Gogeta: Alright everyone, sorry this has taken so long. Again, Army life is busy and I'm nearing the end of my classes so things are starting to get hectic.
Lee: Keep working hard, Gogeta-san! I know that you can do it.
Gogeta: Thanks Lee. Well time to get this chapter started.
Naruto: What the rest of us don't get to talk?
Gogeta: Did you hear something Lee? Sounded kinda like a little kid whining for attention?
Inchiki sat in his control room watching the chaos unfurl. The girl had destroyed one of his genjutsu chambers, but it was a small price to pay for what he was to receive. On the screen he saw the two Konoha ninja retreat from the girl and the smile on his face widened. Not only was his treasure close at hand, but now the girl was keeping the ninja from advancing into his lair. As he watched, the girl fired a black ball at one of the ninja. It was shooting straight for his heart; she was going to kill them. Then the ninja began to spin and a protective dome ricocheted the ball away, leaving them unscathed. They retreated again to the elevator shaft with the girl close behind them, but she reappeared in a cloud of smoke.
"Smoke bomb, eh?" Inchiki muttered to himself. "Very resourceful."
The girl began to stalk the halls as if she were searching for something. Inchiki began to wonder how he could deal with her. He certainly didn't have the power to take her on in that state and none of his clones were near maturity.
"It doesn't matter what she does anyway," Inchiki decided, "I'll soon have my treasure and then I will have no need for this place."
At that moment, a chime sounded on his console and a yellow button flashed. Inchiki pressed the button and a new window appeared on his screen. On it he saw the boy running through the endless halls of his genjutsu, screaming his name. Inchiki scowled, but replaced it with a warm smile and pushed another button.
"Ready for connection." An electronic female voice said.
Inchiki formed a seal and closed his eyes. He felt the familiar sensation of being sucked through a garden hose and when he opened his eyes, he was in the genjutsu. He heard Hizashi's fast approach and stepped around the corner to face him.
"What is it dear boy?" Inchiki said feigning a yawn. "It must be important to make such a ruckus at this hour."
"I have…I have…"
"Rest and catch your breath my lad."
Hizashi shook his head and instead held out his kunai. The blade was still shiny with wet blood and it was slowly dribbling down to drip on Hizashi's hand, "I have the blood." He finally managed to say.
"That is your cousin's blood?" Inchiki asked. "What did you do to get so much?"
"We fought." Hizashi said simply.
"Ah there it is again…the unspoken word."
"There is no-"
"Don't lie to me." Inchiki said firmly. "There is always an unspoken word."
"I…I cut her face…" Inchiki said quietly.
"Oh, you did more than that." Inchiki said. "You butchered your cousin; tore out her eye and left her to die."
"Her Ka-san was there; she knows about medicine."
"Not enough I'm afraid." Inchiki said sadly.
"What?"
"I was watching your match and stayed after you had left. Her Ka-san and I tried everything we could but she passed on, leaving her body in her Ka-san's arms."
"I-I didn't want…I didn't mean to." Hizashi stammered, the strength leaving his legs.
"Maybe, maybe not. It does not change the outcome."
"Ka-san and To-san…"
"Have been escorted out." Inchiki said, "They sought to kill you and I told them I would protect you."
"They…they want to kill me?" Hizashi said in disbelief.
"Seemed the only fair thing to do. You killed their daughter so they will kill you."
"Where can I go?" Hizashi said, panic filling his chest. "What can I do?"
"You may stay here with me and I wil show you how to earn forgiveness in your family's eyes."
"You'd take me in?"
"I'm a magician." Inchiki said with a flourish, "It is what I do."
"Now what are you not saying?" Hizashi asked, suddenly suspicious.
"Well like before there is a catch. You have just slaughtered one of your own kin, you must understand this makes it difficult to trust you."
"What do you need me to do?"
"For now I need you to follow me." Inchiki said and turned on his heel before walking down the hall. Hizashi took one look over his shoulder and thought of Ki'iro, but then he forced the thought out of his head and followed Inchiki. They walked down several long corridors until Inchiki came to a door that was exactly like the others they'd passed.
"Why did we stop?" Hizashi asked.
"I need you to be patient for a while and wait in this room." Inchiki said, opening the door.
Hizashi peered through the door and recognized the dungeon he'd woken up in, "In there?"
"In here or out there." Inchiki said, "I promise I'll be back soon. I just need to analyze the blood on that knife of yours."
Hizashi looked uncertain but then handed over the kunai and entered the dungeon. Inchiki eased the door closed and locked it. His calm face suddenly broke into a wicked grin and he stared hungrily at the kunai. He formed another seal and closed his eyes, feeling the same familiar compression. He opened his eyes and he found himself in his control room again.
"What a genius I am." Inchiki said to himself, "Giving that boy tools…I only thought I'd have specs of blood, but this is dripping with it." As he said this, a small drop fell from the point of the kunai and Inchiki caught it, bringing his hand up to his face, "At last. My treasure can be created."
Naruto and Hinata sat under a tree still in each other's arms. They seemed completely oblivious to the world around them, but Naruto had entered Sage Mode and Hinata's Byakugan was activated. With every small movement of the forest, both would tense up; expecting either an attack or for Tsunade to appear, but it was usually a small animal or just the wind. Finally Naruto sensed a large mass of chakra moving towards them at a high speed and he smiled.
"She's here." Naruto announced.
"And she's not alone." Hinata agreed.
Iwa landed in the clearing first and held his arms in a 'V', "I told you I'd be first."
Shizune and Tsunade landed behind him, breathing heavily, "I almost couldn't keep up with him."
"We're definitely…getting…too old for this." Shizune said between breaths.
"Ba-chan!" Naruto yelled, "Why did you bring these kids along?"
"Oh, sorry. Were we interrupting alone time?" Tsunade said with a sly smile on her face.
"We wanted to come! So Ba-chan brought us along." Iwa said matter of factly.
Hinata untangled herself from Naruto and approached Tsunade, "Please look at him."
"Straight to business, huh?" Tsunade sighed, "You're no fun."
"Also we must apologize." Shizune said, "We were followed."
"By who?" Shikage asked.
"So you noticed me." A voice said, "I wouldn't expect any less from one of the Sannin or her helper."
"Who's there?" Kurotsubaki demanded.
The owner of the voice alighted softly and brushed her hair out of her face, "The new Head of the Hyuuga Clan, Hyuuga Hanabi."
"Nee-chan…Or should I say Nee-sama." Hinata said, a touch of ice in her voice, "What are you doing here?"
"As Head of our house, I know when our messenger birds are used." She said curtly. "Besides, I want to help save my nephew and niece."
The two sisters shared a look and while there was appreciation in Hinata's expression, it was still dominated by a look of dislike. "Isn't she technically not your niece since you disowned me?"
"I'm here for her, too." Hanabi said, returning the look, "Hizashi is my first priority though."
"At least the ties between Main and Branch families are stronger." Hinata said with a scowl.
"I am Head of the Hyuuga Clan." Hanabi said, "and with the power of that title, I have dispelled the idea of Main and Branch families. Hizashi is now considered as much a Hyuuga as you or I."
"Then what about Ki'iro?" Hinata demanded, "Her position is no different than Hizashi's. I don't care if I'm no longer part of the clan; that was my decision, but don't punish her for my choices."
All eyes were on Hanabi as she approached Hinata and raised a hand to her. Hinata flinched, but then Hanabi rested her hand on Hinata's shoulder and bowed her head, "The way you talk…it's like you think it was my decision." Hanabi raised her head and Hinata was surprised to see tears in her sister's eyes. "I tried to convince To-san to change his mind, but he was absolute. Then when you left, you didn't even say good-bye…not to To-san…Ka-san…or me."
"Hanabi-sama…"
"Do you know what that's like?" Hanabi demanded. "You were still alive, but I felt like my sister had died and left me behind. Then the attack happened and I felt certain that you would finally come back home so we could all protect the children, but you never showed. That's when I knew I had to assume the title as Head of the Clan and change our ways so that our doors could be opened to you again."
"Hanabi-sama…are you saying that…" Hinata said softly.
"Yes…as Head of the Clan, I have removed To-san's order from our records. You are no longer our exile and hope you can forgive us and rejoin your family." Hanabi removed her hand and bowed before Hinata who looked stunned.
Hinata took her sister by the shoulders and pulled her into a hug, tears in both their eyes, "I never knew I'd hurt you so badly." Hinata said, "You've waited so long for me Nee-sama. Thank you."
"Nee-chan is fine for now." Hanabi smiled, hugging her sister back.
Only then did Naruto appear next to them and embrace them as well, "I'm glad this finally happened. All my years as Hokage and I could never convince the Hyuuga to do away with the Main and Branch families, but you did it in a matter of days."
"It helps being the girl in charge." Hanabi said.
"You're already healed?" Hinata asked, "That was fast."
"Of course," Tsunade said, folding her arms, "I'm me after all.
"So what's the plan now?" Shizune asked.
"We go find Neji and Tenten, then proceed from there." Naruto said.
"I'll bet they've already sorted everything out." Hinata said.
"Knowing Neji he would hog all the fun for himself." Hanabi agreed.
"Sounds like a plan." Tsunade said, sitting next to a tree, "We're going to sit this one out though."
"Ba-chan!" Iwa whined.
"We came all this way, ba-chan, why can't we go help fight?" Shikage asked.
"Now, now kids, we only came here to heal Naruto-kun. Now our job is to pass on information to any other ninja who come this way."
"But we wanted to help save Hizashi and Ki'iro." Shikage said.
"We'll help by sending help their way and waiting for them to come. I'll have lots of pictures to show them when I see them." Kurostubaki said.
Shikage and Iwa looked pleadingly at Naruto, but he just smiled back at them, "I'm sure they'll be tired when we rescue them. Hizashi and Ki'iro will be happy to have such good friends to lean on when we get back."
They looked thunderstruck that Naruto didn't need their help, but they reluctantly agreed to stay put.
"We should be back soon." Hinata said and the three leapt into the trees.
Hizashi sat huddled in the dark. In his mind he replayed the fight with Ki'iro and each time, her scream pierced his mind and he began to hate himself.
It was for my Byakugan, he thought
But was it worth it? A tiny voice in his head asked.
Of course! Now I can make To-san proud.
But he wants to kill you.
I'll make him proud of me…Inchiki said he'd show me how.
Hizashi continued to battle with his own emotions in the dark until his head began to ache. He clutched his hears but he could not block out the small voice of his conscience. He fell to his side and curled into the fetal position, his eyes stinging with tears.
"Shut up!" he yelled, "Just shut up and leave me alone!"
His voice echoed in the chamber for a few seconds and then faded into the darkness. Hizashi lay in complete silence pleading for Inchiki to return. Fear and doubt began to creep into his mind as what felt like hours passed. He began to wonder if Inchiki were coming back at all or if he were actrually in jail. He finally decided to check the door when he heard a loud bang. Hizashi froze and heard voices on the other side of the door.
"He's in here!" a voice said, followed by another loud bang.
"I'll kill him to avenge the death of my daughter." Another said.
Hizashi felt his heart freeze. His parents had found him somehow. His hands fell on his scrolls, but he already knew it would be pointless to fight. He backed into a corner and tried to make himself as small as possible. He just about gave into a panic when a voice suddenly spoke next to him.
"Hizashi."
"Inchiki!" Hizashi exclaimed, "They've found me."
"Itseems I finished this just in time then." Inchiki said.
Hizashi was confused, but then he felt a syringe pierce his arm and a sharp pain began to spread through his body, "What was that?"
"Ki'iro's active Byakugan DNA."
"Does that mean-"
"Yes, you now have your Byakugan. Use it and you will triumph over the adults." Inchiki said and faded into the darkness.
"Wait! How do I-" Hizashi began, but at that moment the door burst open and Naruto entered the room. Light flooded the room and seemed to give Naruto a golden aura, but then he stepped forward and Hizashi saw that he had the Golden Cloak on. Naruto's eyes locked onto Hizashi and he scowled as he formed a Rasengan. Hizashi was terrified, but he formed a seal he'd seen Neji make countless times and his byakugan activated. Through it, the world seemed to slow down to Hizashi. He saw Naruto slowly advance with the Rasengan and easily dodged the attack. The wall behind where Hizashi had been crumbled and despite the dust, Hizashi could clearly see Naruto. Hizashi's hand fell to his scroll again and almost subconsciously summoned a kunai. He glanced at it and saw that it was the same one that he'd stabbed Ki'iro with. At that moment, Neji's words echoed through Hizashi's head, Maybe he can even the score. Hizashi felt an odd calm come over him. This is what Neji wanted and this was the path Inchiki had said he'd reveal. Hizashi stabbed with the kunai, confident that it would make Neji proud. The kunai sliced into Naruto's back and he fell to his knees, screaming in pain. Hizashi drew the kuani out and slashed at Naruto again, leaving a deep gash across the back of his neck. He fell forward and lay quietly still. Hizashi heard a scream behind him and he saw Hinata rush him. He didn't even have to turn to see her and he threw the kunai over his shoulder. He saw her catch the kunai and continue to rush him but he turned on the spot, opening both scrolls. He summoned several tools and unleashed a wild flurry of kunai and shuriken. Hinata protected herself with her 64 Palm Protective Barrier. She blocked the tools, but when she stopped to continue her attack, Hizashi was already inside her guard. His kunai plunged into Hinata's gut and he yanked his kunai out of her hand. He drew out the kunai and when she fell to her knees, Hizashi slashed at her neck with both kunai.
"I did it To-sama!" Hizashi said, triumphantly holding up his kunai, "I have evened the score and even put you in the lead."
"Don't call me that." Neji said, appearing in the door way. "You're not my son."
"But…but I did what you wanted." Hizashi said quietly.
"You think I wanted this?" Neji demanded, "The blood of half your family is on that kunai and you think that makes me proud?"
"I…I thought…"
"I tried to raise you right since that is a father's duty; obviously I failed." Neji said, "But now, as your father, it is my duty to stop you and I won't fail you this time."
Neji lunged forward and jabbed at Hizashi who was too stunned to react. He struck both of Hizashi's shoulders, numbing his arms and moved behind him, holding his hands behind his back.
"To-san…"
"Now, Tenten!" Neji yelled.
"Why…To-san?"
Through his Byakugan Hizashi saw Tenten unroll her scroll and watched as a plethora of ninja tools sailed towards him. He stared at the tools, oddly unafraid and then felt Neji's head on his back.
"I'm sorry, Hizashi…but it's time for you to go." Neji mumbled.
Reality suddenly dawned on Hizashi; he was going to die and his parents were his murderers. Rage boiled inside of him and he roared with anger as Tenten's tools pierced his body.
Hizashi went limp in Neji's arms and he genly laid the body to the ground, tears streaming down his face. Tenten entered the room and knelt beside her son, beyond the point of weeping. They shared a look and then together closed his eyes. They got up to make their way out when suddenly Hizashi's eyes flew open. He sat up and several of the tools fell from his body; the wounds healing instantly. Neji and Tenten stared in awe as Hizashi got to his feet and glared at them with scarlet eyes. He seemed confused at first, but his eyes locked onto Neji and his face contorted with rage. He clenched his fists; steam pouring from every pore of his body and shifting crimson to form the Fox's Cloak. Hizashi gave a low growl and lunged at Neji. He protected himself with a Kaiten but Hizashi's punch broke through the protective dome and found its mark. The attack passed through Neji and Hizashi's fist smashed the ground.
"Tenten…run." Neji croaked and fell to the ground, dead.
Tenten wanted to scream, but her voice was caught in her throat. She tore her eyes away from the corpse and looked at Hizashi. His eyes were no locked onto her and fear froze her legs. He lunged once and the last thing she saw was her husband's body rushing up to meet her as she fell forward into death's embrace.
Hizashi stood over the bodies of his parents and was now unsure of what to do. His anger began to boil again, but then everything suddenly went dark. He stood in the pitch darkness for a moment and then he saw a sliver of light that slowly expanded to become a doorway. He curiously exited and he sensed something familiar. He moved down the long, stone corridor following the scent and picking his way through large amounts of rubble. Soon he came to turn and he knew his prey was just around the corner. He readied himself and pounced, coming face to face with Ki'iro. Hizashi froze mid-attack and the two stared at each other for a long time.
"H-Hizashi?" Ki'iro growled.
"Ki'iro?" he growled back.
For a moment they were still, but then Ki'iro moved and her fist smashed into Hizashi's face. He flew across the hall and slammed into the wall. He instantly recovered and answered with a flurry of his own blows. The two fought furiously; evenly matched for the first time in their lives. For every attack one had, the other had a counter and with every blow, they became more ferocious. Their fight raged up and down the hall destroying everything until the floor was completely obscured by rubble. Then for a moment, Ki'iro seemed to pull ahead, she got inside Hizashi's guard and swung, clawing with her nails. She tore through his face, leaving deep gashes across his face and he staggered backwards; groping his mangled flesh. Even as his fingers found the wounds; however, they were healing. Sight returned to his left eye and he locked onto Ki'iro.
Hizashi roared as his rage grew deeper. He felt more power flow into his limbs. The Fox's Cloak began to change and took on a more definite fox shape before growing a second and third tail. His teeth extended into fangs and his nails grew to claws before the transformation finally stopped. He crouched on all fours and glared at Ki'iro who returned the glare with equal hate. She opened her mouth wide and the black ball formed at her lips. Hizashi roared and rushed her only to receive the ball to his face. It exploded and stopped him but he recovered and attacked again only to receive a volley of blasts. Ki'iro continued to fire until a blood red arm shot out of the dust and smashed her to the ground. Trapped under the powerful chakra arm, she could only watch as the dust cleared to reveal Hizashi with six tails. The chakra arm clenched around her and drew her in so that she was face to face with Hizashi. She charged another black ball but Hizashi shoved it into her mouth. It exploded and blew the two apart from each other, but they soon recovered and prepared for their next attack when they heard a voice.
"That's quite enough you two." They turned and found Inchiki standing in the hall with them. "You two are no longer enemies nor are you family. You are now tools of my destruction; mere extensions of my will."
Each forgetting about the other, the two attacked Inchiki but he just glared at them. They wanted to attack, to feel this man's flesh rip from his bones, to smell his blood, but they were stopping despite their blood lust. They came to a halt just before him and sat on their haunches.
"Now calm down." Inchiki commanded and slowly the Cloaks dissipated from the children. "Oh, what a shame, you both have lost a Byakugan. No matter, easy fix. For now, we have unfinished business."
"Wha-what happened?" Ki'iro said swaying on her feet.
"Wha-what are you doing alive?" Hizashi mumbled, fighting for consciousness.
"Look into my eyes children and all will be made clear."
They looked up and only now did they realize that Inchiki's eyes now had white irises around red pupils. "Do you like it?" he asked when they looked bewildered, "a mixture of Sharingan and Byakugan, but when I do this-" he formed a seal and his eyes shifted to pure pink, "-they form the most powerful eye ever known! Now listen carefully."
The children nodded and listened to the melodious sound of Inchiki's voice. Soon they had forgotten all their problems; even where they were, what they were doing and who they were. All that mattered was that Inchiki was speaking.
Hanabi, Naruto and Hinata all arrived at the shack just as Tenten and Neji emerged from the elevator shaft. They were greeted with smiles until Neji and Tenten shook their heads.
"What happened?" Naruto demanded.
"Your daughter attacked us." Neji said, "How could you do that to her? After knowing how hard it is yourself?"
"What do you mean?" Hinata asked, completely lost.
"I gave you the seal." Naruto said.
"Her anger burned right through it." Neji yelled.
"How many tails?"
"Tails?" Hinata asked, fear and anger in her voice.
"Just one, but still more than we could handle."
"What do you mean?" Hanabi yelled, "What has become of my niece?"
"She was enveloped in the Kyuubi's Cloak." Tenten said grimly.
Everything went quiet and every eye stared at Naruto. Hinata's eyes grew hard and she slapped Naruto across his face, "How could you do that to her?"
"Hinata, I-" He began rubbing his cheek.
"You know how much of a burden that is and you…and you…" Hinata's voice trailed off, unable to express her anger with words.
"I only gave her a small portion and then sealed it so that she'd only be able to use it if she were in mortal peril." Naruto explained, "Something must have happened to break that seal."
"Where is she?" Hanabi asked of Neji.
As if on cue, the elevator gears began to turn, lifting the car far below. The five ninja shared a look before each finding a hiding spot. A few minutes later, the elevator arrived and Ki'iro and Hizashi stepped out. They held each other's hand and moved in perfect unison.
"Ki'iro!" Hinata screamed.
"Hizashi!" Tenten yelled.
Both mothers leapt from their hiding spots and hugged their children who looked rather confused.
"Ki'iro and Hizashi…who are they, nii-chan?" Ki'iro asked.
"Not sure, nee-chan." Hizashi answered, "Could these be some of the targets that Master told us about?"
"What are you-what happened?" Hinata asked, touching the scars on Ki'iro's face.
"Hizashi! You…" Tenten said, seeing Hizashi's Byakugan and scars across his face as well.
"I don't like how they're looking at us, nii-chan." Ki'iro said.
"Me either. Shall we dispose of them?"
"Yes, let's."
"What are you-"
"Get out of there!" Neji yelled, cutting Tenten off.
Both women looked up at Neji and didn't notice the children attack. Hizashi stabbed with a kunai while Ki'iro jabbed with her Jyuuken, but both attacks missed.
"Where did they go?" Hizashi asked.
"There," Ki'iro said, "He's really fast."
Naruto was half way down the hall with Hinata and Tenten in his arms. He set them down, but neither had any strength in their legs. They simply couldn't believe that their own children had tried to kill them.
"There's one more than Master said." Ki'iro said, her Byakugan active, "Do you think he'd mind if we kill her, too?"
"I don't think he'd care, nee-chan." Hizashi said.
"How about I get the women and you get the men?"
"But that means you get more than me." Hizashi whined.
"You're supposed to be polite to ladies aren't you?"
"Fine."
They released each other's hand and while Ki'iro targeted Hanabi, Hizashi ran after Neji. Ki'iro advanced on Hanabi who emerged from the shadows and activated her own Byakugan. They traded blows and while Ki'iro was merciless, Hanabi held back; not wanting to harm her niece.
"Ki'iro! Stop this!" Hinata begged, finding her voice.
Ki'iro spun in mid-air and attacked Hanabi, driving her back a few feet. She continued her assault and Hanabi defended, too cautious to attack the child. Hinata's hands closed into fists and she rose to her feet. She rushed forward to support her sister, but Ki'iro backed off.
"Two on one? That's not very fair." Ki'iro mumbled.
"Ki'iro, snap out of it! Wake up!" Hinata begged.
"Stop calling me that! It's not my name!"
"Don't you recognize me?"
"I know you're my target and you stand in my Master's way. For that I shall kill you."
Hinata stared hard into her daughter's face, completely speechless, but then her face hardened, "How dare you speak to your Ka-san that way!"
"Ka-san?" Ki'iro said, a curious tone in her voice.
"Yes, your Ka-san." Hinata said sternly.
"Ka-san!" Ki'iro said, running toward Hinata, her arms wide.
Hinata was suspicious for a moment, but then her heart melted at the sight of her smile and Hinata held her arms open as well. She sensed movement and heard the sound of a strike hitting home. It took a moment for Hinata to accept that Ki'iro had attacked again only she had hit Hanabi who had dived to protect her. Ki'iro retreated a few steps and looked at the sisters. Hanabi lay on the ground moaning in pain while Hinata looked thunderstruck.
"Hinata…I'm ok…but you need to stop her." Hanabi said, "She's no longer your daughter."
"You're wrong." Hinata said, her face turning hard, "She's still my daughter and it's my job to love her, but also to punish her when she does wrong."
Hinata advanced on Ki'iro who assumed a defensive stance. Hinata focused her chakra into her hands and they began to glow, the chakra taking shape around them. Hinata lunged forward and even though Ki'iro blocked, the attack broke through her guard and drove her back. Ki'iro glared at Hinata and only then did she see that the chakra around Hinata's hands had taken on the shape of lion's heads. Hinata continued to advance and now Ki'iro had a look of fear on her face. She lashed out again, but this time Ki'iro dodged and kept her distance. Hinata halted her advance and assumed her own stance, staring intently at the child. Ki'iro returned the look with added anger, but then Hinata moved and she was behind Ki'iro. She attacked with both palms and Ki'iro was slammed into the opposite wall.
"Did that wake you up, Ki'iro?" Hinata asked. "You must realize that you can't beat your Ka-san."
"Ka-san?" Ki'iro said, slowly getting back to her feet. Hinata said nothing but watched as Ki'iro rubbed her head. Her eyes filled with tears and Ki'iro ran to Hinata, her arms wide open. Hinata walked to meet the child and caught her when Ki'iro leapt into her arms. Hinata smiled for a moment, but then it was gone. She felt Ki'iro tense up in her arms, preparing an attack, but Hinata shot chakra out of every part of her body and the child went limp in her arms.
"I'm not going to fall for the same trick twice." Hinata said and laid her daughter next to Hanabi who had recovered from her injuries, "Nee-chan, we need to figure out what's controlling her."
Hanabi nodded and they both activated their Byakugan before examining Ki'iro's body.
Neji retreated from Hizashi who had summoned a kunai in each hand. He slashed furiously at Neji who ducked and weaved between the attacks. Neji leapt backwards out of melee range, but Hizashi threw his knives. Neji protected himself with his Rotation and when he slowed, Hizashi got inside his guard. Hizashi stabbed with a new kunai, but another tool struck his and the knife only cut Neji's shirt. Hizashi looked around and found Tenten, her scroll unfurled. Neji retreated to her side and Hizashi lowered his hands to his own scrolls. He pulled both out and completely unfurled them before leaping into the air. He began to spin and the scrolls spiraled around him.
"That's my technique." Tenten said, awe in her voice, "Neji, get ready."
"What do you-" but Neji understood when Tenten summoned a thick chain.
He took the end she threw him and soon Tenten was swinging Neji around her head. He began his Rotation just as Hizashi's tools began to rain down. Tenten took aim and then released the chain, launching Neji at Hizashi. The tools continued to rain down mercilessly, but Neji plowed through them and smashed into Hizashi. Neji halted his Rotation and caught Hizashi before landing lightly next to Hinata and Hanabi.
"Any idea what's wrong with them?" Neji asked, laying Hizashi next to Ki'iro.
"It's a powerful genjutsu…more powerful than anything I've ever seen." Hanabi admitted.
"Any idea on how to break it?" Tenten asked, appearing next to them.
"You can't." a new voice said.
Everyone looked up and saw Inchiki emerge from the elevator. He glared at them with his pink eyes and the children began to stir. "They are under my control."
"Who are you?" Naruto demanded, also appearing next to the group.
"Why don't I let my children explain? Awake!" Inchiki ordered and at the sound of his voice, both children's eyes opened.
"He is our master, he is our father, we live to serve him and we will die for him." They said in unison.
"They aren't yours!" Tenten screamed, "Give me back my son now!"
"But they don't want to go with you." Inchiki said.
"Because they're brainwashed!" Hinata screeched.
"You still haven't told us who you are." Naruto snarled.
"Very well, I am Inchiki the magician, the scientist, the genius and the revolutionist!"
"He's the egomaniac we heard before." Tenten muttered.
"I warned you about that, now face the wrath of my minions."
Inchiki snapped his fingers and the two children began to glow scarlet. The Fox's Cloak blossomed around them and the children got to their feet.
"They…they shouldn't be able to stand." Hanabi stammered, "What's going on?"
"It's Kurama's regenerative ability." Naruto said, "Everyone get out of here, I'll handle this."
"Are you crazy?" Tenten said, "There's three of them."
"Just go!" Naruto said, activating his Golden Cloak.
Tenten looked rebellious, but reluctantly left with the others. The two children lunged forward to block their escape, but Naruto moved between them, caught the children with his chakra arms and threw them at Inchiki. As they ran past him, Naruto gave each shinobi a reassuring look and when they had escaped, he smashed the wall.
"This will be interesting." Inchiki said, standing perfectly still, "A true Jinchuriki versus two of my created ones."
"You're wrong." Naruto said, "It's just me against you."
"I think these two will disagree." Inchiki said and gestured toward Naruto.
Ki'iro and Hizashi attacked Naruto, but he retaliated with two chakra arms and caught them in mid-air. He pulled them in close and looked into their faces. Both had scarlet eyes and pronounced canines, but under the scars and rage, he could still see the children. He closed his eyes and when he opened them, he was standing in Kurama's chamber. On the far side of the chamber were Ki'iro and Hizashi, both obscured by a thick red and purple haze. They were also restrained by large chains and they fought furiously against their bonds.
"What brings you here this time?" Kurama asked, a bored tone in his voice.
"Don't play dumb Kurama, you know what we have to do."
"Well I can help with the red haze, but the purple one is up to you."
"You think we'll come back to you without a fight?" a new voice asked.
"I know I won't." another voice said, "I enjoy this kid far more than you, Naruto."
"Show yourselves!" Naruto demanded.
At these words the two voices laughed in unison and the red haze took on the shape of two foxes who each held a child in one hand. They were each a perfect copy of Kurama only they were smaller and each only had four tails.
"Who are you?"
"Interesting question." A familiar voice said. "I've never named my creations, but I suppose I can make an exception here."
"Inchiki," Naruto snarled, "How are you here?"
"These eyes are far superior to any Sharingan you'll ever encounter." Inchiki explained, "Seeing into your mind is child's play. Now as for your names…why not Yin and Yang?"
"Please, we hate you even more than Naruto."
"Now, Yin," Inchiki said to Ki'iro's fox, "Be a good Kitsune and do as you're told."
The red haze around Ki'iro was overpowered by the purple haze and to Naruto's surprise, Yin actually sat on its haunches and was still. Inchiki turned to Yang and it too became docile. He then turned to Naruto and he could feel Inchiki's will trying to overpower him. Naruto blinked again and was back in Inchiki's hideout, breathing heavily.
"You managed to resist me with your mind wide open like that? I'm impressed." Inchiki said.
"What have you done to them?" Naruto demanded.
"Altered their DNA so that both have Byakugan and a Kitsune. I also merged my own DNA with that of the Sharingan and Byakugan giving me a brand new eye that is far more powerful. Using that eye, I have enslaved these two young ones. They are my tools, my weapons, and my children."
"You bastard."
"Yin, Yang, kindly removed the Rokudaime from my sight."
Both Ki'iro and Hizashi opened their mouths and black orbs formed. They fired and Naruto was forced to release the children to dodge. Ki'iro and Hizashi attacked again with wild punches and it was all Naruto could do to block and dodge. They were pushing him back toward the wall and Naruto knew that if they cornered him, he was done for. He tried to ump and get behind them, but they blocked his path and smacked him to the ground. They fell on him, pinning his arms and legs. They both prepared more black orbs and fired them point blank. The two children were blown off of Naruto but recovered and landed beside Inchiki. The dust cleared and they were amazed to see Naruto getting to his feet.
"Too close." Naruto said, "I barely managed to block those with my Rasengan."
"Impressive." Inchiki muttered, "I rather enjoy this dance, why don't we up the tempo?"
Inchiki snapped and the cloaks around the children brew denser until they were blood red and four tails grew from each child.
"I guess I have no choice but to get serious." Naruto said.
He formed a seal and four clones appeared around him. Each one formed a Rasengan and rushed forward. Ki'rio and Hizashi easily dodged, but they weren't the target. The clones shot forward and attacked Inchiki who dodged. The clones continued their assault and Ki'iro and Hizashi launched their own on the real Naruto. They each fired an orb but he clocked with a Rasengan and attacked with his chakra arms. He struck them each in the gut and slammed them into the ground before pinning them down. In his mind, Naruto saw a vonnection form between the three Kitsune and sense the chakra flowing back into Kurama. Yin and Yang's auras shifted back to red and they began to resist the flow of chakra.
It seems Inchiki needs to focus to keep these two under his control. Keep him distracted a bit longer and I'll drain these two.
"Chain Lightning!" Inchiki roared and thrust his cane at Naruto. Lightning arced from the cane and struck the clones in the chest before shooting straight into Naruto. He was blown back by the blast but recovered and glared at Inchiki. The clones vanished and Inchiki regained control of the children. "I'm sorry, Rokudaime, but I won't allow you to undo everything I have done."
"Raiton, huh?" Naruto said, getting to his feet, "I've beaten many Raiton users. You won't be any different."
"I think it's time we ended this." Inchiki said angrily, "What do you think?"
Ki'iro and Hizashi nodded and to Naruto's amazement, they began to merge. As they merged, the number of tails increased and they began to grow in size. Soon they became too large for the room and their tails began to destroy the walls.
"I'm not sure what will happen if this room breaks." Inchiki said nonchalantly. "Time/Space barriers are so unpredictable. You may want to run."
"No way." Naruto scowled and in his mind, him and Kurama bumped fists.
"Fine then. Prepare yourself for my ultimate creation."
Outside, the three Byakugan users were desperately trying to watch the battle, but their eyes could not penetrate the walls. Tenten was finding it impossible to remain still or clam and with every rumble she felt, she'd ask what was happening.
"I told you we can't see anything!" Hanabi snapped after the fifth time Tenten asked.
"This is going to drive me insane." Tenten moaned.
"We all feel the same way." Neji said, glaring at the wall.
"How are you so calm, Hinata?" Tenten demanded.
"I'm…I'm not…I'm worried to death about Naruto and Ki'iro, but Naruto promised he'd bring the kids back so…so I know he'll save them and come back to me."
"Spoken like a true wife." A voice said behind them.
"Tsunade-sama?" Tenten said, "And kids?"
"Hi Tenten-san!" Iwa said brightly.
"Why did you bring them, Tsunade-sama?" Neji demanded.
"Gogeta went through all the trouble of creating them and he wanted them to get more screen time."
"What?"
"Nevermind, what's going on here?"
"We're not sure but-"
Suddenly the shack was torn apart and in its place were Kurama and the children's Kitsune. Both foxes glared at each other until Kurama lunged forward and attacked. He was no longer holding back and he unleashed a flurry of blows that the other Kitsune simply couldn't keep up with.
"What the hell!" Tsunade yelled.
"Naruto's in that form?" Neji exclaimed, "Then that means the other fox is…"
Kurama delivered a mighty blow and the other fox was driven to the ground. He pounced on it and held it down while his chakra arms snaked toward the head. They probed around the fur on the fox's head and finally found what they were looking for. Lightning erupted from the fox's head and buzzed up the chakra arms. Kurama was forced to release his prey and when more lightning arced across the fox's body, he was forced to retreat.
"What's the matter Rokudaime?" he heard Inchiki yelling, "I thought you could fight Raiton!"
"We have to do something!" Tenten yelled.
"We need to separate Inchiki from the children." Neji said. "Naruto should be able to handle the other fox."
"Just how are we supposed to do that?" Hanabi demanded.
"We should be able to help with that."
Everyone turned to the new comer and their spirits soared.
Kurama dodged left and right, but couldn't get close enough to attack. Naruto wanted to use the Rasenshuriken or Biju Bomb, but he was still too afraid of harming the children. Kurama dodged again, but h could feel his movements slowing down; they couldn't keep this form up much longer. He dodged another bolt of lightning and suddenly the lightning stopped.
"Rokudaime, you are very stubborn." Inchiki said, "Honestly, why don't you just die?"
"How could I give up now?" Naruto yelled back, "This fight is just getting started."
"Don't lie to me. Your chakra is running low. Maybe you should just give up."
"You should give up on me giving up!" Naruto roared.
"You truly annoy me! Now if you'd be so kind, DIE!"
Inchiki raised his cane and the fox began to form a large black scowled, knowing this was the real thing and he prepared his own Biju Bomb. Both took aim and fired simultaneously. The bombs collided and seemed to struggle for a second before shooting skyward and exploding.
"Well…that was rather anti-climactic." Inchiki said calmly. "At least I succeeded in draining the rest of your chakra."
"Time for my final move then." Naruto said.
Inchiki opened his mouth to reply, but before he could speak, Kurama had halved the distance between them. Inchiki quickly jabbed his cane at Naruto but he continued his charge. The lightning crackled over Kurama's body but he pushed through and dug his claws into the other fox. It roared in pain and struggled to free itself, but Kurama held fast.
"Let go!" Inchiki roared, shooting more lightning.
Naruto leapt off of Kurama's head and landed on the other fox. He rushed Inchiki and poured the last of his chakra into a Rasengan. His golden cloak was drawn into it and the Rasengan took on a golden hue. Inchiki's eyes went wide at the sight of it and he twisted the top of his cane. Naruto lunged forwardjust as Inchiki drew his sword and stabbed. The Rasengan found its mark and began to grind into Kinchiki, but it slowed and finally stopped. Naruto stared into Inchiki's face that wore a satisfied smile. He felt a warm wetness spread across his chest and when Naruto looked down, he saw that Inchiki's blade had pierced his chest.
"Too little, too late I'm afraid." Inchiki said, "You were close though; a few more seconds and I might have died."
"Damn you, Naruto." Kurama growled. "If I die because of you, I'll eat you in the Next World."
Inchiki withdrew his blade and as Naruto fell to his knees, Kurama faded and disappeared. Blood began to pool around Naruto and as he fought for consciousness, he saw Inchiki raise his blade again.
"And now Rokudaime…you die."
Naruto watched the blade fly toward him and suddenly everything went black.
Inchiki stood over Naruto's body, his blade an inch from Naruto's face. He struggled to move the blade forward, but his body wouldn't move. He gritted his teeth and pushed with all his might, but his arm would not obey.
"It doesn't matter how much you struggle." A voice said behind him, "You're trapped in our shadows."
"Who are you?"
"No one of consequence." The voice said.
Inchiki felt his body turn around of its own accord and he found Shikamaru and Shikage standing behind him; both of their shadows restraining him.
"Tell me who you are!" Inchiki demanded.
"Sheesh, what a drag." Shikamaru muttered, "Want to shut him up, Shikage-chan?"
Shikage said nothing but released Inchiki from her shadow. She pulled out a scroll and used it to summon her new puppet. Her shadow snaked forward and possessed it, forcing it to copy her every move. She tested each of its four arms and then assumed her fighting stance.
"Thank you for the new puppet, To-san." She muttered.
"You really think I'll give you the chance?" Inchiki roared. He glared at Shikamaru as lighting buzzed across his body and down the shadow.
"Shikage! Now!" Shikamaru cried, reluctantly releasing his jutsu.
Shikage lunged forward with her puppet, but was a second too late. Inchiki dodged at the last second and smacked the puppet aside. Rage filled his face as he stared down at Shikage and he drew his sword again.
"Dynamic Entry!" a voice yelled. Inchiki faltered for a second and then felt a foot collide with his hand, knocking his sword away. "I will not let you harm Shikage-chan."
"Iwa-kun!" Shikage said, truly impressed.
"I'm really starting to loath children." Inchiki said, preparing another Raiton jutsu.
"Don't you dare hurt my son!"
"More!"
"CHANARO!" Sakura screamed as her foot smashed into Inchiki's gut. The kicked launched him into the air, but he covered and began to plummet back toward them. "Take care of him, I'll get Naruto."
"I think they have him." Shikamaru said, pointing skyward.
Sakura followed his finger and saw Sai flying on his ink eagle with Kurotsubaki by his side. They both unrolled scrolls and scribbled furiously. Soon the air was full of inky animals and flowers and Inchiki could barely keep up with them movements. Finally the hail began to thin and for a second, Inchiki thought he'd won, but then Sai and Kurotsubaki leapt off the eagle and it dove to attack him. He struck with more lighting and while the eagle was destroyed, its ink sill hit him and drove him to the ground. A cheer erupted from the surrounding forest and the trees shook as several ninja ran to intercept Inchiki.
"Is there any way I can help?" Shikamaru asked.
"Yes, try to keep the fox from moving." Sakura said, tying her hair in a bun, "it's been calm up until now, but I have a feeling that'll change."
"It..won't move." Naruto mumbled.
"Naruto!" Sakura said, "Don't move…"
"Don't worry about me." Naruto said weakly, "I'm going to save Ki'iro and Hizashi."
"What do you mean?"
"This fox…" he said barely above a whisper.
"I don't get it Naruto, but I have to heal you."
Sakura put her hands over Naruto's wound and flooded the area with her chakra. She focused on the wound and felt an odd tugging sensation on her chakra. Naruto's body seemed to be absorbing her chakra and soon the chakra in her hands was gone. She poured more chakra into her hands and felt it flow into Naruto as well.
"Sakura…stop."
"No, Naruto!" she said through gritted teeth, "I won't let you die."
She forced more chakra into her hands and she felt the tugging sensation spread into her body. She felt her strength beginning to fade and feared she might lose herself when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She looked up to see Hinata and Hanabi standing behind her.
"Keep it up," Hinata said, "We'll guide you."
Sakura didn't know what she meant, but she felt Hinata's chakra flow into her and her strength returned. She focused again and felt the tugging sensation stronger than ever. She resisted, but then she felt Hinata and Hanabi's chakra push her forward and she tumbled forward.
Inchiki slammed into the ground in a puddle of ink, but quickly recovered. He was absolutely livid at this point and his pink eyes glared up at the fox. He began to formulate a strategy for regaining control when suddenly the trees around him filled with ninja. Completely surrounded, Inchiki felt their anger and blood lust and despite his keen eyes, he could find now easy escape.
"Inchiki, as the previous Hokage, I place you under arrest for damages to my village, the theft of our children and the interruption of my beauty sleep. Will you come quietly?" Tsunade demanded.
"Ah, Lady Tsunade," Inchiki said with a deep bow, "the stories of your beauty do not lie."
"Can the flattery you old fart." She snapped.
"You must feel so powerful standing behind all those ninja." He chuckled.
"I don't stand behind them." Tsunade said, "Not anymore. Now I stand with them."
"I hear what you are saying, but I also hear what you are not," Inchiki said with a flourish, "You don't know if you have the strength to fight me anymore."
"Please," Tsunade chuckled, "I'm more than enough to take you, but on top of that, you're surrounded."
"I fear I've been underestimated." Inchiki said with a wide grin.
"Enough of this." Tsunade yelled, "Attack."
Every ninja leapt from the trees and fell toward Inchiki, ready to kill. He calmly watched them come and formed a single hand seal. His eyes changed to become completely black save for a red silted pupil. He formed more seals and then thrust his hand upwards. Red lightning shot out of his hand and arced through the airborne ninja. Many fell to the ground, but more continued their assault. Inchiki smiled and concentrated his chakra into his feet. He leapt and met the ninja in midair, forming more seals. More lighting arced from his body and spread from ninja to ninja. Inchiki cackled madly as even more ninja fell from the sky.
"That's not going to work on us." A voice said behind him.
Inchiki turned and found Kakashi, Temari and Gai continuing their assault. All three fell to the ground, the three Konoha ninja assuming defensive stances.
"I'm curious." Inchiki said darkly, "How did you survive my Scarlet Bolts?" None of them answered so Inchiki shot a bolt at each ninja. Kakashi countered with his Raikiri, Temari with her Wind Scythe and Gai merely ducked. "Interesting. Shall we begin then?"
"It's already over." Kakashi said, revealing his Sharingan. "Your future is death."
"With that eye? You have no chance of winning."
"We won't know until we try." Temari snarled, raising her fan.
"Then by all means, attack."
"I'm not going to hold back." Gai said, pulling out his nunchaku, "Don't blame me if you get hurt." He rushed forward and immediately had to dodge more lightning. He ducked, dodged, flipped and dove around Inchiki, slowly closing the distance between them. He finally got within melee distance and lashed out with his nunchaku, but Inchiki easily blocked.
"I thought you said you were going to hurt me."
"Try this one then!" Kakashi said, rushing forward with two hands full of lightning, "Double Chidori Strike!"
"I grow tired of this." Inchiki said, flooding his own hand with Scarlet Bolts and blocking Kakashi. "If you two aren't going to be serious, then just die."
"I think you're forgetting about somebody." Kakashi said.
Both ninja grabbed the hand that Inchiki had blocked them with and held him in place. Inchiki's eyes went wide as Temari charged forward with her fan completely unfurled. He sent lighting down his arms into the two Jounin, but they held fast.
"Wind Style: Slashing Hurricane Jutsu!" Temari screamed and swung her fan.
A horrible wind filled the clearing and came to form a cone around the three ninja. The ground began to break apart and they were sucked into the tornado with large chunks of earth. Kakashi and Gai released Inchiki and landed on some airborne boulders.
"What do you say Kakashi?" Gai yelled over the wind, "Shall we show him how scary we are when we get serious?"
"Take the lead Gai-kun." Kakashi said, forming seals.
"Yosha." Gai roared, "Explode my youth! Sixth Gate of Joy, Open!"
Gai leapt from rock to rock, attacking Inchiki from all sides. With each attack, Inchiki would try to protect himself with lightning, but Temari's wind would cancel it out and Gair's attack would hit home. The speed of his attacks continued to increase until Gai halted; his face an inch from Inchiki's. He went to move his palm forward but Gai's fist slammed into Inchiki's palm and was followed by an unforgiving rain of blows. Soon his fists had set the surrounding air ablaze and as he hammered away at Inchiki, the air inside the tornado grew hotter. Gai finished with assault with a downward kick and sent Inchiki streaking straight to Kakashi. He formed one last seal and launched a large fireball at Inchiki. The hot wind enhanced the fireball and it blasted Inchiki skyward into one of Kakashi's clones. It formed a final seal and drove Inchiki to the ground with a Water Dragon Jutsu.
He lay in a crater, but Inchiki forced himself to stand but then felt something close around his ankle. He looked down just in time to see Kakashi's hand drag him underground, leaving only his head exposed. The real Kakashi appeared a second later from underground and the fierce winds began to die down.
"Earth Style: Head Hunter Jutsu." Kakashi said, replacing his headband over his eye. "Haven't used that one in a while."
"Well done Kakashi. I'd expect nothing less from my rival." Gai said, landing next to Kakashi.
"You two were amazing!" Temari said, running up to meet them.
"So were you." Kakashi said, "Now what shall we do with this one?"
"I hope you aren't talking about me." Inchiki said.
"As a matter of fact, I am." Kakashi said, "I'd like to take you back to the village to put you on trial, but I have a feeling you won't cooperate."
"Of course not."
"So the only option left is to kill you."
"I may be bruised and battered, but nowhere near defeated." Inchiki chuckled.
"He's planning something!" Gai yelled.
"Look into my eyes." Inchiki said and began to laugh.
Everyone averted their eyes and retreated; making Inchiki laugh harder. He easily extracted himself and stood with his amrs crossed, cackling madly.
"H-how?" Temari stammered.
"You don't think I only gave the children power do you?" Inchiki asked as the Fox's Cloak blossomed around him.
"You too!"
"What can we do Kakashi?" Gai asked.
"I…I guess I'll have to use that jutsu."
"Kakashi, you're not as young as you used to be. Are you sure your body can handle it?"
"Won't know until I try, right?" Kakashi said, forming the seal for his Kamui.
"Well if you're going to put your life on the line, it's only proper I do the same." Gai said, assuming his Eight Gates stance.
They both began to focus their chakra but then the felt a hand on their shoulders. They looked to Temari who was shaking her head and pointing. They followed her finger to find Inchiki with his back to them.
"You three have fought well." Inchiki said over his shoulder, "But I grow weary of this game."
"You think we'll let you escape?" Kakashi snarled.
"You couldn't hope to stop me." Inchiki said, "I'm not giving up on my dreams so easily, son of Sakumo. We'll meet again and I hope you'll be stronger, I promise I'll be." He took a step away from them and suddenly was gone.
"What the hell, you guys!" Sakura yelled, but when she looked around, she found that she was no longer on the fox's head.
Your soul is in Naruto's body. Hinata said in Sakura's mind. Please, help him.
"This must be what Ino's jutsu is like." Sakura muttered, "Where do I go?"
Just go straight. Hinata said, Be as quick as you can, I don't know how long we can keep this up.
Sakura nodded and rushed forward through the halls of Naruto's soul. The further she ran; the more she could feel the chakra of the Kitsune until it became so thick that it began to impede her passage. She continued to push through and soon came to the Kyuubi's chamber. Inside were Naruto, Kurama who looked weak and small and the other fox who was covered in chains. There seemed to be a connection between the two foxes and Kurama seemed to be getting absorbed by the other.
"Naruto!" Sakura yelled and ran to him.
"Sakura-chan?"
"Jeez, seems like anyone can come in here these days." Kurama growled.
"Naruto, what's going on?"
"I told you, I'm saving the kids." Naruto said, pointing to the other fox.
Sakura followed his finger and finally saw the children in the fox's hands. "How can we save them?"
"I need to siphon off their Bijuu chakra, but we're so low on chakra, we can barely resist its influence."
"Well don't worry. Hinata, Hanabi and I are all here. You can use our chakra." Sakura put her hand on Naruto's shoulder and she felt all of their chakra flowing through her and into Naruto.
"That's no fair!" the other fox roared.
"Shut up!" Naruto roared back and tightened the chains about its body.
Sakura, we're at our limit. Hinata said.
"Hang in there, Hinata!" Sakura said, "Naruto needs a bit more."
"I need more than what you three can provide." Naruto said with a sad smile, "I'm going to use the last of my chakra and seal this thing away."
"But that will kill you…"
"Like father like son right?"
"Naruto you can't!" she yelled and tried to grab his shoulder, but her hand just passed through.
"Looks like your time's up." Naruto said.
"Dammit, Naruto! Don't do this!" Sakura cried, her eyes sparkling with tears.
"Tell Hinata I'm sorry." He said and started forming seals.
"Hinata, do something!"
How about I say something?
"Yamato-taicho?"
In the flesh. Yamato said.
Don't forget about the rest of us! Many other voices yelled.
"What's going on out there?" Sakura said.
We're all here to support our village hero. That's all that matters. Now let's take care of this fox.
"You see, Naruto? We're all behind you." Sakura said.
At these words, large pillars of wood sprouted from the ground and wrapped around the other fox, further restraining it. Sakura also felt herself become solid again and an insane amount of chakra began to flow into her body. She put her hand back on Naruto's shoulder and she could feel the strength flowing back into him. He rose to his feet and jabbed a finger at the other fox.
"Yin-Yang or whatever your name is, I'm going to beat you!"
"Think you can beat me?" the other fox growled.
"I know I can," he said, "but that's not what I'm here for."
Naruto activated his Golden Cloak again and sent his chakra arms out to the fox. It fought against its bonds, but they held fast and each hand grabbed one of the fox's ears. Naruto pulled in opposite directions, splitting the fox back into two. They roared in pain and anger, fighting furiously to free themselves. They both glared at Naruto who still had ahold of their ears. He smiled for a moment and then poured more chakra into the arms until they expanded to envelope the two foxes. They bellowed in protest as their chakra began to leave them and flow back to Naruto.
"We refuse!" Yin roared.
"We will not be absorbed." Yang bellowed.
"You don't have a choice in the matter!" Kurama cried back as he swallowed their chakra.
"Everyone!" Naruto called over his shoulder, "I have it from here. Thank you."
"Are you sure?'
"Sakura, you and the others have done more than enough," Naruto said with a smile, "Now leave the rest to me."
She hesitated for a moment, but then lifted her hand and felt a tug as her soul moved back to her body, "I believe in you, Naruto." She faded out of existence and Naruto turned back to the two foxes.
Both seemed to be shrinking slowly while Kurama was steadily returning to normal size. They were both still incredibly strong, but with every drop of chakra they lost, they grew weaker and Kurama grew stronger. Naruto slowly advanced on them and the foxes glared at him with equal hate.
"You know your children will die when we are gone." Yin rumbled.
"Are you willing to sacrifice them just to stop us?" Yang asked.
"Of course not." Naruto said firmly, "you will not be removed but I will siphon your power and seal you away inside the children."
"And you're ok with this?" Yin asked Kurama.
"As these children are Naruto's to protect, you are mine to protect as well and as your parent it is also my duty to discipline you."
"So you would have us become pets?" Yang said, the last word sounding like a swear in his mouth.
"No, not pets." Naruto said, "I hope you and the children can one day be friends."
"Friends?" Yin chuckled, "Not likely."
"We'll see."
Each fox was now smaller than either child and Naruto formed some more seals before laying his hand on the foxes' heads. They bared their fangs as they glared up at Naruto, but neither attacked, knowing they now didn't have the power to hurt him. When he removed his hands, the tetragram seal appeared on their heads. The chains and wood released the two kitsune and in their place were thick collars around their necks. Each collar had four strong cables that originated from each child, connecting their souls.
"We're on leashes!" Yin roared in fury.
"Become friends with the children and maybe one day I'll teach them how to remove the leashes." Naruto said.
"This is beyond humiliating!" Yang moaned, "We are demons! Not children's play things."
"You are neither!" Kurama rumbled, "You are Bijuu and your Jinchuriki may prove to be powerful allies. For now, just get used to them."
Naruto formed more seals and the two kitsune reluctantly allowed themselves to be absorbed by the children. Finally free of all influences, Ki'iro and Hizashi swayed on the spot. They began to fall forward, but Naruto caught them and held them close to him.
"Thank you Kurama," Naruto said softly, "If it wasn't for you-"
"None of this would have happened." Kurama growled, "Don't get the wrong idea brat, I still don't like you very much. I only helped you because it benefited me."
"Same old Kurama."
"If you ever come that close to dying again, I swear-"
"Yeah, yeah." Naruto said, "I'll do my best to stay safe."
With that Naruto closed his eyes and let himself be swallowed by his weariness.
Naruto stirred in his sleep but after thinking about it, decided it not to wake up just yet. He became aware that he was in a bed and a gentle breeze blew through an open window. The slight smell of flowers also enticed him and he opened one eye. A hospital suite swam into focus and next to him was Hinata dozing in a chair. He smiled to himself and took her hand in his, squeezing it softly. She awoke instantly and after staring at him for a moment, flung herself onto Naruto. They held each other tightly, his blonde hair mixing with her black and they shared a kiss.
"Well I see you're feeling better." Sakura said from the door.
"H…How long have you been there?" Hinata asked, blushing madly.
"Long enough." Sakura laughed, "Could you let me have him for a moment?"
"Fine…" Hinata sighed, "but only for a moment."
They all smiled as Sakura checked Naruto's wounds and found that they had all completely healed. She deemed him medically healthy and only required him to stay in the hospital for another day of observation. Hinata resumed her place in Naruto's arms, but the look on his face was anything but relaxed.
"How long have I been out?" he asked.
"Only about a day." Sakura said, "Don't worry so much. We recovered you and the kids, admitted all of you and you're all making excellent recoveries."
"But what happened after I got stabbed?" Naruto asked.
"Well after I left you, I healed you and the Kyuubi we were on shrank until there was nothing left but the kids in your arms."
"What about Inchiki?"
"I think I can explain that." Kakashi said, suddenly appearing in the window. He recapped his battle for Naruto and with each word, his face grew more grim.
"Was anyone sent to track him?"
"Everyone was too injured and is still recovering." Kakashi said, "Thankfully Sakura was able to bring Tsunade-sama around and both of them saved many others."
"So he got away?" Naruto asked.
"Afraid so."
"Hmm, I'll have to keep him in mind from now on."
The room became quiet for a moment, but then Sakura began to tell Naruto of everything that had happened while he was asleep. Iwa had become quite popular with Shikage and Kurotsubaki; both girls were now never more than ten feet from him. Kurenai-sensei had taken it upon herself to find Choji, Shino, and Kiba soul mates as well. She'd already succeeded in setting up Choji and Kiba while Shino still remained difficult.
"So basically spring is in the air." Sakura said with a smile.
"Speaking of spring, what are you doing up and about?"
"This baby is important to me, Naruto," she said putting her hand over her womb, "but so are you. I heard you were in trouble and I couldn't help but come running to your aid."
"Wow, thanks Sakura-chan." Naruto said, a slight blush to his cheeks.
"Umm…Naruto…" Hinata said quietly.
"Hmm?"
"Oh…nevermind." Hinata said, laying her head on Naruto's chest.
Jealous much. Inner Sakura smirked. "Why don't we go down and see the kids?"
Hizashi stirred in his sleep. His dreams were tormented with foggy visions of demons and monsters and he woke with a start, sitting bolt upright. The sheets of the bed he was in were stuck to his skin with sweat and he was ripped with an uncontrollable anxiety. He looked around the unfamiliar room and found another person lying in an identical bed. An odd calm came over him and he activated his Byakugan. He examined the other person and to his disbelief, he recognized Ki'iro. The anxiety began to creep back into his mind, but he approached his cousin's bed and looked at her properly. Her hair was different and her face horribly scarred, but there was no doubt to Hizashi that this was Ki'iro. She was lying so still that Hizashi was certain she was dead and tears formed in his eyes.
"I'm sorry, Ki'iro-chan." He mumbled, touching the scar he'd given her, "I'm sorry…"
He fell to his knees and began to cry while unbeknownst to him, Ki'iro began to stir as well. Her eyes opened and they searched for the source of crying. She sat up and saw Hizashi and a thousand emotions welled up inside her, but then she heard what he was saying between sobs.
"I didn't want…I wasn't thinking…I lost my cousin…"
He cares nothing for you. Inchiki's words rang in Ki'iro's mind but seeing Hizashi now, Ki'rio wasn't sure who to believe. She came to a decision and grabbed a big handful of Hizashi's hair. He yelped in surprise but Ki'iro kept him facing downward.
"Did you mean all that?" she said forcefully.
"K-Ki'iro?" he stammered.
"Answer the question!"
Hizashi was quiet for a moment but fresh tears pooled in his eyes and he said, "Yes."
"Even though you cut my face open to take my blood?" she growled, "You're sorry, that you did it?"
"I am…" Hizashi said miserably, "I hate myself for killing you…you were always there for me…pushing me to be better."
"Killing?" Ki'iro asked, confused.
"If I could go back, I would drive the knife into my own face…"
"Hizashi…I'm not-" Ki'iro began but Hizashi lost himself as he began to sob once more.
She felt pity rise inside her and she lifted his face to look at her but then screamed at the sight of his scars. Hizashi felt her release his hair and he forced his eyes open only to scream as well at the sight of his cousin.
"How are you alive!" he demaded.
"Why would I be dead?" Ki'iro shot back, "And what happened to your face?"
Each child explained what Inchiki had said to them and only then did they realize how they had been lied to from the start. Rage flowed into each of them and they began to curse his name and everything about him. After a while they finally calmed down and only then did Ki'iro notice Hizashi's eye. He told her how Inchiki had at least kept his word about the Byakugan and both felt sorry for the other for only having a single Byakugan. They sat in silence for a long time until the door to their room opened and their parents entered. Both children screamed in despair and while Hizashi was too scared to move, Ki'iro threw herself between her cousin and parents, begging them to forgive Hizashi. This of course only confused the adults.
"Wait…what are we forgiving?" Naruto asked.
"You're fakes that Inchiki created and you want to kill Hizashi!" Ki'iro yelled, but the adults only looked more confused, "Besides, I'm alive so there's no need for revenge."
"Whoa, whoa, slow down, Ki'iro." Neji said, "Why don't you tell us what's going on."
"Ghosts…they're ghosts…" Hizashi whimpered.
"Now I'm really confused." Naruto said, frustration in his voice.
"Calm down, Naruto." Neji said, "Why don't we let the mothers handle this? They're far more patient than we are."
The children didn't move as Hinata and Tenten sat on the bed next to them, but they were obviously terrified. Ki'iro continued to keep herself between the adults and Hizashi, but couldn't deny a feeling of comfort and concern coming from the two kunoichi. Hinata reached forward and gently stroked Ki'iro's hair.
"Now you look just like your Ba-chan."
"HA!" Ki'iro said triumphantly, "Tsunade no ba-chan's hair is blonde! You're a fake."
"No," Hinata said quietly, "You look like To-san's Ka-san."
"I-I do?" Ki'iro asked, taken aback. "I never talked about her around Inchiki…"
Ki'iro was quiet for a long time. She looked at each adult in turn, searching for any sign of disciet, but she could find none.
"Where is he?" she finally asked.
"He's gone." Tenten said, "He did horrible things to you two, but we saved you from him and now you're back in Konoha."
"He…he said you wanted to…to kill me." Hizashi said, barely above a whisper.
"Hizashi, look at me very carefully," Tenten said, "You are my son and no matter what, I would never do that."
Hizashi stared hard at Tenten and when his Byakugan activated, Tenten couldn't completely hide her surprise. She questioned him about it and Hizashi told them about Inchiki giving him the Byakugan to protect himself against the copies that were trying to kill him. The whole time he was talking, Hizashi was examining his mother's face, watching the slight movements of her eyes and twitches in her cheeks.
"So we're not in the genjutsu anymore?" he asked. "We're back in reality?"
"That's what we've been trying to tell you." Neji said softly.
Hizashi was still uncertain, but he came out from behind Ki'iro, a plan brewing in his mind, "Inchiki did teach me something though. He called it the Unspoken Word. I have a question for you and depending on what you say and what you don't say, I'll decide if we're in a genjutsu or not."
The two mothers shared a look and then smiled, "Ask us anything."
"What did Ki'iro and I learn to summon?"
"You summoned?" Naruto blurted out.
That was all the answer the children needed and they jumped into their mothers' arms. All four cried tears of joy and when Naruto and Neji came to join them, the sobs only grew stronger. They finally calmed down after a long while and they heard a knock on the door before Kakashi poked his head in.
"I'm guessing they're alright?" he said.
"They'll be just fine." Naruto called over his shoulder.
"You heard him." Kakashi said and stepped aside as three children raced passed him.
Kurotsubaki, Shikage and Iwa all leapt onto the bed each fighting for the attention of Ki'iro and Hizashi. Iwa began asking Hizashi a lot of questions in rapid sequence while Kurotsubaki and Shikage took turns trying to cheer up Ki'iro with drawings and puppet performances. The cacophony only died down after Sakura came in and ordered that Ki'iro and Hizashi get more rest. All the kids moaned their disapproval but Iwa, Kurostubaki and Shikage reluctantly left.
"They're a regular three ring circus." Sakura laughed.
"It takes a village." Tenten agreed.
"Wait, Haruno-san." Hizashi called.
"Yes, Hizashi-kun?"
"Is…is it possible to trade eyes?"
"Hizashi…" Ki'iro said quietly.
The room was completely silent and all eyes were on Hizashi. "I'm the one who took Ki'iro's Byakugan so I want to give her mine."
"It is possible." Sakura said slowly, "But it's a painful process and it wouldn't be right to do that to someone so young."
"Inchiki said it was just a matter of genes." Hizashi said desperately, feeling an odd churning in his stomach, "How else can I make up for what I did?"
"Hizashi!" Naruto snapped, "Calm down."
Hizashi looked mutinous, but he forced himself to relax and he bowed to Sakura, "Please forgive me."
"I really am sorry, Hizashi-kun." Sakura said and left the room.
She closed the door behind her and Naruto looked at the children with a hard expression, "You felt it just then didn't you? A weird churning in your belly?"
"How did you-"
"It's because you're both Jinchuriki now." Naruto said, "You both now have a little of Kurama inside you."
Naruto explained how he had sealed part of Kurama into Ki'iro when she was born and that Hizashi now had some of the same fox inside of him. At first both children looked scared and a little sick at the thought of being Jinchuriki, but Naruto told them about how the Bijuu were powerful allies. Ki'iro and Hizashi's eyes lit up at the idea of having that much power, but Naruto told them that the kitsune weren't pets or weapons. They were living creatures and demanded respect. He also told them how their seals worked and how it was their job to keep the kitsune in line. The children looked confused so Naruto explained how they thrived on negative emotions and violence.
"So we just need to control our emotions?" Hizashi asked.
"Basic ninja skill right?" Naruto said.
"What are their names?" Ki'iro asked.
"Inchiki named them Yin and Yang, but why don't you give them some better names?" Naruto suggested.
"Izanami and Izanagi." Hizashi said instantly.
"The King and Queen of the gods?" Tenten exclaimed.
"Izanami…I like it." Ki'iro said, feeling a churning in her stomach that wasn't all together unpleasant, "I think Izanami likes it, too."
Gogeta: Sheesh, I'm sorry that took so long guys, but you won't believe everything that's been going on with me. Suffice to say that life is getting pretty crazy so it took a while to finish this story.
Shino: I can't believe you paired up everybody but me…
Gogeta: You're never going to forgive me for this are you?
Shino: ….
Naruto: I can't believe you let the bad guy escape. You usually go for the big, dramatic defeats at the end of a story. Could you possibly be planning a sequel to this story?
Gogeta: I'm not going to deny the possibility.
Sakura: I can't believe you didn't put in any lemon scenes.
Gogeta: I really wish you guys would quit reminding me about that fanfic…I honestly hate it.
Choji: I can't believe it's not butter.
Gogeta: Yeah and with that bad joke I end this story. Thank you to all who have read this far and allow me to feel famous every now and then. It really does help make Army life bearable though, knowing that some people out there enjoy my poor attempts at literature. Alrighty then, until next time, Laters.