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

18. Trouble Here, There, Everywhere

Chapter 18

Waiting on top of a tree branch for nearly two hours the boy decided he waited long enough for Mirai until he felt the presence of someone coming.

"Huh guess she is serious..."

"I'm here." a female voice said out of breath

"I gathered that, came just in time too."

"You said within the day!"

"I didn't say how long I would stay here, and besides I have someone that needs my attention much more than you."

"Then why are you..."

"Here, talking to you? It's because I think we can help each other out."

"Wait what?"

"I know a lot about you Mirai Sarutobi, the last Sarutobi. Unless of course you include what's his name...Konohamaru or something?" the boy said as Mirai's face twisted in anger

"You mean my cousin? The one promised the Sarutobi throne, my father's nephew? The one who married that Hyuuga snob?" Mirai said in disgust

"The very same, so now it's all up to you to carry out the Sarutobi name. Though honestly, clan hierarchies aren't my favorite thing to talk about, and I don't want to linger here anymore than I need to." the boy said

"Fine by me, so tell me. Is it true about this whole...leaving Konoha thing?" Mirai said nervously quiet

"It is, the thing I want to know is this. Are you saying you want to leave Konoha despite being one of it's few able bodied ninja's who hasn't caught the plague yet? One that if I recall, Konoha set up in the first place." the boy said irritably

"H-Hey! I wasn't even in school yet! I had nothing to do with-"

"I didn't say you specifically if I recall. I said the plague Konoha started." the boy clarified

"Oh...yeah what about it?"

"I'm immune."

"W-What! How!? Actually, why isn't there a cure for this already?!"

"Because (shows eyes) this is why I'm immune." the boy said staring directly into Mirai's crimson eyes filled with fear

"W-What the hell are you?" Mirai asked fearfully as the boy raised his bloodlust to unimaginable levels that she had never felt before

"Don't you know? I would've thought it'd be obvious given all the nicknames you people give me." the boy mocked as a twisted dark smile formed on his face beneath the cloth mask he wore

"I'm the Demon Spawn of Konohagakure, and those who deal with me always suffer for it." the boy said coldly as he extended his hand to Mirai

"If you deal with me remember this, you chose this path, not me, and will stay with me until the end. If you choose not to then I'll never speak to you again, and whatever chance you had for freedom will be gone." the boy said unmercifully as Mirai was thinking what she should do

"T-The hell am I doing! I-I know that mom told me to leave w-when I could, but this...is this right? I know how corrupt Konoha can be mom showed me that firsthand, but what would father do? He hated the rule of the 5th Hokage with all the whacked out decisions he made after Grandpa died during the Invasion 20 something years ago, but he still loved it with all his heart. But mom she...I promised her I'd find a way out of here when Auntie Anko died. What should I do, what should I do?" Mirai thought to herself as her mind went a million places

It was only then until she realized that she unconsciously moved her hand closer, and closer to the boy's hand just stopping right before reaching his.

Seeing her hesitation the boy asked one last question.

"Is that a yes or a no?" the boy asked startling Mirai

"Uh..." Mirai said as her hand waved over his going back and forth until she decided to...

---

Konoha 9:35

After leaving her brother for her first day of school Hiromi decided to do her best for her brother's sake, despite her knowing how she is without him. Walking with Naruto, Ino, and Sakura the four kids turned out to be a few minutes late to the class. Entering in the classroom the instructor who appeared to be a young man in his late teens almost early twenties, and had a noticeable scar across the bridge of his nose.

"Hello there, late on the first day are you?" the man said amusingly

"Hehehe, sorry about that. Hiromi here was having a hard time leaving her big brother." Ino said pointing to Hiromi who hid her face in shame.

"S-Sorry." Hiromi said shyly

"It's quite alright, I just got here myself not too long ago. Just try to make it a habit alright?" the man said nicely as Hiromi nodded

"Alright then, please take a seat wherever there's a free one. I'll introduce myself when you're seated then I'll call roll." The man said as the kids nodded looking for a free seat

"Hey Sakura there's some free seats over there, and there next to that cutie over there." Ino whispered to Sakura pointing to a black haired/eyed boy looking bored staring out the window. Sakura who blushed agreed walking to said seats much to Naruto's disappointment who decided to find an empty seat and put his head down in disappointment

"N-Naruto, there's some free seats over t-there if you want." Hiromi suggested shyly pointing to the upper row above Sakura but not loud enough for him to hear

"Ok, keep calm, you can do this. Niichan said he'd be gone two maybe three days at best. He's always been back so, so I shouldn't worry about him...but I still wish he was here. No, I have to do my best for Niichan so when he get's back I'll have a bunch of stuff to tell him." Hiromi thought to herself trying to cheer her up her mood until she noticed that Naruto ignored her offer to sit next to each other

Figuring he didn't hear hear her, Hiromi decided to shyly shuffled her feet to find an empty seat, and sit down hopefully avoiding attention. Sitting down in her chair Iruka kept his promise and began roll.

"Ok, now that everyone is here I'm going to take roll. When I call your name please say something to indicate you are here. Oh, and my name in case you forgot is Iruka Umino, therefore you will call me Iruka-sensei. Everyone understand?" Iruka asked

"Hai, Iruka-sensei!" most of the class said in unison

"Ok then let's begin. Also, please keep in mind these names have been randomized due a certain…secretary's mishaps. So don't expect the names to appear in any particular order like alphabetized, seat numbers or anything else." Iruka said clearing his throat as he raised his clipboard

"Yeah right, I was so nervous on the first day I mixed up everyone's registration forms!"

"Shino Aburame." Iruka called

"Present." a boy wearing sunglasses and a miniature trench coat said quietly pushing his glasses up

"Sakura Haruno." Iruka called

"H-Here." Sakura said raising her hand

"Ino Yamanaka." Iruka said looking at the next name

"Here!" Ino said excitedly

As Iruka continued to list the names Hiromi thought she'd stay quiet until her teacher called her instead. That is until the boy next to her decided to speak up. He was wearing a grey t-shirt with black shorts with normal blue sandals, his eyes were brown slits like an animal as his crazy brown hair all over the place, he also had strange red fang like marks on his cheeks, and a white puppy resting on his head.

"Hey, what's up?" the boy next to her asked startling Hiromi

"H-Hello." Hiromi replied shyly to the boy

"Name's Kiba, Kiba Inuzuka of the Inuzuka clan. This right here is Akamaru my best friend." Kiba said pointing to the puppy who barked happily

"M-My name Hiromi…Hiromi Senpu." Hiromi said shyly barely audible for Kiba to hear

"Shikamaru Nara….Shikamaru Nara?" Iruka said looking around the room

"Huh...oh, here." A boy said lazily before going back to sleep

"Hey Hiromi-wait Senpu? Do you have an older brother?" Kiba asked Hiromi who nodded

"She must be one of the girls that Katsumi chick was talking about yesterday. Dang, she's pretty…eh whatever, I have enough girls in my life." Kiba thought to himself as he looked at Hiromi

"Hey, are you friends with someone named Katsumi or know anyone by that name?" Kiba asked Hiromi who nodded again

"Choji Akimichi." Iruka called looking around the room

"Here." a rather chubby boy in overalls said as he secretly put away a bag of chips

"Oh, so you're one of her friends huh? She's pretty nice, has cool dogs too. She told me all about you guys, and your brother." Kiba mentioned as Hiromi blushed a bit

"O-Oh really? K-Katsumi-san mentioned us?" Hiromi asked meekly

"Yeah, said something about you guys living together for the past 5 years. She also said that most of you guys got separated from your parents or something." Kiba said innocently while Hiromi dawned a sad look in her eyes immediately face planting herself on the desk going into a depressing mood

"Niichan…" Hiromi said quietly in her depressing mood only getting worse

"Oh crap sorry! I didn't mean like that." Kiba said panicked thinking he hurt a girls feelings on the first day of school

"Hinata Hyuuga." Iruka said

"P-Present." Hinata said shyly

"If Mum or Sis find out about this I'm dead! And from what Katsumi told me about her brother this Shintaro guy or whatever he's gonna be just as bad!" Kiba worriedly thought to himself

"Sasuke Uchiha." Iruka called

"Here." Sasuke said as all the girls, save for Hiromi and Hinata, gushed over him with hearts in their eyes much to Sasuke's confusion and greater annoyance

"L-Look uh, I'm sure your brother's find wherever he is, is fine, and probably thinking that you're having a great time at school."

"Really?" Hiromi said lifting her head with a hopeful smile

"Yeah, I'm sure he can't wait to pick you up after school and-AAH!" Kiba yelled in surprise and Hiromi's depression went deeper with her face immediaitely resting on the desk

"Kiba Inuzuka." Iruka called

"What's wrong now?" Kiba asked quietly

"Kiba Inuzuka." Iruka said again looking around the room as he found the person he was looking for

"Niichan's out of the village for 3 days for a mission." Hiromi muttered sullenly

"Kiba Inuzuka." Iruka said now annoyed as Kiba continued to ignored him

"3 days! How's he-?"

"Kiba Inuzuka!" Iruka called as his head enlarged in a cartoon-ish fashion startling half the class including Kiba

"Oh sorry, here or whatever. Now tell me how-"

"If you have something worth talking about then would you care to share it with the rest of the class?" Iruka lectured in his teacher voice

"Uh…." Kiba said looking to a depressed Hiromi wondering if he should tell the class about her problems. Eventually deciding to let them know so that they don't get into trouble Kiba decided to tell the teacher what he wished.

"Her brother is out of the village for a few days, and is depressed about it." Kiba said nervously pointing to Hiromi still having her head on the desk in a depressed aura causing everyone in the room to be interested

"What? Shintaro's out of the village? What for?" Naruto asked surprised

"Yeah, Hiromi. Why'd he lea-"

"AHEM!" Iruka said getting everyone's attention

"That was a rhetorical question. Everyone calm down, and sit back into your seats." Iruka ordered

"Hai sensei." everyone groaned

"Hiromi Senpu I presume?" Iruka asked Hiromi who nervously raised her head

"H-Hai." the shy blonde meekly replied

"Ok then Hiromi, please keep your stories for lunch or after school please." Iruka said in a mild lecturing tone

"Hai." she replied

"Ok then, Naruto Uzumaki." Iruka continued

"Here!" Naruto said excitedly

As Iruka continued to list off the names Hiromi began to wonder how her brother's day was going.

---

Meanwhile with Shintaro

"I said take that back!" Rei yelled in Akihiko's face

"Then make me bug bitch!" Akihiko snarled getting in Rei's face as well

"Enough you two! Or I swear to Kami I'm sending you both back to the village!" Shintaro yelled intensely at the two bickering children merely glared at each other forcing each themselves to be quiet.

"If I knew you two were going to be this much trouble I'd gag the two of you the second we started this trip." Shintaro muttered as they entered a hotel with an unconscious Anko on his back

Shintaro, Akihiko, and Rei along with Jiraiya, Anko, Kakashi, and Itachi were all currently in the Land of Rice Paddies.

After some, or rather a lot of explaining to Jiriaiya, Kakashi, and Itachi the three agreed to take Anko with them less they face the wrath of an angry woman on the way back. That alone was enough to convince the three, and decided to divide the work among the now 7 members of this mission. Shintaro, Akihiko, and Rei were in charge of finding, and rescuing the children before Orochimaru could intercept them, and the rest were in charge of finding, and killing Orochimaru much to Akihiko's despair of being refused of an opportunity to fight a strong opponent. However, with the promise of facing probable strong henchmen of Orochimaru, and another steak for dinner Akihiko settled for that. Right now Jiraiya, Kakashi, and Itachi were scouting quietly around the village to gather any information of recent events.

Meanwhile Shintaro with an unconscious Anko on his back, Akihiko, and Rei were in a hotel finding rooms to rent for the next few days. After lying Anko on the bed he finally sat down to take a break on the side of the bed

"Kami, she really needs to lay off on the dango or else she's gonna get fa-ack!" Shintaro gagged as Anko's unconscious arm was gagging Shintaro from his sleeping assailant continuing to snore away without an idea of what she did.

Using his strength he finally managed to remove the arm that was strangling him as he was breathing heavily much to Akihiko's amusement.

"That's what you get for calling a girl fat." Rei said smugly

"What is it with you women, and your weight? I prefer a woman with meat on her bones, not fragile as a stick." Akihiko said confusingly

"Yeah, so you could eat them." Rei said dreamily as Shintaro and Akihiko looked at Rei questionably

"I'm talking about human women dumbass. Besides, isn't that what bugs do? Eat their mates head for whatever reason?" Akihiko said uneasy looking at the trance Rei was in

"Oh-uh right! He he, that's what I meant." Rei said laughing nervously as both Shintaro, and Akihiko took a step back from Rei

"HEY! I'm not going to eat you! Not that I don't want to..." Rei muttered with a blush as the two boys took another step back

"HEY!" Rei yelled in annoyance

"Kidding, kidding, but you might want to keep that part to yourself if you want to find a man." Shintaro said jokingly

"Along with a few other things." Akihiko muttered

"Scar, be nice." Shintaro chided

"Scar huh? So were in mission mode?" Akihiko asked seriously getting Rei's attention

"Yes, so Scar, Pincer we have a mission to complete. From here on out we shall address each other as these names only until our mission is complete or I say otherwise." Shintaro said seriously

"So what's yours? Your code name I mean?" Pincer asked

"Mine? Oh that's right, mine is Kit." Kit said plainly

"Kit? As in a kid fox?" Scar asked amusingly

"It's something only I would get, but none of that matters right now. Right now we're going to start. Rei, I want you to stay here, and watch over Anko until she wakes up. In the meantime, I want you to send out some insects to set a perimeter of the hotel as well as take a look around here in the village in general, but keep them focused mainly on the South." Kit said to Pincer as she nodded in reply already having bugs crawl out of her.

"Scar, you're going out into the forest area a few miles west of here for scouting purposes. I want you to see if you can find anything about those kids, and if anyone gives you trouble...try not to kill them. I can't get interrogate information out of corpses." Kit sighed as Scar grinned savagely like an animal

"Oh, and before I forget." Kit said stopping Scar from jumping out the window much to his annoyance

"What?" Scar said in annoyance

"We're going to need a password in case someone decides to screw with us." Kit said

"Ok then, what is it?" Pincer asked

"If the qualities of Heaven are your desire, acquire wisdom and knowledge to take your mind higher. If Earthly qualities are what you lack train your body in the fields and prepare to attack. When both heaven and earth are opened together, the path of peril will revert to the righteous path forever." Kit said sagely as both Akihiko and Rei had questionable looks on their faces

"There is no way in hell I am repeating that dumbass password." Scar grumbled

"Ditto, I'm not going to waste my time with that." Pincer agreed

"Ok then, I recorded your responses, and just keep those in mind when I say the password to you two." Kit said with an eye smile as Scar and Pincer looked at Kit with a "Really?" look on their faces

"Then what was the point of that long ass password!?" Scar asked annoyingly

"To get an unique reaction out of the both of you. So, when someone tries to repeat my painfully long password, and you two repeat it I'll know something is up." Kit explained

"Ok, then what about you? What do we have to go on that we know it's you?" Pincer asked

"Simple, I tell you guys how me met in the Forest of Death." Kit said as they both nodded in understanding

"Got it, I'll do my best." Scar groaned as he lept out of the window on all fours

"Does he have to act like an animal?" Pincer asked annoyingly

"Well, he is a tiger after all. Can't fault him for following his instincts." Kit replied

"You know what I mean." Rei snorted

"Of course, I was merely answering your question in the literal sense, but I suppose we should teach him some manners." Kit said dreading of

"Some?" Rei thought to herself with an "Are you Serious?" look on her face

"Ok, more than that, but he's a tiger, and you can't make him change his stripes...especially if they're on his arms." Shintaro joked

"Sure he can't change, but he could at least adapt."

"I'm sure he's trying his best to do that."Shintaro said as Rei merely rolled her eyes

"Sigh, it's going to be boring waiting for her to wake up. So, what're you going to do?"

"Jiraiya, and the others went to a village in the North, you're watching the South, I sent Scar to the West, and now I'm going to investigate the East where a certain clan is facing turmoil due to an ignorant Daimyo...I'm going to change that." Kit said as he took out a scroll

"Kai!" Kit said as a huge triple his size black hooded cloak along with a black fox mask. The mask was colored with 3 orange whisker marks on it's cheeks, and nearly closed horizontal slits for eyes that had orange paint over it extending sideways like daggers took over his appearance, there was also spare clothes similar to what Kit came in originally only bigger.

"Woah, talk about ominous. Although it looks kind of silly since it's on the floor like that." Pincer said feeling a bit unintimidated as Kit didn't respond for a few moments until he started changing into his bigger clothes as he then preformed a jutsu with hand signs foreign to any Shinobi including Rei who has the memories of her mother who has seen many types of hand signs before.

"Secret Ninja Art: Dimensional Match Aging Jutsu!" Shintaro said as his body began making snapping, crunching noises, and grunts of pain came from his body until his body stopped growing as the cloak filled his body perfectly.

He was taller now, much taller as if he was in his late teens nearly in his 20's. His body was a medium build that was built for both power, agility and speed leaning towards power slightly than the rest.

"I'm leaving." Kit said in a new mature deeper smooth voice (think Jack from Samurai Jack)

"S-S I mean...Kit?" Rei said surprised

"It's Kitsune now. When I'm like this it's Kitsune, and when I'm in my younger body it's Kit. Now Rei, if anything happens just think of me or Akihiko coming to help you or wanting us. The seal will activate a mind link between us similar to that of the Yamanaka secret technique's." Kitsune explained

"Damn, do any of the other's know about this? The you turning older bit." Rei said for clarification

"No, and they're not going to. Understand?" Kitsune said plainly but in a tone that Rei understood

"Y-Yeah, sure." Rei replied nervously

"Sorry if I scared you, but it's important we keep this between ourselves for now." Kitsune said seriously

"It's fine, just gonna have to get used to you like this. I won't tell anyone about this, but what about Scar? Shouldn't he know this?" Pincer said as she regained her composure

"I'm sure he'll figure it out with that nose of his." Kitsune said

"Aren't you generous?" Pincer said amusingly

"Thank you, I'm off then. Oh, and before I forget I want you to read these so that I keep my promise to your mother." Kitsune said as he disappeared in a swirl of leaves leaving a book in it's place

"Damn, to think you had a jutsu like this. Makes me wonder though, how old are you really?" Pincer thought to herself as she walked, and picked up the book before she sat down beside the bed watching Anko letting multiple bees fly out of her body and out the window like Kit or Kitsune told her to.

"Let's see here, How to Socially Interact with People your Age Vol. 3 Pre-teens to late teens. What normal girls find "Cute" and Why. How, and When to use Popular Phrases used by everyday children and...How to Master the Art of Poker? Eh, might as well." Pincer shrugged as she opened the book to start reading.

---

Meanwhile, with Jiraiya, Kakashi, and Itachi

Walking through the city streets Jiraiya along with Kakashi, and Itachi were discussing amongst themselves about the mission.

"So, where do you think we should look Jiriaya-sama? Itachi asked

"Why here of course!" Jiraiya said with a perverted grin looking at a sign that said "The Bunny House!" in neon lighting with various women on the signs.

"I like the way you think." Kakashi said happily grinning underneath his mask putting his book away walking in

"A brothel?" Itachi said confused as Jiraiya patted his back

"Boy, you have a lot to learn. Come with me, and learn the information that can be obtained through lovely ladies such as these." Jiraiya said with a perverted giggle as he was about push Itachi in

"I think I'll pass. Izumi-chan won't take lightly to this." Itachi said ducking underneath Jiraiya's arm and backing away

"Oh please, you don't think you're girlfriend is going to catch wind of this do you?" Kakashi said egging Itachi

"Somehow I know she will. I'll look somewhere else Jiraiya-sama." Itachi said as his body turned into crows flying away

"Hmph, well we're going to prove that this intel gathering can be fun as well. Right Kakashi, my boy?" Jiraiya said in anticipation

"Yes, Jiraiya-sama! I'll do my very best." Kakashi giggled while taking a range at the wide variety of voluptuous women present in the room.

"Hi there, my name is Hannah." a big breasted woman said sensually with with a seductive smile that instantly got Kakashi and Jaraiya's attention

"Welcome to The Bunny House, please hop on in." Hannah said seductively as she jumped upward pushing her breasts together gaining the approval of both Konoha nin with a small nosebleed, and a thumbs up

"Gladly!" the two said as they skipped on into the place they mistook for heaven

"Information gathering is so much fun!" the two thought together as they sat down on separate couches surrounded by women.

---

Meanwhile with Scar A.K.A Akihiko

Running on all fours Scar was approaching the forest area in which he was supposed to scout. Jumping on tree branch to tree branch Scar continued to do so for the hour until he smelled something suspicious to him. Deciding he should investigate he slowed his pace jumping down on the floor getting up on two legs.

"Smells like humans, gunpowder, fire and rusty metal...camping? No, there's no smell of human food anywhere near here." Scar said as his stomach growled

"Speaking of food." Scar said as his eye turned to a rabbit hole smelling more than a few residents inside.

"Kit said I should go easy on anyone that give me trouble, but he didn't say anything about grabbing a snack on the job." Scar said as he grinned sharpening his claws with a kunai he brought with him walking to the rabbit hole.

---

Elsewhere in the Land of Rice Paddies Daimyo Tower

The Land of Rice Paddies was a small land, not too big, not too prosperous either, overall a peaceful land that proved decent for anyone to live in, and all of that pissed of the Daimyo, Daichi Tanoshī, to no end. For he only accepted being a Daimyo with the expectations of being a rich, powerful man. Daichi, was prideful, envy, but most of all he was greedy. Money, power, land, food, women, and much more is what Daichi valued the most. He was planning to use the one ninja clan left in the Land of Rice Paddies, the Fuma, to wage war with a neighboring land. The Fuma were hesitant, but were willing to do as their Daimyo requested of them despite their current firepower. This was made obvious by the rumors of the "has been Fuma" going around the Land of Rice Paddies that made Daichi wary of using them with dissatisfying results.

That's why when he received a letter of proposal that promised so he quickly agreed to a meeting of someone who said they had great influence. He was promised to meet him today in a few hours whoever he was, but Daichi couldn't wait this long. He was growing impatient wondering if he was going to show up at all, but he had to wait this offer was coming from one of the Legendary Sannin. If there was anyone that would be able to grant him power it would be him. As he was waiting something in his gut was telling him to back out of this deal as well as an ominous feeling of dread in the room, but ignored them both.

Sitting down in his room eating his dumplings Daichi was in mid chew until he felt a sharp blade against his thick neck.

"Greetings Daimyo-sama." a dark calm voice said behind him with mock respect

Nearly choking on his food Daichi swallowed what was left whole, and tried to talk only for the blade on his neck pressed on him more.

"No, no, no, we can't have you calling for help that would make things so much harder. No matter how much you want to squeal little piggy. Got it?" a very distorted high pitched voice that could not define it's gender said cracking lightly with wicked laughter

"W-What d-do you want?" Daichi whispered nervously

"Nothing much, though your head will do nicely as a basket. I can hollow it out, and hold as much food as I want, maybe even those dumplings your eating right now. " the light voice snickered evily making Daichi sweat bullets

"Enough, we have a mission, and we need him alive." the dark voice said sternly

"Aww, fine." the light voice pouted easing the blade off Daichi's neck, but keeping it still there

"We're here to offer a proposal to you Daimyo-sama." the dark voice said neutrally

"A-An o-offer?" Daichi asked nervously

"That's right little piggy. Choose wisely because the winning prize is...your life!" the high pitched voice said like an announcer to some event

"P-Please, I-I'll do anything!" Daichi said desperately

"Well then listen up, because here we go little piggy!" the high pitched voice squealed in joy piercing Daichi's ears

"Our master has taken an interest in the person you're going to meet. You're going to deliver this to him." the dark voice said dropping an envelope on Daichi's lap

"This has our master's proposal to him. Deliver it to him, but do not say where you got it from. You are only allowed to this pass prhase to him." the dark voice said with authority

"A fellow scientist wishes to aid you in your research." the dark voice said clearly in a manner that he did not want to repeat himself

"Now do as we have instructed of you once we leave." the dark voice said with authority

"Or else you're gonna die." the high pitched voice sang evilly like a lullaby playing with Daichi's cheek with its free hand

"I-I'll d-do it I swear!" Daichi promised fearfully

"Good, we thank you for your cooperation Daimyo-sama." the dark voice said

"Bye bye little piggy go to sleep now ok?" the high pitched voice said as it knocked out Daichi with a neck chop before kneeling down on his body

"Let's go Lord Kagaku-sama is awaiting our results." the dark voice said impatiently

"I'm coming, I'm coming. Let me just finish our insurance." the high pitched voice said as it was writing a seal on Daichi's lower neck

"Very well, make it quick." the dark voice said annoyed

"Already done." the high pitched voice said clapping it's hands together

"Then let's leave." the dark voice said annoyingly

"Right-O. Let's leave this Popsicle stand!" the high pitched voice said exctidely

"I believe it's Let's blow thispopsicle stand." the dark calm voice replied

"Oh come on! I thought I had that one." the high pitched voice said in annoyance

"Clearly you need to work on your memory skills, even if you waste most of your time watching that ridiculous glass screen all the time."

"It's called a t.v!" the high pitched voice retorted annoyed getting in the other's face

"It doesn't matter now, I only tolerate it's presence because Kagaku-sama built it, and brought it specifically for you. Though, I will admit the knowledge that device possesses is amazing beyond belief." the dark voice said in mild amazement

"Exactly what you expect from Kagaku-sama." the high pitched voice said smugly

"You have no right to say that, always using it for your own entertainment. It's disgraceful beyond belief." the dark calm voice retorted in disgust

"Oh you. You sure know how to make a girl weak in the knees." the high pitched voice said snidely while the dark voice merely snorted

"Do you honestly consider yourself a woman?" the dark voice said

"I don't know you tell me." the high pitched voice joked as it swayed it's hips as its companion merely rolled his eyes.

"Let's go." the dark voice ordered

"Okey-dokey." the high pitched voice said skipping away from the scene as they both disappeared in a poof of smoke

---

Meanwhile with Kitsune A.K.A Shintaro

Walking calmly yet cautious of his surroundings Kitsune was walking through the city street with through the hideout rumored to hold the Fuma Clan. They weren't well maintained streets, in fact they looked like they came fresh out of a war zone with barely manageable repairs covering the roof. Kitsune observed the terrible conditions the buildings were in, and even the eyes that were peeking at him through some of the boarded windows of the buildings.

Ignoring them Kitsune continued to walk through the streets until he smelled a mass collection of bodies in a building to his right at an intersection. Continuing to walk he was interrupted by two shinobi halting him from progressing.

"Hold it right there pal! Identify yourself or be killed on sight! You're surrounded so you have no choice in the matter." a young boy around 12 said holding a sword pointed at Kitsune

"Your form is off." Kitsune said annoyed much to the young man's surprise.

"Huh?" the boy said in confusion

"Your footwork is off causing you to be imbalanced making it easy to tip you over if I want, and your shoulders are stiff beyond belief. Do you even know how to handle a sword?" Kitsune asked tiredly pointing out the flaws in the boy stance

"Oh uh...like this?" the boy asked fixing himself as Kitsune merely nodded in approval

"You idiot! He's an unknown factor, and besides you should've figured that out on your own." a female ninja around the same age said annoyed

"Is this the state the Fuma are in? Oi vey, this is going to be a nightmare. What possible reason did Orochimaru have use for them?" Kitsune thought to himself

"I'm here to talk to your leader, nothing more nothing less." Kitsune said calmly

"Why should we trust you?" the young female asked accusingly

"Because I could kill the two of you right here right now." Kitsune said as two clones appeared behind them with kunai at their throats.

"But I prefer a more diplomatic approach. Now, may I go see your leader?" Kitsune asked again

"D-Do you think w-we'll give in? T-This is nothing." the young man said failing to suppress his nervousness

"Obviously, I can tell in the tone of your voice that you mean business." Kitsune said sarcastically rolling his eyes

"If you truly wish to talk then release my foolish clansmen." a new voice said with authority

"H-Hanzaki-sama!" the two youths said in unison

"Very well then." Kitsune said releasing the clone jutsu freeing the two

"Hanzaki-san was it?" Kitsune asked politely as Hanzaki nodded

"What business do you have with me?" Hanzaki asked

"I'm here to ask you if you're interested in a proposition I'm offering." Kitsune said politely

"Proposition? What for?" Hanzaki asked

"Tell me, have you ever heard of The Fallen?"

---

Back with Scar

"Man, talk about a family meal." Scar chuckled as he burped licking the blood off his fingers

"At least I know my jaw strength is still close the same even if it's smaller. Now, where does that smell lead to?" Scar said walking to said smell

"Now that I concentrate a bit, I can definitely smell humans being here, and that smell of metal is that of chains. Plus there's a faint smell of...huh, never expected that. I think I'll check it out just to make sure my nose is acting up." Scar said as he got moving towards the scent.

After walking to enjoy the scenery of the forest as well as his freedom a bit more Scar noticed the scent he was following growing stronger.

"Hn, it's annoying that this body can't move that much on a full stomach, but I did go a bit overboard with those rabbits. At least it doesn't take as much to satisfy me as it did in my original form, but I'm going to need mobility if I need to fight." Scar said as he massaged his full belly

"Geez, if this smell is what I think it is I'm not sure S-I mean Kit is going to react to this." Scar said quickening his pace until he felt something in the pit of his stomach.

Grooooowwwwwwl

"Oh dear Kami, I forgot how sensitive these damn human bodies can be!" Scar said as he dove into the bushes

---

Meanwhile in Konoha

Back in Konoha things back home were...chaotic. Without Shintaro to keep things in line for the youths everyone was fighting trying to figure out what they should do now. The group consisted of those that Shintaro picked up along the way.

"So, are we or are we not joining Konoha?" Genyumaru asked

"Didn't we settle that already?" Guren asked annoyingly

"Do you really think that meeting was valid?" Kimimaro answered rhetorically

"Good point." Guren admitted

"Then what validate's this one?" Jugo asked

"This decision will impact us in a big way for the rest of our lives, and all of us save for the Uzumaki sisters who are with Kushina-san settling into their new house along with Ranmaru-kun who's with Ling-san at a park. Ranmaru-kun is too young to make a decision like this or is even capable of making a decision so what we choose will also impact his future." Haku said

"Besides, the Uzumaki siblings decided a long time ago to go wherever their clan goes, and I respect their decision for that matter. Anyways, whatever they do decide they'll stay by Ms. Uzumaki's side until their clan head says otherwise." Kimimaro explained

"So that takes care of them, but what about us? We're just kids ourselves, and even if we make a decision on our own the adults are just gonna pull the "we're too young to know what we want" card on us. They might even use some weird mind crap on us to prove were wrong." Suigetsu pointed out

"Reverse psychology." Haku pointed

"Know it all." Suigetsu snorted

"Then we'll just show them that they're wrong." Genyumaru said with conviction

"We won't back down to what we decide for us, and that means we'll just have to think hard on it." Kimimaro said

"So, we're back to square one then. Do we or do we not join Konoha?" Guren asked annoyingly

"It's not like Shintaro's gonna hate us for it, and half of the group is already joining Konoha's rank as genin." Fu said defensively

"Genin at their age? Aren't they a bit young for that?" Jugo asked confused

"Apparently they went through some test this morning with their clans, and say they're basically at genin level with Shou, Shusuke, and Sadao maybe at low chunin." Haku answered

"That lazy bastard managed to get to chunin level?" Suigetsu asked

"I said low Chunin, and that's only because of his intellect and strategic mind." Haku pointed

"I thought he said he wasn't going to affiliate with Konoha like Shinji. Did he end up joining instead?" Jugo asked confused

"Nah, from what I've heard apparently Sadao asked if the Nara clan would judge his skills as a one time favor. They agreed, and apparently he's fit to be chunnin if he puts effort but..." Guren said as everyone sighed knowing that the odds of Sadao showing effort

"Speaking of young, isn't Fu supposed to be at the academy with Hiromi?" Jugo asked

"The 3rd Hokage told me it'll take a few days for my citizenship papers to pass so I'm free to make myself comfortable, and blah blah blah basically they're sweet talking me into making sure I'm staying here since I told them I'd consider being a ninja rather than a citizen. So, I'm staying here, and the same will apply to all of us." Fu said annoyed

"They're already trying to capitalize on us? Jeez, talk about impatient." Suigetsu said

"Well, paperwork does take a while." Jugo defended

"Shintaro managed to get this place in a day." Fu retorted

"Well, he did kind of scare the crap out of the owners." Guren said with a mischievous smile

"And those old farts at the council didn't seem to like Shintaro's way of getting things done." Fu snickered

"Especially that crippled mummy dude with that X scar on his chin." Suigetsu said

"How'd he get that anyways?" Fu asked

"How should I know? I'm not his nurse, I'm just pissed that he thinks he can use us." Suigetsu snarled

"Well, I'm still pissed Shintaro didn't take me with him." Genyumaru grumbled

"That came out of nowhere, but I can see why you're upset." Haku said

"Dude, you're not the most subtle of individuals, and besides I'm sure he's doing something about your clan." Suigetsu said trying to console him

"I guess, but he could've at least told me what he's planning to do." Genyumaru sighed

"Don't you trust him?" Fu asked

"I've barely known the guy for a few months, and our first encounter wasn't the friendliest." Genyumaru replied

"You did bite a 5 year old until she dropped." Guren said cynically

"She asked me too!" Genyumaru protested

"Sure, whatever makes you feel better." Guren said snidely

"Was there a reason why we're all here again?" Jugo asked

"Yes Jugo, we're trying to figure out whether or not to become part of Konoha." Kimimaro answered

"Well, I still want to revive the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, and be their captain like big bro. Problem is the swords belong to Kiri, and I'm sure if I'm part of Konoha, Kiri won't like it if their trademark village treasures are in another village not that I care." Suigetsu said bored

"Speaking of treasure's from another village, I heard that Taki hunter nin were here yesterday looking for Fu." Guren said seriously

"What seriously? Fu, are you ok?" Kimimaro asked worriedly

"I'm fine, I'm fine. Shintaro made sure to kick their butts into the ground once they tried something." Fu snickered

"Figured as much. So, what happened? Obviously you didn't go back to Taki, and unless he killed them off they had to leave for one reason or another." Guren said curiously

"Shintaro basically scared the hell out of Shibuki as well as the "hunter nin" into making a deal that Konoha basically bought me. Apparently I'm worth 8,500,000 to Takigakure, but I think he did that just to screw them over both Taki and Konoha." Fu said wondering what Shintaro had in mind

"Yeah, he doesn't seem the type to sell you to another village." Guren said unconvinced

"I think he did it just to satisfy both villages without doing anything for them. We could easily leave Konoha pissing them off for spending all that money, and maybe even go to Iwa pissing them off even more." Suigetsu said with a chuckle

"I don't mind moving to another ninja village, save Kiri, if Konoha proves dangerous, but I would appreciate us not having to camp out in the middle of the woods for weeks straight. I hate to say that I was starting to get used to it, and even starting to miss it a little." Haku said nostalgically

"Ugh, don't remind me. Those nights in the woods messed up my back to no end, and all of the bugs that kept crawling on me? 'Shiver' Makes me shutter just thinking about it." Guren said uncomfortable

"I liked our nights around the campfire, it was fun." Jugo said in defense

"That's because you eat, breathe, and ooze nature buddy. Also not all of us have a giant sturdy body like yours dude." Suigetsu countered

"Anyways, back to where we started do we have to worry about Taki hunter nin going after Fu?" Kimimaro asked annoyed

"No...at least not now anyways. Takigakure likes to thinks its a strong village despite it not having power, like a dog that's all bark with a bite that'll hardly do anything. Although, I'm still not sure if those old farts back at Taki will accept Shibuki's decision." Fu growled

"Yeah, and if they don't they have all of us to go through if they want to take you back." Genyumaru said cracking his knuckles with various agreements from the rest of the group

"Thanks you guys." Fu said gratefully

"You mean Shintaro will once he's done blasting through those jerks." Suigetsu chuckled with a sly smile

"Right, if he found out Taki still wanted me back, and sent ninjas after me I'm sure they'll regret it." Fu snickered

"Regret it? Shintaro will make sure himself that they'll flat out apologize for making a dumbass decision like that." Guren said with sly smile

"He's the strongest guy I know yet I know nothing about his abilities except that he kicked my ass with taijutsu alone." Genyumaru said annoyed

"Well, he did handle most of the bounties, and bandit clearing missions on his own. Remember that time we picked up Ranmaru-kun?" Jugo said in remembrance

"No, I haven't heard this. Why what happened?" Genyumaru answered curiously

"Oh right, you weren't there." Jugo said

"Well, some rogue Kiri nin turned mercenaries were causing trouble for the villages around the one Ranmaru was in. Shintaro said he'd handle it in exchange for room and board as well as guardianship for Ranmaru. None of us knew why only that Shintaro insisted he come with us, but I'm glad we brought him in the first place." Jugo explained

"Ditto, though I could do without the staring he does all the time." Guren said uneasy

"Yeah, cute as he is he it's still a bit creepy the way he stares at someone for a long period of time." Fu said creeped out

"Anyways, we caught word that they were attacking another village with Shintaro following them. So after about…5 maybe 6 hours later Shintaro came back exhausted with swords on his back, and Kiri masks in his right hand, and a bag of…you know in the other one." Jugo said uneasy causing Genyumaru to shiver a bit

"Yeah, and then two weeks later he had to leave for Kiri so that he'd get paid for their bounties. How much was that by the way?" Guren asked said

"I forget, but from what Shintaro said they'd screwed him over giving him a third of what they owed him." Fu said

"Probably because of the bloodline hunt." Genyumaru said bitterly as everyone grew silent

"Way to kill the mood." Fu sighed

"Sorry, but at least of what I've heard he tricked them in return keeping those Kiba blades or whatever they're called along with the proper amount of cash they owed him." Genyumaru said uninterested

"Hey, if anyone's getting those hands on those blades first it's me…as soon as I master how to handle a sword in the first place." Suigetsu said quietly

"Getting off topic, or back to topic I should say. What are we going to do in regards of Konoha?" Kimimaro asked

"I don't know, I mean think about it. If we all join Konoha what about our clans? I mean Konoha currently already has the Aburame, Inuzuka, Yamanaka, Nara, Akimichi, Hyuuga, Uchiha, and the Sarutobi clan. Then there's the not so well known clans or those fallen from grace are the Senju, the Kurama, the Shimura, and the Kohaku clan near the border." Guren said counting the clans on her hand

"I mean besides the 10, or 11 how you look at, clans Konoha has will they be even able to handle all of us? I mean the Senju are near extinction besides that Sannin Tsunade, from what I've of this Kurama clan they're not that powerful anymore, the Uzumaki aren't technically part of Konoha. Well I guess they never were just allied until they were destroyed, and if they come back here that's another clan to worry about unless they want to be so who knows about them, but the rest of the clans are just fine." Guren said in amazement realizing the power Konoha has

"Where'd you learn all of that?" Fu asked curiously

"I'm a gossip girl, anything I want to know about I find out. If we're going to stay here I want to know as much as I can before I make a decision." Guren said with pride

"That's very smart of you Guren-chan." Haku commented with a smile while Guren blushed a bit while Suigetsu merely snorted

"Kiss-ass-YIKES!" Suigetsu said as 3 Ice Senbon needles landed just next to his head

"I'm sorry, was there something you want to say?" Haku asked calmly with a smile with an eeire aura around him as Suigetsu merely nodded no as all the other kids either snickered or sighed at the scene

"Those two'll never change." Fu mumbled

"Still, if were just counting the currently powerful/more well known clans then that's 8 clans for this village, 8 clans, and none of them are pushovers in the slightest." Genyumaru said seriously

"Now, if we settled here there would be my Yama clan, Guren's Kessho clan, Suigetu's Hozuki clan, Kimimaro's Kaguya clan, you get what I'm saying? That's 3 more clan's alone not including the rest of us. If we add all the clans including the one's I didn't mention that would be a total of let's see here…14. 14 fucking clans!" Genyumaru said surprising himself as it dawned on the others

"Don't forget Misaka-san's clan if she want to establish hers as well, so it's really 15 clans if she stays." Haku added

"Plus me as a jinchuuriki." Fu added

"So, 15 clan's and two jinchuuriki both high in power, that's still a lot by any village's standard." Guren said in disbelief

"Should Konoha have that much power?" Jugo asked in wonder

"It's not like they don't have any to begin with." Suigetsu said snidely

"So, should we butt out then?" Guren asked

"What do we do then for the rest of our lives?" Kimimaro asked

"I can give you a couple of suggestions." A new voice said startling everyone

"Shintaro?" everyone said confused

"When'd you get back?" Fu asked

"Never mind that did you find anything about my clan?" Genyumaru asked urgently

"Sorry, but I'm just a clone left by the original." The clone Shintaro apologized much to Genyumaru's disappointment

"Oh." He simply replied sullen

"But don't think I've forgotten about your clan Genyumaru. In fact that's one of my main objectives during the next few days I'm over there, but don't expect anything solid. However, if I do find something I'll be sure to contact you immediately." The clone said in reassurance

"That's…all I can ask for really, but thanks." Genyumaru sighed in acceptance

"No problem, the reason I'm here however is to talk about the problem you all discussed."

"Really, you have an idea on what we should do?" Guren asked

"Yes, though this is solely up to you guys. It won't impact your lives in a large way if you don't want to accept my proposition. I won't hold any grudges, think less of you in any negative way, or forbid my services to you. Do you guys understand?" The clone clarified seriously

"Sure? I would hope not." Guren said lightly chuckling in a nervous fashion

"What do you have in mind Shintaro-san?" Haku asked

"Simply put, do you guys want to join The Fallen?" Shintaro asked the group who were confused at first, but were shocked to say the least.

"Before you say anything about why I didn't ask you guys earlier yesterday during the meeting I have my reasons. I'm sure you've already thought of the possibility of settling down, and rebuilding/establishing your clans here. Am I wrong?" the clone asked the group with those who have clans nodded yes

"Then I'm sure you're aware of the firepower you'll be adding to Konoha." The clone added neutrally

"Yeah, it's crazy when you think about it." Genyumaru sighed

"So, I have an idea or more appropriate an experiment I want to test out."

"Experiment?" Jugo asked fearfully

"Calm down Jugo. It's sort of an experiment, as you all know there are some more…eager to accept new clans in Konoha. They didn't show it yesterday, but I'm sure on the inside they were jumping up and down like kids that got new toys to play with." The clone said annoyed

"However, a thought crossed my mind when they didn't flat out ask out front that you join Konoha to establish your clan's here. They want to appear friendly to you, they act like they don't want you, they want you to think you have a choice in the matter. They'll even go so far as to use underhanded ways to get you to join if they don't get their way." The clone said as the group got dirty looks on their faces

"Hold up, I'm not saying that every person there has that sort of mindset, but keep that in mind that there are people like that here. One of the more…aggressive ones is Danzo Shimura or more commonly known as the War Hawk." The clone said with mild hatred holding it in

"Now, this is important. If he comes up to you, and asks you about joining Konoha, I want you to politely refuse or tell him you'll think about it." The clone said with absolute seriousness as the kids nodded in understanding

"He's known for doing the dirty work for Konoha, always working in the shadows to get what he wants doing things like killing, lying, and deceiving his way to get to the top. Needless to say he's a bad omen you need to avoid along with those he associate's with. Understand?" the clone asked receiving nods from everyone present

"Shintaro-san, if I may. What does this have to do with us joining The Fallen?" Kimimaro asked

"That's the beauty of it. If Konoha finds out that it's potential added clan firepower joined an organization that they want little to nothing to do with, and just so happen to allow you to join Konoha's rank, and offer you a place to rebuild your clans on their grounds…" Shintaro said letting the gears in the children's head turn

"Then that proves how desperate they are to have us stay in Konoha rather than move on to another village in the future." Haku finished

"Exactly. If you join The Fallen, I could care less if you guys want to join Kumo, Iwa, Suna, or even some of the small villages or no village at all. As long as you guys are happy with where you are, and what you're doing then I'll be happy as well. You want to help out a village great, you want to leave The Fallen if it doesn't work out that's fine, you want to join Konoha and rebuild your clan here, then I'll support you as best I can." The clone said happily

"The point is, whatever you choose will no doubt both open and close doors of opportunities for you now, and in the future. I can't guarantee that I have or can give you everything you want, I don't have the financial resources as of one of 5 Great Nations, I don't know everything so I can't offer you the knowledge, training, or anything else you might ask of me. However, I will do my best to give you what you need to mature into fine shinobi, if that's what you want to do, that can be feared/respected throughout the 5 Great Nations."

"It'll be hard no doubt, and maybe you're better off joining Konoha since they have a better foundation for you to stand on. Remember, this is all on you, you make the decision on your own. You don't have to give me an answer now, but make sure you think about it." The clone finished as he left everyone think on what they want to do in silence for the next 10 minutes before Guren spoke first.

"You want us, kids that are not even of age to be genin, to join an infamous renegade group of powerful ninjas to stop a war that'll happen due to a gut feeling you had? Then participate in said war, all the while being part of an organization that said infamous renegade group of powerful ninjas are a part of while practically everyone in the whole world knows?" Guren asked slowly

"That about sums it up. So, you guys want to join?" the clone said casually

"Hell yeah I do!" Suigetsu said excitedly jumping for joy

"If I join The Fallen, then I'm sure there are some of them know a bit about swordsmanship. I'll train under them, and then hunt down the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist. Then I'll restore the Hozuki Clan while also naming myself the greatest swordsman in the world!" Suigetsu explained with pride

"Ok, that's one. Anyone else?" Shintaro asked

"Well, I'm in." Genyumaru said

"It's like Ling said at the meeting Shusuke had us to go, why not become the world's youngest bounty hunters? I've heard of The Fallen before from my old man, and besides everything else they're known for also being excellent trackers. If possible I'd like the help of them to find members of my clan if that's ok with you Shintaro." Genyumaru asked

"Sure, I'd be happy to. Is that it?" the clone asked looking around the group

"You can count us three as well." Haku said pointing to Jugo and Kimimaro

"When you found me I was alone, and scared almost at the brink of death. Then you found me, and brought me back to health taking me with you being my friend. A debt I can never repay until now, I wish to join you in your quest to end a potential war. I shall serve you until the day I die." Haku said bowing his head

"The same goes for me, had you not found me I would surely be dead either from exhaustion or from the hands of a Mist Ninja. You didn't fear me despite my heritage, taught me how to value my own life, and how to think for myself. I'd be honored to join you if you'll allow me." Kimimaro said humbly

"It's the same with me so I'll just keep it short. If you didn't find me I'd still be scared of myself hiding in a cave alone for the rest of my life. I'm sure in time I'll learn to control my...problems, but if you'll let me I'd like to join you as well." Jugo said shyly

"Thanks you guys I appreciate it. Anyone else?" the clone asked again

"Ditto, I want in because I'll be famous! Plus, I get to go around the world...without having to worry about my safety anyways. I'll be able to rub in Kumo's arrogant face that the Kessho clan is still kicking!" Guren said with enthusiasm

"Alright, not the noblest of motivations, but a motivation nonetheless. Anyone else?"

"Me too, me too!" Fu said

"Uh Fu, you do realize what you're getting into right?" the clone asked for confirmation

"Yeah, and it sounds awesome!" Fu said excitedly as the clone sighed patiently

"Fu, you do realize that everyone before has had at least a motive for doing so, and you haven't right?" the clone asked unconvinced of Fu's reason

"Really?" Fu asked confused

"Yes, and besides that war is not to be taken lightly." Shintaro said with an absolute serious tone intimidating Fu

"A-Are you saying you don't want me then?" Fu said nervously

"I didn't say that, I'm saying is that as young as Suigetsu is he at least has a goal in mind, and is aware of what it takes to accomplish his goal. I just want you to know what you're getting into that's all, and at least start to think on what you want to do in the future. I'm sorry if I scared you, but this is a serious matter."

"Ok…hey Shintaro?" Fu asked meekly grabbing the clones attention

"Is it…I was just thinking…this is unrelated to The Fallen thing, but can I ask you something in private?" Fu asked nervously confusing the clone

"Sure, let's go to my room. You guys go about with your day, but when the original comes back we're starting up a new training schedule got it?" the clone asked to which everyone responded yes through nods or various one word answers.

"Just hang in there guys, just a little while longer. I'll keep searching for you until I know what happened." Genyumaru thought to himself as he clenched his fists

"Big bro, I'll surpass you in terms of swordsmanship, and be the best damn Ninja Swordsman to master all of the Seven Ninja Swords of the Mist to be their captain. And I'll be sure to pay back Kiri a hundred fold for their betrayal, especially Kisame. He's going to find out he missed a Hozuki." Suigetsu thought to himself with a cocky vengeful grin

"Damn, to think I was gonna murder an innocent mother for the sake of some creepy snake dude. Now, now I'm here with kids from parents of some of the most famous people in the world. No one recognized me, no one knew who I was, everyone ignored me, no one knew anything about me. Well, that'll change soon enough. Soon the whole world will my name, and maybe then that creepy snake dude Orochi-whatever will see I didn't need him in the first place." Guren thought to herself shivering at the memory of Orochimaru

"To think, we've made it to Konoha, after all that time evading Kiri hunter nin. Then watching out for more insane people hunting my friends, those precious to me. Shintaro-san, I will always be there for you just as you have for me. I don't care what it is, I'll serve you until the day I die." Haku thought to himself

"Shintaro-san, I can tell you're planning something big, I may not know what it is, but I don't care. I'll be with you with however long I live, and become of The Fallen if it helps you." Kimimaro thought to himself

"Shintaro-san, my friends, everyone. You all have had families to start with or friends to share your feelings with. Some of you have lost them in your time while I was alone from the start, no knowledge of my parents or family whatsoever other than the note left behind...kind of like Ranmaru-kun. You all changed that, changed my solitude, my fear of myself. I never want to hurt any of you, but each of you contribute to hold back the monster that I am."

"Kimimaro-san, Shintaro-san, you most of all contributed to hold back my cursed clan's ability. It's because of your seals Shintaro-san, and Kimimaro's power that first stopped me from my last rampage. Now, even when I am angered which is rare to begin with my power won't go out of control or control me. For that I will follow you anywhere." Jugo thought to himself

---

As everyone left to get through the day Fu, and the clone left the dining room now in Shintaro's room on his bed with the door closed.

"So Fu, what'd you want to talk about?" the clone asked curiously

"I was uh…you know I have no family to speak of or even their history." Fu said slowly with sadness in her tone

"Yes, I am aware of it. If we had the time I would've investigated your family records if there any to be found." the clone said trying to comfort the child

"Thank you, but it hardly matters now. I didn't mind having no last name when back in Taki when no one cared about me, but now…people do care about me. They don't automatically glare at me, and when they ask what my name is I'm getting tired of saying "I'm Fu, just Fu due to the whole no family thing." hiding behind a fake smile." Fu said frustratingly as the clone understood what Fu was getting at

"You want a surname then?" the clone asked for conformation as Fu nodded

"Yes, but…if you don't mind, and I know this is asking a lot but…" Fu said nervously of how the clone would react

"You want my surname." The clone finished as Fu slowly nodded as the clone sighed tiredly worrying Fu as she got up from the bed

"Y-You don't have to! I know it was a stupid idea to ask in the first place. Just forget I said anything, I'm gonna go hang out with-"

"Fu." the clone said sternly as he put a hand on Fu's shoulder keeping her from leaving

"You are aware what you're asking of me right? You're asking me to add my family name to a kid I met, and known for a few months when I already have a sister." The clone said neutrally

"I-I know." Fu replied

"Are you aware that I already have had both a younger twin brother, and sister?" the clone said keeping his neutral tone, but failed to keep his sadness hidden

"Yes." Fu said surprising the clone

"Who told you that? Don't worry, you're not in trouble nor is the one who told you so." the clone asked curiously

"H-Hiromi did, she told me about it when I asked how you're siblings since you have blue hair, and she's a blonde. She told me you adopted her, and then she told me about your...twin brother and younger sister." Fu said sadly with tears falling from her eyes

"Then you are also aware that they have passed away." the clone said neutrally

"Y-Yes." Fu muttered as the clone sighed again putting an arm around Fu's shoulder bringing her closer to him

"Fu, I was with Hiromi since her beginning, yet I was with you for a few months. I can understand Hiromi getting attached to me, but tell me why you? Kimimaro was the first one to help you when you were cornered by those idiots." the clone said with mild disgust at the mention of those who'd hit a child under any circumstances

"W-Well, Kimi-kun is different." Fu blushed

"Kimi-kun?" the clone asked teasingly as Fu realized her blunder

"I-It's just a nickname! That's it I swear! But I'm the only one that can call him that." Fu said blushing crimson red

"Uh huh." the clone thought with a smirk before turning a straight face

"We're getting off topic here." the clone said

"It's true that Kimi-kun was there at first, but you were there as well. You brought me out of that hellhole, and brought me into this family here. Yet, everyone here at least has or had a family that could define themselves, and I'm just…Fu. Just plain old Fu."

"So you thought if you had a surname that was famous like mine you'd have something to define you?" the clone asked

"No, that's not true at all…well, not now." Fu said softly yet frustrated until she snapped

"Shintaro you're the only one besides Kimi-kun who gave a damn about me in the beginning! You taught me right and wrong, how to defend myself, how to read and write, spell, even basic chakra control, you even took the time to help me with Choumei. That's more than anyone has ever done for me, it's because of you I don't have to steal food, hide in fear, be alone with no one to care about me. Now, now I can eat every day, be around people who care about me, friends that I care more than anything in the world. Yesterday, you told me yourself how worried you were when I got hit, fixed me up, and even lectured me on how dangerous I as acting like…like a big brother would." Fu said loudly before going quiet at the last part as the clone took this all calmly as he took a deep breath

"Fu." the clone said plainly as tears again began falling from her eyes again only harder

"I know it's stupid to think that you'd think the same way I did. Maybe, maybe I knew all along you don't feel that way about, but…"

"What makes you say that?" the clone said in a mild lecturing tone

"Huh?"

"Last time I checked, I'm the one who knows how I feel, are you psychic?" the clone asked casually

"No." Fu replied

"Then you wouldn't know how I truly feel about you." the clone chuckled rubbing his arm against Fu's body to his

"What do you mean?" Fu said hopeful rubbing her eyes

"That I already think of you as a little sister." the clone said with an eye smile

"R-Really?" Fu said shocked

"Fu, it's true that I lost siblings in the past, and having Hiromi doesn't mean I replaced my sister or my brother. No matter how much Hiromi tries to be like them she just can't not by a longshot, and the same applies to you. Hiromi is her own unique person, therefore a unique sister to me, and the same applies to you." the clone said poking Fu's forehead

"Fu…I'm not against you having my surname, but I'd also recommend that you find your own surname." the clone said in a big brother tone much to Fu's disappointment

"Why? I'll just be nobody again. I don't want to use your name solely for fame, but being a Senpu would give me something to work up to." Fu countered

"That's why I think your own surname would benefit you more." the clone pressed

"How?" Fu grumbled

"Well, whatever you choose you'll no doubt be stuck with for the rest of your life unless you marry someone." the clone said with patience

"Yeah." Fu said dreamily before realizing something

"But, that means it has to be someone who knows about my secret. Not many want to marry a jinchuuriki like me." Fu said in a depressed tone

"Oh? I can think of a few who managed such a feat." the clone said

"Who? Who in their right mind would do such a thing? Don't most people hate jinchuuriki?" Fu said confusingly as the clone sadly nodded

"Well, that is true, and it shouldn't be that way considering what they do, and the burden you carry. However, as secret as they like it to be there is one particular couple, and a famous one at that who married in secret." the clone said in a hopeful tone

"Really? Who?" Fu said in wonder

"You remember the meeting yesterday?"

"Yeah?"

"Do you remember Ms. Uzumaki, and how she ranted to those fools at the council at the way they treated her son?"

"Yeah, she was scary, but also pretty awesome too the way she didn't take crap from those dummies. Why?"

"I'm guessing you weren't paying attention much in the meeting then."

"Uh..."

"Because if you were you would've learned that Ms. Uzumaki was the previous Jinchuuriki for the Kyuubi."

"Wait what? She was? But isn't Naruto..."

"So, you know do about Naruto's secret. I figured as much when we met with the Hokage yesterday the first time, and I hope you keep that a secret. You may know about it, and you know what it's like to be one but let Naruto find out later when he's capable of handling it."

"Ok, but isn't it wrong to keep this sort of secret from him? I feel kind of bad now since I told him I'll tell him about it later." Fu said with guilt

"Don't worry about it, you only meant to help is all if only to get him to understand why they hate him. If he comes to you about it tell him I said that you can't tell him about it. If he asks why tell him that I will tell him about it."

"Ok. So, Ms. Uzumaki was married big deal, it was probably someone who ordered to keep her happy." Fu said unconvinced

"Oh? I'm sure Minato Namikaze would disagree." the clone said suggestively

"Minato Namikaze? Isn't he the 4th..."

"Hokage?" the two said in unison

"Yeah, what about...wait you mean?"

"Yup."

"No way!"

" Oh, yes way."

"But isn't also the Namikaze clan leader?"

"Yup."

"But how?"

"That is something you're going to have to ask Ms. Uzumaki yourself, but now you see that there is hope for you Fu in the romantic sense." the clone teased

"Well, that still doesn't mean I can have my own surname." Fu pouted

"Well, let's say you're Fu…Fu Nanabi." the clone said in fake wonder

"Really?" Fu said annoyingly with an 'Are you serious?' look

"Bear with me, this just an example." the clone said jokingly

"Ok." Fu sighed

"Thank you, now let's say 20 years from now you become a famous ninja. Fu Nanabi, S-Rank Kunoichi feared throughout the world, a jinchuuriki that others could look up to, someone for regular people to look up to, someone to watch out for, the Fu Nanabi." the clone said in wonder as Fu's eyes widen as did her smile

"That sounds so cool." Fu said with a grin

"Doesn't it? Now, if you become a Senpu that's fine too, but people will know that you're adopted. They'll say things like "Oh she just wormed her way in" or "She's not a real Senpu" or "Just another Senpu" to bring you down." the clone said in a warning tone

"Oh…I didn't think of that." Fu said with her head down

"However, they'll also say "Hey, check it out Fu Senpu!" or "A Senpu here?" or they might say "Hey, that's Fu Senpu the younger sister to Shintaro Senpu." Get the idea?" the clone said in a light tone

"Yeah, that does sound nice." Fu said

"There are good, and bad things to becoming a Senpu while having your own surname has its own ups and downs as well. Let me ask you something Fu. Which would you rather have? Being part of a famous family legacy to live up to, or start your own legacy from the ground up with your name?" the clone asked sagely leaving Fu stumped without an answer

"Uh…"

"Think about it, you can answer me when I come back because I want you to think about it, but Fu." The clone said sternly

"Yes, Shintaro?" Fu replied

"No matter what you choose I'll still treat you like I do now…as a sister." the clone said in a big brother tone that he often uses with Hiromi bringing her into a hug

"Shintaro." Fu said crying

"It's like you said, I brought you into this family, and you're someone I want to protect, raise, and even lecture as you go through life. Got it?" the clone said releasing the hug to look into Fu's bright teary sunset eyes

"Got it." Fu said wiping her eyes

"Atta girl." the clone said ruffling Fu's hair

"Now before I go there's something I want to ask you." the clone said getting up from the bed

"What is it Shintaro?" the green haired girl

"Since I'll be gone for a few days you know how Hiromi gets sometimes." the clone said in a knowing tone

"Oh, yeah she freaks out if you're gone for too long. You want me to keep an eye out for her?" Fu asked

"Yes please, Hiromi needs to realize I can't be here 24/7 for her as much as I want to, but she also needs to know she has friends she can rely on. Like you Fu."

"Gotcha! I won't let you down Shintaro, I'll do my best!"

"That's all I can ask of you. Ok that's it, be sure to tell the other's I'm gone. Goodbye Fu." The clone said as he poofed out of existence

"Goodbye…onii-chan." Fu said quietly to herself with a smile.

"It seems you've found a good group of friends to rely on Fu." Choumei told Fu in her mindscape

"Yeah, I'll never let them go because I'll be the one to protect them all, but I'm gonna need your help Choumei. Please?" Fu asked Choumei pleadingly

"It's like that Shintaro boy said, it's gonna be awhile until you can handle my power, but I hated being in Taki so yeah I'll help you when I can. Don't expect freebies left and right from me though." Choumei told Fu

"Don't worry, I wouldn't have it any other way. I like a challenge, and the harder it is the more rewarding it'll be when I beat it so bring it on!" Fu replied to Choumei with pride as she walked out of Shintaro room.

---

Meanwhile with Kitsune

"That is my offer to you Hanzaki-san, feel free to either accept or deny it. All I ask is that you think about it, I will not hold any grudges toward you in the future, and will not deny you any help or services should you request such things." Kitsune said calmly

"That is a most generous proposal Kitsune-san, and I will certainly think about. However, forgive me if I may seem rude to you, but..."

"Feel free to speak comfortably Hanzaki-san, there's nothing I despise more than people sugarcoating things in the fear I may take offense to it. I prefer pure honesty, or brutal truths, but never a nice lie." Kitsune said calmly

"I see, then if I may be so prudent as to say that this offer is in the category of "To good to be true" in my opinion, but I can tell in your words that you're honest. It's just seems skeptical that a representative of The Fallen has come out of nowhere offering us aid to us Fuma when Kiri just so happens to be in a civil war." Hanzaki said skeptically

"You speculate that I'm only seeking you out to use your clan for war purposes, and not for the benefit for your clan." Kitsune said as Hankazi nodded

"It's true that Kiri is indeed in an civil war, but you forget Hanzaki-san The Fallen wish for peace between the 5 Great Nations also within the 5 Great Nations themselves. The Fallen operate in bases in each of the 5 Great Nations cooperating with each assigned Great Nation to have them settle their own problems. I am not going to drag you into a war that does not concern you or your clan, but I will ask your clan for their help should a war occur somewhere in this land. Of course I will only do so when I believe that when you are ready for such a thing, the last thing I want to do is to drag another generation into war. I'm sure you know or at least are aware how bad it can get when you send young untrained shinobi to the front lines." Kitsune said as Hanzaki nodded grimly

"It's as I said before Hanzaki-san, the choice is entirely up to you. I can offer your clan, your family a temporary safe refuge better than your...current quarters. I understand if you wish to stay here since this is where you stood your ground, but there is only so much I can do from afar in Konoha."

"Is that where this refuge of yours is?" Hanzaki asked suspiciously

"If you think I'm posing as a member of The Fallen as a ploy to recruit you into joining Konoha you are wrong Hanzaki-san...dead wrong." Kitsune said irritably glaring behind his mask

"Forgive me Kitsune-san, I did not mean to upset you."

"It's alright, I understand your concern. Rest assured I am not secretly a member of Konoha trying to discover, exploit, or abuse your clan's secrets for my own gain. I will personally see to it that Konoha will not take your clan's secrets, and if they do...they will most surely regret it." Kitsune said in a deadly tone

"I...appreciate the thought Kitsune-san."

"Forgive my tone, I just have had a...personal grievance against the 5 Great Nations especially Konoha."

"Yet, you're offering us refuge there?"

"I live by a code Hanzaki-san when it comes to my enemies. You don't kill your enemies under two conditions. The first is when you are sure they cannot be brought to a compromise, persuaded to stop, or understand their reasons for fighting in the first place." Kitsune said in a calm political manner

"And the second?" Hanzaki asked out of curiosity with a small hint of fear

"When you run their usefulness dry to the bone, and crush their goals, ambitions, agendas, or dreams into dust right in front of their eyes. When they truly understand that whatever they had planned has utterly failed, and no matter what they do can't change that fact...that's when you killed them. Though, I personally save that option for those that really...really piss me off. Konoha is...in the middle those two options leaning towards the second one." Kitsune said in a deadly venom tone filled with hatred as Kitsune radiated KI before calming himself due to the nervous state Hanzaki was currently in

"Be aware Hanzaki-san that you nor your clan are even near the starting point of that path. I am a man of great patience, tolerance, and integrity. However, if you knew anything of my heritage you'd hardly believe such a thing be possible in the slightest, not that I'll tell you such things of course considering I am also a man of privacy. I always prefer the option of talking things out rather than fighting not that I'm incapable of fighting things out of course." Kitsune said calmly as Hanzaki internally sighed in relief

"I see, I suppose I should thank you for assuring our position of your...hostility Kitsune-san." Hanzaki said trying to keep his composure

"Sorry, I've had a rough day getting here. Having to travel with bickering children takes a toll on ones mind, add the fact I'm dealing with a 5 year old on her first day of school is also putting my mind on edge." Kitsune said tiredly resting his head on a hand

"You have a daughter Kitsune-san?" Hanzaki asked

"Well, she's not technically my daughter, but she might as well be. I'm taking her in until her parents come back for her from...certain circumstances. She doesn't see me as her father rather her older brother. Well, I assume it's only natural you think I'm her parent given you don't know my age and all, but I'm sure I'm not fit to be a father." Kitsune said tiredly

"Well, you sound older than you presume you are Kitsune-san." Hanzaki pointed out

"Well, I suppose it's not a total impossibility to me to become a father at my age, but I'll settle for hyperactive, energetic, trouble making, tiresome children I watch over currently now." Kitsune sighed

"Are those not yours as well?" Hanzaki asked amused

"Yes, though it doesn't feel like it. I picked them up from various journeys across my travels, but they're mainly from Kirigakure." Kitsune said sadly

"Oh, how terrible. I suspect that they're, or some of them are bloodline descendants?" Hanzaki said in sympathy

"I won't confirm nor deny that. It's not that I don't trust you Hanzaki-san, I just heard that Kiri refugees have come to seek refuge here since it's far away, and peaceful. The last thing I need is a Kiri hunter nin getting information about one of their hunted prey being found in another village. Causing an international incident in the process, and I do find those annoying." Kitsune said cautiously

"That's understandable, I can see that you have a lot on your mind Kitsune-san." Hanzaki nodded in understanding

"That obvious huh? Well, can't blame you, but as much as I want to talk about it I must leave for I have other business to attend to. It's been a pleasure talking to you Hanzaki-san, I am staying in the Land of Rice Paddies for another 2 days in another village in an hotel east of here. If you need more time to think about it send me a message to Konoha were I am reluctantly taking up residence in." Kitsune said standing up extending his hand

"Very well then, I thank you for your time Kitsune-san, and I will think about your offer." Hanzaki said taking Kitsune's hand to shake his hand.

"That's all I can ask Hanzaki-san. Until we meet again. Oh, and be wary of whatever snakes may come across your garden." Kitsune said as he disappeared in a poof of smoke

"Snakes?" Hanzaki thought to himself in confusion

"To think, The Fallen have taken an interest in the Fuma clan. If they can restore our clan to glory of our clan then...no, I cannot make such a decision on my own not now anyways. I might as well let the rest know, there's no point in keeping this a secret." Hanzaki said as he began walking out of his private room until he heard a knock on his door

"Enter." Hanzaki said with authority

"Hanzaki-sama! Hanzaki-sama!" a young member of the Fuma clan said urgently

"What is it Arashi-kun?" Hanzaki asked

"There's another visitor here that requests your presence." Arashi said humbly kneeling down

"Another one? So soon after Kitsune-san as well? Did he come here as a warning for someone that may come after him?" Hanzaki thought carefully

"Who is it Arashi-kun?" Hanzaki asked seriously

"A boy about 13 or 14 years of age. He has grey-ash hair, is wearing a dark purple shirt with grey pants, and has black rimmed glasses. He claims to be a representative of someone named Orochimaru." Arashi stated

"The Snake genuis of the Legendary Sannin? Wait "Be wary of any snakes that come across your garden." is what Kitsune-san said before he left. Was he referring to the Legendary Sannin Orochimaru?" Hanzaki thought to himself

"What does he want?" Hanzaki asked

"A simple word is all." a calm voice said behind Arashi startling him

"Who gave you permission to come in here?" Hanzaki said with authority

"Forgive my intrusion Hanzaki-sama, but I could not leave him outside on his own." Arashi said with a "I don't trust this guy at all look" directed at Hanzaki meant for the visitor

"What is your name boy?" Hanzaki asked demanding an anwer

"You may call me Kabuto Hanzaki-sama." Kabuto said humbly with a bow

"Very well then...Kabuto. For what purpose do you have that require my presence?" Hanzaki asked carefully

"I have an offer my master Orochimaru-sama, perhaps you've heard of him?" Kabuto asked with a smile

"I have, and how he's become a missing-nin as well as his...reasons." Hanzaki said with disgust as Kabuto suddenly dawned a worried look before calming himself

"How does he know that? Konoha hasn't released any information regarding that! What do I do? What do I tell Orochimaru-sama? What if they released this information everywhere?! They'll truly make things harder for Orochimaru-sama unless they for...get. But first..." Kabuto thought to himself evily with his head down with a sadistic smile

"If I may ask, where did you receive such information Hanzaki-sama?" Kabuta asked calmly with a fake smile on his face

"It's none of your business. Why? Were you unaware of his crimes?" Hanzaki asked Kabuto inwardly shrugged dawning a disappointed smile

"Worth a shot. I'm sure Orochimaru-sama wouldn't mind getting rid of an information leak. After all, we can't have his reputation be run into the ground as well as giving him unwanted attention, not so soon after leaving the Akatsuki. Such a shame, Orochimaru-sama had plans for these Fuma dropouts, oh well."

"No, Hanzaki-sama I am fully aware of what my master has done. Those fools at Konohagakure could not see my master's brilliance in his attempts at immortality." Kabuto said with a smile

"Leave, and never come back boy." Hanzaki said with authority and disgust

"Very well, oh but before I leave I must ask you something. Are all Fuma clan members present in this area?" Kabuto asked curiously

"I see no reason to answer you, now leave before I use force." Hanzaki said dangerously

"Oh well, I guess it doesn't matter. I suppose whatever is left won't be much anyways." Kabuto said nonchalantly with an evil smile

---

Meanwhile Jiraiya and Kakashi

Currently the perverted Sannin and Anbu were tracking someone via rooftops that may lead them to Orochimaru much to their pleasant surprise, however that meant leaving the bountiful women surrounding much to their displeasure so they had mixed feelings at their current position.

"Captain of Anbu my ass. Shows what that kid Itachi knows. I'm sure without doubt he's having trouble finding anything at all." Kakashi thought in victory

"Although, I do wish I could've been hand-I mean gathering intelligence a bit longer." Kakashi thought to himself disappointingly

Apparently during their...investigation another customer came in buying women left, and right in celebration for a future successful business deal. It was a man who from just looking at him you could tell he was born smug with his name Masato tattooed in gold letters on his arm. Tall, tan skin, medium build with a white suit and black tie to go with his product drowned hair all suave looking like a complete dick. He went on, and on about how this job will have his pockets lined up with cash for the rest of his life all because of some "special cargo" he was dragging all the way from the Land of Earth.

After spending some time in there the man decided to leave with a smile on his face paying his...companions a large sum of money. Walking out of the brothel the man continued to walk down the streets until he came upon an alleyway with two thugs that appeared to be waiting for him. Wanting to see what this man had to offer Jiraiya, and Kakashi decided to lay low to inspect what exactly what Masato was delivering to this Snake.

---

5:00 p.m

After coming back to the agreed time Jiraiya, Kakashi, and Itachi came back to the hotel looking for the room that Shintaro and his friends rented for the next few days. Knocking their secret knock Shintaro knew it was them, and told them the door was open. Opening the door Jiraiya found Anko was still asleep on the bed, the three children playing poker, and Shintaro was out of his "Kit/Kitsune" outfit now changed back into his childlike form wearing his usual attire.

"Aaand read'em and weep! I am supposed to say that when I win right?" Regashi said unsure of herself as she laid down her cards to be straight

"Damn it! I just know you're cheating bug bitch!" Akihiko said frustratingly throwing his cards

"A straight huh? Not bad for your first try, not bad at all. However, this is the appropriate time to use that phrase, and this is how you say it." Shintaro said as he took a deep breath

"READ'EM AND WEEP SUCKERS! HAHAHAHAHAHA" Shintaro laughed cockily throwing down his cards revealing them to be a royal flush

"Damn it! You're cheating too!" Akihiko yelled frustratingly pointing an accusatory finger at him

"What me? It's all in the luck man. Don't hate the player hate the game." Shintaro said innocently holding his hands up in defense

"Whatever, set the cards up again! I am not losing this time!" Akihiko said throwing his cards to Shintaro

"Whatever you say, must be a glutton for punishment." Shintaro said nonchalantly as he gathered all the cards and began shuffling them

"You kids having fun?" Jiraiya asked the trio walking with the rest until Kakashi he noticed Akihiko's hands were covered in dry blood

"You guys didn't do anything out of hand did you?" Kakashi asked while Shintaro and Regashi shared a nod before turning their gazes to Akihiko who merely grumbled

"Yeah, well not all of us. Some of us are going to go hungry for a while." Shintaro said glaring at Akihiko as well as Reigashi

"What? I got hungry all right, and I wanted a snack for later." Akihiko said defensively

"Bunnies are not made for snacks when we're going to have dinner tonight!" Regashi retorted

"Bunnies?" Kakashi asked not liking where this was going

"Shintaro had me scout the forest west of here, and I got hungry since I missed out on breakfast. So, to make up for a meal I lost I decided to fill myself with lunch via large family of rabbits living in a rabbit burrow I found, and you can figure out the rest." Akihiko explained boringly

"You ate bunnies…raw?" Itachi asked mildly disgusted

"Dude, that's just wrong." Kakashi said shaking head

"Which is why I confiscated his remaining "snacks" for the night at least until I can cook some real food. Until then, Reigashi is going to watch over your snack until I can find a proper home for it." Shintaro said pointing to a cage of two baby bunnies munching on a pile of carrots

"Considering how quicker it is to eat something raw to something cooked I don't really see the point, but I suppose you humans would make a fuss over this." Akihiko grumbled as he shrugged

"A fuss? You ate a load of defenseless bunnies! A fuss is the least you have to worry about us throwing!" Regashi snapped

"You're awfully defendant about these rodents bug bitch, I expected you to make this much noise if I ate some caterpillars or something, but not over some over-sized furry rats. What you like bunnies or something?" Akihiko said confused as Reigashi suddenly got flustered

"M-Me? Pfft as if! Like I would care what would happen to those puny, rotten...flea infested..." but Rei couldn't finish her thoughts as she had trouble keeping her composure as said "puny, rotten, flea infested" bunnies made a squeak noise that made Rei lose it

"Most adorable furry creatures on the planet!" Rei gushed as she went over to the cage with plastering her face against the cage with a goofy smile on her face as the other boys sweat dropped at the scene

"Uh huh." Shintaro thought to himself as Rei suddenly noticed the looks everyone was giving her

"Ahem! I mean uh-yeah, useless fleabags." Rei grunted with a mild blush on her face

"Yeah, so what'd you guys find?" Shintaro said trying to change the subject

"A lot of things, some good some bad, but I believe enough to work with to get the job done." Jiraiya said tiredly

"What about you guys?" Kakaashi asked

"I think we have a lead on where Orochimaru's lackey's may be hiding the kids." Shintaro said reassuringly

"Well that's good, and I see sleeping beauty still hasn't waken up." Jiraiya said pointing to a snoring/drooling Anko asleep on the bed.

"The rejuvenation seal I planted on her takes some time to completely take effect. Though it's been hours, she's still going to be like that for the rest of the day." Shintaro explained

"So, she's completely unconscious, and nothing can wake her up?" Itachi asked in clarification

"Well, there is a fail safe seal in case her life is in danger, and well..." Shintaro said as he raised a hand over Anko's breast only for her hand to grab it cracking his wrist causing mostly everyone to back off

"Gyah!" Shintaro said as he forced his hand away from the snake mistress grasp

"Her killer instinct is very strong so I don't think we have to worry about anyone making a move on her. Good thing I got rid of her weapons." Shintaro said as he popped his wrist into place

"I see." Jiraiya said calming himself when he just internally wet himself

"Well, I'm not going near her." Kakashi thought to himself

"Anyways, unless it wasn't made clear enough the bed's off limits." Shintaro said sarcastically

"Yeah, I'm think I'm going sit go over there." Jiraiya said pointing to a laid out futon while Kakashi decided to lay against a corner while Itachi merely sat next to Shintaro

"May I?" Itachi asked as Shintaro nodded yes

"So then, shall we get started then?" Jiraiya said as he took out a scroll

"Yes please, the more info we share the faster we get to finding Orochimaru." Shintaro said as everyone acknowledged what he said

Just as he was about to open it something was heard that startled everyone there.

"AAAAAAAHHH! Someone help!" a woman screamed at the top of her lungs causing everyone in the room to dash outside.

As they went outside they weren't prepared for the sight that beheld them.

It was also then that this event was being watched by two cloaked friends merely observing from the shadows of the rooftops. One figure was taller and wider than the other by about two feet, and the smaller figure was smiling sadistically snickering to itself.

"It looks like the fun is starting!" a high pitched distorted voice said in glee clapping its hands

"Remember why we're here." a dark calm voice said emotionlessly

"Oh, I know. I'm just looking forward too what happens next, and I can't wait to pay our little friend a visit once again, maybe this time I can break him completely. I wonder who I should kill this time though?" the twisted voice said licking it's lips

"Does it matter? We're here for one purpose." the dark voice said firmly

"I know, I know. Just think of this as a side benefit, and besides if we manage to capture you know who, Kagaku-sama will be happy as a fishy in the sea." the high pitched voice said joyfully

"I suppose, but that'll have to wait after we have finished our mission." the dark voice said sternly as the lower figure merely sighed

"You're no fun at all, but you have a point. Although, I do hope we get to kill some of those cuties in there, especially that Uchiha kid. He looks like he can show a lady a good time." the high pitched voice said disappointingly

"You can watch that child suffer in the meantime then along with those weak clansmen of hers." the dark voice said to stop it's companion distress

"Yes, it's so much fun to watch them break down at such a young age." the high pitched voice said evilly with a sadistic smile watching the suffering of a blood covered young girl traumatized by the mass murder of her friends, family, and clan.

She was being carried by her cousin both tired, and exhausted as well as the few other's that managed to escape. Her purple sweatshirt had tears in it, and was stained with dirt with blood spread out all over her shorts as well. She was clutching onto a cap tightly as it were her life itself, to distract the fact that blood was sprinkled over her pale face, and mixed in various places along in her long lush orange hair reflecting her brown eyes filled with terror.

This girl's name was Sasame Fuma, age 5, and one of the very few survivors of the event that would be called The Fuma Clan Massacre.