Birth of an Assassin: Heir to the Namikaze
Chapter 14
Thorns of a Red Rose
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Assassin's Creed or Naruto.
"Speaking"
'Thinking'
"Jutsu"
"Tailed Beast Speak"
Pairing: NaruxSaku
Assassin!Naruto
Hey guys, time once again for a chapter of Namikaze Assassin. As I haven't updated any of my stories in quite a while I'm sure you have had plenty of time to contemplate what this chapter might have in store. I am quite excited to be back to writing especially this story as its really a unique setting for Naruto and friends to be thrust into.
When they were last seen, the victors of the Preliminaries were being debriefed by the Hokage. With a moment to speak Sakura asked Naruto what his plans were, but he responded cryptically. We later found out the real Naruto had gone to find Karin in concern for her well being and interrupted Kabuto's assassination attempt.
We also can't forget about a few other unique occurrences that are unique to this story. One of which Gaara being defeated and humiliated during the Preliminary against Naruto. How will this change Suna's war plans and how long until her rage against the Namikaze boils over?
The second being the Sound squad was eliminated during the Second Exam. Zaku was killed and Dosu and Kin were taken to the Namikaze Compound for an unseen purpose in the Namikaze's plan. Now that it is time for Naruto to return to his home and train, how will he confront these two?
Let's read shall we?
000
The Creed
Stay your blade from innocents
See but be unseen
Never compromise the Assassins
Nothing is true, everything is permitted.
000
Forest of Death
Central Tower
Arena
000
"Naruto, what do you mean?"
Sakura crinkled her brow, not understanding the assassin's words.
Before the clone could go on to explain, Ibiki Morino shouted for quiet as the gathered genin started to disperse. Eyes turned back to the front as Anko revealed a box filled with pieces of paper. With attention restored to the front of the room the Hokage cleared his throat and continued from where they left off.
"Now then, there is something very important we must do before the final exam begins. Anko, if you would."
Acknowledging the order the proctor stepped forward and forced attention to the box she was holding.
"Alright boys and girls, I'll come to you so no pushing or shoving and just pick one piece. Hold onto it until Ibiki-san calls for your number."
Simple enough the shinobi each waited their turn as Anko moved down the line. Each reached into the box without looking and revealed their number scrawled on the folded paper. All were quiet as they contemplated what their selection meant for them in the final exam and some like Kankuro and Naruto began to catch on before the rest.
The puppet user received his number, seven. He figured that it was to determine which participants would go up against one another. Whoever was number eight would be his opponent and so he subtly glanced left and right to find out who he may have to fight against.
Rock Lee took his slip with fire in his eyes barely able to contain the excitement. He was not sure what the purpose of the procedure was but he knew he would get the best score. Upon revealing his number as ten he felt that it was clearly the superior number and was meant to be picked by him. Eagerly awaiting victory Lee watched as Anko made her way to Naruto and Sakura and hoped they received good numbers as well.
Sakura reached in and received the number six, somewhat nervous about the whole ordeal. She still wasn't sure of the significance behind the numbers and waited for Naruto to receive his. If it was for what she thought the numbers were for she was sincerely hoping that Naruto and her would receive different numbers.
'If I had to fight Naruto..I don't know what I would do.'
Naruto received his and began to unfold the paper with little interest. As Anko moved down the line Sakura could only keep her eyes on Naruto's card and waited until she saw the number. At first not fazed it was only until the two looked at one another before they realized the situation they were in.
Naruto had received the number five; they were now opponents of one another.
Sakura's eyes widened in fear and anxiety, there was no way they could fight one another. They were on two different levels of skill and if not for his teaching she would never have gotten that far! There was no match where they knew each others skills, it was clearly stacked in one corner's favor.
Embodying his usual calm demeanor, Naruto's clone just smiled and placed a hand on Sakura's frozen shoulder. It made her look into his eyes hidden beneath his hood and revealed a small smile that served to placate her, if only for a moment.
"Don't worry Sakura, I have a plan."
The girl suddenly felt relief. If he said it like that, how could she do anything but trust him? Able to breath again they both faced forward and waited for the proctors to finish before Ibiki prepared a pen and began to call out for numbers.
After going down the row and marking each person's name down in the appropriate spot, Ibiki nodded to the Hokage.
"Please reveal the order in which the final matches will take place."
Given the order the Jounin turned the clipboard so that the genin could read the names. The results surprised some, satisfied others, and overall left a very tense atmosphere among those remaining. They now knew the names and faces of their opponents and could no longer find camaraderie in being finalists together.
First Match
Shikamaru Nara vs. Temari
'Really, I have to go first? What a drag..knew I should have grabbed that second slip in my fingers.' Shikamaru just scratched his head and kicked the ground, frustrated.
Temari couldn't believe she was going up against that lazy guy and knew it would be a waste of her talent. She counted herself both disappointed and somewhat lucky she wasn't going against the assassin. Although she wanted nothing more to avenge her sister's embarrassing defeat she somehow doubted her skills could match.
Second Match
Kiba Inuzuka vs. Rock Lee
Although it was most definitely not his first pick, Kiba didn't feel too bad against going up against the Taijutsu user. Although Lee's performance against Choji had been short he saw how lethal he was up close and knew he would have to train hard to keep up.
Rock Lee for all his initial excitement remained quite calm upon finding out his opponent. All his energy was sapped when he realized he would not get to prove himself against a worthy opponent like the Namikaze or Neji. Still, he would consider the match a stepping stone in the right direction and tightened his fist in a symbol of determination.
Kankuro vs. Shino Aburame
Glances exchanged between the two but nothing else. One had little respect for the other and the other had no intentions of allowing his skill to get the better of his judgment. There was no room for mistakes in the Chunin Exams and Shino would not underestimate the puppet user.
Naruto Namikaze vs. Sakura Haruno
The other competitors had more surprise at this match up upon reveal than the two fighters did. After Naruto had instilled confidence in Sakura with a future plan to take care of the match, there was little that could shake the two from their masks of indifference.
Sasuke Uchiha vs. Neji Hyuuga
Neji smirked, a worthy challenge for him. Although it was not a clan lauded among the Hyuuga as the Namikaze were, it was the chance to prove who had the stronger doujutsu. It would also allow him to prove to everyone that there was such a thing as destiny and that there was no changing his.
'I will have victory, it has already been written.'
Now that they actually got a good look at the chart, Shikamaru noticed that the brackets implied it was some form of tournament. That meant it wasn't just their first opponent, if they won they would have to fight another person until they finally lost or received first place.
"I have a question."
The lazy genius raised his hand and had the Hokage bring attention to him.
"Yes, Shikamaru-kun?"
"If this is a tournament, does that mean that the winner is the only one to become a Chunin?"
The Hokage smiled as he was glad the question was asked.
"No, any participant has an equal chance to become a Chunin regardless if they win or lose. The selection is based off numerous factors including displays of skill, cunning, and strength when facing your opponent. Just defeating them is not enough to guarantee selection."
This was new information as they had expected it to be a more linear contest. If they had to display all of these characteristics during battle then they would benefit more from winning to allow themselves more chances to show their skill. If they only received one performance it would be difficult to show themselves off, however, they would get sloppy further into the tournament as their stamina decreased.
Needless to say they would have to make their first battle count.
"This also means there is a chance that none of you will become Chunin based on the judges' scores. These are clients that might be looking to hire you one day and they will need to feel safe in knowing your ability to get the job done. If you cannot properly display these abilities key to a shinobi, you will fail."
Silence fell over those gathered as the information soaked in. Content that those gathered were well informed of the upcoming exam the Hokage nodded to himself before raising his voice one last time.
"This will conclude the preliminary rounds, we are adjourned until the next month."
The genin dispersed to their handlers while Naruto and Sakura idled. Her thoughts again reminded her of what Naruto said before the Hokage began speaking and she prepared to raise her concerns. She hesitated upon seeing Naruto smile and motion to the exit.
"Shall we head home Sakura?"
Still worried she could do nothing but nod and hope Naruto was alright. He rarely acted that strangely toward her and hoped that he would soon tell her what was the matter.
Little did Sakura know that a battle between two assassins had already begun.
000
Konohagakure
Hospital
000
"I don't think so."
Kabuto felt Naruto's strength on his wrist increase to the point where it would break, forcing his attack.
Naruto watched as the spy's other hand glowed green and launched toward his abdomen. With his speed he was able to latch onto Kabuto's other wrist and stop the attack in its tracks. They battled one another in a test of strength for a few moments before Kabuto realized Naruto was barely fazed at all.
In one fluid motion Naruto let go of Kabuto's wrist and elbowed him in the stomach, causing him to fly back a few feet and away from Karin's bed. With her out of danger Naruto revealed his hidden blade and charged forward intent on ending Kabuto's life. Without Orochimaru he would be hard pressed to escape so easily from the assassin's grasp.
Grabbing one of his kunai Kabuto put up a furious defense, blades meeting and clacking against one another in the cramped hospital room. Pushed against a wall, Kabuto narrowly avoided a punch by ducking his head; looking up he saw it had the strength to crack the foundation and leave an indent.
'He's not just fast but strong too..Orochimaru was right to be concerned.'
Naruto gave him little time to think as he went for another strike with his leg, too fast for Kabuto to put up a defense. The boot slammed into his cheek and sent him sliding to the other side of the room. Recovering just as Naruto was on him their weapons met again and their respective strengths matched.
Stalemate.
Naruto sent lightning chakra to his blade and cut through the kunai like butter forcing Kabuto to back away. Knowing he was at a disadvantage in kenjutsu Kabuto brought both arms up and fed chakra to his hands, creating deadly medical scalpels out out of them.
Naruto retracted his blade and got into a defensive stance with his blade arm in front and one arm limp at his side. Suddenly they were alight with a wisp of green wind chakra before the color disappeared leaving only the sound of a small storm to remind them the chakra remained.
Charging one another the two blocked and parried each attack with their hands and fists, chakra slamming against itself in short explosive skirmishes. Kabuto and Naruto's sleeves began to rip and tear from the intensity of the bladed chakra meeting one another and soon enough blood began to spill from both sides.
Even the experienced Kabuto was impressed with Naruto's unique style of taijutsu he had not come across in his days traveling the world. It seemed each clan of assassins taught their own style to increase their lethality in the field. It was clearly more than a match for him as he found himself slowly running out of stamina as the assassin pressed forward, seemingly still full of energy.
'I need to get out of this.'
Blocking a punch headed for his head that cut his cheek and sliced some hair, the Oto spy went on the offensive in a flurry of strikes that put the assassin on defense. Forcing him to back up Kabuto waited for the opportune moment before dropping to his knees and doing a sweeping kick. Naruto was forced to jump into the air and saw Kabuto reaching for his waist pouch.
Bringing his arms up in defense Naruto used the wind to deflect most of the oncoming shuriken but was still pushed back. He had a moment of pain as a few buried themselves within his skin. This moment of reprieve was enough for Kabuto to make a run for the door.
Karin's eyes went wide in concern for Naruto as he began to remove the painful weapons imbedded in his arms and leg. Upon seeing a sinister smile under his hood she turned her attention to the door to see Kabuto looking at someone outside.
"Going somewhere?"
Surprised, the Oto spy slowly backed himself into the room as Kakashi followed him in. The Konoha Jounin had noticed Naruto's substitution and followed the genin in curiosity. He had since been waiting for the right moment to reveal and corner Kabuto which he had seen trying to escape.
"Perfect.." Naruto ripped the last shuriken from his arm, blood splattering to the floor. "..timing Kakashi."
Ignoring concern for his student's condition Kakashi kept his attention on the medical chief's son. He was a lot more than what his profile said of his abilities and that worried the man, enough to make him consider the boy a real threat.
"I'm not sure what you're trying to accomplish by trying to harm a Kusa Shinobi, but openly engaging a fellow Konoha ninja is grounds for serious punishment. Does some kid like you understand that?"
Kabuto smirked as Kakashi continued to extrapolate on his charges against him.
"You're the spy from Orochimaru, aren't you?"
Silence only confirmed the answer.
"Capturing me now may not get you the evidence required to hold me as His accomplice."
Naruto scowled and brought forth his blade, as if he would give him the chance to escape.
"You die here Kabuto!"
Kakashi held up a hand.
"Don't do anything stupid Naruto. This guy..he isn't a normal shinobi."
"He dies right now!"
Kakashi saw Kabuto smile in reaction to Naruto's charge from behind and began to run forward in an attempt to stop him.
The medical ninja spun around and met Naruto's speed with his own. The aggressive stance left Naruto open to a pinpoint strike and so Kabuto sent a strike for his abdomen. What he didn't count on was that the blonde had been expecting the strike and positioned his body so that his shoulder would take the hit and also slam his weight into Kabuto.
Not expecting Naruto's reaction to be so fast the spy could only watch as his chakra blade cut a wound into Naruto's shoulder, eliciting a roar from the assassin. Weight pushing forward, Naruto took the pain and forced Kabuto backward, bringing his free blade arm up into a hook.
Kakashi watched as blood launched from both shinobi. Kabuto was able to free himself first by pushing Naruto back. Bleeding from a stab wound to his stomach, the medical ninja threw shuriken into the window and escaped through it with Kakashi close at his back.
Kakashi quickly went back to check on Naruto who had retracted his blade and wobbled over to Karin's bedside.
Although bleeding profusely from his wounds Naruto was still able to offer the frightened Karin a reassuring smile.
Kakashi knelt at Naruto's side and saw the wounds were becoming serious, despite his calm demeanor.
"Naruto, are you alright?"
He asked with an edge to his voice holding onto the boy's shoulder.
"I got him Kakashi..my poison..should finish the rest.."
Naruto slumped into unconsciousness from loss of blood taking the other two by surprise. The Jounin quickly ran out into the hallway and called for medical staff to treat his student.
Karin's eyes welled with tears and she struggled to touch him as he fell over her body. Even as the bed sheets soaked with blood her only concern was for the boy in front of her who had risked his life to save her.
'Please Naruto..stay alive!'
000
Kabuto took a break on a nearby rooftop and fell to a crouch, holding his bleeding stomach. As he began to apply healing chakra to seal the wound he felt a foreign substance traveling in his blood. Realizing the blade had been poisoned he quickly sought to remove it only to find it difficult to grasp with his chakra, like an eel in water.
'Damn..if I don't hurry I might really..'
Shuffling himself over to a shaded spot he sat down and began to push his limits in healing to keep himself alive. For once in a long time, Kabuto truly had the fear of death instilled within him.
000
Konohagakure
Apartments
Sand Shinobi Quarters
000
After ensuring the children of the Kazekage were properly in bed, Baki took his leave. With so much that had happened in Konohagakure since arriving he needed time to gather his thoughts. As part of the vanguard force of the invasion his contribution was extremely important to ensuring success.
With their plan to get Gaara through to the finals defeated by the Konoha assassin it would require more than just a simple calculation to decide what to do next. As it was impossible to predict Gaara's actions or give her orders it took a particularly skilled person to manipulate her into following a plan. The only reason the original worked was because she was promised great challenge from other shinobi.
Entering his quarters he quickly went to the bed and sat down, trying to find calm. It was not all lost as Temari and Kankuro had made it through to the end and he could keep a closer eye on Gaara. Still the plan had changed enough that he needed to report in.
Fumbling underneath the bed for a moment his hand found purchase and pulled out a large scroll. Only to be used under emergency circumstances he hesitated a moment remembering the words of his superiors. What if they would consider the mission a lost cause and leave him and the genin behind in Konoha, without support?
'Impossible, they can't risk losing Gaara. She's too useful even in her state..'
Slowly he unraveled the scroll and set it on the ground upon discovering it was some sort of summoning jutsu. Expecting an animal messenger to pop up he went through the necessary hand signs and fed proper chakra into the black circle drawn in ink.
A large amount of chakra could be felt surging through the seal and it forced Baki to take a few steps back in surprise. As the smoke cleared his body froze, not expecting the arrival of said person in front of him.
"K-Kazekage..sama?"
"You had better have good reason for this Baki. Report." The cloaked man demanded in a threatening tone.
Quickly gathering his thoughts the Jounin knelt in respect.
"Yes sir. I must report that Gaara has failed to enter the final exam. She was defeated by a Konoha shinobi and will be unable to enact the plan as is."
The Kazekage remained quiet his face hidden behind a cloth veil. Waiting for the answer was torture for Baki as he ran through all the negative possibilities that could come over him. Their leader was not a forgiving man and demanded excellence from the Suna shinobi, if a mission required all shinobi to die to fulfill it then it would be done without question.
"I see..this Konoha shinobi must have been very impressive to defeat Gaara in her current state."
"Yes Kazekage-sama, he was an assassin. Trained from birth to serve Konoha as a member of the Namikaze he displayed a level of skill that was too much for Gaara to handle without transforming."
The Kazekage narrowed his eyes upon hearing the identity of the fighter.
"That should be impossible, the Namikaze Clan was wiped out many years ago."
"Apparently..there was a survivor sir." Baki hesitated to give such news to the Kazekage but could not hold back.
After a pause of further silence the Kazekage began to speak again. His tone meant there was no room for error and so the Jounin paid full attention.
"Very well then, our plans will not change. Bring Gaara to the arena and ensure she has a clear view of all the matches. I sense that she will have a particular reaction to seeing this assassin on the field and it will trigger the transformation. From there we will carry out our plans as intended."
"Yes sir!"
With that the Suna leader disappeared back through the scroll of reverse summoning allowing Baki a moment of reprieve. Even with his leader being confident in the plan continuing Baki expressed doubts he dared not say in front of the Kazekage.
Regardless it was clear the girl had a certain disdain for the Namikaze so perhaps she would react properly. Knowing Gaara there would surely be enough happening in the arena to at least illicit some negative response cementing their plan of action. He only hoped they could control her properly when the time came or both sides would feel her wrath.
With fresh orders to take care of Baki took no break in preparing for the next month.
000
Konohagakure Outskirts
Namikaze Compound
000
After releasing himself from the hospital much to the chagrin of Kakashi and the medical staff, Naruto headed home as light waned. As darkness fell the forest became a much different beast than that of during the day. The nocturnal animals revealed themselves and wisps of wind combined with the howls of creatures that inhabited the dark underworld.
There was much on the young assassin's mind as he ran through the brush. Not only was he to train for a month to prepare for an upcoming tournament of shinobi but he also had to deal with the coming threat of Orochimaru. His moves were growing bolder as he not only sent his agents to attack freely within the village but revealed himself during the exams.
It meant that something very dangerous was coming to fruition with the Sannin's plan leading the charge.
'If I don't anticipate his next move and soon the danger to the village will be great.'
It was then he was reminded of his two latest charges. Capturing them during the exam was not very difficult and he questioned how much he could make use of them. Being lowly pawns it was clear they would know little of the overarching plan of their master, but he had to try.
If nothing else he would ensure they would serve a use to him until their deaths, the only proper way to repay a assassin was through blood.
Entering through the moss-ridden gate the blonde quickly made his way to the center building which served as his home. Even with the darkness he could still see the multitude of homes and barren streets that went untouched with the passing of his people. He wanted nothing more to restore the greatness that was once the Namikaze but that dream seemed fleeting at that point in his life.
For now he would settle with surviving long enough to see the Creed returned to Konoha.
Once inside the well kept interior of the Namikaze head's living space the blonde quickly removed his boots before entering. It felt as if he had been walking in them for many days and could not wait to sleep in a real bed. Even under his serious demeanor he was still human and enjoyed the few comforts he was allowed.
Before that however he had something to take care of.
He entered the living room where the two Oto shinobi had been deposited on the floor, stock still as if they had been frozen. Taking a seat in front of them so he would be the first thing they woke up to, the blonde created a hand seal and forced the awakening ritual. The process would be somewhat painful and should they try and rebel he could easily dominate them with nothing but a surge of chakra.
From what he could tell about their relationship with Orochimaru they were used to being ordered around under the threat of death. He expected them to adapt to the new situation quickly.
Not that they had much of choice in the matter.
Their forces contorted in pain as their bodies twitched and writhed on the cold wooden floor. Naruto waited patiently as they slowly opened their eyes and gathered their wits. The darkness shrouded him until the correct moment to reveal himself to the two.
Dosu pushed himself up with one arm and held his head in the other feeling a particularly strong headache. The last thing he remembered was fighting the assassin and being captured along with Kin. His lone eye wandered around the room but found it difficult to focus on objects, it was clear there was something affecting his mind. They weren't in the forest anymore either and that caused him some concern.
Kin fumbled a bit in getting to a low crouch finding her body sluggish after a long sleep. Her hand instinctively went to her neck as the last thing that she felt was great pain in that area. Somehow the assassin had captured and branded them with some seal but she couldn't sense any threat nearby. Wherever they were was comfortable but eerily quiet, unsettling them.
"Kin..where are we?"
Dosu croaked his throat dry. Even in their situation he still tried to take command of the situation which was something that had secretly annoyed the girl. She accepted it when they were around Orochimaru but now she was resisting the urge to ignore him.
"I was knocked out, same as you."
"We..we need to get out of here."
Dosu attempted to stand up but failed, his knees made of gel. Now on all fours the Oto ninja struggled again to focus on his surroundings and his chakra flow to escape the black haze. It frustrated him to no end when he was in a powerless position and his brain struggled to comprehend and handle the situation.
'Think..you were in the forest and captured by the Namikaze. He applied a chakra seal to your neck..' His hand instinctively felt the back of his neck, it was as if nothing had happened. '..and said you were to serve him. The only logical place we could be is..'
"Kin! We' are-"
"In my home. Yes, Dosu Kinuta you do catch on quick don't you?"
They froze to the new presence and watched as the black haze disappeared from their vision allowing them to focus on their surroundings. In front of them sat the assassin that had so easily defeated their entire squad, humiliated them, and murdered one of their teammates. On instinct they attempted to defend themselves but found themselves to weak to even properly stand, let alone hold a weapon.
"Assassin!" The bandaged shinobi growled before crying out in pain and grabbing for his neck, feeling the seal act up.
Even through the pain he was still able to hear Kin's scream and saw her forced to the ground, writhing in pain. On all fours the leader of the two glared at Naruto who was watching with little interest.
"Leave..her..alone.." Was all he was able to say through gritted teeth, but it got through.
A few moments later they were granted a reprieve and watched their opponent as he observed them.
"Kneel."
Exchanging glances the two could do little but obey, getting onto one knee. Naruto slowly got up and watched as their eyes followed them and yet their bodies remained submissively on the ground. He could feel their killer intent but could smell their fear oozing from their bodies.
"Your names."
His voice hit their eardrums but in a pleasant manner, it shocked them. How was it that their enemy's voice was pleasing? The way he spoke calmly and respectively to them appealed to their hearts but his strong undertone reminded them of his dominant place.
With Orochimaru he twisted and manipulated using whatever tone was necessary to get the order across. At first seductive and pleasing to listen to the Oto shinobi knew it was all a farce. He had abandoned them, sent them on a fool's errand to reveal and test the assassin's abilities. They were nothing to him and now they were forced under a new master.
Regardless of their feelings they had no choice but to answer.
"Dosu Kinuta."
"Kin Tsuchi."
Naruto paced in front of them, slowly and deliberately to give their eyes a distracting focus. He was lulling them into a comfortable position to earn what little trust they were willing to give. After the betrayal from their previous master he would seem a godsend to them; if not, there were other ways to ensure they obeyed.
"Rank?"
"Genin."
They answered simultaneously and were still surprised they were so easily giving him the answer he wished. Was it self preservation or were they starting to feel comfortable by his presence?
"Tell me what your objective was during the Second Exam."
They exchanged glances, to give the truth would be a betrayal of Orochimaru's trust. Again they were rudely reminded of Naruto's words describing them as pawns. A fate they had been denying since entering his service only to find the truth out much quicker than they would have liked.
"We were ordered.." Dosu swallowed the lump in his throat and balled his fists. "To kill Sasuke Uchiha."
"Did you know Sasuke had the cursed seal?"
Dosu frowned, one of the many things Orochimaru lied to them about.
"No."
Naruto stopped pacing and looked back down at them. Hand grasping his chin he seemed to be taking great interest in their words, as if he didn't already know the answer. Another tactic to bring out their complacency.
"Did you know you would be facing two trained assassins, also on the team?"
That was an exaggeration, but Sakura was progressing nicely in her training.
"No, we were only given our orders. We were led to believe our skills would outmatch yours.."
Kin chimed in as Dosu hesitated. She too was tired of obeying blindly and wanted revenge on her old master, if giving up such information was what it took she would gladly tell him what she knew.
"From this conclusion, would you say Orochimaru sent you to fight completely prepared? Or that he saw you as expendable?"
This was the turning point before he would push the point he was trying to make into their hearts. It was with a little surprise to the blonde when without much hesitation Dosu bitterly mumbled his answer.
"To him..we were nothing but pawns."
Under his cloak, Naruto smiled.
"Now you see what kind of a monster your old master was. To him, any life is expendable but his own. Any life..do you understand?"
They could not meet his eyes in shame but nodded.
"I will be blunt. At the moment I am not sure what to do with you, but I know that for your attack on my team I cannot forgive you easily."
They began to realize this conversation would lead to their fates, whether they lived another day or died silently in the night. The words and choices they made would have a lasting effect on their lives, even more so perhaps than the oath they were now ready to break.
"I will be your new master. You will serve me..or.." He paused, forcing them to look up at him for an answer he gave with little emotion. "..you will die. Do you understand?"
Dosu began to rage inside. He was being tossed away by one master and then sent to another. It was not something he could accept even in the position they were in now. Despite his body protesting he stood to full height, stumbling somewhat, before raising his healed melody arm for an attack.
With one quick hand seal Naruto forced chakra to the seals and brought a surge of pain that forced the bandaged teen to his knees. Growling he again tried to stand only to see Naruto turn the attack on the submissive Kin, eliciting a painful scream as she fell to the ground again.
Dosu's eyes widened and saw that his rebellion would not only lead him to ruin but Kin as well. The only friend he had left he could not stand to see her harmed in his stead and knelt to Naruto again.
"I swear.." He gritted his teeth and took the pain that Naruto continued to shoot through his veins. "..to serve you..Naruto..Namikaze!"
Immediately Naruto's hand dropped and allowed them both reprieve. Although they were enemies and he held no special bond to them, Naruto did not like inflicting torture or pain on another. It was against the teachings of the assassins to let an opponent suffer.
"Kin Tsuchi, what say you?"
The girl struggled to get back up and knelt, swearing fealty to Naruto as Dosu did. Although she had little choice and had just been jolted with pain she could never imagine, there was something telling her that the assassin in front of them was not inherently evil like Orochimaru. It was an improvement, however small.
Naruto looked at Dosu and saw his glare, the hate boiled within him. Even though he was a logical boy he was fiercely independent after becoming disillusioned with his former master. To go to another one so quickly and to be so cruelly hurt was not something he would take simply.
"Very well then. You two will live here for now until the Chunin Exams finish and until then I expect you to stay in this compound. Your old master must believe in your deaths or else he will seek you out to finish the job."
As Naruto prepared to leave Dosu mumbled something that made him turn.
"What did you say?" He asked with an edge to his voice.
Although frightened the bandaged shinobi had enough pride to repeat his insult.
"What..makes you any better than Orochimaru? We are still pawns to you, still servants to be used."
Naruto turned and knelt in front of Dosu bringing their gaze to the same level. With a quiet but strong tone Naruto responded with words that would echo within the two Oto shinobi's minds for many years as a source of encouragement.
"Orochimaru uses his pawns to further his own gains and expends them to benefit his own self. I use my servants to protect those who cannot protect themselves and would sacrifice my life for any of them."
He stood up and began to leave, stopping at the doorway to look back at the stunned shinobi.
"Perhaps one day you too will understand the difference."
000
Konohagakure
Team 7 Training Grounds
000
It was early morning when Team 7 chose to meet up for planning the next month of training. As each member had successfully passed to the Third Exam it would mean each would have to have some sort of training plan in order to succeed and keep themselves busy. Standing on the small red bridge that was built over the stream running through their training ground, each shinobi had their own plans.
While Sakura most likely planned to train with Naruto she wasn't sure if it would be a great idea if they were going to take the arena fight seriously. He had yet to say much to her and for that she was somewhat concerned.
When Kakashi arrived all eyes were back on him although the atmosphere had changed. The three genin had gone through some very difficult trials that made each a little more mature to the world around them. It showed in their step, their gaze, their stance, their thoughts.
"Let's get right into it. Since each of you passed through to the final round, each will need a training regimen to prepare for the upcoming tournament." He turned the Uchiha. "Sasuke, have you had any thoughts for yours?"
"Don't bother Kakashi. I've decided to train in my own compound for the month and learn from the old scrolls of the Uchiha."
This surprised the Jounin as he had expected him to seek out a strong teacher.
"Are you sure Sasuke? I can find someone to help.."
The boy just grunted and let him move onto Sakura.
"Sakura? You are going up against Naruto..are you sure you want to train together knowing that?"
The pink head twiddled with her fingers and wished her hood was up so she could hide. Sakura was unsure if Naruto wanted to train her further and his silence only seemed to confirm her fears. A hand on her shoulder brought unexpected warmth as Naruto spoke for her.
"Sakura still has much to learn if she wants to beat me, but I'm fine with losing if she is the one getting stronger. We will get more training together than apart anyway."
Faith restored Sakura smiled at Naruto who nodded in response. Kakashi just scratched his head as he should have expected that kind of response, the two were inseparable.
"Alright..and I'm going to suppose you want to stay at home too yes?"
Silence answered him and it brought on a sigh. Sometimes he wondered who was the tougher to work with, him or his students.
"Sasuke, I'll be coming over every other day to help with your training and check your seal." Not what the boy wanted to hear, Sasuke shrugged but knew better than to argue.
"And I will be coming to your compound to coach you and Sakura. There are a few tricks I can still teach you both."
Naruto and Sakura exchanged glances before shrugging.
"Sure Kakashi-sensei, if that's what you think is best."
"It is. As much as the month seems like a long time it will be difficult to get any sizable difference in skill unless you work hard together and really focus on particular strengths. I'll do my best to keep you on track."
After a little more small talk the group went their separate ways with Sakura tagging along with Naruto as per usual. This time the blonde hesitated in his pace and turned to Sakura as if he suddenly remembered something.
"Sakura, can you make it to my compound on your own?"
Her brow creased but she nonetheless nodded. They had made enough trips together she had perfected the route.
"I have a few errands to run so why don't you head out first. I won't be long."
With that said he was gone and Sakura was left alone in the street. She was still getting used to his sudden exits but was finally starting to accept Naruto was just a busy person. He had so much to think of and worry about as the last member of his clan and his duty to the Creed.
It was the subtle things that reminded her of his feelings; a smile, a touch, words of comfort. When times were tough she would remember them and draw strength. And so she did as she carried herself through the village with a smile, proud to be with the Namikaze.
000
Konohagakure
Shimizu Household
000
Ai was just finishing up her cleaning of the main room when she heard the window in the back squeak open. Having not been visited by the Naruto in some time the two had started to get worried. They kept their ears open for tales of his exploits but wondered if he had forgotten them.
When the assassin entered the room from the back warehouse the girl sighed in relief. It seemed her father's talk of doom had been for not.
"Ai?"
Naruto at first didn't recognize her as she had her long brown hair in a ponytail and was a bit dusty from cleaning. The girl nodded and quickly took off her work apron and brushed the dust that had accumulated on her face away.
"Ah yes Naruto-sama! I would look more proper but I wasn't expecting you."
She quickly ran to her place behind the counter as he approached, watching him stifle a laugh and felt her face flush. The nice boy he was Naruto ignored the girl's quirks and proceeded to order supplies to prepare himself for the training in the upcoming month.
"We have heard that you entered the Chunin Exams, is that true Naruto-sama?"
"Yes, I'm heading for the final rounds in a month's time."
"From what we heard shinobi from all over the land are participating. It must be a lonely thing being the only assassin participating."
Naruto paused, he had not thought of that. It was true that the Namikaze were an exception being considered a part of the village of Konoha rather than an independent clan. Most of the other villages had their assassins in positions of power and often found themselves as leaders from the shadows; the Namikaze were instead culled and chained like pets from an outsider's point of view.
It was below the assassins in other villages to enter into a shinobi contest like the Chunin Exams. From Naruto's perspective he learned from his father it was better to learn both the art of assassination and the art of shinobi to form a strong symbiotic relationship between the cultures. If his father could do it and become Hokage, what would be his result of following the same path?
Shaking his head of such thoughts he thought of a quick answer.
"It gives me the advantage as no one has ever seen an assassin fight, especially a Namikaze."
Ai smiled, remembering many stories her father would tell of his times assisting the assassins in the field. He described their fighting style as quick, elegant, and somewhat haughty as if they taunted the opponent's skill until their death.
"I would very much enjoy seeing you fight Naruto-sama. It must be quite a sight."
The blonde just smiled as he handed over the proper amount of money.
"You can, convince your father to attend the Third Exam as a spectator. It would give you time to observe shinobi and assassins in a more natural habitat." He meant fighting of course but the girl seemed quite excited about the prospect.
"Do you mean it Naruto-sama? I could come and watch?"
"Of course."
Her smile was almost infectious and he could not help but stare for longer than he should. Collecting himself a moment later he remembered something important.
"Ai, I need your help with something."
The girl became curious and was all ears as the boy summoned the courage to ask what seemed to be a difficult question for him.
"What..kind of flowers do you give to someone sick?"
000
Konohagakure
Private Gardens
000
"So..you failed again Kabuto?"
"I'm sorry Orochimaru-sama. I had not anticipated Naruto or Kakashi to take interest in Karin."
The Sannin looked at his servant with much disdain but saw that the wounds he suffered at the hands of the two Konoha shinobi were causing him enough pain already. The poison was difficult and time consuming to remove and still left him with great pain and partial paralysis that would take even more time to heal. It was enough of a punishment, Orochimaru thought, for the boy's foolishness.
The two stood together in a large garden that stood behind the apartments Orochimaru was staying at under the guise of the Sound Jounin. After realizing his squad of shinobi had been killed he had been going through the motions with the Konoha shinobi to investigate and search for their bodies. Not that it mattered much to him but only served as another way the children annoyed him even after death.
"I suppose I should be happy with this." Kabuto looked up in surprise to see Orochimaru form a smile. "You see after I sent you off I had a bit of time to think and decided Karin's talents are still too useful to waste by killing her."
The man turned to his servant and indicated he look himself over.
"The pain inflicted on you by Naruto should be a sound reminder of what failure means Kabuto. After you finish recovering I'll have you collect Karin before the fighting starts. We can't afford for her to get lost or revealed as a spy."
"What of the Kusa Jounin? She has been with them for some time, they won't let her disappearance go without an investigation."
That mattered little to Orochimaru. As spies Kabuto and Karin knew better than anyone how non-permanent their assignments were. After they recovered her Karin would enact one of her many escape plans to get the Kusa shinobi off her trail, most likely faking her own death during the confusion of the coming battle.
"Allow Karin to handle that upon freeing her. We must act carefully as to not step on any more toes until the plan is set into motion. Avoid contact as much as possible..you are dismissed."
Kabuto bowed.
"Yes, Orochimaru-sama."
Orochimaru waited until the boy left before signaling for another to emerge from the garden's shroud. Kneeling in respect to her master, the fiery red head waited to hear his reason for requesting her presence before the invasion.
"Tayuya..I have a special mission for you."
She looked into his eyes, those cold reptilian yellow orbs that struck a deep chord of fear within her. With little emotion she responded as one would to a master that one had served for so long.
"Yes..Orochimaru-sama."
000
Konohagakure
Hospital
000
A knock on the door made Karin turn to see Naruto come in with a bouquet of flowers.
Since yesterday she had finally been allowed to get off painkillers and the respirator, now laying in her bed and watching outside was the most fun she had. With her bed inclined in the front it was much more comfortable to speak with people and get a better view of the windows. It also gave Naruto a better view of the girl in her gown and he not so subtly looked away in embarrassment when she caught his stare.
She was happy for a moment upon seeing Naruto but then somewhat lost her chipper attitude upon remembering the events of yesterday. In a certain way it was her fault he had sustained such ugly wounds.
Noticing her frown, the blonde brought the flowers up quickly and urged her to take them. With Ai's help he had been able to pick out a few specific flowers to convey a bit of a message to her and he hoped she would understand his intent. Even with interaction between him and Sakura he still had a difficult time conveying his feelings in words, especially with girls.
Upon seeing her smile again it made him loosen up a bit, enough to take off his hood. He rarely did it outside of the compound and only when he was comfortable with the people around him.
As it was the first time she had gotten to see his face so clearly the girl could not help but blush a bit. His nervousness combined with the warmth of his chakra was very cute to her. Being in a situation like that, even if it was in less than happy circumstances, was a rare treat for Karin.
"Thank you Naruto..it was very thoughtful."
"Hmm..I had to spend some time picking the right ones. I had no idea there was a language behind each type of flower."
Karin looked at the ones he had chosen as she somewhat prided herself on knowledge, particularly in herbs and general flora.
'White Camellias and red Azaleas to signify him patiently waiting for my recovery and..a Daffodil?'
"You..respect me?"
She asked in a different tone he had heard her use before; it wasn't bubbly and flirtatious as her past encounters with him. It was deeper, more normal of a voice that he could speak to normally. He liked it.
"Yes..very much so."
The blonde wandered over to the window and opened the glass pane to allow a gentle breeze through.
"To carry such a smile and attitude and have to bury it under a fake identity and indifference is such a shame."
Her eyes widened and she leaned forward in her bed, hoping she had heard wrong. Fake identity?
"What do you-"
Naruto just smiled, a truly sad smile.
"You are Orochimaru's second spy, are you not?"
The girl leaned back into the bed as her secret was revealed. She would have rather have kept it from him for the short time they were to know each other, but it made sense he would see through the deception.
"It's fine, you don't have to answer. I won't hold it against you without knowing the full story of your past.."
'Those eyes of yours..' He looked back and met her gaze, those red orbs hid a very powerful bloodline. 'How could he not want them?'
Karin realized now that her flirtatious side she had so far displayed in front of him had not had the effect she desired. Although it wasn't a mask as she truly did act that way around men she liked, it was her hope he would not see her as she normally was; a spy that was quick to temper, controlling, and tough to deal with. She also had her calm moments which was the mood she was currently in, and it showed in her words.
"If you know who I really am, why aren't you stopping me? Don't you realize the danger I can cause?"
Naruto just nodded, he had considered the risks. Some thought had already gone into killing her if necessary but there was a voice in his head saying otherwise. There was a chance to turn her to his side.
"I'd like to think that all but the worst of humans can change. Someone like Orochimaru..is too far gone for the crimes he has committed. You.."
Naruto folded his arms and leaned against the window, gathering his thoughts.
"There is a good side to you, he hasn't broken it yet."
Karin looked away, it was better to not dwell on such ideas. Her thoughts of escaping from Orochimaru's grasp had disappeared many years ago after he had discovered her. Being around him she knew his methods, the way he treated people like pets or objects to be used and thrown away.
She also knew how he could react to losing said people and it would only endanger those she stayed with.
"It's better if you don't become too friendly with me. No good can come from it."
It hurt to say as the assassin had literally risked his life for her, but if he pursued his goal it would only lead to danger for them both. Orochimaru was not someone to make an enemy out of as Konoha would soon find out.
"I've weighed the risks..and I think you are worth it."
Karin turned back to him in surprise to see him on the window sill, preparing to leap out. How he could he leave after saying something like that so strongly?
Placing his hood back on, Naruto turned back to Karin and gave her a real smile.
"I'll come visit you again tomorrow. Take care, Karin."
She watched him disappear out into the world. Long after he was gone his words still echoed in her head, as loudly and clearly as the first time he said them. That was the first time anyone had said she had value and meant it, not even Orochimaru could say the same.
Everyone else only saw what she let them see, but Naruto had broken down each of Karin's secrets on his own and still found worth in her. Something worth smiling at, she was worth something to someone for more than her abilities or looks.
Despite herself, Karin had a smile on for the rest of the day.
000
And that brings us to the end of this chapter of Namikaze Assassin. Not a lot of action but this chapter and the next are mostly for information, character development, and general filler until the Third Exam starts.
Look forward to a more in-depth look at the Namikaze bloodline in the next chapter as he explains where he gets his legendary speed from. We will also see a bit more into Sakura's progression as a Healer as she takes further lessons from Naruto during his training with Kakashi.
We will also find out just what Tayuya's mission is and why it was important enough for Orochimaru to pull her away early for his plans.
Last but not least we will hopefully see another of the Sannin come to town and get some more backstory on his difficult relationship with Minato Namikaze and how that friction will carry over to Naruto.
Plenty more to come as we progress to the climax of the Chunin Exam arc!
Review!
See ya in Mercenary for Hire next where Naruto will also be meeting with Tayuya, Orochimaru's liaison in Tokyo!