Equinox
"Wow! Are we really gonna cross that?" Soraka looked at the extensive mountain range that encompassed most of their view. "Yes, after we cross Navori, we'll only be a couple of days from the capital." At the mention of the Ionian seat of government, Naruto grimaced. "Hey Soraka-chan..." The celestial turned to him. "What exactly will happen once we get there anyways? Do you think the elders can find a way to send me home?"
Mulling over her answer, she decided it would best to be sincere. "To be honest, I am reluctant to believe that even the elders will be able to help you..." Seeing the crestfallen look form on his face, she continued. "But that doesn't mean we cant try. Listen, the last thing I want to see is you hurt. While I do want you to remain hopeful, please steel your heart for whatever response the elders give you."
For the last couple of weeks they had been traveling across Ionia. Her charge had gradually began to offer small tidbits about himself and where he came from. A place he called the Elemental Countries. From what she had gathered thus far, he had been involved in a war that spanned the entire continent. The sorrow he carried in his voice when he spoke about it made her believe that he had lost.
Besides the war, he did make comments about how his homeland compared to Ionia. She was stunned to learn that it common for children as young as ten were forced to fight. He had quickly assured her that didn't happen so much anymore, but she still had her doubts. He had also explained the way his worlds 'Hidden Villages' worked. To her it sounded like the feud between Demacia and Noxus, but on a global scale.
The only thing that really bothered her was how he seemed to skirt away from his personal life or anything having to do with it. It was obvious to her from the beginning that the boy in front of her must of suffered extraordinary loses to avoid the subject with such eagerness. The only things she knew about Uzumaki Naruto was his name and age. She knew enough about his home to picture how it functioned, but the celestial couldn't say that she was actually knew the boy himself.
Contrarily, she had shared whatever she could with him. She told him how she had never left the Astral Forest until a couple of years ago. They conversed about how she traveled all of Ionia, gaining fame for her actions. She also described to him the way she became something of a legend around Ionia and its outer islands. No matter what she told him, he seemed interested to learn whatever he could about her. However, when she mentioned her peculiar love of banana's, he refused to look her in the eye for a couple of hours.
Feeling her shoulder being nudged, the Starchild turned to her charge. "So, how we gonna cross that giant mountain anyway? I don't see a bridge or anything?" He could likely traverse it while carrying Soraka on his back, but he didn't want to show off any of his talents. Pointing to a distant village on one of the ridge's many plateaus, the healer responded to his previous question.
"Although it may not look it, the interior of the Navori Mountains are mostly hollow. If we proceed through that small village, there is a pathway that will lead directly through."
Taking in the considerable size of the mountain, Naruto looked skeptical. "Are you sure? It looks like we'll be in there for a long time."
Looking at his face, Soraka giggled as his squinted eyes made him look like one of the foxes of southern Ionia. "Believe it or not, people actually live within the mountains. We're in no real danger while we navigate through Navori." He didn't seem too ecstatic to be navigating through the center of a mountain, but he accepted her explanation anyway.
Resuming their journey, the duo continued on in silence.
"Again!"
Obeying the sergeants command, the young woman swung her blade through an imaginary foe. The numerous beads of sweat that trailed down her forehead showed her obvious exhaustion. Spotting a possible weak-link, the platoon instructor marched up to the solider and leaned into her ear.
"Again!"
Without missing a beat, the sword sliced through the air with a barely audible swish.. Analyzing the form of the warrior before him. The sergeant took a position no more than an arms length in front of the woman.
"Again..."
Though his command was whispered, the entire squad repeated the same motion simultaneously. Standing straight with hands intermingled behind his back, the instructors eye's glanced to the weapon that was parallel to his neck. Looking past the blade, he looked into the soldiers veridian eye's. While he continued his observation. The woman stood, unflinching. The only thing that existed was her and the enemy. Nodding his head, the man made a sharp facing movement and proceeded to the front of the platoon.
"Recover!"
Sheathing their weapons, the group before him took a knee and awaited further instruction The instructor studied the men and women before him before finally speaking.
"Remember... A practitioner of a thousand skills will always be defeated by a master of one!"
A loud chorus of agreement assaulted his ears. Smirking in satisfaction, the sergeant issued one last command.
"Dismissed!"
Arising from her position, the woman started her trek back home.
"Welcome home, daughter. I trust that your weekly training went well?"
Laying her weapon to the side as she settled before her father. The brunette nodded in response to his inquiry. Grabbing one of the cups before her, the ebony haired woman prepared to pour herself some tea.
"I see... very well, tomorrow morning we will spar to see just what the guard is being taught these days. Does that sound agreeable to you, Irelia?"
Setting her cup down, Irelia released a content sigh. She relaxed a bit as the heat from her beverage spread throughout her body. Refocusing of her father, she gave her answer, "Yes father, I shall be up when the sun rises."
Running his hand through his silvery beard, Lito looked out the window. Watching as the light of the sun receded beneath the horizon. Following the light as it faded into darkness, the elderly man went silent. Finishing her cup of tea, Irelia looked upon her only parent to see that his gaze was still locked to the horizon. Turning her head to take in the view, she raised an eyebrow in confusion. Curving her neck to glance back at Lito, Irelia wondered why he had such an intense look in his coal like eye's.
"Father? Are you alright?"the old man blinked as the concerned voice of his child reached his ears.
"Yes. Why do you ask?"
"You were scowling at the darkness outside." Taking a moment to gather his bearings, he looked back into her eye's before responding.
"I am fine daughter, you have nothing to worry about."
"Are you sure father you..." Cutting off his daughter before she could finish, Lito asked a question of his own.
"By the way, where is that brother of yours? I know he isn't in the same regiment as you, but he should have been home by now."
Pushing the fact that her father had interrupted her to the back of her mind, Irelia thought about where her brother could be.
"I'm not sure? The only thing Zelos told me was that he had to report to the Placidium for some type of
assembly."
"Yes, I remember now..." Lito nodded his head as he recalled the reason why the captain of the Ionian guard had called an emergency meeting. Laying his eye's on his daughter, he decided that she deserved to know what the future could bring.
"Irelia, do you know who is attending this gathering?"
"From what I heard, it was supposed to be only sergeants and above." Whatever they were assembling for, they deemed it too sensitive for foot-soldiers like herself to hear.
"Do you always accept what others tell you to be the truth?" Hearing the chastising tone her fathers voice took. Irelias eye's met the surface of the table.
"Always strive to find your own truth my child. No matter how elusive it may be!" Looking at his daughters bowed head, Lito already knew what her response would be.
"Yes father. Forgive me..." Before she could continue her apology, his wrinkled hand shot out and slowly raised her chin so that she could meet his gaze. "There is no need for apology child. I was simply imparting some wisdom upon you."
Seeing the earnest expression on his face, Irelia let a modest grin grace her lips. Clearing his throat, the elderly man continued were he left off.
"Anyhow... I will tell the same thing that your brother will hear. The reason the captain called an emergency meeting was to discuss a a possible threat to Ionia."
Before she could say anything, Lito raised a hand. "Do not interrupt!" Biting her lip in anxiety,
Irelia waited for her father to resume.
"Apparently there has been rumors that Noxus is getting ready to launch an offensive against us. Since the Institute of War has forbidden them from warring. Noxus has increased it's trade with us ten fold. The various elders of the other provinces fear that this may be some kind of strategy that Noxus has devised in order to scout out our defenses." Noticing the agitated look on his daughters face, he nodded to her. "You may ask what is on your mind."
Arching her head in gratitude, the young woman spoke what was on her mind. "If the elders know of the Noxians subterfuge, then why do we allow them on our land?"
"The elders 'know' nothing. All they have is conjecture and the Noxian's own bloodthirsty history. Only a fool would believe that Noxus is here on friendly terms. However, if we restricted them from entering our territory without just cause. Then we would run the risk of looking paranoid and isolationist."
"What do we do then? Just continue to let them plot against us?" Lito could hear the disbelief in her voice.
"We don't really have a choice, now do we? The only thing we can do is bolster our defenses and hope that our distrust is unfounded. That being said, I shall start teaching both you and Zelos the advanced aspects of Hiten as soon as he returns."
Shock washing across her face, Irelias eye's shot up to bore into her fathers own. "But why, we haven't been instructed in Hiten for years now!?" Throughout the years, the sole master of the Hiten style had shown his children just why his techniques were so highly coveted. It had taken them years just to master the basics.
"It must be because he truly believes that we could be going to war." It was the only logical answer she could think of. Everything her father did had a reason.
Studying his daughter as she ran through a gauntlet of emotions, the old master finally responded.
"Why? Because if you desire peace Irelia. Then you must prepare for war!"
"Hello, What brings you to our humble village Lady Soraka?" the old monk addressed the Starchild as he approached them.
While Soraka dealt with the locals, Naruto examined his surroundings. Still being In the Navori region, most of the terrain was elevated. However, unlike the other side of the mountain, this side had a more vibrant feel to it. Instead of the dense mist that rolled over the plateaus, there was an assortment of different kinds of plant life. The dull grays and brown of the mountain transformed into yellows, pinks, and a whole bunch of shades of green Naruto was sure he didn't know the name of.
"Fascinating isn't it? No matter how many forms it takes, life always seems to amaze me!"Turning to face his companion, the whiskered teen could only nod his head in agreement. Taking in more of the scenery, he could almost feel the tranquility that this village seemed to radiate.
"Soraka? I thought I sensed you. What brings you here? And who is your companion?" Turning yet again to see who had approached them. The ninja was somewhat surprised by the appearance of the woman.
The first thing he noticed was that her skin was similar to what he saw in Kumogakure. From what he had witnessed so far, the denizens of Ionia all had the same skin tone for the most part. Some had a slight tan complexion like him. However, the lady in front of him was the darkest thus far. Shaking his head, Naruto also noticed her dark eyes. Glancing downward, She was wearing what looked to be a ceremonial robe. Taking a peak at the other villagers that greeted them. He noticed that they were all wearing a variation of the same thing.
"Maybe their apart of a cult of some sort... In that case, we should brutally kill them all!" Hearing Chomei's chipper voice talk so casually about murder made Naruto's spine shiver.
"Ehhh... I don't think they're gonna attack us. Soraka-chan seems to trust them." He also couldn't sense any ill will from them either. "Were is this coming from anyways Chomei? Your usually pretty gentle."
For as long as he'd been the horned beetle's jinchūriki, he'd never heard it say anything even remotely violent.
"Well! Back when I was with Fū, she was attacked by two of those Akatsuki jerks! One of them kept talking about sacrificing her to some guy named Jashu or something... So Fū hit that guy so hard that his neck twisted a full 180 degrees! You should have heard it! The sound of his neck bones splintering as my girl's foot shattered his jaw! It was a truly marvelous sight to behold!"
Hearing a huge insect with such a high-pitched voice explain the brutal death of someone... just didn't sit right with the blonde.
"But he just stood back up and laughed at my Fū! No matter how many times she broke him, he just kept getting back up!Eventually the string guy joined in and they captured her... but the way that one guy talked was like he was in a cult! I hate cults..."
Grimacing as he realized that he had just heard how one of his fellow jinchūriki were captured. Naruto turned his attention back onto the group of monks. "I hope their 'just' monks."
As he studied the brown-skinned woman more, he also noted another quality that separated her from her peers. Putting his head down and concentrating, he let the natural energy of the world fill him.
"Just as I thought, this lady must be pretty strong!" Compared to the others, this woman practically screamed at his senses while he was in sage mode. Her fellow monks on the other hand weren't anything special.
"Excuse me." Lifting his head as he let the chakra leave him, the sage gave the woman his full attention," Huh? You talkin' to me?"
"Yes, I was. I wanted to introduce myself to you, seeing as your a friend of Sorakas. My name is Karma, how do you do?" Bowing as she introduced herself, Naruto scratched the back of his head in confusion.
"Uh, I'm Naruto. Nice to met you I guess..." Noting the boys lack of manner's, Karma continued," It is an honor to meet you. Tell me, what brings a troubled spirit such as yourself through this village?" Giving her an impassive glance, Naruto responded to her probing. "What do you mean by troubled? I feel great, ttebayo!"
Ignoring the verbal-tic, Karma dug deeper, " Please do not lie to me Naruto, I can see in your eye's that you've suffered greatly. There is a hole in your heart that if not fixed, may swallow you completely." Looking rather offended by her statement, Naruto glared at her as he tuned his back on the group. But not before leaving with the last word. "You may be Soraka-chan's friend, but don't go talking like you know anything about me! We barely just met!"
Nodding her head in agreement, Karma effortlessly rebutted his statement. "Your right, I don't know you. But if I can read you so simply, what do you think the world can see?" Gritting his teeth in annoyance, Naruto stomped off deeper into the village.
Looking back at the celestial, the monk apologized, " I'm sorry if I've angered your friend, Soraka." Shaking her head, the astral maiden stared at the back of the retreating adolescent. " You've done nothing wrong Karma. In fact, I would be happy if you kept trying to get through to him." Giving the blunette a curious glance, the young woman merely nodded her head.
"I will see what I can do, but he must want to overcome whatever ails him first. The spirit can be a very fragile thing Soraka. Nonetheless, it can also be forged to be stronger than even the most solid metals."
A loud clang rang throughout the courtyard. Pushing their swords against each other, the siblings stood in a stalemate. Neither one of them giving ground. They parted and dropped into defensive stances. Analyzing the other for any hint of an opening, the younger of the two seemed to have found her mark.
"There!" Vaulting towards her brother a speed that surprised even their father, Irelia struck with her blade in a piercing motion. In an act of desperation, Zelos placed his own weapon where he thought her own would land. Unfortunately, the elder child of Lito miscalculated and felt the immense force jab into his diaphragm . Falling to his knees as he felt the oxygen rush out his lungs, the sergeant clutched his chest in an effort to stem the pain.
"D-Damn Irea..." Coughing as his lungs struggled to take in air, Zelos glanced up as his younger sister. "What did I do to piss you off?" Dropping her previous stance, Irelia smirked down at her heaving brother in triumph.
Walking in between his children, the Hiten master judged the performance of his children. "Zelos! Though you show great power in your sword strokes, you over reach which leaves you open to a counter attack. It seems the 'style' they taught you in the guard has been too ingrained in your form!"
Looking upon his youngest however, Lito had nothing but praise. " You've seem to be taking what I taught to heart Irelia. The execution of your last Blade Surge was almost flawless." Hearing the praise she was receiving from her father filled the brunette with pride. It was uncommon for the elderly man to give any sort of compliment. He would usually focus on what they did wrong. "However... just like your brother you put too much in your strikes! Hiten is about using your opponents mistakes against them. Not pummeling them down with reckless strikes!"
Though Lito continued to list every single error they made, he was still genuinely impressed with his daughter's performance. "Even though she was clearly outmatched by his obvious experience, she never stopped struggling. The sheer will to keep fighting was what won Irelia this duel. It is because of this that I have no doubt that she will be the one to carry on my legacy."
The Moon... most found its radiant glow to be captivating. A few even worshiped it. But to the lone Uzumaki, he felt nothing but bitter loathing as he gazed up at the pale white rock. Every time he looked up at it, he was reminded of Kaguya. It felt like she looking down at him with that stoic gaze that she had. He could almost hear her mocking him.
"The efforts of your 'Shinobi Alliance' are trivial Uzumaki... all chakra will return to its rightful place."
Remembering the way she so effortlessly beat him after he got separated from his team only added fuel to the fire that was his rage.
"Either you become my plaything... or you will cease to exist. Those are your only two choices.
Looking back, everything that happened was because of Obito. The death of his parents, his shitty childhood,the Akatsuki, Madara, Kaguya! All because he so traumatized over some girl who didn't even like him! His whole entire world, destroyed by some asshole who got turned down!
"Y'know, when he puts it like that... the whole reason everything happened was because that asshole died a virgin! What a loser!" Shukaku cackled at the thought. The whole shinobi world, gone because some guy couldn't get laid!
"I don't think it was that simple, Shukaku." It just sounded too... pathetic.
"You gotta a better explanation? I'm not buyin that whole 'Uchiha legacy of hatred' bullshit! That bitch Madara was just super butthurt because he got his ass kicked. Imagine that! Getting your ass beat soooo hard, that it became a legend. HAHAHAHA!"As the Ichibi continued his cackling, the other bijū thought about what he said.
Even though Kurama usually thought that everything that came out of Shukaku's mouth was utter bullshit. He couldn't help but agree with his logic. The Uchiha were sore losers, there was no about that.
"In the end... It was him who was had the last laugh though, wasn't it?" The Octo-Bull's comment caused the mood among the others to plummet almost immediately.
"Hmm... not really. Madara was really just a pawn of Kaguya the whole time. Ironically, he was ultimately destroyed by his own plot." The room stayed silent as the bijū contemplated the fox's words.
Still ruminating over his previous thoughts. Naruto heard nothing of his tenant's conversation. Hearing a fallen branch crunch behind him, the blonde palmed the hidden knife he had picked up when Soraka wasn't watching.
"You got can re-sheath your weapon, I mean you no harm." Glancing below his position atop the tree branch, he spotted the lady from earlier. "You need something lady? I'm not exactly in the mood to argue with you right now." Giving the jinchūriki a knowing smirk, Karma responded," I would hope not, I can feel your blood lust from here."
That last comment actually made Naruto interested in what the monk had to say. Allowing himself to fall from the tree. The woman was surprised to see him land without injury. Recomposing herself, Karma quickly gauged the length of the tree before asking her question. "Are you alright, that drop was at least 20 or so feet." Looking up at the spot he had just occupied, the shinobi lazily shrugged his shoulders. "Really? Didn't feel like it."
Furrowing her brows, Karma studied the boy if front of her as if trying to find some type of clue as to who he really was. " I don't believe anyone but the ninja of the Kinkou Order could brush off a fall like that so easily. There is also the matter of his spirit. Discounting the animosity of feel poring off him, it feels way too 'heavy' to be normal." Luckily for her, his resentment didn't seemed to be aimed at anyone in the village.
Clearing her throat, the female monk revealed the true reason for her visit. "Listen, I didn't come here to discuss your apparent acrobatic ability. I came here to apologize."
This threw the blonde off-guard. "Apologize for what?" Karma stared at him for a moment before calmly blinking her eye's. "I felt as though I offended you with my statement earlier, and I wanted to make amends." Raising an eyebrow at her statement, Naruto let her continue. "However, that is not the true reason that I came hear."
Narrowing his eye's in suspicion, the lone jinchūriki addressed his visitor. "Then why did you come here? Soraka-chan already brought me some food earlier, and I don't remember telling you where I was going..."
Closing her eye's at his question, she responded,"You didn't... I asked Soraka for your whereabouts. I think you forget, she is my friend just as much as she is yours. Regardless, the reason I sought you out was to ask you for a favor."
Confusion raced across Naruto's face as he gawked at the woman. "A favor? What could I possibly do for you?"
Re-opening her eyes, Karma peered into his eye's with such intensity that he had to take a step back. "I want you to let me help you." Regaining his footing, the sage once again narrowed his eye's at the ebony woman. "Let you help me? Help me what? You guys aren't some kind of cult are you?" Recalling the Nanabi's earlier suspicious, Naruto gradually stared to distance himself from Karma.
"A cult? No, I merely wish to help you overcome your current burdens." She was confused where he got the idea of a cult from, but it wasn't important. "Remember when I said I could sense your blood lust earlier? I can also sense the anguish you try so hard to hide." He took a step back as the woman advanced towards him. "If you don't confront it, it will consume you."
Naruto was left speechless as he continued to back away from the spiritual healer. "The darkness you carry within will continue to fester..."
Getting closer, she continued, "Like a seed, it will continue to grow. Thriving on your own enmity and self-loathing until one of two things happen."
His back hitting a tree, the blonde cursed as he was left with nowhere else to go. Karma however, kept advancing. "You will end your suffering by taking your own life..." His eye's widened in shock at her words.
Now just a whisper away from each other, Karma finished her speech.
"...Or you will lash out at the only person who cares about you!" Swinging his head frantically, Naruto denied the accusation.
"I would never hurt Soraka-chan!" It was because of her that he was still alive! It was because of her that he even had any hope of returning home! It was because of her that he had a reason to live! Even if it was only temporary.
"She's also the reason why I have to live with this unbearable guilt. If she had just left me alone in that forest... I would've been with the others."
Seeing the remorse in his eye's, she knew she had him. "If not for your own sake, allow me to help you so that you don't hurt the one person who truly cares for your well being."
Diverting his eye's from her own, a reluctant look came over the jinchurikis face. "And how would you help me? Unless you know some type of jutsu that can rip holes into other places, there ain't much you can do!" A perplexed look overcame Karma's face as she thought about his last statement.
"Rip holes into other place? Jutsu? Perhaps Soraka was correct to assume this boy isn't of Runeterra". None of what the boy said made any sense to her. She would inquire about what these 'jutsu' were later. For now, she would focus on his current problem.
"I can't reverse what has befallen you, but I will help you get over the pain that dwells within you. If you can master what I have to teach you. Then you will become stronger! Both physically and spiritually! After all, if you can conquer yourself, who else could possible oppose you?"
Gazing at the purplish hues of the sky as she walked down a narrow avenue. A woman barely out of her adolescent years made her back home. It always took a considerable amount of time to reach it from the barracks where the soldiers trained. She wouldn't complain though, it was because of the military that she had her own home now. Every citizen of Noxus was conscripted into military service for at least six years. That didn't mean that they weren't compensated for their time though.
It wasn't this mandate that put her in her current position however. She actually wanted to join. The military was the only way for an orphan such as herself to become anything other than a whore or a thief. Once she had reached the minimum age, the woman was found at the recruiting station the next day. That day,she had pledged her life to the Noxian war machine, and hadn't looked back since.
Though she had been in the army for about 3 years now, the young woman had never seen any actual combat. The closest she'd been to any type of bloodshed were the few outposts she served at. Patrol duty wasn't as glorious as being on the front lines, but it was an important duty nonetheless. Though she doubted that the Demacians could ever break past their guard, it was what she was ordered to do.
Since she was still young, she wasn't really allowed to be in direct combat. It wasn't unusual to see the younger members of the army serve in other auxiliary positions. Gate guard, assistant blacksmith, even as a mess hall attendant. She had done them all with pride in her heart, for she knew that one day, it would be her leading the charge towards Noxian glory.
However, fate seemed to have other plans. A couple of months after she finally reached the age to properly soldier, that right was taken from her. The 'Institute of War' as they liked to call themselves, had made both empires sign a cease-fire. That had been a blow to the young Noxian's moral. Without conflict, how would she prove herself. The weeks after the announcement were some of the most upsetting that she had deal with for years.
She couldn't understand how Noxus could just agree to their demands. Noxus! The strongest empire that Runeterra had ever known! Stopped by a piece of legislation... It put a bad taste in her mouth any time she thought about it. After brooding about it for awhile, she had accepted that there wasn't much that her nation could do about it. Some of the strongest wizards in all of Valoran also ran the Institute of war. Defying them would only lead to a war on two fronts.
She didn't have to wallow in depression for long, however. Their had been whispers that the Noxian High-Command had an invasion in the works. It was believed that they were planning to assault the island nation of Ionia within the coming months. Nobody knew if it was fact or fiction, but the signs were there. Production of weapons and armor had increased by a least 300%. Training had been increased from 4 days a week to 6. Something was happening...
Continuing her steady pace down the crooked pathway, the young woman had a hopeful look on her face. If the gossip was to be believed, then she would finally be able to prove herself! She only hoped that the Ionians put up a decent fight. She had heard that they were weak and only cared about achieving some type of spiritual euphoria.
So caught up in her thoughts, the girl didn't even notice the group of drunks she'd brushed by. The group of intoxicated men barely noticed until one caught a look at just what had bumped into them.
"Hey! You just hit my buddy here!" She had barley touched him, but that was irrelevant. The young woman stopped in her tracks and looked over her shoulder at them.
"Sorry, I didn't see you..." Before she could continue her trek though, the group o drunkards had her surrounded. Leering at her, the man from before put his arm across her shoulder and licked his lips.
"Tis no problem lass! I'm sure we can work somthin' out. Why don't you come with us? I'm sure we can find someway for you to make it up to us." As he told her his proposal, his hand gradually slid lower until it was almost completely over her breast. He didn't get the chance to squeeze the supple flesh however.
Shrugging her shoulder to remove the mans arm, she started to walk away from the group. Gritting her teeth in silent indignation. The young woman decided it would be best if she just walked away. It was obvious they were drunk, she had smelled the alcohol before she had even turned the corner. Even if they were intoxicated, it was still strange that they approached an obvious soldier in such a way. Though she didn't have on her full uniform, her status should have been clear as day.
Barely a couple of feet away, a member of the group ran forward and gripped her arm. "Hey Bitch!Who said we was done witchu? Don turn yer back on ush!"
With her back still turned to the stranger the girl addressed the drunk, " You would be wise to release me..." The man didn't heed her warning however, and continued his intimidation. " I'll release ya once I've had ma fill!"
Not seeing the grim look that adorned her face, the man kept his harsh grip on her wrist. " I see... then there is no other way."
Before he could question what she meant, the man was flung forward as she jerked her arm away from him. Before he could protest, his world exploded in pain as the young woman's elbow crushed the cartilage of his nose. Collapsing as blood poured out his nose, the drunk could barely talk as he screamed in anguish. His blood seeping through his fingers and onto the soiled ground.
Seeing their comrade fall, the other two prepared to engage the girl. " You stupid bistch! You shoulda just played nice, now we have ta cut cha!" Pulling out a small dagger, the man charged the unarmed woman. Going for an horizontal slash that he learned when he was in the military. He expected to hear the satisfying squelch of steel cleaving through flesh.
Time seemed to slow down for him when he saw the girl effortlessly dodge his slash. Jumping forward into his guard. His mind didn't even have the chance to process what happened next. After the deviant had finished the full motion of his incredibly telegraphed attack. The woman dashed forward and counter attacked. Grabbing the arm which was meant to harm her, she twisted it before driving her elbow into the vulnerable limb . The force behind her blow was far more than what was needed to shatter his elbow. With a sicking crunch, the man grabbed his arm as the dagger fell to the street.
Seeing that he was still standing, the girl struck again. This time grabbing his shoulders for stability. Rearing her knee back, she drove it into his crotch with tremendous force. His mouth opening in a silent scream, the drunk collapsed as the lower half of his body went numb.
The last man stood frozen in shock as he witnessed his drinking buddies fall before the young woman's brutal assault. Now shaking in terror, he fell to his knees when she began walking towards him. "P-Please lass! I means no harm! We was jus kiddin! PLEASE DONT CRUSH MY BALLS!"
As the man in front of her collapsed into a heap of sobs, she stood and started at him. Shaking her head, she proceeded to rend him unconscious by stomping on the back of his head. Looking around her, she noticed as the bystanders rushed away into nearby hovels as her gaze fell upon them. Straightening her gear, she continued towards her original destination.
It was always the same. Whether it be pickpockets, murderers, or the perverts . The lower wards of Noxus were one of the most undesirable places to inhabit. It was a wonder she made it to her teenage years living in such a cesspool. The military patrols didn't really monitor this part of the city if they could help it. Thus, crime was allowed to go on unchecked.
Despite growing up in the heart of such poverty, a part of her was glad that she grew up in such an environment. Without it, she likely wouldn't have developed such a strong will to succeed. Looking up at the mountain that housed the upper-class of Noxian society. The woman reminded herself that one day, she would also be up there.
That was why she pushed herself so hard. Why she strove to be the best warrior that she could be. Even her platoon sergeant praised her as the strongest in their squad. That wasn't enough for her however, she would continue driving towards the top until she was either dead or Grand General. Her trainers always commented on how she was a prodigy with a long-sword. Unacceptable, she would become the most renowned blade-master that Valoran had ever known.
It was why she loved her home so much. Outsiders called them names like xenophobic, genocidal, unethical. She ignored such titles. The only thing that mattered was her goal. No matter who someone was, they could carve out a spot in the higher echelons of Noxian society! The only thing that mattered here was power! Good, evil ,light, dark... none of these titles mattered in Noxus. For as long as you could prove your might, the sky and beyond were the limit.
Giving once last determined glance before she entered her home. The woman nodded to herself as she gazed upon the castle which sat upon the top of the mountain one last time.
"Concentrate..."
Hearing the echo of Kurama's voice, he sank deeper into his trance. Sitting with legs crossed , the grip he had on his knees increased as he relived the events that brought him to Ionia. Sitting parallel to him was Karma, monitoring the flow of his spiritual energy. They had been at it for the last few days and the blonde hadn't made much progress.
Initially, he had refused to accept Karma's method of help until Soraka almost begged him to believe in the monk. It hadn't taken long for him to fold once the Starchild grasped his hands and pleaded with him. Since then, the stubborn blonde had been seen with the ebony woman every sunrise in the village temple.
"If you don't believe in what your trying to accomplish, then what we're doing will have no effect Naruto. I would think you would know this after sitting here for the last couple of days."
Snapping his eyes open, he glared at her, "I don't even know why I'm here! The only reason I'm doing this is because Soraka-chan asked me!" Shaking her head in disappointment, Karma responded to his outburst.
"That's the problem. Your doing this for Soraka, when really, your supposed to be meditating so you can reflect on yourself. The longer you maintain this stubborn attitude, the longer this takes. I can understand if your afraid to confront the doubts you hold deep within" She really could, that was one the hardest parts of this process, being able to overcome your own ego.
"Reflect on myself? I've already done that, and I overcame my hate!" Thinking back to the training he had with Kirabi. He remembered how he had to face 'Dark' Naruto and accept it as part of himself.
Raising a delicate eyebrow, she responded to his claim of enlightenment. "Be that as it may, you speak of only understanding a part of yourself. Have you ever come to truly know your own limits? Have you ever been forced to look at yourself and know you couldn't go on? You may have started down the path to enlightenment, but you've barley gotten your feet dirty. The path to such harmony is endless, as there is always something new to learn about yourself."
Gritting his teeth in frustration, the irate jinchuuriki was about to respond when the Kyubi made its presence known.
"Stop boy! Listen to what she is saying. Can you say that know who Uzumaki Naruto really is?"
Hearing his tenant's question made the blonde pause for moment. "Of course I know who he is! I'M HIM! Besides, I've already accepted that even I can hold darkness within myself. I have no idea what she is talking about..."
"No, the figure you met within yourself was merely a product of my meddling. As you know, chakra is made up of both physical and spiritual energy. Well, after the seal broke down the first time. I began secretly manipulating your psych. Using the slight control I had over your chakra, I began harvesting your negative emotions. All of your hate, anger, misery... loneliness. All these feelings manifested into the Naruto that you encountered when you sat at the Falls of Truth."
Sitting in amazement in what Kurama had just told him, the lone ninja questioned the kitsune. "H-How did you manage all of that? Was the seal really so broken?!"
"Yes and no. The seal your father used was based on Uzumaki techniques. It was something that even he likely didn't completely understand. Kushina on the other hand... she was the one who made that damn Yondaime into who he was. She knew the consequences the seal could have on your mind. I'm sure it was part of the reason why she and your father locked a portion of their souls within the seal. That being said, you are the third Uzumaki I've been stuck in. I've had a long time to study your clans techniques."
As his mind slowly came to understand what it being told. Naruto came to respect Kurama even more. Despite the face that he had just learned how he had his mind manipulated, he had to give the fox his props. Waiting years to amass enough of his own ill will must have taken huge amounts of patience.
"Regardless, what that female speaks is the truth. You've never really been pushed to your own 'edge' before the war. Before then, the only loss you had experienced was the old toad pervert. Even then you snapped out of your depression rather quickly thinks to Iruka. When the Hyuga died, you used his sacrifice to bolster your cause."
Biting his lip as Kurama made his point. The blonde still denied what he was hearing. "That's not true! When Oji-san died I was pretty hurt. There was also when Sausuke left! Then there was..." Kurama's booming voice easily drowned out his own.
"Listen to yourself Naruto! Your only making excuses that even you don't believe in! Or did you forget, I know you better than you think you know yourself. When the Sandaime died, you were more concerned with comforting the younger Sarutobi. When the Uchiha left, you believed so foolishly that you could save him from himself."
Letting out a dry chuckle, Naruto thought about what the fox had said. "I'm I really so easy to read?"
"No... otherwise you wouldn't be wasting this woman's time with your foolishness."
For the last couple of minutes, Karma had been observing the young man before her. After her last remark, he had fallen silent. She felt his aura fluctuate between furious highs and sullen lows before it just evened out. Eventually she heard him laugh, or perhaps it was a cough? With his mood she couldn't really tell.
Now, he just stared at the ground between them with a thoughtful look on his face. Before long, he lifted his head to talk to her. Looking into his eyes, Karma could tell something within him had changed. She only hoped it was for the better.
"Are you ready to continue? We still have a long road before us." Instead of the usually stubborn attitude that accompanied her question, he just nodded. Taking a deep breath, he replied to her question. "Yeah, I cant just keep going on like some broody bastard, right?" Giving the sage a strange look, Karma merely decided it was just best to agree with the enigmatic teen.
"Agreed, even the strongest of structures only begin with a single stone"
Looking at the sun, a part of the Starchild still wished that she was back home in the Astral Forest. The climate there always stayed the same. Since there was no real night or day, the temperature stayed constant. She never had to worry about sunburn before, as there wasn't a 'sun' in the forest. Now though, she could feel its rays on her pale skin. It was rather irritating.
Re-examining her staff for the 5th time in the last three hour's. The celestial was actually starting to get impatient. It had been about a day since she had made it into the Ionian capital. Almost immediately, she had made her way to the Court of Wisdom to talk with the local elder. Luckily for her, all the other elders from the various provinces were also there. Thus making her job considerably easier.
Unfortunately for her however, they had been in a meeting when she got there. The guard at the entrance to the chamber told her that they had been in there for about the last two hours. It made the healer wonder, what could be so important that they were in counsel for five hours? She hoped Naruto was having more success than she was. She had faith that Karma would be able to solve whatever was troubling him. Or at least she hoped so.
The night before she left was still fresh in her mind. She had followed Karma into the outskirts of the village after she had been gone for more than half an hour. Soraka had found the darker skinned woman in some kind of argument with her charge. Their heated debate had ceased as soon as she had made her presence known.
"What seems to be the problem here?" Naruto was avoiding eye contact with her for some reason. Noticing the blondes reaction to Sorakas presence, Karma gave him a critical look. Seeing that her glare wasn't working, the monk finally turned her gaze towards the celestial.
"He refuses to accept that which is obvious! I merely offered my help to him and threw it back in my face." Though she couldn't call the woman in front of her angry. Karma's irritation was as clear to see as the stars on a dark night. "Just when I think he understands, he throws a tantrum like a stubborn child!"
"Because there's nothing wrong with me lady! I've been trying to get that through your obviously thick skull for like the last ten minutes!" The two before her where already In the other's face. "I should stop this before they come to blows!"
Before she could diffuse the situation however, the duo had started again. "Thick skull... I don't know why someone like Soraka waste's her time with someone like you! If it were myself, I would just let you drown in your own cowardice!" After the words left her mouth, Karma had almost instantly regretted them.
Looking into his eyes, the monk found that it was suddenly hard to breath. As she continued to stare in his now glowing yellow orbs. As she stared into his cross-shaped eyes,she saw what she thought was some kind of grisly scene playing out in his pupils. Over and over, she saw someone being killed in the most brutal of manners.
Their spine snapped as they were brought down on his knee. A hand protruding from a hole where the heart should be. Tears started to flow down her cheeks as she watched these scenes replay themselves. Each one somehow more gruesome then the last. Despite her lifelong practice of strengthening ones spirit . Karma felt bile rise her into her throat as she finally saw the figure she was watching the whole time was herself.
Soraka could feel as terror slowly wormed itself into her heart. She had never felt more afraid for her life as she did now. What made it worse was that it was coming from the blonde that she had grown to care for. She gasped as she saw the flame like aura from the forest start to take shape around his form.
"This Bitch! How dare she...!" Naruto felt the hatred he thought he had buried deep within himself gradually begin to surface. After all that he lost... all he had been through. She calls him a coward? " I had to fight a fucking goddess! Even then I didn't give up! She gets to live in this peaceful village and sit on ass all day... and she calls me a coward!"
Unconsciously flaring his chakra, the furious jinchūriki glared into the ebony woman's dark eyes. He couldn't hear the bijū within him pleading for him to control himself. The only thing that existed to him in that moment was the woman who dared to insult him in such a way.
Before he could act on his anger, he same something in the corner of his vision. Soraka was slowly stepping towards him. Turning his head towards the woman who saved him, he grimaced as he saw the expression on her face. She had stopped her movements and just stared at him. The fear in her eyes was easy to see. The way she looked hurt him more than any physical blow that she could have dealt. Karma's words replayed in his mind as he and Soraka maintained eye contact.
"...Or you will lash out at the only person who cares about you!" The chakra that had began to take shape around him died immediately. Sorakas posture steadily began to relax as she saw the energy around him fade. Continuing to make her way towards him, she was slightly hurt as he turned his back to them.
"Naruto, please face me." Keeping his back turned to her, the Starchild reached out to put her hand on his shoulder. Before he had the chance to brush her hand off, she clamped down with a surprisingly strong grip. Again, she asked him to face her. This time with a stronger tone.
"Face me, Naruto!" Flinching at the tone she used, the boy gradually tuned his body until he was frontward. Though he had obeyed her, she still wasn't satisfied. His head was tucked into chest so that she still couldn't see his eyes. Gently placed her hand underneath his chin. Soraka lifted it until she could finally make them out.
Off to the side, Karma still couldn't believe what she had felt. To have her will crushed so easily from just a single glance. Just who or what was this boy. She had never felt such terrible despair before. Forgetting her previous anger, she felt more curious than anything now. Calming herself down, she listened to what her pale skinned friend had to say.
"Please do not be angry with Karma. It was I who asked her to approach you. You should direct your anger towards me if you want someone to blame."
Diverting his deep blues eyes from her own, Naruto muttered his response to her confession. "I could never be mad at you, Soraka-chan. Not after everything you've done for me..." Giving him a somber smile, she caressed his face.
Though she felt like she was manipulating his feelings for her, Soraka knew that it was what needed to be done. "Then I want you to trust Karma as you have trusted me. Its hurts me that while I may be able to heal your physical wounds..." Moving her hand from his face to chest, she stared at the spot where his heart resided.
"I can nothing about the ones which are hurting you most. This is where Karma will succeed where I have so obviously failed. But I need you to let her in. So far I've failed to do so. So much to the point I'm now afraid of what will happen to you if you keep bottling up such strong emotions."
Almost flinching at the word 'afraid', Naruto listened as the healer continued. " Listen, tomorrow I shall be finishing the last legs of our journey to the capital. While I am there, I want you to learn whatever knowledge Karma has to teach."
Before he could protest, Soraka gave him a stern look. The blonde was actually taken aback at her look. "Is she actually mad at me? I've never seen her angry before." Soraka was so mild-mannered, he didn't even think it was possible for her to feel the emotion.
Her stern looked morphed into a pleading one, " Please Naruto, I mean it!If you wont do it for your own sake. Then by the stars, do it for me!"
Gritting his teeth, Naruto knew he could t refuse Soraka's plea. Somehow, he felt like he was being played for a fool. However, because it was Soraka, he would bury those feelings and do as she asked. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you angry. I will give Karma's training a chance. Even if It is complete bullshit..." Whispering the last part to himself, the blonde was shocked when he was hit in the back of the head with something hard.
"O-Ow! What the hell was that for, Dattebayo!" Rubbing his now aching head, he looked up to see his caretaker with her hands on her hips. He glared at the staff that she always carried in her off hand. It shape was that of a crescent moon. Intricate markings adorned its surface almost making some sort of pattern. At one of its ends there was the actual handle of the staff. While most would call the glimmering rod a beautiful piece of art. Naruto did his best to ignore it as its crescent shape brought back bad memories. Placing his attention back on the taller woman, Naruto took note of her disappointed face.
"How many times do I to remind you? A young man such as yourself shouldn't use such language!" Though she had only had contact with the outside world a couple of years ago. Soraka was quick to pick most of the traditions and morals of her fellow Ionians. Which included a natural abhorrence to such crude language.
"Soraka-chan... I'm 17 years old! Besides where I come from, I was considered an adult when I was 12." That didn't seem to appease the Starchild though.
"And I'm immortal! You don't see me going around using such unbecoming language. Your better than that Naruto!" As the duo continued to bicker, Karma stood behind them with a knowing smile on her face. Letting loose a chuckle, she noticed as the two stopped and turned to see what was so funny. Seeing the attention now focused her, the monk shared what she thought was so amusing.
"The way you two interact, an outsider might mistake you for mother and son." Naruto looked from Karma back over to Soraka, a healthy shade of red dusting his cheeks. "M-My mother?"
Mistaking his tone for embarrassment, the celestial chastised her friend. While she was busy with her friend, the teen continued to stare at her. He was snapped from his trance however when he felt his 'mothers' hand's pull his head into her bosom.
"Though your remark was callous, I wont deny that I've grown quite attached to Naruto." As she spoke, she pulled his face deeper into her breast. "Soraga! Mmppfff... mmpp!" While he was stuck in her grasp, it was at this time that the blonde remembered something important. Soraka never wore any kind of support.
"W-Wow! Their surprisingly soft, I thought with the way they kept their shape. They would certainly be a lot firmer!"
"I didn't think it was true. But I stand corrected." Nodding to himself, Kurama attracted the curiosity of some of the other bijū.
"What do you speak of? Did you form some sort of hypothesis about our host?" Though usually silent, it seemed that Kurama's statement had finally roused Saiken. The giant slug waved its slimy tails around as it waited patiently for his 'brothers' answer.
"It is no longer an hypothesis. I can now say with certainty that our host has a Oedipus complex!"
The surprised gasp of the other bijū filled the space they inhabited. All of them murmured to themselves at the revelation. Except Shukaku who stood with a black expression on his grainy face.
"O-dipi-wha complex? What in Suna's name are you all mumbling about?" Rolling his empty eyes at the sand monsters ignorance, Gyuki decided to fill Shukaku in.
"It means that Naruto desires to procreate with his mother. In this case, Soraka-san." Surprisingly the Tanuki just kept a blank face. Time seemed to crawl as his mind processed what he just heard. Finally he gave his intelligent response, " So he wants to bang his mom? Whats wrong with that?"
The other bijū just shrugged as they really didn't understand either. " I don't fully comprehend it myself. But apparently most humans find mating between family members wrong."
"I don't think so... I remember back before the villages were formed. The stronger clans would have such relations all the time. Apparently it made their Kekkei Genki stronger. They call it incest."
Licking her flaming paws, Matatabi gave the kitsune a confused look. "But I still don't understand why its so wrong? Surely the humans are right to mate in such a way as to produce stronger kittens?"
Clacking its hooves on the ground, the dolphin-headed horse tried to answer his siblings question. " If I recall, this isn't usually the case. Such unions result in unwanted birth defects that were found In the offspring. It it for this reason that such relationships are frowned upon."
Slightly impressed by Kokuo's knowledge, Kurama continued with the lesson. "What Kokuo says is mostly correct. While it is true that birth defects do occur, they seemed to be almost non-existent in some clans. I can only speak for Konoha, but among some of the clans there, Incest was quite normal. From what I witnessed from my previous containers, It was always the ones with Doujutsu."
The Nibi seemed to catch on to what she was being told. " So while some humans had no problems with the practice. Others frowned upon it because they got unfavorable results? Strange..." It was times like this that she was glad that she was just a giant mass of chakra that didn't have a 'real' gender.
"Back to the point! I remember when the boy met his real mother. There was no doubt that he was attracted to her. He even commented on her hair!"
Finally noticing all the activity that was going on inside, Naruto listened in on what his tenants were discussing. He had come in just as the Kyubi was finishing his last remark.
"Hey! What the hell are you guys talking about in there?" He had heard Kurama talking about his apparent attraction to his mother.
The fox in question merely snorted at his containers suspicions. " Do not deny it boy, I know how you truly felt about Kushina! Admit it! You were grasping her a little to hard when she hugged you if you ask me.."
"Well its a good thing I didn't ask you asshole! That was my first time meeting my mother!Stop being such a pervert you bastard fox!" Though he denied the accusations, Naruto still remembered the luscious, silkiness of Kushinas alluring crimson hair. "It was really soft..."
Clearing those thoughts from his head before he proved his tenant right. The blonde of questionably morality remembered he still in between Soraka's mounds. Looking up at her while he was still buried in her rather large bust. He saw her smile down at him with a fond look etched upon her face. Deciding that now was a good time to extract himself, the last Uzumaki slowly pulled himself from the healers grasp.
As he regathered himself he heard Soraka speak, "While I'm gone, I truly hope that you can overcome the pain you have. When next we meet, I look forward to seeing how much you've changed!"
Cutting her Nostalgia short, the celestial took the time to admire the beauty of the Lotus Gardens. It hadn't been the first time she had done it, but she found it passed the time.
"Excuse me my Lady, the elders will see you now." Giving the young guard a grateful smile, she let herself be guided into the massive building which served as the meeting place for the leaders of Ionia. As they strolled down the ornate hallways, Soraka wondered what their reaction would be to her story.
Coming to a set of double doors with the Ionian crest carved into it, the guard bowed to her as the doors creaked open. Walking into the chamber, Soraka was greeted to the sight of the elders bowing to her in respect.
"You grace with your presence, Starchild. What can these servants of Ionia do for you?" The other members of the council kept their heads bowed as they waited for Soraka's request.
Bowing her head back towards the man who addressed her. The celestial made her request known, " Thank you all for agreeing to see me. I know you have many matters to attend to, so I'll try not to take too much of your time."
Raising their heads from their bowed positions, the elders stood ready to hear what the Starchild could possible want. As they heard her tale about how she found a young man in her forest, the elders of Ionia found themselves becoming suspicious of the man's origins. With the looming threat of Noxus, they had to exercise constant vigilance. Clearing her throat, the current duchess of Shon-Xan interrupted their guests story with a question that the other elders also wanted to ask.
"Forgive me for interrupting, but I've noticed something about this boy you speak of. From what you say, he came from the sky. Is it possible that he is not of Runeterra? From the way you described his previous injuries, he should be dead." Nods of agreement could be see going around the room as the others leaders wanted to hear Soraka's answer as well.
Humming in thought, the celestial thought about how she should word her response. She wouldn't lie to them, but she also didn't want them to think Naruto was some sort of menace. "To be honest, I can't really answer that. He's mentioned that he's from somewhere called the Elemental Nations, which I theorized are in another dimension. However, even with this being the case, the customs of his people are somewhat similar to our own. His own dialect is even comparable to ours. But I want to make one thing clear elder.."
The duchess nodded her head towards Soraka. "... While I myself am not really clear of his origins or plans for the future. I know that Naruto is not a threat to Ionia, no matter what you may think about him."
"I do not mean to question your judgment Lady Soraka. However, you seem to place a lot of trust in this man. Whomever he may be." Again, it seemed as the other elders seemed to agree with each other. The Duke of Pallas continued is speech, " That being said, I find myself eager to meet this man. Do you know where he is now?"
" He should be here within the next day, I can bring him before this council if that is what you wish."
Silently looking at each other across the chamber, the elders came to a unanimous decision. "Very well, when your companion arrives, bring him before us. I anticipate meeting a being from a world similar to our own."
"Are you ready to proceed?" The ninja looked over his shoulder at the approaching form of his current companion. Turning back towards the scenery, he answered , " Yeah I'm good. You said we should be there in a couple of hours right?"
Taking the time to appreciate the beauty that was Ionia, Karma ran her eyes over the length of the waterfall they were waking by. Both sat in silence as they let its deafening roars fill the area. Hearing a grunt, she saw the teen before her jump to his feet and begin to stretch.
For the last few days that she had known him, the blonde had opened up considerably. He could still be rude and somewhat brash at times, bu she mostly attributed that to his age. "Still, I feel that I haven't learned much about him at all."
Naruto was good at hiding his emotions, even to someone like Karma. She knew that he was some kind of ninja like those of the Kinkou Order, but he just didn't look the blonde hair along with bright blue eyes didn't exactly scream shinobi. Add his personality to the equation and the monk didn't see how the young man in front of her could possible be one of the infamous 'warriors of shadow,"
"Thats how he fools you though! A normal person would underestimate him because of how he looks and talks. However, now that I've had the time to get a small glimpse of who he really is, I don't know what to think of him..." Giving him once last look. Karma began to walk down the path that would lead them to the capital. She knew he'd easily catch up with her when he was ready.
As if on que, her blonde companion came up right behind her with his hands resting on the back of his head. Letting out a sigh, Naruto started to stare at the sky. Looking over at the teen in amusement, the monk figured that some small talk couldn't hurt.
"Whats wrong, something on your mind?" She could tell he was annoyed by the way his eyes were squeezed shut and the thin line his mouth made.
"Nothing really, its just that this is taking way to long to get there! We've been walking for like half a day now."
"Too long? You have a faster way to get there? If so, please show me." Silence met her challenge, as the blonde just stood there staring at the sky.
"As I thought. We will be there within the next 6 hours, just bear with it until then." Before she could continue her pace however, Karma was literally swept of her feet. Were she a lesser woman, she would had let out a high-pitch scream. But as it was, she just settled on indignant rage.
"W-What do you think your doing! Let. Me. Go!" Karma struggled a little as Naruto carried her bridal style. "The nerve! How dare he just grabs me and..." As she continued her inner tirade, she heard the blonde laugh.
"Are you sure you want me to drop you? Look where we're at." Karma begrudgingly did as she was asked and looked around. She was confused as all she saw were the tops of trees and the branches that protruded from them. Getting an uneasy feeling, she turned her head and saw that they were on the tree. Which was about 30 feet from the ground.
Before she could calm herself down, Karma felt a jerking motion as her carrier launched off the branch. Snapping her eyes to his face, she saw that he was eerily serene. "Has he done before? He seems to be at peace, as if he's been doing this for years."
"How are you doing this? I've never heard, much less seen anybody travel this way." Getting a contemplative look on his face, Naruto continued in silence. Seeing that he wasn't going to answer her question, Karma was about to protest.
"Look Karma, I get the feeling that when we get to the capital, I'm gonna have to explain a lot of troublesome things. If you can just wait until then, I'd really appreciate it." Hearing his sincere tone, the Navorian decided to abide by his wishes.
"Very well Naruto, I will believe in you. I just hope that my trust wont be misplaced though." Giving her a grateful nod, Naruto picked up the pace.
"H-Hey slow down! Naruto!"
By the time they had reached the capital gates, it was already well into the afternoon. Landing in a silent crouch, Naruto slowly stood to his full height and whistled at the sight of the city.
"Damn! This place is bigger than I thought. How are we gonna find Soraka-Chan?" Hearing his companion clear her throat, he looked down towards her. She merely lifted up a hand and pointed a finger towards the ground. Giving a sheepish chuckle, he carefully set her on her feet.
"Thank you..." Straightening her robe, Karma took a moment to look around the entrance. Some of the people around them gave strange glances. While others merely ignored them all together. To caught up in their own affairs.
Re-adjusting the sash around her waist, the monk was finally ready to continue. Before she could do so however, two members of the Ionian guard stood before them. The senior of the duo approached Naruto as if to arrest him.
"Look buddy, I just got here so..." The guard, realizing his intent had been misinterpreted, stopped his motion and took a step back.
"My apologies sir. But we were ordered to bring Naruto Uzumaki to the Chamber of Wisdom once he was spotted. You are him, correct?" Seeing Karma nod at him in the corner of his eye, he answered the guards question.
"Yeah I'm him, did I do something wrong?" Feeling his shoulder being grabbed from behind, He turned to see his brown-skinned companion say something. "Soraka must've been able to make contact with the elders." Recognition crossed the guards eye's as he heard the Starchild name.
"You are correct ma'am, Lady Soraka has been within the walls of the capital for about the last four days. Should we guide you towards her?" Without waiting for an answer, the guard started walking. As they followed their guide, Naruto took in the area's architecture.
"The way the buildings are built around the trees is amazing! It reminds me so much of home..." Giving a wistful smile, the bijū container kept looking around the capital. Speaking of bijū, the resident fox made itself known.
"Are you ready for what is ahead boy? The leaders of this place will likely probe you for information about our home."
"I can't say that I'm 'ready', but what choice do I really have? If I don't go along with what they want, they could just decide to throw me out! At the very least, I have to know if they have a way to send us back."
"Why are you so desperate to go back, Naruto? We all know what is there waiting for us. To go back now would be tantamount to suicide! And I know you've already quashed those feelings... Right?!"
He didn't want to admit it, but he knew that Kurama had a very good point. Even if they were able to get back to he Elemental Nations. The only thing that would be awaiting them would be Kaguya. His friends were dead the minute he landed on this planet. Whether it be by the Shinju or by Kaguya's own hands, he knew they were no more.
"Unless I can find someway to get back home and jump back in time..." Rapidly shaking his head, Naruto cut off that line of thoughts. Even he knew that was a stupid idea to begin with.
"I guess that leaves me at the mercy of these 'elders'. Hopefully their a lot cooler than the old bastards we had in Konoha!
"We are here, please wait here while I go alert the elders of your arrival." With that, the soldiers made their way inside the building.
Making herself comfortable on one of the benches, Karma turned her head to the blonde."It is likely we will be waiting here for awhile."
With an annoyed huff, the sage leaned up against one of the many lotus trees in the area. Glancing over at his temporary companion, he noticed that she had her eyes closed. "Probably meditating... actually that doesn't sound like a bad idea right now." Closing his own eye's, Naruto began to gradually accumulate the natural energy in the air.
One of the things he noticed when he went into sage mode was how fast it happened. He still had to stay still to draw it in. After that though, the energy just poured into him. It also felt different, the chakra felt a lot more concentrated here. Almost like it was a untapped source of energy.
"That would make sense I guess... since the people here use that mana stuff. I haven't sensed anyone with anything that feels even remotely similar to chakra. Karma also told me that they used Ki. If that's the case, maybe that mana stuff is the Yin chakra of this place?"
It didn't make sense to the blonde. These people could use the components of chakra, but couldn't combine them? That still didn't explain the denser sage chakra.
"I believe it has to do with the theory of energy." The jinchūriki almost jumped at the sudden voice in is head.
"The theory of energy? What the hell is that." Sighing at his containers ignorance, Gyuki continued his explanation.
"In Kumo, the humans had this theory that energy isn't created or destroyed. It merely just gets recycled back into the atmosphere. Now, take chakra, which is also a form a 'energy'.When this energy is used up, it gets put back into the atmosphere. Besides those who know Senjutsu, humans cannot access this free energy."
"So it just sits in the air? Does that mean that there is chakra in the air here?"
"Not exactly, while I am still unsure about how this mana works. I believe comparing it to Yin chakra would be for the best right now. Just like 'Ki' it likely just Yang chakra. Now, as I was saying before, most organisms cannot use this free energy. Even most of the summon clans couldn't. That's where nature comes in."
Still leaning against the tree, Naruto remained deep in thought. " So... Your telling me that the trees and stuff like that can take both Yin and Yang chakra and combine them? But that would mean trees have spirits!"
"Yes and no. Just because something has Yin chakra, doesn't mean that it is 'alive' like you are. But that's for another time. Anyhow, the answer to your question is yes. The nature around you can take in both types of chakra and combine them. Now, the people of this realm can only use one type of energy at a time. That means that while there is a steady amount of chakra going into the cycle, there is also an influx of natural energy. Because there is no one to use it, the chakra has became 'supercharged'.
"But I still don't understand! Wouldn't it be the case back home also? I mean, there weren't exactly sages at every corner. That would mean that there should be a whole bunch of sage chakra to use, right?"
"Wrong. I can see how you would reach that conclusion, so let me clarify. Remember when I was talking about the cycle of energy?" Feeling the blonde mentally nod his head, the Octo-bull continued. "Well, when you release chakra through any kind of technique, the ambient chakra in the atmosphere is used up as well. Think about your Rasengan for example. It is made of pure chakra, and feeds off yours to maintain its form. That being said, it still draws in minute amounts of the natural chakra around it. Because the humans here cannot use chakra, their is nowhere for this natural chakra to go. Understand now?
"I guess... but what about.." Before he could could continue his discussion with Gyuki, he was interrupted by someone shaking his shoulder.
"Naruto, it is time for us to go" She was surprised he was still behind her this whole time. While she was meditating his presence just vanished. It wasn't until the guard came and she turned around did she notice that he was still in the exact same spot.
Seeing the blondes eye's shoot open, she pointed at the entrance to the elders chamber. Nodding his head, they proceeded to follow the guard inside.
Stopping before the double doors, Naruto gazed at the symbol that adorned its surface in awe. Snapping out of it as the doors opened, he proceeded into the chamber with Karma behind him. Stepping into the room, Naruto noticed the nine figures that surrounded his position. Before he could examine the faces of his interviewers, one of them introduced themselves.
"You must be this Naruto Uzumaki that Soraka has told us so much about. Though it might be to late, on the behalf of Ionian people, I welcome you to our home." As he said this, every one of the elders bowed to him. Not wanting to make an ass of himself for once, the blonde gave an awkward bow back.
Raising his head, the elder continued to converse with the jinchūriki.
"I take it your stay here so far has been without complaint?"
Looking contemplative for a moment, Naruto nodded his head. "Yeah its been cool I guess. Y'know , besides the almost dying thing..." Hearing the sigh from behind him, he knew Karma was likely irritated with the casual way he talked to the governing body of her home.
"Yes... about that my boy. From what Lady Soraka has told us, you are not from this reality. Is this true?"
The tone in the man's voice seemed to hold an edge of suspicion.
Letting out he breath he didn't know he had been holding in, the teen readied himself. "I guess this is it, Hopefully we don't end up being executed or something."
"Yes, do try and take care not to get us all killed..." The sarcasm in Kurama's voice was almost painful.
Shaking his head, Naruto looked straight into the elders eyes and answered. "It's true, I'm not from this place. I ended up here after getting my ass kicked."
"And now that your here what are your intentions? Surely you wish to go back to your home?" This comment came from a woman standing three spots to the left of the center elder.
"Well I'm not really sure. I don't know much about this place. The only people I know are Karma and Soraka-chan. I mean, do you guys even have a way to send me home?" The leaders of Ionia could hear the hope in the boy's voice. Unfortunately, they would have to crush it.
"No, we do not dabble in such things. Playing with the fabric that holds our world together is not such a wise idea. Even someone in your position must agree."
"I thought so, looks like I'm stuck here, huh?" The elders didn't seem to be amused by his statement. "Geez, tough crowd..." Things weren't looking too good for him at the moment.
"Yes, it's seems as though you'll to make due with Ionia for awhile. Listen, no offense to yourself, but we don't exactly feel comfortable with an extra-dimensional being such as yourself being here" They saw his head drop in dejection.
"However, It is not the Ionian way to turn our backs on someone in need. Luckily, Lady Soraka here has vouched that you mean no harm to our home." Hearing his saviors name Naruto looked around the room in order to find her. He eventually found her to the far right of the chamber. Seeing his eyes on her , the Starchild gave a hopeful smile and nodded her head towards the elders.
"That being said, we know nothing about you. Lady Soraka's word goes a far way, but your own would help to close the gap of our trust."
Putting his hand under his chin, the sage gave the duchess an inquisitive look. "We'll what do you want? My life story?" He didn't know how he could prove himself to them. "Maybe some sort of test maybe? As long as its not written.."
Looking among each other, the elders nodded. "Why yes Uzumaki, it would please us to know just who you are. Knowledge is power, and the more we know about you, the better off you'll be."
"Well... fuck. I didn't think they'd actually agree to that!" Not displaying his inner turmoil,the last ninja of Konoha prepared his tale. "I suppose I should give a little background then. Once their was a sage..."
As he told all in the chamber about how his world came to be, he saw mixed looks of disbelief and amazement. Fortunately nobody stopped him as he recalled the history of the Elemental Nations.
He then moved onto the major events of his life. The night of his birth, graduating, the chunin exams... he went all the way until the 'end' of the war. It was difficult, but he also explained the principles of chakra to them. He didn't know how all of it worked himself, but he told them what he knew.
He didn't know how long it had taken him, but the elders had stood in rapt attention the whole time. Finally he had finished, and waited for their judgment.
The Duchess from before was the first ,"Naruto, do you mind if I ask how you came here in the first place? We know about everything leading up to this 'ninja war' , but nothing about the events that left you near death in Lady Soraka's forest."
Taking a deep breath, the blonde spoke, "Well..." Leaving them hanging in suspense he just stood in his spot.
"Well? What happened?Did you defeat this goddess you spoke of?"
"I suppose the simplest answer would be that I got the shit kicked outta me." The Duchess gasped at his crude language. He wasn't finished however
"After Kaguya trapped everyone within the Shinju, my team tried to fight her. We were doing pretty good too! Until she got smart and sent me into some sort of pocket space. After that, she proceeded to kick my ass. I tried one last move on her which went wrong. After that, all I remember is waking up in some house. That's about it I guess."
One of the elders to his left didn't seem quite convinced however. "Most of your story is believable, but to fight what you described as a goddess and survive is ludicrous!"
Giving a humorless chuckle, Naruto responded to the elders accusations. " 'Survive' is not the word I would use. When we fought , Kaguya outclassed me in every way... Even with my power, I stood no chance. I have no doubt that if I hadn't been sucked into the portal, I would be dead by now."
The old duke still didn't budge, " That may be, but what about this 'chakra' you speak of? You claim to have the power to fight a 'goddess' but I don't see how that can be. You look like nothing more than a normal boy to me."
Naruto nodded his head, agreeing with the elders point. "Your right, Its a lot easier if I show you!" Almost immediately the elders fell to their knees from the power he released. To them it felt as though an invisible hand was pressing into to them.
After a moment, everyone managed to recover enough to sit in a kneeled position. As they gazed upon the blonde, any doubts that they may have had were eliminated. His 'chakra' formed into a light colored coat, with an almost black looking bodysuit underneath that covered his torso and legs. There was also a light-colored circle on his navel. On his neck were what looked to be golden tear-shaped ornaments. They also happened to be on his back, only this time they were black.
With his now golden hair waving in an unknown breeze, the Uzumaki addressed the same elder from before. "So, is this good enough for you?" The elder in question found it hard to look into the sages yellow cross-shaped eyes.
"Y-Yes, I am convinced." The whole room breathed easier once the invisible weight was removed. As they recomposed themselves, Naruto asked his own question.
"So... what happens now? I've told you everything that I can..." Naruto awaited their answer in obvious trepidation.
The elders stayed silent as they each took the time to form their own conclusions. The looks that they passed one another only served to make the blonde even more nervous. Behind him. Karma was still reeling from his little display of power.
"I knew that he was hiding something... But to contain such a enormous amount of energy within his being. I truly underestimated his prowess by many degrees. If this is the power that he holds at his fingertips, then how powerful was this goddess that he fought? Just standing this close to him, I felt as though I before a real god..."
On the other side of the room, Soraka was also lost in her own thoughts. "To think he's been in such conflict since he was but a child. It makes me wonder just how his world thrived with so many people hiding such hatred in their hearts... It seems as though you managed to strive through all of that though didn't you, Naruto? My only regret is that we had to meet under such horrible circumstances. To lose not only your loved ones, but your whole world..."
With a loud clap, the middle elder looked upon the sage. "Naruto Uzumaki, to have suffered as you have and came out still looking for a brighter tomorrow is nothing short of miraculous. While some us still have our doubts about you, we would be foolish to deny you a chance to prove yourself. Therefore, it brings me great honor to open our home to you. Would you grant us the same honor and call Ionia your new home?"
Looking on in surprise as the group of elders gave him deep bows, the blonde almost cried. "They want me to be one of them? To call this place my home..." Rubbing his eye's before the tears started flowing, the teen quickly accepted their proposal.
"Y-Yes! I would love to... but there is something bothering me." The elders looked confused at their guests remark.
"What seems to be the problem Naruto?" The blonde in question clenched his fist and gave the council a determined look.
"You said that some of you still doubted me! I want to know what I can do to prove myself to my new home!"
Surprised was etched into everyone of the elders faces. Allowing himself a small chuckle, the duke responded to the sage's question.
"Learn... Travel around Ionia and seek the enlightenment that we all aspire to. There are many locations around our home which I think you would be interested in. Get to know your countrymen, an let them know you in return. And above all, find peace within yourself. Ionia is your new home now. While it is important to remember the past, do not make it be what defines your future. This is what you can do for us, Naruto."
Accepting what the elder said, Naruto took a step forward. "I have once last thing to say to the council"
Nodding his head for the boy to continue, Naruto slammed his hand over his heart.
"I promise that for as long as I live, that I will always protect my new home with my life. You didn't have to accept me, but you did! And I will always be grateful that. This is the only way I know to repay such kindness!"
The elder took on a serious look as he heard his new countrymen's declaration, "Are sure you want to make such an oath? Runeterra is filled with many dangers that you know nothing of, and Ionia is but a small island compared to the main land. Even with your substantial power, do you really wish to carry such a burden? Being the Guardian of Ionia will surely come with its own dangers."
His words didn't seem to have any noticeable effect on the jinchūriki. Naruto gave the elder a vicious grin, "Uzumaki Naruto never goes back on his word! Its the promise of a lifetime!"
"I'm glad to see such conviction in one so young! Very well, I accept your oath." As the blonde nodded and turned towards his companions, the duke saw his fellow elders give him a look. "Enjoy this peace while it last Naruto. I fear that you will have to take up your mantle far sooner than I would have ever hoped!"