Adult-FanFiction.org : Naruto

Underneath The Leaves	By : ChaCha92 Category: Naruto AU/AR > Het - Male/Female Views: 4798 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: Don't own anything in the Naruto universe. Some dude in Japan does. Make no money on my stories either.

Chapter List
- 20
- 21
Wasting the day and evening at home, that’s Naruto’s ideal way to spend a day off. It’s all the sweeter knowing she doesn’t have to put up with attending the Hokage’s Ball later tonight.
Wandering through the living room towards the kitchen, the bright morning sunshine fills the front rooms with an ethereal glow. Idly she notes Kakashi must be gone since she can’t sense a trace of him. She muses he probably won’t be back until the afternoon to get ready for the party.
After eating breakfast, she disappears into the bathroom for a nice long hot shower. Dressed in her usual lounge pants and one of Kakashi’s old t-shirts she borrowed on a permanent basis, she finally emerges while toweling off her hair.
“Naruto,” Kakashi’s voice drifts down the hallway.
Surprised, she pauses in vigorously toweling off her hair to frown towards the living room. Curious, she steps clear of the hallway, seeing him standing by the dining room table. Coming closer she notices a large white rectangular gift box with a smaller wood box sitting on top.
“Tsunade summoned me to the tower earlier and asked me to bring this home to you,” he explains, drawing her attention to him.
Locking her gaze on the boxes again, her eyes narrow suspiciously.
“It better not be what I think it is,” she mutters threateningly.
“I have no idea,” he shrugs indifferently.
She glares at him briefly before draping her towel on the back of the chair in front of her. Moving the small box to the side, she reaches for the larger box and slips the lid off.
To her horror she pulls out a beautiful indigo furisode kimono decorated in a random pattern of bamboo leaves and stems along the lower hem and sleeves.
“Very pretty,” Kakashi’s voice breaks her mute daze.
Looking over to where he stands to her left, she sees him looking at the kanzashi set shaped like violet plum blossoms nestled in the smaller wooden box in his hands. Noticing her attention is on him, he smiles.
“The kanzashi will go very well with the kimono.”
Dropping the garment back into the box Naruto buries her face in her hands with a groan.
“I did warn you about Tsunade being tricky,” he pats her shoulder comfortingly.
Her head snaps up to glare at him. Then without another word she turns and stalks towards her room.
“Naruto? Where are you going?” he asks in confusion.
“Baa-chan hasn’t won yet!” she snaps over her shoulder. “She got me the kimono, but not to the ball!”
Kakashi’s eye widens in surprise as Naruto disappears into her room. Snatching up her coat she flings open the window only to have her escape blocked by Kakashi’s clone crouched on the windowsill. The clone smiles and hops in, sliding the window closed before gently turning her around by the shoulders and steering her out of her room.
“What fucking part of ‘I don’t want to go’ does everyone not get?” she growls in annoyance as they return to the living room.
“I’m sorry, Naruto,” the real Kakashi apologizes while his clone disappears with a puff of smoke. “Tsunade ordered me to ensure you’d go tonight or she’d remind me how creative she can be with her punishments.”
Naruto glares at the kimono before turning away and crossing her arms in a huff. Surprised by her reaction and the ensuing silence Kakashi scrutinizes her tense posture.
“Naruto?” His only answer is silence. “Naruto? What’s wrong? You’re not just angry about being outmaneuvered.”
“Why does it matter?” she mumbles instead. “I’m still doing something I don’t want to. Explaining won’t make a damn bit of difference.”
Kakashi steps closer and places a comforting hand on her shoulder.
“I’d like to know.”
“Doesn’t matter,” Naruto shakes off his hand. Turning towards the table she aggressively stuffs the kimono back in the box, adding, “If I don’t go Baa-chan will just send ANBU to drag me there in the most embarrassing way possible.”
Before she can pick up the boxes, Kakashi grabs her from behind in a hug.
“What’s really bothering you?” he prods.
“Haven’t I been humiliated enough lately?” she snaps in frustration over her shoulder. “I’m not just talking about Genma. The old bags of the council too. Why should I put up with the not so hushed whispers and pointing by rich snobs marveling at my humanity and how tame I am? I’m not a shinobi to them. I’m the beast used to scare the shit out of the other nations. Why should I be the oddity and joke for those snobs too?”
Kakashi continues to hold her, feeling the tension through her body as he rests his cheek against the back of her damp head. He waits to make sure she isn’t going to say more before speaking.
“Tsunade hates hosting the ball for those snobs, but she uses it as an opportunity to show off her people. She’s proud of you and wants everyone to recognize your hard work.”
“C’mon,” she protests, turning in his arms to face him. “They’ll never see it.”
“You’ve put a lot of effort in forcing the world to acknowledge you,” he shrugs. “And Tsunade believes they’ll see it.” When she opens her mouth to protest again, he cuts her off. “I know this is one of those rare times your confidence is low. Don’t let those idiots get to you.”
Naruto looks away guiltily absorbing his words.
“You don’t have to put up with anyone’s bullshit and you’re not going to be there alone. I’ll be there, as will Sasuke, Sakura, Sai and Yamato,” he reminds her. “Besides, you can’t deny it’ll be interesting watching Sasuke in particular handle those idiots for you,” he smirks.
“Yeah,” she snorts in laughter. “Probably.”
“Does this mean you’re going?” he prods, eyeing her uncertainly.
Sighing, she nods before resting her head on his shoulder as she hugs him.
“You’re welcome,” he whispers, hugging her tighter. Pulling back after a few moments, he suggests, “You should hang up the kimono while I make lunch.”
“Okay,” she replies with a soft smile.
With a resigned sigh she gathers everything together and carries them into her room. She returns minutes later to help him. Their chatting comfortably focuses on other things than the ball.
Afterwards, Naruto changes into a spaghetti strap tank top and commandeers the bathroom to work on her hair. Instead of the typical sleek, tidy, boring upsweep, she decides to get creative.
Separating several long clusters along her hairline, she twists the remaining hair into a neat, off center bun with a five-centimeter thick ponytail emerging from the center. She pins the bun in place with hairpins.
Next she takes the loose hair along her hairline and further separates them into smaller clusters. With careful manipulation she crisscrosses them over the rest of her hair and around the twist to resemble the diamond shape of a lattice fence. Where each strip crosses another she pins in place with hairpins. To give more of an impression of flowering blossoms she curls the ponytail emerging from the bun into a cascade of tight little curls.
It takes a couple of hours and a lot of hair product resulting in a pair of sore arms, but she’s pleased with the results while adding the kanzashi to the bun as an elegant finishing touch. After putting everything away and grabbing a book from her room, she finally emerges from the bathroom and heads for the kitchen to get some water, indirectly showing Kakashi the end results.
Glancing up from his usual sprawled position on the sofa as she passes he blinks in surprise.
“You’re hair looks really nice,” he compliments.
“I hope so,” her voice drifts out of the kitchen.
Moments later she reappears, joining him on the sofa when he shifts into a sitting position to lean against the armrest while giving her some room on the end.
“Where’d you learn to do that?” he asks, eyeing the elaborate style.
Deciding to be nice, she props his feet onto her lap before answering.
“Baa-chan gave me a couple of infiltrations where I needed to go high class elegant with the hair.” At his quirked brow blue eyes roll heavenward. “They weren’t seductions,” she explains. “I was the decoy. The rest of the team handled the assassination.” Leaning back and shifting into a more comfortable position she continues. “I gotta admit the infiltrations were a nice change of pace, but not something I’d like to do all the time. It takes a lot to keep in character. And it was a total pain in the ass learning to style my hair like this.”
Kakashi chuckles knowingly, fully aware of how much she hates doing what she calls, ‘girly crap.’
“Exactly,” she nods with a smile, knowing what he’s thinking. “Since I know how to do this and have to go to the damn ball, might as well go for it.”
“It really does looks beautiful on you,” he compliments, causing her to blush slightly.
“Thanks,” she quietly replies, opening up her book.
“What time did you want to show up?” he asks, deciding not to torture her.
“Hmmm,” she muses thoughtfully. “How ‘bout a half hour before dinner? Like at 6:30?”
“Not too early and not where we’ll have to maneuver around the servers to our seats,” he agrees. “It also gives us about three hours to get ready and get there.”
“Neither of us need that long to get ready, but I’ll definitely need help with the kimono. If I do it myself with clones, I just end up either going too tight with the obis or too loose,” she grouses.
“Sure,” Kakashi replies in amusement.
The comfortable silence stretches out as they resume reading. An hour before they have to leave, Kakashi disappears to take a shower. Meanwhile, Naruto puts on a little make-up. Keeping it simple she merely accents her eyes and uses tinted lip-gloss.
After toweling off his hair and brushing it, Kakashi emerges dressed in his kimono. He had it much easier since a man’s kimono is much easier to put on than a woman’s. The haori, like the kimono is a dark, royal blue with the Hatake crest on the chest, shoulders and back of the vest. He wears black and gray striped, deep pleated hakama pants over the lower part of his kimono. Completing the look is a satin eye patch and his ever present mask.
Heading into Naruto’s room he helps her with the part she dreads the most, putting on the kimono. Inwardly she acknowledges they’re beautiful garments, but they’re just not the easiest to put on with all the different parts and layers involved. She also doesn’t consider them the most comfortable things to wear. Kakashi adjusts and ties the necessary belts. When the final obi is in place, he steps back to scrutinize her.
“Tsunade made an excellent choice, Naruto,” he states, his eye sweeping her from head to toe. “You really look stunning.”
“Thanks,” she answers shyly. Smirking, she adds, “You’re looking pretty good yourself. There’ll be a lot of predatory ladies trying to capture your attention.”
“I’m sure you’ll be in the same boat,” he teases back. “We’ll just keep Sasuke close by to shamelessly use as a distraction.” He waits for Naruto to finish laughing before asking, “Are you ready to go?”
“Yeah,” she grins.
Stepping over towards the wall, she deftly slips her feet into her waiting sandals before walking out with him.
“I’m so glad I don’t have to wear a kimono often, it’s a pain in the ass going up and down stairs,” she grouses minutes later when they reach the street. “Why’d you pick an apartment on the sixth floor?”
“It’s easier to leap into the trees from that height than the ground floor,” he explains.
“And here I thought it was for the view,” she grins back, earning an eye roll.
“Are you going to be okay without the mask?”
“Have to be,” she shrugs. “Baa-chan is being a sneaky nag in getting me to this damn thing. I think she’d kill me on sight if I show up in one. That’s okay,” she smirks. “I’ll just use it to guilt her later by bitching about the discomfort I’m enduring.”
Gently threading her arm into his, Kakashi chuckles while guiding her away through the darkened streets.
Neither notice Genma watching them from just outside his doorway of his ground floor apartment. He’s mesmerized by how gorgeous Naruto looks. He always thought she was very pretty, but this is his first time seeing her like this.
“I’m ready,” Kimi’s voice breaks his reverie.
Turning, he watches her pull the door closed.
“Let’s go, I’m hungry,” he states.
He wraps an arm around her waist and steers her in the opposite direction Naruto and Kakashi walk.
“Well, I’m starving,” she huffs. “It’s been one of those days.”
As they walk, she blithely chatters away, complaining about her day. She never notices how Genma keeps looking over his shoulder at the receding backs of Kakashi and Naruto.
Before long Naruto and Kakashi arrive at a building adjacent to the tower. The venue is designed for large, indoor gatherings and special events such as the Hokage’s Ball. Many of the attendees are already there, milling in the antechamber to the banquet hall and the pair blend into the throng.
Kakashi feels Naruto tensing up. He doesn’t fail to notice numerous heads turning and staring appreciatively at the redhead. Understanding it’s only adding to her discomfort being there, he wraps a reassuring arm around her waist and smiles when she looks at him in surprise before relaxing with a smile.
“Naruto! Kakashi!”
Both turn at Sakura’s voice to see her weaving through the crowd with Ritsu in tow. Ritsu wears a dark green kimono sans any embroidered crests. Sakura wears a dark peach colored kimono without the long furisode sleeves with peach blossoms embroidered along the hem. Her short hair is sleeked into a neat, tiny bun.
“I’m surprised you both made it,” she states when they reach the pair.
“Had to. It was a matter of life or death according to Tsunade-sama,” Kakashi quips, eliciting a laugh.
Eyeing Naruto, Sakura smirks at her teammate.
“For someone who wasn’t planning on coming, you sure went all out,” she teases.
Ignoring their two chuckling male companions, Naruto rolls her eyes.
“Blame it on Baa-chan,” she huffs irritably. “She sent the kimono over this morning, threatening Kakashi to make sure I came.”
Sakura and Ritsu laugh while Kakashi smirks knowingly.
“So your duties now include being Naruto’s minder?” Sakura teases her team captain, drawing an irritated glare from said redhead.
“Not so much a minder,” he shrugs. “More like a reality check. Tsunade-sama probably would’ve sent ANBU on a retrieval mission if I didn’t convince Naruto to come willingly.”
They laugh again as Naruto pouts in annoyance. Recovering, Ritsu reaches for her hand, surprising her by planting a kiss on her knuckles.
“Regardless of whether you wanted to come to the ball, you are certainly one of the two most beautiful women I am honored to be in the company of tonight.”
“Awwww!” Sakura coos as he wraps an arm around her waist while a light blush dusts Naruto’s cheeks
“Suck up,” Kakashi mutters.
“Am not!” Ritsu indignantly protests while the ladies laugh.
“Looks like the fun has started without us,” Yamato’s amused voice interrupts.
The four turn as Yamato joins them with Sasuke and Sai. As opposed to the other two men wearing dark blue, unembroidered kimonos, Sasuke sports a black kimono bearing the Uchiha crests.
“So much for your adamant proclamation of not coming tonight, dobe,” Sasuke teases Naruto while eyeing her up and down.
“Shut it, teme,” she grouses.
“You and Sakura both look beautiful,” Yamato observes, attempting to deflect another round of bickering.
“Indeed,” Sai agrees while Sasuke nods.
“I heard the Daimyo will be holding a special presentation sometime after dinner,” Sakura states.
“That’s the rumor,” Kakashi agrees.
“With Naruto attending as well, the night is certainly going to be interesting,” Yamato observes, earning a flat look from Naruto. “How did you end up coming after all?” he asks her in curiosity.
With an annoyed sigh, Naruto fills them in on what happened, completely oblivious to Sasuke’s subtle staring. He’s unable to keep his eyes off her. Obviously she’s uncomfortable with the ogling she’s getting as other guests pass close by. However, he can’t help but agree with their silent appreciation because she looks radiant. He certainly appreciates her using just enough makeup to accent her natural beauty. She doesn’t need that crap in his opinion.
His lingering gaze doesn’t go unnoticed by Kakashi and Yamato. The two exchange a mischievous look promising future torment for the last Uchiha.
Sai notices as well. He calmly stays in the background, partially listening to their conversation while trying to sort through the strange sensations he’s feeling and his conflicting thoughts. He doesn’t understand why his heart sped up and his stomach swooped when he saw Naruto tonight. Randomly an odd thought occurs to him. If anyone were to ask him to define the word ‘stunning,’ he’d answer Naruto as she looks right now.
The artist also can’t help being surprised by his own irritation at Sasuke’s surreptitious staring. It shouldn’t matter how close they may or may not be. According to Danzo-sama’s orders, she will die. He should be thinking of how to effectively utilize the crowd to kill her, but finds it odd he can’t focus enough to formulate an adequate plan.
While team Kakashi continues chatting and teasing each other, many familiar comrades come up to them to exchange greetings and compliments.
Naruto silently wonders what’s so important about the Daimyo’s presentation that prompted Tsunade to put so much effort into getting so many of her top people to attend the ball tonight. She isn’t alone in her opinion the Hokage’s Ball is a waste of time. Every year it’s a race among many ninja to see who could land the missions that’d ensure they’d have to miss the ball. The unlucky ones had to attend. Not that it mattered either way to Naruto. Until tonight she always got away with blowing them off.
It doesn’t take long before she’s no longer surprised when the rest of the K-11 appear to each take their turn to greet them. Silently she muses the Daiymo’s presentation must be a really big a deal for Tsunade to make every last one of them attend. They’ve made a name for themselves as a group, but all of them also shine brightly as individuals.
“Naruto! You made it!” Iruka’s voice breaks into her reverie.
Turning, she blinks in surprise as a formally attired Iruka and Yugao join them.
“I wasn’t given a choice,” Naruto irritably grouses as he hugs her then kisses her cheek. He grins and steps back so Yugao can take her turn while she gripes, “Why didn’t you two say you were coming?”
“Because you were too busy declaring you weren’t and didn’t ask,” Iruka drolly points out earning a flat look from Naruto as Yugao steps back to laugh with the others.
The couple continues exchanging greetings with the rest of the team and stays to chat with them until the banquet hall doors are opened several minutes later. Classical Gagaku music drifts out while the attendees are ushered to their places inside.
To prevent her shinobi from herding together like sheep, Tsunade and Shizune arranged the seating to deliberately spread them out among the visiting dignitaries. Naturally, Naruto is upset to discover she’s not going to sit with any of her teammates. She’s cheered up considerably by Sasuke’s dour expression when he’s informed he has to sit at the long tables set up at the front of the room for the Hokage, her honored guests and the clan elites of Konoha.
As she reluctantly separates from her teammates, she’s pleased when she arrives at a round table seating up to eight to find four faces she knows well in addition to the three unfamiliar civilian dignitaries. Smiling, she greets Kurenai, Ebisu and Nara Shikaku and his wife Yoshino before exchanging greetings with the strangers.
Once everyone is seated, she catches up with her comrades while making sure to politely interact with the civilians seated among them as they progress through the courses. She’s relieved the civilians, a mix of village representatives and government officials, aren’t judgmental snobs. Seated to her left is a young man about her age introducing himself as Kai who seems particularly interested in her.
“I hope you’re not offended, but I’m surprised such a beautiful woman as you is a ninja and not a princess,” Kai smiles at her.
“Thanks,” Naruto replies politely to the teal eyed blond man while trying to ignore the knowing smirks of her comrades.
“Do you travel much to the southwest regions?” he asks.
“Lately, no.”
“Next time you’re in the area and your mission permits it, you should stop by our village,” he eagerly suggests. “My father would be honored to meet you. He holds ninjas in the highest regards, which is why he insisted I attend the ball tonight in his stead so I can see for myself.”
“You should consider visiting on vacation, Naruto,” Ebisu helpfully suggests with a mischievous glint in his eyes, attracting her and Kai’s attention. “The area is famous for its dramatic rock formations and canyons.”
She glares at him, fully aware he’s doing it on purpose.
“At the bottom of one of the grander canyons is a spectacular waterfall and swimming hole great for camping,” Shikaku points out, inwardly smirking when Naruto shifts her glare to him.
“And Kai’s village is famous for its silver crafts and weaving,” Yoshino helpfully adds while barely concealing her teasing grin.
“I’d be happy to give you a guided tour of our village and the surrounding area if you visit, Naruto,” Kai smiles at her charmingly. “Please don’t take it as bragging, but since my father is head of the village it does grant me access to show you things such as our quartz mines. Normally they’re inaccessible to the general public for safety reasons, but are spectacular to see. As a capable kunoichi, I wouldn’t have to worry so much about your safety.”
Kurenai drops her head slightly to bite back a grin before resuming her conversation with the civilian next to her.
“If you’re available, maybe you could show me around Konoha?” he coyly suggests. “I can delay my departure for home tomorrow. It’s my first time visiting and I must say, what little I’ve seen so far is incredible.”
“As fun as that sounds, I can’t,” Naruto politely declines, inwardly vowing to somehow get back at her amused comrades, elite shinobi or not. “I have my duties to fulfill tomorrow.”
“There’s no way to excuse yourself?” he prods.
“No, I’m sorry,” she shakes her head apologetically with slight smile. “Many of my comrades couldn’t attend tonight’s ball because of their duties. It wouldn’t be fair if I shirk mine to have fun when they can’t do the same.”
“That’s too bad,” he wilts slightly in disappointment before cheering up again. “But perhaps I’ll have the chance to come visit Konoha again. Then you may be available to show me around.”
“That would be nice,” Naruto forces a smile.
“Excuse me,” Kurenai interrupts before Kai can reply. “I’m sorry, but I want to ask Naruto this before I forget. I was wondering who did your hair?”
Naruto smiles gratefully at Kurenai before answering.
“I did.”
“Wow,” Kurenai blinks in surprise. “Could you please style my hair for a party I’m attending two nights from now?”
“I think I can squeeze you in,” Naruto quips. At her questioning gaze she smirks, “Ino and Tenten made me promise to do their hair for a couple formal clan functions they have to attend.”
“Any chance of squeezing me in too?” Yoshino asks, prompting Naruto and the others to chuckle.
“Sure, but I’m going to have to start charging if this keeps up,” she smirks.
“You’ll gain a reputation as Naruto, the ninja stylist,” Ebisu teases, causing more laughter.
“With your talent, you’ll certainly have a great career to fall back on if you ever retire,” Kai compliments appreciatively. “You could even set up shop in my village. I know you’d be successful there.”
“Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind,” she forces another small smile through her embarrassment at the sniggers and knowing smirks of the others.
To her immense relief, the conversation shifts focus onto the news and happenings in Konoha as well as throughout Fire Country. While dessert is served, classically trained Bugaku dancers join the band to perform.
Without being obnoxious, Kai explains the different meanings of each dance and the significance of the costumes to Naruto, surprising her with his knowledge. She certainly finds him a lot nicer to be around than the blowhards Koharu and Homura subjected her to during the tea ceremonies. Unfortunately for him, she’s just not interested. After the dancers complete their performance the band takes a break since it’s time for the Daimyo’s presentation.
Dressed in a dark gold kimono that fades into orange than deep red to the hem, Tsunade steps out in front of the main table signaling the room to quiet down.
“I’d like to thank everyone for attending tonight to share a meal with my fellow Konoha shinobi,” she smiles as her gaze wanders the room. “It is an honor and joy to host this annual event.”
Smiling pleasantly, Naruto inwardly snipes, ‘Bullshit!’
“It is an even greater honor to introduce the Daimyo of Fire Country for a special presentation.”
As the crowd applauds, she turns to face the Daimyo patiently standing off to her right and bows deeply before taking a step back as he moves forward to address the crowd.
“Thank you, Tsunade-hime,” the Daimyo begins when the applause dies down. “The Hokage’s Ball is an opportunity for the citizens of Fire Country to engage with the fine shinobi who have protected us for generations. It is a means to briefly lift the shroud of mystery, gaining a deeper understanding of shinobi. In turn, it enables the shinobi to maintain their connection to those outside of Konoha and adjust to the changing needs of the country they serve.”
He pauses to allow his gaze to wander over the crowd.
“Tonight also serves as an ideal opportunity to recognize those shinobi bearing outstanding service records. Arguably, Konoha shinobi have always maintained a high standard of excellence resulting in the extended periods of peace we all have enjoyed for years. A minor downside to such peaceful times is it does not afford shinobi much opportunity to excel above and beyond the call of duty that wartime does.”
“However, to every circumstance there are exceptions. This year happens to be one. I have the privilege of recognizing a handful of proud Konoha shinobi, an entire team if you will, that has demonstrated exemplary conduct and service over the past year.”
Shrewd eyes dramatically rove throughout the room again.
“This team embodies the ‘Will of Fire’ Konoha thrives on. After enduring the loss of one of their original members for several years, the remaining team members persevered before finally successfully recovering him this past year. His teammates supported and encouraged him, clearly demonstrating an unwavering faith in his redemption. They then parlayed this confidence into strengthening their reconstructed team. Within a few short months of reuniting, this team has the highest mission success rate.”
Pausing again for dramatic effect, the Daimyo smiles before continuing.
“For anyone who hasn’t figured it out, the team in question is the former Team 7 now currently known as Team Kakashi. In recognition of their achievements, I am bestowing upon all six members the Fire Country Medal of Excellence and Achievement. Would Team Kakashi please join me.”
As the room erupts in applause, Naruto sits dumfounded in her seat at the turn of events.
“Naruto? Go and join your team,” Ebisu gently prods from his seat to her right, breaking her out of her daze.
“You don’t want to make anyone think you’ve adopted Kakashi’s habit of being late, do you?” Shikaku teases.
Naruto laughs with them before rising from her seat with Kai’s eager help. Thankfully she’s not the last one up there. Yamato gets that dubious honor since he was seated the furthest out in the banquet hall. Kakashi starts the lineup next to Daimyo then Sasuke followed by Sakura with Sai next to Naruto and finally Yamato.
Bearing the medals, Tsunade follows behind the Daimyo as he slowly moves down the line, draping a medal over each one’s heads.
Naruto can’t help beaming. She’s ecstatic Yamato and Sai are being recognized as well, knowing it can’t be easy filling in on an irregular basis, especially one as fractured as theirs. No one else among the rank and file would’ve given Sasuke a second chance, but she’s proud to call these people her teammates and is glad they’re being recognized for it.
After Yamato receives his award the Daimyo turns back to the crowd.
“May I have another round of applause for Team Kakashi!”
The audience boisterously complies, prompting every member of the team to bow deeply in gratitude. When the applause starts subsiding, Naruto steps forward to return to her seat only to be stopped by Yamato resting a hand on her arm, causing her to look at him in confusion.
“The Daimyo’s not done yet,” he leans in to whisper while pulling her back in line next to him.
“One team member in particular deserves separate recognition,” the Daimyo states, preventing Naruto from questioning Yamato. “For years this individual devoted themselves to the preservation and protection of not only Konoha, but all of Fire Country. Driving themselves to succeed beyond expectations and overcoming every obstacle thrown their way, they loyally battled against many powerful enemies that have surfaced over the years. In turn, they steadfastly supported and encouraged their teammates and fellow shinobi to surpass their own boundaries.”
Pausing for effect, the Daimyo smoothes the lapels of his haori.
“Such individuals are the reason the Emperor’s Meritorious Medal of Honor was created. In ancient times when all the elemental lands were united under a single rule, the Emperor believed it was important to recognize and reward those warriors demonstrating unwavering loyalty and outstanding valor on the battlefield. This award was created to honor those shinobi who carry on the traditions of those ancient warriors. The last time I had the privilege of awarding this medal was well over twenty years ago at the close of the Third Great Shinobi War to Namikaze Minato. Tonight, the individual to whom I am awarding this medal to certainly earned their place among such worthy company. I now present the Emperor’s Meritorious Medal of Honor to Uzumaki Naruto.”
Naruto only half listened to the Daimyo’s speech, having decided midway through Kakashi is being awarded the medal. She figures it’s about damn time and wonders why Baa-chan didn’t tell her about it. She would’ve come tonight without all the stupid subterfuge. Realizing the Daimyo finished speaking, she starts clapping with everyone else before Yamato gently stops her hands, causing her to look at him again in confusion.
“Naruto, you’re the one being awarded the medal,” he leans into her ear so she can hear.
He straightens up with a smile, watching her struggle to process his words with a puzzled frown.
“Didn’t he say Kakashi got it?”
“No,” he laughs. “You’re the one who got it.”
Stunned shock slowly seeps through her being as she looks around to see the entire room standing in thunderous ovation punctuated by the cheers from the shinobi scattered across the room.
Overwhelmed, Naruto merely gapes in shock until Yamato gently nudges her to stand next to the patiently waiting Daimyo. She barely registers Tsunade beaming proudly as she hands the Daimyo another medal. He drapes it over her head before turning to face the crowd, signaling for their silence.
“Many are aware of that fateful night when the Yondaime Hokage, Namikaze Minato, sacrificed his life to seal the Kyuubi no Yoko in a newborn child to save Konoha. His dying wish was for the child to be revered as a hero. A sentiment I wholly agree with. Unfortunately, the nature of a Jinchuriki tends to instill fear and paranoia in those unable to separate the guard from the prisoner.”
“To combat this unjust attitude, the Sandaime Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, created a law within Konoha forbidding the truth from being discussed, especially to the next generation. He wished to honor the Yondaime’s last wish and give the child a chance at a happy existence. Unfortunately, the law did not prevent the good people of Konoha who did not understand, nor appreciate, the Yondaime’s skill at sealing from scorning the child. Fortunately for us all, Uzumaki Naruto proved to be of formidable character to rise above it all.”
Naruto can’t resist shifting uncomfortably. Unable to move away from the Daimyo, she feels exposed and vulnerable and really wishes he’d shut the hell up.
“She was instrumental in convincing Uchiha Sasuke to return and resume his status as a Leaf nin,” the Daimyo continues, ignorant of her discomfort. “A feat even he testifies no one else could have accomplished. Her steadfast support inspired her teammates and others to give him a second chance, leading to his successful reacceptance by his peers and neighbors. Her actions embody not only the Will of Fire burning bright in all of us, but also those characteristics prized among the great ancient warriors: loyalty, valor, determination and faith.”
Keen eyes again shrewdly gaze over the audience in emphasis.
“In addition to awarding Uzumaki Naruto this award in gratitude for her service, a new law shall be passed, effective immediately throughout all of Fire Country. As the warden of the Kyuubi no Yoko, no longer will any form of prejudice against her, or any possible future Jinchuriki, be tolerated. Not only is she the hero of Konoha, but she is also the hero of Fire Country and will honored as such.”
Turning to face Naruto, the Daimyo bows deeply to her as the crowd gives her another thunderous standing ovation.
Uncomfortable and overwhelmed by the attention, Naruto glances around in confusion while slowly stepping backwards in preparation to escape. A solid body blocks her retreat, causing her to look over her shoulder at Sai’s genuinely smiling face.
“Congratulations, Naruto.”
That simple sentiment snaps her somewhat from her daze as the rest of her team crowds close around her, acting as a physical shield while she comes to grips with what just happened. Tacitly understanding she needs a few moments, they take turns to hug and congratulate her. Taking their cue from the Daimyo’s example as he moves off to speak to other guests, the rest of the attendees resume mingling and talking animatedly about the presentation as the band begins playing again.
Naruto knows she should be jumping for joy at getting such recognition, but the whole situation feels so surreal and incomprehensible.
“Congratulations, gaki,” Tsunade saunters over and hugs Naruto. “You’re such a pain in the ass to spring a surprise on,” she teases, prompting the small group to laugh.
“It’s even more memorable since she thought Kakashi was receiving the award,” Yamato grins.
“What? No way!” Sakura protests, earning a flat look from the recovering redhead.
“At least we know her surprise is genuine considering how hard it was to keep it a secret,” Tsunade points out to Sakura while smirking at Naruto.
At Naruto’s confused look, the older blonde rolls her eyes.
“A secret is only as secure as the number of people who know it and this one was hard because there were a lot of your friends and comrades who knew it,” she explains. “This award is a big deal so it took all of us to get your ass here, much less make sure most of your other friends were here to witness it.”
“You all knew?” Naruto looks around at her teammates in stunned disbelief.
“Surprise,” Kakashi cheerfully states while everyone laughs.
“You could’ve made the presentation more private instead of all this bullshit,” Naruto grumbles, crossing her arms in irritation.
Wrapping an arm around her shoulders, Tsunade smiles warmly at her.
“What you’ve accomplished deserves a hell of a lot more than this bullshit, gaki.” She gives Naruto a kiss on the forehead. “I better get back to mingling,” she excuses herself before disappearing into the crowd.
“Would you like to go outside for some fresh air, Naruto?” Kakashi suggests, recognizing she needs some space.
“Yeah,” she nods in relief.
However, that suggestion was far easier to make than to carry out. Before she can even step towards the nearest door, a couple of civilians approached to congratulate her and chat. When the conversation drags on, Yamato sets the example by deftly distracting them, allowing Kakashi the chance to guide Naruto towards the exit with the rest following behind.
They don’t get far when another set of civilians stop them. Sasuke takes his turn to distract them. Slowly Naruto creeps through the crowd as her teammates gradually disappear from her side to stay behind as distractions until Kakashi is the only one left with her. Even he has to cede Naruto to Iruka and Yugao to grudgingly take his turn after they come up to congratulate her.
They’re almost to an exterior exit when the three have the misfortune of encountering Gai.
Before Iruka and Yugao can defend her so she can escape, Naruto’s engulfed in a bone crushing hug that lifts her feet off the floor.
“Congratulations on such high honors and indomitably youthful spirit!” he boisterously declares.
Naruto helplessly struggles to breathe as Ino smacks him on the back of the head.
“Put her down so she can breathe, idiot!”
Barely aware of being placed back on her feet, Naruto relishes the sensation of oxygen returning to her system. Iruka keeps a steadying arm around her shoulders while Yugao rubs her back in comfort and both glare at the sheepishly smiling jounin.
“Congratulations, captain!” Ino smiles.
Stepping forward she hugs Naruto far more gently, but still fiercely.
“Thanks, Ino,” Naruto replies, returning the hug.
As she pulls back she notices Choji, Shikamaru and Neji joining their little cluster.
“Now that Gai didn’t accidentally kill you,” Choji teases, stepping forward to kiss her on the cheek before hugging her. “Congratulations, Naruto, it’s way past due. Now you’ve just got to evict Tsunade-sama from office and take over as Hokage.”
“I’m working on it,” Naruto smiles warmly as he releases her.
Neji takes his turn to hug and kiss her, this time on the lips, shocking nearly everyone else in the vicinity at the public display of affection.
“You have again proven what one can accomplish with determination and hard work to guide your own fate,” he states, ignoring the others. “It’s your destiny to succeed.”
“And here we go with another reference to fate on par with Gai’s youthful proclamations,” Shikamaru rolls his eyes while the others laugh. “You don’t know how hard it’s been keeping Ino, Kiba and Konohamaru from spilling the beans about your award,” he states, taking his turn to hug the redhead.
“Don’t lump me in with those two big mouths! I’m not that bad!” Ino protests, earning incredulous brows from certain members of the immediate group.
“The fact remains you didn’t, my love,” Gai soothes, distracting his wife from her outrage.
Ino’s pout morphs into a delighted smile as she grabs onto his arm.
“I don’t know how he manages to get out of the doghouse with Ino as fast as he lands in it,” Iruka muses.
“It’s best not to ponder that too deeply, might leave you psychologically scarred,” Yugao quips, earning quiet laughter from him and the others.
“So not only did my entire team know, but you guys knew about the award too?” Naruto petulantly demands.
“You’re so troublesome,” Shikamaru rolls his eyes with an annoyed sigh as the others nod or smirk. “It was the only way to make sure no one would get creative in backing out of attending the ball.”
“Once we knew, none of us wanted to miss your big moment, Naruto,” Choji smiles.
“As it were, Konohamaru and Kiba were plotting to set fire to the eastern forests as a means of backing out of tonight,” Neji rolls his eyes.
“But it’s nearly impossible to start a wildfire in the middle of winter,” Naruto frowns in confusion. “That’s too stupid even for them.”
“This is Kiba and Konohamaru we’re talking about,” Ino smirks. “They were determined to try.”
“Once Tsunade-sama clued everyone in, all attempts to weasel out of being here stopped,” Iruka explains. “It was too important and no one wanted to miss out on it.”
“Thanks, guys,” Naruto smiles warmly. Shifting to a pointed glare, she adds, “But you’re all still a bunch of jerks keeping it from me.”
As they break again into laughter, Iruka rolls his eyes before pressing a fond kiss to her cheek.
“C’mon, you wanted some fresh air, let’s get you outside,” he suggests.
Nodding, she waves at the others while he and Yugao gently guide her away. To her great annoyance they don’t get far before encountering Inoichi. Returning his hug, Naruto silently wonders if her entire torso will be bruised by morning.
“I suppose I shouldn’t just be congratulating you, but Tsunade-sama as well for succeeding in pulling a fast one on you, Naruto,” Inoichi teases after releasing her.
“Well intentioned or not, Baa-chan’s so gonna get some payback,” Naruto teasingly threatens while the others laugh.
“How are you feeling about the award?” he asks.
“I’m not really sure,” she reluctantly admits, causing Iruka to frown at her. “It’s nice knowing everyone seems genuinely happy for me, even comrades I hardly know, but I kinda feel like someone’s gonna tell me it’s all a joke.”
Outraged, Yugao opens her mouth to protest, but despite sharing the same feelings, he places a gently restraining hand on her arm, giving her a look to let Inoichi handle it.
“You’ve admitted you accomplished a lot you wished others outside of your friends would notice,” Inoichi points out. “Don’t you think it’s time you got officially acknowledged?”
“Yeah,” Naruto reluctantly concedes. “It’s just hard accepting now that it’s finally happened. I don’t know how to deal with it.”
“Give it time,” he smiles encouragingly. “Y’know,” he begins nonchalantly. “It’s been awhile since you’ve stopped by to see me. You do remember my door is always open to you?”
“Yeah, I remember,” Naruto frowns in confusion. “But I haven’t needed to stop by.”
“Does there have to be a need?” he chuckles.
“Kinda, ‘cause it seems stupid to bug you about nonsense.”
Inoichi sighs and shakes his head.
“It’s a lot easier to share the nonsense than to let everything pile up until the pressure becomes too much,” he points out. “I’ve heard a lot of rumors and know you’ve had a lot to deal with, especially with Sasuke’s return. So you can’t deny life has been a little stressful lately.”
Naruto’s only answer is to look away guiltily.
“Why don’t we continue this conversation outside where it’s more private?” Iruka suggests.
“Good idea,” Inoichi agrees and joins them.
Within minutes Iruka and Yugao end up becoming distractions to additional well wishers. Just as Inoichi and Naruto nearly make it to an exterior exit Jiraiya steps out of the shadows.
“Well don’t you put the nobility to shame, kid,” he grins.
“Ero-sennin?” Naruto gapes in shock as he engulfs her in a hug.
“The one and only, congratulations, kid!”
“I never expected to see you tonight,” she grins as he steps back from hugging her. “You’re as allergic to the ball as I am.”
Jiraiya busts out laughing before smirking at her.
“Damn right, but I made the exception since it’s my student’s big night.”
“Yeah right,” Naruto scoffs, surprising Inoichi. “How much torture did Baa-chan have to threaten you with? ‘Cause there’s no way you’d ever willingly come.”
“I’m hurt you don’t believe me,” he protests, holding a hand to his chest as if wounded. “I wanted to come the moment Tsunade told me.”
“Uh-huh,” Naruto states disbelievingly while crossing her arms. “I call bullshit. You refused to come to Baa-chan’s inaugural banquet when she became Hokage, and she’s your teammate.”
“Way to ruin the illusion,” Jiraiya wilts, giving her flat look while Inoichi gapes incredulously at him. “Tsunade said I’d be spending the first three months of the New Year in traction and all the onsens would be shut down indefinitely if I didn’t come.”
“Knew it,” Naruto smirks.
“That’s neither here nor there, though,” he waves off dismissively. “It’s not like the onsens are open during the holidays anyways. Since I can’t do any research and had nothing better to do, I might as well come to your big night.”
“A pervert’s work is never done,” Naruto mutters while rolling her eyes.
“Absolutely!” he grins. “So where are you two going?” he asks curiously.
“Um, outside for some air,” Naruto admits reluctantly. “Feeling a little claustrophobic and been trying to step outside for the last hour.”
“You’re not feeling out of it because of little public attention again, are you?” he demands incredulously. When she looks guilty he rolls his eyes. “You need to get over these weak little girl moments because you’re a hell of a lot stronger than that.”
Inoichi can’t resist glaring at the sannin. He finally sees firsthand Jiraiya’s backhanded treatment Naruto had complained about for years. Glancing over at Naruto, he notices her smile dim as she remains quiet.
“Why don’t you try acting like a gentleman for once instead of a nuisance and open the door so she can go outside?” he tersely suggests to the white haired man.
“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” Jiraiya bristles indignantly.
Inoichi only answers with an eye roll while guiding Naruto around the glaring sannin and out the door.
Huffing in irritation, Jiraiya follows them into the brisk night air, coming to stand on part of a walkway circling the building.
“I’m just stating the truth,” Jiraiya grouses defensively.
“The truth as you see it,” Inoichi pins him with a cold glare. “Where do you get off scolding her for naturally feeling overwhelmed at receiving such high accolades from the Daimyo? You had to be threatened to attend your own student’s special night.”
“Don’t get your feathers all ruffled, Inoichi,” Jiraiya scoffs dismissively. “Naruto knows I’m not the hand holding type and have never coddled her. She doesn’t need me to say she did great. And I didn’t go when Minato got the award, but Tsunade insisted I’m come to the gaki’s. She’s a tough kunoichi, so a big crowd and little attention shouldn’t bother her. She should relax and enjoy what she earned.”
Inoichi watches Naruto staring silently into the darkness while Jiraiya speaks. When he finishes, she turns and smiles at them both.
“Yeah, for once Ero-sennin’s right.” She smirks at his flat look, adding, “The whole thing’s a surprise and Baa-chan got me good. I was just getting tired of those snobby blowhards. Made the room feel stuffy and I just wanted to get away for a bit.”
“I don’t blame you,” Jiraiya laughs, patting her hard on the back. “I thought you were turning into a sissy flake on me.”
Inoichi silently watches her raise her walls while Jiraiya continues ignoring reality. The approach of two figures coming around the building distracts them.
“What trouble are you two up to?” Jiraiya asks Raido and Ibiki as they join them.
“Something unfamiliar to you called ‘duty’ and ‘responsibility’,” Ibiki retorts. “Don’t strain yourself trying to comprehend the unknown, Jiraiya-sama.”
Inoichi, Raido and Naruto laugh at Jiraiya’s flat look thrown at an unaffected Ibiki. Stepping closer, Ibiki gently grasps Naruto by the shoulder to kiss her on the cheek.
“Congratulations on your awards and succeeding despite your low quality instructors outside of Iruka.”
“Hey!” Jiraiya indignantly protests as the others break up laughing again.
“Kakashi’s going to take exception to that comment,” Raido drolly states, pulling Naruto into a hug. “Congrats, Naruto. You look incredible tonight.”
“Thanks, guys,” Naruto replies, trying hard not to blush.
“Kakashi can take exception all he likes,” Ibiki retorts to Raido. “He can’t deny teaching isn’t one of his better skills.” Turning back to Naruto, he adds, “In my opinion you should’ve been recognized years ago, but they never ask my opinion.”
“Probably because they’re scared of your opinion,” Inoichi quips, earning a scowl from the scarred man while the others laugh.
“I take it since you guys are on security detail you witnessed my public humiliation?” Naruto asks.
“Of course,” Ibiki smirks. “There’s always the potential of something coming from any such event that might be useful against you later.”
Naruto rolls her eyes.
“So is this part of your punishment detail for the knock down with Genma?” Jiraiya blithely asks Raido and failing to notice Naruto tensing in discomfort.
“Yes,” Raido nods. Like the others, he did notice her reaction, choosing his words carefully. “But it’s not much of a punishment. It would’ve been if Tsunade-sama made me attend the ball.”
To his relief Naruto sniggers with the others at his quip.
“Is there any chance of finally convincing you to join T&I in the New Year, Naruto?” Ibiki not so subtly changes the subject.
“You’re trying to recruit Naruto?” Jiraiya incredulously asks while the others gape in surprise.
“Of course,” Ibiki states as if it’s obvious. “Naruto’s a natural for it. She reads people very well and knows how to mess with them enough to get the reaction she wants and the information she needs. I’m even more convinced of her suitability since convincing Uchiha Sasuke to return.”
“Why would that convince you?” Inoichi asks, cocking his head slightly in curiosity.
“She convinced him to cooperate and divulge what he knew about Orochimaru and the Akatsuki,” Ibiki explains. “I didn’t get to play as much as I usually do. I’d even go so far as saying it was one of the easiest interrogations I’ve ever conducted.”
Raido, Inoichi and Jiraiya turn to gape incredulously at Naruto.
“What?” she asks in confusion. “It wasn’t hard convincing him since I know the teme so well.”
“What do you mean you know him so well?” Jiraiya demands. “You’ve hardly seen him in eight years and when you did he tried obliterating your ass!”
“Which is exactly why I want her for T&I,” Ibiki states, drawing Jiraiya’s baffled gaze to him.
“It’d be a nice change from being out in the field all the time,” Naruto admits, surprising the other men even more. “Especially now that I’m out of ANBU. But I’ve still gotta say ‘no.’” Boring into Ibiki’s eyes in emphasis, she adds, “I’ve got other projects demanding my attention. It’s better working on that between missions than trying to learn a new position, particularly one as demanding as T&I.”
“Understood,” Ibiki nods. “The offer will remain open indefinitely for you should you change your mind.” He looks at Raido. “We need to make another couple of passes for show.”
“For show?” Jiraiya arches a brow.
“We’re the decoy,” Ibiki quietly states. “Should anyone decide to try something after we pass they won’t notice the security detail hiding in the shadows until it’s too late.” Refocusing on Raido, he orders, “Go on ahead and I’ll follow in a few minutes to add a little extra confusion.”
“Yes, sir,” Raido replies. “Catch you guys later,” he waves before leaving them alone.
“I better go back inside and make an appearance so I can leave this dog and pony show for the night, otherwise Koharu and Homura will bitch about it to Baa-chan,” Naruto states, arching her back in a stretch.
“Are you still worried about those two old bags?” Jiraiya asks before rolling his eyes at her guilty look. “You’re not in T&I yet, so stop being paranoid. They don’t have any sort of power to do anything to you.”
Inoichi glares at the sannin before softening his expression for Naruto.
“Before you go, promise you’ll stop by to see me after New Years or I’ll get Tsunade-sama to order a psyche eval,” he smirks at the redhead.
“Fine, I promise,” she huffs, her grin belying her false irritation as she disappears inside the building.
Arching a brow, the blond turns to gaze pointedly at Jiraiya.
“What?” the sannin asks with a frown. “Upset I called her paranoid? She is if she thinks those two old farts can hurt her.”
“It doesn’t matter if you think she’s being unnecessarily paranoid,” Inoichi rolls his eyes. “It matters what she believes and your attitude dismissing her as being unrealistic is damaging.”
“How?” Jiraiya challenges.
Groaning, Inoichi rubs a frustrated hand down his face.
“You know how she is,” he crosses his arms to meet Jiraiya’s gaze. “She’ll hold everything in. Not sharing her concerns, fears and anger. Bottling all that up is dangerous, especially in her case. However, she’s not going to share any of that to relieve the pressure if the people she trusts and cares for the most dismiss her like you’re doing.”
“Quit being dramatic and fatalistic,” Jiraiya scoffs. “Like I said, I don’t coddle or hand hold. She’s tough like her father.”
“I’m not saying to coddle her,” Inoichi tersely replies. “But your backhanded approach is eroding her confidence, not bolstering it.”
“And Naruto isn’t far off the mark regarding the councilors,” Ibiki points out before Jiraiya can retort.
The sannin turns his puzzled gaze onto the younger man while Inoichi eyes his comrade with interest.
“They’ve always disagreed with the Sandaime’s policies towards Naruto,” the scarred interrogator explains. “When words didn’t sway him, they actively interfered where they could. They also closely scrutinized every aspect of her life, searching for a reason to secure her away from the general populace for safety reasons. At least they didn’t want Danzo to take custody of her,” he shrugs, ignoring Jiraiya’s stunned expression. “It wasn’t so much being opposed to his training methods as much as being concerned whether she’d become a threat afterwards since they didn’t believe she retained enough humanity after the sealing. They’ve even told Naruto as much, saying the Yondaime’s seal was only a temporary fix and he expected the Sandaime to secure her in infancy for the safety of the village.”
“They said what about Minato?” Jiraiya growls low at Ibiki.
“You heard me,” Ibiki continues unperturbed. “They played on Naruto’s desire to become Hokage and protect the village. Because of their games, the Sandaime suspected them in her kidnapping when she was nine. It’s how I know so much. The Sandaime ordered me to investigate his former teammates.”
“Did you find any evidence of their involvement?” Inoichi asks intrigued since this is the first time he’s hearing all this.
“No,” Ibiki shakes his head. “I found nothing to show they violated Naruto’s rights. Obviously they haven’t changed their intentions if the recent debacle with the tea ceremonies is any indication. Tsunade-sama asked me to keep an eye on the pair. They aren’t happy she’s grooming Naruto as her successor. We both agree the two will do everything they can to ensure Naruto does not become Hokage.”
Inoichi turns to study the sannin for a moment, watching the white haired man remain deep in thought.
“Still think Naruto is being paranoid?”
“It’s a lot to think about,” Jiraiya finally answers before walking off into the darkness.
“So much for admitting he’s wrong,” Inoichi muses aloud.
Ibiki merely offers a knowing smirk before he follows after Raido. Shaking his head, Inoichi heads back into the banquet hall.
Naruto continues mingling for another hour. Not that she didn’t make the effort to leave sooner, but the moment she returned from outside she endured a steady stream of well wishers before finally making back to the table.
“I’m so happy you got acknowledged!” Yoshino gushes, squeezing the life out of Naruto with her vice like hug.
Shikaku calmly pulls his wife off to Naruto’s immense relief.
“Congratulations, Naruto,” he calmly smiles at the redhead while ignoring his scowling wife.
“Thanks,” Naruto grins as Kai joins them.
“You are a very impressive woman, Naruto,” Kai smiles. “Obviously you’re a strong kunoichi, but I never suspected you were a Jinchuriki too. It’s an honor to be seated next to you during the banquet.”
Forgetting her irritation at her husband, Yoshino shares a knowing smirk with him while Naruto endures Kai’s flirting. Eventually she manages to slip away to seek out Kakashi. She finds him lurking in the shadows of a far corner with Yamato, Yugao and Iruka.
“Okay, Baa-chan successfully pulled one over on me,” she states when all four look on as she approaches. “I played nice, got dressed up and am grateful for the awards. Can I go home now?” she asks plaintively, causing them to laugh.
“Hmmm, I guess so,” Kakashi pretends to reluctantly agree.
Giving him the evil eye, she accepts another round of hugs and congratulations from the others before leaving the banquet with Kakashi.
Both walk the entire way home in a comfortable silence. Kakashi knows she’s still reeling. Despite the desire to be recognized, she’s not used to it. He’s happy she’s getting this long overdue recognition and hopes it’ll help her let go of her misconceptions that few villagers accept and respect her. Even the holdouts are likely to be won over at the news the Daimyo has honored her.
Kakashi still holds the general opinion awards are unnecessary. A true ninja’s worth should be measured by their own self-respect along with the respect of their comrades. However, he doesn’t deny it’s a nice ego boost to get such accolades from time to time.
As soon as they step through the front door of their apartment, Naruto slides her sandals off with a deep sigh.
“Happy to be home?” he asks with a chuckle.
“Hell yeah,” she smirks. “Now I can take off this kimono and jump in show so I can go back to being plain ol’ Naruto.”
He frowns slightly at her tone. He’s uncertain what it could mean, but decides to leave it alone for now.
“Do you need help untying the obis?” he asks.
“Nah, I got it,” she smiles.
“Alright, goodnight.”
“Goodnight,” she waves, disappearing down the hallway.
He sighs deeply into the empty living room before heading towards his bedroom, realizing this is one of those times he should leave her alone for now.
5 cm = 2 in
Furisode kimono- A long sleeved style of kimono worn by unmarried young women.
Hakama-Basically a long skirt that if divided, like what Kakashi is wearing, resemble wide legged pants.
Haori-Basically a jacket that’s styled like a kimono worn over a kimono to help keep it clean.
Kanzashi-Hair ornaments. They go from elaborate prongs or sticks to combs to the dangly chime looking ornaments you see Japanese women wearing with their kimono.
Gagaku music- Ancient Japanese imperial court music.
Bugaku-Ancient Japanese dance featuring elaborate Buddhist costumes formerly performed strictly for nobility.
Obi-Basically a belt.
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Underneath The Leaves