Chapter 2
"Yatta! I did it, Itachi-sensei!" Naruto tackled Itachi to the ground in a soggy heap.
Itachi didn't bother to dodge. He learnt the hard way when he first avoided one of her hugs and accepted being covered in lake water. He looked up at her grinning face and patted her soaking hair, "You did well, Naruto. You picked up water walking rather fast."
"Yeah, well having fireballs being sent my way sure is motivation," She laughed cheerfully and got up. Giving Itachi a hand and gratefully took the towel he handed her. "What's next, Itachi-sensei?"
"You can continue running around the lake until I say stop. Build up your chakra control and keep this–" He stuck a leaf to her forehead, "On there. Go on," He urged and chuckled when she grumbled at him but did as she was told. It had been a month since he started training her and she was a fast learner. She picked certain things up faster than others and was a hard worker. He had to force her to stop at times but Itachi found the blonde girl a wonderful student. Once a week he made a report to the Hokage and let the Hokage know that he had to teach Naruto how to read and write. Understandably, the Hokage was furious but thankful for Itachi for taking up the mantle. Itachi didn't mind at all. He was having fun with Naruto and she knew how to cheer him up whenever she felt he was upset. Itachi did find her sensory ability hard to get around but appreciated her help nonetheless. From what he knew, he was the only one the Hokage had told about Naruto's dreams and to ask her about them when she woke up from a hard day's training. Sometimes she met the Nidaime Hokage and sometimes she didn't. The Hokage had explained to him not to let her know of the man's true identity until the Hokage figured out what was going on. For now, it was just a boy Naruto dreamed about.
Hearing a caw, Itachi looked up and saw a messenger bird and sighed. "Naruto!" He called out, gesturing for her to come back. "I have to go out on a mission," He chuckled when she pouted, "Continue the training I've given you and when I get back we'll do a review, okay."
"But Itachi-sensei~" She whined, "We're just getting to the good bits."
"All forms of training are good bits," He redirected, lifting his hand and before he knew it, he poked her forehead. He was stunned by his action but kept it hidden as she giggled and rubbed her forehead. "Be good and don't give your teacher a hard time,"
"What if they're mean to me? Can I prank them?"
Itachi hummed, "If you get caught then there will be a punishment involved," Not seeing any harm with her pranks, he approved. She made some elaborate traps when she puts her mind to it. "If you don't then I will teach you about making real traps."
"Yatta!" Naruto cheered, "I'll do it, dattebayo!"
Itachi nodded, "I have to go now but this training ground will always be free for you to use. Take the time to work on your shuriken and kunai jutsu. Also, don't wear yourself out. You have to keep healthy and eat the vegetables I got you." He saw her cringe and pulled at her cheek playfully, "Eat your veggies, Uzumaki."
"Ow ow ow I will~" Naruto swore and rubbed her stinging cheek. "Just you watch, Itachi-sensei, I'll ace my prank and I'll master everything you've taught me."
"Those are big words, Naruto," Itachi warned, patting her head before he disappeared in a flock of crows.
Naruto huffed as Itachi left and returned to running around on the lake. She let her mind wander, recalling her Gramps words to be careful when talking with her friend from her dreams. The big one was to not talk too much about the village or bring up any last names. Naruto found it odd but she believed and trusted him. She hadn't seen Tobi in her dreams for the past couple of days but she hoped that her dream friend was okay. Even though he wasn't real, he was still her friend; even when he was being mean to her.
Too focused on her mind, Naruto didn't see the person in front of her till the last second and screamed, passing through the person and fell into the lake. Naruto shuddered at the encompassing cold feeling and pushed herself to the surface and coughed out the water that she swallowed. "Y-you bastard…" She coughed more before glaring at the person standing on the lake before her. "What the hell are you doing here, Tobi-chama?" She hissed as she pulled herself out of the lake and stood upon it. Still glaring at the boy.
Tobirama folded his arms as he looked around the training grounds. It looked like a nice place to train, "How am I supposed to know? I went to bed and woke up here. What is this place?"
Naruto was thoroughly confused, "A-ah we're inside my village. This is one of the private training grounds." Naruto looked down at his odd attire, she had only seen the rich folk wear such clothes but it wasn't as pretty and decorated. "What the heck are you wearing?"
Tobirama looked down at his sleepwear, "This is a yukata. I wear this to bed. What are you wearing?" He looked at her bright orange attired as his lips formed a hard line.
"Clothes," She deadpanned, "Maybe I'm going crazy. Usually, I see you when I fall asleep. Not the other way around."
"You are crazy for wearing such unsightly clothing," He commented, not flinching when she punched him, only for her hand to phase through him. He got used to her outburst quite easily. "Your village seems rather...peaceful." Although he couldn't seem much, a village's training grounds spoke a million words.
"Yeah I guess so," Naruto left the lake and grabbed the towel to dry off. "Ah! What have you been doing lately, Tobi-chama? I haven't seen you in a few days."
"Days?" Tobirama frowned, "Naruto, I haven't seen you in a year."
"Ehhh!" She hollered, dropped her towel in shock, "No way! It's only been four days for me. Damn it, that makes you another year older."
"I've always been older than you," He commented, stepping onto the land and took in her appearance. It was true, he hadn't seen her in a year yet she hadn't aged a day. A few days for her had turned into a year for him. No matter what theories he came up with, none of them made sense.
Naruto scowled, "Fair point, dattebayo." She took a sip from her canteen. "So," She glanced over to him and saw the slight difference. He had gotten taller and seemed more serious, "What happened?"
Tobirama sat down, dipping his legs into the water. Surprised to be able to feel the coolness of the lake on his skin. "Missions. Fighting. Arguments. The fighting has definitely gotten worse."
Naruto joined Tobi, "Did you always want to be a shinobi?"
"I was born into it. There was no choice given, it was expected." He said almost bitterly. "Being a civilian isn't any safer. There is always danger unless the fighting stops. We look past the anger and hate and set down some rules to live harmoniously. A world where children aren't sent out to their deaths and aren't honoured when they are struck down for being a true shinobi."
Naruto hummed, "I don't know some of the words you're using but I think I understand. It must be hard for you since you come from a big family. I know what it's like to move past the hate but sometimes," Naruto took a deep breath, "Sometimes it doesn't work like that. Sometimes your emotions get in the way you end up adding to that cycle. It's not an easy thing."
Tobirama looked to Naruto in a new light. Always believing her to be a naive idiot. "You're rather insightful for a child."
"You're a child too!" She bristled, "Besides, I've been watching people for a long time. When nobody wants anything to do with you, watching is all I can do." She saw the hard look in Tobi's eyes and waved her hands, "It's not bad. Itachi-sensei says that my observations skills are really good. It helps when I act like an idiot cause then they're not suspicious of me."
"You are an idiot," Tobirama pointed out as the metal canteen phased through his head. "However, at times you can be not an idiot."
Naruto gave a cheeky smile, "Thanks for the compliment, Tobi-chama."
"It's -chan," He pointed out, feeling them fall in the familiar pattern. Despite the year that passed for him, it felt like they had never been apart. "And don't expect any more. Don't want your head getting bigger than it already is."
"My head is not big, Hedgehog." She hissed, about to chew him out when she heard her name being called. Her eyes lit up as she saw the Hokage enter the training grounds, "Ji-chama!" She called out happily, "Where's your hat, Ji-chama?" She asked, skipping over to him and tackled him into a tight hug. She loved giving hugs.
Hiruzen chuckled, hugging Naruto back. "It's too beautiful of a day to be covering my head, Naru-chan. I came to check on you. Make sure you're not training yourself into the ground."
Naruto groaned, "That was one time, Ji-chama, I'm being responsible now." She placed her hands on her hips and gave him a stern look.
"Should this old man be smoking?" Tobirama appeared by Naruto. Surprised that she didn't react to him as he believed she would. However, he narrowed his eyes when the old man looked at his blonde friend expectantly.
"Naru-chan, how about we get some ramen?" Hiruzen asked, already knowing what was going on here before he arrived. "Itachi-kun told me some good news about your chakra control."
"Ramen!" Naruto said cheerfully.
A full year had passed before I saw her again. I went to sleep and woke up watching her train. The idiot didn't notice me at first until I walked in front of her and she had the nerve to mouth off at me. I understood why. Naruto believed a few days had passed, whereas, I spent the past year wondering what had happened. She appeared fine from the last time I saw her. Still hot headed but I learnt something new about her. She was very observant. I had a feeling she knew that something was making me restless but she didn't pry. I doubt she would. She had a habit of hesitating whenever we met.
For the past year, whenever I had spare time, I would look into how our situation worked. So far, I've come across nothing. Just mindless theories. However, due to meeting her again, I can confirm that she is not a ghost. I met the man she affectionately calls 'Ji-chama', no matter how many times I correct her she still uses the incorrect term. I believe the old man to be hiding something but I don't make a comment as Naruto rambles on about different flavoured ramen she wants to eat. However, I can conclude that they do not appear as relatives and I touched him to feel for his chakra and it was nothing like Naruto's chakra. Naruto is adopted. Neither seems to mind.
The old man helped Naruto grab her items. She looked over and smiled at me. I waved farewell when I could feel myself being shaken awake. Before I know it, I can see Hashirama's face looking down at me with a wide grin that reminded me much of Naruto.
Hiruzen looked over to the spot Naruto was looking at. This would be the first and only time that his sensei appeared in their time from what he read. He knew not to interfere with their friendship lest he changed the outcome of their present. However, Hiruzen would make sure that Naruto was at least safe and give her a good talk about what happened when she was older.
1 year later: Naruto
"Stargazing is a lot better than cloud watching," Naruto pointed out, laying down on the grass next to Shikamaru and Choji. Having snuck out of school a few minutes earlier.
Shikamaru yawned, "Can't say I've star gazed. I'm usually in bed to even bother to look at them."
Choji munched on his snacks happily, "Ne, Naruto, have you been training? You took out Sakura in no time today,"
Naruto bolted up with a wide grin, "Yup! I'm getting stronger but man, I wish I lost. Hearing her bitch makes my ears ring. I can still feel them ringing." She covered her ears with a groan as her two companions laughed.
"I've been wondering," Shikamaru piped up, "Why do you hang out with us? The girls don't really like us at all." He was curious. Naruto never interacted with the girls in their class unless it was during a spar or they had kunoichi classes. Otherwise, Naruto was always seen daydreaming or joining Choji and him in skipping class. The blonde even had a large dislike towards Sasuke Uchiha, the most popular boy in their school. She was far from the normal standard of girls he knew.
Naruto laughed, "Why not?" She said cheerfully, "Those girls aren't serious about being proper shinobi. They care more about their hair and going on diets," Naruto poked her tongue out in disgust, "And boys, gosh it's gross. Well, I guess Hinata is not like them but she's a bit weird. I wanna be a strong kunoichi that no man looks down on me and be strong enough to take care of myself and those I care about!" She said passionately.
Choji chuckled, "That sounds really cool, Naruto."
"Really?" Naruto's eyes sparkled, "I was told I sounded like an idiot," She rubbed the back of her head sheepishly.
"So, you like hanging out with us?" Shikamaru questioned, moved by her words.
Naruto nodded, "Of course!"
Shikamaru pointed to the clouds, "That looks like a melon,"
"Just because it's a circle doesn't mean it's a melon," Choji deadpanned as Naruto laughed.
"Why aren't you in school, Naruto?"
Naruto screamed, rolling down the hill in fright.
Shikamaru and Choji got up quickly, seeing a chunin standing behind them and gulped. They were in so much trouble and by the looks of him, he was an Uchiha.
Naruto finished rolling down the hill and pointed heatedly, "Damn it, Itachi-sensei! I could've died."
Itachi folded his arms and arched a brow, "Why aren't you in school?" He asked once more, waiting as the blonde trudged back up to him. "Having a good education is also a part of being a good shinobi."
"But it's boring!" Naruto pouted, "I'm not learning the cool stuff like the boys. Why do I need to learn flower arrangements or how to put on makeup?! I'm only five damn it! I wanna do the obstacles courses and stealth training."
"Ehh that sounds so lame," Shikamaru didn't know the girls learnt that till now.
"Flower arrangement sounds fun," Choji said.
Itachi felt his mind prickle, "You're too young to be wearing makeup." Having spent a year now training Naruto from the ground up. She was still a little spitfire and Itachi adored the time he spent with her. His clan didn't know of the arrangement he had but his mother had suspected he was seeing a girl. He was, but not in the context that she was hoping for. "But education is important."
"Then you admit it's lame," Naruto asked hopefully.
"I did not say that," Itachi replied and faced the two boys, "You two shouldn't be skipping school either. Your parents would not be happy to know that you're playing truant."
The two boys gulped and quickly hiked it back to the school.
Naruto huffed, "Did you have to chase them away?"
"Skipping school won't get you anywhere," Itachi said and gestured for her to sit down with him. "What happened this time?" He said gently, seeing her shoulders dropped. He was informed by one of his summons that Naruto had skipped and immediately tracked her down once he was done with clan meetings.
"It was stupid Mizuki-sensei again. I won my spar against Sakura but he said I cheated and gave her the win. Everyone says I lost! I tried to tell him but he yelled at me and gave me detention." Naruto sniffed, pulling her knees to her chest, "I'm still a crybaby. I haven't gotten stronger at all."
Itachi reached over and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "One cruel person does not dictate your hard work, Naruto. I doubt that other students in your class can do the chakra control exercises that you can do or dodge as fast as you." He caught her gaze and squeezed her shoulder, "Don't let one person drag you down when you have many more cheering for you."
Naruto wiped her eyes and nodded, "Damn, you're right. You always know what to say, Itachi-sensei."
"That's because you're not an idiot that others like to believe you to be," He joked as Naruto rubbed the back of her head sheepishly, "Mind telling me why you've been hiding?"
Naruto chewed on her lip, "It's easier this way, I guess. People get angry at me when I do things right or just ignore me." She took a shuddering breath, "Why do they hate me, Itachi-sensei?"
Itachi felt his heart go out to the girl, "You know what, when you're a genin we'll have a sit-down and we'll talk about it."
"You promise?"
"I promise." Itachi nodded, "For now, tell me what you want to do? Do you want to continue down this path?" he saw her nod and took a deep breath, "Well, playing ignorant is a lot harder than giving it your all. It requires a lot of focus but don't hide away Naruto. Especially from your friends, okay. It will do you no good."
"I know you're talking but I don't really understand." Naruto said truthfully, "Is this one of those, I'll understand it when I'm older and wiser, things?"
"Perhaps." Itachi mused, "For now, let's go visit the Hokage and let him know. I'm sure when you explain to him that the Hokage will understand."
"But won't I be deceiving people?"
"Deceptions is also a skill a shinobi must hone," Itachi nodded, standing up and helping the blonde to her feet.
"Ahh I never thought about it that way. Also, Itachi-sensei," She peered up at him curiously, "Why is there a girl stalking you?"
"What?" Itachi muttered in shock.
"Yeah! She's been hiding in the bush a few metres away just staring at you. I can sense jealousy from her or at least I think it's jealousy. I've been giving the negative emotions a colour and she feels kinda green and purple." Naruto replied and discreetly pointed in the direction of where the girl was hiding.
"Thank you for telling me," Itachi replied and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Oh, now it's back to green."
Itachi sighed and disappeared with Naruto in a shunshin. He would have to speak firmly to his cousin to back off. He couldn't risk Naruto getting hurt due to a misunderstanding.
Dreamland:
"Why is it always this damn creepy forest?!" Naruto shouted in frustration. Coming well acquainted with the thick forest. "Screw this! Imma explore." She huffed and stalked off in a random direction. "Stupid bastard. Thinks he's so cool cause he's smart and from a prestigious clan," She mocked, leaping over a fallen log. "So what?! I'll never kiss his ass. Those girls are stupid! One of these days imma grind his face into the ground!" She shouted and growled when her fist phased through a tree, "Dammit! I can't even vent here! Wake upppp~!" She shouted at herself and slapped her face. "Owww~" she whined as her face started to sting. She pointed up at the moon angrily, "Just you watch, Kami-sama, I'll find a way outta this dream! And when I met you, imma grind your face too!"
Naruto was frustrated and furious. No matter what she did, the bastard Sasuke would always tease and bully her. When she told Itachi, he told her to either ignore him or speak to him head-on. There was no way she wanted to deal with the bastard's horde. "One of these days I'll show him," She shook her fists before taking in a deep breath and released it. Having taken lessons with the Iruka to control her temper. It always took a long time for her to calm down but Naruto liked not feeling exhausted after giving in to her anger.
With another sigh, Naruto wondered further than she ever been in the forest. Pushing through the tree line, she gasped as she came to the end of a cliff that overlooked the vast forest below. "Woah~" She whispered in awe, the moonlight played in the trees below as the fireflies gently danced in the valley. Naruto got on her knees and leaned over the cliff, taking a look down the face and awed as the forest playfully teased her eyes with its peaceful body. Her eyes crossed as a firefly approached her and fluttered around her. She giggled and pouted when she reached out to touch it, only for her hand to pass through it. Looking back to the valley, Naruto felt at peace. As if she had always been here.
"Naruto!"
"Ahhh!" Naruto screamed, turning around and clutched her heart, "What the hell, Tobi?! I could've fallen off the cliff!" She glared at the huffing boy and asked, "What the heck happened to you?"
Tobirama sighed in relief, "I heard you yelling and believed something horrible had happened to you. I see that you are fine."
"I was fine before you scared the crap outta me," Naruto grizzled before settling back down to look over the valley, "Since you're here, what is this place?" Pointing down at what caught her heart. "It's so pretty here,"
"It's the no man's land. Deadlands. A lot of clans fight and die there," Tobirama pinched his nose. "Why…" he took a deep breath, "Why were you yelling?"
"Argh," Naruto groaned, "It was that bastard again. Dumbass kept saying I was going to fail to be a shinobi and to just give up...and...and everyone laughed!"
Tobirama sat down next to the upset blonde. He caught the sadness in her eyes more than the anger. He still wasn't the best at comforting people and doing so with Naruto was way out of his league. The first time he did, he made her cry. From then on, he learnt to either listen to her or distract her. "You know, Naruto, it's been three years since I first met you."
"Three?" Naruto peered over to her friend. He seemed the same to her. "I've only known you for a year though,"
"I see," He commented, "It's October 10th. Happy 6th birthday, Naruto." He looked away when she smiles softly at him. This was a first. Used to her large and overbearing grins. "Are you safe?" He questioned, thinking about their first meeting and her half-dead state.
Naruto pulled her knees to her chest, overlooking the valley, "Ji-chama says he has watchers outside my apartment. If anything happens, I'm to run straight to his office."
Tobirama had trouble understanding Naruto's words at times. They seemed foreign, like the word 'apartment' but he supposed it meant the place she stayed at. He would never get used to her crude mouth, however.
"When is your birthday, Tobi?" She asked curiously.
"February 19th."
"Favourite food? Mine is miso ramen and red bean soup,"
"Fresh fish that I caught from the rivers," He held up his hand suddenly, stopping Naruto from asking further questions. "What's going on? You've never been curious about my life," He saw her face turn bright red at his remark.
"It's cause I don't know anything about you, dattebayo!" Naruto huffed in embarrassment, "It's been three years for you and I don't...I just wanna know more okay. The only thing I know is that when I'm watching you."
"Which are?" Tobirama arched a brow as she ranted.
"W-well, you prefer using suiton jutsu and you really love your brothers." She flushed harder under his gaze, "A-also, you fold your arms when you get annoyed and don't like it when I add -chama to your name. I don't know much, okay, but I feel like you know me a lot more than I know you."
"That's because of your motormouth," He replied, taking in her responses. They were honest and endearing. "Is that why you are curious? Because you know nothing about me."
"That's not why," Naruto threw her hands up in frustration, "It's cause I've been a bad friend and don't listen to you if you've got problems, dattebayo, and you always listen to mine. You're my first friend and I want to take care of you better." she said firmly, nodding at her own words, "I don't care what other people think, even if you are a dream, you're my first friend and I'm going to be better for you."
"As always, you're an idiot, but–" He held his hand up once again to silence her from talking, "–I am touched by your words. In this part of the world, one does not have the luxury to sit down and talk with friends. Seeing as I have known you for a long time, I do believe we are acquainted enough to be friends." He saw her smile at him happily, "Even though you're a ghost."
"I'm not a ghost, teme!" Naruto growled, shaking her fist at him and saw his lip twitch up in a small smile. "If you want," She said gently, "You can be a motormouth too and I promise to listen."
"I will keep that in mind." He saw her hold out a pinky to him and arched a brow, "We can't touch, baka," He said, though the insult was soft with no bite.
"So? A promise is a promise." Naruto said, "Let's be friends. Always."
"And if I say no?"
"I'll scream at you forever so you never get sleep," Naruto said playfully and laughed when he cringed. "I'm joking but I will get my revenge. Friends?"
Tobirama sighed, shaking his head as he replied, "After chasing after you even though you're a ghost–"
"I'm not a ghost!"
"–that enough proves that I see this union as a friendship." He linked his pinky with her as best as he could. Tobirama was never too sure when he'd met Naruto. Days, weeks, months or perhaps even years could pass before he could ever see her but he swore to continue to meet her whenever he could.
"I'm so excited," Naruto claimed, feeling his cool chakra tingle where their skin touched, "No matter how many years pass by, I swear I'll come and find you, dattebayo! That's a promise." She saw her hand becoming transparent and sighed, "Damn, I didn't wanna go just yet. Ne, Tobi, the next time I come you gotta show me how to fish, okay?"
Tobirama nodded, seeing her once again disappear from his view, "Of course," When she left him, Tobirama let out a deep sigh. "Perhaps I'm going mad making a promise like that," Shaking his head, he stood and headed back home. "Not a ghost. Not a projection. Just what is happening here," He muttered to himself. His mind returning back to the clothing that Naruto was wearing. They were odd and he didn't recognise them around the Land of Fire. "Perhaps from a foreign land?" He mused, "Then how is it possible to visit in such a form? Naruto doesn't seem to know what is happening either." Another sigh later, Tobirama dismissed his growing theories. Deciding to write down his thoughts later.
Diary entrance:
I haven't seen Naruto in a month. I wonder if she is okay. Due to her motormouth and lack of respect, I do believe that she would get into a fight. That idiot better be okay.
I'm no closer to figuring out what is happening between Naruto and I. I recently visited a shaman. A useless venture. They claim that I am not being haunted. I should've known better. I know that Naruto is alive, I just don't know where she is or how we are able to meet as we do. Father is getting suspicious of my late night walks but I've managed to deter him by showing my coming mastery with suiton. It wasn't wrong either. Each passing night I don't see her, I train and train till my body can no longer take the punishment.
Hashirama has been getting defiant. I believe in Anii-chan's words about stopping the fighting. Too many have died in vain. Especially children. Naruto has shown me how shinobi children should be; carefree yet cautious. A balance between shinobi training and childhood antics. Wherever she is from, it must be a peaceful village. Ah, peaceful but hateful towards her. I still don't see why she stays there. Perhaps I should offer her directions to where my clan resides and offer her a place? Perhaps. I'm getting off topic. I believe the adults need to sit down with one another and reach a truce, bringing an end to the needless fighting. Adults are truly idiotic.
I'm currently writing in my special hideout. It's rather peaceful here. Much better than the arguments at ho–
Heavens, she's here! The idiot hasn't spotted me yet but she's smiling. Ah, she's seen me and if were possible, her smile has gotten bigger. Damn, I think she's going to tackle me. Idiot. She should know better. I must go.
Hiruzen placed the diary down and hummed. "It's a rather cute friendship if I do say so myself,"
"Have you read all of Nidaime-sama's diaries, Sandiame-sama?" Itachi asked, sitting across from the man.
"I have," Hiruzen said with a calm face. Not giving anything away to the curious Uchiha. It was enlightening seeing a new side to his sensei. "However, I need to look closer at Tobirama-sensei's writings to finalise a plan. How is Naru-chan doing with her training?"
"She has far surpassed my expectations. I would even suggest that she graduate early but Naruto wishes to stay with the friends she has made."
"Ahh Shikamaru-kun and Choji-kun. Naru-chan has told me a lot about them," Hiruzen chuckled, "I suppose it's not a bad idea to keep her with those her age. How is her progress in school?"
"From what she says, it's boring." Itachi said with a smile, "She skips most of her classes with the two boys unless there is a practical session. If it weren't for her delinquent behaviour, I believe she would be top rookie of her class. However, Naruto insists to keep herself hidden and I must say that her pranks are becoming more sophisticated. I'm going to suggest that she start studying fuinjutsu, Hokage-sama."
Hiruzen chuckled when he felt the nerves roll of Itachi despite his calm facade, "Please, Itachi, speak your mind,"
"I'm worried about Naruto and her condition. She will find out soon rather than later. Naruto is awfully observant, piecing information together, thinking on it, and delivering her response. I've seen it happen when she decided to get revenge on the teachers or the shopkeepers that deny her service. I'm worried about how she may react when she learns about it on her own."
Hiruzen softened at the worry the boy gave to his student. He knew that Naruto was much more than a student for Itachi. She was an anchor for him. Keeping him levelled between his double agent duties, ANBU duties, and sensei duties. Her bright personality and honest open replies helped to keep Itachi grounded and Hiruzen suspected that they would be best friends in time. Not Sasuke, like Mikoto and Kushina had hoped. Hiruzen always thought that Naruto was more like Kushina but after giving her the attention she needed, it was far from the truth. She was showing to be more like Minato every day. "I will consider your words, Itachi-kun. Should something drastic happen then I will tell Naruto about the Kyuubi – with your help."
"Of course, Hokage-sama!" Itachi straightened his back. He wanted to be there when Naruto was told the truth.
Hiruzen dismissed Itachi and returned to the book in hand.
Diary Entrance: 1 year time skip
Naruto tells me that she is now 7 years of age. She has gotten taller but I don't tell her. I would never hear the end of it. She seems distracted and she tells me that she is worried for her sensei. She details that she feels his stress and in turn, she is stressed. I encourage her to ask her sensei stubbornly but her sad smile makes me stop. I immediately know that she has already tired. I ask her what her plan was should something terrible fall upon her sensei. I expected her anger at my crude question but she ends up crying. She doesn't know what to do and feels guilt for not being able to support her sensei.
I don't know how to comfort her when she had openly comforted me with the loss of Itama. I'm a terrible friend. Where she stayed by my side as I vent my anger and watched over my sleeping body, singing away my anguish - I can only watch her hopelessly as she cries her heart out for her sensei. At times like this I loath not being able to touch her and give her comfort. All I can do is sit beside her as she cries. I feel helpless. Unable to help my one friend.
Diary Entrance:
Naruto is inconsolable. I could barely make out her words but I've pieced together what has happened. She's in denial that her sensei has murdered his family and has become a rouge. She passed out in her Grandfather's office at the news and appeared before me in my room. It was a shock to have her within clan wall, at first. I make sure to keep her company and remind her that I am here with her. I don't know how to make her happy. I just know to be there for her. Curse her Grandfather for telling her so coldly. Curse the fates for not allowing me to touch her in that moment to give her comfort. Should I ever met this Itachi person I will cut him down.
It almost makes me laugh. I can tuck her under my blanket yet I can't touch her. I laid beside her that night. Close enough for her to hear my breathing so she could relax. Naruto fell asleep with tears staining her cheeks. I wish I could take away her sensory abilities, tis more a curse than a blessing. At least for one day, I wish to help Naruto more than I can as I am.
I, Tobirama Senju, swear to never make Naruto cry. I, Tobirama Senju, swear to always make Naruto smile. I swear.
Diary Entrance:
I am now fourteen years of age. The times I have met Naruto is very few but each time we meet, she has grown. She says that she is now ten years old. Her bright personality has returned. It had taken time and she is still healing, but she is doing well and that is all I can hope for. I ask her about her training and she is more than happy to ramble to me. She has a new sensei, a man named Kakashi. From how she talks about him, they are close. I feel uncertain whenever she mentions him but the training she receives is subpar. I could train her better.
I've managed to deter her from exploring the Senju compound once more. It was too dangerous to have her exploring further than my room. I do trust the silly ghost but I still had to protect my clan. Even from my friend. We talk about education and I tell her about my ventures out of the Fire Country. They were uneventful due to the missions but she is eager. It was then I learn that she has never passed her village's walls. There is still so much that I don't know about her.
My idiot brother, Hashirama, barged into my room when I was doing pushups. It was dumb luck that I was listening to Naruto and not talking. I can see the curious look in Naruto's eyes when she looks to my brother and I frown. However, Hashirama has informed me that I must wash up and prepare to escort a noble girl around the compound. The baka doesn't give me time to respond.
"I'll be right back," Tobirama sighed as he got up. He looked pointedly to the confused blonde, "Don't leave this room. No matter how tempted you are. No exploring."
Naruto pouted, "Boo, it's always the same thing. Stay in the room ~ Stop going through my things ~"
Tobirama felt his brow twitch, "Naruto, it is considered rude to have a young female rifling through an older man's belongings."
"But I'm bored being cooped up in your room!" Naruto threw her hands up as she watched him collect items for his bath. "I either wake up here or in the forest, and you won't take me out to the forest when I appear here. At least give me something to do."
"You're a ghost. You can't touch my things." He rolled his eyes, grabbing a short-sleeved blue kimono shirt and pants. He heard her scoff behind him, "I'll be quick. It is just a matter of formality."
"Since when is showing someone around a formality?" Naruto asked, folding her arms as Tobirama picked out a yellow sash. "You must be from a rich family then."
Tobirama heard the edge in her tone and faced her, "We are a big and skilled family." When she turned to look out the window, he sighed, "Naruto–"
"It's fine. Kakashi-sensei says I need to spend as much time as I can meditating." Naruto heard Tobi sigh again before the door slid shut. Sighing now that she was alone. Something didn't sit right with her and she couldn't figure it out.
"You humans are idiots,"
"Urgh, why are you speaking now, Fuzzball?" Naruto groaned as she felt the Kyuubi stir in her mind. It was the biggest secret she kept from Tobi but she swore to the Hokage that she wouldn't let anyone know. It was all too much for her to handle. First the revelation of being the jinchuriki to the Kyuubi and within the same night, a matter of 4 hours later, Itachi killed his clan.
"Let me out," Kyuubi huffed, looking through his host's eyes with boredom.
"No way! The last time I let you out in the dream world you ran off." Naruto hissed back to the Kyuubi. They were on steady terms. Not the best but it was better than being enemies and having the giant beast overload her coils with his foul chakra.
"Of course I did. Being confined is insufferable." The Kyuubi looked down at his host. He knew what was going on but refrained from telling his host. The Kyuubi had no idea how the old monkey managed to keep Naruto from discovering the truth about her friend when she was obsessed with being Hokage. It was almost laughable. From their first official meeting, he had been watching through her senses. His host was far more tolerable than his first two. At least she talked to him. Keeping his mind sane from his own impure thoughts. Lifting his head, Kyuubi felt his hair stiffen and growled.
Naruto looked up at the Kyuubi and arched a brow, "What is it?"
"Mito!" He hissed, growling louder as he felt the chakra of his first host nearby.
Naruto sighed, "Look, you've been getting grumpier each time I come here. So, I have a proposition for you." She gained her biju's attention and grinned at him cheekily, "I'll let you out but~" She sang, "I get to walk you."
"No one walks the mighty Kyuubi!" He yelled at her, making her hair fly around her but she continued to smile up at him.
"Aww come on. It'll also give me a chance to use these bad boys," She dropped a hand and a golden chain fell from her shoulder blade.
Kyuubi hissed at her, "I am not your pet,"
"In a way you are. You're also a tenant in my body and so far, you've been living in me rent free." Naruto lashed her hand out and the golden chain snaked around his large neck.
"Damn you, Naruto! You're the worst!"
"Says the big furball that can't take a compliment." Naruto tsked, opening her eyes and found herself back in Tobirama's room with one clear difference. The Kyuubi was sitting beside her, standing at her height, with a collar around his neck in place of the seal and her chakra chain connecting to it and her hand. "Deny it all you want but you love walks." She giggled when he looked away from her.
"That water boy will be furious that you're going to leave the room,"
Naruto stuck out her tongue, "Not like he can stop me. Besides, we're just going to the forest pass the walls," She pointed out the window to a moderate sized wall. "Homerun from there on, pal."
"I am not your pal,"
Naruto rolled her eyes, "Sure thing, partner in crime." Winking at him when he growled. Phasing through the window, Naruto made her way towards the wall with a slight skip in her step. The wall was made out of thick wood and Naruto frowned as she reached out to touch it. She felt the hum of smooth chakra beneath her fingers, "Waa~ Kyuubi, there's chakra in the wall. Like, it's alive,"
Kyuubi snorted, sitting down and ruffled his ears, "Of course it has chakra. The one who made this wall is this clan's ace."
Naruto looked to the Kyuubi suspiciously. Before she could ask the Kyuubi about what he was talking about, she heard a people giggling.
Kyuubi followed the sounds too and sneered when he spotted a trio of young teenage girls dressed in elaborate kimonos. "Ugly. The absolute lot of them. No amount of jewels will cover their hideous personality,"
Naruto swallowed hard, she could feel the trio's negative emotions. It was dark green.
Kyuubi looked up at his host and saw the confusion in her eyes. Tugging on the chain, he caught her attention and motioned to head over to the giggling girls. "You won't figure out the new emotion if you don't know what it is?" He looked away when he saw the vulnerability in her eyes as she trusted him. He absolutely detested it. Digging his paw into the ground, Kyuubi led Naruto over to the girls as they gossiped wildly in the small garden.
"Do you know what it is?"
"Of course I do. Your sensory ability comes from me, idiot," Kyuubi scoffed, nudging his host from behind. "Just listen and tell me what you think it is,"
"Aah okay," Naruto nodded nervously as she approached the group. Swallowing thickly, Naruto listened as Kyuubi sat at her heels. She could feel his tails wrap around her gently, helping to ease her anxiousness.
A raven-haired beauty snickered behind her delicate hand. Her purple kimono adorned with pearls and intricate designs. Sitting between her two friends as she lightly gushes, "I tell no lies. Father is arranging a betrothal for me to the main house of Senju. Unfortunately, it is not the eldest of the brothers but the second son will just have to do. Cool and strong," She smiled when her companions giggled, "Father has worked hard to get into the Senju's graces for me to marry the man of my dreams." She sighed lightly, her auburn coloured eyes sparkling in delight, "In a matter of weeks I will wear a dress made of the finest satin and silk."
"Only the best pearls will be woven into your hair," A girl in a peach kimono gushed.
"Just imagine the jewels and clothes your husband will pay to your family. The Senju are rumoured to have enough wealth to buy several mountains." The one in green commented with a dreamy sigh.
"Indeed," The girl in purple said, "And soon it shall all be mine. A matriarch in the Senju house." She giggled into her hand, "It's just a bonus that Tobirama-kun is handsome,"
Her friends giggled, "Oh you're so sly, Madame,"
She giggled once more, "I should be thankful that the little cretin died by Uchiha hands. Can you imagine me the wife of Itama? The little disgrace and so unsightly," She laughed louder when her friends joined in. "I would have to kill him myself. A woman such as myself would be ruined being married to that."
"Oh madame, your words are true,"
Naruto took a step back, feeling her knees almost give under the revelation. If it hadn't been for Kyuubi, Naruto knew she would've fallen on her backside. "W-what…?"
"Greed," Kyuubi pointed out as the greed the trio excluded was becoming more and more potent. "Dark ambition. Humans are the worst kind," he tugged on the chain, "Come, we must go."
Naruto nodded, taking another step back. "Kyuubi...they mentioned the Uchiha…"
"Let's go, kit," He tugged on the chain again. She turned to look at him and his eyes widened at the unshed tears in her eyes.
"O-okay," Naruto buried her hand into the Kyuubi's fur and leaned into him. Resting her head on his snout, "An Uchiha killed Itama. Where am I, Kyuubi?"
Kyuubi felt out of place but since he was inside her, he could feel her emotions too. "Let's find a quiet place and I will explain what I can. When you wake up you need to get the old monkey to tell you everything." He licked her cheek when he heard her sniffle. "Don't get soft on me now, kit." Kyuubi led her towards the wall, looking behind him just as the Senju brothers came into view. They would not seem him leaving with Naruto. Kyuubi led Naruto through the Senju territory, past the forest area she would meet with her friend, and far beyond till it was nightfall. Naruto had kept quiet and didn't complain about the walk. He peered up at the great temple that was hidden in the thick forest. Taking in a deep breath, Kyuubi was welcomed with the scent of home and pushed opened the large doors with his tails.
"Who dares to enter my temple?!" A hard voice boomed off the walls of the temple.
Naruto snapped out of her daze and shivered, "What is this place?"
Kyuubi stepped forward and barked, "It's me you idiot. Can't you recognise yourself!"
Naruto's eyes widened as a large red eye appeared in the abyss. Her mouth hung as a giant fox appeared out of the shadow with nine fiery tails that threatened to destroy the temple they were in. "Oh shi~"
Kyuubi stuffed his tail around her mouth, "Looking good," he commented with a feral grin. "And you can see us, bonus."
The large Kyuubi sneered and glared at the blonde child. The awe in her eyes disturbed him but the sight of himself in a small astral form intrigued him more, "What is going on?"
"The Gods are at work. Nothing we can do to stop it," The small Kyuubi replied and led Naruto further into the temple. There was a skylight in the middle and illuminated the mini forest in the temple. He pushed her towards a log to sit and sat beside her. "This here is my host, Naruto Uzumaki. In 80 years or so, she will be your host." the small Kyuubi was unaffected when the large Kyuubi growled. His host wasn't bothered either and was proud. "She is the one that the old man was talking about. Although, you haven't met her before I have in the past just as what is happening right now. Being angry and denial won't change that we will be sealed within her."
"Then I will kill all Uzumaki!"
"Maah I see why I was frustrated before." The small Kyuubi muttered, "Not that you can touch either of us anyway. You can only see and hear us." He commented just as the large Kyuubi made a swipe at them.
Naruto frowned, "Ne ne, Kyuubi, what are we doing here? Is he going to give us some answers?"
The small Kyuubi flicked Naruto's nose, "No, I will. It appears that now is the time for you to know and when you return to the real world, you need to get the rest from the old monkey. We have simply come here so that water boy won't interfere and for my old self to meet you."
"Ahh okay then," Naruto wrapped her arms around Kyuubi and rubbed her cheek all over his thick fur. Taking a deep breath she felt calm with her companion.
Kyuubi blushed but ignored it in the meantime to explain to the larger Kyuubi, "Whether it be the gods or fates, they have interfered in Naruto's life and she will need support. We know what happens to those that dream of the past. The bond they make makes it unbearable once the past dies."
"Why should I care to help?"
"I'm proof, idiot, and you grow to be fond of this child. Insanity will not touch her and by the old man, I will beat it into you if I could." Kyuubi growled at the large beast, "I want for Naruto to be able to come to our home. Being exposed to the past will harm her. Especially if she sees something that will harm her heart." Kyuubi knew his old half was listening and that was good enough for him. In time, Naruto would win him over and he would wait patiently to be sealed within her. Even with all the anger and pain to come, he would remember Naruto and accept her as his host.
"The past? Don't be silly, that's not possible," Naruto snorted and rolled her eyes.
Kyuubi looked down at his host sadly, "I wish it was, Kit. I have seen it myself happen to three people. They wished to spend the rest of their lives with those in the past and want to sleep all the time. They would poison themselves to sleep until they no longer wake. Some go insane when the ones they know in the past have died and kill themselves to be with them." He saw her frown and explained, "However, I do not believe this will happen to you. You have a stronger heart and mind than those before. You also have a better support system and live an active life."
"Okay…" Naruto replied, trying her best to keep up with what the Kyuubi was saying. "So, I'm dreaming about the past?"
"Yes. Whenever your body is asleep, your spirit is sent to the past. It is unknown how long it lasts for. You're currently in the warring clan era, the time before the Five Great Nations. Before Konohagakure was founded. You mustn't interfere with the past unless you don't want to be born or a terrible future replaces what you know." Naruto gulped and nodded her head, "I'm sure that old monkey will explain better than I can. You mustn't let that boy know you're from the future either."
"What does Ji-chama know?"
Kyuubi smirked, "A lot more than I do. The old fart is too scared to tell you incase it hurts you. You've been through enough at your young age. He doesn't want to further scar you,"
"Ahh okay," Naruto nodded, somewhat agreeing with the Kyuubi. Though it sat wrong with her that her grandfather figure was hiding things from her. Things that involved her. "Ano, I have a question and it might be dumb," She gained both of the Kyuubi's attention, "But that girl called Tobi, Tobirama Senju…"
"You idiot," Kyuubi snorted, "That's the water boy's name and clan. I honestly wonder how dense you can be at times."
"B-but Tobi…"
"His name was already known far at a young age. Of course, he isn't going to tell you his full name. Only an idiot would give out their full name," He saw Naruto get embarrassed, "This era is a dangerous time. Enemies would do anything to kill the children of the main family. When you wake up, go straight to the old monkey and get him to explain what is going on. When you need a time out then come to this temple."
"I'm still confused," She admitted shyly. Embarrassed that she still wasn't able to piece things together as quickly.
"You won't be once you know everything. Despite your age, you're quite mature and somewhat reasonable. Your snoring is up for debate."
"I do not snore!" When the Kyuubi smirked, she bristled, "Oh so the almighty Kyuubi can talk shit. You're just like every other furry animal and love belly rubs."
Kyuubi flicked Naruto's middle. Sending her flying and yelped when he went flying with her. The damn brat was still holding onto the chain.
The large Kyuubi watched on with a slight sneer. They were both idiots as they both jumped up to yell at one another. "Will you two shut up!" He silenced to two bickering fools and leaned down, nudging his nose closer to the blonde and took in her scent. She smelt like the forest and the wind on a rainy day. It was pleasant to his senses and memorised her warm and humming chakra. "Kozou, you dare to act familiar with me yet you do not speak my name."
"Name? I thought your name is Kyuubi,"
"Fool! That is a mere title." The large Kyuubi huffed, "That rat says that he trusts you. I don't particularly like humans but if what he says is true then I will concede. I will bless you with my name and don't you dare forget it, Kozou," The great fox stood tall and spread his tails all around the temple, his chakra leaking all around him yet the girl showed no fear at his tainted chakra. She was in awe of him. "I am the Kyuubi no Yoko, leader and strongest of the Biju. You may call me Kurama!"
Naruto grinned, her cheeks making her eyes close, "Kurama," Saying his name softly, "I like your name," The blonde felt the telltale signs on her waking up and pointed her thumb at herself, "My name's Naruto Uzumaki and I'll be Hokage one day, dattebayo!"
Kurama watched as the young girl and his future self disappeared. "Hokage?"
Naruto sprung out of bed and quickly rushed to the Hokage's office. There was no time to lose and she knew if she went later then she wouldn't be able to reach the Hokage. He would be too busy. "Jiji!" Naruto burst through his window, somersaulting and landed before the old man. "I have something to say and you better not lie to me!" She placed her hands on her hips and looked at him stubbornly.
Hiruzen gulped at the gaze. It was just like Minato. Determined and unwavering. "What can I help you with, Naru-chan?"
"Who is Tobirama Senju and why am I dreaming about him?" She smirked when his pipe fell out of his open mouth. "Speak up, old man, I want answers. What's going on with me?"
"How did you find his name?" Hiruzen pulled himself together to ask Naruto a few questions first. As far as he knew, Naruto never revealed that she knew who Tobi was in all the years they knew each other. Not once. Did he miss something?
Naruto shrugged his shoulders, "I overheard a group of nobles talking about wanting to live off his money in my dream."
Hiruzen groaned, he remembered that passage.
I swear up and down that I saw Naruto when I went to meet the noble daughter. I had dashed back to my room to find it empty. I couldn't even focus on pleasantries with the girl. Did she wake up? Or were my eyes true and she left the compound? She swore not to leave my room. Well...I enforced it but she always agreed. I will have to ask her the next time I see her. I have to ask her why she looked so pale if that were her. Dinner is soon and I know father wants to speak to me afterwards. The noble and his daughter will be joining us for dinner. This has been a long day.
"I apologise, Naru-chan, no matter what I come with I can't figure out why you are seeing my sensei," Hiruzen said truthfully, taking a deep breath and slouched in his chair. Holding the truth about her dream friend had been more burdensome than he had realised. Especially not knowing how it happened or how he could help her. Perhaps with knowing the truth, he could prepare her for future visits and what was to come. The First Shinobi War. The final entry of his sensei two weeks before he died. "If you are patient enough to listen then I will let you know what I know. It will be a long talk."
Naruto sunk under the withering look in his eyes and walked to him and gripped his hand, "It's okay, Ji-chama, you can tell me and I promise I will listen. I won't be the motormouth this time. You can be."
Hiruzen chuckled softly, "You said almost the same thing to Tobirama-sensei and yes, he was my sensei in time."
"How do you know what I've told him?" She asked curiously, knowing that she wasn't the one for detailed explanations whenever she told him about her dreams.
Hiruzen reached into his desk and pulled out the first volume, "This is the first diary Tobirama-sensei used to write down his encounters with you. All his thoughts are in here." He pulled the diary out of her grasp, "Unfortunately, I can't give you this to read. I know you're curious but only the Hokage are permitted to read the Hokage's diaries. Perhaps, once you take my hat you can read them too." He pinched her cheek when she pouted and gestured to over to the couch, "I'll get my secretary to get us some tea and breakfast. Then we can talk. I'm sure you must be confused and filled with questions and I will do my best to answer them."
The two chatted lightly as they waited for breakfast to arrive. A few times Hiruzen had to scold the girl for skipping classes and starting fights with Sasuke. He made sure that they ate first, belly filled with food and each with a cup of hot tea before he started.
"I best start from the beginning. When you were attacked on your 5th birthday and told me about your dreams, I suspected something big was happening. I knew this since I was Tobirama-sensei's main student and we would often talk. I believe I was seventeen when I asked sensei why he wasn't married or had any children. I was the only one who knew why and that's because he met you," He said gently to the confused girl, "Sensei had a hidden talent and that was drawing. He showed me a drawing of you, so that's how I know about what is going on between the two of you but I didn't truly know until you told me about your dream. I didn't know that his friendship with you stemmed from a young age. From your fifth birthday onwards, I've been reading sensei's diaries to see if he knew what was going on. Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to figure it out in his time but each time you two met, he would write it down. You two have a unique and close friendship," He chuckled when she blushed with a nod, "I can't give you any details, it could upset your friendship with Tobirama-sensei but you mustn't let him know that you know who he is or that you're from the present. I would kindly ask you that you keep your knowledge about Konoha to an absolute minimum. It could be dangerous and you wouldn't want to harm your friend."
Naruto shook her head, "Of course not,"
"I can only imagine that when you go to sleep that your spirit is being sent back in time. I don't know what the gods were thinking but I have to ask, are you okay? With all of this?"
Naruto shrugged, "I'm not too sure, to be honest. I always thought it was a dream but I know to be careful, Jiji. I even found a secret place to go to if I find being back there is too much."
Hiruzen let out a small breath, "That is good news at least. I don't want you clinging to the past, Naruto. I would like for you to be here in the present, with me and those that find you precious," He said sincerely. Having always worried that Naruto would rather spend time in the past with her friend than suffer through the treatment of the village. He knew she wouldn't, but it always nagged at him.
Naruto felt the sadness creep into his chakra and promised him. "I swear I won't, Jiji. Besides, I can't eat ramen there or prank anyone."
Hiruzen chuckled at her innocent answer. "Although I won't discourage your friendship with him, I want you to be careful. I will understand if this is still confusing."
"Yeah, it is a little bit," Naruto rubbed the back of her head sheepishly, "Ano," Naruto looked away shyly, "What was he like, Jiji? C-could you tell me stories about him? He is the Hokage after all and I still wanna be Hokage so I must know everything there is about them."
Hiruzen smirked at her weak cover up, "Then you won't mind me starting with the Shodai Hokage," He saw her try to cover up the sour look on her face and chuckled, "Hmm, it's been a long time since I've been able to talk about sensei lightheartedly. Tobirama-sensei was a stern but fair man," He saw her eyes sparkle and settled into the couch. Deciding on cancelling all his meetings and pushing aside his paperwork. It had been a long time since he could reminisce about his past. His old teammates were bitter and preferred talking about stale topics. He felt enlightened being able to open up, despite it being to a young girl. Yet the young girl would come to know his sensei more than he ever would.