I can honestly say that this chapter pissed me off a lot. But, I finally am happy with it and here it is!

Thanks to those who still continue to hang on with my not so scheduled writing and often leave me kind notes!

==x00x00x00x00x00x==

The clear night sky twinkled hundreds of stars, the moon was at a quarter and the silence of the still of night hung in the air. The only sounds were the crackling fire that engulfed the body of the wolf, until several wolves howled in unison. Their deep sorrowful filled howls released through the air, as they sung their songs of sadness.

The Uchiha and Uzumaki came together to give their final respects to the Uchiha clan pack member Hidan. Along with the packs was Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Kakashi, respected members to both packs.

Sasuke stood close to Naruto, leaning his head against his mate, listening to the sorrow coming from many of the wolves. Kisame was the loudest, the painful cries echoing throughout the forest. His parents stood to the side, their heads bowed in respect to the lost Uchiha pack member. He watched as the flames erupted into the night sky, a few tears escaped his eyes and he allowed it. Hidan had been a part of their pack since he was a cub, and though he may not have had Uchiha blood, he was still family. He shivered slightly when Naruto put an arm around his shoulders, pulling him closer to his body and he could hear the sniffles coming from the blond alpha.

Obito and Uzumi joined in the sorrowful song of howls, standing close to Kisame who trembled with each long and emotional howl. Kisame was always with Hidan since joining the Uchiha's, the pair were as close as brother's could be.

Sasuke's heart ached at the memory of the vampire attacks and just how close he had come to losing everything he held dear. Though they only lost one, it was one to many, and he unconsciously hugged his swollen belly beneath his winter jacket.

When the flames died down to nothing but a pile of glowing ash, the packs dispersed quietly, leaving the pile of ash to spread with the winter wind throughout the forest.

==x00x00x00x00x00x==

"The tests have all come back, and it shows that it is as we suspected. Utakata is a hybrid of wolf and vampire," Tsunade explained.

"Can the tests tell which one is more dominant?" Kakashi asked.

Tsunade shook her head. "I'm thinking that the only way that can be determined is if we know more about his mental well being, since we have seen that he can be a wolf and a vampire."

"I would consider that his wolf is more dominant, that is how we met him after all. And conversations with him regarding his vampire status, he didn't appear to recall how he came to be in that state," Kakashi added, his finger tapping on his chin in thought.

"But how did he become both wolf and vampire is another mystery," Tsunade questioned while tapping her nails on the top of the table.

"I believe I can bring a suggestion to that question," Itachi spoke up next. The other wolves looked over at the Uchiha alpha, waiting patiently. "My father shared some information on when he and another group had come across the twisted practices that the vampires were compiling decades ago," Itachi went on to explain the conversation that he had with his father prior.

flashback

"That could be a problem," Fugaku muttered out, rubbing his chin in thought. He leaned back into the armchair, letting out a long drawn out sigh. "Vampires are tenacious for holding a grudge, the worst I've ever encountered in a species. One could say they are a very proud race, and some would say that their species are dauntless and riddled with their own sense of honour. I would say they have a false sense of superiority." Fugaku smirked at the comment. "Every species has a weakness, but vampires-well they have learned over centuries how to evolve their DNA to lessen their known weaknesses, become more of a supreme being."

Itachi hummed in acknowledgment and ran a hand through his hair. This wasn't good news. "Your saying that vampires have been working on abolishing their genetic weaknesses?"

"Hn," Fugaku responded. "It isn't surprising, all species look into genetics and cures to save their species. Even the Uchiha scientists work towards curing diseases and ways to overcome genetic abnormalities. It's just that vampires have been known to look into more inhuman ways to find answers, with my experience that is." Fugaku cringed at the explanation.

Itachi scoffed. He certainly knew of a certain werewolf that tried the same thing, and Orochimaru has still eluded the authorities on his questionable scientific activities. His alpha flared up with disgust and anger at the thought of Orochimaru and his history with his otouto.

"Information was presented to me some time ago, perhaps it was about 30 or 40 years ago now," Fugaku rubbed his chin again, looking up at the ceiling in thought as he spoke. "Accusations of a vampire colony using other species to splice DNA with their own species for their research. Our clan assisted others with finding evidence of these accusations and sadly, we had found one of their research laboratories, hidden deep within a mountain."

Itachi's eyes focused on his father's form, startled at his father's confession. This is by far the most information his father has ever shared with him about clan activities in his past, ever. Itachi could empathise with his father, having seen the laboratory of Orochimaru where he found his otouto all those years ago. The smell was the worst, still embedded in his mind many years later.

"The documents we managed to retrieve before the vampires destroyed everything suggested that they were experimenting with cross breeding. There was bits of information about villages they had explored, species they had researched and names and descriptions of potential and probable specimens, " he growled out the word, "that were a close match to their genetics. I was disgusted to see that their description of other species, people they experimented on, were described as a piece of meat!" Fugaku spat out, his teeth clenched slightly.

Itachi gasped slightly at this information. This was something that he was certain wouldn't be found in any of the archived books in his library. "And what of these probable persons? What happened to them?" Itachi asked quickly, wanting to know the results as well.

"Omega's were raped by vampires in front of their mates and sometimes even pups, and from my understanding, their mutant hybrid abominations didn't survive, but developed enough within omega's wombs long enough to tear them to shreds from the inside out." Fugaku growled through his clenched teeth, his eyes rimmed red, as he retold one of the many situations that he had been exposed to. Itachi flinched when Fugaku spit out the explanation with repugnance.

"We explored every area that we could find listed on the remains of the documents," he shook his head sadly, dropping his chin and hiding his eyes in the shadows of his thick hair. "There was nothing left," his voice was low and quiet. "The colonies had heard of our raid and destroyed as much evidence as they could before we could save any of them." He closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose, releasing a long shaky breath.

~end flashback~

There was quiet around the table after Itachi had retold what Fugaku had shared with him. Tsunade's lips were pinched, Shizune looked horrified and Kakashi had his hands clasped and propped underneath his chin, his eyes narrowed and focused on the table top before him.

"Judging by how old Utakata is and how our clan hasn't seen any other like Utakata, it is possible that vampires have not been actively practising this type of behaviour for some time — until recently." Itachi explained his theory. "Though the main focus, from what I learned, was that the vampire's wanted to get rid of the Uzumaki pack, for some grudge they had against certain members."

Tsunade's head flipped so quickly, her canines clenched and beared in a hiss. "Naruto? Did he—?" Her voice was thick with authority and her alpha reached out to the members of the room.

Itachi shook his head and stopped Tsunade from finishing that sentence. "It really doesn't matter now, because many of the vampires were destroyed during the battle, but it was when a few vampires discovered Utakata, things began to change."

"If Utakata was part of the vampire's experiments that survived, and they didn't know — it would only make sense they would want him once he was discovered," Kakashi added.

"It was Kakazu that mentioned the village he was from, before it was destroyed, there was a lone omega pregnant wolf that managed to escape," Itachi said, his eyes looking over the others.

"Pretty good chance that the cub is no other than Utakata hmm?" Kakashi tilted his head at Itachi, giving a grin.

"So what do we do with him now?" It was Shizune, her eyes looking at each alpha in the room.

The alpha's all glanced at each other, as if expecting someone to say something.

"I suggest he stays with the Uzumaki pack," Kakashi hummed. "He has already gotten to know the pack, has developed a relationship with them and proven thus far a faithful friend. Especially with how he protected Sasuke-kun."

Tsunade tapped her fingers on the table, her lips pinched in thought. "What of Fugaku? Certainly he isn't pleased with just leaving this unique wolf with the Uzumaki's?" She leaned in closer to Itachi.

"Hn, he has no authority in this region, no matter what he thinks," Itachi hummed. "I will deal with my father." He nodded his head in a firm manner and the others nodded their heads in agreement.

"Then it's settled. Utakata will stay with Naruto's pack and Kakashi will continue to observe and report Utakata's progress to myself and Shizune. Agreed?" Tsunade glanced at Kakashi. "And it is imperative that any information that the packs know about Utakata stay absolute secret. We don't need any members of the council to come storming in and taking Utakata away to suffer at their hands of what type of testing they deem fit!" Tsunade cracked her knuckles.

Kakashi and Itachi nodded in agreement and stood to take leave.

"Itachi, I would like a word with you before you go. Kakashi, you are dismissed," Tsunade said firmly. "Shizune, please speak with Kakashi and set up future dates when you two can meet so Kakashi can inform you on Utakata's progress." Shizune smiled at Kakashi and the pair left the room, leaving Tsunade and Itachi.

"Now Itachi," Tsunade began, leaning her arms on the table, clasping her fingers together. "I apologise for not getting back to you and your mate regarding your mate's situation."

Itachi held up his hand and shook his head to stop the apology. "There were other more pressing matters to deal with. It is understandable why you were unable to continue with myself and Deidara at the time."

"I wanted to talk to you and Deidara about the test results. Is Deidara available to join us?" Tsunade asked.

Itachi tilted his head slightly, intrigued by the elder alpha's words. "I'm certain he is."

==intermission==

Sasuke was gathering up his items from his room, he was ready to go home. After the funeral the night before, he and Naruto had stayed at the Uchiha manor, Sasuke agreeing that he was too tired, physically and mentally, to make the hours it would take to get home. Naruto had gone to speak to Tsunade before they left, regarding future appointments on his pregnancy.

A soft knock echoed through the room, and Sasuke, being too occupied gathering his things, called out for whomever to enter, not giving much thought on who it would be. He snapped his head up and froze in his position when the familiar scent breached his nose.

"I was hoping to catch you before you leave," the gentle omega voice whispered out.

Sasuke could hear the omega's soft footsteps entering his room, treading carefully around him as if not to scare him. Sasuke felt his heart speed up, his fists clench and his anger begin to stir.

"I'll only be a minute, promise. I–I just wanted to talk, briefly, if you will allow," the soft voice pleaded to him.

Sasuke took a harsh breath, willing himself to calm down. He knew that he should at least allow the omega this much, the omega after all did give him life and even though he fought the idea – he knew she gave a damn about him. She was his mother after all. He glanced to the side, his eyes narrowing at the beautiful woman, her long hair was up in a bun, her clothes were pristine as always, but her eyes shone with sadness and guilt as she looked upon him. She stopped before him, with several feet between them, her hands clasped together and her chin slightly bowed. As beautiful and powerful as she was, Sasuke had to admit his mother certainly looked the part of someone riddled with guilt and seeking forgiveness.

He stared at her for a moment longer before giving her a nod. A silent approval from him of her request, but he continued to gather up his things from the room. She could say what she had to say while he continued to pack his things.

"Sasuke," she started. "Your father and I will be heading home soon, and I had hoped we could talk a little more before we leave." She tilted her head to the side, watching her youngest child carefully.

Sasuke said nothing as he continued to place articles in his bag.

"I understand if you are not willing, so, thank you for giving us," she gestured between herself and him, "this time before you head back."

Sasuke continued to place items in his bag not looking up at his mother.

"I know it doesn't seem like it, but we, your father and I, do love you so very, very much," Mikoto continued. "And what we decided back then may not make sense now, but, know that today, your father and I very much regret it." She pinched her lips, suppressing her bottom lip from quivering.

Sasuke stopped moving, but he did not look back at the omega he called his mother.

"We can't change the past, but–but we both at least hope to work on a better future," she whispered. She had a long talk with Fugaku over the past couple days since the vampire attack. The reality that they drove their youngest son and could have lost him many years ago to a madman who was sick with desires to breed creatures into something that just shouldn't be — then the mental anguish Sasuke suffered that almost had him taking his own life — the vampire attack that brought death and devastation to both the packs – both Uchiha parents began to think more about the future that they could have with their children, future grandchildren, instead of being left behind in the dark and eluded.

"Your father and I, well, we are trying and willing to continue trying, to make the future better— for all of us."

Sasuke turned his head slightly, his mind taking in what his mother had been saying. He still said nothing, for the hurt was still fresh, and after years of disappointment, depression, torment, to name a few. He knew that he couldn't just walk away from all that.

"And, well, we would – I would especially like to see you, before you give birth?" She knew she was asking for a lot, but she had to try. "And well, maybe after? Or you know — I could come visit you and —"

"No."

Mikoto snapped her mouth shut. She knew not to expect Sasuke to accept her and his father with open arms and ready to forgive, but she wouldn't give up.

"I understand," she said sadly, disappointment heavy in her voice. But instead of wallowing, she took a deep breath and straightened her shoulders, pushing out her chest. "Please don't forget that we both love you and your brother so very very much, and would do anything for you two." When Sasuke continued to just stand still, she knew that Sasuke would take time to process what she had said. She had come to say what she needed to say, and even though she secretly prayed that Sasuke would surprise her and give a slight glimmer of hope, she knew not to expect too much.

She crossed the few steps that it took to reach Sasuke's side and she placed a hand between his shoulder blades on his back. She felt him stiffen, but was elated to feel Sasuke relax just as quickly at her touch. "I'll write," she whispered. She rubbed Sasuke's back gently, desperately wanting to bring her child into her arms, but she wouldn't push him.

Sasuke could feel his wolf practically roll over in excitement from the attention he was receiving from his omega mother. He sighed, giving into his wolf and its heart wrenching desires to be around his mother. He turned himself to look directly at her. She was very beautiful, he would never deny that, with her silky smooth skin, her well rounded eyes, long hair and delicate long neck. Those eyes looked upon him with such love, he could feel her aura surrounding him fully, wrapping him tightly making him feel protected and cherished, and he found himself familiar with these sensations and emotions.

'Of course! When he was mentally within himself, engaging with his own pup's mentality, his soft glowing green orb,' he thought to himself. He remembered feeling the immense emotions coming from his green aura, his baby, he would retreat into it at any time, as often as he could – if he could. He found himself pulled from the memory when his mother embraced him in a warm hug. It wasn't firm, it felt as if she was cautious, as if he would push her away immediately. Instead, he just allowed the hug to happen, not reciprocating but just allowing it. His wolf also enjoyed the aura of the omega mother, and Sasuke had to admit that he was finding pleasure being drenched in his mother's scent, sound and feel, something he didn't realise he had actually missed.

She pulled back, raising her hand to cup his cheek, rubbing her thumb along his cheek softly, gently, and with such a tenderness that Sasuke felt himself lean into the touch.

"I'll keep in touch. Know that you can call on me at any time for anything," she whispered with a soft smile upon her lips. She dropped her hand and slowly turned to leave the room. Sasuke watched her go with his eyes only, as his wolf howled out somewhere in the deep recesses of his mind.

Later in the day, Itachi embraced Sasuke tightly at the front of the Uchiha manor, inhaling his scent. "Safe travels otouto, let me know when you arrive back home." Itachi ruffled Sasuke's hair gently when he finally stepped back. Sasuke just slapped at Itachi's hands playfully, giving a scowl on his lips. Naruto just snickered behind him watching the interaction.

"Don't worry Itachi, I'll make sure he gets a message to ya," Naruto grinned while pulling Sasuke into his side.

"Don't forget about those appointments brat," Tsunade's voice came from around the corner, her heels clicking on the floor.

The wolves looked over to see the elder alpha coming to the door, her medical bag in hand, winter jacket in the other. She was followed by Shizune and Kakashi.

"Are you heading home baa-chan?" Naruto asked.

"Hn, my work here is done," Tsunade responded when she stopped and slipped on her jacket. She glanced at Itachi, "and I'll talk to you soon as well." She gave Itachi a firm nod.

Sasuke just glanced at the interaction but said nothing. He quietly prayed that Tsunade was able to help Deidara and Itachi with their situation soon. His thoughts were broken when he felt warm arms grasp him from behind, causing him to gasp in surprise.

"Bye baby! I'll come visit soon 'un!"

Sasuke sighed as he allowed his omega brother in law to hug him tightly and scent him gently.

"There will be no working for you otouto, just work on your studies," Itachi added while Deidara continued to fuss over his little brother. Sasuke gave a harumph sound at being told he couldn't work the club, but deep down he knew that it wasn't in his or his baby's best interest to work the club. It was loud, noisy, smokey and people were continuously moving about and he wouldn't risk getting knocked to the floor or worse.

Shizune bowed to the alpha's, saying her goodbyes, and heading out with Tsunade. Kakashi was next, and he bowed to Itachi before turning to Naruto. "I'll be over in the next few days to check in Naruto," he said as he slipped on his jacket and boots. "Call me if anything weird or worrisome happens." He slapped Naruto's shoulder with an outlined grin in his mask. "See you soon!" he called out while slipping out the door.

A gentle clearing of the throat was heard, the four wolves turned to see Fugaku, Mikoto, Obito, and Izumi standing in a row with Kakazu behind them.

"Love you 'un," Deidara suddenly said and kissed Sasuke's cheek. He quickly hugged Naruto as well before walking past the elder Uchiha clan members. He gave a glare to Fugaku, using his two pointer fingers to point at his own eyes before pointing them at Fugaku. A silent warning to Fugaku from the long haired blonde omega that Fugaku better watch his mouth. Deidara then turned up his nose and strode out of the room, leaving the Uchiha's alone.

Obito and Izumi strode up to Sasuke, Izumi pulling Sasuke into a firm hug.

"Take care little cousin, hope to see you again soon, and take care of yourself," she whispered into his ear. She then looked up at the blond alpha. "And you," she pointed her finger into the blonde's chest, "you better take good care of him or I'll come for you." A growl erupted in her chest and she stood as tall as she could, her eyes glaring into blue.

"Izumi," Sasuke warned his cousin with a growl of his own.

Naruto just stared back at the Uchiha woman, silently hoping that his mate wouldn't start anything with his cousin. But, he couldn't help feeling extremely turned on listening to his mate defend him from an unmated female. His alpha agreed and turned up the heat in his lower regions, making his cock twitch with interest.

Izumi just smiled at Sasuke, blowing him a kiss as she stood back and Obito came in next to give Sasuke a hug as well. "Take care little cousin, I hope to hear from you when it's time for him or her to come! I would love to meet the little critter!" Obito kissed Sasuke on the cheek, this time it was Naruto's time to give a warning growl. Obito glared over at the blonde alpha.

"Naruto," Sasuke warned and shoved Naruto in the shoulder. Naruto just huffed and looked the other way but was still standing close to Sasuke. Sasuke shook his head. He had no idea why the two alpha were continuously butting heads, but he was at a point now that he was used to it. Obito took a stand beside Uzumi, who were off to the side as Fugaku and Mikoto came to stand before their son's. Naruto scratched the back of his neck and took a couple steps to the side, giving the Uchiha's and their son's a bit of privacy.

"Sasuke," Fugaku started and he stood rather close to Sasuke. "I am very proud of you son, and do take care of yourself." He folded his arms and pinched his lips, as if he was thinking on what to say next. "It would be great, and — appreciated if you could keep your mother and I… updated — on… on your progression. And any details that you would like, or would like us to know, to share."

Sasuke just stared at his father, feeling shocked at how he could see how Fugaku struggled just trying to say the words he did. Sasuke kept his face indifferent, and took this interesting new information of his father into consideration to be analysed at a later date. Though his father still kept his eyes firmly on him, not backing down, Sasuke could feel the flutter of uncertainty — or fear? — coming from his father. Perhaps it was because he was omega that he could suddenly notice such things, but it didn't matter at this moment.

Mikoto picked that moment to step up beside Fugaku and thread her arm through her husbands, and gave a supportive pat on his arm. She smiled at her husband then turned her soft smile to Sasuke. "Do take care Sasuke darling. We both love you very much, are both proud of you, and I certainly hope someone will let us know how you are progressing." She lifted her hand and cupped Sasuke's cheek, and she inwardly cheered when Sasuke leaned into her touch for just a moment. At that moment, she quickly leaned in close and planted a gentle kiss on Sasuke's forehead.

Naruto then grabbed Sasuke's bag, helping him slip into his winter jacket before turning to look at the elder Uchiha's. He bowed before them, "Uchiha-sama, Uchiha-san, thank you for your help again with my pack."

Fugaku and Mikoto nodded and waved at the pair as they made their way out to Naruto's jeep. Itachi hummed when the jeep finally was out of sight of the manor. There had been a small step of progress today, and he let himself smile.

==x00x00x00x00x00x==

A few days later, Utakata found himself sitting in the Uzumaki kitchen, dragged into a discussion that he had no idea what to say or how to participate. Sakura had sat him down at the table along with Hinata, and grabbed a pad of paper before sitting with the two others. Sakura had asked a surge of questions at Utakata such as;

'What type of flavour do you like? Vanilla? Chocolate? Strawberry? Are you allergic to any foods? Are you a fan of shrimp? Is there a certain type of drink you like?'

Utakata was unable to answer these questions, though he knew what they were, but he had never been exposed to many different foods and drinks throughout his years. But Sakura did not scorn him for not knowing and would gently explain the differences and flavours. She, along with Hinata, had eventually begun to pull out various foods of all colours and sorts and had Utakata try each one that he may not have been familiar with.

And now, the two beta wolves were chatting about decorations, colours and a type of cake? Utakata continued to sit still, being polite but also curious to listen to the two women plan for celebrations in the Uzumaki home.

"What's a birthday?" Utakata asked, his curiosity got the better of him, hearing the word being used in several sentences and explanations. Both beta women stopped talking immediately and turned their heads to look at him. Utakata looked between the two women, suddenly feeling very nervous. 'Did he say something wrong?' He suddenly felt very insecure that he dared open his mouth and began to belittle himself at thinking that it was okay to do so.

"Oh sweety," Sakura cooed. "How stupid of me to not think of you!" She reached out and grasped Utataka's hand in her own, an affectionate smile on her lips. She and Hinata shuffled closer to the wolf and both began to explain.

A few days later, Utakata now found himself assisting the two beta women with hanging up various colourful paper articles around one of the main living rooms of the Uzumaki home. The excitement that filled the home in the last few days, he had to admit, intrigued him and he was interested in learning more about these celebrations.

How curious it was that people celebrated the day of their births every year and the arrival of a new pup in the same type of way. He wondered if this would have happened to him should his mother had still been alive, and living in the village she had come from. Did his mother's parents have celebrations like this for her? Did others in their village do the same for their pups? He had listened and watched for the past few days, when the two beta wolves told Naruto and Nagato of their idea for Kimimaro and Sasuke. Naruto had expressed that Sasuke may not appreciate a baby shower, but the two wolves expressed that it wouldn't be overbearing. Naruto appeared to be excited for this — baby shower and promised to convince Sasuke to attend. Naruto and Nagato of course were agreeable to the idea of having a birthday celebration for Kimimaro and both offered to assist in any way possible. So here Utakata was, somewhat eager to see just how these celebrations would pan out.

Watching Kimimaro blow out 17 candles on a cake was a curious behaviour, so Utakata thought. According to the others, this was how old Kimimaro was at least, as the group compiled dates, times and seasons to determine how old the little omega was. 'Meaningless task,' Utakata thought to himself during the process. But watching the young omega wolf's eyes sparkle with excitement when he saw those candles, changed his thought process. Those green eyes watered with tears, though Utakata didn't think Kimimaro was sad, because he smiled and laughed when those tears fell during the excitement of everyone yelling and singing happy birthday. The cake was incredibly sweet, something Utakata wasn't familiar with, but he found himself enjoying the delectable dessert and wondered why he hadn't found something so tantalising before.

When it came time for giving packages with brightly coloured paper, Kimimaro happily ripped at them whereas Sasuke slowly opened his packages carefully, as if not to rip the colourful paper.

All in all, the atmosphere of the home was incredibly relaxed, the wolves were laughing, chatting, eating and looking over the arrangement of gifts that were given to the two omegas. Often someone would come up to him and ask him gently if he had any questions or if he was enjoying himself. Utakata sat in one of the big arm chairs feeling content in the room. He felt that he could certainly enjoy living like this.

After all the festivities were finished, Utakata was now enjoying a hot cup of tea with Sakura, Kiba and Hinata. Kimimaro had gone back to the cabins with his loot of gifts, with Konan, Nagato and Iwai. Konan mentioned something about Iawi needing his nap as well as Kimimaro. Kyuubi had chuckled, put his arm around Kimimaro's shoulders and helped him carry his gifts back to the cabin. Naruto had taken Sasuke back to their room, Sasuke mentioning that a nap was a good idea.

"So Utakata, any thoughts on the party?" Hinata asked as she sipped her tea.

Utakata thought for a moment, a flurry of emotions he had indeed submitted to this day, but really, he felt — "it was nice." It was the only thing that he could think of that came to mind, and he decided that yes indeed, he could enjoy doing such things like that again in the future.

"When we find out when your birthday is, we will do it again," Sakura chirped and winked at Utakata.

Utakata's eyes opened wide at the unexpected comment, completely surprised at the thought. Sakura and Hinata just giggled and continued sipping at their tea. It was a good day after all.

==x00x00x00x00x00x==

Kyuubi raced through the snow filled forest, his paws kicking up snow with every movement, every turn and leap, and he felt the exhilaration flowing through him, leaving him feeling light, relaxed and excited.

The sun was high in the sky, causing the snow to sparkle and Kyuubi snapped his jaws at his side when the blond wolf came up beside him at a full sprint. The two wolves playfully snapped and barked at each other as they sprinted through the snow, kicking it up and attempting to knock the other over.

'Getting slow in your old age K'ubs!' Naruto teased through their bond while nipping at Kyuubi's heels.

'Talking about yourself papa?' Kyuubi teased back as he leaped over a rotting tree covered heavily in snow. 'Look at you, becoming a father, just goes to show you're getting up there in age! Before you know it you'll be a grandpa!' Kyuubi laughed through the bond and quickly twisted to the side that left Naruto heading in a different direction.

The two wolves continued to banter as they chased each other through the forest. The pair hadn't been able to just relax with each other for who knows how long, and Kyuubi found himself feeling sentimental. The history the two had together was long, and the last couple years had both of them going through some traumatic shit that matured them both. He had to admit it, his thought process certainly changed.

'EEEPP!' Kyuubi cried out when he unceremoniously fell into the snow, his front leg had been caught up in Naruto's gentle bite, causing him to suddenly stop. The force that he was running at had him barrelling into the snow, causing the snow to fly up in a flurry of white with Naruto laughing throughout the whole ordeal.

'Careful now, thinking too hard can cause a fall!' Naruto chortled as he paced around the snow covered red wolf.

Kyuubi blew out a huff and stood up, Naruto cackling even louder seeing the huge mounds of snow covering his pack brother. 'Oh my god! You–you could pass for a snowman!' Naruto couldn't hold back his laughter. 'All you're missing is a carrot for a nose! W-wait wait! I think I saw one over there,' Naruto fell to his back, rolling about, his paws wiggling in the air as he laughed and laughed.

Kyuubi shook his heavy wolf body, the snow flying in all directions as he cleaned himself off. He took one look at the blond wolf rolling around in the snow, laughter echoing throughout his mind before he leaped and began romping with the blond. 'I'll show you old man!' Kyuubi howled out in mirth as he began to wrestle the blonde wolf.

Sometime later, the pair of wolves were sitting quietly overlooking a frozen lake, listening to the calls of various birds and animals that carried on the wind. The sun was settled at a lower level, indicating it was later in the day but both wolves did not seem to be in a rush to leave. The gentle breeze carried over the lake and brushed over the two wolves fur, as if grooming them.

'So, your own pack hm?' Naruto broke their silence. He tilted his head towards the other, his tall blond ears poked straight up and listened. He didn't forget about what Kyuubi had said the other day, and Naruto would admit he was shocked, and perhaps a little hurt at the thought. But after thinking about Kyuubi seeking his own path, the obvious courting going on between him and Kimimaro, Naruto wanted the best for his pack brother.

'Hn,' Kyuubi answered. He wasn't sure what more he could say. It was a shock to him as it was most likely to the other that he had considered such a thing.

Noticing that Kyuubi wasn't going to say more, Naruto continued. 'I can honestly say that I was shocked when you mentioned it,' Naruto hummed, keeping his voice steady. 'Well, cause you know, I could never imagine life– well, without you.' His voice cracked a little at the end and Naruto looked back at the red wolf.

Kyuubi turned his head to the other after hearing the emotion behind the words. 'I never had ever thought of having my own pack either,' he admitted and looked back out across the lake. 'It's always been us, together, and when I thought I lost you —' He trailed off. A whimper from Naruto indicating for him to continue, he found the strength to. 'I thought I lost you when you were in that coma. I was so scared, yet so pissed off that I needed to bring whoever shot you down. And when I thought I lost Kimimaro, Konan and Nagato — I couldn't deal with it. It was too painful.'

Kyuubi still looked across the frozen lake. He couldn't look at Naruto, feeling his body shiver with emotions, remembering the times that he thought it was over. How he was alone and the pain of it, he didn't want to remain. He succumbed to the power of his wolf, as it was the best way, at the time, to not have to deal with the overpowering grief.

'I considered myself weak, unable to protect anyone I cared for. I couldn't save you, and then I couldn't save the others. How could a wolf, who is as weak as me, lead a pack?' He suddenly released a howl.

Naruto watched Kyuubi release his pain through the howl. He could feel the emotional turmoil coming from Kyuubi through the bond and through his song. Naruto couldn't imagine the anguish that his pack brother went through. Sure Naruto suffered with his own set of hardships, but his heart hurt watching, feeling and listening to Kyuubi finally release long pent up pain through his song.

He stepped up closer to the red wolf, who still continued his song, pushing through his pain and heartache, and sat next to him. He leaned against his brother, showing his support through touch and head rubs. Kyuubi needed this, he was on his healing journey, finally.

It was well into the evening before the pair returned to the Uzumaki home. Both were exhausted, physically and especially mentally, from the events they shared tonight.

Naruto shook off his hair when he entered the home, Sasuke quickly wrapped a blanket around his naked mate. Sakura had a blanket ready for Kyuubi as well, and he thanked her with a nod.

"Suppers on the table and still warm," Sakura said. She smiled at the two alphas and left the room, knowing that they still needed their time. "The three of us are going out to check out the borders," she called out over her shoulder.

After getting some clothes on, the two alphas went to the kitchen to get their share of dinner. Sasuke followed, making sure Naruto had vegetables on his plate as well. He knew how much the blond liked to avoid eating them. He smirked when the blond alpha pouted at him when Sasuke put a huge serving of veggies on the plate. Kyuubi chuckled in the background.

After eating their share of large servings, Kyuubi said goodnight to the two and headed off to bed. Sasuke gathered up the dishes and began getting them ready for the dishwasher. It wasn't long before large warm hands circled his waist and soft kisses were being peppered on his neck. He hummed at the attention and tilted his head slightly so the blond could get full access.

"Things go well tonight?" Sasuke hummed through the attention while continuing to put the last of the dishes into the dishwasher.

"It was good," Naruto responded while rubbing his hands over the slight swelling of Sasuke's stomach. "He's worried about starting a pack." Naruto then manoeuvred Sasuke to turn around to face him. He stared at the black eyes that he always felt himself getting lost in, seeing nothing but devotion and love for him. Not being able to keep himself back, he cupped Sasuke's smooth cheeks and pulled the omega in for a sensual kiss.

Naruto purred when Sasuke quickly reciprocated the kiss, by pushing himself closer to the alpha, his swollen belly pushing gently against him. Naruto's inner alpha released a hunger of pride at the feeling of their cub pushing against him, but at the same time, triggering Naruto's cock to immediately harden in excitement.

Sasuke laced his arms around the blonde's neck, hugging him tightly and lifting himself onto his toes. His omega was content in the alpha's arms, for a change, having finally accepted that they were worthy of the alpha. He would admit that the omega entity had managed to convince him on several occasions, mentally, that he was weak, not worthy, of being in the pack due to the trauma of the near suicide attempt. The warmth and vibration of the alpha in his arms helped calm his inner turmoil and insecurities and he pushed himself harder into Naruto's kiss.

"Sas'k, so beautiful," Naruto hummed through broken kisses. "My perfect, amazing mate," he added. His hands travelled down Sasuke's back, tracing the omega's spine until his hands fell upon Sasuke's firm ass. His fingers massaged and squeezed at the muscle, his hips gently pushed against Sasuke, his cock tingling with excitement with every brush of pressure. Moving his lips to Sasuke's cheek and tracing his jaw line, Naruto purred loudly with each kitten lick and kiss. "Want you, in my bed, in my arms — all of you."

Sasuke's body began to tremble with pleasurable warm tingles and his slick began to warm between his legs. His omega purred loudly at the attention it was receiving and began to release an inviting scent that had Naruto start to growl and lap at his neck eagerly. When the alpha grasped his ass tightly and began to lift, Sasuke happily complied by quickly lacing his legs around the alpha's hips. His cock rubbed against the strong alpha's abdomen, and he couldn't help but to release a groan when the pleasurable sensations shot through his body. He tucked his nose into the alpha's neck and began to suckle on the tanned skin, determined to leave his mark on the blonde.

Naruto growled with want as he turned, Sasuke latched securely to his body, and he walked them both carefully up the stairs to their room. Kicking their bedroom door closed with his foot, Sasuke still nibbling at his neck, he quickly moved to their large bed. He lifted a knee to get them both into the bed and slowly moved Sasuke lower into the centre of his half completed nest before finding his lips and thrusting his tongue into the moist cavern of his mate. The alpha growled hungrily when Sasuke responded with his own tongue, creating a dance between their lips, hunting for dominance over the other.

Naruto's hands travelled over Sasuke's body, his fingers quickly and easily making work of what little clothes the omega had on without breaking their heated kiss. Sasuke's body trembled beneath him, moaning through his breaths while the alpha's fingers caused goosebumps to rise wherever he touched. The heat built between the core of his legs, and he lifted his hips as Naruto quickly slid his underwear off his legs.

"Sas—Sas, so hot for me," Naruto growled in Sasuke's ear while dipping his thick fingers between Sasuke's legs to tease the opening, already drenched with slick. Sasuke's head arched back, his eyes closed when Naruto's fingers breached his hole. And Naruto's alpha preened seeing how the omega was writhing in desires and releasing a heady scent of want. Naruto's blood pumped fast and heavy into his already achingly hard cock, pushing against the confine of his jeans while he slowly fingered his mate.

"Fuck Sas, you smell so— you taste so–so…" Naruto couldn't form words as his lips and tongue tasted every inch of skin on Sasuke's chest, while his fingers gently rubbed upon the inner walls of Sasuke's opening.

Sasuke growled when his hands felt clothes still on Naruto's form. He grabbed the blond's thick hair quickly, pulling Naruto's face up to his. Lust filled and pleasure glazed blue eyes looked up at him, his lips glistening with moisture from the onslaught of nips, licks and kisses. Sasuke narrowed his eyes, using his other hand to grasp at Naruto's shirt. "Get these off, now," he growled, his small canines poking out over his bottom lip.

Wasting no time after hearing his growling demands from his mate, that oh fuck, just turned him on even more, Naruto ripped his jeans and shirt off, and engulfed Sasuke's cock immediately afterwards.

Sasuke's head fell back against the pillows, his lip encased between his teeth at the sudden heat that swallowed his cock whole. "Ssshhhiiit Naru—" he breathed out, his hands grasping at Naruto's head, guiding it up and down over his shaft. He circled his thighs around the blond's head, his fingers yanking at the blond locks while his back arched.

Naruto purred loudly, allowing the vibrations to go through his mouth. He grasped the taunt ball sack and tugged, causing Sasuke to groan out at the overwhelming sensations. Suckling harder, he dragged his teeth against Sasuke's member, gently catching the rim of the cock head that had Sasuke howling with pleasure. Opening his eyes he took in the flushed shaking form of his mate, it almost made him cum on the spot. Dipping his tongue into the small slit where precome continued to spurt, was all it took for Sasuke to arch his back, his grip to become tight in Naruto's hair and a satisfying howl to escape his lips.

Sasuke's hips began bucking into that tight heated mouth of his mate, sparks flashing behind his eyes. "OH fuck, oh fuck — fuck!" he cried out, letting the electric shocks of pleasure guide his body. Naruto's lips stayed fastened to his cock as it shot bursts of cum deep into his throat. "Jeezuz fuuuuuuck," Sasuke choked out while his legs trembled from the orgasm that ripped through his muscles.

Naruto lapped and nursed at Sasuke's cock, twirling his tongue around the swollen head, swallowing around it, taking every bit of Sasuke's milk and the alpha growled with want. When Sasuke released his hair, Naruto finally released the softening sensitive omega cock and dipped his face down to Sasuke's drenched opening. Sasuke hummed out with shaking pleasure as Naruto began tonguing at the entrance, Naruto's fingers pulling open his cheeks so his tongue could reach as deep as possible. The taste was so sweet, devine, Naruto felt he could just drown in Sasuke's slick essence and die content.

Sasuke's toes curled and he lifted his ass off the bed slightly, the rush of sensations coming from Naruto tonguing and lapping at his entrance sending waves of pleasure through him.

"Ah f-f-fuck Naru-toooo," Sasuke hummed. His orgasm had just washed through him and he was now being rushed with more pleasurable sensations as an aftershock. His omega preened and howled with excitement, practically salivating at how the alpha was pleasing them both. He struggled to keep his body still, as his muscles twitched and arched beyond his control.

Naruto took one last long lick across Sasuke's entrance before moving up and placing soft kisses upon the omega's swollen abdomen. He then sat up, shifted to his knees between the omega's legs and gently brought Sasuke's leg to his lips. Naruto began placing feather light kisses upon Sasuke's leg, moving slowly up to his ankle while his eyes roved over Sasuke's body. Sasuke's soft unblemished porcelain skin was glowing beautifully with a blush that reached from his face down to his hips. While Naruto's lips continued to kiss inch by inch up Sasuke's leg, his eyes continued to rove over Sasuke's body, his alpha vibrating with pride when he focused on the pronounced swelling, where his pup was nestled safely inside his mate.

Naruto dragged his one hand slowly, softly back and forth over the swelling, his heart filling with such a protective force that twisted with the intensity of love for both Sasuke and his pup. His alpha drove these emotions so hard through him, that he felt the familiar sting behind his eyes and lump forming in his throat.

"Naruto?" Sasuke suddenly whispered, catching Naruto's attention.

Naruto could see those beautiful warm dark eyes looking at him with concern.

"Are you alright?" Sasuke asked and reached up to cup Naruto's cheek.

Naruto took a shaky breath, trying to calm his overwhelmed emotions that had suddenly ploughed through him. Sasuke's thumb gently stroked over his cheek and Naruto blinked in surprise when he realised that Sasuke had wiped away a tear that fell from his own eye. He quickly gathered the omega in his arms, tucking his nose into Sasuke's hair, inhaling the rich intoxicating scent that he could never get enough of.

"Naru—what?" Sasuke whispered while dragging his fingers through the locks while the alpha hugged and scented him.

Naruto then pulled back, dragging his fingers down Sasuke's cheek and jaw line. He took in the fine features of Sasuke's face, the soft silk feeling of his thick black hair, those deep black coloured eyes that looked at him with such devotion and trust at every turn. Naruto again felt himself getting overwhelmed with a mixture of possessive and overprotective emotions for his mate.

Sasuke immediately seemed to understand and moved in, pushing his lips on the alpha, gently, dragging his tongue, guiding Naruto's face to meld with his own. The alpha responded, giving Sasuke control and Sasuke poured as much emotion as he could into his kiss. He realised Naruto needed this, to know that he, his mate, his omega, who carried their pup, was here for him, and wasn't going anywhere.

The pair took their time with their kiss, allowing their tongues to dance slowly, heatedly, tasting each other fully and allowing their lips to fully feel the heat of the other. Their hands and fingers slowly traced and explored each other's bodies; touching each other's skin, hair, nipples, lines of muscle, until Naruto guided Sasuke onto his back without breaking their sensual kiss.

Surrounded by Sasuke's soft materials as part of his new nest, their mingled scents, the mates did not rush, both content on touching, tasting and feeling each other at a slow sensuous pace. For once, in such a long time, the two only heard each other, felt each other and allowed themselves to just be the two of them within their own space for the rest of the night.

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I can honestly say that Love Thy is almost completed! It's been a long, most wonderful journey and I really can't wait to start posting my new WIPS! But that isn't happening until this is over and possibly Stand by Me as well.

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