Mizukage Tower.

[Apple]

Despite the sense of disorientation that I was feeling, as such potent chakra permeated my system it brought me back from the brink that I'd been sent to, allowing me to notice just what was happening. All those months ago wherein I'd promised myself that it wouldn't happen again - that I wouldn't dare prey on another living soul aside from Kouketsu. But now I lay crumpled on the floor, I simply looked at the Mizukage with a somewhat ashamed expression, despite the fact that he responded much better to the process than Esei had. But then again, it was only expected given the massive difference in chakra between both. I could still feel the sting of his chakra rife in my body, my hands shaky, and my breath even more so. Blonde hair poured on to the floor, caressing the floor of the office with its soft embrace as I lay so close to its surface. Moments of silence passed and I watched Akira as he stretched his hands, but what he said surprised me. I hadn't expected him to understand, yet alone agree to what I'd desperately requested from him. And yet he uttered not words of scrutiny or anger in regards to what had happened -- but instead, an entertained laugh and a gentle sentence, reflecting on how tightly my hands had grasped on to his during the process, but I daren't show such surprise, and instead I swallowed the amalgamated spit in my throat, and gazed back up at him, my expression appearing as if it was considerably more.. sober than it had been previously. Whilst I didn't look that much more refreshed or awake in response to the siphoned chakra -- where it came to my internal feelings, I was placed at ease due to the disappearance of the suffocating hands around my neck that such an addiction had created, and I could finally breathe. But where he was concerned, he confirmed that he felt fine, and I uttered a soft sigh of relief.

His warning in regards to his chakra and its potency due to the aspect of it being mixed with that of the bijuu that his body harbored had fallen on deaf ears, and I now paid for not heeding his warning, although -- it wasn't the worst that I'd been, but by far it was one of the most uncomfortable. Although side-effects could range widely, I, quite literally, felt sick, above all. Above the tiredness in my bones, above the slow thumping that had begun to echo painfully in my head, and above the fatigue that run through me. However, despite the comfort that he'd shown, I couldn't allow such an unfortunate event to become widely known around the world -- I couldn't let anyone know. I'd already pushed the boundaries with Esei, but with his knowledge sworn to secrecy, and with him being one of my most dependable shinobi, I knew that I could trust him. Feeling my arms becoming lifted, I turned my gaze back to the man before me, only to see that he was carefully picking me up from the position I'd had to sink to.

"..Akira -- You can't tell anyone."

It was a solemn request - perhaps more than my last had been. Through tear-stained eyes I now stood, my form flinching instantaneously in response to the gentle pat of his hands, although -- I allowed him that much. Having embraced the burden that hunger brought upon me, I'd inadvertently quelled its raging storm by hunting none other than Akira. And with he in understanding of not only the hidden weakness that my reputation had been tainted with, but of the paternity of my child, there was too much at risk. Perhaps he would tell people; perhaps he would tell everybody. But at that point, I didn't doubt that it would be Kouketsu who would intervene for the sake of preventing any backlash to our Yuuchiro. I was ready to face anything if it meant protecting the two of them -- but I couldn't see them getting hurt. Whilst I'd known of Akira's work with Kouketsu during the second world war, how trustworthy he was would be judged from this point on, with he having been given a generous amount of classified information within a single meeting. Perhaps coming here was a mistake; I should have listened to Esei. I couldn't possibly leave here knowing what he could possibly do now that he knew too much. Not fearing for my life, I instead feared for that of my family. Allowing myself to drop in to the bench that he'd previously been sitting in, I chose to rest for a few meager moments to try and make sure that my balance was fully regained before getting up and attempting to move about once more. Soft, yet at the same time heavy breaths marked my presence in the room, my eyes now instead focused upwards towards the white-haired giant, my own form leaning against the bench I was sat upon.

"..About this, about my child -- no-one.""

My tone was painfully hushed, and I felt weak to have to ask him.

"..My people have been informed who his father is -" I paused, unsure of how to continue, my mouth slightly open as I tried to correctly voice my thoughts. Perhaps Akira believed my great reveal to Kusagakure to be the work of an idiot; but with no indication of what the child would be born as; who it would look like, I figured it best to confront such truths instead of waiting and allowing them to creep up at a later date in a blazing inferno of feelings. "- It's only a matter of time now until word spreads to other villages." I'd considerably gathered my bearings from the shell-shocked state I'd previously been in, although the pain lingered, causing me to uncomfortably shift every few minutes. "..But I can't decide what they choose to believe, nor how they choose to react." my eyes were downcast for only a moment as they watched my left hand that was still lingering protectively above my stomach. The response from my own village had been more varied than I'd hoped, and not in a good way. Half seemed supportive, whilst the other half seemed completely against the thought of such a child being raised, let alone born in to the village. The fact that my own cousin was still hesitant to accept the news also struck me harder than I'd hoped. Drawing my gaze away and refocusing on Akira, I partly uttered an unsure laugh, formed from each little doubt I had from the situation.

"..I don't want my village to be scorned as a result of this."
"They don't deserve that - None of them do."

I mused sadly as I gazed elsewhere in to the office, my expression distant and my tone just as much so.

And my words seemed endless, almost as if I was unable to stop, despite my voice being slightly strained from the sheer amount of pressure on my body from the amount of overflowing chakra I bore.

It was strange; to confide in him, out of everyone.
Upon noticing this however, I shook my head.

"..My apologies, Akira."

"..I don't know what came over me."

I was, of course, referring to the gush of words I'd released to him moments ago. Rolling my hand across my forehead and then in to the abundance of blonde hair upon my head, I leaned back slightly.

SPOILER: Click to show

3 Infuin stacks gained.

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[Nujabes]

"Calm down," I playfully suggested to Blanche, waving away her seemingly paranoid requests. Of course, I knew how important the confidentiality of these matters were. But, as I'd already told her, none of this was my place to say anything. "I already told you that I don't intend to tell anyone your business, Blanche. What you do with your personal life, whether it be feed on chakra like some addict or have a child with the most notorious criminal in the world, is your business. I have no room to judge you, and even if I did, I wouldn't. That isn't who I am."

I smiled, hoping she finally understood. Then, my eye grew wide with realization and I snapped my fingers. "Oh, that remembers me!"

Making my way over the door I'd come through nearly several moments ago, I hesitantly place my hand upon the handle to slide it open. "There's an old friend that's been dying to see you," I explained as I barely slide it open. "He sensed you the moment you were at the gates. You, or your guard there," I nodded to the ANBU. "But, I'm pretty sure it was you." Peeking my head in, I looked about the shadows of the room. "Now listen," I spoke to someone, or something. "She's pregnant, you hear me?! PREG-NANT. You can't just jump on her. You do, and you'll go without dinner for a week!"

Sliding the door back fully, a blur of white, blue, and gold shot past me. "SAMEHADA!" I bellowed, and the sentient sword nearly paused mid-way in its gate. Shaking my finger, I glared. "I said be gentle with her." Nodding, almost as if it were a snake, the sword continued to make its way to Blanche until it lurched over her shoulder. The crown split evenly, and from within its being came two rows of razor teeth and a long, moist tongue. It lapped at Blanche's face, gleefully giggling and writhing against her flesh.

He had missed her.

[Apple]

With soft, golden hair flowing downwards at the back of the bench, my head tilted backwards as I allowed my body to lean in to the seat, I perked it up slightly as Akira spoke once more, my eyes capturing him in my vision. A wave of relief washed over me the very moment that he finished after having promised to me his dedication to not revealing my own personal affairs to the outside world, and I allowed my head to then tilt back again as I felt myself becoming somewhat more relaxed in response. However - despite the playfulness in his words and the meaning of no offense, I couldn't help but subconsciously release a pitiful smirk as he uttered the notion of my hunger for chakra in the same context as being an addict. That wasn't me - I just needed to get a better grasp of myself and I'd be fine. I wasn't an addict. I didn't have any kind of problem - it was just.. a minor complication. I was sure of it - and whoever thought otherwise was wrong, although I allowed his words to mass merely for the sake of not beginning another fight. And then, finally, I spoke back to him, my lips gently parting to make way for an appreciative-sounding "..Thank you.". Whilst it was quiet, it was none the less genuine. Perhaps, despite the clashes we'd had in the past, we'd both matured since then. Or I'd changed. I was sure it was more the latter, but really, I was sure that the two of us hadn't been in the best states of mind at that time. Even with the chakra which seemed to guide my thoughts often, I now viewed life with some degree of clarity, for perhaps the first time in a long, long while. Maybe it was simply because of Yuuchiro and the level of responsibility I had been required to gain, not only to serve my village, but to serve him as a mother. Although my temper was very much there and I could feel it nagging in the back of my mind, I was no longer the foul-mouthed demoness who I'd embraced the personality of in the past. Or maybe I'd just slowed down. I didn't want to think that that had happened - but right now, I felt harmonious being at peace with my family. Even with the troubles that faced Kusagakure from the news I'd dealt them, I embraced the life that I was about to commit to with open arms; I couldn't be more ready for change. Had Akira himself taken a new direction in life after finding out that he was a father? I couldn't exactly tell as I hadn't exactly truly held a conversation with him in the past and therefore I couldn't gauge the difference, but I was sure that it had changed him somehow, and for the better, too. Allowing myself to move forwards, my head moving back to its original position facing front, I gazed on curiously as Akira moved, his words making no sense at first, but..

I had an idea of who it was.
But, I didn't want to get my hopes up.

A flicker of metal invaded my gaze, and I couldn't help but grin.

I'd heard Akira speak -- forewarning the blade that I now saw all too clearly moving of its own accord around the room, listening to the words of its new master. Whilst it pained me to think of it in that way, I could already feel my hands unhooking themselves from the bench around me, ready to embrace the sword with open arms. Akira's lecture-like words for my dear friend to be careful was appreciated, although -- I didn't think that it would get that drastic. Despite the fact that the blade was very much alive, and was also very much dangerous in the hands of the right user, I'd become more than aware of not only its capabilities, but the personality of the sword itself. Having had the sword clung to my back for several years with hardly much seperation between the two of us during that time, I'd become very much in tune with it. And whilst I wasn't sure about how it acted whilst in the presence of Akira, it had stayed very loyal to me; often acting more like a child than what I expected the one that I was about to have would be like. Despite not requiring the same needs, Samehada had always been as attention-hungry as it had with chakra, and during our time together I'd always responded well to this, treating the blade moreso as a friend more than anything - a pet, perhaps. With its travel becoming blurred to my eyes as the same pain lingered, I nonetheless watched on with a look of pure happiness on my face merely to see him again, as the very moment the weapon had been torn from my hands, I was sure that the glimmer of metal would be the last I'd see him.

"SAMEHADA!"

But as it approached, I felt a canine-like lick to the left side of my face, and I soon came to realize that time had meant nothing.

It was strange, really, to think that during the time I'd wielded it it had been as much of an ally to me that I placed it alongside Soratsu. Not in the single sense that it had been useful, of course, but the fact that the two of us had been through so much during those years, but the blade had been the only resolute thing to remain. Allowing my arms to wrap around it carefully and embrace him, murmuring greetings in to the non-existing ears of the blade, my tone warped with a sudden sweetness. Being in its presence, I came to realize that perhaps I had become more like the blade than I'd first imagined. I'd always been aware of Samehada's own thirst for chakra, and whilst mine was innate given my roots, I could only assume that it had made things worse through our connection. But -- I couldn't bring myself to blame him. Petting the blade with my left hand, I titled my body slightly to the side, and turned my gaze towards Akira as I remained in the sword's close presence. I could feel the chakra permanating from its skin, and it felt so.. comfortingly familiar.

"..I don't mean to lecture you, but I hope you're taking good care of him."

"He shouldn't be stuck in that room all day; no matter how spacious it is, Akira."

"..He favors fresh air just as much as the rest of us."

My eyes moved to the features of the blade as it continued to lick my face.

"..Isn't that right, Same-Chan?"

..Gigigigigigigigigi..!


"..He'd like you to take him out more."

Again, my gaze shifted to the blade - albeit almost.. possessed by something.

And at that moment, I felt my hands move to grasp its hilt, the texture bringing back several memories of adventures long gone to my mind, tempting me to relive the adrenaline-filled days that I'd spent wandering the world, the blade's giggling causing me to become distant. However; gazing downwards at myself, it only made me remember that I had not only myself to look out for, now, and not only that, but I had a duty to fulfill. Allowing my grasp to become loose, I instead granted the sentient blade one more hug, before focusing my attention back on its current owner, Akira. In its presence my expression had become much more sharklike; a menacing smirk returning to my face, allowing rows of several pearly white teeth to be shown.

"..I'll be coming back for him some day, Akira."
"I still haven't forgotten your offer, and I intend to take it up."

Despite the severity in my words, they were laced with a playful tinge that signified that I was parodying myself in my current state at the moment. Perhaps it would be in a few months, or a few years. I wasn't sure, but seeing him again rekindled just how much I missed it, not as a weapon, but as a friend. Allowing it to bury in to the sea of my hair, making what sounded like whining noises as I'd stopped petting the metallic scales that it bore, I continued, as the smirk disappeared, being replaced by that same smile that I'd previously displayed.

Perhaps it was a sword that had history with Kirigakure, but I, too, had made history of my own with it.

And our story was to be continued.

..Some day.

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[Nujabes]

"Ha!" I bellowed, placing a hand over my stomach as I laughed heartily. "Don't let that cute smile of sharp teeth fool you, Blanche. I spoil that sword more than I'd spoil a baby," I admitted. In the time that'd had passed since I'd acquired Samehada, the sword was far more a pet to me than a weapon. I fed him daily, and often took him out for exercising when I left the village. Knowing our connection was not dampened by distance, I wasn't afraid to let him wander about the island while I tended to my training. "The only reason he was in that room was because I didn't want him to pounce on you, or your friends. He's still pretty sharp, even if he is just a big baby." I shook my head. "But, I figured you'd want to see him. It's been a while."

Naturally, I didn't have a problem with Blanche taking me up on that offer. Though she was not of my nation, she had (somehow) come into contact with the blade before I or any of my ninja. I recognized their bond, and knew that if she were ever capable of defeating me, Samehada would gladly join her side once more. Unfortunately, I didn't intend on letting that happen anytime in the near future.

Still, I smirked. "And yeah, of course. That offer will be on the table as long as we're alive, Blanche." I shrugged. "Hell, if you can find me in the after life, maybe you'll be able to settle our score there?" I knew very well that our little sibling rivalry extended well beyond Samehada's possession. I was probably one of the only men to have bested in such a glorious fashion, let alone period. Had it been me, I would have been quite salty, myself.

[Apple]

"Don't let that cute smile of sharp teeth fool you, Blanche. I spoil that sword more than I'd spoil a baby,"

"..But you deserve to be spoiled, don't you?"

My inquiry was posed to the blade before me as I held it close, grinning as I spoke, the same sugar-sweet tone of voice coming in to play - much like the one you'd use to speak to a young child, or a dog.

It seemed as if Akira did take good care of him; but at the same time, with such motherly instincts potent at the moment (Despite the fact that, truly, it was a sword) I was sure that I had done a better job - not to offend Akira in any way, of course. But in lieu of having anyone by my side, Samehada had turned in to much more than just a sword. It was a companion; and I often treated it as if it was my own child. Such a relationship could be clearly seen now as the blade, almost baby-like nuzzled up carefully to me, demanding any attention that I could give him. With my hands still petting its sharp scales, Samehada having changed the texture of its form so that the spikes wouldn't pierce in to my skin, simply sitting here made me feel nostalgic. "I doubted that I'd see him again." I confessed to him. After our fight; I wasn't too sure if I wanted to see him in the hands of another, let alone see Akira himself. Losing him had upset me, although perhaps it had been my own stupidity that had amounted to that. But I was different now - despite the constant need for chakra and the rumors that surrounded me, I was mature. Much more mature than I'd been at the point that I'd first claimed the sword as my own. "..But I can see that he's still a sweetheart -- you haven't changed, haven't you, Same-chan?!"

[/b] It was.. odd, of course, to describe the blade in that context. Although, truly, it was only something that wielders of the blade could experience. For enemies and foes of those bearing the blade Samehada, they saw a gigantic lump of metal with a twisted face, out to shred the skin away from their pathetic bodies. But for us.. The blade was completely different. To those who had developed a bond with it, although capable of attacking if the current wielder wished, I didn't doubt that the blade had a consciousness. But generally, it was harmless, bar from the few accidental punctures to my skin I'd received over the years - of which I was sure I'd heard him cry miserably for after recognizing what he'd done.

Moving my right hand and audibly tapping the side of the bench that I was sat on, a small whistle emitting from my mouth, the blade soon seemed to perk up slightly, as if having noticed something, and hopped over to where I'd motioned for him to go. Of course, it was for the sake of allowing me to get up without potentially falling on a bed of spikes or allowing the sword to upset my balance through jumping up and trying to lick my face. Giving myself a few moments to gather my strength, I grasped either side of the bench I was sat upon, and then pushed myself up, soon finding myself comfortable standing. I then motioned to Samehada, he hopping over again once I was back on my feet. Nuzzling as gently as he could in to my side, the spiked texture of his skin having been retracted to avoid injury, I petted him back, but moved to walk back towards Akira. The sword, by my side, began to hop almost comically in tune to my cumbersome steps, in order to remain clinging to my side. Drawing close to Akira, I allowed a respectable space between us.

"..The afterlife can wait."
"I'll get my darling back before then."

My expression was, to some degree, overconfident, but well-meaning.


"..What's that? You want to come back with mommy, sweetie?"

..Gigigigigigi..

"..Don't worry -- I'm sure that Akira is looking after you well."

Despite having no clear face, the blade seemed obviously distraught over the question, sensing that I was preparing to leave soon. Despite having served me for several years, he was now under the care of Akira, and I respected that, but it didn't stop me from babying him. I wasn't sure if there had been another in the lifetime of the sword, but I viewed myself as its mother, and nothing could change that. I liked to believe that he thought that, too. Removing my hand from its sharp scales, I allowed it to drop to the tip of my stomach, although -- the blade emitting a whine, it continued to nuzzle the side of my body as I momentarily glanced at it. I still felt ill, but those brief few moments of happiness had managed to curb its domination over my body for the time being. However, now, it began to crawl back and regain the influence it had past had.

"..Thank you for being a courteous host." I spoke, ending with a soft bow of my head to express my gratitude. Unable to hold away from Samehada's soft whines for attention much longer, my free hand extended slightly, as the blade bounced around my form to reach it. "And I.. ..apologize, for my.. attitude." I spoke with several hesitant pauses, unsure of how to word the sentence exactly. I wasn't even sure about how to describe what I was telling him -- my lust for chakra had overwhelmed me, and whilst he didn't seem too negatively effected by it, I still regretted it. Not only because I felt sick, now, as a result, my head pounding and a familiar feeling of nausea rising up from the pit of my stomach, but because of what I'd done in its entirety. Whilst I wasn't green in the face, my expression voiced my discomfort more than words or actions could ever do. Despite seeming much more content in the presence of my old friend, I did, nonetheless, appear unwell.

But it would pass.

Realigning my gaze on the man before me, I prepared to speak again.

"..Will you be attending the chuunin exams this year?"
"It won't be long now until Konohagakure opens its doors to the rest of the world."

They were to begin in a few weeks - and I was curious as to if I'd see him there.
Of course -- I wasn't even sure if I'd be well enough to go, but I was intending to.

SPOILER: Click to show

4 Infuin stacks gained.

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[Nujabes]

"There's no need to apologize." It isn't like it bothered me. Considering our history, she was doing me a service simply by coming her and speaking civilly with me. I had been expecting her to be a screaming, frothing-at-the-mouth savage; I hardly thought I'd be letting her feed off my chakra. But, I suppose a child will do that to you - that or maturing. Either or, it was a pleasant surprise.

Rolling my shoulders, seemingly cracking every bone in my neck, I sighed. "As for the Chuunin Exams, I will be attending. I have a few shinobi whom will be participating this year. I'm hoping for some fairly good results." Considering one of the shinobi was Chae, I had no doubt that we would win this year (again). While I don't doubt that the other nations have some very promising candidates, Chae's skills were well beyond Chuunin-level. Had he not been so lazy, the boy would've been a Jounin by now.

Crossing my arms, I loosely glanced about the room. "I imagine you have some shinobi of your own that will be participating, yes?"

[Apple]

Of course, his forgiveness for what I’d done was greatly appreciated. I was sure that I’d get better from this – that I’d overcome whatever leechlike qualities that had taken over my mind in such a dire way. But I was a leech – it was within my nature as a member of the akadou family. It was a trait that not many were aware of, and it was a trait that I wasn’t too keen on revealing to the public. With myself and Kouketsu being scrutinized already by the news that the two of us had released to them, this wasn’t something that I wanted for them to know about. I’d had a few close calls in the past, and I’d been placed out of my comfort zone after understanding the seriousness of deciding to prey on Esei, but despite that, I’d shown no mercy in wishing to drain Akira. Where such an addiction had plagued me in the past, it had been easily fixed with a few days concentration. But that time had been such a long time ago, and I wasn’t even sure if I would be fully restored to my old self even after Yuuchiro’s birth. The future wasn’t mine to tell, and that, perhaps, was the most terrifying thing of all. But despite this, I felt strangely comforted. By what, I didn’t know, but it was a soft, warm feeling that numbed my mind from any concerns that may come its way – although perhaps that was the exact mindframe that was leading me to carelessly feed on the innocent. Regardless, as my mind wandered to far off places, cold blue eyes becoming distant, they soon became rejuvenated with life as I snapped back to reality upon the sound of bone clicking closeby, I turned my attention towards its source to see Akira twisting his neck slightly. I could recall him doing a similar thing earlier, and so I eased myself, a soft exhale leaving my lips. But with the topic of the chuunin exams at hand, I refocused my attention on the man as I prepared to respond to his comment about his own village’s entrance in the exams. I’d expected the village to take part given the fact that Kirigakure had been known to get good results from the exams in the past. ”..I’m sure that given the reputation Kirigakure has gained in past exams for gaining chuunin that you’ll have no problem.” I spoke honestly. The village had a knack for producing capable shinobi, and with my mind and eyes flickering momentarily to Kouketsu, I could only assume that perhaps the term would be too capable. ”..I’ve had a few people express their interest in joining exams, but; we’ll see.” With Akira’s strength and the unknown power that one of the unnamed assilants of Kumogakure along with many other strong people who hailed from the village, I didn’t doubt that Kirigakure would have a good chance for success in the exams that were soon to happen.

A brief silence overcoming us as I looked downwards to Samehada who was still licking my hand with its canine-like traits, I moved to smooth my hand across the flattened surface of its skin, although I soon diverted my eyes back to the Mizukage before me, a kind smile still on my face despite all that had been talked about –all that had been done. My mind was weighed down heavily by the information that I’d been given about Kirigakure’s position in the killing of Eiichiro, but if the truth was that it had been away from his own control and that they’d been properly punished for the crimes that they’d committed, then I felt at least somewhat justified.

“I’m sure Kohana and her village will be befitting hosts.”



“She’s too.. stubborn to allow herself to be humiliated.”

"I haven't seen her in a long time."

She was nothing on me of course. The ground tore and gave way to hell when I was angry – but her spirit was.. entertaining. The two of us were similar; and because of that, I’d never felt that comfortable around her. But – I was sure that the same went for herself. Where the matter of trusting her was in the question.. I wasn’t quite sure if I did, truth be told. But perhaps it was better that way.

”..Perhaps I’ll be seeing you soon at the exams then, Akira.”

“Hopefully I’ll be attending.”

“Missing such an event would be.. unfortunate, to say the least.”

With my intention to visit the exams made concrete, I then crossed my arms. Of course, I wasn’t too sure if I would go, but I didn’t want to miss seeing my shinobi compete. It didn’t feel right staying in the village whilst so much was going on elsewhere that could potentially effect the village, but if complications sprung up before the exams then I’d have to stay in the village – and then surely be cooped up in the compound under Kouketsu’s will until Yuuchiro’s birth, and probably for some days after that. He was easily made concerned, and whilst I wanted to visit the exams, at the same time, I didn’t want to worry him, and neither did I want to worry myself. But, turning away from Akira and back towards Esei, I took the wool cloak out of his hands, and took it back in to my own, making my way back towards the giant as my arms began to twist as I began to put the garment back on.

[daisy]

Oversized sunglasses hid my eyes, glinting in the light as i made my way towards the tower. I doubted the need to conceal my appearance, it had been so long, after all. Yet the glasses were so fashionable, their practicality was of little import. It felt strange, approaching so formally. I had never been in this part of Kirigakure, had not been in any part of the village for a long time. Yet it remained my last known location, i supposed, prior to my trademark vanishing act. But what was more appealing than a woman of mystery? Truly, i felt foolish. The returning Tsuchikage - former, really - making an appearance in Kiri before even setting foot in her own village. It had just been so long... Such an abandonment was not easily overcome.

Heels clacked loudly as i stepped into the building, approaching someone i assumed to be staff.
"Why, hello! I was wondering if you could arrange a small rendezvous with the Mizukage for me? I'm an old friend, you see." I said sweetly, eyes narrow behind my glasses. In reality, i simply didn't know where else to go. After the battle with Sand, and my rather tumultuous search for that relic, i ended up battered and exhausted, in Akira's hospital. Instead of facing the consequences, healing my village after perhaps a landmark folly, i had slipped away once again. Running was difficult in heels, but i'd give any number of blisters to avoid the pain that had loomed over me and my people.

Whether that made me a bad person, i did not know. But it was not a redeeming quality of a kage. I tugged my throw tighter about my shoulders. Kirigakure was not cold, but it was not the warmth i had escaped to. I could not forsee the results of my presence here, but it was time to face my future. One stiletto step at a time.

[Nujabes]

The woman at the desk had chocolate brown hair and vivid green eyes. Her glasses weren't nearly as fancy as the Tsuchikage's, and did very little to hide the large eyes behind them. "I'm sorry, but the Mizukage is currently in a meeting with the Kusakage. You'll have to wait until he's finished." The woman gestured to the lobby behind Coco. "Please, feel free to have a seat and I will inform you the moment Lord Akira is ready for you."

---

"Agreed." I can't lie and say that it wasn't a fond sight. Even as we discussed entirely serious matters, watching Samehada lick and kiss Blanche was heart warming. It almost made me want to let him go with her, even if just for the weekend; kind of like a pet visit. But, not sure whether or not I'd ever get him back, I decided against it. Can't be too trusting, y'know?

Suddenly, there was very faint gust of wind. A kneeling shinobi was there at my side, clad in black robes and donning a porcelain white mask. He stood and whispered, "You have another visitor."

"Who is it?" My tone was hushed.

"I'm not sure - a blonde woman."

I nod, and he vanishes.

"Unfortunately, Lady Kusakage, I have other matters to attend to." Snapping my fingers, Samehada gave Blanche a final wet kiss and then slithered back to me. The sentient blade made its way further, back into the room he'd been in, and I closed the door. "It's been a pleasure seeing you, and I look forward to seeing you at the exams, as well."

[daisy]

I smiled, inclining my head and turning on my heel to retrace my steps to the lobby. It gave me some small amusement, behaving meekly like some average citizen of Kiri. Perhaps in my younger days i would've marched up regardless, and no doubt caused some sort of obnoxious problem. But i was diminished. I slipped gracefully into a seat, crossing my long legs, and adjusting my dress. So he was here after all. It didn't come as a surprise, of course, but the thought that he was here, in this building, somewhere above me, was strange. Our parting was unceremonious, really downright rude on my part. I had a lot of making up to do. And if i had to work on Akira, i could only imagine the work Iwagakure would take. Perhaps some capable young thing had taken over, and the dear place had returned to stability. Perhaps it merely lay in ruins.

I shook my head slightly, running a hand through my hair. I was here for the present, not to worry about what had passed, or what was yet to come. I would wait.

[Apple]

Our meeting had truly come to a close, and on that note, I had swiftly finished donning the cape that I’d brought to protect myself from the elements, and now my arms hung to my side, awaiting for Akira’s final response so that myself and my party could begin making our way back towards Kusa no kuni. There was a long journey ahead of us, but I was sure that it wouldn’t be too dire. With silence upon my part I listened in as the giant before me spoke, sealing the abrupt meeting that I’d called with a goodbye – although not before an ANBU suddenly made its appearance, explaining that he had another person to speak to. Upon the term blonde a familiar face came to mind, although it couldn’t have been her – or at least, I hoped it wasn’t for the sake of my own patience not being tried. A soft nod of my head entailed my thanks, and I also replied with a ”And I you, Akira.” I paused, gazing at the ANBU to my own side and Esei, before looking back to Akira. ”..I’ll be seeing you.” and on that simple note, I gave him an almost devilish grin, before making my way back to the door that I’d arrived from. With my entourage following me, I paid the white-haired man a single blue-eyed gaze, before being allowed out of the Mizukage’s chambers and out towards the hallway that I’d come from. A short journey passed until I arrived in the main foyer that the three of us had arrived in, wherein I could then leave, although –

Coco.

The leather-like fabric of my gloves tightened considerably as I felt my hands grow in to fists the very moment I saw her trademark eccentric appearance.

What had happened to Sora was still fresh in mind; although one could say that Kouketsu and myself had been the reason that he’d been reverted to such a way, the manner that Iwagakure had attacked Sora’s village – and attacked him, too – was something that angered me even to this day. Having caught sight of her on the stairs, I continued to make my way down them; my hands carefully holding on to the handrail to my right for assistance. Remembering back to that day; I’d had to heal the blistering mound of burnt flesh that his body had become after he’d been caught in the explosion by one of her iwa shinobi, and as it was an attack orchestrated beneath her rule, she was the one to blame. Even with Sora’s attempt on my life, he was still to this day a close friend of mine, even with his condition. And the thought of her simply being here angered me. Whilst my own presence would be quite prominent, too, both I and the woman – or man, as I’d suspected – having been quite close, I merely moved past her to make my leave, but not without allowing my icy blue eyes to stare intently in to her own, past the oversized shades that she wore.

I had no time for her.

EXIT!

SPOILER: Click to show

5 Infuin stacks gained.

[Nujabes]

The assistant watched as the Kusakage made her exit, and the nodded to the new woman. "You're free to enter, ma'am." She flashed a toothy smile. "That way," she points to the long flight of stairs.

[daisy]

I toyed with my handbag, eyes cast down rather than observing the comings and goings of Kirigakure citizens. I felt like a scolded child, returning home after running away, well aware i was about to be berated. But i was calm. It was then that a familiar presence made itself known, forcing my eyes upwards. Her presence seemed even stronger now, bigger almost. Perhaps it was a result of her physicality. Blanche was... pregnant? The look she gave me was chilling as she swept by, all ice and arrogance even with her prominent stomach. I got uncertainly to my feet, hand pressed to my chest.

"Blanche..." But she was gone. What hatred must she harbour to look at me like that? Had something happened? I stared after her, watching that luminous blonde hair drift away from me. I could hardly expect any less. My actions before my disappearance would likely leave many with that cold glare. Yet, in some small way, i had hoped she would understand. Feeling rather worse, i gave my best attempt at a smile to the receptionist, and made my way up the stairs.

While walking, my composure returned to me. She was not the only queen of the shinobi world. Perhaps Kusagakure forgot its friends far too fast. I was the first to vote for their status as major village in the summit, had nothing but concern for the girl, and her involvement with Kouketsu. But now was not the time to think of her. I had someone else to prepare for.

Before long, i found my way, knocking lightly on the door before letting myself in. I stopped in the doorway as i caught sight of him. Still as tall and handsome as ever. Perhaps looking a little older, more world-weary. Perhaps it was my imagination. I stood there, in my plain black dress, my fur throw clutched about my shoulders, staring at him from behind my glasses. And i had no words.

I took a hesitant step towards him, and reached up and removed my sunglasses.

"Akira? It's me."

[Nujabes]

What a sight for sore eyes.

Honestly, I'd never expected to see Coco again. Though she and I had hit it off quite well (as friends), things were just a bit different after her little escapade with those bandits. I'd saved her life, yet she was gone before the next morning. No note; no message; nothing. Just gone. At first, I thought she just needed some time to herself. But news of Iwagakure's situation came all too quickly, and I realized she'd pulled another of her disappearing acts.

"I know." Even though a decent amount of time had passed, she still looked the same. Full of youth, though seasoned and aged to perfection like fine wine. It isn't surprising at all, considering who it is. If there's one thing I know, it's that Coco's vanity is probably her greatest treasure. Ah well, who can blame her? Considering her circumstances, she does look rather gorgeous.

Rather than dwell on the topics of, "Where did you go?!" or "How could you leave?!" I take a seat on the work bench, casually leaning forward. "How have you been?" I smile generously, tilting my head to the side. "You look great."

[daisy]

Always so composed, was dear Akira. So solid and strong, as if nothing could phase him. I couldn't help return the smile as he greeted me so casually, as if I were merely popping in after an afternoon's shopping. I recalled our time together, the way he'd made me feel back then. It was difficult to explain, really. Was it just so blissful to forget Kain? Or had I truly become attached to Akira? There was no doubt I cared a great deal for the man, and owed him a lot, not least my life. And after all this time? Well, it was a nice feeling to see him once again.

"Charming as always. You're quite a welcome sight yourself, dear." I said, sliding my sunglasses up into my hair. I slipped gracefully into a chair, toying with a bejeweled ring as I looked up at him. How had I been? I'd been cowardly, and I'd been running. I'd been pretending and ignoring, indulging in all sorts of reckless distractions.
"I've been alright, thanks to you. I... apologise for my rather abrupt departure. I'm afraid it's one of my few unfashionable tendencies." I said, shrugging my shoulders ever so slightly.

What did you say in this situation? How could I thank him? How could I apologise to him? How could I explain how I'd felt, how I still felt, and why I fled? Perhaps I couldn't. I got up from the chair, uncomfortable with anxiety and uncertainty. I stepped towards him slowly, then closed the gap between us and reached out my hand. I touched his chest, with the very tips of my fingers.

"I couldn't do it, Akira. I couldn't face any of it. Least of all you."