Chapter 70: A Crown for One

Yukino's POV

My arrival by sea this time was vastly different than my first. Letting the wind push my sails I could now distinguish the difference in sound caused by the waves swaying and the waves twisting into a vortex. A full day and night at sea later I could see the island, its shores were bare with white sand with dense trees lining the shore. Not a single soul or light in sight just as it should be, just as the genjutsu barrier should be showing. Already being marked I passed through a layer of fog obscuring my sight for not even a minute as I passed through. The moment I crossed the barrier a shiver ran up my spine as I felt the coils of the seal wrap around my neck binding me to the island.

Gripping my neck I felt a sudden weight push me down as the reality of my situation hit me. Before I could think the fog began to lighten up. Looking up I saw the buildings of ghgh and its growing port, even from where I was I could see the sailors already up and getting their ship ready to sail by morning.

Taking advantage of the low morning fog I steered my boat to the quiet beach away from the port. Letting the waves push the boat to shore I dragged it on land before sitting on the white sand. 'I did it. I made it before the limit.'

Letting my body relax I let out a sigh. Resting my head on my knees I dug my feet into the sand feeling the grains slip into my sandals. Closing my eyes I listen to the waves that I have been listening to for the last few hours. Yet somehow everything seemed so still and quiet as if I was the only one still awake.

'You have to report to the shrine.' My voice nagged me, reminding me of what I had set myself on doing. I had to tell them I didn't need any handicaps. I could do it. I. I was WORTHY.

'Worthy to who? Your aunt? Just who are you proving yourself to.' Laughing as tears trickled out of my eyes I wiped away the hot tears. "You made the choice you live with it now." I chastised myself, angry for being so easily swayed by the guilt caused by my decisions and actions even though there was reasoning behind my final decision. 'Why? Just why? They warned you over and over and you stupidly didn't listen.' For just a moment I felt like I could open my heart up again and like before I ignored just how bad it could end and got myself hurt.

Lightly stroking my neck trying to find the seal by just touch I felt nothing but the sweat of an oncoming fever. Digging deeper into the sand I tried to relax knowing that the stress would just make me sicker. Looking down at my stomach a new set of worries came to mind. Although hidden by my clothes I knew that with 3 it would only take a few more weeks for the change to be noticeable. Yet another thing I had to explain even though I was already going to announce Haruki's existence. Sighing I pulled myself up as much as the silence was calming eventually time had to resume. The choice was made and now it was time to live with it. "I just hope you'll have more freedom than me." Turning to the woods I went in making my way to the shrine to get things over with.

Kichi's POV

Finishing my inspection of the ceremonial garb I looked around for Nori who put me up to the task. As I passed the map room I briefly saw the man I was looking for and immediately turned around, poking my head into the room I quietly tip-toed around and behind him.

"I know you're there Kichi."

"Aww at least pretend."

Rolling his eyes he let out a small laugh. Clearing his throat his smile faded, and with a light tilt of his head he gestured to the map. Looking at the map my eyes moved to the Anbu Cove at the small blob of highlighted dots. Nothing odd about that as everyone had the mark to be able to come and leave the island as of this moment. Remembering the report of the silvermaiden docking to restock I didn't see this group of dots concerning. 'Well, it is the end of the month they're right on schedule for another departure.' Spotting a dot off to the side without the rest a flag immediately rose during this time the Anbu had close supervision of all their marked members until they left. 'Please don't tell me it's another one.' Feeling my heart break a bit at the possibility of facing another traitor I remembered the two occasions before when two of our Anbu had begun to falter and begun to believe returning to their old village was possible. The price they were willing to pay to return was our precious relics and books. Of course, they didn't get far as those they had confided in to participate in the scheme told their superior and were quickly caught in the act. So we did the only thing we knew for certain would keep us safe, we locked away all traces of us from their mind and dropped them off on the mainland.

I felt my heart pick up in pace as I wondered who among our shinobi would stab us in the back. Looking over at Nori his stance was too relaxed to be that. Why he couldn't show more panic was beyond me. Then it hit me. Looking back at the area where the dot was, a small thought came to mind. 'What if they aren't from the island? Wait…' realizing they must've come from outside there was currently only one who had that capability right now. "Is that Yukino!?" A big smile spread on my face. Elated at her return I also felt jitters as the tasks for the ceremony came to mind. 'Everyone will be so happy to hear she's back. I can't wait! Oh, but there is so much to do!'

"Mhm." He replied his purple eyes still on the map.

"What's wrong Nori?"

"She's been there for the last hour. Do you think she's planning on going back?"

"Ah," Feeling the words unable to come out I had to admit that was a possibility, and as selfish as it sounded a part of me hoped she ended up choosing Uzushio. Compared to how life was years ago before our kami sent her to our shores I could say for certain that her appearance was indeed a blessing even if she didn't know it yet. The days when we had to start from scratch just trying to create medicines, much less trying to learn proper medical ninjutsu that could do more good than harm instead of it feeling like a gamble every time we even attempted it seemed so far away. Yet it was still fresh enough for me to feel thankful every time we could provide some help.

"She's heading in." Feeling relief I felt a light tap on my shoulder. "Go rest I can tell you've been up late trying to wrap things up at the office."

"Oh, do I?" pressing my eyelids I felt a puffiness to it. "I didn't think it was that noticeable." I laughed. "It's fine I'll just get a cold spoon and it will subdue it real quick."

Sighing he shook his head. "Go sleep you crazy woman running on fumes does no one good. If you don't sleep now you'll fall asleep at the worst time." Pushing me out of the map room, he turned around to lock it before pushing me in the direction of the dormitories. "I mean it, I'll send Ayumu to check up on you and you better be asleep." Feeling the threat in his words I just imagined the nagging of my fellow priest.

"Geez alright you don't have to send him." He might be a year younger but we both joined the shrine at the same time. Worst of all he never wasted an opportunity to point out what I did wrong. Yeah, my laziness resulted in his nagging but to think he would nag me for actually working. Begrudgingly I dragged my feet to the dorms making a good point of my displeasure so Nori could see.

Yukino's POV

Reaching the shrine I climbed up the many steps making sure to pace myself remembering how only a couple of years ago I had run up these same steps to hand over the same emblem I was handing over today.

Looking up at the top of the steps Nori came into view standing before the entrance to the worship hall.

Seeing me he dropped to one knee putting down his naginata on the stone next to him, and bowed his head. "Welcome Ohime-sama."

"Please don't, you know I was never one for formalities." Taking out the main family's stone from my obi I tossed it to him and he caught it with the same grace as he did back then.

"..."

"Is there something else I need to do?" I asked noticing his silence.

"No, we are just glad you made it back safely. Please rest while I place this somewhere safe. I'll be back shortly with details of the second trial." Taking the stone with him I stared at his retreating back. I haven't told him yet about what I decided, eventually, I would have to since per the agreement Kankuro would be coming by just to be there to witness those important events we agreed to. 'I hope Nori doesn't get angry with my choice.' I hoped he didn't see my agreement as a threat to the island.

Focused I noticed a shrine maiden approach. "Please follow me to your room. Nori-san will give you the details of the second trial tomorrow." Considering that I didn't know what exactly waited for me next trial I took the offer.

・・・

After a full day's rest, Nori came knocking the next morning with a small piece of paper. Handing it to me and I looked at what would appear to be a section of a map with a marker in the ocean. Being there when the new map was being drawn I remember spending a good while admiring how every line came to be. With my memory, it was easy to figure out where I was being told to go. Flipping it around I saw squiggly lines with one of them having a light red outline.

"In this spot, there will be an entrance to an underwater cavern. There will be a series of tunnels with dead ends but only one will lead to the heir's cave. Once inside you will have to pick your diadem's centerpiece. You may take as long as you wish inside."

"Is that really the second trial?"

"It is. If I'm being honest this would be more of a challenge for someone without your abilities but this is tradition. Once you return I will give you your final trial."

"Alright. I'll be back by tomorrow."

"And we will be here waiting."

・・・

Looking down from above along the shoreline in the cliffs near the Anbu Cove I lined up the bumps on the map with that of the cliff. Ling myself to the point I measured the distance to the underwater entrance before walking away from the cliff. Getting some momentum I ran to the edge and jumped off creating small water platforms to where I believed the tunnel waited.

With a last leap, I took in a deep breath and gathered water around me forming a dome before crashing into the water. Keeping a hand on the dome I stabilized myself and pushed the bubble I was in down, deeper into the ocean. Breath steady I scanned the area keeping an eye for the ocean floor watching as the light began to dim slightly with every foot of water I passed.

Making it to the seafloor I activated the getsugan and looked around at the lit-up area. Spotting an entrance a few feet before me, I directed the bubble to a hole large enough to comfortably fit two people.

Laying down and elongating my bubble I moved into the tunnel and navigated the tunnel system with ease thanks to the clue. Reaching the end I poked my head out of the water, bubble and all, and saw what was once pitch darkness began to sparkle with the new soft glow of my eyes. Gathering some, of the plentiful water around me, I made a small light orb and pushed it out raising it above my head. As I did the area around me began to light up in all sorts of beautiful colors. Remaining in my bubble I dragged myself out of the water and looked up seeing how the light refracted against each surface as I and my light orb moved. Walking around the chamber I noticed a few halls leading into other chambers full of equally splendid precious stones. Treading carefully I realized I should have packed or worn some silver. With the recent meteor crashing I wasn't going to be too confident about the air quality or safety in this cave system right now.

Walking around a few of the halls to map out the underground cave I went deeper and deeper coming across a large crystal in one of the rooms. Large in width and height I walked around it in admiration. Hesitatingly reaching for it my bubble made contact and spread out around a small section of it exposing the smooth cool stone. Kuzunoha-sama's story came to mind, her words after the story were hazy as my body began to slip into a slumber. 'Once everything settles I'll invite her to lunch. I wonder what she'll be in the mood for this time.'

Pulling away I kept exploring until I stopped at a sign: Warning poisonous gas. Do not go lower.

'So they have been down here.' Thinking of how deep the entrance to this place was I could assume that the Sirens probably helped getting down here, but if the shrine did the inspection then there must be another entrance here.

About to turn back a glint from below caught my eye. Peering over the edge of the steep tunnel I motioned for my light to move down as it did I saw the cavern below light up and among the glittering stones, a small blue glint drew my attention. I knew then this would be my centerpiece.

With a wave of my hand, a fistful of my bubble split off and darted below. Feeling the size of the raw stone I formed a bubble ring around its base and with a droplet I began to spin it eroding the weaker stone before slowly turning the water to ice. Seeing a spark light up the bubble all I saw was smoke as I kept slicing away at the stone. Feeling the stone come loose I grabbed the piece with a single tendril.

Bringing up the stone to analyze I narrowed my eyes hearing a faint whistle coming from behind me, deeper into the island. Listening carefully a faint songlike pattern could be heard earning a smile from me. Responding to its call I sought it out.

Emi's POV

Watching my fiancee dive into the healing spring just a few minutes ago I sat by the water's edge playing with the healing waters. Although healings were no longer conducted here a portion of the water was still gathered monthly and sent to the hospitals. To think this same spring held a secret deep below.

Taking in a deep breath I dunked my head into the water and held myself in place waiting for the sound of water and bubbles to pass. Even with that noise, I could still hear the whistle. Pulling myself out I gasped for air and wiped my face.

In my blind state, a friendly hand pushed a towel my way. Taking it I looked up from the soft towel and saw Kichi and Nori-san. Like me, they have been waiting for her to come out after the first 4 hours. After that Ryota went below the spring and blew the whistle trying to call her back. Knowing her she would have no trouble navigating those caverns even if it took her weeks to see the sun again. That stubborn woman would even claw at the ground itself if she had to. Chuckling at the thought I curled up and looked at the water below at my kind-hearted fiancee and my crazy friend as they emerged gasping for air.

"Just in time for dinner," I smiled at my redheads as I got up and skipped across the water's surface. Extending a hand to them both I gripped them tightly as I pulled them up. "The shrine was about to leave you two down there until morning." I teased.

"Don't put it like that." Kichi panicked from the shore. "The breathable air down there is limited as is we just don't want her to asphyxiate." She crossed her arms with a small and familiar pout she always did when embarrassed or in thought.

"It's as Kichi says." Nori-san cleared up looking away for a moment feeling a bit embarrassed. Straightening his back he turned to Yukino and spoke once she made it to shore. "Congratulations Ohime-sama on passing the second trial. Rest. Tomorrow your final trial will begin." Lowering his head he held out two towels for them to take.

"Nori please drop the formalities."

"I cannot for the duration of the trials." With some light teasing from Ryota, Yukino handed over the raw stone and she was permitted to leave the shrine grounds for a well-deserved dinner.

・・・

Pulling the water out of her trial clothes Kichi took them to properly clean it while she was distracted changing into a clean set of dry clothes we brought for her. "Ready?" she beamed as she ran out of the shrine, her hakama pants fluttering with each step she took and her blue haori shielding her from the chilly late summer night air.

Once she reached us we began hopping down the many steps leading up to the shrine sharing a few jokes about her new title and teasing by her speaking all fancy for a while. Giggling all the way down to the last step, changing our pace to blend into the populace we began to walk and just talk about the things that had changed giving her a needed breakdown of the small things that have been going on these last three years.

Picking up some takeout we headed back to the apartment I shared with Ryota. Glancing around Yukino let out a small Ooh in awe. "Like it? Since we'll be getting married we decided to move out of our place."

"The place is twice as big as your old places. What are you two going to do with the spare room?"

"Oh, you can see for yourself." Ryota smiled as he set the table. Nudging her to look she went ahead as she opened our bedroom door. Walking up to Ryota I cupped his cheek with one hand and kissed his cheek, staring into each other eyes we heard the second bedroom door open. Hearing a gasp we both giggled as she found the nursery.

"When did this happen!?" We heard her exclaim from the room hearing quiet shuffling as she got closer to each corner to inspect the items within.

Letting go of Ryota I peered into the room with a smile as she looked with tender eyes at the blankets and the few knit plushies decorating the room, items Ryota had spent lovingly making after work. Knowing already he knew how to make cloth thanks to the elder of his colony I was surprised at the extent of his knowledge of the crafts that he picked up when he showed up one day with the crafts he's been secretly making since hearing the news. "Not long after your excuse at the trial, I realized I was late. We were already going to marry and we have no issues with money, it just felt like a natural step to take."

"I'm so happy for you both!" She beamed staring at the toys lovingly. "Hehe, I'm going to be an aunt." Even though she smiled there was a lingering sadness she tried her best to mask but her vibrant blue eyes held a small dullness deep within. "Come let's eat before the food gets cold." I guided her out of the room. Knowing her situation I didn't point out the small hole in her heart and led her back to the dining table to warm her heart in the company of friends. Silently letting her know we were still here for her no matter how much time had passed.

3rd POV

Walking at dawn back to the shrine Yukino took the moment to take in the scenery. From the tall buildings and apartments in the city center to the houses and businesses in the outskirts close to the shrine, everything appeared old and new at the same time. What was once a forest now held human life within its walls. Although the buildings had sprouted from the ground years ago the lives they now housed had her in silent awe. Having spent the last few years in her towering office looking over the numbers and statistics, the many restoration plans, and projects. She had left the inspection of it all to Nori and had used her portals to get from place to place not really taking the time to breathe and take a small walk. She had always been on the run to get one thing or another done as if running against some invisible clock.

Taking it all in she made it to the stairs and began her slow ascent.

・・・

"Now for the final trial, you must convince a blacksmith or artisan to construct your diadem. You cannot offer them money or buy their services for this." Handing a list of every blacksmith she scanned the names spotting a few she was familiar with.

"So I'm just supposed to convince them to make it for me?"

"Exactly it is a trial of public perception."

"Don't you think they would say yes otherwise considering my title?"

"You would think so but the head priest is always present to prevent any unsavory threats." He smiled making me guess any such threat was an immediate disqualification and failure.

Looking over the names again she pointed to her pick, a woman and jeweler who she had come to know through Ryota's colony and a daughter of one of the elders. "Let's pay Kei a visit." Living half an hour away at a steady pace they arrived at the jeweler's workshop.

Looking over various designs in her open workshop the experienced jeweler groaned at the artist block she now faced.

The jewelry based on her designs were the most precious things sold on the merchant ships but they only held relevance and value so long as she designed something that deemed it so. But she just had to have hit a slump. Necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. She's tried about every variation she could think of. Sighing she knew a small island wasn't much for inspiration. 'Maybe it's time I go check out Kazahana again.' In her mulling, she stared out into the street and spotted a woman with garnet-red hair and vibrant blue eyes as deep as a highly praised sapphire.

By her description alone she knew who had arrived at her doorstep. Knowing she was the source of the Anbu's intel sharing through the memory marbles her opportunity to have a view of the world at her fingertips was within reach especially if she was here for that reason.

"Well well well," she jumped up and stepped out of her workshop, "I didn't think you'd choose me over my dad. I can't wait till he hears of this." The woman beamed with a smirk tugging at her lips. "Please no need to wait out here step in. What can I do for you?" I eagerly guided them out of the sun.

"Kei-san please be a bit sterner," Nori sighed, having just told every blacksmith, jeweler, and artisan on the island a week ago to be a bit more critical and say no if they had the slightest reservation about her leading.

"I know and let me tell you I have absolutely zero complaints. I just want a tiny thing in exchange and it ain't money." She clarified to the head priest, remembering the rules well. "All I ask for in exchange are three memory marbles of incredible sights."

"Sounds fair." She agreed, her voice beautiful yet firm, different from the dainty voice she imagined. Although never met her before she had believed, based on the rumors, of her being as dainty as a pearl who had fallen into a comatose slumber not long after the war. But seeing her now she resembled more of the Sapphires that came to mind when I looked at her sharp eyes. Her stance was relaxed but there was a tenseness to it that I've been familiar with seeing in the Anbu.

"Hmm… an incredible sight. Oh, the Aurora Borealis in the land of iron. The sight there is splendid with a soft layer of snow over everything." Thinking about it even though they could catch the lights here the sight of it being highlighted by the white snow was enticing so she accepted it. "Interested in Kumogakure? The village has peaks that pass the clouds, if you go high enough you could walk among the clouds or over them." Hearing this the jeweler shook in excitement nodding excitedly. "And the final incredible sight I could think of is… hm, ah, a fight on the moon."

"!" Surprised the jeweler looked over at the head priest wondering if this was her sense of humor but seeing the same surprised expression as she had her surprise soon turned into glee. "I'LL TAKE IT!" She quickly jumped at the memories she was being offered, not letting this once-in-a-lifetime chance slip her fingers. This was not at all what she was expecting. She was thinking of foreign lands she's never seen like the ever-expanding desert of the Land of Wind or even heck the rocky terrain of the Land of Earth.

Nori, watching everything go down, resigned that this heir was indeed different from the ones his grandfather described. Although easier he had prepared himself for some pushback or struggle yet she passed each challenge with flying colors. 'Maybe this was our Kamis's design.'

August

Yukino's POV

After the first visit, I gave every measurement the Kei-san required of me as well as the stone I had picked out. To my surprise, the large stone turned out to be a sapphire. The irony was not lost on me as that gemstone had followed me my entire life.

Reading the letter of its completion I received yesterday I felt a flutter in my stomach once more as the coronation was just a few hours away. As I waited for Kichi in my bathrobe I looked down at my visible stomach the reason why I hadn't been woken at dawn per tradition and been ready yet as the ceremony was currently in progress. My health and comfort were taken into account as my bump had become noticeably round just three months along. Although I had expected the growth I didn't expect it to be so noticeable so early on. Although Emi was able to hide her bump with loose clothing she was no bigger than her and she was two more months along hers. I knew after this was over I would have to talk to the clan heads and the elders about my situation as it would become impossible to hide in another month.

Hearing the door slide open my attention turned to Kichi. "Ready?" She asked taking a deep breath and wiping the sweat on her palms on her hakama pants.

Seeing someone more nervous than I drew a small chuckle escaped me. "Yes."

"Alright then," she titered as she walked over to get the kosode I would wear as my first layer for the jūnihitoe which unfortunately for me would consist of all 12 layers as its name declared. Trying to alleviate any nerves we had with light chatter we laughed at the stories she told, "... and you should have seen what happened the spring after the war at night all these glow bugs suddenly emerged it was crazy! A bunch of them started chasing Nori when he went out with a lantern! Hahaha!" Wrapping on the 5th layer her laugh died down and she went quiet.

Curious I glanced down noticing her starting up with teary eyes. "You've grown so much… It's almost as if yesterday when you washed upon our shores."

"Haha yeah ugh I still remember the stomach ache I got from drinking all that seawater." I laughed quietly and took a moment to actually look at Kichi. Time had passed in more ways than I thought and it took me this while to take in the faces of those around me. Wrinkles that weren't there before almost ten years ago had suddenly popped up and the few silver hairs that one could miss at a glance were woven between brown waves of hair. 'No… I just didn't take the time to properly look at them.' As she wiped her eyes I took note of her hands. 'Were they always this thin?' Reaching out let out a small exhale. "Kichi, there's no need to be sad. They're just putting a piece of jewelry on my head."

"On the surface, it's that…" She sniffed. "But Yukino we know how much you've had to give up to be with us. It's selfish to say but we want you to be happy but… but this is the only path we know will guarantee our survival. I just, we feel so sorry–"

"These choices are mine Kichi. So don't feel bad." Opening a small portal I pulled out a handkerchief and wiped her eyes. "Now we should hurry we can't leave Nori up on that stage in front of aaall of Uzushio with no ruler to present. He'll be so upset if we leave him hanging like that."

"Haha, as much as I would love to tease him like that we can't ruin this for everyone who's been listening to the ceremony." Sniffing she cleared her throat. "I think this many layers hide it, I'll go wash my face and call in the girls to help finish. Be back in a minute!" Before I could speak she sprinted out of the room. Left alone I reminisced for a moment the time I had dedicated to the place. 'Once this is over… maybe I should take a small trip to see how much everything changed.' Feeling hopeful and a bit excited at the idea I smiled.

3rd POV

In front of the worship Hall Nori stood atop a stage, that had rapidly pieced together yesterday, and rolled up the final ritual rite. After two hours of rites in the summer sun, he was grateful for the occasional cloud blocking the sun and the cool breeze that swept by. With a few more words he addressed the crowd. "Many moons have passed since the last ceremony was held… many of you know of the events that had scarred this land. We have all heard of the things it has lost, its people, its traditions, its knowledge… However, we all stand here today to preserve what was left for us and to bring about a new chapter for this place we all call home." Some people in the audience clapped and Nori continued from atop the stage they had constructed a few days earlier. "Coming from different nations and continents, bearing different or similar stories the people beside you have been guided here by some force or a helping hand. In the end, the currents have brought us together, to this sanctuary. By the moon and tides, they have also brought back to the people of this land a missing part of its history, its mother, the ruler of this land… To protect, care, and nurture its children that is what wearing this crown signifies." Nori raised it for everyone to see. "In the past, this land was ruled by two to make sure no tyrant rises to bring ruin to our home. However today we will crown the individual who has made this place our home and who brought all of us safety. So for just this ruling until the next we wish for you all to think of our jou-heika as someone separate from Yukino Uzumaki."

Saying her name the doors behind him opened and Yukino stepped, her eyes closed and head held high exuding a graceful and dignified aura. Looking behind him at Yukino he took in for a moment the layers upon layers of beautifully colored clothes that she wore that were lovingly crafted by the residents, and whose red vibrant hair was tied and adorned with flowers that had been gifted. Looking at her he could feel the gratitude of everyone present and quickly wiped his eyes hoping his grandfather would be watching this moment. Facing the crowd once more he addressed the crowd. "From the struggles to raise this nation from its ashes… today she too is reborn. Today, our jou-heika will be given a new name. When she wears this crown she will no longer be Yukino Uzumaki the woman who watches our military, who moves our shinobi in the shadows to protect our land… We ask everyone to acknowledge that the owner of this crown, as the mother of our nation… the person who will bring growth and prosperity to our land. Today…" Raising the crown he lowered it on the red-haired woman's head, "we welcome Tsukiko (moon child) Uzumaki as she ascends the throne."

Clapping resounded from the audience as they welcomed this moment in their history. Most having lived under a daimyo who could care less about them, felt relief that someone who understood their struggles would be at the top. Having known of her efforts everyone accepted this strange decision but respected it since based on custom.

Once the clapping subsided Yukino inhaled. She was told ahead of time of this change and even consulted on what name she would want. Thinking about it she wanted to choose something that would represent the nation yet she wanted her new name to retain a piece of her of her current name. The result was a combination of her name and the original name of the woman who had haunted her since childhood. Even so, the woman had yet to show a trace of herself to the very thing she had worked for.

Proceeding with the ceremony Nori turned to Kichi who handed him her sword, Nagareboshi. An item they had agreed on making the new heirloom. A sword with a white hilt and scabbard, Holding it up for the crowd to see he drew the sword, and with the sunlight the black metal sparkled slightly as if a piece of the sky had been used for the blade. Handing the sword over to Yukino she held it up with both hands before lowering her head. Turning behind him once more he reached for the diadem, a beautiful golden headpiece with a large sapphire embedded into its center, the remaining stone for it was carved into smaller gemstones and placed carefully forming a wavelike pattern.

Looking down I carefully slipped the diadem atop her head fitting perfectly as expected from a talented craftsman. With the crowd on she raised her head, after an hour of silence he stepped back handing over the stage to her.

Addressing the crowd her mind went blank, taking in a quiet inhale she spoke loudly and clearly her words to herself. "From here forth, you will not have to run anymore, you do not have to hide… You can finally rest." Then she lifted her face and opened her eyes. Quiet surprised whispers could be heard from the crowd as they saw sparkling pale eyes as soft as a polished moonstone. At the same time, everyone agreed on the chosen name as their new ruler's eyes looked upon them softly like moonlight. "No matter where you come from or what abilities you possess you are all my precious children and as long as you are in my home you will be in my care. I would not be here right now if your wishes did not motivate me to keep going." Beginning to tear up she blinked rapidly and held in her sniffles. "We should remember to never forget where we came from or what led us to come here because the day we do we lose our hopes for the future. I will do my best to carry us all to a better tomorrow. Even if takes me years, decades… or my whole life. I will repay the love you have all shown me. Thank you!" As the tears streamed down her face she wore a huge smile as she waved to everyone in attendance.

Once the ceremony and greetings the clan heads, elders, her friends, and students were directed to a reception hall as she was changed out of the heavy layers of clothes. Chatting about the ceremony the crowd went silent as the doors opened and Yukino stepped out. Keeping quiet there was a silent look between the guests wondering who would be the first to greet her.

"Guys you can drop the formalities," her blue eyes looked at the guests. "Tsukiko-jouheika has returned to her chambers she wished to rest her eyes." A wave of understanding spread among the crowd understanding the key difference between the two roles she bore.

"After standing in all those layers it's no wonder." Across the room, Fuyuko spoke first breaking the ice. "Yukino it's good to see you again. We all did." Holding up a glass she motioned to the room. "We're glad our wishes reached you."

"Indeed," the old cheerful man from the Kokuei clan said stepping out from the crowd. "It has also come to my attention that I failed to formally introduce you to Ishi," he motioned to a slim dark-haired woman, her eyes shut as she nodded in Yukino's direction. "ahem."

"..." Letting out a quiet sigh she came out from her place in the shadows and gave a slight bow. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Yukino I hope you enjoyed our gift." Peerless black eyes stared up at her and a thin smile stretched from ear to ear. "I am Ishi, matriarch of the Kinukami." She said holding out a tattooed hand for her to take.

"It's nice to finally meet you." Yukino smiled in return as she saw a spider crawling on the woman's arm and its web-like tattoo. "I've never seen spider silk before so it was a wonderful experience using it." Giving a nod she stepped back and around the old man who introduced her.

"And the young man here is Nobu." The old man smiled pulling out from the crowd a quiet man with wheat gold hair and black eyes.

"Aha… sorry we didn't make our introductions sooner." the man rubbed his neck as the room looked at him. Shrinking her forced his throat to clear up. "I, I'm Nobu, the head of the Sorahane clan… although it's not really a clan, I don't think, I mean we're just twenty people. Ah geez." Sighing from embarrassment he hunched and tried to return to the crowd.

"I appreciated your gift to Nobu-san, Hakaku was a splendid guard."

"I, I'm glad." Giving a brief bow he turned to the crowd uttering a few apologies as he tried to integrate himself into the crowd trying to join his friend the matriarch who was long gone having weaved her way to the back of the room the moment the attention was off her.

With the introductions now out of the way the interest in the conversation between the head of the Kokuei and Yukino had dissipated and everyone returned to their own conversations. "As you can see Ishi, and Nobu are private individuals so I took it upon myself to represent them in our meetings. I'm sorry it took this long for you to find out." Kuraim sighed at having let something important like this slide.

"It's alright I know you didn't mean to hide it on purpose. I appreciate you telling me this."

"Thank you dear, now please relax and enjoy the party." Waving to his daughter on the other side of the room talking to the other young heirs of their respective clans.

Not wanting to ruin the festive atmosphere going on she joined in taking a cup of juice for herself and chatting with her friends and students as well as greeting every guest that had attended for her. Surrounded by the village she created she felt her words ring true, she felt relaxed and at home.

Yukino's POV

With spirits high that night I couldn't bring myself to confess my current state and bring down the mood. Instead, I told everyone to stick around and sober up by tomorrow for a meeting of the heads talking place in the tower at noon.

Now standing outside enjoying the nice breeze I stretched my tired bones ready to return to my apartment and sleep well in my familiar bed.

"Leaving early?"

Letting out a small laugh I turned to Ryota and Emi as they stood outside the door where the party was being held. "Of course, I got my fill. Sleeping in the shrine is well and all but I miss my bed, you know." Immediately their eyes flickered to each other and their postures tensed.

"Yeah… about that. We were hoping to show you earlier but I guess now is as good as any."

"?"

・・・

On the way to my new residence, Emi was kind enough to explain how once the residents in our complex found out their chief was living among them they had grown tense and kindly suggested I live elsewhere. Somewhere with more privacy.

A part of me understood, remembering my living arrangements when I was back in Konoha. If I were given an apartment only to learn that the Hokage was my neighbor I would naturally feel uncomfortable worried that if I accidentally annoyed them on the wrong day they had the power to kick me out. Not that he would but it wasn't something I was willing to test out.

"Here it is!" Looking up at a massive 2 story house I looked around the area to see similar-sized properties in the areas. "I know it's big but that's mostly because there is a training room. There's also a yard for gardening…" As he went around showing me the inside of the house I stared at everything in quiet admiration. Everything was empty save for a few out-of-place furniture pieces, more gifts I assumed.

As Ryota guided me the layout was easy to grasp and I liked the various doors and doorways connecting every other room making navigation easier. There were even small rooms that I could imagine turning into small corners to decompress. Moving onto the second floor there were quite a few rooms and bathrooms. Even though this was the first time I was seeing this it all held a hint of familiarity it was as if my thoughts were taken into account when designing this building. 'How though?' At the snap of a finger, I remembered something small, a flash of drunken memories. 'Among those drawings… so I guess I did do some for a home.'

As the tour went on my attention turned to the frosted windows but before I could look out to the garden I was pulled back to the first floor. As he led the way Emi covered my eyes before we could step onto the engawa.

"Last but not least…" Hearing the doors slide open her hands pulled away and I stared up at the large tree in the center of the garden. "So what do you think?" They both asked with a hint of cheekiness to their voices.

Although I would be perfectly fine with living in the apartments like everyone else I could feel the love poured into every beam of this building. I had already received so much, too much but even so it felt wrong to reject something that took so much time and care to create. "I love it." Was all I could utter as I stared at the scale of it all.

Seeing their smiles I stepped towards the garden and closed my eyes feeling the soft breeze in my hair. With a smile, I turned back to my friends, "Come on you two let's get takeout today too."

・・・

Eyes snapping open I scanned the room before I sat up on my old single bed. Hearing a clock ticking somewhere in the room I got up and out of the bed taking the blanket with me. I didn't have to check to know it was midnight. I knew by now I must've slipped into a slumber and Ryota carried me to my bed as usual.

Now finding myself alone in the large and quiet master bedroom I somehow felt vulnerable even with 4 walls surrounding me. Tip-toeing around the house I made my way down to the first floor and to a sliding door. Opening it to the small room with nothing more than a couple of windows I closed the door behind me, curled up in the center of the room, and stared up at the white ceiling.

I knew the questions that would come my way tomorrow, questions I had prepared on how to answer long ago. Answering about Haruki's parentage was easy what weighed in my mind was the guilt I carried. Had I given Gaara a week there was a chance for him to change his mind which is why I rushed the decision, even if he wanted to change his mind now or make alterations to our agreement he wouldn't even be able to because he wouldn't even have any recollection of the agreement in the first place. I knew he would eventually realize this once returned his memories and with it, my second love would die. Kankuro must've subconsciously felt the unfairness of the sudden choice even so I went along with it. 'All that's left is to deal with the consequences that come.'

As everyone from last night's party filtered into the meeting room, it began to feel more and more like a conference than a simple meeting as everyone claimed their seat favoring the rows towards the back more. The only few who sat in the front were the heads of the Siren and Wolfs, as well as Nori and Kichi. As for my students and teammates, they seemed to be absent most likely getting the news more privately.

As the final few entered and took their seats I stood before the podium and cleared my throat. Having spent my early morning hours practicing I just dropped the bombshell. "If you would all look under your seats." Hearing shuffling as everyone looked and bent down for whatever was there. Seeing a couple of hands pulling out the manilla folder I had stuck under their seats.

Hearing the folders open I took in a deep breath and began to explain. "The first page has details of the germination seal. It is forbidden for the risk it poses to the bearer's health and body. Six years ago I used that seal…" Sensing the 'why?' everyone wanted to ask but didn't say I hoped to hear a page rustle to push me to talk but didn't as everyone waited for my go-ahead. "My team was aware of this fact and even aided me with the seal. At the time my lover had died from illness and I realized not long after I carried a part of them. There is a chance that my child will take after them so I have included a detailed report of the man who was once my lover. I know you will have questions so feel free to ask and I will answer honestly."

Nori and Kichi who sat in the front were surprised at this revelation and Kichi blurted out her thoughts. "You went to war like this!?"

"Yes," I confessed.

Stuttering on her next words her thoughts wouldn't form as Nori quietly collapsed by her side having accepted my risky yet reckless behavior.

Seeing a hand rise my attention turned to the front row where Shimizu, leader of the sirens sat. Her sharp eyes were still on the documents she read. Giving her the floor she spoke what most of the room was thinking. "All this document lists are his records as a shinobi and as a criminal. I will admit it seems he was talented but I can't help but ask if there was more to the story. I remember he visited the island once as your guest. It doesn't make sense for you to put everyone's lives at risk by letting in an S-rank criminal without certainty that they wouldn't bring harm. But that would be contradictory wouldn't it."

As expected of someone in charge of our land's security she quickly caught on to the contradiction. Although she didn't say it everyone in the room knew in some way who he was through the rumors of the Uchiha's downfall.

Taking in a deep breath I confessed the truth not even Konoha had admitted to its citizens. I spilled everything not missing a single detail. From Konoha's souring history with the Uchiha starting with the second Hokage to the failure of the Third to make amends and control Danzo souring things further. To the order and deal that Itachi took at 13 to kill his clan in exchange for his brother being the sole survivor. I even confessed his final secret, that he was a mole for Konoha when he was in the Akatsuki.

As I told all this my eyes looked down at the podium I stood before not wanting to look into the eyes of those in the room as I confessed such a dark secret. Once I was done I could hear the heavy silence as everyone took in this information.

"So they are no different than the other nations." Looking up I saw Fuyuko shake her head in disappointment probably hoping that at least one of the nations wasn't like Kirigakure. "Tell me did they at least plan a coup or was it a decision they woke up one morning to?"

"The Uchiha was planning a coup, they knew this because Itachi was their spy in the clan."

"Then I'm guessing he was his clan's mole too?" Nodding to confirm she rubbed her temples. "Of course he was. There is no better way to gain trust than to make them believe you were on their side." Speaking from what I would believe to be experience I didn't pry. "What about his brother? The survivor? What came of him." She asked and Shimizu kindly answered telling her of whispers she heard of the wandering Uchiha trying to atone for almost killing the Kage before the war. All I heard were some "Good grief" and "Kami help us" from the back of the room from the elders.

"Then it seems the remaining Uchiha bloodline is now held by Uzushio." Kuraim sighed next to Fuyuko. "Dear, even this isolated we have all heard whispers of such a prominent clan's downfall and the story of the crazed man who cut them down. I know this information may seem taboo to those outside but the truth is not news to us at all. Before your child is born it would be best if everyone became aware of the tragedy that befell them to at least spare the child of some of the negativity." Sighing I saw his wrinkled hands wringing nervously, there was more he had to say but he felt the need to be careful with his words.

Kaito noticed and sighed understanding the unspoken worry he had. "Yukino-san, I hope you consider Kuraim's suggestion. At least to remove some of the stigma the Uchiha name bears in case the child is more Uchiha than Uzumaki. "

I admitted I found the suggestion reasonable considering that Sasuke didn't exactly help with the bad reputation that clan name had been carrying the last few years. "Understood, I'll write an article and send it to the local newspaper by the end of the week."

"Why is the Kazekage in the file?" I heard the quiet voice of Inu Kinukami echo from the back. A quiet hush filled the room but it was immediately followed by rustling papers as everyone flipped to look and read the report.

"Ahem, another thing. Please refer to the condition that would break the germination seal." Waiting for them to flip to the correct document I gave the news. "My entanglement with the Kazekage has produced twins. With my first in a couple of months, I will give birth to three children."

"Well, at least that solves the heir issue." I heard a couple of murmurs from the back say. Looking at the crowd the young heirs were watching all this go down with wide eyes as they looked between each other. It was no surprise that had those outside known it would have been the biggest scandal to rock the five nations.

"If I may be blunt," Shimizu spoke up once more. "But is he aware of this?"

"No, we made an arrangement where he would forget, to hide our connection." Hearing the lingering silence I admitted to the other half of the arrangement. "Even though he has forgotten at the moment his brother is aware of the deal as part of our agreement he would be visiting the island. However, I will make sure to severely restrict them to where they are allowed and not an inch more."

"Warn us ahead of time so we could at least station a few people to watch." Kosuke ever so silent finally spoke up from beside Shimizu. "If possible share with us the visitation requests the more we limit the areas they are exposed to the better we can remain in hiding."

"I understand I will send you a list by the end of the week soon." As Shimizu and Kosuke brought up more questions on security the elders at one point got up and left saying, "We old folk will leave this matter to you youngins" Once they left everyone else followed feeling like there was no need for them to remain anymore as security wasn't part of their responsibilities. By the time I got that sorted Nori had finally woken up and we could talk about my recklessness and how Yukino and Tsukiko can explain their children. The answer was simpler than expected.

"Tsukiko and Yukino were blessed with children but to protect them Yukino will be the heir's teacher."

・・・

Looking over my new furniture I began to place things where I thought it would look best but the more I did that the bigger the empty space became. Fixing my little nest of blankets I made a note to get a larger bed soon before the weight of my stomach would trap me to the floor. Shutting the door I walked away to look over the rest of the furniture I had to arrange. With thin chains sprouting from my back I picked up a bookshelf and carried it with me to a spot I found for it.

Gently lowering a large bookshelf into place I heard a quiet knock at the front door. Quietly making my way there I grew confused as I sensed the elders on the other side. Sliding the door open I peeked inside and the group of grannies burst in spouting all sorts of pleasantries. Stunned at their sudden arrival I looked down at my arms and found a bag full of fruits and vegetables. "?"

Hearing another creak from the door I turned to see Ryota's mom taking her shoes off. Glancing at me she rubbed her neck, "Ryota told me a bit about your eating habits, even if you don't feel hungry try to stick to at least 2 full meals a day." Looking a bit flustered she quickly left to join the grannies in the kitchen.

"Pftt…" Stifling a laugh that nearly escaped I didn't see a need for her to be so awkward, Ryota had told me how she had studied to be an obstetrician-gynecologist it was her job but then again it had been a good while since we'd seen each other. 'That's right last time I saw her was when–'

"Oh dear what are you doing at the doorway to come in, now tell us everything has the morning sickness hit yet?" Tsumugi asked her old hands reaching toward me pulled me along gently. Feeling the gentleness in her touch from the countless years she had spent working on the loom I shook my head letting her guide me into the kitchen.

"What about dizziness?" Another asked from the sink as they cleaned the fresh produce they had brought with them.

"You must be getting hungrier nowadays." Another elderly lady asked one I wasn't familiar with but the familiar cold feeling in her hands told me she was from the Yuki clan. Taking the bag of produce she handed me a plate of apple slices shaped into small bunnies. "Eat up I remember how much I craved sweets when I had my son."

"Don't even start Nene-san, my boy had me craving cherries like crazy." As they chatted I took at one of the stools and laughed at the stories these grannies shared. Eating my apple slices in peace the house didn't seem so empty anymore. Remembering my past I felt a bit silly for feeling so alone when the family that raised me was still around and were most likely waiting for me to be ready. 'As if that little chase would ever make me mad at you guys.' Feeling the warm breeze come in from the open kitchen door leading to the engawa I took in this moment engraving it into my memories.

From that day on I was never alone as mentors old and new came by to teach me things I would need. From new recipes, and a new sewing pattern, to even how to navigate motherhood and childbirth. The village I had told Kankuro about as an excuse to let me return turned out to be more kind than expected.

Suddenly the heavy crown I thought I would wear alone didn't feel so heavy anymore.

A/N: Guess what guys I'm back in school so sorry about the slight delay again. Don't worry I'm not repeating a year just furthering my education. Need to do it because my job requires I need a certain amount of credits to get a license.