Chapter 8:The red haired Reaper
***The next morning.***
As the morning light filtered through the windows, Naruto stirred from his dreams, memories of Team Three and Tenten still lingering in his mind. Stretching his limbs, he prepared himself for the day ahead, a sense of duty settling over him. With a sense of purpose, Naruto made his way to the meeting point where Kakashi briefed them on their tasks for the day. To his surprise, Kakashi singled him out, entrusting him with the important responsibility of guarding the bridge builder.
"You're in charge of protecting the bridge builder today, Naruto." Kakashi said, his voice serious. "I need you to keep an eye on him while I take the rest of the team for tree-climbing practice." Naruto nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of his assignment. He watched as Kakashi led the other students away, leaving him alone with the bridge builder.
Turning his attention to the elderly man, Naruto struck up a conversation, eager to learn more about the village and its inhabitants.
"So, what can you tell me about this place?" Naruto asked, his curiosity piqued. The bridge builder, grateful for the company, began to open up, sharing stories of the village's struggles and the hardships its people faced on a daily basis.
"We've been through a lot here." The bridge builder said, his voice tinged with sadness.
"Ever since the Land of Waves was ravaged by Gato, life hasn't been easy for us." Naruto listened intently, his heart going out to the villagers and their plight. He knew he had to do something to aid, even if it was just lending a listening ear.
"Is there anything I can do to help?" Naruto asked, his determination shining through. The bridge builder smiled gratefully, touched by Naruto's offer of assistance.
"Well, there's always something that needs to be done around here." He said. "Maybe you could lend a hand with repairing some of the damaged buildings or helping to gather supplies for the villagers."
As the day wore on, Naruto worked tirelessly, his paper clones darting around the village like busy bees, helping wherever they could. Some mended roofs, others repaired walls, and a few even tended to the sick and injured. Meanwhile, Naruto focused his efforts on the bridge, creating a small army of paper clones to assist the bridge builder in his monumental task. With their combined efforts, the progress on the bridge was astonishing, what would have taken weeks to complete was now nearing completion in a matter of hours.
Naruto approached his exhausted teammates, noticing Sasuke's absence but not showing much concern. He glanced at Kakashi, more out of curiosity than worry.
"Where's Sasuke?"Naruto asked curiously.
Kakashi replied casually. "He's still struggling with the tree-climbing exercise. I've got him doing some extra practice. He'll join us later." Naruto nodded, not particularly bothered.
"Alright, cool." He said, before turning to the rest of the team.
"I'm going for a midnight stroll. Back in a bit." Sakura, too tired to care much, simply waved him off. Karin, lost in her own thoughts, didn't react much either. Kakashi, resigned to Naruto's antics, just gave him a half-hearted warning to be careful. With a carefree shrug, Naruto set off into the night, ready to explore the village.
Naruto prowled the streets of the Land of Waves like a shadow, his senses sharp and his resolve unwavering. He moved with purpose, scanning the dimly lit alleyways and rundown buildings for any sign of Gato's men. As he traversed the winding streets, Naruto's eyes flickered from shadow to shadow, his ears straining to catch even the faintest sound of movement. The air was thick with tension, and he could feel the weight of his mission pressing down on him. Suddenly, a distant noise caught his attention—a raucous laughter mixed with the clinking of glasses. Naruto's heart quickened with anticipation as he followed the sound, his footsteps silent against the cobblestone streets.
Drawing closer to the source of the commotion, Naruto's senses went into overdrive. He could see the flickering lights of a nearby tavern, casting an eerie glow onto the deserted street. The laughter grew louder, mingled with the unmistakable sound of raised voices.
Naruto watched from the shadows as Gato's men stumbled out of the dimly lit tavern, their laughter ringing out into the night air like a discordant melody. His jaw clenched with determination as he waited for the opportune moment to make his move. As the men staggered down the deserted streets, their drunken voices slurred and their movements unsteady, Naruto followed closely behind, his footsteps soft against the cobblestone pavement. He kept to the shadows, his senses alert for any sign of danger.
The men eventually reached the docks, their raucous laughter mingling with the sound of crashing waves. Naruto watched as they stumbled onto a rickety old boat, their movements clumsy and uncoordinated. It was clear they had imbibed far too much alcohol.
As Naruto followed the boat from above, Kurama's voice echoed in his mind, questioning his motives. The Nine-Tails was both curious and intrigued by Naruto's actions.
"Why do you involve yourself in the affairs of these humans?" Kurama asked, his tone filled with genuine curiosity. Naruto's gaze remained fixed on the boat below as he replied.
"Because it's the right thing to do. These people are suffering, and if I can help, then I will." Kurama snorted, its immense chakra swirling around Naruto like a protective barrier.
"You've always been too soft, Naruto. These humans will only ever disappoint you." Naruto frowned, a pang of sadness tugging at his heart. He knew Kurama's words held some truth, but he couldn't ignore the suffering of the innocent.
"I know they're not perfect." Naruto said, his voice tinged with determination. "But that doesn't mean I should just stand by and do nothing. If I can make a difference, then I have to try." Kurama fell silent, its chakra pulsing gently around Naruto in a gesture that was almost comforting. Despite its gruff exterior, the Nine-Tails seemed to understand Naruto's convictions, even if it didn't entirely agree with them.
The boat had docked on the far side of the island, away from prying eyes. As the men exited the vessel, Naruto followed behind, hovering silently above them, his form blending into the darkness of the night sky. The group made their way to a large building near the docks, where they intended to spend the night. Naruto watched from above, waiting patiently for the right moment to act.
After ensuring that the men were all heavily asleep, Naruto transformed himself into a paper-like substance, allowing him to squeeze through the bottom crack of the door unnoticed. Inside, he found himself in a storage room filled with crates of food and supplies. The room was dimly lit, the only light coming from a small lantern hanging on the wall. Naruto moved cautiously, his senses sharp and alert, as he searched for any sign of the men's intentions.
The voice of Kurama echoed in Naruto's mind, a constant presence urging him to take decisive action.
"Kill them." the fox spirit advised, his tone as cold as ice. "Take the supplies for the villagers. It's the only way to ensure their survival." Naruto's gaze hardened as he listened to Kurama's words. He knew what needed to be done, and he didn't hesitate.
"You're right." He responded, his voice firm and unwavering. "They don't deserve to live if it means innocent people suffer." With grim determination, Naruto conjured a blade of paper, his hands steady as he prepared to carry out the task at hand.
"I'll do it." he declared, his resolve unyielding. Kurama's eyes glinted with approval, sensing the determination radiating from the young ninja.
"Good." He growled. "Make them pay for their crimes." Naruto nodded, his jaw set in determination. Without another word, he slipped into the shadows, his paper blade poised and ready. He moved with silent precision, his movements fluid and controlled as he approached the sleeping men. As he stood over them, Naruto felt a surge of icy resolve coursing through his veins. With a swift motion, he brought down the blade, the paper slicing effortlessly through the air. The men never knew what hit them as their lives were swiftly extinguished. With the deed done, Naruto wasted no time in gathering the supplies, his movements efficient and methodical. He worked quickly, his mind focused solely on the task at hand. There was no room for hesitation, no time for remorse. Once the supplies were secured in a scroll, Naruto glanced around the room, his expression unreadable.
"It's done." he said, his voice devoid of emotion. "Let's get out of here."
Kurama nodded in approval, a silent acknowledgment of Naruto's resolve. Together, they slipped out into the night, leaving behind a room stained with blood and the promise of retribution.
***The next morning***
Naruto relished the freedom to roam as he pleased, knowing it was the girls turn to take over the duties of guarding the bridge builder. With a sense of purpose, his clones began distributing the supplies he had acquired during last night's mission. The villagers greeted him with gratitude, their voices filled with reverence as they hailed him as a fox spirit and a blessing to their community. Perched atop a weathered rooftop, Naruto surveyed the scene below with a watchful eye.
His clones moved through the bustling streets, their hands laden with much-needed provisions for the villagers. Yet, despite the outward appearance of normalcy, a gnawing sense of unease settled in Naruto's chest. Something felt off, a prickling sensation at the edge of his consciousness that he couldn't quite shake. His azure eyes scanned the crowd, searching for the source of his unease.
And then, he saw her – a girl of about fifteen years old, her fiery red hair cascading down her back in waves. There was something about her, something familiar that tugged at Naruto's senses like a half-forgotten memory stirring in the depths of his mind.
He couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. Sensing his unease, Kurama's voice echoed in his mind.
"Something troubling you, pup?" Kurama's deep voice rumbled in Naruto's thoughts. Naruto sighed inwardly, the weight of his thoughts heavy on his shoulders.
"Yeah, something feels off. Can't quite put my finger on it." He admitted, frowning. Kurama's tone was cautious.
"Trust your instincts, Naruto. They've kept you alive this long." The fox advised, his voice tinged with concern. Naruto nodded, his gaze still fixed on the red-haired girl below.
"I know, Kurama. Just gotta figure out what's bothering me." He murmured, more to himself than to the fox spirit. As the conversation lapsed into silence, Naruto's thoughts drifted back to the mysterious girl, her presence like a puzzle begging to be solved.
When she finally emerged from the crowd, carrying her supplies, he followed her discreetly, his curiosity driving him forward. As they arrived at the shack adorned with the symbol of the Uzumaki clan, Naruto felt a surge of excitement. Could this girl be one of his distant relatives? He pushed the thought aside as he knocked on the door, the anticipation building with each passing moment.
As the door slid open, Naruto was met with the sight of the red-haired girl, her green eyes widened in surprise. She seemed taken aback by his appearance, and Naruto could see a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks. She quickly bent down, bowing respectfully.
"Um, hello there." She said, her voice soft and unsure. "Is there something I can help you with?"
Naruto was momentarily struck by her beauty, his admiration evident in his gaze.
"Uh, yeah, I, um..." He stumbled over his words, momentarily lost in her presence. "I-I'm Naruto. Naruto Uzumaki." He finally managed to say, offering a sheepish grin. The girl's eyes widened in recognition at the mention of his name.
"Uzumaki? Like the clan?" She asked, a hint of awe in her voice. Fuka straightened up, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
"Yes, I am Fuka Uzumaki." She said, her voice filled with pride. "It's rare to find another Uzumaki. Please, come in. I'll make some tea." Naruto's eyes lit up with excitement, a smile spreading across his face.
"Yeah, that's right! I'm from the Uzumaki clan too!" he exclaimed, stepping inside. "I never thought I'd meet another Uzumaki." Fuka's smile widened at his enthusiasm, and she gestured for him to take a seat.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Naruto. Please, make yourself at home." She disappeared into the kitchen, returning shortly with a steaming pot of tea and two cups.
Naruto and Fuka sat close together, the warmth of the tea between them. Fuka poured Naruto a cup, her movements graceful and inviting. Naruto felt a rush of warmth spread through him as Fuka's hands traced his body, her touch sending shivers down his spine. He couldn't deny the attraction he felt towards her, but thoughts of Tenten lingered in the back of his mind, causing a twinge of guilt to tug at his conscience.
"Um, Fuka, I..." Naruto stuttered, trying to find the right words to respond to her advances.
"I, uh, actually have someone else in mind." He confessed, feeling guilty for even considering someone else while Tenten was still on his mind. Fuka's eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly composed herself, a playful smile dancing on her lips.
"Oh, really?" she teased, her fingers lightly tracing his tail. "So, are you two dating then?" Naruto shook his head, his heart racing at her touch.
"No, not yet." He admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "But I'd like to be." Fuka's smile widened at his response, and she leaned in closer, her breath warm against his ear.
"Well then, Naruto." She murmured, her voice low and seductive. "Maybe I can help you forget about her for a little while." She continued to run her fingers through his hair, eliciting a soft sigh from Naruto as he leaned into her touch, his blush deepening.
Naruto felt a pang of discomfort as he entered his inner world, finding Kurama there, lounging behind the bars of his cage with a big bucket of popcorn in paw. The fox's eyes gleamed with mischief as he watched Naruto's awkward encounter with Fuka.
"What are you doing here, Naruto? Can't you see I'm trying to enjoy the show?" Kurama grumbled, his tone laced with irritation. Naruto sighed, feeling a mix of embarrassment and frustration.
"I-I just needed some advice." He admitted reluctantly, avoiding Kurama's gaze. Kurama scoffed, rolling his eyes.
"Advice? About what? How to be a proper fox and mate like a rabbit?" He teased, taking a handful of popcorn and popping it into his mouth.
Naruto sighed, running a hand through his hair.
"It's just... I don't know what to do, Kurama." He admitted, looking up at the towering fox. "I like Fuka, but I don't want to betray Tenten's memory." Kurama rolled his eyes, crossing his arms.
"Oh, please." He scoffed. "You're not betraying anyone. Tenten would want you to be happy. And besides, you're a young man with needs. Don't let this opportunity slip away." Naruto frowned, feeling conflicted.
"But what if I'm not ready?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Kurama sighed, shaking his head.
"Naruto, you're strong, brave, and kind-hearted." He said, his tone softening. "You've been through so much, and you deserve to be happy. Just follow your heart, kid. It won't lead you astray." With Kurama's words echoing in his mind, Naruto took a deep breath and made his decision. With a sigh, Naruto returned to reality, his mind buzzing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. He knew Kurama was right; he had to trust himself and follow his heart, even if he wasn't entirely sure where it would lead him.
As Fuka's arms enveloped Naruto in an intimate embrace, he felt a rush of warmth flood his senses. Her soft lips brushed against his cheek, sending shivers down his spine. But as her tongue traced teasingly along his ear, Naruto's mind raced with confusion and desire.
"You... you're amazing." Fuka murmured huskily, her breath hot against his skin. "So strong, so handsome..." Naruto's heart pounded in his chest as he struggled to form coherent words in response to her seductive whispers. His mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions, his body reacting instinctively to her advances.
With a boldness he didn't know he possessed, Naruto leaned in, pressing his lips against Fuka's in a passionate kiss. But as their connection deepened, Naruto's senses tingled with an unfamiliar sensation. His chakra seemed to drain away, leaving him feeling weak and vulnerable. Panic surged through Naruto as he realized he couldn't move, his body frozen in place. Fuka's once-seductive gaze now held a hint of sorrow, as if she too were trapped in this moment.
"Naruto..." she whispered, her voice tinged with regret. "I'm sorry..."
As the kiss continued, Fuka's body ignited with an intense heat as she absorbed Naruto's chakra. Despite the burning sensation coursing through her veins, she couldn't tear herself away from him, drawn to the power surging between them. Minutes stretched into eternity as they remained locked in the embrace, their passion fueling Fuka's insatiable hunger for more.
But as the moments passed, Naruto's body stirred, breaking the kiss abruptly. They both gasped for breath, their chests heaving with exertion. Fuka's eyes widened with realization as she felt the overwhelming surge of chakra within her.
"I'm sorry..." She murmured again, her voice laced with regret and guilt. With a conflicted expression, she hastily retreated from the room, leaving Naruto alone with his thoughts. As Fuka ran from her home, she could feel the unfamiliar power coursing through her veins, energizing her with a strength she had never known. But beneath the exhilaration, a sense of unease gnawed at her conscience, knowing that she had taken something precious from Naruto without his consent.
Naruto struggled to regain his bearings, his body still trembling from the aftermath of Fuka's chakra absorption. With a determined grit, he pushed himself up, his mind racing with questions and confusion.
"Kurama, what... what just happened?" He muttered, his voice tinged with disbelief and frustration. The towering figure of Kurama loomed in his mind space, a mischievous glint in its eyes.
"Looks like you got more than you bargained for, kid." Kurama chuckled, his voice resonating within Naruto's consciousness. "Seems like your first kiss came with a side of chakra drain. Not the most romantic scenario, I must say." Naruto scowled, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and annoyance.
"Yeah, well, it's not like I planned for it to happen like that." He retorted, shaking his head in exasperation. Kurama let out a hearty laugh, the sound echoing through Naruto's mind.
"Ah, the joys of young love." He remarked, amusement evident in his tone. "But don't dwell on it too much, kid. You've got bigger things to worry about now." Naruto nodded, his mind still reeling from the encounter with Fuka. With a determined resolve, he pushed aside his personal turmoil and focused on the task at hand.
"Right. I need to find Fuka and figure out what's going on." He declared, steeling himself for the challenges ahead.
Naruto pushed himself to his limits, his muscles burning with exertion as he chased after Fuka. Despite her incredible speed, Naruto's determination kept him on her trail as he navigated through the dense foliage of the forest.
Naruto's heart raced as he approached the abandoned building, the desperate cries of women echoing in his ears. With each scream, his resolve strengthened, driving him forward despite the lingering exhaustion. "Please, someone help us!" a woman's voice pleaded, filled with fear and desperation. Naruto gritted his teeth, his fists clenched with determination. "Hang on, I'm coming!" he shouted back, his voice resolute as he burst through the broken doorway.
As Naruto entered the abandoned building, a gruesome sight greeted him. Gato's men lay in a heap, their bodies contorted and bloodied. His eyes widened as he saw Fuka standing over them, her expression unreadable. She moved towards the cages where women were imprisoned, their faces etched with fear and despair.
"What have you done?" Naruto gasped, his voice laced with shock and concern. "Why are they in cages?" Fuka ignored his questions, focusing solely on the women.
"Where is she?" she demanded, her voice sharp and urgent. "Where is my mother?" Naruto hurried to her side, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Fuka, calm down." he urged, trying to soothe her. "We'll find her, but we need to be careful." Fuka's eyes flashed with anger and desperation.
"They took her!" She exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion. "Those men took her away!"
Naruto gently guided Fuka towards the door, his expression serious yet empathetic.
"Let me, handle this." he said softly. "I'll talk to them, but you need to give them some space." Fuka's initial anger softened as she glanced back at the frightened women in the cages. Understanding dawned in her eyes, and she reluctantly nodded.
"Fine." she muttered, stepping outside. Once alone with the women, Naruto began to carefully free them from their cages, his movements gentle and reassuring.
"You're safe now." he assured them, his voice a calming presence amidst their fear. One of the women, her eyes wide with terror, spoke up.
"Thank you." she whispered, her voice trembling. "We thought we were done for." Naruto offered her a reassuring smile.
"Can you tell me what happened here? Where are the others?" The woman nodded, her voice shaky but determined. "They took the others to Gato's party house." she explained, her gaze flickering towards the door where Fuka had left.
"We're meant to be entertainment... and worse." Naruto's jaw tightened with anger, but he pushed it aside, focusing on the task at hand.
"Thank you for telling me." he said sincerely, offering the woman a hand to help her stand.
"We'll make sure you get out of here safely."
Naruto nodded as the paper clones led the women back to the village, ensuring their safety. He stood by Fuka's side, his gaze lingering on the abandoned building, a silent promise to return and put an end to Gato's atrocities.
Naruto approached her, his expression earnest.
"Tell me everything you know about this party house." he urged gently. "We need to stop Gato and find your mother." Fuka's eyes flickered with a mixture of determination and sorrow as she recounted what little information she had.
"It's a large mansion on the outskirts of the village." she explained, her voice tinged with bitterness.
"They take women there to... to be sold, or worse." Naruto's fists clenched at the thought, but he forced himself to stay calm, focusing on the task ahead. "We'll find her." he promised, his voice unwavering.
"But we need to work together." As they continued their search for the building, Naruto couldn't shake the feeling of curiosity about Fuka's abilities.
"Why did you steal my chakra?" he asked gently, his tone more curious than accusatory. Fuka's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she glanced away.
"I... I didn't mean to." she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But you were the only one with enough chakra to... to give me the power I needed." Naruto's expression softened as he placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"It's okay." he assured her, offering her a small smile. "We all make mistakes. What matters is what we do next."
Exhausted and weary, Naruto and Fuka trudged through the night, their steps heavy with fatigue. Each passing moment felt like an eternity as they searched tirelessly for any sign of the party house. But despite their best efforts, the elusive mansion remained hidden, shrouded in darkness and secrecy.
Fuka's strength began to wane, the chakra she had absorbed earlier now draining her energy with every step. Naruto, too, felt the strain of their prolonged search, his body aching with exhaustion. Even the countless clones he had summoned to aid in their quest were beginning to fade, their energy dwindling with each passing moment.
"We need to rest." Naruto finally declared, his voice strained with fatigue.
"We can't keep going like this. We'll only put ourselves in danger if we push too far." Fuka nodded wearily, her shoulders slumping with exhaustion.
"You're right." she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But what about my mother? We can't just give up."
"We won't give up." Naruto assured her, his determination shining through despite his weariness.
"But we need to be smart about this. We'll rest for now and come up with a plan in the morning." Reluctantly, Fuka agreed, her gaze lingering on the darkened horizon.
"I just hope she's okay." she whispered, her voice heavy with worry. Naruto placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, offering her a reassuring smile.
"We'll find her." he promised, his tone firm with resolve. "No matter what it takes."
As Fuka cooked dinner, the aroma of the food filled the small shack, offering a semblance of comfort amidst the darkness of their situation. Naruto watched her with curiosity, his mind buzzing with questions about her unique jutsu.
"So, what's the deal with that jutsu you used back there?" Naruto asked, his tone eager yet cautious. Fuka turned to face him, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
"Ah, that's Reaper's Kiss." she explained, her voice tinged with a hint of pride. "It's a technique passed down through my family for generations." Naruto's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Reaper's Kiss, huh? Sounds pretty intense." Fuka nodded, her expression growing serious.
"It can be." she admitted. "Normally, the jutsu works by absorbing the knowledge and Nature release of the person I... well, defeat." Naruto's eyes widened in understanding.
"So you have to, you know, finish them off?" Fuka nodded again, her gaze faltering slightly.
"Yes, unfortunately. But in your case, I only took a portion of your chakra." she continued, her tone apologetic. "Enough to mimic your jutsu, but not to absorb all of your knowledge." Naruto frowned, processing her words.
"So, how long can you use the jutsu with the chakra you took from me?" Fuka sighed, her shoulders slumping with exhaustion.
"Normally, it would only last about an hour for an average ninja." she explained. "But with the amount I took from you, I should be able to use it for about twelve hours." Naruto's eyes widened in surprise.
"Twelve hours? That's a lot." he remarked, impressed despite himself. Fuka chuckled softly, a hint of amusement in her voice.
"Yes, it is. I must admit, I'm surprised you're still standing after losing so much chakra." Naruto grinned sheepishly, scratching the back of his head.
"Well, you know me. I'm full of surprises." The two shared a moment of lighthearted laughter, their worries momentarily forgotten in the warmth of the shack and the companionship they had found in each other's company.
After they finished eating, Fuka glanced around the small shack, a hint of embarrassment coloring her cheeks.
"Um, Naruto, I... I only have one bedroll." she explained, her voice hesitant. Naruto blinked in surprise, then pointed towards a second bedroll tucked away in the closet.
"Actually, there's another one right there." he said, a small grin playing on his lips. Fuka's eyes widened in realization, and she quickly moved to retrieve the bedroll, throwing it outside of the shack with an exaggerated motion.
"Oops, silly me! There was a... uh, cockroach on it." she said, her cheeks flushing pink. Naruto raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by her antics.
"A cockroach, huh? Sure." he replied, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. As they settled down on the bedroll, Naruto couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth as Fuka nestled against him, her presence comforting despite the darkness that surrounded them. He felt her lips brush against his skin, sending shivers down his spine. His face flushed crimson as she kissed him, her touch electrifying yet gentle. He could feel her draining a little bit of his chakra, teasing him with her power.
"Your chakra tastes nice." she whispered, her voice soft against his ear, "but it's a little intense." Naruto's heart raced at her words, his mind spinning with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.
"I... uh, thanks?" he stammered, his cheeks burning with embarrassment. Fuka giggled softly, her laughter filling the small space between them.
"That's how I like it." she murmured, her breath warm against his skin. In that moment, as they lay together in the dim light of the shack, Naruto felt a sense of closeness and connection with Fuka that he had never experienced before. And despite the uncertainty of their circumstances, he couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope for the future.
***Next morning***
As Naruto woke up, he felt a warm, wet sensation in his mouth, and his eyes shot open in surprise. He tried to move, but found his arms restrained by Fuka's hair, which was wrapped around him like a cocoon. Her tongue danced around his mouth, exploring every inch as if she were savoring a delicious treat. One of her hands slipped under his shirt, her fingers tracing tantalizing patterns on his stomach, sending a shiver down his spine. Her other hand was busy stroking his tail, each touch sending waves of pleasure through him. Unlike their first encounter, where she had absorbed his chakra in one go, this time she was taking small bursts, prolonging the sensation. Naruto found himself enjoying every moment, his body responding to her touch.
He pressed his lips more firmly against hers, deepening the kiss. His hands moved of their own accord, one squeezing her behind, causing her to squeak in surprise. They broke away for a moment, both panting slightly, their eyes locked in a heated gaze. Fuka smirked, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
"You're quite the handful, Naruto." she teased, her voice husky with desire. Naruto grinned, his heart pounding in his chest.
"I could say the same about you." he replied, his voice filled with playful arrogance. Fuka chuckled, leaning in to capture his lips once more. Their kiss was fierce and passionate, each movement fueling the fire between them. Naruto knew that this was wrong, that he should stop, but he couldn't deny the intense attraction he felt towards Fuka.
As they continued to kiss, their bodies pressed against each other, Naruto felt a sense of exhilaration unlike anything he had ever experienced before.
He knew that this was dangerous, that he was playing with fire, but at that moment, all he could think about was Fuka and the incredible connection they shared.
As Naruto and Fuka were lost in their passionate kiss, Kurama's voice echoed in Naruto's mind, accompanied by the sound of him munching on popcorn.
"Come on, Naruto, don't hold back. You're almost there." the fox urged, his tone filled with mischief. Naruto shook his head, trying to ignore Kurama's teasing.
"Quiet, Kurama." he muttered, his voice slightly breathless as he leaned in to deepen the kiss. But before they could continue, their attention was diverted by the sudden appearance of a small dog wearing a ninja outfit. Naruto and Fuka broke away from each other, panting heavily as they looked at the unexpected visitor. The ninja dog cleared its throat, its voice surprisingly deep for its size.
"I've been sent by Kakashi-sensei." he said, his tone serious despite his comical appearance.
"He's wondering why you haven't returned to the bridge builder's home yet." Naruto blinked in surprise, realizing that he had lost track of time in the heat of the moment with Fuka. He glanced at Fuka, a sheepish expression crossing his face.
"Sorry, I got a little carried away." he admitted, scratching the back of his head awkwardly. Fuka chuckled, a playful glint in her eyes.
"Looks like we'll have to continue this later." she said, her voice filled with amusement.
Fuka got off of Naruto, urging him to eat breakfast. Naruto nodded gratefully, giving her a quick kiss before sitting down to eat. As he dug into the meal, he started recounting the events of the previous night to the ninja dog, explaining their search for the party house to save Fuka's mom. The dog rumbled irritably, its expression stern.
"You should have returned home sooner." he scolded, his tone gruff. Naruto shrugged sheepishly, acknowledging the reprimand.
"Yeah, we got a bit sidetracked." he admitted, feeling guilty for causing worry. Interrupting their conversation, Naruto suggested introducing themselves properly.
"I'm Naruto Uzumaki." he began, extending his hand in greeting. The ninja dog eyed Naruto warily before introducing himself as Pakkun.
"I work for Kakashi." he added, his tone matter-of-fact. Naruto's eyes lit up with hope as he turned to Pakkun.
"Can you help us find the party house, Pakkun?" he asked eagerly. Pakkun sighed, shaking his head.
"That's a decision for Kakashi to make." he replied firmly, his stance unwavering. Disappointment flickered across Naruto's face, but he nodded in understanding.
"Okay, we'll talk to Kakashi." he said determinedly. Turning to Fuka, he offered her a reassuring smile.
"Even if Kakashi doesn't help us, I'll find your mom myself." he promised. Fuka's eyes softened with gratitude as she placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder.
"Thank you, Naruto." she said softly, her voice filled with emotion. "I appreciate it. They eventually arrived At the bridge builder's home. Naruto felt the tension in the air as soon as they walked in.
Sakura and Karin stood in the doorway, their expressions twisted with disdain as they glared at Naruto.
"Look who decided to show up." Sakura sneered, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You're such a failure, Naruto. Always running off and abandoning your responsibilities." Karin scoffed, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Yeah, you're just trying to steal the spotlight from Sasuke like always." she accused, her tone venomous. Naruto's jaw clenched as he resisted the urge to snap back at them. Instead, he rolled his eyes in exasperation, brushing past them to enter the house.
"Shut up, Sakura. Shut up, Karin." he muttered under his breath, refusing to engage further. Fuka stepped forward, her fists clenched at her sides as she glared at Sakura and Karin.
"How dare you speak to Naruto like that?" she spat, her voice laced with anger. "He was out there trying to help save my mother while you two were here doing nothing!" The shock on Sakura and Karin's faces was palpable as they stared at Fuka in disbelief.
"What are you talking about?" Sakura demanded, her voice trembling with indignation.
"Why would you defend him? He's just a monster!" Karin nodded vehemently in agreement.
"Yeah, he's got a demon inside of him." she added, her voice dripping with contempt.
"He's dangerous. You shouldn't be defending him." Fuka's eyes blazed with fury as she stepped closer to Sakura and Karin, her fists still clenched at her sides.
"Naruto is not a monster." she declared, her voice ringing with conviction.
"He's a hero, and he's trying to do the right thing. Unlike you two, who are just sitting here judging him without knowing anything about him." Sakura and Karin exchanged incredulous looks, their expressions wavering between anger and uncertainty. They were momentarily speechless, taken aback by Fuka's fierce defense of Naruto.
Naruto entered the dining room, relieved to find Kakashi sitting at the table with earplugs in, clearly trying to block out Sakura's incessant screeching. He took a seat and began explaining the urgency of the situation regarding Fuka's mother. Kakashi listened intently, his expression serious as Naruto recounted their encounter with Fuka and the desperate need to find her missing mother. When Naruto finished speaking, Kakashi sighed heavily, removing his earplugs.
"Naruto, I understand the gravity of the situation." he began, his tone grave. "But I can't allow you to abandon your mission to help a single villager, no matter how dire their circumstances may be." Naruto's shoulders slumped in disappointment, but before he could protest, Kakashi held up a hand to silence him.
"However." Kakashi continued, "I understand the urgency of your request. So I'll make an exception for today. I'll send out one of my ninja dogs to assist you in your search for Fuka's mother." Relief flooded Naruto's features as he nodded gratefully.
"Thank you, Kakashi-sensei." he said earnestly. "I promise we'll make it quick." Kakashi nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze serious.
"Remember, Naruto." he said firmly, "The village needs the bridge builder to finish the bridge. It's not just about Fuka's mother; it's about the lives of everyone in the village. Do you understand?" Naruto met Kakashi's gaze with determination shining in his eyes.
"I understand, Kakashi-sensei." he replied solemnly. "I won't let you down." With that, he rose from the table and hurried out of the room, ready to embark on their mission to save Fuka's mother.
Fuka stormed out of the house, clearly frustrated by Sakura and Karin's harsh words. Naruto followed her, slipping out through the back door, where he found the little bulldog waiting for him. With a grin, he informed Fuka about Kakashi's decision to lend them assistance. Fuka's eyes lit up with joy, and without hesitation, she threw her arms around Naruto, pulling him into a grateful hug. Naruto couldn't help but smile, feeling her warmth and happiness radiating against him.
"We're going to find her, Fuka." he assured her, returning her embrace. "I promise." With renewed determination, they set off quickly, eager to begin their search for Fuka's mother. As they moved through the village, the little bulldog at their side, Naruto couldn't shake the feeling of urgency that drove them forward. They had a mission to complete, and nothing was going to stand in their way.
As they ventured deeper into the woods, Pakkun's keen senses picked up on a variety of strange smells wafting through the air.
"Hmm, something's off." Pakkun muttered, his nose twitching as he followed the scent trail. Naruto and Fuka trailed behind Pakkun, curious to see what he had detected.
"What do you smell, Pakkun?" Naruto asked, his brow furrowed in concentration. Pakkun sniffed the air again, his nose wrinkling in distaste.
"There's a mix of scents here." he replied, his voice gruff. "Some of them are... uh, post-mating smells." Fuka wrinkled her nose in disgust.
"Ew, that's gross." she muttered, her expression turning sour. Ignoring her comment, Pakkun continued to lead them through the woods until they reached a small clearing.
"Hmm, it seems like we've lost the scent." Pakkun remarked, scratching his head in confusion. Fuka frowned, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Are you sure your nose isn't broken or something?" she quipped, earning a scoff from Pakkun.
"Hey, watch it, lady." Pakkun retorted, shooting her a pointed glare. "My nose is sharper than any ninja's out there." Before Fuka could respond, Pakkun's attention was drawn to a particular patch of dirt in the clearing. He began to scratch at it furiously, digging up a hidden hatch beneath the forest floor. Naruto chuckled at Fuka's sheepish expression.
"Looks like Pakkun knows what he's doing." he said, giving her a playful nudge.
As they descended the stairs revealed by the hidden hatch, a musty odor filled the air, mixed with the unmistakable scents of alcohol, cigarettes, and something more sinister—sex. Naruto urged caution, and Fuka nodded, her expression tense with worry for her mother's well-being. Pakkun after finishing his task he promptly disappeared in a puff of smoke
They pressed forward, navigating the dimly lit hallway lined with closed doors. Naruto's chakra sensory technique alerted him to a presence behind one of the doors. With a shared nod, they approached cautiously, Naruto placing an earth talisman on the reinforced door and creating an opening in the surrounding wall. As they burst into the room, they found a man lounging amidst the remnants of a party, a bottle of sake clutched in one hand.
Reacting swiftly, Naruto conjured a flurry of paper to bind the man, while Fuka stepped forward, her voice firm as she demanded information about her missing mother.
"Where is my mother?" Fuka's voice trembled with urgency, her eyes burning with determination. The man smirked, his gaze flickering between Naruto and Fuka.
"What's it to you, sweetheart?" he sneered, his tone mocking. Naruto's expression hardened as he stepped closer, his blue eyes narrowing.
"You're going to tell us." he growled, his voice laced with barely contained fury.
"Or you'll regret it." Fuka's fists clenched at her sides, her nails digging into her palms as she fought to contain her emotions.
"Please." she pleaded, her voice wavering slightly. "Just tell us where she is." The man's smirk faltered, replaced by a flicker of uncertainty.
"I don't know what you're talking about." he stammered, his bravado wavering under the intensity of Naruto and Fuka's stares. Naruto's jaw tightened, his patience wearing thin.
"Don't lie to us." he snapped, his voice low and dangerous. "We know she's here. Now tell us where she is, or else." Fuka's eyes flashed with determination as she stepped forward, her voice unwavering.
"We won't leave until we find her." she declared, her tone resolute. "So you might as well save yourself the trouble and cooperate.
The man, still restrained by Naruto's paper bindings, chuckled darkly, his voice thick with malice.
"Oh, I know your mother." he taunted, his tone dripping with cruelty. " She was very nice on the eyes. But unfortunately, you're too late." His laughter echoed through the room, sending shivers down Fuka's spine as she struggled to deny the horrifying truth.
"You see, women don't last here that long." the man continued, his words like venom. "Normally, they only last about two weeks. But your mother, she's famous. She lasted a month before she succumbed." His grin widened, revealing yellowed teeth as he reveled in their anguish. Fuka's world crumbled around her as the weight of his words sank in.
She fell to her knees, her heart aching with grief and disbelief. Naruto, his expression pained, continued to use his chakra sensory technique to confirm the man's claims. With a heavy heart, he spoke the devastating truth.
"I'm sorry." he murmured, his voice barely audible over Fuka's sobs. " He's telling the truth." Overwhelmed by despair, Fuka collapsed to the ground, her body wracked with sobs as she wept like a lost child. The pain in her voice was palpable as she struggled to come to terms with the devastating news. The nausea rose within her, and she doubled over, retching uncontrollably, her stomach lurching with sickness.
Naruto moved to her side, placing a gentle hand on her trembling back as he offered what little comfort he could. Then, his gaze hardened as he turned to the man, his voice cold and measured.
"Where is her body?" he demanded, his tone devoid of emotion. "So we may properly bury her." The man's laughter echoed through the room, mocking and cruel.
"Sorry, fox boy." he sneered, his words dripping with disdain. "We don't bother keeping the corpses. We toss them into the sea." His callous disregard for Fuka's mother's remains sent a surge of anger coursing through Naruto's veins, but he held his composure, determined to bring closure to Fuka in any way he could.
As Naruto's anger simmered, he felt a shift within him.
Suddenly, he was standing ankle-deep in a flowing puddle, but his surroundings had transformed. Instead of facing the prisoner, he was confronted by the menacing cage of Kurama, the Nine-Tails, its rows of sharp teeth filling his vision. The fox's voice echoed in his mind, its tone heavy with malice.
"What will you do now? That woman who cared for you had her world completely shattered by these perverted humans." Naruto paused, the weight of Kurama's words sinking in. He could feel the demon fox's anger seeping into him, igniting a fire within his heart. The water around him began to bubble, mirroring the rage boiling inside him. Kurama's eyes gleamed with a sinister light as he urged Naruto.
"Take the girl to safety, and do what you must. Burn them. Let me hear their screams as you drag them kicking and screaming down to their demise." With a deep breath, Naruto returned to the present, the anger still smoldering within him. He crouched down, gently lifting Fuka into his arms, a steely resolve in his gaze. With a swift motion, he marked the ground with the symbol of the Flying Raijin, a determination burning in his eyes. With a burst of chakra, he teleported Fuka back to the bridge builder's home.
As Naruto's anger simmered, he felt a shift within him. Suddenly, he was standing ankle-deep in a flowing puddle, but his surroundings had transformed. Instead of facing the prisoner, he was confronted by the menacing cage of Kurama, the Nine-Tails, its rows of sharp teeth filling his vision. The fox's voice echoed in his mind, its tone heavy with malice.
"What will you do now? That woman who cared for you had her world completely shattered by these perverted humans." Naruto paused, the weight of Kurama's words sinking in. He could feel the demon fox's anger seeping into him, igniting a fire within his heart. The water around him began to bubble, mirroring the rage boiling inside him. Kurama's eyes gleamed with a sinister light as he urged Naruto.
"Take the girl to safety, and do what you must. Burn them. Let me hear their screams as you drag them kicking and screaming down to their demise." With a deep breath, Naruto returned to the present, the anger still smoldering within him. He crouched down, gently lifting Fuka into his arms, a steely resolve in his gaze. With a swift motion, he marked the ground with the symbol of the Flying Raijin, a determination burning in his eyes. With a burst of chakra, he teleported Fuka back to the bridge builder's home, ensuring her safety before turning his attention back to the task at hand.
Naruto reappears back in the room, noticing that the man is gone.
He steps into the hallway, his tails swishing around him slowly. As he makes his way down the hall, he hears footsteps approaching. Peering up, he sees the men returning, accompanied by more of their cronies.
"Hey, fox boy! After we're done killing you, we're gonna find that cute redhead and see if she can break her mother's streak." one of the men taunts, the same man they had interrogated earlier laughing like a maniac. Naruto narrows his eyes, anger flaring within him. He points his finger, aiming it at the man's groin. The small tailed beast bomb forms before shooting out in a beam, castrating him in front of all his associates. The man bends over, clutching his maimed area, howling and screaming in agony.
Naruto doesn't speak. He lunges forward, slashing at them, hacking their limbs into pieces of flesh like a surgeon, making sure not to be lethal, just enough to keep them alive. As he continues, Gato's men begin to beg for mercy, but their pleas fall on deaf ears. All Naruto hears are excuses as he cuts through them, ensuring not to harm any of the women. He creates a clone to guide them to freedom.
As he finishes roughing up their bodies, his orange robes stained red, he creates multiple paper clones to drag them into one room. He places fire talismans on each of them, activating them as flames shoot out, consuming Gato's men. They howl in agony as they burn alive, their skin melting. Naruto takes his time, bathing in the warmth.
"No mercy for scum like you." Naruto mutters coldly as he watches the flames engulf them. "You deserve every bit of this." The men scream and wail in agony as the fire consumes them, their cries echoing throughout the room. Naruto's eyes remain cold and determined as he watches.
