Greetings once again my faithful readers, to another chapter of 'The Nine'. As you well know, I worked long and hard for the last chapter so hopefully I don't work myself too hard to get this one done huh? Depends on how things unfold! Thanks so much for the support guys. It's really helping me along. I don't own 'Naruto' though I'm sure we'll all get a good deal on the books and DVDs when Kishimoto finally finished it. Enjoy!
"Iii" = speech
Iii = thought
Chapter 3: The Lady in Red
Sasuke dreaded having to show up at his father's office while on duty, even though the older man knew it was him behind the mask. Still, the youngest Uchiha jumped from roof to roof with practiced ease as he headed for the district in which his clan resided. His passage overhead was more or less ignored or unobserved, a darting blur of color and motion too fast for the average eye to track. Finding his father's office rather easily, nestled in the third floor of a tall administrator's building standing a bit higher than most around it halfway between the Hokage tower and the Uchiha district. Having the authority to bypass formality and just come right in, Sasuke paused just long enough to cast a transportation jutsu to land him in the middle of the office floor, some distance from his father's desk. In a blink of an eye and a puff of smoke, Sasuke found himself indoors and staring at his father's hunched form. The elder Uchiha blinked at the intrusion as he looked up, his writing brush held in mid-stroke over some report or other. The man appeared about to smile at his son when he noted he still had his ANBU mask on, but kept his voice friendly. "Ah, Hawk. What can I do for the ANBU today?"
Voice devoid of emotion, back straight and professional, Sasuke greeted his father with proper respect. "Pardon my intrusion Uchiha-sama, but the Hokage has asked for information on any vacant houses within your district to safe house the Tanuki and Fox demon and their party."
Confused, Fugaku frowned at him, putting his brush down to look at his masked son with a more focused gaze. "Fox? The one Kakashi was sent to find? He's here?"
"Yes, and he has agreed to stay in Konoha for until the situation is resolved. Lady Tsunade has asked me to confer with you on where to place them once the tanuki demon has recovered enough to be discharged from the hospital. What the kitsune will decide is not known to me." Sasuke admitted, watching his father sit back in his chair, appearing thoughtful.
"And the tanuki… what of his two siblings?"
The younger Uchiha shook his head. "From what I've gathered, they are humans who may be of oni lineage but never exhibited any abilities. Either way, the kitsune seems to trust them and they seem like very capable ninja." He paused, adding on with some caution in his voice. "I'm operating under the impression that Tsunade-sama is taking extra precautions in terms of their stay here should the tanuki's attackers reappear."
Behind his desk, Fugaku nodded, also seeing reason in this. "Hmm and she's right to think that. This attack on the Kazekage's son was unexpected and shocking. It's only right to safeguard the fox demon as well, especially if he's able to bring the other clans into ending this." He too paused, looking right at his son carefully. "Has he agreed to do such a thing?"
"He has, though he stated it would take time. Also that not all the clans would agree but if not them, we could count on his assistance regardless." Sasuke stated, shaking his head at his father with regret. "That was all I heard Dad."
"I understand Sasuke and I'm glad you told him. Alright, give me an hour and I'll have that information ready." Smiling at his son, Fugaku pointed to the couch against the wall. "Go ahead and sit while you wait. I'll have my assistant get us some tea."
"Thanks." Sasuke responded, before heading to the couch as offered, bodily falling on it while taking his mask off.
Fugaku only smiled at his son's antics. "Of course son." Turning away he called over to the door, where his assistant sat on the other side. "Yuki, could you come in here please?"
The click of heels filled the quiet as the door opened within seconds, the kind brunette woman in her slimming black dress entered. A kind smile on her face, Yuki looked at her employer inquisitively. "Yes Uchiha-sama?"
"Bring some fresh tea for me and our guest. Also, bring me the district roster and plans for review. Be sure they're all recent as well as accurate." He paused, blinking in epiphany before he added. "Matter of fact, grab a tea of your own and you can help."
"At once Uchiha-sama." The woman said, smiling as she left, leaving the pair alone once again to parts unknown. For a moment, the two shared an uneasy silence. After a while, Fugaku broke the quiet.
"How's the shoulder today?"
Sasuke glanced back at his father before returning his focus to the ceiling above. "It's fine, no pain at all. Finally stopped aching yesterday, especially when I moved. I had Tsunade-sama look at it this morning and she said I was fine." Sensing he was being watched, he turned his head again to frown at his father who was looking at him intently. "I really am fine Dad."
"That's good. Your mother will be pleased to hear that when we get home tonight."
"All the more reason to have me, and not you, look after Makoto more when they come over to visit. At least he's stopped trying to take the tip of my nose off." The young man said as he sat up to give his father a meaningful look.
Chuckling, Fugaku smiled as he seemed far off in memory. "I think I remember a certain baby boy who did the same thing to me."
"Not funny Dad." Sasuke growled out, though it had no bite for he was smiling over it too. "Does he pull your hair like he's going to rip it out?"
"Yes, as I'm sure he does to you on occasion." "I almost have the sense to find an ice pack once he let's go."
"On that we can agree." Sasuke said, nodding slowly just as Yuki returned with books and scrolls with a tray of tea mugs balanced on top.
"The documents you asked for Uchiha-sama." She said, trying to not sound like she was straining to hold the weight of the documents.
Both men were up and taking some of the load, Sasuke the tray and Fugaku at least half of the books. Yuki gave them both a look of appreciation as Fugaku spoke, heading for the large table by the couch. "Thank you Yuki. Let's start with the northern end and go from there."
Naruto stayed in the hospital room for close to forty-five minutes before finally leaving to let the other demon rest. Upon exiting, the cat-masked ANBU kunoichi seemed to glance at him from the shadows of her guise as he stepped out into the hall. Taking her scrutiny in stride, instead of ignoring her, he looked at her with honest curiosity on his face. "Pardon, but where is the cafeteria?"
If the woman was startled at him addressing her, she didn't show it as she responded after a moment, polite in giving the blonde the answer. "On the second floor, two floors below us Uzumaki-sama. Simply take the elevator down, take the first hall to your left and don't stop until you come to the double doors on the right. Should you get lost, simply ask any of the staff for help."
"Thank you, that's most helpful. Be sure to tell Tsunade-sama that's where I can be found should she or anyone else have need of me before I return." He said, giving her a nod of appreciation.
The kunoichi nodded in turn but otherwise didn't move. "Of course Uzumaki-sama."
The blonde demon smiled at her, truly appreciative of her compliance as he walked away, heading back the curious contraption known simply as the elevator. Before coming to Konoha he'd only heard of such things. He knew of the telegraph, the radio and even the phone, but the elevator was a new one. Another oddity was something called the television, a box made of metal, plastic and glass that had images and sound coming from it. But Naruto wasn't completely ignorant of such things. He'd gone to see a film or two to see what the hype was about. Some of them were of good make, others with interesting plots. After a few outings of watching different films, Naruto found he liked the more classic stories better than anything more suited to a younger, more recent demographic. True the people in them were beautiful and well put together but the plot usually ended up being something that didn't interest him at all. Between films or even plays, Naruto looked into books. Being perfectly literate, the blonde demon would find himself perusing the various stores along his travels, often looking at newly reprinted classics rather than anything from the more diverse genres. His one major mistake was picking up something called 'Icha Icha Paradise', confused by the odd picture upon the orange hardcover as he'd flipped it open. Only when he was a page or two in did he snap the book shut and put it back on the shelf with as much composure as he could muster to avoid embarrassing himself in the crowded store. Never before had he read such blatant drivel and had avoided the book series since.
The thought of the book sent a shiver through him, helping him shake the memory as he stood before the elevator door, waiting for the metal box to come to his level. Once it did, the door opened to reveal that several people were inside, one or two moving to get out. Polite as ever, Naruto moved to let them exit before going in himself, settling near the button panel to press the one labeled 'two'. If anyone was upset by it, they didn't show it as they all stood in the silence that came down on them. Even more so, no one seemed bothered that Naruto not only had a bag but a hat on his back, clearly ready for travel. When the doors finally opened, the blonde waited for others to leave, giving them kind smiles as he let them pass before leaving after them, again moving to let others by that were heading in. as the doors closed behind him, the blonde demon looked about before doing as the kunoichi had suggested and went to his left but keeping an eye on the doors to his right. After walking nearly all the way down, he found them in a smaller hallway, one of the doors already open to reveal a large room full of tables and chairs and the occasional person or group seated in various places. Some appeared to be medics having lunch while others were likely visitors, all sitting about in idle conversation. Looking again to his left, Naruto saw there was indeed food, all in large dishes with ladles or other instruments to retrieve the item of choice. At the end of the barely existing line of people were a pile of trays, which Naruto walked up and picked one off the top.
His sharp eyes helped him quickly scan his array of choices without looking odd or holding up the line that may form behind him, choosing some beef stew coupled with a fresh biscuit stuffed with some butter that was sure to melt perfectly into the soft bread once he sat down. Offsetting his choices with a warm green tea, a small salad as well as a small square of yellow cake with white glaze (desserts were a rare treat for him), Naruto made his way to the cashier waiting for him. The woman standing there smiled at him before scanning his tray, the blonde taking the time to grab a pair of chopsticks and some napkins from the tins next to the register. As he did so, the woman, a young russet brunette, told him how much he needed to pay for his food, watching patiently as the blonde man pulled a change purse from up his sleeve. Since he rarely left the country, he definitely had Fire Country currency, handing the woman a rather clean bill as pay.
Taking the bill, the woman quickly and expertly stuffed the piece of colored paper into the drawer before pulling out a different one, and some coins, using the bill to hold the coins as she handed them to him. "Your change, sir."
"Thank you. Pleasant day to you."
"Why thank you!" the woman said as he left to find a seat, only taking absent note of how she blushed in his wake. Having seen his own reflection, often in a mirror or a puddle, ever since he was a child, and seeing other men of 'handsome' features, Naruto saw himself as average at best. Being who he was, Naruto had very little interactions with women other than his mother and what few of his friends growing up who'd been girls. Being what he was, Naruto highly doubted once the woman at the register knew he was a demon that she'd be interested in him for very long. A fact Naruto was more than accustomed and barely reacted to anymore.
Finding a seat by the windows was easy since most weren't occupied by those who wanted to stay in the shade to avoid the oppressive sun. Naruto, on the other hand, needed the heat since being inside for so long in such a well insulated space was hindering his body's ability to retain heat properly. Another fact about his life, mostly from spending more often than not, a very good majority of the past ten years or so outside or without proper shelter. If there was shelter to be had, it was either too far away or the humans there wanted little to do with him and would boldly shun him. sitting down well into the light of the sun's rays, Naruto pulled his chopsticks apart and dug into the beef stew once assured it wasn't too hot for him to eat. Finding a rather impressive piece of meat, he let it be accompanied by a piece of cool lettuce or a mushy piece of carrot. He was halfway through the brew when a familiar voice spoke to him from across the table. "You certainly don't waste time getting settled."
"Hatake-san, I thought you left for the day." Naruto stated as the one eyed ninja nodded at his words.
"My team and I already gave our report to Tsunade so I'm free to do as I please." He said lazily, shrugging off the fact he'd remained in the hospital.
A smile spread across Naruto's face, friendly and amused by the man. "So you came to check on me?"
"You caught me." Kakashi returned with a light chuckle, indicating the empty chair across from Naruto. "May I sit?"
"Please. Are you not hungry?" Naruto asked before taking another bite of stew bits, using the biscuit to scoop up the gravy as a chaser.
Now seated across from him, Kakashi shook his head at the question. "That's fine, I've got a lunch date."
"Oh? And who is the lucky lady?" the blonde demon inquired, blue eyes watching the older shinobi carefully before his smile took on an impish quality. "Unless it's a man?"
The blush that spread across what little of Kakashi's face that was visible, tinged his skin a light pink as the man laughed nervously. "You're oddly perceptive."
Naruto waved the man's concerns away, chuckling his sympathy. "Just observant. And only because your pulse gave you away."
"You mean my heartbeat." Kakashi pointed out, the change of subject distracting him easily from the man's discovery.
"Yes but don't worry Hatake-san, I don't listen that closely all the time. Think of it as a radio station that comes and goes. I only receive it unless I concentrate hard enough."
"And yet it seems like you put little effort into it."
Again Naruto nodded, taking another bite of his biscuit, having finished the stew and was ready for the salad as he spoke rather absently. "It may seem so but that comes from years of practice, same as you doing the signs for a jutsu with little thought. You don't think, you just do it and it happens. Very similar."
Kakashi's one eye narrowed thoughtfully at the comparison. "So I see. Is that how you sensed that so many of our people were surrounding you?"
"Yes and no." looking up from his food again, Naruto smiled once more but with a more playful twist on the expression. "Be careful Hatake-san, keep asking such questions and I'll start to suspect I'm being interrogated."
"My apologies, I was merely trying to sate my curiosity." Kakashi stated, raising his hands in surrender before turning to a more serious point of discussion. "Has Gaara-san been able to tell you anything new?"
For the first time, Naruto frowned, his eyes troubled. "Sadly no, he says his memories of the attack are still blurred. Likely from adrenaline and fatigue, maybe even injury. Perhaps when he's well again he can tell us more. For now, it's best not to push him. He still tires easily and prolonged conversation takes up most of his energy." Glancing up at the shinobi he asked rather pointedly. "Hoping the people who attacked him are in your infamous 'bingo' book?"
"You know about that?"
The blonde demon nodded, a bit of cool lettuce vanishing into his mouth. "I heard things during my travels. Mostly from ninja trying to track some target or other and thought I might have seen them. I rarely do, considering how and where I travel."
"Have you ever met such people?" Kakashi found himself asking, honestly curious. The demon had been reported to wander all over, never really stopping for more than a few days before leaving again. It was certain he'd met some interesting people along the way.
Naruto didn't seem all that bothered by the question, as if speaking of the weather or the latest harvest. "Only when they're brave, or more rather foolish, enough to try and attack me." He shrugged, bringing his still steaming mug of tea to his lips to sip at the contents. "Whether they survive depends on how quickly they discover their error."
The fact the man was so casual about such a thing sent chills down Kakashi's spine, making the seasoned ninja happy few were around them to overhear their conversation. "I'm sure any you met after such encounters thought twice."
"They have." Naruto said, nodding enthusiastically as if pleased with himself. "Certainly helps one enjoy the view better."
"Speaking of the view, what do you think of our village?"
Looking to his left at the large row of windows, cerulean blue eyes scanning what amount of the village roofs and trees that could be seen Naruto smiled again, this time warmly and with meaning. "It's a marvel to behold. Just by looking at it, I can tell it has a kind heart."
"A kind heart?" Kakashi asked, puzzled by the reference.
"I've been to other countries, more curiosity than necessity. Each one is different, with their own look and feel. Some are sharp, rigid yet bold. Others are soft and flowing but lack any true sense of belonging. Here? There is no doubt. Anyone who comes here will find it's just as the rest of the world should be and not how it really is. A kindness is all about, an undeniable warmth to help you feel at home but without fully shielding you from the harshness of reality. Contradicting I'm sure but to me, it makes sense."
"No you're right. It's the core of our village that our people grow and live without knowing the horrors of war and relentless training. But in the end, even they can't escape that being a shinobi is dangerous and can be costly. We lose them to missions or injury rather than war and betrayal. I think our village's founders would be pleased to know you see our village the way that you do."
Turning back to his food tray with a shrug, Naruto finished the remains of his biscuit and salad in patient bites. "Either way, I'm sure they got to see their dreams realized and were comfortable leaving it in such capable hands."
Also turning away from the view, Kakashi took a moment to ponder his words. "You mean Tsunade-hime? Yes, being the granddaughter of the First, she has taken on the mantle of power with grace. On top of that, she retains her presence with the people rather than hiding in her office all day long."
"I'm certain if he could see her now, he would be very proud." Naruto said with confidence before frowning when Kakashi pulled out a familiar book from a pouch as his back. Though the color and picture were different, Naruto knew who wrote it immediately. "Spirits above, he wrote another one?"
"Hm?" Kakashi gave the blonde demon a confused look, closing the book for a moment to glance at the front cover. Pointing at said cover of the book, the words 'Icha Icha Tactics' boldly written there, he asked. "Oh this? Yes, he did. It's quite good so far. Have you read it?"
Naruto frowned, shaking his head in distaste. "No and I'd like not to. I already made the mistake of reading another of his works."
"Mistake?" Kakashi asked, giving the blonde demon a confused look.
The blonde's expression only soured even more. "Yes, a big one. I barely got past the first five pages it made me ill. How you can possibly read it is hard to believe."
Suddenly excited, Kakashi leaned forward, anticipating the man's answer. "Which one was it? Paradise or Violence?"
"Paradise, though I'm not sure why it had a shelf of its own. I only picked it up since the picture on the front confused me." Naruto shivered as he sipped at his tea again. "Several moments of time I'll never get back."
"Wasn't there a sign saying why they had their own section?"
Gazing off to the side in thought, Kakashi's heart soared when he finally nodded. "Hmm I think so. Something to do with it being the 'special edition' of the book or something. But I'd moved on to another genre by then. I've taken no interest in it since."
"Do you remember what shop you were in when you saw it?"
Frowning still but at least one of sympathy, Naruto shook his head again. "You'll not have much luck seeing as how I returned a month later and all the books were gone. I did, however, find a copy on a rogue ninja who tried to rob me." He said, taking in the shinobi's wide eyed gaze. "I've had it for months and have no use for it. I'd have sold it but I'm well known in certain areas. From the look on your face, you wish to have it."
Kakashi had to force his voice to remain calm and polite to avoid bursting with happiness. "If you'd be so kind."
Naruto smiled, chuckling low in his throat at the man's eagerness barely hidden behind a polite expression. Apparently having the item he greatly desired within his reach was testing his restraint. Pulling his rucksack off the floor, Naruto pulled the bag open to reach inside, his seeking hand quickly finding the small stack of books he always kept at the leather bottom to best protect them from weather and dirt. Grabbing them all, he brought them into the open to read the spines, easily spotting the orange book amidst his more demurely colored collection. Using his extra hand to slide it out of the stack, Naruto smiled a little wider as he handed the book off to a clearly awestruck Kakashi. "There you are: Make-Out Paradise, the extended edition I believe it says. And as you can see, still in fairly good condition. Why it's to your liking I'll probably never understand."
"Thank you Uzumaki-sama. I'd have gotten it myself but I'd yet to find it." he said as he took the book, gazing at it almost reverently. "Thank you."
"Well since you're thanking me, take this one too." Naruto added, slipping another of the books from the stack, still in very good condition like the first.
Confused, Kakashi accepted the elegant hardcover, bound in grey and navy blue with its title in faded silver leaf. What little he could make out told him the genre. "A mystery novel?" he asked in puzzlement, opening the book to the still crisp title page. What he saw there made him blink his surprise as he read it aloud. "'Mysteries of the Demon Daimyo's Mansion: The Complete Collection of Tales, Stories and Parables'. And it's the third edition? This is obviously a rare book, especially amidst humans. Why give it to me?"
Bemused, Naruto smiled kindly at the silver haired man as he stuffed the rest of the books back into his bag. "Just something to peruse should you tire of that compilation of absurdity you call a book series. I found it in my family's book collection once when I was… at least twelve. One turn of the page and I was hooked. It's a rather interesting read."
"But to give something that's clearly meant for oni society to a human? Surely that's breaking a rule or two."
"I'm not breaking any laws, neither are you, not when I own the book. The copy I found was first edition and very fragile. My father bought me that when I left home to wander about the human side of the country. You could say it's been my constant companion ever since."
Again Kakashi blinked, awed by the gesture. "And you're alright with me having it?"
Naruto nodded once more in turn. "For a time, hopefully long enough to show you there's more to the lands of fiction than…that. There aren't a lot of oni writings. It's mostly family genealogies and laws, the occasional land deed or population rates, that sort of thing. Very official things, data mostly. Dry and boring, and none of it interesting to a young child looking for something to do when his parents have no time for him. As rare as this book is, finding a good read is rarer still." He paused, watching the shinobi seated across from him with a trusting expression. "I've come to know you to be an honorable man Hatake-san. I know when I can trust someone with a treasured keepsake, which you can return at any time."
"Thank you, I'll be sure to look at it. Your father sounds like a kind man. Have you spoken to him or the rest of your family in the last few years?"
At that, Naruto's expression lost some of its vibrance, looking away to rearrange his tray so that the piece of cake was the center of attention. "I have, mostly through messages or special… means. The only time I went back was to attend my father's last days."
Immediately Kakashi winced, having the mind to put both of the books in his hands away as he spoke. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring up anything bad."
Naruto waved away his apology. "No, nothing bad. My father was a vibrant and loving person, but he had enemies that wouldn't rest until he was dead. Their last attempt involved poison and our healer failed to account for an added ingredient in the toxin. I rushed home as fast as I was able. He held on for nearly a week before passing. The same healer worked himself half to death just trying to undo his mistake, for which neither I nor my mother blamed him for. At the end, my father felt no pain, held no malice."
"He sounds like a noble person. I regret never meeting him." Kakashi said, and he meant it. For someone to have a son like Naruto was someone worth knowing.
A sad smile came onto the blonde's face, a slow nod accompanying it. "You would've become fast friends. He was truly a noble man indeed and in more than just name. My mother nearly fell into the abyss of depression over losing him. But it was her love for our people and for me that kept her from it, and to keep me from unleashing my rage on those who'd brought him to such an end."
"What did happen to the persons who poisoned him? If you don't mind my asking."
"Simple, I did my duty as the new lord of the Kitsune: I confronted them and their errors against my clan."
Leader of the Kitsune? His father was the daimyo of the Demon Fox clan? Kakashi had to hide his shock at this information, for he'd had a good idea of how high in demon society Naruto must be, but to be that high? It rocked him to the point he almost couldn't say. "And judging that you still live, you succeeded."
Naruto waved away the statement, using the fork he'd had the mind to grab to take a small corner off the yellow cake cube. "Nothing so brash as to incite a full-scale war, no. I simply forewent formality and put things in clear, simple turns that such things would stop and never occur again. For if their aim was to destroy my clan, they nearly succeeded for they'd done what they shouldn't have: they broke my mother's heart."
"Sounds like a very serious crime. Facing you as I did over a week ago, I know for a fact that angering you isn't wise." Kakashi stated, his spine chilling a little at the memory.
"Very true but you were honest with me, so you live." Naruto said, giving the man a reassuring look that such wouldn't occur again before he continued, the bit of cake vanishing into his mouth. "Several of them tried to lie, and I struck them down for it. I was not merciful about it either. If my mother had followed me, I wouldn't have been able to look at her. Unlike most demons, I actually try to keep my more base urges at bay. In this one instance, I didn't."
Kakashi nodded as he mulled over the blonde's words, his sharp gaze finding they were mostly the only two people in the room by now. They'd kept their voices low so it was safe to say no one else was listening. Still, the shinobi didn't hide his amusement at the thought of Naruto holding the room with a look. "I suppose few took their chances after that hm?"
"Very few, none in fact. I'm fairly certain a guard by the door wet himself but no one dared bring it up and I didn't acknowledge it, out of sympathy I suppose. They were quite apt to my words after that."
"What did you say?"
Taking another large bite of the cake, Naruto chewed and swallowed with endless patience the like Kakashi had never seen. "I told them that such quarrels couldn't be tolerated when such an age was past us and though they might still happen, that using something as harsh as poison was a step too far. To deny even a lord who's never seen battle in his life the honor of a quick death is unacceptable, as it was for my father. I stated that the only way I would forgive this transgression was if they told me who had ordered it and that any remaining family didn't attempt revenge for the rest of eternity." He paused for some of his tea, again patient in his consumption of it before he went on. "Naturally they didn't want to betray him but in the end they didn't have to: he stepped forward and proclaimed that he was avenging old wounds. I called him stupid and backwards in his thinking. I told him such times for petty things were gone and that the only way this would end was if everyone accepted that fact."
"Did they? That sounds like a lot to demand of such people who've been living in the old ways for so long."
"The time for change was overdue and I told them this. I put out a call that all of the lords were to reexamine how they ruled and interacted with the other clans if they wanted to keep their seats as clan heads. I even offered them to hold contests of skill, wit and strength if their rivalries with each other meant so much. So long as the trials were held one-on-one and were fair, and preferably that no one died, it was allowed. A few stepped down to give their seats to their sons, some of whom were quite ready for the position. Those that knew none of their children were ready eventually conceded to the idea." He proceeded to take another piece of the cake, his story keeping his delight for the treat off his face. "The leader of the clan that'd ordered my father's death also gave his seat to his son, though he was too young to have it. I saw an opportunity in this."
Confused, Kakashi gave the blonde a curious look. "What kind? How old was his son? How long ago was this?"
Swallowing the cake, Naruto paused as if in thought. "Eight years ago, and the child was but nine or so, barely able to understand what was happening. I told his father that before I killed him, that I promised to watch over his kin as if they were mine, to be loved and respected as if my own siblings even after they grew to take their positions in their clan. I told him that my mother, the very person he'd wounded most, would see to this for she longed for life to return to our house. I then declared my mother the head of the family, as was her right and I a bit too young to take over myself. My last act as temporary head was to make what I'd declared universal law to all clans, in all the nations if accepted."
Kakashi watched the blonde as he once again poked at his cake, the slice now at least half gone as the silver haired jounin stared, flabbergasted that this one person had done so much to change his own society like he did. "That's…that's amazing! I heard there was a sudden drop in demon clan skirmishes in the last decade but to think you and your father were responsible? I almost can't wrap my head around it!"
"It's true, every word. Once I finished, I killed the former clan head, clean, quick and efficiently. As was his right, the boy was given a choice and he chose not to witness it. They spoke in private about the new future before parting. My last gift to the boy before sending him to my family lands was his father's swords and my regrets that our family feud had ended the way it did. He said he hated me and ran off crying." Naruto said absently, as if vaguely saddened by his past interaction with the child.
Only Kakashi knew that such pain had faded to only appear minor at this point, giving the blonde a sympathetic look. "It was a lot to take in, even for a small boy, and you did just kill his father after all."
Nodding, his expression subdued as he continued to speak distantly. "True but when I returned a few years back between my wanderings, he said he forgave me and wished to fulfill his own promise by ensuring peace between our families remained even long after we were dead. I spent nearly six months being with him, coming to know him as I should've and finding that my decision to take him in was a wise one. I've since promised to return and see him take his father's seat."
"A great honor, for you both I'm sure." Kakashi responded appraisingly.
Finally Naruto nodded, if a bit sadly. "That it will be."
Before more could be said, the cat-masked kunoichi appeared next to the table, her shadow casting a dark pillar between them. Ignoring Kakashi, the woman looked right at Naruto and spoke in the same kind politeness from earlier. "Uzumaki-sama, Tsunade-sama has requested to see you back in Sabaku-sama's room at the earliest convenience."
"Oh? Back already? Time truly does fly it seems." The blonde eventually nodded at her, speaking politely in turn. "Tell Hokage-sama I'll be there shortly. Believe it or not this cake is quite delicious. Have you tried it yet?"
Taken aback by the question, the woman faltered. "I… I have not, Uzumaki-sama."
"You should, the glaze accents it perfectly. Makes you wonder what recipe they used." The blonde demon muttered mostly to himself before realizing the two were staring at him over his odd words. Smiling bashfully, the blonde demon quickly added. "Sorry, treats like this are rare for me. You may go."
"Yes sir, and thank you sir. I'll try and get some at another time." The cat-masked ANBU said before vanishing as she'd come, Naruto looking almost sad for some reason.
"Nice young lady. She must be new to be so clean."
Puzzled, Kakashi tilted his head at the man, wondering what he meant. "Clean?"
"She doesn't smell like blood yet. At least not as much as you of course, Hatake-san." Naruto stated rather bluntly, stabbing the last chunk of cake on the small plate to cut it in half so to eat it better. "A shame that has to change. I hope her personality doesn't suffer for it."
Kakashi found he had nothing to say to that, instead watching the blonde finish his dessert in silence, drinking up the last of his tea before collecting up his tray. In response to the blonde's moves he got up with him, ever pondering what kind of person the man could've been if his life had taken a different course. Looking down at the book still in his hand, the green cover emblazoned with the title and the featureless man crouched in thought on whether or not to give his heart to another. Letting out a sigh, Kakashi stuffed the book into the pouch where he'd put the others and followed the blonde out of the cafeteria. In all likelihood, he'd be assigned to deal with the redhead and his family anyway, since he already had prior experience with Naruto though he heard that Gaara had overreacted a bit upon coming to the hospital. As he followed the blonde to the elevator, Kakashi hoped that such things wouldn't happen on his watch.
Sasuke wasn't sure what to think of the blonde demon, but knew better than to let his curiosity distract him. Once again in the Sabaku hospital suite, the raven-haired ANBU kept his focus on Tsunade as she looked over the scroll he'd given her. A scroll he and his father had personally worked on for the full hour he'd been gone, watching the woman's hazel eyes scan the neat writing upon the sheet of paper. With Yuki's help, he and his father had narrowed down the choices to a few small houses either in the middle or near the edge of the Uchiha district, nearly all of the houses surrounding them full of shinobi who would be ready to react at a moment's notice. But his father had said that it was safer to keep their new guests closer to more seasoned ninja rather than the families in their clan who didn't have the same skill level as him and Itachi. Sasuke had been a little hurt when not included in such a list, Yuki watching them both from her spot around the table, ready to leave should things get tense.
Instead his father had only said. "I only say that because you're in a league of your own and though it's true you've yet to reach Itachi's level, I no longer see any point in pushing you into it before you're ready. You'll get there son, but only when you're ready and not before. But I'm not about to discount you as skilled, you just serve the village more than you serve our clan which is why Itachi is on that list and not you. Think of yourself as a backup should we fail where you probably won't."
"Are you ill? Or did Mom put something in your food again?" Sasuke joked, giving his father an amused smile though the man's words inwardly pleased him.
Shocked, Fugaku stared at his son in bewilderment. "What? I speak the truth! And don't bring your mother into this! Why? What's she been doing to my food?"
"Nothing in particular." The ANBU said casually, though the smile that persisted gave him away.
"Don't joke about this you imp! Tell me!" Fugaku demanded, seeming to forget where he was as he practically pounced at the other man, pulling him into a headlock.
Caught off guard, Sasuke gripped his father's arm to try and pull out without hurting the man. "Ow! Dammit Dad are you even trying to focus on work anymore?"
Fugaku responded with a triumphant grin, tightening his grip a bit to put his point across as he chortled almost evilly. "Not until my son tells me what dirty secret he's been helping his mother keep from me!"
"Then why don't you ask her when we get home and not—ow! Ow!" Sasuke couldn't help but cry out as his father proceeded to rub a closed fist onto the top of his head, the sensation less than pleasant. Finally he called to his only ally in the room. "Yuki, some help here!"
Looking on, trying not to laugh, the brunette did control her amusement long enough to scold her boss on his actions. "Uchiha-sama, you may be taking that a bit far. I'm certain that our coworkers can hear you."
Blinking at this, Fugaku let Sasuke go who straightened, finger combing his hair back into place while giving the woman a grateful look. "Ah yes, you're right Yuki-san." He turned to Sasuke with a determined look in his eye. "This isn't over."
"Sure it isn't. Doesn't mean mom's just gonna fess up though." Sasuke responded, not bothering to rub in his victory as he turned back to the part of the scroll map he'd been eyeing before their antics started. "Anyway, what about these buildings here?"
Back on track, Fugaku's expression had sobered again, looking at the maps and documents with his usual grim intensity that he gave all his work. Off to the side, Yuki smiled at Sasuke at their success before they finally finished up close to fifteen minutes later. The scroll finished and dry, Fugaku had given it to Sasuke just after he put his mask back on, Yuki exiting just quickly enough to appear like a casual departure. An opportunity Fugaku seemed to take when Sasuke reached for the scroll but found his father wouldn't let go. Confused, he looked at the man curiously, surprised to find a look of regret on his patriarch's features.
"Dad?"
For the first time in ages, Fugaku had a look of regret on his face, expression sad and eyes distant. "I know you must hate me for how I treated you as a child, especially when Itachi began to rebel against my expectations. Ours is a noble clan, and thus demands we ask a bit too much of our children so they can surpass us and keep our clan in the minds of our enemies and allies alike. But in seeking a legacy, I failed as a father."
A bit surprised by this confession, Sasuke recovered quickly, shaking his head at his father's words. "It's okay Dad, you don't have to keep trying to apologize. I already forgave you."
"Y-you have? Since when?" Fugaku asked, appearing stunned.
"Since you started calling me 'son' again." The ANBU stated, sending the older man into further shock to where his jaw dropped open. "Since you started treating me like a person again, and since you stopped acting like having two sons as prodigies meant we had to be tools for our clans' future. I especially forgave you when you started to return to your old self again."
After a moment or two, Fugaku could only stand and stare at the masked man before him he knew to be his son. When he did find his voice, it came in a soft whisper. "Sasuke…."
"The scroll, Uchiha-sama." Sasuke responded, his own tone back to being polite and emotionless, as expected of the ANBU.
The spell broken, Fugaku blinked quickly as he let his hand fall. "Right, of course." He managed to say as he watched his son stuff the scroll away. As he turned to leave, Fugaku called to him one last time. "Until later Sasuke."
His back to his father, Sasuke paused long enough to respond. "Later Dad." And in a small puff of smoke he was gone.
Now standing in the same hospital room as before, Sasuke continued to eye his leader carefully for her thoughts while trying to ignore the blonde demon's scrutiny. Since reappearing, the blonde and his old teacher Kakashi had followed suit, Naruto glancing between him and Tsunade for information. Finally Tsunade answered for him and the Sand Siblings to hear, Gaara watching from the bed with a tired look in his eyes. "My guard has returned with the data I asked for which I was just about to review. I trust you'll want to know the findings."
"I do. Any information that assists my student is of great interest to me."
Student? Right, it's only right that someone with one of the demon weapons has a teacher of some kind on how to wield the damn thing. Then again Gaara did call him 'sensei' before I left. Sasuke thought but kept quiet as he watched the woman come to the end of the scroll, handing the other end to the blonde to read in turn. While Tsunade seemed to skim over the writings, Naruto seemed to practically inhale them, his shockingly cerulean blue eyes darting over line after line with such speed and accuracy that he finished the scroll much faster than Tsunade had. After a moment he rolled up the scroll and handed it back to the woman, his face a calculating mask. "Much of this information is helpful, though some of the placements could endanger people unaware of Gaara's abilities."
"Endanger them? How?" Tsunade inquired, even the siblings sharing her look of puzzlement at what Naruto meant.
His face grim, Naruto went on almost tirelessly. "Gaara's powers are strong for someone his age, and because he's still so young, control is sometimes hard to find. He needs either drugs or meditation to sleep but mostly the latter for power control training, which will require lots of open ground with few of the populace to end up in the crossfire. All of which I can oversee myself but for it to work we must be in close proximity, preferably in houses that conjoin in some way. I saw only one on the scroll that fit that description and it appears closest to the clan leader's residence."
"And the training areas? We have plenty to choose from and all are quite spacious." The Lady Hokage retorted easily enough, her mind already trying to work past the new barriers the blonde was putting in her way.
"True but in order to keep Gaara from his fear of overdoing it they must be fairly isolated and therefore away from anyone who may not be able to escape in time." The blonde stated, his face telling them all he was as serious as he was regretful for making things more complicated than they already were. "Demon powers are unlike that of which you're aware of Hokage-sama, so I heavily caution you to heed my words on this. I had to do the exact same thing as I came into my abilities. In the Wind Country, Gaara had no such concerns for the deserts there are vast and empty, here there are people, animals and the occasional traveler. One session is but a thought away from disaster."
"I see your point. Alright, I'll do what I can on the training areas but I do agree on the housing. According to this, you and your company would be surrounded by many capable ninja who can defend you should the need arise. Any others can be assigned as guards along the home's perimeter." Tsunade stated, her mind already cataloging the new tasks ahead of her all the while hoping the man before her was satisfied with the one she'd just suggested.
The blonde demon pondered this a moment before nodding. "A wise choice Hokage-sama. Another would to be certain that Gaara, his siblings and I know these shinobi well enough to know if they're imposters. Though your guard had that advantage, Gaara and his family didn't. I'll understand if you say no but it's still a possibility that someone may attempt to attack him or me same as before."
Tsunade frowned at this but knew the man, like any other leader, was only being cautious about things, again deciding to humor him. "Again I can't readily agree to that but I appreciate your understanding. We must prepare for such things if this is to work. In the meantime, you should get to know your new lodgings until Gaara is ready to be moved."
"I agree. If I'm to do my duties, I must know your village. The security approved areas of course." Naruto stated casually, giving the older woman before him a reassuring smile that he wasn't about to cause trouble.
Satisfied they'd come to some agreement, Tsunade nodded before turning to Sasuke. "Of course. Hawk, you're free for the rest of the day. Guide our guest to his new lodgings."
"Yes Hokage-sama." He stated, turning to leave as he indicated the door politely to his new escort. "This way sir."
Naruto smiled, doing as he was bid before turning back to Kakashi who'd been listening from a corner of the room. "Until another time Hatake-san. Best get going or you'll be late for you lunch date!"
The pair left quick enough to hear the jounin's amused laugh before the door slid shut, the hawk-masked ANBU adding to his new companion. "There's no point. He'll just show up late anyway. It's his habit."
"An odd habit to have. I trust my guide has a name?" Naruto inquired as they headed down the hall, easily heading for the now empty elevator.
Still speaking past his mask so not to give his face away too early to any of the observant masses, the raven-haired man still answered in the quiet of the elevator as it took them down to the lobby. "Sasuke Uchiha. And my old teacher likes to show up late on purpose. Angered Sakura to no end every time, you could almost swear he was useless. I just thought he was an idiot."
Like he seemed to take most things, Naruto nodded sagely at this information, taking the man's words in stride. "I see. Well then Uchiha-san, what can you tell me about this Fugaku-sama?"
"He's my father." Sasuke deadpanned as the doors opened, revealing a nearly empty lobby and the front doors that opened automatically. It seemed to be a modern marvel that the blonde was accustomed to for he didn't stop to gawk at it.
Instead he blinked, his hat already in place to fend off the afternoon sun. "Oh? This must be awkward then."
Turning left as the pair got into the street, Sasuke shook his head, his hair shifting with the movement. "It's fine. He's still at the office and should be for hours now. He helped with the scroll back there. It's just my mom at the house right now if she isn't at market."
"You're being oddly open with me, a stranger you've known for mere minutes. Are you attempting to find if I have underlying intentions for being here?"
"I-it's not like that Uzumaki-sama." Sasuke found himself stammering, embarrassed and blushing though he had his mask on.
The blonde waved his hand at him, smiling at the man's reaction. "Naruto, please since we're going to be neighbors. And you've no need to worry about such things Sasuke-san, my motives are focused on both humans and demons. To help one should be to help the other, not to hinder or harm. I've no mind for such trivial matters such as ancient rivalries. Some things just need to be forgiven, especially when those who started it are long dead, no?"
"That sounds like an optimistic view Uzu—I mean Naruto-san." He said, quick to correct himself as instructed.
The demon man smiled a little wider, pleased that Sasuke was humoring him. "Much better. It's true that I wish that humans and demons could be as close as most humans are with each other but one step at a time I suppose." Looking away, his blue eyes seemed to gaze at his surroundings wistfully. "The more I see this place, the more I'm impressed. Your forefathers would be proud to see it as it is."
Curious by the man's revelation, Sasuke found himself asking before he could stop the words. "You think so?"
Walking next to him, the blonde's expression took on a hint of sadness. "Only a few demon clans decided to join the hidden villages, some of these unions worked while others failed horribly. Seeing your village gives me hope that such a thing is possible for all the villages. For now, it's just another dream." They walked in silence after that, reaching the Uchiha district fairly quickly since most of the streets were empty due to the heat. Once there, Sasuke took his mask off, revealing his pale skin and dark eyes. From his right, he could feel the blonde's eyes on him but ignored him, though something about it had his heart speeding up a bit. Eventually the silence was broken by Naruto's low chuckle. "It looks as though you have an admirer Sasuke-san."
Looked to where the blonde was, Sasuke couldn't help but smile a little as he waved at the elderly woman. "Yeah that's just Uruchi oba-chan, she and Uncle Teyaki run that senbei shop. She used to give me free sweets as a kid." As they passed the old woman, he turned back to the blonde, speaking jokingly. "Her children do most of the work now but she likes to stand there and greet people. She'll probably stand there until she's dead."
"Such a kind, old soul like her?" the blonde asked, smiling in turn. "Most certainly. Truly makes me wish I knew my grandparents."
Once again taken aback by the man's response, Sasuke stared. "Did they die?"
Naruto nodded, his voice losing none of its mirth. "My grandmother has, but I think my grandfather still hangs on by a thread. Barely knew my name, much less my face. Kept calling me by my father's name, thinking I was him back from the grave." His face softened at Sasuke's regretful stare. "And no need to feel sorry. My father has been dead for years. Such pain is gone now."
"I'm still sorry to hear that Naruto-san." Sasuke admitted, the thought of anyone seeing a person who didn't know who you were paining him no less. They again walked in silence for a while before Sasuke pointed to a gate in the distance nearly in the middle of a long wall. "We're here."
"Your house?" Naruto asked, glancing between the gate and the man curiously.
Moving to take the lead, Sasuke nodded, only responded when they finally got to the gate, opening it for the both of them. "Yes, the one you selected is part of our property. We just have to pass through is all." Bidding the blonde to shut the gate after him, Sasuke was at the front door and kicking off his shoes in moments, calling into the depths of the house. "Mom I'm back! I have a guest!"
From some distance, her voice called back. "A guest? Who is it?" her voice got louder as she got closer, pausing only upon seeing the blonde man with whisker scars on his face standing in the doorway already shucking off his shoes. Blinking at his foreign features, Mikoto Uchiha did her best to recover from her surprise. "Oh! H-hello!"
Looking up from properly placing his shoes, Naruto removed his hat as he entered the house, giving her a deep bow and an open smile. "Lady Uchiha-sama, forgive my intrusion." He stated, straightening so he could speak to her in formal tones. "It's only right I inform you that the house on the other side of your property has been selected to house me and my party for the duration of our stay in your honorable village. As per the Hokage's orders, I've come to ensure the house is in order. If I may intrude upon you and your family?"
"W-why yes, of course! Come in and sit down for a while. Sasuke why don't you go change while see to… I'm sorry, what's your name?"
Again the blonde bowed but not as deeply as before, still smiling in spite of the shock felt by his hostess. "Naruto Uzumaki, at her ladyship's service. Had Sasuke-san warned me you were as kind as you were radiant, I would have much more flattering words to show my appreciation for your clan's hospitality."
Is this guy a demon or a poet? No, this guy's a sweet talker! Leave it to Tsunade to have me bring home the one man in all the country with a silver tongue in his mouth. Sasuke thought as he tried to fight down his own blush, mostly out of embarrassment at the blonde's brazen words to his mother while a part of him was confused about his reaction. It wasn't like the man was complimenting him too, with that almost sultry voice of his. What am I thinking?! Focus Sasuke! Focus! "If you'll excuse me Naruto-san. I'll be back shortly to assist you in inspecting the other half of the property."
Giving him a kind smile in turn, the blonde's eyes seemed to glimmer with amusement at the blush on the man's face. "Take your time Sasuke-san, given what time you've given to watch over my student, any respite you can get should be used wisely." Moving further into the house and into the living room, Sasuke almost rolled his eyes as the man started talking again. "You impress me Uchiha-sama! This room is bigger than most travel inn rooms I've been in!"
"Really?" Mikoto asked, honestly surprised by this information as the blonde looked about at the room.
Taking in every bit of the room, the blonde nodded, his sharp eyes absorbed every feature of the room. "Yes, though to be honest I've never been in a human house before. It's quite remarkable to me."
Confused, Mikoto stared. "Human? You're the fox demon Kakashi-sensei was sent to find?"
Brought out of his observations, Naruto frowned a little, showing some of his own surprise at her question. "So you have heard of me already? Either I'm famous or infamous if you ask me that. But yes I am. And I assure you, I'm not going to laze about like some up stuck noble. I fully intend to pull my weight in terms of chores and work."
"But Uzumaki-sama, I couldn't possibly-." Mikoto began to protest, only to find the blonde man go from friendly to stern in a flash.
"Now, now I won't stand for such protests. For once he's well enough, Gaara-kun will do the same, as will his siblings. I realize you're but one woman and adding more work could do more harm than good. Not to mention I'm accustomed to doing things myself." The blonde said informatively, giving the Uchiha matriarch no room to maneuver.
After a moment she conceded. "If you're certain."
"I'm positive. Now, enough about that. I'm eager to see your kitchen." He said, looking about as if unsure of where to go, making Mikoto to once again lead the way.
Sasuke couldn't listen after that, annoyed by the man's obvious flattery but also confused by his marveling at the 'wonders' of his house. Half walking, half marching to his room, Sasuke changed out of his ANBU gear before coming back dressed in a loose-fitting shirt and comfortable pants. Sure enough, he found the pair in the kitchen, only this time Naruto was watching with open amazement at the coffee maker. The appliance was at least ten years old but still the blonde demon seemed focused on the device as if looking away would force him to miss something. Next to him, his mother Mikoto was clearly trying not to laugh. "You've never seen one before?"
Blue eyes glued to the device as he poked it cautiously, Naruto shook his head. "No, never. At least not in the places I've been. I've seen that one device, a 'television' a few times but always at a distance. Finally got to see an elevator today, so that adds to my experience some."
"Don't your people have electricity?" Sasuke found himself asking, wondering not for the first time just how out of the times the man really was.
Finally looking away, the blonde man smiled as he turned to face his hosts again. "We do, but it's mostly for heat and lighting and little else. Anything in terms of entertainment is found in human circles since most of our culture is about training and war. A waste if you ask me. I have dealt with laundry machines so I'm not too out of touch Sasuke-san."
"Just seems odd that for someone who travels all the time isn't really all that acquainted with technology." Mikoto noted, making Naruto's face sour a little.
"Most demons shun it as a human innovation. Believe it or not I've been to several theatres, even snuck up into the projector box to look at the thing. Naturally the worker back there was less than pleased with me but was more understanding when I told him of my interest in the contraption." He stated casually before frowning. "I've even dealt with cameras. Never did like the flash needed for the picture. Always a surprise, that bright spark and that explosion, makes you see spots."
Once again trying to hide her amusement at the man's musings, Mikoto smiled at her guest kindly. "Well Naruto-sama you'll be glad to know we don't have that sort of thing here. I trust you know what a fridge is?"
"Oh yes, a remarkable thing! My mother made sure I got found a few to better store our meats when they started coming out. Does this one make ice from water?" he asked as he moved to the large metal rectangle across the room, already looking at it with a sense of wonderment to his actions.
"Why yes it does!" Mikoto said, looking back at her son with a look of delighted amusement before turning her attention back to their guest who continued to marvel at the various items of their home. In the hour or so after that, Naruto was shown new wonders like the microwave (which he learned quickly that leaving metal in it was a bad idea), the electric oven, even the dishwasher. Last and best of all, Naruto seemed to take extra fascination in the toaster, asking for a demonstration of the odd device. Mikoto had smiled, humoring the man as she got two pieces of bread, put them in the slots and set it up. After a minute or two, Naruto let out a delighted laugh when the two slices popped up, warm and light brown. The blonde demon even ate them with some butter, ever amazed by it all despite it being the middle of the afternoon. It almost distracted them from their initial task of inspecting the other house, which the trio spent nearly two hours checking every room and corner. Once they were done, it was decided to leave it for the next day, since most that needed to be done was dust, wash and replace the sheets. Back in the first house, Naruto once again insisted on helping out with dinner, allowing Sasuke to sit and read a book he'd long neglected in the living room.
After maybe nearly an hour, he was brought out of his reading by the sound of his brother's confused voice. "Sasuke, what're you doing in here? Why aren't you in the kitchen with Oka-san?" his older sibling demanded, scowling at him while Haruka looked on with equal confusion.
"I got kicked out. They don't need my help apparently." Sasuke muttered, shutting the book and sitting up.
"They? Who's in there with her?" Itachi insisted, his scowl persisting to almost a full glare at his younger sibling.
"Itachi-kun? Is that you? Come meet our guest!" Mikoto called from the kitchen over the sounds of cutlery and bubbling pots.
Even more confused, Itachi stormed forward with every intention of unleashing his inquiries when he stopped short at the door. "Guest? Who—oh! And you are?"
Turning from where he's been stirring what was likely soup, the blonde demon smiled widely at the newcomer, his whisker scars stretching with his lips. From the look of it, the sleeves of his faded blue yukata had been tied back to keep from getting in the food. "Ah, you must be Itachi-san! I'm Naruto Uzumaki, and I shall be living behind your parent's house for the time being. I'm afraid it was the only acceptable location for me and my companions once they're free to leave the hospital."
"Hospital?" Itachi repeated, dark eyes wide in surprise before turning to his mother who stood at the island counter, cutting vegetables. "Oka-san what's going on?"
Smiling at her son, Mikoto could only chuckle at his confusion. "He's the kitsune, dear. Haruka-chan, sit down already. He doesn't bite I promise."
Again responding to the appearance of another family member, Naruto smiled openly at the young woman who sat in her usual chair across from Mikoto's workspace. "Greetings Haruka-san. And who is the young man in your grasp?"
Much like Mikoto, Haruka found herself returning the smile, if nervously as she shifted the baby in her arms. "My son Makoto, and Itachi is my husband. I'm pleased to meet you Uzumaki-sama."
Suddenly the man was frowning, letting out a sigh of mock exasperation. "Now, now, I've been over this with her but I'll be kind and go over it with you: there is no point in being so formal if we're going to be living in such proximity. I insist upon being called Naruto unless under more public, formal circumstances, which this isn't." to bring his point across, he pointed his wooden, broth covered spoon at her. "Am I clear on this Haruka-san?"
"Y-yes Naruto-san." Haruka said, her smile wavering under the threat of laughter escaping from between her lips.
Naruto was smiling again, sticking the spoon back into the pot as he spoke. "Better, much better. Now sit as instructed. If I know this district as I think I do, you've walked quite a ways to get here."
"You know where we live?" Itachi asked, having moved further into the room.
"And work. I was shown the district's plans to properly calculate where it was safest for me and my students to live until the situation is concluded. It took great thought to choose the proper one."
From the door, Sasuke leaned against the frame as he gave his own bit to the conversation. "That took you all of three minutes."
"True, but my decision was no less important, neither is that of Hokage-sama." Naruto said informatively, stirring the brew before taking a small metal one and scooping some up to taste. He nodded to himself as if satisfied before he went on. "And as per her wishes, I shall remain in the village until it's safe to leave."
"Do you know how long that will be?" Itachi asked, sitting down next to his wife while keeping a curious eye on the blonde.
Naruto shook his head at this, turning away from the soup to face the group properly. "Like with all things, it's yet to be determined. But should the threat come here as feared, I shall defend all of you and this house no different than the shinobi soon to be posted outside." He then gave Mikoto a sincere look. "As I said madam, I won't be lazing about like a useless noble."
Smiling, Mikoto put her knife down and wiped some of the juices off her hands. "And I appreciate the thought Naruto-san. Now if you'd get that into the pot, we can move on to the next dish."
"As milady commands." The blonde demon responded, his own smile returning as he took the cutting board away to the soup as Mikoto moved to prepare the next task.
Practically by cue, the front door opened as the last member of the Uchiha family walked in, glancing at everyone in confusion. "Why is everyone in the kitchen? Has something—oh!"
"Hello dear, back from work already?" Mikoto greeted her husband jovially, smiling at him as welcome.
"I'm right on time, actually. Who's this?" he asked, pointing to Naruto in confusion.
Mikoto was quick to inform him, still smiling her amusement at their situation. "Fugaku, this is Naruto-san. Naruto-san, this is my husband and head of the military police, Fugaku."
Bowing at the patriarch, Naruto smiled warmly at him. "I'm pleased to meet you sir. You have a lovely home and your wife is most kind. Are you thirsty? We have fresh tea if you like."
"And I'm pleased to meet you as well but I shall forgo the tea until dinner. Why are you in my kitchen exactly?" Fugaku inquired, still appearing confused at the odd turn of events. To think he'd just been outside where everything was still normal.
"He's helping dear, in fact he insisted on it." Mikoto again informed him, watching her husband blink owlishly at her words.
Beside her, Naruto nodded in response. "That I did. Protection and housing in exchange for services. A most reasonable exchange if you ask me."
"So I see. But so quickly?" he asked, apparently still befuddled on why there was a stranger in his house, in his kitchen, helping his wife make dinner.
"Haste was needed in terms to my housing, not Gaara's though I'm told he should be ready to arrive within the week. Until then, it's just me."
A thought struck Mikoto, making her suddenly appear rushed. "Oh dear I just remembered! I left some things on the line. Can you take it from here?" she asked her assistant, who nodded his assent to her question.
"Easily enough, though we'll discover if my skill matches yours. It's been some time since I've made a meal this large but at least there's a roof over my head this time."
The Uchiha family stared at the blonde man in puzzlement, but he never bothered to explain himself as he ushered nearly everyone out, bidding Sasuke to help his mother with what little laundry was outside. Having become familiar with the small space in the short amount of time he'd been in it, Naruto gave Itachi, Haruka and Fugaku mugs of tea, politely maneuvering the family patriarch to his study, the son and daughter-in-law to the living room and the baby to his nursery until dinner. Once the laundry was in, Sasuke found an open chair in the living room to read in while his mother returned to find that most of the work had been completed while she'd been gone. All that had to be done now was oversee the finishing touches, make sure everything was cooked properly and ready before calling everyone back nearly an hour later. In some kind of strike of fortune, Naruto was willing to sit beside Makoto, separating the young babe from his uncle, who once again wailed in protest to being fed his mush. The blonde had ignored the child until a particularly loud and high pitched cry sent a shiver through everyone at the table, making them frown. Seeing that Haruka and Mikoto weren't getting anywhere, Naruto scowled in thought for a moment before something seemed to dawn on him. Waving away Haruka's apologies, the blonde demon began to search his sleeves before pulling out a small scroll, the once noble red border faded and torn on one side. Unrolling it the blonde man nicked his thumb with his tooth and laid the scroll down on an empty space on the table before smearing the fresh blood on the intricate circle in the middle. With an audible pop and a puff of smoke, tiny, three to four inch high figures appeared in the middle. Surprised by the new noise, Makoto stopped his bawling to look at what the summoning circle had produced: five in all, the figures appeared to be plush versions of foxes, dressed in varying servant attire with their equally plush tails sticking up straight as boards.
Their movements were almost mechanical in nature as their tiny heads turned to face the person who'd summoned them, appearing to look up at him in question. Giving them a light smile, the blonde demon pointed to Makoto, who was now watching the miniscule newcomers with interest. Nodding at their master, the kitsune figures seemed to march towards the high chair in which Makoto sat, one grabbing an extra chopstick to use as a makeshift bridge to the baby's mini tabletop. Once there, the figures examined the space and its contents prior to looking up at the baby who was watching them with open fascination. Surrounding the baby's bowl of food, one of the figures made an exaggerated gesture to sticking its tiny hand in, scooping some of the mush up and eating it. When it did, the figure let out a small noise of delight, speaking in high notes to its companions, pointing at the bowl excitedly. Another of the figures, knowing the baby was distracted, signaled Haruka to try and feed Makoto again as the rest seemed to be organizing themselves into some kind of contest. Thereafter, whenever one of them 'ate' from the bowl, the rest would cheer with enthusiasm with riotous noise and clapping. Giggling in response to the noise, Makoto waved his own arms around, his chubby face lifted in delight at the tiny people before him. But when Makoto was given a spoonful of the mush in turn, the tiny figures seemed to go crazy, close to ballistic when the baby boy ate it all and didn't spit it back up again.
This continued the rest of the meal, idle chatter interrupted only by the fox figures and their high pitch noise and Makoto's laughter. When all the food was gone and it was time to clean up, the figures began to slow and quiet down, appearing tired and openly yawning with their tiny mouths. Again in response, Makoto began to show signs of tiring, yawning sleepily with the figures as the adults moved around picking up dinner. Giving Naruto a look of pure amazement, Mikoto whispered so not to disturb the now quiet baby. "Naruto-san, what is all that?"
Smiling down at the figures using an extra napkin to clean up some of Makoto's mess, the blonde man answered with his own whisper. "Just something my own parents got to get me to eat my own food as a child. It's been years since they've been summoned so I think they enjoyed this greatly."
"Are they alive? I mean, they look like puppets." Sasuke pointed out, finding it just as odd that the tiny creatures appeared to be flesh but didn't at the same time.
"They are indeed, they were a gift from Chiyo-sama of the Hidden Sand. They move with their own will using the summoner's chakra and without needing to be guided. When they vanish, I guess it's like sleep to them. It's come in handy for the occasional young child I've encountered." The blonde said, chuckling low in his throat, likely at some memory of another child reacting same as Makoto had.
"Remarkable. You have my thanks Naruto-san." Haruka said happily, cradling her now peacefully sleeping baby as she and her husband stood to leave.
"Any time. Though once they appear, they can be quite stubborn. Failure doesn't seem to be an option from what memory tells me." The blonde said distractedly before shrugging it off and continuing his task, waving goodbye to the young couple and their child as they left for the night, the figures still on the table doing the same. The fox figures stayed for a while longer, taking a wash cloth from Mikoto as they cleaned off the table like one would a wooden floor, not the least bit bothered that they got dirty in the process. When it was finally clean, they gave the Uchiha matriarch a deep bow before vanishing with a loud pop and smoke, same as how they'd appeared to begin with. All that was left was the dishes and when Naruto tried to help with that as well, he was turned away, saying he'd done enough for the day, telling him to get ready for bed, same as them. Since the second house wasn't ready to live in, it was decided he have Itachi's old room, the bed given fresh sheets. Knowing when he'd been beaten, Naruto gave in and bid them goodnight, quickly bathing before vanishing into his new room. The next morning the Uchiha family was surprised to find the blonde already up and in the kitchen again, this time making breakfast. He bade them good morning and offered them some bacon and eggs, once again delighted by the toaster much to everyone's amusement. With breakfast over and cleaned up, Fugaku and Sasuke departed thereafter, one to the office and the other in uniform. Left to themselves, both Naruto and Mikoto spent the rest of the day cleaning and organizing the second house, switching and airing out sheets, banishing dust to the wind.
Dinner that night went roughly the same, save that Itachi came without Haruka since she'd caught the late shift after her spa, leaving him to tend to Makoto. Thankfully the baby boy didn't fuss as much though he seemed upset that his mother was missing but took delight in seeing Naruto again. Feeding him went more smoothly, Mikoto and Naruto working together to get the child to eat his share with little noise. The three Uchiha men took pity on them by cleaning up and doing the dishes before Itachi took his old room back for the night, Makoto in his nursery and Naruto in the house across the yard. They would've protested save that the blonde said he was accustomed to sleeping in empty places, whether the roofs were intact or not. Again this puzzled the family, but were given no chance to respond as the blonde was off again, moving as if all was normal. Come the third day, Naruto was not as cheerful but still polite, kind and helpful regardless of his darkened mood. When asked, he only said it was just his thoughts over the coming events that fouled his mind, and that he hoped nothing untoward happened. The men looked at one another, each knowing what the blonde spoke of but said nothing, eating their breakfast in silence. Once in his ANBU gear, sword and mask in place, Sasuke and Itachi both waited for the blonde to appear by the door, holding his trademark straw hat and his sword firmly tied to his hip.
Facing their companion, Itachi spoke with a note of respect. "Ready Naruto-san?"
"At my guide's discretion." He stated, voice firm and seeming to show a rare sense of authority. But the stiffness faltered as he bowed his head at his hosts. "Until this evening Mikoto-san. Fugaku-san."
Smiling sadly at him, Mikoto was clearly worried over the man she'd only known a few days. "And you, Naruto-san."
Nodding to them, the blonde demon put his hat on in silence, following the two brothers out the door and into the streets. Only when they neared the edge of the district did the two put on their masks, Naruto's face a mask of its own. The entire walk to the Hokage tower was spent in silence, the usually open blonde staring forward and with a hard look in his eyes. Getting in and past security took all but moments for the trio, the blonde demon giving those who greeted them a polite nod or a wave all the while saying nothing. His expression only changed at meeting Tsunade's right hand and assistant Shizune, who smiled warmly as she let them into the large office overlooking the village. Already gathered was Kakashi, who gave the blonde a polite nod of acknowledgement. Next to him were Sakura and Sai, both who also gave him nods and smiles of their own, which he returned. Looking up from some papers, Tsunade gave the blonde a smile of her own. "Ah, Uzumaki-sama. Now that we're all here, we can begin."
"Actually we aren't." the blonde cut in quickly, raising a hand with a frown.
Blinking, Tsunade stared for a moment. "I beg your pardon."
Waving away any concerns, Naruto spoke calm and firm. "As promised, I managed to send a message to my clan but the only way for this meeting to continue is if the clan head is present. As a mere representative, my voice only holds so much weight in the matter." Holding out a hand, he stated rather casually. "If the Lady Hokage could lend me a clean sheet of paper to use."
"By all means. Shizune?" the Hokage said, her assistant hurriedly pulling a fresh, empty piece of paper from the many, many used ones.
Clearly a bit nervous, the woman still managed to smile as she gave him what he'd requested, just as puzzled on why he wanted it. "As you requested sir."
"Thank you." Naruto said politely, pulling out what looked like an ink tube similar to Sai's, a brush following as the blonde man quickly drew lines and script all over the page. Once done, the items vanished just before he set the intricate drawing on the floor, performing hand signs too quickly for them to catch. What happened next felt like an explosion of power, contained to the several inch spot on the floor, a large plume of smoke shooting from the piece of paper like a geyser. When it dissipated, a figure stood where the now ruined sheet of paper had been, dispersing most of the smoke themselves with a fan. All in the room save Naruto couldn't help but stare in awe at the new arrival: standing nearly a head taller than Naruto, dressed in a vibrant and intricately embroidered red kimono covered in lots blossoms and a matching pale yellow obi was a woman. Her skin was naturally pink, with little makeup to accent her features, bringing out the exotic violet of her eyes. Her hair was put up in an equally intricate fashion, cherry blossom pins going nicely with her crimson red locks. Ignoring all else, the woman looked to her summoner and smiled.
"Greetings and salutations, has the time arrived?" the woman asked in a smooth voice, light in tone but heavy with an underlying power.
Bowing deeply to her, Naruto smiled brightly in response. "Greetings to you, my lady and yes, it has. This matter deserves your full attention." Turning back to the rest of the room, he pointed to the large desk where Tsunade had stood up on her shock. "I'd like you to meet my ally and hostess, Lady Tsunade, Fifth Hokage of the Hidden Leaf village."
Ignoring Tsunade's openly awed expression, the red haired woman bowed at her. "You're most kind to offer my clansman your gracious hospitality."
"The honor is ours." Tsunade barely managed to say in response, bowing in turn at the newcomer though obviously confused on just who this person was.
That is until Naruto kept talking, almost is he were a servant and not an important piece of the puzzle. "Hokage-sama, I'd like you to meet the head of the Demon Fox clan, Kushina Uzumaki." The smile that came onto his face was soft, matching the woman's perfectly. "My mother."
Bombshell! Then again, I'm sure everybody knew that was coming. No? Well then joke's on you! A little longer than the last one but still totally worth it. Either way I thank you all for your support and the next chapter should be coming soon. Granted I don't get distracted first. Ooh shiny! No, not really but maybe. Anyway, here's what's next:
Next:
Chapter 4: The Decision
The Fox Demon head and heir confer in the Hokage's office! Will Kushina move to act same as Naruto, or deny her son the support and the villages need to hunt down the hunters? Will the other clans agree? Will they even listen? Are they stopping a disaster in the making or will it just be a delaying tactic in the end? Find out when 'The Nine' returns in:
Chapter 4: The Decision!