My Brother's a Jinchūriki!

Chapter 101- In the Shadows

Natsumi walked slowly through the streets with the soft light of dawn painted over the village as it warmed her skin. She bit her lips as she carried the unconscious Ena on her back. She released a slow breath as she continued forward and rounded a corner that brought them closer to the Sarutobi estate.

I'm not even really sure what happened. We were fighting, and he caught me with his ability somehow, but the rest feels like a strange dream.

She frowned slightly and shook her head.

My whole body hurts like I was skinned and rolled in lemon juice, and my head feels like my brain was violently scooped out with a spoon. I saw all those memories, but was that what he was after? What was the point of even digging in my head if he didn't even look for anything related to Kanna? 

She glanced over her shoulder at Ena's peaceful expression and sighed.

Well, at least Ena's nightmare might be over now and she will be able to go back to normal. He didn't kill either of us, so maybe he already got what he needed. I'm so tired though that I don't really care what he's gotten as long as I never see him again.

She turned again and the gates of the Sarutobi estate came into view.

"What do I do? Normally, I wouldn't hesitate to just tell Lord Third what happened, but Oto's seal probably won't even let me. That park was completely destroyed, though, so it's not as if no one will ask any questions." She bit her lip, nibbling on it slightly. "What can I do? I feel useless right now."

Natsumi pushed open the gate to slip inside with a yawn and Kiri's eyes widened as she stopped pacing in the courtyard to rush over.

"Natsumi, there you are!"

So much for no one noticing my absence and having to answer questions.

Kiri's brows furrowed as she eyed both Ena and Natsumi, and then crossed her arms. "Explain. Now. Why were both of you out before dawn? Why is she unconscious? And what the hell happened to you?"

"Kiri..." Natsumi shuffled forward and looked down. Where do I start?

"Oh, Natsumi; always managing to get yourself into trouble." Kiri sighed softly and smiled, then gently poked the girl's cheek. "You've been through a lot. Why don't you go inside and rest for a while? I'll take Ena." Kiri carefully lifted the woman from Natsumi's back and held her in her own arms, then nodded her head toward the house. "Go on. There will be time later to catch me up."

"Kiri, you're the best." Natsumi muttered softly with a half-smile, and Kiri grinned.

"Damn right I am. Go nap now."

Natsumi shuffled inside and slid the door shut behind her. She started down the halls to the guest room with her lids heavy and drooping, and her feet growing heavier with each step. She bumped into a figure, mumbling an apology as he lifted her into his arms.

"Hasu? What're you up so early for?" Her eyes cracked open and he smiled at her.

"Kiri woke not long ago and discovered that you were missing, so she woke me to inquire if I knew your whereabouts. I was confident that you would return soon, though your current condition is concerning." He frowned slightly. "What happened?"

Natsumi mumbled a short reply, too muffled for him to understand, and he adjusted her in his arms to rest her head on his shoulder.

"Let's lay you down for now. You'll be more coherent after you rest."

"Thanks." She mumbled again, closing her eyes briefly, and then finding herself on the futon when she opened them again.

I'm here already? She looked around to confirm that she was alone, and then she let out a breath and shut her eyes. Maybe everything will just sort itself out while I sleep.