(See notes at the end of chapter)

Chapter 6 – The Beginning After The End

The next evening, the city was drenched in rain. The downpour cascaded from the rooftops and pooled in the streets, creating a symphony of sound that echoed through the night. Naruto stood by the window of his apartment, watching the rain fall. He turned to look at Rize, who was asleep on the couch, her form peaceful and serene despite the turmoil that surrounded them.

Naruto knew deep down that Rize was involved with Hinata's death somehow. Her connections and her past were too tangled with the darkness that had claimed Hinata. Taking one last look at her, he steeled himself for what he had to do. He donned his Shino mask, the persona that had become a symbol of both fear and justice and slipped out into the night.

Naruto moved through the city with the agility of a seasoned hunter, jumping from rooftop to rooftop, blending into the shadows. The rain was both a hindrance and a blessing, masking his presence but also making his path treacherous. He navigated the labyrinthine streets until he reached Hinata's house, the place where his heart had once found solace.

He approached quietly, his footsteps drowned out by the relentless rain. As he neared the house, he saw a light in the window a beacon in the darkness. He scaled the side of the house with ease, finding a vantage point from which to peer inside.

Through the window, Naruto saw Hinata's sister, her small frame wracked with sobs as she sat on the bed. The sight tugged at his heart, filling him with a profound sadness. She was mourning the loss of her sister, a pain Naruto understood all too well.

He watched silently, his presence hidden by the shadows and the rain. He wanted to go inside, to offer some comfort, but he knew that his appearance would only bring more fear and confusion. Instead, he listened, hoping to glean any information that might help him in his quest for justice.

Hanabi was speaking to someone on the phone, her voice barely audible over the sound of the rain. "I don't understand why this happened... Hinata didn't have enemies... she was so kind."

Naruto's heart ached with every word. He had to find the truth, for Hinata and for her grieving family. The weight of his mission pressed heavily on his shoulders, driving him forward.

"I saw something that night," Hanabi continued, her voice trembling. "A girl... I saw a girl near our house. She had long purple hair and was acting strange. I think she might have something to do with it."

Naruto's heart pounded as he heard this. A clue—finally. He strained to hear more but was interrupted by the sound of a car pulling up.

Naruto turned his gaze to the street below, where a sleek black car had come to a stop. Two figures stepped out, their movements precise and purposeful even in the pouring rain. It was Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha, two of the CCG's most formidable investigators, but when Naruto saw them, he froze.

These two doves were from his childhood. When he was younger, he had a best friend named Sasuke Uchiha and his older brother Itachi. Naruto cursed his luck. Why did they have to show up now? And even worse, why did he have to know who they were? If they found out his identity, his life would be over, and everything he had worked for would be lost.

Itachi and Sasuke approached the house, their expressions serious. Naruto's mind raced. He needed to stay hidden, but he also needed to hear what Hinata's sister had seen.

As the Uchihas knocked on the door and were let in, Naruto shifted his position on the roof, trying to get a better angle. He watched as they spoke with Hanabi, their presence both intimidating and reassuring.

Sasuke, was always the more impetuous of the two, glanced up and noticed a shadow on the rooftop. His sharp eyes narrowed as he recognized the silhouette. "Itachi, there's someone on the roof."

Before Itachi could respond, Sasuke was already moving. "Hey! You up there, stop!"

Naruto's heart raced. He knew he couldn't stay hidden any longer. He bolted from his position, leaping to the next rooftop. Sasuke was right behind him, his agility and determination driving him forward.

"Stop right there, Shino!" Sasuke shouted, his voice cutting through the rain.

Naruto glanced back briefly, seeing the fierce determination in Sasuke's eyes. He knew he couldn't let himself be caught. He pushed himself harder, leaping over gaps between buildings, the rain-soaked rooftops slick and dangerous.

The chase through the city was intense. Naruto moved with the precision of a seasoned predator, but Sasuke was relentless. The rain poured down, creating a treacherous path as they jumped from building to building.

Sasuke's shouts echoed through the night, each one filled with determination. "You can't escape, Shino! We'll catch you!"

Naruto's mind raced as he tried to think of a way to lose Sasuke without leading him back to his apartment. He needed to buy time, to figure out his next move. As he leapt across a particularly wide gap, he felt his foot slip slightly, but he regained his balance just in time.

Sasuke was right behind him, his eyes locked onto Naruto's form. "Give it up, Shino! You're cornered!"

Naruto knew he had to act fast. He took a sharp turn, darting down a narrow alley and using the walls to propel himself upwards onto a taller building. The move was risky, but it gave him a slight lead.

As Naruto reached the top of a particularly tall building, he realized he couldn't keep running. He turned to face Sasuke, his eyes burning with determination behind the mask.

Sasuke skidded to a halt a few feet away, rain dripping from his hair and clothes. "Why are you running, Shino? What are you hiding?"

Naruto's voice was steady but filled with intensity. "I'm looking for the truth. For justice."

Sasuke's eyes narrowed. "Justice? You think you can find it by terrorizing people?"

Naruto clenched his fists. "I'm not the one terrorizing. I'm trying to stop the real monsters."

Sasuke stepped forward, his stance ready for a fight. "Then prove it. Stop hiding behind that mask and face me."

Without another word, Naruto leapt at Sasuke, his kagune unfurling in a burst of energy. Sasuke met him head on, drawing his quinque with practiced precision.

The clash was swift and fierce. Naruto's kagune lashed out, meeting Sasuke's quinque in a shower of sparks. They moved with a deadly grace, each attack and counterattack a testament to their skill and determination.

Sasuke pushed forward, his eyes burning with intensity. "You can't escape, Shino. You're only making it worse for yourself."

Naruto dodged a strike, his movements fluid and controlled. "I'm not the enemy. You have to understand that."

As the fight continued; each blow exchanged with increasing ferocity. Rain poured down, mixing with the sweat and blood of the combatants. Despite the intensity of the battle, there was a sense of respect between them, a recognition of each other's strength and resolve.

As the fight reached its peak, Naruto saw an opening. He dodged Sasuke's next attack, using his kagune to propel himself backwards into the shadows. Sasuke lunged forward, but Naruto was already gone, disappearing into the night.

Sasuke stood at the edge of the rooftop, frustration evident on his face. He scanned the surrounding buildings, but there was no sign of Shino.

"Damn it," Sasuke muttered, sheathing his quinque. He knew the trail had gone cold, at least for now.

Naruto continued moving through the city until he was sure he had lost Sasuke. He then made his way back to his apartment, careful to avoid any patrols or curious onlookers. When he finally arrived, he found Rize waiting for him, her eyes filled with worry.

"Did you find anything?" she asked, her voice tense.

Naruto removed his mask, his expression grim. "Hinata's sister saw something the night Hinata was killed. She saw a girl near their house. But the CCG is closing in. They almost caught me."

Rize's eyes widened with fear and realization. "We need to be more careful. If they find out who you are..."

Naruto nodded, his resolve hardening. "I know. But we're getting closer to the truth. We have to keep pushing forward."

The rain had finally stopped by the time dawn broke, casting a pale light over the city. Naruto woke early, the events of the previous night still weighing heavily on his mind. He knew what he had to do next, and it wouldn't be easy. Today, he would face Hinata's family, hoping to learn more about the girl Hinata's sister had seen.

Naruto dressed in simple clothes, trying to appear as unthreatening as possible. He took a deep breath before leaving his apartment, glancing at Rize who was still asleep on the couch. She stirred slightly but didn't wake. He knew he had to do this alone.

The walk to Hinata's house felt longer than usual, each step a reminder of the weight of his mission. When he finally reached the familiar street, his heart pounded in his chest. He approached the door slowly, trying to gather his thoughts and calm his nerves.

He knocked gently, hoping not to startle anyone. After a moment, the door opened, revealing Hinata's mother, her face lined with grief and fatigue.

"Mrs. Hyuga," Naruto said softly, bowing his head slightly. "I'm sorry to bother you, but I need to speak with Hanabi. It's important."

Mrs. Hyuga looked at him with weary eyes but nodded. "Naruto, isn't it? You were Hinata's friend. Come in."

He followed her into the house, his heart aching at the sight of the familiar living room, now filled with an overwhelming sense of loss. Hanabi, a girl of about twelve, was sitting on the couch, her eyes red from crying.

"Thank you," Naruto said quietly to Mrs. Tanaka before turning to the younger girl. "Hi, I'm Naruto. I was Hinata's friend. Can we talk for a moment?"

The girl nodded, wiping her eyes. "Okay."

Naruto sat down across from her, trying to appear as calm and reassuring as possible. "I heard you saw something the night Hinata… the night she died. You mentioned seeing a girl. Can you tell me more about her?"

The girl sniffled, her voice trembling. "I saw her through the window. She had purple long hair and was acting strange. She was just standing there, looking at our house. I thought it was weird, but then I went back to bed. I didn't think much of it until... until later."

Naruto's mind raced. "Did you see her face? Was there anything else you noticed about her?"

The girl shook her head. "No, it was dark, and she was far away. But she looked young, maybe a teenager."

Naruto nodded, piecing together the information. A girl with long purple hair, possibly a teenager. It wasn't much, but it was a start. He needed to find this girl and figure out her connection to Hinata's death.

As he was about to ask another question, Hinata's sister hesitated, as if she remembered something. "There was one more thing... I remember her eyes. They looked strange, almost like they were glowing."

Naruto's heart skipped a beat. Glowing eyes were a common trait among ghouls, especially when they were hungry or excited. A memory flashed in his mind—Rize, her eyes glowing with a mix of hunger and satisfaction.

His mind whirled as he tried to make sense of it. Rize had long purple hair, she was often out at night, and she had the ability to blend in with humans. The pieces of the puzzle started to fit together, and the realization hit him like a punch to the gut.

"Thank you," Naruto said, his voice tight with barely suppressed emotion. "You've been very helpful."

The girl nodded, sensing his change in demeanor. "I hope you find out who did this."

Naruto managed a tight smile. "I will. I promise."

He left the house, the weight of his discovery pressing down on him. His eyes hardened with pain and anger as he walked away, the truth settling in. Rize, the person he had trusted, the person he had shared his life with, was responsible for Hinata's death.

By the time he reached his apartment, Naruto's resolve was firm. He couldn't let his personal fee lings get in the way of justice. Hinata deserved that much, and so did her family.

When he entered the apartment, Rize was awake, looking at him with curiosity and concern. "Did you find out anything?" she asked.

Naruto's eyes met hers, filled with a mixture of sadness and fury. "Yes, I did."

Rize's expression faltered slightly. "What did you find?"

Naruto took a deep breath, trying to keep his voice steady. "I found out who was responsible for Hinata's death."

Rize's eyes widened, and for a brief moment, Naruto saw a flicker of fear. "Who?"

Naruto's voice was cold, almost unrecognizable to himself. "You, Rize. It was you."

The room fell silent, the tension palpable. Rize's face twisted into a mixture of shock and something darker. "Naruto, I—"

Before she could finish, Naruto lunged at her, grabbing her by the collar and slamming her against the wall. The force of the impact sent a shudder through the room.

"This is what Hinata felt," Naruto growled, his voice shaking with anger. "The pain, the feeling of not being strong enough."

Rize gasped for breath, her eyes widening in surprise and a hint of fear. But then, slowly, a grin spread across her face. "This is the Naruto I know. The killer inside you."

Naruto's grip tightened around her neck, his eyes blazing with a mix of fury and sorrow. "You betrayed me. You took her life and lied to me."

Rize's kagune began to emerge, but she held back, the look in Naruto's eyes stopping her. "You don't understand, Naruto. I did what I had to."

"You didn't have to kill her," Naruto spat, his voice raw with emotion. "You could have chosen a different path."

Rize's grin widened, a twisted sort of admiration in her eyes. "This is why I love you, Naruto. This fire, this rage. You're not as different from me as you think."

Naruto's eyes hardened even further. "I'm nothing like you."

He raised his hand, ready to strike, but hesitated. The memories of their shared past, the bond they had once had, flashed through his mind. He couldn't bring himself to deliver the final blow.

Rize saw the hesitation and took advantage of it. With a swift move, she pushed him back, her kagune fully extended now. "You're strong, Naruto. But you're not ready to kill me."

Naruto stood there, panting, his eyes filled with conflict. "I will stop you, Rize. One way or another, I will stop you."

Rize stepped closer, her smile fading into a more serious expression. "Then do it. Show me the strength of the Naruto I know. The one who doesn't hold back."

Naruto clenched his fists, his resolve firming. "This isn't over, Rize."

With that, he turned and left the apartment, leaving Rize standing there, her grin returning. As he stepped into the night, Naruto felt a mixture of heartbreak and determination. The path ahead was clear, Rize had to be stopped, no matter what it took.

The next day, Naruto found himself standing in front of Anteiku. The sign on the door read "Closed," but he pushed it open anyway, needing to speak with someone who could help him make sense of the turmoil inside him. The warm, familiar scent of coffee greeted him as he stepped inside, the quiet atmosphere a stark contrast to the chaos in his mind.

Inside, he saw Kaya and Enji, two ghouls he had come to understand and respect. They looked up in surprise at his sudden entrance but nodded in greeting. Before they could say anything, Touka and Yoshimura emerged from the back, their expressions curious and slightly concerned.

"Naruto," Yoshimura said, his voice calm and steady. "I didn't expect to see you back so soon. Is everything alright?"

Naruto took a deep breath, his emotions a storm beneath his composed exterior. "I found out who killed Hinata. It was Rize."

A heavy silence filled the room, the weight of his words sinking in. Touka's eyes widened in shock, while Yoshimura's expression remained thoughtful and serious.

Naruto's voice trembled slightly as he continued, "I don't know what to do. She must be stopped, but I can't... I can't kill her. She's too close to me. I can't imagine a life without her."

Yoshimura stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder. "I understand your pain, Naruto. It's never easy when someone we care about betrays us in such a profound way. But you must also understand the danger she poses, not just to you, but to everyone around her."

Naruto nodded, his eyes filled with turmoil. "I know. But how can I stop her without... without killing her?"

Touka, who had been listening quietly, stepped closer. "There might be a way. We need to think of a solution that doesn't involve killing. Maybe we can contain her or find a way to make her understand the consequences of her actions."

Yoshimura nodded in agreement. "Touka is right. There might be other ways to deal with Rize, but it will require strength and resolve. Are you willing to face that challenge, Naruto?"

Naruto's eyes hardened with determination. "Yes. I want to stop her, but I don't want to lose her completely. She needs to understand what she's done."

Yoshimura smiled gently. "That's a difficult path, but it's a noble one. We'll help you, Naruto. Together, we can find a way to stop Rize without resorting to killing her."

Naruto felt a wave of relief wash over him. He wasn't alone in this struggle. With the support of his friends and allies at Anteiku, he felt a renewed sense of purpose.

"Thank you," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I couldn't do this without you."

Kaya and Enji stepped forward, offering their support. "We're with you, Naruto," Kaya said. "Whatever you need, we'll be there."

Enji nodded in agreement. "We'll find a way to stop Rize together."

Touka placed a hand on Naruto's arm, her expression firm but compassionate. "We'll start by gathering information on her movements and finding a way to confront her. But you must be prepared for anything, Naruto. This won't be easy."

Naruto nodded, his resolve strengthening. "I understand. I'm ready to do whatever it takes to stop her, without losing myself in the process."

Yoshimura patted Naruto on the back, his eyes filled with approval. "You're stronger than you know, Naruto. With our help, you'll find the way."

As Naruto left Anteiku, he felt a sense of hope amidst the despair. The path ahead was still uncertain, but with his friends by his side, he knew he could face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, they would find a way to stop Rize and bring peace to the chaos that had consumed their lives.

For Hinata, for her family, and for the future, Naruto would see justice served. The dawn of a new resolve had given way to a brighter day, one filled with hope and the promise of redemption.

While Naruto was seeking guidance at Anteiku, Rize was on her phone, texting with a new friend she had recently met through Naruto—Ken Kaneki. She had found an unexpected connection with Kaneki, his quiet demeanor and love for books intriguing her in ways she hadn't anticipated. They had exchanged numbers, and their conversations had quickly become a regular part of her day.

As she sat in a quiet corner of her apartment, Rize smiled at the latest message from Kaneki. They had been discussing their favourite books, and she was enjoying the simplicity of their interaction.

Kaneki: "I just finished 'The Metamorphosis.' Have you read it?"

Rize: "Yes, it's one of my favourites. The transformation theme is fascinating."

Kaneki: "It really is. I'd love to hear more about what you think. Maybe we could talk more in person?"

Rize's smile widened. She had been hoping he would suggest meeting up. She took a deep breath, her fingers hovering over the keyboard as she carefully chose her words, masking her true intentions with a facade of shyness and charm.

Rize: "I'd like that too. How about this weekend?"

Kaneki: "That sounds great. Should Naruto come too?"

Rize hesitated, crafting her next message with deliberate care. She needed to get Kaneki alone, without arousing his suspicion.

Rize: "Actually, I'd prefer if it was just the two of us. I... I have a small crush on you, Kaneki."

Kaneki's reply came almost instantly, and she could almost sense his shyness through the screen.

Kaneki: "I... I'd really like that too, Rize. Let's go out together this weekend."

Rize felt a thrill of excitement, but it wasn't the innocent kind. Her mind was already calculating how to get Kaneki into a situation where she could easily overpower him. She texted back, her fingers trembling slightly, but not from nerves—from anticipation.

Rize: "It's a date then. See you this weekend."

Kaneki: "I can't wait."

Rize put down her phone, a predatory smile spreading across her face. For the first time in a long while, she felt genuinely excited. The prospect of spending time with Kaneki, someone so trusting and innocent, was a comforting thought—not because she cared for him, but because he represented an easy meal.

The weekend approached, and Rize meticulously planned their date, ensuring it would lead to a secluded area where she could strike without interruption. She wanted to make sure everything was perfect for her, that the opportunity to feed was seamless.

As she prepared for the date, she maintained her facade of shyness and interest, texting Kaneki sweet messages and discussing books and movies. She wanted him to feel comfortable, to trust her completely.

The path ahead for both Naruto and Rize was fraught with uncertainty and danger. As Naruto prepared to confront the reality of Rize's actions, Rize continued her charade with Kaneki, creating a complex web of deception and manipulation that would ultimately lead to tragedy.

For now, Rize allowed herself to bask in the thrill of the hunt, masking her true intentions behind a veneer of charm and innocence. Little did Kaneki know, he was being led into a trap from which there might be no escape.

The next day, Naruto sat at Anteiku, his mind still reeling from the previous day's revelations. He had shared his burden with Yoshimura, Touka, Kaya, and Enji, and they had offered their support and guidance. The weight of what lay ahead was immense, but knowing he had allies made it more bearable.

As they continued their conversation on the second level, the door to Anteiku opened, and two figures stepped inside a woman with kind eyes and a young girl who seemed shy and withdrawn. Yoshimura looked up and smiled warmly.

"Ryouko, Hinami, welcome," Yoshimura said, his voice gentle. "Come in, there's someone I'd like you to meet."

Naruto stood as Yoshimura introduced them. "Naruto, this is Ryouko Fueguchi and her daughter, Hinami. They've been through a lot recently."

Naruto bowed slightly. "It's nice to meet you both."

Ryouko returned the bow, her eyes showing a hint of sadness but also strength. "It's nice to meet you too, Naruto."

Hinami, hiding slightly behind her mother, peeked out with curious eyes. Naruto could see the pain and shyness in her demeanor, and he felt a pang of empathy. He wanted to help her feel at ease.

He crouched down to Hinami's level and offered her a warm smile. "Hey, Hinami, do you like jokes?"

Hinami's eyes widened slightly, and she nodded shyly.

Naruto grinned. "Why did the scarecrow become a successful ghoul investigator?"

Hinami blinked, her curiosity piqued. "Why?"

"Because he was outstanding in his field!" Naruto said, delivering the punchline with a playful expression.

Hinami giggled softly, her shyness momentarily forgotten. Ryouko smiled, her eyes softening as she saw her daughter smile for the first time in what felt like ages.

"Thank you, Naruto," Ryouko said, her voice filled with gratitude. "It's been hard on her since... since her father's death."

Naruto nodded, understanding the weight of her words. "I'm glad I could make her smile. If there's anything I can do to help, please let me know."

Yoshimura watched the interaction with approval. "Naruto, Ryouko and Hinami are part of our family here at Anteiku. They've faced many hardships, but we do our best to support each other."

Naruto felt a sense of belonging as he looked around at the faces of those who had become his allies. He knew that, together, they could face the challenges ahead. "I'll do whatever I can to help," he said sincerely.

Hinami stepped forward, her shyness slowly fading. "Thank you, Naruto. I like your joke."

Naruto smiled warmly. "I'm glad. I'll have more jokes ready for you next time."

As they continued to talk, the bond between them grew stronger. Naruto found solace in the company of those who understood his struggles, and Hinami found a new friend in Naruto, someone who could bring a bit of light into her life.

The atmosphere in Anteiku grew more comfortable, Naruto decided it was time to share his plans with the others. He gathered everyone around the table, his expression serious.

"Rize has been moving a lot recently," Naruto began, looking at each of them. "I think we can get her when she goes hunting this weekend."

Yoshimura nodded thoughtfully. "We need to plan this carefully. Rize is dangerous, and we don't want any collateral damage."

Touka crossed her arms, her eyes hard. "So, what's the plan?"

Naruto took a deep breath. "We know she likes to hunt alone, and she's been targeting specific areas. We can use that to our advantage. But there's something else we need to consider—there are two doves in the area."

Kaya frowned. "Doves? You mean CCG investigators?"

Naruto nodded. "Yes, Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha. They're highly skilled and dangerous. We need to make sure they don't get involved. If they catch wind of this, it could get out of hand."

Yoshimura looked thoughtful. "Do you have any idea how we can divert their attention?"

Naruto hesitated before answering. "We could create a distraction. Something that draws them away from the area where we'll confront Rize."

Enji spoke up, his voice steady. "I can help with that. I know a few places where we can stage a diversion."

Yoshimura nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a good plan. We'll need to coordinate carefully to ensure everything goes smoothly."

Naruto glanced at Hinami, who was listening intently. "Hinami, I need you to stay here with your mother. It's too dangerous for you to be involved."

Hinami nodded, understanding the seriousness of the situation. "Okay, Naruto. Just be careful."

Ryouko placed a comforting hand on her daughter's shoulder. "We'll be safe here. Just promise us you'll come back."

Naruto smiled reassuringly. "I promise."

Yoshimura turned to Touka and Kaya. "You two will support Naruto in confronting Rize. We need to be swift and decisive."

Touka nodded, determination in her eyes. "We'll make sure she doesn't get away."

Kaya added, "We've got your back, Naruto."

As they continued to discuss the details of their plan, Naruto felt a sense of solidarity. They were all in this together, united by a common goal. He knew the risks were high, but he also knew they had the strength and determination to succeed.

The weekend approached quickly, and the tension in the air was palpable. Naruto spent the days leading up to the confrontation preparing mentally and physically. He knew this was his chance to stop Rize and bring some semblance of justice for Hinata and all the others she had harmed.

When the night of the hunt finally arrived, Naruto met with Touka, Kaya, Enji, and Yoshimura at Anteiku. They went over their plan one last time, ensuring everyone knew their roles.

Enji left first to create the diversion, hoping to draw the Uchiha brothers away from the area. Meanwhile, Naruto, Touka, and Kaya headed towards Rize's usual hunting grounds, their movements careful and silent.

Naruto's heart pounded in his chest as they neared the area. He could feel the weight of the moment, the culmination of all their efforts and planning. He glanced at Touka and Kaya, both of whom were focused and ready.

"This is it," Naruto whispered. "Let's end this."

As they moved into position, the night was filled with a tense silence. They knew Rize would be there soon, and they had to be ready for anything. Naruto felt a mix of emotions, anger, sadness, determination all fuelling his resolve.

Rize had successfully lured Kaneki into a false sense of security. The weekend arrived, and she met him at a small café near the edge of the city. Kaneki was nervous but excited, his shy demeanor making Rize's task all the easier. They spent the early part of the evening talking about books and life, their conversation flowing naturally.

Rize smiled charmingly at Kaneki, playing the part of the interested date perfectly. "So, Kaneki, would you like to take a walk? There's a beautiful spot I know nearby."

Kaneki nodded eagerly, "Sure, Rize. I'd love to."

They walked together, the streets gradually becoming more deserted as they moved away from the bustling city center. Rize led him to a quiet, isolated area, her heart pounding with anticipation not from fear or excitement about the date, but from the thrill of the hunt.

As they reached a dark alley, Rize's demeanor subtly shifted. She stopped and turned to face Kaneki, her eyes gleaming with an unnatural light.

"Kaneki," she said softly, stepping closer. "There's something I've been wanting to show you."

Kaneki blinked, confused. "What is it?"

In an instant, Rize's expression twisted into one of predatory hunger. Her kagune emerged, a deadly and beautiful sight, and before Kaneki could react, she lunged forward, sinking her teeth into his shoulder.

Kaneki screamed in pain and shock, realizing too late what was happening. "R-Rize, what are you—?"

She laughed, a chilling sound that echoed in the empty alley. "I'm a ghoul, Kaneki. And you're my prey."

Rize's kagune stabbed into Kaneki's abdomen, causing him to cry out in agony. The world around him blurred as he struggled to comprehend the betrayal and the excruciating pain.

On the rooftops nearby, Naruto, Touka, and Kaya were moving into position for their confrontation with Rize. They heard the scream, and Naruto's heart sank. "That sounded like Kaneki!"

They rushed towards the source of the noise, and Naruto arrived just in time to see Rize stab Kaneki. He opened his mouth to shout, but before he could, a figure emerged from the shadows. The man moved with incredible speed and strength, breaking the steel beams above with a powerful strike.

The beams came crashing down onto Rize, pinning her beneath their weight. Naruto screamed out her name, "RIZE!" and leaped down from the rooftop, landing near the scene of the disaster.

Kaneki lay on the ground, bleeding and barely conscious. The man who had caused the beams to fall was already gone, disappearing into the night as quickly as he had appeared. Naruto ran to Rize, his heart pounding with a mix of fear and anger.

"Rize!" he shouted again, trying to move the beams, but they were too heavy. She was crushed beneath them, her body twisted and broken.

Touka and Kaya arrived moments later, taking in the horrific scene. Touka moved quickly to Kaneki's side, assessing his injuries. "He's still alive, but barely. We need to get him to a hospital."

Naruto's eyes were filled with tears as he looked at Rize, her once vibrant and deadly form now lifeless. Despite everything, despite the betrayal and the pain, he couldn't help but feel a deep, aching sorrow. She had been a part of his life for so long, and now she was gone.

"We have to go," Kaya said urgently, pulling Naruto away from the wreckage. "We can't stay here. The doves will be here soon."

Naruto looked back at Rize, his heart breaking. He didn't want to leave her, but he knew Kaya was right. If they were caught by the CCG, it would be over for all of them.

"Naruto, we have to go now!" Touka insisted, her voice urgent.

Naruto nodded, his resolve hardening. He took one last look at Rize before turning away, helping Touka and Kaya carry Kaneki to a safer location where they could leave him without being seen. They moved quickly, disappearing into the night, leaving behind the remnants of a tragic and violent confrontation.

As they made their way to safety, Naruto couldn't shake the feeling of loss that weighed heavily on his heart. Rize was gone, but the pain and the memories would linger. He had lost a friend and a betrayer, and the world seemed a little darker for it.

For Kaneki, this night would mark the beginning of a new and terrifying journey. But for Naruto, it was a night of heartbreak and resolution—a reminder of the fine line between love and hate, trust, and betrayal. The path ahead was still fraught with challenges, but with his allies by his side, he knew he could face whatever came next.

Chapter 6 – The Beginning After The End

A/N

That's the end of this chapter, so it's time to address some questions.

Why kill Hinata? - I felt it suited the Tokyo Ghoul world, which is often marked by tragedy.

As for who will accept Naruto - It's more about when Naruto will accept who he is.

Currently, Rize is like an antagonist, but in time, maybe they will find peace. Regarding why Naruto seemed slow, that's on me. I need to revise the dialogue in that part of the story.

I'm also toying with the idea of pairing Naruto with Eto, she's a character I enjoy writing about.

Thanks for reading.

Until next time,

byebye!