KG: Okay, before we get into the nonsense. I would like to deeply apologize to your guys for the wait. I admit that I let this get away from me with a job search, World, preseason and…some other things. Rest assured, I WILL finish this story no matter how long it takes. Well, let's hope it doesn't do that. Now then…
KG: WOOOOOOO! SAMSUNG! TAKE THAT SKT! GET THE FUCK OFF OUR SCREEN! HAIL THE NEW KINGS!
Wifey: That was almost two months ago.
KG: Oh no you don't you Faker groupie! I win this time! I NEVER DOUBTED THEM! I NEVER DOUBTED THEM!
Wifey: You look so sad right now.
KG: Not as sad as Faker! HA!
Wifey:…
KG: ALSO woo Thanksgiving was awesome! Damn you can cook! Woo preseason! Fuck carry supports!
Wifey: I think you need to go back to sleep.
KG: But it's Christmas! Never!
Wifey: Just write, idiot.
KG: But I have to play Doki Doki Literature Club!
Wifey:…your funeral.
KG: YEAH…wait, what?
Music of the Week: Let It Go by Jonathan Young
Quote: "You build on failure. You use it as a stepping stone. Close the door on the past. You don't try to forget the mistakes, but you don't dwell on it. You don't let it have any of your energy, or any of your time, or any of your space." By Johnny Cash.
A team of Inuzuka littered the Uzumaki compound. The sounds of canines barking and scampering through the land were abundant. There was also a small team of Hyuuga, Aburame and even some other expert trackers that didn't come from the clans. Each one of them checked around the compound for any evidence that they could find. On the outside of the Uzumaki Compound, everyone was awake allowing Konoha to conduct their searches. Risa, Guren, and Fuuka had decided to aid in the investigation.
Naruto stood by Yura and Yuri. Both girls seemed a tad shaken by the events that Naruto had spoken about with them. It only made them thank the Shinigami even more for his eternal protection. Naruto definitely told them that it was thanks to Shin that they hadn't been harmed, but Naruto disclosed nothing about the meeting he and his mother had gone to. It was best not to overload them with that knowledge for right now. Still, the fact that they were right next to him made Naruto happy enough.
"Odd that they were able to pass through an Uzumaki barrier. It's not something the average or even the above average shinobi is capable of. Hell, even when the Uzumaki were a more established power, even Kage-level shinobi had at least some measure of difficulty against Fūinjutsu. I have to say I feel stumped here. First time in a while, Kuromaru's been stumped," Tsume said. She moved forward and took a spot next to Tsunade and Kushina.
Tsunade frowned and folded her arms underneath her ample bosom. Kushina was not pleased with this recent news. Tsume's words weren't an exaggeration. It was hard to break Uzumaki fūinjutsu wasn't an easy thing to defeat. Granted, it wasn't impossible, but it was very…uncommon to do so. The fact that Kushina saw these people not only get into the compound but also stand so close to Yuri and Yura that they could nearly kill them was not something that Kushina was pleased about. After all, Kushina had made that security matrix along with her son. Were they getting too content? Kushina wondered if that was the case.
"We haven't found anything either. No chakra residue, no emitters of chakra, and no decay in the environment's natural chakra field. Whoever they claim they saw really had to have done an above expert job. But for Jashinists to do this. I'm sorry to say that I find it hard to believe. It just doesn't fit their profile if we base them off former Akatsuki member, Hidan. He wasn't one to hide or sneak from his enemies. He always tortured them before killing them," Hizashi said, coming from his part of the search.
"That hardly means no one was here. There are many ways to erase the chakra residue from the landscape and we've seen firsthand that apparently the fundamentals of the shinobi world are being unraveled since there are now humans without chakra in their systems. I don't think I need to explain the implications that would have against a clan like the Hyuuga," Tsunade said. Hizashi didn't dean a response, though he was considerably less pleased than he was a moment ago.
It took about a whole hour for all of the shinobi in the vicinity to reconvene. Naruto was not pleased to learn that each person had said pretty much the same thing. They said that there was essentially no trace of the intruders and all attempts would have to be halted for another time. Naruto would have liked to speak more on the issue, but he stayed his tongue, something that surprised him actually. Naruto had to remember they weren't dealing with an average enemy anymore. Naruto was dealing with gods and if the gods didn't want someone found then one wouldn't find them unless another intervened. Naruto was beginning to learn that. Though, that didn't mean he had to like it.
Tsunade pinched the bridge of her nose before she called Naruto and Kushina over. Looks of displeasure marred their faces and Tsunade couldn't exactly blame them. The entire day had been spent going around in circles. It was one lead turned into false assumption. There was the case of someone believing that they had something concrete before being brought to the ground of reality based on Kushina's knowledge of the sealing arts. This, in turn, led to a couple of irrational arguments. However, those arguments never lasted very long under the weight of Naruto's aura in defense of his mother, soon-to-be-wife.
Tsunade noticed that none of this was helping anyone which is why she decided to release everyone from their duties. She could also tell that Naruto, in particular, was having a rough time with these recent developments. Tsunade wasn't pleased either. As much as she didn't interact with them as she probably should have, Tsunade was still at least part-Uzumaki. Having her ancestors' family targeted wasn't making her a happy Hokage. That, plus the fact that these murderous bastards were in her village wasn't doing well for her mood as well.
"So, what do you plan to do now?" Tsunade asked. She wondered if she even needed to. The look in Naruto's eyes told her what he wanted to do, but, strange as it was perhaps Kushina was right for Naruto, the brat was thinking with more than just his gut this time. He really was turning into a splendid shinobi. Though Tsunade, honestly, wished he would come to his senses with this whole…blatant incest thing. Yet, Tsunade wouldn't go into her own thoughts on the matter.
"Well, the primary thing is Yuri-chan and Yura-chan's safety. I'm glad they're alright. I didn't see any injuries either. So that's good. Still, I'm going to take a look at that sealing matrix around the compound. Kushina, can you go see Hiashi? I wanted to quickly ask his opinion on this. I could have asked either Neji or Hizashi, but Hiashi's been a good friend and I'd like to continue that. If you can see him, then that would be awesome," Naruto said.
Kushina had no problems with this. She took a glance at Yuri and Yura for a moment. "Yes, I could see how Hiashi is doing. It gives me a moment to check on Hinako as well. Though, we still need to train Yuri. The hosting for the Chunin exams in Sunagakure is in under two weeks. We have to make the travel plans as well as finish Yuri's training," Kushina said.
Naruto agreed with that as well. He really wanted to see what Yuri had done which impressed the Sanbi so much. It sounded very amazing which moved Naruto's heart every time he learned that it had been for his sake that she strove so hard. "Sorry, but there is actually a correction I need to make to you both," Tsunade said. This got Naruto and Kushina to turn around to the Hokage.
"Unfortunately, there has been a decision regarding political affairs and a strict council that I cannot go into has decided that Iwagakure will be the host for this year's chunin exam," Tsunade said. As expected, she found looks of skepticism written on their faces.
"Why?" Kushina asked. If one could understand the deep laying of her words, anyone could have seen the distrust in her voice. Perhaps it was reasonable, Kushina did not have a current like for Iwagakure. It was hardly in her mind that she hated them too. Kushina had a relative neutrality for Iwagakure. She did not hate them and truly bore them no real ill will, but unless Naruto asked her otherwise she wouldn't go out risking her neck if their village burned to the ground.
"That remains to be seen actually. I have some investigations going on into the matter, but nothing concrete. There are only rumors that the son of a family member in the Earth Daimyo's court married a noblewoman from Sunagakure. There isn't much more than that, but people are filling in those details. I know Gaara hasn't been happy about it, but there isn't a lot we can do except go with the flow." Tsunade said.
Naruto and Kushina frowned, but Naruto hoped that this wasn't anything too unusual. He realized that this was indeed wishful thinking, but that's what he hoped for. Forgive Naruto if he wasn't in the mood for another fight like the one he had about a week or two ago. Truth be told, he still felt sore from that time.
"Speaking of that, I want you both to be available at the end of the week. Now, I have to get back to the office. Oh, and Naruto, how…is Shizune doing?" Tsunade asked. Naruto blinked for a moment before he released a sigh.
"She has some trouble sleeping and I think about sending her to Ino's dad or someone else, but I also noticed that she's been spending a lot of time with Ebisu. Actually, what's going to happen to Konohamaru, Moegi, and Udon? I haven't gotten the chance to see any of them," Naruto said. He watched Tsunade's face harden if only for a moment. She then rubbed one of her shoulders.
"I told Konohamaru that Ebisu…had some issues in his teaching style so they would be given a new instructor. The brat really takes after you. It took like a half hour of shouting and knocking him on the damn head to stop shouting at me. I set them up with Genma for the time being. He didn't like it, but I don't have a whole lot of options. It'll at least do for a month or two. Also, I would like you to tell Fuka to come to my office before the end of the day," Tsunade said. She then began to walk away from the Uzumaki compound.
Once Tsunade was out of sight, Naruto took Kushina's hands. He slowly placed kisses on each one of his mother's fingers. Kushina sighed in bliss. "What's wrong?" Naruto asked. Kushina bit her lip for a moment before she released a frustrated groan. She then brushed a hand through her lovely hair. Kushina then gave her son a chaste kiss on his lips.
"I don't like this. It's too much of a coincidence. What would Iwagakure benefit from in hosting the Chunin Exams in place of Sunagakure? Perhaps this is my deep-seeded distrust for the nation merely rearing its ugly head, dattebane. I just hope that old bastard isn't up to his tricks again. Alright, I'll be going. I'll be back soon," Kushina said. What quickly followed was a heavy gasp from her when Naruto smacked her ass.
"I'll be waiting, dearest mom!" Naruto said. Kushina sent him what he assumed to be a challenging look. Oh trust Kushina, Naruto was more than willing to finish what he started. She just had to name the time and the place. Suddenly, Kushina turned around and stood before Naruto. She then, without statement or question, grabbed his cock in her hands through his pants.
"You such a dirty boy, Naruto! Have you no respect for your mother?" Kushina asked. She watched Naruto inhale the air through his nostrils with his eyes tightly closed. Kushina smiled, but she stopped her ministrations. Naruto released a small breath of lust. He couldn't help giving his mother a smile. Kushina returned his smile before she winked and walked off.
Naruto turned around and noticed Yuri and Yura staring at him. Yura's blush filled her face while Yuri held an equally lustful smile, but as much as Naruto wanted it, he still had to remember their vows as Uzumaki in their culture's marriage ritual. No sex until after the wedding. Naruto wanted to do anything, but that wouldn't be happening. "Onii-sama, why do you torture yourself like that?" Yura asked. Naruto smirked.
"Like what? I'm fine, Yura-chan. Come on, Yuri-chan, we're going to blow off some steam, dattebayo! And before you ask, it's training!" Naruto said when he saw the look of joy, or lust, on her face. Yuri slowly picked herself up and dusted some of the dirt off her clothes. She flipped a finger at Naruto's neck and slowly ran a finger over his skin. Naruto released a steady breath for a response.
"Oh, you can train me anytime you like, Nii-chan. I can handle the pain," Yuri said before she started walking over to the training grounds, a slight sway in her hips. It drove Naruto so wild. Naruto then quickly kissed Yura on the lips and ran off to go and train Yuri. This left Yura as the only one in the fields of the compound for a moment.
Yura sighed and picked herself up. As she watched Naruto rush off to the training grounds with her sister, Yura couldn't help wondering just what Naruto found attractive in her anyway. She wasn't fiery like Kushina tended to be. She wasn't free-spirited like her sister tended to be and she wasn't even as active in her shinobi career as everyone else in the house. Honestly, Yura wondered if it was better she wasn't with Naruto. It would do well for him in the long run. With another reserved sigh, Yura walked back into the house and closed the door behind her.
-x-
Onoki frowned as he looked the stack of papers in front of him. "You're sure this is a good idea? I had to pull a lot of leeway for that stunt. Why must I host these exams?" Onoki asked. Behind him, looking out the window, the Regent glanced down at Iwagakure. Behind his mask, his eyes watched the citizens in their deluded peace. Such fleeting flowers of insolence. The Regent remembered when he used to be like these people. That was such a worthless time. Yet, he supposed that it was times like this that these people treasured most because soon there would be naught but despair, but…that was only if the blanket of security which was the Five Great Nations were done away with and the first to fall would be Konoha. It had to be.
"Have no fear, Tsuchikage, we all have our role to play in the preservation of the world. Your chunin exams are just one step in a grander scheme. If you would like to see your village prosper during these times of utter ruin then I would suggest that we attempt to prepare for the matters at hand. However, if you would define your need for a reason then, we can merely call it…enticement. Iwagakure was the first nation to have the other four all compete in the same stage. Such a fruitful competition if I do so recall." The Regent said.
Onoki frowned at these words, but the Tsuchikage didn't say anything. Truth be told, Onoki did not believe all of this guy's story, but the person who Onoki saw behind that mask made him question the direction of shinobi history. Yet, for him to be here meant that something awful was going to come to the world. "If you have this power that you claim then why do you not rid yourself of Konoha on your own? I doubt after the experiences you have spoken of that you would hold an attachment to the village." Onoki said.
The Regent slowly smiled to himself. "Hmmm, an interesting question. Perhaps it would be best to say...prophecies and peace…are truly in the eye of the beholder," The Regent said. Onoki gave a pause to the man's voice. He almost sounded very melancholy at the moment. Yet, Onoki could see no facial expression from the man's mask.
"You have lost people to Konoha?" Onoki asked. The Regent chuckled. He then turned around. "Do not worry yourself so about my endeavors and my past, Tsuchikage-dono. Merely rest assured that we all have and will lose much if we do not complete our objective. However, yes, I have lost much to Konoha. More than most actually. Tell me Tsuchikage-dono, what do you think define morals?" The Regent asked.
Onoki blinked at the odd question, but he closed his eyes for a moment to think on the subject. "Most would define morals as the rules and laws which seek to govern human instinct vs the human consciousness of what is right or wrong in the sight of one or more individuals. They are lessons which foretell of the consequences that befall negative actions and benefit positive response," Onoki said. He was sure he didn't have to be so…technical about it, but the masked man asked after all.
"Hehe, yes, I do suppose that is true. But, if that is so true then where must morals stand on killing? The Five Nations and all the minor nations have committed great atrocities and there is no doubt that such a history shall continue. If morals dictate what is right or wrong…then what corrects the morals?" The Regent asked.
Onoki placed his chin on his palms. He did not see where this question was going. "I would naturally assume that humanity does," Onoki said. If morals were within the eye of the beholder then it would have had to come after the early settlers of human society had decided on these things. Honestly, it gave Onoki a headache to think about, but that was as Onoki imagined it. He didn't like sending out his people to kill, but it was a necessary evil for the peace of Iwagakure.
"Yet, morals are supposed to guide the human conscious. How can something you have made govern you conscious if it was you who determined what it maintained? Does the sun tell itself that it is wrong to be too hot for some people enough to burn their skin? Does the moon hold knowledge that its pull affects the waves which may end a sailor's life at any fleeting moment?" The Regent asked.
Onoki released a sigh. "The moon and sun are not sentient beings. Therefore, your claim leaves much to be desired," Onoki remarked. The masked individual behind him didn't t answer, and Onoki didn't know it, but the Regent had a small knowing smile on his face. He fingered the handle of his blade, Karura.
"Regardless, morals deemed by men…are nothing more than the weak attempting to rein in what they fear too much to control. Now then, Tsuchikage-dono, I have other business to attend to. I bid you a farewell," The Regent said.
Onoki turned around in surprise, but he noticed that the man was already gone. Onoki took a chill breath and then leaned back in his chair. He wondered if this was really a good idea, but he could not have turned back now. Well, he could, but he didn't see a need to just yet. Iwagakure was still dealing with criminals, but Onoki was sure he could somehow make a benefit out of all of this chaos. If, and Onoki meant a very fine 'if', the Regent was telling the truth about what would happen and…if the whole world would truly be at war…then, Onoki was going to make sure that Iwagakure was a nation still standing.
A knock on his door surprise Onoki before he ushered the person to come in. "Yo, Jiji, you got some people from the Daimyo's court here to see you. Something about a plan or something to do with Konoha," his granddaughter, Kurotsuchi, had come up and said.
Onoki…definitely didn't want to hear that. Sheesh, those guys in the council sure worked fast. Onoki wasn't expecting this for at least a couple of days from now or even a few days before the Chunin Exams. This was much faster than he had anticipated. Still, that was well and good. At the very least he could get the needless pleasantries out of the way now rather than later. "Tell them, I'll be right down," Onoki said. Today was a very odd day.
-x-
"Mmm, I can't recall the feeling. I mean, I know I was mad. I was very mad, but…I don't know exactly what other emotions I was feeling. I guess…sadness? But, I don't feel that right now." Yuri said. Naruto rubbed the back of his head. So, it wasn't going to be as easy as he had wanted. Granted he had been expecting that. Still, it wasn't like Naruto was unfamiliar with dealing with his mental state. He still recalled the times when he had been trying to access Kurama's chakra. Getting angry was one thing, but getting angry enough to wish for someone's death was another.
"Hmmm, so what are you feeling right now?" Naruto asked. Yuri quickly regained a smile that clearly warned Naruto that he more than likely shouldn't have asked. He raised an eyebrow when the redhead walked up to him.
"Well, I am feeling horny right now," Yuri commented. To Naruto's credit, the blush on his face wasn't as massive as it probably should have been. The young blonde watched his cousin swirl her little fingers over his shirt. She then sensually licked her lips. Yet, Naruto knew what she was doing and he hated that it was so effective. Even more, he wondered if Uzumaki marriage was so…so…what was the term the perv used for it? Cockblocking? Something like that?
"Enough, you! We gotta be serious here dattebayo!" Naruto said. Yuri gave him a pleasant smile before she nodded. Yuri took a step back for a moment and thought it over. She grumbled and then breathed a lasting sigh. She closed her eyes. Naruto watched her and her lovely hair blow through the warm winds of their nations.
"I was angry. No, maybe that's the wrong word. I…I hated everything. I…wanted to destroy everything. I hated how she mocked you. I hated how she trapped Sasame-san and Amaru-san down there along with perhaps thousands of others. I hated that…I could do nothing, but watch as Shizune-san and Ero-ojichan were…were killed right in front of me. I hated that I was weak. Yet, most of all, I…hated that…she criticized how much I loved…love you. I wanted to shut her up. I wanted to pay her back! I wanted her to feel what I felt! I want…I wanted…,"
Naruto watched and he slowly began to feel what the Sanbi had been talking about. He could feel her power rising. This was oddly similar to his own power, yet it was different in a very…overwhelming manner. Naruto could even see the beginnings of silver hair combining with her own red hair. She really looked beautiful like that.
"I…wanted to feel like I deserved you. I wanted to feel like I wasn't just someone lovesick little girl chasing after some stupid fantasy. I…I wanted to prove to her that my love for you was real, dattebayen! When you made love to me that night, it felt like I was on top of the whole world. Being with you has been one of the greatest joys of my whole life. I…I would like nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you, maybe until you and I grow old or even if we stayed young forever until the end of time if this who Shinigami thing continues, but…none of that would matter to me because…I would have you in my heart," Yuri replied.
Before Naruto could even respond, Yuri gasped as a blast of power surged through her. She panted for a moment and fell to her knees. "Yuri, are you okay?" Naruto asked. He slowly helped her up while Yuri gave another soft pant. That…that was almost it. She remembered that feeling from before. She…she almost had it.
"Nii-chan, that was it! I'm sure that was it! I was so close! I think I can…Mmmmm," Yuri was surprised when Naruto grabbed her lovely face and pulled her lips to kiss his own. Yuri inhaled his manly scent and the two slowly parted away. Yuri's chest huffed in earnest and fervor. She looked into her lover's fantastic eyes when he settled them on her.
"No, Yuri-chan. I'm the one who needs to deserve you. You've been so good to me. You, Kaa-chan, and Yura-chan. I love the three of you so much that I couldn't take it if someone caused you pain. Never in all my life did I think I would have the three of you with me. I'm going to make sure to keep you all happy. I promise," Naruto remarked. Yuri gave her own smile and gently kissed Naruto's cheek.
Naruto swiftly pulled them both up and rolled his arms. "Now then, let's get back to it. Whether you know it or not, this is training for me too. I think we'll be leaving for Iwagakure at the end of the week. I want them to get blow away by your Yuri-chan," Naruto said. Now, with that having been said to her. Yuri wasn't one to disappoint.
"Well, why don't you show me how you do it? Maybe that'll give me a better feel for what I need to do," Yuri commented. Naruto supposed that wasn't a bad idea. Truth be told, he had wanted to do this ever since he had woken up back in the Land of Eddies. Perhaps it was because he had been used to this energy, but Naruto did feel off not being connected to the spiritual energy in the world. Well, it wasn't like he could ever be truly disconnected from it, but his mother had slowed the pace of his intake of the Honshou. It was probably time for Naruto to set his paces again.
"Hmmm, you got a point, Yuri-chan. Alright, I'll give it a shot," Naruto said. Granted he still hadn't mastered this new…form that the Shinigami was trying to teach him. His mother had seemed to take to the form rather quickly, but it appeared that she hadn't been any closer than he had. Naruto supposed this was as good a time as any.
Taking a couple of steps back, Naruto took a small breath. "I suppose if I had to give it a feeling then I would call it…drowning. I feel like I'm drowning in an ocean of energy. I try not to let it overwhelm me, but I know if I make a mistake then it will. It's like trying to swim in a massive body of water, dattebayo. However, it's also like a fear of the unknown. I guess…try and feel like your moving through the bottom of the ocean. Trying to keep your breath at the very bottom while feeling the world around you…," Yuri gasped when she felt the aura which surrounded Naruto.
"Respect the danger, I guess, and understand my own weaknesses…" She watched his hair lose its blonde color and it was slowly swallowed by a bright silver radiance. His clothes vanished away and Yuri suddenly felt a strange calmness seep into her body. Her eyes gazed at his form. Naruto…by his features wasn't what women would call a…beautiful man. No, Naruto had a more…rugged feel to him. If girls though a guy looked cute, then Naruto was perhaps just handsome.
As far as Yuri was concerned, she could see why Sasuke could be considered attractive to the girls in Konoha. He was from a prestigious clan, he was the best in the academy which fed the female-fantasy of the perfect boy. Then there was the murder of his clan. He was like a fallen angel, brought down to the mortal world. He was probably the type of boy that, though he absolutely loathed it, had the face and body that…you just naturally wanted to take care of him. He was like the typical tragic yaoi Seme from one of her favorite novels. So Yuri could see that, odd as it was.
However, Naruto, her Naruto, had that rough exterior. He had the wild look about him. Naruto wasn't someone you could describe as cute. He was more like…the one who could show a girl the wilder adventures which happened around the village. He was the type that was forbidden. A mystery of wonder and excitement and danger. For Yuri, that…was so much more attractive to her. The fact that he was also her cousin…her family lit a fire in her body. Naruto was an uncontrollable bundle of male hormones which excited Yuri to no end.
"And let it fill you up," Now…Now…he looked stunning. Yuri watched the wonderful cape of pure white energy surrounding him. The way it glided through the air from his own power was a marvel to her eyes. He…was gorgeous. Neither cute nor handsome could become clever adjectives to describe him. Wait, what was an adjective? Anyway, Yuri really wished he were not in the marriage ceremony at the moment. She would have had him take her right here they stood.
His hair was no longer spiky nor was it short anymore. It…was so long. It reached at least down to his backside. His hair was so beautiful. It gained the pure radiance of life itself. Yet, Yuri could also see that this life and this radiance had a price. The trees and all the green around her started to fade away. Gone were their luscious green colors. Yuri slowly began to understand that Naruto used the life of the earth to sustain this form. Perhaps that was why he never used it very much. The young Uzumaki woman wondered if this was a lesson. Life…was so precious when it stood to be lost.
Then, there were his eyes. Oh, boy god his eyes captured her with their silver look. It was like she was looking into the pureness of the moon which beamed in the skies at night. Yuri…would look like that? Would she look like that vision of radiance and divinity? "…And then you accept that if you can use the life from around you to a better purpose…then you understand your circumstances," Naruto finished looking at him. Yuri was unable to speak so Naruto spoke for her. His long hair and his white cape blew in the strength of the winds.
"What's wrong? I don't look that different, do I? You know, you have a better reaction that Kaa-chan when she first saw this form. Kushina says it's like I dyed my hair, but you look like I just got a makeover," Naruto laughed and Yuri could feel aura even escape his vocals.
"Nii-chan, have you seen yourself lately?! You…you're gorgeous!" Yuri replied. Now Naruto had been called a lot of things in regards to his appearance, most of them unfriendly things, but no one had EVER called him gorgeous. Naruto couldn't have looked that different. Naruto turned around. Each step he took sapped the life out of the earth.
Naruto moved to a pond and he looked at his reflection. "What the hell? Why do I have all this hair?!" Naruto asked. Yuri didn't know how her blonde lover could not have known about that. He seemed like he didn't even recognize himself. She watched Naruto touch his face.
"Yo Kurama, are you seeing this? I've never had this before. What's happening to me?" Naruto asked out loud. The Nine-tailed Fox had, indeed, been seeing what Naruto was seeing. It had looked oddly similar to the transformation that had happened to him in the battle against the leader of the Akatsuki. Yet, it…felt very different. One reason that it felt different was that the formerly red, now white, fox's fur wasn't accustomed to glowing this brightly.
"Yeah, I'm seeing it. You were probably drunk on the adrenaline of the moment, but I remember this form from your time against Pain. You most likely don't remember it from then, but you do seem a bit different. I can't explain why though," Kyuubi said. Naruto continued to look himself over. He then turned back to Yuri. Naruto wasn't sure how to reply to this, so he just settled for giving her a shaky smile.
"Well, I guess it's something like this," Naruto replied. Yuri just slowly nodded. She wasn't sure she could do…that, but she was more than willing to give it a shot. She turned around and began to walk back to the training area. The silver-haired blonde watched her go with a small smile on his face that…slowly disappeared. The warmth in Naruto's eyes vanished without a trace. Naruto suddenly flexed his hands and a cruel smile appeared on his lips.
Slowly, the mask returned. The white mask which had covered half his face during his time in dealing with Mōryō. His once silver eyes now glowed with a black red thickness. The jagged teeth of the mask along with its unwelcoming grin and grueling eyes stared at its reflection in the pond. Naruto raised his hand and dipped it into the water. Naruto offered a crooked smile.
Instantly, the water lost its vibrant blue color. In fact, the once pure puddle which contained life for water creatures turned black. Corpses among corpses of water life filled the pond. Fish, leaves, frogs, and even some select insects rose from the water, dead. The water then quickly started to spin and twist. It was angry. Massive waves crashed on the shore of where he stood. "Suffer. Fester. Bring despair to the end of the realms. Keep the hidden paths of the gods unlocked. Mortal flesh digressing corruption. Bring Despair. Kurai Shin'en (Dark Abyss)," Naruto muttered.
Within his realm, the Shinigami stiffened and he gazed into the direction that Naruto was in. So, Naruto had acquired enough of the Earth's spiritual essence that this would happen. True, the Shinigami had gambled on this happening when he had blessed his young, blond summoner with opening the first door of his celestial inhibitors. The god of death had been planning to tell the blonde about them much later, but if this was happening then sooner was going to have to be the alternative.
The celestial inhibitors were within every living thing on the planet. However, most, if not all, mortals were unaware of it. These inhibitors were what kept locked because mortals couldn't handle the intake of spiritual power. And, the reason most mortals didn't know about them was that…it took one of the four original gods to open them. Amaterasu had opened the most gates for humans, being three humans. Tsukuyomi had only done two, and Susanoo had done one. Now, they could add the Shinigami to their list.
Most mortals like to believe that their bodies are specially designed that they can handle the strain, but Shin doubted that even a quarter of the world's population actually could do that. For some of these people, these inhibitors were at most…loosened. Which was why mortals claimed to see spirits, enter the realm of the dead, or speak with apparitions. It was all due to the celestial inhibitors and Shin had unlocked the first of ten doors for Naruto.
Now, don't mistake Shin. Naruto was indeed his summoner and he could speak with spirits anyway, but by opening, this inhibitor…he had easily given Naruto access to the widest range of capabilities which limited him as a mortal before. One would probably ask what the Shinigami was trying to achieve by doing this. It was actually simple, the Shinigami wanted to achieve…interesting things.
How odd though, the Shinigami was sure that Naruto shouldn't have had so much Honshou that this was an occurrence. Unless…his body was naturally attuned to the spiritual realm already. If that was the case then dare he believe that Naruto had been absorbing double, no triple the amount of what the average human would absorb from the earth? For once, Shin shuddered at the thought if the boy's valve released the rest of his locked power. Now that…would be very amusing.
Still, he could feel his summoner's soul in pain and that couldn't stand.
The souls of each life which had been destroyed in the forsaken pond screeched with rage, wrath, and hatred. In his hands, Naruto licked his lips before he devoured them, cries and all. The pond quickly exploded and the water splashed on Naruto's face. Yuri quickly came running. "Nii-chan, are you okay?" Yuri asked.
Naruto panted as he opened his eyes. "Yuri? What happened? What was I doing?" Naruto asked, the mask clear from his face. Naruto shook his head while Yuri slowly helped him to his feet. His aura slowly began to calm him for a moment. Once he was safely standing, Yuri offered him a small smile.
"Looks like all that power isn't too good for you," she remarked. Naruto turned to her for a moment and he offered a rather nervous laugh. He settled for agreeing with her, though he wasn't as sure as he probably wanted it to look like. "Anyway, let's get back to me trying that. I bet I'll knock them all dead when I show them what I can do!" Yuri encouraged. She walked off, apparently happy at the thought of training again now that Naruto had showcased his latest form.
Naruto watched her go before he turned back to the pond. The corpses of marine life which once filled the blue water startled him. What happened to them? Naruto didn't recall seeing this before. It was like a …a wave of death apart from what he had experienced dealing with had swept over the pond. The young jinchuuriki…cautiously stepped away from the pond. He hoped some training with Yuri would get his mind off his ordeal. Naruto had no way of knowing how twisted the pupils in his eyes looked for a moment.
-x-
"He's an idiot! Of all the stupid things he could have done, this is by far the stupidest thing I have ever seen him do! He's never going to be Hokage if he goes through with this. The Hokage is a public figure! Everyone's going to hate him! Who's going to respect someone who has such a blatant disregard for his own morals! He's going to become a pariah!" Sakura exclaimed.
Koharu watched the young medic walk circles in her office structure. Normally, Koharu wouldn't tolerate blatant loitering, especially in her own office. Well, Koharu was developing something of a soft spot for the lone female of the former Team Seven. Plus, it wasn't like Koharu couldn't see what Sakura was saying. Still, she didn't think she needed to tell the young girl how unlikely it would be that boy would ever become Hokage.
"I do agree with you, Sakura-san. It is a very unorthodox situation, however, there are hardly laws within the village to deter such a relationship, despicable as it is. I do believe that we must make Naruto-san's future secure. As his friend, I know you would like this as well. We can make him come to his senses and then he will be able to rebuild his reputation. Despite what you might think, his reputation has been steadily rising. The Uzumaki clan have significant political, financial, and even some economic clout. That alone helps them immensely," Koharu said.
Sakura slowly agreed. She knew this as well. No one could make fun of Naruto anymore. Well, it's not like he hung out with the rest of them for too much time anyway. Sometimes, everyone was lucky if they even saw him once a month. If anything she had heard that he spent most of his time either with his family or with his new team. Something Sakura didn't actually like. Why was it that she was the only one not apart of the team? Just because she didn't know how to use a sword?
"How do we handle that? I mean, I agree. I think that idiot will come to his senses some time down the line, but for now, he won't and he can be as thick-headed as an Akimichi about food. What do you have in mind Koharu-sama?" Sakura asked. She turned around and gave a small apology for her unorderly behavior in Koharu's office, however the elderly councilwoman paid it no mind.
"I do believe it to be a rather simple matter, Sakura-san. In order to secure Naruto-san's future as a potential Hokage candidate then I do believe we can make use of a certain event that will be going on near the end of the month," Koharu answered.
Sakura couldn't hide her relief at these words. She just hoped that Naruto would see reason. Hopefully, the rest of his family would follow as well. Then this foolishness could stop once and for all. "Though, I'm surprised Koharu-sama. I don't mean to make light of your good intentions, but with how you claimed the council meeting had gone the last time, I figured you wouldn't like Naruto anymore," Sakura questioned.
Sakura had to admit that the smile Koharu gave made a shiver run through her spine. There was no hatred, happiness, or even neutrality in that smile. Sakura just…saw a very unnerving smile. "Sakura, you will learn growing up that…politics have a way of shifting who and what you like. Now then, I will be sure to keep you updated on events. For now, you have duties back at the hospital. Do our soldiers proud and look after them," Koharu said.
"Hai, I will see you then, Koharu-sama," Sakura said. She turned around and walked out of Koharu's office. Koharu merely gave a small wave, but…her eyes quickly showcased a sinister look. Sigh, sometimes Koharu both appreciated and despised the naiveté of the growing kunoichi. It didn't take a very bright person to manipulate them. All it took was just someone who could see the comings and goings of political pull. And, if Koharu got some payback during the actions then that was all the better. However, right now, she would have to go see Homura about some other issues. Then she would send her proposal to the Hokage. If that novice had any such experience in dealing with the village's safety then naturally Koharu's proposal would be the better option. But for now, Koharu was willing to play it out.
-x-
"Hmmm, well I don't know what help I can provide. I'm glad no harm has befallen Yuri-san and Yura-san. I understand that Naruto has come to greatly care for them. Still, if he believes that I can be of some assistance then I will help as soon as I am able. Aside from this, could you please inform Naruto that the Hyuuga would like to make another purchase of Uzumaki ink?" Hiashi asked from his sitting place on the map.
Kushina chuckled, which drew Hiashi's confusion for a moment. "Sorry, I didn't mean the laugh. You don't have to buy ink from us, Hiashi. We're family after all. We each signed the Blood Pact. Yukimaru-kun and Hanabi-san are equally comfortable with each other, which has always been a bonus to that effect. I know Naruto wouldn't be able to forgive himself if he charged you. Merely send someone over to collect it. We'll have what you need," Kushina returned. Hiashi offered a pleasant smile.
"I see, that is very gracious of you. Well, I do recommend the clan stop by. If I do say so myself, but the Hyuuga host a very well-known acupuncture section that has been highly regarded by many a people," Hiashi said. That definitely sounded like a good idea to Kushina. She was sure that her family and some of their family would take Hiashi up on his generous offer.
Kushina found her gaze turning outside. She watched a couple of Side Branch Hyuuga conversing comfortably with Main Branch Hyuuga. Given that Kushina had seen the, she admitted, despicable disregard for family ties the Hyuuga had when she was…still alive previously, this was a welcome change to her eyes. Children practiced together under Hyuuga elders and teachers. Side Branch members happily tended to the gardens around the compound, that Kushina could see, and for once, no once the animosity between both branches had dwindled. Kushina wasn't so hopeful as to believe that this animosity was completely gone, but it was a vast improvement.
Hiashi followed her eyes for a moment and his gaze softened over his clan. "I owe a great deal of debt to Naruto-san. Hizashi has been a great council in advocation for the Side Branch. I try to make things up to him on a day by day period. When he had told me that only in death could he be free of our mark, I had not the will to argue with him. Though, the Byakugan must be protected, as it is a coveted dojutsu, for my brother to claim that death would be better than living with his own family….I couldn't take the shame with Neji."
Hiashi paused for a moment. He collected in Kushina's reaction. She didn't have much to give. Her face was a solid expression of neutrality. She only watched Hiashi collect himself. "I, in my power, cannot erase the seal which binds them. I am sorry Kushina, but clan traditions run very strongly. I'm sure you can attest to this. However, I have been making sure that a family remembers what it must fight for. It was might for each of its members. I have come to understand that very well. I knew this when I was blessed to have Hinako return to my side. It is truly a dark humor. Only by losing something important do you understand the significance of keeping what you hold dear. Now, I have a chance to repay not just Hizashi, but also Hinako for my ways from before," Hiashi replied.
Kushina turned back to the compound. Perhaps it was a bit conceited of her, but she liked to think that her son's immoral love for her had been the catalyst which caused this whole thing to happen. "So how is your third child coming along?" Kushina asked. Hiashi offered another light smile, though this could only be told if the person personally knew Hiashi himself. The man wasn't prone to smiling in front of people often.
"Hinako has been to the hospital for a couple of weeks. They tell me that the baby is healthy. Hinata and Hanabi are equally excited. The elders are being…difficult, but nothing we cannot prepare for," Hiashi replied. Kushina offered a wide smile with a nod of her own. However, her smile didn't last for very long before her eyes steeled. She brought her gaze to the mat.
"Did you…hear about the Chunin Exams?" Kushina asked. Hiashi's pleasant disposition quickly vanished and he folded his arms inside of his long silk robes. Now, this was a discussion that Hiashi had been meaning to have ever since the announcement had been made. Hiashi didn't like this and he was sure that Kushina knew he didn't like it.
"Hai, I have heard it as well. Earth Country's daimyo has a family member who married a Sunagakure noble related to the Wind Country's daimyo. In honor of their marriage, they are hosting the Chunin Exams in Iwagakure. I fear that someone's moving their plans behind the scenes. Iwagakure has constantly claimed a state of neutrality with Sunagakure. For this to suddenly happen, I fear that we're seeing a delicate powershift here," Hiashi said. Kushina feared that was the case as well and she didn't like it.
Kushina then released a sigh and shook her head. "Well, I suppose I might be worrying about nothing. A marriage…should…away…be…hono…." Kushina slowly panted as her vision grew blurry. She…couldn't focus on Hiashi's form anymore. She also felt…hot. Kushina felt…very hot. She groaned as she fell to the side and bashed her head into the carpet.
It took Hiashi a moment to register what had happened before he brought himself to reality. "Kushina-san? Kushina-san!" Hiashi called. He quickly ran over to her aid. Hiashi bent down and he took a look at her features. Hiashi could see sweat pour from the top of her head and onto the floor mats. Her breathing was sporadic. Hiashi cursed and jumped to his feet. He pushed open the doors which led to the outside.
"Call our medics! Someone take Kushina-san to a bedroom! Hurry!" Hiashi ordered. Both Main and Side Branch members moved without a single word of complaint. Hiashi watched as one of the male Hyuuga gently picked up the wheezing red-haired Uzumaki. The young Hyuuga carried her off through the rest of the compound with Hiashi close behind.
Hiashi quickly opened the door to the medical wing of their compound. The person who carried her gently rested Kushina on the bed. Her visage had only worsened on the walk over. Her heart quickened when she was laid to rest on the bed. Hiashi was at her side. "N-Naruto," Kushina called. She raised her hand into the air. Hiashi quickly grabbed it.
"Kushina-san, what's wrong?" Hiashi asked. Kushina tightly closed her eyes. Then, much to Hiashi's surprise, Kushina screamed out in pain. Hiashi watched as her red hair was quickly and easily overcome by the silver color of Honshou. Seals and runes which Hiashi couldn't even hope to identify appeared over her body. Black markings seared her skin. Each seal connected itself to a rune next to it. Hiashi and the other Hyuuga who joined him could hardly speak as the aura which surrounded her began to fluctuate about the room.
"H-Hiashi-sama, look outside!" one of them said. Hiashi glanced out the window and he could not hold his astonishment. The sky…which had been full of the sun's glory…was pitch black with a massive pillar of white light. That white pillar separated the sky in such an array of light that no doubt it was seen by nearly all of Konoha and…Hiashi knew the direction it was coming from. It was originating from the Uzumaki compound.
"Place Kushina-san in a barrier! I will stay with her. I will not let Naruto-san's mother endure this pain on her own. Remember that the Uzumaki clan are now our blood brethren. Do what you can to aid them!" Hiashi ordered. The Hyuga around him agreed. Hiashi braved Kushina's pressure and aura. All the while, he never left her side and he looked out into the world. What…was happening?
-x-
Tsunade cursed as she pushed Shikaku out of the way of a falling bookcase. The earth rumbled around Konoha. Shikaku couldn't hold his surprise and gasped as the floors of the Hokage Mansion began to crack. "An earthquake?!" Shikaku asked. He watched as the windows which separated the Hokage from the outside world crashed and scattered into pieces. Tsunade covered her head as glass fell on the floors.
"There were no signs of an earthquake!" Tsunade said. Despite the rumbling, she managed to reach Shikaku. She helped the head of the Nara clan to his feet. Both had been going over some field reports for the local jonin in the village until the sounds of the earth's anger became apparent.
Tsunade quickly released a breath and turned to the Jonin Commander. "Shikaku, organize the shinobi! We need to protect the children and the civilians! Contact all available shinobi and get them on the defense! We're going to have a mess to clean up and I want everyone ready for the repair!" Tsunade said. A massive rumble was the response to her question. However, Shikaku didn't utter a word. Tsunade turned around and she noticed Shikaku looking out of the broken windows.
"Shikaku? Wake up! We don't have…time…to…," Tsunade stared out the window. Tsunade wondered if she was dreaming. She…she had to be. Tsunade stared down at her village, Konoha. It was the village that her father had helped found. It was a nation that had long stood the tests of time and the trials of the world. Was this another one? Tsunade wasn't sure, but…she knew who was doing this.
Only one person could cause the spirits of the damned to walk…float among the living. Tsunade watched as a massive wall of light poured from northeast of the village and into the sky. The clouds darkened while rain and lightning fell from the sky. People screamed in terror and horror as spectral bodies tormented them. The ground split open in the village and Tsunade watched an enormous pillar of white fire explode releasing the demons of hell that were only ever told about in folklore.
The screeches of otherworldly beings stiffened her. For once in her life, Tsunade…was afraid of Naruto. Something…something had to be done about this. Tsunade and Shikaku felt a bead of sweat as they watched the hole in the sky open. Even the lightning changed color into a beautiful if frightening white color.
"Tsunade-sama, look out!" Shikaku hollered as he grabbed Tsunade and pulled her back to the floor. Tsunade could barely register the action before she and Shikaku heard a loud noise crashing just inches from them. The blonde woman and her Jonin commander felt the high winds long their faces. They couldn't recall the windows being exploded open this much.
Once the noise stopped for a brief period, both opened their eyes. Tsunade and Shikaku couldn't speak. The Godaime Hokage found herself…staring at her village. Half of the Hokage Mansion, the Academy, and even a portion of the Hokage Stone faces were completely obliterated without a single trace. Tsunade closed her eyes and sighed. "Shikaku," She said. Her throat felt dry when he turned to her. The female Hokage swallowed the lump in her throat.
"When this is over. I want available forces to find Uzumaki Naruto…and detain him!" Tsunade said. Shikaku didn't say anything. He just lowered his head and accepted the order.
-x-
"Hold him down! Quickly! I can't! He's too strong! AHHHH!" Yuri gasped as she watched Shi and Guren slam into the ground. Shi coughed and Guren groaned. Yuri stared in awe as an unholy scream shook itself through the Uzumaki Compound. Yuri screamed as a wave of Honshou blasted from the center of the field and into the sky. Yuri fell on her back and squinted an eye open.
"N-Nii-chan!" Yuri said. Another loud howl echoed in everyone's ears as they rushed down from the house. Yuri didn't even remember what happened. She and Naruto had just been finished having lunch when she asked her lover for more training. Naruto was happy to oblige her for a moment.
Yet, as soon as they walked out of the door, Naruto started screaming. It was such a shock to Yuri. She tried to get him to tell her what was wrong, but it wasn't long before she blasted away from him. She saw malicious entities of death circle in the sky. Shi and Guren had been the first to hear the commotion and tried to help Naruto, but his aura had blasted them away. Even Yuri was beginning to feel uncomfortable. She felt something in her head grinding at her, screaming at her, berating her, hating her. It was filled with such hatred that it almost overwhelmed Yuri in its bloodlust.
She…could also feel the pain of her brother's soul. He was in agony and his body ached for relief. But, Yuri didn't know what that relief was. "What's going on?!" Fujikaze asked, coming out of the house, sword in hand. Yuri watched Shi and Guren struggle to their feet.
"No idea, but we gotta get Naruto to stop. He's destroying everything!" Guren shouted. The wind blasted in her face. At the center of the field, Naruto laid on his knees still screaming. Yura ran out of the house with some of her weaponry. The tenders to the field quickly exited the compound and as per the safety guidelines.
The ground ripped out from under him. Fuka couldn't even open her eyes, the light was too bright. "Onii-sama, stop! You're destroying everything!" Yura called to him. Naruto didn't hear her. He just continued to scream his lungs out utter pain and agony that everyone wondered if he was somehow going to die.
"Shikyō-sama!" Fujikaze called. He raced to Naruto's aid, but it wasn't long until he was blasted away from the former blonde now silver-haired young man's personal space. The force was strong enough that Fujikaze slid across the dirt and into a section of the forest. Fujikaze groaned as he wiped some blood from his lips.
"Tch," Fuka sucked her teeth and quickly sped through some handsigns. Yuri and Yura gasped as Fuka took in a large breath of air. "Suiton: Suiryū Kōbaku (Water Release: Water Dragon Biting Explosion)," Fuka called out. She quickly released ten large balls of water from her mouth and into the air. The waters swiftly merged together and everyone noticed a very large water dragon dominate the skies.
"What are you doing?!" Guren asked. Quickly, Komachi stepped out of the house in time to see the action happen. The dragon snarled as it appeared over Naruto's screaming body. Fuka quickly ushered the dragon down over him. Fuka and the others glanced up and the young redhead gasped in fear when she saw a strike of lightning rush through the sky.
"No, no, no, I just wanted something to wake him up! He'll really get hurt!" Fuka said to herself. The dragon gave a mighty roar before it was consumed by the white lightning. It slammed into the ground over their clan head. Everyone quickly jumped back from the area in time to see the water crash into the trees bringing them down in a mixture of destruction and creation. Everyone landed safely away by going to the rooftops of their home.
"Fuka, why did you do that?! We're trying to help him, not hurt him!" Shi claimed. Fuka gave a small huff. It hadn't gone how she had wanted in the slightest. Shi could see that from the frustration on her face. He didn't press the issue any more than that. Fuka looked like she was already contemplating the issue as it was.
"I don't get it. He was fine nearly all morning and then this?" Yuri asked. No one knew how to respond to her. How they wished Risa and Kushina were home currently. One could only hope that they would be able to deal with this situation. Hell, even Tayuya would have been helpful if she wasn't on the other side of the village doing some routine work for the Torture and Interrogation department. Maybe she could have…lulled Naruto to sleep or something.
Everyone waited for a moment. The water still flooded the area and the skies were still dark with energy and Naruto's aura, but they could no longer hear his screams. It was something they were thankful for. However, that thankfulness slowly turned to worry as seconds turned to minutes with nothing happening. "I think we need to go down there now. He hasn't come out of the water…and while he can't die, I'd rather not test it," Guren said. The others agreed.
Everyone was ready to go down until they saw the water start to steam. Bubbles exploded over the water's surface. The group watched the waters separate. The waters gently moved away from the household compound and into the nearby forest. "Shikyō-sama," Fujikaze said, a dreaded feeling rising from within him.
Once the water settled, everyone was immensely surprised when they saw Naruto standing at the center of the field, sword in hand. Yet, Yuri could tell. Something was wrong with him. Something was dreadfully wrong with him. Never mind that there wasn't a single bit of damage from the jutsu that could be seen on him. He seemed so…unresponsive. Plus…there was that white, porcelain Hannya mask on his face. The way it resembled the Shinigami's face chilled everyone's body. It's long, sharp horns, and those sharp jagged teeth were not filling everyone with confidence. Naruto's eyes had even changed. Gone were the light blue eyes that Yuri and Yura loved so much, replaced by them were two black slitted pupils and two yellow-filled corneas. His once majestic white robes were now completely black and his once white hair that made Yuri question if he were even mortal…was now long, black, and spiky at the same time.
Everyone cautiously stepped onto the wet ground. Fuka seemed relieved that Naruto was even standing after that. "Naruto? Are you okay?" Guren asked. He didn't respond to her. He just continued to stare at the house. Everyone glanced at each other. Fujikaze took a hesitant step forward. His master's aura…there was something dark in it. The formerly deceased leader of Iron Country could tell that much.
Fujikaze parted from the group and stepped before Naruto. "Shikyō-sama, it is I, Fujikaze, at your service. Are…Are you of sound mind?" the swordsman asked. Naruto still didn't look at him. Fujikaze reached out to touch Naruto. He wondered if he could get that mask off Naruto's face. It looked very unsettling and Fujikaze wanted it off his master's face.
As soon as Fujikaze even assumed to be reaching for Naruto's mask, the blonde's eyes turned to him. Fujikaze took a step back in worry. "Shikyō-sama, please…say something," Fujikaze pleaded. He only watched Naruto's hand begin to glow. The others felt anxiety rise when a dark, black mist poured onto the ground. It quickly rose in the air and it took the form of Pakura. Pakura stepped out of the dark mist, the same white mask on her face.
"Pakura-san?" Yura asked. The former Suna kunoichi didn't move despite her name being called. Instead, she raised her hand to meet her face. Everyone watched her raise her hands into the air. Fujikaze widened his eyes as a massive ball of black fire appeared overhead. Her eyes pierced death into their bodies.
"Shakuton: Shōkyakeru No Jutsu (Scorch Release: Incinerating Flare Technique)," Pakura murmured. Fujikaze and the others could hardly believe their eyes before Pakura launched the massive ball of fire at them all. Fujikaze quickly jumped to the side and out of the way of the coming technique. Fuka and Guren dashed out of the way while Shi grabbed Komachi and pulled her to the ground with him. Yuri and Yura could hardly believe their eyes as the ball of flame was just inches from passing them by.
Somehow the ball missed the house and crashed into green behind it. The heat from the flames destroyed the trees leaving them husks of their once flourishing mass. Meanwhile, the others were in disbelief. Naruto's…summon had just attacked them. "Naruto! What are you doing? Stop her!" Guren called out. The blonde just continued to look at them.
It was then that Pakura suddenly appeared in front of Guren. The blue-haired jonin couldn't even hold her surprise when the green-haired, orange-tipped woman spun her body. Her leg slammed into Guren's cheek. Guren slammed into the house, the air blasted from her lungs as she slid down to the ground. Shi snarled and turned around.
"Naruto! Snap out of it! What's wrong with you?! It's us! Your family! Don' you recognize us?!" Shi asked, but Naruto didn't respond to him. Instead, Naruto clenched his fist. Suddenly, Gari, Suiren, Yahiko, Dan, and Kimimaro appeared as well. All five held the varying shinigami masks as Naruto did. Everyone was instantly on guard when each summon drew out a blade or some other form of weaponry.
"What the…Nii-chan, what are you doing? It's me, Yuri, and Yura-nee-chan! Can't you hear me?" Yuri asked. No, this couldn't be happening! Naruto loved them. Naruto loved them all. He loved his family. There…there had to be a reason for this. He wouldn't do this. Tears fell from Yuri's eyes. Yura stood in place, shaking. The one they both loved was attacking their family.
"Guren!" Fuka called, but she turned around just in time to see Kimimaro in front of her. He swung a wide blade of bone in front of her. Fuka watched the weapon came down upon her, but it was quickly parried and blocked by Komachi. Komachi placed the full weight of her body into her blade and pushed Kimimaro off. Fuka released a breath as Komachi came down in front of her.
Fuka steeled her nerve for a moment. "Thank you," she told Komachi. Komachi didn't reply and Fuka looked on. She could see the trembling in the former Anbu's body. Her cousin was not taking the situation well. It even appeared that even holding her sword at Naruto was proving to be a challenge. She just kept shaking.
Kimimaro flipped through the air and landed on the ground. Quicky, Suiren jumped on his shoulder and hopped into the air. She grabbed her blade and held it overhead. She didn't get very far before Shi intercepted her with a kunai. He growled at her while she looked at him with cold, dark eyes. Both landed on the ground away from each other. The former Kumo nin noticed that the formerly living Kiri nin was ready to attack once again. He made sure he was ready to take her on. "Dammit, what's going on here? Naruto wouldn't do this! I know he damn well wouldn't. Naruto, I'm going to trust you on this. This can't be your fault," Shi thought. That said, he quickly assessed the situation.
"Clear your heads!" He told everyone else. They glanced at him in surprise. "Naruto…Naruto needs our help! As his family, we can't let him do this! Restrict yourself to non-lethal techniques! Take him out! We have to forcefully restrain him!" Shi called to them all. He felt so bad when he saw the looks of utter shame and sadness on Yuri and Yura's face. How he had underestimated how much they loved him, but they had to do this!
Shi turned around just in time to clash blades with Suiren. Damn, he had only seen her once. Her body structure didn't show it, but she was pretty damn strong if Shi had to give her a compliment. He honestly would have loved to spare with her if not for the current situation. He managed to roll backward and kick her away from him. She landed on her hands and swung her body.
On the other side, Fujikaze kept back Yahiko. The former leader of the Akatsuki swung his leg for a kick. Fujikaze quickly countered with his own kick. The two swung their legs back and forth while their hands were a flurry of activity. Yahiko jumped into the air. "Suiton: Mizurappa!" Yahiko called out and a blast of water escaped from his lips. Fujikaze drew back his blade.
"Senmai Issen (One Thousand Bladed Flashes)" Fujikaze said as he swung his blade so fast for anyone to possibly keep their eyes focused and sheathed it once again. The blast of water didn't reach him and scattered over the field. Yahiko hardly seemed deterred by the action. His masked eyes only expressed a hollow void of life. It was something the former general of the Land of Iron was having too much trouble understanding.
Guren groaned as she pushed herself off the broken piece of the house. She wobbled to her feet. Her hand wiped the blood from her lips. "Naruto, what's happening to you?" Guren asked. The wielder of crystal techniques stilled when she noticed a shadow looming over her. She turned back and noticed Gari staring down at her. "Bakuton: Bakuken (Explosion Release: Exploding Fist)," Gari called out. Guren cursed and slammed her hands together. A wall of crystal separated her from Gari. His fist bashed the crystal causing a massive explosion of debris which drew everyone's attention.
Guren jumped out smoke and falling wood while Gari gently stepped on the dirt. He stared at her and he was ready to attack again. Guren shifted herself into one of her family famed taijutsu's styles. The deceased Iwa nin seemed ready as well. Both were ready to charge at each other again. "STOP IT!" Yuri yelled. Guren and Gari caught each other's punches. The summons and the defending Uzumaki turned to her.
Naruto, with Pakura and Kimimaro at his side, glared her. "Nii-san, stop it! Stop it right now! I…I…I won't fight you! I know you! You love me! You love all of us! Please…!" Yuri begged. Yura looked at her sister. Why? Why couldn't she say those words too? It tore her heart to see this, but she couldn't stop her trembling. She…she wanted to say that too, but…she was so scared. She was scared of the Naruto in front of her.
"Yuri," Shi said as he tried to keep Suiren away from him. Shi gasped when he felt an overwhelming blast of energy upon him. Shi turned around and his breath nearly escaped from his body when he saw power exploding out of Suiren's body. Her yellow eyes glared murderously into his own. Shi grunted as Suiren pushed him into the ground.
"Shi!" Guren called, but she didn't have much time to worry about him before Gari jumped into the air over her head. Guren watched him slam into the ground where she had been standing ushering in a wide destruction of the ground. Guren rolled on the ground in utter shock. Gari arose from the dirt unscathed glaring furiously at Guren. The jonin raised a crystal blade from her arm and snarled back.
Yuri and Yura were confused. Instead of calming down, they seemed even angrier than before from Yuri's words. "GAH!" Yuri turned around and she couldn't believe her eyes when she saw Fujikaze clutching a bleeding wound on his side. Yahiko swiped away blood from his blade.
Komachi received a punch to the gut from Dan. He then swirled his body and slipped her off her feet. Komachi attempted to correct herself by adding chakra to her hands, but the young blonde only saw Dan hold up a handsign. "Reika no Jutsu (Spirit Transformation Technique)," Dan called. Everyone watched his body drop to the ground. Komachi fell to the ground as well, but she slowly began to stand up.
The former Root anbu turned around and faced everyone. She gripped her sword and Yuri felt cold dread fill her body, mind, and heart when Komachi pointed the blade at her own throat. "KOMACHI-SAN! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" Yura hollered. Fujikaze grunted and fell to his knees with a curse. No, his master would never forgive himself if this happened. Guren punched Gari in the face and raced over to Komachi, but Kimimaro quickly cut her off.
"Stop," Yuri said. Her body huffed. Memories of Shizune and Ebisu's bodies on the ground in front of her filled her mind. No, Naruto couldn't do this. Yuri watched Komachi's hands tremble as the tipped blade shed a drop of blood from her throat. "Stop please," Yuri said again as she balled her fists. Everyone turned to Naruto and they watched him raise a hand. He then brought it down. Komachi brought her blade back.
"I SAID STOP IT!" Yuri hollered with a mighty cry as her red hair swiftly changed silver. Her body was wrapped in a white cloak that she recalled so much. Everyone groaned as they covered their eyes. Naruto squinted his own for a moment as Yuri took a deep breath of air. She screamed into the sky as the ground beneath her feet cracked into pieces. Yura took a step back in awe of her younger sibling.
Soon, Komachi found herself flipped upside down. The silver-haired Uzumaki slammed Komachi into the ground and kicked the blade away. "Get out of her! Get out of her right now dammit! I SAID GET OUT!" Yuri shouted angrily. Everyone then began to see a red cloak of chakra begin to cover her silver-white cloak. Yuri's teeth sharpened and her claws largened. Her hands became overcome with a powerful glow. She stepped her hands into Komachi's body. No one could utter a sound when she forcefully pulled out Dan's spirit from Komachi's soul. She then threw him into his own body. Her cousin laid on the ground, unconscious.
Dan stood to his feet, a scowl on his face. Yuri stepped in front of everyone. "I don't know who you are or why you've taken over my Nii-san, but YOU WON'T LIVE TO REGRET IT!" Yuri exploded. Her chakra blasted into the sky and a deep screech escalated from Naruto's lips. His summons turned to him for a moment as Yuri continued to expose her anger and frustration. Dan released a powerful roar which most could not have taken for his voice.
He was ready to dash at Yuri, but an unheard order stopped him. He turned around and he noticed Naruto stand to his pale blue-haired young man stepped back as did the others. Fujikaze roughly panted as he gripped his blade. Guren collected Shi and Fuka pulled Komachi away to safety. Yuri stared at Naruto as the once blonde, now raven-haired young Hinoken member stood in front her, his blade in hand. Their eyes glared at each other. Naruto then pointed his sword at her. Yuri took a taijutsu stance. "Nii-san,"Yuri thought sadly. This…this wasn't her brother. For the family that she had, she couldn't let this thing have her brother or them.
Naruto dashed forward and Yuri did the same. With a slash of his blade, Naruto screamed. Yuri blocked his sword strike and swung her leg. The male jinchuuriki quickly blocked her kick and force her off. Yuri took a couple of steps back in surprise, but she didn't let it hold her back for long. She sucked in her legs and the ground exploded in a mass of spiritual power before she launched herself forward. She brought her fist back.
Naruto glanced up at her. He placed his foot up and it stopped her punch. Naruto used her strength to push himself into the air. He brought his blade back. "Yuri-sama! Be ready! That's one of Shikyō-sama's best techniques!" Fujikaze called out, still injured. Yuri didn't have to be told twice. She loved her brother. The redhead knew him very well. Naruto swung his blade as an arc of Honshou exploded from each swipe. Yuri stepped to the side and backpedaled away from each one. She landed on the ground and jumped back in time for an arc to slice a corner of the tip of her hair.
Yuri panted for a moment, but when she looked up Naruto was already gone. He quickly materialized behind her. "Yuri behind you!" Yura called. Yuri gasped, but Naruto gave a growl to Yura. He dashed towards her. Yura widened her eyes as Naruto pointed his ferocious energy at her. She could see it in his eyes. He…he would strike her down without remorse for his actions.
As his blade reached her face, a hand grabbed the sword and redirected it to the house. Yuri, Yura, Fujikaze, and the rest of the Uzumaki clan could hardly believe their eyes when half the house ruptured in a ground-shattering explosion. Planks of wood flopped through the air. Yura fell back and Yuri panted as blood dripped from her hand. Naruto turned back to her, hated swelled in his heart at her intervention. Blood…blood must be summoned and had for this. "Nii-chan, I know you're in there! Fight it! You're better than this! I know you're not so weak that you would willingly be controlled!" Yuri called to himself. Everyone seemed surprised when Naruto gave a grunt of pain. He touched his mask and snarled. Sweat dripped from his face with everyone encouraging him. Naruto dropped to one knee. Too much noise. Stop your screaming! Stop! STOP! STOP!
Naruto roared a malicious amount of energy and stepped back next to his summons. His mask started to change. The open mouth slowly began to close. Naruto's blade flourished with malignant energy. Yuri quickly stood in front of everyone. Yet, a drop of sweat poured from her visage. Her lover's anger was legendary. It seemed like nothing would stop him. "Uzumaki Fukushū: Shinigami…," Naruto stopped.
Everyone tensed up, but they saw the sky clear up. All traces of evil energy vanished away. One by one, Naruto's summons started to vanish back into his hand. A crack appeared on his mask, then another, and another. His mask crumbled into pieces revealing his face. Everyone saw the tears in his eyes before he fell to the ground unconscious. Yuri dropped to her knees with a hard pant, her aura dissipating. Naruto dropped his blade to the ground.
Soon everyone noticed the reason for his state. Behind him, the Shinigami appeared. If the god's visage could change then it would have expressed utter sadness. Yuri raced to Naruto and held him in her arms. Everyone released a breath and dropped to the ground, thankful to be safe for a little while. The Shinigami stared at the remaining remnants of Naruto's mask. His eyes narrowed. "Uzumaki Ichizoku, this is my fault. I humbly beg your forgiveness for this transgression," The God of Death apologized. Everyone looked at him in confusion. Meanwhile, Yuri continued to gently soothe Naruto even as everyone saw his tears stain the ground.
KG: Whew, I suppose I can stop there. Finally, back to preseason!
Wifey: Let's just hope you don't feed like your last game.
KG: That Karma one-shotted me! What do you want from me?!
Wifey: To be competent at the game.
KG: What? The community can't even do that!
Wifey: Be better than them!
KG: Sigh, just give me that damn Christmas list.
Wifey: Your gift to me would be you giving up on cream soda.
KG:…..HAHAHAHAHAHA! You guys hear that? Give up on cream soda! HAHAHAHAHA! Oh damn, hun, who said you don't have a sense of humor?
Wifey: You.
KG:….oh. I'll think about it.
KG: Anyway, see you later guys. I'll try not to take so long this time. Stay Breezy, Protect what's important to you, review, and SEND ME…uhhh, SEND ME….ummmm, FUCKIN' SEND ME….hmm, this is harder than I thought.
Wifey: You're pitiful.
KG: FUCKIN' SEND ME CHERRY COCA-COLA! ALSO, RESPECT THE FUCKIN'….COLA? Dammit, see? This didn't go well!
Wifey: Sigh.