Challenge of our Comrade Circle
Kickers-ej
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or his comrades.
Test 1: myth over fact
The curse spanned into 4 generations.
Spurred from the deadly rivalry between the first emperor with his greatest warrior of the Uchiha lineage, which at that time, was the most influential family, the gods decided that in order for the dynasty to be prosperous, a chosen leader had to be supported by a noble lineage.
By a willing life sacrifice.
With this sacrifice, the gods gave their word that the land will not be put through extreme hardships and at the same time bind the emperor into serving his people. Sacrifice will be done in a ceremony attended by the gods themselves, and as the next emperor come into age, should there be no willing sacrifice, the land will be put into great peril and the people will suffer incurable infectious disease.
The first emperor, had his nomination through the sacrifice of his rival, whom despite intense rivalry, was willing to give his life in order for the land to be well off. This sacrifice was out of respect, and the gods accepted it.
The second emperor, nominated by his own noble family, where his brother willingly sacrificed himself so that the people will have a worthy leader. The sacrifice was out of duty, and the gods accepted.
The third emperor, did not wish for any life to be sacrificed in his name, and so the land suffered hardships, but the people loved him for his strong will and courage. But at the end of his time, the third did not wish for his children to suffer the same fate as he did, therefore he sacrificed himself when his successor came of age. The sacrifice was out selflessness, and so the gods accepted it.
And the fourth emperor, having his emperorship recommended by the previous emperor, led a very wealthy land and had generous harvest because the gods dote on him so. They blessed him with a son, whom showed great potential in becoming an emperor himself. The fourth however, was worried about his son's recommendation because even though his son was loved by all of his people, surely he will not ask for a sacrifice in his sake. And that would mean a generation of peril for his kingdom. To increase his chances of getting a willing sacrifice, the fourth increased the number of noble families into his kingdom, so that they may befriend his son and find it in their hearts to sacrifice themselves for the future.
And so, the story begins…
"Hinata~ you should introduce your cute cousin to us," Ino and Sakura pestered the young Hyuuga heir, while the girl blushed at the premise of putting her Neji-niisan in such peril.
Her Neji-niisan was gay after all. She couldn't stop giggling when her father and his twin brother caught Neji kissing little Gaara during their 8th year of living, and when confronted, Neji told that Gaara was the one who initiated it.
And he replied because he hated losing. Of course, they had nothing against this sort of adventure, and if the Sabaku youngling was interested in Neji, they would welcome him with open arms. The Sabaku clan was a powerful one, and the merge may even be as strong as the Uchiha.
The next day, Gaara's father came with a blushing Gaara in tow, bearing an engagement ring. The merge was set. But even then they knew with the merge they still couldn't rival the Uchiha's influence.
Since the beginning, the sacrifice made by Uchiha eldest for the first emperor placed them as the top noble family in the Konoha dynasty. The Uchiha's contribution then continued on by providing the best fighters and generals in the royal army. Many was baffled why the Uchiha's themselves didn't want to become the emperor, but none voiced out their concern. The stakes rose considerably when Uchiha Obito became trusted friend and student of the fourth, and during the fifth generation, the Uchiha became an all time high. Their prodigy Uchiha Itachi was knighted as the youngest noble to become a general, graduating from his lessons 5 years earlier than the average student.
And then there was Uchiha Sasuke. The most beautiful boy ever to be born in the dynasty. Immediately, since the boy was 5 years old, many nobles were keen on marrying their sons or daughters to young Sasuke.
And when they were rejected, the fathers tried to ask for Sasuke themselves. Only to face a protective older brother who looked as if he would fry anyone who dared to think of his younger brother in indecent ways.
Yes, Uchiha Itachi was royally pissed when men and women, young and old, began to woo his brother for their personal means. And so the only way for him to watch over his innocent brother, was to reject being a general and decided to become a trainer to get more free time.
It also didn't help that Sasuke was invited to be in the comrade circle of the fourth's young son, Uzumaki Naruto.
Uzumaki Naruto was an expert in gaining friends. His smile alone would melt the coldest of ice, and his touch keep nightmares at bay. Naruto started his circle with none other than Sasuke, the two immediately declared their rivalry when Naruto saw that the girl he liked was in love with the Uchiha youngling. With Sasuke in the circle, Haruno Sakura and Yamanaka Ino joined in. both came from noble lineage as well.
With Ino, she dragged Nara Shikamaru and Akimichi Chouji, her friends since childhood due to their father's close bond. Nara dragged Inuzuka Kiba, his pranking buddy, who in turn dragged Aburame Shino and Hyuuga Hinata. Hinata, called her Neji-niisan whom at that time was with Rock Lee and Izumi Tenten.
And so these kids were in Naruto's circle of friends, each one from noble families. The fourth, Minato Namikaze was happy with this progress. Friendship was the first step in becoming a leader. He also knew that Naruto would rather die than let his friends die, and that would be his strong point.
He still hoped that someone was willing to sacrifice themselves for the sake of the people.
It was during the fifteenth summer that Naruto felt the pressure of becoming an emperor. It was his goal since little to become one, and protect Konoha so that everyone can lead happy lives. He also knew the consequence of becoming one and the life that was needed in order for the gods to approve of his successorship.
His coming of age was coming soon and he still couldn't find it in his heart to ask one of his friends to sacrifice themselves for him. He would be glad to give his life for one of his friends, but the only one that he could think that was suitable would be Sasuke.
But god! He hated the Uchiha with his whole being! Not only does the Uchiha spend his time infuriating him, as soon as Naruto tried to touch the young heir he would retract himself like he was cooties! Naruto never felt more frustrated in his life.
It's bad enough that Sasuke always calls him usuratonkachi and dobe, and his eyes ware always cold when he's addressing him. But Naruto couldn't find it in his heart to send Sasuke away. Because believe it or not, Naruto respected the young Uchiha. Not only is Sasuke a good warrior, but Sasuke always listen to Naruto's rant, even though by the end he would scoff and didn't say anything back in return.
And then there was this incident with the training session. Haku was training using needles when he accidentally chucked them in the wrong direction, where Sasuke and Naruto was sparring. Naruto realized the danger too late, and when he braced himself for the impact, none came. He opened his eyes to see Sasuke in front of him with needles sticking everywhere, and he swore that his heart stopped beating.
It was also the first time that he was introduced to Uchiha Itachi, young genius (sociopath) extraordinaire. Naruto gladly took the mental torture as Itachi warped him with the dreaded mangekyou, and even begged his father to not take action.
Cause he deserved it after putting Sasuke in danger. And since then, Naruto felt awkward with Sasuke, staying a bit further when they were together. Of course, Sasuke took it as Naruto being bored with him; therefore he lashed out to return the favour.
Their friendship was on strain ever since.
And Naruto, mistaking Sasuke's harsh treatment for hate when all the Uchiha wanted was to make Naruto noticed him more made it harder for both of them.
A month before Naruto's coming of age; his circle met and discussed the possibility. Neither was ready to sacrifice their life for Naruto's sake, and the ones that were willing had responsibilities toward their families. Most of them were an only child, and was needed to continue on the clan lineage. Sasuke took in the argument and made his own decision. He was the second born in his family, and his brother would certainly be chosen to be the heir. Their father obviously liked Itachi more, seeing that he always gives Sasuke the cold shoulder.
But Sasuke really wished that he could stay and be by Naruto's side. All he ever wanted was to help Naruto become emperor and maybe he could be his right hand man. It would be impossible now, since Naruto hate him so. Sasuke clambered to Naruto's chambers, where he knew the man would reside.
"Sasuke," Naruto was stunned seeing his best friend (maybe) there. The Uchiha slinked in, shutting the door behind. He will try at least one more time before making his decision.
"Naruto, I want you to kiss me,"
Naruto sputtered after hearing the request. Was Sasuke on drugs?!
"What~! WHY?!" Naruto was seriously thinking of calling for his Tsunade-obachan, and see if she could check up on the Uchiha.
"Please, just do it…for me," Sasuke closed the gap between their torsos, and Naruto gulped when he felt the heat radiating from the Uchiha. He always wondered what kissing Sasuke would be like…
Gently, Naruto brushed his lips across Sasuke's pliant ones, gasping as his stomach made an awful lurch. Heat soared in his body as his spine felt like it had turned into jelly. Naruto pushed Sasuke away forcefully.
"That was awful!" Naruto whined and wiped his mouth, it still felt tingly from the very brief touch. What was happening to him?!
Naruto never noticed Sasuke's solemn expression, and was too late in stopping the Uchiha from leaving his room.
And possibly, his life.
Minato watched in apprehension as the nobles gathered. Naruto was seated beside him, while the gods had already descended onto their pedestal, watching the crowd. Naruto was smiling, but couldn't help but to seek out Sasuke. While he was busy figuring out how to respond to the kiss, Sasuke had already left.
That bastard. He was probably challenged to do it, and after he got what he came for, he didn't even explain why. Naruto was sure to hunt the bastard down and give him a good beating.
The gods rose and addressed the nobles.
"We are here for Uzumaki Naruto, who has come of age as of today…will the sacrifice made their presence known?"
The nobles were deathly quiet, each expecting the other to sacrifice one of their own. Naruto assured his friends through his smile, that whatever the god's anger might bring them because of no sacrifice, Naruto would be there to bear the burden. Minato, and the crowd, grew restless.
"Oh? No one? And here I thought Naruto was a worthy emperor,"
"Then, if no one is willing…we have to take back our power over Konoha, and you will be subjected to disasters…,"
"I will do it!"
Naruto's heart stopped when he heard the familiar voice offering himself as sacrifice. He couldn't believe his eyes!
Sasuke stood before the pedestal, in white cloth, in complete surrender.
The Uchiha clan was enraged by this development, and Mikoto, Sasuke's mother immediately sent for her husband and son, who were on a job in the neighbouring country.
"Sasuke! Do not be foolish!"
"Come back here young man!"
"Stop this madness!"
Naruto stood, and was about to pummel the bastard for pulling a stupid stunt, when his father stopped him.
"Naruto, we are in presence of the gods, do not act brash," Naruto glared at his father but took heed, but that didn't mean he was helpless.
"BASTARD! GET BACK! WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING!!??" Sasuke looked up to see Naruto distressed, along with something he couldn't fathom. It looked as if those blue eyes were scared…but that couldn't be it! It must be hate!! Sasuke clenched his fist, he will do it. No one else was willing!
"IF YOU DON'T BACK DOWN RIGHT NOW.."
"I HATE YOU NARUTO!"
Naruto snapped his attention towards the young Uchiha. The boy didn't even face him when he said that. Sasuke really hated him?! So the kiss didn't mean anything! Clenching his teeth, Naruto felt rage swelled within.
If Sasuke hated him that he preferred dying than seeing him, so be it!
"FINE! SACRIFICE YOURSELF!" Naruto got down from his throne and left. Left Sasuke behind.
Sasuke felt his resolve strengthen with every step that Naruto made. Naruto stopped trying to persuade Sasuke after he said he hated Naruto. The feeling must be mutual. And the kiss…Naruto was repulsed by it.
Repulsed by Sasuke.
Sasuke felt a sob choking him. All of his feelings, unreturned.
He was glad he decided to do this. If he couldn't be with Naruto when he became emperor, then at least his life would protect Konoha from harm.
The gods looked at each other, and then grinned in secrecy.
"We shall begin,"
Naruto locked his room as he knocked all the ornament down from his cabinets. He picked up his chair and swung it at his mirror.
How dare he! How dare Sasuke say that he hated Naruto in public!
Well, he'll get what he wants. Naruto was not even going to care.
So why did his heart felt as if it was clenched? Smoothing the area above it, Naruto stared at the spot on the floor…until he felt tears slip pass his cheeks.
"Why…am I crying?" rubbing furiously, his tears fell like rain drops, staining the carpet a darker color in their wake.
"This is all that bastard's fault! Hahaha," and then the gravity of the situation fell upon him. He was never going to see Sasuke again.
After today, he would be emperor, protecting Konoha.
But Sasuke isn't in Konoha.
He would be dead.
Rushing to the ceremony, Naruto wished he could make it in time.
Mikoto watched as the gods extracted Sasuke's life and fed it to the Kyuubi.
A manifestation of the life sacrifice and the god's aide, Kyuubi was born when the first sacrifice was made, and his state reflects the dynasty's state. When he was happy, there will be sunshine, and when he was sad, it would rain. He retreats back into the forest once the ceremony was over until the next emperor was chosen.
Every coming of age Kyuubi would gather the life force, and tell the gods what state the force was in. So far, the most delicious had been the third's, with selflessness fuelling his purpose. He suspected that this time would be out of duty or respect, but the taste was slightly different.
Unable to bear witness of such a cruel fate, Mikoto fainted, leaving the Uchiha with another thing to worry about. They had all seen the effects of no sacrifice, and while Sasuke was a favourite, they couldn't help but feel it was their duty to respect his wishes.
Sasuke was feeling weaker by the minute. The altar in which he lain was surrounded by the circle, each clearly saddened by his action. But as nobles they understood the burden, as it was everybody's duty to serve the dynasty. Sasuke was happy that his friends were there.
I wish you were here Naruto. I wish I could see your face one last time.
Sasuke extended his hand, hoping that somehow, Naruto would grasp it. The circle watched perplexed. Why is Sasuke's hand like that?
You're not going to catch my hand?
Sasuke felt his hand become heavier, and just when the limb was about to fall back to his side, a tan hand grasped it, and pulled him to a strong chest. In his weakened state, Sasuke saw blue orbs, and gave a dishearten smirk. His senses were leaving him now…
"Please! I beg you, stop this!" Naruto was shouting, but the gods were too absorbed in their work that they couldn't hear him.
"PLEASE!" a hand on his cheek stopped Naruto's beg.
An emperor should not beg.
Pulling Naruto towards him, Sasuke was about to give a final kiss, and saw Naruto leaning in. The hand on Naruto's face tightened, and the gap became miniscule. Naruto closed his eyes and wait for Sasuke to close the gap.
But their lips never touched. Naruto then realized that the hand holding his face had become limp. Snapping his eyes open, Naruto realized that the gods were gone, and Kyuubi hastily retreated, without telling what state the life was in. He turned to look at the bundle in his arms.
Sasuke lay motionless in his arms, the breathing had ceased. Naruto gently shook Sasuke, in his mind Sasuke would wake up and yell "DOBE!"
His actions caused Sasuke's head to turn sideways, where Naruto could see a single tear had trailed down Sasuke's perfect cheek.
"AAAAAARRRRRRGGGGGHHHH!!" sobbing hysterically, Naruto hugged his bastard close, ignoring the panic cries for his name. He kissed the pale lips over and over, only to realize how cold they were.
His Sasuke was never coming back.
Never.
Hiya! Sorry bout this guys...I know I should be working on super spiral and parenting....but just one minor detour ok? RnR please~