A Strange Request...

Dark clouds loomed on in the sky as rain softly drizzled down over the tin rooftops of Konoha village, adding a soothing lull to the already quiet night. A warm, radiant light could be seen peeking through the flaps that covered the entrance to the Kurasaki Tea House. Puffs of smoke could be seen rising from the covered chimney on top of the roof, adding to the already quaint feeling that the building conveyed.

Inside the Tea House, the quiet murmur of friends created a soothing atmosphere, which matched the soft glow that seemed to permeate the room. Hyaku sat quietly in the corner, as he always had whenever he visited his place of solace. The fireplace next to his seat illuminated the entire room, it's warm flames licking softly at the skin on his arm. Most of the patrons avoided the spot because of the smoky smell that seemed linger... but not Hyaku. The smoke was just another comfort he had gotten used to, one that reminded him he was home.

A hot cup of tea sat snugly in Hyaku's cupped hands, the heat it transferred into his palms was cherished by each one of his fingers. Hyaku brought the cup up to his face for a sip, stopping only for a short moment to let his nose be wrapped in the warm steam. Every part of his body felt relaxed and at peace, this was the only place that he could truly let his guard down in.