DOWNFALL OF THE LIGHT 2

Chapter 6: Missing in Action

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto, I have no ownership of Warcraft3 either. It's as simple as that, if you have something against it... it's not in my department to even care or consider what you are thinking.

Legend:

"...": Speech

'...': Thoughts

Scene changes will be displayed in bolded italic brackets.

AN: I will cut the long talks I usually post in this section this time. Also, there will be a change of plans for this part of the AN would be a specific Reviewer's Question and Answer Period, where I, OpposingForce, will answer your questions (if any) directly. If I have answered your questions personally, then I won't need to answer them. If your questions are practically asking me 'Can I expect this and this' or questions that would result in me spoiling it for everyone, don't expect me to respond. After this, it's straight to the chapter!

1. Hikaru of Arrow: (Check if you don't remember your question)

OpForce's reply: Naruto, a member of the Akatsuki? Yo, are you telling me to send him to his death sentence early? The organization wants his demon for crying out loud, why would he become a member? Besides, mystikd109 is working on a fic like that so I don't want to make a story that turns out a bit similar to his. You will see what I am going to do with our favorite Death Knight.

2. Dragon Man 180:

OpForce's answer: You ever read Nineteen Eight Four by George Orwell? There are three quotes in there that I based on the crazy amount of chakra Orochimaru had. War is peace, freedom is slavery and ignorance is strength. When one is ignorant, that equals to power and strength. For your second question, the main character isn't Tsunade and I am very tired of action. If you know me, my strength isn't within action, it's drama and romance, so I intended to avoid it. If you thought Tsunade's fight contained much importance, well, when you make your own story you can be as descriptive as you want.

3. jasx316:

OpForce's response: I have to say those are very good ideas especially the stages of the Metamorphosis, I didn't even consider it since they remind me of that treacherous Sasuke and his curse seal. Going to hell and come back, if he's in hell, he would be in hell forever my friend. He doesn't need the Metamorphosis to corrupt his blood anymore, his blood after that transformation made it into 90 percent demonic and 10 percent human. In addition, it can't be reversed. About your ideas, I may follow part of it but the actual plan would be a lot more surprising than it seems.

4. Jacob Kessler:

OpposingForce's retort: I am not the most clean person myself believe it or not. Like, c'mon, who is that innocent these days anyway? It's most likely I would be adding a lemon scene or whatnot in future chapters since in a matter of chapters, the genins would be grown up teenagers. It's not like the fact I don't like lemon, it's just that I have a hard time writing it. For your questions, yes, Naruto is nearly a complete demon and yes, if he does make love to Hinata and have children, the kids are half demon, half human. What would his blood do to Hinata? I may stick with immortality and the girl becomes partially demon.

5. lil uchiha bunny:

OpposingForce's reasoning: Wow, isn't Hinata really loyal for searching for him, but haven't you thought of that that is just too predictable if I followed it. Besides, I made him fell into the river for a reason, if she successfully finds him, man, what's the point of suspense? Thanks for giving your opinions, I do appreciate it but if I followed it... it just wouldn't be that appealing.

6. This is actually everyone's question.... Is Naruto dead?

My reply: If I told you, where is the drama and intensifying anxiety? Just keep on reading to find out.

Thank you for those who reviewed! If Dream Walker is reading this, I still want to say this volume is dedicated to him. If you reviewed, your names will be listed here: One Azn Dragon, Qazicle, Crutches, jasx316, Jacob Kessler, DaveBoo 1378, RNPH, Daniel of Lorien, Hikaru of Arrow, Night-Owl 123, Dragon Man 180, Place-your-name-here, stoictimer, AkiaBinZaid, anonymous, nArUtOhInAtA fOrEvEr, joekool, hyuugaman, RuByMoOn17, greyfox885, blazer6, evilmustardman, cynical chaos, Gopu, Thanatos Upbringing, kimeno-pebols, violently cheerful and lil uchiha bunny!

AN: Let the story continue...

(Days later in a hospital after the encounter with Orochimaru)

Her eyes were heavy, possibly even sticky somehow. She didn't recall what happened just now or even what events passed by when she was out. Not that she cared actually, reality was just too much for her soft, tender heart to handle. As the girl opened her eyes fully, a rushing sense of searing sorrow consumed her heart. Finally, she understood why her eyes had been sticky, her tears practically glued her eyelids together while she slept. More of it drifted out of her eyes as she remembered what she witnessed the last time she was conscious, she wouldn't forget the weary smile he gave before he fell into the river, he seemed regretful toward something, what pained her most was that he wasn't by his side. His death gave her the most fear imaginable, in a natural impulse she simply cried out loud.

She began to cry again, curling herself into a ball to form an indirect barrier to push anyone who attempted to approach her. She continued to wail louder with despair, her heart continued to ache not willing to ease at all. How could she at a time like this, it wasn't easy to overcome a death of her only love. As the girl took a glance over at the table, both her clothing and weapon holsters were there. (AN: She's wearing hospital clothing so she isn't naked, okay?) Her lavender eyes never left the kunai that was sticking out from the holster, the longer she focussed on it, the more her mind began to race. A sense of agony never departed, the pain refused to cease, the will to live no longer remained knowing her love was gone. Not even realizing that her body was moving beyond her will, in a matter of moments, her hand held possession of the weapon. She stole another glimpse at it with emotionless eyes with clear sorrow, not even considering her actions, she pointed the kunai right at her heart.

"Goodbye..." said the girl like a dead person as she was about to plow the blade into her flesh.

"Sister!" shouted a younger girl as she rushed in trying to stop the attempting to commit suicide shinobi.

"Hinata-sama," shouted Neji as he grabbed her cousin's wrist and held her in a lock. Sensing pain in her arm, she reluctantly dropped the weapon she was holding the ground. Despite the pain, Hinata violently retaliated while summoning strength that Hanabi and Neji never sensed before. Her brutality was filled with deep despair, the two Hyugas couldn't help but feel sorry for her. "Hinata-sama, get a hold of yourself... what's gotten into you?"

"Naruto-kun..." screamed Hinata still struggling against the hold that Neji gave. "Naruto-kun is gone! He's gone and what the point in living anymore! He promised me that he would return to me and now..."

"Does that mean you should just give up on yourself, onee-chan?" asked Hanabi trying to calm her sister down, however it was much easier said than done.

"I love him... I have no reason to live if he isn't here!"

"You lived your life whether he was here or not for nearly 8 years..." said Neji rather bluntly. "What difference does it make if he isn't here now..." Hanabi gasped at the words that escaped the male Hyuga's mouth, at that moment, Hinata lost it.

"I saw him die in front of my eyes!" screamed the heiress at the top of her lungs with absolute fury. "Who are you to tell me that I shouldn't be sad? Who are you to tell me that how I should continue living my life? You bastard! Don't touch me! Get your hands off of me!"

"I won't if you don't calm down!" retorted Neji.

"Sister..." said Hanabi as she began to help her older cousin. She was incredibly surprised how strong physically Hinata really was. As far as she could remember, she was the one that surpassed her sister but right now she was no longer certain. Hanabi banished that thought immediately knowing getting her sister back on track was much more important, it pained her to see Hinata like this.

"Let go of me, let me die!" shouted Hinata demandingly.

"Do you really want to die?" asked Neji attempting to use reverse psychology, Hanabi's eyes widened in disbelief since she was too young to realize it immediately. "If you do, I won't stop you." As soon as he loosened his grip, Hinata simply fell on the ground and cried. Seeing that she no longer would advance on planning to suicide, Neji and Hanabi kneeled beside her and gave her a soft hug. When Hinata felt their care, she immediately hugged them both while continuing to cry.

"It's okay, onee-chan..." Hanabi comforted as she tightened her embrace with her only sister.

"It feels so painful..." Hinata whimpered with sadness. Neji grimaced at that, it reminded him about how he took his father's death. He may not have saw the process of the death but nonetheless it was painful. He understood the Hyuga heiress' pain, what worried him was that how would Hinata live life from now on.

"It's okay," said Neji caressing her back softly. "There, there... everything is going to be fine..." The heiress shook her head in his chest, Neji didn't have the heart to blame her, that was how he behaved when Hinata tried to comfort him nearly 10 years ago.

"Neji-ni-san..." said Hinata as less tears escaped her eyes. "How did I get here?"

"Two women brought you back here..." said Neji. "The blond one said that she was the 5th Hokage of Konoha."

"A woman being a Hokage?" asked Hanabi surprised.

"Yeah..." replied Hinata.

"Is that the reason why you left Konoha?" asked Neji. "Were you given the mission to look for the 5th Hokage?"

"No..."

"Then who is?" asked Hanabi. "Is it Naruto-oni-chan?" The Hyuga heiress nodded sadly.

"I don't want to talk about that right now..." Hinata stated silently. "I'm sure Tsunade-chan or Shizune-chan would explain everything later..." Despite how much the duo wanted to figure out more of the situation, it was only reasonable for the girl to have her space. When Neji saw Tsunade and Shizune enter the village but Naruto wasn't along with them, he figured out something was amiss, he didn't expect that the news would ever turn out to be this tragic. "Neji-ni-san, Hanabi... can you two give me another hug?"

"Sure thing." Immediately, Hinata attached herself in another warm embrace from her family. She sighed and cried once again. Her cries soon ached both Neji and Hanabi as well, it was a difficult to imagine how simple people just come and go. This must've devastated Hinata. As the three Hyugas remained in that embrace, all three knew deep down their lives will no longer be the same.

(Morning of 2 days later)

Based on the current circumstances, it was no surprise to Neji or the little Hanabi that Hinata refused to eat anything ever since she woke up yesterday afternoon. Her emotions had been unpredictable but nothing too reckless was performed. At times, Hanabi would see her older sister cry to herself and the next second she would be hugging Neji as if her life depended on it. Neji didn't refuse her touch, he would sacrifice enough things in order to see her cousin smile again, of course it was no easy task seeing how much she lost that day. He was starting to worry if Hinata would ever smile like she used to, what a devastating blow to her memories and cherishing moments, Neji cursed the person who did this to Naruto, he sworn he would seek vengeance for Naruto but most importantly for Hinata.

"Neji-ni-san!" When the Hyuga boy heard this cry, he intercepted it with readiness knowing Hinata wanted another hug. She fell into his arms crying again and didn't stop until a several minutes later.

"It's okay, Hinata-sama..." Neji said with reassurance. "Everything is going to be alright."

"I can't stop thinking about him..." she said with a few tears leaving her eyes.

"Hinata-sama, even though Naruto is no longer here, it wouldn't help if you continue to cry like this. It's only natural to grieve someone that you love but at the same time you have to think about why they died for you."

"Why they died for me?"

"Yes, I am sure that Naruto must've sacrificed his life for a reason."

"Naruto-kun was always so kind to people..." Hinata said blindly with a short sniff. "He may look like a very cold hearted boy but deep down he's such a loving person... he never let anyone down in circumstance. I don't understand why it's so unfair... why is fate so cruel and always want to take him away from me? Why... why..."

"He must've believed that saving your life was worth it, you mustn't make his sacrifice to be in vain. It's because he gave up his life for you that you have to make use of it to the fullest."

"How can I enjoy life without him?"

"Naruto would want you to live happily without despair, Hinata-sama, he didn't want his life to be cut short like that either, if he had another solution I guarantee that he would try to make things right." In truth, the Hyuga male didn't know the entire story of what actually took place, he used his best knowledge to make the best out of this, the last thing he wanted to see was Hinata in tears.

"It's so painful to not have Naruto-kun around me anymore... I loved him so much..."

"I know you did, Hinata-sama," whispered Neji silently to her ear and tried to comfort the girl in depression. "I also know he cared for you just as much."

"Neji-ni-san, why do horrible things happen to the greatest people? Why?"

"I want to know too... I am just as lost as you are."

"I want to see him again..." Hinata told him in a very heartbroken voice.

"I know you do, Hinata-sama... even I do... He may not be here with us physically, he will always be in our hearts. Come now, don't cry anymore."

"Thank you... Neji-ni-san."

(Later that day in the Hokage's office)

Tsunade certainly didn't waste her time in getting things running within such a short amount of time, on the day she returned to Konoha with Shizune, the sannin quickly proposed a meeting to formally announce the current situation of the Death Knight, Naruto. Her return wasn't known to much people, only the two guards, Hyuga Neji, Jiraiya, Hyuga Hiashi and the counsel held this knowledge. When Jiraiya finally saw Tsunade again, the slug sannin was extremely surprised when the sennin didn't even react perverted in any way. His eyes were dead serious, not to mention his first question completely took off her guard.

It obviously didn't take a genius to figure out how dumbly Tsunade replied to the question on the whereabouts of Naruto. A pang of guilt struck her mind immediately for she no longer had any face to meet Jiraiya's. For someone who had known Tsunade for such a long time, the sennin clearly knew something terrible happened during his absence. The next thing that happened made Jiraiya completely halt in his tracks, Tsunade was crying. Being a gentleman and a friend, the only rational action he took was to be by his friend's side trying his best to relieve her. After some difficulty of relieving the emotional pain, mustering up all the strength she could spare, the blond woman told him everything.

Jiraiya's face was lifeless when she declared that Naruto was MIA, also known as Mission in Action. Even though this meant the person had the possibility of living, who in the right mind would think of something that optimistically? His face was drained, soon it turned to both regret and sorrow. By the angry expression Jiraiya was showing, Tsunade safely assumed that her friend was blaming himself completely for this loss. He took it too lightly, his thoughts were crystal clear to Tsunade, he should've went with him and this would have never happened. However, as soon as Tsunade mentioned the offer Orochimaru given her earlier and considered of accepting it, Jiraiya did the unbelievable, he slapped her. He, the Jiraiya who was the master at the art of being a pervert, slapped the female sannin.

At that point, the woman didn't know what hurt more, the slap or the disappointed look on Jiraiya's face. She had to admit, she did yell at Jiraiya a lot in the past for not raising Rin and Naruto in the way that she wanted him to, also beating the crap out of him whenever he claimed the opportunities to look at other women, but this, was completely different. It was even worse than how she rejected Jiraiya on a date long ago, he might've been disappointed but not cold. Jiraiya didn't even say a word after that, those cold eyes of his gave Tsunade a very clear message of how he felt. In that slap, anyone could safely assume that he did it because of the mixed emotions he had earlier and hearing the name Orochimaru only increased the amount of rage within himself. True, that was very true but if you deemed that was the only reason, you have only scratched the surface.

Believe it or not, Jiraiya was a man of wisdom in most miraculous ways. Yes, it was rare that he performed it but it was clearly better than the wisdom to be wasted and replaced by stupidity. For knowing both Tsunade and Orochimaru for so long, he accurately assumed that Orochimaru must've made a tempting offer of some kind to get his way. When he didn't, he would make it up with force. Orochimaru was always like that, even when he was a kid. Of course, he would make cute threats before such as to get free ice cream from Jiraiya when he wanted to since if he didn't, he would use Jiraiya peeking at Tsunade changing in her undergarments as blackmail. It wasn't too surprising that Orochimaru became a spoiled brat in the near future, genius or not a genius. That kind of offering stunts was predictable was what really pushed Jiraiya to the edge was Tsunade's action towards it. Knowing Naruto's capabilities, the search certainly did not need to take over 10 days. The only possibility that the sennin could predict was that Tsunade actually intended to put Orochimaru's words into consideration, after what that bastard had done to the Third, he couldn't believe Tsunade would be that incredibly foolish.

Still holding her slapped cheek with emotional hurt, Tsunade's mind was currently in utter mess. Without even looking at her, Jiraiya demanded her to make Naruto's current whereabouts to the genins. Knowing Hinata, she would spread the word sooner or later. Jiraiya sighed knowing at least the Hyuga girl was alive, the last thing Konoha needed now was for the noble bloodline of the Byakugan to in the possession of spies and enemies. However, he began to worry about the other bloodline that may be in jeopardy, the last of the Uzumaki legacy. Knowing he was considered to be MIA, there was a chance that he could be alive, who knew what was happening, he just prayed that nothing would go on.

(Moments Later)

During that afternoon, all the important genins of Konoha were present in the Hokage building lounge. The genins present were Hyuga Hinata, Hyuga Neji, Gaara, Kamishiro Rin, Uchiha Sasuke, Haruno Sakura, Rock Lee, Katase Tenten, Yamanaka Ino, Nara Shikamaru, Aburame Shino, Inuzuka Kiba and Akimichi Chouji. As expected, Hinata sat on the couch alone attempting to hide herself from everything and everyone. Neji grimaced from afar, he just felt so powerless to make a difference. However, when Sakura and Sasuke encountered the Hyuga heiress she had no choice but to talk.

"Hinata-san," greeted Sakura as she hugged her best friend. Despite what happened in the past, she was still so relieved to see her friend back in one piece. Sasuke on the other hand showed no emotion whatsoever, he was more interested to know where the Death Knight was, Sakura told him that Hinata went with him on a mission. If he knew Naruto and Hinata, the Hyuga girl would never leave his side not even if was an order by force, talk about dramatic irony. "I'm so glad you're okay."

"I'm... fine..." said Hinata trying not to cry. The Uchiha easily pierced through her like glass for he heard that tone of voice a long time ago. "How are you... Sasuke-kun..."

"I'm more interested in knowing where Naruto is, Hinata," declared Sasuke with a solemn face. "I want you to tell me where that treacherous guy is in this instant." To his surprise, Hinata simply avoided his gaze with a bitter look.

"I rather not talk about it right now, Sasuke-kun," replied Hinata in a sad hiss. "I wish to be left alone if you don't mind."

"Hinata-san," said Sakura now worried, she tightened her friendly embrace trying to make her friend feel better. "Did something happen to Naruto-ni-chan?"

"Sakura-san... I really wish to be left alone. I'll tell you about it later."

"No, you are going to tell me about it right now," commanded Sasuke as he pushed Sakura aside and stood right above Hinata. The Haruno girl gasped at this, her Sasuke never acted this rudely to her or Hinata before. Those eyes of his were filled with ice-cold rage, the pupils soon revealed a pair of flashing Sharingan with much killing intent. As he glared fiercely at the heiress, once again he was somewhat stunned to see those lifeless lavender eyes that showed no sign of anything, she was like a dead woman walking. Observing her closely, both of them could see tears leaking out of those pearl like eyes and Hinata didn't even seem to notice they were falling. Sasuke was clearly lost and began to show some concern.

"Hinata-san, what's the matter?" asked the pink hair girl now very afraid. "Why are you crying, c'mon, you can tell me about it, I'll help you." Without warning, the Hyuga girl did what her heart told her to do, she simply let it all out. Sasuke's brow raised a bit at that wave of sadness emotions, like Sakura, he was curious to figure out what had happened when Hinata was absent. The duo tried to talk but Hinata refused to say anything, it didn't bother them though, they knew she would come through.

About a several minutes later, the conference room doors opened to reveal two people. Hinata and Neji recognized one of them was Tsunade, the other person beside her was no other than Jiraiya. Their gloomy expressions certainly brought down the mood in the room, it was no surprise to Hinata and Neji when they were the ones in the room who contained intelligence of the tragic news. The sannins entrance was silent and possibly giving off an non welcoming aura as well, the genins knew better, keeping their mouth shut until further notice was the best strategy for the time being.

"Good afternoon," greeted Tsunade with a solemn face, for a Hokage this type of formality was required in such meetings. "My name is Tsunade and some of you already know who I am. As of yesterday, I officially became the 5th Hokage of Konoha." The teens gasped at this news given to them, it was a bit hard to swallow since this was the very first woman who claimed the title of the Hokage. Hinata showed no reaction while Rin gave off a very proud smile. Little did she know, that smile of hers would soon turn into a frown of despair.

"Hokage-sama," called Shikamaru lazily. "What is the real reason for all of us to be summoned here? On a day like this, I prefer to sleep in than to spend my time standing here like an idiot."

"Shika!" snapped Ino as she jabbed him lightly but good enough to make him stop. "She's the Hokage, give some respect!"

"I did call her Hokage-sama, Ino," retorted the lazy genin. "Besides, I really do want to sleep."

"You are so impossible!"

"What is this meeting about anyway?" asked the usually quiet Shino.

"Yeah, why isn't Naruto-kun here?" added Lee. That was not expected for Tsunade and Hinata's heart pained a bit more hearing that name. If Lee or anyone in this room mentioned his name again, Hinata was certain that she would break down.

"That's what Tsunade-sama and I need to tell all of you..." explained Jiraiya trying to avoid the look Rin was giving him, he knew how emotional she could get when she didn't know what had happened to her dearest big brother. The unknown, yes, it was the reason to our fear. Think about it closely, why do we treat strangers badly? Why do we not commit suicide after something horrible had happened? It was because we didn't know the result and outcome that made us stop at whatever plans we had. If we knew the true intention of a stranger whether good or bad, we would easily make a decision instead of being hostile to them until they earned our trust. If we knew that the life after death was a marvelous place with no troubles, why the hell were we still here living our lives with pain and misery? We would easily take a weapon of any choice and deal major self-inflicting damage until our heart no longer pumped blood into our system. Whatever was unknown to man made us fear it since we didn't know what kind of potential dangers they may possess.

"What happened to Naruto-ni-san?" asked Rin in a hurry. "Sensei, please tell me what happened!"

"Before I tell you all... promise us that you would remain calm when you hear this."

"Uzumaki Naruto... is now placed in the MIA category." Tsunade finished with a sad tone.

"MIA?" asked Sasuke.

"Missing in Action, Uchiha-san. That means we can't confirm whether he's dead or alive." The genins immediately gasped except for the two Hyugas.

"What happened, tell me, what happened to Naruto?"

"How did this happen?" asked Sakura hurriedly. "The last time I saw him he was still perfectly fine!"

"Is ni-san dead?" asked Rin now really wanting to cry. Gaara grimaced hearing this news, for the first time in many years, he actually felt remorse for a death. Now he was beginning to understand how a human death could actually impact one's life, regrettably, he used to take others' lives as mere play things. "It can't be, ni-san can't be dead!"

"I know it's really hard on all of you whether he was a close friend to you or not," said Tsunade with much hidden grief. "I didn't want this to happen either... I... I wanted him to return to Konoha in one piece... Damn, I feel so powerless..."

"Hokage-sama," said Lee. "How did this happen to begin with?"

"How did this mission turn into this?" asked Gaara now annoyed but not at anyone in this room.

"What mission?" asked Tenten confused.

"I sent Naruto alone on a confidential search and receive mission," explained Jiraiya trying to keep a solid face, he himself took quite a blow at the dreadful news. "The task was to search for the 5th Hokage, Tsunade-sama. I told him not to tell anybody for it was wise for him to complete this mission as quickly as possible. I didn't know how Sasuke, Hinata and Sakura even figured out he had left Konoha but I was surprised that the trio actually tailed him. However, what shocked me was that Hinata actually stayed by Naruto's side during the entire mission with Sakura and Sasuke returning without her."

"I can't believe that you sided with a traitor, Hinata-san." Sasuke stated rudely.

"He's not a traitor!" growled the Hokage with authority. "And don't you even dare consider Naruto in such category, you hear me?"

"Not trying to disrespect you or anything, Hokage-sama, I saw him standing with Uchiha Ita..."

"We are not here to discuss about that matter, Uchiha-san. I suggest you talk about this when this meeting is over." Sasuke gave a sharp glare with much anger but controlled it with a deep sigh.

"Fine." He muttered cursing under his breath.

"But is Naruto dead?" asked Shikamaru.

"Let me finish," said Tsunade. "I will answer all of your questions in the best of my ability later..."

(Time passes and Tsunade explained the event as precise as she possibly could)

"Damn it..." cursed Gaara forming a fist. "I should've went with him..."

"I can't believe this has happened..." said Rin now crying on Gaara's shoulder. "No... ni-san couldn't have died... he's too strong to allow it to happen..."

"I'll kill that Orochimaru for killing Naruto..." said Lee forming a determined fist with rage. "He didn't deserve such a fate."

"If we were just a bit stronger," stated Neji in an upset voice. "We would've made a difference."

"What could we have possibly done, Neji-kun?" asked Tenten holding his hand with one her own and leaning her head on his shoulder. She didn't know Naruto that exceptionally well but it didn't take a smart person to figure out he was a kind person, losing someone like that was certainly uncalled for. "Tell me."

"I don't know... I really wish I do."

"Why didn't you send any one of us along to watch his back?" asked Kiba to Jiraiya and Tsunade. "We would've made sure that he would get his sorry ass back here in one piece!"

"Kiba, don't say anything that you aren't sure of," said Shino calmly.

"What are you saying? If I tagged along with him, I'm sure he would be fine!"

"Naruto won't need your assistance," said Sasuke with an irritated look. "He's good enough to deal with things on his own. Any one of us might've proved to be a nuisance..."

"If we went, I'm sure all of us would've been killed," said Ino. "But it's so painful to see Naruto-kun no longer with us... he did so much for us during the exam... if it wasn't for him, all of us wouldn't be here right now." Hinata silently agreed with Ino for it was the truth, she thanked Naruto for all he had done for Konoha, for her friends and most importantly for her. Up to this point, her heart continued to pang for the lost of her beloved, he was the only person she would ever love and her feelings now was shattered like glass.

"Will there be a funeral for Naruto-kun?" asked Hinata finally speaking for the first time in the past hour. "I want to make it very special for him..."

"I don't think we should decide on that yet," said Jiraiya. "There is a reason why we put him on the MIA list instead of classifying him in the dead category."

"What do you mean by that, Jiraiya-sama?" questioned Sakura with confusion.

"This is the reason of my judgement." Jiraiya then took out something from a cupboard on the wall and presented to the genins. All the genins gasped at the sight in unison. "This was one of the things the Anbu platoons managed to retrieve near the river."

"That's..."

"Naruto-kun's..."

"That's ni-san's runeblade..."

"But... what's so special about it anyway?" asked Lee confused. A sudden realization hit Jiraiya and Tsunade, they nearly forgot that no one besides Hinata, Rin and Gaara knew about Naruto's bloodstained heritage as a Death Knight. Knowing he couldn't avoid that question, Jiraiya decided to explain it using simpler terms but not necessarily telling them about the demon within.

"This weapon..." began Jiraiya with a slight cough. "Isn't just any ordinary blade for it's made completely with chakra."

"With chakra?" asked Tenten impressed. "That's pretty amazing."

"No wonder Naruto could execute jutsus using that blade." added Neji with a smirk.

"What does this have to do with the fact Naruto is alive though?" asked Shikamaru, while thinking of any possible logic.

"I'll say this, this is made by Naruto's chakra." At that moment, most of the genins gasped with stun. "If Naruto's chakra signature is no longer living, this weapon would disappear with him." Jiraiya smiled inwardly, he couldn't believe that he made a stunt like that to fool the teens. In truth, he knew that Naruto didn't have the ability to forge such weapons with his own chakra, it was Kyubi who granted Nightshadow to him when he was 6. However, his words were partially true to a certain extent for if Naruto honestly died, Nightshadow would cease to exist since Kyubi would die with the boy.

"That means Naruto-kun is alive?" asked a very hopeful Hinata.

"I knew ni-san would come through!" added Rin excitedly.

"Don't put your hopes too high though," said Tsunade suddenly. "He might be alive but he may be hanging on by a mere thread. We don't even know how he is right now or his whereabouts, we still have to consider him as MIA."

"I know that, Tsunade," Jiraiya said with a bit of irritation. "But don't be so pessimistic now, we have to hope for the best."

"I suggest that we have search teams to look for him." Hinata said nearly immediately with faith.

"Yeah," said Neji supporting her cousin completely. "Naruto has done too much for all of us, it's only rational as friends to help him out."

"Count me in." said Sakura with a smile. "Sasuke-kun, are you in?"

"Count me out." The Uchiha declared coldly. The rest of the gang stared at him with disbelief, what the heck was he saying? "I refuse to help a traitor who associates himself with Uchiha Itachi. If he's a friend of that bastard, you can count me out." At that point, Tsunade was enraged.

"You want to know the truth?" growled the slug sannin angrily. "Come on, Uchiha Sasuke, do you want to or not?" The genins were taken quite aback at that outburst. Seeing that expression on Tsunade's face, Rin took the correct precautions and took Gaara's hand to leave the room. Noticing that action, the other genins other than Sasuke followed her suit nearly immediately, an angry Tsunade was a dangerous Tsunade, Rin witnessed it herself when she was younger. As the doors closed, Sasuke finally reverted his attention the Hokage.

"So, are you ready to tell me the entire thing now?" asked the Uchiha.

"Yes, you may also ask any questions that are in your mind."

"Anything?"

"Just ask ahead."

"Just who is Naruto anyway?" Both Jiraiya and Tsunade's brow raised a bit at that question. "Why is he associated with Uchiha Itachi? Why aren't any of you even fearing that name and most importantly not taking any action when he had made an appearance? Why aren't you considering Uzumaki Naruto a traitor for having any sort of relation with a mass murderer like him? What the hell is going on here!"

"One question at a time, okay?"

"You have to calm down a bit." Jiraiya added quietly.

"How do you expect me to calm down after taking in all this kind of crap? Am I the only the person who is actually worried about this situation here? This is Uchiha Itachi we are talking about here, we have no time to be sitting on our butts!"

"Uchiha Itachi won't be doing anything to this village."

"A citizen of Konoha would never do such a thing." Tsunade stated calmly.

"You tedious fools still consider a murderer like him a person that is welcomed in Konoha? If I recall correctly, nearly 6 years ago the Uchiha clan suffered a case of genocide!"

"Don't worry, we remember."

"It's just that you don't know the truth behind it."

"The truth?" asked Sasuke harshly. "What truth is there? My brother just wiped them all out! He's the one why I have no one to love and rely on anymore! All this loneliness is caused by him!"

"I'm sure that you will hate us for telling you this... but the Uchiha clan was wiped out by an order."

"An order?" The Uchiha was now in rage. "Just what the hell is that supposed to mean? The 3rd ordered my brother to wipe out my clan? What kind of prejudice is this? Is it because of our Sharingan the 3rd is afraid of us?"

"Just be quiet and listen!" shouted Tsunade. "It appears that you don't even know what kind of trickery your older clan members were doing since you were so young back then. Let me ask you, Sasuke, do you know what kind of career your father and the clan work in this village?"

"Our entire clan worked as the police force to serve Konoha," said the young Uchiha promptly. "Everybody knows that but what does this have to do with anything?"

"What's your opinion towards police in general?" Sasuke blinked a few times, at this point, the raven hair Uchiha was confused, he had absolutely no idea what this question was getting to but this was the Hokage after all, he might as well answer her truthfully.

"I think the police... well... I suppose they are honest people who try their best to protect the place they live. That's what they are supposed to do."

"You think so? If that's the case, don't you think the clan would be still here right now so our amount of ninjas wouldn't be so tight all the time?"

"Maybe you guys think the Uchiha clan wasn't good enough... then you bastards killed them due to the fact you people believed they were useless!"

"You are a naïve one," said Tsunade with a grin. "Do you seriously expect the 3rd would do something that immoral to people just because they weren't good enough? Trust me, I have met plenty of people who weren't good enough in certain tasks but I didn't kill them. Now, if they weren't meeting the village's expectations, he could've simply replaced them, not execute them."

"Then why?"

"The police force in any country contains much information about a lot of things that a normal civilian may not have in their grasp. It's that your clan had been doing a lot of these underground activities that led Konoha in jeopardy many times. Do you even the history of your Sharingan?"

"My Sharingan? No... I really have no idea..."

"I will tell you, it originated from the Hyuga family."

"Hinata-san's bloodline? But how..."

"I personally don't know the details myself since I am not a Uchiha or Hyuga. However, I know that your blood limit nearly rivalled with the Hyuga family's, yet your clan wasn't considered to be noble. Feared, yes definitely but when it came to nobility, no one considered it to be. Your father was a jealous person, I will be very honest with you on that, he wanted the Uchiha clan to be the noble clan that represented Konoha. The 3rd obviously felt otherwise and disclosed his terms without hesitation. Your father was also a very persistent man, if he didn't get things his way through the legal way, he would take it to his terms which were most likely illegal."

"What did my father do?" asked Sasuke now paying close attention.

"Isn't it obvious? He made plans to exterminate the Hyuga clan."

"What!"

"Now you are feeling outraged? The Uchiha clan agreed to this idea but they decided to take things slowly. At that time, you should be around 5. Let me ask you, Sasuke, do you know what their first plan was?"

"I really don't know..."

"Their first target was the little Hyuga heiress."

"No way! That's not possible!" Sasuke practically yelled in disbelief. Without knowing, his eyes were wide and twitching with fury.

"Not only that, your clan was a very cunning and cold hearted, instead of killing Hinata first, they decided to play with her heart. Furthermore, your family hired many people from this village to do their dirty work. In addition, your father clearly knew Hinata had a good friend, so he decided to kill him first to make a devastating impact to the girl and soon the physical torture. Talk about a devilish bastard."

"How could father... do this? Damn... is that friend of hers Naruto?"

"You're correct."

"Then what happened?"

"Naruto managed to survive," said Tsunade. "All the men who attacked Naruto that night were executed by a direct order from the 3rd."

"Wait, when I was 5... that's around the time Naruto left right? Hinata-san told me enough about him in the past... Am I correct though?"

"Naruto left the village after that," said Jiraiya who had been quiet for some time. "I have been his guardian for the past nearly 8 years."

"So that's why Naruto left all of a sudden..." Sasuke whispered to himself with understanding. "Damn, father... how could you do this... but, why was Itachi..."

"Itachi was older than you after all, he had the maturity to understand the entire situation while you thought your family was doing things like they were supposed to be doing. You see, Itachi never agreed to the idea to execute the Hyuga clan, he personally found it pointless to have such a sense of foolish rivalry for nobility especially when the Hyugas had nothing against them."

"Don't the Hyugas feel a bit agitated to have their ability stolen and turned into something else? If I was them, I would feel outraged."

"It's only reasonable to feel that way," said Tsunade. "Yes, indeed the Hyugas did feel betrayed and angry for this but they never had the intention of wiping your clan out because of that, whether they liked it or not, they just had to accept the facts that this happened. Believe me, they were the first to drop the prejudice. Back to Itachi, I will tell you that his feelings towards his family soon turned into absolute hatred when an incident happened."

"What is that?"

"Like mentioned before, your clan were a bunch of cunning bastards who take careful steps before getting the main prey. What they tried to do was to eliminate the toughest shinobis that the Hyuga clan possessed first so the primary revolt would go smoother for their favor. One night, the Uchihas sent out a platoon to kill an Anbu, he happened to be a Hyuga and more importantly, he was Itachi's best friend."

"Why would they do such a thing?!" Sasuke was now furious hearing this. "How... Why?"

"Hyuga Kunio, like Itachi, became an Anbu at the age of 13. Not only that, they graduated from the academy in the same year with exceptional results, they were very well known for their talents. It wasn't surprising that Itachi was enraged when he heard the tragic news of Kunio's death, he swore that he would achieve justice for this loss. He knew his clan was behind all of this but it drove him to his limits when he found out something else."

"What could that be?"

"He found out his father hired other mercenaries from other countries and planned to smug them into Konoha. Of course, these men were hired to aid them on the invasion to the Hyuga headquarters. Itachi reported this to Hokage-sama immediately and it wasn't long when the 3rd issued the order to wipe out the Uchiha clan."

"Why didn't he just choose to imprison them?"

"We don't have a prison of that size to keep an entire family clan, besides the Uchihas have done too much damage to the village by taking these unforgivable actions. We no longer wanted them here and their greed would only prove to be a threat in the future, to prevent any more meaningless lives being wasted, Itachi agreed to kill anyone who was associated with the act to overthrow the Hyuga clan. Unfortunately... you were the only one who didn't."

"So... Itachi killed the entire clan because of that reason..."

"Yes, soon he was sent out of the village working as an undercover," continued the slug sannin. "He teamed up with a member in the Mist and joined an organization, he informed us of his condition and info so we made sure we were always kept in touch."

"Then what is his relation with Naruto?" asked Sasuke wanting a reply.

"Itachi met with Jiraiya, Naruto and Rin when they were 7. Of course, Rin and Naruto both looked up to Itachi like a big brother they never had. Naruto calls Itachi sempai." Sasuke immediately jerked back hearing that, this was just too much for him to swallow all at once, it was no wonder why Naruto was so powerful if he was trained under Uchiha Itachi. Now, he didn't know if he truly hated his brother for doing that, if Hinata was killed by his family, he wasn't sure what he would do. If he knew himself, he probably would do the same thing and seek vengeance.

"I... I don't know what to say..." said Sasuke nearly babbling.

"How do you feel, Sasuke?" asked Tsunade kindly with a sincere smile.

"I feel guilty... for accusing Naruto and my brother like that... This really wasn't what I expected to hear, I feel so angry at myself for being such a naïve idiot."

"Don't blame yourself for something you can't control," Jiraiya said in an encouraging voice. "As long as you will never have a heart to do such heartless things, Itachi is glad that you are alive. Believe me, Itachi is very proud of you."

"He is?"

"I won't lie."

"Is there anything else that you want to know, Sasuke?" asked Tsunade.

"No... there isn't... if you don't mind, may I take my leave?"

"You may, I hope to see you again." With that, the young Uchiha took a slight bow and headed out of the Hokage's office with a guilty expression on his face. He felt so lost, so confused, he had been living such a foolish life for so long, one that shouldn't have been like this. Was he too slow to realize the meaning behind it? Was he too blind to notice what the real world was like and how people were never what they seem to be? Letting out a depressed sigh, Sasuke didn't know whether he felt easier knowing the truth, hearing it made him so tilted in life as if his main purpose of living was forcefully torn away from him. What would he possibly do now, he knew that planning to get stronger for killing his brother was something incredibly foolish. Somehow, an image of Sakura appeared in his mind, when he focussed her caring smile, his lips formed a genuine grin, at that moment he immediately changed his goal in life and pledged to protect the ones that he cared about. He would be stronger for Sakura so another important person in her life didn't have to be taken from her ever again. Once a smile was on Sasuke's face, he finally exited the Hokge's building no longer having any worries other than Naruto's death.

(An important scene change... I don't know what the scenario is, okay?)

A several days after the news of the death of Uzumaki Naruto was spread, the Hyuga family organized a very private funeral for the Death Knight. All the genins and instructors who got to know Naruto attended. Hinata tried not to cry for her loved one but unfortunately she just couldn't hold it in. Rin and Sakura grieved deeply for their big brother, Gaara and Sasuke certainly felt guilty for this due to their own reasons. As for the rest, no explanation would be needed. The sky was nearly just as dreary as the Third's funeral, to Hinata, this had to be the worst day ever in her life, she so deeply wanted to see Naruto again, she would just possibly do anything.

Hyuga Hinata dedicated herself to strive for becoming stronger for the sake of the village shortly later on, but more importantly she wanted to be powerful for her Naruto. Knowing her talent in medicine, the Hyuga girl began to enhance her abilities in that field to become useful in both the medic field and the combat field. Even though Naruto was no longer here to support her, she knew he would be very proud of her wherever he was. With a few practices with the actual hands on training, Haku had to admit that Hinata was a natural in this field, her knowledge of the Rejuvenation technique definitely served the medics very well. Several months later, the chunnin exam was around the corner once again, this time, she was determined to earn that chunnin title. Her father and Neji were both very proud of her when she claimed the title a month after the exam officially started. Unlike her cousin Neji who wanted to become a member of the Anbu at the age of 14, she continued as a chunnin and a part time Medic nin. Indeed, she had become a very useful shinobi who was frequently requested to join on B ranked missions, sometimes even Anbu squads would ask her to come since her combat skills were exceptional. Neji urged her to take on the next step and apply for the jounin exam but the girl kindly rejected until there was a need for it. For those who wondered how her private life had been since, she was single and often grieved for her lost lover. Every once a month, she would go on a search mission hoping to find news of Naruto but unfortunately, she hadn't found a thing up to this date.

Haruno Sakura, like Hinata, also participated in the upcoming exam. Being at the age of nearly 14, Sakura just couldn't allow this opportunity come to waste not after their previous one that was disrupted before the final matches. Still grieving for her cut short relationship with her brother, Sakura managed to summon enough courage to pass the exam and gained the rank of chunnin. However, she was more of a strategist rather than a soldier who fought up in the front line, she knew her strengths and weaknesses well. Even so, she didn't simply ignore it for she wanted to become stronger both physically and mentally. Her intelligence certainly rivaled with the lazy chunnin Shikamaru who earned the title six months earlier than she did. She did feel kind of jealous when only Sasuke, Neji, Rock Lee and Shikamaru claimed these titles soon after the funeral of Naruto, but of course she no longer cared now since she had this rank as well. Her relationship with Sasuke had been going very well but she still mourned over Naruto often, up to this day she believed his lost was most unfair and unjust.

The former number one rookie, Uchiha Sasuke, was a chunnin at the age of 13. It was clear that he was glad to earn such a position at such a young age, yet, he didn't feel complete. Following in his brother's footsteps, Sasuke decided to abandon the chunnin title and took on the Anbu examination along with Hyuga Neji, Kamishiro Rin and Rock Lee. Sakura obviously yelled at him for doing something like that without thinking what he would possibly do if he failed the exam. His rebuttal was that because his career was on the line, he couldn't afford to fail it. Miraculously, the Uchiha managed to earn that rank along with Neji and Lee. When Sakura heard this wonderful news, she madly kissed him and then socking him hard in the ribs for making such a reckless stunt. Nowadays, he continued to train stronger for the sake of the future of Konoha, himself and Sakura, nothing would stand in his way in achieving that goal.

As for Kamishiro Rin, Hyuga Neji and Rock Lee, they became Anbu members of Konoha along with Uchiha Sasuke with exceptional skills. Rin's life with Gaara had be really calm and careful since Gaara was just like Naruto in many ways, he liked doing things safe and never go beyond his reach. It was a rare quality nowadays, normally many guys would just have a relationship and then have sex when they believe they were ready. Gaara reminded Rin a lot about her lost brother, sometimes she would just break down and cry for she missed him so much as of this day, it was only natural. Gaara's feelings toward the whole thing remained much the same, believing that it was his fault that Naruto was no longer here, he just wished that he went along with him so all of this could been avoided. Pain was something inevitable, misery was optional and what continued to annoy him was that his death could've been prevented. Like the genins, Gaara pursued the title of chunnin on the exam right after his first. Without interruptions, he easily achieved it but his communications skills still needed work, somehow he predicted that Rin would be teaching him a lot about that department sometime in the near future.

Hyuga Neji, Katase Tenten and Rock Lee had been doing very well, Tenten was extremely proud of her boyfriend when she heard that he achieved the position of Anbu. What shocked her was that Lee was able to claim it as well, she wondered if Lee's stubbornness towards the rivalry against Neji really pushed him over his limits this time, no matter, she was happy for her good friend. As for herself, she became a chunnin 12 months after the incident of Naruto because she felt she wasn't ready for something that major. Neji was shocked at her major improvement, he couldn't believe that Tenten had specially trained in taijutsu during the past year, when he witnessed her movements during a spar, he was nearly caught off guard. A ninja with both long and short range capabilities wasn't someone that anybody would want to deal with, Neji certainly was no exception. Lee had matured of course but he still 'worshiped' his mentor Maito Gai. Luckily for Neji and Tenten, Lee's hyper attitude had decreased over these years, they didn't know whether Lee figured out he looked really foolish at times or he simply grown out of it. Regardless, this was a very good change. (AN: I will not explain the others since they aren't as important as these people in this story, don't worry, I will explain their status later on. Furthermore, I didn't describe their physical features on purpose, it will be explained in detail next chapter.)

(I would be pretty evil if I ended here) (38 months later after the tragic loss of Uzumaki Naruto, the month is December. Somewhere in the borderline of Konoha)

"Konoha..." said a young mysterious male figure in a dark cloak reading at the first couple lines of the letter he was holding. "I wonder what kind of tasks they need me for."

"Are you sure you want to pledge your service in this village?" asked another figure also in a dark cloak but with a hat to cover his eyes, his voice clearly sounded older than the previous male. "You do know your status."

"Don't worry about it," assured the first male. "I am a Hidden-nin, I am supposed to aid every village in the best of my ability to achieve prosperity. They have been asking for a person such as myself for a year or so, it's only rational that I should check it out at least."

"Even so... they have a Hidden nin in that village too, you don't have to be one who steps in and take the load."

"If they have enough people, they won't be asking for assistance now would they?"

"You are always so determined after you make a decision," said the cloaked man with the hat. "How long do you intend to stay there though?"

"It would depend on what missions they require me to accomplish," answered the Hidden-nin. "Don't give me that look, I will be fine."

"I seriously do hope so."

"You worry too much, sempai, I am not a little kid anymore. Anyway, it's getting dark already, I better register myself in the Hokage's office before the night arrives. I hate doing things in the broad daylight."

"So you're going?"

"Yeah."

"Good luck man."

"Same goes to you."

"You better be careful."

"I will, it's not like the fact that I want them to know who I am." At that moment, the younger male turned to his friend with his eyes suddenly radiating a deadly teal colour.

"Hey, don't start using those eyes towards me."

"Sorry, Itachi-sempai, you were basically telling me to."

"Get out of here, you!" he said shoving him away playfully like a brother.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm going."

(Scene Change)

After a short farewell, the younger male leaped down from his position and approached the West Gate of Konoha to be granted with a proper access within the village. The last thing he wanted to do was to make any sort of illegal entry.

"Hey," called a guard. "Who are you? What are you doing here at a time like this?"

"Good evening, sir," addressed the Hidden-nin politely.

"Who may you be? Do you have any identification?"

"Of course," He then handed the guard his status card and the letter he was reading before. As the guard read both things, his eyebrows raised a bit with surprise.

"You are a Hidden-nin," said the watcher impressed. "Who would've thought that a person with that much skill was still just a kid. Man, kids these days never cease to surprise me. So you are appointed by Hokage-sama?"

"Yeah, I am. Mind if you tell me where the Hokage's office is?" The Hidden-nin smiled inwardly at his own question, why did he need to ask that, it wasn't like the fact he didn't know where it was.

"It's the 5 story red building over there." The guard answered with a smile pointing at the northeast direction. "Will you know how to get there? You need me to take you there?"

"Don't trouble yourself for me," replied the young male kindly. "I will get there myself."

"As you wish."

(Moments later in the Hokage's office)

"Tsunade-sama," called Shizune from behind the doors.

"What is it, Shizune?" asked Tsunade with a slight yawn, she cursed herself for falling asleep just now.

"There is someone outside who wants to see you."

"Who is it?"

"He said that he's a Hidden-nin." Tsunade's eyes widened immediately hearing that news, her mind went from nearly dead to wide awake and ready to move.

"Send him in, please."

"I understand." Shizune then turned to the male who had been silent for a while. "Please, you may enter."

"Thank you," he said with a smile under his mask. Shizune smiled back before going back to do her own thing but didn't notice that the male was watching her retreating form. When she disappeared into the distance, the male finally entered the office. "You must be the Hokage, I suppose?"

"Yes, I am," said Tsunade with a grin. "Did you expect the Hokage to be a male?"

"It doesn't matter to me," said the Hidden nin honestly. "Both men and women have potential in this world, it's not anything shocking when I see a beautiful woman such as yourself in that position."

"You really are a sweet talker," said Tsunade amused chuckling. "But don't think because of that I would give you more money than you deserve."

"Oh, I wasn't thinking of that. Besides, I have to be good at BS or I wouldn't be standing up here looking that good doing it." It was then when the two highly skilled shinobis laughed. When Tsunade paid close attention to the mysterious stranger. When he took his right arm from beneath the cloak, she saw it was bandaged but something on his wrist caught her attention. A long army assassin army knife was equipped on his wrist, it seemed this nin was an assailant, her eyes showed much interest for she wanted to know how strong he was. What she noticed was how he seemed to be hiding himself in evry possible way, he was wearing a cloak, a face mask similar to Kakashi's, sunglasses as if he didn't want anyone to see his eyes and a headband to straighten his silver hair a bit more. Unfortunately, she couldn't see his legs but little did she know, he had a kunai holster on his right thigh and on his right hip, there was a gun holder containing a sidearm. Along his belt, he had plenty of knives used for either melee combat or throwing. When Tsunade took a glimpse at his head, she saw his hair was spiked in a coordinated fashion upward instead of a mob, he was tall and mysterious, she came to a conclusion that he was very handsome without even looking at his face. In truth, he was very good looking.

"What is your name?" asked Tsunade rather quickly. "I should refer to something other than just 'Hey you'."

"I am not obligated to give you my real name for I am not a member of this village. However, I will give you my code name. I am Aegis."

"Aegis? That's a pretty rare name..."

'That's why I chose it."

"Okay, Aegis-san, I would be giving you your missions right now if it wasn't the fact that it was already dark. Anyway, I want you to come back here at tomorrow morning at 9:30 to receive your mission briefings."

"I understand, Hokage-sama. If you need me, I would be in an inn nearby..."

"No you won't," said Tsunade cutting him off. Aegis was surprised at her words, he wondered what she wanted to say. "I have already got you a place to stay."

"You have?" asked Aegis jerking a bit. "I just got here though."

"In this village, we send Hidden-nins to stay in the most noble estate because we respect your status. We don't want you people to live in regular places."

"Please, Hokage-sama..." Aegis pleaded slightly. "There is no need for you to send me to a place like that... I prefer simple things."

"Don't worry, I insist." She then stood up from her spot and for the first time, he took a glance at her massive cleavage deliberately. His teal eyes underneath his sunglasses twitched immediately along with a sweatdrop.

'Okay...' said Aegis in his head drearily. 'Oba-chan's kimono is now even more low cut than the last one I saw he in... damn... I wonder if someone encouraged her to do this or she did it under her free will. I don't even know which is worse... Jiraiya-sensei, you better have not taken advantage of this.'

"Aegis-san, here is a map to get to the Hyuga estate." When he looked down at her, since he was 72 inches tall, to get the map, her extremely full sized revealing cleavage were within his vision, he immediately reverted somewhere else with a slight blush on his face. This didn't go unnoticed by Tsunade. 'Amongst every male that I have met, this is the very first person that avoids it intentionally. He surely does remind me of somebody.'

"Thank you, Hokage-sama," Aegis stated with a relieved voice. Deep down, he wasn't sure if he was grateful that he got the map or his eyes didn't have to look at those breasts. With a deep sigh he continued. "I'll be making my leave, I will see you in the morning." After taking a short bow with his eyes closed this time, he went out of the Hokage's office and headed to the Hyuga mansion. If he had his mask off, everyone would know he was frowning at this offer the entire time.

(Later at the Hyuga estate)

The Hidden-nin by the code name of Aegis finally entered the main gates of the noble Hyuga mansion, despite how much he didn't want to be here, if the Hokage ordered him to do so, he might as well follow it. As he ventured in to the hallways carefully, he couldn't help but feel somewhat uncomfortable, he couldn't grasp at what it was. Suddenly, a slide door opened and a hand made a grip on his shoulder. Aegis went on alert immediately but when he saw who the figure was, he quickly calmed down and gave a smile underneath his mask.

"You must the Hidden-nin that the Hokage was talking about," said the man who happened to be Hyuga Hiashi, the current Hyuga heir. "Please come in and have a seat." With a nod, Aegis did as he was told and sat on a cushion that Hiashi asked him to.

"I want to apologize for bothering you at this hour..." said Aegis apologetically. "I should've just went to an inn so you guys won't be so unprepared."

"Don't worry about it," assured Hiashi. "We are more than welcome to allow a young Hidden nin such as yourself to stay here. Ever since Tsunade-sama requested a person like you to help the village, we have been prepared."

"So I see."

"What is your name, I may ask?"

"Everyone calls me by my code name, Aegis."

"Do you have a real name?"

"Hidden nins aren't obligated to share personal info for they aren't ninjas of any country."

"Reasonable, I hope you would tell me one day."

"Yes... And what should I call you, Hyuga-sama? Or should I just stick with that?" It wasn't like the fact Aegis didn't know Hiashi's name, he simply played dumb. He had to admit that he was doing a pretty good job at fooling everyone.

"You can call me Hiashi."

"Okay, Hiashi-sama."

"Did you get lost before you came here? It sure took you quite a while."

"Yeah... lost..." Aegis mumbled rolling his eyes behind the shades. 'It's more like I didn't want to come here...'

"You seem to be tired," said Hiashi as he stood up. "You want me to take you to the room you would be staying in?"

"Sure thing." The two people then walked out of the living room and began to walk towards their destination. In two minutes, Hiashi stopped and opened another sliding door to reveal a very appealing guest-room, it was quite magnificent. Aegis, at this time, felt this was just too good for him.

"Hiashi-sama... I can't stay in a room like this..." said the young Hidden nin with humility.

"Don't worry," Hiashi said. "Please make yourself at home, okay?"

"This room is too good for me, I can still sleep in an inn..."

"No need to be so humble, Aegis-kun," said Hiashi as he pushed him in slightly. "You are our special visitor, it's the least I could do." With that, Hiashi turned the other way and returned to the direction he came from. Sighing in defeat, Aegis went to the futon in the middle of the room and sat on it.

'Whenever I thought have hit bottom... somebody throws me a shovel,' thought Aegis in a dull voice. 'Well, I better make the best out of this.' He then took off the backpack that was hidden underneath his cloak and reached out a novel, Life and Death Paradise Volume 5. Since he wasn't tired, he opened to the part that had a bookmark and continued from there, once he began reading, his mind was completely absorbed into it in an instant.

(Meanwhile)

"Hinata," called Hiashi when he found his oldest daughter in the kitchen cooking, a delicious aura roamed in the air.

"Hello, father," replied the Hyuga girl with an innocent smile. "How was your day?"

"Same as usual, how about you?"

"The hospital was quite busy today," said Hinata with a grin. "It seems like kids like to play self inflicting games. There was one that nearly drowned by playing underwater badminton."

"Underwater badminton?" asked Hiashi raising his eyebrows a bit hearing that sport.

"Don't ask."

"Anyway, Hinata, can you do me a favor?"

"What could that be?" she asked sweetly. Hiashi loved that cute smile she made, it suited her so well.

"Can you take whatever you are making to the first guest room?"

"How come? We have a guest here?"

"Yeah, he's around your age."

"Is he nice?"

"I'll say he's very humble. When he saw the guest room, he insisted that he should stay at an inn because the room looked too good for him."

"Really?" asked Hinata slightly surprised. "Okay, I'll make something for him, I hope he doesn't mind my cooking."

"Don't worry, Hinata, no one would bad mouth your food." Hinata smiled at her father's compliment, ever since Naruto came back to her life, her father no longer treated her that coldly, she finally felt that she belonged in this family. However, she still felt that she traded Naruto's life in exchange of this family life, up to this date she still pained for his loss, she wished that he would return to her one day. It had been over 3 years and Nightshadow, his mystical weapon, was still in her room, it was the most treasured thing she had of him, she could sense that he was alive, all she could do was wait.

(Moments later)

"Excuse me," called Hinata softly from outside the guest room. "Do you mind if I come in?" There was no response on the other side. "Hello, is anybody in there?" This time she said it in a louder voice. When Aegis heard a divine voice, his mind jolted back to reality rather abruptly. As the voice called again, he finally made a reply.

"You may come in," he said as he turned his back toward the door to put his novel away. As Hinata made her way in, she eyed the Hidden-nin curiously, he looked quite familiar to her. She banished those thoughts of hers nearly immediately knowing she had a job to do. She placed the tray of food on the ground and kneeled a several feet in front of him. At this point, she still couldn't see his face but she couldn't deny that he was quite good looking even from this view.

"I'm sorry to bother you," said Hinata politely. "My father was just wondering if you were hungry... it seems that you haven't eaten throughout the entire day."

"It's fine," said Aegis still not looking at her. "I'm sorry for not responding earlier."

"It's okay, what were you doing if you don't mind me asking?"

"Reading. Your father is too kind to me, even though I may be a guest, he doesn't need to give me such a full service in anything."

"He was right, you are very humble." Hinata said with a giggle. "Anyway, I am Hyuga Hinata, may I know your name." Aegis' heart stopped beating instantly, did she say what he thought she said. He finally tilted his head up and met her gorgeous face, he blushed slightly when he saw her smiling kindly at him. That smile could ease anything, Aegis didn't even realize it was her when she called earlier. Hinata looked absolutely beautiful like none other. Beneath those sunglasses of his tears began to form until it blurred his vision, he wanted to hug her, to tell her how much he had miss her, to tell her that he still loved her. Unknowingly, the tears soon came out from his eyes for he began to cry, seeing this, Hinata's expression turned from smiling to a worried one.

"Um... are you okay?" she asked concernedly. Aegis quickly shook out of his thought and rubbed his eyes in a rather fast pace. "Um... I don't think you should rub so hard..."

"I just had something in my eye..." lied Aegis skillfully trying to hide his emotions.

"Are you sure?" asked Hinata as she held his hand to move it out of the way so she could examine it herself. "You seem to be rubbing awfully hard. Let me take a look, I can help." As soon as she made contact with his hands trying to take off his sunglasses, he quickly turned his head the other way halting her.

"I'm okay... Hinata-ch-san..." he replied quickly as he finished his rubbing. "You're a very kind person... I thank you."

"You're very welcome... um... I'm sorry, I still don't know your name."

"I go by the code name Aegis."

"Code name?" asked Hinata curiously in a cute voice. "How come?"

"Because I am a Hidden-nin. Anyway, it's good to meet you, Hinata-san."

"It's good to meet you too, Aegis-kun."

"Thank you for being so kind," said the assailant looking at the food because her smile was too alluringly soothing. "I don't know how to thank you."

"You are the one too kind, Aegis-kun," said Hinata blushing slightly at his words. "I just brought you food, that's nothing."

"But you made it for me, right?" The Hyuga heiress had a shade of crimson once more, she couldn't believe that Aegis got it correct, but at the same time he sounded so knowingly. In addition, she didn't understand why she was blushing so much, she had never been so flushed in front of anyone other than to one person.

"Yes..." she squeaked timidly. "I hope you like it."

"I'm sure I'll love it." 'Like always.' Once again, Hinata flushed deeply at his comment.

"You're very welcome, Aegis-kun. I'll leave you alone now so you could finish your dinner, okay? If you need me, my room is actually across from this one."

"Is it?" asked the dark assailant surprised. This time he really didn't know and it was not a lie. She nodded with a smile in return with a blushing face, even though she couldn't mark his face completely, instincts told her that he was admirable just like someone she knew. "Thank you, Hinata-san, I'm sure you're showing your kindness because it is who you are, I'm glad that I got to meet you."

"Thank you, Aegis-kun..." Now, she was now trying to hide her flushed cheeks, coming from him made her heart beat rapidly, maybe a bit too quickly. "Enjoy your meal." After giving a slight bow, she timidly exited the room softly leaving Aegis all by himself. Smiling amusedly, he quickly made a short prayer before starting his meal that Hinata made. The smell of it already relaxed him, there wasn't anything that Hinata couldn't do to make him see the best in this world, she was truly an exceptional girl. No longer sensing her presence, he finally lowered his mask and removed his sunglasses to reveal his clear teal eyes.

'Hinata-chan,' he thought while bringing the bowl of rice to his mouth. Once he tasted it, a sincerely moved smile reached his lips naturally. 'You really have become a very beautiful young woman, I am glad you haven't changed one bit. I hope you know that Uzumaki Naruto will always love you, I will protect you, and will forever be by your side whether physically or spiritually. Even if it is for a little while, I want to see your beautiful face smile... because I know you have been crushed when you heard about my death... like you, I didn't want this to happen. I really want to tell you what truly happened to me for the past 3 years, I just don't know how you would take it... I don't know how I can express the pain that I feel... How can I open up to you the fact that 90 percent of my blood is corrupted? What will you say if I told you there is no possibility of reversing...'

AN: Have fun with this chapter, my friends, it certainly took a lot of patience out of this body to write a chapter like this. Now, yes, I got the name Aegis in Gundam Seed because it's a cool name. No, Aegis isn't my favorite Gundam though, Calamity is. If you happen to have a better name in mind, well, sorry, this is as far as this worn out body could muster at a time like this. Next chapter will be out next week since next week of school will be a living hell to me in every possible way. And yes, Naruto is alive and I will be referring him as Aegis unless specifically noted. SO REMEMBER, Naruto IS Aegis. If he died, this really would be the final chapter of my entire series... you wouldn't want that to happen would you? Anyway, it was a pleasure posting this chapter, if I have any mistakes, I will apologize. Before I forget, there will be fluff/ intimate romance or whatever you call it since Naruto is 16 and Hinata is nearly 16. With that dealt with, please review if possible, thanks again for reading! Later!