Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto.

xXx

People love life. Even the most evil, callous person to draw breath realizes its value, even if the only value placed is on their own. It is this love of life that gives many strength. The strength to overthrow rulers, to lift immense weights, and even to run at an enemy. People love life, and people want to live and see their loved ones alive.

There is another side to this. A fear. Because, however many lessons, however many practices there are, there is only one real truth.

Death makes cowards of all.

It is this trait that causes the ANBU to train their agents so harshly.

"Please," gasps the woman, too weary and breathless to do more than beg. "Please, please, please."

Her hand reaches for the ANBU's wrist, not attempting to force it, just an appeal. Grant mercy.

"Please, please," she repeats, eyes wide with fear. Tears and snot mix freely with dirt and blood. "Please."

The ANBU says nothing, just reaches for the woman's head and professionally snaps her neck.

The scenery bends and wavers, and the body fades out of existence.

The ANBU doesn't move as another ANBU steps up behind him. "That was the last. Excellent work. Report for your first mission in two days."

He leaves, and the two other presences in the clearing respectfully fade away as they follow their leader. They know what comes next; they've all done it.

When he's sure they are gone, the ANBU falls to his knees and rips off his black training mask. It is just barely missed as Hyuuga Neji vomits up his last meal. Even after his stomach is empty, he heaves for nearly twenty minutes, until he shakes so badly he can barely lift himself up from the shock.

But he does, and he manages to walk to a tree that he leans against exhaustedly. His white eyes are red with strain and tears, so he closes them, and nearly heaves again at the picture he sees behind them.

It will be weeks before he will be able to look at them. Even after that, he will never be able to forget. The feeling of power as he twists around his guard, grabbing green spandex and pulling to feel his fist crack that stubborn jaw. The dirty, filthy fulfillment as he uses the sixty-four hands against her, just moments after he blinded her gentle white eyes. The disconnect as he blows away her summoned weapons and used them against her before he crushes her windpipe with his bare hands.

But even now as he breaks under the tree, a new white mask is resting beside him, proof of his ability.

Ansatsu Senjustsu Tokushu Butai

Welcome to ANBU.

xXx

Comments and critique are greatly appreciated.