~:✞:~
.: Minato's Diary :.
[July 10th, xx62]
Upon another visit to the forest a few days ago, I was attacked by a large black dragon with red eyes. I was narrowly able to get away. I had never seen a dragon so aggressive before. Usually they would run or fly away, but this one seemed to be especially grumpy. It also didn't look like one of the native dragons I was used to seeing so I began to fear that it was a rogue. I entered the forest again today and was able to track it down. We engaged in a fearsome fight, yet before either of us could end it, a loud wail came from the trees and a young dragon ran to the black one crying. I finally understood everything then. I eventually came to learn that the name of this dragon was "Itachi".
[August 1st, xx62]
I sometimes see Itachi and the youngling traversing the forest. They seemed as if they were lost. Perhaps they were not used to the illusions of the forest and navigating it yet. This was more than enough proof that they were not native. I didn't want any harm to befall them so I was able to meet with Homura and ask that he allow them access to the paradise. He was extremely reluctant, especially as Itachi was a dragon with the element of darkness. But I was able to convince him once he learned of the youngling with him. After that, I didn't see Itachi for some time. However, I learned that the young dragon with him was his brother, "Sasuke". How cute!
[September 11th, xx62]
I see Itachi patrolling the forest from time to time now. He attacks any hunters that come near. I haven't heard him regarded as a man-eater, so that's good. But he is still rather aggressive. I don't ever see Sasuke with him anymore. He must keep him hidden in the paradise. Against Madara's better judgement, I decided I would try and get closer to Itachi; he didn't seem to be very dangerous, just defensive. It looks like he was playing the role of sentry and attacked anyone that came too near to the center of the forest. I approached him and threw my sword on the ground. I held out my hand, making it clear that I had no intention of hurting him. He was skeptical at first, but did not attack. Instead, he walked off completely disinterested. I didn't follow him. But I didn't give up either.
[November 2nd, xx62]
It happened today! After months of pestering and following him around, I finally got to see Itachi's human form for the first time! He was a peculiar guy. Quiet and observant. He was not nude; he wore a long black cloak that covered his body. I spoke to him, although he spoke very few words back. But I was able to learn that he came from another country with his little brother. They fled here to avoid being hunted when they learned of the treaty between the dragons of Konoha and the kingdom and the ban that was put in place to protect dragons from being killed. I told him that he was always welcome and I ensured no harm would befall him.
[December 5th, xx62]
It is now winter and the temperature has dropped substantially. I haven't seen Itachi nor many of the other dragons in the forest in a while, but I am sure they are fine. I intend to go and speak with Homura again when I can. I have also learned that another kingdom has recently been attacked by rogue dragons. Things are getting complicated now. I am receiving a lot of pressure to remove the pact and ban we share with dragons of this country, but I will forever stand firm.
[January 16th, xx63]
Kushina is pregnant! This is the happiest moment of my life right now! Whether I shall have a girl or a boy, I will be equally happy! May the gods shine down on us and give us a fruitful year!
[April 27th, xx68]
Naruto is 5 years old today! Jiraiya spoils him but Madara is so hard on him. I understand that he wants to start training him early, but he is still just a child. However, with everything that has transpired, I can understand why Madara is so persistent. We are facing extreme pressure from neighboring countries. Royal families continue to come under attack, and kingdoms continue to fall to ruin. I can't just stand by anymore. Something has to be done. I have been so distracted that I have neglected my duties of finding a way to restore Jofuku Forest. The forest has started to wane even more. The dragons are getting desperate. If I don't figure something out soon, both the dragons and my kingdom will fall to ruin next.
[February 13th, xx69]
After looking through the archives, reading my mother's notes, and talking to Homura, I was able to learn something. I already knew Konoha used to be known as a hidden kingdom due to the forest. However, the forest's power began to wane when we were invaded by a rival nation. They wanted to slaughter the dragons in the forest, but my mother went to fend them off. She was poisoned and died. Her body was recovered and I received the amulet that she possessed. I will forever miss you mother. But I understand why you fought so hard. You were trying to protect something, weren't you? The forest didn't start dying until after that fateful day. I have finally uncovered the knowledge that there is another "hidden" kingdom that has a special pact with dragons. But it seems that they are located in the middle of the desert. My mother stated in her journal that only a dragon could find it. I will need to investigate further. If I could find this fabled kingdom, then maybe I could find a way to save the forest.
[October 10th, xx72]
Naruto is nine years old now. I have not been able to spend much time with him as my concerns with the dragons, the forest, and the kingdom have taken issue more than anything. I have scoured the desert with Homura and other dragons with little to no luck. The monsters there are ruthless and there were times where we barely escaped. But I know the hidden kingdom is there somewhere! Somewhere under all that sand, beyond those dunes, under those rocks, there is hope. And there is help.
[March 2nd, xx73]
I finally had success today! It isn't much, but it is something! I searched the desert yet again, this time with Homura as my aid. He grumbled the entire time and wouldn't stop complaining about how hot it was. I know his age is catching up to him, but I appreciate that he still helps me. After a while, we came across a strange stone. It looked like part of an old, crumbled altar. An hourglass-like shape was carved into it. There were some runes that were carved on the outer edges. When I took a closer look, my amulet started to glow. It was as if it were reacting to something. However, before I could investigate further, several monsters appeared out of the sand and attacked us. Homura took great damage. We had to escape quickly. His wounds were severe. I knew that I could not rely on Homura again for I would risk his safety. But we finally found a clue. If only those monsters hadn't appeared. I am certain that we were close!
[June 2nd, xx73]
Homura's wounds have healed. And I have tried asking other dragons to accompany me to the desert, but they fear the monsters after seeing the state Homura returned in. I was determined to go, however. Even if it meant traveling by horseback. I've even had to lie to Madara so that he wouldn't worry by stating that I was just doing border patrols of the country. I knew the dragons were scared, and maybe they thought that I was crazy. But to my surprise, Itachi offered to help. He asked if there was really a way to restore the forest. I told him that I'm sure if we find the hidden kingdom in the desert, they would help us even if there wasn't a way. I had a new ally now.
[July 19th, xx73]
Itachi and I searched the desert. We stayed out there many days and nights before the elements forced us to return to the kingdom. We found nothing. And each time I attempted to approach the altar to investigate, a terrible roar would sound from somewhere and monsters appeared. They are protecting something. Guarding something. I know we are close…
[September 15th, xx73]
I have not been able to return to the desert. I have too many responsibilities at the moment and no further leads. To make matters worse, the dragons in the forest have suddenly gotten more aggressive. Today I had to make the unfortunate decision to slay one when it stepped on kingdom grounds and began to attack. I am sorry. You were probably tired. I know things are grim. But please, just wait a little longer everyone…
[November 23rd, xx73]
Something's wrong. The dragons have become restless. I was able to track down Itachi and speak to him to gather intel. But something wasn't right. He was complaining of headaches. He said something attacked him in the middle of the night and he hadn't felt well ever since. This happened outside of the paradise. Not just that, but apparently he was hearing voices. Strange. I told Homura to keep an eye on the dragons and not to allow them to leave the paradise until further notice.
[December 1st, xx73]
Itachi breached the borders and attacked the kingdom. I don't know why he did it. But I was able to run him off before anything could happen. The people are afraid. The dragons are starting to revolt. But why? Why now? And why Itachi? I have to do something.
[January 8th, xx74]
The court has placed a bounty on Itachi's head. He has needlessly killed many men in the forest, even those who were not hunters. Every time I try to go and find him, he runs me off in a feral rage. I will have to find a different dragon to take me back to the desert. But I cannot leave the kingdom unguarded so long as there are rogue dragons on the loose. After so long, we find ourselves in unrest.
[February 6th, xx74]
Itachi has to be stopped. More people continue to die and hide in fear. I have had to help put out numerous fires. I'm sorry, old friend. But next time, you leave me no choice. As I become increasingly busy with my duties, I will be passing the amulet onto Naruto. If I cannot continue my mission, then I will pass it on to Naruto and tell him the details of the hidden kingdom in the desert and what he must do about Jofuku Forest. For now, I must focus on the survival of my people.
[The rest of the pages are blank…]
There was silence between everyone in the bedroom. The soft crackling of wood in the fireplace was the only thing that offered ambiance. Another minute or two went by, before Naruto flicked back and forth through the pages, rereading a few things. "So… the dragon that attacked that night and killed my father…"
"..." Sasuke was silent.
"And dad even knew Homura." Naruto sighed. "He was looking for a way that entire time, a way to save the dragons and the forest." He closed the book. His blue eyes stared out of focus at the floor. Even though he was at a loss for proper words, there was still one thing he could say. "I'm sorry, Sasuke."
Sasuke dug his nails into his thighs slightly. "Itachi never told me a lot of what he did outside of the paradise. He did mention your dad a lot. And how he would help him from time to time. But never anything outside of that. But the day he died… Homura never told me it was the king himself who killed him. And it was probably because he knew how I would feel or what I would say if I knew."
"You would hate humans. And you would never have agreed to help me."
"...yeah." Sasuke brought a hand to his mouth and looked downward. "Yeah… I…"
"Sasuke?" When Naruto reached over to comfort him, Sasuke jerked his body away.
"Don't!" He growled lowly. "Don't touch me. I can't… I can't deal with this right now." Sasuke got up and walked over to the balcony window. He opened it and without saying another word, flew off into the evening.
Naruto did not try to stop him nor call out for him. He knew that Sasuke needed some time. He just learned that he had been protecting the son of his brother's murderer. How can anyone deal with that properly? Exactly. It was something that Naruto would not be able to fault Sasuke for. They may have gotten answers to some of their problems, but in doing so, new ones were just created.
Naruto removed the amulet from the diary and gripped it tightly. He closed his eyes. 'Dad, I'm sorry.' His hand began to tremble. He wanted to apologize to Sasuke in his mind too, but something prevented him from having the will to do so right now.
~:::~
Sasuke rushed through the forest, swatting branches and spider webs out of his way. The sun was setting but he didn't care. He fought back tears, he splashed through mud, he growled at the very air. And finally, he transformed into a dragon and pushed his way through the illusion into the paradise. "HOMURAAAAA!" The dragon's roar bellowed, and within a moment he was on top of the elder.
"Sasuke!" The old dragon snarled. "What do you think you're doing?!"
"YOU KNEW!" He snapped. "The entire time, you fucking knew! And… WHY?!" He pressed his foreclaw into the other dragon's neck, putting pressure on his throat.
"Ack!" Homura choked. He was silent for a moment before he began to speak. "..so you found out. I knew this day would come, and I predicted that this would be your reaction."
"Don't fuck with me, old man!"
"S-Sasuke…?" A meek female voice called out; it was Karin. "What's going on? Is everything ok?" She took a step forward but Sasuke growled at her.
"Don't come any closer!" He bellowed. "Or I'll slice you apart."
"!" Karin knew that this was unlike the dragon at all to be acting this way, let alone attacking Homura. But she did not falter. She stood there, quiet and observant as she listened to the two continue to bicker.
"Stop it, Sasuke! That is enough." Homura wheezed. "So you know the truth. But attacking me and threatening others is not what you need to do. Settle down." He frowned, wheezing through his breath.
"...why me? Of everyone here, why did you choose me?"
"It wasn't me who chose you!" Homura snapped, finally summoning the strength to push Sasuke off of him. He stood to his legs with his back turned to the koi pond and narrowed his slender eyes at the black dragon. His whiskers flicked in agitation. "...it was your brother."
"What?!"
"...Itachi was the one who told me to look after you should anything happen." He stated, coughing once more. "Yes it is true, Minato slew him. But before that, when Itachi started hearing voices in his head, he told me that should anything happen, to make sure you continue helping the king when he perishes. However, that turned out to be impossible when both of their lives were lost that fateful day." A splash sounded from the pond as a koi flopped about. "Which meant that I had to make a painful decision and lie to you. And then raise you to help the prince instead…" He sighed.
Sasuke stood there; his talons dug into the ground beneath him. Emotions ran wild within his head. There was so much. So much he didn't understand. So much he didn't want to understand. His brother was killed by Naruto's father. And he had been helping him this entire time. None of it made sense. None of it was supposed to make sense. None of it should have happened in the first place. He snarled and shot a ball of fire into the air. "DAMN IT!" He charged into a boulder, cracking it down the middle. He slashed trees in half with his claws and the sickle on his tail. "DAMN IT ALL!" His tantrum continued.
"Sasuke!" Karin ran over to the male in her dragon form. She didn't care if he hurt her or pushed her away; she just wanted him to stop. She ran up to him just as he was about to headbutt another boulder; he skidded to a stop. He glared at her, fangs dripping with saliva and breaths of hot air came from his maw. She took a step forward and nuzzled her snout into his neck. "Please…" She cooed. "Stop. It's ok. Everything is going to be ok. I'm here for you."
Sasuke turned his head and bit into the side of her jaw. "Grr!"
Karin winced but did not move. Blood dripped onto the ground between their feet. "It's ok if you want to hurt me." She said, closing her eyes in sorrow as tears began to show. "It's ok."
That's when Sasuke finally broke. The familiar mystical smoke surrounded his form, and he broke into sobs as he fell to his knees, face pressed against Karin's warm body. "Itachi…" He sniffled. "Come back. Please… I can't… I can't do this..."
The cries of the dragon reverberated through the ears of both Karin and Homura. They both showed a solemn look upon their faces. Homura turned to leave the two be; he had said all that needed to be said for now. Karin turned her head and nuzzled into Sasuke's crying face. She curled her tail around him to hide and protect him with her being. As the night began to fade in, she continued to repeat those painful words. "It's ok."
~:::~
The hallways were quiet; there was very little commotion in the castle this night. Naruto had skipped his next meal, a rarity for the prince. He was scolded by Kabuto that he needed to eat, but the prince ignored his request and locked himself in his bedroom chambers after the doctor was done with his checkup. A few times Kiba had tried to speak with him, but the prince did not answer; he did not have the desire to talk to anyone right now.
"Grandson… I am here if you need me." Jiraiya put his hand on the door and stayed there for a while, but eventually he had given up and left.
Naruto blew out all the candles and dimmed the fireplace; he threw the blanket to his bed over his head. He just wanted to not exist for a while. So much was going through his head. And he didn't know where to begin. He knew that his father was always a busy man, but never knew the exact details as to why. Those long days and nights he would never see his father all made sense now. He was out looking for a way to fix things. Only to meet his eventual downfall and early death. And, well, Naruto didn't even know how to react to the Itachi situation. And he wished he didn't have to think about it at all. But no matter what, he would never escape the cold, hard truth: Itachi killed Minato. Itachi was Sasuke's brother. Sasuke had been protecting him this entire time. And neither of them knew the truth.
Naruto was tired. All this fighting, questing, searching… all the death of everyone that kept piling up. He didn't know how to face it. So he chose not to face it at all. He slept until noon the next day. He got up to bathe. He returned to the bed. It started to rain, and then eventually it became a thunderstorm. He ignored it. He ignored everything. The knocking at his door, his duties, the worried calls of his name. They all didn't exist right now. He didn't exist right now. Two days went by; Naruto did not leave his room. The servants left food to eat by his door. He would finish his breakfast and lunch, but skip dinner as he had no desire to talk to anyone. Another long night began to settle in; the rain continued to pour.
"Naruto." A familiar stern, cold voice echoed from the other side of the bedroom door. But the prince did not answer. "...I'm coming in." Madara unlocked the door and stepped inside. The room was dark and there was a damp smell in the air. If one did not know any better, they would have assumed the room to be empty had it not been for the faint figure bundled up beneath the covers of the canopy bed. Looking around, Madara could see that Sasuke was absent from the room as well, and he had not seen the dragon prowling the castle either. The mage placed a hand atop Naruto's shoulder.
"Go away."
"Is that what you want, prince?"
"..." Silence.
Madara sat on the edge of the bed and exhaled softly. "I see Sasuke is not here. Did you send Kurama away as well?" He asked.
"No. He's sleeping under the bed." Naruto shifted beneath the covers. "Doesn't matter anyway. He can hear what I'm thinking."
"I see." There was more silence between the two. "...Naruto, you cannot continue to shut yourself away. It is not good for you nor the rest of the people in the castle. Your grandfather is worried about you, yet you will not talk to him or anyone else. What has become of you to make you this way?"
"...Madara, did you know?" The prince muttered. "About Sasuke's brother…"
"Yes, Naruto. I did know." The mage replied without hesitation, but he was not without surprise at the sudden question. "Is that what this is all about? So, you must have read the diary and uncovered the truth." He sighed. "It isn't hard to see the similarities the two shared. And at the time before you and he started dwelling here, I had assumed he would do the same thing as his brother: start attacking the kingdom. Or, take revenge for the loss of his brother's life. That is why I was so adamant against him staying here. I had thought that he was planning to do you harm."
"Sasuke wouldn't-!" Naruto paused. Sasuke wouldn't? What wouldn't he do? What would he do? What would he do now after learning everything? Would he stay gone? Would he seek revenge? Would he hate Naruto? The prince grit his teeth and curled into himself more. "You should have stopped my father…"
"Excuse me?"
"My father! You should have stopped him that night. You shouldn't have let him go out and die… then none of this would be happening right now."
"Don't take that tone with me, boy!" He snapped. "Naruto, you were there that night! You witnessed everything for yourself! It was your father's choice to go out and fight. It was your father's choice to go out there and face that monster! And what about yourself? You came running out as well, ready to face the same fate!"
"Yeah, but that was because-"
"Or are you saying… that you wished it was me that died instead?"
"NO!" Naruto sat up in the bed, throwing the covers off of him and glaring at his mentor with tear-stained eyes. "That's not what I meant! I didn't want anyone to die!" He cried. "I didn't want that dragon, dad, mom, Sakura, or anyone to die!" He screamed, voice laced with anger and disdain.
Madara sighed. "Then, what are you doing right now, prince? Do you want to die instead?"
"..." Naruto brought his knees to his chest and rested his forehead atop them. He didn't feel like being here, suffering, dealing with any of this. He just wanted everything to go away. He wanted to go away. "I don't know." He answered.
"Naruto. Listen to me." Madara stood up and paced to the window, eying the storm outside. He crossed his arms behind his back as lightning flashed in front of him. "We all have times where we feel like we don't want to exist here on this earth. But there is nothing we can do about it other than continue marching forward. And I know that is something hard to do. I know that it is something hard to accept. And I know how excruciatingly painful it is." He looked over at Naruto. "But you don't have to do it alone. You don't have to be alone. There is always someone here, there, out there, wherever - that will aid you."
"But… I don't know where to go from here. I'm lost, Madara. I'm so lost. And confused. I practically had everything handed to me. I got the clues to the answers I was searching for. But now, knowing what I know now, and with Sasuke gone..."
"You don't know how to face him. I understand your feelings very well. I have lost many things, prince. My homeland, my family, my trust, but the thing that I feared losing the most… was you." Madara glanced at the floor. "I have thought many times about what would happen if something were to befall you and the kingdom. Would I have to relive my past tragedies all over again, with nothing ever getting resolved?!" He huffed. "That day after the court made their decision, and I saw you holding her in your arms, I imagined you in her place. And when you did not speak to me sometime after, I thought it was done. It took me great courage to face you again that night. And it will take you great courage to face him again." He placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "If that's what you decide to do. And if not, then you will have to think of an alternate strategy. Do what you think is right, not what you think is easiest."
Saying nothing else, Madara left the boy alone to brood. He felt as if he said everything he could say. Now, once again, it was Naruto's choice whether or not this kingdom moves forward. Only this time, the mage would not push him towards that decision.
~:::~
It took another day before Naruto finally summoned the strength to leave his room again. The words Madara spoke weighed heavily on his mind. He understood what he had to do. But he still felt hollow inside. He ate breakfast with his grandfather. Jiraiya was all too happy to have his company, but couldn't help feeling troubled at Naruto's downtrodden state. When he questioned what was on the blonde's mind, he finally began to tell the old man the contents of what he learned from Minato's diary.
"I see, I see…" Jiraiya nodded, pondering the details. "Yes, your father was notoriously bad about keeping secrets from us, and always had a do-it-himself attitude. I can see why. He did mention looking for a way of restoring the forest. When your grandmother died, it was hard on him like it was for you with the loss of Kushina." He said sadly. "But, that doesn't mean things have to change now. What happened wasn't your fault, Naruto. I am sure Sasuke understands that. Give it some time. He will return." He nodded, and offered another pancake to the prince.
"Thank you, grandfather." Naruto took the pancake and continued eating. It may not be the exact words he needed to hear, but it did help to put his mind at ease. After finishing the breakfast, Naruto forced himself to do some training to try and clear his mind. He did sword practice, aiming and slicing at wooden dummies. It seemed to help a little, but anyone could tell by how deep the gashes were that the prince was irritated. He eventually started to think about Sasuke again. 'Stupid dragon. It's not my fault!' He swung his blade at a target. 'So get back here and...' He attacked another wooden dummy. 'Quit pouting! Because that isn't fair!' Again he brought his sword down on another target. And another, and another until they were sliced to shreds. 'You aren't the only one affected! You aren't the only one who lost someone! Stupid dragon! Stupid Madara! STUPID FATHER!' He gasped and threw his sword to the ground.
"Quite the tantrum, prince." Kurama muttered in his head.
"Shut up! And quit reading my thoughts!"
"Alright. If that is what you wish. But you're starting to show more favoritism to that dragon than you know. Just go get him."
"..."
Kurama left him alone. "Tch. Whatever." Naruto picked his sword back up off the ground. He dusted himself off, feeling a bit refreshed now that he was able to take most of his frustrations out on something. When he walked by the infirmary and peered inside, he smiled upon seeing one of the maids kissing her husband. She was exclaiming how happy she was that his illness did not get worse. Just then, an image of Sasuke flickered through Naruto's mind of the moment he kissed him when he awoke from the coma. He brought his fingers to his lips and gently touched them. Why had the dragon done that? And... what was he trying to say that day? Naruto blushed as he discarded the thought. He was tired and rested for the remainder of the evening.
The next day, Naruto spent time with Kiba. He watched him train with Kakashi that morning; he gave him strict instructions on hunting and working together with his canine companion, Akamaru. When they were finished, Kiba took Naruto out on the town. He locked arms with the prince and smiled, happy that they were able to be together after so long. But even he could not ignore the blonde's sullen state. "...talk to me, man."
"Sorry, Kiba. Just a lot on my mind."
Kiba frowned slightly. "Are you talking about Sasuke? Forget about him! You still have me!" He chimed. "Besides… whether I like it or not, I bet he's gonna come runnin' back. And when he does, Akamaru and I will show him what for!"
"Yeah…" A small smile creased Naruto's lips. That did seem to cheer him up. It had been ages since he was properly able to spend time with Kiba after all; he was always away hunting or on business outside of the kingdom. He pointed to a stand selling fresh mutton. "Let's get some of that~"
"Yeah! Now you're talking!" Kiba dragged Naruto over to the vendor and they gorged themselves on the savory, delicious meat. When they were finished, they started walking around town some more.
"Man, I'm stuffed~" Naruto said, rubbing his stomach. "Hey, can we stop for a while?" His feet were starting to get tired and he wanted to rest.
"Sure, man!" Kiba led Naruto to a bench where they could sit down. "So… are you gonna tell me what's got you so down like this?"
Naruto had actually been contemplating the entire time whether or not he should tell Kiba about what he read in his father's diary. He and Sasuke couldn't just keep everything a secret forever. 'Sasuke…' The dragon crossed the prince's mind again. He still had not come back to the castle. And Naruto was beginning to regret his decision of letting him stay and getting closer to him. He started to feel like he completely took advantage of the male even if it were not his fault. All this time of building trust, only for it to be shattered in a day.
"Naruto?" Kiba nudged him.
"Oh! Um…" Naruto snapped out of his thoughts and looked at the knight. "Kiba, I read my father's diary. And in it, he was looking for a way to restore Jofuku Forest. See, the forest is technically dying. I know that sounds like a good thing because of the dragons, but if the forest dies, and the dragons are gone, we will have nothing left to protect our kingdom."
"Oh? Is that right…" Kiba replied, trailing off. He didn't have a proper response, but he finally understood why the prince seemed so downtrodden. He knew how much Minato liked dragons, and how much of an influence he was on Naruto. So reading his diary probably opened up a lot of memories, both good and bad. But to hear that he actually had plans of saving the dragons and the forest was quite the surprise. "Your old man liked dragons that much, huh?"
"Yeah…" Naruto looked down at his hands, twiddling his thumbs. How long had it been since he spoke positively about his dad and dragons in one sentence? He continued talking. "But… I also found out that he killed Itachi - Sasuke's brother."
"Wait! What?!" Kiba looked at Naruto with wide eyes. "You mean... The big black one? The one that-" Kiba stopped himself. "...well, you know. That one?" When Naruto nodded, Kiba grit his teeth. "Damn." He looked at the blonde apologetically. "I'm sorry, man. So um… then Sasuke knows, huh?"
"Y-yeah." Naruto replied, this time his voice was weak and shaky. "Kiba… what do I do?" He looked at his best friend desperately. "My dad… he was trying so hard to save everyone that he ended up still having to kill in the process. And he died for it. And then Sasuke came to help me. He told me his brother was slain but I never knew it was my dad! This whole time, Kiba! This whole time he's been protecting me and never knew! It's so fucked!" He yelled, stomping his foot on the ground. "It's all so fucked…"
Kiba pulled the prince into his arms, hiding the male's face in his fur-trimmed tunic so that the commoners wouldn't see. "It's ok, Naruto. Listen-"
"IT'S NOT OK!" He retorted. "None of it is… Dad died. Mom died. Sakura died. I almost died! And now so many other innocent people around the country are dying! I can't stand it, Kiba. It's too damn cruel. I want it all to stop!" Naruto's face began to turn red with fury.
"...then let's stop it."
"Nn?" Naruto looked up at Kiba curiously. "What?"
"I said, then let's stop it. Together. Let's find a way to fix the forest, save the dragons, and save the kingdom. You said your old man was working on it, right? Then let's pick up where he left off. We aren't going to get anywhere if you stay like this, right? Then I'll help you."
"Kiba…"
"And…" Kiba sucked in a huge breath before exhaling. "I'll… I'll even work together with Sasuke. But first we gotta get him back, right? So let's start with that." The knight said every single word of that sentence with such force that it could probably penetrate a brick wall. It made Naruto chuckle.
"...alright." He exhaled and patted his cheeks, trying to put on a more serious expression. "But I'm not sure how. Or what I should say." Naruto replied. "Sasuke just… left. Without saying anything."
"Too fucking bad. He swore to protect the royal family the moment he stepped foot on the grounds and became your bodyguard; even if I could have done a better job, but that's not the point. If he's not willing to help you now despite all of this, then he was never willing to in the first place." Kiba folded his arms and nodded his head.
Naruto thought about his friend's words for a moment. In a way, he was right. And in another way, Sasuke still had every right to be upset. But they needed to move past that now. Besides, if he didn't, Kurama would just pester him again. "You're right. If that damn dragon doesn't get his ass back here, then I'll drag him back!" Naruto stood up. "Come on, Kiba. We're going into the forest."
"Wait, what? Right now?" He asked dumbfounded.
"Yeah. Right now. It's still daylight so the illusions won't be as strong. Sasuke said that only a dragon could find the hidden paradise, but father seemed to imply that he knew how to get there himself; according to his diary anyway." The prince started to ponder some more. 'So if what Shikamaru said is true...'
"Wait but, are you sure it's ok if I come with you? I know last time you said it might be a bad idea…"
Naruto looked at Kiba and nodded. "Yeah. I'm sorry for blowing you off last time, Kiba. But now, I want you to help me. Because after I get Sasuke back, we're going to have to prepare to go into the desert."
"What? Wait, slow down, Naruto! Where is all this coming from?"
"I'll tell you on the way through the forest. I'll… I'll tell you about my dad's diary." He curled his fingers into a fist. "But only if you promise to keep everything a secret."
"Yeah, man!" Kiba stood up as well. "I won't say anything."
"Alright. Then, let's go." Without missing a beat, Naruto started heading for the kingdom entrance. Kiba and Akamaru followed behind him. After they passed through the gate and went off the beaten path into the forest, Naruto took out his father's diary and began to turn through the pages. "So my father was looking for a hidden kingdom in the desert…"
Naruto began to explain to Kiba what Minato had been doing during his time as ruler; how he had been investigating the forest, protecting the dragons, knew about Itachi, and tried numerous times to discover the hidden kingdom in the desert. But the former king had run out of time to keep looking, and eventually had to refocus his attention back onto Konohagakure. Minato had plans of telling Naruto everything before his death, hence why he left him the amulet. But that never ended up happening. However, "I'm hoping that it still isn't too late. My dad said he found a clue that hinted to the existence of the hidden kingdom in the desert."
"What? No way!" Kiba exclaimed; Akamaru whined in unison. "Right? It sounds ridiculous huh, pal?" He ruffled the spiky fur on his companion's head.
"Yeah but it's true! Look… it says here that he found a strange altar with an hourglass etched into it. It looked like a symbol, or a crest even. I bet that had to be the mark of that kingdom!"
"Hmm…" Kiba looked up in thought, pursing his lips. "Yeah but… how do you know if that kingdom still even exists? What if they're all buried in the sand by now?"
"That's why we need Sasuke." Naruto answered. "My grandmother seemed to believe that only dragons could find hidden kingdoms. And father always took a dragon with him to traverse the desert. If that's true then, we won't be able to find it alone. We'll need Sasuke's help."
"I get it, I think." The knight responded. 'So Minato was doing all of that… just for dragons? Well no. He was doing it for Konoha, too.' Kiba looked ahead at Naruto, who seemed to be deep in thought as he stared at the pages of Minato's diary. 'And now Naruto is doing the same thing. Even though he used to hate dragons so much. Did something change? What the hell happened? Ugh, it's so frustrating. If only I were here instead of doing border patrol during the winter.'
Light sprinkles of water began to fall from the sky. "Crap, it's rainin'." Kiba said, holding out his hand. "If the sky gets dark with storm clouds, that might affect the forest, too. Should we keep going? Actually, where are we going? …Naruto?" He looked at the prince who just kept moving forward. "Hey! NARUTO!"
"Huh? Sorry, Kiba! I was trying to focus."
"Focus on what?"
"So only dragons can find the hidden paradise in the forest. But Shikamaru said that if I focus hard enough and remember little details, I might be able to find it. But it's no use…" He sighed. "I don't know where we are or where we're going. I thought that maybe something would happen but…" Naruto stopped and kicked a rock in frustration.
"Well look, we should head back anyway. If the rain gets worse, we'll be soaked unless we can find shelter."
"Wait, that's it!" Naruto suddenly exclaimed. "Sasuke's cave! If we find it, he might be there instead of the paradise. And if not, we can still take shelter until the rain lets up."
"I dunno…" Kiba covered his face when Akamaru whined and shook out his fur, getting droplets of water all over the male. "Agh! Geez, really boy?" The knight groaned at the wolf before answering Naruto. "Ok fine! Let's go to the cave then. Didn't Sasuke use to roam the forest a whole lot anyway? So you are right. There's a chance he might be there." He said before a thought came to mind. 'But then what? If he's in a bad mood, I'll have to protect Naruto. Things could go sour with how current matters are between them.' With that, the knight decided to stick close to Naruto.
'Ok. Let's see.' Naruto closed his eyes. 'On the night Sasuke kidnapped me, we went through…' Naruto tried to remember as many details as he could. They met between the kingdom's border wall and the forest. There were icicles. An owl in the tree. But everything was so dark that he couldn't visualize a clear path. The blonde started to get frustrated. 'Come on! Please! I just want to see Sasuke again… please take me to him!'
Suddenly, Akamaru let out a low, threatening growl. "Grr!"
"Naruto, get back!" Kiba jumped in front of the prince and readied his gauntlets. Even though Kiba was a knight that wielded a sword, he always preferred using his fists and hand-to-hand combat. His eyes narrowed as he looked forward. "We're not alone." He whispered.
"What?" Naruto whispered back. "What is it? A monster?" The prince instinctively put a hand on the hilt of his sword.
"No… it's a dragon. But it ain't Sasuke." Kiba said, glancing around cautiously. "Or else Akamaru wouldn't be acting this way."
"Huh? What do you mean-"
"LEAVE!" A loud snarl sounded from the trees a distance away from them. Heavy footsteps began to make their way towards Kiba and Naruto. The rain continued to fall harder, and in a flash of lightning, a red dragon appeared in front of them. Her maw opened, revealing razor-sharp teeth. Her yellows eyes glared at them with a dangerous ferocity as her red scales shimmered in the dim light.
"K-Karin!" Naruto called out nervously.
"You know her?" Kiba asked, turning an eye to him but keeping his position.
"Y-yeah. She's one of the dragons from the paradise." He answered. 'But why is she here? Wait, does that mean Sasuke is-'
"I won't let you come any closer. I will NOT allow you to harm Sasuke any more than you already have! Take another step, just one more, and I will char you where you stand!" She growled.
"Wait, Karin!" Naruto tried to plead. "Please, I need to see Sasuke! It's a misunderstanding! I'll apologize and everything but… I have to talk to him!"
"I said NO!" She reared up and stomped on the ground, splashing muddy water around. "Return to your filthy human kingdom and leave us be! I knew we never should have trusted you! That old man, Homura, was a fool! Making Sasuke work with the enemy, thinking that it could do us any good. It was a mistake! I'LL protect Sasuke and the rest of the dragons now!" She hissed. "So begone!"
"Naruto, she's not listening. And quite frankly, I didn't agree to come with you to become dragon breakfast! Or for you to become that, too!"
"Then go back, Kiba!" Naruto answered, locking eyes with Karin. "But I'm not leaving without Sasuke. I can't just go back. Not after everything. Not after everything we've done for each other. Not just to throw it all away." He sighed and stood up straight, taking his hand away from his sword. "Karin, I don't want to hurt you. And I'm not going to hurt Sasuke, either. So please, let me-"
Karin breathed fire at Naruto, which Kiba blew away with his own wind magic. "Hey! If you attack, you'll be dealing with us, too!" He warned; Akamaru followed the sentence with a threatening bark.
"It's ok, Kiba. It's raining. Her firepower isn't going to be as strong."
"Don't you dare think that just because my fire isn't as strong, that my claws and teeth aren't!" She huffed. "That's it! I already warned you! Now prepare to die!" Karin charged at the prince.
'Shit, here she comes!' Kiba got ready.
"...KARIN!" A voice called out to the dragoness.
Immediately, Karin skidded to a complete halt. Then she turned her head to the direction of the calling of her name and ran off. Naruto was quick to chase after her.
"Naruto, wait! What are you-"
"That was Sasuke's voice just now!" He hollered. "Come on!"
"Ugh! Just when we were going to get some action, huh, boy?" Kiba pouted as he looked at Akamaru and then proceeded to follow the blonde.
They traversed through the forest, splashing through puddles as they ran. Naruto swatted plants and tree limbs out of his way. No matter how far ahead Karin got, he didn't pause for a moment. He began panting, desperately trying to keep up with her pace as he could. And then, a large opening in the base of a rocky cliff appeared in his vision. His eyes widened, his heart skipped a beat. 'Don't tell me it's…' But then out of the dark, hollow opening, a fireball shot out at him. "Gah!" Naruto was too slow to avoid it. He took the hit head-on and fell to the ground; steam came from his body as the cold droplets of rain continued to fall.
"Hmph." Karin smirked, appearing from the entrance of the cave. When Kiba and Akamaru finally caught up, she growled. "I'll do the same thing to you, too! Now take him and go!"
"Fuck!" Kiba glared at the dragoness. She meant business. He knelt down and helped Naruto up.
"Ngh…" Naruto winced. He could feel burns beneath his clothing and armor. Even though he was in a considerable amount of pain, he still refused to give up. "Sasuke!" He called out. "Get out here, damn it!" He demanded, staggering to his feet. "Come on! Face me!"
Kiba remained quiet, but still kept a defensive stance. He eyed Karin and the cave behind her. 'The hell is he doing? He's going to get himself roasted!'
"Sasuke!" The prince yelled once more. "I'm not leaving, Sasuke. Not until you come out here and talk to me! If you gotta problem with what my old man did, then fine! But don't just run away and hide just because of that!" He challenged. "Besides… I know it was you who attacked me just now. So come on out. I know you're there." He smirked.
"...you really should take a hint." A low, husky voice rumbled. Footsteps began to approach the entrance to the cave, and yellow eyes glared at the men. "Leave."
"No."
"Shall I make you leave?"
"Try it." The blonde responded; there was a hint of a smile on Naruto's face. "I'll take whatever you can dish out at me. I've seen worse and I've been through worse. So give it all you've got. But just know that at the end of it all, I'm still going to be kicking!"
"..." There was silence between the two.
"Sasuke! Let me send them away! You just relax and keep resting. I'll-"
"No, Karin." Sasuke finally stepped out into the light. Mystical smoke surrounded his form, and he took on his human-like appearance. He exhaled. "This is between us. And this time, it's personal." Sasuke suddenly charged at Naruto; the prince defended himself with his arm guards. They were locked in place now. "...did you know?" Sasuke growled.
"No." Naruto answered. "Not until I read my father's diary. I swear by it!"
"How could you not know?!" He snarled. "We looked almost similar! And yet-"
"Not every dragon is the same, Sasuke. You taught me that."
"Grr!" Sasuke pushed harder on the prince, causing him to sink into the mud beneath him. "Don't you fucking dare spout that nonsense to me right now!"
"Ngh! Kiba, whatever happens… don't interfere."
The knight frowned, not liking where the situation was going but gave a slow nod. This was something that could only be worked out between the two of them. He took several steps back and watched them carefully.
"I should tear you apart!" Sasuke snapped.
"Then do it. I told you already: if you want to beat me bloody, I'll let you. But I'm not going to go home crying over something like this. I'm not you." He bit back, smirking.
"!" Sasuke's eyes began to glow with rage. "Damn you!" He slashed Naruto's face.
"Ah!" Blood splattered on his clothing. Yet, Naruto still held fast.
"All this time…" Sasuke whispered. "All this fucking time…"
"Yeah. I know." Naruto tried to empathize. "But that doesn't mean we have to kill each other over it. We don't have to repeat the past, Sasuke. That's why I need you; Konoha needs you."
"For what? I'll just go rogue like my brother."
"No. I won't let that happen, Sasuke. I already told you: you're different. Every dragon is. You aren't like your brother at all. And I'm… I'm not like my father at all." His blue eyes looked downtrodden. "Despite everyone in the kingdom saying so, I am not like my dad. He fought every day. He was strong every day. He looked after every single person. He was the shining example of a ruler. And I'm nothing like that. Or at least, not yet anyway. But that doesn't mean I have to give up. That doesn't mean I have to sit around and continue to be a disappointment." He started pushing back on Sasuke. "And that goes double for you! If you want to take revenge on someone, then help me find the bastard responsible for all of this! Help me, Sasuke."
Sasuke's haunting yellow eyes continued to stare at the blonde. Thunder crackled in the sky, and lightning flashed in the distance. Rather than answering, Sasuke tripped Naruto up with his tail, causing the prince to fall backward into the mud.
"Hey!" Naruto sat up, disgusted with his dirty appearance. "Seriously?"
"Yeah. Seriously." Sasuke turned around; his arms were crossed. He swatted the ground with his tail in anger. Despite what he might think and how he felt, Naruto had a point: he should be angry at those responsible, not the prince himself. Even if it was Minato that killed his brother, there could have still been someone or something behind the scenes responsible for it. Sasuke knew more than Naruto after all, that the kingdom was corrupted and each day they were plotting against both him and the dragons. 'But it still fucking hurts.' It still hurt to be lied to. It still hurt to lose his brother. And it hurts even more to see that, through it all, his only hope was that of a meek, pathetic, annoying human prince. And yet, all the times they avoided death, saw death, helped each other, and discovered new things took over his thoughts every time just to remind Sasuke that he was the fool. And he was too prideful to admit it. He was too ashamed to come running back and face that hard truth.
"Sasuke?" Naruto called out, looking up at the male.
"...I'll keep helping you."
"What?"
"I said, I'll keep helping you!" Sasuke turned around, only for a clump of mud to be thrown at his face. There was silence from the dragon as Naruto began to laugh.
"Sorry. Just wanted you to face me so I could do that. You stupid dragon."
"You… idiot prince!" Sasuke kicked mud back at the blonde. And before they knew it, they were having a spar between them as they continued to get muddier and dirtier before tiring themselves out.
"Haha!" Naruto stood to his feet. He put a hand on Sasuke's shoulder. "I understand if this makes things awkward or tense between us. You can take all the time you need to think, Sasuke. But not out here. Not alone. Because I know what it feels like to be constantly trapped with your thoughts alone. It doesn't feel good. It eats at you, Sasuke. And you start to feel negative because of it. And didn't I tell you…" Naruto suddenly punched Sasuke hard in the gut.
"Guh!" Sasuke coughed, having the wind knocked out of him as he doubled over.
"...that I would be mad if you ran away and didn't tell me anything? You dumb ass dragon." He chided playfully, before his voice took on a serious tone again. "Don't do it again." With that, Naruto wiped the mud off his pants and shirt and then proceeded to walk back to the treeline. "Let's go home."
Sasuke watched in bewilderment as the blonde said those words; Kiba and Akamaru followed him. Karin looked at Sasuke. She gave a small smile and nodded before going her own way. And finally, it was just Sasuke himself left in the clearing. A single word echoed through his head. 'Home...'
~:::~
"Naruto, why is it that every time I look up, you are coming back to the castle covered in mud." Madara asked, arms folded as he tapped his foot on the floor and gave a disapproving look to the prince.
"Ahaha…" Naruto awkwardly scratched the back of his head. "Well uh, why is it that every time I go out and come back, you are here to conveniently greet me at the door?"
"Naruto."
"Ok, so look!" Naruto frantically began to explain. "I needed to go back and get Sasuke! And I kinda dragged Kiba into it! But don't get mad at him, he was just trying to help! And-"
"It is my fault." Sasuke spoke, kneeling before Madara. "Please do not take your frustrations out on the prince. If you need to punish someone, let it be me."
Madara looked at the dragon and raised a brow. "Alright. Now I really need to know what happened."
"Nothing happened! I just… I went to get Sasuke back. So he can help me."
"Mhm." Madara nodded his head. He placed a hand on his chin, and then his dark eyes drifted over to Naruto's blue ones. "And, help you with what?"
Naruto swallowed thickly, unsure of what he should say next. Sasuke stood up and responded to the mage himself. "We're going to try and save the forest. But we need to go to the desert and find the hidden kingdom. We're picking up where the late king left off. And for the record, I don't care if you object."
"S-Sasuke!" Naruto panicked at his response. 'Is he trying to get us zapped into dust!'
"Hm. I see." Madara closed his eyes in thought. "Yes. I do recall Minato repeatedly going on some fool's errand to search the desert. He attempted to keep his multiple quests a secret from me, but I am no fool. I knew that man was always up to something, especially something regarding dragons. It was obvious when he kept going back and forth through the desert."
"Wait, so you knew?!" Naruto asked. There was a hint of anger in his voice.
Madara sighed. "I am not claiming to know everything that you know, prince. So if you wish for me to understand, why don't you start from the top? And then perhaps, we can come to terms with what you are going to be doing next." The mage walked off. "Come."
Sasuke and Naruto gave each other a look before ultimately following the mage. They went into the private study together. And piece by piece, Naruto began to tell Madara of the contents and hints left behind in Minato's diary.
"I see." The mage answered once again. "So that's what it was. When I went to spy on him, he always did have either that old eastern dragon with him and then the troublesome black one." He cleared his throat. "Itachi."
Naruto was quiet but Sasuke continued the exchange. "So, how long did you know? How much did you know? Do you think I'm going to turn and go rogue just like my brother did?"
"Hmm…" Madara gave the dragon a once over. "No. I think something about the prince himself is causing you to keep your composure. For now." He tapped his fingers on the table. "So I do think you both should continue working together. Now with that said, as to how much I knew: very little. And as for how long I knew: almost the entire time."
"But why didn't you say anything?!" Naruto finally spoke up. "If you knew then-"
"I already told you this, prince. I feared for your safety. Had I told you both the truth before you found out by yourselves, how would either of you react? What if I told you both as soon as Sasuke was brought here? Do you think, as it stands, that either he or yourself would be here at this very moment still working together?"
"..." There was only silence.
"Well then," Madara continued his speech. "It looks like that already answers your question. But yes, there were times I tailed your father. Naruto, do you recall the time when you were a child and you had a nightmare that a crow wandered into your room and you screamed because you thought it would peck out your eyes?"
"Dear gods, why did you have to remind me!?" The prince shuddered.
Madara chuckled. "It was no nightmare. It was me. You woke up and saw me on your nightstand. You freaked out and screamed, then I flew out of the window."
"Wait… you flew?"
"That is correct. Using a rare type of transformation magic, I can shapeshift into that of a crow. I consider it my familiar. It is a special practice that is almost long forgotten now since the war started."
"Really? That's freaking cool! But you asshole!" Naruto griped, tugging at his hair in frustration. "Why didn't you tell me anything?! I had nightmares about crows for days! You know I already can't sleep well!"
"Heheh. Well, that would have given me away~" He answered in amusement. "But yes, that is how I was, and am able, to keep tabs on the family when I, for lack of a better word, suspect they are up to something."
"I hate you, Madara."
"I know you do, prince."
"So then, have you been aware of me and Naruto's situations the whole time?"
"Not the whole time." Madara admitted. "I have been rather busy with helping your grandfather handle things within the kingdom. Since your mother died, Naruto, I want you to know that I do regret being unable to find or catch those responsible. At the time, I had all of my focus put on Sasuke. I was so certain that-" The mage cut himself off. "Well, there is no need to bring it up again."
"It's alright, Madara. But I'll forgive you even more if you teach me how to turn into a crow!"
"Foolish boy! Did you not hear me say that it is a type of magic no longer practiced? My own mentor was the one who taught me how to shapeshift. It requires a huge amount of magic and should only be used sparingly. And in order to do so, you need to have a familiar." A crow flew in from the window and landed on Madara's shoulder. "Or at the very least, a spirit pact with a magical creature. I suppose you could always see if Kurama is willing to teach you such a thing."
"Oh. My. God." Naruto said, blue eyes sparkling with intrigue. 'Can I really do that? I need to pester him!'
"Besides, you and Sasuke both will be remaining in the castle."
"What?!" The dragon growled. "We're not staying here! Don't you understand? We have to-"
Madara put his hand up. "I understand perfectly well, dragon." He glared at the two males. "I understand that both of you are nowhere near ready to face the world outside of this kingdom. The lands that lie beyond the forest are dangerous, treacherous, and unforgiving. If you think that after hearing such a thing, despite how noble and desperate you are, that I am going to simply turn you loose, ha! Well, you certainly thought wrong. Sasuke, you aren't even a hundred years old yet. And I have seen what older dragons that are half your size can do. So do not even think of trying to challenge me by showcasing your meek firepower and strength."
"Grr!" Sasuke clenched his teeth and stared Madara down. He wanted to say something, but knew that the mage was right. He didn't want to admit it, but even Karin was strong and he's seen Homura put other dragons in their place despite his crippled body.
"As for you, Naruto. You have finally shown promise with harnessing the power of wind. Yet, you haven't mastered a second element. I can't even sense capable power from any other element within your body. You are weak. And certainly not up to the task of handling what your father was capable of. So if you want to go out there and show everyone that you are the hero that all living things in Konoha need, then get stronger. And prove it."
"Yes." Naruto nodded. The familiar determined look on his face was showing again. "I understand. I know that I'm weak. I know I can do better. And I know I have what it takes to save not just Konoha, but every kingdom that is out there suffering." He stood up. "And it's not like I'll be doing it alone. It's like you said, Madara: I have help. Sasuke, Grandfather, Kiba, Neji, Shikamaru… everyone is behind me."
"Especially since they'll be going with you."
"Wait, what?!" Naruto looked at the mage.
"Did you really think that I would be letting you go out there alone, Naruto? Let's say you do find something. Then what? If it is only you and Sasuke, will you retreat? If you have additional help, you will be able to stay out there and fight. If the monsters in the desert are as dangerous as your father proclaimed, then you aren't going to be able to handle them by yourselves." He stated. "And so as such, you will have to pick and choose who you want as your backup. Someone you can trust with your life. I would love to aid you outside of training, but I must stay here. I have to overlook the rest of the duties here and keep your grandfather and the people safe. Not to mention, the court is especially not going to like this idea. I am almost certain that they will want you to stay here rather than leave. But… as we have already seen for ourselves, nothing is going to change if you stay."
Sasuke and Naruto watched the mage as he stood to his feet and began to pace. He seemed to be in thought as he crossed his hands behind his back. Finally, he broke the silence again. "Two months."
"What?" Naruto gave the mage a confused look.
"I will give you two months to train. Two months to hone both of your battle skills. I want you to act as if you are training for war. It will not be easy, and I don't expect to go easy on you either. Do you understand?"
"Wait, Madara! Two months, seriously? I mean, I get it but-"
"That just moves Naruto's coronation date closer. We don't have that kind of time to afford!" Sasuke said, slamming his fist on the table.
"If you're saying that, then it means you aren't confident in your abilities to begin with. A true king will take whatever risks he can no matter how much time he has." His cold, steel eyes hardened at the pair. "If time is truly of the essence, then I suggest you start using it while you can wisely. Because if you don't, you will fail at what you want to accomplish." Madara moved towards the door. "I will allow you time to think about what it is you want to do. And when you are ready, come see me." The mage left the study.
"Man!" Naruto groaned, throwing his head back in a huff. "Madara sure finds a way to make things even more difficult than they already are."
"...let's just leave."
"What?" Naruto looked at Sasuke. "No way! Madara will probably be lurking around every corner now! Besides… I agree with him. I want to get stronger, Sasuke! I want to protect those that I love! And I can't do that unless I give it everything I've got and push myself to do it!"
"..."
"I want to protect you too, Sasuke."
"!" Sasuke looked at the prince, locking eyes with him since the first time they left the forest.
"I know you said you wanted to be the one looking out for me, but it's not fair to be one-sided like that. Besides, there's been something on my mind…"
"What?"
'What were you trying to say that day?' But Naruto didn't have the courage to ask. "Uh… I just…" Naruto struggled to answer. "I don't hate dragons anymore. Or rather, I mean… I don't hate you, Sasuke."
Sasuke was quiet for a moment. "I know. I don't hate you either. But I'll still hate humans."
"Oh. Ok." Naruto seemed to have an irritated kind of look. 'That's not it! I meant that I… ugh! Forget it, stupid dragon! I hate you after all!'
'What's with him? Did I say something wrong? It's true. I can't forgive humans for what they have done to dragons. But Naruto isn't like them. I thought I made that clear already.' The memories of him and Naruto having sex suddenly came back to mind. He looked away, giving himself a sullen look as he hid his face beneath his bangs. 'Right, that. I need to remember to keep control of myself. The concoction Kabuto gave me should help. I can focus on training and not… that stuff. I think this will be a good idea after all.' But why did he suddenly start thinking of that anyway? This only happened when-
"Sasuke, what's wrong?"
The dragon lifted his head. "Nothing! I was just mulling things over. You're right. Let's train. And then we can go out there and find what your father couldn't."
"Alright! Let's go tell Madara our decision!"
"Naruto, wait-"
"Hm?"
Sasuke eyed the blood still on the blonde's cheek from where he had slashed him. The urge to lick it quickly overcame him. God, he could smell it just from where he was sitting. "Y-your face."
"Oh right." Naruto touched his cheek. The slashes had long since stopped bleeding and the blonde couldn't even feel the marks anymore. 'Right. Now that I have a spirit pact with Kurama, I can heal almost instantly. But…' Naruto looked at Sasuke and smiled. "Don't worry. If it scars, then we can treat it as a memento! A reminder of our first fight! Haha!"
Sasuke blinked in confusion. "What? Don't say something like that!"
"Heh! Well, I'm leaving. I'll meet you in my room later!" And with that, the prince was off. There was a spring in his step and overall he seemed to be quite excited for the challenges he and Sasuke would prepare for.
But as for the dragon himself, he could feel his nerves starting to get to him again. So much happened. So many feelings that he wanted to keep hidden were exposed. On top of that, there was this constant battle of emotions he kept having, like an eternal tug of war. He was angry, then he was calm. He was worried, then he was happy. He was aroused, then he was confused. And every time he tried to make sense of it all, the prince would only say more things that confused him. He took the vial out of his clothing; it was the concoction that Kabuto brewed for him. He pulled the cork out and downed half of the pink mystery liquid. 'Alright. Let's do this.' Sasuke finally stood to his feet. 'Itachi, I'll avenge you and make the ones responsible pay.' He paused in his steps as he reached the door. He could hear the prince's voice echoing in the hall. 'Naruto...'