Chapter 27 - Chapter 26 : Are they telling the truth? - Part 1

Thank you to my discord server members for their valuable feedback and suggestions. I hope you like some of them being taken into account.

Sorry for the big delay. I had fallen sick and still haven't fully recovered, but that's another thing. Without further ado, here is the chapter

Posted on

May 11, 2025

Sorry for a long long delay

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Without further Ado, here is the next chapter of To Be Hokage. 

AN at end 

To Be Hokage - Chapter 26 : Are they telling the truth?

Kushina led Hiruzen to the guest quarters, her tone formal, though laced with a trace of irritation left over from their earlier spar. She gestured toward the neatly arranged room, her gaze pointedly avoiding his knowing smirk.

"You can use the washroom here if you need it," she said briskly, stepping back as though eager to put some distance between them.

Hiruzen chuckled softly, eyes crinkling with amusement. "Thank you, Kushina-chan. Don't worry, I won't take too long."

She didn't respond. With a sharp turn on her heel, Kushina ascended the stairs to her own room, fists clenched at her sides. Her cheeks were still warm, not from embarrassment, but from the lingering sting of the spar and the humiliation it brought.

She pushed open the door to her washroom and let out a deep sigh as she stepped inside. The tension from the match clung to her skin like static, mingling with the faint scent of sweat and effort.

Stripping out of her clothes, Kushina caught her reflection in the wide mirror above the sink. Her fiery red hair clung to her face in damp strands. Bruises bloomed faintly along her arms and legs, little souvenirs from the spar. Her gaze narrowed as she twisted to the side, eyeing the imprint of a particularly hard strike across her ass cheek.

"Stupid old man," she muttered, pulling her hair into a loose knot. The bruises weren't the worst of it, what bothered her more was the memory of Hiruzen's smug grin as he delivered those humiliating, taunting spanks.

"He's lucky I didn't fry him right then and there," she growled, stepping into the hot shower. The water cascaded over her in heavy, cleansing waves, washing away grime and easing the stiffness in her limbs.

Her mind, however, remained restless.

If I'd just kept my head, I could've had him… she murmured, hands lathering her skin with soap. But no amount of frustration could deny the truth.

"I let that damn pervy clone of mine take over at the worst possible time," she admitted aloud, a reluctant laugh bubbling from her lips. The memory of her shadow clone pressing itself seductively against Hiruzen's clone was both mortifying and absurdly amusing.

"That clone acted like a horny lovesick teenager," she grumbled, cheeks darkening as the image returned to her unbidden. "Practically glued herself to him… no wonder I lost focus."

As her hands moved lower, skimming over her wet pubic mound and the sensitive skin between her thighs, she paused. Her breath caught as a familiar heat stirred inside her.

"What is wrong with me?" she whispered, barely audible over the sound of the shower. Her mind betrayed her with an image of Hiruzen, grinning, smug, and annoyingly unshaken. The way he looked at her, the way he spanked her, the firm press of his fundoshi-covered groin brushing against her hip, 

Her traitorous inner voice whispered, "I wonder if the old man is big…"

"Shut up, you perv," she hissed under her breath. "You're the reason I lost today. I had him... I had him!"

"Come on, you liked it too", the voice cooed back. "Those spank made your knees buckle…"

"Shut up!" she snapped at herself, but the thought lingered, insistent, crawling deeper into her belly as her fingers moved with renewed purpose.

Her hand slipped between her thighs, parting her slick folds with practiced ease. Her body trembled slightly, aching from more than just the spar.

"Minato…" she breathed, the name of her husband falling from her lips like a confession. Her fingers moved rhythmically now, drawing gentle, teasing circles. Desire pulsed through her, tangled with guilt and yearning.

Images of her husband filled her mind, his hands, so sure of her body, his mouth at her neck, the deep baritone of his voice whispering her name like prayer.

Her climax came in soft, shuddering waves under the warm spray of the shower, and with it, a shudder of release .

"Come home soon," she whispered, eyes closed, her voice trembling with emotion.

Meanwhile, in the guest quarters, Hiruzen stood beneath his own stream of hot water. His thoughts were, unsurprisingly, on the spar, and the redhead who had nearly taken him down.

"That was closer than I expected," he muttered, scrubbing his arms with deliberate strokes. His limbs and body were bruised just like Kushina, but more pronounced. Kushina was quite a strong woman and he would not like to face her in a serious battle.

If it wasn't for the fact that Hiruzen didn't neglect his ninja training even after retirement, he wouldn't have been able to do anything against the Uzumaki's overwhelming offensive. In fact, even so she had almost defeated him. No, she had actually defeated him. He was only saved at the last second as she lost her concentration by the mischievous play by one of her clones behind the bushes.

A grin pulled at his lips. "That clone of hers… what a wild thing."

He chuckled, remembering how Kushina's clone had practically thrown herself at his clone. If his own clone hadn't acted like some flustered virgin genin on his first date, things might've gotten interesting.

"I've heard shadow clones can be unpredictable," he mused, "but I didn't expect mine to act like a nervous schoolboy."

He laughed again, deep, hearty, and thoroughly amused.

"Why couldn't my clone be more like me?" he asked the tiled ceiling, water running down his face. "Confident. Composed. Maybe even just a little bold. Hell, I could've taken advantage of that sultry clone…"

His grin widened at the memory, and he shook his head.

"That means Kushina's got a perverted streak," he said aloud, chuckling. "With that fiery spirit of hers, it makes sense. No wonder one of her clones acted the way she did."

The memory lingered, how her clone's hips had pressed shamelessly into his, how her eyes had flickered with hunger and mischief.

"She's strong," he admitted. "But she's unpredictable… and clearly a closet perv." a grin blossomed on his face "A new thing I discovered today, i alway had doubts but it got confirmed today"

His eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "I wonder if I can coax that side out again."

As he finished up, Hiruzen dried himself off, wrapping a towel around his waist. His thoughts remained caught somewhere between amusement and vivid fantasy.

"Kushina Uzumaki," he murmured as he stepped out of the washroom. "You're full of surprises."

He took a moment to look around the guest quarters. The room hadn't changed much, but the memories it held came rushing back.

"Ah, it's been so long," he mused, pacing slowly. "I remember Biwako spent the night with her here, back when she was preparing for Kushina's delivery. I stayed in this room the night before Minato took her outside the village… to that sealed area."

The nostalgia faded quickly, replaced by a sly grin.

"If I'm here washing up…" His voice trailed off as a new thought crept in.

That means Kushina might be showering too.

A flash of heat sparked in his groin as the image formed in his imagination, a wet, nude Kushina, steam curling around her curves, moaning softly under the spray.

"I still remember that cute little moan she made at my place," he thought, his grin widening further. "When she took a bath there... logs, it was adorable."

He shook his head briskly, trying to snap himself out of it. "I can't just barge into her room," he muttered. "Knowing her, she probably has traps set up, or worse, that chakra seal matrix of hers."

Still, the temptation lingered.

With a sigh, he dressed quickly and returned to the main room. Settling into the chair with a practiced ease, he pulled out his pipe and began packing it with fresh tobacco.

As he lit the bowl and took a long drag, exhaling a thick plume of smoke, a mischievous twinkle returned to his eyes.

"I'll just wait for the redhead," he said to himself, relaxing back in the chair. "Let's see what surprises she has next."

--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH-------

Across Konoha, Motono Hiroshi still lay in his bed even though it was way past morning. The dark curtains prevented any light in the room as he stared at the dark ceiling, his mind trapped in a loop, fixated on the moment from events of the week. The moment the sexy redhead Kushina climbed that damn ladder. Her skirt had ridden up with every slow step, teasing him mercilessly. His hand on his morning wood which refused to go down.

He groaned softly, shutting his eyes and letting the memory twist into something more satisfying, something he wanted to happen.

In his mind, Kushina stood at the base of the ladder, brushing her fiery red hair aside, glancing back at him with a knowing, playful smirk.

"Motono-san," her voice lilted sweetly, almost singing to him. "I can't quite reach it. Could you spot me?"

His heart thudded in his chest as the fantasy played out. He stepped closer in his imagination, standing directly beneath her, close enough to catch the sweet scent of her perfume. It was a mix of wildflowers and something raw, something uniquely her. As she climbed higher, her skirt crept up, inch by slow inch, revealing those smooth, powerful thighs that haunted his dreams.

"I… I still can't reach it," she purred, shifting just enough that the hemline lifted to reveal the delicate lace trim lining the inside of her thighs.

Motono swallowed hard. His hands twitched at his sides. If he just reached out… if he just slid a hand up those thighs… she'd gasp, maybe even moan, shiver under his touch.

He imagined tilting his head up, his eyes drinking in the creamy expanse of her legs as she stretched higher. The fabric of her skirt clung tightly to the curve of her ass, and then, there.

His breath hitched. Her panties stretched taut across her perfect round cheeks. In his fantasy, they weren't the plain black cotton she had actually worn, they were sheer, lacy, see-through. Barely enough to hide the soft, inviting lips beneath. And he could see it now, the subtle wetness forming, a dark patch soaking through the center, the fabric molded tightly to her pussy.

In the fantasy, he stepped in, his voice a low murmur. "Don't worry, Kushina-san… I'll hold you steady."

His hands would slide around her hips, thumbs pressing gently into her flesh as his gaze zeroed in on the slick heat building between her legs.

"You're so helpful, Motono-san," she'd whisper coyly, and in his mind, she parted her legs just a little wider, offering him a perfect view of her needy slit, barely concealed by that soaked lace.

He imagined the soft gasp she'd make as he slid a hand up her inner thigh, brushing along the trembling edge of her panties.

"One more step," she'd said in reality, pulling him back from his haze. She didn't say it. She turned slowly, looking down at him, violet eyes filled with something dark, hungry.

"Do you like what you see, Motono-san?"

He groaned aloud in bed, his hand moving beneath the sheets.

He imagined her legs trembling as he reached up, sliding her panties down, inch by inch, revealing her glistening, pink folds, her pussy already swollen with need, wetness trailing down her thighs.

"Soon," he whispered in the darkness, his breath ragged as his hand worked on his hardened member. "One day you'll beg me for it."

He shifted beneath the sheets again, his body hot, his cock throbbing in his grip as the fantasy took over.

He saw himself continuing, his hands gliding up her thighs, her skin so warm, so soft. She let out a breathless moan, her body trembling as his fingers brushed the edge of her pussy lips, already slick with juices.

"Kushina-san…" he murmured, his voice thick with need. "You're so needy. Let me take care of you."

She bit her lip in his imagination, pretending to stay focused on the scroll above, but he knew better. Her legs shifted wider. Her hips gave the faintest roll against his hand.

His fingers pulled the panties down to her knees,and he adjusted her legs, widening them more, baring her soaked slit. The heat radiating off her was unbearable, and as his knuckles grazed her wet folds, he smiled.

"You're already dripping," he whispered. Pressing his palm against her, he felt how soaked she'd become for him.

Her breath hitched. She whimpered softly, "Motono-san...", but there was no resistance, only a trembling need that made him bolder.

He slid his fingers between her folds, parting her pussy slowly, deliberately, feeling her juices coat his fingertips. Her thighs trembled around him. She arched her back, pushing herself into his hand with an unspoken please.

"You're holding back, Kushina," he muttered darkly, his fingers circling her clit in slow, torturous motions. "But your body's begging."

In his mind, she moaned, moaned, and pressed her forehead to the shelf, hips rocking back against his fingers. His other hand slid up to grip her ass firmly, spreading her wider. Her panties pooled at her ankles.

He imagined her pussy glistening under the overhead light, her slickness dripping down her thighs.

"Such a perfect little cunt," he whispered.

He climbed the steps until his face reached the level of her ass leaned in, licking the curve of her ass, then dragging his tongue through her folds, tasting her arousal. Kushina moaned louder, her hips jerking as she rocked herself onto his mouth.

"Don't stop," she panted in his mind. That confident, sharp-mouthed kunoichi, reduced to nothing but moans and gasps under his tongue, to a simple woman in need. He held her tight, his mouth devouring her, her juices spilling onto his tongue.

Motono moaned under the sheets as he imagined the delicious taste of the female juices of the famous Red Hot-Blooded Habanero. "If it is of such beauty it must be splendid, nothing compared to the taste of any other woman.", his fist pumping his cock as the fantasy intensified.

He imagined her riding his face, grinding her wet pussy onto his mouth, moaning his name over and over. Her taste coated his tongue. Her juices dripped from his jaw. Her scent overwhelmed him.

But then his fantasy turned darker.

He imagined pulling her down and shoving her against the shelves. One hand pinned her wrists above her head, the other slipped between her thighs, spreading her again.

"You always act so untouchable, Kushina," he growled into her ear, his breath hot. "But look at you now… trembling, dripping, begging."

He imagined rubbing the thick head of his cock along her slit, teasing her entrance, coating himself in her slickness.

"Say it," he demanded. "Say you want it."

She whimpered, pressing back into him, but he held her still.

"Say it, Kushina," he growled.

Finally, she gasped it out, "I need it!"

He thrust deep into her soaked cunt, stretching her open, making her scream his name as he pounded into her hard and fast, over and over, until she was a mess of moans and sweat, her juices coating his cock with every thrust.

That thought alone sent him over the edge.

He groaned, loud, primal, as his climax slammed into him, his cock throbbing in his grip, thick ropes of cum spilling over his hand and pants, his breath ragged and uneven.

Collapsing back against his pillow, Motono's body trembled, chest heaving. The sheets were sticky, the room heavy with the scent of his release and sweat.

And still, the fantasy lingered.

"One day," he muttered in the dark, licking his lips. "One day, I'll have you exactly like that, Kushina."

--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH-------

Back in the Uzumaki compound, Kushina in white lace bra and maroon knickers, adjusted the hem of her maroon pencil skirt, tugging it just enough to ensure it clung smoothly to her hips down to just above knees. The snug fit accentuated every curve of her toned figure, outlining her ass and figure. She smoothed out the slight wrinkles in her sleeveless blouse, the fabric hugging her breasts and drawing attention to her waist. As she secured her long red hair into her signature high ponytail, a small, self-satisfied smirk tugged at the corner of her lips.

Today was going to be a busy day.

Descending the stairs with the quiet confidence her sharp eyes immediately caught sight of the old man already seated at the dining table. Hiruzen was sipping tea, his posture relaxed, expression calm, yet there was something in the subtle lift of his lips, a glint in his eyes that gave him away.

A mischievous undercurrent that gloated at having gotten away with it. A hidden smirk tucked just beneath his grandfatherly exterior.

Kushina crossed her arms under her chest and tilted her head slightly. "Had a shower, old man?" she teased, raising an eyebrow.

Hiruzen exhaled contentedly and set his cup down with a soft clink. "Of course. It was wonderful." He paused just long enough to make her wary, then added with a knowing wink, "But I bet your clone would have liked to watch me."

She felt an involuntary twitch at the corner of her eye but didn't rise to the bait. Not this time. She'd learned to brace herself against his teasing. Still, a faint flush crept up her neck as her mind flashed to the moment her clone had practically draped itself over his in the spar.

'Stupid clone. Acting like a horny brat in heat.'

"You should be grateful my clone wasn't there," she replied evenly, turning toward the kitchen. "Might have dragged you out for a scrub. With a steel brush."

Hiruzen chuckled but didn't push further. The twinkle in his eye said he enjoyed the mental image far more than he should have.

Kushina moved fluidly to the stove, grabbed the kettle, and filled it with water. The sharp hiss of the gas flame roaring to life beneath it was oddly satisfying. "Quick ramen, old man?" she asked over her shoulder.

Hiruzen made a face, the kind old people reserved for modern conveniences they secretly loved. "You young people and your obsession with instant food."

Kushina smirked. "Yeah, yeah. You still eat it every time I make it."

She retrieved two bowls with practiced ease and pulled out a few of Naruto's beloved orange-labeled ramen packets. But unlike her son, she didn't dump them in plain. She added soft-boiled eggs, sliced green onions, and a few thin cuts of grilled pork belly, elevating the simple meal into something rich, hearty, and undeniably satisfying.

Hiruzen watched her as she moved. There was something different about the way his gaze lingered, something contemplative, almost admiring. 

"You're adjusting well," he said suddenly.

Kushina glanced at him as she stirred the broth. "To what?"

"Everything. I mean, you just got your ass spanked." He waved a hand casually, as if talking about the weather. "You lost the bet again and haven't complained this time around..." His eyes twinkled as he leaned forward just slightly. "And you haven't threatened revenge. Yet."

She huffed. "It's been like an hour, old man. Give me some credit."

'And my ass still tingles from that last slap, you bastard.'

Hiruzen chuckled. "Oh, I do. More than you know."

They ate together in easy silence, the gentle clink of chopsticks and the occasional slurp of noodles the only sounds between them. But every time she shifted in her seat, Kushina was hyper-aware of the tight fabric of her skirt brushing against the lingering warmth on her skin, especially where his hand had landed earlier. The throbbing sensation still pulsed in the curve of her ass, igniting a subtle heat with each small movement.

Her thighs pressed together unconsciously beneath the table, trying to suppress the ache slowly blooming between them.

When they finished, Kushina stood and stretched, her arms rising overhead, blouse lifting her breasts jiggled and her figure accentuated . She tugged the hem of her skirt again. She didn't see Hiruzen's face as wild thought ran in his mind and he raced to control them

She reached for her bag. "Alright, let's get moving."

Hiruzen stood at a slower pace, brushing imaginary dust from his robe with deliberate grace. His gaze dipped, just for a second, to the curve of her hips, the way her skirt hugged that fine ass of hers like a gift wrapped just for him.

They stepped outside the compound together. Sunlight filtered through the trees, casting golden streaks across the village paths as they walked.

Another day awaited.

--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH-------

The walk to the Hokage Tower was mostly silent, punctuated only by respectful nods from civilians and shinobi who bowed as they passed. The morning air was crisp, and the rhythmic echo of two Hokage walking side by side filled the quiet space between them. Kushina didn't mind the silence. Hiruzen, for all his teasing, knew when not to speak.

Soon, they reached the towering structure that housed the heart of Konoha's administration. As they stepped through the large entrance doors, Kushina wasted no time.

"I'll see you later, old man," she said curtly, excusing herself from Hiruzen's side. Without waiting for a response, she turned on her heel and made her way toward the archive library.

She had work to do.

The proposal Shikaku had sent her needed to be reviewed thoroughly before she presented it to the ambassador. If the plan was executed well, the Fire Daimyo himself might get involved, if she could get the ambassador interested and involved in the project. That level of attention would give the project the momentum it needed.

As she neared the archive library, she couldn't help but marvel at the sheer number of shinobi who had registered for the event.

'So many names... so many eyes watching this already,' she mused, stepping into the cool, scroll-filled chamber.

The moment she entered, several shinobi stationed nearby stood straighter and bowed respectfully. Kushina gave a short nod before making her way to her usual corner.

Unsealing the scroll Shikaku had sent her, she spread it open across the polished wooden desk. Her fingers smoothed over the parchment instinctively, eyes scanning the content with focus and admiration.

The plan was impressive.

Taking cues from the Chunin Exams, Shikaku had proposed a four-stage elimination process, each round meant to escalate in intensity and strategy.

Round 1: A written exam, though the details were purposefully vague. Knowing Shikaku, it likely involved psychological tricks or stealth grading methods.

Round 2: A treasure hunt, forcing teams to clash and strategize for objectives.

Round 3: A solo race, testing chakra control, speed, endurance, and resilience.

Round 4: A grand, no-holds-barred battle royale in the main arena.

It was still a rough outline, but the concept had clear potential. More than just testing shinobi, it was a spectacle, a demonstration of Konoha's strength and ingenuity. If framed right, it could become an annual tradition, drawing attention far beyond the Fire Country.

But there were holes, details that would need hashing out in person with Shikaku.

Kushina rolled the scroll up and leaned back, her fingers rhythmically tapping the wood of the desk.

'Yes... this could work.'

She was just about to rise when she sensed three chakra signatures approaching. The chakra was familiar. Comforting, even. A small smile crept onto her lips.

'My team.'

Ryoichi Ikasume. Takahiro Kamano. Yoko Watane. 

Each one handpicked by her, newly assigned, newly sharpened. They had trained relentlessly these past few weeks, working as a unit, refining their techniques. Preparing.

The trio stopped in front of her table and bowed together, unified and respectful.

"Kushina-sama," Ryoichi was the first to speak. His voice was steady but full of excitement. It had been nearly two weeks since their last meeting, yet his eyes still burned with gratitude. "We still can't thank you enough for believing in us. For giving us this chance, not just to be promoted, but to train directly under you, if we succeed."

Kushina leaned back slightly, watching them all with a soft, fond gaze. The fire in their eyes reminded her of herself once. Young. Eager. Reckless.

Yoko stepped forward next, her posture straight. "Thank you, Kushina-sama. I won't disappoint you," she said with fierce determination.

Takahiro, the tallest of them all, nodded with silent conviction. "We'll give it everything we have. This opportunity isn't something we'll waste."

Kushina chuckled gently and shook her head. "I haven't done anything yet. All I did was open the door. Whether you walk through it and make something of yourselves... that's on you."

"But that's already more than we could've hoped for," Ryoichi replied quickly. "Before this, we were stuck in the archives, pushing paper, assisting others from the sidelines. If not for this, we'd probably be there forever." His hands clenched into fists. "We won't waste it."

Kushina studied them for a long moment, her arms crossing under her chest.

'So full of hope. That burning need to be seen. I know that look too well.'

She finally exhaled. "I hope you're training seriously, because this won't be easy. You're not just competing with rookies, you're going against some seasoned shinobi who've been here longer than some of you have been alive."

Yoko nodded quickly. "We've been sparring every day. We're tightening our coordination. We understand we won't survive if we can't move as one."

Takahiro grinned. "We've been reviewing old Chunin Exam records too. Studying what failed and what worked."

Kushina arched her brow, mildly impressed. "Smart. But that won't be enough. You need more. Know your own flaws. Guard each other's blind spots. And don't hesitate. Ever. The ones who freeze up... they're the ones who get carried out."

Ryoichi looked to his teammates, then returned his gaze to her. "Then train with us. Please. We need to see the difference between us and the real thing. Even if it's too much... we need to feel that gap."

Kushina let out a surprised laugh, one hand resting on her hip. "Oh? You really think you're ready for that?" She leaned in, her voice lower, edged with warning. "You might regret asking."

Yoko swallowed but didn't back down. "We know it'll be hard, but if we're going to survive this, we have to feel what elite combat really means."

Kushina stared for a moment, then smirked. "Alright. Tomorrow. Morning at 5 am. Training Field Sixteen. I'll see where you really stand."

The trio visibly straightened, their excitement impossible to hide.

"We won't let you down, Kushina-sama!" Takahiro promised.

She waved them off. "Don't thank me yet. Just show up ready. I won't be holding back."

As they turned and left, she watched them disappear down the corridor, her expression unreadable.

'They've got fire… but is that enough? Will they last even a round?'

She shook her head slightly and reached for her coat.

But not far behind, nestled in the deeper shadows of the archives, three more figures lingered, silent, hidden.

They had seen everything.

The moment Kushina stepped out of sight, Haihuen clicked his tongue.

"Did you see that? Damn Ryoichi got himself a squad... and now Kushina-sama's training them personally."

Baicho scoffed, cracking his knuckles. "I'm not letting that smug prick outshine me. No fucking way."

Shinsuke folded his arms calmly, always the strategist. "So? What's the plan?"

A slow, wicked grin curled Baicho's lips. "Plan?" He chuckled, slapping a fist into his palm. "We crash the party."

--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH-------

The moment Kushina stepped near the office of the Jōnin Commander's Office, she caught a familiar whiff of tobacco smoke drifting through the air. Her nose scrunched, and she exhaled sharply.

'That lazy bastard...'

She didn't bother knocking. With a firm push, she swung the door open and stepped inside Shikaku Nara's office.

As expected, the Jōnin Commander was exactly where he always was, slouched back in his chair, feet propped up on his desk, a cigarette lazily hanging from his lips. His half-lidded eyes barely flicked toward her as she entered, but they didn't miss the sharp silhouette of her hips or the way her blouse clung to her chest.

"Ah," he said in his usual drawl, eyes trailing down her figure before returning to her face. "You're here early."

Kushina folded her arms under her chest, her tone unimpressed. "And you're here being an absolute slob, as usual."

Her gaze flicked to the tendrils of smoke curling around his head.

"And didn't I tell you not to smoke indoors, lazyass?"

Shikaku blinked slowly and exhaled another puff. "It helps me think."

Kushina stepped forward, snatched the cigarette from his lips, and crushed it into the corner of his already overflowing ashtray. "Then think harder."

Shikaku sighed, stretching lazily. "Troublesome woman..." he muttered under his breath.

"What was that?" she shot him a glare that could've cracked glass.

"Nothing," he replied smoothly. "So? You finally read my plan?"

Kushina clicked her tongue. "Yeah, I read it. It's decent."

Shikaku raised an eyebrow. "Just decent?"

Kushina gestured toward the door. "Come with me. We need to discuss this properly in the meeting room."

He groaned, dragging his feet off the desk and rising to stand. "What a drag."

Kushina rolled her eyes and turned, walking ahead of him, hips swaying beneath her snug pencil skirt. Shikaku's eyes dropped instinctively, catching the subtle curve of her ass and the way the fabric hugged her thighs like a second skin.

'Damn... She really doesn't even try.'

They entered the adjacent strategy room. A large table stood at the center, surrounded by chairs. Kushina moved to it briskly, unsealing the scroll Shikaku had sent her and spreading it across the surface.

Shikaku dropped lazily into a chair, resting his chin in his palm. Kushina remained standing, hands planted on the wood, eyes flicking over the contents again.

"So," Shikaku tapped his fingers. "You don't like it?" He glanced up at the redhead, her blouse subtly rising and falling with her breath, the fabric tightening every time she leaned forward.

Kushina sighed. "I didn't say that."

He smirked. "You said 'decent.' That's practically an insult coming from you."

Her lips twitched. "Fine. I actually like it."

Shikaku gave a mock sigh of relief. "Finally, some recognition."

Kushina ignored his sarcasm and pointed at the scroll. "The four-stage elimination system is solid. Using a Chunin Exam-like format is smart. It filters out the weak early so only the most skilled reach the end."

He nodded. "That's the point. You can't throw thousands of shinobi into a single battle royale. It'd be a massacre."

She tapped Phase One. "Written exam with a twist. Explain."

"Simple," Shikaku said. "It's a written test, but they don't get the answers directly. They'll have to gather intel, cheat, eavesdrop. It mimics real-world missions, intel retrieval under pressure."

Kushina smirked. "So they have to cheat?"

"Only the clever ones," Shikaku grinned.

Kushina nodded. "Alright. I like that. But no automatic disqualifications. If they get caught, just penalize them. We don't toss out shinobi just for being a little sloppy."

"Fair," Shikaku agreed.

She moved to the second phase: Treasure Hunt.

"This one's interesting. Team combat, strategy, resource management. But there's a flaw."

"Oh?"

"What's stopping stronger teams from hiding until time runs out?"

Shikaku smirked. "Did you think I'd overlook that?"

Kushina narrowed her eyes. "Explain."

"It's a timed event. Each team needs to collect points by defeating other teams, stealing from them, or completing objectives. If a team hides and earns no points, they fail automatically."

Kushina grinned. "Now we're talking."

"Also," he added, "some treasures are traps. Some are fake. Only a few are real, and heavily guarded."

Kushina laughed. "You really made this a pain in the ass."

"That's the goal."

She moved to Phase Three: The Water Race.

"This one tests chakra control and speed," Shikaku explained. "But it's not a sprint. There are hazards, obstacles. They can attack each other, but no killing or drowning, immediate disqualification."

Kushina studied the section, then tapped her finger against it. "Make the course longer. Add multiple terrains, water, cliffs, rocky paths, dense forest. Make them adapt constantly."

Shikaku rubbed his chin. "Hmm. I like that. Forces chakra modulation."

"Exactly."

They reached the Final Phase: Battle Royale.

Shikaku leaned back. "Simple. No teams, no help. Everyone fights. Last one standing wins."

Kushina tilted her head. "Arena style?"

He nodded. "Big battlefield. Multi-tiered, few places to hide."

Kushina frowned. "Keep a few hiding spots. Strategy and ambushes are part of real shinobi combat."

Shikaku considered. "Alright. But just enough. No room for cowards to camp out the whole fight."

"Deal."

"So?" he asked. "Final verdict?"

Kushina crossed her arms beneath her chest, breasts shifting slightly beneath her blouse. "It's damn good. But I want the Fire Daimyo's rep to see it. If we get his backing, this could become a national event."

"You're aiming higher than annual now?"

Kushina smirked. "If it works? Maybe."

Shikaku stretched with a groan. "More work."

Kushina rolled her eyes. "You don't do half the work, lazyass."

He grinned. "Exactly. And I plan to keep it that way."

She scoffed, rolling up the scroll. "Get everything finalized. We will release the schedule soon."

He gave a mock salute. "Hai, hai, Deputy Hokage-sama."

"Shut up and get to work."

As she turned to leave, Shikaku muttered just loud enough, "Troublesome woman."

Kushina smirked.

Shikaku sighed, as if his eyes hadn't lingered too long on her cleavage while she leaned across the table. If she noticed, she didn't mention it. But given how clueless that woman was when it came to receiving male attention, he was sure she hadn't.

He wasn't entirely proud of it, but during the meeting, his thoughts had wandered more than once to his redheaded visitor. Even now, the cigar he'd lit and the smoke filling his lungs didn't help stop him from thinking about her.

Imagining how it would feel to touch that round buttocks hidden beneath that tight skirt, wondering whether to confirm with his own hands if her breasts were as firm to the touch as they seemed, wondering how he would run his hands over the curves of her body and what it would be like to have those soft, seductive lips pressed against his own or other parts of his body.

He was happily married to Yoshino and had no intention of ruining their marriage over stupid thoughts, but even so, the redhead's attractiveness made it very difficult not to have that kind stupid thoughts. Sometimes, he couldn't help but see her as more than just his friend's wife.

"Forgive me, Minato," he muttered under his breath, "but your wife is getting more troublesome by the day."

Outside Kushina as she walked through corridors she thought 'That lazy bastard really is good at what he does.' Her thoughts oblivious to the man's thoughts she had just met.

But first, she had a schedule to finalize.

'The idea of the test to collect information is good..... maybe it could also be used for future Chunin exams?'

--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH-------

Kushina took a deep breath as she made her way toward the Hokage's office, her heels clicking sharply against the polished wood floors of the Hokage Tower. Each step echoed her building tension. She knew exactly what awaited her behind that door.

The insufferable old man would not let her hear the end of it.

Her loss in their sparring match that morning still burned in her gut.

It was a bitter defeat, especially in her own home and her own grounds . And according to the spar's conditions that were set by her, it had been completely fair. But the old man was crafty. She had underestimated him... just a little.

Her own clone's behavior had thrown her completely off guard. One moment she and her clones were fighting with precision and aggression and had him cornered, the next she was face down on the floor with his knee jammed into her back, one of his wrinkled hands pinning her wrist to the ground while the other...

She groaned aloud, shaking her head violently.

"No. No, no, no. Don't think about it, Kushina!"

She gritted her teeth, determined not to let herself get flustered. She would not react to his teasing today. She made a vow to herself, she would stay cool, ignore his comments, and get through this like a professional.

But just as her hand touched the doorknob, an image she didn't want came slamming into her mind.

The old man standing above her in nothing but that damn fundoshi, the fabric clinging to a thick, heavy bulge, his smug smirk infuriating as sweat gleamed on his bare chest and toned arms. For a man his age, he was... built. That fundoshi had left nothing to the imagination.

Her face burned immediately as she clenched her fists.

'What the hell are you thinking, Kushina?!' she screamed in her mind. 'Focus on work! Not the old man's dick in that ridiculous loincloth!'

She sucked in a breath, held it, exhaled slowly, and pushed the door open.

Hiruzen was exactly where she expected him to be: seated behind his massive desk, pipe resting on its holder, stacks of neatly arranged documents around him. His mischievous eyes locked onto her the moment she entered, twinkling with delight.

"Ho, Kushi-chan!" he greeted far too enthusiastically, his tone soaked in amusement. "I didn't expect you back in the office today! Thought you might be too ashamed after your shameful little loss this morning."

Kushina bit down hard on the inside of her cheek to keep herself from snarling.

'Don't react. Don't react. Don't react.'

She forced a blank expression onto her face, walked forward with careful grace, and took her seat across from him without a word.

She exhaled sharply through her nose. "Hello to you too, old man," she said flatly. "I don't have time for your nonsense today, so don't disturb me. I need to study Shikaku's plan and decide which parts to present to Motono-san later."

Hiruzen chuckled, deep and knowing. That sound crawled under her skin.

"Haha, good, good," he said, leaning back comfortably in his chair. "You're learning. You didn't take the bait right away."

Kushina rolled her eyes and opened the scroll in front of her. "Be happy I'm busy, old man. Otherwise, I'd give you a taste of your own medicine." Her eyes lifted briefly, her lips tugging into a sly smirk. "And next time, I'm going to win."

Hiruzen's grin widened. His pipe clinked softly as he picked it up again. "Oh? Still have some bite in you? Good. I'd be disappointed if you didn't."

She didn't answer this time. Her fingers moved over the parchment with slow, deliberate focus, tracing the annotations. She shifted subtly in her seat, as she was busy reading. Unaware that Hiruzen's eyes had again drifted, studying her.

He watched the way her lips pressed together in focus, how the slight tension remained in her shoulders, a sign of frustration she was desperately trying to suppress.

He smirked to himself, letting his mind wander back to that morning.

Kushina had been fast, aggressive, unrelenting and had planned well as expected. But she had underestimated him, more importantly she hadn't expected her clone's act.

One moment, she was striking alongside her clones wild and untamed, sweat glistening on her skin, her breath heavy with exertion.

The next she was on the ground beneath him, pinned expertly, her legs trapped beneath his knee, her arms twisted behind her back.

And her perfect, round ass was raised slightly, her tight pants doing absolutely nothing to conceal the firm curves beneath them.

Hiruzen had chuckled then a deep, low chuckle that rumbled from his chest.

Pinned beneath him, face flushed, muscles trembling, her perfect round ass raised just enough for the fabric of her tight pants to stretch beautifully over her curves.

"Still too slow, Kushi-chan," he had murmured, watching her squirm against his hold. She had growled, cheeks flushed, strands of her crimson hair sticking to her skin, her muscles tensing as she struggled. But she couldn't break free.

He had rested one hand on her back, the other pressed lightly against her wrist, but his eyes had locked onto the shape of her ass. His hand had slid, just slightly, resting atop the curve.

And then, he'd spanked her.

It was meant to be playful. Provoking.

But her reaction...

The jolt of her hips, the sharp inhale of breath, and that startled moan she barely swallowed.

He had felt it.

And from the way her face flushed and her breath hitched, she'd felt it too.

Back in the present, Hiruzen puffed gently on his pipe, masking his amusement as he watched her frown deepen at the scroll completely unaware of his thoughts.

'This game between us... it's getting better every day,' he thought, his eyes lingering on the sway of her breasts each time she shifted. She didn't realize that when she crossed her legs, her skirt rode up just enough to reveal the edge of her thigh. Visible to him from his position That when she leaned forward, her blouse stretched across her chest, giving him a clear view of the curve of her breasts.

Hiruzen smiled slowly behind his pipe.

Yes. This game was only getting more interesting.

--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH-------

It was already past lunchtime when Kushina made her way toward Ambassador Motono's office. The midday sun cast long shadows across the cobbled streets leading to the residence-cum-office nestled near the administrative quarter.

"Today, I'll get him to approve my project, at least the pilot phase, and get it in front of the Fire Daimyo," she muttered to herself, clenching her fists lightly in determination.

As she approached the grand facade of Motono's converted residence, the shinobi guards at the gate straightened and bowed in greeting. They were well used to her visits by now, but her presence never went unnoticed. She wasn't just another official, she was Kushina Uzumaki, Deputy Hokage. Her name carried weight.

Stepping through the arched entranceway, she was immediately greeted, rather enthusiastically, by a familiar face.

"Kushina-san!" came the bright voice of Akashi, the Ambassador's nephew, standing at the base of the ornate staircase that led to the upper floors. He was dressed in a finely tailored charcoal kimono, his long hair tied into a formal topknot. The silk shimmered faintly under the natural light pouring through the high windows, and his sharp eyes gleamed with mischief.

"You're here again?" he spoke, leaning against the stair rail with practiced nonchalance. "Is my uncle giving you trouble?"

Kushina huffed a light laugh, one hand falling to her hip. "Hello to you too, Akashi-kun," she said with an amused shake of her head. "I'm here to discuss a new project with Motono-san. And no, he's not causing trouble, why would he?"

As she ascended the stairs, Akashi smoothly fell into step beside her, hands tucked inside his sleeves like a proper young noble. His gait was calm, refined, and his eyes were glued on her form more specifically her ass..

"Ah, nothing. Just joking," he said lightly, glancing at her sideways. "But my uncle is... let's say, a bit too traditional. If he doesn't understand something new right away, well... I wouldn't be surprised if he resisted."

Kushina was about to reply when she sensed the ambassador ahead. Her eyes flicked upward toward the hallway above, where Ambassador Motono himself stood, tall, dignified, and already staring down at them. His gaze was fixed directly on his nephew.

"Oh? And what is it that I don't understand, nephew?"

Motono's voice was smooth, but Kushina could hear the underlying tension beneath the politeness. The way his lips curved into a smile was pleasant enough, but the slight narrowing of his eyes as he regarded Akashi gave away his displeasure.

'This punk. He's trying to claw onto my plans again,' Motono thought, biting back the urge to put his nephew in his place right there in front of her.

Akashi didn't flinch. Instead, he gave a practiced, elegant bow, the perfect image of humility, and smoothly switched to formal Japanese.

"Oh, nothing, uncle."

Then, in a tone far more relaxed, he added, "I was simply telling Kushina-san how we're open to new ideas. And, of course, I reminded her that I, too, have connections to the nobles in Daimyo-sama's court. So while you're busy with your official duties, I'd be happy to assist with any developments requiring a younger voice. I am learning under you, after all."

He smiled politely, but Kushina wasn't blind. There was something blade-sharp behind that smile, a quiet challenge barely veiled beneath noble civility.

Motono's own smile deepened, but it was a predator's grin.

"Ho, no need to worry about Kushina-san's ideas, Akashi," he said, his tone light but unmistakably final. "As Ambassador, it is my responsibility to ensure smooth cooperation between the Hokage's Office and the Fire Daimyo's court."

Kushina caught the subtle shift in his tone. The faintest hardening of the edges.

"Why don't you focus on the report Asuma-san sent recently?" Motono added casually. "I trust you haven't read it yet?"

There was a subtle taunt in his voice, just enough to sting.

'Back off, you punk. She's my target,' Motono thought coolly.

For a moment, the tension crackled between them like charged wire.

Then Akashi offered a perfect, measured nod. "Of course, Uncle. I'll attend to it immediately."

He bowed again, so perfectly composed that it was easy to miss the brief flicker of irritation in his brow.

As he turned and walked away, Kushina tilted her head, watching the younger man disappear down the corridor. Then she turned to the Ambassador with a faint chuckle.

"So, Akashi-kun is learning, huh?" she mused, her tone half-teasing.

Motono exhaled, shaking his head ever so slightly. "Of course. I'm training him, after all." He offered one final smirk toward where his nephew had gone. "He'll be an ambassador someday. To some small, distant country."

Kushina raised an eyebrow and nodded in understanding.

'Far away from Konoha. Far away from me, And far away from my Kushina' he thought.

With a composed gesture, Motono clasped his hands behind his back and looked at her with cool professionalism.

"Come, Kushina-san. Let's move to my office and discuss today's agenda."

Kushina nodded, stepping in line beside him as they entered his private office. The secretary 'Yukino' at the doors bowed to them as they entered inside.

The ambassador's office was as usual, filled with immaculately arranged bookshelves, a large wooden desk, and a grand window overlooking the village below.

As soon as they stepped inside, Motono gestured toward a luxurious chair opposite his desk. "Please, have a seat."

Kushina sat back in her chair, crossing her legs as she adjusted the scroll on the desk. The soft fabric of her skirt hitched up slightly, exposing just a bit more of her toned thighs. She didn't pay it any mind but Motono did.

His sharp eyes flickered toward her bare legs, trailing upward before he licked his lips, moving to his own seat with practiced composure. If she noticed his lingering stare, she didn't let it show.

With a flick of her wrist, she unsealed a neatly rolled scroll from her pouch, spreading it across the desk and smoothing it out with her fingertips before looking up at him.

Motono removed his haori, folding it over the back of his chair before lowering himself gracefully into his seat. His fingers steepled together, and he regarded her with a casual, almost amused interest.

"So, tell me, Kushina-san," he said smoothly, his lips curving slightly. "What project was my nephew so enthusiastically talking about?"

Kushina grinned, undeterred by his dry tone.

"Nothing crazy," she said lightly, her voice carrying a hint of teasing. "It's the same initiative I've mentioned in our past meetings. A large-scale shinobi evaluation project designed to test the best of Konoha's forces while drawing international attention and, ideally, financial backing from the Daimyo."

Motono let out a low chuckle, shaking his head as if recalling their previous discussions.

"Ah, that."

Kushina's grin widened. "See? It's simple."

Motono's eyes flickered toward the scroll, then back to her, but not before briefly settling somewhere else.

Her cleavage.

It wasn't much, her blouse being professional but form fitted, just modest enough. But he still looked. He couldn't help but look. His mind goes to fantasies in the morning.

He moved past it quickly, masking his infatuation beneath his usual business-like expression.

"Go on."

Kushina leaned forward slightly, placing her hands on the scroll, her voice firm and confident.

"This is a four-phase elimination tournament, an elite shinobi trials event. Think of it like the Chūnin Exams, but focused exclusively on experienced shinobi, testing them through a series of grueling trials."

Motono hummed, nodding as he listened. But Kushina caught something off about his focus. His gaze lingered not on the scroll, not even on her eyes.

But on her lips.

And then, her chest again.

'Tch. What's he doing?' she thought irritably but kept her expression impassive.

"And the goal?" he asked, almost absentmindedly.

Kushina tapped the scroll.

"To refine the abilities of our second-string shinobi, the ones who aren't quite elite yet but have the potential to be. If successful, this could be a springboard for a formalized ranking system." She sat back slightly, crossing her arms. "If this succeeds, we can hold it annually or biennially, increasing prestige and strengthening Konoha's Military."

Motono raised an eyebrow, finally snapping back to the actual discussion.

"Political leverage?"

Kushina nodded. "If we have the Daimyo-sama's involvement, it becomes more than just an internal shinobi event. It becomes a Fire Country-sponsored tradition. And if other nations take interest…"

Motono's lips curled into a slow smirk.

"Then it becomes something bigger than just Konoha."

Kushina grinned, her eyes flashing with satisfaction.

"Exactly."

Motono leaned back, exhaling deeply, his eyes subtly roaming over her features. She could feel him observing her, assessing her excitement, her enthusiasm, but she had no idea that he was appreciating something else entirely.

"This… is ambitious," he admitted, his tone suggesting it bordered on unrealistic. "The Daimyo and his nobles don't open their wallets for just anything. Konoha already has considerable strength, reputation and funding. I don't think they feel the need to do more."

Motono could easily imagine how the Daimyo's court would dismiss Kushina's proposal as unnecessary and a waste of money.

If there were an actual war, rather than just heightened tensions or even whispers of an impending invasion on the Daimyo's lands, it might be easier to convince them. But in times like these, with the cold war dragging on, getting them to invest in a large-scale initiative like this would be an uphill battle.

The nobles were fools, but not complete fools. The cold war had been simmering for years, and in their minds, no other nation would dare break it unless provoked directly by their respective Daimyo. And that, they believed, was unlikely, given how frail and overly cautious most nobles were. It would have been a different case entirely if the Land of Fire were smaller, like the surrounding countries without hidden villages. In that scenario, convincing the Daimyo's court might have been much easier. Smaller nations relied heavily on spectacle and public displays of strength to maintain political relevance, something this tournament could have offered in spades.

Not to mention the possible problems of internal politics. It was certain that a good number of nobles would look askance at Konoha continuing to grow stronger, with no real need in sight. They might feel that their authority was being challenged or fear that Konoha would want to build up forces to supplant the Daimyo and take over the country.

The Twelve Guardian Ninja still held diverging opinions on Konoha's growing power.

Kazuma, the most vocal among them, along with his loyal faction, frequently criticized the current order. Their ideas concerning internal politics and who truly deserved to rule the Land of Fire were not entirely new. Motono, more moderate in temperament, was well aware that certain nobles quietly endorsed Kazuma's views—some even within the Daimyo's own court.

After all, the nobility had long been wary of allowing a militarized village like Konoha to grow too powerful, fearing that an overly dominant "war dog" might eventually turn on its masters. No noble wanted to stake their influence only to be discarded, or worse, killed, once they were no longer useful.

It was precisely because of the current cold war-like tension between the great villages that most factions remained quiet, choosing political patience over open confrontation. But Motono knew better. He could feel it beneath the silence: something was brewing. And it wouldn't stay hidden for long.

But this was an opportunity for him as well that he won't miss, he saw as Kushina tilted her head slightly.

"But worth it."

Motono drummed his fingers against the desk, then nodded.

"Hmm. Before taking this to the Daimyo-sama, we need to publicize it."

Kushina's brow furrowed slightly.

"Publicize? How?"

Motono smiled knowingly.

"Oh, leave that to me." He leaned forward, resting his forearms on the desk. "I have connections to Fire Emblem, you know, the most popular magazine in the Fire Country."

Kushina blinked, straightening slightly.

"Fire Emblem?"

She had heard of it. Read a few issues. It was a relatively new publication, having started four to five years ago, but it was already gaining massive popularity among both civilians and shinobi alike. It was well-respected, widely distributed, and had featured some of the most influential figures in Fire Country's political and shinobi circles.

If her project got covered there…

"Yes, Fire Emblem," Motono continued smoothly, watching the realization dawn on her face. "I had invited one of their reporters to Konoha recently to gather material for an article. But I think we can offer them something more, a joint interview."

Kushina's brows lifted slightly.

"A joint interview?"

Motono nodded, his smirk widening.

"And I think it would be especially good for you, Kushina-san." He gave her an appraising look. "After all, you are the first female shinobi leader in the Elemental Nations. That alone makes for an enticing story."

Kushina's eyes narrowed slightly, though she kept her face neutral.

She was aware that Fire Emblem had covered stories about her before when she was announced as deputy hokage, along with articles about Minato, Tsunade, that damn pervert Jiraiya, and even Hiruzen. Some of those past articles had highlighted her status as the first woman to hold a leadership position at this level.

She knew what Motono was implying.

"I'm not sure about this, Motono-san," she said, her voice cautious.

Motono leaned in slightly, pushing the advantage.

"Come now, Kushina-san." His tone was smooth, persuasive. "This will be a good thing. A joint interview with me-" he smiled, "-will ensure that the project is understood clearly by the masses. And don't worry, I know the magazine's owner and editors personally."

He gave her a reassuring nod, his tone dropping slightly, as if to ease her concerns.

"They won't publish anything that we don't approve of. This is simply a way to give your idea the momentum it needs. If the people support it, it will be much easier to convince the Daimyo."

Kushina bit her lip slightly, contemplating.

He wasn't wrong. If Fire Emblem featured this on their front page, the public would definitely take notice. And with enough popular support, the Daimyo's court would be far more likely to back the initiative.

But she had never done an interview like this before, and she wasn't comfortable making her project, one that hadn't even received official approval, fully public just yet. If she failed to secure the Daimyo's support and financial backing, she would end up making a fool of herself in front of the entire village, and this was her first project as deputy Hokage.

"But taking such chances will definitely help " she thought.

After a brief pause, she finally sighed, nodding.

"…Alright. I'll do it."

Motono's smirk widened subtly, his fingers tapping lightly against the desk.

"I had already invited him for an article," he said with a thoughtful smile. "But this works out well—he can conduct our interview too."

He leaned back, visibly pleased. "The reporter is already arriving in Konoha in three days. I'll make all the arrangements and inform him right away."

"Three days?" Kushina blinked, surprised. "That's... quite soon."

The ambassador chuckled warmly. "Don't worry. We'll schedule it for next week, after he wraps up his other tasks."

Kushina sighed in relief and offered a grateful nod. "Thank you," she said, standing up. She rolled up the scroll and tucked it back into her pouch before turning to Motono with one final nod and making her way out.

As she stepped out of his office, her mind was already spinning with the new development.

She missed the way Motono's gaze lingered on her retreating form, his eyes trailing down to the sway of her hips.

"Hmm… This will be quite interesting."

His smirk deepened as he leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepling together once more.

"Yukino" He called out

--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH--------TBH-------

The afternoon sun cast golden rays through the delicate paper screens of the private Hyūga Onsen, bathing the mist-covered hot spring in a warm, ethereal glow. The soft gurgle of water echoed beneath the steady hum of cicadas. From the surrounding gardens, the faint scent of sakura blossoms drifted in, blending with the natural mineral aroma of the steaming springs.

Kushina, having planned this get together with her friends had taken off from office early, She let out a slow, contented sigh as she sank deeper into the steaming water, her crimson hair fanning out like silk across the surface. Her pale skin shimmered under the golden light, slick with moisture. Across from her, Mikoto Uchiha and Hitomi Hyūga reclined just as lazily, their nude bodies glistening with heat and steam. The still surface of the spring reflected their smooth curves, breasts gently bobbing above the waterline, the tips of their nipples occasionally peeking through the rippling surface.

They knew they would have to leave soon to pick up the children, but for now, they had found a rare, private moment of peace.

"So, an interview with Fire Emblem, huh?" Mikoto mused, swirling the water with her fingers as her breasts floated in full view. Her voice was casual, but her gaze was playful. "How does it feel to be the most talked-about woman in Fire Country?"

Hitomi chuckled beside her, reclining back so her thighs rose just beneath the water's surface. "They've already done a few spreads on you, Kushina. You're practically a youth and fashion icon now."

Kushina groaned and tossed her head back, arms spreading along the edge of the spring. The motion caused her chest to lift just enough for her breasts to break the water's surface, nipples peeking out and glistening with beads of steam. The warm air teased her exposed skin, but she paid it no mind.

"Oh, come on. Me? A fashion icon? That's ridiculous!"

Mikoto's dark eyes gleamed as she leaned in slightly, watching a drop of water trail from the slope of Kushina's breast down to her taut belly.

"Is it, though?" she purred. "Have you actually looked at yourself?"

Kushina waved a dismissive hand. "I dress the same way I always have!"

Hitomi rolled her eyes. "Kushina, you could walk through the village in a potato sack and men would still break their necks to get a look."

Mikoto smirked and shifted closer, the water parting gently as she moved. "Oh, Kushi-chan, you've always been so adorably oblivious to the way people look at you."

For a moment, Kushina's mind flashed to scenes she hadn't meant to recall, the way the Daimyo of the hot springs capital had looked at her, the hunger in his eyes... or more recently, the Ambassador Motono's gaze subtly dropping to her chest and thighs.

She frowned, shaking her head to dispel the thoughts.

"What do you mean?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

Mikoto drifted even closer through the water until her knees brushed Kushina's under the surface. Her wet fingers glided along Kushina's arm with a feather-light touch, trailing up to the outer curve of her breast. Then, as if completely by accident, her fingertips lightly grazed Kushina's nipple, which was already semi-firm from the heat and teasing air.

Kushina inhaled sharply, her chest rising as her nipple stiffened under the delicate touch. But Mikoto simply smiled and continued speaking as if nothing had happened.

"You seriously don't see it, do you? The nobles? The Daimyo's wife? The shinobi, the merchants, the civilians, they don't just admire you for your combat record. They're drawn to you."

Kushina tensed, the memory of that graze lingering like an echo across her breast, but her focus returned to the conversation.

"That's ridiculous," she said flatly. "It's political. The Daimyo's wife and the other nobles want favors from Konoha. That's all. They don't care about my looks."

Hitomi gave her a knowing smirk. "Oh really? Then explain why the Daimyo's wife personally sent you extravagant gifts. Especially the expensive lingerie, jewelry, and perfumes?"

"That's just... nobles being noble," she muttered.

Mikoto chuckled softly and reached out again, her fingers circling Kushina's nipple under the water, then giving it a playful pinch.

"M-Mikoto!" Kushina gasped, her hips shifting as she jerked in surprise. The motion sent soft ripples across the spring, her wet thighs brushing Mikoto's under the surface.

Mikoto only grinned. "Oh, hush, Kushi-chan. I'm just making sure you're paying attention."

Hitomi gave an exaggerated sigh. "You really don't get it, do you?" She leaned forward, breasts bobbing in the water as she flicked a bit of warm spring water at Kushina's shoulder. "Let's go over a few things, shall we?"

She smirked. "Remember when you walked through the hot springs capital market with the Daimyo? You told us about it." Kushina nodded that she had indeed told about that but not about her outfit.

Kushina crossed her arms, water lapping gently around her chest. "Yeah. People kept staring. I thought it was because I was a foreign kunoichi walking beside him."

Mikoto laughed, her voice low and melodic. "Oh no, honey. Did you not wonder why all those noblemen were falling over themselves to gift you silks and spices?"

Hitomi leaned back with a lazy stretch, her nipples just barely above the water. The Hyūga woman was enjoying this far too much. "You were literally surrounded by merchants and dignitaries. Half of them wanted to impress you. The other half may have wanted to own you."

Kushina inhaled sharply, her mind flashing back to that day, the festival, the merchants eagerly presenting their offerings, the feel of anklets being slid onto her bare feet by a merchant who had knelt before her with a reverence that felt more intimate than it should have.

Mikoto chuckled again, moving even closer now. With deliberate ease, her hand slipped underwater and caressed Kushina's damp side before finding her breast once more. Her fingers gently pulled at her now hardened nipple, rolling it between her thumb and forefinger.

Kushina jerked in place, a breathy gasp escaping her lips as her thighs pressed together instinctively.

"Mikoto…" she warned, voice low, but it lacked conviction.

Mikoto leaned in close, lips just beside Kushina's ear.

"You're magnetic, Kushi-chan," she whispered. "They all want to touch you. Worship you. Slide their hands across your perfect skin. Taste the wetness between your thighs. And do things to you"

Kushina's cheeks flamed crimson, her body trembling subtly under the water as she tried to ignore the growing ache between her legs. Her pussy throbbed gently even in water, and she could already feel her juices mixing with the warm spring water, heat building under the surface.

Mikoto smirked and added slyly as her fingers continued to play with Kushina's sensitive nipple, circling and teasing her with growing confidence. "I'm sure some of them called you elegant and captivating, didn't they? Even the most powerful men in the land were drawn to you. And..." she tugged again, this time with a firmer roll between her fingers, her voice dropping into a low, playful purr, "they might have speculated that you had the Daimyo wrapped around your finger?"

Kushina blinked, her breath catching in her throat. Her naughty inner voice laughed gleefully inside her mind.

Because, damn it, Mikoto wasn't wrong.

'Shit, that's exactly what people thought.'

She suddenly recalled the whispers she had overheard that day. The murmurs of jealous women, the not-so-subtle admiration from the men, the way the Daimyo himself had watched her with amusement as his court buzzed about her presence.

Kushina bit the inside of her cheek, her thighs tightening under the water.

"Did you forget how those two brats had asked you?" her naughty self whispered again, teasing.

Her pussy gave an involuntary throb beneath the surface, the warm water doing nothing to dull the heat pooling deep inside her.

Mikoto giggled softly, flicking Kushina's nipple again, this time harder, with a practiced twist that made Kushina twitch and let out a stifled moan.

"See, you clueless minx," Mikoto smirked. "You thought they were admiring your diplomacy. But half of them were fantasizing about stripping you bare and fucking you against the very columns of the Daimyo's palace."

Kushina opened her mouth to protest, cheeks flushed, but Hitomi cut in smoothly with a wicked grin of her own.

"Or… did you forget about those piercings already?"

Kushina froze.

Her body stiffened, a shudder rolling down her spine. Her face flushed deep red, and a new wave of heat flooded her stomach, this time not from the onsen, but from the intimate, shameful memory that erupted unbidden.

The piercings.

Delicate, masterfully crafted pieces of gold and ruby. Body jewelry given to her wrapped in velvet-lined silk, presented as a "token of admiration" from one of the ministers. Kushina had told herself at the time that it was just a diplomatic gift. Nothing more.

But when Mikoto and Hitomi had told her what they were when she was back…. that night...

Curiosity had betrayed her. Alone in her room, she had tried them on. Full set completely as it was intended. With nothing else on her body. No robe. No underwear. Just her bare skin, and those ornaments sliding into place over her slit and nipples.

Her breath hitched, nipples hardening under the water, her pussy already wet and pulsing from the memory.

She had felt the cool press of the metal against her skin... one bar hooked gently on the soft flesh of her nipples... a ring designed to sit snug against her clit, grazing the tender slit of her folds. She had gasped when she adjusted it. Her juices had started to flow without even realizing it, her body reacting like it knew what the gift truly meant.

And now, now she saw it clearly.

'Shit. That definitely wasn't a noble gift.'

It was an offering. A silent, shameless desire, dressed in gold and jade.

Mikoto and Hitomi watched the storm shift across her face. The wide eyes. The parted lips. The color rising in her cheeks.

And then the dawning realization.

Kushina let out a long groan and buried her face in her hands.

"...Shit," she muttered aloud, her voice muffled by her palms, legs rubbing subtly together under the surface, her slit already warm and soaked.

Mikoto and Hitomi burst into laughter, water sloshing as they leaned back, thoroughly enjoying her flustered unraveling.

Hitomi leaned in closer, resting her chin lightly on Kushina's shoulder, her breath warm against damp skin.

"And let's not forget the Daimyo's wife."

Kushina tensed slightly, shoulders drawing in. "What about her?"

Hitomi smirked, her voice low and teasing. "She sent you expensive lingerie and custom-tailored dresses, and yet you thought it was just a formal gesture."

Kushina scoffed softly. "It was."

Mikoto laughed, the sound rich and sultry, her lips brushing dangerously close to Kushina's ear. "Oh, Kushi-chan. You sweet, innocent fool. That woman personally selected those outfits for you. She didn't send them out of duty. She sent them because she's interested."

Kushina flushed a deep, mortified red, her hands moving instinctively to cover her chest, even though she was already nude and sitting waist-deep in the steaming onsen. The water lapped against her breasts, teasing her already sensitive nipples that still tingled from Mikoto's earlier teasing.

"That's not… "

Hitomi cut her off with a mischievous smirk. "And don't get us started on the way the men here in Konoha watch you. Watch you a lot." She repeated it slower, her voice dripping with amused emphasis.

"You two are exaggerating. I'm the Deputy Hokage, it's a position of authority. Of course people will turn to look, out of reverence or admiration. It happens to Minato too."

People on the outside who didn't know her were one thing, but Kushina refused to believe that those within the village, who knew she was married, would look at her with anything resembling desire. Mikoto and Hitomi had clearly grown bored and were letting their imaginations run wild again. Instead of rebutting, her friends simply gave her those fake, tender, and amused looks, the kind reserved for watching a blushing, tsundere girl awkwardly deny she's in love with the boy she clearly likes. Except in this case, it wasn't a shy schoolgirl they were teasing, but a grown, powerful woman who stubbornly refused to admit just how sexy she truly was… and how many people openly desired her.

"You really can't see it, can you?" Mikoto shook her head, her voice laced with playful pity. "Gods, I knew your crush on Minato had stunted your development as a woman, but I didn't think it was this bad. Right, Hitomi?"

"It's true," Hitomi said, propping her cheek in her palm with mock concern. "Your love story, him rescuing you, your adorable little bond, is sweet, sure. But if I'd known it would leave you blind to the rest of the world, I would've tried to slow things down between you and Minato."

"Hey!" Kushina glared at them, her eyes sharp and suspicious. "What are you two even talking about?"

"About how you've only ever had eyes for Minato since we were teenagers," Mikoto replied bluntly, grinning wide. "You ignored every other guy who tried to get close to you. You never learned how to handle attention, Kushina. And now, you can't even tell when someone's flirting with you."

Kushina frowned, looking at Mikoto as if she'd just spoken nonsense. "What are you talking about? Minato was the only one who ever liked me."

"See what we mean?" Hitomi pointed at her in a mock accusation. "That right there! When we were younger, you had boys lining up like puppies, wagging their tails, hoping you'd just look at them. You never noticed."

"That's not true-"

"It is, and it wasn't just limited to boys our age. Even some sempais and men we didn't know would turn around to look at you, even if only briefly, when you were around. Looking back, it seems kind of silly how you never seemed to notice the signs."

"Is that so? And what signs are we talking about exactly?" Kushina asked skeptically, not believing what she was hearing.

"How about how they seemed quite interested in your hobbies, your tastes, how your day was, and things like that?"

"Or how you used to complained about how ever you went to Ichirakus alone, it bothered you how someone would always show up at the right time trying to get you to talk, and they would grab onto any excuse to chat with you as long as possible?"

"How always, they tried to spend time with you by inviting you to training, tea parties, movies, or festivals. There were even those who tried to disguise their intentions by making them seem like social events by doing it in groups."

"How guys were extremely kind, complimenting you on how good you looked, your voice, your eyes, your personality, and other things were. Or they were attentive and total gentlemen to you, paying for things for you, and showing a politeness they didn't show to other people."

"And my favorite, how you could make the attitude and mood of any guy who talked to you crumble and change their way of being around you when they found out you had a boyfriend."

Mikoto and Hitomi had no qualms about listing each of the supposed signs that Kushina had always ignored.

The Uzumaki's response was to blink with an expression of disbelief.

"..... Is that really how you saw things back then?"

"Let me give you an example," Hitomi said, raising a finger. "Do you remember Kenji? From the academy? Did you know he liked you? A lot?"

"What? No way!" Kushina said, her brows knitting in confusion. Kenji? She remembered him vividly. Kenji Takane, one of the boys who constantly teased her about her red hair. He used to pull at it every chance he got, even though she kicked his ass repeatedly in return. He had even been the one who gave her that stupid nickname, "Tomato," a name that had haunted her for years.

She couldn't imagine him liking her.

"Really?" Hitomi raised an eyebrow. "Then why do you think he started being all nice and friendly with you when we became chunin… when you hit puberty?"

"Because... because he matured and realized he was being a jerk?" Kushina guessed. That had always been her assumption. She hadn't given it much thought.

"Yeah, sure, he matured," Hitomi leaned in with a smirk, tapping a finger near her waist. "But mostly down here, and trust me, after that, most of his thinking came from there too, just like every boy his age."

Kushina's eyes widened, her expression twisting in discomfort and disbelief as the implication sank in.

She crossed her arms and sat back, slowly piecing together memories she hadn't re-examined in years. Conversations. Accidental brushes of contact. Compliments she'd dismissed as throwaway remarks. Lingering looks she'd written off as meaningless or respectful deference.

Even distant whispers that trailed behind her when she passed through the corridors… she'd always assumed they were talking about her rank or her fiery reputation. But maybe not all of them were.

And it wasn't just the past. Her mind flicked to more recent events, like the orientation session she'd given to the senior academy class. She remembered the overly eager responses, the unusually prolonged eye contact from some of the older boys. A few of them had fidgeted awkwardly in their seats, blushing whenever she made direct eye contact. At the time, she'd thought it was nervousness in front of the Deputy Hokage.

But now...her eyes narrowed slightly, lips parting in quiet realization. 'Were they... actually checking me out? Had I really been that oblivious?' she thought. 

Mikoto grinned to see her so distracted, her hand still under the water. With no warning, she gave Kushina's nipple another flick, firmer this time.

Kushina let out a soft, startled moan, jerking in the water. "Mikoto!" she hissed, glaring.

Mikoto smirked, unapologetic. "See? You react more to my teasing than you do to the obvious attention from men. That's why you never notice it."

Kushina huffed and sank deeper into the water, her cheeks still burning from the exchange. The surface rippled gently around her collarbone as she crossed her arms, trying to retreat into herself.

"Tch. Whatever. I still think it's all political maneuvering," she muttered, but her voice lacked conviction. There was no weight in her denial.

Mikoto and Hitomi exchanged a knowing glance before bursting into synchronized laughter, their bare shoulders shaking, water sloshing gently around them as they leaned back, their mirth echoing against the steam.

Kushina glared at them through narrowed eyes, refusing to meet their gaze. She kept her focus fixed on the surface of the water, watching the ripples shimmer and break around her breasts. But even as she avoided their eyes, the weight of their words lingered.

Her mind drifted back... to the eyes that lingered too long... the merchants and nobles who gave her silks and perfumes not for diplomacy, but for desire. The subtle worship in the way they spoke, not to a shinobi, not to a leader, but to a woman.

Her heart kicked in her chest, an unfamiliar flutter settling in her stomach. A slow warmth spread between her legs. Her pussy tingled softly beneath the surface, the mix of heat and shameful realization fueling her body in ways she didn't want to admit.

Mikoto's smirk widened as she moved in closer, her wet fingers reaching up to gently trail along Kushina's jawline. Her touch was light, teasing, slow. She tilted Kushina's face upward until their eyes met.

"Face it, Kushi-chan," Mikoto whispered, her voice sultry and low, laced with affection and heat. "You're not just a leader."

She leaned in, breath brushing against Kushina's lips, her gaze unwavering.

"You're a goddamn goddess. And the whole damn world knows it… except you."

As Mikoto continued exploration Kushina shivered, her lips parting slightly at the sheer conviction in Mikoto's words. Her breath came faster, chest rising and falling, the soft peaks of her nipples barely breaking the surface of the water. Her thighs clenched beneath the surface, her slit now slick with arousal. The heat between her legs had grown, her pussy throbbing gently from the teasing and the truth she didn't want to hear.

She pulled away from Mikoto's touch suddenly, shaking her head, voice cracking.

"I still don't believe it."

But even as she said it, her mind betrayed her.

Her thoughts shifted….unbidden….to the recent spar with Hiruzen.

The way the old man had pinned her down. The pressure of his body against hers. The firm grip of his hand on her wrist. And the other...

Resting on her ass. Palming her. Holding her in place. The sensation of his fingers spreading over her curves. That spank.

Her breath caught in her throat. Her pussy pulsed.

'No... no way. That was just training... right?'

But she couldn't shake it. The way his eyes gleamed when she was beneath him. It wasn't just about victory. There had been something else. Something primal. Something that made her wet even now, despite her shame.

She clenched the stone edge beneath the water, her fingers curling tight against it, the warmth in her belly radiating downward, her juices now mixing silently with the steaming bath.

Mikoto and Hitomi didn't speak. But they were watching. Closely.

They saw the way Kushina's expression flickered. The subtle shift in her breath. The clenching of her thighs. The grip of her fingers beneath the water.

Mikoto smirked, her voice dripping with mischief. "Come on, Kushina, I think even Hizashi would fall for you."

Kushina snorted, the sudden laughter pulling her out of her spiraling thoughts.

"No way that's true." She waved a hand dismissively, the water sloshing around her glistening breasts. "The Hyūga, Hizashi especially, wouldn't react like that." Her tone was firm, almost defiant.

It was well known all across Konoha that Hyūga Hizashi was a nobleman of rigid discipline, and ever since the death of his wife, he hadn't shown a hint of romantic interest in anyone. Some even whispered that he had turned asexual, that grief had frozen him so deeply he barely looked at women anymore. Others joked that he had a stick so far up his ass it was part of his spine.

Hitomi arched an eyebrow, her smirk turning sharp, almost predatory. Her lavender eyes glittered with something knowing.

"Oh? And why not?"

Kushina rolled her eyes and flicked her fingers in the air in mock elegance.

"Because the Hyūga wouldn't be affected by something so trivial. They're too..." she paused, biting her tongue before saying what she really wanted. Her lips curled. "...controlled. Reserved."

Hitomi giggled, sliding through the water until her thigh brushed against Kushina's under the surface.

"What are you implying, Kushi-chan? That the Hyūga bloodline is too pure to be moved by a hot, busty redhead like yourself?"

Mikoto snorted. "Sounds like you're saying inbreeding made them immune to tits and ass."

Kushina burst into laughter, her body shaking in the water, droplets trailing down her chest and belly.

"Exactly!" she said dramatically. "Those stuck-up nobles wouldn't fall for someone like me. I bet they only get hard for someone refined. Someone elegant and noble, someone all..." she straightened up, mimicking stiff posture, "...'perfect posture' and 'tea ceremony trained.' Like Hitomi, dattebane."

Hitomi leaned in close, her lips just shy of Kushina's ear, her lavender eyes gleaming with wicked amusement.

"Oh, Kushina, you have no idea, do you?"

Kushina frowned slightly, unsettled by her tone. "What do you mean?"

Hitomi gave her an infuriatingly smug smile, her voice low and teasing. "The Hyūga already have their eyes on you. Several of them, in fact."

Kushina blinked.

"...Lies."

Mikoto grinned wickedly, her fingertips trailing lazily through the water toward Kushina's thigh. "Oh no, it's very true. You think they aren't affected by you?"

Hitomi tapped her chin in mock thought. "I've personally caught at least three of my cousins sneaking glances at you whenever you visit the compound."

Mikoto nodded, her fingers now grazing Kushina's inner thigh just under the water's surface. "Not to mention Hizashi himself always seems a little too... tense when we're around. Especially when you're wearing anything even remotely tight."

Kushina felt her cheeks flush, a warm pulse shooting between her legs. Her pussy gave a light throb under the water, betraying her growing arousal despite her denial.

"That's bullshit," she muttered, voice tight.

Hitomi leaned in again, her voice soft, conspiratorial.

"Remember that time you came to the compound wearing that tight kimono? The crimson one with the thigh slits?"

Kushina frowned, her arms reflexively crossing under her bare breasts. "Which time?"

Mikoto grinned, pouncing immediately. "Oh, so you admit there were multiple times?"

Kushina scowled, her blush deepening. "Shut up."

Hitomi pressed on, unfazed. "That day? Hizashi didn't stop staring at your legs. I was watching him the whole time. His eyes kept slipping down, always back to the same spot. Right along your thighs."

Kushina scoffed, trying to push the image away. "He was probably just... eyeing something tactically relevant."

Mikoto cut her off with a wicked gleam in her eye. "Admiring the hemline? Please. That man was ogling your legs through those kimono slits like they held the secret to Byakugan evolution."

"Well, that sure was..." Kushina looked around for explanations, but Mikoto's hand on her shoulder silenced her. She turned to look at the Uchiha, who this time was looking at her with a raised eyebrow and a bit annoyed.

"Kushina, honey. Didn't we just have a conversation about your poor handling of male attention and your inability to understand when someone desires you?"

Kushina opened her mouth to retort, then closed it.

Her breath caught.

'No way...'

But the memory returned all too easily. Hizashi standing there, arms folded, face calm but his eyes... his eyes had lingered longer than they should have. And now that she thought about it, her kimono had been especially tight that day, clinging to her hips and sliding just high enough when she walked the slits might have revealed glimpses of her thighs beneath the silk.

But if what Hitomi and Mikoto were saying was true about her not noticing when people looked at her intimately then.... could it be true? 'Hizashi felt the desire for me?'

She shifted slightly in the water, thighs clenched considering the possibility that for a moment she had awakened something in a supposedly unflappable man.. Her pussy tingled again, a warm throb blooming low in her core, heat curling upward as her juices mixed subtly with the spring's heat.

Hitomi leaned back with a sly smile. "Still don't believe me?"

Mikoto leaned in beside her, matching her grin.

"Fine. Let's make a bet."

Kushina narrowed her eyes suspiciously, her body still half-submerged in the warm water, steam curling around her bare skin.

"A bet?"

Mikoto grinned wide, exchanging a knowing look with Hitomi, who was already biting her lip, trying to suppress a smirk.

"If we prove you wrong," Mikoto said, her voice full of mischief, "if we prove that the men react to you more than to your rank or status… then you have to wear whatever we pick out for you."

Kushina raised an eyebrow, arms crossing under her breasts, the movement pushing her chest up subtly above the surface. Her nipples were still stiff from earlier teasing, the cool air brushing across them between rising clouds of mist.

"And if I win?"

Hitomi shrugged with practiced elegance. "Then we drop it. You get to gloat about how men don't ogle you, or how 'pure' and 'unshakable' the Hyūga really are. Especially your dear Hizashi." she teased.

Kushina's eyes narrowed further, her confidence flaring. She was sure of herself. The Hyūga were disciplined, detached, noble to a fault. Hizashi especially. If there was a man immune to temptation, it was him.

Right?

She felt a strange flutter at the thought, her pulse quickening.

'He wouldn't... would he?'

Still, her pride rose to the surface, wrapping itself around her like a shield. She straightened, the water sliding down her toned body as she shifted her legs beneath the surface, her thighs brushing together. She felt a slow throb between them, a faint but growing heat from everything said earlier, the teasing, the touches, the thoughts of all those eyes on her.

She crossed her arms confidently, breasts rising just a bit higher in the water, a cocky smirk curving her lips.

"Fine. Deal."

Mikoto and Hitomi grinned, identical, wicked, victorious as they saw that their prey had taken the bait and fallen into their trap.

Hitomi leaned in, her breath ghosting along Kushina's shoulder. "Oh, Kushi-chan… you're going to regret this."

Mikoto added with a sultry chuckle, her fingers brushing lightly along Kushina's thigh under the water. "We already know what outfit we're choosing. And believe me, it won't leave much to the imagination."

Kushina scoffed, though her body betrayed her with a shiver. Her pussy clenched slightly at the idea, the whisper of anticipation wetting her slit beneath the surface, her juices slowly blending with the heat of the onsen.

'They're bluffing,' she told herself, but her pulse told a different story.

And neither of her so-called friends missed the subtle way her legs pressed together... or how her breath had deepened just slightly.

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