Ninpocho Chronicles

Ninpocho Chronicles is a fantasy-ish setting storyline, set in an alternate universe World of Ninjas, where the Naruto and Boruto series take place. This means that none of the canon characters exists, or existed here.

Each ninja starts from the bottom and start their training as an Academy Student. From there they develop abilities akin to that of demigods as they grow in age and experience.

Along the way they gain new friends (or enemies), take on jobs and complete contracts and missions for their respective villages where their training and skill will be tested to their limits.

The sky is the limit as the blank page you see before you can be filled with countless of adventures with your character in the game.

This is Ninpocho Chronicles.

Current Ninpocho Time:

A Reason to Celebrate [Private]

The scientist couldn’t help but feel the anger release from him nearly instantly to see Yoshi shamed in front of the girl he was trying to hit on; it was almost liberating even. He was used to having smarts over people but to have something someone actively wanted and then get so thoroughly cock-blocked was not only a new feeling for him but one he could get used to.

Within moments the group of five was lead into the back of the large restaurant where they were placed at a table and given menus to select food from. Removing his hand away from Okibi’s took a small amount of willpower but he managed to do so. This action caused his senses to return to normal levels as he began to look over the list of food and drinks a little light headed from the experience. The host quickly scurried back to where he belonged and a change of Seven’s clothing was done to make him fit in a bit more.
It was so freaking adorable he wasn’t sure what to say.
A waiter came swooping in shortly after Yoshi left and began to order appetizers and drinks. The scientist decided to follow suit with Chiyoko when she ordered a drink and asked for a mojito but for it to be more rum and less mint. It was his favorite alcoholic beverage but for some reason he enjoyed the flavor it gave off when the liquor was stronger and the mint was more of an aftertaste than the core flavor.
Before the party could get their orders in food wise Okibi mentioned that she was off to go do something and skipped off towards the bar. Now Tama, who had never seen or known the Wild Child to drink before, wasn’t sure what to think. A part of him was worried cause he knew her personality and how liquor released those inhibitors in your mind that made you say what you thought. Another part of him didn’t really think too much of it because honestly, how much was she going to drink?

He was about to be surprised.

Sousuke on the other hand seemed very angered by the idea of her drinking as he focus returned almost full assault on that rubix cube. It was a bit disconcerting to see the Steward be so…emotional. Tama didn’t know the man like the others that were here in the group and in fact was kind of the odd-duck out but even he knew it was unusual for the man to show such emotion in his actions no matter how trivial.
He started to say something but found that his drink had been placed on a coaster in front of him. Taking up the lime and mint flavored beverage the blonde took a long sip and instantly felt the liquor digesting as soon as it hit his stomach; his metabolism was a tad insane. The relaxed feeling that began to rush over him calmed his mind and constantly jarred senses that allowed him to sink back into his seat a little. There was still quite the awkward silence lingering between the trio without Okibi to be the tie-breaker so to speak but he wasn’t sure quite what to say. The Steward was fuming over something that no doubt involved his current actions with his daughter and Chiyoko was someone he had never even heard of before today. So quietly the scientist simply sipped on his straw and tried to empty his mind enough that he would be able to counter any question that came up should the need arise.

Something in his mind told him it would be a good idea to take a look over towards the bar to check on the Wild Child and saw the astounding amount of glasses she had already went through. The Ryuu’s eyes went a little wide and he choked a little on his drink as she ordered another one. Now a small fear creeped up the scientist’s spine. He knew what she was like when she was sober and he was certain she wouldn’t do anything too embarrassing with just a few drinks under her belt – so he assumed – but now that she had finished off what looked like the entire mixed drink list he wasn’t sure what to expect.
His blood pressure began to raise up to Sousuke levels when he watched yet another guy try to hit on Okibi but it wasn’t near the strength it had been before without the Inuzuka senses increasing his senses two-fold. However she handled herself just fine before she came sauntering over towards the four at their table and launched herself at her father with a drunk he hadn’t seen anyone be in some time. The reaction of this was that the rubix cube became shattered and Tama’s heart sank a little; that couldn’t be good.
Honestly in any other situation her antics would be hilarious but with the deep laser beam prepping eyes glaring down now at a piece of paper he felt a shiver of fear creep further up his spine. He almost jumped out of his chair when Okibi landed in his lap.

Her next sentence of slurred wording that came out of her mouth floored the young man. He was highly intelligent and knew the full effects of liquor on the brain so he knew that she spoke only the truth when she brought a shade of light on the feelings that she had for Tama.
His heart began to race a little from both the words and her sudden proximity but he couldn’t bring himself to defuse the situation as his mind was suddenly steeped into those emotions he shared but had been far too shy to really get out. Sure he had explained to her how he felt in his own sense but the very idea of actual ‘love’ was a concept that was still somewhat alien to him. The rush of blood and emotions that shocked him when she threw her arms around him was almost enough to make him break down and cry given his loveless past.

But then Okibi decided to make his head explode. Yep, that’s right, blood and gore shot all over everyone and a dead headless Tama was left sitting there in the chair…or at least that’s how he felt.

No one here knew it but this was literally their first attempt at a kiss since she started conditioning him to stop being afraid of women. The drink that was pushed into his mouth and swallowed only added to the sudden superior rush of senses that came whenever she shared her chakra with him. The feel of her warm soft lips pressing against his own was a something he could resist no matter how much he tried and his body naturally reacted by picking his head up for a second to return the kiss as his mind simply blacked out.
Tama’s head, when she finally broke the kiss, lulled back and his eyes rolled into the back of his head as he was literally unconscious. His hand loosened its grip on the drink and the beverage bounced against the table but didn’t spill as the hand fell limp.

It was probably fortunate that he was knocked out for this short amount of time as he missed Sousuke’s entire angry comments towards his daughter’s actions and Chiyoko defensive remarks. As much as he loved the Steward and saw him as his absolute hero it was best that Tama didn’t hear the things he said in anger for it most likely would have caused an equally angry reaction of out the young man.

Slowly the lights began to prick the scientist’s mind as consciousness returned. Very easily he craned his head back up right and shook it before grabbing the mojito, downing the rest of the drink which was about three-fourths a glass, and demanded another from a passing waiter. The liquor worked its magic and began to return the man back to dulled senses that would keep him from passing out so easily over something like being touched intimately. It wasn’t quite something he realized just yet but it sounded like a good idea at the moment.
Especially when he caught the thing that the Kazekage was drawing on a scrap piece of paper now that he didn’t have his cube to focus on.
 
When Tama's head lulled back against his chair, with his eyes rolled back into his head, Okibi's smile turned down into a pink cheeked mou. She shook him just a little, then sighed as she turned around in his lap and downed the rest of her drink before setting the empty glass on the table. She hiccuped once, and giggled as she settled herself back against the unconscious Tama's chest. "Tami always do that." She said out loud to the table and to nobody in particular. "Always go sleep after Okibi get close." Her giggling died down as she turned another frown on Seven, not noticing for the moment the bubbling anger that was on the other side of the table.

"Why he do that Puppy Seven?" She asked the 'boy' in the sharp leather jacket and sunglasses.

Seven turned to look at her, having been observing Sousuke and Chiyoko's interaction while Okibi had been in the process of knocking out her beau. Apparently Sousuke was indeed capable of feeling some emotions, but it seemed that so far it was the negative ones that came to him most easily. That Chiyoko, his mother was taking Okibi's outrageous behavior in better stride than him was rather unbelievable. He was almost sure Sousuke wasnt that much older than Okibi. In fact, he was pretty sure that any normal human his age would have found her antics extremely amusing.

He looked from Tama, to Okibi, and shook his head with a grin. Even if he was just a pup now, he still had more than enough knowledge stored away to realize what had happened. "Your female charms were just too much for him to take it seems." He remarked as he took a sip from his soda, which had a silly straw in it; a little something extra that the waitress had gifted him. He had to admit, even if he wasnt technically young in spirit... the youthful instincts that had been reborn in him enjoyed sipping his drink through the long winding bit of plastic. "I think you should refrain from ravishing the poor boy while your in public Okibi." He set the drink back on the table and glanced at Sousuke from behind his big glasses. The man had taken up glaring at a piece of paper, which he was drawing on, after rendering his rubix cube to fine dust. "It doesnt seem that everyone here appreciates your behavior."

Okibi cocked her head to the side, much like a puppy, just as Tama was coming back to his senses. She didnt notice as he reached around her and picked up his drink, chugging it back before ordering another, but instead looked around the table, wavering slightly in her seat. "What Seven mean? Everybody happy! Right?" She declared, though she sounded just a bit unsure as her wobbly gaze landed on her guardian and his mother. It took her a few moments, but when she focused her sense of smell in their direction, she realized something that made her eyes go wide with apprehension.

Bolting up from Tama's lap, Okibi hurried around the table - nearly knocking over a waiter in her haste as she did so - and fell to her knees beside Chiyoko. Big, fat tears welled up in her eyes as she took the womans hands in her own, and somehow she just couldnt stop her bottom lip from trembling. "Chichi mad! Why Chichi mad? Okibi do something bad? Please, not be mad at Okibi, Chichi!" And then she buried her face in the woman's thigh, practically wailing with grief.

Until she whiffed up the woman's scent from that proximity and realized that it hadnt been Chiyoko who'd been emanating the scent of anger. Okibi pulled herself back quickly, her tears abruptly stopping as though they had never been there in the first place. She turned in a slow, wobbly circle on her knees, sniffing the air, and came to an abrupt hault when she faced Sousuke. Her eyes widened again, and she threw herself at his side, jarring his arm as she latched onto it and flew right back into the same little spiel she gave Chiyoko. "Sogay mad! Why Sogay mad? Okibi do something bad? Please, not be mad at Okibi, Sogay!" And then, just as before, she buried her face against Sousuke's thigh as she cried loudly. Theyd been all the exact same words, just with Sousuke's nick name instead of Chiyoko's.

And when she didnt smell his anger bating, Okibi really lost it. She threw herself away from Sousuke and dove under the table, taking a moment to curl up into a ball and just cry there for a while. After two or three minutes of pitiful wailing, she crawled back out, up Tama's legs and back into his lap where she dropped her head against his shoulder and let the tears flow freely. So much came, in fact, that it was starting to soak into the material of his outfit. "Sogay hate Okibi, Tami! Why Sogay hate Okibi!?" Then she wrapped her arms around his neck in a strangle hold, holding fast as she wheeped into his neck.


[MFT]
 
More? She wanted more drinks. More alcohol. More reason to appear like a buffoon. Decency was virtually unknown to Okibi. It may as well have vanished completely in concept and reality. It may have become extinct! Yes. Lord Nobu knew decency even when drunk. It was weakened in all forms, but by the ancestors he knew it! Sousuke's eyes shifted over to his mother when Okibi was crying and all over her. His mother smiled weakily. "Oh. I'm not mad. Not mad at all. I'm happy you're ... uh ... enjoying yourself and having a splendid time. Yes. Just remember Okibi to ... take a little breather now and then? Surely you want something to eat right?"<i></i> Chiyoko placed her hand on the side of Okibi's head. "There there. It's alright. You dry up those tears-- oh."<i></i>

Sousuke's hand would take a wild twist as Okibi bumped into him. A very dark line would come across the design and ruined it. Sousuke blinked three times before grabbing the pencil and merely holding it. His veins would appear quite clearly as his knuckles turned white. Sousuke would become quite rigid for a moment. He stopped all movements. It was almost as if he stopped breathing even. He didn't say a single thing when she threw herself under the table and curled up into a ball. Sousuke merely inhaled deeply and exhaled. His eyes lowered to his drawing once more. Ruined. Oh yes. It was ruined. Even using an eraser wouldn't be able to save the drawing. "Okibi. Let Tama go. You're choking him."<i></i> He would speak in a very calm fashion. That sentence alone would carry with it no venom, no anger, no fury, just merely a neutrality. It was the same neutrality that defined Sousuke so very well. His eyes instead of being furrowed, glaring, leering, or anything really were just blank and unreadable. "Hate, Okibi, is a very strong word. I'm not hateful, I'm ... I'm not sure what I am right now. I just wish you wouldn't drink such copious amounts of alcohol and conduct yourself as you have... it's ... conveying an image I'm sure you wouldn't appreciate it if you were viewing it from my perspective. I don't think you would care, because you just don't. That's beside the point. It's your birthday and ... you should be doing whatever makes you happy... so long as it does not impede upon the freedoms or safety of others."<i></i> Sousuke's eyes shifted back to the design. Ruined. So very ruined. Could it be ruined any further? Probably. Did he want it to be ruined further by Okibi? No before Sousuke could answer his own question he found himself tearing out the sheet of paper and then tearing up the image even further before stuffing it into his pockets. It was probably for the best considering that if she ruined it any further he might end up shouting at her, which would ... not have been the best for himself or her. Sousuke had to keep himself in check. This was unknown territory. "I suppose I should order myself a ... vodka maritini, served with a pink slice of lemon, measured with three quarters Gordon, shaken over a pit of ice, and not stirred. Maybe if I drink myself stupid, maybe I can enjoy myself too. I don't know what is so appealing about it. You're doing damage to your brain cells."<i></i>
 
The waiter returned with Tama’s drink rather fast and left just as quickly. He was watching from a distance and trying his hardest not to laugh as he attempted to split his attention between his job and the antics of four main characters in the same story.

The blonde lifted the second drink to his lips and slurped at it slowly as he felt the intoxication kick in enough that he could finally calm his brain back down. For the first three minutes of his return to consciousness all he could think about was the lips belonging to the girl who was still sitting in his lap.

Wait, weren’t they at a restaurant? Eh.

Feeling Okibi launching herself off of him wasn’t painful but it wasn’t the most pleasant of feelings either for the sudden movement made the scientist jerk back into his chair and spill a little of his drink in his face. Slowly the young man put the drink down, blindly reached around for his napkin for a second before wiping the liquor from his face off with a slowly rising chuckle.
A blessing and curse of his fast metabolism was how quick he could get drunk, but it took a lot to stay there. Alcohol poisoning would have been a serious concern for someone with that kind of digestive system but medical shinobi training pretty much took care of that problem. There were seriously too many advantages to being a super genius with access to mystical powers blessed from their own bodies.

His concern went up a little when he saw where Okibi had launched herself to. Her begging and pleading were completely wild and out of character for her. Even in an inebriated state the scientist could now understand why Sousuke had such a grimace upon his brow. Alcohol and Okibi just were not two things that mixed well together. No doubt on top of everything else she probably mixed the liquors as well which was a big spankey no-no. The hangovers from doing that were known to be some of the worst in the world; which made Tama greatly pity the poor girl.

Tomorrow was going to be hell for her.

The Ryuu had no concerns to this supposed hangovers that people got when they poisoned themselves with fancy drink. His insane metabolic system combined with his vast knowledge of the chakra system pretty much negated any chances the alcohol would dehydrate his system to the point of such a sickness. If he needed more hydration he could simply manipulate some H2o from his chakra coil. If the amount consumed was of deadly levels he could simply use the chakra to transform it into harmless proteins.
Yet blessed as he was when it came to drinking it wasn’t something he did very often. It did do temporary harm to his thinking process and that wasn’t something that helped him be productive…not that he had been working on anything lately. Almost every second of his life since Okibi came back was spent in her presence and strangely he didn’t care at all. Normally such a distraction was would be an extreme problem and his brain would normally try to find the fastest way to get rid of said problem; not in this case.

His concerns doubled when Okibi then turned and began to do the same begging process towards the angered Sousuke, crawled under the table, and then began hugging his neck to death. He tried to respond to the distraught girl but all he could get out were gasps and choking sounds.

Not that he really had any idea what was going on anyways. He was knocked out for a few minutes after all.
 
Okibi only heard half of what Sousuke had to say over her own blubbering, but what she did catch made her throat seize up. She pulled away from Tama momentarily, turned enough so that she could see Sousuke, successfully whipping Tama in the face with her hair unknowingly (while still choking him too!). Her lip trembled pathetically as her big watery eyes gave Sousuke the stare down. "How you say Okibi not care!? Would Okibi cry if she not care!?" Then she turned back around and resumed bawling into Tama's shoulder while summarily choking the life out of him. His noises went unheeded by her deaf ears.

Seven sighed and shook his head as he adjusted the bow around his neck and toyed with the place settings on the table. He looked at Chiyoko across the table, and smiled, ignoring the antics going on around him for the time being. "So Miss Chiyoko, how have you been in my absence? Anything new or interesting happen with you lately?" It was a rather pathetic attempt at conversation, but he honestly didnt want to focus on the chaos going on around the table. Their food hadnt even arrived yet and things were going haywire thanks to his human.

It was around this time that Okibi finally realized Sousuke had told her to stop choking Tama. She'd been choking him!? Why didnt he - Tama - say so!? Okibi drew back, loosening her arms from around the blond and placed her hands on his cheeks; maybe a little firmer than she needed to. She squeezed his cheeks as she turned his head this way and that, looking him over thoroughly; although she could barely see straight. "Why you not tell Okibi she choke you Tami!?" She demanded, looking cross. But, in seconds her ire disolved into more tears, though they came less than they did before. She loosened her grip of his face and pulled him closer, raining his cheeks and lips with little apology kisses. "Okibi sorry." She said in between them. "Not hate Okibi too Tami. Okibi sorry."

Just then, the sweet (?) moment was interrupted by the clearing of a deep, male throat. "Hey gorgeous, how about that dance now?" Said the man from the bar. Okibi had just been in the process of planting a kiss on Tama's nose when she stopped abruptly. Her eyes strayed to the side, glaring at the tall, bulky man sideways. A soft growl started up in her throat, making her lips vibrate against Tama's nose.

And suddenly, she wasnt on Tama's lap anymore. She was now standing on her feet, looking sure as could be, holding the bar guy up by his neck with her metal arm, more than a foot off the ground. He was a good deal taller than her, and probably weighed close to seventy pounds more than she did, but still she lifted him with ease. She glared at him with death in her eyes as a rage bubbled up and out of her. She'd just been in the process of showering her would-be mate with affection and he had the audacity to interrupt her?

Well she would show him.

Seven watched the events unfold with deadpanned eyes. They hadnt even been reunited for more than an hour and already she was threatening someone with bodily harm. Part of him wasnt surprised, and the other was rather exasperated. Wasnt this supposed to be a celebration. The 'boy' picked up his soda again and sipped it casually. "Someone should probably stop her before she gets us thrown out before our food even gets here. One of you distract her while the other gets rid of the guy?" He looked from Tama to Sousuke, his thoughts clear.
 
Sousuke was half tempted to let Okibi get herself thrown out. She had already done enough damage in terms of ... well it wasn't exactly something Sousuke could explain without it being drawn out and overly complicated. Suffice it to say there was biological, chemical imbalances, and perhaps some mental issues that had to be dealt with. He simply sat back and watched her go and on. Sousuke snorted when she spoke of caring. Riiiiight. The Steward replayed the lecture he had given several Suna students with his ward hanging off of him and then how she got violent with his bean bag chair which she had proceeded to shred. Yes. That was some time ago, but people really don't change. They may have evolved in some aspects, but rarely do these changes remain truly permanent.

The Steward proceeded to facepalm as Okibi was now getting upset with Tama now for not being capable of telling her that he was being choked. He then watched as she was about to kiss Tama until she was interrupted by the barman. She then proceeded to grip him in a sort of death hold. "Okibi. Okibi stop."<i></i> The Steward rose and in a phase shift movement he was now removing Okibi's metallic hand and dragging her away from the table with not force but grace. In the Steward's left hand something metallic was flickering. It was moving quickly as the Steward was walking Okibi away from the table and any other further confrontations. "At the very least I'm going to do this right..."<i></i> Before Okibi knew it there was something around her neck. A chain, small in size, silver in colour and probably made from silver too. At the end of the chain was a medallion of sorts. One the first half of it was a familiar creature, a wolf's head. The wolf's head would stop about half way and become something else entirely, it was a horse's head. The Wolf had a blue gemstone for its eye, and the horse had a green one. "Happy birthday. Do you like it?"<i></i>A sort of curious look would come over Sousuke's face as he seemed concerned."Oh... and you're going to learn how to dance. Just ... follow... my lead."<i></i> He would place his hand on her hip, and take her other hand. "Slow movements, nothing fast or fancy. Think of it like combat, except not outwitting your foe you're complimenting them. If you don't like that concept, then think of it as a conversation. Watch your footing, like a fight footing is key. Careful. Careful now."<i></i>


Chiyoko watched in disbelief from afar. "I seriously thought he was going to leave. Heh. I'm surprised."<i></i> Chiyoko would shake her head. When asked how she was doing by Number Seven she shrugged. "Getting older... I'm not looking forward to that. Don't think because you're in a smaller body now that you've been released from our little agreement. I was working towards finding a replacement for you, being one of my ... old friends who aren't quite human. I had Sousuke met with the lot of them a while back. He hosted a dinner... which ended... well... let's just say it was a slice. Literally."<i></i> Chiyoko took another sip from her drink. "I'd ask you whats been going on, but in your case it's like you've woken up from a long nap... and I'm not going to ask what happened in between our last meeting. Not good table talk... but I do have to say you look good in blue. I can't wait for your form to be reverted. Oh you're such a cutie. I sorely do miss having a dog of mine... er animal friend, you know what I mean."<i></i> Chiyoko's expression would soften for a moment before it returned to its proper amused stated.

Chiyoko's eyes would shift over to Tama. "Holding up there Tama-boy? You're not winded are you? Kids these days. Geeze. I didn't expect Okibi to wallop you with a kiss like that. I'm surprised you came to that quickly. Reminds me of the days when I and Judori were dating. The Uchiha clan elder, a man who I truly depise, looked like he was about to have a heart attack when I gave Judori long kisses on our dates."<i></i>
 
We’ll, I’m alive...and so are you,<i></i>” he said turning a glared back down at the man whom was saved by the Steward, “I would recommend you leave our party alone for the rest of the night. The girl doesn’t want to dance, that man is her father as well as your leader and I’m her mad scientist boyfriend. Seriously man, just take it as loss for the night and try somewhere else before I start to get an urge to dissect something.<i></i>”

Tama’s voice was somewhat lazy in his speaking manner as he leaned his heavy head against the back of the chair, allowing sweet, sweet oxygen to float into his brain. He took another deep breath and exhaled it with a grin. If the man was either too dumbstruck or stubborn to leave the scientist would put a period at the end of his statement.
A shimmering silver caught the light at just the right angle so that it would reflect its sharp edge to the man from the bar. A scaple was twirled between Tama’s fingers and with some greater expertise at that. It was funny really, you could ask him to do this at any other time and he’d simply look at you like you’ve lost your mind.

Once he had the offensive man leave and a silent vow had been made to never bring Okibi back here, the scientist answered the Lady’s question in full,
I don’t think anyone but perhaps Sousuke knew what to expect from this state of mind coming from her. I could see his growing anger climbing rather fast but…even I’m confused as to what just happened. Is your entire family like that? I mean I don’t have a lot to base it off of, but I figured most families are more…well…less spontaneous,<i></i>” Tama lifted the drink to his lips and chugged its contents. He could feel the healing chakra in his body clear up the growing bruises on his neck that Okibi had left from her love hug of death, and just as well it was killing his buzz.
His hand shot up to contact the waiter’s attention once more and ordered four rounds of shots from a high priced rum known as Pirate’s Envy. It was an import from somewhere in the Kiri region and the whole selling point of the label was that it was a pirate’s favorite rum.

Rather or not that was true was left up to discussion but, Tama was rather fond of it.

The waiter returned with four shot glasses and half a chilled 8-ball glass of the liquor. His eyes watched Okibi and Sousuke dance on the floor as a smile crept up to his face. He took one shot after the other in quick succession before sitting back into the seat. He lazily lifted the glass up to his lips and drank at the lightly chilled rum as his eyes began to focus more and more on the drunk Wild Child.

She’s my first love you know,<i></i>” he said to the two sitting at the table, two ears he trusted council to. Chiyoko he had just met but was already swayed by her wit and Seven was…well Seven. Tama’s trust towards the reborn canine were deep because of Okibi, “At least I think that’s what I feel. I’ve never had the chance to fall in love except with…well, great inventions of extreme genius but I think that’s something else all together. With her though…I’ve put off weeks of work but professional and personal, she invades my every moment of thought, and I’m always wondering to myself at night, ‘Is she adjusting well? Does someone sleep in her room with her or is she left to the darkness to face her own fears?’<i></i>”

The scientist stopped himself with a bit of a blush as he realized that his mental filter was turned off. A chuckle came from his lips as he reveled in the joys of alcohol. Even if the two people were literally strangers by society’s standards, the liquor allowed him to let loose a lot of weight of his shoulders to two people he didn’t know as well as he suddenly wanted to.

Anyways, I don’t really have a lot of experience with this whole love thing. My parents were estranged, and that is a very light way of putting it, and I never really had time to make any friends until we finally stopped jumping from home to home and got stuck here. Even then my first four years here was spent with my nose so far up a book I could read it by smell. Okibi is literally the only person who has been able to break me away from that and spend countless nights awake far longer than I need to be wondering – is it love or extreme curiosity? As a man of science I worry of these things…<i></i>”

Buzz was starting to come on pretty good. Through the whole conversation he kept a grin on his face unable to fall into the sadness that those thoughts normally invoked. Once again being able to talk to someone about it helped, but he was pretty sure liquor was wut was doin eet.

[mft]
 
Seven could only laugh, trying to hide his discomfort at having Chiyoko call him a 'cutie'. As Okibi was hauled away by Sousuke, Seven sat back in his chair and watched the proceedings. The bar dude fell to the floor, coughing and lifting a shaking hand to his throat, where small trickles of blood were making tracks, no doubt thanks to the claws on Okibi's hand. He glanced up when Tama started talking to him, trying to catch the breath that'd been stolen by the slim white haired gal.

At first, it didnt look like the guy was going to heed Tama's warning. In fact, strangely enough he looked even further intrigued after what Okibi'd done to him. Seven rose an eyebrow; was this guy some sort of masochist? But then the guys eye's landed on the glinting scalpel that Tama was twirling in his fingers, and Seven let out a bark of laughter when the guy promptly got to his feet and started walking away.

"Well done." He said, giving Tama a few claps for his performance. Then he quieted back down when the young blond launched himself into a monologue about a certain rowdy female, and all his feelings for her. Seven listene intently the entire time, and really, why wouldnt he? He'd been the girls keeper for most of her life, of course he was more than interested in her love life! They'd just been reunited, and he was more than curious about what was going on between her and Tama.

Needless to say, Tama's little soliloquy shined more than a little light on a few things.

He laughed a little when he thought about Tama's reaction to Okibi's behavior. "You're kidding right? This is Okibi we're talking about. She had little to no inhibitions before the alcohol, it really shouldnt surprise you that she went and stole your virgin lips Tama. I wasnt." And that was because that one and only other time he'd seen her drunk, she'd been fairly affectionate at that time too, and with people she barely even knew. That she would plant a big fat kiss on Tama wasnt in the least bit surprising to the dog.

He sipped more of his soda as he turned and watched with Tama as Sousuke twirled Okibi around the dance floor. Surprisingly, she looked like she knew exactly what she was doing, and like she'd been doing it her entire life. He supposed that was because she was a master of all things physical; combat, dance, the two things probably seemed very similar to her.

"Okibi is an easy girl to love. Sure she might be brash, impetuous and impulsive, but she gives her love and loyalty freely to people she feels deserves it." He looked at Tama then. "By the way she behaves with you, I'd say you've done something to definitely deserve it Tama." Seven didnt know what that was, but he was sure he would learn once he got Okibi alone and talking. They had much to catch up on after all. He looked back at the dance floor. "I'm gonna let you in on a secret. Love isnt an equation that you can solve, or a formula that you can perfect. It lives and breathes as surely as you do, and it take's work to cultivate. But you shouldnt think about it so much, and just let your instincts guide you. My cousins, the wild wolves, follow their instincts when finding their mates, and wolves, my friend, mate for life."

He turned away from the dance floor as a waitress approached, handling trays full of food. Finally, time to eat! "But if you ask me, I highly doubt what you feel for her is just curiosity. No male would react to others the way you did when they encroached on your territory. Not because of curiosity, anyway." He picked up his knife and fork and dug into the large juicy steak he'd ordered. The melting flavors on his tongue were like heaven after weeks of mother milk and dry kibble. He swallowed and looked at Chiyoko, grinning. "Wouldnt you agree Miss Chiyoko?"

-------------

During the talk that was going on at the table, Okibi was fuming as she was lead away from the bastard who'd interrupted her swooning of Tama. When her feet touched the cool wood of the dance floor however, her anger was forgotten and was replaced by confusion. What'd just happened? How'd she get on the dance floor?

She blinked blearily as Sousuke was suddenly place something over her head, settling it on her shoulders. It was cool on her skin; made of metal? Okibi picked the pendant up, and studied it with her wavering vision. She had to squint to make out the details, but from what she could make out of it, she liked. "Pretty . . ." She murmured, tracing the fingers of her flesh hand over its smooth surface. She looked up at Sousuke's inquiry about whether she liked it, and swayed just slightly on her feet as she gave him a bright smile. "Okibi thank, Sogay. Love it."

And then he was placing his hands on her, one of her hip and the other taking her hand, before he started to move her around the dance floor. At first, she was surprised, and confused. They were dancing? They were dancing! Had she been in her right mind, Okibi might have found the occurence a little strange, that someone who had such trouble with emotions like Sousuke did could perform such an emotional act like dancing so well.

She looked down at her feet and Sousuke's, measuring her steps with only some difficulty because of her fuzzy eyesight. Before long she was lifting her head as the momentum of the dance naturally made her head fall back. She laughed as she followed Sousuke's lead, whirling around the dance floor amongst a few other couples. Her hair lifted, and her skirts rippled around her like water was she was lead around, and around. A soft, lilting piano tune was accompanied by soft wind instruments, played by a band that was situated on a small stage on the other side of the floor. At one point, when Okibi was spun away from Sousuke, she looked back at their table, sensing eyes on her. She spotted Tama watching them, grinned coyly, and crooked a finger at him before spinning back into Sousuke's hold. What she'd just told him? She wanted to dance with him next.


(The dance I was imagining!
 
Chiyoko stirred her drink a bit as Tama asked his question about how the family worked. For a moment her eyes shifted to Number Seven who knew the truth of the matter on the nature of Sousuke. "My son..."<i></i> She would begin, "My son... is a bit predictable at times, but sometimes he'll surprise you. He's part Toraono. He doesn't exhibit any of the feline aspects, but I think that's the first time I've seen him get angry. Lady Azame had a slight temper when she was young, but you wouldn't think it. The only other times I've seen Sousuke express himself this ... this much? Was during the Djinn attack, when Okibi first came back, and ... well. It's not my place, to talk about the last bit, but I might do it anyways."<i></i> She took another sip from her drink. "Maybe later though."<i></i>

The next little while she spent listening to Tama, "Okibi is given her privacy, but we're never too far away from her. People can receive so much help, but they have to help themselves. I'm not saying that to mean, but even the best of us have to help ourselves sometimes. The first few nights she was back I don't think any of us slept though, especially Sousuke. We all kept a watch on her."<i></i> Tama continued to talk about how Okibi was the first person he ever loved, and how his parents were estranged. "You're young. You'll get it someday. You're younger than my son, but the way you speak isn't fitting exactly... hey you might get it before my son does. I don't have a high opinion of my mother, you've encountered her. I swore I'd never be like her, and I like to think I've done a good job. I've never seen my mother date men or anything of the like, she's just been friends with her squadron. I was like you, and I just didn't get it... until I was maybe about Sousuke's age."<i></i> When Number Seven had his fill of sage words, Chiyoko chuckled a bit. "Well, I'd say maybe it's just a tiny bit curiosity, like ... what five percent? I'm getting precise like Sousuke would."<i></i>

***

As Okibi and Sousuke continued to dance, the two were making excellent progress. Even in Okibi's slightly intoxicated form her movements were excellent, to the surprise of Sousuke. "I think you're advancing quite nicely. I'm going to be making a slightly winding turn now..."<i></i> As Sousuke continued to dance, something caught his eye for a moment. A slightly troubled look came over Sousuke as something or someone in the distance seemed to have gotten his attention. His eyes narrowed for a moment as he focused on this thing or individual. Soon enough the thing or person was out of sight. The two continued to dance about gracefully. "Are you ready to speed things up a little bit?"<i></i> Sousuke would ask. Without awaiting her response, Sousuke would indeed begin to speed up just a bit.

"I'm glad you like your birthday gift. A lot of ... love ... went into making that."<i></i> Sousuke seemed to have slight issues saying the word love, but it was said nevertheless. "I don't think you'll remember what I'm about to tell you in the morning, but it's worth trying to say it anyways. I worry about you, and I don't want anything bad to happen to you again. When you drink so much ... it's really not healthy for you, and I don't want it becoming a pattern. Always remember everything in moderation ... too much of one thing isn't for the best."<i></i> Sousuke would then twirl Okibi. "...You never did tell me what you were doing at Tama's back from a few weeks... I'm surprised you didn't have a change in hair colour again... but I am grateful you didn't hurt yourself."<i></i>
 
The young man seemed obviously relieved by the words of his peers as he sank a little more into the seat at the table. His hand continued to lazily lift the burning chilled liquor to his lips as he continued to watch nothing but the twirling girl on the dance floor. Even as the plates of delicious food were brought to their table places his pickled mind could only focus forward. It wasn’t until he heard the brief sound of Seven’s knife cutting against the plate did he realize there was food there.

The scientist finally broke his stare at the dance floor to look down at the lobster tail and fried clams he had ordered. He tilted his head a little at it as if he was confused for a second as how to eat. His spare hand snaked out after a few seconds of staring and snatched up one of the shrimp to place all but the tail end in his mouth and bite down.
Flavor exploded in his mouth of the ocean surrounding their country and instantly he was wondering how good it would taste if he had the Inuzuka senses guiding his taste buds. It was some pretty fresh seafood he worked out a bit of lobster. The seasonings were kind of ‘eh’, but there was no denying how fresh it was. Of course the kitchen was probably giving their party the best of what they had to offer due to the attitude of their host and that thought alone made Tama chuckle.

He finished up his rum after completing his lobster before looking back up at the two dancing to see Okibi curl a finger at him with that ‘come hither’ look on her face. Of course Tama had never danced before and didn’t see any good reason to go embarrass himself in front of a girl he had strong affections for.
That was until a single sentence came out of Sousuke’s mouth questioning what she was doing at Tama’s house a few weeks back. Of course the scientist couldn’t hear what the man was saying nor was he some expert at reading lips. It was just a disturbance in the Force and for some reason the blonde knew that bad stuff was about to happen if he didn’t get the hell up right now. It would never be discerned later on when he sobered up if that was just his paranoia or a mild play at being psychic on top of all his other amazing abilities.

The chair was pushed back by his legs as he went to go walk forward, then suddenly, gravity. The Ryuu’s toe caught on his own damn other foot which threw him forward to fall flat on his face within the first two steps out away from his table. He quickly got himself back on his feet though and put up his hands to inform everyone
O-okay. I’m okay. Totally.

One careful foot after the next he began to walk towards the two on the dance floor before he was close enough to reach out and tap Okibi’s shoulder. He held out a hand as if to offer a dance and a goofy grin was on his face. He kept stumbling over to the left as the liquor really started to kick his butt.
Might we, I mean I, us, persons of two, umm…wanna dance?

Fancy talk was so hard when you were drunk!
 
When the speed of their twirling picked up, Okibi pulled in close and wrapped her free arm around Sousuke. Just because she could pull off dancing while intoxicated didnt mean she wasnt as prone to dizziness as anyone else. She snuggle in close to his shoulder, smiling when expressed his - what she could only define as - surprise at her ability. In all honesty, she was rather surprised too, although the drunkenness greatly clouded it. Had she been in her right mind, she would have been just as taken aback as Sousuke.

But then something happened that did take her by surprise, even in her addled state. She pulled away from Sousuke's shoulder a little and looked him in the eye (he was only a scant two inches taller than her after all). He didnt say as much, but she was pretty sure he was apologizing to her. He never said the actual words, but in expressing his care for her and his desire not to see her hurt again - even by her own design - she could hear it. It made her smile.

But the smile dropped suddenly when Sousuke randomly asked about the time she'd spent at Tama's a few weeks ago; the time she'd told him she wouldnt be gone long, and had ended up spending hours with the blond scientist. Recalling the memory was a tad bit difficult because of the state of her mind, but when she really put some effort into it, she remember the immense fun she had teasing the guy, and knocking him unconscious with just her nude proximity and few choice words. Nevermind all the other stuff that happened that early morning/afternoon. The naked fun was what she wanted to remember.

With a wide grin, Okibi was just about to regale Sousuke with exactly what had happened that day - and in great detail - when she felt a tap on the shoulder. Okibi didnt need to look over her shoulder to know who it was - she could smell his nearness. Their waltz ended and Okibi pulled away from Sousuke, turning her grin on Tama, who now seemed to be just a little intoxicated himself. There was a red mark on his face, and Okibi wondered how he'd gotten it (she hadnt seen him fall on his face just moments ago). When he asked her to dance, like she'd hoped he would, Okibi nodded, the turned back to Sousuke. She leaned up just the smallest bit and gave him a kiss on the cheek - a real one, and not her version of a dogs - then stepped away again.

"Okibi thank for dance Sogay. You go eat now." And she pushed him off the dance floor and towards their table, where she saw Seven digging into his steak with gusto.

When she turned around, she did so with flare, giving Tama a look that said quite plainly what she wanted. Perhaps she couldnt claim all of it there on the dancefloor, but she damn well was going to get as much out of the moment as she could. Music that was altogether different from the stuff that was playing during her dance with Sousuke started up, happy trumpets and drums and other jazzy things. Okibi bounced on her feet, bopping her hips from side to side as she beckoned Tama with her hands, approaching him with a real swing and a hop in her step.

"This one is for all you youngsters who really know how to swing it. Grab your partner and show him or her just what exactly you like about them." A DJ announced, just before a chipper voice started singing over the sound system.

Smiling like a true cat, Okibi grabbed Tama by the lapels of his jacket and hauled him against her body, pressing in as close as she dared (which was as damn close as she could get him of course). She stood on her tip toes and pressed her lips against his ear, whispering for only him to hear. "So you're going to be gentle with me, are you Tami?" She said, letting her lips brush over the sensitive shell of his ear. She was of course referring to that moment just after they'd found Seven, and the pup had eluded to her and Tama's physical relationship. And what? She was speaking normally again? Was she not as drunk as everyone thought then? "Were you just saying that, or is that a promise? It is my birthday after all, and you havent given me a gift yet."

Then suddenly she was spinning away from him, kicking her feet out front and to the sides in time with the music. She bounced and flicked and spun about the dance floor on her own, but never took her smoldering eyes off her partner.

-----------------

Back at the table, Seven was already polishing off his steak and working on his baked potato. When Sousuke returned to the table (I assume) he gave the young man a glance from over his sunglasses. "I didnt know you were such an accomplished dancer Sousuke. That was impressive." He said, just before popping a bite of his potato into his mouth. "Where did you learn?"
 
Sometimes the simplest of actions were the most surprising. Sousuke took his seat and with his index finger traced where Okibi had kissed him. Hugs were one thing, but kisses held a deeper meaning. Sousuke watched Tama and Okibi proceed to dance more sensibly now. He didn't have to worry as much... except for the fact that...

"I didn't know you were such an accomplished dancer Sousuke. That was impressive. Where did you learn?"<i></i>

Sousuke did not answer right away. His eyes traced about looking for something, when he turned to speak he noticed his mother wasn't with them. How odd. "Where? I was taught in school. How is the more important than where really."<i></i> The Steward's eyes narrowed as he was looking for ... someone ... someone who had caught his attention earlier. Someone that concerned him. "I was taught dancing during spars and duels, and my particular duel-mate was Inuzuka Shizune. She is..."<i></i> Sousuke was trying to find nice words to describe her. "... well she was and always will be bigger than I am in size, strength wise she is somewhat frightening. On occasion, on purpose she would crack my legs by using a certain movement style that my frame couldn't take, my bones were always smaller than hers. I had to have metal splints driven into my legs, and no one could ever figure out why my legs were so weak as a child ... until I wanted to talk about it. When I was but a boy, I would oftentimes go for days without saying a thing. I couldn't take the practical exam so I had to take theory. Her father and mine were good friends, so you can expect that he gave her quite an earful. I think she hated him for it, because he oftentimes told her that she had to be loyal to the future Steward here and now instead of the future."<i></i> There was a pause. The topic left a stinging feeling upon the Steward. For a minute Sousuke was silent. He seemed to be having problems with his person as the memories of his childhood weren't always pleasant when it came to his education. The unreadable and neutral expression continued for some time until Sousuke again raised his eyes looking for someone or something.

"When I graduated, there were six of us. Suffice to say my peers, didn't ... they... became ... their occupations were associated with illegal actions. From time to time I have come across them. The last time I met Shizune she was in disguise trying to rob a charity ball, and through my observational skills I was able to find her out. Dog hair gives quite a bit away. No matter how hard to try to hide it, transformation wise, or one's familiar, it's usually present. The time before that she was robbing a bank and I put a stop to that. She likes to refer to me as ... a special education or SPED kid... and various terms relating to retardation. She sent me through a few walls and floors. I dropped a crystal chandelier on her and seared her wounds with plasma and flame."<i></i> Sousuke turned his eyes from his surroundings and back to the table. "To answer your question, now that I've given you ... what Okibi would call a boring story, I learned to dance from a school peer. Ironically when we last met, she wanted to dance with me, and I declined her offer. If I seem a little on the edge, it's because ... she served her time, and now she is free. I think I may have seen her here... and so I may looked as if I've seen a ghost."<i></i> He looked outward once more and began observing. Sousuke's eyes were tracing movements, and finally he picked her up again. Her form was smaller, and lithe, same hair and facial features. Sousuke's eyes shifted over then to Tama and Okibi and in that moment he proceed to give ten-thousand giga whatts fold of his fullest attention.
 
Tama’s hands gripped the sides of Okibi’s dress in reaction to her sudden grip on his coat. If she was going to hold him down then he’d do the same!
It was hard to justify reactions when you were drunk.
The words she whispered up into his ear, however, threw what little train of active thought he had and his hands let go of the dress. A deep red blush raised up into his face following her lips and for a moment he had the blankest look on his face that would give Sousuke’s neutrality a run for its money. Obviously his mind was suddenly speed cycling through his third eye exactly what she was whispering to him and it stunned him on the spot as if she had whispered a paralyzing genjutsu in his ear instead.

Her sudden exit to the closeness was what broke up his mind again away from that thought process as well as really everything that was going on; the rum was really swimming through his stream now. Forced to rely on his instincts Tama focused on what he could see and hear which Okibi was dancing with a wild but steady rhythm and the fun bouncy song she was doing it to.
Well he had offered her to dance right? He had been hoping that they would continue in the dance that her and Sousuke were undertaking since it seemed a lot less elaborate than what the music dictated. He would have to try and reign in some control of his mind in order to continue on with his request. As much as he wanted to step off the dance floor he knew it would be bad form. So he closed his eyes and tried to figure his next move.
Slowly his foot tapped on the dance floor as he searched for the base rhythm in the song. Once he found it his hands were stuffed into the pockets of his pants as he made a step forward that turned into a slide up to Okibi as his eyes shot open. He saw the fire burning for him there and felt an almost trance like state hit his mind as he began to follow the lead she was presenting him.
His hands slipped out of his pockets to grab her wrist and pull her towards him in a spinning motion so that her back was pressed to his front. He leaned his head down to whisper back into her ear,
If that’s what your after then I might have to change my mind on what I had for you…

Tama was drunk, no questioning it.

He spun Okibi away with a playful grin as his feet began to pick up to the song more, kicking and spinning his body as if he had taken dance lessons since he was a child. He kept up in tune with the Wild Child’s routine as he never once questioned her state of mind as they preformed a duet that began to catch the eye of the crowd.
His hands snaked out around her waist and lifted her from the ground to spin her up and over his shoulder then back around his waist to set the girl back on the floor and dance back away from her before hopping and sliding back in towards her with a goofy red face grin splitting his cheeks.

This was just one of things that came with drinking liquor. Just like him flipping around the scalpel there were certain things that people just tended to do better when they didn’t have their brain filters inhibiting their actions for fear of shame. For Tama it apparently increased his social skills three fold to the point that he could flirt back, dance, and even use skills and tricks that his brain knew but his body wasn’t sure of just yet.
 
Okibi smiled brightly, and knowingly, as she turned away for just a second. She executed a perfect twist and kick combo, and when she landed back on her feet, she felt Tama's presence was suddenly much closer. She turned and looked up at him, seeing her excitement reflecting back at her in his mismatched eyes. When he grabbed her by the wrist and gave her a sudden spin, taking her into his body with her back to his chest, Okibi had to admit that she was almost stunned out of her drunkenness. Yes, she'd realized that Tama had been the one to come and ask her to dance, but in all honesty she didnt think he would take that well to it. He was, after all, so shy about physical things usually; that he'd gone and - quite literally - slid right into the role of a well versed, and playful dance partner astounded her.

And then he bent down and whispered those very . . . exciting words into her ear. Tingles rushed up and down her spine and Okibi wanted to melt into a puddle right there.

But there could be none of that! She had dancing to do!

She was spun away from Tama again before she could even make a retort, and she growled softly as she pouted. He teased her and she didnt get a chance to tease him back or find out what he meant? Oh hell naw.

As they continued to dance apart from each other for a few moments, Okibi didnt even notice the way the other dancers moved to the outside of the dance floor and stopped to watch them. They were drawing quite the little crowd; but hell could have been pigs could have been flying and Okibi pretty much would not have given a great sands damn. Tama had just taunted her in a most spectacular way, and not only was she now curious, but she had a very strong desire to one up him.

And she got the perfect chance when Tama suddenly wrapped an arm around her waist and hoisted her up on his shoulder. While up there, she ran one of her legs and and down his front, before dropping down and sliding her hands along the same path as he carefully lowered her back to the ground. She undulated onto her feet and spun away before kicking and hopping back to him. Her grin reflected his, and she took his left hand with her right one so they could dance together for a short while.

A part in the song came up where the tempo called for a few short, quick spins, so Okibi drew herself close and set her free hand on his shoulder before placing one of her legs between his and leading them into the tight spins. As they did this, she looked up at him and tip toed so she could give him a quick nip on the chin - a very canine like show of affection. "So what was it you had in mind for me before?" She asked, sounding both curious and drunkenly sultry at the same time. She spun away from him, not letting go of his hand, then spun right back into his chest. "You sure I can't have that . . . and what I want?" With her back to him again, she rolled her body just once, brushing her backside against his front, grinning like the cat that ate the canary all the while.

-----------

As Sousuke told his tale, Seven cleanly finished off his baked potato and the rest of his soda, and not without wondering why nobody else was eating. Chiyoko had vanished, the birthday girl was dancing with her besotted boyfriend, and Sousuke seemed more interested in telling him stories. Of course, Seven didnt mind listening to stories; he wasnt like Okibi, who couldnt stand long winded anythings. But still; everyones behavior was quite baffling. Werent they hungry?

The pup adjusted his bow as Sousuke finished his story, saying that he thought he might have seen his old school 'chum' in the crowds of the restaurant. Seven looked around, though he didnt know why he was; it wasnt like he knew what the supposed she-hulk looked like. But, he did find Sousuke's 'on edge'edness rather entertaining. Seeing any emotion at all on the guy was entertaining really.

"She sounds like a real piece of work, this old, school . . . 'acquaintance' of yours. What does she look like?" He asked as he continued to look around. For a moment, he watched Okibi and Tama dance, and couldnt help smiling. Drunk as the two were, it was a miracle they could dance together so well, even seeming like they'd completely coreographed their dance entirely before hand.
 
"In her unaltered she's roughly six foot two, ... her hair colour is ... usually a shade of brown or emerald green slightly past shoulder length. Muscular, but not comprising of the female figure. She has the proper curves. Her eyes are brown, and her Inuzuka markings are best described as twin lightning bolts across her left cheek. I recollect them being pink."<i></i> Sousuke lost track of her as she spun around in the room. "She doesn't wear dresses, prefers pant suits usually, but oftentimes she ... rips them in the arm section. "<i></i> The Steward's eyes narrowed, "I seem to have lost her. This is not good."<i></i> His gaze shifted back over to Okibi and Tama. "Surprisingly Shizune is wearing a dress, and her height is vastly less ... her marking isn't present and..."<i></i>

"Sir I think you dropped this, it's your tag."</I><i></i> A woman who sort of met the description Sousuke gave earlier was now at the table. "It says... Made In Heaven."<i></i> Sousuke's eyes veered left and then up. Sousuke's mouth closed slightly he gritted his teeth. He didn't close his lips, right away but soon enough his face went to deadpanned. "Speechless handsome? Why that's a first."<i></i>

"I think you have me mistaken for someone else."<i></i> He simply said in the most dead of expressions and tones.

The woman revealed the tag and it said in very curly letters 'Takahashi Sousuke - made in heaven'. Sousuke's eyes would shift over to Number Seven. "Would you care to dance? I think a girl like myself requires some grace, and from your display out there you are King of it." She smiled a very pretty smile, her teeth were sparkling it was almost blinding. <I>"It would be very rude for you to show a girl up or to keep a girl waiting."<i></i>

"I think you were already with someone--"<i></i>

"Oh. Him. I'm done with him."<i></i> She spoke pleasantly with a flick of her wrist she revealed his wallet and a handsome set of yen notes within. "Has a nice watch too, and a very big bank book. Come on Lover. Is that your brother with you? He's real cute. Maybe I should take him out for a dance."<i></i>

"He's not. He's a... friend's ... familiar."<i></i> Sousuke clarified quickly enough. "Shizune. Go home... or else."<i></i>

"Or else? Are you sure you want to fight here? Our last encounter I didn't want to fight you, and here we have what I think is the reverse."<i></i> She interrupted him. If Number Seven were to look to Sousuke's side he would see that Sousuke was now armed with an ebon long sword. "Oh please. Word travels about you and your ward. I'll be a good girl, I promise."<i></i> She offered her hand out to him.
 
That’s still a secret for later</B><i></i>,” he said as his body moved in fluid motions to his dance partner. His arm stretched out as she spun away from him and pulled her back into his arms. He grinned back down at her words as his left hand slowly stroked down her front unabashedly which proved even further the kind of element lots of liquor put him as he responded in kind to her words with a breathy sigh in her ear, “It is your birthday…birthday girl gets what she wants right?<i></i>”

His adventurous hand suddenly caught her wrist closest to her hip and spun her out again with a laugh. He was really enjoying returning the flirtatious talk back and forth. Unlike normal when she started talking to him like that he was able to take in and respond in kind. He was aware of what it did to him, drunk or sober, but he wondered just how crazy it was driving her. A drunk smirk cornered his left cheek as he rushed in to grab her hips again and swing her up into the air, back towards his hips, then back up in the air again to toss and catch with a spin before landing Okibi back to the dance floor to finish the dance by pulling her back into his arms, dancing a few steps backwards then turning a half circle to bend her backwards with his face continuously near as the band finished the song with a studden stop to all the rythem.
A roar went up from the crowd as the couple finished their dance all of them impressed by their youthful energy despite the liquor that flowed through their veins. Honestly Tama never would have been able to pull that off if he had been drinking rum.
Yet despite the cheering of the crowd all the blonde could even bother noticing was the smoldering heat radiating from the Wild Child’s eyes. His hand shifted over to where it could touch bare flesh as he slowly brought her back up to standing. He ebbed away some of the chakra their and took into the Inuzuka senses to gather her every scent as he had before, reveling in the sensation when combined with the heady rush of alcohol.

<B>So now wot,” he said with a slight slur as his body started to metabolize that third shot on his stomach. The food that he had eaten was slowly starting to work its way into helping him sober up but in stealing the special canine senses for a moment he practically doubled his drunken state; it was no wonder Okibi acted so crazy when on liquor.

Another song began to pick up though it seemed to be a little more like the previous song that had been playing before the one that Okibi and Tama nailed. Perhaps it was because there was some girl suddenly asking the Steward to dance and the DJ had some seriously sharp eyes, and though all this was happening the scientist could really find himself caring for nothing more than the opinion of the possibly hammered Okibi before him. Even as the music started up and the rest of the crowd began to come back in to dance he just stood there holding her.

Though he did have to admit standing was getting a little harder to do.
 
The last few moves that Tama flew her through were a complete blur to Okibi. Damn him, why wasnt he reacting to her advances the way he normally did!? He was . . . he was flirting back as hard as she was! And he wasnt even blushing (aside from the red his drunkenness was responsible for)! On one hand, Okibi was very distracted because of that, on the other, she was distracted for a wholy different reason. His large, strong hands on her body, the breathy words in her ear. Sands dammit all, but he was probably affecting her worse than she was him! Her legs were practically jelly when he hauled her off the floor, into the air, around his waist and back down again. She could barely make her limbs cooperate when he took her into backwards, then into a half spin and a very heady dip. His face was so close she could smell the sweet scent of alcohol on his breath.

Oh, how she wanted to steal that breath away.

Her ears were deaf to the cheer of the crowd they'd drawn, and her eyes blind to anyone other than Tama. Her heated gaze traced over the planes of his face, taking in ever fuzzy detail she could as she slowly wrapped her arms around his neck. Even as drunk as she was (and slightly annoyed with his different behavior if she were honest with herself) she couldnt help feeling absolutely . . . enchanted. Also hot, because the way Tama was trailing his hands over the exposed skin of her back was making her body very warm and tingly.

When Tama slowly drew her up out of the dip, she had to hold on tight because she really felt like her legs were going to give out on her after all that excitement. She was feeling a little dizzy too, because of all the spinning. But the desire coursing through her veins was so strong at that point that she hardly even cared. Her legs could have gone completely numb and she wouldnt have given a damn, so long as she had Tama to hold onto. Although, he did seem to be a little unsteady on his feet as well, so she tried to make her legs hold her up so she wasnt a burden.

He asked her what they should do next, and Okibi finally realized that the world hadnt stopped moving around them, and people were actually starting to dance again, this time to a slower tune; a romantic lilting song much like the one she'd danced to before. This time, however, Okibi didnt feel the desire to be flown around the room like before. Instead, she just wanted to stand there, and gently sway while in the circle of her blond scientists arms.

Smiling, Okibi leaned up and pulled on Tama's head at the same time. She buried her nose in his neck and trailed small, feather light kisses over his exposed skin. With a loud sigh, she pulled her arms down from around his neck, trailed them over his chest, and back around his waist and inside his jacket. She gave him a squeez as she settled her head on his shoulder with a smile. "Mmm. We could go eat now . . . or dance some more . . ." Her words were soft and slightly slurring, much like Tama's. Then she looked up at him with a smile, and a 'sleepy' sort of droop to her eyes. "Or we could leave," She whispered as she bunched her hands up in the hidden material of Tama's shirt, drawing it up. Then she slipped her hands up under it, and ran her palms and claws over the warm skin of his back. "And you can give me my presents." She finished, her smile turning devious.

In the moments following Okibi's attempts to seduce Tama into leaving with her, an odd series of events occurred. A loud ruckus started up at the other side of the restaurant, coming from the swinging doors that lead to the kitchen. They burst open and a crowd of employees came rushing out, all of them looking irate and ready to strangle as they seemed to be chasing something. Something low to the ground. The herd rushed through the tables as their target dashed around and under them, making guests shriek and yelp and jump out of their seats.

At one point, it made it's way to the dance floor, and a small, white and black streak zipped across the smooth wooden floor. Apparently the polished surface threw the culprit off as it lost its balance on its legs and went tumbling end over end across the floor, barreling right into Okibi's legs.

Now, since she was already unsteady on her feet, and a little tired after the dancing she'd just done, Okibi went down pretty easily. Her eyes widened as she gasped, tightened her hold around Tama, and went tumbling to the ground. She landed with a thump and a crack as the back of her head smacked into the hard floor. For a few moments, she was completely dazed and dizzy eyed.

And just like that, the cause of her and Tama's fall got back to its feet and dashed off again, but not before everyone on the dance floor could see its form. It was a . . . dalmation puppy . . . with a whole chicken stuffed between its jaws.

It made a mad dash away from the dance floor and back into the tables and chairs, the restaurants employees hot on his tail and angry as hornets. He leaped onto a chair, then a table, and up onto a certain Inuzuka's head. He bounced off the woman's hair and onto the table at which Seven and Sousuke were sitting. Seven had just been about to advise Sousuke to put his blade away when the ruckus had started, and since then hadnt been able to look away from it. He could, after all, smell the presence of another dog.

And that dog, which was actually a pup only a couple weeks older than him, landed on their table with a crash, knocking over the glasses and causing a few plates of food to go careening off the table. Seven stood up, but was unable to do anything to stop the pup as he launched himself off the table and through a nearby open window.

"That . . . was unexpected . . . " He said, looking to Sousuke. Then the crowd of angry employees started rushing the window, trying to follow the pup while others made beelines for other exits. "And that doesnt look very good . . ."
 
Sometimes there were moments in life where chaos was appreciated. For one who was so deeply rooted in order and organization, Sousuke was infinitely pleased with the results. The puppy which was a delightful distraction. The surprise that came caught Shizune offguard and ruined her disguise. Her transformation jutsu began to falter as her Inuzuka markings faded in. Sousuke unsummoned his weapon but slammed his forearm against the table and upon impact sheet metal crept up and around his body quickly encasing himself in the Mark I. "I'm going to tear that jackass a new one."<i></i> Shizune growled her teeth resembling fangs. "Grrr..."<i></i>

Sousuke had a number of things to deal with. An angry Inuzuka Shizune, if this came to blows he would lose within time, there was angry staff members running about, an Okibi and Tama that needed to be kept watch on, and then... there was a Dalmatian puppy that was probably going to be killed due to running off with a chicken in its mouth. While Sousuke was not emotionally attached to stray dogs, his mother had a soft spot for dogs. If she heard that said puppy was killed, he would never hear the end of it. Sousuke reached out and grabbed Number Seven. "We're going to find that puppy before any harm comes to it, I am not going to be subjected to a lecture by certain people about my inability to act, feel, or pity. Prepare for phase shifting movement in three... two..."<i></i>

Before Sousuke counted down to one Shizune grabbed him by the wrist and asserted force. Was it because she was still in pain from being jumped on, or because she didn't want Sousuke to escape her without getting a dance out of him, was an unknown. A very loud crack came out of the Steward's arm as the Takahashi Fire-Forged Steel was slightly crushed. Number Seven could feel Sousuke slightly buckle and he heard for the first time and perhaps the last an audible signifer of pain from Sousuke. "Arrrggaahh..zzztt"<i></i> The sound was both metallic and of Sousuke's own voice. Beneath the face plate he gritted his teeth. Sousuke still managed to shadow dance out of the room but he took with him two additional others.

For Number Seven things would come as a blur as Sousuke was moving at rapid speeds. Within a minute or so after moving at rapid speeds, Number Seven would find himself resting over Sousuke's shoulder. In his left hand Shizune was still present. Her iron grip still latched onto him, and in the other hand Sousuke had a Damaltian puppy who was still had a chicken in his mouth. Location wise ... well ... that was the hard part. Sousuke seemed to have been thrown for a loop as he was slightly dazed. They were now on a roof top. Probably on top of the restaurant. "Gimme him."<i></i> Shizune would say in the most threatening of tones.

"No."<i></i> Sousuke would reply in a slightly strained voice beneath the Mark I faceplate. He would turn to Number Seven. "Get his name, get what he's trying to do, and then proceed to tell him it wasn't a good idea... and then proceed to explain to him ... what just happened because I reacted on a limb and for reasons unknown."<i></i> Sousuke would then look down below to see the mob after said puppy on what was best described as a patrol. "Why ... did I do this exactly?"<i></i>

"You wanted to dance with me, and now we're up here ... and slightly more by ourselves."<i></i>
 
The scientist chuckled drunkenly at her words as his hands wound a little further down her back that was usually socially permitted and was about to respond when all of a sudden…

This was a constant them in the scientist’s life and he was starting to get used to it. Perhaps it was because he was so damn drunk that he didn’t really give two flying somersaults about anything, that he wasn’t as annoyed by the sudden chaos as he normally was. In fact, as his eyes half-ass pursued the running puppy with a chicken in its mouth he began to see an opportunity. Indeed if he was to present his gift to Okibi the way he wanted to he was going to need to somehow get her back to his house because it wasn’t something he could haul along. Well, he could have, buuuuut it was something that was kind of personal between them. He already knew the awkward meter was going to be silly enough as it was but that had the chance to send it a little overboard. Of course when the canine knocked her over the scientist almost came tumbling down with her. His eyes bulged open with that "oh sheet!" look to them. Carefully he helped Okibi back up from the ground and laughed a little at the entire situation.

The opportunity presented itself a little when the Steward suddenly rushed out of the restaurant with his company to go chase after the puppy. Yet when he tried to move he felt his legs become suddenly stone like and hard to shift; no way he was walking back right now.
Apparently his sudden dancing had worn him out a lot more than he had intended and the need to go sit down was overwhelming. So taking his hand in hers he attempted to wade across the dance floor through the other couples out there cutting a rug to get back to their messy table where someone was already trying to clear it off. He flopped into his seat and sighed happily as the liquor continued to course through his veins.

The table was cleared off rather fast and he kind of noticed someone apologizing and swearing to make another order right away, to which Tama just kind of waved his hand at and ordered another drink. As delicious as the food had been he didn’t really feel like eating right now. Shortly after his dismissal another chilled 8-ball glass with rum in it was offered to the scientist along with a glass of pineapple juice. Pouring the juice on top of the liquor and mixing it with the little black plastic stick in the glass he made his own drink to his tastes.
It’s less fancy,<i></i>” he said slowly, “Buuuut it tastes goooooood. You should try it.<i></i>”

He lifted the beverage to his lips and sipped at the bitter sweet mixture.
 
Up on the rooftop doggie paws - hit the roof without a cause~

Seven shook his head after falling off of Sousuke's shoulder and rubbed his head as he looked around. One moment he was inside the restaurant, watching the employees run around in a frenzy, and the next thing he knew he was up on the roof top, slung over Sousuke's shoulder. Damn if the guy didnt know how to show a dog a good time.

In the human's right hand the dalmatian puppy hung with his paws dangling in the air. He seemed dazed as well - though only for a few moments - before he started to wiggle and fight.

"Let go of me you stupid, ugly human!" Seven heard the spotted pup growl around his chicken.

"He wants you to put him down." Seven translated helpfully, not paying much attention to the interactions between Sousuke and the woman. The pup continued to growl as he squirmed. Eventually he just dropped the chicken and started to gnaw at the armored hand wrapped around him. "Let me go! If I dont get to her before those humans do they'll KILL her!"

Seven's eyebrows shot up. What was he talking about? "Kill her? Kill who? Sousuke, he says someone is going to be kille if you dont let him go."

The dalmation snapped its head around and glared at Seven, seeming to suddenly realize that he wasnt a human, but a dog like him. "You smell like one of us . . . but you look like one of them. The heck are you? A freak?" He didnt waste much time wondering before he was wiggling and biting again. "Let. Go. Of. Me!"

----------------

Inside the restaurant, Okibi was recovering from her fall on the floor, nursing the back of her head with a grimace as Tama pulled her through the crowd and towards the table. When the blond suggested that she try his drink, she shook her head slightly before settling herself down on his knee. She placed her head on his shoulder and whined softly. Either her drinks were finally catching up with her or she'd hit her head pretty damned hard, because everything was spinning and her head was throbbing. "Did you get the number of the train that ran me over?" She murmured into Tama's neck. Then she looked up and around the table. "Where did everyone go? And wheres the food?"

Sudden thought struck her as she sat up, wincing slightly, and looked Tama in the eye. "Wait a minute, what were we just talking about out there?" She gave him a confused tilt of the head as she thought. For some reason, she was having a hard time processing everything. "I dont think sitting down was one of the options I gave us . . ." Then she gave up and plopped her head back down on her beau's shoulder. "Augh, my head hurts. Why does my head hurt? Make it stop Tami."
 

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