I do not own Naruto but Naruto is better than Naruto Shippuden

A strange merchant stationed inside the village a couple of days ago, people seem to adore him. He is fair and warm to everyone, even offering some foreign candy to some of the children that came around. The man looked to be around his mid-thirties, and although I don't want to admit it...he has some suggestive tendencies? Almost like any other pervert, he spied on the women's section of the bathhouse before getting spotted and chased around. Something odd I noticed about the man is the pack he carries around, it was fairly huge and with the amount of stuff, he was selling it wasn't getting smaller. The days I found myself watching him I mapped his route around the village, every day he found a way in front of the student academy. His expression would change upon the sight of the place, a day or so ago I put a sign in front of the path he was taking, and out of the blue he redirected himself despite being here for a couple of days he knew his way around.

Masuo closed the book he wrote in, his fingers placing the writing utensil inside. Sharp light-brown eyes watched as the merchant went inside the bathhouse for the sixth time today. "Geez, even I know when enough is enough." Picking himself up from the roof, the growing boy let a yawn out. The school was in session and despite knowing he should be there, he couldn't let such a character go unnoticed. This village was full of fascinating individuals, some more vibrant than others. Placing his book in its holder around his waist he found himself leaving the roof. His little information guide was something he began working on as soon as he figured out how to think, it included info on his classmates at least most of the pages did nowadays. Some pages had the social standings of someone, and others had the short kinks they did without noticing themselves. For example, he caught Sasuke looking at Hotaru from time to time. Confronting the moody preteen only resulted in a bunch of excuses and being called out of his name.

Finding a spot on a different roof and scanning the area, he didn't notice anything special. He attempted to pry into a Jonin's life before, but he opted to wait until he honed his skills after the scolding he received. There was only a handful of people near his age he couldn't quite figure out, well at least more than the others. Masuo had a list ranking each of his peers from hardest to easiest, and out of that list was a record of classmates that he knew he had to be wary of when trying to get something. Hearing his name being called, his gaze set on the blonde brat. Naruto was someone he did everything he could to get a variety of reactions, the kid started calling him a weirdo down the line and it didn't bother him much; still being cursed with speaking to him daily was bothersome. Being a good samaritan, he jumped down landing in front of the orange jumpsuit child.

"Pardon? You were overly loud which somehow made me miss what you said." His sentence made no sense, it didn't matter Naruto took it however he wanted and refreshed Masuo's ears.

"Why aren't you in class? Also, do you know where this merchant is? I heard he was selling foreign items, and I want to see if he has ramen in stock!" Naruto's smile radiated enough warmth to make the violet-haired preteen submit.

After explaining to his classmate where the person of interest could be found he was left alone to his thoughts again, Naruto was an open book; someone that could be tricked by a stick given if it spoke.

Not letting the mood ruin he made way to the nearby park.

Kei dragged himself through the dense forest, he lost track of how many days he's been out; it was the least of his problems. A couple of miles back he passed up a warm firepit, which meant he was on the right track; he knew that there was a survey point ahead which tended to anyone who could pay. Being stationed deep in the wilderness was strange but beneficial in a way. 'Fukō would no doubt be one to live far off anyway from civilization.'

Noticing the neighboring tracks in the soil path the mask-wearing ninja counted the number of prints, counting an even number of footprints he sighed; in total there were five people, possibly six if someone was being carried. Coming up to the sign that alerted travelers of the resting Inn, Kei let a sigh out again. He wasn't discriminating against anyone, but foreigners were bad news; especially when the occupation they opted for was mercenary. Pushing past the sign, Kei took a couple of steps before stopping at the wooden stairs leading up to an open Inn.

It was quiet, even if there were limited people around some hint of noise should spread out. Walking up the steps, he pushed the flaps of cloth to the side; the light from outside illuminating the dining area. It was a mess. Sake stained the wooden wall, and many chairs and tables were broken. Boots hit the wood and a creak echoed out, glass shattered across the ground the source coming from a picture frame. Lips tugging into a warm smile, he recollected the memories before coming to Konoha. His ears twitched as the sound of footsteps alerted him, some falling from the floor above, a scream spat out loud enough to shake the cup of sake resting on the counter.

There were around five people but he heard only two pairs of footsteps, all signs were pointing to a trap. Making his way up the stairs, the male kept his instincts. Upon reaching the second floor, he took note of the door at the end of the hall being open; granted his eyesight wasn't the best he smelled the scent of flowers. Taking a step forward, the closest door shot open; a short foreigner stepping out. His tongue was wrapped around a knife, but the most notable feature was the skull tattoo on his forehead.

"Looks like I caught me a rat." His accent was a dead giveaway, it was one of the people he was hunting for but how did he speak with his tongue around the weapon? The short mercenary stared into the mask, a smile running onto him. "Do you scream well like the rest? Erm, sorry where are my manners! I am-" His speech ended there, the door he opened being split in half; blood spitting against Kei's uniform. Blade in hand, the male tilted his head as the body split in half. The sound of the door and body dropping caught the attention of the rest of the mercenaries. Two more stepped out of the other rooms, one sporting a sleepy expression while the other had nothing to offer.

"I killed one of your comrades...are you going to come at me or stand there dumbfounded?" Kei didn't take back his words as the two charged, ducking underneath the high kick he bought his hand out parrying the fist that came towards him. It was a narrow hallway, he'd have to end things quickly or they would catch him. Rolling back he stood only to bob his head to the side, the attack was fast but not good enough. Stepping back once more, his heels reached the end of the stairs; both of them were charging at him. A fist came towards Kei at max speed, using his blade the metal stopped the poor chaps fist; blood being drawn as it stuck inside his knuckle.

The masked leaf ninja took a kick to the face. "GOT EM BROTHER!" His loud voice was soon hushed as a hand wrapped around his neck, watching his brother get choked the other mercenary took the blade out of his hand, raising the blade he bought it down in an act of distress. Blood splattered against the wall, Kei dropped the body before watching the remaining man's face change from fear to sorrow. "You killed him ya know? I used his body as a shield and you used the blade to cut his head."

Wrapped up in his remarks he failed to notice the fourth killer rushing up the stairs, glass shattered against the back of his head. Liquid mixing into his hair as droplets ran down his neck, there were three remaining. Back kicking the loser behind him, his foot pushed the killer's windpipe out of place, straightening out himself, Kei cracked his neck and glared at the one remaining in front of him. He ended off the one that remained in front of him without much fight.

The last guy stepped out of the door at the end of the hall, a scowl written on his face as he adjusted his pants. "Looks like you took out my half-ass squad, they lasted longer than missy back here...poor husband died before he could see what I did to his wife."

Kei took note of his texture, he was bald and big...size wasn't a problem this guy was different from the rest anyone could tell by a glance. "You had your fun...now it's time for me to send you to hell." Kicking off from his spot, the leaf ninja struck the giant's abdomen the force pushing him against the wall.

Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Bird: Wind release: Dangan (Air Bullet)

His hands gracefully danced with each other as his cheeks puffed, landing on his feet he released a compressed bullet of air; the giant bought his arms together taking the jutsu head-on, the impact forced him and the wall to break both falling outside. The giant hole through the wall allowed light in the room, Kei took a split second to register the female barely hanging on to the bolted-down counter. She was in the picture earlier, her smile now replaced with a busted lip and tear-stained cheeks. The clothes she had on were mere rags, feeling sympathy for the woman the young adult took off his mask tossing it to her. "Your kids should be around here somewhere, put the mask on to hide your face..." He flinched as she broke down crying, the sound of a widow sobbing as if she lost everything dear to her. Taking off the pouch of money he kept he watched as it hit the floor, kicking it near her he found himself exhaling. "I'm sorry, I'll make sure he regrets it all." In a split second, he was gone from the room. If he wasn't in a hurry to kill the man, he would've noticed the two dead bodies lying in the corner of the room.

Kei watched as the brute stood up dusting himself off, as he thought the jutsu didn't have must impact on him. "I'll make this fast." His distant voice spat like venom, blue eyes hardening on the bald mercenary. "You was tasked to kill someone out here, you succeeded but the person you killed was of use to us...which makes you an enemy...you see if I kill you now your boss will think you didn't get the job done and send more of you down here..." Kei sidestepped the heavy jab narrowly missing, "What you did to that family..." Pushing his body once more to the side, the brute missed yet another strike. "You're sick. But your actions obviously stem from a similar experience." His words were spot on, arm coming at a greater speed than before Kei stood still as the brute slammed.

Dust clouded the space, a deep laugh coming out. "Idiot! Don't ever doubt the great Kizemua!" The big male let out a loud roar as the dust cleared.

"No one told you to make such a sound." Standing on the older man's arm, Kei focused his chakra into his left foot. "I'll send you where your mother is bastard." The sounds of the widow came into his ears, the jutsu from before sapped half of his chakra. The dark-haired adult's leg shot like a bullet, boot coming into contact with the mercenary's face; cold blue eyes watched as his head came clean off, his spine still connected to his skull. Jumping in the air, he looked at the bright yellow star in the sky; the explosive tag he put on the brute's body going off.

The area was a mess, but it wasn't his problem. Going back to the widow, the adult watched as she kept her children in her arms; the never-ending tears pulling at his heartstrings. "Do you want to join them?" It was the only offering he could give, she didn't want the money but sure as hell wore his mask. No words were spoken, her lifeless gaze all he needed. His hand placed above her mouth, the life from her body coming to an end as he released the hold he had on her neck. When it was all said and done, she had a smile on her face; she was at peace. Being alone in this world was worse than anything, he'd never wish it on anyone especially his brother.

After a small search for the husband's body, the maskless ninja finished the building off in a blaze the fire spreading easily from the deadwood. "Mission complete." As the fire raged on, Kei was gone. On a tree, family craved into the bark.

His chakra was diminished, at best he could muster up an Academy jutsu. Wind washed over the area, leaves and bushes rustling nearby; after such an eventful day all he wanted to do was rest. Being a ninja was anything but rewarding.

Kirayari exited the school premises, her schedule was full; ever since this merchant came into town he's been pestering her parents about purchasing a handful of crop seeds again, he was bargaining a profitable price. Speaking of the devil, the old man was stationed right in front of the academy. 'I should thank him for the sale.' Growing closer she caught the distant look in his eyes, the pack he had bigger than before. His hands clasped against each other, time slowed for Kirayari as she turned to getaway. Her voice was loud enough to alert other students.

Jiei appeared in a flash his grip on the man's collar, he felt it before but didn't act as it could've been a fluke. Cursing himself, his input chakra into his arm lifting the man off the ground and tossing him into the air at his best ability. The bag began to explode engulfing the merchant, his bag was filled with explosive tags being in the air wasn't enough.

Jiei's hand flicked in a random direction.

Wind Release: Wind Dome

The wind shot in a stream towards the direction he pointed, the mass explosion shaking the area. Smoke harbored the sky, Jiei's jutsu pushing it around the village. It was in the heat of the moment. Turning he viewed the students that got to safety, as long as everyone was okay he'd take the punishment for damaged property. The ground shook as another explosion came from nearby, the smoke from that incident coming into the air shortly after. Before he could check he had to make sure the students were alright.

Across the village, the little home the merchant was staying at had exploded; nothing could be made out as the explosion bought out a fire. Many civilians were injured from the impact, it didn't take long for medical ninjas to fill the scene. Tending to some of the injured civilians, some working Jonin began to put out the fire.

Fukō sat on a roof watching the whole show, despite people helping, the injured were still making a fuss. "This village is clouded by pain and misery." Standing up, he yawned looking to the side. Masuo stood watching the whole escapade, he wasn't here a while ago.

"It's quite interesting how this turned out, I would've never thought the man was a terrorist." Obviously, it was more than that, no one would try this without a reason but hearing Fukō's statement earlier by luck he wanted to dot his reaction. Unfortunately, he didn't reply, it was quite annoying in hindsight wasn't it customary to reply to someone when they spoke to you. "I wonder what else he rigged to explode, I heard one near the Academy...yet this one was closer." Masuo turned to view his classmate, the look on his face as neutral as if he didn't care. "It would've been a shame if your brother was inside."

Fukō didn't do much to hide the smirk that came to play, "It's unlikely he'd be involved in it, but your parents were." Viewing the display once more the white-haired child rolled his eyes, "The man was being watched and your parents went in not long ago to gather some sort of information, I didn't see them come out." On cue, someone yelled out they found two bodies, which forced Masuo to close his book.

Short violet hair blew with the wind, his wide face and pointy chin turning to take in the bodies of the deceased. He didn't believe his peer in the slightest, but doubt was crucial in his mind at the moment. There were many holes in his story, so why did his heart stop when they announced the two dead bodies? Thin lips sucked in, the sun helping Masuo's pale skin. "Nice try, but I won't fall for such tricks I could tell you were lying from the tone you adopted."

"Now, you're lying to yourself. They won't be able to make out the bodies immediately plus it doesn't matter if you chose to believe me or not, I suggest you take your notebook and check on your parents though...it could be your last moment to see them." Masuo gulped, he was being lured and directed down that path, the words making him think otherwise. Fukō was interesting, whenever they spoke it was something spectacular. Masuo attempted to spy on the male once, sadly he didn't give him much credit and lost him in seconds. Jumping from the roof, the weird child left Fukō alone.

"My classmates are capital w weird."

Kirayari sat at the table processing everything. After the explosion, she was ushered back home by Iruka, and before entering her family showered her in love and worry asking if she was okay. Olive green eyes half lid counted the callouses that entertained her dainty hands, all the farm work really caught up with her over the years. Ear's twitching she couldn't help but overhear her parent's conversation. They were bickering about trivia things, her father Nōgyō Kirazomi kept speaking about the extra Ryō they received upon the purchase; while her mother Kuwa Kirazomi was more so leaning towards her safety. It was odd the more she thought about it, why would some traveler buy so many crop seeds? Glancing out of a window she noticed the clouds rolling in, it seemed the smoke called for mother nature.

Finding herself out of the chair, she stood at the full body mirror. Hands coming back to tie her dark purple locks into a ponytail, she found herself sighing as her hair dangled around her shoulders from her bad attempt at a ponytail. Before the droplets of water could bless the lands, she should plant some more crops.

It didn't take long for her to start working.

Kuwa Kirazomi watched her daughter through the open window, the strays of wind getting harsher and harsher. Despite, the mutual arrangement she was still against her daughter becoming a ninja. It wasn't in the clan customs, and the thought of her pride and joy not coming back to the compound one day only made for more uncertainties. Kuwa recalled her daughter's small smile when she saw her first successful yield, how determined she was at completing the task. Her dark purple hair laid flat on her neck, her own olive-colored pools dancing onto her husband that accompanied Kirayari.

Kuwa never outright said it, but she knew Nōgyō wasn't as against Kirayari's choice. He wanted her to be happy, but safety came before happiness. Often times when the work was lessened or done, Kuwa did research on the topic of ninjas and what she should expect. Surprisingly, a specific book helped parents understand why their children wanted to be aspiring shinobi. Needless to say, it didn't help.

Rain poured from the sky as the father-daughter combo kept working, even if they weren't as prosperous as other clans' the love they had for each other was enough. Hearing her son call for her, the mother of two went to tend to the brat.

The dry dirt was now moist making it easier to clump together, using a hand spade Kirayari stuck some more seeds inside the earth. "I was thinking of finding some low-rank jutsu you can learn...the cost isn't the problem but I want you to have a head start against your companions." Nōgyō watched his daughter move around the dirt, her habit was still strong she always overdid the process of building a home for the seed. "I hope it fits your fighting style." At first, the father was against her attending the academy but after seeing her commitment all he wanted was for her to be the best, part of him wanted her to stop before it got dangerous but it didn't take much to bury those thoughts.

Grateful for her parents the growing girl didn't say much as her father spoke, the steps in acquiring a low-rank jutsu were costly but it made her happy. Shaking her head, she turned to the wooden su yari it wasn't long ago she was sneaking off to learn to be a kunoichi, now her parents were open to it. Messy bangs stuck to her forehead, her clothing drenched from the shower. Finding herself taller than before, she looked down to see her dad picking her up a soft giggle emitting as they went on inside.

xXx

'Fifty...fifty-one...fifty-two...fifty-three.' Diamond push-ups were physical torture during the beginning, muscles felt as if they'll explode after a brief set. Now she could finish half of a hundred. Sweat globules ran down her medium tanned skin, her rigid breathing expressing how exhausted she was. Her look didn't match how she was, it was a form of catfishing. Petite and slim with a heart-shaped face and thin eyebrows, she was a powerhouse. When people looked at her, they thought she was a pushover, but it was the opposite in hindsight. Whenever she didn't have her wavy dark brown hair in its pigtails the thick locks reached the end of her back if not a tad shorter.

Standing up after finishing up her workout, it dawned on the growing girl that it would be yet another day of no business. Rumors were a dangerous thing in the village, one bad omen could result in years of shunning and bad luck. It irked her beyond belief, how some minor history and rumors can destroy someone's standing.

The Ishigo clan was small, only consisting of fifteen or fewer people, but each member was kind to neighboring clans despite how they were treated. Moving to the sink, she ran the cool water and used the time to splash it on her face. Being strong was something she was good at, but when teams came into fruition would that be enough to solidify her place? Fingers wrapping around the counter, her grip tightened. There were a number of reasons why she wanted to be a ninja, and one of the main ones was to make people think of the Ishigo clan differently. Thunder echoed outside, and if that didn't shock the lost girl the new source of heat that covered her eyesight did.

"What are you thinking about honey?" Ami Ishigo covered her daughter's eyes catching her own blood in a trance was rare, sometimes she thought her love lacked the ability to think thoroughly. Removing her hands, the older woman side bumped Aju before turning the water off.

"Nothing." It was a lie, and as a result, her cheek got pinched a mouthful of pleads coming from the younger girl. After a bit of nagging and an icepack being placed on her cheek, the young girl looked towards her mother. "I promise when I become a famous kunoichi I will bring honor, lots of customers, and money to the table!" The bright girl couldn't stop the warm smile.

Ami held back the tears that wanted to spill out, it wouldn't be an origin story without hardships. If they were given a different set of cards maybe the clan would be thriving? Maybe, her daughter wouldn't have to shoulder such a burden and her husband wouldn't work so hard? Exhaling she hugged what she bought into this world, "I know you will...I know you will." Closing her eyes the older woman took in her daughter's warmth, she smothered Aju's face in her dress so she wouldn't see the tears coming out.

Hotaru walked through the entrance of the compound, after the explosion, her grandfather rushed over to greet her at a speed one could only think of achieving in the clan. It left a bittersweet taste in her senses. The act of kindness was something her elder brother did whenever she hurt herself, how he came running to her brightened her day. After a check-up on her status, he escorted her back, luckily for her, she was able to convince him to get some food from across town which left time for her to enter and lock her door from the senile old man.

The second her boot hit the clan's compound, she felt the ongoing stares of her fellow clanmates; one leg after the other she moved along. The large shirt she had wet from the ongoing shower, the cold weather bought upon a sniffle the wooden path, directing her to turn. Living alone was the highlight of her day in retrospect, no one truly bothered her in the clans for various reasons with the expectation of the Mitsukaze. Standing under the hanging roof of a building, she watched as the rain poured down puddles and small streams molding into existence.

Many members ran around the facepaint each sported washing away with the wetness. Bringing her hand up she rubbed her cheek, face paint never enlightened her, and at first many people gave her an earful for not embracing the tradition; just as time went they learned that she was an oddity compared to the rest of them. Stepping out into the rain, her above-average height put her around 152.4cm. Being out and about in the sun bought her hair back to its quality color, the light teal color hair popped in the light; the academy also tanned her skin back to its generous color. 'Seems school will be on hiatus for some time, without school I'll be allowed to stay in until training comes.' Her thoughts were smooth, her legs carrying her towards where she stayed.

Passing some of her cousins, she didn't make eye contact; there was no need. She could feel the consternation alone from the stares, their disdain for her keyed from Mitsukaze's closeness or at least she assumed so. Perhaps, they simply didn't like her and found her presence an annoyance? Not letting them get to her, she quickly found her way to her spot and entered her lovely home.

It was spotless, any sign of clutter was nonexistent. The only mess one could make out was the mountain of scrolls sprawled around her office table, before she could settle in and dry off the door was opened and an old voice caused her to sigh.

"I got the sweet barbeque, you wanted. The line for this was short since the rain makes the atmosphere perfect for family meals." The old man placed the bag on the table, before sitting on the floor pillow. "Ready to eat?"

Hotaru lazily looked at her grandfather, he was faster than expected. "Let me dry myself then we can eat." Being alone was something she was akin to, but this wasn't so bad eating alone was something her brother said she shouldn't do. "Food tastes better with friends and family." She didn't stop herself from remembering her brother's words. It was yet another bittersweet thought.

Hearing his granddaughter's words he couldn't help but take a crack at her, "How about you invite the two that dropped you off before if you think so?" It was enough for the old man to start laughing.

"No, unless you find out where they live." Her sarcasm was enough for the old man to stop and compose himself, he loved his grandchildren dearly.

xXx

Mia sat diligently at the table, her dress hugging her petite frame; one leg over another she silently prayed. When she made it home, food was already being prepared. Truthfully, she was prepared for the worse. Her mother had to take notice of the chattering that made way around the village, but here she was placing food on the table without a word?

Hitsumabushi was placed in front of the soon-to-be Kunoichi, the cut-up kabayaki on top of white rice with green onions sprinkled around the outside. Waiting for her mother to take a seat the two began to eat, one watching the other take the first bite. "Fabulous you're dining, after supper I will check every inch of your body for bruises." Her motherly tone sent a chill down the younger girl's spine, she let her guard down and look what happened. "Consume a ton love, and please don't forgo articulating about your day."

Mia placed some rice in her mouth, her heart beating against her chest. Her mother was persistent today, at least more than what she'd usually do. News must've reached her ears. Swallowing down a mouthful Mia pondered what to say to get out of her mother's grasp. Not finding any excuse, the aspiring Kunoichi batted her eyes at her mother. "I thought we had a silent agreement..." Her tone was low a hint of red dancing onto her face. The arrangement one spoke about was merely her own belief, they never had an in-depth talk about the work of a ninja but since nothing happened yet...and her mom not asking about the academy as much played one thought they made a pact...mentally.

"Love, having an abnormally low pitch isn't like you." Uyeda's gaze softened, she wasn't even acquitted to the ranks and trouble was already brewing. It only made her worry how things would act when she wasn't in the village walls, picking at her meal the older woman found her appetite diminishing.

"My day was good, I think I still have top marks in all subjects...plus Hinata sat next to me at lunch today." The subject change was purposeful, Mia noticed her mother's slight reactions, and knowing she couldn't have got out of an injury check she wanted to take the thought of today out of her mind. "It's coming down harder with each second, the flowers are having a field day."

"Indeed, I didn't have time to water them today...so I am glad it's raining." Regaining her senses, her eyes widened. "I forgot to water our prized possession!" Standing up, the caretaker quickly moved to the window. A healthy sitting Juliet Rose took in the sprinkles of water, it was a priceless flower that only grew in certain conditions. Uyeda always used metaphors when speaking about this particular flower, in her eyes, it was a figure of her love to her daughter.

Mia turned in her seat watching her mother hurry over to the window, the flower in name was special to both of them. It was something that both took extra care in, the seed was bought when she was in her mother's stomach. When she was born it finally sprouted and as she grew the flower blossomed, it was truly magnificent.

Life around the village was endless, civilians rushing home to cherish the stormy weather with family or others having a hot meal with comrades. Life in the village was always booming even after a freak accident.

Shinobu memorized the board in front of him, Shikamaru and him usually clashed in the arts of Shogi. All rounds were won by the Nara but it didn't mean Shinobu wasn't growing. Even now, this game unlike the rest was going differently than the previous ones. Picking up a piece the male started to move it around the board, "Don't put it there...or there...I guess you can try that spot." Shikamaru's voice was a sudden annoyance to the preteen, of course, he was only trying to help but it was a learning experience.

One move later the victor reined again, even with Shikamaru's pretext he manages to win. In a battle of intelligence who could the young Nara lose to? Pushing the board away from himself, Shinobu watched as Shikamaru set up the pieces again. Seiko was next up in the battle, the strange child was someone that was simply there. Shinobu had no intel on the male, he was reserved to the point where it was worse if not on par with Hinata. "Hey, how did you two come to hang out?"

Shikamaru turned to view the mask-wearing child dillydallying with a puddle, "It just happened. One day I was relaxing watching the clouds go by and without knowing my surroundings I accidentally invaded his...uh property? From that day I noticed he didn't make much sound which was enough to mark him down as cool in my book...way better than you." The remark got an eye roll out of the Asobiemu.

"Better than me in what aspect? I think I take the cake in everything." Boosting his ego the red-haired child moved over as Seiko came to play.

"Everything? You don't know how to shut up." Shikamaru nodded to the reserved boy, the young man bowing to Shinobu before taking a seat.

Throwing an arm around Seiko's shoulder, the Asobiemu brat narrowed on the placement of the board. "I think it's only fair if we double-team the lazy bum any disagreements? No? Alright." Not giving the two any room to protest, the match started with Seiko making the first move and Shikamaru copying. From time to time, the sidelined chatterbox would give advice to his partner. Maybe, if he wasn't head deep in the game he would've noticed the flinch that erupted from the close contact.

The match went on above twenty minutes before Shikamaru won and after the win the Nara found himself leaving to two in his own clan's compound to get some rest.

xXx

Steam left the tip of the kettle, the heat from the fire warming up the room. Night was upon the village, and the rain didn't let up if anything it was in a state of calm. The soft patter tapping against the thin layered walls. The only source of light in the cramped apartment dimmed, it wasn't enough to render his vision useless. Shirtless, the preteen watched the scars on his arms as if they would suddenly disappear. Hair tied up in a high ponytail, Kiyoshi leaned against the wall. This environment was nothing compared to what he'd endure when becoming a warrior. Closing his eyes, he let the little heat roll over his body.

Time was thinning before he would need to make his own source of income, he started before by helping the villagers with simple tasks but that wasn't cutting it. Once the team selection came, everything would change. Having no opinion on anyone in the class, Narukami did want a certain two to be stationed with him. Shikamaru was quiet and resourceful and Hotaru was the same, those two wouldn't cause any unforetold problems especially since they like getting to the point.

Eyelids carefully opened, the source of light a bare memory. Darkness surrounded him, the sound of water hitting the walls echoing around the room. Time stopped, the world around him silent; sitting above a large body of black water the preteen blinked. Ripples began to form, an arm shot from the water. It didn't faze him, another arm came out and before he knew it he was sinking.

It was like quicksand, instead of moving every time his heart pulsed he would sink deeper and the figure would emerge. Fear was a subconscious emotion he thought he long forgot, alas he was a mere child, and as he grew he knew they would come and go. Exhaling, his heart began to palpate. Nothing would save him, nothing could. A tear escaped from his eye, his vision becoming a blur as he sunk. The water was breathable, the cold sensation a permanent aspect while being under. Resisting was futile, this wasn't the first nor last time...lately he'd come to accept it.

Out of the blue, he was lifted up, it was a new edition. Coming out of the water he gasped for air as if he couldn't breathe. His heartbeat nonexistent, the male caught vibrant red pools staring down into his black hues a sense of familiarity running around his system. He opened his mouth but no words were said, his savior pushed him back into the water. Who knew someone's savior could be their demise.

The heat hit his face as his eyes opened once again, the kettle ringing out. Quickly finding something to wrap his hand in he moved the metal to a table, it was becoming progressively harder to contrast reality and dreams.

The rain was a blessing in disguise. People often hated the natural occurrence for responsible properties; unlike the mass, Fukō enjoyed the sound. It was therapeutic when it was raining he could relax in any condition despite the omen that goes around with the cloudy weather no one particularly thought about it persay. Sitting on the railing, a gust of wind ran past the area; white hair sticking to his forehead from the torrent. The normal messy hairstyle now straightened from the wetness. His hair stopped around his shoulders his messy bangs covering his silver eyes to a degree, nature turned and the winds started to fight thunder shot in the sky; dark clouds being enlightened from each boom.

Thunderstorms in Konohagakure after a terrorist attack it would make for a good newspaper header. He was bound to catch a cold, but who could sway in this marvelous weather? His brother didn't return yet, and he hasn't attended school since his departure. It was magical. The droplets of water stopped hitting his face, a warm body appearing from thin air. Silver eyes watched as someone held an umbrella over him, it was only a handful of people that would do this; taking in the height they had to be, the answer of who was the culprit lingered.

Danzō stood straight his eyes closed, it was out of his comfort zone multiple of his men surveyed around the domain. He was getting older, catching a cold could end him so why was he outside with this brat? "Your brother wouldn't want you putting yourself in harm's way yet." The two hardly had a conversation, whenever he came by the youngin was missing.

"You're here...so isn't harm around me?" The old man couldn't stop the laugh that came out, this kid really was something with his words.

"I'm the safest person you can be around when your brother isn't present." Perhaps, that was why he was here? Kei was currently attending a task of unknown variables, his younger brother was alone without knowing the dangers he could be in. "I am a man of my word when it comes to my men, I told your brother I would be here for you when he was gone so here I am." With Kei working for him, people would look for anything to catch one of his top dogs off-guard. "You know your brother talks about how great you are...a lot."

"If you are the safest person to be around...then I'm better off selling my soul." Ignoring the latter part of his sentence, Fukō found himself exhaling the previous peacefulness now exchanged for a wave of constant alert. He didn't trust the older man, everything he did came at a price, Even a simple greeting could be considered a ploy.

"You should learn to open up more, make connections with everyone and get some friends." Before Danzō could finish, the child turned around with a strange expression on his face.

"What's the point? I'll leave soon and destroy this horrid place in the proce-" The sound of wet skin being hit echoed into the air jots of water flying off of the preteens face, his hold on the railing was gone. He was falling, would he die from this height? A large hand gripped onto the boy's chest before tossing him back up, his body landing right next to the fallen umbrella.

It was a joke...he wouldn't dare try to destroy the village. The fact he was struck cause of his words pissed him off, no that wasn't what bought upon newfound anger. It was the mere fact this old ass man had the guts to hit him as if he was nothing. He was nothing but that wasn't the point. "Sorry old man...but I need to blow off some steam. Don't blame me if you lose a finger or two."

"Boy, I won't even have to move from this spot to kill you." Watching as white-haired ran straight, the old man held his ground.

Throwing a fist, the child wasn't surprised it was blocked. The one-sided battle only began.

Splashing was heard on top of the roof, the once clear liquid now mixed with blood. Strike after strike the old man blocked with his arm or hand, even when the kicks came in it was easy to counter. During the duration of the attacks, he threw in his own easily catching the preteen off guard. Shaking his hand from the red liquid, Danzō could only scoff at the hype regarding this child. "Let's stop here before I kill you."

Fukō's hearing was iffy, his vision hardly registered the movements of the bastard's lips. He lost count of how many times he'd been hit but it was exciting, it bought a thrill he didn't know he had. "Kill me? I'm barely getting started." He's been attacking out of his strengths, so changing that up should catch the old man off-guard. Muscles tensing the young man crouched his hands supporting his upper body as he fell forth. Water splashed as his feet kicked off, appearing on the side of the old man he threw an elbow only for it to be blocked and traded with a backhand, luckily his senses were on fire. Ducking under the attack, the male used his speed to move to the opposite side. The water beneath them splashing a barrage of random fists came out, the old man blocking each of them with ease.

Fukō jumped back onto the railing, he knew despite his efforts all he did was vain. Blood leaked from his head, outlining his eye before running down. "Block this." Jumping off the railing, his hands moved together.

Snake, Ram, Monkey, Boar, Horse, Tiger

Danzō watched his hands moved, 'This brat knows a C-rank jutsu?' The chakra behind that jutsu is too much for his age group, grinding his teeth together the older man watched wide-eyed as Fukō let loose.

Fire release: Middle finger.

The old man stood still as the preteen turned into a cloud of smoke, he was able to pull the wool on this old fool. Root operators appeared on the spot kneeling in the rain, "Sir! Y-your arm!" He didn't need one of his lackeys to speak to him about the state of his arm, it was only common sense it'd be bruised. 'His taijutsu needs work...but during the end he switched up, the speed of his attacks combined, ended up working in his favor.' Spitting on the ground, the old man turned to his lackeys.

"Don't put pressure on the child, but keep tabs on him...the path he's walking down will lead him to me one day..." Looking into the moon, the Root members lefts. "He has no emotional attachments to anyone but his brother, no other bonds or friendships. If I can change his view on everything then the baby cub will grow into a true beast." That didn't explain why he randomly hit the boy, everyone knew his devotion to the village was inhumane; he wanted to run this place set things right, the way the current Hokage ran things were horrible.

xXx

"I am a ninja of the great Konohagakure! Please state yourself before moving any further." Lavender glared into the darkness only for blue to stare back, Kei didn't need to be seen but he didn't have a mask present on him. If he did, he could weasel his way out of confrontation unluckily for him this weirdo followed him out of an Inn cause they caught a look at his vest. "I'll give you to the count of three before I pursue!"

"ONE."

"TWO." Kei exhaled it was only one option.

"THR-" Stepping out from the shadows, Kei stepped out wobbling.

"Sorry, miss I think I had too much to drink." He'd put on a drunk act to escape and if that didn't work, hand in his pocket he gripped the Kunai.

Adrenaline often comes in during unexpected actions especially when you are the one in danger, I think that justifies Fuko's actions. Also, I think I make moments seem sadder than they are.