Authors Note: As you can probably tell, I enjoyed writing this chapter. My passion for this story was reignited with this chapter so I do hope you enjoy reading it.

Beta: Ancestral Romance

It Wasn't Me, It was the Voice

Chapter 10

"Hello, you persistent friend." A smooth voice greeted. "You must be Mr. Kakashi, friend of Mr. Jiraiya."

A tinge of fear dripped down Kakashi's spine. "Who are you? Where-"

"Don't worry, he's fine. He's just in shock. Because of information- not physical damage." There was the sound of someone walking before he spoke again. "But I can take a message."

"Put him on."

"Hmm...I'd love to but he really is incapable of speech at the moment. I will relay the message though. You can trust me."

Kakashi nearly sighed in exasperation but held it in, instead he massaged his forehead and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Then tell me who you are." Of course this man would be unhelpful and worrying. Why wouldn't he be?

"I'm the man who's finally going to remove the demon from Naruto."

Kakashi bristled, what should he do? Should he trust this man? Should he call the police? After about five seconds of wrestling with himself he heaved a heavy sigh. "Naruto's on holiday with his friends in the woods."

"You can expect him to call you back in about an hour." And then he hung up.

An unpleasant knife twisted in his gut as he stared down at his mobile phone; something wasn't right. He should have never let Jiraiya go in his own, he had no idea how to handle those situations. Kakashi slumped down into a chair, his face buried in his hands. This was bad, for all he knew his old friend was dead and that man was burying the body.

Suddenly, the light sound of footsteps entered the library and paused somewhere near the doorway. "Sir, are you alright?"

He looked up to see none other than Naruto's personal butler, Sebastian standing there. The young man seemed listless without Naruto around to chase around or clean up after. "Sebastian, yes- I'm fine." He lied and rubbed his face. "I'm going to make a phone call."

OOO

"Seems like we have a bit of a problem friend." The stranger stated and turned to face Jiraiya. Again, they were in the hosting section of the house, this time the man was lingering near the bookcases, a glass of what he presumed to be whiskey in his hand.

Jiraiya's face drew back in a sneer as he walked in, having left to use the bathroom. As of late his stomach has been giving him a frightening amount of trouble. He wasn't sure it was stress, the food, or something else entirely. "I'm not your friend." He corrected, glaring at the stranger as he walked past the two men guarding and stopped behind an armchair.

"Oh, don't be cruel." The stranger cooed. "Seems like our darling vessel is off in the woods playing woodsman." He shook his head and tossed Jiraiya's mobile phone back to him. "We better go collect him. And pull yourself together Mr. Jiraiya. Yes, Naruto may be mentally scarred for life but we better get that demon out of him."

At that he staggered back. "It could fucking kill him! Have you no mercy?"

The stranger stared at him, his gaze un fathomable. "If I don't remove the demon, he will die."

"And if you do he will-"

"If I won't he will!"

"This isn't a decision for you to make."

The man stared at him, a coy smile working at the corner of his lips. "You're completely right. This is a decision for Naruto alone to make." His eyes glittered as he looked at his two cohorts. "Gentleman, pack our bags. We are going to America."

OOO

When Naruto woke the next morning, it was actually Kyuubi waking up. He stretched luxuriously beneath the sheets, enjoying the feeling of having limbs and the sensation of using them. Too long he's been trapped in Naruto, too long he's watched from the boy's eyes able to see but never touch. He chuckled to himself, content to know that he was in control, and it would last. Not forever, he wasn't strong enough to lull Naruto back that long yet, but he would be able to hold it for at least two days.

He didn't know why or how, but something happened yesterday that gave him strength.

Something that weakened Naruto, but fed him.

Kyuubi grinned, the feeling of skin stretching over his teeth made his stomach bubble with glee; until he heard Kiba groaning on the other bed. Slowly he pushed himself up, another smile creeping onto his face as he felt the muscles on his arms tense and flex. How he missed this feeling!

"I don't know how the fuck you are up and so damn chipper, but if you start dancing and singing I swear I will fucking stab you." Kiba mumbled, his voice thick with sleep and pain.

"You have a hangover." Kyuubi stated, and though his voice was Naruto's the malicious glee he felt laced every word.

Kiba rolled over to squint at him. "Yes. So kindly fuck off."

Kyuubi smiled, and although it was Naruto's face something seemed off about it. Kiba frowned and rubbed his eyes, staring and squinting at his friend. He would have sworn Naruto, for a split second looked...odd.

"Well," Kyuubi stood and stretched. "I'm going to go shower and leave you to wallow in your own pain."

After the hot soothing shower where Kyuubi relished in the feel of his muscles relaxing, he dressed in jeans, a sweater, boots and his coat the walked out into the decking where he met Sasuke.

"Morning." He greeted, drinking a steaming cup of coffee.

"Morning." Kyuubi nodded back.

"I'm surprised to see you up so early. Given how much you drank last night." Sasuke smirked and pulled his jacket tighter around him to block out the gust of wind.

Kyuubi chuckled, the sound deliciously dark in the early morning sunlight and shadows of the forest. "Yeah, guess I've got a better handle on my liquor than last time."

Sasuke nodded and looked over the wooden banister to the greenery below. "So, planning on going exploring again?"

"I didn't think anyone was up so I was just going to walk around."

"You got lost yesterday."

"Doesn't mean I'll get lost today."

Sasuke glanced at him over his shoulder and shrugged. "Do what you want. But if you do get lost, turn around." He pointed over his shoulder with his thumb. "See that mansion up there? The one with the wrought iron gates?"

Kyuubi turned and gawked at the mansion in question. It was a hulking mass of towers, columns, glass and beauty. They didn't make mansions like this anymore, it must have cost a fortune alone to construct, let alone maintain. Greedily, his eyes roved over the towers stretching up to the sky, the glass panes of windows that yawned in the morning sun, and the iron fences; so intricate and pointy it made him smile with

"If you get lost, go to that mansion; you can see it from anywhere. My brother Itachi lives there. Go there and tell him your name and that you're my guest." He sipped his coffee. "He'll help you."

After acknowledging the information and bidding him goodbye, Kyuubi left to seek out his two guards just to get the mandatory meeting out of the way. He strolled down the road and nearly laughed when he saw the SUV parked in the exact same spot as yesterday. He nearly wept in glee at the sight, but controlled himself and pasted a lazy scowl on his face; something he knew all too well Naruto would do. As he approached, Asuma climbed out of the vehicle with two plastic cups in his hands.

"Morning!" He called and met him halfway. "Sleep alright?" He asked and handed him a plastic cup filled with orange juice.

Kyuubi accepted the drink and took a sip. "Yeah. Like a log." He glanced up at the guard to see him rubbing the back of his neck. "Looks like you didn't though."

At that Asuma chuckled and shrugged. "You try sharing a cabin with Kurenai, then tell me how you like it."

"Rather not, thanks."

Asuma laughed a full, belly shaking laugh and clapped him on the shoulder. "Wise decision! So, everything going good?"

After months of watching and thinking Kyuubi knew exactly what Asuma was really asking. He was searching for any signs of him breaking down, anything that would lead him to believe he was a danger to everyone. If he just shrugged him off that wouldn't do, it would arouse suspicion. However, if he said he was perfectly fine and was drinking last night with the guys that would lead to trouble as well. He needed to give enough information that would both calm and them and keep them on their toes. "Everything's alright."

Asuma raised an eyebrow.

"I mean," Kyuubi put on his best disheartened face and even toed at the ground for a good measure. "It's not exactly how I thought it'd be. The cabin is drafty, the signal here is dodgy and Kiba snores." He sighed. "But still...it's exciting. I mean the woods and sounds-the smells!"

Asuma remained silent for all of three seconds before he burst out laughing, spilling his juice on the ground in the process. "Oh God!" He gasped for air, eyes tearing up. "Sweet merciful God, this is-," Another round of chuckles bubbled up from him.

And that was when Kyuubi knew he won.

They didn't want to hear he was fine.

They didn't want to hear he was scared.

They wanted to hear that he was perfectly in the middle. The perfect amount of excitement and disappointment all rolled into one.

After Asuma calmed himself enough to talk, he grinned and nodded at Kyuubi. "Well good! Good, life is never what we think it's going to be, Naruto. Remember that." He looked over his shoulder at Kurenai sitting bundled up in the passenger seat. "Well, that's all. Remember this evening okay?"

Of course he'd remember; there was no way he was going to do anything that would arouse any suspicion from them. He knew that within less than ten minutes they would have him hog tied in the back of the SUV barreling down the road back to the hospital calling in everyone they could think of. Kyuubi wasn't about to risk his freedom so soon.

After watching Naruto walk back up to the cabin, Asuma climbed into the driver's side and started the engine to let it warm up.

Beside him Kurenai shifted. "You made sure to put the medicine in right?"

"Don't you think you should have asked that before?" He asked quietly, buckling his seatbelt and rubbing his hands together in a sad attempt at warmth.

She wasn't amused. "Asuma."

"Yes, yes. I put it in the damn juice. Happy? Can we go now or do you want to-"

"Just drive you idiot. I'm cold and hungry."

"What do you take me for?" He mumbled sourly, but on the inside he was bouncing off the walls with delight. He didn't put the medicine in; in fact he tossed it down the kitchen drain and just spent ten minutes having a pleasant chat with a perfectly calm, normal Naruto. He would have to make sure and give him his afternoon dosage though, if only to stop him from suffering withdraw.

OOO

Kyuubi strolled back to the cabin, a jaunty whistle on his lips as he skipped up the steps, pausing to feel the warm sun on his face. Today was going to be a good day; he could just feel it in his bones. Naruto was unconscious, he was in control, Asuma and Kurenai was off his back; whatever happened now was just marvelous.

"Just in time for breakfast." Hinata greeted as soon as he walked through the door. There she stood, one hand holding her mobile phone the other a fish cloth. She wore simple black baggy sweat pants and a fitted sweatshirt, it was casual, but set Kyuubi's heart a flutter. "I was about to call you." She smiled warmly at him.

Smoothly, he shucked off his jacket and hung it up on the coat rack. "Glad I made it back in time." He smiled charmingly at her before looking around at the empty room. In the silence between them he heard low murmuring somewhere else in the cabin, most likely from the kitchen. "Where is everyone?"

"In the kitchen waiting for you." She answered smoothly back, and then turned around to lead him into the kitchen, which also doubled as the dining room.

True to her word, the second he walked in everyone greeted him then dug in; half of the eggs were gone before he even sat down. He ended up sitting between Shikamaru and Sakura who greeted him with smiles then resumed eating. For once he was in complete control of Naruto's diet, every whim was his, and so he jumped in with glee. He piled his plate high with sausages, eggs, potatoes, bread and jam then dug in; his mouth bursting with the rich flavor. The hot sausage burst between his teeth, the juices exploding in his mouth and he nearly moaned in happiness.

This must be what heaven feels like.

Eagerly, he spread a thick layer of jam over toast and bit into it; the sweetness and tartness making his mouth water. Within seconds he devoured it and moved onto spooning potatoes into his mouth, barely stopping to chew.

"Damn, that morning walk of yours fucking starved you didn't it." Sasuke stated blandly, one eyebrow rose as he chewed thoughtfully on a buttered slice of toast, as he stared at Naruto seated across from him.

"Leave him alone." Ino poured him a glass of orange juice and placed it besides his plate before doing the same for Naruto and Hinata. "Let him eat, it's nice to know all that time slaving in the kitchen was worth it." She patted Kyuubi's shoulder and kissed the top of his head. "You guys better eat up though, and hurry off before the-"

"The lake will still have fish, even if we leave at eleven tonight, Ino." Kiba drawled, massaging his temples. "Goddamn this headache."

Beside him Sakura snorted. "Well, who told you to drink?"

"Don't go there." Sasuke stated, buttering another slice of toast. "Don't get him started."

OOO

Kakashi was more than a little surprised when he checked his messages to see Jiraiya's name blinking on the screen. Curious, he tapped the button to listen to the message.

"Hey Kakashi, got your message. Right, remember the reason I went to Egypt in the first place? Well it's a good thing I went, got some information. Helpful information actually and -long story short we'll be on the next flight so...expect us home...what maybe...by tomorrow morning? Before lunch? Yeah, that sounds about right."

When the message beeped to signal the end, Kakashi sunk down in the nearest chair. His friend sounded ill and stressed, to the point that he wondered if Jiraiya was able to make reasonable decisions. No wonder he delegated Naruto's entire well being to him. And what was this 'us' he kept talking about?

There were more questions than answers; and for the first time since he left, Kakashi was glad Naruto wasn't around. If this was the same man that coerced Jiraiya into going, it was best that he was far, far away when he arrived.

Suddenly a thought occurred to him and he dashed out the door, nearly taking Sebastian's shoulder with him as he went. "Sorry!" He yelped, helping the frightened butler up and hastily patting him down, not thinking as he went. "Sorry, just thought of something!" Kakashi continued to beat at Sebastian's shoulders until the poor butler regained his senses and backed away.

"Sir!"

That spurred Kakashi into action; he immediately turned on his heel, buttoning his suit jacket as he went. "I'm going out for a bit! You're in charge!" He shouted, his gait turning into a jog.

He was going to get his gun. If this man was coming, he was going to be prepared for every probability. Even if it meant death was involved.

Quickly, he grabbed his black coat out of the closet and threw it on, car keys always in his pocket. Without a word he slipped out the front door and went round to the garage where his car was parked. Immediately he started the engine, tapping his fingers on the wheel as he waited for the engine to warm.

Jiraiya was being threatened. That was the only reasonable explanation for his actions. If it was one thing he could count on, it was the fact that Jiraiya was not a humble man. He was not humble, or cowed or even remotely flappable; he did what he wanted, when he wanted, and he had enough money to make it happen each and every time. So why did he seem so timid on the message? Why did he sound...regretful?

Determined, Kakashi threw his car into drive and barreled down the driveway. It didn't really matter though; whatever was going to happen he was going to be prepared, one way or another.

Kakashi kept his weapons where any sensible person would; at a friend's house. He screeched to a halt in front of Iruka's one story house and climbed out the car, pausing to lock the doors, and then jogged up to the front door. Lucky for him Iruka was out, he pulled out his keys and let himself in. Easily he found his way to Iruka's hall cupboard, threw open the door, rummaged around the top shelf until his fingers found an old suitcase.

It was before the time of zippers and plastic, made of old sturdy hinges that could take true a beating and worn with age and usage. He set it down on the floor and kneeled, fingers working at the rusty metal clasps till they gave way to reveal his stash of weapons. It wasn't much but it contained everything he needed from holsters to cartridges.

He selected his favorite, a semi automatic pistol and shoulder holster, shrugged off his jacket and coat and quickly put it on. Deftly, he popped the cartridges in into the chamber then secured the gun in the holster and stared down at the remainder of his weapons, studying them. After a few seconds, he selected a small knife. It wouldn't really kill anyone; not easily, but it would hinder and he could use it to hold someone hostage. Quickly, he unbuttoned his shirt cuff, slid the knife sheath up his forearm and strapped it on then slid the knife into place.

Now he felt a lot better, prepared for the worst but hoping for the best he packed his suitcase back away in the cupboard, put back on his jacket and coat, locked up Iruka's house, and then went to the bar for a much needed drink.

OOO

Fishing was not as fun as Kyuubi imagined it would be; even with Hinata sitting by his side, her thigh pressed against his and a blanket around them both to keep warm. Well technically the blanket was an old quilt and it was thrown over not just them, but Kiba and half of Shikamaru as well. Sasuke chose to sit in a chair above them all, bundled in a thick jacket and sip some mysterious concoction that reeked of strong alcohol he refused to share.

While Kyuubi was sinking further and further into a foul mood, Kiba was enjoying his position immensely and took every opportunity possible to nudge Hinata at his side or wrap an arm around her shoulders or something, much to Shikamaru's annoyance. Because with every motion Kiba made, he pulled more of the quilt off of Shikamaru.

"This is...bull." Kyuubi muttered darkly, glaring at the water just inches beneath his feet. They all sat with their legs dangly over the dock and their fishing poles bobbing in the water. At least three hours had passed without the barest hint of a catch.

The five of them were sent off to go catch lunch by Ino and Sakura who were busy cooking up a storm back at the cabin; at first Kyuubi was intrigued and excited, especially when Hinata decided to tag along. Now though, hours later, cold, uncomfortable and fishless he was less than thrilled. Plus he wasn't looking forward to the walk back; it was long, tedious and filled with evil tree roots hell bent on tripping him.

"This, is fishing." Shikamaru whispered back, his voice croaking. Clearly he was just as annoyed as Kyuubi. Or at least just as cold.

"When do we give up?" Kyuubi whispered in Hinata's ear, gaining him a shiver.

Hinata turned and smiled up at him, her face inches from his own, her cheeks red from the wind. "We don't. We've got to at least catch one fish."

"With all of you yapping." Sasuke cut off from above. "We're never going to catch a thing."

At that Kiba snorted. "A cold. We'll all catch colds."

Everything lulled into a cold, bitter silence for a few more minutes before Hinata sighed loudly and started wiggling between Kiba and Kyuubi. "That's it!" She shouted, leaping to her feet and taking the quilt with her. "I've had enough! This was a terrible idea!"

Kiba jumped up after her and started stomping his feet, trying to get his blood flowing again followed by Kyuubi, who stretched and swore like a sailor in his head. Outwardly he just scowled. "Who's in favor of going back?" He drawled, rubbing his gloved hands together.

Everyone agreed and in less than five minutes they had everything packed back up and was trekking back to the cabin. The route back seemed twice as long as and even more treacherous than when they were going, and with Sasuke who's been drinking leading the way no one was willing to take the shortcuts he kept pointing out. They all seemed to veer off further into the dark woods with no signs of a path.

That evening, true to Kiba's words, the five of them all lay sprawled out in front of the fireplace wrapped in blankets and sniffling pathetically. They had all caught a terrible cold, much to Ino's annoyance for she and Sakura had to spend the rest of the day babying them; making chicken soup and tea, fetching water and more blankets. It was tedious.

"Honestly Hinata, I expected this from them, but you?" Sakura tutted as she handed the shivering girl a box of tissues.

"Hey!" Kiba scowled around his hot cocoa. "Don't be mean; you two are the ones that wanted fish!"

"Fat load of luck that was." Ino muttered, gently handing Kyuubi a hot cup of cocoa with marshmallows. "Here you go, Naruto." She cooed and pressed her back of her hand against his warm cheek. "You're okay, a bit warm but not burning."

"I thought you said there weren't any marshmallows!" Kiba pouted, staring at Kyuubi's mug. "You lied!"

"Are you really surprised?" Sasuke muttered, squirming closer to the roaring fire. He had mostly vomited up the majority of his mysterious drink halfway back to the cabin. The mixture of cold, alcohol and exercise did not mix too well in his stomach.

"Who's seen my phone?" Kyuubi asked, licking the cocoa off his lips.

Shikamaru, shivering in his nest of blankets and pillows poked his head out to reveal red eyes and a running nose. "Did you leave it at the lake?"

Panic coursed through Kyuubi at the thought, then he realized he didn't take it with him. "I didn't have it with me."

"Here." Ino opened one of the little trinket jars on the tabletop and pulled out his phone. "You left it on the table this morning." She handed him his mobile with a smile.

Immediately he unlocked it and began texting, within seconds he sent it to Sebastian and Kakashi.

Hi, I'm fine. Alive-sick though. Went fishing. Hate fishing. Caught a cold.

"Who are you texting?" Kiba asked curiously. "All of your friends are right here man." He stared at his friend for a few seconds before a slow smile worked its way into his face. "Oh...Sebastian. You're texting your butler."

"Nothing wrong with him texting his butler, Kiba. Shut up." Ino hissed as she spread another blanket over Hinata's shivering form. "He cares, that's all."

Instead of snapping back, Kiba wisely kept his mouth shut. He rolled over, dragged the blanket over his head and fell into a fitful sleep.

Much later that night, Kiba awoke in a puddle of his own sweat. Somehow, during the course of the night, he had managed to wiggle himself even closer to the fire for heat, now he greatly regretted that action. Muttering to himself he disentangled himself from the blankets and sat up, looking around. Everyone else seemed to be asleep, except Hinata, her pile of blankets sat empty near the couch. On unsteady legs he stood up and stumbled his way to the kitchen where he found her, sleepy eyed with her hoodie drawn up over her head.

"Hey." He croaked, fanning himself.

Squeaking she jumped and turned around. "Kiba!" She whispered harshly. "Don't do that!"

"Sorry." He yawned and rubbed his eyes. "It's so hot I needed some water."

"Doesn't mean you can go around giving people heart attacks." She mumbled, pulling down two glasses from the cupboard. From the living room he heard Naruto's voice sleep talking, mumbling something about no more baths.

"Is it just me or does Naruto seem...different?" He whispered watching as Hinata filled two glasses with water.

She turned to face him and handed him a glass. "He seems more confident to me."

"Not...darker?" He gulped down the water, downing half immediately.

She deadpan at him. "Kiba anyone who hangs out with you grows a dark sense of humor."

Over the rim of the glass he eyed her. "Not exactly what I meant."

"Then what did you mean?"

He bit his lip, debating with himself before he shook his head. "Never mind." He turned on his heel and shuffled back to the living room. "Thanks for the water."

OOO

Kurenai threw her still lit cigarette at Asuma and swore. Loudly.

"He didn't come!"

"Give the boy time."

"He knows he supposed to check in-where the hell is he?!"

Worry ebbed at Asuma's mind; Naruto really wasn't one for just ignoring them, especially on something like this something that could immediately land him back in the hospital. He chewed on his lower lip thinking, could it be because of what he did? That he cut back the medication?

Just as Kurenai finished tying her scarf around her neck in preparation for marching right up to the cabin and dragging Naruto back home, her mobile phone beeped. Angrily she pulled it out of her pocket to see a text message from Sebastian blinking.

Apparently Naruto is sick? Is this true?

Annoyed, she worked her jaw and showed the message to Asuma. "That brat. He text's the butler but not us." She hissed darkly as she yanked off the scarf and turned the heat back up in the SUV.

Relief washed over Asuma as he reread the text message and laugher began to bubble up his stomach. "Ah man." He sighed and handed the mobile back to Kurenai. "That kid's going to give me a heart attack."

"No doubt." She muttered and texted Sebastian back.

You know better than us. He didn't show up for his meeting with us. The little shit.

Seconds later he replied.

Oh...he said he went fishing and caught a cold.

Asuma read the message over her shoulder and snickered. "Fishing? In this weather? Who's idea was that?"

Without replying to either Sebastian or Asuma she shoved her mobile back into her pocket and crossed her arms petulantly. "Kids sick. Let's go back to the cabin. I'm cold and hungry."

OOO

The strange man and Jiraiya arrived the following morning with a total of four black cars and one very large, very spacious SUV. They rolled up in front of Jiraiya's house and were greeted by the staff and Kakashi. "Kakashi!" Jiraiya smiled, the first time in what felt like eons. Upon seeing his old friend, all the tense and stress flew out of his body and he smiled as he climbed out of the SUV and up the stairs to greet Kakashi. Immediately he clasped his hand and shook. "You don't know how good it is to see you."

Kakashi had a fairly good idea; he took in Jiraiya's dark circles under his eyes, his stress lines around his mouth, and eyes and the general haggardness of his appearance. "I'm glad that you are here." He mumbled, eyeing the stranger calmly walking up the stairs with two men in tow.

The leanness and general snake-like quality about the man was what set Kakashi on his nerves; it was too worrying and suddenly he was very grateful for the gun pressed against his side and the knife hugging his forearm. The man slithered rather than moved, from the way he removed his hat to the gentle, quiet steps he took. "Hello, you must be Kakashi." He spoke, his voice quiet but commanding.

Kakashi pasted a fake smile on his face and extended his hand to shake. "Yes. I am."

"Good." The stranger smiled and shook his grip equally strong. "We have much to discuss."

Together the three of them walked inside and up to Jiraiya's study, closing the door behind them. Immediately Jiraiya made a beeline for his desk and sank down into his chair, relishing in the familiar feel. Comfortably the stranger took a seat at one of the chairs in front I'd the desk and Kakashi sat in the other.

A few tense moments passed before Kakashi cleared his throat. "I don't believe I was told your name." He addressed the stranger.

The stranger smiled beseechingly at him, a slimy slime on his face, lips curled back to reveal perfect teeth. "I never said."

Not quite sure how to react, Kakashi nodded once. "Right."

"My name is not for your knowledge. You can call me 'Sir' if you like." The stranger smiled, his gaze locking onto Jiraiya.

"I refer to him as 'Stranger'." Jiraiya supplied calmly. "Though I think it's time we get down to business."

"I agree." The Stranger nodded. "The box. Where is it?"

"First, how about filling me in?" Kakashi looked between the two men. "What happened while in Egypt? What's gone wrong?" He propped one elbow up on the armrest and settled his chin into that palm of his hand.

Jiraiya met his gaze. "What makes you think something's wrong?"

"Not once have you asked about Naruto."

The Stranger turned to face him fully, a ghost of a smile on his lips. "Alright. I'll catch you up. Naruto has the Nine Tails Demon living within him. This demon is one of the most dangerous because slowly, methodically he puts his host into a coma and takes over control of their body. Naruto has survived this long because of the...questionable drugs. I am here to remove the demon and seal him back into the box."

Whatever Kakashi was hoping to hear, that wasn't it. He swallowed thickly, suddenly his throat seemed incredibly dry and the room unbelievably cold. "Right." He finally rasped out, voice catching. "I see."

Before he knew it, the same box from all those years ago was sitting innocently on the desk before him, the Stranger's slim long fingers caressing the clasp. He tapped the lid a few times then hummed. "Yes." He grinned. "Now where exactly is Naruto?"

No one said anything.

"Mr. Kakashi?" The Stranger coaxed.

Kakashi cleared his throat uncomfortably and crossed his legs. "On holiday. At his friend's cabin. "

"Do you have the address? "

"Of course." He glanced at Jiraiya to see him staring down at the flooring.

"Then why are we still here?"

OOO

Less than half an hour later the three of them with the Stranger's two ever present henchmen were on the road in the direction of Naruto's holiday. They ignored the speed limit and gunned down the road, covering as much ground as possible overnight. Kakashi wrestled with himself, he wanted to text Naruto, but he also knew that the situation was precarious. There was something serious he wasn't being told, he could sense it in the air.

But information was necessary if he were to protect Naruto. Heart pounding he cleared his throat and tried to make eye contact with Jiraiya seated on the opposite side. "So…what exactly are we going to do when we find Naruto?"

Instead of Jiraiya answering him, the Stranger slowly turned his head, his eyes locking onto Kakashi's like a bloodhound. "That, Mr. Kakashi, is none of your concern."

Swallowing thickly, Kakashi wet his dry lips and faced the man. "Naruto is my concern. What, exactly, are you going to do?"

They stared at one another for a few long seconds, sizing one another up before the Stranger nodded. Calmly he leaned down to his feet and pulled up the bag the box was in, he opened it and balanced the box on his knees. "You see this?" He tapped the lid, his fingers caressing the gems glinting in the moonlight. "This box is powerful." His fingers skated along the edge, tapping out an inconsistent pattern. "This little box with gems and a latch has the potential power to trap the Nine Tails Demon for all eternity...if one knows how to use it correctly." At that his lips pulled back in a twisted smile.

Kakashi's eyes flickered up to his face before he follows the man's finger tracing a pattern between the gems. "And you know how to use it?"

"Of course." He gently placed the box back into the bag and tucked it back between his feet. "I am going to remove the demon from Naruto and put him back in the box where he belongs."

Before Kakashi could ask anything further, Jiraiya let out a strangled whimper before falling silent once again. As much as Kakashi wanted to ask him what was wrong, instinct told him the answer sat right at his side with a strange smile on his face and a magic box between his feet.

They rode in silence after that, and when the sun rose, warming the cold morning air they pulled up in front of the closed gates. Cramped from trying not to touch the Stranger and avoid hitting his head against the glass, Kakashi painfully climbed out of the back seat and tried not to let his age show. He stretched his back, groaning as the cracks echoed.

"This is it?" The Stranger asked, his knees cracking audibly even as he grabbed the bag and shouldered it. He ignored his two henchmen offering a coat in favor of staring at the gate, the driveway and cabin.

"Apparently." Kakashi mumbled, his eyes landing on the many vehicles parked along the driveway.

"Is it or isn't it?" He asked politely enough but with a definite edge to his voice.

Kakashi glanced at him with a frown as he buttoned up his coat and felt the gun holster pull across his shoulder. "Yes. I do believe this is the place. That is Sasuke's truck." He pointed and looked around, taking in his surroundings. The woods were dangerous, especially with their company, seven teenagers and a demon lurking around. There were too many shadows and opportunity for things to go horribly wrong.

Just then Jiraiya stepped up beside him. "Kakashi, I'm sorry to drag you into this."

"Into what exactly Jiraiya? What the fuck is going on? Is Naruto safe? Who the hell is he?" They kept their voices low and the foreign men in their eyesight, though it wouldn't do much good with only Kakashi's weapons between them and probably each one of the foreigners hiding a gun.

"Naruto, the demon, I should have just kept the boy in hospital." He shook his head despondently. "He would have been better off living out the rest of his life in that place."

OOO

Kyuubi woke to the light sound of footsteps. He huffed into the land of the living and forced open his eyes to see a stream of sunlight inches from his face. Groaning he rolled over to see Hinata quietly packing up her blankets.

"Morning." He whispered, rubbing his face.

"Morning, Naruto." She smiled calmly at him as he pushed himself to his feet, his sleepy gaze settling on her.

There she stood in the morning sunlight so beautiful so breathtaking. She stole his breath away.

"You're beautiful." Kyuubi whispered, his low soothing voice seemed otherworldly in the morning.

Hinata's face grew red under his gaze and she reached up to rub her cheeks. "Thank you." She murmured, glancing down at the others still face asleep. Even Ino and Sakura sat curled up on the couch, lost in the land of dreams.

Kyuubi nearly danced in glee; here he was, the opportune moment. Everyone was still asleep, it was the early hours of the morning when everything was bathed in sleepy morning light, and it was just the two of them. Something awoke within him, something he thought he had under control. It was primal, his need for Hinata; it had dulled when he took control of Naruto, overwhelmed with all the sensations of living. But here, now, it pulsed with life. His skin sung with the need to touch her, to hold her.

"Naruto?" She blushed under his heated gaze. "Would you like to take coffee with me outside? I know it's cold but..."

Kyuubi licked his lips and cleared his now dry throat. "I'd love to."

OOO

Like clockwork everyone slipped into the shadows while Kakashi stealthily picked the lock on the gate. One by one they filtered through, the Stranger and his men to the left, Kakashi and Jiraiya to the right. Silently Kakashi withdrew his gun and clicked the safety off; he was not about to let those men hurt Naruto or the others, even if there was a demon involved.

The Stranger crouched low in the bushes and fingered the small box, clutching it to his chest. All he needed to do was find Naruto, sat the incantation and watch as the Nine Tails was forced from the kids body and back into the box. It was easy as pie.

If only he knew where exactly Naruto was.

Suddenly, it was as if the Gods heard him and none other than Naruto Uzumaki walked out onto the decking with a mug in one hand. He held open the door as a young lady followed him out, her face red and long hair loose as she gazed up at him with what could only be explained as infatuation. Together the two of them walked to the banister and stood together, drinking as the sun rose higher and higher.

"This is too good." The Stranger murmured to himself as he slipped out from the safety of the shadows, just as Kakashi darted to the wall of the cabin. Together they slunk under the decking, scowling. "What the hell are you doing?"

Kakashi made sure to keep the hand with the gun behind the folds of his coat as he glanced back at Jiraiya, slowly making his way under the deck. The Strangers two men were nowhere in sight. "What's your plan? What's your fucking plan?!" He whispered harshly.

The Stranger glanced up at the decking above and fingered the gems. "Trap the demon you idiot." He unlatched the lid and began to mumble, chanting the words he read a thousand times to remove the demon and seal it back into the box.

Before he could finish reciting the first line, someone was stomping down the deck stairs. "Naruto! Be careful!" Hinata's voice rung out into the woods just as he darted under the decking and came face to face with the Stranger. Briefly his gaze flickered over Kakashi and Jiraiya, but his attention was focused on the Stranger holding the box.

"Oh no, little human." Kyuubi sneered, ignoring Hinata's cries as she hurried down after him, her boots clicking on the wood. "You couldn't possibly think it would be that easy."

"Naruto what's going on-Oh my God Mr. Kakashi?!" Hinata yelped as she ran under the decking. "Mr. Jiraiya?!"

"Hinata." Jiraiya smiled a watery smile at her and grabbed her shoulder, stopping her before she could reach Naruto. "It's okay."

"Nine Tails Fox Demon." The Stranger grinned and cradled the box closer to his chest. He took a deep breath and resumed chanting the incantation, his eyes locked on Kyuubi.

"Naruto," Kakashi tried to reach for him but within seconds Kyuubi had snatched the concealed gun from his grasp and fired at the stranger.

"I'm not going to let you do that." Kyuubi licked his lips as some of the bullets found new homes in the Stranger's shoulder and hand. Somewhere in the distance he heard a high pitched wail and swearing.

Moving on automatic, Kakashi grabbed Naruto's arm, his hands in a vice grip around the gun. "Naruto!"

"That's not Naruto!" The Stranger hissed, clutching at his shoulder, his bloodied, wounded hands still holding the open box. "That's Kurama...and by the looks of it it's been Kurama for a good while."

OOO

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