Hello, hope you enjoy this story. And no, I don't own Naruto although if I did, Naruto would pay more attention to Hinata than Sasuke-teme.
Dealing with Demons
"Well, if it isn't the little demon bitch again." An elderly man leaning casually against an elm tree shifted.
The comment was directed at a young girl, whose innocence glowed in every fiber of her body. Pearly lavender eyes glanced from the blond genin up at the older shinobi, whose eyes narrowed. Hands shaking, she gently lay she flowers she had been picking in a wicker basket brought along for just that purpose.
She stood up and bowed before him, midnight blue locks falling around her face.
"Ohayo, Elder Hiroshi...do you require my assistance? " She replied softly, noticing the heavy bag full of scrolls he was carrying. A weathered riding crop was gripped tightly in his left hand, and in the distance she could see an old grey pony standing in the shelter of a willow tree. Herpony, she noticed with slight annoyance. It was an early childhood gift that had been retired long ago, and shouldn't have been used. The welts on the beast's side were evidence of how much the man favored the whip.
Thin chapped lips tightened, and a gnarled hand shot out, hitting the girl roughly across her face. Any other child would have been knocked out on the spot, or at least fallen from the harsh blow, but she only winced and stood her ground.
"Demon. Are you suggesting an elder of my infamous clan is too frail to be of any use?" He thundered, glaring down at her.
The girl bowed again, eyes closed in submission. The gust of wind that passed over the meadow made her shiver slightly.
"Please, elder...I have told you time and time again that we are of the same blood, whether or not I am a jinchuuriki...and whether or not you accept it, I too belong to this clan you speak of." She brushed a few stray hairs out of her eyes, once again fixing her elder with an innocent look.
The elder's light lavender eyes flashed; before she could brace herself, he struck her again, this time with the riding crop. Blood welled up on pale skin; he had struck her twice in the same place, and it was taking it's toll on her delicate skin.
The look of sweet innocence abandoned her eyes, only to be replaced by a darkness that reeked of bloodlust. Her small fingers dug themselves reflexively into the soft patch of grass where she had fallen.
"There is not a human soul that resides within you...in mind, body, and spirit, you shall always be known as Gobi, the same monster that wiped out a clan." He walked around her, making sure to tap her sharply on the forehead with the crop. "I have business with your father, demon. And I shall make sure to tell him of your impudence." He whistled, and the little pony came trotting behind him.
He continued walking down the hill, the sack of scrolls now tied around the saddle horn. She felt a sinking feeling in her heart; Elder Hiroshi was but one of many who abhorred her for her inner qualities. But hearing these words from his mouth hurt especially.
"You're wrong!"
"Hm?" Hiroshi turned to see the young girl standing where he left her, the wounds on her face already healed by her accursed demon healing abilities.
"Iamhuman, and...I am your granddaughter as well...why won't you ever acknowledge me for who I am?"She stepped closer, determined eyes imploring him to answer.
The old man's dry lip curled up in a smirk. "Accept your fate, Gobi. A human body you may have now, but wherever you go, your misdeeds shall cast a shadow of darkness over you." His eyes widened slightly when she came even closer until they were separated by about fifteen feet.
"Elder Hiroshi...you never call me by name anymore...can you at least do that for me?"
The elder's eyes narrowed. "You were never Hinata to me, demon. Go back to the mountains where you belong."
Hinata's eyes darkened, and the air was heavy with killing intent.
"Then in turn I will never consider the Hyuuga my real family." She knew it wasn't a good idea to piss off an elder, yet she was blinded with rage.
The irate man let go of the bridle and quickly closed the distance between them, the riding crop raised.
"I'll teach you to speak of the Hyuugas like that!" He brought the small whip down, only to find his arm suspended in midair, unable go farther. He looked down, eyes widened at the sight he beheld.
The demon child, radiating a desire to kill, had grasped his wrist firmly in a strong, muscular arm reinforced with an aura of purple demonic chakra.
Hinata turned her now-gold eyes on him, fixing him with a murderous glare. The shocked elder found himself unable to move or defend himself; he could only stare down at the small girl.
"I would not have done that if I were you," she whispered through inch-long canines. "Angering a 'demon' is foolish indeed."
"Wh-what are you going to do to me?" Her grandfather spluttered, feeling her grip on his wrist tighten.
The only answer he received was an audible 'crack' as she swiftly snapped his wrist in two places, leaving the old man to moan in agony. Hinata watched with cold eyes as he fell to his knees, coddling his limp wrist.
"Youarea monster...an heiress like you will lead my clan to shambles..." he ground out through clenched teeth.
The younger Hyuuga allowed a grim smirk to grace her features. "I have heard that all my life...it makes no difference what you think of me."
Picking up her flower basket, she walked further into Konoha forest without a backward glance. Her head was held high with dignity, and her soft eyes had returned to their normal pearly lavender color.
Little one...that was a very foolish thing to do...
"It's not like I care, Houkou. If anyone should be complaining, it's me." Hinata said aloud, walking along one of the dusty, sun-baked forest paths.
And why is that?
"It is your fault my clan loathes me. Your rampages are what cost me their love." Her grip tightened on the basket's handle. The tears she'd been holding back threatened to fall.
Before you go blaming me, may I remind you that it was your father who sealed me in the first place...
"What my father did was right for the village. It wasn't your right to go into the village and destroy the remnants of an already diminished clan."
You know nothing, little one...your father sealed me for his own benefit. He used you for a container because he was unwilling to sacrifice a more valuable clan member...you and I both know that...
Hinata scoffed and kicked at the ground with a sandaled foot. "I know...it's not like I haven't figured that out already."
Hmm...
"And it's not like either of us can change the past...you may have had your reason for attacking the village but in the end...it's screwed up both our lives. You know how much I dislike you."
You would never understand my reasons, little one...and I shall never tell you, either.
"Feh. Houkou, I can care less about your reasons..."
No, and I can respect that...you are caged within your family, little one...regardless of the cursed seal some of your more unfortunate kin bear.
"Yes...I'm surprised Father even kept me as heiress, being the weakest and all."
You mean you haven't figured it out?
"Figured what out?"
Little one, the only reason your father kept you as heiress is because he hoped you would harness my powers.
Hinata let out a small laugh tinged with nervousness. "And why would he want that?"
Well, a mere whelp like you is influenced easily by her parents. Why do you think your father shoves his lectures of 'clan tradition' and 'loyalty' down your throat every day? Why do you think he forces you to put make up and all that crap on your face every morning to hide your whisker marks?
For the first time Hinata stopped and faced the transparent, spirit-like figure next to her. Gold eyes stared boldly down at her, and five white tails swept back and forth over the ground.
"He doesn't want anyone outside the family to know about you, why else?" Her pearly eyes widened in fear.
That may be so, little one. However...The dog-like figure lay down in front of her, one front paw crossed delicately over the other. He has an ulterior motive...you may not notice a thing, but I, being stuck without any say inside you, have spent the entire twelve years of your life listening to what goes on within the Hyuuga. I've watched, I've payed attention when you failed to do so, and have come to a conclusion.
"So...what does he want, then?" She accidentally dropped the basket, an assortment of wild flowers spilling out of them.
He's molding you, little one. He's molding you to become his own likeness of perfection. The very second he retires and you are named Head of Family, you will become like an extension of him. A powerful extension, no, weapon that will follow his orders and bring the village to it's knees.
Hinata stepped closer, allowing one of the tails to wind lightly around her legs as a gesture of comfort. Though she was unable to feel it, since the dog was a mere projection from her mind, she found herself surrendering herself to the kindness of the gesture and sat down as well, finding herself interested in a being that was once the focus of her hatred.
"But how can he do that if I am Head, and have you inside me as well?"
Houkou cocked her head to the side. Status. We are one and the same, Hinata. Dogs like us have the etiquette of knowing status and rank running within our blood from the moment we are born. Nothing can stop Hiashi from being your father, and as an elder and a parent of yours, you may find it difficult to disobey him. If you can destroy what little love you have for your family, you may have a chance at freeing yourself.
"And if I don't?"
You shall be but a puppet, and naught but Hiashi's mindless blather will leave your mouth. You already knew this, Hinata...somewhere in the back of your mind...right?
Hinata nodded numbly. She had been denying all along, yet it was hard to accept.Her demon, the same demon that destroyed a hundred lives, the same evil demon that inhabited her soul held more truth in her words than her father ever did.
Little one...have you not noticed? This is the first time the two of us have had a decent conversation...surely you know this means something? I am the only one you can talk to without fear...see?
"What, Houkou? It doesn't matter...it's not like you liketalking to me."
Now did I ever say that? All these years, you've pushed me away...shunned me...blamed me for your clan's hate. Things happen for a reason, and I feel very justified in destroying that clan...the two of us being stuck together was just an unfortunate setback...but think! You can end all this suffering within your clan.
The young heiress looked up at her through wet, glistening eyes. "H-how?"
Houkou's great golden eyes gleamed. In regards to training you will have to do as I say...it's the only way you will ever grow strong enough to take over the clan.
"How do I know I can trust you?"
Her eyes narrowed dangerously. You have my word. But, in return, you have to do something for me.
"Wh-what do I have to do? At least tell me."
Yes, I will eventually...but not now...you're not ready to handle such a responsibility yet. Hinata...I want you to open my cage...release me now, and you will forever have the power you so rightfully deserve. We will demand our respect, little one, and crush this pathetic village under our paws. It must be punished, my dear...punished for making us suffer so. Hear me out, Hinata.
Her breath hitched; gasping painfully she staggered backward, her fingers digging into the bark of a tree she backed against. "No..."
The demon's eyes gleamed more hungrily than ever. Yes!She got up and thrust her face close to the scared girl's, black lips drawn back in a snarl. She raised her head up and regarded her with an imperious glare. What is the worth in rejecting my offer? Do not take this lightly-I do not do this for just anyone. The First was wise in coming to me for power...and look at him! He knew things, had abilities that no one else had. He was a picture of greatness! And you, a pathetic, small whelp barely out of the womb are rejecting me?
"No...no...don't be mad..." Houkou relaxed slightly and emitted a low growl. What say you now, little one? Speak up!
Hinata squirmed nervously and forced herself to swallow the bile that built up in her throat. It all seemed so wrong; she had worked so hard to prove her loyalty to her clan. Was it worth throwing it all away for power?
Would it matter? No matter what I do, they never acknowledge me...I'll always be the "Demon brat" or "The Gobi" to them...
She took a deep breath, finding comfort in the way the air expanded her lungs. A more relaxed feeling settled over her body; Houkou was now met with a level, determined gaze, the gaze of a strong young woman rather than that of an underfed little girl. She licked her coal black lips in anticipation. The child was indeed a diamond in the ruff. A diamond that needed polishing to bring out her full potential. My new legacy, the demon growled in her mind. With narrowed eyes she watched as the girl drew closer once again and hesitated. Then nodded slowly in acceptance.
What have you to lose? Come to me...you will belong to me and only me...you will follow everything I say, seek my advice and my advise only...you will run when I say run... when I tell you to jump, you say how high, and when I train you, I expect you to work until you drop...stand taller, little one. You're slouching. Houkou gave a faint rumble of approval at the way she straightened up. The girl's carriage was flawless; she was as delicate and graceful as a doe, a queen, even.
"Houkou..."
Yes, dear one?
"My father...he will hurt me again...I...I..." She stopped speaking and looked away, pain etched on her features.
Quiet girl. Stand your ground, and take each blow. When he strikes you upon your face, make sure that the blow lands on your forehead. That will sustain the least damage. If he should lash you, hold it all in, don't satisfy him with your wretched cries for mercy. Have pride in yourself! When I'm through with you, it shall be the tips of our claws on which his fate balances.
"Yes, Houkou."
Houkou gazed evenly at her, then began trotting back down the trail, her transparent body gliding along like that of a ghost. Your first trial begins now. Come!
Her voice was great and powerful, and Hinata could do nothing to prevent the shiver from running up and down her spine. She blinked nervously.
"Where are we going?"
Houkou looked down at the child, who had caught up with her. We shall find you your preferred mate, and gain his trust. Hinata blushed. "I think I'm too young...ano..."
Nonsense. I know who you want, and I approve your choice. The boy, the one who bears the face paint and the golden hair...he shall be an ideal partner for you. I can see it now. This boy is the one who will help you liberate your clan. He is special, little one. I know he is.
A blonde haired boy darted around a corner in the winding streets of Konohagakure village. A few pastries were clamped between his teeth, as he was running on all fours. He glanced over his shoulder at his pursuer; an overweight, balding man wearing an apron. Brandishing a rolling pin, he let loose a string of curses at the young boy, who chuckled under his breath, a mischievous glint in his eye.
As he bounded along, countless villagers ran aside to avoid him. He ignored the pointed fingers, the exclamations of surprise, even the objects thrown at him. His only goal was to escaped with his quarry, unscathed and in one piece. He skidded to a stop right before he ran into a group of young civilian women, who made a show of screaming and running away. He rolled his eyes, growled in exasperation. Nothing new. This happened at the very least once a day.
Promising himself silently to slit their throats one night, he continued his retreat up the well-worn streets and darted into a small, dark alley. The infuriated baker ran past, not even bothering to glance down the small entrance.
Naruto grinned, dropping the slightly squashed scones as he took a deep breath. He had made his first "steal", as Kyuubi no Yoko called it. He closed his eyes as a wave of Kyuubi's affection washed over him, bathing him in a feeling of self-satisfaction.
Well done, kit...keep doing this and you shall be able to provide for your mate, and your own kits, when you have em...you know what you have to do now, he added sternly.
"Yes, fa-Yoko." Naruto obediently picked the food up in his mouth and loped toward the section of woods that was contained withing the village walls. Only when he was safely within the trees did he stop and rest again, this time in front of a large burrow.
"Katsu. I came back, and I have brought an offering of food." The grass over at the mouth of the den rustled, then parted as a large sand-colored shape slipped into view.
"Naruto-kun, is it you?" The two-tailed fennec fox whispered. Her large ears twitched as she scented the food he pushed toward her.
"Kyuubi said I should give you my first steal, since you've protected and provided for me many times."
Katsu nodded in acceptance as several fat kits tumbled out behind her, drawn to the scent of baked food. Whisking the scones up with her strong jaws, the vixen whirled around and disappeared back into her den, the hungry kits waddling after her.
Naruto stared hungrily after them, half-wishing that he had eaten one of them before giving the rest away. Now slightly weakened by his empty stomach, he trudged slowly home, knowing the Hokage would probably give him hell for that morning's misdeeds. He jammed his dusty hands into his pockets. He hated Kyuubi's suggestion of running on all fours, but it sure was a hell of a lot faster when he did it that way.
Don't think you're done yet, kit...Kyubbi warned in his head. You still have your training to do when we get back...you'll never find a mate-or mates- if you don't keep up with your training and surpass the other tods.
"Boys, you mean..." He muttered. The heat was bearing down on him, causing little sweat droplets to dot his forehead.
Same difference. And don't give me none of that attitude, either. If I'm to be stuck in here, the least we can do is come to a compromise.
"Stupid fox. Your idea of a compromise is making me do eve3ry stupid thing you could think of."
What's your point, kit?
"Never mind."Unable to handle the heat, he pulling off his loose black t-shirt when he caught an odd, bright flash from the corner of his eye.
"What's that?"
Dunno, kit. He could mentally picture Kyuubi shrugging. Wait...don't go look. Try using your nose first. Scent training was the first thing I taught you, so don't screw up.
Ignoring his demon's remarks Naruto gathered a little chakra to his nose and inhaled deeply, eyes narrowing as he analyzed the possible identity of the being that moved. A picture of a young girl with pink hair formed in his mind. He smirked, revealing sharp canines.
"Haruno..."
Don't tell me you want her all of a sudden. She does not seem like the type we would ever father kits with...I mean, that pink hair and our genes mixing-
"What's the deal this 'mate' business. You keep telling me to get a whole bunch of girls, but I don't know why."
You seriously don't know? Look kit, when a man and woman love each other, sometimes they give each other a 'special' hug that results in...eh, forget it. The point, you'll get what you've always wanted. A large family, mates who'll love you and all that crap...you'll be happy. Just like you've always wanted...I want that for you... He whispered the last part, flicking an ear in slight embarrassment.
A family...I wonder what it'd be like to have one?All I have is the old man...and even he's too busy to teach me anything...
Naruto continued staring in wonder into the distance, where the pink haired girl was walking through a field, chatting amiably with a blonde haired girl carrying an armful of cosmos flowers. When in the sun, her hair had a light sheen to it that made it seem as if a halo were framing her face. A pinkish halo. A slight blush crossed his cheeks but he quickly forced it down. Just lookingat her made him lose any train of thought. He felt his heart drop as she and her friend disappeared over the top of a hill.
Maybe I should go talk to her...she does look kind of cute...for a girl... Swallowing a nervous gulp, he took a step forward only to be grabbed by the shoulder and yanked against a hard chest.
Immediately he snarled in anger, then fell silent as he felt the sharp point of a kunai being pressed into his back.
"Let...go...of me." He growled.
The unknown person behind tightened his grip, making his shoulder feel numb.
Only a shinobi can grip that hard...probably a chunin or jonin...but more likely a chunin, he decided, thinking carefully on his next move.
"Hmph. The Kyuubi brat. We should have known you'd be nearby. What, with a fox den so close, it's no surprise." The man grunted, which may actually have been a chuckle, and threw him to the ground, following quickly with a sharp kick in the ribs.
The fox den? Katsu...the kits...
The demon container merely lay where he fell. Experience had taught him that the more one resisted, the more one would get beaten, himself being the one. As he was in a weak state from all the training he'd done that morning, he wanted to avoid as many injuries as possible.
"Not saying anything, huh?" The man continued, kneeling down and grabbing him roughly by the hair. "But then, I wouldn't speak if I was about to die, either." The triumphant expression on his face fell when the boy neither spoke nor looked at him. Frowning, he yanked him up practically by the roots.
For the first time Naruto noticed the smell of alcohol on the man's breath. It was so faint, the man probably took about a shot. And a shot was all it took for him to lose it.
His mind seems fragile, kit...be wary...he could snap in a second...
"Damn demon...damn you..." He muttered, dragging the semi-conscious boy deeper into the woods, an empty bottle clutched tightly in his free hand. "Took my wife...my baby girl...my entire life..." His voice broke off in a choked sob, and big tears began rolling down his face. "My little baby..."
Naruto tried desperately to escape, but it was of no use. Not even Kyuubi could help him, for his body was so weak, the demon's activated chakra would destroy it.
He suppressed a pained grunt as he was once again dumped roughly to the ground. A loud, crashing noise was erupting next to his ear; he couldn't keep his train of thought, and all plans for escape scattered like mice. He had been dumped next to a river.
"Th-this is where you belong, Kyuubi." Tears were still pouring down his cheek. The man's face was twisted in grief. He looked so ugly at that moment. Ugly for taking the pain of past tragedies out on what he knew was a being separate from the Kyuubi himself. Even through all the hate, he felt a sort of pity toward the man, and felt guilt for what happened to his family, though not for long as he was once again jabbed in the ribs. Naruto found himself rolled on to his stomach; his hands were pulled and tied behind his back with a rope of chakra. He lost patience.
"What the hell are trying to do to me, you old asshole?" He screamed, trying vainly to pull free. A hard clout across the face shut him up; the metallic taste of blood filled his mouth, and he knew then that all chances of escaping were slim.
The world no longer cared. He knew that the entire village-and that Haruno girl- would turn their backs on him as they had done for the past twelve years. If anyone passed by, they were not likely to aid him, only egg the man on further. Had it not been not for Kyuubi's ruthless disciplinary training, he would have burst hopelessly into tears a long time ago.
Now, he only felt anger. Kyuubi's anger, at the unjust treatment his host, his kitreceived by those who should be bowing before him on hands and knees. He wasking,dammit! He was ruler of all demons, and a low-class shinobi was all he needed to get killed. His parents were probably spinning in their graves right now.
"They let a monster like you into our academy, with our children. The Hokage insists that you are merely 'harmless' and 'misunderstood'. Tell me. Do you think he'll be saying that when find the throats of every one of our children slashed, as you did to my own? Blood will stain the streets of Konoha before he sees things our way. The council's way!"
Naruto turned his head away in barely suppressed anger. The man was obviously speaking on behalf of the entire village. Why was it that he never got a say in things? It was always the village this and the council that. And how dare he insult the old man?!
I have no voice, he thought bitterly. It was stolen from me the very minute I was given Kyuubi.
The man chuckled once more, his face the picture of hard-won happiness. The lines that creased his forehead disappeared momentarily. For just a second he resembled what must have been himself, twelve years ago, a young, successful man with the family he'd always dreamed of. Now a middle aged adult with no other desire than to take revenge on the one who tore that life away from him in an instant.
"Perhaps you will see things from my side after this." He held up a wriggling sack. "Now you will know what it's like to lose someone precious." The boy stiffened, recognizing the scent of what the sack contained. His worst fears came true when the shinobi turned it over, in doing so dropping a tiny fox kit on the soft grass. It's unusually large ears revealed that it was a fennec kit, no doubt one of Katsu's own offspring who had wandered too far from the den.
The little kit swayed on it's feet, then yelped as he was picked up roughly by the scruff of his neck. It's tail was tucked between his legs. "Mama..." It whispered as it dangled helplessly.
"Shut up." The terse reply was immediately followed by a hard blow that sent the tiny kit into a series of pained cries. The knock hadn't satisfied the man's thirst for revenge, for he merely yanked it up by the scruff of it's neck once more.
For the first time in a long time, Naruto's eyes slitted and turned red. How could he? Taking his anger out on an innocent creature was unforgivable. The chakra rope that bound his hands cut painfully into his wrists as he hurried to weaken it with his own chakra. The shinobi only grinned at his fruitless attempts to escape. And right in front of the demon container, he pulled out a small tachi blade from within his weapons pouch.
Unaware that another pair of eyes was watching the whole proceedings, Naruto watched as he held the whimpering kit high in the air so that the sun glinted through his soft sandy fur. He knew the poor animal was crying pitifully for it's mother, and almost couldn't bear to watch as it batted desperately at the air, hoping for some kind of salvation.
The silver blade flashed; before he could do anything, say something, the small blade was buried up to the hilt in the kit's neck. It's golden eyes were wide open, still full of the terror it felt in the last moments of it's life.
This time, he allowed tears of anger to course down his face as the man laughed and tossed the motionless body into a pile of bushes. A sick smile was fixed on his face as he once again approached the boy.
"You teme..." He ground out. For once, Kyuubi was silent, to overcome with grief at what they had just witnessed.
"That was for my suffering. This is for my family, and those that were murdered by you Kyuubi. Once you are gone, the Hokage will finally realize his mistake and repent for them. Begone!" And so, with a rough kick he sent the demon container into the rapids below. After watching for a few seconds the wretched man sunk to his knees, head buried in his hands as he sobbed uncontrollably. He was now an emotional wreck and for the time being presented no more harm.
Hinata watched, horrified as her love was swept away by the river's current. She was unable to hear anything the man said and so missed the reason why Naruto was being attacked in the first place. She had, at the last moment switched the fox kit with a substitute. The only thing the shinobi had managed to stab was her jacket, which had revealed it's true form when he threw it in the bushes. She cradled it soothingly to her chest.
"Naru-nii" He whimpered.
Hinata felt a stab of pain in her heart. Shivering, she turned pleadingly to the astral projection of her demon.
"Houkou, what-"
Go after him, pup. This is your chance to gain his trust...hurry, before it's too late!
Houkou's sharp words jolted her into focus. Already she had lay the kit down and was stripping off her sweatshirt, revealing the tight black training uniform female Hyuugas commonly wore. When she glanced back swiftly to look at the kit, it was gone. In the distance she saw a larger light brown fox running through a field, the kit dangling from her mouth.
This is my chance to help Naruto-kun...please be safe...
Without wasting any more time she launched herself into the water, trying desperately to go along the current without losing sight of the one she admired.
Naruto concentrated the demon's energy to the chakra rope that bound his hands. Feeling the fibers dissipate completely, he wildly flailed his arms, trying desperately to get his head above the surface. If there was one thing he was never good at, it was swimming. Kyuubi had felt it unnecessary to teach him how to swim until he was older; as such, that particular skill was still foreign to him. Somewhere far away he heard another splash. Was that crazy man going after him again?
Water filled his lungs as he gasped desperately for breath, silently cursing his demon for his lack of common sense. When his head finally broke the surface, he realized how far the water had taken him, to the southern area of the woods. Further down the river was a small break in the village walls that allowed the river water to pass through to the lands beyond. Unfortunately, the gap was large enough for a person to pass through and injure himself on the rocks on the other side.
Remember kit...keep moving your limbs...grab on to something!
"I-I'm trying to! Kyuubi!"
Two of his fingers snagged a tangled vine; mustering all his strength he thrust a hand through a loop in the knotted plant and puled himself slowly but surely out of the current. Kyuubi's yells of encouragement spurred him on.
Kyuubi's training had involved strenuous workouts that were meant to build up muscle. For the first time in his life, he felt grateful for that. He once again pulled on the vines and heard an audible 'snap'. The last thing he beheld was the section of vine that had broken off before his vision suddenly went dark.
He sensed the presence of another individual next to him; it may have been that shinobi, making sure that he was finished off. That same individual crashed alongside him in the swift current, ignoring the swipes he aimed at it. Suddenly, the presence disappeared. Something hard hit his head. For a second he tasted blood; then it disappeared as he felt his mind weaken, like the flickering flame of a dying candle. A minute passed before he sensed the presence of life again, this time beneath him. He was prepared to attack it once more when he felt something bump up against his bare chest. Before he could panic it lunged forward with a powerful stroke, buoying his head to the surface and swimming against the current. A new, intoxicating scent filled his nostrils, making him feel more lightheaded.
He was unable to see the young female that was with him, but he somehow knew she was a friend. Someone who was willing to save him. Taking a welcome breath of air Naruto let himself be pushed roughly to the bank and lay there for several minutes, noting that his rescuer was sprawled several feet away from him. Her breathing was erratic; she must have been exhausted.
Though Kyuubi's voice was too faint for him to hear anything he said, he felt strangely comforted by the harshness of it.
When he regained his sight, the first thing he did was take his first look at his benefactor. She lay on her side, one hand drawn to her chest and the other cushioning her head. Slowly, tentatively he reached out and brushed a few silky strands of midnight blue hair out of her face.
His breath hitched; never before had he seen a girl so beautiful she could compare to Haruno-san.
Naruto hesitated, then tugged her hand from her chest, face falling in dismay when he saw the long scratch he inflicted when he swiped at her. He sat back on his haunches, eyes narrowed in concentration. Something was oddly familiar about the girl.
I've seen her somewhere before...but that doesn't matter now. And I can't just leave her here...
Naruto knelt and gathered her still body into his arms. Almost immediately she buried her face in his bare chest, giving the boy cause to smile tenderly at her little actions.
His breathing slowed to an easy pace when he realized she was the source of the new scent.
Kit...Kyuubi rumbled, then went quiet. He hadn't expected to find it so soon, but it was right there in their arms.
The perfect mate for Naruto. Strong, brave, and beautiful. But both were much, much too young for anything too serious. His host needed a friend way more than a romantic partner for the time being.
Kyuubi growled appreciatively in the back of his mind as he planned ahead. He would have to more careful than ever. Now that he had her in his grasp, he was not letting her go. At least, not without a little reminder...
Kit...he growled so low his host couldn't hear him. One day, you shall thank me for this...I can guarantee that...
A brand of fire filtered through the unknowing containers palms and wound itself around the Hyuuga's stomach, finally ending as a spiral that surrounded her belly button. It faded after a few seconds.
Hinata sighed and buried her head further in his chest, causing a redness to rise to the boy's cheeks.
"Naruto-kun..." she whispered dreamily, her heartfelt tone reaching Kyuubi's satisfied ears only.
Where am I? Unh...my chest hurts...
The Hyuuga heiress sighed, then opened her eyes slowly, relishing the unusual feel of a thin blanket draped over her body.
She was bathed in dim light, but she didn't mind; she liked it that way.
A delicate hand rose; she wiped lazily at her eyes and yawned luxuriously before realizing that the bed she was on was not her own. What was worse was that someone else was occupying it as well.
She froze in fear, heart beating a mile a minute. When the truth slowly dawned on her, she nearly fainted from shock.
Oh...no...I'm in Naruto-kun's house...in Naruto-kun's bed...next to Naruto-kun... Her heart was beating so fast, she feared the sound of it's throbbing would wake him up. Quietly, so as not to disturb him, she slipped out of the bed and let out a sigh of relief when her feet touched the cold floor.
Father will punish me more if I come home late...but it would be rude to leave Naruto-kun now... She lingered uncertainly by the bed, uncertain of what to do. Maybe it was best if he forgot about her for now...for his own protection. For reasons unknown, Hiashi had always forbidden her from communicating with Naruto in any way, shape or form. Naturally, that aroused her own curiosity about him and only encouraged her to watch him.
Like now, for instance. He was a troublemaker at school, yet the way he was sleeping so peacefully made him look so innocent, so satisfied with life. But whether or not he was happy remained in question.
Her mind made up, Hinata somewhat regretfully left the room and walked through the small apartment, amazed that it was so tidy, especially at the fact that it was inhabited by a boy as young and rambunctious as Naruto. A small, fluffy stuffed fox caught her sight, looking rather lonely as it sat on the round kitchen table. Unable to resist, she picked it up gently and looked into it's big, amber eyes. It's fur was a fiery red, and a mischievous smirk reminded her of the cocky one worn by a certain blond. Allowing herself a shy smile she petted the tuft of fur on it's head for a few seconds.
This must be Naruto-kun's...why would he own a stuffed animal...? It didn't give any indication of answering.
"His name is Kyu."
Hinata jumped, then flushed a deep red as Naruto appeared in the doorway, yawning loudly. Embarrassed, she lay the fox on the table and stuttered an apology that he immediately waved aside. Then she noticed.
He wasn't wearing a shirt.
He either didn't notice it, or if he did, he didn't show it, but Naruto was unintentionally making the Hyuuga very nervous.
Completely oblivious to her fidgeting, he calmly strolled over to the table and picked up the fox.
"I found him on my doorstep a few years ago, and decided to keep him. Not that he does much."
"O-oh. I-I think he's very c-cute," she stuttered in reply, her voice soft and quiet.
"Yeah..." Naruto trailed off uncertainly. "Listen...I kinda want to thank you for...you know...saving me earlier on today." When she blushed even redder he briefly wondered if she was coming down with some sort of fever.
"I-it's nothing...ano...N-Naruto-kun? W-why did that m-man try to..." It was difficult to say. "Hurt you?" She looked up slowly to meet his startlingly blue eyes, then dropped her gaze again. Why is he not answering? Did I offend him? Worried that she might have touched upon a sensitive subject, she stuttered another apology and turned to leave when he lunged forward and seized her arm firmly.
He seemed to hesitate, then lowered his gaze to the ground, his fist, the grip on her arm tightening as he were holding on to some sort of pain. His eyes danced like blue flames, and a blanket of discomfort fell over the room. As the seconds slowly passed the eerie look passed his eyes, and he suddenly released her, as if he'd been burned. He looked a little guilty.
"I'm used to that kind of stuff, so it doesn't matter. Just...drop it."
Hinata felt her spirits dampen. Judging by the coarseness of his voice, it mattered to him a great deal.
"Ano...excuse me for p-prying...but w-why do you not ask a-anyone for help?"
Naruto frowned. "I said it doesn't matter, it's no big deal at all...I don't any help either."
"B-but that man nearly k-killed you, N-Naruto-kun. A-and...everybody n-needs help s-sometimes. I..." She glanced down and prodded her fingers nervously. "I s-sometimes need help..." she finished quietly.
"You're saying things as if you know what I'm going through...you have no idea." Naruto ignored the curses Kyuubi was throwing at him for saying something so stupid. Here was someone who actually had thenerve to suggest that he was incapable of taking care of himself. That was enough to merit as a personal insult.
Insulting a fox was a very foolish thing to do.
Hinata stepped back warily. This was not what she'd intended.
"You have no idea what it's like to take crap from the entire every single person in the village. You're one of those Hyuugas, right?" When she nodded, wide-eyed he continued his brutal assault. "You're the last person to be giving me advice, then, you who was born with a silver spoon in her mouth and a family that gives a damn. You've had the easy life, so why should you care?"
All pity for him melted away; before she could stop herself Hinata rounded on him, blinded by her own anger to heed Houkou's warnings to keep her temper.
"And what gives you the right to make automatic assumptions about a person because of how they were born? What gives you the right to even glorify the fact that you've been suffering without regarding the situations of another? That is very selfish, Naruto-kun, and you of all people should know that. There are always others who are worse off, so don't go looking for pity because in the end, you're just as bad as the people that make your life miserable!" She stopped for breath, then stared at him, wondering what on earth came over her. Already she looked apologetic.
Naruto glared coldly at the girl before turning around and opening a cupboard.
"I don't want to talk about it, so just drop the subject...and leave." He murmured tensely, pulling down a packet of instant ramen. He didn't want to lose his temper again. The next time he did, both he and Kyuubi knew it would be directed at her. His request came too late; to his annoyance she had already started leaving, and had paused, hand on the doorknob as she listened. When he finished, she hesitated before opening the door.
"U-um...I a-apologize for n-not minding my business, N-Naruto-kun...but I w-won't apologize for what I said...a-and...I hope things get...b-better for you..." Kyu's sewn-on smirk seemed to grin more widely. Hinata's bottom lip quivered as if she were about to cry. Without waiting for an answer she slipped out, leaving the kitsune vessel alone in the dark once more. Naruto continued to stare numbly after her as she left. He couldn't explain it, but he felt a sudden impulse to run after her. He shook his head and turned back to his ramen.
You're an idiot, you know.
Leave me alone, Yoko...I'm not in the mood... With an impatient flick of the wrist he turned on the faucet and let the thin stream of water splash inside a small pot.
Your feelings are worth nothing to me at the moment, kit...sheesh. Give him a friend and what does he do? Chase her away...huh!
Naruto, in the midst of tearing open the ramen packet with his teeth, froze. "A friend?" he asked aloud. "Nah...something has to be wrong with her if she wants to be friends with me." A downhearted sigh followed as he set the pot of water on the stove.
Maybe, kit...who knows?
Ok, I couldn't resist, but I hadto get this out before someone else did. Personally, I don't like the idea of a NaruHarem story because they seem offensive towards women, but I might as well try something new every once in a while. Although, I'm not that ready to write a yaoi or yuri yet. I will update my other stories, and I will not start a new one until I have finished one of them. By the way, I want to make clear that this will most likely not end as a NaruHarem, so I want you all to vote either in a review or on my profile. There will be NaruHina as well. So which would you prefer as the final pairing?
NaruHina- This ismy favorite couple after all.
Or
HinaHarem- Hinata having a bunch of guys to love her seems very appealing to me, and besides, Naruto will be in it, so it's still a win/win situation. It will include either guys from the rookie nine or members of the Akatsuki.
And as for NaruHarem...I'm still open for suggestions. And another thing to make clear: If you are here only to read hardcore threesome lemons with no substance whatsoever, you can get the hell out of here. This is a romance story, not a bunch of mindless, dirty garbage.
Love you all, and I hope you like the first part. If not, I'll just end it after about ten chapters.
Narutochica :3
Useless trivia: In this story, I decided to make Kyuubi a fennec fox, due to the fact that his large ears are similar to the foxes of that breed. Another reason is because fennec foxes live in groups called harems, with one alpha male, one omega male of a lower status, and a number of vixens that mate only with the alpha. So, you can see the resemblance it has to this story.