The following day brought Shiki into town, where her cousins took her out to their usual hangout for karaoke. Kunie had rented out the room for the five of them and Chitose had a rather lively time ordering food and drinks. Chihiro was a little stressed out trying to keep his older brother from going over their budget and Chiaki…fell asleep on the couch, with his head resting on Shiki's lap.
It was rather strange, in the sense that Shiki was seeing some other form of technology (the karaoke equipment) that wasn't from the hospital. She still hadn't quite figured out the proceedings for technological advancements and, at this point, she would rather not search for it. Technology as a whole was rather confusing in the world of Naruto and Shiki decided that she was better off acknowledging that things either existed or not. After all, it held not much importance to her in the long run—not when she had people to save.
For now, Shiki was content just trying to figure out what eye color her triplet cousins possessed. Ever since she had seen Shinobu's eyes, as well as Kunie's eyes, Shiki had grown rather curious about the triplets' eyes. It would at least give her some insight on what possible eye colors her Great-Aunt Shiki and Great-Uncle Naomi could have.
Based on the observations she had made, Shiki could tell that the triplets took after their mother the most, having inherited her dark green hair and facial features, as well as the fact that they were all shinobi, like her. All the triplets had inherited from their civilian father was his olive skin.
And even though Naomi wasn't an Aburame by blood (nor was he native to Konoha), having been adopted into the clan at a young age, he still wore a pair of sunglasses, which is why Shiki had never seen his eyes. When Shiki had asked why, Naomi just mentioned that it made him feel more connected to the clan that had taken him in when he was found during a mission, crying because was lost and alone.
Shiki certainly had a lot more to learn about her clan, but for what it was worth, she wasn't unhappy with what she discovered. But it just made her even sadder, considering what she had learned from Kunie and Shinobu—it made Shiki worried about anyone else in her clan getting hurt by others.
"Are you okay, Shiki?" Chiaki had certainly startled Shiki when he suddenly spoke as she continued to stare at his face. When had he woken up? "You seem a bit distressed…"
"Umm…what color are your eyes?" Shiki bit her lip. She didn't know what else to say, and she most certainly didn't want to bring up serious topics. Besides, now that Chiaki was awake, it seemed her mind latched onto the idea of possibly seeing her cousin's eyes. "I-If you do not mind…may I?"
There was just something inside of Shiki that kept urging her to just take Chiaki's sunglasses off his face. It was so tempting, but Shiki didn't want to be rude.
"Is that it?" A gentle smile crossed Chiaki's face. "If it'll make you better, then go ahead…"
Without even waiting a second longer, Shiki removed Chiaki's sunglasses and found herself staring into a pair of differently colored eyes—one an intense blue, the other a light green, both of which were embellished with thick lashes of dark green. The way the light reflected off Chiaki's eyes made them appear as if though they were glowing.
"Wow…" Shiki breathed, utterly amazed with what she was seeing. Heterochromia was something she always found amazing and just to see it in person, for herself, was just…she was speechless.
It was at that moment that music started playing and not long after that, Kunie started singing, her voice and the music syncing together in what Shiki felt was perfect harmony. She had never thought someone could sing so beautifully…nor did she ever think someone could chug down a glass of juice so fast, like her cousin, Chitose, just did. Chihiro certainly wasn't amused as he pointed out, to Chitose, that there were straws. Chitose just flicked a peanut at Chihiro, laughing when it hit him right in the forehead.
"I want to just start running and leap all the way to tomorrow,
Doo doo do,
Oh oh o-o-o-o!"
These were her cousins…a small handful out of the many that lived in the compound, but still part of her family. And Shiki couldn't be any happier, because right now…everything was fine.
And nothing hurt.
"Even if yesterday's sunrise isn't there,
Doo doo do,
That's okay, that's all okay…"
…
…
Obito had only meant to play today. He had no classes, the soreness had become bearable, and it was just a really nice day outside. It had been a while since Obito had left his apartment to go to the playground. He always played alone, since he had a hard time talking to the other children—civilian children, especially. He never minded. Or rather—he just didn't care, because, for a brief period of time, he felt that everything was fine.
Because he wasn't completely alone in that apartment room of his…nor did he have to face the reality that he was on his own. He was five years old and just another child amongst the many that swarmed the playground at the start of each week, when classes of any sort were not in session.
It made Obito feel…free. Free from anything that could hurt him…and he wouldn't have it any other way.
Except—on his way to the playground, Obito had come across an old woman, struggling with the load of groceries she had finished buying. No one paid much attention to her, just walking past her, while he just stood there, staring.
"Why isn't anyone helping her?" Obito was used to seeing the Uchiha, who were like him, caring for their elderly caretakers.
Whether it was for something difficult or something just so trivial, they still did whatever was needed to be done, whether they were asked for help or not. Because it was respectful of them to do so—because their caretakers had cared, when no one else did, so when it was time to return the favor, they did so without asking for anything in return. Just knowing that someone cared was enough…it was always enough.
So to see this old woman in particular, go on without any help—it threw off Obito. It really threw him off. And it also made him feel bad, because the old woman seemed to be around the same age as the couple who had raised him. To just keep watching her like this was as though he was ignoring his caretakers…and he couldn't have that.
"There's still enough time to play," was what Obito thought to himself as he helped the old woman out with her groceries. He walked with her all the way to her house, carrying her groceries that were a little heavier than he had expected them to be—but he didn't complain. All he did was respond back to her when she had started talking to him. It took his mind off the weight of the groceries he was carrying, that he was surprised that he made it all the way to the woman's house without struggling once.
He was even more surprised that he followed the old woman into her house and helped her put away her groceries. He was wasting so much time that he could have spent playing at the playground, helping an old woman he had only just met…
But it didn't bother him.
"Why?" It was a question that was most definitely on Obito's mind as he started rearranging the way the old woman had everything in her kitchen—so that she could easily access it without any issues. He made sure things were in her reach, that nothing was either too high or too low.
And right after that, he helped her with her dishes. One thing always led to another and Obito just found that he couldn't stop.
…
It was late in the afternoon when Obito finally left the old woman's house. His hands were filthy, as were his pants, from kneeling down onto the ground to pull out weeds in the old woman's garden. He was exhausted, as well as somewhat frustrated that he no longer had much time to play today—not when he had spent most of it helping that old woman.
And yet, Obito does not feel regret whatsoever as he slips a hand into his pocket to feel the cool glass of the corked bottle he had been given by the old woman as a gift of gratitude. Inside the bottle were numerous pieces of colorful konpeitō—an expensive candy that Obito had always wanted to try, but never had the extra funds to do so.
Instead of regret, all Obito feels is happiness—happiness and a sense of recognition.
…
…
It was so subtle—like if you blinked, you would miss it. But Rin could see it so clearly, how Obito looked so content when he entered the classroom this morning. She never asked any questions, of course. She was satisfied just noticing.
That was why she continued to observe Obito, as she usually did because she wanted to see if anything else had changed. Because maybe, just maybe, it would help her find an opening to give Obito the nudge he needed to either apologize or get along with Kakashi.
He was getting better and Rin could tell. That was why she was so determined to continue what she was doing, which was keeping these three classmates of her together. She knew she was the one linking them together, being both Obito and Shiki's friend. She had always been an observant girl.
If Rin hadn't been so observant, then she wouldn't have helped her father out when he had taken her to the hospital, so that she could see him at work. She wouldn't have discovered how much medical ninjutsu was intriguing on that day. And had that not happened, she wouldn't have seen medical ninjutsu the same way she did now and instead, would have seen it as something she was obligated to learn, as someone from the Nohara clan.
It was the little details that most people would overlook that Rin never took for granted…and she was glad. And even though she wasn't as smart as Kakashi, she knew that being not as smart didn't mean ignorant.
Kakashi might have known more than Rin could possibly know now, at her current age… But Kakashi wouldn't know how to keep a fish out of water alive for more than five minutes. Nor would he know more about the human body other than the locations of the vital points (Rin had heard from Shiki regarding how Kakashi had been helping her improve her aim with kunai and made inferences from there). And the reason why was simple—because he wasn't required to have that knowledge on him.
But Rin did and with each passing week, her chakra control improved. Her body was slowly adjusting to the exhaustion that came with each exercise she was given. Eventually, there would come a day when she would learn the Mystical Palm Jutsu. But until then, Rin still had a lot to learn and even afterwards, she would still have more to learn.
Because one never stopped learning, no matter how much of an expert a person was. So rather than fret over what she didn't know, as most students her age would (and it was sad that they did), Rin was content with what she already knew—even if it wasn't much. After all, she was only four and so much could happen within the span of a year, if the past month had taught her anything when she first came across Shiki.
Speaking of Shiki, here she came—smiling as usual, even though most wouldn't notice because of the way her face was nearly hidden. But Rin noticed and she was satisfied with just that.
…
…
Come lunchtime, Obito managed to surprise Kakashi, as well as Rin and Shiki, when he offered the silver-haired boy some of the konpeitō he had in the glass bottle he had brought with him. It was one thing when Obito had shared with Rin and it was certainly another when Obito decided to do the same with Shiki…but Kakashi? Obito didn't like Kakashi…and the feeling most definitely mutual.
Knowing that raised the question of why. And Kakashi would have asked had Shiki not nudged him. Though she said nothing, Kakashi could tell she just wanted him to accept Obito's offer without any question. So he did and his eyes were now focused on the colorful spiky balls of sugar that were in the palm of his right hand.
Kakashi wasn't a fan of sweets…nor was he a fan of fried food, but he most definitely did not like anything sweet. Of course, under Shiki's expectant stare, he didn't have much of a choice…nor did he want to give Obito another reason to call him rude. As for Rin…well, he didn't have much to say about her, since she was more preoccupied with Obito and Shiki.
…
Konpeitō was surprisingly flavorless, for looking so colorful. It was also hard and tasted like sugar—in fact, it probably was sugar. It boggled Kakashi's mind, as he continued to crunch down on the piece of konpeitō in his mouth, that Obito had mentioned how expensive it was.
"Maybe the way it's made?" Kakashi could only guess for now and if he were to be honest, he didn't exactly hate konpeitō…surprisingly. There were only a select number of sweets Kakashi could stomach without showing any distaste. Konpeitō turned out to be one of them.
Kakashi still didn't know why Obito had even bothered to share with him. And it confused him when he realized that Rin hadn't even said anything to Obito—the Uchiha had done it on his own.
"Strange…" Now if only Obito would apologize, then maybe Kakashi would try to get along.
For now, this was fine…things were changing, and Shiki seemed happy because Rin was happy. As for Kakashi—well, he certainly wasn't disliking anything.
…
…
Sakumo was having a slightly distressing time as he endured a scolding from one of the many Genin that were cleaning the Hatake residence. She was an eight-year-old girl with long, curly black hair and wore oval-shaped glasses with opaque lenses. She was shorter than he was, but she was certainly taller than he had last remembered she was. She was also not as thin nor as malnourished, but that was something better left unsaid about unwanted memories Mochizuki Suzume had before Sakumo had found her during one of his missions a few years ago.
While it was nice to see that the orphan he had rescued and given to the Mochizuki clan was hale and hearty, Sakumo would have rather met again under different circumstances. After all, there were better ways to discover that Suzume was a germaphobe.
There were also better ways to remember how it was that Aburame Shinjiro earned his Jounin promotion. And Sakumo could have done without the nasty shock the Aburame had given him this morning, after he had dropped off Kakashi at the Academy. Sakumo honestly had no idea how Shinjiro managed to sneak up on him without him noticing. And the kikaichū—they were everywhere.
Shinjiro was not a force to be reckoned with and Sakumo was starting to understand why the Aburame was referred to as wasted potential in the gossip he had heard around town. Speaking of Shinjiro, the Aburame was currently just standing there, watching Sakumo get chewed out by an eight-year-old girl who was on the verge of tears because of the amount of filth she had to clean up. She was in such a frazzled state that she started to repeat herself in a manner that had Sakumo concerned.
Fortunately, Shinjiro seemed to have an idea of what to do as he picked up Suzume by the waist and carried her outside for some fresh air. Less than fifteen minutes had passed before he returned, holding Suzume by the hand as she walked by his side. She appeared much calmer than before, despite the fact that she was sniffing every few moments or so.
"Keep clean?" Suzume asked Shinjiro after the two had stopped in front of Shinjiro.
"Keep clean," Shinjiro said firmly. "I will make sure of that."
Feeling satisfied with what she heard, Suzume released Shinjiro's hand and walked off. As soon as Suzume was out of earshot, Sakumo sighed loudly in relief. It was at that instant that Shinjiro suddenly spoke to Sakumo, nearly causing the older man to choke on his spit.
"You are going to have to make it a habit to put in requests to keep this place clean after all of this." Shinjiro's visor sunglasses gleamed eerily in the light.
"R-Right…" Sakumo swallowed hard as a small bead of sweat rolled down the side of his face. He had almost forgotten how forceful Shinjiro could be, considering what the Aburame had done in order to ensure that the Hatake residence was cleaned.
Really, it was amazing that Shinjiro had managed to place a request at the Mission Assignment Desk without Sakumo's knowledge. Of course, Sakumo was under different orders when it came to accepting missions, usually waiting for any messages that came his way from the Sandaime. So it wasn't that unlikely that Shinjiro was able to do what he had done, now that Sakumo thought more about it.
"I know you must not want to seem like a burden to others, but it is quite fine to ask for help every once in a while," Shinjiro remarked. "So do feel free to ask for assistance, because you have family that is willing to assist. Otherwise, I will take matters into my own hands—understand?"
"I…understand." Sakumo had certainly learned his lesson.
"Also, you are not allowed to reimburse the costs I will cover," Shinjiro was quick to add.
"Wh-What?!" Sakumo could not believe what he was hearing. "Oh no—you are not doing this!"
Sakumo had his limits to how much charity he could accept. But Shinjiro had absolutely no limits, whatsoever, when it came to his concern for others. Sakumo might have known this, but he still tried anyways, despite knowing that it was of no use.
No matter how many years have passed, there were just some things that refused to change. And even though Sakumo was apprehensive about it, deep down…he appreciated it.
…
…
Shiki had almost forgotten what had made her so hesitant to attend Meme-sensei's advanced kunoichi class—almost. Then she finally noticed what had changed in the past week, now that Meme-sensei's class had moved away from toxicology to music. It was only her second week into this particular class, but Shiki could tell something had changed and it had nothing to do with Kushina. If anything, Kushina might have been the reason why it took Shiki much longer to notice.
But she still noticed and what she noticed was that her classmates had stopped talking to her altogether. They paid her no attention, even though in the past month, they had all but left her alone when she stood out as the only first year in Meme-sensei's class. Shiki was on her own again…or she would have been, had Kushina not been there.
"Is something wrong?" Kushina's voice snapped Shiki out of her thoughts. "You just stopped playing-ttebane."
Kushina was frowning, appearing concerned for Shiki. Shiki was almost ready to respond as though nothing was wrong, but she stopped to think for a moment…and then decided to tell Kushina what was on her mind. While it was nice to have someone to voice her observation to, Shiki was worried about how Kushina was going to react.
Would Kushina tell her she was overreacting? Shiki didn't know, but she was already preparing herself for the dreaded response. And yet…it never came.
Instead, Kushina's expression dimmed. "Sorry—it's probably because of me-ttebane."
Why is she blaming herself?
"I…tend to drive people away." Kushina tucked a lock of red hair behind her ear. "They don't like me much…except for you, but now—they're avoiding you too-ttebane. All because of me…"
Stop talking like that.
"I should have realized that this would happen." Kushina laughed weakly. "But I guess I got a little selfish."
Please—stop.
"You probably shouldn't even be hanging out with a person like me-ttebane." Kushina averted her gaze. "I'm not really a nice person—maybe I should just leave—"
Stop!
"Huuhh?!" Kushina froze still when a pair of arms wrapped around her waist, a face burying itself into her side. "Wha…?"
"Stop…" Shiki's voice was firm, albeit muffled.
"Stop?" Kushina repeated, perplexed with Shiki's sudden behavior. "Stop what? A-Are you okay-dattebane? Please don't cry!"
Shiki wasn't crying…she was not crying. There was nothing in her eyes—her chest just hurt. It hurt because of the way Kushina was talking about herself—that was all. That's all it was.
And Shiki wanted it to stop.
"I do not care if you are selfish…" Shiki had never even thought Kushina was selfish. "Or if you are the reason the others have left me alone. All I care is that you stay and that you stop talking like that—so can you? Please?"
…
…
"Okay," was all Kushina could say as she wrapped her arms around the Aburame. This was probably the first time since last week that Kushina had engaged in any sort of physical contact with Shiki beyond a simple pat on the head. "I'll stop."
There was something completely different about Kushina that Shiki couldn't exactly describe. It was just a feeling she had—a feeling that only intensified when Kushina's hair began to fly wildly in the air. Kushina was most likely responding to the numerous stares she and Shiki were receiving from the others. At least, Shiki assumed they were being stared at, because she could hear her classmates whispering to each other again.
It was just like last time, when Kushina and Shiki first met—except this time, Shiki actually touched Kushina's hair. She couldn't help herself and it was just so close— "Aah!"
While soft to the touch, Shiki found that she couldn't hold onto Kushina's fiery-red hair for more than a few seconds because of an intense burst of energy that suddenly swelled up inside of her. Her skin was prickling with a strange warmth and her heartbeat was racing—it was though Shiki had caffeinated herself with an energy drink. Except…there was nothing unpleasant about the sensation.
In fact, it actually felt…nice. So nice, that Shiki wanted to laugh. But she didn't laugh and instead, she smiled so widely, that her cheeks were hurting. She was just so…happy.
…
…
"I am so sorry—I never meant for this to happen-ttebane!" Kushina apologized profusely to the tall young man standing in front of her. "I should have been paying more attention! I just never thought this would happen—I'm extremely sorry, dattebane!"
Kushina had only wanted the others to stop staring at her and Shiki. She wanted them to stop whispering. She hadn't expected Shiki to touch her hair while it was flowing so wildly in the air because of the chakra that was flowing through it. Had Kushina anticipated the action, then maybe Shiki wouldn't have ended up this way…
While seemingly fine at first glance, Shiki hadn't exactly moved since she had touched Kushina's hair. She just stayed still, smiling widely as she stared out into space. She was completely out of it and it worried Kushina, because this shouldn't have happened! Except it did and it was all her fault, so now the responsibility of explaining to the girl's father of what happened fell to Kushina and she was an absolute mess because she hadn't expected Shiki's father to look so intimidating.
Kushina was on the verge of tears when she finally finished talking. Not once had the man, Aburame Shinjiro, said a word since she had handed him his daughter, who he now held closely to his chest. He just continued to stare at her, his expression completely devoid of any emotion. Kushina was absolutely terrified and why was he patting her on the head?
Kushina blinked a few times as a hand gave her a few reassuring pats on the head. "Wha?"
"Everything is fine," Shinjiro reassured her. "You should not have to apologize for an accident."
"But I know that kids like her from your clan are sensitive to certain types of chakra-ttebane!" Kushina was quite aware of that, which is why she felt she should have known better to keep a closer eye on her interactions with Shiki.
Shinjiro stared at Kushina for a moment before nodding his head. "Well, you should also know that the reason for this sensitivity is due to the host's age. Shiki, for example, is only four and her kikaichū are still accustomed to her chakra…with some possible exceptions here and there."
"Huh?" Kushina didn't know this. "What about me-ttebane?"
"Well, I would assume you are not part of those exceptions," Shinjiro replied. "If anything, your chakra must be really special for Shiki's kikaichū to react the way they did."
Kushina shifted uncomfortably upon hearing this.
"But do not worry—no harm was done," Shinjiro reassured. "Shiki will be fine in a few hours once the effects of your chakra wear off."
"S-So…everything is fine?" Kushina bit her lip as she looked expectantly at Shinjiro.
Shinjiro nodded his head. "Everything is fine—thank you for your concern. I am quite sure Shiki will appreciate it when she comes to. For now, I think your sister is waiting for you."
"Kushina!" a voice called out to Kushina.
Kushina turned to see her twin sister calling out to her, just waiting for her near the entrance of the Academy building. That was where Kushinada always waited for her, whenever Kushina was out on a mission with her team. Of course, there were always some exceptions, but today was not one of those days. Kushinada was there and Kushina was absolutely relieved that she was.
Because without Kushinada there, Kushina wasn't even sure she would have been able to go home on her own… She wasn't even sure she was going to volunteer the next day, but Kushinada proved to be persuasive enough. And so when Kushina found herself approached by Aburame Shiki later during the day, she was surprised. She was even more surprised when the tiny girl latched onto her waist, telling her how sorry she was for yesterday.
There was something rather touching about the situation, where it was anything but Kushina's fault, even though she felt otherwise. To have someone who was happy to see her there, other than her own sister—to just have a friend, despite the age difference. It was just so…nice.
That evening, Kushina surprised Kushinada when she started crying once it struck her how happy she was that nothing went wrong. For the first time in Kushina's life, she felt that nothing was wrong.
…
…
As the week went by, Kakashi was starting to notice a distinct change in his life. It began when he came home to find the entire Hatake residence completely clean of any dust. Then it continued when he had a dinner consisting of food that was of a much higher quality than his father was capable of making. It was also healthier, much to his initial disdain before actually trying the food… But Kakashi didn't question it—he just acknowledged it.
It only came back to his attention at the end of the week, when Shiki went home with him and Sakumo that day. After all, it wasn't that difficult for Kakashi to put two and two together when he saw Shinjiro making dinner that evening. Though, it was strange that Sakumo was surprisingly helpless against Shinjiro. Just how did that happen?
Kakashi didn't know, but it did make him rather wary of Shiki's father. There had to be more to the man than what met the eye…
At the very least, Kakashi could at least confirm that Shinjiro was anything but bad. Thanks to him, Sakumo was smiling more often. And to Kakashi, that was completely fine…his father deserved to smile more often.
…
…
Obito woke up earlier than usual to get ready for a day out at the park. He didn't exactly want a repeat of last week, where he had spent his entire day helping out an old woman. It wasn't that he regretted what he did—Obito just wanted to go to the playground today.
Exams were coming up and Obito was still falling behind, much to his dismay. He knew that Shiki was willing to help him out—but it still frustrated him that he couldn't at least do somewhat better than last time. And deep down, he was rather hesitant to accept any help, if only because the idea that he was unable to do anything on his own was just…depressing.
Which was why Obito wanted to go to the playground to take his mind off of things. Even if it was just for an hour—to Obito, it was enough. He just…wanted to pretend nothing was wrong. So he continued making his way towards the playground.
Except what ended up happening was that an old man had asked for Obito's assistance. And while what Obito did for the old man was anything but what he had done for the old woman, it was one of two encounters he had that day with the elderly. The instant he was done helping the old man get to his son's house, a different old woman walked up to Obito and asked him if he could help her with her shopping. That task itself took longer than Obito had expected it to. It was already noon when the old woman was halfway through her shopping list.
Obito huffed as he stood by the side, waiting for the old woman to finish bartering with a fruit stand vendor. He watched as people walked past them, taking a moment to adjust his hold on the bags in his hands. He was bored, but not exactly in any mood to complain. While he would rather be at the playground, he wasn't too annoyed with his current situation.
If anything, he actually felt at ease. Obito was of some help and was most definitely not the screw up he sometimes felt he was. He was…happy.
"I'm…happy…" Obito found himself smiling, even though his arms were starting to get tired. He could do this… "Yeah…wait—is that Shiki?"
One of the last things Obito expected to see was Aburame Shiki out in broad daylight, outside of the Academy. She wasn't alone—she was with her relatives (as far as Obito could tell). He didn't recognize the older female Aburame by Shiki's side, though he might have recognized the olive-skinned triplets—the three were always out and about on D-rank missions. They were their own team and Obito just happen to have the luck of walking past them sometimes.
Obito still wasn't going anywhere near them or the older female. Shiki and Shinjiro were more than enough for him…Shinjiro especially. Though, as he continued to stare at the group, he couldn't help but notice how happy they all seemed.
It was so subtle, but spending enough time around Shiki made it easier for Obito to recognize when the girl was happy. And by that extension, it was easy to tell when other Aburame were just as happy. But Shiki definitely stood out the most.
Gone was her usually reserved nature as Shiki interacted so easily with her relatives, showing no hesitation nor nervousness whatsoever. Obito wasn't even sure if Shiki was ever like that with Rin, and that was certainly saying something, considering how close the two were. Shiki was just so happy—so…loved.
Obito frowned, feeling a small pain in his chest. He couldn't help but feel envious, because—because Shiki had a family that accepted her with open arms, when his own family (if he could even call them that) barely even acknowledged his existence. She had family that she could spend time with, while he was stuck helping out an old woman with her shopping—not that he was complaining or anything. Obito just wanted what Shiki had.
That's all…that's all it really was, if he were to be honest. He still had the elderly couple back at the Uchiha District, but they wouldn't always be there…and that's what worried him the most. Of course, they weren't going anywhere, anytime soon…but it was still a concern Obito had.
As Obito watched Shiki and her relatives disappear into the crowd of people, it came to his attention that this was probably one of the rarer times that Shiki was ever out of her compound. Shiki never spoke much about what she did outside of what happened within her clan's compound. It was strange, but Obito had heard that most Aburame children stayed within the confines of their compound until a certain age for various reasons. Not to say that they didn't go out from time to time, it was just so rare to see young Aburame in public outside of the Academy.
"I wonder…" An idea had popped up in Obito's mind, just as the old woman had finished her business with the fruit stand vendor. "I gotta tell Rin…"
For now, he had an old woman to help…and he was completely fine with that.
…
…
Come the next day, Rin was surprised to find Obito talking to her about Shiki. It had nothing to do with apologizing to Shiki, but rather, the situation involving Shiki's lack of exploration in the village she lived in—Konohagakure. For someone who would rather not associate with the Aburame out of his dislike for insects, Obito had a lot of information on their clan. It was rather ironic, but Rin never said anything about it.
Instead, she just listened, with a smile on her face, as Obito talked about including Kakashi in their discussion. Really, Obito had come a long ways…and Rin was absolutely happy.
And when Kakashi showed up, Rin wasn't that surprised that Obito had tasked her with telling the silver-haired boy about his idea. Really, the two needed to stop acting as if they hated each other.
It's been nearly two months and Rin was pretty sure the two had moved from bickering strangers to vitriolic acquaintances, at the very least. They still needed a little more time to become friends…but for now, she had something to tell Kakashi.
…
…
Kakashi stared blankly at Rin as she informed him of an idea Obito had. While Kakashi was skeptical of anything regarding Obito that wasn't an apology towards Shiki, he was rather intrigued with what Obito had in mind. It's not as if Kakashi had anything better to do with Shiki that didn't involve him helping her improve her aim with kunai (still no signs of Shibi moving Shiki onto shuriken) or her dragging him into a game he wouldn't otherwise play on his own.
It would be nice change in routine, and Kakashi was rather fine when it was just the four of them in general, if lunchtime has proved anything. So maybe he could go a day with the four of them hanging out together in Konoha.
Now the question was whether or not Shinjiro would approve, because the Jounin was rather protective of his own daughter.
…
Well, that was for Obito to find out, because Kakashi wasn't going to ask—hell no. Shinjiro managed to intimidate Sakumo—what made anyone think Kakashi was going to mess with that? Kakashi was honestly glad that Rin pointed out that, being Obito's idea, it was up to him to ask Shinjiro. It would also be better if he did, because Obito had the best possible opportunity to do so without Shiki finding out.
It was supposed to be a surprise, after all…and it seems that Shiki had finally arrived, which meant the conversation had come to a close.
…
…
Kushina was talkative, as usual, making faces whenever she shared a bitter memory of some sort with Shiki, which had become a habit of the Uzumaki to do. The fact that Kushina was actually sharing personal information with Shiki showed how much closer the two have grown. Kushina certainly had enough trust in Shiki to lower her guard.
Otherwise, Shiki wouldn't have learned that Kushina had participated in the Chuunin Exams more than twice already and failed, because of her impulsivity. She also wouldn't have learned about this year's upcoming Chuunin Exams, which Kushina was determined to pass.
"If that wimp could do it, then so can I-ttebane," Kushina huffed, her lips formed into a cute pout.
"Wimp?" This was the first time Shiki had heard Kushina mention anyone else other than her sister.
"You probably wouldn't know who he is, so I guess I'll tell you about him." Kushina tried to appear reluctant, but Shiki noticed that she seemed rather eager—almost as if Kushina had been waiting for an opportunity to vent. "So you know how I'm still a Genin—right?"
Shiki nodded her head. "Right."
"Well, back before I was a Genin, I was a student at the Academy, just like you." Kushina grinned as she lightly poked Shiki on the cheek. "Of course I wasn't as cute as you are, but that doesn't matter."
Despite what Kushina had said, it certainly seemed to have mattered to her. Shiki wondered if it had to do with how Kushina's face used to be a lot rounder when she was younger. It had been what earned her the nickname of, "Tomato."
"I wonder if Kushinada's face was just as pudgy…" It was quite the cute mental image.
"Anyways, there was this one kid in my class who was just so frustrating-ttebane!" Kushina had her hands tightened into fists. "He was short, scrawny, and girly—and he still is."
"Is there anything wrong with being girly?" Shiki found herself asking.
"Not really, but when more than a quarter of the class is made up of boys from civilian families, it feels like it and I hate that I've picked up on it because I meant to say unreliable, dattebane." Kushina let out an aggravated sigh. "Word of advice, civilians and their children are going to say a lot of shit, so get used to ignoring them when they start underestimating your abilities-ttebane."
"I will keep that in mind." Shiki wasn't one to pass up advice from Kushina, as crude as it could possibly get at times.
"So as I was saying before, there was this kid in my class who was basically a wimp," Kushina continued. "And it's not that he wasn't strong or anything, but it was more that he refused to graduate early because he wanted to wait."
"Is that so?" Shiki could feel a smile tugging at her lips.
"I just don't get why he did it-ttebane." Kushina crossed her arms. "Like, if I had the chance to graduate early, I would have. So to see this little brat just staying where he was at, in a class that he probably shouldn't have been in—it pissed me off, dattebane!"
"What do you mean by that?" Even though Kushina hadn't dropped a name, Shiki had a vague idea of who this "wimp" was. Despite that, her foreknowledge had its limits and what Kushina had just said managed to confuse Shiki.
"W-Well…" A light blush dusted Kushina's cheeks as she averted her gaze. "I'm…not as smart as my sister. Aaaaaand I may have fallen behind on certain subjects, s-s-so I was placed in a class suitable for someone of my level when I entered the Academy—b-b-b-but there's nothing wrong with that, dattebane!"
"You are quite right!" Shiki offered Kushina a reassuring smile, having noticed how nervous the Genin had gotten. "Everyone goes at their own pace, after all."
"R-Riiight-ttebane!" Kushina forced a smile as she held up a fist. "Anyone who says otherwise can just screw off!"
Shiki just nodded her head. "Indeed…"
"Anyways!" Kushina cleared her throat. "That wimp shouldn't have been in that class, but he was and he refused to go anywhere else because he wanted to graduate with the class-ttebane. Of course, I call bullshit—he was probably too scared to leave. How he managed to become a Chuunin is something I might never know, but it just proves my point that if he can do it, then so can I, dattebane!"
"I see…" Shiki was definitely smiling now. She couldn't help it. She was just so amused because a certain blue-eyed blond was on her mind. If the person Kushina had been venting about was in fact whom Shiki thought it was, then there was something rather endearing about the situation in hindsight. Because the idea that Namikaze Minato refused to change classes and graduate early due to Kushina's presence was adorable.
Of course, that was assuming that Kushina was the reason for that and the "wimp" Kushina talked about was in fact Namikaze Minato. Regardless, it was still an entertaining thought for Shiki.
"You guys are seriously pissing me off, dattebane!" And there went Kushina again—all because everyone was staring at them for what felt like the umpteenth time.
Really, Shiki felt that her classmates needed a better hobby then to just stare and whisper. And while she felt uneasy with so many stares that were focused on her, it had happened much too often for her to actually grow accustomed to it. She had no idea if that was a good thing or not, but at the very least, she could now pretend that she wasn't bothered (even though she actually was).
If there was one thing Shiki was looking forward to, it was the fact that after this week's exam, she would be going back to Momo-sensei's kunoichi classes. Rin would be there…but Kushina wouldn't…
"That's right…" Shiki had almost forgotten that Kushina's month was almost up. Come next week, Kushina would go back to her team to prepare for the Chuunin Exams. The two would no longer be able to hang out, as they had this month…
…
"Kushina-san?" Shiki spoke to Kushina the instant the redhead had cooled down.
"Hmm?" Kushina tilted her head to the side. "What is it-ttebane?"
"We are friends…right?" Shiki knew the answer already, but she still wanted to hear it from Kushina.
"Of course we are!" Kushina grinned widely. "Sure, you might be a little younger than me—but that doesn't matter-ttebane! So what brought that up?"
"If you ever need someone to talk to—you can come to the Aburame compound and ask for me." Shiki was certain that her clan wouldn't mind any surprise visitors. "Okay?"
Kushina blinked a few times and nodded her head. "Gotcha! Soooo…you know singing lessons start next week for beginners like you, right-ttebane?"
"What?!" Shiki didn't know that—was that why Kunie was so adamant on getting her to sing when they went out for karaoke?!
"It's fine!" Kushina reassured. "I'm sure you'll do great! You did just fine with today's exam-ttebane."
That wasn't the point, but Shiki decided not to say anything. It was one thing singing on her own—it was another thing singing in front of others. Shiki had almost cried when Chitose managed to get her to sing a few lines the other day.
Well, at least Rin will be there…
…
…
Obito found himself growing more and more nervous with each passing day. By now, he was quite sure that Rin knew something was wrong with him. He asked her for help far too often for her to not notice. Yet…she never said anything. She just gave him the help he needed and went on her way, as she followed along with Nene-sensei's review for the upcoming exam.
Obito started going home on his own, telling Sakumo and Kakashi that he wasn't that exhausted anymore. He was still sore, but Obito could walk now…and he had no idea how he was going to talk to Shinjiro, because Shinjiro no longer needed to carry him home.
I feel empty…
Obito took to distracting himself by looking over the notes he had borrowed from Rin. He was trying his best to study, but…the words—he just couldn't understand them. He could make out a few words sometimes, but not as often as he wished he did.
He began to lie. He told Rin that everything was fine, even though he spent many hours in the evening reading words he couldn't even understand. Was he even reading?
Can you even call it reading?
The night before the exam, Obito ended up throwing Rin's notebook across the room after he caught himself staring more at the writing than reading the words. It…annoyed him. It really annoyed him that his writing wasn't as neat as Rin's…or that he could even understand what is was he wrote, as she did so confidently.
He could write…but he was mostly copying what he saw. Sometimes, he messed up—just when he thought he had gotten it right. At the very least, he was able to write his name. But even that accomplishment was starting to lose its meaning as Obito continued to fall behind in class.
…
Obito had excused himself from class, shortly after Nene-sensei collected everyone's exams, to go to the restroom. He returned half an hour later, his eyes somewhat red and swollen from crying. When Nene-sensei made a comment about his absence, Obito smiled widely and tried to play it off as if nothing wrong had happened.
Kakashi ignored him, as he usually did. Rin hesitated to speak to him—as if she had no idea how to approach him. Obito almost stopped smiling when he saw Shiki. She just looked so sad…
Why is she sad?
"I'm fine!" Obito lied when Shiki asked him, during lunchtime, if something was wrong. "I just needed some time to myself—that's all."
"The exam probably fried his brain." Kakashi was as tactless as ever.
Obito laughed when Shiki tapped Kakashi on the back of his head. It was worth the light scolding from Rin.
…
Obito wasn't expecting Shinjiro to follow him home. He was expecting the Aburame to go with Shiki, Kakashi, and Sakumo—especially since he told Shiki's father that he no longer needed help getting home.
And yet, Shinjiro continued to follow Obito. He walked a few steps behind the young Uchiha. He said nothing and in turn, Obito did the same.
Eventually, the two reached the Uchiha District and from there, the apartment where Obito lived. It was only until Obito was in front of the door to his apartment that he finally turned around to confront Shinjiro, who was still following him.
"Why are you still here?" Obito wanted answers—because there was no way Shinjiro just followed him without a reason.
"To give you this," Shinjiro said before handing Obito a sealing scroll.
"Oh…right—don't want the food you made to go to waste." Obito had almost forgotten about Shinjiro's sealing scrolls…
"I also wanted to ensure you got home safely," Shinjiro added. "Is there anything else you would like to know?"
"Well…" Obito realized that now was a good time as any to talk to Shinjiro, seeing as it was just the two of them. "Would it be okay if we could show Shiki around Konoha next week?"
"We?" Shinjiro questioned.
"Rin, Kakashi, and me!" Obito was quick to explain. "If that's all right with you, of course…"
Shinjiro paused for a moment and then nodded his head. "I would not be against it, but may I just ask…is there any reason for the occasion?"
"I just feel that maybe it would be nice to show Shiki around Konoha, since she doesn't go out much…" Obito replied. "I mean—she doesn't really talk much about what she does outside of the Academy, unless it's about the Aburame compound or when she's with Kakashi."
Thinking of it now, Shiki was rather sheltered. Having only known those in her own clan, with little contact outside of the compound—it was probably the reason why she was so shy.
Maybe…that's why…
Despite how far the two have come since the day they had first met, Obito and Shiki were still awkward around each other. Obito, because he had yet to apologize, and Shiki, because…because…
"Because of me…" It was because of Obito that Shiki was so conscientious around him. So that he didn't have to come in contact with the kikaichū that covered her body. So that he wasn't upset. "So that we can get along…"
Obito wanted to laugh—he really wanted to laugh. Because it was just so funny that a girl like Shiki wanted to be friends with someone like him, after the way he treated her—especially since he was supposed to be the one who wanted to be friends with her. That's the way it should be.
"She…really is too nice…" Obito laughed. He laughed…and kept laughing, even when tears began running down his face. It was just so funny to him, because…because…
I don't deserve this.
…
…
Shinjiro stayed by Obito's side until he stopped crying. As a result, he arrived at the Hatake residence later than usual. Only Sakumo noticed, because Kakashi and Shiki were still at the dojo, training as usual. Kakashi was just so determined to help Shiki improve…
"What happened?" Sakumo asked.
"Obito-kun just needed someone by his side." That was all Shinjiro was going to say, because he felt that Obito wouldn't want just anyone learning about what had happened. "It must be stress."
"I'm not surprised—he is an Uchiha." Sakumo sighed. "Rather sad, don't you think?"
Shinjiro nodded his head. "Indeed."
"He says his parents are dead…what would you say?" Sakumo looked questioningly at Shinjiro.
"I do not think he ever had any in the first place." Shinjiro felt that there was more to what Obito had said about himself. "Parents should want the very best for their children, even after they are no longer able to do so. Otherwise, they are not parents to begin with—just adults caring for a child that is just there."
"Ha, that's reassuring to hear…" Sakumo smiled. "Because that means we're both parents."
Shinjiro chuckled. "Right you are…"
…
…
The next day, Obito was not at all surprised that he spent his free time helping out others. At this point, he was used to it. If anything, he was rather pleased that he was building up a reputation as the kind boy with the goggles. Obito had always felt insecure about his goggles, hence his particular distaste for them, but now…he was happy he had them.
He saw Shiki again, while she was with her relatives. As envious as he was of her for what she had, Obito liked seeing her when she was like this. He hoped she was like this when he, Kakashi, and Rin showed her around Konoha.
That would be nice…
Obito couldn't wait for the week to end. He had so many places he wanted to show Shiki… And, if all went well, then maybe…
"I can apologize." And if Obito could apologize, then maybe…the two could finally become friends.
Thump!
Obito jolted when he felt his heart skip a beat. His cheeks felt warmer than usual and for some reason, he was oddly…happy. A smile crossed his face as he adjusted his goggles.
I can do this.
…
…
…
A/N Hey guys—have a long chapter from me because gosh dang, is the university life killing me! Freaking hell, technical writing is just doing a number on me… Meanwhile with life drawing, I'm doing surprisingly well (my art is improving huzzah!) and anthropology…yeah, let's just say I know how Obito feels, because that midterm…ugh. I was doing so well, and then THAT FUCKING MIDTERM.
But whatever, that just means I have to make sure I keep doing well from here on out and I can do that. So long as I get a C, I'm good…oh, and I have been dragged back into the depths of hell that is the Kingdom Hearts fandom AND I AM SUFFERING BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE A PS4 AND I NEED ONE FOR 2.8 AND III.
Expect a Kingdom Hearts OC-insert fic from me, because I have one planned and I am well too versed in the lore that is Kingdom Hearts (I am not joking, I literally have too much fucking information on this series to the point that it's almost ridiculous) to pass it up. And long before I started writing fem!character fics and SI OC fics, I wrote KH fics and just...yeah...I've come a long way and I'm excited to go back to my roots (especially since I have a LOT planned and just...yeah). So expect that fic to come out when Kingdom Hearts III comes out and I have a PS4 to play it on...so that'll be a while.
ANYWAYS, I don't know about you guys, but I feel that the reason Kushina's hair gets all wild is because her chakra is flowing through it and you cannot convince me otherwise. Like, her hair is an outlet when she gets so worked up. It's like a teapot letting out steam when the water starts boiling…
Moving on, I'm liking how Rin is developing as a character, especially considering how I made her part of a clan of medic-nin for absolutely no reason because I just could. Like, if I hadn't done that in Butterfly Child when Team Blast From The Past (AKA, Team Spiky Hair) became a thing…I have no idea what would have happened to Rin. Just like Sakura in Butterfly Child, medical ninjutsu is a crucial part of Rin's life. And FYI, it's the reason why she's in Shimura Nene's class.
Shiki's going back to attending kunoichi classes with her year. Kakashi has become afraid of Shinjiro, as has Sakumo. Shinjiro is…well, Shinjiro. And Obito…well, holy shit, he's also come a long way. Like, really…he still doesn't like insects, but he's not letting that get in the way anymore.
Oh, and I'm not sure if you guys caught on, but the Suzume you saw in this chapter is in fact the same Suzume who taught Ino and Sakura's kunoichi class in canon. Basically, Sakumo found her during a mission and took her home with him before giving her to the Mochizuki clan.
And speaking of children being found on missions, let's talk about Shiki's Great-Uncle Naomi. He is adopted and because of that, he's not a kikaichū host (you have to be born into the clan to become a host)…but he still wears sunglasses as means of feeling connected to his clan. It's something he shares with the other members of the Aburame clan who are like him (not Aburame by blood).
More on the Aburame, children tend to be rather sensitive to certain types of chakra. Like, it has to be rather special. And with what happened with Kushina…the effect it had on Shiki was like that of a sedative. Which isn't that bad, but considering that Kushina has Kurama inside of her and if his chakra managed to leak out…the reaction Shiki had could have been completely different. It could have potentially been harmful, which is why Kushina was so anxious.
Anyways, let's get onto the shout outs for reviews and god damn, I have a lot to do because of this site's screw up. So get ready for a lot of bolded usernames and a new way of doing these shout outs!
Reviewer #250: michaela . page.77
Reviewer #260: Ryohei S (A little late, but Happy Birthday!)
Reviewer #270: Counting Sinful Stars
Reviewer #280: Monochromatic Sakura
Reviewer #290: Plouton
Reviewer #300: Red raspberries
Reviewer #310: Joldino-Sidestreaker
Honorable mentions: KingHoborg, Michi-Onee-Chan, J. N. Juicy, MDA, WinterSparks852, OreoNinja, anonymous reviewer LateNightOwl, anonymous reviewer Moka (love your attitude!), anonymous reviewer InsertLovebugPun (love the name~!), deletrear (I am planning on reading your fics eventually and loving the Hajime icon)
It really means a lot when you guys leave a review and just know, that while I haven't been responding much, I HAVE read every review I got. And while I'm on the subject of that, I have something I'd like to address, so do feel free to skip over this next part if you want to (I'm gonna put it at the end of this A/N just so it doesn't get in the way. But before that, let's get into the shipping games!
So shipping games are just as lively as ever and all over the place (holy shit, these ships have such long names ahahaha), Kishito is in the lead…and that's all I know because names are all over the place—I need to find a way to organize this shit. Anyways, as a reminder, the set pairing for this ship involves polyamory, so poly ships are a thing! Apart from Kishito (Kakashi/Shiki/Obito), poly ships, as listed, are Kagaishi/Kagashi/Gashika (Kakashi/Gai/Shiki), Karishi (Kakashi/Rin/Shiki), and Kashirito (Kakashi/Shiki/Rin/Obito—the awesome foursome). Kakashi/Shiki/Gai/Obito has been introduced and anonymous reviewer InsertLovebugPun has introduced Team Free Love, which they describe as the vaguely defined open polyromantic (and maybe a little platonic too depending on people involved) relationship with Shiki as the nucleus that slowly integrates people at its edges like an amoeba. I'm really liking the description for Team Free Love, it's just so amusing and I REALLY love it, ahaha…
That's about all I have for now, it's like almost 4 AM, and I just want to get this chapter up because I'm tired, need sleep, and have class at 10 AM. So I hope you enjoyed this chapter! So until next time everyone, KD out! XD
...
...
So like, here's a thing I wanted to talk about after I had a complaint from a reviewer, but like…yeah, Shiki is acting like a child because she is one. Sure, she is a reincarnated twenty-year-old woman…but she is physically a child and being a child means her brain is still developing. And a developing brain means there is a limit to how Shiki can control her own behavior, because her brain isn't at the capacity that it had when she was twenty.
So don't go complaining to me about how an adult woman is acting like a child when she is PHYSICALLY one. And also, if you think that Shiki's reaction to the way that girl talked to her in chapter 12 is unreasonable…you're missing the point of Kunie's words.
No one has a right to say what does and does not hurt you. They don't get to decide that. People react differently based on their life experiences and such (I've been bullied and that shit leaves scars, of which have been passed down to Shiki, being an SI OC). If you feel different, then maybe it's because you can't relate.
Sorry, I just had to get that off my chest because that specific reviewer only ever seems to say anything whenever they come across something that doesn't sit well with them. Like, here's the thing, if you don't like an aspect of my story, rather than continue reading it and complaining in a review…just drop the story. I'm only going to disappoint. I write what I want to write and not everyone is going to like it. But that doesn't mean you have to be rude about it.
Hope you guys understand.