Not Alone, Not Anymore

by Cyb0rg67

Shintaro has made his fair share of choices all having consequences and his most recent one will be one that will impact everyone's life both in past, present, and future. That choice is to prevent the death of Naruto Uzumaki. Follow Shintaro in his quest as he puts everything on the line for one boy that'll change the world. Mainly focuses on OC then alternates to Naruto later

12. Promises and Accidents

Chapter 12

The Hokage Tower...at least that what it was supposed to be. As it stood now it looked like any other ruined building with the only difference this one had the Uchiha's banner everywhere. There were hardly any carpenters in the village, and no one outside in their right mind would come in to repair it. So many of the buildings were left to whatever able bodied people were left, and the little resources they had to use for building material. Right now the boy, and his sister were walking up the stairs receiving frightening looks or glares of hatred from them only with the boy ignoring them completely. As the boy came up on the door he didn't even have to knock before hearing a voice telling him to come in.

"Enter." a male voice said loudly

The boy did so as did his sister who hesitantly stepped inside the Hokage's office. Once they did enter they were immediately halted as they were thoroughly searched, and removed of any weapons they had on them by Anbu. All while this was happening the Hokage, Sasuke Uchiha was staring at them intensely with his Sharingan active. He was wearing the traditional Hokage clothing only it was colored black, and without the hat as well.

"Afraid of a few kids are we? You're as paranoid as Hanzo of the Salamander." the boy said snidely

"We both know you're not an ordinary child." Sasuke said

"We also both know that's not my fault." the boy said harshly to which the Hokage didn't respond

"So tell me, what does the son of a traitor want with me?" Sasuke said as the boy's eye twitched in anger before he calmed himself

"If that's how it's gonna be then fine your village can rot. Darn, and I found a solution to end this all too." the boy sighed cynically as it was Sasuke's turn for his eye to twitch in anger

"Don't test me." Sasuke said darkly

"You're the one with the almighty Sharingan, you tell me if I'm lying." he said sarcastically

"Or hell, ask the Byakugan user in the corner, I'm sure she's willing to cooperate." the boy said pointing to a darkened corner as the figure came out of the shadows. She was a beautiful woman going on in her mid to late 20's wearing traditional Hyuuga clothing. Her black hair was long reaching to her lower back tied up traditionally, and although she looked more like her father she no doubt resembled her mother as well.

"You've certainly grown S-"

"I told you not to call me by my name anymore Hyuuga." the boy said coldly to which said Hyuuga flinched at his hostility

"Well, then what do you want me to call you?"

"Don't care, be it boy, child, kid I don't care just don't say my name. If you want, you can go the popular route, and call me traitor, demon, or monster like everyone else in this damn village."

"I see." the Hyuuga said sadly

"May I call you child then?"

"Fine, so tell me. What does Clan Head Hanabi Hyuuga want with the Hokage anyways?" the boy asked

"Never mind that I'm wondering what you meant when you said "I found a solution to end all this" or was that a cruel lie?" Hanabi said somewhat accusingly

"As much as I love to screw with you guys I have better things to do than to waste my time with the lot of you. That wasn't a lie, and I meant what I said about ending this, though it will take some time." the boy said seriously

"On what grounds should I believe you?" Sasuke asked

"A few months ago on a delivery run I ran into your wife, and told her that I'm immune to this epidemic of yours." the boy said surprising everyone in the room save for his sister who knew about this

"However, that is only because of what's inside of me." the boy said as their, or mainly Hanabi's hopes were crushed in an instant

"However, that has only increased my already near invulnerable immune system. I came to this theory, and wanted to prove it on my own. I thought that if I could somehow prove it I could finally get what I want as well as give you people what you want. Freedom." the boy said as Sasuke glared hard at the boy

"You very well know you're situation in this village. We've allowed you to live this long because of your usefulness to us, and because you've proved your loyalty." Sasuke said with a small smile as the boy clenched his fist in anger while Hanabi looked at Sasuke with disgust

"You also know your situation, need I remind that Shinobi these days are dropping like flies, those with developed or developing chakra coils are more prone to infection. In other words the younger you are the more chance there is for infection. I'm sure you understand that better than anyone." the boy said cynically as it was Sasuke's turn to clench his fist in rage

"How do you know about that?"

"You should be aware of how gossip can travel between children, especially with girls."

"My own daughter then?"

"You tell me, I found it through second hand knowledge. Besides, does it really matter where I got that information? What I have in my possession might save her as well as the rest of the clans here in order to keep them alive."

"What's stopping me from pulling that information out of your brain right now?" Sasuke said as his Sharingan changed into his Mangekyo Sharingan.

"Because if you do that the information will be lost to you forever, and not even I will be able to retrieve it. I'm fully aware of all of your visual powers, and are aware of their capabilities with every stage. If you use Tsukuyomi on me, or the Izanami on me the information pertaining to the cure will be erased instantly, and not even a thorough sweep of my brain through the Yamanaka's jutsu will bring it back. You'd be amazed of what you can do with fuinjutsu can do. And don't even bother searching my place, I'm not stupid enough to leave evidence behind like that."

"You put a seal on yourself in case something like this might happen. Tell me, was it that snake witch or that old fool of a swordsman that taught you how to use seals?" Sasuke asked

"Their name's were Anko Mitarashi, and Zabuza Momochi." the boy said angrily

"No matter, who taught you that?"

"I did."

"You?"

"I'm from a family of seal masters. Coming up with this was child's play, you may have forbidden me from learning ninjutsu, taijutsu, or genjutsu, but you forget the power of fuinjutsu. To be honest, I'm amazed you're that arrogant to think fuinjutsu is of no use." the boy mocked as Sasuke gritted his teeth

"I see, there's no point on dwelling on it then. But that means fuinjutsu is all you have, even so that means your more than a threat than you already were." Sasuke said in a knowing voice that only the boy knew what he was talking about

"If you do what I know you're thinking of don't bother, she also has protective seals on her to prevent anyone from touching her that means her harm. Be it friend or foe no one is safe if they attack her from a distance or up close." the boy said knowing that Sasuke got the message clear in his head

"You thought of everything didn't you? Tell me...did you think of this?" Sasuke said as he aimed his Mangekyo Sharingan at the boys left arm and whispered one word

"Amaterasu."

---

Back with the original Shintaro in the Forest of Death after he left with Regashī

9:03

Walking slowly through the forest Shintaro encountered more of the pods that he saw in rows by the hundreds, only these seemed to be….different. These pods were bigger way bigger, covered completely with various fungi, were a darker shade of green, and seemed to be held closed shut by thorny vines wrapped tightly multiple times as if they were supposed to be keeping something in. Regashī seemed to have noticed this

"Those were Mother's Elite Children. They were intended to be Mother's vanguard against the main forces the humans. They were originally humans who were about to die, but Mother took them in to….recruit them for her cause. Most refused, and were either killed on the spot, turned to the lesser children where you found me, or were used as food." Regashī said plainly

"Wonderful. I'm guessing these are the few who accepted her proposition?" Shintaro asked as he continued to walk

"Yes, these few were actually enemies of Konoha some dating back to before the 3rd Human War, but retaining their original forms once they received Mother's gifts to them. However, once she was caught by the Hypocrites before they were ready to properly use their gifts. So she was forced to put them to sleep until she found a way to escape her prison." Regashī said bitterly

"Seems like you have some resentment for the Aburame clan. So, what are you exactly? You're obviously not one of the many who refused are you?" Shintaro asked bluntly

"No, I have no memories of ever leaving that pod. Nor do I have had any interaction with Mother other than her voice talking to me in my head. From the way that I talk to my movements and everything else I know has been taught to be me by Mother through assimilation. In other words all her experiences, interactions, battles fought, skills have been passed down to me as I lived through them myself. Like dreaming a previous life you had not living out your own." Regashī explained

"Interesting, however you didn't answer my question. What are you?" Shintaro asked again

"She's my daughter." a new loud and raspy voice said with superiority out of nowhere putting Shintaro on full alert (think the Rachni Queen from mass effect 3)

"Joōbachi I presume?" Shintaro asked knowingly

"Yes, Human. I am Joōbachi, Queen of all insects. Now, tell me 'cough' Human was it you that broke the seal that has held me prisoner for 'cough, cough' so long?" Joōbachi asked with her voice surrounding Shintaro.

"I am." Shintaro replied

"Then you have my thanks Human. But I am afraid you have come too late." Joōbachi said regretfully

"What are you talking about?" Shintaro asked

"This body was 'cough' artificially created long ago, it does not have the durability or longevity of your human bodies. It did not help when that accursed fox went on a rampage 5 years ago; his chakra has poisoned my children's 'cough cough' development as well as deteriorating my health even faster than it was. The only one I was able to keep safe with all my strength was Regashī, my true daughter among the others in those pods." Joōbachi said confusing Shintaro

"True daughter? Wait, you don't mean…."

"Yes Human, Regashī is the only child that I have brought into this world through 'cough' your means." Joōbachi said confirming Shintaro's suspicion

'To think she attempted a birth through human means. I suppose it's possible, Zwei gave her a humanoid shape, but I don't think he took it that far….unless she experimented on herself using the humans she killed as a basis to apply human like organs for most things including her reproductive system. Question is...who's Regashī's father?' Shintaro thought to himself as he looked at Regashī

"Mother? Mother where are you?" Regashī pleaded after holding her tongue for her mother's sake.

"Over here Regashī. Come, and 'cough' please let me look at you with my 'cough' own eyes." Joōbachi said with her voice now centralizing in one location westward past Joōbachi's Elite Children pods with various large insects pulling away branches to reveal Joōbachi.

The figure that was Joōbachi was mainly covered in black hooded robes covering most of her body save for her face which was shown to look like in her late 30's with a yellow tint of skin only it was paler showing that her life was in her case literally fading away, her eyes were also pure white orbs indicating she was blind, and to top it off she had some sort of tribal tattoos covering her face.

"Mother!" Regashī said as she ran into her mother's arms burying herself into Joōbachi's chest hugging her tightly

"I'm sorry Regashī, I'm sorry I 'cough' have to leave you so soon after 'cough' finally being able to see you, but 'cough cough' I don't have long. You need to leave, the Elite are starting to wake up, their minds are far gone, and I can't 'heavy cough' keep them 'cough' restrained for much 'cough' longer." Joōbachi said gently rubbing Regashī's head.

"No! I can't leave you, not like this, not when I finally get to see you. Please, there has to be a way!" Regashī pleaded desperately reminding Joōbachi of how stubborn her daughter is

"I'm sorry, but 'cough' time's running out 'cough cough' I can already sense the 'cough' Hypocrites coming this way." Joōbachi said embracing Regashī tightly before pulling her away.

"No, we can fight them, and the human boy can help us." Regashī said pointing to Shintaro who was sympathizing with Regashī as it reminded him of bad times

'When did she get so emotional? Personality improvements aside, she's just like me….but she at least gets the choice of giving her mother a peaceful death with the knowledge her daughter will survive….just like me eh? What a joke. Still, this changes everything about my plans. If what Joōbachi said is true then Regashī may be able to help us in the long run.'

'Too bad, I was looking forward to having leverage against Konoha. Now let's see if I can't use this to my advantage, and help out a fellow orphan in the process….well future orphan now, but by the looks of things that'll change very soon...maybe I can change that. Alright time to make my move.' Shintaro thought as he began walking towards Joōbachi

"Hello, my name is Shintaro, and if you wish I can offer your daughter protection from these Hypocrites." Shintaro said modestly

"Tell me Human, for what purpose did you have for finding me?" Joōbachi asked as she knocked out her daughter unconscious subtly

"To put it bluntly get you out of here, and help protect my friends from a most despicable character….actually a monster with little to no pity or regard for any type of life be it human, animal, or even insect life." Shintaro said bitterly

"So, you only seek my presence to fight for you?" Joōbachi asked angrily with her voice raised

"In the long run yes." Shintaro said simply causing Joōbachi to growl in anger

"However, if you decide to not to accept my offer I could've offer you safe refuge in an environment suitable for your needs. This refuge would be hidden from every human on the planet with the only one access to it would be me, and whoever I trust with the information to access it. And my trust is very hard to come by." Shintaro said seriously before Joōbachi had a chance to retaliate.

"This refuge of yours….would I be able to 'cough' raise more children on my own if interrupted, and give me enough time to recover my health properly?" Joōbachi asked curiously

"Yes." Shintaro replied

"Would Regashī be given access to this refuge?" Joōbachi asked

"Yes." he replied

"What is this refuge that you believe is safe from the Hypocrites?" Joōbachi asked with her interests peaked

"My own personal dimension that I alone created from separate dimensions binding them together using secret sealing techniques that again only I know. You would be able access this dimension through usage of a seal I would tattoo somewhere on your body of your choosing using a special ink that I concocted. You only need apply a small amount of your chakra, and even a smaller amount of blood, be it your own or someone who also contains the seal similar to yours. I can even give you your own special seal called which I call a Master Seal which would mean I can give you the ability to apply this seal that you would design, and can apply to anyone you desire, like your daughter Regashī." Shintaro explained raising Joōbachi's interests more and more

"This human is honest of what he wants from me, unlike that damn Zwei who deceived me to know end of what he wanted from me. He used me for his own gain, and in turn I used his species to aid me in the future. This human seems unlike the others, the only people that act as reminders of him are that peace loving Hokage Hiruzen, and that perverted sage Jiraiya only they did nothing to help my revenge. They never understood my pain, and never will, they thought I could live in peaceful coexistence with Konoha as allies when all they wanted was my strength to crush their enemies only to rid of me later. Let's see if this human is the same."

"Can you 'cough cough' take us there now? I can sense the Hypocrites coming closer." Joōbachi asked almost desperately

"I'm glad you asked. I just so happen to have the ink that I need to tattoo the seal with me right now. Shall I?" Shintaro said grabbing a small vial of ink out of his ninja pouch

"Yes, please 'cough' I'll do anything if it means I can spend more time with my daughter." Joōbachi said moving the sleeve on her left arm exposing it to Shintaro.

"On two conditions. The first being when you are properly healed, and have gained all of your strength back I simply ask for your aid for one battle to come that I know is on the way. It is your choice to involve your children, and I won't get in your way if you still choose to attack Konoha. Though I will advise you that it is not a wise course of action for you to take. The second condition is that if you choose to attack Konoha I ask that you wait 11-12 years from now since I'll no longer be a part of it.

"So, he is different from the rest." Joōbachi thought to herself

'And it'll give them enough time to gather their strength on both sides. So it'll be a fair fight, and I could care less who would win at all.' Shintaro thought to himself

"Those are the conditions that I set; if you choose to accept them good on you. If not I'll still protect Regashī regardless of what happens. I can't very well in good conscious leave a potential future orphan to defend herself when she would have just lost her mother. However, I cannot guarantee what actions she'll take after you die, I'll do my best to convince her to calm down, but I can't promise anything. Who knows, she'll probably rage against Konoha, and do what you did years ago fight it out killing any Konoha citizen she can until she dies. Although I'm sure they won't repeat what they did with you Joōbachi, you know firsthand about their….methods of handling situations like this." Shintaro said with absolute seriousness in his voice

"He's right, my daughter has a strong heart, and a stubborn mind as well. If I were to die right now she'd undoubtedly attack Konoha, and die in the process. I can't have that, no I won't allow it."

"Yes, this is true. My daughter would surely avenge my death in a fit of rage, and she only has merely but a small fraction of my power. However, she has the potential to surpass me given that all I've done for her she only needs time to develop her skills. My hatred for Konoha, the Hypocrites, and humans in general should not be her burden to bear. My daughter deserves a chance to live out her own life however she chooses….give me, and my daughter the seal. I accept your terms, I may have to wait, but maybe now this is the chance to live in peace from the humans without suffering in this infernal forest. Who knows, maybe I'll forget about revenge in the first place. I just hope I live long enough to see my daughter live her life the way she wants." Joōbachi said looking at her daughter

"Very well, I'll take you up on that. Please give me your hand this will only take a minute." Shintaro said taking out a kunai to embed the seal into her body

"This'll hurt so it's a good thing you knocked out Regashī, but I'll make this quick." Shintaro said as he dipped the kunai in the ink as he began to carve the seal into Joōbachi's hand, and Regashī's shoulder.

---

9:16

10 minutes later after Shintaro carved in the seals into the two insect-human hybrids in their respective parts, and Shintaro used a shadow clone to carve a seal into his back half an inch underneath the snake seal he used for Viper and Venom. This seal was identical to that seal the only difference being two small bees circling each other in spiral like formation; Shintaro now began to explain what they needed to do.

"Now, all you have to do is apply blood onto the seal or focus your chakra into it, and the blood pay will be taken from you internally. I have already applied to the set destination the seal is supposed to go. I have asked an informant of mine what type of environment is best suitable for you. If you have any complaints about it or wish for me to change something about it then all you have to do is ask. Got all that?" Shintaro asked Joōbachi who nodded

"Thank you hu-Shintaro-san, you have given me a chance to live out the rest of my life with my daughter. If it it's possible may I ask you a question before I leave?" Joōbachi asked to which Shintaro nodded.

"Is there a way to communicate with you when I am in need of an answer? I doubt that I can show up wherever you are when I want without causing trouble." Joōbachi asked

"Sort of. The seal can send signals like morse code. I haven't worked it out perfectly, but it's what I have at the moment." Shintaro said demonstrating by sending a morse code message through his insect seal

"I see, I have not yet learn morse code or whatever type of code you use for yourself Human. For the moment one signal will mean I seek an audience with you. Two will mean it's urgent, and 3 will be a warning that I am coming to you personally. I leave Regashī with you so she has a better understanding of this world." Joōbachi said

"Thanks for the heads up. Hope you get well soon." Shintaro said before Joōbachi disappeared before his eyes with Regashī in his arms.

However, as Shintaro began walking down from Joōbachi's resting place with her daughter he was confronted by multiple Aburame members with Anbu behind them along with Kushina next to them, and Akihiko who was resting on a tree branch.

"Hold it right there! You are trespassing on forbidden ground! Where is Joōbachi?" the head of the Aburame clan said coolly, but with authority

"In a better place. Now move, I have an errand to run." Shintaro said dismissively

"Do not speak to Shibi-sama like that child!" one of the members of Aburame clan said in monotone rage

"Why? Does he get special treatment because his glasses are bigger than yours?" Shintaro said passingly

"Shintaro, this is Shibi Aburame head of the Aburame clan. He's a good friend of mine, and I would appreciate if you cooperated with him." Kushina said sternly

"I did. I said she's in a better place, and that's where she is." Shintaro said continuing to walk before being surrounded by a large amount of insects

"Move, and those insects will cover you head to toe sucking your chakra to exhaustion." Shibi said neutrally, but leaned towards hostility.

As Shintaro stopped in his tracks he put down Regashī gently against a tree, and continued to walk without a thought.

"So be it." Shibi said as he surrounded Shintaro in his insects

"Shibi! I know this is a delicate situation, but you can't do something like this. Release him at once!" Kushina snapped

"Ninja Art Wind Style: Internal Hurricane." Shintaro said calmly as a huge powerful gust of wind came to blast off all of the insects off his body

"Bugs, such a pain don't you think?" Shintaro said as he continued to walk without a care dusting off his shoulder

"What was that?" an Aburame member asked

"Ninja Art Water Style: Hidden Mist Jutsu." Shintaro said as a thick mist covered the area putting all of the shinobi save for Akihiko, who was merely observing, on full alert despite them being blind to their surroundings.

"Where'd that ki-" an Anbu said as he was knocked out followed by two more Anbu then the Aburame members fell as well leaving only Shibi, Kushina, and Akihiko standing as the mist faded away revealing Shintaro holding Regashī again in his arms.

"I don't waste time when dealing with battles like this. Your men are fine, they're just knocked out. Note, I could've killed them without a thought, but I chose to let them live since I don't believe in senseless killing. Joōbachi is no longer in Konoha nor is she a threat to you at this time or in the near future. Her daughter Regashī who I hold in my hands is under my protection. Any harm you wish to inflict upon her I'll personally see that it is returned 10 fold. I am a master of a multitude of Kiri's village's jutsu like the Hidden Mist Jutsu you just saw along with their Silent Killing technique being taught from Zabuza of the Seven Swordsman firsthand."

"I have many other talents that I have yet to reveal to even my comrades that'll be more than enough to handle someone like you Clan Head. I am taking Regashī, and Akihiko to No Man's Land to receive something of value to me. What that is is none of your business. Now we can either fight each other, leave each other be, or fight against Joōbachi's Elite so we don't die." Shintaro said nodding his head to the pods holding Joōbachi's Elite children were now bursting open

"Choose quickly, because I have. Akihiko, let's get moving we're leaving for No Man's Land now. Ms. Uzumaki, I leave my sword in your capable hands because you'll need it. These aren't like the mindless foot soldiers you've dealt with; these are past Shinobi who probably have knowledge of their previous abilities." Shintaro said as he left with Akihiko leaving the two adults with the raging ex-shinobi.

As Shibi stood there processing all that's happened he finally spoke.

"This Shintaro acts like Jiyū don't you agree? With everything going on I have no time to investigate him further though I will say this. He's dangerous, and should be under watch." Shibi said as he turned to the pods behind them

"That child is heading to No Man's Land, a place that kills pretty much any human that moves, just for the sake of finding a flower for his friend on her birthday. He has little to no respect for people who think they deserve it outright no matter who they are. He's hardly what you call open about himself, and although he won't admit he wants what's best for his comrades despite how he feels for them. He's like Jiyū in every meaning."

"Jiyū, that's someone I haven't seen in a long time, not since the end of the 3rd War. I wonder if he's alive as well. He always protected the weak, even though he would be up against all 5 Great Nations he would protect the innocent bystanders caught up in the collateral. Come to think of it, Jiyū was a swordsman, a sealing expert, he never feared anyone or even when the odds were stacked against him. Sure, he was an idiot sometimes, acted like a pervert sometimes as well, never took anything seriously even if it was a life or death battle, but that just added to his likability. Actually, if there's one person I had to say Jiyū would have trouble with the most it would have to be Minato. They never did get to see who was stronger now did they? Shintaro acts just like him almost like he's Jiyū's...no, that can't be right, but now that I think about him again Jiyū also had blue..."

"Hey, Shibi you don't think Shintaro is-"

"Perhaps, but if that's the case then I have no doubt that he'll return alive." Shibi said as he prepared himself for battle

"Yeah, so do you want to wake up your pals or what?" Kushina said swinging Shintaro's sword around getting a rhythm going.

"The fight would go easier, and it would be less stressful to worry about them. However, we don't have time for that seeing as they have woken up. I'll just send some insects to quicken their recovery." Shibi said looking at the pods being ripped open on the inside.

"Ok, let's see what these rinky dink Elite's of Joōbachi can do." Kushina said cockily gripping the sword tightly preparing herself for battle

"It's good to see that you have not lost your spirit even in times like these Kushina-san." Shibi said also getting into a fighting stance

"You know me, The Red Hot Habanero is back to kick some ass!" Kushina said with a fire in her eyes as the shinobi trapped in the pods finally emerged free to eviscerate whatever was closest to them.

---

9:24

As the trio made their way closer, and closer to No Man's Land Shintaro thought it be best to wake up Regashī now

"Hey, Akihiko hold up. I need to wake her up, and bring her up to speed on the situation." Shintaro said to Akihiko

"Sure, just don't take too long. My claws are aching for blood." Akihiko said stopping for a quick rest

"Alright." Shintaro said as he rested Regashī on the trunk of a tree

"Hey, sleeping beauty wake up." Shintaro said flicking Regashī's forehead prompting her to wake up

"Ugh…." Regashī moaned as she rubbed her eyes

"Good see you among the living. How's that arm of yours?" Shintaro asked lightly prodding the shoulder in which he embedded the seal.

"Hurts a lot, but….where's Mother?" Regashī asked worriedly getting up fast

"Calm down, she's fine, and in due time she'll probably make a full recovery. Long story short she's in a separate dimension in which I sent her there for her safety, and I alone have access to at the moment. You'll meet her soon enough you just have to trust me. That seal on your shoulder is basically your key, all you have to do is focus some chakra at that point, and you'll be able to visit her at will." Shintaro said as Regashī eyes widen at this.

"However, your mother told me to watch you while you learn how to live in this world. You up to speed now or do you still have questions?" Shintaro asked while Regashī was silent for a few minutes before speaking again

"Why?" Regashī asked quietly

"Why what?" Shintaro asked confused

"Why are you doing this for us? You've hardly known us, and most people see us as freaks from what Mother showed me. Why, why are you helping us?" Regashī asked skeptically

"Simple, when I first heard about your Mother it just gave me another reason to dislike (and that's putting it lightly) Konoha, but when my group decided to live here I looked into your mother's story. Then when I found the possibility of her being alive I wanted to help get her out for two reasons. 1. Because she shouldn't be held captive for trying to not let her children become mindless slaves."

"2. Because I needed her help in defending my friends from someone, but that was a side benefit if I could convince her enough, which I did. So there you have it plain, and simple. You satisfied?" Shintaro asked getting up giving her his hand

"For now, yes. Now what do you need that requires my help or rather my mother's help? I'm not as strong as her when it comes to her signature insect control jutsu." Regashī said also getting up accepting his hand

"That's fine, I already figured that. Since your mother isn't here we can't go all out in a full blaze of glory." Shintaro said jokingly

"Aww, why not? I was looking forward to that." Akihiko said

"Because I don't want to waste time fighting an endless wave of old ass zombie ninjas….which suddenly sounds awesome in a way, but we can't unless we want to die a slow painful death." Shintaro said

"Fair enough, so what's the plan?"Akihiko asked

"Get in, find the flower, grab it, then fight our way out of there through the never ending horde of zombie ninjas….which again sounds awesome, but we can't spend forever there." Shintaro said walking in front of the two

"Simple yet fun, my kind of plan." Akihiko said cracking his knuckles

"If Mother want's me to learn from this world because of you then I'll serve you in return for knowledge." Regashī said standing behind Shintaro

"Just don't slow me down bug." Akihiko said while Regashī glared at him

"As long as you don't die in the first 5 minutes kitty cat." Regashī said playfully with a smile while Akihiko growled at her

"Enough you two." Shintaro said turning around while the two, for the moment anyways, stopped their bickering

"Akihiko, I want you to run in there roar as loud as you can, go crazy, and grab the attention as many of those zombie ninjas as you can distracting the majority of them. You're free to attack them in anyway you see fit just don't get caught by them. Got it?" Shintaro said while Akihiko grinned menacingly

"Be the distraction huh? I'm so gonna enjoy this! Can I engage the enemy?" Akihiko asked hopeful

"Like I said yes, but only if you're cornered badly, and if you haven't gathered a big enough crowd of them. Don't bite off more than you can chew, and try not to get yourself killed I still have more planned for you." Shintaro said

"Fine by me, it's better than killing off small prey." Akihiko chuckled cracking his neck

"Now, Regashī your job is to keep whatever is left of them occupied by using whatever insects you can control. You don't need to stop them indefinitely just slow them down enough so I can get what I need. Got it?" Shintaro asked

"Understood. How long do you think it'll take for you get what you need?" Regashī asked

"Shouldn't take long. I already know where it is, and since I'm not alone it'll go even faster." Shintaro said

"Question." Akihiko said

"Ask then." Shintaro said

"I saw you earlier using a clone technique. If I'm correct that was a shadow clone. Am I wrong?" Akihiko asked

"No, that was indeed a shadow clone. Why?" Shintaro asked

"How many of those can you make?" Akihiko asked

"About….500 ish without feeling fatigue (and that's without resorting to my backup chakra). " Shintaro said raising an eyebrow from the tiger child, and bug girl

"Then why do you need us? Why can't you just spawn groups of them, and just use your distraction that way or just fight them off with numbers? I'm not complaining about my part, it just came to mind that's all." Akihiko said curiously

'Because the last time I tried that I nearly died. The numbers thing is a good idea, but considering the amount of time that's passed since the first Hokage went through here not to mention I don't have a clue how many people have actually died in here. So the numbers idea is shot to hell. Well, I suppose I could find the damn relic that's causing all of this madness, but that might warrant more risk than it's worth. That would score some points with that Watcher merchant, but for now the flower is all I need.' Shintaro thought to himself

"Simple, I want to see what you two are capable of as future comrades of mine. I need to get an understanding of your strengths and weaknesses so I'll know what I have to work with." Shintaro half-lied

'Not the full truth, and not exactly a lie. However, the best lies come with a tiny dash of truth once in a while.' Shintaro thought to himself

"Huh, makes sense I guess." Akihiko said

"Of course it does you brute. He hasn't seen us in action, and wants to determine what we're capable of." Regashī said annoyingly

"Tch! It was just a question bug bitch. No need to get so fucking mad at me." Akihiko said glaring at Regashī

"Then don't ask stupid questions pussycat." Regashī said making Akihiko growl

"Enough!" Shintaro yelled

"Regashī there's no such thing as a stupid question, and since when did you get so hostile? You weren't like this when we first met." Shintaro observed

"My personality had not set it in yet. Everything I learned came in at once from Mother's memories, her accumulated knowledge, and even to how I reacted to them which spawned my personality." Regashī said with a small hint of pride

"So you were a bitch from birth basically?" Akihiko asked rhetorically giving Regashī tick marks making some kind of long insectlike pincers come out of her back which she launched at Akihiko's face stopping them only inches away

"I also have her past battle experiences, and her fighting style integrated into me. So I can hold my own in a fight, especially against someone like you." Regashī said seriously when Akihiko was about to counter when Shintaro interrupted them

"Water Seal Release: Water Blades." Shintaro said as two 5 ft long water swords that looked like katanas appeared from seals from his arms extending between Regashī and Akihiko between the two separating them

"I said that's enough! Gah! It's bad enough that you two fight without pause or reason, but I don't need to deal with you two killing each other within the first 5 minutes of meeting each other. Now, can we get a move on or do I need to beat some sense out the two of you?" Shintaro said putting each of the water katanas to each other's throat

"Sure, the less time I have to be with her the better." Akihiko grumbled

"Agreed." Regashī said retracting her pincers into her body.

"At least you have some type of defense Regashī I was wondering how you we're going to defend yourself. But at least now I don't have to worry about you in that respect." Shintaro said respectfully as the water katanas he made retreated back into the seal his arms.

"At least someone recognizes what I can do." Regashī said

"And that attitude of yours will get you killed so keep it together out there." Shintaro said causing Akihiko to snicker

"Alright we wasted enough time here as it is. Everyone knows their parts, let's move out!" Shintaro said sprinting towards No Man's Land followed by Regashī, and Akihiko both determined to show what they can do to impress Shintaro in a silent contest exchanged by looks of determination.

---

Now the Forest of Death was not known for it's friendly family fun filled tourist spots which was a given, but each of them had something special to them. The Land of Beasts had it's giant variety of carnivorous animals with battered trees everywhere, skeletons from said animals, and giant paw prints from said animals. The Unholy Nests, the actual one, had it's death like atmosphere with insects crawling everywhere that would be then end of you if they caught you. Both of those places have warranted caution to avoid even going near them; however, No Mans Land had no caution, gave no warning that this is probably the most dangerous place in the entire forest.

In fact this forest gave no feeling like that at all; it looked like a normal part of any death filled forest can be, almost peaceful with it's flower filled bushes, harmless birds chirping about, and even peaceful small animals that would scurry every now, and then. Rookie shinobi often rested here in hopes of seeking shelter, and a good nights sleep….those shinobi never returned again with no trace left of them. No Man's Land was exactly that full of everything, but man. The Reason?

No one knows the origin, but rumors about it say it being the will of the forest itself protecting it from man in general given that this was the place that the Senju, and Uchiha clan often duked it out when they had their big battles often leaving the forest in a battered state almost reducing it to a field. Whenever someone would enter here in the day they would often leave you be, it was at night that they would become….active. They wouldn't outright come out of the ground, and attack you, oh no that was only if you got out the first time.

What they did the first time was that their hands only would rise from the ground first grabbing your limbs to stop you from struggling, then your mouth to keep you from screaming, then finally your throat to keep your breathing. After they have finished the job, not killing mind you only knocking you out, they would then drag your unconscious body underground through the dirt dragging you deep underground. Only to wake you up still grabbing hold of your limbs to have you wait, and wait, and wait for you to die slowly while you struggle helplessly silently screaming for help with the only thing looking at you are the decayed fallen shinobi with their cold, empty eyes whispering to you

"One of us, one of us, one of us!" over and over driving you mad. Fun place right? And that's during the night for sleeping!

However, Shintaro was attempting something that would actively drive every one of them out from their graves to kill him outright. That something was attempting to take something from the forest, and that something was very precious to the forest, a big no no unless you want to die. As the trio made their way closer to No Man's Land Shintaro raised his hand as a signal to stop.

---

9:30

"Alright, here we are. You guys ready?" Shintaro whispered while the two nodded

"Akihiko, I don't plan on wasting time here. It'll only take about 5-10 minutes for me to find this flower. Listen, these fuckers can run as if they were alive and scream like a banshee which will attract more of them; you better not trip or anything stupid like that. They can't feel pain, they don't have emotions, and they definitely don't have any mercy. When we're done I'll send out as many clones as I can to distract them so we all can leave. Got it?" Shintaro said seriously

"Hmpf, easy enough. It'll give me a good chance to see the limits of this body at least." Akihiko snorted

"Regashī you're with me. I at least know if worst comes to worst Akihiko can turn into a giant tiger to escape. I'm sure you can hold your own, but I don't want to chance anything. Understood?" Shintaro asked

"Yeah, I understand. Just don't coming to my rescue ok? I want to prove to myself I can fight like Mother did." Regashī said solemnly

"I get ya, just don't die on me." Shintaro said

"As if." Regashī said smirking

"Now, Akihiko. Why don't you give our friends a wake up call?" Shintaro said while Akihiko grinned

"No problem." Akihiko said as he got up, and prepared his lungs for a roar loud enough to wake them all up. He'd roared a mighty roar as loud as his lungs would let him before jumping down closer to the forest screaming loudly

"COME ON OUT YOU ROTTEN CORPSES! JUST TRY TO CATCH ME AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Akihiko laughed maniacally.

It didn't take long for the ground beneath him shook violently as hundreds of hands were popping out from the ground followed by the corpses they belonged to screaming a high pitch scream alerting even more of them prompting to chase after Akihiko who was already running from them getting their attention. As the rows of zombie ninjas came after Akihiko, Shintaro decided to make his move.

"Alright, that was more than I hoped for. So, ready to go?" Shintaro asked

"Yes, let's get moving before they come back. I don't think we'll last long against those things, not at our current strength anyways." Regashī said

"Agreed." Shintaro said as he got up

"Alright, can you send out some scouts to see if there are any stragglers?" Shintaro asked

"Sure, no problem." Regashī said as a few beetles appeared from Regashī's back landing on her hand

"Ok, you guys check it out ok?" Regashī asked her bugs who flew ahead

After about a few minutes of waiting Regashī got the answers she wanted.

"Ok, there's not that many left if any. We should be fine if we move quietly." Regashī said

"That's what I wanted to hear. Now, let's get going." Shintaro said moving to quietly sprint to where he needed to go followed by Regashī.

As the two quietly made their way through No Man's Land they ran into some stragglers who were about to warn others with a scream, but were silenced with kunai thrown at blinding high speed taking their heads clean off courtesy of Shintaro.

"Wow, I never knew kunai could do that. Even though their corpses they still had armor around them." Regashī said surprised

"They normally can't, but when given a speed boost from some wind chakra they can do some incredible things." Shintaro said retrieving the kunai from them

"Are you serious? Aren't they a little dull by now?" Regashī said surprised

"It's called being frugal, and besides they're not that dull you can just sharpen them again. Not to mention we don't have the money to buy new supplies, not yet anyways." Shintaro said continuing to walk

"So, you're broke?" Regashī asked

"Not exactly in total we have combined around 300,000 or so ryo, but that's split up between the main group of 12 for housing, food, clothing, allowances for the side group of 11, and other such basic things so we can't spend money on weapons as much as we would like. Not to mention since we're taking you, and Akihiko in that's two more mouths to feed. Not to mention your….wardrobe could use some work." Shintaro said looking at the torn clothing that she was wearing

"H-hey! It's not my fault I'm like this." Regashī said embarrassed covering her chest

"That's mine by the way. The skirt's courtesy of Ms. Uzumaki the red headed lady, you should thank her when you see her again." Shintaro said

"S-sure. Thanks for the clo-wait you didn't see me….you know." Regashī said afraid, but more embarrassed to speak

"I did, what about it?" Shintaro asked plainly making Regashī blush

"H-how can you just admit that!?" Regashī asked profusely while Shintaro turned around face to face

"Simple. I. Saw. You. Naked." Shintaro said with air quotes

"So what? It's not like you have anything to sh-OW!" Shintaro said rubbing his head while Regashī was blushing like a madman

"P-pervert! Pervert pervert pervert! Gah, I can't believe I actually thought you were a good person with morals, but no you're nothing but a-" but she was interrupted when Shintaro tackled her to the ground tossing a few more kunai to decapitate more dead shinobi covering Regashī's mouth

"Shhh! Look, I know what I did is wrong by normal standards for you girls, but I was kinda in my mission mindset at the time like I am now so seeing you naked like that didn't have a huge impact on me. Now, we're close by so there's going to be more of these guys around. So, can you keep a cool head or not?" Shintaro whispered to her removing his hand

"I can but, can you get your hand off my chest already?" Regashī asked embarrassed while Shintaro looked down quickly removing his hand getting off of her

"Oh, sorry about that. You good now?" Shintaro asked giving Regashī his hand

"I'm good. So, where's this flower of yours anyways?" Regashī said grabbing his hand pulling herself up

"30 meters due north." Shintaro said pointing north

"Well, let's get going then. I'm sure the pussycat is getting his fair share of trouble as it is." Regashī said chuckling to herself

"All the more reason to hurry." Shintaro said as he began to sprint to his destination followed by Regashī.

With getting closer, and closer running into more dead ninja Shintaro found the garden patch that contained the flower he was looking for. Walking slowly, and gently Shintaro whispered to Regashī.

"Ok, when I cut the flower I'm sure more of these undead pricks will come to try, and kill us from behind. This particular flower has an unusual very thick stem so once I start cutting they'll start coming for us out of nowhere. Got it?" Shintaro whispered

"Got it." Regashī said preparing herself for battle

"Ok, on three. 1...2...3!" Shintaro said as he started to cut the flower while two undead shinobi came like Shintaro said out of nowhere.

However, Regashī was prepared as she sliced the two heads clean off their bodies with the four long pincers hidden in her back, then 3 more popped up from the ground, but Regashī repeatedly stabbed them in the head each popping their heads off.

After a few minutes of cutting the flower, and Regashī decapitating the undead Shintaro turned around to see the piles of heads rolling around with Regashī panting almost out of breath.

"You ok?" Shintaro asked looking at the panting girl

"What 'pant' took you 'pant' so 'pant' long?" Regashī said in between breaths

"Hey, flower separating especially this one is tricky work. If I didn't do this right we would've have more of those undead bastards on our asses. Besides you handled yourself pretty well." Shintaro chuckled.

"Fuck 'pant' you." Regashī said trying to catch her breath

"I see you're still in high spirits. Now, stay right there. I'm going to give you some relief." Shintaro said walking closer to Regashī about to put his hand on her chest only to be smacked away.

"The hell! I 'cough' thought you said you weren't a pervert." Regashī exclaimed

"I'm not, I was just going to help you catch your breath by regulating the airflow in your lungs. Which are in your chest last time I recall. Besides I want to check your lungs, it seems there might be something wrong with them." Shintaro said

"Oh, that's 'cough' nice of you, sorry I'm 'wheeze' having trouble 'cough cough' breathing." Regashī said with troubled lungs

"Ok that's it, sit down. I'm not a medic, but I can at least help a bit." Shintaro said putting Regashī down on her butt applying his hand on Regashī's chest.

"Ok, just breathe. In 'inhale' and 'exhale' out. In 'inhale' and 'exhale' out." Shintaro said repeating himself while fixing/inspecting Regashī's lungs.

"In 'inhale' and out 'exhale'." Regashī repeated calming herself

"It seems that your lungs haven't fully developed somehow, at least in comparison to normal human lungs anyways. Anyways it seems that your stamina, when you're using those pincers anyways, is all but gone to hell, but you managed to hold your own against all of them so that gives me an idea on how much you can handle."

"I recommend using those as a last resort until we can find out what works for you by checking you into a medic I know. For now take it easy so you'll recover faster, but we need to move now. I can already smell them coming here. All we need to do is leave the borders, and we'll be golden. For some reason they won't venture out of their own territory so we'll be fine." Shintaro said as he summoned 300 clones surrounding them

"Alright you guys go find Akihiko, and tell him it's time to get out of here. Once one of you find him only one should dispel to let all of the other clones know. Got it?" Shintaro said to his clones.

"Right!" they all repeated before heading off in separate directions to find Akihiko

"Ok, we should be going as well don't you think?" Shintaro said looking at Regashī

"Yeah, my breathing has gotten better, but do you think we can take it slow for now?" Regashī asked

"If in any other situation yes, but right now we're in a dangerous situation. Here, until you've gained your full strength back." Shintaro said extending his hand

"What?" Regashī asked

"Do you prefer piggyback or bridal style?" Shintaro asked teasingly

"Piggy back obviously, wait wha-whoa!" Regashī said as she was grabbed by Shintaro now on his back as he sped through the forest

"What the? Put me down! I can walk you know!" Regashī said repeatedly smacking Shintaro on the head

"Ow! Would you-Ow! Stop that! Unless you-OW intend on walking away from-OW them be my guest!" Shintaro said nodding his head to behind him while Regashī looked to see a giant swarm sprinting at them like mad.

"EEEEK! RUN! RUN! RUN! RUN! RUN! RUN! Ruuun!" Regashī yelled squirming like mad unintentionally smacking Shintaro in the head again

"I would if you stop hitting me! Your squirming isn't helping either!" Shintaro yelled as he continued to run

"Then run faster! They're catching up!" Regashī yelled in despair pointing behind them

"Ugh! Fine, but don't blame me if you fall off! Hold on!" Shintaro yelled

"What are yo-whoAAAAAH!" Regashī she yelled as she barely held onto Shintaro's neck as he somehow doubled if not tripled his speed with her legs flailing all over the place.

Meanwhile with Akihiko

"The hell's taking them so long!?" Akihiko asked himself as he was running from the hordes of undead shinobi behind him.

"No matter how many I kill these fuckers, it never seems to make a difference." Akihiko said as he crushed the skull of one of them that tried to attack him from above

"Found him!" a familiar voice said running towards him

"About time! Hey, where's that bug girl?" Akihiko asked

"I'm just a clone, the original is already on his way out of here. Head over to the rendezvous point 40 meters west from here. I'm going to dispel now so the others will know where you are now. Just hold out until then ok?" the Shintaro clone asked for confirmation.

"Yeah, just don't take your sweet time." Akihiko said as he took out another's skull with his fist as the clone dispelled itself.

"Ok, time to kick it in high gear!" Akihiko yelled as he jumped in midair landing on all fours like his usual from, and ran faster than he did on two legs running towards the rendezvous point.

As the clone dispelled all other clone's including the original instantly knew where to go to help Akihiko

"Found him!" the original Shintaro said turning to where Akihiko is.

As all of the clones received the information they all swarmed the hordes of undead behind Akihiko and all said one thing in unison.

"Water Seal Release: Water Wall!" they all shouted as a tall, thick, wide wall of dense water stopped the hordes in place

"Impressive!" Akihiko said looking back for a second before sprinting again at full blast.

It wasn't long for the three to meet up together at the intended spot; as the trio were a safe distance away from No Man's Land they took a break to catch up on their rest

"Man, that was something wasn't it?" Shintaro said catching his breath

"Yeah, I think I may have dulled my claws a bit." Akihiko said looking at his claws covered in blood

"Hey, what's with the bug girl hanging off of you like that?" Akihiko said pointing to a distraught Regashī still hanging off Shintaro's neck

"Oh, yeah I forgot she was doing that." Shintaro said taking off Regashī's arms off his neck putting her on the ground unconscious

"So until she recovers have you accepted my offer about the seal?" Shintaro asked

"I have, and I can certainly say that despite being in danger like that it was the most fun I've had in years. I look forward to working with you more." Akihiko said extending his fist grinning

"Then welcome to the club….Scar." Shintaro said bumping fists with Akihiko

"Already changing my name huh?" Akihiko chuckled

"No, you're still Akihiko. Actually I should say Akihiko Tora is your new name. Whenever I admit someone into our group I give them a nickname suitable to a physical trait, personality quirk, or any other characteristic that I first think of whenever I think of that certain person. Although, I mainly use them when were on missions to prevent using our names. So, the fact that you're covered in scars from multiple battles I thought it'd be suitable." Shintaro explained

"Scar huh? I like it. So when do I get this seal of yours?" Akihiko asked

"Right now." Shintaro said pulling out a kunai, and the bottle of ink with Akihiko's grin dropping fast

"This is gonna hurt isn't it?" Akihiko said dreadfully

"If you can hold it in you'll get a steak for dinner tonight." Shintaro said teasingly as he got closer to Akihiko who merely growled

"Fine." Akihiko deadpanned

"Now where do you want it? Chest, back, arm, leg, hand?" Shintaro said pleasantly

"On the left side of my face underneath my eye." Akihiko responded pointing to the scar free portion of his face

"Uh….you sure? I mean I can make it work, but it's gonna hurt...a lot. There's also the matter of people staring at you like that." Shintaro said

"Don't care, if people are going to stare at me, which I know they will, it's going to be somewhere where I proved I'm comrades with you." Akihiko said

"I see. Well, good on you. This'll take longer than it would with any other body part, but I'll do the best I can to make this quick." Shintaro responded as he started to work on the part of Akihiko's face that wasn't scarred...for now at least.

---

9:36

Meanwhile with the Shintaro clone at the hotel

"Hold still will you?" the clone said annoyed

"But 'wince' it hurts!" Fu said squirming on her bed

"That what happens when you get careless." the clone said applying an alcohol swab to her wound causing another wince

"I swear, you nearly gave me a heart attack when I found you like that." the clone said with genuine worry

"Sorry for making you worry." Fu said dejectedly with her head down

"It's alright, you did the right thing, and I'm proud of your for it." the clone said raising Fu's head by the chin

"Really?" Fu asked

"Really." the clone said with an eye smile giving Fu incentive to hug him

"Eh pep pep pep! Hold it right there missy." the clone said holding her in place

"You still have a cut that needs attention. You can hug me after your injuries are patched up." the clone said plainly getting back to cleaning Fu's wound while she pouted.

"This would go a lot faster if you let Choumei heal me." Fu groaned

"You rely too much on her. I'm not saying it's a bad thing when she heals you, but your body isn't used to such a potent chakra yet. Use too much of it too soon, and your body will burn out faster. Not to mention that even though Choumei's the Nanabi she still has a limit to her chakra just like anything else in this world. Even if that limit is bigger than any normal human on this planet it's still a limit. Not to mention there's that seal containing Choumei preventing full usage of her powers." the clone said in a mild lecturing tone.

"Besides, we're just about done right….now." the clone said as he finished wrapping the bandage around Fu's head

"Now?" she asked curiously

"Yup." the clone said as Fu immediately tackled him on his back nearly taking the two off the bed hugging him tightly burying his head in his chest

"Geez, for such a tiny girl you sure pack a punch don't you?" the clone chuckled rubbing Fu's head stopping when he heard Fu starting to cry softly.

"Hey, hey what's wrong? Did you hurt yourself?" the clone asked getting up into a sitting position looking Fu in the eye that were red starting to fill up with tears

"Nothing, it's just 'sniff' I never had anyone take care of me like this before. I've 'sniff' never been happier in my life, and it's just sinking in. I know I said that stuff earlier with Shibuki, but I think I'm just now feeling what's it like to be part of a family. To matter to someone. Thank you, thank you so much." Fu said said hugging the clone while she cried happily

"You're very welcome, but don't worry about it. I know what it's like to be hated without reason, to be alone like that with no one to help, but no more. You're not alone, you have friends who care about you me included, and that'll never change." the clone said

"Promise?" Fu asked

"I promise I'll do the best I can to keep this family safe, whatever it takes." the clone said sincerely

"Thank you, Shintaro." Fu said while the clone suddenly jerked a bit

"Something wrong?" Fu asked

"It seems that we're going to have a few more additions to the group when the original me comes back." the clone said looking out the window

"Oh, ok. Well, that just means more friends right?" Fu asked

"Sure, why not? Now, Fu you need to get some rest. That wound of yours cut deeper than I thought, but you should be fine now if you take it easy." the clone said as he got up from the bed.

"Awww, but I'm not tired." Fu whined

"I didn't say go to sleep, I just said take it easy. Lie down in bed for a while until I come back. I'm gonna go make something for you to eat, unless you're not hungry." the clone said while Fu's stomach grumbled loudly as if it was crying for food while Fu squeaked in embarrassment covering her stomach.

"Exactly, now just sit tight. I'll come back with some food in a bit." the clone chuckled as he opened the door to find Kimimaro in front of him

"Oh, uh pardon me. I was just going to check on Fu to see how she was doing." Kimimaro said slightly nervous

"She's fine, just a cut. It was a little deep, but nothing to worry about." the clone said in assurance

"That's good….well, I guess I'll be leaving then." Kimimaro said

"Actually, can you watch her until I come back with some food? She needs to get some rest, but we both know she can't stay still or do something detrimental to her health." the clone said pointing to a restless Fu rolling around in her bed in frustration.

"Yes, Fu can be a little….energetic when told not do things." Kimimaro said looking at Fu who just fell of the bed landing on her head

"Agreed. Just keep an eye on her till I come back please?" the clone said slightly exhausted

"I'll watch her, no worries." Kimimaro said entering the room

"Thanks." the clone said closing the door to Fu's room.

Walking in the hallway towards the stairs the clone ran into Shusuke who was climbing up the stairs likely to his own room. The two met eye to eye simply glaring at each other not speaking a word as they walked past each other to their respective locations. As the clone was about to remain silent he said this.

"The original should be back within the hour, and with more assets to keep us safe from you-know-who. That's all." then Shusuke grunted in confirmation leaving the two walking away from each other.

It wasn't long until the clone ran into someone else on his way towards the kitchen; it turns out that Ayano was leaving her room for something for what he didn't know, but it looked like she had better times. Wanting to bring up to speed on a lot of things as well as apologize for his….outburst to everyone that made his sister cry

"Hey Ayano-chan." the clone said grabbing her attention

"Oh, hello Shintaro-kun." Ayano said trying to sound normal

"Something wrong?" the clone asked

"It's nothing. Hiromi-chan was just having a hard time recovering from…." but Ayano had a hard time trying to say something without upsetting him

"I understand….sigh how is she?" the clone asked rubbing his neck

"She's doing better, but I thought that maybe you could say something to cheer her up." Ayano said nervously when the clone just remained silent for a few moments.

"I'm not sure I'm the right person for that, I'm sure I scared her enough as it is. Just proves to show I'm not cut for touchy feely stuff. I mean how much can a demon really know about that sort of-"

"But you're not!" Ayano interrupted

"Ayano-chan I appreciate it but let's face it I-"

"No, I refuse to believe such a thing! A demon wouldn't care about anyone. A demon wouldn't have the ability to love someone like a sister or even have one in the first place. Demon's laugh at people's suffering when all you've done is help others. I know when we first met you weren't the most kind individual, but even then you could've left me to those bullies instead of helping me."

"Quit it..."

"I know you're just a clone, but you know as well as I that the original Shintaro-kun is out there trying to find a way to improve our chances of survival as well as doing something for my birthday. Even though I never asked or complain about my flower once or even noticed it losing its color you noticed enough to do something about it….you have a kind heart despite what you say constantly suffering from past events I had not even known about….you try your best in everything presented to you even if it's something you never wanted in the first place."

"That's enough..."

"You've done so much for everyone here especially for Hiromi-chan, and-" however Ayano was interrupted herself when Shintaro grabbed hold of her hand looking at her in the eyes intensely

"Please….stop." the clone said desperately starting to cry

"Why...why are you so kind to me?" the clone asked as Ayano gave him a hug surprising the clone

"Because you were kind to me first." Ayano replied with the clone returning the hug

"Why is it that every time I talk to you I feel like this? I swear it's like you're solely here just to say things that make me feel something I rarely ever feel." the clone said half-jokingly wiping his tears

"And what would that be?" Ayano asked curiously while the clone stopped hugging her to step back to look her in the eye still holding her hand

"Happiness." the clone said sincerely with an eye smile surprising Ayano

"Whenever I'm around Ling, Sadao, or the others I mentioned I feel I can ease up around them, maybe act a little like myself back in the old days. Whenever I'm with Hiromi sure I'm glad to be there for her as her big brother, and I'm more than thankful than I can ever express outwards for her being in my life. The thing is, it always brings back painful memories at one point or another to both my….original little sister, and brother."

"Don't get me wrong Hiromi can sometimes be the only one to make me laugh or, even though you can't see it, smile genuinely. It's just that eventually we'll be separated when I find a way to her parents….the thought of that scares me more than you think, but I'll do it because she deserves to be happy with her parents. Misaka-chan….it's complicated, but the short of it is that we used to be close, but….something happened." the clone said looking down in shame

"However, when I'm with you….I can't explain it, but I feel like can truly be myself like I used to with my old friends….Fumiko, Yumiko, Haruko, Masori, Mariko and the rest were the first real close friends I ever had. When they died parts of me left with them, and with each one I just kept losing hope as well as pieces of my soul. You've been more than a friend to me than I deserved, and for that….I want to ask you something." the clone said squeezing her hand tightly while Ayano's heart was racing.

"A-anything S-Shintaro-kun." Ayano said nervously while blushing behind her mask

"Listen, since it's your birthday, and all I wanted to do something special for all you've done for me. I….made reservations for this restaurant for the two us to go to. It kinda….put me behind financially, but don't worry it didn't do too much damage.

'Yeah right! That damn restaurant better have the best food in the whole country for what they're charging me!' the clone thought as he internally wept anime tears

"So….sigh, look what I'm trying to say is that I want to talk to you….personally about….stuff." the clone said embarrassed now breaking eye contact

"S-Stuff?" Ayano asked trying her best not to jump up, and down in joy

"Yeah…."

"Come on, just say what you need to. Talk to her you damn coward!."

"Look I'm just gonna come out, and say it." the clone said annoyed taking a deep breath

"Is this what I think it is? He's not confessing his love to me is he?" Ayano thought with happiness and hope while Shintaro's uncle was getting into the conversation as well

" Say you want to say to her dammit! Tell her she's important, tell her she's nice, just say somethi-"

"I want to talk about our future together!" the clone said quickly holding in his lungs trying not to scream from embarrassment.

"Well, that was...something."

Meanwhile Ayano's inner self was doing a full dance of joy while her face was crimson red with the blood that came up to her head.

"Close enough!" Ayano thought to herself internally jumping for joy

"Look, despite how we look now physically we both know how old we really are by this point. During that time you've gained my trust that only a few have ever obtained since my life….changed. I feel as if you deserve to know everything about me, and I mean everything." the clone said with his eyes darting to his mask making Ayano's eyes widen

"S-Shintaro-kun! I'm honored you feel that way about me, I truly am, but you don't have to do that." Ayano said, but the clone's grip grew stronger, and even stepped forward only inches away from her face to his.

"No Ayano-chan, I want-no I need you to know that I trust you enough. You might say that you already do, but you haven't seen me without this mask the entire time we knew each other….the reason I wore this in the first place is because I haven't met anyone, new or old now by this point, that I trust enough to know who I am….I hate to say this, but it would also let me know how much of a friend you are."

" 'Inhale and exhale' Ayano-chan if you were to find out who I was, who my family is, and my past with Misaka-chan….would that change things between us?" the clone asked earnestly.

"Shintaro-kun, you've done more for me than I deserve even after finding out who my parents were...including my father. Up until recently I only had a vague idea of what he did to you only knowing that it was horrible, but when you said those things earlier I…." tears started flowing down from her eyes

"I had no idea he made you suffer like that!" Ayano said now sobbing in the clones chest with her head buried there

"All those terrible things, to make you go through that so young….you were, and still are a friend to me despite all that. Most people would not even come close to the relatives of those who wronged them horribly, but you didn't. I'm sorry, I'm so sorry Shintaro-kun." Ayano cried while the clone simply embraced her.

"You don't need to apologize for anything Ayano-chan." the clone said sincerely pushing Ayano away to wipe away the tears on her face when she lightly chuckled to herself

"What's so funny?" the clone asked curiously

"Nothing, I was thinking why are you so kind to me?" Ayano said

"Heh, well that's easy. I'm always nice to the pretty girls." the clone said absentmindedly when suddenly the two realized what he just said both becoming red in the face.

"Er-uh-I mean uh…. 'Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! The hell's wrong with me?' look uh, Ayano-chan I uh…."

"You mean it?" Ayano asked shyly

"Mean what?" the clone said feigning ignorance trying to avoid the question

"I-Is S-Shintaro-kun trying to deny what he said? S-Should I ignore it to? No! You gotta push Ayano! Guren-chan says that being aggressive pays off so please let this work!"

"D-do you t-think I'm….pretty?" Ayano asked nervously not making eye contact while the clone's inner self was smashing his head against an imaginary wall

"Yes, yes I do." the clone said outright hoping to be the right thing to say in the right tone making Ayano blush harder than she did before

"T-t-thank y-you f-for the c-compliment." Ayano managed to say while red faced

"Sure, no problem…." the clone said as an awkward silence between the two was dragging on

"Sooo, I'll just go get some food for Fu now. She's probably hungry by now." the clone said pointing to the kitchen

"O-oh, s-sure go ahead, best not to keep Fu-chan waiting. You know how she is when she's hungry." Ayano said quickly agreeing

"Yeah." the clone said as he two were about to walk in separate directions only forgetting that they were holding hands stopping each from moving only to collide with each other making them fall down in the process.

Unfortunately, that wasn't the only thing that happened, somehow when they crashed together Ayano tried to grab hold of something only to grab Shintaro's mask when her mask was loose from her forgetting to tie it properly as her mask fell with the clone's. This triggered an event that the two would never forget in their entire lifetime. It took a while...a long while for the two youths to realize what happened and was currently happening at that moment.

"So...soft, what is this? I never felt anything like this before, and I kinda like it. It feels...nice, and warm, and...oh shit." the clone thought blissfully until he opened his eyes

"Is this a dream? It feels too good to not be one, but it's not one. This is it, my first, this is my first, and it's with Shintaro-kun. Is this Shintaro-kun's first as well?"

They realized it was their first kiss. It wasn't romantic, and may have been an accident, but they were kissing no doubt about that. That is until the clone's body began unconsciously continuing the kiss.

"W-What am I doing? I shouldn't be doing this, why won't my body do what I want it to?" Shintaro said as his body continued to ignore his wishes

"I-Is S-Shintaro-kun really getting into this? Ooh! Maybe this is a sign that Shintaro-kun loves me!" Ayano thought to herself as she felt something...odd in her mouth

"W-Wait i-is t-that?"

"Stop it you damn tongue! Get out of the-oh kami this feels so good."

"It is Shintaro-kun is actually using tongue! W-When did he l-learn h-how t-to do that?" Ayano thought to herself reaching another shade of red

"Damn it! Stop it body, listen to me for once! Wait! What the hell are you...Oh no no no no no no no!" Shintaro thought to himself as his hands began moving around Ayano's body to...forbidden places.

"Is Shintaro-kun moving his hands...there! W-W-Wait, I'm not emotionally prepared for this, and we're exposed, and my body's not fully developed yet, and I'm not wearing the right underwear for this, and we're not married, and oh what am I'm thinking! I-I-I-I c-can't do this! I-I have to say no! Shintaro-kun will understand right? He won't think less of me after this right? But what if I can't resist and Shintaro-kun is forceful? Oh, this feels so good, but we can't do th-AIIIEEE!" Ayano thought to herself as she felt the clone's hand reaching one of her private parts...which I won't reveal to you dirty minded people.

As Ayano opened her eyes to fully understand what had happened she achieved a new status of red never before seen by man, and steam escaping through her ears like a steam pipe. She then pulled back to scream unintentionally kicking the clone giving him the final blow to make him dispel. Panicking about what just happened Ayano just decided to hide in her room in embarrassment leaving her mask on the floor.

---

9:42

Back with the original Shintaro

Turns out that implying a seal onto someone's face is harder than one thought it would be. However, Shintaro managed to do so with ease, and with minimal pain as possible...which wasn't saying much considering he was scraping away at Akihiko's flesh. Regashī also had gained consciousness by that point so Shintaro decided it was about time to leave by teaching them how to use the seal properly, but not before some of Regashī's complaints.

"The hell's wrong with you!? My arm's feel like jelly because of that stunt you pulled." Regashī said angrily

"You're welcome." Shintaro replied

"So you're complaining about him saving your life? A real bitch through, and through I guess." Akihiko said

"He could've warn me." Regashī said pouting

"I did yell "Hold on" to you didn't I?" Shintaro said sarcastically

"You could've warned me better." Regashī grumbled to herself

"Ok, now that you've got that out of your system let's begin on how to use this seal I gave you." Shintaro said extending his hand to both of them

"What's with the holding hands?" Akihiko asked

"I'm going to teach you at my place A.K.A your new home in this dimension anyways. Not to mention this seal requires precision, and visualization. So unless you want to walk all the way home just give me your hand so we can get out of here." Shintaro explained annoyingly

"H-home? But I thought this seal can take me to Mother?" Regashī said confused

"It can, but you don't know how to use that seal's ability, nor do you have a clue where your Mother is right now. If I explain it to you at home where we can all get a change of clothes, a proper meal and-Gyah!" Shintaro exclaimed as he fell over on the ground rolling while being completely red faced repeating the words stupid, idiot, and baka to himself confusing the two greatly.

"Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid-Stupid! I'm such an idiot! What the hell was he thinking!? Now Ayano-chan hates me for sure! She's never gonna talk to me again! Kami, I'm such an idiot!" Shintaro said flustered rolling around Akihiko and Regashī while taking occasional breaks to bang his head on the floor.

"The hell's wrong with him?" Regashī asked

"Don't know first time I've seen him like this." Akihiko replied

"Gah! Ok, change of plans we leave now. I'll explain everything later, but I need to get home now!" Shintaro said in desperation while also flustered greatly

"What about that Kushina woman? She has your sword, and is probably expecting you to be back." Akihiko pointed out

"That can wait. Right now we're leaving. I'll just leave a clone to explain, and pick up the sword." Shintaro said spawning a shadow clone

"You know what to do." Shintaro said to his clone

"Roger, just patch things up with Ayano-chan." the clone said in a mock salute before taking off

"Oh I will." Shintaro said grabbing Akihiko, and Regashī's hand who protested

"Hey, wait a mi-" but she didn't get a chance to speak as the three children were transported to the hotel.

---

9:49

Finally back to where he needed to be Shintaro, Akihiko, and Regashī stood in front of the hotel in which acted as the home for everyone there

"Ok, I need to clear some things up after I change my clothes. You two go wait in the dining hall for me. It's the first door to the left inside the lobby. If anyone asks who you are simply say your names, and that you're here with me." Shintaro said quickly as he sped into the hotel leaving the two to wonder what has him so worked up.

Shrugging it off the two decided to enter to inspect the hotel for themselves

"So this is my new home huh?" Akihiko said looking at the interior of the hotel

"Seems peaceful enough I guess...I'm bored already." Akihiko said dropping his shoulders

"Geez, this place seriously needs to be cleaned." Regashī said wiping off dust from an old desk

"Disgusting." Regashī said

"This coming from the girl that was raised in a pod filled with fungi, and mucus." Akihiko said cynically

"Shut up pussycat." Regashī said as the two entered the dining hall to see….a bunch of kids picking up pieces of a broken dining table. It wasn't long until they were noticed by someone who recognized one of them.

"Aaaah! It's the pervert!" Misaka said throwing a piece of the table at him when he just flicked it off with his finger

"Oh, you again." Akihiko said annoyed

"What's going on he-the hell are you doing here?" Katsumi said a little taken back now seeing Akihiko in full light grabbing the attention of everyone there

"Nothing, just doing what Shintaro told us to." Akihiko said putting his hands in his pockets

"These friends of yours?" Regashī asked

"Hardly, just some annoying girls I met in the forest. Apparently they've never seen a naked boy before." Akihiko said plainly rolling his eyes

"I bet there was nothing to see." Regashī said smugly with a cynical grin

"Bitch please. If anything they were grossed out about how big it is. Unlike your flat chest." Akihiko replied chuckling evilly

"Damn it! I'm only 10, I still have time to grow!" Regashī said covering her chest

"Yeah, from washboard to mosquito bumps." Akihiko replied laughing his head off

"Pervert!" Regashī said uppercutting Akihiko 3 ft in the air

"That's what you get jerk." Regashī said flipping him off

"Damn, who knew you were that strong." Akihiko said rubbing his jaw

"I'm glad you know that at least. Remember that the next time you open that toilet of a mouth." Regashī grumbled

"Sorry about that. Name's Regashī nice to meet you." Regashī said with a nervous smile

"Yosh! Nice to meet you Regashī-san. My name is Ling-Huan, but everyone calls me Ling." Ling said happily out of nowhere startling Misaka, and Katsumi

"Geez, Ling care to warn us next time?" Katsumi said recovering from being startled

"Yeah, for as loud, and obvious as you are you're surprisingly good at sneaking up at us." Misaka said

"Apologies my comrades, but I was eager to meet whoever was making a racket." Ling said

"It's fine. My name's Misaka nice to me you….Regashī right?" Misaka asked

"Yeah, Mother never had a sense for normality. Just call me Rei if that's easier for you." Regashī said

"Sure. So Rei, what are you doing with that pervert anyways?" Misaka asked

"Not my choice. Shintaro just went crazy on us telling the two of us to wait here until he changes clothes." Rei said

"Shintaro brought you guys here?" Misaka asked

"Yeah, he said he was going to teach us how to use this seal." Rei said pointing to her shoulder, and Akihiko's face

"Wait, isn't that the seal Shintaro has on his back?" Misaka asked

"Nah, I thought it had a snake." Katsumi said looking closely

"I don't know to be honest. He apparently did this to me when I was unconscious so I can go see Mother whenever I want, but hasn't taught me since his….episode." Rei said trying to think of a way to put it

"You call randomly being red face rolling on the ground calling himself a stupid idiot an episode?" Akihiko said walking up to Rei

"What would you call it pussycat?" Rei asked

"A mental breakdown." Akihiko replied while Rei merely shrugged in agreement

"Shintaro-san did all of that?" Ling asked in curiosity

"Yeah, he was explaining how the seal works when all of a sudden he fell over doing what the pussycat said." Rei said pointing to Akihiko whose eye twitched

"Was there any reason for him acting like an idiot?" Misaka said

"Well, he did make a clone to pick up his sword who said something about a girl named Ayano I think." Rei said

"Wait, didn't Ayano scream a minute ago shutting herself inside her room?" Katsumi said

"Aye, she did. When I came to help Ayano-chan she just insisted everything was fine. She was screaming in embarrassment, but also was for some reason giggling to herself repeating "it happened" over and over. I didn't know what to think of it so I decided to let her be until her youthful flames have calmed down." Ling said

"Wonder what he did." Katsumi said

"Don't know, don't care. All I'm doing is when I see that idiot again I'm pounding him into the dirt." Misaka said when suddenly Shintaro came in with a plain undershirt, and some black shorts with a new blue bandanna on his face

"Ok, I'm back now, and settled things with Ayano-chan. Now, let's get to work on your-"

"Die pervert!" Misaka said grabbing her family sword leaving it sheathed to whack Shintaro into the ground multiple times.

"OW! OW! OW! OW! Misak-OW-chan why OW! are OW! hitting OW! hitting me?" Shintaro said as he was being repeatedly whacked by Misaka for a few minutes straight giving Shintaro multiple bumps on the head

"Owwww! What did I do?" Shintaro said rubbing his head

"You tell me you perverted idiot! Ayano was taking care of Hiromi then next thing we knew she was screaming her head off shutting herself inside her room giggling like something good happened to her." Misaka said

"Oh-that-uh….it's nothing for you to worry about Misaka-chan!" Shintaro said worriedly red faced

"Oh? You sure about that?" Misaka said threateningly raising her family's sword

"Y-yeah, nothing bad happened just….an accident that's all." Shintaro said

"What accident?" Misaka said raising her sword

"Nothing I swear! I just kinda….fell….on her face…on her l-l-lips….meeting mine." Shintaro said slowly really embarrassed, and I mean really embarrassed, but felt compelled to answer lest he received another beating

"You…..kissed...Ayano?" Misaka said looking dumbfounded unconsciously gripping her sword tightly making Shintaro flinch

"Yosh! Finally the youthful flames of love has sparked within you Shintaro-san!" Ling said happily only to be bonked on the head by Misaka only it was obvious that she held back unlike with Shintaro

"You dummy, he just said he tripped on her. Still though…." Misaka said darkly looking at Shintaro making him shiver

"You took something sacred to all girls that can never be taken back. What do you have to say for yourself?" Misaka said darkly as an evil aura like a demon surrounded Misaka who was raising her sword for what it looked like an ultimate strike that would appear to outsiders a final blow.

"W-wait Misaka-san!" Ayano said bursting through the doors while Shintaro was mentally sighing in relief

'Ayano-chan you have the best timing ever!' Shintaro thought to himself

"M-Misaka-san please stop hurting Shintaro-kun." Ayano said in an almost pleading voice

"Yes, please listen to her Misaka-chan!" Shintaro said agreeing with her

'Otherwise I might end up dead!'

"You be quiet!" Misaka snapped at him

"H-Hai!" Shintaro said zipping his mouth

"Now, Ayano care to explain what this shameless pervert did to you." Misaka said pointing her sword to Shintaro who laughed nervously

"S-Shintaro-kun d-didn't do anything l-like that!" Ayano lied/protested

"Well he kinda did, but Misaka-san will kill Shintaro-kun if she found out what he...tried to do. I won't let that happen...not if I want to experience that again." Ayano thought blissfully to herself before shaking her head of those thoughts

"Then what happened?" Misaka asked with her hands on her hips

"Uh….we were talking, then we fell, and…." but Ayano couldn't say anymore for her face was flushed with pure embarrassment

"How'd you fall?" Katsumi asked

"I-uh-we-uh….we were…."

"We tripped on each other's legs!" Shintaro interrupted

"Y-yes! W-We were about to walk to different places when our legs locked with each other." Ayano said bobbing her head up and down

"On each other's legs?" Misaka said skeptically not buying it

"Yes?..." Ayano said nervously

"So, you guys tripped on each other's leg's fell down on each other's lips kissing each other?" Misaka said going over everything to which Ayano vigourously nodded

"Something's up, I know Ayano is protecting that baka for something, but what? He did something to her, and I'm gonna find out what." Misaka thought to herself determined to find out the truth, but would have to wait due to an interruption

"Not to interrupt what you guys are having right now, but Shintaro told us to wait for him so he can teach us how to use this seal of his." Rei said with her arms crossed

"Not to mention I still need a change of clothes." Rei said looking at her wardrobe

"And that's another thing I want you to explain. Who exactly are these two anyways?" Misaka asked Shintaro

"Yeah, and can you tell me why he smells like a cat?" Katsumi asked as well holding her nose

"You already met Akihiko." Shintaro said clearing his throat pointing to the scarred boy

"Sup, just call me Aki. It's shorter, and easier for people to say plus I don't want the bug bitch to have an easier name without mine as well." Akihiko said looking at Rei

"Hey! I only said that so people wouldn't have a hard time with my name. Nothing's wrong with yours is there?" Rei asked annoyingly

"No, like I said I just don't want you having something that I don't." Aki said plainly

"Didn't I give you a nickname earlier?" Shintaro asked

"Yeah, and I intend to use it. Now are you going to teach us how to use this seal or not?" Aki asked

"Yeah yeah, I am. Just so you know I may have engraved that seal on the two of you, but I haven't activated it yet. As it stands now that seal is nothing more than a tattoo." Shintaro explained

"Well, than activate it already! I want to see Mother as soon as I can!" Rei said anxiously

"And you will. But first…." Shintaro said grabbing Akihiko walking up to Rei

"Guys, this is Regashī daughter of Joōbachi; her Mom's not in good health right now, and will take some time to recover. So her mother asked me to look after Rei teaching her about the world. Next to me is Akihiko, he was abandoned to live in that forest for the rest of his life being banished from his homeland; he's also a giant tiger that used a forbidden technique to turn himself human. The two of them will be staying with us for some time, and will be part of this group till death do us part."

"Aaand in honor of meeting our new comrades/friends I've already given the two of them their customary nicknames. Akihiko's code name is Scar for obvious reasons, and Rei's code name is Pincer because she's sharp in general, and edgy in her personality. As of now you are to treat them with equality, and fairness as if they've been a part of us for a while." Shintaro said grabbing the two wrapping his arms around their necks that met with glares of protests

"All that's left to say is: Welcome to the Family!" Shintaro said with glee as he let the two go with an angry attitude, but were left speechless at that last part

"Yosh! Shintaro-kun has yet again proved his youthfulness by helping those in need! Truly this is a wondrous day, for we have more comrades with us to extend our friendship too!" Ling said excited while Misaka, Katsumi, and Ayano were having trouble processing the description Shintaro had for the two new members

"Well….welcome I guess. Sorry to hear about your mom like that." Misaka said

"Thanks, I appreciate it." Rei said

"So he's actually a tiger?" Katsumi said confused

"If you don't believe me I can change in front of you right now." Aki said plainly

"Hey! I just got this place, and would prefer if you didn't trash it in the first 10 minutes you're here." Shintaro said afraid for his property

"Sure, if you teach me how to use this seal of yours." Aki said

"Ugh! I swear you have a one track mind when set on something. If it's not fighting it's something else….sigh, but might as well get it over with. However, can one of you girls give Rei-san some clothes? She doesn't have anything else, but what she's wearing right now." Shintaro asked

"Yeah, I was wondering about that. Whose clothes are those anyways?" Misaka asked

"Well, since she didn't have any clothes on when we first met so I gave her my torn up tank top while Ms. Uzumaki tore up her apron to make that skirt she's wearing right now." Shintaro explained while Rei blushed a bit thinking of the thought of Shintaro seeing her naked, and Ayano was also blushing at the thought

"So you mean to tell me you saw Rei naked?" Misaka said dangerously

"Uh….yeah? Is there a problem with th-"

"Die pervert!" she said going into another flurry of strikes smashing Shintaro's head in with her family sword.

"Misak-oof! why-ack-are you-ouch-hit-aye-hitting me!" Shintaro said trying to shield himself

"M-Misaka-san please stop." Ayano said putting a hand on Misaka's shoulder while Misaka reluctantly complied

"Hmpf! You're lucky Ayano's here to save your sorry perverted ass." Misaka said grabbing Rei's hand

"Come with me Rei, I'm sure I have some spare clothes lying around somewhere for you to use." Misaka said leaving with Rei

"Hey, uh Misaka-chan?" Shintaro said nervously

"What?" Misaka asked making him flinch

"I was just wondering where everyone is, and why you, Ling-san, and Katsumi were cleaning up the uh….what's left of the table I should say." Shintaro said calming Misaka down including everyone else

"Oh, Shusuke-kun went upstairs to his room. The rest of the boys cleaned up the bigger pieces of the table taking them to the dump before exploring the rest of the area. Momiji, and Guren took off to go table shopping or looking for something to replace it. And Hiromi…." Misaka said getting quiet at that last part

"Got it, thanks. I'll be here to pick up the rest of the pieces it is my mess after all." Shintaro said laughing weakly

"Ling-san, can you take Aki here down to the basement. I promised him that he'd get to fight in the future, and I intend to keep my promise. That is if it's ok with you." Shintaro said

"Yosh! I'd be glad to show our comrade the strong flames of my youth!" Ling said excitedly trying to change the mood

"That ok with you?" Shintaro asked Aki

"Fine by me, better than doing nothing I suppose. It'd be interesting to see if she can take me on." Aki said cockily looking at Ling directly

"Yosh! I accept your challenge Aki-san!" Ling said grabbing Aki's wrist unexpectedly to him sprinting down to the basement leaving a trail of dust

"Ayano." Misaka said surprising her

"Y-yes?" Ayano replied

"Can you come with me? Just in case I don't have anything for her that fits, plus I want a second opinion in case Rei doesn't like what I have. Not to mention we can talk about….stuff." Misaka said glaring at Shintaro

"S-sure. If you don't mind Rei-san?" Ayano asked

"Eh, I don't mind. Never had friends before to mind in the first place." Rei said passively

"Then come on. Rei's ok with it, and we get to talk about us." Misaka said egging her on

"C-coming." Ayano said catching the with the two girls as they left together

"Katsumi." Shintaro said sternly startling her

"What?" she groaned annoyingly while Shintaro walked past her

"Leave, I don't care what you do. This is my mess, I should be the one to clean it up." Shintaro deadpanned

"Tch! Fine, like I care. Go clean it up then jackass." Katsumi said walking towards the exit

"Katsumi." Shintaro said

"What now?" Katsumi said

"We're not friends that much is obvious." Shintaro said

"Gee, ya think?" Katsumi said sarcastically

"However, we are family or a pack in your case." Shintaro said surprising Katsumi

"Even though I hate to admit it you're family just like everyone here, and that includes the teme as well. I may hate him with a passion, but that doesn't mean I'm going to let him die on my watch. That includes you too. We all have had our fair share of pain in the past. We all have lost something or someone precious to us. It's not fair to say who suffers more or who has it harder. We all have our own way of dealing with it. I may hate nearly everything back in our world including the village, but that village is your home."

"I don't have the right to prevent you from seeing or hoping to see your home again. I made a promise that I'd do my best to get you guys home, and if there's one thing my father taught me before he died it's that you always keep your promises especially if it's to a girl….that's all." Shintaro said as he walked to the debris leaving Katsumi speechless deciding to say nothing, and think about how her opinion of Shintaro kept changing when she thought she had finally figured him out.

'Damn it….just when I thought it was ok to hate him with a passion he pulls this shit. Not friends eh? But instead a family or like he said a pack….I couldn't think of anything else I'd rather be in.' Katsumi thought to herself as she left the room.