Learning to be Human

by tgobg

Given a second opportunity to live. Naruto learns the meaning of friendship and love as he goes on his greatest adventure yet. Naruto will be taking the place of Cloud. Meaning, no Cloud in this story. No like, no read.

2. Chapter 2

Doctor Ritz looked down at the young man lying on the bed. A sad sigh escaped the doctor. The young man had an intense case of Mako Poisoning. The chances of him ever waking up were slim to none. Also when they had found him, there had been several large cuts and a thin puncture wound right beneath his heart. It is as if someone had tried to chop this man into pieces with a very sharp sword and when that had failed skewered him. A cruel fate had been dealt to this man. Ritz did one last check up before leaving.

The young man on the bed continued to lie there motionlessly. His bright blonde spiky hair stuck up at all angles. He looked to be twenty one or twenty-two. In that bed is where he had been lying for the past five years unmoving. He had just washed up on the shores near Kalm one day. Ritz had never seen such a severe case of Mako poisoning. By all means the man should be dead. Instead of dying, each day the man grew stronger. Where his skin had once been pale and body sickly, he now looked perfectly normal except for the fact of being in a coma.

A finger started to twitch. Soon fingers on each hand started to move. Slowly the eyelids started to tremble. They slowly opened to reveal two very beautiful sky blue orbs. With a light grimace, the man slowly sat up. 'Where am I?' thought the man. 'Who am I?' A sudden migraine made the man grab his head and bite his lip in pain. Memories flooded into his head.

His eyes snapped open. "Tifa!" He looked around the room in a panic before calming down. His memories were still jumbled around and there were some major blank spots, but he now remembered a bit of what happened. "Uzumaki Naruto is my name." Naruto sat up and leaned his back against the bed post. His muscles were sore and hurt when he moved them. He felt extremely weak, physically and mentally. The last thing he could remember is guiding those two SOLDIER members up the mountain to the Mako Reactor. Everything after that is a blur and made his head hurt. He did remember Tifa being near death and one of the SOLDIER members lying on the ground defeated.

Please Kami, let her be alive. Just the thought of her being dead made him feel sick. He had seen death so many times and even watched as his own comrades were cut down. But never did he feel anything more then a passing feeling of regret. However, the thought of Tifa being dead brought untold pain to his heart. She was, no is, his best friend and someone he cares deeply for. A determined look appeared in Naruto's eyes. First thing first. Find out where he is, get better, then find Tifa. With that in mind, Naruto slowly got out of bed.

Midgar: Sector 7 Slums

Tifa wiped down the counter as the last customer left. She put up the closed sign and headed back inside to clean the tables. A sigh escaped her as she started to put up the chairs. "Tifa!" A cute little girl with brown hair came running towards her smiling brightly.

"Marlene, did you finish your reading?" smiled Tifa. The girl may only be five, but she is very smart for her age. "Hai! Is Daddy home yet?" asked Marlene with a hopeful look.

"He'll be home soon. Go wash up and by the time you are done I am sure he will be back to tuck you in," smiled Tifa. Marlene beamed and went to go do as she was told. Tifa giggled lightly. The young woman did wonder where Barret and the others were at. They should have been back by now. Not only that but she needed to head over to Sector 5 to pick up some groceries and supplies to restock the bar and someone had to watch the place while she did that.

The doors burst open and Tifa didn't even need to turn to know who it is. "Barret, must you do that every time you enter?" sighed Tifa looking at the tall muscular man.

He smiled sheepishly as Biggs, Wedge, and Jessie followed in behind him. "Sorry. Is Marlene asleep yet?"

Tifa smiled, "you got back just in time. She is upstairs waiting for you to tuck her in." A smirk appeared on Barret's face as he nodded gratefully at Tifa then headed upstairs. Tifa started to pour some drinks and placed them down in front of the rest of the AVALANCHE crew.

"Thanks."

"Arigato."

"Owe you one."

"No problem. It's on the house," smiled Tifa. AVALANCHE many would call them terrorists. Well everyone really especially with Shinra in control of the paper, but they were just trying to make the world, no planet, a better place. She had joined up with them four years ago, a year after coming to Midgar. Her bar, 7th Heaven, is their base of operations, at least until a better place is found.

Tifa cleaned the last glass as Jesse, Biggs, and Wedge headed to the secret room beneath the bar to get some sleep. That left Tifa all alone. Five years ago. No! Tifa shook her head and wiped her eyes refusing to get lost in the memories of the past. Her eyes glanced over to the corner of the kitchen. She walked over there and pulled open a draw that she never used for anything but to store a certain item. Reaching into the drawer, she pulled out a black cloth with a metal plate in the middle of it. On that metal plate it had the symbol of a leaf. Her fingers slowly traced over the leaf symbol. Naruto. She clutched the hi-ate tightly and hugged it to her chest. 'I miss you,' whispered Tifa before wiping her eyes. She put the hi-ate back in the drawer and decided to some sleep.

Midgar Sector 5

Naruto had managed to sneak into the city but found himself in the slums. He didn't have the strength to sneak into Shinra Headquarters. At least not yet. Three days ago he had left Kalm. Had decided to come straight here. If he could find any information on what happened at Nibelheim five years ago, then it would be at Shinra Headquarters.

The young man took a seat on the ground to rest for a bit. Gripping his Cure Materia, he let its power wash over him. Good thing he had decided to steal some materia at the Materia Shop in Kalm. Though he did wish he still had his Fire and Lightning Materia. Sure he got some new Fire and Lightning materia, but he would have to retrain it in order to access the more powerful spells. He also picked an Ice Materia to add to his arsenal.

Leaning against the building wall, Naruto wondered if it is wise to be walking around wearing his ANBU gear. Granted it is all he had, but it did make him stand out. Then again, it didn't seem as if anyone here cared as they walked by him without a second glance. Plus The arm guards he had did make it easier to store his materia. He needed to calm down and stop being so anxious. Being anxious would only get him killed. If he wanted to find Tifa then he needed to keep a calm and collected mind.

With that in mind, Naruto stood up. His eyes fell upon a familiar face. Was that Johnny? Naruto quickly henged himself into himself into his jounin outfit. "Johnny!"

A man with short red hair spun around. "Someone call my name?"

"I did," said Naruto.

Johnny's eyes widened. "Naruto? Is that you man?! I haven't seen you in years!" A large smile appeared on Johnny's face.

"How are you?" asked Naruto knowing he needed to make small talk.

"Great. How about you?" smirked Johnny.

"I am well."

"Ha-ha, we should catch up some time. Sorry to say but I got a date at HoneyBee Inn," smirked Johnny. "Oh hey. We should catch up at Tifa's bar in Sector 7. I am sure she will be happy to see you."

Naruto felt a heavy weight fall from his shoulders. His entire body relaxed releasing tension he didn't realize he had. "Yeah. We should do that. But first, which way to Sector 7? I would like to say hi to Tifa." Johnny gave him quick directions before running off.

She is alive. Alive and safe. Naruto started to smile behind his mask and couldn't stop. He turned on his heel and started to make his way to Sector 7. No point in going to Shinra Headquarters anymore.

Sector Seven: Tifa's 7th Heaven Bar

"I'm starving," grumbled Barret.

Tifa rolled her eyes and smiled lightly. "I'll go upstairs and make some food. You guys want anything?" Biggs and Jesse declined but Wedge asked for a sandwich. The bar is closed today as they needed to plan their attack on destroying the Mako 1 Reactor. Tifa took the elevator up. She pushed a strand of hair out of her face as she walked behind the counter. Opening the up the fridge she started to gather the food.

Putting it on the counter, she started to make several sandwiches. Just in case Jesse and Biggs got hungry. The bell rung signaling the someone had entered. "I'm sorry but the bar is closed. Please come back tomorrow," said Tifa not looking up from her work.

"Gomen." Tifa froze the knife in her hand inches away from spreading the mayonnaise. That voice. She knew that voice anywhere. It couldn't be. Slowly, she looked up. Her hand started to shake and the knife fell from her hand. The knife fell tip first into the floor board.

There standing in front of the doors is none other then Naruto. He stood a couple inches taller, but that is definitely him. Tears appeared in Tifa's eyes. It was him. She walked out from behind the counter and like a dream, walked towards him. Reaching out, she touched his face just to make sure he is real. She touched that damn mask that he always wore then touched his feather light hair that she had always loved. "Naruto?"

"Hai."

A cry of happiness escaped Tifa as she jumped forward wrapping her arms around him. He didn't really know what to do, but Naruto could not deny the warm feeling he felt at seeing and feeling Tifa again. Slowly, he put his arms on her back and gave her a hug back. Something he had never given anyone. They broke apart and Tifa had a large beautiful smile on her face. "I am so glad you are alive. I thought you were dead," sniffed Tifa wiping her eyes. "Where have you been? What happened to you?"

"I can't really remember anything from five years ago. But I woke up in the town of Kalm a week ago. Apparently, I had a severe case of Mako poisoning that put me in a five year long coma," answered Naruto. Tifa led him to an empty table and the two sat down across from each other.

Tifa couldn't believe it. This entire time he had been in Kalm. A mere two days away, a day if she ran. The fates were cruel. "What happened that day?" asked Naruto.

"I don't really remember much either. All I remember is Sephiroth going insane and then killing my father," Tifa whispered the last part. "After that I tried to fight him but he cut me down."

Naruto suddenly felt bad for bringing it up. "Then you came and one of your clones carried me out of the reactor but it disappeared soon afterwards. I must have passed out after that as when I came to, I was been on my way to Midgar with Master Zangan. He told me that the town had been destroyed and the Mako Reactor had been destroyed in a massive explosion. Said something about needing to get out of there before Shinra had showed up." Tifa shifted nervously and Naruto knew that she was leaving a bit out. That is ok because he knew she would tell him when she is ready. He still didn't remember what happened but started to remember vague things about the town of Nibelheim being in flames. It was slowly coming back to him.

"Anyway. Let me get you something to eat. You must be starving," smiled Tifa pushing such memories to the back of her mind.

"Arigato," Naruto walked up to the counter and took a seat on a stool.

Tifa made a sandwich for Naruto who took it gratefully. A booming sound made the two turn to see Barret come up from the base. "Tifa you ok!?" yelled Barret pointing his gun arm at Naruto.

"It's ok Barret. He is an old friend. I didn't mean to make you worry, but I haven't seen him in years and I kind of forgot to come back down," said Tifa apologetically.

Barret calmed down and lowered his gun arm. "He got a name?"

"Uzumaki Naruto."

"Naruto? What kind of dumbass name is that?" laughed Barret. Tifa gave Barret a glare that shut him up. "Right. Well come on back down stairs when down chatting. And don't forget the food."

"Wait." Barret turned to look at Tifa curiously. She looked at Naruto. "Naruto, would you consider joining AVALANCHE?" Naruto looked at her curiously.

Break

A bored look appeared in Holtz's eyes as he did guard duty. This had to be the most boring job in the world. To think that he had made the rank of Captain and yet here he is still doing guard doing at some stupid Mako Reactor. Work for Shinra they say. Great benefits and great pay they say. Load of crap. The pay sucked and his benefits were dismal. Good thing he didn't have to worry about a family or he would be broke. Only good thing about working for Shinra is that he is able to live on top of the plate in Midgar. No slums for him. Except when he went down there to meet with some random hooker. Man he couldn't wait until he got paid. First thing he would do is go to Sector 5 and have his way with one of those fine HoneyBee Inn girls. "Sir, train is coming in," yelled an infantryman.

"Yeah, I am coming," grunted Holtz. Bunch of incompetent idiots. All they had to do is unload the damn train. He turned the corner and his eyes widened. Lying on the ground were five of his men. Shit, an intruder. Holtz went for his gun, but never reached it as a blow to the back of the head dropped him like a sack of potatoes.

"Whoa. That was cool," yelled Wedge jumping off the train and stumbling as he tried to stick the landing.

"Not bad," nodded Biggs. Jesse gave Naruto a smile as she hopped off behind the others.

Barret's deep voice filled the air, "stop standing around you idiots. Ain't got time to be congratulating each other like a bunch of shit heads. Unless you want more of those Shinra bastards to show up." His eyes fell upon the new guy, Naruto. "You're with me."

The group silently made there way into Mako Reactor 1. As Biggs and Jesse opened the doors. Naruto stood there thinking about how ironic it is that he has joined up with such a group. He had left his world to avoid this line of a work, but here he is. Doing it again. Yet this time he is doing it in order to stay close to a friend. Never would he have thought that Tifa would join such an organization, but it would seem what happened at Nibelheim had affected her more then he thought it would. Not that he could blame her. She had lost what remained of her family along with a great deal of friends. Shinra had taken so much from both of them, but much more from Tifa. He swore after seeing her pain that he would never allow her to go through that again. Even if it meant becoming an assassin again, he would do whatever it took to keep Tifa from feeling such pain again.

Naruto and Barret stepped into the elevator along with Jesse. "You don't talk much huh?" grunted Barret.

"What would you like me to say?" asked Naruto. Jesse smiled a bit as Barret grumbled.

"These Reactors are killing the planet. Don't you even care?"

"No, not really."

"Grrr, you piss me off blondie."

"Gomen." Barret glared at Naruto knowing that he hadn't meant that apology. "We're here," said Jesse as the elevator came to a stop. "Let's go," ordered Barret. Jesse stayed at the elevator while Barret and Naruto went down to the Reactor core.

It only took them ten minutes to reach the core. Barret set the charges. "This should keep the planet going a little longer." A smirk appeared on Barret's face as he set the bomb. Alarms started to go off. "Hope you are ready blondie. They are going to throw everything at us." Barret checked his gun arm to make sure it had plenty of ammo. Naruto remained emotionless as ever pissing Barret off even more.

After fighting their way out. AVALANCHE watched as Mako Reactor 1 exploded. The blast had been so wide that it actually did a bit of damage to the plate as well. Almost all the lights in Sector 1 went off. It would be awhile before they came back on. Biggs and Wedge started to celebrate, but were shut up by Barret. "Calm your fucking asses down! That was sloppy! The next one better go smoother," ordered Barret.

"Hai!" shouted the three. All looked for Naruto but the blonde haired man is nowhere in sight. Barret cursed up a storm before shouting at everyone to meet back in the slums.

Sector 7

Naruto walked through the slums without a care in the world. He walked past a couple of bums begging for money. His thoughts were all focused elsewhere. Shinra, SOLDIER, Mako Reactors, Sephiroth. He couldn't seem to get his mind off any of those things. Already he knew why his mind couldn't focus on anything else. What ever had started five years ago, it had not ended. His mind would be at unease until he knew the full truth of what happened. By all accounts, if he fought that man, then he should be dead a hundred times over. And they had fought from the scars over his chest.

Sephiroth had the strength of a hundred men and the skill to destroy an army without taking a single scratch. Scarier yet, Sephiroth could do it with or without materia. Naruto had never faced an opponent so powerful. Not to sound arrogant, but Naruto knew that at full strength, he is at a level just above Kage. But he would need to get stronger. Something just told him that he would meet that man again. And when he did, he would not lose a second time.

He looked up and found himself standing in front of Tifa's bar. A guilty look appeared in his eyes. She had been hurt because he had not been strong enough. Lost all those she cared about because of his weakness. He had let down his only friend. Unacceptable. Never again. Naruto turned on his heel and decided to go train for a bit.

Nighttime

Tifa woke up when she heard footsteps. She rubbed her eyes and looked at the person she had stayed up all night for. "Naruto? Is that you?"

"Hai," said Naruto.

A light yawn escaped her. "Where have you been? Are you ok?" A worried look appeared in her eyes as she looked upon him. Why had he been acting so distant the past week? She couldn't lose him. Not again.

Naruto looked at her emotionlessly. "I am fine. You should get some rest."

"You didn't answer my first question," frowned Tifa.

"I decided to train for a bit." She looked him in the eyes but could tell nothing. It is as if he had reverted back to his cold and emotionless personality that he had when they first met. A sad look appeared in Tifa's eyes. "I see. Well you should know that Barret is planning for us to take out the number five Mako Reactor two days from now. I'll be coming with you all this time," said Tifa. Naruto nodded as he walked past her and headed to one of the empty rooms to sleep.

Break

Barret glanced at Tifa who had been fidgeting the whole train ride. "What is wrong with you woman? You getting cold feet or some shit?"

Tifa gave a small smile that didn't last long. "Sorry."

"Quit your damn apologizing and focus." Barret folded his arms across his chest. "Aint no time to be getting your damn panties in a twist." The woman nodded. Tifa glanced over at Naruto who stared out the window. He had been like this whole ride. Maybe it had been a bad idea to ask him to join AVALANCHE. She remembered him saying that he used to be a ninja in his past. An assassin for hire. It may seem crazy that a young boy would have such a profession, but when she remembered all the things he could do, it didn't seem so far-fetched.

She was snapped from her thoughts when alarms started to blare. "Shit. What the fuck is going on?" yelled Barret.

Jesse came running into the cart. "We need to get out of here." She gave an apologetic look before running back out. "I'll cover you all," said Naruto.

"Right. Let's get the fuck out of here," yelled Barret barreling past people. Tifa nodded at Naruto before following Barret. The trio made it all the way to the front of the train.

"You have to jump," said Biggs.

"Fuck," cursed Barret jumping.

Tifa glanced at Naruto before she jumped. Naruto didn't hesitate and jumped next. Barret had stumbled and fell on his face. Tifa stumbled a bit but kept her balance. Naruto landed on the ground without a single problem. "Son of a bitch. I aint doing that shit again," grunted Barret. The leader of AVALANCHE turned to face Naruto and Tifa. "Alright let's get going. No time to sit around here and play games."

Naruto doubled check his gear before following Tifa and Barret. "I been meaning to ask you blondie. What the fuck is with that outfit? You trying to be some type of fucking ninja or something?" Barret smirked thinking he would get a rise out of the man.

"I am a former ninja. This is my ANBU uniform. I feel most comfortable in it," replied Naruto.

"You fucking serious? You really from Wutai?"

"I didn't say I was from Wutai."

Barret growled. "You really piss me off!"

"Gomen," replied Naruto emotionlessly. A tick appeared on Barret's head. Tifa stepped between the two. "Calm down Barret. We are here," she pointed at the green beams that prevented them from going any further. A grunt came from Barret. Naruto walked over to a vent and with a single kick dented it. It is stronger then he thought. He then drew his ninjato and in a blur made several slices. His blade clicked as he sheathed it and the vent fell into pieces. "Aw fuck, you telling me I got to squeeze into that shit?"

Tifa smirked a bit as she climbed down first. Barret continued to curse as Naruto followed down after her. It didn't take them long to get down the ventilation shaft. Jesse waited for them at the bottom. "I see you finally made it. Just follow this path to Biggs and Wedge."

"Damn tight as squeeze. Need to make those fucking things bigger," grumbled Barret.

"Thanks Jesse. You should head on back. We will see you back at base," smiled Tifa. Jesse nodded and took off running in the opposite direction.

Mako Reactor 5

Tifa, Barret, and Naruto reached the core of the reactor. This time Barret was the one who set the bomb. Naruto grabbed his head as they walked across the bridge.

"Father!" A young teenage Tifa ran over to her father who had a sword in his body. Tear spilled down Tifa's face as she shook her father but he didn't move. "Sephiroth did this didn't he? I hate him! Shinra, SOLDIER, Mako Reactors, I hate it all!" Tifa grabbed the sword and ran forward intent on killing Sephiroth.

"Naruto." Naruto looked up to see Tifa looking at him with concern filled eyes. "Are you ok?"

"You look like shit," stated Barret.

"I am fine," said Naruto.

"Good then let's get the fuck out of here," grunted Barret. Tifa sent Naruto a worried look before they started to make their way out. Naruto had a contemplative look in his eyes. That memory. It hadn't been his. He didnt know how he knew it, but he just did. But why did he remember it then? If that memory is not his then whose had it been. And more importantly why did he have it?

He thought back to what the doctor had told him. Five years in a coma due to severe Mako poisoning. Doctor Ritz had said that he had most likely fell into the Lifestream. But it had been unusual that he had washed up on the shores of Kalm. Most of those who fell into the Lifestream, had their dead bodies wash up near some island on the other side of the continent. Though there were cases of those who had fell into the Lifestream washing up on shore all over the world. Could his case be unique or maybe someone had put him on the shores of Kalm. Either way, it could have something to do with why he had remembered something he knew that was not originally a memory of his. "Come on, we are almost out of here," yelled Barret picking up the pace as they ran across the metal bridge.

The sound of a helicopter made all three stop. A helicopter flew right over them and hovered in the air over the bridge. Naruto watched as a bald fat man came walking down the plank from where the helicopter hovered. So lost in his thoughts that he hadn't kept his eyes on his surroundings. Naruto frowned at his amateur mistake. "So. You are the group known as AVALANCHE. I must admit, I expected something more," said the fat man arrogantly.

"You! I know who the fuck you are! Your that mother fucking bastard. The President of Shinra!" yelled Barret pointing his gun arm at the fat man.

"Yes, I am. Unfortunately, I don't have time to talk to you. I merely came here to see your faces and test out a new prototype weapon," said President Shinra.

"Fuck you! I am going to fucking kill you, you son of a bitch."

"Barret we have a problem," yelled Tifa. Barret turned his head and dived out of the way just in time to avoid being ran over by a huge ass robot. Naruto flipped backwards several times as lasers tried to litter him with holes. He came out of his flip both ninjato drawn.

The helicopter took off with President Shinra in it. "Son of a bitch!" yelled Barret firing his gun arm. The bullets bounced harmlessly off the machine. It spun around and a panel in the middle of its chest opened. Naruto went to attack it whiles its back turned to him, but a panel opened up in the back as well. Bullets were fired from the front and back of the machine at the members of AVALANCHE.

Tifa ran forward dodging the bullets and reared back her fist. She punched the robot right in the chest denting the metal. Barret provided cover fire as the robot turned its head to look at her. More panels started to open up. "Bolt!" A lightning bolt from behind struck the robot blowing off a chunk of armor. The robot spun around to look at Naruto. Miniature missiles started to fire out of the panels at Naruto. "Fire!" Naruto brought both hands together and a stream of fire hit the missiles. Most of them exploded due to the extreme heat but three made it through. Naruto jumped high into the air as the portion of the bridge that he had been standing on blew up.

"Fucking bastard! Eat shit!" roared Barret charging up his gun arm. "Big Shot!" A powerful blast blew off one of the Robot's arms. It started to spark and looked to have trouble turning.

A powerful kick in the back sent the robot stumbling forward. The robot slowly turned around and started to jerk. A shadow came down from above and Naruto stabbed both ninjato through its head as he landed on its shoulders. With a vicious twist he snapped off the head. Naruto gritted his teeth as a burst of electricity from the malfunctioning robot surged through his body making him jump backwards and fall to a knee. "Naruto-kun! It's going to explode!" yelled Tifa.

Naruto had no time to dodge as the robot exploded. Barret held Tifa back as Naruto had been caught in the blast. Tifa ran to the large hole to see Naruto hanging on to a piece of metal with burns all over his body. "Naruto-kun!"

"You going to be alright?" asked Barret lamely.

"I'll meet you back in Sector 7. Get out of here before more reinforcements arrive," said Naruto. He glanced at Tifa and nodded before releasing his grip. Tifa yelled as Naruto plummeted downward. Barret grabbed Tifa and took off running just as Mako Reactor 5 started to explode.

Sector 6: Church

Aeris hummed a light tune as she tended to her flowers. She smiled as she knew this batch would be even prettier then the last. A smashing sound made her look up. Her eyes widened in surprise as the roof came falling down. She quickly ran out of the way as debris slammed onto the ground. Then right after that debris, a man came falling down. It looked like he would fall on his back, but instead flipped around at the last moment and hit the ground in a crouch.

That sure had been interesting. She took a good look at the man as the dust settled down. He had wild untamed blonde hair, stood at a height of five foot nine, wore a mask to cover his face, looked like a ninja with his clothes, and had the most beautiful eyes she had ever seen. Never had she seen such a shade of blue. Not even the eyes of a SOLDIER member could compare. He turned to look right at her. "You destroyed my flowers," said Aeris walking towards him.

The man looked down and saw the ruined flower bed. "Gomen," he apologized.

"That didn't sound very sincere," smiled Aeris.

He tilted his head. "Gomenasai." Aeris laughed as that sounded the same as the first one. "It's ok. They will grow back. My name is Aeris. Do you have a name?"

"Uzumaki Naruto."

"Fishcake? What a cute name," smiled Aeris. Naruto looked at her emotionlessly. He then looked up. "What sector of the Slums am I in?" asked Naruto.

"This is Sector 6," smiled Aeris.

Naruto narrowed his eyes and turned to look at the new person that had appeared. A man with spiky red hair and wore a black suit entered the church with a smirk on his face. Aeris frowned as she looked at the man. "Hey, want to do me a big favor?"

Naruto looked at her curiously. "Do you think you could become my bodyguard for a bit? Just help me get out of here and take me home?" Aeris gave a beautiful smile that would have made any other man agree instantly.

"If you will tell me the way to Sector 7. I have never been to Sector 6," said Naruto.

"Deal," smiled Aeris. Naruto nodded and pulled out a kunai. He walked towards the red haired man who looked at him amused. "Wait. Don't fight here. You'll ruin the flowers. Let's sneak out the back." Aeris gave a pleading look before running towards the back. Naruto gave one last glance at the man in the suit before putting away his kunai and disappearing in a swirl of leaves. A surprised look appeared in the eyes of the red haired man.

Break

Naruto looked at Aeris curiously as the young woman panted heavily after all that running. She had a very unique chakra signature. He felt as if he should know her from somewhere but didn't know why. How could he possibly know someone he had never met? "Thanks. I really appreciate the help," smiled Aeris. "My home isn't too far from here."

"Ok." The two started to walk towards her house. Aeris looked at him curiously. "Hey, do you have any Materia by chance?" she asked.

"Hai."

"I should have known. I have materia myself but it doesn't do anything," smiled Aeris.

"All materia does something."

"Nope, mine does nothing. But I keep it because it is the only memento I have from my real mother. I feel safe just having it," smiled Aeris. The woman is good, but not that good. Naruto could detect the lie. Besides, as he said, all materia did something.

She clasped her hands behind her back and smiled mischievously. "So Naruto-kun. I don't really have much money, but I was thinking I could repay you by going out on a date with you."

He glanced at her but remained emotionless. "I thought we agreed that you would tell me how to get to Sector 7."

"You're no fun," smiled Aeris. "What is in Sector 7 anyway?"

"A friend of mine. I told her I would be coming back."

"Oh it's a her is it? She your girlfriend?" teased Aeris. Hiding the little bit of jealousy at the thought.

"She is a friend that is a girl if that is what you are implying," frowned Naruto feeling as if he were missing something. Aeris giggled. "Come on. My home is this way." He followed her into what looked to be a sad excuse for a town. Just a bunch of people living in the garbage. Then again, that is basically the entire slums. Naruto followed Aeris to the back of the town. They walked for five more minutes before coming to a house that is completely out of place in the slums. It looked like something that would be on the plate.

A two-story house surrounded by a beautiful lush garden right here in the slums. It seemed surreal. Now Naruto had to wonder what kept the more violent bums from taking this place as their own. He glanced at Aeris. She is either stronger then she lets on or someone is protecting her and that fear of retaliation is preventing anyone from attacking her home. "Mom, I'm home!" yelled Aeris.

A short pretty woman came out from the kitchen. Naruto estimated her to be forty or so even though she looked to be in her thirties. "I was worried about you dear." The woman looked at Naruto. "Who is your friend?"

"This is Naruto. He is my bodyguard," smiled Aeris cheerfully.

"Bodyguard? Don't tell me they were after you again. You must be more careful," said the woman worried.

Again? So this isn't the first time Shinra had been after Aeris. What would Shinra want with Aeris? She did not have the potential to be a fighter. Not from how easily tired she got from physical activities nor from her personality. He found himself growing interest in Aeris's connection with Shinra. "Come on Naruto. You must be tired from the fall and protecting me. Why don't you go upstairs and take a shower then get some rest? I can take you to Sector 7 tomorrow," smiled Aeris.

"Arigato," bowed Naruto. A nice shower did sound nice. Here in the slums showers were rare. One should never pass up the opportunity to take one. He did however want to leave right afterwards. The sooner he got to Sector 7 the faster he would find out whether or not Tifa and the others had returned safe.

Nighttime rolled around and Naruto climbed out of bed. He then walked out of his room and walked up to where he knew Aeris to be sleeping. A light knock on the door. "Naruto?"

"Hai. I would like to get going now if it is ok," said Naruto.

The door opened to reveal Aeris fully dressed. "I thought for sure you would try to sneak away."

"Where would I go? I don't know the way to Sector 7." He looked at her curiously earning a giggle from Aeris. Aeris found that look to be extremely cute. "Come on. We can't wake up my mom or she will worry all night," she smiled.

It didn't take Aeris long to take Naruto to the gates of Sector 7. Outside the gates there was a small park that Naruto had walked past one time when traveling to Sector 7 from Sector 5. "Hey come sit with me." Aeris climbed on top of a moogle shaped slide. Naruto looked at her curiously. She gasped in surprise when Naruto suddenly appeared next to her. "Wow. You're fast."

Naruto took a seat next to Aeris. He couldn't explain it, but he found her presence to be soothing. Like when he is around Tifa. "I used to play here all the time when I was younger," smiled Aeris hugging her knees to her chest. "Were you born in the slums?"

"No."

Aeris smiled, "well, where are you from? A conversation consists more of one worded answers."

He nodded his head in understanding. "I am from Konoha."

"Konoha? I have never heard of such a place," frowned Aeris. "Is it far away from here?" Naruto nodded. "I have always wanted to explore the world. But I don't know much about the outside world."

"You'll never learn if you stay here," said Naruto.

A smirk appeared on Aeris's face. That may have seemed cold, but it had been the truth. She found herself liking how blunt he spoke. He didn't sugarcoat his words. Merely told the truth. "You're right. Maybe I will go out and explore the world. Any way I could get you to be my bodyguard on my journey?" she teased.

"I can't."

"I figured as much," smiled Aeris. They didn't speak further when the gates to Sector 7 opened and Naruto stood up sensing a familiar presence. A cart pulled by a chocobo came out of Sector 7. Aeris and Naruto watched as the cart turned and there in the back a beautiful woman with black hair stood wearing a very revealing blue dress. "Who is that?"

"Tifa," said Naruto. He hopped off the slide and started to walk towards Sector 5. Aeris ran up next to him earning a curious look. "What? Am I not allowed to come along?"

"It could be dangerous."

"I live in the slums. Everything is dangerous. I am a big girl, I can handle myself," smirked Aeris confidently.

"Very well," nodded Naruto.

Sector 5 Don Corneo's Mansion

Tifa walked past the henchmen with a fake smile on her face before entering her temporary room. Kami she hated being here. Those looks and stares. The way they ogled her as if she were a piece of meat for their entertainment. It made her feel so dirty and she wanted nothing more then to beat the shit out of them. Once she got the information she needed out of the pig, Don Corneo she would take some time to beat the crap out of him and his men.

Outside the mansion, Naruto and Aeris stood in front of a man who blocked the entrance. "Where do you think you are going? This is Corneo's mansion. No one is allowed in," said the man arrogantly.

"We are looking for a friend. Her name is Tifa," smiled Aeris.

"Oh yeah. That's the name of the new girl that showed up. I really wish I could get a piece of that. You see every day Don gets three new girls and picks one from those three. He then gives us the other two," smirked the man. Aeris scowled inwardly but kept a smile on her face on the outside. Naruto on the other hand responded by punching the man in the face. The man dropped to the ground like a sack of potatoes. Naruto then kicked the body into a nearby alley. He then walked into the mansion at a calm pace.

"Um I think we should plan this out," said Aeris.

Naruto stepped through the door and a man wearing a suit looked up at them. The man's mouth opened but instead of words, blood spilled out of it as a kunai pierced him through the throat. Aeris gulped a bit in fear as Naruto hadn't even looked when he threw that kunai. She quickly ran up the stairs and stepped over two more bodies. Looks like he is some type of ninja after all. She quickly caught up to Naruto who headed down the stairs leading to the basement after killing everyone in every room. There is one room he passed by but Aeris had been so lost in the bloodshed that she didn't notice.

"Was that necessary?" asked Aeris.

"I don't like those who looked down upon women. A comrade of mine was once captured and raped countless times until her mind broke. All for their own amusement. As far as I am concerned, such men are not needed in the world," replied Naruto not in the least bit remorseful. Aeris didnt ask any further having no idea what that must have felt like to Naruto. That had to be the first time he showed any real emotion since she met him.

There in the basement all alone stood Tifa in her blue dress that did nothing to hide her curves. Naruto even felt his temperature rise at seeing her wear such an outfit. Not in a negative way. He quickly controlled it and walked up to the woman who had her back turned. "Tifa."

She spun around. "Naruto-kun? What are you doing here?"

"Looking for you. Why are you here?"

Tifa glanced at Aeris. "Oh hi. I'm Aeris. A friend of Naruto's."

"Uh hi. I'm Tifa, a pleasure to meet you." Tifa wondered where Naruto met Aeris, but didn't ask. More important things to discuss. "When we got back to base, there was a man crawling around the bar. Barret interrogated him and found out that he worked for Don Corneo. I came here in hopes of posing as a prospective girl in order to get close to him then get any information he knows."

Naruto nodded understanding the situation. "I will speak with him. You and Aeris wait outside."

"Naruto-"

"I think it would be best to let Naruto do it," said Aeris. Tifa frowned. "Naruto is pretty intimidating. I am sure you know that already." She couldn't argue with that. Tifa nodded as Naruto disappeared in a cloud of smoke. The two girls ran up the stairs making small talk as they did.

Break

Tifa had changed into her normal clothes. It felt so much better to get out of that dress. Though she planned on keeping it for future use. She is still a woman after all. And she did like nice things such as dresses and jewelry. "So, how did you meet Naruto?"

"He kind of fell on top of me," smiled Aeris.

"What?"

"I'm serious. He fell through the roof of the church that I was in. Weird way to meet a person right? Then afterwards he helped save me from some men that were after me."

Tifa smiled, "sounds like how I met him. I fell off a bridge and suddenly this blonde hair boy saved me. We have been friends since." The two woman giggled.

In a cloud of smoke Naruto appeared in front of them. "How does he do that?" wondered Aeris.

"Don't bother asking. Just accept that he is weird," winked Tifa. They giggled some more as Naruto tilted his head. "We need to get to Sector 7. Shinra plans to crush AVALANCHE by destroying the plate over Sector 7."

Tifa and Aeris's eyes went wide in horror. "They couldn't. What about all the innocent people?" Naruto just looked at Tifa and that is all she needed to know that he wasn't kidding around.

Sector 7

Naruto, Tifa, and Aeris arrived at the plate to see a battle going on. Gun fire filled the air and dozens of Shinra troops were fighting the members of AVALANCHE. Tifa gasped not believing the sight. They were really going to kill hundreds of people just to get to them. What kind of monsters were they? "This is horrible," gasped Aeris.

"We have to stop them," said Tifa.

"Hai," nodded Naruto running towards Biggs who was being overwhelmed by Shinra troops. Aeris was about to go help, but Tifa stopped her. "Wait. I need you to do me a favor. At my bar there is a little girl, named Marlene."

Aeris smiled, "I understand." The flower girl headed off in the opposite direction as Tifa ran towards Naruto. By the time she reached him, six Shinra troops lie on the ground dead. Naruto kneeled down over Biggs who had been shot several times. The ninja cast cure healing most of the wounds. "Leave me. Go help Barret and the others," wheezed Biggs weakly.

Tifa and Naruto nodded before they left. Naruto formed a cross shaped seal and a clone popped into existence. It ran towards Biggs. Tifa glared as she saw three Shinra soldiers blocking the stairs. In a blur she appeared before them. A foot slammed into the face of one before Tifa spun around backhanding another. The last tried to shoot her, but she ducked down and swept his legs out. Then raising her leg up high, she slammed it down on his temple knocking him out cold. Naruto had already headed up the stairs at chuunin level speeds. She followed after him.

The two battled their way up to the plate. Halfway there, they came upon a severely wounded Wedge. Naruto cast a couple cure spells before creating a clone to take care of their comrade. The two continued on their way. Tifa delivered a spinning back kick to the head of a Shinra Captain. Naruto weaved in and out of bullet fire before tossing a dozen of shuriken. All flew true striking several Shinra troops in the throat or between the eyes.

Higher they went up. Until they came upon the last member of AVALANCHE besides Barret, Jesse. Jesse had a broken leg and blood poured from a wound on the back of her head. She lie on the ground out cold, but with a faint heart beat. Naruto cast a powerful cure spell before having another clone take care of her. "Barret is in trouble," yelled Tifa.

Naruto nodded as he picked up the speed having fallen behind taking care of Jesse. He quickly caught up to Tifa who had reached the top and started to help Barret take on a group of Shinra troops. "Die you mother fucking bitches!" yelled Barret firing all over the place.

Tifa slammed her knee into the chest of a Shinra troop before delivering a massive combo that sent him flying over the edge. Naruto raised his hand which started to glow red, he then thrust it forward released an intense torrent of flames. He watched emotionless as three Shinra troops were burnt to a crisp. Barret took out the last two with a smirk. "Not bad. It seems you all got some skills," said a new voice.

Naruto turned to see that red haired man, that had been in Sector Five, by the controls of the plate. "Name is Reno of the Turks. I am afraid that you are too late though. The bomb has already been activated," smirked the man.

"We need to shut off that bomb," said Tifa getting into her fighting stance.

Barret raised his gun, "I am going to blow your fucking head off." Reno smirked before running forward and slamming the hilt of his staff into Barret's gut. A look of pain appeared in Barret's eyes. Reno brought his staff up into the larger man's jaw. Reno then did a spinning jump kick to knock Barret backwards. "So much for you blowing off my head." Reno looked over at Tifa and his eyes roamed her body from head to toe and toe to head. Tifa scowled as she ran forward. Reno dodged rapidly as Tifa delivered a series of jabs before delivering a high kick. He raised his staff blocking it but the power behind the kick sent him skidding backwards. Naruto suddenly appeared behind Reno and went to stab him through the back. Reno managed to spin around and parry the thrust.

"You're good," smirked Reno jumping backwards.

Naruto kept his eyes locked on Reno. "Tifa get Barret and try to defuse the bomb. I will handle him."

"Right," nodded Tifa running over to the controls. Barret cursed but went to help Tifa. Naruto tossed three kunai, but Reno dodged to the side. In an instant Naruto was in front of Reno, his ninjato coming at the Turk's neck. Reno gritted his teeth as he blocked the slash with his staff, but a kick to the stomach sent him rolling. The Turk quickly rose to his feet and dodged as Naruto tried to cut him in half.

Reno then swung his staff, but Naruto used his arm band to block the blow. A snap kick to the jaw sent Reno stumbling backwards. Naruto's hand started to glow an icy blue and Reno's eyes widened. Thrusting his hand forward, dozens of small ice icicles flew at Reno. The Turk gritted as he could only protect his vitals while his arms and legs were severely cut up. Naruto was about to go in for the killing blow when a gunshot filled the air and Naruto jumped back just in time to avoid being hit. The ninja turned his head to see a man in a helicopter pointing a gun right at him. "That will be enough. Reno get on board," ordered the man.

The man had long black hair tied back in a ponytail and wore the same black suit as Reno. Naruto gripped his ninjato but the man kept his gun locked on him. "I got this bastard," smirked Barret.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you. Or I might have to hurt your friend," said the man. He dragged a familiar woman to view. Barret frowned in confusion. "Aeris," yelled Tifa. With a curse, Barret lowered his gun. Naruto stood down as well allowing Reno to climb aboard the copter. "You sure do know when to show up Tseng," smirked Reno.

Aeris smiled, "don't worry she is safe."

"Quiet," yelled Tseng slapping Aeris. "What do you want with Aeris?" demanded Tifa.

"Shinra has plans for the last Cetra or Ancient. What they are you don't need to know as you will be dead soon," said Tseng. He gave the pilot the signal and the copter took off just as an explosion went off. The plate had started to self-destruct. Naruto put a hand on Tifa and Barret. All three of them disappeared in a swirl of leaves. Screams filled the air as the people of the slums in Sector 7 were crushed by the falling plate.

Break

"Damn it all to hell!" Barret started to fire his gun in anger at the fallen plate. Naruto sat on the ground with a tired look while Tifa tried to calm Barret down. That long distance teleportation had severely hurt his chakra reserves. "Calm down," said Tifa.

Barret turned to face Tifa, "I can't calm down. Those bastards at Shinra, look what they did! Biggs, Wedge, Jesse, and Marlene! All of them are dead!" The man collapsed to his knees holding back the tears that wanted to fall at losing his daughter.

"They are safe." Barret and Tifa turned to look at Naruto.

"The fuck you talking about?" demanded Barret getting right in Naruto's face.

Naruto looked at him with that same emotionless look. "Jesse, Wedge, Biggs, and Marlene are all safe. My clones took the former three to an inn in Sector Five to get healed. As for Marlene, Aeris took her to Sector 6. Marlene is with Aeris's mother."

"That's right. Aeris said 'she is safe.' I bet she was talking about Marlene," said Tifa.

Barret wiped his eyes. "Well what the fuck are we waiting around here for? Let's go check on Marlene then check on the others." Naruto glanced at Tifa who nodded. The ninja stood up and led the way.

Sector 6: Aeris's Home

Just as Tifa and Naruto had assumed, Marlene had been safe and sound with Mrs. Gainsborough. Barret thanked her profusely as he went to spend time with Marlene who he had thought to be dead less then ten minutes ago. While Barret spent time with Marlene, Mrs. Gainsborough made some tea for Tifa and Naruto. "We're sorry for what happened to Aeris," apologized Tifa.

"It isn't your fault. Shinra has been after her for a long time. I guess they finally grew tired of waiting," smiled Mrs. Gainsborough sadly.

"Why are they after her?" asked Naruto.

Mrs. Gainsborough gained a far away look. "She is an Ancient." Naruto and Tifa had no idea what that meant. "An ancient race of people that are all extinct except for her. Twelve years ago, I had been waiting for my husband to return from the war. I remember waiting all day for him to show up. But he never came. Each day I went back to see if he would come but he never did. One day I came early and found a dying woman with a little girl. I tried to help her but there was nothing I could do. She asked me to take care of her daughter, Aeris." Mrs. Gainsborough took a sip from her tea. "Ever since she was little Aeris had been a special child. She could hear voices. One day she came down and told me not to be sad. That he had tried to reach me, but had returned to the planet. A week later, I received a notice that my husband had died."

Tifa had a consoling look. Naruto remained Naruto. "Every time Shinra would show up, Aeris would run away or pretend as if she didn't have any powers. I pretended not to notice. She is my daughter and always will be. Whether she is an ancient or not." Mrs. Gainsborough gave a sad smile before standing up. "If you'll excuse me. I am going to tend to the garden." The woman left leaving Naruto and Tifa alone.

They sat in silence before Naruto stood up. He headed towards the door. "Are you going to help Aeris?" asked Tifa.

"Hai."

"I coming with you." Naruto glanced at Tifa who had a look of determination. She would not take no for an answer. He nodded. The sound of someone barreling down the stairs could be heard. Barret came running down the steps. "Yo, you are going after that girl right? I'm coming too. The least I can do for her taking care of Marlene. Plus, I owe Shinra some pay back."

"Let's go," said Naruto, Tifa and Barret following behind him.

Break

Shinra Headquarters. The tallest building in the city of Midgar. It had over sixty floors and housed over two hundred employees. The building could be seen for up to a mile away from those heading towards Midgar. Quite an intimidating sight to tell the truth. Emerging from a sewer lid, Naruto jumped out landing lightly on his feet. Tifa and Barret climbed out behind him. The three looked at Shinra Headquarters. "Damn just looking at that thing makes me sick," glared Barret.

"I heard that any floor above sixty you need a special card to get to," said Tifa.

"Too much mako interference. I can't pinpoint what floor Aeris is on," said Naruto.

Barret smirked, "who gives a fuck. I say we bust in there and start popping heads."

Tifa sighed. "If we do that then we will be facing an entire army. We need to find a way to sneak in." Barret scowled at the idea. Both turned to look at Naruto for the final vote.

"We will sneak in." Tifa smiled and Barret grumbled. The trio headed towards the building looking for a way to sneak in undetected.

They found a side entrance that was actually a flight of stairs that went all the way up to the fifty-ninth floor. Naruto didn't have a problem running up the stairs. Barret on the other hand is a completely different story. The entire way he cussed and almost collapsed after going fifteen flight of stairs. By the time they reached the top, Barret fell face forward on the ground. "Son of a bitch. (pant) Next time (gasp) we bust in the fucking front door," panted Barret.

"Sure does take it out of you," panted Tifa. She wasn't as beat as Barret, but still had been tired out by running up fifty-nine flights of stairs.

"We should keep moving," said Naruto. That earned him a glare from the two.

"You know. Maybe I had you wrong. Never figured you for the type of person who fought for someone else," panted Barret.

Naruto frowned behind his mask. "That doesn't make sense. I fought for AVALANCHE." Barret shut up after that as he remembered that Naruto had helped them and didn't even receive paid. Naruto had helped out a favor to Tifa. A grumbled escaped Barret annoyed at Naruto for being so damn smart.

"Ok, I'm ready," said Tifa catching her second wind.

"Yeah I am ready too," grunted Barret. Naruto nodded as he picked the door and silently opened it. Slowly, he entered to find them on a completely empty floor. Or almost empty except for the three Shinra guards standing at the other side of the hall by the elevators. "What the fuck are you waiting for?!" yelled Barret.

The three Shinra guards turned to look right at Naruto. "Get the intruders!" Naruto started to run forward as they drew their guns. By the time they had drawn their weapons Naruto was upon them. He thrust his ninjato through the chest of the Shinra guard in the middle. Turning to left and grabbing hold of the gun, Naruto took down a second guard littering him with bullets. The third tried to shoot Naruto, but he used the first guard as a shield. All the bullets made the body of the first guard that Naruto killed spasm uncontrollably.

Naruto was about to make his move but stopped mid-step. The third and final guard went down with bullets to the head and side. Naruto let the guard he used as a shield drop to the ground lifelessly. "No way am I letting you get all the fun," smirked Barret.

Tifa kneeled down and picked up a keycard that had fallen off the second guard Naruto took out. "Look. A keycard for the 60th floor." She handed it to Naruto who put it in his pouch. "I'll remove the bodies. You two get in the elevator," said Naruto. Barret and Tifa let Naruto clear away any evidence. Naruto piled the bodies up then used a powerful Fire spell to burn them to a crisp. He then made a set of hand seals and in three clouds of smoke three clones appeared. They henged into identical replicas of the Shinra guards that had just been burned to ashes. Naruto nodded at them before entering the elevator.

Level 66: Shinra Headquarters Conference Room

President Shinra took a seat at the head of the conference table. Reeves and Scarlet took a seat on the President's right. Heidegger and Palmer sat on the President's left. Reeves began speaking. "The damage reports from Sector 7 have results in ten billions worth of damage. The estimated cost of rebuilding sector 7-"

"We are not rebuilding Sector 7," said President Shinra.

"What?" exclaimed a surprised Reeves.

"We are leaving Sector 7 as is and restarting the Neo-Midgar plan."

"Then the Ancients?"

"The promised land is within our grasp. I want you to raise the Mako rates by 15 percent in every area."

Palmer, a fat man wearing an ugly brown suit started to smile happily. "Rate hike! Please include our space program within the budget!"

"Reeve and Scarlet will divide the extra income from the rate increase," said Shinra. Palmer groaned at hearing that.

Reeve spoke up again, "sir if you increase the rates then the people will begin to lose confidence."

"It'll be alright." President Shinra spoke in an uncaring and self-assured manner. "The ignorant citizens won't lose confidence, they'll trust Shinra Inc. even more." Heidegger started to laugh. The man's stomach jiggled as he laughed in a deep, santa like voice. A smirk appeared on Heidegger's face. "After all, we are the ones who saved Sector 7 from AVALANCHE." Reeve frowned not liking this one bit.

The doors to the room opened and in walked a thin man wearing a white lab coat. He had long black hair tied back into a pony tail. There was a hint of insanity in the man's eyes. "Hojo. How is the girl?" asked Shinra.

"As a specimen she is inferior to her mother. I am in the process of comparing them and the difference is at 18 percent," replied Hojo dispassionately. The scientist adjusted his glasses.

"How long will it take you to research her?"

"Probably 120 years. It's probably impossible to finish in our lifetime or more importantly in the lifetime of the specimen. That is why we are considering breeding her. This way we can create a specimen that can withstand the full extent of our research over time."

"What about the Promised Land? Won't it hinder our plans?" A smile appeared on Hojo's face and he started to laugh insanely. "That is what I need to plan for. The mother is strong yet has her weaknesses," spoke the scientist.

Shinra stood up, "that concludes our meeting." They all started to file out of the room never noticing that the entire meeting had been heard by three individuals hiding in the vents.

Floor 67 Shinra Headquarters

Naruto, Tifa, and Barret made it all the way to the sixty seventh floor. They didn't bother to hide themselves as the people working here didn't even give them a second glance. It would seem as if working at Shinra the people were used to seeing all strange things. A black man with a gun arm and a man wearing armor with two ninjato on his back didn't even phase them in the least. Tifa relatively blended in except she drew the attention of every male. But that was nothing uncommon. "I hate this place," grumbled Barret. "Why the fuck they have to have so many damn floors? The stairs were bad enough."

"Keep it down. Or people will hear you and know we aren't supposed to be here," whispered Tifa.

Naruto walked ahead following the chakra signature of that man known as Hojo. Professor Hojo. That name sounded familiar. He had definitely heard that somewhere before. Just couldn't recall where or when. That could only mean that it had been in Nibelheim during the incident that happened five years ago. He could remember everything except what happened during that incident. So he could only assume that is when he heard about this Hojo.

He followed the scientist all the way to what looked to be some type of storage area. Crates and items filled the place. Naruto pulled Barret and Tifa into the shadows. Barret was about to curse, but Naruto gave a burst of killing intent to paralyze the man just enough to make him fall silent. Hojo walked right past them without a second glance muttering about something. Once he had left, Naruto nodded and stepped out of the shadows. "Don't do that shit again," shivered Barret.

"Gomen." Barret gained a tick as that didn't sound apologetic in the least.

"Look. How could they be so cruel to keep such an animal locked up?" said Tifa looking into a glass chamber. There lying in the chamber seemingly asleep, lie what seemed to be a cross between a dog and wolf with crimson red fur. The end of the tail looked as if it were on fire. Naruto walked over to a dome. Raising his hand, he wiped away a large amount of dust. His eyes narrowed as he read the name of the unit. Jenova. A rush of memories hit him

"It is time for us to take back this planet mother," smiled Sephiroth. The sound of something piercing flesh filled the air. A stunned look appeared in Sephiroth's eyes as he looked down to see a blade sticking out of his chest where his heart was located. The blade was yanked out viciously and Sephiroth fell to a knee coughing up blood. Sephiroth slowly stood up and turned around to see Naruto who had blood pouring profusely from a hole in his chest. "You."

Naruto stared down the man without an ounce of fear. "I will kill you traitor!" yelled Sephiroth charging forward.

Naruto snapped out of his memory. Well that explained a bit of what happened. Sephiroth must have incredible regenerative abilities. To be able to move let alone breathe after being stabbed through the heart is nothing short of a miracle. Still, it didn't explain what had happened before that. "What you looking at?" Barret walked up and looked through the small glass. The man frowned. "The fuck. It is a head."

"Jenova. The same Jenova that had been in the Nibelheim Mako Reactor," said Naruto.

"What?" gasped Tifa.

"I remember Sephiroth calling it his mother," stated Naruto.

Tifa frowned, "could that be why?" She left it hanging.

"Possibly. Sephiroth was never the most stable person to begin with. At least not from what I remember of him."

"The fuck are you two talking about?" frowned Barret so confused.

"Doesn't matter. I can sense Aeris above us. There is an elevator over there we can take," pointed Naruto to the back of the storage place. The ninja sensed a materia nearby and walked over to the corner of the storage place. There were two materia. Drawing his ninjato, he stood in front of a metal crate. He channeled his wind natured chakra through it and with a couple strokes sliced it into pieces. Two materia rolled towards him. Kneeling down he picked them up. A crystal blue materia and a green, radioactive looking materia. Instantly he knew what they were. "Poison and Elemental." A support materia and a type of elemental materia.

Naruto raised his right arm and connected the Elemental materia to his Fire materia. That would give him a slight immunity to fire based attacks. At least the weak ones. He then put the Poison materia underneath his Ice materia in his left arm band. Doubtful he would waste time using it, but having it on him would help him feed chakra to it. Materia grew stronger the more it is used. To use materia, one basically tapped into their own life-force in order to activate it. The people here couldn't feel the pull of their chakra unless using the more powerful materia, but Naruto who had been raised to control his chakra, could. So even if he didn't use it, he could channel a small amount of chakra to the materia making it stronger even when he didn't use it.

"You coming?" yelled Barret.

Naruto stepped into the elevator between Barret and Tifa. The three rode the elevator up to the next floor. It came to a stop and the doors opened. Tifa eyes widened, Barret cursed, and Naruto shot forward. There in a glass tube stood Aeris and that creature that they had saw in the lower level. A swirling ball of chakra formed in Naruto's right hand. He thrust his right hand forward slamming it right into the glass. Cracks started to form and Naruto gritted his teeth pumping more chakra into his Rasengan. The glass exploded in all directions and Naruto winced as a couple pieces slashed his arm.

A certain scientist who witnessed the display made a mental note before silently making his escape. "Naruto! I just knew you would come for me!" yelled Aeris with a large smile. She wrapped Naruto up in a hug but let him go when he winced. Her eyes widened as she looked at his arm. Tifa had a jealous look in her eyes but it quickly disappeared at her happiness to see Aeris safe. "Hold still. I will cure it," said Aeris. Green magic washed over Naruto healing his arm. All the cuts slowly closed up until not even a scar remained.

"Arigato," nodded Naruto gratefully.

"What the fuck do we do about this thing?" yelled Barret pointing his gun at the red-furred creature.

The creature sat down on its hind. "I am not a thing. Please don't refer to me in such a manner." To say the entire group was stunned by the creature talking would be an understatement. Well except Naruto who had met animals who could talk.

"You talk?" gasped Tifa.

"Yes. I can speak quite well. I can also do many other things." The creature turned to look at Aeris. "I hope you can forgive me. I merely put on that display to make Hojo happy. I never planned on doing anything."

Aeris nodded, "it's ok. I understand."

"Do you have a name?" grunted Barret.

"Hojo called me Red XIII. You may call me that as well if you like," answered the creature in a cultured, sage-like voice.

"Gomen, but what are you?" asked Tifa curiously.

"A complicated question to answer. I am, what you see. That is the best answer I can supply you with," stated Red. Tifa nodded kind of confused.

"We have been surrounded," said Naruto. Everyone looked at him confused. That confused look didn't stay for long when Shinra infantrymen came bursting into the room. Barret raised his gun, but Naruto stood in front of him. "Another time." A growl escaped Barret as he reluctantly stood down.

President Shinra's Office: 70th Floor

Naruto, Tifa, Barret, and Red stood in front of the President. Red is the only one who didn't have his limbs bound in cuffs. For added protection, several Turks were in the room keeping a close eye on the AVALANCHE members. "It seems that you managed to escape the destruction of Sector 7. What a waste," said President Shinra in a voice that let them all know he didn't really care.

"You son of a bitch. I'll kill-" Barret never finished as a black man in a Turks outfit and wearing a pair of sunglasses punched him right in the stomach. "Nice one Rude," smirked a female Turk with brown hair.

President walked out from behind his desk. The man walked right up to Naruto. "You obviously came here for something. Why don't you ask for it? Try to make a deal?"

"No point. I'll find it soon enough," said Naruto emotionlessly.

"Confident aren't we? I wonder if you would be so confident if you didn't have that mask to hide behind." Shinra went to grab the mask, but his hand never reached Naruto's face. Blood spilled out of the president's mouth as Naruto slammed his knee into the man's stomach. "I wonder if you are still the confident one," said Naruto. The sound of gun clicking made Naruto glance to his right to find Tseng with a gun pointed right at his head.

"I wouldn't try that again," said Tseng.

"I would get him some medical attention. I shattered one of his ribs, maybe two," replied Naruto not in the least bit intimidated. President Shinra continued to cough up blood.

Barret smirked. Yeah, he definitely liked Naruto. Tseng nodded at his subordinates. They all started to push the AVALANCHE members and Red out of the room. Tseng picked up the president and headed towards the private elevator.

Break

Naruto and Tifa had been locked in the same cell together. Barret and Red were locked in the cell to the right of them. Naruto sensed a familiar presence. He walked up to the wall and started to speak much to Tifa's confusion. "Are you ok?" asked Naruto.

A slight silence filled the air. "Naruto? Is that you?" Tifa's eyes widened as she recognized that voice. Aeris.

"Hai."

"I knew that Naruto would come for me."

"How did you know?" asked Naruto curiously.

Tifa giggled a bit. He is still so naïve. "I just knew you wouldn't leave me trapped with Shinra. Call it a woman's intuition," smiled Aeris from on the other side of the wall. A confused look appeared in Naruto's eyes.

"Don't bother Aeris. Naruto-kun will never understand," laughed Tifa.

"Tifa!? You there too?"

"Hai. I am glad you are safe," smiled Tifa. "I have a question if you don't mind."

"Um sure, what is it?" asked Aeris.

"Does the Promised Land really exist?"

There was a momentary silence. "I don't know. All I know is this. The Cetra were born from the planet. Speak to the planet and unlock the planet. And then the Cetra will return to the Promised Land. A land that promises supreme happiness."

Tifa had a confused look, "what does that mean?"

Aeris sighed, "more than words…I don't know."

"How do you speak with the planet? What does it say?" asked Tifa curiously.

"It is full of people and noise. I can't make out what it says. I, I only ever heard it at the Church in the Slums. Mother said that Midgar was no longer safe. My real mother that is," said Aeris taking a seat on her bed. "Someday, I'll get out of Midgar, speak with the planet and find my Promised Land. That's what mother said. I thought I would stop hearing her voice as I grew up, but.."

The doors to all three rooms suddenly slid open. There in the doorway stood a Shinra Captain. Tifa tensed wondering what they wanted, but to her surprise Naruto walked right past them. In a cloud of smoke all three disappeared. "What the fuck was that?" yelled Barret running out of his room.

"I would like to know as well. Though I am not complaining about being freed," said Red.

Aeris and Tifa looked at Naruto who didn't have any surprise at all. "Clones that were under a henge. I made them earlier to replace the three guards we killed on the fifty-ninth floor," explained Naruto.

"You can create clones?" blinked Red curiously.

Naruto suddenly tensed as did everyone else. A dark, ominous feeling filled the air. Everyone felt a shiver go down their spines. "I feel cold," whispered Aeris.

"He is here," stated Naruto. The ninja took off running. "Where the fuck is he going?" cursed Barret. Tifa didn't hesitate to follow Naruto and neither did Aeris. Red followed out of curiosity and Barret grumbled as he reluctantly followed as well.

70th Floor: President Shinra's Office

Tifa, Aeris, Barret, and Red broke into the President's office. They all stopped as they beheld the sight in front of them. There lying face down in his desk with a long nodachi through his back, was none other then President Shinra. Naruto stood in front of the desk with a cold look in his eyes. "Shit. Is he really dead?" said Barret coming up next to Naruto.

"Hai," replied Naruto.

"Who could have done this?" wondered Aeris. Tifa ran around the desk to take a closer look at the sword. "It was him. It has to be. He is the only one who can use this sword."

Naruto nodded. "Huh? What the fuck you talking about?" Barret was once again lost and confused.

"Sephiroth," answered Naruto. They didn't speak further when the sound of a helicopter filled the air. All turned to see one land on the landing platform outside the office on the oversized balcony. "Time to go."

"I bet that's Rufus. I forgot all about that asshole," cursed Barret. Alarms started to blare and a blinking red light filled the room. "We leave now," ordered Naruto. Barret cursed but started to head for the stairs the others following with Naruto bringing up the rear.

Break

Barret fired his gun arm taking out a couple of Shinra infantrymen. Red used his claws and teeth to take down his foes. "This is fucking crazy. How many of these son of bitches do they have?" grunted Barret hiding behind a pillar, as return fire headed his way.

Aeris spun her staff on the ground and slammed the end on the ground. The floor started to freeze over in a thin layer of ice. It caused several Shinra infantrymen to slip and fall. She then cast a weak Fire spell setting them on fire. Tifa came in and took them down while they were confused and distracted. "They have the whole building surrounded. We will have to find an alternate route out," said Red.

Naruto cut down his twentieth Shinra troop. "I believe there is a truck back in the back that you all can use to escape."

"What do you plan on doing?" Tifa worried.

"I will cover you," replied Naruto decapitating an opponent.

"We aren't going to leave you behind," yelled Aeris.

"I will meet up with you all after I buy you a minute or two."

"No more time to be fucking arguing. Let's get going," Barret yelled running up the flight of stairs. Tifa and Aeris sent a Naruto a look but he didn't even turn as he continued to fight. The two women followed after Barret and Red. Naruto tossed several kunai at the wall above the entrance. Each kunai had an explosive tag connected to it. The tags started to sizzle as Naruto picked up two guns and started to fire them with deadly accuracy. Screams filled the air before several explosions went off. The wall started to collapse down upon the entrance trapping the remaining Shinra troops with Naruto. The ninja tossed the empty guns to the side as he charged forward with both ninjato drawn.

Blood sprayed onto Naruto's clothes as he cut down two Shinra troops. He then threw his ninjato into the throat of another. Spinning around he deflected several bullets before blurring forward and stabbing the last Shinra right through the heart. The Shinra troop slid off his blade as Naruto turned around. He pulled his second ninjato free before placing them both back in there sheaths.

Highway

"Fuck! I will never let a damn woman drive again!" cursed Barret as he sat in the back of the truck.

Red looked sick as the truck made sharp turns and bounced around. Barret continued to fire at the pursuing Shinra troops. A curse escaped Barret as a bullet graze his shoulder. "Are you ok?" yelled Aeris. Tifa made a sharp turn causing the entire truck to lurch and almost tip over.

"I think that I have come to the conclusion that I hate driving," groaned Red.

"Die you sons of bitches!" yelled Barret.

The Shinra troops were able to maneuver much easier on their bikes. "They are catching up," yelled Barret unable to hit anything. He cursed as his ammo started to run low.

Going under a bridge, the Shinra started to catch up. An explosion occurred from above and something burst off the side of the bridge. The shadow from above descended from below and landed right in front of the four Shinra chasing the truck. "Bout damn time you showed up you bitch!" yelled Barret. There on a black bike was none other then Naruto.

Naruto didn't even respond to Barret's comment as he slowed down coming besides one of the Shinra foes. He pulled away as a sword almost took his head before tossing a kunai right at the front tire. The tire exploded and the bike spun out of control launching the Shinra man from it. Naruto heard the sound of gun fire and stood up on his bike. He then jumped off performing a graceful backflip as gun fire hit his bike and made it go up in flames. He landed right on the back of bike of a Shinra and with a twist of his hands snapped the man's neck. He then took the dead body and tossed it right at one of the remaining two Shinra troops. The dead Shinra hit the bike with such force that it spun out of control and exploded as it hit the side railing. That left only one Shinra left. Naruto leaned to the right coming up right besides them. He slowed down greatly as bullets flew through the spot he had just been in before picking up the speed. Speeding right by the Shinra troop. Naruto came to a hard stop making the bike's back tire lift off the ground. He then turned the bike on its front tire. The Shinra's troop's eyes widened as the back tire of Naruto's back slammed right into his face shattering his helmet and sending him flying onto the road.

Now that all the threats had been taken care of. Naruto kicked up the speed catching up to the truck. They continued to drive until they reached the turn that would take them out of Midgar. Surprisingly, no one else had tried to pursue them. Taking the lead, Naruto signaled for Tifa to follow him.

Break

The group had managed to make it about a mile out of Midgar before both vehicles ran out of gas. Fortunately, with the death of the President, Shinra is in a bit of disarray allowing them to escape for the time being. They camped out in the plains until morning came around. "Well what do we do now?" asked Barret.

All turned to look at Naruto. He looked down from staring up at the sky and glanced at everyone. "I will be pursuing Sephiroth. I wish to learn the truth of what happened five years ago," said Naruto standing up.

"That'll save the planet?" asked Barret.

"I don't know. But it would seem that Sephiroth and Shinra have the same goals. Otherwise, he would not have wasted his time killing the president," answered Naruto honestly.

Barret stood, "that's good enough for me. I'm coming too."

"Me too. I have many things I wish to learn," said Aeris standing up. Naruto nodded in understanding. Tifa stood up, "guess this is goodbye Midgar."

"It's settled then. Course every group needs a leader and that leader will be me," smirked Barret confidently.

Tifa frowned, "you think so?"

"I think it should be Naruto," voiced Aeris. Tifa nodded while Red looked completely uninterested.

Barret let loose a string of curses as he pouted like a child. "Fine! We'll head northeast to Kalm. It'll be a good place to stock up on supplies. And you can tell us more about this Sephiroth when we get there."

"We should split up into two parties. It will be less conspicuous that way," said Naruto changing the subject. "At Kalm we will regroup and think out our next move."

"I'll go with you," smiled Aeris running over to Naruto. "You are my bodyguard after all."

"I'll join you as well Naruto," said Tifa. The two women locked eyes for a second and a spark flew between them. Barret and Red looked at each other. Red didn't care either way while Barret grumbled about blondes getting all the girls. "Here take this," Barret tossed a yellow materia at Naruto. "No idea what it is but found it on a Shinra. Figured they didn't need it anymore."

Naruto nodded gratefully. An Enemy Skill materia. That could come in handy. He attached the materia to the hilt of his ninjato. The hilt glowed yellow before it absorbed the materia and returned to normal. The two groups took different paths to Kalm.

Kalm

The trip to Kalm had been a relatively quiet one. Aeris nor Tifa spoke much. It seemed that they still had a lot on their minds from the incident in Midgar. Naruto as usual didn't mind the silence at all. He had things on his mind as well. "This looks like a nice place," smiled Aeris as the group entered Kalm.

"Is this where you stayed Naruto-kun?" asked Tifa.

"Hai."

"What do you mean?" asked Aeris. "I thought you said you came from Konoha not Kalm." She frowned slightly.

"I am. My memories from five years ago are still a bit cluttered. Apparently, I went missing during those five years after the incident in Nibelheim. I woke up here and the doctor said I had been in a coma for five years due to a severe case of Mako poisoning. He said that chances are I had fell into the Lifestream. Or came in contact with an object with a great deal of Mako radiation," explained Naruto. "I don't remember either way. But it makes sense. If I did come into contact with such a large concentration of Mako it would explain my temporary memory loss."

Aeris nodded, "I didn't know. Do you think Sephiroth might have something to do with your Mako poisoning."

Naruto shrugged, "its possible. I do have a vague memory of the two of us fighting. But chances are Sephiroth would have killed me rather then leave me alive. That is just the type of person he is."

"How do you know?" frowned Aeris.

"Because I used to be him. A man who cares for nothing but his mission. Takes orders faithfully without question. That is exactly how I was raised. I never left behind any survivors or anyone who witnessed my actions. The most efficient way to make sure an enemy doesn't interrupt your mission is to kill them." Tifa and Aeris gained a sad look as Naruto told of his past. Each wanted to say something to console him, but the thing is they didn't know what to say. Besides, Naruto didn't sound remorseful at all. Just telling the truth in that same emotionless and uncaring manner as he always did. "Barret and Red are not here yet. I am going to check the Materia Shop." Naruto walked off on his own.

The two women watched him leave. "Is it true?" Aeris looked at Tifa.

Tifa nodded. "The similarities between him and Sephiroth are a bit frightening. Both don't know how to socialize well with others and always look at a situation in terms of a battle. To be honest, I have never even heard Naruto laugh. I haven't even seen his face."

"It's horrible," whispered Aeris.

"Come on. We should rent a room at the inn. It will be nice to relax in a bed and have a nice shower after everything we have been through," smiled Tifa.

"Good idea," smiled Aeris.

Break

Barret and Red arrived an hour after Naruto's group. It is now late in the afternoon and the group now all stayed in the same room. "Ok. Let's hear your story at the beginning. I want to know more about this Sephiroth," said Barret.

"I think it is a good idea. I wish to learn more about Sephiroth as well," said Aeris sitting down on one of the beds.

Naruto leaned against the wall and folded his arms across his chest. "It is as I told you. I don't remember much. You will have to ask Tifa to tell the story." All looked at Tifa who shifted uncomfortably.

"Well, it all started five years ago. A group of workers, my father included, sent a message to Shinra to report a malfunction at the Mako Reactor. About a month later, Shinra had sent out a small group to come fix the problem. That group included two members from SOLDIER, Sephiroth and another." Tifa paused then decided to continue. Naruto remained emotionless, but knew that Tifa left out the name of the other SOLDIER on purpose. Why? "Naruto and I had traveled Mount Nibelheim many times and were the best guides in the town. Both of us were to be the guides. A simple enough duty. We took them to the Mako Reactor without any trouble."

Tifa looked at Naruto before looking at the others. "You have to understand, Mount Nibelheim is full of monsters. Plus with the Mako Reactor leak many monsters had started to spring up. Sephiroth's mere presence kept the monster's at bay. I had never had such a peaceful walk up that mountain. A mountain that had taken the lives of many people." She continued the story. "We made it to the Mako Reactor without any problems. Naruto and I were forced to stay outside since we were not employees of Shinra. I wanted to go inside, but stayed outside with Naruto. I don't know what happened in there, but Sephiroth emerged very agitated. The other SOLDIER member tried to calm him down but Sephiroth just headed right back to Nibelheim and locked himself up in Shinra Mansion. A large mansion where Shinra employees stayed when visiting Nibelheim." Tifa looked down at her hands and continued. "I don't know what happened, but Sephiroth kept himself locked up in there for at least a week. Naruto and I were outside the town at the time."

"We had went to Cosmo Canyon," said Naruto.

"That's right," nodded Tifa. "Cosmo Canyon is only a two days walk from Nibelheim."

"I am from Cosmo Canyon," said Red. "You said you were there five years ago? I don't remember seeing you there."

"It was at full capacity at the time. I snuck us both in and we visited a few sights before leaving," remembered Naruto. "After that we left and spent the night outside Cosmo Canyon." He remembered Tifa falling asleep on his shoulder and the night being filled with stars. It had been the most peaceful moment in his entire life.

Aeris smiled hiding her own jealousy at the fact that Tifa got to spend an entire night alone with Naruto. "That sounds nice."

Tifa smiled, "afterwards we headed back to Nibelheim. Both of us saw smoke rising into the air. Naruto suddenly ran off towards the village. I couldn't even hope to catch up to him. When I finally made it to the village. The entire village was on fire and many people were dead. Master Zangan, my tutor in the martial arts, told me that Sephiroth was the one responsible and that Naruto had went to confront him. Sephiroth had headed towards the Mako Reactor." Tifa's hand clenched as she told the next part of her story. "I found Naruto barely alive outside the Mako Reactor."

Naruto couldn't remember that but an image of a younger Tifa crying over him did come to mind. "I tried to confront Sephiroth myself, but had been almost killed as well. After that I don't know what happened. Master Zangan brought me to Midgar. Official records state that Sephiroth is dead. I read it in the newspaper."

"Shinra Inc. owns the paper so you can't rely on that information," said Aeris.

"I don't understand what happened to make Sephiroth to go crazy," frowned Tifa.

"In the Mako Reactor. I remember that it held someone called Jenova. Sephiroth and I fought one more time where I managed to sneak up on him and deal a mortal wound while he had been distracted with talking to his 'mother.' Unfortunately, what would have killed a normal man, only slowed him down. What happened after that I can't remember," said Naruto.

"Jenova? Wait a fucking minute? Isn't that the headless spoke we saw in the Shinra Building?" yelled Barret.

Naruto nodded, "yes. How it got there I don't know. But I remember it had been missing when I made my way back up to the president's office. I specifically passed by that room, where they had been keeping Red XIII, thinking Sephiroth would go for Jenova. I had been right, but arrived too late. I believe he has Jenova with him now." A silence fell over the group.

"Argh! Fuck this! I am leaving the thinking to all of you!" yelled Barret getting a migraine. "I'm outta here. But take this before you go. It's a cellphone. Got my number already programmed into it. If you need anything, give a call." Barret left and headed to his own room.

"Best get some rest. Tomorrow we leave," said Naruto leaving the room as well.

"A most fascinating story," said Red, as he too left the room.