AN: Hello Bros, not much time lately, and I will be updating much less frequently, but I will make chapters a little bit longer to make up for it! Just review and tell me how you like it, or how my writing can be improved.
Note: The Hidden Ninja Villages in this fic are really 'Hidden', so anyone who is not a ninja would not be able to find the villages!
The different animal spirits include the fox, snake, toad and slug. Of course, there are more, but these are some of those revealed in canon. In this AU, any of the different animal spirits may choose to roam the world freely, but they would disguise themselves as human obviously. of the spirits, the ones with the strongest ties to the humans would be the Toad Spirits of Mt. Myoboku. Basically, they want to help humans, so under the guise of exorcists, they would help protect humans against the more antagonistic spirits like the fox and snake spirits.
Also, I would like to thank my reviewers, some of who have reviewed my story multiple times! Thanks naruhinalover and neolucious!
To naruhinalover: Naruto is 8 currently.
After the jump!
The moon hung high in the sky, bathing the path in a eerie light. The way to the Shogun's Fortress was paved in cobblestone, a ten-foot wide road bustling with activity. As the chirping of the cicadas permeated the forest, so the shouts of irate farmers and the pounding of horses' hooves on the pavement filled the area. Carts, carriages and horses lined up in an unending stream leading into the gates of the Fortress; Samurai kept order along the road, and many sported scars on their exposed forearms and faces. Their foreboding visages left little to imagine of what they would do to lawbreakers.
The Shogun's Fortress itself was a magnificent edifice. It stood as the ultimate bastion of the Samurai; whitewashed battlements loomed high into the sky, a marvel of modern innovation and architecture. Giant crossbows so large they had to be pulled along on wheels were drawn and armed, samurai warriors too many to count watched over the battlements, hands resting on the sheaths of their katanas. At the top of the structure burnt a flame so bright it seemed like the sun; it pierced the night, shining as a beacon and seemed like a guide for any unfortunate person lost in the darkness.
Suffice to say Naruto was extremely uncomfortable. He was sure Hinata would be too, but she had not woken up since her ordeal the day before. He had spent almost his entire life within the boundaries of Konoha, although on certain occasions he roamed deep into the forest surrounding the village. This was the first time he experienced the press of humanity, the stench of human sweat and animal manure, and it was not pleasant. At his side walked the samurai swordsman Yagyu Muneyoshi, apparently unperturbed by his surroundings, but then he never was perturbed by anything. He held a torch high, weaving through the crowd, on certain occasions shoving through, and ignoring the glares he was shot.
"I am taking you to meet the Shogun. You would do well not to anger him. Simply answer his questions and you and your friend will come to no harm." The samurai stated simply.
"Well, it depends. If he turns out to be an asshole I would give him a taste of his own medicine. What so important about this 'Shogun' anyway?" The blond said in his characteristic loud voice, drawing looks from the passers-by.
"Boy, the Shogun is the rightful leader of Japan, and he is a great man. You would do well to remember that; one wrong move and you could be executed... I'll do it myself if I have to!" The samurai seethed at Naruto's ignorance. Huffing, Naruto simply continued walking.
As they neared the Fortress gates, Hinata began to stir. She had spent the past twenty-four hours passed out and slung over Naruto's back, and her wounds, though numerous, were already healing due to the herbs the samurai gathered in the forest.
"It looks like she's waking up. We'll rest by the side for a few minutes and allow her to gain her bearings." The samurai said, motioning to the side of the road. It was much brighter here, courtesy of the multitude of torches and lanterns hanging from the gates to the Fortress.
Worried that she might be uncomfortable, Naruto set Hinata down upon a soft patch of grass. As his eyes roamed over her face, criss-crossed with cuts, his heart ached; She was a cute little girl, and would no doubt blossom into a beauty. It was just her luck that she had to face that thing, that demon - who knows what might have happened if he had arrived just a little later? Raising his hand to her face, he brushed away a few stray hairs, caressing her face.
"Oooooh... W-where a-am I?" The indigo-haired girl mumbled, slowly opening her eyes and taking in her surroundings. As her eyes caught the blue orbs of the boy she so admired, she promptly let out a, "Eep!" and blushed furiously.
"Hey Hinata! Remember me? You said you were watching me train! Anyway, there were these three guys who kidnapped you and then I tried to save you and found one of them, who is actually a demon, tortur-" The blond boy rambled, oblivious to Hinata's discomfort. Memories of how the man, Kali, had tortured her were still fresh in her mind.
"Quiet boy! Now is not the time. Take the girl and come; time is of the essence." The Samurai commanded, leading the way forward.
Noticing Hinata's sudden sadness, Naruto slipped his arms under her and pushed himself to his feet, carrying her bridal-style. "I'm sorry Hinata-chan... I didn't mean to upset you. My friend here said he'd get you medical attention, so just concentrate on resting." He said, subdued.
"I-it's okay N-Naruto-kun!" Hinata squeaked, blushing nonetheless at the sudden contact with Naruto. She was practically floating in his scent, and even her shirt smelled of him. Her shirt... she was wearing Naruto's orange jumpsuit! She finally noticed Naruto only had an undershirt and a pair of muddy shorts on at the moment; then that meant he had seen her naked! This was too much for poor Hinata, who promptly passed out, much to Naruto's confusion.
"Wha-! Hinata-chan! Help, I've killed her!"
"For God's sake boy! Do you never shut up!"
-Back In Konoha-
The village was in a state of turmoil. Clan Head Fugaku Uchiha had already begun his battle for control of Konoha, and the Hokage was in a dire position. Of late, he had commanded every ninja specialising in stealth from the ANBU and Ninja Corps alike to keep up with the comings and goings of the Uchiha Elders. Now, one of the ANBU had come seeking audience with the Third Hokage, obviously bearing news of import. "Hokage-sama, the Uchiha have taken hostages from among the Nara and Aburame clans. They most likely will collaborate with them, as long as excessive blood is not shed."
Damn it. The Hokage was, once again, at an impasse. He could not expose the Uchiha now, as Fugaku's political manoeuvring had cemented his position in the Council. He had forged powerful alliances with almost all the prestigious clans of Konoha, some through mutual agreement, some through employing underhanded tactics. His promises of power had even succeeded in bribing the old war-hawk Danzo to his side. Truly, exposing the lies of the Uchiha clan would spell certain suicide for himself, Hokage he may be, and his allies.
"We have waited long enough. Get me Tsume Inuzuka and Inoichi Yamanaka. We have to come up with a plan. A drastic one if need be." The Hokage ordered. He would need tools with which to work with, tools which would get rid of the Uchiha and strengthen his position. As the cat-masked ANBU flashed through some seals, the Hokage raised his arm, stopping the ANBU mid-way. "One more thing, get me Itachi Uchiha."
Nodding, the ANBU left in a swirl of leaves.
Itachi has always put the Village before anything. His loyalty is all but unquestionable; it's time to test that.
-The Shogun's Fortress-
Rows of torches hung on the walls, running down the length of the rectangular hall; the ceiling was criss-crossed with wooden beams and supports. At the sides of the hall sat all the ministers of Japan, from the Land of Fire to the Land of Snow, heads bowed in subservience to the greatest samurai - the leader of Japan, who sat prostrated at the end of room.
The Shogun himself sat on the throne - it was a throne made of pure gold. Intricate carvings of mythical beasts snaked around the throne, complementing the breathtaking mosaics inked onto the stone walls. Mirrors were set into the ceiling, reflecting the light of the torches tenfold and illuminating the Throne Room with a vibrant light.
It was here at the top of the Fortress, just below the raging bonfire that burnt at the top of the Fortress, that Muneyoshi led Naruto to. The grandeur of the room did little to distract the blond, however, and he was wondering not for the first time why the samurai had so insisted on bringing him here. At the sight of the Shogun, clad fully in battle armor, face hidden by a metal mask, he tensed. His regality was only outmatched by the authority he exuded, and Naruto knew he would not live crossing such a man. Nevertheless, he stilled retained his aura of defiance.
As the duo approached the Throne, the Shogun boomed, his voice a deep baritone, "You have returned, my loyal samurai. What valuable information have you gathered in your month-long absence from the Fortress? Quickly now, the government council is in session, and we hope you bring new insight to resolve the matter at hand."
"My Shogun, I present to you Uzumaki Naruto of Konohagakure. He will be key to the success of our endeavor. " the samurai answered, motioning for the blond to kneel before the Shogun.
Naruto was never one to show respect to someone who did not earn it from him personally. "So this geezer is your leader huh? Well, what do you want with me?"
At this, every single person in the room tensed up, even Muneyoshi, who from Naruto's experience rarely showed his discomfort. As the seconds passed, the atmosphere got noticeably colder, and it seemed that the blond boy had sealed his doom.
"Uzumaki Naruto... You hail from Konohagakure do you not?" The Shogun addressed the boy, heedless of his disrespect. Despite this, Muneyoshi narrowed his eyes dangerously at Naruto.
"Yes. Now what do you want from me?" The boy said, loud and defiant as ever.
"I am interested in your village. Tell me about Konoha and I will guarantee your safety."
"You will 'guarantee my safety'... I can't tell you how many times your samurai has told me that. Exactly how are you going to 'guarantee my safety'?" Naruto said, raising his voice, daring the Shogun, challenging him and testing him all at once.
The man did not rise to the bait. He addressed Naruto with just as measured and calm a demeanour as before, black pupils betraying not a hint of emotion. "I am aware that your female companion is in the process of receiving medical treatment. Know that the onus is not on us to care for her; we can just as readily tie both of you to a log and leave you to the wolves. I believe I am undeserving of the disrespect you have shown me, and I truly am interested in what you know about Konoha, so as payment for our hospitality I would have you sate our hunger for the information we so crave. Still, you have been on the road for a long time, and it must have taken a toll on you. You are dismissed, should you wish to visit you female friend, just ask a servant to lead you there; tomorrow, you will come before this council once again, when you are fully rested, and you will tell us what you know."
The authority behind his words was unmistakable, and Naruto had no choice but to leave the room. Flashing through hand seals, he left in a swirl of leaves.
After his departure, Muneyoshi immediately begged his Shogun for forgiveness, "I apologise, I did not think he would disrespect you in such a way. Do not hold it agai-"
Waving his hand, the Shogun dismissed the samurai's apologies. "Typical of a child, and from a ninja village no less. Now, Muneyoshi, tell me what you know..." The Shogun said, directing his attention at his loyal subordinate.
'hehehe those fools don't really know how a ninja thinks' Naruto chuckled conspiratorially. He had in fact used the shunshin to travel right above the Shogun's Throne, to a conveniently placed wooden beam. This way, he would be able to hear just what the samurai were up to.
From his spot, he was able to clearly pick out certain words. "Shogun-sama... it seems the Kitsune are getting restless... some have come out of hiding... preying openly..."
Naruto had heard about the Kitsune. The villagers of Konoha held a strong dislike - hatred - of the fox demons, and would hunt or even kill any foxes, demon or not, they came across. Strangely enough, their hatred of foxes extended to Naruto, although he was quite sure he was human. Often enough, he would hear the villagers calling him a 'fox demon' as they hurt him, though he had never quite understood why; he simply took the insults in his stride, never deigning to reward their comments with his attention.
He could hear the Shogun shifting in his throne, as though uncomfortable, "Preying openly?... Unheard of... We must request assistance from... exorcists..."
"What about... the boy... we need to... destroy the Leaf Village..."
Recognising the voice of the samurai, Naruto gasped; he now knew why they wanted to know about his village. They wanted it's destruction.
With a quick shunshin, the boy vanished.
"Shogun-sama, the Kitsune have become increasingly restless. There have even been rumours of cults murdering innocents as sacrifices to the fox demons! During my journey with the boy, we even came across one of them who revealed it's true form, and a high ranking one no less! It is clear that some of them have come out of hiding, preying openly..." The samurai said.
"The Kitsune have long been known for their deceit. Preying openly? That they reveal their true form outside of their home is unheard of! But I take your word for it; it seems we would require assistance from the exorcists of Mt. Myoboku"
"What about the two children from the Leaf Village? It is clear from Kumo's kidnap attempt that they have already begun to garner bartering chips. Konohagakure is currently the strongest of the Hidden Villages, but it seems even the famed Leaf Village must fall to the many enemies arrayed against it! It is unlikely that Kumogakure would act alone; Its allies will surely help in its endeavour to destroy the Leaf Village..." Muneyoshi trailed off.
A muffled gasp rang out, so soft only the sharpest of ears could detect it. The Shogun gave no indication that he heard it, although Muneyoshi was well aware of Naruto's presence due to his chakra sensing capabilities. However, the blond's sudden disappearance worried the samurai; there were too many ways to misunderstand their words. 'I can deal with that later.'Muneyoshi thought.
"Konoha is an ally to the samurai, and we have forged alliances both military and economic. Still, it is a village of ninja, so we can never trust them. If they request for reinforcements, then we have no choice but to honour our agreement. Still, they are a traditional lot, and so are unlikely to break their rule: never reveal the location of your village. Unscrupulous though they may be, they do hold loyalty in high regard. Our military alliance only states that we are to help them should they request it. If they do not, then it would be time to switch sides and get support from the next strongest village - Kumogakure. To that effect, we have to find the village's location from the boy, by force if necessary, and if possible infiltrate it and use the information gathered to garner Kumo's support."
Hearing this, Muneyoshi shifted uncomfortably. Betrayal did not sit well with him. "Shogun-sama, that would be dishonourable of us, to leave our allies to die..."
The Shogun narrowed his eyes, voice rising, "Do not think to lecture me, samurai. There is nothing dishonourable in surviving. If we do not entrench our position, then the other Hidden Villages would band together and destroy us. By becoming an ally of Kumo, there automatically opens up a schism between the so-called 'strongest Hidden Village' and the other ninja villages, and their attention would be focussed on defeating Kumo rather than us samurai. By playing the ninja against each other, they would slowly weaken themselves, until finally we can step in and eradicate them from Japan. We might be allies with Konoha now, but always remember the ninja are our sworn enemies."
Frowning imperceptibly, the samurai bowed his head in deference to the older man, requesting to be dismissed.
"You are dismissed. Do not forget who owns your life."
After asking for directions from a passing servant, Naruto ran as fast as he could to the medical wing. The hospital was a small wooden structure, tucked away at an obscure corner in the fortress. Rushing inside, Naruto ran as fast as he could to Hinata's room, halting as he reached her bedside.
They hate me... why should I help them? The villagers, they beat me, they hurt me... But my goal is to become Hokage, to lead Konoha and usher in a new age of peace! If they destroy the village, I'll never achieve my goal!
Standing by Hinata's side, Naruto noticed how fragile she was. He knew Hinata had family in Konoha, and this all but strengthened his conviction to protect the village. Yes, I may not ever be seen as a human by those that hate me, but the will of fire must live on. Konoha must survive, because it is what I want. It is my home, not a perfect one, but it is my home.
As if noticing his presence, Hinata opened her eyes slowly. She seemed much healthier now that colour had returned to her face. Nevertheless, she blushed at the sight of him hunched over and staring at her intently.
"Hinata, I'll protect you."
"You saved me. I know you will protect me." Hinata returned, her voice measured, devoid of her usual stutter.
"I like you better without the stutter, Hinata-chan"
"W-what? O-oh s-sorry!" Hinata squeaked, embarassed.
"There you go again." Naruto whispered, smiling. Sighing, he raised a hand, cupping her face, "Listen, I think these samurai want to destroy Konoha. They are going to make me tell them tomorrow. Before then, we are going to escape."
"N-Naruto-kun... I'm scared. W-why do they want to destroy our home?"
Looking down, Naruto looked straight her lavender orbs, "I don't know, but I won't let them get your precious people."
They stayed like that for a few moments, when a familiar voice addressed Naruto, "Do not escape. It will make things harder."
Whirling around on his feet, Naruto tensed, arms raised, ready to obliterate the eavesdropper with a single technique.
"Do that and you're more likely to hurt Hinata than myself." The samurai said. As always, he was dressed in a white hakama, his face devoid of emotion. "Don't you understand? Even if your home is destroyed, I'll make sure you two are not hurt. Please... don't make me do something I might regret."
"I admit... life has been hard for me. The loneliness, the hatred, it's more than a person can take. But Konoha is my home, and it is home to the only people I hold precious to myself. I'll never betray my home, I promise. And I'll never go back on my word." Naruto stood, resolute.
"It seems I have no choice. In the short time I have known you, I have experienced your honour, your selflessness and your will never to give up, despite the obstacles in your path." The samurai said, stepping away from the doorway. "In respect to our short friendship, I allow you to go. But my duty is to my Shogun, my master; so I will not kill you, not now, but I will have no choice to, when my master sets me upon you."
Wordlessly, Naruto nodded, helping Hinata from her bed and making for the exit.
The samurai stared at Naruto, jaw clenched. "Naruto... never let hatred take hold of you. You have great promise, yet also great potential to be corrupted. Hatred is like an itch hidden deep under your skin. No matter how hard you scratch, no matter how much you try to cut it away, piece by bloody piece, it will be there, like maggots writhing under your skin."
You give in, and you will be damned for all eternity.
AN: please review. Next chapter, the action starts up, and there will be more timeskips coming up. Please Read and Review!
The events from the previous few chapters show interconnecting plans and webs of lies. Expect a cataclysmic battle in the future!