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It feels like it's been so long. I'd be lying if I said that I didn't enjoy every second of Kohana's lips against my own, and desired for nothing more as we parted ways. Even as she replied to my inquiries, my thoughts were still somewhat lost in a haze of bliss; my grip upon her was lax and comfortable, my body a pillar for her to easily rest against. As for Blanche? Well, her behavior in response to Kohana and I was quite humorous. I couldn't help but wonder how Kouketsu had managed to court such a prude, and let alone how she'd managed to maintain that train of thought when dating a lion like him. Though I wasn't too privy in the Shodaime's personal life, I remembered quite well what type of man he'd been during his days of Kirigakure. Masumi and his personal quarters-- well, it was never a dull day or night there.

I fell silent for a handful of moments, allowing Kohana to have her conversation with Blanche. As she finished, I glanced down at her. "Well, I'm glad that things are going well. That's usually the hardest part-- getting adjusted to having them inside of you," I explained with a knowing-tone. "And, yes - the Hachibi would be correct. But as for your memory, what can I say? I'm a man of many mysteries! I think I'd lose my allure if I told you all of my secrets, Kohana."

Leaning down, I whispered: "Will you be busy between breaks in the tournament rounds?"

I smiled appreciatively, indeed knowing the risk that she was taking by withholding such valuable information. But, then again, what mother really wanted to bring their child into a world racked with war? Though tensions had never been higher among the villages, all things considered, the peace had remained stable -- albeit somewhat fragile. So long as we could keep a lid on things and ensure everything remained controlled, there was no reason we couldn't make this peace last; allow it to stretch for as long as we could. "I'm sure you can imagine how grateful I am," I replied conversationally as I made my way over to one of the many benches that littered the room. Taking a seat, I drooped both of my arms across my thighs and leaned forward. "I apologize for the lack of seats in this area. But, I don't usually do too much sitting when I'm in here."

Looking from Blanche to the remainder of her entourage, I cracked a smile when my gaze fell upon the ANBU. Though it'd been so long ago, I could easily remember how it felt to be standing by his side during the dangerous nights of the water. The fires illuminated him like a god standing upon a pyre of ruination, and even though I was his general, it struck utter fear into my heart. As powerful as I was, even the name Kouketsu Uchiha humbled me. I knew, first hand, the power that seethed in every cell of that man; it was just odd to see him as a father, let alone with Blanche, and clearly so happy. I could see how he lingered just a bit closer than the boy, though not a noticeable amount to a traditional eye; I could see how his breathing was slightly accelerated simply from being in her presence.

It was a warming sight.

"I recently found out that I'm a father, myself." My thoughts drifted off to Namitsuki, having found him within the borders of Konohagakure. Though things had been somewhat odd with his mother, Kaoruko, I had nevertheless accepted them both into Kirigakure with open arms. I rarely saw his mother, unfortunately, but I couldn't blame her. She and I were still sorting things out -- and, well, my relationship with Kohana didn't make it any easier. I wanted nothing more than for the both of them to be happy, but I'd completely lost myself in the equation. There was no denying how I felt for Kohana, but at the same time, there were just some things in life that, no matter how far you run or how long it's been, they can always call you back on a whim.

Kaoruko was just that.

Blinking away the thoughts, and my blank expression, my eyes softened and my smile warmed. Retrieving a roll of bandages, I began covering my right eye. Not because of the chakra drain, mind you, but simply because it felt as though I was invading the woman's privacy by having it activated. That, and it was nice to not have three flares of potent chakra in front of me at all times. "Unfortunately, I missed my chance at assisting her through the pregnancy and also a large portion of my son's life. I've only just recently had my first chance to spend time with him. He's the most beautiful thing that I've ever seen." He truly was - I'd never been more proud in my entire life.

"She named him Namitsuki, after me." I highly doubted Blanche knew my true name, being as how 'Akira' had been the moniker used the most in association with me. Sighing, I glanced over to Blanche with a more scrutinizing look. "You look drained," I noticed. "Can I offer you something to drink? Something to eat?"

"You can't blame me for being a gentleman," I teased with a laugh, retreating several steps from her to give some space. "But, you're right. I'm sure that any woman is still around after having a fight with me can handle walking around while pregnant," I went on to explain, remembering our confrontation like it was yesterday. Even as I looked at her now, I was still utterly impressed she was even alive. While I did not unleash everything that I could, the fact she'd seen the majority of my power and-- it was just incredible, period.

I was in the middle of turning around, and stepping off to the side, when a familiar voice rang out over the cheers and sounds of the battles below. Adjusting my half-pivot a little further, Kohana's form came into view. I could only see her through one eye, as my other was covered with bandages, but it was more than enough. "If you'll excuse me, Blanche."

It only took several steps to clear the distance between us, and with a larger than normal hand I hooked several fingers in the strep of her flak-jacket, pulling her closer. "You know I don't mind informality, pussycat," I whispered while leaning down, using my other hand to lift the face-cowl and ease her into a very deep, passionate kiss. I stayed there for several long moments, feeling as though it'd been forever since we'd done this -- just embraced each other, like a normal couple. Reluctantly pulling away, I lingered close, so that she could feel the breath of my words rolling along her skin.

"I'll be staying in Konohagakure for a few days, after the exams are finished," I continued to whisper in her ear. "I take it you won't mind if I spend the night with you, hm?" My gaze fell below her bust line, aimed for the seal along her abdomens. "I hope you won' mind either, kitten."

I knew the Nibi could hear me, and I couldn't help but chuckle as I released Kohana's flak jacket and stepped back. But, that same hand then came to her own, taking it in the deep crescent of my palm. Intertwining our fingers, I held her firmly -- carefully. Who cares about appearances? Half the world already knew about us, anyway. We were people, as well. And even though my history with Konohagakure was. . . well, somewhat shaky (since the Second War), I had nothing to fear. "How have things been? Are you adjusting alright?"

Formality, in my case, was usually a one time thing. I watched as Blanche drew closer, not bothering to remove either my hat nor face-cowl. It was obvious she was well aware of who I was, considering she'd spoken my name. "There is no shame in a lone participant," I explained with a tone much softer than I usually exercised with foreign leaders. But, things were different between Blanche and I.

Since her visit to Kirigakure, I think we may have even become. . . friends. "Unlike the previous exams, even Kirigakure only has a single shinobi to represent us. My cousin, Chae Yoon." Surely, she would remember the name from our previous discussion. However, I was positive we were passed that; she seemed satisfied with the judgement I delivered, and hadn't questioned it.

"I believe they will both do wonderful." Falling silent, my gaze fell to the swell of her stomach. Not noticing a familiar pressure of chakra nearby, I leaned in close, so my words would only be heard by her. "I meant what I said, Blanche. While I don't doubt that your ninja are capable, know that you are fully protect so long as I am here. Should anything occur," I glanced about, "Getting you to safety will be my first and only priority." I placed a friendly hand on her shoulder, and smiled behind my cowl. "And next time-- let me come to your seat, hn? You shouldn't be walking so much."

"Right." So, you aren't trying to hurt this guy too bad. There was nothing more than ten meters separating us now (thanks largely in part to the man before men's forward pace), and I stopped there. This was plenty close enough. "So, I take it you won't be accepting my offer?"

Even though my voice remained friendly, the earth could feel what was transpiring beneath that faux hospitality. The energy seeping from my body was saturating everything around me, causing every pebble of debris within thirty meters of my body to shake violently against their dusty beds. My eyes sharpened, and were illuminated with a reflective sheen¹.

Though I didn't reach for either of the swords on my back, Samehada giggled uncontrollable and writhed anxiously against my back. He knew what was coming, and if this man was no fool, surely he did too. "Last chance. . ."

SPOILER: Click to show

¹

Better late than never, I thought as I climbed the winding stairs that led to the Kages' personal skybox. It'd been a while since I'd been to Hi no Kuni, and though I no longer considered the Hidden Leaf my home (or origins, really), it still brought back fond memories of the place. Nostalgia was thick in the air, and as I emerged from the hall and into the skybox, I took a deep breath.

"Good day, Lady Kusakage." My voice was loud and clear, easily overwhelming any of the conversations taken place. It hadn't been long since I'd seen the Kusakage, with her having just visited my village not too long ago-- but I didn't see Kohana.

Both my robes -- pale, alabaster white -- and ceremonial hat, fit me quite well. I'd chosen to wear the face-cover as well, not that my identity was much of a secret; there weren't many in the world who could impersonate me, and not many places that I, personally , could hide. Comes with the territory of being a giant and all.