The shadows that played their way over Konoha's streets were long, their tendrils snatching the warmth from the air. Above these dark corridors the moon hung, lifeless as the streets over which it watched. Well…the streets were not completely devoid of life. One solitary shadow stands alone from the rest, slowly drifting towards the leaf village's main gate.

The figure from which this shadow is cast has its head hung low, the front most spikes of its obtrusively yellow hair covering its face in shadow. The words of hundreds of civilians ricochet through the young mans mind, driving him on.

"freak…."

"Monster!!"

"…Stay away demon!!"

"Why are you here? Your not Wanted Kyuubi!"

Against his will tears spill forth, making audible plopping noises as they hit the pavement.

Of course he could handle the everyday words of Konoha's civilians, he had done so his whole life.

It was the words of a certain pink haired Kunoichi that had forced his decision.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A triumphant smile covered his face as Naruto hauled an unconscious Uchiha through the gates of Konoha.

However the reception he received was not the one he expected.

*WHACK*

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO MY SASUKE YOU MONSTER!!!" screamed Sakura as her fist connected with Naruto's head.

The worn out ninja could only look up in shock as the ingrate Kunoichi tenderly scooped the raven-haired boy into her arms and carried him away.

He was left with nothing but the scornful gazes of the villagers… and the tear filled gaze of a lavender eyed Kunoichi, hidden behind a nearby tree.

"…why…?" was the last thought that ran through his head as he drifted into unconsciousness. Lavender eyes watched on as Naruto's spiky haired, masked Sensei swiftly snatched him from the encroaching mob.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Naruto shook his head violently, trying to dispel the memory. He passed through the main gate and moved on into the shadow of the forest.

Unbeknownst to him another, smaller, shadow detaches itself from a nearby wall a darts after him in pursuit. Thus was the Exodus of Naruto Uzumaki.