zervus.
and again i managed to finish another chapter. don't ask me how but i've written this within only two days and spent one day prove-reading.
what do i present you today: the return from Wave. you could call this thing a part filler because i wanted to do a few things and just get them out of the way. this chapter might be a bit boring and long-winded but there are a few hints on things that are really important in later chapters.
Poll Result: seems like the majority wants Naruto exclusive to Hinata. the poll's still open and again everyone has one vote per chapter.
Important: just to warn you, from now on i'm going to do some major twists in the plot and officially move away from canon. i already did that but from now on the changes will be major. also i warn those people who like the canon setup of the Hyuuga clan: LEAVE AT ONCE! this is the setup chapter for some Hyuuga-bashing. next chapter a few of them will get what they deserved for a long time.
Disclaimer: get away from me you god damn lawyers! Sue each other if you have to sue someone! ( faaaaaaar away at this time: lawyer1, "I SUE YOU!" lawyer2, "WTF?!")
Note: i added the current status for each story to my profile. check it if you want to know how far into the next chapter i am.
now you have read enough unimportant stuff and i give you what you came for.
ΩΩΩΩ
The Hokage along with a squad of ANBU stood at the southern village gate to Konoha. Two days prior Pakkun had entered the Hokage office and handed in a full report for the mission to Wave. To say Sarutobi was shocked didn't even scratch the surface. Not only had Team 10 picked up a new ally, Team 7 and 8 were returning with TWO new... allies, one of them being the infamous Momochi Zabuza, hence the ANBU squad.
Sarutobi was pulled out of his thoughts as several points appeared on the horizon and quickly closed in. Sarutobi smiled slightly only to have that smile turn into a frown. Kakashi seemed to be carrying someone on his back and all seemed to be in a great hurry. His assumptions were verified as Kakashi rushed past them followed by Sakura, Hinata, Naruto, two foxes and another girl with long black hair. The black hair and the two swords sticking out from behind Kakashi were a perfect giveaway as to who was being carried. Kurenai and the rest stopped in front of the Kage, all seemingly slightly winded.
"Team... 8 and 7 reporting back... Hokage-sama," breathed Kurenai, trying to get her heartbeat back under control. "What happened Kurenai?" "A good three hours from here Akuma started to shake violently before dropping to the ground, rapidly coughing up blood. We were unable to decipher what was happening to him so we made haste back here to get him to the hospital ASAP." "What do you think is happening to him?" "Due to his... unique heritage I don't dare to make any assumption." The Hokage nodded before turning to the rest, "You may take your leave; Zabuza-san, I expect you at my office in one hour sharp. ANBU, make sure our... guest doesn't do anything stupid." A collective "HAI" sounded before everyone walked into the village. The Hokage puffed his pipe one last time before he Shunshined to the hospital.
Ω
In the hospital Kakashi had just handed over the still blood coughing Akuma to the active doctor, who wasted no time in carting the teen off into the ER. "Sensei," whispered Sakura while she looked at the door to the ER, "What are his chances?" Kakashi, too worried to even take out his favorite literature, had a dark look in his visible eye, "Honestly, I have no idea Sakura. I know that Dr. Kishimoto will do everything in his power to save Akuma but with the blood loss and his background I don't know what can be done."
Suddenly a kunai whizzed past him and would have at least cut his cheek if the Jounin hadn't reacted on instinct and leaned slightly to the side. He looked up to see Naruto standing between Kyuu and Maki, his arm still held like he had just let go of the knife. "Don't say stuff like that sensei," growled Naruto, his eyes briefly flashing red, "He WILL pull through, don't you dare question that."
Hinata lay a calming hand on Naruto's arm, "Please calm down. We all are worried but please no violence." Naruto looked back at her, his eyes softening slightly, "You're right; sorry sensei." "Don't sweat it Naruto." "But next time don't react so harshly," sounded a new voice from down the hallway. All five turned around to see the Third walk towards them, his eyes fixed on Naruto. "I know that you see him as a close friend but I doubt Akuma would support you harming your sensei." Naruto dropped into the next chair that was around and sighed deeply, "I know old man. I just refuse to even consider that Akuma can't make it."
Sarutobi let his eyes travel over the other Genin present and noticed that all of them seemed rather winded. "You should head home and get some rest. There is no need for you all to stay here." "But...," started Sakura only to have Haku stop her by a hand on her shoulder. "Sakura-san, Hokage-sama is right. Akuma-san wouldn't want us to worry about him so much that it would be unhealthy for us." "But...." "The young woman is right Sakura," said the Third while smiling at the bubble gum haired kunoichi, "Akuma wouldn't want you to get hospitalized yourself because of him." Sakura sighed in defeat, slowly accepting that she couldn't do anything in the matter.
The Hokage turned his attention from Sakura to Haku which in turn caused the girl to tense up. "I gather that you're Zabuza's apprentice?" "Hai Hokage-sama," said Haku while bowing her head. "No need for such formalities. Naruto, Hinata, Sakura, please show her around. I will call for her when needed." "Come on Haku," shouted the blond, "Let's show you something truly remarkable!" Not waiting for anyone to react, Naruto grabbed Hinata's and Haku's wrists and rushed off, the two girls barely able to keep up with him. Sakura followed the three at a slower pace, knowing full well where Naruto would take the two other girls.
After the teens were gone the Third turned to Kakashi, "Tell me." "I'm sure Kurenai told you most of it already. What she probably didn't tell you is the fact that we already forced a total of three Blood Pills down Akuma's throat when he was running low on blood." "Three?!" The Hokage was shocked to say the least. After all, three Blood Pills meant that Akuma had lost at least twice the amount of blood a person his size had.
Suddenly the doors to the ER opened and Dr. Kishimoto walked towards the Hokage, wiping a thin layer of sweat from his forehead. He was a slightly round man with a developing bald head, maybe around forty but you could tell from the way he held himself that he still had it in him if needed. Also one should note that he was the only doctor the Third entrusted Naruto to. "Kishimoto, what can you tell me?" "Well Hokage-sama, the boy sure is lucky to still be alive. Had he been fed one more Blood Pill he might have died." "Nani," shouted Kakashi, astonished by the doctor's words.
"You see, because we had so little information on what had been done already we checked his basics; blood pressure, blood level, brain activity and such. We soon noticed that his blood level was at the minimum a human being would need to survive. Due to the fact that Blood Pills seemed to be rejected by his system we tried a direct blood transfer. But soon after we started the procedure he once more started to cough up blood while shaking violently. We stopped he transfer and noticed that after he had coughed up the amount of blood we transferred into him he stopped and settle down a bit."
"So, his body is running on the minimum blood it needs right now and anything more will be excreted?" "Hai Hokage-sama. What should be noted as well is that while checking him over we noticed that some of his organs seemed to be... vibrating for the lack of a better term." "Vibrating," asked Kakashi, knowing that this was NOT normal for anything in any human body. "Yes Kakashi, vibrating. This also seems to be the cause for his shaking."
"Do you know what could be the cause of this?" "Sadly no Hokage-sama. Nothing we know about creates those symptoms." "Will he recover?" "I dare say that it depends on him. If he has the will he will pull through but if he gives up...." "Thank you for your honesty Kishimoto." "No problem Hokage-sama." "Can he be visited," asked Kakashi, knowing that he would be chewed out by several people if he didn't have the answer when asked. "Not today but tomorrow he might be stable enough although I can't tell when he will wake up."
Dr. Kishimoto bowed shortly before he left Kakashi and the Third alone. The Third turned around and looked at Kakashi, "You better tell them that Akuma can be visited from tomorrow on." Kakashi simply nodded before he Shunshined away. The old man took a deep drag on his pipe, his eyes closed to calm down. 'This year's rookies are one big pain to deal with.'
Ω
Hinata, Haku, Sakura and Naruto sat at Ichiraku's, the girls again wondering where Naruto put all those bowls of ramen. "One more old man!" "Coming." "Naruto-san, don't you think you have had enough?" "Haku, he has hardly reached 'half full'. He's only at the fifth bowl; I have seen him eat twenty," said Sakura while staring at the blond nin. A small Poof signaled that someone Shunshined behind them and the girls turned around. "Yo."
"Hello Kakashi-sensei." "I just came to tell you that Akuma will probably pull through and that maybe he can get visited tomorrow. But don't expect him to be awake." "Here we go again," muttered Naruto between two bites. "What do you mean 'again'?" "You see Hinata, during the... true Genin test Akuma was attacked and ended up in the hospital for a good week in a coma," said Sakura, her eyes fixed on the untouched bowl of ramen before her.
Kakashi watched how his students' expression fell within seconds. 'I would like to tell them something to cheer them up but I doubt anything I'd say could change their mood.' "Well, I told you what I wanted. By the way, the Hokage gave us five days off to... get settled in again." "Hai sensei," muttered Sakura and Naruto in one voice, still unable to pull out of their downed mood. Soon afterwards Kakashi left, leaving the four teens to themselves.
"Do you think he will be the same? People change during a coma." "Hinata, if I learned something during my time really knowing Akuma then it's the fact that he will not give up and he will never change. Except for a few minor details. Like the shadow that bears his synonym, he will bend when needed but never change." Astonished by the depths of Naruto's words all three girls fell silent, although Haku had no idea what they were talking about.
Seeing that his number one customer seemed to scorn his food, Ichiraku headed over to them, addressing Naruto, "What's wrong kid? You barely had six bowls." "Sorry old man but... somehow I'm no longer hungry." "Could your sensei have something to do with it?" "It's not that. In fact... his news... was better then all I hoped for. It's just... do you know of our fourth member? Ryoushi Akuma?" "Heard of him. The other kids call him Shadow." "Yeah that's him. Anyway, when we returned from our mission he started to cough up blood and now he's in ICU." "Wow; that sucks." "FATHER!" "Oh Shi!" The old man was cut off as a pan connected forcefully with the back of his head before he fell to the floor, revealing his daughter as the assailant.
"WHAT HAVE I TOLD YOU ABOUT FOUL LANGUAGE IN FRONT OF CUSTOMERS?!" But the man was unable to reply seeing he was totally knocked out, a huge lump forming on his head. The four customers stared at the girl and her... persuasive methods. "Sorry you had to see that," smiled Ayame while trying to hide pan that had the imprint of her father's skull in it. "Remind me to never cross her," muttered Naruto to Hinata who nodded, still unable to process the last few seconds.
Ω
Naruto and Hinata had just reached the edge of the Hyuuga district as a presence appeared behind them. "What are you doing with IT Hinata?" the two teens slowly turned their heads and both of their blood froze within their veins. Behind them stood no one else but Hyuuga Hiashi, Hinata's father. "Father." Naruto, in an attempt to soothe Hiashi's reaction, did something very uncommon of him: he bowed. "Hyuuga-dono."
Hiashi didn't move a single muscle at the display of obsequiousness and had his eyes fixed on Hinata. "Come. And you're forbidden to see him again." Hiashi walked past them, expecting Hinata to follow him. "No." Hiashi stopped in mid step, his brain barely capable of processing that single word. Had Hinata just said 'No' to him?! "Come now." "No!" Again this word! Barely able to suppress his anger he turned around and saw his daughter stand behind the demon.
"You will come now Hinata." "No father. And I WILL see him again." Hiashi, finally reaching the limit of his already short patience lashed out towards Hinata with his right hand only to have it get caught millimeters from her by a... red... Chakra appendage. Hiashi looked to his left and his mind shortly stopped.
There stood the demon but for the first time since he had been born his appearance resembled that of the damn fox. Red Chakra was flowing in a very thin aura around him, manifesting into three tails, one of them holding his hand in place. "Listen up teme, I could care less what you do to me but you will not lay a single finger on her with ill intentions. If you do then even Kami won't be able to help you."
Naruto was seeing red, literally. He knew Hiashi was not the most loving father but he would not accept any further harassing towards his Hinata. A single flick of his tail and Hiashi was flung into the next wall, leaving an imprint of his back. Hiashi was quickly back on his feet and stared daggers into the two teens. If looks could kill they would have been two very dead ninja.
Hiashi in the meantime was seething inside. He so wanted to beat some sense into his daughter but with an angered demon right in front of him... you would have to be suicidal to act now. Of course Hiashi was not Clan Head for nothing but... Taking on the nine tailed demon alone?! Hell NO! Hiashi snorted as he remembered why he was even out here: to find a weakling. "Fine. Keep your bitch fox. Why do I even care about such a hindrance like it is alien to me."
Not waiting for another assault from the demon Hiashi spun around and left towards the main building of the estate, leaving an enraged Naruto and crying Hinata behind. Quickly suppressing the demonic Chakra Naruto rushed to the side of his girl and hugged her close, whispering soothing words of nothingness into her ear. After a good ten minutes Hinata's tears had lessened and Naruto scooped her up in his arms, heading for the only destination he could think of.
Ω
The Third was sitting in his office, sorting through the last stakes of paperwork for today. 'Damn you Minato for leaving me with this job again!' But his musing was cut short as someone tapped on the office's window. The old man looked up and was shocked to see Naruto standing outside, Hinata in his arms. Sarutobi swiftly opened the window and let the two in. "Naruto, what can I do for you?" "Hokage-sama, I have a lot to talk about with you." Stunned from the seriousness and the respectful name Sarutobi was quick to see that this was serious.
Within a few minutes Naruto had told the old man what happened and now they sat in silence. Hinata had cried herself to sleep in Naruto's arms and was oblivious to what was happening around her. "So, basically you were walking Hinata home, Hiashi found you, Hinata defied him, he seemed to attack her and you lost your temper." "Pretty much sums it up," muttered Naruto while looking down at the sleeping face of his girl. "What are you two planning now?"
"How should I know?! That's why I came here!" Sarutobi smirked a bit, knowing that what he had in mind would put Naruto in a tight spot. "Well, the only thing I can think of is that you take her home until her... family matters are settled." Naruto gave a perfect imitation of a fish at that, his mouth opening and closing without words coming out.
"H-ha-ve... you gone senile old man!" Sarutobi chuckled while he puffed his pipe, "Not if my last check up was right. And it is the only thing I can think of. I highly doubt any female ex-classmate of yours is still awake at this hour and that leaves you as the only option." Naruto fixed his eyes on the Third, nailing him with a cold stare. "I'm so gonna get you for this," was all he said before he left the office towards his apartment. Sarutobi sighed in relief as the door closed while focusing on suppressing a shudder, 'Why do I feel that his statement was equal to a promise?'
Ω
The next four days found Hinata, Haku, Sakura and Naruto visit Akuma at least once each day. Zabuza had been accepted into Konoha's ranks as a Jounin and was right now on probation. He and Haku had been given an apartment close to Naruto's, although it was in a less... violent neighborhood. Akuma's situation had stabilized although he still was running on low blood. No one could figure out why he had gone into this state or what had and would happen. The only thing Sakura finally pointed out was that Akuma's seals were always present and glowing in a slight blue hue. None of the doctors could even fathom what could be happening. After all, no one knew how those seals worked.
Right now all four were standing or sitting in Akuma's hospital room alongside with the Hokage and Kakashi, awaiting Dr. Kishimoto's latest prognosis. The elderly man was standing before the bed, flipping through the clipboard. "Well, from what we gathered the last few days I can say that his blood levels are rising again. In two or three days they should be back to normal if the current recovery rate keeps up. Also I'd like you all to look at those radiographs. The first is from the first day while the second was just made hours ago."
Kishimoto pinned both at the window, the setting sun making them clear for everyone to see. "W-wha... what is the meaning of this," stuttered the Hokage as it became clear to him what had Kishimoto sweating all the time. "What is it old man?" "Look carefully Naruto," said Kakashi, closing his book and walking up to the window. "On both pictures are all of Akuma's organs. Now, compare them to each other."
Suddenly Haku gasped, "T... they are bigger then before!" "Hai," said Kishimoto, "His organs seem to have grown an extra layer of protective skin. The cellular density in his skin itself has increased as well. In other words: he grew a second layer of skin inside and outside." "NANI?!?!?!" "Oi, keep it low Naruto."
A raspy voice from behind them caused everyone to turn around. Akuma was sitting up in the bed, quickly removing all wires attached to his body. "HEY! What do you think you're doing," shouted Kishimoto quickly rushing over to the teen's side. "Sorry Doc, but there is no need for them any longer." "What do you mean," asked Kakashi, while again flipping through his book. "I mean that I'm very much aware of what is going on in my body. I don't know why it's happening but I know what."
A suddenly blue glow filled the room and all eyes were drawn towards Akuma's hands. The Adept himself was staring at them, his eyes wide with obvious terror and fear. "Hokage-sama! There is no time for explanations! Get everyone out of this room and prohibit anyone from entering until I say different!" Seeing the fright in the teens eyes Kakashi and Sarutobi quickly pushed everyone outside, having major problems with Sakura who was fighting with teeth and claws against Kakashi's grip.
As soon as the door closed behind them they heard shattering glass form inside and a strong gust howled out between the door and its frame. Quickly making the appropriate seals the Third cast a barrier around the door in case it gave way to the wind. Naruto in the meantime had his eyes closed and was deep in thought, Kyuubi talking vividly in his mind. After a few moments he opened his eyes. "Oi, calm down. Akuma knows what he's doing."
"How can you be so calm," shouted Sakura close to tears. She was not ready to loose a teammate already. "Calm down Sakura. Remember what's up with his seals? Kyuubi has provided several possibilities about what is going on. First, due to the recent change in his body Akuma's seals are not enough to suppress his Psynergy anymore. Second, again due to the changes the seals have been damaged and he has to redo them. At least those are the ones it thinks most likely to be true."
Silence fell over them for several minutes as suddenly the door opened behind the barrier. Akuma stood in the doorway panting heavily, bloody bandages covering his hands while he was back in his clothes as well. A series of seals and the barrier dropped. "What happened Akuma," said the Hokage sternly. Still breathing heavily Akuma answered in an even more raspy voice, "Two things... first, my seals failed me... and... second... they weren't strong enough any... longer...." "I claim you fixed them?" "Hai. Sorry to have worried you but I'm no longer used to the full pressure of Jupiter while I'm not in combat. I didn't want to risk harming any of you."
Everyone sighed in relief at Akuma's words; except for Sakura. She stood like a statue, staring at her teammate while tears started to pool in her eyes. Akuma, soon taking notice of the girl's state, walked up to her and brushed his right thumb over her left cheek. "Don't cry over someone like me Sakura." Finally unable to control herself, Sakura flung her arms around Akuma's neck, burying her face in his chest. Akuma in turn, slightly confused and caught off guard by the girl, instinctively moved his arms around her, trying to comfort the now openly crying girl. Kakashi and Sarutobi hid small, knowing smiles while they watched the exchanged between the teens.
After seemingly forever the Third cleared his throat to catch everyone's attention, "Listen up everyone, Tomorrow morning at 0700 sharp I want all of you in my office. Is that clear?" "Hai," said all of them in unison; only Sakura simply nodded her head, still unwilling to let go of Akuma. Only seconds later the Third and Kakashi Shunshined away and Dr. Kishimoto left as well, leaving the teens alone. Soon Naruto had his left arm around Hinata's waist while she rested her head on his shoulder. The two and Haku watched with small smiles how Akuma desperately tried to calm Sakura down only to fail. Finally he looked up, a plea obvious on his face. But the other three teens held up their hands mouthing, "Don't look at me." Akuma sighed and did the only thing that cam to his mind to be able leave this place: he scooped Sakura up in his arms.
The other three couldn't help but grin as they saw a small blush creep on Sakura's cheeks. All five left the building and followed Akuma, wanting to know exactly how it would end with Sakura. What confused them was that Akuma headed for the shopping district, namely the street of clothes. "Hey Akuma, what are you up to?" "Let's just say a make over is necessary." Akuma had entered a shop for ninja gear and clothes and quickly made his way over to the clothes section. He let go of Sakura's legs and placed her on her own feet. Faster then even Kakashi could see with his Sharingan Sakura had put a good two meters between them, her face burning. Akuma couldn't help but chuckle at her antics while he scanned through the layouts. 'I wonder if she'll ever be able to look me in the eyes.'
Hinata and Haku too smiled at Sakura, seeing the girl throw one glance after another over her shoulder at Akuma. Said teen had several short sleeved shirts in his arm and was now walking towards the shop counter. He placed the articles on the counter and waited for the woman behind it to look up from her book. But the woman ignored him for nearly five minutes and a dangerous twitch appeared on Akuma's face. "Excuse me miss," hissed Akuma while trying desperate to control himself. But still no reaction. 'I. Have. Had. Enough. Of. This.' With a single flick of his left wrist the book caught on fire and burned away within seconds making the woman scream. She looked up and fixed her eyes on Akuma who was still trying not to do any more then this.
"Just what do you think you're doing," bellowed the woman while instinctively using the Big Evil Head no Jutsu Iruka was so fond of. But Akuma didn't back off, bolts of lightning suddenly covering the right half of his face, originating from his eye. "I intended to purchase a few things but now I feel more like burning this place to the ground." Five people backed off at his statement, spoken with such a cold tone that it could freeze the deserts of Wind Country. Without another word Akuma turned around and left the shop, leaving a shaking woman behind.
It took his friends a few minutes to catch up with him but when they did they found him leaning against the wall of a house, his hands clenched into fists while they were surrounded by twirling air. "Akuma...," said Sakura shyly not wanting to fuel the anger of her friend. His eyes snapped open and the four gasped. The white of his eyeballs had vanished and was replaced by a blue color, like they did back in the fight with Farok. Realizing the fright in his friends' eyes Akuma managed to calm down, his eyes returning to normal. "Gomen." He lowered his head, staring at the dusty road. 'What is going on? This was not supposed to happen. It said nothing about this.'
"Hey Akuma, you alright?" Naruto knew that Akuma would never harm them but to see those eyes again had been a shock. "I'm... not sure...." "What is going on?" "Something... has awakened.... I don't know what exactly it is but... I thought I could handle it. Looks like I was wrong...." Akuma looked up into the darkening sky, his eyes glanced with worry. 'Damn it! Why? Why is this all happening?' "Maybe you should go home and have a good night's sleep. That should calm you down." Akuma nodded towards Hinata, "Might be my best bet. Good Night." He took a step back into the shadows of a building and a second later he was gone.
"Do you too have this feeling," muttered Haku while she stared into the shadows. "What feeling Haku," asked Hinata while leaning against Naruto. "That something big is going to happen." The four shared a look and all knew what Haku was talking about: the air seemed to be filled with electricity.
Ω
Akuma had just entered his apartment and locked the door, unlike any other time. To say he was on edge was the understatement of the century. 'Why do I feel like one of them is around?' Just out of habit he gathered some Psynergy, "Reveal: Grand Scale!" Akuma let three waves of energy flow before he whipped around. 'Someone's in here as well! It's weak but I still sense it!' Within a single second he had both of his Katana at the ready, his back pressed against the wall next to the door leading into his bedroom. His muscles tensed as he took the door down with a single swipe of a blade and a split second later he vanished into the shadows of the room.
He carefully scanned the room until his eyes fell on a small quivering form in a corner of the room. He strained his eyes and ears to make out details and noticed the sobbing sounds. Also the scent was defining the person as female. Seeing no evident threat, Akuma sheathed his swords but still kept his guard up. He canceled his Cloak and stepped closer to the quivering female. At closer inspection he saw that the girl would probably not be older then ten or something that range. Her clothes consisted only of black rags and countless Chakra burns were visible to the bare eye.
"Hey," spoke Akuma softly, trying to not look like a threat. The head of the girl whipped around and her pupil-less eyes pierced the darkness and only one single thought hit Akuma square in the face, 'HINATA?!' "PLEASE! No more punishment! I'll be a good girl! Just PLEASE no more pain!" The girl seemed to try to disappear into the wall, fright, pain and utter terror evident on her face.
Akuma very slowly removed both of his Katana and threw them on the bed along his weapon holsters, trying to prove his words, "I'm not going to hurt. Please, come closer." Slowly the girl walked closer a little bit, still conscious of him while it was obvious that she was in pain. "Who... are you?" "My name is Akuma and I own this place." "Akuma... I heard this name before...." "Come closer; I promise that I will not hurt you."
The girl took a few more steps towards him and stepped into the light coming from the living area and Akuma gasped at the sight. The girl wore the remainders of a fishnet shirt and a black T-shirt which were barely hanging on her form while her blackish-blue, waist long hair stuck in all directions. Her navy blue pants were in equal bad shape, barely covering her from the world's pedophiles' eyes. "Bloody Hell, what happened to you?!" The girl shrank back at his outburst trying to melt back into the shadows, "G... go... men." But Akuma raised his hand to stop her, "No, it's not your fault. I'm sorry for shouting but I... just couldn't help myself." The girl walked closer to him until he would be able to touch her if he wanted to.
He bent down to her height, trying to keep the anger towards the one who had done this out of his voice, "Come with me into the kitchen, ok? I'll get you something to eat and then I'll take you to the hospit-." "NO! Not the hospital! They'll find me and hurt me again!" "Ok, ok. No hospital. I get it. There is no need to shout. I'll treat your wounds myself." Akuma stood back up and held his right hand out to the girl. Slowly the girl toke his hand and he led her into his leaving quarters. "What do you want to eat?" "Do you... have some sushi...?" The hopeful spark in the girl's eyes was more then enough to make it evident that she loved the stuff. "Let me look in the fridge."
Akuma quickly scanned the content of his fridge and found a plate with still relative fresh nigiri and maki. "Here you go." Fetching a pair of metal chopsticks from a drawer he moved towards the free working counter of the kitchen. Carefully lifting the girl up he sat her down on the counter and was about to hand her the chopsticks when he noticed that her hands were too swollen for her to hold them. "Let me have a look at your hand, then you can have as much as you want." The girl nodded and held her hands towards Akuma who carefully took one in his own, inspecting the bruised and blue skin.
'Damn it. Whoever did this knew what he was doing.' Covering his hands in a brown glow he got to work on her right hand, first mending the obvious bruises and then getting towards those Chakra burns. "Say, you never told me your name," said Akuma softly, trying to create a small conversation. "My name is Hanabi." "Hanabi, a nice name for a nice girl." An adorable blush covered Hanabi's cheeks at Akuma's words while he switched hands.
"Just be patient a bit longer and I'll be finished with your hands and we will finish after you eat." Hanabi nodded while she watched curiously how Akuma healed the Chakra burns. While he worked Akuma noticed something that disturbed him greatly. 'With each burn I heal, her Chakra seems to grow stronger. Could it be...?' His mind traveled towards a lesson on the human body back in the academy.
After a bit it hit him like a kick in the balls. 'Of course! The Juuken can attack the tenketsu if used with the Byakugan! But that would mean....' "Hanabi, you don't have to answer this question if you don't want to." Hanabi only tilt her head slightly to the right and waited for his question. "Has... one of your clan attacked you?" At this tears started to pool in the girl's eyes and she looked away. Akuma, finished with both of her hands, placed his right hand on top of her head ruffling her hair a bit.
"You don't have to answer. Now eat something and then we get the rest of those wounds done with." Hanabi nodded as he handed her the chopsticks and she quickly started to stuff her mouth with the small bits of food. Akuma used this time to truly look at her. 'She must have been out on the streets for at least one night if the dirt on the clothes and her body have anything to say. To run around in her state and not have anything obvious happen to her is a near-miracle.' Seeing the appetite Hanabi had only strengthened the theory that she had been away from home for longer then a few hours.
After only ten minutes the plate was cleaned of the last rice grain and Hanabi had gained a bit more easiness around him. Akuma quickly disposed of the dish in the sink and then carefully lifted Hanabi up in his arms. "Let's get you cleaned up, healed and then put you to bed. Tomorrow we talk with the Hokage and see what he can do, ok?" Hanabi simply nodded into his chest while her arms tightened around his neck.
Akuma made short notice of giving Hanabi a quick bath. To the utter embarrassment of the young girl he was reluctant to let her get cleaned up alone, saying that although he could heal her even without getting cleaned up, doing so would increase the healing rate and he would not take any chances of her wounds getting infected. After that came the long but successful healing procedure and again Hanabi was forced to stand in her birthday suit. Now mind you, Akuma had abso-fucking-lutely no hentai thoughts about the naked girl in front of him. He was 110 percent professional and didn't waste a single thought on such topics.
After those highly embarrassing situations were done with, Akuma looked through his closet in search for some clothes for the night. After a few minutes he found a long red shirt and an old pair of boxers, which were held in place due to a knot at the side. Not wanting to kill the girl from embarrassment Akuma quickly tucked her into the bed and the left the room to catch some close eye on the couch but decided to wait until Hanabi would sleep.
After a good forty minutes of lying on the couch and trying not to doze off Akuma heard naked feet pad softly over the ground, drawing closer to him. They stopped right next to him and he cracked open one eye. He saw Hanabi, dragging the blanket behind her, standing before him, an uncertain look in her eyes. Cutting her off as she opened her mouth Akuma moved to lie on his side and patted the space next to him. Faster then Rock Lee without his weights Hanabi lay next to him, seeking comfort in his body. Akuma sighed shortly before draping the blanket over the two of them, while Hanabi claimed his chest as her personal pillow. With a single content sigh the young Hyuuga was off to Dreamland and Akuma too leaned back to catch some Zs. 'Tomorrow will be one hell of a pain in the ass.'
Ω
The next morning found all recent Genin in the Hokage office; all except for one: Akuma. The teen was a few minutes late already and his teammates began to worry; at least those who cared. "It's not like him to be late," whispered Naruto to Sakura, a hint of worry in his voice. "Hai, and Hinata seems more nervous then normal." It was true that the young Hyuuga was shifting her weight from one foot to the other. "Alright," said the Third catching everyone's attention, "We give Akuma another ten minutes and then we'll start without him." Shortly after Sarutobi finished, the door swung open and Akuma walked in. But something was off. He walked... differently and also slower then what they were used to. Suddenly a speck of red caught everyone's attention and all leaned to the side to see what was behind him. And when they saw it their jaws dropped and they went bug-eyed. Behind Akuma, clinging to his left leg and hidden between him and his coat stood Hanabi.
Akuma had taken her to buy some clothes before they came and now she had something presentable. He had given her mostly free reign, only insisting that she'd get a set of white shades to hide her eyes. The next thing people noticed was the black, sleeveless shirt over a fishnet undershirt. Next came a kneecap long skirt of equal black and beneath a pair of red shorts running a bit longer. A pair of standard shinobi sandals at her feet was the least unexpected article of clothing. The look was completed with a red coat, looking identical to Akuma's if you ignored the color. "My Akuma, who's that," asked the old man but Hinata beat Akuma to it. "HANABI!"
Within a split second Hinata was next to the two and pulled Hanabi into a fierce hug. "Nee-chan," said the younger girl while she hugged her older sister back. Everyone was too shocked to say anything for the moment as they watched the exchange between the sisters while Akuma walked towards the Hokage and exchanged some silent words with him.
Nodding the old man turned his attention back the prior task at hand. "Hinata, could we please have your attention back? Akuma will explain everything once we are done and you're free to stay." Hinata nodded and released her sister who was next to Akuma faster then anyone could see, again clinging to his leg. "Now, the reason why I have called you all here. Due to the recent development I have decided to rearrange the teams."
A shout of "NANI" could be heard from the Hokage office throughout the village and several villagers feared Naruto was once again on a pranking spree.
Every Genin was shocked. Each had expected to be around their team members until a few of them graduated to Chunins. "Now, without stalling I'll give you your new teams. Aburame Shino, Nara Shikamaru and Akimichi Chouji will form Team 10. You will meet your sensei at the Hokage monument. Hyuuga Hinata, Haruno Sakura, Uzumaki Naruto and Ryoushi Akuma will form Team 11. Your sensei waits for you at training ground 44. Uchiha Sasuke, you'll be Kakashi's apprentice. You should know how to find him. Yamanaka Ino, Inuzuka Kiba and...."
The Hokage was interrupted as the office door opened. "Ah you're just in time." Everyone turned around and looked at the door. The first to react to the newcomer was Akuma but his reaction was nothing they would have expected. Within short notice Akuma stood with his back pressed against the Hokage's desk while he had both of his Katana at the ready, held in his typical fashion and crossed before his chest, "WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING HERE?!?!?!"
In the door stood a slender girl, probably around fifteen. She had shoulder long, blond hair and burning red eyes. Her body seemed that of a typical fifteen year old, not really much but enough for a male teen to get a little problem. She wore a tight fitting, sleeveless white blouse, several blue ribbons running from her shoulders down her back. Her waist was exposed before a few silver belts caught the eye. The belts passed over into a very short white skirt, reaching just below her tights before revealing blue, tight fitting shorts. The girl tilt her head to the side, looking curiously at Akuma, "Have we met before?" "Don't play the innocent girl, you know better Tashya!" The girl sighed, shrugging her shoulders, "Looks like I'm busted, ne Akuma?"
Akuma went out of his defensive stance and got in a more aggressive one, standing with his left side towards Tashya, his left arm bent slightly while the right loosely hang at his side, "Why are you here? Why can't you bastards just leave me alone after all you have done?" Tashya raised her hands in defense, "Hey, I'm not here to fight, at least not you." "Yeah, sure. As if I'd believe you." "Akuma, I understand that you're angry bu." "ANGRY?! Angry doesn't even come close. More like a mere millimeter from killing you! Now, defend yourself."
Akuma moved so fast that most Genin missed his movement and only saw him suddenly stand before Tashya, his blades crossed in a scissor like fashion, only a mere centimeter from beheading her. Disbelief was written all over Akuma's face as he spoke a single word. "Why?" "Why what?" "Why haven't you dodged? Even if you were only half as fast as you used to be you would have been easily able to dodge that attack." "As I told you before: I'm not here to fight you."
The remaining Genin and the Third watched the exchange of words with wide eyes and open mouths. 'They know each other?' Suddenly, the blades still at her throat, Akuma's eyes briefly sparkled before his and Tashya's glazed over for a moment. After a bit focus returned to their eyes and Akuma lowered and sheathed his weapons, "We're going to have a very long talk." "Are we?" "Don't act so dumb; you know quite well what I'm talking about." Akuma's glare was colder then ice and Tashya took a step back.
"Ehem, could we please get back to what you came here for?" Everyone turned back to the Third while trying hard not to stare at Akuma or Tashya. "Now, as I said Yamanaka Ino, Inuzuka Kiba and Tenshi Tashya will form the new Team 8. You'll meet your sensei in front of the Academy. You all will meet your sensei in two hours so use that time to get in touch with your new teammates. Now you're dismissed." The newly assigned teams left while Naruto, Sakura and Hinata stayed behind.
The Third turned back to Akuma who had managed to calm down enough to give the old man a rational explanation to why Hanabi was with him. After a few minutes Akuma had retold the happenings of the previous night while Hanabi was in her sister's arms, the older sibling shedding silent tears. Finally the Third turned towards Hinata, "Can you fathom what technique was used on your sister?" Of course he knew the most likely one but he hoped there was a clan technique he had no knowledge of. "M-most... likely the Hakke, although I can not tell which one...." The old man turned back to Akuma and rose a single eyebrow. "I... healed total of 508 'Chakra burns' as I thought of them first." A loud gasp from Hinata caused everyone to look back at her. She was quivering and holding her sister even closer, "Not... only... once but.... twice...."
"What are you talking about Hinata-chan?" "Through the main branch of the Hyuuga family a technique is passed down called Hakke. As far as I know there are two: the Rokujuuyonshou and the Hyakunijuuhachishou. And from the total number of hits each attack has we can be sure that Hanabi had been hit with not only one but TWO Hakke Hyakunijuuhachishou in close succession." All five teens were silent at that. The Third took a long drag of his pipe before he turned to Sakura and Naruto, "I'm sorry but I'll have to ask you two to leave." Naruto was about to protest before Sakura sent him to the floor via a fist and dragged him out of the room.
After the door closed Akuma spoke up, "Hokage-sama, I dare claim it's safe to say that it would not be wise for Hanabi to return to the Hyuuga compound." "That may be true but as long as she bears the name Hyuuga she's forced to live with them; unless the clan head says different." Silence fell over the room as each one was deep in thought. Suddenly a very dangerous smirk crossed Akuma's features and he looked at the Hokage out of the corner of his eyes; a look that spelled the bane of a Kage: PAPERWORK.
"Hokage-sama, I might have found a... loophole if Hanabi wishes to use it." That simple statement caught everyone's attention and the Hokage frowned slightly, "What do you have made up in that mind of yours?" "Actually you said it yourself: as long as Hanabi is bearing the Name Hyuuga she's forced to obey the clan head's orders. But what if she discarded the name Hyuuga?" Sarutobi's jaw hit his desk as he was presented with such a simple solution. "T... that... could actually work. There is no law that prohibits such a thing and it would allow Hanabi to leave the compound. But... the Hyuuga council could still force the 'Seal' on her."
Another smirk, darker than the last one appeared on Akuma's face, "Not if you're willing to do some paperwork." Sarutobi groaned but motioned for Akuma to continue. "If another Clan would adopt Hanabi she would be save from all decisions the Hyuuga council could place on her." "Why don't I like your tone," muttered Sarutobi as the smirk grew into an evil smile, "And which Clan do you have in mind?" "Mine." Sarutobi let his pipe drop as Akuma spoke this simple word. "Y... yours? You don't have a Clan!" "Not yet."
And finally the old Hokage knew what Akuma's mind had worked up. Sarutobi couldn't help but chuckle at the idea, "You thought your plan through, I give you that but you'd need the blessing of at least the Civil Council or the Clan Council to do such a thing. Why would they allow you to claim a Clan?" "Because then Konoha would have the strongest bond possible with any Adepts I might produce biologically in the future." 'And again I've been out-smarted by a mere Genin,' thought Sarutobi while he couldn't help but mirror Akuma's evil smile. There was no chance in hell the Civil Council, and probably most of the Clan Council as well, would let this opportunity slip. "You are a very devious person Akuma." "A trait that runs in the family."
The two Hyuuga siblings looked at the two males with wide eyes. Hanabi couldn't understand all they were talking about but understood that there might be a chance that she wouldn't be forced to go back to that new found hell. Hinata in turn understood perfectly what they planned and she was torn between ecstatic for her sister and shocked at what this could mean in the future. After all, Akuma would be made clan head and get a seat in the Council as soon as he reached Chunin status. But the Hokage was right, if the Council knew what Akuma was capable of they wouldn't waste a single second to form such a bond.
The Hokage turned his attention to the younger Hyuuga and explained their plan to her. After understanding most of it Hanabi was eager to agree to the plan and even smiled, something Hinata hadn't seen her do since she had been a toddler. "Alright," said Sarutobi while he clapped his hands together, "I will present the... proposition to the Council this afternoon. But Akuma, you are aware of what this entails?" "You have free reign from my side; except for the seal thing." "I understand. Then I believe Hanabi will stay with you for the time being?" "If she wants to I have no objections." Only a second after he said that Akuma was tackled to the ground, Hanabi hugging him fiercely while muttering one word over and over, "Nii-san."
Akuma was literally floored. The Third and Hinata couldn't help but laugh openly at Akuma's shocked face before Hinata offered him a hand up. Akuma took it while using his other hand to hold Hanabi close. As he stood Hinata pulled his head down to whisper into his ear, "Treat her wrong and nothing will save you."
Akuma gulped, hard. He knew he normally could take Hinata but if she was angered... how goes the saying? Hell hath no fury like a woman. And Akuma would bet his balls that this saying would be proven more then right if he did something wrong so the only thing he did was nod quickly. Watching this little scene the Third almost felt sorry for Akuma, ALMOST.
'Thanks to him I can't even fathom how much paperwork will be in store for me.' "Well, I'd say you all should get going." "Hokage-sama, would it be alright if I let Hanabi tag along? I'm not sure I want to let her out of sight until this... situation is dealt with." "I don't think that should be a problem for today but speak about it with your sensei." "Hai Hokage-sama."
The three teens quickly left the office to leave the old man to his thoughts. 'You might just have gotten some powerful enemies Akuma. If this plan of yours works then the Main House will hate your guts just as much as the village hates Naruto.'
Ω
Hinata, Hanabi and Akuma reached training ground 44, aka Forest of Death, minutes before they were supposed to meat their new sensei. Sakura and Naruto were waiting at the fenced in area, both looking rather uneasy. "What's up with you two," asked Akuma while he sat down on Sakura's right. Hanabi sat next to him while Hinata choose Naruto's left side, leaning her head on his shoulder. Sakura seemed to struggle with words while Naruto burst them out, "WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED?!"
Akuma quickly covered Hanabi's ears as he sensed the approach of a foul word while Hinata gave the back of Naruto's head a hard slap. "Watch what you're saying in my sister's presence!" "My ain't that sweet." Their five heads looked around at the unknown but obviously female new voice. "Oi, up here brats." All five looked upwards until they spotted a female standing on the fence smirking down at them.
Naruto's eyes went wide as he recognized that kunoichi, "YOU'VE GOT TO BE FUCKING SHITTING ME!!!" "Are you that happy to see me again Naruto-kun?" The female jumped down from the fence and landed easily in front of them. "I'm so getting the old monkey for this! Who came up with the idea of letting you lead a team Anko-chan?" "Oi Naruto, you know her?" asked Sakura who had shrunk back. "Yeah I know her. Mitarashi Anko, Tokubetsu Jounin; has an... addiction for dango and Sake, as well as snakes." The other three Genin looked at their new sensei with mixed feelings. If she truly was a Tokubetsu Jounin then she should be rather powerful but... something just screamed danger about her.
Anko in the meantime had let her eyes travel through the kids. She was rather surprised to see five of them, after all the old man had only spoken of four. She had only taken them because the alternative would have been to give Maito Gai two teams and even she wasn't that cruel so she took the job. 'Alright, we have Naruto-kun, that Haruno chick, a shy Hyuuga and... a freak. Who goes out with kids?' "Oi, you with the coat. Mind to get rid of your girl for the training?"
Akuma looked up at his new sensei, pushing his shades a bit down to lock eyes with her, "Are you talking to me?" "Yeah, I am. And now get her off you." "Sorry sensei, but I can't do that." "And why is that," asked Anko while her hands itched to throw a few kunai at the brat. "Because I won't throw my soon to be sister out for her soon to be ex-family to kill her." Anko was for a moment shocked but soon caught herself. "Mind explaining yourself?" Akuma looked to Hanabi who had moved behind him and she whispered into his ear, "If you think we can trust her." Akuma nodded and gave Anko a quick summary of what happened.
Anko was surprised at the story before she complimented Akuma on his plan. "You're evil," finished Anko with a smirk. "Thanks sensei. There aren't many people around who appreciate that little trait of mine." Anko looked him up and down before she spoke again, "Say, what do you know about torture?" Akuma closed his eyes for a bit, seemingly deep in thought before he opened them a bit while giving a smile that would make most Chunin soil themselves, "I dare say enough to make most standard ninja scream in a matter of hours. Why?" "I'll get to that later. Any favorite ways?" "Well, with a man it's most likely to...." But Akuma suddenly stopped and looked back at Hanabi, "Cover your ears and keep them that way until I tell you differently." The girl quickly nodded and covered her ears while also closing her eyes.
"Where was I? Ah, yes. With a man I'd start with removing limbs, like first the fingers and toes and the feet and hands and so on. The wounds I'd seal with fire. After that a bit of shocking with strong lighting comes to my mind. If the victim would still refuse... well there is always the family jewels." Naruto shivered while the girls looked shocked that Akuma could come up with such methods of torture. Anko in turn smiled, liking the way Akuma seemed to tick. "With a woman I'd most likely resort to mental torture. A side question, what has the Hokage told you about me?" "If you mean those powers of yours he said to see you like Naruto-kun here: always a surprise up your sleeves."
Akuma chuckled at being compared with Naruto, "Well, you could say that. Anyway, I'd invade the woman's mind and search for either her fears or her closest person. Fears are easy to toy with and close persons... a Genjutsu can work wonders on a person's psyche." Anko smirked wide while the rest shrank back from Akuma. This was a side of him they had never seen. "Maybe I know just the line of work for you." "An interrogation specialist huh?" "You're smart brat." "I thought I heard your name before. Aren't you Morino Ibiki's right hand?" "Not officially but I know he holds me in high regards."
"Ano... could we change the topic please?" Anko and Akuma looked at Sakura who seemed to be shaking and both scratched the backs of their head. "I got carried away, ne," laughed Anko while Akuma just grinned sheepishly before looking back at Hanabi, tapping her shoulder. The girl opened her eyes and then removed her hands and latched them onto his right arm. "Anyway, so the little firecracker will be around while we train?" "Hai, at least for a while. I know that she can't join us on missions but maybe in training she could partake from time to time if that's alright with you." "Sure, can't let such a sweety be harmed ne?" Anko bent down and ruffled Hanabi's hair while giving a genuine smile.
Hanabi smiled shyly back. 'This woman seems to be a nice enough person.' "Now brats, let get some sweat on those bodies. From the looks of things all but Naruto seem to have picked up a weapon." "Naruto-kun did pick up a weapon too but his got destroyed on our last mission." Naruto slapped his forehead at that, muttering, "I knew I forgot something." "Well he can change that after training. Now show me your weapons."
All three handed their weapons to Anko, Akuma even drew Kazesendo and handed it over to Anko. After looking them over for several minutes Anko handed them back, "They are pretty good. Especially that second blade of yours Akuma. Where did you get them?" Sakura and Hinata pointed at Akuma, who sighed and fished his scrolls from the inside of his coat, "I picked up the habit of collecting weapons of all kinds. You want one too?" "Maybe later. But where did you get Kazesendo?" "That actually I made myself, at least the details. The basic was done by a shop at the east wall of Konoha." "Ahh, then I know the shop. You know how to take your pick." "I spent six days just looking through all weapons stores of Konoha, not to mention two weeks for the actual forging and refining process."
"Anyway, let's get some basic Academy training done so I know what I'm working with. While I tor... check one of you the others teach our little firecracker some of the basics they know best." And with that Team 11 plus Hanabi settled in for some light training while they took turns in teaching Hanabi some basics. Naruto took Ninjutsu, Hinata Taijutsu, Sakura covered Chakra control and Akuma took the weapons. At the end Anko even taught Hanabi the theory of Genjutsu. To say it had been an eventful day for Hanabi would have been like saying Sunagakure during summer was just warm.
.ΩΩΩΩ
Aaaand CUT!
that's it for now. so, what do you think? i not only want , i NEED feedback. i added a new OC, twisted the plot and ripped apart the teams. was it good? did it raise some questions? i hope it was/did.
for those who wonder: the numbers of the team equal the sensei, 7 Kakashi, 8 Kurenai, etc.
now, what will happen next? i won't directly jump into the chunin exams but will do a few side missions with Team 11 and define a few things.
Jutsu Translation and other stuff
Hakke Rokujuuyonshou - Eight Divination Signs, Sixty-Four Palms of the Hand: you really should know that move. it's the one Neji used on Naruo in the first fight of the chunin finals.
Hakke Hyakunijuuhachishou - Eight Divination Signs, One-Hundred and Twenty-Eight Palms of the Hand: again you should know this one. Neji used it against Kidoumaru in the Sasuke Retrieval mission.
Kazesendo - Wind Death(roughly): Akuma's Jupiter katana. i named it for sanity reasons.
that's all i can think of right now so take care and until next time.
- T