What Happened Next
Naruto wondered if the blush was permanent. Twenty-four hours had gone by and his cheeks still felt hot. He got up and went to the bathroom yet again to splash water on his face.
Iruka rolled over so he could watch Naruto. He couldn't help the smile that appeared on his face. It had certainly been an embarrassing scene for both of them but Naruto's reaction had been priceless. He wished there was someone he could laugh about this with but for now he'd have to keep it to himself. Again Iruka swallowed a chuckle as he wondered if Naruto would dare to share that moment with Hinata.
He turned off the light but not before seeing Iruka's smile. "Stop it Dad – it's not funny!" Naruto flopped down onto his bed and turned away from his father's amused gaze.
"Sorry kid but it is. I'm not being mean Naruto but if it had happened to someone else and you'd witnessed it – you'd laugh too." Iruka sat up in his bed; apparently Naruto wouldn't be sleeping anytime soon. "Nobody knows what happened besides us three and I've got enough on Jiraiya to make him keep his mouth shut. And of course I won't tell."
He sighed and rolled over to look at his father. The stars shone down into their room providing a calming influence. "I know but I just don't believe I did that! Hinata's my girl! She's the only one I should be…responding to!" The heat seemed to flow up into his hair and Naruto sat up pulling off his panda cap.
Iruka laughed at Naruto. He did everything in extremes, even being embarrassed. He guessed this was something else he'd have to explain to Naruto. Another sex talk but this time he didn't have Kakashi here to back him up and damned if he'd go get the reason behind Naruto's embarrassment – Jiraiya. They'd kicked him out of the room and he now had his own room far away from theirs.
"Listen," Iruka sat cross-legged in the middle of his bed and his tone took on that of a teacher's thinking maybe that would help Naruto. "You're at that age when your body is changing all over. Your voice has deepened and of course you're taller now." He smiled. "But there's other stuff. You notice girls now and I know you've had…thoughts and probably more about Hinata." Iruka shook his head not wanting to think of that.
Also sitting cross-legged, Naruto bent forward and held his head in his hands unable to look at Iruka. "Daaad."
"Hear me out, I'm not going to ask about that but I'm sure in the middle of the night you've had…dreams about her and reacted…" At Naruto's groan, he knew he was right. "What happened yesterday was the same thing. Men respond to women without even really trying – all men. It's not just you Naruto. We can't help it – it's how we're made." His tone was matter-of-fact.
Naruto peeped up at Iruka. "You…got a...hard-on too?" He got hopeful. What I did was…bad but if Dad was turned on too – then it wasn't just me!
Now Iruka found himself blushing admitting this to Naruto. "I did. How could I help it? The girl was rubbing herself against me!" It was embarrassing but Naruto was laughing and starting to understand that things weren't as bad as he thought.
Naruto shook his head. "Thanks Dad but still you didn't…" He couldn't make himself say it. Like it had just happened Naruto recalled what happened for the hundredth time.
Once his shorts hit the floor, he and everybody else watched his penis slowly but surely rise to greet his belly. After the girls had said wow, Naruto covered himself and tried to retreat to the bathroom but fell instead since his feet were trapped in his boxers.
The girl at his feet squealed in delight and went for the prize. Naruto sat up so quickly it was like he had a spring in his spine. Mouth open in shock he watched her take a two handed grip then had to push on her shoulders as she tried to lower her head! In desperation, he'd grabbed himself with one hand and tried to take back what was Hinata's!
They struggled over it. Three hands on his privates – yup it happened. Naruto's over-stimulated shaft let loose its own little fountain! Jiraiya yelled - banzai! The Sage's lady clapped her hands while Iruka's whispered into his ear that they should do the same. He had to fight to keep her out of his pants. Naruto died of shame and ecstasy and he still couldn't get the girl to let go!
Finally, Iruka taking pity on Naruto and not wanting the same to happen to him used some martial arts. He gently but firmly hit a certain spot on the girl's neck and she went limp. Iruka caught her then looked in shock at Jiraiya who stupidly said that he didn't know Iruka like his women unconscious! Hearing Naruto whine at the girl to let go, he put the recently knocked out girl down on the bed and rushed to Naruto's side and put that girl's lights out. She was out but her grip stayed strong. Iruka held her up (keeping her head out of his crotch!) while Naruto freed himself.
As soon as his was the only hand on his dick, Naruto scooted backwards into the bathroom and locked the door leaving Iruka to deal with the remaining screaming female and a laughing Jiraiya.
"She wouldn't let go! Not even when she was unconscious!" Naruto said disbelievingly. "Sorry for hiding out in the bathroom but I couldn't…" He shook his head.
"You know, Jiraiya is a legendary Sannin but he's also a legendary ass!" Iruka said with conviction. "He just stood there laughing and calling us prudes. Without a word, I put your lady friend in his arms then gave him mine! He juggled them around excitedly at first then got the picture as I shoved them all out of here. That last one was screaming and hollering for the police, I heard doors opening and people asking what was up. I just locked the door and turned off the light." Iruka scratched his head in wonder over what had happened.
Naruto had heard it all. The police had shown up and his father had opened the door as someone else. He'd used the Transformation Jutsu so he wouldn't be recognized then complained about all the commotion. He denied ever knowing Jiraiya and the drunk lecher had been taken to jail for the night. Even when the coast was clear, he'd been reluctant to leave the bathroom. Only when Iruka said he really had to pee did he leave it. "Sorry for…everything." His cheeks went red again.
Iruka just threw a pillow at him. "Get over it Naruto! Or you will in time, someday you'll laugh about it." He promised. "You will!" He ducked as his pillow came sailing back. "Now, let's not start a pillow fight. Lie down and get some sleep, you've still got to help me get a date – someone preferably not a lush!" He was thinking of the girls Jiraiya had brought as gifts for them.
Naruto did as he was told but wondered if he would be up for a female hunt after all this. "What will I tell Hinata?" He finally broached the topic closest to his heart.
"Nothing! Trust me son, that's one secret we can keep from the women in our lives. Hinata – well she'd kill you." They looked at each other in the darkened room.
"Yeah, no doubt about that. Or cut it off. Okay, it'll be our secret. Night." With permission to keep his mouth shut, he felt much better.
"Night Naruto." Iruka closed his eyes and smiled to himself. Unless Hinata was a fool, she'd never cut it off!
Because Naruto had refused to leave the room yesterday, Iruka had had to cancel his date. So he was back on the lookout for a nice woman to have dinner with. The guys had breakfast together and were soon joined by an angry Jiraiya.
"Traitors." He said sullenly. He'd only just gotten out of jail. While he was still drunk he'd bragged so much about all the women he knew that another prisoner tried to shut him up using his fist. Of course Jiraiya took care of the guy easily but fighting in jail earned him an extra day in lockup. "I can't believe you let me be hauled off to jail and for what? Bringing some nice girls over?" He actually sounded affronted.
"Well for Heaven's sake! You know damn well we didn't ask you to bring them to our room! What in the hell would we want with those drunk girls? Naruto's got a girlfriend Jiraiya! I'm not looking for some-some loose woman who would follow you anywhere!" Iruka was in Jiraiya's face speaking as softly as possible but no one mistook his anger.
"Geez try to help a friend out and this is how I get treated." He leaned back away from Iruka and looked to Naruto who was ignoring him. "At least you got something out of it kid. You're not mad at me right? Yeah, you may have a girlfriend but she's not here now is she?" He elbowed Naruto knowingly until he stood up.
"Sorry Dad." He said to Iruka as he stood. "Fuck off old man!" Naruto left them to wait outside.
"That said it all I think. He's your new room key. You're on the first floor somewhere. I'd advise you to ask before coming anywhere near our room in the future." Iruka also stood to leave then stopped. "The ceremony's tomorrow. I plan to let Naruto do whatever he likes. If you can behave then join us, if not…well you should be able to figure that out." Iruka put down some money and left Jiraiya stewing.
Iruka found himself watching Naruto for signs that he was still upset with the incident but after telling Jiraiya off he seemed his normal self. Actually he had a damn good eye for picking out some nice women. He'd point out someone then make some excuse to interact with them then sing Iruka's praises. It was kind of embarrassing at times but only one of them got offended. By the afternoon he was having lunch with one of those women while Naruto grabbed some food at a kid's hangout not too far away.
"Hey you! Yeah you! We need another player in our soccer game – wanna play?" A tall, dark-haired teen asked.
Naruto had to look up and up. "Whoa man! How tall are you?!" He jumped up and found that the other guy was a head taller than him and he was almost as tall as his father meaning this guy was even taller than Iruka!
The guy just laughed. "Too tall as my mother says! I'm Koji. Like I said we need another player, how about it?"
It was on the tip of his tongue to say yes but Naruto could suddenly feel Iruka's eyes on him. Sure enough when he looked around his dad was watching them curiously. "Uh, let me check with my dad. We were supposed to do some stuff this afternoon. Can you wait?" Naruto was a bundle of energy; he took two steps toward Iruka then a step back to Koji. "Wait, okay?" He stuffed the last of his food in his mouth and ran to the café Iruka and his date was at.
Iruka excused himself and met Naruto. A ball of tension formed in his stomach. They looked innocent enough but ninja were sometimes masters of disguise. "What's up Son? Problem?" He took Naruto's shoulder ready to force him away from there.
"No, no – Dad, can I go play soccer? They need an extra player!" He was excited. This was the first time in a long time to do something normal with people his age and absolutely no worries. "Please! Finish your date – I won't be long. Just a quick game! Dad…?" Naruto looked into his eyes and sobered. "Oh yeah, never mind. I'll tell them to find someone else."
He felt awful for making Naruto look so disappointed. His life had been so messed up lately; maybe he was being over protective. Iruka pulled Naruto back when he began to walk off. "Hold on I didn't say you couldn't. What's that tall kid's name?" Naruto told him and he called the boy over. Iruka laughed as he looked up at him. "Good genes in your family."
Koji laughed and nodded. He noticed that this kid and his father looked nothing alike. "The best. So can he play?"
"Yeah Naruto can join you but could you let me know where you'll be playing? We're just visiting here so we don't know this place too well. I'll come by later and maybe cheer you guys on. Okay Naruto?" Iruka looked into his son's eyes hoping he understood.
Naruto blinked his blue eyes in surprise. He's going to let me go?! But…he said he'd come by later. He wants to know where I am and to stay there until he shows up. Okay, as long as I get to play! "Sure thing Dad!" He clapped Iruka on the back then looked over to Iruka's date. "So far so good? Good! See ya in a little while. Let's play some soccer Koji!" Naruto waved to Iruka then hurried to catch up to Koji's long stride.
Koji looked down at Naruto as they walked. He seemed really happy about something. "So that's your dad? But…not your real dad right?" It was always possible to have a dark father and he son come out fair headed but the two had no features in common.Naruto looked up at him then at the other boys. Some were listening curiously and the others were involved in their own conversations. When he thought about it, this was going to be the first time he'd have to explain about him and Iruka. "Nah, he's not my, what is it biological? – dad. I guess you could say he adopted me." It made him smile.
"You guess?" Koji laughed. "So what about your mom?" It looked like his dad was on a date but Naruto didn't call her mom.
Naruto walked along without a care in the world enjoying the day. "Oh she's back home. I think she would have come with us but she's an important lady and had to work. So it's just me and Dad on this trip. I'm trying to get him hooked up, he doesn't date enough. I told him if he didn't get a move on, I'd have kids before he did!" Naruto laughed then after a minute stopped as he was the only one still walking. "What?"
Koji blinked then stepped forward looking down at Naruto in confusion. "Your parents date other people? While they're married to each other?" He looked at his friends – some looked disgusted while others were fascinated.
"Huh? They're not married!" Naruto's face looked at them like they were idiots.
"So your mom's not married to your dad – then how could he have adopted you? Were they married then got divorced?" Koji felt a headache coming on.
"Oh that! No way – they've never been married! Mama T's not my real mom either." Naruto thought that explained it all but he just got more questions. He laughed. "Sorry guys, I've never had to explain this before, everybody back home knows my situation. "I never had parents. Dad was one of my teachers in school but we were always close and well somehow we just started acting like father and son. It's not on paper or nothing but he's my dad now."
"And your mother?" Koji was breathing easier. Funny how some things you wanted to be normal and anything out of the ordinary just freaked you out.
"Mama T?" Affection could be seen on his face and heard in his tone. "I actually only met her about three years ago. She can be scary as hell but very protective of me." Naruto paused. "I never had that before. She makes me eat my vegetables, buys my clothes." He just shrugged when some of them laughed at him. "And she loves me. Mama T sees a lot of her deceased younger brother in me – I think that's what started it but then she started butting in on my love life doing things like a mom would, so now I'm her son and she's my mama." Naruto looked down at the ground and kicked a stone. "Weird, unconventional but it works for all three of us." He didn't need anyone's approval but he still wanted people to see them as a family.
Nobody could miss the pride in his voice. Each of them had families so knowing that this guy had began life without one and now had pieced one together, how could they argue especially when he looked so happy.
"Okay, got it but you mentioned kids and a love life? You married?" Koji was joking but after hearing about his mom and dad, not married and each of them adopting him – anything was possible.
Naruto paused again and he got a kinda surprised look on his face. "No…but I'm starting to really think about it. My girlfriend's name is Hinata – I do believe I'm going to marry her!" He laughed, put his hands in his pockets and started whistling this time not minding when the others were slow to follow.
When they got to the field Koji gave Naruto a test to see if he could play soccer. He had decent enough skills. Then it was time to choose teams.
"You okay to play in those clothes? They look new." Koji asked. They were warming up and stretching.
"Yep. I got others – don't worry." Naruto said. He was a little distracted thinking about Hinata. He couldn't ever remember going to a wedding so it was hard to imagine but he was sure Mama T could help out. Will Lord Hyuga let us get married now or make us wait? We should wait but I want to be with her now and always! Suddenly Naruto tripped over his own feet making Koji laugh.
"So love makes you clumsy?" He shook his head. He'd never been in love but if the look on Naruto's face was love, it was something to look forward to!
Embarrassed, Naruto scratched his head. "Yeah it can. …I needed to get away and Hinata wasn't able to come. Should've realized how much I'd miss her." It had only been a few days, they hadn't even had the…ceremony yet. Naruto felt a fist squeeze his heart. It was tomorrow. They would all receive their official welcome into the rank of Chunin by the whole village. People would clap and cheer for his friends and for Sasuke who attacked him and Kiba who wanted desperately to tear into him. If they'd worked together – they would have killed me easily.
The happiness left Naruto's face to be replaced by a hurt so deep that Koji could swear he could feel it. Whatever had brought him here and made him leave his girlfriend behind must have been damned rough. He'd obviously pried too much into Naruto life. The guy was happy before. "You ready? Let's play some soccer." Koji hoped to bring back the guy's happy face.
Naruto felt the hit on his shoulder and had to force himself not to react. Thinking of his – enemies had put him on edge. He had to remember that not everyone wanted him dead. Naruto shook himself then forced a smile. "So how many points do you want to win by?"
Iruka's date had decided to tag along to the soccer field with him and on the way he met up with the shopkeeper that Naruto had been trying to buy a dress from. The women both regarded the other as competition and both took an arm saying they'd love nothing more than to watch his son play. It was kind of fun being the center of attention, Iruka just hoped they didn't get possessive and turn things ugly.As much as he liked being with the women, there was a knot of worry in his belly. Naruto was alone in a strange place and his life was always in danger from some very powerful people. His son was strong and had the power of the fox but these people were cunning. Naruto could easily fall into a well thought out trap. Without seeming to rush them, Iruka walked his dates quickly to where his son was said to be at. He'd purposely waited an hour before following to show Naruto that he trusted him but he had a need to know that he was safe.
There were bleachers to sit on and Iruka guided his guests to them then went to stand at the fence. Naruto was playing but he was frowning. His game was off. "Take the ball Naruto!" He yelled then searched Naruto's face when he looked his way.
Dad! He came to see if I'm okay. Naruto blinked. He'd been letting those thoughts of home mess with his game. He'll worry if I'm not having fun. Okay, let's win this for Koji and Dad. "Watch this!" He yelled then noticed the two women who joined Iruka at the gate and laughed heartily. His dad was better at getting women than Pervy Sage!
Iruka let out a sigh. He was fine and playing better. The three of them cheered on Naruto and his team. Iruka admired his son's game. He wasn't using any of his ninja skills but because he was in good shape – he out played some of the better athletes on the field.
"Did you teach him how to play? He's really good." Kimi, the lady he'd been having lunch with wondered as she watched Naruto steal the ball then pass it.
"No, I wish I did. Naruto taught himself. He worked and worked until he could play every position." There was pride in his voice but his heart felt sadness. You learned every position hoping someone would ask you to play with them, didn't you son? More than likely he was remembering some of that or thinking about tomorrow when we got here.
"Really?" Mayu asked. "He's a determined young man then. A woman likes a man who works hard. I bet the girls all love him, especially if he's a gentleman like his father." Mayu, the shopkeeper inched closer to Iruka.
That had Iruka laughing. "He's definitely determined but unlike me, Naruto's already found love. A childhood sweetheart. He's young, they both are but they love deeply. In this instance, I think that's something he's going to teach me." He looked from one pretty face to the other then up at Naruto. "Go for it! Put in the net Naruto!"
He'd worked up a good sweat and though he'd never played with Koji and his friends before – they were in sync. The ball was passed to him. Dad and his dates were yelling and screaming his name. A tackle knocked him off his feet but Naruto rolled out of it and got back the ball. Goal. Goal. Going to make a goal! He kicked it high, ran forward and jumped. The ball connected with his head and shot between the goalie's hands! It was good.
"GOOAALLL!!" Naruto's cheering section screamed.
They won by two points. The bleachers had filled up. It was the best pickup game they'd had in a long time. Naruto was invited back as long as he was in town. Having someone new on the team had kicked things up a notch.
"Good game Son!" Iruka caught Naruto in hug and pounded his back.
"Dad, I'm all sweaty!" Naruto pulled back thinking of the women still with Iruka. It felt good though. "You guys had fun?" He asked them.
"Yes, I didn't think I could get involved in a game so much. Guess it helps when you know someone playing. Good job Naruto!" Said Kimi, smiling widely at him.
"You were wonderful!" Mayu hugged him then kissed his cheek. "I work so much I don't get out to games much. This was so much fun!" She pulled him to the side. "I think I got that dress you wanted. You come by the shop tonight or tomorrow and take a look. I had to special order it and if it's not what you want I'll keep looking okay? If you have a picture of Hinata that might help me find the right dress."
Naruto still pumped from the win got even more excited. He dug deep into a pocket. "This is Hinata!" His voice was so loud that the teams gathered around to see the girl Naruto had said he would marry.
"That's her? His girlfriend?"
"You mean his fiancé!"
"The one he's going to marry? Let me see!"
"She looks too good for you Naruto!" Koji joked. He could look over the others' shoulders since he was so tall. The girl had shoulder length hair, light eyes and a nice figure. She appeared sophisticated not like the easy going Naruto. "How'd you catch her?"
Naruto blushed from all the attention. "I didn't, she caught me! Really, ask Dad!" He looked to Iruka who seemed surprised about something. "What?"
"Married? Since when?" Iruka asked quieting the crowd, hands on his hips.
Naruto shrugged still high. "Since today. I love her and I'm going to ask her to marry me when we get home. Don't worry Dad – we'll wait. Maybe we can have a double wedding!" Naruto wiggled his eyebrows then looked from Kimi to Mayu.
When all three adults blushed – the kids fell out laughing. Iruka chased after his son and caught him in a headlock.
"You've got a big mouth! Who said you could get married?" He wasn't angry at all. Iruka was a little surprised that Naruto was moving so fast but his son never did things normally. "I bet Tsuande will have something to say about this!"
Naruto struggled trying to trip Iruka. "Mama T? I'm her baby boy and she loves Hinata – no contest Dad! I'm going get me a wife! How about you?" He broke free knocking the wind from Iruka and they faced each other with big smiles on their faces.
The crowd watched with smiles as father and son wrestled and heckled each other. Obvious was the love. It was just as obvious that they weren't blood but it didn't matter. The two had shown up in their town and life was definitely more interesting with them in it. It ended with Naruto on the ground surrendering to deadly tickle fingers.
Iruka dusted himself off as he straightened. "Still the champ and winner! He tries but I know his weakness." He told the amused crowd. "Sorry ladies." Iruka apologized for deserting them.
Koji gave Naruto a hand up and handed him back the picture of Hinata. "If your dad's any indication – you picked a great mom and wonderful lady to marry. For a pieced together family – you lucked out Naruto."
He couldn't speak from laughing so hard but nodded. All but my brother… "Yep, no one better than my parents or my girl. Man that was fun." Naruto focused on the positive.
"Wanna do it again tomorrow? We might play something else but you can hang out with us anytime Naruto. Dad too." Koji said as they once again joined the group.
"I don't know." Said Naruto.
"Sure – we accept!" Iruka said at the same time. "Tomorrow's a special day for Naruto. I'd already decided to let him plan the day. Anything you want to do Naruto." Iruka caught his blue gaze. "Let's make the day special, okay?"
Naruto took a huge breath to keep from tearing up. "Thanks Dad. So Koji when are you guys free tomorrow?"
Koji suspected it had something to do with the reason, Naruto had to leave home. His dad was going all out to make something up to him. Well it was the least he could do for his new friend. There were lots of fun places all over town and it had been a while since he'd been to some of them. A whole day doing whatever he enjoyed. Koji began to smile.
"Eight too early? Hope you can keep up Dad 'cause we're going to party all day long!" Koji's friends yelled in excitement.
Iruka and Naruto high-tailed it back to their room to shower and change. Mayu suggested they come by her shop today since the next day was dedicated to fun. In fact some of the fun was starting tonight. Koji had invited them to eat with his family – ladies included but only Mayu could make it so after picking up Mayu and getting Hinata's dress they would head over to Koji's and maybe plan some of the next day.
"What about Pervy Sage? Tomorrow I mean, you think he remembers?" Naruto was still mad at the old fart but for tomorrow he wanted both of them around – his little touch of home to celebrate with him.
"I'll leave a note in his room or something. I won't let him miss tomorrow Naruto." Iruka completely understood. "You know, I'm surprised you haven't come up with a way to get back at him." Iruka said as he shaved.
Naruto had pulled out his present from Kakashi-sensei and put them on. "Oh don't worry. I'm not going let him get away with it. I was plotting something before Koji showed up." Naruto grinned evilly. "I want to embarrass him like he did me but I wonder if it will work since he's such a pervert anyway." He got off the bed and imagined hitting Jiraiya while wearing his new gloves.
"Just warn me if I need to come up with some bail money for the two of you!" He joked but knew he should check his cash to be on the safe side. Letting go of Jiraiya's impending doom, his thoughts retuned to Naruto.
Iruka wiped his face and looked in the mirror where he could see his son. Today had been pretty damn good and tomorrow was looking like it would be just as good. As usual, without even really trying – Naruto had made friends. As a father, it angered him that Naruto was going to miss a ceremony that was supposed to celebrate him and his accomplishments. He was supposed to be there watching as Naruto accepted the scroll from his mother. She'd have been so proud of him; he could just imagine the smile on her face. Instead she had to give a scroll to the one who had cut her son instead. Neither of them would be able to look at their friends and proudly say 'That's my son, he's a Chunin.'
He wanted to hit something. Carefully he unclenched his fist and hung up the towel. He didn't want Naruto know just how angry he was at Sasuke, Sakura, Kiba and Ino. They'd been his students and he'd cared for all of them but if he saw them now…
Iruka took a breath and put on a clean shirt. Naruto's life would never be perfect. Nobody's was but it would have meant so much for him to be a part of that ceremony. No matter what, he'd make tomorrow special for his blond teen.
"Come here." He caught Naruto's arm and turned him to face him. Hair clean but messy. Face clean shaven, not that he had to worry too much about a five o'clock shadow yet. Showered, fresh clothes – he was presentable. "Nothing too outrageous okay? I'm used to how things just pop out of your mouth but we're going to Koji's house so tone it down a little, hmm?" He slid his hand down Naruto's arm to the cuff of his glove. "Wearing these too?" He made to hit Naruto and they traded a few blows giving Naruto a chance to use the guards on the gloves.
"I like these. They protect my hands and add something extra to my punches." Naruto grinned then carefully took them off. "But, these are for missions not ordinary stuff. I'm not a ninja while we're here – okay Dad?" When Iruka frowned at him, Naruto went on. "It's because I chose to be a ninja that things are all…funky! If I'd just stayed home, lived quietly then none of this would have happened." Naruto stroked the gloves once more before putting them away then sitting on the bed to put on his shoes.
"The villagers may even have forgotten all about me if I'd just hid myself away. It's not like they didn't give every reason to hide. But I wanted to be a ninja – so this is what I get." Shoes on, he looked at the floor between his feet. "Don't get me wrong Dad – I made the right choice. I love being a ninja. Because I'm a ninja, I met you and Mama T, Hinata, Pervy Sage and everybody else." He didn't mention Sasuke and even though that pain cut deep, he was glad to have met Sasuke too. "It's just…here I'm Naruto. I'm your son and nobody looks at me with fear or wonder or anticipation or expectation of anything!" He stood abruptly. "I can be quiet or loud or nice or mean without having to watch my back for kunai or medical darts full of poison. To Koji, I'm just a guy who's a little weird but harmless. I want to savor that for a while okay?"
Sadness, rage and hopelessness kept Iruka silent even as he nodded. He had to clear his throat several times. "Do you truly feel that way Naruto? Like your life is in danger at home? You never feel comfortable in Konoha?" It couldn't be! Why would he stay where he felt so insecure?
Naruto slapped his forehead. He should have kept his mouth closed. He felt like he could tell Iruka anything but now he'd worried him even more and it was too late to take it all back. He stepped forward and took Iruka's shoulders.
"Its home. I know that village inside and out. My family lives there, my girl and my friends. I don't…feel danger all the time and not much at all before the Chunin Exam but it's there – that tingle in my spine that someone's watching me with intent…to kill but it disappears when I turn around!" He shook Iruka when he would have spoken. "That's my life Dad! I'm used to it – I am! It's a threat aimed at me and not the ones I love. I can handle that! Be honest Dad, the Anbu is there to protect the village from outside threats as well as the one from within – me. Most likely I'll die violently by someone's hand – friend or foe. It's not just the life of a ninja but my life!" Naruto squeezed hard then let go of Iruka to walk to the window. "I want to take things easy here okay? No ninja stuff, no talk of ninjas. Let me pretend Dad. Two short weeks in my life. I'm just a guy on vacation with his dad and crazy grandfather!" Naruto laughed thinking of Jiraiya as stoop shouldered old man. Never in a millions would the old pervert let that happen! "Dad?"
Naruto watched as Iruka stomped into the bathroom and gripped the sink hard enough to shake it. He walked to the bathroom door not sure what to say when Iruka turned the water on full and proceeded to splash cold water on his face. Naruto slumped back against the wall. "Sorry…I should've kept my big mouth shut like you said. Man, I'm so STUPID! Whoa!" Naruto jumped when Iruka suddenly appeared in front of him.
"Now you can shut up Naruto! Tell me – always tell me what you're feeling." He raised his hand and tried to straighten Naruto's hair. "Thankfully, you've accepted me as your father and I can't be a good one if I don't know what you're thinking and feeling." He took Naruto's hand and placed it on his heart. "My heart is bleeding – it hurts to know that even at home you fear for your life. I can't…I can't say your fear isn't real because it's true. God help me - you have just as much to fear at home as you do from Orochimaru and others like him. I'm so sorry for that Naruto, so damn sorry." He held Naruto's wrist tightly. "Know this Naruto; neither I nor Tsunade will ever let them kill you. If it is within my power – I will stop them. If you ever truly fear for your life – leave Konoha. Leave and find happiness Naruto!" Iruka rested his forehead against Naruto's.
He believed him. Iruka would die trying to save his life. His father and Tsunade, his mother would take on the village to see him happy. "Thanks Dad." He said quietly. He coughed, "Umm, we're going to be late." He laughed as Iruka checked the time and cursed.
"Hurry up! Mayu's waiting." Iruka had to dry his face and get his shoes on. Shortly he was hustling them out the door.
Naruto watched him. As much as he loved them – he die before letting them try and save him. Iruka and Tsunade were important to Konoha. Both of them were needed to make the village a success. He wasn't. If that day ever came when the threat was true, he'd face it and welcome it. His future with Hinata would come to an end but if it meant they would live…no one should have to die protecting him. Thanks to them – all the ones he loved, he'd managed to find happiness. If he died now, all the pain had definitely been worth it.
The dress was perfect. It was a darker color than Hinata's eyes but it suited her pale skin. Naruto couldn't wait to see her face when he gave it to her. Gift in hand, they went to Koji's.
"Koji, I just knew you'd have to live in a house with high ceilings!" Naruto said when the tall teen opened the door and his father stood beside him. Everyone thought Koji was tall but he still had some growing to do compared to his father.
"See Father, Naruto says whatever he's thinking – just like you!" Koji laughed and introduced his father and mother, Satoshi and Oriana.
It was a nice evening. Koji's dad Satoshi, a builder, was a bit of a comedian himself. He and Naruto kept the group laughing. The teens starting thinking about the things they wanted to do the next day and when Koji's parents found out that Iruka and Mayu were also going, they decided to take the day off and join them. Getting on the phone Koji called his friends and shortly the group grew larger then Satoshi got on the phone to let his people know they wouldn't have to work the next day and when he hung up there were even more people to help Naruto celebrate. They didn't stay late since all of the next day promised to be non-stop.
On the way back to the hotel, Iruka and Naruto looked for and found Jiraiya in bar trying to charm the ladies. Making Naruto wait just outside, Iruka went to tell Jiraiya what was going on.
"Oh Ho! Well look it's the ungrateful Iruka! Come to beg my help in finding a sweet, young thang?" Jiraiya talked like he had it going on.
"I need to talk to you Master Jiraiya. Could you excuse us just a minute?" Iruka spoke to the woman next to him. He figured playing nice and showing respect might work.
Jiraiya smiled and nodded to the girl who excused herself but not before looking the younger man up and down. "What's up Iruka?" The besotted old man disappeared.
"Why do you hang out in these places? They'll just rob you blind!" Iruka said in an undertone as he checked out some of the prices. "Naruto must be right – you're rich if you can afford this place!"
"What can I say? My books are really popular! Want a drink?" Jiraiya was feeling superior now.
"Nah, Naruto's outside. Look," Iruka moved so Jiraiya could see his face. "Tomorrow's the ceremony and Naruto's going to miss it." He paused for saying that bothered him. "Anyway, he's going to have a party of sorts tomorrow and he wants you there. You don't have to stay for all of it but please show up." Iruka requested quietly.
Jiraiya looked at Iruka then glanced towards the open doorway where he could see the back of Naruto's blond head. "I thought he was mad at me. That jerk told me to fuck off Iruka! I can't believe you let him get away with that!"
"It was your own damn fault -!" He broke off because he wasn't there to argue. "Master Jiraiya, this isn't about that! This is about Naruto being away from home on one of the most important days of his life. You know what's going on! He has only you and me here to represent a whole village. He wants a touch of home Jiraiya – will you deny him that?!" Iruka pounded the table.
Jiraiya sighed and looked down into his drink. He was being petty and he knew that. It had been stupid to show up with those girls – especially bringing one for Naruto. He was still a kid! Again he glanced at the teen who was staring up at the stars. He looks so much like the Fourth. The Hokage had wanted a better life for Naruto than the one he'd grown up with. Like I could really deny that boy or him… "Yeah, yeah, okay I'll be there. Give me the details."
Iruka gripped the man's arm in gratitude. "Thanks Master Jiraiya." He told him about the day of play but then he had one more thing to tell him. "Loose the ninja gear."
"Huh, what'd ya mean?" Jiraiya asked pulling back from Iruka expecting the worse. "WHAT?! HIS GRANDPA? WHY THAT -!" Jiraiya yelled causing Naruto to turn and wave at him all the while Iruka struggled to keep him from throttling Naruto.
"Did you have to provoke him?" Iruka asked tiredly. It had taken several drinks to calm the Sannin down and several more to convince him to pretend to not be a ninja.
"All I did was wave!" Naruto complained then relented. It had taken his dad almost two hours to get Pervy Sage back to normal. "I'll pay you back." Naruto promised knowing just how much money those places took.
"I'll take it!" Iruka said quickly with a grin. "Anyway, everything's set for tomorrow. Nothing but good thoughts, okay?" They shared a smile then Iruka had an idea. "We can send them a message if you want and let them know where we are. Maybe Hinata can join us later." Why didn't I think of this before? Of course he'd want to spend some time with Hinata!
He paused taking in Iruka's suggestion but before too long he was walking again. "No thanks." Naruto laughed when Iruka stumbled. "Sure it would be great to hear from them and have Hinata here but…it would follow her. All of it – how the ceremony went, who feels what and her trying to make it all better. We couldn't really enjoy ourselves because I'd be thinking about what was going on in the village. Right now I know nothing and I like it that way. I'm forgetting and pretending now, remember?" Naruto breathed in the night air.
"But I'm sure Hinata would prefer to get away from it all too. Don't you want to share this time with her? Share this place where you can just be a normal couple? Why leave her in the village with all that's going on?" Iruka thought Naruto was being selfish.
"…Dad I'm going to marry Hinata. I'm going to share my life with her." His chest tightened with the love he was feeling. "My life. A life where people constantly desire my death or they fear and hate me – there are more of those people than those who like me! She has to learn how to deal with. It's cruel – leaving her behind and it's just as cruel my asking her to live with me and maybe one day have my kids. Dad if she can't handle things while I'm away from her for a few weeks – how will she do it 24/7? She's strong, I know that but the constant looks and whispers can wear on the soul. If after three weeks, she still wants me and my life…" Naruto looked at his father with shining eyes. "Blessed. I'll be blessed." He sighed. "Of course I'll have to work hard to keep her happy, make sure I don't lose her, and love her all the time! You know me Dad – when I want something, I never give up!"
It would have been impossible to not have doubts about their relationship though time and again Hinata had never left his side when something threatened to break them apart. Like he'd told Iruka earlier, his soul had often seemed unable to take the hate. Even now there were days when living was…undesirable. This time away was necessary. Not only would Hinata know if she could withstand the conflicts of his life but if she couldn't – he would learn what it was like to live without her love.
"No Son, you never give up." Iruka said quietly. Somehow he managed a smile. "Let's go. I'll need my rest if I'm going to keep up with you!" He threw an arm over Naruto's shoulder as they companionably walked back to their room.
Naruto slept peacefully. For the first time he'd voiced to someone who truly cared about how damn difficult his life really was. His legs were sticking out, barely on the bed. One arm was lying thrown back over his head while the other rested over his heart. Even his expression conveyed a sense of contentment.
Iruka sat next to him on the bed. He'd learned so much tonight. Having lost his own parents at a young age, he thought he knew how bad it had been for Naruto. He'd been wrong. The pain and loneliness he'd felt had been minor compared to the pain, hate loneliness and fear of imminent death that had been Naruto's life.
Naruto had said that it wore on his soul and Iruka didn't doubt that but he was amazed that Naruto had lasted this long. Depression and suicidal tendencies should have been his life. His spirit should have bowed to the pressure and made him a danger to himself. Training and missions would have offered multiple opportunities to seek death.
Yet he was fifteen, almost a man and he was a fine ninja. A ninja's life meant danger. It spoke volumes that Naruto had not only survived but thrived being one. Iruka doubted he could have done the same. The strength to keep moving forward must have come from those who had given him life. Iruka felt ashamed – ashamed of the village and himself especially because they had offered Naruto so little support. Everything he was, everything he had, the man he'd become was all done by Naruto.
Pride threatened to choke him just as the pain threatened to kill him. Never could he look again at Naruto without feeling pain – pain for what he hadn't done and pain for all he couldn't do to make his son's life better. Naruto's face became blurred by the tears flowing down Iruka's face. He reached out a shaky hand to rest it over Naruto's. Through the teen's hand he could feel his heartbeat. It was the heart of man so great, he had no words.
Closing his eyes, Iruka sought the spirits who had been protecting Naruto. It could have been his long lost parents or maybe it was the Third Hokage. His life had been just too hard not to have had some protection from the heavens. "I apologize. I've failed him so many times in his short life but for Naruto it must seem like several lifetimes. I want to make a promise. I promise that if it is within my power – I will protect his life and his happiness." Iruka's hushed voice was in tune with Naruto's breathing. "He said he would be blessed to marry Hinata but he's already been blessed with a strong spirit and a determined will. Despite his trials, Naruto has always fought his way through them. He may have come out broken and bloody but he heals and gets stronger every time!" He smiled. "He's a son to be very proud of." Opening his eyes, Iruka turned his head to look out at the night sky. "Although things are so much in the air with those he's closest to back home, I doubt his life has ever been better. Our boy has fallen in love." Iruka let out a soft chuckle. "I'm not sure Tsunade or I am ready for all that implies especially since he's now talking marriage but Naruto seems sure. He's had little guidance through the years but he's made some good choices. He knows what he wants and Hinata as his wife is what he wants. I just pray that she truly wants him as well and that they will be happy together."
A shuddering breath followed his words and Iruka thought he should try to get some sleep but feared he would relive his every action where he could have helped Naruto and didn't. Sleep or no sleep, he'd make sure Naruto had a good day. "Please continue to give him strength and I'll do my best to support and protect him. I want him to be proud to call me his father just as I am proud to have claimed him as mine." Iruka looked back down at Naruto. The teen scratched his head and yawned then turned towards the familiar presence of Iruka. "Sleep well Son, I'll be here for you - always." Iruka promised.
Jiraiya showed up the breakfast table wearing a wacky T-shirt, cargo pants and his wooden sandals. He'd pulled back his hair from his face and it hung down his back in a high ponytail. "Hey Sonny! Ready for a fun day?" He pulled a shocked Naruto out of his chair and hugged him enthusiastically.
"Per - , hey Granddad!" Naruto caught himself. Pervy Sage had actually changed clothes as was trying to act like a real grandfather.
Iruka got choked on his coffee but smiled as Jiraiya helped Naruto to sit down again then patted him on the head. "Morning Jiraiya, glad you could join us. Coffee?" He offered the pot and held in a laugh as Jiraiya swung his long hair over his shoulder as he sat down.
"Morning – Morning Iruka my boy! It's a beautiful day." He leaned forward and asked quietly. "How long do I have to keep this up? Wearing my hair this way is giving me a headache!" Then, "Yes please. Fill it up." He held out his cup.
Naruto's grin couldn't be stopped. "Thanks J-Jiraiya." It was weird using his name! He always called him Pervy Sage! "Just a little while, meet my new friends then you can take off. I just wanted to spend some time with both of you today." He looked from Jiraiya to Iruka warmly.
The Sannin drank his coffee then nodded to him. "Sure kid, let's have fun today." Jiraiya was amazed at how grown up Naruto seemed right then. It was almost as if he were looking at another blond man, a man long gone.
Iruka insisted Naruto eat whatever he wanted and as much as he wanted. "Just for today though! I don't think Tsunade will mind you pigging out on junk food since it's - well it's a celebration right?"
"Mmhmm!" Naruto nodded because his mouth was full. They're going to spoil me with all this special treatment stuff! Mama T won't let me get away with a thing when we get home so I better enjoy today!
Once Naruto turned his belly a balloon, they walked over to Mayu's shop. Her apartment was over her business and she greeted them just outside the door. "Hello, you must be Naruto's grandfather! But you're way too young!" Mayu flattered him since Iruka told her the man flirted with all women and wasn't necessarily happy to be tagging along. Since she wanted things to go well for Naruto she decided to be extra friendly.
Iruka smiled at her, she was a remarkable woman. They'd spent quite a lot of time together and he liked her more than the other women he'd been talking to and she seemed to fit with this mixed up family of theirs.
Naruto rolled his eyes as Jiraiya took Mayu's arm to escort her leaving Iruka in the dust. The perv never missed an opportunity to flirt! "You'd better keep an eye on him Dad – you don't want him to scare her off!" Naruto whispered in Iruka's ear making him laugh but the kid had a point.
Iruka didn't have a thing to worry about. When they got to Koji's place, the yard was full of people and several of them were young, unattached women. The old pervert's eyes lit up like it was Christmas. He hugged Naruto and exclaimed over what a good boy he was then went to introduce himself to all the lovely ladies.
"You know, I think he'll spend the day with us after all." Iruka said as he and Naruto watched Jiraiya then laughed together.
"So you ready Naruto? You said there were a lot of things you never tried before so we're going to do as many of those things today as possible. Maybe you'll find a new sport you really like." Grinning, Koji walked over to greet them.
"More than ready. I don't get much time to just fool around so this will be great! Man, were we expecting this many people?" Naruto knew several families were going to be showing up but damn! There were at least a hundred people there.
Koji laughed. "Hell no! Some of these people I don't even know! Friends of my parents and their friends and family. When they found out what we were doing, they wanted to tag along and Father asked them join us. I guess everybody needs a day to just goof off! We lucked out Naruto – we've got a place reserved for lunch and somebody is providing the food for tonight. We're cooking outside - dinner under the stars! It's going to be a hell of day – thanks Naruto." He slapped the teen's back.
Naruto looked at him in surprise. "Thanks for what Koji? You're the one who set all this up!" Naruto paused then held out his hand. "I'm such an idiot. Thank you." He took Koji's hand and shook it then turned to the guy's parents. "You guys too. Man, I'm sorry – you went to all this trouble and I never even said thanks." Naruto bowed to each of them solemnly but was surprised again when Satoshi smacked him on the back of the head and laughed at him.
"Your boy is an idiot!" Satoshi laughed down from his great height. No need to thank us! Koji had it right – thank you Naruto!" When Naruto just looked confused, he pulled the boy to his side and bent down closer to Naruto. "It was you who brought us together. Koji told us how he asked you to join them and how just having you there spiced up the game. Last night we laughed so hard, my stomach hurt when I woke up this morning." He walked them over to Iruka. "I work too much – I love my construction work but I work too much. Seeing you with your boy and knowing you'd taken off time to spend time with him – wanted to have fun with him…well it showed me what I'd been missing. It was easy after that to take the day off and let my people do the same. I called on the rest of my family and enticed them to join us and they were more than willing." Satoshi clamped an arm around Iruka's shoulder so that he had them both father and son.
"Hey everybody! It's because of these guys that we're got the day off! Be sure to thank them and congratulate Naruto! This day is something special to him; I also hear he's going to be married soon!" There were cheers competing with Satoshi's deep voice. "Okay then – let's get this day started! Where to first Naruto?"
He kept thinking that he should feel guilty or upset but he felt neither. Naruto was having one of the best days of his life. In fact he was damn glad that he didn't have to share this with anyone other than his father and Pervy Sage. Yes, a part of his heart ached at not getting the recognition he deserved from the village but Koji and everybody were making that bearable.
They began by taking him bowling but that wasn't enough action for Naruto although he did like it when by chance he'd made a strike before moving on. Next was Ping-Pong and he killed there much to Satoshi's surprise who was the current champ. He also spent some time at the batting cages, the arcades and the whole grouped packed into a movie theater before lunch. Then it was off to the amusement park. Everyone got a kick out of watching Jiraiya on the roller coasters because his hair would fly in the air like the tail end of a kite. Iruka won several goldfish for Naruto and Naruto won several prizes to take home for Hinata and Tsunade. Koji was impressed with how well the two of them did at the games requiring hand-eye coordination.
Wrapping up the day, they hit the swimming pools where again Jiraiya was a source of entertainment as he chased the girls. Naruto and Iruka showed off by staying underwater longer than anyone else. There was also a rock wall for climbing.
As promised they ate out under the stars at Koji's house. Hamburgers and hot dogs and more traditional foods like sushi, tempura, unagi and takyaki had been provided for a true buffet and tastes for everyone.
Night had fallen when Naruto slipped off by himself then up into a huge tree. He sat back against the rough bark of the tree staring up at the stars. It wasn't long before Iruka and Jiraiya were also there.
"Something wrong Naruto?" Jiraiya scanned the people below them.
"Naruto?" Iruka sat down facing him – worried.
"I had a good time." Naruto blinked. "I had a really good time." He smiled at them. "I'm a ninja and I love it but this…thanks guys. I really needed this! Nothing's changed back home nor have I but this time away…" Naruto laughed. "Let's do it again! Right before we leave. Maybe we can get everybody together again. Can we?!"
"Damn kid!" Jiraiya said one hand on his hip and laughed. They'd thought something was wrong.
"Naruto!" Iruka shook his head laughing. Leave it to Naruto to scare them then ask for something. "You're too much you know that! Come here – I think I owe you a pounding. Yeah that will be your gift!"
"Gotta catch me first!" Naruto fell sideways off the limb but landed on his feet then took off running all the while laughing.
"Oh I'm going to catch you! Come on Jiraiya, give me a hand." Iruka called out as he leapt down from the tree intent on catching Naruto.
Jiraiya laughed as Naruto and Iruka caught the others attention and some of the younger kids plus some of the neighborhood dogs joined in and just for the hell of it some of the adults too. Kids chased the adults and vice versa. "As much danger as the fox inside him brings, the boy himself brings laughter and happiness. Well, might as well join the fun – I might catch me a curvy body!" He too leapt to the ground and was soon causing several females to scream with laughter.
The next two weeks flashed by for the three. Iruka dated several women but Mayu seemed to with him more than any other. Naruto split his time between his father and his new friends. Iruka relaxed his rules and allowed Naruto to go hang out on his own though he often showed up when he was at loose ends and the gang of teens welcomed Naruto's cool Dad. Jiraiya played grandpa for a few days before screaming at Naruto that he'd eat toad poop before doing it again and storming off. Naruto had finally come up with plan and got his revenge on the old man – gleefully.
It happened a few days after the day of play. The old sage had slipped off to the red light district again. Jiraiya hit several of the bars before settling down in a lounge where you bought the girls drinks and they spent some quality time with the man spending money. The Sannin thought he'd lucked out when a beautiful redhead (who didn't work for the lounge) approached him. She bought the Sannin several drinks then asked if he wanted to leave with her and meet up with her friend of hers. Feeling high, Jiraiya jumped to his feet, took her arm and laughed all the way out of the door.
They hadn't gone a block before a cute, slightly older blond showed up and the girls crowded him into an alleyway. Squashed between two lovely ladies, Jiraiya lost his head and his control. They didn't do much but lean against him and talk dirty (they used words from a certain popular book) but it was enough to get certain parts of his body to respond.
The blond managed to pick his pocket and the redhead cut the belt and waistband of his pants. Suddenly an older woman or hag, for lack of a better word, appeared smiling and thanking the girls for finding her such a prime specimen. Jiraiya's pants hit the ground showing all his family jewels since he liked to go commando when he was on the prowl. He squealed like a little girl and tried to pull up his ruined pants as the old woman grinningly approached him.
"Look at it! Come here honey, I know just what to do with that!" The old woman cackled.
Jiraiya finally managed to pull up the pieces of his pants but not before the woman took hold of what she wanted. He looked to the girls for help but they were laughing and backing away saying they wouldn't dare interrupt now! It was another tug-of-war but this time it was Jiraiya who couldn't escape.
The girls couldn't contain their laughter and the redhead dropped to the ground. Poof! It was Naruto and he was crying holding his stomach. The blond fell back against a wall. Poof! It was Iruka almost howling with laughter.
Jiraiya yelled at the top of his lungs at the two of them to end this. He'd been thinking the hag was one of them – a clone but…they wouldn't…do this…! This woman was real! This old woman who had him by the dick and who was trying to get at his balls was some old toothless hag! Another squeal and Jiraiya frantically tried to break the woman's grip.
All the laughing and screaming had caught the attention of several people who peered into the alley to see what was going on. It was funny or it was disgusting but in any case – Jiraiya the Toad Sage, one of the three great Sannin was embarrassed beyond belief!
Naruto missed how he got away from the old woman because he couldn't see for his tears of mirth. His last glimpse of Jiraiya was of his bare ass running out into the street!
Shaking and still crying with laughter, Iruka had tried to pay the woman but she wouldn't take the money saying she'd had too much fun and if that big strong man ever wanted a real woman, then they should give him her name.
Father and son had had to prop each other up on the way back to their room because they kept seeing Jiraiya getting a hand job by an old woman and despite him trying to escape; his body had obviously been enjoying the attention. The old sage had gotten his just desserts and neither could stop laughing about it.
It was in the middle of the night when Jiraiya had busted into their room and cussed them each out or tried to but just seeing him soon, started the laughter up again. Red enough to fry eggs, that's when he told Naruto that he'd eat toad poop but that only made them laugh even more. When he stormed out, Naruto was pounding on the floor while Iruka was hanging off his bed.
Jiraiya avoided them after that until their last day. Iruka had asked Satoshi to send the Sannin an invitation to join them at the skate park. Naruto's revenge was over and they were all heading home in the morning so, he thought they should try and be civil with each other. Iruka knew that Jiraiya had enjoyed spending time with Satoshi's family and figured he'd want to say goodbye to them and hoped the three of them could come to terms as well.
Mayu was there and was feeling sad knowing that they were leaving. She'd come to like father and son very much and had enjoyed spending time with them. Iruka was a fine catch and she'd promised to not only write but visit when she got the chance.
Naruto and Koji were rollerblading. It was another new sport Naruto had taken up and while he did good sometimes – he fell more often than not but it was so much fun that he didn't care.
This party would be the last goodbye. Many couldn't get off work again but a lot stopped by to wish them well. Many little ones were in the rink pulling and pushing Naruto trying to make him fall. Satoshi, his wife, Jiraiya, Mayu and Iruka were all sitting down and watching the kids.
"We're going to miss you three. You've brought us a lot of laughter." Satoshi covered his mouth looking slyly at Jiraiya. "I hear you had a…adventure in the red light district Jiraiya." He tried and failed to contain his laughter as the white haired man stiffened. "Here you go – her address, for when you next come back to down. She insisted I give it to you!" The table erupted with laughter as Jiraiya set fire to the torn up pieces of paper.
"You and Naruto better watch your backs Iruka!" Mayu laughed. She hadn't been told what led up to the revenge plot but most people had heard of the man attacked by the old woman and couldn't stop laughing about it.
"I know but he deserved it! Come on Jiraiya – let's call it even!" He pleaded fearing retribution.
Jiraiya shook a finger at Iruka. If he thought about from their point of view, yes it had been funny but his face steamed at remembering how the old woman had managed to make him hurt so bad that shortly after getting away he'd…well you know. Jiraiya counted it as a lucky break that he'd got away before exploding right there in the street in front of all those people. "Nuh- uh, no way. This is war now!" He glanced out at Naruto who landed on his ass making the little ones laugh. The kid had it easy now but later…
Koji rolled to a stop and stared down at Naruto from his great height. "I thought you were here to skate, not polish the floor with your butt!" He laughed then let out a yell as Naruto attacked his legs and brought the giant down! The two wrestled good-naturedly with a few little ones thrown in.
The blond kid looked like Uzumaki, a little older maybe. Kabuto said the kid liked to wear orange but the one in the rink had on green and blue. Still he was the best match for the kid they were looking for. He'd just stick around to find out who he was.
This spy was one of three searching this town. There had been many reports of a loud blond teen but no name was mentioned. Since they were looking for a teenager, the spy had thought to check out this skating rink. Uzumaki was on a vacation of sorts after all. He watched the blond fall and get teased by huge guy. Seeing the blond easily bring down the other guy made the spy stand tall and watch them more closely.
Jiraiya and Iruka had both relaxed while on vacation but the seasoned ninja noticed the man avidly watching Naruto and frowned. He just wasn't an interested parent nor did he look like he was there to have fun like everyone else. When the man stood up and inched closer to railings, eyes never leaving Naruto – Jiraiya was sure he was an enemy. "Iruka."
Iruka reluctantly took his eyes off of Mayu. He was about to say something silly to aggravate Jiraiya when he noticed his eyes. Instantly the casual, friendly Iruka disappeared and the ninja reappeared. "What is it?" He scanned the rink and found Naruto safe then swept the other patrons. It took only a couple of minutes. "Who, do you think?" He wanted to move and take out the threat to his son but he didn't want to draw any unnecessary attention in case there were more enemies about them.
Satoshi, Oriana and Mayu noticed how tense the men had become. This was new. There was an air of danger around them and it was frightening.
"Iruka, what's going on?" Satoshi asked. "What?" He started as Jiraiya moved swiftly to his feet.
"Satoshi, Oriana, Mayu – it was nice to meet you but this is goodbye. Iruka, watch him. I'll take a look outside. We'll leave tonight." Jiraiya nodded to the shocked people then on silent feet moved away then vanished.
"Oh -!" Iruka pulled Mayu close and kissed her cheek.
"DON'T – don't draw any attention our way. Please – Naruto's life depends on it!" He spoke lowly but Satoshi and Oriana heard and they nervously sat back in their chairs furtively glancing at the rink. Koji was out there with Naruto!
"Koji is safe – I promise you. It's only Naruto they want. Dammit!" Rage flowed through Iruka. One more day – just one more fucking day is all Naruto had asked for and now it was spoiled.
Out in the rink, Naruto flopped backwards laughing. A little girl lay on his chest and he patted her on the back. He looked over at Koji who had three kids crawling over him.
"Hey Koji! Didn't know it was so easy to intimidate you!" One of his buddies yelled as Koji cried out for mercy.
"You come out here and try to fight these guys off!" Naruto yelled back seeing as Koji was laughing too hard to talk.
"His name is Koji? Then that's not Uzumaki Naruto." The spy muttered to himself. "Dammit, where'd that kid go? Kabuto's going to be angry if we don't find him before Lord Orochimaru returns!" He watched the teens finally escape the kids and help each other up but no more names were mentioned and he couldn't get too close without appearing suspicious - that and he couldn't skate. The damn teens wouldn't get out of the rink!
Another hour went by before he gave up to try some other places. Later after he met up with his comrades, they could check out this kid again – just to be sure. The name Koji could be an alias…
Iruka breathed a little easier and said a prayer of thanks that for once nobody had called out Naruto's name. The enemy apparently wasn't a very good ninja – lucky for them. They all sat in oppressive silence until that moment. As soon as the man left, Iruka stood. Naruto had truly not been a ninja while they were there. He'd noticed nothing but it was time for Iruka to remind him of who he was.
He wasn't completely weapon-less. Iruka didn't have any kunai on him but he had some shuriken. He slipped one out of his pocket and aimed it Naruto's head. Iruka paid no attention to the gasps of his friends.
Naruto was about to say something when he sensed a weapon flying his way. If he moved then Koji would get hit. No way would he let that happen! Reacting swiftly he turned and let the shuriken enter his palm to stop it. "Dad?" He whispered as he stared back at his father and noticed that it wasn't just his father but Iruka the shinobi. The clincher was Pervy Sage was nowhere to be seen.
Serious blue eyes scoped out the skating rink but detected no danger. "Come on Koji. We gotta go." His voice was dead as with slow purpose he skated back into the life of a ninja.
"Naruto? What's wrong? What did you catch?" Koji was confused as hell as the happy guy he knew transformed into a blank slate.
"Are you all right?" Mayu stood anxiously with a napkin in hand ready to tend Naruto's wound.
"Yeah." He'd already removed the bloody shuriken and handed it back to Iruka then gently accepted the napkin and wrapped up his hand so they wouldn't see it was now healed. "How many?"
"Just the one. Jiraiya's taking a look. We're leaving tonight. No stops – straight home." Iruka squeezed Naruto's shoulder. "Sorry Son."
Naruto took a deep breath. "Had to happen sometime." The next question hurt. "Ours?" He wanted to know if the ones after him were from home – were they Konoha shinobi.
"No! No Naruto." Iruka pulled him close. He hated it that Naruto had even felt the need to ask that question but how could he not the way things were back home. "We should head back – pack up and move. Let's not make things easy for them."
"Right." They stood side by side, searching the crowd and looking for the best escape route. "Out the front? Won't I stand out?" Naruto meant his blond head. "Transformation?"
"Good idea. We'll both do it. Seemed like he was only looking for you but they probably know we're together. Let's go to the restroom." Iruka now took a moment to look at their friends. "Sorry for the trouble. We'll contact you once we're safe. Goodbye." Iruka said and with Naruto in tow headed for the men's room.
"Father?" Koji had no idea what was going on but they just couldn't let them leave if someone was after Naruto. "Father?!"
"Yeah, okay." Satoshi looked down at Oriana and Mayu. "Go home. We'll get some answers." He shooed them away then hurried after Naruto and Iruka.
They had to wait until it was empty. A couple kids played around in the sink before Iruka sent them on their way. The door had just closed behind the kids when Satoshi and Koji entered.
"We came to help. Well that and get some answers." The man said looking concerned and scared at the same time.
"No time! We've got to get back and clear out of that hotel before they find it!" Iruka looked exasperated by Satoshi and Koji. "Do it Naruto – we have to go. Now!"
Naruto hadn't wanted them to know he was a ninja but if he wanted to protect them he had to do what was necessary. Quickly he performed the hand signs and transformed. He became a male version of the redhead used to trick Jiraiya.
"What?" Koji's mouth dropped open.
"Ninja." Satoshi nodded and suddenly what happened back there made a fraction of sense. "You can come to our place! Stay there till night fall – let us help you." He took hold of the blond man Iruka had become. "Please."
Iruka thought about it. "No we've been there. They could stop by there and cause trouble if they see us, even in disguise. Thanks but no."
"Father – that new site! What about there? They can hide there!" Koji volunteered. He was thinking even as his eyes tried desperately to see Naruto in the man before him and failed.
"Yes, yes! Good thinking Koji!" Satoshi rattled off a location where he was soon to begin work but first it had to be cleared. The building was condemned and there was debris everywhere. "It should be safe enough, right?"
Iruka liked the location. It was close to the edge of town with a forest behind it. It would do nicely. "No it's still a connection to you and that would put you in danger." It would be better for them to not to know any more of their plans. Blond Iruka bowed to Satoshi and Koji. "Thanks for being such good friends and sorry for this trouble. As soon as we can, we'll contact you."
Naruto took Koji's hand then pulled him in for a quick hug. "Thanks man. You were a good friend when I needed one." Naruto pounded hard on Koji's back then let go. He saw his father was already checking the hall. Iruka nodded back at him and the two slipped out into the crowd.
Mayu had stopped by her store before following Oriana back to her house. Naruto's in danger and Iruka knows about weapons! I thought he was a teacher! Still she was worried about them and hoped Satoshi would find out what was going on. She hurried towards Koji's house but in the street, two men blocked her path for a moment.
"Thanks for the great dress Mayu. I hope you and Dad get to see each other again." Naruto said as he brushed by her.
"Mayu…I'll miss you. Take care of yourself. You're a wonderful woman." Iruka's fingers mixed with hers briefly before he once again became just another man on the street.
She stopped, heart in her throat looking for them. It had been their voices – she was sure of that. Just as she was sure of Iruka's touch but Mayu couldn't see them anywhere. She started to call out for them but remembered Iruka's look of fear as he'd stared at Naruto. Calling their names might cause big problems so she covered her mouth with one hand and headed for Satoshi's hoping to find them there but behind her hand she was already whispering goodbye.
Speed. They moved as quickly as possible and as normally as possible to their room. No more than fifteen minutes later they left it again. Iruka quickly checked Jiraiya's room, saw that it was empty and they left by the back way.
A little curry shop was where they found the Toad Sage. It was a prearranged meeting spot in case they ran into trouble. At a table near the kitchen and facing the street they held a quiet conversation. "At least three of them and they are looking for you kid." Jiraiya had taken on the persona of a middle aged man with long brown hair. "I saw one of them looking at some kind of card with your picture and information about you on it."
It took Naruto only a second. "Kabuto! He uses cards like those." When Jiraiya looked confused, "That guy with Orochimaru. The one who almost…killed me." His tone was extra quiet as Naruto put a hand over his heart.
Iruka's muscles jumped. Tsunade had told him the story and he wanted to do some severing of his own like Kabuto's head from his body!
Jiraiya nodded remembering the young man who wore glasses and served Orochimaru. His medical skill was second only to Tsunade's – a formidable foe and as evil as Orochimaru – they could expect the unexpected with lots malice. "Okay, since we don't know how many more are out there, I still say we head for home tonight. It's just the three of us so we need to stick together and take out any who confront us." Jiraiya took a sip of tea.
"We've got a place to hide." Iruka told Jiraiya about the construction site.
"It could work but what about them – Koji and Satoshi? If they show up, they could lead Kabuto right to us and get themselves killed in the process. Not only that but you let know we're ninjas. Was that wise?" A frown wrinkled his smooth face. He'd enjoyed Satoshi and his family as well but people did and said things they normally wouldn't when their lives were threatened.
"…I don't think they'd tell. Besides when these bastards don't find us, they'll have to assume we've left already and we never said we were going to use the site. Dad let them believe we'd find a different place to hide and it's near the forest. We can hole up in the forest and watch the site, maybe take one of the bastards out – get some info. Right?" Naruto looked from one man to the other.
Iruka and Jiraiya exchanged a glance. Naruto was back in the game. "I like it. Jiraiya?"
"Fine. We've got a few more hours to kill so let's keep to the shadows and make our way over there. Iruka in the lead and I'll bring up the rear." The three Konoha shinobi discreetly left the curry shop. It was late afternoon now and they had to wait until full dark before making a move for home.
It was a hole in the ground – literally. Hundreds of feet from the site and several feet inside the forest, they'd found the depression in the ground. Apparently at one time it had been a feeding ground for some carnivores since there were gnawed on bones in the very back. Nerves were on high alert and they took turns watching the surrounding area from behind some dead brush. No one was around and it was very quiet. Their voices would have carried on the slightest breeze so only hand signs were allowed. They dozed and watched, dozed and watched.
Before the moon could rise too high, they ventured out and with one last look at the town, hurried for home with the scent of danger on their heels. One whole day they traveled with no sign of pursuit. In the early evening they took a short rest. Naruto was sleeping as he sat next to Iruka, chin on his chest when the sound of a kunai cutting the air woke him.
Iruka blocked the kunai easily as Naruto jumped to his feet. Jiraiya had disappeared even before either of them had heard the kunai. "Move! Go! Move it Naruto!" Iruka pushed him ahead of him forcefully.
"Pervy Sage!" Naruto looked around for another attack.
Jiraiya appeared in a tree holding a limp body. "It's the three from before. Get back to the village and I'll take care of them! Go Naruto – I'm right behind you!" He told the teen to go but seeing that Naruto was reluctant to leave him, "No females to distract me, I'll be fine!" Jiraiya was relieved to see the boy smile and nod then take off. He waved to Iruka then threw the man to the ground and began the search for the others. If I can learn their plan…then I can put a stop to this before it gets out of hand. Thought Jiraiya as his ears picked up movement to his right.
Unfortunately for them, Jiraiya learned too late that separating him from Iruka and Naruto had been the plan all along. They'd fallen directly into Kabuto's trap…