Psychic King: *Standing in a corner, blanket wrapped around shoulders,
blowing nose* I'b still sick.
Sakura: *walking by, noticing Psychic King* Psychic King-sama! WHAT are you doing out of bed? I told you no writing until you're feeling better!
Psychic King: *Backing away, coughing desperately* I don't wanna be in bed any more!
Sakura: *grabbing hold of Psychic King's collar* Oh no you don't, young lady!
Psychic King: *struggling and coughing* I'b not young! I'b older than you! A lod older!
Sakura: Ganten! She's trying to escape!
Ganten: *walking up, holding a hand on the still struggling Psychic King's forehead* Hum... It should be OK of she doesn't over exert herself.
Psychic King: *Glares triumphantly at Sakura for a moment then falls into a fight of coughing* I'b good! I'b good. *looking at the readers, eyes and nose running* Anybay... Blease enjoy this chabter. *waddling off screen* I'b gonna go lay down...
Sakura: *shaking head and glaring at Ganten* HOW could you let her write another chapter- I mean, get out of bed? She's obviously not well. She didn't even remember to tell the readers that she finally bought the rights to the series and is going to have Sasuke and I get married next episode!
Sasuke: *suddenly appearing, growling at Sakura* She didn't and I wouldn't.
Sakura: *pouting* Fine! So she DOESN'T own Naruto or any of us! And if she did she would never let me marry you, but a girl can dream, right?
Naruto: *walks on screen from Psychic King's bed room* Yeah, the old hag just wanted me to come out here and apologize to the readers for the lack of fighting in this chapter, but she hopes that a good dose of Shonen-ai will make up for it. *shrugs, walking up to Sasuke* Wonder what she meant?
Sasuke: Don't know, I haven't read the chapter yet.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Embrace of Solitude
Chapter10
Naruto paced suspiciously in front of the Hokage's office as he waited for Tenmar to emerge. As soon as they returned to Konoha a group of Ninja that Naruto didn't even recognize quickly and quietly escorted them to the Hokage's waiting room. Normally when Naruto was taken there for trouble making he would be forced to wait under stiff guard for at least an hour, but this time they were escorted right into the waiting room, and those waiting were told to leave. Naruto could feel cold glares on his back and short whispers of, "Looks who's causing trouble AGAIN." And, "It figures. It's HIM."
Soon after the room was cleared Kakashi and Iruka were called in, followed by Sasuke. Each went in and left without a word, although Sasuke did send a long glare Naruto's way before stalking out of the room. Following that Tenmar was called in and now Naruto was left alone in the room with Ganten, Uzu and Mina.
"What's taking SO LONG?" Uzu whined, voicing Naruto's own thoughts. He jumped up from his seat again, looking out the window before glancing back at Naruto. "I was going to wait until later to say anything, but... What's with these people? Are they all insolent or just ignorant?"
"What do you mean?" Naruto turned inquisitive eyes to the tall young man.
"The way they keep looking at you and the things they SAY!" Uzu let out a low whistle. "Man, it took all I had not to teach a few of them manners. Bastards." He spit on the carpeted floor of the office.
Naruto shrugged, folding his arms behind his head. "Nah, they ain't so bad once you get to know them. Most of 'em anyway. They just don't know any better. That's why one day I'm gonna FORCE 'em to pay attention to me and recognize my strength." He smiled in his innocent way.
Uzu grinned back, Naruto's excitement seeping into him. "That's awesome! I want to help!" The two identically placed their hands on their hips and began laughing.
"Annoying!" Ganten's sharp voice snapped over the laughing.
Naruto stopped cold, feeling slightly ashamed, but Uzu stuck out his tong, throwing his arm around Naruto's shoulder. "You're just jealous because Da- Naruto-sama and I are better than you."
"Naruto-sama isn't the problem." Ganten said through clenched teeth, jumping to his feet.
"Yeah? You got a problem with me LITTLE brother?" Uzu's hand dropped from Naruto's shoulders, body falling into a fighting stance.
"And if I do?" Ganten started circling Uzu slowly, eyes narrowed. "Are you hiding behind Naruto-sama, BIG brother? Are you that scared of what I can do to you?"
For a moment Naruto thought that the two were going to actually kill each other right there in the Hokage's waiting room. The moment passed quickly as Uzu's face broke into a huge, playful smile and Naruto saw for the first time Ganten's face break into a relaxed smile as well. "Hum?" Naruto looked from one to the other, confused. "What was THAT? Aren't you two going to kill each other now?"
Even Mina was looking blankly back at Naruto. "Kill each other?" Ganten repeated, slightly confused. "WHY would we seriously want to hurt each other? We're all we have; neither of us could destroy that by raising a hand against the other in anger. I mean, we were just playing. It was something YOU taught us; never take one another for granted, never raise your hand in anger against one another. When we get really mad at one another we usually have to have a family meeting, headed by Tenmar, who somehow NEVER gets angry." Ganten sighed, Naruto could hear a bit of annoyance creeping into his voice. "The last time Uzu hit me we were... Around 10."
Uzu laughed. "Yeah, you were such a little brat, you deserved all those beatings I gave you!"
A sudden rush of appreciation for Tenmar welled over Naruto. Not only had he started raising three siblings when he was eight all by himself, but he had done a good job of it, too.
The door to the Hokage's office opened, the Hokage and Tenmar walked out, smiling and talking. The Hokage turned to Naruto. "Naruto." Tenmar gave the boy an encouraging smile as Naruto walked past him and into the Hokage's office. He could hear Uzu raising his voice in a question as the door clicked shut.
Naruto looked around the Hokage's office in surprise. Normally when he spoke to the Hokage there were various Ninja and scribes running around doing various things. This was perhaps the first time that he was truly alone with the man. He grinned up at the man, folding his hands behind his head. "What's up?"
The old man shook his head. "Naruto... Even when you're not trying you cause a lot of problems..." He situated himself behind his desk, folding his hands in front of his mouth. "I have heard your story four or five times since you disappeared from various sources, and I do not need to hear it again. I do know that it appears that this town has done a grave injustice to both you and your... children. I have already spoken to Tenmar about that, now, as for you... I'm afraid all I have to offer you is the heartfelt apologies of an old man. The people's opinions are not bond to change even when the truth reaches them. Although I love these people I HAVE lived among them long enough to know of their stubbornness."
Naruto's smile grew a bit as the Hokage paused and he waved his hands dismissingly. "I've spent my whole life making them recognize me. I don't even want them to know the truth; it'd take some of the challenge away. Anyway, I can only imagine having to explain myself to everyone a millions times over." He rolled his eyes, but his attitude remained light and good natured.
"Are you certain?"
The blonde head nodded eagerly. "Unless Tenmar and the others insist on everyone knowing."
The Hokage shook his head in reply, small smirk forming on his lips. "No, he said something... similar. I guess you two really do think alike." His face straitened. "I have also been informed that there is someone most likely coming after you."
Naruto's face also sobered. "Yeah. That's possible. Kentaar... Just let me say good bye to Sakura-chan and the other-"
"That won't be necessary." The Hokage cut in, holding up a hand. "Even if some of the town wouldn't agree with me, you ARE a valuable citizen of this town and we do NOT throw our citizens out to the wolves, so to speak. Go back to the Uchiha mansion; some temporary arrangements have been made for Tenmar, Uzu, Ganten and Mina with more permanent arrangements to be made when this whole mess is sorted out between you and your brother."
"But what-" Naruto started only to be cut off again.
"I'll let them explain what their roles will be in the community their selves. I've had a long night and am eager for some rest, so if that's all?" The Hokage had stopped looking at Naruto before he began speaking, and was shuffling some papers around his desk, an air of finality hung in the air.
All the blonde could think of doing in reply was giving the Hokage a quick hug before dashing out of the room, "Thank you!"
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The first place he could think to go was Sasuke's house; he wanted to know what the Hokage said to the other boy, and with any luck that would be where Tenmar and the others went to find him. He rushed down his favorite places in town, grinning at people he knew as he passed by. Never before had he felt so at home rushing through the streets.
"Oi! Naruto, slow down!"
The voice reached the blonde's ears and he skidded to a halt. "Shikamaru!"
Shikamaru rolled his eyes and sighed in exasperation. "Geeze, you don't have to yell." He fell into pace next to Naruto as the blonde continued on his bounding way towards Sasuke's house. "I heard that some sort of crap happened after the party at Sasuke's house."
Naruto nodded, "Yeah, but it's all taken care of now." Suddenly the party felt like a different lifetime ago.
This seemed like enough of an answer for Shikamaru, who nodded then continued on, "So, are you guys participating?"
"In what?"
"In what?" Shikamaru mimicked. "In the Chuunin exam. Really! Talking to you is a waste of my time, isn't it? I heard that all of us rookies were recommended, so I assume that you and Sasuke are going to enter it, right?"
For a moment Naruto completely stopped walking, he stood in the middle of the street in stunned silence, then he turned to Shikamaru with a sheepish grin. "I forgot all about that!"
The spiky haired by just shook his head in stunned silence. "What ever happened must have been pretty amazing to make YOU forget about the exams."
The two rounded the corner, starting the walk down Sasuke's walkway wrapped in conversation about the upcoming exam. "Oi! Sasuke, I'm home!" The blonde called as he walked into the kitchen entrance of the humongous house.
"Welcome home Naruto-sama!" Tenmar called, from behind a large pot on the stove.
"Tenmar?" An incredulous tone crept into Naruto's voice. "What are YOU doing here?"
"As Sasuke-kun insisted when we arrived, I'm 'making myself useful.'" Tenmar's body appeared from around the pot. "Not that I cooked this! I'm just keeping my eye on it as Sasuke-kun requested. I don't believe I've met your friend."
"Uh, yeah! Shikamaru, this is Tenmar he's my..." Naruto trailed off.
"Relative. My siblings and I just moved to Konoha and Naruto-kun is the only family we have, so Sasuke-kun was gracious enough to allow us to stay here with Naruto-sama for the time being." Tenmar reached a hand out.
Accepting the hand Shikamaru replied, "It's nice to meet yo-" His words were drowned out by a long string of cursing from outside.
"Uzu!" Tenmar barked, face going from pleasant to demonic in one second flat. "WHAT is your problem? I'm talking to Naruto-sama!"
"Yay!" Uzu bound into the house, covered from head to toe in dirt and grime. "Naruto-sama's home! How was talking to the old man?" He glanced at Shikamaru. "Oh! We have a guest!" He grinned and leaned down so they were eye level. "Hey, I'm Uzu."
"Shikamaru." The spiky haired boy backed away a little. It would be annoying if this guy got his clothes dirty and he had to listen to his mother bitching.
"Ignore him, he's a moron." A cold collected voice spoke from behind the brunette. Shikamaru turned to stare at yet another strange boy with short white hair. "I'm Ganten." He pointed to the corner where a red head could ALMOST be seen. "That's Mina." Ganten turned to Tenmar. "Sasuke wants to know if the stew started to boil and if Naruto-sama was back."
Uzu's face went from open and happy to dark and angry in a flash. "That kid's got a real chip on his shoulder, you know? As soon as we arrived he showed us our rooms and locked himself up in his bed room." He sighed in disgust and stomped past Shikamaru and Naruto. "Well, if you'll excuse me, I have to wash myself before dinner. I'd hate to anger the great lord Sasuke." Sarcasm dripped like venom from his voice.
Tenmar took a moment to smile at his brother and then panic crossed his features. "Shit! The stew!" He ran back to the large pot and began quickly stirring it, frown deepening he began to mutter incoherently to himself as he added a little more water.
"Well, that's my family!" Naruto said happily to Shikamaru. "Hey! Why don't you stay for dinner? I gotta go see what stick crawled up Sasuke's a-" But he was already gone up the stairs and the remainder of his words were not heard.
Shikamaru sent a bored glance around the room and sighed. The white haired boy was glaring at something outside, the tall blonde man was still cursing and adding even MORE water to the stew mixture and the red headed girl was peeking at him from around a corner. When he looked at her she gave off a strange 'eep' noise and disappeared completely from view. Somehow Naruto had abandoned him with a group of completely abnormal people.
The tall red haired man emerged from presumably the bathroom with only a towel wrapped around his waist. In one hand sat his filthy clothing. "Oi! Pretty boy? Don't suppose you know where they keep their dirty clothing?"
Shikamaru turned uninterested eyes to the strange man and felt an unconscious blush rise at his undressed state. It was going to be a long dinner.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Sasuke!" Naruto called happily as he bound down the hallway to the dark boy's room. "I'm home!" He threw the door open, preparing to meet with a moody Sasuke, but the room was empty. "Huh. That's weird." He shrugged, feeling a slight pain of disappointment. Part of him was very eager to see Sasuke again. He REALLY wanted to know what the Hokage said to him, too.
The door to his bedroom sprang open as Naruto started back down the stairs. A blue arm reached out and grabbed Naruto gruffly by the collar, dragging him into the dark room and pushing him down onto the bed. Then Sasuke was over him pulling up his shirt, hands gently tracing nonexistent lines on his stomach. Naruto felt a deep blush cover his face. He allowed himself to enjoy the touch monetarily before pushing the boy away. "What the hell's your problem, Sasuke-Bastard?"
"I want to hear it from your own mouth." The boy's usually unemotional face was lined with a mixture of worry, anger and something Naruto couldn't identify. "Tell me what you are! Tell me the truth!" The words came out as something of a mix between a hiss and a scream, his hands grabbing Naruto's arm and squeezing harshly.
A deep empty feeling started welling up in the blonde's chest. They were getting so close before and now... It was like a wall was being raised between them and he was sure the truth would only make that wall even more impassable, but Sasuke would find out eventually anyway, on way or another. "I am Uzumaki Naruto. Twelve year old Ninja of Konoha; father of Tenmar, Uzu, Ganten and Mina; husband of the deceased Haruno Illia; Brother of Tagen, Aki and Kentaar; half-fox." He sighed, not daring to look at Sasuke as the words poured from his mouth. "That is what the inner me, the mirror of my true self reflected back to me when I asked that question. I didn't destroy the village twelve years ago, though! I would do anything to protect Konoha, even then!" He added the last part venomously.
Sasuke stood for a moment staring at the boy. He was torn between wanting to laugh and wanting to run away. He settled instead for staring deeply at the blonde, a strange feeling developing in him. "So you... you really ARE the fox... And they are really your children."
Naruto nodded, empty feeling growing. He would have to tell Sasuke the whole truth, and the sooner the better. "There is one more thing." He fidgeted with the corner of the blanket he was sitting on, not looking up at the other boy. "My younger brother, Kentaar... He was really angry when I married Illia. He wanted her for himself, you see. And well... He..." Naruto could feel his face contort in anger as he thought about Kentaar, but he forced himself to continue on, still refusing to look up. In barely a whisper he continued, "He killed her. He attacked the village disguised as me, when I came to fight him I was sealed instead of him. He thought I was dead, but now... Now he knows I'm alive. He's been haunting my dreams, and he wants to destroy everything I care about. He knows everything about me, including what I- WHO I care the most about." Naruto's blue eyes forced themselves up to stare into the dark depths of Sasuke's. "You're not safe. If I thought leaving would help, I would, but either way he wants his revenge and..." He trailed off, loosing himself in the darkness for a moment. Shaking his head, he returned his gaze to the blanket, finishing lamely. "And I'd feel better if I could be nearby to keep my eyes on you and Sakura and everyone."
Sasuke sat for a moment, watching Naruto toy with the corner of the blanket. For a terrifying moment he thought Naruto was going to declare his undying love for him. Why did he feel that slight pain of disappointment when Naruto mentioned Sakura? Why did he hate it when eyes softened when he said 'Illia?' Why was he so upset about having the four newcomers stay at his place? It certainty wasn't because he lacked the room, and it couldn't be because he craved solitude or he would have asked the Hokage to find a new place for them AND Naruto. And WHY was this person before him the only person that made him feel anything besides anger, pain or annoyance?
Pushing the questions aside, he placed a smirk on his face. "Dobe."
Naruto looked up, the simple word causing a feeling far stronger than simple joy, "Don't call me dobe, bastard!"
Ignoring the boy Sasuke continued, "It'd take more than some stupid family member of yours to kill me." He placed his hand on Naruto's shoulder, forcing the blonde to look at him.
Feeling a smile form on his lips Naruto replied, "It better, because you can't die until you admit that I'm stronger than you, bastard."
"Then I guess I'm never going to die, dobe."
As the banter passed between the two they unconsciously moved closer together, and now Naruto noticed in surprise that his face was amazingly close to Sasuke's. The dark haired boy really was beautiful when he smiled, Naruto realized, chewing on his lower lip. He raised his hand slightly to Sasuke's face, gently touching the pale cheek.
Sasuke's hand, which had been resting on Naruto's shoulder, moved up slightly, brushing the nape of the blonde's neck. His hair was so soft, so close. It was like he was mesmerized. He moved closer, all thought fleeing from his mind as the blonde moved in slightly as well. Now Sasuke could feel Naruto's breath gently mixing with his own, their faces were barely an inch apart and they were getting closer, closer...
"Did I come at a bad time?" A third voice sounded from the doorway, causing both boys to jump away from each other in surprise.
"Uzu!" Naruto called out, trying to make his voice sound cheerful. "What are you- I mean, we were just-"
"Ah..." Uzu cut his young father off with a wave, shaking his head. "I just came to tell you that there's a Mina look alike here to see you and Tenmar says if we don't eat soon the stew won't be any good." Winking at both boys he added, "Not that it'll be any good anyway, Tenmar got it into his head to 'improve' upon it, and he's... Well, let's just say that his imagination gets pretty crazy when it comes to spicing up food. AND Ganten seems to have stolen your pretty friend, Shikamaru, and is forcing him to play go with him." The tall red head turned his back on both boys, waving his hand as he walked away. "Anyway, come down when you're done!"
Naruto and Sasuke were left staring dumbly at each other. Remember what they were about to do they both glanced away, blushing brightly. "Anyway, I'll head down now and greet Sakura-chan! Please don't tell her anything about who everyone is and stuff, OK? I don't want everyone to know..." Naruto dashed out of the room, leaving a befuddled Sasuke alone.
What... Was he just about to KISS Naruto? Sasuke raised a hand to his lips, feeling a silly grin forming on them. He quickly wiped the smile away, but he couldn't erase the light feeling in his heart. This was going to be a problem, wasn't it?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Psychic King: *coughing and waving at readers*
Naruto: *Translating* What she's trying to say is, was that enough shonen- ai for you?
Sasuke: *Grabbing Psychic King and shaking* WHY? WHY'D that IDIOT have to come in right then??????????
Psychic King: *coughing some more, waving Sasuke off*
Naruto: *Translating* She says we're still young, and we'll have plenty of time to make out later.
Psychic King: *coughing some more*
Naruto: *Translating* And anyway, if we kiss before we tell each other that we have feelings for each other we may start doing rash things.
Psychic King: *cough COUGH*
Naruto: *STILL Translating* Like you marrying Sakura.
Sasuke: *Looking away* I would NOT!
Uzu: *cracking knuckles* WHAT did you just call me, little lord Sasuke? *takes menacing steps forward*
Naruto: *jumping between them* Now, now, Uzu... You know the old Hag's rule about not killing each other!
Psychic King: *Coughing and waving*
Naruto: *Stepping aside, and sighing, Translating* She said it's OK as long as you don't hurt him too much. And not in the face!
Sasuke: *glares at Psychic King, then takes off*
Uzu: *Jumps after Sasuke, grinning* No problem, not in the face, got it.
Sakura: *from off screen* AAAAAAARGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!
Psychic King: *wobbles quickly off stage, coughing quietly and waving*
Naruto: *nods*
Sakura: *Grabbing Naruto by the collar* WHERE IS SHE???
Naruto: *wiggling out of her grasp, Translating* She said her cold took a sudden turn for the worse and she needed to take a nap. She's not to be disturbed.
Psychic King: *from off stage, coughing*
Naruto: *Translating* BUT, if you or any of her readers have any adoration or comments or even problems you can e-mail them to her at Psychic_King@hotmail.com OR leave her a review! She REALLY likes getting reviews. She thinks if she get lots of reviews she'll get better faster.
Sakura: *stomps away* Oh, I've got an e-mail for HER then...
Tenmar: *walking up to Naruto* Is Psychic King-sama feeling better? I wanted to ask her when I'm going to get a nice REALATIONSHIP developing moment with Iruka-san... *sighs, stars in eyes*
Naruto: Um... Well, she's not feeling well, and she doesn't want to be interrupted, but I REALLY don't think that she's gonna let you get Iruka- sensei. I mean... She REALLY likes Kakashi.
Tenmar: *pondering* But if she LIKES him then why doesn't she write herself into the story and have him marry her?
Naruto: *shaking head* don't ask me how her sick mind works!
Psychic King: *coughing from off stage*
Naruto: *turning slightly green* GROSS! Don't tell me about things like that, you sick-o voyeur!
Tenmar: *Backing away slightly* So she's like THAT... *walks away muttering* I can work with that... I just gotta appeal to her optically...
Naruto*stumbles off screen, blushing and muttering about perverts*
Psychic King: *sneaking on stage, glancing back and forth making sure no one notices, talking to the readers* Anyway, sorry that the action was kept out, but I'm not in a condition to think about fighting right now! My cold isn't as bad as I let THEM think (I'm addicted to Ganten's chicken soup...), but I'm still suffering, sadly... Anyway, please review and let me know what you all think! Next chapter hopefully will come before the end of the weekend, but may not be until more like Tuesday. Please review! *looking around, creeps back into her room*
Ganten: *stalking on stage with a steamy bowl of soup and tosses it into Psychic King's room* Here. *stalks away*
Sakura: *walking by, noticing Psychic King* Psychic King-sama! WHAT are you doing out of bed? I told you no writing until you're feeling better!
Psychic King: *Backing away, coughing desperately* I don't wanna be in bed any more!
Sakura: *grabbing hold of Psychic King's collar* Oh no you don't, young lady!
Psychic King: *struggling and coughing* I'b not young! I'b older than you! A lod older!
Sakura: Ganten! She's trying to escape!
Ganten: *walking up, holding a hand on the still struggling Psychic King's forehead* Hum... It should be OK of she doesn't over exert herself.
Psychic King: *Glares triumphantly at Sakura for a moment then falls into a fight of coughing* I'b good! I'b good. *looking at the readers, eyes and nose running* Anybay... Blease enjoy this chabter. *waddling off screen* I'b gonna go lay down...
Sakura: *shaking head and glaring at Ganten* HOW could you let her write another chapter- I mean, get out of bed? She's obviously not well. She didn't even remember to tell the readers that she finally bought the rights to the series and is going to have Sasuke and I get married next episode!
Sasuke: *suddenly appearing, growling at Sakura* She didn't and I wouldn't.
Sakura: *pouting* Fine! So she DOESN'T own Naruto or any of us! And if she did she would never let me marry you, but a girl can dream, right?
Naruto: *walks on screen from Psychic King's bed room* Yeah, the old hag just wanted me to come out here and apologize to the readers for the lack of fighting in this chapter, but she hopes that a good dose of Shonen-ai will make up for it. *shrugs, walking up to Sasuke* Wonder what she meant?
Sasuke: Don't know, I haven't read the chapter yet.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Embrace of Solitude
Chapter10
Naruto paced suspiciously in front of the Hokage's office as he waited for Tenmar to emerge. As soon as they returned to Konoha a group of Ninja that Naruto didn't even recognize quickly and quietly escorted them to the Hokage's waiting room. Normally when Naruto was taken there for trouble making he would be forced to wait under stiff guard for at least an hour, but this time they were escorted right into the waiting room, and those waiting were told to leave. Naruto could feel cold glares on his back and short whispers of, "Looks who's causing trouble AGAIN." And, "It figures. It's HIM."
Soon after the room was cleared Kakashi and Iruka were called in, followed by Sasuke. Each went in and left without a word, although Sasuke did send a long glare Naruto's way before stalking out of the room. Following that Tenmar was called in and now Naruto was left alone in the room with Ganten, Uzu and Mina.
"What's taking SO LONG?" Uzu whined, voicing Naruto's own thoughts. He jumped up from his seat again, looking out the window before glancing back at Naruto. "I was going to wait until later to say anything, but... What's with these people? Are they all insolent or just ignorant?"
"What do you mean?" Naruto turned inquisitive eyes to the tall young man.
"The way they keep looking at you and the things they SAY!" Uzu let out a low whistle. "Man, it took all I had not to teach a few of them manners. Bastards." He spit on the carpeted floor of the office.
Naruto shrugged, folding his arms behind his head. "Nah, they ain't so bad once you get to know them. Most of 'em anyway. They just don't know any better. That's why one day I'm gonna FORCE 'em to pay attention to me and recognize my strength." He smiled in his innocent way.
Uzu grinned back, Naruto's excitement seeping into him. "That's awesome! I want to help!" The two identically placed their hands on their hips and began laughing.
"Annoying!" Ganten's sharp voice snapped over the laughing.
Naruto stopped cold, feeling slightly ashamed, but Uzu stuck out his tong, throwing his arm around Naruto's shoulder. "You're just jealous because Da- Naruto-sama and I are better than you."
"Naruto-sama isn't the problem." Ganten said through clenched teeth, jumping to his feet.
"Yeah? You got a problem with me LITTLE brother?" Uzu's hand dropped from Naruto's shoulders, body falling into a fighting stance.
"And if I do?" Ganten started circling Uzu slowly, eyes narrowed. "Are you hiding behind Naruto-sama, BIG brother? Are you that scared of what I can do to you?"
For a moment Naruto thought that the two were going to actually kill each other right there in the Hokage's waiting room. The moment passed quickly as Uzu's face broke into a huge, playful smile and Naruto saw for the first time Ganten's face break into a relaxed smile as well. "Hum?" Naruto looked from one to the other, confused. "What was THAT? Aren't you two going to kill each other now?"
Even Mina was looking blankly back at Naruto. "Kill each other?" Ganten repeated, slightly confused. "WHY would we seriously want to hurt each other? We're all we have; neither of us could destroy that by raising a hand against the other in anger. I mean, we were just playing. It was something YOU taught us; never take one another for granted, never raise your hand in anger against one another. When we get really mad at one another we usually have to have a family meeting, headed by Tenmar, who somehow NEVER gets angry." Ganten sighed, Naruto could hear a bit of annoyance creeping into his voice. "The last time Uzu hit me we were... Around 10."
Uzu laughed. "Yeah, you were such a little brat, you deserved all those beatings I gave you!"
A sudden rush of appreciation for Tenmar welled over Naruto. Not only had he started raising three siblings when he was eight all by himself, but he had done a good job of it, too.
The door to the Hokage's office opened, the Hokage and Tenmar walked out, smiling and talking. The Hokage turned to Naruto. "Naruto." Tenmar gave the boy an encouraging smile as Naruto walked past him and into the Hokage's office. He could hear Uzu raising his voice in a question as the door clicked shut.
Naruto looked around the Hokage's office in surprise. Normally when he spoke to the Hokage there were various Ninja and scribes running around doing various things. This was perhaps the first time that he was truly alone with the man. He grinned up at the man, folding his hands behind his head. "What's up?"
The old man shook his head. "Naruto... Even when you're not trying you cause a lot of problems..." He situated himself behind his desk, folding his hands in front of his mouth. "I have heard your story four or five times since you disappeared from various sources, and I do not need to hear it again. I do know that it appears that this town has done a grave injustice to both you and your... children. I have already spoken to Tenmar about that, now, as for you... I'm afraid all I have to offer you is the heartfelt apologies of an old man. The people's opinions are not bond to change even when the truth reaches them. Although I love these people I HAVE lived among them long enough to know of their stubbornness."
Naruto's smile grew a bit as the Hokage paused and he waved his hands dismissingly. "I've spent my whole life making them recognize me. I don't even want them to know the truth; it'd take some of the challenge away. Anyway, I can only imagine having to explain myself to everyone a millions times over." He rolled his eyes, but his attitude remained light and good natured.
"Are you certain?"
The blonde head nodded eagerly. "Unless Tenmar and the others insist on everyone knowing."
The Hokage shook his head in reply, small smirk forming on his lips. "No, he said something... similar. I guess you two really do think alike." His face straitened. "I have also been informed that there is someone most likely coming after you."
Naruto's face also sobered. "Yeah. That's possible. Kentaar... Just let me say good bye to Sakura-chan and the other-"
"That won't be necessary." The Hokage cut in, holding up a hand. "Even if some of the town wouldn't agree with me, you ARE a valuable citizen of this town and we do NOT throw our citizens out to the wolves, so to speak. Go back to the Uchiha mansion; some temporary arrangements have been made for Tenmar, Uzu, Ganten and Mina with more permanent arrangements to be made when this whole mess is sorted out between you and your brother."
"But what-" Naruto started only to be cut off again.
"I'll let them explain what their roles will be in the community their selves. I've had a long night and am eager for some rest, so if that's all?" The Hokage had stopped looking at Naruto before he began speaking, and was shuffling some papers around his desk, an air of finality hung in the air.
All the blonde could think of doing in reply was giving the Hokage a quick hug before dashing out of the room, "Thank you!"
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The first place he could think to go was Sasuke's house; he wanted to know what the Hokage said to the other boy, and with any luck that would be where Tenmar and the others went to find him. He rushed down his favorite places in town, grinning at people he knew as he passed by. Never before had he felt so at home rushing through the streets.
"Oi! Naruto, slow down!"
The voice reached the blonde's ears and he skidded to a halt. "Shikamaru!"
Shikamaru rolled his eyes and sighed in exasperation. "Geeze, you don't have to yell." He fell into pace next to Naruto as the blonde continued on his bounding way towards Sasuke's house. "I heard that some sort of crap happened after the party at Sasuke's house."
Naruto nodded, "Yeah, but it's all taken care of now." Suddenly the party felt like a different lifetime ago.
This seemed like enough of an answer for Shikamaru, who nodded then continued on, "So, are you guys participating?"
"In what?"
"In what?" Shikamaru mimicked. "In the Chuunin exam. Really! Talking to you is a waste of my time, isn't it? I heard that all of us rookies were recommended, so I assume that you and Sasuke are going to enter it, right?"
For a moment Naruto completely stopped walking, he stood in the middle of the street in stunned silence, then he turned to Shikamaru with a sheepish grin. "I forgot all about that!"
The spiky haired by just shook his head in stunned silence. "What ever happened must have been pretty amazing to make YOU forget about the exams."
The two rounded the corner, starting the walk down Sasuke's walkway wrapped in conversation about the upcoming exam. "Oi! Sasuke, I'm home!" The blonde called as he walked into the kitchen entrance of the humongous house.
"Welcome home Naruto-sama!" Tenmar called, from behind a large pot on the stove.
"Tenmar?" An incredulous tone crept into Naruto's voice. "What are YOU doing here?"
"As Sasuke-kun insisted when we arrived, I'm 'making myself useful.'" Tenmar's body appeared from around the pot. "Not that I cooked this! I'm just keeping my eye on it as Sasuke-kun requested. I don't believe I've met your friend."
"Uh, yeah! Shikamaru, this is Tenmar he's my..." Naruto trailed off.
"Relative. My siblings and I just moved to Konoha and Naruto-kun is the only family we have, so Sasuke-kun was gracious enough to allow us to stay here with Naruto-sama for the time being." Tenmar reached a hand out.
Accepting the hand Shikamaru replied, "It's nice to meet yo-" His words were drowned out by a long string of cursing from outside.
"Uzu!" Tenmar barked, face going from pleasant to demonic in one second flat. "WHAT is your problem? I'm talking to Naruto-sama!"
"Yay!" Uzu bound into the house, covered from head to toe in dirt and grime. "Naruto-sama's home! How was talking to the old man?" He glanced at Shikamaru. "Oh! We have a guest!" He grinned and leaned down so they were eye level. "Hey, I'm Uzu."
"Shikamaru." The spiky haired boy backed away a little. It would be annoying if this guy got his clothes dirty and he had to listen to his mother bitching.
"Ignore him, he's a moron." A cold collected voice spoke from behind the brunette. Shikamaru turned to stare at yet another strange boy with short white hair. "I'm Ganten." He pointed to the corner where a red head could ALMOST be seen. "That's Mina." Ganten turned to Tenmar. "Sasuke wants to know if the stew started to boil and if Naruto-sama was back."
Uzu's face went from open and happy to dark and angry in a flash. "That kid's got a real chip on his shoulder, you know? As soon as we arrived he showed us our rooms and locked himself up in his bed room." He sighed in disgust and stomped past Shikamaru and Naruto. "Well, if you'll excuse me, I have to wash myself before dinner. I'd hate to anger the great lord Sasuke." Sarcasm dripped like venom from his voice.
Tenmar took a moment to smile at his brother and then panic crossed his features. "Shit! The stew!" He ran back to the large pot and began quickly stirring it, frown deepening he began to mutter incoherently to himself as he added a little more water.
"Well, that's my family!" Naruto said happily to Shikamaru. "Hey! Why don't you stay for dinner? I gotta go see what stick crawled up Sasuke's a-" But he was already gone up the stairs and the remainder of his words were not heard.
Shikamaru sent a bored glance around the room and sighed. The white haired boy was glaring at something outside, the tall blonde man was still cursing and adding even MORE water to the stew mixture and the red headed girl was peeking at him from around a corner. When he looked at her she gave off a strange 'eep' noise and disappeared completely from view. Somehow Naruto had abandoned him with a group of completely abnormal people.
The tall red haired man emerged from presumably the bathroom with only a towel wrapped around his waist. In one hand sat his filthy clothing. "Oi! Pretty boy? Don't suppose you know where they keep their dirty clothing?"
Shikamaru turned uninterested eyes to the strange man and felt an unconscious blush rise at his undressed state. It was going to be a long dinner.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"Sasuke!" Naruto called happily as he bound down the hallway to the dark boy's room. "I'm home!" He threw the door open, preparing to meet with a moody Sasuke, but the room was empty. "Huh. That's weird." He shrugged, feeling a slight pain of disappointment. Part of him was very eager to see Sasuke again. He REALLY wanted to know what the Hokage said to him, too.
The door to his bedroom sprang open as Naruto started back down the stairs. A blue arm reached out and grabbed Naruto gruffly by the collar, dragging him into the dark room and pushing him down onto the bed. Then Sasuke was over him pulling up his shirt, hands gently tracing nonexistent lines on his stomach. Naruto felt a deep blush cover his face. He allowed himself to enjoy the touch monetarily before pushing the boy away. "What the hell's your problem, Sasuke-Bastard?"
"I want to hear it from your own mouth." The boy's usually unemotional face was lined with a mixture of worry, anger and something Naruto couldn't identify. "Tell me what you are! Tell me the truth!" The words came out as something of a mix between a hiss and a scream, his hands grabbing Naruto's arm and squeezing harshly.
A deep empty feeling started welling up in the blonde's chest. They were getting so close before and now... It was like a wall was being raised between them and he was sure the truth would only make that wall even more impassable, but Sasuke would find out eventually anyway, on way or another. "I am Uzumaki Naruto. Twelve year old Ninja of Konoha; father of Tenmar, Uzu, Ganten and Mina; husband of the deceased Haruno Illia; Brother of Tagen, Aki and Kentaar; half-fox." He sighed, not daring to look at Sasuke as the words poured from his mouth. "That is what the inner me, the mirror of my true self reflected back to me when I asked that question. I didn't destroy the village twelve years ago, though! I would do anything to protect Konoha, even then!" He added the last part venomously.
Sasuke stood for a moment staring at the boy. He was torn between wanting to laugh and wanting to run away. He settled instead for staring deeply at the blonde, a strange feeling developing in him. "So you... you really ARE the fox... And they are really your children."
Naruto nodded, empty feeling growing. He would have to tell Sasuke the whole truth, and the sooner the better. "There is one more thing." He fidgeted with the corner of the blanket he was sitting on, not looking up at the other boy. "My younger brother, Kentaar... He was really angry when I married Illia. He wanted her for himself, you see. And well... He..." Naruto could feel his face contort in anger as he thought about Kentaar, but he forced himself to continue on, still refusing to look up. In barely a whisper he continued, "He killed her. He attacked the village disguised as me, when I came to fight him I was sealed instead of him. He thought I was dead, but now... Now he knows I'm alive. He's been haunting my dreams, and he wants to destroy everything I care about. He knows everything about me, including what I- WHO I care the most about." Naruto's blue eyes forced themselves up to stare into the dark depths of Sasuke's. "You're not safe. If I thought leaving would help, I would, but either way he wants his revenge and..." He trailed off, loosing himself in the darkness for a moment. Shaking his head, he returned his gaze to the blanket, finishing lamely. "And I'd feel better if I could be nearby to keep my eyes on you and Sakura and everyone."
Sasuke sat for a moment, watching Naruto toy with the corner of the blanket. For a terrifying moment he thought Naruto was going to declare his undying love for him. Why did he feel that slight pain of disappointment when Naruto mentioned Sakura? Why did he hate it when eyes softened when he said 'Illia?' Why was he so upset about having the four newcomers stay at his place? It certainty wasn't because he lacked the room, and it couldn't be because he craved solitude or he would have asked the Hokage to find a new place for them AND Naruto. And WHY was this person before him the only person that made him feel anything besides anger, pain or annoyance?
Pushing the questions aside, he placed a smirk on his face. "Dobe."
Naruto looked up, the simple word causing a feeling far stronger than simple joy, "Don't call me dobe, bastard!"
Ignoring the boy Sasuke continued, "It'd take more than some stupid family member of yours to kill me." He placed his hand on Naruto's shoulder, forcing the blonde to look at him.
Feeling a smile form on his lips Naruto replied, "It better, because you can't die until you admit that I'm stronger than you, bastard."
"Then I guess I'm never going to die, dobe."
As the banter passed between the two they unconsciously moved closer together, and now Naruto noticed in surprise that his face was amazingly close to Sasuke's. The dark haired boy really was beautiful when he smiled, Naruto realized, chewing on his lower lip. He raised his hand slightly to Sasuke's face, gently touching the pale cheek.
Sasuke's hand, which had been resting on Naruto's shoulder, moved up slightly, brushing the nape of the blonde's neck. His hair was so soft, so close. It was like he was mesmerized. He moved closer, all thought fleeing from his mind as the blonde moved in slightly as well. Now Sasuke could feel Naruto's breath gently mixing with his own, their faces were barely an inch apart and they were getting closer, closer...
"Did I come at a bad time?" A third voice sounded from the doorway, causing both boys to jump away from each other in surprise.
"Uzu!" Naruto called out, trying to make his voice sound cheerful. "What are you- I mean, we were just-"
"Ah..." Uzu cut his young father off with a wave, shaking his head. "I just came to tell you that there's a Mina look alike here to see you and Tenmar says if we don't eat soon the stew won't be any good." Winking at both boys he added, "Not that it'll be any good anyway, Tenmar got it into his head to 'improve' upon it, and he's... Well, let's just say that his imagination gets pretty crazy when it comes to spicing up food. AND Ganten seems to have stolen your pretty friend, Shikamaru, and is forcing him to play go with him." The tall red head turned his back on both boys, waving his hand as he walked away. "Anyway, come down when you're done!"
Naruto and Sasuke were left staring dumbly at each other. Remember what they were about to do they both glanced away, blushing brightly. "Anyway, I'll head down now and greet Sakura-chan! Please don't tell her anything about who everyone is and stuff, OK? I don't want everyone to know..." Naruto dashed out of the room, leaving a befuddled Sasuke alone.
What... Was he just about to KISS Naruto? Sasuke raised a hand to his lips, feeling a silly grin forming on them. He quickly wiped the smile away, but he couldn't erase the light feeling in his heart. This was going to be a problem, wasn't it?
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Psychic King: *coughing and waving at readers*
Naruto: *Translating* What she's trying to say is, was that enough shonen- ai for you?
Sasuke: *Grabbing Psychic King and shaking* WHY? WHY'D that IDIOT have to come in right then??????????
Psychic King: *coughing some more, waving Sasuke off*
Naruto: *Translating* She says we're still young, and we'll have plenty of time to make out later.
Psychic King: *coughing some more*
Naruto: *Translating* And anyway, if we kiss before we tell each other that we have feelings for each other we may start doing rash things.
Psychic King: *cough COUGH*
Naruto: *STILL Translating* Like you marrying Sakura.
Sasuke: *Looking away* I would NOT!
Uzu: *cracking knuckles* WHAT did you just call me, little lord Sasuke? *takes menacing steps forward*
Naruto: *jumping between them* Now, now, Uzu... You know the old Hag's rule about not killing each other!
Psychic King: *Coughing and waving*
Naruto: *Stepping aside, and sighing, Translating* She said it's OK as long as you don't hurt him too much. And not in the face!
Sasuke: *glares at Psychic King, then takes off*
Uzu: *Jumps after Sasuke, grinning* No problem, not in the face, got it.
Sakura: *from off screen* AAAAAAARGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!
Psychic King: *wobbles quickly off stage, coughing quietly and waving*
Naruto: *nods*
Sakura: *Grabbing Naruto by the collar* WHERE IS SHE???
Naruto: *wiggling out of her grasp, Translating* She said her cold took a sudden turn for the worse and she needed to take a nap. She's not to be disturbed.
Psychic King: *from off stage, coughing*
Naruto: *Translating* BUT, if you or any of her readers have any adoration or comments or even problems you can e-mail them to her at Psychic_King@hotmail.com OR leave her a review! She REALLY likes getting reviews. She thinks if she get lots of reviews she'll get better faster.
Sakura: *stomps away* Oh, I've got an e-mail for HER then...
Tenmar: *walking up to Naruto* Is Psychic King-sama feeling better? I wanted to ask her when I'm going to get a nice REALATIONSHIP developing moment with Iruka-san... *sighs, stars in eyes*
Naruto: Um... Well, she's not feeling well, and she doesn't want to be interrupted, but I REALLY don't think that she's gonna let you get Iruka- sensei. I mean... She REALLY likes Kakashi.
Tenmar: *pondering* But if she LIKES him then why doesn't she write herself into the story and have him marry her?
Naruto: *shaking head* don't ask me how her sick mind works!
Psychic King: *coughing from off stage*
Naruto: *turning slightly green* GROSS! Don't tell me about things like that, you sick-o voyeur!
Tenmar: *Backing away slightly* So she's like THAT... *walks away muttering* I can work with that... I just gotta appeal to her optically...
Naruto*stumbles off screen, blushing and muttering about perverts*
Psychic King: *sneaking on stage, glancing back and forth making sure no one notices, talking to the readers* Anyway, sorry that the action was kept out, but I'm not in a condition to think about fighting right now! My cold isn't as bad as I let THEM think (I'm addicted to Ganten's chicken soup...), but I'm still suffering, sadly... Anyway, please review and let me know what you all think! Next chapter hopefully will come before the end of the weekend, but may not be until more like Tuesday. Please review! *looking around, creeps back into her room*
Ganten: *stalking on stage with a steamy bowl of soup and tosses it into Psychic King's room* Here. *stalks away*