"I can't believe they just did that...why? Why would they do such a thing to one of their own?" Mirai said to herself in horror of what she just saw
"Don't you remember? That wasn't of one of them according to that woman. Rebels are always treated like trash no matter the reason, and it's no different than what they did to your aunt." the boy said angrily
"I know alright? You don't have to remind me." Mirai snapped
"Obviously I do considering what you just said." the boy said as he rolled his eyes giving a signal to whisper
"But that was her own father!" Mirai whispered
"Just goes to show you what power does to people in a high position." the boy said quietly
"If that's the case I hope I never take on politics." Mirai whispered shaking her head
"You, and me both." the boy agreed
As the two young infiltrators were recapping about the public execution they just saw they decided to keep quiet as they navigated through the underground prison. Walking for what seemed like hours the boy raised his hand signaling Mirai to ready herself for battle. As the boy crept forward he immediately stopped once his nose picked up a familiar scent, and the groan of a woman. Slowly looking to his left he audibly gasped at what he saw.
It was a woman, in her late twenties maybe early thirties wearing ragged brown prison clothes, and looked like she was barely fed. She had what looked like light red hair borderline dark pink, but it was filled with dirt. Next to her lying on the ground was a girl around his age with the same light shade of red hair. She was maybe a few years younger, and she didn't look much better. The boy fell to his knees unable to keep the tears falling from his face.
"Who's there! I swear if you come near my daughter I'll...k-kid? Is that you?" the woman said softly as she saw the crying boy lift his hood off to show his face
"A-Auntie...it's me..." the boy choked stating his name causing the woman to shed tears now
"Oh Kami it is you! Emi, Emi wake up, look whose here." the woman said gently prodding the sleeping girl struggling to wake up
Struggle as she did once she saw who was on the other side of the bar she sprung up like new life was instilled in her. She got up, and cried his name as the boy confirmed it was him. The boy quickly unlocked the cage, and launched himself against the two girls both hugging him tightly.
As this scene played out Mirai didn't see the Demon Spawn of Konohagakure, she only saw a child weeping at the sight of people close to him. She wanted this to last longer, but she knew the mission and where she was so this couldn't last. She walked up to the cell tapping quietly on the bars getting the attention of those inside the cell.
Quickly being alert the woman stood up, and positioned herself in front of the children protecting them. Especially seeing the headband the teenage girl was wearing the woman was about to engage in a fight when the boy stood in between them. Obviously the woman was both upset, and confused.
"Kid? What the hell are you-"
"I know how this looks, believe me I know what they did to us, but she's trustworthy...for now at least. I asked her to come with me in order to leave that damn place, but right now you have to trust me Auntie, please. You too Emi-chan, please just trust me." the boy pleaded
Both mother, and daughter looked at the boy thinking what to do. The girl looked at her childhood friend, and saw in his eyes how much he changed...and not for the better. She saw the desperation, fleeting hope, and the loss of energy in those eyes. But whatever the boy had in his eyes, she still saw a tiny sliver of kindness in those same eyes of the boy she used to play with. Emi looked up to her mother tugging on her clothes nodding to say she trusted the boy.
"Ok kid, I'll trust you, but not her. You so much as breathe at me or my daughter the wrong way, and I'll take that headband of yours and shove it down your throat, and out your-"
"Auntie!" the boy shouted in embarrassment as the girl smiled at seeing her friend acting the same way she remembered
"Heh, still the same squeaky clean brat. Glad you're still you kiddo." the woman said ruffling the boy's head
"T-Thank you Auntie, oh, and I got something for you." the boy said nervously as he took something from a pouch of his that resembled a flute
"Heh, can't believe they didn't just smash the damn thing, thanks kid. Now, let's get moving. Emi, stay behind me. Kid, lead the way" the woman said taking leadership of the group
"Uh, ma'am?" Mirai said quietly
"What is it?" the woman snapped as Mirai flinched
"I was just wondering what do I call you?" Mirai said meekly
"We're not on a first name basis so just call me ma'am like you did before, but before you forget the name's Tayuya...Tayuya no Subaku, and this is my daughter Emi. Now, let's get moving." Tayuya said
"Right Auntie. Mirai, come on." The boy said nodding his head putting his hood back on catching Mirai off guard seeing as he never called her by her first name
"Yeah." Mirai said hoping this mission would turn out ok with the disired results...it wouldn't.
Land of Rice Paddies, Orochimaru's Lair
Right now Shintaro, Akihiko, and Rei much to her dismay were walking through the underground maze of caverns that was to be believed Orochimaru's hideout. Just as Shintaro had said he had released 20 or so Shadow Clone's surrounding the area writing the barrier seal with Jiraiya, and Anko standing in the middle of the 5 mile radius. Kakashi, and Itachi were standing by at the warehouse supposedly full of children.
The idea was that Shintaro would confirm whether or not Orochimaru would be there in the first place. If he wasn't Shintaro would investigate, and if he was Shintaro would use a signal to notify Jiraiya before teleporting him and Anko to face Orochimaru. Shintaro would then notify Kakashi, and Itachi to help out with exterminating Orochimaru while Shintaro would investigate what was left of the warehouse.
While Anko protested wanting to at least standby at the entrance of Orochimaru's Lair, but Shintaro had a solution to her problem while also satisfying Jiraiya as well. That being the chance to surprise the hell out of Orochimaru, and to do it in style with his plan.
Meanwhile when Shintaro was leading his team through the caverns, Kakashi, and Itachi were figuring out how to deal with the individuals holding the children captive.
Casually strolling like no one's business Shintaro's team A.K.A the Orochimaru Strike Team was walking through the dimly lit, damp caverns with Shintaro leading the two...well all but two were strolling through one of the halls like no one's business. The other was more worried about making sure she made it out alive in order to see her mother again.
As the Orochimaru Strike Team made their way inside their destination everyone was wondering how this battle was going to play out.
"So, let me get this straight. The three of us, a cat boy, mere human, and an inexperienced me are being sent to kill a ninja stronger than the one who imprisoned my mother?" Rei said plainly
"Yup." Shintaro replied
"And we're just walking into his lair?" Rei asked anxiously
"Probably." Shintaro confirmed
"Without any backup." Rei said dumbfounded
"That's right." Shintaro said cheerfully
"Ummm, I don't want to be a killjoy, but there's a certain word that fits this setting what is it? Oh right, it's called SUICIDAL!" Rei yelled at the top of her lungs
"Quit your whining bug bitch." Akihiko groaned
"Oh, sorry for being concerned with my own well being, and leaving my mother alone!" Rei retorted annoyed at Akihiko
"Apology rejected." Akihiko said with a smug grin
"WHAT?" Rei said even more annoyed with Akihiko
"You apologized, I rejected your ass." Akihiko explained
"That's not the point, it wasn't an actual apology!" Rei shouted
"I still reject it." Aki said offhandedly
"So does that mean by rejecting my fake apology therefore making it a real one? So in reality, you're accepting nothing aren't you?" Rei said with a snarky smile as Akihiko's eye twitched
"Damn bug bitch, I swear I'll-"
"Enough." Shintaro said raising his chakra pressure
"You're taking her side?" Akihiko grumbled
"No." Shintaro answered in a calm tone
"You're taking his side?" Rei said in shock
"No." Shintaro answered again in the same tone
"Then whose side are you on?" the two arguing youths asked getting in Shintaro's face
"The side that's going to get us out of here alive. Do you want in?" Shintaro said nonchalantly
"Obviously." Rei said without a beat
"Meh." Akihiko shrugged
"Then be quiet, this side doesn't argue. Besides, we're about to have company." Shintaro said seriously as he turned his head around
"What?" Rei said getting into a battle stance
"I can smell them...lots of them." Shintaro said as he turned his body preparing a few hand signs
"Lots of what?" Rei said uneasy
Rei got her answer in the form of a echoing sound of what sounded like a combination of rattling, hissing, and slithering heading towards their way. Deciding to make the threat visible to his companions Shintaro grabbed a flare he had from a pouch tied to his left leg. Throwing the flare down the hallway what looked like an endless wave of black venomous snakes hissing angrily at them.
"It seems we're surrounded." Aki said annoyed as the sound of invading snakes came the opposite way as well
"How many of these things are there?" Rei said turning her back opposite to Shintaro
"Rei, do you have an area of effect attack? Specifically one that spreads out in a cone fashion?"
"One comes to mind, yeah, but unless you plan on breathing poison I don't think it's a good idea because it lasts quiete a while. We do have to leave this way don't we? I'll be fine, and I could care less about cat boy but I'm gonna need you to teach me about the outside world."
"Don't worry I intend to, and don't worry about Aki. If things go bad to worse I'll blow a hole through the ceiling if I have to. Aki, you cool with that?"
"So long as I get to fight something other than these damn snakes I'll be content to die if I die today. Do as you will Shintaro."
"Alright, get in between Rei, and me. We're going to get rid of these damn snakes in one blow."
"Are you even sure that the bug bitch can keep her end of the bargain?"
"Gee thanks."
"I'm sure, I have complete faith in Rei. Alright, they're getting closer. Get ready!"
"Right!"
"One three we attack. 1...2...3!"
"Secret Technique: Poison Bog of Acid!"
"Ninja Art: Fire Style: Great Fire Annihilation!"
On one side there was a giant purple plume of poisonous smoke that came out of Rei's mouth that had an immediate effect on the snakes. Although, the poison itself didn't kill the slithering fiends the bog itself melted the snakes, and even parts of the cavern walls like acid.
While the other side a giant heat wave burned the snakes to ashes even melting the sides of the cave. The flames of the heat were so intense that Akihiko was sweating just by seeing the giant waves of flame.
"Oh dear god that taste so gross!" Rei said as she vomited her lunch
"I now hate...using...that move. Mother 'cough cough' always 'cough' said in the 'cough cough' pod that it makes your 'ack!' throat sore, or worse if you did it...the wrong way. Guess I 'cough cough cough' found out what worse is." Rei said gagging/coughing her lungs out
"Same here. My throat is dry as hell itself, but at least I know I've gotten better at chakra control. That move always used to drain me, but now it only took up about 10% percent of my chakra." Shintaro said taking a canteen of water out greedily drinking it
"10%? Damn, from the look of it that firestorm of yours looked like it would cost a hell of a lot more than that, and considering your age that technique is highly advanced." Rei admired as she recognized that technique
"Why thank you. I work hard on my weaker chakra natures, and I have to say that jutsu just showed me I've improved a lot. Anyways, let's get a move on, I'm sure they know we're here now as if they didn't already." Shintaro said as he put away his canteen
"So we're just gonna charge in there?" Akihiko asked awaiting his desired answer
"Yup, might as well. Aki you'll take point, Rei you handle the rear, and I'll, stay in the middle so that Aki can focus on finding any threats or hopefully Orochimaru himself with your nose. You'll also be in the best position to be prepared from the front to attack. You guys get that?" Shintaro said as he started into a run as Akihiko followed him
"Sure, lead the way. Might as well rush to our deaths at this point." Rei said shaking her head
"Same here, let's go already! I'm getting chills, and I like it!" Akihiko said with a wicked smile
"You would." Rei said annoyed at her cat/human companion
"No point in denying it, this is one battle I'm looking forward to." Akihiko acknowledged with a wicked chuckle
"Enough chit chat, we're going to pick up the pace." Shintaro said silencing the two for a moment
"Alright, let's go!" Shintaro said as he started to run into a sprint
"Right!" Akihiko said diving into a run on all fours taking the lead
"Lead the way, oh fearless leader. Ugh, we're gonna die aren't we?" Rei mumbled to herself
"No point in worrying about it now, it's as they say. Out of the frying pan, and into the fire!" Shintaro joked pulling Rei into a deeper worrisome mentality
"You know something Shintaro?" Akihiko asked
"What?" Shintaro asnwered
"I'm really starting to like you. Once this fight is done, and over with, mission results aside, you can consider me loyal till death." Akihiko said
"Ok? I appreciate the thought, but what brought this up?" Shintaro asked
"When you said you would bring me into battles after I allied myself with you I'd never would have dreamed after running for my life from a horde of zombies that I'd go face to face with a Sannin. I'm sure not everyday will be like this, but damn it all fights like these only come once in a lifetime." Akihiko said taking another whiff of his surroundings
"Well, don't plan on dying yet, plenty of good fights ahead of us." Shintaro said honestly
"Heh, I'm not stupid." Akihiko said cockily
"Last night's poker game suggest otherwise." Rei joked
"Oh, shut the hell up you bug bitch." Aki snorted
"Ignoring your asinine comments aside I have to agree with him. Though, I wouldn't go that far on the loyalty thing you have kept your promise to teach me about this world. Those books were both really...entertaining, and enlightening about how girls act in this world. Although, I don't really get what the whole deal is about periods, and why girls complain about them so much." Rei said confused
"Uh...where did you find out about that? I didn't give you any medical books." Shintaro said embarrassed at the subject he was suddenly given
"It was mentioned in the book about how to interact with teenagers, and how the subject is usually avoided in conversations with boys." Rei said simply
"Then why are you talking about it to us? Kind of an awkward time to mention this sort of thing." Shintaro asked as Rei shrugged
"I don't know. Like I said I don't get the reason about why they make a big deal about it, but the point is that he's right. You have a tendency for the short amount of time I've known you, albeit all of two days, to keep your promises. Keep it up, and maybe I'll devote myself to you like he did." Rei said sincerely
"Confessing your feelings already? Can't ya wait until he buys you dinner first...or you know, an actual body worth mating with? " Aki snickered as he dodged a swipe of Rei's long-ranged pincer attacks
"Oh shut the hell up! Good luck getting a date with that attitude, and perverted mouth of yours." Rei shouted annoyingly with a blush on her face
"Heh, you're just jealous of me." Akihiko said smugly
"Like hell I am!" Rei shouted
"Well, glad to see I'm leaving a good impression on the two of you. Now, as much as I would love to continue our heartfelt conversation I can sense the presence of someone up ahead." Shintaro said seriously as Akihiko took a sniff up ahead
"Yeah, I can too...there's two of them. One man, one woman, and both of them reek of death if that's possible." Akihiko said seriously as his face contorted from the smell
"A woman huh? Did Orochimaru recruit someone else besides Kabuto? I'm sure I took his key players away from him before things got ugly, was there someone I missed? It couldn't be her could it? No, she's barely a few years younger than me, and if Akihiko said they reek of death then that's a bad sign in it of itself."
"Strange though, if he could smell death on them, then why not something similar to snakes? Besides, there's only a few that fit that description...and if it's who I think it is...no, that's impossible. They haven't made contact with us for nearly 4 years now, I've made sure to cover our tracks, and I even killed those who would rat out on us. Has to be someone else...has to be." Shintaro thought desperately to himself
Running through the caves the Orochimaru Strike Team came up to two giant wooden doors standing 10 ft. tall that seemed to be the source of death that Akihiko sniffed out.
"Here we are. You guys ready?" Shintaro whispered as the two nodded their heads
"Ok, on three. 1...2...3!" Shintaro said kicking the door down
Kicking the doors open Shintaro jumped ahead with kunai in hand, Akihiko jumped with him to Shintaro's left crouching down with his claws and fangs out, and Rei jumped to Shintaro's right with a horde of insects flying around her buzzing intensely as her fingers were dripping with poison. However, what they saw was not what they expected. Instead of being confronted by who they were expecting, they were confronted by Shintaro's worst nightmare come to life.
"Well well well, I knew it was a good idea to stay here." a high pitched distorted voice said
"For once your hunches come true. Lord Kagaku-sama will be most pleased." a dark low pitched voice uttered quietly
"See, and they came during our business talk. How rude of them eh Shin-kun?" the high pitched voice asked giggling to herself
"Do not call me that Seikatsu. One more outburst like that, and I'll wring you're neck. Besides, I only sense these three children in front of us, it seems that Orochimaru will keep his side of the deal after all." the dark voice said a little bit surprised
What stood in front of Shintaro, and his friends were the two voices he'd had hoped to never hear again. They were both covered head to toe in black robes shadowing their faces and limbs, but they decided to lose the cloaks in order to properly fight.
The taller, bulkier one began first tossing his cloak aside revealing what he truly looked like. He was giant to say the least, standing 6'10 at least with a big chest, long legs, strong arms that rivaled the Raikage's, but kept the shape of slightly above average arms. His attire consisted of a skin tight bandages covered by ragged black kimono torn at the edges. He also had rusty chains wrapped around his entire body, but his skin was the most surprising factor of himself. It was pale white, almost sickly looking, and his face looked like he was to door to death itself. His face was emotionless, silver eyes lacking any life in them at all covered by the dirty, grease filled bangs of his black hair.
Lastly it seems that his weapon seemed to be a giant war maul with a hammer of stone wrapped in bone spikes, the staff itself holding the weapon together seemed to be wrapped in bandages with small spikes embedded from the top to the bottom, while the other end was an open human skull made of bone covered in red war paint with it's jaw open to the max with ragged pointed teeth sharp as a shark.
"It seems we're in for a fight. This shouldn't take more than a few minutes." Shin said in a dead tone grabbing his war maul with one hand, no change in his face as his hand made contact with his weapon that caused his hand to bleed
"Oh, it'll be much longer than that. Gotta have my fun somehow." the high pitched voice said as she ripped her cloak clean off its body
This time the figure proved to be a woman...at least that's what they hoped she was. She was definitely shorter than this "Shin" maybe 5'4, but with the figure of a swimsuit model. She was wearing barely wearing anything, but she didn't seem to care one bit. Her attire, or lack thereof, consisted of what looked like civilian clothing, but made for battle if that's possible. Skin tight shirt, and short shorts that barely went down anywhere near her knees and that was it. However, that wasn't the thing that set the three youths off, no it was her skin or rather...her skins.
Not one part of her body looked the same or was consistent in color. Her torso dark shade of red like it was stained with blood, left arm a dark tan with its hand a lighter shade, right arm a pale white with its hand an almost transparent shade of white, the top left leg dark-skinned like those in Kumo with the bottom a regular shade of tan, the right leg being completely a light brown shade, yet her face...it looked like it was split in two, both looking like they were not hers...stolen in fact, but the two faces looked like they belonged to both genders.
All of her limbs were stitched together too like some sock puppet, stitches were also all over her body, limbs, and even her face right down the middle. Her eyes were crazed, looking as if they were waiting for her to kill, waiting endlessly like they were tortured without seeing death. Her brown hair was wild, and all over the place, her left side all spiked up the right side facing let down freely like a pony tail let loose in the front.
Her whole body screamed like it was in torment, but she ignored it entirely. Her limbs were covered in razor sharp blades that twisted themselves around her arms like snakes just like her legs with the only difference being that the arm blades were clean smooth blades with the bottom being razors that looked like they were made for shredding flesh. She also had what was most probably her most effective weapon above all...her smile.
A dark, evil, sadistic smile that looked like she was enjoying every second of her life waiting for it's next kill. The wicked smile widened at the sight of the trembling girl staring into her eyes as her own eyes bore into her soul tormenting it with a single look.
"It seems they're afraid." Shin said slightly raising his head
"Told you, now...let's get this party started eh, Taro-kun?" Seikatsu said focusing her twisted laughter as Shintaro held his head down, his body shaking unable to stop
Above Ground, 3 miles to the West of Orochimaru's Lair
Currently Itachi, and Kakashi were wondering how they had gotten themselves into their current situation. During recon Itachi had discovered recent tracks leading to, and from the cave to the warehouse and back. Given how hidden the cave was in the first place as well as the tracks themselves that wouldn't have mattered to any passerby, but to someone looking for Orochimaru it was a sloppy mistake. Kakashi also reported that there were very well hidden ninja wire traps connected to paper bombs. There was also records of the occasional shadow passing by the supposed "empty" warehouse.
They both did well to hide their presence, at least they thought they were, but that mindset was crushed when suddenly attacked. If it wasn't for the intense blood lust coming their way as well as a psychotic war cry they would have been killed or seriously injured. As the two Konoha nin jumped down to what they thought was safety, their hopes were quickly crushed when greeted by what looked like...monsters.
The mob of attackers looked like they all craved blood, and were willing to do anything to stop it. They were all wearing ragged clothes, torn robes, and were all barefoot not that it mattered to them. Half of them looked like they were still human at least in the humanoid terms only they had a variety of strange black markings all over their bodies even covering their faces as well.
The majority of them shared common characteristics, that being a variety of different styled orange hair, they all shared the tall, large muscular body builds among both the men and women. The women in particular were even taller than Kakashi, and some of them were even more muscular too.
The more...monstrous half of the attackers were more vicious looking with completely dark skin, more wild orange hair, sharper canines, their iris's a pale yellow, sclera pure black, and their hands were covered in dry blood some more fresh than others. They all stared in unison at Itachi, who had his Sharingan activated studying his adversaries, and Kakashi who was already prepared with weapons in his hands.
"So, was this what you had in mind when sent on a mission to kill Orochimaru?" Kakashi said nonchalantly
"Not exactly, no." Itachi said calmly
"KILL KILL KILL!" one of the attackers yelled crazily
"KILL THE ONE-EYED MAN!" a woman barked
"Hey, what about him?" Kakashi said pointing to Itachi
"I WANT THE BLOOD OF THE LITTLE BOY!" a random female monster yelled as drool came from her mouth
"Charming. I was beginning to feel left out." Itachi droned as he rolled his eyes
"Well, let's get this over with. I count about...15 of them." Itachi said getting serious
"Here I thought we had the easier task." Itachi said drawing out his ninja sword
"Who knows, maybe this is easier compared to what were dealing with. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if something went wrong on Jiraiya-sama's side." Kakashi shrugged
"It's words like those that compromise missions such as these." Itachi sighed
"My bad." Kakashi said rubbing the back of his head
Just as they finished talking, a particular large man amongst the group of monsters who seemed to be the leader changed his arm into a deformed cannon of sorts.
"LET"S FEAAASSST!" the supposed leader of the group roared out as he charged at the two Konoha nin
"What the he-" Kakashi said surprised
"Look out!" Itachi yelled as the man drove his fist into the ground where Kakashi was missing him by an inch.
It wasn't too long after that the others behind the first monster to attack, and the battle went underway.
Just like Kakashi had said something was going wrong on Jiraiya's side of things. While Jiraiya was waiting for the signal with Anko who was like a kid on a massive sugar high twirling a kunai with her finger just to keep her occupied. As this was going on Jiraiya was awaiting for Shintaro's signal that would automatically switch positions between the two so that Jiraiya could face off with Orochimaru face to face. The wait however was...both aggravating, and enticing watching an energetic Anko walking around quickly in circles wearing her civilian clothing.
"Oh man oh man oh man! This is unlike anything I've ever felt before in my life! I feel like running! Do you want to go running Jiraiya-sama? Running, running, running everywhere!" Anko said hyper actively running around in circles around
"When Shintaro said that Anko would get jittery when doing I figured it would be nothing, but this... this is more than I thought how she would get." Jiraiya mentally groaned to himself
"Aw man I wanna do something! Something that involves moving! Something that uses energy really really fast. Do you know anything like that Jiraiya-sama?" Anko asked pushing her body close to Jiraiya
"Well..." Jiraiya thought to himself looking down at Anko
"Well, you can do squats if you want. I'm sure that'll keep you busy." Jiraiya said shaking his head off the blood rushing to his head
"Great idea! I'll do some right now!"
"Wonderful, she's as energetic as that nutball Guy." Jiraiya thought to himself as he face palmed himself
"Aaaand! 1, 2, 3, 4, 1! 1, 2, 3, 4, 2! 1, 2, 3, 4, 3!" Anko said enthusiastically doing squats as her tight revealing short shorts, and tight black shirt proved to be...interesting to watch
"Eh, I don't mind." Jiraiya said chuckling perversely as he reached for his pen and paper
As Jiraiya was...supervising Anko he felt a mysterious presence lurking about behind him almost...evil, and he's felt this presence before. Turning completely serious he put away his paper, and pen putting a hand on Anko's shoulder.
"Anko, it seems we have company." Jiraiya said seriously to Anko who managed to exert some self control, though she barely could contain herself
"What is it Jiraiya-sama?" Anko asked getting serious doing her best to contain her energy
"It seems we're in for a fight. Because I doubt you just came here to chat, isn't that right Orochimaru?" Jiraiya said turning around completely to see the pale Saninn standing with Kabuto next to him both smirking devilishly at Jiraiya
"Ah, so nice to see the bumbling fool Jiraiya, and my dear precious student Anko again. Such a touching reunion, nearly brings tears to my eyes."
"What the hell are you doing here?" Anko said yanking a kunai from her ninja pouch glaring at Orochimaru
"So, this is the famous Anko I've so much about. Your previous student who survived your cursed mark? I have to say I'm a bit disappointed." Kabuto said smugly pushing up his glasses
"Who asked you, you glasses wearing prick-wait...you're Kabuto aren't you?" Anko said glaring at Kabuto
"So, there was a survivor among that clan. I'd must admit I was sloppy in my investigation for those Fuma. I'd thought I tracked them all down considering how far some of them managed to get away. Tell me, would you be so kind as to tell me who survived?" Kabuto asked Anko with an evil smirk on his face
"Like hell I'm gonna tell you anything. I see it didn't take you long to replace me, I guess you really do have a thing for kids you sick freak." Anko said
"Are you reducing yourself to such poor taunts my dear Anko? I thought I taught you better than that, but I will admit, there is something different about you."
"Tch! Just means your lessons didn't stick to me, and to be honest I am both glad they didn't and some of them did. I don't need all your twisted mentality tricks that you tried to drill into me which by the way are coming back to me." Anko said in a bittersweet fashion which threw Orochimaru's grin off
"What are you talking about?" Orochimaru asked
"What, ticked off that I'm moving on without you? I think we can both agree that the time for talking is over. Now d-"
"Not so fast Anko. What I want to know is this. If you're here right now, then whose in your hideout?" Jiraiya said narrowing his eyes causing Orochimaru to chuckle
"Oh that? I really mustn't say, but I'll allow you this little bit of information before you die. That little boy, Shintaro I think his name is, as interesting he might be is going to die today, and is most certainly in for a surprise from...an old friend of his." Orochimaru said cryptically
"Damn it. So you knew we were coming all this time huh?" Jiraiya said not really surprised
"Should that really be the question you should be asking me Jiraiya? I thought that maybe with age you would gain some wisdom ever since you claimed to be a Sage, but it seems you've only attained a new level of foolishness. Now, as much as I would love to continue our conversation, I believe my former student has already said what he all have in mind." Orochimaru said with a confident smirk
"That is going to be the one and only thing we'll agree on today." Anko said lowering her head while raising her bloodlust
"My dear Anko, do you honestly believe you have a chance?" Orochimaru said chuckling at Anko's rage
"Hell yeah I do! But first things first." Anko said before disappearing in a flash surprising all three present punching Kabuto square in the face breaking his glasses and possibly his nose as well as a few teeth launching him at least 20 to 30 ft. away
"That's for the Fuma clan you glasses wearing prick!" Anko said before executing her next attack shocking Orochimaru to a standstill for a momentary pause to think
"When did Anko-" but he didn't get to react much less think as Anko roundhouse kicked Orochimaru in the jaw launching him just almost as far as she did with Kabuto
"And that's the just the beginning for you asshole!" Anko said balling her fist
"Anko!" Jiraiya called out
"The hell is up with her face-no, focus on the opening she gave you." Jiraiya thought to himself
"Yeah?" Anko said not taking her eyes off Jiraiya
"For now go after Kabuto, take him alive if you can, but leave Orochimaru to me. Once you finish off Kabuto go see if Shintaro could use some help. Don't argue with me on this. Right now Shintaro, and his friends safety is what matters, once they're safe you can come back to help. And besides..." Jiraiya said as he made a few hand signs slamming his palm on the open scroll laying beneath his feet activating the sealing barrier entrapping everyone within the 5 mile radius.
"He isn't going anywhere, no one is." Jiraiya said dead serious
"Now all I need to do is to buy some time in order for this thing to properly close itself."
"What is this?" Orochimaru thought to himself looking up at the sky
"Now then, get a move on, and deal with Kabuto." Jiraiya said firmly not giving Anko a chance to refuse
"I...fine." Anko sighed as she turned to the direction she flew Kabuto in
"Not so fast dear Anko, I-"
"You can wait for your turn for me to kick your ass! For now, I'm gonna make quick work of of my replacement." Anko yelled at Orochimaru as Jiraiya jumped next to Anko facing Orochimaru
"Just watch yourself." Jiraiya warned
"I will Jiraiya-sama, just make sure you save some of his scaly ass for me to kick around." Anko said
"No promises, but I'll see what I can do." Jiraiya said in a lighter tone
"Right. Now...where were we?" Anko said smirking confidently looking to the direction of where Kabuto lay
"I'd be careful if I were you dear Anko. Kabuto was only taken surprise by..." Orochimaru said as Anko decided to say one last thing to Orochimaru
"Will you just SHUT UP!" Anko yelled at Orochimaru showing her former sensei her face.
She was enraged to say the least, but what was more surprising to Orochimaru was what was on her face. Strange sealing marks were spread out across her face like the curse mark she had would do, only these were patterned like some animals viscous claw marks, and were colored a deep shade of red like blood was stained on her face. Her eyes also possessed a sense of ferocity common in beasts as her dark brown pupils changed into vertical slits.
"My dear Anko, what has become of you? I thought you wanted to resist my gift to you, but it seems you've embraced it fully. Though I'd never have imagined my curse mark would go this far." Orochimaru said shaking his head wondering why he left her
"This isn't your curse mark that's doing this you wretched snake. I got rid of that monstrosity not too long ago actually, but that hardly matters now. I'm done talking to you, and I'm going to use this new seal of mine to wipe the floor with your new pet." Anko said as she charged towards Kabuto's direction
"Looks like it's just you, and me Orochimaru."
"Yes, so it seems, but I'm afraid this little reunion of ours will have to be cut short. I may have no idea what this seal is or how it works, but I have a feeling once I kill you it will all disappear. Two birds with one stone as they say." Orochimaru said with a wicked grin
"My thoughts exactly." Jiraiya said narrowing his eyes already preparing a rasengan
Back home in Konoha things were getting...lively. After Ayano had woken up from using her jutsu Tsunade was already explaining her decision regarding Hiromi's education. To say Hiromi was upset was an understatement, constantly begging Tsunade to reconsider, but Tsunade wouldn't budge. Before Hiromi could protest Tsunade asked why she even wanted to attend the Academy when Shintaro doesn't even trust Konoha.
Hiromi was hesitant to answer, but her future depended on it. Hiromi told Tsunade what she knew about her parents, at least what Shintaro told her about them, and their love for Konoha. Hiromi wished, rather hoped that if she became a shinobi of Konoha they would hopefully come for her, accept her...love her. So again Hiromi begged Tsunade to reconsider her decision about Hiromi's education, promising to do better the next time.
Tsunade saw the resolve in the girls eyes, but she also saw desperation and fear hidden behind that resolve as well. Tsunade wondered if this girl could back up what she talked, and decided to test her resolve, so Tsunade decided to place a bet with the girl. If Hiromi could go one more day at that school without having to leave early due to her "health issues" that Tsunade had listed as well as not having any more breakdowns or visits from "her brother" either. IF Hiromi could pull that off Tsunade would let her attend the Academy as long as she still went to therapy after school, but if she couldn't then Hiromi would go with Tsunade's plan no objections.
Before Ayano had a chance to protest as she saw Hiromi shaking at the idea of losing, but Hiromi quickly accepted the deal. Tsunade sighed thinking how low has she gotten to the point of betting against a 5 year old, but at least this way if she's proven wrong the girl would most certainly grow into a strong woman. Either way it was settled, and the girl had a lot to prove to Tsunade if she was going to be her student. Speaking of that Tsunade had decided to give a quick check on Hiromi's abilities as well as Ayano's.
Right now, after a busy day of training, and shopping everyone was surprised to see Hiromi home earlier than they expected. Seeing the look on her face they could imagine the reason why, and decided to keep their mouths shut about it for the time being. After waiting around dinner time Hiromi decided to quickly eat, and go to bed with Ayano following her not wanting to risk what happened earlier this morning. The kids still wanting an explanation Kushina decided to stay, and explain everything to everyone including her son that had happened this morning to them from what she had learned.
"What do you mean Hiromi might not be going to school anymore?" Fu yelled
"Yeah mom, why does Hiromi have to stop going to school?" Naruto asked his mother
"It's like I said Fu, Naruto. Tsunade did a checkup on Hiromi, and because of what happened this morning she thought it'd be best for her to study privately with Shizune, but because of...sympathy I imagine, or something else whatever it may be Tsunade chose to let it be on a bet. If Hiromi can keep her head together for one day without having a repeat of today then she'll be fine, but if she can't well...let's just hope Hiromi will do fine."
"This is bullcrap." Suigetsu said crossing his arms
"You said it." Naruto agreed
"Guys, she had a rough first day, remember?" Jugo said gently trying to calm them down
"Yeah, and I remember how all of you jerks wouldn't let me hunt down those assholes." Fu grumbled
"Language Fu." Haku lectured as Fu pouted
"That's because they were already beaten up Fu." Jugo replied
"Yeah right, just because they had a kiddy brawl against each other doesn't mean they actually fought each other." Suigetsu growled
"Maybe that's a good thing." Jugo answered
"You mean not paying back the jerks who shut down Hiromi's mind is a good thing?" Fu growled
"I uh..." Jugo said at a loss for words
"What he means is that nothing will be solved from brutalizing 5 year olds." Haku said saving Jugo
"Other than venting Fu-chan's frustration." Kimimaro joked stoically with a small smile
"Meanies." Fu pouted
"Anyways, does this mean you're not going to school Fu?" Guren asked
"Yeah, but given that tomorrow is Friday leading into the weekend I figured I might as well skip it, and just start next week. But I'm sure that Hiromi will try that bet thing with that old Tsunade lady tomorrow, so I might as well go tomorrow." Fu sighed
"Does that mean your paperwork went through Fu?" Jugo asked
"Yeah, just went to see that old man about it today after training, and told me to go to the academy soon if I want to be a ninja."
"So you really going to school Fu?" Naruto asked gleefully
"Yup, but I'm gonna find the jerks who bullied Hiromi and really give them a beatdown." Fu said crashing her fist together cracking her knuckles
"Don't worry, I'll be right behind you Fu, and I'll get Ino to help too!" Naruto said cheering Fu on
"All right! I got back up!" Fu said cheerfully
"Naruto, Fu, while I understand your feelings about this provoking a fight will only cause trouble. Take it from me who was the Queen of Fighting back in my Academy days. If they gang up on Hiromi then that's a different story, but starting a fight for no reason will only make you jerk bullies. Do you two want to be known as jerk bullies?" Kushina chided as Fu pouted in defeat
"No." Fu grumbled
"But I'm still going to be on the lookout for them, and if they cause trouble I'm gonna give it back to them twice as hard!" Fu declared jumping on top her chair
"I'm right behind you Fu!" Naruto declared as well
"Just try not to get expelled on your first day Fu, and that includes you too Naruto." Kushina sighed
"Sure, mom." Naruto said a bit embarrassed
"But if you get thrown out for defending a friend in trouble...I'm going to remind those idiots why I was named the Red-Hot Habenero." Kushina said with her face turning angry as her hair rose considerably with her aura the equal of her face cracking her own knuckles freaking everyone present
"Eheheh...thanks mom." Naruto said a bit nervous
"Thank you sweetie." Kushina said calming down her aura
"You're mom's really scary you know that?" Suigetsu whispered frightfully to Naruto
"Yeah, but...I don't really care. She's my mom, and I love her." Naruto whispered back with a goofy smile on his face
"Momma's boy." Suigetsu joked elbowing Naruto's side gently
"Pfft, whatever." Naruto said brushing Suigetsu's words aside
"Eh, like I care about being expelled. I can get all my training from Shintaro or Kimimaro, and Ayano's already teaching me how to read and write. Besides, It's not like I'm giddy to become a ninja here you know." Fu grumbled
"Well, you're the only one of us who's technically a part of Konoha now besides the others who went to their clans I mean. You know, since they paid for you and all." Suigetsu mentioned as Fu rolled her eyes
"Like I care. Shintaro said that if Konoha plans on using me as a weapon, and only a weapon he'll make sure they regret it. Remember when Kumo found out I was a jinchuuriki?" Fu asked with a winning smirk
"I don't, I wasn't there dummy." Suigetsu droned
"Wait a minute! You were caught by Kumogakure as a jinchuuriki? How'd you escape, those hard headed as-I mean jerks?"
"Ahem. Perhaps I should explain this one to you Ms. Uzumaki." Haku said getting up from his seat with a cup of tea
"Tea?"
"Yes please, thank you Haku."
"You're welcome, Ms. Uzumaki."
"So, what happened with you kids?"
"Well, as you probably are aware of from Shintaro-san or some other source of information, we've been on the run from a variety of evil people. The reasons still elude us, but just about everyone has been after us up to this point. Bandits, groups of mercenaries, bounty hunters, missing-nin hoping to win back their village, and even official hunter nin from 3 of the 5 Great Nations. The only one who hasn't sent any forces against us is the Land of the Wind, but I have a feeling that's because we haven't been there yet."
"Yeah, but who'd want to visit that sun-dried wasteland anyways? All that heat is bad for my skin, and my hair, ugh, forget it. I'm glad we never went to Sunagakure." Guren mumbled
"Yes, Suna never was an ideal place for us a group of children to rest. We visited the borders of the Land of Wind on occasion, but only to stock up on supplies. Anyways, to avoid being caught Shintaro-san focused on travelling in an erratic fashion, never staying one place too long moving to the next town or small village that Shintaro-san selected for us to take refuge in." Haku explained as everyone save for Naruto knew he was talking about
"Basically, we moved around a lot, and we went all over the place." Suigetsu boringly simplified as Naruto inner self went "Oh"
"Yes...thank you Suigetsu." Haku said with a strained smile
"It's what I'm here for." Suigetsu said with an knowing face that he annoyed him
"Yes, with that simplification Suigetsu so...kindly provided we hardly ever stayed in one place." Haku sighed heavily
"Oh? Where'd you kids go if I may ask?" Kushina asked causing Guren to interrupt Haku talking though he didn't seem to mind
"Oh we went everywhere! The peaceful forests in the Land of Fire, the quiet mountains in the Land of Earth, the chilling snow with the occasional resorts in the Land of Iron, the beaches-oh the beaches! I always loved it when we were close enough to visit the beaches, especially that one time we visited the Land of the Moon." Guren described dreamily as she sighed in wonder of the memories she was reliving
"L-Land of the Moon? How'd you end up there!? That place is a tourist dream, and an expensive one at that. What were you doing there in the first place?" Kushina said shocked as she turned a bit jealous of these kids visiting a place she wanted to go with her late husband
"Well, during our travels Shintaro-san decided to give us a choice between visiting a beach in the Land of Water or a Ski Resort in the Land of Lightening." Haku said
"I wanted to do some training in the snow, but no we just had to visit the sun again." Genyumaru complained
"Oh, shut it. We put it to a vote, and that's where we went." Guren said as Genyumaru snorted
"Some choice. I'd go for the beach easily, but a Ski Resort would be nice to go." Kushina thought to herself
"Obviously we went to the beach so we high-tailed it, and before we got there we stayed at a tourist city. Oh sorry, Haku-kun would you like to continue the story?" Guren asked a blushing Haku
"I have no quarrel with you finishing the story Guren-chan." Haku said covering his blush with a cough
"Nah, it's ok. You can take it from here, you have a better memory than I do anyways, I only remember the fun stuff." Guren insisted waving off Haku's offer
"Well, if you insist Guren-chan." Haku said still hiding his blush with his fist
"Oh, just kiss already you two! Enough with the puppy-yikes!" Suigetsu said ducking from a few crystal kunai aimed next to his head
"What was that fish boy?" Guren said in a deadly tone keeping her smile
"N-Nothing! C-Continue with the story." Suigetsu said poking his head out to see if it was safe
"I see that girl knows how to use her Crystal Style well, and she's so young too. Man, did I fall asleep during a powerhouse surge or something?" Kushina thought to herself
"Thank you Guren-chan, Suigetsu. Now, while eating at a family restaurant Shintaro-san noticed a large parade going on across the street for a royal prince touring the Elemental Nations, and noticed the lack of guards present. That was when the royal carriage was about to be robbed by fake guards that were masquerading as their bodyguards. Shintaro-san stepped in, and apprehended the criminals with little casualties."
"The Prince was most thankful, and rewarded Shintaro immensely for his bravery. Shintaro-san saw an opportunity in this, and offered his services of protection until the end of his tour. The Prince agreed to take all of us for the time being, and so Shintaro-san along with the rest of us protected the Prince until his return trip to the Land of the Moon, even after that as well." Haku said plainly
"You kids did all that? How long ago was this?" Kushina asked
"Earlier this year actually, around February if I'm not mistaken. Not the ideal time to visit the Land of the Moon, but it was still warm enough to enjoy the sights." Kimimaro answered stoically
"Exactly. As it turns out the Prince of the Land of the Moon was taking his girlfriend on a tour of the Elemental Nations, but she didn't seem to happy with him for whatever reason." Jugo said
"Well duh, that guy good looking as he was kept trying to buy her love. Prince or no Prince she was smart enough to back out of that relationship when it was going nowhere, but then again he did manage to rub two brain cells together. Although, that was mainly because of Shintaro, and us girls helping the poor lug." Guren said with womanly pride
"Yes, Michiru-sama was a most...hard-headed individual when it came to the feelings of the heart." Haku said politely
"So, you guys helped the Prince of the Land of the Moon with his love life huh? That must've been interesting." Kushina commented
"Yeah, but it was worth it once we attended the wedding of those two." Fu sighed happily remembering that day
"Ugh, don't remind me. I hated all that wedding crap, the only good thing to come out of it was the food." Suigetsu groaned
"Oh shut up, fish head!" Fu said sticking out her tongue
"Anyways, the Prince offered us refuge in his palace, we stayed there for a few months, and rested easy in King-like luxury. During our stay Shintaro-san continued his bodyguard duties even though technically he was relieved of them, but thankfully because of Shintaro-san's investigation of the staff he discovered corruption within the royal guard resulting in their imprisonment."
"Again Shintaro-san was rewarded only this time he received a title from the King himself, as well as a large monetary reward, full citizenship to the Land of the Moon, full-access to the Palace itself, and was offered a position in the royal guard. However, Shintaro-san politely refused the job, stating our position in the hopes of gaining his understanding. The King understood, and gave us passage back to the 5 Great Nations. Before we left the King gave Shintaro his word that if he needed anything all he would need to do is ask." Haku said with some amazement realizing what he just listed
"Whoa...I didn't get half of that, but Shintaro sounds awesome!" Naruto said in wonder
"Shintaro...to gain all that, and refuse the King of the Land of the Moon himself. He probably thought it wasn't safe enough, and decided that a Hidden Village would be safe to protect him from...whoever is chasing them. Still...he has a favor from the King, and it's from a wealthy, if not THE wealthiest Land of them all. This kid is seriously like Jiyu, having the ability to gain friends in high places is definitely something he got from Jiyu. This kid is someone to look out for." Kushina thought to herself as her opinion of Shintaro shifted again just like it has since she met him
"Wow, sounds like you kids had a good time in the Land of the Moon." Kushina said with a smile
"Yes, that place was most enjoyable compared to Amegakure." Jugo said as everyone who had been there groaned
"I know right, that dump was always raining, and that Hanzo guy was creepy looking at all of us. Though, that Konan lady was pretty nice, and that Yahiko guy was cute. It's a shame he's old enough to be my dad, but at least he's normal to talk to unlike that red-head Nagato guy always skulking in the corner. Seriously, something about him just bugged me." Guren said shivering at the memory
"Sounds like Jiraiya's students from the Third Great War. Glad to hear that they're doing ok, and it seems that Ame hasn't changed either with that suspicious as hell Hanzo of the Salamander." Kushina thought warmly at hearing the status of her husbands sibling students
"You guys been to Ame?" Kushina asked
"It was for a short time, but yes. Shintaro-san wanted that to see if the secrecy of Amegakure would prove suitable as a haven for us." Kimimaro explained
"Long story short, it was hell living there, we hated it, Hanzo was a jerk, and we left." Guren grumbled
"Ok...short, but to the point. So, how'd you guys end up in Kumo?" Kushina asked trying to shift the conversation back to topic
"That was hidden village #3, right after Kiri, and Ame we tried Kumo to see if it wasn't going to be as bad as the others...it was." Guren said gravely worrying Kushina
"Nothing serious happened there I hoped. Did you kids make it out ok?"
"Yes, but perhaps Fu would like to explain this part of the story?" Haku asked gently as Fu sheepishly smiled before dawning an ashamed look
"Ehehe, sure Haku. Well...after some grown ups were...beating on some orphans I got really mad with Choumei's power, and nearly...killed them before Shintaro managed to stop me." Fu said as her body started to slightly shake
"Fu." Kimimaro said gently calming her down
"Sounds like they got what they deserved." Suigetsu mumbled to himself
"Suigetsu." Haku said firmly
"Sorry, continue moss head." Suigetsu groaned
"Stupid boy, anyways, once the Raikage found out who I was he demanded I stay once he captured all of us serving as his ninja. Shintaro said no, but all that did was make the Raikage mad so he separated us by force. After being torn away from everybody Shintaro just told me to wait for him until he gets back. I thought we were done for with the rest of my life being stuck in a jail cell, and scared out of my mind...I really thought I was going to be alone again." Fu said as her eyes started to get misty
"Kumo bastards, treating that poor girl like that just because she refused to be their Jinchuuriki, when they already have two of them." Kushina thought in disgust
"They stripped me of Choumei's chakra with a seal, and used chakra cuffs to tie my hands behind my back feeding me the bare minimum of food/water until I chose to serve Kumogakure. After a few days had passed by I thought Shintaro was dead, but that was when I saw a huge explosion out of my cell from the Raikage Tower." Fu said with a small smile wiping her eyes
"An explosion?" Kushina asked
"What's that?" Naruto asked confused as Kushina decided to be a fun mom right now
"You know those things that go BOOM Naruto?" Kushina said moving her hands in a dramatic fashion
"Yeah?" Naruto said getting the idea
"That's what Fu is talking about." Kushina explained
"Oh, thanks mom." Naruto said in understanding
"You're welcome sweetie. Sorry Fu, please continue." Kushina said with a heartfelt smile
"Yeah, anyways Shintaro had somehow managed to detonate it remotely from his cell. Then one after another more and more explosions were detonated throughout Kumo. The ninja barracks, their Anbu headquarters were blown to bits, even desolated parts of civilian territory were exposed to explosions. People then started to scream about a bunch of giant snakes running through the village, and some of them were bigger than this hotel! Then a huge black smokescreen began covering the top of Kumo even blocking out the sun. To say the Kumo ninja were scared is not even close, and all I could think of is that Shintaro was coming for me." Fu said in an estatic tone as Kushina's eyes widen at every description Fu listed
"He did all of that to the secondstrongest Hidden Village in the 5 Great Nations?" Kushina thought to herself
"Dang, Shintaro did all that?" Naruto said in surprise as Fu's smile grew wider
"OH, I'm not even done. After about an hour my guards decided to leave me in my cell, and it wasn't long after that I heard their screams fill the hall. More guards went to investigate, but they screamed as well. Shintaro then came by to my cell ripping the bars with his bare hands, and I could tell he was mad. He calmed himself down when he talked to me, but I could still tell he was mad." Fu said calming down her tone remembering how he was at that moment
"What about everyone else? Where was Shusuke, Ayano, Katusmi, or hell Hiromi. I'm pretty sure they weren't on the battlefield with him." Suigetsu asked getting into the story
"He teleported them away with some seal of his, but it tired him out a lot. Then out of nowhere a hole was made at the back of my cell from a giant fist from the Raikage himself with an army of ninja behind him. He ripped the wall apart like it was paper, and he was more mad than Shintaro was. I was scared out of my mind, but Shintaro stood in front of me protecting me from everyone. The Raikage kept yelling, and I was so scared I couldn't understand what he was talking about." Fu said now talking like a storyteller
"What did Shintaro do?" Kushina asked in suspense
"Yeah tell us!" Naruto said in excitement
"Don't leave us hanging moss head!" Suigetsu said in equal amount of excitement
"After about a few minutes of talking back and forth the Raikage had enough, and punched Shintaro straight in the face...but Shintaro didn't even budge an inch." Fu said dramatically as Kushina, Naruto, and Suigetsu who'd have never heard the story all had their jaws dropped to the floor
"Instead he pulled back his right arm that for some reason was glowing blue with lighting, and punched the Raikage in his big, mean, stupid face so fast not even the Raikage saw it coming. Shintaro sent him flying back into his army, grabbed me with his left arm, and we teleported out of there 20 miles from Kumo in some random cave with everyone else." Fu said as an unknown guest was inadvertently eavesdropping
"Wait a minute...did I hear that right? Did Shintaro really-"
"Holy crap! He punched the strongest ninja in Kumo in the face after he took one of his punches head on? That's AWESOME!" Naruto said bursting with excitement
"I know right! He's super awesome! I bet you anything that if he wanted to stay in any hidden village, he would become Kage in 10 years flat! Maybe faster!" Fu said jumping on her chair
"But...how?" Kushina said still not getting over what she just heard
"Yeah, from what you told us Shintaro should be a stain on the wall." Suigetsu said as he calmed down thinking about the situation
"I wondered about that too...that is until I calmed down enough to notice that Shintaro was covered in blood, and his right arm was barely hanging from his shoulder with most of it's skin being burnt off. Ayano noticed it first, but failed to get to Shintaro as he collapsed on the ground unconscious." Fu said sadly as her voice didn't change tone as she started to cry leaving Guren to come in to explain the rest
"He was like that for 3 days, nearly dying of blood loss, and chakra exhaustion. There were times where his heart stopped, and we kept freaking out whether he was going to die. Thankfully he pulled through, but couldn't move for about two days. I remember Hiromi, and Ayano crying their eyes out never leaving his side until he recovered." Guren said wiping away some of Fu's tears
"Even with that mask on I can tell he was smiling, and laughed off the whole thing trying to put us at ease. After that we were hunted by Kumo hunter-nin for weeks, and Shintaro kept beating them up or "took care of it" as he would always say...I'm not dumb you know, I knew what he was talking about." Fu said quietly as she hugged her knees
"What do you mean Fu?" Naruto asked not getting it triggering Kushina's aggresive protective motherly side
"Naruto." Kushina said firmly
"Y-Yeah, mom?" Naruto said a bit scared thinking he upset his mother
"Leave it be for now. You don't need to understand what Fu is talking about right now, but know that Shintaro did what he had to in order to keep Fu safe. Ok?" Kushina said calmly
"Ok, mom." Naruto said a bit sullen
"I'm not mad at you Naruto, it's just that Fu...has been exposed to a lot of things a kid shouldn't have, and I'm not exposing them to you either Naruto. I'll tell you when you're older ok?" Kushina said softly rubbing her son's back for comfort
"Ok." Naruto said with a small smile
"Thank you Naruto. Well, after hearing all that I can see you kids have truly been through a lot." Kushina said truthfully
"Yes, it goes without saying that we're close." Kimimaro said for once in a tone that wasn't stoic
"Friends until the day we die." Jugo said
"Never letting each other go." Fu said happily
"Protecting each other, from everyone, the whole world if need be." Haku said seriously
"Any chumps that mess with us is gonna regret it, village or not we don't care." Genyumaru said cracking his knuckles
"We are friends." Jugo said genuinely
"We are family." Fu said seriously
"We are nakama." The kids said with a genuine warmth
"And we're not going to stand for betrayal from another village." Kimimaro said harshly shifting his eyes towards Kushina
"Kimimaro, enough. Forgive the harsh tone Ms. Uzumaki, as kind as you are it's the village's safety, intentions, and trustworthiness we're testing. We've seen what the hidden village's are capable of, but this one has proved to be different...slightly." Haku said carefully
"We can see why Shintaro hardly ever went near one of these. Especially after Kiri." Genyumaru grumbled
"With all the jerks here, the overpriced knick knacks, and idiotic meanies at that council it's a wonder this village is still running. How can you guys stand to live here?" Fu asked Kushina
"Well, I can see why you would think that, and to be honest I don't blame you." an old voice said calmly
"Hiruzen? What are you doing here?" Kushina asked surprised
"I came in to see how Shintaro's sister was doing, I heard the news." Hiruzen said sympathetically
"Yeah, and that old Tsunade lady thinks Hiromi can't go to school. But I'm gonna go tomorrow, and beat up anyone who picks on her." Fu said determined
"Tsunade is a fine medical ninja, and is only doing things to help Hiromi. You children have gone through a lot together, and I'm certain that in time you'll only grow closer. Fu, even though you're technically part of Konoha there is no need for you to feel pressure of becoming a ninja. You have my word as Hokage that this village won't exploit you as a jinchuuriki, and if any of you wish to join Konoha I will extend that promise to you as well. Even if you choose not to join to Konoha I will not hold it against you, the "idiotic meanies" may have another point of view, but they'll be reminded that I'm Hokage not them." Hiruzen said firmly take a whiff from his pipe
"That's a big promise, can you back it up old man?" Suigetsu asked skeptically
"Suigetsu! Forgive him Hokage-sama, he's still a child learning his manners, though he seems to forgets the consequences of who he talks to." Haku said glaring at Suigetsu as Hiruzen merely laughed it off
"It's quite alright. For such a young child he's brimming with skepticism, and energy. Both are qualities a shinobi should posses. To answer your question...Suigetsu was it?" Hiruzen asked
"Yeah, Suigetsu Hozuki of the Hozuki clan, you might've heard of my big brother Mangetsu." Suigetsu said with a crooked smile
"The one who mastered all 7 Ninja Swords of the Mist?" Hiruzen asked
"Yup, I'm gonna beat him by finding all 7 blades, and I'm going to make my own 7 Ninja Swordsman of the Mist being their leader. I think I'm gonna have to rethink the name, but I'm sure it'll be badass." Suigetsu said with a winning smirk
"I see, such an enormous goal for a young one such as you." Hiruzen stated with a smile
"Hey! Just wait till I'm older! I'll be the best damn swordsman in all the 5 Great Nations." Suigetsu said standing up pointing at Hiruzen
"Knock it off! Learn to respect your elders already!" Guren said knocking Suigetsu off his figurative high horse
"I'm sure you will, with devotion like that you're goal will surely come to you. Now, about my promise, yes I intend to keep it. You can hold me to that, and I do my best to keep my word." Hiruzen stated in a Hokage-like stance
"Ok fine, I'll believe you...for now. Anyways, you probably heard our stories about where we've been, and how awesome Shintaro is." Suigetsu said with a smug smile on his face
"Yes, it's unheard of to hear of a child to go head to head with a Kage, much less sucker punch one." Hiruzen said calmly
"That's because Shintaro's awesome! No matter what opponent he's facing Shintaro's always calm, collected, and doesn't let anything get to him. Because he's the strongest person I know." Fu said sincerely as a blush came to her face remembering what the clone said to her yesterday
Back with Shintaro
"It's them...it's really them. The one's who killed them all, the one's who hunted us down relentlessly, the reasons why my friends are dead. There's only one thing, and one thing only that I can do right now." Shintaro thought to himself seriously
Filling with a furious rage, killer intent rising with every second, bloodlust getting stronger, and a certain power he kept buried within himself rising from within himself. A power his uncle knew would cause him to act recklessly. Chakra was seething from Shintaro's body, turning red in an instant, boiling itself like it was alive, and Rei and Akihiko was starting to get nervous with him.
"Well well, looks like someone's a teensy weensy bit mad."
"Uh, Shintaro?" Rei said nervously
"What's the plan here?" Aki grumbled
"Kit! Run n-"
"I'll...KILL...YOOOOUUUU!" Shintaro shouted ferally as a wave of chakra exploded from his body blowing Rei, and Aki back from where they stood while the two in front of him stood unaffected
"Prepare yourself Seikatsu." Shin said raising his weapon in a defensive position
"This is gonna be fun." Seikatsu said licking her lips in anticipation