Hey all :) I've made this chapter a little longer than usual to make up for the amount of time it took me to upload.

Pic of the most adorable Wolves ever  --->

Ashley's POV

I glare at Yamato's Wood Style clone as I slide backwards across the dirt, having narrowly avoided getting run through by one of his Wood Style: Falling Earth Spears. Those suckers are hard to avoid, considering they just come tearing up out of the ground.

"Use the Jutsu we've been practising Ashley!" the real Yamato calls, sitting a top a boulder somewhere off to my far left. "You have to get used to using it in battle!"

"And make sure you're quicker than last time" Yamato's clone taunts, leaping towards me with a kunai as I frown and slap my hands together. "Or I'll beat you again!"

"Wood Style: Silent Strangle Jutsu!" I shout, performing the necessary hand signs and throwing my right arm out to the side. I pull a face as I feel my arm begin to tingle, the cells in my skin transforming and morphing my flesh and bones into thick, chakra enhanced bark.

Captain Yamato has been working me really hard this last week, wanting to get me to the point where I can perform this Jutsu quickly and apply it in battle. While he can be a hard task master at times, he's been incredibly patient and helpful as well. I was so hesitant to learn the Silent Strangle Jutsu, finding it very strange to change part of my body into a tree, but Captain Yamato was persistent. He helped me through my reluctance and now, I'm getting pretty quick with this Jutsu, if I do say so myself.

Flashing my teeth at Captain Yamato's clone in a smirk, I throw my right arm forwards and concentrate on adjusting my chakra flow, causing my now wooden arm to rapidly elongate and separate into multiple branches.

"Oof!" the clone exhales sharply, as he is slammed in the stomach by my wooden arm, the branches curling around his body and pushing him up into the air. The clone's legs dangle in the air as I use the branches to pin his arms to his side, a thin branch also curling around his neck.

I feel my right arm shake a little as I squint up at my captured target, panting slightly. This has been a more rigorous training session than usual, and I'm actually feeling a little worn out. It's been a long time since I've had to undergo daily training, and even longer since I've had someone teaching me. While Kakashi is my Sensei and he's taught me a lot, we've never really done a lot of one on one sparring or anything, like what Captain Yamato and I have been doing. My body isn't used to the constant pressure.

"Good job Ashley" Captain Yamato compliments, sliding down from the boulder and nodding his head. "You've really improved. I'm quite impressed."

"Thanks Captain" I breathe, gently lowering his clone to the ground and releasing him, before retracting my wooden arm back to me. I can't help pulling another face as the bark of my arm forms back into flesh, still not used to the weird, tingling sensation.

"I'm surprised by how quickly you've picked up on the Jutsu" Captain Yamato comments, tilting his head as I bend over and rest my hands on my knees, breathing a little heavier than usual. "I didn't think you'd do so well to be honest."

I let out a short laugh, lifting my head to glance up at the sheepish looking ANBU.

"Well, to be fair" I begin, raising an arm to rub the back of my head, "I did already know how to combine Water and Earth Nature chakra, so that cut out a whole section of training. And besides, you're a good teacher, so it was inevitable I guess.....That, and I pick up on Jutsu pretty quickly."

Captain Yamato gives me a slight smile, no doubt picking up on the compliment I'd given him. He's probably realised that I don't just hand those out, although I can't imagine praise from someone like me would really mean much to a great Ninja like Captain Yamato.

"Kakashi has mentioned that you've created quite a few of your own Jutsu" the tall brunette mentions, to which I nod and straighten up.

"Yeah" I confirm, trying not to sound boastful, "I've come up with a couple of original Jutsu in the last couple of years......Although Lady Tsunade labelled one of them as Forbidden and she told me I'm not allowed to use it....."

Captain Yamato's eyes widen slightly, as he raises an eyebrow at me.

"What kind of Jutsu is it?" he questions.

"I call it Lightning Style: Thousand Volt Disperse" I sigh, wiping an arm across my slightly sweaty forehead. "It's both an offensive and an evasive technique that I created awhile back. By focusing a huge amount of Lightning Nature chakra into my hands and suddenly releasing it in one blast, I can shock any surrounding opponents with bolts of lightning, while the pressure of the concentrated chakra in my hands with accelerate the rest of my chakra and allow me to teleport away."

"It sounds alright to me" Captain Yamato comments offhandedly, shrugging a shoulder. "Why is it Forbidden?"

"Well....." I trail off, my shoulders drooping a little. "The severe acceleration of my chakra is so sudden and powerful that it can tear my muscles and seriously mess up my chakra network. The actual Jutsu also uses up pretty much all of my chakra, and as a Jinchuuriki, that can be dangerous. After using the Jutsu, I'm pretty tired and in so much pain, it's difficult to move.......And it also badly burns my hands......."

".....Sounds like your Jutsu needs some work" Captain Yamato informs me, sweat dropping at my explanation. "The aftermath of your Jutsu doesn't seem worth using it, in my opinion."

"That Jutsu saved my life" I reply flatly. "It got me out of a fight with Kisame Hoshigaki about two years ago."

"You've fought Kisame Hoshigaki?" the Captain asks me incredulously, eyes widening. "How did you survive against the likes of him?"

"I just told you how I survived" I answer smartly, smirking a little. "And as for fought him, well.....It was more like, I defended myself and tried to outrun him for a few minutes. I'm not sure I could fight someone like him for long and live."

"You've stood up to him before though Ashley" a voice suddenly speaks up, causing both Captain Yamato and I to turn around. "Back before you left for the Land of Ambience."

"Kakashi Sensei!" I greet the approaching silver haired man brightly, happy to see my Sensei. I haven't so much as seen him since I began my training with Captain Yamato. ".....Wait, how did you know that?"

"Master Jiraiya told me back when it happened" Kakashi Sensei replies with a wink. Or was he just blinking? I'm actually not sure....

"Kakashi" Captain Yamato addresses, placing one hand on his hip. "What brings you out here?"

"Well, I came to speak with Ashley" the silver haired man drawls, hands in his pockets, "But when I saw that you were in the middle of training, I decided to sit back and watch. I've gotta say Ashley, I never thought I'd see the day when you'd use Wood Style Jutsu so naturally."

"Captain Yamato has been training me really hard" I explain, to which said man gives me a closed eye smile. "I wasn't keen on this training at first, but the Captain has been really helpful and supportive, so now I'm enjoying it! You watch Captain, I'll be better than even you one day!"

"It helps that she's got such a competitive spirit" Captain Yamato laughs, to which Kakashi nods. "It spurs her on, even if she's not happy about something."

"It's the Uchiha in her" Kakashi murmurs, before also giving me a closed eye smile. "Nonetheless, I'm impressed Ashley. I'm glad you decided to ask Tenzo for help. You've overcome one of your fears, and I'm proud of you for that."

I blink at Kakashi Sensei, ignoring Captain Yamato as he sweat drops and gives my Sensei a strange look.

"Thank you Sensei!" I cry, my eyes suddenly sparkling. "That means a lot, coming from you."

Like myself, Kakashi Sensei doesn't hand out compliments too often, and any time he gives me praise or tells me he's proud of me, it practically makes my heart soar. It unintentionally happened, but nothing makes me prouder now than when my Sensei is proud of me.

My smiles suddenly falters however, a question mark appearing above my head as my eyes flick over to a deadpanning Captain Yamato, his dark eyes focused on Kakashi Sensei.

"Wait......" I begin slowly, ".....Tenzo? Are you talking about Captain Yamato?"

"Oh.....Yes, I was talking about him" Kakashi Sensei replies, now sweat dropping as well. "My mistake...."

"You're supposed to call me Yamato now Kakashi" the Captain sighs, massaging his forehead. "I haven't been Tenzo for a long while...."

"Wait!" I bark, throwing out a hand and giving Captain Yamato an incredulous look. "So Yamato is just a codename for you?!"

".........Uhh......."

"I'm so stupid..." I mutter, slapping my hand to my face, as Captain Yamato chuckles uneasily and Kakashi Sensei shrugs.

"What difference does it make?" he asks rhetorically. "Yamato is an active member of the ANBU Black Ops. It would endanger his life if people knew his real name. I used to have a codename as well."

"Are you sure Kakashi isn't your codename?" I ask dryly, to which Kakashi Sensei gives me a look.

"As funny as you are" the silver haired man says sarcastically, "I actually didn't come here to joke around. I came to tell you that Lady Tsunade has requested your presence in her office."

"Uh oh" I sigh, wondering if I'm in trouble for something, before looking up to Captain Yamato. "I guess the training will have to wait for awhile."

"Actually" the brunette replies, "We'll have to postpone it for a few days, because I've got an important mission that I have to leave for later this afternoon. It'll give you a few days to relax and rest your muscles."

"Oh, okay" I say, waving over my shoulder as I turn around. "Well, good luck on your mission then Captain. Catch ya later Sensei!"

That said, I bound away, leaving the two male Ninja behind. They're probably going to talk about me behind my back now...

Knock knock.

"Yeah, come in!" I hear Lady Tsunade call, to which I take a deep breath and open the door, stepping into her office tentatively. Hopefully she's not about to scream at me, because I'm too tired to deal with that right now.

"Good afternoon Ashley" Lady Tsunade greets me pleasantly, leaning back in her chair and tapping her fingers on the edge of her desk. "How are you?"

"Uhhh, hello Lady Tsunade" I reply carefully, narrowing my eyes in confusion. Surely she didn't invite me here just to exchange pleasantries. "I'm....well..."

We stare at each other silently for a few moments, before Lady Tsunade's expression falls, an anime vein appearing on the side of her head.

"You're not in trouble you know" she informs me hotly, clearly annoyed by the puzzled look on my face. "I don't just invite you here to yell at you for things!"

"Oh" I say stupidly, not helping the Hokage's sudden mood change any. "Okay, well, that's great. What's up then?"

Lady Tsunade studies me for a moment, seemingly calming down as her caramel eyes take in my appearance.

"Judging by how dirty you are and the blood on your cheek" she comments, causing me to reach up and swipe the back of my hand down my cheek, "You've been training with Yamato again?"

"Yeah I have" I confirm, glancing down at myself. I hadn't realised I was so dirty. "We've been training everyday for the last eight days......Sakura wasn't happy about it when I told her at my check up four days ago, but I feel just fine! Tired, but fine nonetheless!"

"You really need to start listening to medical advice" Lady Tsunade sighs, giving me an unimpressed look. "You're going to hurt yourself one day, and while I believe that you're very skilled in Medical Ninjutsu, Sakura is a young medical expert and she really knows what she's talking about."

"I know what my body can handle better than anyone Lady Tsunade" I inform her seriously, to which she shrugs. "Not to seem rude or anything, but what exactly did you call me in for? I'm sure it wasn't just to see how my training is going."

"You're right" the blonde haired woman agrees, nodding. "I have some interesting news for you.....But first I'd like to know, are you planning on using your Sharingan?"

My eyes widen in surprise at Lady Tsunade's question, not having expected her to bring my Sharingan up. I don't think we've ever talked about it before, so I wonder why she's mentioning it.

"What do you mean by planning on using it?" I question, tilting my head to the side. "Is there something specific you want me to use it for?"

"No" is the low reply. "I want to know if you're going to begin using your Sharingan more often."

My brows furrow as Lady Tsunade watches me closely, leaning forward in her chair and resting her elbows on the desk, caramel eyes hooded.

"Why do you want to kn-"

"Just answer the question Ashley" the Hokage interrupts, causing me to frown. I hate it when people talk over me.....

"Well I...." I begin, crossing my arms and furrowing my brows in thought. "I've certainly been thinking about starting to use it more often, ever since I started training with Captain Yamato. I used to hate that I could use Wood Style, but recently I've come to realise that I'm enjoying learning how to use it properly. It could come in really handy one day, so I thought that I could probably learn to feel differently about my Sharingan as well.....And Kiba mentioned the fact that it's like I'm trying to hide the Uchiha side of myself by not using it....Like I'm denying the blood I got from my Father.....So....Yeah, I'm considering the idea of using my Sharingan again, like I did as a kid. I don't really want to use any of the advanced forms of my Sharingan though....."

"Because you don't want to lose your vision?" Lady Tsunade questions, causing my head to snap up. I see the slight smirk on her face and shake my head.

"How...How did you...." I trail off, before a thought occurs to me and I deadpan. "Kakashi Sensei told you, didn't he?"

"Only because he came to me with a request" the blonde woman explains. "I wanted an explanation so I could fully understand the situation and the extent of what he was asking."

"What did he request?" I ask suspiciously, pulling a chair over to Lady Tsunade's desk and dropping down into it.

"Kakashi seems very eager for you to hone your skills with the Sharingan" the Hokage tells me seriously, "Though he was quite concerned about the fact that your vision deteriorates every time you use the Mangekyo Sharingan or the Amaterasu. He feels that if it can be guaranteed that you won't lose your vision permanently, you'll be more inclined to use it....And so, he asked if there is any way I could prevent your inevitable blindness."

My eyes widen at this and I find myself leaning forwards a little in my seat. Kakashi Sensei had really come to Lady Tsunade about this to help me out? He really does go above and beyond sometimes....

"And....And is there any way to prevent it?" I ask quietly, my heart beating a little faster than before. For some reason, I feel a little disappointed when Lady Tsunade shakes her head.

"No, I can't prevent it" she tells me bluntly, before her eyes flick up to me, glittering in a knowing way. "However, we do have a way to possibly cure the blindness."

"Cure it?" I repeat, my pulling down into a thoughtful frown. "I'm guessing that means that if I go blind, you can fix it?"

"That's correct" Lady Tsunade confirms, seemingly pleased that I'd picked up on her meaning. "I'll try to keep this explanation simple enough, but the Leaf Village has been experimenting with certain Bioengineering techniques in the last few years, and one of the experiments was growing healthy corneas and their cells by injecting damaged ones with bone marrow stem cells. This technique is the most effective of the ones we've experimented with, and is perfect for people suffering from inherited genetic degenerative conditions of the cornea, which is what I believe the after effects of the Sharingan are. It's the best option if an eye transplant isn't possible, or has already been performed and isn't working well."

I stare at Lady Tsunade incredulously as she releases a breath and folds her hands in front of my mouth, falling silent as she waits for my reaction.

".....Let me see if I've got this straight" I say flatly, talking slowly as my brain tries to comprehend what the Hokage had just told me. "What you're basically saying is, since the blindness is technically an inherited genetic degenerative condition, you believe that you can counter this by injecting bone marrow stem cells into my damaged corneas, and that will cure me?"

"Precisely" Lady Tsunade confirms, not sounding at all bothered by my disbelieving tone.

"But you're saying I'd actually have to go blind first!" I cry, throwing my arms in the air. "Why the hell would I willingly do that?! Will this even work? Have you ever tried it before?!"

"No, we've never tried it on a live subject before" Lady Tsunade admits, shrugging a shoulder. "But the operation has proven to be successful with about seventy five percent of the damaged corneas we've experimented on."

"So there's a twenty five percent chance that this won't work" I growl, feeling a little annoyed, "And that I'd be stuck being blind forever. Great."

"Actually" Lady Tsunade adds, pursing her lips a little, "I'm not even sure it would work on your eyes. I'm only taking an educated guess. Seeing as the Sharingan and its side effects are in your blood, I count it as an inherited genetic degenerative condition."

I stare at Lady Tsunade's calm face for a few moments, before heaving a heavy sigh and momentarily closing my eyes.

"That's one big risk to take Lady Tsunade" I say quietly. "If I don't use my more advanced Sharingan forms, I won't go blind. But if I do decide to use them, with the expectation that I'll be fine, and go blind, there's a huge chance that I'll never see again.....I need my sight. How can I be a Ninja if I don't have my sense of sight?"

"It is a big risk" Lady Tsunade agrees with a light sigh, "And it's completely up to you what you do. I just wanted to let you know that the option is there."

"Thank you Lady Tsunade" I say wearily, rising from my seat and opening my eyes. "But I'm not sure I'm willing to take that gamble. The stakes are too high, and even though I usually take stupid risks....Even I'm not game enough to gamble with losing my sight."

"I understand" is the gentle reply, as Lady Tsunade waves her hand. "Let me know if you change your mind. You're dismissed."

I drop down from one of the windows of the Hokage's Tower, bending my knees as I land easily on the ground and sending up a small puff of dust. I glance around the street for a moment, before heaving a sigh and hanging my head, walking aimlessly down the road as I stare at the dirt in thought.

Lady Tsunade's idea of being able to cure the blindness my Sharingan would induce had excited me at first, but knowing that I'll have to go blind beforehand is a little scary. And the icing on the cake had been the fact that there was a strong chance that Lady Tsunade's surgery wouldn't even work. How did she expect me to be able to make a decision like that?

'How did you do it Father?' I wonder, feeling a little sad for some reason. 'You used your Mangekyo all the time in the ANBU, yet I never heard you complain of eye problems...'

I smile wryly down at the ground, feeling a pang in my heart at the thought of my wonderful Father. He'd been such a generous, loving man, and he'd always done his best to be with my sister, my Mother and I. Words couldn't describe how much I'd loved him, and how much I'd always miss him. It's too bad I only got to spend six years with him.....Our training sessions in the Leaf Village had always been times of great contentment for me, despite the confusing things Father would sometimes say to me.

"Go on Ashley" the handsome, dark haired man encourages, smiling as he reopens his eyes, revealing his blazing red Sharingan eyes.

"B-But Daddy" the five year old me stutters, taking a step back, "I'm not very good yet. It won't be very big......"

"Don't worry about it sweetheart" my Father chuckles, his long ponytail flicking as he shakes his head back and forth. "I just want to show you what the Amaterasu looks like, and how powerful it is."

I give my Father a doubtful look, my lower lip slightly protruding forwards as the dark haired Uchiha motions for me to go ahead. He had taught me a Jutsu the last time I'd been brought here to the Leaf Village, but I wasn't particularly good at it yet. Not only did I have to practise controlling my chakra, but my tiny hands had such trouble trying to form hand signs properly!

"C'mon Ashley" my Father encourages, eyes sparkling. "It doesn't matter if it's not big yet, the mere fact that you can even create a little fireball is incredible for someone of your age."

"Was Itachi-kun able to make fireballs when he was five?" I question, tilting my head to look over at my beloved cousin, who is standing across from me with his arms folded over his chest. The young male merely stares at me through onyx eyes, a very faint smile playing at his lips as my Father snorts with amusement.

"Itachi was exceptional at the Uchiha's Fireball Jutsu" he informs me, before glancing over at his nephew and raising an eyebrow, his amusement disappearing as soon as Itachi looks back at him. "Though I don't like to admit it, Itachi really surprised me...."

"You flatter me Uncle" Itachi says softly, to which my Father rolls his eyes.

"Hardly what I'm trying to do."

"Itachi-kun!" I cry, slapping my hands together and giving my older cousin a pleading look, "Can you please show my how you do the Fireball Jutsu! Is that okay Daddy? Can you show me your Emi....Amas....Amatserapu if Itachi-kun does the Fireball Jutsu instead of me?!"

My Father's eyes widen, as an almost impossibly quiet chuckle escapes Itachi's lips, humour flashing in his dark eyes.

"It's Amaterasukiddo" my Father corrects, shrugging his shoulders, "And sure. If your cousin feels like we're worthy enough, I don't mind if he wants to help out."

"Of course Uncle" Itachi replies lowly, uncrossing his arms as he stares back at my Father calmly, despite the hard look on the man's face. "I'd be glad to, if it means helping out Ashley-chan......"

"Hm" is all my Father says, sounding unimpressed, before stepping back and glancing at me. "Make sure you pay attention Ashley."

"Yes Daddy!" I reply brightly, my eyes wide and focused as I eagerly await Itachi's Jutsu.

"Fire Style: Fireball Jutsu!" Itachi calls out, performing the necessary hand signs and placing a hand in front of his mouth. To my delight, a huge fireball is blown from Itachi's mouth, the intense flames roaring towards my Father and lighting up the area.

Without so much as flinching, my Father grins at the incoming fire and turns his head to send me a quick wink. I feel my eyes widen slightly and a soft gasp escapes my mouth, as I see the black tomoe in my Father's eyes spin rapidly, now looking more like some sort of ominous pinwheel design.

I cry out in surprise and fright however, when a large mass of black flames suddenly shoot from my Father's right eye. They fly through the air and collide heavily with the fireball, before the black flames completely engulf Itachi's Jutsu and cancel it out.

The black flames fall to the ground, having overpowered Itachi's fireball, burning and flickering as they sit on top of the grass.

My heart beating erratically, I stare at the strange black flames, waiting for them to disappear and wondering how they had managed to completely overpower Itachi's powerful fireball.

"Daddy...." I whisper, unable to look away from the still burning fire, "They're.....They're not going away......"

"Of course they aren't Ashley" my Father chuckles, running a hand through his bangs and giving me a lopsided smile. "The flames of the Amaterasu are eternal, and the only thing that can extinguish them, is the Amaterasu. See, watch......"

My Father focuses his attention back on the black flames and, as the strange pinwheels in his eyes begin spinning again, the flames disappear with a fwoosh sound, making me jump.

"Wow!" I suddenly cry, jumping up and down as I clap my hands, "That was so cool Daddy! And your fireball was awesome Itachi-kun! I wish mine was that good..."

"You just need practise little cousin" Itachi tells me softly, a slightly affectionate tone to his voice. "You can only improve......"

I nod eagerly, my eyes glittering as Itachi sends my Father a nod, before placing a hand in front of him, two fingers folded down and two pointing up.

"Please excuse me Uncle" the young Uchiha says apologetically. "I have......Business to attend to."

"Fine" my Father replies after a short pause, his eyes narrowing slightly. "But don't forget about that meeting we have to go to later tonight."

"How could I forget such a thing?...." Itachi mutters, sounding less than enthusiastic, before looking to me. "Good bye Ashley-chan. Train hard......"

"Buh bye Itachi-kun!" I bark, throwing an arm in the air and waving. "Thank you for helping me train today! I love you!"

I almost miss the quiet sigh that comes from my older cousin, before he murmurs something under his breath and disappears in a puff of smoke. My shoulders slump a little as the smoke wafts past me, before I turn to my Father, waiting to see what we're going to be doing next.

My Father however, is staring at the spot Itachi had been standing, his brows furrowed and a look of serious thought on his face.

"You're really strong, aren't you Daddy?" I ask, snapping my Father back to reality. "Your fire was even stronger than Itachi-kun's.....Which means you'd be waaay stronger than me......"

"You'll get stronger as you get older" Father smiles, walking over and placing a hand on top of my blonde head. "And if you keep training. Then you'll get to go on missions with other Ninja, you'll face powerful enemies and you'll get even stronger still!"

"I'd have to be brave to fight other Ninja" I sigh, rubbing my arm. "I have to learn to be a lot braver....Like you Daddy! You're the bravest Ninja ever!"

My Father laughs at this, clearly amused as I begin viciously punching the air, fighting off imaginary enemies. One day I'd be big and strong like my Father, I'd move to the Leaf Village and I'd join the ANBU Black Ops. Then I could always be with my Daddy!

"You train Itachi-kun too, don't you?" I suddenly ask my Father, to which he pauses. After a brief moment of silence, my Father flicks his bangs back from the sides of his face and nods, placing a hand on his hip.

"Yes, I did train him in the past" my Dad confirms, a strange gleam in his now onyx eyes. "But your Uncle Fugaku doesn't approve of me teaching his son, seeing as I'm apparently only used to training you....Never mind the fact that I'm an ANBU Captain or anything......"

"So, if I keep training with you...." I continue, ignoring the way Father had mumbled that last part to himself, "I could be as strong as Itachi-kun?"

"Sweetheart" Father says softly, crouching down beside me and resting on one knee, "You'll be stronger than Itachi. That Minami blood of yours is a powerful gift, and even the likes of Itachi won't be able to compete with it. And besides Ashley, true strength isn't in your blood or your muscles. True strength is when you're faced with overwhelming adversity and you find the will to keep going, to never lose hope. In our weakest moments, we can also discover our greatest strengths."

"........." I tilt my head, giving my Father a thoroughly perplexed look. "I don't understand what you mean Daddy. What are you saying?"

"You'll understand one day kiddo" my Father chuckles quietly, ruffling my hair, "Probably sooner than later......Just remember, bravery isn't having the strength to go on. Bravery is going on when you don't have the strength."

Staring at my Father through large, questioning eyes for a moment, I suddenly laugh and throw my arms around his neck, pressing my cheek against his chest.

"I don't know what you mean Daddy" I giggle, "But it sounds very......wise. I'm not as wise as you yet, but one day I'll ask you what you meant, and I'll understand! Okay?"

My Father stares down at me for a moment, before letting out a low breath and wrapping his arms around me, hugging me tightly to his chest.

"You keep complimenting me today Ashley" he murmurs quietly, sounding uncharacteristically serious all of the sudden, "But let me tell you something important. I'm only strong because I've been weak, I'm only brave because I've been afraid, and I'm only wise because I've been foolish. Nobody is born with these good traits. We each have to earn them over time and by going through difficult situations......Do you understand?"

I screw my face up in thought, as my Father places his hands on my shoulders and pulls me away from his chest to look at me. After a few moments of thinking, I grin at my Father and nod happily.

"Yes" I confirm. "I need to go through bad times to really be strong and be like you......Right?"

"Sort of" Father laughs, shaking his head and smiling with amusement. "Like I said, you'll understand when you're older sweetheart. At least you'll understand this right now. I love you."

"I love you too Daddy" I reply brightly, twirling my Father's ponytail around my small hand, "Always and forever!"

Is it ironic that, not even a whole year later, my Father was dead? And then, to make matters worse, about three months later, practically the entire Minami Clan was slaughtered. I can't imagine my Father would have known just how appropriate his words were.....Or at least, would have been, had I truly understood them at the time.

I know I probably didn't go about things in the best way, considering I went along with Orochimaru, but I'd definitely faced overwhelming adversity and gone through difficult situations as a young child. I'm not sure how wise or brave I've become, but I'm definitely stronger.......Physically at least....

'I'll be like you Father' I think, heaving a troubled sigh. 'One day, I'll reach your level....'

I suddenly lift my head, my brows furrowed and my mouth pulled down in an unhappy frown.

'I seriously need to lighten up' I think, walking with a little more purpose. 'I need to keep my mind away from depressing thoughts for awhile......But what can I do?.....'

"I know!" I say, snapping my fingers. "I'll go visit Kohana! I haven't seen that kid since before the Tournament."

Feeling a little better already, I break into a run, looking forward to seeing Kohana and distracting myself for awhile.

Third Person's POV

Kohana sits silently on her couch, hugging a pillow to her chest and leaning her chin on top of it, a blank look on her face. Her dark blue eyes flick over to a picture of her Mother and the three Genin she's training, before Kohana heaves a sigh and turns her head, feeling bored and lonely.

She'd been sitting like this for a good two hours now, ever since her Mother had left with her Genin team for a mission. Kohana would be by herself for a few days, but at least her Mother had taught her how to cook a few very basic meals by now.

Kohana suddenly freezes as someone knocks on her front door, the young girl's eyes widening with uncertainty. She robotically climbs down from the couch and places the cushion back on her seat, dark eyes flicking up to the front door. She bites her lower lip, feeling extremely uncomfortable as the unknown person at the door knocks again.

The young girl knew she couldn't answer the door, seeing as her Mother was adamant that she must remain a secret, but Kohana couldn't help feeling a little helpless. What if it was a crazy person at the door, and they would get so mad that no one was answering the door, that they'd kick it down and grab h-

"Kohana!" a familiar voice suddenly calls, breaking said girl out of her thoughts. "It's me, Ashley! I can sense that its just you in there!....Hurry up and let me in!"

Upon hearing the name of the person at her door, Kohana runs over to it and places her hand on the door knob, pausing for a moment to rein her large smile in. She didn't want to look too enthusiastic and happy about seeing Ashley.

Sucking in a low breath, Kohana's face drops into its usually stoic expression, before she casually pulls the door open. Her blank eyes flick up, only to land on the grinning face of Ashley. Though excited to see her older friend, Kohana maintains her flat expression, remaining silent as Ashley smiles down at her.

"Hey Kohana" the blonde eventually greets, walking into the young girl's house as she steps out of the way. "Long time no see huh?"

"My Mother isn't here" Kohana replies in her soft voice, closing the door and following Ashley into the living room. "She's on a mission with her Genin."

"That's fine" Ashley replies easily, leaning her shoulder against a wall and crossing her arms, "I was actually coming to see you anyway."

Kohana blinks her dark eyes with surprise, as she slowly sinks down onto the couch, head turning to look over at Ashley.

"Really?" the young girl questions, struggling to not sound pleased. "You came here just to see me?"

"Sure" Ashley says with a shrug. "We're friends aren't we? And I haven't seen you in awhile. Not since sometime before the Tournament."

"....I saw you almost die" Kohana comments flatly, making Ashley sweat drop. "I was watching on those big screens. My Mother says you were very hurt.......But you look alright to me...."

"Yeah well" Ashley says sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head, "I had to have surgery and have check ups and stuff, but I feel really good now."

Kohana nods her head slowly, her silvery blue hair shimmering in the sunlight pouring in through one of the windows. She begins twirling some of the longer parts of her hair around her fingers, once again falling silent. Though she felt quite comfortable around Ashley, Kohana wasn't used to having people to communicate with. Other than her Mother of course, but Kohana knew that everyone was different. Her Mother wasn't exactly a big talker.

"So..." Ashley begins, giving Kohana a curious look, "How long are you by yourself for?"

Kohana shrugs uncaringly. "A few days probably."

Ashley's brows furrow at the six year old's careless answer, knowing that Kohana isn't as unfeeling as she seems to be. She was obviously lonely and Ashley couldn't help but feel that since Kyoku wasn't currently in the Village, it was her job to cheer Kohana up.

"Hey...." Ashley says slyly, earning a suspicious look from Kohana. "I've got an idea."

Kohana says nothing, but merely narrows her eyes a little, curious as to what the blonde could have in mind.

"I can tell that you're bored here all by yourself" Ashley begins, visible eye glittering eagerly, "So what if we have a sparring session? I'm sure I could probably teach you a thing or two!"

"Sparring session?" Kohana repeats doubtfully, before shaking her head. "We can't fight in the house."

"We'd go to the training grounds Kohana" Ashley replies wryly, trying not to give the younger girl a deadpan look.

"I can't go outside" the six year old replies hotly, looking at Ashley as if she's stupid. "People will see me."

"So?" Ashley challenges, brows furrowing. "No one's going to recognise you or anything. And besides, your Mother is going to have to let you outside one day. She can't keep you locked up in here forever......It's not like we have to tell her anyway."

Kohana pauses for a moment, dark eyes searching Ashley's face thoughtfully and taking in her slightly smug expression.

It could be fun to go out in the middle of the day and have a sparring session with Ashley. The girl was made a Jonin at the age of twelve, so maybe Kohana could learn a new move or two from her.....And like Ashley had already said, it's not like Kyoku would have to know that her daughter had gone out during the day....

"I can see that you're warming up to the idea" Ashley chuckles, before raising an eyebrow. "So, whaddya say?"

Beginning to feel a little excited, Kohana's mouth pulls up into a tiny smile, before she nods her head.

"Let's do it."

Ashley's POV

I can't help chuckling as Kohana lets out a heavy sigh of relief, sweat dropping and momentarily closing her eyes. I glance down at my left hand, only to see that she's still got a vice like grip on it.

Ever since we'd left her house, Kohana had been clinging tightly to my hand, clearly anxious about being outside during broad daylight and getting seen by people. She'd been so rigid and had walked like a robot the whole way here, as if she was guilty of murdering someone and she'd just been waiting to get recognised. Way to be inconspicuous.

"I can't feel my hand anymore" I say jokingly, to which Kohana's eyes pop open, before she abruptly releases my hand and jumps away from me. Crossing her arms, Kohana stubbornly turns her head away, obviously not wanting me to see the embarrassment on her face.

"Alright" I begin, choosing not to tease her any further, "Before we begin, I know you've got Lightning Nature chakra, but what Jutsu can you actually use?"

"Lightning Blade, Lightning Style: Electric Needle" Kohana replies quietly, looking at me from the corner of her eyes, "Shadow Clone Jutsu, Substitution Jutsu and the Transformation Jutsu."

My eyes widen slightly, one of those Jutsu names catching my attention. I can't even do that!

"Wait..." I say slowly, "You can use the Shadow Clone Jutsu? How?"

"My Mother taught it to me" Kohana informs me flatly, turning her head to gaze at me through dull eyes. "Most ANBU Black Ops know it, although.....I can't create many yet."

"Don't feel bad kid" I state dryly, dead panning, "I can't even make one Shadow Clone.....Alright, well, let's get this sparring session underway. I want to see what sort of level you're on."

A hesitant expression settles on Kohana's face, though I can see a haughty little gleam in her eyes.

"You're not going to really hurt me are you?" she questions cautiously. "Mother never injures me badly when we train...."

"Well, considering you're almost ten years younger than me" I say reassuringly, "I'll try to go a little easier on you. I'm not actually trying to kill you, if that makes you feel better."

I almost laugh at the unconvinced look on Kohana's face, as I reach into the weapons pouch strapped to my right thigh, before suddenly flinging three kunai at the young girl, to test her reaction time.

Her eyes widening slightly, Kohana bends her knees and quickly focuses some chakra into her feet. She abruptly leaps into the air, flipping backwards just as my kunai stick into the ground. As Kohana lands on the ground on one knee, hands on the ground to balance herself, she sends me an annoyed look.

"I wasn't ready" she informs me hotly, to which I smirk and shrug one shoulder.

"In a real fight" I reply coolly, "You won't always be ready for an enemy attack. Your reaction time is good for someone of your age."

That said, I suddenly charge forwards, clenching my hands into fists as Kohana hastily rises to her feet. As I loom in front of her, I pull my right arm back and then throw it forwards, not bothering to infuse any chakra into the punch. I don't want to kill Kohana after all. I'm just testing her a little.

To my surprise, Kohana throws up her hands and is able to catch my fist in between her palms. She focuses chakra into her hands and pushes my fist down towards the ground, before jumping up and placing a foot on my shoulder.

I drop down into a crouched position as Kohana leaps away from me, having used me as a sort of human stepping stone. I feel her pull my kunai out of the ground, as a light smirk finds its way onto my face.

Though it's obvious enough that I'm not using anywhere near my full power against Kohana, she's very impressive for a six year old. Most of them can barely even control their chakra yet, but she's already able to focus it to singular parts of her body and perform high level Jutsu.

Jumping to my feet, I quickly spin around, performing rapid hand signs at the same time.

"Wind Style: Great Breakthrough!" I shout, before sucking in a deep breath and blowing out a powerful, chakra enhanced gale wind.

As the kunai Kohana had flung at me are blown back in different directions, I hear her cry out and throw up her arms, hair flying around wildly.

Rolling my eyes, I pull out another kunai and throw it at Kohana lazily, not even bothering to look at her. The knife hits her with pin point accuracy, piercing right through her throat and causing blood to spurt out of the wound.

Kohana immediately falls towards the ground, but disappears in a puff of smoke just before she hits it.

"You're going to have to be a lot more subtle than that I'm afraid" I say out loud, before suddenly whirling around and throwing up my leg in a high kick. Kohana, who had leapt at me from behind, exhales sharply as my foot collides with her stomach.

Though the kick hadn't been an exceptionally hard one, the young girl goes flying backwards and collides with a rock. It doesn't break or anything, but as Kohana slides to the ground, she groans in pain and rubs her stomach carefully.

Sighing as I walk towards Kohana, I raise my arm and wave my hand around lazily. A large orb of water begins forming in the air, as I manage to use my Katsuryoku to gather moisture from the atmosphere. Kohana raises her head to look at me, as I begin performing another set of hand signs, about to use the only Water Jutsu I actually know.

"Water Style: Water Beast" I say coolly, pressing my palm against the floating orb of water before me and focusing my chakra into it. As the orb of water begins to morph into the shape of a Wolf, I drop my hand and bound backwards, landing in a crouched position a top a nearby rock.

Kohana's dark eyes widen with fear as my Water Beast howls, before it turns its glowing yellow eyes on her and growls nastily. After a very brief pause, the Beast begins barrelling towards Kohana, as the girl struggles to her feet and begins performing hand signs.

My own eyes widen a little, as jagged blue lightning begins to spark around Kohana's hand. It still amazes me that such a young child can already perform Kakashi Sensei's Jutsu so well. And speaking of my Sensei.....

I subtly glance at a spot off to my left, looking into the trees, even though I can't see anything out of the ordinary. Hmm.....

"L-Lightning Blade!" Kohana cries, recapturing my attention. Just as my Water Beast lunges for Kohana, the silvery haired girl bravely leaps forwards and throws her dangerously sparking hand towards its chest. I watch as her Lightning Blade easily slices through the Watery creature, causing it to burst with a loud boom and spray water in all directions.

Kohana flips around and lands on one knee, her electrified hand held up in the air as she breathes heavily, water raining down on her. As the lightning fades from Kohana's hand, she lowers it down to the ground and raises her head, looking for me. She jumps with fright however, when she sees me standing over her, my hands on my hips and a light grin on my face.

"You're fast" the silvery haired girl comments, panting a little. "You were over....Over there just a second....Ago...."

"You'll be as fast as me in a few years" I chuckle, accidentally sounding a little sarcastic. I may like Kohana, but I'm also very proud of my speed. I'd like to think she'll never be as fast as me. But then, I'd like to think that no one is as fast as me....

"I know you're not used to using your chakra like this" I begin, placing a hand on my hip and tilting my head to the side, "And I know that you're pretty tired already, but I'm actually quite impressed. For someone who never actually spars, your reaction time and use of Jutsu is fantastic.....Wouldn't you say so Kakashi Sensei?"

Kohana's head snaps up at this, her eyes widening and her breath catching in her throat. I smirk knowingly to myself as I hear leaves rustling behind me, before Kakashi Sensei appears, strolling over to us with his hands in his pockets.

"Looks like I'm busted" the silver haired man chuckles, giving me a sheepish closed eye smile. "There's just no sneaking around when you've got your Katsuryoku activated."

"You weren't sneaking" I say, rolling my eyes playfully, "You were spying on us."

"Well, I saw the two of you walking through the Village" Kakashi Sensei informs me, shrugging a shoulder, "And I was interested to see what you could be up to."

Kohana slowly rises to her feet, her wide eyes focused on her Father. She backs up a few steps, and just when I see that she is about to make a run for it, I subtly wave my hand.

"Huh?" the young girl murmurs, glancing down at her feet. Upon seeing tendrils of rock curled around her ankles, Kohana looks up and casts me an accusing glare. I expertly ignore her look and smile slyly at Kakashi Sensei, nodding my head towards Kohana.

"Whaddya think Sensei?" I ask. "Kohana's pretty good for a six year old huh?"

Kakashi Sensei turns his head, his visible eye resting on the silently panicking Kohana's face. He stares at her for a moment, clearly making her even more uncomfortable, if her fidgeting is anything to go by. I'm sure my Sensei is wondering what her problem is....

"Six years old?" Kakashi Sensei repeats quietly, studying Kohana carefully. "You've got some very impressive skills for such a young child."

Kohana's eyes drop to the ground at her Father's compliment, unsure how to react. She rubs her elbow awkwardly, before quickly glancing up at Kakashi Sensei.

"Thank you......" she murmurs so quietly, I almost don't hear her. Kohana's gaze falls back to the dirt, as Kakashi Sensei tilts his head. I have no doubt he's suspicious about Kohana, and he probably has quite a few questions to ask her.

"That Lightning Blade of yours was exceptional" the silver haired man continues slowly. "Not many people are even able to perform Chidori, the less extreme version of Lightning Blade, but you seem to be able to perform it with ease......Although I can see that your hand is burnt."

"What?" I ask, looking down at Kohana just as she tries to hide her injured hand behind her back. "I didn't even notice that. How perceptive Sensei.....Here Kohana, let me heal it for you."

Kohana shakes her head as I kneel down in front of her and grab her arm, pulling her wrist towards me. As I perform some hand signs and begin healing Kohana's hand, she glares at me through wavering eyes.

"I w-want to leave" she whispers, her voice shaking a little bit. I can't help sighing a little at this, wondering why Kohana is so desperate to obey her Mother's wish to keep her a secret from her own Father. If Kohana would only disobey Kyoku, she'd see what a wonderful man Kakashi Sensei is. I bet Kohana would love her Father, and after getting over the initial shock, I'm sure Kakashi Sensei would love Kohana. He's very protective of his students, so I can only imagine how he'd be if he knew Kohana was his daughter.....

"How did you learn the Lightning Blade?" Kakashi asks pleasantly, though I can tell he's extremely curious. "It's an original Jutsu that I created, so I can't imagine how such a young girl would know it."

"You could say that Kohana is a huge fan of yours Sensei" I speak up, answering for Kohana as she freezes. She lets out a low breath as I rise to my feet, having finished healing her hand, before her face retains its usual flat expression. I'm sure she realises that she's coming across as timid, and I can't imagine that's the impression she wants to make on her Father, even if he doesn't know who she is.

Kakashi Sensei narrows his eye at me, taking in my innocent expression, before his gaze falls to Kohana, who has now crossed her arms and is looking somewhere off to the left.

"Well, if you don't want to end up with a burnt hand every time you use that Jutsu" Kakashi begins, offering some advice, "Try to concentrate your chakra into the very middle of your palm. Your chakra wasn't controlled enough, and it was covering your whole hand.......Perhaps Ashley could help you with your chakra control at some point."

As Kakashi had been talking, Kohana's head had slowly been turning around to face him. Now, her widened eyes are focused on her Father, almost as if she can't look away. After a few moments of the two staring at each other, I see Kohana's eyes beginning to waver, her lower lip trembling slightly.

'Uh oh' I think, as a question mark appears above Kakashi Sensei's head. I hope he doesn't think Kohana's about to cry because of what he said...

"Well, thanks for dropping by Sensei!" I say brightly, grabbing Kohana by the hand and giving the silver haired man a playful two fingered salute, "But Kohana and I have places to be! We'll see you later, alright? Bye!"

That said, I whirl around and begin running, tugging Kohana along behind me. I feel Kakashi Sensei staring after us, no doubt very confused as to what had just happened. From the corner of my eye, I see Kohana glance back over her shoulder, wanting to get one last glimpse of her Father.

I internally sigh, wishing I could just tell Kakashi Sensei about his daughter. It's just not fair that Kohana, who clearly wants to meet her Father properly, has to keep it to herself. Kakashi is one of my absolute favourite people, and I don't like that Kohana doesn't get to enjoy him and the fact that he is her Dad.

The two of us slow down our pace as we come to the main part of the Village, though we both remain silent all the way until we reach my house. I drop Kohana's hand as we stop outside my door, with me using my Katsuryoku to pull my key from the ground.

Kohana glances around in confusion, sniffling and rubbing one of her eyes with the back of her hand. As I unlock my door, I look back over my shoulder, only to see that Kohana is staring at me, her eyes filled with tears. My shoulders droop slightly at the sight of the broken hearted little girl in front of me, my heart going out to her. She's not usually so emotional, so coming face to face with Kakashi Sensei had obviously affected her.

"Kohana?" I ask quietly, dropping down to kneel in front of the silvery haired girl. She shakes her head, her tears now spilling over and dripping down her cheeks.

"H-He's so nice...." she cries softly, once again rubbing at her eyes. I give Kohana a troubled look, before my arms automatically open. Without hesitation, Kohana dives at me, wrapping her arms around my neck and crying miserably into my shoulder.

Rubbing her back in an attempt to try and comfort her, I lift Kohana up and carry her into my house, pained by her sorrowful sobbing. Seeing as I'm not exactly the nurturing type, I'm not entirely sure what to do with a crying child. All I know is, I'm not letting her go back home tonight. I don't want her to be all alone if she's going to be so sad.

"Sit here for a moment" I say quietly, gently setting Kohana down on my couch and stepping back. "I have an idea that might cheer you up."

Kohana pulls her knees up and hugs them to her chest, tears still dripping from her eyes as she sniffs and stares miserably at the floor.

I quickly pull out a scroll from my weapons pouch and pull it open, before biting my thumb hard and swiping a small line of blood across the parchment. Rolling the scroll back up and placing it between both of my hands, I perform a hand sign.

"Summoning Jutsu!" I call, only to be enveloped in a large cloud of smoke. I feel Kohana wave one hand around, trying to get the smoke away from her.

"Milady!" a bright voice chirps, as something furry rubs against my hip. "Miladymiladymilady! I've missed you!"

"I've missed you too Chi" I chuckle, placing a hand on the caramel Wolf's head and scratching his ear. As the smoke clears, two more Wolves become visible, with one of them fluffing his glorious fur cutely, sapphire eyes hooded and sparkling.

"Darling" Aki greets is his velvety smooth voice, "It's been too long. You're looking as ravishing as ever."

"And you're looking as handsome as ever" I reply coyly, to which Aki chuckles and glides over to me, the top of his head reaching my chin. The flirtatious Wolf nuzzles my shoulder, his fluffy tail curling up into the air.

"Oh Darling" the black and white Wolf purrs, "I know. I get better looking every day."

"Oh Aki...." a light, female voice sighs. "You must learn to not be so vain. I'm sure Lady Ashley didn't summon us just to hear you gloat about yourself."

"Rei" I greet the pretty Wolf happily, crouching down, "It's good to see you."

Lavender eyes lighting up as I open my arms, Rei bounds over to me, giggling happily. She's so adorable. She looks just like an excited pup right now!

"Milady" Rei replies, rubbing her head against my cheek as I hug her tightly, "We haven't seen each other in so long. I've missed you!"

"Milaaaadyyyyy!" Chi whines, his ears drooping as he hops around next to me. "I want a hug too! Aiti, please move so Lady Ashley can hug me too!"

Laughing, I sling one arm around Chi's neck as well, ducking my head between the two Wolves as they step all over my knees in their excitement.

"Darling?" Aki questions, catching my attention. "Who is this wonderful little creature sitting here?"

"Ohhh....." Rei murmurs softly, her ears drooping a little as she lays eyes on the teary eyed Kohana behind her. "The poor little dear, she looks so sad..."

"Pretty Girl-chan!" Chi cries, pulling himself from my grip and bouncing over to Kohana, who eyes him warily. "I haven't seen you in forever! Why are you crying? Are you sad? Are you hurt? Did somebody steal your best friend? I understand coz Aki-kun sometimes tries to steal Jet-chan from me, and it makes me really, really, really sad when Aki-kun gets all of Jet-chan's attent-"

"Chi sweetheart" Rei addresses softly, walking over to Kohana and sitting down before her, head tilted to the side, "Don't overwhelm the poor child. She's clearly upset about something....My name is Rei dear, what's yours?"

Kohana stares down at kind hearted Rei, probably a little confused by the warmth behind the pretty Wolf's gaze.

"K-Kohana" the young girl replies, to which all of my Wolves look to me, a little confused.

"Is this the Kohana you were telling us about Darling?" Aki inquires, jumping up onto my couch and lying down beside the young girl, his paws crossed prettily.

"This is your Sensei's daughter isn't it?" Rei asks, as Chi also leaps onto the couch, though he begins sniffing at Kohana eagerly, his pale eyes glittering and his tail wagging. "The one he doesn't know about?"

"She smells good!" the young Wolf giggles, now sniffing at Kohana's hair. "But she smells sad."

"Pray tell Chi" Aki inquires, raising one perfect eyebrow, "How can one smell sad?"

Before Chi can go off on one of his usual five words a second explanations, I interrupt, wanting to explain to my Wolves why they've been summoned.

"Kohana and I ran into Kakashi Sensei today" I inform the three animals, "And he actually spoke to Kohana. I've already explained how she has to be kept a secret from him to you before, so I'm sure you can understand why Kohana is sad."

"Poor dear" Rei coos, rubbing her head against Kohana's knees. "It must be very hard for you, to keep yourself a secret from your Father."

"Such a pretty young thing too" Aki sighs, touching Kohana's hair with one of his paws. "I'm sure he'd be honoured to have such an attractive offspring."

"Don't cry anymore Koha-chan!" Chi chirps, nuzzling Kohana's cheek. "We're gonna keep you company and make you feel aaaalllll better! That's what friends are for! And since we're gonna be your friends now, it's our job to take away your sad! It's a good thing you didn't summon Kai-chan Milady! He'd probably try to eat Koha-chan! And I don't think that would make her much happier...."

I can't help giggling as Chi continues talking a mile a minute, as I disappear into the kitchen, wanting to make something for Kohana to eat. I'm sure after she's spent some time with my loving Wolves and had a decent meal, she'll be feeling a good deal better.

As I begin cooking and doing other things around my kitchen, I hear my Wolves chattering away with Kohana, their antics even managing to make her giggle once or twice, which makes me smile. It must be nice for her to actually leave her house and do things for once, even if it means spending time with the giant personalities of my Wolf Pack.

"Darling?" I hear Aki address me, about twenty minutes later. Turning around just as I put Kohana's food on a plate, I see my black and white Wolf standing in the doorway, ears pricked up.

"That smells delicious" Aki sighs dreamily, before nodding his head in the direction of our living room. "Come and have a look at this Darling, it's precious."

Giving Aki a questioning look, I follow him back into the living room, wiping a hand on my skirt. I pause in the doorway however, an affectionate smile settling on my face as I see the scene before me.

Kohana has fallen asleep on the couch, with one arm around Chi's neck. The caramel Wolf is also asleep, lying comfortably across the young girl's lap. Rei is lying across Kohana's feet on the floor, paws crossed over each other cutely.

"I guess Kohana's feeling better" I whisper to Aki, noting the faint smile on the sleeping girl's lips.

"I would assume so" Aki replies with a soft laugh, sapphire eyes sparkling. At the sound of his laugh, one of Rei's lavender eyes opens and lands on us. I give her a grin and place one finger to my lips, to which she smiles sleepily and recloses her eye.

Running one hand down the silky fur of Aki's neck, I motion for him to come back into the kitchen.

"No point letting this go to waste then" I tell the black and white Wolf, to which he nods eagerly and jumps up into a chair at the table.

"I will graciously aid you in not wasting this lovely meal" Aki offers, flashing me a dazzling smile as I roll my eyes and playfully elbow him in the back of the head.

"Such a generous offer" I say sarcastically, placing a plateful of food down before my beautiful Wolf. "Go nuts."

"Please" Aki sighs, rolling his own eyes. "A real gentleman does not go nuts at the dinner table."

"Whatever" I mumble, shoving a forkful of food in my mouth. "Just eat, before I throw it at you."

Please vote and comment for me! xD

Also, I've been asked this a few times, and I'm thinking it's a good idea, but I want to know what you all think.

When it comes to the right time, do you guys want me to do an Stwf version of the Naruto movie, Road To Ninja? I think it could be cool, but if no one wants it, I won't do it. Let me know what you think in the comments! :D

Oh, and don't forget to check out my original Anime style story, Shield's Undertaking :3 Au revoire lovely fans! xD