The Beast Within
Chapter 4: Missions
I haven't gotten a single review on this story yet. I would really appreciate one if that isn't too much trouble. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.
Tala and her team just returned from their latest string of d-ranked missions. Their team specialized in finding lost pets. Faith noticed Tala was in a mood. She seemed unfocused, even if she were extremely dangerous.
"That's enough training for today enjoy your weekend", said Sensei Hanabi.
"Thank you, Sensei", said the student.
"Why are we ending early?" asked Metal.
"I have a meeting with the Hokage. That's enough questions", said Hanabi.
They watched their sensei walked away.
"I should get going. I promised mom I would help her at the curry shop", said Metal.
"Alright see you later", said Tala.
Metal disappeared in a flash of green and orange. Tala didn't want to go home alone.
"You want to hang out at my house", she asked.
Faith nodded. As she was home before five so she wouldn't miss the daily bug collection with her dad Faith was perfectly happy spending time with Tala.
"I wonder what the Hokage has to speak of", she said.
Tala shrugged her shoulders. She honestly didn't care what Sensei and Lord Hokage had to speak. In the back of her mind, she knew it could be of her. Well, about the beast within her. Meanwhile, at the Hokage's Residence Hanabi waited outside of Naruto's office. The doors opened and Shizune allowed her.
"How are you and your squad?" asked Naruto.
"Very well. They are improving so rapidly it amazes me", said Hanabi.
"That's wonderful", said Naruto.
"You didn't only call me here for a report on my students", she said.
Naruto put down his papers.
"You're one of the few that know what Tala is. Most of your fellow jonin have no idea of what she contains. They think she's only a gifted genin with a massive chakra surplus. I've seen in person what she can do with the power", he said.
That beast she turned into was unlike any he'd seen before. Even the nine tails showed a slight fear toward the ancient power.
"Has there been any sign of the weakening?" asked Naruto.
"None", said Hanabi.
Naruto opened a desk drawer and took a seal. He pushed it toward Hanabi.
"I should have given you sooner", he said.
"Why are you giving this to me now?" asked Hanabi.
"Your team is one of the most gifted among the genin squads from their graduating class. I'm considering allowing them to have a C-ranked mission. If you believe them capable", said Naruto.
"I full faith in their abilities", said Hanabi.
She took the seal from Naruto's desk.
"I hope you never have to use it", he said.
"I as well", said Hanabi.
They went to the main house of the Inuzuka territory. The two girls went into the kitchen where Tsume set out a plate of ham and turkey sandwiches.
"Your parents haven't returned from their mission yet have they", said Faith.
Tala frowned and tried to focus on her sandwich. She ended up tossing it Shiromaru who quickly gobbled it down. He jumped into her lap, sensing her discomfort and worry. She wasn't the only one concerned. Shiromaru was worried for his father.
"They are talented jonin. I'm sure they're fine", said Faith.
Faith hugged her friend to try further comfort her friend.
"I know", said Tala.
"How long were they suppose to be gone?" asked Faith.
"Only a week. It's been two", said Tala.
"Come on let's watch TV. Isn't Too Cute on?" said Faith.
There was no way that show wouldn't manage to put a brief smile on her face.
"Sure, that sounds good", said Tala.
The two girls took a seat on the couch and turned on the TV. Faith couldn't imagine what it would like to have both parents as ninjas. After a marathon of watching cute kittens and puppies, Tala got up from the couch.
"Where are you going?" asked Faith.
"I have to pick up my brother from the academy", said Tala.
"Isn't he a bit old for that?" asked Faith.
"Yes, but my grandma asked me to", said Tala.
"Isn't he a bit old for that?" Faith.
"Yes, but she's an elder. I have to respect her wishes", said Tala.
Tala put on her shoes.
"Where is she anyway?" asked Faith.
"At a gathering of the other elders", said Tala.
"What do you think they do there?" asked Faith.
"Not a clue. They could be playing bridge for all I know", said Tala.
"I'll see you later, Faith", she said.
The two girl went their separate ways. Tala started her way to the Academy. Shiromaru ran a head of her chasing a butterfly. She wished she could be so easily distracted from her worry. Her brother was just as worried about their parents as she was even more so since he was younger. The alpha would never admit it though. Tala tried not to let her worry show so she could be strong support for Lycan.
Lycan sat in his last class of the day, Strategy. It was one of the few classes Iruka Sensei taught. He sat in between his two closest friends Luka and Talon. He kept twitching. Keeper kept pacing around his chair. The dog wanted out of the class room as soon possible just like his master.
"Let's sneak out", said Keeper.
Lycan got up from his seat.
"Lycan, I assume since you getting up you have the answer to this scenario", said Iruka.
On the blackboard was a diagram him couldn't understand.
"This my answer sensei. Sexy jutsu",
In a puff of smoke, a beautiful naked woman stood in his place. Iruka sensei fell backward with a bloody nose. A few moments later Iruka recovered.
"That's it, Lycan, you have two hours of detention in my office after class", he said.
Lycan groaned and slouched back into his seat. His friends stayed behind.
"Don't wait up", said Lycan.
After class, he followed Headmaster Iruka to his office. Instead of yelling at him like he thought he would Iruka explained the problem to him, taking time so he would understand.
"Lycan, you have just much potential as your sister you just have to be willing to work for it. And you must stop this foolish behavior", said Iruka.
Tala surprised when her brother was running later than usual.
"They must have gotten themselves in trouble again", said Tala.
"Why must they always do this?" asked Shiromaru.
"I don't know. I might live with three men but doesn't mean I understand the foolish mind of a ten-year-old boy", said Tala.
She went to the headmaster's office and knocked on the door. Iruka's assistant was looking over some paperwork.
"My brother in there?" asked Tala.
"Yes", she said.
"How long this time?" asked Tala.
"Two hours", said the assistant.
"When he gets out tell him I'm waiting for him in the training room", said Tala.
Tala shook her head. Her brother was a great guy and much smarter than people gave him credit for. Why did he always have to get into trouble? Tala lived with three men and thought she had a pretty good understanding of them, but her ten-year-old brother could be a complete mystery to her.
"Come on Shiromaru", said Tala.
The assistant nodded. Two hours later Lycan was free from detention.
"Your sister is waiting for you in the training arena", said the assistant.
When Lycan went to the training arena, he saw Tala sparring with some student who had dared to challenge her. It obvious to him that she was putting very little effort into the process. She actually seemed bored with activity.
"That's enough for now", said Tala.
She went to her brother.
"What did you do this time?" asked Tala.
"I knocked out the headmaster for a few moments", said Lycan.
"How did you manage that?" asked Tala.
"I used the sexy jutsu on him", said Lycan.
"Where did you learn that technique?" asked Tala.
"From Boruto", said Lycan.
Tala scowled.
"What happened between the two of you?" asked Lycan.
"Why don't you ask the jack ass?" said Tala.
"Will you tell on me?" asked Lycan.
"There's nothing I can do about you getting in trouble, but I won't mention you knowing the sexy jutsu", said Tala.
"Are they home yet?" asked Lycan.
She shook her head. Lycan's shoulders sagged.
"We should get back", said Tala.
They left together.
"So we're stuck at grandma's again", he whined.
"It isn't so bad", said Tala.
"We've been there for two weeks. Her house smells like old lady and dog", whined Lycan.
Tala slapped her brother on the back of the head.
"What was that for?!" he growled.
"You should respect your elders", said Tala.
"Who made you the boss of me?!" snarled Lycan.
"Pack hierarchy. Unless you want to challenge me", said Tala.
At that moment Talon and Luka decided to appear. The never seemed to miss a chance to watch Tala kick Lycan's ass in a Challenge Match. These matches happen between all members one clan or others to see how they ranked in strength. It was a great way to burn off energy and build friendly rivalries.
"You show up now", said Lycan.
"And miss a chance to see the two of you fight", said Talon.
"We won't do this here. Papa and Dad will be pissed if they have to pay damages", said Tala.
Lycan flinched, remembering the last time he caused more than five hundred dollars worth in damages. His dad blew a fuse and yelled at him for an hour. Papa just gave him that disappointed look.
"Then at my house", said Luka.
The kids ran to Luka's house. They stopped when they reached the trying grounds a few acres behind Luka's home. The earth was cratered from many intense spars. Senna stepped onto the grounds she'd just returned from a C-ranked mission with her team. She loved watching Tala put Lycan into place. Senna herself great enjoyed putting Luka in place.
"How badly do you think he'll lose this time?" she asked.
"Depends on what kind of mood Tala is in", said Luka.
"There's a chance he might win", said Talon.
"Doubt it", said Senna.
Tala and Lycan stepped forward. Shiromaru jumped from her shoulder, taking a protective stance in front of her. His hair bristled and he bared his teeth. Lycan and Tala's features became more beast like.
"Man Beast Clones",
Two versions of Lycan appeared in front of Tala. From scent, she could tell them a part. She wouldn't use the same jutsu unless she felt it necessary. Tala had never felt the need.
"Give your best shot little brother", said Tala.
"You'll need it!" growled Shiromaru.
Tala didn't even bother with using her Byugan. She easily side stepped avoiding the rapidly spinning targets surging her way. Shiromaru yawned he and his master had done this fight a hundred times before and one every time, yet Tala kept accepting his challenges. Tala and Shiromaru kept dodging until their opponent noticeable slowed. Tala took this moment to strike. Shiromaru came charging forward, keeping Keeper distracted.
Tala grabbed her brother's arm and tapped two of her fingers against his chest. In a puff of smoke, Keeper appeared in her brother's place. Tala swiftly cut off the chakra access. He'd be almost worthless in battle now. She tossed the dog a side. Tala heard a whine. She ran to catch Shiromaru who'd been hit by Lycan's Gentle Fist.
"You okay, boy", asked Tala.
"Fine, but got a few my chakra points. I'm unable to access my full abilities", said Shiromaru.
Tala smiled she was actually proud of what her brother was able to accomplish. He successfully tricked her.
"You switched shampoos", she said.
"Didn't think you would actually fall for it", said Lycan.
"You're learning. I'm impressed", said Tala.
When her brother got close she punched him in the gut, sending him crashing through a tree. It wasn't enough power to cause him any real harm. Only enough to make him go unconscious for a bit.
"Told you she would win", said Luka.
Senna got up from her seat.
"Do want a greater challenge?" she asked.
"I'll pass", said Tala.
Luka spared a glance at his unconscious cousin.
"Will he be okay?" asked Luka.
"He'll be back to his annoying loud mouth soon. So let's enjoy peace", said Tala.
Tala caught a ninja star in between her fingers.
"Awake already baby brother", she said with a smirk.
"Why don't you three boys play video games", said Senna.
"I did just get a new game", said Luka.
With that boys went running into the house.
Senna took a seat next to her cousin in the grass.
"You've completed more than eight D-ranked mission. That qualifies you for the chunin exam", said Senna.
"I've only been a genin for two months. All my team done is track down lost pets and do other community work. Unlike you. You've done almost ten high C-ranked missions. That's real experience", said Tala.
"Yet you many believe you are already at jonin level", said Senna.
Tala blushed. Senna was amazed by her cousin. She was constantly growing. Eventually, she wouldn't be able to keep up with Tala's progress.
"Why hasn't your team entered yet?" asked Tala.
"Sensei doesn't believe us ready yet", said Senna.
Senna's sensei was Crane Kaze. He was the first cousin to Sparrow Kaze the current Clan Alpha of the Kaze family. He was remarkably talented in both long range and close range battle tactics.
"You know how he is", said Senna.
When Crane moves it's slow and never rushes even under strain, very much like the bird he was named after. Don't let his nature fool you. The man was capable of great speed and deadly accuracy.
"Do you think he'll enter you this time around?" asked Tala.
"I hope so, but the choice is his", said Senna.
"I would hate to be your opponent", said Tala.
It would be an interesting battle thought Senna. She would love to go against Tala. No restraints to finally see who was stronger. That was her Inuzuka blood speaking. She loved the thrill and challenge of battle.
"I don't understand why you blush every someone compliments you on your skills. I know a real reason for you to be blushing", said Senna.
The outlines of a smirk could be seen through her mask.
"What?" asked Tala.
"A guy was asking about you", said Senna.
Senna nearly laughed when Tala turned as red as a tomato. Theo was asking about her. He thought she was cute. They'd make a cute couple if Uncle Kiba didn't scare him off. He knew how to use the clan alpha scare tactics better than anyone. It sounded as if he were only curious. Males always take longer to mature.
"Really?" asked Tala.
Never had Senna seen Tala turn such a shade of red.
"Who?" she asked.
"It isn't for me to tell", said Senna.
"Oh come on! You can't just tell me that and not give me a name", said Tala.
"Guess", said Senna.
"Shikadai?" asked Tala.
"Nope, but wouldn't surprise me if he did", said Senna.
"Come on he's my best friend. He doesn't feel that way about me", said Tala.
"You never know", said Senna.
"I know my friend. He isn't the type to have a crush", said Tala.
Tala played with her fingers.
"Do you ever worry about your parents while they're on missions?" she asked.
"Dad retired and Mom is mostly a vet now. So it isn't a concern", said Senna.
"What about when he was Hokage?" asked Tala.
"Yes, but I never had the worry of losing both of them", said Senna.
Tala put her head in her hands.
"I'm sorry, Tala. I'm sure they're fine. Let's play shogi ", said Senna.
Tala nodded and Senna set out the board and put on the pieces. They sat down and enjoyed a few rounds of the game. At seven, it was about time leave for dinner at Grandma's.
"One more round", said Senna.
"I wish but you know how pissed grandma gets when we're late", said Tala.
"Can't blame you for wanting to avoid that hell", said Senna.
Tala went the living room and saw Lycan and Luka were enthralled in their video games.
"Lycan, it's time to go. You know how grandma gets if we keep her waiting too long", said Tala.
"One more game", he whined.
"No", said Tala.
She didn't have the patience for this. Tala grabbed Lycan by the ear and dragged him out of the room.
"SHIT!" he growled.
When she pushed him out the front door she released her death grip on his ear. He rubbed his ear.
"What the hell was that for?" asked Lycan.
"You weren't moving quickly enough", said Tala.
"I don't understand why they can't just let us stay at home alone", said Lycan.
"I wish they would too. I'm eleven I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself. You should be with grandma", said Tala.
"Hey, I'm perfectly capable of taking caring of myself", said Lycan.
"Says the boy who can't do his own laundry", said Tala.
Tala and Lycan went to their grandma's house. She was sitting at the table, tapping her fingers angrily against the surface.
"Sorry for being late", said Tala.
"Yeah sorry we caught up playing with Talon and Luka", said Lycan.
She walked up to them and viscously pinched their cheeks. They both endured the pain.
"It's alright", said Tsume.
Tala and Lycan both licked their lips at the wonderful meal their grandma had set out for them. Marrow, pork dumplings, rice, and a vegetable dish.
"It looks great", said Tala.
"Yeah", said Lycan.
Tsume was surprised by her grandchildren reaction. Normally, they would be fighting each other for the best pieces of meat. Or gobbling down her cooking. They were poking at their food.
"Why aren't you eating? Is something wrong with the food?" asked Tsume.
"No, it's great", said Tala.
"Just not all that hungry", said Lycan.
Tsume sighed. The pups missed their parents. They'd never admit it they were too proud.
"They'll be back soon little ones", said Tsume.
She let the pups stay up late hoping it would help the sleep. Soon enough they were asleep.
Kiba sat anxiously by a hospital bed. Their mission in the Hidden Steam Village went terribly. The group of bandits they were sent to capture were experts at avoiding trackers, so the assignment took longer. Their employers left out the piece of information. They weren't able to find them until a few days ago.
The smoke bombs they'd set off were laced with an intense pepper spray mixture and tear that numb their senses. It did a number on each of their senses. Their clogged their nose. It had a worse effect on Neji's eyes. He was temporarily blinded. Bandages were wrapped around them blocking out the light. Tsunade sent a remedy by bird deeming the Steam Village Healer inadequate to treat such a thing. It should be here soon. There was a peck on the window.
"What's that?" asked Neji as he turned the head in the direction.
"Windsheer with your eye medicine", said Kiba.
Kiba opened the window. The small bird landed on his shoulder. Windsheer a White Throated Needletail. He's the fastest bird in the Kaze Clan. Windsheer could out race any bird of prey. On his back was a backpack, containing the proper medicine. On his leg was a message. Another bird followed a few moments later with another thing of medicine. He unraveled the message. Kiba smirked.
"What does it say?" asked Neji.
"A description of the medicine. Tsunade also says the pups are fine", said Kiba.
Neji smiled slightly.
"How many times do I have to take it?" asked Neji.
"Twice a day for a week. And you have to keep your eyes covered. Your bandages have to be changed twice a day", said Kiba.
"Simple enough", said Neji.
Kiba asked a nurse for supplies. She gave her a large bag of bandages.
"Thanks", he said.
Kiba closed the blinds so the sunlight wouldn't harm Neji's sensitive eyes. He carefully unwound the bandages over his mate's eyes. Kiba couldn't help hiss in reaction. The whites of Neji's eyes were terribly blood shot. The skin around them was red and puffy.
"It's that bad", said Neji.
"It isn't", lied Kiba.
"You're lying. That's sweet but unneeded", said Neji.
"Does it still hurt?" asked Kiba.
"Yes, it burns", said Neji.
"Can you see me?" asked Kiba.
Neji shook his head. What if this change is permanent? How would he be able to help protect their family? A shinobi was the only career he knew. Being on disability wouldn't be enough to support to growing children.
"I can see you thinking. I'm sure your sight will return in time", said Kiba.
"I hope", said Neji.
"The eye drops may sting a bit", said Kiba.
He raised Neji's chin and gently tilted his head back. He flinched slightly, trying not to give away how intensely it hurt. Tears wouldn't stop flowing down his cheeks.
"Why can't I stop crying?" he asked.
He hated such a demeaning motion.
"The side effect of the medicine. Crying helps cleanse your eyes natural along with the aid of the medicine", said Kiba.
Kiba opened a jar of mint green colored paste. He carefully spread it around Neji's eyes. The omega gave a sigh of relief as the burning around his eyes mellowed. Kiba placed goss over Neji's eyes and wrapped the bandages around the omega's eyes. A man walked in. Kiba would have sensed him early if his sense of smell wasn't clogged with the sickening scent of pepper. He took a protective stance in front of Neji's bed.
"Who are you?" asked Kiba.
"I'm Jun, the assistant to the chieftain of the village", he answered.
He tossed him a wad of bills. Kiba quickly counted through.
"This isn't enough. You owe us at least double. This is a tourist trap you should have more than enough", growled Kiba.
"Fine", said Jun throwing another wad of cash.
Kiba shoved into his back pocket.
"You can leave at any time", he said.
Jun left.
"I want to go home. Our pups are probably worried", said Neji.
Kiba sighed he missed them as well.
"Are you sure you're ready?" asked Kiba.
"I'm blind, not immobile. With you and Akamaru I'm sure I'll be fine", said Neji.
Kiba helped Neji pack up his bag. He held Neji's hand so he would have some guidance as they traveled. Neji tensed. He heard someone approaching from behind them. Kiba hadn't yet to pick up on it. Neji sniffed it was a scent he recognized. Bandits were on them moments later.
"You really chose the wrong the people", said Kiba as he cracked his knuckles.
Kiba attacked it was done in moments. His eyes were a dangerous shade of golden brown. Neji didn't have to see the alpha to know there was a change it. He could smell the change in his pheromones. The bandits that were capable of running did so. Neji squeezed Kiba's hand. He nuzzled against the alpha's neck. Kiba relaxed.
"Don't lose out to your alpha", said Neji as he ran his fingers through his messy hair.
"Yes, my love", said Kiba.
They made it home. It was late when they made it home. Kiba was amazed to see Neji weave his way through their without stumbling once.
"I know my home, Kiba", said Neji.
He saw Neji sitting in their bed. Kiba changed.
"Need help?" he asked.
Neji nodded. Kiba helped his mate of his clothes. If he were in his younger day he would have loved to take advantage of the situation. Hell, he was tired. Sex was the last thing on his mind. He helped Neji into clothes. Kiba unwound the bandages around Neji's head. He put the eye drops in his Neji eyes. The omega flinched.
"We'll see the pups in the morning", said Kiba.
He wrapped his arms tightly around Neji's waist.
"Goodnight beautiful", said Kiba.
"Goodnight", he said.
The next morning Tala picked up on her parents' scent. She jumped out of bed, sending Shiromaru flying. He barked.
"Sorry boy", said Tala.
She quickly dressed. Tala rushed home. She ran into the kitchen. Papa was sitting at the table, she didn't take notice of the bandages around his eyes. Tala wrapped her arms tightly around his neck.
"Papa", she said.
He smiled and wrapped his arms around her.
"Tala", he said.
She pulled away from him.
"What happened to your eyes?" asked Tala.
"I was hit tear gas. It temporary blinded me", said Neji.
He felt his pup's worry. Neji didn't even want to know how Lycan would respond to this.
"I'll be fine. Tsunade crafted this medicine herself", said Neji.
"Have you done your morning dose yet?" asked Tala.
"Not yet", said Neji.
"Let me", said Tala.
Neji nodded. She carefully unwound the bandages around his head. Tala tossed the spoiled bondages in the trash. With a warm cloth, Tala carefully washed the areas around her Papa's eyes. She applied the medicine around his eyes and helped him with eye drops. Tala re-wrapped the bandages.
"Better?" she asked.
"Yes, that sweet heart", said Neji.
"I worried that something truly horrible happened to you and Dad", said Tala.
"We're fine, Sunshine. Our employers were pieces of shit", said Kiba.
"Oh", said Tala.
She noticed blood dripping down her dad's nose.
"Dad, you're bleeding", said Tala.
He wiped his nose on his sleeve.
"Damn that pepper gas. I still can't smell a damn thing", said Kiba.
"You should regain your sense of smell in a week", said Tala.
"A week!" groaned Kiba.
"Yes, and there's no way to shorten it. You'll have running or bloody nose for the time", said Tala.
Tala got up from her seat and hugged her father tightly. Tears streamed down her face. She nuzzled closely to his chest. His arm wrapped her.
"I was so worried", said Tala.
"We're okay, Sunshine", said Kiba.
A few moments later Lycan came crashing through the front door.
"YOU'RE HOME!" he yelled.
The force of his hug sent both Tala and Kiba to the floor. Akamaru was swiftly brought down by his two sons. They licked his muzzle. Shine joined in the tackle.
"Papa, what happened to your eyes?!" asked Lycan.
"Don't worry Lycan it's only temporary blindness. I'll be back to my previous visual prowess before you know it", said Neji.
"Promise?" he asked.
"Yes", said Neji.
He gently kissed his son on the cheek. The weekend went smoothly. Monday came and Tala went to meet her sensei. They went to the assignment room. Tala sighed when the Hokage gave them yet another d-ranked mission.
"Is something the matter, Tala?" he asked.
"My apologies Hokage. I'm sure my student meant no disrespect", said Hanabi.
Tala realized her mistake.
"Please forgive me. I didn't mean disrespect. I will happily take any mission you'll give without complaint", said Tala.
Naruto took the genin's squad folder from a drawer in his desk. In the few months of their service, they'd completed the majority of the d-ranked missions completed by the genin.
"I bet you want a chance to prove yourself on a more difficult mission", said Naruto.
"That would be a nice change of pace", said Faith.
"It would be a great opportunity to prove our youthful powerful", said Metal.
Hanabi smirked it was amazing how confident Metal could be if with Faith and Tala by his side. When he was without them he would grow anxious and fear how other would judge him.
"I have a C-ranked mission which may be of interest to you. Are you and your team willing to accept it, Hanabi?" asked Naruto.
"Yes, Lord Hokage thank you for the opportunity", said Hanabi.
"You'll meet the client here at eight tomorrow morning. You'll be guarding him in his travels to the Hidden Grass Village", said Naruto.
"What do you say team?" said Hanabi.
"Thank you", said the three genins.
Boruto has seen the whole thing. He'd asked his father for a higher ranked mission days ago and he'd refused to give them a C-ranked mission. When Tala walked out of the Hokage's office and her cousin. She stuck her tongue out him. Sarada had to stop Boruto from attacking Tala, not that she couldn't handle herself. Boruto charged into his dad's office.
"What the hell?!" growled Boruto.
"What is it?" asked Naruto sparing a glance at his son.
"What was that? Why did you give her team that mission? My squad is better than hers", said Boruto.
"Tala and her squad of have never refused or complained about an assignment. They've always been grateful and have never shirked their work. You could learn from your cousin", said Naruto.
"Why do you always take her side!" yelled Boruto.
"Then earn me taking your side", said Naruto.
Boruto left no longer wanting to be his father's presence. Sarada knew Boruto needed his space. She caught up with Tala and her team.
"Tala", called Sarada.
"Yeah", she said.
Her team waited for her.
"Go on I'll catch up", said Tala.
"Don't take too long or I'll assign extra training to your regiment", said Hanabi.
"Yes, Sensei", said Tala with a nod of her head.
Tala focused her attention on Sarada.
"So what do you need to speak of so urgently?" asked Tala.
"You have to take great care in dealing with Boruto. He will strike out if you're not careful", said Sarada.
"I'm more than capable of dealing with my cousin. I know you aren't one to doubt my abilities are you?" said Tala.
"I only wanted to warn you Tala. You're one of dearest friends", said Sarada.
"I'm grateful for your concern, but like I said before I'm capable of defending myself", said Tala.
"We should hang out sometime soon", said Sarada.
"We should. It's been awhile since our last sparring match. I'm eager to see how you've improved in this time. Maybe you'll actually be able beat me this time around", said Tala.
"Maybe I will", said Sarada.
Tala rushed of with Shiromaru to catch up with her team. She had to stay behind. Her punishment. Heavy weights were locked on her ankles and wrists. Hanabi locked weights around Shiromaru's legs as well. She was hardly able to move.
"You do one lap around the village with these weights. Once you've completed the task the weights will unlock. Was this worth whatever Sarada had to say?" asked Hanabi.
Tala nodded.
"Enjoy your training you two", said Hanabi.
"Going back to the Hyuga compound Sensei?" asked Tala.
"Yes, I must prepare dinner for mother and father", said Hanabi.
"Tell great uncle I say hi", said Tala.
"I will", said Hanabi.
She channeled her chakra to her limbs. Tala went running on all fours. Shiromaru followed behind. The weights slowed her immensely. The process that normally took only minutes took an hour. The weights dropped from her limbs. She needed an ice bath. Tala limped toward home. She noticed Shiromaru was panting heavier than normal from such an exercise.
"You okay, boy", asked Tala.
"Fine", said Shiromaru.
He would worry his master by saying otherwise.
Tala flopped onto the couch. She grunted when Shiromaru jumped on her stomach.
"You know your Papa doesn't like dirty shoes on the new couch", said Kiba.
Tala rolled her eyes and toed off her shoes.
"You okay, Sunshine?" asked Kiba.
"Sore", she said.
"Want me to put ice in the tub?" asked Kiba.
"Please", she said.
"No problem", said Kib.
"Thank you", said Tala.
A few minutes later Kiba nudged his daughter awake. She groaned as she forced herself to her feet. Tala went into her bathroom. She stripped her clothes and carefully eased herself into the frigid water. Tala leaned over and placed Shiromaru in the tub with her. He whined.
"I don't believe what Sarada was worth that training", said Shiromaru.
He tried scrambling out of the tub.
"Nope, we still have seven more minutes", said Tala as she forced Shiromaru into the water.
"It's cold", he whined.
"That's the point of an ice bath", said Tala.
After a few more minutes they got out of the bath. Shiromaru shook himself dry, sending water everywhere. Tala wrapped a towel around herself then towel dried Shiromaru. Tala changed into her comfy clothes and brushed out her long dark brown hair. Shiromaru laid on her bed. Tala wrapped him up in a cozy blanket and walked into the living room. Her papa sat on the couch. He seemed bored just staring blankly in front of him. Tala took a seat next to him.
"Can I watch TV in here?" she asked.
He nodded.
"Bored?" asked Tala.
"Yes", said Neji.
Tala leaned against her papa. He wrapped his arm around her. She gave a peaceful sigh as he ran he fingers through her hair.
"I heard you packing a bag. Were you assigned a mission?" asked Neji.
"You heard that?" asked Tala.
"My other senses have sharpened, since the momentary loss of my vision", said Neji.
Tala smiled.
"Yes, we were assigned our first C-ranked mission", she said proudly.
"Good for you!" said Kiba.
"Is that so? Where will you be going?" asked Neji.
"The Hidden Grass Village", said Tala.
Her parents tensed.
"What is it?" asked Tala.
Kiba and Neji were both beyond grateful when Tala didn't hold any memory of her time in the Hidden Grass Village. Tala was so young at that time. She barely remembered her time in the hospital.
"The Hidden Grass is our ally why should I fear it?" asked Tala.
Neji took a breath.
"We're just worried this will be your first time outside of the Land of Fire. Promise us you'll be careful", he said.
"I will be", said Tala.
"Promise", said Neji.
"I promise, Papa", said Tala.
"And don't wander from the group", said Kiba.
"I won't", she said.
She didn't understand why her parents were being so overly protective. It wasn't like she was going anywhere extremely dangerous. It was a simple mission. There was little chance of ninja combat. Her parents were nervous the rest of the day. The day came to an end. Neji heard Kiba putting on his shoes.
"Where are you going?" he asked.
"To talk to our Hokage", said Kiba.
"He's already given his demands. It's our place as ninjas to follow it. No matter how much we dislike it. We've had this conversation before", said Neji.
"I don't care this time he's taken it too far!" growled Kiba.
The front door slammed closed. Neji put his head in his hands.
"Shit", he groaned.
If he weren't blind he would have followed Kiba. He sighed. Hell, even if he had his sight he wasn't sure if would stop Kiba.
"Papa?"
He turned his head in the direction of Tala's voice.
"Did we wake you?" asked Neji.
"Yes", she said.
"Sorry Tala, go back to bed", said Neji.
"Were you fighting with Dad?" she asked.
"No, we were only having a heated conversation", said Neji.
Tala rolled her eyes.
"Goodnight", said Neji.
"Night Papa", she said.
Kiba saw the light on in the Hokage's office. He was still there at this hour. Shit, he was glad never to take the job. His family life was far too important. He greatly enjoyed being able to come home to them almost every day when he wasn't on a mission. He knocked on the door Naruto's office.
"Come in", he said.
Kiba let himself in.
"I was expecting your visit", said Naruto.
"You're putting my daughter life at risk", said Kiba.
"I carry the weight of many lives besides your daughter, Kiba", said Naruto.
"Yes, but if the hunters were to catch her. It could mean the end of the Leaf or worse", said Kiba.
"You should have more faith in Tala's abilities. Even at genin status, she has the abilities of a jonin", said Naruto.
Kiba sighed.
"I only hope you're right, but she's still my little girl", he said.
Kiba needed a drink. He took his leave and went to the nearest bar. It took him by surprise when he saw Shikamaru sitting at the counter.
"Can I join you?" asked Kiba.
Shikamaru nodded.
"A beer and refill whatever he's having", said Kiba.
"Thanks", said Shikamaru with a raise of his glass.
The bartender placed a tall cool glass of beer in front him.
"So what brings you here, Shikamaru", he asked.
"Temari got pissed at me destroyed all the bottle of sake in the house. And you?" asked Shikamaru.
"My daughter was given a mission to the Hidden Grass", said Kiba.
"You're worried about the hunters", said Shikamaru.
He nodded.
"I don't know how Neji can be so accepting of this", said Kiba.
"Because he understands the importance of the word of the Hokage", said Shikamaru.
Kiba groaned he didn't want to hear that.
"The hunters have been in disbanded in the Hidden Grass village. I'm not saying there isn't any risk, but I don't believe they will try and take Tala. We both know every time a child goes on a mission there's danger. Like our parents we have to accept that", said Shikamaru.
Kiba got to his feet.
"See ya", he said.
Shikamaru waved goodbye. Kiba went home. He found Neji sitting on their bed. His mate waited for him. He nuzzled against the beauty's neck.
"Kiba", he said.
Neji returned the nuzzle.
"I love you", said Kiba.
"I smell the beer on your breath", said Neji.
The next morning Tala left her house for the Hokage's office. Her team was already there. An old stood by the Hokage. He was hunched. The man's long beard nearly touched the ground. Moss seemed to be growing in his facial hair. He smelled of earth and rotting leaves.
"This is Daiki. You'll be taking him to the Hidden Grass", said Naruto.
"You expect me to trust these you whippersnappers with my life. Do you think I'm senile or something", said Daiki.
"I assure you my students and I are capable of protecting you", said Hanabi.
Daiki focused on the child with eyes. His eyes went wide. Such regal presence the girl had. He could smell her power. It wasn't ancient and mystical. He only felt such mystical power at few mystical sight. His eyes widen.
"My queen", he said.
The old man went to his knees.
"Please forgive my rudeness. If I knew you were the holder of the Queen of the Wild I would have shown you the utmost kindness", said Daiki.
"How- How do you know?" asked Tala.
Not even her teammate knew what was within her. She wanted to be known for her strength, not the power trapped inside her.
"I'm a healer of the trees. In repayment, they tell me the rumors of the forest. I didn't believe them when they told a new vessel was born", said Daiki.
"I'm not same damn vessel. I'm own person!" snarled Tala.
Daiki smirked. She'd be the perfect match for the king of beasts.
