Downfall of the Light 2
Chapter 13: Konoha's Collapse and Reborn
Disclaimer: As you all people know, I don't own Naruto, Warcraft3 or almost anything involved with this story other than the plot, Rin, Calamity, Forbidden, Raider, and Reaper. So, now that you guys know, which you should've known ever since this book was made, please be a good friend and not sue or you people will wish you never read this. Without further adieu, have a good day.
Legend:
"…": Speech
'…': Thoughts
Italic words also means thoughts, it belongs to the person who was speaking in the paragraph.
Bolded Italic brackets are scenario changes.
AN: Ah, yes, I am back with another chapter for all you readers to read in the holidays. I know it's Christmas, so this would be a perfect holiday gift for you! Please enjoy your holidays the best way you could, I know I will be continuing on my school work… Damn that place, it's still here to haunt me to this day… Aside from my life, I want to thank those who actually bothered to review. Thank you so much for doing so, it really made my spirits went back to happiness for I only have 22 instead of the 40 that I usually get. Not that it really mattered whether it was low or not, this low number made me realize who are the true readers that want me to continue and those who just won't give a damn. I know now that I should continue this for the true loyal readers, you guys have my respect! To those who didn't, just enjoy the story and I hope you will not be lazy and actually give some feedback. Your words will only help me get better so I won't write crap. Whether it's illegal or not, I will make a Reviewers' Period because I want to talk to those who did go through the trouble of to make the extra effort to speak their mind.
SPECIAL REVIEWERS' PERIOD, this is an exception:
Dragon Man 180: You feel sorry for the dog? I, to be honest, felt the same way. However, being the sadistic person that I am, I had to kill him. I will admit, I had fun killing him too. Kind of contradicting, am I? Anyway, thanks for reviewing and hope you like this chapter!
A3eedi: Don't make this into a tragedy… you are in no position to tell me what to write. But, I am not that kind of person who likes to make things into a tragedy when the story held no tragedy from the start. Of course, difficulties are what keeps the story going or you people would get bored really soon. Thank you for reviewing, enjoy this chapter!
joekool: Thanks for defending against those shotgun shots and assault rifle firing. Despite your hard efforts, I am already shot… I don't think I can make it. LOL! New chapter is here, now I can show you my gratitude. Do me a favour and enjoy this.
jasx316: You hate Kiba now because I made him into a jackass? Wow, are my words that effective? I think that would be the most bloody chapter in the entire novel (not trilogy), and hell, I am so glad that you like Forbidden. I will find you on MSN to discuss more about your fic.
Resurrected-Evil: Good to see you're happy with the chapter that I made, glad to be realistic! Thank you for liking my work up to this point, I hope this chapter won't upset you.
sephynarutocloud: It's okay to toss knives at me, it's better than having six girls tackling or hit you because I said something that insulted them intentionally. I deserve punishment, don't I? Instead of apologizing because you "hurt" me, just enjoy this new chapter, okay? Thanks!
AlphaC: Here's your new chapter like you requested, and have a happy holiday yourself too, you earned it.
stoictimer: Funny is actually the first word that came to your mind? I was thinking of amusement, but it's overall the same! For obvious reason, Tsunade, Jiraiya, and the rest who cares for Naruto are incredibly irritated that the revolt happened. If I don't talk too much about their reactions, just keep the previous statement that I stated in mind. Glad that you like Forbidden as well, I had fun writing him, a lot of fun to be precise. Yes, I could tell you enjoyed that chapter a lot, good gift before the holidays, right? You can give me a Christmas present as well, enjoy this chapter.
Kyle: You are one cold but cool dude, you are just as sadistic as me! LOL! I added a South Park line before this, the first one was for humour, this one was for seriousness. I hope I kept my standards, please enjoy this chapter. Also, despite how sorry that I was in killing the dog… well, now I could care less. ENJOY!
Gopu: Simple words are the most appreciated words, thanks again!
One Azn Dragon: THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR KEEPING YOUR WORD! I am glad that you like blood, I like it too, obviously. I will talk to you on MSN for I can give you even more of my gratitude there.
nonegel: Thank you for liking my dark fights, I hope this chapter answers the question that you have. Thank you for reviewing and please enjoy this new creation.
warprince2000: Hope this update was fast enough for you, enjoy!
Anoe: Thanks for your review, and please like this chapter like how you always did with the others. Sorry that I couldn't talk to you too much on MSN, I was very busy trying to type this up and the new volume that I am planning to post soon. Hope you will forgive me, thanks again for reviewing, my friend!
DaveBoo1378: Don't like me killing the mutt? Oh, come on, you know how dark I can be, it's not the first time Naruto sliced things in half from the skull to the crotch thus cutting them in half. The dog just makes things accelerate to new heights and fun! I will talk to you on MSN too, which is fudged up at the moment… DAMN IT! Thanks again for reviewing.
Cobra-100: You actually have an account, and you are Cobra? Never knew that, glad that you signed in this time! If you think the last chapter was an early Christmas present, well, this is the real deal! I am glad that I didn't disappoint you, hope that you like this chapter just as much!
Place-your-name-here: Simple words are appreciated, and no need to rush through reviews. Hope this update is soon enough for you, later!
D.D Designator: I can't really answer all of your questions for all ruins plot. I will let the chapter answer the questions itself. You like Forbidden as well? I love his character too and I love the Gundam's pilot, Shani Andras. As for Shani being Naruto's son, I don't think I will tell you what I have planned. Just enjoy this!
Forbidden: Looks like you like the revenant too. And yes, I got him by somewhat taking traits of Shani Andras and forged it into this. It's good to know that you found this chapter awesome, and yes, I really like the pilot of Forbidden Gundam. Did I go too far in killing the mutt? I don't think so for Kiba deserves pain and suffering. Also, to me, low reviews mean that I have to work harder to earn more. The last thing I would do is to start a poll for it's completely illegal. Anyway, later!
Zhuyou: You name sounds like "sue you", you know that? LOL! Yes, finally someone is saying Kiba is stupid! I am so happy that you hate him too, my words are sure persuasive, aren't they? Please take pleasure in reading this new chapter of mine, I will let you do your thing while I sit back and continue working.
Lyfe.exe: I will update, don't worry. Is eight days fast enough for you? It's as fast as this soldier could go. Good to know that you like it, and I am VERY sure that you would not hesitate to see the crowd hurt me. Hey, if I die, no fanfic! Who am I kidding, seeing my dead body is distinctly more entertaining, am I right? Ack, just enjoy my chapter, okay?
violentlycheerful: Too much action, how could that be? Your name is violently cheerful, you are SUPPOSE to like violence! LOL! I know you found it cool, and thanks for your words of encouragement and sincerity. Don't worry, I will save myself because I don't want to die before this volume is over. You won't forgive me for putting in a cliff, oh, come on, I know you will forgive me. How about a new chapter for Christmas? No? Yes? Doesn't matter, you will receive this gift whether you like it or not! LOL! Aside from that, you are not my friend because you are a girl (I have enough friends who are girls and buying presents for them is death!), although I like girls because I a guy, it's because you earned it for you want me to continue this fiction. You give reviews time to time to tell me that you want this fic to be done quicker, and only you do that. Thank you so much for being a consistent reader, your cheerful spirit does lighten up my day when I read it. Please have a safer holiday than me, have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Is it me, or those words sounded really cheesy… and not to mention defective… Forget that, enjoy my newest chapter!
AN: I changed the mob size from fifteen hundred to twenty five hundred. I just wanted to make it more drastic. And can some of you please tell me what the accurate population of Konoha is? I estimated around three to four thousand, but another fic had around ten thousand or more… I don't know about that kind of stuff, so if you can tell me the more justifiable amount, feel free to tell me! Anyway, let the saga continue!
(Meanwhile, at the South Gate of Konoha)
"Akamaru…" Kiba said in the most shocked voice. "Impossible…" No… it can't be…
"Damn that bastard…" scolded Naruto obviously annoyed. "He completely messed up my entire attack… Shit, I don't have anything left…" Pathetic mutt… I took your life for the better…
"You killed Akamaru…" hissed Kiba dangerously as he made a deadly charge right at the exhausted Naruto. Even under the excruciating pain in the ribs, Kiba discarded that fact and went completely berserk. Once his claws were inches away from the assailant, Naruto raised his left arm with his army knife ready to block it. However, Kiba's strength completely overpowered the knife therefore shattering it into two with brutality. Naruto's eyes widened, a sense of devastation reached his face. His army knife was destroyed… and it was created by demonic chakra! His chakra! How was this even possible? As soon as Kiba made a severe twist and ready to attack Naruto again, Naruto guarded with his primary weapon tightly. Kiba winced knowing that runeblade was something that he wouldn't be able to penetrate, he simply slid to the right preparing for his next onslaught.
"Damn…" cursed Naruto sensing minimal energy within himself. His movements were weak and not to mention sluggish.
"You killed Akamaru!" shouted Kiba as he pulled out a kunai and stabbed it in Naruto's wounded left arm. Naruto gasped in much torment as he violently attempted to slash Kiba with his blade. However, due to the slow reaction, Kiba easily jumped back and took out several circular objects before throwing them around Naruto. Some of it even struck him directly, Naruto feared for the worst. As soon as those things made tiny explosions, a strong smoke came out from them thus clouding Naruto inside completely.
"What's this… smoke bombs?" questioned Naruto as he began to scan through it trying to escape. It was then when he began to cough heavily. His chest was suddenly burning, his vision was starting to blur, and if he actually noticed he was beginning to kneel weakly. A desperate gasp for air could be heard from Naruto's mouth, the Death Knight knew this was no ordinary bomb.
"Naruto!" shouted Hinata with concern knowing that he was in pain. To her knowledge, it seemed that he was having extreme difficulty trying to stay conscious.
"You killed Akamaru!" yelled Kiba as he whipped a kunai into the poison clouds. Trying to keep his eyes open, there was no way that Naruto would know something was heading his way. Taking the hit completely in the right shoulder, the young Death Knight fell helplessly on his back awaiting death. He can no longer feel any stamina, no mana, and definitely no willpower for he used it all up in the previous Death Pact. As he inhaled a bit more of the fumes unintentionally, his eyes came to a close rather hesitantly.
"Ni-san!" screamed Rin as she and Sakura pushed the males away and prepared to attack. Hinata followed suit immediately, this was no time to sit back and allow the tragedy to happen any further. Noticing the dangerous auras coming from the left, Kiba quickly took a set of the same bombs from his pouch and tossed it right at the ground before they reached him. As the fumes erupted, the Kamishiro girl quickly made a set of hand seals to activate the jutsu. She hoped this worked.
"Mana Shield!" declared Rin as a powerful barrier formed from her hand and surrounded her and the entire gang within it. She sighed in relief as the gas was maintained outside the reflector but there was a problem, she couldn't drop it.
"Rin," said Hinata activating her Byakugan, it was obvious that she wanted combat. "Drop the barrier, I need to get that guy!"
"I can't…"
"Why not?" asked Sakura in disbelief. "We can't stay in here forever!"
"I know that!" The Kamishiro girl yelled back angrily. "But if I dropped it, the gas will be leaking in and it will kill all of us! Do you want that?"
"But… Kiba will run away," reasoned Tenten. "Just make a break for it when you drop it."
"I suggest we don't, Tenten," said Neji agreeing with his comrade.
"And can you tell me why not?" questioned the weapon mistress giving him a silent glare.
"We don't know what the gas can do even if we inhale it a little bit, it's wise not for us to do things so irrationally…"
"But… Neji, Kiba can escape though!" justified Ino wanting to get out as well. "Damn it!"
"We can't do that, Ino…" hissed Sasuke clearly annoyed at the fact that he was being bind by poisonous gas bombs, if it was anything else he wouldn't be so frustrated. But simple poison gas, it was a joke. He hated being helpless.
"Eat it!" Kiba screamed as he continued to throw gas bombs at the gang even though he knew the reflector was up protecting them. As each bomb ignited, it created a thicker layer of smoke thus creating a powerful distraction. It was the best time to deal with the Death Knight, it was that moment when he took out more weapons to ready himself for the kill.
"Rin, if we don't get out of here, he will kill Naruto-kun!" Hinata shrieked in a panic. It was then the Kamishiro girl flinched.
"No one said you can't attack within the barrier," said Rin loudly. "You can shoot him so he won't be able to hurt ni-san." Hearing that, Sakura, Sasuke, Hinata and everyone else who had the capability to release projectile jutsus completed their hand seals. Without hesitation, they fired at will serious praying to Kami-sama that this would do the trick.
When Kiba was about to stab the unconscious demon boy on the skull for he had no chakra within himself to utilize any jutsus, a wave of deadly pursuits were aimed for him. With widen eyes, he quickly lowered himself as much as possible hopefully to dodge them. Getting hit now did have the potential to take his life away. However, it was then when Sakura's Mana Flare struck him heavily in the arm. As he rolled due to the force, he took a close look at the amount of firepower being produced from afar. His eyes narrowed angrily seeing his enemies were nowhere close to being tired. There was no possible way that he could deal with the rest of them.
Picking up a used cleaver as a shield to defend against several more attacks, Kiba knew if he dealt with Naruto now, there was a high chance that he would be attacked while attacking. Things didn't show any promise for him, despite how much he didn't want to, he had no choice but to retreat. Pains in the ribs kicked in once again, at this current stage, he was in no shape to fight. Kiba wanted to kill that demon, but he had no ability to do so. As the firepower continued to increase, he had to make a decision right here. His wits took the better of him, he had to save himself. Kiba just hoped Naruto inhaled enough of the gas to stay asleep permanently. It was then when he took his leave towards the opposite side of the village, not hoping to ever return knowing execution only awaited him if he went back. He will have his revenge one day… just wait until his body recovered… Naruto will meet his maker, Kiba swore on his life for it.
"Naruto!" shouted Sasuke when the poison gas finally subsided. Hinata wanted to faint when she saw him, her Naruto was lifeless and near death state. Hinata sensed no chakra, his chest wasn't even elevating, who knew if he was dead or not. Running by his side holding his left arm, she gasped when she figured out how soft it was. To be accurate, it was abnormally flexible therefore Hinata figured that it was broken. He was battling Kiba with a broken arm, he was so amazing, as Hinata would say. The Hyuga girl then pulled out the kunai that was in his left shoulder and pressed her ear on his heart to hear his heartbeat.
"Anything, Hinata?" asked Sakura equally worried. The Hyuga heiress then raised her head with a weak nod.
"There is one…" she said wanting to cry. "But it's weak…"
"We can't waste any more time, Hinata-sama," said Neji. "Let's get him to the hospital!"
"But we don't know if the hospital still has staff after this revolt," justified Lee.
"It's better than not trying at all," said Shikamaru wanting to get moving for once. Ino had to agree, she immediately with Tenten hustled the men to carry the wasted Naruto and Haku and left for the hospital. They really hoped there were people left in there or it would be really bad news. Just when they thought Haku had some life left within him, he soon passed out on Sasuke's back. The gang's hopes sank instantly, all they could do was pray to Kami-sama hoping their friends would live through this or Hinata may never heal from her emotional loss again.
(At the hospital two days later)
"Will he be okay, Doctor Yamato?" asked Hinata stroking Naruto's cheek. She then wiped a tear from her eye not wanting to cry. The doctor knew how much she loved Naruto, he would never blame her for getting emotional.
"Don't worry, Hyuga-sama," said the doctor. "Naruto-san only suffered from a broken left arm, extreme exhaustion and a wounded leg. I am sure that he will be fine."
"But… what about the poison gas?" she asked wanting more details of her fiancé's condition. "Will Naruto be okay from that?"
"Well… I will tell you, Hinata," The girl was surprised that the doctor called her Hinata, he never did that. "If it wasn't for his enhanced body, there was no possible way that he would've survived." Hinata silently took in a breath. "His demonic energies and chakra are amazing, if it was any of us, we would've been killed. It's fascinating that how powerful a demon could be… especially when his is one of the strongest. Maybe that's how demonic people always have an advantage over us."
"What do you mean?" asked the Hyuga girl.
"He is physically stronger than you, right?" countered Yamato not angry or content.
"He is a guy… it's only natural that he would be..."
"You know what I meant, Hinata. It's sad too, it's because he is different, people hate him for it."
"But isn't it because they hate the demon within him? I know Naruto-kun had nothing to do with the massacre sixteen years ago, he is innocent…"
"I know he is but the villagers are also jealous of him."
"Jealous?"
"They are jealous that he has that kind of power, Hinata," explained the doctor as the girl continued to listen. "They do want the power for themselves. Have you heard of the saying 'Absolute power corrupts absolutely'?" Hinata thought about it a bit, her eyes opened a tint when she remembered Naruto saying that to her in the mansion. "When people get in touch with power, or rather, have power… they intend to use it. That's what power is for, to use and get what you want. But little do people know, having this right is very dangerous."
"How is it dangerous?" she asked listening very attentively.
"Think about it, Hinata, does power get you what you want? Because of that, people will consistently want to use it to get what they want. However, when an individual can no longer get it within the current power they possess what would they do? Naturally, they would want more. This is where it gets dangerous because they would want to get more of it by all means. Compromise, appeasement, pretending to be a friend of someone with more capabilities and then back-stab them later on, they are all methods in gaining more power. Of course, the most sadistic way would be killing off the competition, literally. The frightening part about this is that this could truly happen, there are such people out there with unspeakable desires. There are these people that would discard anything in order to achieve power…
"I know Naruto-san isn't someone that abuses his power but I know that a lot of people wished that they had that kind of power that he possesses."
"Are you one of these people, Dr. Yamato?" she asked very quietly, looking at her Naruto more than the person she was speaking to. He didn't blame her one little bit nor was he angry with her for asking such a question.
"I'll be perfectly honest with you, Hinata," replied the doctor with most openness. "There are times that I wish I had his abilities so my life would be easier. However, I would be just as pathetic as most of Konoha citizens. Believe me, jealousy does bring unhappiness. For me to live life more optimistically, or even more enjoyably, just be proud of what you earn with your own hard work because you truly gave your best on it. Remember Hinata, just never give up whether you are happy with the results or not.
"Back to the last subject about Naruto, of course, having such capabilities does have its disadvantage for it makes Naruto-san different. People do intend to fear the things that are different, whether it's a threat or not for it spreads an influence directly or indirectly. For his case… the villagers obviously see him as a clear threat because he does have that thing inside him. It's sad actually since it wasn't like Naruto-san actually chose to be different. If I know Naruto's pain, he would want to give up almost anything in order to be normal and not suffer from any of this. Who would want to have a revolt because they are the cause of it to commence? I am sure Naruto-san would want to live a life where it's peaceful and not something like this… I really do pity him for having to go through all this, and how old is he, sixteen? This is not something a sixteen year old boy should experience, and if I am correct, this is his second revolt?"
"Yes…" replied Hinata sadly with her eyes looking at the floor. "But this one… it was like nearly the entire Konoha was against him… I know it must've been a major devastation to his mental health… I am really worried…"
"I am too, Hyuga-sama," said Yamato sincerely. "I am not pitying you, not because he is your fiancée, but as someone who has just seen about enough crap that happens to him. If he does wake up, try not to shock him or do anything drastic. Even though being an experienced doctor, no one can tell what is happening in his mind. If I were you, I would take it one step at a time. You can stay here for the night if you want, Hyuga-sama. I am sure he would love to see your face as the first thing when he opens his eyes again. Anyway, I will return to the lab to check up on the bodies to see if any one of them is alive… I will get going now."
"Thank you, Dr. Yamato," said Hinata giving a slight bow of gratitude. "Thank you so much…"
"No problem, Hyuga-sama, have a good night." After giving a smile, the doctor left the room leaving the heiress all by herself with the unconscious and seriously wounded Death Knight. Not only was she worried about Naruto, she was concerned about Haku as well. From what the doctor told her before this conversation, Haku was in terrible status too. She really hoped that he was okay. It was then she was certain that she felt his hand move, just a little. "Naruto-kun?" she asked when she was absolutely sure that he was moving for his body shifted uncomfortably.
"Kuso…" That was all she could hear out his mouth. Although it might've been as silent as a pin drop, Hinata could hear it very clearly.
"Naruto-kun?" she asked again warmly now holding his hand and stroking his hair and cheek with her other hand trying to sooth him. Her elegance were something so rare these days, it wasn't long before calm breaths were taken from the Death Knight. Hinata smiled knowing that he was now relaxed.
"Where am I?" questioned Naruto slowly while his disengaged blue eyes began to open. Judging by his voice, Hinata easily realized that he was still quite drained.
"I'm so glad that you're awake, Naruto-kun," she said with teary eyes and along with a genuine smile. She began to touch his cheek again like how a mother would do to a baby.
"How…"
"You're in the hospital," said Hinata cooing him to go back to sleep. Deep down, she wanted to hug him so tightly that he was awake at last. But knowing that he was hurting all over, that action may cause him to feel unnecessary pain, which she didn't want him to suffer any more of.
"Hinata-chan?" he asked not understanding why he was here in this room or why she was here with him. "How… How did I get here?"
"We got you here," she explained while giving him a soft kiss on the cheek to make him get some rest. "Naruto-kun, go back to sleep."
"I can't sleep… Tell me what happened to me… What…" She then silenced him with a kiss on the lips. Even though no tongues were involved this time, Naruto quieted himself immediately.
"I can tell you that tomorrow," said the Hyuga girl smiling at him very warmly. "Right now you have to listen to me and get some rest." Naruto nodded and winced a little bit, or a lot to a certain degree, when he tried to move his left arm. He realized in a second that it was broken and his left leg felt tight as well. Naruto tried to understand how this happened but the girl answered it for him kindly. Once he had his answer, his cerulean eyes stared at a random spot of the room like a zombie, having no passion whatsoever. He was dead still, as if he had a lot on his mind. Not that Hinata minded though, Naruto was most likely to suffer any kind of emotional damage after that, she really wanted him to get some rest, "Naruto-kun?"
"What is it?" he asked in a deadly stoic tone but not hostile, it was rather close to exhaustion. To the girl, she felt like talking to air.
"You need something to drink?"
"A warm cup of milk would be nice…" replied the assailant half-choking on his words as if he was going to weep. Hinata nodded and kissed him gently on the cheek once more before leaving the room. Before she closed the door, she frowned when Naruto noticed Nightshadow and his broken army knife on the table several feet away from him. Judging by those eyes of his, he was in deep thought again. No doubt Hinata worried sick about him. Banishing any negative thoughts in her mind, Hinata closed the door and headed for the lounge to get the cup of milk he asked for earlier. She prayed that everything could go back to normal again but deep down Hinata knew better for things could not be repaired like it was before.
(Several Minutes Later)
"Naruto-kun?" asked Hinata to herself with fear while she entered the room with the cup of milk finding it completely empty. Her lavender eyes were filled with stun, she had no idea where he went. How could he be so unpredictable at a time like this? He was still recovering and now he was missing! Putting the cup on the counter, she immediately activated her own bloodline limit hoping to scan the entire vicinity of a radius of 5 kilometres. Naruto better be here somewhere, or she would really start to panic. Once those lavender eyes began to change into something in similar to a mirror, she recoiled a bit when she found the Death Knight above this floor. He was on the rooftop staring into the dark skies in deep sadness and confusion. Not wasting any more time, she Blinked up there and arrived right by his side.
"Is that you, Hinata-chan?" asked Naruto not even looking at her. The girl gave a nodding sound of recognition before he gave off a drained grin.
"Why did you come up here, Naruto-kun?" asked the Hyuga girl as she sat beside him wrapping her arms around his undamaged right arm. She then leaned her head on his right shoulder thus resting comfortably. "You should be sleeping."
"I already told you, I couldn't sleep."
"Why did you ask for that beverage then?"
"So you won't see me sneak out," he answered with a dark chuckle. "All I needed was you to get out of the room."
"You are a naught, Naruto-kun. You know you should be sleeping, your body needs the rest."
"Too much is on my mind, Hinata-chan," he reasoned looking at her angelic visage. "Sometimes, I just want to be cast away and get out of this entire damned thing…"
"Don't say that, I am more than willing to go through it with you."
"I know you are… but don't you think sometimes life can be such crap that you just don't want to deal with it anymore? Even people who are not cowards in life would have this kind of feeling sometime in their life. How can I face Konoha now? Twenty five hundred people were killed in one night… Peasants, vassals, genin, chunnin, farmers, teenagers… everyone who participated in that revolt lost their lives by my hands, or Haku-sempai's, Calamity… Raider, Reaper and Forbidden…" Hinata shivered a little hearing that last name, she would have nightmares if he pictured his face.
"Who are those four people, Naruto-kun?"
"The demons that I summoned to help me?" questioned the demon hunter trying to see if that was what she was asking. When she nodded, he continued. "They are the demons that I call forth from another dimension using my chakra. They are loyal, or supposedly loyal, for I summoned them, I had the ability to summon them rather. Usually, summoned units are even more powerful than the ritual caster himself, that's why they are needed when I need them to come. You worried about Forbidden?"
"Forbidden… that young man with the large spear headed scythe?"
"Yeah, him…" replied the assailant. "He looks kind of like me, ne?"
"He sure acts a lot like you before we got together," stated Hinata holding his hand and playing with it a little. "Very cold and ruthless, yet he holds a strong sense of reliability and friendship…"
"Friendship?" he asked confused.
"Forbidden is a lot like you, like I said," whispered the Hyuga heiress. "I am sure he has a kind heart too, just like you do."
"How would you know that? He is not me."
"It's a woman's intuition, Naruto-kun," she cooed as she gave him a soft kiss.
"But… he and I killed all those people…"
"It's not your fault, Naruto-kun… I know it couldn't be helped…"
"I am sorry that I hid it from you… again, Hinata-chan…" said the Death Knight with significant guilt. The Hyuga girl shook her head with a smile before she gave a long kiss on his lips. As she pulled back, Naruto couldn't feel any other feeling than pure surprise, "Hinata?"
"I can't blame you, Naruto-kun," she said understandingly.
"Why?" he asked not understanding how it was possible that Hinata was not angry.
"It's not like you wanted this to happen. Besides… I know you wouldn't want to put me in danger, I know you would rather sacrifice your own life in order to protect mine. I love you, if I can't understand your intentions to protect me or anyone else, I would be a selfish wife now, wouldn't I? But…" This was the point that tears began to flow out of her beautiful eyes. "I don't want you to die. I can't live without you by my side… I was really afraid that you would've been killed out there, I really thought I would not see you again. I can't bare to even believe that you would be taken away from me again." She then hugged him tightly for security with silent cries. Naruto grimaced as he encircled his fine arm around her soft body and pulling her in to deepen it, it wasn't too hard to realize how scared Hinata truly was. He kissed her cheek and ran his hand through her incredibly silky and smooth hair trying to reassure her that everything was going to be okay. When she sniffed a little bit, Hinata couldn't hold it any longer and claimed his lips into a passionate kiss not giving him any time to refuse.
Naruto was obviously not prepared for this. He was first in his own melancholy and deep thoughts a several minutes ago and now, the girl he loved ever so much was kissing him, but she seemed very aggressive this time around. The death assassin knew why, she treasured him more than any earthly thing. However, in his weak state he had to admit that it was soothing but the drawback was it was just too overwhelming. Her tongue brushed against his clean teeth wanting admittance immediately. She would not take no for an answer this time. Hinata was very skilled in this, when Naruto still didn't budge she began to lick his teeth, lips and anywhere nearby seductively in order to get her way. As Naruto kissed her back in a tired manner, she began to seize control of his mouth penetrating any sort of defence he had within. Her tongue sucked on his and scoured every part of his mouth having a good taste. Hinata swore that his mouth was something that she always wanted to have a part of. The Death Knight could not possibly believe that she could be this good. He couldn't blame her though, they had make out over enough times of their lives… At that moment, Naruto was somewhat afraid of how initiative she could be when they made love. Being the Death Knight Naruto he was, this demon clearly realized how badly she loved him.
"Hinata-chan," he gasped through tiny breaths of air, which were clearly not enough for his current condition. She then stopped and looked at him innocently with a smile of the same manner. "Can't breathe… properly…" Hearing that, the Hyuga girl reluctantly pulled away a little so he could grasp some airs that he desperately needed. Hinata so didn't want it to end so quickly, it was only starting to get good.
"Did you like it?" she asked timidly with a frame of innocence.
"Like what?" he asked coughing.
"The kiss," The heiress answered with a sweet smile.
"You can be such a vixen," replied Naruto poking her cheek, his previous melancholic thoughts forgotten. The girl flushed when he touched her like that, she always did it when that happened. "You really surprise me with your charm, Hinata-chan."
"You know I would only do it to you," she said kissing him on the forehead. "Because I love you…"
"I love you too, Hina-chan."
"I'm glad that you're alive," stated Hinata as she gave him a warm hug again. Naruto didn't hesitate to give one back although he only had one available arm. "I am so glad that you are alive."
"Likewise,"
"You tired yet, Aegis-kun?"
"Starting actually," answered the Death Knight feeling kind of strange. "That kiss must've drained the rest of my energy…"
"Really?" she questioned him in an amused tone. "Am I that good?" She then leaned in to his ear. "I wonder if you would like it when we are in bed..." Naruto's face reddened immediately and gave off a weak, and not to mention, forced laugh.
"Let's not talk about it now, Hinata…" he said trying desperately to change the subject but that seductive face of hers told him that she was staying on this subject no matter what. "I am still injured here."
"Oh, I don't know about that," she said leaning a bit on him while her hand was on his cheek. "I know you heal rather fast for a demon. I am sure you will be okay in a few days." For the first time in his sixteen years of his life, he cursed his healing capabilities. "Don't keep me waiting." Naruto gulped and remained silent.
"Yeah…" he mumbled a few seconds later.
"You tired?" asked Hinata as she touched his forehead.
"Getting a bit… I think I would need my sleep."
"Then you should go back to bed then," she said helping him back up on his feet. "Like you said, you are still injured." She then held his hand with a touch of loving motions. "Or do you want me to go in with you?"
"We can't do that, Hina-chan, that bed is only big enough for one person."
"I am sure you can make a compromise now, would you? For me?"
"Some other time, Hinata-chan. I got to go back to sleep." He then took in a deep breath of the night air, and it sure smelled relaxing. "I love you, Hinata-chan."
"I love you too. Now you have to get some rest, I want you to rest well, okay?" Nodding, both shinobis Blinked back inside to their rooms in a flash. As the assailant fell back onto the bed with his broken left arm and wounded left leg, he couldn't help but smile as Hinata tucked him in like a mother would. Naruto knew she would be a perfect mother for her children, if she had any, Naruto certainly felt safe in her care. As she kissed him on the cheek as a goodnight kiss, she turned off the lights to allow him to have some long deserving rest. The Death Knight smiled when he saw her took a comfortable seat near his bed in the corner of his eye. It was that moment that he decided to get some rest for his recovering body.
(Next morning at the Hokage's Office)
"Around twenty five hundred people who participated in last night's revolt… how many survived?" asked Tsunade very lowly to Neji's Anbu squad, who were called in as an emergency command. Neji coughed silently before giving the Hokage a reply. Why did he cough, you ask? The entire squadron knew the Hokage was ticked off beyond imaginable. Although they weren't the ones who caused the revolt, it was best preferred if they speak wisely.
"Based on Dr. Yamato's autopsy research report…" began the Hyuga captain. "None survived."
"That is a major blow on the population…" grunted Tsunade clearly not content at the news. To be precise, she was enraged but there was no point in yelling at the young Anbus who were in the room, it wasn't their responsibility that it happened. She was more concerned about Kiba, who abandoned Konoha after the mass genocide. With such influential power, this person may be a great threat.
"How is Naruto?" asked Jiraiya who was also present at the moment.
"Naruto just suffered from recoverable injuries in a serious degree," said Neji knowing Naruto would be okay. "There is nothing much that needs to be worried about."
"How about Haku?"
"He in the same condition but he may need more time to recover. At any rate, both of them need to get away from action before their bodies are capable to take on tasks again."
"This doesn't sound too promising…" said Sasuke in a low voice. "Damn that bastard Kiba…"
"I am more worried about the near future…" said Rin sadly. "Currently… there are only around seven hundred to one thousand people left in this village who are still alive… it's impossible for the village to be able to sustain previous stability with such a dramatic decrease."
"I know that, Rin," said the Hokage. "But that leads me to the next question."
"What is that, Hokage-sama?" asked Lee very respectfully.
"How many corpses are still in tact?" That question bewildered the three male Anbus but Rin didn't budge a bit. It was like as if she had knowledge of this. "Do you guys know?"
"Not really," responded the Uchiha with a bit of an apologetic voice. "We didn't expect to know such information. However, why do you need to know how many corpses are still… in piece?"
"This is probably the only way to bring some of them back to life," explained Jiraiya seriously. "Naruto does have a technique that can revive the dead fully, that's all we can do to restore the population by a percentage so Konoha's previous lost would not be as severe. In any case, we need to know how many carcasses are still available?" Only not as severe is only trying to flatter myself…
"Around eight hundred," replied Rin promptly.
"That is as good as it can possibly go…" said Tsunade more to herself than to the gang.
"However…"
"What is it, Rin?" asked Lee curiously.
"But… I don't think Naruto-ni-san's technique is actually the one that you want him to use…"
"What do you mean?" asked Tsunade.
"Ni-san is not a Paladin, remember? He is a Death Knight, and Death Knights have the Animate Dead, not the Resurrection."
"Animate Dead… Resurrection?" asked Neji not understanding these terms.
"What is that?" questioned the Uchiha equally in state of puzzlement. "I know nothing of this…"
"Both Animate Dead and Resurrection are both forbidden techniques in the Uzumaki Clan," explained Jiraiya. "However, supposedly being holy warriors, most and possibly even all of them bless the next generation with Resurrection instead of the Animate Dead. Both abilities are extremely powerful nonetheless of course."
"How are they powerful?" inquired the Hyuga anbu captain.
"But, what's the difference between the two though?" asked Sasuke very confusedly.
"Resurrection is the technique that can make ten fallen warriors or anyone dead come back to life permanently. This indeed verified to be a very useful technique in a battlefield no doubt. The user has the ability to also choose who to bring back to life therefore the user will not have to revive enemies."
"What about the Animate Dead?" asked Lee now paying close attention.
"You can say that this move is more of an manipulator." Tsunade stated with a sigh.
"How come?"
"Animate Dead similarly revives the dead as well. However, it searches for the strongest bodies that were fallen and make them fight for the Death Knight. They might still have their wits and whatnot, but they are now servants of the user. Aside from that, the people that are reborn again are invulnerable thus they have no worries of getting killed. Of course, there is a downside to such an attack. The Animate Dead can only revive people for a short amount of time in battle, only around twenty minutes at most. During the activation period, this attack can really even out the odds."
"Why do Paladins not learn the Animate Dead as well?" asked Neji wanting to know more.
"Treating dead bodies as mere play things to win a battle isn't a principle the Uzumakis would like to follow. Both techniques soon became one of the moves that the clan was famous for. It wasn't too hard to expect that most of the clan members blessed their future generation with the Resurrection and discarded the Animate Dead. Somehow… when Death Knights were born, they were miraculously gifted with this attack."
"So Naruto has this attack too?" questioned the Uchiha with a smirk. "What a cool technique…"
"But this attack has no use if we want the villagers to be alive again permanently," commented Rin crossing her arms against her chest. If Gaara was here, he would refer to it as… her arcane beauty, he would never refer any of part of Rin's body as something to lust, he would admire and love it. "There is no one left in this world that knows such an attack… dang it…"
"Even if Naruto is a Paladin," said Jiraiya in a hopeless tone. "I seriously doubt he would spend his time trying to revive the ones that tried to kill him just because he has a demon within himself. Knowing that boy… his heart can be very cold if people do that to him."
"Who can blame him for such a thing…" said Rin.
"Those people were sure foolish, that's something I can bet my money on," stated the Hokage. "You think he is awake right now? It has been a several days and I still haven't visited him."
"He should be just fine," said Lee confidently. "Knowing him, I mean."
"Should we get going?" asked Sasuke. "He does need to know the plan."
"We should," replied Neji. "I want to see how he is doing."
"Like I said before," stated Lee with a grin. "He should be just fine."
(Later at the hospital)
The morning of today was very unlike yesterday… or rather three days ago. The last time that Naruto remembered opening his eyes he was certain that depression was the only thing present. Today, however, he felt as if more of his burdens were lifted from his shoulders. When he woke up this morning, his loving Hinata was beside him trying to ease all the pain he had within his heart. Little did she know, her graceful smile already made him feel relaxed and appreciated, his precious Hyuga Hinata was someone that can take the best within him, she made him feel like a human being who needed to be loved, someone that had a value in living. How could he live without her today?
Currently, the young assailant was reading a book that belonged to the hospital as his caring fiancée filled in fresh flowers into the vase. When Hinata turned her head around showing him her heart-melting smile, the Death Knight soon made a blush. He then turned away, trying to hide his flushed cheeks. Was it him or was Hinata just so alluringly beautiful? When the demon hunter wanted to glue his eyes to the book again in a hurry, the Hyuga girl emitted a soft giggle knowing that he had been admiring her beauty. Not that she ever minded, she wanted him to look at her, to touch her. Once the Death Knight pretended to read (when his mind was filled with thoughts on the Hyuga girl), he felt his book was lowered by a finger. As his deactivated blue eyes looked carefully, he soundlessly recoiled when he saw Hinata sitting near his lap with her finger at the top of the book so his face would meet hers.
"I'm trying to read, Hina-chan," he said when he skilfully reverted his attention back to his book. At the same time, it was then when she pulled away the book and forced him to look at her in the eye. The demon boy was shocked at her boldness, she never ceased to surprise him.
"Are you, Naruto-kun?" she asked with distinct distrust, Naruto could tell she was very entertained. "Are you sure you are reading? Were you not thinking about me?" Naruto only gulped, Hinata was reading through him like glass. "You never think about me when you are alone, Naruto-kun? I know I always think about you when I am alone."
"Is that so, Hinata-chan?" he asked with a smirk not wanting to be intimidated.
"Of course," Hinata answered truthfully. "But I have been wondering about something last night…" Naruto detected a bit of seriousness in her voice during that last sentence, he wondered what could be bothering her. "You know… my hand have been feeling a little light…"
"What's wrong with your hand, Hina-chan?" questioned Naruto, as he held her hands with his right hand trying to examine it. "What do you mean light? Has it been feeling ill?" The Hyuga girl giggled immediately, he could be so funny to her.
"No, not that," she replied while she gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"So, what's wrong then?"
"I'll give you a hint…" Hinata then leaned her head towards his ear, she licked it a little bit just to tease him. Naruto smirked a little bit before giving his full attention. "I want some weight on my finger."
"Some weight on your finger…" mumbled the Death Knight to himself repeating the same sentence a several times. Somehow, he just couldn't grasp what she was talking about. Why would you want weight on her finger? Did she want to get fat? That was the only logical explanation. However, when he thought about it, if Hinata wanted to get fat, why not just eat more? Why bother implying to him that she wanted her finger to feel heavier? He then looked over to her beautiful, small, smooth hands as if they were Kami-sama forged it himself, he noticed that it was divine but something seemed to be missing. Hinata only smiled sweetly allowing him to take his time thinking, she knew he would get it eventually.
"Got it yet?"
"I don't get it…" he said very apologetically, being clueless wasn't something he experienced too often. The demon hunter was sure irritated with himself for being in such a trap. "The only assumption I could think of is that you want to gain weight… But that couldn't be it." It was then when Hinata laughed out loud with her gentle voice. The assailant only eyed her with a suspicious stare. When Hinata calmed down, which she did very gracefully, she gave him a poke on the forehead.
"No, Aegis-kun," stated the heiress with a teasing smile. "Why would I want to gain weight? I always want to be the most beautiful in your eyes."
"You will always be the most beautiful because you are my future wife," he said holding her gently with care. It was then his eyes widened with realization, he immediately backtracked his previous statement and tried to remember what he said. "I get it now,"
"Get what?" she asked him innocently.
"You want your wedding ring, right?" questioned the Death Knight smiling with absolute sureness in his tone of voice. "You want to get married soon." Not taking another moment, the girl pushed her lips into his giving him a passionate kiss as a gift. Catching him completely off guard twice in a row, Naruto coughed audibly as Hinata retracted from him. "Air… sweet air…"
"Sorry…" Hinata said sheepishly with a blush knowing he was coughing for real.
"I should be the one sorry," stated the Death Knight. "I nearly forgot about your ring, how foolish was I to do something like that?"
"It's not your fault," she said with consideration. "We had our problems to deal with, it's impossible for any of us to get that done during this tough period of time. I won't blame you if you didn't get me one." Hinata then shifted a little bit closer so his body would feel hers. "However, now that everything is over, you will get me the ring soon, am I right?" Letting out an airy snicker, he nodded as he planted a gentle kiss on her nose but she moved intentionally so he would take her lips. "And you will marry me too, right?"
"You want to get married so soon, Hina-chan?" he asked now with a touch of seriousness. "Isn't it a bit too hasty?"
"I don't think so, you are willing to commit yourself to me fully, am I right? I am more than willing to marry you, I am willing to spend my entire life with you through thick and thin. Believe me, Naruto-kun, if I can stand being your girlfriend during these road of trials, there is no way that I cannot stand being bonded with you forever. Especially with the man I love most."
"Thinking the same thing, Hinata," said Naruto pulling her close to an embrace. "I know we can work things out together. You know what, let's make the plans when I can get out of this place. I don't want to keep my princess waiting." She then smiled warmly before hugging him tightly but not to an extent that he would feel pain.
"Thank you, Naruto-kun!" she exclaimed with joy. "I love you."
"I love you too, Hinata-chan. I love you too."
(Later that day after Tsunade explained the current situation to Naruto. Of course, after the revelations, cries, and such)
"The Resurrection technique? One of the ultimate and yet forbidden attacks in my former clan?" questioned Naruto as he took a sip of water in one of the lounges in the hospital, which was now used more as a small, informal conference room. "Why do you need me to perform such an attack?"
"Do you know that technique?" asked the current Hokage. Naruto only snickered sharply.
"I am a Death Knight," he said rather surprised that Tsunade would ask him such a question. "I only know the Animate Dead and nothing else."
"Are you sure there is nothing that you can do to help, ni-san?" asked Rin hopefully. Hinata, and everyone else who survived the revolt, which were the rookie nine (excluding Kiba and Chouji since he is not here right now), Haku, Rin, Neji, Lee, and Tenten looked at him with a positive answer. The Death Knight only sighed slightly as of response.
"What is there for me to do?" asked Naruto as he took a sip of water. "What can I possibly do?"
"You have to revive them," stated Neji directly.
"Why would I do that?"
"Because Konoha lost over two thirds of its population in one night," said Sasuke completely understanding in terms of why Naruto would want to refuse. "Without manpower, this village does have the potential to reach depression and all of us will suffer from poverty. Also, in such weak state it can only make rivalling villages want to take over our lands. We can't afford to have things like this for long."
"It's those idiots who brought this upon themselves," spat Naruto bitterly.
"But those people who didn't show their hate for you are the ones who are now suffering, Naruto," said Tenten. "Do you think they deserve it?"
"We are not trying to be selfish here," commented Ino. "But what Sasuke-kun said is very possible and probably even more than likely to happen if things continue like this."
"What is the original population of Konoha before the revolt?" asked Naruto to Tsunade in a very mature manner. He was not acting, it was time to be serious.
"Around thirty four thirty five hundred," said Tsunade. "Konoha has around nine hundred to a thousand civilians left, and if war does happen, we are pretty much sitting ducks that will be run over without difficulty. Also, our prosperity levels have dropped significantly after this without doubt."
"So things are heading downhill?" asked Sakura worriedly.
"Pretty much." replied the blond sannin very sadly.
"Even though if I am capable of reviving these people… how many dead bodies are left in tact though?" asked Naruto to the entire group. Neji, Sasuke and Lee were somewhat shocked to hear that question, which the same one Tsunade was asked them earlier this morning.
"Around eight hundred," answered Rin giving a sigh. "That was all Dr. Yamato could possibly find amongst all those."
"Only a third…" mumbled the assailant to himself wanting to curse everything. "Even if I have the ability to do it, Konoha's condition will no longer be the same as before. In the end, seventeen hundred people perished regardless."
"Bringing back half is better than bringing back none, Naruto-kun," said Hinata trying to get some logic into his head. It wasn't like he didn't hold any, the girl knew he was one of the most intelligent and rational person she had known. However, it was that she clearly understood that Naruto was half blinded with rage towards the traitors and especially Kiba.
"The village is desperate for people," said Shikamaru. "We can use all the help we can get. If we don't do anything, Konoha will be exactly what Tsunade-sama said earlier. A bunch of sitting ducks just waiting for oppressors to run over them without difficulty. Despite how much they don't deserve it, we have to get them back to life whether we like it or not."
"Easy for you to say," Naruto said with half dark sarcasm. "Damn it… if it wasn't for you guys, my revenge against Konoha would finally be fulfilled. My longed hatred for these people will finally come to an end… However, if I do that… I will be just as bad as Kiba…"
"Are you going to help them then, Naruto-ni-chan?" asked his pink hair sister with joy. Naruto silently nodded, it was clear that he was not too content to be a nice guy for the people he hated. Hinata, Rin and Tsunade were very proud of him, it was a good step to change his previous thoughts and be replaced with much more happier ones in the future. Revenge and vengeance will never satisfy the human soul. Seeing the demon boy finally willing to gradually let it became less of him, it was a great improvement but the cost of it was unquestionably great. "But…"
"But what, Sakura?" asked the Uchiha to his now doubtful girlfriend.
"Naruto-ni-chan, you said you don't know the Resurrection though. How can you revive them?" Naruto smiled at her sister's sharpness, it appeared that his dark influence really rubbed of her over the years that he spent time with her.
"Don't worry about that, Sakura-chan," said Naruto wearing a grin. "I have my solutions."
"What could that be?" asked Lee who had been quiet for a surprisingly long amount of time.
"I do have the Forbidden scrolls of those techniques in my home," said the Death Knight. "Just because I hate my family and my clan, it doesn't mean I am not interested in past history of their powerful arts of ninjutsu, taijutsu and genjutsu. I found that they have sealed one-shot moves within powerful scrolls, I can tell that just about anyone could use it if they know the correct seals. I am not sure why they did that but I know this was a very effective way for shinobis to revive their fallen comrades in battle instead of having a Paladin to do it all the time. Using those, I am sure we can revive the some of the killed revolutionaries for Konoha's future."
"I remember such scrolls," said Tsunade with a smile. "Your clan really made a lot of money by selling them privately to all ranks of shinobis when they were still around. Like I said, your former clan wasn't noble for nothing. And you are right about them, Naruto, a lot of ninjas did find it very useful in an actual battle. I used it too a several times, it does work very well. No wonder you sounded so calm all this time during the conversation, you already have the capability to revive them."
"That's right," answered the Death Knight taking in another sip. "I knew those things would be useful some time. I just never would've thought that I would be using it on those cowards…" The rest of the gang grimaced knowing exactly how the demon male felt, he really despised them to the core and yet he was going to save them. If he actually loved them, in spite of all they have done Naruto would forgive them. But knowing that his feelings were completely opposite, it made him a very honourable young man.
"Ni-san… we are really sorry…" said Rin with guilt. Naruto's eyes scanned over everyone else, their expressions were grim or somewhere in that category. It was then when he decided to lighten up the mood in his own dark way.
"Don't be," he said encouragingly. "Why don't you picture it as that I could have more fun with them when they come back to life? I do look forward to that," Those who still felt a bit uncomfortable about his dark humour winced at his sudden will to see blood again. However, those who look at his words more deeply knew he was joking.
"You can't hurt anyone in the condition you are in now, ni-chan," said Sakura playfully punching his right arm. Hitting his left arm now will hurt him for certain.
"What about your promise to the village and us, Naruto-kun?" asked the Hyuga girl giving a fake pout. "If you kill anymore villagers, I won't marry you." Everyone's eyes suddenly went wide, it soon turned into pure entertainment while Naruto only snickered.
"Harsh," stated Neji with a very gladly, glad that he could hear such words escaping Hinata's lips. "That was very harsh, Naruto." Sasuke nodded agreeing with his captain.
"I know it is harsh," replied the Death Knight not intimidated. "However, I know she loves me too much to just not marry me." Hearing that, the Hyuga girl blushed slightly and pretended to ignore him. Of course, she failed miserably when Naruto started to laugh. She soon flushed even more when everyone joined him afterwards. She will get him a bit later, she guaranteed it. "So, if you need me to get the scrolls, am I allowed to leave the hospital then?"
"Yes, you are allowed to," said Tsunade giving a grin of gratitude and happiness. "But you still need to stay here until you are in better condition. You will not leave until your health gets better, understand?" Naruto let out a very noticeable curse before leaving the room to get the proper tools for the ritual in the near future. Hinata obviously followed him, she was his most personal nurse and she even made sure no other medics would treat him other than the doctors above her level. It wasn't because she wanted to hog him, no, Hinata was just too worried about him to let him do anything alone until he recovered.
(Another two days later, in the early morning)
Sitting on the ceiling of his apartment, the young Death Knight glanced from left to the right at the streets of his hometown. It was clearly a lot quieter than before. Seventeen hundred people disappeared in less than one week was something drastic. It was even more detectable when the village only had a several thousand to begin with. Now, the village has less than half of the original amount of people, it would be tough to get the entire act together with such limited power.
A sigh came out of the demon hunter as he stood up looking at his damaged left arm, which was now in heavy bandages instead of a cast. Seventeen hundred people died and all he lost was a repairable arm, he kept asking himself was this fight necessary to begin with? How many more pointless fools must be blinded by prejudice? How many more times does this have to happen again? Why was it that he had to keep fighting like this? Naruto didn't understand in spite of his high intellect, he just wanted to know why humanity can be such sinners.
Deep down, Naruto felt very hesitant and possibly even hated that he had to revive those eight hundred people. It was similar to the hunted giving up themselves to the hunters. Now Konoha had foolish persecutors again who wanted his demon dead. To be precise, they just wanted him dead. Although Tsunade gave a very strict, or deadly serious, order to never practice such actions again, Naruto knew better that these good for nothing people cursed every part of it. They didn't want to drop their hatred, they still despised Naruto regardless that it was him (He only provided the scrolls, other jounins and shinobis used them) that allowed them to live again because Konoha needed it, and yet they continued these foolish and pathetic ambitions. Although the Hokage ordered that next time would be execution if they showed any moral outrage at the demon, she had no control over what they thought about or what their perspectives were in life. What a waste of time trying to revive these people, as Naruto would say; things were sure hustling down towards the road of disaster.
"Naruto-kun," said a gentle voice in similar to a divine angel. Once Naruto felt something looped around his right arm and pressure was given on his right shoulder, he knew Hinata came by to comfort him. She was so considerate, no wonder why he loved her so much.
"Hello, Hina-chan," he said as he pulled her a bit closer by the waist. The girl then purred pleasantly, which made Naruto smile a bit more.
"Are you okay?" she asked as she held a bun to his mouth, telling him to eat it with her. The Death Knight took it easily before looking at her.
"I'm fine…"
"You worried about Rin?"
"What do you mean?" he asked her in a confused way, not knowing what she was saying.
"Rin left for the Sand this morning to tell Gaara what happened here," explained Hinata. "She told me to tell you so you don't need to believe that she was killed in any accident."
"Knowing Rin-chan, not a lot of people could kill her… But, why didn't she come to me first?"
"You were in the hospital and I was shopping with her," Hinata responded with a giggle. "I suppose that news just slipped my mind until now."
"Thanks for telling me that,"
"What were you thinking about before I came up here?"
"Just thinking about if the resurrection was a mistake…" he answered before taking in a bite.
"It couldn't be a wrong, Naruto-kun," she said encouragingly. "Konoha needs you."
"I feel like setting up a trap for myself to step on…" At that point, Hinata giggled at his metaphor. Naruto only raised a brow, what could she be laughing about? The Hyuga girl's cheeks turned a bit pink when she noticed that her fiancée was being silent, she then gave him a kiss.
"Don't think that way, Naruto-kun," stated Hinata as a hidden command, "Who cares what they think about you? You know they are wrong and you know your true friends are behind you all the way. If the villagers cannot realize or even refuse to acknowledge that you are wonderful, so be it. You do your own part, being a marvellous ninja to serve the village and be my faithful husband, while you allow those pitiful people to self destruct." After a few seconds to take in everything in, Naruto gave a charming smile before taking her lips into a deep kiss.
While they were in such an intimate moment, Naruto kept thinking about what she said. He cannot deny that Hinata changed a lot over these years. To be more accurate, the Hyuga girl gradually developed into the gorgeous young lady she was now. She still carried a sense of timidity everywhere, but once she adapted into the situation, which was very quick, she could be very involved therefore bringing harmony around. She was that kind of person who everyone wanted her to be around, and that brought upon confidence. Hinata no longer stuttered in her sentences (unless she is under pressure), her words were never meant to hurt anyone, she was never demanding (other than to have her Naruto) therefore overall she had major improvements. However, what pained Naruto was that she was always so depressed, she may put on a face saying she was okay, but when no one was around, she would break down and cry. Naruto knew it was his absence that caused all this to happen, and damn he would not allow it to happen again.
When both pulled away, Naruto gave a charming look to her knowing she was still in bliss, but nonetheless, she loved it very much. As soon as the Hyuga girl noticed his stare, his handsome gaze, she couldn't help but blush. However, it wasn't a timid blush, but a shade that told him that he was very appealing to her.
"Thank you, Hina-chan," said the Death Knight as he hugged her tightly. In a natural impulse, the girl simply gave the same emotion in her embrace for him. "You are too kind to me…"
"I'm glad that I can help, Naruto-kun," stated Hinata kissing his cheek.
"You know what?" he said pulling out of the warm embrace. "You want me to get your ring today?" Forming a gentle smile, the girl simply gave him another passionate kiss. No doubt she liked the idea, it was another step to be more intimate after all. Finally, her Naruto would settle down and live a life that was meant for him to live. He should never have experienced all this death, demonic corruption, and killing at such a young age. If he had been shown love when he was a boy, she wondered if his life would be different. It didn't matter now; it was all worth it, as Hinata would say.
As Hinata felt his tongue trying to enter her sweet mouth, who was she to discard such an opportunity? Smiling a bit, she simply allowed it to enter but caught it with her own pinning his down. That caused the demon hunter to gasp trying to break free with no avail. Oh, she loved it when she overpowered him, the Hyuga girl guaranteed that there would be a lot more other things that she could dominate in, and she will prove how good she would be. Of course, that would be after she received the ring.
(Late afternoon of the same day)
"You're kidding," said Neji along with Sasuke, Shikamaru, Lee, Tenten, Ino and Sakura in the family room of the Hyuga mansion to Hinata. "This ring looks absolutely beautiful…"
"Indeed," Sasuke concurred as he began to examine the ring on Hinata's left ring finger although he was not someone obsessed with jewellery. Lee nodded in agreement with astounding features. "How much was this?"
"SO BEAUTIFUL!" exclaimed the three girls as if it was the most precious thing they ever witnessed. Naruto and Shikamaru, who stayed away from the crowd, muttered a troublesome under their breath. Shikamaru couldn't care less about the engagement ring, all he needed to prove that he was happy for them, which Naruto already knew. The Death Knight, on the other hand, sure felt glad to make Hinata happy. However, he wasn't expecting this kind of loud result. He glanced over at the lazy jounin, whose bored face turned into a good smile as he turned around. Naruto only smiled back, silently thanking Shikamaru for his hidden blessing.
"Damn," said Sakura in a normal voice. "How much was this ring?"
"That's what I just asked," said Sasuke with a sense of exasperation.
"You mean the high articulated platinum and gold framed ring with the shiny pearl as the central attraction, along with eight diamonds surrounding it that is on my finger?" asked Hinata innocently with her charming smile.
"Yes," said Tenten flatly. "What else?" She then gave the other Hyuga a glare, which Neji gulped and whistled thus ignoring her. Neji could tell Tenten wanted a ring like that too, and what was worse was that they already made love and she still had no ring. The weapon mistress was not a materialistic person, but she would be more than happy and appreciated if she received one.
"Just so beautiful!" shouted Ino wanting to get one too. "I wish I had it."
"How much was it?" asked Lee knowing this was the third time this question was asked.
"Naruto-kun," called Hinata sweetly to her fiancée, who was talking to Shikamaru. Hearing her call, Naruto raised his head slightly to make eye contact. "How much was this ring?"
"A hundred and twenty thousand yen, (which is fifteen hundred Canadian)" answered Naruto with a grin. The other's eyes widened immediately and very evidently. Sasuke ran to Naruto immediately with the most un-Sasuke expression Naruto had ever seen.
"Are you loaded, Death Knight?" questioned the Uchiha quickly and his voice sounded so… desperate to know. He even called the assailant Death Knight, only Kyubi called him that.
"Sasuke-kun," said Sakura. "That's not nice, you shouldn't be asking ni-chan this!"
"Don't worry," said Naruto smiling with not much passion but a smile regardless. "I am rich enough to buy that ring. I am a Hidden-nin for many years after all."
"But why do you live in that dinky apartment?" questioned the thick brow Anbu. That subject certainly made the others more confused, why did he live in such a place if he was not poor? Hinata simply giggled at that while Naruto tried to come up with a justifiable response.
"No one needs to know that I have more than enough money," said Naruto. "Besides, I don't even use it for I don't need to."
"You should be giving Hinata a lot of gifts!" ordered Ino in a friendly way. "Now I want to be your girlfriend." The group laughed in unison.
"I don't think Naruto would want to spoil my little cousin, Ino," said Neji grinning a little. "Hinata-sama was never one would gets satisfied by only earthly things, only one thing could truly make her feel complete."
"That's ni-chan, of course!" declared the Haruno chunnin happily. "But…" she then narrowed her eyes at her brother, who was detecting something dangerous. "Why didn't you ever give me a present when we were younger? I wanted gifts too, you know!" Sakura wasn't angry but she wanted a reason. At the same time, Sasuke cold sweated knowing that he never gave that many presents himself, he knew he was in for it if Naruto didn't give a good and acceptable answer for he didn't have one right now. That outburst gave Tenten an idea too for Neji would not get away from it either. In addition, Ino, of course, would hunt her man down until she got what she wanted. Correction, it was more like what she needed for if she didn't level up the importance, Shikamaru would simply not care.
"I…" Naruto couldn't even speak the words properly. "I never considered that… I gave you stuff, sure I did. Jutsus, how to fight, how to be more cautious in life, how to live life, I gave you free lunch, dinner and breakfast… I just never gave you any physical objects." Hinata nodded to concur, that really was what Naruto did for them when Team 7 still existed. The green eye girl smiled warmly before giving her brother a big sisterly hug, a kiss on the cheek wouldn't hurt either.
"Thanks for being here, ni-chan," said Sakura before giving a too warm smile at the Uchiha. Lee chuckled silently when he noticed Sasuke's stiffening. Shikamaru and Neji wanted to kill the Death Knight for giving out such a complete answer, a little too complete rather. Now the girls would have their heads, and to avoid that subject for being brought up, Neji quickly changed the subject.
"So, Hinata-sama," he said. "When's the wedding?" The other three males aside from Lee gave a sigh of relief, what a good save that was.
"I talked to Father about it before we came in," answered Hinata sweetly. "He said it would be good in March or April. You know, since it would be spring."
"You got any objections about those dates, Naruto?" asked Shikamaru with a bit of curiosity.
"No," Naruto stated without much excitement. "I suppose that is a good time. It beats the summer, that's for certain." Sadly enough, all of them agreed in perfect unison.
"Can't believe you guys will be married so soon," said Sasuke putting a hand on the demon hunter's shoulder. "I hope you will have a successful marriage, Naruto. And you too, Hinata." Both of them gave a smile before nodding.
"What are you going to do after you get married, Hinata?" asked the blond hair girl with a knowing grin. "I'm sure Naruto wouldn't want to wait too long…"
"Ino-chan!" Hinata squeaked with a heavy blush. "Not so loud…"
"Oh," said Tenten snickering. "I thought you wanted it."
"Quit teasing Hinata-san, Tenten," said Lee defending the blushing girl. "It's a bit private and Naruto is here, you know."
"It's not like Naruto doesn't know," commented the weapon mistress emitting a laugh but her words were as silent as a whisper. She was considerate about Hinata's privacy nonetheless. "Relax, Lee."
"Yeah…"
"What about you, Naruto?" asked Neji nudging him a bit along with a grin. Sasuke carried the same expression but his was somewhat more conservative. "Will you make your princess happy?"
"I don't see why not…" replied the assailant eyeing his future brother in law with suspicion.
"Willing to go all the way?" he continued with the same amusement.
"Like I said," Shikamaru stated. "Based on how close you two are, I can't believe that you two are still you know…"
"Just drop the subject," ordered the Death Knight clearly not amused. "It's not your business regardless of how close of friends we are, okay?" Noticing the seriousness of his voice, Shikamaru, Sasuke and Neji did as they were told.
"We're sorry, Naruto," Sasuke said diffidently. "We shouldn't have done that."
"I'm sorry for being so hostile… I'll make it up to you guys, want me to treat you guys to dinner tonight?" The guys sure liked the idea, but they needed to know if the others agreed to this plan. Knowing that it would be a free dinner, why wouldn't they refuse? The four girls promptly answered in a cheerful manner, Naruto smiled at the reply. As the gang exited the room, Hinata held Naruto's hand lovingly. Once again, a simple "I love you" was enough to make his day that much better.
(Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Fire Country)
'Akamaru…' thought Kiba in much pain. 'I will avenge your death… I will kill that Uzumaki bastard before the day I die…' As Kiba grimaced and groaned with agony, he knew that he was dying.
With no food, not much shelter and a wounded body, the beast warrior's chances of living were diminishing in a quick pace. Furthermore, his ribs were broken badly, but now it began to affect his entire body for it was not healed. Breathing became difficult for it pained him to inhale, he also badly twisted his ankle when he carelessly tripped earlier, now he was lying on tree trunk awaiting a painful and inevitable death. What could possibly be done now? He carried no rations, no water, he was out of ninja weapons, and the will to survive and live was against him. What a pathetic way to die, thought Kiba, first he messed up the entire operation in Konoha, now he had to experience death like a loser.
"Damn you, Death Knight!" shouted Kiba loudly knowing that no one would be able to hear him. However, little did he know, someone heard it very clearly. Kiba was shocked when he heard a voice.
"Death Knight, you say?" questioned the mysterious blond figure walking out from the shadows with a long sword equipped on the left side of his body. The beast boy jerked immediately in a natural reaction, who the heck was this person? Judging by the sound of his voice, it seemed as if he knew a lot about these people.
"I said Death Knight alright," said Kiba panting.
"You seem hurt," stated the mystery man knowingly. "Need help?"
"Damn right I need it… What do you want?"
"Nothing much," he said very skilfully. "All I want from you is what you know about this Death Knight that you speak of." Knowledge about Naruto in exchange for chance to live, this had to be the best deal he could ever make. Giving a nod of agreement, the mystery person formed a set of seals that were completely unknown to Kiba. When he was done after two seconds, he was ready to help. "Holy Light." He stated as a bright flash of light struck Kiba but leaving him unharmed. Miraculously, the wounded Kiba felt a lot better. His ribs were fixed, ankle was no longer twisted, he had his stamina back. However, the only thing that wasn't cured was his thirst and hunger, but that could be satisfied later, "Now, my payment?"
"What do you want to know about this Death Knight?" asked Kiba with a very dry voice due to thirst. The blond man gave him a canteen and he swallowed all of it down in less than half a minute.
"Everything that you know would be fine."
"That demon is in Konoha," said Kiba finally having the strength to talk. "He killed over twenty five hundred people in one night! Not only that, some of the people in that village were his friends! His friends damn it! They helped him kill the village… he ruined my master plan! I should be victorious and claim Hinata but… DAMN HIM! I led the group to a guaranteed victory… how can that demon beat me? I hate him! I hate him! He stole Hinata away from me! I was supposed to be the winner!"
"Okay, okay," said the blond regretting that he asked this to begin with. All he wanted to begin with was the info on the Death Knight, not Kiba's life story. However, in spite of that, he found a several words that may be useful. "What is that Death Knight's name?"
"He's Uzumaki Naruto," replied Kiba with a spit. That enlightened the blond even more.
"Uzumaki Naruto… perfect…"
"What did you say?" asked Kiba curiously.
"Nothing much… Anyway, did you say that you were the leader of a revolution?" Kiba only declared a yes in a proud fashion. "You led a revolt on that Death Knight, didn't you?" He may be useful indeed.
"Of course I did, I hate him!"
"How much do you hate him?"
"I hate him enough to kill him!"
"Good. You and I are quite alike actually,"
"How so?" questioned Kiba eyeing the blond suspiciously.
"Don't look at me like that," ordered the mystery male. "What, you don't believe me? Forget it. My own leader would want to eliminate this demon as well, he has been trying for a long time already but yet he never was able to succeed."
"He wants to kill him too?" asked the beast master hopefully.
"Yes, he does. I am sure that my master is able to make you stronger too if you want to help him eliminate that wretched lieutenant of darkness."
"Increase my killing power to destroy Naruto? I am going to help you!"
"Glad that you see thing my way," I picked up a fool to help me kill the Death Knight so easily. It must be my lucky day… This guy amuses me.
"But who do you work for? Which village are you from?"
"I am from the Sound," said the blond man. "And who I work for is Orochimaru." Hearing that name, Kiba recoiled with stun and gladness. "I am glad to meet someone like you. Not only that, I am sure Orochimaru wouldn't mind having another determined ally. You do know your enthusiasm is very much needed. If I know him, he would make you one of his trusted lieutenants if you prove your worth."
"I can do that," stated Kiba confidently. "But… I am not merely strong enough to take down that Death Knight and his friends…"
"Don't worry about that," said the Sound ninja. "Orochimaru will definitely make you stronger. You have my word on it. Are you willing to help the Sound?" This had to be the most fortunate day in his life. He was down in the dumps just moments ago, and now he was healed. In addition, this man offered him both power and gave him knowledge that other supporters existed. Kiba narrowed his eyes when he observed that man in front of him, there was this distinct aura about him that he couldn't fully catch. Sure, he was mysterious, had a sword as a weapon just like Naruto but sleeker, tall, not much older than himself, but the forehead protector that was wrapped on his neck clearly showed that he was part of the Sound. Despite what kind of slow moron Kiba was, the beast master could tell this man was not ordinary. He possessed Holy Light, a jutsu that Kiba never heard of and damn, it was effective. Similarly, he knew this blond also had a sense of hatred toward the Death Knight subject. If he hated Naruto too, Kiba considered him a friend. "Well?"
"I am more than willing to help you," said Kiba outstretching his hand and the other young male shook it in a neutral way without much passion. However, he still held a grin. "I am Inuzuka Kiba."
"Nice to meet you then, Kiba-san," stated the Sound-nin smirking. This is just perfect… I know you are no spy from Konoha, your hatred is too great towards the Death Knight to be a lie, Kiba-san…
"What's your name?"
"I will tell you when the time is more appropriate. Right now, let's head to the Sound and allow Orochimaru know about your new arrival." Agreeing immediately, both shinobis leaped to the branches without saying a word to another but a grin plastered on their face. Kiba's excitement was obvious, yet the Sound-nin's grin contained another reason. So… Uzumaki Naruto, is it? I have finally found you… I can't wait to see what is going to happen to you… Knowing that you are alive and picking up an over-determined fool to aid in my bidding, I wonder what kind of hell you will see when we meet face to face…
AN: Updates would be within a week or two weeks, depending on my schedule during the Boxing Week. Feel free to ask any questions for I will be more than happy to answer them for you. Everyone who is reading this, I wish you all a happy, safe and meaningful holiday! My other Christmas present for you guys have to be 9mm Assault Rifles, M-249s, automatic shotguns, Commandos, Sniper Rifles, Mp5s, and such weapons so you guys can gun me downquicker next time if Idecide to put in another cliff-hanger in the future chapters to come. If you choose to review as a Christmas present for me, that would be very much appreciated! Now, there will be taking a short break for I need to get to a place where I can clean up my fresh wounds… and for you guys to reload…
