Reviewer Shout Outs: The Unapologetic and Mirgeorgia. Thank you, guys, so much for your reviews and questions. I only hope that you will find all the answers and satisfaction as the story continues. Keep reading and keep the reviews coming!
SIDE NOTE: Later in this chapter, there will be lyrics for this chapter, which I do not own rights to. The song is called "Angel in Disguise" by Cinema Bizarre. If you would like, please feel free to look up the song and play it along while reading this chapter and tell me what you think of this song and how it fits Sasuke's feelings.
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Chapter 27: Awaken
Normal P.O.V.
"What are you doing? Get up! You have revenge to plot! The Hidden Leaf wronged your brother and your clan. Your clan has abandoned you. And now, your so-called mate has even betrayed you. You have no one. You are an avenger. You are a survivor. You are destined to burn the world with your own hands. But, you can't do that if you stay sleeping idiot! So, get up! You have a world to conquer,"
The voice screaming in his ears grows louder and louder with each passing minute. Even though the fire died down hours ago, Sasuke Uchiha can still feel a slight warmth within his chest. What that warmth is from, he does not know. The coolness of the ground kept him from getting lost in his evil thoughts.
He didn't want to think this way. He didn't want to feel this way. He didn't want his revenge this way. He didn't want to face the ugly truth in front of him. He was alone in this cold world. He killed his brother who protected and loved him until his dying breath. He pushed all his friends away and turned his back on the only place he knew as home. His only living clan members are ready to throw him aside. And now, even Naruto has betrayed him. Just like his inner voice said: he was alone in their fragile world. And it is within his loneliness that he could feel himself slipping. Falling into the empty pit of despair and hopelessness.
Even he knew he was starting to act like a lunatic. His new strength and powers are taking a toll. All the new information makes his head spin and he is still trying to plan where he needs to go from here. What the voice said is true: he wanted this fragile world to burn. He wanted to shatter the world as it shattered him. However, he could do without the screaming voice in his head. Trying to shut the voice out, Sasuke closes his eyes tighter as he places his hands on his head.
"Make it stop. Please, just make it stop~"
Suddenly, Sasuke makes a startling discovery. Onyx eyes open wide. He slowly brings his hands off his pointed ears to in front of his face. The chakra ropes Naruto tried around his wrists were loose. Curious, Sasuke sits up, crosses his legs, and looks around. That sun has not risen yet, so the sky is still pitch black minus the starts and shining moon. Surrounding him, everyone is still sleeping peacefully. Only he is awake, but he notices that Naruto is nowhere in sight. Closing his eyes, Sasuke tries to feel for Naruto, but can't connect to him.
"Hn. The idiot might be suppressing his energy. I can't believe that is something he still does while he sleeps," Sasuke chuckles to himself before standing up.
With minimal effort, the raven feline breaks the ropes, rubbing his slightly sore wrists. Looking around one more time, making sure no one else wakes up, Sasuke smirks, grabs both his katana and his cloak before heading back in the direction they came from. It was a long way away, but he needed to separate himself to figure out where he needed to go from here. Just as he is about to take off, something called out to him.
A strong presence is beckoning him in the other direction; in the same direction as the Land of Fire and Konoha. He knows that he can't go that way. Heading in the direction of Konoha is like signing his own death sentence. But he just couldn't ignore the siren calling him. It is as if someone was begging for his attention; summoning him to their side.
"Who's calling me? Where are you summoning me to?"
Without realizing, his feet move in the direction of the summoning. In a trance like state, Sasuke follows the siren's call. The call that will certainly lead to his doom.
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Hours later, when the sun's rays start to peak over the horizon, everyone wakes up to the sound of Karin screaming.
"Will you shut the hell up, Karin?! Damn! It's too mutherfucking early to be dealing with you bullshit!" Suigetsu yells as he covers his ears.
Everyone else holds their ears are her deafening cries pierce the upcoming morning light. While trying to block Karin out, Hinata walks over to her and tries to sooth her.
"What's the matter?"
"Sasuke-kun is gone," she answers while sniffling.
"What?!" Kiba gasps while looking around in a panic. When he confirms he does not see Uchiha, Kiba was about to say something until he noticed that another group member is missing.
"It's alright, guys. We can relax,"
"How can you say that when Sasuke-kun has taken off into the night?"
"Yeah, and no offense, but ain't you guys supposed to be escorting us prisoners back? How ya Hokage gonna react when you tell her y'all lost your most important prisoner?" Suigetsu smirks.
"I will just tell her that he'll be a little late. Notice anyone else missing?" Kiba answers smartly.
Everyone looks around to see what he is talking about.
"Their leader is missing," Jugo speaks first.
"Yeah, where did that blond fox demon go?" Suigetsu asks.
"Do you think he went after Sasuke?" Shino questions to Kiba.
"Definitely. IF Sasuke's gone, Naruto is close by somewhere. I'm sure of it,"
"I hope he'll be alright," Hinata says, helping Karin to her feet.
"You worry too much, Hinata-chan. Naruto will be just fine. I mean, who else besides our most unpredictable ninja can handle Sasuke. He'll be draggin' Uchiha's ass back to the village in no time," Shino and Hinata nod as they stand next to their assigned prisoners. "Now come on. Let's get these guys back to Lady Tsunade. I don't want her coming after us for being late,"
Everyone gathers their supplies and Team Take before heading in the direction of the Hidden Leaf. With Kiba at the head, the canine male looks towards their traveling direction with slight worry in his chest.
"You better come back, ya fox bastard,"
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Hours pass as Sasuke continues to follow the siren's call. He doesn't know how long he has been traveling for, but he knows that the sun has come and is beginning to sit close to the horizon again. Finally, after at least a half an hour later, Sasuke finds himself in the middle of nowhere with four orange fox tails hanging from a lone standing tree.
A feeling of frustration passes through Sasuke as the raven approaches the tree.
"Tool ya long enough," the figure from the tree says while laying down on the lowest branch. "I thought you'd never get here. I started to get bored,"
"Tsk. Figures it would be you calling out to me. You're a pathetic excuse for an alpha,"
"And yet here you are," Naruto chuckles as he rolls over onto his stomach to get a better view of his angry mate. "So, if I'm such a pathetic alpha, why did you come here,"
"You know that we can't ignore the call of our alphas, which be the way I still regret our statues,"
"Oh, you regret becoming my omega? That stings, Sasuke. But, it doesn't matter because your mine until one of us dies so~"
Sasuke gives a deep sigh as he pinches the bridge of his noise. "Why do you keep doing this, Naruto. What do you want from me?"
"You already know what I want. So, let's cut the bullshit and just let me take you back already. I mean, you've lost this fight anyway. Why not give up one this crazy revenge notion and just come home so we can be together again,"
"You know that's not happening, right? How many times do I have to tell you that I'm never going back to that place of treason! I would think you of all people would understand my pain," Sasuke finishes before turning his head away from the blond's vision.
Naruto doesn't say anything for a long time. Finished thinking over his next words, Naruto sighs as he moves to squat on the branch, still letting his tails hang off the edge.
"I do understand, Sasuke. You don't think all those years before I met you I thought about killing the same people who hurt me? The same people who treated me like the demon I have sealed in me? Don't you think I don't know of the Elder's constant pursue to have me executed and be rid of the Nine-Tails? We're not the only people with bad history in that village, Sasuke. Think about Iruka-sensei and all the other villagers who lost their family on my birthday. They resent being in that village too, but they took that anger out on me and to shouldered it. Just like I shoulder your burdens too. But do you know what saved me? What kept me smiling though all the pain and trauma I experienced?" Sasuke slightly turns his head back towards Naruto to listen to his speech.
"It was you, Sasuke. You were the one who saved me. You made me see that not everyone hated me. You even protected me on a few occasions. How can you expect me to just throw those memories away as if they never happened? I can't. Just like how I can't forget you, I can't be without you Sasuke. You were the only one in that whole village who I wanted to mate with. I wanted to be your everything. I fell so hard for you. I miss holding you close and inhaling your strawberry scent. I miss all our mini dates and all the time we spent together. Every mission, our talks, living together like a real family, planning our future. I miss you, Sasuke. And, especially knowing who I am, do you honestly think I would ever give up on having you back in my arms?"
Sasuke hangs on every word of Naruto's confession. Despite what he tells himself, the raven feline feels the same about his mature mate. Yes, he still thinks about all the memories they shared and how much he still loves the idiot fox. A sad feeling washes over him as he thinks back to the beginning of his journey. He originally began this journey to kill Itachi and protect Naruto. After Itachi was dead, he thought that he would return to Naruto and be the blond's savior. However, as the years passed, and he was corrupted by Orochimaru, Sasuke understood that things would not be that easy. Nothing was easy anymore. Not even in this moment, is anything easy. Part of him wanted to completely remove his memories and love for Naruto while the other side just wants to fall apart in his alpha's arms. Either way, Sasuke understands that this would be the finally time his heart can be in conflict.
Opening his mouth to speak, Sasuke readies to lie to his mate but stops when an evil presence appears.
"So, this is where I find you two? How extremely lucky for me,"
Both males are on high alert as a figure appears before them. Sasuke whips around, eyes widening when he comes face to face with one of his targets.
"Danzo, what are you doing here?" Naruto growls.
"I've come to kill the both of you. Something I should have done a long time ago,"
"You intend to kill us? Just like how you sent Itachi to his death?" Sasuke growls, clenching his fists.
"Your brother: Itachi Uchiha was a great ninja and ANBU member. But, he also knew what he was getting into when I gave him his options,"
"So, you're admitting to being behind Sasuke's clan's genocide and Itachi's isolation?" Naruto asks, never letting up his glare.
"Yes. Just like I had my hand in the night of your birth. Although, I did not intend your parent's death, Naruto Uzumaki. Even though Madara and Obito Uchiha had more of a hand in both the deaths on the Uchihas and Naruto's parents, I still played my roles accordingly,"
"What did you say, fucking bastard!" Sasuke growls angerly; his grip tightening on his katan's hilt.
"I knew that I could not kill Kushina Uzumaki, even in her weakened state. So, I put into Obito's head that if we extract the Nine-Tails, then we could control it and rid ourselves of its former vessel. However, thanks to your father: Minato's meddling, things turned out differently. Not worse, just differently,"
This confession has Naruto's vision blurring and some of Kurama's chakra leaking. However, despite being pissed off at Danzo's truth about Naruto, Sasuke still needed to know about Itachi.
"And what about my brother? How big was your part in sending him to his death?"
"I was the one who have him his order," Danzo answers calmly, "Your clan was becoming too powerful, too self-aware. They wanted to be the most powerful clan in the village. They even desired to conquer the village. We would not stand for it. Shame too. Did you know your father was actually a choice for Hokage after the Third?" Sasuke's eyes widen at this new information, making Danzo smirk internally.
"Oh? You didn't know? Yes, dear Sasuke. When the Third was ready to retire, he was going to choose your father as the original Fifth Hokage. However, when we learned of your clan's plan to use Fugaku Uchiha's rise to Hokage to conquer the Hidden Leaf. But, who better to eliminate an Uchiha than a Uchiha? In fact, Itachi was the one who told us about your clan's plan. With this news, I gave Itachi an ultimatum: either kill his clan or be executed with them in a public display. Itachi pleaded to spear your life if he accepted the order. I reluctantly agreed, but only because of one simple fact. No matter how strong Itachi was, you were always his weakness, Sasuke. You drove him to be the shinobi he was and the reason behind the power he obtained in his lifetime. Itachi would do anything if it meant you could live in peace. Hn. It makes me wonder what Big Brother Itachi would think of his otoutosan now that he's trapped in this revenge path,"
"I'VE HAD ENOUGH OF YOUR INSOLENCE!"
Sasuke rushes towards Danzo with his katana drawn. Danzo readies himself by grabbing a kunai. When the raging feline meets the older male, the sound of metal clashing rings loud within the clearing. Repeatedly, Sasuke's katana meet's Danzo's katana and causing sparks to fly in front of them. Sasuke's Mangekyō Sharingan rages within his eyes. His blood and adrenaline pounds in his ears. His rage fueled by the disease of a man in front of him. Today is the day Sasuke will kill Danzo. He'll make sure of it.
The power struggle ends when neither concedes to the other. Realizing that they are at a standstill, both shinobi jump away from the other, panting.
"I see that you will not go down as easy. Fine then. Allow me to end this quickly,"
Danzo inhales deeply before standing to unwrap his right arm. Both Naruto and Sasuke gasp when they see Danzo's pale arm covered in several Sharingan eyes.
"Where did you get those?!"
"The Sharingans in my arm came from your clansman Sasuke. I kept them and made sure they are being put to good use,"
"What~ what the hell are you?" Naruto gasps.
"Your worst nightmare," was all that was said before Danzo attacks.
The older male rushes towards Sasuke. The feline readies Susanoo. The purple skeleton-like entity appears to protect Sasuke. However, the omega becomes irritated when his alpha steps in. Appearing to protect Sasuke, Naruto jumps between them, catches the pale fist and strikes his elbow in his opponent's face before throwing the male way from them.
"I don't need your help. I can take him alone,"
"We're in this together. You're not the only one who has a bone to pick with this animal. And rather you like it or not, I'm fighting with you," Naruto says as he lets Kurama's chakra cover him.
"Tsk. Fine, have it your way," was all Sasuke says before walking to stand besides Naruto
With a single thought in his head, Sasuke commands Susanoo to pick up Danzo and hold him in its grasp.
"It seems you're outmatched, old man. Do you have anything else to say before I crush you?"
Danzo tries to gargle out a few words as the monstrous entity crushes him.
"You insolent little prick. You will never live up to your family's name. Soon, you'll die by the hands of the very village you seek to destroy. I just only hope you can give your apologies to Itachi in the afterlife,"
Hearing this make Sasuke snap. With a clench of his fist, Susanoo follows and crushes Danzo; small squirts of blood drip from the entity's fist.
"Don't ever utter Itachi's name again,"
"Fine than~" The two shinobis turn around with wide eyes to see their opponent standing behind them. "How about we fight to death over our eyes,"
Danzo rushes them again with a kunai ready in his hand. When he reaches towards, thrusting the kunai, Susanoo's chakra strengthens enough to shatter the blade. With his blade broken, Danzo lets a light gasp escape him as he is crushed by a large purple fist.
"Sasuke, are you alright?" Naruto asks, looking his mate over.
"I'm fine,' Sasuke brushes the blond. "But, I didn't tell it to do that. It just moved on its own,"
"How does that work?"
"It's Itachi's doing," Danzo speaks, catching their attention. "When I said earlier, you were the only person Itachi wanted to protect, you didn't understand his extent. Itachi knew you would die by his hands, so he wanted to make sure you would remain protected, even after you murdered him. That is why that thing moves, even without you telling it to do so. His interference is making this harder than it needs to be. Ninja Art Wind Release: Vacuum Sphere!"
Danzo inhales deeply before shooting out multiple wind bullets. Susanoo protects Sasuke while Naruto dodges. The blond hisses as he falls on his knees when a few of the bullets pierce his skin.
"Naruto?!"
"I'm alright!"
Sasuke rushes over to help him up. Naruto nods at the help, holding his left shoulder that took most of the damage.
"Stay behind me. I'm going to end this,"
Sasuke closes his eyes. Naruto becomes concerned when blood leaks out of his left eye. When his eyes open wide, Sasuke unleashes his Amaterasu flames. The blackened flames approach a nervous Danzo. Screams can be heard as the body burns to nothing. After the flames die down and nothing is left, Sasuke's chakra diminishes, he falls to his knees, and Susanoo's protective chakra disappears. Now it is Naruto's turn to pick his mate up.
Sasuke's labored breathing slows as he leans against Naruto. Even though he did not physically fight much, most of Sasuke's chakra is used up and tiredness starts to set in. Suddenly, Naruto's senses pick up on Danzo's presence. The blond throws a look over his shoulder as the older male shoots more wind bullets. Using his weight and strength, Naruto carries Sasuke away from the attack.
"You stay here and recover. I'll take care of him,"
"Naruto~"
"I said stay here,"
The commanding tone of his alpha silences him as he leans back against the tree Naruto set him against. After making sure Sasuke is safe, Naruto summons three Shadow Clones. They aim their attacks from different spots around Danzo.
"You think a few Shadow Clones are going to stop me?!"
"Get over yourself,"
One of the Naruto's punches Danzo on his right check. The old male quickly recovers before retaliating. Both alphas use tiajutsu to combat. Another Naruto joins the fight and now it is two against one. Despite the odds, Danzo holds his own. Blocking the attack from one Naruto allows Danzo to throw them into each other; puffing them from the battlefield. The other three approach their opponent. In each of their hands are Rasengans to level the field. Jumping out of the way, the older male escapes the powerful attack combo, leaving the real Naruto in its wake.
From his distant position, Danzo releases multiple wind-infused shurikens. Naruto manages to dodge some of them but the ones he couldn't dodge shreds his skin, causing him to scream in pain.
"Naruto!" Sasuke screams from his position behind the tree.
He watches in horror as his alpha falls to his knees again, panting heavily. Danzo walks over to him and uses his hand to tighten grip around Naruto's thick neck.
"You should have been locked away when you didn't die that night. No matter. I'll make sure to rectify their mistake,"
As Danzo's grip tightens, he becomes shocked when Naruto's body disappears. Behind him, Danzo's eye widens as he sees Naruto running towards him with another Rasengan in his hand. The attack lands with Danzo screaming pain again. Soon the older male disappears, and Naruto falls to the ground, hunching over, and panting.
Panting as well, Sasuke makes his way over to Naruto, using his sheathed katana as a crutch.
"You alright?"
"Yeah. Man, that guy's annoying,"
"It's his persistence. He's technically not a tough opponent but between his attacks, those Sharingans in his right arm and my low chakra reserves, it seems like we are actually having a hard time,"
"Agreed," Naruto says, moving to squat.
"Plus, it doesn't help you keep allowing yourself to get injured,"
"But~"
"Don't play stupid. Remember, I was the first one to discover that you play stupid. I know you could have taken on those attacks and dodged them with ease. I know you can do better. I know you are better. I wouldn't have allowed you to be my alpha if you weren't," Naruto remains silent, turning his gaze away from Sasuke's accusing attitude. "Why do you keep allowing his attacks to hit you?"
"You just answered your own question. You know I can do better, but he doesn't. Only a select few know of my intelligence, especially my opponents. It's what gives me my beginning advantage," Naruto answers while standing to dust himself off. "Besides, it's worth if I can find my opponent's weaknesses before I unleash my true power,"
"Is that so? Well it would be helpful if you can clue me in on that,"
"Pay attention to his right arm. What do you see?"
"His arm, I don't even see him,"
Naruto lifts his finger to point in a random direction. "Focus your Sharingan there,"
Sasuke does as he's told. Using his Mangekyō Sharingan, Sasuke focuses until he sees Danzo hiding in the distance, plotting his next attack. Naruto walks behind Sasuke and uses his hands to lightly grip his lover's shoulders. Naruto slowly leans over to talk, allowing his breath to tickle Sasuke's skin and send shivers up the shorter male's spine.
"Can you see his arm?" Sasuke nods. "What do you notice about it?"
With great concentration, Sasuke notices that one of the Sharingan eyes starts closing. Thinking how bizarre, the raven feline looks around the arm to see that only four open Sharingan eyes remain open.
Opening his eyes, Sasuke answers, "There are ten Sharingan eyes, but only four are opened,"
"Right. So, what I am thinking is that he plans on killing us before the last eye closes. When that happens then he's power will greatly diminish. We just need to hold out until then or kill him anywhere between the last two eyes and that time. Think you can make it?"
"Of course. I'm not weak,"
"Of course, you're not. That's why I mated with you,"
"Is that the only reason?" Sasuke teases.
Naruto returns his amusing smile; a slight heat rises within his chest. This is the first time Sasuke and he have teased each other in years. It felt nice that they could still do that.
"That and among other things. Get ready. He's coming,"
Just as Naruto said, Sasuke felt movement from Danzo's hiding place. However, whatever is coming their way isn't the older male, but something much bigger. After a few moments, a giant red and tan furred beast appears. It has a long snot like an elephant and bandages wrapped around its head. A Nightmare-Eater; a Baku is what's charging at them. Both shinobi jump out of the way as the monstrous beast charges them with Danzo riding on top of it. When the beast misses them, it skids to a stop and opens its mouth. A powerful suction aims at them and they tried their hardest to hang on. Naruto embeds his claws into the ground to hang on; his back side lifting into the air. Just as he is about to lift into the air, Sasuke catches his wrist, Susanoo surrounding them again, and tries to bring him back down. Naruto tries to weight himself down enough to become level with Sasuke. Soon his attempt works and they're holding onto each other for dear life. However, the suction is too strong and if nothing is done then they will surely be sucked in.
Thinking quickly, Sasuke tries to perform hand signs for his Fireball Jutsu. Soon, a giant fireball appears and gets sucked into the Baku's mouth. The beast yelps in pain as it thrashes. After a few moments, it disappears within a cloud, leaving Danzo falling towards the ground. Taking this vulnerability as an advantage, Sasuke's Susanoo's arm cocks back before punching Danzo in his torso, sending him flying backwards. With his depleted chakra, the figure of Susanoo disappears but the purple remains.
"Let's end this,"
Sasuke nods at Naruto's statement. Both shinobi charge at him. Both using their various jutsus and tiajutsu to tire Danzo out. Soon, all three parties are at a standstill, panting heavy. On Danzo's arm, there is one Sharingan left opened. The time to finally end this is near and all three knew that this would have to be the final attack. Looking down at his arm, Danzo knows that he only has one more go before it is over. This is it. This will be his final attack. Pressing his hands together, Danzo summons a wind-infused sword before rushing towards them. Sasuke, summons his Lightning Blade and rushes towards him too. They meet in the middle of the field in a power struggle.
"How many Uchihas did you kill for all those Sharingans in your arm?"
"Like I said before, when Itachi murdered your clan, I made use of them. How can I let them go to waste?"
"Bastard!"
Sasuke brings his katana down rapidly and repeatedly. Danzo grunts with each assault. And behind each assault, he can feel Sasuke's furry. All the pain from his torment and his life is felt behind each strike. But, no matter what, Sasuke keeps up the assault while Naruto watches in the background. His heart aches as he sees the frustration behind his mate's rage. It saddens him to see everything Sasuke's going through be taken out on his opponent, but it is a sign of relief. At least now when Naruto puts his plan into action, Sasuke will react better than he anticipates. So, with his red chakra cloak dissipated, Naruto crossed his ankles and sticks his hands in his pocket.
On the other side of the field, Sasuke continues his assault until aging knees buckles. Using this advantage, Sasuke brings his lighting-infused katana back before running it through Danzo's vital organs. The elder male gasps at the pain as blood spills from both his wound and the sides of his mouth.
"How… can I… loss to… a brat… like you…?"
"Never underestimate a Uchiha," Sasuke growls back before reaching up to remove Danzo's face bandages. As the life drains from his eyes, Sasuke's rage spikes again when he sees traces of a fading Sharingan in his right eye. "You don't deserve to have those eyes,"
With one last strike, Sasuke removes his blade and decapitates his opponent. Danzo's lifeless body falls to the ground while his head rolls to Sasuke's feet. His Mangekyō Sharingan still active as he walks to his deceased opponent. The battle is over. Sasuke wins. Another of his targets is dead and he still lives. He should be proud of his victory. He is one step closer to his goal. But that is not the case for the young Uchiha. No, to Sasuke there is no victory, only depression, confusion, and hatred for the rest of the work. With blood, sweat, and scratches on his face, Sasuke can feel tears welling in the corners of his eyes. The lighting faded from his blade moments ago, but his grip did not loosen. In fact, in a fit of rage and frustration, Sasuke stabs the lifeless body repeatedly, spewing curses to no one particularly. Tears spill from his eyes at the same rate as his curses. Not wanting to see the site anymore, Naruto walks over to his tormented mate and places a comforting hand on Sasuke's shoulder.
"It's ok. Let it out. It's going to be ok,"
With Naruto's hand on his shoulder, Sasuke finally stops his assault on the deceased and just leans on his vertical katana sticking out of his former opponent's chest. His body shakes violently. He feels more lost now than he did before. Nothing in this world can sooth him now, not even his mate; or so he thinks.
I was betrayed
There is no fate
"Is it really going to be ok? Is that what you truly think, Naruto Uzumaki?"
"What do you mean?"
An open sore
I'm in too deep
Sasuke stands up slowly, his hands never leaving the hilt of his katana.
I can't believe
Anymore
"You always say it's going to be ok. You're always here to tell me that I'm safe. That I'm lost. You're here to save me. But, you know something, you're right about one thing,"
Will you take what's left of me
Feeling his mate's anger freezes Naruto in place as the raven feline runs to glare at him; his tail swishing with the emotion welling inside of his mate.
"I am lost. I'm lost on the fact that everyone in the world only saw my clan as weapons and for their usefulness. We were never people to the Hidden Leaf. Even the Hokage wanted us gone because of his fear of what we could be. It's sickening. And yet, you want me to return to that village with those same people who want me dead, isn't that right?"
Naruto stays silent at Sasuke's accusing tone. Deep inside, he knew that Sasuke would not be happy back in the Hidden Leaf, but it is the only way the blond can protect his mate. With nothing but faith in his plan and a prayer on his lips, Naruto swallows the lump in his throat.
"Sasuke. If you don't come back, they will execute you. You are a missing-nin. You are one of the most wanted people in the world right now. How can I protect you if you're always out of my reach?"
"What if I don't want you to save me?"
"Then I have failed you as an alpha,"
"No, you're wrong," Sasuke sighs as he turns around to yank his sword out of Danzo's chest before placing it back in its sheath. "You're not the one who failed…"
Naruto, confused by Sasuke's words, watches as his mate walks away from him. But, before Sasuke can get too far, Naruto calls out to him.
"Sasuke!"
"Save it, Naruto. It's over,"
"It's not over. You're coming home with me and that's final,"
This makes Sasuke stop mid step. His back remains to Naruto for a few moments before he finally turns around, a glare hard on his face.
"You really think after all of this. After this battle and the truths that I have learned that I will go back willingly?"
"Not willingly, but you are coming home no matter what?"
"You looking for a fight?"
"No, but I know that this is the only way you'll even consider coming back with me," Naruto says as he gets into a fighting stance.
"You really looking to do this?" Naruto doesn't answer him. The blond only stares at his mate with an intense glare; something Sasuke has only seem given to Naruto's opponents. With a deep sigh, Sasuke unsheathes his katana and readies himself. He really didn't want to do this. "Fine, but just know your advantages aren't going to work with me. I know all of your tactics and secrets,"
"Not all of them. Come on, Sasuke. Hit me with everything you have,"
Reanimate my trust in fate
The two share intimidating glares. Everything that happened between them will end here. And, despite not wanting to hurt each other, both know that they have no choice if either of them is going to continue with their goals. A loud wind blows between them. The air so thick that not even the sharpest weapon can cut it. Sweat and tiredness dances on their faces. This is going to be the end, no matter what happens. Everything will come to head right here, right now. Each take a deep breath before rushing towards the other, weapons in hand. Half way through the field, they finally collide.
Angel in disguise, you save my soul
But you make my heart go blind
The sound of metal clashing overshadows the sound of the blowing wind and threatening rain. Nether one looking to give up their separate goals. This is going to be the testament for wat they want; their relationship especially.
My devils rage inside, just can't let go
Cause it feels so right
Naruto lets some of the pressure up in favor of pushing forward. His blade scratches Sasuke's cheek, leaving a thin line of blood to spill down where blood is already present. Sasuke allows for the scratch to happen so he can use one of his fists to punch Naruto in the face. The blond grunts as he staggers back but catches himself when Sasuke raises his foot to kick him. Just like with Danzo earlier, Naruto grabs Sasuke's ankle and elbows him in the face before throwing him with a spin attack.
You make my heart go blind
Sasuke flips backwards and lands on his feet, his Mangekyō Sharingan activates again before he rushes back to the blond. With everything happening so fast, both Sasuke and Naruto feel themselves becoming dizzy. Their spinning as they continue to assault each other. All their frustrations are coming out in this current moment.
The city sleeps
In empty streets
No glam of hope, godforsaken
Naruto's frustration comes from not being able to save Sasuke. He understands that Sasuke has a lot of things to work out. Who wouldn't after finding out their whole life has been a lie? But, there was one thing that was never lied about: his feelings for his mate. Naruto found love in the lonely raven. Naruto found comfort within those pale arms. He wanted nothing more than to be with his mate until they perished. He wanted simple lives for them, as simple their lives could get as shinobi in a war-torn land. Naruto just wanted Sasuke to remember their lives before the Akatsuki, before Itachi, before Orochimaru, before any of this ever happened. He just wanted his Sasuke back.
There's no escape
I'm so afraid
Of being cold
Just to cope with society
Sasuke on the other hand had abandoned those ridiculous dreams long ago. Just like Naruto, he wanted nothing more than to spend the rest of their lives together and live out the remainder of their lives in peace. But, that could never come to be true. Sasuke is a missing-nin; one of the highest caliber too. He isn't normal. Nothing about his life is normal and Naruto should know that. Since he was born, nothing was normal in his life, except Naruto. His blond mate is the only one who gave his life any kind of consistently. He was almost ready to give up his revenge. He was willing become what Naruto is: a dreamer.
Reanimate my trust in fate
Angel in disguise, you save my soul
But you make my heart go blind
My devils rage inside, just can't let go
Cause it feels so right
You make my heart go blind
You save my soul
You make my heart go blind
With nothing left between them but determination. Both lovers gave everything they had. Still, neither one wants to hurt the other, but they knew that if they were conscious, then there is no escape. They had to find a way to let this die and bury it. Well, at least Sasuke needed to. Naruto already has his plan. Naruto knows his plan may be the stupidest thing he will ever do, but it is the only way to wake Sasuke up. He must be dramatic. Sasuke is one of those people that he must face trauma before he can come to terms with anything. Naruto knows that, no matter what Sasuke says, the raven will never hurt him. So, how else would he manipulate Sasuke other than by doing just that. He knows that he is betraying Sasuke that way, but it is the only thing that will save Sasuke. He will need to make a choice: either kill Naruto or give in. He only hopes Sasuke chooses the latter.
There is no fate
We've been betrayed
Can you ease my mind?
I'm blind with rage
Sasuke on the other hand had a similar plan in mind. Just like what Naruto said, Sasuke does not want to hurt his blond mate. However, he does want to severe their blond. No matter how many times he tries to deny it, Naruto is Sasuke's one true weakness. Nothing else in this world can bring Sasuke other than his lover. No one else effects Sasuke like he does. And, if Naruto continues to be alive and come after him, then he will never accomplish his goal. Sasuke knows this. No, he does not want to kill Naruto. However, he does hope that this fight will make Naruto realize something he accepted a long time ago: they can no longer be together.
Reanimate
My trust in fate
Search deep down inside
And heal the pain
The battle continues. Both become exhausted. They never had any recovery time. Naruto is much better off than Sasuke, but he tries to give his lover a fighting chance. Sasuke's chakra reserves are much lower than Naruto's. Naruto can technically go longer, but he knows Sasuke can't. It wouldn't be fair nor would his plan work. Naruto needs to think of something and soon.
Angel in disguise, you save my soul
But you make my heart go blind
My devils rage inside, just can't let go
Cause it feels so right
You make my heart go blind
Both males are panting as they try to stand on weakened legs. Sasuke uses his katana as a crutch while Naruto rests his hands on his knees.
"Sasuke, we need to stop this. We can't go on like this,"
"What do you mean? I can go all day," Sasuke replies as he tries to stand but his knees buckle.
"You can't lie to me, teme. I know you have low chakra reserves. You won't outlast me," Sasuke doesn't say anything as he continues to try and stand. "Sasuke, please. Let's just go home. I'll even carry you,"
"You dare insult me! I am not your bitch, Naruto. Whatever relationship we have is over. Why can't you realize that? Why can't you just leave me alone?"
"Because I love you…"
The words seem like a loud declaration, but it came out as a whisper. A whisper, Sasuke wishes he didn't hear. It also doesn't help that the blond idiot is smirking at him either.
Angel in disguise, you save my soul
But you make my heart go blind
My devils rage inside, just can't let go
Cause it feels so right
"Stop saying that. I don't need to hear it,"
"Why? Because you know you still love me?"
"Shut up! Stop trying to be my hero! Just leave me alone already!"
Sasuke is on the verge of tears again. Everything is making his head spin. He feels dizzy. He just wants everything to stop. He wants Naruto to go away. But, at the same time, he just wants to fall apart in the blond's arms like he used to. And therefore, he needs to get away from Naruto. Every time he sees that idiotic smile or hear his deep, commanding voice, it sparks fires of passion with him. He can't keep having Naruto coming after him. If this game of fox and cat continues, Sasuke will surely crumble.
You make my heart go blind, you save my soul
"I will never stop chasing you, Sasuke. I love you too much to let you keep falling inside of your darkness,"
"Shut up!"
"Even if I must dive head first into your darkened waters, I will always be there to save you,"
"I said shut up!"
"Sasuke!"
"Naruto! You need to stop to stop! You need to leave me alone! I'm not like you! Things aren't as simple as they used to be. Just let us go, Please…"
Naruto stays silent for a little while before finally standing up straight.
"If you truly want me to leave you alone… You're going to have to kill me,"
Sasuke's shut eyes open wide at Naruto's statement. Was the blond insane? Had he finally snapped?
"You really think I won't kill you to realize my goals?"
Naruto smirks as he dismisses Kurama's chakra and holds his arms out.
"I don't think you can,"
This makes Sasuke finally snap. He rushes towards his still mate with his sword straight. What surprises Sasuke is that Naruto doesn't move. Is he waiting for something? What is he planning?
"Move you idiot,"
He gets closer.
"Damnit! I said move!"
Time seems to slow down. Even the raindrops slow to an impossible speed.
"Move!"
Sasuke continues to run towards Naruto but the blond still isn't moving.
"The fuck is wrong with you!"
Naruto stands completely still, trying not to let his nervousness show.
"Why won't you fucking move!"
Raindrops sting his scars. He can taste his sweat on his upper lip. Even with the time slowed, Sasuke can still feel his adrenaline fueling his actions. But soon… everything comes to an immediate stop.
You make my heart go blind
Wide eyes stare into half lid ones. A smile dances on tan, thin lips as blood leaks from the corners. Sasuke's breathing stops. His actions stop. His world stops. As Naruto's heavy body leans into his, Sasuke comes to the sudden realization… he stabbed Naruto…
"Naruto…"
"Sasuke…" the blond whispers before coughing up blood. "I'm sorry…"
Naruto's heaviness kick starts Sasuke's panic. With fear in his eyes and labored breathing, Sasuke moves Naruto to lay on the ground with his katana still sticking out of his mate's torso.
"No, no, no, no, no…"
"Sasuke… it's ok…"
Tears swell in the corner of onyx eyes; the owner doesn't stop them from falling. The rain continues to fall on them, soaking them to the bone. Only the undistinguishable sound of thunder can be heard in the background.
A large, course, tan hand reaches up to caress a pale cheek. The same smile never leaves those tan lips.
"Stop crying…"
"Why… why didn't you move…? What were you thinking…?"
"I was thinking… if I can't save you… than what… is the point… of living…"
"You're a fucking idiot… You're a fucking dobe… Why couldn't you just leave me alone…?"
Sasuke continues to cry. His tears, along with cold raindrops, fall onto Naruto's face below. Sasuke cradles Naruto's head in his lap as he rocks back and forth. Memories of the last time he hurt Naruto fill his head. That same feeling of remorse and regret fills his chest, making his cry harder. Thunder continues to strike around them, but Sasuke doesn't care. The only thing he can think about is how his mate is dying in his arms because of him. His life is a mess. His life is a fucking mess.
Suddenly, onyx eyes open wide when he feels something on his forehead. In front of him, two of Naruto's fingers poke him in his forehead. He looks down to see Naruto still smiling even as he continues to cough up blood.
"You dork… You're such a cry baby…"
"How can you be so calm about this? You're dying and it's all my fault,"
"It's… not all… your fault…" Sasuke looks down at his mate in sadness and confusion. "I… provoked you… I knew you… wouldn't listen… unless I provoked you…"
"So, when you were letting Danzo's attacks hit you, that was a part of your sick little game?"
Naruto reaches for the katana sticking out of him. Sasuke wants him to stop, but Naruto had already pulled out the katana and tosses it aside.
"Would have mattered… if I told you otherwise…?" Even though he's made at Naruto's confession, Sasuke can't get rid of the fact that Naruto is still dying in his lap. "Sasuke… there's something… I need to tell you… before I die…"
"You're not dying. Stop talking like that…"
"Tell Itachi I'm sorry… Looks like… I won't be… keeping my promise… after all…"
"What do you mean?"
Naruto coughs again. "I promised… your bother… I would always… take care... of you… care for you… save you… Looks like… all I can do… is die for you…"
"Stop talking. You need to preserve your energy… You're not gonna die. I promise…"
"Sasuke… it's alright… as long as you're safe… that's all that matters to me…" Naruto weakly raises the same hand that he poked Sasuke's forehead with to cup Sasuke's bloody cheek. "I love you, Sasuke… Never forget that…"
Sasuke lifts one of his hands to place it on top of Naruto's. He looks down at his mate's smiling face before moving to kiss his hand. Suddenly, Sasuke's open wide again when he feels Naruto's hand go limp. With panic eyes, Sasuke looks down to see Naruto's eyes are closed.
"Naruto? Wake up! Naruto! Please wake up… Please…" Sasuke leans down to touch their foreheads together as more tears stream down his face. "Please… please don't leave me… I'm sorry… I wish I could take it all back… Just please don't leave me… I love you… I love you too, Naruto… Please come back…"
More tears and sobs shake his body violently. Sasuke can't remember a time he's cried this hard since the night he lost his clan. He wants to scream. He wants to cry for help. He just needed for Naruto to be ok. He wants time to reverse. He wishes he can take it all back. He wishes he never did any of this. Now his mate is dying and there is nothing he can do.
"Uchiha…"
A demonic voice calls out.
"Sasuke Uchiha…"
"Who's there?"
"Wake up you fuckin brat! I need to speak with you!"
…
…
…
Slowly, Sasuke opens his eyes to see he's standing inside a dark place. Water surrounds him and comes up to his calves. And before him lays an injured nine-tailed demon.
"Nine-Tails~"
"The name is Kurama and you will respect me as such. It's the least you can do for trying to kill me,"
"Where am I?"
"You don't remember this place? This is where we first met. We're inside Naruto's subconscious: my home,"
Sasuke looks around. Memories of meeting the large demon flood his mind. His head starts spinning again. He brings a hand up to try and cradle it. Just as his head starts to feel slightly better, he opens his eyes to see Naruto floating before Kurama.
"Naruto?!"
Sasuke runs over to where the blond is resting but his hands pass right through him.
"Why can't I tough him?"
"This is his subconscious. This is his soul that I brought here to watch over until he finally passes,"
"Can't you do something? You're his demon. You need to heal him. If not for him, then for yourself, selfish prick,"
"YOU WILL NOT SPEAK TO ME THIS WAY!" Kurama roars, making the world around them shake. The demon fox takes a few deep breathes before calming down and resting his head on his paws. "Besides, I'm following his orders,"
"Orders? What are you trying to say? I know Naruto allowed himself to be injured on purpose, but for what? What was the point of all this? Does he truly have a death wish?" Sasuke asks, afraid of the answer.
"He did it for you," This answer shocks the raven, but he doesn't say anything as Kurama continues. "You don't' know this, but five Kage were going to have you executed. It was Naruto who convinced them not to. He even put his life on the line for you, literally. He agreed to take responsibility for your actions. The deal is that if he fails in bringing you back, then he will be executed alongside you upon your final capture,"
"He was going to die for me? But, he wants to be Hokage. He has dreams, friends, family, a home. Why would he give all that up for me?"
"Because he loves you, dumbass. That boy loves you more than anything in this world. If it were up to me, I would have killed you and erased his memories of you. You don't deserve him. He's done nothing but care about your wellbeing and love you. And what have you done? Nothing. You've done jack shit and expect to think everything will be alright. Well guess what, buttercup, it's not. I'm losing my son because of you. Because of you, I'm not only losing my life but my son as well. Neither of us will exist if you don't do something,"
Sasuke lowers his gaze to stare at his mate's floating soul. Just like everything else associated with Naruto, his soul is bright. Even now, Sasuke can feel love coming from the entity. Enough is enough. Naruto is right. He is not the only one who has suffered yet he acts like it. Sasuke has been nothing but selfish when everything he truly needs was right in front of him all along. He needs to fix this; all of this. It's time he starts thinking about others, especially his mate. He's caused the blond enough heartache. It's time to start healing what he broke.
"You're right, Kurama. I am nothing but trash who doesn't deserve to walk the same ground as Naruto. I know he's loved me all this time and I know that I've done nothing but hurt him. I'm sorry, but I promise I will do whatever I need to heal him. I just need you to keep him alive for a little while,"
Sasuke's declaration peaks his interest. Kurama raises his head and glares at Sasuke.
"What do you plan to do, Uchiha?"
"I'm taking him back to the Hidden Leaf,"
"They'll execute you,"
"I don't care. Naruto's life is more important. If saving his means my death, then so be it. I would rather die knowing that Naruto's ok then live with him dead,"
Kurama stares at Sasuke, looking for any signs of deception. When he doesn't find any, Kurama gives a deep sigh as he sits up.
"Well, you can't do it in your current state," Sasuke flinches as a clawed paw reaches towards him. Suddenly, red chakra fills him, healing his injuries and boosting his chakra reserves. "There. I have healed your wounds and given you some of my chakra temporally. Now, you can run back to the village with no issue. But listen to me when I saw this Uchiha. If you allow Naruto to die or continue to hurt him, I will personally see to your torment before running my claws through your fragile, meek body. Do I make myself clear?" Sasuke nods his head. "Good, now go save my son,"
…
…
…
Sasuke's eyes slowly open. He looks around to see his healed wounds, the flooding ground, the sounds of thunder in the background, and Naruto's unconscious body still on his lap. Panic sets in as he uses his fingers to find a pulse. When he feels a faint one, Sasuke relaxes slightly. Remembering his promise, Sasuke looks down at Naruto's frail, bloody form. With determination in his eyes and in his mind, Sasuke leans down to kiss Naruto's bloody lips.
"I promise I'll fix this. I'll fix us. I'll be better, I promise,"
With slow, careful movements, Sasuke moves Naruto onto the soaked ground before standing up. He walks to his discarded katana, sheathes it and walks back towards Naruto's body. Thinking quickly, Sasuke uses his strength to sit the blond up enough to have him straddle his back. It takes him a few tries, because of how heavy Naruto's body is, but he finally manages it.
"After this, you and I are going to have to work on your diet, dobe,"
And with that, Sasuke races off in the direction of the Hidden Leaf. Rain continues to pelt them as he races through the Land of Earth until he reaches the Land of Fire. It is a long journey ahead, but Sasuke knows he can't fail. Not for Naruto. Not for Itachi. Not for his clan. Sasuke promises he will never fail again.
…
…
…
To Be Continued…