luv-kakashi

[luv-kakashi]

STAWP i LOVE this ugh 😛 may this love aggressively attack me in the future 💗🙏🏽

Damning evidence – Daichi x reader wc 846 – f!reader requested by @cottonlemonade for A blast from the past, parenting edition<3

Your lips were pursed when your husband got home from work in the late afternoon, and you gestured for him not to take his uniform off. He had been working overtime to earn a bit extra for your son’s upcoming school trip, but he would have to do a little work at home, too. “Our neighbour was just here.”

“The one with all the cats or the one with the annoying tree,” Daichi asked, leaning in to peck your forehead in greeting before toeing off his shoes.

“The one with the cats,” you confirmed, nodding slowly.

Daichi squinted at you. “And?”

“One of those cats was missing when she came home from work. She had reasons to believe it was a catnapping.” Doing your best not to chuckle, you gave Daichi the information you had gotten from the lady before pointing over your shoulder and lowering your voice. “I think our son stole the cat.”

Daichi’s eyes widened. “What? Why?”

“There was a very clear meow from his room when I knocked on the door asking if he wanted dinner before or after you got home. He said that he needed to do some homework. In other words, he asked me not to come in.”

You finally cracked, letting out a little snort of laughter at the same time as Daichi did, and you both spent a minute leaning on each other and snickering at your son’s ridiculous crime. Daichi was quite hungry, so you also stopped by the kitchen for an apple and had a briefing on his day before you made your way to the stairs. “Good cop, bad cop?” you asked.

“I’m thinking cop,” Daichi pointed to himself, then to you. “Mother.”

You snorted, waving him off. “You’re an idiot.”

Daichi scoffed in insult, gesturing to his well-worn uniform and looking somewhat cocky in his next words. “I’m literally a cop.”

You knocked on your son’s door, opening it despite his urgency in telling you to keep out. “We have a warrant!”

Walking inside calmly, you just managed to see your son using his foot to push something under his bed before he turned to you like the young gentleman he was. “Dad! ‘Sup, how was work?”

“You can address me as Officer Sawamura.” You did a double-take and looked at your husband with surprise, before following his lead.

“The police came, they’re investigating a catnapping. A kidnapping. Of a cat.”

“Oh, that’s a shame for real,” your son empathised. You nodded in agreement.

“A meow was reportedly heard from this room about an hour ago,” Daichi told him, pretending to read from the little notebook he had pulled from his uniform pocket. “We have reason to believe you were involved in the kidnapping.”

Your son scratched the back of his head and used the tip of his slipper to draw patterns on the floor. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. Maybe the cat distribution system found a new home for it.”

“Evidence number two.” By now, you were watching Daichi just as curiously as your son was watching nervously. “The wrapper from a cat food packet. Found in the trash can downstairs.”

Your son chuckled awkwardly and looked at you. “Damn, mom. Didn’t know you ate those.”

Holding a hand over your mouth, you pretended to be coughing to hide any hint of a snicker. “I don’t.”

“Son, please be honest with us,” Daichi requested, finally done with the script he had made up while going up the stairs.

“That’s pretty damning evidence, honey,” you added, walking over to your son and patting him on the back. “Is there a cat under your bed?”

Just as you said that, a grey cat made its way out from under the bed, licking its lips before meowing again. The boy sighed. “There was.”

Daichi picked up the cat, scratching it around the neck. “Why did you steal it?”

“I wanted to show this girl in my class. Her cat died, and she’s been so sad about it,” he muttered.

You looked at Daichi with a pout, and he seemed equally moved by the purpose. “That’s valiant of you, but you could have just asked to go pet the cats.”

Groaning, he rubbed his face with both hands. “I didn’t even think of that.”

“Return the cat before dinner. Tell her about the girl, she’ll forgive you right away,” Daichi instructed, a caring smile on his face. “And you’re grounded for the rest of the week, no computer except for doing homework.”

“Fine.” He took the cat from his dad, huffing in annoyance before stomping down the stairs.

Daichi looked at you and wiggled his eyebrows. “Want me to make that two weeks?” he yelled.

Shaking your head affectionately, you gave your husband a big smooch on the lips before following your son down the stairs to get dinner started. Meanwhile, you wondered if Daichi remembered that time he cut his neighbour’s flowers with scissors to bring you a nice bouquet for your first date, back when you were teenagers. Like father, like son.

masterlist

[luv-kakashi]

Fanfic Announcement Time!- NaruSasu Edition!

Hey, NaruSasu lovers! I’ve got two fanfics starring our favorite disaster duo, and both are up on my profile! Whether you're in the mood for angst or beachy romance, there's something for you:

Last song- Two hearts linked by memories, art, and a love that seemed eternal.

Naruto is a musician stuck in a creative block after a painful breakup with Sasuke, a talented artist. Two years later, fate throws them back together — and with old feelings resurfacing, they’ll have to choose between trying again or finally saying goodbye. Expect romance, emotional drama, and bittersweet vibes.

H20 Summer- A breezy, beachside rom-com!

Naruto is a sunny local surfer with wild energy, golden skin, and zero shame. After a wave-filled morning, he wanders into the traditional Uchiha family restaurant — and meets Sasuke, the serious (and very attractive) waiter. Chaos ensues when Naruto starts calling him “hot waiter” and casually flirts like it's his full-time job. Expect fluff, comedy, and summery vibes.

If you enjoyed the fic, consider leaving a like or reblogging! It really helps more than you know and who knows, maybe someone else will find their next favorite fic because of you ♡

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter eighteen - tick tock

chapter seventeen |

The stabbing cold air filled the walls of The Byakuya, biting at the stone and seeping through every crack. The once bustling halls, where shinobi plotted and conspired, now echoed with emptiness. The only sound that remained was the rhythmic clack of The Reaper's heels as she walked through the corridors. Her expression, hidden beneath that hauntingly blank white mask, betrayed nothing, but her clenched jaw told a different story.

Kakuzu's words replayed in her mind like a curse she couldn't escape.

"You've been losing more and more bounty hunters by the day... yet here you are, blinded by the loss of Y/N. You can't even see how crippled we've become."

The weight of the commission pressed down harder with every passing day, their breath cold on her neck. Each weekly report she submitted painted a darker picture. Grave losses mounted: A-ranked shinobi slipping through their fingers like sand, the coffers running dry. Number Thirteen, her prize, the one that slipped away, still out of her reach.

The Mizukage's presence loomed large in every meeting, accompanied by his legion of masked shinobi, their silent stares more oppressive than any words. Their demands for results were relentless, each failure adding another crack in the already fragile foundation of The Byakuya.

The Byakuya was never meant to be bound by the same rules as other shinobi, operating outside the system, enforcing the Mizukage's dictatorship with brutal efficiency, and killing anyone he demanded. But now, with shinobi slipping through her grasp like ghosts in the mist, what legitimacy did they have left?

The Reaper knew the weight of this unspoken question. If she couldn't regain control, if she couldn't deliver results, the very existence of The Byakuya would be called into question. The authority they once wielded with impunity was now teetering on the edge, threatening to crumble beneath the weight of their failures. The Reaper balled her fist tightly, the leather of her gloves creaking as her rage bubbled just beneath the surface.

Without a second thought, she slammed her fist into the cold stone wall beside her. The sharp crack of impact echoed through the empty halls of The Byakuya.

She swallowed hard, trying to force down the lump in her throat, but the frustration burned too hot. Every failure, every lost shinobi, every demand from the Mizukage weighed heavy on her, as she struggled to keep her subordinates in line.

Shisui and I have one mission: ambush the Iwa-nin heading toward Minato-sensei's position and destroy any artillery and supply routes along the way. Despite the fact that I've completed countless missions- assassination, sabotage, infiltration -it doesn't get any easier. Taking lives as if they meant nothing... as if it were a routine task, always left a hollow feeling in my chest.

I tried to tell myself that everything I did was for my family. Following The Byakuya rule and killing relentlessly, I did anything if it meant that my family would be safe so that they would never have to worry about money or relocating again to support the clan.

But if the 'enemy' is doing the same, then who is truly right?

Shisui noticed the deafening silence settling between us, slowing down his pace as we made our way back to Konoha.  "Y/N, you okay? You've been lost in thought for a while now," Shisui said, his eyes softening as he looked over his shoulder at me.

I blinked, snapping out of my trance and managed a half-hearted smile.

"Shisui, you've been a shinobi for a while now...  don't you find it ironic that we kill shinobi for the sake of protecting the village? Is that what it means to protect a village? Killing others to protect our peace?"

Shisui paused, his expression thoughtful as he gazed into the distance. "Yeah, it's ironic. I think about it too sometimes," he admitted, his voice low. "We're taught that protecting the village is the highest duty, but it often means taking lives to do it. It's not easy to reconcile, and it's something that weighs on every shinobi."

He paused, his eyes darkening as he continued, "I don't even know if there is such a thing as justice in the shinobi world. We fight believing in our own justice. But if the enemy is doing the same thing, who's right?"

Shisui's words settle between us like a thick blanket, choking any rational morale thought. It gnaws at my mind over and over. The only reason why I am in Konoha to begin with is for Sumire. yet, everything I've been a part of, the masked man's orders, spying on Kushina, watching every movement of the Leaf, it all spiraled back to a twisted form of justice. His justice.

My fists clenched at my sides and my heart pounding with the conflict in my head. "What if none of us are right? How will we ever find peace if we're just protecting those we love?"

He stared off into the distance as his eyes clouded with darkness. "Maybe we won't," he said softly. "Maybe that's the real tragedy of being a shinobi." The silence that followed felt suffocating. The cold wind brushed against my skin as I jumped through the trees.

"But," he added, breaking the silence, "that's why we have to hold on to something. Even  if peace seems impossible...it's worth it to protect what I hold dear."

How could I protect what was precious to me if doing so meant sacrificing others? Would there ever be a way to break free from this cycle?

Although Konoha has graciously welcomed me into their home, a shadow lurks behind me watching my every move, reminding me of my purpose in Konoha. A duty, a promise, a threat. The masked man's grip on me, on Sumire, looms like a storm cloud, always there, always pressing.

But I just can't abandon Sumire, the only family I have left. Would Konoha accept her too? Could I bring her here, to this place that has shown me kindness, and protect her without betraying everything I've been forced to keep hidden?

If only she could be here by my side, safe within the walls of Konoha, away from the shadows of The Byakuya and the masked man's reach. Then, maybe I could protect all those I love without having to sacrifice one for the other.

But what if Konoha won't accept her? What if my choice between them has already been made, and I'm just blinded by the thought of protecting them all, saving myself from the bloodshed of this violent cycle of hatred? .

'Where did I go wrong?' I whispered, staring at myself in the mirror. The longer I stare at myself, the more unrecognisable I look. My eyes drooped. The bags under my eyes stained darker than ever. Kushina sensei's right, my hair has grown since I arrived.  I ripped her hairclip from my hair.

Sumire sang mindlessly as the sound of soft sizzling echoed through the cabin. Rays of moonlight slithered past the moss-covered window, and the tap relentlessly dripped. Drip, drop. Drip, drop. Each drip echoed in my ears telling me to run. Run as far as I can. Each drop reminded me that it doesn't have to end like this.

I closed my eyes desperately searching for a way out of this mess. I don't want to have to betray Kushina sensei, I don't want to lose everything that means so much to me.

I thought fleeing to Konoha would free me of this sin. Yet every time I get lost in Shisui's eyes, the guilt washes over me as I drown knowing that Shisui has fallen for a lie. And every lie I've told him now feels like a betrayal written across my skin.

I walk out into the kitchen area and find Sumire plating up some white rice and meat. She hummed a lullaby I recognised, one that mother would always sing us when we could never sleep.

"Sumire... let's go home," I whispered, walking over to her taking her hands into mine. Sumire froze and her eyes, wide with surprise, fixed on mine.

"Home?" she echoed softly, searching my face trying to understand my proposition. I tightened my grip on her hands, feeling the warmth of her palms.

"Yeah... let's go home. It will be just us from now on. No more hiding in this cabin, no more running at the crack of dawn back to Konoha, just me and you."

She looked down at our joined hands, her fingers pulling away from my touch. "But what about the masked man?" Her voice wavered as she pulled her hands away from me.

A lump formed in my throat, but I pushed through. "If he finds us, I'll deal with him. But how long can we keep living like this? You in this cabin, so far away from everyone else and never having the chance to see the world, and I'm many miles and miles away from you. But we owe it to ourselves, to Mom..."

Sumire's face softened, her eyes filling with a familiar sadness. She took a shaky breath, looking around at the small, quiet cabin that had been her world for so long and she took my hand and squeezed my fingers. "Okay, let's go," she whispered.

A mix of hope, fear and adrenaline filled the air. We were finally saying goodbye to Konoha. I cannot keep lying and betraying those closest to me. As I knelt, Sumire climbed onto my back, her small arms wrapping tightly around my shoulders. I could feel her heartbeat against my back. All this time, I'd fought my battles alone, constantly pulled between duty and loyalty, but now, with her so close, it felt like I could finally breathe.

Every night I spent in Konoha, every mission with Shisui and Team Two, every fleeting moment of peace, they'd all been overshadowed by this one goal. To run. To leave behind this web of deception and betrayal before it consumed me.

I adjusted Sumire's weight, feeling her press her cheek against my shoulder, seeking comfort. "Are you ready?" I asked softly.

She whispered, "Yes," her voice barely audible against the night air.

We stepped out of the cabin for good, the night air biting against our skin as if trying to pull us back. The cold crept into every part of me, but I kept moving forward, Sumire clutching tightly to my back. I glanced up at the stars, bright against the inky sky, feeling their distant gaze urging me forward.

Sumire shifted slightly, her cheek pressing against my shoulder, her breath warm even as it mingled with the chilly air. "Do you think... do you think we'll make it?"

"I'm sure we will."

Just as I muttered those words, Sumire's eyes widened as an invisible force wrapped around her throat, cold and relentless. Her fingers clawed at her neck, desperate to loosen the grip, but there was nothing to grab onto. Her breaths came shallow and frantic, each one harder to draw than the last, as if the very air around her had thickened, pressing in on her chest. She clutched her chest, the pain becoming far too much for her to bear. Her vision blurred and her limbs went numb as her body felt limp in my arms.

"Sumire? Sumire?!" I shouted, my voice trembling as I laid her gently on the ground. My eyes darted over her body, searching for any visible injury, any mark, any sign of what was happening. But there was nothing. No wounds, no visible signs, just the terror in her eyes, and her chest rising and falling in desperate, shallow breaths.

My hands shook as I pressed my fingers against her neck, feeling her racing pulse beneath her skin. "Stay with me, Sumire," I whispered, my heart pounding with fear.

I wracked my mind, running through every jutsu I'd ever seen, every story I'd ever heard of techniques that could strangle without a touch. "This... this has to be genjutsu," I muttered under my breath. If it was, I needed to break it- But how?

"Foolish girl, did you really think you could run away from me?"

A low, guttural chuckle echoed behind me, freezing my blood mid-pulse. I whipped around, my breath catching as my gaze met the glint of his single eye through that hauntingly familiar mask. Shock ripped through me, and my knees buckled slightly under its weight. My mouth opened, but no sound came. Every instinct in me wanted to fight. Every fibre of my being screamed. We're so close to being home.

The masked man took a slow step closer, his presence overwhelming, suffocating.

"I will not ask again you insolent brat. Tell me about Kushina Uzumaki's weaknesses."

My hands holding Sumire trembled. Each time I opened my mouth, my lips quivered and no matter how hard I struggled, the words refused to form. My throat felt tight, as if the air itself had turned against me ears blurred my vision, mingling with the icy wind that bit at my skin, but all I could see was Sumire's face, pale and contorted in pain. Her breaths were shallow, desperate gasps slipping through clenched teeth, and I felt powerless.

"Speak," the masked man ordered, his voice sharp and unforgiving. Each syllable cut into me, making my hands shake harder.

"I..." My voice cracked, barely audible against the sound of Sumire's strained whimpers. "I have nothing... There's nothing I could tell you that would be useful to you. She's a jounin level kunoichi and she's married to Minato-sensei. She's also my sensei. Kami, that's all I know, I promise."

"Pathetic," he said, taking a menacing step closer. His towering figure blocked out the moonlight, casting a shadow that seemed to swallow us whole, "Is that all you have to say? It has been 3 months since I instructed you to infiltrate Konoha for me and this is all you have to show for it?"

The masked man knelt down, his hand tangling roughly in my hair and yanking my head back. Pain shot through my scalp, forcing a strangled gasp from my throat as I was made to meet his gaze.  My reflection shone in his eyes, distorted and trembling.

"Tell me why I should spare her life, you foolish Uzumaki," he sneered from under his mask, pulling a kunai from under his cloak as he traced the blade across Sumire's skin.

"Let go of her!" I choked out, my voice barely a whisper against the storm of fear swirling inside me.

The masked man tilted his head, as if amused by my defiance. "You're in no position to make demands."

"Look... just give me a few more days, I promise I'll get more information for you," I sputtered. I frantically patted down my body until my fingers brushed over the side of my arm undoing the jutsu. Three scrolls fell out hitting the cold ground. Nuibari, Kabutowari and Samehada.

"Take these scrolls, they contain three of the seven swords belonging to the swordsmen of the mist... it's all I can offer you for now."

He tilted his head, his silence unnerving. "You're offering me these?" His voice was calm, but it carried a razor-sharp edge of suspicion, cutting through my frantic breath. "The prized weapons of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen... Do you think I'm a fool, Y/N?"

I swallowed hard, my fingers trembling as I reached out to steady Sumire. "No... No tricks, I swear. These scrolls are real," My voice cracked under the weight of my desperation. "Just give me more time. I can get you more on Kushina, on the village."

The masked man stood, his figure swallowed me whole. He reached down, his gloved hand brushing over one of the scrolls, his posture eerily still as he picked it up. The silence stretched thin, the sound of Sumire's labored breathing and my own thundering heart the only things filling the void.

Finally, he spoke, his tone measured yet laced with a cold amusement. "You're resourceful, I'll give you that. But these swords won't save you if you're lying to me." He straightened, the scrolls now in his grasp. "You have three days to get your information straight. Three days you insolent brat."

He disappeared into the darkness leaving a chill in the air. I rushed to get Sumire back into the cabin. Her skin began to regain its warmth. The unnatural stillness of her body gave way to soft, steady breaths, each one like a fragile thread tethering her back to me. I brushed damp strands of hair from her face, my fingers trembling as I checked her pulse once more, just to be sure.

"Sumire..." I whispered, my voice cracking as relief washed over me. But it was fleeting.

I sank to my knees beside her, my heart still racing, and stared at the floor. The encounter with the masked man replayed in my mind. Three days. That was all I had.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

The Byakuya, an organisation like the Anbu yet all it aims to do is enforce the brutal dictatorship of the Mizukage. Which mainly includes bounty hunting the enemies of the Mist.

Yet The Reaper constantly falls short of the Mizukage's demands. With A-ranked shinobi escaping each day and money haemorrhaging with each escape, the Reaper doesn't know how she's going to face the Mizukage.

And her favourite. Her daughter. Kunoichi Thirteen. Y/N is no longer in her grasp.

Stay tuned to find out why the Reaper is so obsessed with Y/N.

Y/N hates this. She hates the guilt building up inside her. The longer she stays in Konoha the harder it will be to leave.

But at this rate, with the Masked Man's genjutsu on Sumire. Y/N has no option to leave. She has no choice.

Only three days.

But you guys, I finished writing the turning point for this arc. Chapter 25. Im so broken. But that means I'm officially One whole arc in!!! I didn't think i'd make it this far i'm so proud!

I hope you're enjoying the story! And as always, you can find this story on wattpad (if you prefer wattpad formatting)

Love, Suri!

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter seventeen - nightmare

chapter sixteen | chapter eighteen

The cabin was slowly starting to look like home... well at least a home. Fewer cobwebs marked their territory across the room and the floorboards creaked less often as we tiptoed around them.

Between the odd missions here and there I managed to slip away from the village and deliver small bits of furniture and trinkets I had collected. A rickety chair by the fireplace, an old shelf I had found discarded in the marketplace, and a few cushions I managed to sew together in my free time.

It wasn't much, but every time I walked in, I felt a little more at ease. The once-empty, cold walls now held warmth, though faint. There was something comforting about it, knowing that this place, away from the village, was just like my little attic world with Sumire. 

"Sumire, have you ever fallen in love?" I asked softly, my voice barely above a whisper as I sat cross-legged in front of her. The sun filtered through the window, casting warm patches of light across the room, and her fingers moved deftly, mindlessly braiding my hair.

She paused for a moment, her touch still gentle, though I could feel the weight of the silence between us. Sumire had always been the stronger one, not just because she was my older sister but because her spirit was unshakable. Even after all the pain, after everything life had taken from her, her heart remained whole.

"Love..." she murmured, her voice thoughtful, distant. "It's different for everyone, you know? It's not just about romance, Y/N. Sometimes love is... fighting for someone, protecting them. Sometimes, it's giving up everything for them." She sighed, and I felt her fingers tighten slightly on the braid.

"Do you remember the day I quit the Academy?" she asked. She took a deep breath, and I could hear the pain in it. The kind of pain that was buried so deep that time could never truly heal it. I swallowed hard, my heart tightening in my chest as I nodded.

I remembered it as if it had happened just yesterday. The day Sumire lost her mobility... The day everything changed. She had left the house that morning, perfectly healthy, excited even. My big sister, the one who would become a kunoichi strong enough to protect our family, our future.

But when she came back home, it wasn't the same Sumire who had left.

The memory hit me like a punch to the gut. The sound of her struggling footsteps as she was carried through the door. Her face pale, eyes wide and filled with terror. Her once-strong frame broken, and her spirit shattered as our mother screamed in horror. I could still feel the chill in the air that day, the way my legs had gone numb as I realized something terrible had happened. something none of us could undo.

"Your injury..." I whispered, my voice catching in my throat as I tried to suppress the flood of emotions that always came with this memory.

Sumire smiled, but it was a small, sad thing.

"I wasn't supposed to come home that day..." Sumire's voice wavered as she paused, her fingers running absentmindedly through the ends of my braid.

"Aren saved me," she finally said, her voice soft but filled with an old ache. "We were forced to battle each of our classmates... part of some twisted training exercise. I just... I wasn't strong enough to protect myself."

I froze at the mention of Aren, the name pulling me back to old memories I hadn't thought about in years. He had been one of Sumire's closest friends at the Academy, always by her side, and I remembered him as the bright, determined kid who never let anyone push him around.

"I was getting overwhelmed," Sumire continued, her voice steady but with an undercurrent of emotion. "It was like everything I had learned, everything I had trained for, just disappeared the moment we were pitted against each other. I could feel myself falling behind, my chakra running low... I couldn't keep up." She shook her head, her eyes distant as if she were reliving the memory.

It's a memory that all of us who went to the Academy in Kirigakure have. The chaos of the training ground flooded with the blood of our classmates fighting against each other in the hopes of being made Genin. Many of them desperately clinging onto a thin thread of life. My stomach twisted at the image.

"And then... there was Aren." Her voice grew quieter, almost as if she were afraid to say his name out loud. "He threw himself into the fight, right in front of me. He took on my opponents, all of them, without hesitation. He was... relentless."

Her hands stilled in my hair, and for a moment, the room felt suffocatingly quiet. I wanted to say something, to tell her it wasn't her fault, but the words stuck in my throat.

"Aren wasn't supposed to protect me," she said after a long silence. "We were supposed to fight together, as equals. We promised each other that as soon as we were out, we would run. Run away from it all. But in the end, he paid the price for my weakness. He fought to keep me alive, and when he couldn't fight anymore..." Her voice cracked, the words catching in her throat.

I squeezed her hand gently, trying to ground her, to let her know I was here, listening.

"And even then, I barely even made it out alive."

"I was supposed to die that day, Y/N," Sumire said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "But Aren saved me. He gave me the chance to come home... and I regret that I never told him how I felt about him."

Her voice cracked on the last word, and I could see the pain etched into her features, the burden of unspoken emotions she had carried for so long. My heart clenched as I reached out, placing my hand over hers, trying to offer some kind of comfort.

"You were in the middle of a battle, Sumire," I whispered, my voice gentle. "You couldn't have known what was going to happen."

She shook her head, her eyes filled with unshed tears. "But I knew, Y/N. I knew how I felt about him even before that day. I just... I never said it. I thought we had time. I thought... I thought I'd always have him there, by my side."

"I was too scared," Sumire continued, her voice barely above a whisper. "Scared of what it would mean if I said it out loud. Scared of losing him if I told him the truth. And now... now it's too late. I'll never get the chance to say the words I love you."

I squeezed her hand tightly. "You didn't lose him, Sumire. He's still with you. Aren... he cared about you too. That's why he protected you. He wouldn't want you to carry this regret."

A single tear slipped down her cheek as she looked at me, her eyes filled with a grief I could barely comprehend. "I just wish I could've told him, Y/N. Even once. I wish he knew..."

I pulled her into a tight hug, holding her as the weight of her emotions finally spilled over. "He knew, Sumire," I whispered into her hair. "I'm sure he knew."

For a long moment, we sat there in silence, wrapped in each other's embrace as the quiet of the room filled the space around us. Sumire's sobs were soft, but each one pierced through me, a reminder of the pain she had carried for so long.

"He was my everything," Sumire whispered against my shoulder, "He made me feel wanted, he made me feel heard. I try not to dwell too much but sometimes... it's hard not to think about what could have been, you know?"

"I'm so sorry for making you relive this, Sumire."

"I.. I just have so much love for him with no one to give it to," she said as I felt her solemnly smile against my skin. "I would rather talk about him than have him become a fading memory."

Sumire slowly sat up as she wiped away the last of her tears, "And that's my second cry of the day!" she chuckled.

"Second?" I questioned as I looked at her quizzically.

"It's October 14th, Y/N" Sumire muttered as she watched the realisation dawn on my face.

The day that our mother died.

Talks of peace negotiations have been echoing throughout Konoha, finally providing an end to the violence and bloodshed committed on the front lines.

Yet at the end of the day, it is all talk. Kushina sensei, Shisui and I have been dispatched to the frontlines, on the border between the Hidden Grass Village and the Land of Earth to support Minato sensei.

The chill of the night air cut through the silence as we made our way through the dense forest bordering the Hidden Grass Village. Moonlight filtered through the canopy above, casting pale shadows that seemed to dance with every step we took. The tension in the air was palpable, and despite the hushed murmurs of peace talks back in Konoha, the reality of war still lingered heavily around us.

"Stay alert," Kushina-sensei whispered, her voice low but steady as she led us through the rugged terrain. Her long red hair was tied back and hidden beneath her cloak. She moved with a quiet and daunting. Beside her, Shisui was a shadow, his gaze focused and vigilant.

I followed closely behind, every muscle in my body taut with anticipation. It felt surreal, being here on the frontlines after hearing so much about the rumored ceasefire.

But words alone couldn't erase the bloodshed, the pain, and the loss that had been carved into the lives of so many. Even if the negotiations succeeded, it wouldn't bring back the fallen or heal the wounds left behind.

Kushina-sensei paused, raising a hand to signal us to stop. We crouched low, and I could hear the faint murmurs of voices up ahead. Hidden by the underbrush, we peered out, our eyes narrowing as we spotted a small camp just beyond the trees. A group of Iwa-nin were huddled around a fire, their expressions grim and weary.

"Looks like they're setting up for the night," Shisui murmured, his voice barely audible. His eyes flicked to Kushina-sensei, waiting for her command.

She nodded slightly, her gaze sharp. "We'll avoid direct confrontation unless necessary. Minato's orders were clear: gather information, disrupt their operations if possible, but do not engage unless absolutely necessary."

"Understood," I whispered, gripping my kunai tightly. The cold metal against my skin grounded me, reminding me to stay focused.

We moved silently, circling around the camp with practiced precision. Every rustle of leaves, every crack of a twig underfoot sent my heart racing, but I forced myself to remain calm. This wasn't like the missions back in the village, the menial tasks or even the more dangerous ones we'd faced before. This was the reality of war, the kind that didn't care about peace talks or negotiations.

As we reached a vantage point overlooking the enemy camp, I glanced over at Shisui. His expression was unreadable, but there was a determination in his eyes that I'd come to recognize. He was ready for anything, as always.

"Y/N," Kushina-sensei's voice pulled me from my thoughts. "Keep your eyes open. We're looking for anything that might indicate their plans. Supplies, maps, anything."

I nodded, steeling myself as I scanned the camp below. Every detail, no matter how small, could be crucial. But even as I focused on the task at hand, the uncertainty lingered in the back of my mind.

What did peace truly mean? And how much more blood would be spilled before we could reach it?

After gathering as much information as we could, Kushina sensei drew her hands together, her fingers dancing through a series of hand sign- a signal we agreed on prior to the mission to fall back from the enemy camp.

Her eyes locked onto ours, and with a subtle nod, she signaled for us to fall back.

We retreated silently, the forest swallowing us in its dark embrace as we slipped away from the enemy camp. My heart pounded in my chest, the adrenaline still coursing through my veins. Shisui moved ahead of me, his movements swift and silent, like a shadow passing through the night. I followed closely, my senses on high alert, every rustle of leaves and snap of a twig setting my nerves on edge.

Once we were a safe distance away, Kushina-sensei slowed her pace. "Good work, both of you," she whispered, her voice still hushed but filled with relief. "We need to relay this information to Minato."

Shisui nodded, his gaze steady. "It looks like they're planning to fortify their position along the border. If those supply routes are disrupted, it could delay their operations significantly."

"I think Shisui's right, from what I could see from their scrolls, they plan to dispatch more than 1000 Iwa-nin to the border. Lord Hokage said that many of our platoons are undergoing medical treatment, so we are already shinobi down. If we can stop those reinforcements from reaching the front lines, it might just give us the edge we need," I continued, glancing between Shisui and Kushina-sensei. "But we would probably have to split up."

"Splitting up divides our forces, but I would rather you weren't at the frontlines, Y/N. You're still a genin," Kushina said as her expression softened as she gazed at me. "I'll go support Minato, Shisui, Y/N do you think you could delay their operations and ambush their reinforcements?"

Shisui glanced at me, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "It's risky, but if we work together, I think we can pull it off."

I nodded, my heart pounding in my chest. "We'll do our best, Kushina-sensei. We'll buy you and Minato-sensei as much time as we can."

Kushina's gaze softened further, a mix of pride and concern in her eyes. "Alright, but be careful. Both of you. Shisui, keep her safe."

"Of course, sensei," Shisui said with a reassuring smile. "We've got this."

"Anyways, enough ninja talk. Let's set up camp here, we have been travelling far too long and we should get a little bit of sleep before heading out," Kushina sensei said as she set up a small fire.

"I'll keep watch and wake you up in a few hours," Shisui said as he sat against the tree.

Kushina-sensei nodded, stifling a yawn as she pulled out a blanket. "Sounds good. We'll need to be sharp for tomorrow." She glanced over at me. "Get some rest, Y/N. You've earned it."

I hesitated, glancing at Shisui, who gave me a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, I've got it covered. You just focus on getting some sleep."

"Okay," I agreed reluctantly, setting up my blanket. I gazed up, staring up at the stars that peeked through the canopy of leaves. The soft crackles of the fire and the gentle rustling of the trees lulled me to sleep.

The rain fell in torrents, a relentless cascade that blurred the world into a wash of gray. The sun refused to show its head as the rain plunged down. I stood alone in the middle of an endless field, the tall grass whipped and flattened by the wind. The horizon stretched on endlessly, but the rain seemed to close in on all sides, a suffocating curtain that shut out the rest of the world.

October 14th... I remember this day so vividly.

"Y/N Uzumaki," a voice called out from behind me, sharp and cutting through the relentless rain like a blade. I turned, the storm's fury almost muffled as I took in the sight of the woman standing a few feet away. She was tall, her posture commanding and unyielding. Her presence was eerie, made even more so by the plain white mask that obscured her face entirely. No eyes, no mouth, just a blank, emotionless facade that hid everything beneath. The mask gleamed dully in the dim light, casting an unsettling contrast against the darkness surrounding us.

"You can call me Reaper-sama," she said, her voice resonating with an authoritative edge, yet there was a strange, almost mocking lilt to it. It sent a chill down my spine, sharper than the cold rain that continued to pour relentlessly around us. "I'm here to help you train."

I couldn't tear my gaze away from her, the rain pooling at my feet as I tried to gauge her intent, but the mask gave nothing away. She stood there, completely still, as if she had all the time in the world, as if she was waiting for something… waiting for me.

Without warning, Reaper-sama unleashed a barrage of kunai, each one slicing through the rain and grazing my skin. The sharp sting barely registered as adrenaline surged through me. My legs pushed against the mud, my heart pounding with every step as I sprinted toward the house, ignoring the burning sensation that tore through my muscles.

I vaulted up the wall, my hands scrambling against the wet surface as I hauled myself to the rooftop. Gasping for breath, I pulled myself over the edge and froze.

There, leaning against the railing, was my mother. Her long red hair, usually so vibrant, was soaked and clinging to her body. She shivered, the cold rain pricking at her pale skin, making her look smaller and more fragile than I ever remembered. Her azure eyes, the ones that used to light up any room, were dulled and tired, staring out at the storm that seemed to mirror the chaos in my chest.

"M-Mom?" I choked out, my voice barely a whisper, the rain drowning out everything else.

She didn't respond, her body swaying slightly as the wind whipped around us. I took a shaky step forward, my heart pounding harder now, not from the fight, but from the overwhelming fear that something was wrong, terribly wrong.

"Mom!" I called out louder, but she didn't even flinch.

"Y/N my love!" she called out, "That woman... your father has asked her to train you!"

Panic surged through my veins as I scrambled to my feet, the cold concrete tearing at my skin."Mom, get inside! That lady, she'll hurt you!" I shrieked as my feet scrambled to get to her side, tripping along the way.

But my legs felt like lead, and the ground beneath me was unforgiving, throwing me down again. The world seemed to move in slow motion, each second dragging on as I fought to stand. My cheek stung, but the pain was distant compared to the terror coursing through me.

I looked up, and my heart stopped.

Reaper-sama was already there, standing behind my mother, her white mask gleaming ominously in the rain. She held a kunai to my mother's throat, the blade pressed too close for comfort. My breath hitched as dread took hold of me.

"Y/N don't worry! Father wants me to help you train," Mom shouted as she watched me run towards her panicked.

Reaper-sama chuckled darkly, her grip tightening on the kunai. "Now then, Y/N," she said, her voice cold and mocking, "Use your blood manipulation... and save your mother."

I froze. Blood manipulation? The words echoed in my mind, foreign and terrifying. I didn't even know how to begin. My hands trembled as I stared at them, the rain washing away the blood that had been drawn by the kunai earlier. I have never consciously used my blood manipulation before. In the Academy, I never realised that my cuts and bruises healed over so quickly because of it. Now, I was shoved in a corner with only one escape.

Reaper-sama's grip tightened on the kunai as she stared at me, her white mask reflecting the cold, unrelenting rain. "You're running out of time, Y/N," she whispered, her voice cutting through the storm like a blade. Without warning, she yanked my mother back, then pushed her forward, sending her teetering over the edge of the rooftop.

"NO!" I screamed, my heart lurching in my chest as I watched in horror.

My mother's eyes widened in shock as her arms flailed, searching for something to hold onto, but there was nothing. Time seemed to stop as she tumbled through the air, the rain swallowing her scream. My body acted before my mind could catch up, my feet sprinting toward the edge, my hand reaching out desperately.

The blood that trickled down my arm dripped relentlessly, as if sensing my desperation. Each drop stretched unnaturally, forming a thin, wavering rope that wrapped around my mother's body, just barely holding her in the air. My heart raced, a flicker of hope igniting in my chest.

But before I could even exhale the breath I had been holding, the blood cord burst. It dissolved into the rain, vanishing like smoke in the storm. Helpless, I watched my mother slip from my grasp, falling through the downpour with a sickening finality. Right at my fingertips.

My scream tore through the rain as the impact of her death hit me. The sound of her body hitting the ground below echoed through the empty street, drowning out even the rain. Her eyes pried open. Her mouth desperately tried to cling to air around her to breathe. Arterial blood stained the concrete below, trickling into every crack and crevice in the road.

A pair of arms wrapped around my small figure as I grasped onto Reaper-sama's arms, her words drowned out by my own heartbeat pounding in my ears. I wanted to pull away, to scream, but my body felt heavy and numb. Her voice was soothing, too calm for what had just happened.

"Come with me, Y/N," she murmured, her tone almost hypnotic. "You'll be stronger, you'll never have to feel this helpless again. I'll teach you to control your blood, to save those you love."

My eyes were still fixated on the spot where my mother had fallen, her lifeless body lying far below. The rain continued to pour, relentless, washing away the blood that had failed to save her. My breath hitched, my vision blurring between tears and rain.

"Come," Reaper-sama said, her voice commanding yet gentle. And despite every instinct telling me to run, I found myself nodding.

I jolted awake, my heart racing, and sweat clinging to my forehead. The remnants of the nightmare clung to my mind like a dense fog. My hands trembled as I sat up, cracking my knuckles.

That nightmare. I hadn't dreamt of that day in months. But tonight, it returned with a vengeance, as vivid as ever. My pulse throbbed in my ears, and I wiped the sweat from my brow, trying to steady my breath.

'Please forgive me, Mother' I pleaded as I gazed up at the night sky.

"Can't sleep?" Kushina asked, rubbing her eyes as she slowly sat up from her sleeping bag.

"Sorry for waking you up," I whispered as a pink twinge of embarrassment dusted my cheeks.

"You were cracking your knuckles so much I was worried you might start breaking your fingers, you know. Is it a nervous habit?"

"I guess so," I muttered sheepishly, twirling a strand of hair in between my fingers.

"Come here," she whispered, opening her sleeping bag, patting the empty space next to her. Hesitant, I stared at her quizzically, confused at her foreign gesture. Usually, when my mind swallows me from the inside out, I do what Sumire always did with me; play with my hair.

I shuffled towards her bag, slipping and stepping over the broken twigs and bark around the campfire as I laid next to her on the bag. "Your hair has gotten longer since you've arrived in Konoha, you know," she whispered, tucking a loose strand behind my ear.

"Wait," Kushina muttered, pulling out a hair clip from her hair as she clipped my loose strand, "Sleep tight, Y/N."

The soft strokes of her hand against the back of my head slowly lulled me to sleep as I laid in her arms, swallowing the scent of her warmth, the cracking and the crackles of the fire gradually dying down into the early hours of the morning.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Love is a curse.

Anyways, I am on exam leave (again) which means I have to channel out the demons inside of me which scream to write, write and write. I can't wait for this academic year to be over. I don't know why 17 year old me thought I wouldn't be academically challenged by choosing an academically challenging degree (lets be honest all degrees are challenging). I have said the word challenging too much.

But we're getting there! We're hitting plot arc no 1. Thank you for all your support so far! It means so much to me and little me who never thought she'd gather up the confidence to post her little drabbles and thoughts.

Love, Suri

[luv-kakashi]

He will warm up to you eventually.

[luv-kakashi]

hello my lovies!

I miss writing so much. I miss Shisui and the joys of writing One of Us is Dead.

I was re-reading my chapters I’ve published so far (and some drafts I can’t wait to publish) and was thinking, I low-key hate the fact that it’s a Y/N story.

Initially, I wanted it to be like oh just insert whatever your OC name is and enjoy but is it dumb? Should I change all the y/n to a character name? I don’t know if I should put a character name for y/n because as author (may as well be part time since it’s been months since I uploaded) I have a specific vision for who the character is. Or am I deeping things too much?

please vote and i thank you with a very cute kirby

love,

suri

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter sixteen - council of sisters

chapter fifteen | chapter seventeen

These past few days have been insufferable. Tormented by my thoughts, I've been pacing up and down my room, trying to piece together every rational thought in a futile attempt to solve my... ailment. It's like my mind has betrayed me, spinning in endless circles.

My level of anxiety: through the roof. My heart rate: someone get me some drugs, it's off the charts. My ability to generate a coherent thought: gone with the wind.

Which is exactly how I've ended up here, sat in the cramped booth of Yakiniku Q, with Anko by my side, and Kurenai and Rin seated opposite me, ready to consult this so-called "Council of Sisters" (as Anko so nicely put it).

"So," Kurenai began, leaning forward with her usual composed behaviour, "What's been troubling you?"

I hesitated, staring at the sizzling meat on the grill, feeling the heat from the barbeque and the weight of their eyes on me. "I think you guys did something to me," I admitted quietly, fiddling with the edge of my chopsticks.

Anko snorted, clearly amused. "Did something to you? Like what, brainwashed you into watching sexy espionage?"

Kurenai gave her a look. "Anko, let her finish."

I sighed, trying to gather my thoughts. "Ever since that sleepover, I haven't been able to think straight. My mind just... keeps going back to him."

"Ohhh," Rin chimed in, the soft sound of understanding in her voice. "Him."

I groaned, sinking lower into the booth. "I don't know what it was, but ever since then, everything he does... it's like I can't breathe properly. It's like something clicked in my brain and now it won't shut off."

I felt my cheeks warm as I avoided eye contact, focusing on the barbeque. "It's just... I can't stop thinking about him. And it's driving me insane. One minute, everything's normal, and the next, he's in my head and I'm questioning everything. And I think he knows. He's always so calm and he knows just the right things to say and just says it with no problem whatsoever!"

Anko raised an eyebrow. "So you're saying he's using his Sharingan on you? That sneaky bastard!"

"Do you think Shisui's Sharingan can read my mind?!" I asked in shock as my face dropped.

All three of them watched as panic drowned my face and laughed at my exasperation.

"No, you silly!" Rin comforted as she filled my glass with some lemonade, "Also no one said Shisui's name."

"But you did!" I pointed at Anko accusingly, feeling the heat on my cheeks intensify. "You totally said his name!"

Anko smirked, crossing her arms. "Oh, so Shisui is the one you can't stop thinking about, huh?"

I buried my face in my hands, letting out a groan of frustration. "Ugh, you guys are impossible!"

Kurenai laughed softly, reaching over to pat my arm. "It's okay, Y/N. We're just teasing you. But it's sweet, you know? The way you light up when you talk about him."

"I don't light up!" I protested, peeking through my fingers. "I mean, it's just... Shisui is... he's just..."

"Yup, totally just a teammate," Rin said with a playful roll of her eyes. "You just keep telling yourself that."

I groaned, shaking my head. "It's like he just knows. Every time I feel myself getting flustered, he looks at me like he's waiting for me to say something. And then he smiles—that stupid smile—and I just... I lose it. My thoughts go boom boom and I just can't think."

Anko leaned back with a prideful, shit-eating grin. "So, the sleepover triggered something in you, huh? Must've been the pillow talk, my work here is done."

Rin chuckled softly. "Maybe he might be feeling the same way about you."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "That's the problem. What if I'm reading too much into it? What if he's just being... nice?"

Anko snorted, flipping a piece of meat on the grill. "Nice? Girl, no guy looks at you like that and is just being nice. Trust me, he's into you."

"But what if he just sees me as someone he's responsible for? He probably does all that because he sometimes leads our missions and, well, because he's my superior."

Anko raised an eyebrow and gave me a look that clearly said she wasn't buying it. "Oh, please," she scoffed. "That man is way too attentive for it to just be about 'responsibility.'"

Kurenai nodded in agreement, a calm smile on her face. "Y/N, I understand why you'd think that. Shisui is a natural leader, but there's a difference between being a good teammate and... well, you know, giving you butterflies, carrying you all the way here from the Land of Frost, going out of his way to hear your opinions on how a mission should be done and stuff."

I bit my lip, feeling a wave of uncertainty wash over me. "But what if it's all in my head? I don't want to make a fool of myself and ruin everything. What if he really just sees me as someone to protect?"

Anko laughed, flipping another piece of meat. "Girl, the only fool you're gonna make of yourself is by not realizing how head over heels he is for you. Superior, my ass. That Uchiha is as subtle as a fireball jutsu in a rainstorm. You've seen his body flicker jutsu right? Almost every shinobi in the 5 great nations knows about it."

"Seen it and felt it first hand," I confessed as I stuffed my mouth with a piece of barbequed meat, hoping that swallowing the meat would somehow get rid of these thoughts.

"What do you mean you felt it first hand?" Rin asked, her quizzical eyes focusing on me.

"We had to retrieve a stolen scroll during our last mission, and to make sure that we wouldn't have it stolen again, I sealed it inside of me using a specific fūinjutsu from my clan. Only catch was that I had to body flicker with him," I muttered as the blush that already painted my cheeks deepened at the memory.

The feel of his body so close to mine, his hot breath on my neck as he forced me to meet his gaze... the memory is etched so clearly in my mind sending electrifying signals down my body.

Rin softly chuckled before breaking out into a giggle. "So you two got all up in each other's personal space? Say, did he wrap an arm around you? Around your waist? Did he hold you tight and whi-"

Rin's delusional monologue was soon interrupted by loud and harsh wails from my side as we watched Anko burst into tears.

"Oh goodness Anko are you okay? Did you burn yourself?" Kurenai asked as she frantically examined Anko.

"You're telling me that stupid, pervy wervy Uchiha managed to fondle you before I could," Anko cried, snot and tears leaking from every pore on her face, "I'm so heartbroken."

"Anko!" Kurenai and Rin shouted simultaneously as they threw tissues at Anko's face.

Rin offered me a gentle smile. "Sounds like he wasn't being just nice to you. I think he might be into you. Imagine if Kakashi did that to me," Rin giggled, blushing at the thought of Kakashi holding her close to him.

Kurenai leaned in, her red eyes soft with understanding. "Maybe he's waiting for you to make the first move. Shisui is confident, but he's also cautious and calculating, especially with something like this."

Anko continued to cry as tears streamed down her face. "Oh, come on. What's the worst that could happen? You confess, he confesses, and boom—you're the power couple of Konoha. Easy. And I am left all abandoned, walking the streets of Konoha like a spinster all because you left me for a man with a dick... tell me is that all I need to win you over?"

"Anko! You are a whole different problem," Rin chuckled as we watched Kurenai walk over to our side of the booth, with a pair of chopsticks in hand.

Anko's eyes widened in surprise as Kurenai silenced her with a few pieces of beef. She chewed dramatically, waving her hands around in mock protest, but the rest of us burst into laughter.

Rin shook her head, still chuckling as she leaned back against the booth. "Sometimes, I wonder how we've survived all these years with you, Anko."

Kurenai sat back down, a sly smile tugging at her lips. "Well, at least now there's some peace. But seriously, Y/N, what Anko said—minus the dramatics—isn't completely wrong. You'll never know unless you take a step forward."

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their words. "It's just... complicated, you know? What if I ruin everything by telling him?"

Rin tilted her head, her soft gaze locking with mine. "But what if you don't? What if, by holding back, you miss out on something beautiful?"

Anko finally swallowed the piece of beef and, with her mouth finally free, leaned forward. "Exactly! And even if he doesn't feel the same, my door and legs are always open for you!"

"Right, that's it. Next meeting for the council of sisters will be a vote to kick Anko out the group!" Kurenai stated dead-panned as she ignored Anko's protests.

"You guys could never replace me! I'm one of a kind," she argued as she turned her cheek to stare out the window.

"I mean a filing cabinet would be less vulgar and perhaps even more useful than you," I retorted having had enough with my thoughts and my stupid feelings about stupid Uchiha and the stupid butterflies he gives me.

"I agree, we'd even get a peace of mind," Rin chuckled.

"Just you wait until one day, one of you gets your heart broken by some man who crawled his way onto earth and realise that there's no one there to comfort you but a stupid filing cabinet who can't even give you sad breakup sex!" Anko argued as she sunk into her seat, pouting as she watched the three of us laugh at her dramatic flair.

The weight of my feelings hung in the air as the laughter, and suddenly, the laughter from earlier felt distant and hollow. I couldn't bare to meet any of their gazes, so I stared at the table, twisting my fingers as the realisation dawned upon me.

I'm an imposter. They don't know the real me. Shisui doesn't know the real me. He has fallen for lie.

"Anyways! Enough about me and my warring love problems." I said, bringing myself out of my thoughts. Anko, Kurenai, and Rin exchanged glances, their expressions growing serious as the mood around me shifted. I could feel it—something unspoken hung in the air between them, and it set off alarm bells in my head.

"What is it?" I asked, my voice tinged with unease. "Why are you all looking at me like that?"

Kurenai was the first to speak, her tone gentle but firm. "We've known you long enough to see when something's really bothering you, Y/N. And it's not just about Shisui, is it?"

Anko leaned in, her usual playful demeanor absent. "Yeah, you've been off lately. I mean, you're always moody, but this is different. What's going on? Spill."

I hesitated, the walls I had so carefully built threatening to crumble under their concerned gazes. How could I tell them? How could I let them in on the truth—the secret that could destroy everything?

Rin, who had been quiet until now, placed a comforting hand on mine. "Y/N, we're here for you. No matter what it is."

My heart twisted, torn between the need to protect them from the truth and the overwhelming urge to confide in someone, anyone, about the weight I carried. But how could I explain the real reason behind my sleepless nights and anxious thoughts? How could I tell them that I was a spy in their midst, here to betray Kushina sensei and everything Konoha stood for?

I swallowed hard, forcing a chuckle in a weak attempt to lighten the mood again. "It's really nothing, you guys. Just... overthinking stuff. You know me."

I slipped a piece of barbequed meat in my mouth, chewing on it agonisingly slowly as I washed it down with my drink hoping that the conversation would move on from me.

"Anko, this is your redeeming moment. Tell me everything about Rin and Kurenai's love lives." I retorted as I glanced over at Anko. I longingly gazed at her and crossing my arms in the process, giving her a good view my best 'ass'n'tits', just how she taught me.

Anko burst into laughter, nearly choking on her drink as she caught sight of my exaggerated pose. "Oh, Kami, Y/N, you're really going for it, huh?" She wiped away a tear, her signature grin spreading across her face.

"Well, you taught me how to use my assets," I quipped back, batting my lashes as I struck another ridiculous pose. "Now spill the tea, Anko. Rin and Kurenai have been dodging my questions for weeks!"

Rin and Kurenai both rolled their eyes, but I could see the faint blush rising in their cheeks.

Anko leaned in dramatically, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Oh, you have no idea, Y/N. These two? A mess. But it's juicy." She shot a mischievous look at Rin and Kurenai, who were both staring daggers at her.

"Anko, don't you dare—" Kurenai started, but Anko cut her off with a wave of her hand.

"Too late, Kurenai! Y/N has spoken, and I must deliver the goods!" Anko smirked. She pointed her chopsticks at Rin. "This girl over here has been crushing on Kakashi for years! She thinks that by giving him a first-aid box is equal to confessing her love for him. News flash! It isn't! You must spell it out in the air!"

"And Kurenai," Anko continued, ignoring Kurenai's glare, "has a certain someone who keeps showing up during her training sessions, trying to impress her with his fancy Ninjutsu moves. I swear, it's like watching a peacock strut. But you know what, at least her man is spelling it out in the air for her. Asuma makes it so obvious that he's into you," Anko said as she finally took a breath from her monologing.

Kurenai continued to stare daggers at Anko as the blush deepened across her cheeks.

"See, it's not so fun when its your love life that gets thrown onto the table," I scoffed as I teasingly mocked Kurenai.

"Ha ha," Kurenai mocked back. She quickly downed her drink before refilling her cup and downing the second. "I too have something that has been bothering for some time now... Asuma asked me out on a date."

Anko nearly spat out her drink in shock, her eyes widening as she looked between Kurenai and the rest of us. "Asuma Sarutobi, the son of the Third Hokage, finally asked you out on a date?!" she exclaimed dramatically.

Kurenai gave a sheepish nod, her face turning a deep shade of red. "Yes, that Asuma," she muttered, clearly flustered by the attention.

Rin leaned in, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "And what did you say?" she asked, practically on the edge of her seat.

Kurenai sighed, rubbing her temples. "I... haven't given him an answer yet. I wasn't expecting him to ask me out. We've been friends for so long, and now I don't know how to feel about it."

Anko smirked, leaning back in her seat. "Well, well, well. Looks like someone's about to level up from friendship to romance. This is big news, Kurenai. You can't just leave us hanging like that!"

I leaned forward, resting my chin on my hands. "So, are you going to say yes?"

Kurenai's eyes flicked from me to Rin, her internal conflict clear on her face. "That's the thing. I don't want to ruin the friendship we have. But at the same time... maybe it could be something more. It's just—what if it changes everything?"

Anko snorted. "Oh, please. It's Asuma! He's already head over heels for you. You'd be crazy not to give it a shot. Life's too short to be tiptoeing around this stuff."

Rin nodded thoughtfully. "Anko's right. You should do what feels right for you. But... if there's a small part of you that wants more with him, it's worth exploring. You'll never know unless you try."

Kurenai smiled softly, her resolve seemingly strengthening. "I guess you're right. I'll give it some more thought... but I think I'll say yes."

We all cheered, raising our drinks to Kurenai. "To Kurenai and Asuma!" Anko declared, her voice booming in the restaurant as we clinked glasses.

Late at night, when the village of Konoha was still and quiet, I found myself wide awake, torn between the warring thoughts that refused to leave me in peace. Every breath felt like a betrayal, every step a reminder that I didn't belong here.

I was an imposter.

Kushina sensei, the woman who took me in, who treated me like family, trusted me with her life and the lives of our teammates. And yet, I carried a dark secret that I could never share—the masked man's orders, the mission that had brought me here in the first place. I was in Konoha for one purpose: to betray her. To betray them all.

The weight of that knowledge sat heavy in my chest, suffocating me at times.

How could I continue to pretend that I was one of them, knowing what I had to do? Knowing that at any moment, everything I'd built here could be destroyed in an instant?

But then there was Shisui.

The thought of him brought both a smile to my lips and a sharp pang of guilt to my heart. He was everything I wasn't—loyal, honorable, brave. And Kami, he made me feel things I didn't think I was capable of feeling. The way his eyes lit up when he smiled, the way he always seemed to know what to say to ease my mind, the warmth of his presence that calmed the chaos inside me, even if just for a moment.

These feelings for Shisui—the warmth, the affection... when the truth was that I wasn't supposed to feel anything at all. I wasn't supposed to care. I wasn't supposed to let myself get this close.

And yet, I had.

Against all my instincts, I had let my guard down, and now I was falling for him.

But how could I ever be with him, knowing what I was hiding? Knowing that at any moment, I might have to turn my back on everything, on him, to fulfill the masked man's twisted desires? I couldn't tell him the truth—it would destroy everything. It would destroy Kushina sensei and Akira too.

Deep down, I know that I have walked into a trap of my own making.

Shisui has fallen for a lie and the longer I stay here, the harder it is to keep up the charade.

The thought of hurting Shisui, of him looking at me with those dark eyes full of betrayal, made my heart twist in ways I didn't think possible. I wanted to believe I could have both—a life with Shisui, a life here with Sumire—but deep down, I knew it was a lie.

I wasn't meant for happiness. I was a pawn in a game much bigger than me, and no matter how much I wanted to fight it, how much I wanted to stay... I couldn't.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.- This chapter is undoubtedly one of my favourite chapters so far! I love the dynamic between Y/N, Rin, Anko and Kurenai. Sorry for the slow update, I'm on exam leave right now and I can't believe a whole semester is over just like that😭.

But all sweet things are never bound to last. It is a mere fleeting distraction from the despair and the morose world around us as Y/N slowly comes to term with her true role of being in Konoha in the first place.

What will she do? How can she save Kushina without sacrificing Sumire?

And as the age old adage reminds us that Blood runs thicker than water, surely the answer is plain and simple.

But what happens when her heart beats for him?

Loving you always, Suri🎀

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter fifteen - suspended

chapter fourteen | chapter sixteen

After what had seemed like an eternity, Team Shisui returned to Konohagakure after having successfully retrieved The Scroll of Seals.

Yet despite the success of the mission, Akira found himself frozen under the poised gaze of the Hokage, the weight of his authority pressed down on him.

Beside him, Kushina sensei's stern gaze thickened the tension in the atmosphere as she incessantly tapped her foot against the wooden panels.

"Akira, did you go against a direct order and engage in battle with the enemy?" the Hokage asked as his voice filled the room.

Akira sighed, barely able to meet the Hokage's gaze, "Yes sir."

Akira swallowed hard, sweat forming at his brow. He could feel Kushina's eyes burning into the side of his head.

"I- I understand that it is my duty to heal and save lives and that I must never fight on the front lines... My decision was rash, and a poorly thought out one," Akira confessed as he bowed deeply before Kushina sensei and the Hokage, "I am deeply sorry, my actions are unforgivable."

Watching Akira confess to his mistakes, stripped of all his bravado churns the cogs and wheels in my brain. 

Compared to Akira, I am scum. 

To admit to a mistake and own up to its repercussions takes a courage that I lack. Looking around the room, I couldn't help but feel torn. The weight of having to betray those who I have forged deep and meaningful bonds with to the masked man weighs heavy on my heart.

Kushina's gaze softened just a fraction as she finally spoke. "Akira, we all make mistakes in the field. The important thing is that you understand your mistake and that you'll never do it again."

Akira refused to raise his head as he continued to bow in front of his superiors, afraid of the judgement that they will pass onto him.

"Akira, raise your head," the Hokage commanded, "Your father would be very disappointed in you right now."

Akira met the Hokage's gaze as he grits his teeth. "The laws of medical ninjutsu emphasise preserving life, supporting platoons and you must never engage in the front lines. For your display of disobedience, you will be suspended for two weeks, effective immediately. Please return your forehead protector."

Akira dragged his feet to the Hokage's desk as he took his forehead protector off, placing it in front of the Hokage, before the Hokage dismissed the team. All four of us shuffled out of the office as we held our breaths, afraid that anything said between us could hang in the air, tilting the scales of justice to a crueller punishment for Akira.

Kushina turned to face Akira, her arms still crossed but her eyes softer than before. "Akira..." she began, her voice laced with disappointment. "I won't lie, I'm upset. You're better than this, and you know it."

Akira kept his eyes down. His shoulders slumped as the gravity of his punishment sunk deeper.

"But," Kushina continued, her tone shifting to something more encouraging, "Owning up to your mistakes is part of being a shinobi. What matters is how you move forward."

She stepped closer as she pulled Akira into a hug. "You're still a part of this team, Akira. Suspension or not, you're one of us. And when the time comes, I expect you to be stronger. Smarter, you know!"

Akira finally lifted his eyes to meet hers as he hugged her back. "Thank you, sensei," he whispered.

"It looks like Team Two has been temporarily suspended," Kushina sighed, "But that doesn't mean you two can slack off, you know!"

Kushina ruffled my hair before ruffling Shisui's. "Keep training you two, The Hokage could send either of you two out on a mission."

"Understood!" we replied in unison, as we watched Kushina leave the three of us to respond to the Hokage's summon for her.

"You heard sensei, let's go train!" Shisui remarked as he led the way to the training grounds.

The walk over to the training ground was stifiling. The silence between the three of us laid thick in the atmosphere. Shisui noticed the way Akira's shoulders slumped as he dragged his feet with each step. I tried to get Akira to talk, but the only response I managed to lure out of him was a barely audible 'Hm'.

Shisui and I shared a silent glance as we were left with no other choice but to confront Akira with the deadliest weapon in our arsenal. The talk no jutsu.

"Bakakira, you're awfully silent..." I jeered as I lightly elbowed Akira's side.

"Don't tell me getting suspended has got you this down in the dumps?" Shisui chuckled.

Akira balled his fist as his nails dug harsh, red crescent shapes into his palms. He refused to look at either of us, fixing his gaze on the warm Konoha sky as the clouds danced off in the distance.

Akira sighed as his fists shook relentlessly. "The Hokage's right... my father must be disappointed in me."

Oh Akira.

Shisui and I shared a solemn look as Akira unravelled his true feelings he had hidden inside for so long.

"My father was the embodiment of medical ninjutsu... his judgement never faltered, and he never thought twice about healing his comrades. And... I just abandoned my position with no real thought behind my actions.

I keep saying I want to be a medic to honour his name so that I might even be worthy of carrying his will of fire..." Akira's voice cracked as he shifted his gaze, refusing to find solace in the skies in fear that his father is judging him in his moment of vulnerability.

"But I carelessly jumped into battle... part of me just couldn't help it. I wanted to protect the both of you," Akira said as he took in a deep breath, "I don't deserve to call myself his son. Dad gave his life protecting his teammates so that they could complete their mission, and I can't even honour his sacrifice and stick to medical ninjutsu laws. I'm pathetic, I don't deser- "

Akira continued to ramble as the guilt of his actions finally broke him, tears threatening to spill over with each second. Shisui slowly approached his dear friend and delivered a cold hard slap to Akira's cheek. The sound of the slap reverberated through the training grounds as Shisui stared at Akira.

déja vu, much? 

"Don't say that about yourself," Shisui muttered, "Your actions show that you are fiercely loyal to those you care about. You want to protect us, and you most certainly have the talent to do so."

I walked over to Akira and placed a hand on his shoulder. "It's okay to make mistakes and to be vulnerable on your path to becoming a medic. You shouldn't let it define who you are."

"She's right, Akira," Shisui said, his eyes softening as he looked at Akira. "And you're wrong. Your father's will of fire lives within you... your medical ninjutsu has come a long way since you started, and you're an exceptionally skilled shinobi."

"I think you're forgetting something," Shisui said as Akira looked at him confusedly, "Medical Ninjutsu Law 104. Only those who have mastered the Strength of Hundred Seals technique are permitted to break the previous 3 laws. I know without a doubt that you can master it."

Akira watched Shisui, listening intently as the realisation dawned upon him.

"Wait... do you really think I can do it?"

"I know you can," Shisui chuckled as he playfully flicked Akira's forehead

"And you better believe that we'll do anything to help you out," I said as I playfully shoved Akira.

"You guys," Akira whispered as tears welled up in his eyes, "Also there was no need for you to slap me like that you piece of shit."

"Excuse me, I had a score to settle with you," Shisui mocked.

Akira looked at him with his mouth wide open in shock. "What do you mean?"

"You know, when I came back to the academy? You know, in Chapter 6 when you thought it would be funny to slap me on the cheek!"

"Oh yeah," Akira muttered. "I know what I need to do," he ushered, "I'll catch up with you two later! Thanks for all your help!"

"You know him so well, Shisui," I whispered, glancing up at him as Akira disappeared into the distance with a newfound determination.

Shisui shrugged, his smile easy and warm. "He's not as hard to figure out as he thinks. Akira's stubborn, but he's got potential. He just needs to believe in himself more."

I nodded, feeling a warmth rise in my chest at how much Shisui cared for our team. "Still, not many would've known exactly what to say to him. You always know how to get through to people."

He turned his head toward me, his expression soft but thoughtful. "Maybe," he said quietly, his voice dropping to that low, familiar tone. "But I think you give me too much credit, Y/N."

I smiled, but my heart skipped a beat. There was something about the way Shisui said my name, how he always seemed to notice the things others missed. "You're too humble for your own good, Uchiha," I teased, nudging him lightly with my elbow.

"How about we get to training, Uzumaki?" Shisui asked as we walked further down into the training ground to a barren area.

"We should train taijutsu. Your sharingan would cheat any genjutsu match and I'm feeling nice, I don't want to utterly embarrass you with my ninjutsu."

Shisui chuckled at my words, his eyes gleaming with delight. "Oh? Feeling confident, are we?" he teased, glancing over at me with that usual smirk that always made my heart race. "I'll remind you that even without the Sharingan, I'm no pushover."

I grinned, shrugging off my flak jacket and tossing it aside, already getting into the zone. "I'd like to see you try. But trust me, Shisui, this is one match where your clan's fancy dojutsu isn't going to save you."

We both squared off in the open field, the air thick with anticipation as neither of us showed any sign of backing down. Shisui stretched his arms over his head, loosing his shoulders, his carefree demeanour only fuelling my determination to bring him down.

"You're gonna regret underestimating me, Uzumaki," he said, stepping forward, ready to engage.

I smirked back, dropping into my fighting stance. "Is that a threat or a promise?"

Without warning, I launched myself forward, my fist aimed directly at his chest. Shisui dodged with ease, his body moving fluidly to the side as he countered with a swift kick to my legs. I blocked it, twisting to strike at him again. The clash of our movements echoed throughout the grounds, each blow met with exact precision and strength.

As the minutes passed, neither of us let up. My strikes were fast, but Shisui's reactions were faster. His Sharingan wasn't activated, but his battle sense was sharp as ever. I caught a glimmer of pride in his eyes, as if he enjoyed the challenge I was giving him.

"This all you got, Y/N?" he taunted as he ducked under another punch and tried to sweep my legs again.

Stupid Uchiha thinking I'm going easy on him.

I ducked under a swift kick, my hands moving to grab Shisui's wrist. With a quick twist, I spun him around, using the momentum to sweep his legs out from under him. Shisui fell backward, his eyes widening slightly as my body moved without thinking.

No thought, no rationale, no logic.

Before he could recover, I straddled him, my knees on either side of his waist, pinning him down with a triumphant grin. My hands planted firmly on his chest as I leaned forward slightly, my breath coming in fast, the thrill of victory coursing through me.

"Got you, Uchiha," I smirked, looking down at him.

Shisui blinked as a faint blush dusted his cheeks. He raised an eyebrow before his usual amused expression painted his face, his chest rising and falling under my palms. "Eh, beginners luck" he chuckled, clearly unbothered by his loss.

He tilted his head back, his eyes locking onto mine, and for a moment, the world around us seemed to quiet down. His lips curled into a soft smile, but there was something else in his gaze—something playful yet unreadable as he laughed at my face.

"You think losing is funny, Uchiha?"

Shisui chuckled beneath me, his grin still wide despite being pinned to the ground. "Oh, I just think it's hilarious how confident you are, Uzumaki," he teased, his voice laced with amusement. His eyes met mine, dark and filled with that familiar playful glint.

I froze, suddenly realizing the position I was in. Oh Kami. I am on top of Shisui. I am sitting on top of Shisui Uchiha.

Heat flooded my cheeks as I quickly averted my gaze, my heart racing faster than it had during our entire sparring session. How did this happen? I scrambled off him as quickly as I could, trying not to seem flustered.

"I– I didn't mean to..." I muttered, clearing my throat, but my words faltered as I looked away, unable to shake the embarrassment.

Shisui sat up, still grinning, and took the hand I offered to pull him up. His grip was firm, and even through my embarrassment, I could feel the warmth of his hand against mine. "Don't worry, Y/N," he said with a wink, "I didn't mind the view."

I nearly choked at his words, pulling my hand away as quickly as possible. "You're impossible!" I sputtered, my heart still racing as I turned away, hoping he didn't notice just how red my face had gotten.

Shisui just laughed, that carefree sound echoing through the training ground. "Maybe, but I'd say you won that one. Nice move."

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Akira rushed to the hospital with his path clearer than ever. He was going to get the strength of hundred seals and there's nothing that could stop him. Well, other than his two week suspension of course. 

Y/N takes Shisui on... in a fight. I'm sure he really appreciated the view. Hehehehe

Sorry for the late upload. Christmas season is around the corner and I've found myself busy with various Christmas festivities. Stay warm and safe during this holiday season. 

Loving you always, 

Suri 

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter fourteen - the byakuya

chapter thirteen | chapter fifteen

The room fell quiet as the last of the staff exited, the sound of Kakashi's soft steps filling the air as he walked in.

"Lord Hokage," Kakashi began as he knelt before The Hokage, "My mission in the Village Hidden by The Grass has provided substantial evidence regarding Kunoichi Thirteen."

"Does this evidence link Kunoichi Thirteen to Y/N Uzumaki, Kakashi?" The Hokage asked as his eyes narrowed, focusing on Kakashi intensely.

Kakashi raised his head and stood up slowly, to report the details of his latest mission. "Unfortunately, I couldn't gather any concrete evidence proving Y/N Uzumaki is Kunoichi Thirteen. However," he added before The Hokage could respond, "I managed to gather intel from the two shinobi who ambushed Team Two,"

The Hokage's brows furrowed, his gaze sharpening. "Go on."

"The kunoichi is named Fayelle, while the taller male is named Cash. Their mission was to capture Kunoichi Thirteen and return her to an organisation named The Byakuya."

The Hokage silently listened to Kakashi's report as he sat back, his expression unreadable. He drummed his fingers on the desk, eyes fixed on Kakashi, but his thoughts raced in his mind.

"The Byakuya... word of The Byakuya has been raised in the Kage Summit before," The Hokage sighed, "They were formed under the commission of the Mizukage."

Kakashi's eyes widened slightly. "The Mizukage? How are they connected?"

The Hokage didn't immediately respond, as he pieced together the fragments of a long-buried memory. "It was during a time of civil unrest in the Hidden Mist. The Mizukage believed in the necessity of a shadow force... much like the anbu system we have here. A covert organisation that could operate outside the boundaries of the village."

Kakashi processed the information in silence, his mind racing to connect the dots. "But if The Byakuya serves as a protective force, then why does the organisation work on a transactional level? I overheard Fayelle and Cash saying that their only duty is to 'complete the job and collect their money'?"

"Somewhere along the line, The Byakuya splintered," The Hokage explained, "Yagura Karatachi, the current Mizukage, and his leadership isolated Kirigakure from the other Great Nations. He's known as a barbaric and violent ruler... leading under a regime, civil unrest and rebel movement culminated within The Byakuya. They stopped serving Kirigakure and began persuing their own agenda."

Kakashi's face hardened as the realisation dawned on him, "The Byakuya... it must be a bounty hunting organisation. That must be what Fayelle and Cash were discussing. They also mentioned that Reaper-sama, who I can only assume to be their leader, has been affected by losing one of her top ninjas, Kunoichi Thirteen."

"Why are they desperate to get her back, Kakashi?" The Hokage asked.

"They mentioned that Kunoichi Thirteen can use blood manipulation, and their leader wants her back because she can kill and leave no trace," Kakashi replied.

The Hokage's eyes narrowed, he inhaled sharply and his expression hardened as Kakashi's words hung in the air. The Hokage leaned back in his chair his eyes scrunching up under the weight of what he just said. Then, with a loud inhale he reached into the stacks of files on his desk, pulling one out with a somber familiarity.

"This," he began, placing a weathered folder on the desk before him, "is Sakumo Hatake's last mission report."

Kakashi stiffened, frozen in place under the thick atmosphere of grief.

The Hokage opened the file, revealing hastily written notes smudged with dirt and bloodstains. "Sakumo's team encountered Kunoichi Thirteen during their mission in the neutral area between us and Kirigakure. They encountered Kiri shinobi and other ninjas in this area. According to his report, her use of blood manipulation was unlike anything they'd ever faced. And when one of his teammates was caught in the crossfire, Sakumo abandoned the mission to save his team."

Kakashi's jaw tightened, his hands curling into fists at his sides. He remained silent, staring past the Hokage, his mind racing through images he had tried to bury.

"Sakumo made the difficult decision to save what remained of his team," The Hokage  continued. "He retreated to ensure their survival, but the consequences of abandoning the mission were severe. He faced dishonor, disgrace—and eventually, his death."

His gaze softened, though his voice remained firm. "It's no coincidence that Kunoichi Thirteen's name resurfaces now, Kakashi. Finding any information linking Y/N Uzumaki to Kunoichi Thirteen is imperative. Those two shinobi wouldn't have attacked her without suspecting Y/N is their target..."

"Kakashi, I want you to keep an eye on Y/N Uzumaki and observe if she uses any blood manipulation techniques around you," The Hokage demanded, "Dismissed."

Cash and Fayelle shuffled through the corridors of The Byakuya praying that their presence would not alert Reaper-sama. The stone-walled corridors squeezed the last atoms of air as Cash and Fayelle exchanged a glance, their eyes nervously meeting—a short prayer of hope that they might make it out alive. Every step they took creaked against the wood floorboards. Each creak tightened the noose that hung around their necks. Each step is another close to death.

Failure within The Byakuya wasn't just a stain on their reputation as bounty hunters. It was a death sentence. Reaper-sama didn't tolerate weakness. Fayelle's heart drummed against her ribs as Cash silently shuffled beside her.

"It's fine, we'll be okay," Fayelle whispered, her voice barely audible.

Cash didn't respond. He swallowed hard as he followed Fayelle into Reaper-sama's office before holding his breath under her presence.

The room drowned in darkness, with the dim glow of a few flickering candles, casting an eerie shadow across the stone-cold walls. The light barely reached the four-quarters of the room, the cold and wet air choking Cash and Fayelle as they stayed frozen in place. In the centre of the room stood a desk, surrounded by a thick black curtain that concealed whatever lay behind it.

Reaper-sama sat behind the curtain, unseen to the shinobi in front of her but her presence was undeniable. The air thickened around Cash and Fayelle as they could feel Reaper-sama's gaze. A predatory focus that chilled them to their bones.

"Failure, again..." The voice was disturbingly calm with a deadly edge as Reaper-sama spat at Cash and Fayelle.

Cash sub-consciously reached his hand out towards Fayelle, his hand suspended in the air before his fingertips faintly brushed Fayelle's.

Reaper-sama tilted her head as she observed the two C-ranked Ninja's before her as she decided their fate. "And you thought you could walk my halls without bringing back my daughter... my princess?"

Fayelle swallowed hard, her throat dry as chalk as her pulse pounded in her ears. Neither of them dared to speak before her.

The room fell into a tense silence as Reaper-sama's words hung in the air, painfully stretching out the last few moments of Cash and Fayelle's death sentence. The cold seeped into their bones as they loomed in the darkness.

"There are no second chances."

Suddenly, the flames of the candles extinguished, plunging the room into pitch-black darkness as a loud thud echoed through the room before a bloodied and bruised man entered Reaper-sama's chamber.

"You called for me?"

"Kakuzu, where is my Y/N?" Reaper-sama asked, her words echoing through the room.

Kakuzu entered as he glanced at the two lifeless bodies lying on top of each other, blood pooling at his feet as it drenched his shoes.

"My my Reaper-sama, you sure do have a penchant for violence," Kakuzu chuckled as he kicked the bodies lying under his feet, "I have no idea where she is."

The candles in the room resumed their flickering, shedding light on the tension between Kakzuku and Reaper-sama.

"You seem to misunderstand your position, Kakuzu," Reaper-sama said vehemently.

"You see, I haven't misunderstood anything," Kakuzu laughed, "You have been losing more and more bounty hunters by the day, their bodies mysteriously disappearing... many heading to Orochimaru's lab and simply never returning. Many having been sentenced to death in your chambers. Yet here you are blinded by the loss of Y/N that you can't even see how crippled we have become."

Reaper-sama's mood turned sour as the gravity of his words smeared a venomous look on her face.

"You bastard, don't you dare tell me how to do my job."

"Haven't you noticed that many of our valuables have been going missing? Or the fact that our ledgers no longer add up? Or the fact that more and more A-ranked bounty hunters have managed to run from your grasp?" Kakuzu scoffed.

"I wouldn't be surprised if you were the culprit selling away all our fortune. Explain why your income increased suddenly last month." Reaper-sama spat.

"You know that I bounty-hunt more than any other shinobi here, don't act so confused you bitch."

Suddenly, a kunai ripped through the curtains as it flew towards Kakuzu as it grazed his earlobe, digging into the stone-cold wall behind him.

"Damn you, you insolent fool! I know you helped my princess escape, and I know that you are stealing from our ledgers and selling off our fortune. And when I find out, I will personally behead you and drink from your skull."

"Oh how scary," Kakuzu mocked, "I'm not worried about a bitch who hides behind a curtain and has us doing her dirty work. Besides, I have five lives to live off now."

Slamming the door of Reaper-sama's chamber, he stormed down the corridor and shoved past the masses of useless shinobi.

Night had settled over the Land of Frost painting the sky in hues of deep blue, the twinkle of the stars keeping Akira, Shisui and I company. The mission had been long and arduous, and the chill in the air nipped at our skin, but the team was in high spirits as we made our way back to Konoha.

Shisui glanced over his shoulder to find me hobbling for balance as I trailed behind him. My energy had been drained from my body and with each glance or turn I made with my head, the world around me spun relentlessly.

I could see Shisui walk towards me as my brain desperately tried to stop my vision from blurring with each step I took.

'C'mon eyes, don't betray me now' I mentally cursed. He reached to my side and noticed the slight tremor in my hands as I struggled for balance.

"That jutsu of yours... I'm never doing it with you again," I joked.

The air around us filled with his breathy giggles as he took my hand in his. "Y/N, you don't have to push yourself any further. I'll carry you back."

My eyes softly met his as his gaze softened.

"I'm fine Shisui, a bit blind and dizzy but it comes and goes, I'm fine, I promise," I said, as I removed my hand from his, determined more than ever to make it back to Konoha

Besides, being carried all the way to Konoha on Shisui's back?! I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought about him more times than I care to admit.

There's something undeniable about the way his compression vest fits him perfectly, accentuating the strong lines of his shoulders and back. The feel of his body moving beneath me, the steady rhythm of his breath, and the warmth that radiates from him—it all sends my heart racing.

Suddenly, I was pulled from my thoughts with a short flick to my forehead.

"No, you're not," Shisui said softly, "Besides, it's my fault that you're dizzy. At least let me make it up to you by getting you home safely."

"Shisui are you sure... I don't want to be a burden." I whispered.

For a moment, his gaze met mine with a warmth that made my heart skip a beat. There was a gentle sincerity in his eyes, but gazing further into his warm, onyx eyes showed something deeper that I couldn't quite put into words.

"Taking care of my team will never be a burden. Besides, it's captains orders," Shisui remarked me as he knelt in front of me so that I could climb on his back.

"Thank you, Shisui," I murmured, feeling a flush creep up my cheeks as I buried my face in his back.

The proximity was intoxicating, and for a fleeting moment, I let myself savor the closeness we shared.

"How's the view from up there?" Shisui chuckled, as his grip around my thighs tightened.

Every shift in his posture and the subtle firmness of his muscles, each slight adjustment he makes to keep me steady, only makes me more aware of how close we are.

The feel of his gentle, steady heartbeat felt electrifying. I couldn't help but steal glances at him – the way his curls fell slightly forward as he moved, or the way his jaw tightened with concentration.

"Meh, I've seen better," I said as I rolled my eyes.

I leaned towards him slightly, my head resting against his as my voice dropped to a softer tone, whispering in his ear, "Just promise me you won't drop me, okay?"

I could see the faint blush on his cheeks, and it made me smile. "No promises Uzumaki," Shisui chuckled, the sound vibrating against my back as he adjusted his grip.

I smiled, feeling a little more at ease despite the lingering butterflies in my stomach.

Akira threw his hands up in mock despair as he groaned loudly, "Seriously we're on a mission here, you two make me sick."

I couldn't help but smirk, leaning my head further against Shisui's, "Maybe we should leave Akira behind. He seems a little bitter."

Shisui snickered. "You're so right, that sounds perfect!"

Akira rolled his eyes as we walked off in the distance. "You guys may as well leave me behind. I'm going to have all my shinobi rights revoked from me as soon as we hit Konoha... and I'll spend the rest of my days as a penniless vagabond, begging for money as the rest of Konoha turns their cheek."

Shisui stopped in his track as we shared a silent smirk at Akira's dramatic monologue.

"That's quite the imagination you've got there," I teased as I watched Shisui stifle a laugh.

Shisui grinned, shaking his head, "Don't worry Akira, we'll toss a few coins your way when we see you begging by the gates."

Akira groaned again, picking up his pace to walk alongside us. "I should have never introduced you to Y/N, Shisui. You were never this mean to me before..." Akira rambled as he sighed in defeat.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

'What scum,' Kakashi thinks to himself after delivering his mission report to the Hokage.

His father, the great Sakumo Hatake, the white fang of the leaf, consumed with the guilt of shaming his village, killed himself all because of her.

If she proved to be Kunoichi Thirteen, he would never forgive her.

And across the Land of Fire, The Reaper suffers a massive loss. Yet, she's blinded from it all. All she wants is her sweet daughter. Her Y/N Uzumaki.

But y'all, Shisui giving us a ride?! No, not that type of ride (not yet atleast 😏) back to the village? He's so hot and so humble and confident I need him for real.

Hope you enjoyed this one, Suri

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter thirteen - a lost scroll

chapter twelve | chapter fourteen

The air is crisp and cool, with a gentle breeze rustling through the leaves as a young, grey-haired shinobi makes his way to the Village Hidden by The Grass.

Y/N Uzumaki is a complete enigma. A kunoichi estranged from her family, a family now reduced to ashes from the gnawing black flames which engulfed the Village Hidden by The Rivers. A kunoichi who is known as Kunoichi Thirteen and is referred to as 'princess' by rogue shinobi.

Just who were these rogue shinobi? Why were they after Y/N? Just who is she?

Kakashi's thoughts churned with these questions as he jumped through the trees, determined to uncover the secrets behind the mystery of Y/N Uzumaki.

The crisp cool air of Konoha drowned out as Kakashi crossed the northern border into the Village Hidden by The Grass. He glances up at the murky grey clouds above him. The sun refused to show its head as the rain plunged down. Each raindrop hit his cheek reminding him of the events at Kannabi bridge as Kakashi's left eye started to ache at the memory of Obito's body crushed under the boulder.

Kakashi sighed as the rain continued to pour, drenching his appearance. He shoved his face into a bustling crowd on a busy road. Despite the relentless rain, civilians still went about their days, occupying market stands and food stalls. His hood covered half his gaze. But Kakashi didn't need much of his vision to realise that he wasn't going to learn much about Kunoichi Thirteen from this crowd. Kakashi slipped into a small, secluded tea shop, taking a seat in the corner as he planned out how he was going to uncover Y/N Uzumaki's past.

His thoughts were interrupted by the twinkle of the bell as the door to the quaint tea shop opened.

"Welcome to Kettle and Kunai!" a waitress greeted with a bright smile as she approached the couple who walked in, "How can I help you?"

"A table for two," the taller man said as he smiled back at the waitress, but Kakashi couldn't help but notice the foul expression of the woman standing beside him as she stomped towards their table behind Kakashi's.

"Cash do you understand how much trouble we're gonna be in?" the shorter woman spat in a fury.

"Calm down Fayelle, it's not that big of a problem," the man said, rolling his eyes at his partner.

"Don't you roll your eyes at me Cash," Fayelle retorted, "We had one job and that was to find Kunoichi Thirteen, which by the way we failed at and here you are stuffing your fat face with dango."

"We tried to find her, but she didn't have her ID... besides what does my face have to do with this."

"We're supposed to be back at headquarters by now, giving our report to Reaper-sama. She's going to kill us for failing at our mission."

"Fayelle you're so dramatic," Cash sighed as he licked his sticky fingers, "Besides, isn't Kunoichi Thirteen an A-ranked ninja? Capturing an A-ranked shinobi is far beyond our pay, so it will be fine."

"Reaper-sama doesn't care about our pay. What she wants is the princess," Fayelle said, as she crossed her arms, "She would've shown us some mercy if we'd returned by now. But I should have realised that you have a stomach for brains, you fucking idiot."

"Can't work on an empty stomach, Fayelle. You should know that already," Cash said, as he ate away his third plate of dangos, "Must you always look so angry, lighten up will ya?"

"Lighten up? Lighten up?!" Fayelle screamed, "Do you not understand how important this mission is?"

"No, what's the deal with Kunoichi Thirteen?" Cash asked through his teeth, his cheeks puffed full to the brim with dangos, spit flying out in the process.

"I hope you choke on your dangos," Fayelle spat.

Kakashi couldn't help but overhear the couple behind him bicker about Kunoichi Thirteen. He stared hard at the cup of green tea in front of him. His intel told him that the taller of the two shinobi was called Cash, which must be the same man sitting behind him now. 

"Kunoichi Thirteen, she's Reaper-sama's prized possession. They say that Reaper-sama personally scouted out Kunoichi Thirteen to join The Byakuya. She was automatically enrolled as an A-rank ninja when she registered with us," Fayelle muttered, "I have yet to see it myself, but her blood manipulation makes her untouchable and she can virtually kill and leave no trace... she's Reaper-sama's best weapon in her arsenal."

Kakashi's grip tightened around the delicate ceramic cup, the faint clink barely audible beneath the din of the tea shop. His heart beat a little faster as he processed Fayelle's words. Blood manipulation... kill with no trace. The term Kunoichi Thirteen took on a whole new weight.

If this Kunoichi Thirteen was perhaps Y/N Uzumaki, then Kakashi was dealing with more than just a rogue shinobi. This was someone who could potentially threaten the peace of Konoha. Not to mention, just what was The Byakuya?

He shifted in his seat slightly, ensuring his presence remained unnoticed as the couple continued their conversation.

"So, she wants her back because she's really strong?" Cash asked before downing his green tea.

"Reaper-sama and The Byakuya as an organisation has taken a hit since Kunoichi Thirteen has run away," Fayelle sighed, "Anyways all we can do is do the job and collect our money."

Kakashi's mind raced, piecing together the implications. If Kunoichi Thirteen was on the run, it was for a reason, and it meant she was vulnerable—something Reaper-sama could not afford. And if she truly possessed the abilities they described, she was not just a threat to the Byakuya; she was a danger to anyone who crossed her path.

Kakashi's thoughts sharpened. There must be a link between Kunoichi Thirteen and Y/N Uzumaki.

He stood up slowly, leaving a few coins on the table, his mind made up. He will discover Y/N Uzumaki's identity as he made his way back to the village.

The Third Shinobi War rages on ferociously. The borders of Konohagakure are densely packed with jounin and chunin deployed to the front lines. Amid this chaos, many of the genin teams have been stripped of their jounin captains as they conduct their ranked missions.

This is the first, high-ranked mission that we have been assigned to without Kushina sensei. But regardless, I don't doubt that this mission will go smoothly under the command of Shisui. His reputation as a formidable shinobi and his sharp tactical mind had earned all our respect.

Our mission required us to retrieve a stolen artefact from the Land of Frost, a Land many many miles away from Konohagakure. I look over my shoulder only to find Akira fighting a losing battle as the last threads of his patience wear thin. He pulls out a kunai, gripping its handle so tight his fist starts to shake.

"Akira, calm down. You'll only get yourself hurt," I said as I hurried over to Akira.

Shisui, who had been utterly engrossed in the mission plans with his head buried in a scroll finally looks up to catch the commotion before him.

"What's going on?" Shisui asked, his voice steady and authoritative. The urgency in his tone left no room for hesitation.

Akira clenched his jaw as he glanced at Shisui, "On Kami, I will just send myself to the grave right now."

"Akira, drop the kunai and let's just use our heads," Shisui said as he slowly approached Akira.

"Why do have to sleep in stupid tents every time we are on a mission!" Akira yelled as he yanked the tangled knots in his sleeping bag, frustration slowly eating away at his determination.

"Akira, you know it's part of the mission, and besides we don't have a choice in the matter," Shisui chuckled as he watched Akira fight himself over his sleeping bag.

"Maybe if you hadn't decided to roll around so much in your sleep, you wouldn't be stuck," I teased, stifling a chuckle at the scene before me.

Akira shot me a glare as he pointed his kunai towards me. "Oh, sorry I'll try sleeping like a statue next time," he mocked.

"Now, now let's get back to the matter at hand," Shisui said, gathering our attention in the process, "A week ago, an Anbu team were transporting The Scroll of Seals, which contains the jutsus for various forbidden Fūinjutsus passed down from the First Hokage. A group of men from the Land of Frost ambushed the team, stealing the scroll in the process... the Anbu team tailed them and found that The Scroll of Seals is being stored in a heavily guarded fortress."

"So, we need to plan how we will get into the fortress."

I listen intently but remain silent as I gather my thoughts. In 20km, we will be well past the border of the Land of Frost. Since we set up camp yesterday, I noticed the ground is uneven and jagged with rocks. We walked over sharp cliffs and steep inclines with the narrowest of ledges which seemed more prominent across the western side of the land.

"Hey Shisui," I muttered quietly as his gentle gaze settled on mine, his dark eyes filled with warmth and curiosity. His curly locks tilted slightly to the side as he smiled, an effortless smile that disarmed all my defences.

"Yeah?" he replied, his tone soft.

'Shit... don't look at me like that, Uchiha,' I cursed inwardly as I felt the heat rise to my cheeks.

My heart skipped a beat, suddenly feeling shy under his gaze. Why do I feel like this? I've talked with Shisui and fought alongside him before, but he has never made me feel like this.

'Don't you find his friendly nature charming? As well as the fact that he's a strong shinobi'

Ugh. Curse you Kurenai, Rin and Anko

"We should approach and infiltrate from the west side of the fortress. The guards will be less vigilant since the terrain has been harsh and rough since we crossed the border into the Land of Frost... Shisui, do we know anything about these men who have stolen the scroll? Are they shinobi?" I said, steady and clear.

Shisui's eyes widened ever so slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his face as I laid out my plan to infiltrate the fortress. His lips curved into a faint smile, a mixture of admiration and curiosity playing across his features. He leaned in, listening intently, his dark onyx eyes never leaving mine.

"From what the Anbu managed to gather, they're not shinobi, and they don't use any traditional jutsu methods. However, the Anbu couldn't investigate further, as the fortress's perimeter is laced with traps."

"Then we'll need someone to find out the exact position of the traps so that we can either avoid them," I pondered, "Diffusing them may expose our presence to them... Shisui, do you think your sharingan can detect the traps?"

"As long as chakra flows through them, it should be no problem."

"I guess we'll just have to dodge them as best as we can," I said with an exasperated chuckle.

"The scroll... It'll be heavily guarded, we need to figure out how to get the scroll without engaging with the enemy," Shisui explained, "I could flicker to the scroll and grab it without the enemy seeing. But I don't want the scroll to slip through our hands again. I need it to be indefinitely in our hands."

As the idea sparked in my mind, my heart raced. I could use my blood manipulation to seal the scroll, preventing it from falling into the wrong hands. It was a perfect solution, but there was a catch- Akira and Shisui would find out about my technique.

I glanced at Shisui, who was already watching me with those deep, curious eyes, waiting for my next move.

He trusted me, and that trust was something I didn't want to break. But this mission was too important. I had no choice.

"I have a way to seal the scroll," I said quietly, my voice steady despite the unease I felt. "It's... it's a Fūinjutsu passed down in my clan. I inscribe the symbols for the jutsu using my blood and chakra on my body, and it'll store the scroll in that body part. Only I can release the jutsu."

I explained as I lied about the details, Shisui nodded slowly, the wheels in his mind already turning as he found himself intrigued by my confidence.

"So, for your plan to work, I'd have to flicker you with me," he said, his voice low and appreciative, "You really thought this through, didn't you?"

He crossed his arms, considering the risks. "It's bold, but..." he trailed off, a playful smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "I like it. It just might work."

Shisui's words fired a blush across my cheeks as I gently smiled at him, tucking a strand of my red hair behind my ear.

"Sorry to interrupt whatever's going on here, but I didn't sign up to be a third wheel," Akira exclaimed as he realised he wasn't assigned to anything.

"Shut it, Akira," Shisui barked, his cheeks painted a faint pink as he delivered a swift smack to the back of Akira's head. "You're on lookout duty. Use your earpiece to tell us if the coast is clear for our escape. Understood?"

"Yes, yes captain," Akira replied.

After packing all our belongings, we made our way towards the fortress quietly as to not draw attention to ourselves. Akira jumped up into a tree which gave him a clear view of the western side of the fortress. And just as I had predicted, nobody had been stationed in that area, allowing Shisui and I to slip through the entrance unseen.

The air inside the fortress was cold and pricked at my skin like a sharp needle. Shisui naturally took the lead, as he walked in front of me guiding us both through the dark, narrow corridors. He looked over his shoulder to find me panicked as I tried to navigate through the halls, holding the wet and grimy walls only to grimace at its feeling.

"Hey, you okay?" Shisui whispered as I stared at his Sharingan, captivated by its glow. The tomoe pattern slowly spun, casting a dim glow around us. I had seen his Sharingan countless times before- back in the academy when we first met, and on every mission we have been on since. But in this moment, it felt different... had his Sharingan always looked this pretty?

"Pretty..." I muttered, unable to tear my gaze away from him. Shit, why did I just say that? I quickly covered my mouth with one hand, realizing the weight of my words as my cheeks flushed with embarrassment hoping that he didn't hear me.

Shisui chuckled softly as he intertwined his fingers with my other hand, his rough calloused hand enveloped mine entirely as he drew soft circles across my knuckles. The warmth of his touch... felt electric, short wiring my thoughts as they screamed his name.

"There are a few traps up ahead, I don't want you to get caught up," Shisui reassured as he smiled.

We navigated through the traps down the corridor, each step careful, quiet and deliberate. The corridor opened to a landing, revealing the view of the floor beneath us. We spotted the scroll guarded by four men holding long spears, each with their backs to the scroll as they faced the four entrances into the room. Their armour flickered under the natural light which seeped into the room from the window above them.

Shisui and I backed up out of sight of the four men and shared a silent nod, a signal we agreed upon before we entered the fortress. I bit down on my thumb, drawing out my  blood and quickly began drawing the symbols for the sealing jutsu on my palm.

I activated my blood manipulation, channelling my chakra into the symbols imprinted on my thumb.

"It's ready," I whispered to Shisui as he nodded in response.

Shisui stepped closer, his body mere inches from my back and gently wrapped an arm around my waist. His other hand traced the side of my cheek as he lifted my face to meet his gaze.

His Sharingan eyes, they can see everything, even the blush which betrays my hidden feelings.

He leans down, his face inches away from my neck, his breath warm against my ear. "Hold on tight," he whispered.

I gripped the fabric of his flak jacket as he flickered us both towards the scroll. The world around us blurred as we appeared in front of the scroll in an instant. My hand reached out as my fingertips brushed against the ancient paper scroll, causing the symbols inscribed on my hand to swirl and take shape, sealing away the scroll in my palm.

Shisui's hold on my waist tightened as we flickered back to the corridor. He remained close to me as he held my hand before running down the corridor back to the entrance we initially slipped in through.

Behind us, the voices of the four men erupted in the air as they realised the scroll had slipped from them. There was no need to look back to see if they were after us as their footsteps echoed along the long narrow hallways as they chased after Shisui and me.

We climbed out of the fortress and continued running, praying they wouldn't catch up with us.

"Akira! Run!" Shisui commanded as he glanced at Akira who started to jump through the trees back home.

"Catch them!" The clamoring of the men rose to a deafening crescendo as they finally caught sight of us. The sound of armor clanking and spears being drawn echoed off the stone walls.

Before we could even react, Shisui was already moving. He swiftly tugged me closer, his body pressed against mine as he activated the Sharingan. "Stay close," he muttered, his voice calm despite the rising chaos.

Without wasting a second, he darted toward the shadows, pulling me along with him as we slipped between the cracks and branches of the trees.

We crouched on a tree branch just behind Akira as we listened to the guards' shout orders. My pulse raced in my ears, but Shisui's steady breathing beside me calmed the storm within. "Looks like they can't keep up."

"Oh Kami, that was quick," I cheered as I stood up from the tree branch.

Before I knew it, my entire view went blank as I lost my footing and fell to the floor.

"Y/N!" Shisui's voice rang out, sharp with concern, as he and Akira leapt down from the tree branch.

I blinked slowly, my vision blurry from the sudden impact with the ground. My body ached, and I could feel the sting of embarrassment creep up my cheeks more than the pain itself. Before I could sit up, Shisui was already at my side, his hands gently lifting me up to a sitting position. His face was inches from mine, brows furrowed with worry.

"Are you alright?" he asked softly, his usual teasing tone replaced with genuine concern.

Akira stood nearby, arms crossed but his expression showed a rare flash of worry as well. "You good, Y/N? Thought you had better balance than that donkey."

I winced, holding my head as my view became blurred and dizzy.

"I'm sorry I don't know what just happened."

Akira knelt in front of me as he gestured for me to follow his finger as he moved it across my face, "If I had to take a guess, I think all that flickering messed up your ear balance so when you got up, you fainted."

Shisui's eyes softened, and he let out a relieved sigh, his hand lightly brushing a stray lock of hair away from my face. "Just don't scare us like that again, alright? I'd prefer if you didn't test gravity while we're being chased."

Just as we thought we were in the clear, a long sharp spear cut through the atmosphere barely missing Akira. The four armoured men appeared from the shadows as they cornered us against the tree.

Shisui and his quick thinking managed to steer of the four men briefly as his fireball jutsu forced them to stagger back, but they quickly regrouped as their weapons gleamed in the darkness.

"Akira, stay with Y/N," Shisui commanded as he pulled out a kunai from his jacket.

"No, you're outnumbered. I can help!" Akira yelled.

"Akira, don't undermine my command. Stay with her." 

Shisui turned his focus to the enemies in front of us as he flickered in and out of our view, his movements swift and precise, each strike pushing them back further.

Akira clenched his fists, clearly wanting to argue but the intensity in Shisui's voice left no room for debate as he started his medical ninjutsu on me.

One of the armoured men slipped away from the chaos, creeping silently along the shadows. His gaze locked onto Akira, who was crouched beside me, keeping watch while I recovered. The man moved with an eerie stealth, his spear held low to the ground, its tip gleaming under the moonlight.

Without warning, he lunged forward, thrusting his spear toward Akira's side. The sound of steel slicing through the air was the only warning Akira had.

"Akira watch out!" I screamed. I tried to push myself up but legs gave out, weak from the countless flickering.

Akira gritted his teeth and rolled to the side, just avoiding the deadly spear's second strike. With one swift motion, he pulled out a kunai, blocking the man's next attack. The clash of metal rang through the night as the two struggled, Akira's face contorted in pain but refusing to back down.

"Earth style: Headhunter Jutsu!" Akira yelled as one of his clones emerged from the earth, dragging the armoured assailant down into the ground. Akira pressed two of his fingers at the cervical pressure point in the armoured assailant's neck as he released high-pressure chakra to the point, rendering him unconscious.

Akira leaped through the dense canopy, his breath ragged and his side still stinging from the wound. He winced with each movement but pushed forward, determined to find Shisui. The trees blurred past him as he scanned the area, the dark shadows of the forest making it harder to track his teammate.

"Shisui!" he called out, his voice barely audible over the wind rushing past his ears.

In the distance, he spotted the familiar silhouette darting between the trees as he quickened his pace, landing on a nearby branch. "Shisui, I'm here," he panted as his grip on his kunai tightened.

"Akira!" Shisui yelled, "I told you to stay with her!"

"And let you just take these guys out on your own? Yeah right," Akira said as he rolled his eyes.

Akira and Shisui, back-to-back, sent a barrage of kunai and shuriken to the remaining three men.

"Shisui... it's been a while since we fought like this. What do you say? Shall we hit them with our jutsu?" Akira asked as a smirk painted across his face.

Shisui glanced over his shoulder, a grin forming on his lips, "For old times sake."

With a swift nod, both shinobi leapt into action, their movements synchronised like a well-rehearsed dance without missing a step. Akira's chakra flared around them as the air around them began to stir as he prepared his Wind release. "Don't fall behind Uchiha."

Shisui chuckled as he weaved the hand signs for his Fire release igniting between his palms.

"Fire Style: Great Fireball Jutsu!"      "Wind Style: Gale Palm!"

The massive fireball that Shisui released collided with Akira's wind, causing the flames to burn into an unstoppable inferno. The combined jutsu engulfed the remainder of the men in a blazing destruction.

"Not bad for old times," Akira chuckled, as he immediately started medical ninjutsu on himself at the point where the shaft of the enemy's spear bruised him.

"Akira..." Shisui sighed, "That was incredibly reckless of you. I gave you a direct order to stay with Y/N which you disobeyed, and whi-"

"Look, its no big deal Shisui. I dealt with the man who approached me and Y/N and promptly came to back you up when I saw that you were fending off the other three," Akira interrupted as he pleaded his case.

Shisui's gaze softened, but his voice remained firm. "Akira, it's not about what I want. It's about responsibility. You're an excellent shinobi, but you can't just bend the rules when it suits you—especially when it comes to medical ninjutsu. You know how strict those laws are for a reason."

Akira clenched his fists, frustration burning in his eyes.

"The Hokage has entrusted us to follow the rules, not because they're easy or convenient, but because lives depend on them."

Akira turned away; jaw tight. "So, what now? I get dragged before the Hokage and stripped of everything?"

"No," Shisui said quietly, "but there will be consequences. I'm not doing this to punish you—I'm trying to help you. I don't want your talents wasted because you refused to listen."

Listening to their conversation, I couldn't help but feel guilty now that Akira will get punished. All because I got a little dizzy and fell from a stupid tree.

"Akira, I'm so so sorry. You only jumped into battle because I couldn't protect myself... protect us," I said quietly.

"No," Akira said offering me a hand, "You were injured. People get injured on missions all the time. It's my responsibility to heal you, not to recklessly jump into battle like that."

I took Akira's hand as he helped me find my footing, but I still found my legs to be weak.

"Akira, you are our friend, we will stand by you no matter what," Shisui reassured as we made our way back to Konohagakure.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Suspicion brews as Kakashi ponders just who this Kunoichi 13 is. A kunoichi who can virtually kill without leaving a trace. Kakashi can't help but shiver at the thought as his mind wonders back to when his father tragically passed away, when word of a blood manipulating shinobi came into contact with his fathers platoon. 

On the other hand, forced proximity between Y/N and Shisui?! He's so effortlessly smooth with it, I love him. And poor Akira being forced to witness all of this. 

I would like to officially announce that Shisui x Y/N is underway, how cute! 

I also have a new obsession and it's piplup. 

Loving you always, 

Suri

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter twelve - sleepover

chapter eleven | chapter thirteen

Sumire, why are you in Konoha?" I asked, my head resting on her lap as she played with my hair.

Her fingers froze for a moment, then slowly resumed, smoothing out my strands. She traced my cheek softly before giving it a playful pinch. "Why else?" she replied, "I'm here for you."

"That's not what I meant," I said as I raised my head to meet her gaze, "How are you physically here? How did you leave the Hidden Rivers Village? Why did you leave?"

"My, that was a lot of questions, little one," she chuckled softly, "Let's make this more fun—how about a game? A question for a question, and I promise I'll tell you everything."

Her playful smile marked a thin veil disguising unreadable memories that have hardened with time.

"Okay, I'll ask first," Sumire said point-blank, her tone suddenly sombre.

Her gaze locked onto mine, unwavering, as the playful air between us dissolved, "Two years ago after mother's death, where did you go?"

The silence between us was palpable, as each tick of the clock heightened the dense tension between us.

Telling her the truth will be too much for her to handle. Telling her the truth will only cause her to worry. Telling her the truth could shatter the delicate, fragile peace that we have now.

"I was doing missions in Kirigakure, I was still technically a chunin of the Hidden Mist Village so one of my old teachers took me back," I said, lying through my teeth.

I stare down at my palms, swallowing the truth of my lie. I'm disgusting. These hands and blood of mine have killed—relentlessly, brutally, and violently. Shinobi, civilians, criminals. But at the end of the day, they were all human. Each life, a soul lost because of me. I've been reaping lives on the orders of others as if life itself had no value, no meaning.

And on a selfish whim, I don't want Sumire to see me as a cold-hearted murderer. I don't want her to look at me and see a monster where her little sister used to be—the same sister who once dreamed of simpler times in our cramped attic, making up stories of a brighter future.

"So that Lady who was there the day mom died was a teacher of yours?" she asked.

"Hey! It's my turn to ask a question," I remarked, "So how did you, a person whose legs don't work, end up in Konoha, many, many miles away from the Hidden Rivers Village?"

"Ah," Sumire said faintly, her fingers stilling in my hair, "It wasn't easy, but when you're determined, the distance becomes irrelevant."

"Sumire, I'm being serious. Stop avoiding my question," I said, my tone firm as I sat up to face her directly.

She sighed, the glint in her eyes fading. "You're too inquisitive for your own good, little one. After mother's death, father wasn't very kind to me... In a way, we lost both you and mother when you left." She glanced away, placing her hands in her lap.

"He started drinking more... It was a nightmare," she continued, her voice trembling. "He turned the house upside down, searching for more money to drink away. And one day, he decided that I was too much of a burden for him to look after. After all, I'm disabled and unable to work. I bring nothing to the family but trouble," she sniffled, wiping away her tears.

"It wasn't long before he kicked me out of the house. Thankfully, some of the clan members took me in but I just couldn't bring myself to accept their help," she continued, her voice heavy with pain.

"I just couldn't bring myself to burden them... it would have been far too cruel. So, I just left, but I didn't get very far because well I'm disabled," she laughed dryly, "A shinobi found me and helped me get away from father, from the clan and he let me stay here... he said that I'll be safe here and did some sort of jutsu and said that traces of chakra energy will be hidden from other shinobi."

My eyes start to sting as I listen to her story. The pain and the loneliness she endured flooded over me like a wave.

"I'm so sorry Sumire," I cried, "I didn't know that leaving you caused you this much pain. I'm so so sorry."

"It's not your fault, little one. You had a duty to do," Sumire said, her voice softening. "I'm sure at some point, father would have kicked me out anyway. He never truly cared for either of us."

The tears wash over me, and I can't help but pull Sumire into a hug. Her frame is fragile against mine, and I hold her tightly, hoping to offer some comfort.

But wait.

I pull back slightly, my confusion and panic evident in my expression as my thoughts scramble to piece together the details of her story. Something doesn't add up. Why would a shinobi house a fugitive and conceal her trace?

"What do you mean that a shinobi helped you escape? A shinobi led you to this dingy shack and said that you could stay here?" I asked.

"Little one, you're terrible at this game—it's my turn to ask a question," Sumire chuckled, wiping away the last of her tears. "So, why did you cut your hair so short?"

I stared at her, frustration mounting. "Here you are, worrying about my hair when a so-called 'shinobi' takes you to this cabin, installs you in here erasing all traces of your chakra. Sumire, who is this man?"

"Nuh uh, answer me first."

"Fine, when I was doing my missions, my long hair stuck out like a sore thumb. It's just so bright and red. It didn't take much for enemy shinobi to recognise me as an Uzumaki. So, I cut it," I said, "Tell me, who is this man?"

"I... I can't seem to remember his name; he said that if I followed him, I'd meet up with you. So, without thinking twice I went with him."

"You're telling me you followed some random stranger, who for Kami knows why, knew who I am, and promised you could meet me?" I snapped, my voice rising in disbelief. The last threads of my composure had finally given way.

Sumire's eyes widened slightly, her fingers fidgeting nervously in her lap. "I didn't think it was dangerous," she whispered. "I was desperate to see you again."

The panic inside me bubbled over. "But that's just it, Sumire. You don't know who this man is or what his intentions are! What if he's already watching us? What if we've been played this whole time? What if he's related to someone I've killed in a mission and has installed you here to take vengeance by hurting you?" I stood up, pacing, my mind racing with every possible worst-case scenario, "If we try to leave Konoha, Kami knows if he will follow us..."

"I didn't think it would be like that," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I just... I thought I was doing the right thing by coming here. I didn't mean to put you in danger, Y/N, I swear."

She lowered her head, guilt etching itself into every line of her expression. "I'm sorry... I just wanted us to be together again, away from all the danger."

I stopped pacing across the room as my thoughts tried to piece together who this 'shinobi' was.

"Sumire... what did this person look like?"

"I couldn't really see what he looked like, he wore a mask and he had a really deep voice."

Sumire's words sent a chill down my spine. "A mask and a deep voice?" I echoed, my mind flashing to the masked man who followed me from The Byakuya to the Hidden Rivers Village.

"Yeah... He always kept his face hidden. He said it was for my protection," Sumire continued, her voice trembling slightly. "Actually... I don't think he ever told me his name either, but he seemed to know everything about me—and about you."

Shit, shit, shit. It must be him. It must be the same masked man who burned down the village. The same masked man who wants me to spy on Kushina.

My heart pounded in my chest like a drum as my breathing became erratic and shallow as the realisation sank in. Shit, the masked man had gotten to Sumire long before he hunted me down. He must have been watching us from the shadows for who knows how long, always lurking just out of sight. He must have been. My chest tightened as every worst-case scenario ran through my mind.

"Y/N are you okay? Is there somet-"

"This man, we can't trust him," I interrupted, my voice sharper than I intended. Without waiting for a response, I rushed to the shelves, pulling open each drawer and shelf. My hands trembled as they fumbled through the scattered paper and clutter, desperately searching for an empty scroll.

"Y/N... are you in trouble?"

My mind doesn't register the question Sumire asked as it hangs in the air. I tear open the empty scroll with trembling hands, biting down on my finger until blood wells up. The urgency gnawed at me. I need to do something, anything to save Sumire.

"Y/N... what are you doing?" Sumire's voice wavers behind me, but my focus stays locked. I can't afford to lose control now as I draw out a jutsu on the scroll before inscribing the last few symbols.

"Sumire, this scroll contains a sealing jutsu," I explained, my voice trembling slightly as I rolled up the scroll. "It's a specific type of sealing jutsu... when you open the scroll, it will release my chakra, a signal that only I can feel. If that same masked man or someone who works with him shows up here, open the scroll and I'll know and I'll come to you."

Sumire's eyes widened as she watched me, her hands holding the scroll tensely.

"But... why do I need something like this?"

I couldn't bring myself to meet her gaze, "I don't know... I'm sorry. But we can't trust this masked man. We need to be prepared."

After handing her the scroll, I say my goodbye to her before making my way out of the dingy cabin and through the densely packed forest.

He must have anticipated my departure from The Byakuya long before I even made my decision. Had he been watching from the shadows all this time, pulling the strings without me knowing? It was the only explanation. It must be.

My thoughts were soon interrupted by a grappling vine emerging from the earth as it wrapped around my leg, stopping me in my tracks as I stumbled to gain my balance.

Kami, why does the floor love me so much?

"Long time no see Kunoichi Thirteen!" a voice chirped from above me.

"Oh, it's you, Zetsu," I said, anxiety coiling around my chest.

"Leader-sama wants updates on the Nine tails Jinchuriki," Zetsu said, as his tree branch wrapped around my leg tightened.

"What about her?"

"Cmon Princess, you know better than to play dumb with me."

"I have nothing to report about Kushina Uzumaki," I said, my voice unwavering as I refused to give up information about Kushina sensei.

Zetsu's grip on my leg loosens as he steps towards me, kunai in hand. His eyes glint with and a sinister smirk painted across his face.

"Dear Y/N, you're making me angry," Zetsu chuckles. Without skipping a beat, he drives a kunai through my arm, dragging the sharp blade down my arm. The metal rips through my deltoid muscle, relentlessly tearing away at my flesh as he twists the kunai over and over again.

I bite down hard on my tongue, trying to stifle the scream that threatens to leave my throat. If I scream now, the shinobi guarding the village gates will hear and will undoubtedly find out about Sumire and then my identity.

Besides, I can't give Zetsu the satisfaction of hearing my pain.

"Don't cross me again. The next time we meet I expect a full report on Kushina Uzumaki," Zetsu spat, as he pulled the kunai out of my arm. "Bye bye Y/N!" he cheered before seeping back into the earth.

My knees give in to the pain, causing me to collapse to the floor. I clutch my bleeding arm, teeth clenched tightly to suppress any sound. My mind races with fear and dread—how long will it be before Zetsu finds me again and demands answers about Kushina Sensei? What if he goes after Sumire?

My grip on my arm tightens as I try to stop the bleeding. Blood Manipulation: Blood bind. The blood which poured out slowly came to a halt as a thick mesh formed over the wound. The intense pain started to subside, replaced by a thick clot over the surface of my skin. The barrier of blood continued to pulse faintly, a constant reminder that this was my life now.

The thought of betraying Kushina sensei to the masked man at the cost of Sumire's life. Both their lives hung in the balance, suspended by a thread of my own making. The pressure of the situation, the looming threat of Zetsu and the masked man and the constant fear for both of their safety created a churning storm within me.

But for now, all I can do is play the role of the orphaned Y/N Uzumaki who has been taken in by the Leaf Village. I pick myself up from the ground, and after having scouted my surroundings, I make my way to the village towards Rin's house.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-

Making my way through the village at this hour has become clockwork. I slip through quiet side streets that are hardly occupied by civilians, much less by shinobi. The narrow alleys and corners provide me with respite from the ever-present watchful eye of any shinobi tailing me. Each step is methodical, each turn a familiar path in my nightly routine. The dim streetlamps cast long shadows, and the occasional rustle of the night breeze is the only sound that accompanies my careful movements.

I stand in front of Rin's door, contemplating knocking on her door as uncertainty shakes through me. Rin somehow convinced me that a sleepover is just what I need to assimilate into Konoha better and to make new friends. But my run-in with Zetsu shook me to my core, reminding me of why I am even here in the first place.

My very existence in Konoha is temporary, with Kushina sensei's life hung in the balance as well as the hope of a future with Sumire.

There's no point in turning back now, Rin is a shinobi I'm sure she has picked up on my chakra outside her door.

I lift my hand and knock gently, each tap quiet but deliberate. Moments later, I hear a hurried shuffle of footsteps approaching from within. The door creaks open, and Rin's face emerges, her eyes widening as they meet mine.

"You made it!" she cheered as she held my hands, ushering me inside her home, "For a second, I thought you wouldn't come."

She takes me into her quaint living room, decorated with soft, warm fairy lights which twinkled on the walls. Knitted quilts and blankets were scattered across the floor in front of the TV, as a movie mindlessly played. Rin gestured me to sit down as she handed me a warm cup of green tea.

"Y/N, I want you to meet my friend Kurenai," Rin said, introducing me to her friend with long dark hair that falls straight down her back and deep crimson eyes.

"It's nice to meet you Y/N! Rin's said so much about you," she chirped as Kurenai took a seat next to me.

"Thank you for letting me join your sleepover," I chuckled. "I've never really done this before. I'm not too sure what I'm meant to do. Was I supposed to bring something?" I said nervously before darting my gaze between the two girls.

"You've never been to a sleepover?!" Rin shouted in shock, "The pressure is high Kurenai, we need to make her first a good one!"

"You're gonna love it Y/N!," Kurenai chuckled, "Except, we're missing just one other person."

"I wonder if she'll ever show, you never know with Anko," Rin sighed as the two girls settled next to me on the couch as we sat and watched the movie that played on the TV.

"Were you guys in the same class back in the Academy?" I asked inquisitively.

"Yeah, all of us in our class are pretty close," Rin answered, "There's a whole bunch of us. Even though we're on separate teams we still meet up from time to time."

"What about you? Are you close with anyone from the Academy?" Kurenai asked as her soft crimson eyes glanced towards me.

"I wasn't in the Academy for long, but I get on well with my teammates," I replied, tucking my hair behind my ear reminiscing the times I've spent with my teammates so far. Kushina... Shisui... and Akira hold a dear place in my heart. It's something I never planned to happen in all my time here.

"Kurenai, did you know Y/N is on the same team as Shisui?" Rin exclaimed

"Really?! Tell me, what's it like being on the same team as Shisui of the body flicker?"

"I mean he's a really formidable shinobi, I even knew of him when I was in Kirigakure and he cares a lot for our team, always looking out for us and sensei."

"Yeah, we knew he's strong, but what I mean is that don't you find his friendly nature charming? That and the fact that he's a skilled shinobi." Kurenai continued, her tone light and teasing.

"W-what do you mean?" I stuttered as a blush painted my cheeks.

Kurenai's teasing smile widened as she noticed my reaction. "Oh, nothing much! But I think that reaction says a lot, Y/N"

"You should have seen Y/N and Shisui at the picnic a few days ago," Rin chuckled, adding fuel to the fire. "They were stealing glances, whispering to each other, and giggling nonstop!"

"W-what?!" I stammer. "No, we aren't like that! I mean he's a huge dork and he can be funny at times... But there's no way we are like that, right?!"

I remembered how he always had a way of making me feel seen and heard, even when I tried to hide what was really bothering me. The way he'd look at me with those warm, understanding eyes, like he could see right through the facade I put up. And the way he smiled—Kami, that smile—so genuine, so infectious. It made the weight of the world seem a little lighter, even if just for a moment.

My cheeks grew warmer as I recalled the way he'd ruffle my hair or flick my forehead when I was lost in thought, his touch lingering longer than it needed to. How sometimes, when he thought no one was looking, his gaze would linger on me, soft and thoughtful, like he was trying to figure out what was going on in my head.

Wait, was I... was I really thinking about him like this?

Rin's laughter pulled me out of my thoughts, and I blinked, realizing I had been silent for too long. "See? She's already off in delulu land thinking about him," she teased, nudging me with her elbow.

"N-no, I was just... I mean, we're just teammates!" I tried to protest, but even I could hear how weak it sounded.

Kurenai leaned in, her smile gentle now. "It's okay, Y/N. You don't have to pretend with us. It's obvious you care about him, maybe more than just as a teammate."

I bit my lip, looking down at my hands. Could they be right? I'd always admired Shisui as a shinobi, as a friend, but was it more than that? Did I... like him?

A small, tentative smile tugged at my lips. Maybe, just maybe, there was something there. Something that went beyond the battlefield, beyond our roles as shinobi. And as terrifying as that thought was, it was also strangely comforting. Because if there was anyone who could make me feel this way, who could make me believe in something more, it would be him.

"We're only playing with you Y/N," Kurenai reassured, "Well, it's good to see you settling in we..."

"Bitches, today we become women!" a voice screams, interrupting Kurenai. The sound of the front door being kicked open echoed through Rin's house as a kunoichi dressed in a mesh scanty top and shorts walked in.

"Anko, you know you could have just rung the bell, and I would have opened the door for you," Rin sighed as she welcomed Anko in.

"You know I like to make a flashy entrance Rin," Anko said as she made her way to the couch. She marked her territory on the couch, manspreading between me and Kurenai.

Anko's enthusiastic approach caught me off guard. "You must be the gorgeous, new Uzumaki girl," she exclaimed, her hands gripping mine firmly. In one swift motion, she pulled me closer and tilted my chin up so I had no choice but to meet her gaze. "Are you single by chance? And into women?"

If I wasn't as red as my hair before, I certainly was now. I quickly pulled my hands away from her grip, hiding my face between my palms, my brain short-circuiting from her unexpected comment.

"Anko don't assault her! Besides she's younger than us!" Kurenai sighed as she stood between me and Anko.

"Sorry no I'm not into women," I whispered, as words returned to my mind, "And yes I am single." [Author note: justice for the gays!]

"Better luck next time Anko," Rin laughed, as Anko's mood deflated as she slouched back onto the couch. "Anyways what's up with the 'Bitches we become women' comment?"

"Oh! Here," Anko said, jumping up from the couch as she pulled out a DVD from her pocket, "This movie will teach us everything we need to know about being women. About using our bodies to get what we want!"

"You're gonna make us watch porn?!" Kurenai asked horrified as she watched Anko dance around the living room.

"No... technically no," Anko argued as she watched Kurenai and Rin roll their eyes, "Hear me out! Imagine this... we are sent out on an espionage mission and our only weapon on our hands are our best ass'n'tits."

"Our what?" I questioned.

"Our assets," Anko coughed out. "Cmon, it'll be fun and maybe you two could take some notes. Maybe you'll be left inspired... Rin might even grow some balls to ask out Kakashi! And you Kurenai, maybe you'll stop running away from Asuma each time he comes to talk to you," Anko argued, calling out each of her friends before her gaze settled on me.

"And you, Y/N I'm sure that this movie will teach you just how to seduce... guys help me out here, who is she into?" Anko muttered as she looked at Kurenai and Rin.

"Shisui." The pair of them replied without sparing a second.

"What, oh Kami help me," I whispered as I realised I was playing a losing game.

"That's it. Our very own Y/N will be the one to seduce Shisui Uchiha!" Anko exclaimed as a light bulb went off in her mind, "And I can sit back and watch as you make me proud!"

"So should we just kick Anko out right now?" Kurenai asked deadpanned as all three of us held up our hands in agreement.

"You guys! You're so mean! What if this is a dream of mine?"

"You should dream bigger, Anko," I giggled, as we watched Anko collapse on the couch giving us all the silent treatment.

"It's okay she'll get over it soon," Kurenai reassured me as she took a seat next to me.

"Okay let's just watch a movie. I'll go put some rice in the cooker for us to eat," Rin said as she walked off into the kitchen.

"My movie?" Anko muttered, giving me and Kurenai a pair of shit-eating puppy dog eyes.

"No!" we said simultaneously, as Anko stuffed her head between pillows, refusing to make eye contact.

All four of us settled on the couch as we watched the movie. It wasn't long before soft snores filled the air as we watched Anko drool away on her pillow. Kurenai and Rin gently draped a blanket over her sleeping figure as I adjusted her pillows.

"I'm so happy you came today," Rin whispered to me, "I know that Konoha could never replace your family and your real home."

"We want you to one day call us your family," Kurenai added as they snuggled up to me.

My heart clenched. How could they, these people I barely knew, offer me something so precious when I am only here to betray their very trust.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Y/N has been providing for Sumire for years now, after their deadbeat father drank away his money. Not very slay of him. The masked man still has his monopoly over Y/N as the clock continues to tick, Y/N's time is slowly running out

But you guys this chapter was so fun to write! That little spark in Y/Ns head which burns for Shisui has spread like wildfire, no thanks to Kurenai, Rin and Anko. 

I love writing these 4 characters together (there is another chapter later where you will find yourself in the company of these three girls PS it might be my favourite chapter so far hehe) 

Also, I'm going away in a few days so I probably won't update until November-ish. I will be sat at the beach sipping away at cocktails, living life stress free until I come back (and realise I'm drowning in deadlines again). 

Loving you always, 

Suri

[luv-kakashi]

hows that story coming along?

( luv u too )

xoxo

peach

writing has been slow but the chapters i have saved in my drafts are making me wanna quit my degree and become an author (someone deflate my ego rn and remind me that i have 20k in debt and cant afford to drop out now)

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter eleven - picnic

chapter ten | chapter twelve

"Morning Uchiha," I yawned, stretching as the morning sun warmed my face. The streets bathed in the soft glow of dawn, and the air carried the crisp, clean scent of a new day.

As I walked towards him, I could see Shisui standing with his back to me, his posture relaxed but alert, as always. The gentle breeze ruffled his curly hair as he turned to me.

"Good morning, YN," he replied, with his signature grin. "So, you got the message too?" he said, pulling out a small, neatly folded piece of paper from his pocket.

"Yeah, I wonder if Akira got one too," I replied, as I pulled out an identical piece of paper.

After placing the note back into his pocket, Shisui's eyes narrowed, locking onto mine with an intensity that made my breath catch.

"Have you been training this morning?" he asks, his gaze never faltering from mine.

Instinctively, I start to rub the back of my neck, fearful that my ID is on full display. My mind races for an answer, but I can't help but think that his piercing eyes know the full truth.

"No, I'm just a really strong kunoichi," I retorted, hoping my joke would distract him.

But it doesn't change the fact that nothing escapes the Uchiha and his instincts. He must be sensing a genjutsu on me. The longer I stay in his presence, the more difficult it will be to divert his suspicion, which I'm sure is already growing.

The thought lingers in my mind as the realisation dawns upon me.

Any skilled jounin will be able to sense the genjutsu, betrayed by the dense chakra found near my head and neck.

"Mhm, I'm sure you are Uzumaki," he chuckled, as his usual toothy smile returned to his face.

"You don't believe me Shisui?" I feigned shock as I placed a hand on my chest.

"And is that why we caught you struggling to grab some instant ramen from your top shelf the other day?" Shisui's grin widened as he walked besides me.

"Excuse me, I could have grabbed it myself it if someone hadn't swooped in with their body flicker technique."

He chuckled. "Oh so you're blaming my superior ninjutsu for your lack of height?"

"Hey! There is nothing wrong with my height. Besides, I was doing just fine standing on my chair!"

Shisui raised an eyebrow. "Standing? It looked more like wobbling."

"I was not wobbling! I was balancing."

"Mhm, sure you were Uzumaki. If I hadn't been there we'd have eaten floor ramen," he said as he shook his head, still smiling.

"Well, ramen's great no matter where you eat it," I shot back, "and don't act like you wouldn't still eat it."

Shisui gave a mock gasp. "You wound me, Y/N. I'm a man of class. I would never—"

"Eat off the floor? Wow, are the Uchiha too above everyone else?" We both laughed as a comfortable silence settled between us as we listened to the morning birds hum their songs.

"Are we supposed to have a mission today?" Akira yawned as he finally joined us, "Please say it's not so. I have another night shift today."

"Nice of you to finally grace us with your presence Bakakira," I chuckled.

"You chose the medic life, Bakakira. Beggars can't be choosers," Shisui retorted, eyeing Akira, who seemed to be suffering from an incurable case of the yawns.

"Hey! This isn't fair! You both can't gang up on me!" Akira protested though the grin on his face betrayed his mock indignation.

"Thank you for meeting here," a voice interrupted, "Sorry, it's so early it was the only time I could do this."

Kushina is the last to arrive, meeting us at the training ground. She's wearing a long green dress, her beautiful fiery red hair cascading freely down her back as she carries a picnic basket.

"I wanted to invite you all to breakfast with Minato and his team," she explained, as we walked towards the grassy area surrounded by towering trees that sway gently in the breeze. "I'm so sorry it's so early but Minato leaves for a mission today, you know!"

A large picnic blanket is laid out in front of us with its classic red-and-white checked pattern, on which a man with strikingly yellow hair and a girl with deep rich purple markings on her cheeks sat, busy in their conversation.

Sitting on one corner of the picnic blanket was a boy with strikingly spiky, silver hair, who remained indifferent to the conversation around him. His expression was one of quiet detachment, eyes half-lidded as if lost in thought, giving little away about what was going on in his mind.

Geez, is having an odd hair law in Konoha?

"Kushina sensei!" The girl chirped as she watched us walk over to her.

The four of us take a seat on the picnic blanket, with Kushina sensei naturally finding her way to her partner's side. Akira and Shisui settle next to each other, as they chat and joke. This leaves me with the only remaining space on the blanket—right next to the quiet, cold boy with strikingly silver hair. Hesitating for a moment, but with no other option, I sit down beside him, feeling the subtle tension in the air as his indifferent gaze flickers toward me before returning to the distance.

"Akira, Y/N, I'd like you guys to meet Minato," Kushina said, blushing as she reached for his hand, "My husband."

"Hello Akira, Y/N, it's lovely to finally meet you. Kushina has told me a lot about you guys," Minato chuckled, "And it's lovely to see you again Shisui."

Shisui grinned and gave a casual nod. "It's good to see you too, Minato. You're looking well."

"I'll let the rest of Team Minato introduce themselves," Minato said looking towards the girl with the deep purple marks on her cheeks.

"Hi! My name is Rin Nohara and I'm the medic of the team, it's lovely to meet you." The girl chirped. "I think we've met before," she said as she gazed at Akira, "you work at the hospital, don't you?"

The faintest blush dusted Akira's cheeks as his eyes widened at her glance. "Yes, that's right. I do work there," he replied, a bit flustered but smiling. "It's nice to meet you, Minato. I didn't realize you were Kushina sensei's husband."

My eyes settled on the spiky, silver-haired boy at my side as I awaited his introduction to the group.

"The name's Kakashi Hatake," He finally says, his voice detached and his eyes never bothering to shift his gaze from the horizon.

The silence between us is thick, almost palpable, as if the very air around him carries a chill. I can't help but wonder what thoughts lie behind those distant, unreadable eyes.

"Anyways, here help yourselves to breakfast. We've bought your favourite foods!" Kushina cheers as she laid out all the food. The blanket is decorated with an assortment of food—freshly baked bread, colourful dango and fruit, bowls of ramen and grilled fish.

"Hey Rin, you work at the hospital too, right? Which ward are you working on?" Akira asks as he passes a couple of pieces of fruit towards her, his fingertips brushing against hers.

Rin smiles softly, accepting the fruit. "I'm rotating between wards at the moment," she replies, her voice warm. "I'll be starting general surgery next week, hopefully, I'll learn skills I can use on missions." Her eyes brighten as she speaks, while Akira listens intently, nodding along.

The interaction between Akira and Rin was cute, to say the least. The way she smiled warmly at him, and the faint blush that dusted Akira's cheeks, did not go unnoticed by me and Shisui. We shared a silent glance of understanding between the two.

'Akira will never hear the last of it from us,' I whisper to Shisui as he chuckles at the scene unfolding in front of us.

Shisui leaned closer towards me as he handed me a dango. "Y/N Why did the dango go to school?"

"Is this going to be one of your dorky puns again?" I chuckled as I rolled my eyes. 

"To get a little "stick"tionary!" Shisui giggled as I stared back at him blank faced.

"Y/N don't look at me like that... I can't handle how un-skewer-ably cute you are!" Shisui muttered through his teeth before breaking out into a laugh.

"That was painful to hear Shisui," I admitted as Shisui stared off into the distance as heartbreak washed over his face.

Shisui looked back at me in shock as he took back the dango he offered me. "Dango breaking my heart!". I rolled my eyes at his antics, giving him a small shove in response.

"Y/N, did you know Minato Sensei is known as the Yellow Flash of the Leaf?" Shisui asks me, his voice filled with admiration as his eyes gleam with excitement.  "They say he's so fast that enemies don't even see him coming until it's too late. I've seen him in action—it's like watching a blur on the battlefield."

Hearing Shisui talk about Minato makes me choke mid-dango. Minato-sensei is the Minato Namikaze. As in the Yellow Flash of the Leaf. The realization hits me like a ton of bricks, even though the thought isn't entirely unfamiliar.

In the Byakuya, we were given specific orders to retreat if we ever encountered shinobi that the Byakuya considered to be 'blacklisted.' And on this blacklisted shinobi list, at the very top, was none other than Minato Namikaze himself.

The stories about him weren't just tales—they were warnings, etched into our minds during training. The idea that the man sitting calmly across from me, casually chatting, smiling, and snacking on dango was the same person capable of wiping out entire squads in the blink of an eye sent a shiver down my spine.

In fact, Shisui himself is no stranger to me either. Shisui of the Body Flicker—a name that made frequent appearances in the blacklisted books as I rose through the ranks in the Byakuya. His speed and deadly precision were legendary.

To think that I'm sitting here, surrounded by not just one, but two of the most feared shinobi, both of whom could change the course of a battle in an instant, is enough to make my pulse quicken.

"Really? Oh Kami, my papa told me so much about you!" I lied through my teeth, feigning excitement. "You must let me see the Flying Raijin Jutsu, please!" I added, hoping my eagerness would mask the tension I felt.

My heart raced at the thought of the genjutsu being exposed to not just one, but several skilled shinobi sat around me.

Is this my reality now? Living in constant fear that at any moment, someone will uncover my identity—not just as Y/N Uzumaki, but as Kunoichi Thirteen, The Byakuya Princess? Am I condemned to deceit? Forced to maintain a façade while those who have welcomed me into their village as a poor, orphaned child remain blissfully unaware?

The thoughts linger in my mind as I question why I am even in Konoha. I submitted to the masked man's whims on the terms that I'd be reunited with Sumire, and that I would get to start a new life with her away from a life of murder and deceit.

Yet here I am, surrounded by a team who have welcomed me as their own as Sumire sits secluded and isolated in her dingy cabin 40km from here.

Worst of all, Kushina-sensei, Akira, and Shisui have crept their way into my heart, and I'm beginning to care for them in ways I never anticipated.

I want to see Akira become a successful medic for his father's sake.

I want to see Shisui climb the ranks and become a powerful shinobi.

I want Kushina Sensei and Minato Sensei to teach me, to guide me in ways that I never thought I'd need or desire.

Yet who am I to desire such things when I am forced to betray these very people?

"I'll show it to you one day," Minato said, interrupting my thoughts. "If you impress me at the Chunin Exams, I might even teach you," he chuckled, rising from the blanket. "Unfortunately, I must leave for my mission now. It was lovely meeting all of you. I'll see you all soon."

With a warm smile and a final nod, Minato turned and walked away, leaving me to wrestle with the bittersweet mix of hope and guilt swirling inside me.

The rest of us talked and delighted in the food Kushina sensei and Minato sensei bought for us. With each laugh and joke that was heard, Kakashi remained indifferent as he showed no interest in the rest of the group.

"Here, have a dango they're really delicious," I said, holding out a skewer towards him.

Kakashi glanced briefly at the dango, then at me.

"No," he muttered a small, barely audible response as his expression remained unreadable, his gaze returning to the distance, as if the offer had never been made as he refused to converse me.

His point-blank stare and the coldness of his words were all too familiar, a look I had become accustomed to in the Byakuya. That hardened, distant demeanour was a shield, one I recognized well. One that can only be built up through pain, grief and guilt.

The warmth and chatter beside me was interrupted by the sharp cry of a messenger bird, which landed beside our picnic blanket with a scroll tied to it. Kushina examines the contents of the scroll as she sighs.

"Looks like the Hokage requests for our presence," Kushina says, "Sorry to cut this picnic short, but the Hokage would also like to see Shisui and Kakashi too."

Kakashi was the first to rise from the blanket, his movements quick and efficient as if he'd been waiting for this moment. Without a word, he dusted himself off, his usual indifference fully intact.

"I'll see you guys later," Shisui said, departing alongside Kushina and Kakashi, giving us a quick wave before disappearing into the distance.

"As much as I want to stay and hang out, I'm about to collapse. I need my sleep, I've got another shift," Akira moaned, burying his face into his hands, unable to stifle his yawns.

"Get some rest, Akira. You'll need it," Rin chuckled softly, watching him with a warm smile. Akira groaned in response but gave a playful wave as he slowly stood, leaving me in Rin's company.

"We should hang out! I mean, that is if you're not too busy," Rin asked eagerly.

"Sure!"

We walked along the paths of Konoha, the wind brushing against my hair as I followed Rin as she led us into a small park, not too far from the academy. The sound of laughter filled the air as a few families played with their young children, their joyful shouts blending with the rustling leaves. 

Rin takes a seat on one of the swings, her gaze following the families as they play with their young children. I settle onto the swing beside her, the quiet creak of the chains the only sound between us for a moment.

"Sorry about this morning, Y/N. Kakashi isn't usually this cold," Rin said softly, her eyes still fixed on the children playing in the distance. "He might be quiet, but he's been through a lot. I hope you find it in you not to hate him. He's just... complicated."

"I might not know him very well, but he doesn't seem like someone who would hate me for no reason," I said, glancing over at Rin. "I'm sure he has his troubles he's dealing with."

"Troubles might not be enough to label it," Rin responded quietly, her voice carrying a hint of sadness. She looked down at her hands, gripping the swing's chains a little tighter. "Kakashi's been through more than most. Loss, guilt... it weighs on him in ways he doesn't always show. But deep down, he's a good person. He just... keeps his distance to protect himself.

He lost his father when we were in the academy and since then he's become fiercely committed to all shinobi laws. It's almost like he believes that being committed to the rules is the only way to avoid the kind of pain he's been through. Ever since Sakumo's death, Kakashi has carried that burden with him."

"Sakumo..." I muttered under my breath, "Is that Kakashi's father? Was he a shinobi?"

"Sakumo was one of the most revered shinobi of the Leaf. They said his skill rivaled that of the three legendary Sannin... our village's very own White Fang of the Leaf. He chose to abandon a mission to save his comrades, and despite his strength, the village turned on him for that decision." Rin's voice wavered slightly as she continued. "He was disgraced, and it broke him. In the end, he couldn't bear the weight of the shame and took his own life."

My heart begins to race at Rin's words. My final job within the Byakuya was to ambush the Konoha ninjas to prevent them from discovering our hideout. The same Konoha nin led by the White Fang of the Leaf. My actions were directly responsible for forcing Sakumo to abandon his mission and risk everything to save his comrades. My actions directly led to the village turning on him. My actions directly led to his death.

My grip on the swing's chains falters and begins to shake. Running from my sins, my crimes, and the Byakuya—none of it is enough to erase the fact that I am nothing but a criminal. And here I am, enjoying the peace of Konoha whilst those around me suffer from my deceit and sins.

The guilt and shame of my sins hangs around my neck like a noose, tightening with each day spent here in Konoha.

"Kakashi recently became jounin, and for his first mission as captain, we were deployed to the Village Hidden by the Grass to destroy Kannabi Bridge," Rin said, pulling me out of my thoughts. "It was a crucial mission, one that would cut off enemy supply lines and help turn the tide of the war. Kakashi led the team, but the mission took a heavy toll on all of us. We tragically lost one of our teammates, our friend Obito. And Kakashi carries that guilt with him every day.

"Oh Rin, I'm so sorry for your loss," I whisper, my voice barely audible.

"Thank you Y/N," Rin softly chuckled, "Anyways enough of all the sad talk. How has Konoha been treating you? Have you managed to make friends?"

"To be honest with you, the first few people I met were Akira and Shisui," I replied, a smile forming on my lips, "I got extremely lucky to be put on a team with them. I wasn't in the academy long enough to make any other friends."

"You should meet my friends, I'm sure that they will love you!" Rin said with excitement as she jumps out of her swing, "In fact, I'm hosting a little sleepover with them tomorrow. You should totally join us."

Should I accept this offer? Do I deserve moments of normalcy after a life of criminality? My actions so far have only served to hurt everyone around me.

"That sounds wonderful Rin, but are you sure you want me there?" I asked sheepishly.

"Don't be silly, of course I do!"

"Thank you for meeting with me today," The Hokage announces as he watches the three shoinobi kneel before him, "Kushina, Shisui... please share the recent mission details with Kakashi."

The three shinobi rise as Kushina takes the lead to explain the discoveries of Team Two's recent mission.

"On our return from our mission, Team Two was ambushed with a specific target in mind. Two individuals attacked our team separating me and Shisui from Akira and Y/N. The two of us retired and jumped back into the surrounding trees to observe their aims," Kushina said as she glanced at Shisui.

"The kunoichi bore a headband from the Village Hidden by the Rock and the taller shinobi named Cash bore a headband from the Sand Village. Both with a line through them," Shisui added with a sombre look painted across his face.

"From your description, they sound like they rouge ninja... continue," The Hokage interrupts.

"Their first attack rendered Akira immobile as they aimed for their true target, Y/N Uzumaki," Kushina stated, the realisation weighing heavy on her throat. She struggles to admit to herself that one of her dear students is being hunted by rouge ninja's, clouding her judgement about Y/N.

"They addressed Y/N as Princess and Kunoichi Thirteen. They were persistent in checking for 'an ID' on the nape of her neck, to which they found nothing," Kushina added, "The rouge ninja fled the scene after Shisui and I emerged from the trees."

"When we questioned Y/N about the interaction, she claimed to be in shock and unware of what was said to her."

"I see," the Hokage said, his voice heavy with the weight of realization. "It is clear that this ambush was not aimed at the Nine-Tails Jinchūriki nor the Uchiha prowess, but rather at Y/N Uzumaki. Someone from her past is after her." He took a deep sigh, the implications settling in. "We must prepare accordingly. This is no ordinary threat."

"Kakashi Hatake, I am aware that the scars of Kannabi Bridge have yet to heal," the Hokage began, his tone grave.

"However, I ask that you investigate the Village Hidden by the Grass. It's the only neutral territory bordering us that hasn't been completely destroyed, and it may hold the answers we need. I would like you to pursue this lead regarding Kunoichi Thirteen."

"Understood," Kakashi responded, his face as indifferent as ever. However, deep down he cannot help but reject Y/N Uzumaki in her entirety.

'She is a fugitive of an unknown past, with many shinobi after her. Her very existence threatens our shinobi law,' he thinks to himself as he accepts this mission.

"Kushina, Shisui, please keep a keen eye on Y/N Uzumaki," the Hokage instructed, his voice firm. "The only reason she walks free here in Konoha is due to our diplomatic ties with the Uzumaki Clan—ties that, I admit, Konoha has failed to properly maintain.

Regardless, if she threatens the safety of this village, she will be dealt with accordingly. We cannot afford to overlook any danger, no matter the bloodline."

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Kakashi is so suspicious of Y/N as he stubbornly clings to the shinobi law. And it isn't just him. Since her arrival, the Hokage has his eye on the Uzumaki, unable to shake the mystery behind her identity. 

Although Konoha welcomes Y/N, the guilt continues to build as the death of Sakumo stains Y/N's hands. A deep red sin that she'll never be able to cleanse from her soul.

What is your favourite thing about Shisui? For me, its his hair and his lil smile oh and the fact that he's so humble! Also I hate second year uni LOL. 

Loving you always, 

Suri  

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter ten - missions

chapter nine | chapter eleven

Genin: the ranking has two very different meanings.

Back in Kirigakure, only those who emerged victorious in killing their comrades were made genin. And even then, the genin were overworked with missions beyond their calibre.

But here in Konoha, genin life was much different. After making genin a week ago, Team Two have completed an overall 15 missions, all being D-rank and C-rank of course.

You'd think that especially during a war, the village would need more manpower to complete more of the important missions, but that wasn't the case when our team was inundated with 'missions' ranging from dog-sitting, grocery shopping and watering a civilian's garden.

Furthermore, for some reason, Kushina sensei hasn't been leading any of our missions as of late. She named Shisui as team captain during her absence. Perhaps the village needs all the jounin to be completing the more pressing missions, leaving us genin with the more boring of the lot.

Finally, Team Two received a mission with Kushina Sensei and was probably the most exciting mission we've had so far. Although it was a C-rank mission, it did require us to move out of the village. We had to travel to Sunagakure to give the Kazekage a scroll.

"Honestly, when we were told we had to go to Suna for this mission I got so excited. But there's nothing exciting about 500 miles of sand." Akira sighed, as we jumped through the trees, returning home after the mission.

"At least we were able to get out of the village for a while," Kushina replied.

I quickly noticed Shisui slowly becoming more and more retired and isolated. He hasn't said a word for a while now and it was becoming more and more unsettling by the minute. Sensei even picked up on his strange behaviour, before taking a deep breath as she retired to the same expression Shisui had plastered over his face.

I haven't known him for long, but it doesn't take much to notice his irrational behaviour. I quickly turned around to face him, and I sent him a small smile to see if he was okay, yet his same stoic expression never faltered one bit.

That's when it dawned on me. Two shinobi were ahead of us, waiting in the trees. I scanned the branches, my senses on high alert. They were skilled—their large chakra stores betrayed their presence. But I could feel them, the weight of their killing intent pressing against my mind like a cold, dark tide.

"Who pissed in your milk, Shisui? Lighten up, will you? I'm starting to think you're dead." Akira chuckled.

"30 km ahead north-east." Was all Shisui said as we continued to jump through the dense trees.

Sharp reflexes, Uchiha. I thought to myself.

"2 ninjas are waiting for us ahead," Kushina said, pulling out a kunai. Judging from their chakra stores, they were quite powerful too.

We made our way to where the ninjas were supposed to be, kunai in hand, ready for an attack.

But they were nowhere to be seen. Or so I thought.

An earth-style jutsu soon ripped through the earth separating Shisui and Sensei from me and Akira, before a series of water-style jutsus were thrown our way. I looked around to see if my teammates were okay. Akira seemed fine; well, he was sturuggled to get up from the impact of the attack.

On the other hand, Shisui was nowhere to be seen.

I rose to my feet, realising one of the ninjas had coated their arm with an earth-style jutsu and was quickly charging towards me. I must use lightning to nullify the attack.

"Lightning style: Jolt clamp!" I shouted, running straight to the ninja as my jutsu paralysed the surrounding muscles in her arm. The ninja stumbled back, gripping her limp limb before shouting out to me.

"Would you look at that? Princess has left us for the Leaf," the taller of the two shinobi retorts, as he walks towards me.

Shit, shit, shit.

They're after me. I need to dispose of them fast before the others find out.

"You have the wrong person! I have no idea what you're talking about." I spat, holding my kunai in a defensive stance.

"Stop hiding Kunoichi Thirteen," the other ninja started to rant, before she turned to her partner, "Cash, check her ID."

The other ninja came behind me, pinning my wrists to my back using one hand, the other pulling back my hair as he examined my neck. "There's nothing there."

Shit, shit, shit. I need to shut them up fast.

I slammed my head to meet the ninja's nose, causing him to loosen his grip on my hair. Just as I was preparing for an attack, Shisui popped out of the trees he was hiding in.

About time, stupid Uchiha.

"Fire style: Fireball jutsu!"

The two ninjas jumped back to dodge his attack. But after seeing a glimpse of his blaring sharingan, they immediately started to back away.

"It's... it's Shisui of the body flicker." They stammered as they turned away, afraid to take on his visual prowess.

"It looks like they're gone now," Shisui said, offering a hand to Akira as Kushina turned to me.

"Sorry for not helping sooner, I needed to find out who they were after," Kushina stated as she deadpanned her gaze towards me, "and they made that pretty clear."

"What did they want from you Y/N?"

"I'm sure they mistook me for someone else. Honestly, I was so shaken up, I didn't even register what they said to me." I muttered, rubbing the back of my neck.

"Did they hurt you?" Kushina asked, holding my face between her hands inspecting for any wounds.

"I think I'm okay," I replied, "I'm sorry I just didn't expect it."

"Many more of our missions may end up being like this, we need to be alert at all times," Shisui said before we started making our way back to the leaf.

The more I play the role of an innocent Y/N Uzumaki, who's estranged from her family, the more pressure I'm under. It won't be long until more shinobi from The Byakua try to come get me. Even worse, what if the masked man and Zetsu chase after me?

I need to wrap up my business here in the Leaf, before I am found out.

"I hate having missions and hospital shifts on the same day. I never get a break, do I?" Akira whined as we finally reached Konoha.

"You signed up for this Bakakira, stop complaining." Shisui retorted, earning a moan from him.

"Shisui, can you come with me to fill out the mission report? It'll give you good practise for when you become jounin." Kushina said, giving him the returning scroll from Sunagakure as they flickered to the Hokage tower.

"Want me to walk you to the hospital?" I asked as I turned to Akira.

"Yeah sure."

We walked through the evening streets of Konoha, enjoying the tranquillity of the air around us. The fresh scent of ramen wafted through the air, mingling with the faint aroma of the cherry blossoms which lined the streets. We watched as laughter echoed from the children leaving the academy, weaving between the adults excited from a day of adventure.

"Hey Akira," I ask, breaking the comfortable silence between us.

Ever since I met Akira, one thought has always lingered in the back of my mind, a thought that grew with each day, fuelled by curiosity.

"Why do you work so hard to become a medic, Akira?"

"In all honesty, I never wanted to become a medic," Akira replies, "Actually, I was on track to graduating with Shisui and our other friend Itsuki years ago. We all agreed to graduate early, get put on the same team and become an unstoppable trio. But that year, my father tragically passed away on a mission."

"Oh, I'm so sorry for bringing this up Akira. I'm sorry for your loss," I admitted apologetically, fumbling to change the subject from something so painful.

"Thank you, but it was many years ago. I've had my time to grieve," Akira said, his voice steady yet tinged with a quiet sadness. He glanced at me with a comforting gaze, his eyes soft but resolute, as if he was reassuring me as much as himself.

"You see, he was a medic, a prideful one at that. But during one fateful mission, the entire team wound up critically injured before they could ultimately finish the mission. My father just couldn't let it go.

Shinobi rule no. 103, "No medic shall ever die until they are the last of their platoon". But that meant nothing to my father. He sacrificed his life to make sure that the mission was completed, and he depleted the very last of his chakra to heal his comrades."

His words hung in the air between us, carrying the unspoken memories of a time that had shaped him into the person he was now.

"The news of his death shook me to my core. I knew he was an exceptional shinobi of a high ranking. I guess it never occurred to me that my father could one day be killed on a mission. I started to lose all hope in the shinobi system... everything seemed so pointless. What was the point in going to the academy, training to become a shinobi only to be eventually killed one day?

I stopped going to my classes in the academy, gave up on my training and spent my days wasting my time at home.

It wasn't until my father's funeral that my whole outlook on the shinobi system changed."

Rain relentlessly poured from the dark clouds rolling in. The trees surrounding the cemetery stood tall and still, their leaves barely rustling in the gentle breeze, as if nature itself was holding its breath in respect.

"Why? Why did he have to die?" Akira screamed into the distance; the weight of his grief was palpable, bearing down on him like a physical force. His fists clenched tightly at his sides as tears streamed down his face.

"Akira hold your head up high," The Hokage said, his voice firm yet gentle, as he placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Why? Why should I? My father is dead because of this stupid shinobi system," Akira yelled, as anger replaced his tear-filled gaze. His balled fists shook from the intensity of his emotion.

"My dad is dead, and I'm supposed to just accept that? Accept that this is the fate of any shinobi. How long will it be until it's my mom I have to bury? Or my brother?" Akira's voice cracked as he spoke, the thought of losing more of his family becoming too much to bear.

"I know the pain is overwhelming. I too have lost those I held dear to me," The Hokage reassured, "But you must find the strength within you to rise above it. Your father was a very skilled member of my guard. In fact, his will of fire inspired me during the warring period after the Second Great Shinobi War.

He believed that sacrifice was necessary to guarantee prosperity for our future generations. Like how the cherry blossom must shed its old petals for new ones to bloom. Don't you see Akira? His will of fire resides in you. The most honourable act you can do is to not let his name be forgotten in vain. Honour his name and his work Akira."

"And so, becoming a medic is my way of honouring his memory. I suppose my reason isn't very creative and I do complain a lot about the shifts and the amount of work tha-"

"I think that's very admirable, Akira-kun," I interrupted gently, my voice cutting through the tension that had thickened the air. The words hung in the air between us, soft and filled with sincerity. I knew it couldn't erase the hurt that came with losing his father, "You carry his spirit with you Akira, I'm sure he's very proud of you."

Akira's gaze flickered to a vulnerable, raw expression as he reconciled with the weight of my words and the grief in his heart.

"Thanks Y/N. I really appreciate it." Akira smiled

"Anyways, enjoy your shift Bakakira!" I chuckled as we made our way to the hospital entrance.

"You have a way of ruining these moments, you know!"

"You'll live!"

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Akira's reasons for becoming a medic are so noble! he's so adorable. The time is ticking, Y/N's past continues to haunt her every minute she spends in Konoha.

Anyways, I went back to university last week and i'm already drowning in work help me. Sometimes I think that making this story an YN story was such a dumb decision.

But other than that, how are you? please tell me anything I'm so deprived of human contact.

Loving you always,

Suri

[luv-kakashi]

One of us is dead

chapter nine - police force

chapter eight | chapter ten

Despite being a Genin-ranked ninja, the missions never seemed to end. From menial tasks like mowing the lawn to transporting peace treaties between nations, we were worked to the bone.

And by the grace of Kami, we finally had a day off. Well, it was more that we were a member down. Shisui has been absent for the past few days as he prepared for his Jounin exam, leaving Team Two temporarily suspended.

I wandered through the streets of Konoha, the cool breeze ruffling my hair as it swayed in the wind. The scent of soy and miso filtered through the air as I walked past Ichiraku Ramen, civilians filtered in and out of the markets scattered across the street and the laughter of children echoed throughout the streets as they left the Academy.

Despite the noise of the bustling atmosphere, something small and muffled caught my attention—a soft, pitiful cry from a nearby alleyway.

I stopped in my tracks, narrowing my eyes as I scanned the crowd. There, tucked between two food stalls, was a little boy no older than four, clutching a small stuffed animal to his chest, his face streaked with tears.

Without thinking, I walked over, crouching down to meet his gaze. "Hey there," I said softly, trying not to startle him. "Are you okay?"

The boy looked up at me, sniffling, his big brown eyes wide with fear. "I-I can't find my mommy and daddy..." His voice trembled, breaking my heart.

I gave him a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, we'll find them. You're safe now, okay? What's your name?"

He wiped his nose on his sleeve and hiccupped. "Y-Yuuta."

"Well, Yuuta, my name is Y/N, and I promise I'll help you find your parents. Do you remember where you last saw them?"

He shook his head, fresh tears forming in his eyes. "N-no... I was chasing a butterfly, and then... I lost them."

I held out my hand to him, giving him a nod of encouragement. "It's alright, we'll look together. How about we start by walking around the main square? It's a good place to start."

Yuuta hesitated for a moment before taking my hand, his tiny fingers wrapping tightly around mine. We began walking slowly through the crowded streets, my senses on high alert for any frantic parents searching for their missing child.

As we moved, I felt the boy's grip loosen slightly, and he started to calm down, still clutching his stuffed animal but no longer sobbing. "You know, Yuuta," I said with a smile, "I used to get lost a lot too when I was younger. But guess what? I always found my way back."

He looked up at me with curious eyes. "Really?"

"Really." I grinned. "And you're going to find your way back too. I promise."

I scanned the crowd, hoping to spot someone who looked as anxious as Yuuta felt. Parents frantically searching for their child were hard to miss, but among the bustling shoppers and chatter, there was no sign of panic.

Yuuta stayed close to me, his small hand still clinging to mine. I tried to think of a way to keep him distracted. "So, what's your favourite game to play, Yuuta?"

He sniffled, glancing at his stuffed animal. "Ninja hide and seek."

I chuckled softly. "That's a good one! I bet you're really good at hiding, huh?"

Yuuta nodded, his tears beginning to dry up. "Yeah, but... I guess I wasn't good at finding today." His voice wavered a little, but there was a hint of a smile. I gently squeezed his hand as we walked through the market square.

Walking around the market square was proving to be a dead end, leaving me with no choice but to take the more logical route—seek help from Konoha's Military Police Force. Since starting my life here in Konoha, I had yet to witness a police shinobi in action or even catch a glimpse of them patrolling the streets. But could you really blame me? Most of my time was spent either on missions or with Sumire.

As I scanned the area, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of curiosity. The Military Police Force had always seemed like a mysterious entity to me, an arm of the village's security I knew little about. Their presence was constant but subtle, and they rarely crossed paths with us Genin unless something serious was happening.

With Yuuta's small hand gripping mine, we began our trek toward the Uchiha Clan Compound, where Konoha's Military Police Force was stationed. During my tour of the village, I remembered Kushina explaining how the peace within Konoha is maintained by the Military Police Force, which is run by the Uchiha Clan.

The streets of Konoha bustled with their usual energy, vendors shouting out prices, and the faint aroma of freshly grilled skewers filling the air. Despite the cheerful atmosphere, Yuuta remained quiet, his little face scrunched up in worry as he occasionally glanced up at me.

"You know," I said, hoping to break the silence, "the Uchiha Clan Compound is actually one of the most important places in Konoha. It's where the Military Police Force works. They help keep the village safe."

Yuuta looked up at me, his curiosity piqued. "Do you think they'll find my parents?"

"I'm sure they will," I said confidently, giving him a reassuring smile. "They're really good at what they do. And besides, you've got me to help you."

As we walked further away from the busy market, the path toward the Uchiha district grew quieter. As I approached the Uchiha Clan compound, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. Nestled in the outskirts of the village, it was like stepping into another world, far removed from the bustling streets of Konoha. The towering stone walls gave way to a serene and meticulously maintained courtyard, where delicate cherry blossoms drifted down from trees that lined the path, their pale pink petals dancing in the wind. It was breathtaking—almost untouched by the outside world, as though time slowed within these walls.

"I've never been this far into the village," Yuuta said, his wide eyes taking in the sight.

"Not many people have," I replied with a light chuckle. "But don't worry, the Uchiha are some of the kindest people you'll meet—well, most of them." I glanced down at him with a wink, trying to ease his nerves.

Walking through the cobbled streets, Yuuta and I were captivated by the beauty of the Uchiha clan compound. Small koi ponds dotted the area, their crystal-clear waters reflecting the brilliant colours of the flowers and lush greenery that seemed to envelop the compound.

The path led us to a large, imposing building that stood out from the rest. Its stone walls were sturdy and strong, radiating an air of discipline and order. A small sign in front read, "Konoha Military Police Force," etched with the Uchiha fan symbol prominently displayed above the entrance.

I hesitated for a moment, taking in the building's sheer presence. Though not as grand as the Hokage's office, it carried its own weight that spoke of its importance. Shinobi clad in dark uniforms moved in and out, their uniforms carrying the branding of the police force – a shuriken and the red and white fan of the Uchiha clan.

As I approached them, the clack of my heels echoed softly through the entrance, drawing the eyes of a couple of officers.

"Good afternoon," I called out to the officers, "This little guy here got separated from his parents. Do you think you can help us?"

Yuuta's grip on my hand tightened as one of the officers knelt down to him.

"Hey little one, do you happen to be Yuuta?" he asked, chuckling as he watched Yuuta hide behind my legs. Yuuta nodded shyly clutching his stuffed animal. We watched as the other officer headed into a room as a man and a woman rushed out scanning every corner, their faces etched with worry. The moment the woman's eyes locked on Yuuta, relief flooded her expression. She ran toward us, her arms outstretched.

"Mama!" Yuuta cried, letting go of my hand and running to her. His mother scooped him up, clutching him tightly as tears of relief rolled down her face. His father quickly joined them, wrapping his arms around them.

"Thank you!" the mother said breathlessly, looking at me with gratitude. "Thank you so much for finding him."

I smiled, stepping back as Yuuta was enveloped in the warmth of his parents' embrace. "It was my pleasure. I'm just glad he's safe."

"Thank you!" Yuuta yelled, waving me a sweet goodbye as the family left the building.

As I watched the family reunite, a strange warmth filled my chest, mingled with an aching emptiness. The sight of Yuuta's parents holding him so close, so full of love and relief, stirred something deep within me—something I hadn't let myself feel in a long time.

I gave them a small nod, trying to smile, but my thoughts were already drifting elsewhere. In another universe, maybe that kind of warmth and love would've been mine too. A universe where my clan wasn't consumed by anger, where my father's arms were open to welcome me home, not lost to a cycle of hatred and revenge.

My thoughts were cut short by a familiar voice echoing in the distance. Shisui stood by the window, deep in conversation with an older brown-haired officer. The sunlight filtered through the window casting a soft glow over them.

Shisui stood tall, the short breeze tousled his dark hair, the soft curls catching the light. His smile crinkled his eyes as he spoke, a stark contrast to his rough hands decorated with callouses and scars.

I stood there, frozen for a moment, my gaze lingering longer than it should have. Why am I staring so hard at him? The thought made my face flush and I quickly glanced away, my pulse suddenly loud in my ears. It was ridiculous. Shisui is my teammate, my friend and my senior, and I had more important things to worry about than this strange fluttering in my chest.

Shisui's eyes caught mine and a familiar smile spread across his face as he walked towards me.

"Y/N," he greeted, "What brings you here?"

"You know, just doing my civic duty as an upstanding citizen of Konoha," I said with a playful grin. "Finding missing kids, keeping Konoha safe... might just join the police force if you need a real hero on the team."

I gave him a dramatic wink, trying to act casual as possible whilst ignoring the sudden warmth on my cheeks. 'For the love of the First Hokage, pull it together' I cursed myself mentally.

"What are you doing here, Shisui?" I asked, hoping my voices didn't betray the nerves bubbling up inside me.

He flashed that easy grin of his, making my heart skip a beat. "Just talking clan business with Fugaku-san," he said, gesturing over his shoulder. "You know, nothing as heroic as rescuing lost kids, though. You're clearly the star here."

I rolled my eyes, but a smile tugged at my lips. "Clearly."

"Is this your first time visiting the Uchiha compound?" Shisui asked, tilting his head slightly. I watched as his soft curls shifted with the movement, catching the light just right.

"Uh, yeah... first time," I mumbled, my eyes momentarily betraying me as they lingered on the curve of his jawline. Kami, get a grip, Y/N.

"Are you free? I'd love to show you around!" Shisui offered with a grin, his eyes lighting up in that way that made it impossible to say no.

"Yeah," I nodded, feeling a small flutter in my chest. "I think I'd like that."

As we strolled through the Uchiha compound, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The place was so peaceful, so deeply connected to the clan's history, it seemed worlds away from the bustling streets of Konoha. Shisui walked beside me, hands casually tucked into his pockets, his soft curls shifting slightly in the breeze.

"This here," he said, stopping at a serene spot by a lake, "is the Reflection Lake. Pretty, right?"

"I come here a lot when I need to think. It helps put things into perspective," Shisui said with a smile, glancing at me. "I used to practice here as a kid, throwing kunai into the water, hoping one day I'd hit something."

I laughed. "Did you ever?"

"Once or twice," he winked, stepping closer to the edge, his hand lightly brushing mine as he did so. "I learned the fireball jutsu here."

We walked in comfortable silence for a few minutes before he led me further into the compound, pointing out the training grounds where a few younger Uchiha were sparring. Their movements were sharp, precise, and carried the weight of the clan's legacy.

"This is where I honed my Sharingan," Shisui said, a hint of pride in his voice. "I spent a lot of time here, pushing myself to the limit."

I smiled, watching the kids practice. "Shisui I think you need to go back and train some more, you're getting rusty."

Shisui raised an eyebrow at my comment, his lips curling into a playful smirk. "Oh, is that so?" he asked, feigning offense. "You think I'm getting rusty, huh? Big words from someone who just learned to throw a kunai properly last week."

I laughed, nudging him with my elbow. "Hey, I'm just saying, a little extra training wouldn't hurt. You know, to keep up with someone of my skill level."

"Your skill level?" Shisui chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "You know I outrank you, Uzumaki? When's the sparring match? I'll show you just how 'rusty' I am."

I shrugged, pretending to be nonchalant. "Whenever you're ready, Uchiha. Just don't cry when I win."

Shisui grinned, his eyes narrowing playfully. "Challenge accepted. But when you lose, I'm expecting an apology... and maybe a dango for my troubles."

He suddenly grinned, tugging me by the wrist gently. "Come on, I've got something better to show you."

He led me to a secluded courtyard filled with cherry blossom trees, their petals falling gently around us. It was breathtaking—like stepping into another world.

"In the spring, this place is even more incredible," he said softly, "It's quiet, but in a good way. Sometimes I come here when I need to escape the noise."

I stood there for a moment, letting the beauty of the scene wash over me. It felt like we were in our own little bubble, far removed from the rest of the world. I glanced at Shisui, noticing the way his expression softened in the gentle light.

"This is amazing," I whispered, not wanting to break the spell.

"I'm glad you think so," he replied, turning toward me, his smile warm and genuine. We sat down on a small bench between the cherry blossom trees, watching the pink petals dance in the wind.

"Shisui...Why is the Uchiha Compound so far from the main village?"

Shisui paused, his playful demeanor shifting slightly as he looked around the compound. "Well, that's just how it's always been," he began, his tone thoughtful. "The Uchiha Clan's always been a little... separate from the rest of the village."

He scratched the back of his head, glancing over at me. "Some say it's for security. Others think it's because we've always been Konoha's police force, so it made sense to have our own space, away from all the hustle and bustle of the village."

I nodded, understanding but sensing there was more to it. "Does it ever bother you?"

Shisui smiled softly, though there was something deeper behind his eyes. "Sometimes. But it's home, you know? And besides," he added, his playful smirk returning, "we need the extra space to train—so we don't get too rusty."

I laughed, but the weight of his words lingered in the back of my mind. Shisui is a formidable shinobi, one that is fiercely loyal to his clan and the village, he wears that honour on his sleeve. The thought gnawed at me, an unshakable question I couldn't seem to bury. Shisui's unwavering loyalty to both his clan and the village had always been something I admired, but now it only deepened my confusion. I glanced at him, sitting beside me with that confident smile, so sure of himself and his place in the world.

But what would he do if he were in my shoes? If he had to make a choice between someone he loved and his duty?

Would he be able to leave Sumire behind, knowing the pain it would cause her? Would he look Kushina in the eye and break her trust?

I shook my head, trying to dispel the thoughts swirling in my mind. It was too much to think about, and it made my chest tighten with a sense of impending dread. What kind of person was I, tangled up in all this deception and guilt?

But what if he knew? What if he knew about the weight I carried, the secrets I kept? Would he still look at me the same way, with that easy smile and kind eyes?

Would he still care for me, if he knew what I was truly capable of?

“Shisui… If you had to choose between your clan and your village to protect, who would you save?”

Shisui paused mid-sentence, his smile faltering for just a second as he glanced at me, clearly taken aback by the suddenness of my question. He looked away, his eyes narrowing slightly as if weighing the gravity of the answer.

"That's a tough one, Y/N," he said quietly, his voice losing some of its usual lightness. "I'd like to say I'd find a way to protect both, to avoid making that choice altogether. But I know that's a bit of a cop-out, isn't it?"

"Choosing between my clan and my village... it's a decision which defines a shinobi. To protect what is precious, sacrifices must be made. And to make those sacrifices, seeing the bigger picture is essential to making the right choices," Shisui sighed, his expression clouded with thought.

Shisui gazed up at the cherry blossom tree above us, the light slowly filtering through the petals. "The one who fights from the shadows, not for personal gain but for the greater good... that is the true mark of a shinobi. Even if it means I have to make sacrifices."

He turned to me then, his eyes searching mine. "Why do you ask, Y/N? What's on your mind?"

His gaze was so sincere, so open, that I almost felt my throat tighten. How could someone carry so much responsibility and still be so selfless? How could he still look at me like that, with such concern and care, when I was drowning in my own secrets?

I forced a smile, trying to shake off the heaviness in my chest. "Just... curious, I guess," I said lightly, though my heart was anything but.

"Whatever is on your mind, don't let it all build up," Shisui said as he turned to face me. "Besides, a frown doesn't suit you Uzumaki," he chuckled as he flicked my forehead.

I winced playfully, rubbing my forehead where he flicked me. "Easy for you to say, Uchiha," I teased back, trying to force a smile. "You're always so annoyingly carefree."

Shisui raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Oh, I don't know about that. I just have a good distraction," he said, crossing his arms as he leaned closer. "But you, Y/N, you're carrying a storm behind those eyes."

I blinked, caught off guard by his sudden insight. Shisui always had a way of seeing right through me, and it was both comforting and unnerving at the same time.

"You know, you should quit being a shinobi and try being a mind reader instead," I joked weakly, trying to deflect.

He shook his head, his expression softening. "I'm serious, Y/N. I know life isn't always easy, but if you ever need to talk, I'm here. Even if it's just to flick you on the forehead again." He grinned, the corners of his eyes crinkling with genuine warmth.

I felt a lump in my throat, a wave of conflicting emotions washing over me. Here he was, offering comfort and support, and all I could think about was how much I didn't deserve it. Not with the secrets I was keeping, not with the Masked Man breathing down my neck.

"Thanks, Shisui," I managed to say, my voice quieter than I intended. "I'll try not to keep it all bottled up."

"Good," he said, reaching out to gently ruffle my hair. "Because the Y/N I know is too strong and too stubborn to let anything beat her down. And I'll keep reminding you of that until you believe it."

I laughed softly, feeling a small piece of the weight on my shoulders lift. "You're impossible, you know that?"

"Yep," he replied cheerfully. "Only for you, Uzumaki." He winked, and despite everything, I couldn't help but smile back.

.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Shisui has some game! I like to think that he's such a people person and that if there was someone he was interested in, he'd be a natural flirt. What do you think of Shisui's flirt game?

Until next time,

Suri

[luv-kakashi]

How to write smut ?

(@urfriendlywriter | req by @rbsstuff @yourlocalmerchgirl anyone under the appropriate age, please proceed with caution :') hope this helps guys! )

writing smut depends on each person's writing style but i think there's something so gut-wrenchingly beautiful about smut when it's not very graphic and vivid. like., would this turn on a reader more?

"he kissed her, pulling her body closer to him."

or this?

"His lips felt so familiar it hurt her heart. His breathing had become more strained; his muscles tensed. She let herself sink into his embrace as his hands flattened against her spine. He drew her closer."

(Before proceeding further, these are all "in my opinion" what I think would make it better. Apply parts of the advice you like and neglect the aspects you do not agree with it. Once again I'm not saying you have to follow a certain type of style to write smut! Creative freedom exists for a reason!)

One may like either the top or the bottom one better, but it totally depends on your writing to make it work. Neither is bad, but the second example is more flattering, talking literally. (Here is me an year after writing this post, i think, either is amazing, depending on the context. the type of book you're writing, your writing style and preferences!)

express one's sensory feelings, and the readers will automatically know what's happening.

writing, "her walls clenched against him, her breath hitching with his every thrust" is better than writing, "she was about to cum".

(edit: once again, hi, it's me. Either is amazing depending on ur writing style. Everything at the end is about taste.)

here are some vocabulary you can introduce in your writing:

whimpered, whispered, breathed lightly, stuttered, groaned, grunted, yearned, whined, ached, clenched, coaxed, cried out, heaved, hissed

shivering, shuddering, curling up against one's body, squirming, squirting, touching, teasing, taunting, guiding, kneeling, begging, pining, pinching, grinding,

swallowing, panting, sucking in a sharp breath, thrusting, moving gently, gripped, biting, quivering,

nibbling, tugging, pressing, licking, flicking, sucking, panting, gritting, exhaling in short breaths,

wet kisses, brushing soft kisses across their body (yk where), licking, sucking, teasing, tracing, tickling, bucking hips, forcing one on their knees

holding hips, guiding the one on top, moving aimlessly, mindlessly, sounds they make turn insanely beautiful, sinful to listen to

some adverbs to use: desperately, hurriedly, knowingly, teasingly, tauntingly, aimlessly, shamelessly, breathlessly, passionately, delicately, hungrily

he sighed with pleasure

her skin flushed

he shuddered when her body moved against his

he planted kisses along her jawline

her lips turned red, messy, kissed and flushed.

his hands were on his hair, pulling him.

light touches traveled down his back

words were coiled at his throat, coming out as broken sobs, wanting more

he arched his back, his breath quivering

her legs parted, sinking into the other's body, encircling around their waist.

+ mention the position, how they're being moved around---are they face down, kneeling, or standing, or on top or on bottom--it's really helpful to give a clear picture.

+ use lustful talk, slow seduction, teasing touches, erratic breathing, give the readers all while also giving them nothing. make them yearn but DO NOT PROLONG IT.

sources to refer to for more:

gesture that gets me on my knees !!

(more to comeee, check out my hot or kisses prompts on my master list!)

[luv-kakashi]

og kakashi truly was peak like this is a face card that will be talked about for generations to come..