Chapter 2: Chapter 2: A Mother's Embrace
In the midst of a desolate, snow-covered mountain, a majestic castle stood tall and solitary, like a vigilant guardian amidst the barren landscape. The castle's windows emitted a warm, inviting glow that illuminated the frozen terrain, casting an otherworldly light. Its presence carried an air of fascination and enigma, a symbol of civilization amid the lifeless surroundings.
Within the intricate maze of corridors that comprised the castle, there existed a room that held the essence of a tender moment. Two ethereal women graced the chamber, their very presence emanating elegance and wisdom. The younger figure, peacefully lost in slumber, lay upon a grand bed, while the elder woman, Kaguya Otsutsuki, held her arm with utmost tenderness. Kaguya's gaze portrayed a blend of affection and melancholy, her eyes glistening with unspoken sentiments. In this room suffused with a soft, comforting radiance, it was evident that Kaguya harbored deep care and concern for her younger daughter, striving to offer solace in every way possible.
Kaguya Otsutsuki, an extraterrestrial being in this realm of Shinobi, bore the weight of her failed mission and the constant fear of the consequences that defying her clan's rules might bring upon her family. Each day was a torment, haunted by the dread of her clan's retribution and the potential dangers they faced.
Today marked one of the darkest moments for Kaguya. As was her routine, she toiled tirelessly to forge a mindless army to safeguard her loved ones, but amidst her efforts, she sensed an overwhelming surge of chakra emanating from her youngest daughter. Though her heart carried a tinge of disappointment that her sons did not possess the same potential, Kaguya cherished her daughter and believed she was destined to surpass her.
In the midst of the serene and icy landscape that enveloped the castle, Kaguya Otsutsuki carried a heavy burden within her heart. Her mission's shortcomings and her rebellion against her clan's demands fueled her inner conflict and apprehension. Despite the fears that plagued her, her unwavering devotion to her family remained resolute. The castle itself, shrouded in mystery and enigma, reflected the intricate nature of her life, serving as a symbol of the sacrifices she had made and the secrets she held close.
As Kaguya witnessed the rapid depletion of Yukari's chakra, panic surged within her like a torrential wave. Without hesitation, she opened a portal, transporting them back to their house in an instant. What she beheld was a devastating sight, the aftermath of her daughter's unleashed power. The scattered corpses and the desolation surrounding them paled in comparison to her concern for Yukari's well-being. The indifferently regarded carnage held no place in her heart as she focused solely on her daughter's vulnerability.
Floating toward Yukari, Kaguya called out her name, but there was no response. Fear gripped her as she swiftly enveloped her daughter in a protective embrace, unwilling to let her slip away. In that moment, Kaguya realized the depth of her love for Yukari and vowed to be her eternal shield, no matter the trials they faced. Gratitude swelled within her for this precious moment and a fervent hope blossomed, praying they would never have to endure such harrowing circumstances again.
But cries echoed from behind, drawing Kaguya's attention. Her sons stood there, faces etched with terror. Seeking to calm their fears, she assured them that everything was under control, shielding them from the truth of Yukari's involvement. Deep down, Kaguya knew that despite their differences and the times they prioritized their human friends over her daughter, Yukari still cared for her brothers. She concealed her daughter's action, for she understood the importance of their perception and the fragile balance of their familial bond.
Taking a calculated risk, Kaguya disclosed her plan to take Yukari to her own dimension temporarily, assuring her sons that she would return. With a flick of her wrist, a portal materialized, revealing a grand corridor lined with human-like puppets on each side. Firmly instructing the puppets to clean up the remains, rebuild their shattered home, and meet any demands her sons might have, Kaguya placed her trust in them to restore order.
With utmost care, Kaguya carried Yukari to her bedroom, her heart brimming with concern and love for her daughter. She gently laid Yukari on the bed, her eyes shining with the power of her Byakugan. As Kaguya examined her daughter's body, a swell of pride overcame her. Concentrated on Yukari's palms were the unmistakable signs of the Rinnegan—the emblem of their extraordinary lineage. In that profound moment, a glimmer of hope illuminated their path, as Kaguya recognized the immense potential that resided within her daughter. She understood that Yukari's newfound abilities would be invaluable in the upcoming battles, and she was determined to train and guide her along this fated journey. However, before anything else, she needed to reveal the truth to Yukari once she woke.
With a tender smile, Kaguya settled herself beside Yukari on the bed, cherishing the warmth of their connection. Aware of her daughter's fondness, she decided to lie down beside her, their bodies entwined as they awaited the dawning of a new day. Kaguya lovingly cradled Yukari's head against her bosom, her gentle fingers caressing her daughter's soft locks. Time seemed to stand still as they embraced, a serene moment shared between mother and daughter, enveloped in a tranquil embrace.
As Yukari's eyes fluttered open, her face bloomed with a radiant smile, capturing the essence of her joy as she looked up at her mother. In that profound instant, she felt enveloped by a sense of security, adored and cherished within the comforting confines of her mother's love. Together, they remained nestled in the bed, savoring the precious moments that passed, relishing the tranquility of their togetherness.
Breaking the serene stillness, Kaguya's voice resonated with genuine concern, disrupting the tranquility but brimming with love. "Are you alright, my dear? Are you injured anywhere?" she inquired, pouring her affection into every word. Yukari's smile broadened, a reflection of the love and reassurance that coursed through her being. "I'm completely fine, Mom," she responded, her voice brimming with gratitude. "Thank you for asking. Right now, all I desire is to remain here with you a little while longer." And so, they lingered, savoring the blissful simplicity of their shared embrace, cherishing the tranquility that enveloped them.
A shadow of sadness swept across Yukari's countenance as she recounted the destruction that had befallen their once-cherished home. Her voice quivered with the weight of her emotions, carrying the sorrow that filled her heart. "Our home has been reduced to ruins, Mom," she mourned, her words laced with grief. "All my cherished memories and books, gone. I felt such anger hearing them label you as a witch. Am I a monstrous being, Mommy?"
Kaguya's heart constricted at her daughter's lament, witnessing the innocence tainted by the world's ignorance. Tenderly, she cradled Yukari's face in her hands, her eyes brimming with unwavering love and understanding. "No, my dear," she whispered, her voice conveying the steadfast devotion of a mother. "You are not a monster. People often fear what they fail to comprehend. Before your birth, I held love for the inhabitants of this planet. I longed to protect them. However, in the end, the person I believed to love betrayed me. Even someone I considered a close friend perished because of that man."
Confusion flickered within Yukari's eyes as she absorbed her mother's words. "Is that person my father, Mom?" she inquired, her voice tinged with curiosity. Kaguya's gaze turned sorrowful, and with a nod, she confirmed Yukari's suspicion. Overwhelmed with emotions, Yukari professed her love for her mother, disregarding the absence of her father. They embraced tightly, and Yukari contemplated the betrayal of her father, searching for answers in the depths of her thoughts.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone