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Chapter Text

  "Man, that was the best Halloween yet!" A rowdy teen pumped fists in celebration. "You should have seen the haul I made!"

  "We did Abyo!" Ching giggled at her boyfriend's antics. "We were all there, remember?" She glanced at the other, quieter couple. "I'm so glad you two came with us. I know how busy you've been with catching up in training and looking for the right therapists. By the way, how has that been going?"

   They gave the thumbs up.

  "Good!" The girl smiled at the news. "Is it helping any?"

   Garu nodded. 'I can't believe how much.' He felt Pucca cling to his arm causing his lips to curl up. 'Maybe my life will finally go back to normal, well, I version of normal at least.'

  "Hey!" Abyo turned the other boy in the group. "If you're not busy right now do you want to go spar?"

  "Hold in right there!" Putting her hand on his shoulder she told him. "Don't forget we already have plans. In speaking for which, the two of us should get going." Ching dragged Abyo along with her. "We'll see you later!"

   Stunned by their friends' sudden departure the remaining pair weakly waved goodbye.

  'Well, what are we going to do now?' He looked down at his girlfriend cuddling into him and smirked mischievously. 'I have an idea.' Garu leaned down propping the maiden pucker her lips.

   But at the last second the teen threw his head back.

  "Hmf!" Pucca clenched her fists to her sides and stomped in frustration.

   Ceasing his opportunity the ninja took off only to abruptly stop to flash the girl a wide grin. 'You're going to have to work for it today!' With a hearty chuckle he fled in the direction into the direction of the forest.

   Trying to cover up her smile with a pout Pucca ran after her love fully intending to collect that kiss, with interest.

   Many villagers watched fondly as the same old dance carried on at the rhythm of a new upbeat song.

   The silent ninja skillfully hopped from the narrow tops of bamboo shoots at speeds most runners could only dream of. 'I'm still out of shape. At this rate she'll catch me in no time.' Garu thought to himself as a familiar burn simmered in his legs that would normally light much later in the chase. He sped up with even more defiant determination. 'I need to think of something fast! This straightforward tactic isn't going to work!'

   Pucca giggled as she practically shipped across the greenery knowing she would soon get her man.

  'I got it! This has to work!' Garu leaped to the bamboo tree to his side causing it to creak loudly. 'Here goes nothing!' Kicking off the warrior was launched through the woods and away from his girlfriend. 'Yes!' He smirked to himself seeing his plan's success. 'Now, to stick the landing.' His outstretched arms reached for a large branch in front of him.

   But alas, the teen lacked the momentum needed to grab it as his fingers lightly brushed against and he slammed into the pond below. The resulting splash spattered water high up in the air.

   With his breath knocked clean out of him Garu struggled back to the surface as his stomach throbbed from the force of the belly flop. Popping out of the pond the ninja made a desperate gasp for oxygen before focusing his remaining energy to swimming to the bank. 'Cold!' He clawed at the grass at the edge of the water and crawled hastily out of his impromptu pool. 'Cold!' A shivering Garu curled up into a ball trying to retain some heat. 'Cold….'

   Soon a rustling in the brushes to  reveal a curious Pucca that came to investigate the crash that echoed in the forest. "Oh!" The maiden quickly rushed to her shaking love fearing the worst. "Hm…." Looking further she noticed how damp Garu was. 'He's soaked to the bone!' A concerned Pucca could practically hear the poor boy's teeth chattering. 'I need to get him in something dry quickly or he'll get sick! His home should be nearby.'

   The other teen groaned a bit when he was lifted up but upon finding the warmth the girl provided he snuggled into her.

   Holding him tightly Pucca dashed to her chosen destination.

  'There it is!' She shifted Garu into one arm to unlock the door. 'Now to get him into fresh clothes…. Wait….' The young lady sighed at a realization. 'If he wakes up while I'm undressing him it could send him into a panic and ruin his trust in me forever.' Rocking the napping ninja Pucca spoken gently. "Wake up Garu, you have got change before I let you sleep anymore. I don't want you getting a cold, ok?"

   Those words seemed to go through as he stirred. The warrior put a hand on her shoulder to signal he was ready to be put down. Just as Garu stood on his own a draft went through that made him and girlfriend both shiver.

  'Guess that's what I get for carrying a wet ninja. Oh well, it was worth it.' She watched her boyfriend rubbing his arms as he shook. 'But it's a lot worse for him.' Pucca pressed her lips together then grabbed some clothes for him. Gently handing then over the girl gave the boy a small smile.

   He returned it with a grateful nod. With a soft click Garu was in the restroom leaving Pucca alone.

   The cool air continued to nip at her belly as she waited for him. 'I need to change too, if I get sick Garu might think it's his fault and feel really guilty.' She hummed in discontent all the thought. 'But I don't want to leave him like this. Hope he doesn't mind me borrowing something.' A nervous Pucca dug through the few clothes he had and made a mental note to buy the warrior more underwear. 'I can't blame him for not wanting the ones Ring Ring took back. Who knows what the monster did while she had them.'

   Before more disdain could swell into her gut she spotted it.

Chapter Text

   It was at the bottom of the drawer under everything else.

   A curious Pucca lifted up the set of clothes. 'It's not even that well worn. Why would he have it out of the way like this?' That's when she noticed the size of her boyfriend's otherwise normal ninja attire. 'Oh he must have gotten this right before his last growth spurt!" The girl giggled to herself as she reminisced. 'It made Garu so frustrated! I thought he was going to scream when he didn't fit in my sidecar!' Cold bit at her poorly protected body quickly getting her back on track. 'It's not too big, I think. Guess I'll put this on now.'

   Slipping off her wet dress and leggings Pucca so discovered she was at a crossroads of sorts.

  'Should I take this off too?' The maiden looked down at the fabric around her chest. 'It's soaked and they're already uncomfortable enough dry…. I hope Garu doesn't notice.' Pucca undid the latch at the back and set the cloth on top of her little pile. Praying she wouldn't get caught with this much exposed flesh the girl hastily pulled on the outfits sans the gloves and shoes. 'This thing is almost like a pair of pajamas on me.' She fondly mused hugging the dry material. 'It feels so good!'

   A creak of a door turned her head.

   She found her shocked love furiously blushing at finding his girlfriend in his old uniform. The whole situation caused her own cheek to flush. "Um…. Oh!" Pucca picked up her stuff and walked past the still stunned Garu. "I'll take our clothes outside to dry off so they don't ruin, ok?"

  "O-ok." The ninja stuttered as she raced out the door.

  'Why am I so flustered?' Pucca stepped off the porch with bare feet. 'I mean, I'm just wearing his old clothes. It shouldn't be this awkward!' She slowly pinned the wet rags to the clothes line hoping time would stop the butterflies in her stomach. 'That's normal for people dating, right?' The girl loudly sighed. 'Oh, I don't know! Life was so much simpler when I was just chasing him! But still…. I don't think I would trade this for the world.' Without explanation as Pucca continued her task she happened to glance to her side.

   A small tub sat there as innocent as can be. It looked perfect for someone a few years younger than the maiden but far too small for someone of her beloved Garu's height.

   Maybe she could ask her uncles to get him a bigger one? 'His birthday is coming up soon and none of us have really gotten anything for him yet. He isn't exactly the easiest person to shop for. Besides new ninja gear and stuff he needs Garu never seems to want much of anything. He certainly doesn't ask for it anyway.' The young lady hummed with pressed lips. 'And I really wanted to get him something special this year too. Goodness knows he deserves it after going through what Ring Ring did.' Pucca reached to hang the next garment up only to find there was nothing else left.

   The tip back inside was longer than the one out.

   What sight she was met with caused a giggle to bubble in her throat.

  "Hm!" Garu tried to hold back the pink feline smothering his face with affection. "Yani, stop." He mumbled quietly. The warrior sitting up on his bed mat with his hair down and the covers pulled over his leg. "Please, that's enough."

  "Should I be jealous?" Pucca teased as she took a seat next to the slightly distressed teen. "She looks like she's trying to replace me."

  "Meow!" Suddenly her cat jumped into her lap instead and demanded her human give her the love she desired.

  "Guess that's a no." Another laugh escaped the girl's throat. "She's been very loving recently." Pucca scratched Yani's chin. "Ever found out what was wrong with her?"

  "Not really." He huffed at his lack of answers. "Whatever it was, she hated being inside and Mio was right out there with her."

  "In speaking of Mio, where is he anyways?" The maiden laid on her side facing her boyfriend. "Those two never leave each other alone for long."

  "Hunting, he's been doing that a lot lately." Laying down Garu pulled up the thick blanket to their torsos. "I'm beginning to suspect they believe I don't feed them enough because Mio keeps giving his catch to Yani."

  "That's sweet of him." Pucca rested her head on the older teen's chest. "Maybe he gets it from you?"

  "Yeah, maybe…." The tiredness from the unexpected swim washed like a wave over him as her words didn't register. He snaked an arm around his petite girlfriend and lifted her halfway on top of him. "Mm…. You're warm…."

   Low and husky from the loud call of sleep Garu's voice made Pucca's heart race. 'Why does Ring Ring have to be right about that?' She growled softly at the little shrew's words from the trail. 'Why doesn't she just leave the island already!' The young woman dug her cheek into the slumbering man's shirt. 'There's no way that girl can savage her life here.'

   A pink nose rammed into the thinking teenger's face seeing that she was still awake.

  'You just never give up, huh?' Smiling at Yani's quest for love that was similar to the one she was on for many years, Pucca let her hatred subside once more. 'Seems like the two of us are just alike.' She stared into the cat's light green eyes. 'But we have what we want, us two just got to enjoy it.' Feeling the gentle fingers of rest and lolled by Garu's deep breathing ,Pucca was about to join him in his fate. 'Yep, just gotta… enjoy… it….'

   The feline didn't share her secret as she went to nap with the humans.

Chapter Text

   An itchy nose semi woke the sleeping ninja. After a quick scratch he snuggled in what he presumed was his pillow once more.

  'It's softer than I remember.' Garu laid a hand aside his face. 'Why is there a lump there?' The curious teen gave it a squeeze as he felt too lazy to open his eyes. 'What is this thing? Whatever it is it feels nice.'

  "Um…. Garu?" A nerious Pucca spoke softly. "Could you…. Not do that please?"

  "Hm?" He took a peek to see what the girl was talking about only to jump away in horror.

   What the warrior had been touching was one of his girlfriend's breasts.

   Curling up into a tight ball of embarrassment Garu covered his face with both hands and didn't mutter a sound. 'I'm just like her, aren't I? What if Pucca leaves me over this? What if this gets out and everyone hates me?' Without noticing his breathing was becoming dangerously fast.

  "Hey! Hey! It's alright Garu." Seeing his distress the maiden rushed to his side. "It was an accident, it happens." Her small fingers gently helded the boy's shoulders. "I'm not mad at you."

   He abruptly dropped his arms to look at her in disbelief. "You're not? But Ring Ring-"

  "Did something horrible, on purpose." She explained slowly. "You didn't. This was a misunderstanding, right? Did you know what you were doing?"

  "No!" Garu answered desperately hoping the girl believed him. "I-I just, I was trying to figure out what I was laying on! I didn't-" The ninja took a deep breath and said softly. "I didn't know I was…. Touching… you…."

  "See?" Pucca gave him a small smile. "It was just a small mistake, nothing more. Now I need you to calm down for me, ok?"

  "Ok." The ninja closed his eyes and focused on his meditation breathing techniques. 'But why are they so soft?' His cheeks flushed. 'Stop that!'

   It took a few minutes but tension in the room lessened and things settled in the tiny home.

   Soon the young couple sat relaxing next to each other with elbows touching. These small, quiet moments always made Garu give a content sigh. 'I think next time I fall into a lake I'll do it in warmer weather.' A smile played at his lips. 'But I'm not going to lie, it is nice.'

   Unfortunately for him Pucca decided that she needed to get up.

  'What's wrong?' The warrior watched his girlfriend head toward the door. 'Oh! Our clothes! I get it now. Wait….' He stood up and marched in front of her. 'What do you think you're doing?' Garu crossed his arms and made a disapproving face. 'You are not going out there with bare feet, it's too cold!'

  "Hmf!" She promptly pouted at her boyfriend's protective nature and tried to step around him.

   Using his size to his advantage Garu blocked the exit. The teen turned sideways to Pucca as he pointed at himself. 'I'll get them.' He wordlessly told her. 'It's the least I could do.'

   With a huff the girl relented and let the boy do her job for her.

  'Ok, clothes.' He winced when the cool air hit his face. 'A front must have come through, it's colder than it was this morning.' Garu went around the corner. 'I hope my jacket still fits…. I'd hate to buy another one.' Stopping but the clothesline the teenager put the garments belonging to his girl under his arm. 'My stuff is going to have to be washed. I'm sure everyone doesn't want me smelling fishy tomorrow.'

   Thinking he had everything Garu was about to go back inside before something caught his eye.

  'Why is this out here?' Grabbing the strange cloth the ninja held it closer to his face for further inspection. 'Does Pucca always wear a swimsuit under her clothes?' He felt the soft material. 'It's not made like any other swimsuit I've ever seen. I'll have to ask her about it.'

   Holding it out like it was going to bite him, Garu headed back in his house.

  "H-hey Pucca?" The teen hesitantly spoke out when going through the threshold. "What's this?"

   She turned away from petting Yani. "What you mean -oh!" A blush rouse in her face as she put the cat to the side. "That's a bra." Pucca answered with an embarrassed tone.

  "That doesn't tell me much." He confessed honestly. "I'm afraid you are going have to explain."

  "Oh." Shifting her feet awkwardly Pucca took a deep breath. "It's a thing women wear to keep our… assets from bouncing too much."

  "Um…. Why does it need to do that?" Garu tilted his head as he guessed. "Does it distract everyone?"

  "No…. Maybe? I don't know." She gently took the clothes from the clueless boy including the topic of their discussion. "What I was told is that they hurt when they do that."

  "Does that mean you need to go put it on now?" Her caring boyfriend questioned earnestly. "I can wait 'til you get back."

  "Garu, I would have to be running around for them to be a problem…." Pucca glanced down at her small chest. "And several sizes bigger…."

  "I'm sorry, did I make you upset?" The apprehensive warrior noticed the disappointed tone in her voice. "We can drop this if you want."

  "No, it's fine." The young lady sighed as she held her garments close to her. "It's just…. I'm not as… well endowed as Ching or Ring Ring. I guess I'm just feeling a little self conscious."

  "Why? I think you look nice the way you are." Garu lifted her chin so she could meet his eyes. "I fell in love with you as a person, not your body. As long as you're healthy, that is the important thing. Please don't worry about it too much."

  "I love you!" Pucca dropped everything to squeeze her love tightly.

   Garu hugged back lightly. "I love you too."

   Some time later she let go with a shy smile. "Can I um…. Can I please keep this?" The girl tugged on the shirt she was wearing. "Since you can't wear it anymore?"

   Unable to stop a grin Garu chuckled. "Sure."

   That evening he walked her home and was rewarded a kiss for his efforts.

Chapter Text

   The next day Pucca woke up in her new pyjamas.

  'No wonder he wears these so much.' She thought to herself as she stretched out. 'They are so comfortable!' With a quick yawn Pucca hopped out of bed and got ready for the day. 'I'll have to see if Garu has any more that are too small for him when I outgrow these.' Changing out of the night clothes and into her normal attire the girl smiled to herself. 'It was like having him next to me.'

   After she brushed her hair and fixed to the usual style, Pucca slid down the pole.

  "What do you think we should do Dumpling?" The niece heard her uncle Linguini ask in a hush tone. "It's only in a few weeks, think we'll have everything ready?"

  "I'm sure we will." The thick bearded chef comforted him. "This isn't our first rush job."

  "To be honest I am more worried about what to get him." Ho confessed as him set a large, clean pan on the stove.

  "Get who?" The question slipped naturally out of Pucca's lips as she hugged her nearest guardian.

  "Ah, you caught us." Linguini patted her back. "We're trying to think of what to get Garu for his birthday. Any idea?"

  "Um…. Yeah." She pulled away with an apprehensive look on her face. "But it might be a bit… pricey."

  "Well, what is it?" A curious Dumpling leaned forward a little. "We might be able to get it."

   She embraced him next and answered. "A bathtub, his old one is too tiny for him now."

  "That may work." The fiery tempered uncle folded his hands into his sleeves. "We should probably get him some blinds like ours while we're at it. Ring Ring won't stay pent up at the Dong King forever."

  "True." Linguini huffed in annoyance. "I bet one of the first things that will be on that girl's mind when she eventually recovers is Garu. If this can make his life easier, even a little, I say we go for it!"

  "Agreed." Dumpling nodded solemnly. "Hopefully this will put him more at ease." He turned to the young lady. "Thank you so much Pucca, we don't know what we'd do without you."

  "But what about the cost?" Pucca hugged Ho as she muttered the question. "It's not going to be too expensive, right?"

  "No, little one, it's not." He smiled gently while giving her a reassuring squeeze. "The restaurant does very well and a tub is far from out of the question. But adding the large blinds too well…. Christmas is going to be smaller this year."

  "That's ok." She said resting her head on his chest. "I can't think of anything I want anyways."

  "Well I can see why!" Linguini remarked with a smirk. "Winning Garu's heart is everything you've ever wanted! Nothing we could get you could top that, but that being said, we will get you something." He stroked his goatee. "But I must say I'm more than a little curious about what you're going to give him, mind telling us?"

   Her face went red from embarrassment as she mumbled under her breath.

  "I'm sorry what was that?" Dumpling said with a slight edge of concern in his voice. "I couldn't quite hear that."

  "Underwear…." The regret in Pucca's tone was as pain as day. "I'm sorry…. I just don't know what Garu would want." She let go of her uncle and hung her head. "Am I a bad girlfriend?"

  "No you're not." Ho gentle laid his hands on the girl's shoulders in an attempt to comfort her. "I'm sure you have a good reason, but can you explain why?"

  "Ok." The maiden looked at at him with uncertainty. "Remember when Officer Bruce searched Ring Ring's bedroom?"

   They all nodded slowly.

  "Well… he found Garu's stolen clothes and offered to give them back but Garu refused for obvious reasons." She had to push down her anger at the other teenager before continuing. "Which is why he only has two extra pairs."

  "That is a very good reason." Admitted Linguini with firm nod.

  "And shows how much consideration you have for Garu's wellbeing." The large chef fond gaze fell of his niece. "I believe gifting him what he needs first versus what you think he would like proves you truly love him." He paused. "Though I would still put something else in there too, not a lot of people get too thrilled about getting underwear for their birthday."

   Pucca giggled a little and nodded. 'Nice to know I don't have to feel guilty about that. Now the question is what else should I get him, hm….'

  "Sorry I'm late!" Dada burst in and run by Dandy, who was already somehow peeling potatoes. "The cats were more demanding than usual this morning."

  "It's alright Dada!" Dumpling set out two large knifes and a cuting board. "You're note that late, Garu hasn't arrived with the ingredients yet."

  The ponytailed uncle chuckled. "Just go set the tables and we'll call it even."

  "T-thank you!" He nervously scampered off to his post. "I wouldn't let it happen again!"

   The chefs wordlessly nodded as they went on with their prep work.

   Just as scheduled in a few short minute the ninja had delivered the supplies.

  "Ah, thank you Garu!" Ho cheered as he was handed the bag. "This should be all we need today, so why don't you and Pucca go have some fun?"

   The young couple gave the man a strange look.

  "We plan to be opened a short while." He calmly explained. "There is a event scheduled at the Goh-Rong coming up, so the three of us are trying to put the menu in order. I'm afraid these people are quite private and wished for things to be kept on the down low."

  "Uh, that's right!" His tattooed brother blurted out quickly. "These folks have picky pallets meaning that we will need to put the utmost care in the dishes served. Surely you two can understand that!"

   The quiet teens nodded though still confused by the news.

  "Now run along." Dumpling ushered them out the kitchen with a little too big of a smile. "The crisp autumn air won't enjoy itself!"

   Though the men's behaviour was slightly off it didn't sit too long on the pair's minds as they did as they were told.

Chapter Text

   The dirt roads of the village were calm except for one particular thing.

  'Why are all those people at the dock?' Garu raised a brow at the large gathering. 'Did something happen?'

  "You guys aren't going to believe this!" Ching sprinted up excitedly. "A famous actor is going to stay in Sooga for a while." She grabbed her friends by the risk and proceeded to drag them along. "Come on! We gotta go see!"

   The ninja glanced to his side to see his girlfriend with an amused smile on her face. 'This should be…. Interesting. Wonder who it is.'

   Soon the trio were standing on the peer with the growing crowd. A small yacht was anchored next to them with a small ramp at the ready to unload the human cargo.

   Ching had let go by the time they made it in front of everyone. "Hopefully this person is the real deal and not like the 'director' that showed up years ago. Though it was kinda funny watching everyone try to get in his movie."

  "Uh-huh." Pucca nodded with a wide grin. She still had her trophy from that day.

  'Oh yeah!' Her boyfriend looked back at the memory. 'I almost forgot about that! Man, everyone was acting weird around me. And was I the only one that didn't want to be in it?' He raised a brow. 'Why do so many people want to be famous? It seems like a bother if you ask me. I could barely handle two 'fans,' can't imagine how having hundreds chasing you would be like.' The warrior shivered at the thought of more people like Ring Ring after him. 'It must be awful!'

   Seeming sensing the boy's discomfort the girl slipped her hand around his and gave a gentle squeeze.

   As he returned it a gruff voice sounded from the fancy boat. "What's up, party people!" A young man dressed in purple sweats stepped out. "Your boy Chad is here!"

  "Oh he looks just like you Garu!" The swords girl said in awe. "He could be your twin!" She watched the strangely familiar stranger strutted towards them. In a moment of bravery or stupidity Ching called out. "Hey! This may be a weird question, but when's your birthday?"

   With a sly grin Chad came over to the small group of friends like he was larger than life. "December second, sweetheart." The actor answered in a flirtatious tone. "It's coming up soon, maybe you could uh…. Pay me a visit?"

  "Sorry, but no." A disappointed Ching replied awkwardly scratching the back of her head. "I'm already taken."

  "Shame." The celebrity shrugged and went back scanning the crowd. "Oh and who might you be, doll?" He sported a wolfish grin when addressing the maiden in red. "Care to introduce yourself?"

   Before Pucca had a chance to respond, however, Garu stepped in front of her with a stern look on his face.

  "Her boyfriend I take?" Chad sounded genuinely unimpressed. "Sorry bud, but chicks can't resist me, she'll be mine before you know it." The man smirked evilly at the other. "So why don't ya get lost, huh?"

   The warrior clenched the fist that wasn't holding his beloved. 'Well, you're out of luck then.' He didn't move as he stared down the actor. 'Because Pucca isn't just some 'chick' and she certainly would never want to be with someone like you.'

   Thankfully a young lady in a maroon ninja outfit disrupted the tension when she matched off the yacht and next to Chad saying. "You're not already flirting with every girl in sight again are you?" Her heavy accent called him out in an annoyed tone. "Chad, I thought you were better than this!"

  "Aw, babe!" The teen gingerly held her shoulders as he gave her a fond smile. "I would never do something like that to ya. I was just trying to make some new friends that's all." Chad took her by the hand. "Let's go check this place out babe, there might be something ya like."

   The group of friends watched the guy blatantly lie to his girlfriend in shock. When the new arrival left they turned to each other.

  "Did you two see that?" Ching all but yelled. "That was awful! Who does  something like that!"

  'Him clearly.' Garu kept his rude comment to himself. 'Judging by how he acts I'd guess he's a lot like Ring Ring.' He subconsciously pulled Pucca gently against his side. "I don't think you two should go anywhere near him, he is not to be trusted."

  "Definitely." The lady in purple nodded. "I feel sorry for that girl though, having to date a liar."

  "Oh, I don't." Pucca wasn't fazed by the doubled take Garu and Ching were doing. "She said 'again,' meaning he's done this before." The maiden explained flatly. "Whoever knowingly dates a cheater doesn't deserve sympathy, only pitty."

  "Pucca, I don't think it's that simple." Ching spoke in uncertainty. "I'm sure she has a reason for what she's doing."

  "What could that possibly be?" The baffled boy blittered out still not fully understanding the complexity of relationships. "You wouldn't stand for it if Abyo cheated, then why should anyone else? Sorry Ching, but I'm with Pucca on this one." Garu felt his girlfriend hug him as he stood firm.

  "O-ok. I guess you're right." She muttered in surprise by the boldness of her usually silent friends. "I think we should probably get out of there now that the excitement is over."

   The pair nodded and they all left the dock.

  'I'm never going to do that to Pucca.' The loyal boyfriend wordlessly swore to himself. 'I rather die than betray her or her uncles' trust again.' He gazed at Pucca as she laughed at a joke Ching just told her. 'I'll make sure she never knows that heartbreak.'

   And that was a promise Garu would take with him to the grave.

Chapter Text

  "Ok, that's horrible, but what does it have to do with me?" Abyo said in confusion.

  "Nothing really." Ching huffed. "I just want you to know what this new guy is like."

  "A creepy famous dude trying to get into other girls pants behind his girlfriend's back." The impatient teen summed up. "Seems like normal celebrity stuff to me. What makes him special?"

  "He looks just like me." Garu alerted him swiftly. "The only differences I can think of are his hair is messier and wears purple sweats with some golden jewelry."

  "Don't forget his voice." Pucca piped in a slightly annoyed tone. "It's very grating on the ears."

   Those words earned a snicker from the talkative martial artist. "Dang that was brutal! You might need to take that on the road!"

   The maiden blushed as she gave him a grateful but shy smile of thanks.

  "I think we should change the subject." Ching spoke out of the blue. "Talking about someone behind their back, even when it's true, like this feels kinda…. Mean."

  "Fine." Abyo whined, wanting to hear more of Pucca's unintended jabs. "But what else are we going to talk about?"

  "I dunno…. Oh!" Suddenly she perked up. "Garu! Your birthday is coming up, planning anything?"

  "Wait." Her boyfriend blurted out. "You told me we were-"

  "His plans, silly." Ching giggled at him. "We'll talk about our stuff later, ok?"

   His eyes widened in realization of something and nodded quickly.

   She looked back at the other boy in the group and asked again. "So, any plans?

  'Do I have plans?' He thought for a moment. 'No, I don't….' The ninja shook his head with a neutral face. 'If I'm being honest I kinda forgot about it….'

  "I see." The swords girl nodded slowly. "Maybe the chefs will give you the day off? That would be really nice of them."

  "Yeah, that would be cool!" Abyo hopped up excitedly. "You even take Pucca on a date!"

   The aforementioned girl grinned merrily at that.

  "Now that's a great idea!" Ching latched onto his enthusiasm. "It could even be an all day thing!" She grabbed Abyo's arm. "Don't worry about asking them Garu!" The maiden in purple winked. "We'll ask the uncles for you, it's the least we could do."

   The quiet pair once again watched their friends up and leave for the second time in two days.

  'They seem more excited for my birthday than I am.' Garu pondered an idea. 'Is it because of all the stuff that's happened? That makes sense, in a way it hurt them too.' He gave a long sigh. 'I just hope they don't bother the chefs too much about it. Getting that big private event in order has to be stressful enough without two teenagers begging for something.' The young man's eyes fell on his love. 'Though it would be nice if they said yes.'

   Pucca glanced his way with the same grin from earlier, no doubt thinking the same thing as him.

   As a thought rolled in his mind again Garu suppressed a smirk. 'I wonder if I can do it this time?' He abruptly tapped her while softly whispering. "Tag."

   The ninja took off like a gun with the maiden in hot pursuit.

  'Now this is more my element!' The highly-trained ninja dodged and weaved through an area of the woods that was so heavily shaded one would think it was night time. 'She may have super strength but even Pucca can't see in the dark!' He turned around a large tree to hide. 'That's odd….'

   The ground wasn't shaking.

  'Did lose her?' Garu leaped on a thick branch to survey his surroundings. 'I lost her….' The dumbfounded teen stilled for a second. 'I really lost her.' A sinister snicker sounded as a devious grinned spread across his face like wildfire. 'It's payback time!'

   Meanwhile a timided Pucca wondered helplessly in the forest.

  'Where did he go?' She jumped at a loud crack of the twig she had just stepped on. 'Oh, why did he have to go here? He knows I don't like being here alone!' The scared girl breathed deeply. 'Focus Pucca, what would Garu do in a dark place like this?' Her shoulders slumped. 'You already know the answer…. Anything.'

   A forgein howling wail of an unknown creature echoed.

   Ghost stories Abyo told of these exact woods nipped at the unfortunate girl's unruly imagination. 'What if something happens? I get eaten?' Pucca hugged herself in an attempt to deal with her growing fear. 'Th-that wouldn't happen.' She told herself. 'I-I haven't fought anything I couldn't beat.' The trembling young lady flinched again as she crushed another stick under her shoe. 'B-but I could always see them before, what if this time-'

   Something cut that thought off as it wrapped around her midsection.

   An Earth shattering scream shook the island as it tore from the terrified maiden's throat. She flailed and successfully escaped her captor's grasp.

   But Pucca didn't get very far as she tripped on a root that was peering from the ground.

  'Is this how I die?' She shut her eyes tighter than she ever had before and held her breath as her racing heart pounded out of her chest. 'But…. I never got to live out my life with Garu….'

   Boyish laughter filled the tense air.

   Confused, Pucca peeked up to find the unline of Garu doubled over as he cackled uncontrollably. Now understanding what had just occurred many emotions filled her gut but above all else was anger. Standing up she was all set to match off when strong arms from behind trapped her yet again.

   Garu could feel his small girlfriend try to wiggle herself free from his embrace. "It was my turn." The teen hummed as he tightened his hold and laid his head on her shoulder.

   Pucca had to pouted to keep a stupid smile from sprouting at the reverse of rolls. 'I'm going to get him so hard next time!' She felt his soft cheek nuzzle hers and relaxed. 'But I'm going to let him enjoy this victory, for now.'

   They stood there forgetting about the eerie forest and it's haunting tales.

Chapter Text

   Several days later the quartet of friends agreed to eat at the Goh-Rong after their class had ended.

  'What's going on?' Garu raised a brow at some of the villagers who seemed to be in a constant state of fear. 'Did something go down in the village?'

  "Guys, we need to think about what film we should watch next." Ching declared boldly. "Movie night is coming up tomorrow and I don't want to sit there arguing about what we pick, like last time."

  "An action movie!" Abyo punched the air in front of him. "I wanna see a good fight!"

  "But you always want to see an action movie!" His girlfriend complained.

  "Nuh-uh!" He protested back. "Sometimes I like to see thriller and horror ones!"

  'Thrillers are pretty much the same thing.' The ninja rolled his eyes at his friend's statement. 'And you only like horror movies if there are lots of action scenes.'

  "And we watched those last month." With a huff she suggested. "Maybe we should try a tragedy?"

   Garu and Pucca both stopped to look at her with eyes akin to a kicked puppy.

  "Oh sorry!" A bead of sweat hung from the side of an embarrassed Ching's head. "I forgot that you guys don't like those." She laughed awkwardly. "Forget I said that. How about a romantic comedy?"

   The silent boy sneered in disgust. 'Everyone in those films are so awful to each other.' He shook his head firmly. 'I'd rather read Romeo and Juliet.'

  "Ok…." The girl trailed off. "How about just a romance?"

  "Oo!" Pucca nodded fervently liking the idea.

  "Nah, a comedy." Abyo said dismissively. "Romances are too… touchy feely for me."

  "Well Pucca wants to see it." Ching countered as the group walked into the famous local restaurant. "And I do too, so unless Garu disagrees that's what we're watching."

  'Geez, thanks for the pressure.' The warrior pulled up a seat for his maiden before getting himself situated. He watched Pucca and Abyo turn to him with determined faces. 'Now I have to choose between my best friend and girlfriend, great.'

  "Come on Garu!" The martial artist slammed his hands on the table making a loud thud. "Don't you want to watch some cool guys kick butt?"

  'That sounds tempting.' Garu thought sarcastically as he glanced to his side.

   Pucca had her lower lip just barely sticking out in a clear ploy to persuade him with cuteness.

  'Aw the heck with it! It's time they get to pick.' He looked Abyo dead in the eyes and declared seriously. "Romance."

  "How could you betray me like this!" The disbelieving teen shouted not drawing attention of the people in the establishment as they saw this as business per usual. "Dating has really changed you, Garu! I thought I could always count on you!"

  "Will you stop?" Ching grabbed his sleeve and yanked him down. "He's allowed to choose himself and unlike you he chooses what other people want to watch."

  "Alright, fine!" Abyo crossed his arms and pouted. "But I wouldn't enjoy it!"

  "That's ok." She smiled at Pucca. "At least we'll enjoy it."

   The other young lady giggled mischievously.

  "Sorry about the wait!" Dada ran up with a pencil and notepad. "We've been kinda busy…. What can I get all of you?"

  "I'll have the dumplings!" The boisterous young man exclaimed.

   Ching raised her hand ever so slightly. "I'll have them too."

   Then Pucca nodded followed by Garu.

   The clumsy waiter quickly jotted it down. "Ok! Four orders of dumplings coming up!" He took a step to leave but turned back. "You guys want tea with this right?"

   They all nodded in confirmation.

   In typical Goh-Rong fashion the four didn't have to wait too long before plates of high quality food were set before them.

   With the silence of an ended conversation the ninja found himself a little too aware of the mood in the room. 'Why is everyone so tense?' Garu sipped his drink slowly. 'Everyone outside seemed afraid too.' His dark eyes drifted to his girlfriend.

   She was shifting uncomfortably, no doubt also sensing something was quite amiss. "Ching." Garu set the cup down. "I need to know, why has the village been so nervous for the past few days? Everywhere we go people are scared."

  "You didn't hear it?" Taking another bite Abyo answered incoherently with a full mouth.

   Ching glared at the teen's rude behavior. "What he means to say is we all heard a blood curdling shriek from the woods." She turned to her friends rather worried. "We think someone was attacked but no one is coming forward so far."

  "What if they were kidnapped?" A concerned Pucca questioned.

  The martial artist swallowed. "My dad already looked into it and there's no missing."

  "Wait…." Garu squinted his eyes in speciation. "Was this the same day Chad showed up?"

  "Yeah." The confused maiden nodded. "Why? You think he had something to do with it?"

   He shook his head as he leaned on the table with a hand over his month. 'Oh no….' The man's shoulders bopped up and down as he tried to sniffle his laughter.

  "Um…. Garu? What's wrong?" Abyo watched his friend in worry. "Do you know what happened?"

   The ninja could barely contain himself as he pointed at his girlfriend.

   Knowing exactly what he was referring to, Pucca shoved Garu playful causing him to burst into full on gut laughs.

  "Hold on a second." Ching was taken back. "That was you Pucca! Why did you scream like that? It sounded like you were getting murdered or something!"

  "Because Garu had the bright idea to scare me in the really dark part of the forest after I lost him." She halfheartedly glared at the chucking boy. "And I actually did think for a moment I was going to die."

  "I'm sorry Pucca." He still couldn't wipe the smile from his face. "But you've been doing the same thing to me for years and I thought it was time for some revenge."

   Abyo snickered at Pucca's pout. "I wish I coulda been there! Garu give me the details now!"

   A few deep breaths later the ninja told the story fondly.

Chapter Text

   The couples exited the restaurant full and satisfied with smiles on their faces.

  "That was fun but I think we need to go." Ching held Abyo's hand.

  "But why?" He raised a confused eyebrow. "There's nowhere we have to be."

  "Well someone has to explain to your dad what that scream was about." The purple clad maiden gave Garu a quick glance causing him to blush. "So everyone can rest a little easier tonight."

  "Oh yeah." The martial artist smirked. "Bet he'll laugh at this one. Let's go Ching."

  "Bye you two!" She waved at the other couple. "And tell us the next time you put a stunt like that."

   The quiet couple nodded and waved their goodbyes.

  'That was nice.' Pucca hummed to herself. 'A little embarrassing but nice.' The girl gently latched onto her love's arm, a habit she had developed whenever the pair went on a calm walk together. 'Wonder what movie Ching will pick out? Knowing her, it should be a good one.'

   Her musings went on for a few minutes until the other teen abruptly stopped without warning.

  'What's wrong?' She looked up to find Garu's intense gazed honing in on something to his side. Following his eyes Pucca saw what had grabbed his attention so quickly.

   It was a set of shurikens, pretty nice ones too. They appeared to be freshly crafted with a bright shrine of neatly forged metal. Their edges looked so sharp they could cut the width of a human hair in half. Perfect for a ninja to use in battle.

  'Typical Garu.' Giggled Pucca with a grin. 'Always thinking about his equipment. But I have a feeling these are mostly going to be used for target practice since Tobe isn't attacking him anymore.' She inspected the weapons again. 'It's just as well, these look a little too good to lose in a fight just yet.'

  "Like what ya see?" The elderly vendor smiled. "It took me some time to make these and I'm mighty proud to say I-"

  "Here you are!" A voice called out.

   Startled, they all looked at its source, the girl from the other day.

  "I can't believe you, Chad!" She stomped right up to Garu and yanked his arm, hard. "Running off with some bimbo like that! We're leaving right now!"

   Clearly not able to process what was going on, Garu jolted back and pulled himself away from both women. In the scramble to get free his legs got tangled up on air causing him to fumble to the ground.

  "What is with you!" The irate lady all but shrieked. "Is it that you're scared that you got caught red handed?" She reached down to pick him when Pucca stood in front of her in a defensive stance. "What are you-"

  "Pucca." The scared boy choked as if he was being strangled.

   As if realizing the mistake she made the stranger backed off which allowed the girlfriend to assess the situation.

   The warrior's eyes were already red with tears and he was practically hyperventilating. If it wasn't for the still ground one would think they were in the middle of an earthquake by his trembling.

  "Garu." Pucca got on her knees next to him. "Can you tell me five things you see? Please."

   He shakely nodded. "You." His terrified orbs stared at her before searching for other things to list. "The grass, flowers, and uh…." Garu glanced up a bit calmer than before. "Clouds…. The sky."

  "Good, can I hold your hand?" She asked softly.

   The young man lifted his hand to her as a wordless yes.

   Taking it as calmly as she could Pucca reminded him. "Don't forget, deep breaths." The maiden smiled. "Feeling any better?"

  "Yeah." Garu's voice was small. "I can't believe that technique actually works, it sounded so stupid when I heard about it."

   The girl chuckled under her breath. "It was our therapist that taught it to us." She tenderly rubbed his clothed hand with her thumb. "And seeing how well it worked I'd say he knows exactly what he's doing. Think you can get up now?"

   He nodded and the maiden helped him to his feet. 

  "Home?" Pucca guessed.

  "Home." Garu confirmed with another nod.

   Walking past the one that caused his panic attack the girlfriend wanted to send her a nasty glare until she saw her face.

   Hands were cupped other the young lady's mouth as guilt and shame shone through her misty eyes.

   Anger left Pucca as she supported part of her boyfriend's weight. 'That girl didn't mean to do this.' Step by step the pair gained more distance from the scene. 'Knowing that probably should make me feel better, but it doesn't.' She sighed careful not to let Garu catch her. 'I might need to talk to her later, after Garu is taken care of.'

   Going into the forest the cool breeze carried a smoothing scent to their noses. It helped their nerves as they went deeper.

   And they met a black cat.

  'Mio?' Pucca furrowed her brows at the feline. 'But what is he- oh right, hunting.' She watched him lightly ram his head into Garu's leg.

   The ninja gave his longtime friend a tired smile.

   Not content with that Mio jumped up to his master's chest.

   Only Garu's reflexes prevented him from falling back to Earth. "Crazy cat." He mumbled fondly scratching the black fur. "I can't recall you ever wanting to be petted this badly."

  "Maybe he can tell you're in a not-so-good mood?" Suggested Pucca as she also went to pet Mio. "Animals can sense things we can't after all."

  "I know." He answered with his attention still on his cat. "I think that's why therapy animals keep coming up in my sessions, though I don't know it'll help."

  "Looks like it is to me." She noted his more relaxed posture. "Your shoulders aren't as tense and it seems like it keeps your mind off the bad stuff."

  "But I already have two cats." Garu responded in a conflicted tone. "What if the animal I get doesn't get along with them? I can't choose it over Mio and Yani, I just can't."

  "I don't think you need to." Pucca giggled as the cat butted his head under Garu's chin. "Mio's doing a great job on his own." She perked at an idea. "You should ask if you could get him trained to be your therapy cat! It has to be possible, right?"

   The boy smiled at the girl's enthusiasm. "I don't see why not."

   Before they knew it the couple had stepped into Garu's small porched and had to say their farewells.

  "I'll pick you up first thing tomorrow." The maiden in red informed him. "I want to make sure you're ok before you have to gather ingredients."

   Sleepily Garu nodded.

   Unable to resist an old impulse Pucca tenderly embraced her beloved.

   He leaned into it.

   A minute later she finally allowed him to go inside and rest.

   On her way back to her home she made an anonymous purchase.

Chapter Text

   The ninja didn't answer the door.

   Pucca knew she shouldn't be panicking but she couldn't help it. Not when she couldn't stop thinking about the possibility of Ring Ring kidnapping Garu again. 'Come on!' She knocked yet again. 'Answer! Please!'

   The maiden didn't wait another minute.

   Pulling out the keys entrusted to her she unlocked the door praying she was just overreacting. The first thing Pucca found made her gasp a breath.

   Yani was sleeping neatly on Garu's chest but Mio?

   That cat was sprawled across the warrior's head covering his eyes like a sort of face mask.

   And it was the funniest thing the girl has seen in a long while.

   Garu got spooked by the sudden laughter in the room. 'What on Earth?' He tried to lift his head only to find a furry mass weighing him down. Quickly reaching a hand to investigate the object he cautiously moved his fingers on the soft material causing it to erupt into a mess of vibrations. 'A cat.' His sleepy but alert mind pieced together. 'They wouldn't be purring like this if there was a threat.' The teen lowered his arm only for it to land on another furball. "Who is it?"

  "Mio." The giggly voice of Pucca sounded in his ears. "Unless you're asking about the one on your chest then it's Yani."

  "No." He tried to hide his smirk. "I was talking about the girl who broke into my house."

  "I did not!" She said in a playfully defensive tone. "You gave me a key so I could let myself in, remember? And besides, you weren't coming to the door."

  "Hm." Gently lifting up Mio so he could sit up and causing Yani to shift in his lap, Garu replied. "Well I apparently have a pretty effective sleep mask."

  "A little too effective." Pucca held her hands behind her back. "I really was worried though, I thought that she…. Nevermind."

   Understanding what she meant the ninja stood up and walked over to her. "Pucca." He tenderly held the maiden in his loving embrace. "Please don't cut yourself off when something is bothering. Even if it's not me, find someone to talk to about it."

  "Alright." Despite wanting to stay she pulled back. "We should hurry up, my uncles can't wait forever."

   He nodded and went to get ready.

   It didn't take them long to find what the chefs wanted on that particular day.

  'What do I do now?' Garu wandered around the village after saying goodbye to Pucca at the Goh-Rong. 'I could always go meditate or train… but I always do that when she's at work….' He huffed as he got deep into thought. 'Maybe I should see what Abyo is up to? We haven't spent time together without the girls in a while.' The teen smiled. 'Yeah, that's what I'll do.'

   And just like always he found the loudmouth outside his home within minutes.

  "Hi Garu!" Abyo kicked the training dummy. "What's up?"

   Simply answering with a shrug he watched his friend practice.

  "Oh, Pucca's at work so you came here. Well if we're going to hang out…." The martial artist turned to his friend in a fighting stance. "Wanna spar?"

   Garu smirked at the challenge and got into a stance of his own. 'Only if you want to lose.'

  "Hold it son, over." Officer Bruce walked by the house. "There is a protest going at the Dong King that looks like it could get violent and I might need your help, over."

  "Come on! Again!" He stomped the ground in frustration. "I don't get why they stay, their business has been dead for over two months!"

  'Because Ring Ring won't let them leave.' Without realizing it the hurt warrior hugged himself. 'And it's only dead because she….' He didn't want to finish that thought.

  "Sorry Garu I have to go." Abyo looked at the other boy with an apologetic smile. "Maybe we can- Garu, what's- oh." He stepped next to him and put a hand on his shoulder. "Garu."

   With a startled flinch Garu jerked up to relax at seeing the familiar face. 'I got my own head again, didn't I?' The ninja let out a tired sigh. 'Need to stop doing that.'

  "Hey, don't get down on yourself dude." The talkative young man said calmly. "Ching told me what Pucca told her happened after we left the Goh-Rong yesterday. I'm honestly surprised you are out here, I know I'd probably still be in bed!"

   He chuckled at the likely truth in those words.

   Abyo brightened up. "See? It's not so hard to laugh a bit, is it? But seriously I gotta go." The martial artist didn't run far before waving back. "I'll try to be early tonight, I don't want you sitting that schmuck alone!"

   Garu laughed again as he waved back. 'You hate it much more than I do.' He watched the family drive off in the patrol car. 'Guess we'll have to meet up another time, when people aren't threatening to riot.' His mind went somber at the reasoning of the duo's call to action. 'I hope they don't get hurt, it would be all my- no.'  The quiet warrior shook his head. 'No it wouldn't. Think about what the therapist said. It's not fair for me to blame myself for other people's actions and I'm only accountable for my own actions.'

   The chirping of birds drew his attention.

  'What Ring Ring did was her mistake, not mine. She is the one that turned the people against her, not me.' Taking a deep breath the thoughts kept rolling. 'But I still have to make efforts on this long road to recovery, that is my responsibility to myself and no one else's.' His face grew determined. 'I don't want to be her victim for the rest of my life or settle with being a survivor, I want to thrive! I just-' Garu inhaled sharply and exhaled slowly. 'Need help…. And there is nothing wrong with that.'

   Warmth spread in his heart knowing how people that are willing to aid him on this journey.

Chapter Text

   Three of the four friends conversed in the dinning area of the restaurant while one was in the kitchen making popcorn.

  "You girls gotta get better at cooking." Abyo teased. "Hate to think Garu's the only person in this group that made something actually edible."

  "I can make popcorn, unlike you." Ching shot back playfully. "Garu just does a better job."

  "Uh-huh." The martial artist smirked. "But can you cook anything else?"

  "Well I remember that you really liked that chocolate I made for you that one Valentine's day Master so forced you guys go on dates with us." She gave him a sly glance. "But I don't seem to recall you ever fixing food that I liked."

   He nervously sputtered. "Uh! I-I, um…."

  "Relax Abyo, I was just joking." The girl winked. "Mostly."

   Pucca giggled at the pouting teen. 'Looks like Garu really does beat all of us in the culinary department, of course he does have to fend for himself most of the time so he gets plenty of practice.' She felt a little twinge of shame. 'Then again I don't really have an excuse, not with my uncles being world class chefs.' The young lady leaned on the table. 'Do I need to take lessons? Will it work?'

  "Pucca." A concerned Ching noticed her friend deep in thought. "Are you ok?"

  "Hm? Oh!" Sitting up she nodded. 'I should probably forget the whole cooking thing for now, there's a movie to watch!'

   Just on queque Garu stepped in with two large bowls of popcorn. He maneuvered one around Abyo grabbing hands and set in front of Ching before taking a seat next to his girlfriend. Like a true gentleman the ninja placed the dish slightly closer to Pucca so her short arms could reach it better.

  "Alright!" The purple maiden got up with a disk in her possession. "You guys ready to watch The Naughty Girl Next Door?"

  "Um…. Ching?" An apprehensive Pucca briefly pressed her lips. "Are you that we should be watching this? It shoulds a little…. Raunchy."

  "Don't worry Pucca, the girls at the store said it was great." Ching reassured her. "We can turn it off if it gets bad."

  'It's not me who I am concerned about.' She saw her boyfriend shift anxiously.

   The flick startled innocently enough with a shy nerd trying to get the attention of his attractive next door neighbor. He was awkward but also very sweet but the girl on the other hand, she was…. Nasty. She put him down at every turn but the lead didn't seem to care. What made things worse is that the neighbor chased after much older, richer men and dumped them as soon she didn't get her way.

  'People actually like this?' Pucca sneered at a cringy joke at the poor boy's expense. 'It's awful!'

   For a time things got…. Better? Suddenly she was nicer to kind young men and even went on a date with him.

  'That doesn't seem like good writing to me.' The unsure maiden scrutinized. 'Her character changed too fast, it had no arc.'

   Everything was going fine but the couple walked out of the fast food place, things took a turn. The girl shoved the boy into the alley and practically forced herself on him.

  Pucca got furious at the all too familiar situation. 'I've had it I'm-'

   Siliently Garu got to his feet next to her and rushed upstairs.

  "Oh no." Recognizing why he left, Ching moved away from a sleeping Abyo and immediately shut off the film. "Pucca, I'm-"

   "Don't." She was already at the kitchen doorway. "It's not your fault."

   That didn't help her best friend feel any better.

   Her room was still dark when she calmly stepped through the entrance. Looking caring in the dark chambers the girl could make out a large silhouette on her bed. Pucca quickly flipped on the light.

   Garu had one leg tucked into his chest while the other dangled limpy off the mattress. The ninja's reds were red and a little misty but so far his cheeks were dry.

   Ever so carefully Pucca sat down next to him. "Hey, how are you holding up?"

   He merely shrugged as he continued to stare at the wooden flood.

  "The popcorn was great." She gently rubbed his back. "Not too salty and just enough butter, you'd put any theater to sha-"

  "Sorry…." A harsh whisper spilled out.

   Pucca was only silent for a second as she planned what words to say next. "You don't need to apologize over this."

  "But I ruined movie night." The boy sniffed softly.

  "You didn't." Her fingers drew circles on the black fabric. "That movie did, I was about to turn it off before you left."

   Glancing at her Garu asked with a trace of a quiver in his voice. "It wasn't just me?"

  "No, that sorry excuse for cinema was kinda disgusting." She counted the ghost of a smile in her love's face as a win. "Those girls Ching talked to need to rethink their idea of romance. The way that character acted was-"

  "Just like Ring Ring." He cut her off. "She didn't bully me like that when we were younger but she sure lashed out at you a lot. I-it was that last scene that-" Garu tried unsuccessfully to swallow the lump at his throat. "I felt… dirty. Like I did when she would say those things or when she…."

   A sob choked out.

   Without a sound Pucca gently guided him into a hug as he let loose a torrent of tears.

   His hold was tight and desperate like someone clinging to a piece of driftwood in the middle of a raging sea, if the small lady was anyone else she'd have bruises in the morning. Wails echoed like the haunting hollows of bellowing wind. Garu's shoulders shook with the trees unfortunate to be trapped in it.

   His loving girlfriend did her best to smooth him as she patiently waited for the eye of the storm.

   The calm creeped in as the rain of tears dissipated.

  "You have a session tomorrow right?" Pucca whispered barely loud enough for herself to hear.

  "Early in the afternoon." Garu mumbled not moving a muscle. All the ninja's energy was gone.

   She nodded. "Good." The girl stroked his hair. "Now let's get you to bed, don't want to miss the appointment."

   He was already asleep, safe in her tender embrace.

Chapter Text

   Dawn the next day was quiet and peaceful with zero sign of the maelstrom that blew in the night prior. It was this morning a young woman watched her beloved sleep as her mind wandered.

  'I don't want to wake him up.' She really didn't, not when he was safe from the world that hurt him so. Perhaps if she could keep him here, forever? ….No, no she couldn't. That is what the one she hated so wanted, to keep him trapped in an ivory tower and gilded cage. Where madness would claim his mind and the light would leave his soul. The young man wouldn't be himself then. No, her love needed freedom, freedom to act, that's what he lived for, that's part of why she loved him. But, she still couldn't make a move to rouse him.

   But it appeared she didn't have to.

   The large, deep dark eyes slowly opened for only her to see. A haze of sleep remained but his slumber had ended. "Are you an angel?"

   Pucca couldn't stop her snort as she started to giggle. "What?"

  "Hm?" Lazily Garu sat up next to her with a confused face shifting to one of realization. "Oh, mornin' Pucca."

  "Good morning Garu." The girl loved moments like these when her boyfriend didn't have to act mature beyond his years and showed his true age. "Sleep well?"

  "Mm-hm." He rested his head on hers.

  "Garu, we got to get up." A smile planted itself on the maiden's lips. "The ingredients won't deliver themselves."

  "Mm…. Fine." With a quick stretch the already fully dressed ninja slid out of bed.

   His girlfriend only needed to slip on her shoes and they headed downstairs.

  "Ah good morning you two." Dumpling gave them a friendly smile as he chopped the vegetables. "Did you get a good sleep?"

   A perky Pucca nodded happily while Garu rubbed his eyes like a small child.

   Pleased, the uncle nodded back. "Garu, why don't you go ahead and find a seat at a table, we'll have breakfast fixed up in a jiffy."

   The couple started towards the other room.

  "Uh, hold on Pucca." He called out hesitantly. "I need to talk to you for a second."

   After giving the ninja a quick peck on the cheek and stepped over to him.

  "Ho and Linguini will be down soon." Dumpling began carefully. "But I'd rather speak about this one on one so you don't get overwhelmed, ok?"

   His niece nodded with a serious expression.

   The man moved the sliced ingredients to the slide. "Ching told us what happened last night, is he doing alright?"

  "I think so." She answered a bit unsure. "It takes him a little while to get going when he has an episode and it didn't seem like his brain was on the same page as reality when he woke up."

  "Oh my." The concerned uncle stroked his bread out of a nervous habit. "What did he do?"

  "Asked if I was an angel." Pucca giggled again at the sleep induced question.

  "O-oh." Dumpling chuckled in relief. "Had me worried there for a moment. You can go sit down with Garu now, that's all I wanted to ask you."

   She gladdy nodded and went to join her boyfriend.

   The noodles the family ate were delicious as always. Afterwards the ninja was soon off to gather supplies and back just as quickly. But much to the maiden's disappointment he was out once more while she chose to stay and work.

  "Pucca, can you get that table over there?" Dada stumbled as the tower of bowls he was carrying wobbled. "My hands are a little full."

  "Huh-uh!" Darting quickly she went to take an order only to find a new familiar face. Pucca put on her friendliest smile to greet the maroon ninja.

   She was focusing solely on the table when the waitress cleared her throat. "Wha- oh! Sorry about that!" The embarrassed girl laughed. "I need to know if you've seen-" Her eyes widened in surprise. "You! Ah- um, yea, I was actually looking for you." With a sigh the lady explained. "I really felt bad about the other day and wanted to apologize to you two. That guy you were with just looked so much like my boyfriend, I know it sounds-"

  "Crazy? Don't worry, I've seen Chad." Scratching the back of her neck the maiden went on. "Garu and I were in the crowd when you guys stepped off the boat, honestly I can understand why you mistaken the two."

  "Ga-ru?" The strange tested the word out. "Is that his name?"

  "Yes." She nodded slowly. "And I'm Pucca."

  "It's nice to meet you Pucca." Her voice sounded relieved. "My name is Jing Jing." Jing Jing rubbed her arm anxiously. "Can you tell me where Garu is? I need to say I'm sorry to him too."

  "Oh." Pucca bit her lip slightly. "He's at an…. Appointment right now."

  "Is it because of what I did?" The girl in maroon got concerned. "I did mean to-"

  "I know, the look in your eyes said as much when we were walking by. He just…." Pucca sighed softly. "Doesn't do well with strange women touching him."

  "Oh." Jing Jing couldn't stop herself from asking. "Was he always like this?"

  "No." The other girl shook her head. "I don't think I should be telling you this but late this summer a… stalker decided she wanted… personal time that he wasn't ok with and he couldn't fight back. And being grabbed like that reminds him of her."

   "I'm so, so sorry!" She sounded genuinely devastated. "I never meant to-"

  "Of course you didn't." Calmly Pucca sat next to her. "Just…. Don't make it a big deal when you apologize, ok? Movie night didn't go so well yesterday and he needs time to get his mind off of it."

  "Yeah, I can do that." Jing Jing rested a hand on Pucca's. "And don't worry about sharing his story with me, I wouldn't tell a soul." She drew it back. "Guess it's time for me to order something now, huh?"

   Giggling, the waitress in red nodded as she took out a notepad and pen.

   That day she made an unlikely friend.

Chapter Text

    Mid afternoon a chilling wind swept through the village reminding everyone what season it was.

  'Looks like winter's coming early this year. I'll need to dig out my scarf sooner than I thought.' Garu shivered with a smile. 'It makes me want to go snowboarding.' He walked up to the restaurant. 'Maybe I can talk Pucca into going on my birthday?' Stepping inside his keen gaze scanned over the customers. 'There- why is she sitting next to Her?'

   As if feeling her boyfriend's eyes on her, Pucca turned to him and smiled gently. She happily signed the ninja to come over.

  'Alright Garu, you can trust her.' The nervous boy breathed to calm himself. 'She wouldn't let that girl near you unless she meant no harm.' He walked over quickly and sat on the chair on the other side of his love, but not before scooting a tad bit closer.

  "Jing Jing wants to say something to you." She explained holding his hand. "Is that ok?"

   He nodded carefully.

   Pucca gave the maroon stanger the go ahead with a thumbs up.

  "I'm terribly sorry for pulling on you like that." Jing Jing fiddled with her fingers anxiously. "Can you please forgive me?"

   The surprised warrior binked. 'Oh.' Garu gave her a timid smile with nod. 'Good to know we don't have another Ring Ring on our hands.'

  "Thank you so much." Her shoulders relaxed. "This is so weird. You and my boyfriend look just a little but act completely different." Laughing a little she added. "He'd be lording this over my head for weeks and here you are letting it go in a heartbeat. It's like night and day."

   Garu was about to open his mouth to respond when the gruff voice from the peer called out.

  "There ya are babe!" A cocky Chad strutted over to the table. "I've been lookin' for ya everywhere. There is a big party goin' down at the Dong King joint and I want ya to come." He smirked at the maiden in red. "Your new friend can join us, the more the merrier."

  "No thank you." An annoyed Pucca tried to remain as civil as possible. "I'd rather hang out with my boyfriend if you don't mind."

  "Well that's your loss." Chad dismissed with a careless shrug. "Let's go doll."

  "Bye Pucca! Bye Garu!" Jing Jing waved farewell as the two men glared at each. "Let's talk again sometime!"

   Just like that they left.

  "Well that was something." The girl quickly set her focus on the boy next to her. "So how did your session go."

  "Uh, good." Shaking his disdain of the other male he turned back to his girlfriend. "Though I found out we were wrong about trying to make Mio a therapy animal."

   A confused Pucca furrowed her brow. "But I thought cats could be therapy animals."

  "They can but their job is to go around from place to place to get people in like, say hospitals for example, something to get their mind off the stress, not to live with them." Garu laid his arms on the table as he leaned over. "That's a service dog's job."

  "It's not to lead the blind?" She asked him quietly. "Or are they different kinds of jobs?"

  "Yes, and a lot apparently." The teen chucked at her perplexed expression. "If I were to one myself their job would be to help with stuff like stress and anxiety."

  "Mio and Yani seem to be really good at that." His girlfriend scooted her chair closer this time to where their shoulders almost touched. "Then why can't they be service cats."

  "I don't know honestly." He admitted with a sigh. "The therapist told me that there are very few exceptions to the whole service dog thing… but I could have them registered as emotional support animals."

   Pucca nodded slowly. "So I take it that they do exactly what the name implies."

  "Yes." Garu smiled softly at her. "And they'll be able to go with me almost anywhere, though I think I'll only do that on my bad days, if I don't stay home that is." Changing the subject quickly he inquired. "Do you have any ideas on what we should do on my birthday?"

  "No…." The girl looked a little down. "I haven't, sorry."

  "That's alright." The warrior leaned in and gently kissed her forehead. "I wanted to know so we can make sure everything is the right size."

  "What do you mean?" She gave him a dubious glance. "What are you planning Garu?"

  "Snowboarding, well, in your case skiing." He answered not realizing her mind was going to other places. "I'm worried that we may have outgrown our winter gear and I don't want until then to wait to find out. So are you in?"

  "Sure!" A chuckling Pucca sounded relieved. "I'll have my stuff set out and ready to go on the ninth."

  "Ninth?" Parroted Garu in conclusion. "My birthday is the eleventh, wouldn't it make more sense to get everything you need by the ninth and set it out on the tenth?"

  "Oh I forgot to tell you!" Laying a hand over her mouth she explained. "I have an appointment on the tenth! I'm so sorry!"

  "Don't worry about it." He tucked her into a sideways hug. "It's not like it's on the eleventh anyway, besides Tobe wanted to meet up and train soon. We both know that will probably be an all day thing."

  "That's too true." The maiden giggled. "So which side of the mountain are we going on?"

  "I have not decided yet." Her boyfriend confessed. "I'll have to keep up to date on the weather to see what will be the best one and just to be sure I'll scope out the area."

   His girlfriend only nodded along as she thought about how much fun their tip was going to be.

   Both went to bed that night with dreams of powder.

Chapter Text

   Unfortunately for the teenage boy his plague of growth spurts had resulted in the third year in a row he had to get new winter clothes. With the girl also needing new boots the pair decided, she insisted, to go out together on the eighth to avoid any last minute panic.

  'I hate this.' Garu stared at the somewhat sizable collection of men's winter clothing. 'It always makes me feel picky….'

   Holding out a white coat Pucca walked up with a wide grin.

  'No.' He shook his head. 'It's perfect for stealth but if an avalanche came down on top of us or I got lost it would be almost impossible to spot me…. And I'll probably get it stained….'

  "Oh…." She put it back slightly disappointed. "Ah!" The smiling maiden pulled out a very bright red jacket this time.

  'It hurts my eyes.' The ninja squinted as the reflected light hit his face.

  "Hm…." Pucca set the thing back and continued her search.

  "Oh hey!" A voice called from across the store. "It is you two!"

   One could practically hear the pop in their necks with how fast they turned.

   Ching ran up with a startled Won clinging to her hair. "What brings you here?"

   Her best friend gestured at the racks of clothing with an over dramatic sigh.

  "Oh, you're getting everything ready for your date." She raised a brow. "How did you get Garu to go with you? Abyo never goes shopping with me!" The young lady ended in a growl.

   A surprised Garu's eyes widened in alarm. 'I need to be really, really careful today.'

   Pucca softly smiled and laid a hand on the other girl's shoulder.

  "Sorry." She let go with a huff. "It's just- dating Abyo is wonderful but we always do what he wants and hardly ever what I want." Her voice got low again. "And it's getting on my last nerve!"

   The warrior turned his attention to a random rack not daring to make eye contact.

   His girlfriend looked back at him which led Ching to do the same.

   In a split second all her disdain was seeming forgotten as she stood besides Garu. "You outgrew your coat again didn't you?" Giggling she turned to him. "It's weird to think that you'd get so tall. When we were little kids you were only a bit taller than Pucca, now I bet you'll be around the same height as Linguini by the next summer!"

   Blushing furiously Garu felt very selfconicous as he ducked his head. He could hear his girlfriend chuckling under her breath. 'She may not be wrong, I'm already taller than Ho….'

  "It's driving Abyo crazy. He always believed he'd the tallest out of the two of you." Ching mused as she drowsed through the winter gear. "Though he does drag about his musles being bigger but I think he's growing out rather than up. It's only a matter of time until you do the sa- oh!"

  'Oh that looks nice.' The curious teen eyed the outfit his friend was holding. 'It looks like a slightly blue version of my old one.'

  "I knew you'd like it." She handed it over to Garu. "Go try it on to make sure it fits."

   His time in the changing room was brief. Upon seeing it was indeed the correct size they went to the footwear section after he got it back on the hanger.

  'Why are there so many shoes?' A concerned Garu stared at the wide assortment of shoes. 'Do girls really need all of these?'

  "Pucca, look at this pair!" Ching excitedly showed her a pair of high heels. "They would cercently make it easier to kiss Garu, wouldn't they?"

  'Or break her ankle.' His lack of knowledge in fashion only added to the boy's scrutiny. 'How does anyone wear those?'

   It was clear his girlfriend didn't share his skepticism when she nodded enthusiastically.

  'That's it! Girls are both weird and crazy!' A lopsided grin played on his face. 'And I fell in love with the weirdest, craziest, loveliest one out there.'

  "They look like they're even your size!" The swords girl set them in Pucca's hands. "Put them on!"

   So she did, and began to walk in the classy footwear with all the grace of a newborn fawn.

  "Hm…. I think a little more practice is in order before you wear those anywhere Pucca." She watched the determined girl stumble towards the boy in amusement. "We probably should have started with shorter heels."

  "Hrmf!" Shaking off the criticism Pucca shakily marched her way towards her love.

   Then the inevitable happened.

   All of Garu's muscles jerked forward as he rushed to catch his beloved. Only years of training were the reason for success. Lifting her in his arms bridal style he stated in a teasing tone. "You don't need those things to kiss me, Pucca." The surprisingly suave ninja tenderly pecked her cheek.

   Partially because of embarrassment of the fall and excitement of his hot breath in her ear the younger teen flushed as she hid her face.

  "Sorry…." A whisper whimpered out.

   Glancing at his friend he quickly became worry for the normally cheerful girl looked like she was on the verge of tears. "Ching, this was-"

  "This isn't what I was talking about." Ching sadly interrupted him. "It's about movie night."

  "Oh." He tried to swallow away the tightness in his throat. "But that wasn't your fault, how come you have known it was going to be that bad."

   Ching grabbed her upper arm timidly. "I still could have-"

  "No, don't start." Pucca gently but firmly commanded her. "There's nothing we can do about it now." She shifted in Garu's arms to address her better. "I think what we need to do to add a new rule to movie nights."

  "Like what?" The maiden in purple sniffled. "No more romances?"

  'I hope not.' Guilt coiled in Garu's gut. 'I don't like them but I don't want to ruin their fun.'

  "No." Relaxing more into her boyfriend's hold similar to a cat. "We could find some reviews of the movie or even ask someone to watch it and let us know if there's anything…. Questionable."

  "That sounds like a plan to me." Garu smiled proudly at Pucca. "What do you think, Ching?"

   She wordlessly nodded as her own lips turned ever so slightly upwards.

   The couple managed to find everything they were looking for with their close friend by their side.

Chapter Text

  'I'm so bored.' Pucca huffed in annoyance. 'I can't spend time with Ching since she's on a date with Abyo and Garu wants to take the day to prepare himself to train with Tobe tomorrow so that's out of the question.' She smiled softly despite her loneliness.

   In truth the maiden was glad that her beloved warrior wanted to be by himself. There was a worry in the back of her mind that Garu would no longer be the independent ninja they all loved and that he now feared being alone for extended periods of time. Over the past few months Pucca couldn't think of a whole day that they were apart after her boyfriend was rescued from the heiress's clutches. She didn't know if it was because of the fact they were in a new relationship or one of them was afraid of Ring Ring showing up out of the blue.

  'I wish I could come along and spar with them.' The autumn air blew in her face carrying with it the scent of the season. 'Bet he'll kick all their butts.'

   Sparring was something she never really thought that she'd enjoy but the girl found herself having fun whenever Garu asked her on their "sparring dates." It was funny, in a way, that he always held back when they went at it. Of course she did too, the teen could count the number she went all out on one hand. But the boy knew how strong she was and his techniques were highly unlikely to hurt her at all, but he still did it anyway.

  'Did he like me when we kids?' Pucca wondered out loud in her head. 'Maybe if I didn't chase him so much back then he would have fallen for me sooner. Oh well, can't change anything about it now.' A wide grin spread across her face like wildfire. 'Not that I would, he's far too cute when he's flustered.'

   A deep voice spoke out. "Hey babydoll, thinking about me?"

   The spooked girl jumped and looked to see who had startled her. 'Oh great.' She pressed her lips together to keep to the rude words from slipping out. 'You.'

  "I got ya, didn't I?" Chad's smug smirk was very tempting to Pucca's clenched fist. "So what's a pretty, little thing like you doing all alone?"

   An irritated Pucca did her best to ignore him as she sat on the nearest bench to gather herself.

  "Did your lame boyfriend abandon ya?" He wore a mask of false empathy. "Do you need me to make it all better?"

  "No!" Her bark was fierce but still nothing compared to her bite. "He didn't."

  "Aw, don't be in denial baby." Chad took a seat a little too close for comfort. "Ya can always cry on my shoulder."

  "I'm not in denial, my boyfriend is training right now, and unlike you, I let people have their space." She scooted away sending him a harsh glare.

  "Aw, don't be that way sweetheart." The young man was undeterred as he moved towards her. "Perhaps a quick smooch will change your tune?"

   In one fluid movement Pucca shoved him to the cold, hard ground. Admittedly she felt a twinge of satisfaction upon hearing his pained groan.

  "Oh my, what happened!" Jing Jing ran up to the other in a hurry. "Are you alright Chad?"

  "Yeah babe." He grinned widely at his concerned girlfriend. "This crazy chick just gave me a small push is all."

  "You mean Pucca?" She glanced at her new friend perplexed by the hurtful action taken by someone who had only done kind things around her. "Why did you do this?"

  "He was invading my personal space." Not knowing if Jing Jing would believe her side of the story over her boyfriend's, she left out part about the flirting. "And he wouldn't take the hint."

  "Oh." Looking down at Chad with her hands on her hips Jing Jing spoke in a low tone. "Is this true?"

  "Maybe a little." The teen got up and walked around to massage her shoulders. "It's not that big a deal babe. Let's just forget about it."

  "No." His girlfriend told him sternly. "I think you should leave before you bother her anymore than you already have."

  "Fine." He flung up his hands defensively. "I'll go where I'm actually wanted!"

   The girls watched him rant how under appreciated he was as he left.

   With him gone Jing Jing sighed as she took the place Chad had been moments prior. "Guess I don't have to worry about you stealing my boyfriend." The girl in maroon joked flatly.

  "You got that right." Pucca realized how sharp her voice was. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude."

  "Don't worry about it." She laughed a bit. "My friends back home can't stand him either. But I always thought it was because they were acting like overprotective brothers. Why do you not like him?"

  "I think him insufferable." It was her turn to sigh. "Also he reminds me of someone... awful."

  "Who?" Her curiosity most likely outweighed reason. "Should I know about them?"

  "I really don't like to talk about it…." A somber Pucca stared at her feet.

   Jing Jing hesitated before putting a hand on her back. "Did he…. Hurt you?"

  "She." The young lady corrected. "And it's not me she hurt."

  "Garu." Jing Jing put two and two together. "She's the reason he had that attack, isn't she?" In a pleading tone she requested. "Can you please tell me she's gone."

  "No she isn't." Pucca said sadly. "And a lot of the villagers are upset about too." The women pointed at the restaurant just barely in view with an angry crowd of people in front of it. "She lives there."

  "Wait…. I think I met her…." The shock in Jing Jing's voice could have been felt by anyone who listened to it. "Is her name Ring Ring?"

   The other lady only nodded.

  "Did they…. Did they do that to her?" She was referring to the heiress's numerous injuries.

  "I did." Confessed Pucca without an inkling of remorse as she looked Jing Jing in the eye. "When I caught her in the act and I wouldn't hesitate to do it again in a heartbeat."

   The kunoichi swore herself to never mess with anyone that the person besides her loved.

Chapter Text

   Come the next dawn the ninja woke up early to finish his work for the day. He only greeted everyone with a wave before returning to his humble abode.

   Garu stared at weapons he had laid out before him. 'I'll have to get these sold for scrap soon so they can be replaced.' He picked one up to inspect the dull and dented edges that were too far gone to repair. 'I know Tobe and I are on better terms now but what if someone else attacks me? These aren't going to cut it, literally.' The teen hummed in discontent. 'If I didn't have that attack the other day then maybe I could have haggled with that blacksmith.' A sigh rushed out of his mouth. 'No use in crying about it now.' He sorted and packed everything up only taking the equipment he deemed good enough to use.

   The only sound heard as the warrior left was the jingling of keys.

  'This place is the same as ever.' He observed glancing over the tree holding the other shinobis' residents. 'Wonder how they built those.' Pushing that thought aside Garu looked down to the group of young men train and cleared his throat.

   Tobe turned from the old training dummy he was practicing on. "Ah Garu! I see you decided to show up after all." The navy ninja pointed his blade at the other. "Ready to be beaten by me?"

   Garu rolled his eyes as he suppressed a smirk. 'Let's see how far you get without dishonest tactics.' He readied out his own sword. 'Hope you haven't been slacking off while I've been recovering 'cause I'm ready now!'

   They collided with a loud ching.

   Minutes into the sparring some terribly noticeable revealed itself to Garu.

  'He's going easy on me.' He blocked a sloppy swing that was well below his rival's level. The effortlessness of the mock battle was making him frustrated. 'He's had over a month to train when I was out of commission, we should be more evenly matched.' Tired of the rather pointless exercise, Garu ended the session by sweeping Tobe's legs out from under him.

  "Oof!" The other men landed on his rear. "Guess you got the best of-"

  "You aren't taking this seriously, why?" Garu was blunt and straight to the point.

   Silenced by the accusation Tobe chose to not answer but instead stared at an interesting patch of grass.

   He huffed in exasperation. "Is this because of the incident? Tobe, it wasn't your-"

  "Don't say that." His voice was quiet and on the cusp of being broken. "I know you don't blame me for what happened… but I do." Tobe's eyes didn't move from their chosen spot. "I told you I thought I couldn't fight you anymore." He let out a hollow laugh. "I guess this just proves it."

   The younger teen sheathed his weapon as he checked on the navy ninja's lackeys' reaction to their leader's concession.

   They either were hanging their heads or glancing at each other with shamed expressions. Every single one seemed to share in his guilt.

  'Of course they would feel the same way. They're the ones who hurt Pucca, giving him the opening he needed for the shot.' Garu put his focus back on Tobe. "I think we should start over."

  "W-what?" The other teen looked at him like he had just grown a second head. "And go back to the way we were! Why would we do that?"

  "What I meant was, let's try to put this past behind us." Reaching out a hand the heart clad ninja spoke. "We don't have to be friends, but I want to try. We all can rebuild some of what we lost together."

  "Never thought I'd hear that from you after all the grief I put you through." Tobe let himself be pulled up by his former enemy. "You really want to do this?"

   He nodded with a smile.

   That's how he spent the day helping them gather their supper.

  "I understand how you defeated Dong King now." Tobe laid back on a log as the fire roared on in the night air. "That was the best meal I'd ever had. The chief taught you well."

  "They… didn't… really… teach… me…." An embarrassed Garu quickly became flustered by the sincere compliment. "I just watched them over the years, nothing special."

  "And yet somehow you became a cook on a high enough level to rival them." He gazed at the clear, star filled sky. "So, what's the secret?"

   The other boy chuckled nervously. "I'm not really sure."

  "Oh come on." Tobe protested lazily. "You have to know."

  "Um… well." Garu scratched the back of his head. "Well I think it's love like they've been saying but I also think it's more that." He started to choose his words very carefully. "Love is… the main force behind it but you need… something, to support it, it can't just be blind. It's like any martial artist, it requires discipline."

  His rival chuckled. "That explains why Pucca can't cook. She has all the power and, uh, love in the world but she only focused on one thing back then."

  "Yeah." He smiled softly thinking of his stubborn girlfriend. "Pucca's getting better, at being disciplined I mean, I haven't dared ate anything she's made. This whole Ring Ring thing has made her a lot more patient than what she used to be. I'm honestly worried about it."

  "Hmm…." Rubbing his chin Tobe questioned. "Why?"

  "It's just-" Garu sighed tirely. "She's always comforting me when I'm having… a bad time and listening to all my troubles. I think it's made her grow up too quickly."

  "I believe it's done the same to you, but that could also be the fact you had to look after yourself for so long." The older teen stared at the fire. "That, and all the other stuff you've been through. Sometimes I don't think I grew up fast enough, if I had then maybe this wouldn't have happened. What do you think?" Tobe looked back to find Garu fast asleep.

   That night the elder ninja carried the younger to one of the spare beds. He only glanced back once and felt something he never had before.

Chapter Text

   The crashing of falling trees and the pained shouts of men awaken the slumbering teen.

  'What on Earth?' A startled Garu shot up in the hammock and carefully looked around from where he was sitting. 'This isn't my house.' He glanced at a mess of dirty ninja uniforms on the form. 'Oh, I must have fallen asleep, but… how did I get here?'

   Another distressed shriek got his mind back on focus.

  'They're under attack!' The teen rushed to get out of bed but got his foot caught. Garu struggled to free himself but somehow managed to get even more entrapped by the thick cloth.

   Meanwhile the unseen terror was still reeking havoc outside and sounded like it was coming closer.

  'This can't be happening.' Garu valiantly fought against his restraints. He couldn't just do nothing, he had to help them! Now with his whole body ensnared in the hammock the desperate ninja was helpless as the others had to face the threat alone. 'Maybe if I-'

  "Garu?" A stunned, breathless voice whispered.

   His gazed travel up and onto the maiden before him. "Uh…."

  "I told you I didn't do anything to him." A bruised and battered Tobe weezed from Pucca's hold. "My ribs hurt…."

   The girl said nothing as she pulled him up by the collar so she could set him on his feet.

   He wobbled a bit before staring at his former enemy. "Ok, he did that to himself." Tobe snickered before he winced in pain. "I didn't think you were that clumsy."

  'Well I thought we were in danger!' Garu pouted at him then glanced to a giggling Pucca. 'Traitor.'

   She only stopped to give him an amused smile and did not so much as lift a finger to aid him.

  'That does it!' Garu twiggled in anger only making them laugh harder. 'You brought this upon yourself Pucca!' Taking a deep breath the warrior closed his eyes to ready himself. 'It's time to unleash my secret weapon!' He revealed the largest, most pitifully puppy dog eyes he could muster along with a quivering lower lip.

   Pucca gasped at the adorable and sad sight. The maiden was truly helpless to stop herself from freeing him.

   All while the navy ninja rolled his eyes at one of the most powerful beings in the island being easily manipulated by her boyfriend's begging.

   Newly liberated, Garu looked at the damage done on the other man by his girlfriend's rampage.

   Tobe had the beginnings of a nasty black eye. One could hear his difficulty breathing from across the room.

  "Are you going to be alright?" He asked in a worried tone.

  "Yeah, I'm-" His knees buckled.

   Quickly the young shinobi rushed to catch the older. Draping Tobe's arm over his shoulders he sat him down on the bed he was just trapped in. Kneeing in front of him the boy questioned. "Tobe, can you hear me?"

  "Huh? Oh-uh yeah." He answered lamely as he tried to blink the blurriness for his vision. "She just hit me a little too hard is all."

  "'A little too hard' for Pucca could mean broken bones." Garu didn't miss her guilty expression from the corner of his eye. "How bad is it?"

  "It feels like my chest is on fire." He admitted with a whine as he hugged himself.

   The heart clad ninja nodded and quietly asked Pucca. "Did you hurt the others this badly?"

   She shook her head.

   He didn't have a chance to respond as Tobe barked a cough in his hand.

   Caughting it before he could wipe off the warrior inspecting it carefully. 'No blood, thank goodness,.' Garu sighed and turned back to the concerned maiden. "Take him to the hospital, I didn't think there's anything broken but we can't be too certain. Meet me at my house after you drop him off."

   Pucca picked up her victim gently then inquired. "What about you?"

  "I'll go home." The boy smiled softly at her as she stood there in her winter gear. "I still need to get ready after all."

  "Oh." She blushed. "Guess I better hurry up then!"

   Without another word the girl left as her love chuckled.

   Back at his abode the warrior had just finished putting on his own winter gear as a light tapping came for his door.

   Garu didn't glance back as he called out. "Come in."

   His girlfriend slipped in quietly. "Sorry."

   He turned to her in confession. "About what?"

   Pucca stared at her shuffling feet. "You know…. Attacking Tobe and his gang."

  "Oh that!" Garu chuckled. "I don't think I can really fault you for that. The last time Tobe and I were alone… didn't end so well." The boy took a breath as he pushed the thought aside. "By the way, why were you up so early? We agreed you would be here at ten."

  "My uncles basically kicked me out." She said jokingly. "It turns out the private event they were talking about is today and they needed to get everything ready." The girl then added with guilty expression. "Uncle Dumpling told me that I have to bring you back with me by sunset to help clean up…. Sorry."

  "So much for our day off." The Ninja replied flatly as he headed towards the door. "Maybe if we're lucky they'll be leftovers to snack on."

  "With how good their cooking is? Not a chance." The maiden giggled. "But they might make us something for helping."

  "That sounds good." He opened the exit for her. "Think they'll bake cake?"

  "I'm sure they will. Oh! And before I forget!" Pucca grabbed Garu's jacket and gently pulled the warrior to her level to give him a tender kiss. "Happy birthday Garu."

   A blissful smile made its way to his face. 'I think this will be the best one yet.' He silently stepped out after his beloved. 'With you here with me.

   The couple excitedly set out towards the mountain with gear in hand and joy in their hearts. This would be a day to remember

Chapter Text

   Snow softly crunched under the boots of a thrill seeking couple.

   The ninja's eyes scanned for any dangers that could lash out at them as they made their way to the summit. 'Everything is quiet so far. Hopefully it stays that way.'

   Pucca ran ahead with a big toothy grin making Garu pick up his pace.

  'Seems I'm not the only one who was excited for this.' He smirked at the girl's rampant enthusiasm. 'She can barely contain herself.' He sprinted past his girlfriend and began an unofficial race.

   His longer legs were the only reason he won.

   The peak was serine and silent. Trees glistened with the white radiance of millions of tiny crystals. Sound was almost a stranger there if it was not for their footsteps. All around them was fresh, unblemish powder, perfect for play.

   Garu took a breath at the spectacular view before getting his board ready. Glancing to his right he found Pucca looking back at him in skis waiting for his signal. 'Alright.'

   The warrior nodded and they were gliding down the mountain at breakneck speeds.

   The path he chose had very few obstacles in the way of plants, it was the rocks the teen was more worried about. An observate Garu bobbed and weaved with as much grace as he put into his martial arts. He had to squint as the vicious wind whipped in his face. His heart pounded as adrenaline coursed through his vein.

   He felt so alive!

   It didn't last long though as a long fence seen to block the rest of the way down.

   Garu skidded to a stop just inches away from the nearest post. 'What the heck is this?' Quickly unlatching his board the ninja went to investigate.

  "Huh?" Pucca spotted it faster than her boyfriend and slowed at a much more relaxed pace. She stood there in confusion as the young man inspected the blockade.

   The teen became more curious as he read a sign. 'Caution? Why?' Making a rather unwise decision Garu slipped between the large gap between the wooden railing.

   He only went a foot before his stomach leaped in terror.

  'Oh Shoot!' Garu stumbled back and clung to the fence. 'That was too close!' He stared wide eyed at the huge crevasse before him. With a relief chuckle the ninja didn't waste time getting to safety.

  "What was it?" The maiden noticed how shaken he was. "Are you ok?"

  "Yeah." His hand landed over his heart as he tried to calm himself down. "They fenced off the hole."

  "It's about time!" Pucca sternly exclaimed. "Who knows how many people have fallen in it!"

  'Like me that one time.' Gazing back at the wooden structure he stated. "They need to do a better job than this. I don't think it'll stay long with how harsh the weather can be up here."

  "Maybe." Not feeling comfortable with her beloved so close to certain dead Pucca stepped forward and led him away from the massive crack on the Earth. "At least we'll know when to stop on our runs today."

  "Hm." He gave a soft hum in agreement. Garu took the lead back up only for something cold and wet to slam into the back of his neck. Making a high pitched yelp, he brushed off the slush before his shirt got soaked. The boy turned around to send his girlfriend a stern glare.

   Pucca had her hands over her mouth as loud giggles filled the air.

  'Oh, she wants to play it that way!' Without hesitation he knelt down and scooped up a patch of powder to form into a ball. Using his years of training Garu threw his weapon with the accuracy precessional baseball player.

  "Ah!" Seeing what was coming to her, Pucca covered ducked but got nailed in her side. Of course never being one to back down she retaliated with an other snowball.

   A war was on with both sides unable to get an advantage over the other. The young man had top notch aim on his side while the young woman had speed.

   Excited by the battle Pucca fell back on old instincts. The girl grinned as she leaped forward to tackled her boyfriend into hugging.

   Garu knew that look all too well and caught her risks. Unfortunately for the pair her momentum sent them both the soft ground.

  "Oh!" Pucca gave him a smug smile as she looked down on him for above.

  "Hm!" He didn't accept defeat easily though. The ninja pulled her to side and pinned her instead. 'Not so high and mighty now, huh?'

   The surprise of the rather bold action the girl's eyes shot open. Her breathing picked up but only slightly. She said nothing as her mind screamed.

  'Oh wow.' Once again transfixed by the blood red orbs that never failed to amaze he with their beauty. 'Oh, oh wow.' Subconsciously lowering himself Garu's lips met Pucca's into a deep, tender kiss.

   Both didn't move until Pucca pushed Garu back so she could breathe. "Can you-" She panted for air. "Can you get off of me please?"

  "Oh sorry!" Brushing at the awkward situation Garu scrambled to get feet and helped his love to hers. 'I swear those eyes are magic! How else could they be so mesmerizing?' He gazed at her closed eyes with a little disappointment and longing. 'They're just so beautiful….'

  "Garu? What's wrong?" The maiden asked as she picked up on his pining face. "Is it Her again?"

  "Wha- oh! No! I- uh- um…." He looked away. 'Why is it so hard the find words?' Garu grimace in embarrassment. "I ,uh, want to see them…."

  "Oh." Pucca smiled softly. "You don't have to be shy Garu." She reached up and gently guided he to face her. "If you really want to look into my eyes all you have to do is ask." The lady in red opened her eyes to the world once more.

  He slowly cupped her face as all his thoughts focused on her. "I will never understand…." His thumb gently ran across his beloved's cheek. "How anyone could not fall in love with these." Garu leaned in for another brief kiss.

   His girlfriend giggled fondly at him. "I kinda wish that I had showed them to you years ago, I'd might not have had to work so hard to win your heart."

  "I don't know about that." The ninja let a smile appear across his face. "I didn't know much about feelings like these back then. Heck, I'm still learning, but I'm glad to be doing it with you."

   The maiden couldn't respond as he went for a third and far from final kiss.

Chapter Text

   Eventually the day of fun came to an end. While the pair mourned it's loss they would always remember this day fondly. Now on their way back to the restaurant, after a shortstop for the young man to get out of his heavy gear, they dreamed of when they would return to the snowy mountain.

   Garu heard a faint growl along with an embarrassed giggle. 'Next time I'm going to pack a bigger lunch.' Shiver sent his body shaking. 'And maybe some hot chocolate to warm us up.' He rubbed his gloved hands together. 'It sure was cold up here.'

  "Hm…." At seeing her love trying to warm himself, Pucca gently took his arm and leaned into him.

  "Mm." The ninja hummed contentedly. 'She's always so warm…. It feels so nice.' If it wasn't for the face they were walking he would have rested his head on top of hers, but instead Garu simply went with pulling his girlfriend just a little closer.

   This is how they traveled through the peaceful villager and to the quiet restaurant.

   Being the honorable warrior he was, Garu opened the door for the both of them when a rowr met his ears.

  "Surprise!" The small crowd cheered. "Happy birthday Garu!"

  'I? Wha?' He stumbled back blinking in confusion. The teen gazed inside the Goh-Rong to find it decorated with paper letters on a string hanging from the sealing and balloons littering the floor. 'They did all this… for me?' A hot bit of liquid trailed down his cheek as a sniffle slipped out.

   In truth he hadn't had a birthday party since he was little. Sure, people gave him their best wishes and even some presents, but it wasn't the same as celebrating it with those close to you, not that he had many. Thankfully Pucca, whether Garu liked it or not, always made his special day a big deal so he didn't feel completely alone.

  "Awe Garu, don't cry." Ching cooed as she went to lead the couple inside. "C'mon, why don't you sit down so we can go ahead and sing 'happy birthday?' Abyo has been eyeing the cake and we all know how he is with sweets."

  "Hey!" An indignant cry sounded from across the room.

   The boy chuckled softly as he sat down at the center of the table with his girlfriend taking her place by his side.

  "Let me bring out the dang thing first." Linguini playfully snapped.

  "It took us a while to get it just right." Dumpling smiled. "But I'd say we did a good job."

  "Indeed." Ho helped his brother set the large desert down. "Sorry for lying to the two of you. We just needed some time to throw all this together."

  "The three of us figured that after…. You know, Garu deserved something nice." The tattooed chef explained. "Alright everyone! And one! And two! And three!"

   What proceeded was a horrible, off key mash of notes that could curdle milk. Only the two girls were on pitch with guys making up their own version.

   And Garu loved every cringey moment.

  'They really need classes.' The ninja laughed joyfully at the touching display.

   Despite how terrible the mediocre choir wasn't any glass broken by the time they finished.

  "Ok! Now that we're done, time for cake!" Abyo jumped up. "I call the first piece!"

  "That is not how it works and you know it." A slightly annoyed Ching muttered. "It's Garu's birthday, he gets the first slice."

   The martial artist deflated. "Awe…."

   Ignoring the rowdy teen, Dumpling cut and handed the quiet warrior cake filled plate.

  'Oh it looks so good!' Garu stared at the pure white icing that stood out from the dark brown of the chocolate cake. He had to swallow to keep from drooling on the floor.

  "Oo!" Pucca leaned over to get her own look at the cake. The red maiden licked her lips hungrily but backed off.

  'She deserves this just as much as I do. I don't know if I would be here today if it wasn't to her.' Without thinking twice the kind young man put the small platter in his girlfriend's hands. 'This is the least I could do.'

  "Hey! How come Pucca gets- oof!" Adyo doubled over as the pain from Ching's elbow slamming his stomach took over.

  "Because he's being sweet." The swords girl turned back at them with a smile. "Don't mind him."

   The largest uncle snickered. "Well that goes to show you that complaining gets you nothing!" Dumpling gladly gave his favorite ninja another slice. "Be sure to eat this one."

   He merely laughed and ate as the rest of the room was served.

   Once everyone had finished Ho got up from his seat. "I think it's time for Garu to open his presents. I'm afraid if we wait much longer he may be too tired to walk home."

   As if on queue the said warrior yawned loudly.

  "I think you just jinxed it." Linguini joked fondly. "But you're right, I'll be right back."

   Ever true to his word he walked in with a large stack of wrapped boxes and sat the next to the birthday boy.

   Garu smiled in thanks as he started carefully undoing the tap on the presents. The ninja got a whetstone for Ching, some throwing knives from Abyo, and from Pucca. 'Underwear?' Raising a brow he inspected the clothes closely. It wasn't that the gift disappointed him, he actually really needed these, but it was just… strange.

  "Pucca got you those?" Abyo questioned clearly confused. "You'd think she'd get you something better than that!"

   For once his own girlfriend didn't snap at him. She herself was too busy trying to figure out to odd move.

  "Um…. There's more." Pucca said nervously as she quickly handed Garu another present. "This is from me too."

  "Oh." He opened with the same amount of care as the others. As soon as his eyes landed on the contents of the box he turned to his girlfriend with an amused expression. "I should have known you were the one who brought these."

  "You got me." She giggled. "They seemed so perfect for you." Pucca gestured at the shurikens. "I just had to get them."

   Garu smiled gently at her. "Thank you."

  "We'll give ours in the morning." Dumpling rubbed his beard as he glanced out the window. "It's gotten very late." The man's eyes returned to his niece and her boyfriend nodding off. "Seems like Garu is spending the night after all."

   Everyone besides the couple laughed as the two lovebirds fell asleep on each other. It was a bittersweet moment when they woke them up only to put them back to bed upstairs.

Chapter Text

   After the best birthday was the best the ninja had to date he had the pleasure of awaking with his beloved in his arms.

  'This feels so natural.' Garu hugged the sleeping maiden tighter and nuzzled into her hair. 'Why can't we do this every morning?' The warrior let out a soft sigh for he knew the reason.

   Although the chefs trusted him not to do anything dishonorable, thanks in large part to Ring Ring, it was still improper for an unmarried couple to share a bed, let alone a house. True Garu wasn't anywhere near ready to wed, but the thought of waking up next to someone he loved so much was very enticing to say the least.

  'I know Pucca definitely wouldn't say no.' The boy mused to himself with a fond smile. 'But she'll have to wait a few more years first, I just want to enjoy dating and all it's awkward moments for the time being.' He lifted his head just a bit to peek at the natural lightning in the room. 'It's almost time to get up….' A disappointed Garu noted in dismay. 'Well… it was nice while it lasted.'

   As if sensing the warrior's sentiment the universe decided it was at that moment for his beloved to rise from her slumber.

   During her arousal Pucca shifted trying to get into a more comfortable position but paused when she felt a weight around her midsection and a presence against her back. "Hm...." Cautiously the maiden rolled to investigate only to beam at her discovery.

   Garu smiled warmly in response. 'Guess it's time to-!'

   An abrupt kiss interrupted the boy's thoughts.

   The small maiden parted first with a toothy grin.

   Stunned, the ninja remained frozen in a stupor.

   Once he was once again responsive the couple went downstairs.

  'Sometimes I think this is too good to be true.' Pucca watched Garu help her uncles fix breakfast as she set the table. 'If he didn't spend the night I would've swore yesterday was a dream.' Setting the last cup in its place the young lady looked back up. 'Ah, here they come!'

  "Here's the noodles!" Linguini set down the bowls he was carrying with a smile. "Be sure to eat every bite, we want you two to grow big and strong!"

   The young ninja silently placed his share of the load on the table. He then sat next to his girlfriend ready to enjoy his meal.

  "Thanks for setting up the table for us Pucca." Ho said gratefully as he took a seat.

  "And thank you Garu for lending a hand in the kitchen." Sitting down, Dumpling patted the boy's back. "It helps us start the day quicker."

   Red brushed across Garu's face as he nodded 

  "Sorry to change the subject so fast but, I've been meaning to ask since last night." The tattooed chef spoke when picking up his chopsticks "How did your date go?"

   His niece giggled at her boyfriend's now crimson creeks. 'Sometimes I believe they love to fluster him almost as much as I do.' She leaned into the warrior and gave Linguini a happy nod.

   Satisfied with the answer he smiled and began eating with the others following suit.

   Cleaning afterwards didn't take too long with the five of them working together.

   Putting the last dishes Ho said to his. "Now that that's taken care of we can show Garu what we got for his birthday."

  "Oh right!" An embarrassed Linguini scratched the back of his head. "I almost forgot about it."

   "Well let's not keep him waiting." The thick bearded man turned towards the door. "Follow us Garu, your gift is waiting outside."

   The confused young man furrowed his brow but complied anyway with Pucca excitedly walking behind him.

   She was filled with anticipation as her uncles opened the door to reveal large objects covered in a tarp. 'I can't wait to see the look on his face! This is going to be so good!'

  "Pucca brought it to our attention that your growth spurts have caused some… problems for you." Dumpling began. "So we got a little something to make your life a little easier."

  "Honestly I don't know how we didn't notice sooner." Ho looked up at the tall teen. "You've grown like a weed over the past few years."

  "It makes me feel a bit old." Joked Linguini as he grabbed the cloth. "Now get ready, I think you're going to love it." With an audible grunt he flung to tarp to the side. "Ta-da!"

   Garu covered his mouth as he stepped towards the large, brand new tub. He ran his other hand over the wooden rim.

   It may have been simple as can be in design but it was very well made and would likely last many years, just what the ninja wanted.

   Taking his gaze off the first part of the gift the teen found tall wooden panel line objects laying on the grass. "What are-"

  "They're blinds." The hatted man answered. "Hopefully that way prying eyes will no longer seek unwanted peeks while you bathe."

  "Thank you." Sniffed an emotional Garu. "Thank all of you so much. I wish I knew how-"

  "You having more peace of mind is enough for us." Dumpling gently gripped his shoulder. "I can't imagine what it was like taking a bath out in the open is like for you now."

  "I-I don't…." He muttered with a blush. "Not since I went home after my fever broke."

  "Oh?" Linguini crossed his arms with a face full of concern. "Then how have you been cleaning up? I mean, you must be, you hardly ever smell bad enough to notice."

  "I, um… I-I use a rag I wet in the sink with a bar of soap." The boy looked away in equal parts embarrassed and ashamed. "I know it probably sounds stupid but I just don't-"

  "It's not stupid." An understanding Ho said in a calming manner. "I may not know much about this subject but I'm sure people that have had… your experience would be afraid of something like it happening again." He signed, disappointed at himself. "We-I really should have asked about your bath situation when you told me how awful Ring Ring's behavior was. I guess it was just… easier not to think about it."

  "But it's not your responsibility!" Garu nearly cried in a pleading tone. "I could have said something! Please don't-"

   The shorter man hugging him. "Yes it is." He cabled Garu's head in his shoulder. "You are still a teenager, you still need guidance, and you still need help. Help that we should have given you sooner than we did. Please let us help you, Garu."

   The boy said nothing as he tightened the embrace.

   A somber Pucca silently watched her other uncles join in the hug. 'This must have been eating them up since the attack.' A single tear trickled down. 'They shouldn't blame themselves, they didn't know she would go off the deep end and they can't look after us every hour of the day.' She huffed. 'Not that it would have helped.'

   Deciding to no longer stand on the side lines the maiden embraced the warrior from behind. All five stood there in the hug wishing nothing but the best for each other.

Chapter Text

   They parted with sniffling noses and red eyes.

  "Well, that's some way to start the morning." Linguini chuckled as he wiped away a stray tear. "I can't remember the last time I cried like that."

  "I do." Dumpling muttered sadly before turning to his niece's boyfriend with a wide smile. "Garu, could you go ahead and start gathering ingredients for us? We'd really appreciate it. And Pucca, if it's not too much to ask can you take this stuff to Garu's?" He patted her shoulder. "We can moved it later if you don't want to."

   The young maiden shook her head with a smile and effortlessly lifted the heavy load in her arms. She looked rather odd with the tub over one arm and the large blinds. Pucca looked back and gave a brief nod before taking off into the woods.

  "I feel a little bad making her do that by herself." Ho said in a guilty tone. "She's just like her mother sometimes, always willing to lend a helping hand."

   The other brothers somberly nodded in agreement.

   Garu's ears perked up at the mention of the assent parent. 'Pucca's mom? I wonder why they don't talk about her, or Pucca's dad for that matter?' The ninja glanced at the men's faces to find a deep mourning in their eyes. 'Oh.' His gaze drifted to the ground. 'She's alone too… well, not all alone.' He lifted his head back to the chefs. 'Pucca has them to look after her.' Garu let himself put on a determined smile. 'And me too, for better or for worse.' Stepping away from the chefs he went in and grabbed his bag.

   The teen left the village without a sound, thinking about where to forage that day.

   Ultimately Garu decided fresh wild herbs would go nicely with the locally grown vegetables he was to collect on his way back. So the boy was deep in a dark forest peeking between trees and rocks for the tiny treasures.

  'Ah' There's one!' He plucked a few leave filled trigs off a small plant. 'I think just a few more than it'll be time to go back. Maybe I'll have enough time to walk Pucca to class.' Garu paused at the thought. 'Wow, I know he was just scolding me for picking what he wanted but Abyo was right, I have changed.' Taking a moment the ninja looked back on recent months. 'Have I been spending too much time with Pucca? Do I need to focus on training more? I mean, I'm almost back where I was right before the incident but am I doing enough?' A long sigh blew out his mouth. 'The adults haven't said anything about it. I'll just have to ask Master Chang what he thinks when I see him.'

   A loud crunching of leaves alerting various creatures of the forest and one pondering teen.

   Garu turned around just in time to spot a detached fist flying towards his face. In a split second he ducked and rolled out of the way. After securing the bag of ingredients to his back the young warrior pulled out a blade. Ready to retaliate in an instant Garu stood to face the attacker.

   A man and the four others just like him were dressed in identical waiter attire with emotionless expressions.

  'Them again!' The young man growled at the robotic servers. 'When is Fyah going to run out of these things?'

   At the exact moment the first robot's hand flew back into place the rest scattered and surrounded Garu from all sides.

   The forest was dead still.

   Garu threw a shuriken at the electronic man infront of him right before using his sword to slice the rocket fist coming at his left side two.

   Seizing an opportunity at the sudden open other androids jumped at the ninja from behind.

  "Hrmf!" He responded by dropping a smoke bomb rendering his enemies blind. With three quick swipes the bots fell to the ground motionless as their heads rolled.

   The remaining waiter stumbled back as it assessed the situation. Seeing one's associates decapitated corpses would send any man screaming for the hills, but this was a machine and it's programming was too strong causing it to rush forward.

   No mercy was given as Garu stabbed it through the chest.

   With a slight "shink" of the withdrawing weapon the last robot landed in a heap.

  'That takes care of that.' He stared at all the damage he had caused. 'It's a good thing these aren't human.' Garu chuckled nervously to himself. 'Or I would be in a lot of trouble right now.' Walking over to his first target he waited for the sparks to fizzle out. Once they were gone and it was safe Garu took out the small metal object. 'You'd think they'd put all the important stuff deeper inside or something, this is kind of sorry.' The boy put his katana back in its scabbard. 'But I really shouldn't complain, it makes my life easier.'

   The smell of cheap oil slowly started to fill the air.

   Garu's nose crinkled at the unpleasant odor. 'I've wasted enough time just standing here, those ingredients wouldn't deliver themselves!' He took off in the direction of a local farm. 'Fyah and his man have to try harder than that next time.'

   Light began peeking through as the woods became less dense.

  'Why do they keep doing this anyway? It's not like they're making money after….' The teenager shook his head. 'Is it because they hold a grudge like Tobe did? Or…. Oh yeah.' Garu's face hardened. 'Him. Can't imagine what a joy it is working under that guy. So glad I'm not related to that jerk.' His mind left that thought well alone and went back to where it was before the interruption. 'I hope it's not a long session today, I don't want to forget what I'm going to ask him.'

   As he ran the young ninja was another step closer to the advice he needed.

Chapter Text

   A soft humming filled the air as a young woman walking hand in hand with her love to class.

  'I'm so glad I waited for him.' Pucca grinned happily to herself. 'Nothing beats this!' But that sweet moment turned sour as her mind thought back to the morning's revelation. 'I wish I could've done something earlier.' She stared down at the road. 'The last thing Garu deserves is to live his life in fear, especially when it comes to something that personal.' The girl felt her eyes water slightly. 'I knew I should have scared Ring Ring off when I saw how uncomfortable Garu was.' A downcast Pucca sighed. 'Maybe things could have turned out different….'

  "Hm?" The silent warrior looked at the small maiden. His brow furrowed at finding her on the edge of tears. Questions began to fill his head, however, instead of asking them Garu slowly came to a stop.

   Too deep into her own thoughts Pucca didn't notice her boyfriend's lack of moment until she felt a tight tug on her arm. Worried, the girl glanced back at the still ninja.

   Now with her full attention Garu calmly stepped in front of his confused girlfriend. He gently lifted the hand he was holding and gave it a tender kiss.

    Pucca didn't mean to swoon so hard at the simple yet meaningful gesture but sometimes she couldn't help herself. A mad blush painted her cheek as she giggled.

   Garu smiled as his lips parted from Pucca's small hand, knowing he just made her day a little better.

   It didn't take them long to get to the martial artist studio after that.

  'Wonder what we'll learn today.' The young lady entered through the door her beloved warrior had opened for her. 'Whatever it is I'm-' She paused at the sight of certain someone. "Jing Jing?"

  "Um, hi." Jing Jing greeted a little nervously from her seat at the end of the room. "I take you're in this class too?"

   Pucca nodded and sat down next to her in Garu's usual spot. "So why are you here? I thought you were on vacation."

  "Chad's on vacation." The kunoichi corrected her. "He just dragged me along for the ride." A hint of annoyance lined Jing Jing's tone. "I wanted a change of pace, honestly all that partying was getting tiring." Then she added very quietly. "And I didn't want to be around that girl you told me about. Knowing I'm around someone that awful makes me sick."

  "That's probably how most of the village feels." The other girl said as she thought of all the angry mobs over the few months.

  "Good morning everyone." Chang smiled warmly at the group of teens. "Today I'm glad to introduce the new student housing us for the time being. I hope all of you help her feel welcomed." He waited until they all had a chance to greet their newest classmate. "With Jing Jing joining us I believe it would be best if we determine what level each of you are at. To do that everyone will have a chance to spar with one another. Do not feel bad if you come very last, it just means you'll have to work harder is all." The master clapped his hands together. "Now, let's get started!"

   The results of the exercise were fairly predictable with Pucca coming up on top followed by Garu then the rest being on nearly equal footing. Jing Jing only one remaining that needed to be assessed.

   And she was pitted against Ching.

  "Are you two ready?" Their teacher asked calmly.

   They nodded.

   He nodded back. "Begin!"

   The girls' battle could only be described as… disappointing. Ching easily pinged Jing Jing to the floor every time she went to attack.

  "Why can't I do this?" The kunoichi cried out as she sat up. "Is there something I'm missing."

  "Hey, it's alright." Gently Chang knelt on the ground and put a hand on the distressed girl's shoulder. "Remember what I said earlier, this shows you that you need more practice. These children have been under my instruction for years. The one you just fought was my daughter and I always made sure she follows through with her training. I'm sure in your short stay here you'll catch up quite a bit, ok?"

  "Ok." She responded softly. "It's just frustrating sometimes."

  "I understand that, but that is why it's important to keep moving forward. One day all your hard work will pay off, I promise." The instructor addressed the rest of the class. "I know our session wasn't very long but that's it for today because I need to put together what all of you need to work on. I hope to see all of you at our next lesson."

  "Hey Jing Jing?" Ching stepped forward. "Do you want to hang out with us? Pucca and I were going to the forest to see if there were any flowers left but you're welcome to come."

  "Oh, sure." Jing Jing brightened up a little. "I'd like that."

   The maiden in purple turned to the boys. "How about you two? Want to join?"

  "We would Ching." Abyo flexed his arms. "But Garu and I need to settle to score."

  "Nuh-uh." Garu shook his head.

  "Oh! You're scared!" He smirked. "Think I'll beat you? Is that it?"

  "No." The ninja asked flatly before explaining. "I need to ask Chang a few questions before I leave, then I need to go check on the cats. They're probably really upset with me since I haven't fed them since yesterday."

  "Oh you have cats?" The new girl in the group spoke excitedly. "What are their names?"

  "Mio and Yani." His voice had a hint of surprise at her exuberance.

  "Can I see them?" A hopeful Jing Jing asked.

  "You'll probably see them around the village sooner or later." Worried that he may have come off as rude he continued. "They like to explore a lot."

  "Oh, ok." She seemed a bit let down. "See you."

  "Bye." Garu turned to Pucca and whispered. "If you three come across them please let Jing Jing say hi before sending them home."

   She merely giggled.