Three figures were within the silent confines of a hospital room. Two ninjas, one of which was blond haired and resting in a female's lap. The other was a mute ninja in disguise who was well aware of the impending danger. And a princess, who happened to be the female who had the blond haired ninja nesting in her lap. However, despite her jovial mood, she began to have a fair curiosity about the mute one's expression.
Morrigan's thoughts
"Why does he look so... tensed. I wonder if something happened to him while he left the room." she thought to herself as she continuously stroked Naruto's cheek.
"What's wrong?" Morrigan asked Ballistic mime with Naruto's warmed cheek still in hand
"..." Ballistic mime was nervously shaking his head and then turned towards the window.
" Don't be like that. Tell me...please..." Morrigan nervously asked
Ballistic mime stood still. Almost in a state of paranoia as he never even gave Morrigan the smallest gesture of a response. He then turned his attention to the sleeping Naruto as an emotion he never knew existed raced throughout his soul. Guilt. Guilt because someone that was no a friend was a target to be killed. Guilt because this very same target gave up his own chakra the assist in his healing without so much as a second though. And without ulterior motives.
Morrigan took notice of the pain staking expressions on Ballistic mime's face and immediately deduced that he knew something she didn't. And that somehow, Naruto was involved. She then turned her attention to the young boy resting on her lap
Morrigan's thoughts
"...Foxy..." She thought to herself as she bent her back and head downward to plant a kiss on his cheek
Naruto had just awoken from the blissful sleep that Morrigan allowed him. Unfortunately, his waking wasn't a happy one. He felt the presence of danger emanating just outside of the window.
Naruto's thoughts
" I felt this chakra back at the manor. This isn't the same chakra as the guy I fought. It's...it's the chakra from that other guy that broke in."
"GET COVER!" Naruto yelled as took Morrigan in his left arm and forced the bed sideways in one motion.
Less than a split second later, a flurry of razor sharp knives invaded the room's vicinity. Within moments, the once comfortable bed in which the two young teenagers once rested was impaled beyond recognition.
"WHY ARE YOU STANDING THERE? GET BEHIND SOMETHING!" Morrigan screamed out to Ballistic mime as just stood in shock
Naruto's thoughts
"Why didn't he get hit? All those knives bombarded the room and he stand unscathed? Hell...and people call me lucky?" Naruto didn't understand how is friend survived the assault without having to move. But he wasn't about to chance fate twice.
" ARE YOU CRAZY? GET DOWN" Naruto yelled as he tried to run toward his friend and bring him to safety.
Just as Naruto's hand was in reach for his target, a streamer intersected his path. Its edges were as sharp as the knives that were previously thrown. In turn, this made Naruto jerk his hand back due to the deep gash the streamer inflicted.
"Hm hm hahhahhahha, I wouldn't do that. But, on the second thought. Please..do it again hahahah." a playfully sadistic voice directed from outside the window.
The assailant then came through the window. Morrigan was the only one in shock at seeing the enemy. The silent 'friend/enemy' knew from the very start. And Naruto felt the familiarity of the chakra. While he didn't know exactly who it was, he knew he was in for a fight.
"And you are?" Naruto asked as he stood up, battle ready.
" Hahahaha...someone you pissed off back at the manor" Mad clown replied as he attacked Naruto
Young Naruto put up a potent defense, but the force of the blow knocked him through the wall into the hallway of the hospital. The loud crash alerted a good many of the hospital staff and patients. It wouldn't be long until security's arrival. In the meantime, Naruto was confused to say the least. He had no idea who his enemy was. He just knew that if his enemy wanted a fight, he'd soon find out that people sometimes don't want what they think they do. Morrigan swiftly ran to Naruto's side to see if he was alright.
"Foxy...are you alright?" Morrigan genuinely concerned for Naruto's well-being. She was at his aide in a heartbeat. Instantly, she hovered over him and wrapped her arms around him. As a mother would to protect their young.
Naruto gave her a confident, reassuring smile. He stood up, bringing the princess to her feet as well. He gently removed Morrigan's arms although she wouldn't allow them to budge to easily. His smile gave her hope, telling her that he'd be ok. And her smile gave him a vigor that only one other girl could have given. At that moment, in his eyes Sakura and Morrigan we one in the same. Morrigan was beginning to fill the void that at one time he felt only Sakura could fill.
Naruto's thoughts
"...She's...she's so..." he thought to himself. His blissful daydream was interrupted however.
"Hahahaha...this must be a new breed of ninja fighting...Hiding behind a tramp's ass. Konoha ninja must be really...REALLY skillful hmhmhm..." Mad Clown taunted
Naruto's eyes immediately turned to the enemy as his smile was now replaced why fury. He didn't take kindly to this enemy he didn't even know have horrid comments.
"For the sake of your own damn life..." Naruto began to hang his head low and tremble. But his trembling was not out of fear. It was the tremble of anger. Despite his building tension, he gently guided the princess to the side. Trying to keep her from harms way.
"...don't you EVER TALK ABOUT MY MORRIGAN-CHAN LIKE THAT..." Naruto eyes became glazed yet alive in a way that was surreal.
Morrigan heard every word of what was just said. Her eyes were now fixated on the object of her affection. She wanted to hear him say those words again. Over and over. She had gently placed her fingers over her mouth, not wanting to make a sound. His surge of passion overwhelmed her. And she loved it.
Morrigan's thoughts
" His...Morrigan-chan... I'm his Morrigan chan...?." The princess watched on while she was still caught up in her own world
"Foxy...I AM your Morrigan-chan...I'll always be your Morrigan-chan..." Morrigan's tears began to run freely as she watched on. No matter what happened, she had no doubt that he would win.
Naruto unfortunately, wasn't in the same happy mood the princess was. He took Mad clown's blatant disrespect to heart. And he was damn sure going to make he see the error of his ways.
"You know what...I don't really give a damn who you are..." Naruto stood defiantly and performed the clone jutsu. One Naruto was now seven. Seven with one goal. The goal of defeating Mad clown.
Morrigan's thoughts
" He doesn't remember this oddball? How could he not? When he became...different...he was about ready to kill him along with the other guy that was hurt." Morrigan began to try to ponder just what was really going on with Naruto
Ballistic mime was still standing in confusion, not knowing what he should do. Who he should fight and where his priorities were for the first time in his life were entwined and unclear. During which time, two of Naruto's clones began attack Mad clown. The first one attacked high with a drop kick.
"Hahaha...predictable...aren't we?" Mad clown taunted, not realizing his predicament as he easily sidestepped the attack..
The second clone appeared behind the enemy. The clone jumped high and try to deliver a crushing knee to Mad clown's skull. But was impaled by a streamer.
"What's the deal? Aren't you gonna join in on the fun hahahm?" Mad Clown asked the still dilemma caught Ballistic mime.
Ballistic Mime didn't even respond with his normal nodding of the head. He just stood. He was simply...there. Motionless, but there. Caught in his own personal battle of attrition.
Naruto's thoughts
"Why is he asking him about joining in? What is with this...clown?" Naruto was caught in the dark as to the events swirling around him.
Naruto had five clones left and he decided to make an attempt at overwhelming the enemy. Five soon became fifteen as the clones surrounded Mad clown and took offensive positions within the room.
"If you value your life, you might want to leave now." Naruto confidently threatened as the clones quickly converged on their mutual enemy for a multi pronged attack.
"Hahaha...and if you value your life, you might want to learn not to try the same jutsu twice." Mad clown boasted as streamers sprang from various parts of his clothing. Each razor sharp. And each in one way or another connecting with their clone target.
The real Naruto barely dodged one of the streamers himself. The attack gave Naruto a semi deep gash by his rib cage.
Naruto's thoughts
" There's no room in here...I can't fight like this. I can't allow myself to lose now." He thought to himself. Naruto now realized that in a hospital room he was at a disadvantage in battle. Especially against an opponent with multi-directional, multi-faceted attacks. And such was Mad clown.
"Hmhmhm Beginning to see how pointless struggling is?" Mad clown knew of the advantage he had on Naruto in closed spaces.
Mad clown discretely allowed a single acid filled balloon to glide down his leg and onto the floor. Seeing how naruto was bleeding from his hand and rib cage, he knew the enemy would be less capable of dodging his next attack. Ballistic mime saw the balloon and knew his brother was going for the kill. And with or without regret, he knew the time to act was now.
"Hahaha. You're pathetic for a ninja. Let me help ya wash that shame away" Mad clown said has a single streamer wrapped around Naruto. He tugged hard, sending Naruto flying directly toward him. He had a sinister snare glowing on his face as his trap was about to be sprung.
"FOXY NO!" Morrigan yelled as she saw the balloon on the floor.
"..." Ballistic mime without warning, stepped directly into the path of Naruto and Mad clown. Instinctively, he put up a shield just as Mad clown stepped on the balloon, releasing a spray of acid.
Naruto's thoughts
"His speed...and that jutsu...I don't understand. He's just like the guy I fought at the manor." Naruto's earlier thoughts about his friend were now confirmed. He was indeed the assailant he had fought back at the manor.
"WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?" Mad clown spoke without laughter on this rare occasion. His brother was seemingly helping the enemy. This didn't sit well with Mad clown.
"..." Ballistic mime stood between the two of them. Not knowing what to do. His pain of betraying his brother weighed equally to the deception he'd administered to Naruto. To him, the future was uncertain. Yet in his eyes, would definitely become bleak.
"...Why?..." Morrigan painfully asked.
"I don't understand..." Naruto was confused. His new friend and too recent enemy were on in the same.
Ballistic mime clapped his hands together and spread them apart. He had mimic a bo staff and turned his attention toward Naruto and began his furious assault.
Naruto's thoughts
" I can't fight them both...I'm...going to die" Naruto seeing he had two outlandish enemies to deal with began to lose faith in the outcome of this fight.
Morrigan saw the dis-array in Naruto's eyes and quickly made it her point to put herself in danger for him. Naruto saw Morrigan at his side. Her fighting with him was not the help he had in mind.
" I didn't want you in this..." Naruto said with concern
"It's not always about what you want foxy...I want to be here..." Morrigan replied smiling.
"...Thank you..." Naruto whispered to her before purposely knocking her out. He knew she'd be too much of a risk to fight along side him. He was outmatched as things stood already.
Naruto's thoughts
"You're gonna be pissed as hell with me...but you're the best Morrigan-chan...If we get through this...I'll make it up to you...although I know I won't have to ask...heh..you'll demand like you normally do. And...I wouldn't have it any other way." He gently laid Morrigan on the ground and then turn his full attention to his opponents.
Ballistic mime stood by his brother with great despair and shame bathing his soul. Not realizing Ballistic mime's clearly confused state, Mad clown saw the downed princess Morrigan as an easy score. And as usual, began whispering his wicked plots so that only his brother could hear.
"Hmhm...the whelp gets zero points for tactics. Get around him and get the target. While I'm fighting, take the girl and start on your way back to the boss. I'm gonna stick around and enjoy maiming the whelp" Mad clown wanted to toy with Naruto knowing the fighting scenario was in his favor.
"..." Ballistic mime reluctantly listened to his brother. And his slow actions had not gone unnoticed by his brother
"Stop hesitating damn it" Mad clown snapped at his brother's newfound conscience.
Naruto began his assault against Mad Clown, purposely bypassing Ballistic mime. The two ninja were locked in combat. Fist to fist, kick to kick, and force for force.
"Hahaha, you're quite something when it comes to close range hand to hand fighting.
Mad clown sent a straight kick directly aimed at Naruto's already weakened rib cage. However, as Mad clown had already noticed, Naruto was well-versed when it came down to simple bare hand to hand combat.
"Oh I'm SO much more than quite something..." Naruto grabbed Mad clown's now extended leg.
Naruto turned his body and delivered a cruel downward thrust elbow to Mad clown's thigh. It was the first time in a very long time that someone scored a direct hit on him.
"Agghh...little bastard..." Mad clown said as he fell to the ground
Naruto's thoughts
" Perfect! I can end this fight now and get Morrigan out of here..." Naruto thought to himself
"Hahaha the mistakes we make when we're oh so young" Mad clown pointed behind Naruto.
"What?" Naruto stopped his attack and quickly turned around
Ballistic mime had an unconscious Princess Morrigan in his clutches. But seemingly, the two assailants were of different minds. Mad clown saw this as nothing more than a plan well played out. But Ballistic mime didn't share in the same positive gesture.
" Morrigan...MORRIGAN-CHAN...!" Naruto knew he was at an even greater disadvantage than he previously was.
"..." Ballistic mime showed signs of breaking down. The battle of his conflicting loyalties were becoming overwhelming to him.
"Don't do this..." Naruto for this moment saw Ballistic mime as the silent friend he just met rather than the enemy he recently fought.
Ballistic mime was trembling with shame. Slowly, he took a small, gentle step towards Naruto. But before his foot could hit the ground, Mad clown again tested his brother's loyalty.
"What are you waiting for...GO NOW!" Mad clown was irritable
Ballistic mime listened and stormed off with the princess in hand. Running on instinct, Naruto ran after him. There was no way he'd allow Ballistic mime to get away with Morrigan in his clutches. But unfortunately, his attentions were needed in more than one place.
"Hahaha You have other matters to attend to child hmhmhmm hahaha..." Mad clown said while he sealed off Naruto's path with streamers.
" You...are...going....to regret that..." He said as he began to lose his sense of self. Light hearted chakra was quickly being replaced by foul, vengeful chakra.
Naruto's eyes went red. His teeth were now beginning to take a sharper shape. More along the likes of being fangs. His nails began to grow out 3 inches longer than normal. And his whiskers began to give of an ominous glow of red.
Mad Clown would soon find that he had made a life threatening error. Taking people that Naruto cares about is quite a dangerous thing to do. As he stared at the steamers that cut off his pathway to Morrigan, a hidden fury welled inside of him. Its chakra was inhuman, foul, and ferocious.
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There was a hard banging on Atwright's door. It was a very frantic, erratic knocking. Which brought attention to all who were currently inside. Rina hastily ran to the door and opened it without even bothering to ask who was on the other side.
"Ma'am, are you the maid of this manor?" the townsman asked with a sense of urgency while catching his breath
"Yes, Of course...what's so urgent for you to be so frantic." Rina asked
"The princess. A ninja had her in his hands and was speeding away from the hospital. And that blond kid, he's fighting with someone at the hospital. They're tearing the place apart" The townsman was blurting out. But for the most part his words were understandable.
Without so much as second word, Rina ran directly to Atwright's. But before she could bang on the door, a strong hand placed itself upon her shoulder.
"Why are you running around like this"? Jiraiya halted Rina
"I think those men that broke in before are back. One of them kidnaped the princess and the other one is fighting Naruto." Rina was crying with fear.
Jiraiya didn't even have to think about his next move. With his vast experience, he knew what had to be done next.
"I see..." Jiraiya replied turning to immediately leave for his next destination.
"Jiraiya..." Rina spoke softly calling out to him
Jiraiya stopped and turned his head and saw a tearing maid trembling. He reversed his direction and made his way back to her. He wrapped his arms around her as she did him. She rested her head in his chest as her tears formed damp spots in his clothing
"They won't get away...you know me...I always get things done" Jiraiya tried to make her feel at ease.
"Yes...you do always get it done..." Rina stopped her crying and released her arms.
Jiraiya released her and then speedily continued on his way. Meanwhile, Rina resumed her task of letting Atwright know the situation. She didn't even knock. She literally just barged in. Needless to say, he was in a deep sleep. And she knew he'd be angry at being waken abruptly. Yet at the same time, in all consideration was a situation that couldn't be helped.
"Sir..." Rina softly said while she began patting his arm
"..."Atwright was in a deep slumber and wasn't even aware of his maid's presence
"Lord Atwright..." she patted a bit harder
Atwright now just made light gestures and grumbles. But still, her efforts proved fruitless as he still lay sleeping peacefully. At this point she threw away the idea of peacefully trying to awaken him.
"GET UP LORD ATWRIGHT!" Rina was now yelling as she grabbed his shirt and began jerking his body back and forth.
And with that, he finally woke up. It was rather uncomfortable. But it did the trick. And just as she thought, he was truly annoyed at being awaken in such a rude way.
"WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?" Atwright barely awake yelled at her.
"I'm sorry sir...but you wouldn't wake up any other way" Rina apologized
Atwright felt a little bad about yelling at her. Once the initial effects wore off, he realized that she was out of character and if she woke him up so roughly he must have had an extremely good reason.
"I'm the sorry one here. You probably have a good reason for being so abrupt." Atwright replied
"Sir...a townsman said that Morrigan was being taken away by a ninja." Rina said fairly rushed
Atwright at first figured that it was no problem. To him it was nothing more than Naruto playfully carrying his daughter off somewhere. It was an action he would have been fine with considering he realized how his daughter felt about Naruto.
"That's fine Rina. They're probably just having fun with each other. She does seem to have a thing for him you know. Besides, he probably just wanted to get out of the hospital for some air." Atwright said being unaware.
"NO sir, you have it wrong. Naruto is still at the hospital and he's fighting someone...I think it's the same two that wrecked the manor." Rina voiced her suspicions
"DAMN!" Atwright took Rina's words very seriously
He immediately jumped out of bed and called for the captain of the guard. After he'd called for the guard captain, he lost no stride in his movement as he was prepared to go out the door.
"Sir, where are you going?" Rina asked
"Do you really need to ask that? I'm going to find my daughter. Let Jiraiya know of what's happening." Atwright replied
"He already knows. I don't know where he went. But I told him about it already"
"Good move Rina. I'll be back when and ONLY when my daughter is safe." He praised his maid as he was jetting out the door. But her voice stopped him
"Wait...I want to come to" Rina was equally worried and felt the need to go as well
"No, I need you here. If anything happens or new information comes through, I need a trustworthy person here for it." Atwright was right
Rina reluctantly understood and unwillingly stayed behind. She hated the fact that she was the one left behind. But despite that, she was rational. She made herself some tea to calm her nerves and patiently sat and waited. It was all she could do.
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Ballistic mime, with great stealth and skill was easily making his way out of the city. Sticking to the shadows and grazing the rooftops, he managed to bypass almost everyone. But unfortunately, during his getaway he failed to be completely stealth. Normally, he was the most careful warrior one would ever come across. But with his mind in despair, he was slightly off his game.
"..." Ballistic mime caught sight of a squadron of six guards impeding his path of exit.
He could have easily taken them out even with the princess in his hands. But at this moment, he didn't have the mind of a warrior or a killer. He just didn't want to fight. He began to take a few steps back and reverse his direction.
"..." Ballistic mime shook his head. He was even beginning to surprise himself.
Morrigan was silent in his arms. He observed her and immediately looking at her brought on thoughts of Naruto. Naruto, the source of his current despairs. Yet, he wasn't angry about it. In his own little way, he was quite relieved he had the time to meet Naruto outside of battle.
"..." He gave her one last look and final decided on what he should do.
With no more thought, Ballistic mime made his next move without regret. If there were any consequences to be faced, he was willing to take and face head on. With his next move now set in stone, he once again resorted himself to the shadows, unseen by the masses.
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Jiraiya entered the hospital. He was practically ran over as people were running out. Most of the patients were safely being moved to a more secure section of the hospital. He began moving through the masses. However, a violent chakra blew past him.
Jiraiya's thoughts
" It's more powerful than the last time. The demon's desire to kill is more acute too. I pray for whoever is stupid enough to fight him at this point" Jiraiya worried as he quickly continued making his way to Naruto's room
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Mad clown lost his laughter once he felt the foul chakra emanating from Naruto. Although he only had a brief viewing of it, He remembered what Naruto looked like and acted like when he was like this. Inhuman and unholy was all that could have described. Now the normally sadistically humorous Mad clown was struck exasperating fear.
" What the hell are you...?" Mad clown was slowly backing away towards the window. For once he was completely on the defensive.
"I THOUGHT YOU WANTED A FIGHT. YOU STINK OF FEAR." Naruto said as he slowly and maliciously walked toward his enemy
Naruto's steps were slow. But the energy in the room was purely evil. When he walked past the mirror it slowly began to shatter. With every step he took, an imprint of unholy burns were left. He had an evil smirk plastered on his face that grew larger with every step.
" THAT WINDOW LOOKS INVITING DOESN'T IT?" He practically tempted Mad clown to make a break for it.
Mad clown took a quick look behind him, considering his escape. But despite his fear, even he had his pride. He reverted his attention away from the window and once again to the now demonic Naruto.
" DAMN THAT! YOU THINK I'M AFRAID OF YOU?" Mad clown yelled as he let loose a spray of acid in Naruto's direction.
To Mad clown's surprise, Naruto wasn't there anymore. The target of his attack had moved and with god-like speed. He was in total disbelief at what had just transpired.
"Where the hell is he? No human is THAT fast!" Mad clown was no panicking.
"WHO SAYS I'M HUMAN." A villainous voice replied, sending a terrifying chill to Mad clown's very soul.
Mad clown tried to move away. However, his efforts were to no avail. Naruto forcefully grabbed the back of his head. His grip was beyond solid as his nails and fingers began to dig deep.
" AIIIIIIIIEEEEE! GET OFF! PLEASE...LET GO!" Mad clown was pleading for him to let go. But instead, he enforced his grip even more. The pain was unbearable. He felt as if he was going to pass out.
"YOU'LL SLEEP ONLY WHEN I ALLOW IT" Naruto said as he used his free hand to drill Mad clown's stomach
"...(coughing)..." Mad clown could barely breathe.
Naruto definitely inflicted internal damage. Mad clown's abdomen now had an abnormally deep indent and he was now coughing up blood and internal tissue. This had stopped being a fight long ago. Now this was more of a torture session. And the demon within Naruto was relishing every moment of it.
" RASENGAN!" A blast completely engulfed Naruto. He went flying into the wall as he let go of the now unconscious Mad clown. Naruto was now burning from the heat of the blast and embedded into the wall. Almost as if he was a permanent staple to it.
"...My God..." Jiraiya couldn't believe what had walked in on. He still felt the demon's chakra flowing throughout the room. It was almost suffocating as it was weighing.
Jiraiya slowly walked into the room. With Naruto only knocked out, he knew he'd be fine. With that, he turned his attention to the half-dead clown. He was amazed at how easily Mad clown was nearly picked apart. He didn't think the enemy was weak. Just unorthodox, as he had fought him before. It was truly quite the feet to rough him up this easily.
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Morrigan had just reawakened from her unconscious state. Immediately she began to fight and struggle with Ballistic mime.
"LET GO!" she yelled out as she kicked him directly in his face.
With Ballistic mime now stumbling, she was able to free herself from his hold. But rather than run, she attempted to fight. Her blows were administered with great accuracy. Every roundhouse kicked she threw Ballistic mime's way connected.
"..." Ballistic mime said nothing as he continued to take in every attack the princess threw his way without so much as an attempt to fight back or even defend himself.
Morrigan began to wonder why he'd just let him attack her the way she was. She was hitting him very viciously and the bruises on her opponent were the proof of that.
"What? You won't even try to fight back. Kidnaping a woman isn't beneath you but fighting one is?" She hissed out as she once again began to attack
The commotion being made by the two didn't go unnoticed. Some guardsmen heard the struggle and began paying attention to the sound and its familiarity.
"You know, I might be drunk, but I could have sworn I heard the princess's voice" A very lax guardsmen said
"Well, I'm NOT drunk and I KNOW I heard her voice." Another guard said.
The two nervously looked at each other and nodded. They slowly, yet not so quietly began making their way to the origin of the struggle
"..." Ballistic mime sensed the two guards and decided it was time to once again make himself and the princess scarce.
Morrigan was still fighting him. She was caught totally off guard as he instantly stopped her punch. She was totally in shock as it was the first time that he'd actually made a move while she was attacking him. In one motion, he grabbed and swiftly continued on his way. The guards were left to wonder if there was anyone there at all.
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Jiraiya was carefully looking over Mad clown's body. His life was nearly wiped out by Naruto's inner demon. Even though he was an enemy, he wasn't about to let a light be extinguished. No matter how villainous. He was carefully trying his best to wrap him up and clean the dried blood. But with all the hospital staff in a far section away from the battle scene and he with limited medical skill, he couldn't do much.
"YOU'RE STUPID ENOUGH TO TRY THE SAME THING TWICE. YEAH YOU'RE DEFINITELY HUMAN" Naruto referred to the first time Jiraiya knocked him out
Jiraiya felt the demon's evil chakra at his back as he heard his brooding, evil voice. He was several feet away, but the thickness was unmistakable and indescribable. Jiraiya rose to his feet with not a single ounce of fear. It wouldn't be the first time he fought a powerful evil. Nor would he allow it to be the last.
" Why differ from what works?...you were out long enough for me to take care of this poor soul" Jiraiya replied as he finished caring for the unconscious Mad clown.
The demon walked out of the hole in the wall made by his body due to Jiraiya's attack. He had an evil smile as he looked on at Mad clown. The evil one was somewhat proud of his 'masterpiece'.
"I COULD HAVE DONE SOME WORK ON HIS BONE STRUCTURE. ONCE I'M DONE WITH YOU OLD BASTARD, I'LL FINISH UP ON THAT CLOWN" The possessed Naruto threatened.
"Be careful of who you threaten Kyuubi. A sannin bows to nobody." Jiraiya was preparing for a fight.
The demon was laughing as he didn't feel threatened in the least. He knew that even in the vessel of Naruto, he was still more than enough for any human, even a legendary sannin. And even if Jiraiya was stronger, he still had a trump card, the vessel himself.
"COME NOW OLD MAN, COULD YOU REALLY HURT ME? I'M YOUR 'STUDENT'. YOU'RE MY 'SENSEI'" The demon began to snicker.
"No, Naruto is my student. YOU however, are an abysmal stain amongst this world. And like any evil before you I've fought, you'll die at my hands." Jiraiya replied with annoyance as he began gathering his chakra.
"IDIOT, YOU CAN'T WIPE ME OUT. I'M A NECESSITY." The demon laughed as he initiated the battle
The possessed Naruto began his assault with an attempted punch to Jiraiya's chest. Skillfully, Jiraiya blocked the attack. However, he let out a slight grimace under his breath. The forced administered to his arm from blocking the assault was extreme.
Jiraiya's thoughts
"Damn...that hurt. He's definitely stronger than what I remember. I don't think I can fight him head on. I have to find a way for Naruto to retake control of his body." Jiraiya thought to himself after feeling the force of the demon's power
"DON'T BE SO DEFENSIVE, WHAT HAPPENED TO ALL THAT TALK?" The demon was taunting the sannin. He began to open his fist and let his nails claw freely
Naruto possessed was moving too fast for even the sannin to mount a counter attack. Jiraiya's hair quickly surrounded him to protect its owner. He felt the demon's nails ripping threw the hair-made shield like paper. But as quickly as the hair was shredded, it was replaced. Thus the shield was maintained.
"COWARD! COWARD! COWARD!" The demon was annoyed at not being able to get to its prey
The demon now infuriated cocked his arm back. He grew tired of senselessly attacked Jiraiya's self-replenishing barrier.
Jiraiya's thoughts
" Bad move demon. Hundreds of years old and still making amateur mistakes. Allow me to show you your errors" Jiraiya saw the pause in attack as a opening for his own offensive.
"YOUR ASS IS MINE NOW HUMAN!" The demon began is attack to finally break through the sannin's defense.
Jiraiya retracted his hair and sidestepped to his right. The demon's attack was off target and left him off balance. Jiraiya had a mischievous smile has he opened his left palm directly into the possessed Naruto's face. The demon's expression was one of surprise has once evil eyes for a split second showed signs of shock and unbalance.
"WHAT? NO?" Kyuubi knew he was in for it. Off balance and without a defense, all the demon could do was brace for the coming, painful attack.
Jiraiya's thoughts
"Sorry Naruto...I really hope you can forgive me kid" Jiraiya felt guilt about what he was going to do. But he knew might have to cause Naruto serious harm for the sake of halting the demon.
"RASENGAN!" Jiraiya focused almost all of the chakra he had into his attack.
Naruto was engulfed in the light of the assault. With no way to defend himself, he was then left with one option and one option alone. Take the blow and pray for survival. Onlookers saw the gigantic blast from the streets. Naruto was sent flying out the window.
"LOOK OUT!" One of the people yelled as Naruto was spotted speeding to the ground.
People scattered as Naruto's smoking body hit the ground hard. The force of impact made those close by feel as though they felt a small earthquake. People slowly began to gather around the smoking body
"Someone help that kid." A female spectator said.
"DAMN, he burned me!" A middle-aged man said as he tried to touch the high temperature corpse.
"GET AWAY FROM HIM!" Jiraiya yelled out to the spectators as he jumped down to the surface with Mad clown in hand.
The people did as Jiraiya commanded and scattered. Guards immediately calmed the people and began attempting to secure the area. The guards were now slowly converging on the scene.
"I SAID GET BACK!" Jiraiya was now even more stern that last time as he ordered the guards.
"Who the hell do you think you are old man?" One of the guards bellowed
"Yeah, damn outsider" Another one of the guardsmen added.
Jiraiya didn't say another word. Instead, he gave the guards an intimidating, impenetrable stare. The kind of stare that would make the devil himself back off. He then gently set Mad clown back down and gave an even more forceful gaze than he had before. The guards at this point were hesitant. Some even began taking steps backward.
"I wouldn't rile this man if I were you" Atwright said as he worked his way through the masses.
"Sir!" The guards saluted.
Atwright got a good look at both Mad clown and Naruto. He slowly walked over to Naruto. His facial expression was on of great sadness. He then turned to Jiraiya with anger.
"What the hell happened here Jiraiya. TELL ME DAMN IT" Atwright was upset to say the least
"He's not dead. Neither of them are. 'IT' came out and picked this poor soul apart. It would have went on a rampage." Jiraiya was right. As he referred to the kyuubi demon simply as 'it' not to make the true reality public.
As the two talked, Naruto's body began to twitch. The demon was never hurt. With his face buried ground level deep, nobody caught sight of the demon's smile. As Atwright and Jiraiya talked, Naruto's body was once again standing on two feet. Jiraiya caught sight of this and was surprised.
"...Naruto...?" Jiraiya said as he questioned.
"He's alright?" Atwright turned his head so that he too could view the young genin.
Naruto didn't respond. He just stood with his head held down. One of the guards immediately ran to Naruto's aide. However, Naruto just stood perfectly still. The air was ominous and Atwright, even though he wasn't a ninja, knew something was wrong.
"Son, you ok?" The guard said as he rested his hand onto Naruto's seemingly lifeless shoulder.
"Wait! Something's wrong." Atwright warned
"?" The guard was confused
Naruto then let up his head. He was smiling. Everyone caught sight of his smile. He then turned his attention to the guard that had his hand placed on his shoulder. The two made eye contact. The guard was still confused and Naruto was still smiling. He then started gathering chakra.
Jiraiya's thoughts
" Atwright's senses are pretty dead on. Something IS wrong...KYUUBI!" Jiraiya felt the abnormal chakra and knew the dilemma wasn't over.
"RUN!" Jiraiya yelled as everyone was no confused.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH" The demon was yelling at a sub-sonic level. The guard was instantly blown back as was everyone else within to vicinity of the shreik.
The force of the scream was powerful enough to send people practically flying. Buildings were beginning to shake to their very foundations. People were running for whatever cover they could. The scream's voice seemed surreal as it gave no sign of weakening.
Jiraiya and Atwright took shelter in the hospital. After he had finished taking his pleasure in basically scattering the people, he then turned his head and smiled at the Sannin.
"DID YOU REALLY THINK YOU WERE THAT GOOD?" The demon smiled
Jiraiya quickly ran back out to confront the demon a second time. He wasn't sure on what to do anymore. But he knew he was the only one that had any chance at all of stopping him. To him, his task was to stop Naruto, at all costs.
"I AM that good...RASENGAN!" Jiraiya immediately performed his attack.
The demon didn't look anywhere close to threatened. In fact, his eyes looked on as though to welcome the sannin's challenge. He felt it was time to show him just what he was dealing with.
"ANYTHING YOU CAN DO...RASENGAN!" The demon countered with his own version of the attack
Kyuubi's power proved to be too much. Even for Jiraiya. His attack was quickly overwhelmed. As their attacks clashed, Jiraiya felt his body beginning to weaken. He dropped to one knee due to exhaustion from going head to head with a demon and stopped his attack
Atwright's thoughts
"Good lord...and the demon isn't even fully awakened yet and look at the carnage...it was said that Kyuubi's evil is legendary. Seems as though there is plenty of truth to that. If given rebirth...that demon WILL go unopposed and ravage this world..." Atwright thought to himself seeing the damage the demon could do without being fully reborn.
"...I CAN DO BETTER" The demon said as he showed a dominant smile, finishing his statement.
Naruto was now walking slowly and jovially toward the downed Jiraiya. He knew he had his opponent in a bad way. And the very thought of pressing the advantage and torturing the opposition sat very well with Kyuubi.
"Naruto! Don't!" Atwright tried to get between Jiraiya and Naruto as he yelled
"PESTILENCE..." Naruto mocked as he smack Atwright hard to the ground
"THE LETTING OF BLOOD BEGINS" Naruto began his final assault with an evil smile. The demon was blood thirsty.
"STOP!" A female's voice echoed while standing along side a silent ninja.
She took a good hard look at the semi-human being she beckoned. But unlike everyone else, she wasn't afraid. She knew it was her Naruto. And that no warm would become of her because of that very fact. Transformation or not, she cared for Naruto all the same.
The demon turned around, annoyed at being interrupted from his evil desire to dismember Jiraiya. The very sight of the young woman. Her presence was one of which could not be ignored. Balllistic carefully observed the scene. His eyes grew wide as he quickly ran to Mad clown's aid. The demon noticed him.
"READY FOR ROUND TWO?" The demon remembered the previous encounter with Ballistic mime and was looking
Morrigan immediately ran into Naruto's path. She had no fear of the demon. And deep down, she knew she wouldn't be hurt in any way.
"MOVE GIRL!" The demon threatened
"NO! YOU BACK OFF!" The princess was yelling at Kyuubi
The demon began to bear its fangs. He had already taken down two opponents. And was beside itself at the fact that a young female showing such heart.
"I'LL KILL YOU!" The demon opened its palm and thrust towards Morrigan's face.
The hand stopped at Morrigan's face. But it didn't quite grab it and she never even flinched. She had no fear. Ballistic mime watched in awe. He couldn't believe that this girl able to do the single thing that he, his brother, nor Jiraiya could not.
"..." Ballistic mime silently watched on while hovering over his brother.
" You can strike me if you want...if it will make you feel better..." Morrigan softly said as she gently grasped Naruto's outstretched hand still posed at her face.
The demon was frozen. Never before having faced someone that showed such kindness in face of its attacks.
"DON'T TOUCH ME HUMAN!" The demon almost said with hidden fear as it was taken aback
"...Im not touching you...I'm touching my Naruto...my foxy..." She said as she slowly took steps forward, drawing herself close to the possessed gennin.
The demon had never witnessed such a sense of love or compassion before. It was new just as it was terrifying to the demon. The demon's fear was not from battle. Rather now, it was the fear of being wanted, the fear of acceptance. As it was new, the demon was unfamiliar and knew of no way to handle such strong emotions. Slowly it began losing control over the body it possessed.
"NARUTO HAS NO PLACE IN THIS WORLD!" The demon yelled with fear. Every second with Morrigan was making its power waiver more and more
Morrigan slowly wrapped her arms around the possessed ninja. The demon's eyes began to soften. And for the first time, it was actually sweating. The demon grabbed Morrigan's arms. However, could not pry itself out of Morrigan's warm embrace. Powers and emotions of unknown origins would not allow it.
"My foxy will always have a place in this world...with me" She replied as she looked into Kyuubi's violent eyes with a smile
"MORriGan...MorriGAn-chan...?" The weakening of Kyuubi's control of Naruto was becoming evident.
"Yes...it's me, your Morrigan-chan...and she wants her foxy back...more than anything in the world..." Morrigan slowly began to let loose her tears.
The demon could fight no longer. Naruto's will was returning. Morrigan's compassion gave Naruto's will strength as it drained the demon of its control. The demon let out a scream of defeat as it retreated back to the recesses of Naruto's mind.
"AGGHHHHH!" That very scream was the demon's last attempt at voice
Morrigan held Naruto tighter. She could feel the great level of pain in the scream. She couldn't bare the thought of Naruto being in such pain. But there was nothing she could do. She buried her face into Naruto's chest and let her tears flow. Naruto's demonic transformation began to recede. He was beginning to once again adopt his human features as the demon's control was fading.
Morrigan's thoughts
"I want him back...I want him back..." She thought to herself as her sobs hadn't gone unheard.
Hearing the silence, some of the doctors and nurses began to step out of the hospital and observe the scenario. Dr. Mizhrahi was amongst them. Morrigan still crying. The fact that Naruto's safety was compromised in any form infuriated her. And feeling powerless, all she could do was cry.
"...Foxy..." Morrigan said while still crying into the one she cares for's chest
"...Morrigan-chan?..." Naruto weakly let out her name.
Morrigan's crying came to a complete halt at the sound of Naruto's voice. She felt as though she was dreaming. She slowly released her face from Naruto's chest and looked up. Happy eyes met confused ones. She was still crying. But her happiness at the sound of his voice negated any pain she was feeling at that very moment.
"Hi..." Naruto's confusion became a joyous smile as he and the princess locked eyes.
"...I missed you..." Morrigan replied pressing her forehead to his as she still had tears in her eyes.
Naruto continued to smile as he enjoyed the princess's happy state. But he was still weakened by the demon's hostile taking of his body. He had been pushed to the limit and was unable to handle the residual pressure left in the demon's wake. Without so much as another word, Naruto passed out.
"...Rest foxy...and don't worry...when you wake up, I will be by your side." Morrigan said as she noticed Naruto's weak state.
A strong hand then placed itself upon the princess's shoulder. She turned to face the owner of said hand. It was her former kidnapper, Ballistic mime. She gave him a smile of approval.
"Our friend...he'll be just fine 'Mr.Silent'" Morrigan said with fair assurance.
"..." Ballistic mime smiled at her with his wounded brother in hand.
Morrigan then turned her attention back to her heart's desire, Naruto. She was just grateful to have her Naruto back. Ballistic felt great respect for the demon vessel. To Ballistic mime, Naruto was one of the few 'worthy' people whether he'd be friend or an enemy. He then did something that was out of character to most.
"...Tell Naruto that Ballistic mime gives his gratitude..." Ballistic mime finally allowed someone to hear his voice as he then turned around and began walking away with his brother in hand.
Morrigan immediately shot up. She couldn't believe what she had heard. The silent friend/warrior had spoken. Guards began to converge and surround Ballistic mime. They remember his criminal actions and they were more than ready to call him on them.
"HALT! You're to be placed in our custody for assault, breaking and entering, and attempted kidnaping." A guard said, listing the assailant's crimes
"...Let him go..." Morrigan intervened without turning to watch. while she still held Naruto in her warm embrace
The guards all looked at each other in disbelief. A criminal was being allowed to roam free without so much as a second thought. One of them decided to make his voice heard.
"This man has commited..." He was cut off
"LET HIM GO NOW!" Morrigan yelled.
Without further protest, the guards parted and made a path. Allowing the two criminals to make their departure. The guards all watched on. Some with anger and others with confusion. But that was fine. Not everything was in black and white nor was everything meant to be understood by those that sat on the outside, looking inward.
"Hey wait! He needs serious medical attention. Let take..." Dr. Mizhrahi was concerned but stopped his talking as he and Ballistic mime made eye contact.
"..." He stared at the doctor and slowly nodded no. He then continued on his way
Ballistic mime's stare wasn't one of intimidation. It was on of assurance. To assure him that he'd know what to do and that his brother would be fine. Not to mention it wouldn't have been safe for them to stay. After their various crimes, he knew he and his brother would have plenty a reason to watch their backs. Various members of the hospital's staff assisted Jiraiya and Atwright. Reluctantly, Morrigan was forced to let Naruto go as Dr. Mizhrahi himself took him into his own personal care. Needless to say, Morrigan once again spent the night at the hospital as she constantly watched over her father, Jiraiya, and her object of affection, Naruto. However, seeing as their conditions weren't anywhere close to severe, aside from Jiraiya being fatigued, Atwright and Jiraiya opted to leave. Which in the end only left Naruto to be tended to.
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Konoha had a much more peaceful night than Waves. The sun was bright and beautiful. It would have been an amazing sight to wake up to for most people. The sun's light glistening through Tsunade's office with reckless abandon. Sakura however, was sleeping uncomfortably and was unmoved by the light. She was turning frantically, wearing Tsunade's sofa out.
"Sakura?" Tsunade said as she stepped into her office, surprised at seeing Sakura sleeping there.
"...hmm...Good morning Tsunade-sensei" Sakura had awoken, giving her teacher a half weakened smile.
"Good morning? Sakura, why did you sleep here all night? This is a place of work. Not leisure. You better have a good reason for this." The Hokage demanded in answer for this.
Sakura was too afraid to let her know of her emotional woes. So she decided to make an attempt at deceiving the Hokage.
"I...I didn't really feel too well. I didn't really want to walk home alone because I felt really dizzy." Sakura made her attempt at hiding the truth
Inner Sakura
"I don't even know why I'm bothering to lie. She can always read people like open books. But what else can I do? I can't tell her that I'm...hurting..." Sakura didn't know of any other way to hide the real problem from her sensei.
The Hokage then put her hand to her to Sakura's forehead and began to focus her chakra. Using her own chakra, Tsunade scanned Sakura's body for any abnormalities. She had found absolutely nothing. Sakura was completely healthy without an ailment in sight. The Hokage just looked at her student and chuckled
"Sakura dear, if your going to try to deceive someone, it would be to your benefit if you actually tried to make your ailment real." The Hokage indirectly let on that she was aware of the deception
Inner Sakura
"This is so embarrassing" Sakura was ashamed of herself
"I'm sorry...Tsunade-sama..." Sakura held her head downward to disguise her frown.
"Don't worry about it dear" Tsunade smiled as she went and sat at her desk
The Hokage sat at her desk and began to look over some of her leftover work. But something didn't feel right. She was used to a pair of childish eyes constantly staring at her. She took a moment to observe her desk.
Tsunade's thoughts
" Where is that picture? I had a picture of my loving, adorable, idiot surrogate son sitting right there. Oh well, I'll find it later." She quickly discovered what was missing. But she was taken away from her thoughts for a moment
"Sensei...may I ask you something?" Sakura had a serious question
The Hokage took her eyes away from her desk and focused them onto her apprentice. Sakura's eyes told a story. A story of longing and sadness. So whatever question Sakura was going to ask, Tsunade knew to try to be as considerate as possible.
"You know you can dear." Tsunade smiled
Sakura allowed a small smile grace her beautiful face. She really needed to talk with someone. She'd be afraid to talk with Naruto about this even if he was here. And she didn't know where Ino was at the moment. Nor was she home, so she couldn't talk with Ms. Haruno.
"Have you ever taken something for granted...and then realized what you had too late?" Sakura was indirectly referring to the fact that she felt that Morrigan would take Naruto's love away from her.
"Of course, who hasn't done that. But it's a life lesson child. We live, we learn, we move on and learn not to make the same mistake twice." Tsunade tried to give her a logical response.
Inner Sakura
"Ouch!...Not what I wanted to hear..." Sakura thought to herself feeling even worse now.
Tsunade looked a little concerned at this point. She was hoping her words could help her student. But the Hokage was so used to being a tough woman that once in a while her sensitivity went dull. Wanting to be of better help, the Hokage pressed on.
"Hon, speak up a bit more. What's really wrong?" Tsunade softened a bit.
"No...it's alright Sensei." Sakura felt that pressing on would deepen her heartache.
Tsunade disregarded it and continued looking at her paperwork. She noticed a letter addressed to her from Jiraiya sitting on the end of her desk. It was slightly wrinkled and the seal was already broken.
"...Sakura, do you realize it's a crime to open another person's mail without their permission." Tsunade knew immediately Sakura was the only one that could have done it considering she was the only one here overnight.
"...I'm sorry...I was just worried about Naruto...-kun." She apologized as she had difficulty adding the kun suffix to Naruto's name at the particular time. The thought of actually losing him made voicing any sort of closeness painful for her.
" Sigh...It's alright to worry dear, but next time, mind not violating the law for your fears?" Tsunade said as she wasn't too upset with her. She new that her feelings for Naruto were real. So she allowed Sakura's actions to slide this time around
Tsunade began to read over the note. She read it both extensively and thoroughly. Just as Tsunade had finished looking over Jiraiya's report, Sakura released another question from her mouth.
"Tsunade-sama...it should have been me that accompanied them. Naruto and I, we know each other so well. Like the inside and out of a hand, we go together...why is she allowed to go without any sort of real ninja training whatsoever but I being on the verge of taking the chuunin exam had to stay here?" Despite Sakura's obvious jealousy, she did have a great point.
Tsunade nestled her hands together under her chin and began to explain the situation.
"Well Sakura, the trip was supposed to be just the two of them. They would have traveled a lot faster as a simple two-man team." Tsunade said
"But they have a third person with them now, Princess Morrigan. Who by the way isn't even a ninja of Konoha. In fact, she's not even a ninja at all." Sakura was quick to point out as she began to slowly cry.
Sakura began to tremble as she rubbed her eyes. She didn't want Tsunade to see her tears. But it was already too late. And now the Hokage understood why her picture wasn't where it should have been.
"Dear, personally I prefer them to stay as a two-man team. But this was a matter of circumstance. Like it said in Jiraiya's message, they came across two unknown enemies."
"Sensei, I understand. But she is nowhere close to my level of skill. Why can't I go to them?" Sakura asked
"As I said, it's a matter of circumstance. You know of the severe time limit they're on. They could ill afford to spare the time to wait for you to make the trip to waves. Every second counts. Even though she doesn't have a superior skill level to your own, she does have some ability and they need a medic of some kind."
Sakura stopped trying to fight. She knew Tsunade was right. But her heart's breaking overruled any sort of rationality. Tsunade felt the need to attempt to give her student some hope. She had a hunch of why Sakura was being so abrasive. And as a woman, she understood.
"Sakura, you're afraid you will lose Naruto, aren't you?" the Hokage bluntly and softly put.
Inner Sakura
"...I can't positively be that transparent..." She thought to herself as she couldn't hold in her tears anymore. Hearing the two words, 'lose Naruto' together was enough to shatter her world.
"Sensei..." Sakura couldn't find any words for herself
"Sakura, that boy as chased after you for too many years now. How could you possibly doubt his feelings for you." Tsunade pointed to Naruto's devotion to her
"Sensei I..."
"No. Sigh...Sakura, you know you've treated Naruto 'less than perfectly' despite all the care and consideration he's always shown to you. Especially in recent times." The Hokage had another point. She had even pointed out how she stood Naruto up and stayed with Sasuke
Sakura held her head down in shame. The Hokage could hear Sakura sniffling. Sakura said no other words as she continued to cry. This time refusing to attempt to wipe her eyes. It was as if no matter how much time went past, the regret and pain of her actions would never go away.
"But guess what? He still talked to you. He still stayed with you. And Sakura despite whatever the past, he still loves you. So you have no right to doubt him like that. He deserves to have your trust. Because you've always had his." Tsunade gave Sakura a small sign of hope.
Hearing the Hokage speak was harsh for her. But at the same time she felt enlightened. Just hearing that Naruto possibly still have that kind of care for her was enough to give her a small sense of satisfaction. And with that she gave way to a slight blush thinking about the one she loves.
"Besides didn't you say..." The Hokage began to speak
" ...that you wanted to a better Sakura-chan for Naruto?" They both said as Sakura joined her in unison
The two just looked at each other and laughed. They began to realized they too were beginning to have a bond. They seemed to be becoming sisters rather than just simply teacher and student. It was as if she had a second Shizune by her side. Sakura began to leave but the Hokage called her back.
"Sakura!" the Hokage said promptly
Sakura turned around immediately at the urgency of Tsunade's voice
"Yes sensei...?"
"It's ok. I have better pictures of him" Indirectly, the Hokage made Sakura aware that she knew she had Naruto's picture.
Inner Sakura
" I didn't mean to take it... I was just looking at what was missing in my life is all...nothing gets past her at all" Sakura thought to herself
Sakura playfully stuck her tongue at the Hokage. And just as a sister would, Tsunade returned the favor and stuck her tongue back at her. Sakura left the Hokage's office. When the door closed behind Sakura, the Hokage's smiled quickly was replaced with a look of great concern.
Tsunade's thoughts
"I wish I was as sure of things as I sounded Sakura...Naruto dear, I wouldn't blame you for not forgiving her...it was a selfish and cruel thing she did. But...it would be nice if you considered giving Sakura another shot. I can honestly say...she will make it worth your while. She really loves you...with all her heart." Tsunade was deep in thought about the two gennins that were closest to her.
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Back in waves, a certain fox vessel was asleep in a different hospital room. Considering the previous encounter rendered his previous room uninhabitable. A female was sitting at his bedside with great concern watching as he violently tossed and turned.
Dream Segment
"I'LL BE COMING OUT SOON CHILD"
"Who are you..." Naruto nervously questioned
"A PRISONER IN YOUR WRETCHED BODY"
" I don't understand?"
"I RECOGNIZE YOUR BLOOD. YOU HAVE THE BLOOD OF MY JAILER!"
"Your...your jailer?" Naruto had no comprehension of past events.
"I WILL DESTROY THOSE YOU HOLD MOST DEAR. BE PREPARED BOY, MY VENGEANCE WILL BE ABSOLUTE"
Once that was said, two silhouettes appear. They represented two young girls, they were Sakura and Morrigan
"WHAT? No...NOOO!" Naruto became frightened and frantic.
The evil demon let loose a sinister smile at the sight of Naruto's despair.
Dream Segment end
At that very moment, Naruto practically hovered out of his bed. He had never had such a nightmare in his life. For him it was both frightening as it was real. He was in a state of panic. That was until a pair of warm, sensual hands pressed onto his cheek and chest.
"Easy foxy..." Morrigan said she she calmed Naruto down.
Once Naruto saw Morrigan at his side, he began to ease his tension. He did as she asked and rested his head back on his pillow as he stared at her. She smiled at him and began wiping the sweat from his brow with a rag.
"...Hi...Morrigan-chan..." Naruto said
Morrigan's thoughts
"I really wasn't dreaming...I am his Morrigan-chan...I can so get used to him calling me that" Morrigan blushed
" Good Morning foxy..." She sweetly smiled as she held his hand and kissed him softly on his cheek.
"...Bad dream?" She asked. She was very curious as to why he was so wild in his sleep
"Yeah...there was some kind of monster in my dream. And it said it recognized my blood.
"...A monster?...What did it look like?" The princess questioned
Naruto was afraid to continue on with his story. He was afraid of telling her about the evil warning the demon gave just before he had awoken. But for her curiosity, he did as she asked
"Well...it had red eyes. Very red eyes,. It's nails couldn't have been no more than three inches." Naruto began to describe the one in his nightmare.
Morrigan's thoughts
"This can't be real...it just can't be..." the princess began to recognize and envision the picture as Naruto had described it.
"Oh, and it had whiskers too. If you matched its face to mine, the whiskers would be in the same spots as my facial marks." Naruto continued on
Morrigan's thoughts
" No...no...Foxy" Morrigan's fears were real. She knew that whatever possessed Naruto and the creature in his dream were one in the same.
"FOXY!" Morrigan tightly hugged Naruto. It seemed as though the more she worried, the stronger her embrace became.
"It's ok Morrigan-chan. It was only a dream" He tried to ease her as he returned the embrace and rubbed her back.
Morrigan's thoughts
"No foxy...this isn't alright. I'm scared for you..." Morrigan silently began to cry. She kept her voice in so not to alert Naruto to her crying.
"Foxy...do you remember anything about last night? Anything at all?" Morrigan was afraid, but she was worried about his state of being after that horrid ordeal.
"Well, I remember fighting that freaky clown guy. And you were taken away...by my friend..." Naruto stared at the ceiling with a sad gaze.
Morrigan's thoughts
" He doesn't remember?..." She noticed it was the second time he seemed to have had no recollection of something that recently happened.
Morrigan and Naruto were still hugging each other. Naruto's eyes were still fixed on the ceiling. He was thinking of how his friend and his enemy were the same person. Morrigan released him and looked into his eyes again.
"Morrigan-chan...am I too trusting?" Naruto felt ashamed at being deceived
Morrigan smiled in his face and took his chin in her palm
"Foxy...someone left a message for you..." she said smiling
"Really? Where is it?" He figured it was something in writing.
"He said, 'Tell Naruto that Ballistic mime gives his gratitude'". Morrigan quoted exactly
" Ok, so where's the note?" Naruto asked still thinking this was a written message.
"Naruto, Ballistic mime is 'Mr. Silent's' name. He TOLD me." Morrigan finally made him realized as she began to laugh a little.
Naruto's mouth was agape. He had spent all that time with him and couldn't get so much as a peep out of the man. But know he was actually thankful made him happy. At that moment, Dr. Mizhrahi entered the room..
Hey Naruto, Morrigan. Did you guys sleep well? The doctor asked
Morrigan smiled which pretty much told the story that she slept just fine.
"I've had better nights" Naruto indirectly referred to his nightmare.
The doctor smiled. He was happy that is favorite patient was at least well.
"Princess, it's time we do something about that arm of Naruto's. Would you mind leaving the room for awhile? Don't worry, it's not exactly surgery, but we have to fit his arm for his armor
"His armor?" the princess inquired
"I call it anti-chakra armor." The doctor said proudly.
"Sounds...average" Naruto said fairly un-wowed
"Yeah really" Morrigan agreed.
"But the abilities it has are far from average. You see, as I told Jiraiya, it will block any chakra from flowing to your arm where your discoloration is. However, it does have a secondary effect. If you use it as a shield against any direct chakra or energy projectiles, the armor will absorbed the energy and make it your own." The doctor proudly said
Naruto's eyes went wide as he heard its effects. The sparkle in his eyes showed how amazed he was at hearing the secondary effect.
"Well...we better get started" the doctor said happily as his patient was prepared.
" Well, I have to get your bag ready for our trip anyway foxy. I'll see you later." She gave him a peck on the cheek as she began to leave.
Naruto's thoughts
" 'OUR' trip?" He didn't miss what she had said
"Oh and foxy, it's not that you're too trusting. You just have a big heart" She winked at him and left
Naruto smiled at her as she left the room. As aggressive as she was for his attentions, she was an equally good friend. Slowly he began to realized that this girl had his well-being and happiness in mind. She'd always have his happiness and well-being in mind.
"Ready Naruto?" the doctor asked.
"Let's do it!" Naruto was more than ready
The doctor and two of his assistants began to prepare their patient's arm for the anti-chakra armor. It wouldn't take too long. But this was experimental as it was vital for Naruto's overall longevity. So with that in mind, the doctor wanted to make sure everything goes as it should.
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Atwright was once again back with the council to once again resume talks about the gene-twili key. Given last night's events, Atwright felt that a decision on the situation was now up in the air. He couldn't predict in the least what the final outcome would be. The council took their respective seats and began to pick up where they left off.
"In light of last night's tragedy, we have a decision to make. The Gene twili key. Members of the council, taken into account all we know of both Jiraiya and Naruto as well as taken into account last night's events, if you have anything you'd like to add, do so now." Kamada wanted a thought out yet swift resolution
Not a single member of the council had anything more to add. For the most part they all had their decisions made. And due to Atwright's previous speech, they were fairly prepared for something like what had happened the night before to become a reality. Akagi however, once again wanted to fight
"Fellow councilman." Akagi stood up and drew attention to himself.
" We all read the reports, we all seen the nature of that demon child first hand. Can we really entrust the gene-twili key to such an entity?" Akagi drew the audience to the obvious
The council members just began to look at each other. Atwright however, was taking all of Akagi's words in. He kept his disgust and anger of the man to himself.
"Do we really want to consider giving more power to a beast of this magnitude?" Akagi said, wearing on Atwright's last nerve.
Akagi once again took his seat and grinned. He was so sure of himself that the key would remain in waves.
"Thank you Akagi...Would anyone else like to make their opinions known." Kamada was asking to hear anyone else's thoughts
"We all know of the violent happening of last night..." Atwright said as he bravely stood from his seat.
" Last night, we all witness something of inhuman strength and malice. I've seen this with my own eyes." Atwright recollected.
Akagi just watched on, thinking that Atwright had seen things his way.
"However,...that was only...ONLY...a taste of the possible future. The demon wasn't even fully reborn and you all know for yourselves of how powerful it is. Just look at the hospital and the surrounding area for proof of that." Atwright continued
The council watched on in great attention.
" Despite that, now more than ever...I STICK BEHIND THE NOTION OF ENTRUSTING NARUTO AND JIRAIYA WITH THE GENE-TWILI KEY" Atwright yelled out
Akagi was infuriated at this brash speech coming from Atwright.
"If we don't allow them to AT LEAST make an attempt to find a solution to the demon, we will have a much greater problem that simple property damage...and if that happens even the most elite of ninja won't be able to handle the problem. Even one of the legendary sannin, Jiraiya had been rendered useless by the demon." Atwright was correct
Akagi interjected.
"I'll suggest what I've suggested previously, kill the demon vessel" Akagi said smiling
Atwright could intake Akagi's stupidity any longer
"You know what stupid, you want to kill Naruto? FINE!...I DARE YOU TO TRY. Send our guards to fight someone that they have NO CHANCE IN HELL OF BEATING." Atwright was quite angry
Akagi's smart wit couldn't assist him in counter arguing.
" SEND OUR MEN TO THEIR DEATHS. SEND THEM TO FIGHT A YOUNG CHILD THAT HAS BEEN BURDENED TO HARBOR A DEMON WITHOUT HIS CONSENT. IN FACT, WITHOUT HIS UNDERSTANDING OR EVEN KNOWING OF THE FACT." Atwright wasn't done
Akagi was sweating and now feeling really foolish. Atwright began to calm himself and lower his tone.
" Just so long as you know, YOU can be the one that sent them to the demise know full well they fought an enemy that was a child and only defending himself..." Atwright began to sadden
"...This child saved my daughter's life. He protected my home. He never asked for payment...He never asked for a reason. He just did it. Council...keep in mind that there are two souls that claim residency for that body. One soul is the demon that Akagi wants to butcher so badly. But...the other his a young ninja hopeful with a platinum heart that defends those in need without asking for so much as a word of things." Atwright resumed to his seat
The council was once again moved by Atwright's speech.
"Members of the council...we've heard opinions. Both were valid and made points. We also have reports on the events of last night. Please everyone, now is the time to vote. If you feel Naruto and Jiraiya should be entrusted with the gene-twili key, then please raise your hand. If not, then please keep your hand down." Kamada was calling for an end to this important matter
The members of the council nearly unanimously raised their hands. Even Kamada was with the idea of giving the gene-twili key. In fact, the only objection was Atwright.
"This council as come to the decision to entrust the gene-twil key to Jiraiya and his apprentice, Naruto. This council will now adjourned." Kamada had dismissed the meeting
Atwright was gathering himself up. He felt as thought something great was accomplished this day. And it was. The beginning of securing humanity from Kyuubi started this very day. Kamada walked over to Atwright and put his and on his shoulder
"And that is why you're the best of us." Kamada said as he continued on his way
Atwright left soon after. He wanted to retrieve the gene-twili key as soon as possible so that Naruto, Jiraiya, and now Morrigan could continue on their very important mission.
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The princess had prepared a huge bag. She had plenty of things to put in. She noticed that Naruto left Konoha with little more than the cloths he had on. Everything was doubled. Shampoo, soaps, everything was in twos, packed twice over. She even in her own little perverse way deduced the size of his underwear. But she didn't pack a certain outfit she had bought for him. They were a pair of black and grey fatigue pants and a skin tight black collarless shirt.
Morrigan's thoughts
"Well foxy, I know you won't let me see your body willingly, BUUUUUUUUUUUT!..." she began to get mischievous thoughts
"...you won't have a choice. You'll have to put on the shirt I bought for you...because your t-shirt and orange jacket are going to have a little accident." she had a little idea in mind
Meanwhile, Naruto had just returned to the manor with his new armor firmly secured to his arm. It was truly amazing. His movement was in no way compromised in the least. This little new experiment could very well become the next step in battle ready gear.
"Naruto!" Rina ran up to him and hugged him
Rina immediately caught sight of his liquid armored arm and was drawn to it
"I take it that this is for your oddly colored arm?" Rina began examining the armor
"Yes ma'am" Naruto replied as he was fairly proud of his new attachment and its abilities.
"Well, the princess is in her room. You might want to go see her dear." Rina said as she pushed him toward the stairs.
Naruto didn't really need to be rushed to go see Morrigan. But he allowed Rina to hurry him all the same. He went upstairs and directly to the princess's room. He couldn't wait to show her his new armored sheath. He knocked on the door.
"Princess? Is it alright if I come in?" Naruto asked as he steadily knocked.
Morrigan heard Naruto at the door and figured now was the time to put her plan to work. She hadn't even answered him. Instead, she swiftly opened the door.
"FOXY!" She gave him an enthusiastic hug and kissed him on his cheek
She smiled at him and observed his new armor. She felt it looked fairly flimsy and constraining at the same time.
"Foxy, can this thing really stop the flow of your chakra? Not to mention it looks so damn...well...stiff." she was concerned.
"It definitely works princess. I already try to focus my chakra through it." Naruto started to explain
"Didn't work?"
"Not even a little. And since it's liquid, I can move easily. As if I were wearing nothing at all." Naruto still couldn't believe how cool his armored arm was. He was loving every minute of it.
"Foxy?" Morrigan said sweetly
"Yes?" Naruto answered normally
"Did I hear you call me 'princess'...TWICE?" Morrigan said smiling as she started walking towards him.
Naruto didn't notice the mistake until she had actually said it. He was becoming used to her direct manor and slowly began backing up. He didn't know what to expect of her, but he knew that it possibly wasn't anything good.
"...Um...actually...technically I did but..." He was trying to talk is way out of it as he was now backed up to the bed
"What's this?...Making excuses for it too?" Morrigan was really having fun and still smiling
She pushed Naruto over and evilly grinned. Naruto was sweating. He knew that look in her eyes well. But what he didn't realize was that boys such as he were usually powerless to girls such as her. She then sat onto of him so that he'd have nowhere to run. He could have easily thrown her off. But she knows him. And she knew he wouldn't ever attempt to be forceful upon her. It just wasn't his nature.
Naruto's thoughts
"Why do I always find myself cornered with her... Would Sakura-chan be mad at me?" Naruto was nervous while he contemplated to himself
Morrigan seductively smiled and leaned over to meet his face. She pressed her nose to his neck and began to smell him. She gently rubbed her noses up and down taking in his scent. He was very tense. Her hands pressed onto his chest.
Morrigan's thoughts
"GOTCHA!" Morrigan saw her chance to do what she'd planned
She literally ravaged his jacket and shirt. Naruto was in shock. He looked at Morrigan and she returned the gaze..
Morrigan's thoughts
"...Delicious..." she gazed at his well-toned body. She licked her lips and that didn't go unnoticed.
"Uh...Hungry?" Naruto nervously asked.
Morrigan's thoughts
" VERY!" she had another less than saintly thought.
"Foxy, for the sake of maintaining your innocence, I won't answer that" Morrigan didn't want to compromise his boyish innocence.
She could have gotten off of him at anytime. But she loved his childish nervousness. But she wasn't completely forceful. No matter how much she truly wanted him, she would never make him do something he didn't want to do or wasn't ready for. She did respect him just as much as she loved him.
"Foxy...I'm glad your not like Jiraiya...I really am..." Morrigan said as she got up off of Naruto.
"...Thanks Morrigan-chan..." Naruto was happy to have her around despite her brashness.
Morrigan rolled her eyes and threw the cloths she had bought for him into his face. He pulled them off of his face and stared at them strangely.
"What are these for?" Naruto asked
Morrigan gave him a look that showed she couldn't believe his denseness
"Your shirt and jacket are torn aren't they?" Morrigan countered.
"Thanks to you" Naruto laughed
"I can rip your pants too if you want..." Morrigan said seductively
Naruto knew what she was getting at. He needed to find anything to fend off her flirting.
"Uh...um...what are these pants for?" Naruto shifted the attention to the pants that she had bought along with the black shirt
"Well, you have to match don't you?" Morrigan smiled
Naruto's thoughts
" She's...quite something..."
" Thanks for everything Morrigan..." Naruto said.
Morrigan walked over to him and handed him a piece of paper. It was the letter he was writing to Sakura. Naruto slowly took the letter, never taking his eyes off of the princess
"...Morrigan-chan?..." Naruto was confused
"It's ok foxy...but just so you know...I never...NEVER give up..." Morrigan stated her point
The two made eye contact. They began to reach a new plane of understanding. Before anything else, they were friends. Very good friends. Naruto then turned his attention to the huge bag on the floor.
"What's with that huge backpack Morrigan? Going on a vacation?" Naruto questioned
Morrigan's thoughts
"Guess nobody told him yet...I'll surprise him then" Morrigan thought
"You could say that. Well foxy, I'll meet you downstairs. Could you be a sweetie and bring 'my' bag down with you?" She asked flirting
"Sure thing" He was happy to be of service
She left and closed the door behind her. Naruto began putting on his new threads. He was surprised that Morrigan knew his size so well without even asking him. Once he put them on even he had to admit that they looked pretty damn good and that she had great taste. He then grabbed 'her' bag and proceeded to meet her downstairs.
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On the outskirts of the city, an ever silent ninja stood aside his limping brother. Their mission was indeed a failure. But to Ballistic mime, for now, failure was ok. Acceptable. Unfortunately, they knew that the dark figure who had given them this mission would not take failure so leniently. The two continued on their way back to the prison, prepared as best they could be to face an unknown, more than likely devastating consequence.
To be continued...