A/N: Hello everyone. As you know or have guessed, I'm introducing a new OC. My new friend Leaf Ranger is my inspiration. He's relatively new to the site but both his stories are doing extremely well and yes, I really like them too! Anyway, in his first story Rebirth of Legends, he has a character called Arashen who helped Naruto train and become a better ninja. My character will do something very similar. It's not the same character but really close. I hope you'll like this new OC and I encourage you to read Rebirth of Legends and Fox Knight by Leaf Ranger - he's got talent!
Common Bonds
When Sasuke entered their room, he found Naruto asleep with his head on some woman's lap. She had been dozing but jerked awake when Sasuke got close to the bed. She smiled at him. "Hello, I'm Oriana. I'm Koji's mother. Your sensei asked if I would sit with Naruto for a while. And you are?"
Sasuke blinked at that smile then returned it. "His brother, Uchiha Sasuke." He moved to sit on the other bed.
She tilted her head, "Brother? Oh, you adopted each other like he and Iruka did right?" The boys looked nothing alike and had different names.
"Yeah, I guess we did." He gestured to Naruto. "How's he doing?" The smile disappeared.
Oriana stroked Naruto's head. "He's fine. Something brought him low but I reminded him of all the things he accomplished when he was with us and how he rescued that baby. He's still a little unsure of himself but he went to sleep with a smile. I thought I'd stay until one of you came back. What?" She asked at his surprised face.
"He's okay? Man, you must be good." Sasuke chuckled. He never thought Naruto would snap back this quickly. "Thanks. Really, thanks a lot."
She studied him for a moment. "Naruto's had a really rough time hasn't he? When he was with us there were times when he looked sad but now he…he feels different. I'd like to know what happened but I'm scared to ask."
"Well part of that was my fault but we're good now and the rest," Sasuke shook his head. "That's up to him – if he wants you to know. Naruto is different and we're all still getting used to the new him but we're just happy he's alive." Sasuke thought maybe he'd said too much but it was too late now to take it back.
Oriana's eyes widened then understanding crossed her face. Looking down at Naruto she traced a finger over features lightly. "Naruto…thank you for surviving." Oriana brought her hand to her lips then pressed her fingers to his forehead. "Do you mind if I stay until he wakes?" She looked over at Sasuke. "I'll be quiet if you want to rest."
Sasuke shrugged. "Won't you be uncomfortable?" She was sitting up leaning against headboard.
"I'm a mother. I've spent many uncomfortable nights nursing Koji." Oriana looked back at Naruto. "His mother isn't here so I'd like to fill in for just a little while."
"She'd appreciate that." Sasuke stood and went to shake the lady's hand. "Thanks. I'm heading back. I just wanted to check on him. Let him know everything's fine if he wakes up." Sasuke looked at Naruto sleeping and shook his head. "You always luck out don't you Bro?" Chuckling he went to the door, waved at Oriana and went back to work.
Sunrise was still an hour or two away when Naruto woke. There was a hand on his head and he was lying on someone's lap. It was nice but he knew immediately that it wasn't Hinata or Mama T. Carefully he raised his head and turned to see who held him.
Oriana! And it all came back to him. Moving as only a ninja can, Naruto got up without waking her. Gently he lifted her tiny body and made her more comfortable in the bed then covered her with the sheet. She looked like a doll there in the bed and he wondered not for the first time how she and Satoshi had gotten together with her so small and him so tall. Still smiling, Naruto went to go take a shower.
They don't call you a demon for nothing do they? Naruto pressed a hand against his wet abs. You didn't like me using your chakra that night of the storm did you? I think you finally realized that someday soon we would be one and you fought back. You're strong, I know but I will win! Naruto washed his hair. I'm just a kid, an ordinary kid but with you – I'm strong. I can do things people only dream about. You may not like your fate fox but now I realize I want you. I want your power and I'm going to do good with it! He stood beneath the spray to let the water wash away the suds. People care about me! I'm important to them and with you; I can take care of them. You had a bad reputation when you were free; well I'm going to give you a good one! Fight me and I'll fight back but I will win. Battle or war, it will be me with the victory!
Feeling like a new man, Naruto finished his shower and dressed. He hadn't been there to help his team last night and it was time to make up for that. Silently he opened the door only to find Oriana staring at him. "I'm sorry; I wanted you to get some sleep. The water must have woken you." He moved to the bed and got down on his knees next to it.
Oriana's almond eyes studied him. This was not the hurt boy of last night but a man on a mission. She smiled then leaned forward to kiss his cheek. "You're a ninja. I can see that now. Whatever happened last night, you put it aside. Good for you."
Naruto took her hand. "You help me to do it." He looked down. "I tried to kill myself soon after I left you guys." Naruto dropped his bomb on her. "For many reasons, life had gotten too hard…but I was saved." He looked back at her, eyes wide and earnest. "My family needs me and I – I don't have a life without them. I'm engaged now. Just the other day!" Naruto laughed. "It's hard, living but with Hinata it's easy and things are going well with Dad and Sasuke – he's my brother. Things are a little rough with Ma but getting better." Naruto looked into her eyes. "There's lots more going on that I have to deal with and I kind of fuc – uh, messed up last night but talking to you helped a lot! What I've got to do won't be easy – not at all easy but I've got to and that's that!"
Oriana looked at the man before her. It was hard to think of him as just a boy anymore. "Who were you when you were with us?"
He looked embarrassed. "I was a guy with no responsibilities, no expectations and no hate. I got to be normal for a while and all I can say is thanks! I suppose things will be different between me and Koji now 'cause that guy he knew wasn't the real me. I know I acted weird yesterday towards him but seeing him…well along with the good, I remembered everything bad. I'll apologize to him."
"It may take him a little while but I'm sure Koji will understand. May I tell him what you've said?" Oriana finally sat up and pushed her long hair out of her face. Koji would be hurt to know that his Naruto had never been but things for her son hadn't been easy either. Koji would want to know the real Naruto, she was sure.
Naruto paused. "…Yeah. I disappointed a lot of people with what I did and it's hard to look them in the eye but you guys need to know who I am so we can still be friends. Do you think we can be friends?" He asked quietly.
"We never stopped being friends Naruto. This person before me is new, yes a very different man but the face is the same and I still see some of the boy I knew. I'll look forward to getting to know you for real this time."
Naruto hugged her and she laughed at his enthusiasm. "I'd like to talk some more but I need to go relieve my team. I promised myself I wouldn't fail them and I need to keep that promise. You stay and get your rest." He stood and tried to get her settled into the bed but she slapped at his hand playfully.
"Thank you but you can walk me back to my room before you go." Oriana scooted out of the bed then wound her hair up on top of her head. "Oh, your brother stopped by to check on you. He said things were fine at the jail. He seems like a very nice young man." She made the bed then took Naruto's arm. "Make sure you eat something. I'm sure your appetite hasn't changed!"
"Sasuke? He can be." Naruto nodded his expression showed his fondness for his brother. "Yes ma'am and no it hasn't!" Naruto said with a quiet laugh as he walked her down the stairs. "Get some rest okay? More ninjas will be here soon and once everybody's ready, we'll set off for Konoha. If we make good time, we should get home by nightfall." He picked her up one last time at her door. "Thanks Oriana, you were right there when I need help." Naruto squeezed her gently then put her down.
"Your welcome - go on now, keep your promise and I'll see you later." She shooed him on and laughed when he didn't go down the stairs but jumped out the window. Hurrying to the window, she could just see his blond hair as he ran across the rooftops. "Amazing. I can't wait to see what else you can do Naruto." Oriana went back to her room and joined her husband in bed. She'd tell them about Naruto later, now she just cuddled up to her bear of a husband and slept.
"Good Morning." This was repeated twenty times as Naruto and his clones entered the jail. The sun was shining behind him creating even more Naruto shadows. "Sorry to…wimp out on you guys. We'll watch things – go rest before the others get here." As Naruto spoke ten clones went to guard the hole in the wall where Sasuke had been stationed and one pushed him out of the way. Another clone gently took Sakura's arm and escorted her to the door. Naruto faced Kakashi. "I'm sorry for losing it before but I'm back now. I'll take over so you guys can rest." Naruto hoped Kakashi would trust him.
Kakashi stared at him for three whole minutes. He reached out a hand and pulled Naruto close by the jacket. "Yeah, you look fine. Glad you're okay kid." He laughed and put Naruto in a headlock. I'll have to thank Oriana, that little lady's got special powers."
"Hey, he wants to take over, I say let him! I could use forty winks before we have to leave again!" Sasuke said with a smile. He was breathing easier now that Naruto was back to himself.
"Me too. Come on Sensei before he changes his mind!" Sakura grinned at him then took Sasuke's arm and escaped from guard duty.
"Send word if you need help." Kakashi said letting Naruto go. He backed away wondering if he should tell Naruto what he'd done then just shrugged and waved. Naruto would find out soon enough.
"We'll take the bodies back with us. The town will be responsible for burying them and contacting their families." Genma's voice was gruff as he stared down a child. Her eyes were crying out for help even in death. He bent down and gently closed her lids. "Sorry little one. I hope you're in a better place now." Genma watched the new Chunins harden their hearts as they each took up a body. The life of a ninja could be very grim sometimes.
Before long they were heading into town carrying the dead. People backed away from them in horror but the ninjas paid them no mind. Leading, Genma went straight to the town hall.
Sato-san had already appeared since someone had run to tell him that new ninjas had arrived. "You are the friends Kakashi spoke of, correct? I am Sato the mayor." He saw the leaf headbands but what they carried… "Are those bodies?! Why bring them here?!"
"These people were killed by those bandits. Either they're your own people or travelers. At one point they were in your town so it's your responsibility to bury them or would you rather have rotting corpses welcoming people to your lovely town?" Genma said angrily.
"Oh!" Sato-san felt shame. "Forgive me." He bowed. "If you could, the mortuary is just down the street, first building on the left."
"You heard him. Asuma make sure everything is taken care of them join me – where?" Genma turned back to Sato. "Where is Kakashi's team?"
"The-the jail. I'm told only one guards the prisoners while the others are resting. There was a prison break in the night. But it seems everything is okay now!" Sato was flustered with the angry looking ninja staring at him and the putrid smell of dead bodies.
"Really?" Genma twirled the senbon in his mouth. He wondered if it was Sasuke or Sakura watching the prisoners. "Come to the jail when you're done." He told Asuma then looked to those not carrying bodies. "Let's go check in at the jail. Goodbye." Genma nodded his head at Sato.
Naruto sat at the desk writing. He was aware of every sound. A couple of his clones were playing jaken. Some of them were telling jokes and others were making the prisoners count off and taking down their names. There'd been no trouble out of them since the failed prison break so he was taking the opportunity to write down what happened last night. If he could just pinpoint when the fox had taken control then maybe he could keep it from happening again.
The door opened blinding him. Naruto jumped up over the desk kunai in hand. "Who are you? What do you want?"
"Whoa kid! You called us remember?" Genma said with a laugh. He was surprised to find Naruto in charge. Looking around, he amended that – several Narutos.
His eyes adjusted to the bright light, Naruto finally saw the Jonin. "Genma! You guys here already?" He pocketed the kunai and gave the man a small smile. "Come on in." He turned around, went back to the desk and put the paper in his pocket. "The prisoners are all accounted for. There was a prison break last night…two men were killed and several were severely wounded. Kakashi-sensei, Sakura and Sasuke are at the hotel. I relieved them about two hours ago." Naruto led him to the back where the other Narutos stood at attention. "Chunin Uzumaki relinquishing command." Naruto moved to join the ranks of himself.
Genma raised an eyebrow. Except for the greeting, Naruto was all business. "Accepted." He checked over the prisoners and the list Naruto had made of their names then checked a list he carried. "Since they're not ninja, they don't appear in our bingo book but many of them are on several wanted lists. Looks like we'll have quite a few visitors to Konoha to pick up their criminals." Putting the lists away he looked at Naruto. "Give me a complete report from the moment you arrived." Genma crossed his arms prepared to listen.
Naruto reported everything that was related to the mission. Nothing about Koji, Satoshi and Oriana. He even told him what happened when he tried to practice with the fox's chakra and his failure. "I returned this morning to relieve my team." His face was devoid of any emotion as the told Genma everything. Just behind them in the other room were the other ninjas who'd come with Genma including his friends. They listened to every word.
"Understood. Despite a few problems, things worked out well. Good job. Why don't you go get your team? I'll send two escorts with you."
Naruto stiffened and he opened his mouth to complain but his jaws snapped shut. Escorts! He doesn't trust me! "No problem. And my clones?"
Genma blinked. Before Naruto's eyes had been normal but now they were empty - nothing. He had closed himself off completely. It was like he had no soul. "We don't need them now. I've got plenty of men with me." He hadn't meant to hurt Naruto.
"Fine." Naruto turned to the clones and released them. When Genma turned to leave he followed and stopped dead. Kurenai and her team were there plus a few other ninjas he only knew on sight as well as his father.
"Iruka and Hinata escort Naruto to the hotel and bring back the rest of his team." Genma squeezed Naruto's shoulder then began telling the other ninjas what he needed of them.
Naruto led the way in silence. When Hinata ran up to him and slipped her hand in his, Naruto clutched it and brought her hand to his lips but he still said nothing. He'd never planned on hiding what had happened but neither had he wanted them to come running thinking he was so damn weak that he couldn't make it without them.
"You won't speak to me?" Iruka said walking at his side.
"No need, you heard everything." Naruto said quietly. They reached the hotel. "Wait here." Naruto jumped to the second floor then the third and slipped inside. He took a large breath and entered the room the four of them shared. When he opened the door, Kakashi was stretched out on the couch. Sasuke was sitting cross-legged on the floor meditating and the bedroom door was closed and he guessed Sakura was sleeping.
"Our back up has arrived." He said.
Sasuke took a deep breath and opened his eyes. Naruto sounded funny. "What's up?"
Naruto shrugged. "Dad and Hinata are here. It seems Kakashi doesn't trust me."
Kakashi opened his eye. "That's not it at all Naruto. You were having a bad time meeting up with your friends – I just wanted Lady Tsunade to know what was going on. I didn't think she'd send Iruka."
Naruto looked at his sensei and sighed. "Whatever. Genma wants us over at the jail. Tell Sakura. I'll be out front." He turned and left.
"I knew we shouldn't have come." Hinata said looking down at the street. "I was worried the moment Lady Tsunade said she'd sent him on a mission but he needed to do this. He has to get used to going out again…being in danger and handling it on his own. I shouldn't have come!" Hinata felt tears in her eyes when Iruka lifted her head.
"Too late now Hinata. Kakashi thought we needed to know and Tsunade wasn't the only one worried. I thought I could make things easier for him but now learning about what else happened…yeah we should have stayed home. I just hope he doesn't stay mad at us." His hand stroked her hair and the both looked up when a shadow fell over them. Naruto dropped down from the balcony.
Immediately he saw Hinata's tears and he pulled her into his arms. "I love you."
"I'm sorry for coming. Lady Tsunade ordered the team. I -." She stopped talking when Naruto kissed her. "I love you too."
"What about me?" Iruka asked lightly.
Naruto didn't look at him but down at Hinata. "Yeah, I love you too but that doesn't mean I'm not mad. I didn't need you to come running. You didn't even give me a chance, to see if I'd be all right!"
"No I didn't Naruto." Iruka sighed and took his son's shoulders. "I love you boy and I was worried – all of us were. It was supposed to be a simple mission but then our friends show up and you got a little – uneasy and I came running. Tsunade already feels guilty for assigning you this mission Naruto and she doesn't even know what happened with the prison break. Cut us some slack Son." Iruka gripped him hard.
He wanted to stay angry, he really did. He wanted to take out his frustration on Iruka but with Hinata in his arms and those eyes of her begging for forgiveness, Naruto sighed. "Sorry Dad." He looked over his shoulder and gave Iruka a small smile.
"I'm sorry too. Give us and yourself some time Naruto. You're going to make mistakes and so are we. Try not to go off on your mother when we get home okay?"
"I won't." Naruto promised. He saw Kakashi come out of the hotel and let go of Hinata. "Kakashi-sensei I was wrong to -." Instinct made him dodge Kakashi's fist.
"Good reflex. Forget it. Come on, there's more work to do before we can hit the road." Kakashi started off with Sasuke and Sakura falling in beside him. Naruto, Hinata and Iruka finished the line and the Konoha shinobi family got down to business.
"People it's our job to escort you safely to the Village Hidden in the Leaves! If you listen to us and move at a steady pace, you'll be eating a late dinner in the village. Don't worry about the prisoners, they've been sent on ahead. You won't be seeing them again!" Genma paused as there were cheers from the merchants. There were ten merchants pulling two wagon loads. Next there were some relatives of Hidden Leaf villagers moving to Konoha – a family of five, one guy by himself and lastly Naruto's friends, a group of three. "Please make sure you have everything because we won't be turning back. We leave in thirty minutes!"
The jail had been rebuilt. Most of the major damage to the town had already been cleaned up. The merchants had two new wagons. Konoha had put its best foot forward and the only way these people would remember the bandits was in their minds for all traces of the siege had been erased.
Naruto broke away from the group to go to one of the stores. He wanted some snacks for the road. Things should go fairly easy on the way home and some snacks would help pass the time. When he came out Hinata, Sasuke and Sakura were waiting on him. "Don't worry, I got enough for everybody!" He smiled at them. "I'm not as bad as Choji."
Asuma and Guy's teams were taking the prisoners back leaving Kakashi and Kurenai's team to help with the merchants. Kiba and Shino walking about the town just wasting time until it was time to leave.
"Hello! Excuse me!" A man ran up to them.
"Can we help you?" Sasuke asked. The man looked familiar.
"Yes, no." He laughed. "My little girl Yumi would like to say goodbye to you." He looked at Naruto.
"Oh! Sure." Naruto's expression brightened. "How's the baby?"
They began walking back to his house. "Fine, a few bruises but he's okay thanks to you." He stopped to shake Naruto's hand. "Really, thank you for saving my family."
"I had to. I can't stand to see someone bully and threaten people." Naruto said seriously then smiled. "Glad I was able to save them."
The man blinked at Naruto's tone knowing the young man had been through some things. "You did, you saved them and I'll never forget it! Come on, Yumi's waiting." He slapped Naruto's arm.
Sakura and Hinata were following behind the guys and she filled Hinata in on what Naruto did. Sasuke dropped back and grinned at Hinata. "Wait till you see this – the kids loved him! The little girl and the baby - Naruto wasn't flustered at all!"
Hinata blinked. She knew he was good with kids since he got along so well with Konohamaru and Hanabi but babies? Hinata moved forward until she was next to Naruto. He looked excited.
Before they got close to the house the little girl ran out the door. "Blue!" She jumped up and Naruto caught her and spun her around. Yumi giggled. When they stopped she framed his face and looked into his eyes. "Blue."
"That's not his name sweetheart. Oh, I don't even know your name. I'm sorry!" The man spoke. "I'm Norio."
"Naruto. So you wanted to see me?" He asked tapping his forehead against hers.
"Na-roo-toe! Yes. I drew you!" She wiggled until he let her go then pulled him inside. The girl's mother was waiting and pointed Yumi toward a drawing on the kitchen table.
"Thank you...Naruto?" At his nod, she stepped forward and gave him a hug then kissed his cheek. Thank you Naruto."
"Here!" Yumi waved the paper up at Naruto then hung unto his leg as he looked at it.
Naruto laughed. It was a picture of him standing with one foot on an ugly man and giving the V sign. "It's great Yumi, thank you!" He cupped the girl's head then knelt. "You were a brave girl when that ugly man was here. Since you were so brave, I had to be too so it was because of you that I was able to save you and your brother." He tickled her tummy.
"Really?" When Naruto nodded she hugged him again. "Narootoe Blue!" She liked the name a whole lot.
Grinning Naruto stood. "We should get going."
"Oh wait, would you like to see the baby?" The mother asked and moved quickly into the next room. She came back and gave him to Naruto.
It squealed and waved its hands when he saw Naruto's blue eyes. Naruto lifted the baby, laughed up at him then brought him into his chest. "You're just fine aren't you?" He let the baby take his finger but had to hold still so the baby wouldn't put it in his mouth. "Look at him Hinata." Naruto turned with the baby in his arms.
Hinata fell in love. Naruto holding a baby comfortably and smiling. He's going to make a wonderful father. She placed her hand over his and tickled the baby's stomach and they laughed together as he gave them a baby's laugh.
Sakura blinked. She could see them as the parents they would someday be. "I'm sorry guys but should be heading back. Everybody will be waiting." She wished she had a camera.
Sasuke just shook his head. Naruto was always doing things to surprise him.
Naruto kissed the baby then gave him back to his mother. Picked up Yumi one last time then gave her to her father. "You guys take care! I'll but your picture up on my wall Yumi! Bye!" He walked backwards as he waved.
Sakura and Sasuke watched them, a little jealous of the love Hinata and Naruto shared. They walked with their arms around each other, talking quietly with eyes only for the other. Sakura looked over at Sasuke and wondered if now that he closer to Naruto and Hinata that he would treat her better, more like a girlfriend.
Sasuke did kind of want a relationship but he still wanted to be strong. Itachi could show up at anytime. Getting stronger was his first priority, Naruto and their friends came next, and being with a woman was last on his list. Love would come later.
"There you are!" Iruka said his hands on his hips but the couple gave him pause. There was something in their eyes. He moved over to Sasuke. "What's up with them?"
"Babies." Sasuke said then laughed at Iruka's surprise and shock.
"BABIES! Naruto – you…Hinata you're not -?" Iruka got in their faces then looked down at Hinata's stomach. "Babies but I'm not ready!"
"Dad…what are you talking about?" Naruto backed off and stepped in front of Hinata. "What babies?" He took Iruka's shoulders and looked into his pale face. Hearing Sasuke drop to the ground laughing, he knew his brother had said something.
Hinata found it funny too as Naruto explained what Sasuke had meant by babies. Though she did touch her tummy and wonder when she would give Naruto a baby and have him look at it with love.
"No babies. Good." Iruka placed a hand over his heart. "Son I'm too young to be a granddad." He looked imploringly at Naruto.
"Well I told you, we're not going to wait for you Dad. I'd like to be married a while first but babies happen so you'd better be prepared. You and Kakashi can train together!" Naruto smirked as Kakashi walked up.
"Leave me the hell out of it! I'm not training in the nursery!" Kakashi yelled then scowled as they all laughed for they knew he'd do whatever the Hokage ordered him to.
"Iruka?"
He turned around and looked up. "Satoshi! It's good to see you! Oriana! Koji!" He greeted them all with smiles. "I'm sorry for how abruptly we left you guys and for the trouble we caused. Are you all right?" He frowned. Kabuto had said they'd been hurt.
"They never touched my family." Satoshi said. "I got hit a few times but it was nothing. I've gotten hurt worse in a bar fight!" He grinned then sobered. "But I did tell them you'd been with us and when you guys left. Please forgive me if that led to Naruto's…pain." Satoshi felt such guilt when Oriana told him that Naruto had tried suicide.
Iruka was silent as he looked at his son whose eyes had become shuttered. "We don't blame you for anything. You did what you had to do to save your family. …The enemy after us is ruthless. Something bad was always going to happen." He looked at Hinata who joined Naruto.
"He's still after you? You didn't…kill him?" Koji asked quietly suddenly scared.
"Don't worry. Naruto here hurt him so badly that he'll think twice before coming after him again, especially with so large of force like we have here." Genma added joining the group. "We'll protect you."
Koji nodded. "Protect him first." He pointed at Naruto.
Koji gained the respect of Naruto's friends in that moment. He knew nothing of what was going on yet he still cared enough to want Naruto safe.
"Are you Hinata?" Oriana asked of the girl at Naruto's side. She smiled when the girl blinked at her. "So pretty and lovely lavender eyes. You spoke the truth Naruto – she's perfect for you!"
Naruto blushed. "Sweetheart, this beautiful lady is Koji's mother, Oriana. That's Koji and the other giant is his dad Satoshi. I spent almost a month with them and they're the best – really great friends." He said quietly looking at all of them.
Hinata could hear the sincerity in his voice. She bowed before them. "Thank you for taking such good care of him." She gasped as she was lifted into the air and held aloft just as Naruto had done the baby. "Oh!"
"So you're Naruto's woman? He talked about you all the time! He said you were beautiful and he's right about something else – you're too good for him!" Satoshi laughed and gently set her on her feet.
"Sorry to break this up but we gotta get moving." Genma smiled. "Shinobi – you know your places! Let's go!"
They were making good time. The weather was good and the company friendly. Satoshi's loud voice carried in either direction and since he was telling jokes, everybody was laughing.
"You were on vacation, really? Or were you running from this enemy?" Koji and Naruto were walking together not paying attention to anything but their conversation.
"Kabuto? Run from him – never. Dad was with me. I worry about him and he worries about me. You run when someone you care about is in danger." Naruto said quietly then looked up huge trees lining the road. "No, that time I was running from something else. You may hear things once we get to Konoha and I'll explain then but well, for most of my life I've been hated." Naruto held up a hand when Koji would have questioned him. "These guys well over the years training and stuff, we became friends then they learned something about me. I was feeling…down and worried about whether they would stay my friends so Dad and Pervy Sage took me away. Uh, Jiraiya – I call him Pervy Sage. Now there's a story you'll like!" Naruto tried changing the topic.
"Naruto I don't know you at all do I?" Koji sounded hurt but he was watching Naruto and he saw him flinch. "I'm sorry, it's just hard. I remember one guy full of fun, ready for anything and the guy next to me now has all this pain and history I know nothing about!" Koji kicked a rock.
He blinked rapidly. "You'll fit in well at the village Koji." Naruto said then immediately took it back. "I'm sorry you didn't deserve that! Believe it or not Koji, you saw someone these guys have never seen. I got to be a normal teen when I was with you. Never have I been able to be that free or be myself – ever!" His loud voice drew several stares. Sasuke and Hinata stopped until Naruto and Koji had caught up them.
"Naruto?" Sasuke asked. He looked at Koji so hard the other boy took a step back.
"He doesn't know me that's all. I'm used to that." Naruto let Hinata hug him. "Come on you guys we're slowing the line." He looked back at Koji. "I'll talk to later I guess – if you want." He gave Koji as small smile then with Sasuke on one side and Hinata on the other, Naruto left Koji behind.
The boy's got love but as many problems as there tress in this forest. He surprised me today by going back to the jail in good spirits and even though the Hokage sent his father, Uzumaki even took that well. It's a good thing he's flexible or he would have broken a long time ago. Sorry to do it to you kid after that little episode but I need to test you.
Naruto was doing his best not to brood. Koji had every right to be upset with him. Just when things start to go well something always gets fucked up! Feeling the need to move he was about to go ask Genma if he could scout ahead when…
All the noise around him disappeared. It felt like he was in a vacuum but he wasn't alone. At first he wondered if the fox was trying to break free but no, there was another power – strong but not as powerful as the fox and very controlled. The fox's chakra was wild but this – this different. Maybe not as strong but with this much control, maybe more dangerous.
Naruto gasped loudly and dropped to one knee. The sounds and the people around him came back. He blinked then stood abruptly looking around.
"What is it?!" Iruka ran forward. He'd been with Satoshi and Oriana.
"I don't know. I need to check something! Stay here! Hinata – stay with Dad! Sasuke – I need your eyes!" Naruto was scanning the forest, him movements agitated.
"No problem." Sasuke blinked and his eyes turned red.
"Dad, keep them moving! We'll be back!" Naruto jumped into the nearest tree and headed back in the direction they'd come followed by his brother.
"You sure Sasuke? Nothing at all? Maybe we should have Hinata take a look too." Naruto stopped on a limb pressing a hand against his stomach.
"I've got no problem with that. You want me to go get her?" Sasuke also stopped and turned to look at him. Naruto looked a little sick and he kept a hand on his middle.
He took a deep breath and concentrated but whatever that feeling or power was he couldn't find it again. "No. It's gone whatever it was. Dammit, there's so much I don't understand!" Naruto punched the tree tearing his hand up. He shook it. "Sasuke it was intense. So much power but it wasn't the fox! I know that chakra and this wasn't it."
"Where did it come from?" Sasuke hadn't sensed anything but he'd seen Naruto go white. He and Hinata had called out to him but Naruto was gone. Not until he'd taken in that breath did it even appeared like he was alive.
"DAMN, I DON'T KNOW!" He punched the tree again. "It was just there then it was gone. I was sure it/he/she had to be nearby but there's nothing and if you don't see anything…let's go back. Guess I worried everybody over nothing." Naruto sighed heavily.
"Idiot." Sasuke said joining him. "Better to be safe than sorry. You felt something and we checked it out. No harm, no foul. You'll get it sooner or later Naruto." He gripped his brother's neck.
It felt good having Sasuke supporting him. "Thanks man. Let's hope so…if not…" Naruto knew he'd have to leave. He couldn't keep getting these strange feelings and losing control around his family.
"Forget it Naruto. We told you – you leave, we follow." Sasuke squeezed his neck again. "We should get back."
"You're so damn stubborn." Naruto said but he was smiling.
"Gee look who's talking. You coming or are we heading off into the great unknown?" Sasuke really wouldn't mind taking off for a little while but that wouldn't be best for his brother. "We going home?"
"Of course. Maybe, if things get better, we can take off for a while." Naruto said reading his thoughts. "All right big brother, let's go so Dad and Genma can chew me out. Hey if you want, you can let them yell at you instead. I'm the baby here – protect me!" Naruto said pushing him off the limb.
"Protect you? I'll just yell at you instead - after I knock you around a little!" Sasuke said chasing after him.
Sasuke stopped where Iruka and Hinata were walking with the caravan while Naruto kept going until he was at the front of the line. Genma only glanced at Naruto when he dropped down next to him. They walked in silence for a few minutes.
"So you found nothing?" He'd been on edge since Kurenai had come forward to tell to him something was up. No one else had sensed anything out of the ordinary but then Naruto wasn't ordinary – not by a long shot.
"No. I sensed a great power like the fox's only for an instant then it was gone." Naruto spoke quietly but those ninja near enough to hear paused. Genma even stopped in his tracks and finally turned to look at Naruto.
"A power like the fox's?" He pushed Naruto to the side of the road and let the train of people keep moving. Genma gripped Naruto's jacket. "Are you sure Naruto? How come none of us could feel it? It wasn't…you?" He looked down. "Is the seal broken?"
Kakashi and Iruka joined them. Naruto turned away from watching eyes and lifted his shirt. He knew he just needed to concentrate. "This is my seal. Dad, it's intact isn't it?" Naruto knew it was but they needed to see it for themselves.
Kakashi even used his Sharingan. "The seal hasn't been broken. We'd know if it was Genma. What's going on?" He'd seen his team take off but didn't know why.
Naruto explained again what he'd felt still trying to make sense of it himself. "I don't blame you for not believing me but I really did feel something." He sighed. "How about I go on ahead home? I'll go straight to the Hokage. She should be able to see if there's anything wrong with me." Naruto folded his arms over his chest. That feeling of being all alone in the world was raising its ugly head again.
"Hey! What was that chakra? That's what you guys are talking about right?" Kiba and Akamaru who had been at the end of the line joined them. "I barely felt it but Akamaru said it was intense! What?"
The adults were staring at Kiba. Iruka looked relieved, so did Kakashi and Genma looked a little flustered.
"If you guys felt something, why didn't you say so?" The senbon twirled dangerously in Genma's mouth.
"I saw Naruto and Sasuke go check it out. What's the problem? It was gone as soon as it appeared. At first Akamaru thought it was Naruto but it was different – not all red hot and wild like Naruto's fox but controlled, more tightly wound." Kiba shrugged. "When Naruto took off looking, we kept trying to sense it but it disappeared as quickly as it…came." His voice slowed as Naruto walked over to him.
"Thank you Kiba." He took his hand and held it then bent down to the dog and hugged him. Naruto didn't look at any of them. "I'm going to take Hinata and scout ahead a few miles. We'll stay out in front…away from everyone. Kiba and Akamaru can watch the rear." His voice was commanding though he didn't realize it. He stood looking at Kiba. "Thanks." Naruto didn't look or speak to any of the adults again but took off at a run.
Hinata had been watching the whole thing. Naruto was upset. "He's coming!" She told Sasuke and Sakura. She released the Byakugan and stopped when he got near.
Naruto stopped in a tree staring down at them. "I need you Hinata. Come with me?" He held out his hand and let out weak laugh as she jumped before he could get out the words. "We'll be - we'll be scouting ahead. See you guys later." He stared a Sasuke for moment then nodded thanks and goodbye to his brother.
Sasuke and Sakura moved closer together as they watched Naruto run away with Hinata.
He told her everything. She listened and shared his pain. It was unfair the doubts the other ninjas had but he couldn't blame any of them. He'd even begun to doubt himself when Kiba had come along.
"I don't think I've ever been that happy to see Kiba. I'll have to buy Akamaru some treats. Do you know what he likes?" Naruto looked down at her knowing he probably would have left if she hadn't been around. Maybe not forever but he would have gone away for a while.
"Sure, I'll help you shop for the little guy." She clung to his arm and rested her face against the hard muscles in his arm. "We'll figure it out Naruto. You're not alone anymore."
He knew that and loved her for it but even telling her everything; she just couldn't completely understand what he was going through. "Maybe we should elope and run away together. We go where no one knows us and live quiet lives. We could get busy making babies." He leaned down to kiss her.
"Father would hunt you down and kill you, well maim you!" Hinata giggled. "He's really looking forward to a big wedding. I can see you now paralyzed being held up by Sasuke and Neji as we said our wedding vows. I want a wedding night Naruto! Don't let Father stop everything from moving!" She looked down below his waist and was gratified to hear his laugh.
"You forget baby, I can call on a certain chakra and everything works ten times better!" He leered down at her. "I may even hurt you – be too big for you." He wiggled his eyebrows.
Lavender pools. Instead of looking worried she looked excited. "Bigger, huh? Maybe you should practice sending the chakra down there and give me an example." Now she wiggled her eyebrows then laughed at his shocked expression.
Naruto gripped her waist and lifted her up. "Always make me laugh. I need you so Hinata." He stared up at her then brought her down slowly kissing from her collarbone up to her mouth.
That was how Iruka found them. He would always be thankful for Hinata. She gave Naruto so much love and hope and he truly believed they would have lost him months ago without her in his life. "I'm really sorry to interrupt but here I am! Parent approaching!" He called out to them.
Hinata sighed as Naruto put her back on her feet. It seemed someone was always interrupting them. She rubbed her face against his chest then slowly lifted her head. "Dad, what's up?" Hinata stroked Naruto's back giving him time to deal with his feelings.
Iruka wasn't surprised when Naruto didn't turn around to face him. He hadn't doubted that Naruto had felt something but for all of them this was untried territory and no one knew how to deal with a teen that had the power to destroy a village. Carefully he laid a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "We're going to be taking a half hour break to give everyone a chance to rest and eat something. Won't you two come back and join us? We want you with us Naruto."
"No thanks Dad. I'll stay up front." He looked down at Hinata. "You can run back if you want and give the guys some of these snacks I bought." Naruto looked down at the bag attached to his belt. "Make sure Kiba gets whatever he wants. Go ahead, I'll be okay." For her he could smile.
"Don't move!" Hinata took the bag. "I mean it – there maybe consequences if you move!" Hinata shook her finger at him.
"How's this?" Naruto dropped to the road and made himself comfortable. "This is me not moving." He laughed when she patted his head then smiled as she left.
There was silence between father and son for several minutes. Finally Iruka squatted next to him. "Nobody meant to hurt you Naruto."
"I know."
"I mean it Naruto. It seems like you're dealing with that chakra more and more and well you can't blame people for being scared." He reached over straightened Naruto's headband. He'd taken Hinata's since she now wore his.
"I know Dad, really. You can't trust me. I get it. I was thinking about having Mama T lock me up; I may do it myself anyway just to be on the safe side. I don't want you guys scared of me." Naruto picked up a pebble and rolled it between his fingers not able to look at Iruka.
Iruka dropped to his knees. "No, we won't lock you away Naruto."
"You will if it's necessary." Blue eyes finally looked up. The cold hard plain truth shone in Naruto's eyes. "It's either lock me up or I leave. I don't know what I felt before. Maybe it's after me and that's why only I could sense it but I won't put you in danger or have the people of Konoha fear me anymore than they already do. So you and Mama T will lock me away should it come to that. At least you'll know where I am." Naruto's smile was sad.
He was breaking his father's heart. "And you'll leave if we don't? What about Hinata? You just got engaged Naruto, you'll leave her behind?" Iruka's almost yelled the question.
"I never said I'd leave Hinata." Naruto's eyes became intense. "We may not be married yet but that's the promise – forever. Where I go, she goes and vice versa Dad. I won't leave my woman." He came up to his own knees to be sure Iruka got his point.
He blinked. If he'd ever wondered how much Naruto truly loved Hinata – all doubts were gone now. Iruka believed if he stood between Naruto and Hinata, his son would fight him.
"Naruto?!" Hinata ran back. They look like they're about to fight! What happened?! "Naruto!" She paid no attention the other people behind her. "Dad, what's going on?" Hinata carefully asked as she knelt next to them and turned Naruto's face to her. He looked angry and determined and hurt.
Iruka's butt hit the ground hard. "Nothing…Naruto was just telling me how much he loved you." He leaned his elbow on one knee and covered his face for a moment.
The other Chunin were there. They had come to see what had happened between Naruto and Genma. Akamaru inched over to sit in Naruto's lap and offer some comfort while everyone warily watched the family seated in the middle of the road.
Naruto stroked Akamaru then finally looked up surprised to see Koji and his family plus one other guy he didn't know but he was traveling with them. "Did you get the snacks you wanted Kiba?" He said looking at Akamaru's partner.
"Huh? Oh yeah, thanks." Kiba couldn't look at him directly. Naruto was acting normally but his pain was so obvious. He didn't understand what was going on and he didn't think he'd see Naruto looking so much like he did after the suicide attempt but there it was all over him – despair.
Naruto nodded then looked at Shino. "Damn, I forgot. I totally forgot until just now. I'm sorry Shino."
Head tilted to one side, "Sorry for what Naruto?" Shino asked warily. How much crap can one guy stand?! What did they say to you Naruto? What are you apologizing for?
"You asked me to find a bug back then. I wasn't much of a friend, you asked for a favor and I forgot. I'm sorry, it totally slipped my mind. I hope I didn't ruin something by forgetting. If you want, I can look for it now – I doubt I'll be able to…anytime soon." Naruto squeezed the hand Hinata had given him.
There was a frisson of fear from the group at those words. When they saw Iruka finally raise his head with tears in his eyes – the fear got larger.
"No, no you didn't ruin anything Naruto. Don't worry about it! You know me; I was just interested in it because we don't have any around here! It's out of season now but that's okay Naruto. It was really rare – it would have been a miracle if you had seen it." Shino said urgently, completely out of character for him.
"Still, I'm sorry I didn't even try." He looked at Sakura. "You got the Strawberry Pockey? Good. I know how much you like that." Naruto felt like he should touch base with them all.
"Yeah, thanks. You can be a thoughtful little brother sometimes." Sakura tried to tease him but he only leaned into Hinata when she wrapped her arm around his shoulder.
"Naruto – not without me. Do you hear me? Hinata?" Sasuke said looking at them sternly. He held out a fist to Naruto.
Naruto laughed sadly then looked at Hinata who gave a slight nod. "Brothers." He said and tapped his fist against Sasuke's.
Iruka looked from one boy to the other. "I'm telling you no. Both of you – no to all three of you –NO!" He stood, angry. "We'll find a way Naruto! Neither of those are options!" He turned to Shino and Kiba. "Get back to your posts!" He physically pushed them. "You too!" He said to Sasuke and Sakura. "I mean it Sasuke – Go!"
Sasuke didn't move until Naruto nodded and Iruka growled in frustration that the boy listened to Naruto and not him. He leaned down and jerked Naruto to his feet. "I'm trusting you two to go home. Home. Do you understand me?! I expect to find you at your mother's Naruto." He shook him and wanted to slap that non-expression off Naruto's face. "I'll hunt you down if you're not there." Iruka promised.
"I wouldn't leave without saying goodbye Dad, not this time." Naruto said quietly. "I'll be at Mama T's or maybe I'll be in Sasuke's old cell." He shrugged.
Hinata gasped at that. "No!"
"No is right. It won't happen. Tsunade will not do it. Shut up Naruto!" He said before words could leave his son's open mouth. Iruka jerked him close and held him. "Just go home Son. Go to your mother and I'll meet you there. Promise me."
"I'm going back to Konoha and straight to Mama T's – I swear I'm going home. Love you Dad." Naruto hugged his father back then stepped back to take Hinata's hand. Her eyes were wide with fear questions. "I'll tell you about it." He said and stroked her face.
When he looked up to see Koji, Oriana and Satoshi he bowed politely. "Looks like you made this trip for nothing, at least as far as it concerns me. Sorry about that. Hope you enjoy Konoha. Goodbye." Naruto backed away, studying them and couldn't help but wonder if he wasn't who he was that Iruka and Mama T would be happy and not worry so much about him. Then they could be like Koji and his family. But he was a guy with a demon and seemingly every problem under the sun. Resolutely he turned and with Hinata at his side, headed for home.
"Iruka what was that all about? That goodbye sounded final." Oriana questioned. "He had such hope this morning!"
Iruka looked at his friends. "I'm almost sorry we met you guys. I got to see Naruto be a happy, regular teenager when we were all together. For such a short time in his life…" He shook his head. "Sorry but this is what normal usually is for us." He looked back after his black clad son. "No, I should say this is normal for Naruto. I haven't shared his pain as much as I could have. Don't think t there's but one other person on this planet who knows the depth of his pain. Such pain and still they care more for others than any of us should expect." Iruka scrubbed his face.
"Come on, we should get back or you guys can wait here for the rest to catch up." Iruka noted the young man who'd arrived with Sasuke and the others. "Did you need something?" He'd watched that whole scene. Iruka felt a burst of anger – their heartache wasn't for strangers.
"No, I'm sorry for intruding." The man bowed. "I just wanted to thank him – your son for the snacks; it was thoughtful of him to share his food." He hesitated. "I'm sure he'll be fine, that boy has so many people who care about him – that's all anyone needs."
Iruka took a deep breath. "If only that were true but my son's problems…they never seem to fucking go away!" He yelled then looked ashamed. "Excuse me!" He leapt up into a tree and traveled for several miles trying to control himself.
"I won't let you be locked away from me." Hinata stated with finality.
"Babe…it may happen." Naruto said as they entered the village. It was only four in the afternoon. They'd made good time. The rest of the teams should arrive in three or four hours. "You wanna go home – get some rest? I don't think Dad will mind if I walk you home before going to Mama T's."
Hinata looked at him like he was crazy. "Shut up Naruto. And it will NEVER happen! I'll steal you away first!" She stopped him in the street. "Promise me, we'll leave before that ever becomes a thought. Don't make them lock you up Naruto; I'm sure your parents would prefer us on the run than that."
"But what if - ?" Naruto didn't get to finish because of one slim finger pressed against his lips.
"Together. You and me. Good and bad. This isn't our wedding but I want you to make me this vow to me Naruto. I want forever with you." Her hands framed his face and she stood on tiptoe as close to him as possible.
His hands held her hips and he grinned lopsidedly. "I was never going to leave you Hinata. I just wanted…you to have a choice. Things could get scary." He had to laugh as she shook her head vigorously. "Okay! Together - you and me. Through the good and the bad forever. Man I like the sound of that!" He didn't resist when she pulled his face to hers. For once even though, there were people all about, they weren't interrupted. But eventually they pulled apart. Linked body and soul, they went to face the Hokage.
Panic was her first reaction to seeing Naruto and Hinata especially when she learned that Iruka had sent them to her without them completing the mission. "What the hell happened out there? Why would Iruka send you home?"
"I scare them Mama, that's why." Naruto had Hinata at his side but the feelings from before came rushing back.
"No that's not true Naruto. It's just…nobody knew what to say. Things were awkward." Hinata spoke up.
Tsunade sat across from the couple. It seemed they were closer than ever but neither of them were making any sense. She said back and crossed her legs. "Report. Now." Her tone booked no nonsense.
Naruto sat up and told the tale. When he was done, Hinata gave her report. When she was done they sat waiting on the Hokage's reaction.
Tsunade's foot bobbed up and down as she tried to take in everything they'd told her. "My fault, I wanted to show you that I trusted you by sending you on a relatively easy mission. I imagined you'd come home feeling good about accomplishing a mission after such a long time and you'd smile at me. I just wanted to make you happy for a change. All this is my fault. Your training was supposed to start and all this could have been avoided. I'm sorry Naruto." She lifted her head to stare at her son. The lines were back around his eyes and those eyes were no longer bright. Tsunade felt awful for causing such pain.
Naruto leaned forward. "No Mama T, it's nobody's fault. It just is. If it makes you feel better – it did feel good to be out and helping people again. Here – look at this!" He reached inside his jacket and pulled out a roll of paper. "I got this from a little girl today." A genuine smile appeared on his face as he gave the picture to his mother.
She couldn't wait to see what it was that put a smile back on his face. Carefully she unrolled the paper and let out a laugh. "Obviously you're somebody else's hero too. My son, the hero. This little girl knows the truth." When Naruto frowned and shook his head she grabbed his hand. "Yes baby you are. When you sensed that power – your first reaction was to find it and keep it from the people you were traveling with. You wanted to protect everyone, didn't you?"
"Let's not get into that! What about that power Mama? You haven't asked anything about it but it's real. There's someone out there with chakra almost as strong as mine but even though it's weaker – it's more dangerous! What are we going to do?!" Naruto stood. "I know I scared the other ninjas – they thought the seal was broken and it was me. They don't trust me and I don't trust myself Mama. If we're attacked – I don't have nearly enough control to fight and have a chance of winning!" He began to pace. "I wonder if it's after me and that still puts you guys and the village in danger! I thought you could lock me up –."
"NO!' Both Tsunade and Hinata yelled.
A tiny smile. "No but I may have to leave Mama. It's why Dad sent me home. He wants you to talk me out of it but I'm telling you now – if it means keeping you and Dad safe – I'm gone." He went and knelt before her chair.
"We're gone. He won't be alone Lady Tsunade. I will be with him." Hinata showed up beside him one hand on his shoulder.
Tsunade shook her head. "No. I know you mean what you say – both of you but no." She took his calloused hand in hers. "Did you ever think that it could be somebody just like you? Gaara or someone else? You aren't the only one Naruto." When he blinked she sighed with relief. "What did you feel Naruto? Did you feel intent to kill? Hate or was it curiosity? This person or whatever could have been just as surprised as you. People…like you are wary of everybody even other bearers of spirits. That feeling could have meant anything! Please, please don't do anything until we know. All this talk of leaving could be in vain!" Tsunade watched him carefully, intently.
That gave Naruto pause. What if it is all for nothing?! "Then I scared and worried Dad for no reason. Ah damn." He dropped his head to Tsunade's lap. "I hate it. I hate this! I put Dad and you guys through the ringer for nothing. …But it could still be something!" Why is everything always so messed up?! Nothing ever stays the same!
"Your father and I are strong Naruto; don't worry about us so much! All I'm saying is let's wait and find out. Nothing has to be decided today." Tsunade threaded her hand in his hair. "It isn't just you Naruto. We all live with uncertainty." She gave him a smile when he raised his head in surprise. "Yes, I read your mind! Naruto, you do have more what ifs in your life than anyone should have to deal with but it happens to all of us – wait until you become Hokage! Let's wait and find out what's going on okay? We plan for tomorrow just like always." Tsunade reached for Hinata's hand.
Hinata was nodding. "That's right Naruto. Our wedding. We still have our new training. She's right, let's be happy now. The worries will come and we'll deal with them but let's be happy until then." She spoke softly, coaxingly.
Naruto looked from one to the other then closed his eyes. "Happy. Happy. Okay, with you guys around, I think that's something I can do." He sighed and smiled then laid his head back down on his mother's lap. "I'm tired."
"Go home and get some sleep." Tsunade said as she and Hinata smiled at each other. Crisis averted.
"Can't - promised Dad I'd stay with you…and I want to be here. Can I stay Mama?" Naruto was on his knees, head in Tsunade's lap with his eyes closed.
"Of course baby but get up off the floor." At a gurgle from his stomach she laughed. "We'll order some food and you can rest right here with me. Okay?" Tsunade looked from Hinata to Naruto.
Hinata nodded. She was glad Tsunade was able to turn things around for Naruto, for both of them. Also they needed to spend more time with Tsunade so this was perfect. "Any requests?"
"Ramen. Ichiraku ramen. We'll go by and see him later but right now I want ramen." Eyes still closed, Naruto smiled imagining his favorite food.
"It's about time!" His ladies said.
Iruka completed the mission. The merchants and traveling families arrived safely in Konoha. He and Kakashi even escorted Satoshi and his family to one of the better hotels. Finally with urgency and dread, they headed to Tsunade's office. Kakashi was just as worried about Naruto when he learned what the teen had said to his father. The two of them paused because just outside the building waiting on them were all the Chunins but Ino. "Even if I say go home, you won't will you?" He sighed when they all shook their heads. "Just keep quiet then!" He grumbled then stomped up the stairs.
"You can be here because you're his friends but don't interfere. This is still a family matter. Got it?" Kakashi told them and waited until they agreed before following Iruka.
There were only a few people about since the work day was basically over. As always there were a few ninja around since it was their responsibility to keep the Hokage safe. Seeing Iruka and his entourage, they quietly melted away sensing some kind of confrontation was about to happen.
He gripped the door hard to keep himself from forcibly opening it. After a moment, Iruka walked into the office and stopped cold.
Tsunade sat on the couch reading a report. Naruto was under her arm and Hinata was under his and both teens were fast asleep. "Shh, talk softly. You're home. Mission complete? No more problems?" Seeing the Chunins behind Iruka, Tsunade was warmed by their concern for Naruto.
Whatever emotion that had been pushing him on suddenly just whooshed out of him. Dragging his feet, Iruka went to sit down before them. "Uh, yeah. I umm asked Genma to make his report tomorrow." He blinked several times at the three of them. "He's not locked up in jail. He didn't disappear. Naruto's here with you and sleeping like a baby. How'd you do that?!" Iruka threw up a hand. "He was, he was almost falling apart at the seams but there he is sleeping. He was threatening – no all but promising me he was leaving! The both of them and Sasuke too!" Iruka glared at the dark haired teen who just shrugged. "Now he's sleeping like nothing happened! He came straight here?" Iruka slouched back in the chair staring at Naruto. He knew it was stupid but he was angry that he wasn't going to get to yell at Naruto.
"He did. He was tired. I told him to go home but he said he promised you he'd stay. We had dinner then they both just went to sleep." Tsunade stroked a hand over Naruto's head then down to Hinata's. "Their emotions wore them out." Her eyes locked onto his. "She talked him out of being locked up – Thank God."
"…Are they…leaving?" Iruka's voice was hushed. Naruto said he would tell him goodbye first. Please no…
Tsunade shook her head quickly. "No. No." Tears wet her eyes. "We're going to wait and see what life throws at us and in the meantime, we're going to be happy!" This time she nodded. "He said he'd be happy!"
Iruka pushed himself to his feet and went to them. He was the one kneeling this time. Taking Tsunade's hand he then bowed his head and rested one hand on Naruto. "Thank God."
"Okay guys, let's beat it. Naruto's okay. You too Sasuke, you can bug him with questions tomorrow. Come on, I'll buy you dinner." Kakashi said pushing Naruto's friends out of the room.
"What about me? I'm hungry too?" Sakura asked as she wiped away a tear.
"Moocher!" There was cheerful banter as they left the Hokage's office.
"Sorry Dad." Naruto said sleepily. "Sorry I lost it." He'd heard voices but was only just now waking up.
"Yeah you did but you had good reason too. I'm sorry too – I lost it as well." He grinned at Naruto's heavy lidded eyes. "I'd tell you to go back to sleep but you'll crush your mother if stay there all night."
"But I like it here. Mama and wife." Naruto pulled Hinata closer and she mumbled turning into his chest.
"Yes Naruto?" Hinata asked placing a hand over his heart. Her eyes popped open at Iruka's laughter. "Dad!" She blinked wondering what she'd missed.
"Somehow I don't think this is going to be a long engagement." Iruka leaned forward to kiss Hinata's cheek. "Thank you for loving him." He told the girl as he stood.
"Get up and take your wife home Naruto. This day is finally at an end. Rest and we'll find some answers later." He took the hand now as big as his own and pulled Naruto to his feet.
"I can give some answers now if you like." A voice came from behind Tsunade's desk.
Hinata was crouched low next to Naruto in her fighting stance, Byakugan activated. Iruka's arms were crossed in front of his chest with shuriken in both hands ready to throw them as he protected Naruto with his body. Several clones appeared for as Hinata and Iruka wanted to protect him, he was going to protect them and attack the stranger.
"STOP!" Tsunade shouted and grabbed Naruto's shoulder. "He is not an enemy! Naruto, this is the man I wanted you to meet." She looked from her confused son to the young man. "Please tell me it was you he felt." Tsunade hoped he would answer yes.
He bowed low. "It was. I'm sorry my lady, I never meant to cause such a disturbance." The man lifted his head and focused his golden eyes on Naruto. "Please forgive me." He dropped to one knee seemingly prepared to stay that way.
Iruka looked at the young man. "You were traveling with us. So close…why did only Naruto and Akamaru feel that chakra?" He asked softly looking back at Tsunade.
The man did not move or answer. He was there for Naruto and until the teen responded, he would not move.
"Naruto – he wants your forgiveness or at least your acknowledgement. What will you do?" Tsunade asked softly. She expected some anger from him because she had wondered if this man was responsible the mess that happened that day and she of course shared some of that guilt.
He didn't know what he felt. Naruto let the clones go and he moved in front of Hinata and Iruka. He stopped before the man. He was maybe twenty years old with golden almost bird like eyes in shape and color. He wore his hair in a top knot but was so long it still touched the floor as he knelt. A black cloak covered the rest of him.
Gold to blue they stared at each other. "You're like me?" Naruto asked softly and watched as the quiet stranger hesitated then nodded. "We're alike." He stated. "Can you…can you help me?" Hope flared in Naruto's eyes and he held his breath as he waited for an answer.
"Honestly I do not know but I would like to try. Can you forgive me Uzumaki Naruto and let me work with you?" He held out a hand.
"Yes." Naruto pulled the man to his feet.
"My name is Satome Takeshi and my partner is the Immortal Phoenix." He smiled as Naruto's hand jerked inside his. "The phoenix is my partner – we are friends but it's different for you isn't it Uzumaki?"
Naruto nodded his head. "Very different. Call me Naruto." They were still holding hands and studying each other. "My…prisoner is the Nine-Tailed Fox."
"Please call me Takeshi. Let's sit." So intent was Naruto that he sat down where he stood but Takeshi did not mind. He unfastened his cloak to reveal a red, gold and black shirt over black pants that were tapered at the ankles and disappeared into black boots. On his hip he wore a sword, its sheath decorated with the gold carving of a phoenix in flight and the hilt was gold and black. There was also a weapons pack attached to the back of his belt and another strapped to his thigh. Takeshi draped the cloak over his arm, removed his sword and sank gracefully to the floor in front of Naruto.
Hinata knelt just behind Naruto. He didn't notice but she was just as curious to find out if this man could really help Naruto.
Tsunade and Iruka sat on the couch and without realizing it leaned forward holding hands. They were as silent and as watchful as mice.
"Will you…do it again?" Naruto asked.
"Of course." Takeshi wanted to experience that moment again too. Looking into Naruto's eyes he concentrated his chakra. He saw the teen's eyes widen.
Naruto shivered then unconsciously pulled up some of the fox's chakra. It immediately surrounded his body glowing red.
Tsunade jumped up and left the room. She let her guards know that Naruto was using the fox's chakra and they were not to be disturbed. It worried her that Akamaru and the other ninja animals sensitive to chakra would feel what was happening and come running. Having made sure they wouldn't be interrupted, Tsunade returned to Iruka and took his hand again. How is it that we can feel and see Naruto's chakra but not Takeshi's?
Takeshi backed off. Slowly he lowered his lids until the power was contained. When he opened them again he noticed that Naruto was breathing hard. He gripped Naruto's wrist. "What calms you? Focus on what gives you peace!"
Naruto turned to look at Hinata. Her soft smile and the love in her eyes made the difference. His breathing slowed and he was able to pull it back, put the cork back in the bottle. With his free hand Naruto turned and pulled her forward to kiss her. "Thanks."
"You're welcome." She gave him another kiss then moved back out of the way. Questions bubbled inside her but the knowledge that she gave him peace was enough for now.
Takeshi looked at the pretty, lavender eyed girl. "You're a very lucky man. Very lucky."
"I am." Naruto's wide smile made Takeshi laugh. "Will I be able to do that? Even though I could feel it, I couldn't see your chakra! How did you learn such control? Or did you always have control? Birds – the phoenix is much different than a fox. Could that be the difference?" Naruto leaned closer until they were almost nose to nose.
"I do not know. No the control was learned. Yes they are different and we won't know until we work together." Gently he pushed Naruto back. He understood the guy's interest and excitement because Naruto was the first person he'd met who was like him.
"Is tomorrow too soon?" Naruto asked quickly.
"I would prefer it!" Now Takeshi's smile lit the room. "…Naruto I caused much friction between you and your peers today." The smile disappeared to be replaced with a frown. "I only wanted to test you – to see if you could feel my chakra. Have I caused problems for you?"
Naruto waved a hand. "Oh that's nothing new – that crap happens all the time. Something happened to me not too long ago – my emotions are all over the place." He looked back at his family. "I don't know why they put up with me but because of them I'm fine or will be. I don't know what you know about me Takeshi but hate and fear of me is nothing new."
He could see strength in Naruto. The teen talked of weaknesses but there was a core of steel in him. Takeshi was glad to have found Lady Tsunade again. She said that coming to Konoha could change his life and she was right. Naruto was going to be an interesting friend and they had much to teach each other. Takeshi hoped that Naruto could teach him to be strong and in return he would do what he could to help the teen.
"Understood. Would you like to hear my story?" Takeshi asked.
"Oh yeah. Hey Mama T, can we get some snacks and stuff?" Naruto's bright eyes looked to his mother.
"No problem Naruto." Tsunade stood. Pride filled her. Naruto was excited and hopeful again. Takeshi had showed up at exactly the right time. The two had already made a vital connection. She left them to find some food. Somehow she didn't think anyone would be going anywhere for quite a while, the two boys were very curious about the other!
Ino fumed. She had been on that mission and seen how her friends had talked and made Naruto the topic of conversation. It was sickening, that and seeing Hinata follow around behind Naruto like a love sick puppy. She'd been happy to be a part of the group escorting the prisoners so she wouldn't have to look at them.
When they'd first arrived in the town, she'd been pleased to hear how Naruto had messed up although she was glad that she hadn't been around when he'd lost control of the fox's chakra. The fact that he had lost control and people were still willing to be around him baffled Ino and there was nothing she could say or do against him.
Things at home were…neutral. Her father's threats were enough to keep her from attacking Naruto. She did love her father after all and didn't want to disappoint him again but it was still damned hard to even look at Naruto, let alone pretend to like him. Today she'd actually sat down to have dinner with her team, something they hadn't done since finding out about Naruto when Kiba had showed up. All he'd had to say was Naruto and Shikamaru was up and leaving followed by Choji. Choji never missed a meal but he got up and they left her to eat alone.
She'd taken a long walk trying to get rid of her anger before going home when she'd seen the whole gang hanging out by the Hokage's building. Carefully she'd gotten close enough to hear what they were talking about.
Neji had been praising Hinata saying how strong she was. It was because of her that Naruto was able to face all the hardships in his life and the others agreed with him. Hinata was likened into a goddess because she loved Naruto! The two of them were becoming the most popular ninja couple around. What rubbish! Nobody had wanted the little mouse so she'd latched onto the other freak in their village - the demon boy!
Suddenly she smiled, Ino had an idea. If she couldn't attack Naruto directly then she would go through Hinata! Neji thought Hinata was strong but Ino had faith in her jutsu. "How about I destroy Hinata's mind and in the process take away the love Naruto so desperately needs! Without her, what will become of you Naruto? I hope you self-destruct!" Ino went home happier than she'd been in a long time.