Psychic King: *randomly talking out loud* God, I love my readers! They're
so clever and great!
Naruto: Clever about what?
Psychic King: Picking up the hints that I left them! Obviously! *sigh*
Sakura: Yeah, about that. I was reading this chapter 4 and. *in a dangerous tone* Why am I upset about loosing Naruto's affections? Hum? Care to enlighten me, Psychic King-sama? *twitching slightly*
Psychic King: Sakura, are you OK? Your eyebrow is. pulsating.
Naruto: *looking worried* Yeah, she gets like that whenever we talk about you, now.
Sakura: *muttering* turn Sasuke gay. making me jealous over Naruto. just look what she's done to poor Kakashi-sensei.
Psychic King and Naruto: *turn to watch Kakashi creep across screen, trailing after Tenmar, who is searching for Naruto* *both shrug*
Sakura: *Speaking out loud now* SO? Are you gonna explain why I'm jealous?
Psychic King: *holding hands up in a placating gesture* Ma, ma. It's not really jealousy, per say, it's more. loss. I've experienced it myself at times when a male friend would flirt with me and then, for whatever reason, (say he gets a girlfriend) suddenly stops doing it. It's not that I wanted that friend, per say, but more that I wanted his attention and his affections. It's very selfish, but also a very natural reaction. *looks at Sakura's still angry face* Uh. *turns and starts running*
Sakura: *Angry* HEY! You get back here! *takes off after Psychic King*
Tenamr: *finally looking up* Naruto-sama! There you are! *runs to Naruto* I've been looking EVERYWHERE for you.
Naruto: *backing away* Yeah, sure, guy. Whatever. *looks at Kakashi* who the hell's this guy?
Kakashi: *confused* you mean you DON'T know? Geez, we were hoping that you could tell US.
Naruto: *ignoring Tanmar* let's go ask the old hag!
Kakashi: *nods and starts to walk off with Naruto*
Tenmar: *To the audience* I guess now would be a good time to say that Psychic King-sama does not own Naruto-sama or any of his affiliates. *chasing after Naruto and Kakashi* Hey, don't just leave me alone here! This place is creepy!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Embrace of Solitude
Chapter 5
"So." The blonde stranger, Tenmar, settled into a seat at the ramen stand. "Tell me about this Naruto kid."
Iruka felt once again felt himself bristle. Who was this guy to call Naruto some random kid? "He's a lot more than 'this Naruto kid.'" Iruka replied, a small smile starting to form on his lips as he thought about Naruto. "He's. Loud, obnoxious, clumsy, a prankster to the very end, terrible at paying attention in class, and his big mouth has gotten him into more than one bad situation." Tenmar's face fell slightly, but Iruka didn't seem to notice and pushed on. "But he's got a heart of gold. He seems to know just what to say to lighten the mood when things get heavy, his clumsy 'accidents' occasionally seem to be more of an act and have served to help him get his way, he has a determination like none I've ever seen, an inner strength that. amazes me to this day, and his faith and love for this village even though they treat him like a monster. Everything it takes to be the best Hokage ever." The teacher trailed off, a fond smile shining on his face.
Throughout the last part of the conversation Tenmar's smile had returned. "How interesting." He leaned back into his chair. "It sounds like he's more than just a student to you."
"You obviously don't know him." Iruka replied. "Naruto is never 'just' an ANYTHING. You can't know him, I mean really know him, and not think of him as something completely special."
"What is he to you? 'Something completely special' means what in your terms?" The blonde signaled for another bowl of ramen.
"I guess I've taken the role of big brother, if I had to put a name on it." Iruka's chopsticks wavered over his half-eaten first bowl. "What is he to you? You've come here, asking all sorts of questions. Any other student and this would be a common place thing. I can't count how many people I've had come by to ask about Sasuke since he graduated, but this is NARUTO we're talking about. I've never had anyone come ask about him. At best everyone pretends he doesn't exist, so I ask, what are your reasons for these inquiries?"
"Reasons, huh?" Tenmar put the second empty ramen bowl on top of the first and signaled for yet another. "Perhaps it's a ploy to get closer to his teacher?" He gazed sideways at Iruka to see the brunette's face break into a huge blush before continuing on in a more serious tone. "I don't mean him any harm, if that's what you're worried about. There's just. something I have to know."
Iruka nodded. For some reason he did not doubt for even one moment the stranger's sincerity. Placing a good natured hand on Tenmar's shoulder, he gave the man an encouraging smile. "I hope you find what you're looking for."
A tanned hand snaked out and grasped Iruka's before he could completely withdraw it. "I wasn't kidding about wanting to get closer to you. You are a very interesting man, Iruka-sensei." He watched again as a bright flush filled Iruka's face.
"I- Thank you, but I." Taking a deep breath, Iruka calmed his pounding heart and pulled his hand out from Tenmar's grip. "I'm involved with someone, so. I'm sorry."
"What a pity." Tenmar finished off his third bowl of ramen and stood. "Well, I don't give up easily. I'll be seeing you." He paid the attendant for both their meals and turned to leave. There was a dark shadow blocking his exit. "Ah, excuse me."
"Excuse you?" Kakashi's voice responded. "I don't think so." He crossed his arms and leaned on the counter. "Naruto is my student now. Any further question about him can be brought to me."
Iruka's eyes widened. "How long have you been standing there?"
The silver haired Jounin put a gentle hand on his lover's arm, sending him a small smile through his facial mask. "I went to check on you after the meeting, I knew you disagreed with my decision to send the kids to the exam. When you weren't at the school I figured that you might be here. My next bet was to check your apartment." He allowed his gaze to flicker back to Tenmar, who was still waiting to be allowed passage. "I don't recognize you, kid. My name's-"
"Hatake Kakashi, Jounin level Ninja, Age 26, current instructor of Uuchia Sasuke, Haruno Sakura and Uzumaki Naruto. Am I missing anything?"
"Adamant fan of Come Come Paradise and boyfriend of Umino Iruka." Kakashi intoned, a bored sound in his voice. Iruka recognized that tone; it was the one Kakashi used when he was annoyed.
"Ah, I'll make sure to add that to my information." The younger man stretched out his hand. "Tenmar."
Kakashi accepted the outstretched hand in a brief shake and moved to the side, allowing the blonde access to the exit. "Be sure that you do!" He called in a cheerful tone as Tenmar took his leave. He then turned his visible eye to his lover, a questioning look across his mostly hidden face.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"So, how'd it go?" A tall boy with short, spiky red hair and bright blue eyes ran up to Tenmar as soon as he stepped into a plain hotel room.
The blonde's head hung, a river of tears flowing from his eyes. "He had a boyfriend." He sniffed sadly.
"Not that. He meant about the Uzumaki kid? What do you think? Is he the one?" A third boy spoke lazily from his spot on one of the two hotel beds. This one had short white hair and piercing green eyes.
Tenmar's head rose, all playfulness dropped. "It's a good bet. That teacher, Iruka-sensei was very impressed with him."
A tentative knock made all three men turn cautious eyes to the door. "Tenmar-niisan? Uzu-nii? Ganten-niichan?" A soft frightened voice called from the other side of the door. "Ano. It's Mina. It's scary out here. Please let me in." The knocking sound repeated.
"Yeah?" The red head called standing in front of the door, "If you're Mina-chan than what's the secret password?"
"Ano." The voice sounded even closer to tears. The sound of movement further down the hall and a boisterous laugh from another hotel patron further away and the men heard a gentle eep. "Ano. I don't know."
Tenmar pushed his younger brother to the side and opened the door for his terrified baby sister. "There, there. I won't let mean old Uzu tease you any longer, so stop your crying." He shot a vicious glare to the red head, who was lying on the floor clutching his sides and laughing. Wiping the tears from her eyes the girl nodded and Tenmar couldn't help but think again how much she looked like their mother. Her hair was obviously a little darker (mother's had been more the shade of Uzu's hair, almost pink, but not quite) but was approximately the same length and she was definitely going to be taller whenever she finished growing, but her eyes were exactly the same bright green color. Ganten's eyes were also that color.
Of course, as much as Mina looked like their mother, Tenmar himself resembled their father. Bright blue eyes and almost the same shade of blonde for the hair. As for Ganten and Uzu, they were mixes of the two, both with a few physical characteristics of each. The only feature on the four of them that Tenmar could really feel was completely unique was Ganten's bright white hair.
As for their personalities. he wasn't sure WHERE they came from. Tenmar had tried to groom himself to be exactly like he remembered his father to be, kind and strong, perhaps slightly on the playful side, but the kind of person that made others simply feel good about themselves. It was hard to have lost both mother and father while they were so young, especially with Uncle Kentaar searching for them, but he had raised his siblings to the best of his abilities. Aunt Ulran helped when she could, but for the most part they were on their own.
Surprisingly it was Ganten (the second youngest) that was the most helpful, doing a majority of the cooking and making sure that things like having a stock of food for the winter were done. He had a level head and a cool intellect even in the face of great danger. Ganten was also the one that was best at finding places to live when it was necessary to move (an event that happened quite frequently). He relied on Ganten to be his second in command and when ever he was gone for long periods he would leave the white headed boy in charge.
Uzu (second oldest) was a tad on the wild side. He was the only one of the four that witnessed their mother's death and ever since his personality was a little off. He was the best hunter of the group, but his method was something that disturbed Tenmar; preferring to hunt with his bare hands and occasionally eating segments of his prey raw and even more disturbing, alive. It was also common for Uzu to go into his fox form and disappear for days at a time. If it weren't for his pure heart and genuine love for his siblings Tenmar would have doubted his loyalties.
No, it was Mina that worried Tenmar most of all. It wasn't that he doubted her power, like all of them she was quite an accomplished fighter with more power than most humans could even dream of. Nor was it her loyalty, it was her timid nature. She was so frightened of everything here in the town, she wasn't able to enjoy the company of people besides her brothers and she was terrified of anyone else to boot. The nearby fox tribes she got along with well enough, but now that they were in town she acted like a cornered rabbit. He blamed himself that she turned out this way; she had never known either father or mother, perhaps if they had been around to raise her.
With a shake of his head Tenmar forced his self depreciating thoughts to the side. "Ok, so here is the plan, we need to get Naruto alone, without him seeing us before hand. It's possible that he may recognize us somehow and we don't need him blowing our cover before we have a chance to explain ourselves to him. Remember, if anyone approaches you, you three are Genin, here to participate in the upcoming Chuunin exam. I am your teacher. Are we all OK on this?" He waited for each of his siblings to nod before continuing. "Alright. We make our move tonight."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Ha ha, that was fun." An exhausted Naruto laughed as he leaned against a wall, trying to catch his breath. He, Sakura, Konohamaru and his gang had run through the entire town for the last few hours.
Sakura shook her head, but before she was able to speak she had to pause to take in a few deep breaths. She had sunk to the ground and was having trouble standing. That much running was hard on her poor legs and she was secretly amazed that Naruto could still stand. "We lost those kids a couple hours ago, I think."
Naruto sent her his trademark energetic smile and put his hands behind his head. "Well, there's nothing like a lot of running for endurance training." He sniffed as a strange smell reached his nose and quickly put his arms down. "I need a bath!"
"What a gentleman you are, Naruto!" An obnoxious voice said from behind the two.
"Kiba! I'd recognize that doggy stench from anywhere!" Naruto spun quickly, all thoughts of feeling drained fleeing his mind as he pointed at the dog trainer. "You aren't one to speak; you stink even worse that I do." His smile grew when he noticed that it wasn't just Kiba, but Hinata, Shino, Shikamaru, Choji and Ino as well that stood behind him. "What are you guys doing here, anyway?"
Shikamaru sighed in a peevish manner. "Do you know how much trouble you've been causing, running around like an idiot? We were sent to stop you from making a mess of the town. You're such a pain, Naruto."
Hinata was hiding slightly behind Kiba, holding both fingers in front of her mouth, a slight blush on her checks. Naruto sent a small smile to her and she blushed even brighter as she moved to hide completely behind Kiba. Three more ninja jumped down next to the group. Naruto wasn't sure he recognized them, but they were probably older Genin. "Good, you found them." A strange looking boy with long hair and white eyes said, staring mostly at Hinata.
Sakura blushed as she realized that they must have been causing quite a bit of trouble if nine Genin were sent out to look for them. "Gomen, I didn't realize that we were causing that much trouble." She rose shakily and bowed to their pursuers.
"Nah," Kiba said, with a wave, "You really weren't. I think they were just all up in arms because there are so many visiting Ninja with the Chuunin exam coming up and all."
"What?" Naruto yelled loudly. "Oh man! I didn't know! When did that happen? I can't wait!" He started dancing around causing the others, even those that didn't know him, to roll their eyes.
"Not everyone can participate in the Chuunin exams, you idiot!" Shikakaru spoke. "You have to get referred by your sensei."
But Naruto was in his own world, and was not paying attention. "Chuunin! Chuunin! Hee hee hee!"
In a fit of sudden anger Sakura regained much of her strength in order to slam her fist onto the top pf Naruto's head. "Listen to what other people say, idiot!"
Naruto pried his face from the concrete as an idea jumped into his mind. "We should have a party to celebrate the exams! Everyone come to Sasuke's and we'll have a huge bonfire!"
There was a sudden rustle of leaves and suddenly Sasuke was springing from some nearby trees. "Don't offer my house, dobe!"
"Don't call me dobe, bastard!" Naruto responded. "Anyway, your house is perfect for a party! You have a huge back yard!"
Kiba had picked up Naruto's mood by this time. "Yeah! A big party! The nine rookie Genin of Konoha!" He glanced at the three non-rookie Genin and gave them a dismissal wave. "I guess you guys can come, too."
"Don't invite people to someone else's house!" Sasuke was yelling, even as Tenten threw her arms around her teammates and exclaimed, "Yeah! A party sounds fun, doesn't it Lee, Neiji?" The one identified as Lee was nodding his head adamantly, his eyes fixed on Sakura.
And so, against Sasuke's indignant demands that it not be so, the party began and it lasted well into the night until team by team the other Genins headed home. Last to leave was Shikamaru's team with Sakura. When everyone was finally gone Naruto turned a questioning smile to Sasuke. "Should we start cleaning now, or let it sit until morning?" He asked happily.
"Humph." Sasuke replied, crossing his arms across his chest. "WE will do nothing; YOU will clean this mess before you even think about going to bed." With that said the stoic boy turned and walked sleepily into his house.
"I wasn't the only person that enjoyed that party, you know!" Naruto shouted to the closing door.
"Don't yell, dobe!" Came the sharp reply, "My neighbors are trying to sleep, and we've kept them up long enough, don't you think?" This was a blatant lie as Sasuke's closest neighbor was far out of hearing range.
"Don't call me dobe, Bastard!" Came the automatic response as Naruto threw another log on the bonfire. He didn't really need the light to see the yard, but it was a happy memento of the party and, as it was Naruto's first, he wanted to keep it alive as long as he could.
As he systematically scanned the yard for trash or food he could not help but feel like someone was watching him. Putting the thoughts out of his head, he decided the quickest way to clean Sasuke's yard would be to make a game out of it. "Alright!" He cried.
Sasuke watched the boy running from one part of the yard to another from his window. It looked like he had separated the yard into segments and was making a game out of seeing which section he could clean fastest. "That idiot." He muttered; small smile touching his lips as he thought about how big the boy's grin got at the party, when he was surrounded by friends. Every so often, when he thought Sasuke was being too anti social, Naruto would look at him with an adorable smirk and that trickster glint in his eyes and find some way to drag him into the conversation. He closed his eyes and lay back in his bed thinking about how much happier he was now that Naruto was living with him. Eventually the time would come when they would have to separate, but for now. Sasuke allowed his mind to start drifting towards slumber. If he had only kept his eyes open a little longer he would have seen a shadow pass quickly and silently by his window.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Psychic King: *dabbing at forehead and speaking to no one in particular* Whew. I just spent the whole day writing. I wasn't going to, but man, I was so inspired! Anyway, I wanted to give my reviewers a little something for sending me so many reviews before I went out of town for the weekend! I did just hit thirty reviews, after all.
Iruka: *pointing accusatory finger at Psychic King* you keep making Naruto and I speak to ourselves out loud, but really it's you that does that! You're just pushing your bad habits off on other people!
Tenmar: *spotting Iruka* Hey there! *smiles his million watt smile* I was just thinking about you!
Iruka: *blushing* what? I mean. Hey! What happened to me having someone and you respecting that?
Tenmar: *blushing and placing one hand behind his head* Well. That was before I got to know you. You really are very special. *moving closer to Iruka* I'd like to know you a whole lot better.
Kakashi: *suddenly appearing, fires of hell behind him* what did I tell you about keeping your distance, kid?
Tenmar: *getting into a fighting stance* I'm ready anytime, geezer.
Uzu: *suddenly appearing next to Tenmar, shaking fists at Kakashi* HEY! You can't threaten my big brother like that, ya freak!
Psychic King: *.* Hum. This may take a while.
Sakura: Well, would this be a good time for the second ever Psychic-King- tells-the-readers-useless-information-in-hopes-that-it-stimulates-them-to- review?
Psychic King: *nodding* and I have a special treat for you this time. I'm going to list the stats of the four children! Starting with Tenmar:
Name: Tenmar
Age: 20
Sex: Male
Preference: Men (Sakura: OF COURSE, you can't introduce a hot guy and make him strait for once, can you?)
Family: Mother Illia, deceased; Younger brother Uzu, living; Younger brother Ganten, living; Younger sister Mina, living; Father Fox demon, uncertain.
Height: 6 foot 4 (Sorry! This is the only measurements that I understand! I'm a stupid American!)
Weight: 175 (That's in pounds, but hey he's pretty thin considering his height and muscles!)
Blood type: . To be decided.
Brief notes: Tenmar has a strong sense of responsibility. His whole world is his brothers and sister and he would do anything to protect them. His turn-ons include ramen and Iruka (tee hee).
Up next (in order of age) we have Uzu!
Name: Uzu
Age: 17
Sex: male
Preference: None. or both. He's open to anything, as long as whoever it is turns out to be fun.
Family: (see Tenmars family, but take out Uzu and replace with Older Brother, Tenmar, living)
Height: 5 foot 8 (not to short himself, eh?)
Weight: 140
Blood type: I don't know. Sorry!
Brief Notes: Seeing his mother killed by his uncle seems to have hurt poor Uzu's psyche. Despite his wild tendencies he is a good person and very loyal to Tenmar and the others. His heart is in the right place, although is mind often is not (suffering from the same foot in mouth syndrome Naruto seems to exhibit). He loves to play tricks. His turn-ons include honesty and people with good senses of humor.
Continuing on, Ganten!
Name: Ganten
Age: 15
Sex: Male
Preference: I haven't decided. It may never come up.
Family: I'm beginning to wish I hadn't included this. But I think you guys can figure it out, right?
Height: 5 foot 7 (but he's still a growing boy)
Weight: 120 (WAY too skinny)
Blood type: Heh. You really think I know this one when I didn't know the others?
Brief notes: Ganten is very different from the rest of his family in that he is a very structured person. He thrives off mental challenges and is hoping that while in town he can meet someone that will provide just that. He's focused so much on the mental that he has trouble with emotional things, so he can come off as sarcastic and uncaring, but he really loves his family (noticing a trend? Well, they've lived off only each other's support for pretty much their whole lives, what do you expect?). One of the reason's he's so skinny is that he rations less food out to himself. Turn-ons include mental challenges and quiet people. (I kind of visualize him as an older, taller Killua from Hunter X Hunter for those of you that are interested).
And last but certainly not least, Mina!
Name: Mina
Age: 14
Sex: female
Preference: She's too scared of people to be turned on by them!
Height: 4 foot 10 (little in comparison, ain't she? But like Tenmar said, she's been growing recently)
Weight: A lady never tells her weight!
Blood type: O (just kidding, I still don't know, gomen!)
Brief note: Being the youngest and the only girl Mina was kind of spoiled and over protected by her brothers. As a result she is a very timid little girl, although she quite possibly is the most powerful of the siblings. She likes to wear long, frilly, black dresses (bright red hair is so hard to match colors with!). Her turn-ons include being left alone and people that can make her laugh. An interesting fast is that she is the ONLY person ever to call Ganten 'chan.'
Anyway, that's the group! I hope all you readers enjoy this chapter! *waves bye bye*
Sakura: *sighing* It's too late to tell them that now! They've already read the chapter!
Psychic King: *ignoring Sakura* Please review! Have a great weekend! I'm off to drive for the next six hours! Bye! Wish me a safe journey if you want more chapters! *continues waving until she's faded out*
Naruto: Clever about what?
Psychic King: Picking up the hints that I left them! Obviously! *sigh*
Sakura: Yeah, about that. I was reading this chapter 4 and. *in a dangerous tone* Why am I upset about loosing Naruto's affections? Hum? Care to enlighten me, Psychic King-sama? *twitching slightly*
Psychic King: Sakura, are you OK? Your eyebrow is. pulsating.
Naruto: *looking worried* Yeah, she gets like that whenever we talk about you, now.
Sakura: *muttering* turn Sasuke gay. making me jealous over Naruto. just look what she's done to poor Kakashi-sensei.
Psychic King and Naruto: *turn to watch Kakashi creep across screen, trailing after Tenmar, who is searching for Naruto* *both shrug*
Sakura: *Speaking out loud now* SO? Are you gonna explain why I'm jealous?
Psychic King: *holding hands up in a placating gesture* Ma, ma. It's not really jealousy, per say, it's more. loss. I've experienced it myself at times when a male friend would flirt with me and then, for whatever reason, (say he gets a girlfriend) suddenly stops doing it. It's not that I wanted that friend, per say, but more that I wanted his attention and his affections. It's very selfish, but also a very natural reaction. *looks at Sakura's still angry face* Uh. *turns and starts running*
Sakura: *Angry* HEY! You get back here! *takes off after Psychic King*
Tenamr: *finally looking up* Naruto-sama! There you are! *runs to Naruto* I've been looking EVERYWHERE for you.
Naruto: *backing away* Yeah, sure, guy. Whatever. *looks at Kakashi* who the hell's this guy?
Kakashi: *confused* you mean you DON'T know? Geez, we were hoping that you could tell US.
Naruto: *ignoring Tanmar* let's go ask the old hag!
Kakashi: *nods and starts to walk off with Naruto*
Tenmar: *To the audience* I guess now would be a good time to say that Psychic King-sama does not own Naruto-sama or any of his affiliates. *chasing after Naruto and Kakashi* Hey, don't just leave me alone here! This place is creepy!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Embrace of Solitude
Chapter 5
"So." The blonde stranger, Tenmar, settled into a seat at the ramen stand. "Tell me about this Naruto kid."
Iruka felt once again felt himself bristle. Who was this guy to call Naruto some random kid? "He's a lot more than 'this Naruto kid.'" Iruka replied, a small smile starting to form on his lips as he thought about Naruto. "He's. Loud, obnoxious, clumsy, a prankster to the very end, terrible at paying attention in class, and his big mouth has gotten him into more than one bad situation." Tenmar's face fell slightly, but Iruka didn't seem to notice and pushed on. "But he's got a heart of gold. He seems to know just what to say to lighten the mood when things get heavy, his clumsy 'accidents' occasionally seem to be more of an act and have served to help him get his way, he has a determination like none I've ever seen, an inner strength that. amazes me to this day, and his faith and love for this village even though they treat him like a monster. Everything it takes to be the best Hokage ever." The teacher trailed off, a fond smile shining on his face.
Throughout the last part of the conversation Tenmar's smile had returned. "How interesting." He leaned back into his chair. "It sounds like he's more than just a student to you."
"You obviously don't know him." Iruka replied. "Naruto is never 'just' an ANYTHING. You can't know him, I mean really know him, and not think of him as something completely special."
"What is he to you? 'Something completely special' means what in your terms?" The blonde signaled for another bowl of ramen.
"I guess I've taken the role of big brother, if I had to put a name on it." Iruka's chopsticks wavered over his half-eaten first bowl. "What is he to you? You've come here, asking all sorts of questions. Any other student and this would be a common place thing. I can't count how many people I've had come by to ask about Sasuke since he graduated, but this is NARUTO we're talking about. I've never had anyone come ask about him. At best everyone pretends he doesn't exist, so I ask, what are your reasons for these inquiries?"
"Reasons, huh?" Tenmar put the second empty ramen bowl on top of the first and signaled for yet another. "Perhaps it's a ploy to get closer to his teacher?" He gazed sideways at Iruka to see the brunette's face break into a huge blush before continuing on in a more serious tone. "I don't mean him any harm, if that's what you're worried about. There's just. something I have to know."
Iruka nodded. For some reason he did not doubt for even one moment the stranger's sincerity. Placing a good natured hand on Tenmar's shoulder, he gave the man an encouraging smile. "I hope you find what you're looking for."
A tanned hand snaked out and grasped Iruka's before he could completely withdraw it. "I wasn't kidding about wanting to get closer to you. You are a very interesting man, Iruka-sensei." He watched again as a bright flush filled Iruka's face.
"I- Thank you, but I." Taking a deep breath, Iruka calmed his pounding heart and pulled his hand out from Tenmar's grip. "I'm involved with someone, so. I'm sorry."
"What a pity." Tenmar finished off his third bowl of ramen and stood. "Well, I don't give up easily. I'll be seeing you." He paid the attendant for both their meals and turned to leave. There was a dark shadow blocking his exit. "Ah, excuse me."
"Excuse you?" Kakashi's voice responded. "I don't think so." He crossed his arms and leaned on the counter. "Naruto is my student now. Any further question about him can be brought to me."
Iruka's eyes widened. "How long have you been standing there?"
The silver haired Jounin put a gentle hand on his lover's arm, sending him a small smile through his facial mask. "I went to check on you after the meeting, I knew you disagreed with my decision to send the kids to the exam. When you weren't at the school I figured that you might be here. My next bet was to check your apartment." He allowed his gaze to flicker back to Tenmar, who was still waiting to be allowed passage. "I don't recognize you, kid. My name's-"
"Hatake Kakashi, Jounin level Ninja, Age 26, current instructor of Uuchia Sasuke, Haruno Sakura and Uzumaki Naruto. Am I missing anything?"
"Adamant fan of Come Come Paradise and boyfriend of Umino Iruka." Kakashi intoned, a bored sound in his voice. Iruka recognized that tone; it was the one Kakashi used when he was annoyed.
"Ah, I'll make sure to add that to my information." The younger man stretched out his hand. "Tenmar."
Kakashi accepted the outstretched hand in a brief shake and moved to the side, allowing the blonde access to the exit. "Be sure that you do!" He called in a cheerful tone as Tenmar took his leave. He then turned his visible eye to his lover, a questioning look across his mostly hidden face.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"So, how'd it go?" A tall boy with short, spiky red hair and bright blue eyes ran up to Tenmar as soon as he stepped into a plain hotel room.
The blonde's head hung, a river of tears flowing from his eyes. "He had a boyfriend." He sniffed sadly.
"Not that. He meant about the Uzumaki kid? What do you think? Is he the one?" A third boy spoke lazily from his spot on one of the two hotel beds. This one had short white hair and piercing green eyes.
Tenmar's head rose, all playfulness dropped. "It's a good bet. That teacher, Iruka-sensei was very impressed with him."
A tentative knock made all three men turn cautious eyes to the door. "Tenmar-niisan? Uzu-nii? Ganten-niichan?" A soft frightened voice called from the other side of the door. "Ano. It's Mina. It's scary out here. Please let me in." The knocking sound repeated.
"Yeah?" The red head called standing in front of the door, "If you're Mina-chan than what's the secret password?"
"Ano." The voice sounded even closer to tears. The sound of movement further down the hall and a boisterous laugh from another hotel patron further away and the men heard a gentle eep. "Ano. I don't know."
Tenmar pushed his younger brother to the side and opened the door for his terrified baby sister. "There, there. I won't let mean old Uzu tease you any longer, so stop your crying." He shot a vicious glare to the red head, who was lying on the floor clutching his sides and laughing. Wiping the tears from her eyes the girl nodded and Tenmar couldn't help but think again how much she looked like their mother. Her hair was obviously a little darker (mother's had been more the shade of Uzu's hair, almost pink, but not quite) but was approximately the same length and she was definitely going to be taller whenever she finished growing, but her eyes were exactly the same bright green color. Ganten's eyes were also that color.
Of course, as much as Mina looked like their mother, Tenmar himself resembled their father. Bright blue eyes and almost the same shade of blonde for the hair. As for Ganten and Uzu, they were mixes of the two, both with a few physical characteristics of each. The only feature on the four of them that Tenmar could really feel was completely unique was Ganten's bright white hair.
As for their personalities. he wasn't sure WHERE they came from. Tenmar had tried to groom himself to be exactly like he remembered his father to be, kind and strong, perhaps slightly on the playful side, but the kind of person that made others simply feel good about themselves. It was hard to have lost both mother and father while they were so young, especially with Uncle Kentaar searching for them, but he had raised his siblings to the best of his abilities. Aunt Ulran helped when she could, but for the most part they were on their own.
Surprisingly it was Ganten (the second youngest) that was the most helpful, doing a majority of the cooking and making sure that things like having a stock of food for the winter were done. He had a level head and a cool intellect even in the face of great danger. Ganten was also the one that was best at finding places to live when it was necessary to move (an event that happened quite frequently). He relied on Ganten to be his second in command and when ever he was gone for long periods he would leave the white headed boy in charge.
Uzu (second oldest) was a tad on the wild side. He was the only one of the four that witnessed their mother's death and ever since his personality was a little off. He was the best hunter of the group, but his method was something that disturbed Tenmar; preferring to hunt with his bare hands and occasionally eating segments of his prey raw and even more disturbing, alive. It was also common for Uzu to go into his fox form and disappear for days at a time. If it weren't for his pure heart and genuine love for his siblings Tenmar would have doubted his loyalties.
No, it was Mina that worried Tenmar most of all. It wasn't that he doubted her power, like all of them she was quite an accomplished fighter with more power than most humans could even dream of. Nor was it her loyalty, it was her timid nature. She was so frightened of everything here in the town, she wasn't able to enjoy the company of people besides her brothers and she was terrified of anyone else to boot. The nearby fox tribes she got along with well enough, but now that they were in town she acted like a cornered rabbit. He blamed himself that she turned out this way; she had never known either father or mother, perhaps if they had been around to raise her.
With a shake of his head Tenmar forced his self depreciating thoughts to the side. "Ok, so here is the plan, we need to get Naruto alone, without him seeing us before hand. It's possible that he may recognize us somehow and we don't need him blowing our cover before we have a chance to explain ourselves to him. Remember, if anyone approaches you, you three are Genin, here to participate in the upcoming Chuunin exam. I am your teacher. Are we all OK on this?" He waited for each of his siblings to nod before continuing. "Alright. We make our move tonight."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Ha ha, that was fun." An exhausted Naruto laughed as he leaned against a wall, trying to catch his breath. He, Sakura, Konohamaru and his gang had run through the entire town for the last few hours.
Sakura shook her head, but before she was able to speak she had to pause to take in a few deep breaths. She had sunk to the ground and was having trouble standing. That much running was hard on her poor legs and she was secretly amazed that Naruto could still stand. "We lost those kids a couple hours ago, I think."
Naruto sent her his trademark energetic smile and put his hands behind his head. "Well, there's nothing like a lot of running for endurance training." He sniffed as a strange smell reached his nose and quickly put his arms down. "I need a bath!"
"What a gentleman you are, Naruto!" An obnoxious voice said from behind the two.
"Kiba! I'd recognize that doggy stench from anywhere!" Naruto spun quickly, all thoughts of feeling drained fleeing his mind as he pointed at the dog trainer. "You aren't one to speak; you stink even worse that I do." His smile grew when he noticed that it wasn't just Kiba, but Hinata, Shino, Shikamaru, Choji and Ino as well that stood behind him. "What are you guys doing here, anyway?"
Shikamaru sighed in a peevish manner. "Do you know how much trouble you've been causing, running around like an idiot? We were sent to stop you from making a mess of the town. You're such a pain, Naruto."
Hinata was hiding slightly behind Kiba, holding both fingers in front of her mouth, a slight blush on her checks. Naruto sent a small smile to her and she blushed even brighter as she moved to hide completely behind Kiba. Three more ninja jumped down next to the group. Naruto wasn't sure he recognized them, but they were probably older Genin. "Good, you found them." A strange looking boy with long hair and white eyes said, staring mostly at Hinata.
Sakura blushed as she realized that they must have been causing quite a bit of trouble if nine Genin were sent out to look for them. "Gomen, I didn't realize that we were causing that much trouble." She rose shakily and bowed to their pursuers.
"Nah," Kiba said, with a wave, "You really weren't. I think they were just all up in arms because there are so many visiting Ninja with the Chuunin exam coming up and all."
"What?" Naruto yelled loudly. "Oh man! I didn't know! When did that happen? I can't wait!" He started dancing around causing the others, even those that didn't know him, to roll their eyes.
"Not everyone can participate in the Chuunin exams, you idiot!" Shikakaru spoke. "You have to get referred by your sensei."
But Naruto was in his own world, and was not paying attention. "Chuunin! Chuunin! Hee hee hee!"
In a fit of sudden anger Sakura regained much of her strength in order to slam her fist onto the top pf Naruto's head. "Listen to what other people say, idiot!"
Naruto pried his face from the concrete as an idea jumped into his mind. "We should have a party to celebrate the exams! Everyone come to Sasuke's and we'll have a huge bonfire!"
There was a sudden rustle of leaves and suddenly Sasuke was springing from some nearby trees. "Don't offer my house, dobe!"
"Don't call me dobe, bastard!" Naruto responded. "Anyway, your house is perfect for a party! You have a huge back yard!"
Kiba had picked up Naruto's mood by this time. "Yeah! A big party! The nine rookie Genin of Konoha!" He glanced at the three non-rookie Genin and gave them a dismissal wave. "I guess you guys can come, too."
"Don't invite people to someone else's house!" Sasuke was yelling, even as Tenten threw her arms around her teammates and exclaimed, "Yeah! A party sounds fun, doesn't it Lee, Neiji?" The one identified as Lee was nodding his head adamantly, his eyes fixed on Sakura.
And so, against Sasuke's indignant demands that it not be so, the party began and it lasted well into the night until team by team the other Genins headed home. Last to leave was Shikamaru's team with Sakura. When everyone was finally gone Naruto turned a questioning smile to Sasuke. "Should we start cleaning now, or let it sit until morning?" He asked happily.
"Humph." Sasuke replied, crossing his arms across his chest. "WE will do nothing; YOU will clean this mess before you even think about going to bed." With that said the stoic boy turned and walked sleepily into his house.
"I wasn't the only person that enjoyed that party, you know!" Naruto shouted to the closing door.
"Don't yell, dobe!" Came the sharp reply, "My neighbors are trying to sleep, and we've kept them up long enough, don't you think?" This was a blatant lie as Sasuke's closest neighbor was far out of hearing range.
"Don't call me dobe, Bastard!" Came the automatic response as Naruto threw another log on the bonfire. He didn't really need the light to see the yard, but it was a happy memento of the party and, as it was Naruto's first, he wanted to keep it alive as long as he could.
As he systematically scanned the yard for trash or food he could not help but feel like someone was watching him. Putting the thoughts out of his head, he decided the quickest way to clean Sasuke's yard would be to make a game out of it. "Alright!" He cried.
Sasuke watched the boy running from one part of the yard to another from his window. It looked like he had separated the yard into segments and was making a game out of seeing which section he could clean fastest. "That idiot." He muttered; small smile touching his lips as he thought about how big the boy's grin got at the party, when he was surrounded by friends. Every so often, when he thought Sasuke was being too anti social, Naruto would look at him with an adorable smirk and that trickster glint in his eyes and find some way to drag him into the conversation. He closed his eyes and lay back in his bed thinking about how much happier he was now that Naruto was living with him. Eventually the time would come when they would have to separate, but for now. Sasuke allowed his mind to start drifting towards slumber. If he had only kept his eyes open a little longer he would have seen a shadow pass quickly and silently by his window.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Psychic King: *dabbing at forehead and speaking to no one in particular* Whew. I just spent the whole day writing. I wasn't going to, but man, I was so inspired! Anyway, I wanted to give my reviewers a little something for sending me so many reviews before I went out of town for the weekend! I did just hit thirty reviews, after all.
Iruka: *pointing accusatory finger at Psychic King* you keep making Naruto and I speak to ourselves out loud, but really it's you that does that! You're just pushing your bad habits off on other people!
Tenmar: *spotting Iruka* Hey there! *smiles his million watt smile* I was just thinking about you!
Iruka: *blushing* what? I mean. Hey! What happened to me having someone and you respecting that?
Tenmar: *blushing and placing one hand behind his head* Well. That was before I got to know you. You really are very special. *moving closer to Iruka* I'd like to know you a whole lot better.
Kakashi: *suddenly appearing, fires of hell behind him* what did I tell you about keeping your distance, kid?
Tenmar: *getting into a fighting stance* I'm ready anytime, geezer.
Uzu: *suddenly appearing next to Tenmar, shaking fists at Kakashi* HEY! You can't threaten my big brother like that, ya freak!
Psychic King: *.* Hum. This may take a while.
Sakura: Well, would this be a good time for the second ever Psychic-King- tells-the-readers-useless-information-in-hopes-that-it-stimulates-them-to- review?
Psychic King: *nodding* and I have a special treat for you this time. I'm going to list the stats of the four children! Starting with Tenmar:
Name: Tenmar
Age: 20
Sex: Male
Preference: Men (Sakura: OF COURSE, you can't introduce a hot guy and make him strait for once, can you?)
Family: Mother Illia, deceased; Younger brother Uzu, living; Younger brother Ganten, living; Younger sister Mina, living; Father Fox demon, uncertain.
Height: 6 foot 4 (Sorry! This is the only measurements that I understand! I'm a stupid American!)
Weight: 175 (That's in pounds, but hey he's pretty thin considering his height and muscles!)
Blood type: . To be decided.
Brief notes: Tenmar has a strong sense of responsibility. His whole world is his brothers and sister and he would do anything to protect them. His turn-ons include ramen and Iruka (tee hee).
Up next (in order of age) we have Uzu!
Name: Uzu
Age: 17
Sex: male
Preference: None. or both. He's open to anything, as long as whoever it is turns out to be fun.
Family: (see Tenmars family, but take out Uzu and replace with Older Brother, Tenmar, living)
Height: 5 foot 8 (not to short himself, eh?)
Weight: 140
Blood type: I don't know. Sorry!
Brief Notes: Seeing his mother killed by his uncle seems to have hurt poor Uzu's psyche. Despite his wild tendencies he is a good person and very loyal to Tenmar and the others. His heart is in the right place, although is mind often is not (suffering from the same foot in mouth syndrome Naruto seems to exhibit). He loves to play tricks. His turn-ons include honesty and people with good senses of humor.
Continuing on, Ganten!
Name: Ganten
Age: 15
Sex: Male
Preference: I haven't decided. It may never come up.
Family: I'm beginning to wish I hadn't included this. But I think you guys can figure it out, right?
Height: 5 foot 7 (but he's still a growing boy)
Weight: 120 (WAY too skinny)
Blood type: Heh. You really think I know this one when I didn't know the others?
Brief notes: Ganten is very different from the rest of his family in that he is a very structured person. He thrives off mental challenges and is hoping that while in town he can meet someone that will provide just that. He's focused so much on the mental that he has trouble with emotional things, so he can come off as sarcastic and uncaring, but he really loves his family (noticing a trend? Well, they've lived off only each other's support for pretty much their whole lives, what do you expect?). One of the reason's he's so skinny is that he rations less food out to himself. Turn-ons include mental challenges and quiet people. (I kind of visualize him as an older, taller Killua from Hunter X Hunter for those of you that are interested).
And last but certainly not least, Mina!
Name: Mina
Age: 14
Sex: female
Preference: She's too scared of people to be turned on by them!
Height: 4 foot 10 (little in comparison, ain't she? But like Tenmar said, she's been growing recently)
Weight: A lady never tells her weight!
Blood type: O (just kidding, I still don't know, gomen!)
Brief note: Being the youngest and the only girl Mina was kind of spoiled and over protected by her brothers. As a result she is a very timid little girl, although she quite possibly is the most powerful of the siblings. She likes to wear long, frilly, black dresses (bright red hair is so hard to match colors with!). Her turn-ons include being left alone and people that can make her laugh. An interesting fast is that she is the ONLY person ever to call Ganten 'chan.'
Anyway, that's the group! I hope all you readers enjoy this chapter! *waves bye bye*
Sakura: *sighing* It's too late to tell them that now! They've already read the chapter!
Psychic King: *ignoring Sakura* Please review! Have a great weekend! I'm off to drive for the next six hours! Bye! Wish me a safe journey if you want more chapters! *continues waving until she's faded out*