The room was full of silence in the Uzumaki pack home, even Iwai had settled down and was snoozing comfortably in Kimimaro's arms. Nagato and Kyuubi had discussed with the pack on how they had met, a year ago, Kyuubi at Nagato's bar and Kyuubi explained to Nagato on why he had ended up in that area. There were some giggles on how Nagato viewed Kyuubi on their first few visits, that even had Hinata and Kiba chuckling on their pack brother's outlandish immature behaviours then. Tears were shed when Konan explained how she would help at the auction with the pups that were brought in, Kimimaro piping up with his memories of Konan when he was a pup on the auction stand and his happiness at being reunited when Kyuubi brought Kimimaro to meet with Nagato and Konan.
There was relief in many of their stories, as they learned how they all were in a way trying to stop the black market auctions, though there were some suspicions between them all because they couldn't risk the danger of letting others know the intentions.
Kyuubi explained how he found Kimimaro which led to the unanswered question of how Kimimaro had ended up in the wilderness on his own.
Kimimaro's eyes were hidden by his hair, his face looking down at the sleeping Iwai in his arms, while the group waited silently for him to speak. Kyuubi rubbed his back slowly, releasing a calming scent and purr. Kimimaro nibbled on his bottom lip for a few moments, not making eye contact and moved to place Iwai in Konan's arms, before shifting slightly in Kyuubi's lap.
"An old man took me away that night," Kimimaro's voice was shaky but barely a whisper. "The car ride was long, I couldn't see where we went, they put a bag over my head." Kimimaro shook his head from side to side. "There wasn't anyone else, just me, and other big wolves that kept me in the car." Kimimaro's body began to tremble and his hands moved to hug himself, his fingertips clenching his arms hard.
"Kimi, you don't have to continue," Kyuubi whispered as he hugged in the omega close, trying to soothe him.
Kimimaro took a shuddering deep breath and shook his head again, indicating he would go on. "I must have fallen asleep, when I woke up I was being carried, but I still couldn't see. The other wolves talked, but I don't know about what. When they let me see, I was put in a room with three other beds, with three other kid omegas, just like me. They weren't there when I was put there, but the old man who took me from the auction said this was home and I will have to behave and learn. He left me in that room."
"You didn't try to escape?" It was Hinata, her voice thick with sympathy, her facial expression was shocked yet sad at the same time.
Kimimaro shook his head. "I was only five winters old! I-I didn't know anything and I remember being so frightened." His body shook and he rubbed his arms frantically with the palms of his hands.
Kyuubi began petting the omega's hair, "okay, you're safe here. Let's just stop," Kyuubi flashed a look at everyone at the table. The group nodded in agreement while Kyuubi comforted Kimimaro.
Sakura came into the room, noticing the distressed and worried faces of the group and gave everyone a questionable glare. "What's going on here?" She dropped the serving tray onto a counter and washed her hands in the sink.
Kakashi ran a hand through his thick hair. "Mah, just talking about how Kyuubi and Konan met, then with little Kimimaro here," he pointed to the small omega. "Kimimaro said his birthday is in the winter, do you happen to know what day?" Kimimaro shook his head no in response.
"Well then, perhaps we can celebrate anyhow, since it is winter now!" Sakura stated firmly then smiled when Kimimaro looked up at her with his watery eyes, his lips open in shock. Sakura moved to kneel in front of Kimimaro, placing a hand softly on his leg, her eyes bright and kind. "Do you know how many winters you are now? If not, we can still have a proper celebration." Sakura tilted her head with her warm smile at the small omega.
Kimimaro just stared at the beta, his mouth hanging open and unable to voice anything. Sakura just patted his leg and stood up. "Okay, we will work on that birthday celebration a little later, right now I'll update you all on Kisame and Hidan." She moved to grab a cup for tea and sat at the table.
Kimimaro looked behind him to look at Kyuubi, a look of confusion on his face was evident. Kyuubi gave a warm smile, "a birthday party is to celebrate the day of your birth into this world chibi." Kimimaro pinched his lips together, his brows furrowing in thought. Kyuubi chuckled slightly at the sight. "Don't worry too much about it, you will see." He ran his fingers across Kimimaro's forehead and tucked his hair behind an ear.
"Kisame is awake fully now, Hidan is with him, and I asked them if they were willing to talk about what happened." Sakura announced. "I also let them know that Itachi knows that they are back and is aware of what their situation is. I suggested that we call Itachi, with Naruto and Kakashi, then have a meeting to learn about the situation that occurred." Kakashi hummed in agreement with Sakura's suggestion and the remainder of the group nodded in response.
"And what of Utakata?" Kyuubi asked. Sakura looked at Kakashi for an answer to Kyuubi's question.
"I think myself and Naruto will talk to him, since we got to know him and he may trust us more," Kakashi spoke out while scratching the back of his head. "But in the meantime, the rest of you get to know him, I get the feeling he has been isolated for quite some time and it appears he isn't sure how a pack works."
"Maybe he was a victim of the blackmarket auctions?" Konan spoke up while rocking Iwai softly. "Maybe I've seen him, or at least I can let him know what I know. He would need to know that we are safe to be around, especially if he has gone through any traumatic situations like that." Konan nodded her head when the rest of the group hummed out in agreement.
"Okay, with that settled, I'll head over to the Uchiha pack, update Itachi and Naruto on what is happening. The rest of you should probably get some rest." Kakashi got up from the table, stretching his arms up over his head. "Sakura, you may want to inform Tsunade-sama as well, let her know I'll be connecting with her later." He nodded his head to Sakura, "toodles all." With a slight wave to the group, the pack all said their farewells and Kakashi left the room.
Kyuubi found himself suddenly very tired, realizing he hadn't been anywhere else in the home other than the front room and kitchen, "Sakura?" he called out. "Is my room, umm… well still available?" Kyuubi scrunched up his lips feeling embarrassed suddenly.
Sakura gave Kyuubi a soft smile. "Of course it is! It's exactly as you left it." She nodded her head towards the door, then got back into conversation with the others.
Kyuubi got up from the table, after Kimimaro quickly jumped up and smiled at him, Kyuubi made his way up to his room. His feet suddenly dragged heavily and he suddenly felt very exhausted. A hot bath and a nap sounded perfect right now. Running the bath water in his ensuite tub, he rummaged through the clothes in his drawers, pulling out some lounge pants and shirt.
"Kyuubi?" a voice whispered from the bedroom door.
Kyuubi turned to stand and smile at the small long white haired omega peeking through the door, his eyes looking unsure. Kyuubi waved his fingers at Kimimaro to come in while placing his change of clothes on the bed. Kimimaro slipped into the room quietly closing the door behind him, turned and stood still, his hands clenched together in front of him, his eyes casted down.
"What's the matter Kimi?" Kyuubi asked, giving the omega a confused look.
Fidgeting his fingers, Kimimaro pinched his lips then took a breath. "C-can I help you?" his voice was but a whisper and nervous.
The heat rushed into Kyuubi's chest, his alpha feeling pride that the small omega wanted to be with him. He chuckled deeply, "I don't really know what you can do, I'm going to have a hot bath." He pointed his thumb over his shoulder to the ensuite bathroom, where the tub was still running.
Kimimaro beamed a smile suddenly, "Can I wash your hair?"
Kyuubi scratched the back of his neck, his face suddenly flushed with heat at the thought of being exposed to the little omega in the tub. "Uhhh…"
Kimimaro skipped up to the bed, grabbing the towel and grinned up at Kyuubi. "Don't worry, I've done it loads of times!" He grabbed Kyuubi's hand and gently pulled him towards the ensuite.
Kyuubi frowned suddenly. "What do you mean you've done it loads of times?" His voice snapped out into a growl, his alpha suddenly annoyed at the thought of Kimimaro bathing others.
Kimimaro's eyes widened suddenly, stepping back away from Kyuubi's menacing look, the spike of fear radiating through him. He pulled the towel into a hug and looked away from the alpha, a feeling of dread seeping into his thoughts. The omega within him was submissive almost immediately at the alpha's tone.
Kyuubi lowered his head and rubbed his forehead with his palm, realizing how he must have sounded to the omega. He sighed out, "sorry Kimi, it's just- I mean...what do you mean by that?" He controlled his voice this time, asking Kimimaro gently.
Kimimaro licked his lips and nervously bit on his bottom lip. "When I was where I was, I had to wash others' hair," his voice quivered slightly. "And-well I had to wash others too in the bath. It w-was part of the teachings I had to learn." His cheeks were burning now with embarrassment or fear, he didn't know what. "Um...I-I'll go then," he whispered out, his eyes not meeting up with Kyuubi at all and quickly scurried to the door, dropping the towel in the process.
"Kimi-wait," Kyuubi sputtered out but all he was met with was the soft click of the door closing. "Shit," Kyuubi mumbled under his breath. 'Stupid stupid stupid!' He pulled at his hair in frustration and grabbed the towel from the floor. He continued to berate himself under his breath as he went to the bath. He would find Kimimaro afterwards and set things straight.
. . .elsewhere...
Tsunade entered the room, her heels clicking on the floor, her face looking firm and she raised a brow to the stoic raven that was sitting on his bed, tucked under the covers and eating some onigiri that were sitting on a plate on his lap. Sasuke flicked his eyes to the older alpha, lifting his own brow in surprise.
"Well little one, good to see you resting for a change," she smirked with a gruff voice. She settled her medical bag on the table next to the bed, rummaging through it before pulling out a stethoscope.
"Tsunade-sama. To what do I owe the pleasure?" Sasuke hummed out, his voice sounding bored.
Tsunade huffed out a snort. "I'm told you went feral, been nauseous, fatigued and not eating well. Not to mention you were asleep for about 24 hours, which doesn't surprise me, since your body was most likely telling you something," she snapped back. "Now, deep breaths." She placed the stethoscope bell on his chest, not even asking for permission.
Sasuke complied with the demand, taking several breaths while the older alpha pinched her lips in thought and moved the stethoscope to various areas on his chest and back.
"Okay, lay down." She stood up, pulling the stethoscope out of her ears and pulling out some gloves to slip on. Sasuke grumbled under his breath. "Oh stop complaining, tell me how your appetite has been and slip up your shirt."
Sasuke huffed out his irritation and spoke of his eating, which was fine by the way, and the few times he became dizzy and nauseous from getting up too quickly. Tsunade hummed out and occasionally gave Sasuke a stern look, while she gently pushed on various areas of his lower torso. "What exactly are you doing Tsunade-sama?" Sasuke asked out, noticing that the golden eyed alpha was pinching her lips into a frown.
Tsunade just gave Sasuke another stern look before putting her stethoscope back in her ears again. She moved the bell on various areas of Sasuke's lower abdomen, her lips tight and her eyes looking straight at nothing, the look was that of concentration. Sasuke just sighed loudly and directed his eyes to the large windows at the blue sky.
"Where's the brat?" Tsunade suddenly broke the silence, and tucked her stethoscope out of her ears again. She pulled out a small flashlight and tongue depressor, moving towards Sasuke's mouth, her intent clear.
Sasuke half shrugged in his position. "I believe he is talking to Itachi," he huffed out. Naruto mentioned having to discuss with Itachi about Kisame and Hidan over at their home and more details about the trip. Naruto had mentioned to him about a curious situation that the group had faced, though he told Sasuke not to worry about it and promised he would talk to him more about it later. Until then, he asked Sasuke to rest and eat, saying he wouldn't be too long.
"Hm, follow the light," Tsunade hummed out while shining the object at his eyes. "Say ahh now," she chuckled as she then shone the light down his throat, pushing on his tongue with the depressor. She continued to look in his ears before shoving a thermometer in his mouth. He glared at her the best he could with his lips tight around the medical instrument in his mouth. She continued to take his blood pressure and marked down the numbers in her notebook.
Tsunade chuckled slightly at the look before she began to tuck her medical supplies into her bag and discarding her rubber gloves into the nearby trash can. The thermometer beeped, she quickly pulled it gently from Sasuke's mouth and looked at the results. "Well little one," she started speaking as she disinfected the thermometer. "Physically, you and your tiny ma'iingan are doing exceptionally well." She snapped the thermometer back into its protective case, giving him a soft smile briefly before her face turned stern and serious. "Mentally, I'm concerned. Over stressing in situations is never good for anyone, and I want you to settle your ass down and take some time to just relax." She pointed a finger at his nose. "No more rushing off to the club to cover shifts, take your time on your university classes. And of course, no more letting your omega take control like that...recognize what happened that ended up landing you-"
"Stop." Sasuke held his hand up, his eyes narrowing at the senior alpha. "My mah-wing-what?" His one brow rose in an aggressive manner, annoyed that the alpha was giving him orders and then used a term he wasn't familiar with. His emotions were on edge and her attitude wasn't helping the matter.
Tsunade's eyes rose in question at the omega on the bed. "Ma'iingan Sasuke? You know, pea in the pod, bun in the oven, in the pudding club, knocked up...whatever your generation calls it today," she grumbled out sounding slightly annoyed at the explanation. She huffed out, "at least my term gives a more benevolent term of when someone is expectant with a pup."
His breath left his chest, feeling like gravity sank fast and hard, taking his stomach with him and leaving him light headed. Sasuke's breathing began to quicken and with the sudden feeling of vertigo, his stomach lurched in protest that had Sasuke turn quickly off the bed and stumble for the joining bathroom, his mouth over his lips. He barely made it to the toilet releasing his newly acquired snack in a putrid mess into the bowl.
Through his heaving, soft warm hands rubbed his back and held his hair away from his face, but he couldn't be appreciative of the gestures since his body continued to spasm what seemed like forever. His hands clenched the toilet seat like a life line as he squeezed his eyes through the spasms, wishing that it would be over soon. When the heaving had finally stopped, Sasuke rested his forehead on the seat, panting heavily and kept spitting out the reminiscences of the bile taste in his mouth. The toilet had been flushed on numerous occasions, Sasuke was once again thankful for whomever did that.
"Can you sit up?" the voice called out when Sasuke found himself breathing near normal again. Pushing himself up, he felt hands brace him and he allowed himself to fall back away from the porcelain throne and sit upon the floor, back braced against the wall.
A warm cloth was brushed over his lips and Sasuke grabbed it, muttering a thank you while he wiped his face and lips. Peeking through his watery eyes, he noticed it was Tsunade that was crouched near him, holding a cup towards him. "Again, thank you," Sasuke murmured out, taking the cup and large gulps of water.
Tsunade gently placed her fingers on Sasuke's one wrist, checking his pulse and looking at his face. She hummed out a satisfied noise when releasing his wrist and standing back up, smoothing out her slacks in the process. "Feel better enough to stand?" She held a hand out towards him. Sasuke nodded, grasping her hand, finding her grip strong and slowly pulled himself up. One hand on the wall and the other arm was now grasped by Tsunade, Sasuke tested his legs before making his way to the sink. Grabbing his tooth brush, he quickly scrubbed his teeth and tongue while Tsunade watched closely from behind. Silently Sasuke was thankful and he gave Tsunade a small grateful nod in the mirror.
Tsunade assisted Sasuke back to the bed, tucking him under the covers. "Tsunade-sama," Sasuke whispered out while Tsunade was busy packing up her medical bag. She hesitated and turned to look at the omega. "I'm pregnant?" Sasuke's hands were settled on his lap and he held his eyes on the elder alpha.
"Hn, you are." She nodded firmly, Sasuke's look remained indifferent. "When was your last heat?" Her voice was professional and she grabbed a small notebook from her bag.
"I-I…I'm not sure." Sasuke pinched his lips together in thought, his eyes looking down at his hands. "My heats haven't been, normal, per say," Sasuke quietly spoke out. Since he had suppressed his omega for so long, heats were nothing but an uncomfortable day for years. He had read about heats in omega's, the emotional turmoil, the uncomfortable body response, it was different for all, but he could honestly say that he never had an uncontrollable urge to mate because of a heat.
Tsunade nodded and hummed a noise while she made some notes in her book. "Well, from what you have told me of your history, it doesn't surprise me that you aren't familiar with the medical book of omega heats, but-no matter," she clipped the book shut quickly. "You are around 12 weeks pregnant, I won't have an exact time frame without a proper ultrasound, and with the nausea, your omega taking control, fatigue, and not enjoying certain foods, you are well through your first trimester. With many pregnancies, the nausea should suppress more and more, cravings should begin and you should be out of the high risk time frame."
She slipped her book back into her bag then took a seat on the bed next to Sasuke. Her face softened, making her look practically the age she most likely was, taking on the look of a caring grandmother. "I want you to start taking prenatal vitamins, and tell me," she took a breath. "Are you familiar with the instincts of omega pregnancies?" Sasuke shook his head no. She patted his hands that were still folded together. "Some omega wolve's get extremely protective in their pregnancy and have been known to take control to flee a situation." Sasuke lifted his brows in surprise. She smiled softly, "or if cornered, have been known to fight, which I must say puts you and baby at risk. So with that being said, I know you attacked the brat while in your wolf form, and that situation little one, is all part of your instincts." She tapped his hand again and stood up from the bed. "But," she snapped out, "that doesn't mean you should just run a muck and let your omega control you. Work at not getting stressed, not putting yourself in situations where you can get stressed and of course, eat healthy foods, rest when you feel tired and don't be on your feet too long."
Sasuke couldn't find any words to say, his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, … 'pregnant…' The word seemed forgein yet comforting. He was with pup, his and Naruto's child, right now, growing all this time within him and his hands subconsciously went to his abdomen.
"I'm assuming the brat doesn't know yet so I'll let you tell him the news. I'll be checking up on you in another month, but call me if you have any questions or concerns." Tsunade picked up her bag and ruffled Sasuke's hair.
Sasuke looked up at the elder alpha, as if realizing she was still there, bringing himself back to the now. "How did you…?"
The elder apha gave him a smirk. "Don't you remember what I first said to you when we first met little brat?"
~flashback~
"Oh calm down young one!" Tsunade slapped her hand on the desk, grabbing Sasuke's attention. "I could smell you right away, blockers or not! I wasn't born yesterday you know. Now there is one side of me that wonders why you would try to hide your omega status." Sasuke's eyes widened as he stepped back slightly. Tsunade held up a hand, "but, don't worry, it's none of my business and I respect whatever reasoning you have to do so, therefore, your secret is safe with me." She smiled warmly as Sasuke appeared to relax. Itachi visibly relaxed right along with Sasuke. "Now, lets get down to business shall we?"
~end flashback~
Sasuke blinked his eyes in surprise and was speechless. This alpha was-something.
"Takes a lot to pull the wool over this alpha's eyes. Now take care of your ma'iingan and don't be afraid to come to me with anything, got it?" Tsunade snapped her fingers and gave him a wink before leaving the room, leaving Sasuke with his mouth parted open and his eyes just staring at the now closed door.
==intermission==
Naruto was sitting with his leg twitching in anticipation when his eyes passed over the other alpha's in the room. Itachi and Fugaku were present, looking at him with the same hard impassive eyes, there was no doubt they were related and the tension seemed to be so thick Naruto was certain he would drown in it if something didn't happen soon. The men had been sitting together, talking quietly when Naruto came to the room. Both Uchiha alpha's invited him to sit but didn't initiate any other conversation when Naruto seated himself.
A quiet door knock echoed through the room before the door opened. "Mah, sorry I'm late, there was a fallen tree with a family of-"
"Skip the excuse Kakashi," Fugaku cut off the man and grumbled when he threw a glare at the gray haired man.
"Uchiha-sama," Kakashi greeted out in a chuckle and bowed before the alpha. "What a pleasant surprise, I did not expect to see you today, here for the holidays?"
"That, among other things," Fugaku growled in response, his voice thick with annoyance. "I believe we have an issue to discuss later regarding my son and your medical assistance." He flared his teeth out at Kakashi.
"Ah, yes," Kakashi rose and rubbed the back of his head giving a half smile behind his medical mask. He quickly took a seat at the table beside Naruto. He nudged Naruto's shoulder, "how's Sasuke?" He gave a wink. Naruto raised his brows in disbelief at the laid back man.
"Please inform us of what had happened while you and Naruto went to retrieve Kyuubi, Kakashi," Itachi spoke quickly and firmly.
Kakashi glanced at Naruto, giving an affirmative nod. Naruto nodded in response and both alpha's began to tell the Uchiha's about their time in the Rockies. When the story got to the vampire attack, Itachi and Fugaku listened attentively before informing Kakashi and Naruto their information about vampire history, the experiments and destroyed villages.
"So what is your theory on Utakata?" Itachi asked after the two had spent the last hour giving their details right down to when they returned to the Uzumaki household.
Kakashi leaned back, letting out a long breath, and scratching at his forehead. He squinted in thought before answering. "Based on what I sensed, and seen, and now what I have learned from you and Uchiha-sama," he nodded towards Fugaku. "I'm leaning towards the possibility that he could be a hybrid. Whether he is the only one, that I cannot be sure of. Who's to say that if there was one successful experiment, there could be more random hybrids wandering."
"But I didn't sense anything in Utakata," Naruto added. "Neither did my alpha, all I could sense was wolf."
"Vampires aren't easy to sense by alpha's Naruto," Itachi answered.
Naruto pinched his lips in thought, a memory flashing behind his eyes.
~flashback~
Sasuke slapped at Naruto's hands. "I'm fine and I'm glad you listened to me dobe," he taunted. Naruto froze his hands on Sasuke's shoulders and gave a confused look. Sasuke tsk'd. "That," he breathed out, "was obviously a vampire." Naruto's eyes widened as he looked back over his shoulder to where the man had disappeared. "And you do not ever insult or challenge a vampire...unless you are prepared for it." Sasuke finished off with a huff. He side stepped Naruto to take a look behind him. "Looks like he left." Sasuke crossed his arms as he assessed the area. "Yeah, I can't sense him, he's long gone."
.
.
Naruto shook his head. "Baa-chan didn't find any information that may be concerning, but, I did see a vampire last night right outside the club!" Naruto frowned as he recalled the encounter. "But what pissed me off is that it seemed that Sasuke knew it was a vampire right away but I didn't hear it, smell it or sense it until it was practically right in front of us!" Naruto growled out and clenched his teeth. He was disappointed with himself, feeling as if he had failed his alpha status. His hands clenched without him knowing.
Hinata tapped Naruto's knee gently. "Naruto, it's okay. Vampires are hard to sense by alphas, that is why they are so dangerous."
"What was that?" Naruto snapped his head over to Hinata.
"What was what? Why vampires are so dangerous?" Hinata questioned.
"No… being hard to sense by alphas." Blue eyes looked with question.
"Really Naruto? Did you fall asleep during those lessons?" Sakura huffed out when she crossed her arms. "Nobody really knows why, but that's why omegas were often used to lead any attacks on vampires, because they can sense them better. An alpha is more likely to catch the scent if the vampire came into contact with something. Like the ground, a wall, the clothes it wears, stuff like that. Though there is one theory I recall is that because omega's bear young, their maternal instincts are stronger to sense dangers." Sakura explained. "Honestly Naruto, I really thought you were paying attention back in the day! That's why Sasuke –" she stopped herself suddenly. She knew Sasuke's true status and she was sworn to secrecy. She then quickly leaned over and thumped Naruto's head.
~end flashback~
The memories flashing back so clearly, realization flickered in Naruto immediately. Not only did Sasuke sense the vampire with no problem, (he didn't question it, because at that time Naruto still believed Sasuke was an alpha), but Sakura almost let it slip that she had known Sasuke was an omega before he did! And if Naruto had been paying better attention…
He clenched his fists realizing suddenly feeling inferior and a slow brewing frustration began to bubble within him. 'How stupid am I!?' His teeth clenched when he felt his nails biting into his palms. 'What kind of alpha leader am I that I can't catch the most obvious signs right in front of me!?' He belittled himself through his seething teeth while the memory of not being observant of the most obvious around him had him thinking about what had he missed because of his immature nature? He bit the inside of his cheek to stop himself and look over at Kakashi who was still talking.
"Not to mention, if Utakata is a hybrid of a wolf and vampire, I suspect it would be even more difficult to sense the vampire but meh," Kakashi shrugged, "that doesn't mean the exact opposite of that could be out there as well." Kakashi flicked his hand about as he expressed his words. He then crossed his arms, "I suppose that I could get some more information regarding him if he would let me do some tests, or at least talk about where he is from." Kakashi bent his head to the side while his one hand moved to scratch his scalp.
"Bring him here and I will personally interview him," Fugaku spoke up, his voice gruff and sounding authoritative.
Kakashi smirked. "Thank you for your offer Uchiha-sama, but it was somewhat of a miracle that Utakata came with us back here. If Naruto hadn't been with me, I highly doubt Utakata would have even made himself known." Kakashi bobbed his head towards Naruto with a smile.
Naruto blinked at the sudden and unexpected praise. "What? Me? Hardly," Naruto huffed out rolling his eyes. "It was kind enough of him to see us to the border, but when he got caught up in the vampire attack, how could I leave him there? I owe him one!" Naruto's hands waved about erratically.
Kakashi chuckled. "No Naruto, Utakata respects and trusts you." He leaned over and ruffled Naruto's hair when Naruto frowned and shook his head in disagreement. Kakashi looked over at the two Uchiha alphas, "I am certain with some time, Utakata will come to tell us more about himself and his past. From what we learned thus far, he doesn't have any experience with pack bonding, pack lifestyle or protocol. Even though he hasn't spoken much, I observed him as he watched Kyuubi and Naruto's interactions. There is no doubt in my mind he has little to no experience with other wolves, or vampires for that matter."
"How can you be certain that he isn't in league with the vampires that attacked your group?" Fugaku snorted out. "It seems suspicious and a little to convenient that vampires were exactly on the very same path-"
"He wouldn't do that!" Naruto growled out, slamming his hands on the table, his eyes flashing yellow briefly.
Kakashi pushed his hand against Naruto's chest, pushing him back into the chair. "Okay, okay, take a breath." Naruto leaned back in his chair but he continued to narrow his eyes at Fugaku, who responded with a glare of his own. Kakashi mentally sighed. "Uchiha-sama, that concern has not been ruled out," Naruto released a growl and narrowed his eyes at Kakashi. "But at this time," he held his palm up to Naruto's face to silence him. "We will be sure to monitor Utakata and with him situated in the Uzumaki pack, I can assure you that the pack is taking all precautions."
"I have the utmost trust in Naruto and his pack tochan," Itachi spoke up, breaching the electric shocks between Naruto and his father.
"When Kisame and Hidan return, who's to say that the hybrid won't follow them here? I don't need my clan put at risk with only a verbal assurance that he can be trusted!" Fugaku pointed at Naruto and Kakashi. Itachi glared at his father in response. "Because the Uzumaki clan brought home a stranger with vampire ties, and Sasuke being bonded to that immature alpha," Fugaku snorted out in irritation when Naruto leaned forward into the table again, ready to retort. "I will not stand beside a clan that brought on its own demise!" He continued on before Naruto could reply.
"You dare disrespect me and my clan in front of me!" Naruto snarled out, his eyes now bleeding yellow as he glared across the table. "You have no right to judge me or my clan when you cannot even accept your own son, your own blood, for who he is!" Naruto stood up quickly, his hands flat on the table, leaning forward and lashing his teeth out at the elder Uchiha alpha. Kakashi jumped up, grabbing a hold of Naruto's shoulder but Naruto felt nothing. His alpha raged within him, wanting to bitch slap the elder Uchiha for the words he spewed out about his family.
"DON'T you even think of speaking to me that way again boy!" Fugaku snarled in retaliation. "You have NO idea how to lead a pack let alone raise a family! Your brash, immature, irresponsible and a fool for allowing a possible bloodthirsty primitive vampire into your clan!" Fugaku spit out the poisonous words quickly and with a growl.
"Why you-" Naruto hissed out between his clenched teeth. His anger surged causing his muscles to tremble from the adrenaline. He could feel his canine's breach and his claws extend into the wood of the table top.
"Naruto," Kakashi hissed out harshly. "Calm the fuck down." He pulled on Naruto's one arm, trying to get him to sit back down on the chair.
"Well well well, what have we here?" A voice broke through the room from the door. "Seems like I walked into a romper room of hormone induced alpha's instead of a serious discussion on the discovery that the Uzumaki clan brought to our attention." Golden eyes gleamed with mirth and seriousness at the same time at all the alpha's around the table. "Naruto, get your ass back down in the chair!" A manicured nail pointed directly at him with a snarl.
Naruto whipped his eyes at the new participant and his alpha suddenly settled. Naruto gulped loudly and bowed his head, ashamed at what had transpired and the position he found himself in. He slipped back down into his chair, "sorry baa-chan." He gnawed at his bottom lip and looked at his lap.
"Brat," she huffed out. "And you," she glared and pointed at Fugaku. "I didn't just hear you disrespecting my clan did I?" She let out a growl and glared at Fugaku, holding her stare at him while walking towards the table, her heels clicking along the way.
Fugaku frowned at Tsunade but said nothing.
"Maybe I should update Mikoto on what was going down here, I'm sure-"
"No need for that Tsunade-sama," Fugaku gruffed out quickly. "Our discussion just got excitable, is all. Naruto-kun is passionate when discussing the situations in his clan." Fugaku nodded his head over at Naruto, raising a brow at the young blond alpha.
Naruto lifted his head slightly and frowned in response, letting out a small huff of displeasure, gaining a warning scowl from Tsunade. He still was pissed at what Fugaku said about his ability to be clan leader and his pack.
"Now, getting down to business." She turned to look at Kakashi. "When this guest is ready to share more information, please let me know, I would like to assist with the information gathering." Kakashi nodded in agreement. Tsunade looked at Fugaku next. "Was your pack member able to relay as much information as he could recall regarding that woman and child?"
Fugaku nodded. "Yes, though we only have descriptions of the two members, we have a good idea of the age of the said child and woman, and of course the village they both came from. With this information we should be able to get a good idea where they went, narrowing down the areas as we go along and explore."
"Well then, I would have to say that we are settled here, neh?" She glared at all the alpha's in the room, Fugaku harrumphed while standing up, Kakashi and Itachi nodded and Naruto just kept his eyes on the elder Uchiha, his glare evident.
"Itachi, come, I have some things to discuss with you further," Fugaku gruffed out while moving away from the table.
Itachi nodded and stood. "Naruto," he said. "Please keep me informed on what you and Sasuke decide to do next."
"Sure Itachi," Naruto hummed out as he stood.
Kakashi stood and stretched, letting out a long winded sigh. "I'm going to head home and get some rest, I'll check in with your pack later Naruto." He gave a wink and headed out of the room behind Itachi and Fugaku.
"Just wait brat," Tsunade held her hand up, stopping the blond alpha in his tracks. "I need a word with you."
"Mah baa-chan, does it have to be now?" Naruto whined and pouted out. "I need to get back to Sas-"
"Clamp it pup!" Tsunade barked out and pointed to the chair he rose from. "This is in regards to your mate," she grumbled out. Naruto grumbled under his breath and sat back down. She threaded her fingers together and gave Naruto a stern look. "Now, it isn't my place to say on Sasuke's medical condition, but I want you to listen closely brat." She glared at him with her golden eyes, but her face was soft and compassionate.
Naruto's blond brow raised in question at the golden eyed alpha. 'Medical condition?' he thought to himself.
Satisfied with Naruto's submission and quiet tone she continued, "now, Sasuke has been through a bit of an ordeal I am told." She tilted her head at Naruto who swallowed loudly in response and showed remorse. She knew that Naruto felt bad for leaving for so long, and he most likely felt somewhat responsible for Sasuke's omega going feral. She flicked her hand a few times giving the sign to continue, "no matter, I just finished a medical examination on him and I am satisfied with his current condition. So, in order for Sasuke to continue to be in a healthy condition both medically and mentally," she pointed her finger at him accusingly, "I want you to ensure that absolutely no stressful situations come at him for as long as possible. Got it?" she barked out in an authoritative manner causing Naruto to flinch slightly. "Also, make sure he is eating healthy and getting lots of rest. I have informed him to slow down on getting shifts at work and take it easy on his university classes." Naruto nodded in response. She tapped her nails on the table for a moment. "I'm going to suggest he stay here for the time being as there is a guest at your home that needs to be assessed."
"No," Naruto sternly spoke. "I want us to go home, he's better with our pack." Naruto pinched his lips in a frown.
Tsunade's lips gave a small smirk. "Well, as I said, it was a suggestion Naruto, but being the alpha pack leader and his mate, I am trusting you to make sure that Sasuke and you follow the medical advice I'm giving you today." She knocked her knuckles for emphasis on the table.
"Yes baa-chan," Naruto humbly spoke out and nodded his head.
"Excellent," Tsunade blurbed out as she stood. She walked over to Naruto, a smile on her face and she quickly ruffled up the blond locks, causing Naruto to sputter in fun. "Now go to your mate, and don't hesitate to contact me with any questions. Remember, I'm proud of you." She bent over and gave him a lipstick stained kiss on his cheek. She chuckled when Naruto blushed deeply and slapped playfully at her arms to push her away. She nodded firmly and left the room.
Naruto stood from his chair, watching his elder alpha leader with respect. Damn the woman was amazing and he loved her to bits. He leaned against the table briefly in thought. What did she mean by Sasuke's medical condition? His wolf didn't sense anything. He scratched at his scalp momentarily before realizing he should be heading back to the room to see Sasuke. His alpha purred excitedly at the thought and Naruto practically skipping through the door.
Sasuke sat quietly, his mind a flurry of thoughts, going so fast throughout his mind that he wasn't able to focus on one single question for very long.
'Pregnant? Me? How did this-? Am I ready? How big is it? I can't be pregnant, she has to be mistaken- What will happen after? And Naruto, how will he-'
His thoughts were interrupted when the door opened and Sasuke sensed Naruto come into the room. His omega suddenly was on high alert, causing a ripple of nervousness to go through Sasuke. His hands immediately went down to grab his blanket and cover the lower half of his body. The sensation of being in danger was so overwhelming that Sasuke pulled his legs up to his chest and hugged them, succumbing to the fear that his omega expressed so heatedly.
"Sasuke, how ya doing?" Naruto's voice called through the room warmly. The blond alpha came walking over, carrying a tray of fruits, croissants and other light foods to the bed. "Did you get some rest?" He placed the tray of food down on the small bedside table and leaned over the bed to nuzzle Sasuke's cheek.
Sasuke flinched at the touch and leaned away from the towering blond alpha without his knowledge. Naruto noticed it immediately and sat down quickly on the bed, looking over his mate with concern.
"Is something wrong Sasuke?" Naruto's voice was thick with concern, his crystal blue eyes looking into dark orbs for clarification.
Sasuke gnawed his bottom lip, his eyes looking down at the bed covers and his thoughts scrambled to find the right words to say. His omega's instincts were jumbling around in his head, and he struggled with determining what was safe and what was a threat. He felt nauseous suddenly but swallowed thickly to try and gain control. Taking some deep breaths and blinking quickly, he mentally grasped what stable thought he could and responded with a forced smile, "it's over."