Rivals or Lovers?
Chapter 2 : Bad News
Synopsis : Orochimaru wants Sasuke. Itachi wants Naruto. For both their safety, Tsunade makes a hard decision. They'll have to live together under the same roof. With time, perhaps they'll get to know each other better......... Unless they kill each other first.........
Pairings : Sasuke x Naruto (Soon to come I promise)
Other Pairings : Undetermined for now
WARNINGS : Will contain SHONEN-AI, in other words, boy loves boy. If you don't like then don't read.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION :
- Would be good for you reviewers to have read up to Manga Volume 20, since I start the story from there.
- Tsunade is now the 5th Hokage and already is in the village
- Takes place after Naruto, Sasuke and Jiraiya encountered Uchiha Itachi for the first time in Konoha Village. And when Naruto and Jiraiya brought back Shizume and Tsunade to become the 5th Hokage.
- And Naruto might be a bit OCC at sometimes, since he's kinda depressed so you've been warned
JAPANESE WORDS
- Baka = idiot -
- Arigatou = Thank You -
- naruhodo = I see -
- Iie = No -
- Chikushou – Damn it / Damn
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---Recap---
Kurenai giggled a little as Asuma smiled. Gai was mostly satisfied at how Tsunade had commented on Kakashi's bad habit of reading such perverted books. All four vanished from the room, now leaving only Tsunade, Jiraiya and Shizune there.
"We have to talk" Jiraiya said seriously
Tsunade lifted an eyebrow as she wondered what he meant. She crossed her arms, as she sat on the edge of the desk.
"I thought we were finished?" Tsunade pointed out as she stared at Jiraiya
"With them yes, but I wanted to talk to you about Naruto" Jiraiya warned her
"Naruto? Did he do something again?" Tsunade asked
"Not really. I'm worried about him though" Jiraiya told her with a serious tone
"Why?" Tsunade asked
"I thought that if I brought him to get you back here, he'd get better, but it seems that I was wrong" Jiraiya started to explain
"How bad is it?" Tsunade asked again
"It's hard to tell. Ever since his encounter with Itachi, he's been questioning himself as well as hiding his real emotions to everyone" Jiraiya replied
"He's putting on a false smile and a happy attitude to hide his deeper feelings isn't he?" Tsunade wanted to confirm
"Most likely. His mask is breaking, so it isn't wise to leave him alone, or it could get worse than it already is" Jiraiya stated as he took a look outside
"Get worse?" Tsunade asked with concern
"Hai, after we left him in that Uchiha's room, Naruto didn't even stay, he went out on the training grounds. I found him laying there all bruised up and unconscious and it seems he used his Rasengan so many times that his right hand is burned pretty badly. He's back home now, all bandaged up but the why he did it, I don't know" Jiraiya answered
"I never imagined Naruto would do something so careless........." Tsunade let out
"Can you blame him? After all, most people ignore him and hate him because of what's inside of him. I'm still impressed how he managed to make it this far and still smile to everyone despite his hard life." Jiraiya commented
"I know Jiraiya. But Naruto's problems just got worse. With the organization that Itachi's part of being after the poor boy complicates things. And that now Orochimaru still wants that Uchiha Sasuke adds more to it." Tsunade mentioned
"That's just great! Itachi wants Naruto, more like Kyubi, and our insane former teammate wants that Uchiha boy for unknown reasons. So how are you planning to deal with this one?" Jiraiya asked
"Me? Like I know what I should do!" Tusnade yelled out
"Well, Tsunade-sama you are the fifth Hokage now........." Shizune reminded her friend
"Why did I take this job?" Tsunade asked herself as she looked up at the ceiling
"Because of the brat" Jiraiya laughed a little
"Normally I'd have an Anbu team follow their every movement. But because of what that asshole of a snake did, well I can't spare any Anbu right now." Tsunade commented as she slapped her forehead to get some ideas
"Well, leaving the boys to live alone isn't really safe." Jiraiya commented
"I know that! But it's not like I can just put them under the same roof" Tsunade let out as she closed her eyes
"Wouldn't be a bad idea. After all, you're Hokage now, you can do what you want" Jiraiya reminded her
"But it would be suicidal to get those two boys to live under the same roof, from what I've read in the reports by Kakashi and Iruka, those two are like cat and dog, rivals, they can't stand each other. They'll kill each other before Orochimaru or Itachi do anything" Tsunade stated as she glared at the sennin
"I heard and know about their rivalry and how they try to be better than the other one. But if you don't do something soon, Naruto will have a mental breakdown if not worse and for Sasuke, seeing his older brother back in the picture who was more interested in your long time rival and not you can piss anyone off to do something stupid." Jiraiya told the way he thought to her
"Jiraiya-sama has a good point" Shizune commented
"If I do this Jiraiya, I want you to check up on the boys to make sure they don't do anything stupid. And help me out to manage this whole thing as well." Tsunade requested from the sennin
Jiraiya nodded as he agreed to the terms Tsunade spoke of.
"Before you go back to Naruto's apartment, I'd appreciate it if you went to check up on the Uchiha kid while you're out. As for tomorrow, you'll show up here, as Kakashi brings his team into the office." Tsunade ordered him
"So I guess that means ........." Jiraiya started with a small smile as Tsunade cut in
"Hai, Uzumaki Naruto and Uchiha Sasuke will start to live under the same roof for their own safety and the Village." Tsunade finished as she looked into Jiraiya's eyes
--- Chapter 2 : Bad News ---
A long silence came in the room, as Tsunade knew very well that for the time being, it was the best solution for both boys.
"I'll give you some time to prepare for tomorrow" Jiraiya let out with a smile
"Just don't forget to check up on them" Tsunade reminded the sennin
"Hai hai" Jiraiya smiled as he left her new office
Shizune looked over at her friend to see how exhausted she actually was. Tsunade rubbed her hand against her forehead, before she walked towards the window to have a look outside.
"I pray things won't get worse........." Tsunade let out with a low tone as she looked upon the Village
Her friend walked over as she placed a hand on Tsunade's shoulder, in hopes to comfort her friend of the tasks that await her tomorrow.
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*Uchiha's Residence*
Jiraiya approached the residence carefully, since he didn't want the boy to detect him and ask a multitude of questions, especially about the blond brat. Since the first time they met, it didn't go so well because of Naruto's state of mind and body.
Jiraiya crawled his way into a tree, and advanced on the branch when he found a good enough place where he could peak through the windows and into the Uchiha house.
---Inside the House---
Sasuke sat down on his bed, as he slowly removed his shirt because of his injury that Itachi gave him. Once the shirt removed, he had bandages wrapped around his waist.
He discarded his shirt to the floor, as he looked to his right on his nightstand. On his nightstand, there was a picture of Team seven, where Sakura had her tongue out, Naruto made a peace and love sign. Sasuke had his emotionless face, as Kakashi stood behind the trio with a hand that rested on each boy's shoulder and smiled.
Sasuke leaned forward, while he tried to be in more pain that he already was and grabbed the picture frame. He brought it closer to his face as he seemed to be examining it.
"I just don't get it......... Why would that bastard want Naruto for? That dobe use to be a dobe......... But since the Chuunin exams, he's getting stronger than me......... How am I suppose to avenge my clan if that baka's stronger than me........." Sasuke continued to ask himself many questions
For several minutes, Sasuke stared at the picture, as was angry but also envied Naruto in many ways. He then placed the picture frame back on the nightstand, as Sasuke laid on his bed, while his eyes stared up at the ceiling.
"Am I really worthless.........?" Sasuke asked himself before going to sleep
---Outside the House---
Jiraiya had overheard part of the conversation, but waited until the boy fell asleep to leave. At least he knew he wouldn't go anywhere for the night.
Jiraiya jumped down to the ground, as he started to walk towards his next destination, Naruto's apartment.
"On the outside, that boy shows no feeling. But inside, he's still human." Jiraiya let out his thought
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*Naruto's Apartment*
As Iruka entered the Apartment of his former student, his eyes widened in surprise of how it was clean. No dirty dishes on the kitchen counter and table no dirty clothes on the floor. Hell there wasn't even dust in the house and it didn't have that little strange smell like each time Iruka came over.
"This.........This can't be where Naruto lives........." Iruka let out in shock
Iruka walked around , while he looked into every room and found them all cleaned up. He then made his way towards Naruto's bedroom.
---Naruto's Bedroom---
Iruka slowly opened the door as he took a quick look inside the room. As He entered the room, he left the door a crack open, while he made his way towards the blonde's bed.
Near the nightstand, there was wooden chair. Iruka took hold and slide it as close as possible to Naruto's bed. Iruka simply tossed aside the jumpsuit Naruto always wore on the floor as his eyes never left the blond.
"He even cleaned his room........." Iruka whispered to himself as his eyes scanned the room
The room was mostly dark, as the curtains on the windows were all closed and prevented the sunlight from entering.
"Stop........." Naruto repeated weakly still in deep sleep
This caught Iruka's attention immediately as he wanted to reassure the boy while he tried to understand what his former student meant. He reached out to take his right hand into his own when he noticed the bandages on Naruto wrist and hand.
"What the .........?" Iruka stared at the wounded hand, unsure what to do
Iruka lifted the covers a little to notice Naruto had bruises almost everywhere when he heard the door slightly open behind him.
"You shouldn't disturb the boy right now." Jiraiya stared at the Chuunin
"What the hell happened to him!?" Iruka raised his voice
"Shhh. Let him rest. If you want to talk, come in the kitchen." Jiraiya ordered him
Iruka wanted to protest but deep down knew that he should have this discussion elsewhere so that Naruto could get the rest he needed.
Iruka covered the blond as he was before as he walked out of Naruto's room, and made sure not to make any sounds, as he closed the door behind himself and Jiraiya.
---Kitchen---
Jiraiya leaned against the wall, as he kept an eye out on Iruka, since the Chuunin was very protective over the boy.
"He wasn't wounded this morning! How the hell did he get wounded!?" Iruka lashed out at the sennin
"Calm down Iruka" Jiraiya requested as he waved his hands defensively
Despite how he felt on the moment, Iruka forced himself to calm down, as he pulled out a chair and sat down. He pressed his hand against his forehead as he exhaled deeply enough to be heard by the sennin.
"He was training alone. I found him unconscious on the ground. He seemed to have used Rasengan too many times to the point he burned his hand." Jiraiya started to explain calmly
"Rasengan? Isn't that one of your attacks?" Iruka asked
Jiraiya only nodded as Iruka felt the urge to kick the sennin for teaching such a technique to Naruto.
"Why teach him something that dangerous!?" Iruka demanded an answer
"The boy has great potential. And if I hadn't taught him that in the first place, the little bastard wouldn't be here right now." Jiraiya informed Iruka with a serious look
"Jiraiya-sama, he's your student, are you going to do like Kakashi? Abandon the poor boy when he needs you?" Iruka asked the sennin with a dead serious tone
"Don't insult me. I have no intention of abandoning the boy, especially in the state he is right now" Jiraiya shot back with an angry tone
"How bad?" Iruka asked with a worried look
"I don't know yet........." Jiraiya answered as Iruka lowered his head
---Naruto's bedroom---
Naruto was currently having around the same nightmare as the nice before, as his hands started to shake a little. The boy seemed to be struggling in his dreams as in his mind, he heard evil voices.
"You have only yourself to blame little kitsune" Itachi told him
"It isn't my fault.........IT ISN'T MY FAULT!" Naruto yelled out
Naruto's eyes shot open as the boy sat up straight in his bed, panting hard from the nightmare he had yet again.
"Why? Why did I have to be cursed?" Naruto asked himself over and over again
---Kitchen---
As Iruka was about to ask another question, they heard a yell coming from Naruto's bedroom. Both ninjas exchanged worried looks, as Iruka was the first to rush into his former student's room.
---Naruto's Bedroom---
Iruka nearly kicked the door open, when he saw Naruto who was awake in his bed, shaking like a leaf. Naruto was too focused on his nightmare to even notice the presence of Jiraiya and Iruka, until he heard his name being called and a hand touching his shoulder.
"Naruto?" Iruka softly said as he looked at the boy with worried eyes
"Iruka-sensei?" Naruto let out as he looked being his former sensei
Jiraiya stood in the doorframe but still worried about Naruto's recent behavior, as he crossed his arms and observed.
"How did I get here?" Naruto asked as he looked into Iruka's eyes
"Jiraiya-sama found you unconscious and brought you here a few hours ago." Iruka answered as he sat on the chair next to his bed
"Oh......... Then why are you here?" Naruto asked
"I came to check up on my student! When you refused ramen you worried me a lot!" Iruka raised his voice against the boy
Naruto backed away a little as he waved his hands defensively, when he stopped and looked at his right hand.
"That's what happens when you use Rasengan too many times brat" Jiraiya commented
Naruto stared at his hand a few seconds, before he used it to scratch the back of his head and give his normal grin.
"He's hiding something........." Jiraiya thought as he noticed Naruto had put his fake smile on
"You should rest Naruto" Iruka
Naruto only nodded, as Iruka lifted up the covers so that Naruto could lay down more easily. Naruto rested his head on the pillow, as Iruka covered the boys with the blankets.
"I'll treat you to some ramen tomorrow" Iruka whispered to the boy with a smile across his lips
Naruto simply nodded as he had a light smile across his lips. Now reassured, Iruka stood up, walked by Jiraiya that still stood in the doorframe and left the blonde's room. Jiraiya closed the light as he took one last look at his student.
"You can't fool me Naruto......... Hopefully things will get better when you're no longer alone........." Jiraiya thought before he left as well and closed the door behind him
In the darkness of the room, Naruto's eyes remained open, as those eyes looked both sad and hurt. The blond curled up under the covers, while he brought his knees to his chest and wrapped his arms around them.
"How long can I last like this?" Naruto asked himself as he knew very well he wouldn't get any more sleep tonight.
--- Kitchen ---
Both ninjas walked back into the kitchen, as Jiraiya showed the front door to Iruka.
"You have classes tomorrow morning Iruka. It's best you get some rest. I'll watch over him tonight." Jiraiya reassured the Chuunin
"Demo........." Iruka started but Jiraiya interrupted him before he could finish
"If anything changes I'll be sure to warn you." Jiraiya let out
Iruka smiled slightly, as he left Naruto's house but still was worried about his former student.
Jiraiya sat down at the kitchen table, as he got out a bottle of sake and started to pour some in a dish. He took small sips into it as his attention remained on the closed door to Naruto's bedroom.
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*The Next Morning*
--- Naruto's Bedroom ---
Naruto rubbed his eyes so that his vision wouldn't be blurry like it currently was. He finally opened his eyes, as he was about to get out of be. Since he was still wrapped inside the covers, his foot couldn't come loose as he fell off his bed with a loud 'thump' sound was heard. Naruto groaned as he managed to get the covers off him and stand up.
"That hurt........." Naruto said as he rubbed his head
He then looked at his hand, but still felt the slight pain in it. His eyes showed he was a bit confused since he had tried to sleep during the night despite the continuous nightmare he had.
"Why didn't Kyubi's chakra heal me yet?" Naruto asked himself as he stared at his wounded hand
--- Kitchen ---
Naruto stepped out of his room, as he found the pervert asleep in a chair, with his scrap book in one hand and a pen in the other. Naruto had an evil smile on his lips as he grabbed a metal pot from the kitchen counter and lifted it high in the air next to the sennin.
"This is going to be funny" Naruto thought as he let go of his pot
the metal pot reached the floor and made a loud sound, as Jiraiya jumped out of his chair and landed face first on the cold floor of the kitchen.
"What the hell!?" Jiraiya yelled out as he quickly stood up
"That's for all the times you woke me up with cold water" Naruto told the sennin as he stuck out his tongue and smiled
Jiraiya smiled a little but then gave a little slap behind the boy's head. By instinct, Naruto grabbed his head as though it hurt as he closed his eyes for a moment, and waited for things to calm down.
"So, care to explain why you're in my apartment ero-sennin?" Naruto asked calmly as he made his way towards his refrigerator
Naruto took out a some milk as he was about to pour himself a glass of it, when the sennin looked at him with a serious look and crossed hi arms.
"Why did you over used the Rasengan Naruto?" Jiraiya asked with a serious tone
The moment his sensei asked him that question, Naruto stopped what he was doing as he placed the milk carton on the kitchen counter and looked down. He had no desire to answer as he looked at his wounded hand and remembered again that nightmare.
"None of your business" Naruto replied
"Drink your glass of milk and get dressed" Jiraiya ordered his student
"Huh?" Naruto gave a confused look
"We're going to see Tsunade this morning. So hurry up already" Jiraiya demanded
Naruto was still confused to why his teacher would simply drop the subject, sicne he usually beat the answer out of him. Naruto drank his milk quickly as he returned to his bedroom, not once looking into the sennin's eyes.
"What is wrong Naruto?" Jiraiya asked himself as his eyes changed for a few seconds from serious to worry and concern for his student
--- Bedroom ---
Naruto opened his drawer as he pulled out a pair of black jeans and the basic ninja like shirt, along with a second t-shirt that was a dark red, with the symbol of the leaf imprinted on the back.
Naruto dressed himself as he looked himself in the mirror with the new look. He found that this suited him better than his orange jumpsuit for now, but the way his headband was across his forehead and the style of his hair din't match the rest of himself.
He then also noticed he needed to change those bandages around his hand since they looked dirty and a bit bloody. He walked towards his bathroom to get new bandages as he unwrapped the old ones around his hand.
Once the bandages were off, Naruto looked down on his hand to see how much damage it actually was. His hand had many cuts here and there that had seemed to slowly heal, while in the palm of his hand, his skin remained blood red since it was burned due to his over use of Rasengan.
"Strange, even though it looks bad, I don't feel much pain" Naruto told himself while he threw the used bandages into the trashcan
Naruto washed his hands carefully not to open any of the cuts and then wrapped the brand new bandages , but started from the elbow to each of his fingers. Although his hand was the most wounded, Naruto still had a few cuts up to his elbow and decided it would be wiser to simply cover the whole thing.
Now his entire fingers, hand, wrist and up to his elbow were covered in new white bandages. He closed and open his fist many times to verify that he could still move freely if needed.
"Good, if I need to train today I'll be able to still depend on my hand" Naruto thought as he then looked into the mirror
He didn't like the way his hair and headband were placed, and decided to change that look he always had. He untied his headband and tied it back around his left shoulder like Shikamaru. As for his hair, he simply didn't want to have spiky hair for now, and simply placed his hands under the water and soaked his hair. His hair now fell on each side of his hair as a few strands were near his eyes.
Naruto looked again in the mirror, now satisfied with this look and walked out of the room to join Jiraiya and get ready to leave.
--- Kitchen ---
"Why is he taking so long?" Jiraiya asked himself when he heard the door open
When Naruto stepped out, Jiraiya was very surprised of how his student was actually dressed. This wasn't the usual Naruto he new, where was his jumpsuit? But something caught his eyes quickly, his right hand and elbow were bandaged.
"What's with the new look kid?" Jiraiya asked
"Got nothing else" Naruto answered
"Your hand hasn't healed?" Jiraiya asked as he stared at Naruto's wounded hand
"Yeah, Kyubi's been a pain in the ass lately. If you're done with the question, then let's go" Naruto replied with a cold stone
Naruto walked out of his house as he waited for his sensei to leave his apartment as well. Jiraiya was surprised of how Naruto had answered him. This time he knew things for the boy would be getting worse if Naruto continued this way.
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*Sasuke's House*
Sasuke had been awake early in the morning, thinking about what Jiraiya told him, and the need to see Naruto for an unknown reason. He shook the feeling off as he ate his breakfast and prepared to go to the training grounds. After all, Team 7 was meeting at their usual place since Kakashi and Sasuke were back and Naruto had returned form an unknown mission.
"Naruto better be there" Sasuke thought
Sasuke grabbed his black shorts and black shirt to get himself dressed up, as he then attached his holsters on his leg. He then headed out to the training grounds with one thought in mind, seeing Naruto.
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*Training Grounds*
On the bridge, Sakura leaned against the ramp, arms crossed, as she waited for her all time crush to appear, as well as Naruto and Kakashi. Sasuke finally arrived as he seemed lost within his own thoughts since he didn't notice a pink haired girl yelling out his name.
"Ohayo Sasuke-kun!" Sakura waved her hand to him
"Hn" Sasuke let out as he stuffed his hands in his pockets and leaned against a tree
While Sasuke stayed silent, Inner Sakura couldn't help but think of the many ways she could be with Sasuke and then the thought of Naruto coming in the way all the time surfaced, as well as their teacher always being late.
--- 15 minutes later ---
"Strange......... Dobe should have been here by now........." Sasuke thought until he heard of a high pitch voice from the pink haired girl
"Where the hell is Naruto and Kakashi-sensei!?" Sakura yelled out as she waved her fists around in anger
The sound poof is heard as Kakashi appears in his usual stance and waved to his two students.
"Ohayo" Kakashi said with a hidden smile
Sakura's jaw almost dropped on the ground as Sasuke remained unchanged.
"You're only 15 minutes late and not 3 hours........." Sakura let out in shock
"Well Sakura, nothing happened today for me to arrive late" Kakashi explained
Sakura looked at her sensei dumbfounded while Sasuke walked closer to them.
"No mission today, but Hokage-sama wants to see us, so we're heading there right now" Kakashi informed his student
"Kakashi-sensei, shouldn't we wait for Naruto?" Sakura asked a bit puzzled
"Iie, Jiraiya-sama must be bringing him in as well" Kakashi explained
"Demo......... Naruto's part of ........." Sakura was about to ask when Kakashi stood behind her and placed a hand on her shoulder
"Drop it Sakura" Kakashi demanded as he walked away and headed towards the Hokage's office
Sakura was still confused but knew that her sensei was serious about the topic. Sasuke frowned a little as he stuffed his hands back into his pockets and soon followed their sensei.
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*Hokage's Chamber*
Tsunade sat alone in her office, as she seemed discouraged by all the paperwork she still had to do before she could get any rest. She leaned back a little as she rubbed her forehead and closed her eyes.
"Today is going to be a hard day" Tsunade thought as she took a look outside
Knock Knock
"Enter" Tsunade said as she sat back in normal position
Her friend Shizume came inside the office with another load of papers for Tsunade to sign. She placed them on the corner of the desk, while she glared at her friend.
"When is this going to end?" Tsunade asked herself as Shizume showed her a paper that she needed to sign
"It seems that Jiraiya-sama and Naruto-kun have arrived. Should I send them in?" Shizume asked as she took back the papers Tsunade had finished signing
"Show them in then. And when Kakashi arrives with Haruno Sakura and Uchiha Sasuke, tell them I'll be right with them after I'm finished with the brat" Tsunade requested from her friend
Shizume nodded as she exited the office, leaving Tsunade lost in her own thoughts and concern over the situation Konoha was currently facing.
--- In the Hall ---
Naruto leaned against the wall, arms crossed, as Jiraiya stood near him, but kept a close eye on the boy himself, still concerned over his resent behavior.
"The old hag better not make us wait too long" Naruto growled
"Try not to call her that too often, she might scold you harder next time" Jiraiya asked from the boy
At that moment, Shizume walked towards them and motioned them it was ok for them to go inside.
"Tsunade-sama will receive you now" Shizume informed them as she pointed to her office
Naruto walked pass Shizume without a word, as the female couldn't take her eyes of the blond as she prepared to hold him back.
"Don't" Jiraiya told her
Shizume turned around to face Jiraiya and saw the serious look in his face.
"What happened to Naruto-kun?" Shizume asked with worry
"He's been like this since Itachi returned to Konoha. Only difference is with each passing day, he seems to get worse." Jiraiya explained
"Then I do hope he gets better soon" Shizume let out
"That's Naruto isn't it? He'll be fine" Jiraiya reassured her with a smile
Shizume smiled back as she continued to walk in the hall, preparing to do her other chores, while Jiraiya took back his serious look as he watched the back of his only student enter the office.
"Hopefully, Tsunade will make you talk" Jiraiya thought as he prepared to go inside the office as well when a high pitched voice caught his attention
At the entrance of the building, Kakashi's team had finally made it, as Kakashi looked around to notice Jiraiya standing near Hokage's office door. Both adults exchanged eye piercing looks.
"Sasuke-kun! How about we........." Sakura started but Sasuke immediately cut her off
"No" Sasuke coldly said
Sakura lowered her head as once again she had been turned down, but most of all she didn't even have time to finish her sentence and already Sasuke had answered.
"After all I did, he still doesn't like me........." Inner Sakura thought
"Naruto must already be in Tsunade-sama's office." Kakashi thought as he saw the sennin retreating into the office
"How long do we have to wait?" Sakura asked
"Tsunade-sama should come get us when she's ready to receive us" Kakashi answered with a hidden smile because of his masked face
"Kakashi, wasn't that Naruto's .........?" Sasuke started to ask but Kakashi interrupted him
"Hai, Naruto must be in her office." Kakashi replied
Sasuke remained silent as he recalled how he first talked to the sennin about Naruto.
--- FLASHBACK ---
"Uchiha Sasuke right?" Jiraiya asked
"Hai, and mind telling me why you're in dobe's house?" Sasuke asked with a serious tone
"Dobe? Well your so called dobe, is in there finally getting some rest, so leave the brat alone" Jiraiya replied with a defensive tone
"He never sleeps in the afternoon he'd be out training right now" Sasuke stated a bit surprised by the response the man had given him
"Take it from me boy, you don't know your teammate as well as you think you do. As for some information, while you were having your beauty sleep, Naruto was almost killed, so you'll understand if I insist you stay away from this apartment. You can see him tomorrow" Jiraiya warned the boy before him
Sasuke didn't like the way this man treated him but he decided not to press in the manner, for now. So Sasuke simply turned his back to the sennin, put his hands in his pockets and walked away.
--- END OF FLASHBACK ---
"What the hell happened after that bastard came?" Sasuke asked himself when he felt a hand on his shoulder
Sasuke looked up to notice Kakashi standing behind him and smiled at him.
"We'll wait over there until Naruto and Jiraiya get out" Kakashi informed his student
Sasuke simply nodded as he tried to shake the feeling he was getting, while both student followed their sensei to the waiting area.
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*Tsunade's Office*
The first thing that caught Tsunade's eyes were the way Naruto was dressed, and seemed to be in a serious mood instead of being utterly annoying. Tsunade stood up as she walked towards Naruto while she gave a glare at Jiraiya to let him know she noticed something wasn't normal.
"Hey old hag" Naruto said without hesitation
"Baka, I told you not to call her that!" Jiraiya gave a small punch behind the boy's head
"But that's how you always call her ero-sennin" Naruto let out as he rubbed the back of his head
Tsunade shot a death glare at Jiraiya as he couldn't help but waved his hands around defensively on the remark Naruto had just given.
"We'll talk about this later. For now, we have a more important matter to talk about now ........." She was about to continue when she noticed Naruto's hand all bandaged up. "What happened? You didn't have this yesterday" Tsunade asked as she reached for the hand but Naruto moved back quickly to evade her hand
"It's nothing, so leave it alone" Naruto mumbled as he placed his unharmed hand and touched the damaged one
Tsunade was a bit surprised by the way Naruto reacted to her wanting to help the poor boy. She then looked back at Jiraiya as they exchanged worried looks.
"Naruto, how would you feel if I were to tell that you'll share a house with someone?" Tsunade asked smoothly trying not to make the boy panic more than he already was
"I'd rather stay alone in that case" Naruto coldly replied and shock both adults for the second time in the last few minutes. "Home is the only place where I don't have those cold eyes looking at me........" Naruto mentally told himself as his eyes betrayed how he truly felt and showed sadness
"His eyes always showed his true feelings no matter how hard he tried to hide them........" Tsunade thought as she observed the blond
"Look Naruto, Itachi might come back any time to get you, we can't afford to lose you......." Jiraiya started to explain when Naruto turned around to face his teacher with a certain hate in his eyes
"Why don't you all simply say that it's so Itachi doesn't get his hands on Kyubi and use it against this village huh!?" Naruto yelled out in anger
"Naruto, calm down" Tsunade urged the boy as she placed her hand on his shoulder
"Whatever" Naruto mumbled as he slapped the hand off his shoulder and ran out of the office
Unfortunately, Jiraiya didn't have the time to grab the little fox before he stormed out of the office, as Tsunade and himself chased him.
--- In The Hall ---
Kakashi leaned against the wall as he was reading his Come Come Paradise, while Sakura made little circles with the tip of her toe on the ground, while Sasuke simply stared at the office door.
The door opened wide and slammed against the wall, as a tuff of blond hair could be seen quickly walking out to exit the building.
"Naruto?" Sasuke thought as he walked towards the figure
Kakashi noticed that the boy that was leaving was actually Naruto, as he found a running Jiraiya and Tsunade chasing the boy in the hall. Kakashi closed his book and discarded it, while Sakura stayed in place not knowing what she should actually do.
"Chikushou, I don't need any more hateful eyes on me day and night" Naruto thought when a hand grabbed his shoulder and forced him to turn around
"Stay put brat" Jiraiya hissed as Tsunade appeared behind the blond boy
"Let me go!!!" Naruto demanded as he waved his fists around
Jiraiya held the boy down firmly as Tsunade, Kakashi, Sakura and Sasuke joined them. Naruto continued to struggle until he saw Sasuke on his right side. Naruto immediately stopped struggling, eyes wide open as he looked away to not meet the eyes of the Uchiha boy.
"Seems that seeing Uchiha Sasuke calmed him down" Tsunade and Jiraiya thought the same thing as they noticed Naruto's change of behavior
"Jiraiya, bring him back in my office" Tsunade ordered her former comrade
Jiraiya nodded, as he picked up the boy and carried him back into the office. Through all this, Sasuke's eyes never left the blond, as he found himself staring at Naruto's wounded hand and clothing.
"What's wrong with him?" Sasuke asked
"This does not concern you for now Sasuke. Now, if you would please come in my office as well." Tsunade requested as she pointed to her door
Sasuke gave a stare as Kakashi pushed lightly the boy forward so he would enter the room as well. Kakashi made a sign to Sakura to follow them as well.
"Hopefully what I'm about to tell those two will help them both out, mostly Naruto........." Tsunade thought before she walked back into her office and closed the door behind her
--- Inside the Office ---
Jiraiya stood behind his student on the left side of the office, while Kakashi stood behind his two students, Sasuke and Sakura on the right side of the office. Both senseis stood behind their students with hands resting on their shoulders.
Tunade walked in as she stopped and turned around to face both small parties in the middle of the office, as she couldn't help but take a look over at Naruto from time to time.
Although Sasuke didn't show it, he sneakily looked over at Naruto and had a more close look about his wounded hand, but then noticed how Naruto couldn't look at his rival in the eyes.
"What the hell happened after I was defeated?" Sasuke asked himself when the voice of Tsunade caught his attention
"As you both know, Konoha has been on alert ever since the invasion of Orochimaru and the sand-ninjas as well as the appearance of Uchiha Itachi. We lost many of our ninjas as the others are still recovering." Tsunade started to explain, hands placed on her hips
"Your point?" Sasuke coldly asked
"Orochimaru wants you Sasuke, for reasons we don't know. Uchiha Itachi wants Naruto, for reasons unknown as well. I have no Anbu to spare to guard you, and I have no intention of making you move in with your teacher, Hatake Kakashi." Tsunade continued
Each time Tsunade spoke the name of his older brother, a sudden rage filled Sasuke, as his Sharingan appeared without him actually summoning it. Kakashi felt the boy tense up at the name being mention as he gently caressed the boy's shoulder to calm him down.
On Naruto's side, the blond couldn't focus much on what the female sennin spoke of, as the only thing that ran through his mind was to get out of there and go train until he couldn't think of anything anymore.
"What I'm trying to say boys, is that you're both living alone in your apartment and house, which makes it even more dangerous for you to be compromised. And so I came to the only solution possible for the moment." Tsunade continued as she took a deep breath and crossed her arms
"Is that why you asked me earlier about me not living alone anymore?" Naruto mumbled
"Hai, the solution most fitting for both of you, is to live together, under the same roof, as roommates, for your own safety." Tsunade finished as she awaited the outburst from the blond boy
TBC
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Another chapter written although it could have been better in my opinion. Think I'm slowly getting Naruto into depression or something, but no worry Sasuke will bring him back normal I hope........
Reviews
Well I've been wanting to print this chapter so since there's like 23 reviews well I wanted to thank you all for your opinions and compliments. I highly appreciate them you know.
This message below applies to the reviewer - - ;
As for the damn flamer. You prick! I'll have you know my writing is better than some other writers out there! No one's perfect and I try my best to re- read my story to get the mistakes and grammar but get this in your head, my main language is French, although I prefer English. I already know I have a few problems with grammar and all but I'd like to see you write stories like mine! And if you don't like it then simply don't read it you moron!
Could you people believe that when someone gets a comment like his it makes me simply not want to write anymore, just abandon everything because it does make you feel down, and I work so hard to publish chapters weekly since I have so many stories to manage!
I'm going to cry because of that prick........ I couldn't write anything for a week because of what he told me .........
With that aside, I'm still thankful to all those that gave me an opinion and help me continue writing my stories.
Many thanks to
Rubymoon17
Arbil
Ookami Kage
SilverKnight7
GWFascination
They review all my stories so far. So a big thanks!
Next Chapter : Living Arrangement
Even though the boys don't like the decision Hokage made, now they must decide at who's place they'll move, Naruto's Apartment or Sasuke's House.
Thanks Again
And sorry for the long wait!
Read and REVIEW!
Ookima
Chapter 2 : Bad News
Synopsis : Orochimaru wants Sasuke. Itachi wants Naruto. For both their safety, Tsunade makes a hard decision. They'll have to live together under the same roof. With time, perhaps they'll get to know each other better......... Unless they kill each other first.........
Pairings : Sasuke x Naruto (Soon to come I promise)
Other Pairings : Undetermined for now
WARNINGS : Will contain SHONEN-AI, in other words, boy loves boy. If you don't like then don't read.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION :
- Would be good for you reviewers to have read up to Manga Volume 20, since I start the story from there.
- Tsunade is now the 5th Hokage and already is in the village
- Takes place after Naruto, Sasuke and Jiraiya encountered Uchiha Itachi for the first time in Konoha Village. And when Naruto and Jiraiya brought back Shizume and Tsunade to become the 5th Hokage.
- And Naruto might be a bit OCC at sometimes, since he's kinda depressed so you've been warned
JAPANESE WORDS
- Baka = idiot -
- Arigatou = Thank You -
- naruhodo = I see -
- Iie = No -
- Chikushou – Damn it / Damn
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---Recap---
Kurenai giggled a little as Asuma smiled. Gai was mostly satisfied at how Tsunade had commented on Kakashi's bad habit of reading such perverted books. All four vanished from the room, now leaving only Tsunade, Jiraiya and Shizune there.
"We have to talk" Jiraiya said seriously
Tsunade lifted an eyebrow as she wondered what he meant. She crossed her arms, as she sat on the edge of the desk.
"I thought we were finished?" Tsunade pointed out as she stared at Jiraiya
"With them yes, but I wanted to talk to you about Naruto" Jiraiya warned her
"Naruto? Did he do something again?" Tsunade asked
"Not really. I'm worried about him though" Jiraiya told her with a serious tone
"Why?" Tsunade asked
"I thought that if I brought him to get you back here, he'd get better, but it seems that I was wrong" Jiraiya started to explain
"How bad is it?" Tsunade asked again
"It's hard to tell. Ever since his encounter with Itachi, he's been questioning himself as well as hiding his real emotions to everyone" Jiraiya replied
"He's putting on a false smile and a happy attitude to hide his deeper feelings isn't he?" Tsunade wanted to confirm
"Most likely. His mask is breaking, so it isn't wise to leave him alone, or it could get worse than it already is" Jiraiya stated as he took a look outside
"Get worse?" Tsunade asked with concern
"Hai, after we left him in that Uchiha's room, Naruto didn't even stay, he went out on the training grounds. I found him laying there all bruised up and unconscious and it seems he used his Rasengan so many times that his right hand is burned pretty badly. He's back home now, all bandaged up but the why he did it, I don't know" Jiraiya answered
"I never imagined Naruto would do something so careless........." Tsunade let out
"Can you blame him? After all, most people ignore him and hate him because of what's inside of him. I'm still impressed how he managed to make it this far and still smile to everyone despite his hard life." Jiraiya commented
"I know Jiraiya. But Naruto's problems just got worse. With the organization that Itachi's part of being after the poor boy complicates things. And that now Orochimaru still wants that Uchiha Sasuke adds more to it." Tsunade mentioned
"That's just great! Itachi wants Naruto, more like Kyubi, and our insane former teammate wants that Uchiha boy for unknown reasons. So how are you planning to deal with this one?" Jiraiya asked
"Me? Like I know what I should do!" Tusnade yelled out
"Well, Tsunade-sama you are the fifth Hokage now........." Shizune reminded her friend
"Why did I take this job?" Tsunade asked herself as she looked up at the ceiling
"Because of the brat" Jiraiya laughed a little
"Normally I'd have an Anbu team follow their every movement. But because of what that asshole of a snake did, well I can't spare any Anbu right now." Tsunade commented as she slapped her forehead to get some ideas
"Well, leaving the boys to live alone isn't really safe." Jiraiya commented
"I know that! But it's not like I can just put them under the same roof" Tsunade let out as she closed her eyes
"Wouldn't be a bad idea. After all, you're Hokage now, you can do what you want" Jiraiya reminded her
"But it would be suicidal to get those two boys to live under the same roof, from what I've read in the reports by Kakashi and Iruka, those two are like cat and dog, rivals, they can't stand each other. They'll kill each other before Orochimaru or Itachi do anything" Tsunade stated as she glared at the sennin
"I heard and know about their rivalry and how they try to be better than the other one. But if you don't do something soon, Naruto will have a mental breakdown if not worse and for Sasuke, seeing his older brother back in the picture who was more interested in your long time rival and not you can piss anyone off to do something stupid." Jiraiya told the way he thought to her
"Jiraiya-sama has a good point" Shizune commented
"If I do this Jiraiya, I want you to check up on the boys to make sure they don't do anything stupid. And help me out to manage this whole thing as well." Tsunade requested from the sennin
Jiraiya nodded as he agreed to the terms Tsunade spoke of.
"Before you go back to Naruto's apartment, I'd appreciate it if you went to check up on the Uchiha kid while you're out. As for tomorrow, you'll show up here, as Kakashi brings his team into the office." Tsunade ordered him
"So I guess that means ........." Jiraiya started with a small smile as Tsunade cut in
"Hai, Uzumaki Naruto and Uchiha Sasuke will start to live under the same roof for their own safety and the Village." Tsunade finished as she looked into Jiraiya's eyes
--- Chapter 2 : Bad News ---
A long silence came in the room, as Tsunade knew very well that for the time being, it was the best solution for both boys.
"I'll give you some time to prepare for tomorrow" Jiraiya let out with a smile
"Just don't forget to check up on them" Tsunade reminded the sennin
"Hai hai" Jiraiya smiled as he left her new office
Shizune looked over at her friend to see how exhausted she actually was. Tsunade rubbed her hand against her forehead, before she walked towards the window to have a look outside.
"I pray things won't get worse........." Tsunade let out with a low tone as she looked upon the Village
Her friend walked over as she placed a hand on Tsunade's shoulder, in hopes to comfort her friend of the tasks that await her tomorrow.
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*Uchiha's Residence*
Jiraiya approached the residence carefully, since he didn't want the boy to detect him and ask a multitude of questions, especially about the blond brat. Since the first time they met, it didn't go so well because of Naruto's state of mind and body.
Jiraiya crawled his way into a tree, and advanced on the branch when he found a good enough place where he could peak through the windows and into the Uchiha house.
---Inside the House---
Sasuke sat down on his bed, as he slowly removed his shirt because of his injury that Itachi gave him. Once the shirt removed, he had bandages wrapped around his waist.
He discarded his shirt to the floor, as he looked to his right on his nightstand. On his nightstand, there was a picture of Team seven, where Sakura had her tongue out, Naruto made a peace and love sign. Sasuke had his emotionless face, as Kakashi stood behind the trio with a hand that rested on each boy's shoulder and smiled.
Sasuke leaned forward, while he tried to be in more pain that he already was and grabbed the picture frame. He brought it closer to his face as he seemed to be examining it.
"I just don't get it......... Why would that bastard want Naruto for? That dobe use to be a dobe......... But since the Chuunin exams, he's getting stronger than me......... How am I suppose to avenge my clan if that baka's stronger than me........." Sasuke continued to ask himself many questions
For several minutes, Sasuke stared at the picture, as was angry but also envied Naruto in many ways. He then placed the picture frame back on the nightstand, as Sasuke laid on his bed, while his eyes stared up at the ceiling.
"Am I really worthless.........?" Sasuke asked himself before going to sleep
---Outside the House---
Jiraiya had overheard part of the conversation, but waited until the boy fell asleep to leave. At least he knew he wouldn't go anywhere for the night.
Jiraiya jumped down to the ground, as he started to walk towards his next destination, Naruto's apartment.
"On the outside, that boy shows no feeling. But inside, he's still human." Jiraiya let out his thought
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*Naruto's Apartment*
As Iruka entered the Apartment of his former student, his eyes widened in surprise of how it was clean. No dirty dishes on the kitchen counter and table no dirty clothes on the floor. Hell there wasn't even dust in the house and it didn't have that little strange smell like each time Iruka came over.
"This.........This can't be where Naruto lives........." Iruka let out in shock
Iruka walked around , while he looked into every room and found them all cleaned up. He then made his way towards Naruto's bedroom.
---Naruto's Bedroom---
Iruka slowly opened the door as he took a quick look inside the room. As He entered the room, he left the door a crack open, while he made his way towards the blonde's bed.
Near the nightstand, there was wooden chair. Iruka took hold and slide it as close as possible to Naruto's bed. Iruka simply tossed aside the jumpsuit Naruto always wore on the floor as his eyes never left the blond.
"He even cleaned his room........." Iruka whispered to himself as his eyes scanned the room
The room was mostly dark, as the curtains on the windows were all closed and prevented the sunlight from entering.
"Stop........." Naruto repeated weakly still in deep sleep
This caught Iruka's attention immediately as he wanted to reassure the boy while he tried to understand what his former student meant. He reached out to take his right hand into his own when he noticed the bandages on Naruto wrist and hand.
"What the .........?" Iruka stared at the wounded hand, unsure what to do
Iruka lifted the covers a little to notice Naruto had bruises almost everywhere when he heard the door slightly open behind him.
"You shouldn't disturb the boy right now." Jiraiya stared at the Chuunin
"What the hell happened to him!?" Iruka raised his voice
"Shhh. Let him rest. If you want to talk, come in the kitchen." Jiraiya ordered him
Iruka wanted to protest but deep down knew that he should have this discussion elsewhere so that Naruto could get the rest he needed.
Iruka covered the blond as he was before as he walked out of Naruto's room, and made sure not to make any sounds, as he closed the door behind himself and Jiraiya.
---Kitchen---
Jiraiya leaned against the wall, as he kept an eye out on Iruka, since the Chuunin was very protective over the boy.
"He wasn't wounded this morning! How the hell did he get wounded!?" Iruka lashed out at the sennin
"Calm down Iruka" Jiraiya requested as he waved his hands defensively
Despite how he felt on the moment, Iruka forced himself to calm down, as he pulled out a chair and sat down. He pressed his hand against his forehead as he exhaled deeply enough to be heard by the sennin.
"He was training alone. I found him unconscious on the ground. He seemed to have used Rasengan too many times to the point he burned his hand." Jiraiya started to explain calmly
"Rasengan? Isn't that one of your attacks?" Iruka asked
Jiraiya only nodded as Iruka felt the urge to kick the sennin for teaching such a technique to Naruto.
"Why teach him something that dangerous!?" Iruka demanded an answer
"The boy has great potential. And if I hadn't taught him that in the first place, the little bastard wouldn't be here right now." Jiraiya informed Iruka with a serious look
"Jiraiya-sama, he's your student, are you going to do like Kakashi? Abandon the poor boy when he needs you?" Iruka asked the sennin with a dead serious tone
"Don't insult me. I have no intention of abandoning the boy, especially in the state he is right now" Jiraiya shot back with an angry tone
"How bad?" Iruka asked with a worried look
"I don't know yet........." Jiraiya answered as Iruka lowered his head
---Naruto's bedroom---
Naruto was currently having around the same nightmare as the nice before, as his hands started to shake a little. The boy seemed to be struggling in his dreams as in his mind, he heard evil voices.
"You have only yourself to blame little kitsune" Itachi told him
"It isn't my fault.........IT ISN'T MY FAULT!" Naruto yelled out
Naruto's eyes shot open as the boy sat up straight in his bed, panting hard from the nightmare he had yet again.
"Why? Why did I have to be cursed?" Naruto asked himself over and over again
---Kitchen---
As Iruka was about to ask another question, they heard a yell coming from Naruto's bedroom. Both ninjas exchanged worried looks, as Iruka was the first to rush into his former student's room.
---Naruto's Bedroom---
Iruka nearly kicked the door open, when he saw Naruto who was awake in his bed, shaking like a leaf. Naruto was too focused on his nightmare to even notice the presence of Jiraiya and Iruka, until he heard his name being called and a hand touching his shoulder.
"Naruto?" Iruka softly said as he looked at the boy with worried eyes
"Iruka-sensei?" Naruto let out as he looked being his former sensei
Jiraiya stood in the doorframe but still worried about Naruto's recent behavior, as he crossed his arms and observed.
"How did I get here?" Naruto asked as he looked into Iruka's eyes
"Jiraiya-sama found you unconscious and brought you here a few hours ago." Iruka answered as he sat on the chair next to his bed
"Oh......... Then why are you here?" Naruto asked
"I came to check up on my student! When you refused ramen you worried me a lot!" Iruka raised his voice against the boy
Naruto backed away a little as he waved his hands defensively, when he stopped and looked at his right hand.
"That's what happens when you use Rasengan too many times brat" Jiraiya commented
Naruto stared at his hand a few seconds, before he used it to scratch the back of his head and give his normal grin.
"He's hiding something........." Jiraiya thought as he noticed Naruto had put his fake smile on
"You should rest Naruto" Iruka
Naruto only nodded, as Iruka lifted up the covers so that Naruto could lay down more easily. Naruto rested his head on the pillow, as Iruka covered the boys with the blankets.
"I'll treat you to some ramen tomorrow" Iruka whispered to the boy with a smile across his lips
Naruto simply nodded as he had a light smile across his lips. Now reassured, Iruka stood up, walked by Jiraiya that still stood in the doorframe and left the blonde's room. Jiraiya closed the light as he took one last look at his student.
"You can't fool me Naruto......... Hopefully things will get better when you're no longer alone........." Jiraiya thought before he left as well and closed the door behind him
In the darkness of the room, Naruto's eyes remained open, as those eyes looked both sad and hurt. The blond curled up under the covers, while he brought his knees to his chest and wrapped his arms around them.
"How long can I last like this?" Naruto asked himself as he knew very well he wouldn't get any more sleep tonight.
--- Kitchen ---
Both ninjas walked back into the kitchen, as Jiraiya showed the front door to Iruka.
"You have classes tomorrow morning Iruka. It's best you get some rest. I'll watch over him tonight." Jiraiya reassured the Chuunin
"Demo........." Iruka started but Jiraiya interrupted him before he could finish
"If anything changes I'll be sure to warn you." Jiraiya let out
Iruka smiled slightly, as he left Naruto's house but still was worried about his former student.
Jiraiya sat down at the kitchen table, as he got out a bottle of sake and started to pour some in a dish. He took small sips into it as his attention remained on the closed door to Naruto's bedroom.
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*The Next Morning*
--- Naruto's Bedroom ---
Naruto rubbed his eyes so that his vision wouldn't be blurry like it currently was. He finally opened his eyes, as he was about to get out of be. Since he was still wrapped inside the covers, his foot couldn't come loose as he fell off his bed with a loud 'thump' sound was heard. Naruto groaned as he managed to get the covers off him and stand up.
"That hurt........." Naruto said as he rubbed his head
He then looked at his hand, but still felt the slight pain in it. His eyes showed he was a bit confused since he had tried to sleep during the night despite the continuous nightmare he had.
"Why didn't Kyubi's chakra heal me yet?" Naruto asked himself as he stared at his wounded hand
--- Kitchen ---
Naruto stepped out of his room, as he found the pervert asleep in a chair, with his scrap book in one hand and a pen in the other. Naruto had an evil smile on his lips as he grabbed a metal pot from the kitchen counter and lifted it high in the air next to the sennin.
"This is going to be funny" Naruto thought as he let go of his pot
the metal pot reached the floor and made a loud sound, as Jiraiya jumped out of his chair and landed face first on the cold floor of the kitchen.
"What the hell!?" Jiraiya yelled out as he quickly stood up
"That's for all the times you woke me up with cold water" Naruto told the sennin as he stuck out his tongue and smiled
Jiraiya smiled a little but then gave a little slap behind the boy's head. By instinct, Naruto grabbed his head as though it hurt as he closed his eyes for a moment, and waited for things to calm down.
"So, care to explain why you're in my apartment ero-sennin?" Naruto asked calmly as he made his way towards his refrigerator
Naruto took out a some milk as he was about to pour himself a glass of it, when the sennin looked at him with a serious look and crossed hi arms.
"Why did you over used the Rasengan Naruto?" Jiraiya asked with a serious tone
The moment his sensei asked him that question, Naruto stopped what he was doing as he placed the milk carton on the kitchen counter and looked down. He had no desire to answer as he looked at his wounded hand and remembered again that nightmare.
"None of your business" Naruto replied
"Drink your glass of milk and get dressed" Jiraiya ordered his student
"Huh?" Naruto gave a confused look
"We're going to see Tsunade this morning. So hurry up already" Jiraiya demanded
Naruto was still confused to why his teacher would simply drop the subject, sicne he usually beat the answer out of him. Naruto drank his milk quickly as he returned to his bedroom, not once looking into the sennin's eyes.
"What is wrong Naruto?" Jiraiya asked himself as his eyes changed for a few seconds from serious to worry and concern for his student
--- Bedroom ---
Naruto opened his drawer as he pulled out a pair of black jeans and the basic ninja like shirt, along with a second t-shirt that was a dark red, with the symbol of the leaf imprinted on the back.
Naruto dressed himself as he looked himself in the mirror with the new look. He found that this suited him better than his orange jumpsuit for now, but the way his headband was across his forehead and the style of his hair din't match the rest of himself.
He then also noticed he needed to change those bandages around his hand since they looked dirty and a bit bloody. He walked towards his bathroom to get new bandages as he unwrapped the old ones around his hand.
Once the bandages were off, Naruto looked down on his hand to see how much damage it actually was. His hand had many cuts here and there that had seemed to slowly heal, while in the palm of his hand, his skin remained blood red since it was burned due to his over use of Rasengan.
"Strange, even though it looks bad, I don't feel much pain" Naruto told himself while he threw the used bandages into the trashcan
Naruto washed his hands carefully not to open any of the cuts and then wrapped the brand new bandages , but started from the elbow to each of his fingers. Although his hand was the most wounded, Naruto still had a few cuts up to his elbow and decided it would be wiser to simply cover the whole thing.
Now his entire fingers, hand, wrist and up to his elbow were covered in new white bandages. He closed and open his fist many times to verify that he could still move freely if needed.
"Good, if I need to train today I'll be able to still depend on my hand" Naruto thought as he then looked into the mirror
He didn't like the way his hair and headband were placed, and decided to change that look he always had. He untied his headband and tied it back around his left shoulder like Shikamaru. As for his hair, he simply didn't want to have spiky hair for now, and simply placed his hands under the water and soaked his hair. His hair now fell on each side of his hair as a few strands were near his eyes.
Naruto looked again in the mirror, now satisfied with this look and walked out of the room to join Jiraiya and get ready to leave.
--- Kitchen ---
"Why is he taking so long?" Jiraiya asked himself when he heard the door open
When Naruto stepped out, Jiraiya was very surprised of how his student was actually dressed. This wasn't the usual Naruto he new, where was his jumpsuit? But something caught his eyes quickly, his right hand and elbow were bandaged.
"What's with the new look kid?" Jiraiya asked
"Got nothing else" Naruto answered
"Your hand hasn't healed?" Jiraiya asked as he stared at Naruto's wounded hand
"Yeah, Kyubi's been a pain in the ass lately. If you're done with the question, then let's go" Naruto replied with a cold stone
Naruto walked out of his house as he waited for his sensei to leave his apartment as well. Jiraiya was surprised of how Naruto had answered him. This time he knew things for the boy would be getting worse if Naruto continued this way.
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*Sasuke's House*
Sasuke had been awake early in the morning, thinking about what Jiraiya told him, and the need to see Naruto for an unknown reason. He shook the feeling off as he ate his breakfast and prepared to go to the training grounds. After all, Team 7 was meeting at their usual place since Kakashi and Sasuke were back and Naruto had returned form an unknown mission.
"Naruto better be there" Sasuke thought
Sasuke grabbed his black shorts and black shirt to get himself dressed up, as he then attached his holsters on his leg. He then headed out to the training grounds with one thought in mind, seeing Naruto.
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*Training Grounds*
On the bridge, Sakura leaned against the ramp, arms crossed, as she waited for her all time crush to appear, as well as Naruto and Kakashi. Sasuke finally arrived as he seemed lost within his own thoughts since he didn't notice a pink haired girl yelling out his name.
"Ohayo Sasuke-kun!" Sakura waved her hand to him
"Hn" Sasuke let out as he stuffed his hands in his pockets and leaned against a tree
While Sasuke stayed silent, Inner Sakura couldn't help but think of the many ways she could be with Sasuke and then the thought of Naruto coming in the way all the time surfaced, as well as their teacher always being late.
--- 15 minutes later ---
"Strange......... Dobe should have been here by now........." Sasuke thought until he heard of a high pitch voice from the pink haired girl
"Where the hell is Naruto and Kakashi-sensei!?" Sakura yelled out as she waved her fists around in anger
The sound poof is heard as Kakashi appears in his usual stance and waved to his two students.
"Ohayo" Kakashi said with a hidden smile
Sakura's jaw almost dropped on the ground as Sasuke remained unchanged.
"You're only 15 minutes late and not 3 hours........." Sakura let out in shock
"Well Sakura, nothing happened today for me to arrive late" Kakashi explained
Sakura looked at her sensei dumbfounded while Sasuke walked closer to them.
"No mission today, but Hokage-sama wants to see us, so we're heading there right now" Kakashi informed his student
"Kakashi-sensei, shouldn't we wait for Naruto?" Sakura asked a bit puzzled
"Iie, Jiraiya-sama must be bringing him in as well" Kakashi explained
"Demo......... Naruto's part of ........." Sakura was about to ask when Kakashi stood behind her and placed a hand on her shoulder
"Drop it Sakura" Kakashi demanded as he walked away and headed towards the Hokage's office
Sakura was still confused but knew that her sensei was serious about the topic. Sasuke frowned a little as he stuffed his hands back into his pockets and soon followed their sensei.
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*Hokage's Chamber*
Tsunade sat alone in her office, as she seemed discouraged by all the paperwork she still had to do before she could get any rest. She leaned back a little as she rubbed her forehead and closed her eyes.
"Today is going to be a hard day" Tsunade thought as she took a look outside
Knock Knock
"Enter" Tsunade said as she sat back in normal position
Her friend Shizume came inside the office with another load of papers for Tsunade to sign. She placed them on the corner of the desk, while she glared at her friend.
"When is this going to end?" Tsunade asked herself as Shizume showed her a paper that she needed to sign
"It seems that Jiraiya-sama and Naruto-kun have arrived. Should I send them in?" Shizume asked as she took back the papers Tsunade had finished signing
"Show them in then. And when Kakashi arrives with Haruno Sakura and Uchiha Sasuke, tell them I'll be right with them after I'm finished with the brat" Tsunade requested from her friend
Shizume nodded as she exited the office, leaving Tsunade lost in her own thoughts and concern over the situation Konoha was currently facing.
--- In the Hall ---
Naruto leaned against the wall, arms crossed, as Jiraiya stood near him, but kept a close eye on the boy himself, still concerned over his resent behavior.
"The old hag better not make us wait too long" Naruto growled
"Try not to call her that too often, she might scold you harder next time" Jiraiya asked from the boy
At that moment, Shizume walked towards them and motioned them it was ok for them to go inside.
"Tsunade-sama will receive you now" Shizume informed them as she pointed to her office
Naruto walked pass Shizume without a word, as the female couldn't take her eyes of the blond as she prepared to hold him back.
"Don't" Jiraiya told her
Shizume turned around to face Jiraiya and saw the serious look in his face.
"What happened to Naruto-kun?" Shizume asked with worry
"He's been like this since Itachi returned to Konoha. Only difference is with each passing day, he seems to get worse." Jiraiya explained
"Then I do hope he gets better soon" Shizume let out
"That's Naruto isn't it? He'll be fine" Jiraiya reassured her with a smile
Shizume smiled back as she continued to walk in the hall, preparing to do her other chores, while Jiraiya took back his serious look as he watched the back of his only student enter the office.
"Hopefully, Tsunade will make you talk" Jiraiya thought as he prepared to go inside the office as well when a high pitched voice caught his attention
At the entrance of the building, Kakashi's team had finally made it, as Kakashi looked around to notice Jiraiya standing near Hokage's office door. Both adults exchanged eye piercing looks.
"Sasuke-kun! How about we........." Sakura started but Sasuke immediately cut her off
"No" Sasuke coldly said
Sakura lowered her head as once again she had been turned down, but most of all she didn't even have time to finish her sentence and already Sasuke had answered.
"After all I did, he still doesn't like me........." Inner Sakura thought
"Naruto must already be in Tsunade-sama's office." Kakashi thought as he saw the sennin retreating into the office
"How long do we have to wait?" Sakura asked
"Tsunade-sama should come get us when she's ready to receive us" Kakashi answered with a hidden smile because of his masked face
"Kakashi, wasn't that Naruto's .........?" Sasuke started to ask but Kakashi interrupted him
"Hai, Naruto must be in her office." Kakashi replied
Sasuke remained silent as he recalled how he first talked to the sennin about Naruto.
--- FLASHBACK ---
"Uchiha Sasuke right?" Jiraiya asked
"Hai, and mind telling me why you're in dobe's house?" Sasuke asked with a serious tone
"Dobe? Well your so called dobe, is in there finally getting some rest, so leave the brat alone" Jiraiya replied with a defensive tone
"He never sleeps in the afternoon he'd be out training right now" Sasuke stated a bit surprised by the response the man had given him
"Take it from me boy, you don't know your teammate as well as you think you do. As for some information, while you were having your beauty sleep, Naruto was almost killed, so you'll understand if I insist you stay away from this apartment. You can see him tomorrow" Jiraiya warned the boy before him
Sasuke didn't like the way this man treated him but he decided not to press in the manner, for now. So Sasuke simply turned his back to the sennin, put his hands in his pockets and walked away.
--- END OF FLASHBACK ---
"What the hell happened after that bastard came?" Sasuke asked himself when he felt a hand on his shoulder
Sasuke looked up to notice Kakashi standing behind him and smiled at him.
"We'll wait over there until Naruto and Jiraiya get out" Kakashi informed his student
Sasuke simply nodded as he tried to shake the feeling he was getting, while both student followed their sensei to the waiting area.
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*Tsunade's Office*
The first thing that caught Tsunade's eyes were the way Naruto was dressed, and seemed to be in a serious mood instead of being utterly annoying. Tsunade stood up as she walked towards Naruto while she gave a glare at Jiraiya to let him know she noticed something wasn't normal.
"Hey old hag" Naruto said without hesitation
"Baka, I told you not to call her that!" Jiraiya gave a small punch behind the boy's head
"But that's how you always call her ero-sennin" Naruto let out as he rubbed the back of his head
Tsunade shot a death glare at Jiraiya as he couldn't help but waved his hands around defensively on the remark Naruto had just given.
"We'll talk about this later. For now, we have a more important matter to talk about now ........." She was about to continue when she noticed Naruto's hand all bandaged up. "What happened? You didn't have this yesterday" Tsunade asked as she reached for the hand but Naruto moved back quickly to evade her hand
"It's nothing, so leave it alone" Naruto mumbled as he placed his unharmed hand and touched the damaged one
Tsunade was a bit surprised by the way Naruto reacted to her wanting to help the poor boy. She then looked back at Jiraiya as they exchanged worried looks.
"Naruto, how would you feel if I were to tell that you'll share a house with someone?" Tsunade asked smoothly trying not to make the boy panic more than he already was
"I'd rather stay alone in that case" Naruto coldly replied and shock both adults for the second time in the last few minutes. "Home is the only place where I don't have those cold eyes looking at me........" Naruto mentally told himself as his eyes betrayed how he truly felt and showed sadness
"His eyes always showed his true feelings no matter how hard he tried to hide them........" Tsunade thought as she observed the blond
"Look Naruto, Itachi might come back any time to get you, we can't afford to lose you......." Jiraiya started to explain when Naruto turned around to face his teacher with a certain hate in his eyes
"Why don't you all simply say that it's so Itachi doesn't get his hands on Kyubi and use it against this village huh!?" Naruto yelled out in anger
"Naruto, calm down" Tsunade urged the boy as she placed her hand on his shoulder
"Whatever" Naruto mumbled as he slapped the hand off his shoulder and ran out of the office
Unfortunately, Jiraiya didn't have the time to grab the little fox before he stormed out of the office, as Tsunade and himself chased him.
--- In The Hall ---
Kakashi leaned against the wall as he was reading his Come Come Paradise, while Sakura made little circles with the tip of her toe on the ground, while Sasuke simply stared at the office door.
The door opened wide and slammed against the wall, as a tuff of blond hair could be seen quickly walking out to exit the building.
"Naruto?" Sasuke thought as he walked towards the figure
Kakashi noticed that the boy that was leaving was actually Naruto, as he found a running Jiraiya and Tsunade chasing the boy in the hall. Kakashi closed his book and discarded it, while Sakura stayed in place not knowing what she should actually do.
"Chikushou, I don't need any more hateful eyes on me day and night" Naruto thought when a hand grabbed his shoulder and forced him to turn around
"Stay put brat" Jiraiya hissed as Tsunade appeared behind the blond boy
"Let me go!!!" Naruto demanded as he waved his fists around
Jiraiya held the boy down firmly as Tsunade, Kakashi, Sakura and Sasuke joined them. Naruto continued to struggle until he saw Sasuke on his right side. Naruto immediately stopped struggling, eyes wide open as he looked away to not meet the eyes of the Uchiha boy.
"Seems that seeing Uchiha Sasuke calmed him down" Tsunade and Jiraiya thought the same thing as they noticed Naruto's change of behavior
"Jiraiya, bring him back in my office" Tsunade ordered her former comrade
Jiraiya nodded, as he picked up the boy and carried him back into the office. Through all this, Sasuke's eyes never left the blond, as he found himself staring at Naruto's wounded hand and clothing.
"What's wrong with him?" Sasuke asked
"This does not concern you for now Sasuke. Now, if you would please come in my office as well." Tsunade requested as she pointed to her door
Sasuke gave a stare as Kakashi pushed lightly the boy forward so he would enter the room as well. Kakashi made a sign to Sakura to follow them as well.
"Hopefully what I'm about to tell those two will help them both out, mostly Naruto........." Tsunade thought before she walked back into her office and closed the door behind her
--- Inside the Office ---
Jiraiya stood behind his student on the left side of the office, while Kakashi stood behind his two students, Sasuke and Sakura on the right side of the office. Both senseis stood behind their students with hands resting on their shoulders.
Tunade walked in as she stopped and turned around to face both small parties in the middle of the office, as she couldn't help but take a look over at Naruto from time to time.
Although Sasuke didn't show it, he sneakily looked over at Naruto and had a more close look about his wounded hand, but then noticed how Naruto couldn't look at his rival in the eyes.
"What the hell happened after I was defeated?" Sasuke asked himself when the voice of Tsunade caught his attention
"As you both know, Konoha has been on alert ever since the invasion of Orochimaru and the sand-ninjas as well as the appearance of Uchiha Itachi. We lost many of our ninjas as the others are still recovering." Tsunade started to explain, hands placed on her hips
"Your point?" Sasuke coldly asked
"Orochimaru wants you Sasuke, for reasons we don't know. Uchiha Itachi wants Naruto, for reasons unknown as well. I have no Anbu to spare to guard you, and I have no intention of making you move in with your teacher, Hatake Kakashi." Tsunade continued
Each time Tsunade spoke the name of his older brother, a sudden rage filled Sasuke, as his Sharingan appeared without him actually summoning it. Kakashi felt the boy tense up at the name being mention as he gently caressed the boy's shoulder to calm him down.
On Naruto's side, the blond couldn't focus much on what the female sennin spoke of, as the only thing that ran through his mind was to get out of there and go train until he couldn't think of anything anymore.
"What I'm trying to say boys, is that you're both living alone in your apartment and house, which makes it even more dangerous for you to be compromised. And so I came to the only solution possible for the moment." Tsunade continued as she took a deep breath and crossed her arms
"Is that why you asked me earlier about me not living alone anymore?" Naruto mumbled
"Hai, the solution most fitting for both of you, is to live together, under the same roof, as roommates, for your own safety." Tsunade finished as she awaited the outburst from the blond boy
TBC
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Another chapter written although it could have been better in my opinion. Think I'm slowly getting Naruto into depression or something, but no worry Sasuke will bring him back normal I hope........
Reviews
Well I've been wanting to print this chapter so since there's like 23 reviews well I wanted to thank you all for your opinions and compliments. I highly appreciate them you know.
This message below applies to the reviewer - - ;
As for the damn flamer. You prick! I'll have you know my writing is better than some other writers out there! No one's perfect and I try my best to re- read my story to get the mistakes and grammar but get this in your head, my main language is French, although I prefer English. I already know I have a few problems with grammar and all but I'd like to see you write stories like mine! And if you don't like it then simply don't read it you moron!
Could you people believe that when someone gets a comment like his it makes me simply not want to write anymore, just abandon everything because it does make you feel down, and I work so hard to publish chapters weekly since I have so many stories to manage!
I'm going to cry because of that prick........ I couldn't write anything for a week because of what he told me .........
With that aside, I'm still thankful to all those that gave me an opinion and help me continue writing my stories.
Many thanks to
Rubymoon17
Arbil
Ookami Kage
SilverKnight7
GWFascination
They review all my stories so far. So a big thanks!
Next Chapter : Living Arrangement
Even though the boys don't like the decision Hokage made, now they must decide at who's place they'll move, Naruto's Apartment or Sasuke's House.
Thanks Again
And sorry for the long wait!
Read and REVIEW!
Ookima
