Chapter 3: Six Years Later
.:Save Me:.
Sorry for the late update! I've had extreme writer's block on a particular scene in this chapter (that's still very bad but finished for now)! Either way, I hope you all enjoy it! Again, sorry for the late update!
Toshira sighed deeply as she placed the last large bowl she used to cook for tonight on the drying rack. Glancing up, she scanned the living room in front of her. Two six year olds- one with bright golden hair and the other with shining pink hair- were playing a game. From what Toshira can gather, her son, Naruto, is pretending to be a ninja that's protecting the beautiful princess, Sakura, from invisible monsters. At that, Toshira couldn't help but smile as she cut off the water running in the sink.
It's been six years since her children were born and it feels like an even longer time since she's lost Kurama. However, the thought that he's sealed inside of Naruto gives her some peace of mind, but it's not the ideal situation she wants for her children. Taking in another deep breath, Toshira turned around to the stove behind her and checked on the food.
Thankfully, the house she and Kurama shared wasn't damaged while they were away. In fact, Mikoto made sure that it was well maintained. She even went as far as paying for upgrades and any new furniture needed when Toshira and her children moved in. Now, the house has every modification that Kurama didn't have the time to do. For example, the bedrooms that Kurama built now have a fresh coat of paint on them that Naruto and Sakura were able to pick out for their separate rooms a few years ago. All of the appliances have been updated making day to day life much easier. However, the only thing Toshira has not allowed for anyone to change, are the furniture pieces that Kurama built. Having at least something he designed especially for their home makes it feel even more warm.
On the other side, Toshira and her little family has been able to get along very well in their new life. Naruto is very much a combination of his parents. He inherited his mother's unwavering confidence and bold personality while also gaining his father's bright attitude that reminded Toshira of the sun. Her daughter, however, is nearly completely like her father in personality. She doesn't really speak unless spoken to and she usually keeps to herself unless Naruto wants to play with her. Toshira must admit, her daughter's personality can be very unsettling given the fact she rarely- if ever- smiles or express emotion besides confusion or curiosity, but once you get to know her, you can easily tell she has an old spirit. Regardless of their differences, Naruto and Sakura are nearly inseparable- and that's something Toshira will fight like hell to maintain.
"I'll protect you Sakura-chan!" Naruto shouted, swinging his wooden sword in a slashing motion in front of him. Sakura sat behind him- a children's book about forest animals in hand. Toshira couldn't help but smile at the two from her vantage point in the kitchen.
Toshira couldn't help but admire the way Naruto- even at the age of six- is such a protective boy. Even though she hopes neither of them will need that kind of protection, she understands that she may not have a choice in the matter. Besides, they are old enough to go into the ninja academy now. How can she stop them if it's what they want to do?
"Mommy." The soft sound of Sakura's voice brought Toshira's focus to the little girl. "Mikoto-San is here with her sons." Toshira's brow raised but, before she could question her, a light knock sounded from the door. Toshira blinked at the door before glancing back at her daughter who watched her reaction carefully with a blank expression. How does she always know when people are here? Toshira shook the thought away as she quickly put a smile on her face.
"Thank you, Saku-chan." The mentioned child nodded before turning back to her brother who was now curiously looking at the door. Toshira quickly moved to the door.
As Sakura said, Mikoto and her two boys stood on the other side. Just like her two children, Toshira couldn't help but admire what the two young men were becoming. Sasuke stood at the same height as Sakura and Naruto given that they all were the same age while Itachi only stood a few inches shorter than herself. In no time he would tower over her since, after all, he is only eleven.
"Mikoto-chan, Sasu-kun, Itachi-kun, it's so good to see you all." Toshira smiled brightly at the trio. At the mentioning of their names, Naruto raced over while holding his precious sister's hand, a wide grin on his face.
"When did you guys decide to come over?!" He bellowed causing Mikoto to giggle and Toshira to give him a mildly scolding look.
"That's not a proper way to greet guest, isn't it, Naruto-kun?" Said boy flinched back before rubbing the back of his neck.
"I'm sorry, kaa-san." Mikoto let out a chuckle patting him on the head.
"I'm glad to see you too, Naru-kun." Mikoto glanced over to Sakura next. Placing a gentle hand on her cheek, she gave the girl a small smile. "And you, Saku-chan."
"It's good to see you too, Mikoto-san." Mikoto nodded, turning her gaze up to Toshira. "Well, how about we let the kids play out back while we finish dinner?" Toshira smiled.
"That sounds like a plan."
Itachi took the three children out the back door while Mikoto and Toshira stayed in the kitchen. The talked about mundane things while they chopped vegetables and minced meat for dinner. When the two placed all the ingredients in a pot to cook, they sat at the dinner table together, two steaming cups of tea sitting before each of them.
"So," Toshira started, lifting her teacup, "how is Itachi-kun doing? I heard he's been promoted again." At that, Mikoto stiffened, her grip on her own teacup tightening.
"He's… he's…" She let out a deep breath, her head dropping. "He's eleven, Toshira. He shouldn't never have been a jonin much less an ANBU." Toshira paused, setting down her cup gently.
"I have noticed," She began, taking a breath, "that he doesn't act the same anymore." Toshira hesitated, but she reached out, placing a hand on Mikoto's. "But I do see a fire in him now. He's so determined to keep his precious people safe. I'm positive that alone will keep him grounded." Mikoto met Toshira's gaze for a few seconds before looking away.
"He is more protective of Sasuke-kun lately." Mikoto blinked hard, wiping at invisible tears before they can fall. "But he's fighting with Fugaku at every turn now. I know he's only doing it to make sure Sasuke has a different life, but I'm still worried. Who knows how far it will go." Sighing, Mikoto shook her head, lifting her tea cup. "On another note, how are Saku-chan and Naru-kun?" At that, Toshira let out a light hum.
"Well, everything is going… peacefully." A small smile formed on her face. "You know, it's almost like Kurama is still here. He's just inside of Naruto-kun so we can't see him but I can feel his presence. As if he's letting me know he's protecting them both still, you know?" Mikoto didn't respond. She just silently watched as Toshira smiled even though her eyes started to shine with tears. "But you'd never know that given how Naruto-kun acts. They can't be more different when it comes to their personalities. Naruto is just… so lively and energetic all the time."
"Just like Minato and Kushina." Mikoto added, taking a sip of her tea. "But they were both very protective of their precious people too." Placing her teacup down, Mikoto cleared her throat. Toshira watched her closely, confusion clear in her eyes. "How is Sakura?" With that, Toshira reeled back, turning her gaze towards the window overlooking the wide forest surrounding the house.
"I wish I can protect her from meaning things… but I'm… learning I can't protect her from any of it." At that, Toshira couldn't stop the tears from falling anymore. All Mikoto could do was hold her hand while Toshira silently cried.
Itachi's POV
"I got you!"
"Get off of me, dobe!"
"Not until you say I win, teme!"
"Get off!" I couldn't help but smirk. Naruto had Sasuke face down in the dirt with Sasuke's hands twisted behind his back and held down with Naruto's full body weight. A victorious grin was plastered on Naruto's face while Sasuke looked pissed. Either way, it was hilarious to see. Maybe I should teach Sasuke some fighting techniques?
A soft breeze blew by bringing a chill up my spine. Without warning, a flash of a memory came to the forefront of my mind of when I felt a similar feeling within these woods. It was dark, but the brightest things I can remember seeing are two piercing red eyes that reminded me of horror stories and a warm smile from a woman that could only be Toshira-san. Even when I can't fully recall what happened, the feeling of gratitude I have for the two can't be forgotten. It's funny how memories work.
"Are you tired, Itachi-san?" The soft voice of the young girl sitting next to me on the back porch cut off my thoughts. I let out a soft hum, turning my gaze to her. She didn't return it. She just continued to stare off into the woods across from us.
For someone who is an ANBU captain, I can't help but be a little embarrassed that a six year old makes me feel uneasy. Out of all the psychotic and murderous monsters I met, why does a child give me a strong sense of foreboding?
It's not her appearance that gives me pause. In fact, it should give the opposite feeling. With shoulder length bright pink hair and wide green eyes, she should be the poster child for innocence. However, her demeanor is a different story. I don't think I've ever seen her smile or at least look excited for anything in the six years of known her. She's always held a stoic or nonchalant attitude whenever she's spoken to.
Then again, I do remember those red eyes gave me the same feeling even though they saved my life. I let out a deep sigh as the thought rolled around in my head. Now that I think about it, it makes since she would inherit something like that from him. Afterall, she is the daughter of a demon.
"What would make you think I am?"
"You're slouching." she finally turned to me, her expression blank.
"I can assure you, I have never done such a thing." without moving too much, I straightened my back. "I've done too much conditioning training to prevent such exhaustion." She blinked at me for a few seconds, her bright green eyes not revealing a single thought running through her mind.
"Workaholics die early because they don't take the time to enjoy life so it passes by quicker." With that, she turned her attention forward once more. Meanwhile, I can't bring myself to look away. What kind of child thinks like that?
"That's a strange thing for a six year old to say."
"It's strange for an eleven year old boy to work like a forty year old man." I blinked, her words slowly processing in my brain.
Of course I've heard the rumors and whispers about me when I'm in public. I've heard people state their discomfort, disgust, or even envy that I'm in the position I'm in at my age, but that's a different situation. I was forced into doing the things that I have done. What's forcing her? Could it be that she's more demon than-
"I can help you." It took longer than I care to admit to acknowledge what she said. Help me?
"What are you referring to?" How can she help me with anything?
"My father… gave me gifts." Her eyes never left the scuffle between the two boys, but it's clear she isn't really paying attention to them. "I can use them to help you." At that moment, she turned towards me, her head tilted slightly in my direction. "But only if you want." Gifts?
"That depends on what you mean by gifts." I raised a brow watching her closely. If she's talking about abilities that the nine tailed fox passed on to her, then what is she capable of? If she's already showing signs of abilities at her age, does that mean there could be even stronger abilities she's capable of in the future? And is it possible that she can become a danger?
"Doesn't the saying go that curiosity killed the cat?" I narrowed my eyes but she ignored it by turning away from me once more.
"Is that a-"
"Get off me, dope!" Sasuke screamed quickly catching my attention.
Naruto now had an arm around his neck while keeping Sasuke's other arm hazardously bent behind his back. A wide grin was plastered on Naruto's face while Sasuke looked ready to murder. Despite his predicament, Sasuke still struggled to get free.
"I win, teme!" with a deep growl, Sasuke used all his strength to twist them.
Naruto landed flat on his back with Sasuke's added weight landing on top of him. He let out a pained groan as Sasuke quickly rolled away from him. Both boys glared at each other before Sasuke lunged at Naruto and their scuffle continued.
"Do you want my help?" from the corner of my eye, I glanced at Sakura. Her attention was solely on the wrestling match in front of us, but there something different in her apathetic demeanor that I couldn't put my finger on. Is she expecting me to say yes?
Being an ANBU captain, I should report these supposed "gifts" to the hokage but I will need more information on what exactly they are. At the same time, that would require possibly putting her life at risk in the process. No matter how eerie or disturbing she may seem, I can't ignore the promise I made. To protect them from the life I was force to live. If I told the hokage, there's a high possibility that she may very well have to give up her current life in order for the village to better use her for its protection. Granted, that is what I was made to do, that doesn't mean it has to happen to an innocent- child of a demon or not. It's better if I don't know exactly what she can do. That way, even if I'm asked, I can honestly answer without accidentally giving away too much information or risking further investigation. Besides, what kind of repayment would that be to the man that saved my life?
"I don't require any assistance." Once the words left my mouth, she did something I've never seen her do: she slumped. It's almost like her body deflated as if she were defeated.
"I knew it." I almost missed the barely audible whisper.
"I don't under-"
"It's good that your honest with what you want." She started, turning her head away from my view entirely. "But you should be more honest in your reasonings. You leave too much up for interpretation that way."
"Saku-"
"Naruto, Sasuke." She stood, completely ignoring me, as she returned her gaze to the two boys. I couldn't take my attention from her. For the first time since I've known her, I saw an emotion cross her eyes that I can identify: hurt. What did I do to hurt her? "Dinner is ready." Before I could question her on it, Naruto's loud cheer ringed out before he raced towards her, grabbed her hand, and started leading the way inside.
"Let's go eat before the teme comes, Sakura-chan!"
"I'm going to make you regret those words, dope!" Naruto snickered and raced inside with Sakura and Sasuke right behind. With the newfound silence, my mind started to replay the conversation I just had with the mysterious girl.
I can't figure out at what I said that would hurt her feelings. Did I not decline her offer in a polite enough manner? Should I have not refused at all? Or was it my rejection that caused it? The thought rolled around in my mind for a while until it finally sunk in. I made her feel unwanted.
Only a handle full of top officials as well as my parents know who- or better what- Sakura's birth father is. Out of those people, not a single one has had as much contact with her as my mother, brother and I. The reasoning for that isn't even a well kept secret: they all think she's an abomination. A monstrosity that should never have been allowed to be born. Anytime they have contact with her, they make sure their ideology is well known to her specifically: "we hate you because you're a demon". And I practically said the same thing from the way I acted.
It wasn't necessarily about her wanting to help me with my exhaustion. It was about whether or not I would accept her knowing that she has the ability to do something only high ranking medical personnel can do at the age of six. This must be the first test I've failed. I sighed deeply, running a hand threw my hair. And I've been thinking about how uncomfortable she makes me feel without even taking in consideration how living in a world with people who hate her for being alive must feel.
If that's the case, then I need to try harder to be the person that shows her that it doesn't matter where her power comes from but rather how she chooses to use it. I at least owe that to her father.
Normal POV
Both families sat around the average sized dinner table eating and enjoying small talk with each other. Naruto and Sasuke, sitting across from each other, debated with each other on which of them would win in a race until they eventually came to a consensus that they will prove who would win after dinner considering they still haven't had a confirmed winner of their wrestling match since it was interrupted. Sakura, sitting between her mother and brother, quietly listened to the exchange, a content air surrounding her. Across from her, Itachi observed the three of them silently while also keeping an ear open to his mother's conversation with Toshira from his other side.
The two women were very hushed about the agreement they came to from their earlier conversation, but Toshira still was very hesitant to follow through. After all, if her children agreed, will she be able to properly protect them the same way she could if they choose not to go? That thought alone was enough to make Toshira want to cancel, but a determined look from Mikoto forced her hand. Clearing her throat, she caught the attention of the three children and Itachi.
"Naruto-kun, Saku-chan, I have a question for you both that I want you to answer honestly." Said children perked up, their full attention on their mother. "Keep in mind, no matter what you choose I will fully support your decision."
"Decision for what, mommy?" Naruto asked, confusion clear in his voice and face as he tilted his head to the side. Toshira paused, allowing one more look to Mikoto before continuing.
"Would you two like to start school at the Ninja Academy?" Almost immediately, Naruto's face lit up.
"Can I mommy?!" He nearly shrieked. Deep down, Toshira wanted to tell him no- that it's much safer for him to go to civilian school and learn a trade instead, but a larger part of her knew he wouldn't be happy. What kind of mother would she be if she forced her children to give up their happiness to ease her own self interests? Swallowing hard, she put on the brightest smile she could muster.
"Of course, Naruto-kun." The young boy shot up from his seat cheering.
"I'll become the strongest and then I'll be the hokage one day!" Toshira and Mikoto both blinked in surprise.
Since when did he want to become hokage? Itachi, on the other hand, couldn't help but think his career choice suited him. After all, Naruto's birth father become one of Konoha's most notorious hokage's. It only makes since his son would want to be so as well.
"What makes you want to become hokage, Naruto-kun?" Toshira carefully asked. Naruto lowered his arms from his cheering. His face scrunched as he folded his arms while he thought about it.
"If I'm hokage, then that means you and Sakura-chan can live like fancy people, right?" Again, Toshira was taken aback.
"Where is this coming from?" At that, a gentle grin graced his lips making his eyes sparkle.
"Because you both deserve it- like in the fairytales." Toshira couldn't help but return his genuine reaction with a soft smile. Her own anxieties qualled if only for this moment at seeing the determination on his face. I should expect nothing less from Minato's son.
"Then train hard for us, okay, Naruto-kun?" with an enthusiastic nod, Naruto sat back in his seat, pretending to punch bad guys in the air. Toshira giggled softly before turning her attention to Sakura. "What do you think, Saku-chan?" Unlike with Naruto, she can practically feel her daughter's inner struggle bringing a slight frown to her lips. What is her baby thinking about?
"I believe," Sakura slowly started, keeping her seemingly disinterested gaze on her plate in front of her, "that it would be nice to learn how to protect my precious people." Toshira kept her gaze locked on her daughter for a while trying to decipher what's going on in her mind.
"Is this what you two want? There are other option that you to can pursue as well."
"I have to do it mommy! Or how else will I become hokage?" Naruto announced.
"What makes you think you're going to be strong enough to become hokage?" Sasuke whispered loud enough for the orange clad boy to hear but quiet enough as to not provoke the wrath of his own mother.
With a deep scowl, Naruto stood once more and started to list all the reasons as to why he will become stronger and how he will get there. Toshira opened her mouth to calm his tirade, but the feeling of a small, warm hand on top of hers made her pause.
"Don't worry, mommy." Her daughter's almost silent words could barely be heard over Naruto's own booming one. "I won't let anything happen to nii-kun or myself. You don't have to worry about losing anyone else." Locking eyes with her daughter, Toshira couldn't help but feel a sense of comforting warmth fill her.
"Isn't it supposed to be my job to comfort you?" Toshira mused, using her other hand to pat Sakura's gently.
"That doesn't mean you don't need it as well." Well, she can't argue with that, can she?
With her nervous at ease, Toshira found herself feeling at peace for the rest of the night.
Three Months Later
Sakura's POV
"Remember, you have to listen to your teacher, alright?"
"We know-"
"And remember your manners when talking to your classmates."
"Mom-"
"And don't forget to eat your lunches-"
"Toshira-chan," Mikoto-san laughed as she placed a hand on mother's shoulder. "They're going to school, not to Suna." Mother looked over her shoulder at her before letting out a deep sigh.
"I know, I know. It's just…" Her voice trailed off as her eyes turned back to Nii-kun and me.
She didn't have to say it in order for me to understand how she's feeling- neither do I have to use any of my gifts. Mother has a habit of displaying whatever she's feeling through her eyes. Then again, they say the eyes are the window to the soul. Is that why you hide your true ones? I couldn't keep the frown from my face at the sound of that deep, dark voice coming from the recesses of my mind.
I've never told mother- or anyone about that voice. Even if I did, how can I explain it? What would they all think of me after finding out that the daughter of a demon can hear her own demon conscious within her own mind? Would they want me dead? Maybe not mother, but Itachi wouldn't need much convincing to want us dead. It took more self control then I care to admit as to not glance to mother's right at said boy and his younger brother.
After that day I offered him my help, my heart's been torn. I admit, I've had a long lasting admiration for him for a few years now, but I'm also not naive enough to think he'd reciprocate it. After all, I am the daughter of a demon. Someone like him could never see beyond that.
An arm wrapping gently around my neck bringing me closer to a familiar warm embraced cut off my thoughts. The scent of sweet tea and fresh soap filled my nostrils bringing a sense of calm over me that only my mother can cause. Almost like casting a jutsu.
"I'll be waiting for you after school, ok?" She started, pulling away from Nii-kun and me to look us in the eye. From beside me, Nii-kun put on his usual bright smile that always filled me with joy.
"Ok! And I won't let Sakura-chan out of my sight!" Nii-kun slid his arm around my shoulders, hugging me closely to his side. For some reason, he always smells like sunflowers and an earthy scent that reminded me of sweet grass. Strange since he's never around any of those things. Mother rising to her full height brought my senses to the present.
Mikoto-san had a hand on mother's shoulder while her she looked mother in the eyes. It looked like she was trying to comfort mother. Is it because we're going to be out of her sight or is she still worried about something happening to us? Either way, I'll have to use my gift to help mother relax. But shouldn't you save it for something more important?
Mother's health and well being is important.
Even if it means being vulnerable amongst these animals? I couldn't stop my eyes from narrowing slightly. I haven't figured out why yet, but the voice always talks about those around me as if they were the ones that weren't human. As if they need to be exterminated, but it never states why.
A gentle hand on my cheek brought my attention back to the present. Looking up, I couldn't help but feel safe as mother's dark green eyes stared down at me. It's almost as if you can see the love she held for me within them. How can I not use my gifts to help her?
"Have fun."
"I will, mommy." She flashed me one more smile before taking a step back.
"I'll be home by the time school is over. Itachi-kun will pick you three up."
Why would he want to pick up a monster?
Maybe he wants to kill us while mother's back is turned. That can't be what he wants to do. Glancing at him from the corner of my eye, I could see him speaking to Sasuke. He looked calm and relaxed. His scent of pinewood and smoke wafted off of him like always.
He doesn't seem like he's planning something like that.
Do hunters ever give you a warning before they attack?
But… maybe he won't-
Do you really believe he isn't thinking about it after he brushed you off? You know he's the hokage's watch dog, don't be so naive to think he won't kill you if your too much of a liability. I blinked slowly, trying hard not to wince. No matter how terrible or demonic the things that voice says are, I can't deny that it's right. I've known for a while that the leadership of Konoha has had an eye on my family- specifically nii-kun and I.
Maybe… I should be more cautious-
"I'll see you shortly, my darlings." I refocused just in time to see Mikoto-san pulling mother out of the academy gates with Itachi-san trailing behind them. A warm, soft hand grabbed mine, tugging me gently. Turning my head, I looked at Nii-kun's smiling face as all my worries started to melt away.
"Let's get going, Sakura-chan! If we get there early then we can sit together!"
"But you have to be fast enough to do so, dope." Sasuke said, standing on my other side, his hands stuffed in the pockets of his shorts. Nii-kun made a face.
"We'll see who gets there last, teme!" without another word, we raced inside the building.
Before Class
Sakura's POV
Thanks to nii-kun and Sasuke's racing, we were one of the first couple of people in class. However, since we all arrived at the same time, nii-kun and Sasuke weren't able to settle whose fastest between them. Like always, they got into a disagreeance but it wasn't as bad since I sat between them in our row. They settled down a bit more because of it, but I found that demonic voice in my head is always oddly quietly when both of them are around me. Maybe it's because of the differences in how they smell?
Nii-kun's scent always soothes whatever wild thoughts are circulating in my head, but Sasuke's scent is different. It's not like Itachi-san's, but his is a little similar. It reminds me more of fresh fruit and rich soil- almost earthy. Whatever it is, it makes me feel like I'm closer to home- closer to safety.
Maybe that's why I always feel better when both of them are around.
"It's Sasuke-kun!" A high pitch squeal sounded below us. Lowering my gaze, a group of three girls caught my attention as they stared up longing at my dark haired friend next to me. As they kept screeching and fawning, Sasuke let out a deep annoyed sigh while trying to hide his face from them.
"Annoying." he mumbled.
"Eh, they sound like mice." Nii-kun agreed on my otherside. I couldn't help but smirk.
Who knew they had a shared hatred for screeching fangirls?
The group of girl's raced up the stairs and sat directly behind Sasuke. They stared and squealed loudly while trying to touch him or gain his attention by throwing or dropping things in his direction. A vein popped out of his forehead the harder he tried to contain his annoyance while nii-kun was torn between laughing at his friend's predicament or helping him.
Well, I can't just let him continue to suffer.
"Do you want me to help you?" I asked, leaning a little closer to him. There was a resounding gasp of horror and rage behind me, but I didn't pay much attention to it.
"What can you do about it?" He scoffed, curling more into himself when a paper ball bounced off the top of his head. I hummed, resting my head on my fist as I glanced between him and the trio.
Maybe something that will annoy them as much as they're annoying him will suffice.
"I have a few tricks. It'll make them leave you alone for as long as you want." At that, he tilted his head enough for him to look at me with suspicious eyes.
"If you can do that, then I'll give you half of my lunch." I couldn't help but smile.
"I don't need anything. Seeing you happy is enough." He rolled his eyes and covered his face once more, but his scent grew a little stronger letting me know he was getting happy.
Now to fulfill my promise. Closing my eyes, I concentrated on my eyes for a few seconds before I felt a familiar itching feeling. Once it went away, all of my senses expanded until I could see a mental picture of the whole room without opening my eyes.
I can practically see where everyone is as well as sense what their doing. Each person looked like a human shaped light blue fireball- each person with a varying brightness. The only exception was nii-kun. His is a mixture of blue and red. Taking a deep breath, I concentrated on my own fire image until three dark blue tendrils manifested around me. They moved in a waving pattern- almost like a tail wagging- as they floated around me, waiting for me to tell them what to do.
Whenever they go near Sasuke, give them a shock. Flexing my fingers, they immediately shot into the bodies of the three girls.
After turning my eyes back to normal, loud screams of pain sounded behind me. Opening my eyes, I glanced to the other side of the room to see the trio huddled together in a corner. Their eyes were filled with terror as they rubbed at their arms as if something had been stinging them. They kept their gaze on Sasuke, but they didn't dare get close to him.
Looks like they even learned to be quieter too.
"What did you do?" Blinking, I shifted my gaze to Sasuke who know looked at me in pure shock and amazement.
"I told you, I have a few tricks."
"And she's awesome!" Nii-kun added in, throwing an arm across my shoulders and pulling me closer to him. Sasuke's eyes narrowed slightly before they softened. He grunted, but he held up his fist to me. With a smirk, I bumped his with my own knowing full well what that meant: thank you.
Before anymore words could be said, a man in a green flack jacket walked into the room. His dark brown held was in a high spiky ponytail with a Konoha headband wrapped around the front. The only other thing about him that caught my attention was the horizontal scar across his nose.
A battle scar?
"Hello everyone! My name is Iruka and I will be your sensei for this year. Please take your seat so class may begin." While everyone shuffled to their seats, I felt eyes on the side of my face. Glancing over, one the girl's in the trio was glaring hard at me.
Someone is bitter.
"So, what did you really do to them?" Sasuke whispered as Iruka-sensei started his introductory speech. Turning to him, I winked before focusing back on Iruka-sensei.
It's not the right time to tell them about my gifts. Besides, that would require a lot of explaining that isn't exactly appropriate right now.
"This year, we will learn the basics of being a shinobi including history, fighting techniques, and introductory chakra control. You will…" I tuned out his voice as my eyes started to wonder around the room.
I already know what we will be learning in this class already. After all, I've learned the tendrils I can control can be used for much more than to give people shocks. For example, once mother said nii-kun and I would be able to go to the academy, I wanted to see what kind of place it was. I did promise mother I wouldn't let anything happen to nii-kun while we're here, after all. So, every night since then, I've sent out my tendrils to get information.
Originally, I was going to stick them to someone and watch them, but after the third day of doing that, I learned that, if I concentrate enough, I can see whatever surroundings they're in. That opened an entirely new door of possibilities. With that power, I was able to map out the entire landscape of the academy from the roof to the underground escape tunnels that lay beneath. However, after a month and a half of using that skill, I learned another thing they can do: look through people's thoughts. To be more specific, Iruka-sensei's.
At the time, I didn't know he was going to be our sensei. Honestly, I didn't think he was a sensei at all. I thought he was an administrator. Either way, when I saw him entire an office while I was looking through files on the incoming students that would be in our class, I was curious if I could get any information from him. I mean, I already knew I could send my tendrils into people, is it too crazy to think I can send them into someone's mind? To my shock, I found it was easier than I thought to get the technique, but it drained more energy than I can produce at once. Actually, that's the only downside to the tendrils.
If used right, I think they can truly be unstoppable. After all, how can you fight something you can't see or feel? However, you need the energy reserves to use them. Right now, I don't have enough. Granted, I've learned I have an abnormal amount for someone of my age group, but it's still not enough to do the things I believe I'm capable of. Like, for instance, convincing the hokage, elders, and high ranking shinobi to leave nii-kun and mother alone.
But that will take nearly all of my current energy to just maintain the amount of tendrils necessary- nevermind overpowering their own will and forcing them to comply. Maybe I can get more reserves from the training here? Either way, I will use this opportunity to get stronger. I won't let anyone hurt my precious people- not if I can do something about it.
Lunch
Sakura's POV
Why can't nii-kun and Sasuke settle their differences in simpler ways? I thought, trying hard not to laugh as I ate my lunch. I sat underneath a large oak tree in the pavilion… alone. I would have had my two knuckleheads with me, but they decided to get into an argument in the middle of class getting them both detention.
Normally, that wouldn't be a problem. Students get into debates all the time, but nii-kun and Sasuke aren't normal students. Nii-kun got angry and had to throw his chair at Sasuke. Instead of letting it go, Sasuke had to retaliate by punching nii-kun in the face starting a brawl between the two. Iruka-sensei was able to break it up when he got to them, but they both ended with detention hence why I'm eating alone.
That doesn't mean I can't check on them. Finishing the last of my lunch, I took a deep breath and closed my eyes.
After the itching sensation went away, I summoned a tendril and sent it straight to our classroom. Once it was there, I focused more energy into it until a clear image of the room appeared in my mind. Nii-kun and Sasuke sat next to each other in the front row while Iruka-sensei stood in front of them with a look of disappointment.
"I expect more from you two. You two could be so powerful if you only work together rather than against each other. Think about your friend. How does it make her feel to see you two fight so much?"
I didn't think he was paying that much attention to us. Granted, I'm sure someone briefed him- if only a little- about the two new students shrouded in mystery and horror stories. Even if not everyone knows about who we really are, it didn't stop many from coming up with their own conclusions based solely on the attack that happened the day we were both born.
That's what happens when you try to take a demon's children away.
Or what happens when animals find out the aren't the masters of this world. Almost immediately, dark purple tendrils materialized around the room out of thin air. Unlike mine, these danced around wildly around the room, ready to strike at any moment.
I guess I'm too far away from nii-kun and Sasuke to make you shut up.
Do you honestly think they would want to be around for much longer when they find out about what you can do? About me?
They're my family-
Are you still so naive as to think that's true? It's words echoed in my head for much longer than I wanted. I already have my anxieties and fears about what they will think or do when they find out the truth about me- I don't need them repeated.
First, I need to get rid of you for now. Pouring more chakra into the link to my tendrils, they brightened until they looked almost solid rather than fuzzy. In one quick, fluid motion, they shot forward, piercing the dark purple tendrils. The monstrous voice in my mind roared and cursed in rage. Ignoring the voice, I called back my tendrils until I could see a perfect image of the yard I sat in. My classmates were still off playing amongst themselves not paying any attention to me.
It only makes it easier to practice with my tendrils. Taking in a deep breath, I summoned five more tendrils bringing the total floating in front of me to nine.
With this many, my vision sharpened until it was like I was looking at the world through a microscope. I could see every blade of grass move to the soft breeze. Every indent in the dirt from when my classmates and others walked on it. However, the one thing that concerned me was how much color left my face. I looked like I was getting sick.
Could I be using more energy than I thought? Then again, this is enhanced sight. I could just be seeing my actual pigment without any interference from light or something like that. Either way, I still need to do one more thing.
Then I can rest up a bit. Taking a deep breath, I pictured a particular blue fire form somewhere in the village in my minds eye. Slowly, the image of the yard evaporated until all I could see are the blue forms of my classmates. I didn't focus on there's- only the one in my head.
Find it. On command, the tendrils dispersed, shooting across the village at a speed that made my head spin. They based hundreds- if not thousands- of various blue fire forms. Seeing the multiple images from my tendrils all at once brought on a painful headache. Gritting my teeth, I balled a fist in the dirt beneath me. After what felt like ages, one of my tendrils sent a small shock. It found it.
Or, rather him. Sure enough, hunched over his desk in the tall ANBU building beside the Hokage Tower, was Itachi Uchiha. Even though he said he didn't want my help, I can't stop myself from giving it. How can I not? Even now, he barely has enough chakra in his system to defend himself from Sasuke let alone from someone who seriously wanted to do him harm. Why can't I use my gifts to show people that I don't have to be a monster? Who knows, maybe, just maybe, if Itachi-san sees what I can do, maybe he'll be the first to see me as more than a monster.
And do you honestly believe he'll take the word of a demon child without dissecting first? In the small room my tendril found Itachi-san, a faint dark purple mist started to coat the floor. Swallowing hard, I pushed that tiny voice further back in my mind, dispersing the mist.
I should get back to nii-kun and Sasuke before something bad happens. It's taking more and more energy to push that voice back- more than I should be sparing.
Quickly calling all of my tendrils to Itachi-san, I filled one with extra chakra until it practically glowed like a flashlight. Without Itachi-san even noticing, I pushed the tendril into his body. Almost immediately, he laid his head fully on his desk, falling into a peaceful sleep while the tendril dissolved, refilling his chakra slowly. The others went to work on the mounds of paper stacked on his desk and floor.
Concentrating on them, all but one slowly morphed until they took human shaped dark blue fire forms. Each of them moved to a stack of paper, sorting the documents to where they needed to be sent after being finished. With the last tendril, I put it into Itachi-san's mind to get all the information needed to fill out the papers. Once I got all the information, I sent it to the tendrils. They didn't waste time getting to work. In total, it took them about five minutes to finish everything. When everything was done, I summoned them back to me and dispelled them.
That was a lot more work then last time. When my eyes went back to normal, I opened them. Immediately, I noticed the uncomfortable dampness coating my face and that made my shirt stick to my body. My heart was pounding a mile a minute and I couldn't catch my breath. When I checked my energy levels, the symptoms made started to make since.
Chakra exhaustion. I used even more energy than I thought for it to be this bad. Next time, I need to be more careful. Grabbing a napkin from my lunchbox, I wiped the sweat away, taking deep calming breaths.
I don't need people asking questions about why I have chakra exhaustion. Placing the dirty napkins and the rest of my trash into my lunchbox, I focused on trying to relax. Sitting in silence for a few minutes can really help-
"Hey, you!"
There goes that idea. Looking up, I saw the group of girls from class heading towards me. Once they reached me, they formed a half circle with the girl I'm guessing is the ring leader in front.
"We have a problem." She said, crossing her arms and glaring down at me. I didn't pay much attention to them before- mainly because I didn't see a reason to- but looking at them now, it's clear they come from shinobi backgrounds.
The girl in front of me had shoulder length dark brown hair but light brown eyes. For a six year old, her muscles were tone and you can tell she's lost a majority of her baby fat. Glancing to my right, I'm almost positive this girl is related to Sasuke or Itachi-san in some way. She had their trademark dark hair and eyes but she had small traces of freckles across her nose that you could only see if you looked hard enough. The final girl had long blonde hair that was tied in a high ponytail. She had blue eyes, but they can't compare to nii-kun's.
"Don't ignore me when I'm talking!" I blinked slowly, looking back at the girl in front of me.
Her voice is too high pitched.
Why not rip out their vocal cords? Feeling a tug at the back of my mind, I frowned. Is the demon trying to take control? I don't even want to think about what it'll do to these girls if it did.
I don't want to know what your capable of.
Why? Are you afraid you'll see what you really are?
"Was that civilian woman your mother?" Mother? My frown deepened as I used the little energy I had left to push back the demon so I can focus on the girl's surrounding me.
What do they want with mother?
"I don't know who you're referring to." The ring leader scoffed, rolling her eyes.
"The red haired woman from this morning? Is she your mother or not? And that blonde haired freak- is he your brother?"
"Yes." I slowly said, watching each of them carefully. Are they planning on hurting them? At that, her eyes darkened as she took a step towards me.
"So you are the daughter of a peasant?! How dare you think you can be around my Sasuke-kun when you aren't even worthy to clean his shoes!"
Oh, I get it now. They're bullies. Internally, I sighed deeply while watching them cautiously as the ringleader and the blonde girl got closer to me. However, the dark haired girl just stared at me in what looked like… shock? Recognition? I've never seen her before so I don't know why she would know me. When the other two girls were a few feet away from me, I got a feeling that this wasn't going to end well if I stayed sitting. Standing, I picked up my lunch bag and stared at them.
"Where do you think you're going?" The ringleader almost growled at me.
"Inside. I'm finished eating." I stated slowly.
It's easier talking to wild animals. That only made her anger grow.
"Did I say you could-"
"It was you." Everyone looked at the dark haired girl.
What's she talking about?
"My daddy said that red haired woman is the reason that demon attacked and killed my mommy!"
Oh, she wants revenge. Tears shined in her eyes as she took a step towards me. From the corner of my eye, I could see the other two looking between me and the girl as if they didn't know what to do. However, it didn't take them long to follow her lead and get closer to me until they were in arms reach. This isn't going to end well.
"Your whole family is filled with monsters and murderers! My daddy said your mother was that demons harlot and you and your stupid brother are his bastards." No matter how hard I tried to hide it, I couldn't stop my eyes from narrowing. I could feel my chakra whipping around inside of me, wanting to be let out and wreak havoc.
Why not? They insulted our precious people- punish them!
"You can say what you want about me, but you have no right to talk about my family in that manner."
Show them what happens when you disrespect our precious people! A tingling sensation started behind my eyes- the first sign of my power coming out. Taking a deep breath, I squeezed my eyes closed.
No, I won't be the monster they think I am. Without looking, I tried to walk past them. When I felt two pairs of hands grabbing my shoulders, my eyes snapped open. Shoving their hands off, I tried to walk away again, but the ring leader stood in my way.
"Move." It was getting harder to hold myself back from attacking them. I could feel blood pooling in my balled hands.
"Looks like we need to teach you a lesson." She smirked.
Before I could think to react, the blonde haired girl on my left shoved me to the ground. Immediately, one of them started to kick me in the stomach while another held me down by a fist full of my hair and the final one punched me anywhere she could. While they attacked me, they shouted different things. Some had to do with Sasuke, others about Naruto, and a few about my mother and father. It didn't really matter what they said, because I was too focused with trying to stay in control.
Stay calm-
Kill them!
They don't deserve to die!
Tear them apart!
They're just kids!
KILL THEM- KILL THEM- KILL THEM- KILL THEM- KILL THEM! My eyes changed so quickly I barely registered the itching sensation beforehand. Squeezing my eyes closed, I could see five of my tendrils whipping around violently. Nine dark purple tendrils were amongst them making moves to attack my assailants.
No! As if a barrier were around them, the tendrils weren't able to get any closer to them, but I could feel my energy draining even more. Digging my fingers into the dirt, I could feel my body being drenched in sweat again as I tried hard to keep the tendrils from killing the girls.
KILL THEM! THEY DESERVE IT! THEY DESERVE IT! KILL THEM!
NO!
KILL- suddenly, the beating stopped and the grip on my hair disappeared. The demon's voice went silent causing the dark purple tendrils to vanish and my own to calm. Quickly, I dispelled them and turned off my demon eyes. Slowly, I opened my eyes. A dark haired girl with light grey eyes knelt in front of me.
"Are you alright?" Her face was twisted in concern as she held out a hand to me. I blinked, at her, pushing myself into a sitting position.
"Get out of here, Ami!" Looking past the dark haired girl, another girl with bright blonde hair stood in front of the three girls that attacked me. I couldn't see her face, but from the way she stood with her hands on her hips and her feet shoulder width apart gave me the impression she's not exactly happy.
"This is none of your business, Ino!"
"It is when your beating someone that's not fighting back! Now get out of here before you have to deal with me!" The ring leader, Ami, looked as if she wanted to fight her, but the other two obviously are afraid Ino.
"Let's get out of here, Ami." The blonde said, putting a hand on her shoulder.
"Yeah, someone probably has called Iruka-sensei by now anyway." the dark haired girl bitterly stated, her glare never leaving my form.
Why not rip her eyes out?
Shut up. Slowly, I moved to my feet, the grey eyed girl kept her arms out in case I fell, but she didn't touch me. They don't hit as hard as I thought they would. Rolling my shoulders, my body ached, but it's the kind of pain you'd feel if you woke up after sleeping on something uncomfortable.
Why not put them to sleep so they never wake up?
I said shut up!
"Watch your back, monster!" The dark haired girl spat as she followed Ami and the blonde girl back into the building.
Are you just going to let them speak to you however they want? What happened to wanting to be strong?
Deep breath. Closing my eyes, I counted backwards from ten.
"You alright?" Slowly, I opened my eyes. Ino was half turned to me with her hands still on her hips. Her bright blue eyes glanced over me like she was assessing the damage done.
Of course it's going to look worse then what it actually is. Using the back of my hand, I wiped the blood from my lip from when one of those bullies kicked me in the lip.
"You shouldn't just lay down like a defenseless dog and let someone beat you." It took more energy than I currently had to stop myself from glaring at her. "You should stand up for yourself or else you won't be a powerful kunoichi."
Maybe you shouldn't talk about something that you don't know about.
Why not show her what you really can do?
"You should be a little nicer, Ino-chan." The dark haired girl stated next to me in a painfully shy voice. "It was an unfair fight to begin with."
"And? There will be plenty more when we become ninjas." Ino said, crossing her arms, and looking across the field with her nose raised a little.
So, is she stuck up or trying to give tough love? The dark haired girl, gave her a disapproving frown before turning to me.
"I'm sorry about her." She whispered loud enough for only us to hear. "My name is Hinata and she's Ino. What's your name?" I hummed, looking from her to Ino.
Hinata… she seems nice, but I don't know about Ino. Without answering, I started to walk away. I need to clean myself up before nii-kun and Sasuke see me-
"Sakura-chan!"
Speaking of. I took in a deep breath as both Hinata and Ino looked over to the doors to see nii-kun and Sasuke running towards us. When they reached us, nii-kun's permanent bright smile fell once his eyes looked over me.
"Sakura-chan, what happened?" Nii-kun asked, placing his hands on my shoulders so he could move me from side to side so he could see all of my injuries. Sasuke looked over me as well, his eyes narrowing in anger as his eyes saw something that he didn't like.
"Who did this, Sakura?"
Well, this isn't the conversation I wanted to have.
"Well, Sasuke-kun," Looking over to Ino, my brow raised the stark difference in her demeanor. One minute she was being tough and now she's fangirling over Sasuke?
Is she going to be a problem like the other three?
"I just came out with Hinata to see that A-"
"I was training." Four pairs of eyes landed on me. "It got a little rougher than I thought." Hinata and Ino both looked confused but that's not my problem.
I have no reason to explain myself to people I just met. However, nii-kun and Sasuke's unconvinced expressions worried me. It's not a very convincing lie but it's not like it's impossible.
"Sakura," Sasuke started, his voice stern, "tell us the-"
"You should be more careful next time, Sakura-chan." Nii-kun cut him off, his bright smile back on his face. He grabbed my hand giving it a comforting squeeze. "I'll take you to the nurses office. You'll heal faster there."
So… he believes me? I stared him in the eye confused. His eyes softened and he winked. Just like that, I knew what he meant.
"Tell me later."
Nii-kun. I couldn't help but relax with two of my precious people by my side. With a wave to Ino and Hinata, we made our way to the nurses office.
After School
Sakura's POV
"That was so boring!" Nii-kun yawned loudly, standing from his chair and stretching. Sasuke grunted from my left, standing as well and placing his hands in his pockets.
"Maybe to someone who can't comprehend it." Nii-kun shot him a glare.
"Oh yeah, teme?!" Sasuke returned his glare.
"Yeah, dope."
"I don't need to know about the history of the village to beat you!" Nii-kun growled, pointing over my head at Sasuke. Sasuke's glare deepened.
"You can't even beat me in a race much less a fight, dope."
"Oh yeah?"
"Yeah!"
"I bet I can beat you to the gates!"
"Please- that's too easy, dope."
"Then let's race right now!"
"Get ready to lose then, dope."
"Bet, teme!"
"Dope!"
"Teme!" Without even needing someone to start it, the two took off, jumping over the desks and dashing out of the room.
Lively as ever. I couldn't help the small smile on my face as I stood with only a slight ache.
When we went to the nurses office, I was a little surprised to see that she was a civilian nurse. Then again, I doubt the school expects any of us to get injured enough to require a full time medic-nin. Besides, all I needed was a few bandages and a pain killer. It's not like I was seriously hurt.
That's not going to stop mother from being worried too. Sighing, I stood up heading out the door.
"Hey, Sakura!" Pausing at the door, I glanced over my shoulder. Hinata and Ino stopped a few feet away from me. Hinata had her head half angled to the floor with a small smile on her face. On the other hand, Ino looked confident as she stood with a hand on her hip.
So she has split personalities- one with Sasuke and one around normal people.
"Why didn't you tell Sasuke-kun and the other kid the truth about Ami and her minions? Do you really want to let them get away with what they did?" I blinked at her for a moment before turning forward again.
"You don't need to be concerned with what I do." Without waiting for her response, I walked out the room. Walking down the hall and out the front door, I can't help but think about her question.
Why am I keeping what happened to myself?
Because you want to look weak. Rolling my eyes, I counted down from ten, pushing the demon's voice to the back of my mind.
No, because the consequences of telling Iruka-sensei what happened is worse then just keeping it a secret. If I tell Iruka-sensei, then he'll tell mother. Mother would then feel guilty even more than she already does about the day we were born. What would it do to her to know that I'm being bullied over something that she can't control?
That's not even mentioning what knowing what they're calling us will do to nii-kun. It's nothing that he hasn't heard before from the occasional stranger on the street, but this is different. These are our classmates- our peers. What will it do to him to know that they think he's a monster? It's best to keep it to myself.
Maybe I can ask Itachi-san what to do? My stomach fluttered a bit at the thought. If I told him what I think about all of this, would he think of me as more human?
Or believe you're a monster more? The demon whispered. That was more than enough to suck the excitement out of me.
If more people who don't know me see me as a monster, would it make him think I am?
Would he want to kill you for it? I squeezed my eyes shut as I stepped out into the sunlight.
Maybe… maybe one day I can change his mind about me. Slowly, I opened my eyes to see the gates to the academy.
Students and their family poured out of it while a few people stayed by it. It only took a moment for me to find nii-kun, Sasuke, and Itachi-san. However, there was one person with them that I didn't know.
Who's that woman? Next to Itachi-san, was a dark haired woman. Her hair was a few shades lighter in color than Itachi-san and Sasuke's making it look almost blue. Even her eyes were lighter making them look more brown than black. She had to be around Itachi-san's age judging from the chunin vest and that she's about the same height as him. However, what really stood out about her was her beauty.
Of course she is- what else can you expect from a clan filled with models? I couldn't help the negative feelings that bubbled in the pit of my stomach against her as she laughed with nii-kun and Sasuke. She even playfully pushed Itachi-san as if she were teasing him and he smiled. Well, it's a half smile, but a smile nonetheless.
He… he's never smiled around me. Above the jealousy I felt for her, I couldn't help but feel hurt. They all look so relax- happy. They've never looked that way when I'm around. They've never been so laid back and carefree. Am I really that much of a burden? Or does this mean everyone is always on edge around me because they all see me as a monster?
Maybe I should... go home alone. I started to head to the opposite side of the yard when I saw nii-kun wave at me.
There goes that plan. Taking a breath, I walked towards the group as they all slowly turned their attention to me. When Itachi-san saw me, his smile immediately dropped, a frown taking its place.
Does he hate me so much that he can't smile when I'm around?
"What happened to you?" The woman asked, her face twisted in concern. Looking between her and Itachi's frown, I can't help but picture what they looked like a few seconds ago when I wasn't here.
I can't help but think the bandages are just apart of the reason he isn't happy anymore.
"Training got a little out of hand." I said as plainly as I can. Why should I let them know how I'm feeling? The woman opened her mouth to say something, but I grabbed nii-kun's hand and started walking away. "Mother will be expecting us home soon. It's best if we head home alone." I said over my shoulder. I could sense that nii-kun was confused, but he didn't say anything.
He allowed me to drag him behind me for a while until we couldn't see the academy anymore. He sped up a little so we walked side by side. For a few minutes, he didn't say anything. He just watched me as we walked at a steady pace.
"Sooo, why didn't we walk home with everyone?"
I'm surprised he waited so long to ask. Weighing the options of telling him the truth and trying to change the subject, I let out a deep breath.
"Who was that woman? The one with Itachi-san and Sasuke, I mean." He raised a brow before turning his head to the sky as if thinking.
"Izumi? I think that's what Itachi called her." Dropping his gaze back to me, he gave me a small smile. "I think they're close friends or something like that. I mean, they do talk a lot and she talks to him like he's a-" His voice drowned out as I lowered my eyes to the ground.
So, they are close. I mean, why wouldn't he want to be close to someone like her? She's pretty, strong enough to be a chunin, and charming if she was able to get a smile out of Itachi-san. Plus, she carried herself like a kunoichi- confident and mature.
Itachi-san is better off being around someone like her than a monster like me. Besides, I bet no one calls her trash. Yeah, he's better off.
And that's a wrap! Sorry again for the late update! I've had very bad writers block on a particular scene in this one that's had me stumped for a bit. I hope you enjoyed!