#noxcsw

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     Hey Naruto fandom! Mod Sylvie here back with our ship week: one to celebrate ships between canon characters and the community’s wide array of original characters! Whether you write an OC, a canon, or maybe even both, this ship week is all about the great ships we’ve crafted between Kishi’s cast and the hard work of fans building their own muses from the ground up into the world of Naruto!

     This year, we’re trying something a little different for the prompts! Rather than have set ones for each day, we have our overarching theme, Ship Tropes! For the first week of June, we’ll be creating art, fics, aesthetics, and any other creative content based on ANY fictional tropes revolving around relationships. From that one-bed hotel room to love triangles to fake relationships, you can choose any trope for any day of the week! We figured this would give more freedom of choice while maintaining an overall theme. And of course if you need inspiration or assistance, just let one of the mods know, and we’ll do our best to help you!

My art for the Naruto OC x canon ship week! Why does it look so damn saturated on my computer? >:(

This is @kusunokihime ‘s OC Suigin Ryu x Uchiha Obito As for the trope... Reading a book together? :3 

Standing along the edge of her chamber balcony, a lone woman rests marless hands along its railing. From the lofty perch, she gazes down into the valley that twists and winds between snow-capped peaks. Moonlight paints the scene in soft greys and shadows.

She should be sleeping...but she can’t begin to find rest.

A soft sigh plumes in the chilled night air. Like the fog that often blankets her homeland, it drifts slowly, unhurriedly out from the cliffside castle. Carved from the very mountain face, it watches over the vale unblinkingly, waterfalls cascading out past its windows to join the river below.

The rumbling of the water is usually enough to lull her to sleep. But tonight, too much weighs on her mind.

Far, far too much.

Her eyes don’t see what lies before them, flickering in thought in their sockets. The eddying news and arising conflicts won’t stop flowing, keeping her conscious.

What should she do…?

It’s now more than ever she wishes for her mother’s guidance. Someone older, wiser, to help steer her in the right direction.

But she’s alone...and with war on the horizon, her kingdom surrounded on all sides.

Since the first recordings of history, they’ve remained detached from the other nations and their squabbles. With their world’s holy sites all contained within her borders, that influence of faith has allowed them to stand alone, untouched, for centuries. A careful balance maintained between the other lands to avoid overstepping and claiming too much influence over a place that - in truth - belongs to them all.

But now…? War once again threatens to rise. And the balance is crumbling. Rather than seeking to protect her lands, the others now seek to conquer it.

And without an army, a neutral place of peace...Ryū fears they will fall like wheat to a scythe. Unless the gods themselves intervene...they have no defense beyond the walls of the mountains. The chosen people of the valley do not fight. They’ve never had to.

To spill blood on the sacred land was to invite the wrath of the gods.

But that fear seems to be waning in the other nations. And their lack of restraint may be the end of the valley people chosen by the pantheon.

And she fears there is nothing she can do but pray.

Fingers curl against the railing, nails trying to dig into the stone and threatening to snap. Her people look to her for guidance: both a priestess and a queen. But now…? She feels utterly unprepared to lead them. Protect them. Without the perilous balance outside their borders...how can she keep war at bay?

Her head bows, heavy with every life depending on her. There has to be something she can do...something to stave off their slaughter.

...wait…

Like a beetle boring into wood, a thought worms its way into her mind. One that goes against centuries of tradition. At first, she flinches from it by reflex. And yet it lingers, tempting and luring.

...what if she were to tame one of the warhounds? Offer it what it wants...and in return, turn its teeth against the others? Marry a warlord...and position his army at their gates?

Never has her line tied itself to another. Never have they broken the careful neutrality maintained to ensure equality for the others in the eyes of the gods. If she does this...if she shows a bias to one land over the others...will it be enough to save them?

Or will it bring only ruin?

...what choice does she have?

To give another influence over her lands...is that the price she’s willing to pay to protect it? Are shackles preferable to gravestones?

In silence she weighs her odds...before turning to retreat inside.

She has letters to pen.

"My king!”

Gloved palms braced against the table that bears his maps, Madara turns at the voice of a messenger. “This best be important.”

“A message, my liege.”

“...from?”

“The priestess of the mountain valley.”

Immediately, dark brows furrow. What could she want with him? An expectant hand raises to accept the parchment, unfurling it and proceeding to read.

The further he goes, the more his face slackens.

Around him, everyone stills, awaiting his reaction.

“...prepare my horse.”

“Sire…?”

“I have a meeting to attend. Izuna!”

Stepping up beside his brother, the younger man replies, “Shall I hold the fort?”

“Yes. Await my orders. Until then...consider us at ease. But be ready at a moment’s notice.”

“Of course.” He eyes his brother thoughtfully. “...that must have been some letter.”

As he straps on his armor, a mischievous smirk curls Madara’s lips. “I may have just been handed victory on a silver platter.”

Izuna’s brows lift. “...that simply?”

“Oh, there will be obstacles. But none I cannot handle. Especially if it means avoiding this war altogether.”

“You? Eager to avoid bloodshed?”

“...as much as I enjoy the fire in my veins at a proper battle...I’m not so easily consumed as not to realize it costs the lives of my men. Besides...victory is what tastes sweetest. And one I can take single handedly will be ambrosia itself.”

“...then I wish you luck.”

“Luck will have nothing to do with it, brother. It’s all a matter of will.”

Watching Madara leave the chamber, Izuna folds his arms with a sigh. Curiosity burns at the letter’s contents, but he knows he’ll be made aware in due time. A meeting, and skipping a war…?

...that alone gives him some idea.

“...spread the word that our armies are to remain on alert. Until the king returns or sends word, we remain here at the ready.”

“Aye!”

Astride his Friesian, Madara wastes no time, digging heels to the beast’s sides and heading inland. Nor does he bother himself with escorts. They’ll only slow him down, and he wants to be prompt. The sooner he arrives, the sooner he’ll settle this matter himself.

So, the queen’s decided to take things into her own hands, has she? Allay war by holding a council that will serve in its stead. Let the kings, queens, and generals do the fighting themselves for once rather than hide behind their armies. Let one emerge a victor, claim the spoils...and put to rest this silly balancing act.

And Madara knows, in a contest of will and limits, none will stand in his way. The only thorn he can foresee is that bastard Tobirama now that Hashirama is gone. But he’ll handle that too when he must.

To lay claim to the holy lands of their continent will be to grip every heart that follows the gods. In his goals to make all equal and loyal to one ideal...such a position is paramount. No more wars. No more squabbling. He’ll make sure the lines drawn between men will finally fade into one unity.

No matter how far he must go.

Like any gods-fearing man, he’s made the pilgrimage himself more than once. The way is already familiar. But there’s still a moment taken upon cresting the lip of the valley to appreciate its majesty.

...it really is a beautiful place. No wonder the gods call it their cradle. In all his travels, he’s never seen a place more fitting for them to consider setting foot upon the soil. The thought of bringing war here is indeed distasteful.

No wonder she’s willing to bow her head to protect it.

Easily marked an outsider, he ignores the stares as he makes his way up to the castle. He understands and respects their suspicions. Besides, it won’t be long before he can put to rest their fears and earn their admiration. If he’s to be the first king of this reclusive land, he’ll do it the right way.

Presenting his letter, he allows his mount to be stabled as he’s led inside. The palace carved from the white stone of the cliff face has always impressed him, looking birthed from the mountain itself. With the forested lip crowning it and the waterfalls that curtain its face, it looks much like a fairy queen’s domain.

Speaking of which...he’s never individually spoken to the priestess queen of the valley. She who both rules and shepherds. Her sermons have always been impassioned, and he won’t deny her ethereal beauty: the ghostly-white countenance that’s said to be a mark of the gods’ blessings to her lineage. But until now, he’s had no reason to approach her directly. Almost like an idol herself, kept behind a wall no outsider could pass.

...but that’s all set to change.

To his annoyance, several of the other monarchs have already arrived. Though it can’t be helped, given proximities. The land of his people lies mostly along a coast compared to the valley at the heart of their landmass, pushed to the edges over time. They all give him the same sour, upturned-nose glances, clearly displeased at the presence of the warlord.

His reputation is no secret: willing to carve through anything to get what he wants. Spilling blood like others pour wine. Claimed to be a monster masquerading as human, more likely to kill a man than embrace him.

While his bloodlust is indeed true, born from a line used to fending for itself...he still remembers the talks of old with another princeling. Another soul that, in truth, wished for peace. While their methods were always different...Madara did - and still does - desire a stop to be brought to wars.

He’s just more willing to be...absolute.

But this might be just the break he’s looking for. A new angle to bring all men into line. Surely between the lady of faith and the lord of power, there will be little standing in their way of finally putting the marches of wars to rest.

...but first, he’ll have to take care of the competition.

“And here I thought this was to be a peace council. Yet here prowls the dog of war.”

Dark eyes sliding to their corners, Madara aloofly considers one of the other land’s queens: a woman of flaming hair and even more flaming temper. “Dog or not, I was beckoned just as you were. Any other judgments, I’m sure, will be made by our hostess. Until then, I’ve little need or want of yours.”

Arms tucked into voluminous sleeves, Mei considers him with equal parts disdain and intrigue. “And are the rest of us supposed to accept your presence without hesitation, pretending you’ve not wounded us in the past?”

“Any I’ve wounded have done so to me in turn. Perhaps not as successfully,” he adds with a smirk, earning a glower, “but don’t paint yourselves as guiltless martyrs. Any who spill blood are equally guilty. Lost life is lost life, no matter what banner or slogan you hide behind. I protect my people as you do yours.”

“And yet none will deny your barbarity. Not even you.”

“I’ll not bother to call a rose by any other name in an attempt to hide its thorns. But my brutality is necessary. Nothing more or less. It is only with teeth I can bite back choking fingers.”

“They’d not choke if you didn’t bite first.”

Immediately, a flare of temper seems to climb Madara’s spine like a flame along a trail of tinder. But he doesn’t reveal his hatred, only turning to Tobirama with a mock air of surprise. “I think by now there’s little point in which came first...only that it continues. And must end.”

“A continuation in which you are just as guilty,” the Senju retorts without pause.

“Well, perhaps a second opinion is just what we need, then. Let the true neutral decide what will become of us warmongering heathens. Don’t act as if you’ve never wielded a blade out of spite, Tobirama. In the eyes of the gods, we are all guilty.”

“And yet, some more than others. I look forward to them striking you down at last.”

“...we’ll see about that.”

“Your majesties…?”

At the timid cut-in, the regals turn to an attendant who wastes no time in bowing under their gazes. “The last of the expected parties have arrived, and...her holiness will see you now. Please, follow me.”

After no small number of distrustful glances, the gathered royals follow in the young woman’s wake. While the display of weakness irks Madara slightly, he also can’t blame her. Surely there’s been no assembly like this in their land before, nor for such a purpose. Being exposed to so much power at once must be quite the shock for any below their rank. Anyone in her shoes would be hard-pressed not to panic.

But in this land, all who serve their lady are absolute. Fear is nothing in the face of their devotion. While the priestess queen may serve the gods, it’s the people who in turn serve her. Long have rumors circulated of the valley people being so blindly loyal as to throw themselves on pikes for their monarch. She is the vessel through which the gods speak. To allow her to come to harm is to commit the ultimate blasphemy.

Already, he thinks of how this will be useful.

A short walk later, the lot of them are led into an expansive sitting room. “Her ladyship wishes for you all to remain here, and to attend an audience with her individually. Her impressions are to be unbiased by the others and their opinions, so...while any of you are within her chamber, the rest are kindly asked to wait patiently here.”

“Is this simply to be a contest of our most tactical liars, then?” Tobirama dares to ask, teeth gritting. “Are we not allowed to vet one another?”

“Within each of you is inherent bias depending on friends or foes,” the little servant in turn refutes, and Madara can’t help a lift of his brow as she stares the king down. “Her ladyship, in line with our lands, wishes to remain neutral. The gods will guide her. Mortal opinions can never be pure.”

The Senju’s lip lifts in a snarl, but before he can refute, Mei steps in. “Please tell your ladyship we will be patient and obliging. We all wish to avoid war. If this is what it takes, so be it. The rest of us won’t let temper lead us astray.”

For that, she’s given a venomous look...but other leaders murmur in agreement, and Tobirama begrudgingly concedes.

Wordlessly, the woman nods, and turns into another room.

“...best make yourselves comfortable,” Mei then sniffs, finding herself a perch as others do the same.

Always pleased to see the Senju put in his place, Madara offers a hint of an appreciative smirk in her direction, lounging in a plush chair tucked in a corner. An elbow rests on its arm, chin braced along his knuckles.

A few minutes later, one of the monarchs is asked inside.

And so it begins.

“Have you need of anything, my lady?”

Pouring herself a goblet of water, Ryū gives the attendant a glance, and then a smile. “For now, no - thank you, dear. Twice over for bringing the others here. I trust they were obliging…?”

The tick of hesitation is telling. “M...mostly, my lady.”

“Tell me no more. We’ll see how their conduct fares. You may go.”

“Yes, my lady.”

Left to her own devices for a moment, the priestess draws a long, calming breath. Time to see if her plan will bear fruit...and not the sort to poison the starving masses. Another handmaid tends to the door, calling in each of the other monarchs to stand their trials.

Her interviews are simple, yet extensive. All manner of aspects of their rule - their platoons, their policies, their positions and their people - are peered into with the highest scrutiny. And all throughout, Ryū places her trust in a sense that has never failed her. One she remains convinced comes from the insight of the gods.

Never has she been lied to and the falsehood gone unnoticed.

It’s a feeling that follows her always. And with varying intensity, it reveals to her just who is willing to be truthful...and who thinks it wise to lie to the mouthpiece of the gods. None of the remarks are challenged until each conversation is over, the priestess calmly laying out her accusations. All rebuke and fluster and give flashes of temper, but she cannot be convinced otherwise.

As each monarch reemerges with varying degrees of disgruntlement, the rest clearly become wary.

And she saves the best for last.

“King Madara, of the Uchiha.”

Realizing his position and having done his best to remain patient, the Uchiha takes to his feet and makes his way toward the side chamber. He’d suspected he’d be reserved for the tail end given his reputation, but it was worth seeing Tobirama come out with a clenched jaw and scarlet neck of temper.

Well worth it.

Approaching the door, he gives yet another mousey serf a glance. Does she employ no one but nervous handmaids? Putting the thought aside (it’s hardly of any use), he steps inside and gives the room a curious once-over.

It’s a simple study, lined with shelves of scrolls and tomes. At the rear is a stained glass window, out which he can see one of the falls. Behind a desk of solid wood sits his hostess, and another moment is taken to observe her.

Her dress, unlike that worn for her sermons, is simple: plain white fabric with light hints of gold embroidery. Prim and modest, she looks far more the role of a priestess than a queen. Likely intentional.

“Would you care for some water?”

“...I would,” he replies shortly, accepting a goblet she pours him. Once quenched, he offers, “I must admit, it’s been too long since I’ve visited the valley. I hope that bears no weight on my qualifications?”

“Your lands are far, and your people often troubled. I cannot fault you for remaining where you are needed most by those that follow you. Though they may reside here, the gods can hear us no matter how distant our call.”

“Hm…” He considers her thoughtfully. “...may I also be frank in my surprise at this...decision. But in the same breath, I’ll put forth I think it wise.”

A hint of surprise lifts her brows. “...do you?”

“Relying on the wills of others for your safety puts your fate in their hands. While the other nations were willing, for a time, to be considerate of you...it seems the time has come where they put their own interests over the gods.”

“...do you do the same?”

“I concern myself foremost with my people. Whatever I can do for them to better their lives, I will do. No questions asked. I am their sword, and their shield. For them I will weather any storm, and I will cut down any threat.” His chin declines. “...I know this land’s distaste for violence. But I won’t attempt to hide what I have done. The gods may choose to smite me for it, but I will not stand idle and allow my people to come to harm rather than take any measure to protect them. Until I come to my judgment day, it is my people I answer to. Not gods.”

To his honest surprise, her lips curl into a coy smile. “...I commend you for your honesty and your dedication,” she murmurs. “Many have attempted to conceal their actions, seeking to tilt my favor. But there’s no hiding truth from the gods.” A knee lifts to crest the other, the long skirt of her gown rustling quietly. “Do you recognize the weight of the lives you take to protect another?”

“Of course. Any other man breathes and dreams as those under my banner do. Any life lost - no matter what side of a line - is one that should be mourned. If I could snap my fingers and draw all under one crest so that such lines could not be crossed, no reason given to kill what could in fact be a brother because of one loyalty over another, then I would do so. But until then...I protect what is entrusted to me. Nothing more, nothing less.”

“And if those within the valley were to be taken under that banner?”

“Then they would receive every ounce of my dedication as those born beneath it. An alliance is a promise. And I keep my promises. So long as I drew breath, it would be drawn for them all.”

A long moment passes of her silent consideration before continuing with her interview. Further and further she needles him, digging into the psychology and methodology of his leadership. And at each inquiry, he answers honestly, bearing all and refusing to feel shame for it.

Not once does she feel him lie.

By now, the day has begun to slip into evening, and a small respite is taken to light the sconces in the study. “We’re nearly finished. A supper is being prepared for you all.”

“How long are we expected to remain? I have a standing army to return to.”

“A few days at best, if my expectations are met. While my impressions are mostly made and there’s likely little else to glean...I am not one to rush important decisions. But so too do I respect the time and obligations of you and the others. I beg your patience.”

“And you’ll have it. I’m simply curious. My brother maintains the ranks in my stead, and I trust his judgment.”

“I didn’t know you had a brother.”

“...I once had four,” Madara eventually replies after a small pause. “But life is brutal, and war the paramount. Now...we are the two left of five. He is my right hand. I rely on him heavily.”

“I see…” Ryū lets her chin rest in a hand. “I’m without siblings. My father is unknown to me, my mother long dead. While I consider every person within my lands to be my family, my flock...I realize it is not the same. I envy you, in a way.”

“I’m sure he would be delighted to have a sister.”

The rather obvious nudge snaps her eyes to him, expression unreadable. “...I have one last question for you.”

“And I will do my best to answer.”

Silvers stare at him, unblinking. “...my intentions, I’m sure, are plain. To resist destruction by a flood of new war, I intend to ally myself with one of the other nations. That alliance will grant me an army, and hopefully give pause to the others before they consider bringing battles here. However...I know that, beyond my lands, the webs of friends and foes are complicated, and ever-changing. Depending on my choice, prior brothers in arms may be forced to become enemies. So my question is this: have you any reason - any at all - to possibly falter should this position become yours? Would you ever hesitate in raising your swords and your shields to defend this valley, and the people in it?”

“No.”

The blunt reply earns a blink, especially as no hint of a lie bleeds through his tone. “...just that easily?”

“Just that easily.” Shifting his posture, Madara leans inward, expression completely unwavering. “My people have been betrayed more times than I could count. We’ve not held an alliance since I was a boy...perhaps even longer. For generations we have been marked as nothing more than war-hungry dogs. And while we will never back down from a fight...it is not what we want. We fight for one reason only: necessity. Survival. The world has turned its back on us, declared us untrustworthy and forever drunk on blood. So perhaps that is something you should consider, priestess.”

Watching him warily, Ryū nonetheless holds her ground as he approaches, shrinking the gap between them to a breath.

“...is this what you want to anchor in your harbor? A man called a monster, a killer? Someone willing to go to any length, no matter what ire it will earn him?”

“...that’s precisely what I want.”

...it’s his turn to be taken aback.

She stares up at him, just as calm. “...I am all out of options, Madara,” she murmurs, dropping all other pretense. “My people face annihilation. We are sheep circled on all sides by wolves. Which is why I don’t want just a wolf. I want someone with nothing to lose. Because that is exactly what I have become. I want someone who, when the inevitable comes, will fight with no holds barred. Someone the other wolves fear. Because that fear will be what keeps us safe until the swords swing.”

Eyes flickering over her face, he lingers a long moment before conceding back to his seat. “...I see. Surely you already knew, then, what you were really looking for. These interviews weren’t to find who you wanted...but to gauge the standings of what will be left.”

She gives a grave nod. “To know who will be possible allies, who can be swayed...and who will see my declaration as one of war.”

“I’ve already a fair idea of those,” he assures her.

“I did not...but now I do. Which leaves only one last formality.” Reclining in her seat, Ryū crosses a knee, hands folding atop her lap. “...will you accept my proposal of an arranged marriage, Madara of the Uchiha? And with it, accept the position of army general, and the duty of protecting my people, my lands, and the cradle of the gods?”

“Is ‘king’ not one of my titles?”

“You are the king of your people. I am the queen of mine. I am unsure how either will view the other. And we have never had a king before.” Her lips flicker into a smile. “...both sides will surely need to do their own...adjusting. You will have every right and privilege that comes with a marriage to my line. Just, I’m sure, as I will inherit those of one to yours.”

...she’s avoiding the answer directly, he muses, considering her carefully. She doesn’t want foreign influence over her people...I can understand. Especially given the vast cultural differences. Surely such details will be determinable later. For now...best we settle the basics. I can whittle at the rest as we go. Leaning back with a sigh, he replies, “...then yes. I accept.”

“...good. We can discuss the rest tomorrow. For now...we have a dinner to attend.”

“Nothing works up an appetite like politics.”

Day 1: Pirates (Itama Senju x Kagura)

@naruto-ocxcanon-ship-week

The smell of sea spray was refreshing and invigorating to a young woman as she hurried towards the docks, much to the dismay of several servants. She stretched, giving the sun a wide smile then returning to her quick pace.

“Lady Kagura, you must slow down,” One maidservant lucky enough to keep up with the teen called out as she weaved through various dock hands and cargo. She didn’t want the servants carrying most of the Kamiya leaving the Land of Iron’s belongings to lose sight of them.

“The faster we get there, the faster we can load!” And the faster I can leave this awful place... “Come on, we’re burning daylight!”

After the cargo was loaded, passengers boarded, the ship left, heading for the Land of Fire- or as Kagura would have insisted- back home. While land travel was an option, most of her relatives were only well-versed in samurai style combat, not shinobi style combat. On water, it was harder to encounter conflict.

Nibbling her lip, Ryū stares at the slight reflection in her mobile screen. Thumbs flicker over the keys, not quite touching in indecision.

This is the closest she’s gotten.

The concept, admittedly, is just...not one she ever saw herself using. Online dating seems so, so...weird! Lining up your face, your name, a handful of facts, and calling it good. Is that really all it takes anymore? Sure, she...doesn’t exactly have mountains of experience beyond that. Maybe she’s just old-fashioned. But putting up something akin to a mugshot to try and find love seems very...strange.

“Whatcha doin’?”

Eeping in surprise, she claws the phone to her chest, face going pink and heart pounding. “N-nothing!”

Behind her, a coworker she knows mostly only in passing perks a brow. “Whoa, sorry! You looked kinda, uh...distressed.”

Ryū heaves a small breath. “...sorry, I didn’t mean to jump so bad. I just, uh...I’m trying one of those silly dating websites, and…”

The other woman quickly perks up. “Oh! Yeah they’re kinda scary at first but I met my boyfriend on one! I bet you’ll do just fine. Just be smart about it, and it usually all works out fine.”

“Smart…?”

“Y’know...meet in public places, tell someone where you’re going. About the same as a normal date for those like us, huh?”

At that, Ryū can’t help but deflate. “...yeah, good point.”

“Don’t worry, you’ll be fine. People gotta have their pictures on there. I take a pic of any license plates and send them to someone I trust just in case.”

Brow wilting, Ryū admits, “You’re...not exactly giving me votes of confidence here.”

“Hey, gotta be prepared for the worst, but the worst hardly ever happens. Besides, a bit of chatting online usually gives a pretty good indication of if something will even work. And you can always ask friends to go on doubles, too.”

At that, Ryū doesn’t answer. She...doesn’t really have many friends to ask, let alone any with dates she’d feel like asking along. “Yeah, good point. I’ll, uh...I’ll see how it goes.”

“Cool! Good luck!” Giving a wave as she passes by, her coworker heads around a corner and out of sight.

“...what am I doing…” Ryū mumbles to herself, looking back to her nearly-completed account. “I know this isn’t gonna work…” And now the less appealing sides are at the forefront of her mind. Maybe she should just keep her nose to the grindstone and pretend she never brought this up.

...but then again…

As much as she hates to admit it, she’s lonely. Being a pharmacist might be similar to her wish to be a doctor, but it’s not quite what she wanted. It just feels like something is...missing. And while Ryū isn’t the sort to assume all her problems can be solved by a guy (or gal), she’s still pretty able to realize that her social life isn’t the best. No real close friends, passing grades with her coworkers...not even any pets. Up until now, she’s lived life in a series of grinds. School, then work, and now...it feels lacking.

Hence the idea to try the app.

“...no harm in looking,” she eventually mumbles to herself, slowly going through the rest of her profile and hitting the confirm button. “You don’t have to go on with it, but...just look. See how it works. Maybe just...chat with someone. One step at a time, okay?”

Of course, by then her break is nearly over, so she mutes her phone and heads back to work. She...only ate half her lunch, but she’s not really all that hungry anyway. Only once her shift is over does she head back to her little apartment and...give this thing a real try.

At first, it throws nothing but male profiles at her. Which is all well and good, but...it’s not all she’s interested in. Looking over a few names and faces, she eventually bucks up the courage to pick one. He’s a few years older, lives a town over, and works as a physical therapist. Not bad, right?

...ugh, wrong.

As soon as they start chatting, she knows this...isn’t going to work. He’s all Mister Nice Guy, subtly bragging about himself and leaving only certain questions open for her in turn: the only things he wants to hear about, and...things she can easily see through as shallow. Eventually she manages to get him to shut up and quickly deletes him.

Okay...not a great first impression, but it’s not gonna be perfect the first time she tries. This isn’t a fairytale, after all. So, she tries another. And another.

After over two weeks of duds that don’t even get past initial chats, she’s about ready to give up.

Laying on her bed spread-eagle with a sigh, she stares up at the ceiling. What started as a vague inking is turning into nothing but a source of frustration. Not exactly what she signed up for. Weighing her options, Ryū eventually stirs when her phone gives an all-too-familiar notification sound.

Another match...wonderful.

Sitting up with a grunt, she opens the message and looks over yet another profile. At first glance, it’s just another guy. Ugh. The amount of lady-seeking ladies has been depressingly low, but...apparently those are usually on their own kind of sites. So, for now, she entertains herself with this one.

Obito Uchiha...huh. Vaguely sounds like her own Japanese roots. There’s a small spark of curiosity, adjusting her stance slightly. Short dark hair, dark eyes, and...well, his pics aren’t the clearest (he clearly knows his good side (or what he’s assuming is his good side since...it’s all she sees)). But she spies a cat. That’s a win. She likes cats. A glance at his actual profile shows a like of sweets, cats (aha!), and a dislike of...aubergines? Googling that, there’s a hum of understanding. It’s eggplant! She...didn’t know that...whoops. The rest of the summary (stuff about ‘being extreme’ and ‘having abs’) gets her to giggle.

Well...might as well give it a try.

Giving the okay, she opens up the chat window, nibbling her lip in thought. What should she say…?

Hello!

A bit surprised, Ryū jolts slightly, not expecting the quick response! ...hi!

I didn’t think you’d accept it so fast!

And I didn’t think you’d say hello so quickly either!

Oh, sorry...was that too fast?

The apology begets a subconscious smile. No, not at all! My phone is usually pretty quiet is all. Sorry if I’m awkward, I’m...still kinda new at this.

Ha, me too. I haven’t had too many matches yet, so I’m still practicing.

Guess we can practice together! Though I have to ask you…

...eh?

What’s your kitty’s name?

Oh! Her name is Tenebris.

Aww, I love that name!

She’s my lady, haha! Helps me reel in the girls ;D

Ryū can’t help a snort. Well it seems to be working. I don’t have any pets, sadly…

What? None at all?

No...I work a lot so I haven’t gotten around to it. And I don’t want them to be lonely!

Bah, cats are good at being alone. Feed them and clean their box and you’re fine.

I’ll have to think about it, haha~

After a few minutes, Ryū realizes...this is the longest she’s talked to someone on here yet. Sure, it was a little stiff to start, but by some grace they just sort of...fell into conversation. No posturing or anything. It’s rather...refreshing! Encouraged, she keeps texting as she starts working on her dinner.

So what kind of work do you do?

I’m a pharmacist! Not quite the doctor I planned on, but it works.

Ohhh, wow!

What about you?

There’s quiet for a few minutes, and Ryū can’t help but wonder if that was a bad question. But then Obito replies, Sorry, my cat got stuck behind the couch...I uh...am currently working on a garbage truck part time…

She blinks. That’s...very random. Nothing wrong with that. It’s an important job, after all!

Eh, yeah...not very charming though, is it?

Oh, pffft. I stand behind a counter all day and give people medicine over and over. It’s not exactly exciting most days. We all make our ends meet somehow.

I guess that’s true.

Smiling at her phone, Ryū keeps cooking and chatting, giving play-by-plays as he asks what she’s making.

Do you like cooking?

Mhm! Food’s one of those things that’s both a necessity, and yet can be fancy when you want it to be, so...I thought it would be good to learn. And it’s a lot of fun!

I’m...okay at it.

Maybe I can give you some lessons down the road, hm?

You would?

Sure! It’d be something fun to do.

Like a first date?

At that, Ryū pauses. Right...dating. That’s what this is all for. She almost forgot… Sure! If that’s something you’d like to do. I guess dinner and a movie is pretty common for that. We’ll just make our own!

I’d really like that!

Cheeks warming, Ryū beams at the screen. I guess...it’s a date! Eventually. Whenever we can make something work, and maybe talk a little more…?

Sure! I take a lot of random side jobs so I can be a little flaky…

That’s okay - we’ll just keep chatting until then. You’re actually the first person that’s been fun to talk to…

He sends a big smile emoji. Success!

You’ll have to think about what we should make! I have to warn you, I like making dessert, too…

Oh no...my biggest weakness…

And no eggplant, right?

Eugh, no.

Haha, noted!

The conversation runs well into the evening until Ryū admits she’d best get to bed. Guess I’ll talk to you some more later, okay?

Mhm!

Say hi to Tenebris for me!

Haha, I will! Goodnight Ryū.

Night, Obito.

Checking her other messages, Ryū plugs in her mobile to charge before mulling over the evening. As she does, a smile slowly pulls at her lips.

Well, she can’t make any assumptions yet, but...this is a good start.

Chatting with Obito quickly becomes a routine. Though not much of a texter before, she checks in and quips with him throughout the day. He tells her about his latest jobs, and she notes anything out of the ordinary at work. Days blend into a week, and then two.

“So…”

“Hm?”

Leaning against the counter, Ryū’s coworker smirks. “Seems to me you hooked one, huh?”

Her cheeks flush pink. “Um...maybe…”

“You haven’t put your phone down for more than fives minutes all day!”

The pink gets darker as the other woman laughs.

“I’m glad! So, you gonna see him?”

“Yeah, eventually...I think we’re both a little nervous.”

“That’s adorable. You’ll have to let me know how it goes! Been nice seeing you look so bright lately.”

Ryū blinks. “...really?”

“Yeah. No offense, but...ever since I’ve worked here, you’ve been so quiet and to yourself. But lately you’ve just seemed more upbeat and...I dunno, out there.”

The observation admittedly takes her a bit off-guard. “...oh…”

“It’s just nice to see you look happy, that’s all. I know a job like this one’s kinda drudgy. Glad you’ve got something to keep your chin up.” With a smile, the other pharmacist straightens and heads back to work.

Still a bit struck, Ryū mulls all that over. True, she’s always been one to keep her nose to the grindstone. Maybe having a bit of a social outlet just...got her going to opening up some more.

...huh.

So...any openings in your schedule coming up?

Uh...I haven’t really checked lately. One sec!

Waiting for Obito’s reply, Ryū nibbles her thumbnail. She’s going to do it. She’s going to ask him over. By now she’s gotten to know him pretty well. She’s always been able to trust her gut, and...she believes she can trust him.

Though just in case, she’ll be letting her neighbor know when he comes to visit.

Just to be safe.

So I think I actually have Sunday clear. Does that work with you?

Yeah! I’m always on a Monday through Friday schedule, so weekends are almost always good with me!

Okay...cool!

Any idea what you wanna make?

Make?

Yeah! Remember, we talked about cooking…?

Ohhh, yeah! Uh...honestly I don’t have any preference.

You sure?

Yeah, just no aubergines.

I remember, haha.

Should I bring anything?

Nah, I’ll handle it. Though I guess if you have a movie you’d like to watch?

Ooh, okay! Uh...any you don’t like?

Maybe nothing too gory…?

Aw, that’s no fun!

I saw enough in medical school, believe me...it’s not fun.

Okay, okay. I’ll pick something.

And with a few other details hashed out...they have a date scheduled.

Ryū’s stomach can’t stop fluttering: both in excitement, and in nerves. She hasn’t really dated since college...what if she does something stupid? Offends him somehow? Or something just goes...wrong?

Okay, no, stop it. It’s gonna be fine. You’ve talked a lot, so...no need to be nervous. Just do it!

By the time Sunday rolls around, she’s as ready as she’ll ever be.

Fiddling with her hair in the bathroom mirror (can she EVER get it to do what she wants?), she jumps as someone knocks on the door. Trying to manage her nerves, she peers through the little peephole, spying what indeed looks to be Obito.

Taking a moment to steady her breath, she pulls open the door and looks up just as he looks over.

...oh.

She always thought his photo gallery on his profile was a bit...empty. At first she hadn’t really noticed that all of Obito’s photos had been taken showing one side of his face.

So only now, with him looking straight at her, does she see what he’s been hiding.

The apprehension in his face clearly shows he’s awaiting her reaction, and at first she can only blink. Eyes naturally slide to the right side where a plethora of scars mar the skin from his brow to his chin. One even reaches up into his lip.

But though it’s a surprise by novelty, it otherwise does nothing to hinder the blush in her face.

...gosh he’s handsome.

Her gaze lingers on the scars for only a moment before lifting back to his eyes, cheeks rosy and giving a demure smile. “...hi.”

“...hey.”

There’s a few beats of awkward silence, the pair of them stuck staring at each other. “...s-sorry! Um...come on in!” Ryū steps aside, going hotter in the face. A nice button-up shirt and clean jeans make him look quite snazzy. Seems her blouse and skirt wasn’t too much or too little. They hadn’t really breached any ideas about how formal to be…

Stepping in, Obito glances around before clearing his throat. From behind his back he draws a little bouquet of flowers. “Er...for you.”

Ryū’s greys alight with delight. “Oh!” It’s cliché as all hell, but she loves them. Delicately accepting the blooms, she gives them a sniff before beaming at him. “Thank you! I, er...I don’t have anything for you…”

“That’s okay! I mean, food’s good with me, heh.”

Giving a giggle, Ryū retreats to the kitchen to put them in some water, setting the vase on her little table. “There…!”

“You...have a really nice apartment!”

“Thank you...I’m always either working or tired, so I don’t manage to mess it up much,” she laughs. “I tried to make it kinda...cute. I’m not exactly an interior designer.”

“No, it’s nice. It suits you.”

That makes her go pink all over again. “...s-so! Um...are you hungry…?”

Obito gives a grin. “Always!”

“Okay! Um...I thought we’d do something a bit...basic? Just in case? Do you like spaghetti…?”

“Yeah!”

“...okay! Cool. Um…” Awkwardness creeping back up, she claps her hands and giggles nervously. “Then, I...guess we’ll give it a try!”

The pair move back into the kitchen, where Ryū already has everything sorted out and ready to go. “Wow...looks professional.”

“Oh gosh, it’s just…” She gestures vaguely. “...I wanted to be ready so we wouldn’t waste any time…” Turning on the heat under the water, she thinks to ask, “...no food allergies, right?”

“No. At least...none I’ve found…? And I’ve had spaghetti before, it should be fine, hm?”

“Okay!”

A bit stuttery at first, she starts guiding him through her process, letting him take most of the reins and acting more as a guide. Obito listens attentively, looking exceedingly focused.

...it’s adorable.

“Okay, so with the grease drained off, we can add our sauce...and once it’s all combined, that’ll be that!” She, in the meantime, worked on a salad mix. “And the garlic bread should be about done, too!”

“You make this all seem so easy.”

She flushes pink. “It...just takes practice! And you did really well!”

“I had a good teacher.”

Once it’s all finished, the pair of them ferry things to the table. “Okay...you try it first.”

“Me?”

“Mhm! You made it, right?”

Glancing to his plate, Obito twirls some noodles onto his fork, lightly pink at Ryū’s watching as he takes the bite and chews. “...it’s good!”

Beaming again, she follows suit. And it’s perfect! Mouth still full, she gives a thumbs-up, making him laugh. Between spaghetti, salad, garlic bread, and a little wine, they get through dinner with hearty conversation and increasing laughter.

“I dunno why I was so nervous,” she admits once they’re done, a cheek leaning against a fist as she twirls the last few sips of her wine. “I mean...we’ve been talking so much already. Guess I just felt kinda...out of practice. Y’know?”

“Yeah, me too. Though I try to bravado my way through things.”

“Well, we got through it. Should we play the movie…?”

“Sure!” He holds up a thumbdrive, grinning. “From my collection.”

“Oho!”

With a refill of wine, they move into the little living room of the apartment, Obito hooking up the TV and starting the film.

“What is it?”

“You’ll see!”

“Not gory, right?”

“Nooo. But...maybe a little scary.”

“Scary is okay. I like spooks. Just not lotsa blood and flesh and…” Her nose wrinkles. “...y’know.”

“Ha, yeah.”

They settle on the one couch she has, and at first sit...a little ways apart. They’d had opposite sides of the table before, and...well, this is new. But like a couple of dumb teenagers, they slowly meander their way closer, testing the other’s boundaries as they go until Ryū finds herself snuggled up against Obito’s side, head on his shoulder.

Obito, just out of her line of sight, is clearly ecstatic.

The movie starts out tame, but true to his word, it quickly takes on a rather creepy tone. Transfixed, Ryū stares at the screen, slowly worming her way further and further into the dip of Obito’s side.

...if she weren’t so focused on the movie, she’d realize that was likely his plan.

Obito, on the other hand, has technically already seen this one, and instead mostly watches for her reactions. The closer they get to a big scare, the more often he looks, biting back a grin until it finally happens -!

Shrieking in terror, Ryū scrambles for someplace to hide, and...ends up burrowing into his chest with a string of garbled, frightened nonsense as Obito does his best not to laugh.

“You okay?”

“I -! That -!” Her head shakes with a whimper, still hiding. “Nope. Nope nope nope.”

“Want me to stop it?”

“...nooo…” One grey peeks out, finding the screen a bit more bearable now. “...that was fricken’ terrifying! Ohhh my gosh!”

He just snickers, ignoring her continuing whines of discomfort. “It’s almost over, don’t worry.”

To his delight, she remains half-perched on his lap for the rest of the film. Once the credits start to creep up the screen, she loses her tension and goes limp. “...I almost had a heart attack…”

“Aw…”

“I mean it was good! But cripes, I wasn’t ready...eugh…”

Obito rubs a hand along her back, still clearly amused. “Gonna be able to sleep tonight?”

“...I better, I have work in the morning…”

He apologizes, watching as she tears herself from the couch and disappears into the kitchen. “...Ryū?”

No answer.

Brow furrowing, he makes to follow just in time to see her pull a pan out of the refrigerator. “What’s that?”

“Peach cobbler,” she sniffs, setting it on the counter and then fetching vanilla ice cream. “This is my reward for surviving your movie.”

“You’re gonna eat the whole pan?”

She shoots him a pout. “...maybe.”

He mirrors the look. “...I want some…”

“You have to promise never to scare me like that again.”

“Okay, okay. But wasn’t it at least a little fun…?”

Scooping the food into bowls, she thinks back over how nice and warm it was in his arms...and she could smell his cologne… “...maybe a little.”

They stay standing in the kitchen, leaned against the counter as they eat their dessert. Though not as lively as before, they chat in the quiet.

“So...on a scale of one to ten, how was our date?”

Ryū sucks on her spoon with a thoughtful hum. “...a nine.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”

“Why not a ten?”

“Because you scared the bejesus out of me!” After a moment to pout, she asks, “...you?”

“A ten.”

“...really?”

“Good food, good movie...good company. What’s not to love?”

She...isn’t sure how to respond to that, so she takes another bite to excuse her silence.

“We’ll have to try cooking something else next time. Something spicy!”

“Not too spicy, it’ll make me sick!”

“Whaaat?”

“I have a delicate stomach...nothing too greasy, either.”

“That’s all the good food!” he laughs.

“It’s not my fault!”

“Fine, fine...we’ll figure something out. I’ll have to find some of my grandmother’s recipes. From Quebec.”

That earns a blink. She thought she heard traces of an accent in his voice, but didn’t want to assume. “...sure! I’d really like that.”

But eventually, the bowls and the wine glasses are empty. The movie is over. The hour is growing late.

It’s time to call it a night.

...but it’s clear neither of them really want to.

Obito offers to help tidy up, and that helps take a little more time. But once that’s done, there’s really no more excuses.

“...well…” Ryū fidgets a bit. “Guess I’ll...say goodnight?”

“Yeah, I better go. Don’t want to keep you up to late. And I’ve got my route in the morning.”

“Mm…”

She walks him to the front door, the pair of them lingering in the opening for a long moment. “...be safe on your way home. Text me to let me know you made it okay, all right?”

“Yeah, sure.”

“And to say goodnight.”

“...again.”

“...yeah, again.”

Another pause.

Indecision seeming to make her bones vibrate, Ryū eventually makes up her mind. Stepping up a bit closer, she lays a hand against Obito’s chest and - with a bit of posturing up on her toes - she gives him a feather-light press of her lips to his.

Flashing pink, he nonetheless reciprocates, both of them easing slowly back apart.

“...goodnight, Obito.”

“...night, Ryū. I’ll...talk to you later.”

Nodding with a shy smile, she watches him head down the hall before forcing herself to shut the door. For a moment, she stands and holds the knob...then turns and leans against it with a sigh.

...it seems so quiet in here now…

Eyes lift to her little dining room table, where the flowers he brought her are still sitting in their vase. The sight brings her a small smile. As much as she’s sad to see him go...well, that just means she’ll get to look forward to seeing him again next time.

Next time...what a lovely concept.

Heaving a more contented breath, she makes her way back into the apartment. Time to get ready for bed, and wait to hear he got home okay. Then she’ll sleep, and start all over again.

...but at least now there’s something to look forward to.

Another of my art for the Naruto OC x Canon Ship Week! 

With @kusunokihime ‘s OC Suigin Ryu x Uchiha Obito The ship trope: Coffee Shop! ♥ 

“So...you’re really going, huh?”

Standing under the arch of Konoha’s main gate, Ryū stares back at Minato with a somber, yet determined expression. She offers a muted nod. “Mhm.”

The blond’s hands are stuffed in his pockets, trying to appear nonchalant. But they both know he doesn’t feel nearly as cool as he looks. “It’s...gonna be really weird having you be the one absent, huh?”

In spite of herself, her lips flicker into a momentary smile. “Yeah...just when you’re back, it’s my turn to leave.”

“...any idea how long you’ll be gone?”

“I...really don’t know.” Her gaze lowers slightly. “I guess it just depends how long it takes me to master everything. It could be a year, it could be...many years. I can’t really be sure.”

After a pause, Minato sighs, posture hunching for a moment. “...I’m happy you found it. I know that’s been eating at you for a long time. Just...wasn’t expecting it to take you out of the village that long.”

“Neither did I…” Ryū’s greys look to the north despite the obstacles between her and her target. “When the war ended...I wanted to get some closure. Just...see it with my own eyes. Affirm it was over, that...there was nothing to go back to. I never expected to find anything there alive...let alone a sage.” She then turns back to Minato, and there’s a light in her eyes he hasn’t seen for far too long. “She knows everything…! About the village, and my family...all the way back to their roots. I have so much to learn from her about where I came from...and my clan’s techniques. I’ll finally know who I am...and be able to get even stronger.”

Finally, a sad smile lifts Minato’s lips. “Yeah...m’happy for you, Ryū. It’s just gonna be awfully quiet around here without you. And I’m gonna miss my medic lessons.”

“I’ll have so much more to teach you when I’m done training! And I bet you’ll still be learning loads, otherwise. We’ll both be shocked how different we are when I...get back…”

The pair fade into silence.

“...well, you be careful. Just because the war is over doesn’t mean it’s totally safe out there. You sure you’re all right going by yourself…?”

“Yeah, I’ll be okay. I’m actually going most of the way with a trading caravan headed north when they leave Konoha. By the time we’ll part ways, it’ll be up into the mountains. I doubt anyone will bother me there.” She offers a more steady smile. “Maybe you can write to me, ne? That’ll make time go a little faster. And we can keep up with how we’re doing!”

“I’d like that.”

Another long pause, neither sure what else to say.

“...I’m gonna miss you, Ryū.”

Like a crack in a dam, her expression falters, chin trembling and eyes going glossy with tears. “...y-yeah...I’ll miss you, too…” Biting her lip, she then throws aside inhibitions and closes the gap between them, latching onto Minato tightly.

Barely catching her, his eyes go wide before embracing her back, feeling her shaking. He’s not going to cry...he can’t…

“Take...take care of yourself, o-okay?” she murmurs. “I won’t be around to patch you up.”

“I’ll be careful.”

“I mean it! The war’s over, so no unnecessary risks. You better be just as I left you when I get back!”

That earns a soft snicker. “I promise. Though...I might be a little taller.”

“...I’ll allow it,” she sniffs.

They stand there a long moment before parting, Ryū’s face rosy from her little outburst.

“You better be careful too, Ryū.”

“I will. I’m sure shishō will keep a close eye on me.”

“Suppose you can’t get much safer than with a sage, huh?”

“...mhm…”

“Oi, Minato!”

Startling, both youths turn to see the blond’s sensei approaching. “Jiraiya!”

“So, I hear someone’s starting off on a journey!” the toad sage offers, hands on his hips. “Being left behind, are you Minato?”

He stiffens slightly. “Ryū’s off to get more medical training, sensei. I already told you.”

“Yes, yes...which reminds me…” His arms move to cross over his barrel chest, teeth gleaming with a grin. “I thought I’d ask if you’d like to go on a little adventure of your own!”

“...what do you mean?”

“Well, we can’t have you outmatched by your friend now, can we? She’ll be a sage next time you see her! So, what if you got a little sage training of your own…?”

Minato blinks...and then pales. “...you mean...with you? W-with the toads?”

“Of course! Don’t tell your teammates, but uh…” He leans in, a hand at his mouth conspiratorially. “You’ve got a mountain of promise, Minato. And I want to see that molded into something great! You’ve got the makings of a Hokage in you, I’m sure of it!”

The boy’s expression goes slack with shock. “...me…?”

“Yes, you! So, how about it? It can be a little...race between the two of you! See who reaches sagehood first, hm? Nothing like a little rivalry between childhood friends now, is there? It’ll help spur you forward!”

Both youths blink before glancing at each other. “I...I guess so,” Ryū replies, tone and expression a bit demure. “It would be really neat…! If we both became sages?”

Clearly still surprised, Minato gives a slow nod. “...yeah…”

“Then it’s settled! We can leave for Myōbokuzan whenever you feel like setting out. I imagine you’ve got a little preparation to do, after all. You just holler, and we can go!”

“O...okay…!” 

It’s then that a chorus of wooden wheels sound against the street, and the trio turn to see the scheduled caravan making its way toward the gate. “Oh! That’s my ride!” Ryū exclaims.

Not expecting it so soon, Minato feels his chest tighten, watching as she goes to speak with one of the traders.

“...so…”

“Eh?”

Glancing down to his pupil thoughtfully, Jiraiya asks, “Say everything you wanted to say before she leaves…?”

Minato balks. “Huh?”

“You know, sage training takes most people a few years, if they succeed at all. Odds are...you’re not going to see her for quite some time. So if there’s anything you want to tell her...you might want to do it now.”

Slowly, a hint of pink grows in Minato’s cheeks. Something he...wants to tell her?

“Minato!”

Startled yet again, he staggers back as Ryū gives him one last tight embrace. “R-Ryū?”

“Good luck on your journey…!” She pulls back, giving him a warm smile. Oddly enough, she’s still rosy-cheeked.

“You, uh...you too.”

For a moment, the pair stand in their pseudo-hug, and Minato finds himself oddly...frozen. It feels like there’s something he should be doing, and yet...all he can get himself to do is blink.

“Well...safe travels little lady!” Jiraiya then offers, breaking whatever spell the pair were under. 

“Y...you too, Jiraiya-sama, Minato!” Giving her friend one last glance, Ryū then turns and hops astride one of the wagons. With their papers cleared, the caravan then begins to pass beneath the archway.

“You were awfully quiet.”

Watching the carts go, Minato is silent for a long moment. “...not yet.”

“Hm?”

“I...I can’t tell her yet. When we meet again - when I’m stronger - then I’ll do it.”

Looking in surprise to his student, Jiraiya blinks before chuckling, a hand patting Minato on the back. “...I understand. I’ll go speak to the Sandaime about our leaving. Once we’ve got everything in order, we can head out ourselves.”

Nodding, Minato sees his sensei head toward the Administrative building. There’s an odd kind of...weight in his chest. Without intending them, a handful of memories drift through his mind. From their first introduction in her office to the day she returned from her home’s ruins with news of what she found, various scenes with Ryū’s face - some happy, some sad, some...indescribable - bring a soft smile to his face. 

When he sees her again, he’ll be ready. For now...he’s got planning to do.

“Fall back!”

Flickering behind a tree trunk, Minato waits patiently as a blast of hot air gushes past both sides of his cover. Cinders and ash streak by him, senses honed and waiting for an opening. There are still three dozen or so foreign signatures between him and his goal. Alongside him, there are only four of his allies remaining.

Whoever scouted the intel for this mission better hope they never cross paths. Lightly guarded his ass. 

“Namikaze-taichō! What should we do?”

Mind going over what he knows and attempting to come up with a plan, the seventeen year old glances to the remaining jōnin beside him. All are wounded, uncertainty clear in their eyes. 

“...stay here. I’m going to try and get past their line. Once I do, we can hit them from both sides. Wait until they’ve turned their backs to face me, then strike. Until then, anyone with doton should try to make some kind of barricade to fall back to if necessary, and maybe lay some traps if you can. Wait for my signal.”

“Hai!” 

Peering around the scorched remains of his hiding place, Minato takes a moment to concentrate, suppressing his chakra signature as tightly as he can. Then bursts of speed take him from trunk to trunk, working his way toward a gap in their front line. If he can just -

Flickering one last time, his body tenses as it’s brought to a painful halt. Frozen in place mid-stride, Minato’s heart leaps as he realizes he’s passed a locking tripwire seal. How did he not -?!

“Over there!”

Doing his best to overload the technique and free himself, Minato gives a cry as a heavy fist nails him right in the gut. Flying backward and still partially paralyzed, he crashes against a stone that cracks on impact. Air wheezes from his lungs, vision flickering as his brain rattles.

...shit.

Doing his best to haul himself to his feet despite his protesting muscles, Minato’s eyes go wide as another enemy nin streaks forward, hand signs indicating an incoming suiton barrage.

“Senpō: Bōei no kabe!”

With a flash of energy, a dome of translucent white chakra erects over him, earning a startle as he falls back on his rear. Beyond the barrier, water gushes and parts over the half sphere.

What -?!

From the canopy above him, slipping through the shield like a spectre, a figure lands in a silent crouch a few paces in front of Minato. Staring, it takes him a moment to process both what he sees, and what he feels.

“...Ryū…?”

Standing upright, a young woman turns to behold him. She’s taller, with longer white waves held back in a tail. But the same doe-like greys look him over before giving a grin.

“Not exactly how I planned to see you again, but I guess this will have to do.” Glancing back toward the enemy, she then kneels beside him. “Hold still, ne?”

“Wha-?”

Tugging up his shirt, she nips a thumb before painting a seal on his skin with crimson. Then her palm plants against it, a burst of chakra bleeding through his body and earning a gasp. “Hold still for a minute - let that do its work. Once you’re back on your feet, you can lend me a hand.”

“But -!” Body heavy, Minato watches her approach the wall of the barrier. Senses still piqued, he can feel her reserve suddenly opening up and overflowing.

...a sage state.

Like phantoms, large limbs of chakra form over her arms: the same ghostly-white chakra as the shield. Tipped with claws, the huge hands slip with her through the barrier.

“Ryū, wait!” Managing to shift to his knees, Minato coughs. He can still feel her chakra hot against his skin, seeping down and singeing its way through to his injuries. Slowly, the ache in his back, the ringing in his head, and the bruise along his torso begin to fade. While not a full healing, it negates enough of the wounds to leave him feeling back on his feet.

...well I’ll be damned.

Taking a deep breath and feeling no pain, Minato glances up and grins. Outside, Ryū’s chakra-formed limbs rake and tear at foes beyond the shield, blocking jutsu and strikes alike. While he can’t know just by looking, he has to wonder if it’s the same energy as the bubble currently protecting him.

Just what all did she learn while she was gone?

Approaching the white wall of chakra, Minato lifts a hand, finding himself able to phase through.

“Namikaze-taichō, who -?”

“No time to explain - she’s an ally! You all stay here. We’ll handle this.” Taking out a handful of tri-bladed kunai, Minato tosses each to strategic parts of their makeshift battlefield. And with bursts of chakra, he begins hopping to each enemy, dodging their blows and exchanging some of his own.

In what feels like both hours and minutes...it’s over.

Slowing to a stop, Minato sweeps the clearing with his senses. While all he fought are dead, those Ryū finished off are still alive, bodies completely slack and unable to move.

“Does Konoha take prisoners?”

“...I don’t see why not,” he replies, turning to her in surprise. “Not the killing sort?”

She gives a shake of her head. “It goes against my master’s teachings. I’m supposed to save lives, not take them.”

“...guess I can’t fault you for that.” Glancing to his remaining teammates, Minato asks, “Got enough energy left to do some patch work?”

“Of course. You work on the enemy nin, and I’ll see to your teammates.”

Watching her go, Minato can’t help but feel...off. There was no tearful reunion, no...well, anything he’s planned out in his mind all this time. He can’t but feel a bit cheated, but...maybe they’ll have time for that later. For now, there’s other things to worry about.

By the time he’s tied up the nin she left alive, Ryū is just finishing the basics with his squadmates. All four watch her a bit warily, torn between relief and doubt.

“Everyone, this is Suigin Ryū. She’s a medic, and an ally of Konoha’s. Nothing to worry about. Now, we still need to fetch the intel, and then get these prisoners back to Konoha for questioning. We just might get something extra with them left alive.”

“I can help with the legwork.” With another nip of her thumb, Ryū executes a summoning contract. As the vapor clears, a sooty-spotted white owl stands in the clearing.

Minato’s head barely comes up to its chest.

“Monban, I need you to take this lot to Konoha’s intelligence department. Tell them they’re from Namikaze Minato’s current assignment, and he’ll be following along shortly.”

“Of course, Ryū-sama.” Ducking to let the prisoners be strapped to his back, the avian then takes to the skies.

“So...got yourself a summon?”

“One or two,” she replies vaguely. “I’ll introduce you once things...quiet down, ne?”

“...right.”

Once the location is cleared and everyone fit to travel, Ryū does so alongside them, the trek back to Konoha done mostly in silence. In spite of himself, Minato can’t help the occasional glance her way. Questions burn the back of his tongue, but...she’s right. This is neither the time nor the place for it.

The gate sees them checked back in, Ryū providing her papers and given a pass to return. While she escorts his teammates to the hospital, Minato makes his way to the administration building.

“Minato,” Hiruzen greets as he enters the Hokage’s office, looking a bit surprised. “You’ve returned so soon?”

“I...got a little help. Did our delivery make it here in one piece?”

The old man blinks just as an ANBU flickers to his side. Whispered words are exchanged before the officer vanishes. “...it seems it has,” the third replies, chewing thoughtfully on the stem of his pipe. “This mission saw you cleared for lethal action.”

“And we took it, in part. A few were left alive, and we thought they might give some additional insight.”

“I see...and the files?”

Holding out a sealing scroll, Minato hands it over wordlessly.

“Perfect. I’ll have our decoding team begin deciphering these immediately. Thank you, Minato. You are dismissed.”

“Thank you, Hokage-sama.” Giving a curt bow, Minato wastes no time in flickering his way to the hospital.

“Yes, thank you.” Turning from the mouth of the main hallway, Ryū comes up short as he stands just behind her. “Oh! When did you -?”

“Are they all right?”

She blinks, and then nods. “Yes. A few major injuries, but nothing life-threatening. I patched up what I could. A few days and they should be fine.” There’s a small pause. “...how many -?”

“Three. Two four-man cells. Our intelligence was...incomplete, it would seem. We weren’t prepared for the defenses we met.”

“I see...I’m sorry I didn’t get there sooner.”

“I’m just glad you showed up when you did. Been a while since I was hit that hard…” Fading to silence, he leans back a bit as Ryū in turn leans forward. Greys squinting, she gives him a once-over. “...uh -?”

“You did indeed get taller. And I suppose you’re still technically in one piece. Guess that means I can let you off the hook.”

Blinking, he stares at her for a moment before relaxing with a nervous chuckle. “Thought I was in for it there for a second.”

“Very nearly,” she replies, arms crossing. “But I think you’ve had a rough enough day as it is, ne…?”

“Yeah...can’t argue there.”

Looking to him thoughtfully, Ryū then softens. “...it’s so good to see you, Minato...been a long couple of years without your sunshine to brighten my days.”

Balking just a hair, Minato struggles against a creeping warmth in his cheeks. “It, uh...it’s good to see you too. Been waiting to come back to you lurking in my apartment.”

In spite of herself, she laughs. “Believe me, I thought about it. But it seems our paths were intended to cross before then. Otherwise, I might’ve.” Her expression turns a bit coy. “Guess you got quite the introduction to some new skills of mine, ne?”

“Sure did. You’ll have to show them all off.”

“Maybe later. For now, I’m glad to just wind down for the day. Wasn’t expecting to run into a fight on my way back. Walk with me, maybe…?”

“...sure.”

Leaving the hospital behind, the pair head out not toward the village center, but into the more residential sections. Fewer crowds, less noise.

“...so…”

Minato scoffs at the break in the silence. “Kinda hard to know where to start, huh?”

“Yeah...in a way everything feels the same. Like I just saw you yesterday. But at the same time, like it’s been forever.” Coming to a stop, Ryū hops atop a half-wall along their path. “Konoha hasn’t changed.”

“Did you expect it to?”

“No, not really. I guess it’s just odd because I’ve changed. Feels a bit...weird being back here now.”

Sitting beside her, Minato glances over. “Good weird, or…?”

“...just weird. I haven’t seen many people since I left. The crowds are a little...much after so much solitude.”

“Ha, I get that. There’s a lot of toads on Myōbokuzan, but...they’re rather different from people.”

That earns a laugh. “I can imagine. Suigin-sama is…” She heaves a thoughtful breath. “...very stoic. Very quiet. As much as I adore her, it did get lonely every so often. But I think it will take a little adjusting after all this time.”

“I’d imagine.”

“How long were you gone?”

“I’ve been back a few months.”

To his surprise, her lips purse in a childish pout. “So, you did beat me…”

“W-well, I mean...they were two totally different branches of sage training, right? I doubt we’d ever have finished at the same time. Even two students of the same teacher learn at different paces.”

“True...guess I’d just hoped it wouldn’t take me too long…”

He considers her a moment. “...the only part that was too long was not being able to see you.”

That gets her to jolt slightly. “...y-yeah, you’re right. If I’m being honest, I...wasn’t exactly sure what I was gonna say, or...how to say it.” She shrinks in on herself, and suddenly her bravado from the day is gone...and she’s just like how he remembers her. So shy and withdrawn. “...is it weird I practiced it in my head?”

“Heh, no...I was doing the same thing. But I guess that all got kinda jumbled, didn’t it?”

“Yeah, it really did. Not exactly the reunion either of us pictured, I’m sure.”

“Not quite. Wasn’t exactly expecting you to swoop in and save my ass.”

Ryū can’t help a rather unladylike snort. “Neither was I!”

“Weren’t showing off, were you?”

“No!” At his perked brow, she goes pink. “...okay, well...maybe a little. But mostly I just wanted to make sure you were okay! I saw you take that hit, and I…”

At her trailing silence, he sobers slightly. “...well, you got me patched up. Speaking of...what did you do?”

“It’s a chakra transfer and direction seal. Depending on the details of the symbols, it redistributes the chakra I gave you to the worst of your injuries. Rather than me directing it to heal manually, it sort of acts like...a speed up agent. Your body takes the extra energy and heals itself as it would naturally, just...faster with the excess. It helps my chakra’s attuned for it anyway. That’s all thanks to Suigin-sama.”

“...huh. You’ll have to show me later.”

“Mhm!”

With that, the conversations idles. When Ryū’s eyes cast out over the village, clearly taking in the long-missed image, Minato watches her from the corner of his own. Her face isn’t as rounded as it used to be, but is still rather heart-shaped. Unlike their wartime months growing as friends, there isn’t a heavy shadow to her gaze - no unending worry pinching her brows. Even the subtle hints of her posture are different: more relaxed, and less reserved. She seems a lot more confident, even if she still has her moments.

Clearly she didn’t just grow as a medic, but as a person, too. Though he’s still taller, she’s also gained some height.

And, er...other things.

Flushing slightly and removing his gaze for the moment, Minato asks, “So...are you going to stay in Konoha?”

“For now, yes. I’d still like to make trips back, but...I think overall, Konoha will be where I spend most of my time. My line used to be nomadic - the women would travel all over the continent and tend to anyone. But that’s...not really possible now, and having a steady home and a steady place to work is good for me, I think. I’ll still head home sometimes to brush up on training, or just...have some time to myself. It’s strange...as quiet and somber and haunted as home feels...I still feel more at ease there.”

That earns a pause. “...because there aren’t any shinobi?”

For a moment, she doesn’t answer. “...maybe. I can’t quite put my finger on it. It might just be the ties my family has to it. Something in my blood that can’t ever let go. We lived there for centuries, almost back to the time of the rikudō sennin. Suigin-sama brought us there, gave us her name, and her power. It’s like a bird that always has to return to the same nest where its egg was laid. I’ll always feel drawn there.”

“...I see.”

A moment longer she stares out over the village, and then Ryū turns to face Minato. Clearly steeped in her thoughts, her usually-expressive face is an odd neutral he can’t read as she flickers eyes over his face. “...but…”

“...but?”

She seems to hesitate. “...but there are things that draw me here, too.”

In spite of himself, Minato feels a flutter in his chest. “Oh...oh yeah?”

“...mhm.”

When she doesn’t elaborate, he feels himself grow nervous. “Well, I’m...I’m glad. I know this isn’t where you were born, but...it’s good to have you here. It wouldn’t be the same without you.”

She blinks, and then gives a soft smile. “...I’m happy that, to someone, I matter that much.”

“Of course you do!”

Balking a bit at his hurried reply, Ryū then can’t help a giggle. “And you matter to me, too. You’re still my best friend, Minato. Doesn’t matter how much time has passed.”

For just a moment, he hesitates.

Ah...friend.

...why does that word feel like a sinking stone in his chest?

Noticing his lagging, Ryū also pauses. “...is something wrong?”

“...no, it’s nothing.” 

“Minato…”

“Huh?”

Leaning around to his front, she studies him closely, seeing him stiffen at the proximity. “...you know you can’t hide things from me, right? I’m a much better sensor than I was before. Maybe not as good as you, but…”

Trying to get a hold on his heartbeat, Minato blinks, trying to keep his expression blank.

“...I can still tell when you’re nervous, as stoic as you try to be sometimes.” A spark of mischief alights in her eyes, the corners of her mouth lifting. “...is there something you want to tell me?”

“...tell you? Like...what?”

She heaves a soft sigh, gaze averting. “Nothing at all…? Even after all our time apart…?”

“...er…”

“Because...there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you.”

There’s no holding back the organ in his chest now. He swears she can probably hear it right through the skin. As hardened as a shinobi as he’s trained himself to be, Minato supposes there’s no denying one thing: he’s still a teenage boy. And even teenage boys with wars under their belts get frazzled in...situations like this. “W...what is it?”

“...ever since I left, even when I got lost in my training, and was exhausted from long days, or was buried in all I was learning about my past...I don’t think there was a single day I didn’t think about you. That I didn’t miss you. You were my first real friend in Konoha. As much as I admired my teachers, and as much as they supported me...it wasn’t the same as what I found with you. Whether it was the good days, or the...not so good days, I always felt better when you were around. But sometimes, it sort of...confused me. There’d be times where I’d feel warm for no reason, or nervous even though I had nothing to be nervous about. I thought...maybe there was something wrong with me.”

As she pauses, Minato just...stares, not wanting to interrupt. Oh gods...is this really happening?

“...but then I realized it wasn’t anything wrong. It was just something...new. Something different. You were my friend. My best friend. But you’d also come to mean more to me than that. You were my most important person. Even if, heh...I didn’t have many other people to compare you to…”

“...Ryū…”

“...you learn a lot about yourself when you’re alone. Truly alone. Up in the mountains, with nothing but the wind and the rain to listen to. It makes your own thoughts so much louder. So much clearer. And they were telling me something very important. Something I already knew, but wasn’t ready to admit.” Finally, she lifts her eyes back to his own. “...that I love you, Minato.”

As though caught in a vacuum, everything seems to go completely still. Staring back at her with wide blues, Minato vaguely feels heat in his cheeks. Did...did she really just say…?

“...I wondered if maybe...that wouldn’t be something you wanted to hear,” she then adds softly. “But we both know one thing: life can be tragically short. There’s no war right now, but...there will likely be another eventually. We might not make it through it. So I just...wanted you to know that.”

Struggling to speak, Minato feels his throat close up. Say something, damn it! She’s getting the wrong idea!

“...so, if you’d rather have some time to...to think, and -”

“N-no!”

She startles, not expecting the outburst. “...no…?”

Breaking free of his fog, Minato carefully takes her arms in his hands, looking to her fervently. “...no, I...I don’t need time to think. When you went to go train...Jiraiya-sensei asked me if I had anything to say before you left. And...and I did. But I didn’t feel ready. I wanted to be stronger. To be...more than I was. Older, maybe a little wiser, a little more...sure. Because there’s a lot that I know, and...a lot that I don’t know. But even after these years apart, one thing hasn’t changed. And that’s...how much you mean to me. We met when we were pretty young. When things were so unsettled, and dangerous. I think maybe I was afraid. Afraid that...somehow, war would tear us apart, however that might have happened. That if I got any closer, and I lost you...I wouldn’t recover. I couldn’t take that leap. Maybe that makes me a coward.”

“Minato, no -!”

“But if today proved anything, it’s that maybe I’m not as strong or as clever as I might think I am. And that maybe you’re not as fragile and at-risk as I thought you were. That maybe I don’t have to be afraid anymore. Maybe being afraid in the first place was stupid, because even if I didn’t admit it...I was still as close as I feared getting. That I loved you too...as much as someone my age could love someone, at least. I’m all out of excuses.” His lips flicker upward. “...so maybe you did grow faster than I did. Because you were brave enough to say it first, huh?”

After a shocked pause, greys almost glowing with elation, Ryū slowly breaks into a smile...which is soon joined by happy tears. Without a word, she loops arms around his neck, clinging to him tightly.

With the words out and unable to be taken back, Minato gently returns the hold. “...so I guess that’s it then, huh?”

“I was so n-nervous…”

“Really? Didn’t seem that way to me at all. If anything, I was the one bumbling things. That...wasn’t exactly my area of expertise.”

“Me neither…” Shyly, Ryū withdraws enough to meet his eyes. “...you really…?”

“Yeah, I do,” he replies, not needing her to finish the question. “That, uh...that might’ve been part of what I was always practicing in my head. To say to you, when you got back.”

“Really? Me too!”

The pair of them devolve into a mess of laughter.

“We’re both pretty pathetic aren’t we?” Ryū manages to ask between giggles, wiping at her eyes.

“Guess that’s why we get along so well.”

Flushed pink and beaming, Ryū gently leans against his shoulder. This has been a far cry from her daydreaming the last few years, but...she’ll take it.

“So...now that that’s out of the way...now what?”

She snorts. “I...have no idea. Though I think for the most part, nothing all that much needs to change, ne? We’ll just...figure out the rest as we go.”

“I suppose.”

“...though I guess I should talk to Sarutobi-sama about an apartment. And rejoining the hospital staff. I wonder if I’ll have to do my exams again…”

It takes Minato a moment to process all of that. “...wait...you don’t have your apartment?”

“No. I figured it would be silly to keep it since I’d be gone so long. Besides, it was...really tiny,” Ryū admits sheepishly. “I’d like to have something a little bigger. Though I don’t really have much of anything to put in one…”

“...do you need a couch to crash on?”

Glancing up, she blinks. “...I-I don’t want to impose -?”

“I’d hardly call that imposing.”

“W...well, I’ll see what the Hokage says. I guess if I need to, then...then I can.” Her cheeks flash pink again. “But it shouldn’t be much of a problem.”

“Just let me know.”

“I will.”

The pair sit in a peaceful silence for a time, watching the parts of the village they can see go about their day. Neither of them seem all that motivated to move.

But as the afternoon ages, Ryū heaves a sigh. “...well...maybe I should do that sooner rather than later…”

“Yeah, probably a good idea. Want me to go with you?”

“No, that’s all right. You should get some rest, anyway - I might’ve given you a boost, but you still need to recuperate after that fight today, ne?”

He sighs. “...guess so.”

“I’ll let you know how things go. I’ll stop by if I need to, but...I guess otherwise, I’ll send you a message in the morning?”

“Sure! We’ll try and have a more proper first day back for you then, huh?”

She giggles. “That would be nice, yeah.” Hopping from the wall, she turns back to face him. “Go rest, okay?”

“Yes ma’am.”

There’s a brief look at his retort before she starts heading back the way they came.

Watching her go, Minato then heaves a long, slow sigh. Bits and pieces of the day run back through his mind. It’s funny, he expected to feel, well...more. Like he could float to the moon. And while he’s undoubtedly ecstatic, it’s in a more calm sort of way. Like...an extension of what he already had. A natural progression. From childhood friends to...well, whatever this is. He supposes he can call her his girlfriend now, it just...feels a little odd, yet.

...oh well. There’ll be plenty of time to get used to that. For now, he better do as the doctor’s ordered. Last thing he wants is a scolding.

He has a feeling her threats might hold a bit more weight to them now.

                                                           [ @uchiha-madara ]                                                                   𝕩      𝕩      𝕩                                                                   𝕩      𝕩      𝕩                                                                   𝕩      𝕩      𝕩