The Legend of A Master
DISCLAIMER – I DO NOT OWN POKEMON OR NARUTO, THEY BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS.
Chapter 6 - Family comes first
A burst of black flames had the Clan heads all jump away in unison. Tsume stuck around a little longer to realize the fire was actually cold to the touch... like it wasn't real. From the middle, out stepped a solitary figure. His gear screamed shinobi and he had a Hitai-Ate tied to his bicep. He raised a hand calmly in a small wave.
"Yo"
The children could merely look on in awe. Murmurs broke out in the audience over how young this person looked to be a clan head. If they only knew how young the boy actually was.
"I am the new Uchiha clan head, My name is Sasuke Uchiha. It was nice meeting you all" he nodded.
"I hope you all do very well and graduate as fine and talented ninja" and with the flick of a wrist, dispersed, this time in a lightning shunshin. And the chattering continued at the display once more.
FIRST PERIOD
Children started to swarm into the classrooms naturally gravitating to their peers. Groups were already forming, as children took their seats. Naruto and Hinata claimed a back row for themselves and settled there content to just enjoy each other's company. Naruto pulled out a book from his pouch as Hinata did the same. With a nod, they both exchanged them and began to read.
"Hello there children, My name is Iruka Umino and I'm going to be your teacher for this year" the instructor smiled up at the students. His eyes roamed over the fresh faces. With a start, he noticed Naruto at the back...Reading. Iruka was shocked. He could still recall the prankster attitude the boy used to have and how he had seen the boy run away from many mobs in the past. When he was informed Naruto would be in his class, he had expected a loud rambunctious boy who defied authority, and a source of headaches, but no. Naruto was really being quiet and just reading.
His eyes moved left to see the Hyuuga heiress.
"...The Hyuuga heiress and the boy are close?"
Further observations confirmed that various prominent clan heirs were present in his class.
"This is going to be an interesting bunch for sure"
LUNCH BREAK
The blond Jinchuuriki and Hyuuga heiress made their way out of the building. Settling down under a shady tree, it wasn't long until a third figure joined them.
"So what have you been doing so far?" Sasuke asked as they lazed around.
"We're doing Shinobi history!" Naruto said excitedly as Sasuke laughed. The old Naruto would never have been interested in things like this but he guessed that hearing about exciting missions and amazing ninja was more than enough to stoke his enthusiasm.
As they continued to talk amongst themselves, the senior academy students started coming out for their break as well. Hinata's cousin, Neji and Neji's classmate, TenTen seemed to have agreed to a spar of some sort.
All three of them watched as they moved fluidly.
"The girl seems well versed in weaponry, she will make a fine weapon's mistress" the last Uchiha commented softly, Naruto and Hinata nodding in agreement. Naruto thought about approaching the older girl to work on Kenjutsu with him.
"Well, for now, I'm taking off. Be safe" and in a gust of wind, Sasuke was gone.
A Year Later (9th April, X101) -
OAK'S LABORATORY
Samuel Oak had led a full, exciting life. But the excitement of these few years really rivalled the old days. Finding out that Arion was Red and Yellow's child had been shocking and the aged man had sworn to keep his secret safe. The boy was a wonder all on his own though. He worked part-time as the Professor's aide as well as a paid researcher himself. His thesis were brilliant and Arion let him publish them under the older man's name. What he didn't know is that the Professor actually published all the papers under an alias. He was reluctant at first but then realized the connections he could make and use in the future.
Researchers and professors all over the world were stunned at the perspective put into the papers and often at conferences asked the respected Professor about the mysterious researcher who they only knew the name of. The Professor simply smiled enigmatically and changed the subject every time.
They were eager to meet the mystery man, to discuss new theories based on his original work, but Arion refused the requests. Sure at times that made him come off as a little arrogant and a bit of an ass, but he didn't mind. His top priority was living his life as safely as possible and keeping the others around him safe as well. He couldn't risk losing any more family and dear people getting hurt because of him didn't sit well with him.
The old man and the young boy were close now. Arion would take care of and play with his great-granddaughter all the time. Leaf also, in particular, liked spending time with Arion. They did lots of things together, whether it be play tag, him playing the piano for her or offering and eventually teaching her how to play the guitar.
The old man saw knew that Arion had a soft spot in his heart for the young girl. His eyes were always a shade happier when he spent time with her. Leaf herself was a bright, bubbly and happy child, but she was a lonely one as well and that was partly the aged Professors fault. Both of her parents were original dexholders, he still sent Blue to collect data for him sometimes and Green being a gym leader was self-explanatory. So Leaf spent most of her time alone or with a babysitter.
Arion fixed that problem. He would take care of the younger girl, going over for sleepovers or he would take up the Blue's assignment himself. That way, Leaf had more time to spend with her mother.
He peered out of his window to watch the boy feeding a new trainer's Gyarados. It was crazy but the Gyarados actually liked Arion more than he liked his own trainer if the nuzzling of his head and the willingness to take food from the ravenette was any indication that he would use. Gyarados, in particular, were so hostile that there were several incidents of them attacking their own trainers, yet with charisma like no other Arion had a way with all of them.
"Maybe I should put in that special request now"
16th April, X101
DAWN BREAK, 3.45 AM
Kirito was tired, dirty, hungry and Oh did he mention he's exhausted. He trudged along the familiar path to Pallet town. The mission itself was fine but... he still hadn't found one.
"Tadaima"
"Okairi" his nephew greeted him.
"How was your mission, a protection detail right? It took you all the way to Snowpoint in Sinnoh" he asked quietly.
"It was a success"
"So did you find the perfect one?" Kirito groaned, his nephew was teasing him.
"No, I didn't! Nothing was good enough!" The older man pulled off his boots with more force than necessary as his nephew knelt next to him.
"How about this one?" as he pulled out a small box to show his uncle a glittering ring.
Kirito just stared.
It was perfect, it really was. The single set diamond glittered in the dull light set in a delicate rose gold band. It was simple and understated in just the right way that he knew Asuna would like it and wear it often.
"It's beautiful," he said as he took the ring from the boy. His orbs met red eyes.
"Do you think she'll like it?" Arion rolled his eyes.
"As long as it's from you, I'm sure she'd be thrilled."
Kirito just smiled at that. He was one lucky guy.
"So you start out today right?" his uncle asked as he closed the small box with a snap. Arion nodded as he gestured to the full travel pack near the door. Kirito raised an eyebrow.
"You realize that some shinobi are less packed than that right? And they go on missions"
Arion frowned at that.
"It's... better to be prepared" as silence enveloped the two of them.
3 HOURS LATER
He was dressed and all ready to go. 4 Pokeballs hung on his belt carefully hidden from view. He had thought long and hard about what his attire should consist of.
Kanto wasn't particularly diverse in climate so plain breathable materials were ideal. The nights were suspiciously cold though, so a jacket for sure. The region's terrain had a fair amount of forests and mountains, so hiking boots for sure with maybe a backup pair of sneakers or running shoes. Gloves might also be good if he had any climbing to do. His uncle had told him of the merits of not carrying a full travel pack since it attracted unsavoury attention from more observant people.
In the end, he had settled for a shinobi mesh shirt over which he wore a black undershirt. Tan coloured form-fitting cargo pants secured with a dark belt, gave him a good amount of storage as well as protection. It helped that he had a weapons pouch attached to the belt. He had then picked out a fitted dark blue long-sleeved jacket and black fingerless gloves, finished off with dark hiking boots. His ever-present pendant still hung safely around his neck.
His uncle had presented him with a black and silver sling pack. It had plenty of nifty pouches for storage scrolls as well as enough space for essentials like an extra blanket, first aid kit and ration bars. It would get the job done and wasn't too suspicious.
He was ready for anything that came his way.
AT OAK'S LABORATORY
GARY! GARY! HE'S OUR MAN! IF HE CAN'T BEAT 'EM NO ONE CAN!
Arion rubbed his temples as an oncoming headache made itself clear to him.
"Thank you all citizens of Pallet, I will now go to receive my starter" the telltale, trademarked arrogant voice of Gary Oak rang out in the streets. There were two others, Ash was suspiciously absent.
"Yeah I got the best one!" was Gary's arrogant smirk and with gusto returned his starter back to its Pokeball.
"Professor Oak" Arion asked in a steady voice.
"I was called in today".
Professor turned his head to see the youngest child of the lot. Giving a slight nod he motioned for him to stand aside and wait for everyone else to leave. When they had and it was finally quiet. Professor Oak came over to Arion.
"I had a special request for you," as the Professor walked deeper into the lab. He reached into an incubator to retrieve a special Pokeball.
"Open it" was his simple command and he did, it opened to reveal...
...
...
...
...
An empty Pokeball.
The suspense that Professor Oak was trying to build up was shattered as professor Oak fell on the ground anime style.
"Where did he go" the Professor frantically started looking as Arion's eyes caught a silver blur. He gently lowered himself to the floor to watch bright eyes stare back at him.
"C'mon little guy, no need to be afraid" the poor thing was clearly terrified, shivering wildly under the shelf. Arion plopped himself on the floor gesturing for the small creature to come to him.
"I won't hurt you" as he held a Pokeblock out to him. Curious eyes looked at the new face as ears stood upright. The fox-like creature reluctantly came out of his hiding spot to nibble on the offered treat.
"Veee..."
Arion reached out and scratched gently between the fox's ears. The vulpine let out a purr of delight.
Nuzzling into the offered hand he found a certain comfort as well as warmth and was drawn to this human. For the first time in his life, he felt safe.
Professor Oak smiled at both of them. This pokemon was willingly nuzzling into Arion's palm but wouldn't open up to him in the week he had been here. Arion truly was the best choice for him.
"So, is he my request?" motioning to the silver Eevee sitting comfortably on his shoulder. Professor Oak nodded.
"I have to warn you though Arion. His genetic makeup is even more unstable than a normal Eevee's, my guess is that something was done to the embryo before the egg was fertilized and laid to produce a pokemon of all genetic natural natures"
Arion frowned as he softly stroked his new partner's fur. This was a case of Vee all over again. He brought the silver fox close to him and touched foreheads.
"I'll never let anyone hurt you again, I promise." The Eevee smiled as he licked Arion's face in affection. Professor Oak smiled again, his instincts had guided him well.
"Take these with you" handing the new trainer a pure black Pokedex and 5 Pokeballs.
"Thank you" and with a bow and some goodbyes, he left the lab walking on the familiar dirt path that laid ahead.
"Arionnnn" the boy turned to see Leaf running up to him. He immediately turned to give the girl his attention.
"Leaf"
"A-Are you going now?" her eye fogged with tears. The boy was quick to hug the girl as she nuzzled into his shoulder. Eon looked at his new trainer and descended from his perch to watch from the ground.
"Yeah Lee, my own adventure"
"...I'll miss you" her voice was so soft, Arion doubted someone who wasn't a shinobi could hear her.
"I'll miss you too, but I'll call you often. You won't even notice I'm gone" Leaf looked up at the taller boy her lip wobbling dangerously.
"Well, in that case, it's good we got you this" Leaf and Arion were greeted by two new voice.
"Mama, Papa!"
"Aunt Blue and Uncle Green"
The dexholders made their way to the boy. Blue giving him a tight hug and ruffling his hair. Green nodding at him and squeezing his shoulder.
"Here, a parting present" as they handed him a neatly wrapped box. Arion blinked as a black PokeGear with silver detail was left in his hand.
"...I can't accept this" as Green rolled his eyes.
"You can and you will. In return, Leaf will be able to call you anywhere" Arion raised an eyebrow at that.
"Anywhere is a stretch, anywhere with signal maybe" Blue grinned at that.
"That would only be true if Emerald hadn't put in a few extra things" Arion's eyes widened as his mouth wanted to protest. Dual glares kept him quiet.
"...Thank you so much, I'll miss you guys."
They all smiled again as Leaf cheerfully hugged her friend.
"We'll miss you too!"
And with that, the journey began.
"Quick attack"
The youngster fell down in disbelief...
"So strong..." The trainer and his Silver Eevee seemed to give off a feral grin turned on his heel.
As Arion made his way into town and into the Pokemon centre he heard familiar chanting.
"GARY! GARY! HE'S OUR MAN! IF HE CAN'T BEAT 'EM NO ONE CAN!"
He felt the migraine return.
"Girls please, we can continue when we're back on the road after I beat all the chumps around here."
Returning Eon to his Pokeball, he walked up to Nurse Joy.
"Excuse me I would like a room for the night please."
Nurse Joy immediately snapped back into concentration and flashing Arion a pleasant smile nodded and tapped a few keys on her keyboard. Nodding in satisfaction, she handed him a pair of keys.
"Your room number is 207, please enjoy your stay" and with another smile walked over to the other side of the counter to tend to another trainer and her injured Rattata.
Arion shoved his hands into his pockets and started walking towards his room.
"Hey, Arion!"
Ignoring him, he continued at a brisk pace.
"Hey! Speak when I'm talking to you!" Gary blew his top off far sooner than he had expected. He still kept the same impassive expression on his face.
"What is it Oak? What do you want?" his eyes never strayed, the cutting red colour made Gary flinch.
"So how many Pokemon have you caught? I have a full set" Gary boasted proudly.
The quiet boy pulled back his jacket revealing five Pokeballs clipped to his belt.
"Haha, I have more than you!" Gary called out far too smugly.
"And I'm okay with that" Arion said equally calmly.
"That's it you and me right now at battleground 3" and proceeded to try to drag him there by force, the keyword being try.
Arion dodged his swipe and Gary ended up flat on his face. He proceeded to walk there himself thinking this would be a good time to test some of the strength of his attacks.
He looked behind himself and called out...
"Do you plan on lying there the entire day or are you coming too?" and with a wave of his hand continued on his own merry way.
AT BATTLEGROUND 3
"So a 5 on 5 match till one person has no pokemon remaining, sound good?" Gary said eyeing the now exposed Pokeballs on his belt.
Arion simply nodded.
"Begin"
Gary started out throwing a Pokeball which produced a Pidgey.
"Come forth for battle"
3 MINUTES LATER
"NO! Squirtle!" Gary ran forward to catch his fallen starter.
"NO! GARY LOST!"
He had had enough, returning Eon, he walked out on top of the roof of the Pokemon Centre and that was when he saw him...
Ho-oh...
The legend of the Jhoto region before his eyes fluttering majestically. As he soared through the sky a feather fell onto his outstretched hand. A rainbow feather, his blessing he supposed. Twirling the beautiful feather between his fingers he closed his eyes and heard the message embedded within it...
"Help the chosen one on his quests, he will need it"
Signing Off,
The Aura Phoenix.