Voice of the Wanderer 2: Eighteenth Wish

Naruto Fanfiction

Disclaimer: I don't own a single shred of Naruto

Chapter 4: His Plan, My Thoughts

Whoa, I didn't think I'd be writing again... at least not so soon. I put this story on hiatus since the last update, for personal reasons. But after tons of emails from reviewers, telling me to continue it (over the past year), I figured, why the hell not?

Problem is, my writing isn't what it used to be. I wrote this chapter, a long time ago, near the time of my decision to put this story on a hold. I know I had a reason for not posting it, but I can't remember anymore. I'll try to finish this to the best of my current ability, however.

And no, as a response to some of you guys who have emailed me about this, I will not be handing this story to another writer. He or she can probably do a better job than I ever could, update more frequently, for starters, but it's just not going to happen. I'm selfish like that.

I still have my notes for this story jotted down. I figured I'd be too lazy to write at some point, so I recorded the plot line on a separate document.

Frankly, this is chapter isn't all that important right now - but it does see some use in the future. If you don't read this, I can understand; you won't be missing much. It's the next chapter that gets pretty heated up.

That's all I wanted to say, I think.

Formal ballroom dancing practice ended at an agreed hour of 7pm, allowing for the rest of the court to return home. As per unanimous vote, every participant would arrive at Ino's house at 11am every Sunday to allow an ample amount of time for practice. After lunch, we immediately resumed practice until the hour arrived in which the court would depart. I was the last to remain, opting to clean some mess. It was an interesting experience, for the most part, but I regret to say that my mind wasn't at all where it should have been.

I couldn't stop thinking about Madara's offer; the chance to return to the good old days. Those were the days I knew, the time when my ninja title had the most meaning. I was born into a war-torn world but I didn't die in it as I wish I could have. Unfortunately, to return to that era would mean the disappearance of this one. According to the laws of time, as mentioned in Atlantean texts, time flows in one direction. If the past is changed even at the slightest margin, the present and future may be heavily affected.

As much as I want to see all of my friends again, the ones I grew up with, can I really sacrifice the ones I have here? Meeting them all in one location must have been nothing short of a twist of fate. What are the chances I'd be reunited with them under the rooftops of a school that got its name from the village I grew up in? For crying out loud, their principal is Tsunade, the Hokage of Konoha. We even have our jounin senseis teaching, and each of them are in classes my friends and I take.

In all my years of living, I've learned not to question fate but the long strings of coincidences I've had here is just incredible. Everyone is the same as I remember, even down to the last speck of detail. Sakura is still Tsunade's medical apprentice, Shizune once learned under Tsunade, old man Sarutobi was the previous principal, Kakashi still reads his pornography and still has a sort of mask covering the lower half of his face, and Sai is as creepy as ever.

Everything is still pretty much the same. If I leave this age, returning to the one I'm more familiar with, not much will have really changed. I'd be living through my life a second time, knowing what to expect, but everything would be the same.

When a man reads a book for the first time, he won't know what to expect. Every chapter within the book will drag a certain level of mystery that may or may not appease the reader. If he reads the book a second time, it's not so exciting because he'll already know what to expect. Would that be the same if I travel back in time? I would know how things go, how to react to surprising events, and how to change the present if I wanted to. An unbelievable amount of power would be bestowed upon me... but with my time as Kyuubi's jailor...

Do I really want such a power?

Power can corrupt anyone, even those with the purest of hearts and intentions. It probably didn't have any effect on me, at the time, because I was too damn stupid to allow it to. With centuries of wisdom in my aged-old brain, I'm obviously not as retarded as I used to be. The desire to change whatever it is I please will be there. It s not just Madara's lacking presence changing history but also my desire to change what is destined to happen.

I scoffed at the thought.

"Tch, look at me. I sound like Neji before I whipped his ass at the chunin exam," I muttered to myself while washing some dishes. Neji, back then, accepted his fate and played his part according to what he thought his role was. I'm the one who made him change his ways... so why am I the one falling into that same abyss?

"Hey, what's on your mind?" Ino cooed, her arms slithering around my waist with her cheek pressed against my back. Yet another thing I don't want to let go of. I've got something good going here.

"Uh, nothing. I was just thinking about this old internet article I read up some time ago," I said to her. "If you could go back in time to change anything, knowing whatever you change would massively affect the present and the future, would you?"

"That's easy; I wouldn't," she said. "If I can go back in time, I would simply watch the events fly. If I changed anything and it negatively affects, for example, my relationship with you, I could never forgive myself. I don't ever want to be without you. It would tear me apart."

"H-Hey, getting all emotional are we?"

"Well, I just wanted to give you my most honest answer. Anything you say, ask, or confide in me, I will take it seriously," she admitted. "Anyway, you didn't have to stay behind and help me clean. We have school tomorrow and you need to get up early."

Some things just never change...

"And what kind of boyfriend would I be if I let you clean up, after everyone, on your own?" I asked, turning the faucet off and swerved to face her. Ino wrapped her arms around my neck.

"You would be a realistic one. Men hate kitchen chores," she said with a smile. "But nothing is realistic about you, is there? You're like the prince charming that girls like me only see in our dreams. You're strong and independent, so handsome, so incredibly talented, but you don't flaunt any of it. Do you know how many girls would kill for your private attention?"

"You're about the same for us guys," I grinned slightly, my hands on her waist.

"Oh shut up, you know I'm not," she said. "There are a million girls like me and you know it. I'm well-known in school, get good grades, have good relations with my teachers and friends, but so is any other girl. I'm really nothing special."

"Or so you think," I said, our lips nearing. "Ino-chan, I'm going to kiss you. I don't care if your mother walks in on us."

"Don't worry. She and Shizune-obasan went out. Dad's asleep..." her smile widened a little. "Come here, Naruto-kun."

With that, our lips connected. This is a plus one for refusing Madara's offer. There's just no way I can let go of this girl. If I do, I'd be denying what my heart truly wants; a chance to finally live in peace. I've been fighting for too long, living for even longer. Ino and the friends I have here is the redemption I've ached for. Besides, the old gang is up there watching me. They'd be disappointed if I were to change anything in the past. Everything happened for a reason, be it good or bad.

As much as I want to see everyone again, reliving the time I love, I can't sacrifice the happiness I have here with the people I've come to like, and the girl I've come to love. A minute later, our lips parted. I was about to see if anyone was watching us but Ino caught my face almost immediately.

"Don't look anywhere else right now," she said romantically, capturing my attention instantly. "We don't often get time alone, like this. There's no one else here right now, so let s enjoy this."

"What, my buddy down there didn't satisfy you earlier?" I asked jokingly. Her head tilted slightly for a second.

"That was then, and this is now. You're just so addicting, you know? It's really hard to control myself around you sometimes," she said.

"I can understand that."

"Oh shut up," she said, her soft breasts against my chest. That thought in mind, my buddy jumped to life. This girl really knows how to give me a run for my money. I found my eyes trailing to where our chests touched. Ino rolled her eyes. "Gosh, you're such a pervert. Do you really like them that much?"

"I like everything about you," I said smoothly, playfully poking her supple left breast.

Ino reflexively grabbed my finger and tossed my hand to the side. She snickered at my antics, as did I in the inside. I can't believe how childish I was just now, but it's okay every once in a while. I lowered my lips to kiss her equally supple right breast. Though there was a shirt over it, I could almost swear my lips touched her skin. Ino held my head up and snickered.

"Stop it, you weirdo, it tickles," she said with a giggle following. "But when we're alone, I like it when you do things like this."

"Would it be less weird if I took your shirt off?" Uh oh, my hormones are acting up. Then again, how can it not when I m faced with such a pretty girlfriend? "You got to satisfy me earlier and I just want to return the favor."

"It would be much less weird, yes, but not tonight," she said breathlessly. "I'm tired from all the dancing and drilling. I just want to go to bed."

"I have full intention of returning the favor in bed unless you d like me to do it here in the kitchen, I have no problem with that," I said seductively, kissing her neck, which earned me a playful slap on the arm.

"Oh you," she said playfully. "Not tonight."

"Fine..." I sighed heavily. "Tomorrow night?"

"Maybe," she said, turning away but still smiling. "You better go home before you get tired of me."

"That's not gonna happen."

"The former or the latter?"

"The latter. I would really appreciate it if the former wouldn't happen either," I said, trying to sly-talk my way into staying with her for a bit longer. Before I knew it, we were both at the doorstep. Ino opened the door.

"Good night, Naruto-kun," she smiled softly.

"Aww... but I didn't even finish the dishes."

"I'll take care of it. You've done too much already."

"I think I can do a bit mo-"

"Good night," she said firmly as she closed the door. I smiled at that, dug my hands in my pockets, and headed home. I'd use the Hiraishin no Jutsu instead but I can use the extra bit of time to do some thinking. I can't just shut out Madara's offer. If I could leave the life I've wanted in the past, a childhood without people thinking I'm the scum of the Earth, I would have been a much happier person. I can't deny that my experience as a kid scarred me for life.

I turned at a corner, remembering a bus stop here once upon a time. The moment I turned, a familiar face greeted me. The taller man stood near a bus station, waiting for a ride as well. Madara isn't around. I guess the two parted ways. I stood next to him.

"So how's it like, seeing a member of the old gang again?"

"You mean Deidara? I dunno. I never liked the noisy fag," said the silver-haired preacher. "He's just as much a little bitch here as he is in the past. To think he settled down with that medical cunt, what are the chances?"

"Whoa, that's some mouth you've got," I replied, though not really surprised. Hidan's records say he s got a knack for cursing. Hidan raised a brow at me, then looked up ahead.

"I swore not to curse around that Uchiha-fucker," he chuckled a bit. "Now that he ain't here, I don't give a shit about word-use."

The sleek-haired immortal rested his hands on his hips and stuck his chest out to the world, taking in a heavy breath.

"I haven t cursed like that in a fucking long time. It feels pretty damn good," he said, pleased with his actions. He then looked to me once more, a smile plastered on his face, as a bus arrived at our stop. It's not the right one for me but as Hidan approached it, I figure it's the one he was waiting for. He took a step inside as the door opened and grabbed onto the rail inside. "So then, made that choice yet?"

"Like hell. It's not a light decision to make," I looked away.

"Whatever you say, kid," he laughed. "There are lots of reasons that might push you to refuse Madara's offer, but try to look at it from his perspective. Eternal life and the only thing the poor fuck can think of is an entire race of idiots falling to ruin. Pathetic, really, but to be responsible for that kind of genocide can drive anyone to the edge... well, except that German-pig Hitler."

I sighed at the memory of said tyrant. I only wish I were the one to personally do him in. He was a prick, in every sense of the word, but his influence was absolute.

"Right... What should I do?" Hidan shrugged his shoulders.

"Dunno. You re old enough to think for yourself. Just don't go regretting anything," he said as the door of the bus closed in front of him.

With Hidan out of the picture, I stood alone for another half hour before deciding to cut the trip home by walking instead of waiting for a bus that apparently isn't coming. I know this bus route and chose to follow said route in case the bus would pass by. If it does, a little change of pace wouldn't hurt. My hands dug into my pockets as I continued my trek home. As soon they got in there, my hand was met with a vibrating cell phone.

"Hello?"

"Uzumaki, the guys and I are getting together for a movie. Wanna come with?" asked the resident dog-man. I was hoping to continue pondering about the time-traveling machine but it's really been the only thing in my mind since Madara spoke about it. I need a little break. Maybe this would do me some good.

"Sure. Which theater?"

"The one by 8th and 4th street," he said. "Bring your own money, dude."

With that, he hung up. If I continue walking, there's no way I'd make it to the designated location until tomorrow. Eighth street is a few miles away. I formed a hand seal and used the Hiraishin no Jutsu to flash back home. I took off my sweater and pulled out a black, leather jacket from my closet and left home with my motorcycle.

As soon as a red light stopped me, my mind wandered back to what Madara said about the Kyuubi's spirit being reincarnated into human flesh. That's a definite possibility as I've actually met with the other tailed beasts; their reincarnations. I left them in the U.S, once upon a time. Quite a rambunctious group they turned out to be, but good people nonetheless. I wonder if I'll be seeing them again anytime soon.

Suddenly, I shivered at the thought.

I know, for sure, that the Kyuubi wasn't reincarnated back into me. I would have felt a surge of power from something like that. I also know for sure that Shukaku isn't in Gaara. Along with the extra juice, having a biju inside someone also forces a personality change in that person. The change, of course, depends on the beast inside the jinchuriki.

In this era, Gaara sleeps. He still has dark rings around his eyes but it's due to a special make-up he puts on. In fact, the Gaara of today loves to sleep; he's probably making up for lost time.

Arriving at the 8th street theater, Neji and Lee were already there. I left my motorbike in the parking lot and approached the long-time friends.

"Naruto-kun, how great of you to join this youthful bonding of men!" he exclaimed. Lee will always be Lee. Neji's eyes rolled and turned away, unable to take his friend seriously when he acts this way.

"Uzumaki, do you have any idea why mutt-boy wants to do this?" asked the frustrated Hyuuga. I shrugged my shoulders. "Well, Nara can't make it. Or rather, isn't coming. Maybe he had the right idea. This is a waste of my time."

"Hey come on," I said, slinging an arm around his shoulder. "What's wrong with a little guy night?"

His cold, white eyes peered into mine.

"He and Tenten were ready to deflower!" Lee said a little louder than intended. Neji reeled his fist back and slugged the hyperactive teen in the gut.

Lee fell to his knees, gasping for breath. I probably might have done same. Though, I honestly hoped Lee would have blocked or dodged that sudden strike. Oh well, old expectations die hard. I was so hooked onto our conversation when a raven-haired woman bumped into me, causing me to fall to the ground. However, before hitting the ground, a familiar sensation coursed through my skin.

She wore a blue, business blouse and a black formal jacket over her shoulders. A low, brown skirt covered her legs to her shins, along with a pair of black-heeled shoes on her feet. The man next to her wore a completely casual set, opposite of her more professional attire. One could mistake her for the Feudal Lord's wife with her choice in apparel and overall beauty.

"Hey, you all right?" a voice called ahead of us. The woman on top of me removed herself, allowing me room to get up as well. She rubbed a sore spot on her legs as a spiky rocker-looking man rushed to her aid. "I told you not to run so fast."

"Sorry, but we're going to be late for the movie. It's going to start in couple of minutes," she said as she turned to me and bowed. One good look on her face, and the man beside her, was all that was required to cause my jaw to fall off its hinges. "I'm very sorry, kid. I should have been more careful. You aren't hurt, are you?"

I shook my head wordlessly. The woman turned to her companion and rummaged through her purse and pulled out a pair of movie tickets, giving one to the smiling man. She turned to me and apologized once more.

"H-Haku..." I muttered thoughtlessly. The two looked at each other, then at me.

It's just like me to assume Haku to be a female. He definitely looked the part. His companion wasn't so unfamiliar either. His tanned skin and shark-like teeth aren't something one can easily forget once it's etched into the brains. He did, after all, almost defeat Kakashi-sensei and kill the old bridge builder during my first C-rank, mission

Technically, it should have been at least a B-rank but who really cares nowadays?

The transvestite tilted his head in confusion.

"I'm sorry, have we met before? How do you know my name?" he asked, puzzled.

It was then I realized I had just uttered the name of one of the most beautiful transvestites I've ever seen, without knowing. Like all the others, he must have been reborn into this era, along with that formerly creepy bloody-mist shinobi. It's nice to see them together. They both look to be the same age as when I saw them, all those years ago, maybe a little older. I took another second to make up an excuse. I shouldn't be holding them up like this.

"I'm... uh... you... we were classmates in middle school. You probably wouldn't remember me," I said, my words fumbling. Haku looked to the sky, his voice humming a low sound as he placed a hand on his chin. I wonder what he s thinking. The young man returned his glance to me a few seconds later.

"You're right, I don't remember. It's been a long time, but why don't we catch up some time?" he asked, pulling out a piece of paper and scribbled a phone number on it before handing it to me.

I scanned through the numbers that I would probably be contacting in the near future. It s nice to know these two aren t after my hide this time. I suppose we had nothing against each other in the shinobi era, but I'm glad we haven't met as enemies this time. As the couple turned to leave, Kiba's voice called to me. He had already met up with Lee, Neji, and Gaara was beside him.

"Hoy, let's go! The movie is starting soon!" he said. Before I could answer him, I noticed Haku's attention was focused at the dog-man. He looked to me again, a playful smile on his face.

"My, my, what a loud friend you have," he said. I nodded. "I m sorry to be keeping you. It looks like you also have a movie to get to. You should get going or your friends will leave you."

I politely shook my head.

"It s okay; I m sure someone will save me a seat. It s really not a problem," I said to him.

Since the movie isn't starting yet, maybe I can get some small talk out of the way. This is the first time I've seen Haku since our little square-dance as enemies. I guess not every person I've encountered in the past resides within arms reach.

"So how are you these past few years? How's the family?"

"We re doing just fine, thank you for asking," he said, his eyes looking to my hair. "You know, it s not just your hair but your face and personality that have me puzzled. I feel like we've met somewhere before, even beyond middle school. I'm sorry if I'm pushing my seat too far with this."

I could only shrug. Haku's partner cleared his throat somewhat loudly.

"As cute as this little get-together is, the movie will be starting soon," said Zabuza at least I hope his name hasn't changed. "You know what, I'll go and save us some seats. Why don't you get us some popcorn at the concession stand?"

He pecked Haku's lips before storming into the theater. It might take some time for this whole gay-relationship thing to sink into me but they did have that little thing going for them, at least I believe so. Zabuza was heartless back then, but he did truly care for Haku. They deserve this happy ending.

"He seems like a nice guy," I said to him, holding back some tears I know will be coming down soon. The two of us got in line to purchase some snacks for the movie. Kiba and the others had already left without me. Gaara sent a text saying he'd hold a seat for me. Haku brandished his cell phone, speed-dialed someone, and held the piece of machinery to his ear.

"Hey, mom, you wouldn't believe it but I met some guy from middle school. What are the chances, right?" he said. Oh great. He's already talking to his mother about me. I wonder what she s like, Haku's grandmother. It would be nice to get to know her too, since we weren't given the opportunity last time. "Yeah, I just met him on my way to the theater with Zabuza. I don't know, he looks like he's in high school. Uh-huh. Oh... really? Okay, thanks mom, good night."

I gulped as he pocketed his mobile phone. A grim look replaced his features.

"I suppose I should tell you that I was involved in a car accident a few years ago and was diagnosed with amnesia," he said glumly. Crud didn't think that on through. Haku parked his hands on his hips. "Mom reminded me that I was home-schooled throughout my years as a middle-schooler. You must have had a good reason to lie to someone you have never met, which I don't care about. All I want to know is who you are and how you know my name."

"I see," I said, making sense of her words. My words fumbled in my head. This isn't the way I hoped things would go. All I wanted was a peaceful conversation with an old friend, but no Kami had to twist tonight against me.

"And I think we can both agree that I m passed the point in accepting the you-look-like-someone-I-know excuse," he reprimanded. In a way, this feels soothing in a non-masochist way of speaking. It just feels nice that we re having the buddy-buddy chat that we were deprived of because we were enemies once upon a time.

"I don't mean to lecture someone I've just met but I really hope you aren't one of those people who take advantage of people like me. I know I'm a bit of a klutz sometimes but I don t like being taken advantage of."

"Sorry, I didn't mean for things to turn this way. I just thought I could have a simple conversation with someone outside of my friend zone. You know how high school friends are," I said, getting up. "I should go. My friend is holding me a seat. I apologize if I alarmed you or anything. It wasn't my intention."

"I... all right," he said as I returned him the piece of paper he gave me, the one with his phone number.

"There. I don't want you to be nervous knowing someone you don't know has your phone number. I hope we meet again on better circumstances," I said to him, about to turn away when he called for my attention.

"Wait, what's your name?" he asked. I paused at that. Come to think of it, I haven't revealed my name to him just yet. I mentally smacked myself over the head. How could I have forgotten my manners like that? Here I am with the knowledge of his name, he knows it, and I didn't once tell him mine. I turned my head to his with a smile.

"If we ever meet again, I'll tell you," I said, leaving him at that. I'm satisfied I was given the chance to speak with Haku. Though it wasn't prolonged and didn't go as pleasantly as I had hoped, it was still nice. I guess I'll have to apologize to Kami later.

As soon as I walked into the darkened room where the movie was being held, I immediately spotted a head of spiky red hair. If that wasn't enough of an indication, there was Lee's childish arm-waving and glistening white smile. I sat next to Gaara, who was unfortunately next to Kiba.

"Hey, what was that about?" he asked. Here we go. "I saw you getting all touchy with that hot chick earlier. You re not throwing the moves on her behind Yamanaka's back, are you?" And so it was brought.

"Shut up, the movie is starting," Neji scoffed. I smirked at that and kept my composure. I hope to see him again, as well as Zabuza, but I doubt that will be anytime soon. Tonight was a simple coincidence, nothing more.

(Next day)

To go back in time I can't believe I'm still thinking about it. The answer should be no, I have reasons that would be placed on that side of the scale, but clearly the desire to relive my life in my own time still exists. I keep telling myself that my mind is already made up, that I shouldn't even be considering it anymore; but I can't stop processing Madara's words in my head. His offer isn't really something I can just swat to the side and never think about. I told him I'd give it a serious thought and if I just toss it after a few reasons that would get me to stay, I can't tell him I gave an honest effort.

My eyes tore away from Kakashi-sensei's rambling; it was boring anyway, something about Japanese poetry. I like the idea of poetry, but it was never my thing. As soon as the bell rang, ending the current class, the silver-haired-Cyclops sighed and closed his class text book before walking out of the room with a yawn. Finally, it s lunch time. At last, I can focus on getting these thoughts out of my head. My decision is to stay in this time. I may not belong here, but I'm definitely going to die here. Besides, I like what I have. My friends from high up told me to be happy where I am.

I don't want to disappoint them.

If I go back in time, would it tear their souls from the afterlife and drag them back down here? Is that how the soul thing works? If so, I don't want that for them. They deserve to rest in peace.

I made it to my locker without much of Madara's words surging in and out of my head. When I arrived, I noticed my locker was already open and someone was using it. As soon as I noticed a trail of blond hair, my nerves were immediately calmed. I forgot I decided to share my locker with her after she gave hers to someone else. Allowing her usage of my locker means I have no secret to keep, yet I'm keeping this time-traveling nonsense from her. She deserves to know.

I bumped my butt against Ino's hip, effectively moving her to the side.

"Ow! You know, an excuse me would have sufficed," she huffed, rubbing the semi-sore spot. There were no books on her arms, just a white plastic bag. "I made a bento for you so we can have lunch together. Shizune-obasan gave me one of her old recipe books and I spent hours trying to make a dish. I really want you to try it."

"Are you sure?" I asked, tucking my books inside the locker. With her stuff inside to occupy space, I have to make full use of the locker s 12x24 inch size. "I was just going to buy something from the cafeteria.

"Forget that," she said with a temper. "Cafeteria food concentrates on flavor without giving a care for the excess calories. There is no way I m letting any of that bad stuff into your system; I don t care if you have fat-burning chakra. From now on, I ll make lunch for you too."

I looked to her, finishing my business with my locker.

There she goes again with that fat-burning chakra nonsense. I m starting to wonder if there's such a thing. I mean, the Akimichi clan, namely Choji, was capable of producing it with the use of a special pill. If I can find or at least rediscover that recipe, I may just be able to reproduce its effects. A fat-burning recipe could be worth millions to the right person or company. Come to think of it, obesity is a growing problem in certain countries, namely the United States. Maybe they'd like a dash of the stuff?

"All right, I'll try it out. No need to make a fuss," I said as she latched onto my arm with a smile.

As we walked out of the building, just a few more paces to the exit, we were stopped when a very beautiful person, with long black hair, strode passed us. Wearing the male uniform, I figured him to be a man. He also lacks breasts, another clear giveaway. But his fair skin and curvy body threw me for a loop. Our eyes connected for a moment.

"H-Hey, it s you again," he said, raising a finger to point at me, smiling. Ino looked to him, then to me. "You're a student here? Who would've thought? I've been very sick for a while, so I've been at home a lot. I've just been cleared to return to school."

I could only nod. With all the coincidences of my past peers appearing as students of the same high school, getting used to it all was mandatory. He placed his hands on his hips.

"Hold on, you told me you'd give me your name if we ever met again," he said, forcing my hand. He looked to Ino with a smile. His eyes trailed to Ino s arms, which were still holding onto mine. "Ah, you're his girlfriend aren't you? My name is Haku.

"Why do I not like where this is going?

Ino shook his hand.

"Haku-san? I m Yamanaka Ino," she introduced, looking to me. "Naruto-kun, you look fumbled. Are you all ri-" I clasped her mouth shut as I leaned to her ears to mutter a whisper.

"Remind me later. I'll explain everything, I promise," I said softly. Ino nodded slowly, muffling an okay through my hands. Haku's smile turned devious.

Naruto-kun, is it? I suppose that's enough," he said, looking to Ino. "Are you two going to lunch? Perhaps you can join me instead. Your boyfriend and I have some talking to do.

"Y-Yes, sure," said Ino, giving a nervous bow as we followed him to another classroom.

The scent of onigiri, dango, and orange juice made its way to my nostrils. Haku's lunch was on a desk. He pulled up two seats and set them near the desk. I took my seat beside Ino, who was setting up our bento box. There was only one but it was pretty big, enough for two people. She opened the lid as a spread of food was laid out, evenly divided using fried eggs. Ino took one pair of chopsticks. I waited for her to give me a pair, but there was only one.

Her face flushed.

"Is something wrong?" I asked.

"I just remembered I only packed one pair of chopsticks. I was going to feed you, but now that we're in front of someone it s embarrassing. There's no way I can do it," she said.

"It's fine. I can help myself," I said, attempting to grab the chopsticks but she pulled her hand back.

"No, I'll bear with it. I prepared this bento so I'm going to follow through with this," she said as she took a helping of fried fish and rice and placed it in my mouth. Though her method was forceful, I found myself enjoying her cooking. The fish was a bit salty, but tolerable.

"Wow. That's pretty good," I said. Ino smiled wide and continued to feed me. All the while, Haku was watching with glee.

"Good heavens, you two make a wonderful couple," he said. Ino looked to him but my gaze remained on the next helping she was about to give me. "Hum, just now, I imagined Naruto-kun with another girl, someone with shorter, bubble-gum pink hair. I guess it's just my strange fantasies at play."

Oh, that's right! Haku, of the past, remembers me traveling with Sakura. I wonder if those memories carried over to his reincarnated self?

Ino glanced to me.

"Pink hair? Sakura?" She questioned, her arms crossing under her chest. "Is there something I should know?"

"Later. This stuff is great!" I said, complimenting on the bento.

Ino could only sigh. Haku glanced to me.

"So, tell me about yourself Naruto-kun. Our meeting like this, so soon, can t just be a coincidence," he said, moving his chair so he could sit beside me. His brown, leather, desk chair was supported by five legs with wheels under them, allowing for easy movement on the floor. "You know, it s strange to use such a friendly honorific with your name, Naruto-kun, but I rather like it. I feel closer to you already."

I could only return his smile as I opened my mouth for another serving which didn't come. I looked to Ino, who was gripping her chopsticks with more force than necessary for a pair of thin wood. She was shooting me a deathly glare. It was then I remembered that Ino wasn't keen on letting anyone else use the "kun" honorific with my name except her. It was her thing with me, a sign of endearment. To hear someone she had just met using that specific honorific so casually must be getting to her last nerve.

"Haku-san," she called out, sticking the tips of her chopsticks on the rice. Ino stood and walked over to the smirking young man. "Please don't use that honorific with him.

"Hm? It s just a title, so why not?" he asked.

"Now, now, Ino-chan, let's try to calm down," I said, trying to avoid a storm. I don't understand why the kun honorific should only be reserved for her. She'll have a hell of a time if she ever finds out her dear uncle Madara refers to me as "Naruto-kun." Hum, I believe Orochimaru also used that honorific with me. Speaking of whom, I wonder if I'll ever meet the snake bastard in this era.

Haku played into her game.

"Why ever not, I-n-o-chan?" he asked slyly, almost seductively as he enunciated every letter in the name. I heaved a sigh. I knew things weren't going to end well. I should have known the Haku of this era would be at least a little different from the one I knew back then. Although we had only a few minutes to communicate without holding kunai and shuriken at each other's throats, it was long enough for me to know the Haku of the past was much gentler than this.

Ino recomposed herself and took a deep breath, releasing it afterward.

"I'm not going to quarrel with you, but please respect my request and don t use that term," she said. Haku snickered as he returned to his desk.

"Oh lighten up, will you? It's not my fault that your boyfriend is so cute," he said. Ino shivered as he said that and neatly placed the lid back on the bento. She held the chopsticks on the other hand and packed the bento back into the plastic bag before standing up. Ino took my hand and yanked me up. Haku took a bite of his dango.

"Sorry, but we have things to do," she said, dragging me out of the room. As soon as we arrived outside, we immediately spotted the others - seated on a patch of grass under a shady tree. They were engaged in one of Kiba s stories. They made room for us.

"Hoy, where have you guys been?" he asked, looking to me. "More importantly, Uzumaki, that chick from the theater is here as a student. Have you met her yet?"

If only he knew.

"Yeah, we talked earlier. By the way, I know she was hot but she s actually a guy," I said. Kiba's jaw fell, followed by a few giggles from Hinata. "But yeah, he's quite the looker.

Ino shot me a look. I could only smile in innocence.

I meant that as a compliment to him, it s nothing to worry about, I said in a reassuring tone.

Ino looked away as Kiba resumed his story, capturing the others attention.

"I don't have to worry, right?"

"About?"

"You know what."

"You mean Haku-san? What s there to worry about?" Ino sighed, stirring the rice in the bento with her chopsticks.

He's as beautiful as some of the girls in this school and he's really into you. It didn't look like you were against his approaches either and-"

"I'm straight, Ino," I cut in, hopefully making her feel more at ease. "You don't have to worry. However gorgeous he is, my lower horn reacts to long-haired blonds with supple oppai."

Oh god, what am I saying?

"Our principal fits that description, you know. And... did you just say oppai?" she asked, raising a brow with a stern face.

"Okay, granted. Then, I'll correct myself by saying young and non-alcoholic long-haired blonds with supple oppai. And yes, I did say oppai."

"What is it with men and breasts? They're two mounds of useless fat that-" I cut her off by placing both hands on her shoulders. Amazingly, the other males of our group stood behind me.

"Ino-chan," I said, my face against hers. The guys took in a breath, as if ready to join in on what I was about to say. I found it especially odd that Gaara, Shino, and Neji are also in on this. They must be rolling in their graves, right about now.

"Oppai is one of man's truly great treasures. It's a source of life, warmth, and comfort to us. Oppai is not useless. Oppai is glorious, beautiful, and to be honored. Never disrespect the power of oppai," we said in unison. As I lowered my head to face the ground, or Ino's chest, the others bowed humbly as well.

Afterward, they returned to their respective areas. The girls gave them awkward looks. My girlfriend unit could only roll her eyes as I pulled myself away. I guess there's a certain level of perversion that girlfriends are willing to take from their boyfriends.

I placed a hand on her knee.

"Anyway, about Haku, really, don t worry about it. He s just someone I met last night, before watching a movie with the guys. Besides, he s got someone else wrapped around his finger."

"Are you sure about that?" she retorted, following a sigh. "I m sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me. When he got close to you, I just sort of got defensive. It was childish of me."

"Yeah, but I'd probably react the same way if a hunkier guy did that with you," I said, an effort to make her smile again. She looked to me and nodded a few moments later. I returned the smile and retrieved the bento. "Great, now how about we finish that lunch? I'm still starving."

"Right, I completely forgot," she said, serving me more rice with fried eggs and chicken. "So, how about explaining to me what you promised earlier?"

"Oh, that," I muttered. Making sure no one else was listening, I leaned to her ear. "As you know, his name is Haku. He was also the first person to teach me the lesson of companionship, back in the day. Ino clasped her hands to her mouth.

"We were enemies, when we first met. He died right in front of me, protecting his friend," I said, recalling Kakashi's chidori plunged through Haku's chest. "In the end, he and his friend died together. He taught me how valuable friendship was and I'm forever grateful to him for that."

"Oh my god," Ino said softly. Her reaction to the news was priceless. It's like I m living a reality T.V show. "I'm so sorry for getting angry at you.

"It's okay. How about repaying me with a little action tonight?" I scooted closer to her. Ino sighed and shoved another helping of food into my mouth.

"You have a one-track mind, don't you? she asked. "Talking about something like that when around so many people, you have no shame do you?"

"Shorry," I said, my mouth filled with eggs and beef- some of which were spilling out as I spoke. "I jhust can't help myshelf when I m around-joo. You re sho aweshome and sheckshy, it'sh really hard to reshisht."

"How about you swallow first? You're such a pig," she replied, aggravated as she flicked off some rice from her skirt that came from my mouth. I heeded her advice in order to avoid more trouble. "Honestly, five centuries of living and you don't even have table manners?"

"Sorry about that too, bad eating habits and all. You should have met me, when I was your age. You'd have gotten a stroke, for sure," I laughed. A single grain of rice splattered on Ino's cheek. My body reclined in shock as Ino took a napkin and wiped the chewy smudge off of her face.

"Oh Naruto-kun what ever will I do with you?"

"Actually, I should be the one asking you that. I learned a new technique and a new position online. I've been itching to try it," I said with a smirk, which was rewarded with a painful smack to the head. "Ow! What was that for? I think it's only natural for couples to try other positions. I mean, missionary is cool and all but it gets boring after a while."

"Time and place, Naruto-kun," she hissed, a vein popping on her forehead. "Why me?"

"Because I'm just too adorable to resist?"

"Great, he's cocky too," she said, another helping of food entering my mouth. Ino's eyes were closed as she let out a groan. "But I'm still in love. What's wrong with me?"

"I don't blame you. I m pretty irresistible," I said, earning another smack on the head. I returned her offensive action with a smile as I opened my mouth wide for more of her home-cooking.

I hope these peaceful times last forever, though I know that's wishful thinking. Madara is going to find the Kyuubi's reincarnation soon, especially if I don't pick up the pace in finding him or her first. But, the decision on whether or not to agree to help him has been weighing down on my shoulders. I can't think of anything else but that. I have every reason to decline, so why can't I just drop it? Is it because I can't stand to see people in pain, even my former enemies?

When he finds the Kyuubi and executes his plan, will I be able to stop him? No, wrong question. How can I stop someone who's seeking redemption for his sins? I'd be going against everything I was raised to believe in. Someone trying to right the wrongs of his past, who am I to get in the way of that? I guess the god-honest question I should be asking myself is...

Will I want to stop him?

We'd all be back to square one, back when life made more sense than it does now; the simpler times. At the expense of my pleasure, he'll be getting his way. But, thinking about it, his intentions are pure. Although this is Madara Uchiha, I know he doesn't have any ulterior motives. The people here will cease to exist. I'll remember them, when I'm back in my time, but they won't know me.

Pros... I get to relive the glory days with a new flame to the old wick. Problem is, I'll have all my memories - especially the part where I'd have allowed an innocent life to be extinguished so that I can get my second wind. That person's blood will be on my hands for the rest of my life.

Cons... the reincarnations of my friends will have never lived, and the souls of their predecessors will most likely be ripped from heaven to relive their old lives. They won't remember any of it, but I will. That burden will be on me.

Shit. No matter my choice, I'm going to end up regretting something.

Oh, I should mention that this is the last chapter in which I'll be using Japanese honorifics (kun, chan, san, etc.). I guess having it increases the whole feeling of being in Japan, as well as the story taking place there, but it's a bit annoying for me to deal with. I hope this doesn't bother anyone.

When I was writing this story, I don't know, a year ago, I liked the idea of using the honorifics. But now that I reread it, it gets sickening to read those little tidbits. I apologize if anyone is offended by this. But if the writer (me) is no longer comfortable with it, then it's gonna come off.

If you must, just imagine that these characters are using the honorifics. When you're reading, fill in the blanks. If I'm ever going to use little pet-names, they're going to be American ones, such as "baby" or "honey" but I don't see myself doing that any time soon. Again, I'm just not the writer I used to be.

Once more, my apologies.