After about an hour, Yukari, who had been practically counting the minutes in the library, decided it was time to return home. She hoped that the kids had either activated the soundproofing seals or were at least finished by now.
Using her entrance scroll, she reappeared in her bedroom, her senses immediately alert for any noise from upstairs. Thankfully, the house was quiet.
Yukari let out a relieved breath, though she couldn't stop the slight shudder that coursed through her at the thought of what she'd overheard earlier.
Her years of abuse in the Hidden Grass had left deep scars, making her detest such activities. Even so, she had always kept her composure, knowing her discomfort shouldn't interfere with other people's lives or happiness. It was a personal burden she bore in silence, never sharing it with anyone—not even Kana.
Taking a deep breath to center herself, Yukari headed to the kitchen, her face still tinged with a faint blush. She began preparing lunch, letting the rhythmic motion of chopping vegetables and stirring pots calm her nerves.
Once the food was ready, she plated her portion and ate quietly at the dining table, deciding not to call Kenshin or Akane. They would come downstairs when they were ready. And she couldn't bear to go upstairs or face them right now.
After finishing her meal, Yukari left the remaining food in the pot on the stove, ensuring it was covered and safe. She decided she needed some fresh air.
Ever since she'd arrived in the village two weeks ago, she hadn't stepped outside the house even once. Now seemed like a good time to explore her surroundings and perhaps meet some of the locals.
Stepping out of the Uchiha compound, Yukari felt a strange weight settle over her. The eerie quiet of the abandoned houses and empty streets was a haunting reminder of the massacre that had occurred here over seven years ago. The silence spoke volumes about the countless lives lost and the sorrow that lingered in the air.
As she walked, her mind wandered to the tragedy of the Uchiha clan. Could it have been prevented? Was there a way for peace to have been achieved without such a horrific cost?
Yukari, who had always been against violence and the taking of lives, felt a deep sadness for the needless loss and destruction that had unfolded here.
Leaving the compound behind, Yukari entered the neighborhood adjacent to it, where life seemed more vibrant. She greeted a few villagers she passed, offering them polite smiles. Spotting a middle-aged man tending to a garden, she approached and asked for directions to the village center.
"Just follow the main road and cross the river," the man said with a kind smile. "You'll reach the center in no time."
Yukari thanked him and continued on her way, following the road as instructed. Soon, the quiet of the residential area gave way to the lively hum of the village center. She found herself amidst the bustling preparations for the Rinne Festival.
People were setting up colorful stalls, stringing decorations, and arranging goods for sale. With less than a week until the festival, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation.
Yukari walked through the busy streets, observing the preparations with quiet curiosity. Her gaze lingered on the bright paper lanterns being strung across the streets and the festive fabrics adorning shopfronts. She couldn't help but feel a small sense of wonder at the energy and joy surrounding her.
As she continued to stroll, the scent of grilled chicken caught her attention. Turning her head, she spotted a street food stall selling Yakitori—skewered grilled chicken. The aroma was mouthwatering, and Yukari paused, considering whether to stop for a bite.
Yukari walked closer to the stall, drawn by the delicious aroma of the yakitori, but she suddenly realized she didn't have any money on her. After all, she'd never needed any since coming to the village. She hesitated, debating whether to just walk away, when the vendor noticed her.
"Good afternoon, young lady," the vendor greeted warmly, smiling at her.
Yukari looked around, unsure if he was talking to her. Seeing no one else nearby, she realized the man was indeed addressing her.
Startled, she pointed to herself. "Me?" she asked, surprised to be called "young lady" despite being over 45 years old.
The vendor chuckled and nodded. "Yes, you. Come on over."
Yukari walked up to him, bowing slightly in greeting. "Good afternoon. I'm sorry, I don't have any money with me," she said respectfully.
"Don't worry about that for now," the vendor replied, his voice kind. "Are you new here? Visiting someone?"
"Yes, I'm new," Yukari answered, maintaining her polite tone. "I've recently moved into the Uchiha compound."
The vendor's expression shifted slightly at the mention of the compound. "Oh, so are you a family member of the two Hidden Rain shinobi who've been living there? I heard the boy's father was an Uchiha, and his mum's an Uzumaki, and she adopted the Uchiha girl."
Yukari nodded, her voice gentle but firm. "That's true. However, I am not originally from the Hidden Rain. I was brought here from the Hidden Grass as a member of the same Uzumaki clan. They brought me here with proper permission, and now I hope my family can serve the Hidden Leaf well, just as I trust the village will take good care of them."
Her natural poise and respectful demeanor seemed to soften the vendor's initial caution. He gave her a warm smile. "Well, I hope your family settles in and gets along with the village."
"Thank you," Yukari said with a slight bow.
The vendor began packing a few skewers of Yakitori, handing the bundle to Yukari. She immediately shook her head. "Oh, no, I couldn't possibly take these. I really don't have any money with me."
The vendor waved her off with a laugh. "Don't worry about it. Think of it as a welcoming gift. Just be sure to come to my little stall when you're out with your family."
Yukari hesitated, but the vendor's genuine smile and insistence won her over. She accepted the packet with a small bow. "Thank you very much. I truly appreciate your kindness."
Holding the packet close to her chest, Yukari felt an unfamiliar warmth bloom inside her. The people here, it seemed, were far kinder than the ones in the Hidden Grass.
There, no one had ever spoken to her unless they needed her healing abilities or to deliver the meager weekly supplies the village grudgingly provided. Here, a complete stranger had offered her food simply out of kindness. It was a feeling she wasn't used to, and she found herself grateful for it.
Yukari walked to a nearby bench and sat down, watching the bustling crowd as they continued their festival preparations. The air was filled with laughter, chatter, and the clinking of tools, creating an atmosphere of excitement. Although she'd just eaten lunch, the delicious smell of the yakitori was hard to ignore.
Opening the packet, she stared at the skewers, debating whether to take one. 'Just one,' she thought. 'I'll save the rest for the kids.' She picked up a skewer and brought it to her lips, taking a bite. The tender, perfectly grilled meat melted in her mouth, and she couldn't help but savor it.
One bite turned into two, and before she knew it, she'd finished the skewer. Yukari glanced at the open packet and frowned.
'These will get cold by the time I get home,' she thought. She bit her lip, guilt tugging at her as she rationalized her next decision. 'The kids wouldn't be able to enjoy them if they're cold… it's better if I eat them now.'
With that thought, Yukari began eating the yakitori one skewer at a time, savoring each bite. She tried not to feel too guilty, reminding herself that the vendor had given them as a gift for her, and surely the kids would understand.
Once Yukari finished the yakitori, she neatly disposed of the empty packet in a nearby trash can and resumed her exploration of the village.
She made sure to pay attention to the roads, marking landmarks in her mind to avoid losing her way. As she wandered, she encountered various villagers, many of whom approached her with cautious curiosity when they learned she lived in the Uchiha compound.
However, Yukari's natural grace and respectful demeanor quickly put them at ease, and they found themselves speaking to her more openly.
Yukari felt a profound sense of peace as she conversed with these people. It had been so long since she had spoken with others so freely, without fear or obligation.
For decades in the Hidden Grass, every interaction had been tinged with cold utility. Here, she could simply talk, and that feeling was both strange and comforting.
In her enjoyment, however, Yukari forgot to keep track of the path she'd taken. Looking around, she realized she was now lost. She paused, debating what to do.
The village was bustling, and while it would be embarrassing to admit she was stranded, she decided it would be better to ask for directions if necessary. For now, she chose to keep walking, hoping to find someone she knew or recognize a familiar landmark.
Eventually, Yukari found herself near a large walled compound, similar in scale to the Uchiha compound but located near the hospital. She stopped a passerby, a kind-looking older man, and asked politely, "Excuse me, sir, could you tell me what that place is?"
The man smiled and replied, "Ah, that's the Hyuga compound."
Yukari nodded her thanks and stood for a moment, admiring the compound's grand architecture. As she did, she noticed a young girl in a lavender jacket approaching her.
The girl, with her pale eyes and gentle expression, was clearly a Hyuga. The girl stopped in front of Yukari and greeted her warmly.
"Hello, my name is Hinata Hyuga. Are you perhaps Kenshin-kun's mom?" the girl asked with a small smile.
Yukari blinked in surprise. "I am his aunt. You know Kenshin-sama?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.
The girl nodded, her smile widening. "Yes, I know him. He's a friend."
Yukari's expression softened, and she nodded warmly. "Thank you for being my nephew's friend," she said with genuine gratitude, bowing slightly.
The girl's cheeks turned faintly pink, and she raised her hands modestly. "Oh, it's nothing," she said quickly. Then, looking a little confused, she asked, "But if Kenshin-kun is your nephew, why do you call him 'sama'?"
Yukari chuckled softly, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "Ah, it's a force of habit," she explained. "I used to be his mother's attendant back when she was a child and the Hidden Whirlpool Village still stood.
Even though I was separated from his mother, Kana-sama, after the village's destruction, my habits as her attendant never faded. Although I consider Kenshin-sama like a nephew, as his mother is my closest friend, I still feel a sense of duty to address him respectfully."
Hinata nodded slowly, clearly intrigued by the story. "I see… You must be very close to Kenshin-kun's family."
"I am," Yukari said, her voice gentle but firm. "They've been so kind as to bring me here, and I am forever grateful. It is my hope to support them as much as I can."
Hinata smiled shyly at Yukari. "That's wonderful. Kenshin-kun is lucky to have someone like you in his life."
Yukari gave a small, appreciative bow. "Thank you, young lady. It's kind of you to say so. And thank you for being a friend to Kenshin-sama. He may not say it openly, but he values his friendships deeply."
Hinata's blush deepened, and she nodded. "Thank you."
The two shared a moment of mutual understanding before Yukari asked, "Could you help me find my way back to the Uchiha compound? I seem to have lost my way."
Hinata immediately nodded. "Of course, I'll guide you there."
Yukari followed Hinata, grateful for the girl's kindness and enjoying the company as they made their way through the village.
Hinata and Yukari began walking together, with Hinata explaining that the Uchiha compound was on the east side of the village, near the east gate. There are roads that go straight to the gates on the East, West and south.
She led Yukari through the bustling main road, which would eventually bring them back to the village center. The walk was peaceful, filled with the faint hum of villagers going about their day, and as they walked, they naturally began to chat.
"Are you a kunoichi?" Yukari asked, glancing at Hinata with a kind smile.
Hinata nodded. "Yes, I am. I'm a Chunin," she replied, her voice modest.
Yukari's smile widened slightly. "That is impressive. I heard it takes a lot of skill and dedication to be promoted at such a young age."
Hinata blushed faintly, looking down. "Thank you. I still have a lot to learn, but I do my best."
Yukari nodded approvingly before Hinata hesitated for a moment and then asked, "Yukari-san, if it's okay, could you tell me about your life in the Hidden Whirlpool Village? What was the village like?"
At the mention of her past, Yukari's expression turned somber. Memories of the Hidden Grass surfaced briefly before she pushed them aside, choosing to focus on the brighter days of her youth.
"The Hidden Whirlpool Village…" she began softly, a bittersweet smile crossing her face.
"It was one big family, as we were all part of the same Uzumaki clan. We all supported each other, lived for each other. The Uzumaki could be a little hot-headed at times," she admitted with a light chuckle, "which sometimes led to conflicts with other villages. It was part of why we were seen as warmongers."
Hinata listened attentively, her pale eyes reflecting her genuine interest. Yukari's voice grew quieter as she continued. "But we weren't evil. We protected our own and fought for our people. Perhaps it was our sealing prowess that made the other nations fear us most. We were strong in ways they couldn't understand."
Yukari's smile faded as her eyes welled up with tears, her voice trembling slightly. "No clan deserves to be wiped out in their sleep, though. And yet, that's what happened to us. All the Shinobi villages, save for the Hidden Leaf and the Hidden Rain, launched a coordinated attack on the Hidden Whirlpool at night. It was… a massacre. I was thirteen when it happened."
Hinata raised her hands, her voice soft but urgent. "Yukari-san, I'm so sorry for stirring up painful memories. I didn't mean to—"
Yukari shook her head gently, wiping away a tear. "It's all right, Hinata-sama. Perhaps we had it coming. When someone becomes too strong, the weak grow afraid of their existence. It's human nature to try to eliminate what they fear. After the massacre, I took shelter in a small town in the land of fire, but ended up being taken to the hidden grass village by one of their Shinobi."
Hinata nodded quietly, understanding the weight of Yukari's words. After a brief pause, she asked cautiously, "And… your life in the Hidden Grass?"
Yukari's expression darkened immediately, the warmth in her gaze replaced by a shadow of pain. Sensing the shift, Hinata quickly raised her hands again. "It's okay! You don't have to talk about it if it's unpleasant. I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."
Yukari let out a quiet sigh, her lips curling into a sad smile. "Thank you, Hinata-sama," she said softly, her gratitude genuine. "You're very kind."
They continued their walk in silence after that, the heavy atmosphere slowly giving way to the sounds of the bustling village. When they finally reached the village center, Yukari stopped, her eyes brightening slightly as she recognized her surroundings.
"Thank you very much, Hinata-sama," she said with a polite bow. "I can find my way from here."
Hinata frowned slightly. "Are you sure? I don't mind accompanying you to your home."
Yukari shook her head gently, her tone firm but kind. "You've already gone to so much trouble to help me this far. I would hate to waste any more of your time, especially when I know the way from here."
Hinata hesitated, looking as though she wanted to insist, but Yukari's gentle refusal made her relent. "All right," Hinata said softly, a small smile returning to her face. "But if you ever need help again, please don't hesitate to ask."
Yukari nodded warmly. "Thank you, Hinata-sama. It was a pleasure meeting you."
"Likewise," Hinata replied, bowing politely. "Goodbye, Yukari-san. Please visit our home with your family if you can."
"Goodbye, Hinata-sama. I shall speak to my family about it." Yukari said, watching as she turned and walked away. Once Hinata disappeared into the crowd, Yukari adjusted her robe and continued on her way.
Yukari made her way home, taking in the familiar sights of the village as she passed the Yakitori stall. The kind vendor noticed her and waved with a warm smile.
Yukari returned the wave with a similar expression, nodding appreciatively before continuing on her way. Crossing the river, she followed the main road leading to the eastern gate and eventually reached the Uchiha compound.
The quiet of the compound greeted her, and upon entering the house, Yukari noticed that Kenshin and Akane's portion of lunch was untouched on the dining table. She glanced at the ceiling, pondering whether they were still asleep or otherwise preoccupied.
A faint blush crept across her face at the thought. She considered going upstairs to remind them about lunch but quickly decided against it.
If they opened the door and the smell of their earlier activities lingered, it might bring up memories of her traumatic past in the Hidden Grass. Yukari shivered at the thought and chose instead to sit on the couch.
She picked up a book from the bookshelf, one of many that once belonged to Kenshin and Akane's father, Ichiro. As she flipped through the pages, the story quickly drew her in, and time passed unnoticed as she became absorbed in the text.
Meanwhile, Kana had just returned to the village after her evaluation mission. Her steps were light, practically skipping as she led her team toward the Hokage's office.
The mission had gone exceptionally well, and Kana was confident that she'd demonstrated everything a potential Jonin needed to. Despite having never met her team before, Kana had worked hard to build a solid rapport with them, fostering trust and cooperation throughout the mission.
Unknown to Kana, Yuki had deliberately selected this team for her evaluation, choosing individuals who would complement Kana's leadership style and give her the best chance of success.
Her teammates, who had initially been uncertain about working with an unfamiliar kunoichi originally from another village, couldn't help but smile at Kana's infectious enthusiasm.
When they reached the Hokage's office, Kana was asked to wait outside while her team provided their evaluation to Tsunade. Kana nodded and took a seat on a nearby bench, her heart pounding with excitement.
She couldn't wait to go home and share the news with her children—she could already imagine their proud faces as she told them mommy was a Jonin now.
Kana's teammates entered the office, their expressions serious but relaxed as they prepared to give their honest feedback to the Hokage.
Inside the Hokage's office, the evaluation team stood in front of Tsunade, who leaned back in her chair with her hands clasped. Her sharp gaze swept over the group before she nodded, signaling them to begin their report.
The first team member, a tall man with a calm demeanor, stepped forward. "Hokage-sama, Kana performed admirably during the mission. While she might not be the sharpest tactician, she possesses a natural charisma that inspires trust and loyalty.
She's dependable and took great care of the team, managing her responsibilities and delegating tasks effectively. Though she occasionally showed a more childish side which in my understanding is her natural side, it didn't hinder the mission in any way.
Moreover, her experience as a war veteran was invaluable. Despite not being on active duty for some time, her field skills remain sharp.
Kana also demonstrated her capabilities with earth and fire release, along with several basic sealing jutsu. She mentioned she's currently studying advanced Uzumaki techniques accessible only to her family.
Overall, while she may not be an ideal Jonin by conventional standards, her skillset and demeanor are comparable to individuals like Might Guy. We believe she's more than capable of handling the responsibilities of the rank."
Tsunade nodded thoughtfully, then directed her attention to the rest of the team. "Do you all agree with this assessment?"
In unison, the other team members nodded, voicing their agreement. Satisfied, Tsunade dismissed them, and they exited the office.
As they stepped out into the hallway, Kana was waiting anxiously. They each offered her encouraging smiles and wished her good luck.
Kana, clutching her hands nervously, nodded and thanked them warmly before taking a deep breath. Gathering her courage, she entered the office, her heart pounding with anticipation.
Inside, Tsunade greeted Kana with a small smile, gesturing for her to relax. Kana gave a polite bow, though her nerves were still evident.
"Kana," Tsunade began, her tone calm but serious, "I have some bad news for you."
Kana's expression faltered slightly, though she quickly forced a smile. "I understand, Hokage-sama," she replied, bracing herself for the worst.
Tsunade nodded solemnly. "Unfortunately, you'll henceforth be a Jonin of the Hidden Leaf Village."
Kana froze for a moment, her mind processing the words. Then, as the meaning dawned on her, her expression transformed into one of sheer joy. A wide smile spread across her face, her eyes filling with tears as she beamed with happiness.
Tsunade chuckled softly, leaning back in her chair. "I was just teasing you. Your team holds you in high regard, and Yuki submitted her official recommendation just yesterday.
After reviewing everything, I see no reason not to promote you. You've earned it, Kana. Later this month, after the Rinne Festival, you'll be assigned your own genin team."
Kana couldn't contain her excitement, jumping up and down with tears streaming down her cheeks. Tsunade handed her a new flak jacket, the symbol of her new rank, and Kana clutched it tightly.
"This is your Jonin jacket," Tsunade said with a smile. "Take the next six days off to celebrate and relax. After the festival, you'll need to be ready for duty at all times."
Kana nodded vigorously, thanking Tsunade profusely before bowing and taking her leave. Once outside the office, she paused to take a deep breath, holding the jacket close.
Then, unable to contain her joy, she sprinted toward the Uchiha compound, her heart bursting with pride and excitement to share the news with her family.
She burst into her home, her exhilaration spilling over as she spotted Yukari sitting in the living room, absorbed in a novel. Yukari immediately perked up at the commotion, setting the book down as Kana rushed toward her.
Without hesitation, Kana wrapped her arms around Yukari in a tight hug, practically bouncing in place. Yukari, caught off guard but smiling warmly, returned the hug. "I assume you got the promotion, Kana-sama?"
Kana pulled back just enough to nod enthusiastically. "I did! I'm a Jonin now, Yukari! Can you believe it? Me, Kana, as a sensei! I'll have my own genin team soon!"
Yukari chuckled softly, her voice filled with pride. "You've earned this, Kana-sama. This is all because of your hard work and dedication. You should be proud of yourself."
Kana nodded vigorously, her excitement palpable. "I have to tell the kids!" she exclaimed, dashing toward the stairs before Yukari could stop her.
"Kana-sama, wait—" Yukari began, but her words fell on deaf ears as Kana darted upstairs, her mind solely focused on sharing the news with Kenshin and Akane.
Kana paused outside Akane's door, sensing both her children inside. The soundproofing seals were inactive, so she assumed they weren't engaged in anything private. Smiling brightly, she pushed the door open without hesitation.
The scene before her wiped the smile from her face in an instant. The room was an absolute mess: the sheets were tangled and sticking to Kenshin and Akane, who were lying naked on the bed, their bodies wrapped around each other. The air carried an unmistakable scent, confirming that they had sex recently.
Kana stood frozen for a moment, her mortification giving way to a deeper realization. If the seals hadn't been active, then Yukari—who had been home the whole time—must have heard at least some of it.
Kana's mind immediately went to Yukari's traumatic past in the Hidden Grass, and a surge of anger overtook her.
She stormed over to the bed, ignoring the mess, the smell, and her children's state. Without hesitation, she delivered a sharp punch to each of their heads.
"OW!" Kenshin and Akane jolted awake, clutching their heads and wincing in pain. Their eyes widened as they registered Kana standing over them, her expression a mix of fury and disappointment.
"Get up. Both of you," Kana snapped, her voice cold and firm. "This room is a disaster, and it reeks. You will clean this place until it's spotless—and get rid of that smell. Then you will come downstairs. We need to have a serious talk."
Kenshin and Akane exchanged uneasy glances, guilt written all over their faces as they scrambled to comply. Kana turned on her heel and marched out of the room, her hands clenched tightly at her sides as she descended the stairs.
Back in the living room, Yukari had set her book aside, her expression concerned as Kana returned. Kana sat down heavily on the couch, letting out a long sigh. Yukari, sensing Kana's turmoil, placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"Kana-sama," Yukari said gently, "you don't have to—"
"I do," Kana interrupted, her voice steady but low. "They need to understand that there should be limits to everything. I won't let them be careless about things like this, especially not with you here."
Yukari's lips pressed into a thin line, her gaze softening. She nodded, squeezing Kana's shoulder in silent support as they waited for the children to come down.
Back upstairs, Kenshin and Akane hastily got dressed, their movements quick and awkward as they avoided looking at each other. Akane rubbed the top of her head where Kana had landed her punch, grumbling under her breath. "I got beat up for no reason," she muttered irritably.
Kenshin, silently changing the sheets, gave her a sidelong glance but didn't say anything. His lack of response only fueled Akane's irritation, and she snapped at him. "This is all your fault, you stupid brat!"
Kenshin turned to face her, frowning. "How is it just my fault? You forgot about the seals too!"
Akane huffed, her fiery temper flaring. "None of this would've happened if someone didn't forget to activate the seals because they were too horny to think straight! At least I activate them beforehand, or at least try to be quiet!"
Kenshin's face turned beet red, and he looked away, guilt written all over his features. He knew she was right. It was mostly his fault. In his eagerness, he had forgotten to turn on the soundproofing seals, and because of his forcefulness today, left Akane no chance to think about anything else.
"I just…" Kenshin muttered, his voice low and regretful. "I just wanted to be with you. I didn't mean for this to happen."
Akane's anger wavered at his words, her expression softening as she glanced at him. She didn't say anything, though, choosing instead to focus on cleaning up the room.
They worked in silence, Akane gathering the messy sheets to wash later while Kenshin finished straightening the furniture and tidying up.
After finishing the cleanup, they headed to the bathroom to wash up. The air between them was tense because of the lingering embarrassment. Once they were clean and composed, they made their way to the living room.
Kana was standing with her arms crossed, her stern gaze fixed on them as they entered. Yukari, sitting nearby, immediately turned a deep shade of red, her eyes darting away from the pair.
Her reaction told them everything they needed to know. She had heard. Maybe not the entire three hours of their "activity," but definitely enough to understand what had happened.
Kenshin and Akane froze, their embarrassment now amplified as they exchanged a quick, nervous glance. Yukari's soft blush, paired with Kana's penetrating glare, made the situation feel even more unbearable.
Kana, clearly unimpressed, broke the silence. "Sit. Now."
The two of them obediently sat down, heads lowered, bracing themselves for the lecture that was sure to come.
-----------------------------------
Once again, thank you everyone for your continued support and power stones. And as always, please give me your power stones and comment your opinions. They make a big difference and motivate me to write more.