Rivals or Lovers?
Chapter 5 : Past and Present
Synopsis : Naruto's condition seems to go from bad to worse, as this one decides to go train and get an answer to why the Kyubi has yet healed his wounded hand. Sasuke remembers his serious talk with the sennin as he sets out to find Naruto, to only realise that this one is in danger!
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Pairings : Sasuke x Naruto
Other Pairings : Undetermined for now
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WARNINGS : Will contain SHONEN-AI, in other words, boy loves boy. If you don't like then don't read.
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SMALL NOTE : In this chapter you'll find out why Kyubi has yet healed Naruto's hand, as well as the serious discussion that took place between Jiraiya and Sasuke.
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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.
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JUTSU LIST
- Kuchiyose no Jutsu - Summoning Skill - Description: Using a contract, seal, and the users blood, allows the user to summon an animal. The type of the animal is determined by the contract used, and the blood is the 'signature'(Which can be on a scroll, tattoo, etc).
- Kage Bunshin no Jutsu - Shadow Clone Skill : A forbidden jutsu, that creates clones - which are not just plain illusions (like the normal bunshin no jutsu). Each clone is an exact replica of the user, capable of attacking. A direct hit causes the clone to disappear.
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JAPANESE WORDS
- Baka = Idiot -
- Arigatou = Thank You -
- Iie = No -
- Chikushou = Damn it / Damn -
- Urusai = Shut Up -
- Aniki = Brother -
- Kitsune = Fox -
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--- RECAP ---
*Nightfall*
The rest of the afternoon, Sasuke had tormented himself with the many questions he still needed to ask, but he knew that he shouldn't just force the answers out of Naruto, although that would be his usual style.
When the night started to set in, Sasuke decided perhaps he should make something to eat. After all, Naruto still needed to regain both his strength as well as his chakra.
So, Sasuke decided he'll try to get Naruto to eat something, but to make no mistakes, he would ask the blond himself what he would like, but deep down already knew that it would be ramen.
"He should make his own damn food ..." Sasuke debated within himself as he prepared to knock when he heard mumbles from within his rival's room.
Sasuke thought for a moment before he decided to simply walk inside the room. He then noticed Naruto was still in his bed, although all he saw was the blonde's back.
"Oy dobe, what do you want to eat?" Sasuke asked as he crossed his arms and waited for an answer.
After another minute, Sasuke's blood started to boil since the blond paid no attention to him. The dark haired boy decided to walk around the bed so he could come face to face with Naruto. When he finally met the other side, he shook slightly the boy's shoulder until this one's face came visible to Sasuke's eyes.
"What the ...?" Sasuke let out as he removed his hand from the blonde's shoulder.
Sasuke took a step back, as his eyes were focused with Naruto's face. Naruto was sleeping, but what caught the Uchiha off guard was that tears streamed down his face and didn't seem to stop.
"Why? Why am I so weak?" Naruto mumbled in his sleep as tears continued to fall from his eyes.
Sasuke simply observed the boy, not really knowing what he should actually do. He simply kneeled next the bed as his hands moved on their own to gently wipe those warm tears off his red cheeks.
"It's my fault ..." Naruto mumbled again but it seemed to be different this time.
Sasuke carefully observed the blond with a bit of worry, as she gently stroke his blond hair out of the boy's face.
"It's my fault ..." Naruto repeated again.
"What is he talking about?" Sasuke asked himself, as he stopped every movement and stared at him.
"It's my fault ... That Sasuke was hurt ..." Naruto finally finished his sentence, while Sasuke's eyes widened.
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"His fault...? The only times I got hurt was on our first C ranked mission, during the Chuunin exam, then when my curse took over while I fought Gaara ..." Sasuke thought of the moments he was injured when the last scene crossed his mind. "Itachi ..." Sasuke mumbled as he recalled the first day he woke up after he had found his older brother.
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*FLASHBACK*
---- Konoha's Hospital ----
---Inside Sasuke's Bedroom---
Sasuke sat on his bed but still felt the pain near his stomach, although he was in a coma for two weeks, his ribs still hadn't healed as fast.
"Why did Itachi want Naruto? He's weaker than me." Sasuke thought when Sakura returned with a glass of water.
"Sasuke-kun you weren't suppose to sit up." Sakura reminded the boy.
"Sakura, I can't drink if I'm lying down." Sasuke informed the pink haired girl.
Sakura cursed herself for being somewhat dumb at the moment as she gave the glass of water to Sasuke and sat down in the chair again.
"Naruto was here earlier?" Sasuke asked indirectly.
"Oh that reminds me. That idiot came here like 15 minutes ago, wanted me to give you a message but I still don't get if he was serious about it. He was acting more weird than usual." Sakura commented.
Sasuke placed the glass on the little table next to his bed and then looked at Sakura.
"What was his message?" Sasuke asked.
"I'm sorry." Sakura replied.
"Why are you sorry?" Sasuke asked a bit confused.
"Not me! That's what Naruto said!" Sakura corrected the boy.
"........." Sasuke stayed silent as he was surprised that Naruto would actually say that.
"Anyway, I saw your doctor and he told me that you just have to sign a few papers and take it slow for the next 2 weeks and then you can go back on missions with us." Sakura informed the boy with a smile.
"Us?" Sasuke asked.
"Of course, you know, Naruto, Kakashi-sensei, me and you." Sakura reminded the boy.
Sasuke turned his head towards the window as he stared at the sky. Many thoughts of his older brother saying he was nothing, and the words and what he wanted from Naruto kept repeating themselves in his head.
*END OF FLASHBACK*
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---- Naruto's Room ----
Sasuke looked away from the blonde's face, as he now understood the two simple words Naruto indirectly spoke to him.
"He's sorry... He's sorry because I asked him not to interfere when I caught up with him and Itachi ..." Sasuke now understood those words as he was shocked that even this loudmouth would apologize for something Sasuke knew that wasn't his fault.
"Sasuke ...?" Naruto murmured as he stirred in his bed, and got closer to the edge of it.
Sasuke's eyes focused on Naruto's as these ones slowly opened. Sasuke simply placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder and shook him a little to wake him up faster.
"Wake up dobe." Sasuke demanded, as his eyes locked with those bright blue eyes.
"What am I ... Where am I...?" Naruto asked as he slowly opened his eyes to meet, for a short moment, the soft eyes of Sasuke.
Sasuke immediately removed his hand from his rival's shoulder, as he returned to his neutral state and stood up. Naruto groggily sat up in his bed, as he rubbed his eyes to clear up his vision.
"You're in your room, in my house." Sasuke replied as he looked away.
"Oh ... Why are you here then?" Naruto asked with a menacing tone.
"You were mumbling so loud in your sleep that I came here to wake you up." Sasuke spoke half the truth.
"You didn't hear anything did you!?" Naruto shouted as his eyes widened, as the first thought that crossed his mind could be that Sasuke would know.
"Why would I be interested in what you mumble during your sleep?" Sasuke shot back, as Naruto immediately relaxed, now assured that his rival hadn't heard a thing.
"What time is it?" Naruto asked as if he was in a hurry.
"It's already dark outside." Sasuke replied.
"I slept all afternoon!?" Naruto yelled, surprised that he actually slept a few hours instead of only a few minutes.
"Hai, so since I like to have it quiet around here, stop shouting." Sasuke demanded with a cold glare.
"Oh, no problem, I'll be out of your way anyway." Naruto replied as he jumped out of bed and went straight towards the window, where his two backpacks laid under its frame.
Sasuke was surprised of the answer the blond gave him, since he would be the kind to always argue until one of them got tired of this argument. He carefully watched his rival, as this one pulled out a few things and simply threw them on the bed, as well as a small box, that contained bandages and ointment.
"What are you doing?" Sasuke asked a bit puzzled by how Naruto acted around him.
"Going out there to train and get some answers." Naruto quickly replied, as he grabbed a black hooded jacket to replace with the one he had on.
"You're not making any sense dobe. Get answers for what? And you're still low on chakra, I doubt Kakashi or ..." Sasuke complained as Naruto quickly turned around and locked eyes with the Uchiha.
"First of all, none of your damn business. I said I would live under the same damn roof as you but nothing obligates me to stay here day and night. Second of all, Kakashi and the others wouldn't give much of a damn about me, so if you want to tell them I left to train, go ahead. Besides, Jiraiya must be peeping at the women's bath again, so he won't have the time, and Kakashi must be reading that perverted book. So do us both a favor, and let me do what I want to and in exchange, I'll leave you all the quiet time you need." Naruto informed the boy with a certain anger in his voice that Sasuke found this strange behavior unlike the Naruto he knew and somewhat cared or respected.
"Fine. But don't come whining at me when you pass out or get wounded again while you're out there." Sasuke let out before he simply walked out of his rival's room, well aware that he shouldn't press the matter. For now.
Minutes passed as Naruto didn't move from his position since Sasuke had left his room, as Naruto simply dropped the few kunais he had in hand, on the wooden floor.
"I actually don't care what happens to me ... As long as I can be strong enough so that my dream doesn't come true." Naruto whispered to himself, as he left the kunais on the floor, and simply changed his current jackets by the new one.
Naruto grabbed his holster as he quickly headed out of his room. While he passed by the kitchen, he caught a small glimpse of Sasuke, before he exited the house and headed for the training grounds.
---- Kitchen ----
Sasuke leaned against the wall, as he looked out the window and watched Naruto's back, as this one retreated form the Uchiha grounds.
"That old man was actually right about Naruto ..." Sasuke thought, as he remembered his serious discussion he had with the legendary sennin the night before.
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FLASHBACK
* Konoha Streets *
Sasuke closed the front door to Naruto's apartment, as his eyes scanned the streets to find the sennin, and try to get some more information out of him.
"Walk with me." Jiraiya said as he appeared behind Sasuke.
"Even better than Kakashi..." Sasuke thought as he decided to go along and play the sennin's game.
"How well do you know the brat?" Jiraiya asked.
"Well enough to know he's an idiot." Sasuke replied without any hesitation .
"Then you do not know him at all ..." Jiraiya trailed off as he continued to walk.
---- Deep in the Training Grounds ----
After a long 30 minutes of walking, the sennin had led the Uchiha boy towards the training grounds where Naruto had trained only hours ago. During their walk, none had spoken one word, as Sasuke seemed lost in his thoughts about what was going on, while the sennin carefully examined Sasuke's features to see how he reacted to Naruto's recent and strange outbursts.
Jiraiya continued to walk as he finally decided to get some rest, while he sat down on the ground, just under a tree, that Naruto had literally massacred in half. Sasuke on the other hand, stared at the ground, rocks and trees, as he didn't remember all the damage being there last time.
"What the hell happened here?" Sasuke asked a bit curious of the answer he might get.
"This is all Naruto's doing. This is where he trains when he wants to be alone and think of nothing else but train." Jiraiya answered as he continued to observe the boy who stood meters away from him, hands stuffed in his pockets.
"That can't be ... This looks like a war zone ..." Sasuke let out, surprised to hear his rival, the dobe, could inflict such damages.
"True, with his chakra alone, he wouldn't be able, but if he used the Kyubi's chakra... " Jiraiya told himself, and awaited for the next question of the dark haired shinobi.
"If you're not going to talk to me, then I'm leaving." Sasuke stated as he was ready to leave, but the sennin didn't give him a chance to.
"Why Naruto?" Jiraiya spoke out, well aware that this would catch the young shinobi's attention.
Sasuke froze in place, as the legendary sennin seemed to know what he was thinking, as he simply let his black bangs cover his dark eyes, and waited for what more this Jiraiya could tell him.
"Before I tell you any more information, I would want you to answer one simple question." Jiraiya started as he awaited for the response of Sasuke.
"Fine." Sasuke replied, a bit annoyed.
"Naruto. What is he to you?" Jiraiya asked with a serious look, as their eyes locked.
"Nani?" Sasuke quickly turned around and locked eyes with the sennin, his hands now, out of his pockets.
"Do you hate him? Or do you care about him? Is he only a rival? Or is he a friend? So tell me, what is Naruto to you. " Jiraiya asked, without blinking once.
"I don't know what you're talking about. I'm leaving." Sasuke stated, but Jiraiya knew that this ha made Sasuke uncomfortable.
"Running away won't make things better." Jiraiya stated which earned him a glare from the boy.
A long moment of silence passed, as the simply sentence Jiraiya spoke, seemed to hit some what of a nerve in the young Uchiha, as both remained frozen in their place, until Sasuke finally spoke with a low voice.
"A rival and a friend ..." Sasuke replied as he clenched his fists.
Jiraiya took this opportunity to stand up on his feet, and walk towards the boy, as he placed a hand on Sasuke's shoulder, to reassure the boy. Sasuke flinched by the touch, but didn't care to look up to the sennin.
"Uchiha Itachi is part of an organization called the Akatsuki. So far all we know is that organization is composed of 9 members. Their main goal is the search for more power." Jiraiya began his explanation, as Sasuke remained calm despite the main discussion revolving around his older brother.
"And what they want is what you told me earlier?" Sasuke asked but knew the answer.
"Hai. Although the Uzumaki Clan isn't that well known in Konoha, but Naruto carries a heavy burden alone, and that burden, is a unique skill and power that he holds within him. And for that reason, they want him to obtain that skill." Jiraiya finished his explanation.
"Similar to Uchiha or the Hyuga Clan is that it?" Sasuke wanted to confirm.
"Closer to the Hyuga family. The branch family to be more specific." Jiraiya continued as he thought of the many ways he could compare Naruto's hard life without revealing the fact that Naruto was the container of the Kyubi.
"Branch family?" Sasuke showed interest in the subject as he turned around to face the sennin.
"As you must know, in the Hyuga Clan, it exists the main family and then the branch family, which they live to only serve and protect the main family. Thus the Branch members, at the age of 3, go through a ceremony where a cursed mark is placed on their forehead." Jiraiya started.
"Then that explains about Neji's hatred towards the main family." Sasuke remembered how Sakura filled him in about the fight between Naruto and Neji, as well as the curse and Neji's father.
"Hai, the curse placed on those that are members of the Branch family, are under the mercy of the Main family. With one move, a member of the Main family could kill one of the Branch. Also, when they die, the secrets of the Byakugan also vanishes with the user." Jiraiya finished his explanation.
"Are you saying that this Uzumaki Clan resembles of the Hyuga Branch members fate?" Sasuke asked a bit surprised.
"Hai. It is a curse but also a great power. But the truth behind this curse, only Naruto can tell you it's true meaning if he decides to share it." Jiraiya informed his student.
"Then why is there only Naruto with that Clan name?" Sasuke asked, since a few things still didn't make any sense.
"The Uzumaki Clan no longer exists. Naruto is the last surviving member." Jiraiya stated, as Sasuke's eyes widened a little.
"How ..." Sasuke wanted to know, but Jiraiya thought ahead.
"The Clan was exterminated a while back, only a few members survived, but unfortunately, when the Kyubi attacked Konoha on October the 10th, they were all killed." Jiraiya spoke, well aware that he had to lie a little about Naruto's origins.
"Wasn't Naruto born on that day?" Sasuke asked a bit confused.
"Hai. His father ... His father died during the battle with the demon, while his mother ... Well his mother died only minutes after giving birth to him. So he was an orphan the moment he was born, and the responsibility of carrying the family's burden, fell on his shoulders. The poor kid has been alone for far too long ... And the Villagers threat him in the worse way, because of the day he was born, as well for taking the life of his parents..." Jiraiya spoke out with sadness as he walked away from Sasuke.
"..." Sasuke remained silent as he learned a lot more in that night about his rival.
"Sasuke ... What you heard about Naruto tonight, I don't want you repeating it to anyone else. Not even him. That boy has already too much to deal with, and I do not wish to add any more pain." Jiraiya spoke honestly as he turned back to meet those dark, confused and yet a bit sadden eyes.
"Why tell me this?" Sasuke asked, confused to why the sennin spoke to him about so much that concerned his rival.
"Because you'll be living under the same roof. I can't be there all the time to watch over him, and you're actually someone Naruto highly respects, although he probably doesn't show it that much..." Jiraiya trailed off.
"You saw how he reacted back there. There's nothing I can do." Sasuke snapped as he felt too many emotions at the same time.
"That's the other thing I wish to talk to you about." Jiraiya stated as he leaned against a nearby tree.
Sasuke raised an eyebrow as he didn't like to feel all these emotions, but many things continued to bother him. How Naruto had a hard life, but yet no one could have actually known since the idiot always laugh, smiles, seems always happy. Perhaps that now explained as well the outburst when Inari ( A/N : Their first C Ranked Mission. Where they fought against Haku and Zabuza. ) spat out that the blond shinobi didn't know what it was to have a hard life.
"You see, after Itachi did his thing with his Sharingan to you, him and Kisame finally left by force. Naruto was the first to reach you. Although he only knew Itachi was your older brother, and was unaware of what happened to your clan, the little brat was ready to pursue them. That brat never thought one moment about the fact he could simply get killed or even about his family secret. All he thought about was how you were injured and he felt it was his fault for not assisting you in the battle. He was ready to blindly go after them, without caring once about his own protection. His only thoughts were focused on taking revenge, for what he did to you." Jiraiya explained the aftermath from when Sasuke was unconscious.
"That idiot ..." Sasuke mumbled as he lowered his gaze to the ground.
"Even when I left Konoha with him to get the fifth Hokage, it was obvious that something still troubled him. Despite all that, he always smiled and appeared happy, but hid his true feelings. I guess that's how he managed to survive and continue with his life, until we came back ..." Jiraiya trailed off as he closed his eyes momentarily.
"Then why did he freak out when he saw me an hour ago?" Sasuke asked, curious to the answer.
"What do you have in common with Itachi?" Jiraiya asked which immediately earned him a deadly glare form the Uchiha.
"I am nothing like aniki!" Sasuke spat out as his Sharingan appeared within his eyes and his fist clenched.
"Take a good look in the water over there. And you'll see exactly what Naruto saw." Jiraiya pointed out to the river, only a few meters away from their current position.
Sasuke obeyed as he walked over to the river and kneeled down to look carefully at his reflection in the water. Jiraiya followed, as he stood next to the boy, as Sasuke's eyes widened upon the sight of his reflection.
"When anyone mentions Itachi, your hatred takes over and your Sharingan immediately appears without you even being aware of it. When you pinned down Naruto earlier, the first thing he saw was Sharingan eyes that glared at him with an intense hate and the will to kill." Jiraiya explained, as he placed a hand on Sasuke's shoulder, while his Sharingan faded.
"What he saw, wasn't me ... but Itachi ..." Sasuke murmured, still shocked by the truth behind the sennin's words.
"Listen kid, if you two really hated each other, I wouldn't have proposed to Tsunade to put both of you under the same roof. So far, no one can get close enough to him to know what's really wrong with him. The only person who might be able to help him, is you." Jiraiya informed the boy with a sincere voice.
"Me? Help dobe?" Sasuke thought as he placed a hand on his knee.
"I'm not asking you to become his best friend or anything, but if you do respect him. Then, do take care of him. Perhaps you'll both be able to heal old wounds with time, by helping each other." Jiraiya spoke out as he removed his hand and began to walk away.
"Wait!" Sasuke raised his voice as he quickly stood up and turned around to only see the back of the sennin.
"Yes?" Jiraiya asked, barely turning his head towards the boy.
"Have you forgotten that being a shinobi you need to discard your emotions?" Sasuke asked, still a bit angered.
"A shinobi is stronger when protecting someone or something, then simply fighting for revenge. I believe Naruto showed you that when you both fought against Gaara." Jiraiya reminded the boy.
"..." Sasuke stayed silent, as he knew the sennin was about to finish what he started.
"A shinobi without emotion, becomes a tool you discard when you are no longer need Sasuke. If a shinobi didn't have any emotions, then why do any of us continue to live? The truth is, during a mission, a shinobi shouldn't let his feelings interfere with his or her mission, but sometimes, those feelings and emotions, are exactly what saves us, and make us human." Jiraiya replied with a gentle tone and a smile.
With that said, Jiraiya left the training grounds, while Sasuke remained at his position, his head lowered to the ground, as though he's ashamed or something. Sasuke then raised his head so he could stare up at the evening sky.
"Chikushou ..." Sasuke cursed under the moonlight, as he knew deep down within himself, that the sennin spoke the truth.
END OF FLASHBACK
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*Sasuke's House*
---- Kitchen ----
"Me and him have more things in common than I would have thought ..." Sasuke let out, as he no longer had his rival in sight.
Knock knock
Sasuke turned his head around, as this was unusual for someone to actually knock on his door. He let out a sigh as he walked towards the front door and slowly opened it.
"If you're here to talk again, I don't need it." Sasuke coldly said to the pink haired girl.
"Sasuke-kun, I just wanted to make sure Naruto wasn't getting on your nerves or anything." Sakura spoke out as she crossed her fingers.
"You annoy me more than him. Now leave." Sasuke demanded with his cold tone.
"But Sasuke-kun, you both have been acting strange ever since he came back from god knows where and you since you woke up and left the hospital." Sakura reminded her long time crush.
"Just leave us both alone." Sasuke replied as he shut the door right in her face and stepped back into his kitchen.
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*Outside Sasuke's House*
---- The Front Door ----
"Sasuke usually isn't this cold towards me ... Naruto must have done something." Sakura told herself as she started to walk away. "HELL YEAH! NARUTO'S THE PROBLEM NOT MY SASUKE!" Inner Sakura shouted as she waved her fists around.
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*Inside Sasuke's House*
---- Kitchen ----
Sasuke walked towards his kitchen table, while he let out a sigh. Partly relieved he finally got rid of Sakura sooner than he thought possible. He then turned his head slightly and stared at Naruto's door room.
"Sasuke. I'm sure Naruto trusts and respects you. But know this. Naruto doesn't give that trust or respect to just anyone." Sasuke remembered Jiraiya telling him that last night.
"That idiot ..." Sasuke mumbled before he started to walk towards his own room.
---- Sasuke's Room ----
Sasuke opened the door to his room, as he headed straight for his nightstand. He kneeled down to the floor, one knee against the ground, while he reached in and grabbed a few kunais.
As he stood up, his eyes came across that picture they took as Team 7. Without any second thought, with his free hand, he grabbed the frame which held the picture and carefully studied it.
"I have already lost everything important to me once ... I never want to see an important friend die in front of me again." Sasuke remembered all too well those words he spoke to Naruto, during their battle against the half transformed Gaara.
Sasuke placed the frame back on the nightstand, as he began to walk away, until he reached the doorframe.
"Aniki ... this time, I won't let you take away the last thing that's important to me ..." Sasuke spoke out to the room as he headed out to find Naruto.
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*Training Grounds*
Naruto walked up to the place where he was yesterday to finally notice the true damages he inflicted upon the land and trees.
"I have to find a way to ask that stupid fox why he hasn't been healing my hand ..." Naruto thought when he remembered how he first met the fox in the first place.
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FLASHBACK
Jiraiya and Naruto walked down in a clear path through the forest, as Jiraiya seemed mostly serious while Naruto had still understood why his current sensei wanted him to do all the things he wanted before the next step in training.
"Hey? Is a frog actually going to come out by doing things like this?" Naruto asked still confused.
"Hai. That's for sure." Jiraiya replied as they continued to walk.
"Really?" Naurto asked, a bit suspicious of the sennin's true motivations.
"Is there nothing you will regret anymore?" Jiraiya asked as he stopped walking.
"Huh?" Naruto asked as the sennin slightly turned around to look down at Naruto.
"Is there?" Jiraiya asked as he faced his only student.
"What are you talking ..." Naruto started all confused when he felt a strong pain in his stomach.
Naruto's eyes widened, as the last thing he remembered was the sennin that punched him hard enough, so that the by would fall unconscious. Jiraiya simply looked down to his unconscious students, as a few thoughts crossed his mind at that moment.
"To pull out and use a large amount of chakra ... It sure is hard just to control it. Also, his body is too small to accept Kyubi's chakra." Jiraiya thought as he kneeled down to his student. "I suppose his body normally refuses the Kyubi's chakra to avoid the extra burden. If the key to pull out Kyubi's chakra is to risk his life ...Then I need to have him learn how to use the key with his body. Don't hold a grudge ... Fourth Hokage ..." Jiraiya finished as he picked up the boy and placed him over his shoulder and walked to their new destination.
---- 15 Minutes Later ----
Jiraiya simply threw Naruto's body, face first, on the ground, as he waited for the boy to wake up. After a few more minutes, Naruto finally woke up, as he lifted his body off the ground and kneeled on the ground. His eyes showed confusion as he looked around.
"Huh? Where is this place?" Naruto asked as his eyes scanned his surroundings.
"Stand up!" Jiraiya ordered his student, as he stood before the boy.
"What?" Naruto asked still confused as he stood up before his teacher.
"Your training is to end now." Jiraiya informed him with a serious tone.
"You haven't done anything yet!" Naruto shouted as he pointed his fist towards the sennin.
"Naruto! Go die form now." The sennin ordered as Naruto relaxed.
"Die?" Naruto repeated the word.
Try pulling out the big chakra from the fear of the death. And experience it with your body and get the trick. If you don't want to die, do something by yourself. OK?" Jiraiya informed the boy who seemed confused.
Narutow as about to say something, when the sennin placed a single finger on the boy's forehead and before Naruto could even registered what just happened, he was sent flying backwards through the bushed, until there was nothing more under him but deep darkness.
Naruto screamed as he noticed he was falling into a bottomless pit, while the sennin walked up to the edge and looked down to his falling student.
"Show me whether the power given to you is really for you." Jiraiya let out as he could only observe and wait for the result.
---- In The Pit ----
Naruto's body turned so that he could face the danger, as many thoughts crossed his mind.
"If I don't grab it ... I'll die!" Naruto told himself, as he brought his hands together and gathered chakra to his feet and hands. "Now!" Naurto yelled out as he grabbed one of the spikes from the wall.
---- From Above ----
Jiraiya saw the attempt on Naruto's part as he knew that is wouldn't work.
It's useless. The cliff is slippery because of the water from the water fall. Also, falling down at that speed ... It's impossible to stick to the rocks with your chakra control. Naruto. Only one thing is left to depend on. Kyubi's chakra. Open the key ... This time, you're the one commanding it." Jiraiya smiled in part as he continued to observe.
---- Down In The Pit ----
Naruto failed to stick to the spikes on the outer walls, as he continued to plunge to his certain death, unless he could finally tap within that powerful chakra.
"If it's like this ...Like this ... I'll really die!" Naruto continued to repeat that sentence, as he felt many heartbeats within his own body.
---- Within Naruto ----
Naruto found himself in some place dark, as he slowly stood up and walked towards the endless corridors. A certain growl picked up his curiosity as he headed for a big room.
Within minutes, he found himself before a great entrance with bars, along with a piece of paper, well placed over the lock. The boy looked up and finally understood what it meants.
"This is ..." Naruto couldn't finish as his eyes focused on that piece of paper.
Seconds later, on the other side of the bars, an immense amount of chakra could be felt, as two glowing red eyes, and an enormous fox grin like appeared before Naruto.
"It's huge ... What is it?" Naruto asked within his mind.
"Hey kid ... Come a bit closer." The form demanded as it glared down to the boy.
Naruto not knowing what was actually going on, simply steped forward as he was asked, to only be greeted with 3 sharp claws that came through the steel bars. Naruto jumped back by fear, as he sat down on his ass, afraid of this creature.
"I want to eat you up, but this gate doesn't open. It's because of this annoying seal." The figure spoke out as he narrowed his eyes.
"You are ... Kyubi ... I see. The red chakra is his." Naruto finally understood as he stood back up and stared at Kyubi through the bars.
"You finally have come down here to see me ... What brought you here?" The fox asked, a bit curious of the answer he would get.
"Hey, stupid fox! Since I'm letting you stay in my body ... Lend me your chakra as rent." Naruto took on his serious look as he waited for the fox's answer.
The fox simply laughed, at what this small human had just demanded out of one of the greatest demons in the world.
"You're saying if you die, I'll die too in the end. You got some guts to threaten me." Kyubi spoke out with a grin, as red chakra came form under the cage and wrapped itself around Naruto, which restrained him from any movements.
"Alright. I'll give you some as a reward for you coming down here." Kyubi spoke while he laughed, and Naruto screamed out of fear.
---- In The Pit ----
Naruto shot open his eyes as he continued to fall down until he felt this power within his body and bit the tip of his finger to release his blood.
"This feeling!" Naruto remembered this feeling all too well as he performed the correct seals to summon. "Kuchiyose-no-jutsu!" Naruto yelled out as he placed his hand before him.
Blue chakra came out of his hand at first, as soon the red chakra appeared as well to complete the summoning jutsu. Smoke appear, as hands came out of the smoke and braced itself against each side of the wall. The smoke vanished to reveal a giant frog as Naruto landed on it's head.
END OF FLASHBACK
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*Training Grounds*
Naruto grinned, before he brought his hands together to perform his favorite jutsu.
"Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" Naruto yelled out as 2 clones appeared next to him.
The two clones took a few steps ahead as they waited for Naruto's orders, while this one simply patted his wounded hand.
"Listen up. We'll be fighting against each other for a few minutes and after that, I want you two to punch me as hard as you can towards that direction." Naruto informed them as he pointed to the bushes behind him, near the river.
"Hai!" Both clones yelled out, as the training began.
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*Sasuke's House*
A certain Jounin slowly walked towards the front door, as he wanted to check up on both his students, until his eyes caught a glimpse of something white and red.
"Why are you here ... Kakashi?" Jiraiya asked, his arms crossed, while he leaned against a tree.
"Naruto wasn't at his best this afternoon, so I came here to check up on him." Kakashi answered.
"The boys aren't here." Jiraiya informed the Jounin.
"Where are they then?" Kakashi asked as he turned around to face the sennin.
"My guess is Naruto's back on his private part of the training ground, and I hope Sasuke isn't too far away from him." Jiraiya informed him with a serious look.
"Aren't you suppose to keep on eye on him?" The Jounin shot back a bit angered of how the sennin neglected Naruto.
"I'm having some inside help ..." Jiraiya mumbled as he pushed himself off the tree and got closer to the Jounin. "You should come. The Hokage wants to have a word with you about your last mission today." Jiraiya informed the Jounin with a serious look.
"Naruhodo." Kakashi let out as he stepped away from the front door to join the sennin.
Jiraiya placed his hands together, as him and Kakashi vanished in a cloud of thick smoke, on their way to Hokage's office.
============================================================================ ======================
*Training Grounds*
Sasuke quickly found his way through the training grounds, since last night, Jiraiya had brought him there to talk.
"A place where he only trains to get his mind off things... This has to be the place ..." Sasuke thought as he continued to leap from branch to branch.
After a few more minutes, Sasuke landed on the nearest branch, as he noticed 3 visible Naruto's that fought on the ground. Sasuke leaned forward and observed, while he made sure to conceal his chakra from Naruto.
---- Ground Level ----
Naruto observed his clones carefully, while he waited for them to make their next move. Both clones reached within their holster and pulled out a kunai, while our blond shinobi simply grinned.
"Is that the best you can do?" Naruto asked his two clones.
Both clones lost their smiles as they charged forth and threw their kunais directly at the original Naruto. Naruto quickly pulled out two kunais, one in each hand, as he deflected both attacks easily.
"Why is this so boring ..." Naruto thought, as though he was disappointed by his clone's performance.
Naruto's eyes widened when he noticed both clones vanished form his sight. He carefully scanned the area around him, well aware that his clones would strike him form behind, since the waterfall was in front of him and not behind.
"Guess the time has come for us to have a little talk ... Kyubi ..." Naruto let out in a low voice as he turned around to meet the oncoming attack by his two clones.
---- In The Trees ----
"Why isn't he trying to dodge that?" Sasuke asked himself, as he knew, even without his Sharingan, even Naruto could dodge such a simple attack.
---- Ground Level ----
Naruto turned around, as his two clones reappeared, ready to punch the light out of Naruto, as both their fists connected with Naruto's stomach. Naruto's eyes widened at first from the strength of the attack, but after all, the Kage Bunshin was a real replica of himself.
Naruto tumbled backwards, as his feet never touched the ground again, as he was sent flying through the bushes with an immense force. The clones stared at the original that was no longer in sight, as they exchanged looks, before they vanished in a cloud of smoke.
---- In The Trees ----
Sasuke's eyes widened as Naruto vanished form his sight. Without any second thoughts, he jumped down from the tree as he quickly ran through the bushes in hopes to catch a glimpse of Naruto's body.
---- Ground Level, Through The Bushes ----
Sasuke ran through the bushes, as he could sense Naruto's chakra was very near, until something strange happened. Naruto's chakra seemed to be in conflict and seemed to be going no longer forward but downwards.
"What is happening?" Sasuke asked himself as he accelerated his speed.
After a few seconds, Sasuke suddenly froze in place, as he found himself on the edge of the cliff, and meters away from his position, a falling down Naruto could be seen.
"NARUTO!" Sasuke shouted as he quickly analyzed the situation to maybe save the blond from a certain death.
Sasuke quickly noticed how the mist from the waterfall kept the rocks all slippery, so using chakra to grip it wouldn't work. To this point, Sasuke could only watch and hope Naruto could get out of this.
---- Downfall In The Pit ----
Naruto thought he heard his name being shouted but soon discarded the thought, as he only waited to fall deeper into the abyss, in hopes that he would soon meet Kyubi. Naruto stared at the bright sky, as he closed his eyes and he brought his hand over his heart and clenched the fabric of it.
"This hurts more than the first time ..." Naruto mumbled as he could feel Kyubi's presence.
============================================================================ ======================
*Inside Naruto*
Naruto found himself face down on the watery like floor, while he slowly raised his body off the ground. While he stood up, he carefully looked around, remembering exactly which corridor to take in order to get to Kyubi's cage.
"If I remember correctly, I just have to listen to his growls ..." Naruto remembered how he first found out about Kyubi's emplacement.
Naruto walked through the dark corridors, until he finally found himself, for the second time in his life, in front of the kitsune's cage. The blond boy stared at what was inside, as he crossed his arms and made sure he would be at a safe distance from being killed by the fox.
"Are you trying to kill yourself again?" Kyubi spoke with a fierce voice, as his glowing red eyes were the first to show themselves to the blond shinobi.
"This was the only way I found to get back in here." Naruto honestly answered as his eyes never left those of the kitsune's.
"Why have you come this time then?" Kyubi asked as he showed his sharp teeth.
"Mind explaining this?" Naruto asked, as he uncrossed his arms, and placed forth his right arm.
Naruto slowly unwrapped the bandages around his hand and wrist, as he showed all the cuts and burns on it.
"I have nothing to do with that." Kyubi shot back.
"Wounds like these you're suppose to heal." Naruto commented, which earned him a close encounter with three sharp and deadly claws.
"You can blame yourself stupid brat." Kyubi hissed as he withdrew his claws from the bars.
"Then why don't you explain it to me then? You stupid fox!" Naruto replied with a glare.
"For the past 2 weeks or so, you've been tapping within my chakra too much to my liking. I accepted when that Kabuto guy nearly destroyed your body to lend you some, but since you've returned to this pathetic Village, you have used my chakra for your own personal joy. And as I recall, I'm not obligated to obey the orders of a filthy human, even less a stupid brat." Kyubi mentioned with a creepy growl.
"I have to get strong! And if that means to train like this than so be it! But until you heal my hand, I'm not doing anything." Naruto threatened the fox, but was dead serious about it.
"Then you will die." The fox commented as he turned his back to the blond shinobi.
"I don't care ... It's not like anyone's going to miss me anyway. I ... I just want to make sure that it doesn't come true ..." Naruto mumbled as he lowered his head.
Upon those words, Kyubi stopped and slowly turned his head to look down at this pathetic human. Time passed as Kyubi was becoming more curious than ever about this brat.
"Brat. Why do you continue on this path? Why do you stay in a Village where you are hated for being my container?" Kyubi asked out of curiosity. After all, during his 13 years of imprisonment so far, he had only talked with this boy once, and no one else.
"Because ... Sasuke lost almost everything once ... I don't want to see him suffer like that again. Especially because of me. Because I didn't have the courage, nor the strength or power ... I'm just a useless and hated human ..." Naruto replied with sadness and pain in his voice, which caught the Kyubi's attention.
"Foolish boy ..." Kyubi let out, and immediately Naruto lifted his head to see the Kyubi now faced him.
"Laugh at me all you want! I don't care what you or all the rest of the world think! As long as I can! I will protect the few people that I respect and trust!" Naruto shouted as he clenched his fists and glared at the fox with anger, while tears ran down his cheeks.
"Why sacrifice yourself when all they do is ignore you?" Kyubi asked again by simple curiosity.
"Because their worth it. Iruka-sensei, Sakura-chan ... Sasuke the most... They all treat me in their own way, but we have our good times ..." Naruto began to explain with much passion put into his words.
"The Uchiha?" Kyubi remembered the Clan all too well. "What is that other human worth to you?" Kyubi asked, as this was getting actually interesting.
"Why would the great stupid fox be interesting in that?" Naruto shot back.
"Answer." Kyubi demanded the young shinobi.
"Well, it's not like you can talk to any one else about it ... To me ... He's my friend ... My only friend ..." Naruto mumbled as he lowered his head and evaded those deadly red eyes of the fox.
"Interesting ..." Kyubi thought as he continued to observe this boy.
"But, I doubt he feels the same way ..." Naruto confessed and sighed.
"For a stupid human, you prove to be somewhat ... Interesting. Perhaps you should live a while longer, to entertain me ..." Kyubi stated and grinned.
"What are you grinning at?" Naruto demanded and answer as he locked eyes with the ferocious fox.
"Because you never cease to amaze me with your stupidity, I will heal your arm, but you'll be put into a deep sleep for 24 hours." Kyubi stated.
"NANI!? WHAT FOR?" Naruto demanded his answer.
Kyubi grinned as his red chakra slid under the cage and wrapped itself around Naruto. Naruto began to panic, since that evil grin wasn't too good to see, especially when it's from a demon.
"You will get the rest you need to regain your own chakra. I advise you to not tap into my own chakra for a long or you will suffer the consequences." The fox threatened the boy.
Before Naruto could say anything, the red chakra engulfed him completely, as he couldn't move and slowly, he fell asleep. Kyubi observed the red ball of chakra that surrounded his host, as he whispered something, that only he was aware of.
"Show me your true strength. Uzumaki Naruto." Kyubi let out as he walked away from the metals bars and deeper within his cage, away from the ball of chakra, and into the darkness.
============================================================================ ======================
*The Cliff*
From above, Sasuke continued watch as he had trouble to even see Naruto that continued to fall, as though he wanted this to happen, since the blond did nothing to actually try to save himself.
"Come on Naruto ..." Sasuke thought as he activated his Sharingan to at least trace his chakra.
Suddenly, a loud sound was heard, as smoke appeared underneath Naruto's body. The next thing Sasuke knew, Narruto seemed to have landed on something big, red and had clothes on.
---- Down In The Pit ----
"What the hell is going on!?" Gamabunta demanded as his four paws were hooked tightly against the spiked wet walls of the pit.
After his conversation with the Kyubi, Naruto had quickly summoned Gamabunta, well aware that he was the reason he got out of there alive the first time. Naruto sat on top of the frog's head, well aware that this one wouldn't be pleased to be in this situation again.
"Sorry boss, but I needed to have a talk with a stupid fox." Naruto explained, as Gamabunta tried to glare at the boy.
"How dare you summon me in this place again!? Did Jiraiya put you up to this again!?" Gamabunta wanted and answer now.
"Just get us out of this pit, and I'll explain when we'll be on the land." Naruto explained as he gathered the few of his chakra left to stick onto the frog's back.
"He's not as annoying and loud as usual ... Something must have happened. Jiraiya will have some explaining to do when I find him ..." Gamabunta told himself, as it was too obvious that something was odd about his subordinate.
---- On The cliff ----
Sasuke's eyes widened as an orange blur came from deep within the pit and exited it fast enough, that the dark haired boy, braced himself from all the wind that swirled around him.
"What the hell was that!?" Sasuke asked himself as he lowered his arms and looked into the sky.
The dark orange blur, was high up in the sky, when it finally landed near the training grounds. Sasuke lost no time as he headed straight for that direction.
---- Landing Site ----
Gamabunta took his original position, while Naruto jumped off the boss's head and onto the ground to face the giant frog.
"Thanks for the save boss." Naruto thanked him with his false smile.
"Naruto! Why do you continue to call me in such situations?" Gamabunta asked as he spat out some smoke from his mouth.
"I needed and answer from that stupid fox about my hand. So I ended up going down there again. So, sorry about summoning you there again." Naruto apologized as he scratched the back of his head.
"I'll have to talk to him ..." Gamabunta thought as he decided to play the game until he could find that pervert.
"Naruto!" A familiar voice shouted his name.
"Huh?" Naruto turned back to where the sound came from.
"It seems someone has come for him..." Gamabunta thought as he decided to have Naruto deliver a message that only Jiraiya could comprehend. "Naruto! Tell Jiraiya that I need to speak to him as soon as possible. You got that!?" The frog wanted to be sure Naruto would do so.
"Sure!" Naruto replied.
Gamabunta disappeared in a cloud of smoke and at that precise moment, Sasuke appeared, not too far from Naruto. Naruto turned around to notice Sasuke was actually a few meters away from him.
"Sasuke? What are you doing here?" Naruto asked, a bit confused.
"I could ask you the same question. You're the one that fell down into a pit." Sasuke let out.
"Whatever. At least I finally got my answer." Naruto replied as he brought his right arm in front of him.
"Answer? Answer to what?" Sasuke asked.
"To this." Naruto replied as he took off his jacket and discarded it on the dirty ground.
Naruto slowly unwrapped the bandages to reveal his skin was slowly healing, as Sasuke simply stared, amazed at his speed of healing. After a few seconds, his hand was back as new, but he suddenly felt a small pain in his stomach. Instinctively, he grabbed his stomach, and leaned a little forward, while Sasuke remained alert.
"What the hell's going on?" Naruto asked within his mind.
"I healed as promised, but now you must rest to regain your own chakra." Kyubi spoke within the boy's mind, accompanied by a laughter.
"Baka Kitsune ..." Naruto let out before he closed his eyes and let darkness consume him.
"What's wrong Narut ..." Sasuke couldn't even finish when he noticed Naruto's body fall forward.
With his quick reflexes, Sasuke rushed forward as he grabbed the blond shinobi within his arms. Naruto's head resting on Sasuke's shoulder, while the dark haired boy had his arms tightly wrapped the boy's waist.
"Naruto!" Sasuke yelled out, as he dragged his rival's body to the nearest tree.
Sasuke gently laid Naruto against the tree, as he kneeled before the unconscious boy. Without any second thought, Sasuke brushed those golden locks out of those sleeping eyes, as he was reassured that his rival was only asleep.
"You idiot! You almost got yourself killed!" Sasuke shouted, as he punched the ground next to Naruto's side.
Sasuke lowered his head near the ground, his bangs covering his dark onyx eyes, until something wet fell on the ground. Sasuke stared at the ground, as he slowly raised his head, eyes widened, by what was happening. Sasuke brought his hand near his eyes, as his fingers touched something warm, and liquid like.
"This ... This hasn't happened since ... Why am I ..." Sasuke mumbled as he couldn't believe he actually had tears in his eyes.
============================================================================ ======================
*Tsunade's Office*
Jiraiya and Kakashi appeared in Tsunade's office, as she stood, a meter away from them, as though she was waiting for their arrival.
"What took you so long?" Tsunade asked, arms crossed, and seemed slightly pissed.
"I had to find him first you know." Jiraiya sarcastically said.
"Why did you want to see us anyway?" Kakashi asked, curious to what couldn't wait.
"I just received information from an Anbu team I sent in the Mist Country." Tsunade started.
"What reasons?" Kakashi asked.
"Since Itachi's last visit here, I had several Anbu teams track him and this Kisame down. I just received word that both have been spotted in that Country. I'm sending an Anbu team there, and would ask if you could join them." Tsunade explained as she waited for the Jounin's answer.
"I still have Team 7 to train." Kakashi stated.
"I currently don't have many missions and I can always assign them with either Asuma, Gai or Kurenai's team if needed." Tsunade reassured the Jounin.
"If you don't mind Tsunade, I would like to join the team as well." Jiraiya asked.
"Jiraiya, I need you to keep a close eye on our boy ..." Tsunade objected to his proposal, as the Jounin closely observed.
"I want to deal with Itachi myself. I have a few questions to ask him anyway. As for the well being of our boy, Sasuke's currently watching over him, as for an adult to check up on them, you could always ask that Umino Iruka guy since Naruto seemed fond of him." Jiraiya proposed to reassure both of them.
"I understand your reasons Jiraiya, but I can't just send anyone on this mission. Don't forget this is a highly ranked one." Tsunade reminded the sennin.
"If Jiraiya decides to go with the team I suppose I could watch over both boys since they are both in my team." Kakashi spoke out as Tsunade turned her attention back to the Jounin.
"Kakashi, I know you want to check up mostly on Naurto, but you'Ve dealt with Itachi before, and we need that experience to help us. But when you come back, I'll be sure to leave you full access and you'll be informed of everything concerning Naruto." Tsunade offered the Jounin, since she knew he would accept, if he could get to know his student better.
"Tsunade. I never ask anything from you. So I'm asking you to send me with them. IF we do encounter Itachi, Kakashi's going to need all the back up he needs." Jiraiya demanded once again with a serious voice.
"I agree. To have one of the three legendary sennins with the Anbu team and myself would even the odds better." Kakashi commented as he supported the sennin.
"Very well. I'll put Iruka in charge of watching over our two boys while both of you are gone. But if things get too serious, I want both of you back here. We don't need more bodies to burry ..." Tsunade commented with a sad voice, as she remembered the burial of the Third Hokage.
"We will. Do you have the details of this mission?" Kakashi asked.
"Hai." Tsunade replied as she walked towards her desk and grabbed two scrolls.
"When do we leave?" Jiraiya asked.
"The sooner the better." Tsunade responded as she threw them a scroll each with the mission details.
"You should just say now you know?" Jiraiya replied with an irritated voice.
"And miss your reaction?" Tsunade replied and then smirked.
"Has the Anbu team been selected?" Kakashi asked, as he placed the scroll in one of his pockets.
"Hai. They're waiting at Konoha's Gates. They expect you to be there in half an hour at most. I'll take care to inform Iruka-sensei of the situation, but for both boy's sake, I'll just tell them you were needed for something important. We don't need Sasuke running off after his older brother ..." Tsunade trailed off as she remembered what she read in the reports of Gai and Jiraiya.
"Then we leave it in your hands." Jiraiya said as he waited for the Jounin to be ready to leave.
"Take care of them ..." Kakashi said before he vanished in a cloud of smoke, and left only Tsunade and Jiraiya present in the room.
"He really cares about both of them ..." Tsunade let out, surprised by Kakashi's concern for both boys.
"You had doubts?" Jiraiya asked.
"Just what I heard from Naruto." Tsunade half explained.
"Well, I'll be off. I'll be back soon." Jiraiya said with a nice pose as he disappeared in a cloud of smoke as well.
"Hopefully I'll be able to eliminate at least one threat to Konoha ..." Tsunade thought as she returned to her desk and finish the night.
============================================================================ ======================
*Somewhere ...*
Kisame walked in the forest, alone, until another figure appeared in front of him, dressed in a black mantle, and a Chinese like hat.
"Took you long enough ... Itachi-san." Kisame smirked
"Have the Leaf made a move yet?" Itachi demanded an answer.
"Hai. Seems that an Anbu team will be after us as well as the Sharingan Kakashi. But what intrigued me mostly, is the fact that the legendary sennin Jiraiya is joining in as well." Kisame informed the Uchiha.
"Good. Now we move to the second step ... Itachi let out as he started to walk down the path.
"This will be interesting to see ..." Kisame commented as he caught up with Itachi.
TBC ...
============================================================================ ======================
Chapter finally done! I had this mini writer's block on what this chapter would consist of, since some wanted some stuff to happen between Sasuke and Naruto, but I don't like rushing into things so the characters don't end up being so OCC. But stuff will get more interesting that's for sure,
35 Reviews! Me so happy! Keep up those reviews people and this will help me a lot more than you think! By the way, this chapter was 10, 500 + words, so I worked really really hard to write this, so hope you appreciate! Let me rephrase, you BETTER appreciate it!!! Lol.
With that aside, I didn't think this chapter would end up like this but at the last minute, I had major inspiration and then I like the new twist I added to it! Hope you enjoy and Please REVIEW!
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REVIEWS
Ookami Kage : I'm so happy to know you loved it! And I can't wait for you to update your stories!
Foamy and Foolproof : I know I'm in the depressed side of Naruto but things will get better, although I did almost kill him, but was the only logical way Naruto would know to contact the Kyubi, although it was almost suicidal...
Gina Reed : Gomen! I tried to update sooner but I was a bit blocked and I had like 4 stories due for like last week-end but only came out like two days ago, so I decided to work on this one all Friday long! Hope you enjoyed it!
Nikkler : Nikkler-san! I gave you the answer to why Kyubi wasn't healing Naruto's wound! Although it was strange, but in my mind, Naruto could only think of that way to communicate with him, besides he could summon Gamabeta if wanted to save his cute little ass again. Hope you enjoyed this chapter too! And update your stories!
Monkan : Monkan-san! I so can't wait for an update on my favorite story from you. The one called ' What You Left Me ' I so love it, and so happy to have someone like you to review a story from me!
Dark Mimiru-chan : Gomen! I didn't notice that mistake, but thanks for telling me, when I get some free time, I'll try to correct those mistakes. Thanks for reviewing!
Silverknight7 : Indeed, poor Naruto, but anyone would be depressed if they went through what our poor kitsune has.
Dearest : Well I started some small fluff but gotta start there before anything else gets serious ne? I'm also glad to know you enjoy this fic since this is one that takes a great amount of time to write just like my other popular fic ' A NEW PATH '.
BlueAngelFire :Why Naruto's hasn't been able to heal? That question was answered in this chapter. Also, I update ' RETURN TO ME ' And I think it's getting better although it didn't turn out like I wanted it, but as long as people review and like it I'll continue to write for you sweet people!
Life's Garnet : I'm glad you enjoy the fic, cuz it really helps me to continue to write although I have 7 on going stories to update lol. But that's good for you people ne?
Insanechildfanfic : Poor Naruto-kun indeed. But things will get better but I do have lots of twists planned for this story!
Someone : I'm glad you enjoy this fic, and I'm not planning anything sappy at all, things will develop on their own but somehow fast since these are LONG chapters, always stick around the 7000 + words so far. Hope you enjoyed this chapter too.
Naito Kiseki : I'm glad you enjoy it. What helps me even more is the fact you support the way I don't rush into things between our cute to be couple. Also, I also had in mind why Naruto never got depressed or anything, so I took up yet another challenge. Most of my fics are based on that reason alone. Plus you found out what that conversation was. Hope to hear from you soon.
Iceheart 19 : Well if I ever need a beta reader I'll let you know, but so far I got better with comments from reviewers and I'm getting good I think, just some stupid mistakes here and there, and when I'm rushed into releasing chapters. But thanks anyway!
:D : I can surprise people with my endings, but glad you enjoyed it!
Yasai-Chan : I'm very happy to know you enjoy the fic, and I'm very aware I do throw in some stuff, but it comes to explain many others from the past as well as those to come. Hope this chapter answered some of your questions and was a good chapter ne?
Falcon Rider : I update as I can! Having 7 stories to update weekly is hard and the fact that I was called to work last week-end made me update later. Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well!
Eyes0nme19 : Thanks for the compliment hope you enjoyed this chapter!
YukaYuka : Yep I'm French, but I find English way better because of those great shows on tv. Those French series over here really suck. Anyway, I know it can take me up to 3 days to write a chapter of this story because I have many ideas but then I don't want to rush into things.
Arbil : Soon he won't keep everything bottled up inside of him. You just wait and see!
Duochang97 : Glad you appreciate the long chapters! Because they demand a lot and then I gotta think of when to cut them lol. Hope you continue to review and enjoy the fic.
Watermelon Gal : Our cute kit will be back soon, so no worries, he just needs some attention and all to get him out of that darkness. But you know, Sasuke will work his way and try to make things better in his own way ...
Shea89 : Thanks for reviewing!
Lydia*Blessing : If you like the Gaara x Naruto pairing, check out my other story called ' A NEW PATH '.
C.M Aeris Queen of Insanity : Deep down Naruto cares about his teamate since Sasuke didn't totally ignore him, but our little kitsune is in depression and hopefully Sasuke can help him heal.
Angie-Chan : Sorry for the character change but it's necessary for my story to continue but no worries, he should soon feel like his old self.
Kuroi Kitsune : Indeed, I live in Quebec and You don't' see too many English speaking people except in maybe Montreal and Old Quebec City. Also nice to know someone else that lives in Canada. Now for the story, I'm really glad you enjoy it, and very glad you took time to review, I'll update as I can, but after this one is posted, I'm working on the last story to update this week my TWIST OF FATE, whish is in a crucial part at the moment ... Anyway, continue to review I highly appreciate it!
Shadow Eclipse : It's hard to describe clothing properly and I'm really happy you like this fic so far and hopefully you'll love the rest to come.
Yuka Sakura : French is hard! I so hate, because every word means many things, and then the grammar and so on. It's hell! I appreciate when people point out my errors, helps me improve so many more will now review after reading my fic.
Tidus2529 : As you might know, I can't just go like one chapter to the next they sleep together and do it. I take my time to develop the things but the fluff has started and things will get more interesting, so please be a bit more patient.
Nekomoongirl : Many either like the current Naruto or simply don't. For those like you who don't, well honestly, if you were Naruto, wouldn't you be depressed after all this time? I sure would be since my life is similar to that. Anyway, things will get back to normal soon enough, have some patience.
Nicki-gurl : No problem, I'm happy you enjoy my chapters and stories. Hopefully I won't disappoint any of you!
Rubymoon17 : Thanks for the review. For a moment I thought you abandoned me since I haven't seen you review A NEW PATH yet and that one is updated. Glad to have you back! Hope this chapter was to your liking.
Ash of Mine : I totally agree, I would have snapped a long time ago you know? I know there's some angst and all, but things will get better, and there's some fluff here and there, one-sided for the moment, but it shows Sasuke cares and Naruto would freak out in his current condition if he found out ne? Hope that helps!
Uchiha- Keiki : I update as I can, and it's really hard to update weekly all 7 fics, so I do my best! But the fic with most reviews is the first that I try to update.
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Next Chapter :
Sasuke takes care of Naruto, as the two share a special moment, while Jiraiya and Kakashi finally catch up to Kisame and Itachi. How will things turn out???
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Read and REVIEW everyone
Comments and ideas are always appreciated you know??
Also, check out some of my other works if you didn't already!
Till next time!
Ookima
Chapter 5 : Past and Present
Synopsis : Naruto's condition seems to go from bad to worse, as this one decides to go train and get an answer to why the Kyubi has yet healed his wounded hand. Sasuke remembers his serious talk with the sennin as he sets out to find Naruto, to only realise that this one is in danger!
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Pairings : Sasuke x Naruto
Other Pairings : Undetermined for now
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WARNINGS : Will contain SHONEN-AI, in other words, boy loves boy. If you don't like then don't read.
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SMALL NOTE : In this chapter you'll find out why Kyubi has yet healed Naruto's hand, as well as the serious discussion that took place between Jiraiya and Sasuke.
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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.
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JUTSU LIST
- Kuchiyose no Jutsu - Summoning Skill - Description: Using a contract, seal, and the users blood, allows the user to summon an animal. The type of the animal is determined by the contract used, and the blood is the 'signature'(Which can be on a scroll, tattoo, etc).
- Kage Bunshin no Jutsu - Shadow Clone Skill : A forbidden jutsu, that creates clones - which are not just plain illusions (like the normal bunshin no jutsu). Each clone is an exact replica of the user, capable of attacking. A direct hit causes the clone to disappear.
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JAPANESE WORDS
- Baka = Idiot -
- Arigatou = Thank You -
- Iie = No -
- Chikushou = Damn it / Damn -
- Urusai = Shut Up -
- Aniki = Brother -
- Kitsune = Fox -
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--- RECAP ---
*Nightfall*
The rest of the afternoon, Sasuke had tormented himself with the many questions he still needed to ask, but he knew that he shouldn't just force the answers out of Naruto, although that would be his usual style.
When the night started to set in, Sasuke decided perhaps he should make something to eat. After all, Naruto still needed to regain both his strength as well as his chakra.
So, Sasuke decided he'll try to get Naruto to eat something, but to make no mistakes, he would ask the blond himself what he would like, but deep down already knew that it would be ramen.
"He should make his own damn food ..." Sasuke debated within himself as he prepared to knock when he heard mumbles from within his rival's room.
Sasuke thought for a moment before he decided to simply walk inside the room. He then noticed Naruto was still in his bed, although all he saw was the blonde's back.
"Oy dobe, what do you want to eat?" Sasuke asked as he crossed his arms and waited for an answer.
After another minute, Sasuke's blood started to boil since the blond paid no attention to him. The dark haired boy decided to walk around the bed so he could come face to face with Naruto. When he finally met the other side, he shook slightly the boy's shoulder until this one's face came visible to Sasuke's eyes.
"What the ...?" Sasuke let out as he removed his hand from the blonde's shoulder.
Sasuke took a step back, as his eyes were focused with Naruto's face. Naruto was sleeping, but what caught the Uchiha off guard was that tears streamed down his face and didn't seem to stop.
"Why? Why am I so weak?" Naruto mumbled in his sleep as tears continued to fall from his eyes.
Sasuke simply observed the boy, not really knowing what he should actually do. He simply kneeled next the bed as his hands moved on their own to gently wipe those warm tears off his red cheeks.
"It's my fault ..." Naruto mumbled again but it seemed to be different this time.
Sasuke carefully observed the blond with a bit of worry, as she gently stroke his blond hair out of the boy's face.
"It's my fault ..." Naruto repeated again.
"What is he talking about?" Sasuke asked himself, as he stopped every movement and stared at him.
"It's my fault ... That Sasuke was hurt ..." Naruto finally finished his sentence, while Sasuke's eyes widened.
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"His fault...? The only times I got hurt was on our first C ranked mission, during the Chuunin exam, then when my curse took over while I fought Gaara ..." Sasuke thought of the moments he was injured when the last scene crossed his mind. "Itachi ..." Sasuke mumbled as he recalled the first day he woke up after he had found his older brother.
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*FLASHBACK*
---- Konoha's Hospital ----
---Inside Sasuke's Bedroom---
Sasuke sat on his bed but still felt the pain near his stomach, although he was in a coma for two weeks, his ribs still hadn't healed as fast.
"Why did Itachi want Naruto? He's weaker than me." Sasuke thought when Sakura returned with a glass of water.
"Sasuke-kun you weren't suppose to sit up." Sakura reminded the boy.
"Sakura, I can't drink if I'm lying down." Sasuke informed the pink haired girl.
Sakura cursed herself for being somewhat dumb at the moment as she gave the glass of water to Sasuke and sat down in the chair again.
"Naruto was here earlier?" Sasuke asked indirectly.
"Oh that reminds me. That idiot came here like 15 minutes ago, wanted me to give you a message but I still don't get if he was serious about it. He was acting more weird than usual." Sakura commented.
Sasuke placed the glass on the little table next to his bed and then looked at Sakura.
"What was his message?" Sasuke asked.
"I'm sorry." Sakura replied.
"Why are you sorry?" Sasuke asked a bit confused.
"Not me! That's what Naruto said!" Sakura corrected the boy.
"........." Sasuke stayed silent as he was surprised that Naruto would actually say that.
"Anyway, I saw your doctor and he told me that you just have to sign a few papers and take it slow for the next 2 weeks and then you can go back on missions with us." Sakura informed the boy with a smile.
"Us?" Sasuke asked.
"Of course, you know, Naruto, Kakashi-sensei, me and you." Sakura reminded the boy.
Sasuke turned his head towards the window as he stared at the sky. Many thoughts of his older brother saying he was nothing, and the words and what he wanted from Naruto kept repeating themselves in his head.
*END OF FLASHBACK*
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---- Naruto's Room ----
Sasuke looked away from the blonde's face, as he now understood the two simple words Naruto indirectly spoke to him.
"He's sorry... He's sorry because I asked him not to interfere when I caught up with him and Itachi ..." Sasuke now understood those words as he was shocked that even this loudmouth would apologize for something Sasuke knew that wasn't his fault.
"Sasuke ...?" Naruto murmured as he stirred in his bed, and got closer to the edge of it.
Sasuke's eyes focused on Naruto's as these ones slowly opened. Sasuke simply placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder and shook him a little to wake him up faster.
"Wake up dobe." Sasuke demanded, as his eyes locked with those bright blue eyes.
"What am I ... Where am I...?" Naruto asked as he slowly opened his eyes to meet, for a short moment, the soft eyes of Sasuke.
Sasuke immediately removed his hand from his rival's shoulder, as he returned to his neutral state and stood up. Naruto groggily sat up in his bed, as he rubbed his eyes to clear up his vision.
"You're in your room, in my house." Sasuke replied as he looked away.
"Oh ... Why are you here then?" Naruto asked with a menacing tone.
"You were mumbling so loud in your sleep that I came here to wake you up." Sasuke spoke half the truth.
"You didn't hear anything did you!?" Naruto shouted as his eyes widened, as the first thought that crossed his mind could be that Sasuke would know.
"Why would I be interested in what you mumble during your sleep?" Sasuke shot back, as Naruto immediately relaxed, now assured that his rival hadn't heard a thing.
"What time is it?" Naruto asked as if he was in a hurry.
"It's already dark outside." Sasuke replied.
"I slept all afternoon!?" Naruto yelled, surprised that he actually slept a few hours instead of only a few minutes.
"Hai, so since I like to have it quiet around here, stop shouting." Sasuke demanded with a cold glare.
"Oh, no problem, I'll be out of your way anyway." Naruto replied as he jumped out of bed and went straight towards the window, where his two backpacks laid under its frame.
Sasuke was surprised of the answer the blond gave him, since he would be the kind to always argue until one of them got tired of this argument. He carefully watched his rival, as this one pulled out a few things and simply threw them on the bed, as well as a small box, that contained bandages and ointment.
"What are you doing?" Sasuke asked a bit puzzled by how Naruto acted around him.
"Going out there to train and get some answers." Naruto quickly replied, as he grabbed a black hooded jacket to replace with the one he had on.
"You're not making any sense dobe. Get answers for what? And you're still low on chakra, I doubt Kakashi or ..." Sasuke complained as Naruto quickly turned around and locked eyes with the Uchiha.
"First of all, none of your damn business. I said I would live under the same damn roof as you but nothing obligates me to stay here day and night. Second of all, Kakashi and the others wouldn't give much of a damn about me, so if you want to tell them I left to train, go ahead. Besides, Jiraiya must be peeping at the women's bath again, so he won't have the time, and Kakashi must be reading that perverted book. So do us both a favor, and let me do what I want to and in exchange, I'll leave you all the quiet time you need." Naruto informed the boy with a certain anger in his voice that Sasuke found this strange behavior unlike the Naruto he knew and somewhat cared or respected.
"Fine. But don't come whining at me when you pass out or get wounded again while you're out there." Sasuke let out before he simply walked out of his rival's room, well aware that he shouldn't press the matter. For now.
Minutes passed as Naruto didn't move from his position since Sasuke had left his room, as Naruto simply dropped the few kunais he had in hand, on the wooden floor.
"I actually don't care what happens to me ... As long as I can be strong enough so that my dream doesn't come true." Naruto whispered to himself, as he left the kunais on the floor, and simply changed his current jackets by the new one.
Naruto grabbed his holster as he quickly headed out of his room. While he passed by the kitchen, he caught a small glimpse of Sasuke, before he exited the house and headed for the training grounds.
---- Kitchen ----
Sasuke leaned against the wall, as he looked out the window and watched Naruto's back, as this one retreated form the Uchiha grounds.
"That old man was actually right about Naruto ..." Sasuke thought, as he remembered his serious discussion he had with the legendary sennin the night before.
============================================================================ ======================
FLASHBACK
* Konoha Streets *
Sasuke closed the front door to Naruto's apartment, as his eyes scanned the streets to find the sennin, and try to get some more information out of him.
"Walk with me." Jiraiya said as he appeared behind Sasuke.
"Even better than Kakashi..." Sasuke thought as he decided to go along and play the sennin's game.
"How well do you know the brat?" Jiraiya asked.
"Well enough to know he's an idiot." Sasuke replied without any hesitation .
"Then you do not know him at all ..." Jiraiya trailed off as he continued to walk.
---- Deep in the Training Grounds ----
After a long 30 minutes of walking, the sennin had led the Uchiha boy towards the training grounds where Naruto had trained only hours ago. During their walk, none had spoken one word, as Sasuke seemed lost in his thoughts about what was going on, while the sennin carefully examined Sasuke's features to see how he reacted to Naruto's recent and strange outbursts.
Jiraiya continued to walk as he finally decided to get some rest, while he sat down on the ground, just under a tree, that Naruto had literally massacred in half. Sasuke on the other hand, stared at the ground, rocks and trees, as he didn't remember all the damage being there last time.
"What the hell happened here?" Sasuke asked a bit curious of the answer he might get.
"This is all Naruto's doing. This is where he trains when he wants to be alone and think of nothing else but train." Jiraiya answered as he continued to observe the boy who stood meters away from him, hands stuffed in his pockets.
"That can't be ... This looks like a war zone ..." Sasuke let out, surprised to hear his rival, the dobe, could inflict such damages.
"True, with his chakra alone, he wouldn't be able, but if he used the Kyubi's chakra... " Jiraiya told himself, and awaited for the next question of the dark haired shinobi.
"If you're not going to talk to me, then I'm leaving." Sasuke stated as he was ready to leave, but the sennin didn't give him a chance to.
"Why Naruto?" Jiraiya spoke out, well aware that this would catch the young shinobi's attention.
Sasuke froze in place, as the legendary sennin seemed to know what he was thinking, as he simply let his black bangs cover his dark eyes, and waited for what more this Jiraiya could tell him.
"Before I tell you any more information, I would want you to answer one simple question." Jiraiya started as he awaited for the response of Sasuke.
"Fine." Sasuke replied, a bit annoyed.
"Naruto. What is he to you?" Jiraiya asked with a serious look, as their eyes locked.
"Nani?" Sasuke quickly turned around and locked eyes with the sennin, his hands now, out of his pockets.
"Do you hate him? Or do you care about him? Is he only a rival? Or is he a friend? So tell me, what is Naruto to you. " Jiraiya asked, without blinking once.
"I don't know what you're talking about. I'm leaving." Sasuke stated, but Jiraiya knew that this ha made Sasuke uncomfortable.
"Running away won't make things better." Jiraiya stated which earned him a glare from the boy.
A long moment of silence passed, as the simply sentence Jiraiya spoke, seemed to hit some what of a nerve in the young Uchiha, as both remained frozen in their place, until Sasuke finally spoke with a low voice.
"A rival and a friend ..." Sasuke replied as he clenched his fists.
Jiraiya took this opportunity to stand up on his feet, and walk towards the boy, as he placed a hand on Sasuke's shoulder, to reassure the boy. Sasuke flinched by the touch, but didn't care to look up to the sennin.
"Uchiha Itachi is part of an organization called the Akatsuki. So far all we know is that organization is composed of 9 members. Their main goal is the search for more power." Jiraiya began his explanation, as Sasuke remained calm despite the main discussion revolving around his older brother.
"And what they want is what you told me earlier?" Sasuke asked but knew the answer.
"Hai. Although the Uzumaki Clan isn't that well known in Konoha, but Naruto carries a heavy burden alone, and that burden, is a unique skill and power that he holds within him. And for that reason, they want him to obtain that skill." Jiraiya finished his explanation.
"Similar to Uchiha or the Hyuga Clan is that it?" Sasuke wanted to confirm.
"Closer to the Hyuga family. The branch family to be more specific." Jiraiya continued as he thought of the many ways he could compare Naruto's hard life without revealing the fact that Naruto was the container of the Kyubi.
"Branch family?" Sasuke showed interest in the subject as he turned around to face the sennin.
"As you must know, in the Hyuga Clan, it exists the main family and then the branch family, which they live to only serve and protect the main family. Thus the Branch members, at the age of 3, go through a ceremony where a cursed mark is placed on their forehead." Jiraiya started.
"Then that explains about Neji's hatred towards the main family." Sasuke remembered how Sakura filled him in about the fight between Naruto and Neji, as well as the curse and Neji's father.
"Hai, the curse placed on those that are members of the Branch family, are under the mercy of the Main family. With one move, a member of the Main family could kill one of the Branch. Also, when they die, the secrets of the Byakugan also vanishes with the user." Jiraiya finished his explanation.
"Are you saying that this Uzumaki Clan resembles of the Hyuga Branch members fate?" Sasuke asked a bit surprised.
"Hai. It is a curse but also a great power. But the truth behind this curse, only Naruto can tell you it's true meaning if he decides to share it." Jiraiya informed his student.
"Then why is there only Naruto with that Clan name?" Sasuke asked, since a few things still didn't make any sense.
"The Uzumaki Clan no longer exists. Naruto is the last surviving member." Jiraiya stated, as Sasuke's eyes widened a little.
"How ..." Sasuke wanted to know, but Jiraiya thought ahead.
"The Clan was exterminated a while back, only a few members survived, but unfortunately, when the Kyubi attacked Konoha on October the 10th, they were all killed." Jiraiya spoke, well aware that he had to lie a little about Naruto's origins.
"Wasn't Naruto born on that day?" Sasuke asked a bit confused.
"Hai. His father ... His father died during the battle with the demon, while his mother ... Well his mother died only minutes after giving birth to him. So he was an orphan the moment he was born, and the responsibility of carrying the family's burden, fell on his shoulders. The poor kid has been alone for far too long ... And the Villagers threat him in the worse way, because of the day he was born, as well for taking the life of his parents..." Jiraiya spoke out with sadness as he walked away from Sasuke.
"..." Sasuke remained silent as he learned a lot more in that night about his rival.
"Sasuke ... What you heard about Naruto tonight, I don't want you repeating it to anyone else. Not even him. That boy has already too much to deal with, and I do not wish to add any more pain." Jiraiya spoke honestly as he turned back to meet those dark, confused and yet a bit sadden eyes.
"Why tell me this?" Sasuke asked, confused to why the sennin spoke to him about so much that concerned his rival.
"Because you'll be living under the same roof. I can't be there all the time to watch over him, and you're actually someone Naruto highly respects, although he probably doesn't show it that much..." Jiraiya trailed off.
"You saw how he reacted back there. There's nothing I can do." Sasuke snapped as he felt too many emotions at the same time.
"That's the other thing I wish to talk to you about." Jiraiya stated as he leaned against a nearby tree.
Sasuke raised an eyebrow as he didn't like to feel all these emotions, but many things continued to bother him. How Naruto had a hard life, but yet no one could have actually known since the idiot always laugh, smiles, seems always happy. Perhaps that now explained as well the outburst when Inari ( A/N : Their first C Ranked Mission. Where they fought against Haku and Zabuza. ) spat out that the blond shinobi didn't know what it was to have a hard life.
"You see, after Itachi did his thing with his Sharingan to you, him and Kisame finally left by force. Naruto was the first to reach you. Although he only knew Itachi was your older brother, and was unaware of what happened to your clan, the little brat was ready to pursue them. That brat never thought one moment about the fact he could simply get killed or even about his family secret. All he thought about was how you were injured and he felt it was his fault for not assisting you in the battle. He was ready to blindly go after them, without caring once about his own protection. His only thoughts were focused on taking revenge, for what he did to you." Jiraiya explained the aftermath from when Sasuke was unconscious.
"That idiot ..." Sasuke mumbled as he lowered his gaze to the ground.
"Even when I left Konoha with him to get the fifth Hokage, it was obvious that something still troubled him. Despite all that, he always smiled and appeared happy, but hid his true feelings. I guess that's how he managed to survive and continue with his life, until we came back ..." Jiraiya trailed off as he closed his eyes momentarily.
"Then why did he freak out when he saw me an hour ago?" Sasuke asked, curious to the answer.
"What do you have in common with Itachi?" Jiraiya asked which immediately earned him a deadly glare form the Uchiha.
"I am nothing like aniki!" Sasuke spat out as his Sharingan appeared within his eyes and his fist clenched.
"Take a good look in the water over there. And you'll see exactly what Naruto saw." Jiraiya pointed out to the river, only a few meters away from their current position.
Sasuke obeyed as he walked over to the river and kneeled down to look carefully at his reflection in the water. Jiraiya followed, as he stood next to the boy, as Sasuke's eyes widened upon the sight of his reflection.
"When anyone mentions Itachi, your hatred takes over and your Sharingan immediately appears without you even being aware of it. When you pinned down Naruto earlier, the first thing he saw was Sharingan eyes that glared at him with an intense hate and the will to kill." Jiraiya explained, as he placed a hand on Sasuke's shoulder, while his Sharingan faded.
"What he saw, wasn't me ... but Itachi ..." Sasuke murmured, still shocked by the truth behind the sennin's words.
"Listen kid, if you two really hated each other, I wouldn't have proposed to Tsunade to put both of you under the same roof. So far, no one can get close enough to him to know what's really wrong with him. The only person who might be able to help him, is you." Jiraiya informed the boy with a sincere voice.
"Me? Help dobe?" Sasuke thought as he placed a hand on his knee.
"I'm not asking you to become his best friend or anything, but if you do respect him. Then, do take care of him. Perhaps you'll both be able to heal old wounds with time, by helping each other." Jiraiya spoke out as he removed his hand and began to walk away.
"Wait!" Sasuke raised his voice as he quickly stood up and turned around to only see the back of the sennin.
"Yes?" Jiraiya asked, barely turning his head towards the boy.
"Have you forgotten that being a shinobi you need to discard your emotions?" Sasuke asked, still a bit angered.
"A shinobi is stronger when protecting someone or something, then simply fighting for revenge. I believe Naruto showed you that when you both fought against Gaara." Jiraiya reminded the boy.
"..." Sasuke stayed silent, as he knew the sennin was about to finish what he started.
"A shinobi without emotion, becomes a tool you discard when you are no longer need Sasuke. If a shinobi didn't have any emotions, then why do any of us continue to live? The truth is, during a mission, a shinobi shouldn't let his feelings interfere with his or her mission, but sometimes, those feelings and emotions, are exactly what saves us, and make us human." Jiraiya replied with a gentle tone and a smile.
With that said, Jiraiya left the training grounds, while Sasuke remained at his position, his head lowered to the ground, as though he's ashamed or something. Sasuke then raised his head so he could stare up at the evening sky.
"Chikushou ..." Sasuke cursed under the moonlight, as he knew deep down within himself, that the sennin spoke the truth.
END OF FLASHBACK
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*Sasuke's House*
---- Kitchen ----
"Me and him have more things in common than I would have thought ..." Sasuke let out, as he no longer had his rival in sight.
Knock knock
Sasuke turned his head around, as this was unusual for someone to actually knock on his door. He let out a sigh as he walked towards the front door and slowly opened it.
"If you're here to talk again, I don't need it." Sasuke coldly said to the pink haired girl.
"Sasuke-kun, I just wanted to make sure Naruto wasn't getting on your nerves or anything." Sakura spoke out as she crossed her fingers.
"You annoy me more than him. Now leave." Sasuke demanded with his cold tone.
"But Sasuke-kun, you both have been acting strange ever since he came back from god knows where and you since you woke up and left the hospital." Sakura reminded her long time crush.
"Just leave us both alone." Sasuke replied as he shut the door right in her face and stepped back into his kitchen.
============================================================================ ======================
*Outside Sasuke's House*
---- The Front Door ----
"Sasuke usually isn't this cold towards me ... Naruto must have done something." Sakura told herself as she started to walk away. "HELL YEAH! NARUTO'S THE PROBLEM NOT MY SASUKE!" Inner Sakura shouted as she waved her fists around.
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*Inside Sasuke's House*
---- Kitchen ----
Sasuke walked towards his kitchen table, while he let out a sigh. Partly relieved he finally got rid of Sakura sooner than he thought possible. He then turned his head slightly and stared at Naruto's door room.
"Sasuke. I'm sure Naruto trusts and respects you. But know this. Naruto doesn't give that trust or respect to just anyone." Sasuke remembered Jiraiya telling him that last night.
"That idiot ..." Sasuke mumbled before he started to walk towards his own room.
---- Sasuke's Room ----
Sasuke opened the door to his room, as he headed straight for his nightstand. He kneeled down to the floor, one knee against the ground, while he reached in and grabbed a few kunais.
As he stood up, his eyes came across that picture they took as Team 7. Without any second thought, with his free hand, he grabbed the frame which held the picture and carefully studied it.
"I have already lost everything important to me once ... I never want to see an important friend die in front of me again." Sasuke remembered all too well those words he spoke to Naruto, during their battle against the half transformed Gaara.
Sasuke placed the frame back on the nightstand, as he began to walk away, until he reached the doorframe.
"Aniki ... this time, I won't let you take away the last thing that's important to me ..." Sasuke spoke out to the room as he headed out to find Naruto.
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*Training Grounds*
Naruto walked up to the place where he was yesterday to finally notice the true damages he inflicted upon the land and trees.
"I have to find a way to ask that stupid fox why he hasn't been healing my hand ..." Naruto thought when he remembered how he first met the fox in the first place.
============================================================================ ======================
FLASHBACK
Jiraiya and Naruto walked down in a clear path through the forest, as Jiraiya seemed mostly serious while Naruto had still understood why his current sensei wanted him to do all the things he wanted before the next step in training.
"Hey? Is a frog actually going to come out by doing things like this?" Naruto asked still confused.
"Hai. That's for sure." Jiraiya replied as they continued to walk.
"Really?" Naurto asked, a bit suspicious of the sennin's true motivations.
"Is there nothing you will regret anymore?" Jiraiya asked as he stopped walking.
"Huh?" Naruto asked as the sennin slightly turned around to look down at Naruto.
"Is there?" Jiraiya asked as he faced his only student.
"What are you talking ..." Naruto started all confused when he felt a strong pain in his stomach.
Naruto's eyes widened, as the last thing he remembered was the sennin that punched him hard enough, so that the by would fall unconscious. Jiraiya simply looked down to his unconscious students, as a few thoughts crossed his mind at that moment.
"To pull out and use a large amount of chakra ... It sure is hard just to control it. Also, his body is too small to accept Kyubi's chakra." Jiraiya thought as he kneeled down to his student. "I suppose his body normally refuses the Kyubi's chakra to avoid the extra burden. If the key to pull out Kyubi's chakra is to risk his life ...Then I need to have him learn how to use the key with his body. Don't hold a grudge ... Fourth Hokage ..." Jiraiya finished as he picked up the boy and placed him over his shoulder and walked to their new destination.
---- 15 Minutes Later ----
Jiraiya simply threw Naruto's body, face first, on the ground, as he waited for the boy to wake up. After a few more minutes, Naruto finally woke up, as he lifted his body off the ground and kneeled on the ground. His eyes showed confusion as he looked around.
"Huh? Where is this place?" Naruto asked as his eyes scanned his surroundings.
"Stand up!" Jiraiya ordered his student, as he stood before the boy.
"What?" Naruto asked still confused as he stood up before his teacher.
"Your training is to end now." Jiraiya informed him with a serious tone.
"You haven't done anything yet!" Naruto shouted as he pointed his fist towards the sennin.
"Naruto! Go die form now." The sennin ordered as Naruto relaxed.
"Die?" Naruto repeated the word.
Try pulling out the big chakra from the fear of the death. And experience it with your body and get the trick. If you don't want to die, do something by yourself. OK?" Jiraiya informed the boy who seemed confused.
Narutow as about to say something, when the sennin placed a single finger on the boy's forehead and before Naruto could even registered what just happened, he was sent flying backwards through the bushed, until there was nothing more under him but deep darkness.
Naruto screamed as he noticed he was falling into a bottomless pit, while the sennin walked up to the edge and looked down to his falling student.
"Show me whether the power given to you is really for you." Jiraiya let out as he could only observe and wait for the result.
---- In The Pit ----
Naruto's body turned so that he could face the danger, as many thoughts crossed his mind.
"If I don't grab it ... I'll die!" Naruto told himself, as he brought his hands together and gathered chakra to his feet and hands. "Now!" Naurto yelled out as he grabbed one of the spikes from the wall.
---- From Above ----
Jiraiya saw the attempt on Naruto's part as he knew that is wouldn't work.
It's useless. The cliff is slippery because of the water from the water fall. Also, falling down at that speed ... It's impossible to stick to the rocks with your chakra control. Naruto. Only one thing is left to depend on. Kyubi's chakra. Open the key ... This time, you're the one commanding it." Jiraiya smiled in part as he continued to observe.
---- Down In The Pit ----
Naruto failed to stick to the spikes on the outer walls, as he continued to plunge to his certain death, unless he could finally tap within that powerful chakra.
"If it's like this ...Like this ... I'll really die!" Naruto continued to repeat that sentence, as he felt many heartbeats within his own body.
---- Within Naruto ----
Naruto found himself in some place dark, as he slowly stood up and walked towards the endless corridors. A certain growl picked up his curiosity as he headed for a big room.
Within minutes, he found himself before a great entrance with bars, along with a piece of paper, well placed over the lock. The boy looked up and finally understood what it meants.
"This is ..." Naruto couldn't finish as his eyes focused on that piece of paper.
Seconds later, on the other side of the bars, an immense amount of chakra could be felt, as two glowing red eyes, and an enormous fox grin like appeared before Naruto.
"It's huge ... What is it?" Naruto asked within his mind.
"Hey kid ... Come a bit closer." The form demanded as it glared down to the boy.
Naruto not knowing what was actually going on, simply steped forward as he was asked, to only be greeted with 3 sharp claws that came through the steel bars. Naruto jumped back by fear, as he sat down on his ass, afraid of this creature.
"I want to eat you up, but this gate doesn't open. It's because of this annoying seal." The figure spoke out as he narrowed his eyes.
"You are ... Kyubi ... I see. The red chakra is his." Naruto finally understood as he stood back up and stared at Kyubi through the bars.
"You finally have come down here to see me ... What brought you here?" The fox asked, a bit curious of the answer he would get.
"Hey, stupid fox! Since I'm letting you stay in my body ... Lend me your chakra as rent." Naruto took on his serious look as he waited for the fox's answer.
The fox simply laughed, at what this small human had just demanded out of one of the greatest demons in the world.
"You're saying if you die, I'll die too in the end. You got some guts to threaten me." Kyubi spoke out with a grin, as red chakra came form under the cage and wrapped itself around Naruto, which restrained him from any movements.
"Alright. I'll give you some as a reward for you coming down here." Kyubi spoke while he laughed, and Naruto screamed out of fear.
---- In The Pit ----
Naruto shot open his eyes as he continued to fall down until he felt this power within his body and bit the tip of his finger to release his blood.
"This feeling!" Naruto remembered this feeling all too well as he performed the correct seals to summon. "Kuchiyose-no-jutsu!" Naruto yelled out as he placed his hand before him.
Blue chakra came out of his hand at first, as soon the red chakra appeared as well to complete the summoning jutsu. Smoke appear, as hands came out of the smoke and braced itself against each side of the wall. The smoke vanished to reveal a giant frog as Naruto landed on it's head.
END OF FLASHBACK
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*Training Grounds*
Naruto grinned, before he brought his hands together to perform his favorite jutsu.
"Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" Naruto yelled out as 2 clones appeared next to him.
The two clones took a few steps ahead as they waited for Naruto's orders, while this one simply patted his wounded hand.
"Listen up. We'll be fighting against each other for a few minutes and after that, I want you two to punch me as hard as you can towards that direction." Naruto informed them as he pointed to the bushes behind him, near the river.
"Hai!" Both clones yelled out, as the training began.
============================================================================ ======================
*Sasuke's House*
A certain Jounin slowly walked towards the front door, as he wanted to check up on both his students, until his eyes caught a glimpse of something white and red.
"Why are you here ... Kakashi?" Jiraiya asked, his arms crossed, while he leaned against a tree.
"Naruto wasn't at his best this afternoon, so I came here to check up on him." Kakashi answered.
"The boys aren't here." Jiraiya informed the Jounin.
"Where are they then?" Kakashi asked as he turned around to face the sennin.
"My guess is Naruto's back on his private part of the training ground, and I hope Sasuke isn't too far away from him." Jiraiya informed him with a serious look.
"Aren't you suppose to keep on eye on him?" The Jounin shot back a bit angered of how the sennin neglected Naruto.
"I'm having some inside help ..." Jiraiya mumbled as he pushed himself off the tree and got closer to the Jounin. "You should come. The Hokage wants to have a word with you about your last mission today." Jiraiya informed the Jounin with a serious look.
"Naruhodo." Kakashi let out as he stepped away from the front door to join the sennin.
Jiraiya placed his hands together, as him and Kakashi vanished in a cloud of thick smoke, on their way to Hokage's office.
============================================================================ ======================
*Training Grounds*
Sasuke quickly found his way through the training grounds, since last night, Jiraiya had brought him there to talk.
"A place where he only trains to get his mind off things... This has to be the place ..." Sasuke thought as he continued to leap from branch to branch.
After a few more minutes, Sasuke landed on the nearest branch, as he noticed 3 visible Naruto's that fought on the ground. Sasuke leaned forward and observed, while he made sure to conceal his chakra from Naruto.
---- Ground Level ----
Naruto observed his clones carefully, while he waited for them to make their next move. Both clones reached within their holster and pulled out a kunai, while our blond shinobi simply grinned.
"Is that the best you can do?" Naruto asked his two clones.
Both clones lost their smiles as they charged forth and threw their kunais directly at the original Naruto. Naruto quickly pulled out two kunais, one in each hand, as he deflected both attacks easily.
"Why is this so boring ..." Naruto thought, as though he was disappointed by his clone's performance.
Naruto's eyes widened when he noticed both clones vanished form his sight. He carefully scanned the area around him, well aware that his clones would strike him form behind, since the waterfall was in front of him and not behind.
"Guess the time has come for us to have a little talk ... Kyubi ..." Naruto let out in a low voice as he turned around to meet the oncoming attack by his two clones.
---- In The Trees ----
"Why isn't he trying to dodge that?" Sasuke asked himself, as he knew, even without his Sharingan, even Naruto could dodge such a simple attack.
---- Ground Level ----
Naruto turned around, as his two clones reappeared, ready to punch the light out of Naruto, as both their fists connected with Naruto's stomach. Naruto's eyes widened at first from the strength of the attack, but after all, the Kage Bunshin was a real replica of himself.
Naruto tumbled backwards, as his feet never touched the ground again, as he was sent flying through the bushes with an immense force. The clones stared at the original that was no longer in sight, as they exchanged looks, before they vanished in a cloud of smoke.
---- In The Trees ----
Sasuke's eyes widened as Naruto vanished form his sight. Without any second thoughts, he jumped down from the tree as he quickly ran through the bushes in hopes to catch a glimpse of Naruto's body.
---- Ground Level, Through The Bushes ----
Sasuke ran through the bushes, as he could sense Naruto's chakra was very near, until something strange happened. Naruto's chakra seemed to be in conflict and seemed to be going no longer forward but downwards.
"What is happening?" Sasuke asked himself as he accelerated his speed.
After a few seconds, Sasuke suddenly froze in place, as he found himself on the edge of the cliff, and meters away from his position, a falling down Naruto could be seen.
"NARUTO!" Sasuke shouted as he quickly analyzed the situation to maybe save the blond from a certain death.
Sasuke quickly noticed how the mist from the waterfall kept the rocks all slippery, so using chakra to grip it wouldn't work. To this point, Sasuke could only watch and hope Naruto could get out of this.
---- Downfall In The Pit ----
Naruto thought he heard his name being shouted but soon discarded the thought, as he only waited to fall deeper into the abyss, in hopes that he would soon meet Kyubi. Naruto stared at the bright sky, as he closed his eyes and he brought his hand over his heart and clenched the fabric of it.
"This hurts more than the first time ..." Naruto mumbled as he could feel Kyubi's presence.
============================================================================ ======================
*Inside Naruto*
Naruto found himself face down on the watery like floor, while he slowly raised his body off the ground. While he stood up, he carefully looked around, remembering exactly which corridor to take in order to get to Kyubi's cage.
"If I remember correctly, I just have to listen to his growls ..." Naruto remembered how he first found out about Kyubi's emplacement.
Naruto walked through the dark corridors, until he finally found himself, for the second time in his life, in front of the kitsune's cage. The blond boy stared at what was inside, as he crossed his arms and made sure he would be at a safe distance from being killed by the fox.
"Are you trying to kill yourself again?" Kyubi spoke with a fierce voice, as his glowing red eyes were the first to show themselves to the blond shinobi.
"This was the only way I found to get back in here." Naruto honestly answered as his eyes never left those of the kitsune's.
"Why have you come this time then?" Kyubi asked as he showed his sharp teeth.
"Mind explaining this?" Naruto asked, as he uncrossed his arms, and placed forth his right arm.
Naruto slowly unwrapped the bandages around his hand and wrist, as he showed all the cuts and burns on it.
"I have nothing to do with that." Kyubi shot back.
"Wounds like these you're suppose to heal." Naruto commented, which earned him a close encounter with three sharp and deadly claws.
"You can blame yourself stupid brat." Kyubi hissed as he withdrew his claws from the bars.
"Then why don't you explain it to me then? You stupid fox!" Naruto replied with a glare.
"For the past 2 weeks or so, you've been tapping within my chakra too much to my liking. I accepted when that Kabuto guy nearly destroyed your body to lend you some, but since you've returned to this pathetic Village, you have used my chakra for your own personal joy. And as I recall, I'm not obligated to obey the orders of a filthy human, even less a stupid brat." Kyubi mentioned with a creepy growl.
"I have to get strong! And if that means to train like this than so be it! But until you heal my hand, I'm not doing anything." Naruto threatened the fox, but was dead serious about it.
"Then you will die." The fox commented as he turned his back to the blond shinobi.
"I don't care ... It's not like anyone's going to miss me anyway. I ... I just want to make sure that it doesn't come true ..." Naruto mumbled as he lowered his head.
Upon those words, Kyubi stopped and slowly turned his head to look down at this pathetic human. Time passed as Kyubi was becoming more curious than ever about this brat.
"Brat. Why do you continue on this path? Why do you stay in a Village where you are hated for being my container?" Kyubi asked out of curiosity. After all, during his 13 years of imprisonment so far, he had only talked with this boy once, and no one else.
"Because ... Sasuke lost almost everything once ... I don't want to see him suffer like that again. Especially because of me. Because I didn't have the courage, nor the strength or power ... I'm just a useless and hated human ..." Naruto replied with sadness and pain in his voice, which caught the Kyubi's attention.
"Foolish boy ..." Kyubi let out, and immediately Naruto lifted his head to see the Kyubi now faced him.
"Laugh at me all you want! I don't care what you or all the rest of the world think! As long as I can! I will protect the few people that I respect and trust!" Naruto shouted as he clenched his fists and glared at the fox with anger, while tears ran down his cheeks.
"Why sacrifice yourself when all they do is ignore you?" Kyubi asked again by simple curiosity.
"Because their worth it. Iruka-sensei, Sakura-chan ... Sasuke the most... They all treat me in their own way, but we have our good times ..." Naruto began to explain with much passion put into his words.
"The Uchiha?" Kyubi remembered the Clan all too well. "What is that other human worth to you?" Kyubi asked, as this was getting actually interesting.
"Why would the great stupid fox be interesting in that?" Naruto shot back.
"Answer." Kyubi demanded the young shinobi.
"Well, it's not like you can talk to any one else about it ... To me ... He's my friend ... My only friend ..." Naruto mumbled as he lowered his head and evaded those deadly red eyes of the fox.
"Interesting ..." Kyubi thought as he continued to observe this boy.
"But, I doubt he feels the same way ..." Naruto confessed and sighed.
"For a stupid human, you prove to be somewhat ... Interesting. Perhaps you should live a while longer, to entertain me ..." Kyubi stated and grinned.
"What are you grinning at?" Naruto demanded and answer as he locked eyes with the ferocious fox.
"Because you never cease to amaze me with your stupidity, I will heal your arm, but you'll be put into a deep sleep for 24 hours." Kyubi stated.
"NANI!? WHAT FOR?" Naruto demanded his answer.
Kyubi grinned as his red chakra slid under the cage and wrapped itself around Naruto. Naruto began to panic, since that evil grin wasn't too good to see, especially when it's from a demon.
"You will get the rest you need to regain your own chakra. I advise you to not tap into my own chakra for a long or you will suffer the consequences." The fox threatened the boy.
Before Naruto could say anything, the red chakra engulfed him completely, as he couldn't move and slowly, he fell asleep. Kyubi observed the red ball of chakra that surrounded his host, as he whispered something, that only he was aware of.
"Show me your true strength. Uzumaki Naruto." Kyubi let out as he walked away from the metals bars and deeper within his cage, away from the ball of chakra, and into the darkness.
============================================================================ ======================
*The Cliff*
From above, Sasuke continued watch as he had trouble to even see Naruto that continued to fall, as though he wanted this to happen, since the blond did nothing to actually try to save himself.
"Come on Naruto ..." Sasuke thought as he activated his Sharingan to at least trace his chakra.
Suddenly, a loud sound was heard, as smoke appeared underneath Naruto's body. The next thing Sasuke knew, Narruto seemed to have landed on something big, red and had clothes on.
---- Down In The Pit ----
"What the hell is going on!?" Gamabunta demanded as his four paws were hooked tightly against the spiked wet walls of the pit.
After his conversation with the Kyubi, Naruto had quickly summoned Gamabunta, well aware that he was the reason he got out of there alive the first time. Naruto sat on top of the frog's head, well aware that this one wouldn't be pleased to be in this situation again.
"Sorry boss, but I needed to have a talk with a stupid fox." Naruto explained, as Gamabunta tried to glare at the boy.
"How dare you summon me in this place again!? Did Jiraiya put you up to this again!?" Gamabunta wanted and answer now.
"Just get us out of this pit, and I'll explain when we'll be on the land." Naruto explained as he gathered the few of his chakra left to stick onto the frog's back.
"He's not as annoying and loud as usual ... Something must have happened. Jiraiya will have some explaining to do when I find him ..." Gamabunta told himself, as it was too obvious that something was odd about his subordinate.
---- On The cliff ----
Sasuke's eyes widened as an orange blur came from deep within the pit and exited it fast enough, that the dark haired boy, braced himself from all the wind that swirled around him.
"What the hell was that!?" Sasuke asked himself as he lowered his arms and looked into the sky.
The dark orange blur, was high up in the sky, when it finally landed near the training grounds. Sasuke lost no time as he headed straight for that direction.
---- Landing Site ----
Gamabunta took his original position, while Naruto jumped off the boss's head and onto the ground to face the giant frog.
"Thanks for the save boss." Naruto thanked him with his false smile.
"Naruto! Why do you continue to call me in such situations?" Gamabunta asked as he spat out some smoke from his mouth.
"I needed and answer from that stupid fox about my hand. So I ended up going down there again. So, sorry about summoning you there again." Naruto apologized as he scratched the back of his head.
"I'll have to talk to him ..." Gamabunta thought as he decided to play the game until he could find that pervert.
"Naruto!" A familiar voice shouted his name.
"Huh?" Naruto turned back to where the sound came from.
"It seems someone has come for him..." Gamabunta thought as he decided to have Naruto deliver a message that only Jiraiya could comprehend. "Naruto! Tell Jiraiya that I need to speak to him as soon as possible. You got that!?" The frog wanted to be sure Naruto would do so.
"Sure!" Naruto replied.
Gamabunta disappeared in a cloud of smoke and at that precise moment, Sasuke appeared, not too far from Naruto. Naruto turned around to notice Sasuke was actually a few meters away from him.
"Sasuke? What are you doing here?" Naruto asked, a bit confused.
"I could ask you the same question. You're the one that fell down into a pit." Sasuke let out.
"Whatever. At least I finally got my answer." Naruto replied as he brought his right arm in front of him.
"Answer? Answer to what?" Sasuke asked.
"To this." Naruto replied as he took off his jacket and discarded it on the dirty ground.
Naruto slowly unwrapped the bandages to reveal his skin was slowly healing, as Sasuke simply stared, amazed at his speed of healing. After a few seconds, his hand was back as new, but he suddenly felt a small pain in his stomach. Instinctively, he grabbed his stomach, and leaned a little forward, while Sasuke remained alert.
"What the hell's going on?" Naruto asked within his mind.
"I healed as promised, but now you must rest to regain your own chakra." Kyubi spoke within the boy's mind, accompanied by a laughter.
"Baka Kitsune ..." Naruto let out before he closed his eyes and let darkness consume him.
"What's wrong Narut ..." Sasuke couldn't even finish when he noticed Naruto's body fall forward.
With his quick reflexes, Sasuke rushed forward as he grabbed the blond shinobi within his arms. Naruto's head resting on Sasuke's shoulder, while the dark haired boy had his arms tightly wrapped the boy's waist.
"Naruto!" Sasuke yelled out, as he dragged his rival's body to the nearest tree.
Sasuke gently laid Naruto against the tree, as he kneeled before the unconscious boy. Without any second thought, Sasuke brushed those golden locks out of those sleeping eyes, as he was reassured that his rival was only asleep.
"You idiot! You almost got yourself killed!" Sasuke shouted, as he punched the ground next to Naruto's side.
Sasuke lowered his head near the ground, his bangs covering his dark onyx eyes, until something wet fell on the ground. Sasuke stared at the ground, as he slowly raised his head, eyes widened, by what was happening. Sasuke brought his hand near his eyes, as his fingers touched something warm, and liquid like.
"This ... This hasn't happened since ... Why am I ..." Sasuke mumbled as he couldn't believe he actually had tears in his eyes.
============================================================================ ======================
*Tsunade's Office*
Jiraiya and Kakashi appeared in Tsunade's office, as she stood, a meter away from them, as though she was waiting for their arrival.
"What took you so long?" Tsunade asked, arms crossed, and seemed slightly pissed.
"I had to find him first you know." Jiraiya sarcastically said.
"Why did you want to see us anyway?" Kakashi asked, curious to what couldn't wait.
"I just received information from an Anbu team I sent in the Mist Country." Tsunade started.
"What reasons?" Kakashi asked.
"Since Itachi's last visit here, I had several Anbu teams track him and this Kisame down. I just received word that both have been spotted in that Country. I'm sending an Anbu team there, and would ask if you could join them." Tsunade explained as she waited for the Jounin's answer.
"I still have Team 7 to train." Kakashi stated.
"I currently don't have many missions and I can always assign them with either Asuma, Gai or Kurenai's team if needed." Tsunade reassured the Jounin.
"If you don't mind Tsunade, I would like to join the team as well." Jiraiya asked.
"Jiraiya, I need you to keep a close eye on our boy ..." Tsunade objected to his proposal, as the Jounin closely observed.
"I want to deal with Itachi myself. I have a few questions to ask him anyway. As for the well being of our boy, Sasuke's currently watching over him, as for an adult to check up on them, you could always ask that Umino Iruka guy since Naruto seemed fond of him." Jiraiya proposed to reassure both of them.
"I understand your reasons Jiraiya, but I can't just send anyone on this mission. Don't forget this is a highly ranked one." Tsunade reminded the sennin.
"If Jiraiya decides to go with the team I suppose I could watch over both boys since they are both in my team." Kakashi spoke out as Tsunade turned her attention back to the Jounin.
"Kakashi, I know you want to check up mostly on Naurto, but you'Ve dealt with Itachi before, and we need that experience to help us. But when you come back, I'll be sure to leave you full access and you'll be informed of everything concerning Naruto." Tsunade offered the Jounin, since she knew he would accept, if he could get to know his student better.
"Tsunade. I never ask anything from you. So I'm asking you to send me with them. IF we do encounter Itachi, Kakashi's going to need all the back up he needs." Jiraiya demanded once again with a serious voice.
"I agree. To have one of the three legendary sennins with the Anbu team and myself would even the odds better." Kakashi commented as he supported the sennin.
"Very well. I'll put Iruka in charge of watching over our two boys while both of you are gone. But if things get too serious, I want both of you back here. We don't need more bodies to burry ..." Tsunade commented with a sad voice, as she remembered the burial of the Third Hokage.
"We will. Do you have the details of this mission?" Kakashi asked.
"Hai." Tsunade replied as she walked towards her desk and grabbed two scrolls.
"When do we leave?" Jiraiya asked.
"The sooner the better." Tsunade responded as she threw them a scroll each with the mission details.
"You should just say now you know?" Jiraiya replied with an irritated voice.
"And miss your reaction?" Tsunade replied and then smirked.
"Has the Anbu team been selected?" Kakashi asked, as he placed the scroll in one of his pockets.
"Hai. They're waiting at Konoha's Gates. They expect you to be there in half an hour at most. I'll take care to inform Iruka-sensei of the situation, but for both boy's sake, I'll just tell them you were needed for something important. We don't need Sasuke running off after his older brother ..." Tsunade trailed off as she remembered what she read in the reports of Gai and Jiraiya.
"Then we leave it in your hands." Jiraiya said as he waited for the Jounin to be ready to leave.
"Take care of them ..." Kakashi said before he vanished in a cloud of smoke, and left only Tsunade and Jiraiya present in the room.
"He really cares about both of them ..." Tsunade let out, surprised by Kakashi's concern for both boys.
"You had doubts?" Jiraiya asked.
"Just what I heard from Naruto." Tsunade half explained.
"Well, I'll be off. I'll be back soon." Jiraiya said with a nice pose as he disappeared in a cloud of smoke as well.
"Hopefully I'll be able to eliminate at least one threat to Konoha ..." Tsunade thought as she returned to her desk and finish the night.
============================================================================ ======================
*Somewhere ...*
Kisame walked in the forest, alone, until another figure appeared in front of him, dressed in a black mantle, and a Chinese like hat.
"Took you long enough ... Itachi-san." Kisame smirked
"Have the Leaf made a move yet?" Itachi demanded an answer.
"Hai. Seems that an Anbu team will be after us as well as the Sharingan Kakashi. But what intrigued me mostly, is the fact that the legendary sennin Jiraiya is joining in as well." Kisame informed the Uchiha.
"Good. Now we move to the second step ... Itachi let out as he started to walk down the path.
"This will be interesting to see ..." Kisame commented as he caught up with Itachi.
TBC ...
============================================================================ ======================
Chapter finally done! I had this mini writer's block on what this chapter would consist of, since some wanted some stuff to happen between Sasuke and Naruto, but I don't like rushing into things so the characters don't end up being so OCC. But stuff will get more interesting that's for sure,
35 Reviews! Me so happy! Keep up those reviews people and this will help me a lot more than you think! By the way, this chapter was 10, 500 + words, so I worked really really hard to write this, so hope you appreciate! Let me rephrase, you BETTER appreciate it!!! Lol.
With that aside, I didn't think this chapter would end up like this but at the last minute, I had major inspiration and then I like the new twist I added to it! Hope you enjoy and Please REVIEW!
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REVIEWS
Ookami Kage : I'm so happy to know you loved it! And I can't wait for you to update your stories!
Foamy and Foolproof : I know I'm in the depressed side of Naruto but things will get better, although I did almost kill him, but was the only logical way Naruto would know to contact the Kyubi, although it was almost suicidal...
Gina Reed : Gomen! I tried to update sooner but I was a bit blocked and I had like 4 stories due for like last week-end but only came out like two days ago, so I decided to work on this one all Friday long! Hope you enjoyed it!
Nikkler : Nikkler-san! I gave you the answer to why Kyubi wasn't healing Naruto's wound! Although it was strange, but in my mind, Naruto could only think of that way to communicate with him, besides he could summon Gamabeta if wanted to save his cute little ass again. Hope you enjoyed this chapter too! And update your stories!
Monkan : Monkan-san! I so can't wait for an update on my favorite story from you. The one called ' What You Left Me ' I so love it, and so happy to have someone like you to review a story from me!
Dark Mimiru-chan : Gomen! I didn't notice that mistake, but thanks for telling me, when I get some free time, I'll try to correct those mistakes. Thanks for reviewing!
Silverknight7 : Indeed, poor Naruto, but anyone would be depressed if they went through what our poor kitsune has.
Dearest : Well I started some small fluff but gotta start there before anything else gets serious ne? I'm also glad to know you enjoy this fic since this is one that takes a great amount of time to write just like my other popular fic ' A NEW PATH '.
BlueAngelFire :Why Naruto's hasn't been able to heal? That question was answered in this chapter. Also, I update ' RETURN TO ME ' And I think it's getting better although it didn't turn out like I wanted it, but as long as people review and like it I'll continue to write for you sweet people!
Life's Garnet : I'm glad you enjoy the fic, cuz it really helps me to continue to write although I have 7 on going stories to update lol. But that's good for you people ne?
Insanechildfanfic : Poor Naruto-kun indeed. But things will get better but I do have lots of twists planned for this story!
Someone : I'm glad you enjoy this fic, and I'm not planning anything sappy at all, things will develop on their own but somehow fast since these are LONG chapters, always stick around the 7000 + words so far. Hope you enjoyed this chapter too.
Naito Kiseki : I'm glad you enjoy it. What helps me even more is the fact you support the way I don't rush into things between our cute to be couple. Also, I also had in mind why Naruto never got depressed or anything, so I took up yet another challenge. Most of my fics are based on that reason alone. Plus you found out what that conversation was. Hope to hear from you soon.
Iceheart 19 : Well if I ever need a beta reader I'll let you know, but so far I got better with comments from reviewers and I'm getting good I think, just some stupid mistakes here and there, and when I'm rushed into releasing chapters. But thanks anyway!
:D : I can surprise people with my endings, but glad you enjoyed it!
Yasai-Chan : I'm very happy to know you enjoy the fic, and I'm very aware I do throw in some stuff, but it comes to explain many others from the past as well as those to come. Hope this chapter answered some of your questions and was a good chapter ne?
Falcon Rider : I update as I can! Having 7 stories to update weekly is hard and the fact that I was called to work last week-end made me update later. Hope you enjoyed this chapter as well!
Eyes0nme19 : Thanks for the compliment hope you enjoyed this chapter!
YukaYuka : Yep I'm French, but I find English way better because of those great shows on tv. Those French series over here really suck. Anyway, I know it can take me up to 3 days to write a chapter of this story because I have many ideas but then I don't want to rush into things.
Arbil : Soon he won't keep everything bottled up inside of him. You just wait and see!
Duochang97 : Glad you appreciate the long chapters! Because they demand a lot and then I gotta think of when to cut them lol. Hope you continue to review and enjoy the fic.
Watermelon Gal : Our cute kit will be back soon, so no worries, he just needs some attention and all to get him out of that darkness. But you know, Sasuke will work his way and try to make things better in his own way ...
Shea89 : Thanks for reviewing!
Lydia*Blessing : If you like the Gaara x Naruto pairing, check out my other story called ' A NEW PATH '.
C.M Aeris Queen of Insanity : Deep down Naruto cares about his teamate since Sasuke didn't totally ignore him, but our little kitsune is in depression and hopefully Sasuke can help him heal.
Angie-Chan : Sorry for the character change but it's necessary for my story to continue but no worries, he should soon feel like his old self.
Kuroi Kitsune : Indeed, I live in Quebec and You don't' see too many English speaking people except in maybe Montreal and Old Quebec City. Also nice to know someone else that lives in Canada. Now for the story, I'm really glad you enjoy it, and very glad you took time to review, I'll update as I can, but after this one is posted, I'm working on the last story to update this week my TWIST OF FATE, whish is in a crucial part at the moment ... Anyway, continue to review I highly appreciate it!
Shadow Eclipse : It's hard to describe clothing properly and I'm really happy you like this fic so far and hopefully you'll love the rest to come.
Yuka Sakura : French is hard! I so hate, because every word means many things, and then the grammar and so on. It's hell! I appreciate when people point out my errors, helps me improve so many more will now review after reading my fic.
Tidus2529 : As you might know, I can't just go like one chapter to the next they sleep together and do it. I take my time to develop the things but the fluff has started and things will get more interesting, so please be a bit more patient.
Nekomoongirl : Many either like the current Naruto or simply don't. For those like you who don't, well honestly, if you were Naruto, wouldn't you be depressed after all this time? I sure would be since my life is similar to that. Anyway, things will get back to normal soon enough, have some patience.
Nicki-gurl : No problem, I'm happy you enjoy my chapters and stories. Hopefully I won't disappoint any of you!
Rubymoon17 : Thanks for the review. For a moment I thought you abandoned me since I haven't seen you review A NEW PATH yet and that one is updated. Glad to have you back! Hope this chapter was to your liking.
Ash of Mine : I totally agree, I would have snapped a long time ago you know? I know there's some angst and all, but things will get better, and there's some fluff here and there, one-sided for the moment, but it shows Sasuke cares and Naruto would freak out in his current condition if he found out ne? Hope that helps!
Uchiha- Keiki : I update as I can, and it's really hard to update weekly all 7 fics, so I do my best! But the fic with most reviews is the first that I try to update.
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Next Chapter :
Sasuke takes care of Naruto, as the two share a special moment, while Jiraiya and Kakashi finally catch up to Kisame and Itachi. How will things turn out???
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Read and REVIEW everyone
Comments and ideas are always appreciated you know??
Also, check out some of my other works if you didn't already!
Till next time!
Ookima
