KN: Yo well sorry for this big fuckin delay but shit has been hitting the fan lately. Got a broken arm a few days into vacation and it just healed so that really messed me up. Along with just life messing with me. Really I never knew two girls with purses could do so much damage to me. But meh I'll deal with it. Though I've decided to put my 'What lies Beneath' story on hold for a while and stick to working on my two crossovers. But any ways I guess I'll answer some questions that keep getting sent.
Okay a simple one why have him go to Canada. Simple I like Canada and it's one of the places I know where there's still some crazy ass wild life. Could had made him gone to Alaska but don't know maybe that'll be for next time.
Okay next one why have him be so angsty out of nowhere. Well there are two answers to that one. Answer A. who said he hasn't been angsty maybe he's good at hiding it or I like you guys to read between the lines. Answer B. I think this one will be the more logical answer and make me sound less whiney than answer A. Oh and sorry if I'm sounding really a-hole about it but I just did this whole chapter in one night from scratch. Seriously I only had one line and finished it right now at 7:30 in the morning. But anyways the other answer would be because I was angsty. It'll make more sense if I answer it with the next question.
Why have Naruto be all musical or have any talent in it at all. When he shows no signs in the manga or anime for it. For some reason this one has been thrown a lot. Simple my life revolves around music. An easier way to answer is the answer I have given upcoming authors that have asked me for help in character development. Simple I don't come up with some bad ass personality. I simple take bits and pieces of Naruto and mix them in with my own. Everything that I have him say or the way that he acts are things I say, do or have done. Ranging from the perverted comments to the angstyness to the just plain dumbassness. And as for the guitar I love my guitar and before I even include a song in any story I make sure I can at least play pieces of it if not the entire song you just have to respect the artist. And the music isn't a big deal so you could just skip it. As for the angst this should be the last of it so like me please deal. And trust me guys most girls love it. Well these are the basic ones and I'm tired of running my mouth. So yeah thanks for the reviews and for those of you that stay loyal and check these stories out.
Disclaimer: Seriously how could I own these two awesome shows? So no I do not own Naruto or X men: Evolution. But my cousin is the pope so back off.
Naruto P.O.V
I hate this so much, this feeling of being weak. This shouldn't be this way not since I made that vow to never be useless. But yet here I stand in the middle of this lake still cursed by my own hand. I finally awoke from my slumber a few days ago and I was still haunted by these phantoms, truly those two days of being unconscious were not what I wished for them to be.
"God must really hate me" I mumble as I begin to form hand signs in rapid succession for the Katon: Gōkakyū Jutsu (Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique). What could I say I was really starting to get pissed with all this crap happening besides I had to do something to keep me distracted.
"No kit…kami doesn't hate you" commented the fox inside of me "She's just really bored and needs a drama show"
"Shut up Kyuubi" I retort as I launched the ball of fire towards the sky and begin to feed it chakra which causes it to expand and grow hotter. This is defiantly a relief from the constant pain that is inflicted upon me. Along with me finally starting to piece myself back together-well hopefully.
"Yeah no shit kit, I was starting to get annoyed with all the sulking. Hell you had me doing it" argued the fox spirit. Yeah easy to say Kyuubi was relived of my will being somewhat restored well enough for us to start acting a bit more light hearted. Especially since I started treating these phantoms more of a joke than anything else; even though it's easier said than done. Though that's not to say that the curse hasn't retaliated with causing me pain- hell I think that I pissed them off last time when I played the song. They have truly kicked it up a notch as this plane of existence is at times overlapping with my tainted past. That in itself is truly chilling to say the least- not that I haven't seen more than my share when searching my mind.
"Focus kid" called out the fox that I held within me. As he continued to multitask in searching for any clues and trying to keep me sane. Sometimes I guess the fox is a blessing…
"I got it" I respond as I end the jutsu and I flash out several kunai in anticipation for what was coming up next. Waiting for the opportune moment I keep my focus on the water's surface. Seeing what I want I lash out the kunai with enough force that I know they will make it to the shore as they pierce the fish that jump from the water.
Grinning I give a nod to the three clones that break the water's surface as they themselves return it as well before they release themselves. This is so nostalgic as I remember the times that I spent as a gennin in the Forest of Death with squad seven. This was the same strategy that Sasuke and I came up with as we hunted for food. Though I can't enjoy those memories as I begin to feel an icy aura to circle around my own body.
"You know I am starting to wonder if you will ever give up. Cause I won't break" I call out as I brace myself for anything that will be sent towards me. As my senses stretch out and search for anything out of the ordinary my vision begins to warp. And before everything is resettled I am hit with a large amount of killing intent. The killing intent isn't what has me on edge but the source of it.
"Why? You're all supposed to be dead! Why do I have to deal with you again?" I let out as I bristle at the ones who stand before me. Whatever was behind this was really starting to hit the right buttons if it wanted to see me angered. These three had haunted my dreams after their actions against me when I turned ten. Because before me stood three people that had a special place within me, a place that had brought me almost to the edge of insanity. Before me stood three shinobi that had felt obligated to finish me off.
"You know you I never thought I would see you all again…even though I remember each of you so clearly" I call out as I had reigned in my emotions and try to hold myself together. These three ANBU have always haunted me every year…making me fear to close my eyes as a child. They were some of the best shinobi of their time and for every right reason with the number of confirmed kills they had. They had struck fear into many of the enemies of Konoha and more than enough into my own heart. Never had I experience such fear than at the hands of these three-Falcon, Shark, and Bull.
"You took everything from us" growled out the ANBU with the shark mask as he began to move towards the right. Yet as I look at him it's as if he isn't even talking to me at all- but then again I shouldn't be surprised. Whatever was going on with me always revolved around past confrontations against my demons. Conversations that I have to endure once again…
"I never did anything against you three" I call out in a firm voice but I feel how much trouble I have in keeping my voice steady. 'Stay cool Namikaze'
"You took our family" hissed out the ANBU with the bull mask as he makes for the left. It was true they lost their entire family when Kyuubi attacked…but god damn it I shouldn't be held responsible.
"I never did I helped in protecting the village, why wouldn't you and your brothers ever listen! You would have all lived!" I growl out as I let my anger out of control for just a second. Their deaths were meaningless…a waste of life. They were some of the only ones I could truly feel sorry for…but I was not at fault for their foolish decisions.
"You took our brother" seethed the only remaining ANBU in front of me as he walked with his blade already unsheathed. This was how they had cornered me before and I growled as I shivered for just a moment involuntarily.
"He made his choice…and Kakashi made sure he paid for it" I answer as I narrow my eyes in anger. Their brother had tried to kill me before on my eighth birthday-the same bastard that had attacked me at the beginning of all this. And now that I think of it I guess it's not really a surprise to see that they came for me sooner or later. Too bad I never knew that as a child…I had awakened every night after they took me screaming in fear. Though it soon passed after Kakashi assured me they were taken care of; along with me figuring out that it was useless to be afraid. Though none the less I still didn't need that as a kid.
"So now you fall KYUUBI!" they roared as they came at me from all three angles and…I couldn't move. My body was frozen as I saw their blades ready to impale me. Is this how I wanted it to end…I knew my answer and it was clearly a no. I still had too much to live for…no I had to stay alive. Reassuring myself I raised my head to be able to look at them in the face and I saw nothing but hate behind their masks. The very same way they had looked at me in the past…some things never change.
"But know this just how time goes on so have I…and I am not that little brat you nearly killed!" I yell out as I force myself to move again and begin to gather chakra around my body. Soon enough I'm surrounded by my chakra that's raging like flames. If only I had this power as a child so much pain could had been avoided and so many death stopped in their tracks.
'But now is not the time for these thoughts' I remind myself as I get into my fighting stance as I await their attacks. But I'm not even sure if I could fight these demons off…even if they aren't even the real thing…their power and strength is likely to be as strong as their will to end my life. And with my current weakened state I don't know how long I can drag this out.
"But I won't let it end" I mumble as I let my power surge in waves; sending waves of chakra around my body. And in short stopping the three ANBU in their tracks. "I guess you really should learn to hold yourselves together" I add with a frown as I pump more chakra and am pleased with the results as I let another pulse of chakra out. Though I hold back a cry of pain as I feel the strain on my body…never before has it hurt to unleash my chakra. To feel this unwavering burn…is as being burned by Amaterasu but I bear through it.
Soon the three ANBU slowly begin to fade back into the abyss of my mind as if the wind was blowing away the sands of time. Opening my eyes once more I see all that's left is myself as I stand here…strange never even noticed I had them closed. Though I soon taste something I am far too well familiar with as I taste something warm and metallic. Reaching my hand up to my mouth I rub off some of the liquid that is dripping from my mouth and see it is blood…my own.
"Why?" I mumble as I fall onto one knee on the water's rippling surface. That pain I felt as I used my chakra was never supposed to happen. But my thoughts are interrupted as I lurch over and see as the blood is further released.
"Naruto…" I hear as the fox calls out from within his cage; our link being reconnected as it always happens after these attacks. And I hear his worry as all playfulness from before vanishes…
"I think I'm alright" I respond as I rise once again…I hate this feeling…being vulnerable. Slowly I have to concentrate on taking steps back to the land. Surprisingly I was lucky enough to be able to concentrate while in pain to stay on the water's surface. I wonder how the others are doing with the water walking technique. And just like that I remember the girls back at the institute…god how I miss them. Just at the thought of not being near them is like being torn from the inside out. I haven't felt this way since Ino was away from my side for long periods of time.
"Kid you sure you okay" adds the fox after as I reach the shore and quickly begins to pump his chakra for its healing abilities…damn thing really did care for being a supposedly evil spirit.
"Yeah Kyu the pain is all but gone and I'm starting to feel control over my chakra" I answer as I pick up the forgotten fish. Weird how the pain was there in an instant yet gone in the same way that not even Kyuubi's chakra could heal at such a rate. There had only been one person in my life so far that had been able to do that and all I had of her were memories. But the thoughts of Kitty and Rogue were just as strong surprising to me. But not because of lack of feelings for them, I care about them far too much. But because of the short amount of time which it has occurred in.
"Could it be that…" I thought out loud as I began to piece things together but shook my head at the thought of it actually being a reality. Bringing myself out of those thoughts I shot a burst of fire at the dry wood I had already collected and set the fish over it on the sticks they had been impaled in.
"They still deserve better than me" I remind myself as I take a seat next to the fire and bask in its heat and slowly reach out to it and feed it my wind chakra causing it to grow slightly in heat. Yet at the same time giving me complete control over it. Slowly I move my hand in small gestures and cause the flames to dance to my will. And soon I remember when I had done this before it had been during a mission to help the Waterfall village-a mission I had taken…with her. "You defiantly deserved better than me angel" I whisper out.
"Brat keep it up and I'll make your so called 'demons' seem like kittens" growled out Kyuubi as I felt him claw the bars of his cage.
"Your showing and awfully large amount of care Kyu…as I remember that's a human quality. Something you had said and if I recall correctly 'useless'" I respond with a smile as I sense his irritation
"Keep it up and I'll show you care" shot back the demonic spirit though I could tell it was all but an empty threat. Even if the fox at times showed signs of care he would always deny them as the need for his survival. Even though he had already accepted the fact that he and I were pretty much screwed and stuck with each other… he still had his pride.
"Of course all mighty king of none" I shoot back and hear his growl and smile before I hear him mumble "Virgin". Feeling a growing tick above my brow but let it slide as I deserved that one…and I really didn't want to go through this argument all over again. "So learn anything new this time after the attack?" I ask
"Only that this attack lasted longer than the others…not to mention that they are defiantly pissed if they can use killing intent." Responded the fox as I grab the fish that are already done and begin to eat "Oh and you control over your chakra is crap whenever they occur"
"Fuck you Kyu" I answer as I take a bite out of the fish and think about it. That is pretty much true that pain I felt was a testament to that even if it was an unnatural sign of lack of control. "Any reason why?" I ask as I was truly confused on this as I had held control of my chakra till the attack started.
"Nope" was the sophisticated answer I receive from the damn fox "But I guess I better go and check things out. You coming?" The fox was probably going to check what parts of my mind were causing all of this.
"No I'll join you latter; I want to move the location to somewhere else. You know incase I get bored" I answer as I rise from the ground and use a small water jutsu on the fire. Seeing that it's out I gather my things and take to the trees.
"Fine" was all I got as the fox cut the connection to go off on one of the searches; hopefully we'll find something worthwhile. All the past times that we've tried we have gotten nothing. Well that is if you consider going through some of the more painful memories nothing then yeah. Though it hurts I guess it has to be done…since some of the more valuable of things are achieved by sacrifice than I guess it's worth it. Though I doubt the girls would enjoy seeing this part of the process. They never really could stand to see me in pain if it wasn't done by their hand. They truly do have some of Ino in them I suppose- certainly thickheaded as her. Yet at the same time they have something more that makes them unique to no one else. Rogue having that loving touch that makes me feel the light of day like never before and Kitty having that aura of just happiness and care that leaves me wanting to be near her just to be able to experience it.
"Is suppose I am selfish for wanting them so much" I mumble as I twist in mid air and grab onto another branch that changes my direction. 'I am such an ass for even moving in their direction' I think as I move towards the states…though I promise I'll stop before I get near the border. But just moving closer in their direction leaves me with contentment like never before. Though I know I can't and won't get closer than that. This crap that's been happening is just getting too much to handle. I've awaken enough times-after my decision to fight back- with a kunai embedded in the trunk of a tree.
"Deep enough to cause death" I remind myself bitterly. As I think of how that could had been one of the others or one of the girls. It could have been a reality if I hadn't been strong enough to resist the girls' ploys in getting me to stay. The way they enjoy sleeping next to me at nights was probably the more powerful reasons for me to leave. That would put them in more danger than being in a room with a pissed off rabid dog. Their fragile forms being even near me-in a room full of hidden weapons no less- would have truly made me a monster.
"And that is something that I intend to never be" I whisper as I pick up my speed. Yet part of me knows that saying that is a lie. Someone that has delivered death in the ways that I have...may truly be what others wish to be a monster. Even if the reasons behind them had been for a better good. It still leaves me with anger at the thought of how much killing had to be done. But I'm not sure at whom myself the blade, the bastard that had to be taken out, or the god that watches all this in amusement.
"None of that compares to the hate I have of my lack of control" These raging emotions I have are what probably leave me so broken down. For me to feel so many contradicting emotions at once is draining. To feel love and happiness only to meet hate and loathing is draining within themselves. Especially for someone who is a shinobi- we pride ourselves in being able to control our emotions when necessary. This is probably causing me to have so much trouble in the first place- without emotional control my answers will be out of my grasp.
"Though I have had worse things in my way before. And just like those I'll break this" I call out with a smirk as I feel my will rise again. "Agony, pain, anger these are all things I have been dealt with. And with each one I have had hope and risen to face them down and embrace the rewards they leave behind. This time though it will mean much more than before. Because now I have found my reasons to live after years without one. And no one will take it from me"
Kitty's P.O.V, her history class
'Life without you nearby is so dull' I think as I sit during the teachers PowerPoint about something I really don't want to think about. Normally even if I didn't like the subject I would still pay attention. But now I can't…it feels like some part of me is missing. And I know what it is or more like whom. But even though I know that it's him it's hard to ignore. His absence is just as strong as feeling the burning feeling of your hand to an open flame. And yet I know Naruto's presence is just the same as when he's here. But when he is here it doesn't burn or hurt…it's like a warm embrace. He makes your worries leave you…in simple ways that make you laugh at the simplicity of it all.
'When did I get so deep in thought about all of this? Actually about anything?' I wonder in my head. And in truth I had never been someone who would really think about something in so much detail. But since Naruto walked into my life I've noticed all of these changes. Even if they were happening little by little, causing me to see the bigger picture in all of this. I guess it's' because of the way Naruto is when it comes to something's. He's one of those people that listen to you no matter what without judgment…well unless you come after him or someone he cares for. Probably why most of the male recruits prefer him when teaching them. He always is able to help them with anything they need help in. 'That and they always end up blowing something up' I remind myself with a smile. Yet he knows how to act responsibly when the situation calls for it. I guess that's what he's been doing to me. He's helping me to grow up yet like he said his friend Lee use to put it with keeping your 'youthful' self. But I guess I'm not the only one that's been infected by the blonds ways. Rogue has defiantly been changing along with the way me and her hold each other's respect.
Me and her have never really seen eye to eye since we had first met each other. You could say that we had been like the wind and earth in some ways. We had never really tried to relate to each other. It's like we never had a reason to even bother to try to learn anything about the other. Yet all it had taken was for him to just walk into our lives to completely turn everything upside down. He had thrown everyone in loops with the way he acted. Yet he had pulled us both into his soul with his enchanting ways. Even if he does deny it; and caused us to grow together. I guess it's for the best too. Rogue I guess has grown to be the best friend I always wanted. Even if she does do things in more drastic ways. Ways that before I had question yet now I can see the reason behind them. Mostly cause of the sheer effectiveness that Naruto had showed us. I guess that he has helped me no only mature but also how to let myself be…well I guess myself. Let's me speak my mind without having to worry about him seeing me differently.
Grabbing my discarded pencil and paper I scribble one line only. Come back soon… Who knows, we all have powers that to others can't be possible. Maybe this message will get to him if not then I guess I'll just do what he would approve of. Leave him a bunch of voicemails that he'll defiantly call back. Yeah that sounds just like something he would do. Guess he does rub off on me. After all I just can't sit back and just wait.
Naruto P.O.V, High above on one of the many branches of the surrounding forest
These demons are defiantly…eccentric in their attempts to run me down. I can honestly say that they would give Orochimaru a run for his money in being insane. After making my way through the deeper forested areas I had almost made it near the border without any incidents'. Till when I stopped moving…the damn things came at me at full force. I almost fell apart right there. Just from the pressure exerted from these demons. The way I could see them so clearly…feel their icy breath. Their hold around my neck. I still have to lean against the trunk of this tree to catch my breath. The worst part wasn't the physical pain I had actually felt. It was the exhausting mental pain that always accompanies each visit. It always has been…
"Kit stop resisting my chakra. I know you have some pride but this isn't the time to take after me besides; I thought you took down the barriers" I hear Kyuubi call out in annoyance yet this is news to me
"I'm not resisting you blasted fox. You know as well as I do that I took those barriers down since I was fourteen. I thought you were messing with me." I respond in an equally annoyed tone but we both know that or irritation isn't with each other but the blasted curse.
"Damn it" I hear the fox curse as I feel him flooding his chakra around the cage that holds him in. The chakra was defiantly able to spread yet by the time it reached were Kyu was sending it the damn chakra was diluted. This was defiantly bad news…it was rare that this ever occurred. The only times that this happened was during most of my battles with Sasuke, Orochimaru and Akatsuki. Though at those times it was because of the chakra having to be spread to heal my wounds.
"Wait up Kyuubi" I call out as I make him slow down his chakra flow. I slowly take a deep breath and close my eyes. I slowly feel out for my chakra in the spot that it usually resides in. Taking a hold on my chakra I slowly begin to release it from its confinement and add it to Kyuubi's to help his healing qualities. This time around I only feel a slight amount of pain. But what shakes me is the other presence that I feel that is attached to my chakra. But just as I am about to speak the presence all but vanishes…leaving me wondering.
"Kyu please tell me you felt that too" I ask as I try to find the presence once again. As far as I know no one else inhabits my body other than Kyu. Not since my parents soul fractures had left me all those years ago.
"Yeah I felt it. Kind of hard to when I'm the only one suppose to be in here. It felt very strange…yet familiar. But much colder…" I hear the fox mumble onto himself.
"So care to share with me?" I ask with an annoyed tone as I wait impatiently for an answer. The idiot could have an answer to my problem and he's keeping it to himself.
"It's nothing trust me. I doubt I would have missed anything of that caliber, besides if you don't know what's in your body now then neither do I. So if you're looking for an answer…I'm sorry but I got nothing" I hear the fox respond within his confinement.
"Fine then. Did you find anything on your little hunt through my mind?" I ask hoping for some real answers this time. Before whatever is happening to me continues to grow in power.
"Nothing but memories and dreams floating around" was my response from the demonic being within me
"That's it?" I ask as I was hoping for more…this curse…demon…plaque whatever you want to call it has gone on for far too long. And in the end we are coming up with bull shit outcomes…even after all of our efforts.
"I'm sorry kid but there is no way for me to trace it like this. All your conflicting emotions have my senses going out of control. It's getting harder for me to control my power. And you can sense it too can you…your power becoming more recessive to your touch." Called out Kyuubi as I felt him begin to stir in his cage. Damn it I knew this would happen with my emotions…the one time I need the control that I've attained over the years only to fail me now.
"Yeah ever since this morning…I feel it getting farther away from me. Becoming more hostile towards my attempts at reining it in. Though I had thought that it was just my state that was putting my readings off." I answer as I take another deep breath in an attempt to calm myself. Why was it that in all my years as being a shinobi…being a Hokage nothing like this has ever happened before? Never to have dealt with this... I have no way of knowing how to comprehend these actions…the retaliations.
"Kit I'm not sure how much more time we have before this becomes a danger to your body. And I know you have already thought that you're a danger but kid listen to me if this continues and we don't have control over our chakras. Every single thing along with us is screwed.
"So what are we suppose to do? Go on the offensive? We've done that already fox!" I call out as I feel my chakra begin to gather even though I feel the pain I care very little about it now. How were we supposed to fight this if we don't know what we are fighting? Every single opponent that I've had I had at least known they were real…that I would be able to hurt them if the need came to it.
"I know we have gaki! You think I'm an idiot? We've done that but were going to try this time without your emotions. I know you hate being like that but it's the only way to track this down. I need you to kill all your emotions even if it's just for a few seconds that's all we need." I hear the fox call out. To kill your emotions is something that very few actually are able to do. Shinobi principles from the beginning were supposed to be derived from that. And I have always loathed it yet at the same time enjoyed its unique qualities. I am one of those few that have been able to achieve in killing your emotions even if I did achieve it through an accident. The want of wanting to feel nothing-the escape from the pain I felt- left me like that. Till I learned to control it at will. But even then I hate using it to feel nothing…to feel no compassion or love is like being dead. A hollow husk I suppose but one with purpose. But as much as I hated to feel like that I knew I had very little choice but to go through with it. I had to…no need to end this now.
"When?" was all I asked he knew that I would go through with it…he knew how much I needed to be free from this curse. He himself had probably needed it too.
"Soon if possible we'll do it tomorrow night" was Kyuubi's reply after a moment to gather his thoughts. But why wait I could do it right now…
"Why wait?" I voiced my opinion this plan could work there was no need to wait.
"We need to wait for our chakra to replenish itself to its highest quantity. And we need you to be fully rested" answered the fox I guess that he made sense. I was getting far too ahead of everything. I needed to calm down because I knew that he was right my body was in pain and if we did it right now without any preparation. Well it could end in pain and agony.
"I guess I have no choice. I'll just make camp here" I called out and felt him nod before he began to converge a part of his chakra with my own as he rested. Deciding that it was time for me to rest as well I looked towards the sky and saw that light was already leaving. Dropping from the tree branch I sit against the tree trunk as I pull protein bars and a bottle of water from my back pack and began eating them. But I still had trouble keeping myself still. I had almost ended this misery. That after all of this suffering to finally get a chance at ending all of this…to end the resurfacing pain…the agony. And I would take it because I won't just sit back and let this break apart my life. No I will shatter it.
Rogues P.O.V., the institutes hallways
It's already getting darker outside and many of the others are getting ready for bed. Yet I can't will myself to sleep. To feel this emptiness…an emptiness that I know can be filled only by one person. How is it that one boy can get under my skin to cause me to miss him so much. "To make everything else pale in comparison" I mumble to myself as I head down the hall way without any destination. Yet at the same time I know that I want him back to have him near me. To help ease the worry I have for him. To be able to touch him and hear his voice. To have him say he's okay.
He told me that he would be okay…that he would be safe. And I believe him. But I still worry. The way he moved wasn't like him as if he was struggling. And that is not the way he is…he's always so sure of what he's doing. Probably why so many of the recruits trust him and actually give him their attention. That or the way he actually trains them…I swear he would fit in perfectly in the army. Then again the blond idiot has already led his. Yet no matter how much that he has gone through in his old life he still has it in him to smile. Because I know that most people would had broken down long ago. From the bits and pieces of his life that he has shared I can tell that he has had to make decisions that never should have been decided by someone at his age. This is why I'm probably worried and angry that even though he's done so much he still has to go through what's going on now.
"If only I could help more" I whisper to myself as I make a turn to the right. I truly do wish I could…I feel useless as I just watch the dreary days pass on by. Waiting to see if he'll return or see the night take its place and hope that he will return by the time I open my eyes. And these are things that I don't want to do…things that I am beginning to resent. Even though he had continued to say that just the mere thought of us would help him. That is just something that I can do but I want to do more. And I can tell that Kitty can barely put up with that thought.
"Rogue…" I hear a familiar voice call out from down the hall way and turn to see Kitty standing across from me.
"Hey Kitty" I respond as I see that she has an arm wrapped around her waist as if to keep herself together. "You hear anything from him?"
"No he won't pick up his phone again" she answers my question before she lets out a sigh "Though I left him a few voicemails…" she adds as an after thought
"You know I'm beginning to think he's using this as an excuse to avoid us" I call out hoping to lift up our moods as I walk up to her and lean on the wall.
"Yeah I know what you mean" she adds with a small smile as she leans against the opposite wall and continues "Heck maybe he's out there with some other girls"
"Well if he is I guess we could always neuter him when he gets back" I add with small grin but burst out laughing with her a moment latter. I guess Kitty has grown on me since I first met her enough that she is probably my closest friend. Though our laughing is cut short as we here a scream from Ororo's room. Nodding to each other we rush down the hall way and towards her room. 'What else can go wrong?" I ask myself as Kitty phases us through the door…
Naruto P.O.V. Next day; mid afternoon
I finally hope that today will bring an end to this madness. To be set free of all this pain and torture. I have to return now…to make sure that nothing has happened back home. Because someone has already made it through the security. Though I only wish I had not shattered the seals around the institute. The seals themselves are still intact but with the time I stayed there and the attack that occurred Kyuubi's chakra had spread and disabled them. Though I can only hold myself responsible…if only I had held more control over myself.
"Forget about it kid, remember shit happens. So just deal with it" I hear Kyu tell me as he continues to prod through my mind for any hostile moves.
"I can't till I know that they're safe" I answer as I look at my surroundings. This would be a perfect place to end it all. I had just happened to run across it. It was a big open field that oddly enough was bare of any foliage.
"You mean the girls right?" asked the fox even though he already knew the answer
"Yes…along with the others" I answer the question nonetheless
"You know that they can take care of themselves. And you know that those teachers of theirs won't let them get hurt. So calm down" the fox continued as he tried to reason with me
"It still doesn't matter…I need to get back" I respond. I know that he's just trying to get me to loosen up before we begin with everything. But I can't fully bring myself to do this. Even though I have struggled to keep my thoughts from returning-even if it's to stop the need- I can't help but be on edge. I've listened to all the voicemails from Kitty and the ones Rogue sent me last night. And the need to be near them burns even hotter than before. Leaving me with an unquenchable thirst…to feel the need of being near them…to be able to inhale their scent… their taste…god damn it. He didn't…
"Kid you need to focus…I can't have you give into your romantic feelings or have you give into your anger" I hear the fox begin to come up with his excuses as he knows I know about his actions.
"Kyuubi do I even want to know if I'm right?" I ask as I begin to feel my anger begin to pool underneath the surface of my skin.
"I think it's best if we forget about it" answers the damn kitsune but I know better than to let it slide. I look into the sky and see that I should have enough time to check things out. Slowly I close my eyes as I let myself drift into my mindscape and the last thing I hear is the fox curse.
Naruto's mindscape, Naruto's P.O.V
I slowly open my eyes and see that I'm in front of the blasted fox's prison. Looking into the darkness of his confinement I can't see him anywhere.
"You idiot get out here" I order as I begin to feel impatient with his game
"I guess I'll deal with it now" I hear the fox give in as he sends some of his chakra out to form a smaller replica of himself so I he can accompany me. Though as soon as he's done I strike out and wrap my hands around his replica throat knowing that he's pretty much in it now.
"You bastard what did you do now?" I hiss out as I tighten my grip around my hold and only release it after I have enough
"Nothing much…" begins the Kyu casually though stops short in his lie as I begin to move back for his throat. "Well now that I think of it maybe I did"
"Take me now Kyuubi" I order in a hard tone. Giving in the fox wraps us in his chakra before transporting us into a door less room that has dimmed lights surrounding us. This was a unique room in my mind…one that was possibly the most important one to me. One that wasn't reachable by anyone but myself, Kyu and whoever we wished to bring here. The reason for that would be because unlike the other rooms and corridors in this labyrinth those were here since my birth…this one was created. Created to house what so far in my life could be my greatest possession.
"Kyuubi you fool" I whisper out as I move to the center of the room. In the center of the room there are four glowing orbs-the size of my rasengan-each one glowing differently and representing a person. The orbs as if having minds of their own begin to encircle my outstretched right arm. The one closest to my arm being a glowing white at the center only to be surrounded by darkness with cracks of crimson running from the edges of the white to the ends of the darkness. This one being a representation of myself. The other three being far much less chaotic and being so much purer than my own. The next one being a combination of a light purple at the center that is surrounded by violet and with every pulse that it gave I could feel warmth-Ino. These were originally the only two that were to reside here. Yet now joining the two were one that had a sky blue center and an ocean blue surrounding it and with every pulse it gave off happiness-Kitty. And the final one being one with an emerald green that is surrounded by a forest green that pulsed life-Rogue.
"Why?" I ask in a sharp tone as I turn to look at the fox that stood back. These orbs weren't for show they were fragments of our souls. A representation of the bonds I held with each of the girls. But they could only be achieved if the others soul wished for it. It brought certain other qualities such as the closeness of each one of us held with each other. Letting us become much more in tuned to each other on a whole different level. But also lets us feel each other's distress.
"To save you from your own self loathing kit" answered the aged demon as he stared into my eyes "Let it go kid it wasn't your fault"
"Of course it was Kyuubi… I dragged her into it. If it wasn't for me she could had survived" I whisper as I stare at the violet orb as it nears my face. Even though I could try to put the past behind me her death is something I will never forgive myself for."Not a single day goes by that I don't remember her" I add
"I know" I hear the fox respond. He would even though I try to hide it I can still see some of the pain in my eyes. Though most of the people don't see it I know he does and so do the girls.
"Can they feel what's happening now?" I askquickly as I look at their orbs
"No I'm blocking it right now" he answered me. That was good they didn't need to feel this pain "Though they can usually know when you're hiding something"
"Explains why they can see right through everything I do" I mumble. Along with why we had bonded so fast these fragments helped that.
"You still pissed?" asked the demon casually as he laid down on the ground.
I slowly shake my head as a no. If what Kyu said was right about their souls wanting it then I guess I couldn't completely blame him. "You still should had asked"
"I was bored and was getting tired of you struggling with your choice. Beside I knew you liked them both so yeah"
"Idiot…How long has it been this way?" I ask as I begin to move away from the center
"Since you got back from last summer break" answered the damn fox with a grin
"Teme…should had told me" I shoot back…I hadn't been here in a while. Though before we can continue we feel an icy embrace. Sighing I give him a nod. Seems that the curse couldn't wait. Slowly he pulls his chakra around us as he takes us back into the corridors.
"No need to waste time" he explains as I give him questioning look as why not take us to the cage. "It's your turn"
Sighing I begin to tear away the emotions within me. The very thing that has held us back from our hunt. To take away my love and happiness are the hardest after being in the room. But after struggling for five minutes I finally am able to achieve the form I wanted. One that is devoid of life. "Hurry up and help fox" I call out in a monotone voice
"God no matter how many times I hear it-that voice creeps me out" voices out the fox as he takes point. But I can't help but agree with him. But putting that aside I let my senses reach out now that they are undiluted. And I can faintly feel the presence from before along with the cold aura of the phantoms. Without wasting a moment Kyuubi takes us there… leaving us in a dark room. One that I have never seen before. Returning back to normal I ask "Have you been here fox?"
"Didn't even know this was here" was the fox's intelligent reply "So what are we blowing up?"
"As soon as we find out what the heck is in here to cause it. Then we can blow that up" I answer as with a grin and feel the room get colder. Seems like I'm in the right place. "We can feel you in here. I didn't know I was piggybacking another fragmented soul than the ones I'm currently aware of." I call out
"Of course you wouldn't- after all you don't have to worry about any pain" calls out a voice that puts me on edge. It was hard yet held that childlike innocence
"So you're the one that makes it hurt, huh?" I ask as I search for the source of the voice but I can't find it
"Figures that you would say that" adds the voice before it let out a child like laugh
"Well you aren't helping much" answers Kyu as he looks around
"Well I am just this time it benefits me more" calls out the voice and I can almost feel the grin on its face.
"Just show yourself already" I argue as I tire of the game as I will the room to begin to become brighter. My mind my rules.
"Why if you already know who I am" retorts the childish voice before I see an outline of my enemy in front of myself. Before the room begins to light up.
"I knew you were fucked up kit" adds Kyuubi as we see the one that has caused the pain. Though I highly doubted it would be anything like this. Because standing before me is…myself. Myself at the age of ten. Along with him being in a torn up crimson shirt and baggy pants. Though he seems to be much paler with dark rings under his eyes. Though his eyes are what had shocked me the most because they were cold. Eyes that I didn't have at that age.
"Ironic isn't it?" it asked me as his voice lost all playfulness "That I'm the one causing the pain instead of the other way around."
"What exactly do you mean by that?" asked Kyu as he saw I still couldn't move
"Let me tell you exactly who I am. I am part of Naruto Namikaze a part that suffers because of him. One that suffers so that he can keep going. You could simply call me a sacrificial pawn" the replica of myself answered the fox "Or did you think dear old Kyuubi did all the healing?"
"Then why are you doing this?" I ask as I get over the shock. It was true one of the things that had kept me going was Kyu's healing factor that not just healed me physically but also mentally.
"I got tired of it all" was his answer as he gave me a hollow smile "Why should I be the only one made to suffer? Though I never was able to get this far all these years. Especially since Ino started to chain my attempts down even though she didn't know it. Till I found out how to control his power. Though messing with your control helps too" it ended with looking at Kyuubi
"Figures that this would happen" I mumble to myself as I meet eye to eye with him and ask "So why keep it going this long?"
"Just for fun. I mean I suffered this long why not you?" was his answer before he let out a laugh before continuing "So you scared?"
"No…not really" I answer with a smile just to tick him off. I guess it worked as I saw him frown before raising his right hand towards Kyu before the fox disappeared
"What did you do" I demand as I glare back at him
"Oh just sent him back to that cage of his. After all I might need him to end you" he respond casually
"You can stop it here. I'll take your burden away" I call out and I would
"Oh wow. But no I think I like my way better" answered my crazed replica as we both began to phase out. And I knew the real hell would begin now as I left my mind.
Open field, Naruto P.O.V
Opening my eyes I saw that it was already turning dark and night had just about arrived. I quickly tried to make contact with the fox but I felt nothing not even his chakra. Though I knew that this was the end of this agony. To survive this was all I needed.
"Though I wonder…will you?" spoke out the demented replicas voice as I see him phase in front of me in a red pulse.
"You should know…if you're me then you know I won't give up" I answer as I begin to let my instincts loose
"Hahaha I guess so huh?" it agreed as he begins to smile in a way that made me remember Sasuke after he left for the snake. "Though I wonder who will have the stronger will. Though I suppose I could have a little fun first" he called out before four shadowy figures rose from the ground in front of him. Until before him stood the four ANBU brothers before they all charged at me at blinding speed.
"You should know something…" I begin before I sidestep one and deliver a bone crushing blow to the back of his head. Before I deliver a round house kick to the others neck. And am pleased when they drop dead before vanishing like clones. Though I have to stop my rejoice as I feel one coming from behind me with his blade and the other from in front. Acting quickly I take out a kunai for each hand and just as they are about to make contact a twist at an angle so the blades will pass by. And before they can react I stab each in the head causing them to join their brothers. Raising my head I finish "I'm sick of your game"
"Well I guess that's what I get for sending them against the Rokudaime Hokage. We're just too good." Called out the replica as he shook his head before he began to laugh
"You know if you weren't insane and hell-bent on ending me; I would say that you were acting like a little brother" I told him as I dropped my cold tone for just a second. The damn clone or soul fragment whatever it was acted to childish for me to keep it up.
"Well being this way is your fault you know" he answered me with a frown "But that's okay cause it's going to be fun ending you"
"And there went the childish innocence once again" I tell myself as I ready myself as I wait for him move. And I don't have to wait long before he appears before me aiming a fist at my face. Acting quickly I grab it before I use it to swing him into the air. Then quickly appear above him as I deliver a kick onto his back that sends him spiraling down.
Landing on the ground I worry at the way he was able to move for him to be able to use the first level. But am brought out of my thoughts as I had to avoid a flurry of punches before I am allowed to even get a chance to deliver my own. But stay on my guard. There's no doubt the damn idiot was able to use the first stage of the bloodline if he were able to move without leaving a trail. Though just as I come to that conclusion I feel something collide with my head as I'm sent to the side. 'Damn it…blind sided me' I think as I quickly regain my footing and just in time to counter with a strike that broke through and land on his torso.
"Give up you may be cruel and cold. No to mention insane but you can't take me on even when I'm in this state." I call out as I gather chakra for the rasengan. But am shocked to see it slowly fall apart. Looking back at him with a glare I hear him chuckle.
"I guess your right this form is far too weak to deal with you. So it a good thing that I have so much insurance on this fight. And just forget about using your chakra. You may have the experience but I have had years to manipulate your control" he calls out with a twisted smile as crimson chakra slowly begins to bubble around him and forms the shroud.
I quickly try to gather chakra but I only feel it trickle trough as if it were blocked by a dam and with this amount I wouldn't have time to form a half decent jutsu.
"What's wrong? Struggling?" called out the dumbass as he was up to three tails. I really didn't have much of a choice now and I couldn't let him gather any more tails. Though I bet Kyu was struggling for control. Acting quickly I begin to use the first level of my bloodline to move around him and land as many blows as possible but they were all either blocked or waved off by his tails. Even though I was able to push him back I knew this would be hell. "Oh what's wrong need a hand?" he taunted with his stupid joke as he began chakra branching and caught me in the clawed hand. Though he wasn't done yet as he tightened his hold before he slammed me down on the cold ground. Leaving web like cracks around me from the force. "So you scared yet?"
"Fuck…you" I struggle to say as that blow knocked the wind out of me along with blood. But before I could say anything more I was thrown across the field before he appeared beside me and hit me towards the opposite side. Though I was able to regain some balance and on my feet before I had to drop on my knees from the pain.
"Maybe I do have too much of an advantage" I heard him think out loud "Naw after all preparation is the shinobi's way. Well that and don't let the enemy get any advantage"
As I listened to his ramblings I waited for my injuries to heal but they were taking far too long and I knew the idiot would be on the offensive soon enough. Though there wasn't much of a choice or too many options. Giving it one more try I begin to gather chakra in my hand and begin to swirl it. Deciding to take my chance I flash forward and yell out "Shut up you damn fucker! Rasengan!" Seeing my only opening I keep up my assault as I bombard him with devastating punches and kicks. Though I am soon thrown back and I let out a string of curses as I see that all his wounds are already healed. That rasengan was weak but it still should have done some more damage. I guess I know why Iwa hated the Namikaze for our speed along with the power of a jinchuurki. I guess I know why people get annoyed when fighting me. "And being in this weakened state isn't helping"
"Well that's too bad I guess you really are done" mumbles my assassin as he steps in front of me and picks me up with his chakra tail by the neck. "I wonder what'll happen to me after I kill you. Well only one way to find out. Though I want to ask you one final question. Are you scared now?"
"You keep saying you're me…you should know the answer. No" I whisper as I choke at the pressure he puts on his grip.
"Well that's your choice to be stubborn till the end. Well it's been nice knowing you" he told me as he used his one of his tails to pierce my left leg and the other my right side. "Actually for being you and putting up with everything. No it hasn't" And with that he released my neck only to pierce my torso.
Is this how it was suppose to end to let it all fall apart and settle in the dust? Along with him holding onto so many factors. I'll give him that he planned everything perfectly from manipulating my sources of power to causing me to be physically weak from exhaustion. I didn't want it to end like this. "I swore to return" I mumble as I struggle against the tails but I can tell that I'm just making it worse as I felt more pain. Pain…is that what the bastard keeps talking about. If I'm afraid of pain of him his actions. I don't know…I was sure that I wasn't but now he was taking everything. Fear is that what he was trying to achieve…to make me feel all that he's endured or was it just his allusion of revenge. I just know I was letting them down. And even though I was struggling and pushing for power I still couldn't…
"It's okay Naruto it almost over…even if you say you're not afraid" he taunted me but I cared very little, it just brought up more memories…even if they were painful…Ino
Flash back Naruto age16 Normal P.O.V.
"There's no reason to be afraid Naru-kun; I'm right here" comforted Ino as she hugged the taller blond from behind as they finished session in helping the ramen loving idiot's memories.
"I told you I'm not afraid Ino-chan" responded the Hokage bound ninja as he enjoyed her embrace
"You know its okay for you to be afraid…you don't have to be the support for everyone all the time" she answered as she had seen the look in his eyes.
"I suppose so, huh? But don't worry this won't keep me down for long" responded Naruto with a grin
"I know it won't…just don't try to hide your feelings from me, okay?" asked the teenage girl with a smile
"Well I guess there is one thing" responded the Kyuubi's host with a sheepish look
"And that is?" asked the girl as she rested her head on his shoulder
"I'm afraid of…"
End Flash Back, Naruto's P.O.V
"Huh? What was that?" I heard the idiot ask me if he's me then why doesn't he know I don't like repeating myself. "Say it louder" This bastard really was getting on my nerves.
I slowly raise my head to meet him face to face and say "I'm afraid…" and see him give me that demented smile "But not of you…not my past" I continue as I see him get pissed "I'm afraid of not being able to live a life I want…a life I'm not willing to give up yet"
"Bastard" I hear him mumble just as he was about to strike me but stops short as he finally feels it and looks at my hand.
"Seems you can only manipulate my chakra for a limited amount of time" I add as I continue to take back the chakra he took mine and Kyuubi's. "I wonder how Kyu will respond."
"How I held all the power…You were half dead?" He continues to ask as he tries to get away only for me to hold him in place
"I just have a better reason to live for…three actually. So sorry I won't be going anywhere today" I answer with a grin as I pump out my chakra that surrounds us and begin to send it towards my palm. "You know I am sorry for everything you endured. Your pain was suppose be ours but I let you take it all. So now I'll take it all on my shoulder. But now I have to end it." I tell him as I pull my hand back before I attack "Rasengan" as it causes him to phase in and out till he is reduced to nothing more than a small amount of glowing white smoke that I gather in my hand till it disappears.
"Did you do it?" I ask out loud hoping that he can hear me as I fall onto one knee
"Yeah damn bastard is back with the rest of your soul" I hear Kyuubi answer
"Good you lazy bastard…make yourself useful" I add with a smile as I stand back up after seeing that the power surge at the end healed up my major wounds.
"Hey I was held against my will and I held back the other tails still" I hear him argue
"Yeah well why didn't you hold back the others too and this could had been over right away" I argue "For a second there I thought I was done for"
"Whatever shits done so let's get on with our day" As he says that I look to see that the sun is in the sky but it's still pretty early maybe five or six in the morning and I could really use a bed.
"Hey Kyu you thinking what I'm thinking?" I ask as I give him a foxy style smile after having gone through that shit I should be allowed to have some fun again.
"If it includes beating you till you're out cold then yes." He answered me "Besides you won't make it with the chakra you have now. It's like what two three hours if you push yourself"
"Give me some chakra then" I argue he had a point I wouldn't make it with my own chakra between exhaustion and the fight I was crap "You owe me anyway for the stunt you pulled with the bonds"
"Fine take it but if you tear your muscles apart I am not healing them" he complains as I feel myself surrounded by his chakra and quickly grab my discarded bag with my supplies and sealed bike.
"That's okay your chakra will do it for you" I shoot back as I rocket off using my bloodline to its fullest.
Institute, Naruto's balcony, Naruto's P.O.V.
I land with a thud on my balcony and I guess Kyu was right about the muscles tearing but I could already feel them beginning to heal by the time I tried moving. Besides my healing had gone back to normal it shouldn't be much longer now. Though it was worth it I couldn't wait not now that I know I can be near them again. And I'll be damned if I let any more time slip on by. Catching my breath I force some chakra into the balconies lock so it will open and after a moment it does. Slowly stand up before I limp my way to my bed and drop my bag causing a small thump causing me to hear a groan. Though with my worn out state I hadn't noticed the two bodies that had already occupied my bed.
"Ignore the perverted thoughts Namikaze" I say to myself playfully as I can't help but grin at seeing the two of them. 'Shit the blood' I think to myself as I remember my Jounin cloths were all torn up and covered in blood stains. I slowly try to make over to my closet while trying to make as little noise as possible. Though as I turn I slip on one of the girls pants that they had left on the floor when changing.
'Shit,shit,shit,shit,shit'is the manta I keep repeating in my head as I know that I would wake the girls as I'm falling back towards the bed. Glad that they kept some space between them I twist slightly so that I'll land without hurting them. And as soon as I land it's almost instantaneous as I feel them jolt awake before letting out a small gasp and I find myself with two kunai being aimed at Naruto Jr.
"Um…I see you found he hidden kunai. Sorry for waking you up" I offer as I put my hand behind my neck with a sheepish smile. Though worry when I don't get a response and sit up to remove the threatening objects and as soon as I throw them a safe distance I get tackled back down. Seems they finally got over the initial shock of me being actually there.
"You idiot do you have any idea how worried we've been?" I hear Rogue yell at me as she buries her face against my neck.
"And without a word from you…were you trying to get us ticked off?" I was wondering when she would join in as she holds onto me tighter. And I just can't hold it in anymore as I let out a laugh and struggle to compose myself.
"Hey Rogue I think he went mad" I hear Kitty whisper as if I wasn't even there and I finally pull myself together.
"I'm sorry…it's just that I'm just glad to be back" I begin as I hold them closer "And I'm sorry for making you worry and not calling back it's just that things were hectic to say the least. And at time I did feel that I was mad"
"So you're good now, right?" Rogue asks me and holds onto me as if I'll disappear though the bonds would explain why they were reacting so strongly. Something I'll have to explain latter to them.
"Yeah everything is good." I answer "I swore I would be back didn't I?"
"Yeah just took your sweet time in getting back, huh?" Shoots Kitty with a smile that made me now it was worth going through hell
"Not on purpose though" I answer with a small smile "But I'm back and I don't intend to leave for a while. At least not without the both of you." I finish with a chuckle and feel Charles trying to enter my mind
'I see you have finally returned' I hear him call out in a polite tone
'I guess so…sorry for the wait. Just needed time' I explain calmly
'It's alright just glad to have you back, Naruto. And welcome home" he adds
'It's good to be back. It really is' I respond as I lay in the embrace of the two most important people in my life and knowing that the third is watching down on me. This was my purpose to keep on living…to be able to enjoy moments like these. And there worth it.
KN: Well that should be enough of the deepness for now. Sorry if some of you didn't like it but most of the reviews and messages showed that most people liked it. And I wanted to get my own idea out there. So yeah. As for the music that going to stay but not constantly. Just every now and then or when I feel like it. Besides most people seem to enjoy it and I mostly add it for respect of the artist. Seriously when typing this out I have to listen to something. Oh yeah and NOTHING IS ABANDONED. So leave me questions or send me a message asking it. Or just leave a review come-on there my only pay. Give a guy a break. Oh yeah and I'll try to get more done. Should pick up during the winter months though don't got much to do then. Well I might go hunt Bigfoot or something. So leave a review or something. Now time for an hour of sleep then go make up with those two damn girls. Hopefully they don't go for the arm. No where I leave my teddy. See ya!