Chakra Wizard
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And now we get into what I consider Part Three*_* lol And it starts with some nice exchanges before the fighting starts, some of which you probably saw coming and others you probably saw coming by different means. lol Anyways, enjoy
Here’s my previous chapters, for those who missed any:
Chapter 094: The Last Day
The Third Training Ground was once a private area meant to be utilized by single teams of shinobi at a time, its large open space and surrounding tree line making it the perfect spot to practice both stealth and hand-to-hand combat. With war on the horizon, though, it and every other training ground in the Leaf Village was now being used to train several units at once, a particularly vast one just outside its borders being the location where Sarada oversaw the progress of her own regiment. She watched from a distance, her Sharingan active, as teams of shinobi near the wooden posts, in the nearby forest, and scattered across the plains polished up on the jutsu and combat skills they’d been practicing endlessly over the past ten days. She seemed quite pleased with the progress made since then, as did her old teammate watching from afar.
Boruto: They’re looking good!
Thinking him still on Mount Myōboku, Sarada turned around in surprise upon hearing his voice, smiling almost gleefully as he walked up beside her and taking the opportunity to give him the once-over in light of his recent training.
Sarada: They’re not the only ones.
He smiled in amusement as they both turned to watch the training unfolding in front of their eyes, Sarada turning back after a few minutes upon realizing he wasn’t the only one who just returned to the village.
Sarada: So how did their training go?
Boruto: (His expression quickly turned sour as he recalled the events that transpired shortly after their return.) Well…
The village streets were quiet and mostly empty, its typical inhabitants either out training or at home spending time with their families. The main gate was no exception, the guards on the verge of dozing off when a large cloud of smoke suddenly appeared in front of them. They stared into it for several seconds before two figures finally leapt out of it at blinding speeds, revealed to be none other than Manako and Airon, both sporting their newly acquired Sage Mode and facing off with Frog Kata as the latter’s father and siblings watched them in annoyance back in front of the gate.
Inase: Jeez, they’re still at it?
Kei: Yo, guys, slow it down! You’re killin’ us over here!
They were too caught up in their spar to hear them, unfortunately, far too eager to test their new abilities to pay attention to anything else. The improved strength made leaping across half of the village in a single bound a simple task, a feeling Manako might’ve described as walking on air had Airon not been there to mock such ideas.
Airon: Don’t get cocky, Manako!! You’ve got a ways to go before you can do this!!
What followed was an ongoing struggle by Manako to leap over Airon as their brawl ensued, their enhanced chakra supplies making the latter’s air walking technique easier than ever before. Also enhanced, though, was the former’s already unrivalled reflexes, allowing him to grab ahold of Airon’s foot when he attempted to leap higher into the air and spin him around, sending him crashing into the roof of a tall building and sending shingles flying in every direction. The natural endurance provided by Sage Mode made this normally crippling blow little more than an afterthought, but that wasn’t what caused those below to watch with building frustration.
Boruto: Goddamn it. Hey, you two cut it out!
Again too fixated to notice the protests, the duo continued to carry their battle from building to building, leaving steadily increasing damage in their wake each time as those in the streets watched in horror. While Kei and Inase cringed every time a piece of rubble flew through the air, Boruto’s nails continued to sink deeper into his forearms until he finally had enough.
Manako: Is that all you’ve got!?
Airon: I’m glad you asked!!
Boruto: STOOOOOP!!!
The two leapt into the air with the intent of trading punches, only to use Body Flicker and Flying Raijin to quickly return to the ground as a large Rasenshuriken came flying between them. They immediately turned and looked off in the distance towards the main gate, where Boruto still stood, only then witnessing the amount of destruction left in the wake of their brawl.
Sarada listened in silence at her old teammate’s recollection, her eyes growing wider all the while, not a single viable response coming to mind by the time he finished.
Sarada: …Wow…
Boruto: …Yeah…
Sarada: …Are they reconstructing?
Boruto: I told them to do it themselves. They had a good pace going when I decided to stop by.
Sarada: Well…that’s good, I guess.
Boruto: Yeah…
They turned back to watch their forces’ progress in the distant training ground, not another word exchanged between them. Boruto crossed his arms and scanned the area with his new eyes, using the opportunity to test their range, while Sarada stood beside him with her arms behind her back, smiling almost sensually as she pivoted her hips gently from side to side.
Sarada: You’re gonna spend the night with your family?
Boruto: (He looked at her out of the corner of his eye in a matter-of-fact manner.) Yeah, of course.
Sarada: Alright…we’ll have more time to ourselves later, then.
She removed her glasses and casually walked behind him as she said this, running her hand across his back before resting her head atop his shoulder. As she tried to wrap her arm around him, though, he swiped her hand away as his eyebrows began to sink.
Boruto: Not happening.
Sarada: (She pouted her lips and rubbed against him as she wrapped her arms around his chest.) Oh, why do you have to be like that? Didn’t you say you planned to always protect me from the shadows?
Boruto: (He flexed his shoulders in an effort to shrug her off, growing more annoyed by the second.) And what’s that have to do with this? Hey, knock it off!
Sarada: (She smirked in amusement, placing her mouth beside his ear as her hands began hovering over his chest.) Why fight it? It’s gonna happen soon anyway-
Boruto: No, it’s NOT!! God, what the hell kind of Hokage do you plan to be, anyways!? You can’t even be a good wife when you want to!
He grabbed her wrist and forcefully pulled her off, but she was much too stunned by his outburst to stop him. She just stood there, staring blankly at him with her mouth slightly open, reflecting silently on what he said. When nearly a minute passed without her saying anything, he finally rubbed his eyes and turned to explain himself.
Boruto: Sarada, we talked about this, alright? I’ve already ruined one marriage cause of us. I’m not doing that to Inoue and I like Tamanoko too much to let you screw things up with him, too.
The mentioning of her husband’s name was more than enough to stop any further advances on Sarada’s part, and she proceeded to leave the area with her head hung low. This wasn’t without making her future intentions known, though.
Sarada: I’m sorry…I can’t help that you’re so good.
She walked away with a smirk, knowing without turning her head or using her Sharingan that that final remark got his attention. True enough, Boruto watched as she left, noting the strut in her step, before turning back around and dragging his hand across his face, not looking forward to the days to come.
With the majority of qualified shinobi out in the fields, the streets of the village were busier than ever, civilians and shinobi on break from their training walking in and out of shops and pubs at a restless pace. While some gathered ingredients for their final meals of the night in the former and others drowned their worries in the latter, Kei stood amongst it all, dressed in his usual attire with his gray sweatshirt zipped up to hide his mesh armor, arms crossed and a drop of sweat trickling down his face as he awaited Kūrogane’s arrival. After a few minutes, she finally emerged from the crowded streets, his face immediately turning red at the sight of her crimson ruffle skirt and shoulderless white blouse, something she picked up on and giggled at under her breath.
Kūrogane: I’m gonna go out on a limb and say you’re not a fan of casual wear.
Kei: (He gave himself the once-over before looking back at her in a perplexed manner.) I just like my normal clothes. What’s wrong with that?
Kūrogane: Hmhmhm, I didn’t say there was. …So where are the others?
Kei: (His eyes widened in a minor panic, having forgotten to think of an excuse as to why they were hanging out alone today.) Oh, uh…well, most of them called in about wanting to be with their families, I guess. Except Chan, y’know. Training nut and all that, hehe.
Kūrogane: (Seeing through his rouse immediately, she smiled in amusement and raised an eyebrow to question him.) And you didn’t?
Kei: (He scratched the back of his head as if in thought, wiping away the sweat pouring down his neck as he did.) Well…I’ve got the whole night to spend with them. I figured the afternoon I could spend with whoever I wanted. …So you wanna just do something alone? Since the others didn’t make it?
Kūrogane: (She placed a finger to her chin as if contemplating the idea, though only as an attempt to toy with him.) Hmmm…well, I guess I could stay out a few hours, since I already made the plans.
Kei: (He clasped his hands together and grinned profusely.) Okay! Awesome!
He turned red again in light of his failure to contain his excitement, but quickly let the moment pass when Kūrogane showed no issue with it and proceeded to lead the way through the crowded streets. In light of current events, several stands housing treats of various kinds were staged throughout the village, gifts to the shinobi that would not be there to enjoy them the next day. Kei was quick to take them all up on their generosity, at one point carrying three different sugary concoctions in each hand while Kūrogane walked beside him and watched in amusement, only a small candy apple to satisfy her cravings. This one-sidedness carried over to their choice of dining, as well – barbeque, as per Kei’s insistence – where he quickly devoured six plates of meat while Kūrogane sat there after completing her first and only, his negligence forcing her to pay half of the bill to compensate for his own depleted funds. The movie screening that followed was also one of his choosing – though she admittedly insisted on this – and the two sat in the mostly empty theater for nearly two hours without a word, Kūrogane occasionally looking over and giggling at the sight of him gorging on the popcorn that she also paid for. The silence persisted as they left and during the first ten minutes of their walk through the village, until Kūrogane finally expressed her thoughts upon noticing the descending sun.
Kūrogane: Well…that was surprisingly entertaining.
Kei: Hehe, yeah! That movie was awesome, wasn’t it!?
Kūrogane: (She feigned annoyance, answering him with a slight nod before looking around at where they were.) So what was your next move…taking me to one of these?
She nodded her head towards the building beside them, prompting Kei to stare at it in confusion for the longest time. His eyes eventually expanded when he realized that it was a love hotel – and that they were walking right in the middle of a red light district.
Kei: Holy shit!! Oh my god, I’m sorry! So sorry, Kūrogane! I didn’t realize where we were! Sorry!
Kūrogane: (She motioned for him to calm down as she held her other hand over her mouth to hide her laughter.) Hmhmhmhm, it’s fine, Kei, it’s fine. I figured you were dozing off. …Probably a sign that it’s time to head home.
Kei: (He glanced up at the sun in response to this statement, taking out his phone and noting with both surprise and disappointment that it was already past six o’clock.) Oh, uh…yeah. Yeah, I guess it is.
He looked back up to say something else, but words quickly failed him as his gaze aligned with Kūrogane’s blemishless face. This was the moment he’d been waiting for all afternoon, the reason he brought her out here on the final day before the call to war – on the grounds of a lie, no less – and he could not bring himself to speak his mind, nor his heart. Kūrogane, too, seemed to be anticipating something more from him before their farewells for the night, but when nothing came, she merely smiled in silent acceptance.
Kūrogane: Well, thanks for the night out. It was a breath of fresh air, at the very least.
Kei: (He returned the gratitude with a nod, his smile slowly vanishing as she turned to walk away.) Glad I could help…uh, Kūrogane!
He gulped what air was in his mouth as his face once again turned red, briefly forgetting that she had only walked twenty feet or so. Kūrogane expressed surprise of her own at the sudden outburst, both in her expression and promptness when turning back around.
Kūrogane: Yeah?
Kei: …Don’t get yourself killed out there!
Kūrogane: (Half-expecting this, she smiled after a moment and shook her head in amusement.) …Alright. You do the same, then!
Kei: I will!
Kūrogane turned back around and continued walking with her smile still etched across her face, but it quickly disappeared as she stepped out of his range of audibility, faintly hearing his aggravated murmuring before he, too, began walking home. She spun around once to ensure this was the case, heaving a sigh of disappointment before reaching into her bag for her cigarettes, lighting one up before moving along.
As Kūrogane sped through the streets back to her home, off in the distance, Airon and Manako – along with their numerous clones – continued to repair the damage caused during their return to the village, the former repairing shingles while the latter mended slight dints left in the concrete walls. The work was not so much strenuous as it was expansive, and at long last, they both collapsed on the roof of the final building that required their attention.
Manako: Phew, some way to spend your last day, huh?
Airon: (He twirled his hammer around one of his fingers as he stared up at the sky.) Pssh, no kidding. …Who started that fight again?
Manako: Well, you. Obviously.
Airon: Yeah, sure I did. …Ass.
Manako: Hole.
Neither one looked at the other as they exchanged insults, but they quickly began laughing in spite of themselves. When the hilarity finally cooled down, the realization that the rest of the day was theirs finally came.
Airon: You spending the rest of the day with your dad?
Manako: Probably. Don’t know who else I’m gonna spend it with.
Airon: (He glanced over at him with a playful smirk.) You’re not gonna call up Sabure and spend some time talking to her?
Manako: (He continued looking up at the sky and smiled as he considered the idea, knowing full well that Airon was hoping to get some embarrassment out of him.) I might…if you spend time with Nakama.
He turned his head to bring Airon into his field of vision, grinning at the sight of him hiding his now flustered expression.
Manako: (Aww, what happened? Did mean old Manako just flip your plan over on its ass?)
Airon: (He gave him the finger as he struggled to regain his composure.) (It’s our last day. Mom’s gonna wanna spend it with all of us…and by that, I mean our original selves, not some clone.)
Manako: (Who’s gonna know the difference?)
Airon: (Well, Inase, for one.)
Manako: (And you think she’s gonna tell?)
Airon: (No, but I don’t need any of her taunting, either.)
Manako: (…Come on, Airon, you’re gonna need a better excuse than that.)
Airon shot him a brief look of denial, though his mind continued to affirm his attempts to avoid the subject. Manako knew this, as well – Airon’s mind contained far too many barriers to surpass with a quick scan, but with their bond as strong as it was, reading it was practically unnecessary.
Manako: (Airon, you’re my cousin and my closest friend, so for the love of God, don’t hold this off any longer. …I might just have to kick your ass for it.)
Airon glanced over at him with a smirk, but his thoughts were anything but cheerful. The past few weeks aside, the prospect of asking Nakama out had been on his mind for the last few years alone. Every time he found an opportunity to do so, though, he was overcome by fear. Manako realized this long ago, but Airon was quick to discredit his beliefs as to where that fear originated.
Airon: (She’s like my little sister, Manako. We spent a few years living in the same house, for God sakes. …I dunno, it’s just not a relationship I’m all that willing to change into…something else.)
Manako: (He looked away and thought over this reasoning for a moment, bobbing his head in mild understanding.) (Yeah, well…step siblings have been known to…you know…)
He swung his head out of the way as a hammer came flying towards it, sending him into a brief fit of laughter that even Airon was hesitant to join. When it ended, Manako stood up to leave, intent on actually making the most of his last day in the village.
Manako: (Hey, even if that’s the case, you should still spend one more day with her and hang out at the very least. …Maybe you won’t think more of it, but I know it’ll mean the world to her.)
Airon spent a moment contemplating this, but he quickly looked up when he deciphered the hidden meaning behind his wording, prompting Manako to flash a wicked grin as he leapt to the nearest rooftop.
Manako: (Hey, you were the one who promised never to read her mind, Romeo. I never promised a damn thing.)
Airon stood up as he sped away, seeing him off before turning and looking in the opposite direction, where he knew Nakama’s home awaited. He looked several degrees to the right soon after, in the direction of his own house, looking between the two for the longest time before heaving a sigh and taking off towards the latter.
The war did not officially begin for another three days, but caution was already a strong priority. Departing for another country with their forces in their entirety, an ambush was well within the range of possibilities, especially when considering how little was known about their enemy’s leader. As the newly declared commander of the entire alliance, thinking through this likelihood was Shikamaru’s chore to bear, though he was helped by his wife, son, and two brothers-in-law, the latter’s presence made possible through a live feed from the computer sitting in his home office.
Gaara: I’m still not entirely convinced, though. It would be the perfect opportunity.
Shikamaru: Perhaps, but Otori doesn’t strike me as a man who would break his word. Our forces should be fine during the journey.
Kankurō: Either way, we should both prepare for the worst. Remember, on some level, these enemies of ours plotted the murders of our Kage. I wouldn’t be surprised if their tricks just got dirtier from there.
Gaara: …And that includes using the assassin in a sneak attack.
Silence ensued as Shikamaru reminisced on this possibility, not having forgotten for a second that the man or woman who killed their enemies’ predecessors undoubtedly worked for them and continued to do so. His history as a brilliant strategist was known across the great nations, though, and he simply smiled in reassurance and held up a small map in front of the camera transmitting their own live feed.
Shikamaru: I don’t doubt that being a possibility. …But that’s why we’re using these alternate routes prepared by Shikadai and I. Even if he does realize we aren’t using the paths generally associated with travelling to the Land of Iron, how long would it take for him to determine our real location?
Temari: (She looked at the two of them with nostalgic admiration.) They thought of everything. We’ll make it to the Land of Iron, no trouble whatsoever.
The others nodded in agreement, the still skeptical Gaara included, before recalling that, in fact, only four of them would actually be travelling to the Land of Iron.
Shikamaru: I don’t suppose there’s any chance of changing your mind, Kankurō.
Kankurō: (He heaved a sigh and shook his head.) Huhhh, I can’t. Too old. Plus, I’m not smart enough to just sit around headquarters giving orders like you and Temari.
Gaara: But you are smart enough to realize that.
The subtle insult was amusing enough on its own, but the identity of its proprietor, who was infamous for his rare transitions into humor, sent everyone into a brief fit of laughter, including the victim of the assault. As it ended, the time was quickly noted and Shikamaru looked out the window to see that the sun was at a similar position in the afternoon sky.
Shikamaru: Well, we should probably let you go. We have three full days ahead of us and we all need our rest.
Gaara: (He nodded in understanding, turning his attention to his sister before reaching out to touch the monitor of his own computer.) Then I’ll see you then. …Be safe, Temari.
Temari: (She smiled gently and reached out to do the same.) …You, too.
The screen went black soon after, Temari’s smile quickly replaced by a look of fear as the mood in the room followed suit. Shikamaru’s wrapped his hand around her in reassurance and seeing this, their son smiled and stood up, placing his hand on her shoulder, as well.
Shikadai: There’s no way Uncle Gaara’s gonna have anything bad happen to him. …He is a legend, after all.
Shikamaru: (He looked up at him with a smile, proud to see him looking out for his mother’s feelings.) …Yeah. That’s true.
Shikadai left the room, but neither Temari’s face nor her mindset changed in the slightest. Shikamaru simply squeezed her tighter, unable to hide his fear that in spite of all his careful planning, something in the coming days would go horribly wrong.
In a large estate near the center of the village, the Sarutobi clan prepared heavily for the battles to come, a massive feast having been prepared to account for the past several days spent training and as a worthy send-off for those leaving tomorrow before dawn. Those who didn’t take part in the gathering were with their loved ones, using what precious time they had left to its fullest extent, and Konohamaru’s descendants fell into this category. With Suzaku and Ayumi inside, it fell upon Minto and Raiden to preoccupy their new little sister, who sat on Minto’s knee as he in turn sat on a large stump, watching as Raiden showed off his skill with shuriken on a distant tree.
Raiden: You see that, Bachiko!?
Bachiko: (She smiled gleefully and clapped her hands.) That was awesome, Brother!
He returned her smile and continued his display of technique, her enthusiasm growing with each shuriken thrown as Minto’s annoyance did the same. He managed to put up with it for some time, though, until a quick glance from Raiden prompted him to roll his eyes and set her down beside him.
Minto: Huhhh, alright. Sit up here, Bachiko, and I’ll show you how it’s done.
Raiden paid no mind and continued throwing shuriken, forcing Minto to push him aside as he unveiled one of his Shock Lashes, twirling it around several times before swinging it forward with a loud crack, slicing the tree clean in half in an instant.
Bachiko: Wow! That was so cool, Big Brother!
Minto smiled back at her before cocking an eyebrow in Raiden’s direction, expecting him to notice the additional word, as well. Hands stuffed in his pockets with an unimpressed look, Raiden just shook his head and reached into his bag.
Raiden: Uh-huh. Well, here. Let me show you something else.
He pulled out a large Fūma Shuriken as Minto and Bachiko looked on, unfolding it slowly and taking a moment to perfect his stance before throwing it into the large field near their home. Its close proximity to the ground helped it to slice through the tall blades of grass with extreme accuracy, its trajectory allowing it to cut a fair portion of it down to size before returning to his hand. Bachiko was as ecstatic as ever, with even Minto unable to hide being mildly impressed with the feat.
Minto: Alright, fine. But can you do this?
Retrieving his second Shock Lash, he leapt into the center of the field and immediately began spinning around as he slowly knelt to the ground, increasing their length as he went until he formed a large circle of low-cut grass. He followed up with his usual trick of twirling the Lashes in the air in a corkscrew-like fashion, steadily moving one directly in front of Bachiko to show his complete control over their movements.
Bachiko: Whoa!
He quickly pulled back as she attempted to reach out and touch it, smiling and shaking his head at her to convince her this was the best idea. In response, Raiden reached for another large shuriken, wrapping a long string through its center before using it to mimic Minto’s actions, spinning the shuriken through the air like a pinwheel. He quickly learned to do it properly, but he was quickly stopped by a familiar voice as he tried moving it closer to Bachiko.
Suzaku: HEY!!
Both the Lashes and the shuriken quickly plummeted to the ground, their users lowering their heads as their father ran out of the house, snatching up Bachiko and staring back at them with fiery eyes.
Suzaku: What the heck is wrong with you two!? You’re supposed to be sitting down watching your sister, not trying to get her hurt on the sidelines! …You okay, sweetie?
Not fazed by the potential danger she was in whatsoever, she simply replied with a large smile, one Suzaku returned as he walked back into the house, though before Raiden could lift his head up slightly to watch him leave.
Raiden: Maybe if you and Mom had finished earlier…
Suzaku didn’t turn around, but the fact that he briefly stopped walking was enough to make it clear to his sons that his face was beet-red.
Minto: That’s…painfully embarrassing.
Raiden: (He paid little attention to him as he picked up his shuriken, refolding it and tucking back into his bag before heading inside.) No more than YOU trying to upstage me.
With little time at his disposal to retaliate, Minto merely heaved a sigh and grabbed his weapons, stashing them away in their holsters before following them inside. Dinner was served early to give their family enough time alone with one another, though this in essence meant the five of them were sat in the living room, Minto in the recliner and Raiden laid out across the sofa, while Suzaku sat on the loveseat with Ayumi in his arms as Bachiko rested against her side. This went on silently for thirty minutes until Suzaku’s drowsiness suddenly vanished, his face turning pink in response to the hand working its way between his legs. He glanced over at his sons, relieved to find neither of them paying attention before standing up as Ayumi held Bachiko and rested her back down on the seat.
Suzaku: Uhhh, me and Mommy are gonna go to bed now, okay, baby? You just sit out here with your brothers and try to fall asleep.
Bachiko: (She let out a long yawn in response.) …Okay.
He didn’t even have time to adjust her blanket before he was dragged off by Ayumi, Raiden watching stealthily as they walked into the hallway and gagging once they were out of sight.
Raiden: Ugh, I’m gonna be sick.
Minto: (He smirked in amusement and shook his head, looking over at the hallway entrance as he replied.) We’re leaving tomorrow. She just wants to spend as much time with him as she can. …If you had a girlfriend, you’d understand.
Raiden: Pssh, you’re one to talk.
He glanced over at their sister as the remark left his lips, instantly standing up and walking over to her when he saw that she wasn’t fully wrapped in her blanket. She smiled up at him and let out another yawn as he tucked her in, and he couldn’t help but smile back.
Raiden: You’re lookin’ kinda sleepy there, huh, Bachiko?
Bachiko: (She nodded drowsily as he slid one of the couch pillows beneath her head.) …Could you sing to me, Brother?
Raiden slowly turned to face Minto, who was staring back in amusement and motioning for him to proceed. Begrudgingly, he granted her request and began singing softly into her ear. The effects quickly became evident as her head sunk further into the pillow, and to Minto’s surprise, the sight wasn’t nearly as amusing as it was heartwarming, though that didn’t stop him from grinning wickedly as Raiden turned back around.
Raiden: Shut up.
Minto: (He held up his hand to protest his innocence.) I didn’t say anything. …I just think you found your strength.
Raiden: And what’s that supposed to mean?
Minto: (He smile slowly vanished as he looked away, his eyes stopping on their newest family portrait hanging above the television.) …You’re better at being a big brother than you are at being a little brother.
Raiden eventually waved this off with a matter-of-fact expression, but the thought persisted in Minto’s mind as he stood up, gazing back over at him once more before walking into the kitchen for a drink.
Minto: Maybe that’s the way it should’ve been.
He grabbed some ice cubes from the freezer and threw them into his glass before filling it to the brim with tap water, drinking it slowly to allow the coldness to take effect before dumping it out and setting in the dishwasher. When this was done, he turned off the kitchen lights and retired to his bedroom for the night, with Raiden not taking his eyes off of him the entire time. He glanced up at the portrait once he was gone, noting their positions on opposite sides of the portrait before heaving a sigh of his own. He picked up Bachiko and carried her back to her room, smiling as she wrapped her arms around his neck, the image was still fresh on his mind as he laid her down on her bed and returned to his own.
Lights went out across the rest of the village as the sun disappeared from the sky, unease drifting through the streets as many families kissed their loved ones goodnight for what could possibly be the last time. From atop the Academy building, Naruto and Sasuke looked on as this all transpired, their wives watching alongside them as the chirps of the evening crickets filled the air, the youngest of the four noting that even their noise was virtually blocked out by the lingering tension.
Hinata: It’s so quiet.
Sakura: (She nodded in agreement.) But not exactly calm.
Naruto: (He squeezed Hinata’s hand, smiling in mild reassurance.) There’s a lot to be nervous about…but that’s what the last night’s for. Giving each other that needed comfort.
Sasuke: (Still mourning the news of his old teammate’s death, he clenched his fist as he looked off towards the darkening horizon.) …The war shouldn’t last long. Our forces are larger and stronger than ever, even with their homeland advantages…and you and I are taking part in the fighting, too.
Naruto: …I’m not so sure we’ll make that big a difference this time, Sasuke.
Both Hinata and Sakura glanced up at him in surprise, even the normally impassive Sasuke unable to hide his shock at the doubt expressed by his typically assertive rival.
Hinata: Naruto…
Sakura: How could your powers not make a difference? Kaguya, Toneri, Momoshiki and Kinshiki…all those shinobi from the Ōtsutsuki clan that we’ve managed to defeat.
Sasuke: And not to mention Madara Uchiha…I’m sorry, Naruto, but what makes you think anyone in this day and age could possibly pose a greater threat than any of them?
Naruto: (Images of Otori and Dageki flashed through his mind as he attempted to explain himself.) …I don’t know. That one guy at the summit, though…maybe I didn’t see enough of the jutsu to really know, but I just can’t get it out of my head.
Sasuke: (He thought for a moment about the “white lightning”, too, eventually turning back to him with his self-assurance fully restored.) …I have the Rinnegan and the Mangekyō Sharingan. And you have Kurama. …Whatever it is, we’ll find a way to overcome it, no matter what.
Naruto: …Yeah…you’re right.
Even as he said it, though, his grip on Hinata’s hand just continued to grow stronger. An untraceable assassin, a flesh-dissolving jutsu, and the ability to sway three of the great villages to work towards his goals, Otori had everything he needed to start this war – and Naruto couldn’t shake the feeling that he had everything in place to end it, too.
With just hours remaining before shinobi were forced to leave their families, couples across the village used this night to consummate their love, as Suzaku and Ayumi had so recklessly hinted to their sons. The Uchiha household was no exception, and with both Akame and Katsuto fast asleep – at least to their knowledge – Sarada and her husband sought out to make the most of their last night in the same bed.
Tamanoko: Phew, so ends round three. …Huhhh, what’s gotten into you tonight?
Sarada: (She rolled off of him with her energy depleted, breathing heavily as the ceiling fan worked to remove the sweat sticking to her entire body.) Huhhh…huhhh, what? It’s our last night together for a while. …Huhhh, I can’t make use of you while I’m still here?
Tamanoko: (He managed a grin as she crept up and planted a kiss on his chin, proceeding to wrap his arm around her and pull her closer.) Huhhh…huhh, alright. Fair enough.
As a non-shinobi, and not gifted with her same level of endurance, Tamanoko fell asleep shortly afterwards. Still awake and not quite satisfied herself, Sarada sat up and walked over to their bathroom to splash water onto her face. She sat on the toilet, still exhausted from their previous consummation, and allowed herself the chance to cool off. As she sat there, she looked up at her husband, sleeping soundly in their bed after what was no doubt a satisfying night for him. She could only look for ten seconds before she was forced to bow her head, unable to face the fact that the entire night they were together, she was thinking of someone else.
Midnight was just beyond the horizon, but with tensions high as they ever were, more than a few individuals and families remained awake well into the night. Among them was the Namikaze household, in the living room of which sat the family in question. In the armchair perched Airon, while on the adjacent sofa slouched Kei and Inase, all of them with boredom on their minds, but neither the exhaustion to sleep nor the dispassion to voice these feelings to their parents, who sat with their arms around one another on the nearby loveseat. Boruto stared directly ahead, something clearly on his mind, while Inoue rested against him with concern in her eyes, an occasional sigh or shiver prompting him to look down at her and smile with reassurance.
Boruto: It’s alright…we’ve still got the whole night together.
Inoue: (She smiled back up at him and took ahold of his hand before glancing over at their children.) You three doing alright? You haven’t said much…out loud.
Airon: (He smiled in amusement.) We’re not saying a thing, Mom. I promise you.
Kei: (He leaned back in his seat and rubbed his stomach.) Yeah. I’m still digesting over here.
Inase: Yeah, dinner was awesome, Mom.
Inoue: Hmhm, it’s your last night. You should be entitled to a good dinner now and a great breakfast in the morning.
Airon: (He sarcastically raised an eyebrow.) You seem pretty choked up about it.
Inoue: (She merely smiled and shook her head.) You’re your father’s children. And his father’s grandchildren. …If I have any doubts about you, it’s whether or not you three won’t show off while you’re out there.
Inase: (She glared back in mild irritation.) And why are you including me in that?
Kei: AND me! It’s only this numbskull who can’t just do something right and not show off doing it!
From the look on his face, the sudden accusation caught Airon off guard, though he quickly shook his head in amusement and resumed staring out the window, garnering everyone’s attention in the process.
Boruto: Something else on your mind, Airon?
Airon: …I guess you could say that.
Inoue: You can go see her if you want, hon. …None of us will stop you.
Airon was fully prepped to disregard such an assumption, but when he turned to face her, he suddenly found himself at a loss for words as every set of eyes in the room locked onto him. Every one of them had been thinking the exact same thing – and he was rightfully embarrassing for not realizing how obvious he made it to them.
Airon: I…I wasn’t-
Boruto: Airon, just go. It’s alright. …She needs the company way more than we do.
Fighting the urge to look at his siblings’ no-doubt toothy grins, he continued to stare back and forth between his parents’ smiling faces, surprised and amazed that they felt so comfortable letting him go on their last night together. Hesitant as he was, though, he eventually smiled and nodded in gratitude, disappearing in a small puff of smoke seconds later.
Kei: What the hell!?
Boruto: (He smiled widely in amusement and shook his head.) Huhhh, why am I not surprised? …Did you know, Inase?
Inase: (She confirmed this with a smirk, tapping her finger against the side of her head in reference to her telepathy.) I’ve been making fun of him this whole time.
Boruto: Hmhmhm, that a girl.
The following day would mark the end of a long and prosperous era, an event marked in return by a large and beautiful full moon. The light it cast upon the quiet village gave it a serene beauty that rivalled its daytime glory, and no more evident was this than on the surface of the river that coursed through it. Perhaps it was for this reason that Airon headed there first instead of to Nakama’s home, knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that she wouldn’t miss seeing it for the world. As was usually the case, his instincts proved correct.
Airon: Even this late at night? Come on, the river’s not that pretty.
He chuckled softly in amusement as he walked up behind her, having found her sitting on the grassy slope overlooking the river, legs curled up and her arms wrapped around them to defend against the coolness of the night. She casually looked over her shoulder to greet him, smiling gently at the sight of him, but clearly disappointed with the time of his arrival.
Nakama: Took you long enough.
Airon: (He smirked unapologetically and plopped down beside her.) You could’ve come over to me or Minto’s, you know. I don’t think either of us would’ve minded having you over.
Nakama: (She meagerly shook her head.) I didn’t wanna be a hindrance.
Airon: Hehe, hindrance to what? We were just sitting on a couch saying nothing until I finally left.
Nakama: (She lowered her head, gradually making it obvious that she was hiding her real reasoning.) …I just wanted to be with my thoughts is all.
Airon: Is that why you’re not shooing me away now?
She lifted her feet and pivoted in the other direction in an attempt to feign offense, an attempt Airon might’ve let slip by without laughing if he hadn’t known her so well.
Airon: Sorry about earlier today. …I promised we would do something once I got back.
Nakama: (She smirked and shook her head.) It doesn’t matter. …What was there to do, anyways?
Airon: (He shrugged his shoulders.) Ehhh, I dunno. I guess they had some decent stands out earlier. I’m not much of a movie guy, sooo…I dunno. Something.
Nakama: (She turned to face him.) Some something.
Airon: Well, hey, I never said I was a genius at everything.
Nakama: I think you have.
Airon: Really? I don’t recall that.
Nakama: I’m pretty sure you have.
Airon: Alright, fine. Have it your way.
Airon took a moment to revel in the hilarity, but Nakama seemed content with sitting there and listening to his laughter instead of joining in it. There was a sense of urgency in her face and sorrow in her eyes that grew stronger with each passing second, the sight of which quickly brought Airon out of his trance, having never seen such emotion from her under such casual circumstances.
Nakama: Well, if I’m having it my way…you think you could just walk me home, then?
She stood up as she spoke, waiting for him to follow suit as she waited with her arms crossed to shield herself from the cold. The longing from before persisted, and Airon was practically forced to his feet to appease her.
Airon: Of course. …And put this on, too. Jeez, it must be fifty degrees out here.
He took off his jacket and placed it over her shoulders, and she quickly wrapped herself in it and looked up at him in gratitude, a gesture he returned with a smile before stuffing his hands in his pockets and starting the long walk to her home. The streets were empty and silent, as were they, and it became clearer as the minutes ticked by that only a few hours remained between then and the departure of their forces. For Airon, this was a senseless issue – he was an insomniac as he was, especially in the wake of his recent nightmares – but the concern was there for Nakama to get the sleep she needed for tomorrow’s journey. He was ready to recommend use of her earth-manipulating abilities to hurry the walk along, or perhaps even his Flying Raijin – he had visited her home enough times to be confident a seal was still lying around there somewhere – but the look on her face stole the words away before he could say them. She knew the options available to them, and she knew that every minute they were out would only make her more hesitant to wake in a few hours, but she honestly didn’t care. Airon gazed off in the direction of Manako’s house, knowing now that he was right – spending these last few moments with him really did mean the world to her. This brought the gentlest of smiles to his face just as her small apartment complex came into full view, prompting him to take her hand as he recalled the seal laid out right outside her front door. He grinned with amusement as they made the four hundred-meter leap through space and time, but what he found when he turned to face her was neither gratitude nor annoyance, or even disappointment for that matter. It actually bore a stronger resemblance to anxiety, the kind one felt right before giving an onstage performance, but he still couldn’t tell why without reading her mind, something they both knew he would never do. Instead, he stepped forward to open the door when she hesitated to do so herself, displaying her home to her with an outstretched arm in an almost butler-esque fashion.
Airon: Your humble abode, I presume.
Her preoccupied mind aside, she managed the soft smile he was looking for as she stepped inside, slipping off his jacket and returning it to him before she unzipped her own coat.
Nakama: You think you could turn around for a moment? …I need to change into my pajamas.
Airon: (Put off by the sudden request, his face turned pink and he immediately spun around to face the door.) …Uh, yeah. Yeah, sure. (She still wears pajamas?)
As a highly skilled shinobi and a recently graduated Sage, his ears quickly became his greatest enemy in his attempts block out his thoughts of Nakama changing right behind him. Perhaps it was ironic, then, that the moment he caved and let them in was when they disappeared completely, replaced by the sudden realization that they were still in the main room of her house, over a hundred feet away from her dresser or her clothes. He instantly stiffened up in reaction, becoming unresponsive to everything – including her.
Nakama: Okay…you can look now.
It was said with the same level of candor and innocence he had come to always expect of her, but he couldn’t bring himself to move, not when he knew what she was really trying to do. When he didn’t take the initiative, she finally heaved a sigh and walked up behind him, resting her head against his shoulders as his back straightened out, along with every hair on his body.
Nakama: You came out to find me tonight.
Airon: (His unease soon faded and was replaced by remorse.) …I was spurred on.
Nakama: Manako?
Airon: (He gave the feeblest nod in confirmation.) And my parents…but…I dunno, maybe I intended to from the start.
Nakama: …Then why was I waiting so long?
Airon: …I thought you would already be home and asleep.
Nakama: Liar.
Airon’s guilt rose another level, and he cursed himself for it. He neither needed to read her mind nor turn around to know the disappointment she felt knowing he was keeping things from her, something he explicitly promised her he’d never do. But how could he, though? How could he tell her that the feelings she wanted him to return so badly didn’t exist, at least not in the form she was hoping? He had tried to. Many times, he had tried to envision her as someone with whom he could not only share his secrets, but also his love, life, perhaps even children. No matter how hard he tried, though, it always came back to the same unwavering image he’d had of her since childhood. She was his little sister, plainest and simple – and he would rather break the heart of a potential lover than break a promise to her.
Airon: Because I knew you’d bear no ill feelings towards me if I decided to spend tonight with my family, and because you knew I’d never do anything that might hurt you without a reason. …We’ve had that shared understanding since the day we met. …Everything about our relationship just seemed perfect to me…and I didn’t want to change that.
She took a step back as he finally turned around, hesitating to open his eyes until he reminded himself once again that she was family. To his relief, she was still afraid to remove her panties and her long hair fell over her breasts to conceal them, as well, but the sadness that filled her watering eyes was what prompted him to look away in self-disgust, ashamed at himself for putting her through this heartbreak for the sake of his own integrity.
Airon: I still don’t.
She nodded feebly in understanding and stared down at the floor in disappointment for the longest time, half-expecting such an answer considering how long she’d waited for him to make the first move. This sadness at being turned down gradually converted to anger at being led on for so many years, until she finally looked back up at him with her fists clenched and a single tear in each eye.
Nakama: Then stop talking and just stand there. …I’ve waited too long for my turn to be selfish.
His eyes widened with surprise as she stepped out of the moonlight shining through her window, shrouding both of them in darkness. His stance directly in front of the door made backing away pointless, and even if he had all the space in the world to do so, he wasn’t sure if he could. This was her final stand, her last-ditch effort to gain his affection, by force if not willingly. And he couldn’t help but feel cornered, dreading the inevitable possibility that by turning her away now, he would forever damage the bond they’ve shared for the past twelve years. So he didn’t.
Airon: Okay.
This was his solution, his only means of keeping her close and preserving her happiness, all he really wanted in the end. She was his little sister, but if that’s what it took to preserve their bond, he would readily throw aside his own feelings to become something that suited hers. Nakama’s hands unfurled and she slowly walked back into the moonlight, a silent beckoning for him to follow. His heart now hers to command, he stepped forward without question, just far enough so that the light from the window illuminated his face. She reached out to caress his cheek, and he did hers, one last gesture inducing him to kneel down to bring his face to the same level as her own. The hesitation that followed was mutual – it was a first time for them both – until finally, their lips parted and closed around one another, the shadows of the room hiding Airon’s still quivering form from view.
Confessions are made and lines are drawn as the final day comes to an end!!!
The End
Here’s my previous chapters, for those who missed any:
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Chapter 094: The Last Day
The Third Training Ground was once a private area meant to be utilized by single teams of shinobi at a time, its large open space and surrounding tree line making it the perfect spot to practice both stealth and hand-to-hand combat. With war on the horizon, though, it and every other training ground in the Leaf Village was now being used to train several units at once, a particularly vast one just outside its borders being the location where Sarada oversaw the progress of her own regiment. She watched from a distance, her Sharingan active, as teams of shinobi near the wooden posts, in the nearby forest, and scattered across the plains polished up on the jutsu and combat skills they’d been practicing endlessly over the past ten days. She seemed quite pleased with the progress made since then, as did her old teammate watching from afar.
Boruto: They’re looking good!
Thinking him still on Mount Myōboku, Sarada turned around in surprise upon hearing his voice, smiling almost gleefully as he walked up beside her and taking the opportunity to give him the once-over in light of his recent training.
Sarada: They’re not the only ones.
He smiled in amusement as they both turned to watch the training unfolding in front of their eyes, Sarada turning back after a few minutes upon realizing he wasn’t the only one who just returned to the village.
Sarada: So how did their training go?
Boruto: (His expression quickly turned sour as he recalled the events that transpired shortly after their return.) Well…
– Two Hours Prior –
The village streets were quiet and mostly empty, its typical inhabitants either out training or at home spending time with their families. The main gate was no exception, the guards on the verge of dozing off when a large cloud of smoke suddenly appeared in front of them. They stared into it for several seconds before two figures finally leapt out of it at blinding speeds, revealed to be none other than Manako and Airon, both sporting their newly acquired Sage Mode and facing off with Frog Kata as the latter’s father and siblings watched them in annoyance back in front of the gate.
Inase: Jeez, they’re still at it?
Kei: Yo, guys, slow it down! You’re killin’ us over here!
They were too caught up in their spar to hear them, unfortunately, far too eager to test their new abilities to pay attention to anything else. The improved strength made leaping across half of the village in a single bound a simple task, a feeling Manako might’ve described as walking on air had Airon not been there to mock such ideas.
Airon: Don’t get cocky, Manako!! You’ve got a ways to go before you can do this!!
What followed was an ongoing struggle by Manako to leap over Airon as their brawl ensued, their enhanced chakra supplies making the latter’s air walking technique easier than ever before. Also enhanced, though, was the former’s already unrivalled reflexes, allowing him to grab ahold of Airon’s foot when he attempted to leap higher into the air and spin him around, sending him crashing into the roof of a tall building and sending shingles flying in every direction. The natural endurance provided by Sage Mode made this normally crippling blow little more than an afterthought, but that wasn’t what caused those below to watch with building frustration.
Boruto: Goddamn it. Hey, you two cut it out!
Again too fixated to notice the protests, the duo continued to carry their battle from building to building, leaving steadily increasing damage in their wake each time as those in the streets watched in horror. While Kei and Inase cringed every time a piece of rubble flew through the air, Boruto’s nails continued to sink deeper into his forearms until he finally had enough.
Manako: Is that all you’ve got!?
Airon: I’m glad you asked!!
Boruto: STOOOOOP!!!
The two leapt into the air with the intent of trading punches, only to use Body Flicker and Flying Raijin to quickly return to the ground as a large Rasenshuriken came flying between them. They immediately turned and looked off in the distance towards the main gate, where Boruto still stood, only then witnessing the amount of destruction left in the wake of their brawl.
– Present Time –
Sarada listened in silence at her old teammate’s recollection, her eyes growing wider all the while, not a single viable response coming to mind by the time he finished.
Sarada: …Wow…
Boruto: …Yeah…
Sarada: …Are they reconstructing?
Boruto: I told them to do it themselves. They had a good pace going when I decided to stop by.
Sarada: Well…that’s good, I guess.
Boruto: Yeah…
They turned back to watch their forces’ progress in the distant training ground, not another word exchanged between them. Boruto crossed his arms and scanned the area with his new eyes, using the opportunity to test their range, while Sarada stood beside him with her arms behind her back, smiling almost sensually as she pivoted her hips gently from side to side.
Sarada: You’re gonna spend the night with your family?
Boruto: (He looked at her out of the corner of his eye in a matter-of-fact manner.) Yeah, of course.
Sarada: Alright…we’ll have more time to ourselves later, then.
She removed her glasses and casually walked behind him as she said this, running her hand across his back before resting her head atop his shoulder. As she tried to wrap her arm around him, though, he swiped her hand away as his eyebrows began to sink.
Boruto: Not happening.
Sarada: (She pouted her lips and rubbed against him as she wrapped her arms around his chest.) Oh, why do you have to be like that? Didn’t you say you planned to always protect me from the shadows?
Boruto: (He flexed his shoulders in an effort to shrug her off, growing more annoyed by the second.) And what’s that have to do with this? Hey, knock it off!
Sarada: (She smirked in amusement, placing her mouth beside his ear as her hands began hovering over his chest.) Why fight it? It’s gonna happen soon anyway-
Boruto: No, it’s NOT!! God, what the hell kind of Hokage do you plan to be, anyways!? You can’t even be a good wife when you want to!
He grabbed her wrist and forcefully pulled her off, but she was much too stunned by his outburst to stop him. She just stood there, staring blankly at him with her mouth slightly open, reflecting silently on what he said. When nearly a minute passed without her saying anything, he finally rubbed his eyes and turned to explain himself.
Boruto: Sarada, we talked about this, alright? I’ve already ruined one marriage cause of us. I’m not doing that to Inoue and I like Tamanoko too much to let you screw things up with him, too.
The mentioning of her husband’s name was more than enough to stop any further advances on Sarada’s part, and she proceeded to leave the area with her head hung low. This wasn’t without making her future intentions known, though.
Sarada: I’m sorry…I can’t help that you’re so good.
She walked away with a smirk, knowing without turning her head or using her Sharingan that that final remark got his attention. True enough, Boruto watched as she left, noting the strut in her step, before turning back around and dragging his hand across his face, not looking forward to the days to come.
With the majority of qualified shinobi out in the fields, the streets of the village were busier than ever, civilians and shinobi on break from their training walking in and out of shops and pubs at a restless pace. While some gathered ingredients for their final meals of the night in the former and others drowned their worries in the latter, Kei stood amongst it all, dressed in his usual attire with his gray sweatshirt zipped up to hide his mesh armor, arms crossed and a drop of sweat trickling down his face as he awaited Kūrogane’s arrival. After a few minutes, she finally emerged from the crowded streets, his face immediately turning red at the sight of her crimson ruffle skirt and shoulderless white blouse, something she picked up on and giggled at under her breath.
Kūrogane: I’m gonna go out on a limb and say you’re not a fan of casual wear.
Kei: (He gave himself the once-over before looking back at her in a perplexed manner.) I just like my normal clothes. What’s wrong with that?
Kūrogane: Hmhmhm, I didn’t say there was. …So where are the others?
Kei: (His eyes widened in a minor panic, having forgotten to think of an excuse as to why they were hanging out alone today.) Oh, uh…well, most of them called in about wanting to be with their families, I guess. Except Chan, y’know. Training nut and all that, hehe.
Kūrogane: (Seeing through his rouse immediately, she smiled in amusement and raised an eyebrow to question him.) And you didn’t?
Kei: (He scratched the back of his head as if in thought, wiping away the sweat pouring down his neck as he did.) Well…I’ve got the whole night to spend with them. I figured the afternoon I could spend with whoever I wanted. …So you wanna just do something alone? Since the others didn’t make it?
Kūrogane: (She placed a finger to her chin as if contemplating the idea, though only as an attempt to toy with him.) Hmmm…well, I guess I could stay out a few hours, since I already made the plans.
Kei: (He clasped his hands together and grinned profusely.) Okay! Awesome!
He turned red again in light of his failure to contain his excitement, but quickly let the moment pass when Kūrogane showed no issue with it and proceeded to lead the way through the crowded streets. In light of current events, several stands housing treats of various kinds were staged throughout the village, gifts to the shinobi that would not be there to enjoy them the next day. Kei was quick to take them all up on their generosity, at one point carrying three different sugary concoctions in each hand while Kūrogane walked beside him and watched in amusement, only a small candy apple to satisfy her cravings. This one-sidedness carried over to their choice of dining, as well – barbeque, as per Kei’s insistence – where he quickly devoured six plates of meat while Kūrogane sat there after completing her first and only, his negligence forcing her to pay half of the bill to compensate for his own depleted funds. The movie screening that followed was also one of his choosing – though she admittedly insisted on this – and the two sat in the mostly empty theater for nearly two hours without a word, Kūrogane occasionally looking over and giggling at the sight of him gorging on the popcorn that she also paid for. The silence persisted as they left and during the first ten minutes of their walk through the village, until Kūrogane finally expressed her thoughts upon noticing the descending sun.
Kūrogane: Well…that was surprisingly entertaining.
Kei: Hehe, yeah! That movie was awesome, wasn’t it!?
Kūrogane: (She feigned annoyance, answering him with a slight nod before looking around at where they were.) So what was your next move…taking me to one of these?
She nodded her head towards the building beside them, prompting Kei to stare at it in confusion for the longest time. His eyes eventually expanded when he realized that it was a love hotel – and that they were walking right in the middle of a red light district.
Kei: Holy shit!! Oh my god, I’m sorry! So sorry, Kūrogane! I didn’t realize where we were! Sorry!
Kūrogane: (She motioned for him to calm down as she held her other hand over her mouth to hide her laughter.) Hmhmhmhm, it’s fine, Kei, it’s fine. I figured you were dozing off. …Probably a sign that it’s time to head home.
Kei: (He glanced up at the sun in response to this statement, taking out his phone and noting with both surprise and disappointment that it was already past six o’clock.) Oh, uh…yeah. Yeah, I guess it is.
He looked back up to say something else, but words quickly failed him as his gaze aligned with Kūrogane’s blemishless face. This was the moment he’d been waiting for all afternoon, the reason he brought her out here on the final day before the call to war – on the grounds of a lie, no less – and he could not bring himself to speak his mind, nor his heart. Kūrogane, too, seemed to be anticipating something more from him before their farewells for the night, but when nothing came, she merely smiled in silent acceptance.
Kūrogane: Well, thanks for the night out. It was a breath of fresh air, at the very least.
Kei: (He returned the gratitude with a nod, his smile slowly vanishing as she turned to walk away.) Glad I could help…uh, Kūrogane!
He gulped what air was in his mouth as his face once again turned red, briefly forgetting that she had only walked twenty feet or so. Kūrogane expressed surprise of her own at the sudden outburst, both in her expression and promptness when turning back around.
Kūrogane: Yeah?
Kei: …Don’t get yourself killed out there!
Kūrogane: (Half-expecting this, she smiled after a moment and shook her head in amusement.) …Alright. You do the same, then!
Kei: I will!
Kūrogane turned back around and continued walking with her smile still etched across her face, but it quickly disappeared as she stepped out of his range of audibility, faintly hearing his aggravated murmuring before he, too, began walking home. She spun around once to ensure this was the case, heaving a sigh of disappointment before reaching into her bag for her cigarettes, lighting one up before moving along.
As Kūrogane sped through the streets back to her home, off in the distance, Airon and Manako – along with their numerous clones – continued to repair the damage caused during their return to the village, the former repairing shingles while the latter mended slight dints left in the concrete walls. The work was not so much strenuous as it was expansive, and at long last, they both collapsed on the roof of the final building that required their attention.
Manako: Phew, some way to spend your last day, huh?
Airon: (He twirled his hammer around one of his fingers as he stared up at the sky.) Pssh, no kidding. …Who started that fight again?
Manako: Well, you. Obviously.
Airon: Yeah, sure I did. …Ass.
Manako: Hole.
Neither one looked at the other as they exchanged insults, but they quickly began laughing in spite of themselves. When the hilarity finally cooled down, the realization that the rest of the day was theirs finally came.
Airon: You spending the rest of the day with your dad?
Manako: Probably. Don’t know who else I’m gonna spend it with.
Airon: (He glanced over at him with a playful smirk.) You’re not gonna call up Sabure and spend some time talking to her?
Manako: (He continued looking up at the sky and smiled as he considered the idea, knowing full well that Airon was hoping to get some embarrassment out of him.) I might…if you spend time with Nakama.
He turned his head to bring Airon into his field of vision, grinning at the sight of him hiding his now flustered expression.
Manako: (Aww, what happened? Did mean old Manako just flip your plan over on its ass?)
Airon: (He gave him the finger as he struggled to regain his composure.) (It’s our last day. Mom’s gonna wanna spend it with all of us…and by that, I mean our original selves, not some clone.)
Manako: (Who’s gonna know the difference?)
Airon: (Well, Inase, for one.)
Manako: (And you think she’s gonna tell?)
Airon: (No, but I don’t need any of her taunting, either.)
Manako: (…Come on, Airon, you’re gonna need a better excuse than that.)
Airon shot him a brief look of denial, though his mind continued to affirm his attempts to avoid the subject. Manako knew this, as well – Airon’s mind contained far too many barriers to surpass with a quick scan, but with their bond as strong as it was, reading it was practically unnecessary.
Manako: (Airon, you’re my cousin and my closest friend, so for the love of God, don’t hold this off any longer. …I might just have to kick your ass for it.)
Airon glanced over at him with a smirk, but his thoughts were anything but cheerful. The past few weeks aside, the prospect of asking Nakama out had been on his mind for the last few years alone. Every time he found an opportunity to do so, though, he was overcome by fear. Manako realized this long ago, but Airon was quick to discredit his beliefs as to where that fear originated.
Airon: (She’s like my little sister, Manako. We spent a few years living in the same house, for God sakes. …I dunno, it’s just not a relationship I’m all that willing to change into…something else.)
Manako: (He looked away and thought over this reasoning for a moment, bobbing his head in mild understanding.) (Yeah, well…step siblings have been known to…you know…)
He swung his head out of the way as a hammer came flying towards it, sending him into a brief fit of laughter that even Airon was hesitant to join. When it ended, Manako stood up to leave, intent on actually making the most of his last day in the village.
Manako: (Hey, even if that’s the case, you should still spend one more day with her and hang out at the very least. …Maybe you won’t think more of it, but I know it’ll mean the world to her.)
Airon spent a moment contemplating this, but he quickly looked up when he deciphered the hidden meaning behind his wording, prompting Manako to flash a wicked grin as he leapt to the nearest rooftop.
Manako: (Hey, you were the one who promised never to read her mind, Romeo. I never promised a damn thing.)
Airon stood up as he sped away, seeing him off before turning and looking in the opposite direction, where he knew Nakama’s home awaited. He looked several degrees to the right soon after, in the direction of his own house, looking between the two for the longest time before heaving a sigh and taking off towards the latter.
The war did not officially begin for another three days, but caution was already a strong priority. Departing for another country with their forces in their entirety, an ambush was well within the range of possibilities, especially when considering how little was known about their enemy’s leader. As the newly declared commander of the entire alliance, thinking through this likelihood was Shikamaru’s chore to bear, though he was helped by his wife, son, and two brothers-in-law, the latter’s presence made possible through a live feed from the computer sitting in his home office.
Gaara: I’m still not entirely convinced, though. It would be the perfect opportunity.
Shikamaru: Perhaps, but Otori doesn’t strike me as a man who would break his word. Our forces should be fine during the journey.
Kankurō: Either way, we should both prepare for the worst. Remember, on some level, these enemies of ours plotted the murders of our Kage. I wouldn’t be surprised if their tricks just got dirtier from there.
Gaara: …And that includes using the assassin in a sneak attack.
Silence ensued as Shikamaru reminisced on this possibility, not having forgotten for a second that the man or woman who killed their enemies’ predecessors undoubtedly worked for them and continued to do so. His history as a brilliant strategist was known across the great nations, though, and he simply smiled in reassurance and held up a small map in front of the camera transmitting their own live feed.
Shikamaru: I don’t doubt that being a possibility. …But that’s why we’re using these alternate routes prepared by Shikadai and I. Even if he does realize we aren’t using the paths generally associated with travelling to the Land of Iron, how long would it take for him to determine our real location?
Temari: (She looked at the two of them with nostalgic admiration.) They thought of everything. We’ll make it to the Land of Iron, no trouble whatsoever.
The others nodded in agreement, the still skeptical Gaara included, before recalling that, in fact, only four of them would actually be travelling to the Land of Iron.
Shikamaru: I don’t suppose there’s any chance of changing your mind, Kankurō.
Kankurō: (He heaved a sigh and shook his head.) Huhhh, I can’t. Too old. Plus, I’m not smart enough to just sit around headquarters giving orders like you and Temari.
Gaara: But you are smart enough to realize that.
The subtle insult was amusing enough on its own, but the identity of its proprietor, who was infamous for his rare transitions into humor, sent everyone into a brief fit of laughter, including the victim of the assault. As it ended, the time was quickly noted and Shikamaru looked out the window to see that the sun was at a similar position in the afternoon sky.
Shikamaru: Well, we should probably let you go. We have three full days ahead of us and we all need our rest.
Gaara: (He nodded in understanding, turning his attention to his sister before reaching out to touch the monitor of his own computer.) Then I’ll see you then. …Be safe, Temari.
Temari: (She smiled gently and reached out to do the same.) …You, too.
The screen went black soon after, Temari’s smile quickly replaced by a look of fear as the mood in the room followed suit. Shikamaru’s wrapped his hand around her in reassurance and seeing this, their son smiled and stood up, placing his hand on her shoulder, as well.
Shikadai: There’s no way Uncle Gaara’s gonna have anything bad happen to him. …He is a legend, after all.
Shikamaru: (He looked up at him with a smile, proud to see him looking out for his mother’s feelings.) …Yeah. That’s true.
Shikadai left the room, but neither Temari’s face nor her mindset changed in the slightest. Shikamaru simply squeezed her tighter, unable to hide his fear that in spite of all his careful planning, something in the coming days would go horribly wrong.
In a large estate near the center of the village, the Sarutobi clan prepared heavily for the battles to come, a massive feast having been prepared to account for the past several days spent training and as a worthy send-off for those leaving tomorrow before dawn. Those who didn’t take part in the gathering were with their loved ones, using what precious time they had left to its fullest extent, and Konohamaru’s descendants fell into this category. With Suzaku and Ayumi inside, it fell upon Minto and Raiden to preoccupy their new little sister, who sat on Minto’s knee as he in turn sat on a large stump, watching as Raiden showed off his skill with shuriken on a distant tree.
Raiden: You see that, Bachiko!?
Bachiko: (She smiled gleefully and clapped her hands.) That was awesome, Brother!
He returned her smile and continued his display of technique, her enthusiasm growing with each shuriken thrown as Minto’s annoyance did the same. He managed to put up with it for some time, though, until a quick glance from Raiden prompted him to roll his eyes and set her down beside him.
Minto: Huhhh, alright. Sit up here, Bachiko, and I’ll show you how it’s done.
Raiden paid no mind and continued throwing shuriken, forcing Minto to push him aside as he unveiled one of his Shock Lashes, twirling it around several times before swinging it forward with a loud crack, slicing the tree clean in half in an instant.
Bachiko: Wow! That was so cool, Big Brother!
Minto smiled back at her before cocking an eyebrow in Raiden’s direction, expecting him to notice the additional word, as well. Hands stuffed in his pockets with an unimpressed look, Raiden just shook his head and reached into his bag.
Raiden: Uh-huh. Well, here. Let me show you something else.
He pulled out a large Fūma Shuriken as Minto and Bachiko looked on, unfolding it slowly and taking a moment to perfect his stance before throwing it into the large field near their home. Its close proximity to the ground helped it to slice through the tall blades of grass with extreme accuracy, its trajectory allowing it to cut a fair portion of it down to size before returning to his hand. Bachiko was as ecstatic as ever, with even Minto unable to hide being mildly impressed with the feat.
Minto: Alright, fine. But can you do this?
Retrieving his second Shock Lash, he leapt into the center of the field and immediately began spinning around as he slowly knelt to the ground, increasing their length as he went until he formed a large circle of low-cut grass. He followed up with his usual trick of twirling the Lashes in the air in a corkscrew-like fashion, steadily moving one directly in front of Bachiko to show his complete control over their movements.
Bachiko: Whoa!
He quickly pulled back as she attempted to reach out and touch it, smiling and shaking his head at her to convince her this was the best idea. In response, Raiden reached for another large shuriken, wrapping a long string through its center before using it to mimic Minto’s actions, spinning the shuriken through the air like a pinwheel. He quickly learned to do it properly, but he was quickly stopped by a familiar voice as he tried moving it closer to Bachiko.
Suzaku: HEY!!
Both the Lashes and the shuriken quickly plummeted to the ground, their users lowering their heads as their father ran out of the house, snatching up Bachiko and staring back at them with fiery eyes.
Suzaku: What the heck is wrong with you two!? You’re supposed to be sitting down watching your sister, not trying to get her hurt on the sidelines! …You okay, sweetie?
Not fazed by the potential danger she was in whatsoever, she simply replied with a large smile, one Suzaku returned as he walked back into the house, though before Raiden could lift his head up slightly to watch him leave.
Raiden: Maybe if you and Mom had finished earlier…
Suzaku didn’t turn around, but the fact that he briefly stopped walking was enough to make it clear to his sons that his face was beet-red.
Minto: That’s…painfully embarrassing.
Raiden: (He paid little attention to him as he picked up his shuriken, refolding it and tucking back into his bag before heading inside.) No more than YOU trying to upstage me.
With little time at his disposal to retaliate, Minto merely heaved a sigh and grabbed his weapons, stashing them away in their holsters before following them inside. Dinner was served early to give their family enough time alone with one another, though this in essence meant the five of them were sat in the living room, Minto in the recliner and Raiden laid out across the sofa, while Suzaku sat on the loveseat with Ayumi in his arms as Bachiko rested against her side. This went on silently for thirty minutes until Suzaku’s drowsiness suddenly vanished, his face turning pink in response to the hand working its way between his legs. He glanced over at his sons, relieved to find neither of them paying attention before standing up as Ayumi held Bachiko and rested her back down on the seat.
Suzaku: Uhhh, me and Mommy are gonna go to bed now, okay, baby? You just sit out here with your brothers and try to fall asleep.
Bachiko: (She let out a long yawn in response.) …Okay.
He didn’t even have time to adjust her blanket before he was dragged off by Ayumi, Raiden watching stealthily as they walked into the hallway and gagging once they were out of sight.
Raiden: Ugh, I’m gonna be sick.
Minto: (He smirked in amusement and shook his head, looking over at the hallway entrance as he replied.) We’re leaving tomorrow. She just wants to spend as much time with him as she can. …If you had a girlfriend, you’d understand.
Raiden: Pssh, you’re one to talk.
He glanced over at their sister as the remark left his lips, instantly standing up and walking over to her when he saw that she wasn’t fully wrapped in her blanket. She smiled up at him and let out another yawn as he tucked her in, and he couldn’t help but smile back.
Raiden: You’re lookin’ kinda sleepy there, huh, Bachiko?
Bachiko: (She nodded drowsily as he slid one of the couch pillows beneath her head.) …Could you sing to me, Brother?
Raiden slowly turned to face Minto, who was staring back in amusement and motioning for him to proceed. Begrudgingly, he granted her request and began singing softly into her ear. The effects quickly became evident as her head sunk further into the pillow, and to Minto’s surprise, the sight wasn’t nearly as amusing as it was heartwarming, though that didn’t stop him from grinning wickedly as Raiden turned back around.
Raiden: Shut up.
Minto: (He held up his hand to protest his innocence.) I didn’t say anything. …I just think you found your strength.
Raiden: And what’s that supposed to mean?
Minto: (He smile slowly vanished as he looked away, his eyes stopping on their newest family portrait hanging above the television.) …You’re better at being a big brother than you are at being a little brother.
Raiden eventually waved this off with a matter-of-fact expression, but the thought persisted in Minto’s mind as he stood up, gazing back over at him once more before walking into the kitchen for a drink.
Minto: Maybe that’s the way it should’ve been.
He grabbed some ice cubes from the freezer and threw them into his glass before filling it to the brim with tap water, drinking it slowly to allow the coldness to take effect before dumping it out and setting in the dishwasher. When this was done, he turned off the kitchen lights and retired to his bedroom for the night, with Raiden not taking his eyes off of him the entire time. He glanced up at the portrait once he was gone, noting their positions on opposite sides of the portrait before heaving a sigh of his own. He picked up Bachiko and carried her back to her room, smiling as she wrapped her arms around his neck, the image was still fresh on his mind as he laid her down on her bed and returned to his own.
Lights went out across the rest of the village as the sun disappeared from the sky, unease drifting through the streets as many families kissed their loved ones goodnight for what could possibly be the last time. From atop the Academy building, Naruto and Sasuke looked on as this all transpired, their wives watching alongside them as the chirps of the evening crickets filled the air, the youngest of the four noting that even their noise was virtually blocked out by the lingering tension.
Hinata: It’s so quiet.
Sakura: (She nodded in agreement.) But not exactly calm.
Naruto: (He squeezed Hinata’s hand, smiling in mild reassurance.) There’s a lot to be nervous about…but that’s what the last night’s for. Giving each other that needed comfort.
Sasuke: (Still mourning the news of his old teammate’s death, he clenched his fist as he looked off towards the darkening horizon.) …The war shouldn’t last long. Our forces are larger and stronger than ever, even with their homeland advantages…and you and I are taking part in the fighting, too.
Naruto: …I’m not so sure we’ll make that big a difference this time, Sasuke.
Both Hinata and Sakura glanced up at him in surprise, even the normally impassive Sasuke unable to hide his shock at the doubt expressed by his typically assertive rival.
Hinata: Naruto…
Sakura: How could your powers not make a difference? Kaguya, Toneri, Momoshiki and Kinshiki…all those shinobi from the Ōtsutsuki clan that we’ve managed to defeat.
Sasuke: And not to mention Madara Uchiha…I’m sorry, Naruto, but what makes you think anyone in this day and age could possibly pose a greater threat than any of them?
Naruto: (Images of Otori and Dageki flashed through his mind as he attempted to explain himself.) …I don’t know. That one guy at the summit, though…maybe I didn’t see enough of the jutsu to really know, but I just can’t get it out of my head.
Sasuke: (He thought for a moment about the “white lightning”, too, eventually turning back to him with his self-assurance fully restored.) …I have the Rinnegan and the Mangekyō Sharingan. And you have Kurama. …Whatever it is, we’ll find a way to overcome it, no matter what.
Naruto: …Yeah…you’re right.
Even as he said it, though, his grip on Hinata’s hand just continued to grow stronger. An untraceable assassin, a flesh-dissolving jutsu, and the ability to sway three of the great villages to work towards his goals, Otori had everything he needed to start this war – and Naruto couldn’t shake the feeling that he had everything in place to end it, too.
With just hours remaining before shinobi were forced to leave their families, couples across the village used this night to consummate their love, as Suzaku and Ayumi had so recklessly hinted to their sons. The Uchiha household was no exception, and with both Akame and Katsuto fast asleep – at least to their knowledge – Sarada and her husband sought out to make the most of their last night in the same bed.
Tamanoko: Phew, so ends round three. …Huhhh, what’s gotten into you tonight?
Sarada: (She rolled off of him with her energy depleted, breathing heavily as the ceiling fan worked to remove the sweat sticking to her entire body.) Huhhh…huhhh, what? It’s our last night together for a while. …Huhhh, I can’t make use of you while I’m still here?
Tamanoko: (He managed a grin as she crept up and planted a kiss on his chin, proceeding to wrap his arm around her and pull her closer.) Huhhh…huhh, alright. Fair enough.
As a non-shinobi, and not gifted with her same level of endurance, Tamanoko fell asleep shortly afterwards. Still awake and not quite satisfied herself, Sarada sat up and walked over to their bathroom to splash water onto her face. She sat on the toilet, still exhausted from their previous consummation, and allowed herself the chance to cool off. As she sat there, she looked up at her husband, sleeping soundly in their bed after what was no doubt a satisfying night for him. She could only look for ten seconds before she was forced to bow her head, unable to face the fact that the entire night they were together, she was thinking of someone else.
Midnight was just beyond the horizon, but with tensions high as they ever were, more than a few individuals and families remained awake well into the night. Among them was the Namikaze household, in the living room of which sat the family in question. In the armchair perched Airon, while on the adjacent sofa slouched Kei and Inase, all of them with boredom on their minds, but neither the exhaustion to sleep nor the dispassion to voice these feelings to their parents, who sat with their arms around one another on the nearby loveseat. Boruto stared directly ahead, something clearly on his mind, while Inoue rested against him with concern in her eyes, an occasional sigh or shiver prompting him to look down at her and smile with reassurance.
Boruto: It’s alright…we’ve still got the whole night together.
Inoue: (She smiled back up at him and took ahold of his hand before glancing over at their children.) You three doing alright? You haven’t said much…out loud.
Airon: (He smiled in amusement.) We’re not saying a thing, Mom. I promise you.
Kei: (He leaned back in his seat and rubbed his stomach.) Yeah. I’m still digesting over here.
Inase: Yeah, dinner was awesome, Mom.
Inoue: Hmhm, it’s your last night. You should be entitled to a good dinner now and a great breakfast in the morning.
Airon: (He sarcastically raised an eyebrow.) You seem pretty choked up about it.
Inoue: (She merely smiled and shook her head.) You’re your father’s children. And his father’s grandchildren. …If I have any doubts about you, it’s whether or not you three won’t show off while you’re out there.
Inase: (She glared back in mild irritation.) And why are you including me in that?
Kei: AND me! It’s only this numbskull who can’t just do something right and not show off doing it!
From the look on his face, the sudden accusation caught Airon off guard, though he quickly shook his head in amusement and resumed staring out the window, garnering everyone’s attention in the process.
Boruto: Something else on your mind, Airon?
Airon: …I guess you could say that.
Inoue: You can go see her if you want, hon. …None of us will stop you.
Airon was fully prepped to disregard such an assumption, but when he turned to face her, he suddenly found himself at a loss for words as every set of eyes in the room locked onto him. Every one of them had been thinking the exact same thing – and he was rightfully embarrassing for not realizing how obvious he made it to them.
Airon: I…I wasn’t-
Boruto: Airon, just go. It’s alright. …She needs the company way more than we do.
Fighting the urge to look at his siblings’ no-doubt toothy grins, he continued to stare back and forth between his parents’ smiling faces, surprised and amazed that they felt so comfortable letting him go on their last night together. Hesitant as he was, though, he eventually smiled and nodded in gratitude, disappearing in a small puff of smoke seconds later.
Kei: What the hell!?
Boruto: (He smiled widely in amusement and shook his head.) Huhhh, why am I not surprised? …Did you know, Inase?
Inase: (She confirmed this with a smirk, tapping her finger against the side of her head in reference to her telepathy.) I’ve been making fun of him this whole time.
Boruto: Hmhmhm, that a girl.
The following day would mark the end of a long and prosperous era, an event marked in return by a large and beautiful full moon. The light it cast upon the quiet village gave it a serene beauty that rivalled its daytime glory, and no more evident was this than on the surface of the river that coursed through it. Perhaps it was for this reason that Airon headed there first instead of to Nakama’s home, knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that she wouldn’t miss seeing it for the world. As was usually the case, his instincts proved correct.
Airon: Even this late at night? Come on, the river’s not that pretty.
He chuckled softly in amusement as he walked up behind her, having found her sitting on the grassy slope overlooking the river, legs curled up and her arms wrapped around them to defend against the coolness of the night. She casually looked over her shoulder to greet him, smiling gently at the sight of him, but clearly disappointed with the time of his arrival.
Nakama: Took you long enough.
Airon: (He smirked unapologetically and plopped down beside her.) You could’ve come over to me or Minto’s, you know. I don’t think either of us would’ve minded having you over.
Nakama: (She meagerly shook her head.) I didn’t wanna be a hindrance.
Airon: Hehe, hindrance to what? We were just sitting on a couch saying nothing until I finally left.
Nakama: (She lowered her head, gradually making it obvious that she was hiding her real reasoning.) …I just wanted to be with my thoughts is all.
Airon: Is that why you’re not shooing me away now?
She lifted her feet and pivoted in the other direction in an attempt to feign offense, an attempt Airon might’ve let slip by without laughing if he hadn’t known her so well.
Airon: Sorry about earlier today. …I promised we would do something once I got back.
Nakama: (She smirked and shook her head.) It doesn’t matter. …What was there to do, anyways?
Airon: (He shrugged his shoulders.) Ehhh, I dunno. I guess they had some decent stands out earlier. I’m not much of a movie guy, sooo…I dunno. Something.
Nakama: (She turned to face him.) Some something.
Airon: Well, hey, I never said I was a genius at everything.
Nakama: I think you have.
Airon: Really? I don’t recall that.
Nakama: I’m pretty sure you have.
Airon: Alright, fine. Have it your way.
Airon took a moment to revel in the hilarity, but Nakama seemed content with sitting there and listening to his laughter instead of joining in it. There was a sense of urgency in her face and sorrow in her eyes that grew stronger with each passing second, the sight of which quickly brought Airon out of his trance, having never seen such emotion from her under such casual circumstances.
Nakama: Well, if I’m having it my way…you think you could just walk me home, then?
She stood up as she spoke, waiting for him to follow suit as she waited with her arms crossed to shield herself from the cold. The longing from before persisted, and Airon was practically forced to his feet to appease her.
Airon: Of course. …And put this on, too. Jeez, it must be fifty degrees out here.
He took off his jacket and placed it over her shoulders, and she quickly wrapped herself in it and looked up at him in gratitude, a gesture he returned with a smile before stuffing his hands in his pockets and starting the long walk to her home. The streets were empty and silent, as were they, and it became clearer as the minutes ticked by that only a few hours remained between then and the departure of their forces. For Airon, this was a senseless issue – he was an insomniac as he was, especially in the wake of his recent nightmares – but the concern was there for Nakama to get the sleep she needed for tomorrow’s journey. He was ready to recommend use of her earth-manipulating abilities to hurry the walk along, or perhaps even his Flying Raijin – he had visited her home enough times to be confident a seal was still lying around there somewhere – but the look on her face stole the words away before he could say them. She knew the options available to them, and she knew that every minute they were out would only make her more hesitant to wake in a few hours, but she honestly didn’t care. Airon gazed off in the direction of Manako’s house, knowing now that he was right – spending these last few moments with him really did mean the world to her. This brought the gentlest of smiles to his face just as her small apartment complex came into full view, prompting him to take her hand as he recalled the seal laid out right outside her front door. He grinned with amusement as they made the four hundred-meter leap through space and time, but what he found when he turned to face her was neither gratitude nor annoyance, or even disappointment for that matter. It actually bore a stronger resemblance to anxiety, the kind one felt right before giving an onstage performance, but he still couldn’t tell why without reading her mind, something they both knew he would never do. Instead, he stepped forward to open the door when she hesitated to do so herself, displaying her home to her with an outstretched arm in an almost butler-esque fashion.
Airon: Your humble abode, I presume.
Her preoccupied mind aside, she managed the soft smile he was looking for as she stepped inside, slipping off his jacket and returning it to him before she unzipped her own coat.
Nakama: You think you could turn around for a moment? …I need to change into my pajamas.
Airon: (Put off by the sudden request, his face turned pink and he immediately spun around to face the door.) …Uh, yeah. Yeah, sure. (She still wears pajamas?)
As a highly skilled shinobi and a recently graduated Sage, his ears quickly became his greatest enemy in his attempts block out his thoughts of Nakama changing right behind him. Perhaps it was ironic, then, that the moment he caved and let them in was when they disappeared completely, replaced by the sudden realization that they were still in the main room of her house, over a hundred feet away from her dresser or her clothes. He instantly stiffened up in reaction, becoming unresponsive to everything – including her.
Nakama: Okay…you can look now.
It was said with the same level of candor and innocence he had come to always expect of her, but he couldn’t bring himself to move, not when he knew what she was really trying to do. When he didn’t take the initiative, she finally heaved a sigh and walked up behind him, resting her head against his shoulders as his back straightened out, along with every hair on his body.
Nakama: You came out to find me tonight.
Airon: (His unease soon faded and was replaced by remorse.) …I was spurred on.
Nakama: Manako?
Airon: (He gave the feeblest nod in confirmation.) And my parents…but…I dunno, maybe I intended to from the start.
Nakama: …Then why was I waiting so long?
Airon: …I thought you would already be home and asleep.
Nakama: Liar.
Airon’s guilt rose another level, and he cursed himself for it. He neither needed to read her mind nor turn around to know the disappointment she felt knowing he was keeping things from her, something he explicitly promised her he’d never do. But how could he, though? How could he tell her that the feelings she wanted him to return so badly didn’t exist, at least not in the form she was hoping? He had tried to. Many times, he had tried to envision her as someone with whom he could not only share his secrets, but also his love, life, perhaps even children. No matter how hard he tried, though, it always came back to the same unwavering image he’d had of her since childhood. She was his little sister, plainest and simple – and he would rather break the heart of a potential lover than break a promise to her.
Airon: Because I knew you’d bear no ill feelings towards me if I decided to spend tonight with my family, and because you knew I’d never do anything that might hurt you without a reason. …We’ve had that shared understanding since the day we met. …Everything about our relationship just seemed perfect to me…and I didn’t want to change that.
She took a step back as he finally turned around, hesitating to open his eyes until he reminded himself once again that she was family. To his relief, she was still afraid to remove her panties and her long hair fell over her breasts to conceal them, as well, but the sadness that filled her watering eyes was what prompted him to look away in self-disgust, ashamed at himself for putting her through this heartbreak for the sake of his own integrity.
Airon: I still don’t.
She nodded feebly in understanding and stared down at the floor in disappointment for the longest time, half-expecting such an answer considering how long she’d waited for him to make the first move. This sadness at being turned down gradually converted to anger at being led on for so many years, until she finally looked back up at him with her fists clenched and a single tear in each eye.
Nakama: Then stop talking and just stand there. …I’ve waited too long for my turn to be selfish.
His eyes widened with surprise as she stepped out of the moonlight shining through her window, shrouding both of them in darkness. His stance directly in front of the door made backing away pointless, and even if he had all the space in the world to do so, he wasn’t sure if he could. This was her final stand, her last-ditch effort to gain his affection, by force if not willingly. And he couldn’t help but feel cornered, dreading the inevitable possibility that by turning her away now, he would forever damage the bond they’ve shared for the past twelve years. So he didn’t.
Airon: Okay.
This was his solution, his only means of keeping her close and preserving her happiness, all he really wanted in the end. She was his little sister, but if that’s what it took to preserve their bond, he would readily throw aside his own feelings to become something that suited hers. Nakama’s hands unfurled and she slowly walked back into the moonlight, a silent beckoning for him to follow. His heart now hers to command, he stepped forward without question, just far enough so that the light from the window illuminated his face. She reached out to caress his cheek, and he did hers, one last gesture inducing him to kneel down to bring his face to the same level as her own. The hesitation that followed was mutual – it was a first time for them both – until finally, their lips parted and closed around one another, the shadows of the room hiding Airon’s still quivering form from view.
Confessions are made and lines are drawn as the final day comes to an end!!!
The End
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