If you have not read the changes I made to chapter 4 from the Naruto vs Moryo fight then you should not read this until you have otherwise you are going to be left in the dark on a couple of notes.
BTW I will be making a new story sometime soon, it will be a Naruto x Dishonored story so be on the look out for it.
By the way, I decided to expand on the relationships here a bit so if you can't stand a moderate amount of fluff then I advise you to be prepared. I tried my best to keep Naruto in character, but enough so that even he has some scars that never heal. You've been warned.
Anyway, Let's begin shall we?
Enjoy!
Legend of the Kōjin no Kōtei
Chapter 5: Confrontation and Bonding
Kushina was beginning to worry, and considering all that she and her sensei had been through the day before she thought they deserved some kind of break. However that was not to be as it had been a day since she and Naruto left Oni no Kuni after saying their goodbyes to the Priestess, and the citizens of her village, and both Naruto and herself were heading back to her village. The thought of returning home after all this had brought a smile to her face as she was wanting to see her family again after this whole ordeal.
Still she was cherishing every moment she had with Naruto from the moment she left with him, and with now on her way back home. The training he put her through to help make her stronger, and ready for the world ahead, and his words on her first kill which he had been right. After realizing what she had done she grew to understand what Naruto was trying to tell her. To survive in this world you must be willing to harden your resolve, and kill your enemies. The event with Moryo was the eye opener for her as she now knew there was much more to the world then just shinobi and samurai.
There were demons, true living breathing demons that dwelled out in the world how many were there? How strong were they? Would they become a threat to her home in the future? These were just a few of the many thoughts she had about this. Still Kushina was forever grateful to Naruto for bringing her along since she knew before coming along she was nowhere near as strong as she was now. But now she felt both physically and mentally stronger then she had been before which was yet another thing she was grateful to Naruto for.
Though in the second day after leaving Oni no Kuni Kushina had been growing worried as of late, and her worry was for the very same blonde that had been on her mind for the past few days. Lately she able to read the blond on some level, but as of now she could see nothing his face was completely cold, as if his face was cut from stone. His eyes betrayed nothing to her, and it worried her when she felt the air around her sensei was becoming more tense by the day. Whether he knew it or not it was taking an affect on her.
Still as she looked up at the blond she felt a chill go down her spine it was similar to how she felt when he had her leave the mountain when he faced off against the demon. But this time she knew it was different, she could feel something was wrong with her sensei, but for the life of her she just couldn't figure out what.
Unknown to the redhead, Naruto was thinking on other matters which revolved around one thing...
Or Better yet someone
Naruto had sensed it the very moment he and Kushina left Yoshina's village, a presence that was stalking them from the shadows of the forests. Thing was this was by no means a normal melding into the shadows. This person was actually utilizing a source of energy only himself was able to wield at such a degree. This person was hiding himself in a cloak that made him intangible even to the trained eye, but Naruto knew this energy all too well.
Reiryoku...
Whoever was following them was using spiritual energy in a technique only his Clan was capable of doing. Not only that, but when he reached out with his senses to detect the signature he had to push down the sudden urge to unleash all of his power in that instant to wipe out the presence on the spot. If he given into the urge he would have killed Kushina on the spot as his flames were not one easily controlled even for him.
But it was this signature...he knew it all too well...it was the very same spiritual signature of him, the very thought of the man's name made his blood boil to high levels, and it was to the point he was doing everything he could to keep his power from lashing out at everything near him. Still he rationalized as to why that traitorous cur would actually try to seek him out when he knew all too well he would have killed him on the spot with not a shred of mercy given.
Answer was...something wasn't right, and that put him on edge if that man was anything he was as sly as a Kitsune, but as poisonous as a snake. So if he knew he was alive why come for him?
Seeing that he and Kushina had finally reached a clearly he decided to deal with this pest right now so it was when he and Kushina jumped back into the forest he subtly tapped his finger on the tree next to him and mentally he thought of the spell.
'Bakudō #61. Rikujōkōrō' with the unspoken command Naruto's finer glowed yellow before he deftly tapped the tree before jumping away. This formed a small nearly invisible ingrained seal into the bark of the tree. With that in mind Naruto kept up his pace as he kept up with Kushina and in that moment it a small quirk of a smile crossed his face when he felt his seal get triggered and capture his target.
A little ways off, Naruto spotted a town in the distance so looking back he made his decision so glancing to Kushina he spoke, ''Kushina, I want you to keep going on ahead there's a town not that far ahead, and we can use the time to rest for a bit before we head back to Uzushio. Just meet me at the gates, I just need to check on something, alright?'' he asked the redhead. Kushina while taken back a bit by the fact Naruto wanted to stop by a town since he didn't do so on the way to Oni no Kuni she was also thrilled at the idea of taking some time to rest and relax after the whole ordeal with Moryo.
So with a nod she smiled and spoke, ''Very well sensei, I'll meet you there, but don't too long!'' she tried to act stern, but it only made her look amusing if a bit cute in the blonds opinion, but he blinked at what he just thought. Thinking she got her message across she gave a grin before jumping off while the blond just shook his head before his face turned cold before he vanished from his spot.
Obake gave a slight curse as well as praise for the ingenuity his target had implemented he knew for awhile now that his target had sensed him, but it was his own mistake for not reacting in time to be caught in the trap the man had set up. So it was with a slight pained grunt that he found a total of 6 golden beams of light stabbed into his midsection. It was an unpleasant experience to be on the receiving end of this particular spell, but this one was packed enough spiritual power that it was clearly impossible for him to break.
Then the masked man heard a tap on a tree above him, and he ceasing his struggling when he looked up to see the cold icy blue eyes of Oda Naruto staring back at him.
''Ah, seems I'm caught...'' he commented lightly, but Naruto just remained unresponsive as he stepped off the branch landing infront of Obake. The ANBU took no notice to this as he had to strain his head a bit to look up at the taller blondes intense gaze. However the minute he did he felt his body freeze when he found behind those icy orbs was a smoldering inferno ready to be unleashed at the slightest twitch.
That moment Obake knew he was dealing with a very powerful entity...
'Those eyes...master was right, this man is truly dangerous...those are not the eyes of a man...but of something else entirely.' these were the thoughts running rampant through Obake's head, but outwardly he kept up an impassive stature even as the blonde Oda stared down through the eyeholes of his mask, straight into his very being and piercing his very soul.
What Obake didn't know was that in due part to his eternal sleep Naruto had developed a keen ability to see into the hearts and souls into anyone he chose. It was something he came across within his eternal dream during sleep and years of developing and mastering the ability allowed him to use it to such a degree he could tell the differences between anyone and anything by just a look. And when he looked at this man clothed in black and masked hiding his face from view he could feel a few things.
The reiryoku this man gave off was familiar to that of the traitors but at the same time the energy felt less empowering and more subdued. Dull and lifeless without the essence of life itself nor the bright light of living flowing through the reiryoku. Essentially reiryoku was spiritual power and any practitioner worth their salt knew they could manipulate the reiryoku to any degree they wished it was only limited by their own mind. However every person all had their own reiryoku signature, and if you were an actual living entity no matter if you were a human or animal it would still flow with life.
But this man...no this thing was in all manner of speaking the word spiritually dead as if he had no true soul, but clearly the thing had one if he could speak with him like any other person.
''You...are not the man I aim to kill and yet you are very familiar to him. Yet at the same time you are not among the living. Your a hollow shell, not one of human life, tell me abomination of nature, what are you? Or better yet, who sent you?'' he said as his eyes started to grow darker and more menacing. This grew when he saw it, the almost unnoticeable twitch, but it was there and he knew right there this...thing was definitely connected to that traitorous cur.
''….Your far more perceptive then he first described you as, but I'm afraid I cannot allow myself to be killed by you just yet, Oda-sama I have yet to fulfill my master's desires...'' he said causing Naruto's eyes to narrow before he plunged his now fire engulfed hand into Obake's chest only for his eyes to widen by a margin when the mans body became intangible at the last second. Obake just floated out of the kido spell causing it to vanish. Appearing a few feet away from Naruto he spoke as his body became tangible once again.
''But I am not so arrogant to think you can't kill me even with my abilities so in a exchange for you to let me live I will give you some information that is crucial for the survivability of your, traveling companion Uzumaki Kushina.'' he said causing Naruto halt in his advance as he took a minute to process and weigh the pros and cons of whether or not to just kill this man or tear out the information he wanted from this thing before ending his existence.
The thought of Kushina's life being put in danger nearly made him consider his proposal because while he was hesitant to admit it the redhead had become the closest person to him since he awoke in this new time. Plus he saw some of himself in her from how she took her training with such resolve, it was why he had taken her up as his first apprentice. There was also the fact his partner also pointed at a key fact to his and Kushina;s relationship that Naruto felt prone to ignore at every attempt.
Still this was personal, his life goal, his ambition, his quest to avenge his clan, his family that was slaughtered by one of their own. Betrayed and slaughtered like cattle, it left a foul taste in his mouth, and made the urge to just set the entire continent on fire to find the traitor all the more appealing. Even if that meant eradicating all life on the continent then that would be just another sin he would add to the list of other sin's and atrocities he's done in his lifetime.
So it was with that choice, the blond vanished only to appear infront of Obake, but this time he clenched the mans shoulder and his fingers were coated in a strange black tattoo with a number of different dialects and commas forming around the whole of the blonds hand. Not knowing the effect of this Obake tried to use his ability again only to feel a coursing pain shoot through every part of his body.
''Guh!''
''Don't try and worm your way out, no one can escape the grasp of death itself not even a creature like you. So tell me, what is stopping me from just extracting the information from your cold dead corpse?'' he motioned his other hand clenching his fingers into a claw like fashion before his fingers started to glow a deathly black energy.
'W-what is this vile energy?!'
Obake never knew what fear was, because he never was felt to feel anything of the sort, but he knew from the beginning that this man was in a league of his own, and was to be taken with extreme caution to just hopefully survive long enough to try and flee which would end with absolute failure if the blond was half as capable his master had spoke of him to be. But right here, he felt the cold touch of death literally digging into his shoulder, and he could feel a cold chill of dread come down his back.
He felt fear...
However he had to keep his composure one slight slip up the smallest one would spell his doom on the spot...
''Because if you extract my soul, I will die and all of the information I carry will be destroyed with a seal that's implemented in every Konoha ANBU. Mine in particular erases down to the very core of my brain so even if you kill me you will get nothing in return unless of course you take the alternative choice.'' he proposed while trying to hold back the wince as Naruto's finger dug into his shoulder tearing into the fabric of his clothing and armor as well.
For Naruto, he was debating on whether or not it was a lie, but he knew that today's militant forces took every caution they could to hold all secrets from rivaling factions or villages in this case. So it wasn't too far fetched to be a straight out lie, but the thought of gaining information on the traitor was nearly making him reach the limit of his well known patience. He could be a very patient man, but when it came to this it was already nearing its limit.
'Naruto, don't kill him it may seem like a loss right now, but keep in mind you now know he is associated with Konohagakure. You can always seek him out, and you know his signature by now no matter how unnatural it is so finding him would be simple. What's more important right now is this information he has on Kushina.'
'….But he is the only connection I have to that betrayer...' Naruto responded in kind as he attempted to whether or not kill the man or spare him.
'Tell me then is that information that could quite possibly be destroyed before you even get it more important then information that endangers the life of your own student? The life of your own apprentice? Your father taught you better then that, and you know all too well the closeness of the apprenticeship an Oda has between Master and student are you willing to even forsake your own Clan's traditions for your revenge?!' his inner tenant growled out causing Naruto to scowl mentally, but the words of his partner held too much truth to ignore.
The Apprenticeship between Master and Student for the Oda Clan was sacred it was an unbreakable bond between one another. It was something that was closer then a parent and child, and no amount of tampering could break such a bond. While not officially being his apprentice, Kushina was by all means his unofficial student seeing as he's trained her since the trip began. He'd yet to give it any thought till now to make her his first official apprentice because the changes that came with it were far too big for her to handle.
Still...
He was doing all this for his Clan and yet he was about to forsake his own Clan's traditions to appease his own ambition. Naruto was a lot of things, some of which could only be described as a Monster, a Demon, even a Devil but he was not one to betray the laws of his Clan.
He would not become the very thing he was hunting...
'Fine...'
Naruto eased his grip on Obake as his other hand ceased its glowing, but Obake was held down by the sheer strength of the blond, and still a bit shaken by the display of power Obake was left where he was. Naruto glared down at the ANBU with clear intent to kill him held back with much restraint in his eyes.
''Very well you will live only if you provide me the information you have, all of it and not a single detail left out and keep in mind I will know if you are lying to me. And if you are I will not hesitate to torture you until you will be wanting to be eaten by the Shinigami after I'm done with you. So, speak now.'' he snapped causing Obake to shake his head before looking at the now irate blond Oda.
''Very well, the information I have is regarding to the Sandaime Hokage of Konohagakure, he is named Sarutobi Hiruzen. He is actively seeking out Uzumaki Kushina due to her status as the Jinchuriki of the Kyuubi no Yoko as well as the successor to Uzumaki Mito the Shodaime Jinchuriki of the Kyuubi. He's made attempts to kidnap Kushina during the War between the Uzumaki Clan and the three villages Kumo, Iwa and Kiri. However when the unknown anomaly arrived in the War meaning you he has now made you a target, and is now actively searching for you to determine whether or not you are a threat to his plans and the War.'' he said while Naruto frowned.
'So what those children back during the battle for Uzu meant by Old Monkey, they must have meant this Sarutobi Hiruzen.'
''I see, and you were the first one he sent out in search for me?'' he questioned making the masked man nod in confirmation. There was no denying the truth at this point not with his life at stake.
''Yes, he sent me out to scout you out, but my loyalty to the Hokage is nonexistent he is just a means to an end.'' he said only to make Naruto stare dispassionately as the masked man.
''Where your loyalties lie do not concern me, the fact your still alive right now is because of my mercy. I know for a fact you are connected with the man I am hunting, but you hold no importance to me. The only thing I want from you is the information you have concerning those that seek out Kushina.'' he said getting a small nod from the man who seemed nonplussed by Naruto's words.
''I understand, but keep in mind when I return he will send out more shinobi, and the numbers will grow for he is very adamant to have Kushina in Konoha's ranks. The numbers will grow, and he has an almost indefinite number of assassin's and shinobi at his disposal so fending off a small army will not become an impossibility in the future.'' he said only to get an disinterested glance from the blond.
''That's of no concern, now is there anything else you have to say?'' he said making Obake just shake his head in negative. Seeing this, Naruto with a bit of hesitation let go of Obake however when the masked man got within a few feet away from the blond he stopped before the blond felt a sudden change in the mans persona.
''Before I go...my Master says he cannot wait to see you again and he awaits to see what you will do with this world, Maō-san'' the way he said this was not of the same man seconds prior, but one that held the confidence to speak with the blond on equal ground. However when the blond heard this all self control left him as his azure eyes flashed dangerously.
''You!'' with a flick of his wrist Naruto pulled his katana suppressing the flames as he swung with his strength alone this sent a near invisible crescent of wind forward, but before it hit Obake he became intangible letting the attack cut through the forest before disappeared through the mountain in the far distance. He glared with hate gleaming in the blonds eyes, but the masked ANBU just vanished with a chuckle as he vanished without a trace. If he had stayed any further he would have seen the way Naruto's eyes bled black as his pupils glowed a sinister gold.
'You will die I swear it I will hunt you down to the ends of the earth, and then only then will I tear out your entrails and consume your soul for myself!' however the blond felt his body started to give off a black aura causing him to scowl. His skin started to turn pale as his fingernails started to lengthen.
'What is this?!...I thought I had this kept under control I must calm myself otherwise things will become problematic...'
Unknown to the blond he never felt the slight narrowing of his inner tenants eyes nor the orb hung around his neck giving off a slight mystic glow before it faded.
Naruto took a deep breath as he sheathed his katana. Reigning in his anger he pushed it down as he once again put on his mask of indifference, but one could not deny the look in the blonds eyes as they shifted back to their normal azure orbs. It was a look that held the power to put the fear into hearts of men, subdue the greatest of predators, and bring down demons to their knees.
Naruto was sure of one thing, the next time he saw Obake he would not survive...
No one was allowed to survive with that knowledge of knowing his other name...
Turning his back Naruto didn't spare another glance in doing so he ignore the path of where his attached was unleashed where the trees all fell in unison as it led a 10 mile path in length directly to the mountain where the half of it from the far distance was shifting just before the top of the mountain slid off from the base of it where it impacted with the forest below.
With Kushina
Kushina was beginning to wonder what was taking Naruto so long it wasn't the fact she was worried, but from what she saw of the town it looked like it was preparing for what the locals spoke of was their annual festival. She was curious and asked a few that passed by about the festival. She learned it was a time for celebration of a bountiful harvest they had once every year, and all those local or tourists were welcome.
So understandably Kushina felt like a young child again as she's never been to a festival before and the prospect to be in the festival was exciting to say the least.
''Hm, you seem awfully excited about something, Kushina.'' a family voice spoke from behind her causing the young redhead to jump a few feet in the air in shock.
''AHH! D-don't sneak up on me like that Naruto!'' she said once she found it to be her blond traveling companion and the one she was waiting on for what felt like to her to be hours which in reality was just a few minutes. The blond in question perked an eyebrow as Kushina catched her breath before he looked out into the town.
''It looks like the village is beginning some sort of festival...'' he said noting the way Kushina seemed to give a sigh as she looked longingly at the festivities and stands getting set up. He glanced her way as she shoulder her pack but he noticed her want to stay in the village for it.
''I was able to gather the Festival is to celebrate their yearly bountiful harvest they have everywhere once a year.'' she said making the blond nod in understanding. While he never took part in festivities during his time since that was an age of war and strife he had come to realize these type of events were a bit prominent even amongst wars between shinobi. From what he could understand the common people used these festivities to celebrate a certain event, but used it as a way to take their mind off the war that was engulfing the lands like a plague.
''I see, let's go then and find ourselves a place to stay I'm sure your tired'' he said getting a wide eyed look from Kushina, but the blond just gave a slight smile acknowledging her hopefulness causing her to give a megawatt grin.
''YATTA! Oh thank you thank you thank you Naruto-kun!'' she didn't care that she called his name with such familiarity nor whether or not she made a scene as Kushina threw herself to Naruto hugging him for all he was worth. Now in another time if the blond was ever touched this way his reflexes honed from the training from his father, and the wars he's fought would have made him attack on instinct.
However this was not his time, and while War was prominent it was nowhere near as bad his era so it was to Naruto's hesitation that he put his arms around the redhead. Still he did ignore the teasing rambling from his inner tenant about the whole situation.
'Oh come off it now, Kushina's just excited to be able to join the festival besides you've never had a decent rest or relaxation since I've fought with you so use this chance to relax a bit. Besides you better learn to be comfortable with these type of touches cause I sense they will happen much more in the future.' the entity said with a chuckle causing a twitch in the blonds brow.
'And what exactly is that suppose to mean?'
He could practically feel his partner give an amused grin that just said 'I-know-something-you-don't!'
'Oh you'll learn in time just enjoy your time with your little protege!~'
Naruto would have scowled, but his mental link with his partner was cut so with a sigh he looked down at Kushina who was still happily hugging his form. Placing his hand on her head he ruffled her hair in a slight affectionate manner.
''Come now Kushina, let's go'' his student gave a satisfied hum as she detached herself from him, but he raised an eyebrow when she grabbed hold of his hand. When he looked her way she looked back with an absolute beaming expression. Her hold on his hand tightened as she started to pull him into the village.
''Then let's go!'' she laughed joyfully while Naruto just watched before a ghost of a smile stretched his face. He ignored the looks and curious glances he and the redhead got from the locals as he allowed the Uzumaki heiress pull him along to find themselves a suitable place to stay for a bit.
It was a few minutes later that the two found an Inn suited for tourists, going inside they found it to be simple Inn with not many occupants. Catching the eye of the Innkeeper she waved them over with a welcoming smile.
''Ohayo! Welcome to Mizume Inn, how may I help you?'' the lady spoke, it was a middle aged woman with long brown hair tied in a ponytail. Her chocolate eyes were bright as she welcomed the two into her Inn. Kushina smiled at the kind woman as Naruto took the moment to speak.
''Me and my companion here are looking for a room to stay in for the next few days, do you have anything available?'' he asked. The woman gave a small hum before she looked through her book of entries before she glanced at the two once again before looking back down. It was a minute or two later that the women let out a nervous smile.
''Hehe my apologies, but all of our rooms are taken besides one-'' she said only for the blond to speak up.
''We'll take it'' this got Kushina to go wide eyed as did the innkeeper, but then the prospect of sharing a room with the blond made the redhead's whole face turn beet red all the way from her chin to the tip of her ears. Of course she didn't voice the displeasure as a chibi version of herself was mentally doing a victory dance inside her head.
'Yes!'
The Innkeeper seemed to take it into consideration , but under the stern and as always passive intimidating gaze from the blond she gave in. Besides looking at the blonds companion the girl didn't seem to have a problem with it besides the fact her face was so red it matched her red hair.
''V-very well, the payment is about 300 ryo a night.'' she said
Naruto just dug his hand into his robes before pulling it out and and he placed his offer on the table. ''Very well, here is 3 days pay in advance. Now if you will lead us to our room?'' he asked as the woman took count of the ryo before giving a smile. Nodding she turned around to pick up a key before she faced her newest occupants.
''Very well, if you will follow me I will show you to your rooms, in addition I will show you to the bathhouse, and hot springs here at Mizume Inn.'' Naruto before he followed the woman with Kushina behind him, but the redhead was staring shyly at his back as the prospect of what was to come came raging in her mind. Least to say she was nervous since she would be sleeping in the close proximity of Naruto. The man that's occupied her thoughts, who saved her life, trained her, helped save her home and clan, and made her see a world that was beyond that of Shinobi.
But mostly the man that she was beginning to fall for...
Now she would be staying with him in the same room together for 3 days!
Her father nor mother to be there to watch her nor her twin sister to be at her side.
She had Naruto to herself...
Bringing a hand to her chest she calmed herself even as a soft smile graced her face her eyes strayed on Naruto's back as she followed him along. The encouraging words of her mother came rushing back to her, and she used the words to drive her.
'Take the time to enjoy this trip with Naruto-san, okay?'
Kushina's blush receded, but still stayed on her cheeks as she hoped this 3 day rest would give her some quality time with the blond. She knew so little about the man who's changed her life so much, and made her heart throb painfully at the thought of him being hurt. Hell despite the front she put up infront of Yoshina, Kushina was worried deathly sick for the blond when he faced off against Moryo so when she found him relatively unharmed standing at the defeated remains of Moryo. She lost all self restraint and hugged him for dear life as the events of that day drained her physically, mentally and emotionally.
'Look at me, I really am taken with him aren't I? But seriously, what chance do I have with Naruto-kun? I mean I must look like a child in his eyes, he's done so much already, lived in a era long before our time, and fought enemies I dare to even imagine. I'm only 14 year's old for Kami's sake, and he's technically at least over a century old so there must be some form of law against such a thing.'
And yet why did her heart tell her otherwise? Why was it she felt as if a piece of herself was missing when he wasn't there? Why did her heart throb so painfully at the mere thought Naruto would leave her. Why was it she felt completely safe just by his presence, and his touch sent sparks of warmth through her body.
Unknown to her Kushina never saw Naruto glance her way and he frowned when he saw her downcast expression which made him wonder as to what was troubling the redhead.
''And here we are, this will be your room I hope you both have a pleasant stay, and please come to me or any of our attendee's if you need anything.'' the woman said as she handed Naruto the key while Kushina was shaken from her thoughts. As the Innkeeper left the two Naruto opened the door before he walked inside with Kushina following him. What welcomed the two was a adequate room with a single bed at the left of the wall. There another door that led to the bathroom along with a single shoji screen at the far end.
Stepping inside, Naruto closed the door whilst the redhead stood a bit awkwardly since she saw that there was only on e bed fit for a single person. However Naruto caught this and spoke.
''Take the bed, I'll sleep on the floor.'' when she saw her look at him and was about to protest raised a hand to silence her before he spoke again.
''I'll be fine, I've slept in far worse conditions for now just get settled in and get some rest, I'm sure you will want to wake up bright and early for the festivities.'' he said with a nod, and with a bit of hesitation Kushina nodded back before she unsealed her things. As she did, Naruto walked over to the shoji screen and slid it open to reveal their room to be situated on the top floor as it looked over the village as it got itself ready for its festival.
Naruto took in the scenery for a moment before he closed his eyes for a moment.
'I feel like things are about to become even more problematic for us, wouldn't you agree old friend?'
'Agreed, I'm a bit worried about that Obake character knowing of your other name and possibly the knowledge that comes with it. Not only that, but of what that man has planned since its obvious that he knows your back.'
'It matters not whether he knows I'm back or not infact I want him to know I'm back, I want him know I'm hunting him down, I want him to always be aware that the only being that can kill him is out there tracking him down.'
'Hm yes, but now there is also the fact an entire village is after Kushina, so getting her up to speed so she can properly protect herself from these shinobi is a priority.'
'True...' the blond's face frowned at the dangers Kushina faced and without the proper training to be able to combat those dangers.
'….You truly care for her don't you?'
'….'
'Naruto, do you perhaps happen to...'
'….Love is a weakness...'
'The words of your Father should mean nothing to what you feel, I've seen what kind of man you've turned out to be. You were carved out of the laws and teachings of your Clan never to experience these type of emotions or situations. You can't lie to me and especially to yourself so will you really try to do avoid this chance to know such a thing?'
'We're far too apart in terms of age, I could be her Ancestor for all we know besides we're two completely different people. She's still an innocent soul that has yet to see the horrors of what this world holds. I on the other hand am stained from head to toe in the blood of countless, my soul is scarred and damaged beyond repair. There is no one for someone as tainted as me I deserve to only be alone.'
'….If you truly believe that then your an even bigger fool then I thought you were, Naruto you know by now you will never die by old age. It's something that impossible for you now, but you are still technically in your twenties because you've only slept these years away. Besides you've had to be a blind fool not to see how the two of you find comfort in one another hell when Moryo tried to kill her you unleashed some of your old persona to protect her. That's something I never thought I would see you do for anyone even for your Clan, she's important to you and you know it. Don't deny something that's as obvious as this.'
'Is someone like me allowed to love?'
'That's a stupid question no one, not even the authority of the Kami have the power to keep someone from knowing what Love is or to experience it. Be it Mortal, Angel or Demon alike...Someone like you, especially someone like you deserves to know what it is.'
Naruto's mouth twitched into a small amused smile as he just found the reassurance in his old friends words.
'Who would have thought I'd be getting this kind of advice from you of all people...' his inner tenant gave a rumbling chuckle.
'And who would have thought I'd be preaching this to a Devil like you. Truly the world works in mysterious ways...'
'That it does old friend that it does...'
''Ano, Naruto? I'm back from the bathhouse, are you gonna go take one?'' she asked shaking the blond from his thoughts. Opening his eyes he found the sun was slowly setting showing he was gone longer then he thought. Turning his head his eyes landed on Kushina who was neatly folding her clothes. Amusingly enough she was dressed in a pair of Kitsune themed pajama's with a small Kitsune sleep hat on her head ears and all.
Kushina turned to him only to blush when she saw his amused eyes on her sleepwear but she only gave a nervous chuckle, ''What? I like these pajama's, ttebane!'' she stomped her foot with a huff, but Naruto just gave a slight chuckle before he closed the shoji screen before patting Kushina on the head messing up her still damp red hair a bit.
''It suits you...Kitsune-san'' he said in a rather teasing tone that made the redheads eyes widen in pure shock as she stared at Naruto's retreating back even as her face took on a monumental blush from the blonds words.
Did Naruto just...
The silent, cold, almost always emotionless man she knew...teased her?
''What the hell just happened, ttebane...?'' Least to say Kushina was a bit worried as she slipped into bed. Her thoughts running rampant more then usual as they revolved around the man of her affections.
It was a bit later that Naruto came out in a simple black kimono with his own clothing folded in hand while in his other hand was his katana. Carefully he put his clothes away for the Innkeeper to take and wash in the morning, but when he looked to Kushina he saw her fast asleep in bed. Walking to her side he moved a stray bang of red hair to the side showing her peacefully sleeping face. As he stood there the blond's eyes glazed over as he stared Kushina's sleeping form.
Her sleeping face started to vanish and replacing it was a barren wasteland with a number of countless bodies and corpses littering the battlefield. A storm of a fire raged in the sky as a sea of flames engulfed the lands. Amongst the chaos a monumental beast stood with 10 gargantuan tails waving in the air causing mini tornadoes with the slightest flick of its tails. Its singular ocular eyes spun with concentric rings with 9 comma spinning in its eye. Standing before the monstrosity was the figure of a man engulfed in a cloak of azure fire with what looked like horns sticking out of his head.
A pair of glowing azure orbs from within the depths of a skeletal skull flashed in his eyes, the roar that brought down mountains and caused the sea's to rupture and the world to quake echoed in his ears.
Suddenly the blond shook his head ridding himself of his slight daze, but as it was he spared another glance toward Kushina before he gave a small sigh.
'Red hair as exotic as her's...Crimson, the same shade of fire that is my soul...'
Moving her hair to the side the blond moved away before he sat down at her bedside. Leaning against the wall while propping his katana over his right shoulder. Doing so he let his eyes close ready for a true sleep he hadn't had for what felt like so long.
Same Time-Konohagakure
Melding within the walls of a home within the more noble districts of Konoha, Obake could be seen coming out of the wall. Once fully out of the wall he took only a few steps before he found himself within a certain part of his home, and it was their he instantly fell to both knee's and bowed his head.
''I've returned, Shishou'' he spoke with completely respect and obedience in his voice.
''Ah...good now then. Raise your head, and tell me how did it go?'' an old voice withered with age spoke at the far end of Obake's position.
Raising his head, Obake was greeted to a sight of a long room that was detailed with a number of artifacts and accessories from ancient times. A long black carpet was put forth that lead all the way to the other end of the room where stood an altar to the Deity of Death, The Shinigami. A number of candles littered the altar along with the length of the black carpet. Behind the altar was a piece of red cloth with a familiar flower like symbol in the shade of black.
Kneeling before the altar was an old man dressed in a simple black and white shihakusho, he had long grey hair that fell past his shoulders and stopped at his mid-back. His eyebrows were long as well with the ends falling past his eyes while a long beard fell to the floor in its length with a number of red bands wrapped around the beard itself. The old man in question in appearance looked incredibly old with his face withered by age with wrinkles present while his eyes were closed into squints.
Obake gathered up his resolve and spoke, ''The man, Oda Naruto...he is far more dangerous then you told me. You were right, I would only know how truly lethal he is when I met him face to face. There is a difference between telling me, and meeting the real thing. I truly thought I was about to die. However he is far more perceptive then you originally anticipated he completely saw right through me, and at the very least suspects something about me is abnormal.'' he said causing the old man to give a hum in thought before he turned in Obake's direction.
''I see, so he is still the man I once knew at least its good to know that time hasn't altered his personality at the very least. Still I know little of the changes that's happened to him during his slumber so knowing the full extent of what he capable of is even beyond my expectations. Regardless of this, it would seem I will need to speed up my plans in the light of this new development.'' he said
''From what I could gather shishou, Naruto killed the Demon Moryo, and I suspect he had retrieved the artifact contained within Moryo's Tomb. I must admit I was in awe of the battle between the two never once had I thought I would see such a battle in my lifetime.'' Obake was hesitant to admit this, but the old man just gave a chuckle in response.
''I expected as much, that damned fool Kisuke was too intelligent and more cunning then a fox to hide such a relic anywhere else, and the seals and barriers he put up made it nearly impenetrable for myself to break through. The only one who could would be the Heir of the Oda Clan meaning Naruto himself. As for the battle, well my young student in our time those type of battles were always prominent they were an everyday occurrence and with Naruto's return I suspect they will engulf the world once more. He always did have that presence that could throw the world into chaos...much like his father.'' The old man spoke.
Obake felt himself nod in agreement while he knew little of his shishou's past he knew of the man of legend, the Clan Head of the Oda and Father to Oda Naruto. He was a man whose resolve was said to be able to shake the very heavens and could bring down the very depths of Hell. A resolve tempered with an unbreakable spirit, and the power of Kings at his beck and call. Truly Obake didn't know who was more dangerous, Naruto or his Father.
''But I do have some interesting information you may like to hear, Shishou.'' he said gaining the mans attention as a long grey eyebrow perked up in curiosity.
''Oh, and what would that be?''
Obake just looked directly at his master and spoke with all the seriousness he could muster, ''I believe Naruto has acquired himself an apprentice in young Uzumaki Kushina, the Jinchuriki of the Kyuubi no Yoko.'' he said causing the old man to freeze before his eyes slowly opened a margin to reveal cold, malicious brown orbs that glowed with a sharp deathly edge.
''Is that right? Please, continue...I would like to hear more...''
Next Day-Festival
''Sugoi~!'' Kushina spoke in awe as she walked among the streets of the village she and Naruto were resting in. Her face was lit up in dazzled awe as she beheld all the stalls and games by the stall owners. The small children that ran around in masks playing Ninja or acting like some form of warrior saving a princess. She even saw the preparations of a play getting formed which she hoped to see before the night was over with.
Looking down at herself, Kushina found herself wearing a decorative yukata a gift from her mother for her 14th birthday. It was a mostly red with a pink undershirt along with a dark blue tabi tied in a bow behind her. Detailing the yukata was a number of different flowers with sakura blossoms dancing among the ends of her yukata. On the back of her yukata was the symbol of her Clan swirling in a shade of navy blue. Her footwear consisted of simple socks and a pair of geta sandals.
She loved this yukata not only because it was a gift from her mother, but also because when she had put it on, and Naruto had seen her in it she would swear that he seemed to like it on her especially with how in his own words her beautiful red hair contrasted with the red fabric of her yukata. Least to say Kushina found it hard to speak with how all the blood rushed to her cheeks with that comment.
She suddenly found her red hair to be VERY interesting...
Speaking of her favorite blond, she looked at her side to see him walking with her in step. He was in his usual calm and collective stature fit for one of nobility, but she could clearly see the ghost of a smile on his face. He was dressed in his usual clothing which she seemed to prefer since it was decorative and stylish for a festival. She always wondered how he could keep it clean from his battles and spotless of any bloodstains or tears in the fabric.
Just another mystery she guessed...
However she did notice something was different with him, it was small, but she noticed it, and that was the way he kept close at her side. With his ever intimidating presence he made any boy her age that found her to be eye catching flee from his sight. Most girls would have found this to be bothersome, but to her she kind of liked the way he blocked off those attempts from those boys. But still there wasn't anyway she would like those boys, her affections were already stolen by the blond so it was far too late for anyone to have a chance with her.
Suddenly Kushina's eyes caught a particular stall with a game that made her eyes sparkle in delight. Running up to the stall she saw others try at the game which was trying to hit enough balloons with only 10 senbon needles. Looking up at the blond she gave a smile and spoke.
''Oh! Look Naruto-kun! Can we give it a try?''
The blond raised an eyebrow before looking down at the game and looking at the stall owner for a moment he looked towards Kushina and nodded.
''Sure...'' that seemed to brighten up the redhead before she gave the owner some ryo before she started to give a try. However to Naruto's amusement Kushina's excitable behavior and lack of experience in handling senbon resulted in more then a few misses.
''Mou~ This is hard!'' she puffed her cheeks out in frustration.
Watching as Kushina gave another try, the blond looked at the stall just before his eyes landed on a single stuffed plush that was a red Kitsune. Remembering her pajama's last night the blond decided to act. Standing beside the redhead he paid for his own set of senbon. Then in a display of speed and skill he threw each senbon at the farthest balloons. All ten hit with resounding thugs popping the balloons and digging into the wall behind them.
''Woah...'' Kushina stared in awe as did other locals at Naruto's display, but the blond in question just looked toward the stall owner and spoke as he pointed directly toward the Kitsune toy.
''I do believe I've won, and I would like to have that if you don't mind.'' he ignored the gobsmacked look he got from the owner who shakily got the toy and handed it to the blond. Turning around he presented it to Kushina who looked between him and the plush with shock just before the blond pat her head.
''Take it...'' being watched by others Kushina slowly accepted the plush which she hugged tightly to her chest. Looking at the plush a soft smile graced Kushina's before she looked up at the blond.
''Thank you, Naruto-kun''
''Awww~'' the onlookers cooed at the scene causing Kushina to realize their watchers and her blush intensified. Spinning around she pointed in a random direction and started to walk in a fast pace.
''L-L-Let's go see what's over here, ttebane!'' she said walking on a ahead missing the amused expression from the blond. He just followed her until his eyes caught something from another stall, keeping a close on Kushina he went over to the stall to see a single golden hair clip. It seemed simple, but an idea formed in his head. Quickly he bought the hair clip before he slowly slid it into his sleeve where he channeled some of his power into the accessory. This caused it to give a small bluish glow before the faint image of the Oda Clan symbol flashed within the clip before it faded.
Looking to Kushina he followed the redhead as the two went along with more of the festival.
Midnight-Festival
This was the best time of her life...
That was an absolute fact in Kushina's eyes, she hadn't had so much fun for what felt like years the only time she could remember having this much fun was when she was a kid, and even then that couldn't amount to the fun she had right now. The festival was fun and all, but the fun factor came in the form of spending time with Naruto. Spending time with him like this is what made it all the more fun, the Kitsune plush he got her although she suspected it to be a way to tease her about her pajamas she still loved it all the same. She hugged the red plush to her chest as her eyes every once and awhile glanced at Naruto who was sitting at her side.
The two were seated alongside many of the other locals as they watched a play being formed which told the story of the Ancient Warrior of Legend defeated the Great Demon Moryo which was amusing to watch as it showed the great warrior in the story was a man in ornate robes wielding a katana as he felled the great beast. It was fun to watch, but also to give a teasing jab at the blond who found the play to be a bit ridiculing.
If the slight twitch of his brow was any indication she knew the blond found the whole thing a bit hard to watch.
Still Kushina built up the courage and leaned her head on his shoulder while giving a content sigh. This made the blond cut his eyes away from the play so he could look to see Kushina leaning against him. Raising an eyebrow but remaining silent he just let the redhead do what she wished.
''Thanks for the great night, Naruto-kun.'' she said snuggling deeper into his shoulder while the blond absentmindedly put his arm over her shoulder and pulled her close as the two watched the play progress.
''You're welcome, Kushina''
Naruto never felt himself lean his own head over Kushina's as the play went on...
It was an hour later that we find the duo heading back to the Inn as the stall owners started to close for the night and prepare for tomorrow's second day of the festival. However it was in the dead of night that Naruto stopped causing Kushina to look his way with a raised eyebrow.
''Is something wrong, Naruto-kun?'' she asked only for the blond to look her way before he stepped forward until he was mere inches from her face. Surprised and flushing at the close proximity Kushina got a bit breathless when the blond was so close to her face like he was. However when he got closer she saw him pull out something.
A hair clip?
''Here, while I like your red hair it gets in your eyes most of the time when you train so let's tuck it in a bit.'' Unable to speak the blond tucked her hair to the right a bit before putting the clip in. Looking at it a bit he gave a nod as he commented on how it framed Kushina's hair and face.
''I was right, you look much more beautiful that way I can also see your eyes better this way too so that's a plus.'' he commented not knowing the true weight his words held as they carried through Kushina's ears.
For Kushina she felt as if the world just stopped as the words and actions of her blond echoed within her mind, they replayed over and over as the warmth of his touch engulfed her body. The need to feel that touch again surged as her affection and feelings for the blond at that moment hit a whole new level. Her worries from before just shattered as she looked up at the blond with a strange look in her violet eyes.
''Kushina...?'' the blond spoke, but Kushina just kept looking at him with a unknown look in her violet gems. She didn't know what came over her, what empowered her to move, what pushed her to do what she was about to do. She recognized the first two steps she took before her body reacted on its own. Clutching onto the blonds clothing she pulled herself up to his level and the feeling of her lips contacting with his own.
Then warmth, warmth shot forth like a wildfire throughout every part of her body. Kushina didn't know what took over her, but she decided to take advantage of it and kissed Naruto for what felt like an eternity which was really just in the span of a few seconds. Still goosebumps appeared on her body due to the pleasuring warmth going through her body. With much hesitation on her part Kushina pulled away before giving a whisper to the blond who was frozen their on the spot.
''I don't know what it is that's come over me, but I'll say it now before I risk never having the courage to say it a second time. I don't know what you have that puts this effect on me, but I do know this without a doubt and that's this. I love you, Oda Naruto.'' she said in the softest voice she could muster, but the blond heard her loud and clear which only made his eyes widen by a bigger margin.
He felt her let go of him before she ran in the direction of the Inn leaving the blond alone as his mind tried to come to terms with what just happened. His hand went up his lips as his mind went overboard in trying to comprehend the actions of his student just made on him.
'You've gone and done it now I knew it was going to happen, but not this fast. Although I must say Kushina sure does have a lot of guts to take the initiative like that. Now the only question remains is what will you do, Naruto?'
'….I'm...conflicted...'
'Naturally, but this is your chance to experience what love is and Kushina is the ideal woman for you. Strong willed, An unbreakable will of determination like your own and the nerve to oppose higher echelon positions in the world. It will take time, but I am definitely sure the two of you will work out.'
'...How can you be so sure of that...'
'….Just trust me on this, I mean after all I am YOU there is no one who knows you better then yourself.'
'Maybe, I'll give this a try I guess...'
'Good! Now I just wait to see the little devil children you and Kushina bring into this world in the future!'
Naruto silently thanked it was nighttime as his cheeks turned a bit red as his partners words while his brow twitched in annoyance.
'Now you're going to far you overgrown lizard...'
'….Am I? Your the Last Oda alive, your gonna have to start thinking about your Clan's future sometime soon.'
'I know that...but right now we have more important thins to worry about.'
'True, but still its something your gonna need to think about, but until then I suggest you get back to the Inn and make sure Kushina's alright. I imagine she's in shock over what she just did too, and I daresay she will be too embarrassed to look at you for a long while. It comes with the relationship...'
'Of course...'
Closing the link, Naruto let out a sigh, but still a first true smile crossed his face as he walked back to the Inn. Remembering Kushina's bold declaration and action made an alien feeling come bubbling to the surface of his mind, and the need to console her became a priority. Still as he looked up at the sky the blond thought to himself.
'What should I do in this situation, kaa-san?'
End
This went way off what I intended, but oddly I'm satisfied with this so no sweat off my back. Still I liked this chapter since it gave me more room to expand on Naruto and Kushina's relationship on an even deeper level. Before now Kushina didn't have her usual hair clip until Naruto bought one for her so I thought that would carry some weight.
Plus the fox plush was planned as I've got some interesting ideas for the stuffed animal mwuahahahaha!
The Plush will be linked on my profile if you want to see what it looks like.
Now Next Chapter things get intense with the return to Uzushio, The summons, Tsunade, and so much more!
Now I'm gonna get some shut eye so night everyone.
Shishou: Teacher
Maō: Devil King
Ja'ne!