Konoha Year 51, Early September.
The situation in the ninja world has essentially stabilized, with the five major powers refraining from discussing about war, which has ushered in an era of peace marked by frequent economic exchanges.
From Shiraishi's perspective, the Land of Demons, having amassed funds, technology, and talents, now possesses the initial confidence to compete with any of the five major nations However, this was merely the preliminary stage.
Despite the decline in military strength of the five great countries had declined compared to their heyday due to the past wars, especially Konaha, they number of ninjas they currently houses ld is around 10,000.
Even with a one-third reduction in power, Konoha, with its 10,000 ninjas, stands strong, showcasing the deep heritage of the Five Great Nations.
In contrast, the Land of Demons managed to capture Hoshigakure which had only a few hundred low-quality ninjas. Such an achievement holds little weight in the larger scene.
Recognizing this, Shiraishi understood the need for patience, refraining from showing any signs of acting too rashly.
"Shiraishi-kun, I'm back."
After hearing this long lost familiar voice after a prolonged absence, Shiraishi knew who has back.
When he thought about it, it has been three or four months since she was assigned to the Land of Bears, with occasional visits to the Land of Fire. It's reasonable to assume Ayane might have grown tired of extended stays outside.
So after Raimei was handed over the mission, Ayane couldn't wait to rush back to the Land of Demons, which was also within his expectations.
Facing Ayane, who embraced him from behind upon her return, gently resting her head and twin peaks against him, Shiraishi couldn't help but feel a slight headache. Yet, in truth, he missed her nurturing presence.
"This is the office; please be mindful of the surroundings."
While he hasld more free time now, it wass impossible to spend all of it in the laboratory. But compared to before, he ha more free time for his research.
Under normal circumstances, Shiraishi preferred staying in the office, quietly drinking tea, seeking comfort after a busy day.
The issue regarding the Yang clone, due to a deal with Nagato, has made Yin-Yang Release progress fater. He now has enough time to perfect the clone during the planning stage.
Shiraishi who's already experienced the profoundness of Yin-Yang Release..It was as vast and profound as Ayane's breasts.
"Oh, I thought Shiraishi-kun would pounce on me like a wolf in an instant.".Ayane squinted and smiled.
"I told you this is an office."
"Obviously, you've messes around here before."
"...that was before."
"In other words, Shiraishi-kun doesn't need to use my body to release his pressure anymore?"
Shiraishi chose not to respond to her question. Whether he needsled to release his pressure or not, Ayane would fully understand when they return at night.
"How is the handover in Hoshigakure? Any issues?"
"Well, Raimei shouldn't encounter any problems there. However, that kid Red Shadow seems a bit different from before."
Ayane had been paying attention to that immature boy aspiring to be Shiraishi's shadow. Given that he's a ninja with kekkei genkai, it would be difficult not to pay attention to him. After all, each kekkei genkai ninja represented significant potential, drawing different levels of attention from ordinary ninjas.
"That kid is way too serious in certain aspects."
"Yes, for example, he wants to be a shadow behind Shiraishi-kun. I recall that he was quite envious of Shadow Dancer in the past." Ayane chuckled to herself.
Shiraishi was speechless; this incident did indeed happen. Shadow Dancer didn't appreciate Red Shadow competing for the title of 'shadow.'
"I've briefed the high-level members of Hoshikage, led by Third Hoshikage. They seem to be cooperative. However, I don't fully trust them. While using them, I've also kept them under surveillance. They understand their situation, so, for now, both sides are safe."
After the banter, Ayane released Shiraishi and got down to business.
"That's fine. As long as they open up a little, we can accommodate them without issues."
"Yes, it's just a small village, no matter how important."
Ayane's words aren't belittling; in the ninja world, it is the most accurate portrayal. Hoshigakure, backed by a small country, faces limitations. Without special opportunities like the Land of Demons, it eas their limit.
Even if they possessed an extremely rare secret jutsu, it could not change this reality. Additionally, in terms of secret jutsu, the ninja villages of the five major countries continually developed various secret jutsu. In terms of talent reserves and technical aspe6, they surpass the ninja villages of small countries.
While the Mysterious Peacock Method was rare, it wasn't unparalleled. The five major powers have numerous means to counter aerial attacks. Konoha Nara clan's shadow ninjutsu, and Iwagakure's Third Tsuchikage can carry others while flying.
In one kf tjr past confrontation, Ameyu had suffered at the hands of the Konoha Nara clan's ninjas.
"Next, you should stay here. There are no missions that require you going out of the country.
"Well, this is exactly what I wanted. After all, Cai should be fine at home, right?" Ayane glanced over.
Shiraishi's body stiffened for a moment, and then his face returned to its neutral state.
"What's the matter with Cai? Asuka is very competent as an elder brother."
"I meant Kazuhime... But, she seems to have been sent to Konoha, right? What were you and her thinking?"
Ayane asked curiously. She didn't know about Kazuhime being sent to Konoha until recently, but now that she thought about it, it felt really unbelievable.
"It was Kazuhime's own idea. As parents, we can only follow her wishes."
"Is it a genius's idea? I just hope that she won't be led astray by Konoha's empty will of fire. If so, I would really like to see that woman's expression." Ayane showed an extremely dangerous smile on her face.
If you were to identify the one amongst the three of them who despised Konoha's Will of Fire the most, it would undoubtedly be Ayane.
In her past as a member of the Hyuga clan's branch, she reaped no benefits from the Will of Fire. Instead, being in the clan's branch meant residing in a dark corner untouched by the Will of Fire's light.
For Ayane, nothing seemed more hypocritical than the Will of Fire. Thus, she couldn't comprehend the actions of Ruri and Shiraishi. If it were her own child, she would try her best effort to dissuade him, even against his own will.
"Don't be so sinister, okay? No matter how empty the Will of Fire may be, it's something recognized by history, despite its many shortcomings..."
Yet, it remained the persistence of many people to survive. In this ninja world where productivity completely deviates significantly from the norm, having one's own beliefs, implementing them, and finding the courage to live a strong life was a source of great happiness.
"Yeah, I finally understand why Shiraishi-kun always emphasized that ideological education is more important than ninja education. However, we still need to be careful to not let her absorb any strange ideas."
Though Kazuhime wasn't her own child, Ayane believed it eas important to be careful.
"Don't worry, she'll be taken care of over there, and Kazuhime isn't an ignorant child."
It may be inconceivable for a mature judgement to appear from a seven-year-old child, but Shiraishi believed that Kazuhime won't easily be swayed by others. In this respect, Kazuhime and Ruri are quite similar, both possessing serious personalities.
"It's a bit of a coincidence; Kazuhime's current class's homeroom teacher is Fujimura-sensei." Shiraishi recalled something interesting and shared it with Ayane.
"Fujimura-sensei? Wasn't he our sensei who Ruri evaluated as a 'mere chunin'? I seem to remember him, but I didn't expect him to still be a teacher at the academy. Oh, I feel a little sorry for him."
Hearing Ayane's pitiful tone, Shiraishi nodded sympathetically.
Back in the academy, Fujimura was often looked down upon by Ruri. Now, he has to face the contempt of the childhood version of 'Ruri' again, making Shiraishi wonder if it was his luck or misfortune.
"Okay, I'm going home first, and I'll wait for you to come back tonight, Shiraishi-kun. I'll be waiting for my compensation for these past few months"
Before leaving, Ayane blew a rather ambiguous kiss and then disappeared from Shiraishi's office.
"It's so troublesome..."
Shiraishi knew that women of this age had very strong physical needs, so it was impossible for Ayane, who had been separated for several months, to spare him tonight. So, at this time, he should be glad that Liuli wasn't at home tonight.
....
Putting off his evening work in the laboratory, Shiraishi headed back home.
Concluding his work to relax at home after a day's labor could be viewed as a reflection of life.
Although it might make him seem to have a lazy attitude towards life, in the past, he had no choice but to struggle desperately. Therefore, enjoying the quality of life when appropriate gave the appearance of success, not of someone struggling at the bottom.
Moreover, in the cold and pale lab, there was no warmth like Ayane's companionship.
As long as he worked harder tomorrow, being lazy every now and then could be forgiven. A life without laziness sometimes couldn't be called a correct life.
With this thought in mind, Shiraishi returned home a little earlier than usual.
"I'm back."
Shiraishi stood at the entrance and spoke to the room. Soon, he noticed someone.
It was Ayane. The fragrance of jasmine emanated from her, likely because she had just taken a bath, leaving a refreshing scent on her body.
Pure white pupils, slightly raised mouth corners, a delicate and pure silhouette, wearing a well-cut pure white printed kimono, she looked beautiful and incomparable.
"Shiraishi-kun, you're back. So, would you like to take your bath first, or have dinner with me?"
'If possible, i hope to do both at the same time.' Shiraishi inwardly.
Ayane was a mischievous woman, willful and casual in fighting or other aspects. Unlike Ruri, who appeared cold and aloof, Ayane was more open than anyone else in having fun.
Shiraishi thought of their wonderful time tonight. He could already imagine the smooth and graceful body under the kimono. Sure enough, it was an extremely wise decision to turn down the work in the laboratory, retuning home early.
"No, I'll go to the study to sort things out first, let's talk about it after dinner."
Shiraishi wasn't in a hurry to engage with Ayane so early. Save the most fun for last, the night is long, after all.
"Okay, but I just hope that Shiraishi-kun won't regret it when the time comes."
Ayane's gentle smile radiated an innocence that stirred a protective instinct in those who beheld her, enchanting with an appearance so seemingly harmless.
'This cunning woman!'
Although he pretended to be a gentleman on the surface, her passionate desire has actually made it difficult for him to restrain himself. However, no matter what, at least it wasnt a good idea start in somewhere open.
So, amidst Ayane's chuckle, Shiraishi walked up to the second floor. His study room and bedroom were adjacent, but when he just walked to the stairs on the second floor, a light footstep in the corridor caught his attention.
After that, he looked at the boy who appeared in front of him.. Shiraishi's face was blank, and he didn't seem to react.
"Colorful?"
Emerging in the corridor was none other than his youngest son, Cai, making an unexpected entrance.
"Well.... Father, does this dress look good on me?"
Cai lightly bit his finger, casting a shy glance at Shiraishi, as if eagerly awaiting his evaluation.
It was only then that Shiraishi noticed Cai was wearing a white dress and heels, his black hair was pinned with hairpins typically meant for girls. His overall clothing style appeared more feminine.
Shiraishi suddenly realized something was wrong... Cai appearing at home in this dress. Wouldn't that mean that Ayane had...
In an instant, Shiraishi broke into a cold sweat. However, by the time he realized something was wrong, it was too late. A faint voice reached his ears.
"By the way, I forgot to mention just now. Before enjoying tonight's activities, I have something to discuss with you, Shiraishi-kun. For example, about Cai falling in love with women's clothing, Shiraishi-kun, you're going to properly explain something to me, right? Don't worry, I'm ready to listen to Shiraishi-kun's explanation~"
Ayane, now exuding a strong and ominous aura, appeared behind him seemingly out of nowhere, accompanied by a smile even more friendly than before.
However, this friendliness carried an unsettling undertone. Chakra manifested dramatically, causing the entire mansion to tremble horribly.
....
-Father was fordd to sleep at Raimei-san's house again today.
After finishing writing, Asuka couldn't continue writing. However, depicting his father's unbearable side in this manner would not only make his father appear pitiful but also Raimei-san, who also suffered indiscriminately from his father.
Asuka understood the cause of the problem.
Aun6t Ayane, who had been away on business for a few months, returned home, hoping to enjoy the warmth between mother and child with her son. However, upon her return, she discovered her son trying on women's clothing in his room.
Asuka could likely imagine the horror and despair of the scene at that time.
Because his mother Ruri's sneer when she was angry wasn't as frightening as Auntie Ayane's. When his mother sneered, it just appeared to others that she was simply angry. Auntie Ayane's sneer was the kind that went beyond anger.
Despite his father reminding Cai more than once not to wear women's clothes, Cai didn't take this advice to heart. In a place where his father couldn't see, he continued to secretly trying out the forbidden fruit that made his heart surge.
Asuka knew that Cai's mind had been influenced by his younger sister. Even though Kazuhime seemed to be studying in a distant place, her influence continued to affect their only younger brother.
This appeared undeniably strange to Asuka. Why did Cai have an interest in women's clothing? Clearly, it was no just typical interest. Or perhaps, did women's clothing genuinely make him happy?
Numerous questions crossed Asuka's mind.
In the end, such things could only be attributed to the fact that Cai, like Kazuhime, was a special child.
Being special... Asuka felt somewhat envious. To be special meant to be extraordinary, to stand out.
His younger sister, Kazuhime who loves playing tricks.
His younger brother, Cai, who likes women clothing.
His father with a soft spot for Raimei-san's house.
His mother who always had a cold expression every day.
Auntie Ayane who was always smiling.
Ameyu-san, who can't speak.
Tu-san, who could speak but his word couldn't be understood, he was always bullied by his younger siblings.
Raimei-san who endured bullying from his father and sister.
Shadow-san, always accidentally causing trouble for the Tu-san
Compared to his family members, Asuka felt no different from an ordinary person. If simplicity was considered a characteristic, then his only characteristic was simplicity.
From the bedroom window of the second floor, looking at his father resting outside the courtyard, Asuka knew his father would endure loneliness once again tonight.
Thinking this way, Raimei-san, who was out on business, would be a bit happier. At least he didn't have to squeeze into the cramped pet house with his father.
"When can I be special too?"
Asuka gazed at his father outside the window and sighed with sentiment. It seemed that unless he became special as well, he couldn't truly fit into this environment.
He, Uchiha Asuka, also yearned to be a special child.
.....
"Well…"
This wasn't the first time Shiraishi sighed today. In fact, he didn't know how many times he had sighed. He was also a little absent-minded while working, all because of things at home that kept distracting him.
Cai's fondness for women's clothing was discovered by Ayane. Only then did he realize that, despite his warning, Cai didn't lose interest in women's clothing. Under Kazuhime's deliberate guidance, Cai's interest became more concealed..Even after Kazuhime left, he still retained his weird interest.
Unfortunately, after Ayane found out about this interest, she exploded on the spot. Shiraishi thought he would spend a wonderful night with Ayane, but in the end, he had to endure the cold wind outside.
None of his sons and daughter spared him from worry. At first, Asuka seemed to make him feel at ease, but in the past few days, he kept talking about how to become a special child. This made Shiraishi subconsciously think that the feng shui at home wasn't very good.
At this moment, the office door was suddenly pushed open. Generally, no one would be so rude as to enter without knocking. However, upon seeing the person who came in, Shiraishi was relieved.
"Father!"
The girl who entered already looked like a girl. Koyuki. The current daimyo of Land of Snow. Of course, she was also his cute and clever adopted daughter.
"Koyuki, why are you here? It shouldn't be a holiday in Land of Snow at this time, right?"
And the staff below didn't inform him, so Koyuki's arrival was apparently arbitrary. She was becoming more and more daring.
"Because I miss father. Could it be my father doesn't wan to see me?"
Koyuki ran to Shiraishi's side, pouting in dissatisfaction.
"Koyuki-sama, don't make it difficult for Shiraishi-san. I'm sorry, Shiraishi-san. Please bear with her willfulness a little."
The panting man who followed was none other than the Land of Snow's Minister of Internal Affairs, Asama, Koyuki's assistant. He spoke to Shiraishi with a wry smile.
"Even you are here, Asama-san." Shiraishi was quite surprised.
Asama continued to smile wryly and said, "Koyuki-sama has been acting wayward this time."
"Really?" Shiraishi rubbed his chin, looked at Koyuki who was hugging his arm intimately, and could only say, "What problem are you creating for Asama-san this time? Anyway, you are also a famous name in the Land of Snow, so don't always be so stubborn."
Koyuki patted her chest and said proudly. "I'm not stubborn, it is a decision I made after careful consideration, Father."
"Decision?"
Shiraishi was a little puzzled and then looked at Asama, asking, "What is Koyuki's decision?"
"Ah, that, the decision is…"
Asama didn't really know how to explain to Shiraishi, leaving him confused.
"Koyuki, what is your decision?"
Shiraishi was very curious about what decision Koyuki had made that had embarrassed Asama, causing him trouble. If it wasn't a particularly excessive request, it might be worth considering.
"Actor."
"Actor?"
Shiraishi didn't seem to react; he blinked and stared at Koyuki with inexplicable eyes.
"Yes, father, I have already decided and plan to make my official debut as a movie actor! Will you support me, father?"
Koyuki looked at Shiraishi expectantly, hoping that he would support her decision.
"Actor…"
Shiraishi picked up the cup on the table, took a sip of tea, and fell silent.
"Well... father... what's wrong with you?"
"No, it's nothing. I would just like to visit the shrine before going back home tonight…"
"Shrine?" Koyuki blinked her eyes but didn't understand.
"The feng shui at home isn't very good recently, and I need a Miko to help me exorcise the evil spirits causing it."
Before Koyuki arrived, he was just suspicious, now he was determined. There were indeed some problems with the Feng Shui at home. Initially, it was only his own biological children, but now even his adoptive daughter had been affected.
Having a name suitable for a country wasn't right for an acting career...
Shiraishi felt that if things continued this way, he might suffer a cerebral hemorrhage sooner or later.