It Wasn't Me, It was the Voice

by SkellingtonZero

Naruto has a demon trapped inside him, been charged with his parents murder, and locked in a hospital all at the age of five. Now he's out and going to school thinking everything is going to be all right. But the demon has plans of his own that involve Hinata, some little demon babies, and a whole lot of chaos. And all he wanted was to have a normal life. -L mild language, death,

3. Chapter 3

Authors Note: Apologies for the late update. Again. I've been going through some things.

It Wasn't Me, It Was the Voice

Chapter 3

Getting settled into 'normal' life was much more difficult than Naruto originally thought it would be. He wasn't scheduled to even think about school for another two months given the fact that it was summer, but that wasn't even the beginning of his problems. He had new found freedom, well under the strict supervision of Asuma and Kurenai, so it was more like experienced-guards-monitoring-everything-you-do kind of freedom. But he had no idea what to do with all this time on his hands. Although Kyuubi had plenty of ideas and had a nonstop commentary going from the second he was escorted to Jiraiya's home, Naruto figured it would be wise to not act on any of them. Yet.

"Boy we're free! Free as the fucking wind! Do something! Move!" Was all he kept saying over and over and over again until the sheer size of Jiraiya's house overwhelmed him for a few blissful seconds.

"Whoa…this…this is a house?" Naruto mumbled in astonishment.

His guardian Jiraiya nodded and stood a few feet away from him staring up at the double staircase in the middle of the foyer. "Yes. And it's your home too Naruto."

"What?" Naruto stared up at Jiraiya in shock.

"Ours! Ours! Boy this is ours! YES! Move! Walk! I want to see where we now live!" Kyuubi ordered but Naruto wasn't capable of obliging at the moment; he was still trying to remember how to breathe.

"Yes, yes." Jiraiya laughed nervously at his expression. "Come now, I want to show you you're room. It's on the second floor, right opposite the room where Asuma will be staying. Kurenai not to worry you're close as well." He nodded at Kurenai and flashed her and Asuma look filled with meaning before motioning Naruto to go explore his new home.

OOO

While Naruto ventured off to explore the house, Jiraiya pulled both Asuma and Kurenai into the kitchen. Silently he reached into one of the taller cupboards and pulled out a half empty bottle of Whiskey and took a gulp right out of the bottle. Sighing as it burned down the back of his throat he turned to face the two guards staring at him in mild shock. Wordlessly he tilted the bottle in their direction, offering them a drink. Neither accepted.

"There are some things," Jiraiya began, his voice low and strained. "That you need to know. I can't tell you everything right now but later tonight you will come up to my office when Naruto is asleep and I will tell you the entire story." He stared meaningfully down at the bottle of Whiskey.

Asuma and Kurenai exchanged suspicious glances.

"You both need to keep a sharp eye on Naruto. He is capable of more harm than you realize."

At that they both cocked an amused eyebrow, already brushing him off as a doddering, over cautious old man that was ready to cry wolf as soon as possible to get rid of his psychotic godson. It wasn't anything they hadn't seen before.

Seeing their amused looks Jiraiya scowled. "I'm being serious. Naruto is-"

Just then the loud slam of the front door interrupted him. "Hello? Jiraiya?" Kabuto's concerned voice echoed through the house. "The front door was unlocked! Where are you? I need to speak with you!"

"Kitchen!" He shouted back then returned his attention to the two guards in front of him. "You will be taking him out soon. Watch him. Do not let him out of your sight, not for a second. If the slightest thing changes bring him back. Immediately."

Again, the two guards exchanged a glance but nodded just as Kabuto walked in.

"Ah." The doctor nodded politely at the two guards before locking eyes with Jiraiya. "Here you are. We need to speak." His gaze flicked over to Asuma and Kurenai watching with interest. "In private. Perhaps you two should go talk with Naruto. Get to know him. I'm sure he's eager to get to know you two better." He smiled encouragingly.

Kurenai glanced at Asuma before they both looked to Jiraiya for conformation. Wordless he nodded and they silently left the kitchen, leaving the two men to chat in private.

Kabuto and Jiraiya waited a few seconds until they were sure no one was around listening before speaking. "Do you really think this is a good idea?" Jiraiya asked, staring at Kabuto now leaning against the countertop.

The doctor shrugged. "Isn't it better to have tried and failed than to not have tried at all?"

"I don't think that applies to this particular circumstance."

Kabuto merely raised an eyebrow at him. "I fully believe that with the drugs dissolved into his food, a strict schedule, the two guards and routine meetings with me he should be well enough. Within a month we should be able to determine whether he is fit for this lifestyle or if he should be readmitted back into the hospital." He spoke with confidence.

Silence built between the two and then they heard the loud slam of a door somewhere upstairs. Neither moved for a few seconds.

"I think you should probably check that out." Kabuto sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "You have his medication?"

"Yes." Jiraiya nodded, his shoulders dropping slightly. "And the directions on how to use them."

"Where are they? Somewhere he can't reach I hope."

"In my office."

"He's not allowed in there?"

"No. Not even in an emergency."

At his cold tone Kabuto cracked a small smile. "Does he know this?"

"Very soon he will." With that said Jiraiya left the kitchen to see just what exactly his godchild was up to.

OOO

"Listen all we have to do is open that window, tie some sheets together and we're free! Simple!"

"We?" Naruto mumbled. "You mean me."

"Hey, I'm the one giving you the ideas."

"Exactly so keep them to yourself." Naruto began to look through the bookshelves, having not seen a book in years let alone hardcover it was an experience to see the sheer amount lining the shelves. Not to mention being allowed to actually read them.

"I want to see something that's not the inside of a building!" Kyuubi continued on. "Let's go to one of those shop things we've heard about. Or those…what is it? Stripping bars?"

Wisely, Naruto didn't respond. Instead he began to thoroughly inspect his new room. It had a large king sized bed, matching side tables, walk in wardrobe, flat screen television mounted on the wall, a couch for lounging on with a coffee table, a wall to wall bookcase, writing desk, laptop, and some random chairs. Naruto had no idea what half of the things were or what they were used for but he knew from just looking they were all expensive.

"Just think you were missing out on all of this for years." Kyuubi began nonchalantly. "Don't you want to see what else you've been missing?"

Suddenly there was a knock at the door. "Naruto?" It sounded like Jiraiya. "Can I come in?"

"Yeah."

The door opened to reveal Jiraiya who slipped in and shut the door behind him. "Hey." He strolled around the room looking for anything broken, once in a while glancing at Naruto before finally sitting on the couch. "What do you think?"

Naruto frowned and stared at him. "About what?"

"The room. Do you like it?" He gestured around them.

"I'd rather b-"

"Yes, thank you." Naruto nodded and looked around. "It's amazing."

Jiraiya nodded and settled his gaze on Naruto who still stood uncomfortably by the bookcase. "I'm sure you know there are some things we need to talk about."

"Yeah."

"Starting with that voice you hear inside your head."

At that Naruto's eyes widened in excitement. "You believe me that it's just one?!" He whispered, terrified that Kabuto might overhear. Though that was ridiculous since he was several miles away working in the hospital and Naruto was with his legal guardian. Little did he know Kabuto was actually downstairs writing down details on how to secretly administer his medication and how frequently it should be done.

"Yes." He sighed and massaged his forehead with the thumb and forefinger. "Let's not get too into that right now though, there are more pressing things to discuss. Like you keeping that voice of yours to yourself."

"You can keep your orders to yourself, you old bastard." Kyuubi hissed. "But thanks for letting us out. Really appreciate it."

Naruto ignored Kyuubi in favor of sitting down on a chair and giving his Godfather all of his attention.

"People don't like people with problems Naruto. You will learn that soon enough." Jiraiya continued, looking at his Godson with sympathy. "So try and keep your…problem to just those that already know okay?"

Understandingly Naruto nodded. Of course he knew what a social leper he would be if people found out he could head voices, or in this case a demonic voice in his head. There was no need to clarify that one. If Kyuubi didn't already give him that lesson those gossiping guards sure did.

"Good. Now to go over some rules; you can go out as long as you take Asuma and or Kurenai with you." Jiraiya shifted and ran a large calloused hand though his hair. "I took the liberty of hiring a personal chauffeur for you since I won't be able to drive you anywhere." He sighed tiredly; clearly he was in need of a good night's rest, something he hasn't had in years. "That's another thing Naruto. Do not; under any circumstances enter my private office on the third floor. Is that understood? If you need to speak to me and I am up there call. That's the reason telephones were invented. Do not even entertain the thought of sneaking up there."

Wearily Naruto nodded.

"What's on the third floor? What are you hiding old man? A woman? A prostitute? A sacrifice?"

"You will attend any and all scheduled appointments without hassle. And I know you're a young man but try and stay out of trouble okay?" And so Jiraiya went on, laying down the house rules and consequences, what is expected of him and so forth.

All in all it was pretty easy. Do as he was told and stay away from the police. What could go wrong?

OOO

A lot. A lot could go wrong when you have a Demon Fox trapped inside you and wouldn't shut up when it's the first time you're out on your own with only the hospital guards standing in your way on the path to total freedom.

"Boy! Look! What is that shit?! Bacon! It's fucking BACON!"

Scowling Naruto zeroed in on what Kyuubi was excited about and saw a little street cart selling little hotdogs wrapped in bacon. "Holy hell they sell everything here…" Naruto mumbled to himself.

"Get some, get some now! I want to try that bacon!"

"Hey," Naruto turned to see Asuma withdraw a cartridge of cigarettes from his pant pocket. "Can I have that?" He pointed over his shoulder to the vender.

Wearily Asuma sighed and withdrew two cigarettes before shoving the pack back in his pocket. "Still hungry?"

"Asuma just buy the boy what he wants." Kurenai sneered and snatched one cigarette out of his hand. "At least he's asking and not just taking. Honestly the expression on those policemen's faces…they looked so-"

"Cut him a break! How's he supposed to know how things work out here?" Asuma grumbled and withdrew the wad of cash Jiraiya handed them before they left. Soon he was going to set up a credit card for Naruto but he hadn't gotten around to it yet. Instead, he just handed Asuma the wad of cash and asked him to help Naruto out.

So far Naruto's shoplifted at least five times, been almost arrested twice, and baffled at least three-fourths of the people he's met today. The other quarter just found him oddly amusing with his weird questions and childlike awe of everything.

"Go buy the cholesterol-in-a-bag Asuma." Kurenai ordered as she lit up.

"Yes Asuma, buy them NOW!"

Reluctantly Asuma walked over and pulled out the wad of bills. "One bag." He ordered and slipped the bored man the money who quickly tucked it into his pocket then proceeded to fill a white paper bag with three throng-full's of mini, bacon-wrapped hotdogs.

"There you go." He handed the bag to Asuma along with a few napkins.

Wordlessly Asuma handed the bag to Naruto.

"Yes! Eat one! Eat one NOW!"

Curiously Naruto opened the bag and inhaled the smell of still warm hotdogs wrapped in a bacon waistcoat. He stuck one hand into the bag, picked up three then shoved them into his mouth, shrugging at the taste.

"More! More!"

"Naruto is that you?" A soft, gentle voice asked from behind. Immediately his heart started pounding, strangely it only happened around one person. He turned to see none other than Hinata standing there smiling at him wearing a simply lavender summer dress with two bangs in her hand. "Hinata?" Naruto mumbled around his mouthful and struggled to swallow it. Why is it only around Hinata his body decides to act on its own?

The young girl nodded. "Yes, it's me." She looked around and immediately spotted the two guards dressed inconspicuously standing off to the side smoking. "I see you're…here."

Nervously Naruto nodded, unsure of what to say and how to act. Should he eat another mini hotdog or offer her one. What was he to do?

"Holy crap it's our lucky day! It's the childbearing-hips-girl!"

"Hi Hinata." Naruto finally found his voice and smiled; but his lips were too wide, exposing his gums, and his eyebrows drew down making him look like he was about to be killed instead of friendly.

"Hi, are you okay?" She asked worriedly.

"I'm great! Why?"

"Because you look incredibly uncomfortable…wait, is this your first day out?" Hinata glanced down at his hands to see a half full bag of mini hotdogs.

Naruto nodded.

"I see, let me give you a tip; don't eat anything from these stands unless it's absolutely necessary." She discreetly pointed at several. "If you knew how low their health standards are you'd-well let's just say they are low."

"Naruto! Stop staring and say something! Invite her over! DON'T let her get away!"

That only made Naruto even more nervous and he began to sweat, within seconds droplets were running down the side of his face and that back of his sweater became soaking wet. Lack of speech became apparent when he tried to say something and it came out a gurgle, making him seem as though he was choking on air alone.

"Hey," Hinata laid a concerned hand on his forearm. "Are you okay? Oh my-should I get help? Naruto?"

"Boy you're making a fool of us both! How the fuck do you think you'll get to mate with her if you can't even TALK?!"

"Breathe deeply, take deep breaths." Hinata fanned him and glanced at the guards to see them both staring with mild interest but neither made any move to help.

Just then Asuma leaned over to whisper in Kurenai's ear. "Shouldn't we be helping?"

She puffed on her cigarette and assessed the situation. "Nah. Let him get use to people. If being in the real world is what he wants we shouldn't have to constantly save his ass."

A billow of smoke escaped Asuma's open mouth; he took a few seconds to wave the smoke out of his eyes before shrugging. "Yeah, but it's his first day."

"No time like the present."

"Do you want me to take over? You know what, I am-move over!"

Suddenly Naruto made a retching sound like he was attempting to swallow his tongue along with the entire world. He dropped the bag he was clutching to claw at his face and throat. Panicked, Hinata grabbed his arms terrified that he might hurt himself and once again looked to the guards for help. All they did was continue to look on, this time slightly more interested.

Seconds passed but they felt like hours before Naruto stopped clawing at his face and a new eerie calm settled over him. He appraised the situation; the forgotten bag at his feet, Hinata clutching his hands, the two guards watching then laughed nervously.

"Sorry about that." Naruto spoke, though it was really Kyuubi. The real Naruto was temporarily locked away, unconscious and completely oblivious of what he was doing right at this very moment. "Still not use to all of this, being my first day out and all." He offered Hinata an endearing smile.

Relieved, she smiled and nodded. "No, no don't apologize I understand. Is this too much?" She released one of his hands to gesture around the crowded streets. "Maybe you should go home now. I mean you couldn't have picked a worse day to go wandering around the city."

Taking the opportunity Kyuubi slyly slipped his hand into Hinata's and pulled her off to the side, well aware of the two guards still watching them. "What do you mean?"

"It's Saturday." Hinata explained simply and smiled up at him. "You should have waited to come here on Monday, during the week it's a lot calmer. But I understand you're excitement to come out right away…perhaps you should check out the park, at least there the people are somewhat nicer."

He grinned down at her. "People seem awfully nice enough right here."

At that she blushed and looked away. "Naruto-"

"I don't know anyone out here." Kyuubi continued on, not letting her speak. "Aside from them two." He nodded over at the two guards, tossing their cigarettes and debating whether or not to have another. "And they aren't exactly the…friendly type." He sighed and looked down at his feet, knowing very well that he resembled a kicked puppy. "And my Grandpa, he's the one taking care of me now is a busy man and…well…"

Exactly as he planned Hinata gasped and proceeded to try and soothe him by squeezing his arm and hand. "I'll be your friend Naruto. Don't you worry; I can show you around town."

"Really?"

"Yes of course, why don't you give me your number and on Monday we can hang out and I can show you around town?"

OOO

The two guards silently slipped into Jiraiya's private office later that night after making sure Naruto was sound asleep. It was around eleven-fifty when he finally drifted off and they immediately headed up to the third floor where Jiraiya spent most of his time. He sat behind a massive solid oak desk nursing a glass of Brandy.

"Hey, mind if I have a drink?" Asuma asked as he took one of the seats in front of the desk, gaining his attention. He was tired after following Naruto and Hinata around all evening then listening outside his bedroom door to figure out exactly when he was asleep, not to mention he was suffering mild withdraw symptoms. It had been a few hours since his last cigarette and he was craving another, but it would be rude to light up in Jiraiya's personal office.

Jiraiya quickly finished scribbling something on a piece of paper before reaching under the desk and withdrawing two more glasses. "Kurenai can I offer you one?" He asked as he poured a generous amount into Asuma's glass.

Kurenai nodded and took the remaining seat beside Asuma and accepted her glass, taking a deep gulp and smacking her lips as the taste settled on her tongue. If it's one thing she observed about Jiraiya is that he knew alcohol. And he knew it well.

"Well how was his first day?" Jiraiya asked, leaning back in his chair resembling a company president waiting to hear the report of a new business venture.

Asuma stared down at his glass and swirled the beverage, watching the liquor slowly dance up the edge of the wide base. "He's…doing well I have to say." He began slowly. "The only thing I think worth reporting right now is that he met a girl. They seemed to hit it off pretty well and she's coming by tomorrow morning."

At that Jiraiya's eyebrows shot up and he leaned even further back into his chair. "Really?"

"Yes." Kurenai jumped in, crossing her legs and leaning all of her weight onto one elbow resting on the armrest. "I believe her name is Hinata. She seems nice and if I'm right she is the same girl that Naruto met at the hospital."

"Coincidence?"

"Perhaps. She seems harmless and genuine. Not a bad first friend." She rolled her neck, trying to shake of the call of sleep. After the long day she wanted nothing more than to shower and crawl into bed; following Naruto around had been more work than she expected, especially after he met Hinata. It was as though he turned into another person, full of energy and bursting at the seams with unexpected charm.

Jiraiya took a moment to think about the news, is this bad? Is Naruto even a danger to-wait. Of course he's a danger because of that beast inside of him. Should he be worried about this girl? Her safety? He never thought he would have to worry about these things so soon; who knew Naruto was such a charmer?

"If I may," Asuma interrupted. "Naruto seems like a genuinely nice boy and this girl is the same. They won't be going anywhere we wouldn't allow them and Kurenai and I here will always be there. I think for now just concentrate on whatever it is you've been doing and leave Naruto to us. If anything arises you will be the first to know."

"But,"

"It's fine. He's young, he's a boy. We can't stop this forever." Asuma insisted, cutting off Kurenai.

Jiraiya peered at the two guards sitting in front of him over the rim of his glass. The time has come; he needs to tell them the truth so they understand the magnitude of this situation. Besides its best they know right off the bat what's going on rather than finding out later. Quickly he downed the rest of his drink and sat forward, setting the glass down on the table and rolled his shoulders. "I'm sure you two have heard the story of how Naruto came to be residing in the hospital permanently."

The unexpected change in topic immediately caught their attention and Asuma and Kurenai exchanged a suspicious look. "Yes." Kurenai answered carefully. "Everyone knows the story."

"Please, tell me the version you all know." Jiraiya poured himself another drink but didn't pick it up, instead he stared at them waiting patiently.

"Okay." Kurenai shifted and cleared her throat and took a deep breath. "We understand that both his parents were murdered one night and he was found at the scene covered in blood, unconscious with lacerations on his body. He was taken to the hospital and it was discovered he was, rather is schizophrenic so he was brought to us and since then he's been under our care. He's violent, talks to himself and refuses to take medication. He also strongly believes he isn't mentally ill and for the first few years kept talking about a demon in his head." She resisted the urge to rub at her eyes and stifled a yawn.

At the end of her tale he nodded and sipped at his drink, closing his eyes. After a few sips he set the glass down and exhaled loudly. "Yes…yes." He nodded tiredly. "You two need to know the full story of what happened that night."

"There's more?" Asuma asked, surprised. "How can there be more? Isn't it dramatic enough? I mean the damn police were ready to charge the kid!"

Ignoring Asuma, Jiraiya cleared his throat and began. "There was significant evidence to charge Naruto with matricide and patricide." He began, watching as both Kurenai and Asuma's eyes opened wide in shock. "Privately, unknown to anyone his parents had him seeing a child psychologist and there were documents found that stated Naruto had been exhibiting violent…tendencies. He also had a penchant of stealing things. Concerning things."

It took a few seconds for Asuma to find his voice but when he did it came out shaky. "Concerning?"

"Many times his parents found knives under his bed."

"Knives?"

"Kitchen knives, dinner knives, switchblades. They had hoped it was just a morbid fascination since he also stole simple things, shiny things. Like keys and rings."

Kurenai narrowed her eyes at the man in front of her casually drinking. "And how do we know you are telling the truth Jiraiya? It's well known you aren't overly fond of Naruto."

He met her gaze calmly. "Several were found at the scene. Covered in blood. His parent's blood." Slowly he stood up and moved to one of the cabinets near his desk. Quickly he pulled out a slim ring of keys, unlocked a section, pulled a fairly large box out and returned to his desk. "In here I have all of the incriminating evidence the police found while searching their house that night. As well as some of what I found myself."

Slowly he opened the box and withdrew a stack of papers and placed them on the desk. "These are the physiatrists notes." He then withdrew a clear zip locked bag filled with several knives, covered in dried blood. "The knives." Then he swallowed and pulled out an old folder worn with age. "In here are the pictures he drew…they are of his parents but they aren't…happy."

"What do you mean?"

"He drew them…separate. Cut out from his life. Like he…resented them."

No one said anything for a few seconds until Kurenai cleared her throat. "May I see them?"

Silently Jiraiya handed over the tattered folder and watched as she handled it with care. Gingerly she opened it and stifled a gasp when she saw the first picture; it was one of Naruto standing outside with a house dividing him and his parents. It was raining blood.

"Yes. They become increasingly disturbing."

"Why wasn't he…I mean if they are…the evidence shows, proves that-why wasn't he put into formal care as soon as this was discovered?" Kurenai tried to hide the panic in her voice but failed. It made no sense, there was indisputable proof that Naruto Uzumaki was unstable and that his parents knew about it and he should have been put into professional care from the moment they knew. But that didn't happen, but rightfully he should be convicted! He obviously killed both his parents! That picture alone proves just how unstable he is; drawing pictures of raining blood?

Jiraiya glanced over at her before returning to the box. "Could you send your only child away? Could you believe that you gave birth to him? That you created a monster?"

Kurenai blanched at the thought.

"No." Asuma downed his drink and stood up. "But…how can they not see it? Do you-you believe that he did it? That Naruto, at age five killed his parents?"

"Evidence-"

"Forget evidence." Asuma cut him off and strolled over to the window to look outside. The moon was high in the sky, peaking out behind some clouds. "I don't believe a damn child could do that." Slowly he turned to face Jiraiya, the moonlight to his back, shadowing this features. "Do you?"

No one said anything for a few seconds until Kurenai cleared her throat. "So you think Naruto did it? That he really killed both his parents?" She directed her question at Jiraiya who was still rooted to his spot near the desk, one hand resting on the box.

Jiraiya stared at both of them, his gaze unwavering as he sized them up. Would they see and understand his side of the story? Can he truly tell them the entire situation? So far they were struggling, can they handle the questionable? Not even Iruka and Kakashi believe him, why would they? They already thought he hated his own Godson and just wanted him gone; would they be able to look beyond the medical and see what he did? And what about his most recent discovery? Can he trust them?

Calmly he took a deep breath and slowly released it. "No. I don't." He closed his eyes. "I don't think Naruto would ever do such a thing." No. Not yet. He needed to know them better before disclosing more.

OOO

Early the next morning Naruto finally woke up and kicked Kyuubi back to his rightful place; in his head and not in control of his body. Head pounding, he sat up and began to take in his surroundings. Thankfully he was at his new home and not back at the hospital like he feared. He wasn't strapped down or even hooked up to medication; in fact aside from the headache he was perfectly fine. Surprised, he looked around his dark room and immediately his eyes sought out the glowing clock that read two-fifty-three AM.

"See? You should learn to trust me more. Got you back home safe, no damages or harm to anyone and even got you a date for Monday." Kyuubi began, his voice filled with ego. "I was so nice. I even let you sleep when we got home instead of waking you like I wanted."

"Shhh…my head's killing me." Naruto grumbled, trying to claw his way out of the enormous bed that seemed bent on trapping him beneath the mounds of blankets and pillows.

"There are some painkillers on the bedside along with a bottle of water. See boy? I even thought of that to comfort you when you woke up."

Blindly Naruto groped for the items and downed two tablets and half the bottle of water. "Why'd you do that?"

"Because I'm thoughtful and nice. No matter how evil you think me to be. Not that you're wrong, I am evil. But I am nice too. Depends on how I feel. You should know this by now kid, we've been together for ten years." Kyuubi sighed. "Don't tell me yo-"

"Shhh! My head, please." Naruto slumped back down in the pillows. "What time did you get home?"

"We got back around eight. Perfectly reasonable. We had dinner with Jiraiya, then some dessert, watched some television-there's this amazing show called Merlin, you have to see it, it's about this-"

"Wait, date? What date? What the hell did you do?!"

Kyuubi sighed. "You are slow. Yes, I got you a date with Hinata. She has your number and will be calling today...or tomorrow. You're welcome."

OOO

Naruto woke again later that morning after drifting back off to sleep to Kyuubi's monologue. He showered then dressed in plaid cargo shorts and a simple white V-neck then went downstairs in search of food and people. In the spacious living room he found Jiraiya and surprisingly, Iruka. They were seated in front of the open sliding doors drinking and munching on chips.

"Morning. About time you woke up." Jiraiya greeted over his shoulder having heard the heavy clomp of his footsteps. "You remember Iruka don't you?"

"Of course." Naruto grinned and walked over to them. "Hi, it's uh…nice to see you." He greeted awkwardly. It's been several months since he last saw Iruka, and the last time he ended up getting a lecture about mouthing off to one of the guards even though it was simply banter and nothing more.

"You stupid bastard. I could eat you for a snack right now! Come on, tackle him!"

Inwardly Naruto tried to shut up Kyuubi but he knew it was pointless and he couldn't tell him to be quiet because then he'd be talking to himself. The only thing Naruto could do was bear with it and hope Kyuubi got bored. Which was unlikely.

Happily Iruka stood up and pulled him into a hug. "How are you Naruto? It must be tough, all these new things." He pulled back and gestured around the grand living room.

"No really? Shit we haven't noticed! Damn you should be a psychologist or a life coach! Hurry and quit your day job! You've found your true calling!"

Awkwardly Naruto shuffled his feet and shoved his hands into his pant pockets. "Yeah, it's been weird but I like it."

Jiraiya smiled and nodded, sensing how uncomfortable Naruto was. "That's good to hear. Listen there should be some food in the kitchen in the oven. Set aside breakfast for you, why don't you go eat?"

"Thanks." And then he ducked off to the kitchens, leaving the two men to talk.

OOO

"He seems to be doing well." Iruka stated, pouring himself a generous Rum and Coke before settling back into his seat. Idly he picked at the plate, dunking one chip into the salsa dish before popping it into his mouth.

Jiraiya eyed him over the rim of his glass. "Seems so yes."

"You don't think he is?"

"I haven't had time to sit down and get to know him yet."

At that Iruka raised an eyebrow. "Because of research?"

"What else?"

"How is all that research coming?" Iruka glanced at him before looking outside.

"Not that well. I'm still at the same spot I was when you last asked Iruka." He snorted.

"Don't get mad at me, I said to just leave him locked up in that place and leave well enough alone."

"Iruk-"

"No stop Jiraiya." Iruka pointed at him with his glass. "Look at yourself; you look like a fucking old man already. Okay, you are one but you never looked it. This shit is going to kill you." He sighed placed his glass down on the table between them. "I get it, they were-"He paused at the weary look Jiraiya shot him and quickly changed tactics. "We all loved them, and we all still love Naruto. Nothing is going to change that, but do you seriously think you can fix him? No one really knows what happened that night ten years ago Jiraiya. Let it go."

Silence built between the two men as each one lost themselves in their own thoughts of the past and the situation that led to the ultimate obsession of Jiraiya's life. Ever since that day when he watched Naruto taken away to the hospital in the stretcher and his two close friends get zipped away in body bags he never was the same. He spent each waking hour researching, pouring over Minato's notes, flying all over the world trailing after leads that ended up as dead-ends all in the hopes of trying to figure out what was in that box and what was trapped inside Naruto. If only he could figure that out then he could maybe figure out how to remove it from his Godson and they could finally live normal lives; he could watch Naruto grow up, become a man and maybe even watch him fall in love and have kids of his own.

But what he recently discovered threw almost all his hopes in the rubbish bin. That one conversation on the telephone was enough to turn his entire world upside down.

"Jiraiya?" Iruka asked, sensing something changed. "What is it?"

Jiraiya glanced at his old friend and shook his head. "Nothing. It's nothing."

OOO

In the kitchen Kurenai sat at one of the counter stools. She had just finished a cigarette and had moved on to sipping at a cup of coffee while reading one of the books she found in her room. She looked up when the swinging door opened and Naruto stepped in, looking around.

"Good morning." She greeted absently, but eyed him over the edge of her book. This teenager at the age of five killed his parents. Unbelievable. How can he be so unbalanced? He looks so normal. Awkward, but normal.

"Oh…hello." He sent her a weary smile and stopped short, panic flooding his system at the sight of her. Did she suspect something was off yesterday? Would she say anything?

"Keep standing there like a fucking guilty moron and she will."

"Breakfasts in the microwave." She waved her hand vaguely in the direction of the microwave. Naruto started to where she gestured but didn't move. Kurenai sighed. "Over there over the stove. Orange juice is in the refrigerator. Help yourself." She watched him for a few seconds before shaking her head; she couldn't believe it. She'd have to keep an even closer eye on him.

Nervously Naruto did as she said. He fetched his breakfast, poured a glass of orange juice then took a seat at the kitchen table. Though he needn't be worried because she had already dismissed him and returned to reading the book.

So they sat in amicable silence, Kurenai at the counter reading and Naruto at the table eating. Suddenly a mildly annoying sound pierced the quiet air, disrupting Kurenai and gaining her attention. Confused Naruto looked around for the source only to discover it was coming from his pocket. Still not sure what to do he patted his pant pocket then pulled out the cell phone.

"Answer it! It's Hinata! Answer it now!"

Baffled and now nervous Naruto continued to stare at the ringing phone in his hand as though it was a cute yet mutating puppy.

"Naruto answer the phone or ignore the call." Kurenai ordered, peering at him over the edge of her book and held up her coffee mug, gesturing at him.

"ANSWER THE PHONE!"

Naruto jumped at Kyuubi's tone and quickly answered. "H-hello?"

"Hi, Naruto? Is that you?"

"Yes…Hinata?" He asked confused.

"Yeah, it's me sorry I must sound different on the phone."

Nervously he scratched the back of his head and stood up and began to pace the length of the rather large kitchen. "No, no. You sound…okay yeah you sound a little different."

At that she laughed which brought a huge smile to his face that she couldn't see. "You get used to it. Anyway I was calling to see if we're still on for tomorrow."

"Tomorrow?" He paused his pacing.

"Yes! Say YES!"

He cleared his throat and walked over to the large pane of windows overlooking the back yard. "Yes, sure, if you are that is."

"Great! So I'll pick you up around nine?"

"Pick me up? I-"

"I mean if that's okay. Don't worry I'm a safe driver." She quickly reassured him. "But if you-I mean I know things will be different with…why don't we figure that out tomorrow at your place?"

"Sure you uh, have the ah…"

"Address?" She finished for him. "Yeah, you texted it to me last night remember?" She laughed again, the sound bringing a faint blush to his face as he continued to stare outside watching two squirrels run up a tree. "Then again we were texting a lot so it's understandable if you don't remember. OH! Sorry, I've got to go. See you tomorrow."

"Okay, yeah bye." Naruto barley responded before she hung up; stiffly he turned and returned to the table to finish eating with Kyuubi narrating in his head.

"Well? Don't I get thanks? She called and is coming over tomorrow you lucky dog. See what happens when I take over? Good things. Good things involving women with child bearing hips!"

Things were quiet for a few seconds after he hung up, but then Kurenai glanced over her shoulder at him sitting at the table with one eyebrow raised. "Already made a friend I see."

His face heated up but he nodded. "Yeah." He then shoveled a forkful of eggs and bacon into his mouth.

"Is it that girl from yesterday?"

Naruto nodded.

"Of course it's her you foolish woman! Who else did you see me talking to?"

"She seems nice."

"She is."

"Are you two going to hang out again?"

Naruto chanced a glance over at her to see her looking at him over the rim of her coffee mug. "Maybe…"

Just then Asuma burst into the kitchen whistling. "Why hello!" He greeted loudly and swung open the refrigerator, looking for something to eat. "I didn't think you'd wake up today." He winked at Naruto. "Slept like a log, didn't you?"

"Leave the boy alone Asuma. And either get something or close the door. You're letting the cold out."

Asuma glared at Kurenai over his shoulder. "Nag, nag, nag that's all you ever do." He muttered darkly. "Can't you see I'm trying to find something to eat?"

"Nag?"

"Yes! Nag, that's all you do."

"I don't nag! If you weren't such an imbecile I wouldn't have to tell you what to do!"

"Then don't! Just leave me be!"

Naruto took the chance to sneak out of the kitchen and back up to his bedroom leaving the two guards to argue amongst themselves in private.

"We're going to miss a good fight you know."

OOO

To occupy himself and try and stay out of trouble Naruto decided to watch some mind numbing television since he was never allowed to back at the hospital. Idly he flipped onto the leather couch in the television room and turned on the television the way he saw Asuma do it. Instantly it blared to life flashing pictures across its enormous screen.

For once Kyuubi had nothing to say.

"Holy crap…this is crazy…" Naruto mumbled to himself and began to channel surf, flicking through news channels, soaps, cartoons, dramas, reality and home improvement before settling on Top Gear; a pure white Lamborghini having caught his interest.

"What the hell is that?"

"No idea, some sort of car but damn is it awesome."

"I want one."

"So do I."

There Naruto sat in complete and utter silence. Both he and Kyuubi absorbed in watching Top Gear, envious of the three middle aged men driving down the tracks in the words most gorgeous cars and laughing. For hours they watched the marathon, neither moving nor thinking of getting up to use the bathroom. And that was exactly how Jiraiya found him four hours later.

"Naruto?" He called, walking into the room one eyebrow raised.

Naruto didn't respond.

"Hey Naruto?"

Nothing.

His gaze flicked from the motionless blonde sitting on the couch to the television and back again. Sighing he reached over the back of the couch, grabbed the remote and shut off the television right in the middle of Hammond destroying a particularly horrid caravan.

"What the?!" Naruto spun around to see Jiraiya staring down at him.

"Fuck you old man! I was watching that! Turn it back on before we miss-damn we already missed it…damn you old man. Couldn't wait ten more minutes could you?"

All the color drained out of his face at the sight of Jiraiya standing over him a displeased look on his aged face. "Oh…uh hi."

"Yes, hello. Is this what you've spent your day doing? Watching Top Gear?"

Nervously Naruto scratched the back of his head and glanced at the clock to see three O'clock blinking back at him. "Well…yeah but it's a really good show!" He grinned and stood up. "Have you seen it?"

"Yes. And you are going to be late for your appointment if you don't hurry." Jiraiya heaved a heavy sigh, wondering if this is what raising a teenager will be like and if it'll get any easier.

"Right." Naruto nodded and moved towards the door.

"Because we'd much rather go see that stupid doctor than watch Top Gear…MAN UP BOY! Tell him to fuck off and grab the remote!"

"You'll find Kurenai and Asuma waiting in the car. Hurry up and go, they have everything you'll need."

With that said Naruto ran out the door, down the hall and out the front door into the idling black car waiting for him. Inside he found Asuma puffing on a cigarette and the window rolled down. "Glad you can make it." He grinned cheekily then turned his attention to the driver. "Well what are you waiting for?"

OOO

Kabuto was waiting in his office when they arrived. Naruto walked in to see him seated at his large desk, pouring over several piles of papers with two half empty coffee cups balancing precariously on the edge of one pile and a empty Chinese takeout box buried under several files. He looked up when the door swung open and smiled a cold, tired smile at his patient. "Ah, good. You're here."

"Rather be elsewhere, trust me, but goody-idiot-boy refused to knockout the driver."

"We'll be right outside." Kurenai closed the door leaving Naruto and Kabuto alone in the spacious office.

The office was painted an off white color, giving the illusion that it was even larger, with one wall dedicated solely to holding bookcases. The opposite wall lay home to a patient bed, two potted plants and a chair and in the middle of the room sat Kabuto's desk, chair and two more chairs. Though he spent most of his time in this room, it was devoid of any person items. No framed photos of family, no artwork hung on the walls, not one spec of his life outside the hospital resided in this room.

"Have a seat Naruto." Kabuto gestured to one of the chairs which Naruto promptly fell into.

"Nice. Play the bumbling fool."

"So, how are you feeling?"

"Wonderful, brilliant, fantastic. Can we go now?"

"I'm okay."

"Not feeling stressed?"

Naruto shrugged.

"I feel annoyed with your stupid questions. Does that count?"

"What about the voices?"

"One voice! One! How can you not get it after all these years?! HOW are you still a doctor?"

"No, everything's been good. I mean its weird being…out there…but I think it's going well."

Kabuto nodded and scribbled something down. "Good good. Breathing?"

"Still doing it. Haven't forgotten how to yet."

"Normal."

"No rapid heart beating, shortness of breath, hallucinations?"

"No. Everything's been good."

"Well I'm glad to hear that Naruto."

"Really? Are you?"

Naruto just smiled and flicked his gaze over to the large clock just in time to see it strike four O'clock.

Kabuto followed his gaze with one eyebrow raised. "Have somewhere to be?"

"Anywhere but here doc."

"No! No I-sorry."

"No, you can tell me anything Naruto." Kabuto encouraged.

"Really? Last time he tried to tell you about me you sedated him." Kyuubi muttered dryly.

Silently Naruto agreed but decided to tell Kabuto what was on his mind. "Okay, you see there's this show I was watching."

Mildly confused but more than a little interested Kabuto nodded receptively.

"It's called Top Gear and they drive these cars and…well its fucking awesome."

At that Kabuto smiled knowing full well that Naruto was doing just fine so far in the real world. He shifted in his chair, scribbled something down then smiled again at his patient. "Obviously you are doing well if so soon you've taken an interest in cars."

Naruto shrugged and scratched behind his ear.

"You can go, but remember you can't drive unless you have a license Naruto."

"We'll see about that."

OOO

Please review with your thoughts.

What do you think will happen? Do you like it so far?

All constructive and unconstructive criticism welcome.