Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Standing in-front of the memorial stone stood a silver haired girl who was more busy trying her hair into a low ponytail than actually bothering to pay attention to the name being carved on. No one really bothered to stop the girl as they were far more focused on the stone than some impudent child. 

Except her mother, Hatake Itoi, who was glaring daggers towards her. 

"Yaeri." She hissed while swatting her daughters hand away from her hair. "I already did your hair into beautiful braids for the occasion. Why did you take them out?"

"They're uncomfortable." Was the girls solemn reply. 

Why do people even care how fashionable she looks at a funeral anyway? It's not like the dead are going to revive themselves in sheer fury over her not having the appropriate hairstyle. 

Or maybe they would, Yaeri has seen weirder things happen. 

Though in this case she doubts her grandmother cares all that much. Old woman sure as hell hated formality and would scream at them all if she was around to see this farce of a funeral. 

Everyone knows this wasn't just natural causes even at her old age of...a million years. Realistically a gust of wind should've done her in ages ago but here they are. 

Shrugging her shoulders Yaeri finally manages to tie back her hair in peace before turning on her heel to leave. 

Her mother didn't try to stop her this time. It was her Sage damned brother. 

"Yaeri-Chan, you shouldn't leave like that." The boy chastises while following her. "It's disrespectful to Obaa-Sama."

Not dignifying the statement with a reply Yaeri simply nodded while continuing her pace. 

Sakumo smiles gently before tapping her on the shoulder. "It's alright to be upset Imouto. We all know how much Obaa-Sama favoured you."

Had it been anyone other than Sakumo saying that then Yaeri would've thought him bitter because of it. As it stands however, Sakumo really wasn't one to grow envious of others. In fact it always seemed to be the opposite. 

"I didn't favour her back." Yaeri commented dryly before tapping the side of her cheek. "Obaa-Chan's kisses were the worst."

Chuckling slightly Sakumo speeds up a little to walk side by side next to her. 

Annoying brat, she's really getting sick of him. 

Gazing towards the falling sunset Yaeri feels the light burn into her retina before closing the lids of her eyes tightly. A beautiful sight always comes at a cost. 

"You wanna know something, Onii-Chan?" Yaeri asked while reopening her eyes as a vibrant blob continued to appear as she looked around. "People like you are destined to die young."

Far too soft hearted, that's just his nature and people like him don't tend to last too long. 

Their grandmother was someone who had survived the Warring States. Clearly, he didn't get his weak nature from her. It certainly wasn't their father either, that man wouldn't hesitate to drag a kunai across his children's necks should he need too. 

In that case it was their mother that was to blame for his weak will. Poor woman, her good nature would be the death of him. 

And Yaeri? Well, thankfully she's her fathers daughter through and through. 

"One hundred and one....one hundred and two..." Yaeri murmurs as her elbow touches her knee. 

Yuuhi Shinku gazed towards his teammate in barely concealed horror as he watches her do sit ups while hanging off of a tree branch. Crazy girl, at this point she's basically asking to die from exhaustion. 

An elbow jammed itself into his ribs as he glares towards his Uchiha teammate. The insolent swine seemed to enjoy being the epitome of everything he despised. 

"Hey, come on now man, we get an amazing view of Yaeri-Chan's six pack so cheer up." Eban cooed towards him as Shinku rolls his eyes. 

"I have no interest in women." He sneered before immediately regretting it as Eban gained a mischievous glint in his eyes. 

"So you like men?" Eban asked as Shinku groaned in dismay. "That's fine, I do too, we can date each other."

"Absolutely not."

He has a fiancé. Who's a girl. A pretty girl at that, one Shinku wouldn't mind marrying. Even if the marriage was arranged for political clout he can't say that it was all that bad a choice. 

This is all to say that Eban's assessment of his sexuality is completely wrong. 

"Even if I did like men," which he absolutely did not, "I'd have higher standards and wouldn't settle for a heathen like you."

No one else should either. Eban is basically the check list of what you don't want in a partner. 

Seemingly done with that insane workout of hers the Hatake of the group jumped down while landing on her feet like a cat despite falling twenty feet from the tree branch. 

Giving the two a blank look the girl scanned them over before blinking owlishly in what seemed to be thinly vailed interest. 

"What you guys talking about?" Yaeri asks nonchalantly while stuffing her hands into her jackets pockets. 

"Shinku likes men but won't admit it." Eban immediately declares as he physically refrains from throttling the other boy. 

"That's not true and you know it."

The Uchiha cackled before blowing him a kiss. 

"Oh, men." Yaeri tilts her head towards the side. "Woman are better in my opinion but men are fine as well, I'd still date one. Go out with whoever you like Shinku-San, this is a judgement free zone."

"I. Don't. Like. Men." He emphasis to get his point across to absolutely no avail. It was like taking to a wall. 

Both of his teammates share a look before Eban gives him a solemn look. 

"He's so deep in denial that he can't even see it." The Uchiha announces with mock pity. 

It's official, he absolutely despises his teammates. Especially Eban, that goddamn bastard. 

Praying to the Sage for the ground to just eat him whole Shinku let's go of the last of his self control and screams in pure fury. With teammates like these two who needs heart attacks when they are so willing to shorten his life span?

Sakumo wrapped his palm around the handle of the teapot with as much grace as their mother would use when entertaining a guest of their fathers. Honestly, he should be an etiquette teacher instead of Shinobi, it'd suit him a lot more. 

Bringing the cup to her lips Yaeri smelled the tea once before lowering it back onto the table. 

"Really, Onii-Chan? Poison?" She didn't expect it from him of all people. Still, he was a Ninja at the end of the day and these things were to be expected no matter how innocent he may seem. 

He looked down towards his own cup, seemingly ashamed of his actions. Or of being caught. 

"Father insisted I do so." Sakumo informed her with a sullen expression. "Poison resistance training."

Of course, there's no way anyone but their father could drag Sakumo into this situation. Honestly, she shouldn't be surprised. 

"Then I suppose I have no choice but to drink." Raising her cup towards the boy they both allow them to clink together before taking in the liquid. 

The substance burned the inside of her throat, not subtle in the slightest as it began to take effect. It wouldn't be her first choice in assassinations, that's for sure. 

At least the overall taste was good, even if it absolutely burned her insides. Credit where credit is due Sakumo can make even the worst brew a delectable drink if he puts his mind to it. 

Brushing through the strands of her hair with a wooden comb Yaeri continued to read her Sensei attempts to untangle the clumps of stubborn hair. 

"How do you even get yourself into a situation like this in the first place Yaeri-Chan?" The woman questions as a tight frown mares her face. 

Shrugging her shoulder the Hatake flips the page she was reading over. 

"Eban-San said that he copied a really cool Fuuton Jutsu that helps untangle bed hair." She then rolls her eyes. "He thought I'd be the perfect candidate."

Sarutobi Biwako snorts before a small smile blooms across the stern woman's features. "Ah, of course Eban-Kun would use your hair even though his is longer."

"Right? I've lost count the amount of times clients have mistaken him as the Kunoichi of the team." Yaeri then tilts her head. "Actually, I feel insulted now, they're basically insinuating that a boy is more feminine than me."

Which is not true at all. Sure, Yaeri is more muscular than the average female but that wasn't all that uncommon among Ninja. If anything, it'd be weird if she wasn't. 

It isn't her fault Uchiha men are born with dainty, womanly features. She's seen a statue of Madara once and if Yaeri is being honest he also looks like a girl even if he is on the more masculine side of the Uchiha genetic spectrum. 

"Don't feel too insulted by it." Biwako soothes with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "When I first met Hiruzen I thought they were marrying me off to a woman."

Yaeri snorts. "No way." 

"Yes way! You should've seen him back then, I thought he was a bit ugly for a girl and asked my Okaa-San why he looked like that. Imagine my surprise when I found out that tomboyish girl was a guy!" Biwako then abruptly cackles when the image replays in her head. 

The Hatake tries to imagine it, she really does, but the image of Hiruzen Sarutobi looking like a little girl when he was younger just wasn't within her grasp. 

So instead she went back to reading. 

"What about him made your husband look so much like a girl?"

"Ah, probably the fact that his elder cousins had stuffed him into a pretty pink Kimono and that he was all dolled up from head to toe in makeup. I heard those kids got into big trouble after."

Humming slightly Yaeri recalls a memory of her own. "I did that to Onii-Chan once. I invited him to a tea party and made him wear our Okaa-San's Kimono before showing Obaa-Chan what I did to him."

The old woman was absolutely beside herself with laughter once she saw it. Yaeri is certain the woman hasn't laughed like that since the Warring States. Itoi had actually screamed before desperately trying to get her son out of the clothes. 

Sakumo was just happy he could spend time with his sister and Yaeri was happy that she had new blackmail material. 

She never did show her father though, because Sage knew he couldn't accept his children having fun. 

Tapping his foot against the floorboards of the rundown building Shinku glares towards the rat that had scurried behind a crate as soon as it heard footsteps coming towards its direction. 

Disgusting creature, he'll kill it once Eban's out of sight. Apparently the Uchiha actually thinks the ugly thing is cute which shouldn't be surprising considering Eban also considers himself handsome but still, he would've thought the other boy would at least have more sense then to think this abomination was worthy of such praise. 

Though maybe he's giving Eban too much credit, that boy doesn't have the best taste of his dating history is anything to go by. 

"Maybe we can get you a Rat Summoning contract." Yaeri contemplates as the Uchiha holds out a block of cheese towards the animal.

Shinku turned his glare towards the Hatake. "Absolutely not, we won't be indulging this obsession of his, Yaeri-San." He immediately rebuked, not allowing the idea to implement. 

If he had to deal with a rat popping in and out of existence every five minutes then he'll go insane. 

"Well I, for one, think that's a great idea." Eban declares resolutely. "Rats are majestic creatures and having them around me at all times sounds like paradise."

Really, Eban was such a strange person. No one but him would think this way about a rat. Or at least, Shinku hopes there's no one else who does, one rat obsessed human was enough for the world. 

"I'll ask my summons if a rat contract is available."

Raising an eyebrow towards the girl, Shinku feels mildly shocked at the revelation. "You have a summons already?" He asked incredulously. 

Maybe it shouldn't be surprising. Some Clan's have close ties to certain summons allowing generations to partner with them early on. Not that Shinku would know, his family was barely considered a Shinobi family after only having the bare minimum of four generations of ninja. 

Five, if they included his generation. 

"Yeah, a panda." Yaeri glanced down towards the sword on her hip. "My sword style was created with my summons in mind so there's that. It isn't complete yet though so don't expect me to use it anytime soon."

Huh, that made sense. Shinku once had the misfortune of seeing Yaeri practice with a sword and it looked unlike any style he's ever seen before. 

"When do ya think you'll get it done?" Eban asked as the rat finally began approaching him. 

"The sword style? Maybe a decade or two. It's not a style that can be created and mastered in a week or two."

Eban whistled, clearly impressed. "Wow, what is it about this style that's making it take so long to make? I would've thought five years at max."

Cupping the side of her cheek with her palm Yaeri glanced towards the cracked floor. "I'll tell you when I'm done."

"Yaeri-Chan!" He whined as the rat lay in his hands. "That's going to be ages. I might not even be alive to see it!"

"With your incompetent skills I'm sure you'll die well before it's creation as well."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence, Shinku. I'm really feeling the love."

Rolling his eyes Shinku turned on his heel as he prepared to leave. "Come on, let's just get this damn mission over and done with."

If he has to spend one more second with these two then he may go mad. 

Wrapping her arm around the other girls waist Yaeri uses her free hand to wave towards her brother who was in the middle of beating up a poor training dummy. To his credit the boy did stop his assault immediately after spotting her. 

"Ah, Imouto." Sakumo greets with a gently expression before turning towards the girl next to her. "It's nice to see you as well Inazuka-Sama."

Grinning wildly the Inazuka heiress gave her brother an approving glance before turning towards Yaeri and kissing her cheek. 

"Oh Yaeri, your brothers a right sissy. I know you said he was scrawny looking but that boys a noodle." She declares with a harsh laugh that quickly turns into a snarl when Yaeri dug her nails into the other girls side. "Alright alright, no insulting your precious Onii-Chan, I get it."

She wouldn't be saying that if she saw Sakumo take down three men twice his size in under a minute. 

Intaking a small breath that could be interpreted as a sigh the younger Hatake removed the pressure off of the Inazuka's side before giving her brother a tired look. 

"How long have you been training for?" She murmurs, eyeing the bruised training dummies with a no small amount of pity.

"Um, about that..."

"Six hours?" At the very least knowing him. 

"Yeah."

Well, so much for promising their mother to not train all the time like he so often tends to do. Itoi must be worried sick about him now. 

Humming in acknowledgment of his answer Yaeri lays her head on the Inazuka's shoulder before closing her eyes. 

"Babe, how long do you normally train for?" She asks the girl who was in the middle of yawn. 

"Oh, like an hour or two everyday. Sometimes less if I overwork myself or my pup." 

Huh, normal people's training schedules sure do sound mundane in comparison to the Hatake training regime of at least four hours everyday. No exceptions either, birthdays just mean you'll have to try and get it out of the way earlier on in the day so you can celebrate later. 

It gets a little tedious after a while. 

"Go home, Onii-Chan." 

He gives her a long, considering look before sighing. "After you Imouto. Okaa-Chan told me she hasn't seen you in a week."

"That's different." She counters quickly. "Neither me nor Okaa-Chan like each other so what's the point? Besides, it's not as though I'm training myself into an early grave."

Unlike you. 

Giving him one last look Yaeri lifts her head off of her girlfriends shoulder before waving him goodbye. 

"See you in a month." She declares, carefully ignoring the Inazuka's snort. 

"Do you have a mission?" He asks while tilting his head.

Yaeri shakes her head before turning her back to him. "Nah, I just don't want to see your ugly mug until then."

Closing her eyes tightly together Yaeri focuses intently towards the chakra she needed. 

"You still practicing, Hatake? It's been a good couple hours since you've started." The panda stated as it bit into the bamboo stick in its hand. "This technique won't come quick anyway, you may as well take a break."

Now the panda was starting to sound like her mother. A disturbing thought considering that they are nothing alike in their natures. Her summon had once shred a fully grown ninja apart with its bare hands. 

The worst her mother had done was throw a teapot against the wall when frustrated. 

Not bothering to open her eyes Yaeri continues meditating. "That may be the case." She agrees easily. "But that doesn't mean I have to wait so long in between practices. Besides, it's not like I have anything better to do in my spare time."

Scoffing the panda threw her an almost pitying look. "You need a hobby, no offence summoner but you have no life outside of being a baby killer."

"Kunoichi." She corrects absentmindedly. 

"Same thing."

Well, Yaeri couldn't argue against that. 

Finally opening her eyes the Hatake turned towards the summons with a curious expression. "Alright, any hobby suggestions then? I'm all ears."

The panda grinned towards her. "Cannibalism. Your species is especially interesting to cook."

Ah, she should've known better than to ask her summon. The panda was more vicious than any ninja she's ever encountered. 

"One that won't have me arrested."

"Oh, a boring hobby then." Tilting its head towards the side the panda bore a thoughtful look on its face. "How about drawing? You can't go wrong with that."

"I'll think about it."

Which is a polite way of saying that she never will. 

Creating another Genjutsu that was quickly dispelled almost as soon as it was casted, Eban let out a small huff in annoyance at his continuous failure to properly capture the Hatake in a Genjutsu. 

"How are you so good at releasing them Yaeri?" He whines as the girl reached into her pocket before placing a cigarette into her mouth. 

"You suck at Genjutsu, that's how." She responds bluntly as Shinku snorted. 

Rolling his eyes the Uchiha feels his stomach churn in disgust at the second hand smoke. 

"Aren't you a little young for that stuff?"

"Oh please, do I even need to say it?"

No, she didn't. They all knew the saying well by now. 'Old enough to kill, old enough to do whatever you like.' Which wasn't always true but Yaeri's case no one was going to stop her. 

Especially not her family who never really seemed to know where she was or what she was doing. 

"Where's your Inazuka girlfriend?" Shinku asks, a little annoyed. "She stole my kunai set."

Eban nods in sympathy. Those things are expensive god damn it. 

Shrugging her shoulders Yaeri removed the cigarette from her mouth as she spoke up. "Eh, we broke up, I don't know where that girl is now."

Ah, well, Eban shouldn't really be surprised. The Hatake never could keep a significant other for longer than a month after all. 

"What was it this time?"

Last time it had been "stopping the date half way through to start training" which...wow, Yaeri really should be banned from dating other people. 

"She didn't like how I kept disappearing every other day. Apparently it was getting 'annoying' whatever that means."

It meant exactly what the word entailed but then again Yaeri never had been one to care about her outward appearance to others. Being kind and considerate just wasn't in her vocabulary. 

Actually, if she did start being taking other peoples opinions into consideration Eban will call an exorcist. 

Plucking the cigarette out her hand he dropped it onto the ground before stomping it out. "We've got a mission and you know how Sensei hates smoking."

Not reacting to the now stamped out cigarette Yaeri sighs while rubbing the tips of her finger together, still feeling the phantom hold of the object. 

"Shinku, can you up beat Eban up for me?" She demands in retaliation for the slight against her. 

Cracking his knuckles a grim smile crossed the Yuhi's face at the suggestion. "With pleasure."

"H-hey now Shinku, we can talk this out, right-ow!"

Seeing her teammate get beat into the ground doesn't bring Yaeri any sort of vindictive pleasure, hell, she isn't even mad about the cigarette. She's just so damn tired. 

And bored. She's bored of it all. 

Saratobi Biwako eyed each one of her students carefully before letting a low, long-suffering sigh that can only mean that she's contemplating their deaths in the most gruesome fashion she can muster. 

"Though I could demote you all back into academy students I'd rather not fill out all the paperwork that comes with doing something like that." Snapping her fingers together she re-gains their zoned out attention. "Little brats, do you know what you've done?"

"Fought a team of Iwa nin and won valiantly?" Eban asks sheepishly before a fierce glare was sent his way.

"No." Well, actually yes but that isn't the main focus. "You fought a student of the Tsuchikage who we're aright on bad terms with. Do you really think they won't use this against us?"

"Biwako-Sensei, with alder respect the Ninja have yet to leave the area." Yaeri points out while gestures towards the faint Chakra signatures. 

Unconscious and horribly beaten, yes, but not dead nor escaped. 

"We can kill them and hide this incident."

Shinku gaped towards her as Eban looked at her as though she suggested world domination. 

Biwako, however, looked down right furious. 

"That is precisely against the peace our ancestors worked so hard to provide." She snaps, looking disturbed by the idea. "Yaeri, you will undergo a psych-evaluation as soon as we get back to Konoha."

Ah, well, that's what she gets for trying to be helpful. 

She shrugs absentmindedly while giving the unconscious Ninja one last look. Lucky bastards, they get to live for another day. 

"Don't come complaining to me when Iwa declares a war on us after tensions rise higher because of this."

Even if the ninja did attack them first. 

Yaeri likes peace, well, the weird truce that can't really be called peace. Sometimes harsh decisions are going to be needed to maintain it, especially when so many ache for war and madness to take ahold of them all again. 

But still, it seems as though this is a decision more obvious to future generations who have insight into the situation then the people of now. 

Nothing is as obvious as everyone likes to think it is and people who would've said she was right in her thinking would only say so after the consequences become apparent. Nobody would say she's right at the minute when they can see that their so called 'enemies' are a bunch of brats. 

Oh well, hindsight will always leave people wondering about what ifs. Yaeri just thinks further than others, it's not her fault they can't see the bigger picture.

"There won't be a war." Biwako states firmly, her confidence unwavering as though she spoke nothing but the truth. 

Whatever helps her sleep at night. 

Kicking her feet onto the desk Yaeri yawns into her hand. Being benched is the worst. Luckily, her father sees this as a great insult to his character and is doing his best to throw her back onto the field as soon as possible.

A soft knock sounds from behind the door to her temporary Yamanaka provided psyche room. 

"Come in." She commands before pausing. "But if you're that Yamanaka bastard that's issuing my psyche results beware that I'm armed and ready to kill you."

The door clicked open to reveal...not a Yamanaka, that's for certain. Yaeri vaguely recognises this man. 

"Shimura-Sama." The Hatake greets with a nod, not bothering to get up from her seat. "What can I do for you?"

"Yaeri-San." He spoke up with a blank expression that could even rival her fathers. 

Danzo didn't look all that annoyed at her blatant disregard for greetings and instead placed a piece of paper onto the table. 

Picking it up Yaeri read the contents with mild interest before blinking. 

"A permission form to join...Root?" She let the name sink into her brain before shaking her head. "What a creative name."

Konoha. Trees. Roots. Everything in this village is plant based. This is why everyone calls them tree huggers, nobody enjoys nature puns like a Konoha citizen. 

"You'll be one of the first members to join the organisation." Danzo explains solemnly. "I read your psyche report and don't disagree with the assessment you put forth. Sometimes, harsh decisions need to be made that others simply aren't willing to do."

True but still, if Danzo's agreeing with her then maybe Yaeri had the wrong idea. That man isn't always the brightest. 

Still, he's young and (not really) optimistic. He probably isn't as insane as he could be just yet. Certainly not enough to order an entire Clans death, that's for sure. 

"What does this organisation even do?" 

"It'll focus on maintaining the peace." The Shimura explains while focusing his gaze right above her head. "We will go through with the harsh decisions even Anbu won't touch because no matter what, they don't set aside their emotions for the mission even when they should."

Yaeri closes her eyes in thought. "Are you asking me to forgo my emotions to join your group? As a Kunoichi I do that regardless so there's really no point to this."

Root isn't a good idea, that much she can evaluate with this conversation. Having a bunch of nut jobs who don't care for others all under one roof is a recipe for disaster. 

"Not completely." Oh? "For example I'll give you a mission. Go see to it and report the results to me. You'll see the value of this group soon."

Ah, ok, yeah, Yaeri is now intrigued. 

Leaning forward the girl stares at Shimura with mild interest present in her eyes. 

"What's the mission?"

The look he gave her could only be described as cold. "You along with your team will enter Tobirama-Sensei's new tests, the Chunin exams. Other nations will join and so will the Takikage's grandson."

"He's the target?" Yaeri tilts her head in thought. "Alright, I accept so long as the rewards match the mission."

"Rest assured, you will be compensated accordingly for the mission. I will personally ensure it."

Even if this does turn out to be some treasonous ploy to force her out of the village or cause a war it doesn't matter. Yaeri really doesn't care. This mission seems fun so she'll accept and there's nothing else to it. 

Shimura can dance and dance around his little mind games all he likes, she isn't going to stop him. That being said if this really is something against her then...

She'll kill him. 

"I can't believe they let you out of there so quickly." Eban states, his eyes shining brightly as a sharingan spins around in them. "And they let you enter the Chunin exams. That's such obvious favouritism it's unfair."

Yes well, nepotism does make the world go around. The Uchiha will learn soon, as is necessary for someone of his heritage. 

"It's long overdue in any case. We should've been field promoted by now considering we've been Genin for three years already but the international Chunin exams was highly anticipated upon so it had been delayed." Shinku murmured as Eban zoned out halfway through his ramblings. "Sixteen year old Genin sounds a bit..."

Since the graduation age is fourteen with little to no exceptions even if the student was a prodigy. Being at this rank for two years isn't too bad. In fact, it's almost to be expected for the experience since Chunin are to lead missions. 

Still, she can understand the frustration, had it been the Warring States each one of them would be on solo missions right about now. 

"Shinku-San, how are the targets?" 

"Already in my Genjutsu, they won't be able dispel it for quite a while after the beating you gave them."

Humming lightly, Yaeri hands both scrolls to her teammates. 

"You both go on ahead, I have something that I want to do. I'll meet you at the tower in a couple hours."

Eban gives her a dubious look before sighing. "Well, I can't stop you. Just don't cause an international incident, 'kay?"

"I'll try."

Not all that hard but she will. It's the least she can do after taking the last of his water. Not that he knows that yet but hey, at least Yaeri is trying. 

"Oh yeah, Shinku," the boy turned towards her with an annoyed expression, "make sure Eban doesn't die. Knowing him he'll probably run into a bear trap and get eaten by a rival team who's running low on food."

"Hey!" The Uchiha squawked indignantly. "I would not."

"I'll try my best but no promises. Keeping him alive with your help is hard enough but now the endeavour may be impossible." Shinku sighs in mock sadness. 

"There's no way I'd die so easily! I'm strong I tell ya! Strong!"

"Maybe you could rival my pinky but you aren't any sort of challenge Eban, I'm sorry to break it to you." 

Hissing curses under his breath Eban flipped them both off before storming away.

Shinku rolled his eyes before giving her one last look. "Stay safe, Yaeri."

"You too, Shinku."

There was a pause before both Ninja disappeared into the trees. 

Crossing her legs Yaeri waits patiently as her summons assesses the situation at hand. Obviously, the Takikage's grandchild wouldn't come unprotected and with this being the first international Chunin exams casualties are to be expected, especially with such high tensions. 

In other words, this is an exercise to release everyone's anger which is why anyone can kill anyone else so long as it is in the Forest of Death. This is a war simulation and they all know it. 

"Have you found the Chakra signatures?" Yaeri asks her summon who grumbles an affirmative. 

The panda opened its pure black eyes before snarling towards her. "Child, that target of yours is..."

"Stronger than me? That's fine, I can still overpower them if you help me." Yaeri is confident that a Genin wouldn't be able to beat a summon like the panda's without a summon of their own. 

Which may be the case so she must remain weary.

Shaking its head the panda continued to wear a grave expression on its face. "That boy has a Kekkei Genkai. One that allows the user to meddle with a persons mind if what I'm sensing is true."

"Like a Yamanaka?"

It'd be bad either way. Anyone that can manipulate someone's mind is to always to be treat as the second most dangerous person there. The first being a medic who just doesn't know how to stay down.

"Almost, but I think it's more than that. It seems as though the boy doesn't separate his own mind but rather his comrades."

That's...

"Damn it." Yaeri tilts her head back as it thuds off of the tree. "I need a smoke."

"You're a child, you shouldn't be smoking anything."

Even a goddamn animal is judging her. How the mighty have fallen. 

"Like that stopped...Hiruzen, was it? I heard his Tou-San gave him his first cigarette at like six because he wouldn't stop crying after his Kaa-San died."

There's a reason Sarutobi Sasuke isn't remembered for his stellar parenting. Neither will Hiruzen once he finally decides to have a brat of his own but that's a story for another time. 

Konoha has so many responsible parents, it's just that Ninja don't make up that population often. Her father, for example, once threw Sakumo at an assassin to see how well he'd do against an enemy-nin. 

Not in the, sit back and see what happens type of way, no, he literally threw his firstborn at the assassin and said have at it. How her brother survived that one was mystery. 

Though Yaeri can't really say much since not a week after the same thing happened to her. What a memorable way to have a first kill. 

"You're all crazy." The panda decides with a grin. "But that's fine, more insane people just gives me extra interesting opponents."

Taking in a deep breath Yaeri readies herself before getting up from the cold, wet ground. Enough dawdling, she has a Ninja to kill. 

Hovering in the treetops the Hatake spots her target sitting in between two girls who seemed to be there more because they were pretty than any actual skill. But as the saying goes, never judge a book by its cover. 

The bodyguards seemed to be another team with two muscular men and a woman with battle scars riddled across her face. 

Damn, those can't be Genin. There's absolutely no way. 

Eyeing her summon they both nod towards each other before the panda jumps down onto one the men, crushing him instantly. 

While their attention was diverted Yaeri jumped for the target who was staring agape at his fallen solider. 

Just before she could reach him one of the women by his side grabbed her arm and threw her into a tree. 

Oh, so they could fight. Not surprising but certainly more troubling for her. 

Blocking an attack from one the girls she dodges another strike from behind as the other girl leaps for her while she was distracted. Jumping up into the air Yaeri quickly kicks them both before leaping back for the target who seemed to be in the middle of using his Kekkei Genkai. 

Yaeri used a kunai to stab through his heart as a garbled gasp sound out from between his lips before falling back into the tree. 

Turning around she quickly stabbed into the hand that was reaching for her before using her free hand to slit the girls throat. Leaving the kunai in the girls hand she focused on her remaining kunai before leaping at the final Kunoichi who froze upon seeing her teammates dead bodies. 

This final death was the easiest, no struggle until it was far too late. 

Looking over to her summon Yaeri immediately notices the body of one the Ninja in its mouth. It seems like the panda was done. 

"Are you enjoying your meal?" She asks nonchalantly while trying to remove her second kunai from the girls hand. 

Not really expecting a reply Yaeri finally managed to remove the weapon. 

Suddenly, a large fist cracked into her back as all the air from her lung's completely left her. Smacking straight into the tree in front of her she groans before quickly dodging another attack. 

Her once panda summoning dug out its fist from the ground she sat on before turning to her with a snarl pressed across its features. 

Only...

That was most definitely not her summons now.

Quickly manoeuvring through hand signs Yaeri dodges another fist by the skin of her teeth before finally completing the hand signs. Not a second later the panda was gone in a poof of smoke as she reverse summoned it back to its domain. 

Wiping the blood that dripped from the corner of her mouth Yaeri looked over to the Kunoichi whose throat she slit before gazing back to the original target. It seems like neither died immediately which gave the boy enough time to transfer the girls mind into her panda. 

Hopefully, her other summons can remove the girls mind from the panda. It'd be troublesome to look for another main summon that was as bloodthirsty as that one. 

Either way it doesn't matter now, that final move was just a desperate wish of a dying boy to take down his murders. How sad, his wish hadn't been fulfilled. 

"Well," she murmured while kicking the boys corpse, "it's seems like I've got a bit of a problem now."

What's the best way to frame another nation for this death? It seems like Yaeri is going to find out the answer to that very soon. 

"I don't know why he had to die, no offence Shimura-Sama." The Hatake finally says after giving him her report. "It's not that I feel guilty about it but rather that I don't see the point. Death is all well and good however killing high profile individuals just because we can is incredibly foolish."

Danzo didn't move from his desk as he continued to scribble something onto what she assumed is paperwork. 

"That boy, what did you learn about him?"

"I'm not answering your riddles, Shimura-Sama." She didn't accept that mission just to be given questions. "Please answer me."

Pausing half way through his writing Danzo suddenly looked up towards her. "He could transfer his allies minds into enemies, correct?"

"Well yes but I don't see how that has anything to do with his death."

If they killed everyone with a slightly powerful Kekkei Genkai then they'd be back in the Warring States. Surely, Danzo must know this. 

"He is limited by his Chakra reserves, like so many others with Kekkei Genkai's." He continues, seemingly determined to ignore her. "That boy was to be the Nanabi's Jinchuriki. What do you think would happen then?"

Ah, well, someone with that power gaining a seemingly infinite amount of Chakra was troubling. Even so they gave a literal Uzumaki the Kyubi so she doesn't see how this is as troubling as that. 

"The only other candidate was a civilian child. The Nanabi apparently insisted that it couldn't be anyone other than those two."

Oh, that actually made more sense then. 

In a village were many people are bound to have Kekkei Genkai there is a high possibility that they could've just gave it to someone else with a Kekkei Genkai but if it's the Nanabi whose notorious for getting along with their Jinchuriki then...

They'd obviously comply with the beasts request if only so they could utilise their full strength. 

"Are you going to kill the civilian too?" If he did then the Nanabi may not comply with their Jinchuriki after that. 

"We'll see." He replied, expertly ignoring her question. 

Now if that isn't a polite way of saying 'mind your own business' then she doesn't know what is.

"Your Root still isn't all that different from your Sensei's Anbu." Yaeri just can't see the point behind this. Anyone else could've done the job with as little hesitation if they were from that group. 

Realistically, Root is just an extension from Anbu that holds no other purpose then repressing emotions more than the other group. 

"Of course they'd be similar." Danzo confirms with a nod. "But that's not all. Do you truly believe everyone in this village would lay down their lives for it?"

"Certainly not everyone but I assume many would considering the peace we've got is highly favoured above war." Her father wouldn't but Sakumo definitely would. 

As always, father and son are both polar opposites. 

"Yes, but it won't stay that way unless we maintain it." He slides a paper across the table as Yaeri picks it up to read. "That boy wanted war. A Jinchuriki, a being with unrivalled power, wanted war. If people like that are left to live then we can't, in good conscience, say that we have gave it our all to maintain peace."

And...well, she sees his point. That boys death may have just prevented many more. 

Sliding the paper back onto the table Yaeri gives Danzo an analysing look. "So can you do it, Shimura-Sama? Can you always be able to tell who should and shouldn't die just because of speculation?"

His lips purse together forming a thin line. "No. No I cannot. But tell me this Yaeri-San, if I don't do it then who will? I won't wait for the death of our own just because of something like speculation."

Because in the end no one will listen until it's too late. It is why there must be someone to make the hard decisions no one else wants to do. 

Letting out a small scoff Yaeri shakes her head. "Honestly, Shimura-Sama? I agree with what you say but I can't put my faith in your leadership. The path you walk on is a dark one and I still posses far too much humanity to follow it."

Root is an organisation destined to bite off more than they can chew. Danzo can delude himself into believing that it won't happen but someone playing judge, jury and executioner holds too much power that will eventually go to their heads and cause his inevitable downfall. 

So yes, Anbu won't always go after speculation because they know that it's not right. It'll lead to an eventual revolt, no matter how much loyalty they hold. Peace is only peace when innocents aren't dying after all. 

But ninja specifically designed for this wouldn't hold such reservations. Killing a couple people to maintain peace is just a fact of life.

"Then we are in disagreement." Danzo doesn't look displeased but he certainly doesn't seem happy about it either. "My invitation will always be open."

"And my help will sometimes be in service to you." She closes her eyes. "Truly, I do think your words hold merit but I won't fully commit to this idea. A couple missions that you wouldn't trust to others is fine to ask of me."

"I'll keep that in mind." Before she could turn to leave the Shimura spoke up one last time. "And Yaeri-San?"

"Yes, Shimura-Sama?"

"Congratulations on your promotion."

Her green vest suddenly felt much heavier than before as she gave him a nod of gratitude. "Thank you, Shimura-Sama."

And with that the door shut close with a soft click.

"Did you hear? Uchiha Madara returned to Konoha last night! Apparently the Shodai Hokage is facing him as we speak!"

"Bah! That darn Uchiha! Our Hokage will show him whose boss!"

"Aye, who do ya think you are?! Madara-Sama may be a traitor but as a Uchiha he's far more capable than that Senju!"

"Lies! Hashirama-Sama will certainly triumph against that traitor! And who do think you are anyway to be siding with that man? I bet you're conspiring with him!"

"Why you little--"

Yaeri blinked at the random Senju and Uchiha who had begun fighting in the middle of the bar. Well, it seems like no matter the era both Clan's have no reservations when it comes to beating each other bloody. 

Looking over towards the bartender she passed him some cash. "For the damages." Yaeri explains as the man nods. 

Because Sage knew neither Senju nor Uchiha will be conscious enough to pay for the damages once all is said and done. From the kindness of her heart she'll take over on the responsibility before blackmailing the money back out of the two. 

"It's old news." The man stated while cleaning the glass in his hand. "The battle between the two has already come to a conclusion."

Her eyes sharpen. "Oh?"

"Yes, and it seems as though Uchiha Madara has fallen." He declares with a firm expression. 

Ah, that absolute certainty. Yaeri wonders what face he'd make if he knew the truth. The truth being that Madara wasn't dead. 

That he was coming for all of their heads, a fact that wouldn't change no matter how much time passes. 

That in the end, they'll all be too weak to stop him if it wasn't for the whims of a Goddesses son. And whether that son was the Sage or Zetsu...well, who's to truly say?

Chapter Text

Disgustingly bright lights glared down towards the crowd of people who were dragged along to celebrate the birth of the youngest Senju grandchild of Hashirama. It was a breeding ground of political remarks as everyone and their mothers seemed to have been invited.

Even the lightening daimyo's second son seems to have graced them all with his presence despite being a notorious village-opposer. He believes all the common folk should keep to themselves and Shinobi are quick hires that are nothing but barbarians. 

What a gentleman. 

Sometimes Yaeri has to wonder if they ever get tired of all the false facades. Surely, no one could possibly enjoy talking solely in double meanings. Though knowing these twisted people maybe they do. The Yamanaka Matriarch seemed to have no reservations with both mentally and verbally tearing down her opponents.

Even her ever elegant mother seemed to have no qualms with giving a Hyuga Elder a good verbal lashing for using the wrong form of holding a spoon. A reprimand that Yaeri herself was on the receiving end of many times so she couldn’t help but feel sympathy for them. 

Sipping on the fruit punch that Eban had kindly brought her Yaeri wonders if she could just leave through the window. Perhaps her mother wouldn't notice her disappearance. 

"I hate it here." Eban whines while clinging to her arm. "The baby we came to see isn't even present. What is the whole point of this little get together if not for Nawaki-Sama?"

"To mentally challenge our wills and see who murders someone else first." Was her immediate response. 

With the way things are going it'd probably little Tsunade murdering her grandfather. Hashirama has been shamelessly swindling the four year old out of her pocket money for the entirety of the celebrations and will soon get what's coming to him. 

What the Shodai Hokage didn't know was that his granddaughter was stealing back his earning while he wasn't looking. Though maybe he did and was just letting her out of guilt for trying his best to out gamble a four year old.  

"This would've been better if Shinku was here. At least then we could've made our own entertainment but noooo. He just had to accept a stupid mission." Eban whined as though a great injustice had occurred.

“Just ask Hashirama-Sama for weed if you’re that bored. Sage knows how much he grows.”

She’s walked into the Hokage’s office before Tobirama took over once. Yaeri was out of it for a full day after that from fumes alone. That has to be illegal somehow.

The Uchiha gaped at the thought of asking the Hokage for something like that before jumping into a rant on how he wouldn’t ask a Senju for anything. 

Tuning out the rest of the boys ramblings Yaeri makes eye contact with the Hyuga heir. He looked very pretty, maybe she could just ditch Eban and talk with him. 

As if sensing her thoughts Eban clutched onto her arm harder so that she couldn't slip out of his grasp. 

"Oh no you don't, we're going to stay here and be miserable together!"

"If you love me then you'd want me to be free."

"Then it's a good thing I don't love ya. Now sit down Riri-Chan, we're going to talk about how I'm going to get back at my ex for dumping me while meeting my parents!"

Ah, that new nickname...Yaeri can't say she's very pleased by it. 

Before she could protest the Hatake was dragged half way across the hall towards the food area so that they could plan murder on a full stomach.

Setting down her glass Yaeri grabs a macaroon that had been brought by a Suna envoy.

"So what's the plan? Do you want him buried or something?"

Eban grabbed a handful of sweets before stuffing them down his throat. "Nah, that bastard deserves worse. I mean, who breaks up with someone in front of their parents?!"

Nodding in agreement Yaeri bites into the macaroon as she thinks of appropriate payback. 

"I mean...I could date him myself and break up with him in the same way."

"Oooo~ ok, I like it, that way he'll know how I felt. I'm also pretty sure he doesn't know much about you either since his family only recently moved to Konoha." Eban then pauses as he suddenly remembers something. "Oh yeah, he's a Shinobi if that means anything."

"Hm, alright, that's fine. The real question is on if he even likes women."

It'll certainly throw a wretch in their plans if he doesn't. 

The Uchiha blinked as if that had just occurred to him before groaning. "Ugh, he doesn't! I remember that he once said he'd never date one."

Ah, well there's the answer to that. 

Finishing off her macaroon Yaeri shrugged. "Then I suppose you'll just have to get Shinku-San to do it. And if he refuses then just ask Onii-Chan. Mine or yours are suitable options.”

Grinning like a madman Eban slapped her back. "Thanks for the advice Riri-Chan. I'll tell you how everything plays out in exchange, 'kay?"

Rolling her eyes the girl quickly agrees. "Sure, throw in a kiss while you're at it."

Letting out laugh Eban kisses the side of her cheek before running off to go bother one of his kinsmen that were unfortunate enough to be caught in his line of sight. 

She almost pities them.

Suddenly, Yaeri moves to the left after grabbing another glass of fruit punch as a ball of pure energy crashes into the food table. 

Raising an eyebrow she looks over towards Hashirama who was freaking out about the fact that his granddaughter had just disposed of the envoys gifted food. 

"Tsuna!" The man calls as he quickly grabs the girl who was in the middle of crying her eyes out. "Where are you hurt?! Tell Jiji, he'll make it all better for you!"

Letting out a small scoff Yaeri watches on as envoys begin to surround the table. 

Uzumaki Mito quickly makes her way over, looking as young and elegant as the day she first entered Konoha. No other woman- no, everyone in the room could really compare to her beauty in Yaeri's opinion

"We're very sorry for Tsunade-Hime's actions." She apologises on behalf of the Senju. "Please rest assured that we'll salvage as much food as possible."

A couple envoys stuck around to argue as Yaeri moved away from the mayhem. Making her way over to her brother who was in the middle of what she assumes is rejecting a poor girl the younger Hatake waved towards her brother. 

"Onii-Chan." She greets before turning her attention towards the girl. "Ah, Aburame-Sama, it's nice to see you again."

The girl gave her a bug like stare. "I can't say the same. Why? Because you've just stood on one of my Kikaichu."

Lifting up her shoe from the ground a small bug did indeed fly away upon being released. 

Yaeri gave the girl a blank look. "Now we both know damn well that your bug could've just moved. If not then maybe your Clan should be training their Kikaichu to be more competent."

Snarling towards her the Aburame turned on her heel and left the two alone. 

Sakumo gave the girl a pitying glance before turning to her. "Imouto, what do you want?"

"I'm just telling you that I'm leaving. If Okaa-San tries to find me just tell her not to bother."

"She'd like it if you'd stay Imouto." Sakumo tries, his eyes pleading in attempt to stop her from going. 

Turning her head away Yaeri downs the last of her punch before shoving the glass into his hands. 

"I don't care."

Wrapping a white cloak around her shoulders Yaeri feels the patter of rain skitter across the back of the cloak as she watches the scene with a complete lack of interest. Eban and Shinku stood by her side and while the Yuuhi tried his best to remain silent it was getting more and more harder to do as the Uchiha continued to poke him every five seconds. 

Little Tsunade was sobbing her eyes out as they lowered the casket into the ground. Though Yaeri is fairly certain there isn't an actual body in there and the real Hashirama was buried somewhere unknown to the public. 

But even as the strongest Shinobi of their time had passed not many were truly grieving. No, everyone was far more interested in the newly established Uchiha Police Force or in other words the UPF. 

"It's not good to give those people so much power in our day to day lives."

"Agreed, we shouldn't give them so much power, especially after what happened with that traitor."

"Oi!" Eban yelled towards the two. "You better shut your goddamn mouth before I come over there and do it for you!"

As expected the two quickly shut up. 

Shinku snorts at the scene. "So quick to judge others but cannot handle confrontation. Truly, some people are just so pathetic."

Zoning out the rest of the conversation as Eban started talking again Yaeri's eyes fixed onto the newly widowed Uzumaki Mito. 

The rain didn't seem to have an effect on her as she stood without an umbrella with only traditional black mourning robes covering her. Mito's face was carefully blank as nothing but a single tear rolled down her face while her hands clutch onto Tsunade's shaking shoulders. 

She was breathtakingly beautiful even when her world was crashing down. 

Strolling into the training ground Eban pressed his face against Yaeri's shoulder since he insisted on a piggyback ride after breaking his leg. Actually, he's just fine but it gives him a excuse not to walk so there's that. 

Looking over to the occupants of the training ground Eban waved towards his older brother. "Waido-Nii!"

Upon hearing his younger brothers yell the Uchiha hid behind his teammate who just so happened to be Hatake Sakumo. 

Yaeri blinked. "It seems as though your brother doesn't like you." She declares dryly. 

"Nah, he loves me, he just doesn't show it." Eban states, though not as confidently as he'd normally have as the memory of his brother pushing him down a flight of stairs replayed in his memories. 

It was average older sibling behaviour and he won't hear anything against that. 

"Imouto, Eban-Kun." Sakumo greets the two with a soft smile. "How nice of you to visit, are you also training?"

At that Sakumo's female teammate, Umino Kohari, scoffed. "If that's the case then run along brats. We don't need runts like you mucking around this field."

"Well if you actually listened instead of jumping to conclusions," Yaeri gave the woman a pointed look, "then you'd know we are merely retrieving our brothers at our parents request."

Both boys look crestfallen at that, the idea of stopping their training to attend to family matters weighing heavy on them. 

Waido sighed before picking up a fallen kunai that he was practicing with earlier. "We'll have to cut this session short then. Let's meet up tomorrow at the same time."

"Sure." Kohari agreed at the same time as Sakumo. 

Eban gave his older brother an odd look. "I didn't know you still practiced with your teammates Waido-Nii."

He shrugged. "I don't have to tell you everything I do Otouto. And get off of Yaeri-San's back, you look weak." Waido stated in a cold tone. 

There was a tense silence as Eban did so while grinding his teeth together. 

Yaeri and Sakumo both shared a quick look before nodding. It's best they don't allow the siblings to be left alone, clearly, neither of them got along. 

The Yamanaka clicked her pen in her hand as she quickly scribbled something down. 

"So, Hatake Yaeri, why do you think you need therapy?" She asks with a perfectly neutral tone that has the Hatake cringe. 

"Well, I don't but Okaa-San thinks I do so here I am."

"Ah, then you're only here at your Okaa-San's request." The blonde gives her a small smile. "Do you love your Okaa-San?"

Yaeri grabs a lollypop from the table and mulls over answer while removing the wrapper. 

"I feel something for her, that's for certain."

"But not love. Or maybe you don't identify what you feel as love." She notice before writing down something onto her sheet. 

Placing the lolly into her mouth Yaeri shrugs. "Your the specialist, whatever you say goes."

"Actually, the whole point of therapy is-"

"-dooon't care." Yaeri leans back onto the couch. "Let's just get this over and done with, the sooner the better."

She's just managed a breakthrough on her sword form. This whole therapy nonsense was a colossal waste of time. 

Clicking her tongue on the roof of her mouth the Yamanaka shook her head. "For the results to truly be successful both sides need to be cooperating with each other Yaeri-San."

Biting down hard on the lolly she feels it shatter in her mouth as Yaeri levels the woman with a blank stare. 

"How's this for cooperation? I don't want to be here, this entire idea sucks and I'm hungry. Those are my feelings, not something that needs to be fixed like my Okaa-San likes to believe."

A sharp glint appeared in the other woman's eyes. "You believe your Okaa-San thinks you're defective." The woman states as though she'd uncovered something great. 

There was a deafening silence before Yaeri grabbed her bag and made way for the door. 

They were done here. 

Eban screeches upon seeing his Hatake teammate making out with one of his kinsmen. 

"Riri-Chan, what the actual hell?! I told you that my Clan was off limits you bastard!"

Parting lips from the boy next to her Yaeri shrugs as Eban storms up to her. "That was before you made a pass at Onii-Chan. You flirt with my family then I'll flirt with yours."

"Wait so you only kissed me because Eban-San flirted with your brother?" The Uchiha shot her a vicious glare. "I thought we had something special."

At that Eban almost feels a twinge of guilt for his fellow kinsmen. Almost, because he should've known what he was getting into when Yaeri approached him. That girl has never had a single long lasting relationship and everyone knows it. 

Storming away from the two Yaeri sighed before reaching for a cigarette. 

"I don't know what he expected. I literally told him that this entire relationship was for revenge and he's still surprised." The Hatake grumbled as she placed the cancer stick into her mouth. "You mind lighting this up?"

Letting out a huff Eban used a small fire Jutsu to light up the cigarette before scratching the back of his neck. 

"So we're even now, right?"

"Sureee~" Yaeri gazed up into the sky as she leans back onto the park bench. "Just don't flirt with Onii-Chan again."

Nodding his head Eban plopped himself down next to her. "Does he even like men? He didn't seem to have any interest in me."

"Hell if I know, we don't really talk about things like that." A cough escapes her throat as she quickly stamps out the cigarette. 

A thick bloom of smoke comes out between each cough before it eventually subsides. 

"You should stop smoking." Eban states as he pats her back. 

Shooting him an undecipherable look Yaeri scoffed. "Why? It's not like it'll kill me before an assassin does."

The average lifespan for a ninja is twenty five even in this era of peace. Or at least, it is for a Hatake. Even if they buried themselves into the depths of the village the assassination attempts will never stop. 

"Please~" he tries again with an airy voice, "if you loved me you would."

Suddenly remembering Nawaki's birth celebration Yaeri decides to get a little payback. 

"Then it's a good thing I don't love you."

When Yuuhi Shinku woke up this morning he thought today would be a good day. He thought a day without missions would leave him feeling rejuvenated. But of course, such a thing could never be.

Although maybe he should be counting his blessings since it could be worse. Shinku meeting his fiancé at a restaurant isn't the most gut wrenching way to spend his free time but it's up there. 

"Sooo~" the girl starts as she places down her tea, "great weather we're having."

Oh god no, Shinku can't do this today.

"I suppose so." He agrees rather blandly. "Have missions been well?"

"Ah, yes they have. And you?"

"The same as always."

"I see."

Silence. An awkward, gut wrenching silence filled the room as Shinku contemplated jumping out of the window. It'd probably be less painful than this entire situation.

Quietly sipping on his drink to prevent eye contact with the girl Shinku finds an unlikely saviour in the form of...his teammates.

"Shinku!" Eban cried out as he toppled into his chest, spilling juice all over them. "Why are you out here with this hag? What about Riri-Chan?! How am I meant to raise her alone when you're out here living it up with some woman when you have a husband and daughter at home!"

His poor fiancé's jaw dropped as Shinku felt a tick mark appear on his forehead. 

"You idiot!" He yelled before hitting the other boy across the head. 

"Agh!" Eban cried out in pain as he clutched his head. "And now you're smacking me too!" Tears welled up in his eyes. "You really have fallen out of love with me!"

Yaeri watched the scene from a distance before slowly pulling her hood up so nobody thinks she's with these idiots. 

"Enough!" The girl screamed as both ninja looked towards the crying maiden. "Shinku-San, if you love a man then I won't stop you from being with your lover. And to think you have a daughter at home! Take more responsibility before betraying your family!" 

And with that she turned on her heel to leave. 

Shinku began strangling Eban the second she was out of sight. Yaeri sighed before following the girl, leaving her like that wouldn't weigh well on her conscience. 

The Hatake spotted her in the alleyway behind the restaurant taking a smoke. Yaeri takes in a minute to admire the girls long pink hair and shining green eyes. Shinku sure was lucky, she was beautiful. 

Taking out her own cigarette Yaeri leans on the wall next to her. "You got a lighter?"

Blinking slowly the girl nodded before passing her one. "Yeah, sure."

"Thanks." Yaeri nods before speaking back up. "You alright? I saw what happened back there."

Snorting slightly the girl shook her head. "It's fine, I know Shinku-San isn't involved with that man nor does he have a daughter. That dinner was just so awkward that I needed an out." She smiles. "You're Yaeri-Chan, right? I'm Taura."

"Nice to meet you, Taura-San." Yaeri hands her back the lighter. 

"The pleasure is all mine." Taura craned her head up to look at the Hatake. "Shinku-San is a good man but he doesn't know how to communicate. Neither do I for that matter so it makes conversations between us hard.”

Well, no one ever said Shinku was the most sociable of the group. 

"He'll grow on you." The Hatake huffs as smoke flows out through her nose. "Just tease him, Eban-San does that and it seems to be working just fine for him."

Taura smiles. "Maybe I will. Thank you for the advice Yaeri-Chan."

"No problem." She says before letting her eyes fix on a particular crack in the wall. 

At least Shinku seems to be doing well for himself in his relationship despite it being arranged. That's far more than Yaeri can ever say about hers. 

It takes everything in him not to behead the woman where she stood as she continued to pick out the most obnoxious outfits she could find. If his fiancé is anything like his handmaiden then he'll have to kill her.

"I've seen enough." The man stared coldly. "That yukata over there will do."

Freezing in place the woman suddenly bows. "Of course. Raiden-Sama."

Placing his cheek on his fist he watches the scene with cold eyes. Raiden Nakao, second son to the lightning daimyo, was to be wed to some wench from a disgraced Clan. If this wasn't a creative insult from his insufferable brother then he doesn't know what is. 

"You." He addresses to one of his attendants. "Tell this venerable One what his fiancé is like."

Bowing low the man who he asked the question to spoke. "Hatake Yaeri is a woman who has recently turned eighteen. She is known to be rather promiscuous but since the engagement has formally been announced such behaviour has since stopped."

"Most likely not behind closed doors though." Nakao murmured before turning back to the attendant. "And her skill as a Kunoichi? Sage knows that's her only saving grace."

"As it stands Hatake Yaeri has recently made Jonin and two years prior had made Chunin. Her summons are said to be panda's and her skill mostly lays within a sword. Though as it stands Ninjutsu is one of her greatest failures."

Not too bad, Nakao was honestly expecting worse. 

"This venerable One sees." Tapping the side of his cheek in thought Nakao cocks his head to the side. 

They can make use of her as a Samurai during public excursions. It'll make the court seem more human to the peasants if a member of the Raiden fought on the battlefield. Obviously, she shouldn't be seen actually fighting, as it is undignified for a woman of her standing, but being around for show works just as well. 

"What do the Hatake and Raiden gain from such an engagement? This venerable One wasn't at the meeting so he does not know."

"Ah, in exchange of the assassination attempts stopping the Hatake will come back to court." The attendant states as a bead of sweat trickles down his forehead.

Nakao's eyes narrow. That man hadn't been one he's seen before now that he thinks about it. His brother must've planted him then. 

He smirks. Maybe this will be the perfect opportunity to being down his brother once and for all. Or maybe the war will kill her and his marriage gets to be halted for a couple more years, either way Nakao is the only one who will win in the end. 

A solemn air flooded Konoha as a contrast to the radiant sun that beamed down towards them. Not a single rain cloud, though it'd suit the situation if they were to appear. 

Eban lay his head on her lap as they stared up from the rooftop towards the Hokage tower. Shinku sat next to his fiancé who seemed to be trying her best not to jump down towards the crowd. 

Tobirama adjusted his Hokage hat as he stared down towards the masses. "Citizens of Konohagakure, it is with a heavy heart that I must inform you of a grave incident that has occurred." The man suddenly paused as his face turned pained. "Kumogakure has declared war on us as of seven hours ago."

Huh, so not Iwa? Well, Yaeri certainly is surprised. 

Shooting up from his relaxed position Eban's Sharingan span wildly in his eyes as looks towards the three of them, a mixture of disbelief and anger marred across his face. 

"What the hell does he mean we're at war?!" The Uchiha snarled. "It's the whole point of this village's creation there would be no more war!"

"Right?!" Shinku yelled back, looking equally as frustrated as the other man. "This goes against everything we wanted! We were never meant to see war, what the hell is this?!"

"Oh, please." Yaeri rolled her eyes. "You guys actually believe that we could be stable for longer than thirty years? I mean, that certainly was a feat, but everyone has been power hungry since the villages have been created. The status quo was bound to be broken."

As expected, Yaeri's opinion was ignored. 

Taura's brows furrow together as she gains a concerned look. "We need to start preparing."

The Yuuhi blinks before nodding. "Right, we need to stock up on food and quick while the Hokage is still explaining things."

Ah, well, Yaeri won't have to. Her father has been planning for war since...actually, he's always been prepared. The amount of canned food hidden around their compound attributes to that.

"Well, have fun with that, I'm going to get some answers." Eban waves before jumping off of the building. 

Shinku and Taura share a look before jumping down not long after, leaving Yaeri all alone. 

Looking up towards the sky she notices how much it's dimmed as a drop of rain splatters across her cheek.

"I guess we're screwed." She states as more rain falls down from the sky. 

Maybe, just maybe, they could survive this war. But Yaeri...she doubts it. 

Resting on the side of the rock Yaeri presses her cheek against the cold surface as she continues to wrack her brain for ideas. 

"Hm, you good there summoner?" The panda asks as it bites down on a stick of bamboo.  

"Yeah, I'm just thinking."

The panda hums. "Well, that's certainly dangerous, try not to hurt yourself."

Yaeri throws a small pebble at the beast who catches it and chucks it behind them. Sitting down next to her the panda pats her shoulder. 

"C'mon, what's got ya down?"

"Probably my wedding." She starts slowly. "But also the war, I'm pretty sure I'm going to die. And my sword style won't be done for a couple more years so I can't rely on that either."

"That sucks." The panda agrees easily. "Want me to eat your fiancé?"

The Hatake snorts. "Go for it, I'm sure the Kumo daimyo will be very happy to hear his future daughter-in-law's summon killed his second son."

It'll stop quite a bit a of drama in the court so maybe he really would appreciate it.

"Even if I survive this war all that awaits me is a probably loveless marriage." She muses solemnly. "What's even the point?"

Suddenly, a paw smacked her across the head. "Don't talk like that." The summons growls. "You're a Kunoichi, this is a mission and your fiancé is the target. Just grab him by the balls and tell the guy to get a grip. He's not going to be happy about this arrangement either so make a deal with him."

Lifting her head from the rock Yaeri considers it. The panda's words were true and if worst comes to worst she can always kill the man and run if she truly needs to. Shimura may even hide her in Root if she asks nicely enough.

"I guess you're right."

"I always am."

Yaeri gives him a blank look. "Well aren't you confident."

The panda smirks. "And with good reason, I'm a goddamn genius."

She snorts. "Sureee~ you are."

"I am!" The panda protests while waving its half-eaten bamboo stick about. 

"Oh yes, I definitely believe you."

"Stop using that tone!"

"What tone? I'm being completely sincere here."

The bamboo stick was then unceremoniously smacked off of her head. 

Hatake Itoi fidgeted in place as she glanced towards the door every five seconds. There was still half an hour left so there was really no need for the constant looking but she just couldn't help herself. 

Placing her hands on the teapot she quickly warmed it up with fire Jutsu. 

Clicking her tongue off of the roof of her mouth she glances towards her son. "You said Yaeri-Chan is coming, are you certain?"

Sakumo gave his mother a strained smile. "Yes Okaa-Chan, Imouto promised that she would come."

Abruptly, the woman scowled. It seems as though Yaeri really was her fathers daughter through and through, she also couldn't keep promises. 

"Well tell her to hurry, Nakao-Sama was kind enough to visit so Yaeri-Chan will spare us the courtesy of actually arriving on time." Itoi stated as she straightened out a pair of chopsticks.

Now if only that husband of her's would show a little care in his only daughter's engagement...

As Sakumo moved to go find his sister a knock rang out from the door as they both froze. 

"They weren't meant to come for another thirty minutes." Itoi hissed while sorting out her kimono before making way for the door.

Plastering on her most brilliant smile Itoi opened the door to reveal Raiden Nakao at the door with two guards by his side. This much was to be expected, obviously he wouldn't come alone when his nation is at war with theirs. 

The only reason he's even come along is because of his political immunity as the daimyo has yet to support Kumo financially in the war meaning people would be reluctant to fight him unprovoked, especially when he has reason to support Konoha with his engagement. 

However...her smiled strained upon seeing an unexpected occupant. 

Yaeri wrapped her arms along Nakao's, pressing the two closely together. The youngest Hatake let nothing show on her face as she made eye contact with her mother. 

"Okaa-San." The girl greeted blandly. "While on a walk I seemed to have bumped into my fiancé, I'm sorry our first meeting isn't as classy as you'd have hoped."

Well that's a lie if he ever heard one. Yaeri probably planned the entire meeting knowing her. Sakumo has to wonder on what they discussed. 

Nakao's left eye twitched as he managed to keep his composure. "Yes, apologies for inconvenience. But may this venerable One just say that One has grown quite fond of your daughter after meeting her in an alleyway."

Probably smoking if the smell wafting off of the girl is anything to go by. Though she does well to hide it with all her perfumes Sakumo can smell the stuff from a mile away thanks to his Hatake genetics. 

He won't tell his mother though, what she doesn't know won't harm her.

Itoi looks momentarily conflicted before it smooths out into a gentle smile as she waved the guests in. "Make yourselves comfortable, food is already on the table." She says, her head slightly bowed. 

And it was a good thing too, otherwise she would've noticed the glare the two lovers exchanged with each other as they moved inside.

Well, this was certainly going to be a dinner to remember. 

"-and so then he kissed me on the cheek and left." Yaeri finishes off as Eban took in a long, deep breath before completely losing it. 

"Sage damned Raiden Nakao kissed you on the cheek?!" He screamed incredulously. "No wait, that's not even the worst of it. What kind of deal did that sexist, racist bastard even have with you to do that?!"

Taura blinked before turning to her fiancé. "Nakao-Sama is a racist? I knew he was a sexist but I didn't expect that."

Shinku grimaced. "Well, he's not a racist per-say but he's definitely an elitist."

"Oh..."

It seems Yaeri really has gotten the worst catch possible in a partner. Taura couldn't help but pity her. 

The Hatake shrugged. "I can't really tell you since it's classified but let's just say the daimyo won't be funding Kumo's side of the war."

Simultaneously, the three blinked in mild surprise.

Villages bring in extra money as they give them a portion of their earnings in exchange for bringing in new clients. However, ninja are often seen as crude beasts that only know how to fight in the eyes of the elite. 

Actually, many rich civilians see ninja's banning together and creating their own stable economy as a threat as it proves ninja aren't just some mentally lacking brutes but intelligent human beings. Even the fire daimyo hates the idea of Konoha but among the main five daimyo none of them can afford their village going down anymore as they are a symbol of power.

Their little soldiers that will wipe each other out while raking in bloody money that the daimyo will snatch with a disgusted look on their face. 

So to stop the funding for their pet projects is quite a challenge to do. 

"How did ya manage to convince him to do that?" Eban demands, curiosity plastered across his face. "I don't care if it's confidential, spill."

"Sorry, Eban-San, it really is confidential."

"Oh come on Riri-Chan, I've known you since we were like eight in the academy and you're still calling me that?!" He protests, looking genuinely offended. 

With a deadpanned expression she nods. "Yes."

"Ugh." The Uchiha rolled his eyes before giving up. "Alright, stay formal and keep your secrets, I don't care." His eyes then brightened. "The Akamichi restaurant is closing today to focus on the war effort. I booked the last reservations so let's go get something to eat!"

Taura clasped her hands together, looking ecstatic at the news. "That's great!" She smiles towards Shinku. "Come on, let's get something to eat while we can."

"Yeah yeah." The Yuuhi grumbles as he follows the woman. 

Yaeri looks down towards the sword on her hip before moving along. War, a real one, has arrived, and no amount of training can ever prepare them for something like this.

Chapter Text

Screaming between grown adults ensued as everyone in the Hokage's office tried desperately to sort out a missing stack of mission files that someone had managed to displace. It truly was a disaster and Yaeri has never been more thankful to be a field nin in that moment. 

Kneeling down next to Eban and Shinku, Yaeri notices how the room is full with many other high ranking ninja when realistically having them all here is a disaster waiting to happen. 

A big mission was about to happen then.

"Jonin Hatake Sakumo," Tobirama starts as the man straightens, "you will lead Chunin Uchiha Waido, Jonin Haruno Taura and Jonin Umino Kohari towards the western front were you'll support the siege happening."

"Yes, Hokage-Sama." Sakumo replied expressionlessly, a stark contrast to his normally gentle self. 

Glancing towards the other four Tobirama gives them a cold look. "Jonin Hatake Yaeri, you along with Jonin Umino Ikkaku, Jonin Uchiha Eban, Jonin Yuuhi Shinku and Jonin Hyuga Zenji will go to the northern front effective immediately."

Suddenly remembering the Hyuga in the room Yaeri recalls seeing him at Nawaki's birth celebration, he was the Hyuga heir if she remembers correctly, before returning her attention back towards the Hokage. 

"Of course, Hokage-Sama." The Hatake nodded with a blank look.

From her side she could tell that Eban was giving his older brother a concerned look to which he was completely ignored by the elder. She could understand why, Waido was the only Chunin here. 

Simply put, he wasn't talented in the slightest. He could work from dusk till dawn and not even make a single dent in his skill set. 

Waido isn't someone who wants pity but Yaeri can't help but give it to him. Not only is he untalented his younger brother actually is a prodigy of sorts. That can't be doing his self-esteem any favours.

Though if he managed to awaken his Sharingan maybe things could've been different. 

Giving one last glance towards her own brother Yaeri squeezes her fist tightly. It'll be a while before they'll see each other again. Goodbyes are most definitely in order. 

Shuffling outside of the Hokage's office after being dismissed both Yaeri and Sakumo stay behind as their teams move to go pack. 

As always, Sakumo is the one to break the silence. "Be safe, Imouto." He whispers, hardly audible to anyone other than a Hatake. 

"I guess you should be safe too. Sage knows what Okaa-San would do if she lost you." Yaeri commented while pulling a strand of loose hair behind her ear. 

He let out an airy laugh. "Well, the same could be said about Tou-San. You are his favourite daughter after all."

She rolls her eyes. "I'm his only daughter, there isn't much competition in that regard."

"Even so, he favours you more than he does me." Sakumo stated factually, as though he were saying the sky was blue. "But that doesn't matter, just keep yourself alive and healthy, ok Imouto?"

"Sureee~ I'll even send you letters on my progress." She replies sarcastically. 

Her elder brother perked up like a dog catching a glimpse of a bone. "Really?"

Yaeri gave him a flat look. "No."

Ripping chunks of grass out of the ground due to sheer boredom Yaeri watched the ceremony proceed as the only guest in attendance. 

Shinku and Taura insisted on getting married before going off to war which makes sense, if one of them were to die a hefty life insurance policy would be awaiting them. 

Eban insisted on officiating it. 

"Do you even have a license for this?" Shinku grumbled as he straightened out his tie. "There's no point if the ceremony isn't legal."

"Of course I'm licensed!" Eban exclaims in mock hurt. "Do you think I'm really awful enough to officiate a wedding without proper authority?"

"Yes." He stated with a deadpanned expression. 

Such little faith...not that it's unwarranted but still. 

"Well think again Shinku, I'm actually a really good person." The Uchiha tuts before glancing down at the sheet in his hands. "We're gathered here today to blah blah blah, holy matrimony, yada yada, ok, you may now kiss the bride."

Shinku looked ready to pause the ceremony to beat up his Uchiha teammate but was quickly stopped as Taura pressed her lips against his. 

"Woo!" Eban cheered as Yaeri clapped her hands together. "With the power invested in me I now pronounce you both husband and wife!"

As Taura pulled away from the kiss as Shinku's face turned very visibly red. 

The girl winked towards her now husband. "There's a lot more of that coming for you soon."

Somehow, his face blushed an even more vibrant hue of red that hadn't been previously thought possible. 

"Are we nearly--"

"Eban I swear to the Sage if you ask that question one more time I will grab you by your balls and remove your ability to procreate." Shinku finally snapped, brandishing his kunai towards the boy with crazed eyes. 

The Uchiha whistled. "Kinky. I didn't know you were a freak like that Shinku. Kinda turns me on."

Yaeri sighed as Shinku moved to go murder his teammate. She was tempted to let him, having to deal with the both of them for another two hours was basically inflicting torture upon one's self. 

Umino Ikkaku, on the other hand, was not nearly as annoyed as her and even managed to find the situation amusing since he had no reservations with cackling out loud. 

"Ikkaku-San," Yaeri called out as the man ceased laughing, "are you and Kohari-San related? You both have the same last name."

At that the man looked at her in disgust of the idea. "Absolutely not, she's my wife." He stated before shivering at the idea of him and his lover being related by blood. 

It makes sense now that she thinks about it, the two looked nothing alike.

"Zenji-San." The Hakate looked towards the Hyuga who turned to face her. "Scout ahead, this area is known for its conflict so the likelihood of running into enemies is high."

To that the Hyuga nods, his face as serious as ever, before activating his Byakugan. 

Humming in appreciation Yaeri notices that Ikkaku's concerned look. 

"Something wrong?" 

He hesitates. "I sure hope not but...that parrot over there is most definitely a summons of mine." 

As if hearing itself being addressed the bird flaps over before landing on its summoners shoulder. "Enemies approaching! *caw* Enemies approaching!"

They all tense as Zenji moves into an attack stance leaving them all to quickly follow suit. 

"There are twelve opponents with quite large chakra signatures, mostly lightning types as well so they're definitely Kumo nin." Zenji hissed as the parrot flys away again. "What's the plan?"

"We're outnumbered and probably outmatched. I'll distract them and you guys step in when it seems as though I'm overwhelmed."

"You intend to fight alone?" Zenji demands with a snarl. "Don't be arrogant, twelve ninja are beyond your scope."

"Ah, I won't be fighting alone so just go." Biting her finger Yaeri runs through some hand signs before slamming her palm onto the ground. "Summoning Jutsu!"

Not wasting anymore time her comrades moved into the trees as the smoke from the Jutsu began to calm down. 

Her panda summons stared at her momentarily before grinning. "Do I get to eat someone?"

Yaeri unsheathes her sword. 

"Of course." She stated while lifting her sword up towards the approaching ninja. "Let's show these Kumo nin just why the Hatake and Panda's are so feared."

The ninja jump down from the trees as they surround the two. Pressing her back into the panda's Yaeri jumps towards the first Kumo nin who was running through a flash of hand signs that had to be stopped so that they could be spared from their hands being cut off. 

Another ninja moved after her as the Hatake fell back before quickly jumping up into the air, narrowly dodging a lightning Jutsu. 

Catching sight of the caster who looked winded after creating the Jutsu, Yaeri throws her sword mid-air into their chest while they were still gathering their breath. Luckily, it landed as the ninja staggered back. 

One ninja down. 

Running towards another ninja who was trying to sneak up on her panda the Hatake throws a punch towards their face as they grabbed it. Lifting up her knee she smashes it into their groin as the man lets out a gasp. Wasting no time she took out a kunai from her hip pouch and slit his throat. 

Two ninja down. 

Looking over towards her panda quickly Yaeri could see the summons rip apart an enemy with its bare hands while another one lay dead at its feet. 

Three ninja down. 

Four ninja down. 

Due to her momentary pause a ninja had used the opportunity to stab her with their kunai. Fortunately, she managed to dodge in time so that it didn't hit anything vital but that didn't take away from the fact that she now had a stab wound on her arm and more enemies were surrounding her.

Not good. 

Eban quickly jumped down from his spot as he landed in front of her. Shinku followed along not a second later as he covered her back. 

Ikkaku threw her sword back to her as Yaeri caught it with the none injured arm. 

Letting Eban deal with the enemy in front the other two focused on the three ninja behind them. 

"Hey Shinku-San." Yaeri murmured while readying her sword. "Remember our first A-Rank?"

He snorts. "I'd never be able to forget that mission for as long as I live."

"Let's recreate that scene, shall we?"

As if under a spell all three ninja froze in place as Shinku's Genjutsu took ahold of them. Yaeri swung her sword, beheading two of the three with ease. 

Five ninja down. 

Six ninja down. 

The third managed to break out in time and moved to stab her while her arm was raised in a swinging motion but was stopped when her panda grabbed the ninja's head and crushed it. 

Seven ninja down. 

And from Ikkaku and Zenji's side of things there seems to be a few more casualties. Though the Hyuga probably did the most work considering Ikkaku is a medic.  

Eight ninja down. 

Nine ninja down. 

Eban just set a Kumo nin on fire if the crazed laughing and terrified screams were any indication. 

Ten ninja down. 

Which was all well and good until the Konoha nin realised they couldn't see the last two ninja. 

"Damn it." Shinku grits out as the ground begins to crack open with lightening pouring out of it. "Everyone run!"

He didn't have to tell her twice. 

Resisting the urge to just die on the forest floor Eban groans as he hovers over the bodies of a man and woman who combined their Jutsu's together to form some sort of lightening monstrosity. 

" Raiton: Fukōna tamashī !" The two had called it. 

Unhappy souls. And they were right because no one was happy to see that absolutely evil Jutsu. 

Wincing slightly the Uchiha tries to put on a brave face as the Hyuga limps his way over, his Byakugan still active. 

Zenji speaks up. "Burn them."

A part of Eban, the part that gripped onto Clan pride like a lifeline, wanted to refuse a Hyuga's demands. Another part, the pyromaniac in him, wanted to gleefully accept. 

He chose the latter. 

Giggling manically as the two went up in flames Eban didn't have it in himself to care as the Hyuga looked at him as though he was crazy. 

They're ninja , of course none of them are sane. It was practically in the job description. 

Ikkaku flooded Yaeri's system with healing Chakra as Shinku wrote down what had transpired on a piece of scrap paper. The Hokage would probably like to know of twelve Kumo nin being taken down and considering the final two had been the Raiton Couple Of The North it certainly put them at an advantage in terms of firepower. 

Zenji and Eban came back as the latter gave him a curt nod. So it's confirmed, they're dead. 

"Your panda is actually awesome." The Uchiha states upon catching sight of the Hakate. "We would've been totally screwed without it."

"Yeah, I'll have to thank the summons after this." Yaeri lolled her head to the side. "Do any of you know how to cook a human? Actually, don't answer that, I want to have plausible deniability for when you get arrested."

At that Shinku eyed the Hyuga of the group. If anyone were to have ate a human it'd definitely be the person who's Clan that supports slavery. 

Sensing the suspicious look Zenji shot him a vicious glare before speaking up. 

"The bodies have been sealed away and sent to Konoha morgue via Umino-San's parrot summon." He informs Yaeri, pointedly ignoring the rest of them.

Humming in acknowledgement of the information presented to her the Hatake speaks up. "Then let's proceed to northern front. Staying here is far too dangerous so let's not delay our journey any longer."

"Alrighty people, let's get going!" Eban declares before running off into the trees. 

Rolling his eyes Shinku follows along. At the very least, even if everything else does change Eban will always be his normally aggravating self. 

Or at least he hopes so. 

Throwing a ration bar towards Zenji the Hyuga gracefully catches it without so much as turning his head. Even without the Bygakugan it seems as though Hyuga's are naturally more aware of their surroundings unlike any other ninja. 

Sitting down next to the man Yaeri takes a bite of her own ration bar. 

"So," the Hateke began, "why'd you want to take watch tonight? We'll be at the northern front tomorrow so you could've just went to bed without having to worry about watch duty tomorrow."

Zenji stared down at the bar in his hands before opening it. "For the same reason as you most likely." He gives her a long look. "Nightmares?"

"No, insomnia." 

A pitying look was sent her way as the Hyuga nodded along. "There should be medication for that at the northern front. A tired ninja is never a good one." He paused. "Was your medication destroyed in battle?"

Nodding her head Yaeri finished off the last of her ration bar.

Momentary silence filled the forest, the sound of crickets could be heard as both of them enjoyed the stillness of the night. It was rather peaceful if one were to ignore why they were there in the first place. 

"Uchiha-San and Yuuhi-San were both your Genin teammates, correct?" Zenji suddenly asked. 

"Yeah, that's right." She turned towards him. "Why do you ask?"

"Nothing, it's just that you all seemed rather close."

"Is Ikkaku-San your Genin teammate then?" 

Despite always addressing the other man so formally they seemed to work well together and are able to fight with each other in a way only those who've done so many times could do. 

"That is correct. Both Umino-San and Haruno-no, it's Yuuhi-San now, shared a Genin team with me." Zenji informed her with a bland explanation. 

"Taura-San was your teammate as well?" 

Although they didn't seem too close Yaeri did suppose that the Hyuga was staring at her rather intently when getting their mission.

Both ninja stare into the night sky. It was awfully beautiful tonight. 

Craning his head around Zenji looked over to Yaeri who retuned the glance. Lonely nights among ninja were long, maybe they could—

A kunai zipped passed the two as they jumped into action. 

Immediately unsheathing her sword Yaeri used the weapon to deflect another rouge kunai that would've otherwise landed in between her eyes. 

Slamming his palm into a tree Zenji sent out a chakra signal towards their sleeping companions who instantly woke up at the call before using his Byakugan to find the attackers. 

"Oh dear." The Hyuga mumbled which was absolutely not a good thing. "It appears to be a Taki nin, a singular woman with high chakra reserves— Jinchuriki chakra reserves."

"Taki isn't in this war." Yaeri hissed while dodging another weapon. "And if this woman really is a Jinchuriki she should be facing us head on."

And certainly not alone. No village with a Jinchuriki would ever leave them to fight a battle without support. 

So the Jinchuriki is acting alone on a personal vendetta. After what Yaeri did to the previous candidate for the title she can guess why but not how they figured it out. 

Ducking behind a tree as the kunai thunks into it Yaeri's eyes squinted in assessment. 

"Where are the kunai even coming from?"

It's like they're appearing out of thin air and while she isn't one to question what ninja can and cannot do this does seem rather impossible.

"They seem to be dragged out from...a pocket in space it seems? Not by the Jinchuriki but rather an invisible force." Zenji stated, confusion evident in his voice.

Great, they were dealing with a ghost. Although it could've been worse, once, she had to fist fight a demon on a D-Rank. The demon in this scenario being a three year old and while Yaeri prides herself in having some etiquette in handling children but that child came from the depths of hell itself. 

From the corner of her eye she could see Ikkaku move to a tree besides her as the rest were spread out in the area. 

"What's the situation?"

"Ghosts, apparently. And an angry Jinchuriki but they aren't approaching us so..."

"Damn." Ikkaku sighed. "Of course this just had to happen to us."

"We can't stay here." Yaeri decided. "Zenji-San, you charge in front and deflect any rouge kunai, Ikkaku-San you'll stay in the middle and provide healing to either of us should we need it. I'll fall behind and make sure no attacks get us in your blind spot. Once we get within ten meters of the Jinchuriki both of you fall back."

A quick nod was exchanged between the three as they moved forward. Immediately, Yaeri could tell that the majority of kunai were headed towards her. 

So this was a targeted attack. The Hatake was under the impression that her panda summons were able to completely release the man's soul from his earthly binds but it seems as though they weren't quite as thorough as she'd like to believe. 

Catching sight of the Jinchuriki sitting in the open part of the woods Yaeri signalled for her comrades to fall back as she noticed something. 

This area hadn't been open woods at all, no, the trees had been cut down. And by a single attack from the looks of it. 

Yaeri pointed her sword towards the woman who was sitting cross legged on a tree stump. 

She smiled as the kunai stopped appearing. 

"Ah, you must be Yaeri-Chan!" She cooed while tilting her head in an unnatural angle. "Yes, he told me all about you!"

Of course, there was no need to wonder who this he was. Though how he was still around when he can only transfer his allies minds is a mystery  

"Takigakure Jinchuriki." Yaeri spoke up, completely ignoring the woman's words. "I say this to avoid unnecessary conflict but I'd rather not fight you right now. Have no doubt, however, that if you keep attacking I will be given no choice but to retaliate."

There was a small bout of silence before the woman threw her head back in laughter. Echos of madness filled the woods and Yaeri couldn't help but tense. 

Suddenly, the maniacal laughter stopped as she leaned forward, a vicious grin on her face. "You're fucking dead kid."

Not a second later wings burst from the woman's lower back as she flew up into the air. Intaking a deep breath she blew out a type of fine powder that overtook the field, blinding the Hatake. 

Staying on guard Yaeri held her sword closer as she backed away to where the trees were, or at least where she remembered them being since her sight was heavily impaired. 

A loud crack was heard before Yeari felt the pain of a fist imbedded into her side. Not given a moment to rest another fell down on her back before barrage landed onto her torso. 

Blood pooled into Yaeri's mouth as she finally felt her back hit into a tree as the barrage stopped.

The woman stood as a blurry blob in her vision before a hand grabbed onto her hair. 

Lifting her bruised arms up Yaeri pressed her fingers hard into the Jinchuriki's arm before hearing a satisfying crunch and a loud scream as her hair was let go of. 

"You bitch!" The woman yelled as she moved to punch her again but was stopped as Yaeri landed a hit onto the Jinchuriki's stomach, sending her a small distance away. 

Slowly, the powder in the air faded as the Hatake staggered before falling over. Ikkaku caught her before she hit the floor as both Zenji and Eban engaged in hand to hand combat with the woman. 

A losing battle for the Jinchuriki, when fighting a Hyuga and Uchiha it is always best to keep your distance. 

Flying back up into the air after recovering a couple hits the woman glared towards the group. 

"My name is Junko of Taki!" She screamed from the sky. "And Hatake Yaeri, count your fucking days because I'll kill you before this war ends, you have my word!"

Turning her head to a small patch in the trees her eyes soften. "Let's go." Junko whispered before flying off. 

Yaeri waited precisely five seconds before letting her eyes roll back into her skull. 

Eban fiddled with Yaeri's hair as she lay motionless in bed, the only indication that she was awake being the slow blinks he caught her doing every once in a while. 

It had taken a while to get to the northern front but they did so with no more surprise encounters with Kumo nin or Jinchuriki. Thank the Sage too, if Eban had to fight one more time in a single journey he was going to go back to Konoha, loyalties be damned. 

"Hey Shinku?" The Uchiha murmured. "Do you think we're gonna die?"

He gave him a look before shrugging. "I don't think about those things, I just try my best to do it instead of thinking about what ifs that have yet to have happened."

The Uchiha rolled his eyes. " Boringgg ~ I want a real answer." He then looked down to his bedridden teammate. "What about you, Riri-Chan? Do ya think we're gonna die?"

She slowly turned head towards him, looking the man straight in the eyes as she replied.

"Yes."

Well, that's definitely...cynical. 

Feeling a gust of air fall into the tent all three ninja turn to see a woman with long red hair enter the tent with a grim expression. 

"I see that you are awake, Hatake Yaeri." The woman states before crossing her arms. "I'm Senju Ukou, the squad leader of the northern front. Every order coming from my mouth is expected to be followed."

"Of course, Senju-Sama." Yaeri replied blankly as she stared at the white roof of the tent. "We'll be in your care then."

"Hm." Ukou nods in satisfaction. "Rest up, I'll give you lot a mission in three days."

With that the woman turned on her heel and glided out the tent. 

Eban whistled. "Well, this may have me executed by my Clan for treason but Senju-Sama is hot."

Shinku gave him a tired look. "I thought you liked men."

"I do." The Uchiha replied immediately. "But that doesn't mean I can't tell when a woman is absolutely gorgeous. Besides..." he winks towards Yaeri, "I'd absolutely make an exception for you, Riri-Chan."

"You genuinely repulse me."

"Ah!" Eban gasped out. "How heartless! And after I confessed my heartfelt feelings too..."

Rolling his eyes the Yuuhi grabbed Eban by the scruff of his vest before dragging him out of the tent. 

"Rest well, Yaeri-Chan." Shinku said as Eban grumbled something along the same lines. 

And then they were gone. 

Sitting on top of a bench Yaeri glanced at Eban who had chosen a sandbag to sit on when there was still more space for him next to her. Though, with Zenji also on the bench she can suppose why he wouldn't want to be near him. 

Bringing a mouthful of porridge to her lips the Hatake ate without much protest. 

Ikkaku, however, threw up immediately. 

"What a waste." Zenji tsk's while shaking his head. "It can't be that bad."

Swallowing some the porridge the Hyuga turned green before also throwing up. 

Eban cackled in delight at Zenji's misery as Shinku sighed before smacking the man across his head as the Uchiha groaned.

"This is abuse!" He screeched. "I'm gonna report you one of these days Shinku." Eban pauses before grinning devilishly. "Ya know what? You're getting a nickname!"

Shinku's eyes widen in horror. 

"You wouldn't." He whispered with a pale expression. "You're not that cruel."

"Oh, I don't know about that..." Eban leaned in close as he whispered into the man's ear. "Kuku-Chan."

The Yuuhi's expression turns murderous as he drags his Uchiha teammate towards the camps training ground, intent on making him pay, but was stopped as a ninja ran into the camp looking extremely distressed. 

Senju Ukou made her way over to the panting man who kneeled before her. 

"Senju-Sama!" The man gasped out. "Bad news, the lightning daimyo has just thrown in their support for Kumo!"

Yaeri's eyes widen as she gives the conversation her full attention. Everyone else in the camp seems to have stopped too as they all zero in on the man.

"What?!" Ukou screamed, looking extremely distressed by the news. "Nakao-Sama was in direct opposition of the idea so vehemently that even the daimyo listened to him! What possibly could've changed that?!"

"That's the thing!" He wailed. "Nakao-Sama has been accused of poisoning the daimyo and his brother has taken over as daimyo while their Tou-Sama is still in a coma!"

"Damn it all!" She hissed before taking in a calming breath. "You said Nakao-Sama has been 'accused' yes? That means there hasn't been a verdict yet."

"It doesn't matter, the entire court seems to have fallen to his brother in support and Nakao-Sama has been abandoned by even his closest allies!"

Yaeri marched up to the man as Eban tired to stop her. Pushing him aside she grabs the man's vest before pulling him close. 

"Where is my fiancé being held?" 

"Hatake-San." Ukou murmured, her tone warning. 

"Where. Is. He?"

"Um, I think it's the Raiden-Kami prison." He chocked out as Yaeri loosened her grip on the man. 

"Senju-Sama." Yaeri kneels down in front of the woman. "I request that me and my squad be sent to save my fiancé."

The Senju scoffed. "Now? With such little resources? I can't send man power for a lost cause like this."

Before Yaeri could retaliate she notices Ukou make a hand gesture and backs down. 

"Of course, Senju-Sama. I apologise for my outburst."

Ukou gave her a long look before sighing. "At least you understand." The redhead grimaced as she turned on her heel to leave.

Eban was the first by her side. 

"Oh Riri-Chan, I'm so sorry, let's get you back to the tent."

He quickly wisps her away before anyone could break out into whispers about what had just transpired. It didn't matter, however, as she already knew what everyone was thinking. 

What now?

Chapter Text

Zipping up his Jonin vest Eban grimaced as the zip got stuck half way through. Of course, everything bad always wanted to happen to him. 

"Hurry up Eban!" Shinku yelled from outside of the tent. "Senju-Sama has called on us and if you cause us to be late then she'll really kill us!"

"I'm coming!"

Scrambling out of the tent the Uchiha just barely remembered to put on his shoes before revealing himself to the outside world. 

Shinku looked him up and down before shooting him a judgemental look as his eyes stop on the Uchiha's hair. It was a look that said 'don't walk near me, I don't want anyone to know that I know you' and has been directed towards him many times before in the past. 

'Ah,' Eban though as ran a hand through his very long (and very tangled) hair, 'so that's what I forgot.'

"You're an honest to god disgrace." Shinku shook his head fondly. "What are we going to do with you?"

"Dress me up as a jester and hope my hilarious jokes distract the enemy long enough for you to defeat them." 

"That'd definitely be a more useful way of using you, Sage knows how awful you are at anything else." The man snarked as Eban gasped in mock offence.

"I was second place in the academy rankings I'll have you know!" Eban exclaimed. "That's an even higher rank than you were!"

Rolling his eyes Shinku turns his back to him. "Just get changed. And properly this time. I'm not going to risk punishment via extra manual jobs just because you're incapable of getting ready on time."

Once the Yuuhi was a safe distance away Eban flipped him off before storming back into the tent.

Gosh, sometimes that guy can be such a prick.

Leaning against a tree Yaeri crosses her arms as she eyes Eban who was extraordinarily late. At least his hair looks absolutely fabulous if nothing else. The sacrifices one makes for perfect hair...

"Eban-San." Yaeri greeted blankly. "You missed the entire meeting. Congratulations, you've been assigned toilet duty effective immediately once this mission is over."

Oh no. 

"Are you kidding me?!" The Uchiha exclaims in panic. "W-wait, we can talk this out, right Riri-Chan?!"

That's right! Yaeri has known him since they started the academy at eight, surely she wouldn't leave him to such a horrible fate...

"Unfortunately, Senju-Sama was the one to order your punishment. If you have a problem then take it up with her." Rolling her shoulders the Hatake gives the Hyuga of the group a nod. "Zenji-San, please inform Eban-Sam of the mission details."

Aw, damn it Yaeri. The Sage damned Hyuga? Really? Why not just tell him to jump off a building, it'd probably be a kinder fate.

"Hn, very well." Turning towards the Uchiha, Zenji gave him a scornful look. "Senju-Sama has assigned us a mission to save Raiden Nakao from captivity and appoint him to the daimyo position."

Eban blinked before the words registered in his mind. "Eh?! Really?! I thought Senju-Sama basically abandoned him!"

"Well, if you were there for the meeting-" 

"Shut up, it wasn't that serious." 

"-yes it was, in fact, that serious. And anyway Senju-Sama only said that so publicly because she feared for spies listening in. Because of this we have gained the element of suprise."

Huh, ok, yeah, that made sense. 

Cracking his knuckles Eban grinned. "So what're we waiting for? Let's go save that elitist bastard!"

With that, the Uchiha was off. 

"Wait! The plan has yet to have been--" Zenji tried before groaning "explained."

Well, if the Uchiha messes up the mission it certainly isn't his fault. Actually, considering who the Uchiha was it was practically to be expected. 

Yaeri crossed her legs as she sat in a meditative pose. Her panda summon was sat right next to the Hatake as they both scoured the prision. 

Zenji was the first to speak. "While Hatake-San and her summons record the Chakra signatures let's draw out a couple plans."

Waiting like this only served to make the ninja even more nervous. And nothing spells trouble like a nervous ninja. 

"Ooo, alright, I'll go first. I'm great at plans!" Eban declares before furrowing his brows in thought. "Um, how about both me and Kuku-Chan place a couple guards under a Genjutsu and draw out the information for where that bastard is located. It's quick and efficient!"

He was proud of this idea. Shinku always says he can't plan to save a life but clearly he's wrong! 

"That's a terrible idea." Oh, shut up you Hyuga bastard! "Not only would finding a guard far enough away from any others prove to be difficult this prison consists solely of samurai who are known to be one of the best sensors in the world after the monks. Even a momentary spark of Chakra won't get past them so you'd basically be alerting the entire building of our attack."

Ugh, Eban hates smart people. That's actually a good point. 

"Wait," Ikkaku blinked as all eyes turned to him, "I'm confused, do samurai not use any Chakra at all?"

"Ah, they do but only by pushing it into their swords. This leaves their coils in areas such as their legs completely underdeveloped. It's also common to never draw a sword unless you are provoked or training." Zenji explains as though it were common knowledge. 

Which to any noble Clan it definitely was. They have enough run ins with daimyo's that this information was necessary. 

"Honestly, you're so stupid Ikkaku-Kun." Eban mocked before yelping as Shinku smacked him across the head. 

"It isn't his fault, not all of us are blessed to have a Clan's education." The man hissed as Eban winced. 

Yeah, he totally forgot about that. 

Saving him from further embarrassment Yaeri decided to pick that moment to open her eyes causing the attention to fall off of him and onto her. 

"How many samurai did you sense?" Her panda asked. "I've got around 204 on the first floor, 322 on the second and 590 in the basement."

Nodding her head Yeari's face turned solemn. "I got round about the same numbers. It's highly likely that Nakao-Sama is in the basement if the guard count is any indication."

"Or it could be a ploy to have us go down instead of other floors. That'd give them enough time to escape with the guy." Ikkaku points out. 

Yaeri sighs as she gets up from her seating position. "You can leave now." She tells her panda who wastes no time disappearing in a puff of smoke. 

Sharing a look the group understands the silent order immediately. They need to scope out the building and do it good.

Ikkaku raised his arm as a parrot landed onto to it. There was a noticeable scrap of paper in the parrots mouth so it was probably a message of some kind. 

Leaning forward Yaeri catches the man grin as he chucks the paper towards her. She catches it with ease before raising an eyebrow. 

"Onii-Chan sent this?"

"Yeah, Sakumo-Kun asked me to deliver a message to you." He paused. "Um, don't kill me. I know you said not to receive any messages from him but that guy was persistent."

Shaking her head Yaeri unfolds the paper as she began to read the contents. 

"They've secured the stronghold." Yaeri states as Ikkaku's jaw dropped. 

"Wait, really?! But, it's been like two weeks since they arrived!" 

A siege that had been going on for a full month suddenly coming to a close after a group of four ninja arrived is practically unheard of. Which would be true if one of the ninja in question wasn't her brother. 

"It seems as though we must hurry up with our own mission." The Hatake murmurs as she throws the paper towards her teammate. "Burn it."

He rolls his eyes. "Way ahead of you Yaeri-Chan."

Looking towards the outline of the prison from the branch she was sitting on Yaeri's fist tightened around her sword. 

After scoping out the building for a week the group had drawn out a few conclusions. There are no weak points allowing entry into the prison and even taking down one guard meant the entire place would be alerted of any trespassers. Theoretically, it's impossible to get in without alerting anyone. 

After much consideration with a prison like the Raiden-Kami there's only one way to get in. 

Brute force. Or in other words a siege. 

Though they may lack the man power it common knowledge that a ninja will always beat a samurai in a battle. Besides, with what she had planned they man power won't be a problem. 

Maybe they could sense the oncoming siege but what does that matter when they can't do anything about it?

Cracking her knuckles Yaeri's eyes harden as she stares down the building that contained her captive fiancé. 

"Let's see how strong these samurai really are." She glances towards Ikkaku. "Tell the others that I'll be unavailable for the next few days and to prepare for a siege."

"Where will you be?" Ikkaku asks, obviously curious. 

Her lips press into a thin line. "Hopefully, gathering a couple more allies for this battle."

"And if you fail in gathering these allies?"

"...well, we better start hoping five ninja can bring down over one thousand samurai or else we're screwed."

"Ah." Ikkaku nods before clasping his hands together. 

It's probably best to start praying then. Taking unnecessary risks simply isn't in the ninja rule book. 

Settling down onto the couch Yaeri pointedly didn't make eye contact with the woman across from her as she brought the tea a servant had brought in to her lips. From the scent alone it didn't seem to be poisonous. 

At least the woman knew better than to poison her. 

"So," the woman finally spoke up as Yaeri took a sip from the tea, "this one can take a guess on what brought you here."

"I'm sure you can." Yaeri nodded along as placed down her tea. "I'd expect nothing less from my future sister in-law."

She snorts. "Future? You say that like Nakao is alive. That little brat has definitely managed to annoy a samurai enough that they've bashed his head into a wall."

A little morbid but it's not as though Yaeri is any better in that perspective. 

"He's alive."

Hopefully. 

If all this work is for naught then she'll have to steal one of Tobirama's forbidden Jutsu's and bring Nakao back. If only so that she can murder him herself this time. 

"I've always wondered something." Yaeri confesses as the woman takes a bite of a biscuit. "Why aren't you in line for the daimyo's seat? Surely, the eldest daughter of the daimyo has the greatest claim for it."

Although, if she really thinks about it, the answer is obvious. 

"Because this one is a woman."

"We both know that isn't what I meant, you've completely removed yourself from the line of succession by renouncing your birthright." The Hatake murmurs as she resists urge to take out a cigarette. 

Not that she has any, they've become an unaffordable luxury these days. 

An amused look was sent her way. "As blunt as ever this one sees. Have you ever considered what it is one stands to gain from removing her right to succession? One would've had to anyway when marriage became an issue but in doing so of one's free will without the hindrance of marriage allows the opportunity to make a name on one's own."

In other words, while still being apart of the Raiden family she continues to get the befits a distant cousin would while building up her own influence in court. 

While Yaeri isn't politically ignorant she can't really claim that this entire process makes sense to her.

"And that is why I'm here. Nakao-Sama will come back and I was hoping you'd help me secure the daimyo's seat for him." Yaeri explained, cutting straight to the point instead of dancing around the matter. 

The woman hummed in thought. "What's in it for this one? She has no reason to comply to such a request that doesn't benefit her at all."

"Oh? You'd rather your other brother be the one to become the lightning daimyo?" Yaeri raises an eyebrow. "He'd want you gone since you hold a sizeable influence in court and find a way to downgrade your influence, he's done so with Nakao-Sama so you know it's a possibility. But if you were known as the woman who restored the rightful son to his position then there's no way your influence could be easily cut. Besides, I'd definitely owe you a favour."

"This one does love favours." She chuckles before nodding her head. "Very well, one will help her Otouto into the daimyo's seat. You just figure how to get him out of that prison. One has heard he has not been fairing well and a proper trail won't take place since his injuries may get to him first."

The Hatake grimaces before nodding. "Thank you for your help."

It seems like she needs to speed this rescue mission up. At this rate, there may not be a fiancé to even save. 

Eban blinked a couple times before letting his jaw drop as the group turned towards the absolutely humungous amount of Chakra signatures coming straight for them. Honestly, at first he thought maybe he was sensing things wrong but apparently not considering everyone else wore the same shocked reaction as himself. 

Turning towards the Hyuga of the group Zenji activated his Byakugan as he paled dramatically. 

"Oh Sage, there's no way she could've..." he trailed off, looking astonished and mildly disturbed at the same time. 

"Don't just gawk Hyuga!" Eban yelled as he grabbed the man by his Jonin vest. "Tell us what that is?!"

"It's..." The Hyuga swallowed, "it's an army."

"Yes, all of us could guess that much, but an army for who?! Us, or them?!" 

"Us." Zenji replied immediately as he deactivated his Byakugan. "Hatake-San is the one who leads them."

Shinku shook his head. "As much as I'd like to believe Yaeri-Chan managed to convince Konoha to lend us an army for this siege I doubt it'd be possible with our current manpower."

"They aren't Konoha ninja."

This time, it was Ikkaku to speak up. "C'mon Zenji-Kun, just spit it out." The man demanded, his patience running out. 

"It's an army of pandas." Zenji finally grits out. 

"Oh." Eban choked before throwing his head back as a bout of laughter takes over him. "Oh, Sage, she's absolutely insane."

Yeah, that's such a Yaeri thing to do. An army of man-eating pandas, what an idea. The Chakra she'd need for that would've been impossible to achieve unless she managed to convince the pandas to summon themselves. How she managed that Eban really doesn’t want to know.

'A couple allies' well, she definitely brought allies. It's just a tad bit more than Eban would've thought possible. 

Sitting on her main panda summons shoulder Yaeri continued to sharpen her blade as the rest of her summons tore their way through the barrage of samurai. Oh, she could practically see her bingo book bounty rising as the one-sided massacre continued. 

Ikkaku was the only one of her allies to actually come into the prison, the rest were told to stay outside and take down any stragglers that had managed to escape. 

It'd be bad if they managed to ask for help. 

In a way she feels bad, these people have lives and families of their own yet here they are, being cut down like flies all because of political mayhem. 

On the other hand...

"Does it feel good?" Her main summon asks the Hatake who doesn't look up from her sword. "I mean, samurai were the main assassins sent for your family from the daimyo's court. Even after the engagement a couple still came. Cutting down so many must be saving you quite a bit of future grief."

"Honestly?" Yaeri lets out a sigh. "I don't care. I'm a Kunoichi, I've killed and will probably kill some more. Just because a lot more people than usual have died doesn't mean I care any more than normal."

Besides, technically, she hasn't taken a life this entire drive. This'll be her main argument if anyone wants to use the siege against her. Although it's not a good argument it's better than nothing. 

"Hm." The panda shakes its head. "Yeah, ok, you ninja are definitely insane."

"Glad you've finally noticed." She muttered dryly. 

The two pause as she jumps off of the summons shoulder when a large door fills their vision. 

"In there?" Yaeri questions, her voice never wavering. 

"Yep." The panda nods. 

"Alright." Turning her head she looks to Ikkaku who jumped off of another panda's shoulder. "Let's go get my fiancé."

Had someone told Nakao that he'd be stripped of all his worldly possessions, thrown into a cage and beaten until his bruises had bruises, well...

He's too tired to think of what he'd say in retaliation. 

A shiver ran up his spine as more blood oozed out of his wounds. Some would call it a miracle that he hasn't died yet. Nakao, however, wants to scream for someone to put him out of his bloody misery. 

Never, and he means never, had the Raiden ever felt so humiliated before. All his allies had left him for dead, his brother...Sage, he doesn't even want to call that thing his family member. And his father is probably dead. 

Oh, his father...

Against his own will a sob fell from his lips. Nakao loved his father, the man was as harsh as any father could be but even still it'd be lie to say that Nakao didn't care about him. 

Then their was his sister and the last thing he remembers telling her is to stay in her place, that a weak woman like her should just find a man to settle down with and get out of his way. 

Tears leaked from his eyes as his body shook. 

"This venerable one--no, I'm so sorry."

He didn't mean it, really, Nakao just didn't want his sister to be involved in any more political drama. She deserved to live normally. If only he could tell them how much he loved them both...

Something, probably a hand, brushed against his back as he looks up to see...his fiancé? By her side stood a panda and a man with brown hair. 

It must a hallucination, one manifested of both his wounds and a mental breakdown. 

"Ikkaku-San." His fiancé turned to the man. "Heal him."

"Y-yaeri." Nakao groaned as she moved her hand off of his back. "Don't g-go."

The woman blinked but didn't move. "Hello to you as well, lover." She murmured. "I've come to make good on our little deal. Let's get you out of here."

This wasn't real, Nakao decided. But even so...maybe he could delve into his delusions. 

Just this once. 

Brushing a piece of hair behind her ear Yaeri watches on as her fiancé tried, and failed horribly, to walk. A small part of her soul almost pities him. Poor man, physiotherapy in a makeshift tent wasn't the best way to receive treatment. 

Still, it was all they could afford at the minute. Moving to his sisters residence would attract too much attention after all.

Shaking his head Ikkaku moved to help Nakao onto his bed but had his hand slapped away for the attempt. Staggering back onto his feat the man continued trying to walk much to the medics chagrin. 

"You'll only set your progress back like this." Ikkaku informed him with a sigh. "Yaeri-San, please stop your fiancé from leaving himself bed bound for the foreseeable future."

"Alright." The woman agreed as she moved off of the tent wall. 

Moving next to the man she kicked the back of his legs as he fell into her arms.

Ikkaku whistled. "Well aren't you a smooth operator Yaeri-San?"  

Rolling her eyes the Hatake ignores him favour of throwing her fiancé onto the bed. 

"And fast too! I must say, you definitely have game Yaeri-San. Should I get out?"

"Yes." Yeari deadpanned. "Because if you don't leave I'll have no choice but to kill you."

The man laughs, clearly not taking her threat seriously, but at least he does go. Good, because if he hadn't then she'd have to make good on her threat. 

Turning back to her fiancé Yaeri speaks up. 

"It must be hard. I couldn't imagine myself in your position." She stated bluntly as the man scoffs. 

"This venerable one is sure you couldn't, as a Kunoichi you've probably always been strong." Nakao sneers as his hands clench into fists. 

"Ah, and that's where you're wrong." Yaeri tsks as the man gives her a surprised look. "When I was younger I was always sick. My yin-yang balance all sorts of out of shape. I shouldn't have lived past my fifth birthday."

"Yet here you are." Nakao muses as he lolls his head to the side. "How?"

Huffing in amusement Yaeri crosses her arms. "My panda summons. Despite their physical prowess they sure have a knack for spiritual awareness. The combination of the two made it all the more better for my recovery."

"Although this venerable one doesn't know much about summons and Chakra he was under the impression that you needed lots of training to preform a summon. Something a five year old wouldn't be able to do."

"Three years old, actually." She corrects before nodding. "And you're right, I couldn't reverse summon myself at that age, nor did I have a contract. It was actually my Obaa-Chan who held the contract at the time so she took me to the place where the summons reside in order to stabilise my yin-yang Chakra levels. This is all to say that I wasn't always strong."

Nakao contemplated this information. Yes, realistically everyone had to start from somewhere but it never really occurred to him that others weren't always as strong as he'd liked to have believed. 

"But have you really suffered so greatly afterwards? People tend to lose sight of what they've went through and only preach fragments after the event." 

It wouldn't surprise him if she hadn't. Yaeri grew exponentially stronger after her illness it seems. So her words of not always being strong meant little if she herself had lost sight of her humble beginnings. 

"As a ninja I'm always coming home with a new injury." She huffs. "But I get what you mean and the truth is that I've only been in such a fragile state once when I was fifteen." Her eyes close. "I don't wish to talk about that though."

Silence befell the two. Not an uncomfortable one, or at least Nakao wouldn't call it unpleasant. Still, he felt the need to fill the silence. 

"Do you honestly think this venerable will get better?" He asks, his voice oddly fragile. 

Yaeri shrugs. "Probably. Maybe not to the extent you were at before but there's a good chance we can get you back onto your feet in...four months." She flicks his forehead. "That being said you should take it slow."

"We're at war, this venerable one can't afford to stand still as his people die all for a war that one does not approve of." Nakao snarls, his voice oozing with venom. "As we speak ninja for both of our sides are dying and you want this one to take it slow?"

"Yes." She replies simply. "You may think rushing into things will solve the problem faster but in the end all you're doing is setting up a stage for more deaths. Kumo needs a strong daimyo, not one that'll keel over any minute."

"This venerable one is not that weak." He tries, his voice losing its previous fight. 

Yaeri actually pities him this time. 

"Unfortunately, the rest of the world doesn't see it that way."

Neither does she for that matter. 

Beautiful, blissful quiet was all Shinku wished to here today. Was that to hard to ask? Did the Sage hate him? Had he committed some unspeakable crimes that’d warrant such treatment?

Because of course the second he managed to settle down something-- Eban, had to disturb him from what would’ve otherwise have been a productive nap. 

“Go away!” The Yuuhi screeched as Eban lay on top of him. 

The Uchiha groaned. “No! You promised you’d let me sleep with you if I took over ‘watching Nakao’ duty!”

Shinku flushed as the words registered in his mind. “Sleep next to me!” The man corrected as he pushed the Uchiha off of him. “Honestly, if someone heard that they’d get the wrong idea. I’m a married man Eban, a married man I tell you!”

Lolling his head to the side Eban blinked slowly before grinning. “Does that make me the other woman?”

A ration bar was thrown off of his head as a cackle escaped his mouth. 

“Out!”

“Alright!” Eban laughed as ran away from another barrage of ration bars. “I’m gone!”

Ugh, that guy really is such an unbearable prick. 

Yaeri wakes up to somebodies hand hovering abouve her neck. It isn’t the first time and it certainly wouldn’t be the last time someone has tried to kill her in her sleep. 

Wasting no time she slammed her fist into the intruders jaw before grabbing the kunai from under her pillow and attempting to slit the enemies throat. 

The attack never hit, however, as her hands were quickly pinned above her head, slamming the kunai out of her hand and a knee was pressed down onto her chest. 

Both of them paused as Yaeri took in a minute to catch her breath. 

“Ah…you’re the…Taki Jinchuriki?” She questions as the woman snarls. 

“My name is Junko, use it.” The woman’s silver eyes scanned her face before sneering. “I can’t believe you were the one to kill him.”

“Your obsession for a dead man is worrying. Have you ever considered therapy?”

Before Junko could reply Yaeri wrapped her legs around the woman’s waist as she jolted forward, leaving her in an awkward position. 

Wings sprouted from the woman’s lower back as Yaeri quickly moved away. 

They both stared each other down before Junko groans as Eban bursts into the tent. 

He blinks, looking to the intruder and then her before chuckling. “Have you got a stalker, Riri-Chan? This one seems to like cornering you alone.”

Junko sputters in indignation but decides to back off as more ninja burst into the tent. 

“This isn’t over!” She wails before flying off. 

Except Junko seems to have forgotten she was in a tent and left a massive hole in the tent wall as a yelp could be heard from the other side. 

Yaeri rubs her eyes. Yeah, there’s no way that wasn’t a fever dream. She refuses to believe any of that was real.

“Do you know what the biggest plot twist ever would be?” Ikkaku asked Zenji who looked to be considering on if being the guy that murdered their teammate because they were annoying is how he wants to be known as is a viable option. 

Apparently, he decided against it since Ikkaku wasn’t killed right then and there. 

“No.” Zenji stated. “And honestly, I really don’t care.”

“Ok, so,” Ikkaku started, completely ignoring the other man, “imagine if Nakao-Sama and Eban-Kun start dating each other. That’d be such a plot twist.”

“That’d never happen, they both hate each other.” Zenji counters in a tired voice. 

“This is why I said imagine Zenji-Kim. Really, you have no imagination whatsoever, I blame your Clan.” Ikkaku tuts in disappointment. 

Oh dear Sage kill him now. 

"Shimura-Sama." The Hatake greets the man who made no move to get off of the tree branch he was sitting on. "Should I come up there or do you enjoy looking down on me?"

Danzo scoffed but gestured for her to sit next to him. He was wearing full body armour, she mentally noted as she jumped up onto the branch. 

"I see you've managed to retrieve the Raiden." Danzo looked down to where the other man was walking about, albeit with assistance from Eban who seemed less than pleased on having to help the 'elitist bastard'. "He seems to be recovering well."

"It's only been two months since his retrieval. The progress Nakao-Sama has made is certainly not within our expectations." Yaeri comments as the man nods. 

"I've seen the report." Danzo grimaced. "I'm surprised the Raiden even breaths."

So is the man in question for that matter. 

"You aren't the only one. Ikkaku-San started screaming after Nakao-Sama managed to stand up by himself for the first time."

A low chuckle passed through the man's lips before all emotions drops off of his face. 

"The northern front is under attack." He states as Yaeri freezes. "We need more ninja."

"I'll go with Eban-San and Shinku-San. Ikkaku-San needs to be here to heal Nakao-Sama while Zenji-San will stand as the defence."

"No need, you'll go alone with two of my own men backing you." The man offers instead. “We can’t afford to leave the Raiden unprotected with new people. He hardly trusts your team, never mind my own men who aren’t exactly known for being…comforting.”

“At least you’re self aware on the fact your ninja are creepy.”

“Watch it.”

“Apologies, Shimura-Sama.”

She’s not sorry. 

Danzo sighs as he stands up on the tree branch. “I expect to see the Raiden on the daimyo’s seat in six months.”

“Then I’ll be sure to fulfil your expectations Shimura-Sama.” Yaeri closes her eyes. “But that’s not all you wish to say, is it?”

“No, it’s not.” He nods. “The Raiden-Kami prison has been completely demolished with no survivors and no traces on who could’ve done it. How?”

“Well,” she sealed with a sigh, “let’s just say not even the best sensors can pick up on nature Chakra and leave it at that.”

Pandas are not feared for their incredible strength, nor their quick wits. No, if ninja knew what was good for them then they’d be quick to remember that a panda does not use the same source of energy as them.

Really, people are always quick to forget that before the Sage were the beasts.

Chapter Text

Fire was the only thing she could see for miles to come. The northern front was one of the few areas where Konoha-nin had complete control over and was also a good place to fight. Senju Ukou, the only daughter of Hashirama, was on the verge of just giving up this scrap of land. 

The only thing stopping her from doing so, however, was the amount of lives lost so far. Her husband, her brother...and now, even her best friend. 

Still, Ukou would not cry over these losses, not when she still has a job to do. 

Three Chakra signatures dropped down next to her and from the seems of it they were reinforcements. Ukou's teeth grit together. It was a little late but it's better than nothing. 

"Hatake-San." She nods before giving the other two a sideways glance. 

Shimura's men, if the scent of melancholy is anything to go by. While Ukou doesn't approve of his methods she'll just about accept help from anyone at this point. 

Clutching onto her necklace Ukou takes in a deep breath before speaking up again. 

"We've tried to extract as many survivors as possible." Her eyes harden as the wretched order escaped her. "You are to ignore anyone in need of aid, we cannot afford to offer anymore help with our limited supplies. Kill any and all Kumo-nin, that is your only mission until the fire subsides."

They needed time until more supplies arrive. It was a fact Ukou couldn't ignore when she saw the groups of survivors. Nearly half would never be allowed to touch a field again and the other half will need extensive medical treatment until they could even hope to hold a kunai. 

As it stands, war cannot afford to cater to dead weight. Once Uzushio officially joins the war things may be different but until then this is all Ukou can do. 

"Yes, Senju-Sama." Shimura's men chime before going off to fufil her orders. 

Yeari stays, giving Ukou a long, thoughtful look before nodding. "It's a hard choice to make, Senju-Sama." Was all the younger woman said on the matter as she went off into battle. 

Ukou resisted the urge to scoff. A hard choice indeed, one that no one of sound mind would even consider making. 

It's just a good thing that no ninja is completely sane. 

Tsunade kicked her feet as she sat on a wooden swing the academy had finally agreed to put up after parents complained too much about children having to 'grow up too fast'. Which is weird because if they didn't want their kids growing up so fast then they'd be in the civilian academy and not the ninja one. 

Especially during war time. 

The young Senju groaned as she caught sign of Jiraiya. Ugh, that perv just didn't know when to quit. 

"Sooo~ how've you been Tsuna?" Jiraiya asked, trying his best to look cool as he leaned on a tree. 

"Good." Tsunade sniffs. "Much better than you I'm guessing, you know, with that stupid hair of yours."

"What's wrong with my hair?!" The boy squawked. 

"It makes it look like you're an old man."

He has grey hair ("It's silver, goddamn it Tsuna!") like grandpa Tobi, and grandpa Tobi is like...a million years old. That means Jiraiya looks like an old man by default. 

Just as Jiraiya was about to say something in retaliation Orochimaru approached the two with what seemed to be a tomato stuck to his head. 

The boy looked at them blankly before down to his lunch. "Can I sit with you guys for lunch?" He mumbled, hair scattering across his face as he does so. 

Tsunade blinked before getting up from the swing. Moving towards the boy she grabbed the scraps of tomato off of his head as she speaks up. 

"Yeah, sure, I don't want this idiot as my only company."

"Oi!" Jiraiya yelped but didn't protest all that much on the idea. 

Orochimaru nods stiffly as she gets the last of the tomato out his hair. The three of them huddle around the swing as the black haired boy begins to eat his food. 

Jiraiya didn't seem to have anything to eat while Tsunade had already ate hers in class. 

It didn't help that the atmosphere was unbearably awkward, having nothing to eat was worse since she didn't have anything to distract herself from the situation. 

A great sigh escaped her. It seems as though she may have to...socialise. With these two. Ugh. 

"Um so, why'd you have a tomato on your head?" Wait, no, that was too blunt. "It's not very fashionable, ya know?"

Mentally, Tsunade cheered for herself. That was a good save. 

But apparently not since Orochimaru seemed to have sunk in on himself. "I was going to sit with...some other kids and they...didn't seem to like me all that much."

So they threw the tomato at him. 

Jiraiya got to his feet immediately, looking furious at the idea. "Alright, who was the bastard that did it Oro-Chan? I'll beat them to a pulp!"

Not a second later Tsunade was also standing up as she cracked her knuckles with a determined expression. 

"That's right, I have a no bullies tolerance in this playground, whoever broke it has to deal with me now!" Tsunade grinned maniacally as a shiver ran down Jiraiya's spine.

Scary girl. 

Unexpectedly, Orochimaru hunched forward as his shoulders began shaking. 

Both Jiraiya and Tsunade exchanged a glance before quickly freaking out. 

"Don't cry Oro-Chan!" Jiraiya yelled as he rushed to the other boys side, patting his back in a comforting motion. "It's alright, um, we won't beat anyone up if you don't want us to!"

Tsunade fidgeted awkwardly, clearly unsure of what to do but wanted to be supportive anyway. "Are you hungry or something? Eat your food and stop crying." Jiraiya threw her a look. "Please."

Sound finally escaped the boys lips and instead of the expected sobs Orochimaru was found to be...laughing?

He lifted his head, a small grin plastered across his face. "Sorry, it's just that you both looked so serious and I couldn't help myself."

Jiraiya huffed. "Well of course I'm serious, bullies suck so letting them off east will only encourage them. Right, Tsuna?"

"Don't call me, Tsuna." She snapped but nodded along. "But yeah, if someone gives you trouble just tell us, after all, we're classmates and we've got to look out for each other after all."

The boys eyes soften. "I suppose so."

Sakumo took in a deep breath before collapsing onto the floor of his childhood bedroom. Oddly enough the wooden floorboard brought him some comfort, even more so now that his sister isn't here. 

Both him and Yaeri had once shared this room back when they could actually talk for longer than five seconds without the latter storming away. 

Back when they talked talked late into the night, giggling about academy crushes. 

Although, maybe it was just Sakumo giggling, he can't even remember Yaeri smiling, let alone laughing about anything. 

Perhaps it was their mother, back when she would sneak into their room when father was on a mission. She would snuggle in between her children and kiss their foreheads without a care in the world. 

When did everything start to change?

A knock rang out from behind his door as Sakumo froze, sitting up almost immediately. 

He knew that smell...

Teeth grinding together Sakumo picked himself off of the floor as moved to slam the door wide open. He paused in his step, suddenly growing tired. 

"Go away, Tou-San."

Although he couldn't hear the footsteps he knew by the lack of smell that his father had left. 

Good, he might've done something he regretted if he hadn't. 

Maybe Yaeri had a point when she moved out of this house as soon as graduation hit, that stench was unbearable at times. 

Beating the training dummy to a pulp Waido grunts as he moves onto the next one. 

“Poor thing.” Kohari cooed as the Uchiha’s head snapped towards his teammate. “No missions getting you all riled up?”

“What do you want, Kohari?” He snapped, obviously in no mood to talk. 

She shrugged before walking over and to him. “Can a girl not see her teammate on a rare day off?” The look she was given for that statement told her no, she could not. “Fine, Sakumo-Kun asked me to check on you.”

“Well he needs to mind his own business.”

He’s always like this…goddamn annoying, that’s what it is. 

Groaning Kohari shook her head. “Uchiha.” She spat, wholly unamused. “Maybe your brother is looked on more favourably than you are because at least he knows how to appreciate others care.”

Waido fist slammed into the woman’s cheek before he was also punched to the ground. The two tossed and turned before Kohari threw him off, leaving them at a standstill. 

“Goddamn bastard!” She snarled in disgust. “You rabid dog, everyone was right to call you Uchiha Madara’s child, clearly you share the same temper!”

“He’s not my father!” He screamed back, clutching a kunai in the palm of his hand. 

“Oh, really?! Well, your mother always does love to defend him, rumour has it that they were long time lovers!” Kohari huffed, careful to never take her eyes off of him. “But perhaps not, Uchiha Madara would’ve never produced such a weak offspring, despite having a Sharingan you can only activate it for half a second. Maybe your brother is his spawn.”

“Shut your mouth woman! If anyone was Madara’s lover it was that damn Senju, Madara had no interest in my mother!”

Neither of them spoke after that, simply glaring each other down before looking away. 

“Despite all this time I must say it.” Kohari started, her eyes tired. “I really hate you sometimes.”

“You’d defend me with your life though.” He points out, voice confident. 

“Yeah.” She agrees easily. “But I really wish I wouldn’t.”

Eban eyed the man on the floor with what should've been pity but instead was replaced with a feeling of superiority. Perhaps that made him a bad person but the Uchiha couldn't find it in himself to care. 

Crouching down next to Nakao he propped his elbow onto his knee before resting his face in the centre of his palm. 

"You know what I'm going to say, right?" He drawls, as though they'd been over this a million times before. "Doing stuff like this is what sends your sessions back."

"Shut up you insolent swine!" Nakao snarled, his face flushing in anger. 

"Insolent?" Eban scoffed, Sharingan lighting up in his eyes. "I'll show insolent you elitist bastard!"

Grabbing onto Nakao's hair he lifts the other man up so that their eyes meet. Nakao's glare seemed to be rivalling his Sharingan in that moment. 

"Aw, has this venerable one got the pathetic barbarian all riled up?" He spat, looking far too smug for his own good. 

Letting go of his hair Eban let the man fall face first into the ground without feeling even a twinge of guilt. 

"Don't go around acting so cocky just because you were raised to believe that you're better than us." Eban sneered while standing up to leave the bastard where he lay. 

Gosh, he really can't stand that guy. Once Yaeri leaves him Eban will celebrate so hard every nation can hear it. 

And if she doesn't...

Well, Eban has some nice funeral robes he can wear to the wedding. Shinku can crash it too, the Yuuhi hates Nakao just as much as he does, maybe even more. 

Although, Eban does have to admit he is rather handsome despite all of his flaws...

At least he has one thing going for him. Sage knows he needs it. 

Tobirama massaged his temple as two his students entered his office. Without looking up he could tell the two were Hiruzen and Danzo from their Chakra signatures alone. Those two sure did enjoy barging into the tower whenever it's convenient for them.

"You brats, what is it now?" The Hokage spat, looking seconds away from throwing the ninja out of the room. 

Hiruzen was the first to speak up. "We request that Team Tobirama is allowed back onto the field." 

Legally, because Sage knows those brats aren't following his orders to stay away.

"I've already told you." The Hokage hissed as he stood up from his seat. "Team Tobirama is to train for a mission that'll turn the tides of the war. The only reason man power is being wasted is so this very important mission doesn't completely go to waste."

It's been at least two months since the brats lasts legally went onto the field. Tobirama would never spare them from bloodshed out of sentiment, not when hundreds of ninja are lost each month. No, this mission is simply too important for a spontaneous mission injury to effect planning.

Dismissing the Anbu Tobirama marched towards his students as they tense up. 

"Every god damn day I come here and hear about another ninja squad being wiped off of the roaster and you want me to put all their sacrifices to vain for some stubborn brats?" His voice booms as the two lower their heads.

"Sorry, Sensei!" They chime in unison, looking rather sheepish. 

"Oh no, don't act guilty now. Danzo, you and your little group need to stop acting so recklessly, if you want be a discreet organisation, then at least be sure to live up to your name. Hiruzen, if your stupid ass doesn't stop picking fights with every ninja in Konoha then they'll be no one on our side to fight this damn war." He eyed the two who at the very least had the decency to kneel down for mercy. Good, they still fear him. "Dismissed."

God, what he wouldn't give to have Hashirama back. Having his home made weed would've spared him a couple stress lines. 

Messaging his temple Tobirama let out a sigh. His nephew is dead along with a good chunk of his Clan. If this is what his brothers dream has left them with then...

Was any of it really worth it?

Rocking back and forth on his feat Eban looked around to his teammates nervously. "It's been three months and Riri-Chan still hasn't said anything yet, what now?"

She's been awol ever since being deployed to the northern front. Ukou couldn't give them an update anymore since she kicked the bucket. 

In all likelihood...Yaeri is probably dead. 

Shinku looked over to Zenji who nodded. Those two managed to make some super secret language where they can communicate with simple gestures. That's the gayest thing Eban has ever seen, upright losers, maybe Nakao can join them and they can make a group. 

"Yaeri-Chan told me before we left that should she not show then the plan is to go in without her." Shinku informs them, looking rather solemn. "Eban, Ikkaku-San, you'll both take Nakao-Sama to the daimyo's court. Both Zenji-San and I will set up the stage and gather the allies necessary for the coup."

"On it." Ikkaku nodded as Eban scoffed. 

"What's even the point to all this? That bastard has the same political tact as a brick wall. How he survived all by himself for so long is a mystery in of itself but making him daimyo just feels wrong."

Instead of responding with a venomous taunt Nakao looked rather shaken. His face was pale and his hands were shaking. 

Well damn, Eban hadn't thought the insult got to him that badly. 

Ikkaku patted the other man on the back. "Don't worry dude, we've got your back. Even if Yaeri-San isn't here our allegiance won't change."

"Correct." Zenji nods along. "We have no intentions of betraying you if only for the simple fact that any daimyo is better than the current one."

Oh, Eban was way off the mark then on that one. Apparently, he isn't as good at reading people as he likes to believe. God damn it, Yaeri was right. 

As always. 

God, he really hopes she's still alive. 

Normally, Sakumo would call himself a rather calm and rational man. Normally, he wouldn't dare raise his voice at a superior, let alone the Hokage. Normally, his sister wouldn't be presumed MIA at three months of no contact. 

"Damn it Hokage-Sama, you really want me to just sit here when my sisters corpse could be floating around on some battlefield?!" He yelled at the other man, barely registering how the Anbu around him tensed. 

Tobirama kept his face blank, letting nothing show on his face as Sakumo continued to yell at him. Suddenly, the Hokage raised his hand, indicating for the yelling to cease. 

"I understand your frustration." Probably even more than Sakumo does, after all, his niece was KIA along with his nephew. "But we can't just allow our ninja to run around unsupervised looking for a loved ones corpse. We'd have no available ninja otherwise."

"So what do you suppose I do?! Come on Hokage-Sama, you can't just expect me to leave it at that!"

"You're right, I can't." He nods, slowly getting up from his seat. "Which is why I'll send you to the field again. Take your mind off of things and let your bloodlust roam free."

Kill our enemies and stop moping. 

Gritting his teeth together Sakumo stormed out of the office. Sometimes, he understood what his father meant by Konoha being just as much of graveyard as the warring states. 

And there's nothing more that Sakumo hates than agreeing with his father. 

Cleaning out another glass Kakazu's eyes flick up momentarily as two new people enter the bar. Judging by the tension they're either scorned lovers or fated enemies. Although in his experience the line between the two are always blurred. 

Sitting down on the seats the woman with a black cloak spoke up. "We'll have the strongest stuff you've got. If it doesn't knock out an elephant then we don't want it."

Besides her, the woman with a grey cloak snorted. "Maybe you do but I'll die if I have that stuff."

Kakazu snorted as his eyes fix on the necklace dangling from her neck. He's seen that jewellery before, he just can't remember where...

"Well maybe that's what I want."

"Oh screw off."

"You first, love, if it wasn't for the fact I needed you then I'd have left you by now."

"Aw, you need me. I'm so flattered."

Just as the woman in black was about throw a punch he spoke up. 

"Alright, one hundred percent alcohol for the lady in black and orange juice for the lady in grey. Got that right?" Kakazu decided after hearing them bicker back and forth. 

Honestly, he has a business to run. Missing nin don't exactly have a stable source of income and fixing up the bar after fights certainly doesn't spare him any change. 

Even as their faces were covered by hoods Kakazu didn't need to see that to know they were glaring at him. 

Suddenly, the woman in grey sighed. "You got any cigs back there? I haven't had a smoke since this whole war started."

Kakazu nodded before chucking a pack towards her. "100,000 won." He declared as the woman paused. "Look, either take it or leave it, this stuff isn't cheap nowadays."

"Fine, take your filthy money." The woman drawled as she threw a stack over to him. "Just get our drinks."

Ah, so she did want orange juice. Hah, he knew it. 

Reaching down behind the bar Kakazu froze as the two woman pressed a kunai each into his neck. 

Well, fuck. 

"Kakazu of Taki." The woman in black snarled as she pulled down the hood of her cloak. "I'm Junko of Taki, do as I say and we won't hand you over them."

Them, referring to the Takikage. Or at least he assumes that's what she's referring to. 

Slowly raising his hands into the air the woman in grey lowered her hood as well, revealing someone who was obviously of Hatake origin. On principle he knew the only daughter of the Hatake Clan was a woman called Yaeri. If only because her bounty surpasses that of her fathers. But for the life of him he couldn't figure out why she'd be with Junko. 

From what he heard before leaving Taki she was a Jinchuriki candidate and now that her reserves were no longer being masked he could tell that she wasn't a candidate anymore. 

So why would a Jinchuriki from another village team up with a Hatake of all people? Damn, he's really curious. 

"So what can I do for you lovely ladies today?" Kakazu asked, trying his best to keep his neck stiff as to not have one of the kunai puncture him.

Yaeri glanced towards Junko before shrugging. "I don't know, ask her. I'm only here because her grudge against you is bigger than the one she has against me. And that's saying something. I'd rather get her off of my back with this favour so sorry about this."

She certainly didn't look sorry. 

"Yeah, I really hate you." Junko nods in agreement as her eyes fix against Kakazu's. "And honestly? I'm kinda sad you don't remember me."

"Really?" Kakazu raises an eyebrow. "And why would I have to remember a civilian punk that just so happened to be a Jinchuriki candidate?"

Seriously, it's not like he owes the brat anything, let alone a place in his memory. 

Apparently, Junko didn't like this answer as her kunai dig deeper into his neck. "Well, at least you're about as much as deadbeat as Ma said you were." She spat as his eyes widen. "Dad."

Well he'll be damed. 

Tsunade sobbed into her hands as Jiraiya freaked out. Orochimaru stood by his side, frozen in place and looking unsure of what to do. 

"Mama is dead!" She wailed as Jiraiya winced. "What now? What am I gonna do?!"

Orochimaru looked around before kneeling by her side.

"Don't cry." He pleads. "Think of little Nawaki, he needs his big sister, now more than ever."

"B-but I don't know how to be the big sister he needs!"

"That's fine, you'll learn in time." Orochimaru assured her as Jiraiya nods along. 

"Yeah, we'll help you Tsuna!" The boy declared, crossing his arms across his chest while doing so. "Kids love me!"

Probably because he's an eternal child himself. 

Her tears began to dry up as she looked towards the two. "You'd really do that? For me?"

"'Course we would! You're our friend Tsuna, we'll be with ya through thick and thin!" Jiraiya states, a big grin spreading across his face. 

She grinned back. "Thanks, guys."

Nakao watched as his brother froze in place, his face paling dramatically as their eyes met each others. Good, he should be afraid after all the stuff he's put Nakao through. 

"People of the court," he starts, eyeing each and everyone of his loyal followers before meeting his sisters eyes, "as you may have heard this venerable one's brother has accused him of treason against the daimyo over half a year ago now. Well, this venerable one has come to disprove these claims once and for all."

Chattering relit as the court murmured muffled words to each other. He's certain his sisters followers are spreading words of complacency to hear him out since no one has shot up in outrage yet. 

Well, as the saying goes, it's now or never. 

"This venerable one has definitive proof that he could not have poisoned his father."

"Oh?" His brother finally spoke up, his face returning to its normal shade as he quickly gathered himself. "And how, pray tell, can we trust this proof is accurate?"

"Because it comes from this elevated one's own mouth." A man's voice rang out as everyone turned to see the former daimyo, walking towards them with the aid of Ikkaku.

Suddenly, Nakao wanted nothing more than to run into his fathers arms but refrained from doing so. Ikkaku is one of the best healers he's ever seen, undoing so much damage in such little time was a great feat. 

His brother gasped, stumbling slightly before looking at the crowd and then towards him. 

An understanding befell the two brothers in that moment. Their endless battle stops here and Nakao will come out victorious.

All that hard work, every grudge and slight and gruesome injury ultimately amounted to...nothing. 

For the first and last time, Nakao pitied his brother. 

A buzz of excitement filled the room as the members of Team Tobirama exchanged looks. 

"Alright people, is everyone ready?" Tobirama asked, giving each one of them a long look. 

"Yes, Sensei!" They all cheer as he nods. 

Bringing out a small box he notices how everyone's eyes fix against it as he opens it up.

"These are ear pieces. State of art technology developed for this mission." He explains as his students carefully begin picking them up. "With these we'll be able to communicate with each other so long as we are able and are in a five mile radius."

"Hey Sarutobi!" Homura called out to the man. "Fuck off and go see if this thing works."

Koharu smacked him across the head before chiding him for his language. 

"I assure all that 'this thing' does, in fact, work. It has been tested out a plethora of times." Tobirama sighed as he massaged his forehead. "Honestly, have a little more faith in your Sensei."

They act as though he's already went senile with these inane gestures. 

Dear Sage give him strength. 

"Enough chit chat, we've discussed all the details more times than there are ninja on our roaster." Crossing his arms across his chest Tobirama gave them all a grave look. "We will assassinate the Shodai Raikage, their Jinchuriki and their entire elite devision. Understand?"

"Yes, Sensei!"

"Then let's make haste." His eyes harden. "This war waits only for the dead."

Dragging the cigarette out of her mouth Yaeri sighed as smoke flew out. For the first time in a while her nerves calmed to the point where she could think about her plans now that she's been missing for so long. 

From her informants at the local brothel Nakao has took back the daimyo seat with the assistance of his father and sister. Everything seems to be going well on their end along with Konoha's since funding for Kumo's side has ceased again. 

Pressing her back against the tree Yaeri resisted the urge to groan before reaching for the necklace around her neck. She needs to get the necklace to Ukou's daughter, Tsunade. It was her last wish and Yaeri isn't so cruel as to deny a mothers parting gift to her daughter. 

Though, Junko has been a rather big problem. Leaving her out and about is a mistake, especially with her ever present grudge against Yaeri. Even still, she's too powerful both politically and physically to just kill which is why, upon seeing her at the fire at the northern front, Yaeri's had stuck to the woman.

Fortunately, it seems as though the boy who she had killed long ago had finally crossed the barrier between life and death so she doesn't have to worry about him. Good, those random flying Kunai were starting to get tiring.

“Damn it.” She murmured, her face contorting into a snarl. “Damn it, damn it, damn it!”

Throwing the cigarette onto the floor Yaeri stamps on it. 

She’s held Junko off with the promise of finding her father, that promise has been fulfilled. Whether she holds off any further attacks in the future isn’t certain and Konoha can’t afford Taki attacking so soon after Kumo. 

Shimura. Yaeri needs to contact him. He’s the reason she’s in this mess in the first place and by the Sage he’s going to fix this. 

A twig snapped as she whipped her head around to see Junko standing there, her arms crossed and face wearing an amused expression. 

“Something wrong, Hatake?”

Slowly gathering herself Yaeri plastered a blank expression onto her face. “No, nothings wrong. How were things between you and your father?”

“Oh, you know, eventful.” She shrugged, a playful smile spreading across the woman’s lips. “I have half a mind to kill him and take his head in for a bounty. It’ll certainly get some Taki citizens off of my back if I bring in my missing-nin dad.”

“I thought nobody knew who your father was.” Yaeri states wearily. 

“They don’t.” Junko laughs. “But you know what? Dear old dad is threatening to reveal the relation if I don’t give him money.”

Yaeri scoffed. “That man certainly has no fear as long as money is on the table. So what now?”

“We’ve come to a compromise.” She doesn’t elaborate on what that compromise was. “And since I’ve found my dad our deal has come to an end. You were a great sensor, it made the job a lot easier. Thanks.”

“You know that’s not what I meant.”

“Ah…” Junko drawls, “that. No, I won’t kill you today, nor any Konoha Shinobi for that matter.” A tired sigh escaped her. “I don’t enjoy chasing after you, ya know? I’ve got a life too.”

“Could’ve fooled me.” 

A withering glare was sent her way. “Oh shut it.” Shaking her head Junko turned away. “Your Hokage is dead.”

Yaeri’s eyes widen in surprise. “What?”

“On the bright side,” she moves on quickly, “the war seems to be coming to an end. If I were you I’d reveal that those assassinations we made on the way were you. It’ll be less of a shock when you do come back.”

Junko continued to ramble on about something but Yeari was no longer listening to her. 

She survived. 

The war is going to be over and most of her loved ones are still alive and kicking. 

But somehow…

It doesn’t fill her with any relief. 

Chapter Text

Sitting down on the floor approaching Konoha's gate both Shinku and Eban glance at each other before looking over to Sakumo who stood a couple meters ahead. Hatake Itoi, Sakumo and Yaeri's mother, also tagged along for this little reunion.

Their dad, well, he's not exactly winning any father of the year awards.

"You think Riri-Chan is going to show?" Eban asks while painting his nails a wonderful blood red colour.

He's bored and painting his nails is slightly less boring than listening to one of Itoi's rants on "irresponsible daughter's" and "Sage damned fathers" or her favourite, "I swear, she better not be pregnant".

Which...

Nah, Yaeri couldn't be a mother, not only does she have the right equipment and education to prevent that she'd also be a terrible parent. Probably.

Actually, now that he thinks about it Eban does recall her being able to handle children on the D-Ranks they did as kids. Not very well of course but she managed to keep the children fed, warm and moderately entertained.

That's more than his own mum could do for him. While he loves her and all but she really wasn't the best parent, especially not to Waido.

"Most likely not." Shinku speaks up, snapping Eban out of his musings. "She'll probably sneak into the village behind our backs and have the audacity to ask where we had been."

Eban snorts. "Evil. Definitely something she'd do but--" he paused before letting his jaw drop. "No way."

Craning his head to the side Shinku looks over to what the other man had been staring at as a similar expression overtook his face.

There she was, Hatake Yaeri, who was clutching a wound on her side while limping. Though that wasn't the concerning part even if it should be. No, it was the god damn body of Senju 'number one Uchiha hater' Tobirama that Yaeri was dragging with one arm that was troubling him.

Like, he's pretty sure that the guy's body was unrecoverable after falling into Kumo's hands. They were trying to use it as leverage in the treaties, rotten bastards. How dare they think of something so smart before them.

Yaeri abruptly paused as Sakumo walked towards her, a tense atmosphere around him before he stopped in front of her.

Her face remained impassive. "Hello to you as well Onii--"

Sakumo absolutely decked Yaeri in the face with the meanest right hook he's ever seen.

Eban winced as his teammate toppled over, completely unconscious. Well damn, maybe this is his sign to never piss off Sakumo because...ow, that looked like it hurt.

Picking up his fallen sister Sakumo glances over to his mother who didn't even seem to care that her oldest son had just rendered her daughter unconscious.

Ok, neither of Yaeri's parents are winning any awards it seems. They both suck.

"Okaa-Chan, could you please escort Hokage-Sama's body to the tower?" Sakumo asked, as though he was holding his unconscious sister over his shoulder. "I'm going to take Imouto to the hospital."

Itoi snorted but nodded along.

What a happy family reunion.

Although...Eban can't say much in this situation, had it been his brother then he could rest assured that he wouldn't come in the first place.

Tsunade stared the woman in front of her down with a long, meaningful look.

Yaeri sighed before crouching down to the girl's height. "My name is Hatake Yaeri. I come bearing a message from the now deceased Senju Okou."

As her eyes widen Tsunade glanced around.

"Um, should we have this conversation out here?" She whispers, trying her best not to look suspicious.

"It's nothing confidential." Yaeri assured the girl. "Though if you feel more comfortable discussing this inside we can do that as well."

Either way it's not like anyone would be eavesdropping. The Senju compound is extremely secure, inside and out.

"Well, if it isn't confidential..." Tsunade bit her lip. "Just say it here."

Slowly pulled down the collar of her shirt Yaeri revealed a small trinket that was wrapped around her neck.

Tsunade's eyes widened. "That--"

"Your mother's." Yaeri confirms with a nod. "She asked me to give it to you with a message." The Hatake pauses before sighing. "You'll be a great medical Kunoichi, no matter what your late father said."

The Senju sniffled before bursting into tears.

Oh Sage, Yaeri was absolutely not prepared to deal with crying children. Damn it all.

Lying down lazily on her desk Yaeri mentally berates herself for allowing Sakumo to put her on desk duty until the injuries she got from snatching Tobirama's body healed fully.

It's not as though she's even injured that badly. Sakumo is just a worry wart.

A couple broken ribs? Their father gave them much worse injuries as children and he hadn't made such a fuss back then. The sudden emergence of maternal instincts not even their actual mother possessed is actually quite worrying.

"Oh Sage." Yaeri groaned as she turned to Eban who was gossiping with one of the desk ninja. "I think Onii-Chan has eldest daughter syndrome."

"Probably." Eban agreed easily. "He's like...the opposite of my brother. What's the definition for the opposite of eldest daughter syndrome?"

Tilting her head to the side Yaeri takes a second to think about it. "Youngest son syndrome?"

Sure, why not? Let's just make that a thing now.

Eban tapped his finger on the desk before his eyes brightened. "Oh yeah! I totally forgot that Sakumo-San stopped by earlier with a gift for you!"

Leaning forward in interest Yaeri watches as her teammate quickly runs out of the room before emerging a couple seconds after with a weapon in hand.

Ah, of course, Sakumo always did love gifting her pointy objects.

The Uchiha gently placed the weapon into her hands as he went back to gossiping like the proud a member of his Clan that he was.

Inspecting the weapon closely Yaeri notices how it differs from her previous sword almost immediately. For instance, this wasn't a sword, it was a katana.

Yaeri...has experience with katanas. Of course she did, she was a Hatake after all. But Sakumo knew well that the last time she had used one was back when they all lived together and had an actual obligation to use any and all weapons their father could steal and bring back to reforge.

So why bring her a katana when her sword was still, for the most part, intact?

Maybe this was a bribe of sorts. One that she didn't know was for.

It could be an insult to her own craftsmanship skills as well. Sage knows she has never compared to Sakumo in that aspect. Yaeri is no slacker when it comes down to the art but it's hard to stand with prodigies of the art.

Although, perhaps she's thinking too much into this, Sakumo hasn't brought her one of his crafted weapons in a while but he's been nostalgic as of late, or so she's heard. It wouldn't be out of the question for him to bring her one in a sentimental moment of his.

And the katana was very pretty with its cold exterior along with its beautiful white markings.

"Samui Hime." Cold princess. "A fitting name for a brutal mistress."

After all, if the wielder is cruel it is only natural that the weapon shall be too.

It was, arguably, the best gift Sakumo had ever given her.

To Hatake Yaeri: Mistress of the Raiden court

It has come to this venerable one's attention that you still live. Congratulations, this venerable one truly thought you had no survival instincts at all but here he had been proven wrong.

In accordance to our deal this venerable one has taken five mistresses that will oversee your duties as future wife of the Raiden household. Although let's be honest, if anyone is the wife in this relationship it wouldn't be you.

Yaeri, there is no need for you to worry about Kumo or come here. This venerable one will take one of his sisters children as heir apparent unless you give birth to a child with one of your flings. In which case, should you wish it so, this venerable one will take it as heir.

To abbreviate the last point to get the point across do not, under any circumstances, enter Kumo unless it's for a mission or the forever postponed wedding. You give this venerable one enough stress without even seeing your face.

With little love: Raiden Nakao

Ps: your Uchiha teammate is a pretty asshole.

To the elitist bastard:

You think I'm pretty? Aw~

Lots of love: Uchiha Eban

To a son of bitch:

Stop stealing this venerable one's letters to Hatake Yaeri. This venerable one can and will execute you for this offence.

With murderous intent: Raiden Nakao

"Riri-Chan!" Eban wailed as he clutched a piece of paper in his hands. "Your fiancé is bullying me!"

The woman rolled her eyes, completely ignoring the Uchiha as she continued cleaning her blade. While the katana needed almost no maintenance it stained very easily in its markings and blood is very hard to get out. She'll have ask Sakumo if that was on purpose, making such a rookie mistake in his craftsmanship isn't like him.

"Why are you even talking to Nakao-Sama?" Shinku questioned as he continued to run through a set of hand signs repeatedly. Apparently, he's trying to cut down on his Genjutsu signs. "I thought you both hated each other."

Huffing lightly Eban looked away as he burned up the letter. "It's fun messing with the guy, what can I say? I mean, have you seen how red his face gets when he's angry? He looks like an overripe tomato!"

"You can't even see his face when you write to him." Shinku points out.

"Yeah, but I can imagine it which is good enough for me."

Wow, how petty. That's such an Eban thing to do.

Yaeri sheathed her sword, giving up on trying to get the blood out and mentally vowing to herself to give Sakumo the scolding of a life time once she finds him.

Whatever metal he used should never be used in weapon making, that stuff is going to rust real easy with the blood that easily sticks into its design. Even if it's really pretty it doesn't take away from how impractical it is.

"Oh, congratulations by the way Shinku-San." The Hatake suddenly says as her teammate turns to her. "I heard you've been accepted into the academy as a teacher."

"What?!" Eban gasps. "You're joking, right? You hate kids, how are you going to teach them?!"

Shinku scowled as he smacked the Uchiha across the head. "I do not hate children, they simply annoy me." He pauses before sighing. "And besides, I want to imprint as much knowledge as I can on these children before they inevitably go to the front lines."

Raising an eyebrow Yaeri gives him a long look. "Is this because of the...age requirement?"

"Of course it is." Shinku hissed as he lowered his head into his palms. "Eight? Seriously? I heard a couple six year olds managed to graduate as well. We were contemplating making the age requirement sixteen before the war and yet..."

They're letting children back onto the fields.

Gazing down to her hands Yaeri imagines having to kill those toddlers villages are starting to put onto the field.

In the end it changes nothing, she'll continue to kill just the same as before. And somehow, that's so much worse.

"Hey, Tsuna." Yeari waved towards the girl who beamed towards her.

"Hey Riri-Chan!" Eban, you bastard, how dare you inform her about that nickname. "Teach me a new Jutsu! Stupid Jiraiya said he was gonna get Sensei to teach him a fire Jutsu so you've got to teach me a better one!"

Ah yes, the endless competition between baby ninjas. Back when she was a freshly minted Genin both Shinku and Eban were always in between another Genjutsu competition. Most of the time it involved casting a Genjutsu on her and however could keep her under the illusion longest won.

It was perhaps the most idiot thing they had ever done as children but at least Yaeri is now semi-immune to Genjutsu because of it.

"Sorry Tsuna, I can't help you there." Yaeri shook her head. "I can't do Ninjutsu to save a life."

"What?!" The girl exclaimed in shock, her jaw dropping as she does so. "No way, you're so strong!"

Letting out a low scoff Yaeri doesn't argue with the girl as she turns on her heel to leave.

"If you want to learn something cool then ask Mito-Sama, her Fuinjutsu skills are definitely the coolest thing you'll ever see."

And the last, if you happen to be her enemy.

To a crazy bitch:

It's been a while Yaeri, how've you been? Don't answer that, I don't really care how you've been.

In any case I've been wondering how Konoha has been doing. Word has it on the streets that you lot have faired far better than you've let on.

Apparently, another war can be expected in the near future. And honestly? I expect it too.

Oh well, I'll be safe in my little hole in the ground so I don't need to worry. Have fun being flung back into another war though.

Yours not-so sincerely: Junko of Taki

Her panda summon continues to munch on its bamboo stick as it stared down towards the Hatake.

"You know something summoner?" The panda drawled. "Ever since you were a child you've always had this singular technique in mind despite knowing how long it'll take. And now, you're nearly on the cusp of unlocking it. How does it feel?"

Yaeri paused in her meditation, the nature Chakra in the vicinity swirling around viciously as her focus splits.

And then the world slows.

"Honestly?" She closes her eyes. "I don't know. This technique may not even go the way I intended it to go so it may all go to waste anyway."

"Probably." The panda snorts. "But if it does then I suppose you'll effectively become immortal. Kinda. Oh, and it'll definitely solve your Ying-Yang imbalance. Sage knows that it's always impacted your Ninjutsu abilities."

Truer words have never been spoken. Despite all the practice she's put her Chakra system through it's never really gotten better from her original pitiful state.

It's fine, really, she's made up for deficiency in using Chakra through her weapons and strength.

But if she could just complete this technique...

Well, as the saying probably went, Rome wasn't built in a day.

Standing in front of the memorial stone Yaeri dropped off a couple flowers a Yamanaka recommended she’d bring on her visit to the dead’s resting place. Whether they mean ‘rest in peace’ or ‘I can’t believe you died, you goddamn losers’ Yaeri isn’t all that sure.

Th Yamanaka can be bastards when they want to be.

“Who are you visiting Yaeri-Chan?” The woman besides her asked as she placed down her own flowers.

Yaeri shrugged. “Everyone, really. I have too many people to visit anyway so I may as well visit them all.” Turning towards the woman she paused. “And you, Sensei? Who are you visiting?”

Biwako closed her eyes as a small sigh escapes her. “My brother.”

Oh.

Yaeri didn’t know she had one.

“I’m sorry for your loss.” She says, trying her best to sound genuine.

“It’s fine, I didn’t really…” her face twisted into something unreadable. “It’s complicated.”

“Aren’t siblings always complicated?” Yaeri snorts. “Don’t even get me started on Onii-Chan. That boy needs to make up his mind on how he feels about me. One moment he’s showering me with gifts and the next he’s hiding from me.”

“Ha.” The woman chuckles. “I think he’s trying to give you space, Yaeri-Chan.”

In that case he’s been giving her space for over a decade now. Then again Sakumo has always been terrible with time management.

Little bastard could never show up for anything on time.

When the time comes he’ll probably be late to his own funeral. Yaeri will probably have to drag him to his grave. That is, if she doesn’t get dragged there first.

Chapter Text

Allowing her gaze to flicker around the room Yaeri notices a small painting on the wall that had never been there before. Mainly because their mother wouldn't allow something so hideous to remain on her walls for longer than five minutes.

"A preservation seal?" She questioned, a small edge to her voice. "This room has nothing to persevere."

Sakumo shook his head slightly, an ever patient smile plastered on his face. "It has memories."

Ah yes, what wonderful memories they shared here.

"I especially enjoyed the memory of when you were five and wet the bed, causing us to go on a mission to find some new bedsheets before Okka-San woke up and killed us both for interrupting her beauty sleep." Yaeri recalled it as though it were a pleasant memory.

It wasn't, Sakumo was scared out of his wits knowing that they could quite literally be thrown into the winters cold that night. They were Hatake and Hatake's knew the wild like the back of their hand, sure, but they didn't know how to survive in the wild yet. They were too young.

As for Yaeri...well, she doesn't quite recall what she was feeling. Maybe something more along the lines of boredom.

Or perhaps it was worry. Yaeri does remember being in awe of her big brother before...before--

"Anyway." She spoke up, her voice now harsh as she dropped a sword onto the table. "I need to know what type of metal you used on this sword. The blood won't come off the markings."

At the mere glance of the sword Sakumo beamed. "So do you like it?" He asked, looking far too joyful about the flaw in his work.

"I would've liked it if it wouldn't rust so quickly." Yaeri answered dryly, levelling the man with a flat look.

Sakumo blinked before looking back down to the sword. Suddenly, something clicked in that very smile mind of his.

"Oh." He looked back up to her with a sheepish smile spread across his face. "Sorry, I should've explained it to you. The metal I used is from the land of blood. It's called Chi Inu and only gets stronger the more blood is spilled on it."

"Stronger?" This time Yaeri was the one to blink. "How so? Is it harder to break?"

"Not exactly." Sakumo slowly picked up the sword, inspecting it closely as the light from the lamp shone off of it. "It collects the persons blood, gathering it up until it can all be released into a devastating attack. As you may have guessed the more blood there is from different people the stronger it gets."

No, she did not, in fact, guess that.

She squints. "That seems a little too good to be true. What are the downsides?"

"It takes an incredibly long time to gather enough blood for the attack." Sakumo admits with a tilt of his head. "First of all it needs to all be from different people, otherwise it wouldn't be as effective. Another downside is that the metal gets rid of the blood after using the attack. Finally, you need to continuously store chakra into the sword for at least one week, though it can be more, in preparation for the attack."

Huh, that was...a lot to remember.

But also very useful.

"Thank you." She tries as genuinely as she could.

Sakumo suddenly grins like a child receiving the birthday present they'd been asking their parents for ages to get them.

Not that their parents got them birthday presents. The best thing Yaeri had ever received from them was an extra helping of meat that night.

"I'm glad you like it." He speaks up, his eyes softening. "It really means a lot to me."

Yaeri quickly sheathes the sword as she gets up to leave. "It's shouldn't."

Running a brush through the younger girls hair Yaeri reminisces on how her Sensei also used to do this for her when she would come to training with a birds nest in her hair. Biwako, like the elegant and refined lady she was, took Yaeri's unkept mane as a challenge.

Which it was, the challenge just wasn't against Biwako though.

"Do you want pigtails again or a ponytail?" She asks the girl who was happily humming a song that sounded as though it originated from Uzushio.

"I want..." Tsunade trailed off, furrowing her brows as she thinks, "waterfall braids!"

Yaeri slowly clutched them comb in her hand a little tighter. "Pigtails it is."

Tsunade groans. "If you can't do them then why even give me a choice?"

"I gave you a choice." Yaeri countered easily. "The choice was pigtails or a ponytail. You made up a third option."

"Those weren't good choices though!" The girl whined, fidgeting as she sat in a show of defiance.

The Hatake felt her hand freeze for a second before she continued brushing. "Yeah, those weren't good choices." She agrees. "But those were the ones you got."

And whether she likes it or not there will not be another option because Yaeri can't do other hairstyles. If Tsunade wants waterfall braids then she'll have to do them herself.

Even if she doesn't know how.

Shinku sits behind his desk, quickly working through the children's exam papers as he hears a low thud coming from the back of the classroom. Letting out a small sigh he lifts his head to see what the commotion was all about.

Up at the back of the tables Eban sat with Yaeri at his side.

From the looks of it the Uchiha had knocked over a stack of books as his other teammate seemed to be smoking.

"Yaeri-Chan, please don't smoke in the classroom." He sighs, messaging his temple as he does so.

As expected, the woman completely ignored him.

"Oh, just give it up Kuku-Chan." Eban drawled as he lay his head onto the table. "You know Riri-Chan is basically an addict at this point. She isn't going to stop."

"I'm not an addict." Yaeri rolled her eyes as Eban gave her a flat look.

"You were literally going through withdrawal symptoms during the war."

"Was not." She countered, like an absolute child.

Eban stared at her for a quick second before grinning. Because he himself was just as much of a child. "Was too."

Yaeri squints towards him but before she could say anything Shinku spoke up.

"Both of you need to leave." He demanded. "I'm not getting fired just because you both don't know how to behave like adults."

His teammates share a look, silently communicating with each other in a way that Shinku still can't decipher. They then turn to him.

"No." They say in unison, like the big children they are.

Dear Sage, his academy students are more mature than this. How...Shinku grins, how nostalgic.

It was a beautiful morning. The birds were chirping, the weather was nice, some lunatic was screaming about youth. You know, a usual Konoha morning.

Oh, and Eban was about to get punted into the ground by his Hatake teammate. Which is not something a usual Konoha morning would normally have but it's fine. At least Yaeri won't kill him out in the open like this where there are witnesses.

Probably.

Although, Yaeri does look quite mad...or at least, as mad as one can look when their whole thing is keeping an eternally straight face. Seriously, that woman has never smiled before in all the years he's known her.

"I'll give you five seconds to retract what you've just said and as a show of our friendship I won't murder you too brutally." Yaeri's voice cuts through the training ground as the crowd around them cheered.

Ugh, who's side were they even on?! Eban's about to get murdered here and they're all cheering!

Traitors, the lot of them.

"I don't take it back." Eban crosses his arms, firmly standing his ground. "I said what I said and I won't apologise for it."

Slowly unsheathing her sword the Uchiha resists the urge to shiver as Yaeri death stared him -him! a Uchiha!- with the scariest look he's ever seen her wear.

"Then die." She says simply, her face forever unchanging.

The Uchiha rolled his eyes. "Don't be so dramatic Riri-Chan, I know you're not going to really hurt me--"

Uchiha Eban was admitted to the hospital shortly thereafter. At least he learned his lesson on if Yaeri will or will not murder him.

Gently bouncing the Uchiha heir in her lap Yaeri wonders how in Sage's name Eban conned her into babysitting the main houses little brat with him.

Lowering him onto the floor the kid immediately rolled over, nearly knocking down a table in the process.

"Aw, isn't Fufu-Chan so cute?" Eban cooed as grabbed onto the table.

Yaeri looks down at the little hellion that was now biting on his own foot like it was a ten out of ten meal.

"Adorable." She drawled, reaching back down to pick him up.

Tsunade had heard Yaeri was going to babysit little Fugaku and had tried to bribe her with 100 ryo to 'accidentally' drop the baby off of a cliff. At least the Uchiha-Senju rivalry is still going strong.

It's definitely more than she can say about their alliance.

"Damn." The Yamanaka whistled. "Your previous therapist sucked."

"Tell me about it." Yaeri agreed, moving her hand slightly so that the man could better paint her nails.

Shinku had looked her dead in eye before slowly dropping this guys business card into her hand. At first she was sceptical but Yamanaka Fubu seemed to alright.

Maybe she should trust Shinku's opinion a bit more often. He's pretty reliable...sometimes.

"So what then?" He asked, dipping the brush back into the blue nail vanish.

"I stormed out of their office, obviously." The Hatake murmured. "I wasn't just going to take that, you know?"

"Oh yeah, I completely get that. Personally, I would've decked them in the face." Fubu tilted his head to the side. "Although, as your therapist, I would never recommend using violence against someone unless you're out on the field."

"Even if I get a shitty client?"

Sage knows how many clients she gets that don't know the meaning of shutting the hell up. Like no, she does not want to share old war stories with you, those are confidential.

Fubu smiled slightly, the scar on his cheek stretching slightly as he does so. "Especially if the client is shitty."

Aw damn it.

"Though..." he starts wryly, "I can condone allowing one of your teammates to do it for you."

Now that's what she wants to hear.

Holding up a marker pen high in the air Eban waved the object around as the surrounding ninja made their way over to him. Nearly everyone in the Jonin lounge were looking at him in interest and the ones that weren't resigned themselves to sighing in discontent at what he was doing.

Honestly, those guys are such downers. They're all bloodthirsty monsters here, it's not a crime to have some fun in between all the bloodshed.

"Alrighty everyone!" Eban glanced around the lounge, a wide grin on his face. "Today, we place our bets on what piece of gossip we think is true. You can submit your own gossip so long as it is interesting. Any questions?"

Taura, Shinku's wife, raised her hand. "Yeah, how much money can we place on this gossip? Like, what's the maximum and what's the minimum?"

Whispers broke out as everyone started counting the money on their person.

"Good question." Eban nods. "The minimum amount you need to place is 1000 ryo. There is no max amount to keep this interesting. Anymore questions?"

A shinobi in green spandex, Maito Dai if he remembers correctly, raised his hand. "Are the bets exclusive to Jonin my most youthful friend?"

Isn't Dai a Genin? How the hell did he even get into the Jonin lounge?

Well...he is only a Genin in name if he's being honest with himself. How Dai hasn't gotten a promotion yet is beyond him.

"Of course not!" The Uchiha shook his head. "Anyone can place bets. Whether they are a civilian child or elderly shinobi it doesn't matter."

As long as they can sneak into the lounge it's all good. And if they can keep their mouth shut. The Hokage definitely won't be happy about this little betting ring so this little secret stays here.

Another hand was raised by a woman he vaguely recognised as Umino Kohari. "Are these bet's exclusive to money?"

Oh?

Eban looked towards the woman in mild interest. "I suppose it depends on what you're going to use instead." He quickly whips his head around to one of his ex's. "No, before you say it, you cannot use sex."

Dear Sage, this is a ninja lounge not a brothel.

Though the line between a prostitute and a ninja has been getting rather obscure as of late. He's heard quite a great deal on the new...honey pot missions.

Nobody really wants to talk about their existence.

Maybe they should.

"Anymore questions? Nope? Let's get on with the bets then!" Eban began, desperately trying to take his mind off of the topic. "First off we have Senju Hashirama's rather ambiguous relationship with Uchiha Madara. What's everyone's opinions on that?"

"50,000 ryo says they fucked!" Yamanaka Fubu yelled from the bar.

Quickly writing that down Eban here's a few more suggestions being called out all around the lounge.

"10,000 ryo on them being together since the warring states!" Ikkaku screamed from his wife's side.

"Another 10,000 ryo tells me they have an admitted daughter together." Someone he thinks might be Hyuga Zenji (probably not, that pompous ass would never participate in something like this) says from the back.

"1,000 ryo that they were just good friends." Shinku states, crossing his arms across his chest as he does so.

A chorus of boos rang out after the very boring suggestion.

Yaeri carefully sipped on whatever drink she had stolen from an unsuspecting Jonin before giving her two cents in the matter.

"100,000 ryo says Hashirama, Madara and Lady Mito were all in a polyamorous relationship." She decides as some people started nodding along.

Eban throws his head back as he begins cackling.

Yeah, ok, that's brilliant. He loves that idea. It's going at the top of the board.

The marker in his hand stops half way through the writing as his head starts wringing, completely drowning out the sound of chattering as an unbearably wrong feeling washed over him.

Turning around all joy left the Uchiha as his eyes fix onto someone new entering the Jonin lounge.

From the entrance his brother stared back and all Eban could think about in that moment was...how disappointed he looked.

Well, that's his day ruined. Screw you Waido.

Dai jumped around excitedly as he prepared to engage her in a Taijutsu battle. One that Yaeri actually looked towards to, fighting a master in their own art practically guaranteed she was about to learn something.

The proctor of their spar moved forward. "Alright, I want a good clean match. Or, you know, just don't kill each other or give the other crippling injuries, everything else is fine. Oh yeah, and only Taijutsu moves are allowed, no weapons or Ninjutsu."

Getting into position Yaeri readied her stance as Dai did the same, a wide grin spread across his face.

"Let's give this match everything we've got Yaeri-Chan!" Dai exclaimed, pumping up his fist.

"Right back at ya Dai-San."

After all, what's the whole point of this if not to push their abilities to the fullest extent?

"Everyone ready?" The proctor cut in as both ninja have him a nod. "Alright then, begin!"

With that, the two charged at each other.

Gently placing down her cup Yaeri sat across from her mother as the two continued their silent discussion that can only be described as subtle blows of killing intent as they try to catch the other off guard.

You know, normal mother-daughter activities.

The first to break the silence was Itoi, because Yaeri would never allow her mother the pleasure of doing it for her.

"How've you been?" The woman asked, her tone completely dry as she does so.

Ah, Yaeri certainly doesn't miss this.

"I've been better than I ever have been in this household." She scoffs. "Why have you even brought me here, Okaa-San? What is this all about?"

Yaeri has better things to do. Like, for example, anything else. Even a suicide mission looked more appealing.

Itoi raises an eyebrow. "Can't a mother simply talk to her daughter nowadays?"

Not unless she's dying of illness or something.

"Sure they can. But not you."

Never Itoi.

She never really was the motherly type. Hell, she wasn't a family woman in general. How she managed to marry their father and have not one but two children with him was a miracle in of itself.

"That's cruel, Yaeri-Chan." Itoi didn't look all that offended despite that. "I truly miss you."

No she didn't.

If anything she probably forgot she even had a daughter until Sakumo brings it up.

Honestly, Yaeri is half certain Itoi forgets Sakumo is her son despite him still regularly being in the compound.

"Really?" Yaeri glanced down to her cup of tea. "Because I haven't missed you at all."

Because as much as Itoi forgets she has a daughter Yaeri also forgets she has a mother.

Sometimes, she wonders if she ever had one at all.

...Well, that's certainly more material to unpack for therapy. Fubu sure as hell isn't going to be pleased.

Poor guy. Sometimes, she really pities him.

Yaeri stared down Jiraiya.

Jiraiya stared her down back.

There was silence before the woman spoke. "Oh Sage, you aren't my long lost child are you?"

Because that trope sucks and she'd rather not be apart of it.

"I don't know, have you ever been pregnant before?" He asks back, raising his chin as though he were trying to imitate somebodies haunting expression.

If he was then he was failing miserably.

"Not to my recollection." She tilts her head to the side. "Huh, maybe Onii-Chan was the one to have a long lost brat."

Which...yeah, no, that's too out of character for him.

Shaking her head Yaeri looks around the Senju compound. "Do you know where Tsuna is? That girl was pestering me to show her my summons for a while now and I've finally managed to find a somewhat docile one to show her."

Every other panda kept on asking if they could eat the child. If they couldn't eat Yaeri then no, they couldn't eat some random child either.

Why Obaa-Chan thought it was a good idea to give her these summons were beyond her.

"Oh, she's with Nawaki right now." Jiraiya answered, snapping her out of her musings.

Right. Because Tsuande has a brother. Yaeri even went to his birth celebration as well. It's just--

You know what? It doesn't matter.

"Thanks Onii-Chan's maybe love child." She waved off to the boy.

Now, time to find Tsuande.

"I come baring gifts." Yaeri declares as both Eban and Shinku rush to her side.

"What is it?! What is it?!" The Uchiha screeched in delight as he jumped around.

Shinku, on the other hand, was staring at the other man as though he were a freak of nature. In some ways he's almost right, the Uchiha Clan are anything but normal.

Reaching down to her side Yaeri unbuckles two weapons that were formally firmly tied down to her belt.

"For Eban-San I've brought a sword." The Uchiha beams as he takes the weapon. "It can channel fire chakra through it so keep that in mind when you're thinking of unleashing your dormant pyromaniac tendencies."

That happen to be genetic for some odd reason. Because the Uchiha Clan are weirdos that like to pass on mental illnesses instead of skills that would benefit society.

So maybe giving the genetically predestined pyromaniac a sword that can cover itself in fallen is a bad idea...

Eh, it'll probably be fine. So long as the Uchiha don't discover she was the one to give Eban the sword she won't have to create a hundred more to sedate their arsonist tendencies.

"And for Shinku-San I give you a staff." Placing the metal object into the man's hands the Yuuhi analyses the weapon thoroughly. "It extends so you don't have to get too close to your opponent in case your Genjutsu breaks."

And also administers an electric shock to the opponent. Which was really hard to do since technology hasn't gotten to the point that five hundred volts is easy enough to create.

"Riri-Chan." Eban sniffled as tears formed in his eyes. "I knew you cared."

"I don't."

"Don't lie." He cooed. "You love us secretly."

"Burn in hell."

The Uchiha cackled as Shinku shook his head, a small smile forming across his face. "Thank you."

Rolling her eyes Yaeri turns her head away.

There was no need for thanks, she just wanted to put her forging skills to good use since Sakumo wants to be a big show off with his works.

This was purely selfish.

Even so...

"Anytime."

A little thanks for her efforts certainly doesn't hurt.

"And then my ex said--" Fubu hiccuped, his voice slurred as he leaned on her shoulder. "She said I ain't good for nun."

Honestly, this wasn't how Yaeri was planning to spend her therapy session. This, however, was kinda on brand for one of them though so she can't be too surprised.

Yaeri gently pushed the man to side as he vomits everywhere. At least it wasn't on her shirt.

She would've had to kill him then.

"At least you're better for it now." The Hatake offers as the man cackled.

"That's right! My wife is awesome ya know?" Fubu fiddles around in his pocket as he pulls out a crumpled photo of a woman. "Look! Ain't she pretty?"

There was no way to tell if was correct or not. The photo was actually a drawing and not a good one at that.

"The prettiest." Yaeri agrees, because like hell will she admit that this was, perhaps, the ugliest drawing she's ever seen in her life.

Fubu beamed. "See, you get me Yaeri-Chan!" The man then proceeded to throw up again.

Letting out a sigh Yeari rolls up her sleeves.

This is going to be a long night.

"...never tell anyone I did this."

"Not a chance in hell, doctor-patient confidentiality doesn't go both ways, probably, I'm telling Eban-San immediately."

"God damn it Yaeri-Chan."

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Rain gently pattered down onto the ground around her. Yaeri did her best to ignore it, even embracing it as she tried to summon more nature chakra from the surrounding plants.

"How many years of your life do you think you've devoted to the same meditation technique?"

"Probably two years. Maybe more."

Definitely more. If Yaeri has a spare hour it's almost always used to practice. If she had this type of dedication for learning Ninjutsu then she may have already become a master of it.

Her panda let out a low yawn. "Ok, explain to me again what this technique is going to do again? Because I still don't think it's worth all the effort."

Probably not. Still, it doesn't hurt to try.

Actually, it really does. Nature chakra is nothing to mess around with.

"If I master this," and that is a very big if, "then I'll be able to create an aura of nature chakra."

Which isn't all that impressive in theory but it's what that aura will do that is.

Rolling around the chakra in the air she continues. "I will program the aura to rejuvenate my body's cells. In other words, it'll change my DNA into slowing down its natural aging process."

"I honestly didn't think you Hatake were even capable of aging. Your grandmother still looked as though she was twenty even in her later years."

Somewhere in their bloodline a Hatake definitely had a short love affair with an Uzumaki. Because really, there is no other explanation for it.

The panda tilted its head to the side. "You said it slowed down the aging process, not really stopping it. How much is it being slowed down by?"

Yaeri shrugged. "Hell if I know, I haven't mastered it yet."

And at the rate she's going Yaeri is half certain she never will.

"Alright then, what are the other functions of this aura?" The panda prompted her to continue, even while knowing exactly what the other functions were.

Really, they had been over this so many times it was practically ingrained into their souls.

"It's still a Sage mode so this aura will be very hard to be kept on at all times." More like impossible but as ninja are prone to saying, nothing is impossible. "Which is why I'll tie the aura in my sword so that it can collect nature chakra for me."

This makes Sakumo's katana all the more valuable. As it happens not only is Chi Inu metal wonderful for absorbing blood it is also a brilliant nature chakra absorber.

Expect the aura can't even be used by her yet, let alone the damn katana. But details.

"I suppose it will also finally put an end to my accursed Yin-Yang imbalance."

So she'll finally be able use Ninjutsu again. Though maybe at the cost of her current physical strength.

Although, all of this is just theory. Anything can go wrong and as such Yaeri is prepared for quite a few awful outcomes.

The worst one being the least scary one.

Death.

Konoha's tattoos and piercings shop was everything her mother described it as and more. Dirty, uninhabitable and most definitely an underground ring for money laundering.

Yaeri's would've rather preferred going to the high street parlour shop than this place for her first tattoo but apparently Eban really wants to die of infection.

"Look!" The Uchiha grinned as he held up his freshly tattooed arm. "It's a star!"

"Yes, Eban-San, we are all getting the same one." Yaeri grumbled as the tattoo artist finished up the marking in her upper arm.

It had been something they promised to get when they all turned twenty four. Which they all did, by some miracle.

"Took ya long enough to turn twenty four Kuku-Chan." Eban nudged Shinku whose tattoo artist just barely managed to stop themselves from messing up the tattoo completely.

It's always so strange to remember that Shinku is the youngest out of the three of them. The man acts as though he's way older.

Looking through the mirror that carefully reflected the art on her arm Yaeri takes in the image an almost reverent stare. Her mother would absolutely hate what she's done to herself.

That makes it all the more better.

"Ok Yaeri-Sama." Jiraiya's eyes twinkle in a magical way. "You're gonna teach me how to catch a date."

Absolutely not.

"What makes you think I have the capabilities of doing that, let alone teaching someone?"

Jiraiya levels her with a flat look. "I asked around and apparently you've dated half of the male and female population in Konoha. I think you know how to catch a date."

It was not half...maybe one fourth but--

"Honestly." Yaeri drawls. "I haven't got the slightest clue. Just act aloof of something."

"That ain't much but I'll take what I can get." Jiraiya grinned as he turned on his heel. "Thanks a million Yaeri-Sama!"

Oh.

He's actually taking her advice.

That poor boy is destined for failure.

Back in the good old days when Hashirama was alive the tobacco in her cigarette was better and a whole lot more cheeper. His death was honestly the greatest tragedy Konoha has ever faced.

Now though...

"I think I'm going to quit smoking." Yaeri spoke aloud as Eban whipped his head around, Sharingan spinning wildly in his eyes.

"Who are you and what have you done with Riri-Chan?!" The man screeched, brandishing his sword as Shinku also withdrew a kunai.

"I agree, who are you and what have you done with our teammate!"

Wow, this is the support she gets for trying to quit smoking. How sweet.

Rolling her eyes she hits the two men across the head. "Relax, I was just joking."

Because what was a Jonin without their emotional support item? Eban with his flames, Shinku with his Genjutsu and Yaeri with her cigarettes.

It's a combo that cannot, under any circumstances, be broken.

"Oh, good." Eban breathed out a sigh of relief as he deactivated his Sharingan. "I was not looking forward to telling Sakumo-San that his little sister had been replaced by a imposter and that we hadn't noticed it immediately. He'd be livid."

As he should be. Yaeri was just annoyed at the thought of that.

Shinku was still looking at her in suspicion.

"Losers." She clicked her tongue before turning on her heel to leave.

If her tone sounded fond then no it didn't.