Chapter 2 of Naruto: Claymore Number 48
Naruto stood in a large forest clearing alone not to far from his camp. The blond swordsman was able to wake up an hour before the sun painted the sky, ate breakfast and took a well needed bath.
The day was warm, inviting and soothing, and the sounds of wildlife played all around him.
Mentally he was in deep concentration as he focused his sword stance. Naruto wore a black high collar shirt with no sleeves, black fingerless gloves, black boots and baggy pants.
Slowly, Naruto allowed his body to move from lightly. Performing his daily exercises that Trace had practically pounded into his skull; literally. His massive blade was held with meticulousness, and was wielded with grace as he slashed and hacked at invisible enemies.
His movements were light, calm, steady and free. But his swings held power, balance and aggressiveness. His breathing was steady, despite the fact that the blade itself was slightly larger then the wielder, but he really didn't mind.
Normal sized swords didn't really cut the bill for him, since they never felt comfortable or would even feel awkward in his hands. But this sword felt perfect, absolutely perfect.
Naruto made sure that with each swing, he switched to a different blade. Almost immediately connecting and disconnecting blades with each shift. He'd gained much experience with each and never favored one over the other.
Naruto was always taught that he should broaden and expand his horizon, and never settle at just specializing at one thing and never settle for second best. Always be confident and do the best to your ability.
'One must know the fundamentals, to reveal the essence of all things' Naruto thought to himself, remembering the last words of his adopted father. The blond still didn't know the full measures of his potential, being stuck in a village full of scared idiots and all.
But he knew that if he travelled with Clare, he would continue to grow, mature. Heck he may even be able to spar with her when he got to know more deeply.
Though he did question how he would match up in a fight against Clare or anyone like her. From what he'd seen yesterday and back at his village, Clare was amazingly strong. Her wispy and frail like body was anything but weak, and it was the perfect disguise to hide her monstrous strength since she was easily able to cut off limbs with ease.
She seemed very skilled and was able to strategize perfectly underneath pressure, though he found that there was still room for improvement for the young woman. But he believed that currently at his level, he would be able to give her a really tough time. Even if he did lose in the process, at least he would lose knowing he was defeated by an even stronger opponent.
Though it was simply motivate him to push himself well beyond the limits of his current abilities.
"What exactly are you doing?" Naruto turned his head towards the voice, and a large smile was on his face. Clare stood with her arms crossed over her chest. Her eyes were stern and leveled on him.
Naruto found Clare to be rather fascinating, mainly because at first glance one would find her to be cold, distant and even a solitary figure. But when he spoke to her last night, and he saw that effort of a smile, he couldn't help but feel that it was a small baby step of a change.
Not really big steps mind you, but one that made him feel really happy. He couldn't really explain it to himself, but just looking at her simply made him want to give a huge smile. Then there was a weird, warm pleasant feeling he'd get from being around her. He liked this feeling.
He already made a plan to learn more about her on their travels, to that he counted on it. Naruto really didn't mind that she was cold and distanced on the outside; he'd accept her no matter what.
The idea of breaking the ice burg that was Clare simply made him beam with excitement mentally, but for now he would have to take it step by step.
Naruto gave Clare a sheepish grin, while scratching the back of his head. "Well you see I figured that I'd get a little exercise for the long journey ahead. I didn't want to wake you because I didn't want to die so young." He jested and gave a little laugh, mainly because he figured if he tried to waker her she would have decapitated him.
Clare didn't laugh, instead she rolled her eyes. "Whatever, we're leaving now. Pack up and lets ago unless you want me to leave you behind" she replied coldly before turning on her heel and leaving.
Naruto simply shook his head while connecting the corresponding fusion swords in their proper place, before following dashing off to catch up. He came upon the camp and found Clare waiting for him on the outposts with furrowed brows, so Naruto quickly grabbed the small pack near the now dead fire and followed behind Clare.
Heading on their way.
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Eight hours had passed since Clare followed by Naruto had followed won the gritty dirt path. The sun beating down on their heads; though was occasionally covered by the cloudy sky.
I'm so glad I wore boots for this trip, Naruto lamented as he wiped the sweat off of his brow. He really and truly couldn't figure out for the life of him how Clare was actually able to do this for a living. If this didn't gain his respect for what she had to go through to do her job, he didn't know what would.
He was a bit tired, but not enough to stop when they were so close anyway.
Both had been walking in silence for some time. Naruto's eyes drifted towards Clare who didn't look the least bit winded. Her eyes were focused and stern. To be honest the blond male swordsman couldn't even imagine what was going through her mind, but whatever it was, it had to do something with that card.
That card shook her to the very core of her being, Naruto had never seen a woman's face so pale and pained. Rubel only told that the card was called the black card of death, but he never fully explained what exactly it all entailed to.
"Clare, there's something I need to ask you," Naruto spoke, breaking the silence. "Last night when you got that card, you seemed really freaked out. That guy didn't really give a whole lot of details about it, except the name and that it was very important. But it was enough to make even you pale at the sight of it. Please, tell me, what is it that they are forcing you to do?"
Naruto looked at her intently, wanting and needing to find out just exactly was going on. Clare abruptly stopped in her steps and there was complete silence for a moment, finally, she turned towards him. "No one is forcing me to do anything, Naruto. However, today I am given the task to eliminate someone you would call a Claymore"
Naruto was shocked. He looked at her to see if she was joking, but her face held firm and stern. Clare's features made her seem so much older than she looked, and it pained him to see her this way. He wanted to reach out to her, to ask her why she had to do this.
But she simply turned away from him. "You… do know that we're half monster, right?" Naruto shivered at the coldness in her voice, but gave a nod of the head. Did she think that he would see her differently, despite what she was? "I already know that Clare, I told you that doesn't matter to me at all, really" he assured her completely.
But Clare simply shook her blond head. "I know, but you don't fully understand what I mean. In our bodies we hold the powers of a Yoma and control it with our human consciousness, which preserves and protects our identities. In a way, we're monsters with only human heads. That's why people call us half human, half monster.
"Even though we're half breeds, we side with humanity to kill Yomas. Before we even existed, humanity was powerless against the Yoma. They were stronger, faster and smarter than them, but, by taking the powers and using it against them, they were finally able to defeat them. We are humanity's only hope. However, there is one drawback,"
Drawback, what the hell is she talking about? Naruto questioned mentally, listening intently to her. "Half breeds… eventually become full blown monsters" she finally spoke.
Clare had expected him to cringe and cower in fear, like any normal person. But instead his eyes held sympathy and understanding. "I… I think I understand what you're saying, but I still don't understand Clare. If what you're saying is true, then why…
"If we were allowed to live like normal people this wouldn't happen, Naruto. But you have to understand the more we use the strength and abilities of our Yoma sides, the closer we are to becoming monsters. It's like a tug of war between our human mind and side, and our yoma bodies. At some point, the yoma side eventually eats away our human minds and we become full blown yoma's.
Clare then began to explain the system that the organization had created, in pertaining to the black card. Inside the hilts of each sword that each hybrid carried with them held a black card. Each one held a unique symbol and signified the rank amongst each member, and was only sent to someone who the sender considered close to them.
The warrior then travels to a place where the sender wishing to die is waiting. Upon arriving, the recipient then destroys her. Naruto was absolutely horrified by the news Clare was now telling him since he guessed that it was somehow important, and was maybe related to Yoma's.
But to given the responsibility to kill your own best friend, simply shocked Naruto to the very fiber of his being. Despite the fact that Clare assured him that being presented with a black card was to be considered a sign of respect and trust.
He felt his stomach roll and licked his lips to dampen them. To be quite honest he was sickened by this, but did his best not to show it. Though immediately he realized something in her explanation. "Clare, tell me, who sent you this card?" his voice was full of concern and bits or worry.
Number 47 was about to explain, but stopped. Another presence was in the area and she could sense it, causing her head to turn in the designated area.
Naruto realized that something caught her attention, and darted his eyes in the same direction as she did. His eyes widened in surprise at the sight. Before his eyes laid a very unnaturally beautiful woman who was the same height as Clare, with silver flowing hair framing her heart shaped face and slight pale skin.
The woman simply ran her gaze towards the party, instantly recognizing Clare. A smile graced her lips. "It's been a long time hasn't it, Clare?" the blacksmith nearly flinched, her voice sounded so… so kind and gentle. Was this the person Clare was supposed to destroy?
"Elena," Her name came out her throat bravely. "You… haven't changed… you look like you did back then. I… I thought you would have looked more… distorted."
A sad smile graced Elena's face. "I'm forcing it back Clare… to meet you. How long has it been? It feels like time has passed so quickly, but it feels like only yesterday. Back then there was so much pain, and the darkness nearly swallowed us both whole. But because of you, Clare, I was able to remember the good times"
The blond warrior had to bite his lips to stop his body from trembling. This was wrong, it was just so wrong. But he needed to be strong, if not for himself, the at least for Clare. But why was it so hard? Why did it hurt so much?
Elena's voice and words sliced into his heart like a dagger in the night as he listened to her. "I… started this job after you, Clare. I thought that taking on the powers of a Yoma would give me strength. But, to control it, one needs a strong human heart to control this power."
Instantly her face became slightly distorted before their very eyes. Veins began to bulge in her head and body, her grip on her blade tightened so much that they both thought the handle would have broken underneath the strain.
All the while her serene and heartfelt smile never faded. Tears fell heavily down her cheeks as she looked at her oldest and dearest friend. "Please, Clare. I ask of you one final request, as my one true friend. Please, end my life, while my heart is still human" her voice still held on to her humanity.
Elena could already feel her inner Yoma within her beginning to take control of her body, and she was using every ounce of will power to push it away. If only for a few minutes, her sword fell with a clang and she began to walk towards Clare.
As she cleared the distance, both women stared at each other face to face. From this position Clare could feel the yoki within her beginning to spike, and was beginning to go out of control. Signaling that she was going to turn at any moment now.
Elena wrapped her arms around her friend's neck, embracing her like any good friend would do to one another. "Clare…" she spoke softly, but was cut off violently.
The blond swordsman felt his heart stop, his breathing stop. It was as if in that moment time simply stopped for him, he could see it before his very eyes right now. But his mind couldn't comprehend that it actually did happen.
Clare returned the friendly gesture, while piercing her stomach easily with her blade. Elena let out a small gasp, her small hands made fists on Clare's clothing. But she could feel her body was going limp, her vision was starting to go blurry from the amount of blood that was pouring out of her.
Clare looked down watching the blood drain down her lips, staining her teeth with a purplish red. Already she was giving her last smile. "Thank you… Clare" she gasped in spasms, but rubbed her cheek affectionately one last time. "Now… I can finally die… as a human"
Naruto's legs simply gave out underneath him not being able to handle the wobbly sensations in his body. His tear streaked face looked at Clare, expecting some sign, or some hint of emotion for what she had done. But there was nothing in her silver eyes.
Why… why did she have to die? Naruto thought to himself desperately. He knew that Clare had already explained to him about what she needed to do, but to actually see it with his own two eyes was so much to take in.
Hot, warm tears fell from his eyes, and trickled down his cheek. Despite the fact that he willed them to stop, his hand clenched into a fist and slammed in the dirt. Damn it, why did she have to die!
BAM! His fist connected with the earth with a solid blow, not at all having any effect. Save the small fist sized hole underneath.
It's not right!!
BAM! It connected again, despite the fact that the skin was bruised and was beginning to be torn away. Already he could hear Clare telling him to stop. But he didn't listen; he was angry, so very angry that… that… it hurt.
IT'S NOT FAIR!!!
CRACK! Naruto hissed an intake of breath as he gave a small yelp of pain; a dark blue bruise appeared on the back of his wrist and blood poured down his arm. Even though he had never met the woman or even knew her personally, he could tell by the sound of her voice that she was a good and kind natured person. So much so that she accepted her own death, without showing any fear of dying.
"Naruto," Clare said sympathetically, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "Stop, before you damage yourself even more"
She could feel his body shivering like a leaf in the breeze, but under her touch he instantly stopped. His breathing was shallow and his voice was hoarse, and he simply couldn't help but ask.
Did she really truly have to die?
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Naruto couldn't help but stare at the claymore that was fixed firmly into the ground. Marking the resting place of Elena.
The man didn't even bother to ask who Elena was, since he'd caught onto mostly what they were both saying. He felt that it wasn't any of his business and he had no right to ask, had no right to know.
But, there was a question he needed to as. Something that he really, truly needed to know for himself.
"Clare," Naruto finally spoke. His eyes never left the massive Claymore that marked Elena's grave. "The process used to make you what you are now, to transform you into a half yoma, was it really painful?"
At first there was no answer for a few moments. But Clare simply closed her eyes "Yes, the operation was unimaginably painful, so much so that it made sleep next to impossible. But Elena was there for me, and together we both comforted each other through the pain. From then on, she was my only friend"
The words made Naruto shut his eyes tight; disgust was readable on his face. He couldn't even bare to imagine what it was like to do something like that to a woman, much less a little girl. The idea simply made him sick to his stomach, bile rose to his throat. But he simply nodded in assurance and pushed it back.
Despite the fact that he was calm on the outside after shedding tears foe Elena, on the inside he was greatly distraught. Distraught because this was what had to be, and needed to be done and it just wasn't right! He honestly didn't know why he reacted the way he did for Elena, but he couldn't deny the weird ache in his chest, like he was left empty and cold for the entire world to see.
If Elena and Clare didn't have to fight Yomas, didn't have to risk there lives for people who wouldn't even give them the recognition and appreciation they deserved, then he really truly hated humanity. Naruto hated humanity for forcing this cruel bloody fate on them.
His tears ran dry and spent; his felt physically and emotionally exhausted, Clare could tell by the way he wobbled slightly, despite that she didn't show it. She really and truly was worried about him, and most of all his safety. "Naruto, are you ready to go?
He cleared his throat out and answered. "Yea," The whites of his eyes were red from his last hour of mourning for the poor woman. He looked at the sky and pretty much guessed that it was three or so, the nearest town from here was Rabona; the holy city.
If they headed there now it would only roughly about seven hours, five if they were in a hurry to get there. He doubted that they would make it before curfew time and Clare suggested that they camped here for the night.
Naruto didn't bother to complain, to be honest he didn't even bother to do anything. He just felt empty, cold and sad. After planting a few flowers in the dirt where her body laid, he wished Clare a good night.
Instead of lying against his blade, he simply rested the blade firmly into the dirt and lay on his side. Ignoring the protests his stomach were practically giving him, even Clare suggested that he should eat something.
But he simply told her that he was fine, and closed his eyes. Hoping that Elena was now in a better place.
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Afternoon light bathed the holy city of Rabona as warm air simply whirred down grey cobblestones. People wandered the streets without a care in the world. Some were busy buying food from the loud and boisterous market place, while others simply chatted amongst themselves.
The door for the Silver Feather's inn was pushed open, tripping the bell that hung at the top of the door frame. The inn keeper was awakened out of his half asleep, half awakened daze. The afternoon air always made him feel tired and sleepy, but he was used to it. But watched with interest as two cloaked figures walked into the in.
One of them was a tall female with dark brown eyes and pale blond hair that framed her face, a really beauty if he had ever seen one in his life. The other was also blond, though his hair color seemed much darker then in contrast to the female, which was in a ponytail and he had azure blue eyes.
So much so that he had almost mistaken then for jewels, odd, he thought to himself. The male of the group quickly asked for a double, and explained that he and his sister were new to the city. Almost instantly he produced gold coins from his purse, almost causing the inn keeper to nearly fall out of his seat.
He happily fished out a room key and gave them the instructions to find their rooms. The blond haired man thanked him politely, he and the woman walked by a few guards. To which some of them commented that she was beautiful and wondered who she was.
Almost instantly the door seemed to slam with more force than it needed to be. Starling the men and sending the bolts in the doorframe rattled by the shock. The male locked the door behind them, and pulled off his hood and he gave a sigh of relief. "Well Clare, is this suitable enough?"
The young woman took a look around the room, which were both quite large and seemed too satisfied and gave a nod. "The room seems hospitable," Clare gave a groan, and held her stomach as if she was in pain.
Instantly Naruto was at her side, and he helped sit her down by one of the beds, Worry adorned his handsome face. "Clare are you okay? You don't look so good" he stated, noting that her silver orbs were now a beautiful dark brown.
"I'm fine," she assured him. "It's just these pills."
Flash back
"My next mission in the Cit of Rabona?" Clare inquired to Rubel, who simply gave a nod.
"That's right, the request came from there. They would like for you to hunt down a Yoma that appeared in the town." He looked at Number 47 and saw that she was hesitant.
"But… isn't Rabona—
"Yes, anything unnatural whether it be objects, tools or even people, are forbidden in the Holy City of Rabona. Of course that includes us Claymores" His voice held mirth and he couldn't help but chuckle at the cold look she sent at him.
"If that is so then we can't—
"It's already been taken care of my dear. After all this is a matter of the utmost urgency, we've been asked to enter the city without revealing who we are. Then dispatch the creature quickly and quietly as possible. Understand?
Clare folded her arms and nodded, the idea sounded like it could work. But what about—
Rubel suddenly threw a package in her arms. She caught it with little effort and could have sword she heard a small tinkering noise on the inside.
"There's a small container inside of the package, open it up, Clare" Rubel watched as she did as she was told, and her hands came over some kind of capsule. She popped it open and in her palm were three round brown balls, all the size of a gumball.
Clare looked at them in confusion and the handler couldn't help but chuckle. "I take it you've never seen them before. It's quite alright, they don't look like much but they have the ability to suppress your powers. Temporarily, they'll change you eye color back to the way it used to look like. Relax Clare, you won't give yourself away.
But there is a downside; you will lose the ability to sense Yoma. So after you and Naruto slip into town, you'll both have to find it the old fashion way. All you have to do is convince him that he is your brother, and then you'll be able to slip in without raising any alarms.
Clare bristled at the inclination of using Naruto, her cold gaze pierced the handler. "You picked me, just so I can take advantage of him?"
The man simply fixed his glasses, and held a small grin. "Its nothing like that Clare, its just that when you have the necessary tools in your possession, its only right to use them to the best of you abilities," He heard a rumble in her throat, like a growl but simply ignored it.
Noting that she seemed rather touchy about the young male that was travelling with her, but didn't say anything. "You've been trained to handle situations such as these, and please, do try to be a modest young lady, at least for Naruto's sake, hmm"
He was awarded by an awkward blink from the young lady, and nearly busted out in laughter. But held it back, maybe having that blond kid around wasn't so bad after all.
Flashback end
"CLARE!"
Number 47 was broken out of her thoughts, realizing that she was daydreaming; she felt he was squeezing her hands in concern. "Hey, are you alright? What is it?"
"Oh… uh… I was day dreaming" she replied.
"You sure that was all, maybe you should get some rest" Clare shook her head at her blond partner, and gave him a small smile.
"I'm fine, really, let's go out. Time is running short.
Naruto gave a nod, and left his blade hidden in the room. But not before taking the two side blades off of the large sword, not wanting to be the one without a weapon if anything was going down and hid them in his robes
While Clare also hid her claymore blade, lest it would draw on unwanted attention since Naruto was able to convince the man that they were both simply wandering chefs.
The stepped out of the room, headed down stairs and stepped out the door. The elderly man looked slightly surprised. "Oh my, going out so soon you two?"
"Oh yes, we're going to take a look around the town" Clare gave a serene smile that simply looked beautiful. Though the blond swordsman couldn't help but shake his head at the woman, it was obvious the woman was a great actor. He could tell that she was forcing her smile, though the other man didn't know.
They both walked out, stepping out into the sun and busy streets of Rabona. Naruto stretched his arms and rested them comfortably behind the back of his head. "I gotta say that you can be a very convincing actor Clare. Had I been someone else I would have been completely fooled by that fake smile,"
Said woman could help but shrug her shoulders. "I've had some training in covert operations. We've learned to carry ourselves so we can blush like an aristocrat and smile like a prostitute"
Naruto nearly lost his footing and tripped, giving Clare a rather stupefied look. Smile like a prostitute? Is she serious? The idea simply made his ears burn with red, and a he could feel some activity coming from down south.
Clare seemed rather amused, and gave him a small teasing smile. "What's wrong Naruto? Are you interested? Would you like me to show you?"
The offer was tempting, really tempting to the blond. He could feel that his cheeks burn and he crossed his arms and pouted, causing Clare to almost giggle. "To be honest I'd rather be the one to see your real smile, not something someone taught you how to do" came his answer.
Number 47 was rather surprised, but couldn't help a sigh. Even though he was a human, a male at that, he was rather honest and thoughtful. He wasn't afraid to speak what was on his mind, and she found that appealing about him.
The sound of a church bell clanged in the air, causing both blonds to look up at a large church like structure. They were near Rabona Cathedral, which was centered and located in the middle of the town.
"Let's go inside," Clare spoke, Naruto gave a nod and followed behind her. They stepped into the large building structure. The archways were enormous, and it along with the floor and walls were made from marble. Giving it an attractive pearl like color.
Quickly the made their way passed several people, most were praying while others were carrying out their priestly duties. They walked down the great hall in the murmurs of prayer, until they came across a guard. Obviously he was supposed to the security of these parts.
"Excuse me, we were looking for the baptism hall," Clare asked in a polite tone.
"The baptism hall is beyond here; however it is closed to the general public." He spoke gruffly. His armor clanked slightly as he eyed both cloaked figures carefully.
"Well, we came to be baptized."
The guard raised a brow. "Do you have any proof of this?"
Clare turned to Naruto who simply shrug and fished from his pocket a coin. He handed the coin to the guard, who studied it carefully to make sure that it was real. Finally he handed it back. "This is proof indeed, please, enter"
With a small bow they entered the room behind the guard, and came into another hall way. Naruto couldn't help but to think that this place was simply huge, and it was pretty obvious that a lot of money was put into this place. If given that there were actually golden coffins in the vicinity.
Though Clare didn't have the same feelings. Her brows were knitted and a frown marred her beautiful face. Damn it, I guess Rubel was right after all, no matter where I go, I can't get a whiff of the Yoma anywhere. Well, at least searching the town won't be so boring.
Her eyes trailed over to Naruto for a split second before heading back to business. Noting that she really was enjoying his company, but wouldn't voice it anytime soon. She needed to be focused and find the client.
"You there!" Both blonds turned to the sound of the voice. Each met the gaze of a large, elderly bald man dressed in priestly clothing. A warm friendly smile wore on his lips. "If you're here to be baptized, then please, come this way" he beckoned for them.
"Are you, perhaps Father Vincent?" she inquired, and the man gave a nod. "It is truly an honor to meet you" she gave a bow to the priest, and got on her knees before him. Her hands were clasped in a prayer gesture and her eyes were closed.
He made to give her his blessings. "I baptize in the name of our Lord. Please, tell me the name of yours?"
"It is Rimuto sir. My brother and I came from the land of Sutafu."
A cold shudder ran down the priest's spine. His eyes widened in shock and he seemed fearful, causing several people to look at him strangely. Naruto narrowed his eyes, his hands were leveled at his waist. Ready at any moment to cut down anything or anyone that would do harm to Clare.
Clare leveled him a small glare, already she could feel her partner's unease, and whispered. "Please lower you voice, lest we be found out," she hissed, before speaking normally. "Please continue, father"
Father Vincent suddenly broke out of his cold sweat, realizing who she was and gave a nod. His hands were leveled to the sides of her head as he brought his lips down to kiss the top of her head, but stopped enough for his lips to be in level with her ears. "We'll meet in the south room on the top floor in the Cathedral. There's a curfew at night so it will be difficult to walk around. Will you be alright?
"Leave it to me… Father" Father Vincent did a few hand gestures, and spoke the sacred rite of baptism over her head. Clare got up and headed towards Naruto, she spoke and gave him a nod, before leaving.
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"So what did you think of your dinner?" the inn keeper asked as he entered the room, it was night time. Clare was seated in a chair while Naruto lounged lazily in the bed, patting his stomach.
"Our dinner was quite palatable" Clare said with a practiced smile.
The smile simply made the old man beam. "I'm glad to hear it!" he replied jovially, while collecting the plates. "By the way, there's a curfew at night, so you shouldn't go walking about outside. I wouldn't want neither of you in trouble, understand?"
"Yes," Clare said. "My brother and I knew that, thank you."
"Well then, you both have a good night!" The door closed behind him. Clare turned to Naruto who simply beamed at him. "I'm still surprised that you ate those large plates full of food," she said wryly. "For a moment I thought you would get sick or burst from over eating."
Naruto gave a snort. "Me waste food, no way. Besides, don't forget that I hadn't eaten in over a day and a half, so if there's more, my stomach will simply make more room for it." He replied with a bright smile.
"Though I do wonder, how do you stay in such remarkable shape, if you eat so much?" Clare wondered out loud.
"Training," He replied cheekily, before he flipped off of the bed. "So, what are we doing for the night?"
"I will be going out," Clare stated sternly. "You are going to bed, lock the doors and if anyone comes in pretend you're asleep."
Naruto gave a groan, folding his arms across his chest and mumbling something about not having enough adventure. Clare only gave him a look and he simply sighed. "Okay Clare, I… understand"
He arranged the sheets and pillow to make it seem like a human shape occupied the bed. "That should be able to fool anyone in the dark, I suppose."
Clare gave him a wistful smile. "Very good, I'll be off then."
She made to jump out of the window, but realized that she was being held down. Looking down he found his hands were wrapped softly around her waist, holding her into place firmly. "Clare," His voice was like a whisper, coming out thick and velvet.
The woman nearly sucked in an intake of breath. Feeling the warmness of his breath trickling down her spine, nearly making her shudder, a pleasurable sensation crept in her toes. "Promise me you won't do anything reckless okay? I… I don' want to lose you. Understand?" his tone was honest and caring.
Clare couldn't answer, but she nodded her head. She was afraid that if she opened her mouth, the right sounds wouldn't come out the way she wanted them to. Her cheeks simply burned crimson from the contact, she could feel the tough wall of muscles behind her shoulders and back.
"Please, be careful Clare," with that she gave a final nod. He released his hold of her and she was like a blur in the night, speedily making her way across rooftops like nobody's business.
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Naruto was awakened from his sound asleep by the sound of a knocking on the door. The loud rapping noise was simply annoying and he felt like cursing like a sailor, but decided against it.
"Excuse me kind sir?" the inn keeper's voice called through. "I was wondering if you were in needed of anything at the moment."
"No, thank you" Naruto replied.
"What about your sister?"
Naruto looked at the makeshift dummy lying in bed and couldn't help but shake his head. "I'm afraid she's a deep sleeper. Your dinner was so good that she fell out cold instantly."
"Well that's good to hear!" the owner laughed. "Well then, have a good night then."
"Same to you," Naruto sighed in relief as the footsteps grew fainter from the door. He could tell that it was already after 4 in the morning, jus what the hell could be taking her so freaking long!
Suddenly a rustling came from the window, he strode over quickly and unlatched the frame. "Oh thank God Clare, I was so—
Her finger on his lips shushed him from making any noises. She slipped through the open window and locked it behind her silently. He noticed that her cloak was missing, but she didn't look injured in the least. "Are you alright? Did anything happen?" Clare could see his concern, but assured him.
"I'm fine Naruto," She said. "Please, get some sleep"
Naruto gave a tired sigh before giving a nod, he popped into bed and turned over so he could watch Clare go to sleep. But his eyes felt so heavy, that he just couldn't find the energy to simply stay awake.
Though he did hope that Clare didn't do anything reckless or fool hardy tonight.
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Morning light came pretty quickly, and along with some of the city's soldiers. Instantly the door crumpled like paper under their combined might. "Don't move!" one of them said tersely as they grabbed Naruto and Clare. Thankfully, before these guys had came busting in she was able to take more of her suppressor pills, since they only work for about half a day.
But he could only pray that they worked quickly, before Clare threw her cloak on her eyes were now silver.
"Tha half eaten bodies of two soldiers were found yesterday in the cathedral," one soldier explained, before pushing them both along. "Come with us!
The blond blacksmiths eyes trailed over to Clare, who simply let herself be led away. Following her example he followed close by, though he couldn't help but wonder. Clare, I really hope you didn't do something off of the handle last night.
Suddenly two figures stood at the door frame, peering inside of the room. One was a very large, very bulky male. While the other was simply short and lean, and a visible smirk danced on his lips. "Hmm, I would say that she was about that height."
The soldiers in the room visibly tensed, if a pin was dropped they would all hear it.
The shorter male rubbed his chin, still wearing his smirk. "Looked pretty suspect to me, running around the rooftops last night," he continued, resting his head as his elbows leaned against the doorframe. "Didn't you two arrive in town just yesterday?
"So what if we did, just what are you insinuating exactly? What crime have we committed?" Naruto asked while cross his arms and tapping his left foot.
"Well what I'm insinuating is that I think that the girl from last night was a Yoma. Its not like the thing just suddenly appeared yesterday or today. But," The man known as Sid spoke darkly. "To be able to catch my knives in mid air with their bare hands, I doubt any normal girl would be able to perform such a feat.
Naruto didn't seem worried, but couldn't help but feel disturbed by this guy. The way he spoke and was so close to Clare made him ill, but he stood his ground. Sid continued. "But say someone that isn't allowed here like, hmm I don't know, a silver eyed half monster witch would be able to do such a thing!
The man yanked her cloak off, Naruto felt his heart practically crashing against his ribcage. The cloak flew off of Clare and the man known as Sid saw that she had dark brown eyes and blond hair, instead of silver like that of a Claymore.
Sid frowned in disappointment. "Hmm, your eyes don't look silver to me" though his eyes were practically drinking in her beauty.
His hand cupped her chin, moving her head around and Clare simply just let him. "You're a pretty one, aren't you?" his tone was lecherous, his face was leaned so close she could feel the warmth of his breath. "But we fought a half breed that dirtied her beautiful body with monster flesh. It wouldn't be surprising if she could change the color of her eyes… now would it?" His dark words lingered in the air.
CRACK!!!
The soldier known as Sid was sent crashing to the floor as his partner Galk was simply startled. The other soldiers were also startled.
Naruto had wrenched himself out of their hold, crossed the room in less than two strides and smashed his jaw. All in one nearly fluid motion. Even Clare was surprised by the action.
Sid growled as he got up to his feet, his hand reached to his face wiping away blood the seemed to ooze from his teeth and nose like a fountain. "You little punk! What was that for!?"
"Who are you calling a punk you bastard!" Naruto shot back, cracking his knuckles in preparation. "You come in here and accuse us of crimes, to which you don't even have no physical evidence or anything of the sort to support your claim. Then to top it all off your not only calling my sister a monster, but just now you were looking at her as if she is some piece of meat. Instead of wasting your time trying to chase my sister's ass, why don't you go out there and hunt the damn thing responsible for this atrocity!"
"You punk," Sid hissed, bringing his fist up while Naruto took a lazy stance on his feet, ready to show him a world of hurt. But Galk, his partner grabbed his forearm. "That's enough Sid," he spoke seriously. "We're done here, now let's go"
"Grr" Sid growled, but realized that he wasn't going to get his way. The young man simply glared at Naruto before he clicked his teeth and slammed the door behind him.
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"Hmm."
Naruto looked at Clare's face; she looked like she was deep in thought. "Is something wrong?" he asked.
"Oh, well. What you said, on the spot were really good and took a lot of guts, and you pulled it off without breaking a sweat. It was… cunning of you, really inventive and somehow honest."
Naruto gave a sheepish grin on his face. "Aww shucks, you going to make me blush Clare. Thank you."
"You're welcome."
Clare continued to watch the sky outside as Naruto bustled around the room, grabbing his black collared shirt and putting it on. "So, did you find anything out?"
Clare nodded. "The Yoma seems to be preying on humans inside the cathedral," she answered. "I'm going back tonight to find out more."
Naruto nodded. "Hey, be careful of those two soldiers," he said uneasily. "I really don't trust that Sid character."
Clare gave him her not-smile again. "Is it because he hates Silver-Eyed Witches, or had some interest in me when he thought I was human?" she asked in amusement. Naruto huffed.
"A little bit of both, but to be honest I didn't like the way he was interested in you just because you look physically attractive, anyway," He answered honestly. "So, can I come along tonight?
Clare gave a sigh. It wasn't like she could hold off such dangers away from him forever, and it wasn't like he was some useless crybaby who couldn't defend himself. He was a man. A strong, kind, gentle, honest to goodness man.
Clare looked out the window. "Get ready to leave by nightfall. In the meantime, we'll leave our 'cuisines' with the father. Shall we?"
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Two dark figures made haste across the rooftops of the city of Rabona. The night air was cold and nearly chilly, but it didn't stop or impede their movements. Earlier on, Clare had gotten the necessary information from Father Vincent, finding out that their target was a voracious eater. A very smart one at that.
Though they didn't see the figures hidden in the shadow, a male face peeked from the counter. "Hmm, something moved."
"Must be that girl" Sid replied with a grin. But they both could see that this time she had a partner, this time.
The two living shadows dashed into the night, like acrobats with unusual grace. Both happened to land on a rooftop, back to back. It would seem that they were not alone. "It would seem that we have company," the male cloaked figure spoke out loud.
Sid pulled out his throwing knives, a large grin present on his face. "Heh. Heh. Leaping across rooftops isn't as fast as, running on the ground." He looked across the buildings; Galk drew his sword from his scabbard, his face dead serious.
"Alright. No more excuses from the both of you… brother and sister"
A powerful blew through the area, causing the hoods of both individuals to come off. The male and female were both easily recognizable, though the two guards simply looked at shocked. A large feral grin popped on Sid's face. "Oh Hoo! Now you show your silver eyes witch! Even your face looks different from this afternoon. Oi punk, I owe you shoot from earlier on, looks like to night I'm going to get it after all"
Naruto couldn't help but shake his head. "Well Clare, it would seem that it can't be helped. Mind if I take a shot at the big guy, and you deal with the small fry?"
Clare pulled from her pockets two wicked looking daggers. Both exactly nine inches in length with razor sharp edges and were a midnight black color. Naruto had given it to Clare right before they headed out in the knight, since he didn't like the idea of her without a secondary weapon on her person. "So it would seem we have to come to an impasse and it would also seem that the both of you are very stubborn. So I can't ask you to properly leave, however, I can tell you that right now that neither of us will be holding back if you get in our way. If you're going to come at us, then go ahead." She simply replied.
Galk gave a growl, not at all believing the cockiness of these two travelers. Sid simply said. "Tch, so you've show your true colors at last. You have the aura of a monster even though you're a half breed. Sorry, but the law says unholy things must be eliminated, as well as those who mix with said unholy things!"
Galk and Sid both shot forward from different angles. Galk with his broadsword and Sid with his throwing knives, a wicked smile came to his lips simply let them take flight. They sped towards the blind spot of Clare, but Naruto pulled something from his back. To there surprise, a really big sword and knocked the daggers out of the air.
Causing them to bounce back harmlessly, and hit the ground. Both men were shocked by the massive size of the blade itself, and even more so that the kid was even using it like it weighed absolutely nothing. Galk shook himself from his thoughts, his sword aimed to strike the blond boy's exposed back.
Clare intercepted him and locked her blades against his, her face was a stern mask. Her arms didn't even budge when the older male soldier tried to push against her. She moved one of her blades out of the lock while using her right arm for leverage, and her left to attack his exposed neck.
Galk almost didn't catch the action and blocked with his forearm. His eyes widened in shock as she applied pressure to it, slowly but surely the blade was going through his armor and aimed for the flesh underneath.
Sid made to help his partner, but nearly got his head removed from his shoulders and rolled out of the path of the boy's blade. Naruto simply smiled as he dashed and brought his blade down on him, and as he expected he moved out of the way, thus allowing him the kick Sid's knee.
The effect was imminent and he slumped, before he got smashed in the face by a fist. The blow threw him off of his feet, and left him dazed for a moment. Sid shook his head, he looked over and saw that Galk was having some problems against the Claymore.
Taking the opening Sid let loose another volley of knives. Naruto wasn't in range this time and cursed mentally for not being able to cover her flank. But was greatly relieved when he cape suddenly flew up with such an intense force, knocking the knives out of the way.
Both soldiers gaped, while Naruto was in awe. Whoa, she used her cape to block the knives… I knew she was awesome!
God damn it, their defense is to strong!" Sid complained, before rolling out of the way of being turned into a slice of bread. Galk made to punch Clare but she jumped back, and kicked off of his chest. Giving her some distance, and landed besides Naruto who couldn't help but beam
"Oi Galk, can't we do something about these two!?"
"Get the Claymore, I'll deal with the kid!" Galk spoke and rushed forward, his large broadsword in hand at his new target. The teen met his blade in an instant. Sparks flew off of their blades as they crashed violently. Naruto had to admit to the older male, the man was more experienced than his half brained friend Sid, but he made the mistake for assuming that he was the weaker of the two.
Galk curved his blade at a diagonal position after jumping back. Naruto blocked, but almost didn't see the flash of steel as he parried his blade, and would have sliced the back of his hand had he not placed his palm on the flat of the blade and shoved it out of his way. Timing it correctly, and shoved his finger in the man's throat.
Galk staggered back, gasping for air in his burning throat. But Naruto didn't give him a moment's rest and kept on the aggression, and shoved a vicious kick in his armored stomach. One in which Naruto was positive that he felt it, despite the fact that he was wearing armor, and gave him palm a deep cut.
He turned his azure eyes behind him when he heard a yelp in pain. Clare had shoved her foot deeply within the chest of Sid, knocking the fight and the wind out of him, thus launching herself in the air. Landing on a cross on one foot, causing the blacksmith nearly catch his breath in his throat.
She looked absolutely extravagant. Words couldn't even describe what he thought of her. The sounds of a scream of terror erupted, and sounded like it was coming from the Cathedral, causing Clare to bolt for it.
Naruto cursed himself and turned towards the men, who were still in horrified awe. "You two don't know how lucky you are" he informed them and ran across the rooftops while shouldering his blade. He narrowed his eyes and looked over his shoulder only to find Galk and Sid pursuing him.
Clare had just cleared the door and looked like a complete blur. She had moved so fast that neither of the men was able to discern who it was. Naruto gave a smile and dashed past the men also, thanking them for leaving the door open to him.
He stopped short behind Clare, who seemed to be looking around the room. Across from her was the body of a dead soldier, his chest was caved open and his blood drained on the floor. She mentally cursed for being unable to pinpoint the exact location of the Yoma.
She couldn't tell where the Yoma was because of the side effect of the pills weakening her abilities. Naruto felt a strange yet familiar feeling in his brain, like a tingle in the back of his skull. He never knew why it happened, but realized it only happened under one condition.
"CLARE BEHIND YOU!" Naruto sped across the cathedral grounds in a sprint, and jumped towards her. Clare felt a cold tingle in the back of her neck and spun around to meet a larger than normal Yoma behind her. At least ten feet tall no more and no less, than that. How did Naruto know where the Yoma was?
She was roughly shoved out of the way, and heard the sound of steel clashing against flesh. Naruto growled as he pushed against the much larger being, his bleed deeply embedded into its forearm.
The Yoma simply growled in annoyance as he pushed back, trying to win their game of dominance. The blond looked over his shoulder for a split second to see if Clare was okay. Thankfully she was fine, but Galk and Sid were near the doorway, both men were frozen in pure adulterated terror.
"W… What the hell?" Sid gulped his fear. "Is that… a Yoma?"
"Just do as I say," Naruto growled as he pushed against the beast. "You guys can't beat him, he's to strong! GET BACK!" He ordered them to do, but paled when he felt his blade fell down. Cutting into air, his opponent was simply a black blur off pure speed.
It headed towards the two soldiers, already scenting the two weaker humans in the room. Both were simply stuck in fear and shock. Clare reacted quickly and blurred in front of them, her blades were held up in defense, but she was over powered when he sank his nails into her shoulder.
Blood erupted from her injury and she cried out loudly in pain.
"CLARE!!!" Naruto roared, clearing the room in an instant. The Yoma spun around to the other warrior and narrowly dodged the swiped that down its right eye. Effectively rendering it useless, the Yoma roared at the stinging pain from the blade while digging out its useless eye.
Then it roared again as one of Clare's daggers sunk into its neck, purple blood erupted like a small fountain. Number 47 was greatly fatigued, she knew that the pills would weaken her a great deal, but she didn't think it would be this bad.
"GRAAAAH!" it bellowed, wrenching the offending object from its neck. Suddenly it disappeared from view again.
Clare, who had gotten up when she had been stabbed, suddenly kicked Sid on his back. Causing him the yelp in pain.
"WHAT THE HE—!" he stopped and his eyes widened, the Yoma had suddenly crushed the ground where he was earlier. Had he been at the exact spot, he would have been killed instantly.
Clare used her remaining weapon to cut off its head, but it blocked with its still bleeding arm, causing her teeth to grit in effort. She was extremely tired, but it was the will to protect that pushed her to her breaking point.
Galk, who had finally built the nerve to draw his sword, tried slashing at the creature. But the Yoma simply shattered the blade like it was nothing, instantly its fingers stretched into the length of spears and fired them towards him.
But Clare sunk her dagger deep within the Yoma's arm, saving Galk's life.
"RUN!" she yelled. "GET OUT OF THE WAY!!!"
Her eyes then widened as she sat there, the Yoma's other five finger had impaled her with one blow through the chest. She gasped and blood slid down her mouth.
"BASTARD!!!" Naruto roared, separating his blades leaving him with the main and hollow blade in both hands. Making a mad dash towards the bastard that gravelly hurt Clare. The Yoma simply looked at the blond swordsman before throwing Clare carelessly to the ground, earning a pained gasp from the woman.
It turned its solitary eye towards the men with a cruel yellow smile of its teeth. Sid was simply frozen with fear, and never before he had expected a Yoma to be this powerful. Galk was weaponless but seemed to prepare to fight. Naruto… well…
"YOUR GOING DOWN! YOU HEAR ME YOU ONE EYED BASTARD! DOWN!!!!" he screamed as he smashed the hollow blade against the beast chest, earning a flow of purple blood spraying into the air. Tearing through flesh like it was steak. The Yoma growled in annoyance and pain, there was something about that blade that seemed to make his injuries burn when it tried to regenerate.
Naruto dodged its back hand, and viciously slammed both blades into its chest before kicing the offending creature away from him. Then with all his might, combined both blades in a single effort and made to cut its head off.
The Yoma moved out of the way, but at the cost of his entire upper right side of its body. The door suddenly slammed and all the guards seemed to storm the cathedral. All armed with dead spears.
It snarled, realizing that it didn't have the strength to kill them all, and would need time to regenerate its injuries. He would kill these foolish humans at a later date, especially the blond boy and with a roar. It jumped into the darkness and disappeared.
Naruto let loose a roar of pure unbridled anger, his bellow echoed through the halls of the cathedral. Causing some of the soldiers to jump in surprise, it sounded like an animal that was beyond anger. Even Galk and Sid gave him a glance and were surprised.
After sheathing his sword he spun around, finding Sid head bent over Clare's chest. He said something about Clare still being alive. He motioned across the room with haste and shoved the younger male out of his way. Not even realizing how much power he had behind the shove.
His eyes leveled against the two men, and especially Sid. "Don't. You. Touch. Her." His voice was cold, and void of all emotion. The look his eyes gave simply made them cringe in fright, never before had they ever seen such a cold look. But on Naruto it simply added the effect, even Sid and Galk shivered.
He picked her up in his arms, and brought her body pressed tightly to his. Clare looked so fragile and delicate, like glass. Her skin was pale and her breathing was shallow, but he was able to catch on to the one word she said. "Naruto" it came out as a whisper, but he still heard it.
Even though she was gravelly injured, she thought about him. Clare actually thought about him.
The blond blacksmith made to leave, but noted how the guards were still in his way. Some gave him weird looks. Annoyance danced in his eyes, and all thought of rationality left him the moment Clare fell to the ground almost without life at all. His left arm made to reach for his blade, but was stopped by Galk who knew just what he was truly capable of with that strange sword.
"There is no need for anymore hostility. She saved my life and the life of my friend Sid, so we assure you we won't hurt her or you. Even if she is part monster."
The word monster somehow for some reason struck a chord in Naruto, and his anger began to slowly ebb. Reasoning was coming back to his mind, and he looked at Clare. His grip on her body tightened.
He'd make that Yoma pay, quadruple times over. Even if it was the last thing he did.
This here is my chapter 2 dear. Hope you all liked the gradually building developments in the story, and stay tune for chapter 3 in the near future. I'd like to give those who guessed correctly what Naruto's weapon was, their own valued cookies.
I was to lazy to put down the names in this chapter so I'll do it in the chapter 3. For those who couldn't figure it out, or confused it with the buster sword. The weapon he is wielding is called by two names; The First Tsurgi or First Ken, a large blade fashioned by the individual pieces of six other blades, or better known as fusion swords.
So anyway. Read and Review and tell me what you think, and I'll get back to working on Rosario Kitsune.