Naruto-ReBorn as a Baker

Chapter 252: Early Morning Encounter

The serene stillness of the early morning was broken by the sudden appearance of an ANBU operative at the gazebo where Malik, the affluent and somewhat notorious figure of the Hidden Leaf Village, had apparently spent the night. The gentle rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of birds underscored the unusualness of the scene as Malik stirred from his sleep, the cool morning air brushing against his exposed skin.

He lay sprawled under his finely tailored clothes of pink and gold, which barely covered his chubby chocolate-colored skin, a testament to the previous night's escapades that had clearly carried on until dawn. The sudden presence of the ANBU, a secretive force within the village known for handling matters of great importance, suggested the urgency of her visit.

The ANBU, known as Hikari Yoru, stood with a poise that spoke of lethal efficiency and calm authority. Her mask, a stylized fox design with intricate red markings, concealed her expressions, while her piercing blue eyes fixed Malik with a gaze that was both sharp and assessing.

Malik, recovering his wits, sat up and with a casual flick of his wrist, enveloped himself in a swirl of pink magic. His clothes snapped into place with precision, a show of his not just magical prowess but also his flair for the dramatic.

"I hope I haven't caught you at a bad time," Hikari's voice was neutral, her tone betraying none of the curiosity that the situation warranted.

Malik chuckled, standing up and brushing himself off. "There's never a bad time, just unexpected moments. To what do I owe the pleasure of this early visit, Miss Hikari?"

"Lady Tsunade requests your presence immediately," Hikari stated, her voice still devoid of emotion. "It seems there are matters that require your... unique expertise."

"Ah, the life of a man in demand," Malik quipped, his tone light. He shot her a charming grin, not missing a beat to flirt despite the situation. "And to what do I owe the honor of the lovely and lethal Hikari Yoru finding me in such a... secluded spot?"

Hikari turned to leave, her cloak fluttering slightly with the movement. Over her shoulder, she threw him a line that only deepened the mystery, "We have our ways. Besides, finding you wasn't hard. You're not exactly a master of stealth."

Before Malik could inquire further, she vanished as quickly and silently as she had appeared, leaving a swirl of leaves in her wake. Malik stood there for a moment, the hint of a smile playing on his lips as he processed the brief encounter.

He knew better than to keep Tsunade waiting. With a final glance at the now-empty gazebo, Malik set off towards the Hokage's office, his mind already shifting gears to anticipate the needs of the formidable Lady Fifth Hokage. The morning was crisp, and as he walked, the village slowly came to life around him, unaware of the machinations of its more shadowy inhabitants. Whatever Tsunade needed, Malik was ready. After all, life in the Hidden Leaf was never dull.

Malik made his way to the Hokage's office with the usual blend of anticipation and intrigue that accompanied such summons and as long as Tsunade wasn't in a bad mood, or wanted him to do something crazy, he would have his way. As he entered, the scent of ink and parchment filled the air, a testament to the Hokage's constant workload, Malik looking at the piles of paper work had to hold back a frown, he to knew the burdens of staying at a desk all day, and endlessly reading and sighing things. he exchanged a warm, affectionate glance with Shizune, one of his many fiancées, who greeted him with a smile that was both loving and slightly apologetic, given the professional setting. Though the personal connection was strong, today's visit was strictly business.

He took a seat and waited patiently as Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage, finished signing a stack of official documents. Her movements were brisk and efficient, but when she finally paused to stretch, Malik couldn't help but notice the deliberate emphasis on her formidable physical presence, her large breasts settling heavily against the desk, a silent assertion of her combined strength and femininity.

"Good morning, Lady Tsunade," Malik greeted, his tone respectful yet imbued with his characteristic charm. "How may I be of service today?"

Tsunade gave him a stern look over her desk, then a slight smirk played at the corners of her mouth. "Firstly, Malik, try to keep your escapades confined to your mansion. The entire village doesn't need to know whenever you decide to sleep off your adventures wherever you please."

Malik chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Fair enough, Lady Tsunade. I'll keep my nocturnal activities more discreet."

"Second," Tsunade continued, getting down to business, "I need you to chaperone two guests who are currently in the village. Your role will be somewhat... dual in nature. On one hand, you'll need to ensure they don't get into any mischief. On the other, they're important allies, so it's crucial they leave with a good impression of our hospitality."

Malik's eyebrows shot up. "Me? A chaperone?" Malik leaned forward, intrigued. "May I ask who these guests are?"

Tsunade shuffled some papers before looking up. "You're already acquainted with both. Sasame from the Fūma Clan and Suzumebachi from the Kamizuru Clan of Iwagakure."

A knowing smile spread across Malik's face as he recalled both women. Sasame, with her long flowing auburn hair and expressive brown eyes, had always been a figure of both beauty and resilience. Her traditional kunoichi attire, a sleeveless purple top and matching arm guards, spoke of her practical approach to her duties while still maintaining an elegance that was uniquely hers and if he remembered correctly she had C cups the last time he saw her.

Suzumebachi, on the other hand, was a striking figure with her shoulder-length brown hair and steel-grey eyes accented with orange markings. Her altered purple kimono dress not only highlighted her large breasts but also her strong, agile form, making her both a formidable and captivating presence, she also smelled like honey.

"Both are formidable kunoichi in their own right," Malik mused aloud, his thoughts momentarily wandering to past encounters that blended professionalism with personal undertones. "I'll ensure they receive the full extent of Hidden Leaf's hospitality."

"Good," Tsunade replied, her tone softening slightly. "Both are key in fostering stronger alliances with their respective clans. Handle this with your usual... flair, but keep it professional, Malik."

Malik stood, bowing slightly. "You have my word, Lady Tsunade. They will find their stay both enjoyable and fruitful."

With a final nod to Shizune, who still wore a smile tinged with amusement at their interaction, Malik winked at her, a promise of a more private conversation later. Malik left the office. His mind already began plotting the engagements and activities that would both entertain and impress their distinguished guests. As he walked through the building, the sun breaking through the leaves overhead of the trees outside and in through the windows, Malik felt a familiar excitement at the challenge. Diplomacy, after all, was just another form of art—and he was a master of his craft.

In the less frequented corners of the Hokage building, on a lower floor removed from the usual bustle of administrative activity, Genma Shiranui found himself in the role of host—an assignment he accepted with his typical casual demeanor but now regretted as the atmosphere turned tense. He was in a moderately decorated room, which served as a neutral meeting place for guests and dignitaries, and today it was the venue for an unexpectedly fraught reunion.

Seated at a traditional low table, Suzumebachi and Sasame were initially engaged in what appeared to be a polite, if somewhat guarded, conversation. Suzumebachi, with her striking features and keen grey eyes, wore her altered purple kimono with an elegance that contrasted sharply with the tension now building in the room. Sasame, her auburn hair neatly tied back, exuded a quiet strength that belied her clan's troubled history.

The dialogue had started on common ground, discussing recent missions and the state of their respective lands. However, the conversation soon veered into dangerous territory when Sasame inadvertently mentioned the historical conflicts between their clans. "It's known that the Kamizuru were one of the major reasons the Fūma numbers dwindled so drastically," Sasame said, her voice tinged with a mix of resentment and resignation.

Suzumebachi's expression hardened slightly, her polite facade wavering. "I wasn't aware of that history," she responded, her voice steady but cold. "Our records of that era are... sparse."

Sasame quickly tried to retract her statement, recognizing the slip. "I apologize, Suzumebachi. It's past history—our clan isn't what it used to be, certainly not as formidable as the Kamizuru."

An awkward silence descended, the weight of new and old grievances hanging heavily between them. Genma, observing the situation, chose to remain silent, knowing well that any ill-considered interjection could exacerbate the tension. He wished for Tsunade's tact or Shizune's diplomacy but settled for hoping the door would open to reveal someone capable of defusing the situation.

As the quiet stretched on, Genma contemplated the complex web of alliances and enmities that defined the shinobi world. These interactions were a delicate dance, often requiring more than mere diplomacy—sometimes a touch of personal charm and familiarity, which Malik could bring in spades, was needed.

Finally, deciding that leaving them in silence would do more harm than good, Genma cleared his throat softly. "Both your clans have storied histories with Konoha," he ventured cautiously. "Perhaps there are opportunities now for new beginnings, new alliances?"

Suzumebachi nodded slowly, the corner of her mouth twitching upwards in a semblance of a smile. "Perhaps," she conceded, her tone suggesting she was willing to move past the conversation's earlier discomfort.

Sasame also nodded, her expression softening as she looked towards Suzumebachi. "New beginnings," she echoed, a note of hopeful sincerity in her voice.

Genma watched the exchange, a silent sigh of relief escaping him as the conversation tentatively shifted towards discussions of potential joint missions and collaborative ventures. As he facilitated the dialogue, his thoughts occasionally drifted to Malik, wondering how he would have navigated this delicate situation with his usual flamboyant flair. Perhaps, in this instance, a straightforward, less flamboyant approach was what was needed to bridge centuries-old divides.

The meeting gradually concluded with agreements to explore cooperative efforts, each party cautiously optimistic about the future. As Suzumebachi and Sasame left the room, their parting words were polite, their stances relaxed—a small victory in the grand scheme but a victory nonetheless.

Genma remained in the room for a few moments longer, pondering the intricate dance of politics and history that defined the lives of the shinobi. Today had been a reminder of the deep-seated histories that shaped their present, and perhaps, in their cautious optimism, a hint at a more united future.

Genma let himself smile, "That wasn't so hard, Genma now was it."

Malik's entrance into the previously occupied meeting room was marked by his signature blend of elegance and slight theatrics. The room, however, greeted him with silence, void of the two kunoichi he was supposed to meet. He scanned the empty space, his expression shifting from anticipation to mild annoyance. "Well, shit, I can't be that late," he muttered under his breath, ruminating on the delay caused by his quick detour. "Shouldn't have gone to pee," he sighed, half-amused, half-irritated with himself, "Who would let 2 important guest, just wonder off in a forigein village."

Knowing the responsibility now fell on him to locate Suzumebachi and Sasame, Malik adjusted his cufflinks—a small but calming ritual—and set out to find them. He hoped they hadn't wandered far from the Hokage building, given the potential for complications in hosting foreign ninjas without supervision.

As Malik navigated the corridors, his presence alone turned heads; his reputation as a charismatic and influential figure in the village wasn't just for show. After a brief search, he found Suzumebachi and Sasame in one of the building's tranquil courtyards, seemingly having continued their conversation—or at least an attempt at one—outside the confines of the formal meeting room.

Upon seeing Malik, both women's expressions changed noticeably. While there was an underlying tension between them, his arrival brought a visible ease. Suzumebachi's stance softened, her eyes lighting up with a mixture of respect and something warmer. Sasame, ever the poised kunoichi, greeted him with a smile that, while professional, carried a hint of personal affection.

"Malik, you found us," Suzumebachi remarked, her voice holding a teasing note. "We were just discussing the...scenery."

Sasame nodded, adding, "Yes, the Hidden Leaf does have its charms."

Malik, ever the peacekeeper, steered the conversation away from idle chatter. "I'm glad I caught up with you both," he began, capturing their full attention with his charismatic presence. "Now, I suppose we should decide how we'd like to spend the day. We can keep it professional and fun—a tour of the village's most popular spots, perhaps? I could even whip up a special lunch." His suggestion carried the promise of his renowned culinary skills, always a persuasive offer.

Or," he continued, his tone dipping into a more suggestive register, "we could spice things up a bit. A swim at one of our beautiful lakes or a romantic dinner under the stars, prepared by yours truly?" His smile was both inviting and mischievous, designed to appeal to their sense of adventure and perhaps soften the lingering tension between them.

Both women exchanged a brief look, the earlier friction seemingly forgotten in the wake of Malik's suggestions. Suzumebachi, ever the adventurous one, leaned towards the more exciting options. "I think a swim sounds delightful, especially if it ends with one of your famous dinners," she said, a playful challenge in her eyes.

Sasame, considering her options, finally nodded in agreement. "That does sound like a perfect plan. It's been a while since I've had the pleasure of your cooking, Malik," she added, her tone warm and genuinely enthusiastic.

Pleased with their response, Malik clapped his hands together. "Excellent! Let's make a day of it then. We'll start with a light tour, head for a swim, and round it off with a dinner that you won't soon forget."

As they set off together, Malik adeptly kept the conversation flowing, subtly ensuring that both kunoichi felt included and valued. His natural charm and attentiveness not only bridged the gap between Suzumebachi and Sasame but also reinforced his role as a capable host and mediator, turning what could have been an awkward day into a potential forging of new friendships—or at least, a memorable encounter.

Malik's small smile widened into a more playful grin as he led Suzumebachi and Sasame into one of his many side ventures—a chic clothing store known for its exclusive designs and personal service. The atmosphere inside was a blend of luxury and intimacy, perfect for their impromptu swimsuit shopping.

"Suzumebachi, Sasame, here we are," Malik announced as they entered. The interior was elegantly lit, with mirrors strategically placed to maximize the light. Swimsuits of various designs and colors adorned the walls and racks, ranging from the daring to the demure.

Suzumebachi's eyes immediately lit up with mischief as she picked up a risqué two-piece swimsuit. The top was a deep purple that would complement her steel-grey eyes, intricately tied at the back with thin strings, and the bottoms were equally skimpy, offering minimal coverage.

Sasame, on the other hand, hesitated before selecting a more conservative option. She chose a one-piece swimsuit in a soft blue color, adorned with subtle floral patterns. The suit had a high neckline and was cut to enhance her athletic figure without revealing too much.

"Try those on, if you'd like," Malik encouraged, his voice smooth and reassuring. "I trust your judgment, and I'd love to see you both comfortable in what you choose."

As the women retreated to the changing rooms, Malik perused the men's section, selecting a sleek, black swim trunks for himself. The fabric was lightweight, designed to be both functional and flattering.

A few moments later, Suzumebachi emerged from the changing room, her confident stride accentuating the bold choice of her bikini. The purple fabric contrasted strikingly against her light tanned skin, and the bikini top was designed to enhance her curves, while the bottoms tied at the sides with delicate knots.

Sasame came out next, looking endearing in her blue one-piece. The swimsuit hugged her curves modestly, and the floral pattern added a touch of elegance to her athletic frame. Her cheeks were tinged with a blush as she saw Malik's approving gaze.

"Fantastic choices, both of you," Malik applauded, his eyes twinkling with appreciation. "But let's make sure they're just right."

He clapped his hands lightly, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "Now, turn around for me, and let's see the full effect." As they did, Malik gave a gentle pat on their backsides, partly in jest, partly to encourage them. "Perfect, but I need to see you both in action. How about a little walk? Move around, make sure they feel as good as they look."

Suzumebachi smirked, clearly enjoying the attention, while Sasame nodded, still a bit shy but smiling. They both took a few steps, twisting and turning to feel the fit of the swimsuits.

"If you need any adjustments, don't hesitate to ask," Malik added, his voice a blend of professionalism and flirtation. "And if you need help with the ties or straps, I'm here—or better yet, I could assist with a touch of magic to ensure a perfect fit."

The offer hung in the air, filled with playful innuendo, yet underscored by Malik's genuine desire to make them feel at ease and appreciated. The atmosphere in the store was light and flirtatious, a stark contrast to the tension of their earlier encounter. With Malik's guidance, what started as a simple necessity had turned into an enjoyable, even exhilarating experience for them all.

--- sometime later ---

Malik's eyes sparkled with good-natured mischief as he stepped closer to Suzumebachi, his hands gently hovering near her shoulders. "Now, let's make sure this top is fitting you just right," he said, his voice a low purr. He leaned in slightly, his breath warm against her ear, and she shivered, a small smile playing on her lips. "I wouldn't want anything... spilling out, now, would we?"

With a delicate touch, he adjusted the strings at the back of the top, pulling them taut to ensure a snug fit. His fingers brushed against her skin, a light caress that sent a shiver down her spine. "There we go," he murmured, his hands lingering for a moment before he stepped back, satisfied with his adjustments.

Next, he turned his attention to Sasame, who blushed slightly under his scrutiny. "And for you, my dear," he began, his voice soft and reassuring, "let's make sure everything is... packed in nicely."

He reached out, his hands gently cupping her backside, giving it a light squeeze to ensure the swimsuit bottoms were secure. Sasame gasped softly, her blush deepening, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she bit her lower lip, her eyes meeting Malik's with a mix of surprise and appreciation.

Malik, ever the gentleman, kept his touch professional, despite the intimate nature of the gesture. "There," he said, his voice warm and comforting, "everything is in its place. You look stunning, Sasame. Both of you do."

He stepped back, his hands falling to his sides, his gaze appreciative but respectful. "Now, let's get you both out of here. I think it's time we put those swimsuits to the test, don't you?"

Suzumebachi, her confidence bolstered by Malik's touch and words, shot him a playful grin. "I'm ready when you are, Malik."

Sasame, still blushing but with a newfound confidence in her stride, nodded in agreement. "Let's do it."

As they left the store, Malik couldn't help but tease them both, he could feel the heat coming off of them both, and as someone of the few women he was intrested in romaticaly that he hadn't slept with, he knew thier taste would be amazing, but for now, he would wait, plus He had not only helped them find swimsuits that fit perfectly but also managed to boost their confidence and ease the tension that had been present earlier. He knew that the day ahead would be filled with laughter, flirtation, and perhaps even a little more than that. But for now, he was content with the progress he had made, one touch at a time.