Naruto: reborn as an Uzumaki

Kenshin picked up Hana's sleeping form and adjusted her on his shoulder, her soft breaths tickling his neck, he turned to Amaya with a calm smile. "We should probably head back to the palace. The daimyo must be worried by now."

Amaya nodded quietly, her expression a mix of fatigue and lingering emotions. Kenshin then addressed the rest of the group, who had been resting beneath the other tree. "You guys head back to the hotel. I'll take the princesses back to the palace and catch up with you later."

Akane opened her mouth as if to protest, but then thought better of it and looked away, her expression reluctant. Her reaction didn't go unnoticed, earning confused glances from the others. However, they simply nodded, said their goodbyes, and began heading back toward the hotel.

Kira and Kaede, however, remained with Kenshin. Without a word, they fell into step behind him, following as he, Amaya, and Hana made their way toward the palace.

The walk was quiet for a while, the sounds of the bustling city fading as they moved through the streets. Amaya eventually broke the silence, her voice soft.

"Thank you again, Kenshin… I—" She hesitated, struggling to put her thoughts into words. "I'm not… I'm not qualified to be a parent. Even now, I have to depend on you."

Kenshin glanced at her, his expression calm but tinged with amusement. "You're not alone in this, Amaya-sama. I feel responsible for Hana too."

His gaze shifted to Hana's sleeping face, a small smile tugging at his lips as he noticed her drooling slightly on his shoulder. "I know what's wrong with her," he said, his tone quieter, more reflective.

Amaya looked at him curiously, waiting for him to continue.

"Hana's just now starting to feel the emptiness left by her father's absence. Children often have delayed reactions to things like this." Kenshin explained, his voice steady. "And since you mentioned that her mother passed away when she was only one… she never got the chance to know what it feels like to have a mother.

Her anchor has always been her father. Without him, she's unconsciously seeking someone else to fill that role.

Right now, she's gravitating toward me because… I'm the one who saved her from that monster. And I'm the one who's been here, making her feel safe and happy."

Amaya's gaze dropped to the ground as she absorbed his words. Kenshin's voice softened further. "But that doesn't mean you don't have a role to play. You can still be the mother she never had. Maybe… take a few pointers from me," he added with a light chuckle, hoping to ease the tension.

Amaya nodded silently, her mind heavy with thoughts. After a few more moments, she spoke again, this time with her usual playful tone. "So… what would you have done if I didn't look away when you leaned in earlier? What if I decided to kiss you? Would you have accepted my marriage proposal then?"

Kenshin deadpanned at her, his expression exasperated. "I'm 15. You're 24. That's nearly a decade apart, and we barely know each other. Of course, I would've refused."

Amaya blinked at his bluntness, but before she could respond, Kenshin's lips curled into a teasing smile. "Though… I wouldn't mind a quick kiss."

Behind him, both Kira and Kaede cleared their throats loudly, the sound cutting through the air like a warning. Kenshin chuckled, raising a hand as if to calm them. "Relax, I'm joking."

Kira rolled her eyes, though a small smirk tugged at her lips. Kaede, however, remained silent, her expression unreadable. As they continued walking, Kaede's mind raced. 'Why did I object?' she wondered.

'Kira, I understand. She doesn't want him causing more tension with his sister because of that woman. But me… why did I do it?' The conflicting thoughts swirled in her head, and she felt suffocated by them.

Finally, Kaede broke the silence. Her tone was uncharacteristically quiet, almost hesitant. "Master… can you send me back to the Shikkotsu Forest?" She hesitated, her gaze dropping. "I… I need some fresh air. The air here… it doesn't suit me."

Kenshin glanced at her, his brow furrowing slightly. Before he could say anything, Kira spoke to him telepathically. 'She's struggling, Master. Her emotions are all over the place. It's probably best to let her rest for a while. But… you'll need to talk to her later. If you don't, the effects of Kotoamatsukami might weaken even more.'

Kenshin sighed quietly, nodding in agreement. "Alright," he said, looking at Kaede. "I'll send you back."

He stopped walking, shifting Hana slightly so he could free one hand. With a quick series of hand seals, Kaede disappeared in a soft puff of smoke. Kira lingered a moment longer, giving Kenshin a glance before following Kaede back.

As Kenshin resumed his walk with Amaya, his thoughts drifted to Kaede. 'Should I have Kira cast Kotoamatsukami on her again?' he wondered. But even as the thought crossed his mind, a pang of guilt struck him.

The idea felt… wrong. As though it would be a betrayal of the bond he'd begun to build with her—even if that bond was based on something that wasn't even her own.

Pushing the thought aside for now, Kenshin focused on the task at hand. He would deal with Kaede later. For now, his priority was getting Amaya and Hana safely back.

Kenshin carried Hana through the grand gates of the palace, with Amaya walking beside him. A guard stationed there straightened his posture as they approached, bowing respectfully to Amaya.

"Amaya-sama," the guard greeted. "The daimyo is anxiously awaiting your return. He wishes to meet the Shinobi his niece feels so safe with."

Amaya rolled her eyes, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. She glanced at Kenshin, who shrugged casually. "It's not a problem," he said lightly. "Let's not keep him waiting."

They were promptly escorted through the grand halls of the palace, their footsteps echoing softly against the marble floors.

When they reached the throne hall, the daimyo's pacing figure came into view. His expression was tight with worry, and the moment he saw Amaya, his face lit up with relief.

"Amaya!" he exclaimed, rushing forward and wrapping her in a tight embrace.

Amaya returned the hug with a small smile. "I told you I'd be fine, uncle."

The daimyo's gaze shifted to Kenshin, who had carefully handed Hana off to Amaya and knelt respectfully before him. The daimyo's eyes lingered on Kenshin's striking red hair before narrowing slightly in thought.

"I recognize that unusual red hair," he said, his tone curious. "But… your presence feels different from our previous meeting. It was much more ordinary back then."

Kenshin met the daimyo's gaze calmly. "It is due to my equipment, daimyo-sama," he explained respectfully. "I cannot share the specific details, as it pertains to my Uzumaki clan's secrets, but my presence was suppressed intentionally."

The daimyo nodded, seemingly satisfied with the answer. "I see. In that case, you are dismissed. My niece will depart for the Land of Grass tomorrow morning. She wishes to address the chaos there, at least to some extent, before the Rinne Festival."

Kenshin nodded, bowing slightly. "I understand, daimyo-sama. May I request a few moments with Amaya-sama and Hana-sama before I take my leave? I wish to bid them farewell."

The daimyo considered the request briefly before nodding. "Very well. Amaya, you may see him off if you wish."

With that, Kenshin followed Amaya back out of the palace, Hana still nestled in her arms. Once they reached the gates, Amaya gently shook Hana awake. "Hana," she said softly, "your onii-chan is leaving. Say goodbye."

Hana's eyes fluttered open, and she glanced around sleepily before focusing on Kenshin. She immediately reached out to him, and Kenshin smiled, taking her into his arms once more.

He kissed her forehead lightly, his voice gentle but firm. "Hana-chan, you're going back to the Land of Grass tomorrow. You need to be good for your mama, okay? I'll come visit you after the festival. Every weekend.

But you have to promise to be a good girl and not make your mama worry. She was really worried these past few days because you were sad."

Hana nodded solemnly, her small arms wrapping tightly around his neck in a heartfelt hug. "Hana will be good, onii-chan. I promise."

Satisfied, Kenshin set her down carefully and straightened, meeting Amaya's gaze. She already had her fist extended, her playful smirk firmly in place. Kenshin chuckled, bumping her fist with his own.

"Be safe," Amaya said, her tone half teasing but with an underlying sincerity.

"I will," Kenshin replied, his lips curling into a mischievous grin. "You should be careful too. No sneaking out of the palace from now on."

Amaya groaned, rolling her eyes. "I'll try to resist the temptation. But for now, we'll be in the Hidden Grass Village. The palace is still rubble, thanks to someone."

Kenshin smirked but said nothing.

"I've already submitted a list of Shinobi we'll need to rebuild the Land of Grass and the Hidden Grass Village after the festival to the Hokage," Amaya continued. "You could come alongside them. I'm sure Hana will appreciate it."

Kenshin nodded, his smile softening. "I'll keep that in mind. Take care, Amaya-sama. And you too, Hana-chan."

As he turned and walked away, the cool night air enveloped him. Behind him, Amaya and Hana stood by the gates, watching until he disappeared into the distance.

Kenshin wandered down the busy streets towards the hotel, his attention drawn to a shop with a small display window. A brown jacket with a sleek, modern design caught his eye. Something about it struck a chord with him—it was stylish yet understated, and he could imagine himself wearing it.

He rarely indulged himself in personal purchases, but tonight felt different. He could afford it, and after everything that had happened, he figured he deserved a small treat.

Stepping inside the shop, Kenshin approached the counter and asked about the jacket. The shopkeeper smiled, mentioning that it was one of the last two in stock. That sealed the deal for him.

After paying, he left the shop with the jacket neatly packed in a bag, feeling oddly content. As he continued his walk to the hotel, his thoughts wandered back to his teammates.

When Kenshin arrived at the boys' suite, he opened the door to find not just the boys—Shikamaru, Choji, and Lee—but the girls as well: Ino, Hinata, Tenten, Maki, and Akane.

They were seated in the living room, playing cards and chatting about what to do the next day. On one of the couches, Keita, was fast asleep, his small frame curled up with a blanket over him.

Kenshin's gaze fell on Maki, who was leaning over the table, laughing at something Akane said. His mind wandered to the jacket he had just bought. He could clearly imagine Maki wearing it; the color and style would suit her perfectly.

Smiling softly to himself, he decided then and there that he would give it to her as a gift during the Rinne Festival. It was a spontaneous thought, but it felt right.

He joined them at the table, taking a seat beside Shikamaru and picking up a hand of cards. The game went on with lighthearted banter and teasing until Ino, who had been uncharacteristically quiet, hesitated before clearing her throat.

"Guys, I need to tell you something," she started, her voice uncertain.

The group fell silent, looking at her curiously.

"This hotel…" Ino trailed off before continuing, "it has mixed bathing."

Her words hung in the air for a moment as everyone processed what she'd just said.

"Wait," Shikamaru said, narrowing his eyes. "What do you mean, mixed bathing?"

"There's no separate bathhouse for men and women," Ino clarified, her expression apologetic. "It's all together. And this area doesn't have any public bathhouses because it's a tourist district. All the hotels have their own bathhouse."

The group stared at her in stunned silence. Finally, Kenshin spoke up, breaking the tension.

"Why don't we just go in at different times?" he suggested.

Ino shook her head. "That'd take too long. There are twelve of us, and the baths aren't open all night."

Choji sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "That's…awkward."

Lee, ever the optimist, grinned. "But it's nothing we can't handle, right?"

Shikamaru groaned, muttering, "What a drag."

Kenshin folded his arms, nodding thoughtfully. "If that's the case, we'll have to go in together. It's the safest option. Otherwise, there's a chance someone else might join the girls, and that'd be far worse than us."

The other boys nodded in agreement. "Better us than strangers," Choji said, and Shikamaru begrudgingly added, "Makes sense."

Akane crossed her arms, fixing the boys with a stern glare. "Fine, but let me make one thing clear: if any of you dare to stare, I'll shock you."

All three boys immediately raised their hands in surrender, shaking their heads vigorously.

"We wouldn't dare," Shikamaru said quickly.

"Not even a glance!" Lee added, his tone resolute.

"Promise!" Choji said, looking genuinely nervous.

Before the discussion could continue, there was a knock at the door. Suu's voice called out, "Dinner's ready! Come down to the restaurant."

The group set their cards down, stretching after the long game. Maki walked over to Keita, shaking him awake. The boy stirred groggily before sitting up, rubbing his eyes. Together, they stepped into the hallway, where Kana, Yukari, and Suu were waiting for them.

Suu led the way down to the restaurant, where a large table had been reserved for their group. The meal was lively, with laughter and chatter filling the air as they enjoyed the delicious food. After dinner, they returned to their floor and prepared for the bathhouse.

As they entered the bathhouse area, they were relieved to see separate sections for men and women to change out of their clothes.

The boys and girls exchanged a brief glance before heading into their respective areas. The bath itself, however, would be shared.

Kenshin sighed, glancing at the boys. "This is going to be interesting."

Shikamaru groaned again. "Interesting isn't the word I'd use."

Lee, ever cheerful, gave Kenshin a thumbs-up. "We'll manage! It's nothing our youthful spirits can't handle!"

Once the boys finished changing, Kenshin held up a hand, signaling them to wait. He peeked into the bathhouse, taking in the sight of the large pool that resembled a natural hot spring. The steamy atmosphere made it feel even more relaxing.

"Oi, is anyone in there yet?" Kenshin called out.

Kana's voice responded first. "We're here."

Kenshin nodded, keeping his gaze directed toward the entrance rather than inside. "You all should go in first and take the far end of the bathhouse. We'll use the area closer to the entrance. That way, we'll be the first ones out."

Kana turned to the others. "Is that okay with everyone?"

They all agreed, and Kana relayed the confirmation back to Kenshin. He nodded and turned to the boys, who gave him nods of approval in return.

Once the ladies had changed into towels and entered the bathhouse. Kana remained completely unaffected, entering the water with her usual reluctance.

Akane, while not thrilled, decided to just put up with it. Suu and Ino weren't too fazed either, and Tenten, though slightly flustered, kept her composure.

Maki, on the other hand, kept glancing back at the entrance, but she quickly dismissed her thoughts. The real struggle, however, was with Yukari and Hinata, who both seemed as though they wanted to sink into the water and disappear. Kana placed a reassuring hand on Yukari's shoulder, while Ino patted Hinata's back, helping them both calm down.

Deciding to skip the usual pre-bath rinsing for tonight, they headed straight for the pool. Once they were settled, Kana called out, "You can come in now, boys."

Kenshin peeked his head out, signaling the boys. "Let's go."

As expected, Keita rushed forward first, bolting towards the pool and jumping in with a loud splash. Water droplets flew everywhere as he resurfaced with a laugh. The other boys followed at a more measured pace, stepping into the pool and easing themselves into the warm water.

Naturally, there was some curiosity between both parties, and subtle (and not-so-subtle) glances were exchanged. Kenshin, however, remained completely unfazed, his expression unreadable.

As he relaxed, his eyes drifted across the pool, noting how Yukari and Hinata still looked mortified. He smirked slightly. Completely in line with their personalities.

However, he suddenly felt an intense gaze on him. Looking up, he locked eyes with Akane, whose expression immediately turned sharp. Her Sharingan spun to life, confusing the others, before she dipped her hand into the water and discharged a precise amount of lightning chakra.

Before Kenshin could react, a sharp jolt ran through his body. His muscles tensed momentarily before the sensation passed.

Lee, ever impressed by skill, exclaimed, "Akane-san! That chakra control is amazing!"

Shikamaru sighed, shaking his head. "Troublesome."

Choji shuddered. "I wouldn't survive that."

Akane narrowed her eyes at Kenshin. "Be more mindful."

Kenshin raised an eyebrow at her. "What, am I supposed to keep my eyes shut the whole time?" He shrugged and leaned back against the edge of the bath.

Akane, after confirming that he wasn't going to push his luck, deactivated her Sharingan and returned to chatting with Maki.

Meanwhile, on Kenshin's side, Choji glanced at him. "You okay?"

Kenshin smirked. "That? Barely a tickle. I've been through much, much worse."

Then, a mischievous glint flashed in his eyes. He turned to the boys. "I'm gonna do something fun to my dear sister."

Shikamaru, Choji, and Lee exchanged confused glances before looking over at Akane, who was still chatting with Maki.

Kenshin simply grinned. "Excuse me."

Without another word, he dipped below the surface, activating Sea Snake—his specialized Hidden Rain jutsu that allowed him to move undetectably underwater at supersonic speeds. The already warm water did little to slow him down as he darted across the pool like a silent predator.

With perfect precision, he reached Akane's side and grabbed her ankles. Then, in one swift motion, he yanked her down beneath the water.

Barely a ripple disturbed the surface.

It all happened so fast that, for a moment, no one even noticed anything was wrong—until Akane suddenly vanished.

Akane resurfaced with a sharp gasp, coughing as she wiped water from her face. The others turned toward her in confusion and concern.

"Akane-chan, are you okay?" Kana asked, stepping forward slightly.

Akane took a deep breath before glaring over at the boys' side, her crimson Sharingan flaring to life. She scanned the water, noticing a faint residual trail of water chakra, leading up to Kenshin. Her jaw tightened as she clenched her fists. "That brat..."

Meanwhile, Kenshin was already back on his side, completely dry, smirking at the rest of the boys with a triumphant look.

Shikamaru, who had observed the whole thing with mild curiosity, finally asked, "How the hell did you do that?"

Kenshin, still looking smug, leaned back against the edge. "It's an A-rank jutsu from the Hidden Rain," he said. "Sea Snake. It's actually the only high-level water release jutsu I know." He shrugged. "Water isn't my natural affinity, but this one is useful for infiltration and escaping, so I took the time to master it."

Akane's glare darkened. "You're going to pay for that."

Kenshin, however, barely acknowledged her threat. Instead, he gave her a playful wink before turning back to his group, acting as if nothing had happened.

As everyone finally settled into the bath, Keita began swimming excitedly, darting back and forth between both groups, laughing as he splashed around. The relaxing atmosphere returned, and for the moment, all was peaceful.

But eventually, the bath had to come to an end.

The boys got up first, stretching as they prepared to leave. As Kenshin stepped out of the water, Kana did the same—without a second thought.

The problem? She didn't wrap her towel.

For a brief moment, instinct kicked in, and the boys' heads almost turned back.

But Kenshin reacted instantly. "Nope! Get out, all of you. Right now!"

With a single push, he shoved the boys forward, forcing them out of the bathhouse and into the changing area. "Mom, be more careful!"

Kana, completely unbothered, chuckled lightly. "Oh dear, my mistake." She grabbed her towel and wrapped it around herself casually before stepping out.

The rest of the women followed suit, finishing up and making their way out of the bathhouse.

As everyone headed back to their suites, Kenshin was about to step into his room when suddenly—

A firm grip locked around his arm.

"Come with me."

Akane's voice was cold, unamused.

Kenshin blinked as he found himself being dragged toward the ladies' suite.

The rest of the boys stood there, watching the scene unfold.

Choji let out a sigh. "So long, soldier."

Shikamaru smirked, "He's dead."

While Lee gave Kenshin a respectful nod, as if saluting his courage.

On the ladies' side, Maki leaned in with a teasing smile. "Next time, you should probably stay like an obedient little brother."

Kenshin barely had time to respond before Akane shoved him into her room, slammed the door behind them, and locked it.

Kenshin instinctively raised his hands in surrender, backing up slightly. "Alright, alright, I was just goofing around. It was a joke." His tone was lighthearted, though he knew Akane wasn't one to let things slide so easily.

Akane narrowed her eyes, stepping closer until she was right in front of him. She held his gaze, and then, without warning, she grabbed his collar and pulled him down into a fiery, forceful kiss.

Kenshin didn't hesitate. He let Akane take control, feeling the frustration behind her kiss. He responded in kind, matching her passion, allowing her to vent her irritation through the fierce kiss.

When she finally pulled away, breathless, she kept her forehead pressed against his. "Kenshin," she murmured, her voice softer now. "The Land of Grass's daimyo… Amaya. Why are you so comfortable with her? Why does she and her daughter trust you so much?"

Kenshin smiled slightly, cupping her face with both hands before leaning in to place a much gentler kiss on her lips. This time, it was slow, affectionate—reassuring.

As he pulled back, he wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close. "During my classified mission to the Land of Grass, I saved them," he admitted, his voice quiet but firm.

"Amaya… she's different from the usual rulers. She's independent. She didn't want me treating her like some noble, like someone above me. She wanted me to treat her like a normal woman, a friend."

Akane listened intently, her hands still resting on his chest.

"As for her daughter, Hana…" Kenshin exhaled softly. "Her father was the leader of the Hidden Grass Village. He wanted power so badly that he even tried to kill his own child to get it. Hana doesn't know the truth, only that a 'monster' tried to take her life."

His expression darkened for a brief moment before softening again. "I was the one who saved her. She remembers that. And now, she sees me as the father-figure she lost, even if she doesn't realize why she feels that way."

Akane nodded slowly, absorbing everything. It made sense now.

She leaned in again, her lips capturing his in another deep kiss. This one wasn't out of frustration but something much more intimate—trust, understanding.

When she pulled back, a small, knowing smile played on her lips. "Just never put anyone else before me," she whispered. "No matter what."

Kenshin chuckled, nodding without hesitation. "Never."

Akane smirked, resting against his chest for a while before finally pulling away. "You should probably head back before the boys hold a funeral service for you."

Kenshin let out a low laugh. "Yeah, I can imagine Choji writing my eulogy already."

Before turning to leave, he pressed a quick peck to her forehead, then unlocked the door—

Only to find the rest of the girls waiting just outside, their curiosity plain on their faces.

Suu raised an eyebrow. Ino smirked knowingly. Tenten was trying not to smirk. Kana had a neutral expression, though her eyes twinkled with amusement. Maki stood with her arms crossed, giving him a teasing look.

And Yukari, still shy, was clearly intrigued. Only Hinata seemed actually concerned about him, as expected.

Kenshin sighed, not bothering to say a word. He simply walked past them, heading straight for the boys' suite.

Kenshin walked back into the boys' suite, finding them all waiting with expectant looks.

Shikamaru, leaning against the wall, raised an eyebrow. "Huh. You're alive."

Choji let out a mock sigh of relief. "And here I thought we'd have to prepare a farewell feast."

Lee, arms crossed, nodded seriously. "You must have immense endurance to survive Akane-san's wrath. I myself could not imagine it."

Kenshin smirked, sitting down on the couch with a relaxed posture. "My sister isn't as angry as you guys imagine. She was just a little frustrated, that's all."

The others exchanged glances before nodding in understanding.

After a moment, Choji spoke up. "You know, it's kinda crazy how close you two have gotten. I mean, it hasn't even been that long since your mom adopted her."

Kenshin's expression softened, his usual smirk replaced by something more genuine. "Yeah… but she's been really open with me. Honestly, if things keep going like this… I could probably fall for her."

The room fell silent for a second before Shikamaru chuckled. "Wouldn't be half bad. You two would make a solid couple."

Choji smirked. "Please, according to Ino, you already act like a couple sometimes. But maybe wait a few months before trying anything."

Kenshin shrugged, his smile never fading. "All I want is the best for my family. No matter what."

Everyone nodded, their expressions softening.

After some more casual conversation, they all decided to turn in for the night. As the others began heading to their rooms, Kenshin suddenly spoke up.

"Before you guys head off—there's something I need to do," he said, standing up. "I have to go to the forest where my summons are from. One of them is having… personal issues. So I might not be back for the night. If Akane asks, just tell her that I went to the forest to meet with my summons."

Shikamaru gave him a curious look but nodded. "Got it."

The others murmured their agreement before heading off to their rooms.

Once alone, Kenshin closed his eyes, reaching out telepathically. 'Kira, is Kaede okay now?'

Kira's voice came through immediately, laced with concern. 'She's been extremely quiet. I can sense all sorts of conflicting emotions from her. You should probably get over here.'

Kenshin frowned slightly. 'I was planning to. Just making sure she's not completely out of control.'

There was a brief pause before Kira hesitated. 'Master… maybe it's best if I use Kotoamatsukami on her.'

Kenshin's jaw tightened. 'No. I'd feel guilty if we did that to her.' His voice was firm, resolute. 'Whatever the circumstances might have been, Kaede is family now. I'll fix this, but without any trickery.'

Kira sighed through the link. 'Alright. Just hurry up, okay?'

Kenshin opened his eyes and stood, forming the hand seals for the Reverse Summoning Jutsu. In an instant, he vanished from the suite—

—And reappeared inside Kira's room in Shikkotsu Forest.

Kira stood in the middle of the room, her cat-like ears twitching as she sensed his arrival. Her piercing golden-green eyes met his as she folded her arms. "She's on the roof."

Kenshin nodded, his expression serious. "Alright."

Kira turned to lead the way, walking out of the room and guiding him through the mansion's quiet halls. When they reached the exit that led to the rooftop, she stopped, gesturing toward the door. "I'll wait here. You handle this."

Kenshin took a breath before stepping through the door, onto the mansion's roof.

The cool night air greeted him, along with the soft glow of the moon above.

Kaede sat at the edge of the roof, her black hair cascading over her shoulders, her bright red eyes fixed on the distant horizon. She didn't acknowledge his presence immediately, her fingers idly brushing against the tiles.

Kenshin took a step closer. "Kaede."

She didn't turn. But he could feel it—the storm of emotions swirling inside her.

Kenshin walked closer, his footsteps light against the rooftop tiles, before settling down beside Kaede. The night air was cool, carrying the faint sounds of the forest below.

Kaede, her gaze fixed on the distance, spoke softly. "Aren't you supposed to be with your family?"

Kenshin smiled. "I am."

Kaede let out a disappointed sigh and finally turned to look at him. "No, you're not. The one in front of me… is a clone."

Kenshin chuckled, taking her hand gently. "Extend your claw."

Kaede hesitated for a moment before obeying, her sharp claw sliding out. Kenshin took her hand and guided it to his cheek, pressing it against his skin until a single drop of blood beaded against the surface.

Kaede's eyes widened, her brows furrowing in confusion. "Master…?"

Kenshin's smirk softened into something more genuine. "I told you. I am with my family."

Kaede quickly looked away, as if trying to hide something—embarrassment, shame, or maybe something she didn't fully understand herself. But before she could pull her hand back, Kenshin held it firmly.

"Talk to me," he said, his voice gentle but unwavering.

A silence stretched between them. The wind whispered against their skin. Then, Kaede finally spoke.

"I have never, once, apologized to anyone," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "But today… for the first time in my eons of living… I apologized."

"To you."

Kenshin smiled. "Maybe that's a good thing." He squeezed her hand lightly. "It's a sign of trust. A sign of how deep our bond is."

Kaede didn't respond, and Kenshin didn't press her. He simply sat there, beside her, under the quiet moonlit sky.

Then, after what felt like an eternity, Kaede turned to face him. She took his hand, guiding it up to her throat, placing it there with deliberate intent.

Her eyes were unwavering as she asked, "Are you stronger than me?"

Kenshin blinked. "What?"

Kaede's voice didn't waver. "Can you kill me?"

Kenshin stared at her, his mind momentarily blank.

She continued, her voice low. "I cannot lower my head to someone weaker than me."

His silence seemed to disappoint her. Kaede's expression flickered—expecting an answer that never came—and she released his hand.

But Kenshin didn't remove it.

Instead, his fingers curled, gripping her throat tightly.

In one swift motion, he pulled her down to his level, forcing her to face him.

Kaede's breath hitched in shock, her red eyes locked onto his.

Kenshin's Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan glowed ominously in the night.

"Kaede. The way you're saying this…" his voice was low, dangerous. "It makes you look pathetic."

Kaede's lips parted slightly, stunned.

"'Can you kill me?', 'Can you defeat me?'" Kenshin scoffed. "What kind of dumbass question is that?"

His fingers tightened around her throat—just enough to remind her who he was. Kaede couldn't breathe, his vice-like grip pinning her in place.

"I'll say this right here, right now," Kenshin continued, his voice unwavering. "I will kill you, Kaede. Soon."

Kaede's pupils dilated.

He wasn't done.

"Because I promised myself… from the moment I was born in this world… that I would always protect my family. And I always have."

His grip didn't falter as his voice grew firmer.

"My only failure was my father. But that wasn't in my hands. Everything else? I've protected. Always."

His thumb brushed against her throat, his voice dropping into something almost intimate.

"And you, Kaede… you are family. I will, most definitely, kill you. Because that will be my way of protecting you."

Kaede's entire body flushed a deep, burning red.

Her heart pounded wildly in her chest, her breath coming out in uneven gasps—not because he was gripping her throat, but because she felt something overwhelming wash over her.

His intense gaze.

His burning words.

His absolute authority over her.

And the loyalty she felt toward him, undeniable and unwavering, clashing with her pride.

It must be—

Love.

Yes. Kaede must be in love.

Kenshin loosened his grip, pulling back slightly.

Kaede inhaled sharply, gasping for air—but her expression wasn't of fear.

Her bright red eyes glistened, pleading, full of emotions she didn't fully understand.

And Kenshin—

His breath hitched.

Those desperate eyes.

That deep blush on her cheeks.

Her natural, undeniable charm.

It was… irresistible.

A brief moment of hesitation flickered in his mind—Akane. Would she—?

But—

He couldn't hold back.

His hand slid up to cup Kaede's face as he leaned in, capturing her lips in a fiery, desperate kiss.

Kaede's body shuddered at the contact. She let out a soft, surprised sound, before melting into him entirely.

Her hands grasped onto his cloak, her eyes welling up, unable to contain the flood of emotions surging through her.

Kenshin could feel it—her devotion, her absolute submission, her raw, unfiltered emotions crashing against him.

And in this moment, he didn't resist.

Because tonight—

She was his.

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Once again, thank you everyone for your continued support and power stones. And as always, please give me your power stones and comment your opinions. They make a big difference and motivate me to write more.