Hi everyone! Here's chapter 33! I apologies for the delay in chapter as things were all over the place. I hope you enjoy this one.
DISCLAIMER: SAME AS CHAPTER ONE
Enjoy
A 'Two hundred and ninety. Two hundred and ninety people who are now infected, by this mysterious pathogen. Two hundred infected within Konoha, the other ninety situated all over the surrounding area. More are expected in the upcoming days, despite our best efforts.'
Closing the file, an exhausted sigh filled the once silent office. Tsunade lent back against her chair, her mind reeling unable to settle it.
Knock Knock
"Enter." the door swung open revealing a petit Chūnin, holding a scroll. Walking up to the Hokage, she placed the scroll in front of her then body flickered away. A manicured hand picked up the scroll, unravelled the ribbon binding it shut. Caring less where the ribbon ended up, the blonde began to read its contents. In less than a minute, a massive chakra spike erupted from the Hokage mansion, every window exploded outwards, spraying the surrounding area in glass.
'I'm so glad I wasn't there for that.' thought the petit Chūnin as she walked down the street.
"Bear! Eagle! Cat!" in seconds the trio were kneeling before the seething women. Her anger was flooding of her in torrents, her chakra causing cracks to form in the surrounding walls. "When the village elders get their wrinkly arses back to the village, I want them brought to me. Don't give them a chance to complain." barked the blonde, cracking her fingers. "Move!" not needing to be told twice they flickered away.
Matsuho sat in a throne like chair, her emerald eyes staring intently at the small audience in front of her.
"Do you want to run that by me again?" her voice eerily calm and level. Her gazes flicking to each of her subordinates, making each of them involuntary flinch. "Would you care to tell me how you managed to fail in capturing the Kyuubi's host and its mate? But how you also left witnesses. So tell me. How?"
"There was a complication." began the commander; a twisted cackle filled the vast room.
"A complication? How can a simple mission become complicated?"
"I was about to tell you that." he mumble lowly, but not lowly enough. Emerald eyes hardened in a fraction of a second.
"Speak to me like that again commander, and I'll cut out your tongue." threatened Matsuho, enjoying the pure look of fear in his eyes. "Continue." calming his pounding heart, the commander swallowed nervously.
"As I was saying, a complication arose. The teens came across another squad of Konoha shinobi on the outskirts of the desert."
"What was so difficult about that?" casually stated the demon, as if she was talking about the weather.
"They were accompanying the Kazekage back to Konoha." taking a deep breath he continued his report. "I believe the Kazekage is the host of the Shukaku." a deafing silence followed after the report. Everyone watched their mistress, waiting anxiously. Rising elegantly from her throne, she glided seamlessly towards the commander.
"You believe? Its either you do or you do not know. Which one is it?"
"I-I-I don't know mistress."
"You have two days to rectify your mistake. Fail and you'll lose your life. Understood?"
"Yes master." swallowing tightly, he bowed lowly, followed by the rest of the assembly. Matsuho watched as the throne room was emptied. The low thump of the heavy oak doors being closed echoed, leaving her alone.
"Walk with me." she said out loud to a seamlessly empty room. As she walked down through the middle of the large room, a figure emerged from the shadows. Walking one step behind her, he remain silent waiting for instructions. "I have a mission for you."
"I'll be honoured to serve you my mistress. Your wish is my command." he stated obediently, ready to execute any order without hesitation.
"I know you are my most loyal subject. This is why I trust you with this task."
"Say it and it will be done." a small smile graced her lips.
"Locate every Bijū, and then destroy them by any means necessary." commanded the black haired women.
"What of their hosts?" inquired the shadow.
"They are of no concern to me." waving the comment off as it was nothing.
"What about Hinako?" the temperature dropped so quickly ice began to creep across the stone floor. Harden eyes stared at him, making him recoil slightly.
"I'll deal with her personally." the finality in her tone told him the conversation was over.
"As mistress commands." with a final bow he disappeared. Standing alone, reigning in her hatred, storing it all away for when she'll finally use it to kill her old friend.
"Where's that Ninkin? I suppose all of you want a lift back?" sighing deeply. "Fine. Everyone get on before I leave you behind." threatened 'bunta, meaning every word. Without further motivation, everyone scrambled onto Gamabunta's head. "Hold on tight."
PUFF
An explosion of smoke covered a sizeable portion of the Konoha General Hospital, scarring several personnel and patients. It wasn't every day that a giant toad turned up, with ninja accompanying it. As soon as the smoke cleared, Kiba jumped down from the amphibians head, followed closely by his fellow comrades. Once everyone was off, Gamabunta, as delicately as he could manage, placed the pale and clammy teen onto the floor.
Jiriaya hopped down from a nearby building surveying the newly appeared group. Gamabunta spotted the old hermit.
"Jiriaya, long time no see." the white haired man looked up at his old friend.
"Gamabunta, it has been awhile since we last spoke to each other. Anyway, what are you doing here? Naruto summoned you, and made you bring everyone home?" chuckling slightly at the mental image of the two of them arguing. "So where's the knucklehead anyway?" searching for a mob of blonde spike hair. On closer inspection, everyone was covered in scraps, cuts and burns.
"What happened?"
"That has to wait Jiraiya-Sama, Naruto needs immediate medical attention." delicately picking up the unconscious teen. On the outside he seemed a picture of tranquillity, but on the inside he was in complete turmoil. Walking towards the entrance of the hospital, but was stopped when to ANBU blocked the way.
"No one is permitted into the hospital, as it's under quarantine." emotionlessly stated the masked nin.
"Well I'm going in. And here's nothing you can do to try and stop me." spat back the exhausted teen, taking no one's shit.
"There is." unsheathing their Tantōs. "We have our orders Omega, take him to a clinic." distaste clear in the ANBU's voice as he addressed the younger male. Kib's eyes narrowed to fine slits, a growl.
"What did you say?" anger started to boil within the brunette's veins. A snarl formed on the teens lips daring them to do something about it.
"Kiba." came a commanding voice, suppressing the urge to flip the person off Kiba turned to face the voice. "There isn't the time for this. Naruto is on deaths door, he needs help." without another word Jiriaya took hold of the teens arm and body flickered them to the nearest clinic.
"Right I'm off." in a plume of smoke, Gamabunta dispelled leaving the remaining shinobi in silence. Gaara was the first to speak.
"I'll be taking my leave now, to meet with the Hokage." without another word, the young Kazekage made his way towards the Hokage mansion.
"Right, my youthful students head home and freshen up, and meet here in an hour." dismissing the warn out teens.
In a small secluded clinic laid a injured teen, the slow, but steady beeping of the heart monitor was the only indicator that he was still alive. An exhausted brunette sat in a high back chair, watching the green line spike.
"Come back, Naru. Come back to us." whispered Kiba.
"You should get some sleep." came a familiar voice. Turning he notice his mum standing in the doorway. "And a shower. You look like you been through hell and back."
"Ha, you could say that. I'll go when he wakes, not a moment before." fixing his gaze back into the monitor. Silence fell over the room, neither brunette made any attempt to talk. Time seemed to become non-existent, as mother and child sat next to each other. Outside, the sun was setting, casting its last warm ray on the land below.
"Come on Kiba, you need to eat, over wise you'll collapse from chakra exhaustion." stated Tsume gently but with an underlining command. She watched her youngest as he became conflicted on what to do. "Once we've eaten and you've freshened up, we'll come back."
"Ok." stiffly, Kiba got up stretching, moaning at the feel of his joints popping. "Hmm, that felt good." glancing over to the sleeping blonde, he leant over and placed a soft kiss on the teens forehead. "I'll be back soon." taking one last final glance at the unconscious teen, he moved to the door.
Beep-Beep..Beep-Beep..Beep-Beep..Beeeeeeeppppppp
Alarms were ringing in the room, all Kiba could do was watch the flat green line run across the monitor.
A small child no more than six years old stood on top of the Four Hokages head, staring at the world beyond the high walls which cradled the village. Dull ocean blue eyes watched the sunset, its colourful array of colours reflecting in them. Tears ran down his scarred cheeks, making small puddles on the stone face below.
"No one will ever love a monster like me." mumbled the child, wrapping arms around him, trying to bring a little comfort to himself. "I wish you were here Kaa-chan." a soft breeze blow round the blonde as if trying to comfort him. In the shadows stood a masked ninja, watching the boy, never interacting with him, just watching. His heart ached at the site before him, his sensei's' only child. Alone. Hated by the majority of the village.
"Have you come to kill me Anbu-san?" the soft voice knocking the shinobi out of his thoughts. Coal coloured eye locked onto the dead sapphire ones, staring straight at him. "If you are, please do it swiftly, so I can finally be with my Kaa-chan and Tou-san." The six year old was standing in front of him, his eyes begging for death. "Please..."
'Those eyes. He really wants to die...' thought the Anbu; kneeling before the blonde he did something which shock both of them. He embraced the small boy, bringing him close. Upon contact, Naruto stiffened, not use to this sort of physical contact. Yeah, the Hokage picked him up sometime when he was getting tired after a day out with the old monkey, but never like this. Slowly, he began to relax into the hold, bring his own arms around the other. Without any warning, tears began to fall. Strong arms tighten, pulling the crying boy closer.
"Let it all out, Naruto. Let it all out." softly encouraged Kakashi, rubbing soothing curcles in the boys back. The stayed like that for a while, it wasn't until the night sky was filled with thousands of bright stars, which Naruto's breathing evened out. Knowing the boy was asleep, Kakashi gently as he could he picked up the slumbering blonde. Making a single hand sign, he body flickered them down to the village below.
The villages' night life was in full swing as the Anbu, walked through the lively streets. People stopped and stared at the pair, whispering followed them, Kakashi paid them no attention.
"Isn't that the demon, with Dog-san?"
"Hopefully, he'll kill the thing before it wakes up."
The last comment, made the Copy-Cat ninja's blood boil. Glancing at the sleeping blonde, his breath hitched at the uncanny resemblance between him and the Yomiande. But he has Kushina's fiery temperament, and her unnatural ability to go unnoticed in the shadows. Noticing that he was almost at their destination, he dived around in his pocket, looking for his apartment keys. By the time he fished them out, they were at his front door. After several attempts of keeping hold of the slumbering youngster with one arm, and trying to unlock the door at the same time as turning the door handle, with his bum, he finally managed to get in.
"How do mums do that so effortlessly. I'm a shinobi and I couldn't do that. My hat goes off to you single mums." mused the silver haired male, closing the door with his foot. His apartment was neat and organised, many books and scrolls filled the bookshelves. Taking little notice of the contense of the room, he made his way to the spare bedroom, which was rarely used.
With his free hand, he drew back the duvet making enough room to lay the blonde down. Taking off his Anbu mask, Kakashi started to undress the child, leaving him in only his t-shirt and a pair of old pyjama bottoms which use to belong to Hatake. Drawing the duvet up, he tucked the boy in. Kakashi stood there watching the blonde sleep, a strong urge rose in his heart. Leaning down he softly kissed Naruto's forehead.
"Goodnight, Naruto." whispered the ninja, taking one last glance at the slumbering child, he picked up his mask and closed the door without a sound. The tattoo on his arm warmed up signalling the Hokage wanted to see him. Sighing deeply he created a shadow clone.
"Look after him, while I'll see what the Hokage wants." getting a nod in confirmation, the original flickered to the Hokage's mansion.
The Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen sat at his desk going through the tedious task of signing paperwork. Sensing a familiar chakra signature, just outside his office door, he commanded Kakashi to enter.
"You can come in now, Inu." hearing the door close, the old professor looked up at the young man standing in front of him.
"You wanted to see me Hokage-sama?" bowing to the village leader.
"Yes, I did Inu." stated the professor. "There were several reports tonight regarding Naruto." explained the elder, watching the lone soldier. "Several villagers and a few shinobi said that he was being carried home by an Anbu with a dog mask. Also two shinobi noticed evidence of him been crying." still no reaction from the man in front of him. "A few minutes ago I sent an Anbu to see if he was returned his apartment however, the Anbu reported that he wasn't there, nor has it been occupied for the last several days."
"What do you mean he hasn't returned to his apartment? I watch him every night going into his apartment before going home myself." asked a puzzled Inu.
"Where is the boy now Kakashi?" commanded the Third.
"He's at mine, asleep." sighed out the silver haired man. "I found him on top of sensei's head crying, wishing he had his mum to comfort him. He knew I was there, he asked me if I was going to kill him. If I was then could I do it swiftly, so he could join his parents." explained the Anbu, a lump formed in his throat, yet he continued "Before I knew it, he was standing in front of me, his eyes dull, begging for me to kill him. I've never seen him like that, ever. I did the only thing I could do was to hug him. He cried himself to sleep, so I took him back to mine." finished Kakashi, reigning in his emotions, which threaten to take hold of him.
Sarutobi wore a grave frown on his wrinkled face. Listening to the other talk about what happened that night, grief and pain filled his aging heart.
"Were there any signs of physical abuse or self-harm when you brought him to yours?"
"No, Hokage-sama. If there were, then the Kyuubi would of healed them." answered Inu truthfully.
"Very well, keep a closer eye on him."
"Hai." bowing to the older man, making his way towards the open window. As he was about to jump out a voice stopped him.
"Oh Kakashi." turning his head to face the other man. "Thank you." giving a nod, he flew out the window homeward bound.
Five minutes later he arrived in his apartment, dismissing his clone. Taking off his gear, he walked towards the occupied bedroom. Opening the door slightly he peered in, seeing the boy was still there asleep. As he was closing the door, a reflective service caught his attention. Drawing a kunai he crept into the room, like the skilled assassin that his is. Senses pushed to their limit, reaching the object he picks it up. It was a folded up photo, cautiously he unfolded the photo. His single eye widen at the photo before him.
The picture contained two people who he hasn't seen in over six years. Shakily he turned over the photo; on the other side were two names;
'Kaa-chan' 'Tou-san'
His shocked gaze moved to the sleeping six year old, then back to the photo. It was clear that he wrote those names on the back of the photo. The last time he saw this photo was in their shared apartment, on the window ledge.
'That's where he's been living for the last week. Oh Naruto.'
Putting the photo on top of the blonds folded clothes, Kakashi made his way to his own room, collapsing on top of it. In a manner of seconds he was out like a light, a small smile gracing his lips as he dreamt of his lost precious people.
The first of morning's rays seeped into the blonds temporary room, its golden rays highlighting the mob of spiky hair, giving him an angelic glow. Azure eyes flutter open, taken in the alien room. Opposite him in an armchair, stacked neatly were his clothes. On top of them was his photo. As stealthily as he could, he made his way over to his clothes, noticing for the first time that he was dressed in somebody else's clothes. In minutes he was dressed, carefully folding his family photo, putting it somewhere safe. Creeping to the door he opened the bedroom door inch by inch, scanning the dark hallway. Seeing and hearing nothing, he crept towards the sitting room, minimal sound coming from his steps. Coming to the doorway, leading to the living room, Naruto pressed himself against the wall, allowing the natural shadow to mask him.
"Morning" whispered Kakashi, into the boys' ear, making him jump ten feet into the air. Chuckling playfully, he made his way through to the kitchen, leaving a scared blonde. Finally, Naruto let go off the ceiling, falling on his arse.
"Oww." rubbing his posterior, he looked where the Silver haired man went.
'Where the hell did he came from?' thought the whiskered six years old. Cautiously he followed after the man. Sounds of pots and pans filled the silent apartment.
"Err, mister?"
"Hmm?"
"How did I get here?" tentatively asked the Jinuriki, watching his every move.
"Well we met on the Fourths head. You ended up falling asleep so I carried you here." answered the mismatched eyed ninja, as if he was talking about the weather.
"Did you get in trouble from The Old Monkey?" he asked innocently, everything went silent. Fearing he said something wrong he quickly changed it. "I- I meant the Hokage."
"You call Hokage-sama 'The Old Monkey'?" on the outside he was a blank slate, but on the inside he couldn't stop laughing. 'He really is your child, Kushina.' "Don't look so scared Naruto. I'm not going to tell you off." noticing the worried expression on his scarred cheeks. "Right breakfast is ready, go and set the table for two." instructed the shinobi, finishing of breakfast. Sensing the boy was still standing in the same place, he glanced over his shoulder.
"I'll get going so I don't get in your way or your guests." he knew it was too good to be true. His bangs covering his hollow eyes. Sensing the older man kneeling in front of him, he refused to meet the others gaze.
"Naruto. The other person is already here." stated Kakashi softly, lifting the child's head. "That person is you." giving him a reassuring eye smile. "Now go and set the table." ruffling the blonds unruly hair. He notices how the six year old leant into the gesture. With that the blonde left the kitchen to do the task he was assigned to, a small smile gracing his lips. Breakfast was a quiet affair, neither one trying to start a conversation. A knock on the door echoed through the apartment, frowning slightly, Kakashi went to open it. Naruto sat there not knowing what he should do.
"Good morning, Kakashi." the blonde stiffened, he knew that voice anywhere.
'Ohh kami, JiJi is here. Now I'm in trouble.'
"Please come in, we were just finishing breakfast." invited Kakashi, opening the door wider to allow the village leader in. Shutting the door behind them, Kakashi, guided the third through to the sitting/dining room. Upon entering the room, he noticed that the blonde wasn't there.
"Naruto!?" no reply, he couldn't even detect his chakra signature. "Oh well, at least he's finished his breakfast before leaving." picking up both bowls, he placed them in the kitchen sink.
Sarutobi chuckled slightly, knowing the boy would always finish his meals before disappearing.
"It seems he thought I was here to tell him off, so he disappeared. It seems the Kyuubi is a blessing as well as a cures." walking over to the window, he looked out onto the busy street below. "He's going to start the academy this term; hopefully he'll gain the skills he need to defend himself."
"If you're putting him into the academy then I'll be going back on mission." summaries the Anbu, standing next to the old man. Getting a nod in confirmation, he sighed. "You know. He's been living in sensei's and Kushina's old place." he commented off handily, as he watched the crowds below.
"How do you know?"
"He has their wedding photo."
"So he knows who his parents are then. That changes everything." solemnly stated the third. 'If anyone one finds out be here or any of his father's enemies, then there's no telling how much danger the boy will be in.' grimly thought the older man. "You'll resume your regular missions in a fortnight."
The young Jinuriki walked through the main roads, people passing him as though he doesn't exist. He just kept his head down, not making any eye contact with anyone. Aimlessly he walked, his feet carrying him to a place unknown. Not like it really mattered. No one wanted to be his friend. No one wanted to get to know him, the real him.
It hurt to be alone.
Yes, he may have a small handful of people who like him. But, none which know the real him. That special someone, who would spend the rest of his life with. The person he could tell his darkest secret, and not be judge. A bittersweet smile fell on his face.
'Only those things happen in fairy tales.'
Something cold and wet fell on his scarred cheek, looking upwards, he noticed for the first time that day it was cloudy. A strong wind pushing the grey clouds along, small, clear droplets of water falling from the heavens. Closing his eyes, he let the rain fall on his face, masking the silent tears. It wasn't long until it was coming down hard, still he stood there, his clothes becoming soaked.
"Well, well, well. What do we have here?" cockily stated a male voice, cheers of agreement followed. A small sigh passed the boys lips as he faced his aggressors, no emotion passed through his face. "No one is here to help you now demon. You're going to pay for everything you've done to this village!" pure hatred radiated from the gang leader's body, more cheering followed. Creaking his fingers he disappeared, before reappearing in front of the infant. Backhanding the child, causing his to fly into an ancient tree. Shouts of encouragement filled the air, walking up to the boy, as he shakily got to his feet.
Naruto ignored the pain radiating from his abused cheek, smelling the distinct coppery aroma of blood. His blood. Again he looked at his attacker, showing no fear or pain.
"Look at this, boys. The demon wants more!" bragged the older male. "Let's not disappoint it then." slamming the child into the same tree by his throat, with his free hand he forcefully ripped off his sodden t-shirt. Chucking the material carelessly away, he withdrew a kunai from his pouch, pressing the sharpen tip against the underneath of his small chin. "You're going to get what you deserve." nodding his head towards the child, two of the mob stepped forward and held the boys arms. Still, Naruto stared unfazed at his attacker, not even as he pressed the tip of the kunai into his shoulder. Pain slowly spread across his torso, as they wrote;
'Demon Scum'
Finishing the last letter, he drew back admiring his handy work. A sick smile filled his face, his accomplices were mimicking he twisted glee. Turning around he addressed the unruly mob.
"Bring the brat forward." motioning the two men to bring the child forward, showing the rest of them his handiwork. Before he could gloat further, faint hissing came from the blonde. Silence gripped the mob as they started wide eyed at the steam rising from the carved letters. Panicking the leader slashed the boy's abdomen causing a deep wound. Dull blue eyes widened at the pain which shout through his body. Glancing downwards, he watched the red liquid streaming out. The next thing he knew he was on his knees, being abruptly let go. A ringing in his ears blocked out all of the other sounds. His once tanned skin, turning paler by the second. His whole body shaking from the cold and blood loss. His surroundings began to become unfocused; using his remaining energy he fought to keep conscious. With little strength he had left, he pushed himself off the muddy floor, and began his journey back through the village.
The village streets were deserted, large puddles filled the roads and paths. A half-naked child stumbled through the streets, clutching onto any anything to keep himself up. Numbness was taken hold of his body, his vision becoming distorted and unfocused. Red chakra tried to heal his wound but it was being blocked by the boys' subconscious. A furious growl echoed through high bars, again the creature pushed more of her chakra into the blonds undeveloped chakra coils. The effects were disastrous.
Naruto gave out a hollow shout of pain, as the evil chakra flooded his system. It felt as though every nerve was on fire at once, his head felt like it would explode just from the pressure. Orangey-red ribbons flew around the collapsed blonde, crackling loudly as the rain drops hit them.
"No!" cried out Naruto desperately feeling his wounds beginning to heal. "STOP!" tears running down his ice cold cheeks. "Le-Let me die...please!" another threatening growl echoed in his ears. More demonic chakra forced itself through its uncooperative host.
"I SAID STOP!"
BOOM
Sarutobi stood silently within his empty office, looking out over his village. He stood there as the patter of rain drops hit the glass distorting his aged reflection. Paperwork abandoned, reports covering the desk. Still he stood there, his mind heavy with thoughts. Subconsciously he withdrew his pipe, snapping his fingers he conjured a small flame, lighting the tobacco. Breathing in the smoke it relaxed his body, holding on to it for a few seconds, he let it out slowly.
"What is it Inu?" addressed the Third, still looking out of the window.
"I can't locate Naruto, anywhere." answered the dog Anbu. "He wasn't at any of his usual places, my Ninkin are out looking for him as we speak. However, with the rain it'll be harder for them to locate him." summarised the elite shinobi, waiting obediently for his orders. A heavy sigh left the professors lips, turning he walked back to his desk, plumbing a small amount of chakra into the keyhole. Opening the draw he took out a plain looking scroll, with a single swipe of his arm he cleared his cluttered desk. Unravelling the scroll he made the necessary symbol to active it, a plume of smoke revealed the crystal ball. As he was placing his hands onto the ball, a sense of dread washed over him, sending a shiver down his back. Kakashi stiffened his single eye widening, unable to move.
'Impossible...Naruto!'
Snapping out of their initial shock, both shinobi left the office in a bur, heading towards the source of the demonic chakra. More Anbu joined the pair as they raced to the disturbance, some readying their weapons.
Landing in the street where a half-naked Naruto laid on the floor withering in pain, red chakra flying all around him.
"Do nothing unless I say so!" ordered the third, his tone promising painful consequences. Hearing 'Hai' from everyone, he relaxed slightly knowing that they won't do anything. His mind raced with different thoughts on how to stop it.
"No!" cried out Naruto as he rolled onto his back. Sarutobi's eyes hardened at the state of the blonde's upper body. K.I rippled off him as he noticed 'Demon Scum' sliced into the boys chest. The ninjas standing next to him stepped away from him; his K.I along with the boys was beginning to weigh the air down.
"STOP!" choked out the blonde, tears streaming down his pale cheeks. Without a second thought, Kakashi made his way to his young charge. The closer he got to the child, the more resistance from the sheer force of the chakra flying around.
"Le-Let me die...please!" harder Hatake pushed against the onslaught, step after step. As he neared the boy, more demonic chakra forced itself through its uncooperative host.
"I SAID STOP!"
BOOM
Red and blue chakra exploded from the blonde, blasting everyone back. The shockwave blow out every window within the facinaty, causing massive cracks in the buildings surrounding the explosion. A massive dust cloud obscured everything, Kakashi shakily stood up, his ears ringing from the blast. Steadily he moved through the dust cloud, until he reached the unconscious six year old. Kneeling down he checked the blondes' vitals, a steady beat told him the boy was alive.
"Has the seal been broken?" asked Sarutobi as he stood next to his elite ninja. Wary eyes fell onto the boys stomach were the seal was visible. Getting a negative from the silver haired man, he breathed out a sigh of relief.
"Inu, Tiger, Eagle. Take him to the hospital, and make sure he's taken care of. If they refuse tell them they will find themselves removed." he ordered watching as the trio executed their orders. "Bear. Get Yamanaka Inoichi to meet me at the hospital in the next twenty minutes. The rest of you find out who did this and take them to T&I." dismissing them with a flick of his wrist. Elderly eyes took in the damage caused, breathing out a heavy sigh, he flickered to the hospital.
Within an isolated room at the far side of the hospital, laid an unconscious blonde. The majority of his frail body wrapped in sterile bandages. The steady peeping of the nearby machine, and the slight rise and fall of his chest, showing he was still alive. Kakashi stood over the boy, his single eye staring intently at the infant.
"I've failed sensei." he muttered to himself. His mind conjured up what Minato and Kushina would say and does he ever meet them, in this world or the next. A shiver ran down his spine at the mere thought of what Kushina would do to his person.
'Well, I can count myself lucky, that she isn't here otherwise...' another ripple went down his spine.
"I'll bet your glad Kushina isn't here, otherwise you'll have to flee." chuckled the Third, as he walked through the door. "An angry mother isn't someone you want to cross, especial a certain vindictive redhead." a shiver ran down his back. "How is he?" the humour gone from his voice as he stood next to the younger man. For the umpteenth time, Kakashi sighed, with a quick glance at the village leader he lifted up his porcelain mask.
"He has..." he was interrupted by the door being slide violently open. Instinctively the masked ninja went to grab a kunai, but froze when he saw who flung open the door.
Umino Iruka just finished his dinner; the clink of the china bowl was the only sound in the empty apartment. The brunette sat there in the empty silence, his hazel eyes glancing through the small window, watching the rain fall.
'I wonder how Naruto is. I haven't seen him since yesterday afternoon.' snapping out of his pondering, he resumed his routine. Minutes passed as the brunette finished washing up, drying the last bowl humming a tune as he went. A blast of K.I swept over him followed by a distinctive wave of chakra. The bowl slipped out of his hand, shattering upon hitting the floor.
'Naruto!'
The broken china left forgotten, as the Chūnin rushed out of his apartment. The rain pelting down, lightning flashing across the black clouds. Cold water droplets hit the brunette as he raced towards the source of the demonic chakra. Determined to get there before anything disastrous happens, he forced more chakra into his legs, propelling him faster.
BOOM
A shockwave slammed into him, sending him flying like a discarded rag doll. Colliding with several different objects, before smashing into a nearby building. Sliding down the cracked wall, Iruka remain unconscious, crumpled on the muddy ground. Slowly he regained consciousness, feeling returning as his mind rebooted itself. Ignoring the thumbing in his head, and the dull pain running down his entire back, he began moving once again. As he neared his destination, he spotted three Anbu roof hopping in the general direction of the hospital. Hazel eyes followed them, his gaze fixed on a familiar mob of gravity defining hair. A small flash of sun kissed spiky hair caught his attention, a protective feeling rose in his chest at the sight. With his mind set, he ran towards the hospital, ready to show the silver haired Anbu what happens when he breaks a promise.
Slowing down he walked into the building paying no attention to anyone else in the emergency room, he walked through the double doors leading into the hospital itself. Moving through the different sections, his feet carrying him towards the isolation wards.
Tiger and Eagle were station at the entrance to the isolation wards, conversing quietly with one another. The sound of fast approaching feet echoed through the deserted hallway, looking in the direction of the sound both noticed Iruka. Eagle was going to stop the Chūnin but Tiger grabbed his arm stopping him.
"He's not a threat to the boy. He won't harm him." whispered Tiger, as he watched the teacher walk pass them, slamming the double doors open without a care. Both Anbu leant over to watch him continue down the corridor. "Come on, I'm not missing this." stated the masked Anbu with a hint of excitement, pulling his confused comrade with him.
Umino was beyond pissed, he was furious. His protectiveness of the blonde grow over the past few years of spending time with the child. Some of his friends said he's a 'Mother Hen' when it comes to the boy, he would never admit it out loud, but they were right. Reaching Naruto's room, he hurled to the door open, noticing Kakashi going to grab a kunai but freezing when he saw the brunette.
Brown eyes hardened dangerously at the sight of the unmasked Anbu, the protectiveness flared within him as he walked towards Hatake. A shiver ran down his spine at the murderous look the teacher was glaring at him. That look as solely fixed on him. His normally intelligent mind, gone with the wind, as he didn't know what to do. The next thing he knew was the wind was knocked out of him, doubling over he gasped for air.
"That's what happens Hatake, when you break your promise to me." stated Iruka as he retracted his clenched fist.
"But Iruka..." breathed out the older male as he got back to his feet.
SLAP
A massive red hand print decorated Kakashi's cheek, Sarutobi stood there amused, watching the two interact with each other.
"But Iru-Chan..." big mastake, his sentence was cut off with another slap to the other cheek. Grabbing hold of the fallen ninja, Iruka pulled him to his feet smirking in satisfaction at the two adoring hand prints on his face.
"Don't Iru-chan me Hatake." pulling out a kunai he pressed it against Kakashi's groin. "Now listen to me, and listen to me, very closely." making sure he has the silver haired undivided attention, he continued. "If anything happens to Naruto like this again. I will personally castrated you." pushing the blade harder against his groin. "Do I make myself, clear?" he asked in his teacher's voice.
"Crystal." simply stated Kakashi, his single eye never daring to leave the others.
"Good." pocketing the offending weapon he let go off the shinobis top. "Good evening Hokage-sama." bowing to the older man, as if nothing happened.
"Good evening to you Iruka." answered the old man, chuckling slightly. Iruka walked over to the sleeping blonde, brushing aside a few stray hairs.
"How did he get like this." all but whispered the teacher, his eyes softly watching the younger boy sleep.
"It seems like he was cornered before being attacked." explained the Third gravely. "They wrote on across his chest 'Demon Scum' with a sharp instrument, most likely a kunai."
"Do you have any idea who done this to him?" asked Iruka, his tone eerily calm. Not once taking his eyes of the boy.
"Unfortunately, we don't. However, I have several Anbu investigating as well as Inoichi is meeting me here."
"If you find out please give me the names of the arseholes who violated him, so I can slice of their dicks and force it down their throats." asked Iruka calmly, looking the old man in the eye. Kakashi on the other hand paled slightly as he subconsciously covering his groin.
"You wanted to see me, Hokage-sama?" asked Inoichi Yamanaka, as he entered the room.
"Thank you for coming Inoichi." greeted the Third. "Iruka, Kakashi. Both of you go home and rest. I'll send for both of you tomorrow morning." promised Sarutobi stopping Iruka before he could even argue.
"Hai, Hokage-sama." answered the two men. Seizing the opportunity, Kakashi grabbed hold of Iruka and flickered them away. Leaving the older shinobi in silence.
"Am I missing something?" asked a bewildered mind walker, looking at the spot which the pair recently occupied. "Actually I don't even want to know. What is it that you are wanting me to do?" he inquired looking between the patient and the Third.
"I want you to enter the boys' mind, so we can get the necessary Intel on who attacked him. Also..." a deep sigh left the older man's lips, sorrowful eyes resting on the fragile child. "Also, I want you to find out why he wants to die." gravelly finished the Third, he eyes never leaving the blonde. Inoichi stood there shocked at the final statement, this six year old boy wanted to die. A sense of paternal sadness washed over him, as he thought of his own little girl wanting to die. Pushing those emotions down, the mind walker began to get to work. Pulling a nearby chair closer to the bed, Inoichi made the necessary hands sign to enter the blonde's broken mind.
Drip...Drip...Drip...
Inoichi stood ankle deep in murky water, over head lights flickering giving an uneasy feel to the place.
'A sewer?' he thought as he took in his surroundings. Big and small pipes ran either side of the corridor; cautiously he walked over to them. The hair on the back of his neck stood to attention, goosebumps spreading over his arms. The raw power of the Kyuubi's chakra could be felt, radiating off the pipes. A warm, carefree chakra spread though the others, each trying to cancel the other out. Walking down the corridor, he notices that some pipes were bright purple, cracks running all over the pipes. 'A power struggle?'
Several pipes began to rattle violently, some breaking the brackets which held them in place. In seconds pipies began to bulge in places, causing massive cracks to appear. Red and blue chakra seeped through the cracks, making the air denser by the second.
BOOM
The pipes along with large chunks of the corridor exploded, sending massive chunks of debris fly in all directions. Inoichi didn't have the time to react, subsequently, he too was sent flying. The last thing the mind walker remembered was seeing the ceiling collapsing on top of him.
Silence held its ghostly grip on the occupants', as they waited for the Yamanaka to report his findings. The older blonde's eyes flew open, his arms instinctively covering his head. An wrinkled eyebrow rose in curiosity, waiting for the older blonde to explain.
Lowering his arms, Inoichi let out a staggered breath as he gazed intently at the sleeping blonde. Something warm and wet trickled down the front of his face. Lifting a hand up he wiped some of the liquid off his face. Instantly he knows what it was by just the texture of it. Blood. A warm fuzzy feeling spread through his head, looking at the Anbu standing behind him, healing his injury.
"What happened?" inquired the old man, a sense of worry underlining his question. Gathering his thoughts, the mind walker reported his findings.
"Both his and the Kyuubi's' chakra are clashing, violently." explained the blonde. "There were some areas which the chakra wasn't flowing, and in other places, one outmatched the other."
"So essentially a fight for control." asked the Third, his face looking older than it was. "Did you find anything else before you left his mind?"
"No. The corridor I ended up in was a sewer. I was barely there for a few minutes before the pipes exploded." answered the Yamanaka. "However, I could and try to enter his mind again, and hope that the something doesn't happen again." mentally Inoichi wished he wouldn't have to, but from the look his superior was giving him, he'll have to.
"Second time the charm." he weakly joked as he performed the jutsu again.
This time around, he was standing in a deserted street. A cold breeze moved around him, causing a shiver to run down his spine. Taking in his surroundings he noticed he was still in the village, a small noise caught his attention. Hiding behind a street lamp was a child, no more than four or five. Moving towards the child, he noticed it was Naruto. His ocean blue eyes filled with fear and pain. It wasn't until the older mind walker was right next to him, that he notice that the boy was covered in cuts and bruises, some still bleeding. He was about to see if the boy was alight before;
"There's the little brat! Get Him!" the boys eyes widened in fear, as he saw people running towards him. In a blink of an eye the child was running down the road as fast as his legs could carry him. Inoichi couldn't do anything to stop the mob from chasing the boy; they passed through him like smoke. The memory dissolved once Naruto and his attackers were out of site, in its place was a new one, but this time it was different.
Both blondes were standing in a dark hallway, not a sound could be heard other than the Childs heavy breathing. Naruto looked down the hallway, waiting for someone to come and tell him off for breaking in. But nobody came. As quietly as he could be made his way down the dark hallway, until he came to a door. Shakily he turned the door knob, hearing a click, he entered the room.
The room like the hallway was shrouded in darkness, only the moon rays penetrated the closed blinds. A four piece table stood in the middle of the room, dust coating every visible surface. Looking around he noticed some photos decorating the window seals and the odd picture decorating the wall. Leaving the room he continued down the corridor until he came to the end, where two doors stood. For some reason the one on the left spoke out to him. Following his instincts he opened the door. Inoichi simply watched.
The moon shone through the uncovered window, giving the pass a serine feel. Stepping into the room, the whiskered cheeked boy noticed it was a nursery. A cot stood underneath the window, filled with cuddly toys. A rocking chair in the corner of the room, with a book on the cushion. The walls were painted in pastel colours, giving a calm and warm feel to the room, clouds dotted around the walls. Walking up to the cot, he looked inside at the different stuffed animals. As he looked at them all, a small fox caught his eye. Reaching in he picked up the toy, for a while he stared at it, as though he should know it. A memory flashed into his mind.
He was lying on his back; the room was bright as the sun shone through the window. It was blocked out by a large shadow; he raised his chubby arms up at the person. Soft laughter came from the person standing over him; they picked up an object from the bottom of his cot. A squeal of pure delight came as the small fox was brought in front of him. Arms and legs moved excitedly as the soft toy was lowed, into his hands. Holding onto the animal, he brought it down to him, cuddling it as tightly as he could.
"You like that toy, don't you, Naruto?" gently asked the women, a motherly smile never leaving her face. In return she got a bright smile, full of joyful laugh.
Inoichi watched the different emotions flash across Naruto's sapphire eyes, as he looked at the stuffed animal in his hands.
Naruto snapped out of his thoughts, as he felt warm tears run down his dirty cheeks. Nervously, he brought the toy closer, as though it was going to disappear. Pressing against his chest, a feeling of belonging filled his chest. Tears trickled down his scarred cheeks, feeling the tears he tightened his grip on the toy. His toy.
'So...this is was home.' thought the older male, taking in the rest of the room. Moments passed as the pair stood in silence, the occasional sniffle filled the otherwise quiet room. Calming down, Naruto wiped away the tears, still clutching the stuffed animal. With a final look around his old room, Naruto made his way towards the final door, nervously he opened the door.
Inside stood a made king-size bed, as though the occupants' made it earlier that day. Either side of the bed were two bedside tables a picture standing on the left hand side one. Along one of the walls stood a tall wardrobe, and on the opposite side were a set of chest of draws. Decorating the chest of draws were different bits and bobs, what caught his attention was a medium size jewellery box. Pulling the wooden box closer he examined it, on the lid was a symbol of some sorts but he couldn't make it out due to all the dust on it. Taking a deep breath he blew, causing all the dust to fly into the air. On the boxes lid was a swirl symbol, similar to what Konoha shinobi wore on the back of their uniforms. With care, he carried both the box and his toy over to the bed. Once he got comfortable on the large bed, he opened the box. The moment he did, a soft melody drifted out of it, a strong sense of nostalgia filled his chest as the melody played. Another memory flashed into his mind.
He was sitting on his mums crossed legs, his head resting against her stomach. Reaching over to her bedside table, she brought over her jewellery box. Big blue eyes followed the polished box, as it was placed in front of them both. Lifting the lid, a soft melody floated out of the box, while the music was playing his mother started to hum along with the melody. A wave of calm washed over him as his mum hummed along. While she was humming along to the lullaby, she pulled out a brooch.
The brooch was a butterfly, it sparkled in the light. Precious stones decorated the brooch, fascinated with the sparkly object he went to touch it.
"You can't touch it, Naruto." stated his mum, as she pulled it out of his reach. "This was my mums and her mums before that." explained the women, when Naruto started to whimper.
As quickly as the memory can, it was gone. Looking into the jewellery box, he noticed the brooch straight away, shakily he reached in and picked it up, it was cold to the touch. Running his fingers over it, he felt as though his mum was there comforting him. Putting the piece of jewellery back in its place he shut the lid, cutting off the peaceful melody. The room fell silent once again, looking around the room again; he noticed the picture frame next to him, on the bedside table. Picking the photo up, he wiped the thick dust obscuring the photo.
A happy couple were smiling up at him. The women had long, red hair, her eyes a soft lilac colour, full of happiness and joy. Behind her stood a familiar looking man. His blonde spiky hair, his blue eyes a shade lighter than Naruto's.
"It can't be..." mumbled Naruto as he stared at the older blonde. His eyes darted to the large wardrobe, sliding off the bed he walked over to the wardrobe. Standing in front of the it, it looked more menacing than it did before. Taking a deep breath, he opened the main compartment. There inside were different clothes both male and female; carefully as he dared he began looking through the clothes. Nearing the end of the men's clothes, he abruptly stopped, frozen in shock. There hanging up in front of him was a white cape, with orange flames at the bottom of the cape. Writing ran down the middle of the cape, ocean blue eyes widened in shock as he read the letters.
'Fourth Hokage'
"No, it can't..." running back to the bed he picked up the photo. The man smiling up at him was the Fourth Hokage; the resemblance to the head on the Hokage Mountain was identical. His eyes wondered to the smiling women, which the Fourth was holding, his hand resting on her swollen stomach. He couldn't take his eyes off her smile...
"You like that toy, don't you, Naruto?" gently asked the women, a motherly smile never leaving her face. In return she got a bright smile, and a joyful laugh.
"Kaa-chan...Tou-san..." whispered Naruto as warm tears fell from his whiskered cheeks. His heart flipped at the thought of finally having a loving family. A mum and dad. The memory dissolved as the small child cried himself to sleep, for the first time in his orphaned life; he slept with a smile on his face.
Inoichi found himself standing in an empty void; all around him was blackness, and get he could still see clearly. Footsteps echoed behind him, turning around he tensed at the site of a cloak figure walking towards him. Steadily the figure walked towards him, not stopping as it was right in front of him. The figure walked right through him and continued walking to an unknown destination. Spinning on his heel, he walked after it. What seemed like hours passed the blonde as he followed the cloaked figure. Suddenly it came to an abrupt stop, turning slightly a smirk spread across ruby lips. Then the figure was gone, the blonde stood there before a blood curdling scream filled his ears. He was in a forest, its tall trees blocking out any moonlight, ravens perched on the tree branches. Another blood curdling scream filled the forest, facing the direction of the scream, he ran towards it.
There pinned to a tree was Naruto, blood pouring from two puncture wounds. The figure from before held the dripping knife, slender fingers held it tightly.
"You're going to die Naruto. It is going to be slow and painful. Just how I killed your mother, a slow and painful death." stated the women; her voice full of promise. "Is that what you want? To be with your parents again?" asked the cloaked figure, watching the boy. "Beg for death, and I'll be a merciful god."
His body began to shut down, in seconds his last staggered breath escaped his pale lips. Both adults stood there staring at the deceased child, the silence was broken when the women started to laugh. Cold cruel laughter filled the night sky, the memory faded into blackness.
Opening his eyes he looked around for his superior, finding no sign of the old man or anyone else he left the room. His mind running in overdrive as he digested everything he saw. No matter how much he tried, he couldn't stop the feeling of heart ache felling his chest. He was soo wrapped up in his own head he didn't hear the reception nurse calling him. Apologising to the nurse, she just sweetly smiled and informed him that the Hokage would see him in his office once he was done. Thanking the receptionist he made his way through the deserted streets, towards the Hokage Mansion. Reaching the central building, he made his way towards the main office.
"Enter!" taking a deep breath, he entered the room.
Cerulean eyes stared up at the high ceiling, feeling himself float in the water.
'Am I really dead?' he thought as he just laid there, floating.
"No you are not. But you will be when I'm through with you!" snarled a dominate voice, the water rippling from the sound waves.
'Huh...I must be dead, if I've got an annoying voice with me.' a blast of K.I exploded out of nowhere, startling the five year old. Arms fraying everywhere as he tried to stop himself from drowning, several times he swallowed the murky water.
"Stand you pathetic human." spat out the angered voice, doing as he was told, he shakily got to his feet. Blazing red eyes stared transfixed on the tiny human.
"Wh-Who are you?" stuttered the blonde as he tried not to let his fear show. A irritated growl resonated within the chamber, vibrating off the walls.
"I am The Great Kyūbi No Yōko!" boomed the Kyuubi with pride. Azul eye widened like saucers:
"You're the Kyuubi…" disbelief evident in his voice. Here laying before him was the enemy which caused soo much devastation to the village and his chance of having a family. "You're the reason my parents are dead. You're the reason why I'm treated like dirt. All of my sadness is because of YOU!" screamed Naruto letting all his anger and pain out on the reason why he was so lonely.
"Watch how you talk to me you good for nothing human." threatened the Nine-tails, her razor sharp teeth bared against the boy.
"NO!" snapped back the blonde. "I hate you!" his blood boiling from his anger. "I wish you would die!"
"You die, I die." she snapped her mouth shut, after she realised what she let slip. Luck wasn't on her side as Naruto heard what she said.
"You die if I die?" his mind whizzing with a way to use this piece of information. Contrary to popular belief, he was pretty smart. Not genius smart, but above average smart. All his time he spent observing the shinobi of the village, even the Hokage, he picked up different things.
"That still doesn't change anything. I still want to die, so I can finally be with my family, which you took away from me!" his anger reigniting.
"I'm not the one who took them away from you!" she shouted back, something about the boy made her act this way.
"LIAR!"
Two days passed for Naruto since his encounter with the Kyuubi, more like a shouting match. Today was the day he would be discharged from his sterile prison. Changing as quickly as he could he hope to leave before…
"So, you thought you'll leave before I could arrive?" asked Iruka appearing out of nowhere, scaring the crap out of an unexpecting blonde.
"Don't do that Iruka, you scarred me." whined the boy, clutching his racing heart. The academy teacher laughed at the boy, earning him a death glare. Seeing that his glare wasn't having the desired effect, he crossed his arms and pouted.
"Oh, don't be like that Naruto." still the blonde pouted. "I'll by you ramen." bribed the teacher, he knew it was a low blow, but he knew Naruto wouldn't turn down ramen. The boys eyes practically lit up at the thought of ramen.
"All I can eat?" bartered the child, knowing what game the brunette was playing.
'Two can play that game.'
"Four bowls." stated the Chūnin, thinking about his poor wallet even after four bowls of the highly salted noodles.
"Six?"
"Four."
"Six?!"
"Four, or none at all." the ultimatum was given. Naruto pouted even more at the thought of only four bowls.
"Fine." Huffing in defeat, he walked over to the older male. "Your cruel Iruka, denying me the food of the gods!"
"I haven't denied you anything so stop your moaning. Otherwise no ramen." Smirking at the look on the boy's whiskered face. "Come on, let's get some ramen." Instructed Iruka while holding out his hand for the younger boy to take it. Shyly Naruto took hold of Iruka's hand, a small blush coloured his cheeks. Smiling down at the boy, the teacher took his little charge out of the hospital, towards the little ramen stand.
A chilly breeze passed through the village, a half-moon filled the starry night sky. Clouds floated along the starry blanket, blocking the moons rays from coating the land below. Two people walked through a rundown district, neither one talking.
"This isn't a place for a five year old to live Kakashi." Stated Iruka as he took in his surroundings. This was the first time he's been through the rundown neighbourhood.
"There's nothing that can be done Iruka, you know this as well as I do." Commented the Anbu, as he glanced over to the younger male carrying a sleeping Naruto.
"I know that, but it doesn't mean he should be considered an outcast. He's only a child, not a demon." Coal coloured eye softened slightly at hearing the brunette, a small smile rose on his masked lips.
"As long as he has people who care for him, he'll be fine." A deep red blush spread across the Chunin's face at the comment. The pair continued in a comfortable silence until they reached the blondes 'home'.
Unlocking the door they proceeded into the sparsely decorated apartment, both noticed evidence of vandalism. While Iruka got Naruto changed out of his clothes into a set of frog pj, Kakashi did a full inspection of the place. His anger started to get the better of him as he notices that the condition of the apartment as barely liveable.
'Sensei and Kushina would be turning in their graves at how their only child was been treated.' He was brought out of his mental ranting when he hear humming coming from the only bedroom. Stealthily he walked to the open door, peering inside he noticed Naruto was tucked in with a stuff cuddly toy. The Anbu stood there watching the brunette picking up the blondes discarded clothes, humming a melody as he went. Clearing his throat loud enough for the teacher to hear him, Kakashi watched in amusement at the deepening blush spreading across his scarred face and neck.
Moving out of the somewhat tidier bedroom, Iruka and Kakashi stood in the darkened hallway, neither wanting to break the silence.
"I'm going to stay the night, just encase he needs anything." Stated the brunette, breaking the silence. "This is your last night guarding him, isn't it?" asked the teacher already knowing the answer. Hatake nodded his head, still saying nothing. A tired sigh passed the brunettes lips; bidding the Anbu goodnight he left to sort himself out for the night.
Tiny feet slapped against a cold hard surface as they sprinted down a deserted corridor. Heavy panting filled the corridor along with shouts and screams, following the fleeing person.
"Get him!" screamed a faceless women "Skin him alive!" fear pounded away at his frantic heart, as he fled for his life. Still the women chased after him, screaming and shouting so high that it wasn't humanly possible. Spotting a door coming up on his right, he glanced over his shoulder, eyes widened at the sight.
In place of the women, was a ghastly creature; its skin a clammy grey, long greasy hair as black as the night. Her eyes a soulless black, her claw like hands equipped with razor sharp nails. The thing chasing the unfortunate child looked like something out of a horror film, how it ran on its hands and feet.
Second by second the creature got closer, and yet the door seemed to be the same distance away. Glancing over his shoulder he saw that the monster wasn't there anymore, skidding to a complete stop, he stood there, waiting and listening.
Silence.
Turning back around he came face to face with the wretched creature. Pure and utter fear showed on the blondes face, cerulean widened like saucers. It screamed at him; its mouth wide open, showing its needle like teeth and its forked tongue. Naruto stood there petrified; his heart hammering away at his ribcage, something warm trickled down his trouser legs.
A clawed hand rose up, ready to strike him dead. Clamping his eyelids shut, he waited for the swift decent into darkness, but it never came. A warm hand cupped his whiskered cheek, flinching violently for the sudden touch, he slowly opened his eyes. Instead of the mutilated monster, hell went on killing him, stood a woman with long red hair.
Naruto just stood there rooted to the spot, speechless. The women knelt down in front of him so they were the same height.
"Long time no see, Naruto." Softly greeted the women, as she kept eye contact with him. All he could do was stare at those almond shaped eyes. Those lilac… realisation hit him like a ton of bricks.
"Mum?" he whispered, not believing what was happening. Kushina smiled how she did in the photos he's seen. "Mum!" flinging himself into her, she caught him, tightening her hold on her baby boy, bringing him closer.
"Naruto…" happy tears were falling down her cheeks as she held her son the first time in four years. "I've missed you so much, Naruto." All he cared about that he was finally cuddling his Kaa-chan.
The corridor around them slowly faded away into nothing; loosening her hold on the smaller boy she locked her lilac eyes onto his puffy cobalt ones.
"Naruto." Making sure she had the boys' undivided attention, she continued. "Why do you want to die?"
"I have no one!" cried out Naruto tears falling down his cheeks. "I'm alone; I just want to be with you and Tou-san."
"Put we are." Wiping away his tears, Kushina continued. "We will always be with you. Right here." Pointing to his heart. "We are with you always." Sniffling Naruto hugged his mum tightly.
"I love you, mum." Her heart swelled, kissing the top of his head she smiled.
"I love you too, Naruto." They stayed like enjoying the moment. "It's time for me to go Naru-chan. But we'll meet again." Slowly she dissolved away, leaving a warm feeling in the blonde's heart.
(Insert Line)
Naruto and Iruka stood outside the ninja academy, the blonde stood there taking in the building. Parents of the other students were muttering amongst each other, some more vocal than others.
"Ready, Naruto?" nodding his head, they walked into the building leaving gossiping parents.
A bell ran through the empty halls signalling the end of the day, in seconds the halls were packed with students fleeing the hell hole which was school. A mob of spiky blonde hair made its way down the busy corridor, an annoyed look on his face.
'What was his problem, being nasty to me! I've done nothing to him.' He was knocked out of his mental ranting when someone shoved him into the wall.
"Out of my way you demon scum!" spat the bully, his eyes full of hate. Biting his tongue, Naruto got off the floor shooting the kid a glare, he dust himself down and walked of, not giving the boy a further glance. The bully's face hardened, with one look at his gang they went after the blonde.
A mass of parents and students were standing around the entrance, some were greeted excitedly by student and parents alike. When Naruto walked out of the entrance, some of the parent's joyful eyes turned cold in a matter of seconds, following his every move.
"Don't go anywhere near that boy, he's bad." Muttered some of the adults to their children, seeing how their parents were looking at him, they too gave him the same look.
Ignoring all the hateful stares he spotted a solitary swing under a large oak tree. Walking over to it, he sat on the wooden seat, watching the how the parents interacted with their children.
"Hey." Greeted a small child, no older than him, with brown spiky hair and two red fanged shaped tattoos on his cheeks. Sapphire eyes just stared at him, seeing if he was going to be mean to him.
"Hi." Replied the blonde, still watching the brunette in front of him.
"I'm Inuzuka Kiba, what's yours?" introduced Kiba, holding out his hand. Looking at the hand then to the haze, he slowly took the offered hand.
"Uzumaki Naruto." He waited for the normal reaction which came when he told someone his name. But it didn't come, it was given the complete opposite;
"Nice to meet you Naruto." Answered Kiba, shaking Naruto's hand enthusiastically. A toothy grin plastered on his tanned face. Unable to resist the contagious smile, Naruto gave one back, a smile, a real smile.
While the two boys were grinning like lunatics, they didn't notice the cold stares being shot their way.
"He is soo going to get it tomorrow." Threatened the bully, creaking knuckles, his mindless goons nodding in agreement.
There we have we have it chapter 33 :-) I hope you enjoyed it, please don't forget to review/pm, or Alert and fav:-) Until next time :-)