#btb kakashi

[okamirayne]

Latching onto the ask of the previous asker to tell you that the KakashixGenma brainworm is still burrowed deep in my grey matter <3

I sometimes imagine how a talk between Shikamaru and/or Neji with Genma and/or Kakashi would go, especially when it comes to (homosexual) relationships between ninjas. I think Genma especially could provide really compelling insight for Shikamarus situation, seeing as he has been in... very similar ones, with Naoki and his fate. We all know how well he coped with that particular aspect of his life BUT it's still veeeeery interesting to think about for me. Their dynamics have so many parallels to me and I'm always like 👀

If circumstances were different and they could really open up to others, I think they all could get a lot from an heart to heart with each other.

I hope you're well Rayne! I'm really happy seeing you post, I love the writing quotes I see from you <3

BtB is still on my mind and I don't think it'll ever leave. I hope life treats you well and that you let yourself have the rest you need and deserve <33 Just know I'll be there when you publish writing again and I'll also be there in the meantime. Like a little German Gremlin in the corner. Totally normal, don't mind me.

I've discovered matcha latte for myself recently and the entire process of making it feels like self-care(tm)

Sending you aaaall the best wishes and good vibes, my friend 💜🍵 (my emoji keyboard has these on the "frequently used" tab bahaha)

Well hey there, dear Sunny Side Up! ☀ @sunlightrays

*toasts you with tea*

Latching onto the ask of the previous asker to tell you that the KakashixGenma brainworm is still burrowed deep in my grey matter <3

Ah yes, that worm is a wily little bastard, no?😆

I sometimes imagine how a talk between Shikamaru and/or Neji with Genma and/or Kakashi would go, especially when it comes to (homosexual) relationships between ninjas.

Oh damn. In the BtB-verse? That talk would possibly go something like this:

Shikamaru:

Neji:

Kakashi:

Genma (not appreciating Kakashi's bitch move of' take-the-wheel so I can' fuck-this-no-jutsu my way outta here'):

If circumstances were different and they could really open up to others, I think they all could get a lot from an heart to heart with each other.

This is true. As it happens, Genma would sooner deep-throat his senbons than cough up the vulnerability required for that conversation...but then, get him in a weak (or strong, depending on how you look at it) moment and he just might go there if the ungodly stars aligned.

As for Kakashi...yeah, I'm thinking he'd opt for completely severing his vocal chords. While he's way more likely to have an honest heart to heart with the younger generation than Genma, when it comes to the deeply private nature of Kakashi's own personal experiences with intimacy or love? Yeah. No. Even Genma is more likely to open that vein. And it wouldn't be willingly.

Shikamaru and Neji are more likely to talk to each other and address things more healthily, but they'd both struggle (especially Neji) with broaching that kind of topic with any senpai or sensei...that being said, Neji might not get a choice in the matter...Gai-sensei would get him in a mental and spiritual headlock and proceed to break him down psychologically through sheer force of Youthful Will, the Big Green Bastard of all things hot-blooded, including romance.😅

I hope you're well Rayne! I'm really happy seeing you post, I love the writing quotes I see from you <3

Ah! Thanks, sweetie. Appreciated. 🥰 Great to know! I'm happy to share the writing quotes and inspo as I come across it, hoping it'll resonate with others.

BtB is still on my mind and I don't think it'll ever leave. I hope life treats you well and that you let yourself have the rest you need and deserve <33

Thank you, Sunny sweetheart. Truly. 💜🫶🏼💜 I hope my response finds you in good health, heart, and head-space!

Just know I'll be there when you publish writing again and I'll also be there in the meantime. Like a little German Gremlin in the corner. Totally normal, don't mind me.

Your support is precious. Thank you! 🫶🏼 Ha! German Gremlin. Brilliant. We're none of us normal here, doncha know?! This Batshit Brit salutes you.

I've discovered matcha latte for myself recently and the entire process of making it feels like self-care(tm)

😍 Oh, my dear comrade in Tea Cups, I am delighted for you! Have you tried it with ceremonial or imperial grade matcha? It's a special green-velvet treat. Granted, not cheap. I save it for special occassions. 🍵

Sending you aaaall the best wishes and good vibes, my friend 💜🍵 (my emoji keyboard has these on the "frequently used" tab bahaha)

🥰 Absorbing them with hella-gratitude and sending the positive vibes and best wishes a'flowing right back at you, Sunny! Shine on, luv. 💜🍵☕️💜

[okamirayne]

Hi Rayne! Just wishing BtB-verse Genma a Happy Birthday! (っ◔◡◔)っ ❤ How's he spending the day? lol

Hello there, luv! Aw. Well. *glances into a room in her BtB headspace* How's he spending it? Uh...apparently...

GENMA: Apparently, I'm hanging with Gai to remind myself it could always be worse.

KAKASHI: He means he's attending a funeral—for his Youth.

GAI: *gasp* What's this? Genma, my hotblooded genin-day compadre. Count not the flames on the candle, but the eternal flame that burns WITHIN!!

GENMA: *seriously considers sticking his senbon in a plug socket*

😅 *closes the door on them* Apologies sweet Birthday-wishing Anon. Clearly Genma has a HHU scene coming up with Gai (which Kakashi just decided to gatecrash). Dearly Harassed BtB-verse Genma appreciates the love. 🫶🏼💖

[okamirayne]

*weeps and loves on Genma, hopes he doesn't kill her, and leaves him shochu and pink pill-shaped mochi and knows she's as bad as Anko* There bb!

😅😅😅

Why, how considerate, Anon...*slides them over to him*

Genma: Ah, sympathy for my devils? Not today, Satan.

*is proud* He's doing the whole good little reformed Goei Shotai (as far as I can presently foresee). Taking his pain raw nowadays. Straight. No chaser. The way Lady Luck intended. 😅 Poor, poor bastard.

Thanks for the giggle, Anon.

[okamirayne]

Happy New Year Rayne! 🥳 Re-reading HHU and just wondering…how does Kakashi get on with Waif? Or vice versa right? 😆 I know Kakashi prefers the k-9s to the kitties. Just for my own BtB head-canon bc it looked like Waif was pretty chill with Ibiki and Raido so wondering how the copy-nin faired! 😘

Heya Anon!

Happy New Year to you too, sweetie! 🙌🏼

...how does Kakashi get on with Waif? Or vice versa right?

Ha, yes, vice versa alright. Waif is not sold on Kakashi. Might have something (or everything) to do with the ninken company Kakashi keeps, or perhaps something to do with Waif’s weird but random territorial antics with Genma — that said, right you are re: Raidō.

Waif shares very well with Raidō and would probably attach himself permanently to the Namiashi if he wasn’t already masochistically taken with Genma — for whatever reason that is. 🤷🏻‍♀️ 😉

So yes. While the worst Raido and Ibiki get are cat hairs, Kakashi has a few bloody souvenirs from Waif — though to be fair, so does Genma. Solidarity.

Genma’s solution:

Attack back.

Kakashi’s solution:

Mists himself in cat-repellent…🍋 …which is preferable to smelling like dog.

As for Waif’s absurd level of ease and comfort around Ibiki? It’s a mystery to the world and an insufferable annoyance to Ibiki. 😉

Thanks for revisiting HHU despite its WIP status. 🙏🏼

[okamirayne]

Hi Rayne! So, you may have answered this before but just curious, which character do you most relate to in the BtB series? If you had to identify with one, who would you pick?

Hey Anon! Argh. 🤔 That’s tough. Right now, based purely on BtB portrayals…most likely it would be…

💜🩵🤍

[okamirayne]

OMG, Rayne, Rayne, Rayne! Firstly - HIII! I don't know if you'll remember this (was a long time back now - like quite a few years😅!) but do you still have/remember CC KAKASHI? DeviantArt days, bb! 🤣 Aaaah memories!!!

I was reading UtS and was on the chapter where Kakashi is stoned on his meds 🤣 and I was like 'OMG THIS REMINDS ME OF CC KAKASHI!'

Oh boi, I'm gonna feel sooo dumb if you don't remember this so ignore this ask if you're like wtf dude. Ha😅😅😅😅 *nervous af*

Anywaaaay! Had to just send this bc I've been laughing my ass off reminiscing on that craziness. xxx Kisses 🤣💗💗💗

Weeey!!! Heya dArt-Days Anon! 💜💜 So awesome to hear from you after all this time!

I don't know if you'll remember this (was a long time back now - like quite a few years😅!) but do you still have/remember CC KAKASHI?

OH. MY. GODS....

YOU BET YOUR ASS I DO!!!!!! 🤣🤣🤣

The Original Emoji:

*runs and tries to dig up her paintshop artwork version from the bowels of her old Sai files*

....20 mins later....

YES!!!!! HE LIVES!

CRACK COCAINE KAKASHI!!!!! 🤣🤣

*struggles to breathe* Oh sweet Josephine...some of those emojis back on dArt were utterly horrific and ABSOLUTELY BLOODY BRILLIANT...

Strike me down, but I still have the freaking bookmark I made, Memory-Lane Anon! 🤣🤣

Oh god damn, I love him. He shall live on forever. Absolute nutter.

Good Gods, I can't even begin to express how ridiculously hard I've laughed receiving this message from you. 🤣💜💜

THANK YOU. 💜Talk about a hilarious, insane, and most glorious trip down memory lane to the dArt days when my BtB insanity hadn't even peaked yet.

Thank you so, so, SO much for this ASK, you bloody awesome individual you. I am tickled all kinds of pink laughing my arse off over the fond and ridiculous memory of making this bookmark and sharing this insanity with the dArt crowd at the time.

Huge love and insane thanks for this golden ASK. 💜💜

[okamirayne]

😭💔❤️‍🔥

Kakashi and Genma by Eluminel

Erotic, embarrassing, uncontrollable sounds that drew Genma’s head back up, inviting the Shiranui’s lips to settle above the fluttering fabric of the mask. Again, that dangerous imitation, that too-close, too-personal graze of lips… that almost-but-not-quite-kiss… “Say it,” Genma husked, his voice sounding oddly hoarse. “Tell me how to touch you… tell me what you want… tell me what this is…” - Under these Scars by @okami-rayne ——————————————————————————————– @eluminel Loved this chapter, and you already know that Rayne~ This is the first time for me ever painting Kakashi this serious. I had an inner fight with myself to paint with or without his mask ( I destroyed the witout-mask-thing via Facebook with some friends because I’m stupid!, but in the end I also felt.. I don’t think I could do him justice. We don’t know his face ( even if I believe I know what he looks like since it’s not THAT hard to imagine, unless he had a scar or anything). But I choose the mask on, and since this moment excisted in Raynes Fanfiction I decided, mask on. Genma, I don’t know about him. In Raynes version he’s really broken, so that’s why he has the tired troubled face. But in the manga I can’t say apperance-wise he do not attract my creative eye BUT when I want to draw him, he’s gorgeous, AND I think he looks better than the manga makes him Also, Genma/Kakashi pairing is one of my favourites. So good. Give more room for Genma people, he’s freaking great~ Why it’s blue coloured. NO idea. I like blue. It feels calm to paint with blue, always painted with blue coloured pencils as a kid the most, and purple. So might be why. AND KAKASHI’S HAIR COULD JUST GO AND FUCK ITSELF GAAAAAAAAAAAARGH! Had major problems with it. Won’t change… (Angryface) Hope you like it Rayne sweetie and everyone else who stumbles upon this! Be nice;D (Longest freaking description I’ve ever made…)

[okamirayne]

Does Shikamaru know about the beef Shikaku had with Neji and that he's aware of their relationship?

How would Asuma react and/or feel about it if he had lived long enough to find out about their relationship?

I love Btb, btw. I'm so tempted to start a 3rd reread, but I'm swamped with assignments, so it's gonna have to wait😒😭

Hi there, Anon! 🫶🏼

Cheers for dropping by with your ASKS.

Does Shikamaru know about the beef Shikaku had with Neji and that he's aware of their relationship?

Yes, he's aware his father was not best pleased with Neji (to put it lightly). Neji had mentioned it whilst tripping opiate balls in Requiem, which put the issue on Shikamaru's radar. Post UtS, Shikamaru learns more about exactly how 'not best pleased' his dad was after Neji recounts, with grim amusement, the chilling chimera stunt that Shikaku pulled in the Akimichi Armoury.

As you can imagine, Shikamaru was less amused.

Yes, also, to the second part of that question; Shikamaru knows his father is aware of his involvement with Neji, which is both a relief and a stress.

How would Asuma react and/or feel about it if he had lived long enough to find out about their relationship?

Ooh! Well, Asuma would've been somewhat prepared, given the events in BtB when Shikamaru word-vomitted his stress everywhere and accidentally admitted to a mystery "he". Learning that this mystery "he" was in fact Hyūga Neji would've reassured Asuma. He respected Neji, and he'd have understood why he and Shikamaru made sense. That being said...

...Asuma would've processed it fully in private and maybe, if drunk enough, might've solicted Kakashi for one of his 'asking for a friend' talks, knowing full well Kakashi would've known who and what he was talking about...because Kakashi is annoyingly clued in when it comes to things Asuma doesn't want him to know.

I love Btb, btw. I'm so tempted to start a 3rd reread, but I'm swamped with assignments, so it's gonna have to wait😒😭

Ah, thank you for the BtB love, my dear. 💜🥰💜 Amazing to learn you're tempted to revisit the series! Hey, I totally get being swamped by the tidal demands of life, so no worries. Hope things ease up for you soon. Keep calm and carry on! ✌🏼

[okamirayne]

(1/2) thank you for all your answers!! I can't begin to tell you how many hangovers BtB has given me :D and now I have more questions: 1) when did Ino and Choji start to suspect the ShikaNeji? were they totally side eyeing him when he disappeared before (and after) the Hoteigu lunch? 🤣 2) what was Neji's reaction to Stupid Bird? (I assume they have met since he's now ventured into the Nara forest), 3) how did Shikamaru get Neji into the Nara residence after everything that has happened?

Pleasure, luv. 🥰 Thank you for your interest! I’ll do my best to answer, though I may withhold on account of 1) spoilers or 2) answers which are ‘still to be confirmed’ by the Dastardly Team…a.k.a the Sadistic Show-runners that conspire in my mental ‘BtB Plot-Bunny Den’ and presently look like this:

I’ll do my best as my Team holiday in Hiatus.

1) when did Ino and Choji start to suspect the ShikaNeji? were they totally side eyeing him when he disappeared before (and after) the Hoteigu lunch? 🤣

😆 I can confirm it’s post-UtS for sure, though Ino unknowingly gathers some hints during UtS that only come together for her later down the line; such as Kurayami’s words to her regarding Neji. That Shikamaru might be involved with Neji (let alone any male comrade) is so far off Team 10’s radar that it’s not something Ino or Chōji would initially ever suspect — especially when they assume Temari is the defending champion when it comes to Shikamaru’s baser or romantic interests (those Suna twins notwithstanding! 😅)

2) what was Neji's reaction to Stupid Bird? (I assume they have met since he's now ventured into the Nara forest)

To gaslight Shikamaru in evil solidarity. Initially, Neji pretended not to believe Stupid Bird existed, as Stupid Bird would always “vanish into the ether” any time Neji entered the Nara forest. This gaslighting game would aggravate the ungodly hell out of Shikamaru, much to Neji’s amusement.

3) how did Shikamaru get Neji into the Nara residence after everything that has happened?

Yoshino, funnily enough. She extended a practical dinner invite one evening. Shikamaru, Neji, and Team 7 were working late on war gaming strategies for upcoming missions related to the Akatsuki (before Pein attacked). Yoshino spotted them at Yakiniku Q and (remembering how Asuma’s poor bank account often haemorrhaged) took pity on Kakashi and Yamato’s wallets. Dinner invite was extended (insisted upon 😅). Neji couldn’t decline without offending Shikamaru’s mother, which he determined would be far more catastrophic than offending Shikamaru’s father (which is saying a lot).

As it happened, he needn’t have worried about Shikaku. When Neji rocked up with the rest of the group, Shikaku made no bones about it. This let Neji know the ‘you hurt my kid’ hatchet was truly buried.

[okamirayne]

Hello Hello!

Just a random ask.. do you have any inconsequential or random hc’s for characters that have almost no relevance in their overall lives? I’ll go first — I’ve always imagined that Neji developed a mild disgust/phobia of spiders ever since his fight with Kidomaru

Heya Anon! 💜

Just a random ask.. do you have any inconsequential or random hc’s for characters that have almost no relevance in their overall lives? I’ll go first — I’ve always imagined that Neji developed a mild disgust/phobia of spiders ever since his fight with Kidomaru

Oooh, that's a great question! And your example is solid. Wouldn't blame Neji thumbing his nose at the Eight Legged Freaks after his ordeal.

Hmm...I might need some liquid inspiration to answer this...

...argh, what's so annoying is that I tend to discover my hc's as I write the characters - does that make sense? It's really bizarre. You'd think that I'd have a tonne of head cannons just filed away, but what tends to happen is they drop into my headspace as I'm writing, rather than me actively thinking about them...I think maybe because 98% of my brain is engaged in plot most of the time (given how long BtB is), the character aspect (my favourite part, oddly enough) churns out based purely on organic in-the-moment writing and inspiration/instinct...which is probably why I love it so much, it's more intuitive than intellectual and way more fun.

Sorry, that in no way answers your question...

I'm thinking but....

Seriously...zilch...on demand, nada...

And yet, undoubtedly, I'm going to discover those head canons as I write. Some random examples below (some which obviously have significance), most of which have been disclosed already and discovered whilst writing, but give some good cases of BtB-verse HCs...if some could be called that?

how gift giving is one of Ino's biggest love languages

how Hiashi prefers Go to Shogi

how Raidō is a stickler for rules and enjoys sudoku

how Shikaku got his scars (Shuken)

how Kiba is ridiculously loyal once romantically attached despite his flirtatious and rascal-like behaviour

how Kakashi treasures his Team 7 mug decorated by his students before Sasuke defected

how Kakashi suffered from migraines due to the Sharingan

how Ino's old eating disorder issues were related to a critical and image-obsessed mother, and to Sakura rejecting her friendship as a kid because of Sasuke (leading Ino to believe she was always going to be in competition with other women and that female friendships are fragile)

how Sakura hates how much she loves Sasuke

Chōji allowing Ino to decorate him like a Christmas tree whenever she drags him into shopping sprees (she feeds him for it, which is a win-win)

Shikamaru requiring Chōji to do the thinking and the legwork when it comes to purchasing gifts for Ino

Asuma's cigarette brand is hard to get hold of

Genma is a whole head canon in himself - Halloween is important to him and not just because of pumpkin soup

Genma's issues with care homes - hints of his past as a kid

The significance to Neji of the words "every time" when he speaks them to Shikamaru

The importance of the words "I hear you" between Shikamaru and Asuma, and generally when Shikamaru says this, regardless of who he's speaking to

Neji's blind spot being an erogenous zone

Shikamaru being an utter sucker for head massages

Shikamaru loving Niji's coffee (second to none)

Genma being attracted to Kurenai (much to his supreme annoyance)

Inoichi having a wicked sweet-tooth, leading to him sneaking off to indulge in various confectionary (usually at the Akimichi household) so his wife didn't lose her shit (which led to her believing he might be having affairs)

Yoshino being incredibly sensitive to Shikamaru's security whilst in the home - the only control she feels she has over his safety given his life as a shinobi

Orochimaru's severely messed up behaviour with Sasuke and the oddness of his rules surrounding it (not sure you'd call this a head canon, as it's not something I enjoy entertaining - not that all head canon's are fun)

Kakashi somatising his emotions and his body carrying most of his pain

Kakashi preferring to live in a complex with older veteran shinobi rather than his peers (quieter, less intrusive)

Shiba (Kakashi's ninken) suffering bouts of claustrophobia

Ino, Inoichi, and Naoki's habit of cracking their thumbs

Ibiki's arthritis in his hands (worse now due to chakra sickness)

Kiba's nostalgic love/hate for silky thread grass

Shikaku's involvement with the Hyūga during his youth

Inoichi being a pretty-boy when younger and having to infiltrate a geisha house (where he met Sayuri, his wife)

Shikamaru harbouring mild paranoia of losing anything Ino buys him (the risk of ballistic head injury is very real)

The playful battle of Ino keeping a mental score of "you owe me" vs Shikamaru keeping a mental score of "I'll remember this"

Tenten messing with Neji by adding spice to his food

Argh, there are loads more; but those are the ones that just randomly came to mind whilst trying to kick my marbles around. There will undoubtedly be more to come, especially with characters such as Naruto and Sasuke, but also Neji, Shikakmaru and the rest.

Unfortunately (or fortunately) I can't always predict what they'll be so I apologise for not being able to reciprocate properly, Anon! But thank you for this ASK, it was fun to recall these. 💜🫶🏼💜

[okamirayne]

OMG <3 So about this bit ''I can confirm that they had been very successful at concealing it, although by the time Heaven Hold Us starts (post War), these surviving characters know for certain:...'' - is it possible that you could give us some more details about how they found out/figured it out? <3

Hey there, @barasai 🧡

Regarding details! I can tell you that all the characters are going to reveal how they found out/figured it out in the upcoming chapters of HHU. That said...

Hinata knew first, before anyone else, as she suspected back in BtB, though never explicitly stated it to Shikamaru. Though it was implied in Break to Breathe when Shikamaru was getting ready to chase after Neji again (after the Gentle Fist head-trauma the Hyuuga gave him 😅 )

BTB CHAPTER 36 EXCERPT: [...] "I…I said he needed someone to help pull him back, but…" Hinata trailed off, recovering with a frown. "But I didn't think it would cost this much." "There's always a price." Shikamaru shrugged, the nonchalance so forced it felt like hefting rocks on his shoulders. "I knew that when I got into this." "But it's not the same…" Hinata said, her eyes blinking doe-like. "It's different now." Shikamaru arched a brow. "Nothing's changed." No sooner had he said it than Hinata's gaze took on a quality of calm understanding that struck him numb quicker than any lick of chakra to his nerves ever could. "Yes it has…" she whispered. Fuck…

So, there was Hinata's moment of "gotcha". Though she had grace enough not to announce it or disclose it to anyone else throughout the rest of the series. Sakura didn't cotton on in that scene, as it was so far beyond the scope of possibility or credulity given the urgency of what was happening.

As for the others: Kakashi, Genma, Ibiki, Temari, Sai, Tsuno, and Choza.

Their knowledge will be revealed in HHU (at least that's what my plot bunnies are showing me 😅...it's almost Easter, the bunnies can't lie...right? 😆 Right.)

Thanks for the ASK, luv! And for your interest in the BtB madness. Love and appreciate the awesome support! 🫶🏼💜xxx

[okamirayne]

Hey! I absolutely adore btb and I’m so unbelievably excited to see more of your Shikaneji (the way you write them is so incredibly beautiful) and of the entire btb cast and world! I was wondering about your view on the Shikamaru x Neji relationship - please ignore this part of the ask if it’s spoilery - but in the btb world were they in as much of a relationship as they could’ve been (in a ninja world) when Neji died? I was also wondering what drew you to ShikaNeji - are they/were they your favourite Naruto ship or did you become intrigued by the idea of them and then start to write? What is it that drew you to them? The chemistry you build between them is so unbelievably intense that I now can’t picture either of them with anyone else in the series even with canon shikatema 😂 thank you thank you for writing this - from a forever loyal reader!

Hiya Anon! 💜

Thanks so much for dropping by to leave me this message/ASK.  A joy to hear from you!  🥰 Super chuffed that you have enjoyed the BtB series so far and I really appreciate your kind words regarding the ShikaNeji dynamic.

[…] in the btb world were they in as much of a relationship as they could’ve been (in a ninja world) when Neji died?

Not too much of a spoiler so no worries!  They were in a clandestine relationship, which, while challenging at times, wasn’t too difficult to achieve or maintain given ninja life.

Being stealthy and sneaky proved to be pretty handy transferable skills – which they both used to preserve their relationship.  With Neji’s Jōnin status and Shikamaru’s ‘unofficial Jōnin rank’ (given his intellectual prowess as military strategist etc.) they could spend a lot of time sequestered away together under the pretext of ‘work’, which allowed for a lot of their stolen moments.  

Between their duties and separate lives there was the ‘stolen moments’ middle ground in which they preserved their private relationship, both being extremely protective of it. What this extremely private approach might’ve meant for their relationship further down the line?

Ah, well…that’s a whole different story and potentially a problematic issue neither one of them ever really talked about or wanted to explore. There were more pressing things happening around them and Shikamaru hated future-tripping or overthinking things with Neji, hence his whole ‘this isn’t a thinking thing’ and Neji being the one thing he didn’t ‘have to figure out’. They lived moment-to-moment with each other, as they never knew when the next time would be given missions etc.

I was also wondering what drew you to ShikaNeji - are they/were they your favourite Naruto ship or did you become intrigued by the idea of them and then start to write? What is it that drew you to them?

Oooh, where to start? I had always loved Shikamaru’s character – and was always fond of Neji. I found his tragic background fascinating. That said, he was probably fourth in line. At the start the characters I was most engaged with were Kakashi, Shikamaru, and Itachi. 

Regarding ShikaNeji: funnily enough, it all started with a dream I had of Shikamaru running through the forest chasing someone (hence the start of BtB). I had no idea who he was chasing. But the more I reflected on the dream and considered pairing options, Neji immediately sprang to the forefront and it all just began to snowball from there. I started what I thought would be a one-shot, literally just to play around with the dream…and that turned into the first instalment…which then seemed to take on a life of its own and grew into the monster that was the BtB series. I never thought that’s the way it would go when I started writing…but I’m so grateful it did, and I’m so SO thankful to the reviewers and readers who engaged with it, as they gave me the steam to keep up with the bloody runaway train the story became.

The chemistry you build between them is so unbelievably intense that I now can’t picture either of them with anyone else in the series even with canon shikatema 😂 thank you thank you for writing this - from a forever loyal reader!

Aww, sweetheart, thank you!  💖 I’m thrilled you’ve enjoyed their dynamic so much as to have it override canon ships!  Thank you so much for reading and even more so for reaching out to share your support and love.  I appreciate you! 🙏🏼💜

[okamirayne]

I’m one of the people who have gotten really bad at commenting on fics I read. In the case or BtB it’s mostly because I can’t figure out how to comment in the FF.net app 🙈 (In other cases I’ve been scared off by being told my reactions and interpretations were wrong, both by writers and other commenters) However, that doesn’t excuse not commenting or writing you here, so I am sorry for my negligence.

Because I am still here, I’m still reading BtB like a religious text, and I still adore every last word. I, much to my own surprise, loved reading from Hiashi’s pov in a previous chapter; I’m so here for the whole mess that’s Sasuke and the SasuNaru…maelstrom; I desperately want to see where Kiba and Ino end up, how they solve their current situation (if they solve their current situation), and how they heal, individually and potentially together.

Even more desperately: I want Shikamaru’s grief. I cannot describe how much I love reading these dreamscape flashbacks. Getting these small insights into the hidden life they got to live for a little while, it’s incredible. Even more so because we know how it ended. For now, hopefully. Shikamaru watching Naruto, but refusing to see who Naruto was holding… He knows, of course he knows, but like he said in an earlier chapter: they won’t let him grieve. I want his grief, every last ugly heartbreaking bit of it! If you were to write out the scene when Neji’s death caught up to him (cause I’m not sure the moment he died would necessarily be it), my god… I’d pay good money to read that, for real.

And, finally, Genma. I said it before and I’ll say it again, I don’t know how he’s still standing. I want to read when Kakashi first walked away. And I want to read every last letter of them, hopefully, finding their way back to each other. Genma deserved his eight times up. I at least want to see him get his ninth time realised.

Hey sweetie! 💜💖

Thank you so much for carving out the time to leave this message. I'll always reiterate how much it means to receive feedback. I appreciate you doing so. 💖

[...] In other cases I’ve been scared off by being told my reactions and interpretations were wrong, both by writers and other commenters

I'm sorry to hear you felt scared off by responses to your feedback, but I'd definitely encourage you to ignore that. Christ, some of the stuff I've been told about my writing, the tropes I use, the themes I explore...🤦🏻‍♀️ Not everyone's cuppa chai. Even if interpretations were 'wrong' so to speak, the fact that you're engaging with that storyline and the characters is fantastic. I'm sorry if your engagement hasn't been warmly received by writers in the past - I find that baffling and not representative of writers on the whole, who are invariably hungry for engagement and grateful to receive it unless it's a troll comment or angry flame. Gently guiding a reader who may have misunderstood something is different to completely blasting them out the water and if that's been the case for you, then that's rubbish and I hope that me telling you how much your feedback matters will encourage you to share your thoughts with writers you read. You matter. Your engagement matters. What you love matters, as it's invariably what we love too. I'm so grateful you're still here, luv. And I thank you for showing up for me.🫶🏼 💖

I, much to my own surprise, loved reading from Hiashi’s pov in a previous chapter; I’m so here for the whole mess that’s Sasuke and the SasuNaru…maelstrom; I desperately want to see where Kiba and Ino end up, how they solve their current situation (if they solve their current situation), and how they heal, individually and potentially together.

So lovely to know you enjoyed reading from Hiashi's POV. I feel that there's room for a lot of nuance where Hiashi is concerned, rather than him being portrayed as a black-and-white, cold-hearted dinosaur for not changing the Hyūga clan. Digging into his brain (and chest cavity) was a must.

Kiba and Ino 🫶🏼😔

SasuNaru: Watch this space 😏

Even more desperately: I want Shikamaru’s grief. I cannot describe how much I love reading these dreamscape flashbacks. Getting these small insights into the hidden life they got to live for a little while, it’s incredible. Even more so because we know how it ended. For now, hopefully. Shikamaru watching Naruto, but refusing to see who Naruto was holding… He knows, of course he knows, but like he said in an earlier chapter: they won’t let him grieve. I want his grief, every last ugly heartbreaking bit of it!

Oddly enough, Shikamaru wants his grief too. And I'm on what emotional whumpster ride with you. *grabs medicinal liquids*

Funny how HHU began as another of my failed attempts to write a series of one-shots (BtB flashfowards/flashbacks) that just ended up as a timeline skip continuation of the BtB series....my point being the little flashbacks are good fun to write, and might've originally been posted as one-shots (if I wasn't so shit at them). I'm glad you're enjoying these memories.

If you were to write out the scene when Neji’s death caught up to him (cause I’m not sure the moment he died would necessarily be it), my god… I’d pay good money to read that, for real.

Ah damn, I'd need my Angsta guns locked and loaded for that. Ha! Aw. I'd also happily receive said good money to write it too, if only that were legal. 🤣

And, finally, Genma. I said it before and I’ll say it again, I don’t know how he’s still standing. I want to read when Kakashi first walked away. And I want to read every last letter of them, hopefully, finding their way back to each other. Genma deserved his eight times up. I at least want to see him get his ninth time realised.

Ah, Dearly Tortured Genma. 🥹💖 He's been through the absolute wringer. Kakashi walking away was a serious KO to his heart. Damn right you are, Genma definitely deserved his eight times up and I adore that you are invested in him having his "ninth time realised" (love that). I fully support this sentiment. Thankfully so does Raido, or else Genma might've been alone in the fallout...but credit where it's due, he's a tough bastard.

Thank you again, my lovely, for this wonderful feedback! It matters and it impacts. 💖🫶🏼💖

[okamirayne]

*a wild friend just phases into existence before you*

SO! 14 chapters into this masterpiece - I was surprised at my reading speed but then I remembered I once read 14 books in 7 days so I'm actually dallying right now - and can I just say I love how you connected the different groups into the same coherent narrative

Like, how you go from the kids to Kakashi and Genma to Ibiki and so on, it's very dynamic. I hate switching povs usually cuz they tend to slow shit down but you manage to keep everything feeling smooth and fluent. Quite the feat

Also, I adore the dynamic between Neji and Tenten. She deserves so much more than canon gave her and I get the vague feeling you agree xD

I'm also still very intrigued with how you write DID. Media portrayal tends to be very monotone if not malicious, you go for a very nuanced and appropriately unsettling portrayal that feels very respectful. Like, yeah it's terrifying, not because it immediately makes someone do evil shit (Criminal Minds!) but because changes in the mental landscape of a person are really fucking scary.

I'd also like to say you deserve a reward for managing the fucking 180 in the ShikaNeji dynamic compared to BtB without making it redundant. Lots of writers fall into the same patterns over and over until it becomes stale, you absolutely do not belong in that group

Uuuuuum, yeah that's it for now. I won't talk about That Man because I don't want to think about him *sniffs disdainfully* what a turd

So back to it I hop!

*the wild friend just drops onto the floor and keeps reading*

Dammit, Wild Friend...you're getting my Dastardly Twins emotional...

I'm so damned chuffed by this amazing feedback you're generously taking the time out to leave me...Thank You.

Also, I adore the dynamic between Neji and Tenten. She deserves so much more than canon gave her and I get the vague feeling you agree xD

Oh absolutely. I'd have loved to explore her more. I know Kishimoto's focus was predominantly on the male characters (understandably, I suppose, given the genre), which is why the women are interesting to flesh out. Especially secondary characters. I mean don't get me wrong, a deep-dive into Sakura would also be interesting. I touched on it a bit in HHU, but it's too easy to go down character rabbit holes. Must. Contain. Myself.

I'm also still very intrigued with how you write DID.

Thank you, Wild Friend. I hope it was respectfully written within the bounds of creative licence and storytelling. I had to do my homework surrounding this condition for an OC. No research is wasted.

I'd also like to say you deserve a reward for managing the fucking 180 in the ShikaNeji dynamic compared to BtB without making it redundant. Lots of writers fall into the same patterns over and over until it becomes stale, you absolutely do not belong in that group

I'm super happy you think so, Luv. Fortunately their own personal arcs help a lot with that...until of course....THE UNSPEAKABLE CANON HAPPENING...

[okamirayne]

*a wild friend calmly walks over and dumps a mountain of cried through tissues on the ground*

I blame you and I know you're not sorry! How dare you ruin my taste in romance, I can only truly enjoy the genre now if its as painful and raw and tender as these two

The end of Requiem? I just can't even, you beautiful beautiful monster you! The ache, the blood and sinew in the way they crave each other, the gentle flow of time when they're at peace together...*adds another tissue to the mountain*

I mean, everything about this series is good, like Kakashi and Genma and that world weary heaviness, or just Ino and Choji being good beans, the lead in to Kusagakure...but honey, I am as addicted to you ShikaNeji as they are to each other

And when I put it into perspective it gets even more heart-rending because they're just kids! Like, the depth of their feelings is already incredible on its own but when I think that these are teenagers...in a better world they'd be so fucking lucky to find each other that young...but in this one...

Puuh!

I'd also like to point out that one of my favourite recurring elements of this whole series is Shikamaru and Neji instinctively and simultaneously leaping to each other's protection. I live for stuff like this!

Also the fact that you found a way to get Neji hammered twice is absolutely incredible, I take my hat off and pull out snack and tea from it for you because that's some heavy magic

Anyway, onto the next!!!

*the wild friend dives into the mountain of tissues like Scrooge McDuck and doesn't emerge again*

*a wild friend calmly walks over and dumps a mountain of cried through tissues on the ground*

I blame you and I know you're not sorry!

Only because you shared that super sad dream with me and now we're both weighing the impact of the pain trains that we clearly enjoy driving...*sniffles subtly into teacup*

The end of Requiem?

DUDE! Like, how the hell are you reading this fast? I mean seriously, are you absorbing words through osmosis...I am...honestly astounded...but also, deeply touched that you're so engrossed in the BtB madness...wow....

I just can't even, you beautiful beautiful monster you!

I do try...

Now, if I step out of my amusement into the overgrown territory of warm fuzzy feels...I gotta say I'm a tangled hot mess -- as in, nuclear meltdown coloured by Hinata's complexion.

Thank you so much for what you shared here...I get hit all at once with the overwhelming gratitude and it's humbling and heartening in ways that result in me repeatedly failing to translate my feelings into words. Just know, it hits. And I feel it. For a long time.

It was a treat to be able to write that bond as you described it, and I'm so happy that you've connected with it and are impacted by it as a much as I was whilst writing it.

I'd also like to point out that one of my favourite recurring elements of this whole series is Shikamaru and Neji instinctively and simultaneously leaping to each other's protection. I live for stuff like this!

YES!

Also the fact that you found a way to get Neji hammered twice is absolutely incredible, I take my hat off and pull out snack and tea from it for you because that's some heavy magic

Ha! Well...just can't resist a drunken, drugged, or heavily dosed and dopey Hyuga! Shikamaru needs some of that himself, I think. *evil plot bunnies hatch*

Whoa. Godspeed, my dear Wild Friend. Though I don't think you need it at the rate you are powering through those chapters...bloody hell, what are you running on? DO TELL ALL.

*leaves out tea, treats, tissues and a bucket of grateful tears* 💜💜💜💜💜💜

[okamirayne]

Hello, my angel of words! Here I am yet again (told you I'd be back hehe), this time with a shorter ASK.

Pretty sure Kakashi and Genma have decided to turn my brain into their permanent residence and BtB has given me a burst of writing-motivation.

My own original story is still just vibes and nothing else (with a few loose plot points that probably are the results of loose screws in my head... 😂) and I can't for the life of me figure out what the hell is happening in there yet.

There's a few scenes containing Genma and Kakashi that my brain came up with though and so I was wondering the following thing:

Are you okay with people writing their own little stories set in the BtB universe? Basically fanfiction of fanfiction, if you will 🤔

Me personally, I'd probably just use it to get some practice in (god do I need it 😂) and wouldn't publish it anywhere

I hope you're doing well 💙 Also, I gotta know, what's your favorite kind of tea? 👀

Aw! Hello, my lovely! 💜 Always a pleasure, @sunlightrays. 🥰🩵

Pretty sure Kakashi and Genma have decided to turn my brain into their permanent residence and BtB has given me a burst of writing-motivation.

😆 Glad to hear it! No freeloading for those two. House rules! Raidō did attempt to teach (beat into) Genma some semblance of tenancy decorum. 😉

My own original story is still just vibes and nothing else (with a few loose plot points that probably are the results of loose screws in my head... ) and I can't for the life of me figure out what the hell is happening in there yet.

Ah! All good and great things in their time, my fellow wordsmith! May it all percolate deliciously. I hope that it comes together in that magical way when Time and Flow do their alchemical dance. 😍

Wey! All those loose screws are good! I’m convinced. 😆 No creative chaos should be sane or contained! ✨

Are you okay with people writing their own little stories set in the BtB universe? Basically fanfiction of fanfiction, if you will. Me personally, I'd probably just use it to get some practice in (god do I need it) and wouldn't publish it anywhere

Meta-fanfic! I shall re-direct you to my answer for this question which resides in this post, sweetheart. 👍🏼

I hope you're doing well.

Why yes…just randomly screaming from my hellpit at my muses…you know…

Or staring into my own cleaved brainpan like..

Yep! I’m Happy to report that I’m still bug-fuck nuts and routinely courting madness, so the End Days are not yet upon us 😆.

Also, I gotta know, what's your favorite kind of tea?

*addict-twitching grin* Oh my…just the one all-time fav? I enjoy different brews for different levels of sorcery. Being a homegrown Brit with mixed heritage, I oscillate a bit. But my everyday go-to cuppa is a UK black tea brand called YORKSHIRE TEA.

Very popular here. It’s a good strong brew. My favourite overall (which I practically inhale 99% of the time) has to be masala chai (and here comes my Eastern roots) which can be made in various different ways according to spice-preference. For convenience, I blasphemously use a pre-ground spice combo that I shove into the Yorkshire Tea. That’s my everyday cuppa ☕️🥰☕️

I’m also a huge fan of ceremonial Matcha 🍵 🤩 And, on occasion, I enjoy a good Genmaicha. ☕️

Thanks for the ASK(s), my luv! I wish you inspiration a’plenty for your original works, with rampant and most randy plot bunnies 😆💜✨