Disclaimer: I own Nothing; have fun with that.
Chapter 10 :: Depature
Naruto laid quietly in his bed staring at the ceiling, sleep eluding him. It had been so long since he had slept in his room that he forgot how comforting it was to sleep on a proper bed with out the smell of an apartment complex's decay surrounding him. The smell of ink and paper that filled his room along with the layer of dust that had gathered since he moved out was nostalgic and embracing.
The memory of Ino haunted him whenever he stayed here previously which drove him back towards the apartment he had lived in for so long before Jiraiya and Mikon appeared. The image of Ino's blood covering his hands, seeping beneath his fingernails flashed in his mind. Sweet flowed sporadically as Naruto started to shake and shiver in agony from the memory the intruded upon his mind.
"WHAM!"
Naruto head was sent spinning as something hit his lower jaw sending him into a daze.
"Oomph! What the?" Naruto got out before relaxing as the sudden body of mass that fell on him came into focus after she had punched him. Leave it to Mikon to find her way into his bed all the while making it as unpleasant as possible. A smile stretched across Naruto's face as he looked at Mikon smiling expression as she muttered in her sleep.
"...mmmm, ramon... dumbass...zzzz"
Pulling himself out from underneath her he tried carefully to move her without waking her. A pointless endeavor considering the log that she was while asleep, but a show of compassion non-the-less.
"Even out like a rock you still rescue me from myself." Naruto said as he brushed her bangs aside. "Thanks Miko-chan"
Moving over to a corner he pulled himself up into a handstand and started practicing his chakra control knowing that sleep would not great him that night.
Konoha Main Gate
"He's late." Kurenai muttered in annoyance. Hinata, Shino, Kurenai, and Naruto stood patiently at the front gate waiting for the last minute participants for their mission to arrive.
Hinata spoke concerned, "Do you think something happened to them?"
Naruto shrugged, "Knowing them they might have gotten distracted peeping again. Knowing Mikon it's entirely possible. She's good at using the Tōton Jutsu under pressure. Not so much under pleasure."
Oblivious to Kurenai's reaction to the fact Naruto was suggesting continued by saying, "As for Ojisan, he cant keep quiet so they might very well be being chased around Konoha by now if that's what they're up to."
Just as they finished speaking a large dust cloud appeared down the main street. Screeching to a halt in front of Naruto it picked him up before ruffling his hair madly.
"Don't spread rumors that aren't true you punk." He exerted as he ruffled his hair. Mikon hoping down from Jiraiya's back. Kurenai still slightly cross from the duo's tardiness asked politely, "I'm assuming your absence was due to something important?"
Jiraiya put down a dazed Naruto as he turned around to nod. "Yeah, more intel just came in and I had to meet with a contact and the Hokage before coming here." He explained. Moving in closer he whispered, "It seems somethings going down in the Land of Stone near their border to the Land of Wind. There shouldn't be any problems for both our missions but we should be cautious."
Kurenai nodded before turning to her team. "Alright this is your first C rank mission. Do you three remember what our objective is?"
"Get to the border retrieve the thing and beat down any bandits that get in our way!" Naruto shouted confidently.
Kurenai smiled, "well you're not wrong Naruto. Hinata?"
"Our mission is to retrieve the border report from one of our forts along the border to the Land of Stone and return it back here to the Hokage." she said confidently.
Kurenai nodded, "Yes, that is correct never forget the object of your mission. Now is everyone ready?"
"Hell ya! Lets GO!" Naruto shouted as he charged ahead.
"Naruto wait up you can't leave on you own." Hinata squealed as she charged after him. Shino sighing as he too charged after his teammates.
Kurenai let out a sigh. "What am I gonna do with him?"
Jiraiya laughed as he patted her shoulder. "Only what you can do. He's definitely cheered up and the three of them have a good chemistry together. Naruto sets the pace for them pushing the other two outside their comfort zones to better themselves. While Hinata calms his brash tendencies, Shino acts as his anchor and roots him into focus. You've done a great job training these kids Kurenai."
"Coming from one of the Sannin that means a great deal." Kurenai said as the two of them walked onward after her team. "Still I can only hope they are ready for whatever is out there."
Jiraiya nodded in agreement. "Thing is they won't be ready no matter what you do." Before Kurenai could say anything he continued, "That's why we're sending them out today. No one is ever truly ready for the outside world beyond the comforts of their home. Its only after these kids experience it first hand that they will be ready. Isn't that why we train them to expect the unexpected and look beneath the surface of all things?"
Kurenai nodded seeing what he meant. In truth they weren't ready but sending them out would make them ready. As their instructor it was her job to make sure the survived whatever encounter they met.
As they walked Naruto was floored to be outside the village and was positively beaming.
"You seem in a really good mood today Naruto-kun."
Naruto grin grew as he smiled back at her. "I am, this is the first time I've been out of the Village. I'm super hyped right now, dattebayo"
"You've never left the village Naruto-kun?" Hinata asked in amazement. He nodded as he continued grinning away. Even Shino turned his head which for him was a sign of shock and or amazement.
"Yeah Naruto-kun's never left the village before so this is gonna be super awesome. Since we're heading to the border we're likely to pass through a village or two. I'll show you guys where all the best sweet vendors are. Your gonna love traveling outside Naruto." Mikon declared as she jumped in between the trio while resting her hands on her head.
Hinata giggled at her carefree nature. "You know the two of you are really like sometimes. Even the way you two think with your stomachs... Wait sorry that didn't come out right." Hinata mumbled out before being interrupted by both Mikon and Naruto laughing.
"You right about that, dattebayo!" Naruto laughed out clutching his stomach.
Interrupting their joy Shino asked, "Not to ruin the moment but why are you Mikon and Lord Jiraiya both joining us on our mission. It seems a bit out of place. Why, because one of the three Sannin and genin who isn't even on a squad officially are journeying with a squad on a simple C rank mission."
Mikon caught her breath as she clutched her stomach. "No Idea really. I'm just happy to be traveling with Naruto and Hina-chan. I think Jiji and the old man Hokage said something about traveling to the border to check on some kind of intel, disturbance or something, wasn't really paying attention. Something had them worried though."
"You know if you brats want to know you could just ask me since Mikon's memory is about as reliable as a leaking sieve." Jiraiya said causing the the group minus Shino to jump in surprise.
"Jiji!"
"Ojisan!"
"The reason me and Mikon are joining you is simply we're going in the same direction. There has been some strange occurrences near the border and I'm meeting one of Konoha's contacts just before the border to gain a clearer picture as to what's happening. Hopeful they will shine some clarity on if these strange occurrences are something to be worried about. Not really something for you three to worry over." Jiraiya explained.
Mikon snickered under her breath as she whispered to Naruto and Hinata, "Yeah that's what he says but the real reason is he's trying to look after and spend more time with Naruto. He's trying to make this essentially a family outing before we split up to do the actual missions. Don't tell him I told you that thought, hehe, he'd loose his image as a super pervert if he did."
"How do you know that?" Hinata asked.
"Oh I listened in on them while Jiji and the old man where talking." Mikon answered lazily.
As the six continued to travel Naruto was left in high spirits throughout the trip. Everything was new and vast. Naruto knew the world was big but until now he never truly felt how big the world was, and they had only traveled for a few hours. Having stopped for a break to eat at a dango shop Naruto looked out at the road and wondered just how far they had gone in those short hours.
"Hey Jiraiya-Ojisan? How far are we from the Land of Stone anyway?" Naruto asked curiously.
Jiriya who had just sat down on the red bench to eat next to Naruto who had been looking out at the road hummed to himself in thought. "We're not moving very fast so we're probable about four to five days away from the border."
"Really!?" Naruto exclaimed. His eyes widened as he tried to imagine just how much he'd be able to see as he traveled on this mission. As his thoughts grew enamored with visions of adventures and excitement he was brought back to reality as one of the employees asked, "Anything I can get you?"
Naruto suddenly froze up. He turned slowly as his brain tried to plan a route of escape.
"U-um I-I'll ha-h-have s-some dango..." Naruto stuttered out as the kind and accepting eyes that greeted him through him into greater confusion.
Smiling with a giggle the waitress nodded and took off to fulfill his order. Naruto watched not quite sure what just happened.
Jiraiya ruffled his hair as he said, "I'm guessing this is your first time being asked at an eating establishment your order without first being kicked out the door."
Receiving a nodded Jiraiya let out a sigh. "I figured as much. That's the nice thing about traveling, people know nothing about you or where you come from. Naruto, they people out here don't know of your burden and won't judge you for it. So relax and enjoy yourself, this is your first time outside of Konoha and on your first C rank mission no less." Jiraiya said patting his should just as a plate of dango was set next to his godson.
Handing the waitress a few coins he watched as Naruto calmed down, the tension in his shoulders and body flowing out from him like a river.
He wondered if had he abandoned his duty and focused on Naruto alone would things have gone better for him. Shaking his head he pushed the thought away. He had traveled the world and seen many things to know better then think his presence and actions could sway the unreasonable hatred that had taken hold of the hearts of Konoha's residents.
"Ojisan? Do you think my parents would be proud of me?"
Jiraiya laughed at his question. Offended by the sudden and very different response to his serious question Naruto shouted, "What so funny!"
However it wasn't Jiraiya but Mikon who answered him. "That's easy, its because your amazing Naruto." She answered while Jiraiya collecting himself.
"But I'm..." Naruto was about to counter before Jiraiya placed a firm hand on his shoulder. "Naruto you parents would be proud of you. Look at you, You've learned several high level jutsu including the Shadow Clone jutsu. Your work hard and care about those around you. And despite all the horrid treatment people give you, you have a heart of gold and don't hesitate to protect others. If your parents where around they'd be so proud of you."
Naruto nodded not entirely sure if he was just saying it or meant it. As if reading his mind Jiraiya continued, "If you don't believe me then the only thing you need to do is make it true. Isn't that what you've always been doing, pushing yourself past your limits and getting acknowledge by those who watch you?" he said gesturing towards Shino, Hinata and Kurenai.
A smile returned as Naruto's doubts once again vanished into the recesses of his mind. "Yeah... thanks Ojisan."
Leaving the two alone Mikon returned to her table where Shino, Hinata and Kurenai where eating just in time to catch the tail end of Shino's question.
"... alright for us to be taking a break during our mission?"
Kurenai nodded and explained, "The mission is a simple retrieval mission from the border. Technically we're going to get it about three of four days in advance so there isn't a real hurry. Welcome back Mikon I thought you where gonna sit with those two?"
Nodding Mikon sat back down across from Hinata next to Kurenai. "I was but its better this way. Naruto is always alone and Jiji is the closest thing to a parent his has. I've had plenty of time to be wanted so its best if I let them have some time to themselves."
"That's really thoughtful of you Miko-chan." Hinata praised.
Shino silently agreed as he said. "Considering how you where in the Academy, you are surprisingly insightful and compassionate. Why, because you where already aware of Naruto's living situation and troubles after just returning from your travels.
Mikon tilted her head in confusion, "Living situation?"
"Yes," Hinata nodded in agreement. "I guess since you knew he lived in that apartment that it would have been easier for you to know what he's been going through."
Mikon shot up from her seat in surprise. "Wait a second. You mean Naruto's been living in that old run down apartment building that he use to live in!?"
All those present at the table where taken aback by her sudden action, Kurenai included. Hinata nodded. "Yeah, the Hokage hinted that he's been living there for some time now. Didn't you know that?"
"How the hell would I know that, I returned just that evening to see your team training and assumed that you knew. Naruto moved in with me into Jiraiya's house on the outskirts of the village. He even has his own room. When Jiraiya first returned to the village, back when I first met him, Naruto moved in with us cuz he's family you know. Why did Naruto go back to his old place?" Mikon asked out load as her brain started to overload with the news she was given. Suddenly something clicked in her mind as she finally noticed the missing presence in Naruto's life during her few months in Konoha. "Where's Ino?"
"Ino is on team ten with Shikamaru and Choji." Hinata answered.
Mikon looked down in worry. "That's not what I meant. Before we had to leave Ino and Naruto where always there for each other."
"After you left there seemed to be some kind of tension between Naruto and Ino. I haven't seen the two together except on two occasions." Shino stated taking a sip of tea.
"You don't think it was my fault. Did something happen because I left with Jiji!?" Mikon asked he face turning slightly pale.
"It probably has to do more with Naruto than you." Jiriya said from behind Mikon.
"GYAA! Damn it Jiji. Don't sneak up on me." Mikon stammered out as her heart pounded in her ears. "You gave me a heart attack dattebane."
Ignoring her Jiraiya looked at Kurenai and said, "We should get moving. Think the kid is getting restless and there are reasons for us to not stay here too long."
Shino eyebrows focused on his last statement as Kurenai nodded in agreement.
Hinata looked at Jiraiya to ask, "What do you mean by the tension between Naruto and Ino was most likely Naruto's fault?"
Jiraiya shook his head, "Sorry kid, but if I told you I could risk spilling some confidential stuff."
Walking off he rejoined Naruto who was staring intently at a small book Hinata had seen him reading before. Grabbing Naruto by the cuff of his jacket Jiraiya swung him around onto so hes back rested on his. As he was carried of Hinata noticed that the greater the distance form the waitress the less rigid Naruto became.
"Whats wrong with Naruto-kun?" She asked looking at Mikon. Shrugging the blonde girl walked right past Hinata as she grinned backwards with a smile. "Not a clue." She said without a care.
Hinata followed behind them not sure what to make of Naruto's behavior and Mikon's reactions. Until know she had though Mikon knew everything about Naruto and was slightly jealous of her for it. Yet judging from her reactions she realized that she didn't know anything about what was going on with Naruto after she left.
"They're hiding something from us." A stout voice said aloud next to her. Looking up Hinata was greeted by Shino who seemed to be brooding more then usual. He was hunched ever so slightly forward and if not for his glasses Hinata would have sworn he was glaring holes through Naruto and Jiraiya.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that Kurenai-sensei, Mikon, and Lord Jiraiya are hiding something from us, maybe even Naruto." he answered as he shifted his focus to Mikon.
Hinata looked at Mikon as he explained, "Back when Mikon returned I saw her by chance leaving the Hyuuga residence. At the time I was catching a rare nocturnal species of insect and didn't recognize her so I confronted her. She said something that has been eating at me; you're not the only host in town. I'm not sure exactly what she meant by that but I think it may have something to do with Kurenai-sensei and Lord Jiriaya secret regarding Naruto."
"You think so?" Hinata asked.
With a nod Shino returned to his usual posture. In his mind he was becoming more perplexed by the identity of who Naruto was. At first he was just a uninterested fellow student with a penchant for pranks. Then immediately after the graduation test he suddenly became depressed and withdrawn from what he had observed. As a teammate Shino didn't care much for who he was with but as he watched, fought, and observed him Shino in the back of his mind was worried. Everything he had experienced told him that Naruto was a loyal, kind, and pure hearted person who had suffered some great pain. Sure he wanted to be friends with them but his focus on logic
While he didn't say anything more Hinata for the majority of the trip leaving her to wonder what secret could they be hiding from her and Shino about Naruto. Her thoughts continued to circle around this question until night fell. The group split in half between male and females with Shino, Naruto, and Hinata in one tent while Mikon, Kurenai, and herself took residence in another.
As sleep slowly took hold of her Hinata fell into blissful slumber.
Hinata found herself staring out over a mirrored lake as several waterfalls fell from a starry sky. Bush and trees sprinkled the vast field of violet and white Lavander flowers and Lily of the Valley. Hinata stared at the empty lake surface which reflect back the sea of stars that shined overheard from stony cave ceiling from which the waterfalls descended. The starry sky was clearly created by luminescent moss and insects but romantically depicted the milky way shimmering brightly in dazzling bio-luminescence. Looking back up a smile cupped her features as a stound young man appeared before her practicing devotedly before her.
Naruto stood in front of her training upon the surface of the lake as the full moon shining brightly on the sparkling water through the graciously sized hole in the ceiling.
With not a sound she found herself joining him in his training, quietly enjoying the time together as the nightly silence rapped around them like a gentle shroud.
Catching one of his punches she slipped and found Naruto on top of her. Hinata could feel her heart beating fiercely from their sparing and grow in pace faster as his warmth permeated her skin and bandages that wrapped her not so well-endowed chest. Slowly Hinata found Naruto inching closer to her his well-trained muscles from years of training applied greater pressure on her seventeen year old body. His lips approaching ever closer to hers, slowly but surly finding themselves inches away from hers. The soothing sent of ramon fill her senses as joyous anticipation filled her with excitement.
At the moment of contact Mikon's fist violently shot at her jaw jolting her from her desired sleep, shattering her blissful content.
Slightly dazed Mikon turned to see a half dressed Mikon sprawled out unceremoniously. Still dazed from the flailing and dreaming girls left fist Hinata gained enough awareness to dodge Mikon as she flipped over shooting her fist back up as she rolled over to re-occupy her own sleeping bag leveling her left leg to proclaim dominance over the lower half of Hinata's sleeping bag.
Hinata blushed as she realized that most of the girls cloths where sprawled all over the tend and what little she had remaining on her person did little to cover up herself.
Muttering in her sleep Hinata couldn't make out what was said but seeing the girl flail over again this time missing Kurenai by mere inches decided to wait until Mikon settled down to go back to sleep.
Exiting her tent Hinata made to sit down when she noticed the male tent lacked two occupants. Activating her Byakugan Hinata quickly spotted them a few meters away from the camp. Settling down near the dimming fire she waited as several minutes passed. At first she didn't question why the two where together seeing as how Jiraiya and Naruto where to be on lookout after Kurenai took the first shift but as what felt like a few hours past Hinata started to get worried.
Curiosity getting the better of her wonder why they had yet to change the shift Hinata made he way3 quietly to ask them. Just as she came within sight of them she could also make out their conversation as it was carried on the still night air.
"Any perticular reason you haven't told them yet?" Jiraiya asked. Hinata froze for a split second to listen.
"Not really, just knowing sensei she'd start keeping a closer eye on me out of consern. As for Hinata and Shino it just hasn't come up yet." Naruto replied.
Jiriaya nodded before sighing. "Well why don't you tell them now. It's bound to come up eventually and seeing as one of them seems to have woken up you might as well." he said with a slightly teasing tone.
Hinata gasped slightly in embarrassment as she came forward surprising Naruto. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to eavesdrop on your conversation. She bowed as she apologized as worry about how her actions might cause Naruto to feel.
"It's fine Hinata." Naruto said with a smile while Jiraiya gestured for her to join them.
"I'm guessing Mikon woke you up?" Jiraiya asked.
Nodding Hinata confirmed is thought as he shook his head clearly aware of the girls current state. "That girl. I swear the only time she sleeps peacefully is when she squeezing you to death Kid. Turning his head he smiled at Hinata as he god up form the branch he had been sitting on with Naruto.
"You actually came at a perfect time. I'll head back and cover the watch. Naruto try not to worry about what they might think and relax a bit. Anyway before you start practicing that jutsu I gave you again try talking about it, you'll thank me later." Jiraiya said in all seriousness, making his way to the campsite.
Hinata sat down and silently shot glances at him. This was the same naruto back form the academy who silently worked on whatever seal was present within the pages of his practice journal. Working up the courage she asked, "What where you practicing earlier?"
Naruto looked up at her confused causing Hinata to focus down on her hands. "Well Jiriaya-sama said you where practicing and I was curious... sorry." she said shyly.
Naruto smiled and showed her the palm of his hand. Upon it was a series of stranded marks in a pattern similar to that of a kaleidoscope in the shape of a diamond eched on his hand. At the center was an empty portion where a single dot was located. Hinata watched as the mark faded as Naruto witdrew his hand to explain.
"Jiji tough me how to use the Kanashibari no Jutsu and I've been trying to apply it to this Fuin Tenohira. Its surprisingly difficult."
J/N: Temporary Paralysis Jutsu and Palm Sealing (wanted a seal to explain several acts in the show like Minato's applying his mark on a target for his Hiraishin no Jutsu, basically Minato used this jutsu)
"I've never heard of the Fuin Tenohira. Why are you trying to apply the Kanashibari no Jutsu to it?" Hinata asked.
Naruto grinned as he placed his hand on top of hers. Instantly she blushed and on reflex pulled her hand back. She however was surprised when she couldn't move her hand from beneath his, in fact she realized she couldn't move at all. The moment Naruto removed his hand she found she could move again. Looking at him in amazement she shouted, "That was amazing Naruto-kun, did you just now...?"
Smiling he nodded as he raised his hand again. Pooling his chakra on his palm he revealed the seal and said, "Normally the Kanashibari no Justu requires handseals and skill to effect the target. By using the Fuin Tenohira mark I can activate the jutsu sealed in it instantly so long as I make contact with the target."
A brought his hand in front of him a smiled as he continued, "Right now I'm struggling to get it to work. As you saw right now it only works so long as the mark is constantly touching to person I want to use the jutsu on. But once I figure it out I can Paralyze anyone with a simple touch."
"What about when you improve? If I'm not wrong doesn't the strength of the Kanashibari no Jutsu depend on the users skill? Won't that effect its use when you improve or try to use it?" Hinata asked.
Naruto nodded, "Yeah it will. Jiji told me that the jutsu sealed inside wont improve or degrade and once I improve my skills with the jutsu I simply have to replace the jutsu by clearing the mark and swapping it out later. I guess its kinda like a storage seal in that regard."
"You really are amazing." Hinata muttered out as she looked down at herself.
Naruto noticing her slowly frowning quickly got up. "But you're even more amazing" he shouted causing her to look up at him and his grinning smile.
"I'm nothing like you are. Your so much more amazing then I am." Hinata argued.
Naruto racked his brains trying to find a way to explain just how amazing she was. Seeing her faced reminded him of his own expressions in the mirror before he met Ino and Mikon, before Jiraiya came into his life. Even when they where gone they celebrated his birthday, supported him, and reminded him that life was worth facing and smiling through.
"You really are though. I mean you have the byakugan which allows you to see things far away right. Not to mention that Style of yours that hurts a lot. Not even Shino can make my second guess attacking him like you do. Plus you're even able to keep up with me during training. Sure when we started your stamina blew out first but look at you now. Three months later and you able to keep up with me. No matter what happens even when you down you still push forward."
Hinata looked up as he was smiling his cheeky grin while clearly trying to come up with things to compliment her with. Even to her it was obvious he was trying to make her feel better. The best part was, it was working. A smile appeared and she rubbed her eyes trying not to let tears of joy ruin the moment. "Thanks, Naruto-kun."
Naruto blushed deeply as he saw her smile. The memory of Hinata during the genin gathering resurfaced as he tried to push it back. In an attempt to think of anything else a though occurred to him as he recalled all the compliments he gave.
"Hey, Hinata?" Naruto asked, "Why do you always strike with you hands?"
Hinata stared at him as Naruto mimicked her Jūken style. "I mean I don't think I've seen you use anything but you hands. I mean when I fight I use my elbows, knees, kicks, pretty much anything."
"Well that's because its the Hyuuga style. We release chakra from our hands to strike are opponents chakra network." Hinata started to explain.
Rubbing his head Naruto questioned, "Yeah but why only use you hands. I mean can't you do the same thing with like any other strike? I mean during tree climbing we had to release chakra through the soles of our feet. Doesn't that mean you can do a Jūken strike with other parts of your body?"
Hinata was about to deny the possibility but caught herself as the question seemed possible. Could she use the Jūken strike with other parts of her body? Juken required a controlled and focused blast of chakra to be released from the users tenketsu. If the tree walking exercise required releasing controlled amount of chakra through the soles of ones feet couldn't the same surgical like precision required for the Gentle Fist be used in the same way? As she started to question it the more it seemed possible to do.
Slowly Hinata opened her mouth and answered, "I-I think it could be possible. I don't think its ever been done before though."
Naruto smiled brilliantly as he began to jump up an down. "That's awesome, you could be like the first full body Juken user."
Hinata nearly fell back at Naruto excitement as she quickly shot him down. "No way, there's no way I could do that. It be like making a whole new style of fighting. Someone like me couldn't possible..."
"Sure you can. If someone like me who can't even master a basic jutsu like the clone jutsu can make his own style then someone as talented as you can surly do it." Naruto shouted proudly.
Hinata blushed as she twiddled her forefingers, "Y-you really think so?"
"Positive. There's no way you couldn't do, dattebayo!" Naruto declared as he grabbed her hand. "Come on, I'll help out."
"N-Naruto-kun!?" Hinata blushed out in distress. Naruto was holding her hand. Naruto was acturally holding her hand. Looking up at him Hinata stared at his focused gaze, happy and confident. As she looked she could feel the warmth of his hand reaching her cheeks. Slowly she relaxed and let herself be swept up in the feelings and go along with Naruto's plan.
Even if she couldn't do it, just being with Naruto who had absolute confidence in her was more then enough for her.
Throughout the night the two practiced, Hinata on trying to use the Juken style with various body parts while Naruto acted as her own personal punching bag. Eventually Hinata succumb to sleep and passed out. Picking her up Naruto snuck into the women's tent and placed Hinata in her sleeping bag which had apparently suffered from Mikon's constant assaults. Writing a quick repelling seal on the side where Mikon lay Naruto snuck back out and decided to sleep a little and enjoy the pleasant dreams he was positive he would have.
The next morning Naruto awoke and wasn't surprised to find Mikon had found herself on his sleeping bag. Noticing Shino and Jiraiya weren't present he slipped out from Mikon's Iron grip and headed out.
Spotting Jiraiya and Shino by the campfire he walked over to join them. Looking at Shino Naruto had trouble stiffiling a laughter as the Aburame was sporting a shiner under his left eye.
"Let me guess, Mikon?" Naruto asked still trying not to laugh. With a curt nod Naruto lost it and burst out laughing.
"Whats going on?" Hinata asked drowsily as she came out from her tent with Kurenai out right behind her.
"Shino got nailed by Mikon." Naruto stated presently rolling on the floor.
Kurenai sighed in exasperation at Naruto's shenanigans.
"Speaking of whom, where is Mikon?" Kurenai asked.
Jiraiya snickered as he pointed towards their tent. Puzzled Kurenai went over to investigate. Eyeing Naruto he brought his finger over his mouth while winking. Naruto quickly realized what he was doing and did his best not to make a peep.
Hinata noticing this was confused as she looked between the two of them. She was also curious as to when she had fallen asleep as the last thing she could remember was practicing with Naruto last night. A slight blush graced her cheeks.
"Good Lord! Mikon Umegaki! What do you think you're doing!?" Kurenai shrieked.
"WHAA! Kurenai-sensei what?... DAMN YOU JIJI!"
Naruto and Jiriya broke out in laughter as Shino looked down and Hinata blushign away as Mikon bolted back to her tent to retreive her missing cloths but giving enough time to give an evil eye towards Jiraiya.
"Ojisan, that was mean of you." Naruto coughed out.
"Maybe. But perhaps now she'll learn not to go sneaking into you tent when you're traveling." he laughed out. "Figured if she won't listen to me, Kurenai's surprise visit would teach her something."
Calming down Naruto retorted, "That might be true but you didn't figure one thing into your plan."
"Oh, and what would that be?"
"Angry Kurenai-senesi." Naruto muttered.
Looking up Jiraiya could see Kurenai glaring at him clearly demanding an explanation. Gulping slightly Jiraiya glanced at Naruto and agreed, "You know I think you're right."
For most of the remaining journey Jiraiya had tried to calm Kurenai down and had explained Mikon's quirk regarding sneaking into bed with Naruto as well as her more rambunctious sleeping habit of fighting everything and everyone in her sleep. Habits that despite Kurenai's best efforts couldn't be undone as even when keeping watch for her Mikon somehow managed to get past her watchful gaze. Though on their fourth night she did catch her only for Hinata to suffer that night, having to sleep outside less she be assaulted by Mikon's violent sleeping tendencies.
Watching the two of them go back and forth regarding him not stopping her and or suppressing her fighting habit in her sleep Naruto was left to snicker at his Ojisan's torment. He knew better then anyone the pointless endeavor that was stopping Mikon from odd sleeping quirks. Either she fought you in her sleep and punched you out or she would sneak into his bed and crush him in peaceful tranquility. The later of which he had gotten use to long ago.
Much to Jiriaya's please on the sixth day the group had reach the town where Jiraiya's informant was residing. Not missing a beat he grabbed Mikon and bid Team Eight farewell and dashing away before Kurenai could lecture him further.
Wait Jiji, I wanted to show Naruto and Hina-chan where the good vendors are, Wait a second damn it!" Mikon shouted as she fought the Sanin's grasp on her.
Kurenai shook her head in exasperation both out of missing her chance to reprehend the Sanin as well as the presentation that Mikon flailing down his back presented to onlookers who gazed to see what the commotion was about.
"Honestly, I'm surprised that someone like that is one of the Sanin." Kurenai muttered.
"He's surprisingly different from what I imagined." Hinata said.
Shino and Naruto both nodded in agreement. Whispering to Hinata and Shino Naruto muttered, "Though he's great to have around when training. I mean he helped a lot when we spared yesterday."
Again Shino and this time Hinata nodded in agreement.
"Seriously you think he would raise her better then that." Kureani complained turning to head in the direction of the border.
"It's not like he hasn't tried. Mikon always finds her way on top of me no matter what he does. Jiji even put a paralysis seal on her and she still managed to find her way into my room." Naruto stated trying to calm her down a bit. "I think he just wanted to embarrass her to see if she'd improve or not."
Kurenai gave him a look of disapproval to which Naruto quickly recognized. "I didn't say it would work. Even you had trouble stopping her. She not that good at stealth unless she's asleep or under a lot of pressure."
"Yet you knew this would happen." she stated.
"Yeah. At this point I don't even think about it. Use to it and all." Naruto muttered quickly realizing that wasn't something he should have said. Quickly changing the subject he asked. "Anyway, Kurenai-sensei how close are we to the border."
"We're not that far off Naruto, a few hours walk and we'll be able to see the Border Patrols Base of Operations. And don't think you off the hook just because you changed the subject."
Naruto gulped loudly at hearing this though he missed the teasing nature behind it that Hinata had no trouble picking up.
As the Team made their way into the forest area past the Town Naruto slowly felt his happy feelings slip away and be replaced with a slimy tar like sensation that ate at him as the walked. He felt it everywhere but strongly in whenever he faced directly in the direction of the dirt path they where walking on. Tension built in Naruto as the sensation grinded at his nerves.
"Naruto-kun, its okay you know. I think Kurenai was just kidding before." Hinata said picking up on Naruto's sudden spike in tension.
Naruto shook he head. "Something doesn't feel right. It feels sickish, slimy almost, like something bad is gonna happen here. I feel like I've felt it before." The tension seemed to bleed into an almost panicked tone as he spoke which caused Kurenai some slight concern.
Kurenai spoke calmly as she looked at Naruto. "Calm down Naruto, It's probably just nerves due to being so far out from the Land of Fire. We're close to our mission's destination so you don't have to worry to much. If anything happens we'll handle it as a Team."
Hinata smiled and nodded, "She right. We can do handle it as a team. Right Shino?"
Nodding Shino agreed, "The three of us are all capable ninja, we just have to –"
"DIE YOU DAMN LEAF SHINOBI!"
Instantly Kurenai Shino and Hinata spun around as an Iwa ninja came flying out from the left.
It happened in an instant, Three Iwa ninja came flying our from in front of them attacking in a blind rage surprising Team eight in the process. But no later did he finish that statement Kurenai's focused all of her senses to combat readiness. The moment she did however caused her to focus not on the Iwa shinobi but the flash of Orange that blurred through her field straight at the foremost Iwa Ninja.
It didn't even last a second in that single moment Naruto's Kunai was implanted into the charging Iwa's forehead. The wasn't even a sound, not so much as a gasp of surprise, only instant death. The Ninja's momentum aiding Naruto blade strait towards its goal.
The two Iwa Ninja paused for a moment in shock. Unsure of what happened their minds were left vulnerable to Kurenai's Genjutsu. The last thing they saw before passing out was demonic furry glaring down at its kill ready for to end the next threat.
Shino who was in mid process of unleashing his swarm was dumbfounded.
Hinata stood in shock as she stared at Naruto who was now struggling to pull his kunai out from its victim.
Kurenai still cautious looked in surprise at Naruto but then at the three Iwa shinobi. "What in the world was that about?" she asked herself before quickly shaking her head.
"You three battle formation. We're run to the Border patrol. Be on guard." Kurenai commanded.
Hinata and Shino remained silent as Naruto responded, "You got it, sensei."
Naruto wasn't smiling but nor was he scared. His face was focused with concern and kept his senses sharp.
Charging through the trees now Kurenai knew that something wasn't right. What was Iwa Shinobi doing attacking like that. She wondered if something happened. Concern building she sent a quick glance towards Naruto. Her questions seemed to only grow more.
Iwa Border
"How could this have happened."
"How should I know just run. We have to make back and tell everyone that Konoha's GYAAA!"
The young women with pink irises turned around in shock to watch a fellow shinobi was pierced clean through by a blood red spear.
"Suzu! Damn you, you bastard!" she shouted, turning in rage just as her remaining compatriot grabbed her by the waste, carrying her off before she could charge at their assailant.
"Let me go Akatsuchi!" the girl cried out defiantly pounding her fists on the rotund boys back. However the boy shook his head and calmly replied. "We can't win against him. The Chunin guarding the post where dropping like flies we have to run and tell the Tsuchikage!"
before the girl even got the chance to say a word a massive tailwind blew from behind them. Akatsuchi loosing his footing fell forward loosing his grip on the girl who rolled to a hard stop against a nearby tree. Pushing himself up he saw a man squatting mere inches from his face. Spinning the Crimson weapon haphazardly he smiled as he asked, "Hey kid, you wouldn't happen to have anything on some punk called Deidara would ya?"
Shorter this month due to heavy workload currently 11:11 and still haven't gotten the time to edit it. Oh-well Hope you all enjoy this chapter try not to hate how raw it is. Next month Shino gets his time (if it writes itself as I planned) in the spotlight.
Chapter 11: Freedom X Stone X Leaf
PS Happy Halloween to all and to the kids that came to my door wear some real costumes damn it. It's Halloween for peat-sake. Not Sports day at your local school (vexation face emote here)
Thank your for letting me vent.
-White
PS hope you all enjoyed the double chapters. Kinda surprised that Chapter 9 didn't go through last month and more surprised no body told me or even asked, Hey white wheres the post you promised this week. Meh go figure.