Summary: Deep within the Land of Frost area Kakashi never expected to find the one person the entire world believed to be dead. It was supposed to be a simple mission, go into the Frost Territory and hunt down the man that was wearing a Konoha ANBU mask and taking out other Great Nation ninja. Kakashi was to find this ninja and eliminate them. He never expected for that ninja to turn out to be a sixteen-year-old kid that can't speak. A young man that has been raising himself in a cave since he was just seven years old. This ninja is untrusting and has no memories of what life used to be like. Adding to Kakashi's confusion, this ninja tells him that his older brother made it clear that only Kakashi could be trusted. When Kakashi is finally able to get the ninja to remove the ANBU mask, everything Kakashi thought he knew gets turned upside down once again. It was no longer a matter of killing this young man, but protecting him and bringing a prince back home to Konoha where he belongs.
Chapter 1
Kakashi stood there in the Hokage's office once again. He had returned from a mission just a few days ago and he was already being called in for another one. He had noticed that everyone seemed to be busier than normal and he suspected that something was building in the criminal world. He had seen it before, but the last time the criminal world built like this, a world war broke out. Kakashi had been busier recently in the past couple of years. He had been a Jounin Sensei, but his one student was off training with a sanin, his other was training to be a medic under the Hokage and his third student was working in the ANBU. He had been a sensei without students for two years now. He didn't mind, they were all growing up and coming into their own ninja. He had done his job, he kept them alive and trained them to get them to this point. They took to the sky with confidence and Kakashi couldn't be prouder of Naruto, Sakura and Sai.
Kakashi was surprised to see that Danzo was with the Hokage in her office. Danzo was not a man that Kakashi liked at all, but he had to tolerate the man as he was on the Council.
"Tsunade-Sama, Danzo, what can I do for you both?"
"A situation has been brought to our attention. A small village within the Land of Frost has a vigilante attacking bandits and other ninja from Great Nations. This vigilante is wearing an old ANBU mask from Konoha. As you know our relationship with the Land of Frost is on shaky footing and this vigilante is causing additional problems with the other Great Nations. He is attacking ninja wearing that mask. I do not need to tell you the risk of war this puts us in." Tsunade said.
"Do we know who this vigilante is or how he was able to obtain a mask?" Kakashi asked. He knew that if the Great Nations blamed Konoha they could be looking at war on different fronts.
"The mask has been described to us, it belonged to Uchiha Itachi. We know for certain that it is not him. We had eyes on him over the past three years, he's nowhere near there at the time of these attacks. This vigilante was able to obtain his mask somehow and when he is arrested we will determine how." Danzo said with an edge to his voice.
"You are to go to the village and observe this vigilante. Find out his identity and anything you can on him. Find out if there is any truth to the rumors we have heard. If he is only attacking those that are criminals, get the mask back and we'll keep a closer eye on it. If he is attacking ninja from other Great Nations, arrest him and bring him back." Tsunade ordered.
"Yes Hokage-Sama. I'll report in once I have information."
"Try not to upset the locals. Vigilantes have a habit of getting the local support. We don't want to cause a bigger problem with the Land of Frost by insulting their villagers or taking an asset away from them. We just need to make sure he is not attacking other ninjas." Tsunade said.
"I will tread carefully and handle this as a political mission."
"He so much as attacks one ninja in your sight, you terminate him." Danzo ordered.
"Yes Sir."
"Dismissed." Tsunade said.
Kakashi headed out of the office and made his way back to his apartment so he could grab a few things. The Land of Frost tended to be colder and with the weather he would need to have his winter coat, gloves and boots. It would take him five days to reach the village as long as nothing came up along the way. Once he got there he would need to get set up in a hotel room and take in the tourist view of the village. He didn't want to give the wrong impression. When he got there he would have to play it cool and see what he could find.
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It was five days later when Kakashi was walking into the village. It was a small village, only an eighth of the size of Konoha. Most lived in apartments above a store that they owned or they lived on a farm. It was a village without any protection like many that live outside of the Great Nations. It was even worse out this far. Places like this were easy pickings for bandits and s-class criminals. It didn't surprise Kakashi at all that people here would be happy to have a vigilante to protect them. The problem would be if this vigilante was attacking other ninja. Kakashi got himself a motel room, as he had a feeling he would be here awhile. He made nice with the owner and dropped his things off in his room before going down to speak with the owner running the desk.
"May I help you Sir?" The elderly man asked.
"I hope so. I'm taking some vacation time and was wondering where the best place to eat in town is."
"That would be Ms. Bell's place. A lovely little diner just down the road from here. She does the best comfort food. If you don't mind my asking, why are you vacationing here? It's a little out of the way for a Konoha ninja."
"I like vacationing in smaller villages around the world. I try a new area each time. We don't get snow in Konoha."
"Well you better make sure you stay warm. A winter storm is coming. Expected to get to minus twenty overnight and three feet of snow. It's supposed to last for two weeks, the worst storm in history to hit us."
"I'll stay warm. Thanks for the heads up."
"No problem. You enjoy now."
Kakashi gave a warm smile and headed out. He would grab something to eat, after he looked around the small town. He didn't know what he was looking for really. It wasn't like there would be a sign for a vigilante. Kakashi had no idea who it could be or where they would be living. He would have to see if he could catch someone talking about it or this vigilante showed up. The village wasn't anything special, mostly farm lands. But it was vulnerable to attacks. The cold weather made it difficult for people to grow any crops. The last thing they needed were criminals coming in and burning them or ripping them apart. Not too far from the village was a set of mountains and a large pond that was frozen. There were also a few natural hot springs that could be used as well.
Kakashi made his way into the diner and took a seat down in a booth. The diner was old fashioned and it looked like it had never been renovated. A larger woman came over to him with a cautious smile on her face.
"Afternoon, can I get you something to drink?" She asked, as she placed a menu down.
"Water is fine."
"Can't do water. It's all been contaminated." She said tightly.
"Oh, by what?"
"Poison. It was dropped into the freshwater supply. Killed fifteen animals and sent twenty people to the hospital. Eight of which were kids."
"When did this happen?"
"Two days ago. Why all the questions? Were you one of the ninja that did it?"
"I only just got here. It's rare for criminals to poison a water supply, especially one where they may drink it. Why do you think ninjas did it?"
"Ninja are always coming here causing problems. Never any from Konoha, you don't tend to come this far up. People don't like ninja here. Can never trust them."
"Well I assure you I am not here to cause any trouble. Just taking some time off and wanted to come up north and see it. Is there something I can do to help cleanse the water?"
"It's being taken care of. I can get you juice or milk. Anything that doesn't require water to be made."
"Orange juice is fine."
"Be right back."
Kakashi took in the handful of people in the dinner and he could see they were all weary of him. Ninja were not trusted around here and if it was a ninja that poisoned the water supply then this vigilante might be justified in attacking ninja. Kakashi would have to check out the freshwater supply and see if there was any evidence left behind. He didn't know of any jutsu that would cleanse water of poison, they would have to wait it out. It could take awhile though for that to happen. In the meantime their crops would dry up, their animals would die from dehydration and it would make the elderly and small children sick and possibly die. It would be a devastating blow to this village.
The waitress came back and placed Kakashi's drink down on the table. "What can I get for you?"
"Whatever you recommend. I'm easy."
The waitress just gave a nod, grabbed the menu and headed back to the kitchen. Kakashi wasn't expecting a warm welcome, but it was icier than he did expect. He couldn't blame them though, if they had trouble with ninja in the past it would only make sense that they didn't care for them. What Kakashi couldn't figure out was where the Ninja of the Frost were in all of this. They should have been here to help treat the water. They should have been here to keep a water supply going even if that was bottles. They should have been here doing patrols, but when Kakashi walked around the village he didn't see or sense any ninja. It made no sense. When the waitress brought his food over it smelled amazing and Kakashi realised how hungry he was.
"Thank-you. It smells amazing."
"Enjoy."
"Quick question if I may. Where are the Frost ninja in all of this? I didn't see any in the village."
"They don't come here. A small village like this means nothing to the Frost Village. They focus on the people that can pay for their services. Enjoy your food."
Kakashi let her go knowing that she was not in the mood for a chat. Kakashi sat there and ate his meal. It was very good and Kakashi couldn't remember the last time he ate cooking like this. Once he was finished he didn't stick around, no one was talking with him in the room. Kakashi decided he would go to where their main water supply was and see what he could find. As Kakashi walked he could see the snow clouds rolling in, it was already getting colder out. He was seriously debating on if he brought a warm enough jacket. He had sweaters he could throw on underneath it, but it would be cold out come nightfall. He wouldn't want to be caught out in it. Kakashi followed the stream all the way to the large pond where the main flow of water was. He stopped short in the trees when he saw a person bent down in front of the water. Kakashi could clearly see the ANBU mask. This was the vigilante.
"What are you doing?" Kakashi whispered.
He took the vigilante in, from what he could see he wasn't very old.
"You're just a teenager. Where are your parents?"
This didn't make any sense. From what Kakashi could see the young man was thin, he clearly wasn't eating right, but Kakashi could see muscle definition to him. So he stayed in shape. He was wearing black pants, black boots and a black jacket. It was a winter jacket, but it didn't look very warm. It would do nothing against the cold weather coming. It made no sense. He was only a teenager, somewhere between fifteen and at most seventeen. He shouldn't be a vigilante. He shouldn't be out on his own and he shouldn't be able to take on criminals and ninjas. Kakashi had more questions now and there was only one way to get the answers.
Kakashi was about to go over there and talk to him, but the vigilante started to draw something in the light dusting of snow in front of the water. He then started to make hand seals. Kakashi stayed there and watched to see what would happen. He recognized some of the hand signs, but he didn't on others. And for someone that knows over a thousand techniques that was saying something. After a moment the signs he drew into the snow started to glow and the whole pond and stream of water did as well. Kakashi didn't know how it was possible, but it looked like he was cleansing the water.
"That's impossible."
After a moment the glowing stopped and the vigilante reached down and cupped some water into his hands. Barely moving the mask he was able to drink the water before he stood back up. Kakashi noticed that it was in fact Itachi's mask he was wearing, he was also wearing a sword that looked a lot like Itachi's. Only he carried it on his hips, it was an odd place for someone to carry their weapon, especially a sword. Kakashi figured it was now or never to approach this vigilante. Kakashi came out of the trees and made sure he made noise so he wouldn't startle the young man. The man quickly turned his head towards him and Kakashi could tell he wasn't used to being snuck up on. Kakashi held his hands up in front of him slightly to show he didn't mean to harm him.
"It's ok, I'm not here to cause any problems. That was an interesting jutsu you just did. I've never seen anyone do something like that before. Where did you learn how?"
Kakashi didn't know what he expected, but silence wasn't it. He tried a different angle.
"That mask you are wearing, it's an ANBU mask from my village, Konoha. Where did you come across it?"
Again Kakashi was met with silence.
"You aren't very chatty. How about something easier. My name is Hatake Kakashi, what's your name? Where are your parents?"
Nothing, but silence. Kakashi was not sure what this kid's deal was, but he had no interest in talking. Kakashi watched as the kid got into a fighting position. He placed his hand on the hilt of his sword.
"Don't do it. I am not like the other criminals or ninja you have fought. I am a Jounin, an elite ninja. I was in the ANBU when I was younger than you. You can't beat me. All you will do is get hurt and I don't want to hurt you. I think you are trying to do something good for this village, but what you are doing, going after ninja, you are messing with politics that you won't even begin to understand. Let's just talk instead."
Kakashi could see it didn't work. This young man was very interested in fighting. Kakashi figured he would play along and then once he had the kid down he would take the mask off and get some answers from him. Kakashi was prepared for the charge of the kid. He started to spar with him in hand to hand. He could tell that this kid wasn't formally trained, but he was good with his hand to hand and his footwork. He was fast too. It started off as Kakashi just entertaining the idea of this fight, but as it started he was quickly becoming interested. This kid could fight, he was as good as some of the Jounin in the village. Kakashi pulled out a kunai to see if the kid could keep up with any weaponry. The kid also pulled out one and they fought against each other in a small sword fight. Kakashi was impressed. This kid was good, even untrained. A strong kick sent them apart and Kakashi was ready to call it done, but the kid kept coming. Only this time it was a fireball jutsu. Kakashi easily dodged it, but decided now was the time to stop things.
"You seem to really want to push this. Fine. Allow me to show you what a real ninja can do."
Kakashi was only going to warn him off though, he wasn't looking to hurt him. He got his chidori going and ran at the kid. Without even any hesitation the kid ran at him, easily blocking the swipes Kakashi was making. It was like he could predict what Kakashi was going to do. Then out of nowhere Kakashi saw the kid make his own chidori and come at him. Kakashi was forced to use his free hand and lift his forehead protector, exposing his Sharingan eye just so he could dodge the lethal attack. They both waived and dodged until they finally impacted both chidoris together. Causing a loud explosion, forcing them both back on opposite sides of the clearing. They both landed crouched over using their feet to slow down the momentum. Kakashi was shocked, beyond shocked. Here was this teenager, not trained professionally, and yet he forced him to use his Sharingan. He was able to dodge his own attacks with perfect ease and able to use his chidori, something that no one but him knew. It was impossible and yet it was right in front of him. The kid stood up straight and Kakashi did as well. He didn't know if the kid would continue or not. He was hoping not. He really didn't want to hurt him, but he wasn't about to be killed himself. The kid just jumped to the trees and ran faster than Kakashi could even keep track of, even with his Sharingan and then he was gone.
"What the hell was that?" Kakashi said with a sigh.
He put his forehead protector back down and summoned Shiba.
"What's up Boss?"
"There's a boy, around fifteen wearing a Konoha ANBU mask. He's got my scent all over him. Track him, I need to know where he's living."
"You got it Boss."
"Stay warm."
Shiba took off and Kakashi figured he would go back to the motel room and get warmed up himself. It was getting colder out and he didn't want to be trapped outside if it started to snow. He wouldn't be able to do anything until he found out where the kid was living. Then he could find out who he was and how he got that mask.
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It was just after three when Shiba jumped up to the window and Kakashi let him in. It was snowing pretty heavy out now and the wind was picking up. This was only the start of what was promising to be a very powerful storm. Shiba came in and shook off the snow.
"It's getting cold out there, even for me."
"Sorry. I didn't expect for a storm when I agreed to this mission. Did you find him."
"Ya the pup is crazy. Found where he lives, in a cave. He sleeps outside. I checked it out when he went to collect firewood. He's got an old ratty bedroll and blanket. No pillow, no thick warm blanket. Nothing blocking the entrance from the cold or snow. He's as far back into the cave as he can be. There's a small fire pit closer to the entrance so he doesn't die from carbon monoxide. I stayed until he got back and got a fire going. He never took the mask off."
"He's outside in this weather?"
"Yup. Based on smell, he's been there for a long time. Years. There's nothing personal though. No photos, no extra clothes, nothing to cook with. He's been living rough for years."
"Can you tell how many?"
"No, but at least five."
"He's no older than seventeen, probably closer to fifteen. That means he's been on his own for at least since he was ten or twelve. That answers the parent question. He is either an orphan by their death or they kicked him out. Probably more likely to be the first one in this area. He didn't remove the mask?"
"Not once. He didn't eat either."
"Wearing the mask out in public makes sense. He wants to keep his identity a secret, but once he was back in the cave he should have felt safe enough to take it off. Which means he doesn't feel safe. Either of being found by someone or of being himself."
"What do you want to do Boss?"
"What I want to do and what I can are different. I want to bring him here, get him warmed and get that mask off to get some answers from him. But he won't willingly come and based on that sparring match we had, he's got enough skill to get away. I don't want him out in this weather too afraid to go back to the cave. I'll have to wait until tomorrow and go and see him. Maybe I can convince him to talk to me or get him to eat something."
"What do you need me to do? Keep watch on him?"
"No it's too cold out there for you. We can't do anything tonight. I appreciate the help. Do you want to head back home or stay here?"
"I'll go back, warmer at my place."
"Get some rest."
"Let me know what happens with the pup."
"Will do. Thanks."
Kakashi released the jutsu and looked out the window. The snow was getting heavier and he knew that come morning it would be thick. He hated to think that there was a teenager sleeping in a cave right now. This was not the weather for anyone to be out in, much less an orphan. This mission was not turning out how he had expected it to. He thought he would be going up against a grown man, not some teenager. He needed answers and tomorrow he would hopefully have some. For now there was nothing he could do, no matter how much he didn't like it.
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It was just after eight that next morning when Kakashi found Sasuke's cave. He got Shiba to help him get here before sending him back. Kakashi noticed that the fire was almost completely out. He went around to grab some firewood that he could find. The thick snow was making it harder for him to find any. He had to use his chakra to walk on the snow and not fall in. After collecting some pieces of firewood Kakashi headed back to the cave. He saw that the kid was asleep on the cold hard ground. The old bedroll would do nothing to protect him from the ground. The second Kakashi stepped foot in the cave, the kid popped up into a sitting position, throwing a kunai at the same time. Kakashi got it with his free hand as he placed the firewood down on the ground.
"You have fast reflexes. And good aim for being woken up. Your fire is going out. With weather like this you need to stay warm." Kakashi tossed some wood onto the fire before he went over and handed the kunai back over.
The kid took it and sat back against the cave wall. Kakashi took that as a good sign, he wasn't a threat to him. That also confused him, because he should be a threat. Kakashi went and sat down with his back against the opposite wall as he spoke.
"Are you going to talk to me today? I really don't mean you any harm. I'd like to get to know you. Find out why you would be living in a cave in an area like this. The Frost territory is not exactly designed for people to be roughing it."
Again Kakashi was met with silence. Something he was finding to be very frustrating.
"This silence act is really starting to get annoying and old. I could have you arrested for wearing that mask. Complete honesty, I was sent here on a mission for you. A vigilante that is attacking ninja from Great Nations. One wearing a Konoha ANBU mask. The relationships between Great Nations are rocky at best. You are causing problems for Konoha, that's dangerous kid. I don't want to arrest you and bring you to Konoha for you to be thrown in jail. I think you are trying to do the right thing. I think this village has been forgotten about and is being victimized by criminals and shady ninja. I can't help you if you won't talk to me. I know trusting someone must be hard for you, but you can trust me."
Kakashi could see the kid tap his finger against his leg. It was the only indication that he was thinking. After a moment he lifted his head up to show his neck. He tapped his finger to it and Kakashi could see the deep scar that ran across his neck. His throat had been slashed at some point. Close to ten years ago based on the scar. He hadn't spoken, because he couldn't.
"How many years has it been?"
The kid held up nine fingers and then did the so so sign.
"Do you know sign language?" Kakashi said, as he signed it at the same time.
The kid shook his head. He couldn't talk and he couldn't sign, which meant he hadn't been able to communicate with anyone in nine years. That did not mean well for his mental health. Kakashi pulled out his small notebook and a pen.
"I'm assuming you can write."
The kid reached out and took the offered items.
"Nice and simple first, what's your name?"
He wrote it down and turned it around.
"Sasuke. Nice to meet you Sasuke. How old are you?"
"Sixteen."
"Ok, how long have you been living like this?"
"Since I was seven."
"Seven? Awfully young to be living on your own. Have you always stayed here?" Kakashi received a nod and he continued. "Were you born in this area?" A head shake that time. "Where were you born?"
Sasuke didn't write anything down and Kakashi figured he wasn't going to be getting that answer out of him.
"You won't tell me, but that does tell me that you are not from here. What about the mask and the sword? Where did you get them?"
"Found them."
"Together?"
"Yes."
"But you won't tell me where. Let's see what you can tell me. Why are you attacking ninja?"
"They were hurting people. Being from a Great Nation doesn't make that ninja good. Great Nations are more corrupt than smaller villages. The larger the village the more power hungry people are. The bigger the corruption. I wasn't about to stand around and let innocent people be robbed or assaulted."
"I would never expect you to. And you are right about corruption living in larger villages. The Great Nations are not perfect, we have a lot of problems with each other and internally. It's the good ninja that live within those villages that are trying to make it right. Was it ninja that poisoned the water?"
"From the Earth. Retaliation for the ninja that I attacked. I think. A squad from the Earth came in a month ago. They started to force shop owners to pay them money every month or they would destroy their store. Last month they targeted the only doctor's office in the village. He doesn't charge for his services, he gets a small amount of money from the Hidden Frost Village to keep it open. He didn't have anything to give. They almost beat him to death by the time I got there. I sent them back with broken bones. Three weeks later the water was poisoned with a common poison in the Earth territory."
"You did the right thing stepping in. They don't have any right to do that. You were brave to step in, fighting ninja can be very dangerous. Especially for someone that is self-taught. You cleansed the water supply. I've never seen anyone be able to do that before. I've never seen some of the seals you used. How did you do it?"
"I don't know."
"You don't know how you did something that should be impossible to do?"
Sasuke gave a shrug as he wrote. "I just knew it. I can't explain it. Sometimes I get these images in my mind of different seals. My brother says it's because I'm special."
"Sounds like you are. You have a brother? Older or younger?"
"Older."
"Where is he?"
"Handling what needs to be handled."
"What does that mean?"
"It means he has a higher purpose that he has to handle right now."
"Alright, and I'm going to assume you won't tell me where that higher purpose is."
"All over."
"For how long?"
"Nine years now."
"Since you were attacked. And he's left you alone this whole time?"
"He didn't have a choice. He didn't want to, but it wasn't safe for me to be with him."
"You are being more forthcoming with the information than I thought you would be. I was expecting to have to drag it out of you."
"Brother said you were the only one that can be trusted."
That confused Kakashi. Why would Sasuke's brother, who he has never met, would tell Sasuke to trust him. When did he tell him this? It couldn't have been last night and they just met yesterday.
"Your brother told you that you could trust me? When was this?"
"In the beginning."
"Nine years ago? I've met your brother?"
"Long time ago."
"And he told you that you could trust me?"
"Only you. You were the only person he ever trusted. Said you were the only person I could trust. Never expected to meet you though. He said you were always fun to spar with. I was curious."
"I know your brother?" This was blowing Kakashi's mind. He had no idea who Sasuke was or who his brother was. It made no sense. Kakashi knew he should know who this brother was. He had been all over the world though, it could be anyone he had helped.
"The part of him that he shows the world, yes."
"You knew who I was when you saw me. You wanted to test your skill. You knew about my chidori so I must have done it around your brother for him to have seen it and show you it. You did really well. How long have you been training?"
"Since I was three."
"Why not be a ninja in one of the villages officially?"
"I have to stay hidden."
"Why?"
"Brother said so."
"And your brother is?"
Kakashi was met with silence. That didn't surprise him. It was natural for Sasuke to be more guarded about his brother. Whatever his brother was doing Sasuke considered it too valuable to release. Kakashi knew he couldn't press Sasuke on this. He had to pick his battles carefully. He wanted to get Sasuke back to the motel and sleeping inside, not out here in this weather.
"Why don't you come back to the motel with me? You can eat something, get some sleep, take a hot shower."
"I trust you just enough to tell you this. But I don't trust you that much. I don't trust anyone that much."
"It has to have been hard on you though. You've been living like this for nine years. You must have gotten cold, sick, you can't tell me you've eaten right. What do you do for food? Where do you shower and get warm?"
"I eat what I can hunt. I use the hot springs sometimes. I shower in the pond. It's what I'm used to."
"But only for the last nine years. What about from before that?"
"I don't really have any of those memories."
"None about your parents or friends?"
"I remember what my parents look like, but that's it. I wasn't allowed to have friends."
"You don't remember having fun? Birthdays? Sleeping in a bed even? Nothing?"
"We didn't celebrate birthdays or holidays. We weren't really allowed to have fun either. I don't remember anything from back then. This is the only life I remember having."
"It's not an easy life to have Sasuke. Your brother must want something better for you. This can't be the life he wanted you to have. I know he's doing something that you both think that what he is doing is really important, but it can't be worth risking your life over living this way. This isn't normal Sasuke."
"Then what is normal? Because I don't know it."
"Depends on the person, but normal for the majority of people is having friends, some of those friends become your family. I don't have any blood family left alive, but I have a really great family from my closest friends. To have people there for you when times are good and hard. To have a real home, with a bed and a bathroom. A place where you can be free to be yourself without fear. To be able to pursue a career from what you love doing. To one day making a family of your own. Don't you want that?"
"We were taught that dreams were for the weak. Brother says I'm special, maybe I'm not supposed to know what normal is. Maybe this is my normal until he's done."
"What's your plan then Sasuke? The weather is only going to get worse. It's said to be the worst storm in history here. You can't survive something like that in a cave with no protection. Even if you could make it through the storm, how much longer do you live this way? Hiding who you are, living rough? It's been nine years, nine long years I'd imagine, aren't you tired?"
"I'm not weak."
"It's not about being weak Sasuke. I don't think you are. I think you are incredibly strong to survive this long. It's about wanting something more. Wanting a break. It's about not having to constantly be the tough one, being able to be vulnerable and feeling lost. You're only sixteen, you should be finding yourself and learning where you want your place in the world to be. You get to be tired Sasuke." Kakashi said gently.
"He's counting on me. I have to be ready for when it's time. I don't get to be tired."
"When it's time for what Sasuke?"
"I can't. This is my life, I've accepted that. I have to be strong. I've survived this long, I can make it through until he's ready."
"Even if you do make it through the storm Sasuke, you can't keep attacking or killing ninjas with that mask on. You'll start a war and more ninja will come to kill you. Ninja from other Great Nations, ANBU squads will hunt you down. You are talented, but you won't survive against a squad of ANBU right now. You need more training for that. Real training. Why don't you come back with me. Explain how you got the mask and why you were attacking ninja. The Hokage, she's very understanding. She won't arrest you if she knew that these ninja were hurting people. You were just protecting this village, she can't fault you for that."
"I can't. I can't go there. I can't take the mask off. No one can know who I am. Brother was adamant about that. No one can see."
"But you said that your brother said it was ok for me to know. That I'm the only one he trusted. I have no idea who he is but if he trusts me, then he must trust me enough to help you. Why do you have to stay hidden? And where did your brother get that mask? Your mask and sword came from an S-Class criminal who used to be in Konoha. How did he find it?"
"I don't know how he found it. I know he wouldn't want me in Konoha. I have to stay hidden. This is my life, I accepted it a long time ago. I don't need any help. I can take care of myself."
"Just because you can take care of yourself, doesn't mean you should have to do it alone. You're sixteen, I don't know what you've been through. I know you were attacked and lost your voice from it. I know you've been living on your own like this since you were seven years old. You were robbed of a childhood. You were forced to grow up before you were ever ready. You don't have to take care of yourself all by yourself. You need to let people in, let someone in that you can talk to when you are confused or in trouble. Someone that can be the tough one when you need the break. No one can go through this world alone Sasuke. You need someone in your corner."
"I have my brother."
"But you don't Sasuke. In your heart, yes of course, but he's not here for you. He's not here to make sure you don't freeze to death or be there to help you when you get hurt. Because you will get hurt eventually Sasuke. You are good, you're very good, but at some point an ANBU squad from one of the Great Nations will come after you and you won't be able to win a fight against them. Not just yet. You need more training to handle large numbers. Come to Konoha with me. I will get the Hokage to give you a pass, you can be a ninja there. I'll train you and then you can be ready to help your brother with whatever he's busy doing."
It was tempting, very tempting. When Sasuke said he didn't remember much from before the attack, he meant it. He had noticed that as time went on, the more he was alone, the harder it was to remember anything from back then. He could remember the bad things, not celebrating birthdays or holidays. He could remember his parents telling him that there was no such thing as Santa at Christmas when he came home all excited after overhearing a group of children talking about it. He had gone up to the children and had asked them what Santa was and what presents were. Sasuke could clearly remember the look they gave him when he didn't know what either of those things were at five years old. He was so excited, but then his parents had told him the truth about Santa and that there wouldn't be any presents. The only warmth he had ever experienced was from his brother.
When his brother told him that he had to stay hidden, that he couldn't let people know who he was, Sasuke agreed. He didn't ask too many questions and the ones he did ask he never got an answer to. His brother told him it was to protect him, that he had to stay hidden until he came back for him. At seven years old, Sasuke had no idea how he was supposed to survive on his own, especially in this area, but he figured it would only be for a week or two at most. That turned into months then years and now after nine years Sasuke was almost afraid to leave. He wanted to leave, he wanted to see the world and to be trained properly, he wanted to help his brother with whatever was going on. But at the same time he was afraid to leave this cave. Hiding his face, being told he couldn't be seen, after nine years it had taken a toll on him mentally. He was truly afraid of anyone seeing his face, he hadn't even seen his face in nine years. What if his brother was right and it wasn't safe for him to be seen? What if he put people in danger because he didn't want to be trapped here anymore? If he was special like his brother said, then there was no telling what repercussions there were from that. Maybe it would be better for him to stay here, stay hidden.
"I can't."
That was all that Sasuke found himself able to write. He wished he could have explained why, but he didn't even really know himself. He felt so torn and confused and he wished he could have talked to his brother about this, but he couldn't. It was hard to tell what Kakashi was thinking when Sasuke could only see a quarter of his face, but a small understanding went through his visible eye. Sasuke was hoping that this would be the end of the conversation, yet at the same time he didn't want Kakashi to leave. This was the first time in nine years that he had been able to have a conversation with someone. Sasuke didn't realise how much he missed it until now.
"I'm not going to forget about you Sasuke. Maybe one day you will be able to leave with me. To reach out and take a better life. For now, we need to talk about the ninja. I don't want to have to take that mask from you, I know you are using it to hide your identity, but you also can't be attacking ninja from a Great Nation wearing it."
Kakashi let out a sigh, this was not what he was expecting when he accepted this mission. He couldn't let Sasuke keep the mask, but at the same time, he couldn't take the mask from him. It was a mess, one that needed a solution.
"I would like to tell you to stop attacking ninjas from Great Nations, but I know you are only doing it to protect the people of this village. What I need you to do is stop attacking them when they can see you. Do it from a distance, so they can't say who their attackers were. Do you think you can do that?"
Sasuke just gave a nod and Kakashi was happy they at least came to that agreement.
"I can't get you to agree to coming with me to the hotel, even for a night? You can get some real sleep, in a bed and some food. A little bit of a recharge." Kakashi offered and he was really hoping Sasuke would accept.
It was very tempting to Sasuke to spend the night in a hotel room. He couldn't even remember what it felt like to sleep in an actual bed, or to not be cold. But Sasuke knew he couldn't risk it. Being close to Kakashi was dangerous and too much temptation. He already could feel himself wanting to go away with Kakashi back to Konoha. He already wanted to tell him more about who he was, see if he had any answers for him. But he couldn't, because then he would be risking his brother's life as well as his own. He had to be strong, even if his brother told him he was allowed to trust Kakashi, that was nine years ago there was no telling if his brother would be saying the same thing now.
"I can't."
Kakashi gave a nod of understanding, he was really hoping he could have convinced Sasuke to go back to the hotel with him. He would have had more time with him and maybe been able to get something out of him. Sasuke was holding firm though and Kakashi didn't know him anywhere near enough to tell if Sasuke was the stubborn type or not.
"Ok, if you change your mind, I'll be at the hotel in room twenty-three."
Kakashi wanted to stay, but he knew he couldn't. He had given Sasuke the options and it was up to him to change his mind or not. Sasuke gave a nod and Kakashi stood up and headed back out into the growing storm. He hated that he had to leave Sasuke here. That hatred though, it confused Kakashi because he shouldn't have those feelings towards someone he just met. Yes, Sasuke was sixteen and clearly had a hard life, but that shouldn't make him feel like he was abandoning Sasuke to this cave. Kakashi also didn't understand how he apparently knew Sasuke's brother. Not only knew him, but had made some type of impression on him that he told Sasuke he was the only one that he could trust. All of this was confusing him even more and he had no idea what he should be doing about any of this. He needed some time to think, some times to get his head cleared and his emotions back in check.
XXX
It was just after seven at night when Kakashi found himself trudging through the storm to go back to Sasuke's cave. The weather had gotten so bad he couldn't stop thinking about Sasuke. It was colder than expected, there was more snow coming down and it was not a situation that someone should be out in. He didn't care what Sasuke had to say, he was coming back to the hotel to ride out this storm. He couldn't change that Sasuke wouldn't come back to Konoha with him for a better life, but he could make sure he was going to be safe while he was in town.
When Kakashi arrived at the cave the first thing he noticed was that the fire was out. A search of the cave told him that Sasuke wasn't here and that worry in the pit of his stomach got worse. He summoned Shiba once again.
"Damn it's cold." Shiba instantly said.
"I'm sorry, I need you to find Sasuke. He's not here and I'm worried he's out in this storm."
If Sasuke was out in this storm there was no telling what could happen to him. Shiba was quickly able to find Sasuke's scent from the bedroll and started to track him. Kakashi was worried with the storm that Shiba would have too hard of a time keeping track of Sasuke's scent, but after twenty minutes they were finally in Sasuke's area. Kakashi felt his stomach drop even more as he passed ANBU laying in the snow. They were from the Earth territory and he knew they were hunting Sasuke.
"This isn't good Boss." Shiba said, as he guided them to Sasuke.
"I know, I see thirty of them. Are we close?"
Thirty ANBU for one teenager, it was insane, even more so was the fact that Sasuke was able to beat them. He was just hoping Sasuke hadn't been captured or killed. Shiba took off at a run and Kakashi knew he had spotted Sasuke. Kakashi ran after Shiba and once he got closer he was able to see Sasuke in the snow. He was faced down and there was red tinted snow around him. There was only a dusting of snow on his body, but that didn't change how cold it was out and his body would only have gotten colder with him laying in the snow. Kakashi turned Sasuke over gently and felt for a pulse. He let out a sigh of relief when he felt one, but he knew Sasuke was very cold. He had to get him back to the hotel to get him warmed up and check him over for injuries.
"Thank-you Shiba. I can find my way back."
"Copy Boss."
Kakashi released the jutsu and he picked Sasuke up bridal style and began to make a run back to the hotel. He had to be careful that he didn't lose his way out of the forest. The very last thing either of them needed was getting lost in this storm. Kakashi guided his way through the forest and snow as quickly as possible and he was relieved when he was back on the small village streets. After a short run he was back at his hotel room and into the warmth. Kakashi placed Sasuke down on the bed and immediately went over and turned the heat up in the room. With that done he went back over to Sasuke and started to remove his coat so he could see his injuries. With the coat gone Kakashi was able to see that Sasuke was thinner than he thought. Very carefully he removed Sasuke's shirt and he could see the outline of Sasuke's ribs. Kakashi wanted nothing more than to feed him, to get him healthy again. Kakashi forced himself to focus on Sasuke's injuries. He could see that a couple of his ribs looked broken, and he could also see bruising making its way over his torso. The source of the bleeding was coming from a long cut along his right side. It was deep and it would need to be stitched closed to prevent Sasuke from losing too much blood.
Kakashi grabbed his medical kit that he carried around with him while on mission. He had learned long ago that anything could happen when you were on a mission and you might not be able to get help. Kakashi grabbed the suture kit that he had and began to make quick work of stitching the long cut closed. He was worried when Sasuke didn't wake up for any of it, but with how cold his body was it wasn't too surprising. Kakashi checked over the rest of Sasuke's body once the cut was stitched. He would have loved to remove the mask and actually put a face to the name, but he knew he couldn't risk breaking the small amount of trust that Sasuke had in him. Sasuke mostly had bruising and a few broken ribs, there was nothing Kakashi could do besides get Sasuke warm. His injuries would have to heal on their own with time. With his injuries taken care of Kakashi then had to focus on getting Sasuke warmed up. He knew the best way to get Sasuke warm was through body heat, but he wasn't sure how well Sasuke would appreciate it.
Kakashi let out a sigh, accepting what would need to happen. Kakashi started by removing Sasuke of his sword and then the rest of his clothing, leaving the mask on. Kakashi then stripped himself of his own clothing before he got into bed. He pulled the covers over both of them and then pulled Sasuke into him so Sasuke's chest was against his own. Kakashi took in a shaky breath at how cold Sasuke was, but he knew shortly he would be warming up. Kakashi also had to ignore how both of their hips lined up perfectly, putting their own soft dicks against each other. Kakashi was a grown healthy male, he loved the attention of both females and males and his dick didn't have much of a brain outside of something touching it. The last thing they needed, especially Sasuke, was waking up to feeling someone hard against him. Kakashi forced his mind to think about anything unsexy so he could focus on getting Sasuke warmed up and back to a safe level. One thing was for certain, it was going to be a long night.