Chapter 13 The tanuki brother
Gaara was genuinely perplexed by the fox boy's unexpected affection towards him. The way Naruto smiled and called him
"Little brother" stirred a mix of happiness and confusion within Gaara. It seemed too good to be true, a cruel trick, perhaps. As these thoughts raced through his mind, a sharp pain seared through his skull, a familiar torment as the demon inside him clawed at his sanity.
"What's wrong?" Naruto asked, noticing Gaara's painful reaction. Concern etched across his face, he gently placed Gaara on the ground.
"It seems my little brother is torturing the boy." Kurama remarked, his tone dripping with disdain.
"Always been a vindictive pain in the ass." Naruto nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. With practiced ease, he placed a paper seal on Gaara's forehead. The seal worked its magic, silencing the relentless voices that commanded Gaara to slaughter everyone around him. Voices that kept him awake for days, threatening to kill anyone he might dare to love. But he never loved anyone, right? Gaara felt a gentle hand pat his head and looked up into Naruto's reassuring blue eyes.
"Little bro, just relax. Your big brother's here. Let's head to my place." Naruto said with a warm smile. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, Gaara felt a flicker of warmth in his heart. Temari, Gaara's sister, stepped forward, arms crossed and eyes blazing with protective fury.
"My brother isn't going anywhere with you, and stop calling yourself his sibling." she snapped, her voice dripping with authority. Naruto ignored her, turning to walk towards Fuka, who stood protectively near the children. Sensing danger, Kankuro, the puppet master, stepped forward. Before he could react, Naruto appeared in front of him, grabbing his throat and slamming his head through a nearby fence. The sound of splintering wood echoed as Kankuro's face was left bloodied and embedded with shards.
"Listen carefully." Naruto growled, his voice icy. "If you take another step closer to my apprentice, I will kill you. I'm taking Gaara now. The only way I'll allow you to accompany us is if you get on your knees and beg for my forgiveness." The coldness in his voice was unyielding as he tightened his grip on Kankuro, ensuring he was fully conscious. Kankuro, realizing the severity of the situation, nodded submissively. Naruto released him and reappeared next to Gaara.
"Let's get some introductions out of the way. I'm Naruto Uzumaki." he said softly, his tone now gentle and inviting. Gaara, nervous but intrigued, took a moment before responding.
"I am... Gaara of the Sand." His voice was monotone, his emotions carefully masked. Naruto ruffled Gaara's hair with a smile. Fuka, eager to meet Naruto's newfound brother, spoke up.
"I'm Fuka, the fox boy's girlfriend. So, Gaara, what's your favorite food?" Gaara, taken aback by her kindness, hesitated. People usually fled from him in fear, but these people seemed genuinely interested in him. Even his own siblings never bothered to ask him simple questions.
"I like salty lizard tails." he finally responded, his voice betraying a hint of excitement. Naruto grinned and disappeared, reappearing moments later with two lizard tails. The sand siblings stared in shock, seeing Naruto holding the rare delicacies from their homeland. Gaara took one, holding it reverently.
"How much do I owe you?" he asked, confusion lacing his tone. "Little bro, it's on me. Now let's head back to my place so we can relax." Naruto said cheerfully, his smile broadening. He couldn't hide his joy at having found a kindred spirit. Gaara glanced back at his siblings, who were too stunned to react. He knew he shouldn't go, but he felt a warmth he didn't want to lose, like a campfire on a cold night. He decided to stay with Naruto for as long as he could. As they walked towards Naruto's forest home, the atmosphere gradually lightened. The group moved with a newfound sense of camaraderie, the tension from earlier dissipating. Naruto, Gaara, and Fuka led the way.
Gaara and Naruto began conversing animatedly about potential activities they could engage in once they reached Naruto's home. Gaara, after a moment of thoughtful silence, suggested building a sandcastle. He admitted, in a rare moment of vulnerability, that he had never had the opportunity to build one for anyone when he was younger. Naruto's eyes lit up with excitement, thrilled to see Gaara taking such an enthusiastic initiative.
"That sounds like a great idea, Gaara! Let's all build sandcastles and have some fun." Naruto declared, his voice full of energy. "But there's one condition: we can only use our hands, no jutsu allowed." Gaara accepted the terms with a genuine smile, although it quickly faded as he tried to conceal his excitement behind a mask of indifference. The group continued their journey, the anticipation of the sandcastle-building competition adding a buoyant spring to their steps. As they traveled, the sand siblings met at their predetermined rendezvous point and relayed the recent events to their sensei, Baki.
Baki was livid upon hearing about Gaara's deviation from orders. He understood that the monster within Gaara couldn't be tamed and had decided to let it be. He instructed the other two to be cautious and gather as much information as possible on Naruto. Both siblings agreed, setting off to scan the village for any valuable intel. Meanwhile, deep in the woods, Naruto, Gaara, and their friends commenced their sandcastle-building competition. Fuka, lacking any real skill in sandcastle construction, barely managed to create a crude structure that looked more like a lump of sand.
Naruto fared slightly better; he attempted to sculpt a fox, but the end result resembled a misshapen dog. Konohamaru's team, too, struggled as their grand castle repeatedly collapsed, thanks in part to Udon's incessant sneezing. In stark contrast, Gaara was effortlessly sweeping the competition. His sandcastle was a towering structure, impressive and intricate, large enough for someone to stand inside. He meticulously crafted each detail with his bare hands, not resorting to any jutsu. Naruto watched in awe, impressed by Gaara's sheer skill and dedication. After an hour, the sandcastles were complete. No one contested the result; Gaara was the undeniable winner. Naruto, beaming with pride, announced.
"Alright, Gaara! As the winner, you get the grand prize!" He handed Gaara more lizard tails, causing Gaara's eyes to light up with genuine excitement.
"Thank you, Naruto. This means a lot to me." Gaara said, his voice tinged with uncharacteristic warmth. Fuka, brushing sand off her hands, laughed.
"Well, it's clear who the true sand master is here." Just then, Sarada returned, struggling with a mountain of clothing. Kaguya strolled beside her, not holding anything, bouncing on her feet with each step, her light, airy jumps punctuated by her inevitable falls back to the ground.
Kaguya pouted, irritation clear on her delicate features. She was frustrated that she couldn't fly as she once did, even though she couldn't quite remember how she had achieved it before. Her feet ached from walking—something she had never experienced since she always levitated, never once touching the ground beneath her. Naruto noticed Sarada struggling and moved closer to help Sarada, creating a series of paper clones to carry the pile of clothes. The clones picked up the garments with effortless grace and began floating in the air. Kaguya's eyes sparkled with excitement at the sight of the flying clones. She hurried over to Naruto, tugging at his shirt and pointing eagerly at the floating figures.
"Oh, I see. You've been trying to fly this whole time." Naruto said, finally understanding her predicament. Kaguya nodded vigorously, her excitement palpable, but she remained silent, her usual stoic expression softening.
"I'm sorry, but I can't teach you that. It's a technique specific to my clan, and you'd need to become one of my lovers before I could share it with you." Naruto explained, a hint of regret in his voice. Without hesitation, Kaguya shrugged and, to everyone's shock, pulled Naruto in for a kiss. Her lips were soft and warm against his, catching him completely off guard.
The onlookers' eyes widened in astonishment. When she pulled away, she gave him a confident thumbs up, her usually pale cheeks tinged with a light blush. Naruto's mind was reeling, struggling to process what had just happened. Sensing his confusion, Kaguya leaned in and kissed him again, more fervently this time. Fuka started cheering them on, her voice loud and encouraging, while Sarada chastised her for being so lewd. They broke apart once more, leaving Naruto both happy and bewildered.
"Yeah, I guess I'll teach you." he responded, still trying to comprehend the situation but feeling an odd mix of happiness and confusion. Kaguya smiled contentedly, her demeanor returning to its usual composed state. Sarada, meanwhile, looked extremely jealous at the sight of Naruto kissing another girl. Her lips pressed into a thin line, and her eyes bore into Kaguya with an intensity that was hard to ignore. Gaara, observing the scene, approached his brother with a concerned expression.
"Brother, I don't think cheating on your girlfriend is a good idea. At least, that's what I've read." Gaara offered, his voice tinged with concern. Naruto's face turned crimson, feeling the sting of his brother's chastisement.
"It's not like that. I'm trying to rebuild my clan, so it's not cheating, and I've informed everyone about it." he stammered, trying not to sound like a philanderer. Gaara narrowed his eyes but decided to trust Naruto's words.
"By the way, stay away from my biological sister." he added, sounding protective. But then, reconsidering, he said.
"Actually, if you were to marry her, you'd be my brother-in-law. On second thought, go after my sister. You have my full permission." His tone was monotone, but there was a hint of persuasion behind it. Naruto stood there, his mind reeling, wondering if he was being pimped out by Gaara or if he was, indeed, becoming a man-whore. Fuka, noticing Naruto's bewildered expression, approached and wrapped her arms around him.
"Don't worry, Naruto. We understand. And besides, you can't help being irresistible." she teased, planting a kiss on his cheek. Naruto sighed, feeling a mix of relief and further confusion. "Thanks, Fuka. I just hope I can manage all of this without losing my mind."
They all began to laugh, except for Kaguya, who was still pouting, impatiently waiting for her flying lessons. The rest of the day was filled with the comforting bustle of cooking and eating together. Kaguya's pout softened when Naruto started feeding her, though Sarada's jealousy was evident, but she chose to remain silent for now. As the makeshift party wound down, Naruto made sure everyone got to bed safely. He led Gaara to a spare room, and the red-haired boy expressed his gratitude.
"Thanks, Big Brother. I haven't had this much fun ever." Gaara said sincerely, his genuine smile illuminating his face. Naruto ruffled his hair and smiled back.
"Don't plan on it stopping soon. Now, I think it's time you got some sleep, little brother. Besides, we have to talk tomorrow. All four of us." Naruto said, closing the door behind him. Gaara, though confused, decided to sleep it off, finding peace as the voices in his head were quiet for the first time. Naruto made his way to his room, where Kaguya and Fuka were waiting. As he walked through the hallway, Sarada stood there in her pajamas, revealing a bit of skin. She stepped forward, placing a hand on Naruto's cheek.
"Remember you owe me a favor? I want you to close your eyes." she commanded, her red eyes glowing in the dim light, enhancing her beauty. Naruto blushed like an innocent boy and complied. She moved closer, her lips just inches away from his. But she hesitated, questioning her actions. She wanted to become Hokage, not just another girl in Naruto's clan. The conflict in her heart raged. She wanted the warmth and safety Naruto provided, but she feared becoming dependent on a love that might vanish if she found a way back to her own world. She stepped away, pressing her back against the wall and curling up into a ball.
"What am I doing?" she whispered, feeling the world spin. She questioned whether she could accept this world, knowing she couldn't see her real parents again. Naruto here made her feel secure, but he wasn't the one who had held her when she was young. Tears started falling down her face. Was she so desperate for reassurance that she would use Naruto? The Fox boy opened his eyes and saw her crying. He sat next to her, placing his arm around her shoulders.
"I don't know what you're going through, but I'm here if you need to talk." he said gently, his sincerity evident. Sarada leaned closer, placing her head on his chest.
"Naruto, if I became your lover and I found a way home, what would you do?" she asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty. Naruto smiled warmly, not skipping a beat.
"I will cherish you until the moment you leave. And I would look back at our memories with a warm smile." he reassured her, tracing his hand along her face and wiping away the water droplets on her eyes. She burst into tears, her heart racing. She moved closer and kissed him on the lips. Their tongues danced as the kiss deepened. He shifted, pushing her gently to the floor with him on top. They broke away, a bridge of saliva connecting their lips.
"Thank you, Naruto." she whispered, Before slowly getting up feeling her cheeks reddened. She headed to her room with a warm smile and blush. Naruto popped the question.
"Are you sure you don't want to join the rest of us in my bed?" Her face exploded into a Bread tomato.
"A kiss is one thing, but spending the night in your bed is way too much for me." she stammered, her heart racing to keep up with her emotions. They parted ways for the night, Naruto heading to his room, where he laid down between two cute girls, feeling a strange but comforting sense of contentment. The next morning, the warm rays of sunlight filtered through the windows, casting a golden hue over the cozy dining area where they all gathered for breakfast. Gaara's face lit up with genuine happiness, a rare sight for someone who had longed for a sense of family for so many years. Fuka was in charge of cooking today, moving gracefully around the kitchen as she prepared the meal. The mouthwatering aroma of freshly made rice, eggs, and miso soup filled the air, adding to the homely ambiance.
As everyone settled down to eat, Fuka noticed Sarada acting unusually jumpy. Every time Naruto approached her, Sarada would leap back as if he were contagious. Her face would flush a deep crimson, and her body would tremble slightly. Naruto, sensing the awkwardness, wore a troubled expression, worried that he might have gone too far the previous night. Fuka, keenly observant, decided it was time to address the situation.
"Oh, Sarada." Fuka called out sweetly, masking her true intentions with a gentle tone.
"Can you help me in the kitchen for a moment? I need some extra hands. And darling." She turned to Naruto with a soft smile. "enjoy your time with your brother." Sarada, grateful for the excuse, quickly made her way to the kitchen.
"Yeah, I can help you out." she replied, her voice almost as fast as her footsteps. Once they were out of earshot, Fuka moved closer to Sarada, her eyes gleaming with curiosity.
"So." she began, her voice low and conspiratorial, "how far did you go with my darling? I hope it was spicy." Sarada's face turned a vivid red as she flailed her arms in panic.
"No, no! What? Why would you say that? We just kissed, and I don't..." Her voice trailed off as she remembered the sensation of Naruto's lips on hers, her face heating up further at the vivid memory. Fuka, somewhat relieved but slightly disappointed, raised an eyebrow.
"Why are you avoiding him? It was just a kiss." she probed, noting the deepening crimson on Sarada's cheeks.
"It was my first time kissing." Sarada confessed, her voice tinged with embarrassment.
"And I just... I'm coming to terms with what I did. It was so stupid. I shouldn't have done that." Fuka let out a deep sigh, her hands skillfully continuing to prepare the meal.
"Sarada, stick by Naruto's side and give him as much love as you can. That's what I believe you should do. And I'm tired of this one step forward, two steps back nonsense. You already kissed him; you can't step back from that. So, enjoy each other." she advised, her tone firm and motherly. Sarada considered Fuka's words. She knew her friend was right; she shouldn't punish Naruto just because she felt uneasy. After all, she had initiated the kiss. Naruto was only comforting her, and she had let herself get carried away in the moment. The feelings she showed were genuine.
"Thank you, Fuka. How can I ever repay you?" Sarada asked, her voice filled with gratitude. Fuka didn't miss a beat.
"I want all of us to have a make-out session with Naruto together, and I want it to be hot and sweaty." she replied with a mischievous grin, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. Sarada was so taken aback by the sudden, bold request that her face turned an even deeper shade of red. She stepped back from the kitchen, out of sight, and shouted, "Pervert!" at the top of her lungs, her voice echoing through the house. Fuka burst into laughter at Sarada's reaction, her amusement only heightening her interest in the scenario. She continued cooking, a playful smile lingering on her lips, while Sarada, flustered and embarrassed, tried to compose herself. The morning carried on, filled with the sounds of sizzling food, cheerful chatter, and the occasional burst of laughter, creating a scene of warmth and camaraderie that they all cherished.
As the two girls conversed in the kitchen, Naruto and Gaara were outside, engaged in a serious discussion. The sun cast a warm glow over the forest clearing, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasted with the gravity of their conversation.
"Gaara, we need to have a conversation with Shukaku and work through the issues with him." Naruto said calmly, his eyes reflecting a mixture of determination and concern. Gaara's face showed confusion, his brows furrowing as he tried to process Naruto's words.
"Shukaku? Who's that, brother?" Gaara's voice held a genuine curiosity, his gaze searching Naruto's for answers. Naruto began to explain, his tone patient and steady.
"Shukaku is a sand demon, just like the Nine-Tailed Fox, Kurama, who's inside of me. He's the One-Tail that's been sealed inside you since you were born. We need to address the problems between you two for your well-being and for your control over his power." Gaara listened intently, his eyes widening slightly as Naruto detailed the nature of the tailed beasts and the importance of forming a cooperative relationship with them. The gravity of Naruto's words sank in, and Gaara nodded slowly, understanding the necessity of this daunting task. Naruto placed his hand gently on Gaara's head, a reassuring gesture that spoke of his confidence and support.
"Hold on, Gaara. This might feel strange." he said softly, concentrating on his chakra. Gaara felt a tingling sensation, then a sudden shift as their surroundings began to morph. Moments later, they found themselves in a surreal landscape, the air thick with tension. Gaara stood before a gigantic pot, from which the sand tanuki, Shukaku, emerged, his eyes blazing with anger and frustration. The tanuki's massive head and sharp teeth created an intimidating sight as he glared down at the two humans. Nearby, Naruto stood before the colossal form of the Nine-Tailed Fox, Kurama. Kurama's nine tails swayed lazily, yet there was an underlying power in their movement. His eyes, sharp and cunning, locked onto Shukaku with a mixture of disdain and amusement. Shukaku's gruff voice shattered the silence, his tone dripping with bitterness.
"What is the meaning of this, humans, bringing me here to see my useless big brother?" he spat, his voice echoing through the mental space. Kurama rolled his eyes at Shukaku's insult, a smirk playing on his lips.
"Of course, it's the one with the least tails who talks the most, always compensating for something." Kurama retorted, his voice smooth and taunting. Shukaku growled, causing his pot to tremble ominously.
"Listen here, you fat lazy fox! Just because I have fewer tails doesn't mean I'm weaker. Your arrogance doesn't make your words true." he fired back, his eyes blazing with defiance. Kurama burst into laughter, a deep, resonant sound that seemed to vibrate through the very air.
"Really? Then why didn't you stop me when I destroyed your sandcastle, or when I used you as a makeshift hammer against our siblings? Remember that time I gave you such a beating for running your mouth? You even teamed up with several of our siblings to fight me and still lost." Kurama taunted, his voice dripping with mockery and nostalgia.
Shukaku's blood boiled as he seethed with rage, his eyes narrowing to slits as he hurled vicious insults back at Kurama. The two tailed beasts continued their heated exchange, their voices echoing through the mental landscape like clashing thunder. Amidst this chaos, Naruto, seemingly unfazed, pulled out a deck of cards from his pocket.
"Wanna play, Gaara?" he asked, glancing at his sand brother with a warm, reassuring smile. Gaara's expression softened, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Sure." he replied, appreciating the normalcy of the gesture amidst the extraordinary situation. They began playing cards, the simple act providing a moment of peace and camaraderie. As the two titans continued their verbal onslaught, Naruto and Gaara focused on their game, finding solace in each other's company. The tension between the tailed beasts faded into the background, replaced by the growing bond between their human hosts.
The scene highlighted the stark contrast between the fiery tempers of the tailed beasts and the deepening connection between Naruto and Gaara, their friendship blossoming in the midst of two titans finally caught their breath after an hour-long verbal assault. Naruto, sensing the argument had finally come to a close, stood up. The atmosphere was thick with tension, the air still crackling from the fierce exchange.
"Shukaku, since you two are done arguing, I need to say one thing. You need to work with Gaara and stop torturing him." Naruto stated firmly, his voice resonating with authority. He stood tall, his eyes locked onto the massive form of Shukaku, who towered over them both. Shukaku's eyes narrowed, a flicker of irritation crossing his face. The audacity of this human was almost amusing.
"I don't care what you have to say, human. This doesn't concern you." Shukaku shot back dismissively, his voice a low growl that echoed through the mindscape. Naruto turned his back on Shukaku and faced Kurama, a sly smile playing on his lips.
"You're right, furball. He's a lost cause. Being the only tailed beast that doesn't cooperate with his host must really suck, especially when you only have one tail." Naruto said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. He made sure to project his voice so that every word hit Shukaku like a dart. Shukaku's eyes flashed with anger, his interest piqued despite himself.
"Repeat what you said." Shukaku demanded, his voice rumbling like distant thunder. Naruto rolled his eyes dramatically, the gesture exaggerated to drive the point home.
"Wow, he's deaf and can't cooperate with his host. Man, I can't wait to tell the others." he said, a giddy smile stretching across his face as if he relished the idea. Shukaku gritted his teeth, the insult striking deep. This little human was insufferable, but the notion of being the only tailed beast unable to work with his host gnawed at his pride. It would make him appear weak, inferior to his siblings—a fate he could not accept.
"You fool! A human like you couldn't understand the training I was giving my host. After this one proved himself, I would have gladly partnered with him. Now that the cat's out of the bag and my host is worthy, I suppose we can try to work together." Shukaku lied, not wanting to appear as if he wasn't trying. He wasn't about to let this rumor spread that he was the failure among his brothers and sisters. Naruto's smile widened, seeing his plan come together. Gaara looked confused for a moment, his brows furrowing as he processed the exchange.
But then realization dawned on him—Shukaku was finally willing to put their differences aside. This was all thanks to his brother, who genuinely cared for him and had orchestrated this confrontation with cunning precision. Gaara stepped forward, his posture straight and resolute as he faced the demon inside him.
"Shukaku, I am Gaara of the Sand. It is a pleasure to meet you, and may our partnership bear fruit for our future." he spoke nobly and respectfully, his voice steady as he offered a slight bow. Shukaku stood tall, staring down at Gaara with a mixture of curiosity and begrudging respect.
"Sure, works for me." he replied, feigning disinterest. He didn't care much, but he wouldn't let his siblings, especially the Nine-Tailed Fox, get ahead of him. Naruto cut the connection, and both he and Gaara returned to the real world. The transition was swift, the mindscape dissolving around them as they opened their eyes. Gaara felt a newfound sense of peace, a calm that settled over him like a warm blanket. The demon within him was now an ally, thanks to Naruto's unwavering support and clever manipulation.
As they emerged from the mental realm, the morning sun bathed them in a golden glow, its rays filtering through the trees. The forest around them was alive with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere they had just left behind. Naruto turned to Gaara, his expression softening.
"How do you feel, little brother?" he asked, his voice gentle. Gaara took a deep breath, the weight on his chest feeling significantly lighter.
"I feel... at peace." he replied, a genuine smile spreading across his face. It was a smile that reached his eyes, one that Naruto hadn't seen before. Naruto ruffled Gaara's hair affectionately.
"Good. Now let's go join the others. We have a lot to celebrate." he said, leading Gaara back towards the house where their friends awaited. The bond between the brothers had strengthened, and the path ahead seemed a little brighter. For the first time in a long while, Gaara felt hope—a hope that his future, with the help of his brother, could be one of harmony and understanding.
After they finished eating and enjoying their meal together, the sense of camaraderie hung in the air like a warm, comforting blanket. Naruto stood, gathering the dishes, his movements fluid and efficient as he began cleaning up. The clinking of plates and running water created a soothing backdrop to the morning. Kaguya, with a slight pout on her lips, followed him, tugging gently on his sleeve.
Her eyes, usually so calm and distant, now held a spark of curiosity and determination. Naruto, sensing her presence, turned and affectionately rubbed his hand on her head, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.
"Let me finish up here, and then I'll start teaching you how to fly." he said, his voice soft and reassuring.
"It's going to take a while to learn—it took me months. So, don't get frustrated if you don't get it right the first time." Kaguya's cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink from the affection, but she nodded, her eyes alight with readiness for the challenge. Naruto, however, couldn't shake off the concern tugging at his heart. Why hasn't she spoken yet? Seeing his worried expression, Kaguya leaned in and kissed him deeply, her lips lingering against his. She made it long and drawn out, her tongue dancing with his, an intimate gesture to reassure him. Naruto blushed, pulling back just enough to murmur.
"Thank you." Kaguya smiled, her expression softening as she stepped outside to wait for him. With a playful grin, Naruto gave her a light slap on the behind, eliciting another blush from her. The simple gesture, filled with joy and mischief, underscored the happiness he felt. He finally had people who genuinely cared for him—three beautiful girlfriends, a sand brother, and the rest of Team 3. Life, he mused, couldn't be better. Once he finished the dishes, Naruto joined Kaguya outside. He began by teaching her how to infuse chakra into paper, the first step in her training. Remarkably, she picked it up quickly. Perhaps her previous memories were aiding her in mastering the jutsu. As Naruto and a clone assisted her, his senses picked up on two unfamiliar presences hiding in the forest. His well-placed alarm had been triggered. Temari and Kankuro moved cautiously through the dense woods, their conversation hushed but intense.
"Temari, do you think the rumors about Naruto are true? That he's some kind of monster?" Kankuro's voice was laced with apprehension.
"I don't know, Kankuro. There are too many contradictions. He's supposed to be dangerous, but Gaara seems to trust him even though they're just met. We need to see for ourselves." Temari replied, her eyes scanning their surroundings warily. Before they could delve deeper into their discussion, Naruto emerged from the shadows, stepping right behind them.
"Why are you here, and why are you intruding on my land?" he asked, his voice calm but carrying an undeniable edge. Startled, both Temari and Kankuro spun around to face the fox boy. Kankuro, panic-stricken, fell to his knees, begging.
"I'm sorry! We didn't mean any harm. Please don't hurt us!" The Whiskered boy looked down at him, his presence exuding an aura of dominance and authority.
"Fine. I accept your apology. Now, follow me." he said, his tone brokering no argument. As they approached Naruto's home, they saw Gaara, his face lit up with a genuine smile, building a sandcastle. He was engaged in a playful competition with Fuka, who animatedly asked him questions about him trying to learn about Naruto's new family member. Temari and Kankuro exchanged surprised glances.
"Gaara, you look... happy." Temari said, her voice filled with astonishment. Gaara looked up, his smile widening. "I am. Thanks to my leaf brother." he replied simply. Temari turned to the foxboy, her expression softening.
"Maybe the rumors were wrong." she admitted. "Naruto, I'm sorry for doubting you."
Gaara led his siblings to a quieter area within the lush forest. The sun filtered through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the ground. Birds chirped merrily, oblivious to the tense undercurrent between the siblings.
"You're right. You should apologize for doubting my true brother." Gaara said, his voice calm but firm.
"Now, what brings you two here?" Though slightly offended by his comment, Kankuro and Temari chose to overlook it for the time being. Kankuro stepped forward with a hesitant smile.
"You see, Gaara, we need to head to the rendezvous point. Baki was very upset that you wanted to go on your own." he explained gently, trying not to provoke his brother despite his friendly demeanor. Gaara placed a reassuring hand on Kankuro's shoulder, causing him to flinch involuntarily. The touch, though meant to comfort, sent a chill down Kankuro's spine.
"You don't have to worry about that." Gaara said with a cheerful smile, devoid of any malice.
"Tell him that if he interferes with my time with my brother, he won't have to worry about anything else." Kankuro felt a shiver run down his spine, finding this cheerful Gaara even more unsettling. Temari, feeling uneasy, glanced at Naruto, her mind racing with anxious thoughts. Naruto stepped closer to her, his presence steady and calming. He placed a comforting hand on her head, his touch gentle.
"Calm down." he said softly, his voice like a balm to her frayed nerves. Just then, Gaara saw an opportunity and used his sand to create a heart around Naruto and Temari. The sand shimmered in the sunlight, forming a perfect heart. Both of them blushed, clearly confused by Gaara's gesture. Naruto's whiskered cheeks turned a deep shade of crimson, while Temari's face flushed with surprise. Gaara grinned supportively, his eyes sparkling with mischief, hoping it would spark a connection between them. Kankuro, bewildered by the situation, asked.
"Are you trying to hook up our sister with a Leaf shinobi?" Ignoring his brother's question, Gaara continued to smile, confident in his plan. Temari, flustered, stepped away from the sand heart. She looked at Naruto, then back at Gaara, her emotions a tangled mess.
"Sorry if I was giving you the wrong idea." she said, trying to diffuse the situation, her voice tinged with embarrassment. For the first time since their arrival, Gaara's eyes darkened, the cheerful façade slipping away. The sand shifted ominously, wrapping around Temari's leg and slowly creeping up her thigh.
"Are you saying my brother isn't good enough for you?" he asked in a dark tone, reminiscent of his old self. His voice was low, dangerous, the playful mischief replaced by a cold seriousness. Naruto quickly intervened, flicking Gaara on the forehead with a swift, precise motion.
"Hey, put her down. You shouldn't force a girl into a relationship." he chastised, his voice firm yet understanding. Gaara, bewildered by Naruto's reprimand, released the sand from Temari's leg immediately, his eyes wide with confusion and hurt.
"Temari, please accept my apologies. I didn't mean to go that far. I was just lost in the moment, thinking you were slighting my true brother." Gaara said respectfully, bowing his head. His voice was sincere, regretful, a stark contrast to his earlier tone. Temari, still confused by the whirlwind of emotions, decided to smile, trying to brush off her discomfort.
"It's alright, Gaara. Let's just focus on what's important." she said, hoping to restore some normalcy to the situation. Her voice was steady, but her heart was still racing from the unexpected turn of events. She glanced at Naruto, who gave her a reassuring nod, his blue eyes filled with understanding and support. Gaara's face softened, the tension in his body easing.
"Thank you, Temari. I just want what's best for my brother." he said quietly, his voice filled with genuine affection. Naruto ruffled Gaara's hair affectionately, his touch light but filled with brotherly warmth.
"It's fine, you're still learning. But I think you two should leave." The fox boy spoke in a calm, yet resolute tone, his eyes steady and unyielding. Despite the tension, he maintained an aura of calm readiness, prepared to act if necessary but choosing diplomacy first. The sand siblings were taken aback by Naruto's firm dismissal. Kankuro's face twisted in anger as he stepped forward, his fists clenched and ready for a confrontation.
"How dare you tell us to leave Gaara, our brother!" he spat out, his voice thick with indignation. Gaara's reaction was swift and dangerous. His hand clenched, and the sand around him began to swirl ominously, ready to form a sand coffin for his biological brother. Naruto noticed immediately and placed a calming hand on Gaara's shoulder.
"Relax, little brother. They're not going to take you from me." he spoke softly but firmly, his touch and words a soothing balm to Gaara's rising anger. Turning his attention back to the siblings, Naruto's eyes hardened.
"You two are his blood siblings, yet you treat him like a monster. That is why you shouldn't be allowed in my forest." he continued, his voice unwavering. "But you came to check on him, so I've allowed this brief conversation. Now that time is over, please leave and check on him tomorrow." Temari and Kankuro looked like they were about to protest, but the sight of Gaara's twitching and the menacing sand around him made them think twice.
"Fine, we'll leave." Temari said, her tone laced with bitterness as she turned to walk away. Kankuro followed, his eyes never leaving Naruto, filled with a mix of confusion and fear. Naruto waved them off with a dismissive flick of his hand. Gaara, feeling a mix of shame and gratitude, bowed deeply.
"I'm sorry for my siblings." he apologized sincerely, his voice heavy with remorse. Naruto just ruffled his hair again, this time with a playful smirk.
"It's fine, Gaara. Your happiness is all I care about right now. Besides, I want to enjoy this a bit more before you have to go." he said, his tone a mix of somber reflection and genuine care. The weight of his words hung in the air, a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of their moments together. The two brothers then spent the day in a joyful whirlwind of activities—building intricate sandcastles that shimmered in the sunlight, watching a variety of TV shows, and playing card games, their laughter echoing through the forest. Each moment was cherished, a testament to their deep bond.
Meanwhile, Sarada, trying to clear her mind from the emotional rollercoaster of the past day, decided to take a walk through the village. She had some cash from Naruto and wandered around, hoping to find something familiar like a burger shop. However, it seemed that burgers weren't a common delicacy in this world, much to her dismay.
As she strolled through the bustling streets, she suddenly felt a pair of eyes on her. Turning, she saw a pair of familiar red eyes staring at her—Sasuke. He approached her with a casual stride, his hands tucked into his pockets and a half-smile playing on his lips.
"Sasuke, how have you been?" she asked, trying to sound casual and friendly, despite the uneasy flutter in her stomach. Sasuke's eyes softened slightly as he regarded her.
"I've been well, Sarada. And you?" he replied, his voice smooth and calm, carrying a hint of the depth and complexity that always defined him.
Sarada blushed, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks as she remembered what she was running away from.
"You know, just... getting to know Naruto..." she said, her voice trailing off as her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red. Sasuke tilted his head, a look of mild confusion crossing his face.
"I see. You two must have gotten to know each other quite well by now, instead of spending time with your own clansmen." he remarked, his tone carrying a hint of bitterness and irritation at the mention of the fox boy. For a moment, Sarada empathized with her father's sentiment, understanding his feeling of being sidelined. But then she shook off that thought, reminding herself that this wasn't the father she knew.
"Well, why don't we start getting to know each other today?" she offered, hoping to bridge the gap between them. Sasuke gave her a half-smile at her request. He placed his hand under his chin, contemplating for a moment.
"I do know a place I used to go with my clansmen. It's quite a distance from here, but would you mind accompanying me?" he asked, speaking like a gentleman. Sarada's eyes lit up with happiness at his invitation, thrilled by the prospect of spending time with her father and experiencing Uchiha cuisine.
"I'd love that." she replied enthusiastically. As they began walking, Sarada barraged him with questions.
"What's your favorite food? What's your favorite color? Do you have any hobbies?" she asked eagerly, her curiosity bubbling over. Sasuke answered each question honestly, though his responses were measured and thoughtful.
"I enjoy simple foods, like rice and fish. My favorite color is blue. As for hobbies, I used to train a lot and enjoyed learning new jutsus." he said, a nostalgic look in his eyes. They eventually arrived at a small food stand. Sasuke took out his wallet and said.
"I'll pay for us today." He returned with two rice balls and a cup of tea for each of them. Handing one to Sarada, he smiled gently. She took a bite and wasn't particularly impressed.
"Dad, of course you get the most boring dish." she joked, giggling. Then she realized what she had said and began to blush, embarrassed by her slip-up. Sasuke raised an eyebrow.
"Dad?" he questioned, curiosity piqued by her comment.
"No, no, it's just that you remind me of my dad." she said quickly, trying to change the subject. She began eating her rice ball quickly, scarfing down the tea to avoid further awkwardness. Sasuke was bewildered by her actions but decided to cut her some slack.
"So, how has the fox boy been treating you? Did that demon do anything to hurt you?" he asked, his tone tinged with concern and suspicion. Sarada was taken aback by his language. Her eyes narrowed, and she replied in a sharp tone.
"Would you like to repeat that?" Sasuke rubbed the back of his head and bowed slightly.
"I'm sorry. I'm just quite jealous of Naruto. He seems to be gathering all of your attention. How about this? Let's walk to the park nearby." he suggested, clearly embarrassed and eager to change the subject. Sarada sensed something off about her father but remembered that Naruto had animal ears, so nothing seemed too strange in the grand scheme of things. She pouted but said.
"Fine. As long as you don't make fun of him, I don't see us having a problem." she spoke firmly, her tone serious and unwavering. Sasuke nodded in agreement, and they continued their walk to the park, the tension between them slowly easing as they began to understand each other a little better.
The park was bathed in the golden hues of the late afternoon sun, casting long shadows and creating a serene ambiance. The scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass filled the air, mingling with the distant sound of children playing. Sarada and Sasuke found a quiet bench under a large cherry blossom tree, its branches heavy with pink petals that occasionally drifted down like soft snowflakes.
"So, tell me more about yourself." Sasuke prompted, his voice soft and genuinely curious.
Sarada thought for a moment before responding.
"Well, my dream is to become Hokage. I know not everyone can achieve that, but there's someone I admire who put everything into his dream. He cared for people even when he had nothing to gain from it." she said sincerely, tears welling up in her eyes as she thought of the older Naruto. She longed to hug him, but she knew that was impossible now. Sasuke placed a comforting hand on her shoulder and wiped away her tears.
"It's fine. I know you must be going through a lot since you lost your parents. But I'm here for you." he said gently. Sarada looked up at her father and couldn't hold back her emotions. She burst into tears. Sasuke stood up, gently guiding her to a secluded alleyway where she could break down without being seen. As they entered the narrow space, Sarada's vision blurred with tears, and exhaustion overcame her. She collapsed to the ground, and Sasuke didn't make any move to catch her. Instead, he pulled out an animal mask from his back pocket and placed it over his face before dropping the transformation jutsu.
The image of Sasuke faded, revealing a girl dressed in all black. Sarada, still groggy and sedated, tried to understand what was happening but found her body too weak to respond. The woman knelt down, looking at her with cold indifference.
"You're going to make so many Uchiha." she said, her voice devoid of emotion. Sarada's consciousness slipped away, and Karin picked up her unconscious form. She used a transformation jutsu, shrinking Sarada down into a kunai before leaving the alleyway. Making her way to the outskirts of Konoha, she delivered her 'package' to her father, Danzo, in his secret hideout. Danzo, covered in bandages, turned to his daughter with a rare smile.
"Karin, you've done an excellent job. With her, we no longer need the other brat." he said in a stoic tone. Karin was puzzled by his words.
"Father, excuse me, what do you mean we don't need the other brat?" she asked, trying to understand his plan.
"With her, we can harvest her eggs. We can make more Uchiha. Your next mission, during the exams three weeks from now, is to kill Sasuke Uchiha." he ordered, his words ringing in her ears. Karin felt a wave of horror wash over her, but she kept her face expressionless. She nodded her head and stood up to leave. As she exited the compound, she stopped by a tree and unleashed her pent-up rage, screaming viciously. She slammed her fist into the tree, breaking the bark and splintering the wood. Tears streamed down her face.
"First, my mother sells me to this man. Then, I have to train day in and day out just to survive. Then, he forces me to kill my best friend. And now, he wants me to kill the love of my life. After I've given him everything!" she screamed, her voice echoing through the forest. She continued to pound the tree until it was nothing but splinters, her heartache and anger pouring out with every strike. She collapsed to the ground, exhausted, sweat running down her face. Karin had worn the mask of loyalty so well, convincing herself that she could continue this charade indefinitely. But today was the final straw. She had to act; she had to escape.
Wiping the sweat from her brow, she stepped away from the shattered tree and made her way toward the fox's forest. Determination set in her eyes, she created a shadow clone, instructing it to gather her other teammate who she would need for this mission. She placed a seal on herself, allowing her to bypass Naruto's security system. Her heart raced as she considered what to say to the fox boy. She knew there was no room for pride now—she would have to beg for his help. As she entered the forest, she spotted Naruto building a sandcastle with Gaara. She approached them cautiously, her Anbu outfit making her presence almost ghostly.
"Naruto Uzumaki, we need to talk." she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil within. "Sarada Uchiha is in danger, and I need your help." Naruto's eyes twitched as he turned to face her, his expression calm but his eyes glowing with intense glared at the intruder, suspicion and anger burning in his eyes. The air around him crackled with raw chakra as two tails of crimson energy began to protrude from his back, the manifestation of Kurama's power.
"Why should I trust you?" he growled, his voice thick with venom. His muscles tensed, ready to pounce at the slightest hint of betrayal. Karin took a deep breath and slowly dropped her mask, revealing her face beneath. Her eyes were a mixture of determination and desperation.
"Because the man who's been controlling your life is trying to take someone you love from you. And I'm the only one who can lead you to him and help you expose him to the village," she said, her voice cold and calculating. Each word was chosen carefully, aimed to convey the urgency and sincerity of her plea. Gaara stood ready, his sand swirling protectively around him. His gaze was fixed on Naruto, waiting for his brother to make the first move and determine whether Karin was an enemy or a potential ally. Naruto's eyes flickered with uncertainty as he studied her, searching for any sign of deceit. The intensity of his stare was almost unbearable.
"So why would you help me? There must be some reason you turned on your boss," he questioned, his mistrust palpable. Karin took a deep breath, bracing herself to reveal a painful truth.
"It's because if I don't kill him, I'll be forced to kill the person I love. It's as simple as that," she replied, her voice steady and devoid of emotion, though her eyes betrayed the inner turmoil she felt. Naruto could sense the sincerity in her words, yet his hesitation lingered. He knew this could be a trap, but Sarada's life was at stake. He couldn't afford to take that risk. He sighed deeply, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly.
"Fine. I understand the feeling of wanting to protect someone you love. But if you lie to me and this is a trick, I will personally hunt down and destroy everyone you hold dear," Naruto spoke with a quiet resolve, his voice devoid of anger, just a promise he intended to keep. Karin nodded, her expression cold and resigned.
"Understood. I know the consequences of betrayal," she replied, accepting the gravity of the situation. Naruto glanced at Gaara, who gave a subtle nod of approval. The sand around Gaara settled, though his eyes remained vigilant.
"Alright," Naruto said, turning back to Karin.
"Tell us everything you know about Danzo's plan and how we can save Sarada." Karin began to speak, her voice steady as she detailed the insidious scheme with precise and chilling clarity.
"Danzo has been operating from the shadows, using his network of loyalists to carry out his orders. He plans to extract Sarada's Sharingan and use her as a pawn in his quest for power. He believes that with her abilities, he can solidify his control over the village." Naruto's fists clenched at the thought of Sarada being used in such a way.
"Where is he keeping her?" he demanded, his voice low and dangerous.
"She's being held in a hidden facility on the outskirts of Konoha," Karin replied. "It's heavily guarded, but I know the way in. We need to move quickly; there's not much time." Naruto and Gaara exchanged a glance, a silent agreement passing between them.
"We'll follow your lead," Naruto said. "But know this: if you betray us, there will be no place on earth where you can hide." Karin nodded again, her resolve firm.
"I understand. Let's go." As they moved through the dense forest, Naruto and Gaara kept a close watch on Karin, ready to act at a moment's notice. The journey was tense, every rustle of leaves and snap of twigs putting them on edge. Finally, they reached the edge of the forest, where a concealed entrance lay hidden beneath the roots of an ancient tree. As they arrived, Neji stood there with his arms crossed, his Byakugan activated, scanning the surroundings. The sight of Naruto and Gaara, accompanied by Karin, deepened his confusion.
"What are you two doing here?" Neji demanded, his voice firm as his pale eyes fixed on the approaching trio. Naruto's gaze hardened, suspicion evident in his demeanor.
"Have you been working with her?" he questioned, trying to piece together the situation. Karin stepped forward, her presence commanding their attention.
"No, he hasn't," she stated firmly. "I'm offering him a way out of his curse mark, and in exchange, he's going to help us." Her voice was casual yet authoritative, leaving no room for doubt. Naruto scrutinized her, trying to detect any hint of deceit, but found none. Neji, relieved by her explanation, relaxed his stance slightly, though he remained on guard.
"Here's the plan," Karin continued, her voice cold and calculated. "I'll infiltrate first, gathering the evidence we need against my father. I'll send it with a shadow clone to the Hokage's headquarters. This should be straightforward for me since I'm well-trusted. After that, we all move to rescue Sarada." Her tone was unwavering, filled with resolve.
Naruto was momentarily confused, wondering why not Inform Hiruzen first, but then he recalled the Third Hokage's history of passivity in certain matters. He also understood that Karin's father, Danzo, had deep-rooted connections, making conventional help unreliable.
"Fine," Naruto agreed, his voice carrying a weight of seriousness.
"No matter what, Danzo is going down today." His tone left no room for argument. They stood at the entrance, staring into the foreboding darkness beyond. The air was thick with tension, each of them steeling themselves for the battle ahead.