Ashley's POV

I stare at my younger sister in total shock, almost unable to believe the number of empty food containers piling up on the side table beside her bed.

I would have never expected my sister, so timid and delicate, to be able to eat more food than even me. Especially considering she was still recovering from some pretty horrifying injuries.

If Choji could see this, I bet he'd be just as impressed as I am.

"Please stop staring at me Ley-chan" Kiyumi asks, giggling awkwardly. "You're making me feel self-conscious.

"Sorry" I apologise, shoving some more rice in my mouth. "I just didn't expect you to have such a huge appetite."

Saffire barks out a laugh and points at Kiyumi with her fork, as my sister's face turns red. She ducks her head, though is apparently not too embarrassed to keep eating.

"My Kiyu has like, the best appetite going around" Keilor brags, meat sauce staining the fur around his mouth. "No one can eat more than her."

"Keilor" Kiyumi complains, causing some of the others to laugh.

"The fact that you have such a large appetite right now means that you are recovering well" Fang states, nodding happily. "I'm glad to see it Kiyu."

"Considering you and Lady Ashley eat so much" Kai scoffs, "I dunno how you're both so short."

Kiyumi sweat drops at this, as I deadpan and slowly turn my head to glare at Kai.

"Better watch your mouth Kai" I warn, only half joking, "Or you'll be choking on this fork in a minute."

The large Wolf bares his fangs in a devilish smirk, his red eyes glittering with mischief.

"You need to eat lot's more, so you'll be as tall as Tai-chan one day" Tsumetai advises wisely, the chibi placing both hands on his hips and puffing out his chest.

"As tall as you?" Atsui repeats, tilting his head down to look at his Guardian with a flat expression on his face.

I bite my lower lip, holding in a smile. Looking at Atsui and Tsumetai, the tiny Guardian barely even came up to Atsui's knee.

"Well, not right now Atsui-chan" Tsumetai whines, waving his arms up and down. "When Tai-chan transforms, he is taller than everyone! Look!"

"Don't transform here you idiot!" Atsui shouts in a panic, leaping to his feet and swiping Tsumetai up into his arms. He shakes the chibi back and forth. "You'll make the roof collapse!"

"Weeeeeee!" Tsumetai squeals, enjoying his sudden ride through the air.

Kiyumi, Saffire, Kurai and Fang all begin giggling as Atsui heaves a heavy sigh, lowering his Guardian back down to the ground and wearily dumping himself back into his seat.

I turn my head to the side, making eye contact with Ace. He rolls his eye good naturedly and returns to eating his food, something that causes me to chuckle quietly to myself.

Despite the fact that we are in our homeland and back with our Clan members, it didn't seem that Ace was any less unimpressed than normal. Our Clan members annoyed him just as much as my Leaf Village friends did.

It's comforting, in a weird way. No matter the situation, my Guardian's personality is always the same.

"It's good to see everyone so lively" Arelle says warmly, surveying us all with kind eyes. "It has been too long since we have all been able to relax with each other like this."

"Being able to hang out with everyone out in the open is the best" Saffire concludes, stretching her arms above her head. "We've been cooped up in the temple for way too long."

"Strolling through the Village without having to look over our shoulders has been very enjoyable" Fang adds, glancing up at Kai slyly. "Although, with a huge brute like this walking next to you, no one is going to cause trouble anyway."

"You're welcome" Kai growls, though he sounds more amused than anything.

"It's so nice to be able to eat our meals all together" Kiyumi agrees, her dark eyes shining as she looks to me. "Food always tastes better when you eat it with people you care about."

Enjoying the relaxed conversation, I look back down at the food in my lap and shove another forkful of it into my mouth.

While I can't imagine just how difficult things had been for my clanmates when Sirius had taken over the island, I can certainly understand their relief at having freedom. After being in the Leaf Village for long enough, I had experienced the same feeling.

Being able to feel relaxed and comfortable in a place that you call home is such a freeing feeling.

"Well, we can look forward to always enjoying our meals then" Kurai says brightly, closing her eyes and smiling. "Now that Ley-chan is staying here with us, we can eat together whenever we want!"

I immediately choke on my food at Kurai's words, beginning to cough violently, as Ace's head whips up. His ears standing up, the Wolf looks to me suspiciously, as everyone else in the room turns to stare at me as well, a few people gasping in surprise.

I see Kai's red eyes wide open, his ears perked straight up, a shocked expression that I have never seen on his face before. His eyes flick between Ace and I, the Wolf trying to understand what he had just heard.

"What?!" Saffire exclaims, leaping out of her seat, her fuchsia eyes round as she gapes at me. "No way! You're staying here?!"

"Oh, how wonderful" Fang says, sounding a little tearful at the idea.

Having managed to swallow my food and catch my breath, I look back at everyone with wild eyes, my heart thudding in my chest.

What were they talking about? When had I ever mentioned staying here?

"Wait a-"

"We're so glad that you're going to stay with us Ley-chan" Kurai tells me sweetly, her eyes glittering with happiness. "We've all missed you terribly."

"But I never-"

"...Y-You're going to stay here with us?" Kiyumi asks softly, her lower lip trembling.

I feel myself beginning to panic internally, as everyone continues to stare at me. Too many pairs of hopeful eyes bore into me, making me feel as if I've been caught in some inescapable trap.

"You have never mentioned this before Milady" Ace points out, a hint of emotion in his usually flat voice.

I can't tell if it is annoyance or curiosity, but either way, he's right. I'd never even thought about staying here, let alone mentioning it to anyone!

"Well, of course, we'll be overjoyed to have you Ashley" my grandfather says, smiling affectionately at me. "I can't imagine anything would make Kiyumi happier."

"Yes, I......." Kiyumi trails off, sounding as if she is struggling not to cry again. "I would love to live with you again Ley-chan...."

"H-Hang on a second everyone" I stutter, feeling somewhat cornered. "I don't understand what you're talking about. What do you mean by I'm staying here?"

I see a few heads tilt to the side in confusion at my question, while Kurai smiles at me.

"You're going to stay here in the Land of Ambience, aren't you?" she asks, although to me, it doesn't really sound like a question. It sounds more like she's telling me that's what I'm doing.

"Why.....Why would I do that?" I query, thoroughly confused by this whole conversation.

What on earth had given Kurai the idea that I'd be staying here?

"Well, it just makes sense, doesn't it?" Kurai replies, shrugging her shoulders. "You're a Minami. Why wouldn't you stay here with your Clan?"

"But-"

"Kurai's right" Saffire agrees, folding her arms across her chest and nodding her head. "We were all born here and grew up together. You might have been separated from us for a long time, but now that we've been reunited, you should stay here with us!"

"It would be so hard for us if you were to leave again Ashley" Fang adds, sadness in her eyes at the thought of me leaving.

Feeling my breathing quicken, I look to Ace and Kai for help. Ace, his ears now lying flat, looks angry, while Kai rises to his feet, still watching me with great concern.

"Milady has declared no such thing" Ace informs everyone sternly, stepping in front of me. "This is not something that you can decide on her behalf."

"Don't be a jerk Ace" Saffire admonishes, brows furrowing. "You can't blame us for being excited about Ashley staying here."

"I understand your excitement at the thought" Ace replies curtly, "However Milady has never stated that she will be staying here."

Before anyone can say anything else, Kiyumi abruptly bursts into tears, her head in her hands. I feel a wave of guilt wash over me as Keilor and Kurai rush over to comfort my little sister, her shoulders shaking up and down as she cries.

"Don't cry Kiyu-chan...." Kurai soothes comfortingly, rubbing my sister's back and casting me a pointed look. "Ace didn't mean that......"

"Do not speak for me" Ace warns, only for Tamashi to step in front of Kurai and glare at my Guardian. "And do not try to intimidate me either. It will not work."

"What're you making her cry for?" Atsui accuses, shooting me a look of distaste. "Is staying with your sister such a horrible thing?"

"No, of course it's not" I sigh wearily. "I would love to live with Kiyu and Keilor again. It's just......"

I trail off, as images of Team Seven's faces flash through my mind, as well as those of Kiba, Ino and my other friends from the Leaf Village. All of the things we've experienced during the time that we've been together......

I don't know how to give that life up now. I don't know how to leave them behind, and I don't know how to live here. I don't know how to make a new life here in my homeland......

"How hard can it be to live here, with your own Clan" Saffire pouts, her eyes drifting away from me. "We're more important than those people that you barely even know...."

"Do you not like us Ley-chan?" Tsumetai asks miserably, his ears drooping.

"Of course I like you" I respond frustratedly. "It's got nothing to do with not liking you guys. I just.....I have a life in the Leaf Village now. I can't just-"

"How can you say that?" Kurai demands to know, looking hurt. "I don't understand how choosing between them, people you've known for a year at best, and us, your own Clan, could be a difficult choice!"

Growing annoyed with this pressure being put on me, I feel myself beginning to scowl, as I finally realise something.

"Ashley-chan, you're not ditching us, right?"

"You're coming back to the Leaf Village, aren't you?"

"See?! Ashley-chan's staying with us! Told ya!"

"You said something to my friends, didn't you" I accuse the pink haired girl.

It made sense. Earlier today, Kurai had been speaking with my friends about something, and had immediately left when I arrived. They had all been in a good mood when I had left to go and find my team, and then had all been acting weird since Kurai left.

"I-I didn't-"

"What did you tell them?" I demand to know. "Why would you say that I'm leaving? You upset them!"

"So what?" Kurai finally snaps back, though her eyes are wavering. "I don't care if they get upset! You're one of us, a Minami. Our whole Clan was slaughtered in front of our eyes. Can you blame me for wanting you to stay with us? All we have left is this small group of Minami. The rest are gone. Forever. I don't want to lose another one!"

I blink at Kurai's uncharacteristic outburst, angry tears dripping from her eyes as she holds my gaze. While some of the other Minami seem concerned, no one says anything. The room remains silent, save for the sound of my sister crying.

I feel Kurai's words sting me in the chest, that feeling of guilt growing and seeming to weigh me down like a boulder.

I lower my eyes to the floor, as Kurai sighs and turns away from me, focusing on comforting my sister. I feel bad for making her cry, but to be grieving me as if I had died.....

Is that how they feel about me leaving? Is leaving them really as bad as me dying? Kurai had said that they don't want to lose me, but if I go back home, I just don't understand how that's the same as me dying.

I could still send letters. I could still visit them.

Deep down inside however, a part of me understands what Kurai means and how my little sister feels. We watched so many of our family members die in front of us, and some of us just never saw our families again, without knowing how they died.

They've obviously been through so much together since then, and to see me alive, I'm sure they were as overjoyed as I was. But while I have managed to find myself new friends and new people to hold dear, they have only had each other. It makes sense that they would all be so tight knit, and feel so strongly about wanting me to stay.

I understand it, I really do. I get why they're mad at me and I get why they're frustrated by my reluctance..........but......

Leaving behind Naruto, Sakura, Sasuke and Kakashi Sensei.......and Kiba......

It just feels too difficult. I don't think I can do it. I don't think I'm strong enough to willingly leave them all to live here forever.

"Ley-chan" a tearful voice addresses me, catching my attention and causing me to look up.

I feel my chest tighten at the sight of my sister holding one hand out towards me, tears flowing down her cheeks and a helpless look on her face.

"P-Please don't leave me again" she pleads, desperate. "Please stay w-with me......"

Despite my feelings about not wanting to leave my friends, I find myself stepping forwards, unable to resist the hopeless plea of my younger sister. I reach out and take her hand, before wrapping my other arm around her shoulders and pulling her into my chest.

"Don't cry Kiyu" I beg, my voice a whisper. "Please don't cry."

My poor sister. She had always been the timid one. The nervous one.

I had always been there to protect her. Even if I was scared, seeing her weakness always urged me to step forwards and shield her. She felt safe with me. And I had vanished suddenly from her life. First Dad was taken, then Mom, and then............she had thought I was dead, all this time.....She thought she was alone.

"Milady" Ace says hesitantly, only for me to close my eyes as my sister clings to me desperately.

"I won't leave you" I promise, the weighted feeling inside me growing heavier.

Third Person's POV

"Gah!" Naruto exclaims, shielding his eyes from the sun. "It's so hot again today......We should go swimming again!"

"I'll pass" Shikamaru blanches, hands shoved in his pockets. "I'm still recovering from almost drowning yesterday."

"Are you still on about that?" Choji laughs, patting Shikamaru on the back. "I said I was sorry."

"It wasn't funny Choji" Ino sniffs. "If you're going swimming, then I'm not."

"You didn't even swim anyway" Kiba points out, strolling out of the door past Ino, Akamaru bounding ahead of him.

"Shut up Kiba" Ino scoffs, poking her tongue out at the brunette.

"We'd probably need Ashley to show us where that river is again anyway" Shikamaru points out, glancing around. "Has anyone even seen her?"

"I haven't" Ino says slowly, trying to recall.

"She got back in really late" Sakura states, remembering hearing Ashley enter their shared room during the early morning hours. "She didn't say anything though. She probably thought we were all asleep."

"A-Ashley-chan left early this m-morning too" Hinata adds, a little bit worried. "Before a-any of us w-were up."

"I saw her this morning" Sasuke speaks up, looking irritated. "I tried to talk to her, but she ran off......She was obviously avoiding me."

"What?" Sakura questions, tilting her head. "Why would she avoid you Sasuke-kun?"

"Did you say something annoying?" Naruto asks, earning himself a sharp look from the Uchiha.

"So, nobody knows where she is then?" Kiba asks, seemingly in thought about something.

"Nope" Choji confirms, to which Naruto sighs deeply.

"How are we gonna find that river without Ashley-chan?" he complains. "It's too hot to do anything else!"

"Well, you'll just have to find a way to amuse yourself Naruto" Sakura says sharply, before her demeanour softens a little. "Maybe Ashley is just at the hospital with her sister? She was pretty worried about her after all....."

"Ashley's not at the hospital" Kakashi informs everyone, suddenly appearing behind them. "I was just there to check."

Kakashi had found out that Ashley had disappeared from the hospital the day before, and while initially a bit annoyed, he hadn't been the least bit surprised. What was strange though, was that he hadn't laid eyes on her since the last time he'd seen her in the hospital.

Apparently, she had spent about half the day swimming with her friends, but then she had disappeared. Sakura had mentioned that Ashley had gone to visit her sister in the hospital, but why had she come back so late and then disappeared again so early?

Kakashi sighs internally, as the Genin all begin talking again.

The plan was to leave the Land of Ambience as soon as Shino was well enough to travel. He had woken up last night, but had been instructed to remain in the hospital for the time being, to ensure his wounds had healed well.

After seeing her sister, her grandfather and her other clanmates......

Kakashi worried about what Ashley could be thinking.

Ashley walks through the Village aimlessly, staring at the ground through half lidded eyes and her mouth pulled down in a faint frown.

The sights of the bright and bustling Village, the smells of delicious foods and fragrant flowers, the sounds of chatter and birds chirping......Ashley didn't notice any of it. She may as well have been walking through a silent void. It wouldn't have made a difference.

Walking slowly, as if dragging a ball and chain behind her, Ashley makes her way down the street, not really knowing where she is going.

She hadn't been able to leave the hospital until very late, stuck celebrating her decision with the other Minami until the hospital staff had finally asked everyone to leave.

Ashley had been feeling strange ever since then. As she had slowly made her way back to the inn, as she had climbed into bed, and as she had woken up that morning.

Numb. On edge.

Sasuke had tried to talk to Ashley earlier and she had been surprised that anyone else was even up at that hour.

But Ashley hadn't had the heart to face him, and had run away instead. She feared that if she faced Sasuke, or any of her friends, she would blurt everything out and then burst into tears.

Ashley briefly closes her eyes and releases a deep sigh.

She was even avoiding having that conversation with Ace. The Wolf had tried to speak with her last night, but Ashley just didn't want to talk about it.

He had been right of course, about everything. That Ashley was being guilted into staying, that she didn't even want to stay, that her friends would be devastated by the news.

It was all true. He was absolutely right. But what was Ashley supposed to do?

Seeing her sister crying like that and reaching out for her.....How could Ashley say no? How could Ashley abandon her again, and leave her alone?

If staying meant that Kiyumi would be able to smile and be happy every day, then Ashley could do it.

Well, she thought she could anyway......But avoiding her friends to try and get out of having to tell them suggested otherwise.

"Why is everything always so difficult?" Ashley wonders out loud, looking to the sky for help.

Ashley continues to wander aimlessly for another few hours, eventually finding herself at the cliffs overlooking the harbour. She stands at the edge of the cliffs, looking down at a large ship, as the ocean breeze tugs her hair away from her face.

After everything that had transpired, it almost felt a little unreal to see the ship still there. It felt like they had been in the Land of Ambience for a long time, though in reality, it hadn't been more than a week or so.

Sighing again, Ashley dumps herself down on the ground, her legs dangling over the edge of the cliff. The girl leans back on her hands, silently watching the ocean down below.

Seeing as Ashley now had very limited time with her friends, she knew that she should be spending as much time with them as possible, but.........She just didn't feel brave enough to.

She knew how they would react.

Kiba and Naruto would get mad, and try to convince Ashley to change her mind. Sasuke would get angry too, especially now that he knew they were relatives. Sakura would cry, and beg Ashley to stay. Just like Kiyumi had.

Ashley takes a deep breath and closes her eyes.

She didn't think she could stand seeing those tears. If Sakura cried like that in front of her.....Ashley felt like her resolve would crumble. And then what would she do?

Naruto would probably cry too, after getting mad. How was Ashley suppose to say no to a crying Naruto?

And Kiba......Well, he probably wouldn't cry. But seeing that look on his face would break Ashley's heart. She didn't want to cause him any pain...

"Finally found you" a voice says, suddenly breaking Ashley out of her thoughts and causing her to turn her head in alarm.

"....Kakashi Sensei" Ashley addresses quietly, her eyes wavering at the sight of the Jonin before her.

She quickly turns around and pulls her knees to her chest, folding her arms over her knees and burying her face in them.

"I was trying to avoid running into anyone......"

"I figured" Kakashi chuckles, sitting down beside Ashley, one knee bent and one leg dangling over the side of the cliff. "......Having a hard time?"

"Aren't I always?" Ashley asks flatly, her face still hidden in her arms. "You must get really sick of checking on me...."

He wouldn't have to anymore.

"I'm your Sensei" Kakashi says simply, reaching out and gently placing one hand on Ashley's head. "That's what I'm here for."

Ashley feels her eyes well up with tears at Kakashi's touch.

She'd miss having him around. He was sarcastic and a little harsh sometimes, but he was someone that Ashley could trust and rely on, one hundred percent. He was always on Ashley's side, no matter how annoying and difficult she was being. He praised her when she deserved it and reprimanded her when necessary.

A voice of wisdom and guidance when Ashley felt lost.

As Kakashi removes his hand from Ashley's hair, the girl turns her head slightly, so that she can see her Sensei.

It was good that he wasn't saying a lot. Because one word from Kakashi would make Ashley completely change her mind.

Turning to look at his student, Kakashi sees Ashley watching him through hooded eyes, her cheek resting on her arms and tears dripping down her face.

It didn't seem that Ashley was looking for an answer this time. In fact, it looked to Kakashi that Ashley had already made a choice. Though, it seemed to be one that her heart wasn't truly in.

That look on her face was one of miserable acceptance, and that made Kakashi's heart hurt.

But the Jonin knew that he couldn't be selfish here. He didn't want to cause his student anymore distress than she already seemed to be in. All he could do, was be supportive.

Even if he didn't really want to be.

".........You've grown up a lot" Kakashi says, after a few minutes of silence. He turns to look at Ashley, affection in his gaze, before he closes his eyes and smiles at the girl. "I'm proud of you Ashley. Remember that."

Ashley's eyes widen at these words, her chest swelling with pride, as well as a painful sense of regret, that causes her tears to start up again. She buries her head back in her arms, her shoulders quaking a little.

"Don't say that Kakashi Sensei" the girl begs. "Y-You're talking like we'll never see each other again....."

"I'm sure we won't be apart for too long" the Jonin assures his student, though he doesn't know whether that is actually the truth or not.

Not wanting to upset Ashley any further, Kakashi rises back to his feet.

He had initially gone looking for Ashley to try and find out what was wrong, but after having seen her.......Kakashi already knew. He didn't need her to confirm it verbally.

As soon as Kakashi had heard that some of the Minami Clan were alive, he had a feeling that Ashley might want to stay with them. It only made sense. After all, they were her family. How could Kakashi, Team Seven and the Land of Fire compare?

While Kakashi had expected the decision to stay, he hadn't expected Ashley to seem so sad about it. Almost as if she didn't really want to stay......

"Make sure you come back to the inn tonight" Kakashi advises gently. "Shino is awake now, and the others will want to see you before......Well, your friends want to see you."

"......Got it" comes the quiet response, Ashley's face still buried in her arms.

Seeing her look so small, Kakashi pauses for a moment, wanting to try and ease Ashley's mind, though he decides against it. He didn't want to push her to do what he wanted her to do. It had to be Ashley's decision, or she would regret it.

Sighing quietly to himself, Kakashi performs a hand sign and disappears from sight, leaving Ashley alone on the cliff once again. She remains in that curled up position, silently allowing her tears to fall for a long time.

If this was the right decision, Ashley didn't understand why it hurt so much.

The other Minami had all been overjoyed when Ashley had promised to stay, especially Kiyumi. She was glad that they were so happy about her decision. She had made that decision to make her sister happy.

If it was the right decision, why did Ashley already feel such a sense of loss?

Feeling something brush against her arm, Ashley lifts her head slightly, only to see large orange and brown leaves swirling around her. Raising her head fully, Ashley watches as the leaves float away from her and begin to spin around in a small vortex beside her, before Aki and Tiez suddenly appear.

"Found ya!" Tiez barks, leaping at Ashley.

The young Wolf rests her from paws on Ashley's left shoulder, scowling up at her, while Aki smiles brilliantly behind her.

"We've missed you Darling" the Wolf coos, stepping forwards and butting his forehead against Ashley's. "We haven't seen you since.......Darling, what's wrong?"

"Nothing" Ashley mutters, reaching up and wiping at her tears with the back of her hand.

"Not nothin" Tiez reprimands, pushing against Ashley's shoulder to shake her. "What're you cryin for?"

"We don't see you for all this time" Aki says, serious now, "And when we do find you, you're so sad? Tell us what happened Darling."

Curling himself around Ashley, Aki snuggles up to the girl, trying to make her feel better. Tiez, not wanting to be left out, pushes her nose under Ashley's arm and squirms through, causing Ashley's arm to rest around her as if they were cuddling.

Ashley can't help smiling to herself, feeling somewhat comforted by the two Wolves already. She hugs Tiez to her side, while also putting her other arm around Aki's neck. The black and white Wolf leans in at her touch, resting his head against the girl's shoulder.

".........At least I won't have to worry about missing you two anymore" Ashley eventually sighs, causing question marks to appear over the heads of the two Wolves.

"What do you mean?" Aki demands to know, sounding a little hurt.

"You aren't gonna miss us?!" Tiez barks angrily, wrinkling her nose. "But you said-"

"I'm not leaving" Ashley explains simply, looking out at the ocean. "I'm going to stay here in the Land of Ambience."

Tiez and Aki both pause at this, looking to Ashley with both confusion and disbelief.

"But why?" Tiez asks.

"Because my Clan is here."

"Darling" Aki begins hesitantly, ".....Your Clan may be here, but aren't your family going to be leaving?"

"What?" Ashley asks, her tone sharper than intended. "My Clan is my family."

"......I see" Aki sighs, his sapphire eyes searching Ashley's face. "Darling, I don't mean to assume anything here but......If your Clan is your family, then why don't you seem happy about the decision to stay?"

Here Ashley looks down at Aki, her brows furrowed and her expression somewhat fierce. Aki observes the girl closely, able to see that she isn't actually angry, but rather.........conflicted.

Aki had been keeping a very close eye on Ashley since they had met. Tiez had taken to the girl immediately and wanted to join her pack, but Aki had been cautious. He didn't trust her straight away, like Tiez. He had wanted to see what she was like, see how she treated the Wolves already by her side.

And in keeping an eye on Ashley, Aki had seen how she interacted with the other Leaf Ninja. She seemed to care about them immensely, and they seemed to feel the same way.

Despite the fact that Ashley had been reunited with her Clan, it didn't make sense to Aki that she would choose them over her Leaf Village friends.

Perhaps she felt that there was no choice? Maybe she had felt obligated?

After all, one of them was her sister.

"It's okay Darling" Aki soothes, coming to the correct conclusion on his own. "We'll stay by your side here. Won't we Tiez darling?"

"Can we?" the younger Wolf asks excitedly, her tail beginning to wag.

Seeing the kind smile on Aki's face, and the excited expression on Tiez's, Ashley begins to smile as well, despite how pitiful she feels. She places a hand on each Wolf's head and ruffles their fur, much to Tiez's delight and Aki's dismay.

"Not my fur Darling, please" the Wolf begs, raising one paw to try and fix his messed up fur.

"I look forward to the both of you being by my side" Ashley states quietly. "I'd miss you both a lot if I had to leave."

Tiez and Aki both pause again, watching Ashley carefully, before the two Wolves exchange knowing looks with each other.

Ashley clearly needed to be distracted and cheered up.

"Come on Darling" Aki insists, climbing to his feet and ruffling up his beautiful fur. "Let's not sit around and mope anymore. It's far too hot to be sitting out in the sun like this anyway. Not good for the complexion."

"Yeah, let's go do somethin fun!" Tiez agrees. "Like swimming!"

".....Swimming?" Aki repeats, wrinkling his nose in distaste. "I don't know about that Tiez darling, my fur-"

"Who cares about your stupid fur?" Tiez scoffs, rolling her violet eyes, to which Aki lets out a dramatic gasp.

"Who cares about my fur?" Aki exclaims, horrified and offended by Tiez's cruel words. "I'll have you know that my fur is of the finest pedigree and must be looked after with the utmost care to retain its beauty and lustre. Something as vile as swimming will-"

"Like I said" Tiez interrupts, turning her back on Aki and smirking up at Ashley, "Who cares about all that?"

Ashley can't help giggling to herself at Tiez and Aki's silly argument, something that causes the black and white Wolf's ears to prick up.

"Ah, that's better Darling" the Wolf purrs, helping Ashley to her feet and then gliding his silky body along her hip. "The world is much nicer when you're smiling."

"You're very charming Aki" Ashley informs the Wolf, amused. "It's hard to be sad around you."

"Oh, I know" he smiles, his teeth dazzling Ashley with their shine. "I'm wonderful."

"You're a pain in the ass" Tiez corrects roughly. "Now come on! I want to swim!"

"C'mon boy!" Kiba calls over his shoulder. "I'm starving!"

"Arf!" Akamaru agrees, running after Kiba. There were too many interesting smells in this new Village, and Akamaru wanted to sniff them all before he and the others had to leave!

It was early evening now, and the intense heat of the day had cooled into a much more pleasant temperature. It was still warm, but now a soft breeze blew through the air. The sky was beginning to dim from its brilliant blue, into more of an indigo colour, and you could even see one or two stars already.

"The noodles we had last time were pretty good" Kiba mutters out loud, glancing around as he tries to decide what to eat for dinner. "Maybe we should-"

The Inuzuka pauses, when he spots a familiar blonde up ahead. She stands in front of a small restaurant, seemingly reading from a sign posted on the wall of the building.

"Hey Angel!" Kiba calls before he is able to stop himself.

Kiba hadn't seen Ashley since they had all gone swimming the day before and, after hearing how she had avoided Sasuke, the Inuzuka had been wondering if anything was wrong. He had been keeping an eye out for Ashley all day, but hadn't wanted to go looking for her, just in case she actually was spending time with her Clan.

Ashley pauses at the sound of her name being called, recognising the voice. She had just been reading something that reminded her of Kiba and suddenly, he had appeared right near her.

Ashley hadn't been planning on running into any of her friends, but as she turns her head to see a grinning Kiba walking over to her, she is unable to stop herself from waving and smiling back.

"Haven't seen you all day!" Kiba greets. "You been with your family today?"

"Nope" Ashley says mysteriously, shaking her head. "What're you doing out here by yourself?"

"Me and Akamaru were looking to get dinner" Kiba explains, scooping the puppy up with one arm. "I was gonna try and find that noodle place that we went to last time. What're you doin?"

".....I haven't eaten yet, so I was also looking for somewhere to eat" Ashley answers, averting her eyes as she points to the sign she had been reading. "......This menu says that they make Beef Gristle Stew here."

"Beef Gristle?" Kiba repeats, his eyes lighting up. "Anything with gristle is my favourite!"

"I-I know" Ashley says, feeling a little embarrassed that she remembers this information. ".....Do you want to eat here with me?"

Kiba blinks a few times at this offer. Ashley had seemed a little uncertain when he had called out to her, but now she was asking him if he wanted to eat with her? And she had remembered one of his favourite foods?

"Sure thing" Kiba accepts, happy that he gets to spend some time with Ashley.

Gesturing for Ashley to go in first, Kiba follows the blonde girl inside, before the two are quickly ushered to a table with booth seats. Akamaru stands on the seat with his front paws on the table, tail wagging.

He was looking forward to some Beef Gristle Stew as well!

"Here are your menus" a waiter says, bowing a little as he holds out two cards.

"I don't need one" Kiba grins, looking to Ashley. "I know what I'm getting!"

"Arf arf!" Akamaru agrees, looking at the waiter eagerly.

"I'm getting the same as you" the blonde says, amused by Kiba's excitement. "I want to try the stew as well."

"Can we just order three Beef Gristle Stews right now?" Kiba asks the waiter, the man surprised by their quick decision making.

"Of course" he smiles, folding the menus under his arm as he scribbles something on a small pad of paper. "I'll be back in just a few minutes."

"I know it's kinda early for dinner" Kiba states, leaning back in his chair and folding his arms behind his head, "But I'm starving!"

Ashley leans forwards, resting her elbows on the table and leaning her chin in her hands, eyes hooded.

"How come you and Akamaru were going to eat alone?" Ashley inquires. She knew that Shino was in the hospital, but she'd have expected at least Hinata would get food with Kiba.

"Ah, I was visiting Shino with Hinata and Kurenai Sensei" Kiba explains, shrugging, "But none of them were hungry, so me and Akamaru left."

"Well, I'm glad we ran into each other then" Ashley says, smiling faintly. "Now we both don't have to eat alone."

Ashley watches as slight confusion crosses Kiba's face, before his cheeks turn a light shade of pink. She had initially wanted to avoid her friends, but now that Kiba was here, Ashley found herself wanting to enjoy his company.

After all, she probably didn't have much longer to do so. Not that Kiba needed to know that right now.

"How is Shino by the way?" Ashley wonders, only for Kiba to wave one hand.

"Ah, he's fine" the Inuzuka says dismissively. "He'll be out of the hospital in no time. They're just keeping him for observation since he just woke up."

"...Doesn't he have a broken shoulder and broken ribs?" Ashley questions dryly, one eyebrow raised.

"Yeah, no big deal" Kiba shrugs again, only to laugh and lean forwards, rubbing the back oh his head with one hand. "Nah, he's alright. He's pretty sore, and his arm and chest are all wrapped up, but the medics did a good job. He'll be able to go home soon, but he won't be able to train with us for awhile."

Ashley internally blanches at the fact that Shino will be able to travel soon. It was great that he was awake and feeling better, for sure, but it also meant that the Leaf Ninja would all be leaving soon.

"So how come you're on your own anyway?" Kiba asks innocently, recalling what the others had been talking about earlier that day. "I figured you'd be with your Clan today or somethin."

Keeping an even look on her face, Ashley holds Kiba's eye contact.

"Nope" she says again. "I haven't seen them all day."

"Oh" Kiba blinks. "Well, did you find Naruto and the others? They were looking for you this morning."

"Haven't seen them today either."

".....Sasuke did mention that you totally avoided him this morning" Kiba recalls, smirking at the memory of the annoyed Uchiha's face. "He was pretty ticked off."

"Oh, he noticed?" Ashley asks, sweat dropping. She hadn't meant for him to see her actively trying to get away from him......

"Yep" Kiba chuckles. "What'd he do to deserve that?"

"Ah.....well....." Ashley trails off for a second, before shrugging. "You know what he's like."

"Yep" Kiba says again, deadpanning. "So if you weren't with anyone today, what did you do all day?"

"......I went swimming" Ashley replies. "With Tiez and Aki."

"Oh, those two Wolves that followed us?" Kiba remembers. "Good day for it. It was super hot again."

While Kiba found it a little odd that Ashley had left extra early in the morning, and hadn't hung out with any of her friends or family, he was relieved that she had at least spent the day with those two Wolves. Maybe nothing was wrong with Ashley, and he had just been worried over nothing.

After all, Kiba knew how much Ashley wanted Aki and Tiez to join her pack. Maybe she had been spending time with the two Wolves to try and win them over?

"What did you do today?" Ashley asks, her chin still leaning in her palms. "Aside from visiting Shino."

"Well, even though he was complaining that it was hot, I managed to convince Naruto to spar with me" Kiba responds, pouting slightly, "But then Sakura suggested swimming on the beach, and he wanted to do that instead."

Ashley laughs quietly. That sounded about right.

"So, we spent the morning on the beach" Kiba continues, brightening up at the sound of Ashley laughing. "Then we went to some ramen place for lunch, and Hinata and I went to the hospital after that."

"Sounds fun" Ashley smiles, something that causes Kiba to pause.

There was something about the way Ashley had been watching him the entire time they'd been talking. It was making him feel a little nervous.

She wasn't averting her gaze, and she was talking in a way that seemed a bit softer than usual. Even her gaze wasn't as intimidating as it normally was. She was maintaining eye contact and listening intently. Not to say that she didn't normally do those things but.....this just felt a little different for some reason.

She looked so cute, sitting there with her chin in her hands and the tiniest of smiles on her face.

Both Genin sit in silence, looking at each other, with Kiba growing more and more fidgety by the second. Why was she doing that?!

"Three bowls of Beef Gristle Stew!" a voice announces merrily, causing Kiba to jump. He looks up in alarm, just as the waiter sets a large bowl in front of him, the smell immediately catching Kiba's attention.

He looks down at the bowl, filled to the brim with beef, potatoes, vegetables and best of all, gristle!

Kiba's eyes begin to shine at the sight of the food, consciously having to stop himself from drooling, before he glances up. He sees Ashley staring into her bowl with the same glittering eyes that he had, something that causes the Inuzuka to bark out a laugh.

Akamaru whines loudly, restless and ready to devour the food in the smaller bowl in front of him.

"This looks delicious" Ashley says dreamily, her spoon at the ready.

Ashley, Kiba and Akamaru all eagerly dig into their meal, both Genin raving about how fantastically good the stew tastes.

"It's gonna drive me mad that they don't have this back in the Leaf" Kiba complains. "I'm gonna crave it one day, and I won't be able to eat it."

"Open your own stew shop" Ashley suggests smartly, before shoving another spoonful in her mouth. "Give up being a Ninja and become a stew maker."

"Yeah right" Kiba scoffs, rolling his eyes. "Could you see me wearing an apron and cutting up potatoes every day?"

".....Do you want me to answer that honestly?" Ashley asks teasingly, to which Kiba narrows his eyes.

"Very funny" he says sarcastically. "I don't think I'd be good at anything besides being a Ninja......And don't say that I'm not even good at that, coz I know that's what you were gonna say!"

Ashley bursts out laughing at this, having fully intended to play innocent, had she been able to hold her laughter in. Kiba was right though. She had been about to say that exact thing!

"Yeah see" Kiba says smugly, waving his spoon at Ashley before dropping it into his now empty bowl. "I've been hanging around you too much. You're becoming predictable."

"Oh, am I now?" Ashley asks cheekily. "Well, how's this for predictable? I'm paying for our food today."

"What?" Kiba exclaims. "No way! I'll pay!"

"No" Ashley declines stubbornly. "I'm paying."

"C'mon" Kiba tries to persuade. "I'm at least paying for me and Akamaru."

"I invited you both to eat with me" Ashley reminds Kiba, standing up, "So I'm paying. And besides, you've paid for me before. Consider it me returning the favour."

Not entirely convinced, Kiba leans back in his seat and crosses his arms as Ashley walks away. He would have continued arguing, but it seemed that Ashley was set on paying for him and Akamaru, so Kiba didn't want to push it too much.

It was a nice gesture, and considering he had been more than happy to pay for Ashley's meal in the past, Kiba just had to assume that she felt the same way now.

If Kiba was honest though, he felt happy. Ashley had invited him to dinner and wanted to pay for his meal, they had had a good time.....And not to mention the way she'd been staring at him.

"All paid" Ashley says brightly, stepping back over to the table.

"Arf arf!" Akamaru barks gratefully, earning himself a pat on the head.

"You're very welcome Akamaru" Ashley giggles, looking up as Kiba slides out of the booth and stands up beside her.

"....Thanks for dinner Angel" the Inuzuka says sincerely, the lop sided grin on his face seeming a little self-conscious.

Ashley stares at Kiba with round eyes, before abruptly ducking her head and ushering him out of the restaurant.

"N-No worries Mutt" she says hastily, feeling a little embarrassed.

While Ashley had been sitting across the table from Kiba, she'd felt comfortable enough to watch him. She knew that once he left, she wasn't going to be able to see him again for a long time and so, her usual hesitation to look at him for an extended period of time had suddenly felt a bit insignificant.

She had wanted to look at him, so that she wouldn't forget what he looked like. But seeing him up close like that, with such a cute expression on his face....

Ashley still wasn't ready to handle something like that!

As they step out of the restaurant, Kiba stretches his arms up above his head, glancing down at Ashley as she turns her head and seems to look off into the distance.

"Well, Angel, thanks for-"

"Are you busy right now?" Ashley interrupts, looking up at Kiba from under her lashes, feeling a little shy.

"Am I busy?" Kiba asks, blinking in surprise. "No, not really. Why?"

"Well......" Ashley says slowly, brows furrowing slightly. "While it's still light, I kinda wanted to go somewhere. Do you want to come?"

"Sure, if you want the company" Kiba grins, shrugging one shoulder. "We'd be happy to come."

"Great" Ashley smiles back, her sharp teeth visible. "C'mon, it's gonna take awhile to get there."

Together, Ashley, Kiba and Akamaru walk through the Village, with only one out of three knowing where they're going. Ashley and Kiba talk easily with each other, the blonde's mood having significantly risen since that morning.

It felt nice hanging out with Kiba. It was fun and it was easy. She could be herself, and he never judged.

She was going to miss him when he left.

Ashley ceases in her walking at this thought, her eyes widening. Confused by her sudden stop, Kiba turns back and glances at her, a question mark above his head.

"Are you alri-"

"I know we've just eaten" Ashley says hurriedly, marching past Kiba in a bid to avoid making eye contact, "But do you guys feel up to running? I wanna get there before it gets dark."

"Arf!" Akamaru confirms, bouncing up and down.

"Uh sure?" Kiba agrees, tilting his head to the side. He pats his stomach, a playful look on his face. "We need to work off all that good stew anyway."

"Hn" Ashley smirks. "That too."