Demon's Den
Chapter 3
Naruto had been shown around his new home and his new bedroom. Kag—no his mother had told him he could decorate it anyway he wanted. She had also told him that they would be going shopping tomorrow for clothes, toys—he really couldn't believe that he would have his own toys!—books, shoes and paint for his room.
His family—he giggled with happiness—had eaten dinner together before playing a few games with him. They had also told him that if he needed anything that he shouldn't be afraid to ask. After a while, they had taken him to his room and bid him goodnight. It was amazing how his Mom read him a story and kissed him goodnight. His father had patted his head and tucked him in. His sister had wished him sweet dreams and a promise for some intense shopping the following day.
His bed was so comfortable that it wasn't long before he was sleeping with happy dreams of his family.
Sarutobi Sanadaime was an old man. After the Taishos had left, the room had been almost an explosive rage. Many had argued that Naruto should not have been adopted by the most powerful clan around. Though the voting of the clans had only allowed the adoption there were those that were still reserved on the possibility of Naruto becoming the heir of the clan.
The Uchiha clan had protested with vigour stating over and over again that it wasn't wise to give Naruto so much access to such an amazing teacher. That Naruto would someday turn against all of Konoha. Another point they had made was that though the Taisho were a strong clan, did not necessarily mean that they were the strongest.
Sarutobi had merely rolled his eyes at the arrogance of the clan. Sarutobi's own father had told him of a battle he had witnessed where two Taisho brothers had fought side by side to defeat a demon that had been a danger to several villages.
Surprisingly, the Inuzuka clan whole heartedly agreed that the Taishos were the perfect clan to adopt him. They had said that no one else could compare with the control the couple exhibited. Also, that they were the only clan to have the ability to fight and control demons without any problem. Another thing was that they had automatically stated that they will follow through anything the Taisho clan wanted.
The Hyuuga clan had also agreed. That was something Sarutobi thought he would never witness. According to the Hyuuga, Naruto needed to be disciplined and that only great things had been heard about the Taisho clan. If they weren't able to make sure the boy did not grow into a demon, then who else could?
The Yamanaka's had shrugged as they said that they knew how to breed proper warriors. The boy did need a family. The Taisho were sincere in they're want of adopting Naruto. They had also been surprised at how difficult it was to even get that from their minds. It was as if there was a block there to prevent their entry.
The Nara and Akimichi clan sided with the Yamanaka clan. Both stating that the couple looked alright. Of course there had been the side banter on who had the softer hair, Lady Taisho or Lord Taisho? It was almost a relief to know that they still remained the same as they had been when they were genin.
Sarutobi had laughed good naturedly. The couple was beautiful, an immortal beauty had been gifted to the two that made Sarutobi question if they were in fact human.
The Aburame said that there was something about the Taisho that demanded respect. They had also said that like the Inuzuka clan they would unconditionally follow their lead. Their insects seemed to obey the clan without a second thought and praised them.
Sarutobi concluded then that if the Shinobi clans didn't have an issue with the Taisho clan then the civilians shouldn't either. He stressed that the Taisho clan was powerful, and they had shown next to nothing of their true power. He also said that they had the eyes of seasoned warriors, with a levelled look.
He said "Yes, even Lady Taisho has the eyes of a battle warrior. I would suggest that you watch where you are when you encounter the two of them. If they are this protective around each other, how do you think they will be around their children? Lord Taisho has already confided in me that his wife sees Naruto as her own blood child. I know how you treat the boy, and now you shall do it at your own risk. They do not take kindly to abuse of any kind."
With that he bide them a good day. He went to his office and immediately went to the room that housed the crystal. He then watched with great happiness of Naruto accepting the clan's request for adoption. Suddenly he felt a new hope fill him. A new feeling of elation that the Fourth Hokage's son would grow in a happy home. That the child will be a hero one day. Naruto would follow the Hokage's legacy and make his own name with one of the strongest clans backing him up.
"Let's see how you grow Naruto."
The following day found Naruto, Kagome and Rin inside a paint shop. They were deciding on what color to paint Naruto's room. So far Kagome was finding it increasingly difficult to find a color that really would suit Naruto's room.
"Mommy what about this one?" Naruto asked with bright eyes. He pointed towards the different shades of orange.
Kagome cringed inwardly, "Uh... I think that might be too bright for you room. We could add an accent wall behind your bed in a deeper orange I suppose. With maybe a nice warm, brown for the remaining walls. What do you think?"
"Mom, honestly, orange... is orange."
"I like owange"
"Orange, sweetheart." Kagome corrected automatically. "You need to start school soon. And improve that lisp."
"Nee-chan it's cool!" Naruto argued.
Rin rolled her eyes, "Naru-chan it's bright. Don't you want a blue or something?"
"Nee-chan! Just cause you liske blue or silvewa doesn't mean I do." Naruto replied.
Kagome tilted her head slightly trying to picture his room. Maybe the orange could work. The accent wall would be the best way to go. The curtains could have and orange under layer between two shades of brown. The room could play with those colors. "Huh... that could work. It'll be a very warm colour room though." She quickly picked out two shades of brown and one nice shade of a deep orange. "Alright midget Taishos! Let's grab these colors!"
"Hey!" Rin automatically protested, "I'm not short!"
"I'm not a midget! I'm a big boy!" Naruto was quick to say.
Rin laughed along with Kagome and turned to look at her, "Yeah mom! Just because you're what? Five-seven? Please, Naruto is a big boy and I'm five one!"
Kagome shook her head laughing softly. She hugged Naruto to her, "That's right. I'm sorry Naruto you are a big boy." She gave him a quick peck on his hair. "Now my little big boy, what do you say about these colors?" She showed them the colors, which they soon agreed to.
"Excuse me?" Kagome asked an employee. When a woman turned towards her, she continued, "Yeah hi. Anyway, I was wondering if I could get two buckets of this colour and four of that one. We would like to ring it up now."
"Ring it up?" the woman asked her eyebrows furrowed in confusion.
Kagome blinked, it gently smacked her forehead, "I'm sorry I said that. Too much time in the West. What I meant was that we would like to pay for these now."
"Right. If you follow me." She said, leading them to the counter with the right amount of paint buckets.
Kagome quickly paid and had them sealed into a small scroll to take home. Next they head to a clothes store. "Alright, we're going to need to buy you some clothes. You can pick a few that you like Naru-chan, and Rin and I'll pick out the rest."
Rin and Kagome had finished picking out several shorts, pants, kimonos, shirts and jackets. They bought him several pairs of shoes and other daily requirements. "Okay kiddo, what have you picked out?"
Naruto stood happily with three bright orange color shirts. Kagome's eyes widened as did Rin's.
"Mom, that's... that's a ridiculous amount of orange." Rin whispered in disbelief.
Kagome cringed slightly, "Right." She turned towards Naruto's pile and the boy in question, "Hey there Naruto, that there is a lot of clothes."
"Owange! Mom, owange is soo cool!" Naruto exclaimed excitedly.
"That's orange sweetheart. The only time orange looks good is when you eat it. Other than that... it's begging to be attacked, mauled and well... suffocated. You don't want to be hurt do you? I would recommend the black... or the brown. Blue would look amazing on you." She paused looking down at Naruto who had now begun to pout sadly as he watched Kagome with big wide eyes. "Fine, stop it with the puppy dog eyes. You can only wear it in... very small articles... like wrist bands." She finally said with a sigh of defeat.
Naruto laughed gleefully, "Can I get this one?" He picked out an orange t-shirt and an orange tope.
Rin obviously looked at her mother in slight outrage, then quickly with her eyes communicated with her that the orange would somehow disappear in the coming days.
Kagome found herself nodding, before heading over to pay for all the things. This time however they couldn't get the stuff sealed, and ended up holding several bags of clothing. Naruto had wanted to help carry some of the stuff, so Kagome had given him a small bag that held his orange shirt and tope.
Naruto held Kagome's hand tightly as he swung them between them, chattering away like no tomorrow. Kagome smiled softly at him, and replied in all the right places. She was very happy that he was responding so well to them. But she also knew that it was very necessary to tell Naruto the whole truth. He needed to know who the Taisho really were and the secret behind his parents.
Well... his parents were an odd secret. Kagome had asked Sesshomaru who they were, but he had told her that was something that they would not allow even him to know. Of course, now Sesshomaru had taken it as a challenge. A riddle of sorts. She mentally rolled her eyes. It would only be a few days and that little riddle would be solved with a bit of extra info with it.
"Mom?" Naruto asked in confusion looking up at Kagome.
Kagome leaned down a little to listen to him, "Yes, sweetie?"
"Why's that man following us?" He said quietly in a curious voice.
Kagome's eyes hardened slightly but gave Naruto a smile, "Just your imagination sweetheart." She automatically sought the person Naruto spoke of using her spiritual powers. Anger flitted into her, "Naru-chan why don't you go to the park with Rin? I'm going to drop this stuff at home."
Naruto's smiled widened, "Yes!"
Rin looked over to her mother and nodded, understanding automatically something was up. "Come on Naru-chan how about some swings?" She handed over her bags to her mother as Naruto bounced happily beside Rin and took her hand.
"Let's go Nee-chan!"
Naruto and Rin left going towards the park. Kagome smiled kissing them both bye. She let out a sharp whistle causing everyone to turn towards her. Ignoring them she only waited about two minutes before a small three-tailed neko came running to her. The cat purred softly.
Kagome bent down to rub the cat's ears, "Hey there Kiara, I need you to do a favour..." The cat meowed and stood straighter causing Kagome to grin, "Follow that man. I want to know what you can know from him. Good luck."
The neko youkai disappeared, while Kagome continued to walk. She could tell that the man was still following her. She was sort of thankful that he wasn't following Rin or Naruto. She walked as if he wasn't there and soon reached the Clan district. She continued to walk past through several clan homes until she reached theirs. She smiled looking at the doors, and turned slightly.
The man blended into one of the walls. She sighed, so she was dealing with a ninja. She walked in, and was immediately greeted by several servants. They took her bags and took them to Naruto's room.
"Honey! I'm home!" Kagome sang out.
Sesshomaru walked out to see her standing in the foyer with her hands on her hips, "You didn't greet me." She pouted.
"I heard you far before you even reached our home. I was busy with a few documents." He shook his head and bent down to give her a gentle kiss, "A man's been following you here."
She nodded and kissed him back, "Let's go." She took his hand and they walked out, "So tell me, how your day has been?"
"The usual." Was Sesshomaru's simple reply as the stepped out he walked close to where the man stood. "I was thinking that maybe we should have these walls renovated."
Kagome nodded playing along, "Yeah, I've really been feeling like bashing it down for something far more secure... like electric fences!"
"We do not need electric fences. They are distasteful." Sesshomaru replied, "We would be better off with some sort of new wall, just with some wards."
"I could work on the spells if you like?"
"Kagome..." He leaned in, but his eyes were solely on the man. Before the man could move, Sesshomaru's poison whip had him held by his arm. Kagome had her hands glowed a radiant pink, directly before the man's jugular.
The both turned icy looks towards him, "Talk."
The man swallowed, sensing foreign powers surrounding him.
Sesshomaru's poison whip began to secret acid, "You have little choice. There has only been one person to survive this poison."
Kagome grinned wickedly, "Come on, who sent you big boy? You do realise that I am more merciful than Sesshomaru here. However, I also have the power to make you talk." Kagome then sent her powers into him. The spiritual energy sunk into his chest and throat.
"D-Danzo." The man said with a great force.
Sesshomaru nodded and narrowed his eyes, "Why?"
"T-To see i-if you were po-power-powerful."
"Who exactly?"
"Nar-uto! And you."
Kagome rolled her eyes, "You would think that after all these years that would at least attempt to instil fear me. Please, just because I'm pretty!"
"Kagome, you digress. It's time to send him back." Sesshomaru said as he released the man, "Report whatever you wish, but if you follow my family ever again you will not live nor will your leader."
Kagome's hands receded back as she stepped back, "We may be new. We may not be ninja, but we sure as hell can kick your ass."
The shinobi quickly used the body flicker technique to disappear. Kagome turned to look at Sesshomaru, "Kiara is following him and will let us know whatever this Danzo character really wants. I think it would be best to have Naruto start his training as soon as possible." Sesshomaru's arm came around her waist while the other wrapped around her shoulders, pulling her tightly against him. "I want to be sure that Naruto is able to deal with something like this... it's not fair. He's so young."
Sesshomaru's beast rumbled softly, comforting Kagome, "I was young when I first learned and I know he will not end up in the way that I did. Since, he will have a caring family and friends, where I did not. We will ensure he does not become anything he does not want to. He will make our family proud as well as live up to his own expectations." He kissed Kagome's hair, "Let's go. I believe we owe Naruto a late lunch."
Rin and Naruto were sitting together on a bench in the park eating ice cream, "Oh! Naru-chan I forgot to tell you, but we're going to be having a party in a few days."
"Pawty?"
"Yeah, it's one of those 'Here We Are!' parties. Basically it's going to be a huge banquet with all these important people coming. There's going to be food, dancing and a lot of small talk." Rin said with a shrug, "It's going to be invite only, and well Mom makes them not so boring. Like this one time we had a party for Dad's birthday, and Naru-chan let me tell you, Dad hates parties. Anyway, so Mom was all excited about having this party that she had to ward off the entire house so that Dad couldn't escape unless with her."
"What does wawaded mean?" Naruto asked.
Rin cocked her head to the left, thinking about how to word it, "It's basically using a sort of power to enforce a certain space. Like... like, when you close your bedroom door, it means that only you are in there and you'll know when someone comes in right?"
Naruto nodded slowly, "Like I'll know if Mom is coming or Dad is coming in?"
"Yeah, that's it. So anyway, Mom had warded off the rooms and doors so Dad couldn't get out and then threw him an all out masquerade ball with a costume contest. Back home, Mom was the life of the place. She had this all out massive party with tons of dancing and crazy competitions. She also somehow managed Father to act younger and a little freer. I remember she actually started a Congo line to force Father to dance with her." Rin smiled indulgently. "Naruto, I know I haven't told you... but I do have two younger brothers, and now you're my third. I'm actually... adopted just like you, so no matter what, you're my brother through and through. Got it? I'll always protect you."
"Does... it mean I have two Nii-sans?" Naruto asked quietly.
Rin grinned, "Yes you do. They're adorable really. One of them is a nerd his name is Hideaki. He can fight pretty well, but he likes to spend his time in the library or lab. Then there's Shunnuske... he's well, he travels all over the world. He's a warrior with a really big heart. He fights all over the place trying to sort through people's problems." Rin paused, "You'll meet them soon I think. They told Mom that they were going to visit later this year. I just know they'll love you."
"Okay!" Naruto replied happily with a smile. Naruto was soon discovering that his new family were everything he could have hoped for. They weren't mean, and really did care. They also went out of their way to make sure he was okay. He briefly wondered if his real parents were like this. He had learned from his first night there, that his new family was slightly odd.
In a good way. But still odd.
Like for instance, he had never met a person that talked as much as his sister. Really, she could have a conversation with herself. The fact that his father was rather obsessed with tea ceremonies or how his mother really did like to feed people just added to their unique personalities. What really intrigued him was the response he received from them. It seemed like they really loved him for who he was, and whenever someone shot him a glare or look and then sneered, they would soon turn away almost afraid of what his family's reaction would be. That feeling he could easily identify.
He had known fear really well. He had to live with it, until he was adopted. But how—or rather why did others have a sort of feared respect for the Taishos? He wondered if he should ask his family... but then he feared that he may find out something he really could live without.
He decided to go back to the task of finishing his ice cream and listening to his Nee-san. He listened as his sister rattled on about the party and guests. His face split into a wide grin as he noticed Kagome and Sesshomaru making their way to them. With a jubilant jump off the bench he quickly ran to them, but stopped before them.
Sesshomaru gave him a small pat on his head, while Kagome smiled and pulled him into a hug. "Rin get over here."
Rin skipped over and hugged Sesshomaru around the waist, and mumbled, "Why is it that you're still so tall Father?"
He shook his head and patted her head in the same manner as Naruto, "Shall we?"
"What are we having?"
"Ramen." Kagome said with a smile then rolled her eyes at Sesshomaru's annoyed look, "What? It's good. Just because Inuyasha loves it doesn't automatically mean that you can't. I know that you like it even if you won't admit it."
"What's ramen?" Naruto asked from Kagome's side.
"Well, it's noodles in a soup, I suppose. It's quite good. I'm sure you'll enjoy it." She then smiled, "You know you might like it so much that you'll give your Uncle Inuyasha a run for his money."
"Kagome must we speak of that imbecile?" Sesshomaru asked with a tired grunt, "I get enough reports about him trying to help someone only to get into more trouble or trying to enter those idiotic contests only to get sick."
Naruto smiled as he watched his Mother and Father argue and bicker playfully. Was this what a family truly felt like? He felt Kagome squeeze his hand gently.
Yes, this was exactly how a family should feel like.
"Ohmygod!" Rin squealed, "It's Kakashi-kun!"
Sesshomaru's hand came to rub small circles on his forehead, "Rin..."
Rin turned to look at her father and mother before running off, "Gotta go!"
Kagome laughed heartily, "Oh let her Sesshomaru. It's been a far too long time since she's been remotely interested in someone."
The three watched as the silver-haired teenage quickly turn and begin to walk with a fast pace away from Rin. "Kaakaasshii-kuun! He-ey! Wait, you're not supposed to run?"
"Ne, Mom why is Rin-nee-chan running after him?" Naruto asked.
Kagome giggled, "Well Naru-chan your sister seems to have developed a crush on our little white-haired friend."
"Which is absolutely unnecessary. If she wanted something, there can always be an omai or better yet nothing at all." Sesshomaru grumbled. "She's young."
"Please." Kagome scoffed, while lifting a smiling Naruto into her arms. "Ohh Naru-chan you are just too cute. I just love those blue eyes of yours."
Naruto laughed, and placed his small hands on Kagome's face. "I like youwes too."
"I'm sooo glad I get to keep you!"
Sesshomaru shook his head but smiled softly at the display. His mate truly was force of nature with the most unique personality he had met so far. They continued to walk until they saw a small kiosk type ramen place.
Kagome sniffed appreciably, "I think this place is good, ne?" She nuzzled her face playfully into Naruto's neck and shoulder causing the boy to giggle. She smiled, before giving him a quick lick between the junction of his neck and shoulder.
Naruto looked at her curiously, causing Kagome's smile to widen. "You see Naru-chan, in our clan that spot is very important. It is our way of showing affection. Your dad has a mark of the crescent moon and as do I in a pale silver. And even Rin does, it's a pale almost silver print of a sakura blossoms. Once you come of age, you will also be getting one. "
"Why?"
Sesshomaru answered, "It is the symbol of our clan and helps us connect to one another. However, only the main clan has them. I believe the Huuyuga clan has something like this except they use theirs to control others. Our marks bind us to each other."
"When will I get mine?" Naruto asked.
Kagome and Sesshomaru shared a significant look, "You will get it once you have passed your test. The test would be given to you when you hit puberty."
"Pubbpveety?"
"No sweetie, pube-rty. It's basically when you're almost as old as Rin and your body changes." Kagome answered. "Now let go and eat!" The three walked into the small stall and quickly found a small table of four.
Sesshomaru nodded his head towards the chef, "What can I get you folks?"
"Two spicy miso ramen and one beef please." Kagome replied happily.
"Coming right up." The man replied, getting to work immediately.
Naruto looked around the stall with wide eyes, and nose twitching at the scents in the air. He closed his eyes and comically inhaled. Kagome snickered into her hand leaning against Sesshomaru, while watching her son.
Sesshomaru just shook his head before clearing his throat. "Naruto."
Naruto opened his eyes and looked towards his father, "Yes?"
"Your mother and I believe that it is imperative to begin your school in academia as well as other clan related topics."
"What your father means is that, we value education over everything else. Your schedule is going to be pretty full sweetie. You're going to be learning several different languages, mathematics, science, world history, as well as our clan history and to top it off you will be learning healing from me. Your father, he's going to be teaching you different fighting styles, weaponary, sword fighting, clan specialties and transformation." Kagome said. "I know it seems like a lot honey, but you'll still have time to play and have fun."
"Its a lot." Naruto said, not really understanding everything.
"It'll be fine sweetie." Kagome reassured him. "Your father went through it and survived so did your brothers and sister. And guess what, your Uncle Inuyasha had to do that when he was almost my age and he could do it too. So you'll be fine."
Naruto gave her a small smile, he wanted to prove to his adopted parents that by adopting him that he was everything they could possibly want. The ramen came and Kagome handed Naruto the beef ramen and showed him how to eat it.
Soon both Kagome and Sesshomaru watched in mild fascination at the speed and the amount of ramen Naruto was eating.
Kagome leaned dramatically towards Sesshomaru before saying, "He's like a mini Inuyasha with all that ramen inhalation. Let's never introduce the two."
"This ish soo good!" Naruto exclaimed after his fourth bowl.
"Right. Shall we?" Sesshomaru finally said after Naruto finished two bowls later. He paid for the meal and left a hefty tip.
Kagome merely nodded and helped Naruto clean up. "Come now sweetie. Time to work off all that food."
Naruto nodded a little sadly to leave the best place for food and took Kagome's hand as the family walked home.
"Get down from there!" Kagome called, clearly frustrated. Her hands rested on her hips, while her eyes were narrowed looking up at her son in the tree. "I mean it Naruto. Don't make me come up there myself!"
Naruto looked down from his high perch on the tree. He knew if he was to surrender, he would be surrendering himself to his sister and mother. After several days of living together with them, he knew just how hyperactive they became once the task of dressing Naruto ever came up. Really, he would gladly stay up here.
"Naruto Minato Taisho, get your bum down here, or so help me—" Kagome threatened.
"But Moooommm! You and Nee-chan are too excited!" Naruto complained.
Kagome huffed, "I warned you..." She lifted up her hands and pressed them tightly together before releasing and pushing a pink energy into the ground. The ground began to lift her easily to be directly at her son's face. With a smirk, Kagome plucked Naruto off the branch and held him under her right arm before gently pushing her left hand down, in sync with the ground lowering.
"Now Naruto, we have a party tonight. And really, I could care less what you or your father's opinion is. The two of you are going. And you will look great and have fun!" Kagome said rather heatedly. "I don't understand why you two must insist on creating so many issues, when clearly I've been planning this little gathering for a while and by the gods it will be a success."
Naruto helpless dangled underneath his mother's arm. Trying and definitely not succeeding in trying to get someone's attention or help and that's when he saw his Father turn into the hallway. "DAD!" he cried out desperately.
Sesshomaru's eyes looked down at his son, and then the expression on his wife's face. "Koi, what are you doing?"
"I am taking your son to get ready. The party is supposed to begin in less than half an hour and he's still undressed."
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow, "I can take young Naruto and help him dress."
Kagome mirrored his expression, "Oh, is that so?"
"Hnn. You can do what is needed to be done, dear one." Sesshomaru replied tenderly as he gently took Naruto into his arms, and pressed a gentle kiss on his mate's lips.
She sighed, and noticed that Naruto was watching them with a small smile on his lips. She gave in and smiled right back at the two. "Alright. But if the two of you aren't ready in ten minutes, I'm banning ramen from the house for ten days and warding your study." With a look that actually promised pain, she left her men.
Both Sesshomaru and Naruto heaved a sigh of relief.
"Wow, Dad, how'd you do that?" Naruto asked.
"That my dear son, is something that can only be learned once you are married. I'm sure you will learn of it in the years to follow."
Naruto was then showered quickly and dressed in a very formal and beautiful pale blue kimono with a silver obi. Sesshomaru then knelt down to Naruto's eye level. "Naruto, I am going to gift to you my fang. It will always protect you and when you are older, you will be able to make the weapon of your choice from it."
Naruto nodded, and Sesshomaru lifted a white-gold chain with a canine strung around Naruto's neck. "Excellent." He then kissed him on his forehead, and lifted him into his arms. "Now... this party will be long and boring. If there is any need that you have, come find me or your mother and we will make sure you are good."
"Dad, Nee-chan said this was imp—what is that wooed?" Naruto asked.
"Important. And yes it is. We are to greet the major people of this village."
"Why?"
"You will learn soon enough." Sesshomaru paused in the hallway, before looking down at his son, "Listen, you are a Taisho. You are better than those out there and you will not tolerate any sort of misconduct upon you. If anyone is to say or do anything hurtful to you, you report to your mother, sister or me immediately."
Naruto nodded and tucked his head into his father's neck. Sesshomaru patted his back a few times before continuing down the hallway to sitting room where his wife and daughter were. He gave a gentle smile to his wife, as he noticed she looked like the queen she was in her silver and midnight blue kimono with their clan insignia. His daughter was dressed in a more modern style kimono with a large obi and delicate patterns in a pale blue with silver embroidery. Her kimono also had the clan insignia, but she also wore the clan flowers in silver earrings. He gently let Naruto down who was instantly glomped upon by Rin.
"Ohh! Sooo cutte!" Rin squealed, "I swear little brother, you are going to be a heart breaker when you grow up!" She gasped, "Mom! Camera! We need pictures!"
Kagome pulled out a camera from within her sleeve and let her daughter force all four of them in nice pictures with different poses. However it was clear after five minutes, that both Sesshomaru and Naruto were tired of the fifty or so pictures that had already been taken. Kagome just laughed in amusement, "Rin, dear you are going to have trouble finding a man."
"Mom! You can't say stuff like that!" Rin cried horrified. "It's bad luck!"
"She's not going to find a man." Sesshomaru stressed.
"Oh that's right, she's going to bag herself a ninja." Kagome snickered.
"What's that mean?" Naruto asked curiously, looking at his sister who was a nice shade of red.
"It means little Naruto that your sister has a crush."
"Mom!"
"Kagome."
"Naru-chan! Help your mother out here!" Naruto just laughed and went over to hug his mom. Kagome quickly wrapped him into a hug and laughed softly. "See he agrees with me."
A servant came into the room and bowed lowly, "My Lord and Lady, the guests are beginning to arrive."
"Thank you." Kagome quickly replied and began to straighten everyone up as quickly as she could. "Smiles darlings, smiles."
Rin giggled as she basically danced through the air to the main entertaining hall. Kagome held Naruto's hand as she followed her daughter with Sesshomaru right beside her. The family entered the room, and the live orchestra began a very slow and steady play of music.
Soon, the entire Taisho clan found themselves greeting dozens of guests and their families. Sesshomaru was mingled with both the ninja clans as well as the more prominent business entrepreneurs. Rin found herself engrossed in a group of ninjas that spoke of some of their missions. Kagome was fast becoming a favorite of all the guests. She flitted through the groups of people, quickly learning their names and other things about them. She almost danced as she soon engaged a group of women and men in little games or the fascination of the Clan.
Naruto was either with his mother or father, but soon drifted away outside to get some air and away from the festivities. He aimlessly walked around before he decided to climb into the tree he had been in before. However, not before testing the ground several times with his feet and hands. He then happily swung his legs while watching the sky turn into night. He watched as a little girl with short midnight blue hair walk out and sit under the tree he was perched on.
He watched her curiously as she began to sing softly and blue lights began to form around her. His head tilted slightly as he watched the energy around her rise slightly and began to dance around. He sniffed the air and with a shocked blink realized that the energy was very similar to his mother's pink energy. Was she like his mother? He jumped down and startled the girl.
"W-Who are y-you?" she asked. Her voice was small, and held a bit of fear.
He regarded her carefully, but his instincts told her that she was to be trusted. "Hi I'm Naruto." He grinned at her.
She blinked, "H-Hi I-I'm Hin-Hinata."
He nodded, before asking, "The blue lights were cool! They look like Mom's! How'd you do that?"
"i-I don't k-know." She answered shyly.
"They were cool!" Naruto repeated. "how old are you?"
"Th-ree."
"Me too!" Naruto exclaimed surprised.
Hinata nodded, before leaning back on the tree and closing her eyes. Naruto smiled at her, somehow she reminded him of both his parents. He sat down beside her and watched as she began to rise the blue lights around them again. She began to sing again and Naruto found himself softly humming the tune along with her. Unknowingly, Naruto's aura expanded and started to flow over Hinata's. The two auras battled until finally Hinata's aura succumbed to Naruto's and let it soothe her.
The light blue lights began to dance around the two as they continued to sing the tune of their very own matting process.
Kagome walked towards Sesshomaru, "Have you seen Naruto?"
He looked up from the group of people he was talking to and shook his head slightly, but then he tilted his head towards the back. She sighed before nodding her thanks. She had hoped her son would have found some entertainment in this party. But like most of the Taisho males, with the exception of her son Shunnuske, she figured he would be outside. Most likely in a good damn tree.
What was it with demons and trees? Was it some sort of connection with nature? But hey, she didn't need to climb a freaking tree to feel the connection. And she was very intoned with nature. She walked out only to stop as she took in the scene before her. A woman with long brown hair and lavender eyes was also watching the scene with a smile.
Kagome watched as the light blue lights emitted from the small girl and twirled around playfully as the danced with her soft song. She watched as her son hummed along, his aura entwine slowly but strongly with the girl's, already creating the first bond of the mating ritual.
Her eyes widened, "Well who would have thought?"
The woman beside her hummed, "Yes, I believe your son is with my daughter."
Kagome studied the woman carefully before turning back to the two children. "Your daughter has entered the first phase of our clan's mating process." It was only fair that the woman know what her daughter was getting into.
"Interesting." She replied. "He is a demon."
"Not now, but he will be one." Kagome answered honestly. Though Naruto was not one now, she knew that with Shippo inside him, it would only be a few years before the two merged into one and Shippo's soul became Naruto's inner beast.
"How am I able to trust your clan?"
"Simply because we are the only that can control their own demons, not to mention we have never given a reason for anyone to not trust us." Kagome paused, "Also, your daughter has very strong spiritual powers that can be the only tamed by Naruto, and vice versa for my son."
"Well then, I supposed it is only prudent to say, welcome to the family Lady Taisho."
Kagome giggled, "That is correct, welcome to the family Lady Hyuuga."
The woman laughed silently, "They are going to be a hand full aren't they?"
"Naruto wouldn't be my son if trouble didn't follow him everywhere."
"You don't suppose now would be a good time to invest into a much better life insurance plan?"
"Oh, I'm sure I would rather invest in hair dye that I will surely need."
"Is that right?"
"Oh come on, you can see the strong auras surrounding those two children. You probably already feel their connection in your blood, as I do. It will only be a few years before we're planning their wedding."
"I wonder would a spring wedding be better than a fall one."
"The colours are absolutely gorgeous during both times."
"Maybe... whites and golds?"
"Possibly, though our clan colors are silver and blue."
"And outdoor wedding?"
"Oh their children will be simply gorgeous!"
"I need to start on her etiquette classes."
"I wonder if they'll let me name their first born."
"I believe it's my daughter that would have the child, so it is only natural that I name the child."
"Uh, no... My son will be providing the seed."
The two woman argued good naturedly with one another before walking back inside together to further discuss the union of the two clans in the future. The two children had no idea what they had just gotten into.
The party had winded down by the wee hours of the morning. Kagome had already set her son to bed, while her daughter was trudging towards her own chambers, completely exhausted.
Kagome felt her husband come behind her, and she leaned back falling into his chest. Sesshomaru's beast rumbled soothing her. "I love parties."
Sesshomaru smiled before pressing a light kiss in her hair, "Come, let us retire."
Kagome nodded but didn't move. She felt her mate's momoko wrap around her and pull her into his arms. She brought her arms to wrap around Sesshomaru's neck. "I have to tell you something."
He continued to carry her to their chambers. "Is it about the auras I felt earlier."
Kagome pouted sleepily, "That's not fair! You can't take my excitement like that." He gave her an amused look before acknowledging her to continue. "Okay, so little Naruto has recognized the Hyuuga heir as his mate."
"Is that so?"
"Maru-chan! Please be a little more happy."
"I am happy for the child. If the girl is truly his mate."
"She is. I saw Naruto's aura dominate her auras before beginning to bind it to him. I'm surprised at the rate that Shippo is merging into him."
Sesshomaru hummed thoughtfully. "If that is the case, he must be told immediately about this change and begin training. He must become accustomed to the metamorphosis." He opened their door and laid his mate gently on their bed before beginning to strip away her heavy clothes and jewellery.
"Sesshomaru... I don't know how he'll react."
"He will be fine since he is so young. Trust me koi. He is a strong soul." He moved to remove his clothing as well. Then his shoes before slipping into the soft bed as his mate.
She turned and faced him before borrowing into his embrace. "I really feel like he's my blood."
"Kagome, we will have to tie him with blood to our family. I can smell some of our link to him, most likely through Shippo."
"He's my son Sesshomaru."
"As he is mine."
"He will do great things, along with his mate." Kagome said then she looked up to make eye contact with her husband, "She has a pure holy aura. I wish to train her."
He sighed, "She belongs to the Hyuuga clan. They do not accept their members to know anything except for their own way. I am sorry Kagome, however it will be difficult to have the clan agree to any training from you."
"Maybe I should slip some books into her bag once she is school going age. Or to her mother, she seemed pretty accepting." Kagome let out a small yawn, she truly was tired.
"Alright my little manipulating mate, it is time to sleep." He tucked her into his embrace and his beast began to rumble soothing his mate to sleep.
Naruto had become used to his daily schedule after nearly a month living with his family. He had surprised his mother at how quickly he picked up on things as long as they were explained. He also showed great interest in reading, which Kagome was gleeful about.
He had started simple defense training with his father in the afternoon and was progressing steadily for a three year old. His sister taught him the arts with passion, and he would constantly find himself either being taken to the garden by Rin for feeling nature's true art of life or taken out around town to show the history of the village.
It was on a rainy day that Sesshomaru had called Naruto into his study. This was not unusual, as he usually found himself there before their training would commence. The thing that did surprise him once he entered was that his mother was there as well. The two looked weary, and a little apprehensive—well Kagome did. His father had is immaculate emotionless face.
"Sit Naruto." Sesshomaru commanded.
Naruto blinked before taking his place before his parents. He was scared. Maybe they didn't want him anymore?
Kagome began, "Naruto you know that three years ago a fox demon attacked the village, and the Hokage of the time defeated the demon." She paused, "Well, that's the story that this village is telling themselves."
Naruto looked with wide eyes as his confusion increased. Kagome's hand moved as if wanting to move towards her son, before changing her mind. "The truth was that I had another son. His name was Shippo, he was a fox demon."
"He disappeared." Sesshomaru answered Naruto's silent question. "Shippo was the strongest fox demon in the hemisphere. Somehow something controlled him and forced him to attack this village. The Hokage was forced to seal the demon within a new born child."
Kagome watched her son carefully before saying, "It was you Naruto. You were that child."
Naruto's eyes widened before tears gathered as he began to softly cry. Kagome quickly rushed to her child and pulled him into her lap. "Naruto, please. You are not a monster, you are who you want to be. We would never allow anything to happen to you. Please, baby. You have to believe us."
"M-Mom." He gasped before turning into his mother's arm and crying a little more into the junction of her neck and shoulder.
Sesshomaru moved beside his wife and his adopted son. "Naruto, our clan is of demons. We are all like you. You are not the only one. We will perform a new seal and spell that will allow Shippo to merge into your being as one. He will not take over your body, once your mother has destroyed the spell that had caused him to attack Konoha."
Kagome stroked his hair to have him calm down, "Honey you will be you. Your father is a dog demon, and the strongest demon around. No one can defeat him. We will make sure that you do not become what you fear. Sweetie, your aura is strong. Your ki is amazing and you will have no problem in becoming anything you want to be."
"You will be protected. And once you begin the right training, you will learn to control your beast." Sesshomaru pulled Naruto's face from Kagome's embrace. He gently turned him towards him so he could make eye contact, "You will have nothing to fear once you know how to control the beast. You will not only be able to protect yourself but those close to you as well."
"Yes, sweetie. You can make sure your friend Hinata-chan will always be safe from harm." Kagome added.
Naruto turned from one parent to the other. He knew that his parents and well his family accepted him. He was worried what Hinata-chan would think. He hadn't seen her since the party almost a two weeks ago. He really wanted to see her again...
But if he was able to be strong he could make sure she was always safe.
He would make sure she would never feel the hatred that people had of him, now that he knew the true reason for it. He silently promised himself that he would do anything for her, since she was the first, asides from his family to be kind to him.
Making up his mind he turned towards his father before nodding, "Dad, can you twain me?"
Sesshomaru then smirked, "Oh yes son. I believe I can train you to surpass anyone in this village aside from your mother and me."
With that Naruto had sealed his next ten years into the most vigorous training known to anyone except for the clan of Taisho.
Preview
"What are you doing?" Naruto asked with his head cocked to the right, "Because if Mom finds you peeking into her bath, she's going to skin you alive and then Dad is going to dunk you into something acidic before finding a way to keep you alive and conscious while extracting all your organs out of your body and crushing them before your eyes."
"Kakashi-san, Rin-san while be aiding you in this mission."
"Ohmygod! Look! Look!" Kagome pointed with gleeful eyes, "They're holding hands!"
"I find myself over millennia old, and yet my dear mate you always surprise me by the situations you get into." He sighed before warily looking at the mess, "Really Naruto must you try to humour your mother, we all know she is rather eccentric. Next time save each other by not aiding the other."
Her eyebrows twitched dangerously. Her lips a thin line of obvious anger, "Would someone mind telling me why you three would think it is a grand idea to teach a six year old how to gamble?"
His eyes widened, okay so maybe he had just been defeated by a girl, but that didn't mean that he would agree with her. However when she looked at him with a smirk, he just knew he was doomed for the rest of eternity. He liked her. Fuck, he really was doomed.
