Chapter 25
The bug guy was sent flying off his feet. Naruto winced, as did Hinata, but he noticed that Kiba merely shrugged it off. Shino had always been creepy, was always easily offended when it came to his bugs, and protective. But that wasn't the most important thing right now. Sasuke had been taken off the matches, and Naruto had no idea why. Sakura had said something about a mark though.
"Sakura," Naruto whispered.
"Yeah?"
"What's this about a mark on Sasuke? You sounded worried."
Sakura shrugged nervously. "It's nothing really. Izumi and Kakashi sensei are dealing with it now."
Naruto frowned. "Why are you all keeping something from me? What did that creepy snake woman do to Sasuke?"
"It's nothing you need to worry about."
Naruto scowled. "Of course it is. Sasuke is our team mate, but we also live together and my mate-"
Sakura scoffed, crossing her arms. "Some mate. You rarely ever try to help him."
Naruto bristled. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"When was the last time you did anything nice for Sasuke?" Sakura rolled her eyes. "He's supposed to be your mate, yet I've made more advances in romantic gestures than you. It's like you don't even care."
"None of us have even presented yet," Naruto said. "And why would I want to try romance Sasuke? I want to beat him!"
Sakura sighed. "You're hopeless, Naruto. I don't know why I even try."
Naruto didn't get it. What was the rush anyway? They hadn't even presented yet but Sakura was obsessed with romancing Sasuke. They weren't even mates, he and Sasuke were, but neither of them cared about that.
So why was she so worked up?
Naruto supposed it didn't matter. He was a bit worried about Sasuke, but with both Izumi and Kakashi sensei looking after him he should be perfectly fine. Nothing to worry about! Sasuke would be back out with them and in the exams in no time at all. Sure, it was annoying that nobody was telling him what was going on, but he'd pester them later about it. Naruto grinned. Yeah, they'd tell him, even if that meant bribing Kakashi sensei with food.
.::.
Kakashi finished the blood writing. Izumi blanched. It looked way too complicated for her, but she supposed Kakashi would find seals easier since he was pretty by raised by two seal experts. The Fourth Hokage and his wife were supposed to be amazing with seals after all, if she recalled rightly.
"Okay." Kakashi nodded, satisfied. "Brace yourself, Sasuke. I'll get this over with as quickly as I can."
Sasuke nodded.
Kakashi went through a bucket load of hand seals before his chakra flared. "Curse sealing!" Kakashi placed his hand on the mark and his chakra flared even brighter. Sasuke screamed at first, then gasped breathlessly as the seal blood marks absorbed quickly into the curse mark, forming a cage around the seal.
Sasuke collapsed to his hands and knees, gasping and whimpering. Kakashi made a few soothing noises from the back of his throat, much to Izumi's amusement. He really was becoming more of a mother-hen as time went on, huh? Kakashi knelt beside Sasuke.
"You're done," Kakashi soothed. "Now, the next time that curse mark starts acting up the seal should keep it in check." His voice hardened and he forced Sasuke to meet his gaze. "But remember this seal is only as strong as you are. If your will power weakens and you begin to lose faith and doubt yourself, the curse will be unleashed in all its fury."
Sasuke's eyes grew heavy and he collapsed into Kakashi's arms. Izumi sighed in relief, while Kakashi threw her a smile. "For once he's too tired to even argue."
Izumi grinned.
"My, how you've grown, Kakashi."
They both froze.
Izumi had her swords out in an instant and put herself between Kakashi, Sasuke and Orochimaru. Kakashi tucked Sasuke into his arms, ready to retreat while she played distraction. If she needed to go feral again she would happily let her Omega bitch slap the shit out of Orochimaru again. But she really didn't want Kakashi and Sasuke around when she did it.
"To think you've become strong enough to perform the curse sealing jutsu," Orochimaru said warmly, stepping out of the shadows. "It's been a long time, pup."
Kakashi glowered. "Orochimaru."
"It is lovely to see you again. You look so much like your parents." Orochimaru smiled. "But I'm sorry to admit that I'm not actually here to see you. I'm here for Sasuke."
"So you want his Sharingan, huh?" Kakashi scoffed. "Couldn't get Itachi Uchiha's?"
Huh? Izumi blinked. What did he mean by that?
Orochimaru paused. "What drew you to that conclusion, pup?"
"Itachi would have been the easier target. He's a rogue ninja, with no backing of a village. He has no walls to keep him safe, nor a village full of ninja. So of course you would have gone for him first. But you couldn't defeat him, could you?"
Izumi frowned. "So if he couldn't beat Itachi he needed to go after the next best person..."
"Exactly." Kakashi nodded.
Orochimaru laughed. "Even while you're pregnant your brain is still running miles. I'm afraid you're correct. Itachi is still far too strong, and is backed by a powerful organisation. I can't really lay a hand on him. But Sasuke? He will be easy pickings. The boy will happily run to me to avenge his family-"
"Not if I have anything to say about it," Izumi sneered.
What concerned her even more was that Itachi was apart of an organisation. What organisation? What were their goals? Was it mass murder or something even worse? Fuck. She couldn't understand her damned mate at all, could she?
"You surprised me the last time, but don't think you can injure me again. You and Kakashi, one a half breed, and the other gifted with a Sharingan because your mate wanted to protect you even after he died." Orochimaru chuckled. "How romantic. But let's face it. Neither of you can do anything against me, especially not when I get a full-bloodied Uchiha in my grasp."
"So you want to lure Sasuke to your side by telling him you will defeat Itachi, or by training him so he can defeat Itachi when you couldn't do so in the first place?" Kakashi smirked. "You must be going through quite the training routine right now yourself."
"I'm surprised that clever tongue of yours hasn't gotten you into trouble yet," Orochimaru sneered. "I'd be careful, pup. You aren't exactly in the best condition to mock me."
Izumi bristled.
"What's your game here?" Kakashi frowned. "It can't just be because of Sasuke."
"The Sound village that everyone is curious about is mine. You see I created it." Orochimaru smiled. "You're clever, Kakashi. I doubt you need me to say anymore."
So he was a Kage now? No, that wasn't right. Was it? Or maybe he was trying to become a Kage by using the Sound to attack the Leaf? Urgh, hopefully Kakashi knew.
"You and your wild ideas." Kakashi grimaced.
Orochimaru chuckled. "Of course. But you see, to play the game as you put it, I need pieces on the chest board."
"So those three Sound ninja are your willing pawns," Izumi mused. "But where are the rest?"
"All in due time," Orochimaru hushed. "No need to spoil the entire game."
"So is Sasuke one of your pawns too?" Kakashi scowled.
"No, not at all. He's a highly valuable piece. One I intend to savour. The Sound pieces, you mentioned, Izumi. Those are easily discarded."
"Harsh." Izumi grimaced.
A wave of terror suddenly hit her. Kakashi tensed up behind her too, and she could feel his Omega's distress. Izumi tightened her grasps on her swords, but they shook in her hands.
Shit. Shit. Shit. Genjutsu. Orochimaru's genjutsu!
Orochimaru was getting closer. Step by step. Izumi tried to shake off the fear. He was coming for Sasuke. Her pup. Her family.
Our pup.
Izumi raised her swords, just as Chidori crackled from Kakashi's hand. Their eyes red, Sharingan's blazing. Sasuke was now laid down behind them, and Izumi realised that Kakashi wouldn't be able to run. Orochimaru would chase him no matter what.
Nor could she just leave Kakashi behind to be bait.
"You take another step and one of us will die here!" Kakashi spat.
"Now, now," Orochimaru hushed. "You should be more considerate of your own health, Kakashi. You have a baby to think of."
Kakashi shivered.
"Who said he was alone? We'll beat your ass into next year, you creepy fuck!" Izumi sneered.
"You shall show me the power of the Uchiha? A half blood? Your bloodline isn't as strong as Sasuke's," Orochimaru chuckled. "It's why I wouldn't bother coming after you."
"Oh get off your fucking high horse!" Izumi spat. "There are a lot of amazing clans, so why the obsession with us? Is it just because we're almost extinct?"
"Really, you two are just amusing," Orochimaru mocked. "Do you really believe Kakashi's seal will hold? The boy's gone through so much trauma at the hands of Itachi. It's made him an avenger. We all know he will never stop."
"And you think you can take advantage of that?" Kakashi panted, his breathing growing heavier. "I won't let you. Not with Sasuke!"
"You really have bonded yourself to these genin," Orochimaru said, startled. "I'm surprised, you're usually such a lone wolf. But I guess you're finally letting yourself grow a pack."
Kakashi shivered again, but this time his hands shook. Izumi realised what was going on at that moment. His chakra was draining, and fast.
Izumi sneered. "Stop fucking with him."
"I'm not. I'm genuinely happy for him. He and his mother are far too alike in personality. And because of that she rarely allowed anyone in her pack. Sakumo was certainly a relentless man." Orochimaru tilted his head. "You and Rita were always far too hopeful though. Sasuke will come to me. He will want me to give him power-"
Orochimaru cursed, stepping back into a defensive stance. Izumi flinched as a vaguely familiar orange masked man swirled into existence beside Kakashi. Kakashi's 'Mr. Kidnapper' grabbed Kakashi's wrist, forcing his Chidori up and out the way.
"Stop, Kakashi. You're only tiring yourself out. You're drained even faster in your condition."
Kakashi obeyed, but reluctantly. The electricity slowly fizzled out, and Kakashi leaned against Mr. Kidnapper shakily. Mr. Kidnapper's arms braced him. Mr. Kidnapper raised his head, pointedly staring at Orochimaru.
"Hello, Orochimaru."
Orochimaru cursed. "You're the baby's-" Orochimaru grimaced. "Ah, I see. You two have bonded. How unexpected, but I suppose with both your mates dead it works out."
Kakashi bristled, but Mr. Kidnapper tugged him closer, hushing him. "You might be a distant pack mate to Kakashi from Rita Hatake's side, but that won't stop me from killing you. Especially after you betrayed us in the first place."
Izumi frowned. Who was this 'us'? And Orochimaru had been Rita Hatake's pack mate? Bloody hell. Izumi was surprised that Orochimaru even had friends.
"You're lucky I have someone important to deal with," Mr. Kidnapper growled lowly. "But if you keep irritating me, I might just have to pay you a personal visit some time soon. I highly doubt you want that."
"Agreed. Fine, I shall not try to claim Sasuke today. But soon. Neither of you can protect him forever." Orochimaru glanced at her and Kakashi, then turned on his heel and disappeared into the shadows.
Mr. Kidnapper rubbed Kakashi's back in soothing circles. "Relax. He's gone."
"He wants Sasuke!" Kakashi bristled.
"I know," Mr. Kidnapper hushed. "But you have to calm down. Stress isn't good for you or the baby-"
"I am calm!" Kakashi snapped.
Izumi winced.
"I can see that," Mr. Kidnapper said warily. "How about Izumi Uchiha takes Sasuke to the medics and guards him? Meanwhile you can check on your other pups. How does that sound?"
"I'm not happy," Kakashi grumbled.
"I know, I know," Mr. Kidnapper sighed softly. "Just relax against me for a bit before you grow dizzy."
Kakashi muttered something that sounded slightly murderous to Izumi's ears. She decided to stay out of it and go pick up Sasuke, settling him into her arms.
"Kakashi, I'm taking Sasuke to medical. You going to be okay here?"
"Peachy." Kakashi glowered, the Omega's scent sparking.
Oh yeah, he was in a bad mood. Izumi threw him a strained smile and quickly retreated.
.::.
Kakashi jabbed his finger into Obito's chest. "You scared Orochimaru away!"
Wasn't that a good thing? Sure, he could have killed him, but Orochimaru might be somewhat useful later down the line. Besides, Kabuto was keeping an eye on him from what Sasori had said. Obito would know if he was causing too much of an issue.
"Yes?" Obito winced. "That's a good thing."
"You should have gutted him!" Kakahsi hissed.
Obito sweat dropped. Okay, no, he wasn't used to this angry, murderous Kakashi. The Omega's scent was drowning the room from sheer rage. To the point Izumi retreated with Sasuke cradled in her arms.
"You seem to be a little bit bloodthirsty today..."
Kakashi glared.
Shit. Maybe strawberry cake would make him happy? Obito had no idea, but Kakashi was leaning into his touch despite the anger, so Obito kept rubbing his back, soothing out the tension. Obito cooed, trying to calm Kakashi down, and even nuzzled his neck, but Kakashi kept glowering.
He didn't know how to fix this.
He didn't know how to make a pregnant, hormonal Kakashi happy again. Not when he was so pissed off and needed a nap. Kakashi's chakra was heavily drained and why couldn't Kakashi just go to sleep instead of hissing at him?
"Kashi, sweetheart," Obito began.
"I will end you," Kakashi threatened, clutching his scarf tightly.
Obito winced. "I tried to help?"
"You just appear out of nowhere, chased Orochimaru away before I could get more information out of him, and didn't even bother to kill him for my sanity's sake? Now I'm going to wonder where he is, and if he's stalking Sasuke and if I'm going to have to murder everyone that goes near Sasuke because they might be a creepy bastard!" Kakashi ranted. "How is that helping?"
"You were tired?"
"Of course I'm tired! I'm growing a baby!"
Obito's Alpha whined. They had upset their mate. They needed to fix this. Mate should be happy with them not angry. Fix it. Fix it. Fix it.
He was trying dammit!
"I'm sorry?" Obito tried.
The anger drained away, but much to Obito's horror it turned to distress.
"No, don't be sorry-" Kakashi groaned, burying his head into his shoulder. "I should be sorry! I couldn't protect Sasuke-"
Kakashi started whimpering and Obito's head just went blank.
Kami how was Kakashi still functioning with all these emotions running rampant? He could feel it through the bond, and now Kakashi was upset because Obito was apologising. How the hell was Obito supposed to calm him down?
"Shhh." Obito swayed him gently, trying anything he could to sooth Kakashi. "You've done well. Sasuke's safe. You're alright."
Kakashi hiccuped, sniffling, and Obito's brain was melting. Kakashi was always so composed. Child Kakashi would be freaking out at his adult self right now. Kakashi and emotions just didn't mix. Kakashi rarely dealt with them.
This was kinda terrifying.
"This is frustrating!" Kakashi suddenly snapped, wiping the tears building up in his eyes. "I'm all over the place-"
"As you said, you're growing a baby," Obito carefully reminded.
"Growing a baby shouldn't be allowed to be this hard." Kakashi yawned and finally settled down against him. "I'm really tired..."
"I know." Obito brushed his hair back. "You've done well. Just shut your eyes for a little bit, alright?"
Kakashi buried his head in the crook of his neck and finally settled down for a nap. Obito shifted them to lie down, making sure Kakashi lay on him and not the cold ground, and watched.
.::.
Hinata smiled. "Y-You did amazing, Shino."
Shino climbed the stairs, coming straight back over to their side. Hinata noticed Shikamaru studying Shino, along with Neji. Although Neji looked surprised. Hinata quickly looked away, not wanting to catch his gaze. Instead she did her best to meet Shino's eyes.
"Yeah, way to go, Shino!" Kiba cheered.
"Just see that you two do the same," Shino scoffed.
Hinata nodded. "I-I'll try my best..."
.::.
Kiba scowled. Shino wasn't the team leader. It was Kiba! Bossing them about, especially in front of Hinata. Shino knew that Kiba had been trying to impress Hinata for ages. Kiba huffed but while the pair were distracted with the next pair of fighters he made his way over towards Kurenai sensei.
"Hey, Kurenai sensei," he whispered. "Are those lilies still doing okay?"
Kurenai sensei nodded. "They are. When will you give them to Hinata?"
Kiba flushed. "Um, well, I was thinking after we both won our matches? Y'know, might be a good congratulations present, or a nice way to start bonding?"
Kurenai sensei smiled warmly. "I think that would be a nice idea. You should take her out for tea afterwards, or maybe before, and give her the flowers then."
Kiba grinned. "Yeah. That could work. Thanks, sensei!"
"Giving him tips?" Shino asked, glancing at them.
"Not really." Kurenai ruffled Kiba's hair. "He'll do fine."
"Um... A-Are there any tips for me?" Hinata asked shyly.
Kiba went over to her side, patting her shoulder. "Just do your best, Hinata. Although if you get any of the scary ones don't hesitate to call it."
"Yeah, like that Gaara guy." Shino frowned. "You can't go up against him, Hinata."
"Or Neji." Kiba growled lowly, eyeing the Hyuga. "Pretty boy's been glaring at you way too much for my liking."
"I doubt you'd be able to stop him," Shino said.
"I'd bloody well try!" Kiba snapped.
Hinata put up her hands, scent growing anxious. "There really is no need to!"
Kiba scowled. "I'd do it for you."
Hinata startled. "Y-You would?"
"Always." Kiba grinned.
"And get your ass kicked for it."
Kiba twitched. "Shut up, Shino."
"Th-Thank you..." Hinata whispered softly.
Kiba beamed, and his Alpha pup almost had a meltdown when Hinata's arm brushed his. Yes! He did it! He actually did it, he had gotten Hinata's attention and affection all at the same time. He couldn't help but smile at Kurenai sensei who nodded back, smiling just as warmly.
"Kiba, you're purring loudly," Shino said.
Of course he had to ruin the moment. The bastard. But hearing Hinata's giggle was worth it.