Hi! *shield face from flying debris* Yes, I know I haven't updated in forever, and I'm truly sorry. But you wouldn't believe how much has happened. Got a boyfriend, got dumped. School's over, vacation soon. Sister did stupid shit, broke up with her daughter's dad, is practically disowned; my mom might be going nuts. Oh, and I talked to my dad for the first time in 9 years and found out I have a two-year-old brother. Named Connor!
Yeah...So, I don't know if those are enough excuses but...Sorry. Really, really sorry. I hope you guys are still with me and enjoy this chapter. Thank you to all those who have story alerted and favorited. Reviews would be nice! Please, no flames. Sorry, for any errors I missed.
Song of the day: Give me a Sign by Breaking Benjamin.
Britt: If you waited any longer to update, I would have kicked your ass into next month.
Me: You're one to talk, you procrastinating bag-o-douche!
Gaara: Bag-o-douche? Really.
Naruto: Come on, Gaara, don't be such a slore!
Gaara: What?
Britt: Dude, don't be a fucknutter.
Gaara: *glares* What the hell? Those aren't even words!
Britt, Me & Naruto: Don't stifle our creativity!
Gaara: *shakes head and groans*
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto. Get it? Got it? Good.
Tell potentates, they live
Acting by others' action,
Not loved unless they give,
Not strong but by affection:
If potentates reply,
Give potentates the lie.
Sir Walter Ralegh, The Lie
Hinata's pov
I remember when I heard the news. It had been two days ago.
We had just arrived home from a mission. It had been a simple C-rank and went fairly well. Kurenai-sensei suggested we go home and rest up after a job well done. My teammates and I decided to meet up in a few hours.
I went home and reported in to my father right away. I told him our mission was successful and he nodded and expressed his approval. Maybe it wasn't as heart warming and joyous as the approval I secretly craved, but I took it anyway.
Taking a shower was my first priority, to wash the dirt and grime away. It felt good to cleanse away my worries with the lavender scented soap. While scrubbing through my dark locks, I briefly contemplated growing my hair out. It suited my sister well enough.
However, I was a bit scared to do such a thing. I would never admit it to anyone though. My mother had beautiful long hair, same color as mine. My father told me once that I could almost be her reincarnation. He sounded so distant when he said it too...
If I did grow my hair out I'm afraid that every time I look in the mirror I'll see my mother and be reminded of that day. See, that's just more of my cowardice exposed.
Truth is, I didn't want to be afraid. I didn't want to be scared of things like growing my hair out, disobeying my father, or trying new things. I wanted to be brave, bold, and determined. I knew those things were somewhere deep within me. I knew because he was the one who brought them out.
Back to the point, I soon emerged from my father and got dressed. After having a small meal with Hanabi and a brief conversation with Neji, I was headed out the door. I didn't have to meet Shino and Kiba for bout another hour. So, I was going to train.
Train harder. Get stronger. I chanted it over and over in my head, as I pounded away at the tree. I had to make myself stronger and gain the confidence I so dearly wanted. And it wouldn't just come to me; I had to work hard for it. Like he had to.
I couldn't help but stare proudly at the dents I had put in tree. I wrapped my hands in a light bandage so they could heal from the overexherstion. I figured it was time to meet up with Kiba and Shino.
It wasn't a long walk to our favorite spot. Ichiraku's - just as Naruto had said - did have the best ramen in the village. Possibly the country. I silently wondered if I'd see him there. That would be nice, I haven't been able to hang out with him much since the Chuunin exam.
Fate, apparently, had a different plan. A plan that was ready to tear away everything I worked so hard for and crush it. A plan to rip away someone so important to me, someone so strong, someone who didn't deserve anymore hardships in his life-!
...But, I'm getting ahead of myself aren't I? I just feel so...distressed.
I was on my way to Ichiraku's when I spotted Kiba and Shino. However, they were not on their way to the randevue as I was. They were standing parallel to Shikamaru, Chouji, and Ino in an opening of an alley. My curiosity was piqued upon seeing them there. I had never thought anything was wrong, just odd.
But, as I drew closer, I noticed things. Kiba wasn't being loud or boisterous like usual. Ino wasn't talking at all really, her expression a sad one. Shino's emotions were always hard to read, but somehow, I think there would be a pitiful look behind his shades and collar. Chouji wasn't muching on anything. I thought that was impossible. Shikamaru hadn't said 'troublesome' once.
They were all simply standing there. I could see their lips moving softly, Shikamaru's mostly. Other than that, barely any movement at all. What could have made them so solemn? They were acting as if the were attending a funeral!
...And that thought is what sent me running.
I arrived next to Shino, panting slightly. Ino, Kiba, and Chouji's heads snapped up at hearing my footsteps. Shino turned to me, but said nothing. Nothing unusual about that, but a greeting would have done wonders for my nerves. Shikamaru didn't even look at me. Bad sign.
''W-what's wrong?" Dammit. I inwardly cursed. I hadn't meant for there to be a stutter in my voice. Somehow, it just seemed to slip out.
No answer yet. Ino, my friend, turned to me and opened her mouth as if to speak, then closed it. Her sky blue eyes slightly dimmed. Chouji put a hand on her shoulder and Shikamaru still looked deep in thought. I looked at my teammates, eyes pleading.
Kiba let out a shaky breath and shrugged, at a loss. That, or, he just couldn't find the words. Shino seemed to be my savior today. He let out an almost silent sigh, before looking me in the eyes, through his shades.
"Hinata-san...Something has...happened.'' He explained, choosing his words carefully. I was still confused, silently urging him to continue. Why? Why was my heart beating much faster now?
''You know Uzumaki Naruto?'' No. No. Kami, please no! ''Team 10 just informed us of his disappearance. Seems he's been missing for over a week, almost two. His whereabouts are unknown.''
My heart could have broken at those very words themselves. The graveness in my friend's voice added to the pain, proving that this was no lie. Naruto was missing. Missing! Gone! Gone before my very eyes!
''A-are there n-no clues?" I choked out, not even recognizing the fear in my quiet words. I now really, really wish I hadn't asked.
''Ino and I found a large amount of blood in the forest.'' Shikamaru's voice came from nowhere, startling Ino beside him as well as myself. ''They tested it...It was confirmed to be Naruto's.''
I was wrong. I thought before was the moment I dreaded the most. This moment surpasses by far. At least, before I had hope. Now...Now my mind was imagining all the possibilities of what happened to him.
Kami, he been missing for how long? A week; more? I haven't talked to him, barely seen him in almost a month. Didn't get to say goodbye. But, could he be alright, somehow? Yes, Naruto's strong, so strong! But-but the blood! Oh Kami, all that blood! No body, no evidence, just blood! Lot's and lot's of blood!
I couldn't think, I couldn't breathe. I needed to get out of here. I couldn't stay. There faces full of sadness, like they have already given up. I barely registered my teammates comforting comments, Ino's sympathetic stare, Chouji's condolences. Shikamaru just stood there.
''I don't think he's dead.'' His voice was so quiet, I almost didn't know who said it. All eyes turned on the young genius who was concentraing at the groung beneath their feet. His face was a devoid of most, almost all, emotion. He was calm collected, yet sad.
His words, though... He said dead. No, I couldn't take it. I couldn't bare to hear that word. So, I ran. I ignored the yells behind me, I ignored the calls that yelled towards me, and I just ran. Just like I watched him do once.
He, he always had it rough. He was always running from something someone. And no one ever called for him to stop, or come back. Hardly anyone called for him at all. And sometimes, when I remember those moments, I wish I would have raised my voice and called out to him. But I didn't.
He was like a puddle back then. Fascinating to watch. To see the ripples that form at the surface showing his struggle. To see how it grows due to his strife. To see people cast stones at the puddle for reasons unknown, watch as the ripples disappear and see the puddle heal itself afterwards.
But, he was a puddle, and I was too nervous to ever step in. Because everyone older than you that you trust- like your parents, your teachers, your cousins, all lead you away from the puddle. They tell you it's dangerous, worthless. Yet the puddle fascinates you and you continue to watch it curiously. And even though you grow quite fond of it, you still can't work up the courage to step in.
Because, you don't know how deep this puddle really is and you're scared of getting your feet wet. You really don't know what lies beneath the surface, you don't know how broken the bottom of that puddle could be. But you're content with simply watching the surface ripple then repair, and you think the puddle is invincible.
Naruto is like a puddle, except he's not invincible. He wasn't back then either.
Back then, I really didn't notice him at first. He just...didn't seem to stand out. Then, tragedy struck; I lost my mother. The gap she left was obvious and painful. My father mourned silently, burying himself in his clan leadership and training. My sister and I were ignored for we stirred up too many memories.
My sister was so young. She was no more than one or two when it happened. She was cared for mostly by my aunts and older cousins who often attempted to comfort me as well. But I was inconsolable, and though I appreciated the effort, I became distant.
So, I became quieter. I didn't run around with my peers as much. I didn't chat away during class at the academy. Instead, I watched and listened. That's when I started to notice him. The young blond who was always messing up. Always getting yelled at, laughed at. Once, he made a fool out of himself and the whole class was laughing while our sensei yelled at him.
I felt bad for him. Wouldn't blam him if he ran away, sulked, or even cried. But, miraculously, no. No, he stood proudly, glared at the class and said: ''You just wait! One day, I'll be the hokage!'' I was in one word: amazed.
If it had been me, it would have just been one more blow to my self-esteem. To him, it was a challenge. I soon got...curious to who he was. Paid attention more when he was mentioned in class. Uzumaki Naruto. I knew there weren't any other Uzumaki's in the village. And I never saw a parent at the inauguration ceremony. I found that he was not only motherless - like me - but had no family whatsoever.
I started to watch him more and noted more odd traits he had.
He always did everything alone. He never asked for help, but no one ever offered either. I had a sickening feeling deep down that if he ever did ask that no one would listen anyway. Maybe he was just a loner, is what I thought.
But, no. He most certainly was not the loner type. He was loud, energetic, and most of all bold. He yelled back at the teachers and argued with anybody. He wanted the attention, good or bad. Everyone else just thought he was acting out or that he didn't care. Couldn't they see ehat I saw?
I watched him train so hard, so vigorously. As if he was so desperate for the strength he needed to be recognized. Truth be told, I never knew what his motivation really was. All I saw was a brave, strong boy who seemed everything I wanted to be.
But as I said, I nearly watched, never going below the surface. I was still too afraid of getting my feet wet. I didn't really notice that he didn't have any friends. Why wouldn't anyone want to be his friend? I sure as hell did, if I could have worked up the nerve to speak to him.
Somehow, some way, the blond made his way into my heart. And it helped ease the pain and fill the hole left behind by my mother's absence. I just...wish I could have done the same for him.
But you didn't! You were too weak, too scared! And now he's gone!
I didn't even bother to acknowledge the moisture running down my cheeks. I was crying, yes. I didn't care though; I just kept running. I would run into oblivion if I could. But I'd have to settle for a secluded area where I could let out all my frustrations.
Not everyone might be feeling this as keenly as myself. That's only because I had deep feelings for Naruto. It's just as Budha says: The cause of suffering is attachment.
At first, I saw Naruto as a hero. That gradually became a crush. And for a few years, I had a deep infatuation with him. I loved him. Still do. Just not in the same way. Sure; he was my first love. But I've come to realize that I'm not inlove with him. He's everything I aspire to be and more; an amazing friend. I don't doubt he would be a devoted lover as well, but...I just don't foresee us ever being together like that.
Of course, that doesn't make the pain I feel right now any less. I feel like I've lost him and I don't even know if he's dead. Don't know if he's cold. Scared- wait, no. No, he wouldn't be scared. Because Naruto has always been strong, much stronger than me.
A-and I...I have to be strong for him too! My mind was right. I...I couldn't give up hope! If it were me or anyone else, Naruto would never stop believing! I know he's alive somewhere... Maybe that's what Shikamaru thought too.
At the thought of my lazy peer, I realized that I had stopped running. I blinked a few times through blurry vision. Wiping the rest of my tears, I sniffed a little before regaining my eyesight. Where exactly had my legs carried me in my emotional state?
The woods. Outside of the village. Well, barely. I wasn't far-! ...at all.
Suddenly, something caught my eye. Nothing at first glance. But if you look past the shrubs and bushes you could see a faint color blotched into the ground. Very faint. My keen eyesight however detected...red.
I walked over to the spot, my movements almost robotic. I was no longer a distressed, young girl. I was in investigative shinobi mode. I activated my Byakugan immediately and observed my surroundings.
There...I knew it! Blood. There had been blood. A lot of it. I ignored the nausea that welled in my stomach at this thought. Looks like it was already cleaned up and investigated. There's still some traces of it left, though...
This is where it happened... Ironic how this is the spot where my feet led me. But surely not a coincidence. No, fate brought me here for a reason. There must be something I can find, something I can do!
I searched the ground for more evidence. A few blotches of dried blood here and there. In a very painstaking manner, I carefully chipped away some of the soil with the blood on it and placed it in my pocket. Using my ever-so-useful kekkai genkei, I spotted a glint of metal, possibly a shard of some type of weapon. I tucked that away too, just in case it was evidence.
No more weeping... No more sitting around like a pathetic wimp. I worked to get this strong. I'm strong enough now, to protect those I care about. I won't be a burden; I'm going to help!
I deactivated me Byakugan. The spot had already been thoroughly investigated; there couldn't be much left. Though, I might be able to use the shard or blood. Not on my own of course. I was going to need help of some sort.
Is it all worthless? How do I know he's even alive? Naruto... Give me a sign. Please...
The wind shifted, blowing more sharply against my skin, gracing my dark strands of hair. The breeze became so strong it blew the leaves through the air and ruffles the bottom of shrubs and bushes. And light-...?
Light? Under a bush? I ran over swiftly and was startled at my find. Naruto's treasured headband. The one he wore so proudly and flaunted whenever someone questioned his worthiness. He deserved to wear this.
And he will. This is a sign that he's alive. Naruto, I swear if it's the last thing I do...
I looked determinedly towards the sky. The sunlight was trickling through the canopy of tree and resting upon the forest floor. Gripping the cool metal in my hand, so hard it drew blood; the red substance trickling onto the symbol ingraved on it. This was my Oath of Blood.
...I will return this to you.
Naruto's pov
A gentle knock came at the door. It was the first noise I'd heard in hours. It was so dreadfully boring being a prisoner. Maybe that's how they killed you. Kakashi-sensei said you can't die of boredom, but I must disagree.
Without another knock - or wait for invitation - a person entered. Konan this time. He was beginning to keep a mental list now. There were nine members of Akatsuki. Orochimaru left a while ago. There was Itachi of course, and he knew he had a partner - Kisame - who he'd met while searching for Tsunade. Then, he met Konan and Deidara. That left four unknown members; one of which was their leader.
Whom he would be meeting today. Oh joy.
''Well, you look better...'' Konan began, ''but still dreadful.'' She deadpanned. I rolled my eyes and muttered a ''thanks'' under my breath.
''It's time you take a real shower. I will be escorting you from this room to the showers. However...'' I inwardly sighed. Explanation/warning alert.
''There is only one exit to this hideout. If you were to actually think of heading for it, there is a seal on the door. But you would not, because there are seven elite ninja besides myself in the area who you are bound to run into. Who, will not be responsible for more of your wounds if you chose to attempt escape. Understood?''
This time, I really did sigh. I almost wanted to laugh. ''I'm not stupid. No chance of escape. I don't know where the hell I am, I'm still healing, and don't stand a chance against you guys. I tried to get out. Didn't work. So, I'm not gonna make a run for it, so let's get this over with 'cause I think I'm starting to stink.''
I could have sworn I saw a ghost of a smile appear on that blank face. But, it quickly diminished. I idly wondered if I could make a real smile appear on her face. She gestured for me to follow her and I inwardly took a deep breath. Or maybe it was a sigh of relief. Relief and anxiety; that's what was twisting in the pit of my stomach.
Because once I stepped out this door and saw the outside world again, I know I'll want to live.
And I was willing to take that chance. 'Cause I missed it. I was truly an energetic person at heart. I wanted to feel the warm sulight or the cool breeze as I ran through the green grass and passed the tall trees. I'd give a lot to see that sight again.
You're just walking out a door moron! It's not like we're crossing dimensions!
Suddenly, I found myself falling forward. My swift - slightly wounded - reflexes kicked in quickly, so that my fall became a slight stumble. I looked back eyes wide, angry reaction at the ready. ''What the hell, Kiba-!'' I cut myself off abruptly, stunned by my own words. I hadn't meant to say his name, but I was so used to...
Used to...
I shook my head, abandoning my stupor. I looked back to find the blue-haired woman staring at me a bit oddly. Calmly, she stated, ''My name is Konan. Are you confused?''
I glared childishly. ''No, I'm not an idiot! It's just...it's nothing. Anyway, let's just- hey!'' Before I could even finish my pointless rant she turned the corner and began walking. I hated when people did that. Nonetheless, I followed, grumbling foul curses under my breath.
The walls were all similar to my room; no variety really. Just rock that looked like it had been lazily carved out to form endless halls and rooms. Or maybe this was formed naturally by an old underground river. Iruka-sensei told us about stuff like that back in the academy. I also remember him telling us about how enemy ninja's would fill their hideouts with countless traps and halls that led nowhere to disorient and or kill the intruders.
''Uh...Konan-san?'' I asked. She nodded in acknowledgement. ''Is this hideout place filled with traps, like ya' know...paper bombs, floors that open into shards of bamboo, shuriken that fire from walls, ect...?''
''This place is deep underground in a secluded area in the Whirlpool Country. Therefore, we have no need for such traps; and, if any intruder actually managed to get in, they would be killed by whomever was closest. So, to answer your question, no.'' She explained monotonously.
I muttered a light thanks under my breath. So, no trap. That's good, I guess. Still, I was a bit unnerved about wandering in unknown surroundings when escape was in no way possible, so I intended to try and memorize the path we were taking. But through all the twists and truns, lefts and right, and no difference whatsoever in the scenery, I found it fairly difficult.
I was jolted when the figure in front of me took a sharp turn and then suddenly stopped. I - who was of course not aware of this layout - was not prepared and collided with the woman in front of me. Falling back, my ass hit the floor with a slight thump along with a hiss from irritating my sore body.
Feeling like an idiot, I grumbled aloud and tried to shake it off. Some thing never change, I thought sourly. As I was about to hoist myself off the ground, an appendage appeared before my face. A hand. The pale extension had seemingly appeared from the inside of a concealed cloak and had revealed itself in an apparent act of kindness.
I stared at the hand numbly for a moment, a deep sense of longing and bitterness coming out of nowhere and lodging itself in my throat. Before my mind could catch up with me, I latched onto the hand and allowed the surprisingly string female to assist me.
''Thank you.'' I said quietly - no sarcasm evident - and swallowed the vile rising at the edge of my throat. An uncharacteristic show of kindness. Way to throw me off.
I wanted to brush it off. Tell myself it was just a misleading act of pity or mock, but I couldn't escape the warmth it gave me in the pit of my stomach. I shook my head tiredly and decided to just ignore the warmth, since it wouldn't last long anyway.
''Behind that door, you'll find the showers and soap and such. Afterwards, you are going to see Leader-sama. I'll leave you to it.'' Without another word, she turned and left. I waited until her soft footsteps faded and the space was consumed by the awkward silence. I smiled sheepishly to no one in particular, not even my lone self.
Twisting the door knob, I walked in almost mechanically. Shockingly, it was actually tiled like regular showers. Someone must have had a shopping spree. I thought with a wicked grin. Strangely, it reminded me of a prison shower. 'Cept it was thankfully, not as open. I supposed that was mostly due to the female member. Or females for that matter. I haven't met all of them yet.
I walked over to the metallic stall in the very back corner. I removed my clothes in a heap outside the door. Warily, I stepped into the shower, not even bothering to remove my bandages. I hissed loudly when the warm water hit my skin but it felt good to wash away the grime of dirt and blood. The bandages became uncomfortable and soggy, some falling wetly from the pressure of the water.
Will this water wash away the scars? The sins? The feeling of being incredibly worthless and helpless, stuck; trapped. Between two worlds, one of depression and no hope, but also no pain and suffering. And another fill with agony and despair but also faith and love. Which one was worth it more? Should I sink into the dark abyss and never feel loneliness among the dead?
Mind still between two dimensions, I numbly reached for the soap and rubbed the suds around my broken body. Everything that the isolation of that prison of a room had preserved me in seemed to crumble the moment I stepped outside it into the living world. And only now did it start to seep in.
I was destroyed; defeated. By my very own allies. They very village I strived to lead took me down. I was supposed to die, but was saved by our enemies. So, where did that leave me? Was I a rogue now? Where was my home...?
What would I know about home? I thought with sudden rage and despair. What would an orphan freak know what a home was? How would I know what warmth from a parent, happiness of a sibling, or even pride of a father would feel like? How could the lonely jinchuuriki know about love? It's not he has feelings, right? It's not like he cries when he's sad, trembles when he's scared, or loves when he cares? Why would the monster wonder what a family was?
Let's just kill him, and send him away! I mean, who needs a hokage like that? One whose weak, pathetic, and above all; worthless! Bury the moster six feet- no, ten feet deep! Let him suffer in the pits of hell with his demon brethren, eh? Who cares? Who cares?
''...nobody...'' I croaked, voice a mixture of anger and sad understanding. It was the voice of a defeated man. Boy, I must be a sight, huh? Bruised, kicked around and just trying to wash away the shame from my scarred body. Ha. What a sight...
I shut the water off wordlessly and winced at the slow burning ache in all my muscles. But the ache meant that I was healing. That was something, at least. Dressing was going to hurt like a bitch, but hey? I've had worse, I'm sure.
When I looked at myself in the mirror, it took just a second to realize it was my reflection. But no, this can't be me. I am a monster, a freak of nature. I'm supposed to be ugly and disgusting beyond all belief. Maybe I...am?
Is this who I am? This boy with blond, spiky hair and bright blue eyes? Slightly tanned skin and odd whisker marks? Was this the face that came to mind when people thought of ''knuckle-headed?'' Or ''monster child?'' Or maybe ''nobody?'' But whose face was this? I have no parents to resemble. I no longer have a home to return. So, who does that make me?
''I am Uzumaki Naruto.'' The reflection said, as the words flew from my lips. And the blond boy looked back at me with such a fierce fire in his eyes, which I hadn't felt in my own for a long time.
It was a fire that burned immensely and said ''fuck the village and whatever anyone thinks. You are Uzumaki Naruto. They strip you of your rank, your life, and maybe even your purpose; but they can never take away your name.''
And for the first time not only since I left that cursed room - but since I awoke in captivity - I feel a will of fire burning within my being. So go ahead Konoha, Akatsuki, or even Kami himself; kill me if you wish. But on that gravestone that marks my burial, it'll spell Uzumaki Naruto even if I have to write it in blood myself.
Lost in a villanous hideout. Wonderful.
Where the hell was I supposed to go? Konan said I was supposed to meet with their leader or something. However, she failed to give me directions to said meeting place. So, when I was finished showering and dressed once again, where was I to go? Hell if I knew. But, that's never stopped me before.
So I left, and began my trek or Kami-knows-where.
Hello, and welcome to Tour Guide Ninja, I thought dryly. I'm your guide, trained to kill in over a hundred ways! On our left, we have a misshapen stone wall of some sort! And on the right we have the same! Oh, and if you look above you'll find that we're underground! And...that's about it! Thank you, I hope you've enjoyed out fruitless tour of a sociopaths society's natura-
Omphh!
As a shinobi, I've collided with many things in my work. This particular collision reminded me of sneaking around enemy territory, then turning only to smack right into a hard, brick wall! Only, this was no wall, instead a human(I think). I thank whatever kami left, that I didn't fall back on my ass this time. I only stumbled back roughly with a wince, but managed to catch myself at the last minute.
It took me two seconds to recognize the ominous black coat with red clouds. It took three seconds for me to tell myself to shut the hell up, this guy is dangerous. Sadly, it only took one and a half seconds to run my big, fat mouth.
''Watch it, asshole.'' I muttered angrily. Just barely after the last syllables left my lips, a strong hand grasped my neck and holy hell; tight! A choked sound escaped my airway before the hand immediately loosened so that I could breath, but it still lingered firmly, warningly.
''Watch what you say, fucking punk!'' He barked and I opened my eyes to get a good look at the guy. Yes, it was a guy. He held my feet off the ground with one arm so we were almost at eye level, but he still remained intimidating as hell.
Tall, strong as shit, and wearing the distinct Akatsuki dress code. Except now that I see, his is more opened around the collar displaying a headband tied around his neck like a choker. It was a strange symbol that I had never seen, but heard of. Yugakure, Sensei called it, the Village Hidden in the Steam.
"Sorry, man." I mumbled and felt sudden pride that I didn't even stutter. He eyed me suspiciously - I think - or maybe it was calculating. But it wasn't analytical like Shikamaru or Sasuke's stare; it more so reminded me of the look I gave new food before cautiously poking it with my fork.
''Hey...'' He drawled, looking me straight in the eye, ''you must be that fucking kid hanging around...Uh...What the fuck was your name? That Deidara bastard mentioned it...'' He thought aloud, seemingly racking his brain.
What an articulate fellow, I thought sarcastically.
''Uzumaki...Naruto,'' I stated as clear as one could with a hand wrapped around his throat. Clarity sprung to his face instantly, and he snapped his fingers with the only free hand.
''That's it!'' He exclaimed. ''The fucking Konoha brat!'' He eyed me up and down once more for good measure. ''Geez, you are fucking young...'' He said, finally setting me down and relinquishing his grip on my collar.
''I'm thirteen. I'm sure you were killing puppies or attacking villages by then.'' I retorted, rubbing the spot where he nearly squished me like toothpaste.
Shockingly, instead of killing me, he bellowed a laugh and smirked down at my confused face. ''As I said before ya' little shit, ya' better watch what ya' say. But you're much more wily than most prisoners!'' He stopped short, and scratched his oddly colored hair thoughtfully.
''Why are you wandering 'round here?'' He asked. I sent him somewhat of a glare, and realized that I really did no longer fear death and could take my chances.
''Getting lost in this shitty place.'' I grumbled. ''This Konan girl, told me I was supposed to meet me this 'Leader-sama' after I got a shower, but I have no freakin' clue where to go or what I'm really doing for that matter.'' I explained, very annoyed. I nearly groaned in irritation. What the hell was I doing?
''Oh.'' Was all he said. I nearly sighed heavily in agitation, but caught myself. ''Come on, little shit.''
I froze. What? ''Huh?''
He turned around and started walking, only saying, ''Well, I'd better take you to Leader-sama if that's where you're 'posed to go. So, get your ass movin' and keep up.'' He yelled. I blinked. Considered my options. Realized I had none. Inwardly shrugged, and thanked Kami once again that through this whole encounter I did not piss my pants.
Took care of that in the shower.
''So...who are you?'' The words sprung from my mouth before I could even berate myself. Curiosity killed the fox, I suppose. Surprisingly, he didn't seem all that bothered by the question.
''Hidan.'' He answered. ''Former ninja of Yugakure, and present Jashin.'' Hidan said. My brow furrowed.
''What's a Jashin?'' I asked and almost again cursed myself for my curiosity. Eh, what are you gonna do?
''What's a Jashin? What the hell did they teach you at your fucking school? Damn Konoha and their narrow-minded fuckers who teach!'' He accused abruptly. I didn't know whether to be taken aback or laugh.
Before I could muster a retort, he continued, ''Jashin is my religion and my god. Unlike Buddhism or Shinto, Jashin teaches true values(ha), and anything less than reeking well-deserved havoc and death in battle is considered a sin.'' Hidan answered, if not maybe a hint of pride in his voice.
That explains so much...yet so little...of what I could have lived the whole rest of my life without knowing, Hidan.
''Hmm. Nope, they never taught us that. Though, they really didn't teach of religion in school.'' I shrugged, trying to sound casual. The Jashin 'hmped' as if he expected no less.
''Probably stupid temples or some shit, where you learn about 'Kami-sama' and shit like that, right?'' He grumbled.
''Well...I don't know, really.'' He glanced at me. I felt suddenly nervous under his gaze. ''N-not that I don't respect religion or nothin'. I...think I believe in just about any god that's out there. But see, I wasn't allowed at the temple or church. If I wanted to, I'd have to go after hours or sneak in or something...'' I tried to explain.
I turned away from his gaze, unwavering eyes unnerving me. Crap, did I insult his way of life or something? Religion seems big in this guys book so if I offended him or- ''That's a fucking load of shit.''
My eyes could have quite comically bounced off the wall of they got any wider, and I was surprised my legs still managed to move on their own without my brain helping whatsoever. Cautiously, I looked over at him and offered a confused, ''Huh?''
His lips were curled up in an angry snarl that I had seen on many faces throughout my life. I almost expected being hit or something, 'cause that's what usually comes next. But this time...it..wasn't directed at me?
''Assholes over in Konoha don't know who the fuck they are.'' I nearly choked on my tongue. Stupid mind, never around when I need it! ''In my cult, anyone willing to spread chaos and death was taken in with open arms by Jashin. No matter what race, or clan back round. Hell, having a demon sealed inside you should get you extra points in the eyes of any god!'' Hidan ranted.
A disbelieving snort left my mouth. ''How do you figure that?''
Those eyes were looking at me again. And it wasn't an 'are-you-stupid' look, or 'you're-such-kid-' or even 'you-disgust-me'. It was...serious. ''I don't know what you've been taught about religion, but I'll tell you something.'' Hidan said quietly.
''I thought gods existed to watch over people, not to judge. They're not supposed to like one better than another or be biased.'' Here, he shrugged. ''People sin, people offer, people desroy. Gods are supposed to reward and punish these things in fair ways; I mean, aren't they supposed to do what we cannot?''
''All religions are different; your ''Kami-sama'' prolly is all about forgiveness and just, while Jashin respects death and destruction. But the concept is about the same, or some shit like that. Point is, fuckers have no right to say anyone - demon, human, or whatever the hell is in between - can't pray.''
Wow. I'd never thought of it that way. In a way...he's right. They never had a right to treat me that way, especially the church! Before I never thought I was being mistreated since I thought I deserved it. After being treated like dirt, you start to feel like. Only now do I realize I was being cheated.
So maybe, Kami-sama wasn't punishing me... Perhaps, I wasn't hated by even the gods. All my through my, childhood I had hated Kami-sama for the way things were, think he cursed me, sealed my fate unfairly. But it wasn't he who excluded me; it was the people. Maybe he would have opened his arms to even a damned soul like myself.
For some reason, that made me feel awfully good inside. Made me feel really nice...was it faith or just plain joy? By surprise, look who I have to thank for this epiphany.
I smiled unwittingly, grinning like a mad idiot. ''You know, that was pretty insightful for a potty mouth.'' I laughed, it coming out so easily it took me by surprise. I hadn't laughed like that in a while.
''Why you little jackass...'' He barked, but he was smirking too. Hell, I almost forgot this was a prisoner/captive thing, it sounded more like talking to a friend or dirty-mouthed uncle.
Finally he stopped, and I almost fell again (being bandaged really makes me off-balance) but he put an arm out to stop me. I got steady immediately and tried not to blush for acting like an uncoordinated moron.
''Here,'' he said, gesturing at the door in front of us. ''Leader-sama's in here.'' I stood tall and faced my door of fate. The leader of mad group of assasins. He had to be REALLY strong to have these guys follow and obey him. I gulped, unconsciously.
''Hey, don't worry ya' little shit.'' He clamped an arm on my shoulder. ''I'm sure he won't kill you.'' Oh, that real reassuring!
''Oi!'' I exclaimed when he flung open the door and ungracefully rushed(threw) me inside with a chuckled of, ''In you go!''
I landed this time on my palms and knees and certainly scraped them on the sharp stone floor. ''I'll get that bastard back.'' I mumbled under my breath. Stupid pony-tail guy. I could have walked in myself...Maybe.
''Ahem,'' a cool, dark voice rumbled and I felt all the color drain from my face. The room was as dark and sinister as I imagined, only lit by two luminous candles along the walls.
Quickly, I stood up and tried to right myself as best I could. Always had to look cool for the villain. Oh, not the time for humor...
Quiet footsteps approached me. Until the tall figure was standing right in front of me. Taking every ounce of courage left in my body, I looked up at the powerful man.
Dark red hair. Piercings lined along his nose and ears. Eyes I had never seen before, but found myself fearing and worshiping at the same time. They were like two dark violet pond filled with ripples. I didn't know what bloodline this could possibly be, but knew that these eyes were dangerous.
Desperately, the fear inside me urged me to look away from these eyes. But I found myself too confident and mesmerized to look away; to reveal such weakness in front of a man like this. So, I held my breath and waited with growing anxiety as cold eyes assessed me like jinchuuriki I was.
''Uzumaki Naruto,'' I exhaled raggedly, ''I am Pein. We have things to discuss.''
Cliffhanger! I'm so evil, I know! This chapter was to show how other people in the village that were close to him are taking the news. Hinata's pov was a first for me, so tell me how it was. Also, I introduced Hidan, the potty mouth who killed Asuma. *RIP* He might have been majorly OC for all I know (I didn't watch many episodes with him) so, sorry if I didn't quite nail his charm.
Oh, f.y.i, this will not be NaruHina. Honestly, I really do like the couple, but it's not my OTP. She is mentioned to have a crush on him before, but now just admires and respects him. Naruto, however, is like a brother and very important to Hinata. He cares for her the same.
Next chapter: Naruto talks with Pein! Then, Akatsuki have a meeting to decided his future! Maybe some of Konoha too. See ya' next time!
