A/N - I do not own Naruto. What I do own however is feelings, so instead of using this space to write some witty asshole remark at a feeble attempt to make some of you laugh I'm gonah dedicate it to a very nice individual that put in three very informative, detailed and quite frankly flattering reviews as well as helpful pointers. Namikaze, I salute you; it would not allow me to reply to you due to your settings so I'll do it through this. You know who you are! :)
Chapter Eight - Thrown In At the Deep End
Sasuke stood still, leaning against the wall and intently listening to the battle plan of his teammates, needless to say it was one of the more interesting topics of conversation.
Hanging onto every word was a single Chunin, a strange kid, not much older than himself at sixteen; he hadn't talked much to the girl who seemed to be quite shy and to his knowledge pretty emotionless, the girl had a poker face to kill for, that being said she was certainly capable and their last raid had proved as much. On that note he hadn't talked much at all on the mission, he would add his two scents when necessary and he had cooperated as expected but he predominantly spoke when spoken too, never starting the conversation.
The other Chunin of the group was quite unlike this, a little loud mouthed, obviously an air head and eyes bigger than his stomach, that was what Sasuke took from observing him anyway; in his opinion these were bad traits of a Shinobi.
'Overconfidence is cool and all but if you don't have ability to back it up then you're literally as useless as a white crayon,' Naruto's words rung through his ears causing him to crack a smile, he actually missed the twit a little, not in having a longing to be around him or anything but the guy was a laugh as well as a measuring method, one that he was constantly trying to pass.
Discarding his thoughts, two onyx eyes focused back towards his leader. He had come to know that his name was Genma Shiranui, a calm leader who was very impartial, collected and proud. Without having to say it, he and the Tokubetsu Jonin had got on like two peas in a pod, never managing to string more than a few short sentences together both were straight to the point and strictly business. He was given an order sharply, he replied sharply, this suited him and the leader perfectly.
Shoulder length brown hair framing both sides of his face was covered by a bandana styled forehead protector and to finish his cool demeanour the man was never seen without a senbon in his mouth, "We flank both sides and hit hard. You both know all the positions by now, Sasuke on the left, Kotone on the right; as usual I'll go centre and this time Midori will be over watch, if he see's anything go wrong he'll be able to intercept it and strike before anything occurs, remember, no casualties. This is strictly capture and return. Are we good?"
Sasuke simply nodded his head before turning to leave however the complaint of Midori got his attention.
"That's garbage, why am I not on the front? Sasuke's only a Genin, I'm stronger than him therefore I should be on the right, not sitting back and watching him." Hands positioned firmly on the table it was all too clear it meant a lot to the young Chunin.
Genma's only sign of frustration was the shuffle of his senbon, one side of the mouth to another, "We all know what happened last time, if it weren't for Sasuke's timely intervention then you'd be a dead man." The leader's eyes then turned to Sasuke expecting him to comment.
Sasuke knew all too well what that look meant. The classical, 'this guy is delusional, help me out here so I don't offend him any more than I have too.' Genma was a peacemaker, he didn't want to outright berate the teen's poor performance on the last bandit camp so he had asked Sasuke to back him up.
Sasuke had matured since his younger days, on a different day and age he might of responded in a taunting fashion but he wasn't bothered, "If he wants to get himself killed... let him," he locked eyes with the smirking Chunin, dancing eyes meeting his bored ones, "Just don't blame me when the club goes through your head instead of smacking against my kunai." At that he turned away leaving behind very shocked Midori, mouth agape and pale. Clear nervousness was evident on his face as he idly wandered if what Sasuke said was true.
Needless to say, Sasuke got to keep his position on right side for the upcoming raid.
"What's wrong Ino-san, you seem to be awfully quiet today?"
The question of her temporary teammate quickly knocked her out of her thoughts and she continued her walk on the long road back to Konoha, "Sorry Hanako-san, just a little lost in thought," She finished with a chuckle before asking, "How long will it take to get back, I'm really missing Konoha."
Hanako smirked, "Oh, is there a reason for this? If I didn't know any better, it's because of that boy Naruto I've heard so much about, or maybe the famed Sasuke Uchiha?"
Being young herself, the ginger haired Jonin knew all about what went through a young girl's mind so it was no surprise when Ino fired back all too quickly dismissing her teasing, "I'm just kidding, you'd do best to stay away from boy's, especially that first one."
Ino picked up on the tone, "Huh, Naruto's a pretty nice guy! I mean he's an ass but once you get to know him he's not so bad. Not as bad as I thought anyway." She didn't know what the think of that; her Jonin leader had not so much as uttered a bad word throughout their mission so to come out and say that was strange, "Do you know Naruto?"
"Know of him." She continued with a small purse of her lips, "The general view of the other Jonin and Chunin is that he's a liability. Talented and no doubt skilled, he's also overconfident and cocky, people don't want to team up with people like that because they get others killed." It was in some ways true.
Ino remained silent.
She had bonded pretty close to Naruto and Sasuke, she considered them both friends and she had longed moved past her fan girl days. 'Once the training started Kakashi made sure to beat it out of me.' In hindsight it was pretty simple, Kakashi-sensei had laid into her so many times that she didn't have time to focus on Sasuke, and she had to make sure she was able enough to deal with training. That in itself decreased her infatuation with the Uchiha and now they were simple friends.
Naruto was no different. A hopeless flirt that she didn't have time to worry about, and by flirt, Naruto just treated her like he'd treat anyone.
She discarded the thought and piped up as her usual self, "You never did answer my question."
Hanako placed a hand on her hip as they walked, "It took a few days to get here so I can't imagine it'll be long. We have to rendezvous with another team at the border though and that's only if we keep to schedule."
Ino clapped her hands in determination, "Good, we'll be home by the end of the week and it's also plenty of time for you to teach me another Jutsu." She knew Sasuke was somewhere in the country raiding bandit camps so he was no doubt getting experience. Naruto would be training no matter where he was.
She had to keep up.
"You should try to relax during what little time we have off, I don't see why you're so quick to get back?" Kotetsu's questioning voice was directed to his leader who was walking at a faster pace in front of him through the capital streets, needless to say, Keshi wasn't enjoying the luxuries the capital had to offer.
Keshi grumbled, "Nothings worse that killing time in this place, no space to yourself, always noisy and bustling, why would people chose to live here." The outer parts, or restricted parts like the palace where fine but he really did hate the rest of the city.
This time it was Izumo to tease their captain, "A part of me expected you to completely let loose when you got the chance, I guess those stories about the blowout Keshi aren't true after all; everyone said you were really strict and to the point but when the chance to let loose arose you always took it."
Izumo gave Kotetsu a dig in the ribs accompanied by a shit eating grin, "What was it? Ahh, yes; The fun, freaky and fertile Keshi was a notorious party animal, cool and composed but a slayer in the clubs, a true legend indeed."
Keshi didn't even look back, "Trust me kid, both of you, no, everyone calms down once they get a little older." He stopped for a brief second and shook his head and smiled, "Let me rephrase that, everyone but that brat will."
After a round of laughs Kotetsu's face slowly became a little more serious as he thought, "Say is everything all good with Naruto, he's been acting a little differently. I mean he's still the same old Naruto but as soon as his shifts over he'll locks himself up in his room, I asked him to come with us but he never turned up. What's the deal?" He hadn't known the preteen for very long but he could tell he wasn't his usual self.
Izumo knew the answer to that one all right, "He asked to borrow some money off me the other day and the little scamps been hiding. I haven't seen him since." He blew the hair out of his eyes in frustration. Something about needing money for a restaurant and that he'd pay him back ASAP. Shoulders slumped, he probably wouldn't be seeing that money again.
Keshi just shook his head dismissing the previous statement and sighed, "There's no use keeping it from you nor a reason." He dropped back closer to the others and made sure nobody was near, "Somehow Naruto was able to figure out about you know what; that he's its host."
He let the two take this in for a few seconds, Izumo just lowered his head and shook it while Kotetsu responded in a lousy tone, "Damn, can't imagine what'd that be like, how's he taking it?" It was a rhetorical question in a sense, obviously nobody is going to take that sort of news well, more like beating around the bush to see how Naruto was coping with the reveal.
"As you can probably tell by his actions, he hasn't been taking it too bad but he has a lot to think about, according to Koharu, a lot that either me or you don't know so give him some time." He couldn't truly imagine what else could be considered when somebody had just found out about hosting a Bijuu, that was beyond him but if Koharu's words were true then he truly pitied the boy.
Kotetsu was along the same line of thought but before he could question it he was silenced by a shake of Keshi's head. It wasn't there business and the three men understood that.
It wasn't long before the conversation started flowing again, although each of them were thinking of their teammate it was beyond their help, what were they supposed to say, 'I know how you feel but it's going to be okay.' No that wasn't gonah work, the best thing to do would be to simply not mention it, treat him no different and like it didn't matter because everyone wanted to be treated fairly and normal. It was as simple as that.
Constantly being on the ball and thinking ahead Keshi was the one to bring up their schedule, "You two are on duty shortly after we get back, I want more guards positioned around the perimeter, and we don't want people sneaking in. I also want Akainu to be on duty tonight.
As he continued listening to orders Izumo walked by a sweet stall and plucked out a small puccho candy bag while putting the required money in its place, "I don't think he'll be too happy about that, it would be his third shift in a row."
Keshi just sighed, "Just make sure he's paid well, God knows the Daimyo can afford it. Now let's get back, I want to make sure everything's prepared and security is tight for the next meeting."
It was all too clear by his stance that Keshi was about to interrupt their leisurely stroll through the city by running on back home and in so bringing them with him, this wouldn't do. "What has you so rushed anyway," Kotetsu gave a hearty laugh and a pat on the shoulder, "Where nearly finished with these meetings and a fly hasn't got close to our defences without us knowing. Nobody's attacked and by the looks of it nobody will." He could understand Keshi's constant drive and perfection for missions, he respected it but they were doing just fine. The meeting wouldn't start for a few hours yet anyway.
Nabbing a sweet the elder Shinobi just grimaced, "Nobody has dared to attack the capital let alone the palace since the meeting of the five Gorogami...hopefully their fate is enough to stop anyone else stupid enough from attacking the Daimyo. Although the deed is far from the same I'm hoping potential attackers don't see it that way."
Kotetsu and Izumo hardened their faces once they heard of the five Gorogami, each failing to stop a grimace before Kotetsu spoke up, "When I asked you back in Konoha you said you were sure that this mission wouldn't go through without some hassle, why are you sticking by this. There's been no sign of anything fishy, it's been all clear skies and easy going." Of course they hadn't mentioned anything to Naruto but the kid knew and was reminded to be ready and on edge at all times which is all that they knew.
This wasn't some fairy tale or adventure, this was the real world and people did bad things for even worse reasons.
He held his village in high regard, he fought for it and would die for it but that didn't mean it was a clean one. Konoha no Sato held the golden reputation that every village desired and yet with his large time in the job he knew things that he would be better off not knowing, knew of silenced secrets that he probably shouldn't and had been required to take part in acts he was unauthorised to talk about.
The point was that no matter the importance of a job or mission the details didn't always remain in the right hands, weather this be on purpose, an intruder in the village, maybe even a spy. Although vague, he summed up their situation, "If you knew what's been going on in them meetings you'd be cautious too, especially what's taking place tonight. I thought something would have happened by now and if I'm correct, tonight's their last night to do so." He finished his warning by spitting the piece of candy out, the sour taste it was leaving wasn't to his liking.
Naruto calmly paced his room not a word being said or moment wasted as he casually walked in its shape. Azure eyes locked onto the doorway giving it a sharp glare before moving to the window, it received one too.
Everyone had different ways for dealing with what Naruto was going through right now. Some people would shut down, maybe even go into denial; others would build up a hatred of something or another and then there was the last and final result. Some people would go into shock; having an experience so traumatic, so life changing that it literally shot down everything they ever thought, believed or dreamed was the reasoning behind what made you, you.
Naruto was none of these three people.
"What the fuck. I'm so bloody stupid!"
Again silence filled the room for another few minutes before the action, glares and all was repeated. It hadn't been the first time that day and it definitely wouldn't be the last.
He grunted out in frustration and slapped himself on the forehead, "Fuck!"
In times like these, the blonde's verbal capacity was often reduced to a few rather choice words. Naruto repeated the swear word again as he continued to pace.
Hitting a dead end Naruto again ran through everything, 'So I'm the Kyuubi Jinchuriki that much is certain. What else?' He thought through everything this told him. It was an obvious one that he wasn't supposed to know, most likely the Hokage was going to be telling him shortly and then there was the side thought that the Daimyo in some way wanted him to know this.
He quickly threw that out of his mind. With all these revelations that was unimportant, who cared if the Daimyo wanted to know him? 'It also explains why everybody treats me like they do,' he released a sigh, 'Well now I've at least got an answer.' He guessed he must of been in an unconscious denial not to recognise it, everyone with half a brain knew that a Bijuu couldn't be killed, he knew that himself from no age, it appeared in history books often enough for him to consider it common sense.
After the famed Kyuubi attack all he was ever told was that it was defeated. The great Kyuubi no Kitsune was no more. He again let out a curse. He refused to accept that he didn't recognise this, somewhere in his mind he must of, all the signs were there but denial kept him from realisation, kept him from putting the pieces together until he was literally presented with all of them. 'Stupid Chakra levels and regeneration powers.' He bit down on his thumb and watched as the small cut instantly closed over with a small sizzle only making him shake his head.
How did he not realise this, it was literally a part of him.
Not thinking anything of it he stripped down on a whim before standing in front of the full mirror in his room, 'If this things inside me, where's the seal?' He wasted no time channelling Chakra, like flexing a muscle he released a deep breath before willing it out.
No reaction.
"More?" He answered his question by calling upon more of the source, small unnoticeable cracks formed where he stood and his body held the familiar light blue shimmer that was Chakra but nothing else, as he was about to give up though he saw small tendril like pointers crawling over his shoulders, jet black and eerie he went against his gut feeling and channelled more before they snaked inwards and up his neck before stopping about half way up either side.
Before being able to think on this two more appeared and stayed just below the tips of his shoulders causing him to grimace, at first glance he knew exactly what it was, 'Fuinjutsu.' His silent whisper was followed by turning his back on the mirror revealing a small circular seal placed on the base of his back.
He took a long and hard stare at the Fuinjutsu on display and all the self-proclaimed prodigy in the art could muster was a sigh, "What the hell is even going on." He could briefly make out the basic foundations of a transfer system but that was it, everything else was so complex and intricate he couldn't make it out let alone try and read it.
Moving his eyes from it he saw four more jet black tendrils. Like the last ones they snaked across his skin in symmetry, this time two curved down his ribcage before stopping at either side of his hips, the other two exited the main seal straight and parallel with each other following his spine and then stopping at his tail bone. To be quite frank he was surprised he had never noticed them before, that being said, when did he ever train shirtless?
He nodded his head dumbly, "I should definitely have done that. I think I'll do that more often." The fact that he had this sort of thing on him and didn't know really freaked him out; he was a clinical machine, that's what the Hokage said anyway. The average nose could remember fifty thousand scents, an adult has around a hundred thousand miles of blood vessels, Hell, and he even knew that people with blue eyes like him have a higher alcohol tolerance so not knowing about... whatever the hell this was. His reaction was understandably eccentric.
"My guess is that they're part of the seal, so if I cut the Chakra-" He did so, "Then they'll disappear." Just like he hypothesised the marking slowly faded back before coiling around the seal, it too then vanished leaving no trace of where it once sat. He wasn't going to lie, the seal looked demonic, it didn't have the slow curves and rounded edges like others he had seen or even the basics that he made, it was irregular and jagged and gave off an oppressing feel. One glance at it and you could guess it wasn't for simple sealing of Kunai or Shuriken that much was for certain.
There was a big ass fox chilling in him, he finally had an answer to why he was the way he was, why he was treated the way he was. He again looked at himself in the mirror, azure eyes falling onto bright spiky blonde hair with fiery red tips, he scowled, 'Now what famous man stopped the Kyuubi and looked pretty similar to me?'
The killer?
He knew all about one Kushina Uzumaki.
He shook his head dismissing those thoughts, it wasn't even a guess. It had been something he had asked countless times, something he always wanted to know and something he looked forward to finding out, so why did he feel... nothing.
Had it yet to sink in?
No that wasn't it. He was well aware of these revelations and he definitely wasn't in shock. Minato Namikaze was his father. Bokuyo Namikaze was his granddad.
If it existed, somewhere up in God knows where Zuko Namikaze was watching his only living descendant find the truth of his ancestry, he grimaced, "I've got a lot to live up too, huh?" The question was asked to nobody in particular, nobody was listening to him either but in a way this was symbolic and he knew it. From this point onward his life would be different no matter what.
He didn't know how to feel about that. The dreams of a little boy longed for this, longed for this sort of recognition, no longer had he drew the short end of the straw and it felt weird.
He had always prided himself on his power, on his honed talent and drive. Where Ino had her clan techniques and Sasuke would have his famed Dojutsu he had brains and drive.
He liked that, in fact he prided himself on that dilemma. Whether their thoughts were of hate or love, anyone that saw the clan-less orphan toy with the clan heirs and go head to head with the prodigal Uchiha respected it, now it was a completely different story. There was Uzumaki DNA in him, that meant Senju too; obviously Namikaze and there was the Uchiha gene from Zuko's wife Rei.
He shook his head disbelievingly, "Sasuke and Itachi Uchiha are actually my closest living relatives." A small smile formed, they were more than distant but the fact still stood. 'Who would have thought I'd ever say that?' Mind you he wasn't too fussed on the whole Itachi thing; the teenage bogyman wasn't really something he wanted to get involved in.
Those sorts of thoughts were better left for later though, they excited him but they weren't of importance. Anybody close to his bloodline was dead and right now he had a Demon to deal with; that thought wiped the small blooming smile right off his face.
There was no other way to put it, Naruto was in possession of a Demon that just so happened to be the strongest as well as the one that stood for hatred, malice and contempt; it had shown no mercy on the leaf. A Jinchuriki was a political threat or leeway in times of peace and a destructive force in times of war, if he wanted to be either he had to at least be somewhat acquainted with the beast.
A sigh was released before Naruto gritted his teeth. It was quite literally the stuff of nightmares. Common knowledge stated that even Hashirama couldn't control its power, having to resort to sealing it in his wife.
Naruto wasn't one to sit on things, he had a monster living in him, a being so evil it had killed thousands in his village for fun, so strong that the likes of the three founders had to come together to devise a plan for dealing with it, having this thing in him was something that had to be dealt with in the correct manner, "Listen here you little shit, you've been in me for twelve years and it's time to pay rent, alright fur-ball!"
He never was very tactful.
A Few Hours Later
In times of need or want Naruto dealt with things in a very specific manner. On his own, or whomsoever it concerns. Considering that neither of these self-rules fitted his current problem (dealing with an all-powerful demonic demon) he had decided to ask the one and only person he somewhat knew that wouldn't have a clue what he was talking about and yet could still help him deal with it... sort of. Hell, this wasn't going to be of much use to anyone but he'd give it a shot.
He was completely stuck on what to do and after everything the last few days it was nice to get out of the palace. Another point was that he felt like a complete idiot when trying anything Jinchuriki related. He had tried just talking to it in his mind, talking out loud and neither worked, for all he knew you needed some sort of device to communicate. In this sense he was clueless so like everything else in his life it had got put on hold until he got back to Konoha.
But right now there was more important things to deal with... Lets just say he appreciated Akiko's body.
Akiko put her finger under his chin and slowly raised it up to look at her, "Eyes up here Naruto," lips pursed in annoyance, "You must be a pretty useless Ninja if you can't control yourself."
Hanging out with Akiko was turning into a bit of a routine, he'd spend the majority of the day patrolling an area of the palace or recently spending some time with the Daimyo himself. He had refused to say anything more on his revelation and he was sure the hag had something to do with this; he was in no position to try and persuade him so he was stuck with no more information. His spare time would be spent with Izumo and Kotetsu but that got boring quick, the two were getting roughed up by Keshi and Koharu with their important roles and large workload so Naruto was mostly left to himself. Thus these sort of meetings commenced quite often. There was no way in hell that he'd be allowed to bring in some random civilian to the palace so in these frequent stints of boredom wasting time with Akiko was by far the best option, thus the two had decided to yet again meet and were in one of the many parks the Capital had to offer.
Naruto just droned back, still slightly dazed, "Not completely useless, I can be used as a bad example. As for controlling myself; I can, just chose not to." It was becoming a regular routine whenever he would meet with Akiko, what could he say, the girl was a thing of beauty.
Akiko grumbled and crossed her arms, "I'm wearing baggy clothes, and you shouldn't be so proud of that you pervert. At least be discreet." The sentence nor the action helped her cause.
'What the hell, those are baggy clothes.' He mentally slapped himself before returning to normal, "I was wondering when you'd bring me being a Ninja up. For a while there I thought you didn't know."
"You never brought it up so I didn't push you, besides, you're meant to very secretive about that sort of thing are you not?"
Arms positioned behind his head he slumped to the grassy ground clearly tired, "Yup, can't tell you too much to be honest... I have a mission here and when it ends I'll be returning to Konoha." Naruto closed his eyes making it obvious he wasn't too bothered by the factor. This probably wasn't the best thing to do because right now he was getting a glare without even knowing it.
Voice a little sharper Akiko started, "You didn't think it at all important to make this clear. I mean we've been hanging out most days and where good friends. You didn't even think to let me know you'd be having to leave?" Arms crossed in annoyance she continued, "I had thought that at first but when you didn't mention anything I assumed you were staying here."
Lying on his back Naruto opened one eye to find Akiko looking down at him, angry pout present, "Nope. And I didn't think you'd care too much," he smirked, "But by the looks of it you do." His usual teasing wasn't returned.
"Well I do care, we're good friends and it'd be sad to see you come and go so quick. Mami and Yuki will miss you too." The sharp tone held traces of sadness, something that Naruto picked up on but decided not to mention.
"Who are Mami and Yuki again?" He didn't need to open his eyes to tell that there was about to be a burst of frustration from Akiko, his mind went into overdrive to counter this, "Wait, yeah, there your two friends the one's there when I first met you and that time we went and got ice cream? To be honest I didn't think they even liked me."
Bending down she poked his chest roughly, "I don't know when you're leaving but make sure to say your goodbye's idiot. You can't just make bonds and break them so quickly." To emphasise her point she followed up with a few more jabs, each one making him release a groan of pain.
Responding by sitting up Naruto just rubbed his chest before groaning, "Damn, okay fine. That's gonah leave a bruise though," His small scowl quickly turned to a smirk, "You really do care about me. Haha, who would have thought, you made it all too clear that I was just some fresh talent." It was strange for him to say that but he supposed it was true.
Akiko didn't bat an eyelash, "And you were, but then I got to know you so don't you dare just leave okay?
Giving in he just raised his hands submissively, "Fine, fine." She gave him a look that only a woman could do, "Okay, I promise. I promise to give you fair warning." She immediately smiled making him sweat drop at the sudden change, "I haven't been told anything but I've been here, what, around two weeks? I don't even know with my messed up shifts, it's around that anyway."
She just face-palmed and shook her head, "What sort of Ninja are you?" Voice resembling a fed up depression more than anger, "You don't even know what day it is!" She gave him another jab resulting in another groan.
To Naruto's credit he didn't get worked up at the comment, instead just folding his arms behind his head and flopping back down on the soft grass, eyes closed.
She couldn't believe this guy, "Why are you trying to sleep; I don't understand you at all, or are all Ninja idiots like you." He was spending time with a friend, it was early in the evening and to top it all off he was trying to go to sleep In the middle of a park. As far as she was aware, people didn't do that.
He released a sign before he again sat up and with a stretch he rubbed his eyes, "Nope, just have sore eyes, every now and then they really hurt and there doing it again. And as for being a Ninja, I'm actually not too bad a one for my age."
Interest sparking across her face she egged him on, "You might want to get that checked and it's about time you cough up some information, you know a lot about me and I know next to nothing about you." Naruto had been less than forthcoming when it came to anything personal, choosing to dodge the topic or ignore it completely on the rare occasions it popped up.
Not letting emotions portray him he just shrugged his shoulders, "I suppose I can do that. What'd you wanna know, there isn't much too me to be honest." That might be one of the bigger topics he had ever downplayed.
She gave him a chiding look, "I think that's the first time I've ever heard you be humble, don't do it again, doesn't suit you; and just give me an overview, I'm only wanting to know a little more about a friend, that's why I told you about me."
He thought back to that. Akiko, was a simple girl and from what he knew, she didn't have any living family, this was a guess but considering she lived on her own and she hadn't mentioned her family he expected it to be right. Not originally living in the capital she ventured there to make a life for herself and hadn't left since. Working a normal job upon her arrival in the city she made her money and spent it freely; the booming economy of the Fire country mixed with hard work landed her a fancy moderate sized apartment on the good side of town, she would pay her bills and any extra money was to enjoy. It was a completely different life than his, something that seemed so foreign and unimaginable but it was one of respect. Akiko wasn't much older than himself and had made herself a good life, not the type he would want but he respected that.
"Well..." He was somewhat torn on what to say, "I was born and bred in Konoha and looking back on things, I suppose I was always expected to be a Ninja, I didn't realise it at the time but I guess that was my only option but it didn't matter. It's all I ever wanted to do." He thought that was enough but when he looked at Akiko it was clear that she was interested, he supposed he could say a little more, "Every Ninja starts their training by the latest of eight, I didn't want to wait that long so I started training myself when I was six, whatever knowledge I could get my hands on was used and practised and I'm still training to this day."
She was obviously very interested in this and he could imagine why, Ninja where like a thing from fantasy to ordinary civilians. Akiko was about to ask another question but Naruto didn't want to talk about himself anymore, to be perfectly honest, he hated thinking about his past so as usual he moved the conversation on, "You never did say where you lived before moving to the Capital? You answer me that and I'll answer a question of yours."
The reaction was an unexpected one, something he had yet to associate with Akiko.
A long dry chuckle, one that held no meaning. To the ordinary person it would be as it seems but anyone with a tint of skill at reading emotions, any Ninja, Genin and above could tell it was fake, she was hiding something, "Trust you to catch onto that so quickly, I guess you have that instinct about you but sorry I can't say. Even if I did, you wouldn't believe me because I don't have any evidence to back it up."
Her voice tried so desperately to be its usual upbeat tone, even her smile had cracks in it, "Oh come on, try my, I'll believe you I swear."
Naruto was interested, he'd be lying if he said he didn't want to know but Akiko stayed firm, "Trust me, you wouldn't." She gave him a pat of the head like one would a dog, "Your one for trouble Naruto, I can tell. It took Mami and Yuki years to even think of questioning that but at least they get that they'll never know."
He scratched his head sheepishly, "You hit the nail on the head, and I'll let you away with it. You'll tell me eventually though." Whatever the girl was hiding was personal, obviously it was important to her which was exactly the same reason why he wouldn't say too much about himself. He respected that but it didn't stop him from wanting to know.
She licked her lips playfully, "Oh, is that I challenge because you'll definitely lose."
Naruto just grunted, "We are the only living thing that will cut down a tree, make paper and then write 'SAVE TREES' on it. Now whether we like it or not, both of us are infected with that stupidity. Were in that gene pool because there's too many people like that to remove, were all somewhat stupid which means you'll eventually tell me even if you don't want to." That was logic personified, even an Aburame would be proud of that one.
A tick mark appeared, "So you're basically calling me stupid?"
Be logical like and Aburame, be socially awkward like one too. "Yes."
Having expected a painful jab to come his way Naruto sat up prepared and thus was rewarded. Grabbing it he pulled her down to the ground followed by a loud squeal and his laughter. Landing beside him she immediately sat up, "Gah, you got my clothes dirty-"
Her sentence was finished courtesy of Naruto landing a handful of grass in her mouth, "Ahahaha, you should see your face, you look so-" He was treated with the same action.
"PFFT, that's rotten." His sour face and coughs were an ample punishment as he choked on his own medicine. Naruto spat out the mouthful only to look up at a lunging Akiko who didn't look a bit pleased. She was out for vengeance, sleeves rolled up and large handfuls of grass in each hand was truly a frightening sight.
Having made it back to the palace Keshi was fulfilling his role, as usual it was to the utmost precision. The plain room was one of the larger rooms in the palace, made to accommodate any size of party or fulfil any role that was needed, considering the current necessity was a meeting between a dictator and the representative of one its accessories weren't quite as flamboyant.
To earn the title of large in the capital let alone the Daimyo's very own home meant it was truly a big room. The square room had plain cream walls with occasional painting every now and then in no particular trend, each one varied in sizes, some as small as the common ruler and others that far larger than himself. Floored with dark wood panels, four noble stone pillars positioned in a square are what kept the large expanse of free space from caving in, these engraved and styled pillars were well over a few metres wide and judging their length was next to impossible at the height of the room. Apart from that the room was lifeless, all that filled the vast emptiness was a single table, at one end the Daimyo, at the other Koharu, each passing notes and talking business, occasionally there would be a signature.
Positioned a few metres behind Koharu was the expected position, Akainu, the Daimyo's guard copied this. Not too close so that they weren't of any annoyance but close enough to fulfil their duty.
The comfortable silence of shuffling papers and the writing of pens was broken by Koharu, "I still don't think that decision is the correct one," Lips pursed yet a monotone voice, "It's too much of a risk, some things are not meant to be challenged, even by the likes of you."
The Daimyo wasn't quick to answer, instead preferring to finish his paragraph. Setting his pen down he clasped his hands before turning anxious eyes over to Koharu, "You could be right Koharu but it's the difference between right and wrong, it's something that needs to change and you know that. Hiruzen knows that."
The response was a simple hum, it had been the topic of heated debate until the Daimyo finally got his way. Of course nothing was final, far from it. It was only talk as of now, but that talk was something of political magnitude.
The Daimyo rose from his chair, careful to grab every scrap of paper and parchment on the desk before releasing a sigh, "I am tired after today's meeting. We will continue this tomorrow if you don't mind?" His questioning tone was polite and formal, far from what both parties were like during talks.
Koharu stood and bowed her farewell, "Have a good evening." For once she agreed with the man, although physically both had did nothing but sit for two hours the mental fatigue was overbearing.
Keshi remained silent as the loud clapping steps of the Daimyo echoed throughout the room, Akainu trotting along behind him until one final crack told them that the door had closed. Although motionless and quite a distance away he could faintly see the shoulders of the village elder slump ever so slightly at the exit, "Are you all right Utatane-sama?"
She released a sigh, "Yes Keshi-san." A moments silence followed as she simply stayed seated in her thoughts, she broke it with a hollow voice, one that sounded old and confused, something that was rare for the wise elder, "What would you do in this situation?"
"I'm not obliged to say, nor do I have the instruction to make it." Voice monotone and a face like stone.
Koharu slowly rose from her seat and made the ridiculously long journey to the door, Keshi followed without command, "Don't give me that. The best of Danzo's men couldn't have kept themselves from listening in, it's in our nature to be curious about matters such as this."
She stopped without warning, the only sound being the repeated echo's as sound waves bounced around the large open room, her head searched all directions, jerking from place to place, ears perking as the loud sound was slowly dying.
A single fault. The severity of the question asked nulled his sense so he answered the question, "I wouldn't kno-"
A hiss and Koharu's hand bolting upright silenced him immediately and that's when he heard it. An ever so faint whistle where there was calm, one mixed in with the echo so it was barely distinguishable.
As the echo died the whistle grew louder, what was once a soft whine grew louder, grew stronger and turned to a sequel, his time in the war told him what that meant. "Get down!" Springing to action he grabbed Koharu and within seconds they were back to the centre of the room and under the only cover available, the table.
It was a horrific nostalgia, something that nobody wanted to revisit and one that was indescribable. A sound so piercing it made your ears ring with its high frequency, it's constant cry distorted in the wind as it raced at speed. This was known as the scream. The sick scream that many across all nations had heard before death and the only warning they got.
Keshi took a deep breath and closed his eyes, remaining motionless under the effects of the sound. Koharu followed this involuntary reflex.
To try and describe it was pointless but the only thing he could compare it too was a child's screech, a wail of sorrow so great that it nulled the senses of those in its vicinity. It started as a barely audible whisper, to a whistle and to a squeal. The squeal would deepen and distort until all that was heard was the deafening rumble of its approach. It let out a roar as the blast hit and with it brought destruction.
Arms spread wide Akiko let out a low chuckle, it was for no reason and it broke the long standing comfortable silence between the two of them. What could she say, she enjoyed his company. Taking her bright brown eyes off the starry night sky above she stole a glance at him, much like herself he was lying on his back only like usual he had his arms tucked behind his head to rest on.
The silence that the area provided was calming, something that was quite different from their usual spontaneous activities. They had visited the markets quite often at her request and Naruto's peril, as usual he eventually gave in. Although it was hard to find time because of her job and Naruto's ever changing shifts they made sure to squeeze in a few hours together at least every other day.
Akiko still didn't know how it got like this, just why exactly did she think meting up frequently had turned into an unspoken and expected event?
Things that would normally be fun became great. She supressed a giggle as she recalled one of the earlier memories; they had spent a night watching movies and she was treated to a very different side of Naruto. Having gotten used to his usual cool and calm seeing him scrunch up a pillow and squeal at a horror movie was a treat.
It would seem that even fate was smiling on them. Yesterday had been fantastic, some of the finest weather fire country had to offer was on display at the height of summer and they just so happened to get the full day off. They had went swimming, somehow persuaded Naruto to meet up with Mami and Yuki, then they even got to eat out at a fancy restaurant, one that the Daimyo himself had been known to visit.
That day had been amazing, one of, if not the best of her life.
Flashback
Hands clasped together and resting on the luxuries table she was hiding a smile and failing as the occasional giggle was released.
Naruto choked on his drink, "What do you mean seventeen thousand Yen? Do you think I'm made of money?"
A deadpan stare, "Yes sir, we do." You didn't come here for a meal unless that was the case.
It was the fact he sprayed the unlucky waiter with the majority of his drink, or it might have been the incredibly high pithed disbelieving tone that he asked it. To be honest she didn't quite know.
Not ten minutes later she had the situation cleared up and they were leaving the restaurant. Being fancy and high class it was in the nicer part of town, surrounded by expensive homes and shops and just around the block were the huge skyscrapers that were beginning to populate the Capital. There weren't many of them but they were off limits to an ordinary person like her.
Stepping outside they were treated to the comfortable heat that a summer evening in fire country provided. Unlike the day it wasn't overbearing, nor was it cold like the night. The sun had yet to set, marking the sky with a vibrant red that reflected off the new concrete and glass structures.
Arms crossed Naruto had his head down in shame, "Thanks for paying that," he mumbled out, "I didn't think it would be so expensive."
She didn't mind but it was time for some payback after all his teasing, "I expect you to pay me back, that was two days wages right there..." Her stern voice kept him silent, Naruto really hated not being able to pull his own weight having to pay for him hurt his pride.
A quick "Hai", was the response and then silence followed, only being broken every now and then by a shamed groan in discomfort. She felt a little pity, but only a little.
Akiko gave him a slap to the back of a head, "Don't be so butt hurt. I don't mind paying you idiot."
Blonde bangs covering his face due to the slap he whipped his head right back up and moved them out of the way, "Well I am. I hate the way I came here broke and I can't do anything. Because I can't you can't do anything either," Naruto released a sigh, "I wish I was loaded... There's bound to be some way I can pay you back?"
She put her arm around him jokingly, "Oh, little Naru-chan's annoyed," She tried to push him but only ended up pushing herself away, "I told you already, don't worry about it. I've done basically everything I've wanted to do, and in a few years' time once they open up the skyscrapers for public use, I will have."
A small frown in place he taunted, "Oh and why's this, do they charge another over the top fee to avoid hunger? Maybe they have a swimming pool up there that costs double any of that in Konoha."
"Cheapskate."
His reaction was priceless, "Me, cheapskate? I spent a hundred and thirty six thousand on clothes! One mother fucking outfit! As for that swimming pool, yeah it was good, but I know one in Konoha that's better and cheaper; I don't like being ripped off."
She just pulled her eye down and stuck out her tongue, "I can tell, but your still a cheapskate."
Dumbfounded Naruto was ready to give up, "What is it then, honestly I want to know what's so cool about a big block of concrete."
Eyes glazed over Akiko spoke in an awed voice, "Can you imagine what it would be like up there, the view you would get over the city, albeit you wouldn't fell the elements but it would be amazing." She could only imagine the view, the feeling of what it would be like; the entire city would seem so small there wouldn't be a bit of it out of sight from a height like that.
Opening her eyes after the dreamlike thought the first thing she noticed was that Naruto had stopped walking. Looking back at him she was confused, he had his back turned and it was clear he was thinking.
Unable to see his face as he had his back turned she could see his head tilted upwards. Naruto was looking back at the skyscrapers and if she was correct he was focused on the tallest one, known as the Khalifa. Unlike the others which peaked off flat, instead it slowly got thinner and thinner until stopping at least a few hundred feet above the rest and more importantly, it was the one she promised herself she would see. It gave the best view and although impossible to get access to the very top, its highest floor was said to be spectacular.
Naruto turned around, a smirk in place as bright blue eyes danced excitedly. Suddenly he appeared in front of her, movement so fast she didn't see it, too her it was like he teleported, "What? How did you?"
Naruto continued his smug smile as he put his hands over her eyes, "I'm a Ninja." His tone portrayed that it explained everything, "Now close your eyes."
It was the way he said it, the genuine happiness in his voice that held traces of excitement. Excited to see her happy, or excited for himself she didn't know.
Her brain thought it too be impossible, but somehow she knew what was about to happen. A situation that shouldn't happen, in ways couldn't happen and broke apart everything her mind accepted as fact. Yes Naruto was a Ninja, yes they could do amazing things but this?
It happened in a flash, a blink of her eyes. Without opening her eyes her others senses could tell she was in a different place, the feel and smell contributing. It was the wind that hit her first and as she peaked her vision, eyes focused.
Standing by herself on a platform fit for one Akiko literally stood on top of her dream, an involuntary hand clasped over her mouth as she discharged a soft disbelieving laugh. The nearly set sun was positioned behind her and where it was a calm windless day on the ground up here held a firm breeze, refreshing and bringing with it a clean scent so uncommon in the busy city.
She didn't know how long she stood there enjoying the sight or how long Naruto sat patiently waiting below as he too enjoyed the view, sitting down at the edge of the lower level one foot dangling over the edge and the other raised so he could rest his arm on it.
Taking in the once in a lifetime view only one thought came to mind, 'It wasn't very often you meet someone that can make a dream come true.'
She gave a wide smile, a genuine one and something that was far from usual for the bubbly girl. Akiko was a happy person, she enjoyed her life but she had secrets, 'You've really helped me, Naruto-kun.' She had moved on from her past long ago, but no matter what anyone told her, memories hurt.
Naruto helped her forget them.
She took in his form, eyes fixed on the slow rise and fall of the blonde's chest. She let out a content groan, mind switching off she let her eyes roam free quickly locking onto Naruto's exposed arms, they were by no means big but they were toned, she thought back to the swimming pool, 'So is the rest of his body.' A small smirk was the only thing that gave her thoughts away, good thing nobody was watching.
Chocolate coloured orbs pulled themselves away to take a closer inspection of his face, for the first time she noticed thin marks along either sides of his checks, normally unnoticeable but up close she could just about make them out. She smiled to herself, Naruto was a strange guy and she liked that. Again her mind didn't control her movement as she pulled herself closer to him, 'It's nothing major, nothing's wrong with this.'
They were now lying side by side, that was until she let her head rest on his shoulder and like that her eyes closed, she felt at peace.
"You're such a closet pervert."
A squeal erupted as she flung herself back like a cat from water.
Akiko's once so comfortable form and serene smile was replaced by a very different posture; Sitting on her knees now a good distance away she was failing to hide a blush with both hands. The raven haired teen shifted uncomfortably, "How long have you been awake?" Her voice betrayed her as it came out in an embarrassed whisper.
He simpered looking pleased, "I never was asleep." The smirk turned to a grin and if possible widened when he saw her reaction.
And like that it stopped, tightly shut eyes opened wide as she slowly removed her hands, the traces of red leaving her checks, "Then...then you let me?"
Naruto's reaction was to just break eye contact with Akiko, instead he suddenly found the stars very interesting, to give him some credit though, the smile never left his face.
Despite all the talk and fun they were having he'd be leaving shortly, he withheld a sigh, at the start he hadn't liked the capital at all but to be perfectly honest he would be sad to leave it. That's not to say he wasn't looking forward to life at Konoha. Training and spending time with his teammates would be fun and with Kakashi around he was about to get some of his Jutsu, something he'd been looking forward to for a while.
All these things were ahead of him and yet he would still be peeved at leaving, he just knew it. The people here didn't glare, he made friends everywhere he went and some in high places; the more boastful one being that he was on first name speaking terms with the Daimyo and his relationships here were only strengthening.
The capital had gave him a real run over, he now knew about his heritage and with that thought the Kyuubi always followed, 'You're the reason why I came here, I was originally planning to ask Akiko about what I'd do with you. How to deal with a situation I don't have a clue about.' For the first time he shoved the thought to the back of his mind, the difference was right now, it was staying there.
So what if he was the Kyuubi reincarnated, he was a Namikaze. He had made plenty of friends in two short weeks, some of which knew all about the fox. 'I'm a Ninja first and a Jinchuriki second.'
He again felt the unfamiliar pressure on his shoulder only this time deciding to enjoy it. Azure eyes glanced down to see a content Akiko, eyes closed and again resting her head with a small smile on her face. Any confidence he had lost in himself was back in full force and something as trivial as the Kyuubi meant nothing to him; like everything else, he'd deal with it.
'This right here; I could get used to this...' His body relaxed, the constant tense of his muscles slacked and groggy eyes started to close.
That was until he heard a low whistling noise.
Narrowed orbs snapped upwards as he took in what looked to be like a shooting star overhead, burning brightly and standing out from the stars and dark sky. The only problem was that shooting stars didn't exactly do the whole sound thing.
Examining it he watched as it arched over him, its faint whistle starting to become uncomfortable as it passed before dying off, "What the hell is that thing?"
Naruto slowly sat up dislodging Akiko as his eyes followed it. Before a complaint could be made she too became entranced, "Whatever it is, it's beautiful." Its bright glow in the night stood out from even the stars.
Too often was his mind being sent into overdrive, as thoughts strung together his body rose in reaction, preparing itself? Thanks to his love of history the depths of his mind had an idea of what it was, eyes narrowing further and a small scowl appearing he gave the thing of beauty one last ice cold glare, "It's arcing so it has to land and by the looks of it..."
Everything clicked into place as Naruto simply looked over his shoulder to Akiko, while doing so he withdrew his headband from his Ninja pouch and tied it back around his left arm, "Get to you apartment, go quick and don't worry. I'll check on you later."
The seriousness in his voice was a side she hadn't seen from him; a shiver went up her spine as the usually bright blue eyes were dead and lifeless, the small scowl that sat on its face looked like it belonged there. Before she was given any time to respond he was gone, in what could only have been the same thing he had used with her previously.
The confused expression didn't get any time to set in as she pondered his words, the seriousness, the meaning and how he put on his Hitai-ate all moulded together. After all, Naruto only ever wore it on duty.
To cement the sickening thought a low rumble rung throughout the city as she continued to look forward. Wide eyes looked on as the once beautiful star dimmed before letting out a wicked roar. The ground shook and her eyes were forced closed. Then silence.
She never opened her eyes until a hateful wind interrupted what was once a constant calm, one that was cold and brought with it the scent of gunpowder and blood; a scent she knew all too well.
Head lowered she hugged herself tight, "You better be okay, damn idiot."
A/N - And that's that but don't worry, I'm not that evil to leave you on a cliff-hanger. Originally this was all one chapter but I had to split it because it was sorta 22000+ words long...
The usual Chapter analysis will be next chapter.
When I'm writing a fight/important scene expect it to take longer. I'm still relatively new to that sort of thing. By the time your reading this the next chapter should be out, I should have it finished in a few hours and I'll post it right away so you can go on ahead and read that if you please but don't forget to review. It makes my day!
On a side note to those that care; have you ever delivered a roast so overbearingly fire that it makes you feel bad for them. Having some banter my friend made a snide comment at me, my response was, "See this is why people talk about you behind your back." He didn't mouth at me again. Straight savage.