XoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoX XoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoX
Summary:
To save everyone, Marco used his current existence. Never did he imagine that he will be reborn to a new world different from his own. It is a world filled with ninjas and creatures as large as Sea Kings that are made of pure living chakra. What can a pirate like him do to survive especially if he is a freaking bird? Thatch is right; he does look like a chicken. And a certain blue-eyed blonde is thinking of him as her new pet.
XoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoX
Of Flaming Feathers and Bloodstained Furs
By: Zelga Lim Li
XoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoX
Part 14
Whatever happens in Nami no Kuni stays in Nami no Kuni. Or so Hatake Kakashi thought.
Gatō's wealth was divided equally among the people and to those he oppressed during his tyrannical rule, even the neighboring villages themselves.
The thugs surrounding the businessman's mansion was 'apprehended' accordingly.
And his former hired shinobis?
Well, Momochi Zabuza still died. And he did so with his pride and honor as a shinobi of the Hidden Mist.
The said man does plan on doing so while fighting him for some reason the Kiri-nin didn't elaborated further (his ninken may have detected something during their fight but they won't talk about it). But then their battle was interrupted, so yeah.
It was Momochi himself who took care of the men Gatō hired to protect his possessions. Aside from the documents the girl mentioned, the greedy businessman has been keeping all his money and acquired belongings in the basement.
So we all knew what happened next.
The ones Zabuza missed was dealt appropriately by Haku freezing them like popsicle sticks.
The said rogue-nin even demanded to acquire his own bounty and hand it to the girl so that she can start over once he is gone.
Admirable.
And the said act made Naruto cry all over again much Marco's fond expression and Zabuza's irritation avoiding the hug his student tried to give upon him.
After they burn his body and took Momochi's head for identification, the four Konoha nins and the Phoenix went their way back home.
With two extra companions.
The famed jōnin should have anticipated everything beforehand. Well Thatch-san is. But the girl, the fake hunter-nin, may be another matter.
"Haku's my friend and I promised Zabuza-san to help her start a new life in Konoha." He is not even going to think about the respect the girl suddenly had for the said Kiri-nin.
But the implications of bringing a rare bloodline may comfort the council and…
"She will not be used as a weapon, yoi." The Phoenix stated firmly as if the teen read his mind. "If she wishes to fight for your village - that is entirely up to her. But until then, she is Naruto's friend. First and foremost, understand?"
Right.
.
.
"I see…" Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded as he looked at his shinobis and three guests.
With a small smile, he looked at his surrogate granddaughter who clutches the new girl's sleeves as if she is worried for her friend's fate.
Marco himself is looking at him in defiance, with a silent challenge in his eyes. Just like the first time he saw him many years ago.
And the older man who is another lost soul from the same sea looks at him apologetically on behalf of his friend's behavior.
Thatch, another commander of the Whitebeard Pirates - was presumed to be dead by his nakama after the betrayal of one of their own because of one fruit.
Intriguing yet highly disturbing for these fruits to be coveted for its mysterious abilities.
"Both are more than welcome to stay," He said with a firm set of his jaw (to hell with his council, they always nag anyway). "And until she decides what to do, she can stay with you, Naru-chan…" And when he saw the girl's face brightens and hugs the girl happily with Sakura cheering by their side, it was totally worth it. This was the least he can do for his predecessor's child (he knew his shortcomings and that cannot be forgotten). Especially now that he's here. There is nothing he needs to worry about.
"Uh…"
"Same goes for you, Thatch-san."
"You won't require me to transform into an animal, right? Because I honestly cann-… oomph!" Marco may be smaller physically but he is strong. The taller man glared at him while rubbing his stomach.
"Rude."
Laughing amusedly, the Third looked at Kakashi. Like always, the silver haired jōnin took his cue and urges his genin team out to fill up some needed paperworks.
"Whaaat! Is that supposed to be your job?!" Naruto exclaims in surprise eyeing her sensei suspiciously. Sasuke sighed and tugs Naruto out of the room while Sakura and Haku follows shortly behind.
Nodding in acquiescence, the last surviving member of her clan, added some input of her own that they all heard which made Thatch laugh. "You also promised to show me around, remember?" Haku spoke with affection towards the blonde. Ah. Hiruzen definitely approves her presence.
"Maaa. I do need your help guys, come on. Besides, Haku-chan still need to fill up some residency forms as well…" The two pirates watch Team 7 and Haku leave. Thatch chuckled when Naruto has been forcibly drag out of the room by the teme er Uchiha brat. Kakashi's voice rang indulgently as he led the children out and gently closes the door behind.
He did get a glimpse of Naruto's worried expression as she steals a glance towards the Phoenix. Marco's own eyes are unreadable though. Hmmm.
"Perhaps being honest with her could be more than alright?" Thatch commented as he felt a slight change in the room as if something was 'activated' or whatnot. Humming softly to himself, the fourth division commander looks around curiously.
Hiruzen did notice his reaction and smiled impressedly. These people are really interesting.
Haki. That's what they call these abilities. Like chakra, it is something that can be learned but not everyone can use it like these pirates can do. Team 7 has already been introduced with Naruto being the first and the most knowledgeable of them all.
He does understand Tobirama-sensei's concerns about these people.
But having them as allies are highly benificial. Not that he plans to use them or anything. Really. His intentions are quite clear on that front.
Besides, he thinks that Naruto would not allow it. And the girl will make sure that her friends remain as such.
Tapping his fingers rhythmically to finish the silencing seal surrounding the room (one can never be too careful), he stood and approaches the two. The taller pirate (seems like he is now the wielder of Momochi Zabuza's sword) took a stance and places himself beside the younger looking teen who is still looking at the door.
"No need to worry, I won't take much of your time…," With a quick glance from his window, Hiruzen notices Naruto with her new friend waiting outside. "My former student, Jiraiya, will be arriving in a few days with the information I requested."
"And that concerns us, yoi?"
The taller man shakes his head as he tried to pull Marco's shirt to reprimand him.
"He is someone I trust and one of the very few that can help the two of you find your way back home…"
The expression the Phoenix made is something Hiruzen already anticipated. But it still surprises him to an extent.
.
.
Marco stills upon hearing the said word.
Home.
It was concept that he doesn't understand at first especially in consideration of his very long life. It took his first few rebirths to comprehend its real meaning. It did started to become more than just a word after accepting oyaji's invitation. Especially after the crew of two started to grow.
"I see…" The two did notice something in him change. But thankfully, they didn't point it out. "Thanks kid. I'll owe you one." With a smile that didn't reach his eyes, he went straight by the window and flew. He did saw Naruto (with Haku beside her) outside the building, possibly waiting for them. Cursing internally, he went past the girls promising to explain everything later.
For now, he needed to be alone.
.
.
"Wow," Thatch muttered in surprise as he watches his friend leave without any warning or farewell.
And the said 'teenager' left him behind. On his own. In a very foreign place. With a man he knew nothing of (except that the said man already met Marco way before he joined the crew).
Fantastic.
Not that he cannot get around the village or something. He did hear Naruto trying to call Marco's attention minutes after the Phoenix jumps out of the building. And the teen did ignore her which is gotta be trouble on itself. "I really didn't expect that…"
Hiruzen sighed and glances back at him questioningly. "I am to assume that this behavior is unprecedented?"
"Among all of us, Marco has complete control over his emotions just as how he mastered his Devil Fruit ability."
Which begs to differ the matter at hand. What could possibly be the reason?
"I suppose the rest can be settled at a later time…"
"You mean there's more?" Mumbling under his breath, Thatch finally looks worryingly towards the old man.
"Well, it is about your accommodations." The village leader stated in a reassuring manner. Not that it calms Thatch for one bit.
.
.
Naruto ran after the Phoenix. The direction he flew into could be anywhere.
Haku promised to wait for Thatch so she don't need to worry about them.
After she arrives at the edge of the training grounds towards the forest, she bit her lips thinking of her next action.
For whatever reason, Marco closed off their bond (she never know that it can be done, ugh).
And it scares her.
It is like one of those times (the before) when she's still living on her own.
Ignored.
Treated like trash.
So she tried to think (even if it isn't her strongest trait ever). What could the old man possibly told him to react this way?
Disappointment lighting her features when she came back empty.
Argh.
Naruto glares at nothing and crosses her arms as she walks in a circular manner.
If she cannot find Marco, what's the use of all the knowledge he imparted upon her?
Fine.
She'll do it the old fashioned Naruto way. Kiba did told her that her tracking ability is not like an Inuzuka. But of something else.
And add the fact that her 'bond' with the said pirate is not just any connection.
Alright then.
After retying her hitai-ate and black scrunchies (she can now braid her hair despite being unruly), Naruto bended one knee and places her right hand with the palm touching the ground. She closes her eyes and directed her awareness towards her center. After a few calming breaths, she counted a second up to a minute before expanding her chakra and releases small increments of web like threads to track her 'target'.
Marco may not be aware of it but he does have a considerable amount of chakra for a non-shinobi. And he cannot be considered a regular civilian either. Same goes for Thatch-san. Perhaps it is a pirate thing.
And like many others, his chakra is distinct. Easily identifiable. Possibly to her since she tried comparing it with the others. Even to his friend.
The very first time she attempted this 'sensing' business, her range is about 5 kilometers that impresses Kakashi-sensei when he learned what she is trying to do. He even promised to gave her a few scrolls about being a sensor (not that she plans to be one).
This time though, she was able to double her range.
It still wasn't enough. So she need to make it bigger.
Wider.
Her perception traveled through the village up until she reaches the farther edge of the forest in the opposite direction. And a very familiar one at that.
It was very faint. But-
Opening her eyes as she wipes a bead of sweat trickling down her face. Naruto frowned upon remembering that part of the woods.
It was the place where she found him.
Silently she hoped.
And regardless of all that is happening right now, she still wishes for him to stay.
'Please don't leave me…'
.
.
Sitting atop the highest branch of the tallest tree he found in Konoha's surrounding forests, Marco sighed as he covered his face with both hands. Ignoring the scent of the woods and leaves he started to grow fond of these past few days.
For whatever reason, the thought of going back with the others isn't as tempting as before (even if he has Thatch with him and will be considered a surprise for the rest of the crew especially Ace once they returned).
Not that he didn't want to go back.
He do have responsibilities as oyaji's first mate. Don't forget about the old man's dwindling health.
The entire crew.
Their allies.
The territories they vowed to protect.
Everyone's dreams…
And then there's Naruto.
Clenching one fist as he drag the other over his tresses - due to limited shaving gears except for a sharp kunai, Thatch was able to trim his hair in mohawk style.
What does he really want anyway?
As he ponder on these things, he did notice her arrival.
She looks winded even.
Seems like her 'technique' used up majority of her chakra. A deviation of observation haki that surprises him after he read her notes on the said topic. Her sensing abilities does surpass a normal tracker as per Kakashi's own words. Even him.
At first, he thought of her presence in his life as inconsequential.
Like his previous rebirths, the one who took him in, help him heal and then in some way or another, return their kindness after he regain his full strength.
Just like how he met a dreamer named Edward Newgate. He doesn't even remember what he did for that earlier life to end abruptly. But it was oyaji who found him at the time.
And instead of letting him go, he invited him to join his 'crew'. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Now.
Now it is her very presence in his life that brings confusion to his very being.
His priorities.
And yet… he don't want to let her go.
It seems that he already made a decision. Unknowingly.
It did soothe his earlier crazed thoughts. A resolve that he have chosen following what his heart truly desires. It may change his-
That this decision might change both of their lives forever.
.
.
Catching her breath, Naruto leans at the tree she knew where Marco is perched at. Since she already used up her remaining chakra, the drain of using her sensing technique (and the exhaustion of their last mission) is finally taking its toll. And she does need to find a name for this awesome jutsu of hers.
Anyway, climbing up will require her remaining physical strength but even that is about to go empty. So she'll just wait for him to go down knowing that he already sensed her arrival.
And as much as she needed refueling (the smell of Ichiraku's ramen has never been more pronounced), Naruto decided to postpone her reunion with her beloved meal. One could say that her priorities had changed ever since she met him.
Marco seemed to have calmed down a bit and finally reopened their bond.
Taking a seat, the blonde kunoichi took out her journal and started writing, basking in Marco's comfort thru their connection.
Trying to sketch what his phoenix form looks like.
Er, it looks like a chicken. Hmm. Maybe she'll ask Haku to draw it for her.
He was…
Marco's full Phoenix form is really majestic.
And the way he fights.
Ah.
It made her undeserving. Like she needs to be- she needs to be something more than just a girl who knows her value.
She needs to be worthy of his presence.
Like her old dream. Yes. She used to want the old man's hat. To become a Hokage. For the village to finally acknowledge her.
Perhaps once she is this village's protector and strongest, he will look at her like she's his equal.
That she deserves him.
Her hands tightening on her pen, she scribbled furiously adding a few more things to do with her life and plans for the future.
She did felt him dropping down from above as the flames of his wings produces a bit of light. It was almost dark.
"Naruto."
Finishing the last of her entry, the blonde looks up beneath her lashes as she capped her pen.
"Ready to go home?" She knew that the pirate looks far more collected than what she saw earlier after he jumps out of the old man's office. Calming the beat of her heart, she held his gaze steadily. Even both of his eyes are unreadable, shadowed by the darkening sky. Clenching her right fist, she waited for him to speak up.
The matter from their previous disagreement, forgotten. Not knowing that what she is about to hear may be far more troublesome than her need to train and his obsessive want to protect her.
.
.
Marco knew that he needed to say something to his Naruto.
He does remember what happened in Nami no Kuni. And that the 'incident' with Haku's needles may have temporarily set their prior issue aside. Something he needed to address as he did promise to be truthful with her.
"The old man told us about someone who can help us find our way back, yoi."
Her eyes widened momentarily. He felt her pulse quicken so he kneeled in front of her and places a hand over her head.
"So, y-you and Thatch-san are g-going to…" Naruto stuttered as her journal fell from her grasp.
Ah, that news isn't what she expected. Her heart thrums faster and her eyes started to blur obscuring her vision.
His gaze soften as he took her within his arms. Marco lets Naruto calm herself for a few seconds and added gently, "It will still take some time since we don't really remember how we got here in the first place. And I doubt the man Hiruzen mentioned knows more, yoi."
Releasing herself from his grasp, Naruto glances timidly at him and picked her journal up as she avoided his gaze.
With a sigh, Marco took her hand and waited for the girl to look at him. A tear fell but she wipes it furiously away.
"S-sorry. I just…"
"You don't need to apologize, yoi," Marco wipes the rest of her tears with his fingers. Her dependency towards him may seem unhealthy enough from another's perspective (even Thatch pointed it out).
And he does know that this 'vulnerability' will improve overtime as her self-reliance grows.
But Marco knew that it was him who depended towards her at first.
So he will take whatever she can offer him. He's a pirate after all. Being greedy is part of the job description anyway.
And he won't let anyone take that away from them.
"I believe everything will work out, yoi." Holding her hand, he didn't let go.
.
.
Interlude: Kakashi
When he found out about an unknown creature that Naruto found as her new pet, he eyed the said animal suspiciously.
When it looked at his 'hiding spot' (and all ANBUs that are assigned to protect her from the shadows) as if the bird knew where to find him (especially the others), he knew that the 'thing' needed extra surveillance.
The Third obligingly agrees knowing that he will still do the said task not out of duty or responsibility - but because he wanted to protect the last remaining memory they had left.
So when he learned that the 'pet' isn't just a bird, he was furious.
But the Third made him see how the said animal can protect her on his own way.
Totally unacceptable.
He's a pirate for Kami-sama's sake.
And old.
Ancient even. The Third even mentioned that he met the man when he was still a genin under Tobirama-sama's own squad.
So that was like eons ago.
Not that he looked the part of a barbaric old buccaneer.
But still.
Naruto is too young for someone like him. Ah. He'll need to make sure that this marauder won't corrupt his sensei's daughter.
Or he won't hear the end of it once he joins them someday. Yeah.
XoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoX
Author's note:
Also cross-posted in AO3. Enjoy!
Appreciate the time the others took to leave a review. Also thanks a bunch for liking the story. Till next chapter.
Ja ne!
XoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoX XoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoXoX
