Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto
A/N: Gah, I guess I left the prologue hanging for a bit longer than I wanted to. Even if this is my side project, I had meant to give it a little more attention. Regardless, I am pleased and thankful for the strong response the story has gotten even though I only had the prologue posted.
I worked my hardest on this chapter since this chapter is setting the basis for the beginning of things. I won't prolong getting the containers over a span of ten chapters, no, all of them are going to be brought together as quickly as possible. This chapter will show Yagura gathering them all up. I really enjoyed writing it and was very pleased with the end result.
And as to be fair, I'm going to give you all a general idea of what the story will be like. Naruto will still be the main protagonist, but the other containers will get their fair share of spotlight. All the containers have their own personal problems and burdens that will be addressed and revealed as the story goes on. For now, a quick synopsis of the jinchurikis:
Naruto Uzumaki: Age 7 (turning 8), his personality is the same as in the manga/anime. Happy go lucky kid, if somewhat naïve.
Killer Bee: Age 14, personality is the same as in manga/anime. He wants to gain acknowledgement from his village on his own.
Fu: Age 7, she's a headstrong, tough if somewhat arrogant girl with a short temper. She's blunt about her opinions and hates people because of how they treat her. Like Han, she trusts no one.
Utakata: Age 13, same in the anime. He's got a cool, careless demeanor and prefers to keep to himself. Kinda lazy too.
Han: Age 17, hates humanity and loathes pretty much everyone for how he was treated. He's cold, looks out for himself, and his responses usually consist of insults or harsh words.
Roshi: Age 39, a veteran ninja who wants to better understand and control his demon. He's a kind old man, enjoys drinking, and is interested by various things.
Yagura: Age 25, has a seemingly cold personality, but he's a nice guy. Still, he doesn't trust a whole lot of people and has somewhat harsh methods for keeping peace in Kiri.
Yugito: Age 8, a generally sweet girl who tries her hardest and wants to get stronger. Like Bee, she wants to get respect from her village and looks up to the Hachibi host.
Gaara: Age 6, personality is same as manga/anime. Though, we won't see much of Crazy Gaara.
Ages will change as time moves forward and together their mindsets will change. This story will be about the jinchuriki working together and filling the void each of them have in their hearts, forging iron bonds between them that will make them closer than family. Anyway, you've waited long enough and I'm done talking. Enjoy.
Nine Hosts
Sunagakure, the village hidden in the sand, was one of the five great ninja villages of the land. Everyone acknowledged that. Despite this, if one had to give his or her own opinion, they would say that Suna was the weakest out of the five. It made the Kazekage's blood boil, especially since he couldn't deny the truth in that statement. They didn't have Iwa's strong defenses, the structural superiority of Kumo, the military power of Kiri, or the vast resources that belonged to Konoha. Instead of prospering, the village only continued to decline.
No, all they had was the endless sea of sand that surrounded the village.
Still, the Kazekage was proud of his nation and had sacrificed much for what he believed would benefit the village, but Suna still fell short. He had instigated many different plans in order to help the village recover the resources that once made the nation strong, but all his efforts had been fruitless.
His most recent plan had probably been his worst.
The Kazekage let out a frustrated groan as his so-… its howls became louder. The screams echoed down the hallways. He had ordered Yashamaru to kill Gaara, a mission he had willingly accepted, but had unfortunately failed to do so. Death had only taken his brother-in-law and not the monster, the unusable tool that was his son.
His son was a weapon unfit to use. It's a shame his plan had gone so wrong.
"…I feel sorry for the boy."
The Kazekage's eyes narrowed as his eyes shifted from the nervous guard and over to the visitor who calmly sat in a chair on the opposite side of the room.
"I recognize those cries. They are cries from one who feels that he is truly alone…" Yagura murmured pensively as he glanced towards the door.
"Hmph." The Kazekage scoffed at the Mizukage as a guard hurriedly entered the room and bowed before the Suna leader.
"Report!" The Kazkage ordered harshly. "How is my so-… how is the beast doing?"
"K-Kazekage-sama, it has started to act up again. A-Anyone who t-tries to go near it is k-k-killed!"
Yagura watched this exchange with mild interest, taking note of how the Ichibi container was referred to by his father and the guard.
"Has it moved at all?" The Kazekage asked.
"N-No. I-It just sits there and yells when it's awake, and even when it sleeps that sand strikes at anyone who gets close! W-We just have to wait until it c-calms down."
The guard's face was petrified, and Yagura noticed some spots of blood on the man's face and clothes. The Kazekage shooed the guard away and directed his attention towards the Mizukage, who gave him a dull expression in response to his glare.
"Now… to what do I owe the pleasure?" The Kazekage asked, glaring at the other kage. "Why has the Mizukage come to visit me during this time? I had assumed Suna was too dry for your tastes."
The Mizukage had made an arrived in Suna unannounced early in the morning. Yagura was known as an aloof man by the other kages, and while the Kazekage was annoyed by his sudden presence, he had more pressing matters at hand.
Still, he needed to focus all his attention on Gaara, and he was having a hard time doing that with the Mizukage looking over his shoulder.
"It isn't where I would choose to live, but that's just a matter of preference." The Mizukage replied calmly, earning a grunt from the irritable Kage. "I understand that your son is the container for the Ichibi no Shukaku?"
"That thing is not my son." The Kazekage spat. "It is a weapon that is too unstable to be of any use to me or this village. Nothing more. It does more harm than good."
Yagura digested the man's harsh words for a moment before giving his reply.
"Then what if I offered to take this 'unusable' weapon off your hands?"
The air turned cold. The Kazekage gave the Mizukage a glare that would have made most men sweat and shake in their boots, but Yagura's stoic expression never left his face.
"…What are you asking of me?"
"I have made no secret of my condition to you or the other Kages." Yagura dodged the question, leaving his seat and stepping in front of the Kazekage. "You are well aware that I am a jinchuriki just like your son. It is because of this trait we share that I feel a sense of… camaraderie towards your son."
The Kazekage just listened silently as the host of the Sanbi no Kyodaigame continued to speak. It was partly because of the Mizukage's condition that he had wanted to turn Gaara into a weapon using the Ichibi's power. The Mizukage was recognized for his strength, and if Gaara had only learned to control his demon he could have made for the most useful weapon.
"Which is why I have come here to ask for your permission to take Gaara to Kirigakure and have him train… with me." Yagura put it bluntly, choosing not to decorate his request more than he needed to.
All he got in response to that was a raised eyebrow, showing the Kazekage's mild curiosity. He studied Yagura for a moment before replying.
"What compels you to do this?" The Kazekage asked.
Yagura turned away as he listened to the boy's wails from down the hall. Truth was, he still wasn't quite sure why he wanted to bring all the jinchuriki together. Part of him wanted to say that it was because he felt sympathy and understanding towards his fellow containers, which he did, but that wasn't the reason.
He acted on an impulse he had a few days ago. A simple whim. Nothing more, nothing less.
Still, as he listened to the boy cry, Yagura started to feel like he had more of a reason for wanting to meet with the other containers.
He felt like… helping his fellow jinchuriki.
"As I said before, I understand his cries." Yagura shrugged. "I wish to support him."
"Hmph. Your request is ludicrous and shall not be granted." The Kazekage said harshly as his eyes narrowed at the Mizukage. "While the creature may be in that state, it can still be used to intimidate those around us."
Yagura had expected that answer. Gaara could still be used as a status symbol. Even if the Kazekage couldn't control the demon inside Gaara, attacking a village that housed a jinchuriki was something no one would do willingly. Attacking might agitate the beast inside, and if someone were to attack Ichibi container…
Well, the bloodstains on that guard's suit were all the answer one needed.
Of course, Yagura could still bet that the Kazekage hoped to control the Ichibi in the future, when Gaara was older. He could use that aspiration to persuade the Kage…
"Your desire was to have Gaara learn to control the beast inside him and become a weapon for the village to use." Yagura said. "If you were to let me take him to Kiri, I could teach him how to control the Ichibi."
The Kazekage's eyes widened for a moment before his scowl returned.
"How?"
"I control the Sanbi." Yagura reminded him, making the Kazekage stiffen when he heard the three-tailed beast's name.
In demonstration, Yagura channeled a bit of the demon turtle's chakra into his hand, enveloping it in a red haze of chakra. He flicked his wrist once and the chakra dissipated.
"If you allow me to train Gaara until he gains full control of his demon, I will send him back to Suna upon your request." Yagura made an offer. "I will give send you monthly reports on the boy's progress, weekly if you wish. You won't have to tell this to anyone, and you have my word that I won't either. I had planned to keep this under wraps if you would give your permission…"
"...He may learn to control the demon on his own when he gets older." The Kazekage pointed out.
"It's more likely that he'll become more unstable as he gets older." Yagura said, shaking his head at the man. "Wouldn't you want a weapon made sooner than later? I promise to take good care of him."
Yagura felt a little disgusted by his own words. Jinchuriki weren't made to be weapons. He felt like he was insulting Gaara and himself.
"…Very well…" The Kazekage said slowly, closing his eyes as he reluctantly agreed.
In the end, this was probably what was best for the village. He would have liked to believe Gaara would learn to control the demon on his own, but he knew there was little chance of that. He had the potential to become a dangerous threat. So he'd push the problem onto someone else.
Besides, if Yagura kept his word and turned Gaara into the weapon he wanted… well, it was a win-win situation for him.
"However, you will have to take him back to Kiri yourself." The Kazekage smirked. "I won't spare any men trying to help you move him. It's too much of a risk. If Gaara causes any more damage I'll hold you accountable for it. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes."
"Good." The Kazekage leaned back in his chair and waved the man away. "I'll expect a report from you soon if this training of yours works."
Though he highly doubted that the training would go well. That beast could not be controlled.
Yagura nodded and left the room. He made his way down the hall, heading towards the screams. He came to a door near the end of the hall. Two guards stood next to it, but they kept a few feet's distance from it. The two men did nothing as Yagura stepped past them and entered the room.
The staircase that led down was a tunnel covered with sand. Yagura ignored the sandy walls as they jumped out at him. Yagura could tell that parts of the sand were stained with blood, and while it jumped dangerously at him, it didn't make contact with the Mizukage.
Eventually, Yagura made it to the bottom where a crying boy with auburn hair sat on a bench within the single cell. The bars were either bent or torn down and sand thrashed violently around him.
"Kaa-san… Uncle Yashamaru… they loved me… I'm a good boy… good boy…"
Yagura ignored the boy's pained whispers and stepped forward. The sand beneath him shifted as he stepped towards the boy. Gaara's whispers became more frantic and desperate as the Sanbi container approached him.
"No… mother wants blood… Uncle Yashamaru's blood… go away… go away…!"
Gaara's voice rose as he heard the man come closer to him. The boy screamed and clutched his head in agony as the image of his uncle's death and last words flashed through his mind.
"GO AWAY! LEAVE ME ALONE! I DON'T WANT TO HURT ANYONE! I DON'T WANT YOU TO HURT ME ANYMORE!"
Gaara's scream tore through the cell as the sand spiked, swirled, and jumped. Gaara's howling did nothing to ward off the approaching Mizukage. Yagura held a stoic expression as he stepped in front of the boy. Gaara's eyes widened when he saw his hand reach out for him.
"DON'T TOUCH ME! DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE!" Gaara screamed desperately.
He didn't want anyone else to hurt him. For once, he willed his sand to attack the person in front of him. The sand rose up and closed around them, aiming towards Yagura.
But then, as if the gravity in the room had suddenly increased, all the sand abruptly dropped to the floor, no longer making any sort of movement. This went unnoticed by Gaara who continued to scream and cry.
...Until Gaara felt a tender hand place itself on the top of his head and give him an affectionate rub.
This hand had a tenderness that felt familiar somehow… it was affectionate and understanding. Gaara shook when he heard the man speak.
"It's okay… I won't hurt you."
Though the voice was void of any emotions whatsoever, Gaara trusted the words. The boy grabbed onto that hand desperately, sobbing and hiccupping as he held it in place. He wanted to feel more of that kindness.
Yagura watched the sobbing boy clutch onto his hand with his two tiny ones. The Mizukage stared at the boy with a calm look, but if one who knew him looked closely enough they could see the bewilderment and surprise in his eyes.
"This one is like me…" Yagura thought to himself. He glanced at the idle sand around them.
He had used the Sanbi's chakra as a warning to the Ichibi inside Gaara. It was clear who the stronger demon was, and the Ichibi would not provoke the host of the three tailed demon.
"Do you want to come with me?" Yagura asked softly. "I'll take you away from this place if you want."
His reply was a small nod. Yagura took one of the boy's hands as he made a move to exit the cell. The crying Gaara held onto his hand as he was pulled along. At this moment, a single thought went through Yagura's head.
"It's sad that me, a complete stranger, understands you more than your own father does…"
X.X.X.X.X-Kumogakure, Raikage's Tower-X.X.X.X.X
Yugito and Bee sat in their seats, listening to the Raikage's harsh words as he spoke to them. Yugito nervously played with the hem of her skirt while Bee impatiently fidgeted in his seat. He was already used to his father's shouting, so he was looking much more casual as the Raikage spoke to them.
Still, the duo would occasionally glance at the guest who stood a little bit away from where they sat. It was very unusual for the Mizukage to drop by like he had. Yagura listened as the Raikage spoke to Kumo's jinchuriki, silently observing the containers through half-lidded eyes.
During postwar time, Kumo and Kiri had actually maintained good relations with one another. While there were no treaties or official alliances between the villages, each nation did not overstep its boundaries. No one knew why the Mizukage and the Raikage got along so well, but everyone had to admit it was better than fighting.
Even still, Bee and Yugito couldn't help but wonder what had brought the Mizukage here today. It was unexpected, but why would the Raikage call them to the tower to meet such an important man? What reason could he have for introducing the two of them to the Mizukage?
The reason for their summoning couldn't be because of their jinchuriki status, could it?
"So in short, I am not happy." The Raikage's harsh voice got their attention again. "You've both been given special training to control the demons inside you so you could use their powers to benefit the village. However, you have shown absolutely no progress in utilizing the Nibi's and Hachibi's chakra."
"Hey, hey, we've been doing our best." Bee argued as Yugito shook beside him. "And it's kind of hard to concentrate on training when the other kids are always trying to pick a fight with me or bullying Yugito."
"That's no excuse." The Raikage scoffed as he rolled his eyes. "When I was your age I could defeat boys three times your size, and some of them were jonin."
Bee believed those stories. Those were the bedtime stories he and his brother A grew up to. His father was the type of asshole who would punch a man in the face upon their first meeting, laughing and drinking as he watched that person bleed. The Raikage was an intimidating man and a powerful leader who could not and would not be questioned.
If he told someone to jump off a cliff, they would do so happily if it would keep them from incurring the man's wrath.
That didn't keep Bee from acting a little rebellious every now and then.
The Raikage held his hand up as Bee opened his mouth. One glare at his son was enough keep him silent for the time being.
"Which is why I've arranged something with the Mizukage…" The Raikage leaned back in his seat. "Both of you are unaware of this, but the Mizukage is a jinchuriki like you two."
The Hachibi and Nibi containers' eyes widened. They gaped at the Mizukage who was now only focusing on the Raikage.
"And unlike you two, he knows how to control his demon." The Raikage said. He crossed his arms and glared at the two of them. "Which is why I'm sending the both of you to Kirigakure to train under him. You'll learn how to control your demons from an expert."
"Y-You mean you're sending us away from the village, Raikage-sama?" Yugito asked in surprise.
Yagura noted the girl's hopeful tone.
"Yes." The Raikage nodded, affirming her question. "Both of you will be spending time in Kiri until you learn to control your demons."
"Sorry, pops, but I'll have to decline."
The room silenced when Bee spoke. The boy had a jovial expression on his face as he blatantly refused his father's order. Yugito shivered when the Raikage focused on his son. He may not have been looking at her, but the intensity in the man's glare was enough to make the Nibi container fear for her life.
"…What was that…?"
"Don't be so impatient." Bee smiled as he carelessly waved his hand. "Just because the training isn't working immediately doesn't mean we won't eventually get it! Right, Yugito?"
"A-Actually going to Kirigakure doesn't sound like a bad idea…" Yugito said quietly. "If the Mizukage can help us control our demons faster… and getting away from the village might not be so bad…"
Yagura could tell that the girl was ecstatic.
"…Well, that's fine if you go." Bee smiled, hiding his disappointment.
If she wanted to go, that was her choice. He could understand why she wanted to go. Yugito didn't deserve the harsh treatment she got from the villagers, and maybe going to Kiri with the Mizukage would be better for her. But Bee had to stay here.
He had his reasons. He was confident that he'd make the village understand on his own.
"So I'm fine with staying here. I'll continue with the training I have now." Bee smiled. "That's fine, right Pop?"
His only answer was a direct blow to the side of his face.
Yugito cried out as Bee was brought to the ground by his father's fist. The man's face contorted with fury. Yagura watched the exchange with raised eyebrows and mild interest.
Quite different from the Kazekage's relationship with his son…
"I WILL NOT TOLERATE THIS BEHAVIOR, BEE!" The Raikage roared. "Regardless of your feelings you are going to Kirigakure! It is already clear that you and Yugito will not be able to control the demons on your own!"
"I can too!" Bee retorted stubbornly as he glared at his father. "I'll work really hard, that way I'll be able to-!"
He was silenced when his father punched him again.
"Don't be foolish!" The Raikage boomed. "Do you know where that mentality has led to? Death and destruction for this village. The previous jinchuriki for the Hachibi was too weak and as a result the Hachibi took away many lives! I don't want the village to suffer because of your stubbornness!"
"B-Bee! If we go to Kiri we can learn to control our demons!" Yugito pleaded with him. "If we do that, maybe we can finally…!"
"They won't understand if it isn't through our own strength!" Bee said defiantly. "I'll show the village that Killer Bee is strong enough to control the Hachibi!"
"YOU FOOLISH, STUBBORN WHELP!"
"I'M NOT GOING!" Bee shouted as he avoided his father's fist and ran out the door. Yugito made a move to go after him but stopped when she heard the Raikage's voice.
"Stay where you are, Yugito." The man growled, making the girl freeze and retreat back to her seat. "I'll attend to Bee later, but you are going to-!"
"Raikage-sama."
The Raikage and Yugito turned towards Yagura who had remained silent up until now. He gazed at the Raikage without fear.
"May I?" Yagura asked, glancing towards Yugito.
The Raikage grunted and gave a slow nod, leaning back in his chair as Yagura knelt in front of Yugito so he could look her in the eye.
"Yugito, I am not going to force you to come with me, nor will I force Bee to either. The Raikage only acts this way because he wants what's best for his village." Yagura said gently as he spoke to the girl. "However, my offer still stands. But I want you to choose for yourself. I truly wish to help you if you'll allow it. I know the burdens you are faced with because of your being a jinchuriki. If you want, I'll help you. Do you really want to come to Kirigakure with me?"
She did her best to ignore the Raikage's piercing gaze as she gazed at Yagura. Yugito thought back to the exchange with Bee and the Raikage. She understood Bee's feelings, but she did not share them. She wanted the villagers to understand her, but she had doubts that they ever would. The Nibi container had always had a desire to escape, to get away from the glares and hate the village directed towards her.
And now, the Mizukage was giving her that chance to escape. With him, she was confident that she would be able to grow stronger, and maybe one day when she returned to the village, people would finally be able to accept her for who she truly was.
"I want to go with you, Mizukage-sama." Yugito said quietly.
"Very well then." Yagura nodded as he stood up. He turned towards the Raikage. "We'll be leaving tonight."
"Good." The Raikage said, giving Yugito an approving nod. "I'll expect a progress report after her first week of training. And as for my son…"
"Don't force him." Yagura protested lightly as he caught the dangerous look in the man's eyes. "He only wants people to recognize him using his own strength. You should be proud to have such a determined son."
"Hmph. What I need is another obedient son." The Raikage growled. Why couldn't Bee act more like his brother?
"Then if you'll excuse us."
Yagura gave the Raikage a light bow before leading Yugito out the door. As they walked down the hall, Yagura's thoughts shifted to the Hachibi's container.
He had a strong spirit. Yagura sort of wished he had been that strong when he was his age.
X.X.X.X.X
Bee grumbled to himself as he made his way through Kumo's streets. His harsh exchange with his father was still fresh in his head. His swollen cheek had already healed up thanks to his accelerated healing factor but he was still angry.
He had to admit though, he had been a little excited when his dad told him he'd be sending him away to Kiri. Bee had always wanted an excuse to get out of the village and see the world. It was one of the many reasons he had looked forward to becoming a ninja. But even after becoming a genin he was unable to leave the village due to his being a demon container.
This was a rare opportunity for him, so why did he refuse?
"I can't run away from my situation…" Bee smiled lightly as he kicked the ground.
He knew he was just being stubborn, but if he went to Kiri he felt like he'd be running away. He was well aware of the hatred the village had towards him and Yugito, and he had always tried his best to make the villagers see them as people rather than as monsters. He had worked hard to make the village understand him, and he wouldn't leave until the people had acknowledged him.
When the villager's saw his strength they would see him not as Bee the jinchuriki, but as Bee the person who wanted nothing more than to help his village.
"I should probably go see Yugito off at least." Bee said, grinning as he headed towards the village gates. It would probably be a while until he'd see her again.
Suddenly, Bee felt someone quickly approaching him from behind. Whipping his body around, Bee made a precise strike in front of him, catching his hooded assailant in the wrist and making him drop the kunai he had been holding. Bee glared at his attacker as he held onto his wrist.
"An assassin?" Bee thought.
His eyes widened under his shades when he saw the face the hood was trying to hide.
"Motoi…?"
No… it wasn't him. Motoi had always been his friend. He was the one person who understood him…
Motoi just stood there as Bee stared at him. The Hachibi container slowly brought his fist up and smiled at his friend, gesturing for him to bump fists like they had always done.
"D…Dammit, just die already!" Motoi shouted as he turned and ran away from Bee. "It's your fault my father's dead! Why can't a monster like you just leave us alone?"
Bee watched his friend leave with a melancholy look on his face. The boy wiped his eye and changed his destination.
He had to grab a few things before going to see Yugito off…
X.X.X.X.X
"Are you ready to go?"
Yugito looked back at the village one last time, searching for the one person she considered as her friend. She bit her lip as she waited for him to show up. She at least wanted to say goodbye before going to Kiri…
…And maybe try to convince be to go along with him. Things would be so lonely and boring without him…
"You can't force him to come with us." Yagura said monotonously as he took her pack from her. He didn't mind carrying it. "It's his own decision."
"I know that but…" Yugito trailed off. "I've always been with Bee-kun. He's always protected me. Things will be so different without him…"
"That boy is strong." Yagura commented. "He isn't afraid to stand up for himself, and his standing up to his father is testament to that. He'll grow strong on his own, and when you see him again, you'll be able to show him how strong you have become as well."
"…I hope so." Yugito nodded at the Mizukage with a small smile. She sighed. "I just wish I could have at least said goodbye…"
"Yo!"
Yagura and Yugito both turned to see Bee standing under the gates, happily waving to the both of them with a wide grin on his face. Quickly shaking off her surprise, Yugito ran towards him and launched herself into a hug.
"Bee!" Yugito cried happily. "I'm so glad I got to see you one last time before I left…"
Yagura stared at the boy who had appeared. Bee gazed up at the older man. Yagura's eyes were full of understanding.
"Well, we should probably get going then…" Yagura said as he turned to leave. Bee smiled after him.
"Yeah. Let's go, Yugito." Bee rhymed as he grabbed her hand and lead her down the road.
"Wha…? Bee…?" Yugito muttered in confusion. She finally noticed the backpack he was carrying. Hers expression turned hopeful. "You're coming with us?"
"Yeah." Bee nodded. "I figure this village isn't ready for Killer Bee just yet. I'll get stronger so that one day people can see how awesome I am!"
"Me too!" Yugito cried enthusiastically as she clutched onto his side. "I'm so happy that you're coming with us!"
"And now, the both of you can grow stronger together." Yagura said as the duo followed behind him. He turned he head towards the Hachibi container. "Bee…?"
"Yeah?"
"If you work hard enough, the villagers may understand you and Yugito someday."
Bee smiled at the man's words. Maybe going to Kiri wouldn't be so bad. The jinchuriki smiled at the Mizukage.
"You had better make me really strong then!" Bee smiled. "I'll tame this creature inside me and show my village the greatness that is Killer Bee!"
Yagura stared at him for a few moments before turning back towards the road in front of him. That was four jinchuriki, including himself. Only five remained, and meeting with them may prove to be a little more difficult than meeting with the Ichibi, Nibi, and Hachibi had been…
At least there was one he wouldn't have to take care of personally…
X.X.X.X.X-Somewhere in Kirigakure-X.X.X.X.X
Utakata silently blew some bubbles as he comfortably lied against a tree. The clear orbs floated around him helped create peaceful, almost colorful scenery. It sure helped distract him from the nightmare that had been recurring for him lately.
It was a nightmare about his sensei's betrayal.
The Rokubi container groaned and held his head as the memories haunted him. Because it was an event not far off in the past, the visions were still fresh in his head. The disgusting feeling of betrayal still lingered…
Utakata's eyes widened when he heard a cluster of bubbles pop. He immediately jumped out of the way just as a massive sword came down on his position.
The jinchuriki was given almost no time to recover as the sword came swinging in his direction. Despite its huge size, it came at him with surprising speed. Utakata was quick enough to dodge, but it was becoming increasingly difficult to escape its large base without injury.
Utakata saw his chance and immediately jumped backwards to put some distance between him and his attacker. As he jumped backwards, he brought his bubble blower to his lips and produced a stream of bubbles towards his assailant. Utakata turned and ran after hearing his explosive bubbles detonate.
"Strange…" Utakata murmured as he ran through the forest.
It wasn't strange that hunter-nin would attack him. He had many encounters with Kiri's special ops ever since he fled his village, and while the groups gave him trouble he always came out relatively unscathed. But the way this one had attacked, so blunt and without a care for stealth, coupled with the fact he should have encountered more ninja by now was very unusual.
Had Kiri decided to hire mercenaries to take him in?
"Found you!"
Utakata clicked his tongue in annoyance as he dodged the sword again. This time, he was able to clearly identify his attacker.
His eyes widened when he realized exactly what group that person belonged to.
"A swordsman!" Utakata gasped when he saw the emblem attached to the man's arm.
He was one of the Seven Ninja Swordsman, and one of the seven strongest men in the entire country of Kiri!
"So you must be the jinchuriki for the Rokubi no Namekuji." Zabuza smirked as he raised his Seversword, Kubikiribocho. "I was looking forward to a good match, so quit it with the running, will ya?"
"So, they've sent one of the ninja swordsmen after me…" Utakata murmured to himself. "I suppose that's flattering in a way."
"You jinchuriki are supposed to be a tough bunch. Show me what you've got!" Zabuza grinned underneath his mask, making a move towards Utakata again.
Just as Utakata was about to respond with an attack of his own, his body was suddenly pulled backwards against his own will.
"What the-!" Utakata gasped as his limbs were constrained and his body was pulled against a tree.
His dropped his bubble blower in surprise. He was shocked to notice Zabuza's movements had stopped and the man seemed to be struggling to move as well. It was then that the Rokubi container noticed what was holding him and Zabuza in place.
"Wire…?" Utakata thought as he noticed the string that tied him to the tree.
"Yare, yare. You get excited way too easily, Zabuza."
Utakata's eyes widened when a tall, thin man wearing an ANBU mask stepped out from behind a tree. He held a long, needlelike sword in his hand with wire attached to the end.
"Another swordsman?" Utakata thought frantically when he recognized the Nuibari and the emblem around the man's arm. He heard its wielder click his tongue at Zabuza.
"We weren't supposed to attack him, y'know." The tall man said tauntingly as he approached his fellow swordsman.
"Shut up, Kushimaru. I can do whatever the hell I feel like." Zabuza growled as he struggled against his constraints.
"Kushi-kun is right, Zabuza-chan." Another taunting voice came from behind Utakata. "We were just sent to deliver a message."
To Utakata's surprise and horror, another swordsman stepped out from behind the tree he was tied to. It was a beautiful young woman dragging the Hiramekarei behind her. She had long red hair and had a teasing smile on her face as she looked at her comrades.
Utakata felt fear as he watched the three swordsmen interact. He might have been able to take on one of them alone, but three at once? His situation had taken a turn for the worst.
What did they plan on doing with him…?
"Mei…" Zabuza glowered at the girl who giggled lightly in response. "Make Kushimaru untie me.
"Not until you promise to behave like a good boy!" Mei laughed. She glanced at the small instrument on the ground as her feet tapped against it. "Oh… what an interesting toy…"
"Hey, put that down!" Utakata demanded when the woman picked up his bubble blower. Mei just smiled at him.
"Hm? Is this yours?" Mei asked as she twirled it around between her fingers.
It had been a gift from his teacher, who had taught him his bubble jutsu. While he had nothing but hate and contempt for his teacher now, that pipe reminded him of the good times he had shared with his sensei. That, and it was what allowed him to perform his stronger techniques. It was his only weapon.
Regardless, he didn't want a stranger touching what belonged to him.
"…What do you want with me?" Utakata asked with a hostile edge. "Has the Mizukage sent you three to retrieve me because I'm too dangerous to be roaming about?"
News of his sensei's death and his transformation had already gotten around. It would explain why the Mizukage decided to send his swordsmen this time.
"If you were listening to me earlier, you'd know we're just here to deliver a message." Mei replied cheerfully.
Utakata eyed her suspiciously. She had mentioned something about a message now that he thought about it…
"...Why would the Mizukage send the swordsmen to do this?" Utakata asked. "Why not send regular ninja?"
"You would escape the moment you saw any Kiri ninja." Kushimaru pointed out. "That's why Mizukage-sama sent us to deliver the message. We were the only ones who could catch you without resorting to violence."
"Or rather, you and I were the only ones." Mei smiled at the tall man. "Zabuza-chan just tagged along."
"I had hoped for something more exciting when I heard you guys were sent to find the Rokubi container." Zabuza grumbled.
"We told you it was just a message. There was nothing else to hope for." Kushimaru pointed out exasperatedly.
"Whatever. Could you untie me already?" Zabuza asked. Kushimaru's expressionless mask stared at him for a bit. The man rolled his eyes. "And I won't try to attack the jinchuriki. Happy?"
Kushimaru nodded and cut the wire with his longsword. Zabuza glared at the taller man as he rubbed a part of his arm where the wire had uncomfortably dug into.
"Made it a little tight, don't you think?"
"I could have stitched you to a tree instead. Would that have been better?" Kushimaru said sarcastically.
"Boys, boys, stop fighting." Mei scolded the both of them when they gripped the hilts of their swords.
"He started it." Kushimaru pointed out immaturely.
"I started it?" Zabuza said incredulously. "Let me tell you something…!"
"Um, excuse me?"
The three swordsmen turned towards the boy who was still tied to a tree.
"…What was the message?" Utakata asked, annoyed that he had been forgotten.
"Right, right." Mei nodded hastily and pulled out a slip of paper from her pocket. She walked forward and placed it in the fold of Utakata's sash and stepped away. "There you go."
Utakata blinked when she stepped away and started walking back to her teammates.
"That's it?" Utakata asked dumbly. He hadn't believed they had just come to deliver a message at first, but that seemed to be the case. Didn't they want to bring him back to Kiri?
"Sorry for disappointing you, but that's all we were asked to do. We were also ordered not to harm you if we could help it." Mei smiled back at him. "Just be sure to read the message and reply to the Mizukage soon, okay?"
The three swordsmen turned to leave. Utakata panicked when he noticed the Hiramekarei wielder still had his weapon in her hand.
"W-Wait! What about my bubble blower!"
"I'm keeping it." Mei responded, laughing at the teen's gaping expression. "If you want it back so badly, pay a visit to the Mizukage sometime soon. I'm sure that's what he wants."
Utakata struggled and tried to break free, but by the time his constraints had loosened enough to the point where he could escape, the swordsmen were already long gone. The Rokubi container grabbed the piece of paper from his sash belt and quickly read it.
He was surprised by the shortness of the letter, and by the request written on it.
Come to the Mizukage's Tower. I promise no harm will come to you. There are some people I'd like you to meet.
"…He can't be serious." Utakata muttered in disbelief.
Such a blunt request, and one he wouldn't answer to unless he had a damn good reason. The Mizukage had sent three of the Mist swordsmen, the best ninja in the village, to deliver a small message with a request he would refuse? Was the current Mizukage right in the head?
Utakata was about to shred the little piece of paper to pieces until the signature caught his eye.
From the container of the Sanbi no Kyodaigame, the three-tailed demon beast.
Utakata was a little confused by this. He had thought this was a message from the Mizukage. What was with the signature? Another jinchuriki had wrote the letter? But then why would the Mizukage…
Utakata's eyes widened when realization dawned on him. His mouth fell open in shock.
"No… the Mizukage couldn't be a…" Utakata whispered.
He had to go to Kirigakure and meet with the Mizukage now, if not to confirm his suspicions about this new information regarding the Mizukage but so he could at least get his bubble blower back from that flippant swordswoman.
X.X.X.X.X-Takigakure-X.X.X.X.X
Fu trudged through the empty streets with her hands inside her pockets. A few stolen candies and an apple were clutched in her hands. She promptly raised her hand and took a bite out of the red fruit.
"Hmph. Serves them right." Fu scoffed, nodding to herself in satisfaction.
They refused to let her buy food from their store, so she had done the next best thing. It was nothing new to her. She had stolen food before. She'd have to run for awhile, stay away from the area she had stolen from for about a week, maybe hide from a few ninja or two, but all of it would be water under the bridge soon. She didn't mind spending a couple of days in the forest and away from the village.
Besides, this was the only thing that ever brought her any excitement and joy in her life. Getting back at those who mistreated her, even over something small like this, was a feeling she savored.
"Hello there."
Fu stopped in her tracks when she saw someone standing in front of her. She gasped and dropped her food when she saw someone was approaching her. She immediately turned to run, but was held back by the strong hand that grasped her shoulder.
"Hold on a minute." The man said. "I only want to talk."
"Get off me!" Fu demanded, punching the man in the gut and tearing his hand off her shoulder.
Yagura grunted as he rubbed his stomach. This girl had an edge despite being so young, and that a surprisingly hard punch. He could imagine what had made her act like this towards strangers though.
Fu smiled when she couldn't hear the man's footsteps behind her. Looks like her punch had done more than she thought. She liked to think she was stronger than most girls her age.
She gasped and fell down when she bumped into someone.
"It's rude to run away from someone who's talking to you." Yagura said as he bent down to help her up. "And punching a stranger isn't common courtesy either…"
"G-Go away!" Fu shouted, squirming away from the man and broke out in another sprint.
Yagura stared tiredly after the girl. This was getting him nowhere. He quickly caught up to the Nanabi container and grabbed onto her arm, making sure she couldn't escape again.
"Let me go!" Fu screamed, throwing kicks and punches at the man who accepted all of them without flinching.
Her attacks were strong for one her age, Yagura noted, but he barely felt them. He could guess that this container defended herself when she was attacked. It wouldn't help her situation any, but he was glad that despite her harsh treatment she still had the courage to stand up to those who tried to do her harm.
Fu's desperate punches and kicks gradually started to weaken and slow down. Eventually, her attacks ceased and the girl just stood there with her head bowed towards the ground. Her minty green hair fell over her eyes as she breathed heavily, tired from throwing so many kicks and punches.
"You done?" Yagura asked, arching an eyebrow at the girl.
She couldn't get away. She probably understood that now.
"…What do you want?" Fu muttered angrily. "You want to try to slay the 'demon' too?"
Yagura just stared down at her as he listened. Her tone was harsh and her arm shook as he held onto it.
"I hate you people… I hate everyone…" Fu growled, still shaking. She was scared, even though she didn't want to show it. Yagura could tell though. "The ones that always attack me… the ones that laugh as they hurt me… you're the monsters, not me…!"
The bitterness, hatred and fear in her voice did not go unnoticed by Yagura. This girl had spirit, but she had an intense hatred for humanity as well. He honestly couldn't blame her. She had a good reason to believe that the world was her enemy.
But now, he could be her comrade in this harsh world.
"Do you want to leave this place?"
Fu's head shot up. She gave him an incredulous stare with eyes full of surprise and disbelief.
"I can take you away from here." Yagura told her without an expression. "I won't hurt you like the villagers have. If you'll allow it, I want to help you."
"…Why?" Fu asked in a guarded tone.
"…Because we're the same." Yagura replied.
Takigakure was a small country with no appointed kage. It had a leader who helped organize the country, but he had no real say in what villagers could and could not do. No one would be able to stop him if the Mizukage decided to take Fu away.
Hell, most of them would probably be grateful for it.
"…You're not from this village?" Fu asked suspiciously.
"No." Yagura replied.
"…Do you live somewhere far away?"
"Relatively."
Yagura let go of her arm after he had said his piece. He wasn't going to force the Nanabi container to go anywhere with him if she didn't want to. Still, she hadn't ran away yet so that must've meant she was a least thinking about it. Fu stared at the Sanbi container for a few minutes before finally speaking.
"…You mean it? You'll really take me away from here?" Fu asked.
"Yes."
Slowly and tentatively, Fu extended her hand towards Yagura who silently watched her. The girl's hand was shaking. She kept reaching out until her small fingers wrapped themselves around his motionless hand.
"…Okay." Fu mumbled. "Let's go."
Yagura held onto to her small hand as he led her out of the village. She had been rather quiet, but Yagura was perceptive enough to tell that the girl was overjoyed.
X.X.X.X.X-Somewhere in Iwagakure-X.X.X.X.X
Yagura walked through the forest at a slow pace. He was walking on a small trail he had found hidden on the main road. Sneaking into Iwagakure had been a little tricky, but in the end he had no trouble so far.
Plus, it was rare for him to have a challenge.
Unlike Suna and Kumo, Yagura wouldn't have to exchange greetings with the Tsuchikage to meet the two jinchuriki that Iwa housed. From what he knew, both of Iwa's demon containers had left the village on their own accord. While this would save Yagura a lot of trouble, it also meant that the Kage had no actual say in what the jinchurikis did with themselves. That would make convincing the Gobi and Yonbi containers to go with him to Kiri a little difficult.
The calming sound of rushing water sounded a few yards away. Yagura eventually came to a clearing that had a large lake within it. Water flowed down a waterfall that dominated the setting. The atmosphere had an unusual but calm feel to it.
It was definitely the kind of place Yagura liked.
The Mizukage glanced around the vicinity with curious eyes. He made a point of making himself seem at ease and relaxed so as to reassure the person watching him knew that he meant no harm.
He might've not been able to see his observer, but Yagura knew that someone was watching him.
The Mizukage pulled out a small slip of paper from his pocket and placed it on a rock in front of him. He scanned the area one more time before raising his voice.
"An invitation." Yagura said loudly. "To the jinchuriki of the Yonbi no Saru."
With his business done, Yagura turned on his heel and walked back towards the road he came from. He probably could have done more, but from what he knew of the Yonbi container this was most likely the best course of action to take. Avoid conflict, and leave it up to him whether or not he wished to come meet him himself.
"An interesting proposal."
Yagura didn't flinch at the man's voice. He just continued to walk even as the speaker placed his elbow on his shoulder for support as he read the letter.
"I had heard rumors, but I never believed that the Mizukage was actually a jinchuriki like me." Roshi smiled as he leaned against the Sanbi container. He waved the letter in front of Yagura's face, chuckling lightly at the incredibility of it all. "What would I gain from going to Kiri with you?"
"You want to learn how to control your demon, yes?" Yagura replied coolly. "I may be able to help you with that."
"…Is that so?" Roshi quieted at the offer. He smiled at the smaller man as he tucked away his letter. "Then I suppose it wouldn't hurt to go. And I'll admit I'm a little curious to meet the other jinchuriki as well…"
Yagura didn't respond to the man. He was a sharp one. Roshi continued to chuckle.
"I suppose that's an impulse we both share, huh?" Roshi grinned. His carefree expression changed to one that was much graver. "Hey, what exactly do you hope to accomplish by doing this?"
Yagura was glanced at the man once before turning back to the road ahead of him. Roshi frowned at him.
"Do you really think you can help us?
Yagura's face was expressionless.
"I hope so."
X.X.X.X.X
"Disgusting…"
Han grunted as he kicked the dead Iwa nin to the ground. He spat on the corpse once before glaring at the few remaining Iwa nin trying to escape. A thick, hot mist surrounded the area. The Gobi container raised his hands as clouds of steam surrounded the fleeing ninja. Han smiled with satisfaction as their tortured screams filled the air.
After their screams died down, the steam that filled the air was sucked and collected into the small openings of the small, makeshift furnace Han wore on his back. He nodded at the dead bodies, lingering on their red, blistering features before bending down to pick up the red plates that were placed next to his feet.
"Ah, good…" Han noted with some relief as he picked up his armor. "It doesn't look like any of them were…"
He paused when he noticed a long crack on one of them. Several smaller cracks and chips were on a few separate plates. The jinchuriki's eye twitched as he glared at the defects in his armor.
"Fucking hell…!" Han seethed, wishing he had something or someone to take his frustration out on.
He had been so careful this time! The ninja hadn't even gotten close to him! Why couldn't he get through one battle without having one of his armor plates break?
"Dammit!" Han cursed as he kicked one of the bodies. "At this rate it'll take years before I complete the rest of my armor! Don't you fools have anything better to do than chase after me?"
Not that he'd get an answer from a dead man. Han growled angrily he made a move to leave the area.
"Well, isn't this something…"
Han's eyes widened when he heard someone's voice from behind him. Had he missed one of the ninja? He whirled around to face his new enemy.
He was puzzled when he noticed the Kirigakure plate that was sewn into the newcomer's shirt.
"The jinchuriki of the Gobi no Irukauma." Yagura said as he nodded his head as the teen. "You're Han, I presume?"
The jinchuriki of the five-tailed dolphin horse, and quite possibly the most violent and hostile out of all the demon containers.
"What's a Kirigakure ninja doing in Iwagakure?" Han asked, glaring at the man. He shook his head and smiled. "Well, it's not like I care. I was looking for something to take my frustration out on…"
Yagura jumped out of the way as steam was blasted towards him. The Mizukage watched as steam flowed out of the furnace attached to the Gobi container's back. The teen smiled cruelly as the area was filled with the warm haze.
"Die."
The Sanbi container made no attempt to move as the steam congested around him. Han frowned at this. Most of his enemies would have put on a show before succumbing to his technique.
His eyes widened when he saw the steam being sucked into the mist ninja's mouth.
"W-Wha…?"
Han was given no time to react. A torrent of water spewed forth from Yagura's mouth and swept Han up in a large wave. The jinchuriki cried out as the water crashed into him. He noted that the water was extremely hot and almost scalded his skin. He crashed into a tree as the torrent died down.
"That's an interesting jutsu you have…" Yagura commented as he breathed on his hand. His breath was very warm. "The only reason your steam jutsu didn't work on me was because I was able to turn the moisture into water, even after it had entered my body."
"Damn you…"
Han's eyes widened in alarm when he noticed one of his armor plates in the man's hands.
"And this is interesting too." Yagura noted as he ran his hand across the plate's smooth surface. He turned it over as he studied the armor piece. "Did you make this yourself?"
"G-Give that back!" Han cried frantically as he quickly got to his feet. "Do you have any idea how long it took to make that?"
"Quite a while if these distractions are so constant." Yagura replied, glancing at one of the dead Iwa ninja.
"Who the hell are you?"
"Yagura, Mizukage of Kirigakure." Yagura said, bowing lightly at the boy. "Jinchuriki of the Sanbi no Kyodaigame.
The Gobi container's mouth fell open in shock, but Han's expression quickly turned back to hostile when his eyes focused on his plate again.
"Well, I don't care who you are…" Han growled menacingly. "If there's even one crack it that plate I'll…!"
"Hear me out, won't you?" Yagura said, holding up his hand to silence the teen. "I would like to give you an invitation."
Han glared at the Mizukage.
"What?"
"Come to Kirigakure with me." Yagura said softly, extending his hand towards the boy. "I want to help my fellow jinchuriki if they'll allow it. I won't force you to come, but I'd like you to consider my offer."
Han stared at the man with a shocked expression for a few moments before responding.
"…You can't be serious." Han deadpanned. "What reason could you have?"
"Do I need a reason to want to help the other jinchuriki?"
"Nothing in life is ever so simple." Han stated. "If it were, humans wouldn't be as stupid as they are now."
Yagura frowned slightly at this. The way Han talked, especially the way he said the word 'human', sounded like he was disgusted by the word. The considerable amount of venom and contempt in the boy's voice and the way he spat out the word…
It was a fact. This boy truly hated humanity.
"…Well, regardless of what reasons or motives you think I may or may not have, do you really have anything to lose by coming with me?" Yagura asked. "Aren't you curious about your demon?"
"It hasn't bothered me."
"I can teach you to use its power if you want. It will help you grow stronger."
"I'm already strong."
"Well then…" Yagura said, holding up the red plate in his hands. "How about a quiet workplace? You can spend all the time you want making your armor, and I can even provide you with the supplies you need to make it. How does that sound?"
Han thought for a moment. The offer was rather appealing, but he wasn't dumb enough to take an offer that seemed to good to be true from someone he had only just met.
"What's the catch?"
"You'll have to put up with me for a while." Yagura replied. "I may ask you to do a few things that might seem distasteful, but it will take time to complete you armor, right? Giving you a place to stay, providing you with supplies… It's a fair deal, no?"
"…Why should I trust you?" Han asked suspiciously.
When it came down to it, people only looked out for themselves. It was a philosophy Han believed in. No matter what a person did, there was no such thing as good will. Someone would benefit in some why. Han did NOT want to become the tool the Tsuchikage wanted him to be.
"I won't hurt you or ask you to become my servant." Yagura said as he extended his hand towards Han again. "Because we are the same, I thought I would give you some assistance."
Han slowly walked towards him. He stared down at Yagura's hand for a moment before slapping it away. The Gobi container glared at the Sanbi container.
"Both of us may be jinchuriki, but we are NOT the same. Don't you dare compare me to you." Han seethed, his brown eyes flashing red for a brief moment. Yagura maintained his stoic expression as Han stepped away from him. "…But just so long as you don't bother me and stay the hell out of my way, I don't mind going to Kiri with you. Are we clear?"
Yagura nodded and started walking away from the bloody field. Han followed him at his own pace, casting suspicious looks towards the Mizukage.
"Seriously though, what are you planning…?"
Yagura sighed. Why couldn't he believe that he just wanted to help the other jinchuriki?
He certainly hoped the last jinchuriki would be more understanding…
X.X.X.X.X-Konohagakure-X.X.X.X.X
Naruto sighed miserably as he walked down the streets of Konoha. He did his best to ignore the glares that burned into his back, but when the whole village was giving him that look it was extremely hard to just brush it off. Naruto picked up his pace when one drunken villager threw a broken bottle at him.
The jinchuriki opened the door to his apartment room and collapsed on his bed. Tears fell from his eyes as he buried his face inside his pillowed. He didn't cry, but tears continued to stream down his face. He slowly turned his head towards the calendar that hung on the wall right next to his dresser.
His birthday was tomorrow…
Before he had decided to go take a walk, he could tell the village was avidly and excitedly preparing for the festival held on October 10th to pay their respects to the Yondaime who stopped the Kyuubi no Yoko from destroying the village years ago and to the deceased ninja who fought hard to protect the village. The entire village was eager to throw their annual party for the great man.
However, it wasn't a party Naruto would be invited to or welcomed at.
October 10th may have been his birthday, but Naruto hated the day. He didn't have anyone to spend time with, he wouldn't be opening presents, and nobody would wish him a happy birthday. The only gift he would probably end up receiving was a pummeling from the villagers who would get too high and drunk off the festivities and seek some entertainment in the form of a blonde haired punching bag.
Naruto curled up on his bed as he tried to go to sleep, dreading what tomorrow would bring. He closed his eyes tightly as he wished the bad thoughts away, silently praying in his mind. Once, just once, he wished this festival would be different.
He wanted someone to be there for him when tomorrow came around.
A/N: Everyone has been gathered except Naruto. Why? This chapter was getting too damn long for me to post everything at once. There was a lot to include. Thusly, the next chapter is already written up. This is a fun story to write…
I've already got plans for how the story will progress and how the conflict will arise. For now, we will focus on getting to know the containers and getting them situated with each other and in Kiri, slowly moving forward until Madara (No, Yagura isn't under his mind control yet) and Akatsuki come into the picture. There will still be plenty of action I hope, and you may learn some interesting things about the containers.
So as stated before, the second chapter is ready to be posted. Depending on the response I get from this chapter depends on when I'll post the next one. If I get more reviews from this chapter than I did from the prologue, I'll post the next chapter immediately. I need reviews for this chapter. Give me your opinion on how things are shaping up.
Anyway, thanks for the early support you've all shown me. I really appreciate it. I'll do my best not to disappoint you. Until next time.
Kiiam