Author's note: Hello. Well, chapter 11 is finally here, and it's a long one, which is my way of trying to apologize for the long wait between updates. Before we begin, please allow me to get a few things out of the way. First and foremost, let me express my gratitude to all the readers who added this story to alerts and/or favorites, and the wonderful reviewers. THANK YOU SOO MUCH! You guys don't know how much your support means to me, so this I why I always start my author's notes with words of gratitude in case anyone was wondering.
Now then, let me say a few words about this chapter. Normally I just provide warnings and the like, but I actually want to comment on this chapter itself. This one is quite dialogue heavy. There are two reasons why I did this. One, I wanted to give the reader a bit of a breather after all the excitement of the last two chapters. Anyone who has read them knows what I'm talking about. Two, this chapter is the start of what is to come in this story, and once you finish reading it, I think you'll know what I mean.
Anyway, it's time to get this show on the road! And don't forget to read and review, please!
Disclaimer: Masashi Kishimoto owns Naruto and I don't. However, I do own several Chihuahua dogs.
WARNING: This chapter contains a smidgen of violence, cursing, yaoi and a bit of humiliation at someone else's expense. Reader discretion is advised…
11. Visitors
They ran together, their sleek coats of fur reflecting the shadow-dappled noon sunlight as it streamed through the treetops of the forest. Of the two animal demons, the female's fur was most noticeable. It was a mostly a bright pink shade with dark gray spots all over her body and white underbelly. She was a leopard demon, as graceful as she was powerful. Her bright green eyes flicked over to her companion.
"Are you sure this is the right way?" She asked in the language of demons.
The silver coyote running by her side answered, the slanted dark blue headband he always wore covering one eye, "Yes. We should be there soon. When you hear the waterfall, then we're close."
"OK." The leopardess tried to sound relaxed, but her tone revealed her anxiety.
"It'll be fine," the coyote said, trying to reassure his former student. "After all, it is Naruto we're talking about. He wouldn't have let something happen to him."
"I know, but with the Akatsuki being involved, things will be much harder..."
"Perhaps, but it won't be anything we can't handle," he spoke confidently, not allowing his own worry to show itself. He already knew it would be difficult but she didn't need to hear it aloud. Besides, she was a smart girl. He was sure she had already figured out that they might be running towards the fight of their lives.
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"... and that's basically what happened." Kakuzu said, finishing his account of what had occurred in Kusa village. He and Hidan were seated at the stone table in the meeting room along with Pein, who had listened intently throughout.
Kakuzu glanced at Hidan, who was face-down on the table. "Is there anything you want to add, Hidan?"
"Yes. When can I leave?" He picked up his head and scowled at his partner. Hidan didn't like recounting missions and didn't see the need for him to be here too.
"Is that all, Hidan?" Pein asked him.
"No." Hidan cast his gaze across the surface of the table. Normally, it was spotless, but today was a different story. It was littered with notebooks, pens, open books, and various office supplies. "Why do you have all your shit on the table? Don't you have an office or something?"
"Yes, and I used to refer to it as my 'study', not 'office'." Pein said.
"What-fucking-ever," Hidan rolled his eyes. He didn't see the difference between the words. "So, why are you here and not there?"
Pein sighed, remembering the tainted room. "That is none of your business."
"Oh, come on! Don't be such a bitch, Leader. Tell us!"
Pein pinched the bridge of his pierced nose, trying to keep calm. "If I tell you, you will drop the subject and never bring it up again, understand?"
Hidan shrugged, "I guess." He wasn't making any promises.
"Something rather disturbing happened in there."
"Disturbing how?" Kakuzu inquired, now curious.
To the partners' surprise, their leader began to look visibly uncomfortable. It was the first time either had ever seen that occurrence. "There was some damage to the desk after Itachi and the Kyuubi... borrowed it."
There was a silence as this information set in. Hidan blinked, "Are you saying that Itachi fucked Naruto on your desk?"
Pein lowered his head, but didn't speak.
Kakuzu and Hidan exchanged a look before bringing their focus back to Pein, who wouldn't meet their eyes. The corner of Hidan's mouth twitched slightly and he covered his mouth with his hands. But it was no use. A small chuckle escaped, followed by another. And another. Within seconds his loud laughter echoed through the room. He laughed so hard that he fell off his chair and lay on the floor, holding his stomach. "Hahaha! That shit is fucking hilarious!"
Humiliation flashed across Pein's face for an instant but he remained silent as he listened to Hidan's sudden outburst of mirth at his expense. Kakuzu found what happened amusing as well, but unlike Hidan, he wasn't the type of person to be rolling on the floor laughing out loud. Instead, he cleared his throat and spoke, "I'm sorry, Leader-sama. I know how fond you were of that desk."
"Thank you, Kakuzu." Pein replied, still not meeting the eyes of his subordinate. He decided to change the subject. "Is that all you needed to tell me regarding the information given to you by the imp?"
"Yes. I've told you exactly what we were told."
Pein nodded. "Good. I will begin cataloguing this information as well as deciding what must be done about it." He glanced at Hidan, who was now climbing back into his chair, his last few chuckles subsiding. "You are both excused now. Please leave me to my work."
Kakuzu stood and bowed to the man before leaving with out another word.
"Sure. Whatever you say, Leader." Hidan said, backing up from the table and leaving the room. He strode down the hallways, heading for Itachi's room. Just as he arrived, Itachi opened the door, on his way out.
Noticing Hidan's mischievous smirk, Itachi regarded him somewhat warily. "Why are you grinning at me like an idiot, Hidan?"
"I just heard about the fun you and Naruto had on Leader's desk..."
"What about it?" Dark eyes narrowed slightly.
"You're a fucking genius!"
Itachi just blinked, "What?"
Hidan's grin widened, "You're the man, Itachi! I have never seen Pein so weird and embarrassed and all that shit! I've tried so many different things... insults, taunts, you name it, I've probably done it to piss Pein off, but you found his greatest weakness," he bowed to Itachi, "You're my hero!"
"Thanks... I guess." The Uchiha did not understand Hidan's praise, but also didn't see the need to question the other man further.
"You're welcome. Just keep up the good fucking work!" Hidan punched Itachi playfully on the arm before leaving. Itachi merely watched him, wondering if the expletive had a double meaning.
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Outside, Naruto narrowed his eyes, focusing intently on the paper target pinned to the tree. He twirled a kunai in his right hand for several revolutions before he launched the weapon at the target. The kunai flew forward and lodged itself about a few inches to the right of the center of the target. Naruto frowned at the sight.
"Not bad, Naruto-kun, but you're a little off center."
Naruto turned around, grinning at the sight of Itachi, "Why don't you show me how it's done?" He offered a kunai to his lover.
"I'd love to," Itachi accepted the throwing knife and took a few steps back. With no apparent effort and an easy flick of his wrist, he sent the kunai flying towards the center of the target. It hit dead-on. Itachi smirked, "See? Easy."
Naruto blinked, "How did you do that?"
"Lots of practice."
"Obviously. Can you hit any target?"
Itachi thought about it before replying, "Probably."
"All right, then. Let's see," Naruto strode away from the Uchiha and stood in front of the tree. He pulled out the two kunai from it and leaned back against the bark before he grinned mischievously, "See if you can pin my jacket to the tree without cutting me. If you do, then you really can hit anything."
Itachi raised an eyebrow, amused, "And what do I get if I succeed?"
"Whatever you want," Naruto purred.
"Then I accept your challenge, Naruto-kun."
Itachi reached out and took the kunai from Naruto, who raised his arms slightly and waited. The Kyuubi wasn't really sure why he was doing this, but it was likely because he was bored. Since his and Itachi's return to the Akatsuki, the two of them no longer received missions to do. They spent a bulk of their time with each other, and although it was nice, Naruto still wanted to do something interesting. And to him, nothing was more interesting than a dash of danger to a normally mundane training session.
As for Itachi, he already knew beyond a doubt that no harm would come to Naruto. He had trained with throwing knives for years and was beyond excellent. His aim was simply perfect and had been for quite some time.
Naruto waited as Itachi lined up his shot, his dark eyes narrowed slightly in concentration. Itachi took a breath and exhaled, flicking his wrist and sending the kunai flying right at Naruto. The Kyuubi closed his eyes involuntarily and heard a thump, followed by a faint pinch as the kunai pierced the orange cloth and firmly stuck itself into the tree, completely avoiding his skin.
Blue eyes opened, revealing amazement. He was about to compliment Itachi on his incredible skill, but before the words could come out, another series of kunai flew at him, all connecting solidly with the tree. Naruto counted five more thumps and could feel as his jacket was pulled tautly against his body as he was successfully pinned to the tree without a scratch.
Itachi smirked, "How was that?"
"Amazing!" Naruto cheered, "I've never seen anything like that before. You're incredible!"
"Incredible, huh? Isn't that what you told me last night?"
Naruto blushed faintly at the memory, "Well, yeah, but I'm talking about this now."
"I know. I just like to see you blush," Itachi smiled and approached Naruto, studying the trapped demon. Each of Naruto's loose sleeves was pinned once at the outside of his shoulder. Four more kunai were in two neat pairs at his ribcage, one set beneath his arms and the other at his waist, securely holding him in place. "Can you move, Naruto-kun?"
Naruto struggled, "Kind of. Where did you get the four other kunai, anyway? I just gave you two?"
"I had the other four in my pocket," Itachi replied, invading Naruto's personal space. "You know, Naruto-kun, you look good pinned down like that..."
"Yeah? And what are you going to do about it?" Naruto asked, a challenge in his eyes.
"Wait and see," Itachi leaned forward and kissed the trapped fox demon.
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Hidden in a thick clump of ferns, a pair of green eyes widened at the scene in front of them, unsure of what to do or even think about what was going on. Next to the green-eyed leopardess, the coyote blinked his single visible eye, very confused. As one, both demons looked at each other and shared the same sentiment, What the fuck is going on here?!
One minute they were target-practicing with the tree, the next, Naruto was being used for said practice, and now, the Akatsuki member was making out with him... Why in the name of all that was demonic was this happening?! Why was Naruto, the strongest tailed-beast there was, letting a human demon hunter kiss and touch him like that?! Had he gone crazy?!
With an unusual degree of difficulty, the leopardess spoke softly, "W-what do we d-do now?"
The coyote blinked away his shock, remembering their mission objective, "Let's do what we came here for. We need to."
"Right," the leopardess agreed, getting into her battle stance. The coyote did the same. Their eyes met and they nodded, knowing what needed to happen next.
Together, they mentally counted down.
3...
2...
1...
Now!
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Itachi sensed the attack before he saw it. He pulled away from Naruto abruptly just as two large animal demons swiftly advanced toward him, savage snarls fixed on their faces.
The pink leopardess roared, "Get away from Naruto!"
"Right now!" the coyote howled angrily by her side.
Itachi didn't waste any time in dodging their sudden assault. He performed a back flip to evade the claws of the leopardess. Her razor-claws ripped deep furrows into the earth, hinting at her strength. The coyote lunged forward after her, his gleaming fangs slicing off the end portion of Itachi's cloak. The coyote spit out the fabric and anger blazed in his eye when he realized he didn't get his target.
Adrenaline pumped through Itachi's veins like molten steel. He had nearly been caught! These demons meant business! Strategies for fighting the pair flitted through Itachi's mind. It was obvious that the two knew how to battle as a team. Perhaps if he could take them out individually, he might win. But how? That was the real question.
As one, the two demons approached Itachi menacingly. For each step they took, Itachi took one backward, trying to distance himself from the pair. Although Itachi knew to never take his eyes off his opponents, just for a second, he glanced over at Naruto, checking to see if he had been attacked. But Naruto hadn't. Instead, he just stared open-mouthed at the two demons, as if in shock.
"Sakura-chan? Kakashi-sensei? Is that you?" Naruto asked in disbelief, still pinned to the tree.
Upon hearing the names, both demons whipped their heads around, looking at Naruto.
"It is you guys!" Naruto exclaimed excitedly, but then he snapped, "What the hell is wrong with you?! Why are you attacking Itachi?!"
Without waiting for an answer, Naruto's blue eyes glowed crimson. His teeth elongated into sharp points and an oppressive chakra filled the air as he began to transform into his fox form. His demon energy burned through the tree and the kunai that held him in place fell to the earth. Once free, Naruto flew forward and landed on all four paws, all nine golden tails raised in challenge.
He snarled, "If you want to get at him, you will have to go through me first!"
The two demons eyed him warily, but didn't leave. They couldn't. Not without Naruto.
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Inside the Akatsuki's base, everyone was unaware of the fight brewing outside. Pein especially was oblivious. He was deeply absorbed in plotting what to do about Orochimaru's army and the world around him had simply ceased to exist. After all, it's not every day you find out that there's a homicidal demon capturing entire villages to fuel a blood-thirsty demonic army that would kill and destroy everything in sight if given the chance.
Due to his intense focus, Pein didn't sense the peculiar, but darkly familiar chakra that approached the door to his make-shift office. If he had been paying attention, he would have been prepared for the ensuing argument, for there was always a conflict with this particular individual.
The door knob turned, allowing the door to glide open soundlessly. Silent feet padded up to the chair directly across the stone table from Pein, who had his head down as he furiously scrawled in one of his notebooks.
The hooded visitor watched him for some moments, not saying or doing anything, but was still extremely irked to see the supposed 'leader' of the Akatsuki ignoring him. The visitor flexed his gloved fingers into fists and focused his chakra, flaring it outward around him, creating a strangely ominous force.
The pressure in the air increased dramatically in a few seconds and Pein felt it. He finally looked up, and gasped, "Madara-sama, what are you doing here?"
The newcomer called Madara pulled down his hood, revealing an odd orange mask with only one eye hole and spirals etched in its surface. When he spoke, his voice was deep and coldly confident, "You are not to address me by name, understand? I am your superior, as I have always been. Call me what I really am."
Pein stood quickly, his chair scraping loudly against the marble floor. "Yes, of course, Leader-sama." He bowed, sounding more than a little flustered, "I'm very sorry to have disrespected you in such an impertinent way. I should have known better."
Madara nodded, "Yes, you should have."
"Leader-sama, what are you doing here?" Pein asked again.
"That's such an excellent question," Madara said lightly, mocking Pein, who flushed and lowered his head. Suddenly, Madara slammed a gloved fist onto the table, sending a spider web of cracks running through the smooth stone, "I'm here to fix the mistakes of a failure that has the nerve to say that he's the leader of Akatsuki when really he's just an inept, cowardly orphan who pretends he knows what to do!"
Pein flinched, "I'm sorry, Leader-sama. I've tried my best..."
"Your best?!" Madara raged, "You call that your best?! I gave you two simple tasks to accomplish; lead the Akatsuki in my place and capture the tailed beasts. But no, you couldn't do either! You're as incompetent as ever!"
"I have led the Akatsuki to the best of my ability," Pein said weakly as he tried to defend himself. "The tailed beasts have proven to be more... resilient than I thought they would be."
"Of course they're resilient! Any idiot could have told you that!" Madara snorted in contempt, "After hearing your pathetic excuses for your chronic stupidity, I see why nothing ever gets done around here. You don't know how to handle the responsibility of leadership. Furthermore, I –"
The sound of gentle knocking interrupted Madara mid-rant. He glared at the door and ordered Pein to open it. Pein did so, allowing a small smile to appear on his face at the sight of Konan standing there. She would be able to help him. She always did.
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Outside, Naruto's eyes were locked onto the two demons as he stood in front of Itachi. His lips were pulled back, exposing all his sharp fangs.
The leopardess could feel her resolve to fight weakening as she gazed at Naruto. In her mind, she saw flashbacks of Naruto and her as they grew up together in the Land of Whirlpools. She remembered his constant kindness to her and his perpetually upbeat demeanor. Why are we fighting now? She thought desperately, Does this really need to happen?
As if hearing her thoughts, the coyote relaxed his face and sat down. His bristling silver fur lowered slowly as he calmly spoke to the Kyuubi, "Naruto, we don't have to fight. Let's talk this out."
Naruto's golden ears twitched, "Then let's talk, but you and Sakura-chan transform first. I want Itachi to understand what we're saying."
"Fair enough," the coyote demon, Kakashi Hatake, said. He found it odd how Naruto referred to the human by name, but dismissed it. He was sure he'd find out the answer soon enough. "Sakura, you know what to do."
Sakura Haruno nodded once and the leopardess demon transformed in a flurry of pink chakra. Kakashi did the same, and in a blur of silvery-blue chakra, transformed. Satisfied, Naruto followed suit.
Itachi merely blinked at the sight before him, barely able to comprehend it. He brought his gaze from Naruto, then to a man with silver hair wearing a dark blue headband that covered his left eye and a mask that concealed half his face, and a teenage girl with shoulder-length pink hair and bright green eyes. Both demons wore green flak jackets with red spirals on the back, identifying them as being from the Land of Whirlpools. In their human forms, they looked a lot less threatening than they did before, but from the way their eyes were fixed on him, Itachi could tell they weren't going to be any friendlier to him.
"That's better," Naruto said, pleased. "Now, go ahead and tell us why you two are here."
"The Land of Whirlpools is in crisis, as are all the demon lands," Kakashi said. "And we need our king to lead us."
"We're here to bring you back, Naruto." Sakura added softly.
Naruto's eyes widened, but it was obvious he did know what they meant by "our king".
Itachi, however, was tired of not understanding any of what was going on, "What are you talking about? What king? And who are you? How is it that you know Naruto-kun? Why were you attacking us and what made you stop? What the hell is going on?"
"We could ask you the same thing, human." Kakashi growled, referencing the last question. "You're clearly Akatsuki, yet here you are with Naruto, the Kyuubi. Why are you keeping him here against his will? Isn't it your supposed 'noble duty' to kill him?"
"Stop it, Kakashi-sensei. Don't pick a fight with Itachi." Naruto frowned at the other male demon that had begun glaring at Itachi. The Uchiha simply glared right back.
"Naruto, please just tell us what's going on." Sakura said, trying to diffuse the potentially explosive situation. She spoke hesitatingly, "Who is this human and what is his connection to you?"
Naruto grinned, happy to answer his friend's question. "His name is Itachi Uchiha, and although he is a member of the Akatsuki, he is also my mate."
Sakura and Kakashi exchanged a look of incredulity, "Your what?!"
"My mate," repeated Naruto proudly. He trotted up to Itachi and pecked him on the lips, earning a smile from Itachi. Naruto pulled down the collar of his jacket and shirt, revealing a bite-mark shaped scar on the left side of the base of his neck. He nudged Itachi, who nodded in understanding and unbuttoned his cloak enough to show off the bite-mark he had as well.
"See?" Naruto asked them. "It's official. We've already marked each other."
"I do see, but I'm still having a hard time believing it." Kakashi replied. Next to him, Sakura just stared. She didn't want to believe it herself. Sakura had always thought that one day she and Naruto would become mates. Growing up, he had always had a huge crush on her and would ask her on a date every chance he had. Although Sakura had said no most of the time, she had still thought that, ultimately, they would be together eventually. Seeing the markings on Naruto had completely shattered that idea.
"Why do you seem so shocked?" Itachi asked the gaping demons. "Is it because we're both males?"
"Of course not!" Kakashi replied, offended at the suggestion. "We demons aren't as close-minded as some of the humans are. Gender doesn't matter to our kind. The only thing that I don't understand is why. You're a human and Naruto is a demon. You're supposed to hunt us, and instead you've selected a mate who I'm sure is at the top of the hunted list. Can you blame us for our surprise?"
"Since you've explained it like that... no, I can't say I blame you." Itachi brought his gaze from Kakashi to Sakura. The girl just stared at him, a peculiar expression on her face. Itachi wasn't sure what to make of it, so he changed the subject, "Who are you two and why are you here?"
"My name is Kakashi Hatake and I am Naruto's first sensei," he said before gesturing to his companion, "and this is Sakura Haruno, a student of mine and a close friend of Naruto's. We are from the Land of Whirlpools, here for what we what originally thought was a rescue mission to save Naruto Uzumaki from the clutches of the dreaded Akatsuki," he explained, flicking his eye back to Naruto, who looked a bit sheepish. "Naruto, I'm guessing you didn't tell your mate who you really are yet, so do it now."
"But Kakashi-sensei!"
"No buts, Naruto." Kakashi said sternly. "Tell him. It's important to our people."
Itachi put a reassuring hand on the blond's shoulder, "It's all right, Naruto-kun. You know you can tell me anything and it won't change how I feel about you."
Sakura merely watched as Naruto grinned, confidence restored. A small smile played at the corners of her mouth as she heard her friend speak. "Well, Itachi, you already know I'm the Kyuubi, but I'm also the king of all the demons in the Land of Whirlpools."
"Actually," Kakashi interjected, "you're technically the rightful king of all the demons and all the humans."
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"Hello, Pein-sama," Konan greeted the orange-haired man, immediately noticing how uneasy he appeared to be. She stepped into the meeting room and closed the door behind her. Her amber eyes quickly found the cause of his distress.
Addressing the masked man, she bowed, "Leader-sama, how lovely to see you here."
Madara's tone changed while speaking to the woman, "Konan, what a pleasant surprise!" he said brightly, his earlier anger seeming to have disappeared entirely, "At last I can speak to another intelligent human being!"
Upon hearing the indirect insult, Pein merely sighed. He couldn't talk back to this man. He simply had no choice but to endure Madara's snide comments and remarks. And besides, it's not as if this was the first time this happened. Having had dealt with Madara since he was fourteen years old, Pein had lots of practice.
But for Konan, it was always different. Madara never seemed to yell at her or get terribly angry. And for that, Pein was thankful. He'd rather be the one to bear the burden of Madara's malice than have her do it.
Keeping her tone as respectful as possible, Konan spoke, "Leader-sama, although it's always nice to see you, how did you manage to get here without attracting anyone else's attention?"
"I used my usual method," Madara replied smoothly. To demonstrate, he made a series of swift hand signs before disappearing in a dark blur. He reappeared right behind Konan, close enough to make her feel uncomfortable, "See?" He asked. "All I need to do is think about it and I can teleport anywhere I want to be. In this particular visit, I thought about the main hallway and now here I am paying a visit to my darling Konan and her incompetent friend."
Konan drew away, nearing Pein. "Don't speak about Pein-sama like that, Leader-sama. He is most certainly not incompetent. In fact, he is very capable and determined, and has led the Akatsuki well."
"Pein-sama?" Madara repeated, completing ignoring Konan's supportive words about the other man. He looked at Pein, "Is that what you call yourself now?"
Pein lowered his eyes, "Yes."
"Why? Your real name wasn't good enough for you anymore?" Madara questioned with his usual sharpness. "Yahiko... that's what you introduced yourself as when I rescued you and
Konan from that orphanage when you were fourteen, all those many years ago. "
Memory flooded both Konan and Pein's mind at the thought. They both could never forget that day. A day that changed their young lives forever...
Theirs and a young, timid boy's known as Nagato...
Pein pushed aside his memories, focusing on the masked man in front of him, "I changed my name because I am no longer that same boy. I have grown up."
"If you say so..." Madara replied dismissively before a thought occurred to him. Even though his mask concealed his eyes, he stared intently at Pein's striped eyes. "On second thought, I think I do understand how you think you've changed. It's those eyes you now possess."
The aforementioned orbs blinked once, "Perhaps they did have something to do with it. But the circumstances surrounding them were enough to change anyone."
Madara nodded. "Indeed, they were," he folded his arms, "but now is not the time for discussion about that which occurred many years ago. I'm more interested in the present."
"What do you wish to know?" Konan asked, grateful he was changing to the subject to something less painful to remember.
"Many things, but above all, why hasn't the Kyuubi been properly dealt with? Zetsu informed me that he was indeed in the custody of the Akatsuki."
Of course Zetsu had told Madara what was going on. Whenever he wasn't reporting to Pein, Zetsu was reporting to Madara. Neither Konan nor Pein replied immediately. They simply looked at each other, both unsure of how to explain what had happened.
"Well?" Madara prompted them, more than a hint of impatience creeping into his voice. "Are you going to tell me or not?"
"It's a long story..." Pein replied lamely.
"Then I suggest you start telling it," Madara answered, striding over to the largest chair at the stone table, the one Pein himself normally occupied. The masked man sat down, glancing at both of his subordinates, "I'm waiting."
"Very well, then." Pein said nervously. He felt a gentle tug on his sleeve before Konan's warm hand slipped into his own. She gave him a reassuring squeeze, wordlessly reminding him that she was there for him, just like she always had been... and always would be, no matter how difficult circumstances were.
His confidence restored, Pein began, "It all started when I gave orders to Kisame Hoshigaki and Itachi Uchiha to apprehend the Kyuubi after another one of my subordinates had failed for the second time..."
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Itachi blinked, "King?"
"That's right. King," Kakashi confirmed.
"How is that even possible?" Itachi asked the coyote demon, but stared at Naruto, who wouldn't look his way.
"Demon law," Kakashi answered simply. Itachi just frowned, still not understanding. He continued, "There are three classes of demons in our world. They are ranked according to level of power. The weakest and considered to be the lowest tier are the so-called 'creature' demons, consisting of imps and other small demons. The middle tier belongs to us," Kakashi gestured to Sakura and himself, "We are animal demons of average strength, which, to be perfectly honest, is still very considerable and dangerous. At the very top of the hierarchy are the tailed-beasts. They occupy the smallest group, but are powerful enough to command all other demons. Their strength is determined by number of tails. The more tails a tailed-beast has, the stronger it is. "
Itachi nodded, taking this information in. "So, then since Naruto is the Kyuubi, he is the strongest of all demons?"
"Yes."
"But how does that make him king?"
"In demon society, we do not pick our rulers by voting or any such thing. Our society is too naturally combative for elections, so strength determines the ruling class. For instance, the Land of Whirlpools was ruled originally by the late Minato Namikaze, Naruto's father and my sensei when I was growing up. Minato was the strongest demon in the land, so the right to rule was automatically granted to him. Of course, he did receive a few challenges from others, but he never lost his kingship because he was not defeated in battle by anybody who sought control of our lands. At the time of his death, Minato's title was passed on to Naruto, the last remaining nine-tailed fox, the strongest of demons."
"I understand, but how does Naruto-kun rule over the humans as well as the demons? I've always thought the humans ruled themselves." Itachi said.
To the Uchiha's surprise, Kakashi uttered a short laugh of amusement that sounded similar to a coyote's bark. "The humans don't rule themselves. Who gave you that idea?"
"No one. I had just thought..."
"It's all right. I think I understand why you were under that impression," Kakashi shook his head, "Humans and their superiority complexes. Thinking they are in charge of everything..."
Itachi's left eyebrow twitched in annoyance. Kakashi noticed, so he asked the human a question, "Haven't you noticed that the humans never seem to fight amongst themselves, but the demons are usually fighting each other? There is a reason for that."
"What is it?"
"The demons fight for the humans and settle their disagreements on their behalves. For example, if two human villages are having a tiff over land, the leader of the humans of each village will tell the demon leaders in the area about it. The demons leaders will then settle the problem, usually with fighting or occasionally negotiating with their demon troops. Once the problem is settled, the human leaders pay a tribute to the demon lords for helping them."
"Basically," Sakura said, "the demons look out for the humans and take care of their problems because they don't want the humans to fight one another. The demons in charge consider the humans on their territories to be under their watch, and so take necessary steps to prevent them from fighting, like a parent moderating between his or her children."
Itachi was astonished by Sakura and Kakashi's words. As a member of Akatsuki, he had seen instances only of humans get attacking by demons, not being looked after. It didn't make sense to him. "But why do the demons attack the humans then?"
Kakashi shrugged, "I can't say for sure, but I think it's because not all demons are happy with the arrangement. They don't like having to 'babysit' the humans and so they lash out at them. Many demons simply hate the humans for being around. They remember the days before humans existed in these lands..."
"What?"
"Yes. A thousand years ago, this continent was inhabited solely by demons of all kinds. Then humans began to arrive from across the ocean. They liked these lands and tried to take them over, but they were not able to fight off the demons. The tailed-beasts did not get angry and instead took pity on them and decided they needed to be looked after. Each tailed-beast gave the humans land in their territories to create their villages under the condition that they would listen to their demonic rulers. The humans accepted, and for time, all was well." Kakashi sighed, "But as time passed, some humans grew discontent with this arrangement and tried to fight the demons once again. They failed, but their efforts angered many lower and middle-class demons. Those few demons began to hate the humans for their ungrateful ways and so for the past few hundred years, select bands of demons began to attack the humans. But, the tailed-beasts and their descendants always honored their decision to look after the humans. Just as it is their duty to rule the other demons responsibly and keep them safe, it is now considered to the sacred duty of the tailed-beasts to keep the humans safe too."
For several minutes, Itachi was silent. It felt as though everything he had thought he knew about the world had been completely turned upside down. In the back of his mind, he suspected that he had heard only the truth from Kakashi and Sakura but he was still stunned. Itachi glanced at Naruto for reassurance that this wasn't some crazy dream.
"It's all true, Itachi." Naruto said softly, understanding the confusion on the dark-haired man's face, "Everything Kakashi-sensei and Sakura-chan said is true. The demons protect the humans and the strongest demons rule over them all. I rule over them all..."
"And now we need you back, Naruto." Sakura's voice was even, but there was an undertone of pleading. "There is a threat to our people and nobody feels safe without their true king to guide them. We need you, Naruto."
Naruto bit his lip, but he still asked, "What happened, Sakura-chan?"
"Orochimaru, the self-proclaimed 'Snake King', is amassing an army to the north-east. He is gathering all the demon tribes who tire of the tailed-beast rule as well as forcing many to join his cause. From the intelligence gathered, he wants to take over every village there is, human and demon alike. Seven of the nine tailed-beasts have also mysteriously disappeared. Many demon villages no longer have rulers so there is mass confusion and battles for power," Sakura paused, her green eyes reflecting her worry, but also her hope. "Kakashi-sensei and I believe that if you come home and our people see you taking charge, there won't be any more fighting and we will be able to stop Orochimaru."
"Naruto," Kakashi said, "I know this isn't easy for you. Truly, it was not our intention to cause you distress, but we need you back. Our people need you."
"But... what about Itachi?" Naruto asked. Anguish filled his voice. "I don't want to leave him..."
"I'm sorry, Naruto," Sakura said, "but we need you more."
The wind whipping through the rustling leaves was the only sound in the clearing. Kakashi and Sakura stood together, watching Naruto. They knew he was torn right now. He had just been given the choice between staying with Itachi and leaving to save his homeland, friends, and all who resided on the continent.
Suddenly, the silence was broken.
"No," Naruto cried loudly, blue eyes sparkling with tears, "you can't make me choose between you guys and Itachi." He shook his head furiously, trying to clear away the moisture on his cheeks, "I'm not going to choose!"
"But, Naruto," Kakashi replied, "this isn't just about you. This is about everyone!"
"I know that!" Naruto shouted back.
"You cannot avoid your responsibility!" Kakashi growled at him. "I can't be king anymore! When you left the Land of Whirlpools six months ago, you left me in charge and said you would come back one day. Well, now is the time. We need you back!"
"Don't yell at him, Kakashi!" Sakura cried. "Things are hard enough for him!" Her green eyes flitted back to her friend's, allowing her to see the torment in those normally happy blue eyes. She sighed and spoke softly to him, "Please, Naruto. Please don't forget who you are."
At the girl's words, a memory floated to the surface of Naruto's mind. He recalled the dying words of the little imp Yoji before he was so mercilessly slain by Kabuto. At the time, Naruto hadn't understood what Yoji meant about not forgetting who he was, but now, he finally knew. It was the Kyuubi's duty to protect not just the humans, but the demons too. This is what Naruto needed to do. An overwhelming sense of resolve filled his being at the thought. Not only did he need to protect them all, he truly wanted to keep them all safe. He would do it for Yoji. For Sakura, for Kakashi... and Itachi, even if meant being apart from him.
Naruto turned to the Uchiha, who had remained silent but tense as he listened to the exchange between all three demons. "Itachi..." the Kyuubi began.
"I know, Naruto-kun." Itachi said, unmindful of the listening coyote and leopardess demons. "You need to go protect your friends, who are more like your family than anything else. You need to protect your kingdom and your subjects. I know."
Suddenly, Itachi grabbed Naruto and held him close, burying his face in soft, spikey, blond hair. Tears pricked the back of his dark eyes, but he did not cry. "Naruto-kun, I love you. I want you with me always, but I'm not going to force you to stay with me. And..." he tightened his hold on Naruto, whose heart ached as he listened to Itachi, "I can't let you lose your family to Orochimaru. He has already taken my family and I cannot keep you here knowing that he will take yours too. You must return to the Land of Whirlpools."
"Itachi, I love you." Naruto choked out, his face pressed into Itachi's neck.
"And you know I love you, Naruto-kun." Itachi gently kissed Naruto's head. "Go with my blessing."
Naruto slowly pulled away from the Uchiha. He took a deep breath and wiped away the stray tears that managed to escape without his permission. He plastered a smile on his face but it didn't look real in the slightest. Kakashi and Sakura both noticed.
"I guess we should go now, huh?" Naruto said, that same watery smile fixed on his face. He did not look at Itachi, who looked at the ground.
"I guess so..."Kakashi agreed, not believing that Naruto would be so accepting of leaving Itachi. Sure enough, just as the silver-haired demon turned on his heels, he heard Naruto asked a surprising question.
"Kakashi, can Itachi come with us?" Kakashi stopped, listening as Naruto continued. "Listen, Itachi isn't like other humans. He's really, really strong and doesn't need anyone to protect him. I'm sure he can handle it. He can fight with us."
Kakashi sighed and turned around, "Naruto, you know we can't just bring him along with us."
"Why not?" Naruto asked his first sensei.
"Because..." Kakashi began, but the more he thought about it, he couldn't really think of a good answer to give Naruto.
To everyone's surprise, Sakura spoke up. "I think it's a good idea to bring the human... Itachi, I mean." She smiled at the Uchiha, then Naruto before continuing. "I can see that Itachi is strong and surely even you have sensed it, Kakashi-sensei. And remember, we need all the help we can get against Orochimaru."
A small smile formed underneath Kakashi's mask. He had known Sakura had been shaken up when she found out about Naruto's relationship with Itachi but now it seemed she was perfectly fine with it. She even seemed happy for Naruto. Kakashi was proud of her. "You know," he said to his students, "it's all well and good that you two agree on this, but have you actually asked the human?"
Sakura and Naruto exchanged a sheepish glance and Kakashi thought it made them look like the children they had once been. It made his smile a little bigger. He addressed Itachi, "So, I'm sure you've been listening to what we just said. Do you want to travel with us to the Land of Whirlpools?"
"Yes." There was no hesitation in Itachi's reply. "If you will allow me to go, then I will go. Gladly."
"You're brave, human." Kakashi remarked, not at all surprised by the Uchiha's answer. "You do know that we're traveling to the heart of the demon lands, right? There are no other humans in our village and it's very unlikely you will receive a warm welcome from the other demons. If anything, everyone will likely shun you. In a sense, you'll be all alone."
"I don't care about any of that," Itachi answered smoothly, "I'll be fine and since I'll be with Naruto, I won't be alone."
"And what about the Akatsuki? I don't think you can just leave so suddenly."
"Actually, I was already planning to leave the Akatsuki with Naruto-kun. I didn't know where we would go, but now I do."
"I see..." Kakashi eyed him carefully. The coyote demon knew the human was serious about everything he said and could be trusted. And besides, Kakashi himself knew that humans could indeed be relied on. He had experience with such things. "All right, I don't see why you can't come, human."
"Itachi," he corrected. "My name is Itachi Uchiha."
"Uchiha?" Kakashi repeated, suddenly interested. "You're part of the Uchiha clan?"
"I am the last living member. What of it?"
Instead of replying, Kakashi lifted his slanted navy blue headband, uncovering his scarred, closed left eye. He opened his eye, revealing an all too familiar red iris with three black tomoe around the pupil.
Itachi gasped, "You have a Sharingan?"
"Just like you." Kakashi confirmed.
"But how?"
"It was given to me by an Uchiha member when I was hardly more than a child many, many years ago. The Uchiha was named Obito, and he saved my life when I was captured by humans near the village of Konoha. Although I lost my own left eye in the struggle, he set me free and soon became my friend. One day, Obito asked me to accompany him to rescue his friend Rin who had been taken by bandits. I agreed, and together we saved Rin. But when we were leaving the bandit's hideout, a trap was activated and a rockslide occurred. Obito pushed me and Rin to safety, but the rocks hit him and crushed the right side of his body." Kakashi paused, a note of sorrow creeping into his voice, "Of course, he did not survive. But before he died, he wanted me to have his Sharingan eye as a token of his appreciation for our friendship. Rin knew a variety of medical techniques and did the transplant before she returned to Konoha and I went back to the Land of Whirlpools."
Obito Uchiha, Itachi repeated the name in his mind. When Itachi was growing up, he had heard that name mentioned a few times. "Obito Uchiha was my father's uncle," he said, remembering. "My father once said that Obito had been killed by demons for his Sharingan, but for some reason, I didn't believe that. It just didn't make sense to me."
Kakashi sighed and pulled down his headband, "Your father was misinformed. Itachi. What I said is the truth... and part of the reason why I will trust in you. It's no secret that not all humans or demons can be trusted, but there are some who can be. I strongly suspect you are one of those few."
"Thank you, Kakashi." Itachi said.
"Don't thank me," Kakashi said, but not unkindly. "Instead, show your gratitude on the battlefield besides us against Orochimaru and his army."
Itachi nodded resolutely, "I can do that."
"Good." Kakashi once again faced Naruto, "Are you ready to leave now?"
Naruto shook his head, "Not yet."
"Why not? We need to get back as soon as possible, you know."
"I do know that, but shouldn't Itachi and I say good-bye before we leave?" Naruto asked. He noticed the slight narrowing of Kakashi's visible eye before he hastily added, "Yeah, I know they're Akatsuki and they captured me and probably wanted to kill me, but still... they were actually pretty nice. Not all of them, but some were."
Kakashi sighed, "I see you haven't changed one bit, have you, Naruto?"
Naruto grinned, "Nope."
Kakashi sighed again.
Sakura laughed, "Oh, come on, Kakashi-sensei. Just let him. I'm sure it won't take long."
"It's not a matter of how long it'll take. I just don't want a bunch of skilled demon hunters knowing we're here. It's not safe for us, Sakura. We're technically in the heart of enemy territory right now." Kakashi glanced at Naruto and Itachi, "Nor is it safe for you two to be associating with us. You don't want to be dragged into an unnecessary confrontation."
"I know what you mean," Itachi said. "Lately, there's been a lot of unnecessary fights around here and I don't need yet another one added to the list."
Naruto understood what Itachi referred to and agreed with the sentiment. Since everyone in the Akatsuki had found out about him and Itachi's relationship, there had been a lot of unneeded aggression within the organization. Naruto didn't want to see any more, so he proposed a solution, "Well, why don't you and Sakura-chan get going and Itachi and I will catch up to you guys later? That way, we get to say our good-byes and nobody else knows you two are here."
When Kakashi didn't reply, Naruto added, "I know you think this is kinda stupid, but this is something I need to do. It's something I think I should do. And Itachi," Naruto flicked a glance at him, "he really needs to do it, even if it seems that he doesn't care. I know he does. The Akatsuki are his comrades, his friends. It wouldn't be right to leave them without saying something."
"Fine, Naruto." Kakashi finally relented when he saw the resolve in Naruto's eyes. The coyote demon knew there was no point in arguing when the Kyuubi looked like that. When Naruto was determined, nothing could stop him. "You can do it, but Sakura and I will be on the road already by the time you get finished -"
"Thanks, Kakashi-sensei! You're the best!" Naruto cheered, interrupting his first sensei.
"Let me finish, Naruto." Kakashi's voice became serious, "I doubt we will able be able to meet up on the road, so rather than looking for us, just meet us in the Land of Whirlpools. You have exactly seven days to meet us there. If you don't arrive after seven days, I will have no choice but to assume the worst and announce to the villagers that you are not coming back. Not only that, but you have decided to renounce your claim to rule the demons."
Itachi blinked in surprise, Sakura's green eyes widened, and Naruto paled. "But why, Kakashi-sensei?" the two teenage demons questioned in unison.
"You've been gone too long, Naruto." Kakashi answered simply. "Things are very unstable right now. Our people need to see some action or they will lose their will to fight. We need to be swift and decisive. In your heart of hearts, you already know this."
Naruto clenched his fists and for a moment, Kakashi thought he might try to take a swing at him. But he didn't. Instead, Naruto spoke with the authority of a king. "I understand, Kakashi-sensei. And no matter what happens, I will return to the Land of Whirlpools. I'll take my rightful place as king and lead our warriors against Orochimaru and his army. And we will win. Believe it."
"I do believe it," Kakashi said, smiling once more. He firmly believed in the Kyuubi's words and felt that if all the other demons saw Naruto's determination as he just had, then they would win against Orochimaru. Not only that, but seeing Naruto like that reminded the coyote demon of the little fox demon he had first met many years ago. When Naruto was first introduced as Kakashi's student, the young Kyuubi had insisted that he would be the greatest king the demons had ever known. At the time, Kakashi hadn't been sure of what to think about such a bold claim, but as time passed, he realized that perhaps it wasn't such so farfetched after all. It was simply something that would happen one day.
Itachi smiled proudly at Naruto. He was pleased to see Naruto displaying such strength even though he had a tough job ahead of him. Actually, we both do. Itachi realized, remembering he would be joining Naruto against Orochimaru. In truth, the mere thought of seeing the murderous Snake King again after all these years was enough to make the Uchiha experience a vortex of emotions; a savage rage blended with the deepest, most sorrowful pain he had ever known that stemmed the deaths of his family which made him want to race to the Land of Whirlpools and take slow, torturous revenge on the monster that had ruined his young life. But beyond that anger, a protective feeling emerged. Just as Naruto needed to protect the demons under his rule, Itachi needed to protect him, and most importantly, remain by the person whom he loved more than anything else.
Naruto felt Itachi's eyes on him and turned around. He gave the dark-haired man a bright but reassuring smile, as though wordlessly telling the Uchiha that they would be both be okay regardless of what happened. The Kyuubi held the human's gaze for a few moments before addressing his fellow demons, "I guess it's time for all of us to get started on what we need to do," he said, padding up to Kakashi and Sakura. "If you two leave now up, I bet you'll make it home in less than four days."
Kakashi nodded, "I'd say that's about right." The coyote demon extended a hand to Naruto, "Good luck, Naruto. Hurry up and get back. We need a hero to save us, you know."
Naruto clasped the other man's hand and laughed, "I know, and I'm the only one fit for the job."
"That's right." Kakashi let Naruto's hand go. Just as he did, Naruto jumped on him, giving him a quick hug. When Naruto let go, Kakashi blinked in surprise before letting out an embarrassed chuckle. "Really, Naruto... was that necessary?"
"Sure was!" Naruto confirmed happily, earning a big smile from Sakura. He gave a grin in return and opened his arms. She stepped into them and Itachi watched as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Dark Uchiha eyes widened ever so slightly in disbelief as the leopardess kissed Naruto on the lips; a light, but firm contact.
A faint blush colored Naruto's cheeks but before he could ask the reason for the kiss, Sakura explained, giving him a slightly teasing wink. "Don't look so bug-eyed, Naruto. It's a kiss for luck," she stepped away from him, "and congratulations on finding your true mate."
The girl spun on her heels and faced Itachi. She gave him a friendly smile and bowed respectfully to him, "It was nice to meet you, Itachi. Please take good care of Naruto, okay? He's one of a kind."
"I will do so, Sakura." Itachi replied, giving the girl a faint smile in turn. Sakura seemed pleased by this and she stepped back, allowing Kakashi to speak to Itachi.
"Itachi," Kakashi began, squarely meeting the other man's eyes, "as I said earlier, Naruto's father was my sensei. He was a wise man and taught me many things, not only about fighting but about life, too. He taught me about the important things in life that went beyond successfully completing missions." Briefly, his visible eye slid over to Naruto, "After Minato died, I felt that it was my duty to look after Naruto as a way to honor both him and his mate, Kushina. I took it upon myself to train Naruto when he was twelve. I taught him for years until his training with another demon named Jiraiya the Toad Sage began. That lasted until Jiraiya's death two years ago. It was about that time that Naruto began to think about other things besides his responsibility to the Land of Whirlpools. He wanted to leave and begin the search to find answers about his parents' untimely deaths. I didn't allow him to leave until six months ago so I could train him a little longer as my way of making sure he would return safely."
His steady gaze returned to the Uchiha, "And instead of finding what he was looking for, he found a mate instead. Not just a mate, but a human, and a member of the Akatsuki too." Kakashi paused thoughtfully, "And I think that he picked well. Just remember that as Naruto's mate, it's now your duty to protect him at all costs."
A faint smile touched at the corners of Itachi's lips. "I already know that. You don't have anything to worry about when it comes to Naruto-kun. This I swear to you."
"I realize this, but I still felt it necessary to mention - more for my own peace of mind than anything."
"I understand."
Kakashi held out a hand and Itachi shook it, "Take care of yourself, Itachi, and don't forget about what's important to you."
Itachi nodded once and Kakashi released his hand. The coyote demon turned on his heels and addressed the waiting leopardess. "Are you ready, Sakura?"
"Yes, sensei."
"Then let's go," Without another word, the two demons transformed into their animal forms and swiftly bounded away, their powerful paws hardly making a sound on the grass as they sped away into the forest.
Naruto watched them depart, a faraway look in his eyes. He wasn't sure how to feel right now. Sure, he was happy about seeing Sakura and Kakashi, but their visit had been for such a dreadful reason.
"Are you all right, Naruto-kun?" Itachi inquired softly, noticing the peculiar expression in the Kyuubi's blue eyes.
"Yeah, I just need some time to let this all sink in."
"I know what you mean," He walked up to Naruto and gave him a smirk, "After all, it's not every day that I find out my lover is actually the rightful king of the demons."
"And the humans, too." Naruto added with a grin of his own.
"Yes, of course, my King." Itachi responded, giving Naruto a mock bow. Naruto laughed, the worry in his eyes fading. Itachi took one of Naruto's hands, lacing his fingers with the demon's. "Naruto-kun, please don't worry about anything. I know the situation sounds bad, but we'll get through it. I just know we will."
"So do I." Naruto said, his confidence restored. He knew that with Itachi by his side, the two of them could beat the odds stacked against them. After all, they had done it before, and if they could do it once, then they could certainly do it again.
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Twenty miles away from the Akatsuki's base, Sakura and Kakashi stopped by a lake to get a drink of water. Once their thirsts were sated, they sat in the spongy grass giving themselves a much-needed break. No matter who you are, twenty miles at a full sprint isn't easy.
Sakura was sunning her face when she heard Kakashi's rumbling growl of address, "Sakura, may I speak to you for a moment?"
"Sure. What is it, Kakashi-sensei?" Her green eyes reflected her curiosity as she gazed at the silver coyote.
Kakashi tilted his head, thinking about the best way to ask what he needed to. Once he decided, he asked, "How did you feel about seeing Naruto with Itachi as his mate?"
The tip of her long tail whipped thoughtfully for several minutes before she answered, "At first, I was just so shocked that I didn't really know what to think. When the shock faded, I got upset. I just thought that Naruto was supposed to be my mate." She shook her head, "But I was just being selfish by thinking that. I didn't consider how Naruto felt about anything. I was just skeptical of Itachi and him." Her eyes brightened as she continued, "But that changed when I saw the way Naruto looked when you asked him to tell Itachi the truth about who he was. Naruto looked so scared, but when Itachi told him that no matter what he heard, it wouldn't change the way he felt about him, I saw Naruto smile again. He looked so happy, too.
"And I saw the way Itachi responded when you told Naruto he would have to leave. Itachi looked hurt, but he was willing to let Naruto go so he could do what he needed to. That, to me, proved that Itachi loved him... loved him enough to let him go. And...," Sakura's voice broke. She lowered her head and didn't speak.
Kakashi padded up to her and nuzzled her briefly, gently. "It's okay, Sakura. You don't need to continue."
"I have to," she lifted her head and exhaled from her nose. "In the end, I realized that Naruto had made an excellent choice. He found someone he really loved and who really loved him. Nothing else really matters. I'm just so happy for Naruto now."
Kakashi was incredibly proud of the leopardess. She was mature enough to let go of her envy and anything else that may have clouded her judgment about Naruto and Itachi. She saw things as they really were and was accepting of the way things had changed between her and Naruto. There would be no romantic future with her and the Kyuubi, but they would still be in each other's lives. The two of them were friends. Nothing more, nothing less.
Sakura stretched her forelegs out before getting into a standing position, "I think we've rested long enough, Kakashi-sensei. We should go now."
Kakashi nodded in agreement, "Sounds good to me. Let's get back to business."
"Right."
"And Sakura?"
"What?"
"One day, you'll find a wonderful mate of your own. I just know it."
"Thank you, Kakashi-sensei."
The leopardess passed by Kakashi, lightly bumping her shoulder into his in gratitude. "You know, sensei, you're starting to sound a bit too sentimental today. Don't tell me all of this talking about feelings is making you soft?"
The coyote barked out a short laugh, "No, it's not that. I think I'm just getting soft in my old age. This is how the aging process starts, you know. First you get soft, then you start slowing down..."
"Yeah, right. Nothing can slow you down." She picked up her pace and Kakashi followed her easily. Together, the two of them raced to the Land of Whirlpools, each furiously hoping that they would see Naruto again... and soon.
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"And that's is how the situation currently stands with Itachi Uchiha and the Kyuubi." Pein said as he finished the long narrative of Itachi and Naruto's relationship. Of course, even with Konan's help, he didn't know the full story of the hunter and demon so all he could do was reveal what he did know.
Perhaps Madara could tell that fragments of what had occurred were untold. For a long and rather unsettling while, he remained quiet and oddly still. Madara was the type of person who liked to know everything about a situation, and when he felt someone was withholding anything - no matter how small a detail it was - it caused the masked man to fly into a rage. In truth, it wasn't even Pein's fault that he didn't know everything. After all, how could he know every single little detail about what Itachi had done? The only one who knew was Itachi, and it was extremely doubtful to think he'd talk about it, especially after everything that had recently occurred within the Akatsuki.
"So... I trust that's all you know, then?" Madara asked, his gloved fingers flexing and unflexing on the stone tabletop.
"Yes. I've said all I know." Pein replied.
"And so have I." Konan added, still standing by Pein's side. In truth, she did intentionally leave out the first time she saw Itachi and Naruto together, but she felt she had good reason; it was a private moment between the two of them and she had been technically been spying on them. Having never fully approved of the job Zetsu carried out on a daily basis for Madara and Pein, Konan was certainly not going to admit to doing it herself.
"Hmm... I see." Another strange silence from Madara as he watched them both carefully. Not for the first time, Konan wished that she could see Madara's face so she could at least have a faint idea of what he was thinking. Briefly, she glanced at Pein, who remained expressionless, waiting. Obviously waiting to hear something, but what that something was, Konan didn't know.
Finally, Madara stood up, his stone chair scraping against the floor. He began pacing the area back and forth between the wall and the table, hands clasped behind his back as he repeatedly made small, even circles. "Things have definitely changed in my absence, haven't they? Imagine... one of our best and brightest members of the Akatsuki is having a romantic relationship with not only a demon, but the Kyuubi, the star of the demon world. It's astonishing, really."
Pein summoned his courage and asked the question that had been burning in his mind since Madara's arrival, "What are you planning to do about it?"
Madara stopped his pacing, "Do?" He repeated, sounding surprised. His voice rose angrily as he spoke, "I didn't know I was supposed to do anything about it, considering the fine example you've already set. You, who did nothing and allowed it to continue. If anything, I should just- "
Suddenly, Madara stopped, mid-rant. Konan and Pein were taken aback. In the fifteen years they've known Madara, he hadn't ever stopped himself in the middle of an angry tirade. Something was wrong... very wrong.
"Never mind," Madara said calmly. He strode back to his seat and sat down. "I know what to do."
Trying to control the sense of dread she felt, Konan asked politely, "And what will that be, Leader-sama?"
"You'll see soon enough, my dear Konan. You too, Yahiko -" Madara noticed Pein stiffen uncomfortably at the name. Underneath his mask, the man smiled in a satisfied way. "Oops, I slipped there, didn't I? I meant Pein." He amended with a lie. "Anyway, you two are dismissed. Go away and leave me to think."
"But Leader-sama -" Pein began.
"That's enough. You heard me." Madara replied, not showing a hint of aggression. He lifted a hand and waved them away dismissively, as though they were troublesome children bothering their teacher, "Go play outside or something."
Konan and Pein exchanged puzzled looks, but did as they were told. Both of them bowed to the masked man before hurrying out the door.
Alone, Madara leaned back in his chair, sitting in it the way a bored king might sit on his throne. He reflected on what he learned from his subordinates. Truth be told, the news hadn't shocked him as much as one might have thought. He did, after all, get a thorough report on the daily activities on the members of the Akatsuki from Zetsu on a regular basis. He already knew a lot more than he let on to Konan and Pein. Of course, there was a lot more they didn't know about him and he doubted they ever would find out.
But there was one thing Pein, Konan, and all the other Akatsuki lackeys would all know soon enough. They, including the nine-tails who seemed so content to remain with his lover, would all see the truth of who really ran the Akatsuki, and why.
Briefly, Madara recalled Konan's last question to him before being sent away. He thought of a better answer than the one he originally gave her, I'm going to do what I should have done a long, long time ago...
Too bad he hadn't thought of it earlier. To him, it was a perfect reply; it didn't evade the question, but didn't give too specific an answer either, and was just vague enough to be considered subtly threatening. Exactly how an answer like that should be.
Underneath his mask, Madara smirked.