Chapter 2
On with the story

Hinata

Another day had passed. Like usual I woke up in my own bed. I went to school and did my normal routine. School had been out for a week after the festival. They found 47 people dead but wouldn't give details about what happened. I knew that Naruto had done it. At least I think so. He saved me. But...the very next day after the festival I woke up in my bed.

Father was angry at me for separating from him during the festival but that was all. I even had clean clothes the next morning. There was no sign of the blood which covered me that night.

Naruto gave no sign at school that he'd killed so many people. He played the same pranks, made the same jokes. He was still the dead last in class who couldn't even make a proper henge. I think I'm going crazy.

Maybe I didn't murder that man after all. Maybe it was all just a dream and the deaths at the festival were just an unfortunate coincidence. It would be a huge relief to know that I didn't kill someone even if they were going to hurt Naruto. I had to stop thinking about it.

"Hello...N-naruto-kun."

I saw him in the hallway during our lunch break. He moved towards me with his usual happy-go-lucky attitude. He walked with a bright smile, his arms resting behind his head. Not a care in the world.

"Oh hey Hinata." He stated casually.

Then he just walked past me. Naruto went over to Sasuke to challenge him to a kunai throwing contest. Naruto always lost but that didn't stop him from constantly trying.

Maybe it WAS just a dream.

When Naruto inevitably lost Kiba made fun of him like usual. Naruto rubbed his nose with one finger and played it off, pointing at Sasuke and vowing to become better then him. The class turned away in disinterest. When Kiba turned his back to Naruto, Naruto sent him a deathly glare. No one else saw that look but me. It was a look I've only seen Naruto give once. A look of rage, of malice, of...hate. His expression lasted for only a second before it disappeared and his "mask" returned.

It was hard to keep denying what I knew in my heart was true. Still, I had to know for sure.

I followed Naruto home after school. Normally I'd go straight home and before dinner Hanabi and I would spar. I had plenty of time to make it home before our sparring session so I took the time to tail Naruto.

He walked casually through the village. I didn't actually know where he lived. As he walked I could see the glares he received from so many people. I can't believe I didn't notice them until now. Naruto didn't seem to notice or if he did he didn't show it. He just continued to walk with that carefree stride. He even had a contented smile on his face like he usually does. Is this really the same boy from that night?

We finally made it to his apartment. I hid very far back but I was close enough to see where he was going. The building was disgusting. It was located in the poorest area of the village. He walked into the run-down apartment building and disappeared. I didn't know which unit he was in but I only had to wait a few minutes to find out. I could see his silhouette in the window of the third floor. I was too far away and too low to get a good look.

At least I knew where he lived. It made me so sad. He lived alone in such a terrible place. How could the village let this happen? How could the Hokage let this happen? How could anyone!?

I got home just in time to spar with Hanabi. Father didn't seem to notice that I got home late. Or if he did he didn't care. As long as I was on time for the sparring session and our quiet dinners I was spared his wrath.

I began to follow Naruto home regularly after that. He didn't always go straight home. Sometimes he'd stop at this ramen shop. Other times he'd pull a prank. It became routine for a while. Eventually however I noticed something...strange.

There seemed to be less people glaring at Naruto. I thought that was part of my imagination as well. As time went on it seemed undeniable. Then something even stranger happens. One day I thought I noticed someone else in Naruto's apartment. I had to know the truth.

The next day after school I rushed to Naruto's apartment determined to get there before he did. I knew about how long it took for him to arrive. He took his time so it took about an hour. He could get there faster if he wanted but he never seemed to be in a rush. Naruto kept his window open a lot but it was on the third floor. I still hadn't learned to climb up walls yet. Maybe if I really tried I could make it but I decided to just try his front door instead. It was unlocked!

Naruto's apartment was rather plain and small. There was only one room. Even that room was smaller than mine. It felt so lonely. I hesitated to explore. Technically I was breaking and entering. Well, maybe not breaking. But I definitely wasn't supposed to be here.

With a deep breath I found the courage to continue. I was here to find out the truth. Never mind that this was Naruto's apartment. His living room, his bathroom, his...bed. My face was burning bright red as I made it to his room. I took tentative steps forward and the first thing I did was sit on his bed. I don't think my face has ever burned brighter. I was on Naruto's bed!

Thump!

I nearly jumped out of my skin. A noise came from his closet, like something falling to the ground. I thought about just running away but something made me push forward. I got up and slowly made my way to the closed closet door. I opened it and gasped. Oh my gods!

Two people were tied up with rope. They leaned back against the closet wall. They were bloody and bruises. The smell of blood was overwhelming. I don't know how I didn't smell it until now. One was a man. He had on an apron. I think I recognized him. Yes! He was the owner of a restaurant that Naruto passes by on his way home. The other person was a middle aged woman. She wore this large pearl necklace. I recognized her too. She worked at the jewelry store. Another place Naruto passed by on his way home.

I was mortified. They looked like death. When they saw me their eyes widened. They were gagged but they screamed at me nonetheless. I could see their panic, their plea for help. The woman tried to move but her wrists were tied behind her back and a clanking noise resounded from behind her. A metal chain bound them to a lock on the floor.

"You're not supposed to be in here." Came the very familiar voice of Naruto.

I swiveled around and there he was. How did he get in here without my noticing? I didn't hear or see him.

"Naruto…what's going on?" I could barely get the words out.

I must have sounded pathetic. I was so scared. Naruto maintained his carefree posture, walking next to me to look down at his two captives.

"Punishment." Naruto stated bluntly.

The way he said it was haunting. He still sounded like Naruto, sounded so...chipper. But his eyes. They were still bright blue but they held something...sinister underneath.

Naruto squatted down to their level. They cowered, backing further into the closet like cornered animals. Their muffled whimpers made me quiver.

"Silence." Naruto commanded.

They went quiet. I didn't know who was more terrified, them or me. Naruto reached forward and patted the head of the woman. She flinched from his touch.

He stood up and closed the closet door, turning to face me now. I backed away until I fell over on my butt atop his bed. Naruto followed and looked down on me.

"What are you going to do to me? This is...so terrible Naruto." I whimpered.

Naruto bent down and put his hands near the side of my hips. He stared at me for a long while. I turned my head away.

"I'm going to eat your soul." Naruto whispered.

I couldn't help the tears falling from my eyes.

"I'm just kidding. Jeez Hinata. You're so serious." Naruto suddenly blurted out while rising up and giving me space.

He laughed. How could he be laughing? His laughter was so innocent. I didn't know what to think.

"Naruto?" I questioned cautiously.

He rubbed his nose in that familiar Naruto way, a big grin on his face. How could he be so light hearted in this situation?

"Sorry, I just couldn't help it. I didn't scare you too much did I?"

Naruto placed his hands behind his head and waited for me to answer. I'm glad he was patient, it took me awhile to gather my thoughts. I looked over to the closed closet door before glancing at him.

"Naruto. I...I'm so confused." I admitted.

Naruto turned around and sat next to me on the bed, plopping down casually.

"Yea that's my bad. I probably should have told you what I was doing. I figured this was as good a way as any to show you. I figured you'd find out eventually given you've been following me all this time." Naruto commented matter of factly.

My eyes widened.

"You knew I was following you? Why didn't you say anything?"

He shrugged.

"Well...I kind of liked it. That and...I couldn't really be up front with you. After that night the Hokage started watching me more closely. He came to me and asked me a lot of questions and started a secret investigation. I told him I didn't remember what happened during the festival. I lied but I know he didn't believe me. So the reason it may seem like I've been ignoring you is because I didn't want to act suspicious and draw any unnecessary attention. At least not yet. I still have to get stronger." Naruto explained.

I was shocked. It took me a while to respond. While I gathered my thoughts Naruto just stared at me. I couldn't maintain eye contact.

"I knew it wasn't just a dream. So...you really killed all those people?"

"Yep!"

I fidgeted.

"So I...killed that man?" I feared hearing the truth.

"Totally. In one hit too. I'm impressed."

How could he be so casual about this?

"Naruto…"

He rubbed the back of his neck and sighed.

"Yea I know. This must be a lot for you to take in. Don't worry. I'm taking care of everything. Like I told you. I'll protect us." Naruto stated confidently while rising from his seat.

I watched him warily. He walked over to the closet and knocked on the door. The two inside were whimpering again.

"Hey, I hate repeating myself. I said be quiet." Naruto barked out in annoyance.

Their whimpers only grew. Naruto huffed. He took a kunai out from his leg strap and twirled it in his finger. He swung the closet door open and those two looked at me again. They were in a panic.

"Hinata-chan, wait at the park please. I'll be out in a minute.." Naruto instructed.

I hesitated for just a moment but eventually I got up and nodded.

"O-ok." I replied with my head bowed as I headed for the exit.

They screamed in that muffled way once more.

"I said shut up!" I heard Naruto yell as he brought his kunai down on them.

I hurried away, leaving the apartment building and running as fast as I could. I ran until my heart felt like it would jump out of my chest. I was about half way home when I stopped. My mind was spinning. My world went black.

I woke up a while later. It was night time. Oh gods how long was I out? Father was going to be so mad at me! I shakily rose to my feet. My knees were wobbly. At least I knew exactly where I was. I guess I passed out and I was in a spot that was out of sight enough for no one to have noticed me. I was about to sprint home when I remembered what happened. Naruto.

I stopped and stared at the path towards home and then another path. My body began to move on it's own. I was heading towards the park. I knew exactly which one he was talking about. It wasn't too far from his house.

I don't know why I was going towards it. I should be running far away as fast as I could but something compelled me forward. I...needed to see him again.

The park was empty when I got there. The sun was almost down. I only spotted the silhouette of one lone figure. There he was.

Naruto was swinging lightly along a swing. He had this happy, far off look.

"H-hello...Naruto." I managed to sputter out.

Naruto finally turned his intense gaze towards. He closed his eyes and smiled brighter than I've ever seen.

"Hey Hinata-chan."

The way he spoke my name was...well, it made me squirm. I was sweating, my heart beat a thousand times a minute. I bowed my head and avoided his gaze. I just couldn't look him in the eye when he was staring at me like that.

"Naruto...I...I don't know what's going on."

I'd been thinking that a lot lately. Naruto let out his patented Naruto chuckle. I wrapped my arms around myself. He made me feel silly.

"Come sit with me." Naruto beckoned.

I hesitated for just a moment before following his command. I took a seat on the swing next to his. The chains squeaked as we swayed next to each other.

"Thanks for saving me that night." Naruto spoke up to break the silence.

I poked my fingers together. It was a long held nervous habit of mine.

"I couldn't let them keep hurting you." I admitted honestly.

Naruto nodded.

"That's why I'm thanking you silly."

My blush had returned. I stole glances towards him and every time I did he was staring back at me. It was almost too much. I felt like I was going to pass out.

"Oh...Um...you're welcome. I want to thank you as well."

"You're welcome." Naruto said without hesitation.

We both went silent again.

"Naruto…" I began.

"Yes Hinata-chan?"

The chains to my swing were rattling from how much I was shaking.

"Why are those people locked in your closet!?"

I blurted the words out quickly and closed my eyes. I just had to get my thoughts out even if it was hard to speak.

"I told you. It's punishment."

"Punishment for what?"

I had to know.

"For showing me such little respect." He said in a haunting voice.

I looked over and saw his eyes narrow. Everything about him was chilling. Yet still it was undeniable that this was still Naruto. My Naruto. I didn't know what to say. Naruto chuckled and shook his head. He finally tore his gaze away from me now to look up into the night sky.

"I'm tired of people hurting me, glaring at me, hating me for no reason. I have a secret that I didn't find out until that night. The Kyuubi, the fox demon that was defeated all those years ago. They didn't kill it. It was too strong. So they sealed it away inside of a baby who's chakra was strong enough to contain it. That baby was me."

My eyes widened in shock. I just couldn't believe it.

"Naruto…"

He reached over and brushed a finger along my cheek.

"Don't worry Hinata-chan. I'm fine."

Despite everything his words and his touch made me feel a lot better. I still had to know more.

"So that's what happened? The Kyuubi...possessed you? Made you kill all those people?" I asked in a hopeful manner.

He didn't hesitate to crush my hopes.

"No. I did that all by myself. I just borrowed Kyuubi's power. But I killed those people. Those scum." Naruto spat out the word scum.

I flinched at his ferocity. His expression softened.

"Sorry, I can get carried away sometimes." He said while looking away.

"It..it's ok."

I don't know why I felt the need to comfort him but it felt right. He smiled at me and reached over to grab my hand. I thought I was going to have a heart attack.

"Thank you. I don't mean to talk that way and scare you. It's just...I won't take it a second longer. Not anymore. If they want to hate me then I'll give them a reason to hate me. No, to fear me. But you...you don't need to fear me Hinata. Everyone else will but not you. You're special."

His words were monstrous. I could see that now. But somehow that didn't matter when he said something in particular.

"I'm...special?"

He chuckled softly and nodded.

"Of course you are. You saved me. You stood up for me, you defended me from those bastards. I'll never hurt you. Even if you never talk to me again, I'll understand."

My body moved on it's own again. I jumped up from my swing and engulfed him in a hug. My arms wrapped around his neck. I actually ended up knocking him out of his swing. We both fell to the ground but he held me close and broke our fall.

"I won't do that Naruto-kun! I love you!" I blurted out before gasping and covering my mouth.

He smiled bright and looked up to me with a gentle expression. HIs arms were wrapped securely around my waist as we laid together atop the grass. I was so embarrassed. I dropped my head low and hid my face in his chest.

"I love you too Hinata-chan."

I looked up to him with a feeling I couldn't recognize. We stared at each other for longer than we probably should have. He was the first to look away.

"Hinata-chan would you like to know my dream?" Naruto suddenly questioned.

I just nodded. I couldn't speak. I don't know what kind of pathetic noise would leave my throat if I did.

"This world is so messed up and people can be so cruel. They only care about themselves. They will hurt anyone to make themselves feel better about their stupid lives. My dream is to rule this world and teach everyone a lesson."

I was shaking but I didn't pull away.

"What lesson is that Naruto-kun?"

"You reap what you sow."

His voice was darker than I ever heard it. But as soon as he said it his mood brightened.

"Or something like that. I know that's kind of a corny line but still. You get the point." Naruto said with a childish giggle.

Despite how horrible what he was saying was I couldn't help laughing with him. I laughed harder than I can ever remember.

"Hinata-chan."

"Yes Naruto-kun?"

"When I conquer the world I think I'll be like...the first king of the world. Or Emperor. Yea, I like the sound of that better. I...want you to be with me when I do. How does being an Empress sound?"

My eyes widened.

"An...Empress."

"Yep!"

I poked my fingers together nervously.

"Don't...um...don't you have to get married first?"

Naruto's grin widened.

"Yep! As soon as we are old enough we will get married right away!" Naruto declared.

I felt like I was going to pass out. I think all the blood in my entire body had rushed to my face.

"O-ok, Naruto-kun."

Naruto pumped his fists in the air triumphantly. I marveled at him. I'd stick by his side no matter what.

That night father screamed at me for coming home so late. Somehow I couldn't bother to care. I sparred with Hanabi and studied like I was supposed to. All with a subtle smile glued to my face. Nothing could get me down.

That night I snuck out of the house. I sped over to Naruto's apartment. When I got there the lights were off. I tried to be as quiet as I could but honestly I didn't really need to. No one else but Naruto lived in the apartment building. That's how run down it was. His front door was unlocked as usual.

Naruto was waiting for me in the bedroom. The first thing I did was look at the closet door. He chuckled and moved over to it and opened the door. It was empty.

"See? You don't have to worry about them bothering us."

"What..um..what happened to them Naruto?"

"I let them go."

I went wide-eyed.

"You...you did?"

He nodded happily.

"Yep. Now they will fear me. And they will make others fear me as well. Only the adults know my secret and they aren't supposed to talk about it around the kids. They only talk about it among themselves in secret. So my plan is to teach everyone that glares at me a lesson until they show me the respect I deserve. An emperor must command respect. But I also showed them mercy. So eventually I'll command loyalty and devotion as well. I'm very confident they won't tell the authorities about me. Even if they do I destroyed all evidence so it'd be my word against theirs. They already hate me because I'm the "demon child" so it would be easy to make everyone believe that they are lying about me just because they hate me." Naruto explained casually while letting out a yawn and hopping in the bed.

I only had my pajamas on, along with a coat. I took off the coat and climbed in the bed with Naruto. We both got under the covers and cuddled close together.

"You're so smart Naruto-kun."

Naruto shrugged.

"Kyuubi helped me figure most of this out so give him credit too."

"Do you mean THE Kyuubi?"

I couldn't help how scared my voice sounded. Naruto snicked.

"Yep! Though don't worry. He's a big softie. You'll meet him soon. Maybe when I'm not so tired." Naruto said with a big yawn.

I nodded.

"Ok. Goodnight Naruto-kun."

"Goodnight Hinata-chan."

"I...I love you."

It was still difficult to say those words. I couldn't help blushing everytime I said them.

"Love ya too!" He blurted out without hesitation before closing his eyes and pulling me in even tighter.

Despite all that had happened, all that I'd learned, how scary everything was, when I was in Naruto's arms I couldn't help but feel safe. I couldn't help feeling...happy. I won't give this up for anything. Not even the world.

That's the end of the chapter. Please review.