A/N - Wow has it ever been a while since I updated this. I hope this chapter was worth the wait! I truly do.

Anywho, a bunch of stuff happens in this chapter and we even get to see a small peek at what Rikku and the gang are up to! Most of the chapter takes place in Kilika, Kilika Woods, and the temple, however.

I'm really quite out of it right now and I'm sore as hell, too. Got my booster shot yesterday morning and I've been feeling like crap ever since. Definitely not fun. x.x

So, whatever. lol. Read on and enjoy!

Chapter 4 – Kilika Woods

Cid felt like banging his head against a wall. He had just received some rather alarming news regarding Naruto and now he had to figure out how to break it to Naruto's lovers. As he sat in his makeshift office, he waited patiently for his daughter and the others to arrive. Dammit boy. You just had to start making waves out there, didn't you?

Moments later, Rikku, Kurenai, Hana (plus the Haimaru triplets), and Shizune entered the room. Motioning for them to sit, he noticed that Kurenai was starting to show physical signs of her pregnancy. It was small, but she had a baby bump forming. Shizune, on the other hand, was simply going through morning sickness. She had found out just last week that she WAS, indeed, pregnant with Naruto's child. She wasn't sure yet how many she was having, but she was certainly happy about it.

Shaking those thoughts off, he began to speak. "I'm sure you're wondering what I've called you here for. Then again, considering it's you four, you probably already know what this is about." Massaging the bridge of his nose, he said, "Well, I've got good news and I've got bad news. We know where Naruto is and where he'll be for the foreseeable future. Bad news? We can't exactly go and 'recover' him."

Before the girls could begin questioning him, he held up his hand to silence them. "Good news is that Naruto is safe and is perfectly healthy. He has even found Yugao, the final member of your group. This next part isn't really good or bad news. Yugao has become one of Yuna's guardians. It would seem that Naruto has forced himself into the group as well as another of Yuna's guardians. So, he has found a way to look after Yuna in his own way."

"Here's the bad news that you're probably not going to like very much. Naruto is already making enemies out of the Church of Yevon and their supporters. When a few of our people asked around the Isle of Besaid, they learned that Naruto had caused quite the commotion. He pretty much publicly announced that he doesn't follow the teachings of Yevon and believes in something else. On top of that, he entered the Cloister of Trials without permission and very well could have caused a number of problems for Yuna."

Sighing heavily, Cid shook his head in mild disbelief. "The vast majority of the people in Besaid do NOT like Naruto. They are calling him a 'bad man' and a 'heretic' and other less kind words." Looking up into their eyes, he continued on. "Together with Yuna and her guardians, Naruto has set forth for Kilika. However…"

"However what Pops? What happened?" Rikku questioned.

"Sin struck again. Kilika Port has been destroyed and hardly anything remains of the village. The last report I received said that Yuna had to perform a sending for the deceased. That was only a few hours ago. I doubt my spies have received my response yet, considering how long it takes to get and receive messages between such faraway places. By the time my spies get my reply, Yuna and her guardians could already be gone from Kilika and on their way to Luca." Cid explained.

Kurenai and the others were relieved that everyone was okay, Naruto especially. However, they still couldn't help but worry about him. Naruto was quite vocal with his beliefs and wouldn't stand people trying to preach the lessons of a false religion to him. Sighing softly, Kurenai looked at Shizune and asked, "Are you still going along to Operation Mi'ihen?"

The black-haired medic nodded and said, "Yes. And before you say anything, I know I'm pregnant. It's still early enough in the pregnancy that I should be okay. I'll still be careful. Besides, Naruto-kun WILL be at Operation Mi'ihen, one way or another. I just hope he doesn't do anything reckless when Sin shows up."

Kurenai and the others looked at Shizune with deadpan stares. Seeing their expressions caused Shizune to let out a rather drawn-out sigh. "Okay, nothing too reckless. We know Naruto-kun has the kind of power needed to at least chase Sin away. Though, now that I think on it…why does Sin keep appearing wherever Naruto-kun goes? With how often he's been in contact with Sin, you'd think he'd have done something by now. So, what's he waiting for, I wonder?"

Hana frowned in thought for a time before saying, "Maybe he can't? Or he's afraid to show the others what he can really do?"

Rikku shook her head at that. "No, Naruto-kun likely wouldn't hesitate to show off a little. I think he hasn't destroyed Sin yet because Sin is the only real link between our two worlds. Maybe he wants to study Sin a bit and see if he can figure something out? Like a way back to your world."

Kurenai frowned in thought for a time before shaking her head negatively. "That plays a part in it, I'm sure. But I get the feeling that there's more to this that we just don't know about. There has to be a reason why Sin shows up practically everywhere Naruto goes. It's an unusual pattern and I think there's far more to this than we could possibly know. The only one with any answers is Naruto-kun." Looking into Shizune's eyes, she said, "When you reunite with him at Operation Mi'ihen, try to get him alone and ask him what's really going on."

Shizune nodded and said, "Of course. But, if we don't manage to defeat Sin, I think I'll tag along as one of Yuna's guardians. We did promise to keep her safe, after all. Besides that, somebody has to try and be there to keep Naruto from doing and saying stupid things."

Cid chuckled and said, "I'll be counting on you to keep Naruto in line. And, when you see my niece, be good to her, okay? She doesn't understand the danger she's in. She's probably still a naïve, innocent little thing that doesn't quite grasp what's expected of her yet."

Shizune smiled at him and said, "We'll take good care of her. I promise." Seeing Cid nod in thanks, she soon turned her attention on Hana. "I know this might be a rushed experience, but we don't exactly have a great deal of time available to us before Operation Mi'ihen. We're going to need to speed up our lessons. Do you think you can keep up?"

Hana nodded and said, "History and mythology and everything comes pretty easy to me. It's the new language that's throwing me off. But I know I can do this."

"Good. Follow me." Shizune said before she turned and left the room.

As soon as they were gone, Cid looked into Kurenai's eyes and said, "I know you wish you could be out there looking for your husband. For right now, let us take care of Naruto and the others. I know you're only about four months along, but I still want you to take care of yourself. Try to remember that it's not just you worrying for your babies. Naruto is probably worried sick about you three. I want him to be able to come home and know that you're as safe as can be."

The raven-haired beauty sighed softly, but nodded her head in understanding. "Of course, Cid. Come on, Rikku. We have some things to talk about." Seeing the nervous expression on Rikku's face, Kurenai smiled disarmingly at her and said, "There's nothing to be scared of. I won't bite you; I promise. I just want to talk."

"O-Of course. See you later Pops!" Rikku exclaimed before she followed Kurenai out of the room.

Once they were gone, Cid let his head hit his desk. Sighing aggravatedly, he mumbled out, "Dammit, boy. I swear to all that is holy that if you do something stupid out there, I'll bring you back just to kick your ass."

Kilika

Naruto groaned as he slowly came to. Slowly opening his eyes, he let out a yawn and began to stretch to work the kinks out of his back and shoulders. The bed wasn't exactly the comfiest he had ever slept in, but considering what the people of Kilika had just been through, he wasn't about to complain. As he went to stand up, he froze upon seeing a pair of feet. Blinking a couple of times, he raised his eyes upwards until he was looking into the face of his apparent roommate. "Um, Yugao? Why are you in my room?"

Yugao smirked and said, "Watching you sleep, of course."

"Uhhh, not to sound rude here, but why exactly?" Naruto questioned unsurely.

The purple-haired woman giggled and said, "I always used to watch over you like this. I just never let you sense me until now. I'm not sure if you remember, but when you were younger, I would do little things every now and then to keep you safe and happy. I may have been in Anbu, but I still cared, and I did whatever I could for you. After all, your mother was my sensei. I learned so much from her. I wanted to pay her kindness forward by watching after her son. So, even if the Hokage may have ordered me otherwise sometimes, I'd always stay and watch over you while you slept. I refused to let anyone harm you."

"I see. I suppose that explains a lot. You were like my guardian angel then." Looking into her eyes, he smirked and said, "And a beautiful one at that. If I had to be stuck in a new world, I'm glad it's with you and the others. I'll still work on a way to get you home, if you want. I know you have your duties to return to, so…"

Yugao walked up to him and began to gently pet his whiskered cheeks. "Aren't you the charmer?" she asked, poking a bit of fun at him. "Don't worry about it, Naruto-kun. Even if you're all grown up now and can take pretty much anyone and everything in a fight, I still plan to take care of you. And I shall continue serving as guardian of your children. I have nothing back in our world that interests me anymore. I'm content to stay right where I am. Though, I suppose finding a way back would be beneficial. Kurenai wants to be reunited with little Mirai, and Hana might want to return home as well. Guess we'll have to play that one by ear."

Naruto went to reply, only for his face to erupt in a blush as Yugao placed a tender kiss upon his forehead. "Y-Yugao?"

The purple-haired beauty giggled and said, "I'm glad you're safe, Naruto-kun. Now come on, we don't want to keep the others waiting." And with that, she left the room, adding a little sway to her hips just to tease Naruto.

Gotta admit, she's got a great ass. Naruto thought to himself with a wry grin. Shrugging his shoulders, he got dressed and proceeded to head downstairs and out of the small, makeshift inn.

Once outside, Naruto saw Datto running up to him. "Hey there, Datto. What's the rush?"

"Cap'n Wakka's waitin' for ya! Don't wanna keep him waiting, yeah?" Datto said before he hurried off.

Naruto shrugged and thought, Guess they're ready to head out then. I'm going to take a quick look around to see how everyone's faring before I catch up to them.

Choosing to forego talking to the person seated nearby, he headed in the opposite direction of Kilika Woods. Approaching the older gentleman nearby, he listened as the man said, "Our loved ones made it to the Farplane with Lady Yuna's help. We are truly grateful for Yevon's blessing. I'm sure my grandchildren made it to the Farplane in peace."

Hearing this, Naruto brought the man into a hug and gently pat his back. "For what it's worth, I'm sorry. No parent, let alone a grandparent, should ever have to watch their children die before them. We'll stop Sin. I promise."

The man hugged Naruto back and nodded slowly before he let the tears fall. The entire time the old man was crying, Naruto just held him close, gently patting his back and soothing him however he could. I swear, I will find a way to get rid of Sin once and for all. Sin will never return once we're through with it.

Once bidding goodbye to the old man, Naruto proceeded in the other direction, choosing to have a look around. Approaching the woman at the end of the wooden walkway, he listened as she said, "I wanted to believe it was just a bad dream. That this was all a dream and when I opened my eyes, everything would be back to normal. But, when morning came, nothing had changed."

Naruto frowned sadly at this and said, "I'm sorry. If words would help, I'd speak 1000 of them. But nothing I say here will help to get through this pain."

The woman nodded in understanding and said, "Thank you regardless."

It was at this point that Naruto noticed a little girl in one of the wrecked houses. Sensing the danger she was in, he leapt inside, grabbed the girl, and quickly leapt back to safety with her in his arms. Setting her down, he watched as she performed the prayer gesture before rushing off. Guess I'll see her later then. He thought with a shrug.

Entering the nearby home, or what remained of it, Naruto approached the woman after collecting three Potions from the nearby chest. "Please excuse him. He's been affected by the toxin. So, if he says anything offensive, don't take it too seriously."

Frowning at this bit of information, Naruto approached the man and listened as he said, "What are you lookin' at? I ain't on display here! Go away, man."

Sighing, Naruto shook his head and muttered, "I feel your pain." Before leaving the home.

Afterwards, he proceeded back along the path before turning and entering the bar. Heh, a place like this is still standing amidst all the wreckage. Not sure whether to be impressed or saddened by that fact.

Shrugging it off, Naruto listened to the man sitting on the floor. "I don't care if there isn't any food. I just want to stay here. I'm scared to even look out at the sea. I can feel it out there, can't you?"

The blonde frowned and shook his head, not even sure what words he could offer that would help the man in his time of need. He didn't even stop to talk to the bar owner. Instead, he noticed the little girl he had saved earlier. Approaching her, he offered her a friendly smile.

"Thanks for saving me. Our house fell down…but my big sister's here, so I'm real happy!" Then, as if she had realized something, she asked, "Hey, are you a blitzer? Good luck! I'm rooting for you!"

Naruto smiled at the youngling and gently patted her atop her head. "I am, indeed. And you're quite welcome. Try to be a little more careful from now on, okay?"

Nodding excitedly, the little girl soon hugged him for a moment in thanks. Naruto returned her hug before he opened the chest for an Ether. This should come in handy.

Leaving the bar, he could see Wakka off to the right looking over the construction and repairs taking place. Deciding he'd talk to Wakka a little later, he turned and approached the old woman running the shop. Looking at what she had for sale, he decided to sell a few pieces of equipment that they really had no use for. Then, taking a look at what she had for sale again, he decided not to buy anything. So, bidding her a good day, he turned and walked away.

Ignoring the Kilika Beasts that were keeping themselves busy nearby, Naruto proceeded down the dock until he was standing beside a man who looked a little lost. "I don't know if it's the toxin, but I can't remember a thing. Like my name, my house…I thought someone might notice me and help me out if I sat here. But no one's paying attention. I guess everyone has their own problems to worry about." Then, as if he realized something, the man continued. "Hey, I may not even be from around here. Maybe I come from someplace far away…" Shrugging, he said, "Who knows?"

Naruto frowned and reached up, gently patting the man's back. "Just take it easy. Don't try to rush the process and don't stress out too much over this. Talk to the people here and learn what you can. That's all you can really do for now. I've got to go pay a visit to a buddy of mine, otherwise I'd chat with you for a while longer. Sorry."

The man nodded in understanding. "No worries. I'll just be here."

Chuckling softly, Naruto turned and proceeded to go and talk with Wakka. "Heya there big guy. How're the repairs coming along?"

The redhead turned and smiled at Naruto. "There you are, sleepyhead. Glad to see you're finally awake. I almost thought we'd lost you for a moment there, ya?"

Naruto chuckled and said, "You won't be getting rid of me quite that easily, I'm afraid."

Laughing, Wakka patted Naruto on the back before he looked to the Aurochs. "Besaid Aurochs, huddle!" As soon as the other players landed next to them, Wakka continued. "On to the temple, where we pray for victory!"

Naruto watched as the Aurochs cheered before hurrying off towards Kilika Woods. As he walked alongside Wakka, Naruto listened to the man as he spoke. "High Summoner Ohalland used to live in the Kilika Temple here. Yep, Lord Ohalland was a great blitzer, you know?"

The blonde nodded and said, "So I've heard. I bet he was a great guy and one heck of a blitzer. I would've loved to have seen him in action."

Wakka chuckled softly and said, "I half-expected you to question me about why we're prayin' for victory and talkin' about blitzball after all that's happened."

Naruto smiled at his friend and said, "After what I've been through…I can understand. I understand it all too well. The people need this. If they can't find enjoyment in the small things, despite Sin and everything that's happened, then they'd really have nothing else to live for. It hurts to admit that, believe me it does. But I understand."

The redhead smiled kindly at Naruto and said, "Well, if you wanna make things better for them, why not start by helping the Besaid Aurochs to win the cup this year, yeah? That'll really give the people something to cheer about."

Chuckling, Naruto patted Wakka on the back and said, "Damn right. We're going to go out there and prove to the world that the Besaid Aurochs are number one this year. There's no stopping us now!" Together, the duo laughed as they walked along. No more words needed to be said at the moment. They were content to enjoy a nice walk into Kilika Woods.

Upon entering Kilika Woods, they saw Yuna and the rest of her guardians waiting for them. Approaching them, Naruto chanced a glance at Yugao and found his mind wandering to when she kissed his forehead. When she smirked at him, he blushed slightly before averting his gaze.

Yuna smiled brightly at her friend and asked, "Are you ready to go? We're sorry to wake you up so early, but…"

"Don't worry about it, Yuna-chan." Naruto said with a smile. "I was just a bit tuckered out from everything that happened yesterday. That's all. I'm feeling a lot better now and I'm raring to go and kick some fiend butt!"

The brunette summoner giggled and said, "I'm glad to hear it. Now come on, we should get moving."

"Of course, Yuna-chan." Naruto said.

As he made to follow after Yuna and the others, he blinked when somebody grabbed his arm. Looking up and into Lulu's eyes, he asked, "What's up Lulu? Did I do something to upset you again?"

The black mage shook her head and said, "No, not necessarily. I just wanted to warn you to be careful. Yuna has heard so many stories about you and what your mother envisioned for you that she's developed something of a fascination with you. You two are growing closer quite quickly. Considering you don't follow the teachings of Yevon, it could be dangerous if she were to enter a relationship with you. I mean you no offense, Naruto. I simply want you to be careful. I don't want anything bad to happen to Yuna because she fell for you."

Naruto frowned for a moment before he reluctantly nodded his head. "I have to admit, you've got a point. I don't want to cause Yuna-chan any trouble. But that doesn't mean I won't be here for her and be her friend. I'll also try to tone down the whole 'I believe in something else' thing, since that seems to be a big no-no in this world. Back where I'm from, we worshipped different gods and followed different teachings." Sighing aggravatedly to himself, he looked seriously into Lulu's eyes and said, "I just hope the people of this world will eventually learn a little something called 'acceptance'. We're all allowed to be different. We should all be treated as equals, even if we follow different teachings. Proclaiming me as a heretic because I don't follow the teachings of Yevon and ostracizing me just show me that the people of this world have a LONG way to go before they grow up and mature as people."

Sighing again, Naruto looked towards Yuna and the others, who had apparently been waiting on the two of them. "Lulu, I am not a bad person. I had a horrible life growing up. I was lied to by the Third Hokage on numerous occasions. I was abused and mistreated. Oftentimes, I would just pray for Kami to end it all or for the Shinigami to just spirit me away into the afterlife. All because people could accept me as a person instead of some mindless monster. I would never have been truly accepted as I am by the people of my world. I had honestly hoped this world would be different. But so far, the only ones that have been truly accepting of me have been the Al Bhed…and Yuna-chan."

Looking into Lulu's eyes again, he said, "So, no matter what, I'm going to stay near that radiant light of hers and be as true a friend to her as I can possibly be. I am in a relationship with two other women already and I have no intention of trying to seduce Yuna-chan or win her over in any way. I just…I want to stay close to that one light, that ray of hope. And no matter what, I'll protect her from everything and anything that might want to hurt her in any way. Besides that, she got to know my mom where I couldn't. I never got to see her or learn from her…" Shrugging his shoulders, he smiled awkwardly at Lulu and said, "I want to hear as much about my mother from her as she wants to hear stories about my adventures and my world from me. I think we're entitled to at least that, don't you think?"

Lulu frowned sadly at him and said, "For what it's worth…I am sorry, Naruto. I admit, I was a bit hasty in judging you." Seeing him about to say something, she flicked him lightly on the nose. "Zip it." Seeing him smirk at her, she let out an aggravated sigh before she decided to continue. "Anyways, I just want you two to be careful. There's a good chance that if the maesters of Yevon learn about you…"

Naruto nodded and said, "I getcha, Lulu. I'm the 'heretic' and, should Yuna fall for me and enter a relationship with me, they could use it against her to have her excommunicated or something. I understand, believe me. I'll try to stress upon her the fact that I'm in a relationship with two women already, and potentially with a third. I don't want to cause Yuna-chan any problems. But I will stay by her side and help her to defeat Sin once and for all. We'll figure out some way to prevent Sin from ever coming back. That's my promise to you and them. And I never break a promise if I can help it."

The beautiful black mage smiled at him and said, "Well, thank you, Naruto. Now come, we've kept the others waiting quite long enough, don't you think?"

Chuckling softly, Naruto walked with her back towards the others. Upon reaching them, Wakka asked, "So, there some reason you two were chatting away back there?"

Naruto shrugged and said, "She just wanted to warn me about something. We were trying to hash things out between us. I think we've come to understand each other just a bit better now."

Lulu smirked and said, "Indeed. Now come, let us be on our way."

Proceeding onwards a few feet, they suddenly came under attack by a Ragora. Lulu smiled at Kimahri and told him to go ahead and use Lancet on it so he could learn the fiend's abilities. Naruto couldn't help but grin at the prospect, wishing he could do the same. Maybe someday. He thought to himself.

It was at this point that they saw another message on a nearby stone written in the Al Bhed language. Once again, Naruto read it aloud for them.

' s

U'

Blinking in confusion, Naruto took a moment to think on it before his eyes lit up in realization. Quickly taking a notebook out of one of his pockets, he jotted down the letters and said, "Kilika and Bikanel join as one. I'm willing to bet that we'll find another message like this somewhere in the deserts of Bikanel. I have no idea what it means yet, but I'm sure it'll make sense once we find the second message."

Yuna's eyes lit up and she said, "Oooh! That sounds so exciting! I wonder what the message will read once we figure it out?"

Wakka blinked and asked, "But…why would we go to Bikanel in the first place, yeah? There's nothing out that way, as far as I can imagine."

Naruto shook his head and said, "I guess we'll have to wait and see. If we end up there at some point, then that's cool. If not, oh well. Y'know?"

Seeing the others nod in understanding, Naruto led the group straight along the path and right towards a mighty monster that towered over them. Before they could move any closer, both Luzzu and Gatta blocked their way. "The fiend before us is Ochu, Lord of the Wood. We've had trouble with this one before. Remember, discretion is the better part of valor."

Naruto smirked at them and looked at the mighty Ochu. "In other words, kick its ass and have some fun. I like that idea!"

When Gatta went to protest such a stupid action, Luzzu shook his head and said, "Let them try."

"Fine. But I still say they're needlessly risking their lives." Gatta said petulantly.

"Noted. For now, let us watch."

As they approached Lord Ochu, they each readied themselves for a fierce battle. The moment Lord Ochu charged at them, Naruto quickly grabbed Yuna around the waist and hopped back, away from Ochu's tentacles. Setting her down, he patted her gently on the head before he, Wakka, and Kimahri went on the attack.

Seeing as Lulu would be able to help them tremendously with her Fire spell, Yugao quickly casted Haste on her, using what little magic she had learned upon arriving in this strange, new world. Thanking her friend and fellow guardian, Lulu began to bombard Lord Ochu with fire magic. Naturally, this enraged the large plant-like creature, and it began to lash out even more than before.

When Kimahri was struck by one of the tentacles and collapsed to one knee, poison wracking his body, Naruto called out to Yuna to heal him. So, while she took care of that, Naruto, Wakka, and Yugao kept Lord Ochu pinned down, landing attack after attack on the blasted thing.

Once she had finished healing Kimahri, Yuna turned and called out for everyone to back away. As soon as they were clear, she summoned Valefor and had her unleash her Energy Blast overdrive to finish the mighty creature off.

As soon as the fight was finished, they breathed a sigh of relief. However, Yuna looked curiously into Naruto's eyes and asked, "You weren't fighting at your full strength, were you? You could have easily finished Lord Ochu off. Why didn't you?"

Before he could answer, Luzzu and Gatta jogged up to them. Gatta was quite excited about seeing such a magnificent display of combat prowess and pure power they wielded. Luzzu simply offered them a smile and congratulations.

"We should fight too, sir!" Gatta said, looking into Luzzu's eyes.

Luzzu shook his head and said, "We'll have our chance another time. For now, let us resume our duties." Turning to Naruto at this point, Luzzu walked up to him and handed him an Elixir. "Thank you, Naruto Uzumaki. I'm looking forward to seeing what you can do firsthand, someday."

Naruto nodded in thanks and said, "We'll get to see soon enough, I'm sure."

"That we will. Take care." And with that, the redhead turned and walked off with Gatta.

Once they were out of sight, Naruto smiled at the others and was about to ask something, only to catch Yuna's stern gaze. Sighing softly, he looked into her eyes and began to explain. "Yuna-chan, if I go around killing every enemy we come across willy-nilly, none of you will ever have the chance to grow. Right now, I want to fight at your side rather than forcing all of you to rely on me for everything. I want to be equals in this adventure of ours."

Yuna walked up to him and looked up into his eyes. After a moment, she reached up and placed a hand on his cheek. "Just promise me that if there's ever an opponent that might be too much for us, that you'll unleash your true power and defeat it before anything bad can happen? Please?"

Blushing a bit at the warm gesture, he soon nodded and offered her an apologetic smile. "Of course, Yuna-chan. I refuse to let anything harm any of you. Umm…" Sighing softly, he decided to just get it out of the way. "Yuna-chan, we need to sit down and talk with everyone soon. I have something important to discuss with all of you. So maybe soon, we can, um…sit and talk? I'm not sure when we'll have the time to do that, unfortunately."

Yuna frowned but nodded in understanding. "Whatever you have to say, we'll discuss it after we've reached the temple." She said before hugging him. "I think Lady Kushina would have been so proud of you."

Chuckling softly, Naruto hugged his friend back and said, "Thank you. I hope I've turned into the kind of man she always hoped I'd be."

The brunette smiled up at him and nodded her head determinedly. "You're a good man, Naruto Uzumaki. Now come, we should hurry along."

Chuckling softly, Naruto nodded and began to explore the forest with his friends. Approaching some Crusaders off to the west, they listened as the sentry gave her orders to her team. Turning to them, they chatted with her for a time, thanking her when she gave them a remedy and a NulBlaze Shield. Thanking her for the items, Naruto and the others proceeded along the path once more. They knew they should head for the temple, but they wanted to explore the forest for a bit longer. You never know what you might find just by looking around, after all.

When they approached another sentry, slightly northeast from the one they had just spoken with, they chatted with her for a time before the sentry gave them a Hi-Potion. Thanking her, they proceeded to continue on with their exploration of the Kilika Woods.

After collecting what they wanted/needed from Kilika Woods, they proceeded up to the temple grounds, where they found the Besaid Aurochs waiting for them. Ignoring them for the moment, Naruto turned his attention to Wakka when he began to speak. "These stone steps have a history, you know?" Looking up at the steps that led towards the temple, he said, "Yep. Lord Ohalland trained here at his peak."

It was at this point that Naruto heard some sinister laughter coming from the Aurochs. Looking towards them, he quirked a brow at the challenging grins they were giving him. "I see. You want to race. Do you really think you can beat me?"

"Won't know until we try, yeah?" Datto questioned, the grin never leaving his face.

Shrugging his shoulders, Naruto stepped up beside Wakka and waited for the signal to begin. When Wakka asked Yuna to signal the start of the race for them, they all watched as she ran off ahead, giggling the entire time. However…

"Something's wrong." Naruto said before he quickly hurried after Yuna, pulling her back against him. When they saw people running down the stairs, scared to death of something, Naruto put Yuna back on her feet and said, "Sorry about that, Yuna-chan. I sensed danger up ahead. Are you okay?"

Blushing lightly, the summoner nodded and said, "I am. Thank you, Naruto-kun."

"Of course. Now, let's see what's got everyone so spooked, hm?" Naruto suggested as he and the others ascended the stairs. What they saw caused Naruto to scowl slightly. "A Sinspawn. Wonderful."

As they took their positions in the center of the makeshift battlefield, they quickly realized that no attacks could pierce through the Sinspawn's hide, except for Kimahri's. They also quickly realized that the tentacles behind them would prove troublesome if they weren't dealt with handily. So, while Kimahri and Wakka (using his Silence Attack ability) focused on the Sinspawn itself, the rest of them dealt with the two tentacles.

Once those had been destroyed, they turned their attention onto Sinspawn Geneaux and watched as it unfurled itself, revealing unto them its true form. Thankfully, their attacks could actually wound it now, but Lulu's Fire spell continued to be their saving grace in this fight, just as it had been when fighting Lord Ochu in the forest.

Things were going wonderfully against the Sinspawn, especially when compared to the last Sinspawn he had fought. However, in what he could only assume was an act of desperation, the Sinspawn locked into Yuna and went to attack her. Quickly using the Replacement Technique to swap places with her, he raised his blade and cleaved off the creature's outreached appendage. Quickly forming a Big Ball Rasengan in his hand, he attacked the mighty creature, ending its existence once and for all.

Wakka walked up and pat Naruto on the back gently. "Man, you really handled yourself well there, yeah? Keep this up and you'll nail this guardian thing down pat."

Naruto nodded in thanks before he turned his gaze to Yuna. "How are you holding up, Yuna-chan? Are you hurt?"

Yuna shook her head and said, "I'm fine, thanks to you. Are you sure you're alright, though? You could have been hurt!"

Yugao giggled a bit as she rubbed Yuna's head for a moment. "You'll get used to it soon enough. Naruto-kun does reckless things like that all the time. It usually turns out just fine, so there's usually no need to worry. Still…"

Naruto sighed and rubbed the back of his head. "Yeah, yeah, I know. Try to take it easy and don't scare everyone. I hear ya."

Yugao smiled pleasantly at him and said, "Good. Now come, let's get a move on." And with that, they each resumed their trek up the stairs to Kilika Temple.

As they ascended the stairs, Wakka looked at Naruto and asked, "So, they got fiends where you come from?"

Naruto shook his head and said, "None that I can recall. There are a variety of dangerous creatures and people, but no fiends to speak of. At least, not until Sin attacked and whisked us away here, to Spira. I'd say it was a peaceful world…but there was always violence, greed, envy…people were horrible there. I've been looking forward to starting over here, in Spira. But…"

Yugao frowned and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Just give it time, Naruto-kun. Once Sin is gone, we can all look forward to settling down and having some peace and quiet finally. It will be worth it, I assure you."

"Thanks, Yugao. But…" Looking into her eyes, he took a breath before looking around at everyone in the group. "Before we go to the temple, there's something I need to tell you."

Wakka frowned and folded his arms across his chest. "What's got you feelin' so gloomy, eh?"

Naruto looked past the out at the ocean in the distance. "My mom and Sin are connected in some way. Whenever Sin is around, I can always sense my mom inside or…or something. I don't understand it too well, and I know it doesn't make sense, but I swear my mom is alive inside Sin or something. Besides that…Sin is the only link between our worlds. I want to open a gateway, of sorts, so I can bring Kurenai's child here, to Spira. And if Hana wants to go home, I'll let her go as well. I just need to learn how Sin is capable of traversing the worlds the way it does. And…until then, I can't kill Sin. Otherwise, I'd unleash my full power and destroy it. But…"

Everyone's eyes were wide. After a time, Lulu asked, "Are you certain of this? Your mother is still alive inside of that thing?"

The blonde nodded and said, "Yes. At least, she's alive in some capacity. I've spoken with Kurama, the being living inside of me, and even he's not sure what's going on. I just wish I knew what to do. I know we need to defeat Sin, and I know I promised to find a way to get rid of Sin for good…but…"

Wakka walked up and squeeze Naruto's other shoulder. "Naruto, if this means so much to you, we'll all help you to learn what's goin' on, yeah? Maybe there is somethin' we can do. You never know until you try, right?"

Yuna nodded and said, "Whatever it takes, I'll help reunite you with your mother. But, um…do…do you plan to leave us someday, Naruto-kun?"

Realizing how concerned she was about that possibility, Naruto smiled at her and said, "I'm going to make a life here in Spira. I have no intention of ever going back to the Elemental Nations. I just want to reunite Kurenai-chan with her baby and get Hana home. So, whether you guys like it or not, you're stuck with me."

"I'm so glad." Yuna said, only to blush in embarrassment. "Erm, I mean…umm…"

Lulu giggled softly and said, "You really have grown quite attached to him already, haven't you, Yuna?"

Blushing even worse, Yuna turned away and huffed. "So what if I have? I'm eager to get to know Lady Kushina's son. I want to hear his stories about his world. I want to know what he's done and understand what kind of person he truly is. And Naruto-kun probably wants to learn as much about his mother as he can. It's a give-and-take relationship."

Chuckling to himself, Naruto walked up to Yuna and placed a hand atop her head. "It's okay, Yuna-chan. I understand, believe me. Now come, we should get a move on." He said before he led the group up and onto the temple grounds.

Nearby, he saw the Aurochs doing their stretches once again. Shrugging, he approached Datto and listened as he said, "You sure are talented, man. Playing blitzball AND fighting like that!"

Chuckling a bit, Naruto rubbed at the back of his head for a moment. "To be honest, back home there was no blitzball. So I had to pick it up pretty quickly if I wanted to play the game sometime. I've only been here for a few years, which isn't exactly a lot of time to get good at the game." He said with a chuckle. "As for fighting, that's something I've been doing for a very long time now."

"I hear ya. I mean, I came here last year to pray for victory, but we lost in the first round. I guess I didn't pray hard enough, ya?" Datto said.

Naruto shook his head, but didn't say anything in response. He didn't want to upset the poor man or the people of the temple, after all. So, leaving him and Letty alone, he approached a man walking around nearby. "I hear the Crusaders are going to fight Sin without the aid of a summoner. Heh, they've got another thing coming. Haven't they ever heard of divine retribution?"

Frowning at the man, the blonde said, "Well, at least they're trying to find some way to stop Sin once and for all. They're risking their lives to try and make the world a better place. To give people like you hope and inspire you all to greatness."

The man stared hard into Naruto's eyes and said, "They're fools, the lot of them."

Naruto wanted to punch the smug bastard, but decided against it. Instead, he took in a deep breath and released it slowly. "And you're a hopeless asshole. Goodbye." And with that, he walked away.

As they approached the temple itself, the Luca Goers came out and 'greeted' them quite rudely. Wakka, deciding to be courteous, decided to ask, "You here to pray for victory, too?"

The Luca Goers chuckled darkly before one of them asked, "Us? Pray? Who needs to pray? The Luce Goers always win!"

Wakka frowned in confusion and asked, "Then why are you here?"

"We've been praying for some actual competition this year." One of the men said.

"So, what's your goal this time? You gonna 'do your best' again?" Letting out a brief chuckle, the man continued saying, "It's too bad your best just isn't good enough! Why even bother showing up?"

Naruto quirked a brow at them and asked, "Okay, I just have to ask. What's with the huge sticks up your asses? Did your little love buddies play a little too rough with you and now you're here to nurse your bruised egos? What, did you guys forget the safe word?"

Despite herself, Yuna couldn't help but giggle. The Luca Goers, on the other hand, scowled at Naruto before turning their gaze onto Wakka. "Who's this loser? He your new player? Sure as hell doesn't look like much. And he's got quite the mouth on him, too."

Naruto smirked and said, "I'm going to play for the Aurochs this year, and I'm going to ensure we win the tournament as well. And, if you were smart, you'd know to forfeit when it comes time to facing me. I don't intend to take it easy on you. Besides, with Wakka beside me, you can't possibly win. But go ahead and try. If you really think you're so unbeatable and oh so perfect, that'll make crushing you all the sweeter. Now, do be good little lambs and shoo, would you? You're stinking up the place."

The leader, Bickson, glared hatefully into Naruto's eyes and said, "You'd best watch your attitude with me, boy. Not only am I a better player than you could ever hope to be, but I can beat the snot out of you right here and now."

Quirking a brow, Naruto said, "You know, as much as I'd just love to see you try, we do have some business to take care of here. Such as getting Yuna-chan through the Cloister of Trials so she can pray for guidance again. Do you really want to get in our way, knowing you'd be impeding her progress?"

Bickson and his fellow teammates scowled and made to walk past them. However, he paused as he was walking by Naruto. "This isn't over." He said before leaving the temple grounds.

"So those are the Luca Goers, huh? Man, won't they be surprised when the Besaid Aurochs take the trophy this year?" Naruto said with a chuckle.

Wakka smirked at Naruto and patted him on the back. "I've never seen anyone get under their skin like that before. You sure that was such a good idea?"

The whiskered man shrugged and said, "I just hate having to deal with people like that. They remind me WAAAY too much of people like Sasuke Uchiha, Neji Hyuga, Kiba Inuzuka…the list goes on. And when things don't go their way, they get pissed off and lash out at pretty much anyone and anything in the vicinity. I hate arrogant punks like them."

"I see. You'll have to tell us about those three sometime, brudda. For now, let's get inside and get this trial underway." Wakka said before leading the party inside of the temple.

Shortly after entering the temple, Wakka walked off with Lulu and Yuna to go and pray for Lord Ohalland to guide the Besaid Aurochs to victory this year. Kimahri just stood off to the side, not a word being said from him. So, turning to Yugao, Naruto decided to ask, "Yugao…why did you kiss me before?"

The purple-haired kunoichi smirked at him and said, "I used to kiss you on the forehead each night, hoping you would have sweet dreams if I did. Naruto-kun, I care about you. That's why I am staying here. I want to remain close to you."

The whiskered youth nodded, but still frowned in thought. "But…I'm not a kid anymore. I'm an adult and I've even, erm…I've gotten Kurenai-chan pregnant. I'm going to be a father. You don't…"

Yugao sighed and placed a finger against Naruto's lips to silence him. "As you grew up and I got to know you better, I grew to care a great deal more about you than I had originally intended to. I was quite in love with Hayate-kun, but a piece of my heart was always with you. After his death, I redoubled my efforts to watch over and protect you. Then you stopped Pain and even managed to convince him to revive everyone he had killed. And despite all of that, in your weakened state, you fought against Sin to protect the people that shunned you and mistreated you all your life."

Looking seriously into his eyes, she said, "Naruto-kun, I refused to let you bear that burden alone. Your actions, your every emotion, everything about you, just drew me towards you. And…I've been wanting to do this since we met again in Besaid."

Before Naruto could utter a word, Yugao leaned in and pressed her lips to his. As they kissed, Naruto could sense the slight jealousy coming from Yuna, but he put that to the side in favor of returning Yugao's kiss. When they parted, he blushed and said, "W-Wow."

Yugao smirked at him and leaned in close, whispering to him, "Just wait until it's time for that next step in our relationship. I'll show you such a good time that's nothing like what Kurenai and Shizune could ever do for you."

That did it. Naruto turned so red that steam was practically blowing out of his ears. Within moments, he had fainted. Giggling to herself, Yugao turned to face Yuna and grinned at her.

Yuna pouted cutely at her, but didn't say a word. Instead, she walked over to Naruto and kneeled down, placing his head on her lap. Feeling curious about something, she began to gently stroke his whisker marks. When he began to purr, she giggled to herself. "That's so cute."

"Indeed, it is." Yugao said, smirking down at the younger male. "I used to do that all the time when he was a child. He never found out I did that, but it was still adorable."

It was at this point that both a summoner and her guardian came out of the Cloister of Trials and approached them. Naruto opened his eyes at this point and stood up, helping Yuna up as well. Neither of them said a word as the woman asked, "A summoner, are you?"

Yuna nodded and said, "My name is Yuna—from the isle of Besaid."

The woman introduced herself as Dona. She then proceeded to say, "So, you're High Summoner Braska's daughter. That's quite a name to live up to. My, my, my… And all these people are your guardians? My, what a rabble! As I recall, Lord Braska only had two guardians. Quality of quantity, my dear. Whatever were you thinking? I have need of only one guardian. Right, Barthello?"

Yuna, in a rare show of anger, scowled at Dona and said, "I only have as many guardians as there are people I can trust. I trust them all with my life! To have so many guardians is both a joy and an honor! Even more so than being my father's daughter. Of course, I would never think of questioning your ways, either. So, Lady Dona, I ask that you please leave us in peace."

Naruto smirked and thought, Damn. Kitty's got some claws. Rawr.

Dona scowled for a moment before turning her gaze onto him. Eying him curiously, she soon said, "You look capable, at the very least. What's your name?"

Naruto quirked a brow for a moment before he shrugged. "Naruto Uzumaki. Kushina Uzumaki was my mother."

Dona's eyes widened in recognition of the name. "I have heard many things about Lady Kushina. She was a powerful and wise woman. It would seem you have some big shoes to fill as well." Looking him over appreciatively, Dona then asked, "Yuna has quite enough guardians, don't you think? Why not join me?"

When Dona licked her lips in delight, Naruto's eyes went wide, and he felt like he needed to call an adult. "Um, while I appreciate the offer, I'm afraid I must decline. Yuna-chan is a dear friend and I have every intention of helping her see her journey through to its completion."

"A shame, then." Stepping closer, she raised her hand and placed it on his chest. Feeling over his compact muscles through his shirt and then running her hands over his abs, she looked deep into his eyes and said, "I'm sure I could have shown you a real nice time."

Blushing furiously once again, Naruto tried to stammer out some kind of response, only for words to fail him. Seeing the state he was in, Yuna wrapped her arms possessively around Naruto's arm and said, quite angrily, "He's mine! I'm not just going to give him up to you like that! Now back off, please!"

Dona quirked a brow at Yuna before shrugging and walking off with Barthello. Once she was gone, the brunette huffed angrily before looking into Naruto's eyes. "Naruto-kun? Are you okay now?"

Naruto nodded slowly and said, "Yeah, thanks for that, Yuna-chan. I wasn't expecting something like that. That definitely caught me off guard. Sorry about that."

Yugao smirked to herself as she walked up to them. "What's this about Naruto being yours?" she teased.

Yuna's face went beet red, and she tried to think of something to say. Unable to formulate any kind of response, she hurried up the stairs and into the Cloister of Trials.

Chuckling to themselves, all of Yuna's guardians followed after her, eager to get this trial out of the way so they could get a move on. They still had quite the long journey ahead of them, after all.

A/N - And that's the chapter! Hopefully you enjoyed it! If you didn't, I apologize. lol

Anywho, next chapter will deal with the Cloister of Trials for Kilika Temple. Then we'll get to go to Luca and enjoy our first blitzball game! Woot woot! lol. That should be an interesting scenario to try and write. I'm still debating on if Naruto should get the Jecht Shot or something else. Either way, he'll be a real force to be reckoned with in the game of blitzball.

I have no idea what I'll work on next. I'm tempted to write a new chapter for Ultimate SOLDIER finally, buuut...I dunno. lol. New Love is at the bottom of the list on my profile page, so I might try to work on that next. I honestly have no idea at this point. I guess we shall have to wait and see!

Again, hope you enjoyed the chapter.

Oh! Before I nod off for the night, I have a question for you fine ladies and gentlemen of Class 1A! Or...whatever. XD

Should Lulu be added to the harem as well? Or should she stay with Wakka? 'Cause I'll be honest here. I was never a fan of the Wakka x Lulu pairing. *shrugs* Just didn't feel right to me, you know? So that's why I'm asking. It'd be awesome to make her a part of Naruto's harem in this story.

Actually, now that I think on it, are there any other girls from FFX you'd like to see added to the harem? 'Cause I dunno who to add really. XD

Okay, now I'm done. Thanks for reading peopleheads!