So little reviews in all so much time. I know that I'm a bit in the unpopular zone but seriously! Some recognition would be great right about now. Especially with the climax is coming up and I'm hoping to making it as exciting as many I'm sure have anticipated. Well don't worry 'cause the wait's almost over and possibility of a sequel just might be around the bend because no matter how hard I try…. I just can't stop!! And I don't think I can put a NarutoXSasuke lemon in chapter 14. It's disgustingly ironic to Valentines Day. And to me that's really kinda gross. No, no happenin'. I don't know about you but I hate that day, even though I found a fic or two that actually made that day bearable. Now I'm rambling. Anywho on with the story!

I don't own Naruto or any of its characters. I'm too much of a loser for that. But everything else is so totally mine.

"iii" speech

iii thought/telepathy

iii spirit speech

Chapter 14: Face-To-Face, & Heart to Heart?

Teaching Shukaku how to play cards was harder than anyone really expected but they were sure he'd get it sooner or later. Though it seemed it was the latter, not the former. "Okay I'm gonna go over this one last time: to play Gin Rummy in fours or so, is to do it in pairs. Which is pretty much what I'm not seeing here. Now as far as I know, we've what? Close to twelve pairs here playin' this? And how the hell that dog is holdin' his cards is beyond me but damn he's good for a first timer! What else does he play? Poker? Canasta? 'Cause I swear it's a conspiracy! Hey Gayle come help a man out will ya?"

"Sorry man. My shift starts in another ten minutes. If I'm not in position by then I'm gonna get a mighty wallop from the higher uppers and you know it." The dragon masked man said, grey eyes sending apologies to the stranded bartender to deal with competition he'd really had been asking for. Chevy could only curse as the man went through the door while chuckles and laughter drowned out his words of frustration and mock anger since it wasn't long that he was laughing himself. "Guess it's been a while since I dealt with so many first timers at once. Its time to pack up anyway, Ms. Loni's famous Catfish & Calamari Seafood Special should be underway about now."

"How do you know that?" Iruka asked as he helped pack up the cards, everyone else fixing tables and chairs to their proper positions. To be able to name a dish before it was served was a bit outlandish to say the least.

"If you've lived with that woman for as long as I have with a nose like mine, you just so happen to know what's what after a while. And that's just the beginning! Woo-ho!" he said, his voice betraying the hidden smile under the layer of clay that hid his face from all who looked upon him. He'd yet to remove the thing after all the times he'd been seen hanging around the place. Leaving the bathroom, standing behind the bar, his food disappearing than Kakashi's when no one was looking, surprising the perverted Jounin to no end. Finally someone just had to ask. "Hey Chevy?" Asuma barked.

"Hmm?"

"Don't you ever take that thing off? Doesn't it bother you?" he said gruffly. Chevy paused and stared at him before chuckling kindly at the man. "I take it off every now and again yes but does it bother me? Come to think of it no, most of the time I like it where it is."

"But why not take it off when you're with us? The only people in our world who wear masks like yours are Black Ops teams and ANBU personnel. Why do you guys wear 'em like you do?"

"That's a good question my friends, a good question indeed. Its usually a means of identifying you on the battle field, in the time of your demise as well as for pretty much everything else. Our masks are very much for military personnel only since some highly regarded warriors of the past have been known to have them to hide their true selves until they saw fit. It's been that way ever since. That and the markings normally act as a means to see what rank and element you are, nothing more. I wear mine since my face isn't really worth looking at anyhow." He said with a shrug, finishing his end of the work to walk back behind the bar to the door. It swung with a slight creak in the old hinges as he passed through, kitchen sounds leaking past him as he did. His answer hung in the air as they awaited him to come back with plates and utensils. Other than Gayle, the Ice Bear and Kakashi, Chevy was the only one to not remove his mask in public. Kazuo's face was still unknown since he hadn't come back yet from taking Naruto into the Ice Bear's territory. And only Iruka had ever seen Kakashi's face and that still irked Team 7 to no end.

Returning as expected with the dishes and Tupperware, Chevy set them on the counter before skillfully leaping over it to pick them up and set them down on a nearby table. His demeanor was almost depressed in comparison to a few minutes before. Silently doing his part of the chores Chevy ignored the curious stares he was once again receiving, setting a place at each spot he knew people would take. Avoiding their gazes he returned to beyond the door, letting it swing shut behind him. Just as someone was about to say something, the front door swung open to reveal the Twins, frosty and kicking ice off their sneakers, Ozzy looking angrier than he ever did. "What happened to you two? You look like you got full blast of somethin'." Kurenai had to say as the two fell into a pair of chairs, Evan looking a bit frostbitten.

"You bet we did. We--. Hey who's that? And when the hell did he get here?" Ozzy growled as he spotted Shukaku sitting in a corner next to Gaara and his siblings, jumping slightly to grow a bit nervous. Um… I—

"Oh leave it Bro. It's been a long day and I'm too tired to keep you from killin' somebody 'k?"

"Humph. Whatever." He growled as their heads hit the table top with a thud. Of course this told a certain landlady that her nephews were home. "BOYS! You in there?" her voice practically screeched from the kitchen. They groaned in reply, bringing the woman to come into the room, her frying pan in hand. "You're late. AGAIN! How many times do I have to tell you to come home on time every time? I swear you two are actin' like your old man when he—"

"HEY! Shut it lady. I'm too pissed to mess with you and your fucking rants about people we never met so just shut it."

"Brother—" Evan said weakly only to get cut off harshly.

"Don't you 'Brother' me! I've had it! I'll eat later. 'Night to the lot o' ya." He roared, stomping upstairs, making them flinch when a door slammed. Ms. Loni looked astonished, Evan just sat in his chair, looking sad, not wanting to say anything. One could swear that despite his age he looked like a small child about to bawl his eyes out. But he just sat in silence, staring at the table in acceptance to the event that refused to end. "Auntie… do you… do you need any help in the kitchen?" he seemed to whisper, he eyes still burning holes into the table top as he sat waiting for the reply to come. "If you will then yes." Her voice was hesitant at best, not wanting to go overboard again. Evan got up from his seat, the wood creaking from lack of weight on it. Lilith appeared next to him as he went, her human form guiding him to the door behind the bar, Ms. Loni following not far behind as Chevy passed them with more dishes. Shukaku couldn't help but gasp at this. A fellow spirit like him; coming out of nowhere to assist the young man in his walk, but why? He was fine earlier. Then he saw it. The boy had gone blind somewhere during the fight but how could something like that happen without just cause? If he was fine earlier, then how did he get to be blind in so little time? What just happened? He asked, his voice curios and clearly confused. Chevy was the one to answer the spirit.

"He's been that way for years. Don't worry he'll be okay. According to him it comes and goes. Doesn't know what causes it though. Even Lilith is confused on why it happens. All she can do is help him get through each one that comes, either that or his brother does."

Lilith? Who is Lilith?

"That would be the girl you saw helping him to the kitchen, they should be back in here sooner or later. Ah speak of the devil! Hey Evan, what's got your brother all tied in a knot?"

"Oh he's just mad because we nearly froze our asses off in some snow storm that's kickin' in out there. You try and get him early when a big wall of white slaps you in the face. Not funny my friends, not funny." He said with a smile, his eyes having cleared up to where he could walk on his own. "A short one today?"

"Surprised me too! That and Lilith went to help keep the fires going for Auntie. Seems some of the drafts are tryin' to make us go hungry." The smile spread to a grin as his innocent gaze went back to Shukaku. "So who's the new guy? Never seen him before I left. Just come in like us?"

"Nah that's Shukaku. Gaara's new partner and old nightmare."

I resent that last one. The sand raccoon said with a growl, sneering at Chevy as he laughed at him. "Cool it there hot shot. No need to get rowdy. Evan's just the real curious ones is all. No need to get all fired up over a simple answer to a simple question."

Hmm. I guess that's reasonable.

Evan broke the uncomfortable silence after a few minutes, his voice almost sounding far off even though his face was oddly happy about something. "Strive against storm, dive down seeking/ A strange homeland, shrouded by the sea. / In the grip of war, I am strong when still;/ In battle-rush, rolled and ripped/ In flight. Conspiring wind and wave/ Would steal my treasure, strip my hold/ But I seize glory with a guardian tail/ As clutch of stones stands hard/ Against my strength. Can you guess my name?"

"Oh shit. Wait let me think here. I think I heard this one before but I got it wrong. Dammit! What was it?" Chevy snapped in frustration, as Evan looked pleased at the man's confusion. Shaking his head trying not to giggle Evan walked back into the kitchen to hold the door as Ms. Loni and Lilith carrying platters of food, soon followed by a clone of Evan delivering containers of milk. "What's going on in here?" Ms. Loni asked as she set her load down on a table, looking between her grinning nephew and the confused dog masked man. "He brought that damn riddle up again and I still don't get it! How about a hint huh kiddo?"

"Nuh uh. Must get it without help. You love to forget the rules don't you?" the grin widened as Chevy continued to rack his brain for the answer. Deciding to make things worse Evan started another one. "Bright as diamonds/ Loud as thunder/Never still/ A thing of wonder."

"Hey no fair! I haven't figured out the first one yet!" Chevy whined as Evan nearly cackled at the man's suffering, ignoring the two figures that came through the door. It was the legless man and the one armed companion from when they went on the food run. "What's goin' on in here Ms. Loni?"

"Hello boys. It's just Evan and his riddles again. Chevy's been given two and he still can't answer them yet."

"Oh really? Shoot 'em our way man."

Evan smiled wider, his glee for someone to confuse showing in his eyes. "Strive against storm, dive down seeking/ A strange homeland, shrouded by the sea. / In the grip of war, I am strong when still;/ In battle-rush, rolled and ripped/ In flight. Conspiring wind and wave/ Would steal my treasure, strip my hold/ But I seize glory with a guardian tail/ As clutch of stones stands hard/ Against my strength. Can you guess my name?" he repeated, his tone eerily happy as he recited the riddle for the newcomers to decipher. Moving to allow his passenger to set himself into a chair, the one armed man rubbed his chin with his only hand. Light features, hunter green eyes and black hair made up this man's appearance as his monkey mask hung from his right hip. "Hmm, I don't think I've ever heard this one before. What do you think Finley (1)?"

"Not sure but I think I can give it a shot. Would the answer be anchor?"

"Damn! And to think I could keep this guy guessing! Good job Fin!" Evan said but the smile wouldn't disappear and his voice was filled with mock disappointment while the legless man smirked at him. Amber eyes with honeysuckle hair that was slightly spiked, his gentle but firm features glowed in the light. A scar at the corner of his mouth stretched to end somewhere near his neck, its color almost ghastly but a little invisible at certain angles. Rabbit mask strapped to his shoulder, thoughtfully rubbing his chin and turning his gaze to the ceiling, Finley could only smile as he said. "Well I'm not that great you know. I was but not these days."

"Ah but he's modest which makes him even more magnificent than before huh Auntie?"

"I have to agree with you on that one Ev my boy. Only our Finley can be truly magnificent and not let it go to his head." She said slyly while Evan let out a feigned cry of protest, trying to keep the smile from showing itself on his face. She only ruffled his hair as they sat to eat, the clone long since disappeared as Chevy searched his pockets for a fresh deck of cards in the hopes of actually winning a few games for once in his life. Some courses and many rounds of various card games later, Ozzy had returned with a less fouler mood but a look on unending anger plastered on his face while taking on a very happy Evan, with a devious aunt, a sly Finley, a calm Chevy, and recently introduced and currently the card champion of the hour, Nunzio (2) who was probably fingering another winning hand, his smile matching that of a monkey's almost too perfectly. A pause had come over the game as the ninja group watched, so far Evan and Nunzio had been going head to head, having an even number of wins and Nunzio needed one more win to gain the lead. Ozzy or Chevy won on occasion, with Ms. Loni losing on more often than anyone at that table could care to count. Her timing was lousy, her hands were weak and hardly did anything to so much as scratch her nephews or the other boys and she was losing almost everything she had to bet. Luckily it was a fair and reasonable rule that the lost items be returned to be bet again else where, all depending on whether or not it serves the winner in any way. She'd even lost her demonic, pain serving frying pan. At that moment, bets were being made. "Okay let's see here: I've got some shoe polish, a scrub brush which is nice and greasy from either shoe polish or some other chore. I also got some scales from a real nasty earth dragon I took on once."

"Earth dragon scales? You, old Finley took on an enraged earth dragon? Don't you need some real strong legs to get away from a mother like that?" Chevy scoffed as others chuckled, but Nunzio merely waved it aside with a sincere look. "I saw him do it, before we became partners you see. This thing was real nasty. Big too. Nasty thing it was. Its drool probably makes a river flood and a pond to overflow this thing was so big and ghastly. Nearly pissed me' self. Monstrous animal. Nearly tore him apart but that's before he lost his legs to some bastard with an even nastier attitude."

"Are dragons always that ferocious? I mean there aren't any around here are there?" Choji said with a shiver, munching on his food nervously. This question was given some hearty laughter and foolish grins. "No not 'round here. Only the wild ones like the one I took on are really any danger to those who are fool enough to anger them or go into their territory by accident. My reason was the latter."

"I thought you said you were passing through there to find somebody!" Nunzio declared, sounding indignant and eagerly curious with this tale probably different than the one he'd heard before. "I was! And I was using that area as a shortcut, got attacked by a pissed off dragon that wants a piece o' me for a reason I know nothing about and next thing I know I'm bleeding like crazy my left shoulder blade and my right leg (when I actually had the bloody thing) conveniently allowing me to bump into your sorry one armed ass thus saving us both from the creatures' bone crushing feeding frenzy! Thank you very much now lay down your bit before I take these back."

"Okay, okay don't get the breeches you still have in a knot." He snickered, trying to keep a straight face and some form of seriousness. "I've got some Bomb Beetles, Silly String cans in various colors, a few Exploding Ink cartridges along with some stacks of note paper to use 'em on. Ozzy, what's in your stash?"

Thinking this over as he searched his pockets, he dropped his findings on the table. "Some bamboo brushes, all varying in size, cheat notes and strategy plans for escaping class or a prison--."

"You kept those? I thought you threw those out." Evan said, giving him a look of surprise and confusion.

"It's either them or those brats Auntie looks after nearly everyday. And I think I'd rather send this info on to a fellow officer and not some snot-nosed pipsqueak that just wants a little vacation from a class that could save their ungrateful asses. Can I continue?"

"Yeah sorry."

"Now then, I also have some tiger teeth from that time me and my brother here went east somewhere, salt water toffees and last if not least, a Raven blade I fought to have by beating the shit out of the owner. Bastard took nearly three days to kill but I showed him who was boss."

"I remember that fight! He kept on getting up too, the lowlife. I thought you two would collapse sometime in a week after all that fuss. But you finished early didn't you?" Chevy said, the smile heard loud and clear in his voice.

"There was no fucking way in all o' hell I was gonna be out there getting pushed around by some brainwashed pansy for a week! Put up a good fight though, I'll admit to that." Ozzy growled almost to himself, glaring at the wall while Evan put down his bit.

"I've got some vials of spell powder, each a different color and purpose, and… I'm not really sure how old these things are but I'm puttin' 'em down." The group stared curiously as Evan let the clacking items fall onto the table. They looked like river rocks, smooth and vibrant in colors stripping across the rocks clashing with the darker color of the main parts. All of them were glistening in the light, surfaces smoother than expected, as though polished to appear forever wet from fresh river waters. "Where'd you get those bro?" Ozzy inquired, looking at the stones in awe.

"Not sure but they were in my pockets. Almost like someone put 'em there and I definitely don't remember pickin' 'em up and puttin' 'em in my own pocket neither." Evan looked and sounded confused, face marred with deep thought. Something was bothering him somewhere in the back of his mind but managed to break it away from his train of thought. "Well they're pretty good for gettin' someone in the head with should you have good aim."

"Of this I can imagine 'cause I think you hit me with one once." Chevy growled as he started to search his own pockets for things to bet. Evan tilted his head at the dog man, but seemed to let it slide with a curious look at his brother who simply shrugged. "What you got Auntie?" Ozzy said looking at the older woman while Chevy tried to find collateral. Thinking this over herself she started her own search for betting means. "Some travel spices good for livin' up some dishes on the road, skinning tools for wild animals or disobedient nephews," the twins gulped nervously, trying to hide behind their cards. "And recipe cards should you miraculously forget how to cook somethin'."

"What about you Chevy?" Evan said, looking at the dog-masked man as his search continued. "Yeah Chevy what's the holdup?" Finley said from his end of the table as all eyes turned to the bartender expectantly. The pocket search became successful as he grunted triumphantly, placing his findings on the table. Curious the collected group behind him made a grab for what appeared to be books of some kind. Kiba being the one to grab them read the titles of each one. "Summoning for Suckers: The Guardian's Guide to the Spirit Realm, The Healer's Hand: Medicine Methods for the Average Guardian, Navigation for Nimrods: To Get There and Live, and… Betting for Bozos? Gambling like A Guru? What the hell kinda book is that?"

Grabbing the books from the boy's hands Chevy stuffed the last one back into his pocket before Ms. Loni could get a hold of it. "Something to make sure that I don't forget how to keep these idiots I work with from killing themselves or each other for that matter. Besides Ozzy over there can't read a map worth crap!"

"Oh sure blame the guy who was up all night trying to study while his insane brother decided to make as much noise as possible not allowing me to 1) get any rest whatsoever, 2) fail the test and barely pass the class and 3) get beat the shit out of not only my aunt but my teachers and the headmaster all in the same fucking day! So who's complainin' now?" he nearly roared, his old anger arising once again to make a large percentage of the audience shiver from the intensity of the emotion. Taking a few calming breaths Ozzy went back to glaring a flaming hole into the far off wall while Chevy put the three books still at hand into the middle of the table. "Nothin' else there Chevy? You sure you don't have somethin' else to bid while all's still open?" Nunzio asked preparing to deal the next hand should anyone want to trade cards. Thinking this over, the dog man nodded and replied. "Yeah I just might have somethin' to offer you guys and gal."

"So? What you got?" Finley said, sounding demanding before the others shushed him up. Thankful for the silence he almost reluctantly continued. "Do you guys know why I wear my mask all the time?"

Negative responses flooded the air as he asked. "Do you want to know why?"

"Sure if you want to tell us. It's your call." Evan said kindly, laying his cards face down patiently waiting for the man to go on with his tale. Reassuring nods made themselves known wherever he looked and so with a sigh, he continued. "It's because of what happened before I first joined the Academy. I remember it like any other day."

--Flashback—

Golden rays of sunlight brought a heavenly glow to a field of wheat and grass, a farmer's home ground. Birds flew over singing their songs, out of tune music to the ear that if bonded with the imagination created a symphony of nature's instruments. A teenage sized figure walked calmly through the sea of golden stalks, strutting confidently as he went with a pack on his back. It was close to sundown as he approached a farmhouse surrounded by loose chickens and a woman hanging laundry on a line on one side of the house. Auburn hair twisted and turned with the wind, held back in a small tail to rest between her shoulder blades, her skirt flapping along with it. Bluish purple eyes gazed kindly in any direction as gentle fingers worked wet cloth onto the line. Turning in his direction she waved smiling, dropping her work to meet him halfway as she called into the house. "He's back! Time to collect."

A middle aged man came out of the house, grey eyed and brown haired, was followed by a six to seven and a half year old girl wearing a night gown. Her hair golden like the sun, eyes wide and innocent, violet in color. The girl ran to meet the older sibling, jumping into his arms as he laughed at her enthusiasm. "Hey there sleepy head! When'd you get up huh Kiku (3)? Ten seconds ago?"

She only punched him in the stomach, making him grunt as he laughed as she pouted. "You were supposed to take me with you! Why didn't you?"

"Can't exactly take the little lady of the house to town is she isn't even awake to do so now can I? Besides you still need the rest from that fever you had." Straightening he turned to the older pair. "I managed to see Dr. Croniac today. Got some more medicine for her to take just in case it comes back. And he said he'd come by for a daily checkup if I couldn't get her there in the next couple o' days."

"That's good to know. Come on now young lady. It's time you got inside." The woman said kindly but commandingly, holding out an arm to lead Kiku inside, making her pout further, leaving the two males in the yard. "You did good son. Got home before the sun went did."

"Thanks Dad. I thought you'd never say that." Sarcasm dripped from his words as the two walked slowly toward the house, the man chuckling heartily as they did. "Just like my brother. Always the joker. Now were you telling the truth about the doctor?"

The teenager's face slackened to a sad expression, staring uncertainly at the sea of gold he'd walked across, grey eyes darkened by stirred thoughts. "Might get worse. Might not. That's all he said about it and that's all I could get outta him. Sorry Dad but I tried—"

"You did your best son I know. But it seems it wasn't good enough to get the world to work the way we want it to. Now we just need to tell your mother." He paused, scratching his chin in thought. "Come on inside son. I bet you're tired and I could use a good game of cards."

"You never quit do you?" a grin had appeared on the sad teenager's face as he moved to meet the man's pace. "Will Mom be joining us?"

"No she's to 'noble' for cards." He snickered as they passed through the door into the kitchen, wiping their boots on the carpet. "I heard that Emory (4)! And if you two start another fight I'll let you both starve tonight." The woman mockingly roared as she smirked, walking from counter to counter with a plate filled with freshly heated food. The teenager sat as he let the pack rest on the table. Plenty of time for scourging through the treasures of the day later now was the time for rest. "Here you are Chevy dear. Can't let my only son go to waste after a full day's walk now can I?"

"I don't know Gwen (5), with the stomach like his and that hard head he stuffs all that good food you make into I doubt he just might actually be our son. You don't know! He could be some boy that just comes back everyday just to eat!" the men laughed while the woman playfully smacked him on the shoulder, not helping but laugh herself. "Very funny Dad, very funny."

"So how was town today Chevy? Meet anyone worth our whiles?" the woman said mischievously as she sat down herself to watch her son eat. Chevy nearly choked on his food as he looked up to stare at the woman. "Mom! Isn't that a bit too accurate?"

"Yes Gwen don't rush him! If he's goin' to find someone of his likin' it's gonna be without your matchmakin' and such to mess things up with! Besides, it's his decision isn't it? Let him choose whom he wants to woo and what not. And I think its time for that card game eh son?"

"All right but I set the standards: best two outta three wins gets to be chore less for the rest of the week. And the losers have to do all the chores or they gotta learn how to play cards real fast!" Chevy laughed, the two adults cracking up with him. Four games later Chevy had two wins while his father had two wins with the woman, as the referee to make sure things didn't get too wild. The fifth game was underway and so far there wasn't any sign of letting up. The kitchen window was open to let crickets voice the temperature while stars twinkled in the unbroken field of black, bugs held back by an old screen. A candle lit up the room; the contents of the pack collected and stored away, the dinner plate put away and the table cleared to give way to cards and old chips carved of bits of wood found here and there. So far it'd been a tough match and old Emory nearly got out of control with anger at the fact he was losing to his sixteen-year-old son. The little girl had come down to see the commotion but nearly went unnoticed, as Chevy couldn't stop laughing; Gwen was too busy calming Emory and crickets sang on above the racket that was coming from the kitchen.

Kiku having been sent back upstairs, the father calmed and the mother watching as the son examined his last hand of cards; about to lay them down, his ear twitched, making his head straighten up as he snapped his attention to the window. The two other occupants were about to ask what was the matter but he only held a finger to his mouth, listening confused. The crickets had gone silent and the wind wasn't blowing its cool air into the room anymore. Something was wrong. Living out in the middle of nowhere was hard enough without the locals know just what you really were but this wasn't natural at all. Ears slowly changing, nose stretching, Chevy transformed into the mighty canine he proved to be. Staring shocked at this easy action, the two adults sat frozen as their son changed into a dog right before their eyes, cloth giving way to fur, bones popping into different positions. Claws clicked on the wooden floor as Chevy now the dog went to the sink to put his front paws on the edge to peer out the window, nose twitching, ears erect and listening. Pushing off he suddenly rushed to the door where he stood barking and growling, whining and digging at the floor. "Chevy?" the woman asked as the two watched the dog that had once been their son. The couple had long since stopped using their abilities, their daughter no showing any signs of having them either but this was almost too much. Their son suddenly able to do what they dared not was unheard of.

No answer except more clicking of dog nails, sniffing and barking at the door, the silence of the crickets more disturbing than it should've been. Creaking wood announced Kiku coming downstairs again, newly awakened by the commotion at the door. Staring wide-eyed at the canine pacing nervously at the door, Kiku couldn't help but ask. "Where's Chevy? What's going on? Where's Chevy?"

"Chevy dear, how did you do this? What's wrong?" the woman asked again, the dog still moving to and fro in front of the door, scratching and whining almost as though he had to go. A familiar voice finally resounded in their heads as the dog paced and barked some more, growling angrily at the door like it had offended him. Don't know but something's out there. Get Kiku and get upstairs.

"What--?"

No time! Go now! Chevy growled again, this time not at the door but at them, forcing the couple up the stairs after their confused daughter, turning back only to see a paw change into a hand in order to open the door and let himself out into the black. They could only wait in the silence as padded feet scurried off into the distance, the sound of dirt and grass being uprooted as he went. Suddenly barking again, they could hear Chevy taking something on that growled all the same, the thump and thud of bodies hitting the ground with bone breaking force enough to make the family flinch with each pound. A pained yelp filled the air but was followed by a yellow spark of light, making the opponent hiss and scurry away while another set of feet ran back to the open door. Chevy now back in human form, burst through the door to slam it shut behind him. Leaning on it, his back to them, he held it closed with both hands, his back sagged and heaving. "Chevy?" the woman said again, daring to go down the stairs again to approach her only son. Chevy lifted his head slightly in recognition to her voice as he fell to the floor gasping for air, still facing away from them as he did.

Kiku was the first to reach him, taking his arm to pull him into a sitting position with her father helping support the teenager's deadweight. What they saw was shocking, too shocking to almost be incomprehensible. What was there would change everything they knew and loved like no tomorrow.

--End Flashback—

Shock rippled through he group as Chevy's mask was gently placed on the tabletop amidst all the other bids, eyeless holes facing the ceiling emotionlessly staring at the wooden boards. All anyone could do was stare at his face, trying not to look too immodest for the man's sake. Gayle having walked in somewhere in the middle of the story tried to shake himself awake, turning between the beer in his hand to the sight before them plain as day.

--Flashback—

Three long scratches bled like rivers from his face, tanned smooth features marred forever by the prize only rough fights in harsh battles could give in return for participating in such things, scars that would forevermore brand him a survivor of the ordeal. Heaving breaths whistled past partially closed lips as sharp grey eyes turned on the three members of the house. But something was wrong with his eyes. Instead of the usual human appearance, they'd become different, cat's irises then that of a dog's showed themselves in those all too familiar eyes the three had seen everyday. Ignoring this fact for now, his father dragged the slack form back into the kitchen to put him back in the chair he was in earlier while his mother looked for the first aid kit. "What happened Chevy? How did you do that?" his father asked, shaking the boy awake as he nearly fell over in shock.

"I don't know." He whispered, sounding faint and tired. "I just did. And it was so easy. I just don't know how--."

"Shush you. You've done enough as it is." His mother clucked as she opened the white box to get cotton balls and alcohol. Dabbing the wound with gentle hands, Chevy hissed in pain but tried not to move as the healing properties kicked in. "Mom? What just happened to Chevy?" Kiku whispered, sounding like she was about to cry, seeing her only invincible brother like this was heart shattering. "Just something your father and I used to do all the time, that's all dear. Now my question is how he learned to do it in the first place." The woman said, sending a questioning glare at her husband. "I'm just as confused as you are Gwen! How did you do that son?"

"I don't know, I just thought about it and it happened. Itai! That hurts!"

"Hush then son. I'm almost done." The woman said as she took a wet clothe to his face, washing away the dried rivers of life's waters. Chevy only grunted then hissed when she touched another delicately sensitive spot. "They're still out there. I need to go fight them off. They could burn the barn, destroy the crops—"

"Not until we know exactly who they are and why. You're not staying here until you explain how you did that." She said, sounding stern, hands on her hips as she stared at her son, awaiting an answer. Trapped in the spotlight Chevy finally sighed and caved. "I was on my way to town a couple o' days ago and I just… so happened to see a rabbit that would make a good meal. But I lost sight of it and I kinda decided to go after it. It took me a few hours to find it but I noticed that I could see farther, I could hear better and I could smell it even though I couldn't exactly see it."

"So that's how you got that good snatch of meat last week! You see Gwen! I told you one of them would figure it out eventually! And he did it so well and without guidance!"

"But who's out there? And how can they be strong enough to nearly defeat an untrained Guardian in the first place?" the look of worry marred her features, and the situation they were now in wasn't helping. Before anyone had the chance to answer, a mighty force powerful enough to almost break it pounded the door. It was repeated, the wood threatening to give way. Hesitation wasn't an option as Emory grabbed Kiku, yelling for Gwen to get Chevy and head for the upper floors, even though he was heading to the back door. Distracting the attackers to think they went upstairs proved to be the only thing they could do as Emory kicked the back door open before rushing through, changing into a puma as he did. Kiku could only hold on tight as her father also changed shape, her mother transforming into a mighty eagle while carrying her wounded brother. Far off behind them angry voices yelled their frustration into the black night, the moon and stars the only witness to the stables, the barn and the house bursting into hungry flames, never disturbing the now slivery sea of wheat and grass.

Hiding in the cornfield as fiery orange contrasted with the night blue of the sky, smoke rising with bits of spark, ash, and close to twenty years of happy memories falling to the ground in flame. All that they knew was destroyed, and the culprits eventually left angry and confused on where their victims disappeared too. The three scratches became scars, a reminder of the past as he and Emory set out to find some decent food other than the ripe corn to eat and in the hopes of seeing people from town noticing the smoldering wreck that was now their house.

People did come to help, only to find the place in ruins and the residents in their own fields, the son with battle scars, the father looking morbid, and the mother trying to pull her daughter out of shock. Rebuilding all three structures would take much out of everyone's time to harvest, but an unknown tragedy had hit a local family dead on and the cause was still far from being known to those only just coming across the scene. In thanks the family of four allowed the helpers some percent of their crops for only half the price they were usually sold. Grateful to this, people assisted as best as their skills would allow. Come next spring as the sea of gold rose again to shiver and wave with the wind, tragedy prepared to strike again.

It'd taken Kiku some time to get used to her shape-shifting, element bending family members, taking on the cat-like form of her father and the pride of a bird of prey that only her mother's influence could bring. Chevy proved different since genetics brought out a different set of abilities from deep in the family history. Taking on his divergence despite everything else, catching a good meal proved faster and more successful than ever. But the three marks remained no matter what anyone did to them in order to rid them of the young man's face. He proved easier to spot in a crowd, the whispers that followed him as he passed through the streets made it hard to discern whether or not if he was famous for what he survived… or what he'd received trying to protect what was his. Despite his age his face hardened considerably to make up for lost dignity in response to his newfound popularity amidst the townspeople. Walking through town one day in search of decent supplies, looking at some new stalls full of goods worthy of purchase Chevy noticed the sound of multiple sets of feet matching his own. He'd been in town for hours and now he was faced with the thought of being spied on. Having memorized nearly everything about the town and who lived in it, he had reason to guess just those giving in to curiosity were following him either for questioning or the simple things nosy people were known to do: snoop. Not wanting any part of their game Chevy headed to an alley where he knew it up and down like he knew the back of his hand. Politely making his way he weaved past innocent bystanders only to be stopped some distance away by a woman who was friends with his mother. "Chevy dear! I haven't seen you in ages! How are you my good boy?"

"I'm fair I guess." He said politely smiling at her, not wanting to know something was wrong. He didn't need more rumors passing through the village about another difference whether it is in his character or in his appearance. Before she could say more, he politely cut her off. "I'm sorry miss but I must move on, there's still I must do before returning home. I will tell Mother that you send your greetings. Good day."

"Oh good day." Smiling and a curtsy was the woman's response, stepping aside to let him pass. Bowing his thanks and smiling himself Chevy went down the alley, strutting calmly as he did to merge with the bustling crowd at the other end. His pursuers stood at the end of the alleyway, looking one way and another for the pursued only to be nowhere in sight. By the looks of the crowd Chevy knew at once that something was truly wrong and these people knew about it. They were about to leave when he decided to take them head-on. Quickly circling to the other side of the buildings to where he'd been stopped by his mother's friend, he leaned against the wall and waited for them to emerge.

The first to show himself was obviously the leader and he was greatly surprised when he was strongly pushed back into the alley by a fairly strong hand. Astonished the man stared wide eyed as Chevy stepped forward to block their path out of the sight of all present but them. The group consisted of a few more men and several women of town dress, staring in disbelief as their target stepped confidently in their path, glaring suspiciously at the one he'd forced back into the secluded area. "What do you want with me? Why were you following me?"

Some gaped at the questions, wondering how he knew it was them who trailed him through the bustling streets of town. Trying to regain his composure, the leader straightened to speak, staring the teenager in the eye. "We were hoping you'd come with us for a specific purpose. And I was hoping to convince you into answering my question on how your property was burnt down… and on how you got those scars."

He narrowed his eyes dangerously, making a number of them shiver from the feel of his eyes on them. "I got these defending my home and my family from the scum that destroyed all that we had. My family is grateful that the people here assisted us like they did and we repaid them with our labor in our fields at half the price we usually sell. Who attacked us and destroyed our home is not of my knowledge or of any others. Those who do are those responsible. So unless you have something useful to say on finding them, now's the time stranger 'cause I still have supplies to salvage for the rest of the week." Chevy growled, growing frustrated at the people before him, his canine instincts to take them all down one by one was on edge of taking over.

"Calm lad, please. I mean you no insult! We've been looking all over for you and we need to take you home and soon." Astonished himself Chevy could only blink at this man. What the hell was he getting at anyway? "What? What do you mean by that?" suddenly he paled, his scars appearing on his skin as rivulets of damaged tissue, colored a disturbing bloody red. Eyes wide he stared at the man, trying to find the words to express what had come to his mind. "You mean… has someone…. What the hell is going on? Is it my family?" he asked sounding almost desperate. The man tried to find words as well but failed, his sad expression saying it all. A surprised yell caught their attention, making them run into the crowded street, his mother's friend pointing in the direction of his house as a black pillar of smoke rising from far off in the distance. All near him turned to see his reaction, nearly choking on words at what they saw. Paler than pale, scars showing more than ever, his grey eyes threatening to pop out of his sockets, Chevy nearly felt from fainting in shock. But instead of fainting as people thought he would, he bolted toward the black omen of bad luck, dodging grabbing hands as he did, bursting past groups of people to leap like and Olympic swimmer into the sea of gold, becoming a receding black dot on the horizon.

People saw him stop on the top of a hill, a tiny figure sticking out of an oil painting that refused to stay still. The one thing that haunted the sunny day of that peaceful town was the pained screams and cries of a wounded soul as it fell to the ground, disappearing into the golden sea of grass in his grief at the loss of all that he knew and loved in the world. The wind made the sea of golden stalks move, howling to overcome the cry of grief to be mistaken for that of a wounded dog.

--End Flashback—

The silence of the room was eerie as all waited for him to continue, his eyes close to tears but he made them hold their ground. "I kinda sorta wondered off a couple days after that. I went to where the house used to be but it was nothing but ash and soot, smoldering in the middle of the day. There was nothing left, no trace that my family was still alive. I managed to get into a different town where no one knew me which is where I met some other Guardians in hiding and ended up at the Academy where I met these jokers, got the shit beat outta me by the General and got assigned to the backwards place. I met my partner Nerissa (6) somewhere along the way and finally got my head together enough to stick around and play some decent cards."

"Try playin' sudoku for the first time, that'll hurt your brain real good." Evan snickered as he tried to lighten the mood. Thankfully it worked, making Chevy smirk to himself as he shook his head at his teammate. When you hang with Evan for as long as Chevy has, you'll know when he's joking around and when he isn't, other times, you won't be so sure. "Where is Nerissa now?" Sakura had to ask, raising an eyebrow at the scarred man.

"Sleeping and I'm sure she wants to stay that way until something really exciting happens which is pretty much every fucking day of the year mind you." He grinned, scars moving to look like they had minds of their own. "Old Nerissa don't like to be bothered when there's nothing really all that much worth doing come to think of it. Only way she's comin' out is if it's an emergency. Almost makes me think I'm married… and I've never been able to woo a girl in my entire life!" he laughed while his teammates started to crack up as well. Ozzy was the only one holding back laughter, resolving to an obsequious snicker only to stop and turn confused at the door, tilting his head to the side as he did. Evan also ceased his merriment to look at the door also, looking truly puzzled. Something wasn't right and the brothers were sensing something beyond the wooden entry. Ozzy stood and without turning away he said, "Evan."

His twin could only whisper in the silence that had overcome the room once again. "Yeah?" Ozzy didn't bother to raise his voice. "I want you to get out of here as fast as you can. Everybody else included. Gayle, Chevy, Nunzio, and Finley, you stay here. We have work to do."

"Roger that. Evan buddy you gotta go now." Gayle said as he approached the table, having set down his beer for later, grabbing the boy's arm to lead him away and out of the room. But Evan wasn't going to leave just yet. "Why should I? What's going on brother?"

He never got the chance to answer as the door was sent flying off it's hinges and across the room, the cold wind blowing in snow and the strong smell of decaying flesh as the wooden structure was tossed like a stick for a dog to fetch. Masks in place and weapons at hand the six warriors charged at the attackers, one or two being thrown back and hitting and tumbling to the floor with yells of surprise and anger. Seeing the ninja group still had yet to evacuate Chevy picked himself up off the floor and with the assistance of clone copies, herded them all up the stairs. Ms. Loni tried to say otherwise but Chevy cut her off. "Whatever you do don't open this door you got me?"

"But--" she protested. He never gave her a chance to continue.

"You got me?" he growled, leaving no room for questions. The woman could only nod, the sounds of battle getting more intense by the second. He still had yet to put his mask back on. Nodding in response he slammed and locked the door behind him, loud yells and cries muffled by wood, furniture scraping across the floor, some being broken into splinters. Lights of all sorts of colors flashed and crackled from the other side, making the sides of the door more visible in the dark stairway. As quickly as it started, it was suddenly quiet, the wind still howling through the small space that was the front doorway. A small shuffle of boots, struggling breathe, and a pained hiss sounded off from the other side as a shadow darkened the bottom part of the door, a shaky hand rattled the knob as the door slowly opened to reveal: a wrecked room, a trashed floor and doorway, and to top things off, a barely breathing and bleeding unmasked Gayle standing in the doorway. His face was blank, almost shocked, his smooth face covered in blood and dust. "I don't feel so good." Was all he said before he fell onto his side, eyes shut, his breath fading. And there was a good reason why, especially with a half arm, half blade sticking out of your back. Ms. Loni quickly pulled the thing out, making him groan in pain as he slumped onto the floor again. Turning to the group of ninja, Ms. Loni's voice was stern and clear. "Follow the boys, I'll take care of this one. They most likely went to Ms. Bear's place I'm sure of it. Go and you might catch up well enough."

"What about you two? Will you be all right?" Kurenai inquired since the poor woman was shaking. "Those critters just tore up my place. And lettin' them get away is like lettin' a thief have his way. You might be able to help your two friends help Mr. 'cloak of clouds' or other. Might even get rid of that disgusting snake man once and for all. Been roamin' around this city for too long that he has. Go and take his head to whatever person you serve so damn well!" she barked, sounding angry. They only stared before moving to head out the door, convinced that this woman was definitely holding her ground. They had no choice but help end the fight. Just before leaving Ino turned to the innkeeper. "Thanks for everything. We'll try and come back soon."

"Of that I'm sure child. Now go and help your friends. They need you more than I do in a situation like this." Ms. Loni said, appearing tired. But no one dared give it a second thought as they moved out into the snow, winds blowing ice and entire mounds of snow at them as it howled into the night. It came down like rain in the Amazon, unrelenting and torturous. They became nothing more than dark blurs before disappearing in a sheet of white while fate got ready to run its course. And the bad news was: the gods and goddesses still weren't paying attention to prayers.

Omg this is so good so far and I know a lot of you are just loving it so far. And it looks like things just got a little more than mundane for the rest of the search party! 'Bout time they got some action, not the kind they expected but still… it's action and they got it! Not so many reviews as planned for either of my stories but oh well… I'll update 'Silent Ice' eventually. Chapter 2 is done and chapter 3 is still under construction. And chapter 1 of my third story just lacks motive to be completed. Sad but true. But listening to 'The Imperial March' from Star Wars does give you a boost sometimes, that and 'Parade Of The Ewoks'. Along with 'The Forest Battle'. Yeah that gets your attention real fast. Who doesn't love those little guys? They may be deformed teddy bears from space but they really know how to kick some major Imperial ass. I may not have glasses but I kinda feel like a nerd for some reason. Right… onto the notes then:

1) Finley: one of the few role-playing characters taking on some major involvement in a game of cards and then an invisible battle scene probably not meant for the eyes of some readers. If you've ever seen 'Saving Private Ryan', then you know what I mean. That and I hate nameless people walking around without my intention behind it (the Ice Bear chick was the exception on this note). Anyway his name is a bit significant in meaning when it comes to this guy. Irish Gaelic for 'small, fair-haired, brave one, or just 'sunbeam'. The nickname Fin or Finn is old German for 'from Finland' or 'fair-haired, fair-skinned one'.

2) Nunzio is also another random small part-timer but gets a big part when intending for a smaller role. His name is the Spanish version of Nuncio, Latin for 'messenger' or 'announcer', fitting his former occupation perfectly.

3) Kiku: I'm hoping will play a larger role than what's already been set before her. But having cut her so short is painful; I'm hoping that like Kazuo that she'll get to pop back into existence later and it might give Chevy a few problems dealing with the change. Unlike most of the Guardian race, some don't really take it that well causing them to deny themselves the knowledge of their return. So if she does come back… well that'll just have to wait now won't it?

4) Emory isn't one of my best and neither is his wife but the fact that I gave him an identity tells me to bring him back later to face his son along with the resurrection of the daughter. Other than that I don't expect much from the guy. His name is an English version of Emery, Old German for 'hardworking ruler' and his sense of authority over his temporarily wayward son proves it. Not the best of roles but hey, had to give the guy somethin'.

5) Gwen is a gentle person with a strong heart and in the flashback, her gentle nature is overruled by the calling of her animalistic Guardian half in their escape from the one thing that brought her and her husband happiness and peace for a little over twenty human years. Her name is the short independent version of Gwendolyn, which is Old welsh for 'fair-browed' or 'blessed ring', which kinda gives significant meaning to her relationship with Emory. This romantic-sounding name and its eighteen other English variations are responsible for the nineteenth version 'Wendy'.

6) Nerissa will hopefully soon play a larger role in the story other than her distinct and light confirmations of her existence in various parts of conversation and small talk between characters. I was hoping to name her 'Neila', Irish Gaelic for 'a champion', or 'Nia', its growingly popular pet form. But Nerissa, Greek and mainly used for those born under one of the three water signs meaning 'daughter of the sea', seemed more appropriate despite her being a dog spirit and is more earthly than that of a water elemental.

Oh how this story is turning out! A sad tale of the past and then a mysterious occurrence that gives it all a devious turn for the worst but will things turn out okay in the end? And how will the others react to knowing some real nasty characters that want nothing more than to tear them limb from limb are hunting them down? How some things just get so interesting in just one chapter! Now for what happens next:

Chapter 15: Coursing Towards Catastrophe: Divination In Action

Now that Gayle and Ms. Loni can't do much for the gang, they now have to rely on their missing allies and absent teammates to help pull them through a nasty twist that's turned even nastier. Why did Ozzy tell Evan to retreat with the ninja group? Is there more to the Twins then they're letting on? Why did the Enemy choose then to attack and what were they hoping to gain from it? Or was it Orochimaru? Itachi perhaps? Or was is someone, or something, more sinister and vile than a crazy snake man and an innocent oblivious murderer under something else's control? And will the next chapter lead to disaster, a NarutoXSasuke lemon, or just something completely random and insanely irrelevant to the story enough so that it makes the world as you know it fall to pieces? Will the Ice Bear's prediction come true or am I just pulling your leg? Am I going to tell you? Hell no! Find out in the possible conclusion of 'Aurora Borealis' with:

Chapter 15: Coursing Towards Catastrophe: Divination In Action!