Rivals or Lovers?
Chapter 6 : Sharingan
Synopsis : While Naruto sleeps, Sasuke learns a little more about his rival, while Iruka comes over to check up on the boys. Meanwhile, Jiraiya, Kakashi and the Anbus set out to intercept Uchiha Itachi, along with his accomplice, Kisame in a nearby country.
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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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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
None for this chapter.
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JAPANESE WORDS
- Baka = Idiot -
- Arigatou = Thank You -
- Iie = No -
- Ohayo = Good Morning -
- Urusai = Shut Up -
- Aniki = Brother -
- Kitsune = Fox -
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--- RECAP ---
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.
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Konoha's Gates
15 minutes have passed since their meeting with the fifth Hokage, as Jiraiya and the 6 members of the Anbu, waited for the copy ninja Kakashi to join them.
"Jiraiya-sama, not that we underestimate your strength, but Uchiha Itachi was able to defeat Hatake Kakashi, and was the one to exterminate his own clan ..." The Anbu with the cat mask spoke out with worry.
"Last time, Kakashi was caught off guard, this time, we'll have the upper hand, as long as you listen carefully to our advice." Jiraiya specified as he looked towards the group of 6.
"You'll be given more specific details on the way to meet our target." A familiar voice spoke out from the shadows.
The Jounin stepped out of the shadows, and joined the group, while Jiraiya eyed him with suspicions.
"Hatake-san, we apologize if we seemed to have no confidence in your skills ..." The leader apologized as Kakashi raised his hand, signing him to stop.
"Make nothing of it. Concentrate on this and this mission alone." Kakashi quickly interrupted.
"Since everyone's here, we better go. You Anbus take point, me and Kakashi will guard the back." Jiraiya stated as he walked over to the Jounin.
The Anbus nodded, as they took point and headed within the forest to their next destination, while Kakashi was ready to join them, until he felt the sennin's hand grip his shoulder.
"Don't worry about them Kakashi." Jiraiya let out.
"They're my students Jiraiya ... And the fact that I can't even see or hear about them, worries me." Kakashi stated as he slightly turned his head to see the sennin's face.
"The tension between Naruto and Sasuke is noticeable. But Naruto completely shuts out anyone who dares to come near him. I also had a little talk with the Uchiha boy, and I believe I got through to him." Jiraiya began.
"You believe?" Kakashi raised an eyebrow.
"I did what I could on my part to help both boys, now it's up to them to either heal old wounds, or reopen them." Jiraiya explained as he removed his hand and passed by the Jounin.
"Once this mission's over, I want details of everything that happened to Naruto and Sasuke while they weren't under my care." Kakashi warned the sennin as he soon joined in on the chase.
The sennin nodded as the two set out of Konoha, to begin their new A ranked mission.
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Training Grounds
Half an hour had passed since Naruto fell unconscious, while Sasuke remained by his side. The Uchiha, took the responsibility to drag his rival's sleeping body all the way back to his own house. He held Naruto by the waist, as the blonde's arm was wrapped around Sasuke's neck to help support his weight, while Naruto's head rested against his rival's shoulder.
"Why is he the only person who makes me feel these strange and yet old feelings ...?" Sasuke questioned himself as he continued, and walked slowly through the empty streets of Konoha.
---- 10 Minutes Later ----
Both boys were only minutes away from Sasuke's house, as Sasuke stopped a moment to check up on his rival. He slowly turned his head and found that Naruto was actually smiling.
"There's the idiot I know ..." Sasuke let out, as he prepared to continue when he felt the presence of another shinobi near them.
Without any hesitation, Sasuke reached within his holster, as his other hand was too busy carrying and supporting his rival. By instinct, Sasuke's Sharingan appeared, as he heard the sound of branches being broken while the shinobi's presence became more and more felt.
"I was wondering where you boys where." Iruka spoke out, as Sasuke retreated his hand form his holster, aware it was his previous teacher at the Academy.
"Iruka. Why are you here?" Sasuke coldly asked as he felt relieved it was but the Chuunin than an intruder, since lately, Konoha's defenses were down and seemed to have many intruders enter it as well.
"Would it be too much to ask you to at least call me sensei?" Iruka raised an eyebrow and walked closer to his two former students.
"I don't even call Kakashi like that." Sasuke firmly stated as he slightly turned with the unconscious Naruto in his arms.
"Naruto, I'm surprised you haven't jumped on me ..." Iruka started but quickly silenced himself as he noticed the boy the Uchiha held, was knocked out cold.
Iruka rushed towards both boys as he lifted the blonde's head and carefully examined him, making sure he wasn't in any danger or wounded, while Sasuke simply observed the Chuunin, and the way he acted around Naruto.
"Good, he only seems exhausted." Iruka sighed in relief, as he then turned towards Sasuke. "You'll have some explaining to do, once we put him in bed." Iruka warned the boy as he leaned down to grab Naruto within his own arms.
Sasuke stepped aside as the Chuunin completely lifted Naruto's body off the ground, while his arms supported his body, in the bridal way. Naruto's head rested against Iruka's chest, while Sasuke stayed close, in case he was needed.
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Sasuke's House
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
The moment they entered the house, Sasuke led the way to Naruto's room, and once they entered it, Iruka carefully walked towards the bed, while Sasuke leaned against the doorframe, his arms crossed, and his eyes focused on his rival and former sensei.
"Sasuke, could you bring me some water?" Iruka asked as he settled his favorite student on the bed.
As Sasuke left the room to get the water his former sensei demanded, Iruka tended carefully to Naruto. He laid the boy on his back, as he slowly removed the jacket and the Leaf headband.
"Here." Sasuke said as he had already returned from the kitchen and handed over the bowl filled with cold water and a small towels already soaked in it.
"Arigatou." Iruka thanked him as he grabbed the bowl and set it aside on the nightstand, next to his right side and the bed.
Naruto remained unconscious, as he only had his black ninja fishnet on, his sandals and his pants. Iruka carefully brushed the golden locks out of the blonde's closed eyes, as he took the wet towel and cleaned the dirt off of the boy's forehead.
"Could you take his sandals off?" Iruka asked as he continue to wash Naruto's face.
"Hn." Sasuke responded as he walked at the end of the bed.
Within seconds, both sandals were off, as Iruka removed the holster from Naruto's right leg. Iruka then grabbed the nearest chair and pulled it closer to the boy's bed side as he made sure to observe the Uchiha, without this one noticing.
"Did you two boys fight again?" Iruka asked, as he pulled the covers up to Naruto's neck, as he carefully placed the boy's arms above the rest of the sheets.
"Iie." Sasuke replied as he crossed his arms and leaned against the wall.
As Iruka placed Naruto's right arm above the sheets, he noticed how the bandages were no longer on it, he was a bit confused but then again, he would ask Jiraiya of it later.
"His chakra is really low ..." Iruka started.
"He was out ... training ..." Sasuke half lied, after all, even he didn't know the whole truth behind Naruto's sudden training and then throw himself down in a pit.
"Guess he simply over did it again. That boy, he always trains too hard." Iruka stated as he sat back against the chair, relieved.
"Again?" This had caught Sasuke's attention.
Iruka turned his head to notice that Sasuke was slightly curious about this fact, and decided perhaps he should have a little talk with the boy, it wouldn't hurt would it?
"Hai. Naruto trains hard everyday to become the best shinobi of this Village, after all his dream is to become Hokage." Iruka started as he felt the glares of the Uchiha, after all, Sasuke was the kind of person who wants to get to the point right away.
"Get to the point." Sasuke demanded.
"Did you know that the reason he trains so hard is because of you?" Iruka asked, which earned him the attention of the boy.
"Nani?" Sasuke let out, surprised by his former sensei's words.
"As you might have noticed, not many like to have Naruto around ... For Naruto, to see you so easily appreciated by the entire village, he envies you because of his harsh life. So that's why he trains so hard any chance he gets, so he could match the great Uchiha Sasuke, and if that happens one day, maybe ... maybe the adults and children would acknowledge him instead of ignoring him ..." Iruka's voice was filled with sadness.
Silence consumed the room, as for a second time, Sasuke felt somewhat sad to hear how Naruto's life seemed full of hatred and yet, how could that idiot continue to laugh?
"You know ... This isn't the first time he came home exhausted." Iruka continue and broke the silence, hoping it was a good idea to pursue the conversation with Uchiha.
"How many ..?" Sasuke asked, curious to the answer he would get.
"I stopped counting after 10." Iruka smiled. "Since he lives alone, no one would notice his disappearance and so I checked up on him when I could. Ever since he's part of Team 7, he trains himself harder than most genin would, and sometimes, until his chakra is nearly depleted. Sometimes he never found the strength to even come home and so, I'd go search on the training grounds. And there I found him, laying peacefully on the ground, covered in cuts and bruises." Iruka continued, both impressed and saddened by the information he was telling.
"That idiot ..." Sasuke commented as he evaded any eye contact with the Chuunin.
"Maybe, but you have to admit, his determination and his will to succeed is simply amazing, since he had a hard life ... The only regret I have is not being there often enough when he needed me ..." Iruka spoke as he brushed Naruto's cheek.
"No one could know ..." Sasuke let out, as Iruka raised his head, not hearing clearly what the boy said.
"Did you say something?" Iruka asked, curious to what the Uchiha had to say.
"When will he wake up?" Sasuke lied.
"He should wake up in a day or two. Just enough time to regain his own chakra." Iruka answered. "Jiraiya was right, Sasuke might show a cold exterior, but within, it seems Naruto managed to touch him a little ..." Iruka thought, as he remembered the small conversation he had with the Sennin, less than an hour ago.
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FLASHBACK
---- Iruka's House, On The Porch ----
Iruka reached within his pocket for the keys to unlock his door, when he heard footsteps behind him. The Chuunin turned around as he recognized the figure who stood only meters from him.
"Coming home late aren't we?" Jiraiya stated and smirked.
"Jiraiya-sama, well I had too many papers to grade and since I'm not allowed to see Naruto yet, well I have much free time in my hands." Iruka commented.
"You know very well why Tsunade took that decision?" Jiraiya let out.
"Hai, but to me, his still my student." Iruka stated and grinned as he then moved to the next subject. "So why are you here?" Iruka asked.
"I'm here because Tsunade requested that I give you a message." Jiraiya said as he leaned against the fence and crossed his arms.
"Message?" Iruka was now curious.
"I'll be out of town with Kakashi for a few days, so Tsunade wanted to know if you could check up on the boys." Jiraiya stated.
"Out? OUT!? First of all you don't want either me or Kakashi to go see them and now you leave just like that!?" Iruka yelled out, as he was angered as he walked towards the sennin.
"We don't have a choice. It's a high ranked mission that requires both me and Kakashi with some Anbus." Jiraiya defended himself, as he heard how Iruka could be when it came to Naruto.
"How can a mission be more important than Naruto and Sasuke!?" Iruka demanded an answer as his fists clenched.
"Because Uchiha Itachi was spotted." Jiraiya let out as Iruka's eyes widened.
"Na ... Nani..?" Iruka let out as he calmed himself quickly upon hearing the name of the S class missing-nin.
"We finally spotted Uchiha Itachi, and there's a good chance he's after Naruto again. So Tsunade decided that we should intercept him before he reaches Naruto this time." Jiraiya explained as the Chuunin took a few steps back, shocked by this information.
"I'll watch over them, but with my job as a teacher I can't always be there to ..." Iruka started as he leaned against the opposite fence to where Jiraiya stood.
"Tsunade took care of that already. You'll only be teaching classes in the morning, and you'll be paid for the rest of the day since this is considered like a mission." Jiraiya informed him as Iruka looked him straight into the eyes.
"What about the morning?" Iruka asked, worried to leave Naruto alone, without anyone there to care.
"I've talked with that Uchiha boy, he'll keep an eye out on your brat." Jiraiya reassured him, or tried to.
"Uchiha Sasuke? Those two are rivals! And Sasuke isn't the kind to care about the others and ..." Iruka trailed of when Jiraiya quickly interrupted him.
"I've spoken to the boy, although he looks like a little bastard, he still has a heart underneath that icy armor of his." Jiraiya explained.
"It's understandable that he's cold to everyone, after what Itachi put him through ..." Iruka trailed off, as he remembered vaguely about the Uchiha massacre.
"And so you don't be surprised, I've revealed some information to Sasuke." Jiraiya spoke out as this earned him the complete attention of the Chuunin.
"You didn't tell him about the ..." Iruka couldn't even say the word.
"Iie, all Sasuke knows is that Naruto bears a great burden which only the Uzumaki clan held. I also mentioned to him about Naruto's parents dying the day of his birth ..." Jiraiya revealed as he continued, so the Chuunin would be prepared in case Sasuke asked questions.
5 minutes passed, as Jiraiya repeated his complete conversation with Sasuke to the Chuunin, and much to Iruka's surprise, the sennin was able to tell most of the truth in a very believable story, enough to satisfy Sasuke's curiosity for now.
"So now Sasuke knows more about Naruto's parents than Naruto himself ..." Iruka repeated the last phrase.
"Hai, but it was the only way to see, if that brat actually gave a damn about Naruto at all." Jiraiya explained his actions.
"Does he?" Iruka asked, since he somehow needed to know the truth.
"Under that icy skin of his, he does. For Sasuke, Naruto's a friend, one that doesn't view him like the sole survivor, or the last hope to get the Uchiha clan back. Naruto sees him as a friend and rival, and through their complicated relationship, they actually respect each other." Jiraiya explained.
"How does calling Naruto a dobe and a baka daily, show any respect for his rival and teammate?" Iruka asked as he walked closer to the sennin.
"Have you ever heard Sasuke call anyone else that? Or even pay slightly attention to anyone else? Even that Haruno girl doesn't get any special names." Jiraiya reminded the Chuunin.
"Even so ..." Iruka started.
"Listen Iruka, Sasuke can care, but after what Itachi did to him those years ago, it's not surprising at all that the brat keeps his feelings all bottled up." Jiraiya continued.
"I suppose ..." He replied.
"Listen, when other people are around, Sasuke won't show his emotions. So you have to learn to read him, and give him the information, although he verbally didn't ask for it. If you can do that, than perhaps those two can start healing." Jiraiya stated as he started to walk away.
"Where do you think you're going!?" Iruka shouted as he took a step towards the sennin's retreating back.
"I have a mission to accomplish. So please feel free to check up on them very soon." Jiraiya commented.
"Soon?" Iruka raised an eyebrow.
"I went there earlier tonight and the brats were nowhere to be found. So please take care of them until we return." Jiraiya stated before he vanished in the dark street of Konoha.
"He could have given me more information ... I'll have to talk to Tsunade tomorrow ..." Iruka told himself as he then decided he would head for Sasuke's house, and wait, if they hadn't arrived yet.
END OF FLASHBACK
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Sasuke's House
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke was just about ready to leave when Iruka stopped him with a comment that caught the boy's attention.
"Are you his friend?" Iruka asked out of the blue.
"Strange ..." Sasuke let out, a small smile covered his lips as he turned to face the Chuunin who sat on the other side of the kitsune's bed.
"Eh?" Iruka not fully understanding what the boy was referring to.
"Jiraiya asked me the same question last night ..." Sasuke let out, a bit amused by the fact that his former sensei, now asked him the same question as the sennin.
"I see..." Iruka smiled as well.
"Although he's an idiot ... He's the only person that didn't expect anything out of me ... to him, I wasn't Uchiha Sasuke, the sole survivor of my clan, nor the number one rookie of the village ... to him, I was just a bastard, someone simply stronger than him..." Sasuke stated as he lowered his gaze to the sleeping blond.
"I take it that you consider him as a friend ..." Iruka gladly filled in the words Uchiha didn't dare to speak.
"Hn." Sasuke flatly replied as he walked out of the bedroom.
Iruka couldn't help but smile, Jiraiya was right after all, when he's either alone or not many are around the boy, Sasuke was more human than he let on. Iruka took one last glance at his former student, before he decided to join Sasuke in the kitchen.
"I'll come back tomorrow ..." Iruka whispered as he closed the lights and the door behind him, as he left.
---- Kitchen ----
Sasuke drank a glass of water as he noticed Iruka walking his way.
"Sasuke, I'll come back again tomorrow before I teach my classes." Iruka informed the boy.
"I thought Jiraiya was the one to observe us to make sure we don't kill each other." Sasuke reminded the Chuunin with a cold tone.
"Jiraiya and Kakashi won't be in the Village for a few days, so I'll be watching over Naruto when I can, although I would appreciate it if you could as well ..." Iruka trailed off, not sure if the boy would accept.
"Fine. That idiot will be asleep anyway." Sasuke stated as he placed the glass in the sink.
"Would you mind not calling him that?" Iruka forced a smile.
"Naze? He is one." Sasuke stated.
"Jiraiya was right, when it comes to Naruto, he puts up his defenses." Iruka mentally told himself.
"If you have nothing more to say, then please leave." Sasuke coldly told him.
"Sasuke, what do you know about Naruto?" Iruka asked, against his better judgment.
"I've already had this conversation with Jiraiya." Sasuke coldly replied as he began to walk towards his own room.
"Then you know how hard life has been for him?" Iruka let out as he watched the back of his student.
The boy didn't reply, but stopped any movements.
"I can only imagine how hard it was to loose your entire clan by the person you admired, then found yourself alone and the sole survivor of it, but you were somewhat lucky ..." Iruka trailed off, aware that whenever it came to the Uchiha history, Sasuke lost his cool.
Sasuke's fists clenched and trembled, as the Uchiha slowly turned his head towards the Chuunin's direction, his Sharingan already activated by the anger he felt of someone talking about his family's history, and saying he was lucky.
"Leave." Sasuke ordered with a deadly and cold tone of voice.
"Iie." Iruka stood his ground, which earned him a direct look into those red Sharingan eyes. "I didn't mean to offend you Sasuke. I'm just pointing out that you have those special memories of happiness, that at least you knew your clan, your parents before they were taken away from you ... For Naruto, he never knew or shared any special moments with anyone, because no one was there for him. He doesn't know what it means or feels like to have someone care and love him. All he knows is the hatred and loneliness ... That's why, compared to him, you were lucky to at least experience those things in life ..." He tried to reach out to the boy, hoping he would succeed.
Sasuke's intense glare faded away with each word the Chuunin spoke, as his Sharingan faded, to leave those dark blue eyes to stare at. The moment Iruka took a good look in those eyes, he noticed now that he had Sasuke's attention.
"He ... He couldn't have been alone all the time, he was just a baby, someone must have taken care of him till now." Sasuke stated as he turned around to face the Chuunin who stood a few meters away from him.
"He had someone from time to time ..." Iruka let out as he walked towards the kitchen table as Sasuke eyed him.
"Time to time?" Sasuke raised an eyebrow as he moved closer to the Chuunin.
"The apartment where he lives now, is the only 'home' he's known. The third Hokage gave it to him, while he had many caretakers. But as you must know, they hated Naruto with a passion, even when he was but a defenseless baby ... They never stayed around more than a week. And even so, they didn't really care for him ... Some even mistreated him ..." Iruka spoke with sadness.
"What ..." Sasuke let out, surprised by the new information he was told about his rival.
"Even at a young age, Naruto never felt loved but only hated, so when he turned 5 years old, The third Hokage let him live alone, but checked up on him from time to time, when he had no meetings and wasn't busy with his duty being Hokage." Iruka sighed as he remembered how he always watched Naruto from a certain distance.
"They hate him that much because of his parents?" Sasuke asked out of anger and curiosity.
"They hated him for something even he didn't know about ..." Iruka let out as he lowered his head, as though he was ashamed.
"Something he didn't know? The only thing Jiraiya told me was that the idiot didn't know about his parents." Sasuke spoke out as he walked even closer to the Chuunin, his eyes filled with worry and confusion.
"True, Naruto was never informed of his parents identity or what really happened to them, but we were asked to never reveal nor talk about the burden he carries as the last member of his clan." Iruka carefully picked his words, but it did help that Jiraiya had partly explained to him what he revealed to the boy.
"If this concerns the Uzumaki clan, why wasn't he told so?" Sasuke asked.
"Because, the burden of the clan can be as much as a gift than a curse he'll carry until the day he dies, unless it kills him first ..." Iruka trailed off
"How can it be both a gift and a curse?" The boy asked, more intrigued than ever.
"Since you've been on the same team with him, I'm sure you've seen how he heals quicker than anyone else, as well as his chakra. The boy seems to hold more chakra than the average genin..." Iruka let out, as he felt somewhat guilty to reveal such things to Naruto's rival, but perhaps it was the only way to get the old Naruto back.
"Hn ..." Sasuke replied as he leaned against the wall, arms crossed and his eyes closed, as he remembered the few moments Naruto showed such power.
"As for his curse, the curse mark you bare because of Orochimaru, is nothing compared to his. If Naruto overuses his chakra too much, that might be the end of him ..." Iruka said, as he knew that if the seal were to brake, Naruto would lose his soul to the Kyubi, although Sasuke wasn't aware of the complete truth.
"Does he know this?" Sasuke asked as he reopened his eyes.
"Gomen Sasuke, but there are some that I shouldn't mention, since this is Naruto's life." Iruka said as he felt as though he gave out too much information.
"Then why did you begin to tell me about it in the first place?" Sasuke shot back and glared at the Chuunin.
"Because ..." Iruka wanted to explain, but then he remembered Jiraiya words. "The boy isn't the kind to reveal his emotion but you can easily read him. Sometimes you have to say it for him."
"Answer." Sasuke demanded.
"It was actually stupid of me ..." Iruka changed his tone as he stood up and turned his back to the Uchiha. "I actually believed that perhaps if you knew a little more about Naruto, you would at least care about him ... Since he seems to be a bother, I'll ask Tsunade-sama if Naruto can come with me, so you can go back to your way of living." Iruka stated as he grabbed the doorknob and prepared to walk out of the house.
"Don't." Sasuke let out coldly.
"A change of heart?" Iruka's lips formed an evil smile, after all, this might be the only way to see if Jiraiya was right about how Sasuke would react.
"Iie, but if Naruto moved with you, you wouldn't be able to watch over him since you still need to teach at the Academy." Sasuke reminded him.
"You are correct. In any case, I'll pass by tomorrow morning before classes, so if you change your mind about ..." Iruka started.
"I won't." Sasuke firmly stated, much to the Chuunin's delight.
"Very well. I hope you forgive me for what I said earlier. Goodnight." Iruka spoke out as he walked out of the house and closed the door behind him.
Sasuke eyed the door a few minutes, before he felt the Chuunin was no longer present. The boy closed the kitchen's light and then headed for his rival's room.
---- Just Outside The house ----
Iruka closed his eyes and took in a deep breath, as he carefully masked his presence so the boy couldn't notice he was still around.
"You were right Jiraiya, deep down, under that cold armor of his, Sasuke does care for Naruto ... Because of what happened to his clan, he put up a barrier so he wouldn't feel that kind of pain anymore, just like Naruto ... Those two are more alike then they would want to admit ..." Iruka told himself as he heard Sasuke's footsteps that headed towards Naruto's room.
Iruka lost no time as he headed around the house and reached Naruto's bedroom window, and took a peek within, to see that the boy leaned against the doorframe, his arms crossed, but his eyes focused on the bed, where Naruto laid.
---- Inside Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke stared at the sleeping blond, as this one looked finally at peace, compared to earlier today.
"He looks peaceful, just like that time ..." Sasuke thought as he remembered how Naruto dragged his over abused body towards Gaara, until he appeared. Moments later, Kankuro and Temari appeared and left with Gaara, while Naruto passed out on the ground, a small smile appeared on his lips.
At that moment, Sasuke's eyes softened as he took one last look at his sleeping rival, before he left for his own room to get the much needed sleep.
---- Outside Naruto's Bedroom Window----
Iruka stepped away from the window, as he was able to catch that small moment of softness he noticed in those usually cold eyes.
"It seems that Naruto is in good hands after all ..." Iruka let out as he vanished from the Uchiha grounds, and left for his own house to get a good night sleep.
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Somewhere ...
"Any word on Kakashi-san?" Itachi asked as he looked over to his partner.
"There moving and acting as you predicted Itachi-san." Kisame replied.
"Good, then we should move as well." Itachi stated as he beagan to walk down the path between the high trees.
"They'll have no idea what hit them ..." Kisame commented as he joined his partner's side.
"By the time they do, it will already be too late ..." Itachi added.
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Sasuke's House
---- Sasuke's Room ---- The first rays of the sun came through the window and rested on Sasuke's pale face. Sasuke shifted in bed, until the bright light no longer blinded his sight, and then, the boy simply pulled the covers off his body and sat up in bed.
"Already morning ..." Sasuke let out, as he felt more exhausted then ever, with all the information he kept getting about his rival, a rival he thought he knew, but soon realized, that he knew nothing at all about him.
Sasuke sighed, as he decided it might be a good idea to check up on his rival, although he already knew that this one would still be asleep. And so, the boy decided to dress up in his usual dark clothing, as he attached his headband around his head and headed out for Naruto's room.
---- Hallway ----
Sasuke walked out of his room and headed towards the kitchen, since that was the only way to access the hallway that led to Naruto's bedroom. Sasuke was on his way o his rival's room when someone came knocking on his front door.
Knock Knock
"It must be Iruka ..." Sasuke let out as he headed towards the front door.
---- Front Door ----
Sasuke quickly grabbed the doorknob and opened the door to reveal indeed his former sensei that stood there.
"Ohayo Sasuke." Iruka greeted his former student.
"Hn." Sasuke replied as he stood in the doorframe.
"I came by to see if you changed your mind about ..." Iruka started but deep down he already knew the answer, although he didn't expect the boy to be somewhat so direct in his answer.
"Iie." Sasuke replied.
"Very well, then I'll ask that you watch over him for the rest of the day, since I have to meet Tsunade-sama and I still have my classes to teach." Iruka stated.
"Hn." Sasuke replied again, much to Iruka's disappointment.
"Well, I'll try to come back later tonight, unless you wish to remain alone with Naruto?" Iruka began.
"Iie, I have some training to do this evening, and I have no intention of bringing a sleeping baka with me." Sasuke coldly stated.
"Then I'll come back before night falls." Iruka stated as he turned around and began to leave the Uchiha grounds
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, surprised that his former sensei didn't even try to come in and check up on the boy, but then again, Sasuke could only wish the Chuunin would leave so fast, so he could check up on the boy, by himself.
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke stepped within his rival's room, as the first thing he set his eyes on, were the young blond that still laid unconscious. Perhaps a part of Sasuke, wished to have the loudmouth awake then sleeping. After all, if it wasn't for Naruto, Sasuke's life would be even more boring and he'd have to deal with Sakura's annoying attempts to seduce him and so on.
Sasuke snapped out of his thoughts, as he noticed how his rival was all tangled up in his own sheets, his hair all messed up and covered most of his face, even that peaceful smile Sasuke somehow liked to see.
"Even in his sleep he manages to get himself in stupid situations ..." Sasuke let out as he found himself staring at his rival once again.
As the minutes passed, Sasuke decided to walk closer and get his rival out of that situation. He lifted the covers off of the boy, and found that this one was curled up in a ball, as though he had a nightmare.
The moment Sasuke removed the sheets from Naruto's body, he shivered. Sasuke carefully placed back the covers on, properly, as the boy simply shifted back to sleep on his back, his hair still covered his face. Sasuke leaned forward as he brushed off the golden locks on Naruto's face, before he pulled back and leaned against the wall.
"Of all the people in the Village ... Why is he the only one capable to make me feel these old feelings ...?" Sasuke asked himself as he stared at the blond.
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Somewhere ...
---- Camp Site for the Leaf Shinobis ----
The Anbus, Kakashi and Jiraiya rested at a secure location during the night to get their strength back, after all, they should soon encounter Itachi and Kisame according to the Sennin.
With the first rays of light appearing through the thick forest, the team took it as their cue, to wake up, and start moving again, while they still had a fresh trail on their missing-nins.
"We can only pray this mission doesn't end with any casualties ..." An Anbu commented to his comrades, hoping that the Jounin and Sennin didn't understand him.
Meters away from them, the Sennin and Jounin were within their own conversation about Sasuke and Naruto, although the Anbu's comment was still heard, as they both exchanged looks.
"I wonder if it was wise to bring them along ..." Jiraiya commented as he focused back on his conversation with Kakashi.
"Although they have yet faced Uchiha Itachi, they can still be of some help to us." Kakashi reminded the Sennin.
"I'm aware of that, but something isn't right about this situation ..." The sennin let out as he took a sip of his bottle, filled with sake.
"Hai... It seems too easy to track Itachi." Kakashi added as he read his favorite book.
"Even the best shinobis sometimes makes mistakes, or ..." Jiraiya began as he knew Kakashi would continue his own sentence.
"Or, there's a leak within Konoha and he's expecting us." Kakashi let out as he closed his book and discarded it within one of his pockets.
"My thoughts exactly." Jiraiya agreed.
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Sasuke's House
---- Hallway ----
For the rest of the day, Sasuke remained in his house, cleaning up old things, as well as putting some away, after all he didn't want the blond to be curious about everything that concerned his family, but then again, Naruto never cared much from where Sasuke came from, to him, he was but a rival that he wanted to beat badly.
By the time Sauske finished, the evening was near as the sun began to come down, it's warm rays that filled the near empty house, soon turning to coldness. The boy sighed before he headed for his room to pick up his training gear when he heard strange noises that came from his rival's bedroom.
Thump
"What the ...?" Sasuke turned his head towards Naruto's bedoom.
---- Just Outside Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke prepared to take a step forward when his rival's bedroom door suddenly flew wide open. The Uchiha raised an eyebrow, wondering if it could have been the wind that opened it, that was until he saw a tuff of blond hair that came out of it.
"Naruto ..!? How the hell can he be standing up?" Sasuke questioned himself as he stared at the blond boy with surprise.
Naruto barely had any strength as he clung onto the wood form the door frame, his vision already blurry, he had much difficulty to distinguish his surroundings. He took a few steps forward, and at some point he let go of his only mean of support, which resulted immediately into his downfall.
Naruto barely had time to realize that he fell when suddenly something warm was beneath him. Naruto raised his head and his vision started to clear up when he noticed that who or what ever was beneath him, they were on the cold floor.
"Sasuke ...?" Naruto let out as he noticed those dark eyes and hair.
"Who else would it be?" Sasuke shot back as he noticed how Naruto seemed 'out of it'.
Naruto realized that Sasuke had probably reached him before he fell face first on the ground and quickly, and as skillfully as he could, he moved away from the Uchiha's body and sat down against the nearest wall so he could remained at least seated. Sasuke got himself back up on his feet as he dusted his behind from the dirt.
"Gomen ..." Naruto let out as he avoided his rival's gaze.
"Gomen? Since when does he apologize? Especially to me?" Sasuke thought as he noticed Naruto being once more distant.
"How long have I been out?" Naruto asked.
"Not even a day." Sasuke bluntly replied as he stared at Naruto.
"Oh ..." Naruto let out as he lowered his head.
Both boys remained silent for the next few minutes, until Naruto got bored and annoyed by the current situation and decided that he should go back to his room. Naruto shakily stood up, but the wall next to him supported him greatly, as he continuously felt those dark eyes on his entire body.
"Can't you go annoy someone else today?" Naruto glared at his rival.
"Baka, I'm not annoying you, you can do that fine on your own." Sasuke commented.
"Whatever." Naruto replied as he desperately tried to get back into his room, after all, he didn't need to pick a fight with Sasuke right now.
"Here." Sasule let out as he moved towards Naruto.
"What the hell ...?" Naruto let out, surprised as Sasuke wrapped an arm around his waist and supported his body weight instead of the wall.
"It's obvious you need help right now." Sasuke stated as he helped the boy within the bedroom.
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
Both boys walked in, although Naruto's body stiffened from being helped by his rival.
"Since when do you even care to help me? Aren't I always in your way? A burden to you and the rest of the team?" Naruto spat out, angered as Sasuke laid him in his bed.
"Baka, if I didn't care, why would I be here right now instead of training?" Sasuke spoke as he observed the blond.
"You don't have to lie to make me feel better ..." Naruto mumbled as he crossed his arms.
"Have I ever lied before?" Sasuke shot back.
Naruto's anger suddenly vanished on it's own, as the boy slowly lifted his head up, his eyes met those of Sasuke, and at that moment, he noticed that the boy was sincere, but also spoke the truth. A Uchiha never lied unless it was a mission and necessary for his survival.
"Why...?" Naruto asked, his eyes and tone of voice filled with pain.
"Listen Naruto, you might be a baka and a dobe, but you're still my teammate, my rival ... and my friend ..." Sasuke trailed off, since he wasn't use to say that word often, as well as meaning it.
"Friend ...?" Naruto let out, eyes widened in surprised.
Sasuke felt uncomfortable under the sudden gaze of his rival, as he shifted and turned his head to avoid that gaze, which Naruto quickly noticed.
"Listen ... I'll be out most of the evening to train since I stayed here all day. Iruka should be here soon enough and I'm sure he'll be happy to see you awake, so while I'm out, try not to burn my house down." Sasuke changed quickly the subject, since he didn't like the feelings that stirred within him when he spoke to Naruto in a normal conversation instead of the normal bickering and fighting.
"You're leaving?" Naruto questioned.
"I have to train dobe." Sasuke reminded the boy.
"You bastard don't call me that!" Naruto spat out in anger of his usual nickname.
Sasuke couldn't help but smile a little as his eyes softened on his rival. Naruto noticed this and looked over to the boy in front of him, confused to why he would smile.
"What the hell are you smiling about?" Naruto asked.
"It's been a while since you called me a bastard." Sasuke reminded his rival as he walked out of the bedroom, his back turned from his rival.
"Whatever." Naruto brushed it off and pouted.
"Have it your way, I'm going to train." Sasuke coldly stated as he got closer to the only door that kept him from leaving the room.
"Why are you leaving right now?" Naruto asked, confused of his rival's words.
"I just need to be alone. So I can think." Sasuke stated.
"Fine, then just leave." Naruto spat out.
"Dobe. Just get better." Sasuke demanded.
"What for? It's not like anyone will notice or care." Naruto spat out.
Sasuke stopped right under the doorframe, as he slightly turned his head enough to catch a glimpse of the blond. Naruto's head was a little low, but he could clearly see his eyes and lips. The small remark the Uchiha boy made, was enough to even get a small and true smile form the blond. Although the smile only lasted a few seconds, Sasuke had more than enough time to catch it.
"Naruto ..." Sasuke let out softly.
"Yeah?" Naruto waited for Sasuke's words.
"I care ..." Sasuke informed him as he walked out of the room, on his way to the training grounds.
"Sasuke ..." Naruto let out, surprised by the 'normal' conversation he had with his long time rival.
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Somewhere ...
---- In The Forest, Tree Level ----
The Leaf shinobis continued to move at a quicker pace, as they felt they were near their goal, each shinobi, lost within their own thoughts about their mission, while others more concerned about their younger teammates back at Konoha, and yet, they all remained focused on the task at hand, as well as their surroundings.
"Wait." Jiraiya let out loud enough for the team to hear.
The Anbus immediately jumped on the nearest and strongest branch to the sennin, while Kakashi joined the sennin and stood beside him, crouched like animals, observing what laid before them.
"Jiraiya-sama, do you see something?" An Anbu whispered.
"Hai, it seems that our targets are right below us ..." Jiraiya replied with a low tone.
---- Ground Level ----
Two distinct figures, dressed in a black trench coat with red imprints on them as well as a Chinese hat that covered most of their identity. They continued to walk as though they didn't fell the presence of the 8 Leaf shinobis, but made sure to leave no opening if there were to be an ambush or surprise attack.
---- Tree Level ----
"They've masked their chakra almost perfectly ..." Kakashi commented as he lifted his headband off his Sharingan eye.
"Hai, but they must know we're here already ..." Jiraiya commented as his eyes never left the two cloaked figures.
"What do you wish for us to do?" The Anbu leader asked.
"We face them. There is no other way, they already know of our presence." Jiraiya sighed as he stood up form the branch and jumped down to where the two Akatsuki members where.
"Jiraiya-sama!" The Anbu hissed, surprised and shocked by the sennin's action.
"Come, and be on guard at all times." Kakashi stated as he jumped down to the ground as well.
All 6 Anbus exchanged worried looks before they decided to obey and jump down as well.
---- Ground Level ----
The sennin and Jounin took point first, as the 6 Anbus remained only 2 meters behind them in case they need back-up, as well to watch their backs. The two dark figures stopped any movements, as the tallest one slightly turned his head to have a glimpse of what stood behind himself and his partner.
"Very wise for you to show yourselves than hiding..." He spoke out with a calm voice.
"Uchiha Itachi ..." Kakashi let out as his eyes met those red ones, the Sharingan.
============================================================================ ======================
Hokage Tower
---- Tsunade's Office ----
After yet another pile of homework to correct, Iruka finally decided it migh be time to visit Tsunade to get a little more information on what was happening, as well as inform her of recent events that took place under the Uchiha's house.
"I guess you want some explanations am I right?" Tsunade asked but aready knew the answer.
"Hai, Jiraiya-san wasn't really specific about certain things ..." Iruka trailed off as he walked closer to the Hokage's desk
"You will be informed, but this stays within this room and is not to come out. Is that clear?" Tsunade asked, as she got out of her chair and walked towards the Chuunin.
"Hai." Iruka answered.
"But first, how are the boys doing?" Tsunade asked, still worried about Naruto's change of behavior.
"I don't know where I should begin ..." Iruka let out with a small smile.
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Sasuke's House
---- Kitchen ----
It had been an hour since Sasuke left the house, in need to have his personal space and to train, or so that's what he told Naruto. And so, Naruto had the empty and cold house all to himself for the next few hours, as well he would eat alone.
"Time for ramen!" Naruto cheerfully said as he opened the cupboards and picked out an instant cup of miso ramen.
Naruto boiled some water and after a few minutes, he poured the hot water within his bowl as the scent of miso ramen could be smelled throughout the entire house. Naruto walked over to the table and sat down as he took his chopsticks and was ready to eat, when suddenly, a thought crossed his mind.
"This is weird ... I kinda miss not having that bastard around ... I wonder why ...?" Naruto asked himself as he stared down at his bowl.
A few minutes passed as Naruto was lost within his own thoughts when he decided he should simply burry them in the back of his mind for now. After all, he didn't give a damn about Sasuke right? He was use to always eating and being alone. So why did it feel strange that when Sasuke wasn't around, he felt somewhat more sad then happy?
Knock Knock
Someone knocked on the front door which pulled Naruto out of his thoughts. He tossed the chopsticks aside as he stood out and made his way towards the front door, angry that Sasuke would come and annoy him at a time like this.
"Dammit Sasuke! I thought you said you wouldn't be back till late this evening!? And this is your damn house! Why the hell would you knock!?" Naruto yelled out as he rushed through the hall to get to the front door.
Naruto violently grabbed the doorknob, as the door flew wide open, and revealed a dark haired boy dressed in black. Naruto looked straight into those eyes, and found that a pair of Sharingan eyes, stared right back at him ...
TBC ...
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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.
Again sorry for the lateness but I've been called to work every day, including week-ends, and I had this projects due in for school which I haven't totally finished yet because I wanted to update my stories, so please FORGIVE ME for updating late and I hope you enjoyed it!
This chapter was 8 500 words! Be happy!
23 Reviews! I lost like 13 people when I worked really hard to get the fifth chapter out ... Now this was long and painful to write since I wanted something to happen, but I kinda screwed that up, they did talk, but without giving out too much of their inner feelings so I hope this wasn't too bad, but I promise, next chapter, you're gonna love it or you're gonna hate me for what I have planned ... Let me know!
Oh and sorry if Sasuke was a bit OCC but at least they're beginning to show less anger towards each other than before.
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REVIEWS
Yasai-chan : Tanks, I'm glad some really appreciate the time I put into the chapters of this story, also nice to know that I'm setting the mood really good and Kyubi wasn't OCC that much.
Dearest : I updated although the fact I was 13 reviews less made me kinda wait longer to even touch and write this chapter, so if it's short than usual sorry about that.
Ghostninja85 : Well Kyubi is evil without a doubt, but then again he's very much aware of what happens to Naruto's every day life. Then again, Kyubi wants to be free but if Naruto died, he wouldn't be free in the living world. I just portrayed him in a way that Naruto was unlike most humans that feared him or used him. After all, that's the side of Naruto that makes us love him so much. Indeed, Kyubi will slowly start to respect Naruto but his strongest will to still escape will plague his mind for a long time.
Death Phoenix / sachiroyurei / duochang97 / insanechildfanfic / YukaYuka / xxphatxbaybeexx / Shadow Eclipse / BlueAngelFire : Thanks so much for taking a minute to review! It's once again highly appreciated and I really APOLOGIZE for the late update!
Kuroi kistune : Yep, here when they teach you English they don't really teach you how to speak much of it even less understanding it. I remember how the teacher taught us. People always forgot so many words that even me knowing and speaking it very well had trouble to understand them. I was always stuck being the perfect one to understand it with idiots that waited for me to do all the work and they would get the good grade. Damn them ... Glad you enjoyed the chapter!
Rubymoon17 : Sasuke's starting to show he cares! Although he should actually show it when Naruto's not unconscious ... Oh well, Better luck with this chapter.
LydiaBlessing : Glad to know you'll read some of my other stuff! Thanks for reviewing!
Arbil : Thanks for reviewing, and in this chapter you noticed both Sasuke and Naruto weren't totally being asses.
Iceheart : I so didn't want Kyubi to be OCC like in my other 2 fics I wrote when I debuted as a writer here, so I'm glad that I succeeded!
Ash of Mine : A bit drastic but as I mentioned in the previous chapter, it was the only logical way in Naruto's mind to find himself face to face with the fox. Glad you liked it so far!
Gina Reed : I had like this down time for a little while but now I think I'm better although it's hard to update so many fics weekly, and with work and study it takes longer, so sorry for the wait!
Someone : It was the only logical way I found for Jiraiya to explain without revealing what the big secret was about Naruto having the nine- tails within him and the Hyuga was the best to compare since indeed Naruto never got a say in it, plus it was hidden from him until he turned 12. I only know that Kyubi has something planned, but what I have yet decided ...
Watermelon Gal : I haven't seen you around except for my other SasuNaru story. Glad that you like this fic too! Well you found that out in this chapter!
Yuka Sakura : I'm glad people found it sweet because Iw as questioning myself if I did the right thing of having Sasuke cry over an unconscious Naruto. But I'm glad to know I did well!
Foamy and Foolproof : I haven't seen you much on MSN lately, hope to see you soon and that you like this chapter as well.
C.M Aeris Queen of Insanity : Funny little story you wrote. But no worries, Naruto will be getting a bit better, although what I have planned for the next chapter won't be too good for his own sake ...
Ranoshiai : Glad you like the fluff, but I'm more happy to hear one of you actually liking the fact I'm not rushing things. So Thanks a lot!
Monkan : Monkan-san! Me happy to see your review since I love your stories too! If only I could get more great author's to review my stories ... Ahem, back to the review ... I'm so happy to know the next chapter will be out soon cuz that's my favorite and cutest story I read from you! Also happy that you like the story so far so I hope not to disappoint you.
Jinky kurapica : Glad you enjoy this fic and my others! Sorry for the long update but I had this writer's block on this story ... I thought hard about how to write and what to write but my fingers wouldn't type ... So hopefully this chapter was good.
Hebi : But Sasuke isn't the type to show his feelings to a conscious person ne? Glad you enjoyed the fic, and you reviewed! You're always my support with rubymoon and Ookami Kage.
Angelicyokai : I know I still make mistakes but less worse than when I first started as a writer.
Kirara351 : Indeed French is complicated to learn since everything is either feminine or masculine, but at least in English it's kinda neutral, so less difficult. Besides me writing a Naruto fic in French!? I wanted to buy the manga in the French language here in quebec and I skipped through it and boy was it awfully translated! It so sucked that I dropped the book, the expression, what makes every character themselves was destroyed by the translation! So instead I decided to buy my mangas and everything else at my supplier back in the US. So I'm glad that with time I got better at writing with the help of many comments and hints. So glad you enjoy the fic and hope to see your review on this chapter!
Trina : Thank you for letting me know what you thought about this fic! And I hope you enjoyed this chapter, although it was a bit short.
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Next Chapter :
No Previews, or else I totally ruin the next chapter's plot. Sorry. Only going to give you a hint that's there's a twist that concerns Uchiha Itachi. Feel free to try and guess what it is.
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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 6 : Sharingan
Synopsis : While Naruto sleeps, Sasuke learns a little more about his rival, while Iruka comes over to check up on the boys. Meanwhile, Jiraiya, Kakashi and the Anbus set out to intercept Uchiha Itachi, along with his accomplice, Kisame in a nearby country.
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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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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
None for this chapter.
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JAPANESE WORDS
- Baka = Idiot -
- Arigatou = Thank You -
- Iie = No -
- Ohayo = Good Morning -
- Urusai = Shut Up -
- Aniki = Brother -
- Kitsune = Fox -
============================================================================ ======================
--- RECAP ---
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.
------- ============================================================================ ======================
Konoha's Gates
15 minutes have passed since their meeting with the fifth Hokage, as Jiraiya and the 6 members of the Anbu, waited for the copy ninja Kakashi to join them.
"Jiraiya-sama, not that we underestimate your strength, but Uchiha Itachi was able to defeat Hatake Kakashi, and was the one to exterminate his own clan ..." The Anbu with the cat mask spoke out with worry.
"Last time, Kakashi was caught off guard, this time, we'll have the upper hand, as long as you listen carefully to our advice." Jiraiya specified as he looked towards the group of 6.
"You'll be given more specific details on the way to meet our target." A familiar voice spoke out from the shadows.
The Jounin stepped out of the shadows, and joined the group, while Jiraiya eyed him with suspicions.
"Hatake-san, we apologize if we seemed to have no confidence in your skills ..." The leader apologized as Kakashi raised his hand, signing him to stop.
"Make nothing of it. Concentrate on this and this mission alone." Kakashi quickly interrupted.
"Since everyone's here, we better go. You Anbus take point, me and Kakashi will guard the back." Jiraiya stated as he walked over to the Jounin.
The Anbus nodded, as they took point and headed within the forest to their next destination, while Kakashi was ready to join them, until he felt the sennin's hand grip his shoulder.
"Don't worry about them Kakashi." Jiraiya let out.
"They're my students Jiraiya ... And the fact that I can't even see or hear about them, worries me." Kakashi stated as he slightly turned his head to see the sennin's face.
"The tension between Naruto and Sasuke is noticeable. But Naruto completely shuts out anyone who dares to come near him. I also had a little talk with the Uchiha boy, and I believe I got through to him." Jiraiya began.
"You believe?" Kakashi raised an eyebrow.
"I did what I could on my part to help both boys, now it's up to them to either heal old wounds, or reopen them." Jiraiya explained as he removed his hand and passed by the Jounin.
"Once this mission's over, I want details of everything that happened to Naruto and Sasuke while they weren't under my care." Kakashi warned the sennin as he soon joined in on the chase.
The sennin nodded as the two set out of Konoha, to begin their new A ranked mission.
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Training Grounds
Half an hour had passed since Naruto fell unconscious, while Sasuke remained by his side. The Uchiha, took the responsibility to drag his rival's sleeping body all the way back to his own house. He held Naruto by the waist, as the blonde's arm was wrapped around Sasuke's neck to help support his weight, while Naruto's head rested against his rival's shoulder.
"Why is he the only person who makes me feel these strange and yet old feelings ...?" Sasuke questioned himself as he continued, and walked slowly through the empty streets of Konoha.
---- 10 Minutes Later ----
Both boys were only minutes away from Sasuke's house, as Sasuke stopped a moment to check up on his rival. He slowly turned his head and found that Naruto was actually smiling.
"There's the idiot I know ..." Sasuke let out, as he prepared to continue when he felt the presence of another shinobi near them.
Without any hesitation, Sasuke reached within his holster, as his other hand was too busy carrying and supporting his rival. By instinct, Sasuke's Sharingan appeared, as he heard the sound of branches being broken while the shinobi's presence became more and more felt.
"I was wondering where you boys where." Iruka spoke out, as Sasuke retreated his hand form his holster, aware it was his previous teacher at the Academy.
"Iruka. Why are you here?" Sasuke coldly asked as he felt relieved it was but the Chuunin than an intruder, since lately, Konoha's defenses were down and seemed to have many intruders enter it as well.
"Would it be too much to ask you to at least call me sensei?" Iruka raised an eyebrow and walked closer to his two former students.
"I don't even call Kakashi like that." Sasuke firmly stated as he slightly turned with the unconscious Naruto in his arms.
"Naruto, I'm surprised you haven't jumped on me ..." Iruka started but quickly silenced himself as he noticed the boy the Uchiha held, was knocked out cold.
Iruka rushed towards both boys as he lifted the blonde's head and carefully examined him, making sure he wasn't in any danger or wounded, while Sasuke simply observed the Chuunin, and the way he acted around Naruto.
"Good, he only seems exhausted." Iruka sighed in relief, as he then turned towards Sasuke. "You'll have some explaining to do, once we put him in bed." Iruka warned the boy as he leaned down to grab Naruto within his own arms.
Sasuke stepped aside as the Chuunin completely lifted Naruto's body off the ground, while his arms supported his body, in the bridal way. Naruto's head rested against Iruka's chest, while Sasuke stayed close, in case he was needed.
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Sasuke's House
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
The moment they entered the house, Sasuke led the way to Naruto's room, and once they entered it, Iruka carefully walked towards the bed, while Sasuke leaned against the doorframe, his arms crossed, and his eyes focused on his rival and former sensei.
"Sasuke, could you bring me some water?" Iruka asked as he settled his favorite student on the bed.
As Sasuke left the room to get the water his former sensei demanded, Iruka tended carefully to Naruto. He laid the boy on his back, as he slowly removed the jacket and the Leaf headband.
"Here." Sasuke said as he had already returned from the kitchen and handed over the bowl filled with cold water and a small towels already soaked in it.
"Arigatou." Iruka thanked him as he grabbed the bowl and set it aside on the nightstand, next to his right side and the bed.
Naruto remained unconscious, as he only had his black ninja fishnet on, his sandals and his pants. Iruka carefully brushed the golden locks out of the blonde's closed eyes, as he took the wet towel and cleaned the dirt off of the boy's forehead.
"Could you take his sandals off?" Iruka asked as he continue to wash Naruto's face.
"Hn." Sasuke responded as he walked at the end of the bed.
Within seconds, both sandals were off, as Iruka removed the holster from Naruto's right leg. Iruka then grabbed the nearest chair and pulled it closer to the boy's bed side as he made sure to observe the Uchiha, without this one noticing.
"Did you two boys fight again?" Iruka asked, as he pulled the covers up to Naruto's neck, as he carefully placed the boy's arms above the rest of the sheets.
"Iie." Sasuke replied as he crossed his arms and leaned against the wall.
As Iruka placed Naruto's right arm above the sheets, he noticed how the bandages were no longer on it, he was a bit confused but then again, he would ask Jiraiya of it later.
"His chakra is really low ..." Iruka started.
"He was out ... training ..." Sasuke half lied, after all, even he didn't know the whole truth behind Naruto's sudden training and then throw himself down in a pit.
"Guess he simply over did it again. That boy, he always trains too hard." Iruka stated as he sat back against the chair, relieved.
"Again?" This had caught Sasuke's attention.
Iruka turned his head to notice that Sasuke was slightly curious about this fact, and decided perhaps he should have a little talk with the boy, it wouldn't hurt would it?
"Hai. Naruto trains hard everyday to become the best shinobi of this Village, after all his dream is to become Hokage." Iruka started as he felt the glares of the Uchiha, after all, Sasuke was the kind of person who wants to get to the point right away.
"Get to the point." Sasuke demanded.
"Did you know that the reason he trains so hard is because of you?" Iruka asked, which earned him the attention of the boy.
"Nani?" Sasuke let out, surprised by his former sensei's words.
"As you might have noticed, not many like to have Naruto around ... For Naruto, to see you so easily appreciated by the entire village, he envies you because of his harsh life. So that's why he trains so hard any chance he gets, so he could match the great Uchiha Sasuke, and if that happens one day, maybe ... maybe the adults and children would acknowledge him instead of ignoring him ..." Iruka's voice was filled with sadness.
Silence consumed the room, as for a second time, Sasuke felt somewhat sad to hear how Naruto's life seemed full of hatred and yet, how could that idiot continue to laugh?
"You know ... This isn't the first time he came home exhausted." Iruka continue and broke the silence, hoping it was a good idea to pursue the conversation with Uchiha.
"How many ..?" Sasuke asked, curious to the answer he would get.
"I stopped counting after 10." Iruka smiled. "Since he lives alone, no one would notice his disappearance and so I checked up on him when I could. Ever since he's part of Team 7, he trains himself harder than most genin would, and sometimes, until his chakra is nearly depleted. Sometimes he never found the strength to even come home and so, I'd go search on the training grounds. And there I found him, laying peacefully on the ground, covered in cuts and bruises." Iruka continued, both impressed and saddened by the information he was telling.
"That idiot ..." Sasuke commented as he evaded any eye contact with the Chuunin.
"Maybe, but you have to admit, his determination and his will to succeed is simply amazing, since he had a hard life ... The only regret I have is not being there often enough when he needed me ..." Iruka spoke as he brushed Naruto's cheek.
"No one could know ..." Sasuke let out, as Iruka raised his head, not hearing clearly what the boy said.
"Did you say something?" Iruka asked, curious to what the Uchiha had to say.
"When will he wake up?" Sasuke lied.
"He should wake up in a day or two. Just enough time to regain his own chakra." Iruka answered. "Jiraiya was right, Sasuke might show a cold exterior, but within, it seems Naruto managed to touch him a little ..." Iruka thought, as he remembered the small conversation he had with the Sennin, less than an hour ago.
============================================================================ ======================
FLASHBACK
---- Iruka's House, On The Porch ----
Iruka reached within his pocket for the keys to unlock his door, when he heard footsteps behind him. The Chuunin turned around as he recognized the figure who stood only meters from him.
"Coming home late aren't we?" Jiraiya stated and smirked.
"Jiraiya-sama, well I had too many papers to grade and since I'm not allowed to see Naruto yet, well I have much free time in my hands." Iruka commented.
"You know very well why Tsunade took that decision?" Jiraiya let out.
"Hai, but to me, his still my student." Iruka stated and grinned as he then moved to the next subject. "So why are you here?" Iruka asked.
"I'm here because Tsunade requested that I give you a message." Jiraiya said as he leaned against the fence and crossed his arms.
"Message?" Iruka was now curious.
"I'll be out of town with Kakashi for a few days, so Tsunade wanted to know if you could check up on the boys." Jiraiya stated.
"Out? OUT!? First of all you don't want either me or Kakashi to go see them and now you leave just like that!?" Iruka yelled out, as he was angered as he walked towards the sennin.
"We don't have a choice. It's a high ranked mission that requires both me and Kakashi with some Anbus." Jiraiya defended himself, as he heard how Iruka could be when it came to Naruto.
"How can a mission be more important than Naruto and Sasuke!?" Iruka demanded an answer as his fists clenched.
"Because Uchiha Itachi was spotted." Jiraiya let out as Iruka's eyes widened.
"Na ... Nani..?" Iruka let out as he calmed himself quickly upon hearing the name of the S class missing-nin.
"We finally spotted Uchiha Itachi, and there's a good chance he's after Naruto again. So Tsunade decided that we should intercept him before he reaches Naruto this time." Jiraiya explained as the Chuunin took a few steps back, shocked by this information.
"I'll watch over them, but with my job as a teacher I can't always be there to ..." Iruka started as he leaned against the opposite fence to where Jiraiya stood.
"Tsunade took care of that already. You'll only be teaching classes in the morning, and you'll be paid for the rest of the day since this is considered like a mission." Jiraiya informed him as Iruka looked him straight into the eyes.
"What about the morning?" Iruka asked, worried to leave Naruto alone, without anyone there to care.
"I've talked with that Uchiha boy, he'll keep an eye out on your brat." Jiraiya reassured him, or tried to.
"Uchiha Sasuke? Those two are rivals! And Sasuke isn't the kind to care about the others and ..." Iruka trailed of when Jiraiya quickly interrupted him.
"I've spoken to the boy, although he looks like a little bastard, he still has a heart underneath that icy armor of his." Jiraiya explained.
"It's understandable that he's cold to everyone, after what Itachi put him through ..." Iruka trailed off, as he remembered vaguely about the Uchiha massacre.
"And so you don't be surprised, I've revealed some information to Sasuke." Jiraiya spoke out as this earned him the complete attention of the Chuunin.
"You didn't tell him about the ..." Iruka couldn't even say the word.
"Iie, all Sasuke knows is that Naruto bears a great burden which only the Uzumaki clan held. I also mentioned to him about Naruto's parents dying the day of his birth ..." Jiraiya revealed as he continued, so the Chuunin would be prepared in case Sasuke asked questions.
5 minutes passed, as Jiraiya repeated his complete conversation with Sasuke to the Chuunin, and much to Iruka's surprise, the sennin was able to tell most of the truth in a very believable story, enough to satisfy Sasuke's curiosity for now.
"So now Sasuke knows more about Naruto's parents than Naruto himself ..." Iruka repeated the last phrase.
"Hai, but it was the only way to see, if that brat actually gave a damn about Naruto at all." Jiraiya explained his actions.
"Does he?" Iruka asked, since he somehow needed to know the truth.
"Under that icy skin of his, he does. For Sasuke, Naruto's a friend, one that doesn't view him like the sole survivor, or the last hope to get the Uchiha clan back. Naruto sees him as a friend and rival, and through their complicated relationship, they actually respect each other." Jiraiya explained.
"How does calling Naruto a dobe and a baka daily, show any respect for his rival and teammate?" Iruka asked as he walked closer to the sennin.
"Have you ever heard Sasuke call anyone else that? Or even pay slightly attention to anyone else? Even that Haruno girl doesn't get any special names." Jiraiya reminded the Chuunin.
"Even so ..." Iruka started.
"Listen Iruka, Sasuke can care, but after what Itachi did to him those years ago, it's not surprising at all that the brat keeps his feelings all bottled up." Jiraiya continued.
"I suppose ..." He replied.
"Listen, when other people are around, Sasuke won't show his emotions. So you have to learn to read him, and give him the information, although he verbally didn't ask for it. If you can do that, than perhaps those two can start healing." Jiraiya stated as he started to walk away.
"Where do you think you're going!?" Iruka shouted as he took a step towards the sennin's retreating back.
"I have a mission to accomplish. So please feel free to check up on them very soon." Jiraiya commented.
"Soon?" Iruka raised an eyebrow.
"I went there earlier tonight and the brats were nowhere to be found. So please take care of them until we return." Jiraiya stated before he vanished in the dark street of Konoha.
"He could have given me more information ... I'll have to talk to Tsunade tomorrow ..." Iruka told himself as he then decided he would head for Sasuke's house, and wait, if they hadn't arrived yet.
END OF FLASHBACK
============================================================================ ======================
Sasuke's House
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke was just about ready to leave when Iruka stopped him with a comment that caught the boy's attention.
"Are you his friend?" Iruka asked out of the blue.
"Strange ..." Sasuke let out, a small smile covered his lips as he turned to face the Chuunin who sat on the other side of the kitsune's bed.
"Eh?" Iruka not fully understanding what the boy was referring to.
"Jiraiya asked me the same question last night ..." Sasuke let out, a bit amused by the fact that his former sensei, now asked him the same question as the sennin.
"I see..." Iruka smiled as well.
"Although he's an idiot ... He's the only person that didn't expect anything out of me ... to him, I wasn't Uchiha Sasuke, the sole survivor of my clan, nor the number one rookie of the village ... to him, I was just a bastard, someone simply stronger than him..." Sasuke stated as he lowered his gaze to the sleeping blond.
"I take it that you consider him as a friend ..." Iruka gladly filled in the words Uchiha didn't dare to speak.
"Hn." Sasuke flatly replied as he walked out of the bedroom.
Iruka couldn't help but smile, Jiraiya was right after all, when he's either alone or not many are around the boy, Sasuke was more human than he let on. Iruka took one last glance at his former student, before he decided to join Sasuke in the kitchen.
"I'll come back tomorrow ..." Iruka whispered as he closed the lights and the door behind him, as he left.
---- Kitchen ----
Sasuke drank a glass of water as he noticed Iruka walking his way.
"Sasuke, I'll come back again tomorrow before I teach my classes." Iruka informed the boy.
"I thought Jiraiya was the one to observe us to make sure we don't kill each other." Sasuke reminded the Chuunin with a cold tone.
"Jiraiya and Kakashi won't be in the Village for a few days, so I'll be watching over Naruto when I can, although I would appreciate it if you could as well ..." Iruka trailed off, not sure if the boy would accept.
"Fine. That idiot will be asleep anyway." Sasuke stated as he placed the glass in the sink.
"Would you mind not calling him that?" Iruka forced a smile.
"Naze? He is one." Sasuke stated.
"Jiraiya was right, when it comes to Naruto, he puts up his defenses." Iruka mentally told himself.
"If you have nothing more to say, then please leave." Sasuke coldly told him.
"Sasuke, what do you know about Naruto?" Iruka asked, against his better judgment.
"I've already had this conversation with Jiraiya." Sasuke coldly replied as he began to walk towards his own room.
"Then you know how hard life has been for him?" Iruka let out as he watched the back of his student.
The boy didn't reply, but stopped any movements.
"I can only imagine how hard it was to loose your entire clan by the person you admired, then found yourself alone and the sole survivor of it, but you were somewhat lucky ..." Iruka trailed off, aware that whenever it came to the Uchiha history, Sasuke lost his cool.
Sasuke's fists clenched and trembled, as the Uchiha slowly turned his head towards the Chuunin's direction, his Sharingan already activated by the anger he felt of someone talking about his family's history, and saying he was lucky.
"Leave." Sasuke ordered with a deadly and cold tone of voice.
"Iie." Iruka stood his ground, which earned him a direct look into those red Sharingan eyes. "I didn't mean to offend you Sasuke. I'm just pointing out that you have those special memories of happiness, that at least you knew your clan, your parents before they were taken away from you ... For Naruto, he never knew or shared any special moments with anyone, because no one was there for him. He doesn't know what it means or feels like to have someone care and love him. All he knows is the hatred and loneliness ... That's why, compared to him, you were lucky to at least experience those things in life ..." He tried to reach out to the boy, hoping he would succeed.
Sasuke's intense glare faded away with each word the Chuunin spoke, as his Sharingan faded, to leave those dark blue eyes to stare at. The moment Iruka took a good look in those eyes, he noticed now that he had Sasuke's attention.
"He ... He couldn't have been alone all the time, he was just a baby, someone must have taken care of him till now." Sasuke stated as he turned around to face the Chuunin who stood a few meters away from him.
"He had someone from time to time ..." Iruka let out as he walked towards the kitchen table as Sasuke eyed him.
"Time to time?" Sasuke raised an eyebrow as he moved closer to the Chuunin.
"The apartment where he lives now, is the only 'home' he's known. The third Hokage gave it to him, while he had many caretakers. But as you must know, they hated Naruto with a passion, even when he was but a defenseless baby ... They never stayed around more than a week. And even so, they didn't really care for him ... Some even mistreated him ..." Iruka spoke with sadness.
"What ..." Sasuke let out, surprised by the new information he was told about his rival.
"Even at a young age, Naruto never felt loved but only hated, so when he turned 5 years old, The third Hokage let him live alone, but checked up on him from time to time, when he had no meetings and wasn't busy with his duty being Hokage." Iruka sighed as he remembered how he always watched Naruto from a certain distance.
"They hate him that much because of his parents?" Sasuke asked out of anger and curiosity.
"They hated him for something even he didn't know about ..." Iruka let out as he lowered his head, as though he was ashamed.
"Something he didn't know? The only thing Jiraiya told me was that the idiot didn't know about his parents." Sasuke spoke out as he walked even closer to the Chuunin, his eyes filled with worry and confusion.
"True, Naruto was never informed of his parents identity or what really happened to them, but we were asked to never reveal nor talk about the burden he carries as the last member of his clan." Iruka carefully picked his words, but it did help that Jiraiya had partly explained to him what he revealed to the boy.
"If this concerns the Uzumaki clan, why wasn't he told so?" Sasuke asked.
"Because, the burden of the clan can be as much as a gift than a curse he'll carry until the day he dies, unless it kills him first ..." Iruka trailed off
"How can it be both a gift and a curse?" The boy asked, more intrigued than ever.
"Since you've been on the same team with him, I'm sure you've seen how he heals quicker than anyone else, as well as his chakra. The boy seems to hold more chakra than the average genin..." Iruka let out, as he felt somewhat guilty to reveal such things to Naruto's rival, but perhaps it was the only way to get the old Naruto back.
"Hn ..." Sasuke replied as he leaned against the wall, arms crossed and his eyes closed, as he remembered the few moments Naruto showed such power.
"As for his curse, the curse mark you bare because of Orochimaru, is nothing compared to his. If Naruto overuses his chakra too much, that might be the end of him ..." Iruka said, as he knew that if the seal were to brake, Naruto would lose his soul to the Kyubi, although Sasuke wasn't aware of the complete truth.
"Does he know this?" Sasuke asked as he reopened his eyes.
"Gomen Sasuke, but there are some that I shouldn't mention, since this is Naruto's life." Iruka said as he felt as though he gave out too much information.
"Then why did you begin to tell me about it in the first place?" Sasuke shot back and glared at the Chuunin.
"Because ..." Iruka wanted to explain, but then he remembered Jiraiya words. "The boy isn't the kind to reveal his emotion but you can easily read him. Sometimes you have to say it for him."
"Answer." Sasuke demanded.
"It was actually stupid of me ..." Iruka changed his tone as he stood up and turned his back to the Uchiha. "I actually believed that perhaps if you knew a little more about Naruto, you would at least care about him ... Since he seems to be a bother, I'll ask Tsunade-sama if Naruto can come with me, so you can go back to your way of living." Iruka stated as he grabbed the doorknob and prepared to walk out of the house.
"Don't." Sasuke let out coldly.
"A change of heart?" Iruka's lips formed an evil smile, after all, this might be the only way to see if Jiraiya was right about how Sasuke would react.
"Iie, but if Naruto moved with you, you wouldn't be able to watch over him since you still need to teach at the Academy." Sasuke reminded him.
"You are correct. In any case, I'll pass by tomorrow morning before classes, so if you change your mind about ..." Iruka started.
"I won't." Sasuke firmly stated, much to the Chuunin's delight.
"Very well. I hope you forgive me for what I said earlier. Goodnight." Iruka spoke out as he walked out of the house and closed the door behind him.
Sasuke eyed the door a few minutes, before he felt the Chuunin was no longer present. The boy closed the kitchen's light and then headed for his rival's room.
---- Just Outside The house ----
Iruka closed his eyes and took in a deep breath, as he carefully masked his presence so the boy couldn't notice he was still around.
"You were right Jiraiya, deep down, under that cold armor of his, Sasuke does care for Naruto ... Because of what happened to his clan, he put up a barrier so he wouldn't feel that kind of pain anymore, just like Naruto ... Those two are more alike then they would want to admit ..." Iruka told himself as he heard Sasuke's footsteps that headed towards Naruto's room.
Iruka lost no time as he headed around the house and reached Naruto's bedroom window, and took a peek within, to see that the boy leaned against the doorframe, his arms crossed, but his eyes focused on the bed, where Naruto laid.
---- Inside Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke stared at the sleeping blond, as this one looked finally at peace, compared to earlier today.
"He looks peaceful, just like that time ..." Sasuke thought as he remembered how Naruto dragged his over abused body towards Gaara, until he appeared. Moments later, Kankuro and Temari appeared and left with Gaara, while Naruto passed out on the ground, a small smile appeared on his lips.
At that moment, Sasuke's eyes softened as he took one last look at his sleeping rival, before he left for his own room to get the much needed sleep.
---- Outside Naruto's Bedroom Window----
Iruka stepped away from the window, as he was able to catch that small moment of softness he noticed in those usually cold eyes.
"It seems that Naruto is in good hands after all ..." Iruka let out as he vanished from the Uchiha grounds, and left for his own house to get a good night sleep.
============================================================================ ======================
Somewhere ...
"Any word on Kakashi-san?" Itachi asked as he looked over to his partner.
"There moving and acting as you predicted Itachi-san." Kisame replied.
"Good, then we should move as well." Itachi stated as he beagan to walk down the path between the high trees.
"They'll have no idea what hit them ..." Kisame commented as he joined his partner's side.
"By the time they do, it will already be too late ..." Itachi added.
============================================================================ ======================
Sasuke's House
---- Sasuke's Room ---- The first rays of the sun came through the window and rested on Sasuke's pale face. Sasuke shifted in bed, until the bright light no longer blinded his sight, and then, the boy simply pulled the covers off his body and sat up in bed.
"Already morning ..." Sasuke let out, as he felt more exhausted then ever, with all the information he kept getting about his rival, a rival he thought he knew, but soon realized, that he knew nothing at all about him.
Sasuke sighed, as he decided it might be a good idea to check up on his rival, although he already knew that this one would still be asleep. And so, the boy decided to dress up in his usual dark clothing, as he attached his headband around his head and headed out for Naruto's room.
---- Hallway ----
Sasuke walked out of his room and headed towards the kitchen, since that was the only way to access the hallway that led to Naruto's bedroom. Sasuke was on his way o his rival's room when someone came knocking on his front door.
Knock Knock
"It must be Iruka ..." Sasuke let out as he headed towards the front door.
---- Front Door ----
Sasuke quickly grabbed the doorknob and opened the door to reveal indeed his former sensei that stood there.
"Ohayo Sasuke." Iruka greeted his former student.
"Hn." Sasuke replied as he stood in the doorframe.
"I came by to see if you changed your mind about ..." Iruka started but deep down he already knew the answer, although he didn't expect the boy to be somewhat so direct in his answer.
"Iie." Sasuke replied.
"Very well, then I'll ask that you watch over him for the rest of the day, since I have to meet Tsunade-sama and I still have my classes to teach." Iruka stated.
"Hn." Sasuke replied again, much to Iruka's disappointment.
"Well, I'll try to come back later tonight, unless you wish to remain alone with Naruto?" Iruka began.
"Iie, I have some training to do this evening, and I have no intention of bringing a sleeping baka with me." Sasuke coldly stated.
"Then I'll come back before night falls." Iruka stated as he turned around and began to leave the Uchiha grounds
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, surprised that his former sensei didn't even try to come in and check up on the boy, but then again, Sasuke could only wish the Chuunin would leave so fast, so he could check up on the boy, by himself.
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke stepped within his rival's room, as the first thing he set his eyes on, were the young blond that still laid unconscious. Perhaps a part of Sasuke, wished to have the loudmouth awake then sleeping. After all, if it wasn't for Naruto, Sasuke's life would be even more boring and he'd have to deal with Sakura's annoying attempts to seduce him and so on.
Sasuke snapped out of his thoughts, as he noticed how his rival was all tangled up in his own sheets, his hair all messed up and covered most of his face, even that peaceful smile Sasuke somehow liked to see.
"Even in his sleep he manages to get himself in stupid situations ..." Sasuke let out as he found himself staring at his rival once again.
As the minutes passed, Sasuke decided to walk closer and get his rival out of that situation. He lifted the covers off of the boy, and found that this one was curled up in a ball, as though he had a nightmare.
The moment Sasuke removed the sheets from Naruto's body, he shivered. Sasuke carefully placed back the covers on, properly, as the boy simply shifted back to sleep on his back, his hair still covered his face. Sasuke leaned forward as he brushed off the golden locks on Naruto's face, before he pulled back and leaned against the wall.
"Of all the people in the Village ... Why is he the only one capable to make me feel these old feelings ...?" Sasuke asked himself as he stared at the blond.
============================================================================ ======================
Somewhere ...
---- Camp Site for the Leaf Shinobis ----
The Anbus, Kakashi and Jiraiya rested at a secure location during the night to get their strength back, after all, they should soon encounter Itachi and Kisame according to the Sennin.
With the first rays of light appearing through the thick forest, the team took it as their cue, to wake up, and start moving again, while they still had a fresh trail on their missing-nins.
"We can only pray this mission doesn't end with any casualties ..." An Anbu commented to his comrades, hoping that the Jounin and Sennin didn't understand him.
Meters away from them, the Sennin and Jounin were within their own conversation about Sasuke and Naruto, although the Anbu's comment was still heard, as they both exchanged looks.
"I wonder if it was wise to bring them along ..." Jiraiya commented as he focused back on his conversation with Kakashi.
"Although they have yet faced Uchiha Itachi, they can still be of some help to us." Kakashi reminded the Sennin.
"I'm aware of that, but something isn't right about this situation ..." The sennin let out as he took a sip of his bottle, filled with sake.
"Hai... It seems too easy to track Itachi." Kakashi added as he read his favorite book.
"Even the best shinobis sometimes makes mistakes, or ..." Jiraiya began as he knew Kakashi would continue his own sentence.
"Or, there's a leak within Konoha and he's expecting us." Kakashi let out as he closed his book and discarded it within one of his pockets.
"My thoughts exactly." Jiraiya agreed.
============================================================================ ======================
Sasuke's House
---- Hallway ----
For the rest of the day, Sasuke remained in his house, cleaning up old things, as well as putting some away, after all he didn't want the blond to be curious about everything that concerned his family, but then again, Naruto never cared much from where Sasuke came from, to him, he was but a rival that he wanted to beat badly.
By the time Sauske finished, the evening was near as the sun began to come down, it's warm rays that filled the near empty house, soon turning to coldness. The boy sighed before he headed for his room to pick up his training gear when he heard strange noises that came from his rival's bedroom.
Thump
"What the ...?" Sasuke turned his head towards Naruto's bedoom.
---- Just Outside Naruto's Bedroom ----
Sasuke prepared to take a step forward when his rival's bedroom door suddenly flew wide open. The Uchiha raised an eyebrow, wondering if it could have been the wind that opened it, that was until he saw a tuff of blond hair that came out of it.
"Naruto ..!? How the hell can he be standing up?" Sasuke questioned himself as he stared at the blond boy with surprise.
Naruto barely had any strength as he clung onto the wood form the door frame, his vision already blurry, he had much difficulty to distinguish his surroundings. He took a few steps forward, and at some point he let go of his only mean of support, which resulted immediately into his downfall.
Naruto barely had time to realize that he fell when suddenly something warm was beneath him. Naruto raised his head and his vision started to clear up when he noticed that who or what ever was beneath him, they were on the cold floor.
"Sasuke ...?" Naruto let out as he noticed those dark eyes and hair.
"Who else would it be?" Sasuke shot back as he noticed how Naruto seemed 'out of it'.
Naruto realized that Sasuke had probably reached him before he fell face first on the ground and quickly, and as skillfully as he could, he moved away from the Uchiha's body and sat down against the nearest wall so he could remained at least seated. Sasuke got himself back up on his feet as he dusted his behind from the dirt.
"Gomen ..." Naruto let out as he avoided his rival's gaze.
"Gomen? Since when does he apologize? Especially to me?" Sasuke thought as he noticed Naruto being once more distant.
"How long have I been out?" Naruto asked.
"Not even a day." Sasuke bluntly replied as he stared at Naruto.
"Oh ..." Naruto let out as he lowered his head.
Both boys remained silent for the next few minutes, until Naruto got bored and annoyed by the current situation and decided that he should go back to his room. Naruto shakily stood up, but the wall next to him supported him greatly, as he continuously felt those dark eyes on his entire body.
"Can't you go annoy someone else today?" Naruto glared at his rival.
"Baka, I'm not annoying you, you can do that fine on your own." Sasuke commented.
"Whatever." Naruto replied as he desperately tried to get back into his room, after all, he didn't need to pick a fight with Sasuke right now.
"Here." Sasule let out as he moved towards Naruto.
"What the hell ...?" Naruto let out, surprised as Sasuke wrapped an arm around his waist and supported his body weight instead of the wall.
"It's obvious you need help right now." Sasuke stated as he helped the boy within the bedroom.
---- Naruto's Bedroom ----
Both boys walked in, although Naruto's body stiffened from being helped by his rival.
"Since when do you even care to help me? Aren't I always in your way? A burden to you and the rest of the team?" Naruto spat out, angered as Sasuke laid him in his bed.
"Baka, if I didn't care, why would I be here right now instead of training?" Sasuke spoke as he observed the blond.
"You don't have to lie to make me feel better ..." Naruto mumbled as he crossed his arms.
"Have I ever lied before?" Sasuke shot back.
Naruto's anger suddenly vanished on it's own, as the boy slowly lifted his head up, his eyes met those of Sasuke, and at that moment, he noticed that the boy was sincere, but also spoke the truth. A Uchiha never lied unless it was a mission and necessary for his survival.
"Why...?" Naruto asked, his eyes and tone of voice filled with pain.
"Listen Naruto, you might be a baka and a dobe, but you're still my teammate, my rival ... and my friend ..." Sasuke trailed off, since he wasn't use to say that word often, as well as meaning it.
"Friend ...?" Naruto let out, eyes widened in surprised.
Sasuke felt uncomfortable under the sudden gaze of his rival, as he shifted and turned his head to avoid that gaze, which Naruto quickly noticed.
"Listen ... I'll be out most of the evening to train since I stayed here all day. Iruka should be here soon enough and I'm sure he'll be happy to see you awake, so while I'm out, try not to burn my house down." Sasuke changed quickly the subject, since he didn't like the feelings that stirred within him when he spoke to Naruto in a normal conversation instead of the normal bickering and fighting.
"You're leaving?" Naruto questioned.
"I have to train dobe." Sasuke reminded the boy.
"You bastard don't call me that!" Naruto spat out in anger of his usual nickname.
Sasuke couldn't help but smile a little as his eyes softened on his rival. Naruto noticed this and looked over to the boy in front of him, confused to why he would smile.
"What the hell are you smiling about?" Naruto asked.
"It's been a while since you called me a bastard." Sasuke reminded his rival as he walked out of the bedroom, his back turned from his rival.
"Whatever." Naruto brushed it off and pouted.
"Have it your way, I'm going to train." Sasuke coldly stated as he got closer to the only door that kept him from leaving the room.
"Why are you leaving right now?" Naruto asked, confused of his rival's words.
"I just need to be alone. So I can think." Sasuke stated.
"Fine, then just leave." Naruto spat out.
"Dobe. Just get better." Sasuke demanded.
"What for? It's not like anyone will notice or care." Naruto spat out.
Sasuke stopped right under the doorframe, as he slightly turned his head enough to catch a glimpse of the blond. Naruto's head was a little low, but he could clearly see his eyes and lips. The small remark the Uchiha boy made, was enough to even get a small and true smile form the blond. Although the smile only lasted a few seconds, Sasuke had more than enough time to catch it.
"Naruto ..." Sasuke let out softly.
"Yeah?" Naruto waited for Sasuke's words.
"I care ..." Sasuke informed him as he walked out of the room, on his way to the training grounds.
"Sasuke ..." Naruto let out, surprised by the 'normal' conversation he had with his long time rival.
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Somewhere ...
---- In The Forest, Tree Level ----
The Leaf shinobis continued to move at a quicker pace, as they felt they were near their goal, each shinobi, lost within their own thoughts about their mission, while others more concerned about their younger teammates back at Konoha, and yet, they all remained focused on the task at hand, as well as their surroundings.
"Wait." Jiraiya let out loud enough for the team to hear.
The Anbus immediately jumped on the nearest and strongest branch to the sennin, while Kakashi joined the sennin and stood beside him, crouched like animals, observing what laid before them.
"Jiraiya-sama, do you see something?" An Anbu whispered.
"Hai, it seems that our targets are right below us ..." Jiraiya replied with a low tone.
---- Ground Level ----
Two distinct figures, dressed in a black trench coat with red imprints on them as well as a Chinese hat that covered most of their identity. They continued to walk as though they didn't fell the presence of the 8 Leaf shinobis, but made sure to leave no opening if there were to be an ambush or surprise attack.
---- Tree Level ----
"They've masked their chakra almost perfectly ..." Kakashi commented as he lifted his headband off his Sharingan eye.
"Hai, but they must know we're here already ..." Jiraiya commented as his eyes never left the two cloaked figures.
"What do you wish for us to do?" The Anbu leader asked.
"We face them. There is no other way, they already know of our presence." Jiraiya sighed as he stood up form the branch and jumped down to where the two Akatsuki members where.
"Jiraiya-sama!" The Anbu hissed, surprised and shocked by the sennin's action.
"Come, and be on guard at all times." Kakashi stated as he jumped down to the ground as well.
All 6 Anbus exchanged worried looks before they decided to obey and jump down as well.
---- Ground Level ----
The sennin and Jounin took point first, as the 6 Anbus remained only 2 meters behind them in case they need back-up, as well to watch their backs. The two dark figures stopped any movements, as the tallest one slightly turned his head to have a glimpse of what stood behind himself and his partner.
"Very wise for you to show yourselves than hiding..." He spoke out with a calm voice.
"Uchiha Itachi ..." Kakashi let out as his eyes met those red ones, the Sharingan.
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Hokage Tower
---- Tsunade's Office ----
After yet another pile of homework to correct, Iruka finally decided it migh be time to visit Tsunade to get a little more information on what was happening, as well as inform her of recent events that took place under the Uchiha's house.
"I guess you want some explanations am I right?" Tsunade asked but aready knew the answer.
"Hai, Jiraiya-san wasn't really specific about certain things ..." Iruka trailed off as he walked closer to the Hokage's desk
"You will be informed, but this stays within this room and is not to come out. Is that clear?" Tsunade asked, as she got out of her chair and walked towards the Chuunin.
"Hai." Iruka answered.
"But first, how are the boys doing?" Tsunade asked, still worried about Naruto's change of behavior.
"I don't know where I should begin ..." Iruka let out with a small smile.
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Sasuke's House
---- Kitchen ----
It had been an hour since Sasuke left the house, in need to have his personal space and to train, or so that's what he told Naruto. And so, Naruto had the empty and cold house all to himself for the next few hours, as well he would eat alone.
"Time for ramen!" Naruto cheerfully said as he opened the cupboards and picked out an instant cup of miso ramen.
Naruto boiled some water and after a few minutes, he poured the hot water within his bowl as the scent of miso ramen could be smelled throughout the entire house. Naruto walked over to the table and sat down as he took his chopsticks and was ready to eat, when suddenly, a thought crossed his mind.
"This is weird ... I kinda miss not having that bastard around ... I wonder why ...?" Naruto asked himself as he stared down at his bowl.
A few minutes passed as Naruto was lost within his own thoughts when he decided he should simply burry them in the back of his mind for now. After all, he didn't give a damn about Sasuke right? He was use to always eating and being alone. So why did it feel strange that when Sasuke wasn't around, he felt somewhat more sad then happy?
Knock Knock
Someone knocked on the front door which pulled Naruto out of his thoughts. He tossed the chopsticks aside as he stood out and made his way towards the front door, angry that Sasuke would come and annoy him at a time like this.
"Dammit Sasuke! I thought you said you wouldn't be back till late this evening!? And this is your damn house! Why the hell would you knock!?" Naruto yelled out as he rushed through the hall to get to the front door.
Naruto violently grabbed the doorknob, as the door flew wide open, and revealed a dark haired boy dressed in black. Naruto looked straight into those eyes, and found that a pair of Sharingan eyes, stared right back at him ...
TBC ...
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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.
Again sorry for the lateness but I've been called to work every day, including week-ends, and I had this projects due in for school which I haven't totally finished yet because I wanted to update my stories, so please FORGIVE ME for updating late and I hope you enjoyed it!
This chapter was 8 500 words! Be happy!
23 Reviews! I lost like 13 people when I worked really hard to get the fifth chapter out ... Now this was long and painful to write since I wanted something to happen, but I kinda screwed that up, they did talk, but without giving out too much of their inner feelings so I hope this wasn't too bad, but I promise, next chapter, you're gonna love it or you're gonna hate me for what I have planned ... Let me know!
Oh and sorry if Sasuke was a bit OCC but at least they're beginning to show less anger towards each other than before.
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REVIEWS
Yasai-chan : Tanks, I'm glad some really appreciate the time I put into the chapters of this story, also nice to know that I'm setting the mood really good and Kyubi wasn't OCC that much.
Dearest : I updated although the fact I was 13 reviews less made me kinda wait longer to even touch and write this chapter, so if it's short than usual sorry about that.
Ghostninja85 : Well Kyubi is evil without a doubt, but then again he's very much aware of what happens to Naruto's every day life. Then again, Kyubi wants to be free but if Naruto died, he wouldn't be free in the living world. I just portrayed him in a way that Naruto was unlike most humans that feared him or used him. After all, that's the side of Naruto that makes us love him so much. Indeed, Kyubi will slowly start to respect Naruto but his strongest will to still escape will plague his mind for a long time.
Death Phoenix / sachiroyurei / duochang97 / insanechildfanfic / YukaYuka / xxphatxbaybeexx / Shadow Eclipse / BlueAngelFire : Thanks so much for taking a minute to review! It's once again highly appreciated and I really APOLOGIZE for the late update!
Kuroi kistune : Yep, here when they teach you English they don't really teach you how to speak much of it even less understanding it. I remember how the teacher taught us. People always forgot so many words that even me knowing and speaking it very well had trouble to understand them. I was always stuck being the perfect one to understand it with idiots that waited for me to do all the work and they would get the good grade. Damn them ... Glad you enjoyed the chapter!
Rubymoon17 : Sasuke's starting to show he cares! Although he should actually show it when Naruto's not unconscious ... Oh well, Better luck with this chapter.
LydiaBlessing : Glad to know you'll read some of my other stuff! Thanks for reviewing!
Arbil : Thanks for reviewing, and in this chapter you noticed both Sasuke and Naruto weren't totally being asses.
Iceheart : I so didn't want Kyubi to be OCC like in my other 2 fics I wrote when I debuted as a writer here, so I'm glad that I succeeded!
Ash of Mine : A bit drastic but as I mentioned in the previous chapter, it was the only logical way in Naruto's mind to find himself face to face with the fox. Glad you liked it so far!
Gina Reed : I had like this down time for a little while but now I think I'm better although it's hard to update so many fics weekly, and with work and study it takes longer, so sorry for the wait!
Someone : It was the only logical way I found for Jiraiya to explain without revealing what the big secret was about Naruto having the nine- tails within him and the Hyuga was the best to compare since indeed Naruto never got a say in it, plus it was hidden from him until he turned 12. I only know that Kyubi has something planned, but what I have yet decided ...
Watermelon Gal : I haven't seen you around except for my other SasuNaru story. Glad that you like this fic too! Well you found that out in this chapter!
Yuka Sakura : I'm glad people found it sweet because Iw as questioning myself if I did the right thing of having Sasuke cry over an unconscious Naruto. But I'm glad to know I did well!
Foamy and Foolproof : I haven't seen you much on MSN lately, hope to see you soon and that you like this chapter as well.
C.M Aeris Queen of Insanity : Funny little story you wrote. But no worries, Naruto will be getting a bit better, although what I have planned for the next chapter won't be too good for his own sake ...
Ranoshiai : Glad you like the fluff, but I'm more happy to hear one of you actually liking the fact I'm not rushing things. So Thanks a lot!
Monkan : Monkan-san! Me happy to see your review since I love your stories too! If only I could get more great author's to review my stories ... Ahem, back to the review ... I'm so happy to know the next chapter will be out soon cuz that's my favorite and cutest story I read from you! Also happy that you like the story so far so I hope not to disappoint you.
Jinky kurapica : Glad you enjoy this fic and my others! Sorry for the long update but I had this writer's block on this story ... I thought hard about how to write and what to write but my fingers wouldn't type ... So hopefully this chapter was good.
Hebi : But Sasuke isn't the type to show his feelings to a conscious person ne? Glad you enjoyed the fic, and you reviewed! You're always my support with rubymoon and Ookami Kage.
Angelicyokai : I know I still make mistakes but less worse than when I first started as a writer.
Kirara351 : Indeed French is complicated to learn since everything is either feminine or masculine, but at least in English it's kinda neutral, so less difficult. Besides me writing a Naruto fic in French!? I wanted to buy the manga in the French language here in quebec and I skipped through it and boy was it awfully translated! It so sucked that I dropped the book, the expression, what makes every character themselves was destroyed by the translation! So instead I decided to buy my mangas and everything else at my supplier back in the US. So I'm glad that with time I got better at writing with the help of many comments and hints. So glad you enjoy the fic and hope to see your review on this chapter!
Trina : Thank you for letting me know what you thought about this fic! And I hope you enjoyed this chapter, although it was a bit short.
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Next Chapter :
No Previews, or else I totally ruin the next chapter's plot. Sorry. Only going to give you a hint that's there's a twist that concerns Uchiha Itachi. Feel free to try and guess what it is.
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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
