Auspicious News
~ Chapter 27 ~
~ Oasis Village - The Manor ~
Late morning. The lingering scent of Sakuya's favorite vanilla incense is faint, but still very much appreciated at this time.
Standing before her floor length vanity mirror, a real struggle is unfolding in Sakuya's southeast room.
Once again re-adjusting the clean white Obi of her formal kimono, Sakuya frowns at her reflection.
"It's still not resting flat, I'm going to get wrinkles up and down." She said to her attendant softly.
Her new aide, a somewhat older woman by the name of Ami, is normally very patient, but even she is getting irritated by the trouble.
"I'm sorry my lady, I suspect it's a matter of the chest. I thought the special kimono bra would help, but it's not flattening as much as I was led to believe," she said regretfully.
"Perhaps we should give the sarashi under wrap another go?"
The folded garb is lovely but also a real test of patience.
Sakuya adores them on other people, but when trying to wear them herself it often seems like the garment's intricacy is almost working against it.
Trying not to sigh, Sakuya easily relents.
"May as well, I don't understand, I learned as a child from Lady Ryoko and Papa Raizen that kimonos are most flattering on a smaller bust...
"But anyone with eyes can see my chest is nothing to "brag" about. There shouldn't be any problems. "
"That's not false modesty on my part or any fishing for compliments Lady Ami.
"Im dead serious, due to the overall center of gravity, (necessary for dance) my body can't accept anything more.
"Literally, anything more than a larger B or perhaps the smallest C cup and my eight to ten hours of dance per day would be a lot more difficult!
Sakuya knows she is rambling now, but the silence before was too uncomfortable.
"The axis of my turns wouldn't be consistent and my momentum would be all wonky."
"
The attendant named Ami keeps focused.
Realizing from Ami's lack of response, her aid must have thought her remarks were venting or perhaps rhetorical, Sakuya clarifies with a proper question.
"Any ideas as to why the silhouette is still so difficult to get right?"
Her brother Reiji and his wife Yuukina (Sakuya's best friend at that) will be home soon and she wants to make a good impression.
'Yuuki loves these, and I want to share in that appreciation.'
"I really couldn't say," Ami said cautiously, carefully assisting Sakuya in unwrapping of the beautifully crimson-dyed kimono wrap.
"It is possible you are in that fabled "grey area".
"You know, just "big" enough to cause issue, with this type of garment, but not so "prominent" it interferes in your dance," said Ami warily, as though she feared Sakuya's reaction.
Sakuya takes no offense, she understands Ami's reservation and hopes to alleviate her employee's discomfort.
"It's okay to state your mind, Lady Ami. If you have input to offer, I want to hear it honestly. And thank you, I know this is a stressful position."
"If you're really ok... That's DEFINITELY it then. As you say, Lady Sakuya, you aren't paticularly "endowed" but you're no "A", let alone a small B cup.
"Let's be realistic, when it comes to Kimono culture, a medium B is typically the cut off point for the "best" silhouette."
Ami is emboldened, she said sternly, "Naturally this presents a problem today because as a currently unmarried woman, you simply can't get away with wearing the Obi-sash too low.
"It wouldn't be right, they have the valid excuse of nursing, so people are willing to be more lax on them.
"There's truly no helping it, all we can do is work with what we have.
"Maybe a few layers of padding along your waist?" Asked Ami, her voice resigned to their frustrating task.
"Nodding at Ami's assessment, Sakuya again raises her arms for the sarashi to be wrapped around her waist.
"You have my permission Lady Ami. Do whatever it takes to even out the kimono silhouette."
' I might as well get used to this, my probable "husband-to-be" is surely going to expect me to be at least somewhat familiar with this form of dress.
' Kimonos are quite popular amongst Uchiha women and I am one quarter.'
'It's in the blood as they say...'
Indeed, regarding news of her potential betrothal, (Affianced if you will) just a few short days ago, Sakuya was neither surprised nor particularly disappointed.
' I always knew this was coming, that sooner or later an "acceptable partner" would be presented."
' Call me a "doormat" if you will, but with our position, it truly was ALWAYS a matter of WHEN. Never an "If".
' My brothers aren't fools, I always trusted them to pick appropriately and with my best interests in mind.
' They've never given me a reason to doubt otherwise. There was never fear in my heart that it might be some pompous animal throwing the biggest pile of money around. '
' And besides, perhaps it's an arrogant mindset, but I like to think I can surely make happiness through anything... '
' I don't know him especially well but we aren't strangers and Madara seems to be a fine man. (Albeit easily flustered, but that has its own charm.)
' Hm, I suppose even accounting for the absolute worst-case scenario, I'll simply outlive him by far and find a "heart-racing" love for myself.
' A widow, (at least those by natural causes) can do as she pleases without fear of societal judgment.
' Ah, a "Prince Arashi" all my own. ' Silently grateful to her hereditary "Uzumaki Longevity", Sakuya is determined not to waste the rare opportunity it affords her.
Perhaps it's "mercenary" but from a young age, Sakuya learned to understand the value of maintaining appearances.
To make them as truthful as possible and not compromise in that arena.
' Excessive pride tends to get one an early grave.
' Better to keep calm and move with carefully plotted grace.'
' Like anyone else, I too can have what I desire "most", but that means FIRST knowing when to bow out.
' When to set aside or otherwise discard a goal that would cause more harm than a net benefit. ' She mused determinedly.
' In this case, siding with Brother and Father offers me that cozy margin of leeway.
' Best case scenario, it's as I hope and Madara is every bit the "Prince Arashi" (to my "Resea") he has the potential to be and I lose nothing at all.
' As of today there are roughly twenty-four months till I turn twenty, in that time I will give him an honest chance. Explore this new horizon together. '
' I've already seen his determination first hand... yes it was directed at protecting his brother Izuna, but that devotion is a good and promising sign.
' A love of family is never a downside... I wonder, what other positive attributes are hidden in Madara's heart?
' I very much want to see...' Sakuya thought longingly. 'It doesn't hurt that he's been making an effort to explore and comprehend my interests as well. He could have just dismissed them, but Madara asks me honest questions and I enjoy answering.
' Yes, in due time I will come to understand exactly what resides within his enigmatic heart.'
' I might even be impressed, our future could very well be a happy one. ' decided Sakuya optimistically.
' In any case that is no concern of now. Today's party doubles as her eighteenth birthday. Or at least as closely as can be estimated...
Sakuya's brothers never did know her exact birthday, (It was quite hard to keep track when one's parents aren't in their right minds.)
' Lord Kyou- er, Father has a valid excuse of not remembering due to the whole brainwashing by Aika, and our mother Sora is demonstrably dead so they are no help.
' From what Shiro and Reiji could recall from their earliest memories it was sometime in the third week of the twelfth month. '
' I suppose since it was before their Sharingan activated, giving them their perfect recollection. It would be unreasonable to demand more details.'
' After Papa Raizen adopted us from the children's shelter, he settled on the Twenty-first and they've dotingly celebrated my birth on this date than ever since.' Sakuya's thoughts are tinged with a pink nostalgia.
' The twins already knew theirs was the seventh day of the eighth calendar month so they required no lenience.
Even after his regrettable passing, her older brothers stuck to that date and it never fails to make her smile at their consistent thoughtfulness.
' It's my turn now. I will make sure today's celebration will be a most wonderful event.
"When Yuuki and Rei arrive home, surely expecting preparations for my birthday celebration... Just imagine their surprise Lady Ami!"
Sakuya's aid hums in response, though Ami is happy for Sakuya's enthusiasm, she is still busily trying to get the sarashi to press down the "uncooperative" curves of her employer's chest.
"Yes today, I will do my very best to be a host a splendid gathering all for their auspicious return home." Sakuya's earnest smile was infectious.
' My brother and Yuuki will know for sure how much we all missed them!'
Sakuya's thoughts were perhaps excessively eager but very well organized.
"As for tomorrow, well, everything can return to normal.
"Back to my white day gowns and pastel overlays, perfect for more intricate and dynamic song and dance." She said to Ami gracefully.
~
Several hours later, over a late lunch.
In a modestly decorated hall, a warm and joyful party celebrating the return of Lord Reiji Uzumaki and his wife Lady Yuukina is in full swing.
Approximately twenty people in attendence, the gathering is neither to big nor too small for the welcoming occasion.
Sipping a delightful matcha green tea with honey, Reiji and Yuukina are chatting amicably with Kyou while Shiro Uzumaki is struggling desperately not to yank Reiji away.
'It's good Reiji is playing nice. ' Shiro appreciates that his younger brother is able to keep his eye on the metaphorical "prize".
Standing at their sister Sakuya's side, refilling their honored guest's drinks as needed, Shiro knows he and his brother Reiji are in need of catch-up.
Especially now that Shiro's suspicions regarding Saiken's attack are looking accurate.
' I feel it, I had to dig deep, but it's unmistakable. No wonder Saiken was so confused.
Her leeched power was emanating from two directions in fairly close proximity...
My new sister by marriage, Yuukina is going to be a mother. And her child's "share" of the Biju chakra ensnared the slug's focus. '
'Reiji must have been just far enough away. That or in Saiken's rage-addled confusion, the six-tail attacked the smaller target first. I need Rei's perspective.'
'Still this all most impressive, not even a month along, and yet already the child growing within Yuukina is siphoning Biju chakra into himself (or herself) as aptly as we three. (If not more so)
The scientist has much to be proud of, but this also shortens our timeline by an uncomfortable margin.
At this rate, all nine beasts will be gone within the decade. Possibly as soon as five years, not a bad thing in of itself...
' No "tailed beasts" means no need for public Jinchuriki, but Mother's Jubi wasn't expected to be a factor anytime soon.
' Even dividing its chakra four ways, the adjustment isn't going to be smooth.
' Perhaps if I- ' Shiro's cautious thoughts are interrupted. The sound of his father calling him over.
First making sure to nod at Sakuya in appreciation for her hard work in arranging this welcome party, he heads over in a flash.
"Thank you, Father, for calling him over," Reiji said politely, his bride Yuukina, does the same before addressing Shiro.
"Now, we appreciate the party, Sakuya is a wonderful host, but why didn't you tell us beforehand that Ayame is pregnant?"
"A little memo would have been nice! I'm so embarrassed, I would have brought her a gift. She must think us selfish, uncaring-
"On the note of "caring", why is Rasa working? You know, they should be home together preparing!"
Staring blankly at his new sister a moment.,Shiro doesn't know how to respond. Not to that... onslaught of assumptions.
"Ayame? She's pregnant? I sincerely had no idea." He said honestly. ' Why would Yuukina think I'd pay that much attention? It's not like she's -
' Okay yeah, I probably could and arguably SHOULD have paid closer attention. ' Shiro conceded internally.
Carefully analyzing the wife of Sakuya's formidable personal guard, Shiro notes that while Ayame has a bit of a swell, it's nothing noticeable. Comparing her image with that of the memories stored by his Sharingan and it's only barely more so. ' Her face is maybe a hair rounder. '
The sash of her wide obi conceals it exceptionally well, really if Yuukina hadn't pointed it out, he never would have noticed nor ever thought to.
But really, since Rasa hasn't said a word to him or Sakuya...
(For if she knew, his sister would surely be all over them with excitement...)
"With respect, neither has said a word, not to me or Sakuya," defended Shiro.
" I can only assume they are keeping the news to themselves for now."
Yuukina settles immediately. "Ah, my mistake then, forgive my impertinence. I guess their silence makes sense, at least until the "stable period."
"Apologies for jumping on you. Lately, I've been a bit hot-headed. That's not an excuse of course..."
The regret and understanding in Yuukina's voice were nice to hear, but Shiro wasn't upset.
"A bit baffling, but I took no offense Yuuki. I'll have Gindori keep a discreet eye."
She smiled gratefully at Shiro's suggestion and snuggled into Reiji's soothing arm. Her exhaustion from the trip was all too apparent.
Shiro returned her smile with one of his own. ' Best I be careful around both women. If only for the foreseeable months.
' Reiji and Eita have Yuukina covered, and although Rasa is trustworthy I'll still have My Luna Moth check in on his wife as well. For Ayame's stability.
' The last thing we want is for our valuable Rasa to end up too worried, that could lead to him becoming unreliable and we can't lose such an asset.'
'Nothing against Negiro but Reiji and I assigned Rasa to Sakuya's personally protection because he was always the BEST of Security Corps. He is hardly "leftovers" from our initiates or the rank and file.
' We can't risk Rasa losing faith, and if Ayame's health and all-around stability are what's required, well that's a minuscule price to pay.
With a respectful bow to their father Kyou, Shiro returns to his place with the (seemingly) effortlessly elegant Sakuya.
"Shiro, is everything alright?" she asked diplomatically.
The "birthday girl" was completely oblivious to the appreciative eyes of their guests.
"I think so Songbird", responded Shiro. "Yuuki is just tired, it was a long trip and the road is stressful. Eita is glued to her side"
Indeed, Reiji's sand cat summon is letting no one unfamiliar near. For now though Shiro felt it best to keep the news of both women's condition to himself.
"The mature coloring of this Kimono suits you well my sister. It's your birthday too so I hope assembling such a piece wasn't too much of a chore.
"The Hamaka which Father and I wear is more forgiving, but a rich crimson like this looks fantastic on you."
Sakuya, bends her shoulders in a light bow,
"Thank you Shiro. Honestly speaking, it was a struggle at first, but Lady Ami and I made it work." she chuckled as though remembering an inside joke.
" Besides, I don't mind sharing today, I really missed them both. And honestly, it's a relief knowing attention is on Yuuki and Rei."
"I get they need rest and if it's any consolation, their lunch party will be wrapping up shortly. In less than forty minutes, they can rest up without interruptions." Sakuya murmured regretfully. "Perhaps I shouldn't have sprung this on them without warning?"
"Don't fret the small things Songbird, they appreciate your gesture and that's what matters. But speaking of Ami, I take it she's treating you well?"
"Of course Brother, Ami inherited this position from her retired mother, it's clear she learned well. Lady Mara is apparently a competent instructor.
"Still, that's one more piece of Pa- Lord Raizen that's gone." Sakuya's words unveiled a thought she'd tried to keep private, but around her brothers, it's all too easy to speak freely.
"It's quite alright Songbird, there's no shame in missing him.
"Father isn't too bothered either, he understands firsthand how... difficult this is. Bless his soul, he isn't exactly having a picnic with the situation.
"Now then, if it helps, I'm sure Lady Mara will appreciate a visit." Shiro assured his sister brightly.
"I think I will. And thank you, Shiro."