Feathers, Fur, And Leaves
By Naruto Son Of Artemis
She had just gotten down from the chariot and into Tribute Tower as yet another Peacekeeper walked up to her to discuss what every other Peacekeeper had argued with her about since she had arrived at the Capitol.
"I'm sorry, young lady, but we can't let you keep him. He must be sent back to your district." The generic looking Peacekeeper told the young tribute. In her arms was a small fox with 9 tails and the most piercing blue eyes most people would ever see.
"But we're each allowed one thing from our own districts. He's all I have. He's the only tie I have to my district. Please." She replied, pleadingly. Most people by now would assume that this tribute was in fact Katniss Everdeen, 'The Girl On Fire'. This girl, however, was twelve years old with brown skin, curly black hair, and the most peculiar ability to become nearly invisible in the trees. Her name was Rue.
The Fox in her arms licked her cheek affectionately, making her giggle as the Peacekeeper gave up and walked away, muttering about 'damned loopholes' and 'pets'. Rue smiled and held him in her arms as she walked with Thresh to the elevator. Thresh scratched the fox behind the ears, prompting the fox to let his tongue hang out as his head lolled to the side, giving Thresh better access to the special spot. As Thresh continued to scratch, his expression became troubled. The fox licked his hand reassuringly, causing his face to turn to a smile.
"I'm glad you brought him along, Rue. He's gonna be your best chance at survival. Yours and mine." He said as he ruffled his counterpart's hair. She smiled as the elevator stopped at their floor. They were both very tired, so they ate quietly and then both were off to bed. The fox leaped into Rue's arms as she lay down and eagerly licked her cheek.
"Okay, okay, it's safe now." She told him, giggling as the tongue tickled her chin. The fox made an odd sound, a combination of clearing one's throat, gargling, and choking. Finally, a calm voice came from his muzzle.
"Good night, Rue. Sweet dreams. I love you." He told her with a smile. She gently kissed his nose and held him close as he closed his eyes. What she had said to the peacekeeper was true. While she had her family back in District Eleven, only her true mentor could help her here. But for now, she would obey and rest.
Her eyes became heavy, images of battles past merging with her vision. A man with a sword taller than him. A giant snake. A raccoon made of sand. A man with a lightning sword. Another man wearing strange armor surrounded by a black dragon. A creature with lightning in it's hand. A fox taller than a mountain. An orange swirl.
"I love you too… Naruto." She muttered as she drifted off to sleep.