Dark Revelations

Kushina was preening at the version of herself that had been shown. The fact that it proved that her baby was a mothers boy was beside the fact. It certainly did not stroke her ego in any way, nor did it give her bragging material to use against her husband in any way.

Just before she stopped her internal celebrating and most definitely not do anything such as bragging a book appeared in her lap. The book itself was old, very old. Tsunade noticed her holding it.

"Kushina what is that?" asked the hokage, not just out of curiosity but also out of concern as they had been taken to what can only be described as a hole in space/time, and were being used for some beings amusement. That was something that all the kage were not amused about.

With every one sitting at the table with a meal in front of them and most looking at the red head in question.

"It would appear to be a book with some back ground information about that world."explained the red head getting a look of curiosity from the others. True they knew some information about the world such as weapons and devices. Things that had shocked them as that world was obviously much more advanced than their own.

The one thing that they did not know was how this all began. Was it like the bloodlines? Was it like the appearance of chakra? There was many things that they did not know and this could potentially answer them. So it was with a vote between the five kage that it was decided that the more information that they had the better off they would be.

Thus it was that Kushina started to read.

' The first immortal, a man who had once been a warlord and leader of his people, this was until a plague swept through the towns under his rule' This caused Tsunade to flinch as it was common knowledge that plagues were one of the most devastating things to happen to a town in the elemental nations. They also just so happen to be one of the things that brought the nations together if only for no other reason than to prevent it from spreading to their own people.

'This man, one Alexander Corvinus. The first immortal, had three children. Two of which shared his condition whilst the last had been a mortal. William, one of the twins was bitten by a wolf causing the birth of the first werewolf. The first generation of which were rabid and volatile, attacking anyone and everyone.'

This caused the shinobi to cringe. Such a thing would be horrible to try and contain.

"However the other brother was bitten by a bat, Thus creating the first of the vampires, who despite their considerable strengths had a couple of debilitating weaknesses. Marcus upon seeing the plague of wolves being created went to one of the local nobles Victor. The man who was upon his death bed agreed to become a vampire to help control the spread of the wolves.

Despite the good intentions of Marcus he could not take into account others and thus began the blood war between the two sides." The kage were nodding at this as it was normally good intentions that lead down the path to war. They only needed to look at the most recent one to see an example. The akatsuki themselves were created in a plan for peace which was twisted by one of its members for their own purposes.

' The mortal son was lost to history with only Alexander himself keeping track of that part of his blood line. With the death of his wife however the old lord fell into depression and left for some time. Only to return and fade away into history.'

Kushina smiled at the explanation it explained the hatred as the war between the two sides had been ongoing for over a millennium. It also explained how her other self had become entangled in all of this.

After some small talk the groups headed into the viewing room again and waited for it to begin.

Chapter 2

Hungary, Ördögház Mansion

Elder Amelia arrived by way of Vienna two days after Kraven fled. The elegant dark haired woman was absolutely furious about the state of affairs and had already been apprised of the situation with Kraven by the Vampire Council. On the other hand; Amelia was immensely pleased that the panic caused by Kraven abandoning his post was taken care of by Viktor's 'daughter' Selene. Amelia always felt Selene had far more potential than just a Death Dealer. Thus Selene was called to Amelia's chambers to discuss things with the Elder. Selene was welcomed in by a surprisingly gregarious Amelia who always had a cold and aloof air as far as Selene was concerned (not that Selene had any room to talk).

Amelia gave a slight smile of approval to Selene as the two sat down together. "It seems your cool head and bravery saved the Coven from potential chaos." said Amelia. "Viktor will be very proud of you. The Vampire Council is actually considering nominating you to take Kraven's place in the Regency as our first Female Regent. That's quite an accomplishment. Of course, many already consider you a princess given you are Viktor's daughter. Tell me what you think of the idea Selene. I must admit that the tile Regentess Selene seems very fitting for you."

The shinobi were confused, why would a race as strong as the vampires not have had a female regent? They did not realise that they had already answered their question. If older humans were stiff when it came to tradition how bad would it be if the entire population lived for centuries?

They were also shocked to find out that Selene was essentially a princess. This was however cleared up by the book which had flashed to attract the attention of those around it. It explained the connection between a sire and fledgling was similar to parent and child although that was entirely up to said pair.

Selene's brown eyes turned hard. "With all due respect Elder Amelia; I am a warrior for the vampire cause and have no desire to be involved in politics. I could never accept such a role as long as there are lycans to be hunted….and even then I would not want it."

Amelia gave an unreadable smile, "As I expected of you Selene. Still, both Covens that saw your actions are clamouring for it. I'm afraid you may have to acclimate to your new fame even if you don't accept the title."

The Death Dealer sighed. 'Those insufferable aristocrats are weaklings and a disgrace to the Vampires. Why the Elders tolerate them is beyond me.' "Hopefully that will all blow over soon." said Selene.

Amelia indulged the younger vampiress by letting her think for a few moments before she said, "Let's set that aside for now Selene. Tell me what your experience was with this Naruto person. I've seen the video feed but you and you alone were brave enough to face this being…."

….

"Bloody politicians" growled Kushina getting nods of agreement from the kage who all agreed with her. The 3rd and 4th hokage quickly glanced at Tobirama due to him the council was given the power it had. Tobirama however understood the necessary evil of such councils, he had created the council to help keep things running as it would be impossible for a kage to keep an eye upon everything that was happening at the same time. But during war when they had to go to the front.

Then what was supposed to be a temporary thing was empowered by a drowning and exhausted sarutobi after the fox attack. Neither were pleased with the civilians at this.

Andrássy Avenue, Budapest

Naruto was walking around the city of Budapest in the evening. The sun was still out and honestly he hoped to run into Selene once the night came down. The news that Kraven fled had the kitsune puzzled at what to do. He considered going back to Ördögház Mansion to see about negotiating with whoever was in charge now but something was instinctually telling him not to be too hasty….and Naruto always trusted his instincts. As it was Naruto was basically being a tourist. He'd been to the Hungarian State Opera House on a tour and was considering getting tickets to see a performance there. Eastern and Western styles of theatre were so different from one another that Naruto thought he might treat himself. The kitsune son of Alexander Corvinus soon had his plans derailed though….he realized he was being followed….

Razahir "Raze" Khemse was a very powerful lycan and Lucian's right hand man. Since the plan to ambush Vampire Elder Amelia had been called off because of Kraven's failure the big, dark skinned lycan had been looking for this Naruto person. The video feeds that Kraven supplied the lycans with gave them general idea on his appearance but actually searching for a 'Naruto' in Budapest turned up a Naruto Corvinus staying at the Corinthia Hotel. With Raze was another lycan who was an expert tracker named Ildi.*① In contrast to Raze's hulking, muscular build she was lean and lithe. Likewise he was shaved bald and she had her long brown hair in a pony tail. He was built for power and her for speed. Ildi had tracked an odd fox like scent from Naruto's room at the Corinthia Hotel to the Opera House before the pair actually spotted Naruto physically exiting the historic building.

Ildi whispered, "That's him Raze; the blonde in the gray trench coat and suit."

Kiba could not help himself, his animal instincts were screaming at him. The man was an alpha and incredibly powerful. While his lust for the girl was rising thus he was stuck between a rock and a hard place in his thoughts as the girl was obviously under the alphas protection.

The Inuzuka, being a pack mentality such things were important as they helped keep the hierarchy within the clan clear and simple. Alphas were to be obeyed and females from the clan were to be earned through strength.

Raze nodded. The big lycan was always astounded by just how good Ildi's nose was. "This should be simple enough." said Raze in his deep voice. "Lucien's orders are to take this Naruto back to the new den where Lucien can talk to him in person. Hopefully we won't have to rough him up too much."

"I'd rather rough him up a bit." said Ildi. "He looks like fun." She licked her lips and adjusted her black biker's jacket.

An image was shown of the two, one was a large man close to A in stature This got a nod of approval from the raikage as it was obvious that the man had put in time and effort for his build, even if he had lycanthropy to maintain the look was not an easy task. The other was a tiny slip of a girl, though she was small it was clear that she knew her way around a fight. This along with the tracking capability also impressed the shinobi, after all one did not need to be brimming with muscles to win.

Between her worn jacket and her hole filled denims Ildi look like a punk rock girl or a biker.

Raze shook his head. He could never tell what wavelength Ildi was on. She was a wild girl that most of the male lycans feared. While she was hot to look at she was dangerous. Whether Ildi meant she wanted to beat up the blonde or have sex with him was a mystery that Raze wasn't sure he wanted to solve. "Let's just capture him quietly Ildi."

Unfortunately for those within the room Kiba decided to give a slight insight into a ferals mind. The Inuzuka being the closest they had to an actual lycan to get such insights. Though they were sure that they were going to regret it.

"Well who said that the two had to be mutually exclusive." the dog boy said with a wide grin and a lecherous smile. This naturally caused some from the other villages to raise a questioning eyebrow whilst those from konoha face-palmed.

Giving a jaunty salute she said eagerly, "Aye aye captain!" and took off in a trot with Raze a few yards behind her. Raze trailed her at an easy pace around the opera house into the shadow of the building when Ildi suddenly stopped running and stood there staring off into space. Raze asked Ildi what was wrong and got absolutely no response. The younger lycan was mesmerized.

Raze was puzzled at what to do only to hear Naruto's voice from the shadows behind him. "She can't hear you lycan. Now tell me why you two have been stalking me."

The big lycan whipped around and was going to yell, 'What did you do to her?!' but his voice died in his throat when he saw two slitted red eyes blazing in the shadows. He couldn't see anything else of Naruto's form.

"You needn't worry, I didn't hurt her." said the kitsune in a menacing voice. "Of course, that doesn't mean I can't. Now tell me what it is you want my lycan friend."

Raze was a brave person and never backed down to anyone except Lucien. But the red eyes and the focused killing intent on him was overwhelming. Raze wanted to curl up in a ball and hide himself. 'No wonder that idiot Kraven ran! This is unreal!' thought Raze desperately. Gathering his wits Raze said fearfully, "Our Leader wishes to speak with you. He asked us to bring you to him."

Naruto seemed to materialize out of the shadows and became visible. He said, "And why would I want to meet this leader of yours?"

The lycan growled, "Because he said so, that's good en-"

Naruto's katana appeared from nowhere and was drawing the tiniest bit of blood from Raze's throat. The kitsune growled, "That's not good enough. Know your place or I'll erase you and you cute friend over there in an instant lycan. Now give me a real reason before I get cross."

At this a chuckle quietly escaped from a certain redhead. "Ah intimidation and vague threats. An oldie but a goodie!" chirped the Uzumaki in a happy tone, far too happy for some in the room to feel entirely comfortable.

Raze was sweating as the katana gleamed menacingly. He wondered why no one noticed Naruto was holding him at sword point out in the open. Looking into Naruto's glowing red eyes he saw a hint of amusement mixed in with utter ruthlessness. Raze said in a shaky voice, "He can tell you where Kraven is."

Naruto''s blade vanished as the blonde walked up to the much larger man. "Tell this leader of yours to meet me at the Meat and Sauce Restaurant at 7:00 tonight. I'm in the mood for pulled pork and I'm sure he'd be happy to treat me. If he hasn't got the guts to show up then tell him to stop sending his scouts after me or they'll start disappearing." Naruto then vanished in a swirl of blue fox fire.

Ildi suddenly snapped out of her trance and said. "He's right around this corner –what the hell? Even his scent is gone!" Turning to Raze she said, "Raze, I lost him!" Then she looked at Raze. "What the fuck man? You look like you've been through hell!"

Raze normally would have taken offence but first of all he was too mentally exhausted from his encounter with the….monster Naruto; and secondly this was Ildi and knowing her it wasn't worth it to get in a fight. That and he had been through hell. "You've been in a trance Ildi. Naruto did something to you that made you zone out completely. Then he held me at sword point. I don't know what he is. We need to call Lucien." Getting out his cell phone Raze called Lucien and explained the situation. Lucien was less than thrilled to find out he had a dinner date and worse yet he had to pay for it. Still, Lucien trusted Raze. Raze soon turned off his phone and said. "Well, Lucien's not happy but he said he'd go. There is nothing left for us to do here. Let's head back."

Ildi normally would have ribbed Raze for being so frazzled but she could tell the big man was really out of sorts. She slapped his back in a friendly way and said, "Then let's get going big guy."

They never noticed Naruto was still there under an illusion in the shadows. 'So their leader's name is Lucien. It looks like I have a couple of hours to burn before dinner.' Looking over his map on his phone Naruto headed over to view the Liszt Academy of Music to admire the architecture.

….

Sakura could only shake her head with a chuckle. This was far to similar to some of the situations that she had found herself In with Naruto. The fact that he had managed to swindle himself a free meal out of such a situation was not as surprising as it should be. After all, Naruto had a habit of pulling off such ridiculous things on a daily occurrence.

Tsunade was silently chuckling. She had seen the boy and his luck in casinos. So to find out that the boys luck seemed to be a permanent fixture no matter which version of him it was just made her laugh. The fact that she could see the proud smirk on Kushina's face did not help her self control. The smug satisfaction mixed with pride that was on the red haired Uzumaki was so similar to her son that you could tell they were related without even knowing them.

The Meat and Sauce Restaurant

Lucien showed up at 7:00 P.M. sharp in less than the best mood. He had his eight of his people stationed around the area but the restaurant wasn't that big so he couldn't bring others in with him. The lycan leader was also a bit concerned because he hadn't seen his right hand man Raze so shaken up in centuries. The fact Raze even admitted he'd been frightened to Lucien (in private) was telling. From what Lucien had seen Kraven was always a coward but perhaps in the case of Naruto it was justified. At any rate, Lucien was dressed in his usual street clothes and decided to at least act respectful. That's when Lucien saw a blonde man with spiky hair wave him over.

The blonde kitsune said, "You must be Mister Lucien; I'm pleased to meet you. Please call me Naruto. I've got us a table towards the back. I trust you have a preference for meat?"

Lucien shook Naruto's hand and in spite of the fact Naruto seemed like an ordinary human Lucien could sense fathomless power oozing from this person. He also wondered how Naruto already knew his name in advance. It was very unsettling. He replied, "Nice to meet you too Naruto."

Soon the two were sitting and once their food arrived Naruto said, "Hmmm….This is pulled pork sandwich is excellent. So why were you looking for me Mister Lucien? Speak freely because no one else in this restaurant can hear or see a thing we're discussing….including those eight lycans you have watching from outside…." Naruto's eyes sparkled with mischief when Lucien got a look of surprise.

A snorted. It seemed that no matter where the boy when t that mischief side never left. It was no wonder that the boy and his brother got along so well. Looking over at the ninja from konoha however he almost burst out laughing at the Inuzuka who was staring at the food that was shown with undisguised want. He was almost certain that that clan was descended from these 'lycans' there were just too many similarities for them not to be

"I understand you have Mister Kraven's whereabouts. I'd be interested in that information. But I'm positive that isn't why you attempted to have me abducted. Tell me what it is you want Mister Lucien and perhaps we can come to an understanding."

Lucien was straightforward, "I'm interested in knowing if you are an enemy of the vampire race as I am." Lucien was wise enough to know Naruto was some sort trickster. "I'd also be interested in learning what you are. You feel similar to a lycan or a vampire but you are not."

Naruto interlaced his fingers and said, "You are correct. I'm neither a lycan nor a vampire. As for my business I don't consider the vampires my enemies any more than the lycans….but I do have issues with Kraven personally."

"If you're against Kraven then that makes all the vampires you enemies." said Lucien. "He's their Regent after all."

Naruto made a tsk sound and hissed, "Don't take me for a fool Mister Lucien! Kraven is their former Regent. He's been deposed and disgraced. The vampires might consider it a favour for me to eliminate him.

Lucien said, "It seems you're well informed Naruto; my apologies." 'Damn! I was hoping to gain his help but I can't even figure out what he is.' Taking a different tack, Lucien said, "You are aware of the true reasons behind the lycan-vampire war are you not?"

Naruto nodded. "You mean the enslavement of the lycans and the subsequent revolt? The situation was explained to me centuries ago. Genetically two races of cousins have been trying to commit genocide upon one another for centuries right under the noses of humanity which aren't even aware of the secret war because of the Cleaners. I'm not going to claim that I know everything but I certainly have a good idea. I take it you wish to get me to join you?"

"That was my hope." said Lucien.

"I'm not interested." said Naruto. "I've fought in many wars Mister Lucien but all of them had an end in sight. The lycans and vampire's war is endless and I'm staying out of it unless someone forces my hand….And trust me when I say you do not want that."

Shino nodded his head at this, "His argument is sound. Why? The war has been ongoing for thousands of years. Such a war only festers and becomes self perpetuating." said the aburame getting nods from those around him. None of them mentioned the fact that this Naruto had fought in many wars, it was not a thing that they wanted to ponder.

"I can't give you the information on Kraven's location then." said Lucien.

"That's a shame." said Naruto. "I suppose I'll just have to be patient until an answer to my dilemma presents itself."

"If you don't join the lycans then many will consider you and ally to the vampires you know." said Lucian in a matter of fact tone. "Not all people are as reasonable as I am Naruto."

Lucian felt his entire body paralysed by killing intent and Naruto's eyes lit up red and his canines lengthened. Lucian was shaking in fear as Naruto stood up and seemed to tower over him like an angry god. "Do not try to threaten me lycan." hissed Naruto. "I am a good friend but a terrible enemy. You'd best remember that. If I catch any of your people trying to spy on me they will cease to exist. This conversation is over. Good evening Mister Lucien."

With that Naruto vanished and left the shaking Lucian to pay for their meal….

….

"Never has truer words ever been said." Kiba laughed as it was well known that Naruto was a great friend to have no matter who you were, but to attract his ire was a quick way to have a very vicious retaliation.

"the boys entire clan was like that. It was one of the reasons that they were targeted. There skill with fuinjutsu and unorthodox was of thinking made them hard to predict and thus a very possible threat. One that was collectively decided to be ended, It was not a proud moment." Ohnoki explained as he had never been happy about that decision that his predecessor had made.

Not only was the results disastrous but so was the situation around it. There reputation had been almost irreversibly damaged not to mention their forces. In all honesty the attack on whirl pool had done more damage to the Iwa forces than all of the battles against konoha combined.

Corinthia Hotel

That night Naruto came out of his shower feeling calmed down again. It irked him that he didn't have Kraven's location but Lucian's indirect threat had genuinely pissed him off. He came out into his darkened room to a familiar presence….but not an unwelcome one. "Selene…." he said. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Selene was more or less perched on the post at the foot of the bed. "Tell me why your clothes smell like a lycan!" she said angrily.

Seeing the dark haired beauty so angry in the pale moonlight actually was fascinating to Naruto. 'How beautiful….' The way her eyes flashed in anger was enchanting to him. Naruto said. "If you must know I was questioning a lycan on Kraven's whereabouts. I was unsuccessful though."

"Did you kill him afterwards?" asked Selene slightly mollified.

Naruto shook his head. "Slaying someone in the middle of a restaurant in front of a crowd could make quite a scene you know. I have no desire to be on wanted posters across Europe; plus those poor Cleaners would have had an awful mess to clean up."

"You know about the cleaners?" asked Selene slightly surprised.

Naruto nodded in the moonlight. "I know a lot Selene; about the general war I mean. That aside, what brings you here? Not that I'm not happy to see you but it was unexpected…."

"You were easy to track down Naruto Corvinus." said Selene. "Your name is rather unique you know; you really should travel under a better alias."

"So you tracked me down while you were at Ördögház." Naruto smiled. "I supposed there aren't too many Naruto's in Budapest either." he said lightly.

"No, there aren't." replied Selene. She once again was feeling amused but was keeping up a hard front. She was irritated that Naruto had lowered himself to talking to a lycan.

Naruto threw his dirty clothing in the hamper for room service to clean. "I don't suppose you'd be willing to come down from that awkward position and talk with me would you? It looks uncomfortable." said the kitsune.

Selene stepped lightly onto the floor and said, "The vampires are very curious about you Naruto. Lady Amelia asked for me to seek you out."

"So that's why you're here Selene?" asked Naruto. "I was hoping you were here to visit; I rather enjoy your company."

The dark haired beauty blushed a tiny bit a looked away. "Actually I came to see you to get away from Ördögház." she said embarrassed. "It's become quite insufferable of late."

Naruto grinned showing his fangs. "So you used a mission from Lady Amelia to stay out after curfew. I knew there was a reason I liked you Selene."

Jiraiya could not help the occasional small giggles that escaped him as he was making notes in his ever present note pad. The boy was a gold mine. Even in their own version the boy and his magnetic personality had drawn the attention of many prominent females. Hell before he had died he had been in talks about a film based on his books, one of the stipulations was that Naruto had to be the male lead.

Normally Kushina would have put the old toad into traction by now but she was too amused by her sons actions and words with the women that he was flirting with. True she was still doing her thing as a mother and silently judging whether or not they are worthy of her baby. That however was something that she would not be able to do with her own sochi so she was doing it here.

Seeing he'd teased the Death Dealer enough, Naruto asked, "So what's so bad at Ördögház? Can you talk about it?"

Selene crossed her arms under her breasts. "I can talk about it. It's all your fault Naruto." Naruto raised an eyebrow and pointed at himself questioningly. "Yes; you Naruto Corvinus!" she said pointing at him.

"And how is it my fault?" asked Naruto curiously. "Aside of scaring off that pathetic coward Kraven I'm unaware of anything that I did wrong….Well, I guess I did roast that guard alive…." he said sounding puzzled.

Selene got a flat look and said. "That guard is inconsequential. You turned me into a celebrity!"

Naruto tried not to laugh. He really did. "Pfffft! How did I turn you into a celebrity of all things?" chuckled Naruto. "Selene; I have many powers but elevating someone into stardom is not among them!" he said as he stifled his laughter.

The dark haired beauty's eyes narrowed accusingly. "It's not funny; and yes you did turn me into a star in vampire circles."

Naruto got his chuckles under control and sat down at the desk in his room. "Alright, please do fill me in on the details. I'm curious as to what happened."

Selene pulled up a chair and sat down in it. She said, "After Kraven fled I went out to face you alone. Everyone else was too frightened to do so. As a result, the Vampire Elders are considering me a candidate for the new Regency spot and all those sycophantic aristocrats among the vampires want to be best friends with me. On top of that I have poor Erika clinging to me like a lifeline because her entire image of Kraven has been shattered and she sees me as her saviour now."

Naruto rubbed his chin, "Hmmm….though personally I blame the fact that your bravery caused your elevation in status I can't deny I inadvertently caused some of this. I do understand not wanting to deal with aristocracy or politics though. At least on a battlefield people are openly trying to kill you. With politicians they are plotting behind your back and you end up with the Sword of Damocles hanging over your head every step of the way. I'm sorry to hear about that."

At this a unanimous shout of "hear, hear" came from those that had been a kage. Whilst paperwork was the bane of a kage, the most dangerous part of the job was the fact that these powerful men who were trained in the ways of combat had to quickly adjust to a different battlefield. Politicians despite the fact that they are rarely trained in the combat arts were frequently more dangerous than a straight up enemy due to them being used to scheming over periods of time to get what they wish. Using bluffs and incremental steps that seem unconnected but are in actuality part of a larger scheme. It was tiring.

Selene looked at Naruto for a moment and said, "You speak from experience."

Naruto nodded. 'She's very perceptive. It's just as I'd hoped.' "I was in that position a couple of times when I was a general."

The Death Dealer was curious now. "You were a general?"

The kitsune answered, "Long ago. When they tried to draw me into politics in feudal Japan I simply vanished for a few years and reappeared under a different alias. It's an effective tactic because humans don't live that long but such an option wouldn't work with a bunch of immortals."

Selene growled, "That seems a bit cowardly."

Naruto raised an eyebrow. "Call it what you like; it is effective as I said. Sometimes we have to bite the bullet and -oh dear."

A grenade crashed in through the window and detonated within a second. Selene was too shocked to react in time but Naruto wasn't. Selene was dazed by the explosion but Naruto shielded her with his body. She came around briefly and saw she was wrapped in the tails of a huge fox. She felt strangely warm and safe. The fox said, "Do not worry Selene, I will protect you with my life if need be." After that she passed out.

….

"At least this brat is considerate of the women around him." growled out Tsunade whilst glaring at a whistling sage who was receiving glares from many of the women in the room.

Marcel Feist disassembled and put away his grenade launcher. He was a human mercenary and the odd man that hired him had paid extremely handsomely to kill (actually overkill) the man named Naruto Corvinus. Marcel knew the whole incident would be blamed on some sort or terrorist attack because the collateral damage that killed others. Being of Austrian decent Marcel figured he could lay low for a few weeks in case the Hungarian borders were closed. He regularly travelled Europe a businessman so it would be simple enough to blend into the crowds. What Marcel Feist didn't realize was he'd just made an enemy of epic proportions….a kitsune name Uzumaki Naruto that was once known as the Blood Red Tide because of the carnage he caused in battle when he was a provincial general in Japan centuries ago….

….

Ohnoki had an eyebrow raised. Titles were not given willy nilly, His being the fence-sitter or Ohnoki of the twin scales, was given to him as he would weigh up all of the options carefully before deciding. Thus he knew that there was a history behind that title and from the sounds of it, it was probably on a similar style as the boys father, the yellow flash.

Budapest, Millennium Underground Railway

Selene awoke feeling extremely tired and in pain. She had an IV in each arm with blood feeding her. She didn't know where she was but she looked over and saw Naruto sitting there with his red eyes glowing. Naruto seemed to be in some kind of meditative state. He looked over at her in concern and said, "You're safe underground and I've procured a lot of blood to help you regenerate Selene. You weren't injured by the fire or the shrapnel but you are probably a walking bruise from the impact of the shock-wave. I'll keep watch over you so don't worry."

"Where are we?" asked Selene tiredly. She hurt all over.

"Were in an old storage room near the M1 Metro Line near the Budapest City Park end of it." said Naruto. "It's daylight out so you'll need to wait until sundown to return to Ördögház Mansion. Just rest for now. You are regenerating rapidly so you must have several centuries under your belt to be that powerful."

"I'm six hundred and thirty." said Selene.

Naruto nodded and said in a soothing voice, "Sleep Selene; I'll be here when you wake up." Selene soon drifted off to sleep again as Naruto watched over her.

….

Ördögház Mansion

Lady Amelia was privately in a panic though to everyone else she seemed calm and collected. She's sent Selene on a mission to contact Naruto Corvinus and now Viktor's beloved daughter was missing. Their connections in the National Bureau of Investigation as well as regular police reports showed there were no signs of any bodies in the room Naruto Corvinus was registered to be in which was a relief. Many of the coven's aristocrats were very up in arms about where 'The Princess' was but Amelia kept them in line with a simple glare. There was also the question of the Regency but finding Selene was much more important in Amelia's eyes. Though Amelia didn't openly fear Victor per Se, his temper would be monumental if his precious 'child' had been killed. The vampires would start scouting tonight once the accursed sun fell from the sky….if the lycans were behind it then no god could save them from Amelia's wrath. Just as importantly though the vampires might gain a powerful ally in Naruto….

….

The Frigate Sancta Helena

Alexander Corvinus was very worried. His estranged son Naruto had been the target of an assassination attempt and the Leader of the Cleaners didn't know who or why. All he knew was how; a grenade launcher fired from a nearby rooftop. Naruto had been shadowed at range by Alexander's people and it seemed that Naruto had made contact with both the vampires and the lycans so anyone could have targeted Naruto in theory. A vampiress had been in Naruto's room before the explosion but the Cleaners found absolutely no evidence of either of their bodies there. The Jaguar that the vampiress drove was still parked where it had been last night and Samuel had already taken action to observe the vehicle in case she (and hopefully Naruto) returned for it tonight.

Samuel came in to report to his commander. "We ran the history on that Jaguar sir. It's registered to a non-profit organization attached to the Hungarian Red Cross." Then he added sardonically, "Appropriately that company specializes in blood drives. They've been around for decades and are definitely backed by the vampires on a corporate level. There's really not much else to tell other than it is a nice car and very well maintained."

Alexander nodded. "That was kind of expected Samuel. The vampires always cover their tracks extensively you know. Wheels within wheels…."

….

Millennium Underground Railway

'Wheels within wheels….' thought Naruto as he unintentionally mirrored his Father's thoughts. 'The vampires could be responsible, the lycans could be responsible. No doubt if asked they will point the finger at each other. It could be one side trying to frame the other. It could be Kraven as no doubt the coward has connections. It could be someone else. It was stupid of me to use my real name upon reflection. I haven't been outside Japan since the late 1800's so I didn't even think to use an alias on my passport because no one would know me. Hell, the last time I was here in Hungary it was under the rule of the Hapsburg's and part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. You'd think for all the years of experience I have that I wouldn't have made such a rookie mistake. I guess I've grown complacent over the centuries. Shame on me.' He looked over at the sleeping Selene. "At least Selene is recovering nicely. Looks like I need to change her IV's again….'

….

Lycan Den

Lucien got the news this morning about Naruto Corvinus's room being destroyed. He had no idea who had done it but Lucien wanted to make damn sure that the lycans weren't held responsible. He hoped to contact Naruto to offer him aid if needed. Lucien knew that Naruto wouldn't have been killed by such an attempt but really didn't have the connections to track down whoever did it. The easiest thing would be to point the finger at the vampires or even Kraven but Lucien didn't have a shred of proof and that Naruto wasn't the sort of person he could afford to cross. He'd told his people to lay low and stay out of trouble for now but frankly it just wasn't in the lycan's nature to do so. At any rate; they'd all been informed of Naruto's appearance and to not incur his wrath. It was the best Lucien could do for now….

….

Millennium Underground Railway

Selene awoke feeling healed but also feeling ravenous. Naruto was in the same sitting position he'd been in before (though his eyes were blue) and he said, "I was wondering when you'd wake up. He gently removed her IV's and said as he looked into her eyes, "I can tell you're starving. You've been out for eighteen hours. You don't have to hide it."

Selene's eyes turned bright blue and her canines elongated in an instant. Naruto simply handed her a blood bag and a straw. "I don't know how hemovores eat so I grabbed a few straws after I robbed the local blood bank. I never imagined I'd be using my skills rob the Red Cross. It's rather embarrassing."

Selene gouged a hole in the blood bag before sticking a straw in and drinking it greedily. She said between sips, "This is fine." Three bags later her appetite was sated and she smiled softly. "Thank you for taking care of me Naruto. I saw the grenade but I couldn't react in time."

Naruto admired Selene for a moment and said, "You should smile more often. It really lights up your whole face."

Selene felt herself blushing slightly, 'What is with this man? How does he make me feel this way?' Then she blinked. "You know, before I passed out I saw a giant taking fox that said he'd protect me….I know that was you Naruto."

"How can you be so certain?" asked Naruto. "You were in a daze when I carried you out of the wreckage. You could have been imagining things."

"He had your red eyes Naruto. There is no mistake." After fidgeting a minute Selene said, "Please tell me what you are. You feel like a vampire or a lycan but you're not."

Naruto wanted to growl. The pleading look in Selene's eyes was all it took for him to cave in. 'Gods I'm becoming a softie in my old age. This girl….' "I'm a kitsune Selene. I'm not telling you this lightly."

Selene looked confused. "I've never even heard of a kitsune before Naruto."

The blonde smiled and said, "In Japanese folklore Kitsune are fox spirits or demons that can change shape and are very playful. Some are considered good and others evil. My Mother was a full blooded kitsune. My Father….was something else."

"So are you a good or evil kitsune? And where do kitsune come from? You call yourself Corvinus. That is quite a coincidence you know." said Selene wondering how she could get more details. She was rather fascinated with the idea.

Naruto smiled showing his elongated canines. "Whether I'm good or evil all depends on your point of view….as for where Kitsune come from I honestly don't know. My Mother vanished when I was a very young boy so I never found out. She was the only other kitsune I've ever known on a personal level."

Kushina was upset at this. These so called kitsune just left a child out in the cold on their own. None of them even had the decency to look after the boy. No she was not happy at all about this. She had to wonder though what happened to her other self as she knew for a fact that she would never leave her child alone by choice. Something must have happened to her alternate for this to happen.

"And your Father? Did he know anything?" asked Selene.

"My Father was wracked with grief at my Mother's death and abandoned me." said Naruto. "I doubt he knows anything either."

"Your Father is alive then?" asked the dark haired beauty. "Then he's one of the Corvinus brothers that sired us all?"

Naruto appeared in front of Selene and placed a feather light kiss upon her forehead. "Enough questions Selene; I've already told you far more about myself than I have anyone in centuries. We need to get you safely home to Ördögház. I'm sure the other vampires are missing their favourite celebrity." he said with a smile.

'He's intentionally being obnoxious to distract me. I have to study these kitsune.' thought Selene to herself. "Why don't you come back to Ördögház with me? Lady Amelia would certainly be in your debt for saving my life. I'm sure you would be welcomed there."

"That could be problematical as the lycans would likely consider me their enemy then." said Naruto. "I don't want that."

Selene's eyes flashed. "The lycans are probably the ones who tried to kill you by blowing us up Naruto!" she said passionately. "Come back to Ördögház with me where it's safe."

Naruto shook his head. "There isn't a shred of proof behind that claim Selene. You are a very intelligent woman. Think outside the box. I know you hate lycans-"

"They murdered my family." said Selene coldly. "If it wasn't for Viktor I would have died too. The vampires saved me from those savages."

Taking a placating tone Naruto said, "I'm sorry for your loss Selene. I truly am. But you have to take a step back from your point of view. As an outsider I could be targeted by the lycans; the vampires or another group entirely unconnected with either party that hates me personally for something I did centuries ago. You must realize there are forces at work outside the private little war the vampire and lycans have been waging for centuries."

"The boy is correct" grunted Ohnoki in a tone that made it sound as if it was painful for the man to agree with the boy. The other kage were also nodding in agreement. The others that were in the boys graduating class were still in a form of shock at the boy being this intelligent and mature. It was so different from the usual happy and care free attitude that they were used to that it was almost terrifying for them to see.

Selene drummed her fingers and narrowed her eyes. "I still say you'd be safer at Ördögház. Lady Amelia could-"

Naruto cut her off. "How am I to know this Lady Amelia didn't stage the attack herself to frame the lycans and gain my trust?"

"That's preposterous!" stated Selene hotly. "So is the idea of some enemies from the feudal era of Japan Naruto! They were humans and died of centuries ago!"

Naruto's eyes turned red though there was no killing intent. He said in a chilling voice, "Look up the Shadow General called the Blood Red Tide that won the Battle of Sekigahara and later the Siege of Osaka*② for Tokugawa Ieyasu that was the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate of Japan and the atrocities that were committed! Then tell me no one's families would hold a grudge for hundreds of years."

Selene was stunned into silence as Naruto's eyes faded from an angry red back to a sad blue. "I'm sorry Selene; I didn't mean to get angry. There are other evils in this world than the lycans though; you need to realize this."

The vampiress felt her heart ache at the genuine sadness in Naruto's voice. "I'm sorry Naruto; I shouldn't have gotten angry either. I guess logically I have no proof the lycans were behind the attack."

Naruto smiled softly and took Selene's hands in his and said, "Let's get you back to Ördögház where you can finish convalescing Selene. I know you aren't at one hundred percent. I care for your safety."

Selene squeezed his warm hands and asked, "But what about you Naruto? At least you would be safe at Ördögház." 'With me.' "I really think Lady Amelia could help."

Naruto thought to himself, 'Such sweet temptation….' "I can't Selene….I have some digging to do about who pulled this stunt and tried to kill us." After seeing her face fall slightly Naruto said, "Why don't we exchange phone numbers so we can continue to see each other Selene?" There was a touch of desperation in his voice.

Selene's brown eyes lit up a bit and she got out her cell phone. Seeing that it was intact she turned it on and said smiling softly, "Give me your cell phone number Naruto and I'll give you mine."

….

Ördögház Mansion

Selene pulled up in her Jaguar at the Mansion and brushed her many admirers aside. Erika came up concerned about Selene's dishevelled appearance (she had been in an explosion) but the Death Dealer assured her she would be fine and that she needed to see Lady Amelia as soon as possible. Before long the tired Death Dealer was in the Elder's presence alone. Amelia said, "There was a great concern for your safety Selene. I for one am very pleased that you have returned. Tell me what happened."

Selene gave Lady Amelia her report about the explosion and that Naruto had met up with a lycan looking for Kraven. For some reason she couldn't bring herself to betray Naruto's trust and reveal he was a kitsune though she did tell Amelia he was some sort of immortal and lived in feudal Japan. Selene mention the battles Naruto mentioned and said she intended to research it.

"So you are in touch with Naruto Corvinus." said Amelia after Selene explained they'd exchanged phone numbers. "You've done well; very well. Even if he isn't our ally against the lycan threat now he might become one with time and patience. Do you have any idea why Naruto came after Kraven personally? He just appeared out of nowhere."

Selene nodded. "Naruto told me to give you this message Lady Amelia. Kraven sought to set up a Far East Coven in Japan. I do not know if you were aware of this at all. Naruto doesn't want the vampires or lycans to spread their conflict to Japan. He said he would hunt us all to extinction if we didn't pull out there."

Amelia raised a delicate eyebrow. "That is quite a claim he made Selene. You are a Death Dealer; do you believe he has any real power to back that claim up?"

Selene nodded slowly. "Naruto Corvinus has power in spades Lady Amelia. Had he attacked full force back when Kraven fled like a coward then I believe he could have wiped the entire Coven here at Ördögház. I am not exaggerating. I mean no disrespect but he is at least equal to one of you Elders."

Lady Amelia nodded. 'Viktor's daughter is smitten with this man but she's also totally committed to the vampire cause. She's been absolutely truthful; I have no doubt about that. Perhaps this Naruto Corvinus could be brought to our side through her….' "Stay in touch with Naruto Corvinus and inform he has the full support of the vampires. I will look into this Far East Coven as I have no knowledge of it. I've been ruling from New York for a long so who knows what tangled web Kraven strung about himself….Before I dismiss you to get fixed up; one last thing Selene…."

"Yes Lady Amelia?" asked Selene.

Amelia said with a cool smile of approval, "I know it is rare for you to even be interested in a man Selene but I can tell from your descriptions that there is a mutual attraction there. I encourage you to pursue this relationship. I believe that you not only could find happiness but also we as vampires would gain a powerful ally. If you aren't too wrapped up in hunting lycans you might spend some time with him. Having a mate definitely has its perks. I've had several over the centuries."

Selene blushed slightly and said "I'll take your words under advisement Lady Amelia."

After Selene departed to be tended to by the concerned Erika; Amelia sat back in her chair as she sipped on a wine glass of blood. 'So Kraven went behind the backs of the Elders to set up his own power-base. I suppose that I shouldn't be surprised but I never felt Kraven had the initiative or the intelligence to do so. I underestimated him. No doubt he still has many contacts in the Coven that will need to be dealt with. Delivering Kraven to this Naruto would certainly be beneficial to getting Naruto Corvinus to join our cause. It seems I have much to do. I was going to awaken Marcus to continue The Chain but as unstable as things are it seems unwise at this juncture. I will consult with the Vampire Council before making that decision.

….Selene….you could become far more important than you think although I wonder what Viktor's reaction will be….'

The lights switched on and they started to make their way out towards the dining hall so that they could go over what they had just seen. The revelations about Naruto's history, about the vampires and the lycans. What had originally appeared to be simple was rapidly becoming a tangled mess. The Kage though were appreciative of the boy and his more mature and serious demeanour. Now all they had to do was await the next chapter that would be happening the next day.