Infected

Chapter 35: Allies and a Bath

    Mizu sat at her old stall feeling the judgmental and suspicious looks being cast her way. It had been about three days since she'd returned to the sand village. The apartment space had been rented out to someone else, and she'd used most of her money on travel, so she didn't have enough to stay at an inn. Somehow, she ended up back in Gaara's guest room. That had resulted in a lot of unwanted stares and rumors that people had been whispering about her when they thought she was out of earshot. She could hear a neighbor two stalls down commenting about "proper women" and "a plaything." Over the years people had talked about her behind her back so much because of Shikkan that she thought she would be fine, but this was an attack on her womanhood and her honor. It bothered her more than she thought it would. Even though she'd set up her stall again, it seemed no one wanted to go near her right now.

"Welcome back, dear."

Mizu looked up and found a pleasant familiar face smiling down at her. "Miomosa-san. How are you?"

"I'm doing well, thanks to you leaving me the recipe for the medicine to help with my back pain. I was able to get someone to mix it for me while you were gone." The refined woman smiled pleasantly at a few people in proximity of Mizu's stall. They nervously avoided eye contact with the lady. "However, it just isn't as effective as what you made for me. Could you whip some up for me, dear?"

"Of course, if you give me a few minutes, I'll have it ready for you." Mizu went about measuring out and grinding the medicine.

Miomosa watched, fascinated. "It was always a treat to watch you work. I've never seen such a skilled herbalist in all my years."

Mizu felt that she was laying it on rather thick. "You're too kind."

She quickly finished up the medicine and packaged it for her. As she handed over the packet, the woman grabbed her hand and smiled mischievously. "It's wonderful to have you back. I've missed you. I'm hosting a banquet in a weeks' time. Would you do me the honor of attending?"

Mizu glanced around at the other stalls. People were watching and listening for her answer. "I'm flattered, but—"

Miomosa leaned in and whispered into her ear, "You will need support if you plan to stay with the one you love. Don't underestimate the council."

The woman leaned back and smiled at her. Mizu couldn't figure her out. What did she want from her?

"Why do you want to help me?" Mizu kept her voice low.

"I know what you did for us and the world," Mizu recoiled, but Miomosa held her fast and the woman's gaze softened, "But most importantly, the child that would have died if you hadn't shown up that day, is my grandson. My one and only grandchild. My daughter-in-law suffered greatly during his birth and can bear no more children. Without you, dear, my entire family's line would have been snuffed out. I wish to repay you. Nothing more."

Mizu sighed and finally returned her smile. "I see. Then I'll accept the invitation."

The lady finally released her hand. "Wonderful. I'll see you then. Oh, and this girl wished to speak with you. I do hope you'll give her some of your time, you might find it worthwhile."

Confused, Mizu followed the direction she pointed and her gaze met with Hana's. The girl quickly looked to the ground. Mizu's mouth tightened as she turned back to Miomosa.

"Any allies, even an old enemy, can be helpful, dear." Miomosa left her with that.

Hana slowly inched over to Mizu's table, but didn't look her in the eyes. "I, um..."