Naruto packed all the necessary belongings in several scrolls. He wouldn't know how long he'd be gone, so being prepared was something he wouldn't take lightly. Finishing in a matter of minutes, the blonde Jōnin gazed around his room once more, knowing he wouldn't be in Konoha for some months or even longer. It wasn't until his eyes rested on a particular set of photos. He swept over them once more. They were of him and various people he had friendships with. However, his so called 'friends' hadn't been informed of his abrupt departure and most likely would never be. Having wasted enough time reminiscing, Naruto took the photos and laid them face down before gathering his scrolls and exiting his house. Once outside, he saw that the moon was full and bright, with little cloud cover in the sky.
'It was just like that fateful night…' closing his eyes, Naruto took a deep breath before heading to the direction of the Naka Ravine behind the Uchiha estate. It took him some time, but the paced walk helped him clear his mind. Arriving at his destination, the Kyūbi Jinchūriki stood before the great sword that he personally embedded into the solid earth. Months before, he used his friend's sword as a memorial and grave marker. He designated it as a tribute to Zack and his teachings. Now, he felt that he'd need his friend's guidance as he followed this journey. Pulling on the handle with no difficulty, Naruto inspected the enormous broadsword and found there was no rust or wear since he last hefted the weapon. Yet even with the flawless inspection, he felt the need to care for the memento with his own hands.
Sauntering through Konoha's streets, Naruto ignored the chatter and bustle around him. Once he made it through the gates, nothing else but his mission would directly concern him. Nevertheless, he hadn't counted on some of his comrades staying out late with their own groups and family that night.
Right as the whiskered blonde passed a row of food stalls, a woman around his age poked her head from inside one of the many stalls to see whose familiar scent had reached her nose. She hadn't heard nor seen the blonde in a few weeks and had honestly gotten worried for her former classmate. With everything that's been going on, she wasn't able to get into contact with him. Only from mutual friends or in passing by acquaintances, had the woman heard of him. But now, walking to Kami knows where, she sees his retreating back.
'Naruto…? Where are you going?'
A/N: Another 'First Look' at one of my stories that is coming soon. Not much, but it gets the word out I suppose. Now that my readers know I'm still active, I believe it's time for me to get back to what I enjoy doing. See you all soon!