Disclaimer: Do not own Naruto and I am doing this for fun not profit.
Chapter 2: Meeting the Demon
Naruto did not know how long it took to reach the road. Once he did though he pulled out the map from the days exercise, however due to its time in the water it was pretty much useless. It didn't really matter though because when Hinata had showed him how to read one earlier she had pointed out various places he could go. Thinking back he remembered that there was some kind of outpost a few miles north of the river deciding for now that was his best option he chose to follow the road in that direction.
While on the road he though back to his time in the forest, he had heard what sounded like people searching for him. However, not wanting to be found he had hid from them. Although now with it being the dead of night and all alone he began to wonder if he was making the right decision. Steeling himself, he decided he had to go through with it, Hinata and Sakura could be killed otherwise and the thought of that made his heart clench in pain.
As dawn began to break Naruto finally saw the outpost in the distance. Rushing towards it he stopped at the entrance and began to read the sign, "The Crazy Oxen's Trading Outpost." He smiled at the sign of an ox on two legs in a straight-jacket with a wild look in its eyes. Sneaking past the sleeping guard had been easy; he then made his way towards the back of the outpost where there were a bunch of wagons. Climbing into the back of one with a cover over it he was assaulted by the smell of all kinds of different foods. His stomach then reminded him that he had not eaten since lunch the day before with a loud grumble. Desperate to eat he broke into one of the crates which carried some peaches, after grabbing as many as he could carry he moved to the front of the wagon, behind some crates and he began to eat. After having had his fill his eyes began to feel heavy, deciding a short nap was in order due to being up all day and night he closed his eyes and went to sleep.
After being brought to the hospital by Iruka both Hinata and Sakura where admitted to a room on the second floor. Having been treated for shock and told to stay the night they had both soon gone to sleep after a visit from both of their parents. Sakura mother had rushed in and immediately hugged her daughter. With the curtain dividing their two beds Hinata could not see what was going on but she could hear.
"Oh, my poor baby," cried Misaki Haruno, otherwise known as Sakura's mother, "did either of those horrible monsters hurt you."
"No mommy, I'm fine," responded a relieved Sakura. All throughout the ordeal she had only wanted to be in one place her mother's arms finally having made it to that destination she could not be happier.
For her part though, Hinata had wondered what Sakura's mother had meant by monsters. Was there another man out in the woods trying to kidnap her? However further speculation was put to rest upon the door to their hospital room being opened again and in stepped Hiashi Hyuuga head of the clan, and her father. Following behind him was her mother who had just finished asking a third person if he would like to come in as well however he chose to remain in the hall. Before the door to her room closed she saw a look of anger pass across the boy's face directed at her. However she could not fault her cousin Neji for hating such a worthless girl as her even though it pained her, especially considering that it was widely believed in the Branch family that her father's brother Hizashi had been killed to appease Kumo after the first kidnapping attempt on Hinata and shortly after that her cousin only looked at her with anger.
"I trust you are well Hinata," asked the calm voice of Hiashi.
"We almost lose our daughter and that is how you show your relief, honestly," said the warm voice of Hinata's mother. She then sat next to her daughter on the hospital bed being mindful of the prominent bulge that showed she was pregnant with Hinata's future sibling. Her mother then wrapped her arms around her in such a tight hug that for a moment Hinata could not breathe. The hug finally loosened but her mother kept a hand on her almost as if to reassure herself her daughter was safe.
While her parents were not as vocal as Sakura's mother on the other side of the divider their elation at their daughters safety was easy to see on their usually stoic faces. More so with her father, who except when berating her clumsiness while learning the Gentle Fist style of her clan, always presented an image of calm to the outside world.
"F-father…," Hinata began and then waited, for Hiashi's permission to continue, upon receiving it the form of a head nod, she asked, "H-have they found N-naruto?"
Hiashi simply shook his head no. The truth was Hiashi had disregarded the boy like so many others, not particularly caring one way or the other. That all changed when a messenger from the Hokage had arrived at the Hyuuga compound to inform him his daughter had been in some incident. On his way to the Hokage's tower he ran into a young chunin who asked if he could spare some men to search for the young boy. Unfortunately one of the clan elders was along with him at the time and had promptly shot the idea down. Upon reaching the Hokage's office and hearing that Naruto was the one who had prevented Hinata's abduction he almost over-ruled the elder when the Hokage had asked for assistance. However the elder had said all available branch members would be guarding the hospital as well as the compound, waving off the assurances of the Hokage that it was not necessary. Hiashi was furious with the elder. The boy was owed a debt by the Hyuuga he did not deserve to be simply written off. Afraid if he voiced his opinion out loud he would lose the support of the main house he kept quiet, although seeing the crushed look upon his daughter's face at the lack of news on Naruto almost made him change his mind and assemble a few teams to help. His wife seeing the subtle battle he was waging gave him a look that said, don't do it. She knew that with the Branch family already against him to lose the support of the Main house would result in Hiashi's removal as head of the clan, only to be replaced by someone who had no desire to bring the family back together as one house.
After a while a nurse entered the room and let them know visiting hours were over. Misaki tried to argue not wanting to leave Sakura alone, she only relented when Hiashi told her the Hyuuga have stationed people all over the hospital. After escorting the visitors out, the nurse comes back and tells them to get some rest. Both girls tell the nurse they are not tired but the woman persists and they quickly prove her right when both drift off to sleep within moments of closing their eyes.
Sakura was awakened a few hours later to the soft sound of someone crying, quickly deducing that it was Hinata she got out of bed and walked toward Hinata's side of the room. Seeing the blue haired girl curled in a ball and trying to sob quietly, Sakura asked," Hinata are you alright?"
Startled by Sakura's voice Hinata jumped a little and turned around while trying to wipe the tears from her eyes. she shakily answered, "I'm f-f-fine Sakura. I guess all of the e-excitement got to me is all."
Seeing that Hinata was still upset and would probably resume crying as soon as Sakura returned to the other side of the curtain she told Hinata to move over on the bed. Hinata was confused but did as instructed and once Sakura was in the bed and under the covers with her put an arm over Hinata's shoulder and pulled her head down onto her shoulder and then whispered," It's ok Hinata you don't have to hold it in."
As if a floodgate suddenly burst Hinata turned her head into Sakura's shoulder and lets out a gut wrenching sob and began to cry uncontrollably. A few minutes later she began to mumble how it was all her fault they were attacked and that Naruto was missing.
"Shh, it's not your fault," Sakura stated soothingly, while her other hand began to stroke Hinata's hair.
"Y-y-yes it is, this is the second time," countered Hinata in between sobs," and just like the first someone else has suffered because of me."
"Hinata," began Sakura," you heard the man he wanted you for your eyes, he probably would of settled for any Hyuuga it was just you where easier to take then an adult would have been."
"But Naruto…"
"Naruto wanted to defend both of us," Sakura interjected, "he would probably be happy to know we are both safe because of him, besides I'm sure he's fine and the teachers will have him back by morning."
"D-d-do you really think so?" asked a hopefully Hinata, whose eyes had slowly begun to drift close.
"Sure I'm sure," Sakura answered back only to see that Hinata was no longer awake, the truth was Sakura was not sure that she wanted Naruto to come back. That red chakra had scared her not to mention what he had done to their attacker. Also, her mother had been insistent that she was lucky he had fallen into the river because he probably would have done the same to her and Hinata. Seeing how Hinata had blamed herself Sakura kept these thoughts from her. Growing weary as well and not wanting to disturb the girl resting against her shoulder she also closed her eyes and went to sleep.
Iruka was making his way back to the village, as the sun began to rise. The search and rescue team had agreed after splitting up to meet at the main gate at dawn. They had used the fan pattern in their search which had a person go along each side of the river and then the other searchers going along at different angles away from the starting point the idea being that it was like a fan opening, thus the name. It had been slow going, especially after it had gotten dark, he had not wanted to take the chance that he missed anything. Iruka who was one of the searchers along the riverbank had found no signs of anyone leaving the river. The only thing they did find was the body of the attacker it had gotten wedged in between some rocks. Sending one of the chunin the Aburame clan head had graciously loaned to the mission, Iruka hadn't even had to tell him that it was an official mission ordered by the Hokage to get him to agree, like he had to with most of the searchers.
He still was upset with that Hyuuga elder who had told him no. Even in the face of going in opposition to the Hokage's orders, he had simply told Iruka that all available Branch family members were guarding against another attempt to seize a Main house member. Iruka had tried to explain that it was only due to the boy that Hinata was safe. While this seemed to get Hiashi to almost reconsider the elder had persisted that the security of the Hyuuga came first.
Moving on and angry because of the fact that having the Byakugan would have made searching for Naruto in the dark so much easier he had then headed to the Aburame compound hoping another clan known for its tracking ability would help. Meeting with Aburame Shibi, who agreed to have several chunin meet him at the gate, however upon seeing the elation of Iruka's face he warned him not to put too much faith in their ability to track down the boy. He told them the clan's ability to track individuals really relied on the person to be found being marked with one of the females of their Kikaichu bugs. A little disheartened, but still willing to take any help he could get he made his way towards the main gate asking, begging, and even threatening any shinobi he encountered along the way into helping.
Seeing the village coming into view he wondered to himself why he had yet to encounter Mizuki. While his fellow chunin did have a sizeable lead in his search and the darkness had slowed Iruka and the others down considerably, why wasn't there a sign that Mizuki had been in the area. Did he find a set of tracks that led away from the river and if so why didn't he leave a marker for those he knew would be following.
Dropping from the canopy to the road and running the finally distance to the main gate he could see his fellow searchers as well as the 3rd Hokage. Upon reaching the village leader, he is immediately asked to report. Telling the Hokage he had found nothing he saw the wizened leader face flash his worry for a moment before he asked," Has there been any sign of Mizuki during your search, Iruka"
"I have not seen him Lord Hokage, but I cannot speak for everyone," Iruka answered. The Hokage then looked to the other searchers who all responded negatively to having seen the missing teacher. About to send for a fresh team to go looking for not just Naruto but the missing teacher the Third notices another figure drop to the road and run towards them.
"It seems Mizuki has returned," the Hokage mused.
Mizuki, who had hidden near the village it case Naruto, did try to come back, decided to make himself known after he was sure all of the other searchers had returned. Dropping to one knee in front of the Hokage he reported, "I'm sorry Lord Hokage; I've found no sign of Naruto."
"Where were you Mizuki?" questioned Iruka.
"What do you mean Iruka?" responded Mizuki cautiously wondering what Iruka was getting at," I was following the river looking for Naruto."
"Then why was there no sign of you?" Countered Iruka, "Also you should have left some kind of marker on the kidnapper's body that is if you were where you say you where. The body was right out in the middle of the river caught in the rocks."
Narrowing his eyes at the student instructor, Mizuki said while barely keeping his voice even, "I don't like what it is you are implying, Iruka, I was running on the water," continuing he stated," as to the body I'm afraid it must of been at a point where I had left the river." after all he knew better than to try and say he saw it considering the body most likely had been further down the river then he actually went.
"You just said you where following the river…." Iruka tried to say
However tired of answering his questions Mizuki snapped, "Damn it Iruka, I would leave the river when I heard something that needed investigating and then would go back to the river and before you ask the reason you didn't see my tracks leaving the river is because I would jump to the trees. I was moving quickly and didn't want to trample any signs that a slower going searcher would be looking for."
"If you were going that fast, how did you expect to find him in the dark?" Iruka asked not willing to let Mizuki off the hook.
Exasperated Mizuki threw his hands in the air while saying, "Kami Iruka, the kid was wearing an orange vest with matching pants it wasn't like he shouldn't have stood out like a sore thumb out there." Seeing that by attacking a fellow teacher who was only showing concern for a missing student that he wasn't making any friends Mizuki changed tactics.
"Forgive me Iruka," Mizuki said while sounding apologetic he then went on to say," it's been a long night and I'm upset with myself. I should have listened to you."
"On that we can all agree," the Hokage said having watched the exchange with interest. While Mizuki had not given away any tells that he was not telling the truth, his answers seemed rehearsed. Of course, this could be explained by the fact that he knew he had messed up and would be facing questions about his decisions that had played a part in this tragedy, or more sinisterly he had actually set up the attack. One way or the other Sarutobi came to the conclusion that Mizuki was an excellent liar and would need to be watched closely.
With that in mind he announced, "All of you go home and rest, those of you who are teachers the academy has been closed for the day. Mizuki and Iruka I would like you to stay a moment longer." Waiting for the other searchers to leave and once gone the Hokage addressed the remaining chunin, "Mizuki your decision to take these children on this exercise without following proper protocols is directly responsible for this mess. You are hereby suspended until a full investigation of this tragedy has been completed. Now Leave!" Mizuki looked like he wanted to say something but knew better.
What neither man saw was Mizuki's smirk as he left thinking, "Investigate to your heart's content you old fool, there isn't any direct evidence linking me to this. Then after you're done and I'm in the clear a very contrite teacher will have to inform you that do to the loss of his precious student he will just have to retire."
As Mizuki was leaving the Hokage noticed Iruka staring intently at his fellow chunin's retreating form, "What is it Iruka?" inquirered the Hokage.
"I believe Mizuki isn't telling the whole truth on the matter sir," answered Iruka.
Nodding his head Sarutobi said, "Walk with me Iruka," as they began walking back to the Hokage's Tower he said while chuckling lightly," You know, if these feelings of yours continue to prove accurate, I'll have to fire my advisors and put you in their place."
Iruka embarrassed at his leaders praise remained silent so the Third continued, "On a more serious note, I fear you are correct; however please do not let him know of your suspicions that way perhaps he will lower his guard and get careless."
"Sir what of his class," Iruka wondered.
"Ah, always thinking of the children Iruka," the Hokage said while smiling. However his face became serious a moment later as he stated, "Well Mizuki has teached his last class regardless of how the investigation turns out. His gross lack of ensuring his student's safety cannot be ignored." His smile then returned as he continued, "The truth is I have someone in mind so he had best get home to get some rest for tomorrow he will be taking over."
Nodding at the Hokage's words until a look of understanding crossed his face he then pointed his thumb towards himself as he stammered in surprise, "M-m-me Lord Hokage, I still have at least a half year of observation to perform before I can be an instructor."
Laughing at Iruka's stunned face the Hokage replied," Perhaps, but you have already demonstrated all the necessary qualities that an instructor should have." He then stated more seriously," The truth is Iruka I know you will make a fine instructor and was greatly pleased when you choose to join the academy as one. So if in order to get you in front of the classroom where you belong I have to bend a few rules to do so, well I am the Hokage."
Face flushed from the praise of the Hokage, Iruka said," Thank you sir, I'm honored you think so highly of me but I was hoping to be part of the next group to go looking for Naruto."
"I am pleased to see you worry about him so Iruka, however the next search and rescue team is leaving in ten minutes and you need to rest." Sarutobi then added," Also, I fear that until the Inuzuka, are back on their feet we will just be wasting our time unless someone gets lucky out there. I would prefer that you assume Mizuki's former responsibilities."
Iruka, knowing that the Hokage had made up his mind bowed as he said," Yes sir, and again thank you for having such faith in me. Well then I had best get some sleep." He then turns to begin heading off to his apartment.
Watching him leave Sarutobi thought," I have no doubt you will prove me right Iruka. The Will of Fire burns strongly in you and you will undoubtedly pass it along to those you teach providing the village with many strong and dedicated shinobi." Smiling at the thought of the future of the Leaf his face then returned to a more somber one, as he hoped that his best tracker next to the Inuzuka would return promptly from his mission.
Akihiro Yasuki, the owner of the wagon that Naruto had stowed away in, was a large man who while carrying a little extra weight was still in very good shape. He was middle-aged and bald but had a brown goatee, his eyes were also brown. Furthermore, he was dressed in the colorful garb that most traders wore so as to draw the attention of potential customers. He had come to the Crazy Ox for the same reason most traders stopped there, it was a relatively secure place at a popular crossroads where he could engage in transactions with customers and his fellow traders. After arriving and parking his wagon in back with the others he had set up his stall for the next day and gone to sleep. At just before dawn the following morning he had woken from the front seat of his wagon and had freshened up. As he made his way to his stall he thought he saw something by his wagon but blew it off as having yet to have his morning cup of tea. Now that it was late afternoon he was heading back to the wagon generally pleased with how the past couple days had been going.
"Akihiro old boy you've done it again," he thought while waving to a pair of his fellow merchants. He had made a killing today and even unloaded some old merchandise for a considerable amount more than he expected. Couple that with the fact that the night before he had been able to arrange a trade that allowed him to acquire some Tea Country peaches and he was looking at this trip being his most profitable yet. Reaching the back of the wagon, he climbed in only to see one of the crates of his peaches had been broken into, "Well so much for honor among traders," he said a little dismayed.
Naruto had awoken when the big man had stepped into the back of the wagon and begun cursing internally to himself, "Stupid, stupid, how could I just fall asleep in here" as he crouched behind the crates he was behind. Seeing the man sit with his back to him he began to feel guilty. Yeah he had been run out of his home but that didn't give him the right to become a thief.
Coming out from where he was hiding he approached the man who was still counting peaches and tapped him on the shoulder," Uhm, Mister."
Akihiro for his part did not even consider the fact that he wasn't alone in the wagon and upon being tapped on the shoulder gave out a shriek that much to his embarrassment sounded like a young woman, "Ahhhhhhhhhhh."
Naruto backed up in fright when the man had screamed. Akihiro turning and still a little shaken he said," Kami boy, you damn near gave me a heart-attack." Then his face turned angry as he asked, "You wouldn't happen to be my peach thief would you?"
With his head down due to embarrassment and his voice filled with shame Naruto replied, "Yeah, sorry mister I was running last night and snuck in here to hide and since I hadn't eaten anything and they smelled so good well I just couldn't help it."
"Aren't you a little young to be out here by yourself at night," Akihiro asked.
Naruto not wanting to tell the man the truth came up with an excuse on the fly," I'm a shinobi and I'm on a training exercise."
"What kind of exercise," Akihiro asked his voiced tinged with concern considering he had a couple of rug rats the boys age," has a boy as young as you out here at night by himself."
"The tough kind, believe it," Naruto said with a smile considering the man didn't seem to still be mad about his stolen peaches.
"Ha-ha, ask a stupid question I suppose," Akihiro said, Naruto a little confused by what the man meant just tilted his head to the side with his eyes squinted. He then continued, "But you said you were running and I assume needed to hide, were you being chased?"
"Uh-hu," Naruto said while nodding his head up and down, "I am supposed to hide from the teachers for as long as possible, while trying to make it to a place on my map."
"I don't know," Akihiro said his voice full of doubt, "Sounds to me like you're trying to pull a fast one on me kid."
"Really mister, I've heard of kids my age being full fledge ninja not just academy students like me, believe it," Naruto said, trying to convince the man of the half-truth after all he was being chased and if his teacher caught him, he would fail. Except this time failure meant death. "Besides this little test is nothing to a future Hokage."
"Ah, so you're from the leaf," Akihiro said oblivious to the small grimace that passed over Naruto's face for a moment. Naruto hadn't wanted to give the man a clear idea from where he was from incase he didn't believe him and would try to take him back. However realizing he trapped himself he nodded his head. Ironically enough that tidbit of information was enough to sell Akihiro as he thought, "Oh well I guess they are starting them younger and younger."
"So where are you heading," he asked.
Naruto looking embarrassed, "Well you see my map got ruined so I'm not sure where I have to go anymore."
Understanding Akihiro rummaged in one of his packs in the wagon pulling out a map and after unfolding it he handed it to Naruto. As he looked over the map he realized he hadn't really considered where he was going to go. There was Border Town to the west and from there he could enter Rain Country and just keep going, however that path would take him in the direction of Kohona. Also, most of those countries were friends to the Leaf, therefore he may be more likely to encounter Leaf shinobi, an idea he didn't exactly like. North and South were equally unappealing for various reasons so with only one direction left to go he pointed to one of the furthest cities on the map, Port City. He figured once he got there he could jump onto a ship leaving for another country.
Seeing where the kid pointed Akihiro said, "Port City, well kid looks like you're in luck I have business there myself. You can ride with me and besides it'll give you a chance to work off what you owe for those peaches you ate unless you got the money that is."
Naruto pulling out a frog wallet he called Gamachan, which was a present someone had left in front of his apartment door on his fifth birthday; however there was no need to look inside as it was plain to see that it had been on a diet for some time to which Naruto gave a small pout.
Laughing loudly Akihiro told him, "That's alright like I said I'm heading that way to off load those peaches they are a delicacy in the Land of Water. You'll work for me till we get there in about two days. You can start by helping me bring my remaining merchandise from the stall into the wagon."
Snapping a salute the boy, walked past him and began to get out of the wagon until it dawned on him he had no idea where the man's stall was, he stopped and asked, "Where is your stall?"
Roaring with laughter Akihiro said, "I'll show you. By the way what should I call? You can call me Akihiro."
Not willing to give his real name he said the first thing that popped into his mind, "My name is…. Miso."
"Ok that's a weird name kid," uttered Akihiro.
"Yep my parents must have really liked it huh? Considering I was raised on miso ramen I shouldn't be surprised," Naruto said trying to cover the fact that when he was asked for a name his mind blanked and the first thing to come in it was a flavor of ramen.
"Well Miso, let's get moving, I want to be out of here by nightfall and besides," Akihiro said while looking out the flap of the wagon," looks like a storms coming this way."
Kakashi Hatake was tired, these long A rank solo Anbu black op missions were killers. His job had been to find a daughter of a noblewoman, rescue her, and eliminate her kidnappers all in one go. What had made this particular job all the more of a hassle was the fact that instead of a dainty noble, he had to rescue one that could stand to miss a meal or six, and of course the kidnappers just had to hire a missing-nin as support. In the end he had succeed, but his back was going to need a nice long soak, it certainly wasn't easy to carry someone of that size at full speed while dodging enemy jutsu.
"Oh well," he thought with good cheer," nobody ever said being Anbu was going to be easy."
The sun was just setting as the gates of Kohona were coming into view; he noticed a gathering out front of the main gate. Deciding to find out what was going on he adjusted his course to approach the chunin in charge. Upon getting closer the chunin, a young woman roughly about the same age as him with striking red eyes, noticed him and seeing his easy pace instead ran up to him.
"Dog, the Hokage wishes for you to report to him right away," the chunin told Kakashi with some urgency.
"Very well," he said not very motivated after all if the Hokage wanted him to report that badly he would probably be sent out on another mission right away and he had just picked up this new book that he was really interested in reading. But orders were orders, so with a nod he quickly shunshinsed to the Hokage Tower. Appearing in front of the Hokage's door and receiving a dirty look from the secretary for all the leaves the jutsu deposited he knocked on the door and entered.
Seeing the Hokage he immediately knew something bad had happened for the village leader looked as if he has gone without sleep for quite some time. Once he is in front of the desk he stood at attention saying, "Dog reporting as order, sir."
"At ease Dog," commanded the Hokage, and then goes on to say," You may remove your mask Kakashi."
Kakashi took off the Anbu dog mask setting it on his belt while waiting for the Hokage to compose his thoughts.
"First off Kakashi, I trust your mission was successful," upon receiving a nod from him the Hokage then went on to say," I'm sorry I have to send you out again so soon but a matter has arisen and I need your talents once more."
"Does this have anything to do with the shinobi at the gate, sir?" Kakashi asked.
"Yes, Naruto is missing, and possible injured or worse," The Hokage answered with a voice filled with pain and regret.
"W-what, happened?" questioned a stunned Kakashi," and why haven't the Inuzuka been able to locate him?"
"We believe that the Inuzuka have been poisoned, preventing them from joining the search," before Kakashi could inquire about that the Hokage went on to explain the previous day's events. Getting up from the desk the aged leader looked outside seeing lightening in the distance and turning to face Kakashi he said," With this storm approaching I need you to head out right away, before any evidence of his location is washed away ."
"Yes, Lord Hokage," accepting his mission without hesitation and with thoughts of relaxing with his new book furthest from his mind he took off for Naruto's apartment. Upon reaching it he went inside to find something he could use to give his nin-dogs a scent to follow. Seeing the apartment was quite messy he moved to the bedroom stopping by the bed. He then picked up Naruto's sleeping cap; it had been a birthday gift to him from Kakashi. Looking at it, he thought back with some anger to how the Third had ordered him and Jiraiya to give Naruto a wide berth. The Hokage had not wanted the secret of Naruto's parentage to get out and not just to enemies from outside Konoha's walls but within. Therefore, he and Jiraiya were forced to watch Naruto grow from a distance, after all if you had two men so closely tied to the Fourth Hokage looking after an orphaned blond haired boy well even the slowest of people would be able to connect the dots. But that didn't stop them from trying to do what they could to make Naruto's life better such as leaving birthday gifts at his front door, making sure to keep him in free ramen coupons, and hell Jiraiya had bought Naruto's apartment building. While he still paid rent it was all going into a high yield bank account that Naruto would receive upon making it to jounin or he learned the truth whichever came first.
Pushing such thoughts aside he took the cap with him as he made his way outside the village. Once outside the Main Gate of the village he summoned Pakkun, one of his nin-dog.
"Hey Kakashi, long time no see," the small pug like dog said in his rough voice.
"Sorry Pakkun no time for pleasantries," Kakashi said while kneeling down, he then pulled out the cap presenting it to the summons, "Here take a whiff of this, I need you to follow the scent."
"No problem, but who are we looking for," the dog asked.
"Sensei's Legacy," whispered a pessimistic Kakashi, particularly considering that searchers have been looking since yesterday with no sign of Naruto and he feared that he was no longer among the living.
Pakkun nodding in understanding took off in the direction of the scent trail with Kakashi close behind. They quickly arrived at the place where the kidnapper tried to ambush the children. Arriving Pakkun began sniffing around then said," I have seven scents here Kakashi."
"Seven," Kakashi asked trying to figure out which was which based on what the Hokage had told him.
"Yep," Pakkun said, then he begsn trying to explain what it was he was smelling," I have one that based on the amount of things he marked was probably here the longest, it also disappears at the water line with Naruto's scent. I have three others two arrived here with Naruto but left with an unknown person back to Kohona and the last two arrived from different directions and met here then split up, one went up river the other back into the forest."
Kakashi took it all in and thought," According to what the Hokage told me the ambusher and Naruto fell into the river. Ok so that means the three that headed to the village was the chunin Iruka and the two girls. The one that headed up river must be Naruto's teacher Mizuki and the other I don't know perhaps one of the other teachers." Believing he had a clear picture of what happened he told his theory to Pakkun and that they are going to head up river.
Pakkun said matter-of-factly," I don't need to tell you my nose isn't going to be a whole lot of good if Naruto never left the river right Kakashi?"
"Let's not think like that Pakkun," he responed, and then looked up at the approaching clouds, "besides it's all we can do. In the end, once it rains any traces of him will be lost."
Both then proceeded east down the center of the river at full speed trusting that the pug's nose will be able to pick up a trail despite how dark it was getting. A short time later the nin–dog came to a halt and began moving to the northern riverbank. Seeing Kakashi come up behind Pakkun stated, "Naruto left the river here." Pulling out a glow road Kakashi cracked it and kneeled down inspecting the riverbank but he saw no sign that anyone had been there.
Looking at Pakkun who had moved onto dry land he asked," Are you sure?"
"Definitely," he responded," Also the teacher, Mizuki, was here and both scents head in the direction of Kohona."
Standing back up, Kakashi ordered, "Alright lead the way."
Following the scent trail, the pair arrived a short time later at a clearing where the nin-dog stopped and began moving around the area picking up the different scents. Looking up he said, "They both passed through this area, but after Naruto reached here he begins to head away from the village."
Looking around with the glow stick Kakashi still saw no sign that anybody had passed through the area. That fact bothered him greatly. Why was there no sign of Naruto passing through the area? Also why after reaching this area did he begin to head away from Kohona? What was it he was not seeing?
Suddenly he heard, "Hey Kakashi come here."
Rousing from his thoughts he made his way over to the small dog who was rifling through some bushes, "What is it?" he asked.
"There's a kunai in these bushes." The summons replied.
"I'm not surprised, this forest is probably filled with them," Kakashi stated.
"Yeah but this one has Mizuki's scent," counters Pakkun, "as well as the smell of Naruto's blood."
"What!" Kakashi exclaimed. Searching the bush he careful pulled out the kunai in question. Moving it under the glow rod he examined it and let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. There wasn't enough blood on the kunai for it to have been a debilitating hit. Instead only one side of the edge was coated it probably only grazed him.
Thinking aloud Kakashi asked, "What happened out here?"
"I don't know," Pakkun said," but whatever did go down Naruto begins to head east away from the village and Mizuki continues to head toward it."
"Forget Mizuki for now." Looking up at the ominous clouds, Kakashi stated with growing concern," We have to keep after Naruto."
"Roger," Pakkun then took off in the direction Naruto headed towards with Kakashi right behind him. Racing the impending rain they make it to a road and then follow it to the north where Pakkun stopped them at a trading outpost. Kakashi tells the dog to search inside while he questioned the guard, who looked to be on the verge of sleeping. Questioning the guard proved to be a waste of time. He was apparently as observant as he was diligent in his duties, that was to say he saw nothing. Seeing Pakkun returning he turned to the pug asking hopefully, "Is he here?"
"He was," Pakkun replied, "however I lost him back by where the merchants park their wagons. Considering there is no scent of him leaving the outpost he probably jumped into one of the wagons as it left and before you ask the only way I'll be able to pick up his scent again is if he gets off or he is close enough that the wind carries it to me. We'd have to pick the right road to follow especially, considering the turnover of this place I doubt many of the merchants from this morning are still here."
"I could summon the rest of the pack, to search each of the roa…," however Kakashi left the rest unsaid as he lost his race with nature as the heavens unleash its fury as it began to rain.
Pakkun seeing Kakashi looking depressed tried to cheer him up by point out that even if it hadn't started to rain it still would have been a long shot. They would have had to search every wagon they came across since so many of them were carrying items that would of masked Naruto's scent among them. Also the boy was still alive at least.
Kakashi recognizing what his summons was trying to do, gave a weak eye smile to let Pakkun know he appreciated it. Telling the dog he could return to his home he watched as the dog disappeared into smoke. Alone in front of the outpost a single thought passed through his head, "I'm sorry sensei. I couldn't protect your legacy."
Standing there he was abruptly over taken by an incredible feeling of rage as his hands closed into fists so tight his knuckles turned white. It may only be backed by circumstantial evidence, but he knew Mizuki was behind Naruto's leaving the village. He would get to the bottom of it and when he had enough proof his vengeance on the chunin would be swift and complete. But first, he would have to tell the Hokage that he had lost Naruto's trail. So turning back to the village he sent a silent prayer that Kami would watch over his sensei's son.
Naruto was currently sitting in the woods near a village called Pelican Bay, it was a small port town located in the Land of Water. Helping Akihiro unload his wagon after they arrived at Port City the merchant had given Naruto a few ryo claiming he did more work than he ate. Leaving the man's company he had snuck onto the ship that the peaches were loaded onto knowing that Akihiro had sold them to the ship's captain for a nice profit and that the ship was heading to the Land of Water. After sneaking off the ship upon its docking Naruto had been surprised at what he saw. Apparently, this country was rather poor when compared with the Land of Fire. Also, everything appeared run down and there were lots of homeless orphans running around which made it easy for him to blend in. Unfortunately the town's people did not take kindly to these children because in order to survive they often needed to resort to stealing.
Naruto had tried to make friends with some of them but they all had refused. Probably because having him around would be another mouth to feed and considering they barely had enough for themselves they kept their distance. After someone had tried to press him into joining his gang as a pickpocket Naruto had moved to the forest surrounding the town.
Several weeks had passed since he had left Konoha he really missed the Old Man. He also often found himself thinking about Hinata and Sakura. He wondered if they thought about him and if they missed him. He was doing so now while sitting in some bushes. He had set up several traps to catch some food and was watching one of them now. He was just glad that he had read the books by Kumo Grills about how to survive in the wild. He had already made a shelter and while crude it kept him warm at night. He really wished that he had paid more attention in geography class. He didn't know how bad the winters got in the Land of Water considering all he had on was a orange vest, blue shirt , and orange pants it could get very dicey for him if the winters were serve.
His stomach growled to let its displeasure known at the lack of food in it. It had been about a day in a half since he had eaten anything really substantial. When he had first entered the woods he had been able to catch varies small animals to eat thanks to the traps he had set. However apparently the animals knew to stay away from this area now, luckily there was still varies foliage he could eat. But, he was primarily a meat eater, well technically a ramen eater, so that for him was a last resort.
Naruto sat up a little straighter when he heard a twig snap, looking around he spotted a rabbit with white fur coming towards his snare trap. He briefly wondered at why this one was white when all the other ones he ate were brown but since they probably tasted the same he didn't really care. The rabbit, unaware that it was being watched by a pair of ravenous blue eyes, slowly made its way to the bait. As the rabbit edged closer and closer Naruto smile grew bigger, also he began to drool.
Right before the rabbit would trigger the trap it stopped and inspected the bait however as if it didn't trust the free meal began to back off. Naruto seeing dinner leaving burst out of the bushes and screamed, "Get in my belly rabbit."
Regrettably for him in his zest to catch the rabbit he took the shortest path which was a straight line but seeing as how that line took him right over his own trap he was quickly propelled upwards into the trees upside down. Seeing the rabbit now make its way back towards the bait to eat he told it, "I'll get you next time you varmint."
Hearing a soft laugh, he looked in the direction it came from and saw a young person coming out of the same bushes the rabbit did. Naruto looked at the person who was trying not to laugh too hard at his predicament decided to ask, "Would you mind helping me down? All the blood rushing to my head is making me dizzy."
The person moved to where the rope was tied off and after undoing the knot slowly lowered him to the ground. Once on the ground Naruto assumed a sitting position and said, "Thanks if you hadn't come along I'd probably be there for days. My name's Naruto."
"It's nice to meet you Naruto, I'm Haku. What were you doing up there?"
"Trying to catch something," Naruto said while smiling.
Giving a smile in return Haku stated with some mirth, "Well it appears you succeeded although most people refrain from catching themselves."
Naruto pouted a little at the joke at his expense while saying," Yeah my prey is clever it lured me into my own trap.' While talking to Haku the rabbit made its way towards them Naruto seeing this waited until it was close enough then springs towards it. Haku seeing Naruto sudden movement jumped back slightly but seeing his target quickly grabbed him by the wrist and told him, "Please don't attack Mr. Whiskers."
Naruto surprised at the strength in Haku's grip stopped his charge. Once Haku saw Naruto stop he let go of him. Naruto began to rub his wrist saying, "You're really strong for a girl."
Haku sighed at once again being confused for a female set Naruto straight, "I'm a boy."
"Really?"
Haku nodded his head yes. Naruto put his hand behind his head while apologizing, "Sorry it's just you're prettier than some girls I've seen."
Haku smiled and said," Its ok you're not the first and I doubt you'll be the last."
Naruto's stomach upset at its plight being ignored decided to make its presence known and growled loudly. Looking sheepish Naruto asked, "Are you sure we can't eat the rabbit?"
"Yes," Haku said quickly but seeing Naruto sad look suggested," however if you want, it is almost time for me to prepare dinner and I'm sure Zabuza wouldn't be to upset if I made a little extra for you."
"Really," Naruto asked perking up at the idea of food, "You're the best Haku."
With that said Haku scooped up Mr. Whiskers and they make their way back to his and Zabuza's camp. On the way Haku thought, "Maybe Zabuza will let him stay with us? It would be nice to have a friend."
Zabuza Momochi, 'Demon of Hidden Mist", was sitting near a campfire waiting for his associate Haku to return. The boy had been playing with that stupid rabbit of his when it had run off. He still did not know why he allowed Haku to keep it. He figured maybe it would come in use one day like he could use it for the substitution jutsu. Putting such thoughts aside Zabuza thought about the future, he and Haku were heading to the town Pelican Bay. He had a contact there who would smuggle them onto a ship heading for Tea Country. It had gotten too dangerous to remain in the Land of Water; they had just narrowly avoided some hunter-nin who had located their old hideout.
Also, now that Haku was showing some real promise it was time to start hiring out their services so he could begin building funds for his next attempt on the 4th Mizukage. Hearing footsteps he instinctually grabbed his sword, 'The Executioners' Blade', especially due to the fact that if it was Haku he wasn't alone. Haku came out of the brush first holding the rabbit followed by a dirty blonde haired boy wearing an awful lot of orange.
Zabuza addressing Haku said, "If you keep bring back strays every time you go off into the woods alone I'm going to have to tie a leash around you."
Haku at least had the decency to look abashed at his words considering it was almost like how Haku had sprung the rabbit on him the first time.
"I'm sorry Zabuza, however I would like it if Naruto here could travel with us," Haku said calmly. The truth was on the walk back to camp they had shared stories about themselves and he felt a kinship with his fellow outcast.
"Tell him to get lost Haku, I'm not running a babysitting service," Zabuza said sternly.
"Please Zabuza, I know he will be of use to you," a pleading Haku asked. Zabuza arches a figurative eyebrow at this, during the year they have been together Haku would always accept his word as law never once questioning it. Why was it so important to him this boy travel with them?
"Come here boy." Zabuza commanded.
Naruto who was hiding partially behind Haku moved in front of the man holding a great big blade. While Haku led him to the camp Naruto had told him the tale of how he had come to be in the forest. However he had left out the part with the red chakra afraid that whatever had made the adults of the Leaf Village so afraid of him was that and if others knew about it they would fear him too.
Zabuza looking down at the undersize boy had very high doubts that he will be anywhere near as useful as Haku. His face clearly showed this so Haku speaks up, "Go ahead Naruto tell him how you defeated the ninja who attacked your friends."
"You took down a fully trained shinobi I doubt that shrimp," stated Zabuza his voice full of mirth at the idea.
"I did so," responded Naruto angry at being called a liar, "He may have been focused on my friend at the time so he never saw it coming but I beat him so there."
"Tell me how it went down then," Zabuza said still amused.
Naruto then went into how the ninja came, threatening to take Hinata Hyuuga and how after making the ninja believe he had killed him stabbed him in the back with both of them falling into the river. While only a half truth, since the only part he left out was the red chakra, neither Zabuza nor Haku were able to detect the deception.
"Let's just say I believe your story. You're a long way from the Leaf, why aren't you at home being celebrated as a hero then boy?" asked Zabuza.
Naruto told them about his teacher Mizuki's betrayal and also how most of the adults treated him as if he didn't exist for as long as he could remember. However Zabuza remained unconvinced at Naruto's future usefulness so deciding not to bring him with he said, "You can stay and eat with us but in the morning we're leaving and you are not coming with."
"But Zabuza…"
"Quiet Haku," he said cutting off Haku's protest," the boy got lucky that's all. You heard him he was only in the Leaf's academy for six months. Whoever this ninja he killed was made the mistake of dropping his guard and the pipsqueak her simple capitalized on that." Haku simple looked at Zabuza with disappointment, causing him to question his decision considering losing Haku's trust would hurt his future plans. Suddenly a large shout of, "You can go to hell," caught their attention.
Naruto had been sad at being told he couldn't travel with them after all Haku said his master was strong and he still wanted to learn how to be a shinobi. However the way Zabuza spoke of him pissed him off so after he shouted he went on saying, "Yeah I got lucky against the bastard that attacked me and my friends and I haven't been properly trained, but one day I'm going to be Hokage. I don't need you. I'll find a way to make my dream come true, believe it."
Zabuza was impressed with the boy's spirit and looking at him he saw the steel in the boy's eyes. But all he said was, "Hokage… Ha don't make me laugh kid you've been run out of your village. You admit no one acknowledged you and you think you can become one of the most powerful shinobi in the ninja world."
Naruto undeterred simple continued to glare at Zabuza while countering, "I said it and I'm not going to back down. I'm going to get stronger and then one day I'll go back to the village to kick Mizuki's ass. Just you watch one day Naruto Uzumaki will be the Hokage of the Village Hidden in the Leaves."
Zabuza admired the kid's guts to stand up for himself against him. It's a quality that he had always admired in ninja and this kid had it in spades. So he thought, "Perhaps this boy will be of some use after all."
Aloud he said, "I imagine they taught you how to gather chakra at the academy?" seeing the boy nod he continued, "Then I want you to gather as much chakra as you can."
Naruto formed the hand sign and began to gather all his chakra. Zabuza's eyes widen as the boy began to glow with it as he quickly gathered enough chakra to put several chunin to shame. When the boy finally stopped Zabuza looked at Haku and said, "You were right, he will prove to be very useful to me."
Turning back to address Naruto he said, "I've changed my mind boy, if you desire you can travel with us. However I'll tell you the same thing I told Haku. I'm not looking for companionship you are nothing but a weapon that I will forge and once you have helped me to achieve my ambition you'll be free to leave to achieve your own, am I clear."
Naruto knew in order to become stronger he would need someone to teach him but asked, "What do you want to do that you need my help?"
"I want to kill the 4th Mizukage," Zabuza answered, "if you can help me to achieve that goal you'll be recognized as strong enough to be at the level of a Kage."
Naruto thought it over for a minute but then stuck his hand out and said, "I'll do my best to be one of your weapons, Zabuza-sensei."
"Don't call me that brat, just Zabuza is fine."
Haku having begun to make dinner after Zabuza changed his mind informed them that it was ready. So the three of them gathered around the fire each contemplating the role the others would play in each of their futures. Naruto about having a sensei who would help him achieve his goal of being Hokage and a friend in Haku. Haku began to wonder if there was more to his existence than to simple being a weapon. Finally Zabuza who after seeing Naruto amazing chakra capacity at only six imagined himself one step closer to killing the bastard of a Mizukage and avenging his own sensei. The three ate in silence and then turned in, for at dawn they would sneak into the town for a ship to Tea. Zabuza last thought before closing his eyes for a light sleep was, "That boy is the key to fulfilling my dream, well done Haku, you found a true diamond in the rough in that one."
Hinata was sitting in Iruka-sensei's class as he gave a lecture on the founding of the Leaf Village. She was sitting next to her best friend Sakura which was the only bright spot that came from the kidnapping attempt on her a few weeks ago. While she had missed the rest of the week following the attempt she had returned only to see Mizuki had been replaced. She had been glad for that considering she blamed her old teacher for his role in what had happened. According to her father Mizuki should have made sure all the children had been protected. She had even heard that he had been demoted to genin for his screw-up, she hoped it was true.
Watching Iruka she was sure that Naruto would have liked having him as a teacher. Thinking of the blonde brought the old familiar pain that it was her fault he wasn't here today. Sakura had continued to try to convince her it wasn't, something she was grateful to the pink-haired girl for, but she just couldn't help it. Also, as no new searches had been conducted for Naruto today the pain had intensified due to her believing another life had been lost in exchange for hers. However, as the anguish of her thoughts began to overwhelm her to the point that she was about to break down and cry in the middle of class a memory of Naruto came to her. It was from their first week at the academy for a preliminary test on their shuriken technique. Naruto had missed all ten targets while Hinata had only missed five. Naruto determined to get better had stayed after class, and probably all night for Hinata had watched for hours before she had to go home, practicing. The next day when the other kids came into class seeing a dirty Naruto wearing the same clothes most of them had mocked him. Later that day they had gone outside to do the test again however this time Naruto managed to hit four targets. The kids teased him again because while he improved he had still hit the lowest amount of targets in the class. While he was still sad at being teased Hinata had saw something pass through his eyes, joy. He may have hit the fewest targets but he had improved and that is what mattered to him so it was no surprise to her when after class he went right out onto the shuriken field to practice some more.
As the memory faded Hinata resolved that she would follow Naruto's example. She may be weak and worthless now but she would dedicate the rest of her life to becoming stronger. Tuning back in she heard Iruka speaking about the 1st Hokage.
"That's it," she thought having a little epiphany, "I'll become Hokage."
That way she would be able to fulfill, in proxy, the dream of the boy she so admired and also with the power of the Hokage's office she would be able stop the Caged Bird Seal from being used by the Hyuuga Main House. Thereby ensuring her uncle didn't die for nothing and hopefully erasing the growing hatred between the two houses. Her course set, Hinata began listening to the lecture in earnest after all the Hokage had to be a master in all fields, even history.
As the sun set on another day the 3rd Hokage sat at his desk and he was presently looking at the file of the ninja who had attempted to kidnap Hinata, the missing-nin Hajime Moy. While he could not prove it he believed that this attempt had been sponsored by the Raikage despite Moy's status as a missing-nin. He would of course send a strongly worded message about making sure he kept his eyes off the Hyuuga but in the interest of ensuring the peace that would be as far as it went. Sometimes in his weaker moments he wished Danzou would have been chosen to be Hokage instead of him; however he knew the path that the village would have been led down would have insured its destruction so he always quickly reigned in such thoughts.
As he closed the file he sighed in frustration, for all the power he possessed he continuously found himself compromising on to many fronts. Naruto unfortunately being the most pressing of them, all of the boy's life the Hokage had been trying to balance what was best for Naruto against what was best for the village. However, as recent events could attest Naruto had too often been the one getting the short end of the stick. Despite knowing the he was still alive due to Kakashi's report no massive hunt would be undertaken. Sarutobi could not risk that the other hidden villages would guess as to Naruto's importance thus would try to locate him themselves to use as a weapon. Also, if word of Naruto's survival spread it may prompt Danzou to capture him for his own ends. No it was probably best for both the village and Naruto if only he and a few trusted people knew the truth. So the search for him would be handled like any other case of a missing child a few fliers spread throughout the land with his description and that would be it.
A choice that may have cost him the respect of one of his most trusted Anbu, upon hearing his decision Kakashi had almost quit right there to go looking for him on his own. Only the assurance that he would be allowed to discreetly look for leads had kept him in the village. Kami only knows how Jiraiya would respond when word reached him. Perhaps he should have allowed Jiraiya to take the child with him on his travels even though Naruto may have turned out to be a raging pervert he at least would have been showed the affection he deserved. However, the need for Jiraiya's spy network had been to pressing and thus once again the needs of Kohona trumped those of Naruto.
Lastly there was the Mizuki matter, another area where he and Kakashi had butted heads lately. While he agreed with Kakashi's theory that Mizuki was responsible for Naruto's running away the lack of direct evidence would not allow him to take action. Kakashi had been adamant about trying to force the confession out of him by turning him over to one of the rising stars in the Torture and Interrogation Department who was said to be able to crack a person through mind games alone. But, without the evidence to substantiate such a measure even if Ibiki could make him sing like a canary once the case went to trial the confession would be thrown out. Sarutobi decided to confront Mizuki to try and get him to slip up. So with Kakashi in the background silently intimidating him Sarutobi had questioned him. However the chunin hadn't even batted an eye and had even admitted to handling the kunai with Naruto's blood but had disregarded its importance to the search. When Kakashi asked why his was the only scent on it besides Naruto's. Mizuki hadn't even hesitated when he responded that perhaps Naruto had cut himself on it after all the boy was quite clumsy at times. So with their strongest piece of evidence not even being able to link Mizuki to Naruto directly he was forced to let him leave. But, not before he told Mizuki his final ruling on his suspension not only would he be permanently removed from the academy as an instructor but he was being demoted to genin. At this Mizuki had tried to argue but he had simply stated to the former chunin that apparently his decision making abilities have been compromised leading him to no longer be able to perform his duties to the standards that the rank demanded.
Dismissing them both, with little doubt that Kakashi was going to make Mizuki's life a living hell, Sarutobi began to finish his paperwork. Awoken from his thoughts by his secretary poking her head in to tell him she was going home for the night, she also told him he should do the same considering the number of late nights that he had been putting in lately. With a promise that he would leave soon he wished her a good night and finished the last file. Getting up and hearing his joints protest from sitting at his desk to long he headed off to another person he felt the need to apologize too.
Meanwhile in a hidden underground chamber at the compound owned by an elder of Kohona who went by the name Danzou a man with no name knelt before his master.
"Report," demanded the crippled elder.
"The last of the Hokage's search parties looking for the jinchuriki has reported in. They have found no sign of it," responded the man in an emotionless voice.
"What of Kakashi has he been a part of any of the search parties since after the day of the incident?" Danzou asked.
"No sir, however with the Inuzuka being cured of their poison there was no need for him to continue, not to mention the storm."
"True, however the jinchuriki has always had a soft spot in Sarutobi's heart the idea that he would just give up on him implies something," Danzou mused.
The man knowing his master was not addressing him remained quiet. Danzou sat there and thinks, analyzing what he knew of his philosophical rival until he came to one solution and course of action.
"Send out several of my best trackers to look for the jinchuriki tell them to take as long as needed to track it down and capture it," Danzou ordered. He had come to the conclusion that Sarutobi knew the boy was alive and to prevent Danzou from learning of this the Hokage is trying to play it that the boy drowned when in fact he ran away. A perfect opportunity to abduct the jinchuriki and turn it into the weapon it should have already been. The man knowing he has been dismissed despite not really understanding why his master would tie up his best trackers looking for a boy that probably drowned left to fulfill his orders.
Sarutobi having left the tower made his way to a safe house near the Yamanaka flower shop; he had set it up six and a half years previously. Walking inside he bypassed the seals on the door restricting access to him and only a few of his most trusted associates and Anbu. Walking inside he acknowledged the salutes from the Anbu on guard and made his way to the master bedroom passing the nurse on duty. There in the master bedroom lying in the bed is a woman with red hair. She had been laying here for six and a half years ever since the Kyuubi attack to be exact. After the stress of having given birth and then receiving news about the death of her husband her psyche snapped she then attempted to kill her own child believing him to be the creature he contained.
He and the others such as Jiraiya had attempted to calm her but the only thing that had a lasting effect was a genjutsu, in which a wife never lost a husband and a child had not had a burden of such magnitude placed on him and the three of them were able to live happily together. They have tried to wake her a few times from the illusionary world however her consciousness clings to it with all the desperation of a drowning man holding onto a life preserve. Consequently, the woman laid here a prisoner of her own mind preferring it to the reality she would otherwise half to face. Although, Sarutobi knew that if she was well she would of expected him to watch over her son far better than he had, so bowing slightly to the sleeping woman he said, "I'm sorry…Kushina."