As a young man born half-ghoul, the rarest species, he often ponders his fickle existence. His mother views him as a mistake, though a human boy who becomes his faithful companion thinks otherwise. Circumstances arise that leave him barely holding on, but each time, his friend stays to raise him up. Together, they discover their own meaning of strength and purpose.

What if Mado Kureo lived? Amon saves Mado before he gets killed and their bond grows stronger. AU

One-shot, sequel to "The Cost of Living" and "Checkmate". Kakuzu's decision and actions leave a window of opportunity for Naruto and the rest of Akatsuki to make a play...the last one, they hope. Strike hard and strike fast, or the opponent might be able to find a way to recover and push back.

One-shot, "The Cost of Living" sequel. In a world where Pein's ideal of peace is a tentative thing overseen by Naruto, Kakuzu mulls over his life's work and what his next move should be. When he's given a second opportunity to instruct a young mind, Kakuzu makes a decision that surprises even him, the repercussions of which are bound to have long-lasting effects for the world.

CHAPTER 11 UPDATED! Killua settles Kurapika's gender issue his way and he just had to make sure by asking for one thing he will regret later. A KilluxKura fic (a contribution to the KilluxKura section of this fandom) ;;

My response to pudgypudge's Jiongu challenge. Watch as Naruto is mentored by Kakuzu to become a powerful ninja and bounty hunter, and follow him as he discovers that his new life requires a payment in blood to live successfully. Jiongu!Naruto; Naruto/Fū. Sequels up.