Chương 40: Chapter Forty: Yoshino I

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October 16th, Year 72, Konohagakure

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"KURO!! ARE YOU STILL SLEEPING? DID YOU FORGET YOU WERE SUPP—" My voice cut off abruptly as I flung open the door to Kuro's room, only to find the futon neatly arranged and no Kuro in sight.

Well, that was unexpected.

Frowning slightly, I made my way to the next room and knelt down beside my youngest. "Get up, Shika! It's already 11 AM! Just because it's the weekend doesn't mean you get to sleep until noon!" I tugged his blanket away, unceremoniously dumping him onto the floor. He groaned dramatically, rubbing his eyes as he yawned.

"Mom! Can't you wake me up more gently? That hurt! And it's not even 11 yet—you lied! Give me back my four minutes of sleep!" he complained indignantly.

My eyebrow twitched as a vein in my forehead throbbed. I plastered on a sweet smile. "Oh, really? Care to repeat that, sweetheart?"

Shika froze. He knew that tone meant trouble. Standing up straight like a soldier, he wisely decided to hold his tongue. Good boy.

"That's what I thought. Now, do you know where your brother is?"

He gave me a flat look. "Mom, I was asleep until you woke me. How in the world would I know where Kuro is?"

Such a smart mouth for such a young age. He gets that from Shikaku, I swear. Huffing in annoyance, I waved off his attitude. "Fine, but you two have been spending a lot of time together since he got back. Surely you've got some idea? You're so cute when you're with him, always following him around like a little shadow."

Shika's face turned beet red. "Don't say that! I'm not cute!" he protested, stomping his foot. "And he's probably just napping somewhere else so you wouldn't wake him up and ruin his beauty sleep, lucky duck," he muttered under his breath.

I chuckled at his antics and sent him off to wash up and have breakfast. Meanwhile, I decided to head out to the market. Kuro was leaving in a few days, and I wanted to make sure he was eating well while he was still here.

...

Shopping always puts me in a good mood. The vendors were as kind as ever—being part of a well-respected clan has its perks.

And everywhere I went, I heard the same thing.

"Ah, Yoshino-san, Kuro's back, isn't he? Such a hardworking young man, always helping out wherever he can."

"My Kuro? Hardworking?" I nearly laughed aloud. But their words warmed my heart. Despite his constant grumbling and laziness, Kuro was loved by so many people.

If only he weren't so lazy, he'd probably be adored by the whole village.

...

On my way home, I ran into Kushina. As always, we quickly fell into conversation—she's been like family to me for years. And with the way she treats Kuro like one of her own, our bond has only grown stronger.

"Kushina, have you seen Kuro anywhere?" I asked, curious.

She blinked in surprise before nodding. "Minato and Jiraiya-sensei had something to discuss with him this morning. Something about new reports, I think. He might need to head out earlier than expected." Her smile faltered.

My heart sank. He'd just gotten home… and now he'd have to leave again?

Kushina must've seen my expression because she quickly reassured me. "Don't worry, Yoshino. Kuro's stronger than even Jiraiya-sensei now. That brat knows how to get by without breaking a sweat. He'll be fine, dattebane."

Her confidence lifted my spirits, even if only a little. Kuro was strong—strong enough that I didn't spend every waking moment worrying about him.

On my way back to the compound, I heard a commotion coming from the park. Curious, I wandered closer and saw a group of children gathered. Naruto, Choji, Sasuke, and Hinata were facing off against a group of older kids, one of whom looked like a Genin. My brows furrowed as I stepped closer to listen.

"Big bro, these are the kids I told you about," a chubby boy whined. "I was just talking to that weird-eyed girl over there, and they attacked me out of nowhere! Make them pay!"

Naruto, being Naruto, immediately shot back. "Liar! You were bullying Hinata-chan and calling her names! We're not letting you get away with that!"

Sasuke crossed his arms with a disdainful "Hn," while Choji silently stood in front of Hinata like a shield. Such a sweet boy.

The Genin hesitated, recognizing Naruto and Hinata. But the younger boy kept egging him on.

Just as the Genin moved toward them, the entire park was suddenly engulfed in shadows. The bullies froze, trembling, while Naruto broke into a grin.

"It's Kuro-niichan! Yatta! Now you're in trouble, you lying liars!"

I couldn't help but chuckle at Naruto's unwavering faith in my eldest.

From the shadows emerged Kuro, with Izuna-chan walking beside him. Such a lovely girl. I couldn't help but think how perfect they were together. When are those two going to make it official? We've all been waiting for ages!

But I digress.

Kuro glanced at the bullies with his usual bored expression before sighing, releasing them from his shadows, and saying flatly, "Your parents will be notified of your actions. Go home."

The kids didn't need to be told twice. They bolted like their lives depended on it. Meanwhile, the Genin who had started the whole mess was still tied up, immobilized by Kuro's shadows. The poor boy's face was frozen in fear.

Kuro's frown deepened as he looked at him, but it was Izuna-chan who caught my attention. She stood calm and composed, but… oh. Her eyes were Sharingans. Kuro had mentioned how protective Izuna-chan was of her little brother, and now I could see it for myself.

Kuro noticed too. Without a word, he reached for her hand, his touch gentle. Izuna-chan blinked, her Sharingans fading as she returned to her serene self. She gave him a soft nod, her fingers curling around his hand in return. Then, she turned to the children and smiled warmly. "You're all okay, right?" she asked, her tone kind and reassuring.

Aww. Look at them holding hands! My Kuro has grown up so much. Just yesterday, I was scolding him for taking naps before dinner, and now he's out here wooing girls like a proper gentleman. Clearly, it's time for me to give him a crash course in how to treat a lady right.

"Hmph, what could those losers even do?" Sasuke said smugly, though he was clearly in a good mood.

"Yes, Izuna-neechan!" Naruto and Choji chimed in, their faces lighting up at her presence. Even Hinata-chan nodded shyly, her cheeks tinted pink.

Izuna-chan smiled at them again before turning back to Kuro, her voice soft and deferential. "What should we do about him?" she asked, nodding toward the petrified Genin.

Kuro sighed, glancing at the boy with a mix of pity and frustration. "He hasn't actually done anything yet… but his conduct? It's clear he's not qualified to be a Genin. He could've handled this in countless better ways, and he should know not to misuse his skills on civilians, especially for something so petty. Still, since nothing happened…"

Kuro's gaze shifted to the trembling Genin. "You'll be suspended for two weeks. This incident will go on your record, and you're barred from promotions for five years. Your superior will also be informed of your behavior. Any objections?"

The boy shook his head so fast it was a miracle it didn't fall off.

"Good." Kuro released him and pointed toward the Hokage Tower. "Go to the disciplinary committee and report your punishment yourself."

The Genin hesitated, his voice shaking. "W-what should I tell them if they ask who authorized this?"

Kuro's expression shifted to one of incredulity, but Sasuke answered before he could. "Tsk. What a loser. Doesn't even recognize the Shadow Weaver when he sees him."

"?!"

The Genin paled even further—if that was possible. He started bowing repeatedly, sputtering apologies, and sprinted away like his shoes were on fire.

I couldn't help but chuckle at the scene.

Kuro, however, let out an annoyed sigh. "When will I ever be rid of that name…" he muttered.

"Why? It's so cool, Niichan!" Naruto exclaimed, his eyes shining.

Choji, Sasuke, and even Hinata nodded in agreement.

Kuro's eye twitched. Izuna-chan, hiding her amusement behind a delicate hand, finally spoke up. "I think it suits you. It's quite cute. And it does match mine." She smiled sweetly at the end.

That did it. Kuro's face turned bright red as he glared at her.

Unable to hold back any longer, I stepped into view, grinning. "I think so too," I said, relishing the way Kuro groaned in exasperation. "Hey, kids. Been causing trouble?"

Kuro shot me a look of pure annoyance but greeted me nonetheless. "Hey, Mom."

The others were much more enthusiastic. Izuna-chan, ever the polite one, bowed slightly. "Good afternoon, Yoshina-sama. I hope you're well."

Oh, this girl. I couldn't resist pulling her into a warm hug, laughing softly at how flustered she became. Leaning in close, I whispered, "Izuna-chan, no need to be so formal. And just so you know—I'm rooting for you."

Her face turned an adorable shade of red. I released her with a chuckle, glancing over to see Kuro glaring daggers at me. Ignoring him entirely, I invited everyone to the compound for lunch. They agreed eagerly, and soon we were on our way, the group buzzing with energy.

...

As we walked, I noticed Choji lagging behind, his expression downcast. Before I could say anything, Kuro had already fallen into step beside him.

"What's got you down, buddy? Missed breakfast?" Kuro teased lightly.

Choji's cheeks puffed out as he shook his head. "Niichan, you know I'd never survive missing breakfast!"

Kuro laughed, ruffling Choji's hair. "Fair enough. But seriously, what's wrong? Want to talk about it?"

Choji hesitated, his gaze darting to Naruto and Sasuke before he dropped his eyes to the ground. Finally, he spoke, his voice small and trembling. "Niichan… do you think I'm… useless?"

The question hit me like a kunai to the heart. Who dared to plant such doubts in our sweet Choji? They'd better pray to Kami I never found out who they were!

Kuro, ever calm, didn't flinch. Instead, he crouched down and gently hoisted Choji onto his shoulder as if he were as light as a feather. "Hold on tight," he said softly. "I'd hate for you to fall."

Choji yelped in surprise but clung tightly, his fingers gripping Kuro's flak jacket.

Naruto, naturally, couldn't stay quiet. "Hey! I wanna do that too! Me next, Kuro-niichan!"

I rolled my eyes, patting his head. "You'll get your turn, Naruto. For now, it's Choji's moment."

Naruto pouted but relented, going back to his heated debate with Sasuke about the merits of different ramen toppings. Meanwhile, Kuro began walking, his voice thoughtful as we strolled through the residential streets.

"Choji, when you look around you, what do you see?" Kuro asked softly.

Choji blinked, a little puzzled. "Um... houses?"

Kuro chuckled, a warm and gentle sound. "That's right. Houses, trees, parks… all of it makes up Konoha. But is that all Konoha is?"

Choji furrowed his brow. "Well… no! Konoha's got restaurants too!"

Kuro burst into laughter, and I had to stifle a chuckle. Oh, this sweet, innocent boy.

"You're not wrong," Kuro replied, his grin wide. "But that's not what truly makes Konoha… well, Konoha!"

"It's not?" Choji tilted his head, intrigued now.

Kuro shook his head. "Konoha isn't just buildings or places. It's an idea, a bond. It's people like you, me, and everyone else who make it what it is. Konoha is our home, and home is where the heart is."

"Home is where the heart is…" Choji echoed, his eyes sparkling with wonder. "Wow!"

Kuro smiled, continuing, "Do you love your home, Choji?"

"Of course! I love Konoha, my family, my friends—everyone!" Choji said brightly, his earlier doubts starting to fade.

"That's wonderful. So tell me, will you protect it?"

Choji blinked. "Protect? Like… fight for it?"

Kuro nodded, his tone earnest. "If one day someone comes to threaten our home, will you stand up for it? Will you protect your family, your friends, every tree, every building, and every person here?"

Choji's gaze grew thoughtful as he glanced back at us. We all smiled at him, our silent support bolstering him. He turned his eyes toward the Hokage Monument, standing tall against the sky, then back at Kuro. Tears brimmed in his eyes, but he quickly wiped them away.

"With all my heart," he said firmly. "I'll protect everyone. I'll protect Konoha."

"You promise?" Kuro asked, his voice soft but resolute.

"I promise!" Choji declared.

"Me too!" Naruto shouted, punching the air. "I'll protect everyone! Believe it, dattebayo!"

Sasuke gave a quiet nod. "Hn."

Hinata gazed at Kuro, admiration shining in her eyes, while I… well, I had to bite my lip to stop from tearing up.

Kuro smiled, placing a hand on Choji's head. "If you already have that resolve, Choji, then you've never been useless. You're strong, you're kind, and you have the heart of a protector. Never forget that. Believe in yourself as much as we believe in you."

Choji sniffled, his tears finally spilling over. And… Kami, I wasn't far behind. Naruto cried too, no surprise there, and even Sasuke had to blink a few times more than usual.

Kuro had come so far, hadn't he? He'd grown into someone who could inspire others so deeply. My heart swelled with pride and love for my boy.

I was looking at my boy with pride. He has come so far…

Izuna-chan was looking softly at Kuro as well, I could recognize that look anywhere, haaah~

Young love~

Maybe I will need to learn knitting in the years to come?

Who knows?

…

Later that day, after a feast fit for the Daimyō himself, Kuro sat with everyone, sharing stories and laughing as if there weren't a war looming on the horizon.

Izuna helped me in the kitchen, her quiet efficiency making me smile. Such a good girl. She'd make a fine match for Kuro… if he didn't fumble things first.

…

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October 19th, Year 72, Konohagakure

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The time to say goodbye came too quickly.

"Do you have to go again, Niichan?" Naruto's voice trembled as he and Choji clung to Kuro, their eyes red and puffy. Even Shikamaru, who tried so hard to act mature, couldn't hide the moisture in his eyes as he gave Kuro a quick hug.

Kuro knelt, ruffling their hair. "I'll be back before you know it. Be good for me, alright?"

"Okay…" Choji whispered.

"Don't take too long, Niichan," Naruto added, his lip quivering.

Kuro turned to me and his father. His smile was soft, but there was a steely determination in his eyes.

"Mom, don't worry too much. And cut Shikamaru some slack. He's smarter than he lets on."

I hugged him tightly, fighting back tears. "You be careful, Kuro. Promise me."

"I promise."

He turned to Shikaku, his expression sharp. "I'll see you out there, Old Man. If you run into trouble, you know what to do."

Shikaku nodded, pride gleaming in his eyes. "We'll handle it. And we'll win."

Kuro smirked. "Never doubted it."

He stepped back, ready to teleport, when I remembered something.

"Kuro!" I called. He paused, looking back at me. "Izuna-chan's in your squad now. Treat her properly—and make her your girlfriend while you're at it!"

Kuro's face turned crimson, his composure cracking as laughter erupted around him. Mortified, he vanished in a flash of chakra without a word.

I chuckled, shaking my head. That boy…

He was ready to take on the world. And I knew, deep in my heart, everything would be okay.