uzushiogakure the royal noble lineage has a peculiar tradition. To take their place on the throne an Heir must be named." Saying heir he gently poked my chest, or sternum to be precise, reminding me that that was me.
"Do you have to speak like that?" I whispered as his way of speaking reminded me of my biological aunt.
"Yes. It prevents us from forgetting to say anything important." Clearing his throat he got into the messenger role. "Once they are of age they will be sent to the Land of Iron to the hidden Uzumaki shrine clad in white reflecting the purity of their goal. In the cold land, they are to find the stone holding the noble line's seal. A stone that the Heir must hold onto with their life until it is returned to the hands of Uzushiogakure's shrine." Walking over to one of the tables he bent over taking out from under its shadows a bag with rolls of white silk. "You have already completed the part of returning the stone, and branded yourself with the royal seal. However, you were not of age yet and did not complete the other part of that trial therefore you could not fully ascend the throne and claim it. Even though you have acted as a ruler you have yet to be officially pronounced as one by the shrine. If there happened to be someone from the same noble blood as yours still around." He said implying that an affair or two could have occurred with the previous king or queen that may lead to that possible scenario. Thinking of that and the fact that their son was supposed to be either my husband or hers told me that they might have been quite young when the island was attacked. There was no time to select an heir which would explain why I could step up to take it even though I was never meant to from the moment I was conceived as an idea. "They could have a claim to the empty throne and the shrine would have no option but to give them a fair chance. For now, the populace is unaware of this and the shrine has kept this secret as well. Luckily no one of that bloodline has popped up that's why they insist that this trial must be completed as soon as you can as a precaution." Handing the bag I held both gifts on my lap as he continued to explain the rules. "By the next day's sunset, the trial begins. Starting from the snowy mountains in the Land of Iron the Heir must make their way back to Uzushiogakure whilst making sure to be a step ahead of their pursuers. The foxes sent by gracious Inari Mountain. Failure to complete the first trial is death."
Hearing that word I did not fear it as much as I should have. As I had nearly become familiar with it a couple of times before. "I see. So the chase is necessary as part of the rite."
"It is. Many believe you will succeed and have prepared gifts for you while you were asleep." Looking down at the bag he made a small motion with his head telling me to look closer.
Looking down at the bag in my arms I spotted a small spool of golden silk thread inside with a note sticking out of the middle. Sticking a hand inside the bag I pulled it out.
Who would have guessed our summons have such close ties to each other? They rarely approach us for a favor so it must be a good sign. The Kinukami clan gives you our best wishes in your recovery and upcoming trial. If the silk seems different, do not fret. It is only because it is not made from the cocoon of a silkworm but made from the spiderwebs of some of our most special spiders.
"Kinukami…" Looking up at my father I covered my mouth. "I thought that was the codename for a type of silk we were selling."
"Hah… I'm not surprised you haven't run into them yet, you would be surprised how reclusive they are. They live in the southern part of your land in that town near the memorial." He kindly informed me. "Now that I think about it… Kokuei Kuraim attends every meeting on the behalf of those two clans, the Kinukami clan included."
"Two clans?"
"..." Pulling his mask back up I could see his body trembling from laughter. Quite a rare sight for me, I have to say. One I would have appreciated more if the subject wasn't important right now. "I'll make sure you get to meet them formally." Looking away from me I felt embarrassed at having missed such an important detail about those I've sworn to protect.
"Hah…" Removing the things from my lap I placed them on the floor in the driest spot I could see. "Alright. Help me stand up." Looking at him his trembling stopped and he extended a hand. Taking it I was pulled forward and into his arms. Feeling the slight trembling of his body that he tried to suppress I pulled away and let go standing on my own. That trembling of his body in my mind.
Slowly backing away he gave me room. Seeing the distance between us I took a deep breath in and took my first step without any kind of support. Elated I looked over at him and took another… and then another. Each step was slow and taken with time. Although I couldn't see it I felt a broad smile adorn my face with each step I took towards the man who raised me.
But before I could reach him I felt my muscles begin to tire. Instead of falling to my knees as I had done before I held myself up placing my hands on my thighs. Breathing heavily I looked up at him with determination burning in my eyes. "Otou-san… by the time we see each other again," catching my breath I gave a single nod, "I promise… I'LL BE WORTHY of the title I was given!" Running out of breath for the last part of the sentence I wheezed feeling the strain my lungs were going through.
"I see…" Walking over he hugged me, releasing my body from its struggle. Without needing to look I could feel his mouth twist into a smile from under his mask as it rested on top of my head. °You have always been.°
BAM!
Hearing my outburst from outside the two brothers burst in, startling us both. Poking my head from Kamen's arms I caught the look of surprise on both brothers' faces. Knowing that our time was up I was placed back in my chair. Before he could let go I held onto one of his hands feeling the same trembling from before. "Is it the lack of a forest?" I asked, remembering that Suna was located in a land where they could never visit me on their own. 'Dense forest and trees serve as a cover but also as a mode of transportation for the kitsune. I wonder if Sunagakure ever has fog?'
"Yes." He slowly pried my hands off. "As you know my circumstances are… special and so I'm bound to its rules."
"So the next time we see each other will be at home right?" Nodding once I understood. "I see. Then I will be able to complete my promise." Holding on my lap the stuff he had given me I passed on the note that came with it. "Return so you can see me keep my word."
With that, he quietly left the greenhouse bidding a small farewell to the brothers when he passed them. Closing my eyes I could feel his presence disappear as he had returned to a greener place. By the way he had disappeared I could only assume those marbles were used.
Opening my eyes I put my hat on and headed for the exit having had enough of the greenhouse and the homesickness it brought. Feeling the dry air hit me I let out a sigh giving in to the fact that I was going to spend months here until I recovered. 'Might as well get used to it.'
・・・
Heading back to the manor in silence I could feel the unease. "So… what happened?" Kankurō was the first to ask.
"That's private," I responded, holding the silk bag close. "As for this." I pointed to the stack on my lap. "I can show you." Undoing the ribbon holding it closed I opened it picking out the book at the top. "Huh… Icha Icha." Checking the other books I saw Love Among the Camellias in the pile as well. "That's it?" Opening the first book I saw my name written inside along with Jiraiya's. "They're my books! I thought I had lost them forever…" Elated at having my books back I wrapped them back up remembering the last place I had left them. 'The Akatsuki's hideout.' Clearly, it was something I wasn't going to mention or bring up.
"Yours?" Kankurō asked with surprise.
"Yep, I found it entertaining although raunchy, as some may put it, the author put a lot of thought into the scenes." Ending the conversation at that, I knew that it wouldn't look good for the Kazekage to be seen talking about this. Then again the current Hokage had no problems reading the book in public. Though that made me wonder if he still did.
・・・
Upon returning to the manor I split from the brothers and headed back to my room. Locking the door behind me I passed the bed to my loom. Before I did I went to the drawer near the bed, unwrapping the cloth, and placed the books on top of it. Turning around I opened the mostly empty trunk save for a few nightgowns, pajamas, and duplicates of the same outfit I currently wore. 'I wonder when I'll be able to use this.' Taking out two scrolls I sighed and put them back down. 'Those gifts Otou-san mentioned… I wonder if that is why it was labeled to not be opened by them.' Closing the chest I placed my hat on top of it as well as the silk bag. Moving a bit I reached the seat of my loom. Getting on it I began the process of getting it ready for me to weave. Passing the string through each hole one by one I checked the mechanism making sure it was working as it should.
・・・
Finishing setting the last string I hummed contently. It was then that I heard a knock at the door. "Coming!" Putting the remaining silk that I was using back in the bag I slid back into the wheelchair and headed to the door.
Based on the past few days I knew who it was from the way the knocks sounded by the time I opened it. "Kankurō, what do you need?" I smiled, accepting whatever offer he may propose. 'I will be busy soon so why not have some fun? It seems that they put what I did behind them. But why? Because I helped their village, or is it because we're friends?'
"Dinner's ready."
"It's that late already?" Looking back at the window I noticed the lack of sunlight passing through the curtains. Thanking him for the reminder we both headed to the dining room. 'I wonder… who cooks in this house?'
Sitting at a table for four I ended up across from both brothers as usual. "Thanks for the meal," I said as usual and dug in. 'Another beef dish, interesting…' In my thoughts, I wondered about the cuisine, remembering Uzushio's abundance of seafood dishes. Something both new and delicious to me. Not only that but meat from the forest animals was something familiar to me from my childhood. 'Fish… I want to eat some…I will definitely catch some on my way back. Oh, I remember how Ryota was in charge of that… I wonder if he fishes for the wolves?'
"Do you like those books?" Snapping out of my thoughts I knew that question was directed at me.
Chewing and swallowing the food in my mouth I answered intrigued at his curiosity. "If I answer honestly will you answer some of my questions too?" Smiling, I placed my spoon down as I looked at the eldest brother. Surprised, he gave a quick nod not really thinking about why I asked. "Then yes, I find it entertaining. When it comes to physical intimacy there are different forms of it. Not just poses." I stopped him from continuing what he was thinking. "Like Icha Icha Innocence goes into the more sweet part of the process. Love is the main focus, not the lustful desire. The partner and how they feel in that intimate moment is the protagonist's main focus." Having someone to genuinely ask about my interest in the book I let a little bit loose. "But if you're interested in just the lust and the experimental side you should–"
"Excuse me." Gaara cleared his throat. "Isn't this conversation too crude for dinner?"
"Ah…" picking my spoon I felt my face heat up. At the same time, I didn't feel like ending this talk without getting the gossip I wanted. "Kankurō, after we eat come to my room, you still have to answer my questions."
"Sure."
Answering so easily I could tell Gaara was taken aback by that. Considering what we were just talking about I could understand. 'I hope he isn't thinking I'm trying to lure his brother. Then again I did say I learned seduction tips from the hostess bars back at Ichiraku's… and he did get a close-up of what I learned.'
"Kankurō, don't you think that's too… too…" Unable to find the correct word I watched in amusement as he gave up.
"If you're worried we may do something, just come along as our chaperone." I chuckled, finding this form of entertainment fulfilling without realizing that I had picked up this interest from the foxes who found joy in my embarrassment.
"I'll do that." He sighed as his brother found this fun as well.
3rd POV
Deviating from that topic, dinner was spent talking about the newest members Kankurō had to train. Hearing this Yukino felt his struggle and wished to agree on certain points but held her tongue or else it would have revealed her land's current strength. So instead she spoke of her experience training Ryota. "Just give them time and if they still don't understand just choose a different approach."
Putting in her bit, she just listened to avoid saying anything unnecessary, enjoying the conversation. Sitting and eating while talking… It reminded her of the lively dinners she had as a kid with the twins and dinners she had with her two friends when they traveled from place to place on foot. Three years was a long time to be asleep, especially when one was aware of the passing time. Three years to be trapped in someone else's mind sorting through their thoughts. She wanted nothing more than to speak of what she learned but she couldn't. It was a secret she could only share with those she trusted.
・・・
With dinner wrapped up, Yukino invited both brothers to her room so she could begin working on her trial outfit. Entering she headed to the other end of the room taking her seat before the loom. As she did both brothers sat down in the corner of the room where a guest would be allowed to sit. When they did they looked around the room with curiosity noting how clean and devoid of individuality it was. Looking as it did when she first arrived. Even the bed was neatly made like that of an inn. The room was in such a way that if she were to leave the next day her departure would be swift and without them knowing.
Hearing them take their seats Yukino looked at the opposite side of the bed confused as to why they sat at the other end of the room. "Why are you both sitting so far?" Pointing to the bed she urged them to come closer. Finding it as something normal to do.
Drawing them in she made avoidance of her question a bit more difficult. "Staying on the topic of love…" She started once they sat down. "And seeing how I missed the last three years… tell me are any of you in a relationship?" She asked intrigued and excited if the answer was yes.
"..." Going quiet both brothers glanced at each other wondering of the other's response.
That made it clear to each other what the answer was and they simultaneously shook their heads in response.
"Really? Not one of you?" Disappointed, she turned away, rolling some silk into the shuttle. "I expected Gaara to not have but you Kankurō?"
"Me? What would make you arrive at that?" Gaara was taken by surprise at her comment. Though if he were honest with himself he could see why before she even explained.
"Why?" She asked, choosing to answer honestly. "You're the Kazekage. Unless you made the effort I doubt you have much free time to go and meet someone. Unless you're into older men then I doubt you'll find someone." She reminded him of the type of people he usually handled his business with making his older brother chuckle. But that small laugh just turned the attention back to him. "And you!" She pointed at him, startling him momentarily. "I don't know what your current position is but you're the child of the previous Kazekage so it is most likely something important. Even so, you must have some amount of freedom. More than your brother when it comes to talking to others."
"I… I'm busy." He tried to brush it off as if it wasn't important. But to the woman who had lost many, she felt that forming that new connection with someone else was important.
"Don't give me that." Letting out a sigh she continued rolling up the silk into the shuttle. "Listen. I don't mean to push you to marry. I'm sure you get enough of that from your elders but at least take some time to find things to do that aren't tied to some form of work. Like finding someone that makes you happy it doesn't have to be a lover but maybe a good friend."
"Like your two pals?" Crossing his arms Kankurō raised an eyebrow wondering if two people who would take part in a crime with her were the right type of people to befriend.
"Yes, no matter what happens I know they will be there for me to fall back on. After everything we've been through… that kind of bond is to be expected." Passing the shuttle through the threads she caught it when it came out the other side. "Look, Temari just got married. She won't be here often to tell you to not overwork yourselves. I know how important your village is to you but you should draw a line between your responsibilities and your personal life, you know?" Pressing the pedal the strings switched positions, and once that happened she passed the shuttle through it once more.
"We know. She gave us the same talk before she left for Konoha."
"Well, she had good reason to." With a sigh, Yukino reached forward and pulled back the beater, tightening her work. "You three are the children of the Kazekage. I doubt you had much free time. I should know I stayed with you guys for some time. You guys were always doing one thing or another. Studying, practicing your current techniques, taking care of the house and yourselves while your father was working." Remembering the previous Kazekage's stern gaze she sighed in dread. "Except you Gaara you had the most time to do what you wanted." With a shrug, she stopped and turned to look at both brothers once more. "Whether both of you know it or not Temari had the most pressure placed on her as a kid. She was the oldest and the mediator between the two of you. You were really feisty back then." She pointed at Kankurō. "After his passing that pressure must have increased." She referred to their uncle. "Either way, I don't want you guys to feel guilty but do try to find people that you can be yourselves with other than your family." She emphasized. 'Then again. They are the children of a Kazekage. The moment they were born a line was immediately drawn between them and everyone else. They have no control over it but other people will be careful and create that distance…' Thinking that her grip on the shuttle tightened. 'Will it be the same for my child?'
After finishing her small lecture both brothers nodded understanding what she wanted, snapping her attention back to them. Even though they had heard her advice she knew the chance of them following through was low. Their love for their village was as big as the desert it was in. Just as her love for her village was as the glistening sea.
Letting out a sigh she pointed her shuttle at the eldest brother. "Alright with that out of the way, can you buy me some gloves? I want some black ones. Nothing thick or rough. They have to be soft and thin so if one wears them they can forget they were even wearing them."
"Gloves? What would you need them for?" Gaara asked with a hint of surprise by the drastically different direction the conversation had just taken. A move she had done so they wouldn't expect her question she would ask once her request was accepted.
"My nail polish has begun to chip. Not to mention that I will be weaving." Noticing the confused expressions on their faces she extended a hand towards the nearest brother. "Kankurō may I see your hand?"
"Alright."
"Looking at your hand you can feel the calluses from all the tools you've been using to make your puppets. See here?" She pointed. "You can easily tell that you grip something often. If I were to see you in your shinobi attire I would guess that this isn't from wielding a sword or weapon. And since we are on the topic of shinobi attire…" From his palm to his fingertips she gave his fingertips a light tap. "You can see they are rough, showing a similar condition as the inside of your hand." Letting go of his hand she smiled. "As an enemy shinobi in disguise, I would take into account the lack of a handheld weapon, your Suna attire, and your fingerless gloves as a clue that you were a shinobi specializing in puppetry techniques." She explained breaking her thought process down.
"You knew that already there's no way I would be figured out so easily."
"You think that but you're forgetting that covert missions are my specialty. Others have their own ways of understanding their enemy. This was mine. If I wanted to survive, knowing anything about a stranger is crucial." Giving his hand back she crossed her arms hiding her palms. "Knowing how to spot these things makes my job easier when I'm hunting down rogues in hiding or assassinating my target for the Anbu."
"Alright. I understand I'll go buy those gloves for you tomorrow."
"Thanks!" She chirped. "Now since you are completing my request… I meant to ask but I heard of this bar in Suna where people go for one-night stands."
"You found that out even from here?!" Taken by surprise his brother could only stare at Kankurō with an expression that read as disbelief.
"I would like to say I have my sources but I just remember hearing about it the last time I was here. Though I will admit I didn't know what it meant at the time."
Realizing what he had blurted out, Kankurō glanced at his brother who looked at him for an explanation and a single glance at the red-headed woman told him that she waited as well. "It's… yes. I've been there… but it's mostly just a place where young adults go to party secretly!" He tried to clarify.
"Ah… makes sense. A party huh… I don't think I've seen many places like that here… I guess if the elders found out they would complain about how chaotic the youth these days have become." Placing a hand to her throat she aged her voice to be more masculine and critical. 'Though… I think I do remember hearing word of a courtesan house.'
"It seems you know them well." Gaara sighed, reminded of several meetings he's been through in his first year as Kazekage going in circles to just convince them to agree on something.
"Yeah… more than I like to admit. I hope I can avoid them for the next five months. I'm not in the mood to get lectured by them." Dreading the thought she didn't want to think about it anymore. "Anyways. Be honest with me, if you saw me sitting at the bar how many men do you think would approach me?"
"You're definitely an eight." Hearing that her face lit up with a light blush flattered by it. "But you have sharp eyes when you think so maybe someone stupid or brave will approach you." Thinking deeper about it he continued. "Not only that but you give off this almost imposing aura."
"Hah… so no one…only the horny ones…" Dejected, she turned back to her loom. "There's no point going then… if I'm not going to be swept off my feet. I might as well stick to my books." Grumbling, she worked the loom again. 'Seems that there isn't much to entertain me outside this house. I could go to the courtesan house… Form a deal. Hear the secrets they've heard… maybe even learn some tricks…'
"These books, right?" Kankurō asked, picking the first one that caught his attention. "Love Among the Camellias?"
"That one's really good. I first found out about it when a receptionist left it in your lobby." She made a small gesture towards Gaara. "That same book was the one my boyfriend didn't let me read. I wondered why but I could never figure out how to ask that question." With a slight shrug, she passed the shuttle between the threads. He only took the book away from her once it wasn't as if he outright prevented her from reading it. She could have bought it again if she asked Kuzunoha for a favor. For some reason, she chose not to. Maybe because she didn't want to think about the kiss. 'Maybe it was because it was boys' love?' She told herself.
Hearing this the eldest brother looked at the book flipping through it, skimming a part here and there. Somehow not coming across the 18 rated content. Coming to a stop he pointed something out. "Is this where you left off?"
"Hm? What would make you say that?"
"There's this drawing." He pointed to it at the top of the page.
"A drawing? But I would never do that to mark where I left off. I can just remember." Stopping, she looked to see this drawing he saw. When she did she did her eyes widened slightly. Next to three numbers two circles were interlocked with each other reminding her of a pair of two rings. Clutching her chest she felt the gifts she received hanging from it.
"Is everything alright?" Gaara asked, noticing the way she reacted.
"Huh?" Blinking rapidly she gave a simple nod. "Yeah, I was just… I thought I lost my necklace." She lied pulling it out from under her clothes. "I wear it all the time so I got used to it. I sometimes even forget I even have it on." Chuckling, she reached for the book. "Anyways I think I talked your ear off." Not allowing them a chance to speak she let out a small yawn covering her mouth. "I… I want to finish this book before it's time to sleep."
"I see." Getting up, both brothers headed to the door. "Don't sleep too late."
"Alright, I'll keep that in mind." With a small wave goodbye, she watched as the door closed and when it did she quickly got on her chair to go and lock the door. Turning off the lights she got on the bed.
Getting comfortable she reached for the bedside lamp turning it on. Flipping through the book again she found the page with the markers on it. When she did she remembered seeing the page numbers before. Closing her eyes she laid there in silence going through her memories. Remembering that night when she read his letter she remembered the number 143. Opening her eyes she read the first sentence and then the last spoiling herself on where the story was going. Although reading part of the story she didn't feel that it applied to her until a part of the page caught her eye. Near the bottom of the page, a single quote stood on its own separated from any other form of text.
"Though we may be apart, I will always love you."
Letting out a sigh she shook her head slowly. 'That sly weasel he knew I would read this again…' Wondering about the context in which the quote fit she let out a small chuckle and flipped through the book to the forest scene in which she left off last. As the hours passed her eyes absorbed every word that formed the love story of the samurai and shinobi. Reaching the quote she understood the meaning in which it fit.
Having escaped their bindings the shinobi visited the noble samurai that had stolen his heart. Even though he had turned him in he still held love for him but having escaped he could only leave a few words behind before leaving. Leaving the samurai with a heavy heart as they were left behind.
'Aside from the sexual interactions I could see what you're trying to tell me.' Sighing she laid on her back staring at the canopy above her head. "I wonder did you take some inspiration from this ending? Is that why you left me that marble and letter?"
Covering her face she curled up remembering the quiet moments between the two characters. Moments that were just the two of them, moments spent talking and murmuring. 'Oh ho… did you get some advice from it I wonder?' With a smirk, she turned on her stomach and reached for the second volume. 'Is that why you didn't want me to read this series? After all, you had no problem with me reading the raunchier series of the two.' Tapping her lips with the second book she hid her smirk, finding something to tease him with for when her time came.
As nine o'clock arrived she fought through the urge to sleep, invested in the direction the story was going. Turning in the bed every so often to remain awake she eventually got off it and sat on the chaise longue in the room using the floor lamp for light. Ignoring sleep for a book she had officially declared herself a fan of the series even vowing to get the author to sign her copies.
Once midnight came and went she was up to the last and final book. An hour or two later she finished it, upset by how the story ended. 'That made no sense? What the fuck?!' Mumbling obscenities that a sailor would raise their eyebrows at. She was tempted at the idea of throwing the final novel to the floor, something she has never believed she would do to the novel she has declared herself a fan of.
Stopping, she exhaled thinking that her skipping some sleep would have muddled her understanding of the book, mixing a few words here and there. Opening the book to the last chapter a small postcard fell out scaring her sleep-deprived self.
Picking said slip of paper she saw that it was written on both front and back in familiar penmanship, taking almost all available space. Whoever it was had a lot to say just as she did.
By the time I finished the first novel I became invested in the series. The way it is written makes me pity the two characters. Knowing the system even if it is for love the chances of being allowed to go free with the one you love are small. This novel gives me something to think about and makes me wonder how many shinobi that are marked as rogues did it for this reason. For love. So to read the final book I am disappointed. It is clear that the author had an end goal for this story but reading this book I could feel that it wasn't the author writing this.
Surprised by this revelation she flipped the card to see what else they had written.
Looking into it I noticed how there was a change in editors and I discovered a change in upper management in the publishing house when the third book was written. Following the end of the third novel, the author left working for a different publishing house and changed their pen name. It was then that the first novel she published was called "When Camellias Reunite". Calling it fanfiction the author rewrites the final book and does it the way they wanted it to from the beginning providing that end we expected. If I remember, Nikkō Inn Town had a bookstore that sold it.
Reading the small rant in silence she sat in the room in silence for a second before bursting out in laughter. "I know it was such a stupid way to end it. It came out of nowhere. The author clearly had intentions for them to end up together but to have him be killed off-screen? Really?" Saying this to an empty room she covered her eyes going quiet once more. "Idiot. We could have had a book club. I would have loved to hear you speak about it." Chuckling at the idea, the anger she felt a while ago at the book dissolved. With her urge to sleep gone she was wide awake. Placing both book and note on the table she poured herself some water continuing with her training.
The Next Day: Night
Gathered in the living room in celebration of a night off. They sat around the TV in anticipation of the movie that would come up soon. They didn't know what it would be but a movie was always scheduled every weekend night from what she's been told. Waiting for that time they watched the TV as it showed a corny romance series. A series they groaned at with every cliche they saw.
"She has a point though he seems suffocating." Kankurō voiced his thoughts about what the female lead said as he reached for the snacks only to be swatted by Yukino's gloved hand.
"You said it was for the movie." Shaking her head at his attempt, she also agreed with his point. Looking at her right side she glared at Gaara's hand who tried to do the same as his brother's. "But it's true. She needs to follow her dream and he's the only thing stopping her from pursuing them. He seems like the overly clingy type. The other guy is a much better suitor."
"Mhm." Agreeing with her an idea popped into the puppeteer's head. "Hey, quick question, what are your dreams?"
"Hm? Only if you say yours first." She said needing to think about it a bit more.
"Alright." Shifting in his seat he turned his body slightly towards her. "This may seem a bit weird but the Infinite Tsukuyomi helped me remember what it was. You know with everything going on I got a bit… distracted." Listening carefully, the puppeteer's younger brother and friend nodded wanting him to continue. "I want to create the most incredible puppet ever. I want it to be so that people generations from now will still be using it to protect the village."
"I'm sure you'll be able to do it. You're a pretty creative guy. Whatever you strive to make will definitely be the work of a lifetime. That's how puppetry is after all. An art and skill that changes and improves with time and its user." The very reason why she gave up on learning that technique past the basics. Giving him an encouraging pat she turned to ask Gaara.
Unable to ask the man she was going to ask, he looked at her expectantly as his brother asked her: "Now your turn. What's your dream?"
"Ah… well, it may seem a bit silly but talking about your childhood dream made me remember something." Letting out a quiet sigh she stretched out her legs from under her. "I would like to create my own garden, preferably a garden of roses." Choosing that flower specifically because she's been called that before. "For a pretty flower, there are many variants I could make…" Realizing this the gears started to turn in her mind as ideas started to form. "It makes me wonder if I could create a new color. A blue rose for example…those don't exist. Yet." Chuckling excitedly at the impossible idea she caught herself and let out a small sigh. "You see, when I was a child, my guardian made me grow a bean sprout and made me care for it." She explained remembering that time clearly. It was a good and believable reason to use but in reality, her subconscious interest in genetics, breeding, and manipulation of plants stemmed from the moment she found out she was an artificially made human being. It wasn't something they knew or she wanted them to know so lying about her true reason was for the best. "When it grew big enough it was relocated to her garden. It was at that same moment that I was then given ownership of that garden. But it wasn't the same since there was no need to look after it."
"Well if it was a private garden it must've had gardeners looking after it."
"Yeah…" She looked away not wanting to tell them that it was self-regulated. Another secret she would have to keep from them.
"Was there anything that further developed your interest?" Gaara asked, drawing my attention.
"Well, you see I've always done some sort of work that involved plants whether it was breeding, cloning, or just changing them to what was needed. I realized at one point that I enjoyed the planning that went into what I wanted." She spoke truthfully of her love for her work. Something she took interest in on her own that no one has ever ordered her or taught her to do. "I enjoyed watching my work flourish because of me." Her eyes drifted down as she looked at her gloved hands. She could still feel the soil in her hands. She had the memories but not the physical traces. Compared to others in her field her hands told a different story. They were soft enough to make one believe she was never a shinobi or even held a tool. Her training prevented her from developing any markings of her work or life. This fact was always present in her mind. But even so, there were moments in her teen years where she would expose the scar on her side by wearing crop tops to allow herself access to her sword but by then the scar had been less noticeable as her body had grown a lot. A scar was natural for a shinobi so not many chose to ask or even blinked when they saw it. Nevertheless, the memory of the pain and feelings remain fresh in her mind as everything was.
Pulling herself away from those memories she let out a sigh. The older she got the easier it seemed to her to fall into these moments. She just hoped that by the time she grew old she would enjoy the present more than the past. "Sadly none of those plants were mine… once I achieved what was needed they were taken from me." Inhaling slowly she raised her head. "Once I return home I'll have the time to do it." She smiled knowing that without the burden of switching between identities and lands she would have the time to be herself. Have more time to enjoy the things she wanted to do. That thought made her blink a few times as if she heard herself think it before. At some point, if she repeats it enough it is bound to come true. Right? She hoped it was.
"Oh, how could I let it slip my mind." She perked up. "There is one work of mine that wasn't taken. One that I have the pleasure of seeing every day from where I work."
"What is it?"
"It's a tree that I have grafted on multiple branches of other trees." She explained to Kankurō. "The blooms every spring are delightful to watch as are the autumn leaves. Since it's a combination of various trees it contains an assortment of different colored blooms. In spring it's very beautiful. You can stand under it and watch as various petals fall around you. It is truly a splendid sight to behold. It has to be one of my greatest works." She sighed out of joy remembering the awe and smiles of the people who stopped to look at it.
"I would love to see it personally one day. We should visit your land to see the blossoms." Gaara grabbed a snack the moment she was distracted passing it to his brother behind her back.
Making an X with her arms she shook her head. "There's a strict policy on who can enter so I doubt you'll be able to but who knows maybe you'll be able to in the future when things calm down. That is if the policy changes."
"But aren't you in charge?" He asked, remembering certain comments in her conversations with her friends, guessing her position to be one of authority.
"Yes, but I have to consider your position and how that may make everyone feel."
"It seems that even you have to deal with such diplomatic problems." Kankurō sighed knowing the feeling as the Kazekage's bodyguard.
Letting out a small chuckle she nodded. "It's my job to make sure they're safe. That was my aunt's wish." She said referring to her relative in the past tense on purpose. "Speaking of her," she removed a glove. "I have to summon someone so if I could get one of you to help…"
Giving instructions she received a blank piece of paper and a brush. Taking off her gloves she drew a summoning circle on the piece of paper and nicked her thumb dropping her blood on the sheet. Grabbing Kankurō's hand she smeared the blood on his palm and he followed the necessary hand seals as per her instructions.
"Summoning Jutsu!" Slamming his hand beside the sheet of paper he wore a smile on his face as this was his first experience summoning a summon.
Poof!
In a puff of smoke, the seated trio saw the silhouette of a person short in stature sitting on the coffee table before them. Hearing faintly the sound of a bell chiming as the silhouette moved.
"Mwa ha ha ha… Finally, I've been summoned!" He yelled saying the first words he ever said to the now red-haired woman before him. With a gust of wind the smoke dispersed. Legs crossed he sat on top of the table with a smug smile, sporting a new appearance.
"Kitaro-kun!" Yukino squealed happily upon seeing who was summoned. "I missed you! What's with the new outfit?" She asked as his outfit was replaced for something less childish and more refined. Even so, his appearance remained the same as that of a young boy around the age of twelve. 'Are those Hanfu clothes?'
Smiling happily he hopped off the table placing his hands on his hips. "I'm glad you noticed after all I need to wear something befitting my role as a scholar." Hearing Yukino gasp just made his smile broader. Going down on one knee he held her hand to impress her friends beside her. "Following my new role, I promise to learn many things for you so I may be of service."
Holding his hand she smiled. "And I'll make sure to come to you when I need your help. Now are you going to keep me in suspense or are you going to show me what's in the suitcase?" Gesturing to the box he arrived seated on he quickly grabbed it and popped it open. Without being able to give some context for what she believed was inside it was too late as the fox had already let go of the latch revealing the contents inside.
Flashed with lingerie of the most risque type all she could do was press her lips together as she felt the looks of the two brother's on her. One of which quickly looked away as his face grew several shades of red.
"Oh, the Kazekage seems to be taken by surprise!" Kitaro pointed out increasing the man's embarrassment. "I wonder what Kuzunoha-sama chose for you?" Taking a peek he groaned in disappointment. "Lingerie?"
"I asked for something else to wear seeing as to how my body has changed in the past three years," Yukino explained so they wouldn't misunderstand. Lifting one with a finger she let out a sigh. "I was hoping for something more comfortable, you know something that I could wear every day. Instead of the old bloomers that someone packed for me."
"Bloomers? You haven't worn those things since you were tiny. Oh, but if you want panties I'll go buy you some!" Tossing the suitcase behind himself and onto the coffee table, he made his way to the door. But before he could get too far a hand pulled him back.
Pushing off the snacks from her lap and onto the Kazekage she pulled Kitaro to her. "You seem to be forgetting that your transformation is that of a kid in his tweens." Reminding the fox Yukino pulled him down tapping his nose affectionately. "You'll get kicked out before even trying to enter."
"Ah. True there are some real pervs out there." Grabbing one of her hands he nuzzled against it. "If you ever worry about someone. We can always do a full background check. The cats always love to chat."
Laughing awkwardly at the idea of them conducting a full-on background investigation on someone, she couldn't shake the idea of him, as a small fox, talking to other animals. Making her wonder just how many animals approached her for said gossip. Noticing the Kazekage's lack of response she stretched forward, 'He's quite innocent. I didn't expect that.' She thought to herself, sparing him from further embarrassment as she closed the suitcase. As she did however something caught her eye under all the undergarments. Brushing away those at the top she pulled out an old book. "Tale of the Utterly Gutsy Shinobi…" Reading the title out loud she remembered hearing about it somewhere. 'Someone mentioned it in passing…'
"Oh!" Getting up Kitaro squeezed himself between Yukino and Kankurō sitting between them. "It took a long time for us to find a good copy! Kuzunoha-hime ordered some of us to search for Jiraiya-sama's first work since you're a fan." Taking the book he opened it to the end showing the picture of the shinobi when he was much younger. "You wouldn't believe how few copies were published and sold. Luckily we found a copy in Sora-Ku! The cats gave us a tip for the times you helped out Nekobaa."
"Really? Thank you." Ruffling his red hair she placed a small kiss on top of his head, in the spot where his hair faded to white like his tail.
Giggling at the affection Kitaro laid down stretching himself over her lap and Kankurō's. "I want you to ask for more favors so you can sing for us again."
Feeling a bit bashful she placed a hand on her cheek. "I would rather be a doll for Kuzunoha than stand on a stage." As she said that the puppeteer got off the sofa leaving quietly to make the popcorn for the movie.
"Hehehe… it's fine we'll try not to make you go on stage. We'll keep teasing Ryota though."
"I know. I guessed that he formed a contract with you guys."
"Uh-huh. Kuzunoha-hime saw him as worthy. But don't worry we won't tease him more than you." Laying on his back he stared at her even though his eyes were almost always closed. Feeling his gaze and not his words she looked at the screen once more and the series that was running in the background. Reminding herself that he was there she slowly patted his stomach like one would do to a baby, waiting for what he wanted to say. After a minute of silence had passed he reached up, passing his hand through her long red bangs. °Hey, Gaara-san… you've been hearing us talk but aren't you a bit curious?° Looking at the quiet man sitting beside them holding the snacks, Kitaro's eyes opened piercing him.
When he didn't say anything Kitaro looked back up at the blue-eyed woman and lightly tugged on her bangs asking her to look down. "Kuzunoha-hime said this a few times but you're an odd one for your clan…" Almost as if whispering a secret he pondered trying to remember the exact things he's been told by the vixen. "You're calm and reserved like your aunt. She said she was expecting you to be boisterous and wild like the kids she used to encounter. Oh, she said they were a lot like Naruto. Hmm… the wild part is accurate though. You were a free-roaming kid. The boisterous bit, not so much. You were very quiet… like a mouse." Hearing something new about the clan she had grown to protect, she listened eagerly. "Do you want to hear more?" He asked knowing she did.
Without uttering a word she gave a single nod. After being gone for so long most of the tradition had been washed away by the waves. The information they did have came from the scrolls and books at the library but even they don't tell how life was once. It was normal and something no one would bother to write down. Aside from written documents, the elders added their input here and there but they mostly kept to themselves at their old age waiting for life to move past the survival stage. 'I wonder if that's why the arts blew up so much. Did life improve that much while I was gone?' The island had many secrets, many of which she hadn't had the opportunity to discover and unlock. The shrine couldn't know everything, only what they had to know. The knowledge that Nori inherited from his grandfather was only so much.
Knowing the professions of some of the elders she had a feeling they held knowledge of some secrets. Secrets they would hold onto until they felt safe. But to create that feeling of home she wanted to know what home was to them. Wanting to know more of those that had lived much longer than her she looked down expectantly. 'Please tell me,' she pleaded with her eyes wanting to know the memories the old vixen held of times long gone.
"I never visited your clan's homeland when it was still around so what I'm saying are things I heard Kuzunoha-hime say." Making that clear he sat up. "Apparently, the festivals were vibrant and splattered with beautiful colors and lights with most of the festivals being celebrated at night. Oh! Speaking of parties, the sake they made was really good and quite the popular export during autumn. Luckily Kuzunoha-hime got the recipe but unfortunately… no one who can make it the way she remembers. She was upset about that. But!" He held up a finger. "The old blacksmith knew something and told the artisan to make it so now we can make it!" Smiling he squished his cheeks remembering the taste. "It was sooo good we were able to give it to that spider clan to apologize for ruining their webs."
Curious about this drink Yukino made a note of it to get a drink of it once she's able to. Aside from that, she was very curious about that incident with the spiders.
"Oh-oh!" Snapping to attention, she looked at the small fox boy bouncing on his seat. "Like you, some have nice singing voices. I remember that clearly. Kuzunoha-hime would laugh at that saying she would get into drinking circles to see how they would get when drunk and host singing competitions or just make people sing. I think the word for it was karaoke"
Chuckling Yukino heard this with a small smile as the fox recounted his master's words. "That seems like… fun." She wanted to say chaotic but she also wanted to see Kuzunoha sing and see it for herself.
"When alcohol is involved you can never know what type of drunk you'll get." Patting her arm he wished her for the best. "I hope you have a higher alcohol tolerance now. You were the loving type I hear."
"Shh…." Shushing him she reminded him of the Kazekage who listened to his recounting.
"Haha… hey did you know apparently unlike most clans the Uzumaki were more of a matriarchy? Apparently, it was mostly due to the golden chains. Women just had a better affinity for learning that hidden technique and they would even pass on their way of learning it to their daughters. Not only that but when it came to special traits and skills those were mostly passed down through the matrilineal line. Like Ryota's family and their special chakra!"
"There might be something there… Ryota mentioned something about his grandmother having the same abilities he did. Not to mention that his mom also has the same traits as him. Red hair, red eyes." In thought, Yukino couldn't help but wonder if that was one of the reasons why she and the subject before her were both females. 'If they wanted a higher chance of producing strong heirs then the ability to impregnate multiple women would have been the safer choice considering the risk of pregnancy. Either that or they wanted to be sure that the offspring came directly from us.' Keeping that thought for another time she listened to the young fox ramble.
"He's lucky to have it. With him marrying Emi soon we can only hope he passes those genes to his daughters. If not, there goes the special chakra at least until it pops up somewhere down her family line." Shrugging once he moved on to Ryota's other family members. "As for his brother, we really can't hope for much. It most likely skipped him or he didn't inherit it at all."
"Genes are quite interesting, aren't they? Looking at his brother it is obvious that he took after his father. Both in appearance and skills." She pointed to her biceps. "Have you seen the man? He's the embodiment of a lumberjack living alone in the woods."
"Mhm!" Agreeing, both of them thought of the quiet but serious man who chopped wood and farmed. 'I wonder how he and Ryota's mom got together…' Yukino asked herself curious about the story behind it. 'I guess they did live in a small settlement.'
"Speaking of love…" Almost as if he read her mind he got excited, even squirming in his seat. "Kuzunoha-hime says that you guys fall in love a few times in your lives. And when you do you fall hard." As if learning a secret he poked her chest playfully. Poking the necklace underneath her clothes. "From what she said remarriage wasn't common." He wore a coy smile as he said that wanting to see just how deep she had fallen for the man. Giving her a small breather he remembered another thing he had read and even heard from the sage. "Although… arranged marriages were a common occurrence, with some doing so in hopes of finding love. But that's just something Kuzunoha-hime said after a few drinks so… eh." Shrugging it off he poked her chest again. "But she did say this. Unlike the surrounding lands, the land of Eddy did have this peculiar tradition of a ring exchange upon engagement… Ryota and Emi did it so it isn't something only done in the past…" Alluding to the ring she hung from her necklace he hummed. "Apparently you guys can get slightly possessive over your lover so putting a ring on it shows their taken status to others… I wonder if you would be the type to do it… hmmm?" With a playful smile on his face, he giggled as he saw her face take on a pinker hue.
"I-I," Stumbling on her words a bit she composed herself as much as she could. "I didn't know it was for that reason…"
"Oh? And what reason did you believe?" Caught in his trap her face grew even redder in embarrassment. Remembering the fact that she had given it as a promise ring she wished to bury a hole for herself since the fox spoke a truth she didn't see at the time. Promising to love him no matter what was essentially the same as her proposing considering that they took part in a fake wedding hours before. "Hehe… if you get married, make sure to invite me. We live longer than any summoning so I can wait for that invitation."
"When I get married I promise to invite all of Mount Inari. Even if I'm old and wrinkly and my red hair has faded."
"Hehe. Then it'll be a sunny day with light rain."
"A fox wedding then."
"A fox wedding?" Gaara asked, reminding the two redheads of the brother who stayed on the couch with them.
"You know the expression… A sunny day with light rain is a sign of a fox wedding nearby." Yukino explained one of the many expressions she's heard in her journeys.
"I've never heard of that before."
"I heard it mostly in areas with mountains surrounded by dense forests. That and I don't see many foxes roam the area."
Pouting Kitaro interjected with a whine. "I was so close to seeing a wedding too but Kamen and Misa-san broke up!" Kicking his feet he lightly tugged on Yukino's arm. Drawing attention to himself on purpose as he was ordered to by another Uzumaki. "I never experienced an Uzumaki festival before either! It's not fair that all the good things happened before I was old enough to remember!"
"But the summer festivals in Mount Inari are wonderful. I doubt they could have been that great…"
"It has to be! Kuzunoha-hime talks about it whenever she drinks."
"She likes drinking. If anything she was probably drunk when she saw the festival. Are you sure she wasn't talking about the sake you mentioned earlier?" Pointing that out she remembered that the old vixen stopped drinking in front of her at some point.
"Well, I still want to see a wedding…"
"Ryota and Emi will marry. You can attend that one if they allow it."
Happy with the suggestion he poked her again. "Hey, they always expected you to marry but I've been wondering… what do you think marriage is?" He asked, remembering the hot topic of her potential suitors a few years back.
"Compared to what I first thought marriage was, I see how simple it was. You know two people living together in a house raising kids. Husband goes to work. Wife stays at home and does domestic stuff." With a small laugh, she closed her eyes. "But now I believe it's deeper than that. It's a union between two people who love each other. Two people that have chosen to commit their lives to each other." Holding one of his hands in hers she massaged his hand as she explained. "Someone you can go home to at the end of the day. Someone who no matter how much time passes still feels their heartthrob from time to time when they are with you. Someone you know that will be there for you."
"That's nice. I hope my heart goes Kyuun for someone too." Holding his chest, he looked up at the young woman who chuckled at his choice of words. Extending his arm he placed his hand on her arm. "Even though we weren't as lively as them, or took you to many festivals… we enjoyed taking care of you. You're precious to us but we know we can't hog you to ourselves in that chunk of forest." Playing with the bell hanging from his side he looked down. Time had passed quickly. Faster than he had expected. His life span was double of hers but even so, he couldn't pity himself but instead pitied the current sage. Having watched generations come and go he wondered how much the destruction of that clan affected her that she spoke about in her most drunken befuddled moments. From what his senior scholar had told him their connection to that clan that lived in among the whirlpools had lasted centuries. With the relationship passing for more than just summon and summoner.
Stopping his train of thought, he looked back at his little sibling and smiled. Growing up together and the fact that he was older it only made sense to use that term. "Kuzunoha-hime is happy that you fit in with the new era of the clan. She's happy you found a home among them as you've dreamed. Even if it's without them." Getting up he picked up the suitcase. Making it clear to the red-haired woman that their time was running out. "She hopes that you live a much calmer life. You are quite restless for a quiet child, you know that?" Chuckling he went quiet quickly. "But even so, we both know that won't happen taking care of others is hard work."
Hearing his caring words she felt her body fighting to hold onto him for a bit more. Lowering her head she quickly pushed the feeling she had knowing that would be selfish to do. Fixing the expressions she showed on her face she raised her head again. With a small smile, she laughed. "You're always welcome to drop by like last time."
"Sure, once you're able to summon me." He reminded her. Hopping on the table he sat down on top of the suitcase and waved goodbye. "Don't stay here too long!" Poof!
"I'm back!" Coming into the room with a popcorn bowl Kankurō looked around. "Did he leave?"
"Yeah… since he isn't in a contract with you so he can only stay for as much chakra as you shared. That and the chakra he has can only keep him here for so long. Thanks for helping me with summoning him." Reaching for the summoning paper she crumpled it up and ripped it to shreds as it was something the foxes had specifically shared with her. I wasn't something she was going to share or had the right to.
"No problem." Sitting next to her once more he placed the bowl on the table.
Counting over the snacks she noticed a few were missing. "By the way Gaara. It seems he took a couple of snacks."
"When did he?"
"When he opened his eyes. Also, I know you took some for Kankurō." With a smirk on her face, she took a chocolate bar. "I call dibs on this one." Placing it on her lap alongside the book she was given she put on the gloves she took off.
"The movie is coming on." Alerted they all settled down. Seated on either side of her on the couch Yukino sat in the middle. Hogging the blanket she wrapped herself looking almost like a small snow spirit some may hear of in colder lands. A Yukinko.
Excited for the movie, it came on as the clock struck nine and by routine her eyes grew heavy and closed. Having skipped a night's sleep the night prior she didn't fight as much as she wanted, falling asleep. Seated there quietly, those seated beside her thought she was entranced by the movie by her silence and so no one chose to talk. Aside from that, the movie started with the protagonist's past showing the abuse they faced from their father making those watching feel a bit awkward. From that point, the protagonist worked towards success relying on their own strength eventually finding people to rely on.
The rest of the movie later…
"It's getting kinda cold don't you think?" Kankurō said, voicing his discomfort as the one hogging the blankets was wrapped up in them. "Hey, share some of it." Sitting up he lightly tugged on the blanket only to have his heart jump out as the woman tipped sideways and fell towards him. As if she were a puppet whose strings were cut she fell on top of him with the blanket still wrapped around her.
Flinching upon collision the woman sat up immediately. Disoriented, her head whipped back and forth trying to figure out where she was. "Where?" Looking at the tv and the rolling credits she sighed as her brain remembered where and when she was last. "I missed the movie didn't I?"
"Did you sleep through the whole movie?"
"I… I've always slept at nine… since I was young… it's become a natural reaction for me." Interrupted from her sleep her eyes looked over at the clock seeing that it was currently eleven one hour short of her getting her full sleep. "I'm sorry. What was the movie about?"
"Eh… you know those rising to success stories. Nothing much." He tried to avoid going into too much detail.
"His childhood was hard." His younger brother added.
"Well for those types of stories that is a common trope. A tragic past results in the most satisfaction for us when we see their dreams come true" With a sigh, she sat back down on the couch unwrapping herself from the blanket.
"Speaking of childhood…" Gaara started still curious as to why the one tails had targeted her thinking the answer was in the past.
"How was yours?" Kankurō caught on, asking the sleepy woman as well.
Still partially asleep she didn't hesitate to answer. "I… I was an orphan. After the Kyuubi had been dealt with, I was… found by Mikoto Uchiha… For a couple of years after that… mmm… I grew up in the hospital alone… the nurses weren't much for conversation." Holding her neck absent-mindedly she snapped out of her sleepy state. Keeping up the act she pretended to slowly wake up. "At three years of age, I left… My aunt then took claim of me when she found me and raised me on her own. She's the one who taught me to weave." Letting out a yawn she pushed away the cold blanket handing it to the brother who had voiced he was cold.
"Wait if you were orphaned how is Kamen-san your father?"
"..." Scratching her head she realized this was the first time she had to verbalize it to someone. "Otou-san is one of the summonings that raised me. He's a fox summon. Like Kitaro-kun he can use the transformation technique." Explaining she caught the look of astonishment on his face and smiled. "He was around most of the time. As a kid, I grew attached to him." Chuckling she didn't feel the need to hide the secret of her peculiar upbringing. "It was not just him that took care of me. Kuzunoha-san, Haruka-sama, the twins, Hina and Haru, and Misa-san. They all raised me and taught me the things I know."
Holding up the old book she remembered the ones in her room guessing that the twins were the ones who retrieved them from the hideout. "My shinobi training was mostly overlooked by the twins. They taught me to be strong. Strong enough to flip a kid to the ground even though I was smaller than almost everyone in my class." Smiling at the memory, she felt her chest grow warm in turn stopping her body from chilling the room anymore than she had. "They trained me… and they were gentle. No matter how many times I was slammed onto the ground. Kicked into the koi pond face first. Or thrown into the air. I never broke a bone." She spoke with a soft aura that both men were caught off guard at the contrast of her words. To them, it sounded more like torture than something to be looked at with fondness. "There were times however when I would be trained to the point where I would sleep for days but those rests were the most refreshing. Then there were others when they would only train me a bit before goofing around. Those times were when I really wanted to go all out but they wouldn't let me." Letting out a small chuckle she sighed. "They knew my limits before I ever realized it." Wondering if she should bring her up she chose to do so knowing they wouldn't be able to put two and two together. And by that, she meant that Mikoto was Sasuke's mom. For a large compound, she guessed that the chances of there being another with the same name to be possible. "But before that. When it was just my aunt and me. I had someone else look after me. A human." She clarified before they got a weird idea of how she was raised. "Hidden in the woods away from the rest of the village my aunt raised me in secrecy. But because of that, I had the chance to meet the woman who found me again."
"Mikoto Uchiha right?"
"Correct." She applauded the Kazekage for remembering and guessing correctly. "She taught me many things, basic manners for one, how to cook, gardening, and how to socialize."
"That's nice." Kankurō sighed. "It seems your childhood was a happy one."
Hearing that comment she felt her chest grow tight as she remembered theirs. "I'm sorry. Yours wasn't so much." Then again she remembered everything she had to see and hear as she grew up. The favoritism. The whispers of distrust. The confession of her friend of a coup. At that point, she began to wish for when things were simpler and when she was naive to the issues that surrounded them. But if she had been so naive then the impact of that moonlight night would have hit her more than she wanted it to. Would she have been broken?
Remembering Mikoto's smile she calmed down. Thinking about what to do she extended her arms, grabbing their heads and pulling them towards her in a gentle half hug. "You have worked so hard today. I'm proud. Make sure to not overdo it alright?" Absentmindedly kissing the top of their heads she let go rather proud of herself for mimicking the woman who took care of her.
Waiting for a response she looked between both brothers who sat there frozen. Worried that she crossed some boundary she wondered what to say. "Ah… I'm sorry. Was that too much?" Looking at her gloved hands she wondered if they were too cold.
"No… it's fine." Clearing his throat, Kankurō was the first to speak. "You just sounded like one of those moms. You know the kind ones."
Taking that as a compliment she nodded, "Mikoto-san would do something like that to me. It was mostly sweets though… She never had any daughters so she doted on me when I would visit." Looking over at his brother she flinched in surprise upon seeing his cracking face. "Ah… I'm sorry." Looking back at the older brother she gestured behind her. "I thought it would be okay." On the wall behind the older brother, a photo caught her eye. Among the pictures hanging was their uncle. "…Her smile was a lot like his."
Following her eyes, Kankurō understood who she referred to and smiled before remembering that the Uchiha were all gone. "I'm sorry for your loss but we aren't just used to hugs like that." Scratching his head he admitted something in a quiet voice. "It wasn't bad."
Regaining his senses the younger brother added something of his own upon seeing the picture both of them were looking at. "She must have been quite gentle."
"She was. You know if it weren't for her advice I wouldn't have had the strength to talk to either of you back then." Sighing she remembered the anxiety she felt at the thought. "Just talking to another person I didn't know was stressful for me. At that point, I had only interacted with two people constantly. And to be told to make friends? That was too much without either of them giving me that push in this foreign land."
"Hahaha, so that's why you acted like that?" With a smile on his face, Kankurō recollected certain things clearly. "Now that you mention that, I do remember how your face would constantly redden as well as your stutters."
Hearing this she grabbed the blanket back from him and curled up hiding her face within its folds. "I wish you guys could forget about that." Her muffled voice begged him as it came through the blanket.
Realizing this was an opportunity to tease her he immediately remembered something. "Ah, now that I think about it you ate like a hamster too." Curious, she looked wondering if he was just pulling her leg. Noticing one of her blue eyes peeking from the blanket, he held an imaginary onigiri with both hands and nibbled on it. "You took small and quick bites. Like this." He said, puffing up his cheeks slightly.
Shaking her head she let go of the blanket covering her face with her own hands to feel her face. 'They couldn't have been that noticeable right?' Embarrassed at the thought she left herself exposed to the younger sibling who encroached from the other side.
With a single finger, he tapped the tip of her ear that nearly blended in with her hair. "They're so red." With a small chuckle, he teased her.
Bolting up in surprise she tried to think of a comeback but her head was a mess as her memories of her younger self flashed in her brain confirming what they had said. "Y-y-you bullies!" Flustered even more she covered her ears. Exposing her steaming face and her teary eyes. A sight that made both brothers immediately apologize remembering Ryota's warning about taking her away.
As they did there was a small thought in the corner of her mind wondering why they were so curious as to how she was raised. But that thought didn't amount to much as she brushed it off. Accepting it as just pure curiosity on their part. A curiosity she knew all too well.
・
A/N: I made a Tumblr account recently with the same author name. I will be transferring the works I posted on deviant art there. To be honest updates on that will be rare since drawing takes time and I'm mostly focusing on this story. Looking at my timeline there are two years left of Yukino's story to write. Two years as in her years in the story. Right now she's 21. There will be another lemon in the future. Hope I've improved since my last one tbh.