When Mercury Mixes With Jade

Alright, here goes chapter eight. I know it’s going slowly, but it takes time for me to crank out the good stuff. Wouldn’t you rather it be really good after waiting a while than for it to be complete garbage after a couple of weeks? Granted, my one-shots only take a few weeks, but there wasn’t any real substance to them, save for vague plot and lots of smex. This will take me a while, and will be the greatest Shino/Sakura fic that I will ever have the pleasure to bring to existence. I remember the first time I thought of this story….I was only sixteen at the time, and I was waiting to become old enough to post on this site. I had everything planned out, even the lemon scenes! It was a way for me to vent my hormonal frustrations, and I’m even surprised at some of the lemon scenes I wrote when I was younger. If my cheeks could get red, they would’ve been.


I want to clear up some confusion…this is the final part of this particular chapter, not the end of the story. Shino and Sakura haven’t even confessed their feelings to one another yet! Plus, this might be the biggest chapter out of all three parts, seeing as this is a transitional chapter. Not only that, there are a few songs that are inside of this chapter, one of them being the dance the girls perform, called ‘Tsuki No Ie’ sung by Arai Akino, which translates literally to ‘Moon’s House’ or ‘House of the Moon’. The second song that Sakura dances to alone is called ‘Evening’ by Toshiro Masuda. It’s one of the more popular songs on the Naruto soundtrack, and is one of my favorites, alongside ‘Jiraiya’s Theme’ and ‘Yura Yura’. There is no way for me to describe the song, you’ll just have to listen to it yourself....I recommend it, it’s a nice song, even though it’s only 94 seconds long...


As I sit here, I have no idea how I’m going to incorporate the songs into this chapter without it looking retarded. I sigh, nonetheless.


Kiyasume

*~*Authoress Notes*~*

Saitochan: Yeah, I can't believe it either, but, it makes more sense that there would be more. Yaoi isn't allowed on public telly here in america, so the only way some girls (or guys) will get the yaoi action they desire is through sites such as these, or pornography.

No, absolutely not. 40 chapters isn't very long at all, considering the size of each chapter. Besides, there is a lot going on, and no this next chapter will not be the last overall, but the last one for this set...I had to break it up, a lot was happening, and I didn't want you guys to wait too long.

Hah, well, simple isn't my game :). I have a unique gift of being able to include many main and side characters without being too overwhelmed. It makes for a better read, and really helps when I need a scene change. With so many characters, you'll want to know what's going on with them all, right?

Well, I love working with Kiba as well. So many complained about his peon-ish nature (which really seems more like him) so I decided to give his character a more serious role. It turned out better than I'd ever hoped, and it makes sense, I mean, he and Shino are like this right? *crosses fingers* Wouldn't it make more sense that he's be the one to look out for Shino's girl? Not that she needs looking out for, she'd probably be able to handle herself. But you know what I mean....


FadedPolaris: Sims, huh? Sounds interesting. Let me know how it works out. OF course I keep up with it...there is a sad lack of Shino/Sakura fics, and Shino doesn't get enough lovin'....poor boy.


Mrs.Cake: You....I depend on my hottest Shino/Sakura stories from you, missy. It's like crack, I just keep comin' back! lol Anyway, I'm glad you like it, you have a genuine like of the pairing, and I'm glad I decided to write this, it's made me a lot of friends :). THANK YOU for finishing 'Bugger Up'. It was HOT. REALLY hot. I bask in the ambience of your glory. *bows down* lol I have a few ideas for Shino/Sakura stories for you if you're ever interested, so hit me up if you feel like it.

Cliffhangers are my thing, I love making people love me and hate me all in one go..lol Besides, anticipation makes the read all the sweeter-- and surprise, here the next chapter is....early! Too much time on the hands, I was getting twitchy.


Kaggie_kitsune31 & Hopeful_spirit: Thanks! I will! I did!


zeroharm: I totally agree with you that he doesn't get enough lovin'. Shino is a fun character to work with, because not much is known about him, so he's easy to twist and turn into my own mold. I usually like to update when I say I will having a goal kicks the procrastinator part of me in the ass, and boy, do I need it :).


tamiri: LEt's not think of this as an 'impossible pairing' Just more....exotic. Not many people do it because they are afraid of what others will think. Since I've yelled my opinion, a lot more folks have been coming out and confessing that they love the pairing as well, and if I and a few authors being fearless is what it takes, then, so be it. I like to think that Masa-kun is reading our fanfiction, shaking his head, but getting some good ideas. So don't ever think that impossible is actually ever impossible. Just keep things the way you want them. Who knows? Someone important enough to make it true might like it.


zell-chan: Ohhh, zell-chan, you'll love this. I was even amazed at what I did, sometimes I don't believe it myself. Ahh, what do you take me for? *grin* Do you really think I am as perverted as that? Well, you are correct, but in this case, sadly, no. But don't worry, Shino abd sakura will be makin' babies in due time. Sheesh. Teh rabids are striking again, so smut will come soon in some shape or form in another story, mayhaps.


Wickedone43: You....... I like you. Your enthusiasm is refreshing. So I like you.

Finals went swell. Passed all my classes, so I won't have to take economics no more...*sticks tongue out*

I won't ruin anything...I've decided to make both Strawberries and IAIPF chaptered....I never intended to make the other one a chaptered fic, so it will remain a one shot. Both, though, are in hiatus, I don't know when my muse will persuade me to do more yet, not in the near future at least.

I will be doing a Gaara/Sakura one-shot soon...or maybe a chaptered fic...I always was attracted to the psychos and the introverts.

oohshiny: You are a ball of energy....I want to know what you're smoking, cause I want some of it! lol anyway, you are enthused about this too, so I shall keep it going, ne? There's a juicy part at the end you might like, so be a good little reader and enjoy! *pats head*

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As Sakura washed her face, and stripped her plain blue yukata from her frame, Ten-ten ran to get the wax and the cream, while Hinata and Ino smoothed out her furisode and inner yukata. They only had about forty-five minutes until Tsunade and Shino walked through those golden doors, and Sakura needed every bit of time she could salvage to ready herself for her performance. Sakura scrubbed jasmine oils onto her body as Ten-ten applied the thin coat of wax and then the white makeup on her face and neck. Sakura sighed as Ten-ten added kohl to her eyes and eyebrows. Hinata noticed Sakura’s distress, and wanted to know what had the pink-haired spitfire so down in the dumps.

“Sakura-chan, what’s the matter? You seem to be so distracted…” Sakura looked at the pearl-eyed heiress. A small smile graced her now maiko painted face. Count on Hinata to notice something wrong with someone. Sakura supposed all those years of shyness and quiet to be useful for observing the others around her. Sakura stood to put on her crimson yukata, tying it with the expertise of those that have done so for so long.

“I’m fine, Hinata. Don’t worry about me. I just hope that Shino-kun likes his birthday party…Aibiko-chan told me he tries to avoid having such things every year, and I hate to have to trick him, that’s all.” Sakura gave one of her secret smiles that Ino picked up on right away. Ino snickered, her deceptive beauty hiding the crinkles next to her eyes from glee. She added another charm to her upswept hair, tucking a few protesting strands behind her ear.

“I have a feeling it’s a little bit more than that, forehead. Methinks it might be a worry of the love variety…” Ino knew she had her pegged at how fast Sakura turned to defend herself. Ten-ten’s eyebrows rose, and Hinata looked…knowing. Sakura looked away, unable to come up with a comeback. Ino moved closer to her longtime friend, placing an arm around Sakura’s shoulders. She smiled, the crimson lip color accentuating her smile. Sakura looked at her friend pitifully.

“It’s about time, Sakura.” Ino smiled at her friend serenely. Sakura was in shock. Never had Ino shown such…grace about this particular subject. Ino looked disbelieving.

“Why do you look so shocked? All three of us see it, and this party is just the icing on the cake. We’ve seen how you two look at each other; ever since that get-together we had a few years ago. You may not have seen it then, but we knew you two would be together eventually. Sad that it has to be under the circumstances that it is, but your parents understood that they were ninja and that it was a possibility that they would be killed the way they were.” Ten-ten nodded, and Hinata’s face looked on in agreement. Sakura looked down in her lap.

“Sakura, everything will be just fine. It is apparent that he cares deeply for you at least. Shino-kun is my friend as well. He’s always quiet and seemingly introverted, but I notice that he treats the women in his life gently. Even if he does not feel the same, he will not break your heart so callously like the Uchiha did. Now come. We haven’t much time until lover-boy appears through those doors, ne?" Ten-ten surprisingly instructed Sakura gently.

Sakura shrugged on her kimono and tabi, the long elegant obi wrapped around her curvaceous frame firmly. Sakura tucked two golden fans with silver tassels into her obi snugly, smoothing out her kimono. Sakura sat as Ten-ten quickly styled her hair, throwing imitation sakura branch flowers and gold combs and pins of various flowers and butterflies in her hair, knowing that Shino might enjoy her wearing the small bugs in her hair. Just as Sakura stood to look herself over, Kiba burst through the door.

“Alright girls...it’s showtime. Find your places, and Sakura....” Kiba looked at Sakura looked at him inquiringly. He grinned, giving her the once over, and a double thumbs up.

“Good luck.” Sakura blushed, wondering how Kiba knew. Sakura shook her head as she glanced at Hinata, who was stuttering apologies. She smiled even wider, and then looked at herself in the large stage mirror. She looked perfect. The girls turned to exit the dressing room, and left out the door towards the stage.

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“Today is a very special day, Shino-chan.....very special. Not only are you an adult by shinobi standards, you are also an adult by your clan standards as well. You understand what needs to be done by now, right?” Tsunade walked down the well worn path with Shino leading away from the large Aburame gates. Shino walked alongside the village leader, feeling rather small in the woman’s presence. He was already taller than she was by a little, but she made him feel ten times smaller. He didn’t quite understand what she meant by ‘what needs to be done’. He knew that that could mean anything, that it could mean his training that would take place in the morning, his preparations for taking over…there were endless things she could be talking about, much to the bug wielder’s frustration. Although irritated, he did not show it, and merely asked her to clarify.

“I’m not quite sure I understand what you mean, Hokage-sama...” Shino scratched his head in confusion. Tsunade noticed they were entering the city part of Konoha, and that girls were giving him the once over. Hungrily, much to her dismay. Even her glares couldn’t keep the braver civilian girls and kunouichi from sneaking a peek. So she decided to be blunt with her clarification. She grinned, and slapped his back, albeit a bit too hard, a suggestive glance plastered onto her face.

“Well, it means that now is the time for you to be considering, if not looking for a suitable wife. You are to be the leader of the Aburame clan in three years, one of this village’s oldest and most powerful clans, and the sooner you have your line moving along the better…” Tsunade couldn’t ask for a more priceless picture than the usually stoic and unmovable young Aburame to nearly trip and stutter along his words, much like the shy Hyuuga heiress. A slight blush rose to his cheeks. Tsunade could now understand why he wore his usual coats.

“A w-wife? Hokage-sama, I –“ Tsunade grinned, ruffling his hair, still tall enough to reach his wild, unruly locks of hair. She bellowed out a laugh, Shino still not over the fact that she just said it so openly and blatantly.

“Yeah, yeah, I know, kid…you haven’t even got a girlfriend yet…but I think that might change soon, right?” Shino’s eyebrow arched inquisitively, and Tsunade just shot him a disbelieving look, as if to say ‘Duh…I’m the Hokage. I know everything!’. Tsunade clicked her tongue slightly, shaking her head. Apparently the boy had no idea how influential she was, and just what kind of information ran along the gossip lines of Konoha. She wrapped an arm around Shino, bringing him closer to her to whisper in what would seem to be secret. Shino was glad she wasn’t speaking so loudly anymore, but being so close to his Hokage was…unsettling. Shino grimaced lightly in embarrassment, smelling her unique scent of sake and white gardenia.

“Hah, I’ve seen the way you’ve been eyeing my apprentice, boy. You'd have to be blind and deaf not to see it. You got something for her, don’t you?” Tsunade expected Shino to stutter and go completely out of character again, but he surprised her this time. She supposed she wouldn’t be able to throw out anything indignant anymore without getting his cold and stoic exterior. His lips were set in a firm, grim line.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I have no attachments to Shizune-sama; besides, she is my senpai by twelve years...that would be unquestionably awkward on more than one level…” Tsunade smirked. So, this was a first…an Aburame playing stupid.

“What do you take me for boy, a dodo? Last I checked those birds were extinct, and not your intelligence. You know plain well I have two apprentices, and that there is no way I’d pick Shizune for you…she’s too good for you, so I picked my younger apprentice instead.” Tsunade waited for him to take the bait, and take it he did. Shino’s eyes couldn’t be seen from behind his black sunglasses, but Tsunade knew they were blazing with anger. She sighed. Apparently, staining her young apprentice’s honor would be what it would take to get the boy to spill his guts…otherwise he would just neatly deflect anything else she had to say. Truthfully, Sakura was quite close to surpassing her, and only needed about six more months of training to complete her legacy.

“With all due respect, Tsunade-sama, you have just stained Sakura-chan’s name by saying such a thing. Shizune-sama would never have been able to defeat Sakura-chan, I’ve seen the way they both fight, and Shizune might hold her own, but she would most certainly lose…” Tsunade’s eyebrows rose in slight question. She knew he liked the girl, but she didn’t know it ran this deep…Tsunade grinned. Perhaps it wouldn’t take much finagling to get things running smoothly. Tsunade let him go, and laughed. She stopped walking. Shino wondered what she was laughing at so easily. Tsunade wiped a tear out of her eye…it had been a while since she’d had a good laugh.

“So, I was right, you do like her. Quit playing stupid, I know you have feelings for her, Shino.” Tsunade calmed down, and eyed him seriously. Shino knew she was never one to throw her serious looks around; now was when Tsunade meant business. She turned to look off to one side, her eyes still cutting him from the side.

“I believe that you may just be what she needs to move on from her parents’ deaths. Indeed, you are an Aburame, but I know better. This outer façade is only for the rest of the villagers; it isn’t meant for those you care for deeply. I sensed the deep friendship and loyalty that both you and Sakura hold for each other, and I can tell you right now, that she holds you in high regard.” Tsunade took her eyes off of him to look at the huge sign above their heads. Shino’s heart dropped when he read the sign. His mind was elsewhere registering that somewhere inside of her, Sakura cared deeply while he mumbled out the words hesitantly.

“The Golden Tanto? But…Tsunade-sama….” He offered weakly. Tsunade bellowed with laughter again as she dragged the poor boy into the gates of the high class establishment.

“Man up boy, a few drinks won’t kill you. Let’s go.”

______________________________________________________________________________


Tsunade swung the doors open to see the mama-san back on her feet and greeting the Hokage humbly.

“My, my, what brings our esteemed Hokage into our midst? I am humbly honored!” Tsunade, used to the ass-kissing, pointed to Shino, who looked a little more worse for wear as she’d dragged him over the bridge and through the large golden double doors. The mama-san looked over at Shino, who was straightening his clothing, and fixing his askew glasses.

“It’s Aburame-sama’s birthday today…he turns 16.” The mama-san nodded quickly ushering Shino towards the back of the establishment, towards the golden double doors. Tsunade looked haughty, and dragged Shino to the doors, since he seemed to have lost his memory of walking on the last trip. The mama-san bowed low, and opened the doors. Shino’s mouth dropped slightly as people in the room stood and began to clap as he walked into the room. He looked back at the Hokage, who just smiled and pushed him forward towards the main table where his family and close friends sat. He saw his mother and father, dressed nicely, his father in the robes of the Aburame leader, his mother dressed in a lavender and periwinkle kimono that made her look ten years younger than she actually was. He saw Kiba, Shikamaru, Chouji, Neji, Lee and Naruto, but…where were the girls? Shino frowned for a second, but was distracted by the loud and boisterous blond himself, Naruto.

“Hey, hey! Shino-kun! Happy birthday, man!” Shino smiled slightly. Naruto made everyone change their lives just a little…it was his gift to the world, he supposed.

“Hello, Naruto-san, everyone. Mother, father, you did not have to do this for me…” Shino thought he expressed to his parents that he did not want to draw attention to himself…he didn’t think himself to be very important and nor did he want to in the social circles. His mother smiled, his father laughing.

“Son, you deserve a party like this at coming of age…and besides that, we weren’t the ones who planned this…” Shino looked confused, wracking his brain for anyone who could have done this…then the pieces of the puzzle began to click into place…the organizational skills it must have taken to plan a party of this caliber…the resources available…the time….only someone close to the Hokage herself could have planned something on such short notice. His eyes narrowed, a small smile curling on the corners of his mouth. She’d left that morning to ‘take care of some business’, only to come back and help him get dressed for his own party. Knowing he wouldn’t come unless it had something to do with a mission or the Hokage’s wishes, she asked Tsunade-sama to step in. She was a sneaky, clever little vixen, she was.

“Where is she?” he asked suddenly. His mother was about to answer when he was interrupted by Kiba on a microphone.

“In honor of Shino’s sixteenth birthday, the girls of the Konoha Eleven have decided to perform a dance, showing their appreciation for one of Konoha’s future leaders!” All eyes turned to the Japanese style kabuki stage, and watched as violins, western flutes and shamisen were raised, drums at the ready and koto ready to be plucked. There were even a few musicians with biwa and shinobue poised and ready to play as the curtains rose. All of them were dressed as people were in the Heian era. There was a large ramp about four and a half feet wide and twenty-five feet long that led to the middle of the room from the stage, where there was a good sized circular dance floor. Jasmine incense had been lit, and wafted throughout the air, creating a sensual atmosphere. Shino was pulled into his seat as his eyes remained glued to the stage.



The shoji doors slid apart to reveal four maiko sitting with their backs to the crowd, their obi spread out behind them, ready to rise when the music started. Shino spotted Sakura immediately from the shock of pink hair piled atop her head, her long, painted slender neck there for his viewing. He felt himself getting roused just by seeing her in such clothing, knowing the deadly beauty beneath it all. The music started quietly, each of them standing one by one instead of simultaneously, on the beat.


Sora, tooi sora,
tsubuyaita koe
Anata no yume wa ima,
Hoshi no sharin wo mawasu


A fan appeared in each of their right hands, swinging up and back behind them as they twisted about step in sync, their fans in their left hands raising outward. Moving both fans to their right in a wispy, blowing wind-like motion, they then moved them sharply to the left slowly. They raised the right fan above their head, following up with the left in the same fashion as if welcoming the sun, only to cross both fans over their chests to bring the left fan outward and the right upward again.


Watashi itsumo doko ni mo inai
Sou kanjite'ta
Sono hitomi shiru made wa


The fans were brought loosely to their sides as they smiled and began to dance in a circle making their own movements. They began to move out of the circle, Ten-ten the first in line, Hinata in second, Sakura in third, and Ino last as they made their way slowly down the long ramp, passing appreciative guests of the male variety. Their hips swung slowly, sensually, and Shino’s eyes, along with the rest of the male populous, followed obediently to the swing in time of the beat.

Shino could not keep his eyes off of Sakura, or her kimono, knowing full well she chose it with him in mind. Over her blood red silk brocade yukata, she wore a vermillion red kimono that faded to a darker, truer, crimson red color. The kimono’s bottom half was awash with bright exotic flowers of every kind, beautiful butterflies of every sort, from the common monarch to the ever beautiful Ulysses flying over and perched along the flowers delicately. A field of grass fading in the background everything seemingly covered in fresh morning dew covered the entire bottom of the kimono beautifully. She wore a pitch black brocade obi that had mystical mists flowing over it, swans flying throughout them, sparkling flower petals falling from a sakura tree perched at the bottom, it’s branches hanging low over a serene river that housed small white ducks and green lily pads with water lilies in blue and purple along the sides of the river.


Mune no katasumi
kaketa tsuki na hitotsu aru dake
Demo donna ni hosoi michi mo
terasu you ni hikaru


Then all of a sudden, a small genjutsu activated, and the hall turned into the different seasons…the first season that showed itself was summer, where Ino stepped forward of the four, and began a slow circling dance, the fans turning every which way, her beautiful blue kimono swaying in the summer breeze, her hips and the grass beneath their feet in rhythm with the song. As she took her last turn, the seasons began to change, the trees turning different colors, the leaves falling gently to the ground. Ten-ten took over, beginning a dance of swooping and spinning fans, turning only every so often to catch a flying fan out of the air, the falling leaves dancing around her lithe and sensuous figure, her bright green kimono a welcome change to the red gold and orange colors around her.


Sotto hoshi-tachi ga
Yubisashite iru
Anata no yuku saki wa
Suishou no mori ni naru


Ten-ten finished up her steps, and all the leaves fell, and everything withered away, except for one beautiful dark maiko who danced with intricate footsteps, swishing the fans this way and that, her eyes the same color of that cold, powdery glittering snow sparkling as tendrils of her hair blew, and her hair charms jingled in the force of the harsh winter winds. Her dark kimono was a stark contrast to the dead trees and frozen wonders around her.


Watashi itsuka koto te no hira de
Anata no koto
Subete kara mamoritai


Taking her final steps, Hinata swished her fans to the left and right, as if sweeping the snow away, and then Sakura stepped in, all the snow melting into one large lake in which Sakura stood in the middle. Sakura’s hands summoned spring to will its way in, twisting and turning in forceful circles, her eyes closed, dancing on top of the water as the trees’ leaves grew. All the trees in the room turned into beautiful pink blossoms that fell as waves crashed from every swirl and turn she made. Her fans twisting and twirling, the sleeves of her furisode twirled and whirled, making the butterflies on the sleeves seem to come alive. Shino could not keep his eyes off of her, as hers were trained on him whenever she faced him. The sleeves of her kimono fluttered in the gentle spring breeze, Sakura leaning back to execute a flawless flip, snapping her fans open and shut, her hair ornaments jingling in time with the song. Her reddened lips were parted slightly, her green eyes sparkling with the hope of the new, fresh life that appeared before her.


Atatakai yoru
Mada chiisa na tsuki no sumu ie
Demo anata ga nemuru toki wa
Yasashi akari tomosu no


Sakura slowed her last movements, the other three facing in the other directions, each facing their own season. The room was divided into the four seasons, the seasons following behind them as they danced in a circle.


Mune no katasumi
Kaketa tsuki na hitotsu aru dake
Demo donna ni hosoi michi mo
Terasu you ni hikaru


As they stopped, Sakura was facing the crowd once more, Hinata, Ten-ten and Ino receding back up the stage, their season counterparts surrounding them, everything fading back to spring and the blossoms falling as the other girls disappeared within the minor genjutsu, Sakura remaining behind, she knelt, still standing on the tops of the water as the song faded. The guests were all amazed and clapped appreciatively, but knew something else was in store if one of the maiko stayed behind. They were right. As the applause died out completely, Sakura deftly untied her obi, and threw off her kimono to reveal a shortened red fighting furisode, a small black obi tied neatly along her back. As the kimono disappeared in the distance, fading completely, she flipped forward, and caught two katana that were coming out of nowhere from the opposite sides of the room, the loud sound of ringing metal that ninjas come to adore reverberating throughout the entire room. The second song began, the musicians from before already poised and playing softly.

As the drums and percussion began, the biwa and the koto began to keep the background as the flute began its lilting melody, washing over everyone in the room. All eyes were transfixed on Sakura, who began her daily katas, only adding her own twist, and using her swords as if she were fighting the air around her. The genjutsu made her appear as light as the air around her, and her long pink lashes were relaxed as she did her dance easily. The violins sounded in, mixing with the sweet sound of the shinobue, creating a beautiful haunting song.

Shino could not bring himself to blink, nor could he take his eyes off of her. His glasses, long forgotten and sitting in front of him on the table, his mercury colored eyes took in her entire figure with awe and respect. Shibi looked at his son, and knew it was love that he held for that kunouichi. He remembered giving Aibiko the same looks when they were younger, after she’d been there for him when Suika died. She protested at first, saying that he belonged to Suika, and no one else, but eventually she couldn’t resist, and they were wed a few years later. Aibiko smiled at her son, who was mirroring the look Shibi gave her so many years ago. They continued to watch the performance.

Sakura did twists, and back flips, her swords arcing in beautiful directions, her furisode flying, the bells on her obi-jime sparkling and tinkling in rhythm with the song. The red and gold braided tassels on the hilt of her swords danced and dived playfully, the swords singing as she sliced them through empty air. The spring breeze played with her maiko-made hair, the trinkets making wonderful melody against the bells’ harmony. As Sakura slowed her movements on the final strains of the song, she threw the swords at forty-five degree angles, hitting two small targets that made a black scroll come down, proclaiming ‘Happy 16th Birthday, Shino!’ in silver letters.

Sakura, still in the stance she was from throwing her swords, stood gracefully, smiling at Shino before whispering “Kai!” dispelling the jutsu. She was dressed as a maiko like before. She completed a body flicker jutsu, disappearing in a showering swirl of crimson tipped pink cherry blossoms. Shino’s eyes widened, as those cherry blossoms brought back a faint memory of the person he’d nearly caught peeping at him from behind the trees. He remembered the petals were the same. Before he could think about it more clearly, loud thundering applause sounded out for Sakura’s performance, many of the shinobi impressed with her skills.

Shino noticed there was more than just he looking at her adoringly, including many of the young chuunin in the crowd that was only a couple of years older than they were. His eyes narrowed as he placed his glasses back on his face, ignoring the shocked looks of Kiba, Naruto and Lee at seeing his face, and how similar it was to Neji’s. Neji showed his disquiet by allowing his eyes to linger a little bit longer on the Aburame than needed. It was common knowledge that the Hyuuga and Aburame clans did not like each other one bit, save for Hinata and Shino’s friendship. To see similarities was a little disturbing. Naruto, per usual, was the first to speak up about the matter.

“Shino…buddy, why do you and Neji….?” Even Naruto wasn’t able to finish the sentence that everyone at the table save for Shino and his parents wanted to know. Shino looked at his friends and his lips were set in a grim line.

“The Aburame clan and the Hyuuga clan split hundreds of years ago, so there is a distant relation. The Hyuuga clan is only roughly fifty years older than ours, though our pact with the kikai was made long before the byakugan became a bloodline trait. Eventually, the clan elders found out what had happened. The Hyuuga clan would not allow its members to condone to such a pact, and because of the disagreement, Shitoshi Hyuuga from the branch of the clan changed his last name to Aburame, and vowed never to use the byakugan ever again. Any of the rest of the members who agreed to the pact also left with him. Hundreds of years of not using the bloodline withered it away, and the bugs took on the main part of our fighting.” Shibi spoke up for his son, who didn’t look to be too happy to be asked such a question. He held nothing against Neji, but the rest of his family did not enjoy his presence around the heiress. Shibi continued his story.

“Our eyes are very similar still, something that we couldn’t help, I guess. We also share some of the same facial and body structure, being tall and willowy. Though, the children in the Aburame family have been growing taller and taller lately…Shino here is only a few inches shorter than me, by next year, he’ll have caught up.” Shibi smiled a small smile, Aibiko’s glasses flashing in agreement.

“I hope you don’t mind me asking Aburame-sama,” Lee chimed in, “But I always wondered why the Aburame clan wears the glasses that they do…if your eyes are in fine working order, then why wear them?” Naruto nodded, his foxy squint suddenly present. Aibiko smiled, and held her hand over Shibi’s to tell him that she would explain.

“I think I would be best to answer your question Lee, having seen both sides of the equation, marrying into the family and all.” She smiled, and took off her glasses, her blue eyes smiling sweetly at the young men before her.

“You see, there are a plethora of reasons we wear the glasses. The main reason is that there are certain advantages to being a part of a bug wielding clan, especially the kikai. The bugs allow us to see better in the dark, and because our eyes are so sensitive to light, we wear the glasses during daylight hours. Sometimes we forget to take them off in the evening hours, some of us prefer those outside of the clan not to view their faces often, like Shino here. His eyes are fine whether in light or dark, they adjust so well…it might be because I am outside of the clan…the females usually determine the child’s sensitivity to light in the early stages…since I wasn’t always this susceptible to light, I guess Shino dear here inherited it.” Aibiko smiled fondly for a second, before turning a little more serious.

“Because of our mysterious and sometimes private natures, not many know much about us, and we intend to keep it that way. Every single member as of right now holds ANBU status save for young children and Shino and I. Because of his training to become the leader, he was not permitted to test for his ANBU ranks yet. After his training, if he succeeds, he will be given one more year of tactic and special techniques training, and also social circle training, much to his dismay.” Aibiko smiles as her son’s frown became a little more prominent. She looked incredulous. She placed a hand on Shino’s arm, and he looked at her fondly. She shook her head.

“Shino, try to have a little more fun…Sakura-chan did all this for you. We did try to warn her of your dislike for large parties, but she had this maniacal smile upon her face, and I didn’t think it would be wise to incite her anger....” Shibi nearly chuckled at the confused look on his son’s face. Shino’s memory was jumpstarted again at the mention of her name. He had to ask her about those sakura petals…he didn’t remember seeing that variety around Konoha, and the culprit behind the peepshow had the same body flicker effect.

“So, I hear people talking about me?” Sakura and the rest of the girls walked up, still dressed as maiko, Sakura in the center of them. Shino became speechless again at being in such close proximity of Sakura in such a beautiful state. Ino and Ten-ten giggled at a secret joke, and Hinata smiled at Naruto, who had a cute blush on his face. Hinata sat in between Neji and Naruto, each boy giving the other wary looks, Ten-ten sat between Naruto and Lee, and began happily chatting with Lee and Kiba, who sat next to Lee. Ino sat between Kiba and Shikamaru, happily hanging off the lethargic chuunin. Sakura looked and took the last seat between Shibi and Shino, and smiled sheepishly. She found that she could not look at Shino, and for some reason, it made him…sad? Frustrated? It was a jumble of emotions. Aibiko smacked Shino’s arm, and motioned for him to begin talking to her, trying to end an obviously awkward moment.

“Thank you, Sakura-chan. You really didn’t have to do this for me…” he found that he couldn’t look at her either. Then she did something surprising.

She slapped him.

Not really hard enough to hurt him, but enough to leave an angry red mark on his cheek that stung, and for his glasses to come tumbling off. She looked mad enough to hiss and spit nails, but just as close to crying her eyes out as well. Shino was very surprised, as well as everyone else at the table, except Aibiko looked a little more…aware, and understanding of what was really going on.

“Aburame Shino, stop pushing people away from you! You have friends that love you very much, family that loves you very much, sitting here celebrating a wonderful turning point and milestone in your life!” She stood suddenly and was in a slight defensive position, causing Shino to back away from the pissed kunouichi.

“I worked SO hard to give you something you deserve…something like this HAD to be done, because you are one of this villages best, and I’ll be damned if I sit here and just LET you say that to me…Shino….I….I……” Tears did fall this time, and Ten-ten was happy she used the waterproof makeup as tears coursed down the spitfire’s cheeks. She burst out crying even harder, her face scrunched up in complete anguish, and Shino went to console her, but she slapped his hands away.

“I…I LOVE you, Shino! How dare you make me become the crybaby I vowed never to be again? How dare you?!” Sakura turned gracefully, her wooden sandals jingling as she made her escape. Shino received a plethora of looks, a blank and vaguely smug look from Neji, angry looks from every female at the table, Naruto winced and shook his head, Kiba joining in. Lee stood, dragging Shino to his feet.

“Come, my bug wielding companion! Let not this incident ruin the springtime of your youth! Regain that youth by speaking to Sakura-chan right away…you are what she needs most right now!” Shino was pushed towards the exit, and he picked up speed and exited the golden double doors.

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Sakura sat out in the large gardens behind the establishment, the cool, dark evening shadowing her face slightly, the full, bright moon covering everything in a crisp, silver glow. Her crying slowed to occasional sobs, and a hiccup here and there every once in a while. She was seated on a bench, half curled into herself, and shivering.

“I’m sorry, Sakura.” Her form curled even more into a ball. She thought that if she did this he would see…that he would know how much she cared…but to refuse this event so casually…

“Go away, Shino.” She said simply, a waver still in her voice, and it hurt him to hear her say that. He knew they would fall out sometime, but over something like this…it was completely unforeseen. He stepped closer to her.

“Sakura—“ She shot out of her seat, facing the other direction.

“I said GO AWAY! You didn’t want this party, I know. Don’t feel guilty for the way I reacted…I should’ve known you would do this, your mother did warn me…”

“I will NOT go away!” it was Shino’s turn to yell. For Sakura it was strange to hear and see someone so normally calm, cool and collected lose it so easily. She turned, and he stood there, his angry silver eyes swirling in rage.

“Sakura, I will NOT just go away….you said you loved me. Is this how you want to treat me then, if you do?” he crossed his arms, and she shook her head in disbelief.

“Don't you dare turn this around on me....how can you not see it? How can you, of all people be so blind? I thought.....I thought maybe I was a bit too obvious, that maybe you would see all of the signs! Whenever I’m around you, my heart beats just a little faster, I get so much happier! I’ve never cooked a seven course meal before I met you! I never would have let you sleep so close to me if I didn’t love you! My cheeks would’ve never turned red when I remembered your family’s reaction to chakra and what effect I had on you! I knew it was too fast to begin with, but every time I look into your eyes, I feel so safe, so content, that I never want to be far from you!” Sakura’s last words came out in a whisper so light she wondered if he had heard it at all. His eyes were slightly shocked, and awash with realization. Then they turned anguished. His voice was almost pleading.

“Sakura, you have no idea how I felt about you before you were even aware of our friendship! Sakura, I’ve always thought you to be ravishingly beautiful, and I always wanted you for my own, I’ve wanted you so badly that on some nights, that even cold showers don’t work, and I have to stroke myself off to visions of you telling me you love me, beneath me, as I made love to you! I’ve pined over you for years, watching and waiting, but never believing I was good enough for you as you cried over the Uchiha. I knew I could treat you like the princess you are, and was so very sad! And then, I remembered our friendship. I truly believed I would have a chance with you, but our friendship, as much as I cherished it, it began to mock me, holding what I wanted most just out of my grasp. I wanted you, Sakura. Want. I’ve never wanted to make anything or anyone mine so bad before.” Every sentence he spoke he moved closer and closer, and then he stopped and stood before her, his anger dissipated at his open confession.


“Sakura, I love you, with as much humility and honor that I can muster. But you made it that much harder for me to think myself worthy.” Sakura looked off to the side, not wanting to look at his face.

“I’d always considered every male within my age group that was a shinobi. I loved the mystery, that allure you possess above all of the other guys. You were always polite, and I was never disgusted, only fascinated with your insects. You never showed any kind of emotion though, I had no idea you even…wanted me in such a way.” A small blush covered her angry face. “As much as I hate to say it as a kunouichi, I am a highly emotional person, and you were not giving off any signals whatsoever. I thought it would be so clear in my eyes at least, that I loved you…I was never able to completely shield my emotions through my eyes...” She looked at him finally, and was shocked to see the remorse in his gaze. His voice sounded resigned, and sad.

“Sakura, this is why I say that I’m sorry. I guess we could’ve been together longer, but we haven’t had enough time to come to terms. I…I recognize these feelings you have for me, Sakura. But I am afraid that time is against us right now. I am not asking you to love me right now…that would be too much.” Shino pulled her into his warm embrace, and buried his face into the part of her hair that did not contain combs and trinkets. He inhaled deeply, smelling the juniper and jasmine in her clothing, her fresh natural scent country apples, with undertones of cucumber and melons…the scent of summertime.

“But please......consider me…I will be gone for an entire year, and I don’t want you to tie yourself down to me. That would be completely unfair for me to ask you to wait for me.” Shino whispered the words into her hair softly, the deep rumbles of his voice reverberating into her own body.

“But would it really?” she asked quietly. She held him tighter, as if he was already supposed to have left. She nuzzled her face into his clothes, smelling of cinnamon spice, slight undertones of the sea and some spicy, distinctly masculine scent she couldn’t place, but made her insides flutter all the same.

“I foolishly waited so long for someone that didn’t love me, and it took me until a year ago to figure it out. To know that you desire me in such a way that would make any lesser girl stutter and act demure in such a show of emotion makes me want to wait, because this time I know for sure…I’m not just wading into unknown waters. I am prepared.” She moved in his warm embrace to look up at him with a beautiful tear-stained face and sincere, resolute jade colored eyes. He realized that she would not be moved. He also realized he had her alone, so he could ask her something he’d been dying to since her performance. He gave her one of his rare smiles, his eyes reflecting beautifully in the wane moonlight.

“Alright then, Sakura. Wait for me. I have one question, though. Was it you who spied on me at the lagoon the other day while I was taking a bath? I saw your body flicker effect, and it was exactly the same as the person who was watching me.” Sakura’s face grew red, and she buried her face in his shirt as he gave a low, seductive chuckle.

“Ah, so it was you. Nice acting skills afterwards, though I did find it odd that you were the first person I ran into. How much did you see, exactly?” he couldn’t see her face, but knew she would be as red as a tomato if she didn’t have her makeup on.

“I saw you from the hips up…but you have no idea what that alone did to me…I was so enthralled, I wanted to see all of you…” Sakura didn’t know why she was being so honest. She smirked wryly. “…that’s why I was almost caught. If women knew what you looked like without clothing…it would be all over for you. There would be no safe place to sleep from the fangirls.” Shino laughed at Sakura’s half-true joke. As much as he wanted to stay out here with her and just chat and hug all day, he knew he had to go back in and go through with the party.

“Sakura, I must admit, I am not used to large groups of people. For a while, I was an only child, and then I was sent to Grass to train. But, I will try to come out more often…I didn’t mean to insult you by casually refusing the party.” Sakura stopped him, and hugged him again, his arms wrapping around her smaller frame once again warmly. She closed her eyes and sighed.

“Just a little bit longer, please? I hate it that you are going to leave me for an entire year. I need to remember you like this….” Shino chuckled darkly, and pulled back to look at her face, his hand on her painted cheek.

“There is a much better way to remember me, Sakura-chan…” his last words were whispered. Her heart beat faster and faster as he pressed her into his body, his lips meeting hers softly in a chaste kiss. As soon as her eyes closed, the kiss turned much darker as his tongue slipped between her teeth to caress the roof of her mouth, causing Sakura to moan deeply. His hand slid down her back and grabbed her ass, purposely pressing himself into her. Sakura groaned deeply in surprise when she felt the large lump press hotly against her own heat, and she broke the kiss to lean her head back and moan, exposing her neck openly to Shino in a sign of subconscious submission. Shino groaned himself, ready to kiss and nip at the long, pale column of her neck.

“Feel what you do to me whenever I come around you, Sakura-chan…” he rumbled deeply against the skin of her neck, kissing softly. Sakura didn’t know what to do; she was melting quite easily, and didn’t think she wanted to stop. Her breath was shortened to gasps, as he continued to press against her, letting her know exactly how much of an effect her touch and mere presence had on him.

“Shino….” Her voice was rough with pleasure, her hands gripping tightly onto the front of his jacket. Her eyes were lidded in pleasure, as Shino began to kiss down to her collarbone, nipping the skin lightly.

“Yes, Sakura-chan?” He looked up from kissing her to see her flustered and breathless…just the way he liked her. She backed out his embrace a little, quite sure she would never forget the way he grabbed her ass and literally grind her against something so hard, so hot….Sakura gulped…and *large*. She was more than a little shaken. But she smiled appreciatively.

“I’d always pegged you to be such a gentleman, Shino-kun.” Shino laughed quietly, shaking his head.

“Dear, sweet, Sakura-chan…” he took her chin into his fingers again, his voice pure seduction. “…I am a gentleman. But, only where it really matters.” His gaze of pure love was tainted by a small trace of lust. Her breath caught in her throat again as he laughed and gently kissed her lips again. She eventually laughed along with him, and pulled on his hand.

“Let’s go, Shino-kun. I think we might still be able to catch the rest of the dinner show, if we hurry. Let’s go.” Anyone who would be around to see them could clearly see two people that truly loved each other, although coming from different backgrounds. Some of the guests of The Golden Tanto shook their heads as they ran back into the establishment, and through the golden doors, just in time to see the middle of the dinner show. Tsunade, apparently, already caught on to the stores of sake, and was happily drinking five decanters. The party was in full swing, and the golden doors remained shut for the rest of the night, jovial sounds making their way through the door, laughter heard everywhere.

______________________________________________________________________________


A dark figure sitting on a throne sighed lowly. The hall he was in was dimly lit, so no one could see his face clearly. His lithe form was dressed in traditional Chinese clothing, the fabrics fit for a prince. His long, black hair hung over one shoulder luxuriously, his wire rimmed square glasses set low on his nose, his lips twisted into a feral grin. A ninja of chuunin rank rushed in from his left to deliver a message.

“Sir, I have reports of the girl obtaining a love interest….” The smile on the young man’s face turned into an angry sneer.

“It won’t matter. He’ll be leaving for a year…plenty of time for me to watch her and make my move. I want her to be at her strongest, and according to my spy, she still has extensive training with her beloved shishou to get out of the way.” The chuunin trembled as he let out a low, nearly maniacal laugh that sent shivers down his ‘guards’ spines. He rested his face on his crossed fingers, his forest green almond shaped eyes narrowed in psychotic thought. He grinned again, a slightly elongated canine glistening in the low light.

“And then, when she becomes strong enough, I’ll steal her out from up under that stupid Aburame’s grasp, and make her mine in every way possible…” a lusty grin came forward on his handsome face as he stared at a large scroll picture across the way with a fifteen year old Sakura, dressed in her medic uniform on the field, her face angry and avenging, and her hair flying as she was ready to deliver a punch to some enemy nin. There were several other scrolls of Sakura in unknowing positions, like sitting on a bench eating ice cream, or talking to one of her friends happily on the way to the Hokage’s office. The young man grinned again, teeth flashing, his eyes glowing ice blue this time.

“Oh, I just cannot wait.”


The darkness enveloped him again, his laugh echoing throughout the long, dark corridor.

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Oh, boy, what is this? Who is this mysterious character, and why does he want Sakura so badly? Also, what will become of the separation between Shino and Sakura? Will their bond strengthen or weaken because of this distance? Exactly why was Neji so smug about Sakura and Shino’s falling out? You might find out next chapter! I know I promised this one sometime later on this month, but I had some extra time on my hands, and I was bored, so depending on whether or not I have enough time the beginning of this next semester will determine whether or not I give you the ninth chapter sometime the end of this month. Thanks again for all the reviews. I love each and every single comment that praises and helps…I appreciate them, you know!