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

20. Minds Shake, Hearts Break, Gears Shift

It was two weeks after his encounter with Mirai, and things were starting to get a bit better for him, at least in comparison to what counted as a good day for him. The boy started to solidify his...partnership with Mirai, and she began to see the rumors were exaggerated about him. Rather, she saw that he used the rumors to his advantage. He wasn't the kindest person in the world she could see that, but she found from her mother that was the case because of the constant suffering her village had inflicted on him.

After that Mirai began to question the integrity of her village, the place her father praised, the place she was raised, her home. While it was true her father loved this village, he was mainly talking of when it wasn't ruled by 5th Hokage Danzo Shimura. That was when Konoha was ruled with a ruler who believed in peace, not war. Even she could see the corrupt leadership of her generation of the Uchiha clan being the leading power of Konoha.

If Marai had to be honest with herself, she never saw what her father loved about this place. She never met her father so from the beginning this place was always a cold, colorless, unforgiving place filled with cruel people save for her mother, and her deceased aunt. Who apparently was the boy's teacher/guardian for a certain number of years before her untimely death.

Mirai was heading toward the usual meeting spot, for a progress report on the situation on the preparations for the mission. Thankfully she did not have to worry about her mother dying from the knowledge she possessed due to the boy making an offer to the Hokage, but that meant the pressure was doubled for her to not utter a word about this to anyone.

Jumping from tree branch to tree branch Mirai stopped at the next one since that's where he stood waiting for her.

"Huh, you're late." the boy said not surprised

"Well sorry, some of us have responsibilities to their homes." Mirai said annoyed

"Don't we all." the boy responded

"Damn it, how stupid was that!? I'm such an insensitive jerk." Mirai thought mentally slapping herself

"Oh, uh what I meant was-"

"Forget it, doesn't matter now. Did you hear?" the boy said changing the subject

"About what?" Mirai asked

"The Stone Republic is at civil war...again." the boy said again not surprised at the outcome

"Another one? I thought they finally settled on an agreement." Mirai said in disappointment

"Apparently not, not according to the loyalists who assassinated Akatsuchi. That Kurotsuchi woman seemed distraught, but Sensei taught me how to see through the lies a woman's face can tell." the boy said both confidently and sadly

"You mean Auntie?" Mirai said fondly

"Yeah..." the boy said quietly

"He really did care about her...probably more than I did."

"She seemed to enjoy it, training you I mean." Mirai said trying to lift his spirits

"Really? I couldn't tell from the sadistic laughter, and psychotic grins that she constantly had on her face." the boy said nostalgically

"She was always a little...extreme." Mirai said with a small smile

"That's putting it lightly." the boy said actually chuckling to himself

"So, what did you want to talk about?" Mirai said feeling slightly better

"We're going on a mission." the boy said turning to her

"What? Now?" Mirai said shocked

"Ideally, although I had hoped we left sooner, but better late than never I suppose." the boy said plainly walking up to her

"How come I wasn't aware of this?" Mirai said annoyed

"Because...it's personal." the boy said quietly surprising Mirai

"Personal? He's never said anything personal about himself other than what I had to figure on my own. Even that's little to nothing other than the fact he has a sister, had auntie as a sensei, and is the most hated person in here just because his village lost the war...for all that demon talk even I can tell it's an act. Maybe, I should help him out...what would dad do if he were here?"

"Where are we going or what's the point of this mission?" Mirai asked trying to get more information

"It's essential to when we leave this place, but more importantly to me anyways it's a chance to fix things...a chance for redemption." the boy said quietly

"Redemption?" Mirai repeated

"You wouldn't understand, but...look, are you going to help me or not? I only asked because I'm getting paid big money for this. You've been complaining about how expensive things are, and it gets annoying during our meetings." the boy said agitated

"But you aren't a ninja, why are you getting paid for a mission?" Mirai asked suspiciously

"Just answer the question." the boy said looking at Mirai with his blood red eyes

"I will, when you at least answer one of mine. For instance, why ask me about this?" Mirai said not backing down

"Fine. I'm not allowed to leave the village without an escort, and you're the only one I can tolerate without going crazy. There answered your question. So, are you coming or not?" the boy asked aggressively in a tone Mirai had gotten used to

"Alright, I'll go." Mirai sighed

"Good, we leave in 3 hours. Meet me by the south gate." the boy ordered

"Wait, what about your sister?" Mirai said concerned

"I already dropped her off at a friends place, one of the few people I trust. Enough chit chat, I'm leaving. Remember 3 hours, south gate." the boy said before flickering out of sight before Mirai had a chance to reply

"Just when I thought I was making progress. He's such a handful, might as well head back home. Mom's gonna want to hear about this." Mirai said shaking her head before turning around heading home back to her mother

---

Land of Rice Paddies

It was morning now, close to 7:00 and once again he was suffering the nightmares of the worst years of his life.

"Mariko-chan come on! We have to keep running!"

"We are gathered here today to remember the loss of one of our own."

"Don't you realize surrender is our only choice of survival here!?"

"Where are you going now?"

"OUT!"

"What about our child!?"

"Stop looking at me, stop looking at me!..."

"I can't protect...anyone..."

"Everyone's dead...mother, father...everyone..."

"Alone...so alone..."

"What should I do...what should I do..."

"One thing...there's only...one thing...I'm good for..."

"kill...Kill...KILL...THEM..."

"AAALLLLLL!" Shintaro shouted in a rage lunging to the wall opposite of him promptly freaking out his sleeping companions from the punch he threw blowing the wall to pieces.

"What the hell?" Akihiko said

"Are we under attack?" Rei said getting into a defensive position

"What happened here?" Jiraiya said opening the door

"I heard a crash, is everyone all right?" Kakashi asked following Jiraiya

Still breathing heavily, it took all of the shouting from everyone managed to snap Shintaro out of his fit.

"Shit. Gotta calm down." Shintaro thought to himself immediately

"It's alright, there's nothing wrong." Shintaro said pulling back his fist releasing his grip

"Nothing wrong? There's a hole in the wall! I think that counts as something wrong." Rei shouted pointed at the destroyed wall

"It's fine, I'll take responsibility. Just a bad dream is all." Shintaro said in assurance

"Bad dream?" everyone repeated to themselves as they looked at the result of said "bad dream"

"Note to self, never sleep near him again." Rei thought to herself

"So uh, you ok?" Kakashi asked nervously

"I'm fine, really I am. Just need some air is all. Let the owner know I'll pay for the damages." Shintaro said as he flickered out of sight.

"What was that noi-OOHHH MY KAMI!" an awfully surprised middle age portly woman screamed before fainting at the sight of what happened to her building

"Should we go after him?" Re asked somewhat concerned

"I'm sure he'll be fine. Besides, all trace of his scent just suddenly vanished, which is weird." Akihiko said

"You mean you can't smell him?" Rei asked for clarification

"That's what I just said dumbass." Aki responded annoyingly

"I was just asking!" Rei yelled

"Then pay attention the first time." Aki grumbled

"Ugh, screw this. I'm gonna scout the area, better than sitting here now we're awake, and I'm taking him with me." Rei said opening the cage of the frightened bunny

"The rodent?" Aki said in confusion

"Her name is Nibbles. And I'm taking her with me to keep me company?" Rei said snuggling Nibbles close to her face

"Nibbles?" Aki said now amused smirking at a blushing Rei

"Shut up, I figured since she's all alone because of you in a world she doesn't understand I would take care of her until she gets better." Rei said angrily pointing at Aki

"Uh huh, never figured a fur covered rodent would win over your heart bug bitch." Aki said rolling his eyes

"S-She didn't! I just sympathize with her that's all." Rei said defending herself

"Uh huh, I'm gonna stay here, and keep watch on her in case she wakes up. You do whatever, I'm gonna go back to sleep." Aki said kicking away some debris before lying on the floor again

"Lazy cat bastard." Rei muttered to herself as she jumped from the hole in the wall

"So...what do we do now Jiraiya-sama?" Kakashi asked uncertain of the situation

"I would say keep a low profile, but..." Jiraiya said looking at the mess knowing that was impossible

"...that isn't an option anymore. We're probably gonna have to move on to another location because of this. Now, I see why Shintaro would have preferred we sleep outdoors. I'll wait here until he comes back, find Itachi, and see if you two can find us another place to crash tonight." Jiraiya said carrying the owner back to the lobby

"Roger." Kakashi said disappearing in a poof of smoke

"What a mess. I can only hope things are better at home." Jiraiya thought to himself

---

Back in Konoha in Hiromi's room

Despite Shintaro's dark past he wasn't the only one who on a lesser basis had nightmares. Though they weren't of things that had happened, rather more of a running theme of things she hopes that doesn't come.

She was standing in the middle of nowhere, anything past 2 ft was barely visible to her. She was cold, shivering looking for something or someone to comfort her until she saw the back of her brother.

"Niichan?...Niichan?"

As if she didn't hear her Shintaro, or the image of Shintaro began walking forward leaving her behind.

"Niichan...Niichan!"

Yelling at him now she began to chase after him, but never able to catch up to him. No matter how much she ran she could never catch up to him constantly crying out to him.

"Niichan! It's me Hiromi, please stop!"

Still not listening, the image of her brother was still walking away ignoring her calls getting further away by the second leaving Hiromi behind. Constantly screaming at him now crying tears freely falling down her face. Running so much for what seemed like an eternity she tripped on her own legs falling flat on her face. Tired beyond belief she tried to get up with her weak, frail arms one of them reaching out to him.

"Niichan...please...stop."

Quietly pleading to him her brother actually stopped. Suddenly being filled with hope a small smile formed on her face thinking she had finally gotten to him. That is until he merely turned his head off the left a bit just enough for him to look directly in Hiromi's eyes, and spoke four words clearly that crushed her heart.

"Huh, guess it was nothing."

Those four words that came out of his mouth was all he said before turning ahead, and continued to walk off leaving Hiromi much to her horror behind.

"Niichan! Niichan wait it's me! It's me Hiromi! Your sister, please stop!"

No matter how much she cried he never heard her, walking away without another word eventually disappearing completely from her sight.

"No please, Niichan...please don't leave me. Don't leave me. Don't leave me. Don't leave me. Don't leave me!"

With that final cry she woke up from her slumber sweating and started to hyperventilate. Getting harder to breathe she looking to her left and right desperately to find a paper bag which thankfully she did, and started to breathe into it. After a few minutes of calming herself down and wiping her tears away she realized that no one else was in the room with her.

"That's right. I wanted to see if I can sleep on my own without Onee-san, and Ni...niichan. Niichan wouldn't leave me I know it. Just a bad dream, that's all it was a bad dream. Just a dream...just a dream." Hiromi repeated to herself

Looking at the clock, and realizing the time she decided to get changed out of her pajamas and into her school clothes. After changing into a yellow shirt, blue shorts combo with her red bow tied on her head she looked at herself in the bathroom mirror.

"Ok, ready to go. I wonder if Haku-san made breakfast yet." Hiromi said to herself as she left the room

Walking out of her room into the hallway Hiromi noticed a dead silence in the halls almost eerily soundless like a graveyard.

"Where is everyone? Maybe, they're eating breakfast." Hiromi said to herself as she thought about walking up the stairs looking for someone to talk to

"Maybe Fu and Suigetsu are still asleep. Should I wake them up? No, I should just eat some breakfast, and get some training in. Niichan should be back tomorrow, and I'll just have to wait until he comes back...Niichan." Hiromi said to herself sadly before shaking her head

"I'm sure everything'll be fine. Niichan will help someone, then he'll come back, and we'll be together again. We'll always be together...always." Hiromi said quietly heading towards the dining room

She didn't smell anything yet, so the idea of someone cooking breakfast was out the window. She entered the dining room looking around for someone in hopes of not being alone. Much to her dismay however, not only was the dining room empty, but the kitchen as well with a note left on the wall.

To Hiromi-chan if you wake up this early,

Went to the store to replenish supplies with Guren-chan, and Misaka-san. Ayano-san said she went to talk to Lady Tsunade for something. Sadao-san decided to hide somewhere in this building for his "perfect napping place" while Shinji-san is scoping out the rest of the territory for what's usable. Kimimaro-san and Jugo-san took Fu-chan, and Suigetsu out for training this morning to one of the abandoned buildings. I sent for Ms. Uzumaki so she should be here in a half hour, please don't worry, I'll be back as soon as I can.

Sincerely, Haku

"So I'm...alone then. All...alone." Hiromi said to herself starting to panic trying to calm herself down

"It's ok, Ms. Uzumaki is coming here. And she'll bring Naruto, Honoka-nee, and Karin with her so I won't be...alone. Maybe, maybe I could just wait with Kimimaro and the others until she gets-"

Groooooooowwwwwl

"Oh, but I'm so hungry." Hiromi whined holding her stomach

"Maybe I can find something to make a snack. Niichan taught me how to cook a bit, I just hope there's something to make." Hiromi groaned as he headed towards the kitchen

Walking to the kitchen she looked endlessly for some trace of food to hopefully make a meal out of. After searching nearly all the cabinets she had been able to only find 2 eggs from the fridge, a half empty bag of baking soda, a giant bag of flour, a gallon of milk, different types of various spices, 1 carrot among other vegetables, some ham, and two pounds of rice.

"Awww, I hate vegetables." Hiromi pouted looking at her other options laying on the counter

"Maybe, I can cook some eggs. No, Niichan told me to not to touch the stove. He thinks I'll burn himself if I do it myself, maybe he's right. There's nothing I can...wait! I remember Suigetsu and Fu talking to Naruto last night about hiding an instant ramen cup on top of the...fridge." Hiromi said looking to the right at the huge 7 nearly 8 ft. tall 5 ft. wide metallic fridge towering over her small body.

"Can I even reach up there?" Hiromi said uncertain of herself looking for a way to check on top of the fridge.

Just as she was about to give up a certain sound convinced her otherwise.

Groooooooooowwwwwwl

"Oh...darn it. I'm just gonna have to find a way up there." Hiromi said stomping her feet

Looking around Hiromi noticed a few boxes along with some pots spread out amongst the kitchen floor with some stools as well near the table in the center of the kitchen.

"Maybe I can put them on top of each other with the stools underneath them...but won't I fall? Maybe I can try the wall climbing jutsu Niichan taught me, but I can barely do it for a few seconds." Hiromi sighed to herself

"Ok, boxes, pots and stools it is." Hiromi said slumping her shoulders

Grabbing a stool setting it against the fridge Hiromi went around the room grabbing the various boxes layering them on top of each other until she couldn't reach the top anymore. Climbing on top of the table she put a stool next to it so that she could walk to the pile of boxes she created. Looking at the tall pile of boxes and pots she created, Hiromi was readying her knees for a jump at the top of the pile.

"Ok, just gotta do this right, and...jump!" Hiromi said as she lept off the table

"Got it!" Hiromi said barely landing on top of the swaying tower she created

Climbing to the point of standing on top of the rocketing tower of boxes barely able to get foothold on her rickety creation to get a view of the top of the fridge. Straining her eyes Hiromi managed to see that there was indeed a hidden instant cup of ramen unopened for anyone to grab. Reaching out her hand, Hiromi did her best to reach her prize only inches away from her fingers. Doing her best she lept slightly forward finally accomplishing to grab her desired breakfast causing her to dance to celebrate her minor victory.

"Yes! I got it! Who said I need any-woah!" this celebratory dance however was the final nail in the coffin to push over her stumbling pillar of boxes/pots to collapse

Time seemed to slow down for her, her body felt numb, yet her mind was going a million directions. One thing was clear to her she was feeling scared, hopeless, thinking that he would save her like he always does. He was always there for her, he always saved her, he always protects her. Because he was with her since the beginning, he was her family, her protector, her teacher, her Niichan. He'd save her...right?

"I'm falling...I'm falling! Someone...anyone...Niichan help!" Hiromi thought to herself

Falling for what seemed like an eternity crying endlessly in her head for her brother until a certain image played out in her head. It was the image she had in her dream, the image of her brother looking her in the eyes and saying those four soul crushing words to her.

"Huh, guess it was nothing."

"No, Niichan won't leave me. He won't. He'll save me I know it! He'll come for me! Niichan please, save me!" Hiromi cried out in her mind as tears now started to flow from her eyes her fear that no one would come for her growing stronger.

"Niichan please...save me." Hiromi thought to herself one last time

Still falling she decided to close her eyes and pray that her brother would come. It was then just as her hopes were all but gone she heard something before that same something grabbed her and pulled her close. Her ears were then pounded by the sound of metal crashing on the ground around her. She had felt this feeling before, they were arms around her.

Gentle, soft, comforting arms surrounding her frail body keeping it close to the plush chest that was the source of the arms. She felt this feeling before, the feeling of being protected, being safe, being loved, but something was...different. She couldn't stop shaking and she didn't know why. She was safe, she was protected, so why did this feel...wrong? Her answers were given in a most unexpected way.

"Hey, you alright?" a boy's voice said

"N-Niichan?" Hiromi asked

"Uh...no? It's me remember? Hey Akamaru, do you think she forgot about us?" The boy said chuckling while he heard an agreement in the form of a small bark

"Jeez Kiba, can you be anymore smug?" an older female voice said in annoyance

"K-Kiba?" Hiromi thought to herself looking behind her savior

There were two girls, both older than the two of them, and both of them had dogs at their side.

There was one one the left wearing a black hooded fur coat with grey pants, and a demonic clay mask over her face. She was tall, taller than her brother almost eye level to the other girl who was clearly older than her by a few years. Her hair was black, and wildly unkempt matching her vertically slit eyes. The dogs at her side were up to her knees, one was colored black as night, the other white as snow.

The other girl was wearing a pair of tan shorts with a tucked in white t-shirt covered , and two blue sandals with bandages tied on her legs going up to her knees. She had long dark brown hair arranged into a ponytail with two strands of her hair hanging in front of her face constantly swaying over the red fanged marks on her cheeks. Her canine partners were three ash colored wolf pups about the same size of Katsumi's companions.

"Give him a break Hana. Besides he moved faster than you did." another female voice said defending Kiba and teasing whoever she was talking to

"I didn't see you move Katsumi." the first voice teased back

"That's because he got here first Hana, or are you blind?" Katsumi replied

"So you're saying you're a slow poke then?" Hana said with a smirk on her face giving Katsumi a few tick marks

"Faster than you at least." Katsumi said grinning underneath her mask giving Hana a few tick marks of her own

The rivalry between the two even went to their canine companions who were growling intensely at each other

"Grrrrrrr."

"Grrrrrr."

"Easy guys." Katsumi said petting her comrades

"Haimaru stand down." Hana said sternly causing her companions to sit silently

"Wanna bet?" Hana said getting back to the conversation

"Ain't gonna be a bet, that's a promise." Katsumi chuckled stretching her legs

"Cocky b-ow!" Hana said

"That's enough you two. Kiba she alright?" a much older female voice said knocking the heads of both kids

"Yeah mum, but she won't stop shaking." Kiba said finally getting an opportunity

"That's because she nearly died you idiot." Hana said annoyed

"Not to mention she's kind of a scaredy cat without her brother." Katsumi mentioned

"You mean that Shintaro guy you and mom keep talking about?" Hana asked changing her mood

"Yup." Katsumi said nodding her head

"K-Katsumi? I-Is t-t-that you?" Hiromi said recognizing her voice

"Yup. We came by here for a visit, well that and to visit Hana's crush. Isn't that right?" Katsumi said with a suggestive look directed at Hana

"S-Shut up! I do not have a crush on him, I haven't even met the guy yet!" Hana defended with a blush on her face

"Hehehe, sure whatever-ow!" Katsumi grunted as her head was assaulted

"I said that's enough you two. You're alright kid?" Tsume asked concerned

"Y-Yes. Sniff T-Thank you." Hiromi said quietly

"Don't thank me, thank my idiotic son. He's the one who charged in here isn't that right?" Tsume said with a grin

"Mum." Kiba said

"Oh, I'm sorry. My brave, cool hero of a son saved you. Is that better?" Tsume joked rubbing her hand through his head

"Mum!" Kiba whined

"Y-You mean i-it wasn't N-Niichan w-who saved m-me?" Hiromi said disappointed going into a deep depression

"Sorry, just me." Kiba sighed

"O-Oh." Hiromi said in acceptance

"Oh crap." Katsumi said as she got a look at Hiromi

"What?" Hana said confused

"I don't think Shintaro's here, damn it." Katsumi cursed to herself

"Why is that a bad thing? I mean he's probably out somewhere doing stuff." Hana said not knowing what a big deal this is for the blonde child

"She wouldn't be acting like this if that was case much less be here on her own. He must be out of the village or something." Katsumi said thinking of where he could be

"Yeah, for about 2-3 days." Kiba mentioned off offhandedly

"What?" Katsumi said shocked

"Yeah, she said her brother is out on some mission out of the village since yesterday, and that he'll be gone for about 2-3 days. I tried to you guys yesterday, but you kept yelling over dinner. Why, is this a big deal or something?" Kiba said confused

"WHY? She worships that idiot of a brother, and if he's gone then she-"

"Niichan...Niichan you...left me." Hiromi said stoically as she went quiet

"What's wrong with her?" Tsume asked not liking this

"Mum is she ok?" Kiba said a little freaked out

"Crap crap crap. Uh look, stay here I'm gonna look for a friend of mine. Tsume-sama, please look after her." Katsumi said heading out the kitchen

"Who are you gonna look for?" Tsume asked firmly

"A friend of mine, her name is Ayano. You remember her, the Yamanaka?" Katsumi quickly responded

"The blondie? I do, why do you need her?" Tsume asked understanding

"She can calm her down, and if I don't find her soon she's only going to get worst." Katsumi said looking at the still body of Hiromi

"She doesn't look that bad. Maybe a bit depressed, but that's it." Hana said not getting

"Trust me, it always starts this way. In a few minutes she gonna have a panic attack, and scream her head off. Just trust me ok?" Katsumi said worried

"Do you have something that has her scent?" Tsume said

"I don't, but her room's not that far away. Wait, why?" Katsumi said confused

"I'll find her, you know her better so you stay here. Quickly find something of hers, and get back here." Tsume ordered

"Yes, Tsume-sama!" Katsumi said with a salute

"And I told you before to call me Tsume. I appreciate your respect, but you're mother was a good friend of mine. We can discuss this later, now go!" Tsume said pointing out the door

"Yes Ma'am!" Katsumi said as she ran out of the kitchen

"Why is she so devoted? Isn't she technically a traitor-ow!" Hana said as her mother clobbered her

"Don't say such things Hana." Tsume said sternly much to her daughters confusion

"But the High Elders-"

"The Elders are stubborn fools still upset over the fact their traditions were shot to hell. Why do you think I'm clan head?" Tsume asked

"Because you're the strongest duh." Hana said as if it was obvious as Tsume sighed in disappointment

"Is that all?" Tsume said hiding her disappointment

"Uh...you and Kuromaru work together better than anyone in the clan?" Hana said trying to think of something else

"That's also true, but there's something else." Tsume said holding a sigh in

"What's that?" Hana asked

"Tell me Hana, what comes to mind when you think of an Alpha?" Tsume asked seriously as Hana thought about it

"Well, they have to be the strongest, fastest, and smartest of us. They also have to have a strong respect/connection with their companion, and their companion must feel the same." Hana said after some thinking

"That's a good start, but you're missing something. Two somethings in fact." Tsume said with her hand

"What am I missing? That's what you are mom." Hana praised

"Thank you honey, but you need to learn there are other qualities to becoming the Alpha in our pack as well as Clan head of the Inuzuka." Tsume said

"Like what?" Hana asked interested

"A masterful balance between Leadership, and Dominance. You can be strong enough to smash through boulders, but that doesn't keep your pack together. You can be swifter than a wolf, but that won't stop your men from insubordination. You can be book smart, street smart, or hell even fight smart on the battlefield, but that takes you so far when leading troops into battle." Tsume lectured

"So is everything I mentioned before useless?" Hana said disappointed with herself

"No, those are all important too, but being clan head means being a leader and being alpha means showing who's boss. Being an Inuzuka means more than a pair of sharp claws and fangs, at least to a Clan Head of the Inuzuka." Tsume said with a grin

"I'm back Tsume-sama! Here, a shirt of hers." Katsumi said out of breath

"What took you so long?" Hana asked annoyed

"She decided today of all days was laundry day, and I didn't stay here long enough to find the damn pantry." Katsumi replied even more annoyed

"That's enough you guys. I'll be back as soon as I can so watch over the girl, and behave Kiba." Tsume said to her clansmen

"Yes, mum." Kiba sighed

"Sure, mom." Hana said with a shrug

"You got it Tsume-sama!" Katsumi said eagerly

"It's Tsume-oh forget it. Kuromaru, let's go." Tsume said

"Niichan...you really did leave me...didn't you?" Hiromi said to herself as tears rolled down her face as Kiba began to be even more concerned for the girl he met yesterday.

---

Konoha Hospital

Deciding to take her concerns directly to one person she believe could help Ayano left early in the morning in the hopes of finding a cure for Shintaro's condition if one could call it that. She would've done so yesterday weren't it not for personal matters she had to attend to, but deciding to leave early in the morning Ayano was hopeful this time to get at least an audience with her future trainer. She felt horrible leaving Hiromi behind, but decided she needed rest after having to suffer her various mental breakdowns throughout the day that took her energy. Her last one was the one to finally knock her out into a near comatose state.

She felt for the girl, she really did, but the way Hiromi acts when Shintaro isn't around is bad for her health. Ayano was definitely considering taking Hiromi to Inoichi for therapy lessons on having to deal with this. Or maybe the person she was coming to see had the answers to her problem as well. There was only one way to find out, and that was to find the Legendary Sannin (among other things) for her medical knowledge.

Ayano was walking through the halls of the hospital white, and clean in hopes of finding the last Senju. Though she didn't have to look far from what she heard next.

"Lady Tsunade come back here please. We still have to wait for the letter from-"

"She's a big girl now, and if she's still chasing fairy tales about her dead teammate then she can keep looking. I can't believe I wasted my time teaching that girl, so much potential, and what does she do with it? Waste it looking for that brat who couldn't even throw a shuriken straight." Tsunade said angrily

"Lady Tsunade, there wasn't proof that he was killed in the field of battle, his body was never found." Shizune said defending whoever they were talking about

"That happens to a lot of ninjas in war Shizune, a lot die in battle, some bodies make it back, most don't that's life. She just hasn't accept that fact yet, and until she does I don't want anything to do with her unless it's life or death." Tsunade said not changing her mind

"Lady Tsunade. Just wait a moment please, she wanted to stay but-"

"But nothing. If she cared about us or Kushina I'd have a different opinion about the idea of her coming here, but she'd rather find ghosts than stay with the living." Tsunade said shaking her head in extreme disappointment

"Who are they talking about? Should I leave? No, this is urgent, I need to speak with Tsunade-sama about Shintaro-kun's condition...but she looks so angry." Ayano thought to herself

"U-Um, excuse me?" Ayano said nervously to the raging Sannin

"Who's there?" Tsunade asked not in a mood to talk

"Lady Tsunade please calm down. Is that you Ayano-san?" Shizune said as they walked closer to Ayano

"H-Hai." Ayano confirmed

"What are you doing he-oh no. You're not here to start your training early are you? I said three days, not two, and besides I'm having enough to deal with from my students as it is. My current students are the reason for this migraine of mine, and I don't any more trouble much less my future pupil. You have potential, but don't think for a second i'm going to go easy on you, that Uzumaki brat, or that sister of Shintaro's either." Tsunade said irritated that she has to teach again so soon.

"A-Ano, I didn't come here about that. B-But rest assured I will give it my all! If Shintaro-kun can believe in my abilities enough to be your student then I'll give it my all I swear it!" Ayano said determined with conviction

"You have spirit I'll give you that, but if spirit was all you need to become a great ninja then Guy should be a god. Listen you, I have had a total of 2 personal students in my career. Shizune, and one that I'm not looking forward to seeing again. Both can testify the hell I put them through to bring out the full capacity, and potential they posses as medical nin. Isn't that right Shizune?" Tsunade said with an evil smirk

"Y-Yes Lady Tsunade, your training methods are...effective, but have molded me in the student I am today." Shizune said carefully as the memories pain from training began coming back to her

"Though the memory of her training sessions still hurt beyond comprehension." Shizune thought to herself as she unconsciously rubbed her arms

"L-Lady Tsunade?" Ayano said meekly getting her attention

"What is it? In fact why are you even here if it's not about your training?" Tsunade said confused as to why she was here

"I-If I may ask a question. I-It's not about your o-other student if that's w-what you're thinking." Ayano said getting more nervous

"Well that's good. You're off to a good start then. So, what's this question of yours?" Tsunade said crossing her arms

"Ano...it's about Shintaro-kun. I-I was wondering to g-get your p-professional opinion about him...h-he has a rare condition that's..."

"That's what?" Tsunade said starting to get interested

"I-I'ts been with him since birth, and has been in danger of it killing him since birth." Ayano said sadly

"What? How is that possible?" Shizune said shocked

"Oh Kami, you're not talking an STD are you? Is that why he wears that mask all the time?" Tsunade said annoyed

"Lady Tsunade!" Shizune chided

"N-No! S-Shintaro-kun doesn't have a-anything like that! I-It's actually chakra based." Ayano said blushing

"Chakra based?" Tsunade said getting serious as Ayano broke down

"Tsunade-sama please, there has to be something you can do for him! Shintaro-kun's been fighting this on his own, and he said there's no cure but I don't believe him! Please Tsunade-sama, I beg you to help Shintaro-kun. You're the only one who can help him." Ayano choked out with tears coming down from her face

"Geez, here I was you were going to ask me something simple, but no. I have to solve a rare chakra based disease that's been in danger of killing that kid since birth, what a mess." Tsunade said rubbing the back of her head

"Forgive me Tsunade-sama, I did not wish to burden you, but your medical expertise is the only thing that can save him. I-If you need me to do anything at all please don't hesitate to ask." Ayano said regaining her composure

"It's that serious huh? Should've figured, the Senpu are always known for never half-assing anything, so it shouldn't be much of a surprise that it includes diseases as well much less a chakra based one. Alright fine, when he comes back I'll see what I can do, but you're gonna have to give me something to work with." Tsunade sighed putting her hands on her hip

"Oh, thank you Tsunade-sama! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Ayano said happily repeatedly bowing

"But! In exchange you are going to go through some pre-training today. I'm gonna see what you're made of, your performance is going to determine my motivation on this rare chakra disease of Shintaro's." Tsunade said sharply with a serious look on her face as Shizune saw where this was going

"Lady Tsunade, don't you think that's a bit too harsh?" Shizune said trying to derail her thinking

"If she's a medical nin or has knowledge at all in medicinal properties she knows how serious a chakra based disease can be. If she's willing to bring this up to me this early so sure of herself going so far as to say she's willing to do anything then she better be able to back it up. Is that clear?" Tsunade said with a look that said "don't argue" to which Ayano quivered in fear

"Hai, Tsunade-sama!" Ayano said straightening up

"You're awfully energetic." Tsunade said with a raised eyebrow

"If it means you taking Shintaro-kun's condition seriously I'll do anything. Just say the what you want or need me to do Tsunade-sama, and I won't hesitate or a second." Ayano said looking Tsunade in the eye

"Such enthusiasm. Alright then, first task and final task." Tsunade said putting her foot down stiffening Ayano

"Already? No, I told her I'd do anything, and I will! If it's for Shintaro-kun I'll gladly do it." Ayano thought to herself shaking her head clear of doubt

"Ready, Tsunade-sama!" Ayano said ready to do anything

"Ok then, answer these two questions." Tsunade said with a small smirk

"Just a few questions? No, I shouldn't dismiss it, I need to take this serious." Ayano thought to herself

"Hai, Tsunade-sama, I'm ready." Ayano said nodding that she's ready

"Love or Duty? Which is more important to a medical ninja?" Tsunade said in a teacher like tone throwing Ayano off her train of thought

"Tsunade-sama." Shizune said to herself in sympathy to Ayano

"Huh?" Ayano said to herself in confusion

"I'll say it again Love or Duty? Which is more important to a medical ninja?" Tsunade repeated patiently

"I-It would be duty wouldn't it? To a medical nin, I mean." Ayano clarified

"Ok then. Now, which is more important to you?" Tsunade said keeping a straight face

"Uh...to me?" Ayano asked unsure of what to say

"Answer the question." Tsunade said annoyed

"Lady Tsunade please, she's too young for this question." Shizune said trying to get Ayano out the situation she was in

"I gave it to you when you were 13, and I gave it to her just a year younger. If both of you managed to answer that question then she can as well." Tsunade said with a dark look on her face

"Tsunade-sama, if I may. What does this have to do with teaching medical ninjutsu?" Ayano asked unaware of the purpose of these questions

"Well, I guess you are a bit younger than the last two. Alright, I'll explain it, but if I do you better be able to answer me, if you don't you can forget about me teaching you or your friends. Got it?" Tsunade said sharply

"H-Hai." Ayano said sweating nervously

"Love or Duty? That question comes into play more times than you can imagine as a ninja, much less a medical nin who is also a female. You know as well as I do that we females are biologically more emotional then men are, it's just how we are. The reason I'm telling you this is because our hearts play into how we act when we're on duty, and for medical nin that could mean life or death. Put yourself in this scenario." Tsunade said as her face took on a grim appearance

"Why do I have a bad feeling about this?" Ayano thought worrying herself

"You are a medical nin in war in a four man squad on your way back from a mission to deliver a crucial scroll that'll help your village end the war. You're ambushed, and you manage to fend the enemy off. However, there are injured in your squad as well as casualties. Your captain is dead, two minor injuries, and one in critical condition. That one just so happens to be the one person you care deeply for...the one you love." Tsunade said with her head down that caused Ayano to widen her eyes

"What!?" Ayano thought to herself as the image of a dying Shintaro was plastered in her head

"You preform medical ninjutsu immediately on him. After a quick diagnostic check you learn he has damage to the tendon's in his right leg causing him to be immobile, his aorta veins are also compromised from a kunai thrown at him, and is bleeding fast. You do your best, but you also find out there is a hole in his lung. He's lying on the forest floor, smiling at you thinking you'll bring him back like you always do. Time moves on, he isn't getting better, and he knows that yet he's still smiling."

"More enemies are on their way, and you have to leave. However, there might be a chance to save him, that is if you preform surgery on him, but it's still a small chance to save him. So you have two choices stay, and risk the lives of your comrade or leave the one you love to save your village? You are the acting head of the team so what do you choose? Love or Duty?" Tsunade asked with a serious look on her face as Ayano began to panic on the inside

"T-This is impossible! All I'm imagining is Shintaro-kun's face, and...I can't make a decision like this. Shintaro-kun would want me to be safe, but I couldn't leave him. I mean Shintaro-kun wouldn't leave...actually Shintaro-kun has. He was forced to leave so many of his friends because of us...because of me. His childhood friends, his fellow jinchuuriki...even his family. He had to leave it all, had it all taken away from him, all because he had to keep us alive. He only has Misaka-san, and Hiromi-chan...the last two people in this world who he loves with all his heart, and Misaka-san...If I lost Shusuke, or mother. He's so much stronger than me, but what would I do if I lost Shintaro-kun...I couldn't go on."

"What drives Shintaro-kun? He lost so much, and he's still...he's still going. Dragging himself ahead of us taking everything alone with no one to lean on, how does he do it? Would I be able to go through what he went through, and still move on? No, I couldn't. So, which is more important to me? Love or Duty?"

"Lady Tsunade, perhaps we could wait on giving her this-"

"Will it matter?" Ayano said quietly

"Excuse me?" Tsunade asked not hearing Ayano

"Will it matter? If I don't answer to your liking will you abandon Shintaro-kun's treatment?" Ayano asked somewhat harshly giving Tsunade a strict look

"This kid..." Tsunade thought to herself hiding a smirk

"What do you think?" Tsunade replied plainly

"F-Forgive me Tsunade-sama, but...I know as a medical ninja in any village that the second option would be second nature to them. However, when you presented me this scenario all I could see is Shintaro-kun's face, and knowing what he looks like underneath that mask just makes it harder. When I think of what would happen if I was in that scenario all I can see is Shintaro-kun smiling at me telling it's ok to leave...like he has before. He would always stand up no matter his injuries, stand me up, and charge into battle on his own. Every time he goes off on his own leaving me behind, as I depend on him." Ayano said downcast on herself

"If I was in that scenario...I would tell my comrades to take the scroll, and leave me. I would stay behind with Shintaro-kun to defend him even if it meant my death. I know it's selfish, and childish of me to think that way. But if I were to look in Shintaro-kun's eyes knowing he'd want me to leave...I couldn't. I will not turn on those I deem precious to me Tsunade-sama. If there is even a small chance of saving a life, I'm willing to risk my own. So, my answer is not either Love or Duty, but both. I would stay with the one I love, while fulfilling my duty both as a member of my village, and as a medical nin." Ayano said with a fire in her eyes not backing down

"Is that your final answer?" Tsunade asked bending down to Ayano's face looking into her eyes

"It is." Ayano replied

"What is it the kids these days?" Tsunade sighed to herself

"Ok then, I wasn't expecting an answer like that, but I'm glad I did. Now, I have an idea of what kind of person you are." Tsunade said bending back up

"T-Tsunade-sama?" Ayano asked starting to wonder if she did any good

"Stow that talk young lady. From this moment forward you will refer to me as Tsunade-sensei, and you just solidified an appointment for Shintaro to get a full physical check up the second he gets back." Tsunade said as Ayano's eyes began sparkling with hope

"Really? Thank you Tsunade-sa-I mean Tsunade-sensei! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you so much! I won't let you down I swear! Oh, I'm just so happy right now, but I'm sorry Tsunade-sensei I have to leave. I left early in hopes I can come back before Hiromi-chan wakes up." Ayano said as she settled down

"You mean that sister of Shintaro? Is she alone?"

"No, but she thinks she might as well be. I wish I could explain further-"

"Finally! So this is where you were." an agitated female voice said

"Tsume?" Tsunade said confused about the appearance of the Inuzuka

"Tsunade-sama, sorry about this, but I need to take this girl back home. It's an emergency that has to with this little blonde girl. Hiromi I think-"

"Hiromi-chan! She's awake? Oh no, please tell me there were others with her when you found her." Ayano said afraid of the possible outcomes this would spark

"No, far as I can tell she was on her own." Tsume said shaking her head causing Ayano's eyes to widen in horror and her heart sank to her stomach

"Oh dear Kami, forgive me Tsunade-sensei, but I must leave now. Tsume-sama, may I ask that you that you take me there as fast you can. If I don't get there soon, Hiromi-chan will-"

"I got the gist of it from Katsumi. Kuromaro?" Tsume said to her canine partner who barked in response

"Ok, get on Kuromaru then we can leave." Tsume said pointing to Kuromaru

"Eh? I-I wouldn't want to be rude or impose, Katsumi-san told me how sacred it is for only their companions are allowed to ride them unless it's an emergency. I'll just-AIIEEE!" Ayano squealed as Tsume rolled her eyes before picking up Ayano by the collar plopping her on Kuromaru

"Ah screw that, Kuromaru says it's fine so let's go." Tsume said slapping Ayano's back hard

"O-OK!" Ayano agreed nodding her head rapidly as Tsume took off out the window with Kuromaru following as Ayano screamed

"Do you think we should go with them Tsunade-sama?" Shizune asked her teacher

"Don't know about you, but I am. Beats waiting around here for a letter from her." Tsunade said jumping after Tsume

"Tsunade-sama, wait for me please!" Shizune said as she picked up TonTon and followed after Tsunade

---

Elsewhere in Konoha's streets

Walking through Konoha with her son and clansmen, Kushina was doing her best to arrive at the hotel before the worst case scenario presented itself. She felt bad that she was dragging her son around this morning, but once she told him the reasoning Naruto was even willing to run there for Hiromi's sake. Kushina was pissed off to say the least hearing about how Hiromi's first day at school went, but she was proud of her son at the same time for defending his friend.

Kushina stayed the entire day to help look after Hiromi doing what she could to ease her pain, and struggle of the fear of her brother leaving her alone. Kushina even said she would stay with Hiromi with her in bed like she did when Ayano, and Shintaro went out. However, she was surprised to hear Hiromi reject her offer, saying she wanted to try at least one night on her own even without Ayano by her side. Kushina then at least wanted to stay in the room next door or at least in the hotel, but she also wanted her son to get used to the new house they're living in. There wasn't a Uzumaki clan compound in Konoha or anything related to the Uzumaki as far as she knew so the mansion Hiruzen gave them would have to serve as their home.

When Kushina received a message from Haku that Hiromi may be left on her own this morning, and asked to be there she knew she should've stayed at least in the hotel. Now, she was pacing herself to make up for lost time. It may be close to 7:40, but to a child that's like the crack of dawn for them. However, she didn't expect Honoka, much less Karin to be already up, and changed. They explained that they often left early to get a head start on where they would travel next. Right now they were almost near the streets that led into the hotel talking about various things.

"Do you think Hiromi-chan is ok Onee-chan?" Karin asked Honoka who sighed

"I'm sure she's fine, or at least I hope she is. I swear, Hiromi was always joint at the hip with that useless brother of his. Whenever he is around she's competent, friendly, cheerful, and smiling almost all the time. But the second when she's separated from him she becomes frail, meek as a mouse, sullen, and hardly grins. She depends way too much on him and given who he is, what he has to do, and especially since were in Konoha now he's going to be on the move a lot. If not for to keep those hunter nin off our trail, he has to go to provide for them financially." Honoka answered wondering about where Shintaro could be right now

"Were you guys in financial trouble before?" Kushina asked curious

"Well actually Kushina obaa-sama, despite him being the son of Jiyu Senpu, the savior of the Uzumaki clan, as well as other things not including being the leader of The Fallen. He's not exactly lined up with cash, maybe he can get a part time job here, but being the landlord demands more than a small paycheck. Honestly, what was he thinking doing things on his own? Despite his track record of things working out for him when he does it alone his luck won't run forever." Honoka said shaking her head

"Track record?" Kushina said even more curious

"Ever since I met him Lad-I mean Kushina-obaa-sama is that he has a tendency for doing things on his own. Like the time we stayed in a hotel in exchange for wiping out a bandit camp that had held the village hostage for some time. Only, we weren't aware of the deal until after it was completed. Shintaro went on his own not only taking down the bandit camp, but the surrounding camps as well as their center operation. In total it was 4 camps that were all larger than the town we stayed in. I'm not aware of the body count, but needless to say it was massive." Honoka said in mild awe remembering that day

"Woah! Shintaro did all that?" Naruto said in amazement as Honoka smiled

"He did Naruto-kun. Among taking down Raiga of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist claiming his blades last year, preventing chaos at the Fire Nation temple a few months ago, assassinating a cruel tyrant of a foreign land far from here, and exposing corruption in a foreign kingdom just to name a few." Honoka said counting the achievements on her hand

"Shintaro did all of that?" Kushina said in amazement

"Wow! He's so cool! Are there any more cool things he's done Honoka-nee?" Naruto said jumping up and down

"Those are the one's I know about, and although they have always worked out in the end for him almost as if..." Honoka said unsure to finish her thought

"As if what?" Kushina pressed

"As if he knew they were going to happen. His travelling methods are crazed, erratic, spontaneous and out of order, but he claims that's to throw the hunters off their trail which for the most part seems to work." Honoka said unsure of whether to believe Shintaro

"For the most part?" Kushina said

"They have on occasion caught up with us, and that is when I'm reminded that even Shintaro has limits." Honoka said grimly

"What do you mean Honoka-nee? Isn't Shintaro unbeatable?" Naruto said confused at Honoka's reaction

"Actually Naruto-kun, he isn't. There are lots of strong people in this world, and some of them want to kill him. For what, I don't know, but he has been on his deathbed more times than I can count from defending us. Most of the time if not always he does it on his own because of the inexperience the group has, but to show the one's hunting us we are not easy prey. Be it people looking for Shintaro, and his friends or Iwa hunter nin after me and Karin he always faced the enemy alone." Honoka said in both respect and frustration at the stubbornness he displayed

"But you guys are all here, doesn't that mean he won every fight?" Naruto asked

"I think it's more accurate to say he's survived more than he's won battles. The reason for that is he's doing a million things on his own. Fighting the enemy, leading them off our trail, protecting us, and making sure they won't follow us again all while trying to keep his own life. Rarely, and I do mean rarely he takes me or Jugo-san into these battles because of our unique ability to blend in nature. He only does this when the enemy force after us is too strong like a four man squad of elite jonin or a member of their Black Ops." Honoka said casually

"That's what Shintaro thinks he can't handle?" Kushina shocked at the caliber of ninja Shintaro wasn't able to handle

"Well, strong enough to endanger the group if they got close enough. Whenever he went off into battle I always wondered how he managed to survive, but when he first took me I got to see it all. Him fighting at his hardest, using everything he has at his disposal. His taijutsu, ninjutsu, kenjutsu, fuuinjutsu, and so much more he uses all of it to it's maximum potential...he truly is strong. It makes me wonder how he can be so strong yet everyone else in his group is so much weaker. He offers training to them, but most of them refuse." Honoka said shaking her head thinking of the times she seen it take action

"Why would they refuse training from Shintaro? He's awesome!" Naruto said ticked off that someone would choose not to train with Shintaro

"It's called pride Naruto-kun. It gets in the way of a lot of things." Kushina explained

"What's pride Mom?" Naruto asked unaware of the concept

"Um...how do I explain it? You know that feeling you get when you do something your way on your own, and actually manage to do it right? Ya know, damn it." Kushina said to herself

"Yeah?" Naruto said getting the gist of it

"It's sort of like that, but waaaaaaay bigger and makes your head big too. A little bit of pride is a good thing, but a lot of it will turn you into a big ol meanie." Kushina said spreading out her arms to explain the magnitude of what she was talking about

"I don't want a be a meanie!" Naruto said horrified at the idea

"Then don't let pride get to you ok Naruto-kun?" Kushina said to her son

"I won't mom, I promise! Dattebayo!" Naruto said excitedly

"Dattebayo?" all three redheads thought together

"I see you still have my of talking huh? That's ok, so long as I can join you Naruto-kun. Dattebayo!" Kushina said happily

"Dattebayo!" Naruto said louder causing mother and son to enter a shouting union

"Dattebayo!" Kushina replied as they went back and forth for about a few minutes

"Shouldn't we be heading back to the hotel Kushina-obaa-sama?" Honoka said interrupting the two

"Oh that's right. We shouldn't delay any longer Naruto-kun, come on let's go." Kushina said laughing it off pointing in the direction of the hotel as Honoka sweat dropped at her aunt's antics

"Hey mom look, a giant dog!" Naruto said pointing upward to an abandoned building

"Giant dog?" Kushina repeated looking to where her son was pointing only seeing a larger than average wolf running across rooftops with a blonde haired girl screaming her head off at the speed they were going

"Was that Kuromaru...with Ayano riding him?" Kushina said to herself not sure what she saw was real

"It...sounded like Ayano-san." Honoka said unsure as well

"It was Ayano-nee." Karin said quietly as all heads turned to her

"How'd could you tell Karin?" Naruto asked

"I don't know. I just know that it's her, and that she's going back to the hotel. Ayano-nee also seemed a bit...worried, and scared too. I don't know why, I just know she feels that way." Karin said confused at the feelings she had

"She must be starting to get Akane's ability to sense chakra, but Akane never felt the emotions of the chakra she sensed. Man, kids these days are always surprising me. Makes me wonder how strong Naruto will be." Kushina thought fondly as she looked at her son thinking of what kind of person he'll be when he grows up like his father

"I don't know why, but I'm also feeling Hiromi-chan." Karin said out of nowhere

"Hiromi?" Kushina said confused as to why she'd be feeling her

"She feels sad, scared...alone." Karin said sadly as Kushina's heart sank

"Oh no. Honoka, grab Karin, and follow me. Naruto-kun, we need to go faster for a bit ok?" Kushina said as she picked up her son

"Is something wrong mom?" Naruto said worried

"I hope not sweetie, I really hope not." Kushina replied as she ran with Honoka following behind with Karin on her back

---

Back inside the hotel

"Hiromi wait up!" Katsumi shouted to a running Hiromi

"Niichan! Niichan where are you? Please answer me! Don't leave me!" Hiromi cried as she looked left and right for her brother before she started running again

"When you said she can get bad I didn't know this is what you meant." Hana said as she ran with Katsumi through the hotel halls

"I told you!" Katsumi said annoyed

"Is she always this fast?" Hana said surprised at the speed Hiromi was going

"Only when she get's like this, which isn't often thank Kami." Katsumi said as she stopped for a second to catch her breath

"She also hits like my mom...actually she hits harder than mom to be honest." Hana said stopping as well

"Yeah, she doesn't look like it, but she's a heavy hitter. I remember the time when I dared her to punch me, and I startled her into doing it. Next thing I knew I was puking my guts out." Katsumi said chuckling

"That hard?" Hana said surprised

"Yup, how I don't know, but I think that idiot brother of hers said something about her having special chakra affecting her muscles. It goes into overdrive when she's emotional which is why she's as fast and strong as she is right now." Katsumi said getting back into a run

"Here I thought I was just getting slower." Hana muttered to herself as she opened the door Hiromi went through only to find a giant staircase going up to the next floor

"How tall is this damn hotel?" Hana said climbing a flight of stairs

"How should I know?" Katsumi said frustrated

"Didn't you live here?" Hana retorted

"For a day! Besides, shouldn't you be able to tell how tall this place is from looking at it?" Katsumi replied as Hana sent her a dirty look

"Oh, excuse me for not taking notice of the landscape while chasing my kid brother!" Hana yelled

"You're a genin aren't you?" Katsumi said expecting an obvious retort about only to hear silence for a few minutes

"What does that have to do with anything?" Hana said with a small blush

"You're a ninja now right?" Katsumi said wondering what the big deal was looking back at Hana

"Let's move on..." Hana said jumping ahead of Katsumi realizing the point of her silence on the subject

"You aren't are you?" Katsumi said with the widest grin on her face

"Shut up!" Hana shouted back at her

"Ha! So much for that age difference. Just goes to show that experience beats training." Katsumi said catching up to Hana

"We'll see about that. Haimaru, manju formation! But don't hurt her!" Hana ordered pointing to their prey

The three dogs barked in response as they jumped in front of Hiromi surrounding her in a pyramid like state, but all it did was frighten Hiromi more.

"Stay away...stay away!" Hiromi yelled as she used her fists to pound the ground causing a mini earthquake on the current floor causing some of the light bulbs to fall out of place crashing near the dogs breaking their formation as they backed off letting Hiromi run upstairs up on another floor.

"Damn it! Haimaru, regroup!" Hana said snapping her fingers as they fell back in line behind Hana

"Tomoko, Tomoki, let's go!" Katsumi said nodding her head to her dog partners jumped ahead

"Hey Hana, is your mother back yet?" Katsumi asked Hana looking behind her

"I think I can smell Kuromaru not too far from here, but it's hard to tell with all this dust everywhere." Hana said as he did a quick sniff of the area

"Damn it, let's hope we can get to Hiromi before she does something stupid or else it'll be my head when Shintaro get's back." Katsumi said gulping at the thought of Shintaro doing something twisted to her if Hiromi got hurt on her watch

"If she get's hurt, he might even use that on me...I gotta make sure she doesn't get hurt or else I could say goodbye to being a bride!" Katsumi thought to herself in fear as she ran faster

Hiromi's Viewpoint

She couldn't see anything, she refused to see anything, but her brother. Nothing else mattered to her, but getting to her brother. Running faster now Hiromi was doing her best to catch up to what started this 5 minutes ago. What was in front her was the image she saw in her nightmares, the back of her older brother. He never responded to her, he just kept walking in front of her never able to catch up to him. Always staying silent not responding once to her cries.

"Niichan, Niichan please wait for me! Don't leave me, Niichan!" Hiromi cried to the figment of her imagination that was her brother

He didn't respond to her again as climbed another set of stairs to which she climbed without hesitation. He walked, and she followed. She cried for him as he remained silent to her. This continued for what seemed like an eternity, and her body was starting to fail her as her voice was too. Tears were about to fall from her face when he suddenly stopped. He looked like he was 15 maybe 20 feet from her, he turned around looked her straight in the eyes, extended his hand towards her smiling with his eyes, and finally spoke.

"Come on Hiromi, let's be together, forever." the figment of Shintaro said in a lovable brotherly tone as Hiromi began tearing up

"Niichan. I'm coming niichan!" Hiromi said cheerfully

She ran, she thought they could be together again. He was holding his hand out for her, he finally noticed her, and she was never going to let go of him again. She ran, and ran with tears flowing from her eyes not caring that she looked weak. She thought she heard voices, but they were muffled trying to call out to her. It didn't matter, she needed him and only him, and right now he needed her and only her.

He was only inches from her, his hand almost reaching hers. She was about to grab it until what felt like arms grabbed her. Long black arms grabbing her body holding her down as she struggled to get free. She tried to break free, but the arms wouldn't let go of Hiromi keeping her from her beloved brother.

"Let me go! Niichan help!" She called out only to have her brother give a different response than she had hoped for

He stopped smiling with his eyes changing from a gentle look to a disappointing stare that crushed her. He began to slowly retreat his hand causing Hiromi to retaliate harder, and plead to her brother more.

"Sis, I thought you wanted to be with me. I thought you loved me." the ghostly Shintaro said in a hurtful tone

"Niichan wait! I do love you Niichan Please wait! I'm trying Niichan, I really am! I want to be with you forever!" Hiromi yelled as she fought against the arms holding her back

Shintaro's hand still retreated back from Hiromi as his eyes turned from a disappointing stare to a sorrow filled glare as he clenched his fist.

"I see that you don't need me anymore. Ok, guess I'll leave then." the ghostly Shintaro said sullen with his head down turning away from Hiromi

"Niichan wait please! Don't leave me Niichan, please don't leave me! I can't lose you too! Mommy and Daddy left me, they abandoned me, and your all I have left! Please...don't leave me...I love you." Hiromi said with all her heart as tears just kept falling from her eyes

"But not enough to be with me. Goodbye, Hiromi." the figment said as his began fading away with the wind disappearing from her sight

"Niichan wait! Don't leave me! Don't leave me! Just give me another chance I'll prove it! I'll prove that I love you Niichan just don't leave me! NIICHAN!" Hiromi cried out one last time as she saw the image of her brother fade away into the wind.

It was then at that moment every last bit of strength in her body was drained. Whatever resistance she pulled off against the arms was gone, she just gave in. Her heart was broken, the last bit of hope she held in her heart was gone. She had no control of her body or her emotions. Which would explain the faded voices she heard earlier go silent, the endless stream of tears running down Hiromi's face from her vacant eyes, and her repeated whispering of her beloved brother leaving her. She could only cry silently as the arms drew her into the darkness with only a broken spirit, and a black hole left inside her heart.

"Niichan..."

---

Back with Shintaro

He was standing on top of a rooftop, the rooftop of the Daimyo building. Where he was investigating a disturbance that gained his attention. The source of disturbance came from the Daimyo's meeting room, and everyone had mixed feelings over it. Everyone knew, but never spoke about how the Daimyo was ruining the land with his greed. What had everyone feeling down was the fact that everyone else including the servants were killed as well.

What had happened to the Daimyo specifically was that the Daimyo was left without a head lying in the center of where he sat with no indication off who did it. Just a single message written with his blood.

I Accept Your Offer.

The headless corpse wasn't what bothered Shintaro, it wasn't the pointless deaths of innocents that had him bothered, it wasn't even the scent the blood that nearly brought him to his knees. No, it was the message left behind that had chills running up his spine. If what he thought was true, then he would need to finish this mission as soon as possible.

Sneaking inside the Daimyo's Private chambers Shintaro was crawling on the ceiling concentrating chakra in both his hands, and feet to keep himself from being discovered from the police investigating the scene. Currently there was about 5 people in there including Shintaro, one of whom was obviously the lead investigator while the other 3 were searching the room for clues as to who did it.

"What a mess. Guy was a jackass, but even he didn't deserve this much less the people who worked for him." the Chief said shaking his head

"Who would do such a thing chief?" the first officer said appalled at the scene

"Obviously it was someone who had something to gain from Daichi-sama's death." the second oficer said looking at the message left on the wall

"Do you think we should still call him that? The guy's dead, and it's not like he was deserving of the title to begin with." the third officer said

"It's called respect for the dead moron." the second officer replied annoyingly

"Why would I respect someone dead when I didn't when he was alive?" the third officer replied

"Because he's gonna haunt your ass if you don't." the first officer answered

"OOOOooooh, so scary! Please Daichi-sama, don't yell at me anymore!" the third officer mocked acting scared of the supposed "ghost"

"It's your life man, if you want it haunted then that's your problem, but don't come crying to me when he comes back." the second officer said shaking his head

"Enough chit-chat, did you boys find anything?" the Chief said breaking the chit-chat

"Nothing sir, nothing's taken. His jewels are still in his cabinet's, his clothes are left alone, closet hasn't been ransacked, even the money left in his personal wallet is untouched." the first officer answered going through the bedroom

"So, if whoever did this wasn't doing it for the money what else?" the third officer asked

"Revenge?" the second officer offered

"That doesn't really narrow it down man." the third officer replied

"You got any better ideas?" the second officer answered

"Serial Killing?" the third officer said in slight confidence

"Then what's the pattern or the killer's signature?" the first officer countered

"Kill everyone in a Daimyo Tower?" the third officer said with a weak grin

"If that's the case we need to alert the local lands Daimyo as well. Let's hope that isn't the case. Any other ideas?" the Chief said shaking his head

"I think it was a business deal gone wrong." the first officer said confidently

"How'd you figure?" the Chief asked

"Well, obviously it was between whoever the Daimyo was seeing, and either the Daimyo himself or a third party." the first explained

"That's pretty specific, what made you think that?" the Chief asked for clarification

"This." the first said as he showed his colleagues a scroll with writing on it, but half of it was covered in spots of blood

"What's that?" the third officer asked confused of what his friend was showing him

"You know how the Daimyo always had that pencil neck scribe with him all the damn time writing down everything he said?" the first said in annoyance

"Yeah?" the third replied

"These are his recent entries." the first explained as his colleagues eyes widen

"What do they say?" the Chief ordered

"Can't tell, half of it is stained with the guy's blood. From what I can tell the Daimyo was supposed to be in a meeting with someone important. Who I don't know, but it was intended as an opportunity to boost his power and influence." the first said as he struggled to read the scroll

"Figures, I hate politics, but this is insane. Damn, last night we had to deal with the Fuma clan being massacred, and now this." the Chief said shaking his head in exhaustion

"Do you think they're connected?" the second offered

"Unlikely, but even if they are something is definitely up. Alright, I think we've done all we can here. Let's pack it up, and let the body snatchers clean up this mess." the Chief said as he popped his back into place

"Hey sir?" the second ask

"What is it?" the Chief answered tiredly

"I just had a thought." the second said crossing his arms

"Well, what is it?" the Chief said annoyingly

"What if shinobi are involved?" the second ask as all men in the room realized the mess this would bring if Shinobi were involved

"Shit." the first cursed

"God damn it." the third said kicking the wall

"Don't you mean Kami?" the second said slightly insulted

"Are you really bringing up religious crap now? Any god will do, and just saying god in general is easier than Kami." the third said in annoyance

"He's got a point, not the religious thing that's irrelevant. If shinobi are involved there's not much we can do. Especially considering our main head of government is dead. Do we even have enough to hire shinobi for this?" the Chief grunted in frustration

"Damn the 5 Great Nations. It's bad enough they used our land for their wars, the least they can do is stay out of our business." the first said angrily

"That is, until The Fallen came in, and whooped their asses out of here." the third said in a lighthearted tone

"I know right, I remember when I was just a kid during the Iwa occupation. Konoha was also looking to cash in on our location because of it's stragtegic value." the second said remembering his youth

"But the entirety of our own ninja clan went to the field to defend our land, the former Fuma clan when it had the numbers and strength to fend off most invaders." the first said

"They all stared each other down across the field, ready to fight each other to the death." the third said in anticipation

"Then, out of nowhere comes Jiyu Senpu, with only 3 of his comrades behind him to go against 2 platoons on each side. Jiyu simply asked them to stop fighting, and leave this place. Neither side would budge an inch, and Jiyu asked them again to retreat. Neither side gave in, and warned the other to leave unless they wanted to die." the first said heroically

"Jiyu sighed, shook his head, and signaled the three others behind him. Together they put their hands together to form a single hand sign." the second continued

"All together they said 3 words, and preformed a single jutsu that ended the battle..." the third said holding his breath for the best part as they all shouted

"Shadow clone Jutsu!"

"Then thousands upon thousands solid duplicates of Jiyu, and his comrades stretching farther than the eye can see surrounded both the Iwa and Konoha shinobi including the Fuma as well. They all drew their weapons, the Jiyu clones along with the original pulled out his signature single edged katana, the second member removed a two handed double sided war maul/axe from his back, another member with its clones removed a set of tonfa blades, and the last one with its clones took out a special pair of chakra enhanced gloves that enhanced one's strength to rival that of the Legendary Sannin Tsunade!" the third said excitingly like a school child

"Both sides were surprised, and were prepared to fight. However, Jiyu with his comrades raised their killer intent to the max causing a tidal wave of oppression weighing down on them. Jiyu, and his allies raised their weapons at both sides. They stared both the Iwa and Konoha shinobi, and muttered one word that caused the shinobi to quake in their boots." the second said in admiration

"Run." the Chief said quietly as the three officers turned to their boss with a cheesy smile on their faces as he finished the tale

"And they fled, not wanting to die, and live to fight another day. It was then that Jiyu stationed the three members with him to defend this area along with the local lands from shinobi of the 5 Great Nations." the Chief said theatrically

"Thus began the tale of-"

"Jiyu, and the Bloodless Battle of the Four Armies." Shintaro finished as he gracefully fell from the ceiling

"Oh man, I love that story!" the third said not aware of who finished the story

"Yeah! Dad used to tell me that one all the-wait who said that?" the first said realizing the new voice in the room

"I did. Dad did have a way of getting things done with mainly his words." Shintaro said leaning against the wall

"Intruder!" the second said drawing his sword

"Hold it right there!" the third said getting into a fighting stance drawing his sword

"Arrest him!" the first said pulling out his sword as well

"Wait!" the Chief said holding up his hand

"What is it Chief?" the first said not taking his eyes off Shintaro

"Yeah, this kid is trespassing on a crime scene. What's the big deal?" the third asked confused about the situation

"Kid, what'd you mean when you talked earlier?" the Chief asked

"What, about my dad?" Shintaro said nonchalantly

"Your dad?" the Chief repeated

"Oh that's right, allow me to introduce myself. Hello, my name is Shintaro Senpu, firstborn son of Jiyu Senpu." Shintaro said with a bow as all 4 men in the room gasped

"N-No way, a-a Senpu? Here?" the first said in awe

"Jiyu Senpu's kid...h-holy shit Jiyu Senpu's kid!" the third said in amazement as Shintaro internally sighed

"Here we go. Never figured my name would be the center of all this attention. Might as well play this to my advantage. Maybe I need to revisit the 5 Great Nations again, see what details I missed." Shintaro thought to himself

"Yeah, that's me. So, mind telling me what's going on here? Besides all the blood here I can guess what went down, and from listening to your conversation I-"

"Holy Shit a Senpu! C-Can I have your autograph? It's for my boy Hanataro, he loves the stories of The Fallen, especially the ones involving your father." the third said taking out a sheet of paper from the closet, and a brush dipped in ink

"Uh...sure. Never done it before, but you can be the first one to ever get one." Shintaro laughed nervously

"Really? O-Oh man, then that's even better! I can't wait to tell my boy. He wants to be a ninja, but we don't have the funds for a ninja academy." the third said in disappointment

"That sucks." Shintaro said taking the paper and brush

"I know, but at least he's trying." the third sighed

"I heard he's gonna try, and save up for the Search for his 12th birthday." the second said in slight respect as the third grinned weakly

"I know, his mother isn't too happy about it. I wish he would do it at a later time, but you know how he gets." the third sighed

"Search?"Shintaro thought to himself

"What the heck is the Search?" Shintaro asked in confusion

"Oh, that's right. You probably don't know about it since you're part of The Fallen. You're probably too young to know this, but during every war of the past relating to Shinobi, especially the past 3 Shinobi World wars The Fallen have always come out to defend us little folk. They were an inspiration to us, and were willing to accept anyone who wanted to be part of it even if temporarily. Some stayed, some left, but to those who wanted to join The Fallen after the war has to look for them. No one knows where The Fallen take up their home base, but that's part of the challenge." the third explained

"Guess that explains all the hitchhikers we encountered over the years."

"The Fallen are known for making mediocre soldiers, weak civilians, and even children to some of the most loyal, dangerous agents in their ranks. No one knows what they go through for their training regiment, but they never come back the same if they come back at all. The Search for some is a way to join The Fallen for their own reasons good or bad, but for kids like my son it's to make his dream of being a protector of those he cares about." The second continued

"A noble goal. One I can respect." Shintaro nodded as he began writing on the paper

"Thank you, that means a lot coming from you." the third said honestly

"Well, I don't really consider myself all that important, but if you can there's a small favor I'd like to ask of you. All of you actually, it'll make something I'm trying to do a whole lot easier." Shintaro said honestly

"Anything. Just ask." the third said

"Count us in as well." the first said pointing to the second and Chief who all nodded

"Thanks. Oh, and before I forget here you go. It's a prototype, but consider it an original." Shintaro said handing back the paper to the third man

"Oh I will, I'm sure he'll appreciate it." the third said in appreciation

"Thanks, now this is want I want you guys to do." Shintaro said forming a grin on his face

"What?" the third said awaiting orders

"Spread the word out as far as you can. Tell everyone you know, mail it out to your friends, family I don't know or care how you do it." Shintaro said seriously

"Tell them what?" the first asked as all 4 men witnessed a change in the boy's eyes erasing any doubt in their minds that whether or not he was a Senpu

"On the order of Jiyu Senpu's firstborn son Shintaro Senpu, I hereby delcare that The Fallen are coming back, and that we're regrouping in Konoha. If any have doubts tell them this message, and all Fallen members will not doubt trust your legitimacy."

"What's the message?" the third asked

"You idiot! He was about to tell us!" the second chided

"Now, now settle down. No need to start a fuss over me." Shintaro said in an easygoing tone

"Sorry about that." the second apologized

"No worries, now this the message I want you to give if any Fallen come your way." Shintaro said as he changed his tone

"When wanted we walk to make the Stone crumbles beneath us."

"When called upon we tread Water so that tidal waves follow after."

"When sought after we will tear the Clouds to reach very heavens themselves."

"When requested we will journey through the Sand turning the dunes to glass."

"Now when summoned, where the Leaves shall fall, The Fallen shall rise." Shintaro said seriously raising his tightened fist with an eye of a veteran warrior preparing for battle.

---

Elsewhere in an unknown location

The place was dark, damp, and the only light provided was the recently lit candles spread throughout the cave like room. Save for the candles it was pitch black, and it was rapidly changing as more and more candles were being lit by the second. The only audible sounds were the rhythmic beat of cave water dripping from stalactites around the cave.

If one were to look around no human or any life form could be found nor any trace at all. That is until a voice ended the silence.

"The call has been made." a mysterious voice said from the shadows

"It has been made by one who shares his blood." another voice said as more and more new voices began to join the conversation

"Should we leave? Kiri is still a bloodbath."

"We were summoned, and by one who shares the blood of Jiyu Senpu."

"Kiri has lessened their witch hunt on bloodline users, and have thus increased our ranks."

"Our strength has grown since the 10 have left."

"Yes, the Great 10 Hands. Some, if not our absolute strongest that defied, and cut the strings of fate that have tied us down."

"The rumors were true then. The ones relating to the children travelling across the 5 Great Nations, and managing to escape from the heart of 3 of them."

"Intelligence says otherwise."

"What does that mean?"

"I decided to use my own resources to figure if these rumors were just that, rumors. However, as of a recent update I have learned of a group of children recently entering Konoha a few days ago."

"That village of supposed peace-loving tree humpers?"

"The same."

"So what, probably some refugees of a caravan."

"The group consisted of children, all of which under the age of 13. The group consisted of about 20 or so children, 10 of whom wore masks covering their faces. One in particular had blue hair, a scar over his right eye, and walks like a warrior."

"You mean..."

"It seems as though the next generation of The Great 10 has arrived after all."

"Konoha you say?"

"And we just so happened to be summoned."

"Coincidence?"

"There are no such things."

"So, are we leaving or not?"

"Isn't it obvious? We answer the call."

"Huh, very well then."

"You hear that missy? You're going home."

Upon saying those words a woman began to walk out of the shadows, but was still hidden so that only its figure was shown. It was obviously a grown woman in her late teens between 17-19, she had a beautiful hourglass figure, but was more athletic than fashionable. She was wearing a long sleeved black top with a black apron covering the skin tight shorts she was wearing. She had a Konoha headband on her forehead, and a chunin flak vest over her shirt that had more pockets filled with various medical supplies.

"It has been a long time. I wonder if Kakashi-kun misses me, and maybe I'll get so see Naruto-kun. Though, I doubt I'll be welcomed, but if that is our next destination I have no complaints." the woman said with a gentle smile on her face