Sorry this so took so long, it's been one of those weeks and I got stuck a few times. Anyway, here it is and I hope you think it was worth the wait.
Marchgirl
Reconnect
Naruto opened his apartment door and waited for Hinata to go out ahead of him. Once outside he paused looking up at the clear evening sky. There wasn't a cloud to be seen.
Hinata watched him. Last night he'd been so happy to have clouds and rain but that was last night. "You okay?" She reached for his face and cupped his cheek.
"What?" He asked as he looked down at her. Lavender concern. Naruto smiled. "I'm great. It's a beautiful night don't you think? I'm okay sweetheart, really." He turned his head to kiss her hand.
She studied him. He'd changed yet again but for her, this was a wonderful change. The smiles came more often and they reached his eyes again. "Don't be too hard on Lady Tsunade, okay?" Naruto had told her that he planned on talking to his mother about the Anbu. "She just worries about you."
"Well she's got nothing to worry about anymore now does she? I've got my brother and sister. I've got Kakashi and Dad and her." He kissed her then spoke against her lips. "And I've got you and a wedding to plan," Naruto pulled back. "You'll do most of that right? I've never even been to a wedding!" He looked worried for a second. "Have you? What happens during a wedding?" Naruto scratched his head.
Hinata laughed and hugged him. "We'll figure it out! Come on." She linked their fingers and pulled him along.
The couple was lost in their own world and didn't notice the people watching them. They laughed and kissed. Even their footsteps were the same. Naruto and Hinata would have been surprised to know that most of those people were smiling and nodding. They were glad to see Naruto happy again as well as the Hyuga heir walking boldly out in the open instead of shyly keeping to the shadows. It was really nice to see.
When they arrived at Tsunade's office they were surprised to find that she wasn't there. Instead Shizune was waiting with a message. "I'm sorry, she had to go out suddenly but asked that you go to your father's and she'll meet you there. Is that all right?" She'd been somewhat put off having to face Naruto when she knew that he wanted very little to do with her.
Naruto and Hinata looked at each other. "Has something happened, an emergency?" Naruto frowned expecting the worst. It seemed something was always happening when he least wanted it to.
Her hands went up. "Oh no, nothing like that! I believe she forgot an appointment or had something she wanted to do before meeting with you that's all. I didn't mean to worry you." She said with feeling. Shizune did not want him upset.
Hinata looked from one to the other in apprehension. Things between these two were still far from being resolved. "Umm, thank you for telling us Shizune. Come on Naruto, we don't want to keep Dad waiting. It's good that we're eating there anyway, Dad's a better cook than your mom." She was rewarded with a quick laugh.
Naruto turned to smile at her when she called Iruka dad but that stuff about Mama T's cooking was too true. "Just don't tell her!" He put his arm around her waist, spared a nod for Shizune then escorted Hinata away.
"Do you think you can ever forgive her?" Hinata asked as they walked to Iruka's place.
He shook his head. "I don't honestly know. There're nights when I wake up scared that Dad is really dead and have to go check. Forgiveness may be a long time coming." Naruto sighed then pulled her tighter to his side. Not wanting to dwell on Shizune, he thought of a happier topic. "What do you think, should we tell them? Or maybe you want to wait until Lord Hiashi is there and tell them all at once?"
Hinata turned into him so that she was walking backwards. "Well, I was thinking we should get them all together and tell them but they may guess before we can do that." She grinned as he lifted her off her feet. "It's kinda obvious that we're both in really good moods."
Naruto kissed her. "You think?" He laughed. "That's too bad though, I'd like to surprise them with the news." He said putting her on her feet again. "Make them happy with something I've done." He frowned playfully for a moment. "Maybe when you get pregnant!" Those blue eyes of his were bright with laughter and love.
"You're already thinking babies?!" Hinata blinked up at him with a huge smile. She leaned close and whispered in his ear. "Well first you have to be inside me Naruto and do a little work then maybe…." Her laughter flowed over the nearby people as Naruto tickled her.
"Why you -!" Naruto started when a deep voice interrupted them.
"Uzumaki, are you causing a public disturbance?"
The couple froze and turned to look up at Ibiki. He stared down at them, his scars too visible in the evening sun.
"Umm…" Naruto looked around to see groups of people staring at them. Surprisingly enough it seemed a lot of those people were ninjas and they were laughing but it wasn't the mean kind but happy laughter. Even those few who were villagers were smiling. "Maybe. We ah…" He started to say when Ibiki placed a large hand on his head.
"Good. Keep it up; we've missed the sound of your laughter. You two carry on now." Ibiki rubbed the teen's head and smiled at them.
They both blinked like owls and more people laughed and a few whistled and told them to continue the show. Hinata and Naruto both blushed and the laughter really got loud. "Okay, I think we'll be going now." Naruto waved at the people and pulled Hinata along. The whole rest of the way they got good reactions from anyone they came across.
Just before reaching Iruka's place they stepped into the shadows of two homes. Hinata looked over Naruto's shoulder. "That was kind of weird. Nice but weird." The last time she could remember so many people looking at her fondly was when she was still a young child.
"Huh, you can say that again!" Naruto also looked back and returned someone's smile. He had no idea who the ninja was. "And Ibiki, first he scared the crap out of me then told me he missed my laugh. We only worked together that one time when we were trying to become Chunin. I barely know the man! What's up with that?"
Hinata just smiled. He didn't know that most of the ninjas were on his side. She'd put off his party because until now he hadn't been ready but maybe he'd be up to it soon. It was time he learned that a lot of people were actually wishing him well. She shrugged, "Guess he just knows a good guy when he sees one. Let's go, Dad's waiting."
He just gave her a disbelieving look but it did feel good – people smiling at him and not watching him warily. Naruto decided not to dwell on it just in case it was a fluke. The two of them moved the last few feet to Iruka's door. He knocked once then opened the door. "Dad? We're here!"
The small sitting room was as neat as ever but empty. From the kitchen, the smell of cooking food tantalized. "Naruto?" Iruka poked out his head and smiled at the two of them. "Hey! How are you? No, never mind!" He stepped fully out of the kitchen to look at them. It was Naruto of the bright eyes and big smile and the self-assured and totally in love Hinata. "You're both so damn happy that my meal is going to be put to shame!" He laughed as they blushed and he hugged them both. "Guess a day off and time together is what the doctor ordered."
"Daaad." Naruto complained wondering what he knew.
"Need some help?" Hinata quickly asked.
Iruka wanted to tease them some more but held off. "Sure. Come on, you too Naruto." He told his son whose butt was hovering over a chair. "Family dinner – everybody helps."
He frowned but joined them in the kitchen. A knife and some vegetables were his tasks. "So where's Mama T? We went to her office but she left for some appointment or something."
"Tsunade?" Iruka frowned for he had been wondering why they hadn't shown up together. "I don't know but if something was up Shizune would have told you." He looked over at Naruto and saw the doubt on his face. "Look son, she made a mistake – a huge one and I don't think she'll ever do that again where you and I are concerned. If something was up, she would have told you."
"She'd better tell the truth if she knows what's good for her." Naruto muttered and chopped up a pepper with more force than necessary.
Hinata looked at the two of them. Neither was all that happy about having Shizune in their lives but because of Tsunade they tried. She opened her mouth to say something when there was a knock on the door.
"I'll get it!" Naruto said quickly to get out of the kitchen. He grinned at his father.
Naruto opened the door then blinked. "Oh hey Lord Hiashi." Hinata naked ran through his mind and he blushed furiously.
A deep laugh rumbled up from his stomach. Lavender eyes crinkled at the sides as Lord Hiashi stepped forward and took Naruto's shoulders. "Something wrong Son? I would have thought a day with my daughter would have made you smile but you look a little sick."
"Umm, I umm…Hinata – no not Hinata, ahh…" He looked up into those knowing eyes and felt his temperature rise.
The boy was transparent. Lord Hiashi laughed so loudly that Hinata appeared from the kitchen. Seeing her father then Naruto so red he looked sunburned, she too started blushing. "F-F-Father!" She hurried forward wondering what the hell was going on.
Hiashi let go of Naruto who fidgeted and sort of stood slightly behind Hinata and looked at his daughter. "Hello Daughter." He leaned down and kissed her cheek.
"H-hello. Umm, Father…how did you know I was here?" Hinata asked wringing her hands. Is he upset because of my staying out all night? That I spent the day in Naruto's bed?! The Anbu must have told! "Father nothing –!"
"Hey what happened to my helpers?" Iruka said then saw Lord Hiashi and two very embarrassed and worried teens. "What the hell did you say to them? They were glowing just a moment ago!" Iruka said trying to hide his laughter. He knew exactly what was going on.
"I said nothing but hello. Naruto couldn't speak the moment he opened the door and saw me." Hiashi went to shake Iruka's hand. "You said you needed help in the kitchen? Well here's and extra pair of hands, put me to work!" He and Iruka contained themselves until they reached the kitchen then made lots of noise to cover their chuckles.
"What's your father doing here?" Naruto whispered as he pulled her into a far corner. He pulled on his shirt and fanned himself.
Her long dark hair flew from side to side. "I don't know! We last saw him yesterday." She poked him in the chest. "Your dad must have invited him!" Hinata whispered back. Next she grabbed his jacket. "What are we going to do? Do you think they're really upset about last night?"
Naruto put his hands on her waist. "Well Dad's not but damn, the minute I saw your father all I could think about was you naked in my bed! He stared at me like he knew exactly what I was thinking!" He shuddered and leaned closer to her.
Hinata's eyes widened and she flushed all over again as she imagined Naruto naked and then both their fathers in the kitchen. She shook him. "Naruto – we're having dinner with our parents – you can't think about me naked!" Even as she said that her nipples showed through her blouse.
"You are not helping babe." Naruto said dryly looking at the hard little points. "We'll just – Shit!" He hollered out as there was a knock on the door. His blue eyes went wide thinking that it was his mother.
Hinata let out high-pitched giggle as she thought the same thing and wondered if they'd survive the night.
"Naruto, get the door. You guys can kiss later!" Iruka said when he finally found them clutching each other in a corner. "I would have thought you'd be able to contain yourselves for a little while!"
"We weren't…" But he didn't get to finish because Iruka disappeared back into the kitchen. Naruto sighed, held Hinata for a moment more then went to let in his mother but it was Kakashi-sensei.
"Hey Naruto, missed you at training this morning." He held in his hand a brown bag. His lone eye traveled over him then Hinata. "You two okay? You don't look so good." When they both just looked at each other and sighed, Kakashi had a hard time not smiling. "Iruka told me to bring some extra stuff so I'm going on into the kitchen. Really Naruto, maybe you should take tomorrow off and rest. You must have had a hard night." It hurt him not to laugh as their combined blush became the focal point of the room.
Naruto grabbed her hand. "I say we leave right now! Once Mama T gets here we're stuck. Come on babe!" His eyes were wild thinking that dinner wouldn't be a meal but subtle torture.
"But won't they come after us?" Hinata asked but she held tightly to his hand as Naruto opened the door. She'd laughed earlier thinking of how telling their parents would be like a storm and instead of facing it now, later seemed like a much better idea when they weren't so flustered. They could be brave later, much later.
They got nowhere because with one foot out of the door, Tsunade showed up. Naruto felt his stomach sink to his feet. "Damn, damn, damn. I'm sorry babe. We had one good night." He looked down at Hinata and saw the same stuck-in-the-quicksand feeling on her face.
Tsunade eyed them but didn't show her smile. "Going somewhere Naruto? Did you forget something?" She moved forward as they inched closer together and avoided her eyes.
"No ma'am." He sighed with resignation. "Just getting some air." He took a deep breath then turned around abruptly. "Take a breath sweetheart; I think you're going to need it." He said on a pseudo whisper and waited for Hinata to take a breath.
Tsunade held her stomach as she followed the kids into Iruka's and firmly closed the door behind her. "Smells good in here! I hope you guys can eat something." She pushed them into the kitchen.
Naruto sat next to Hinata. On either corner of the table sat the Hokage and Lord Hiashi with Kakashi and Iruka facing the couple. Neither of them spoke and barely ate as the adults around them laughed and enjoyed themselves. Beneath the table, Naruto's leg bounced nervously while Hinata twitched every so often.
"That was some storm last night, was there much damaged Tsunade?" Hiashi asked and grinned when both teens froze.
"In some places yes. There were even a few homes that got flooded. I have to admit, it kept me up late into the night." Her eyes sparkled as she scooped up some noodles.
"There was a small pond in front of the academy that the kids found this morning and tracked mud into my classroom. We spent have the morning cleaning! Little rug rats." Iruka said with affection.
"I slept like a log." Kakashi sat then leaned forward. "So what'd you do during the storm Naruto, Hinata?" He was so tempted to lift his headband and see what was really going on with them but their flushed faces spoke volumes.
Naruto steeled himself and looked up at his sensei. "None of your damn business." Tired of the innuendos, he spoke his mind.
"Naruto!" Hinata gasped and reached for his hand. She watched opened mouthed as he stood with her hand in his.
"We're not babies! We know we were watched last night and that you know EXACTLY what happened so I'm not going to sit here and be tortured or feel guilty for anything we did! Dad, thanks for dinner." He nodded at Iruka then pulled on Hinata's hand. "Let's go sweetheart!"
Hinata stood up instantly. She had no problem leaving and Naruto was right. "Thanks for the meal, goodnight."
Kakashi sat back totally surprised. Iruka got choked while Tsunade blinked. Only Lord Hiashi laughed. "Please don't leave! We shouldn't have teased you so – forgive us!" He stood and moved quickly enough to block their path.
Hinata and Naruto looked at him suspiciously. They moved closer together and prepared for anything.
Hiashi kept his smile and was so pleased to see them standing together ready to fight for the right to be together. Cautiously he moved forward and placed a hand on their shoulders. He chuckled as Naruto flinched as if he was expecting to get hit with some chakra. "Yes we know some of what happened last night and we're proud of your accomplishment Naruto but I must say I'm more pleased to see you two so in synch with each other." He leaned down and captured their linked hands. Patiently he waited as they let down their guard while exchanging glances. "Wonderful!" He hugged them both together.
She didn't let go of Naruto as her other arm circled her father's back. "You're not angry…I stayed with Naruto?" Hinata's voice was so weak she wasn't sure anyone heard her.
"Well for my unmarried daughter to stay all night with her boyfriend, isn't exactly what I wish – how could I be upset? Neither of you could see me last night you were so into each other. What kind of fool would I be to keep you apart after all you've gone through?" He turned to Naruto. "You kept her safe like you promised."
Naruto didn't see anything to fear and let out a huge sigh. "That was the easy part but without Hinata there things could've gotten out of hand." His smile was aimed at his lady while he scratched the back of his head.
She shook her head. "You would have done it anyway Naruto, just believe in yourself like you always have." Hinata said with conviction and love.
"You're making me look bad." Iruka complained as he joined them and dared to elbow Hiashi out of his way. "Sorry Naruto, you're just so easy to tease. You too Hinata." He leaned over and kissed the girl's cheek then slapped Naruto's shoulder. "You did good controlling that chakra." Iruka's eyes were full of pride. "I'd like to be there when you do it next."
"And he's not the only one! I'd like to see it as well as Sakura, not to mention Sasuke. He's been training all day saying he won't let you get too far ahead of him." Kakashi said as he left the table. "I just wonder how quickly you'll make it into the bingo books!" He rubbed Naruto's head.
While he was enjoying the praise, Naruto was also wondering something. "Does everybody know?" His eyes got wide as he looked at Hinata. "Is that why all those people were laughing and smiling at us in the street?" He turned to face his mother who was still at the table. "Aren't the Anbu supposed to keep secrets? Dammit, Mama T, when am I going loose the bodyguards?! I'm not going anywhere!" His eyes were fierce and his hands were clenched as he stared at her.
Tsunade serenely wiped her mouth and stood. She straightened her jacket and walked calmly over to Naruto who still looked like he was ready for an argument or a fight.
"Naruto your mother means well." Iruka spoke up quickly. "Maybe you should…" He trailed off when Tsunade held up a hand.
Hinata moved in front of Naruto. "Lady Tsunade I know what Naruto did hurt you." She bravely faced down the Hokage. "But you weren't there. You didn't see him lying half-dead next to several bottles of poison! You did hear him tell me that I should have let him die." Hinata's voice shook.
"Hinata…" Naruto took her shoulders and lowered his head until his face was next to hers. "I'm so sorry. I'm sorry…" He captured her hand as she cupped his jaw.
"Shh Naruto, I know." Hinata kissed his cheek gently then turned back to Tsunade. "If he'd died, I probably would have died as well so I understand your fear of losing him. Maybe it was necessary to have him watched before but not anymore." Hinata smiled slightly as Naruto's arm encircled her waist. "He still wants to protect us by leaving but he won't. He knows you need him and he needs us. Haven't you noticed, since that day in the hospital until now, he's done everything possible not to scare you, anger you or hurt you?"
"Last night…last night was very special to us. It was for us alone but we weren't alone! That storm," There was awe in Hinata's voice. "We were that storm and yet we weren't able to fully enjoy it because eyes were watching us. Some moments are meant to be private Lady Tsunade and that was one of them." Now there was an edge to her voice.
"What's it going to take Mama T? I don't know what to do that will get you to trust me. I've been watched all my life – I expect it but it wasn't every minute of every damn day like now! Is this the way it's going to be from now on? I don't know if I can deal with that. You'd know everything! They're Anbu but I know where they are always and if even if I didn't – Hinata can see them. I may deserve to be treated this way but not Hinata! Nor Sasuke or Sakura or anyone else!" Naruto yelled with frustration.
"And we shouldn't have to put up with everyone knowing what we did!" Hinata shuddered as she thought of all those people in the street smiling and laughing at them. "Nobody should know what happens between me and Naruto! That's so unfair Lady Tsunade!" Hinata added feeling Naruto's sickness and frustration.
"Hey Naruto, I don't know what you guys are talking about but besides us," Iruka said waving at all the people gathered. "Only Sakura and Sasuke know about your use of the Nine-Tail's chakra. The Anbu never gave us any details of anything else that may have happened. We know you were up there with Hinata and that you used Tai Chi to practice control with – that's all." Iruka stepped in front of the couple and explained.
Hinata looked over her shoulder at Naruto and saw a frown to match her own. "Then what was that all about?"
Kakashi spoke up. "Do you mean Ibiki and everybody?" He captured their attention quickly. Kakashi shrugged and grinned. "I met him on my way over here. I don't know what you remember about your rescue Naruto but Ibiki was there too. He's watched you since the first Chunin exams not because he was worried but because he admired your nindo and your absolute faith that you could accomplish anything. It bothered him to see how upside down your life had turned so when he saw you and Hinata happy and kissing and laughing – well he was happy for you and I guess a lot of other ninjas are too. Many said it was good to have the old Naruto back." He bent down to look at Hinata. "Whatever happened is between you and Naruto – promise. Okay?" He smiled gently through his mask.
Naruto saw Hinata nod but he frowned at his sensei. "Really? They don't know anything?" His gaze went from Kakashi to Iruka who both nodded. "They're happy we're happy?" There was some doubt in his voice.
"It's true Naruto." Lord Hiashi added. "While you may have had some bad experiences with the villagers, the ninjas are quite proud of you and all that you've accomplished. They only want one of our best ninjas to be happy. The same goes for you Hinata. You smile now and don't shy away from people anymore. The two of you are quite popular!"
The couple looked at each other in wonder and embarrassment. They weren't sure they liked the idea of so many people watching them.
"So for that at least, you can't blame me." Tsunade said quietly drawing every eye to her. Her breath was coming quickly. "And for your information – it was raining so hard that the Anbu couldn't see everything! That chakra is red and powerful so yes that saw that!" She pushed Iruka out of the way and approached Hinata. "I wasn't there in that forest but I'm his MOTHER and I can worry if I damn well want to! Naruto tried to kill himself! I'll protect him any way I see fit because he's mine!" Light brown eyes stared into lavender ones defying Hinata to say something. The girl did.
"Now that's where you're wrong. Naruto is MINE! You're his mother but I'm going to be his WIFE! His life will be entwined with mine until death and after. That's something you'd better get used to!" Hinata folded her arms in a gesture saying 'top that!'
"Damn, that's one feisty girl." Kakashi said in admiration then backed off quickly as Tsunade shot a look at him.
Naruto's mouth was hanging open a little as he looked from his mother to his fiancé. This was so not how he planned on telling them, not that he'd known how to tell them in the first place.
"Wife?" Tsunade asked looking at Naruto.
He threw back his shoulders. "That's right, I asked Hinata to marry me today and she said yes. I'm not going anywhere Mama. I'm going to marry Hinata and we're going to make our home right here in Konoha. Call off the dogs, I don't need them anymore." Naruto's voice got softer as he approached his mother. "I'm sorry I've disappointed you by not being strong enough. I can't take back what I did; all I can do is move forward. She's my future." He turned and held out a hand to Hinata. "Don't you want to share in my life instead of getting reports about it?"
Tsunade looked at them. Naruto and Hinata. They were a couple, had been before the suicide attempt and they were now but this time maybe because of the pain – they were closer. They would marry.
Hiashi and Iruka glanced each other then at Tsunade wondering what she was going to do. Both of them were extremely pleased to hear this news but Tsunade didn't look too happy.
"You haven't been my son for very long and now I'm losing you to Hinata." Tsunade folded her arms looking forlorn.
"No, Mama!" Naruto took Tsunade in his arms. "It means I've got two women in my life who love me!" He sighed; the last thing he wanted was to hurt her. "Can't you understand? When we want to be alone – we want to be alone!" Naruto looked back at Hinata asking for help.
"…Lady Tsunade, Naruto needs you. Having a parent love you and be proud of you is what every child wishes for. I'm not trying to take away your son but he is more than your son. Naruto's," Hinata smiled. "My love and he has been from almost the moment I first saw him." She blushed.
Naruto looked at her in wonder then down at his mother. "You'll still have me and now you'll have a daughter! Come on Mama T. I'm yours and you're already treating Sasuke like a son – so now you'll have a girl." He looked at her with hope.
Hope. Naruto had hope again and it was because of Hinata. Tsunade hugged him again then held out an arm for Hinata. The three embraced. "If you're not afraid to stand up to me then I guess he picked the right woman to love." A trace of her old humor resurfaced.
"Yes, that she did!" Hiashi said. "I wasn't looking forward to getting between the two of you!" He placed a hand over his heart.
"You! They're deadly – both of them and I was the one they were fighting over!" Naruto exclaimed. "Dad, where were you? I could have used a little help!"
Iruka laughed. "I was here if you needed me. I was just behind you! Better than your sensei." He pointed to Kakashi who was back at the table. He waved at them.
"Kakashi!"
"The coward has the right idea, our food will get cold." Tsunade said and with Naruto at her side went back to her seat. She shook her head as both teens dug into their food. They hadn't eaten much before and with the air cleared were making up for lost time. "I called them off already."
Naruto looked up at her in confusion then his eyes went wide. He couldn't speak since his mouth was full. "YOU DID?" He yelled the moment he could spitting food.
Tsunade eyed him evilly then had to laugh when he gently dabbed at her face breasts. She slapped his hand. "I did. What the Anbu did convey was that you two were close last night and I felt awful that you had been watched especially since you went out of your way to tell me that you were going to be out all night. I'm sorry Hinata, Naruto for invading your privacy like that."
He could only shake his head and cover her hand with his. "Thanks Mama."
She clasped his hand. "You're not being watched by me anymore but, well the guards around the village know to keep an eye out for you. Can you handle that?" Fear crept into her eyes when Naruto stood.
"That's fine. I can handle that." He leaned down and gave her a big kiss on the cheek." As he sat, Naruto glanced at Hinata and wiggled his eyebrows.
"Not at the table!" Iruka complained with a smile.
Lord Hiashi was looking down when he spoke. "Have you returned Naruto's backpack? I think he should have it and its contents now, don't you?" His gaze went from Hinata to Naruto to Iruka.
They all frowned trying to think what he meant…THE CONDOMS!
"Father!" Hinata thought her hair was blushing.
For the second time, Iruka got choked.
Naruto just slid beneath the table.
After that embarrassing moment, somehow dinner got eaten then they settled down with tea or coffee. Sipping her tea, Tsunade broached another topic. "Sweetie about your training, I was thinking you should learn all types of combat. I'd like you to take up archery, the sword and as many forms of martial arts that we can find a master for."
Kakashi looked at her. "What does this mean for my team?"
"It won't affect the team. He'll still train and go on missions with you guys but in order for him to better control the Nine-Tailed's chakra, I think it would do him good to do these other things. It takes great discipline and mastery of self to perform these tasks. It's what you were doing last night with the Tai Chi, right?"
Naruto was thinking then nodding. "Yeah, okay but not too much at one time okay? I've got other obligations." He smiled at Hinata.
"Actually, I'd like to join him if I could? Sasuke too for that matter." Hinata surprised them. "I want to be strong too, is that so surprising?" She looked a little indignant.
"No, not at all. No reason a woman shouldn't be strong and knowledgeable! I'll make it happen Hinata." Tsunade promised. "And it should happen soon. I met with someone before I came here, I think he can help you Naruto. He's not Jiraiya but his own situation should give him some insight as to what you're going through with the fox."
"Really? Tell me!" Naruto scooted forward.
Tsunade shook her head. "Come to my office tomorrow after training and you can meet him then. I'll let him explain."
"Mama!" Naruto complained because his curiosity had been pricked. He ignored the others laughing at him.
"So Naruto, you say you're engaged but my daughter is lacking a ring. Will she be getting one?" Hiashi asked wanting Hinata to have everything.
"No ring Father, at least not for the engagement." She looked to Naruto. "Just a wedding ring. I'm perfectly happy with my engagement present."
"What present?" Iruka and Kakashi asked.
Naruto looked at Iruka. "I hope you don't mind Dad – I gave her our headband." He looked a little apprehensive. That had been something only the two of them shared.
Iruka's smile could have blinded. "Of course I don't mind!" His eyes went to the band around her neck. "It just proves she's family. She already calls me Dad!" He laughed pleased.
"She does doesn't she?" Lord Hiashi questioned and looked at Naruto. "Then you must call me Father." He insisted. "Have you set a date yet?"
"Whoa! Hold on! We just got engaged, Mama's got some new training set up for us and we're just got engaged today! Give us a little time to get things right!"
"Yeah, that's true and then there's planning the wedding and where you guys are going to live. Do you move to the Hyuga estate or get your own place? When do you want to start having babies and making these guys grandparents?" Kakashi suddenly got quiet as the adults glared at him and the teens' looked to be in shock.
"Shut up Sensei! Damn." Naruto looked ready to punch him.
"Cut the language!" Tsunade warned. "And you," She pointed at Kakashi. "You will have some new training as well! The hospital nursery! Hinata when you two are ready – years from now – you'll have a well-trained babysitter in Uncle Kakashi!"
"WHAAAATTTT!!" Kakashi yelled making everyone laugh.
"Are you sure he's still up?" Hinata asked they approached Sasuke's apartment. They'd stayed late at Iruka's but Naruto wanted to share their news with his brother. When they left here, he'd take her home though neither wanted to leave the other but since the embarrassing moments at the dinner table, both thought they should wait until their loving could be a secret.
"Remember that first dinner with…Father? Man that's going to take some getting used to. I still think of him as Lord Hiashi!" Naruto chuckled and pulled her closer. "Anyway he told me to come by afterwards if I needed to talk and I'm sure he was told we were having dinner tonight. Uncle Kakashi and his big mouth probably told him! Besides I'm sure he'd want to know even if we do wake him up." Naruto looked up at the night sky with pleasure. It was hard to believe he'd truly tried to leave all this behind. If for nothing else, he owed the Nine-Tailed Fox for his desire to live.
Hinata didn't mind going to see Sasuke since he'd become a good friend and it meant more time with Naruto. She was wearing his jacket and lifted the collar to smell his scent. A while back she'd made him some shaving cream and the scent blended beautifully with his natural smell. "I don't want to go home. I want to sleep with you Naruto." She stopped him so that she could kiss him.
Naruto framed her face and deepened the kiss. Their tongues battled, each taking control of the kiss making them want more. "I thought you were sexy before now that I know you're going to be mine forever…" Naruto kissed his way down her neck. One hand slid below her waist and pulled her into his erection. "When I do finally get you in bed, we won't leave it for at least two days!" He growled as he cupped her breast and thumbed a nipple.
Hinata leaned into his touch. Her hands traveled his back and over his tight buns. She was so lost him that she forgot where they were until somebody walked by whistling.
"Maybe you guys want to take that off the street - nice to see a couple so in love though!" Genma said around a senbon, laughter evident in his voice.
Hinata eeped and hid herself in Naruto's arms while he pulled her close and looked to see who else was watching. Genma smiled at him over his shoulder but the street was empty. Naruto sighed. "Hinata this is all your fault!" He said roughly. "I just want you too much! Come on baby, let's go see my brother. I need some cold water." Naruto sighed.
Hinata giggled against his chest. "Then he's gone?" She was amazed that they'd forgotten they were out in the street. Just before Genma came by, she was about to slip her hands into Naruto's pants! She peek over his shoulder and laughed. "It's your fault too!" Hinata slapped his chest. "All this muscle and you smell good enough to eat!" Hinata's eyes widened at the lust her words provoked. "Eep!" She said again and raced to Sasuke's door and pounded on it.
"You shouldn't say such things!" Naruto said chasing after her.
Sasuke couldn't stop laughing. The pounding on his door and Hinata asking him for help had made him think there was somebody threatening her but it was only Naruto. She'd hid behind him breathless and giggling at the same time while he'd held Naruto by the shoulders to keep him from jumping her! Now he was in the bathroom with his head under the cold spray of the faucet while Hinata drank cold water and told him about dinner.
"You guys are too much! Wish I could have seen your faces." Sasuke crossed his legs. "The Anbu were so embarrassed when they gave their report!" He eyed Hinata and wondered. She looked more womanly tonight than she had the night before. "You guys didn't…you know, up there did you?"
"And if we did?" Naruto asked as he walked out of the bathroom a towel around his neck. "Don't be so nosy Sasuke or I'll be all in your business when you and Sakura finally hook up!" He grinned at his brother as he got some water for himself then sat far away from Hinata.
"Don't start that! Hinata already brought that up while you were gone and I'm nowhere ready to think about that. You're home and all this new stuff happening with training – I don't have time to think about girls!" Sasuke huffed and now crossed his arms.
Hinata laughed and brought her feet up onto the sofa. "I've warned him, that Sakura might not wait for him especially since Lee is so in love with her but he refused to listen to me."
Naruto's mouth dropped open then closed in a smile. "Well yeah, he has liked her since the moment he first saw her. Bushy Brow, huh?" He rubbed his chin. "I've always seen the two of you together – well since I gave up on her! – but they could definitely be a couple." Eyes gleaming, Naruto leaned forward. "Sakura really loves you, you sure you don't want her? Even for sex?"
"Naruto!" Hinata said surprised.
"What? He's a guy and us guys get horny! Look at what you did to me!" He got up and went to Sasuke. "Come on; don't tell me you've never looked at her that way!" Naruto eyed him knowingly then laughed as Sasuke's cheeks got red. "Told you!" He said to Hinata.
"Can we get off this subject please?" Sasuke said getting up to get his own glass of water.
"Men! Don't you dare use Sakura for just sex!" Hinata warned him.
"Don't worry sweetheart, that's my sis and he won't do that while I'm around but there's plenty of other girls who want him (always has been) we'll find you one you can get on with or find you a real girlfriend. Nothing like the real thing." Naruto smiled at Hinata.
"I don't need any help with girls!" When they both looked pityingly at him, Sasuke threw up his hands. "What about this guy you're supposed to meet tomorrow?"
Naruto chuckled and joined Hinata on the couch but at the opposite end. But it seemed he couldn't resist touching her and stroked one of her bare feet. "I don't know, she wouldn't tell me a thing. Kakashi-sensei didn't know anything either and if Dad knows, he's not saying." He grew thoughtful as he looked out into the night. "She said to think of him as someone like Pervy Sage. Now either that means he's another pervert or he's got some knowledge or jutsu that can help me control the fox." Naruto looked back at Sasuke and shrugged. "I just hope he can help. Last night was just a baby step; I need to take bigger steps." He took a sip of his water. "The bigger the step then the more power I have to protect my family."
Sasuke and Hinata looked at each other. He sounded so grave and determined that they knew he'd accomplish what he said he would and the two of them would be there at his side every step of the way.
Kakashi was waiting on his team for a change the next morning. "We've got a mission."
"Mission? What about that guy I was supposed to meet? Will he be here when we get back? Does Hinata know?" Naruto was excited to be going out, apprehensive about missing his meeting and concerned about worrying Hinata.
"He'll wait. Lady Tsunade will tell your fiancé, don't worry. Let's get going. I'll tell you the details on the way." Kakashi said and took to the trees.
"FIANCE!" Sasuke and Sakura yelled.
"How did you forget to tell me this last night?" Sasuke managed to hit Naruto in the head as the jumped into the same tree.
"What about me? You could have told me?" Sakura gave him the evil eye which had Naruto staying close to Kakashi.
"You know what happened last night! It slipped my mind!" Naruto groused at Sasuke then shrugged at Sakura. She still lived at home and was probably already sleep when he and Hinata had gone to Sasuke's.
At Sasuke's bark of laughter, Kakashi and Sakura wondered what the heck happened but now was not the time to ask. They had work to do.
"Lady Tsunade received a message about there being bandits attacking travelers. A group of merchants and a couple of families have been trapped in a nearby town. Possibly the town is under siege by now. The messenger they sent asking for help just happened to be quick enough to escape but he's going to laid up for a while since they hunted him all the way to our border. The man was running on nothing but fear and if it hadn't been for note he carried we wouldn't have known what was going on." Kakashi was impressed the man had survived at all.
"So it's just a group of bandits? Not much of a challenge for us." Sakura commented.
"Maybe not but we won't know until we get there." Kakashi said looking at Naruto. "You going to be okay?" He looked a little pale.
Naruto jerked his gaze to Kakashi then swallowed loudly. "Yeah, I'm fine. This time…this time I won't fail." His eyes became shadowed, his face and body hard.
Kakashi looked to the rest of his team and they nodded. Neither would they fail in keeping their brother safe.
The morning flew by as they traveled in silence. It was early afternoon when they crouched down outside of a small town. On the way there, they'd come across several bodies, some of them children. The shinobi of Konoha were all deadly angry. Stealing was one thing but killing for the fun of it was something else and what threat was a child?
"Scout the surroundings." Kakashi grabbed Naruto's black jacket. "Do nothing. You hear me?" He was worried that Naruto would attack the first bandit he saw.
Naruto stared at him then nodded. "Understood." He put his hand over Kakashi's. It was steady.
"Here in fifteen. Go!" They dispersed.
It was a small town but it was crowded with buildings, homes and shops. There were several side streets and generally way too many places to hide. It appeared that quite a few people lived there but strangely there were only a few people walking about and those who were looked scared.
Kakashi noticed there were no kids out playing and the school looked deserted. Sakura saw many businesses open but only the owners were inside staring out with wide eyes. Sasuke noted that the town hall and jail were full of people but they weren't working or planning anything but appeared to be huddled together in fear. Naruto saw many empty homes and a caravan that had been stripped and wrecked on a side street. He was about to head back when the cry of a child caught his attention. He followed the sound to a two story home. Silently he slipped inside an upstairs window. Naruto slipped down the stairs and peered inside the family room.
"Just keep quiet and I won't have to kill your baby! You hear me? We know there are ninjas coming. They'll come into town see everything's fine then when they try to leave, we ambush them! Damn merchants sending for ninjas. You just keep that other brat quiet and I'll hold on to the little one here. When this is all over – you'll get him back and your husband can come home." He was tall. Shaggy hair about his head and weapons strapped to his body from shoulder to waist. In his arm was a baby of maybe nine months. In his other hand was a meat cleaver. Across the room sitting in a chair was the mother her face wet with tears. A little girl of four too scared to cry sat in her lap and watched the big man threaten her baby brother.
Naruto's fist clenched in anger. He wanted nothing more that to beat that bastard's face in but he promised Kakashi that he wouldn't do anything. Taking a deep breath he promised himself that he'd be the one to help this family. Closing his blue eyes Naruto calmed his heart then turned his back on the family in need.
Everyone was waiting for him with tense expressions. "Sorry I'm late but I've got some information I think will come in handy." Naruto landed next to them, the light of battle in his eyes.
Kakashi lead with the three Chunin walking next to each other behind him. None of them looked particularly strong or like good fighters, just a man and three teens despite the leaf headbands. Many of the townspeople's faces dropped when they saw them.
"Excuse me, we got word there was trouble here but everything seems quiet. Did we get here too late?" Kakashi smiled and rubbed the back of his head as he approached a man coming out of the town hall.
"Oh the ninjas from the Hidden Leaf! Yes, yes, it's all over now! I'm Sato, the mayor of our little town." The man was short and round with a balding head. He smiled really hard and wiped away some of the sweat forming on his shiny plate. "Sorry you came all this way for nothing!" He fumbled in his sleeve for a money purse. "Here let me pay you for your trouble and you can be on your way home. The man's hands trembled so badly he juggled the purse for a whole minute before it rested on his shaky palm.
"So the bandits just up and left?" Sakura asked innocently. "We can stick around for a few days and take care any who might come back." She blinked at him.
"NO! I mean no thank you. They ran scared when they heard you were coming." He laughed harshly. "Please take the money and go."
"Looks like our job is done!" Kakashi snatched up the purse. "Let's have lunch before heading back." He waved the money at them and grinned.
"Yeah." He looked bored but Sasuke quickly agreed.
"Sure Sensei!" Naruto said smiling and the four of them tried to walk towards a restaurant but Sato ran to cut them off.
"Sorry but all the restaurants and businesses have closed. It was a scary time for a while there and everybody just closed up shop and went home. Guess you'll have to leave, sorry." He bowed several times throwing sweat into the street.
"No food! Man we come all this way and you can't even give us a meal!" Naruto complained jerking the man up.
"Naruto." Kakashi shook his head. "Let's go. These people don't owe us a thing especially since we didn't do anything. I'll take you someplace nice when we get home. Goodbye Sato-san." Kakashi bowed.
Naruto huffed, let the man go and joined the ever silent Sasuke while Sakura bowed and apologized for him then ran to join her team. The four walked out of the quiet town slowly, talking some. The attack came just a few miles outside of town.
Kakashi was speaking when he lost his head. Sakura's legs were cut off at the knees. Sasuke turned to fight and received and ax in the chest and Naruto was embedded with knives from head to thigh.
There was cheering from the trees and laughing as the ninjas fell to the bandit's attack. That is until all the bodies blinked away leaving only weapons behind.
"Aww Shit! It's a ninja trick! RUN!" Someone called out but it was too late, by attacking they had revealed their hiding places. Of course the smell gave them away too. For some reasons, bandits preferred not bathing.
The bandits numbered close to thirty but it only took four ninjas fifteen minutes to take care of them. Running, jumping and spinning in mid-air they knocked out, tied up, pinned and killed the men. Naruto dropped to the ground blue eyes searching for one man in particular but he was not among the prisoners.
"Kakashi, this isn't all of them. There are more hiding in the town." Naruto informed him.
"Yes but how many?" Kakashi looked at the men. "Give me a few minutes with one of them. We don't want to endanger any of the townspeople if we can help it." He jerked up one of them men and went deeper into the forest.
The three Chunins were curious as to what their sensei was up to but didn't follow. They secured their prisoners and waited.
High up in a tree a man watched the team work with a special eye on Naruto.
Kakashi returned alone. "Naruto we'll need more of your clones. I think I got the truth out of him but just in case, I want your clones checking all the other public buildings. It seems they have most of the town and visitors holed up the larger buildings and a few more in homes like the one you checked out. All right, let's save these people." They huddled around him and divided up the town.
"It's been an almost an hour. Do you really think that they're dead? I mean, they're ninjas! What if…?"
"They'll be back. I'm sure of it. We just have to be patient. They won't leave us to the mercy of these bastards."
"But they took the money and left. We all saw that!"
"And if they'd acted without thinking, we'd all be dead now. As it is, most of them left to follow after them. Maybe we can take these few that are left."
Everyone looked at each other and wondered if that was possible. Before any plans could be formed a man slipped inside the window. He was tall, had silver hair with one eye covered.
"Where?" He whispered of the hostages.
"Two downstairs and one on the roof." The first man said quickly.
Kakashi nodded. "Already got that one. Stay here and don't move until I say so!" Not waiting for confirmation, he slipped silently down the stairs.
The man and boy who had been talking smiled at each other with relief.
Sasuke and Sakura went east and west of the town respectively leaving the south for Naruto where most of the homes were. He'd requested it specifically. His clones, if they couldn't find any bad guys warned the townspeople to stay put until they received the all clear then join his teammates or himself in clearing the other buildings.
The cleanup went well for the team and Naruto just threw the next to last bum hogtied into the street. Now there was only one left. He'd saved that house for last. Naruto knocked on the front door then entered. He nodded at the woman and her little girl the turned icy eyes on the man and screaming baby. "It's over. Give her the baby and give up."
The baby's cries were heartrending. It waved and kicked its arms and legs wanting nothing than its mother or someone who wasn't squeezing him so hard.
"You're lying kid! No way you and your pals got all of us!" He laughed but there wasn't much humor in it.
"Really? Come outside then. See the truth for yourself. Stay inside." Naruto told the mother then slowly backed out of the house.
"Where you going? Come back here! I've still got this kid you know!" The bandit hollered after Naruto but couldn't resist following him. He stopped in the doorway, his mouth dropping open.
His partners in crime, those that had been hiding out in other houses were bruised and beaten, tied up in the street. People stood around them jeering and kicking the bandits but they grew quiet at the crying baby. Curious they turned to see what Naruto would do.
"Hand me the baby." Naruto said evenly. His eyes were locked onto the bandit's.
The meat cleaver shook in his hand as he looked at the teen. He jerked his eyes away looking for other ninjas but the only one he saw was the blond teen. "I don't think so. This kid is my ticket out of here. You got them but I was smart enough to take a hostage." He smiled now. "You can't do a damn thing as long as I've got this screamer!" The bandit started to back away down the street.
Naruto shook his head and dropped eyes for a moment. "I asked you nicely. You see your friends lying in the street and you still think you can get away?!" His voice went stone cold and as sharp as a knife. "You son-of-a-bitch!"
He paused at Naruto's anger but a nervous smile trembled to life and he brought the baby in front of his chest. "Stay back unless you want this baby in pieces!" His smiled fell as Naruto walked forward.
"Dammit!" The bandit turned to run and received a kunai in his triceps, the one holding the baby. The little boy slipped out of the man's grasp.
The crowd watched in horror as the baby fell but at the last second another blond ninja scooped him up. They blinked at seeing another ninja identical to the first.
The Naruto-clone held the baby lightly and comforted it and that quickly it stopped crying and hiccupped as it watched two vivid blue eyes. "Hey baby. You're okay now." He gently brought the baby to his shoulder and soothed it as he watched himself take out the bandit.
Naruto threw another kunai and watched the cleaver hit the ground. He smiled coldly at the scream of pain. "Problem?"
"Bastard!" With a grunt of pain he pulled out the knives and hands covered in his own blood threw them back at Naruto.
He deflected them easily with another kunai. "Maybe so but I win." Naruto ran the last few steps and jumped up. His fist connected with the man's jaw sending him flying. Landing Naruto followed the body. He hadn't hit him too hard wanting to draw this out a bit.
Sasuke showed up and went to the clone who now held a drowsy infant. "Practice?" He asked with a smile then looked at the real McCoy. "Is that the jerk?"
"Yeah. He's going to fuck him up some I think. Oh, sorry baby!" Naruto-clone looked down at the little one who only yawned and held on tight to Naruto's finger.
"Some man you are! Using a baby as a shield!" Naruto brought the man's nose into contact with his knee when the bandit tried to stand. He stomped down the man's hand breaking all the bones in it. "You won't be using this hand against anyone else!"
"No kid...is going to...beat me!" The bandit rolled over then threw some dirt into Naruto's face. Holding his broken hand against his stomach he jammed his shoulder into Naruto's middle then slammed him into a wall. He laughed to feel Naruto's blood on his back as it flew out of his mouth.
He had trouble breathing for a few seconds but just a few. The bandit would always wonder how he'd been beaten so damn easily. Naruto pressed his feet against the wall and pushed with all his might. The bandit stumbled back. Naruto lifted himself onto the man's shoulders then dropped backwards pulling the bandit with him. Once the bandit was up, Naruto kicked him in the stomach and into the air before he could touch the ground. Thinking the bastard wasn't up high enough, Naruto kicked him up once more. "You've just been beaten not by a kid but by a teenager!" Naruto hollered as he rode the body down punching the man in the face and chest. He jumped off just before impact.
Sasuke and clone walked over to meet him. "Nice work. As angry as you were, I thought you might kill him." All three ignored the awestruck crowd.
"Hmph, I wanted to!" Naruto took the now sleeping baby from his clone. "Thanks." He said before it disappeared. "Let's get you home to your mama. I guess he's been crying so hard, he tired himself out." Naruto said patting the baby's bottom.
"When did you get so good with babies?" Sasuke asked then looked up in surprised as people suddenly began to cheer.
Naruto wiped the blood from his mouth and ignored the crowd as he saw the mother and little girl running his way. "He's okay, here you go." He held out the baby as the mother approached. She took him carefully then fell to her knees crying. He watched them with a sad smile remembering no one had held him like that but then he felt a tug on his pants leg. It was the little girl.
"Tank yoo." She said and held up her arms.
"Wait till Hinata hears this. A readymade daddy!" Sasuke teased as Naruto picked up the girl.
"You always had a soft spot for the kids. It's good to see you again Naruto." Koji said a few feet behind them.
Naruto's head jerked around to see Koji. Sasuke and the little girl stared as a world of happiness and pain could be seen in Naruto's eyes. All shades of blue from the brightest sky to the darkest sea went by in seconds. He took a shuddering breath and closed his eyes.
"Naruto?" Sasuke put a hand on his shoulder. He looked at the man, no teen but didn't sense any threat from him. In fact he looked hurt by Naruto's reaction.
"Smile." The little girl placed a hand on his cheek and implored Naruto.
It was that gentle touch that had him doing what she wanted. "How's that?" He looked into her little face and she hugged his neck.
"Yumi! Yumi!" A man ran forward reaching for the girl.
"Daddy!" Yumi's head jerked around and her face lit up. She gave Naruto one last smile before scrambling out of his arms and jumping into her daddy's.
Naruto watched as the family was reunited then turned back to his friends. "Hey Koji." He blinked then stepped forward. "Are you okay? Are you alone? Where's…?" But no sooner than the thought occurred to him that the giant who was Koji's father appeared.
"Damn." Sasuke said and that got a smile out of Naruto.
"So there you are Koji! You shouldn't have run off like that." The tall man moved to one side and saw Naruto. "NARUTO!!" Satoshi yelled and moved to pick him up but Sasuke blocked him.
Jet black eyes looked at Naruto who still seemed apprehensive about the two extra tall men. "You okay? Are they okay?" Sasuke looked back at them ready to protect Naruto.
"Naruto!" Sakura ran forward seeing Sasuke standing protectively in front of Naruto. She was quick to step in front of Sasuke adding another layer of protection.
"Is there a problem?" Kakashi asked quietly just behind Koji and Satoshi.
"They're okay! I know them! It was…a surprise that's all." Naruto moved to stand between Sasuke and Sakura. "This is Koji and his father Satoshi. I met them while I was on vacation with Dad before…before Kabuto. They were really good friends to me, Dad and Pervy Sage."
Sasuke relaxed but he thought he understood what Naruto was going through now. He pushed Naruto back a few steps as Sakura and Kakashi went to introduce themselves.
Naruto gripped his forearm and stared at Sasuke's black shirt. "It all came back. The chase, Kabuto, losing Dad – all of it!" He whispered harshly. "It's not Koji's fault but seeing him – them…" Naruto wanted to run and hide but knew he couldn't. He just held on to Sasuke.
"It's not your fault either. Iruka is home waiting on you. What happened with Kabuto and the rest is over! We're here for you Naruto – Sakura, Kakashi and me. You don't have to see them or talk to them until you're ready okay?" Sasuke waited until Naruto lifted his chin. "We stand as brothers right?" There was a half smile on his face.
Naruto looked at Sasuke then at Sakura and Kakashi preventing Koji from getting to him and sighed. "Sorry…I was just surprised. I wasn't expecting to see him or what happened when I did see him!" He shook his head. "I'll be okay and yeah – brothers." Naruto squeezed his arm one more time before releasing him. He took several breaths then went to Sakura and put an arm around her waist. "I didn't introduce you guys, sorry."
"That's okay, we figured out who they were." Her eyes searched his face. "Iruka-sensei told us about them…when you were…in the hospital." She reached up to wipe some blood from his face.
His arm jerked as more memories came back but he nodded. "I'm okay but check Sasuke, he's bleeding." Naruto didn't know how he'd noticed that when he'd been trying to hold onto his sanity.
"Sasuke!" Sakura turned quickly.
"Just some scratches. It happens when you jump through windows." He submitted to her hands running over his face and arms but Sasuke kept an eye on Naruto afraid he just might take off.
Kakashi took Sakura's place and clamped a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "It seems your friends were traveling with the merchants on their way to visit you and Iruka. They'll be staying in Konoha a while. You'll have plenty of time to get to know each other again." He looked down at Naruto who smiled with a pained expression. The boy was tense beneath his hand. Kakashi looked to Satoshi. "Umm, maybe you can hook up with Naruto later because we're still on the clock here. Got to get these prisoners locked up and do another check of the surroundings before nightfall. You guys should go back to your hotel and rest." A look passed between the men, one asking for understanding and the other giving it.
Koji frowned hard at his friend. "Naruto?" What's going on with him?
Satoshi put a hand on Koji's shoulder. "He has work Koji. He and his friends just saved our lives. Come on, your mother's probably worried." He looked down at Naruto and wondered at the pain. "We'll see you later and we're glad you're okay." He nodded and pulled Koji after him.
Naruto heaved a sigh. "They must think I'm a jerk! Kakashi they were so good to me and Dad but seeing them…"
Kakashi looped and arm around his neck. "It's okay Koji's dad got it even if Koji doesn't understand. It'll be okay, you just need some time. After all the last time you saw them your world was still kind of normal. Naruto just remember all the good going on now. The new training, your friends – Hinata." He tousled blond hair.
"All done. Be more careful Sasuke!" Sakura chided and looked Kakashi over who wasn't even dirty. "You okay now Naruto?" Her voice softened.
"No but I will be." His smile was more genuine. "Put me to work Sensei – please!" Naruto playfully gripped his vest and had them all laughing.
It was an easy request to fill. The bandits needed to be locked up in the small jail. Buildings had been damaged and the ninjas were happy to help clean up and make minor repairs. They slipped into the forest just as night was falling and searched two miles out for any bandits who might be hiding nearby.
Kakashi was glad to see the Konoha messenger bird fly towards the town and whistled to get its attention. The Hokage wanted a status report and Kakashi wanted some men to come and take charge of the prisoners. It was too large of a group to be held in the little town and too large for them to keep an eye on and protect the villagers at the same time. He would propose that he and his team wait for help and everyone head to Konoha together. After a moment, he also thought he should include a quick note on what was happening with Naruto.
He kept the bird with him while he searched giving it a chance to rest and hunt. When he got back to the town the bird was still on his shoulder. "Anything?" Kakashi asked his team but they'd found nothing either. "Good. Listen, it's too dangerous to leave those men in the jail while we escort the merchants and others to Konoha so we're going to wait for some help and take everyone out at the same time. We'll have an early dinner then split up to stand watch. Me and Naruto. Sasuke you and Sakura will take first watch. That okay with you Naruto?"
Naruto started as they all watched him. "Since when do I decide things?" He asked with a smile. "Okay I'm still a little freaked but we're working – I'll be okay. Send him back and stop worrying." Naruto approached the bird and stroked its soft feathers. "Let Mama T, Dad and Hinata know I'm doing fine." He said to the bird as if it could understand him.
Kakashi let him hold the bird who affectionately nipped at Naruto's fingers as he coded a message then tied it to the bird's leg. In moments with a cry of goodbye, they watched it soar into the night. "Let's find some food." Kakashi gathered his team and headed for a restaurant.
They ate for free. The town was so happy that they gave the ninjas whatever they asked for. Full of good food they parted at the hotel. Sasuke and Sakura to watch over the prisoners and Kakashi and Naruto to get some sleep. As it happened, it was the same place Koji and his family was staying.
Many of the hotel's occupants were in the lobby and dining area still talking about all that had happened to them. Some stood as the two ninjas entered and clapped. Both smiled and bowed but moved purposely towards the stairs but one small woman walked over and held out a hand to stop them. She was tiny and stood at barely five feet but she was incredibly beautiful and her smile could break your heart. Standing before Naruto she studied him and nodded to herself.
"Come here." Oriana commanded and opened her arms for Naruto.
He hesitated only a moment then bent down so the tiny woman could wrap her arms around his neck. She didn't say much, probably couldn't with such a boisterous husband but she was clearly the one in charge. Oriana had seen such depth in Naruto's eyes, even more than had been there before. Whatever had happened to him after he'd been forced to leave them had left a deep scar in Naruto. She would love him as she did Koji and perhaps they would become close again for she'd already come to think of him as family.
Oriana laughed softly as he picked her up while continuing the hug. It was what her own men did. She kissed his cheek. "We won't ask any questions but we're here for you Naruto." At his tremor she stroked his head and just held him.
Naruto held her tenderly and was grateful for her understanding. Finally he put her down. "Thanks Oriana. When we get home, we'll talk okay? I've got work now." He looked back at Kakashi who waited patiently for him.
"Of course." She patted his chest. "Go get some rest and Naruto, thank you. Thank you both." Oriana was referring to their rescue. She bowed before them then with a smile returned to her family.
"Come on kid." Kakashi said led the way upstairs.
When it was their turn, Kakashi took the inside while Naruto was up on the roof. Thinking was a good time to practice; he called up a small amount of the fox's chakra and went through several fighting stances. Things were going well when there was a shout from inside and then a small explosion rocked the night and almost knocked him down.
"Prison break!" Kakashi yelled moving his hands quickly as he slapped seals against the remaining prison cells. "Naruto - after them!" He would follow but first he wanted to be sure no one else had explosives or other hidden weapons. Kakashi lifted his headband and checked over the others with his Sharingan.
He didn't have to be told and was already calling up his clones. One went to get Sasuke and Sakura while he took the others after the ten or so that had escaped. Naruto didn't even realize that he was still using the fox's chakra. His clones were stronger and not so easily gotten rid of.
Sharingan activated, Sasuke searched the woods. One bandit jumped up out of the shadow of a rock and he responded so instantaneously that the man died for the effort, a kunai in his throat. The next was easily captured before he saw Naruto and gasped. "You're using that chakra?" He asked the night and hurried after Naruto.
Sakura threw some pellets and smiled to see the smoke surround two more bandits. They fell unconscious to the ground. She tied them up and dragged them back towards the jail when she saw Sasuke run intently in the opposite direction. He looked worried and she got a bad feeling that only worsened as Kakashi yelled at her to leave the bodies and follow him.
Some of the townspeople had also volunteered to watch the prisoners and had taken up positions inside and outside the jail. One had been knocked flat when the wall exploded behind jail. Most of the bandits had just jumped over the body, all but one. He scooped up the man and threw him over his shoulder. One hand was bandaged but he held onto the body with all his strength despite the pain. Once he looked back surprised to see only two of his friends left. The others had been caught already. "Not me."
As he spoke the words, the other two cried out as shuriken riddled their legs effectively stopping them. The bandit picked up his knees and tried to run faster. A voice in the night caused shaft a fear to spear his stomach.
"It's you – again." Naruto's voice was little more than a growl. "I guess I should have crushed your other hand as well as both legs!" He leapt closer, hiding in the trees. "I'll show you no mercy this time. This time you die." It was as if his voice was bouncing off of every solid object and back at the bandit.
"Ahhhh! Leave me the hell alone!" The bandit screamed. Skidding he bent down and picked up several rocks and threw them around hoping to get lucky. He smiled when he heard one hit.
"Ouch, you hit me." Naruto laughed gutturally. "Now I get to return the favor!" He dropped to the ground almost unseen then the starlight lit his blond locks.
"Wh-what the hell are you?!" It was the same boy from before but not. Red, glowing eyes and whiskers seemed to be all he could see. "Stay away from me!" He stumbled backwards, fell over a broken limb, and leapt up with the stick in one hand his hostage in the other.
"No." Naruto growled and walked forward. He stopped the stick with one hand and crushed it. He snatched away the limp body over the bandit's shoulder and dropped him on the ground. "NOW FACE ME LIKE A REAL MAN!" Only Naruto didn't give him a chance. With his left hand he grasped the man by the neck and lifted him off his feet.
Sasuke landed right behind Naruto who didn't move only squeezed the man's throat and smiled. "Come to watch?"
"You caught him Naruto now let him go." Sasuke said softly. Naruto hadn't released too much of the chakra but he didn't necessarily seem like himself either.
"I will – when he's dead." Naruto laughed as the man's mouth opened and his tongue flapped about.
"Let him go now Naruto!" Kakashi shouted at him. "You captured him, there's no reason to kill him!"
"Of course there is! He's a leech, a parasite and he hides behind others! Nothing more worthless in the world!" Naruto shook the man when he tried kicking.
Sakura was scared. It wasn't that he could kill the man but that he wanted to so badly. "Naruto – Hinata wouldn't want you to do this!" She inched forward and dared to touch him.
Sasuke's heart thumped. That's it! "The storm! Remember the storm – Your storm Naruto! Remember your storm!" He shouted in Naruto's ear.
Storm. My storm. Hinata and my storm. It came back. The happiness and how free he felt up there with her. And for a few moments his control of the fox. Dammit! Damn you! I WILL NOT LOSE TO YOU!
Naruto closed his eyes and pushed it back. He forced back the chakra and the mental influence of the Nine-Tailed Fox. He felt the bloodlust leave him and realized that it had never been his desire to kill this man. Breathing deeply he released his grip then stumbled backwards as his body and mind was his own again. "It wasn't…me! I didn't want…to kill…" Naruto clutched at Sasuke and looked desperately at him then Sakura. "Please…" He didn't know what he'd do if they didn't believe him.
"It's okay Naruto. I know. I believe you!" Sasuke said as he draped Naruto's arm over his shoulder. He did believe him. The red chakra had flowed intensely inside Naruto's head. The fox had taken over or had been exerting some kind of power over Naruto's thoughts.
Kakashi sighed. He'd been aware that Naruto was using the chakra but had not expected things to go so out of control when the prisoners escaped. He saw Sakura wipe away the sweat on Naruto's face and give him a quick hug. As he moved forward to join them the bandit attacked.
"You are a fool!" Kakashi said he implanted a kunai in one of the man's eyes before he could reach his kids. "Give him to me." He turned and got down on one knee before Sasuke. "I'll take him back to the hotel. You guys get the jail secured and I'll be there as quick as I can."
"You're going to leave him alone?" Sakura asked disbelieving. She didn't believe the fox would take control again but didn't think they should just leave him to dwell on it all by himself either. "Let's take him with us."
Sasuke thought the same thing although he moved a dazed Naruto in position for Kakashi to carry him piggyback.
"He won't be alone. We're not the only friends Naruto has here." He felt Naruto grip his shoulders hard and hid face against his neck. "Go, I'll be there as soon as I get him settled." Kakashi ordered and watched them reluctantly leave.
Running lightly he carried Naruto back to the hotel. "You didn't kill him Naruto. We were able to bring you back." He felt Naruto shake his head.
"It was only a small amount and it still took control!" Naruto whispered as doubts assaulted him and his future seemed to be full of darkness.
Kakashi didn't know what to say and sped up. Naruto needed some rest and some simple caring and from what he saw earlier. Oriana could give him that in spades.
The watcher was thoughtful. The boy was still young and had lots to learn yet. That slipup could be detrimental to the boy's mind and willpower. He wondered if and how long it would take the Bearer of the Fox to realize what had happened to him and if he was strong enough to stand up to the fox. "You're a very interesting person Uzumaki Naruto. I can't wait to meet you." He pulled his hood closer to his face and vanished into the night.